NSE President tasks professionals on strengthening TVET culture in formal education

By Stephen Adeleye

The President Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Engr. Babagana Mohammed, has urged professionals to focus more attention on promoting the culture of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) by encouraging mentorship, coaching and entrepreneurship in people of school age.

Mohammed made the call at the graduation ceremony of the Young Entrepreneurs' Club (YECLUB) pilot Public School Co-Corricular TVET Project Abuja, sponsored by a non-governmental organisation (NGO), Ladi Memorial Foundation (LMF) through its Chateko Vocational Institute (CVI).

The NSE President, who was the Chairman of the occasion, commended the LMF for focusing on technical vocational education training and the NABTEB skills certification to assist the students.

He stressed the need for increased attention to coaching, mentorship by professionals, emphasising that TVET remained the key to solving many challenges facing the country as well as ensuring economic growth.

The NSE President applauded the  initiative by the foundation and donated the sum of N1 million to support the co-curricular TVET project; and promised to increase his support for the youth especially those of school age.

Also speaking, the Director General, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Dr Mansur Liman, who was also one of the awardees commended the LMF for the initiative and pledged his support for the foundation.

On her parts, the Registrar and Chief Executive of the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), Prof. Ifeoma Isiugo-Abanihe, restated commitment of the board to excellence in its core mandate of providing qualified entrepreneurial skills for national development.

The Registrar commended the foundation for its commitment to the Co-curricullar TVET project and promised to sponsored some students to write NABTEB examination.

Earlier, the Founder and Executive Director of LMF, Mrs Rosemary Osikoya, said the foundation had trained over 600 youths on skill acquisition, most of whom were vulnerable in the society within the past five years.

According to her, the NGO is aimed at empowering youth and women to be self-reliant and provide them with a platform to acquire life-changing carrier coaching and mentoring.

“From the past five years, the NGO has been in existence, we have been rendering vocational services to both in and out-of-school students at various levels.

“We have so far trained about 600 youth, most of them vulnerable in the society.  We are helping them to access livelihood equipment and to give them hope,” she said.

Osikoya explained that 54 students in public school and dropouts were enrolled for the pilot public school co~curricular TVET Project, which was flagged off on July 8, 2021; while the club meetings commenced on July 26, 2021. 

She said the trade skills taught were basic garment making for men, women and children; bag making, catering craft Practice: baking and confectionaries, and food preparation.

She added that the foundation provided the training free including consumables, equipment, learning tools, textbooks among others, and supported by generous individuals and organizations, which was acknowledged by the Schools' TVET Champions 2021 Awards.

Osikoya stressed that most of those trained by the NGO were school drop-outs but were reintroduced to school, adding that, their self-esteem had increased.

“For this programme, we registered 54 people who went through our training for a period of six months. I am happy to announce to you that we are graduating 32 youths today.

“Skill helps to build and develop their personal capacity, which is the whole idea of the training.

''A total of 35 candidates were enrolled for NABTEB modular trade exams December 2021 in both JSS/GSS Pyakasa, Abuja, and out of school youths/women in Lokoja. 

''The NABTEB modular trade Exams that were taken include: Baking and confectionaries, Food preparation, Pattern drafting, and Garment construction & finishing,'' she said.

The executive director described the programme as a huge success considering the number of youths that it had helped to take off the street.

She, therefore urged educational institutions at various levels to adopt modules in skills acquisition, so as to equip students with skills that move them away from unemployment after school.

Our Correspondent reports that other partners' groups and individuals at the event also pledged their various commitments to support the co-curricullar TVET project.

The Vice Chairman LMF Board of Trustees, Engr. Kashim Ali, described the project as turning point, and noble and promising beginning for the young beneficiaries saying it would mark a positive turn in their journey in life.

Ali, who was a former COREN President, said the LMF remained committed to contributing positively to national development through quality human capacity development in the strategic areas of focus.

According to him, LMF is focusing on functional, practical skills for survival, livelihood improvements, entrepreneurship and employment which remains the bedrock of every national productivity, economic growth and personal fulfilment. 

''Today’s event which brings us together presents a humble initiative to encourage TVET culture and strengthen integration of TVET certification in the formal education.

''It is a commendable feat bringing together various categories of stakeholders, forges linkages of cooperation and presents a new platform for focused partnership collaboration, mentorship and coaching everyone can buy into'', he said.

Ali expressed hope that the LMF Young Entrepreneurs’ Club (YEClub) Project experience and lessons learnt shared both today and afterwards would provide beneficial insight to education policy makers, administrators and other stakeholders.

Mr Yusuf Alli, the Managing Editor, Northern Operations of The Nation Newspaper, a Facilitator of the programme, commended the founder for the initiative, adding that, it would divert the attention of youths from societal ills.

“I came here to give my own support as a facilitator but when I saw the initiative, I was encouraged.”

Our Correspondent reports that the creativity, innovation and skills' mastery demonstrated by students were judged by VIPs at the event, and the best talents were rewarded with various prizes depending on their skills' categories.

The winners of the Garment making craft  Student-preneurs category: First position- Favour Ifeanyi Chisom SS2 (female); Second position- Israeli Oloyede SS3 (male); and Third position & most improved student~preneur, Abubakar Akilu Hassan SS1 (male) of GSS Pyakasa, all got a Sewing machine each.

The winners of the Catering craft prizes in the studentpreneurs category: First position- Peace Daniel JSS3; Second position- Precious Noah Yahaya SS3; and Third position- Rachael Tojuola SS2, all female students of GSS Pyakasa.

The first (Peace Daniel), second (Precious Yahaya) and third (Rachael Tojuola) positions, received Gas cooker; Kenwood cake mixer;  and a complete set of cooking pots respectively.

Some of the graduands, who spoke with our Correspondent, thanked the NGO and its partners for the privilege, and promised to make good use of the opportunity.

Our Correspondent reports that the LMF Special partnership recognition Award of Schools TVET Champions 2021 were presented to persons who had made various contributions in cash and kind to support the project.

End

Kogi Govt announces commencement of 2nd wave Registration of Rapid Response Register

By Stephen Adeleye

The second wave of registration for Registration of Rapid Response Register (RRR), has commenced in Kogi state on Sunday December 19, 2021 and would last for two weeks. 

A statement signed by Kogi State Commissioner for Finance,  Budget and Economic Planning, Hon. Asiwaju Asiru Idris, and made available to journalist on Sunday in Lokoja, said the online registration blast hit the airwave on Saturday midnight. 

The Commissioner said the codes for individual urban and semi-urban wards and communities approved by the National Social Safety-Nets Coordinating Office (NASSCO) and the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian, Disaster Management and Social Development, has been distributed to respective Local Government State Operations Coordinating Unit (SOCU) Desk officers and CDOs for distribution and sensitization. 

''The USSDcode of *969*community code# is meant for each community, ward and local government selected. The registration process is through dual means of SMS and Call using the codes.

''Kogites are advised to quickly obtain the respective community codes of their residence from their Local Government SOCU Desk officers and CDOs for immediate registration through MTN, Airtel, and Etisalat network providers'', he said.

Idris added noted a successful applicant would be expected to obtain an ID immediately after registration and ensure the ID is kept safe for further validation and documentation subsequently for final payment of Covid-19 Cash Transfer on monthly basis. 

''The Kogi State Government is urging Kogites to log on with their respective community codes to ensure massive registration to maximize the benefits of opportunity of President Muhammadu Buhari and Governor Yahaya Bello's  administration'', he said. 

He recalled that the World Bank in collaboration with the Federal Government deployed a satellite imagery that captured some urban and semi-urban wards and communities early this for RRR implementation to mitigate the negative impact of Covid-19 pandemic on people's income which has made life more difficult.

This, he said was in a bid to ease the hardship that this shock response strategy was employed to rapidly captured people for cash transfer benefits.

End

Ex-footballers hold UNIBADAN to a still with 7th Reunion celebrations

 

... Rewards Edith Agoye, Patrick Ngwaogu, Abiodun Salami Others

The community of the Premier University in the country, University of Ibadan was agog at the weekend when the Ex-Footballers of the citadel of learning held their 7th World Reunion.

The event started with a visit to the Vice Chancellor of the institution Professor Kayode Adebowale in his office. 

However, the University's Director of Public Communications Oladejo Olatunji was on ground to receive the Ex-Footballers many of who represented the University and country in various competitions. The University appreciated the ex-students for their efforts in ensuring that they reunite after years of graduation, while appreciating the efforts in their steps towards their almamater. 

Earlier, the President of the Ex-University of Ibadan Footballers Association Edwin Ebvie had narrated the concept of the Association to the Vice-Chancellor's representative, and appreciated them for giving them an enabling environment to reunite, moreover  giving out the highly revered Trenchard Hall to the Association for their get together. 

The Ex-Footballers later took to the pitch of the Obafemi Awolowo Students pitch in the University to play a tournament between Team Mutiu Adepoju and Team Rotimi Alli, which ended in penalty shootouts. 

When a winner could not emerge, it was decided that the trophy be presented to Coach Abiodun Salami, the outgoing Director of Sports in the University who is retiring from the University after attaining the mandatory years in service. 

The occasion was climax with a reunion dinner held at the Trenchard Hall of the University, various awards were given to some members of the Association among whom are two former Internationals, 3SC Head Coach Edith Olumide Agoye and Dr Abiodun Salami outgoing University of Ibadan Director of Sports, Patrick Ngwaogu former Abia Warriors FC Sporting Director, Prof Oluwasegun Adekunle, Chairman  Ex-University of Ibadan Footballers Association Board of Trustees, the President of Association Edwin Evbie. Others are Tunde Ojo (Answer), Olawale Taoheed Raji.

Osun Sports Commissioner, Oliseh to grace FUBF Day

 

Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Osun State Honourable Yemi Lawal is among the top personalities that will be guests at the third edition of Family United By Football (FUBF Day) in Osogbo on Sunday, as Barrister Churchill Oliseh, President of Nationwide League One (NLO) club, FC Ebedei will deliver a lecture.

FUBF is a vibrant sports group on social media platform WhatsApp and has the key stakeholders of sports in Osun State and  Nigeria as members.  

The group's admin, Tunde Shamsudeen informed:  "This year's FUBF Day will be one not to forget in a hurry as a few very important personalities(VIPs) who have made their mark in sports will grace the event and also share their success stories.

"One of such persons is Honourable Yemi Lawal. The 'Working Progress' is a square peg in a square hole. In less than two years he has been able to rejuvenate sports in the state. The successes recorded at the Osun State Sports Festival is still fresh in our memories.

"Another is our guest speakers Barrister Churchill Oliseh. A result-oriented individual who has written his name on a platter of gold when it comes to football at the grassroot.

"It's on record that since 1995, there is no medal Nigeria won in football that you won't see a product of FC Ebedei. Churchill Oliseh will deliver a lecture titled: 'Football As A Possible Investments, Principles And Challenges'."

"Also the Special Adviser to Governor Oyetola on Youths and Sports, Aremo Adegboyega Adelabu, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Osun State on Sports Development, Vincent Akinbami are guest of the occasion.

"Not forgetting the Osun Sports Council General Manager, Rotimi Dunmoye, President Hammola Int'l FC, Muideen Odeyemi and President HMK, Yemi Adesiyan they too will grace the event." 

Recall Churchill, the elder brother of former Super Eagles coach and the captain is credited with discovering Nigerian internationals like Obafemi Martins, Paul Onuachu (Genk, Belgium), Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England) among others via his platform FC Ebedei.

2023: CHRCR Tasks Political Parties, CSOs On Effective Anti-corruption Agenda

 

By Stephen Adeleye

A Civil Society Organization (CSO), Conscience for Human Rights and Conflict Resolution (CHRCR), has urged political parties to develop specific agenda in their manifestos to promote Anti-corruption and Accountability issues towards the 2023 Elections. 

The Executive Director of CHRCR, Idris Miliki Abdul, made the call on Thursday in Lokoja, at a one-day meeting with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Partners on ''Prioritising Anti-Corruption and Accountability Issues During the Upcoming 2023 Elections At State Level''

The meeting which was organised by CHRCR in partnership with Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), was aimed at reducing corruption in Nigeria by educating and mobilising citizens groups and galvanising support for anti corruption among political parties.

Miliki stressed the need for political parties, frontline candidates and critical interest groups and networks involved in the 2023 electoral processes to have specific agenda for anti-corruption and accountability crusade.

He also advised political parties to have a deliberate policies that would ensure gender inclusion in politics.

He reiterated the commitment of the organisation to ensure institutionalisation of anti-corruption, transparency and accountability in Nigeria by ensuring necessary political commitment to deepen and spread anti-corruption, transparency and accountability.

He urged the CSOs, citizens to demand reforms towards improving electoral accountability as well as call for more participation of vulnerable and marginalised groups like women, youths and persons living with disabilities.

''Frontline political parties and candidates in target states must prioritise anti-corruption, accountability and inclusion reforms and commitments in their manifestos and political campaign promises through officially commitments during interactive sessions, town hall meetings and other interface with voting groups.

''More civil society groups and citizens must demand reforms to improve electoral accountability, affirmative action. 

''We must use every platform we have to promote anti-corruption, transparency and accountability crusade. We must not relent in our efforts to ensure good governance and accountability.

''We must monitor the effectiveness of upholding affirmative action and social inclusion in the political parties.

''Demand for gender and social inclusion in the electoral and constitutional reform process at the state level, affirmative action and social inclusion on the platform of candidates and political parties including appointive positions, demand for the implementation of the existing laws,'' he said.

He appealed to the media to be courageous, investigate and make pronouncement with accurate reportage without fear or favour towards curbing corruption and enshrine accountability in the society. 

He urged Gov. Yahaya Bello, to use his power and influence to make sure that three women were elected into Kogi State House Assembly in 2023 elections in continuation of his support for affirmative action in the state. 

He urged Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC) to make public the results of the Local Government election results described the activities of the commission as far from being accountable and laced with corruption.

He added: ''Being unable to produce the results of the LG election after almost one year is a fraudulent and corrupt election, the citizens of the state must rise up and demand for their rights''.

Miliki appreciated the continued support of Mac-Arthur Foundation, CISLAC, the media in Kogi State, civil society and the goodwill we enjoyed among the general public in the State, and asked for more continuous support and collaboration. 

End

NPFL22: Pillar of Sports drum support for Kwara Utd ahead of new season, commends Gov. AbdulRazaq

The new Kwara Pillar of Sports, Prince Oladimeji Thompson, has called on soccer fans and enthusiasts in the state to get behind their darling team, Kwara United FC when they play host to Dakkada FC on Sunday and throughout the season.

Thompson made the call in a statement he personally signed on Friday in Ilorin, ahead of the commencement of the 2021/2022 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season. 

The Kwara Pillar of Sports, who had previously managed the team urged football lovers to always get behind the team whenever they are playing, adding their support and chanting can turn around their performance on the pitch.

"I want us to know that everyday is not Christmas, so the team will not perform same way in every of their matches.

"On a day they are not performing well is when they need all of us the most to sing for them to raise their play.

"Abusing them when the day is already tough will only add salt to injury which we don't want.

"So, I am using this my statement to appeal to all soccer enthusiasts in the state to always stay solidly behind the team at all times" Thompson said.

Thompson in the statement, also commended the State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his swift response to the banning of the Kwara Stadium Complex from hosting matches in the new season.

He said the Governor showed his leadership qualities by ensuring the stadium gets a face-lift within the shortest period of time to get League Management Company's (LMC), provisional approval to host Kwara United’s home games.

Thompson also commended the Executive Chairman of Kwara State Sports Commission, Malam Bola Mogaji, the FA Chairman, Malam Idris Musa and the management of Kwara United for working hard to get the stadium ready for the new season.

Bar. Paul Edeh, Masai Ujiri, Shina Phillips to receive 2021 Sportivation Media Awards

All is set for the 2021 edition of Sportivation Media Awards which is billed to hold in Nigeria's entertainment and showbiz capital, Lagos, on Saturday, December 18, 2021.

Organised by Sportivation Media, a sports media, events and broadcast outfit, the award recognises and celebrates sports personalities in Nigeria and beyond for their spectacular and exceptional performance in chosen sporting endeavour and contributions to the sport.

The CEO of Sportivation Media International, Mr. Taiwo Ibrahim leads the young and enterprising company with a team of enthusiastic and creative sports journalists, broadcasters, and professionals.

This year's edition will honour six remarkable individuals who have left footnotes in the sporting world with different award categories: Sports Personality of the Year Award, Diaspora Award, Administrator of the Year Award, Special Recognition Award for Innovation, Special Recognition Award for Service to Women Football, Special Recognition Award for Contribution to Sports and Youth Development.

Masai Ujiri, the first African-born general manager of a professional sports team in America (Denver Nuggets, NBA, 2013) and first president of an NBA Team (Toronto Raports) to be born by African parents, will be presented with the Sports Personality of the Year.

Also to be awarded is Barrister Paul Edeh, the President of Ratels Sports Development Foundation, a foundation that has used sports in empowering the girl-child over the years. The RSDF is also the sole sponsor of the biggest Women Football Pre-season Championship in the whole of Africa (The Flying Officers Cup). 

Mr Shina Philips, is the Chairman of Matchmakers Consult Group, an organisation that has been hosting the biggest Sports Award in Nigeria (The Pitch Awards) since 2013. 

 Mr Marcellinus Anyanwu, a former Arsenal Soccer School Coach in Dubai, He has also helped Nigerian players with scholarship opportunities abroad. 

Mr Chika Valentine, a Nigerian Coach based in India and highly recommended for his contribution to football in the east Asian nation. 

Samuel Dosunmu, is being rewarded for his uprightness and great support to the brand (Sportivation Media). 

Speaking on the 2021 award, the Organiser, Taiwo Ibrahim said: "the Sportivation Media Awards is aimed at rewarding excellence in the sports sector, we have diligently selected the recipients based on their contributions to youth development through sports.

"The choice of Masai Ujiri was easy because of his feat in basketball in Nigeria and Africa where he is currently on a mission to build 100 basketball courts across the continent through his 'Giants of Africa' NGO.

"Barrister Paul Edeh, has also contributed a lot to the development of women football in Nigeria; a staunch supporter of the girl child.

"Mr Shina Philips has continued to defy the odds by organising the Nigerian Ptich Awards since 2013.

"Mr Marcellinus Anyanwu, a former Arsenal Soccer School Coach in Dubai, has been flying Nigeria's flag very high in the oil rich country; he has also helped Nigerian players with scholarship opportunities.

"Mr Chika Valentine, a Nigerian coach based in India, is highly commended for his contributions to football in the east Asian nation and also gives opportunities to Nigerian players to study and play football in the country."

The prestigious event will hold at the SWAN hall, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos on Saturday, the 18th of December 2021.

Ex University of Ibadan Footballers Storm Ibadan For 7th World Reunion

The Premier University in country, the University of Ibadan will on Saturday,  18th day of December, 2021, play host to the Ex-Footballers of the citadel of learning at the 7th Annual Reunion of the Association. 

In a statement signed by the Association's Public Relations Officer, Henry Duru, he said that all is now set for the annual Reunion of the  Association, which will among other things include a Football tournament among the ex-players in the morning at the University of Ibadan New stadium. There will also be  a Get-together Dinner Party in the evening at the Trenchard Hall of the University. 

The image maker further stated that the Vice-Chancellor of the Premier University Professor Kayode Adebowale will perform the ceremonial kick off of the mini Football tournament. 

He said that the Reunion event will also be used to Honour the retiring Director of Sports of the University, Dr Abiodun Salami, who has been a father figure to most of the Footballers that passed through the institution. Other individuals will also be given awards at the dinner.

Meanwhile, both the Team Manager and Chief Coach of the Shooting Stars Sports Club, Dimeji Lawal and Edith Agoye have  regretted their inability to attend the Réunion program  which they are an integral part. 

The two former Ex-internationals said the Reunion coincides with the Match Day 1 of the 2021 /2022 Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) season. 3SC are already in Gombe to battle Gombe United.  

In a message to the Association, the duo said "In as much as we should have loved to be a part of the Reunion event, we also owe it a duty to pilot the affairs of 3SC in the Premiership in far away Gombe. We are totally with our mates in spirit and also seek for their prayers for 3SC in the new season" they concluded.

NWPL: Barrister Edeh hails Naija Ratels' determined performance

 

Naija Ratels President Barrister Paul Edeh has hailed his side's dogged spirit after playing out a 2-2 draw against Premiership giant Edo Queens at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin on Wednesday evening. 

The 'One Day At A Time' Ladies boss expressed his delight following his side's impressive performance and tasked them to keep improving game by game. 

The Abuja based team fought back from 2-0 down to secure a crucial draw against the Wemimo Mathew tutored side Edo Queens in Benin. 

Bankole Sofiat and Olamide Audugbe, who bagged a goal each in the game, were introduced into the match in the second half by Bankole Olowookeere. 

An elated Barrister Paul Edeh who was present at the Stadium admitted his side started the game on an unimpressive note, but is pleased that they improved on their performance in the second half. 

"Its a good result away from home, especially coming to the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, which the Technical Crew and Players knew it was going to be very difficult, but we were so determined from the onset. ,"

"We had alot of respect for them in the first half. We showed them a lot of respect and that was why we had to come out stronger later in the second half.

"I don't think Edo Queens underrated us, but we upped our game later on, created alot of chances, and deservedly earned a rare draw in Benin.

"We also understand that the league is a journey and hopefully, we learn from every game and improve on our weaknesses. 

Naija Ratels are third on the log of Group A and  will face Adamawa Queens on Matchday three of the NWFL Premiership at the Area 10 Sports Complex.

Kogi Government Restates Commitment To Improving Secondary Education

 

By Stephen Adeleye

Kogi State Government has restated her commitment to programmes that will improve the secondary school education in the state.

The State's Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Wemi Jones, FCIB, gave the assurance while speaking at the ''North Central Advocacy and Sensitization Forum and Stakeholders' Meeting'', on the establishment of the National Senior Secondary School Education Commission (NSSEC) at Makurdi, Benue State.

Jones said that the Administration of Governor Yahaya Bello, was ready to support the ideas of NSSEC in developing secondary education in the state in its bid to lift the education sector to a higher pedestral

According to Jones, to salvage the education system of the country, the secondary school system must not be neglected.

“As you are all aware, basic education, comprising primary and junior secondary education has Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) as its regulatory and intervention body, while the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and National Universities Commission (NUC) regulate colleges of education, polytechnics and universities respectively.

“In the same vein, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) serves as an intervention agency for higher institutions in Nigeria.

"From this analogy, only Senior Secondary Education has no functional regulatory and intervention agency", he said.

He stressed that the secondary school education remained a critical stage where students decide their careers in life, insisting that it could not  be neglected.

The commissioner maintained that it was time for the North Central to rise and take their rightful place in academic excellence.

He commended the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu and the Executive Secretary of NSSEC; describing the initiative as a step in the right direction.

''It is noteworthy that the NSSEC is seeking partnership with critical stakeholders, state governments and traditional institutions to reposition senior secondary schools in Nigeria'', he said.

The commissioner emphasised that NSSEC remained a brilliant move towards repositioning secondary Sshool education in Kogi State.

The commissioner was accompanied by the leadership of the State Technical Education and Teaching Service Commission (STETSCOM), 

End

Heartland players drag club to FIFA over 8 months unpaid salaries

 

Ahead of the 2021/22 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season scheduled to kick off next week, the players of Heartland FC of Owerri, have threatened to take the Naze Millionaire,  to World Football governing body, FIFA over eight months unpaid salaries.

Prior to the end of last NPFL season, the management of the Owerri-based side, promised the team, that all their financial entitlement including, the eight months backlog of salaries will be paid, but according to the players nothing has been paid.

With less than a week to start another season, in the Nigerian topflight, Heartland player who pleaded to be anonymous, claimed that the weak League Management Company (LMC) has failed them hence, they have vowed to take the club to FIFA as they seek for justice.

“It’s sad that we are here talking about our unpaid salaries of about eight months, after we involved the League Management Company who appear to be very weak and toothless.

“Some of us are family men, breadwinners of our families, we don’t have other profession than football, but it’s sad that after you worked tirelessly for a season, you still have to beg and cry for what is rightfully yours.

“We are highly disappointed with the LMC, because by now they ought to have sanctioned Heartland and place an embargo on them, but here we are, Heartland are preparing to start the new season, having completed half of the registration process with the same LMC.

“Since, it appears the League body can not help us, then we have decided to report the case to FIFA and see maybe we will get the desired justice.”

"OrangeElmpics is an initiative using sports to advocate against GBV" - Aderonke Bello

 

In commemoration of the 2021 edition of 16 Days Activism against Gender Based Violence which ends today, FAME Foundation in conjunction with Youth and Sports Development Ministry organized ORANGElympics, a line-up of sporting activities that used sports as a tool to campaign against the menace of Gender Based Violence.

This event provided a platform for women to advocate against GBV and engage men in the fight against Gender-Based Violence.

 Men and women, boys and girls were educated on GBV, its adverse effects, and ways to end GBV in our society. Aside sporting activities, the event involves interactive sessions, social media conversations, school and community outreaches.

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of violence, particularly on women and young girls. 

The campaign starts on November 25, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and concludes on December 10, Human Rights Day.

 This year’s theme emphasizes the end to end every form of Gender-Based Violence.

Speaking on this year’s theme, Honourable Minister for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Sunday Dare, says, it is time  for everyone to rise up and ensure an end to GBV, “I am calling every Nigerian, both young and old to strive towards a gender based violence free society,  (GBV) is a global problem affecting millions of women and girls every year, it threatens lives, undermines families and communities, and impedes the progress of nations. 

Aderonke Ogunleye-Bello, the Executive Director of FAME Foundation, stated that the PLAY it DREAM it Initiative which is currently ongoing, is using sport as a tool to tackle gender issues such as child marriages and lack of education amongst others in the society and also to mentor Internally Displaced Girls.

“The fight against GBV cannot be won without the enlistment of men and boys as allies. ORANGElympics is an initiative using sports to advocate against GBV and also educate and involve both men and women, in the fight towards ending the global menace of GBV”,

“FAME Foundation condemns every form of gender-based violence and calls on both men and women, government, organizations, and CSOs to stand together as a united force and commit towards ending gender-based violence Now”

She also reiterated thar sports has helped actualize the 16 Days of Acitivism theme aimed at ending Gender Based Vioelnce in Sports and other aspects of life.

ORANGElympics  engaged top Nigerian Athletes like Jude Ighalo, Desire Oparanozie, Olumide Oyedeji and others in campaign against GBV which has tripled in number since Covid19 lockdown. 

Also, physical activities like advocacy campaigns to rural communities, schools enlightening people on the dangers of GBV and why it had to end now!

NAGGMDP Appeals to Kogi Government to Employ More Doctors

 

By Stephen Adeleye

 The National Association of Government General Medical and Dental Practitioners (NAGGMDP), Kogi branch, has appealed to State Government to employ more doctors in the state civil service for effective service delivery to residents of the state.

The state's Chairman of NAGGMDP, Dr Osaretin Okaungbowa, made the appeal during the association's ''Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) 2021'', in Lokoja, tagged: ''Kogi State Health System Strengthen: Where Are We?''.

He appealed to state government to employ more doctors, saying the few available ones were already over worked.

The chairman and also enjoined the government to organise leadership training for the medical officers from time to time.

He, however commended Kogi Government on the current improved health care services delivery in the state, and the approval of full COMMESS for all medical doctors under it services.

He added that the development was a positive boost to stabilise the health sector in the state, stressing the need to employ more doctors.

He noted that the association's AGM remained an annual ritual where professionals in the government medical outfits gather to brain storm on the success, challenges and way forward in the practice.

He said that the new leadership of the association in Kogi  had made significant and verifiable strides within one year in office.

He acknowledged the support and encouragement by members and the past chairmen of the association as well as the parent body Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) to the new leadership.

Dr Agbana Emmanuel, a Consultant Public Health Physician, who presented a paper on the conference theme, said Kogi is currently doing well in its health care delivery services.

Emmanuel, who is the Acting Provost College of Health Sciences, Kogi State University, Anyigba, said Kogi presently has four tertiary health facilities; three owned by the state and one by federal government.

He commended the government for embarking on expansion of existing health institutions and upgrading of Specialist Hospitals

Emmanuel stressed that the theme of 2021 Annual General Meeting, was aimed at evaluating Kogi Health System, input, process and output so far.

He disclosed that the state at the moment had 4,216 health workers of which 69 are in the category of medical officers, nine consultants and 2,012 registered nurses.

"Right now Kogi has 838 functional primary health facilities, 54 secondary health facilities and 1,144 private registered health facilities" he said.

Also speaking, Dr Aledare Adekunle, the Executive Secretary, Kogi State Health Insurance Agency (KGSHIA), also presented a paper, titled: ''Kogi State Health Insurance Scheme: The Journey So Far''.

He urged states, local governments, corporate organisations and individuals to key into the scheme in view of its importance in the health needs of the people.

''Health Insurance Scheme helps to reduce user fees, helps to share risk between insured and the insurer.

''It helps to provide financial risk protection to citizens and strengthens the health system as a major driver of Universal Health Coverage," he said.

The executive secretary noted that Health Insurance Scheme was created in Nigeria in 1999 and in Kogi State in 2019, saying it is a feat targeted at providing Social Health Insurance for all Nigerians.

He disclosed that so far his Agency had secured the accreditation of 50 Secondary Health Care facilities and 236 Primary Health Care facilities for service provision.

On his parts, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of Kogi Hospital Management Board, Dr.Zakari Usman, assured that the state government would continue to accord health sector topmost priority.

The CMD thanked NAGGMDP for its efforts to support government in its task to addressing the health needs of the people.

Also speaking, the Kogi State Chairman of Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Dr Simeon Oyiguh, appealed to governments at all levels and Nigerians to be weary of the rising insecurity across the country.

He called for joint efforts in the fight against insecurity that has rendered innocent citizens killed.

Oyiguh commended the state government for its determined efforts to secure the lives of the residents and boost their health needs

The highlight of the occasion was the presentation of Awards to deserving doctors for making their marks in their professional callings.. 

End

Egyptian, Portuguese, French clubs chasing Rivers United's Kayode

 

As of the last count over five foreign clubs and several players' intermediaries have made genuine inquiries about  Rivers United's Ishaq Rafiu Kayode services despite his club's ouster from the CAF Confederation Cup.

Kayode put up several scintillating performances for Rivers United who began from the CAF Champions League before crashing out to the Egyptian side, Al Masry on away goal rule in the CAF Confederation Cup they stepped down to, despite finishing the tie 2-2 on aggregate.

The former Shooting Stars of Ibadan player scored two goals and had two assists also for the Pride of Rivers in their futile continental cup chase but three Egyptian clubs and two clubs from Portugal and France and several other agents have spoken to his representatives with a view to sealing a contract for him.

A source close to the player opined that the three Egyptian top clubs wanted to conclude the deal before Rivers United returned to Nigeria after their game with Al Masry but officials of the former league champions insisted that all transfer formalities must be completed before they can sanction the deal.

Our correspondent has been further told that Rivers United has vowed not to stand in Kayode's way and any potential deal abroad because he has been a thoroughbred professional and putting all he has for the club's cause. 

Kayode joined Rivers United last season after two successful seasons at 3SC. He spent a season at Remo Stars also. He has been one of the team's standout performers. 

His potential deal abroad may no doubt threaten the club's determination to win the league title as the new league season starts on December 17.

NUJ shares spoil with SWAN in a Classic Novelty Match

 

... As Nigeria Info win big

The Sports Writers Association Of Nigerian (SWAN), FCT chapter were on Monday in Abuja forced to a 2-2 draw by

 the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, in a Classic novelty match to herald the 2021 FCT SWAN Week.

In what was his first official outing after winning a reelection into office, NUJ FCT Council chairman, Emmanuel Ogbeche showed his leadership qualities as he led the NUJ to a respectable draw against a much younger SWAN team.

The football match played at the Turf Arena, River Plate Garden Abuja was officiated by SA to the FCT Minister of State  Mustapha Mubdiyu and had the presence of bigwig media practitioners in the nation’s capital.

A comprehensive results of the football matches played on the first day of the SWAN Week shows that  Cool Wazobia FM walked over NTA (3-0), Nigeria Info beat    ITV 5-1, Vision FM walloped Love FM 3-0 while it was TSTV 3-0 Liberty TV.

The last match of the day saw TVC play out a highly entertaining 3-3 draw with Arise Tv but Arise eventually triumphed 3-1 on penalties.

Fixtures for quarter final:

FCT SWAN WEEK 2021 

Quarter final fixtures

7th December 2021

1.Cool Wazobia FM vs Nigeria info FM

2.Vision  FM vs TSTV

3.Arise TV vs  Brila FM

4.TVC vs Correspondent FC

All teams are to be at Turf Arena by 10am