Naija News
Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Wednesday, 31st January, 2024
Good morning Nigeria. Welcome to the Naija News roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Wednesday, 31st January 2024.
1. Tinubu Reacts To Murder Of Ekiti Monarchs, Directs Immediate Rescue Of Kidnapped Pupils
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reacted to the murder of two traditional rulers in Ekiti and the abduction of some pupils around the Eporo-Ekiti area of the State.
Naija News reports that armed men ambushed and killed two traditional rulers, namely the Onimojo of Imojo Ekiti, Oba Olatunde Samuel Olusola, and the Elesun of Esun Ekiti, Oba David Babatunde Ogunsola, as they were returning from a meeting.
Similarly, unknown gunmen on Tuesday whisked away an unspecified number of school children in the State to an undisclosed location.
In a statement through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu expressed grief and condemned the mindless murder in the South West state.
Tinubu also directed the immediate rescue of the pupils and teachers kidnapped in the State on Tuesday, stressing that the security of life and property is the primary responsibility of his administration.
2. Incessant Kidnapping: Step Aside If The Shoes Are Too Big For You – Atiku Slams Tinubu
The Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the 2023 presidential election, Atiku Abubakar, has called on President Bola Tinubu to step aside if he knows the responsibilities of being Nigeria’s president are bigger than his capacity.
Making this call in a post made available on his official X account, the former vice president, who faulted Tinubu for embarking on a private trip to France in the wake of the incessant kidnapping currently ravaging the nation, said that Nigeria does not need another tourist in chief.
Naija News reports that Atiku argued that the country needs a leadership that can confront the pervasive insecurity and collapsing economy.
His comment comes shortly after President Bola Tinubu travelled to France on a private visit.
Naija News had earlier reported that Tinubu last week departed the country to France. In a statement released by presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale, it was revealed that the president will return to the country in the first week of February.
3. CBN Completes Payment Of All Verified FX Claims By Foreign Airlines
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced the completion of payments for all verified claims by airlines, adding an additional $64.44 million to foreign aviation firms.
The disclosure came on Tuesday from Hakama Sidi-Ali, the acting director of corporate communications at the CBN.
According to Sidi-Ali, this latest payment brings the total verified sum disbursed to the aviation sector to a substantial $136.73 million.
According to Sidi-Ali, the CBN governor, Olayemi Cardoso and his team are committed and would stop at nothing to ensure that the verified backlog of payments across all other sectors are cleared and confidence restored in the Nigerian FX market.
She also assured that the CBN is working with stakeholders to ensure liquidity improves within the forex market, thereby reducing pressure on the naira — Nigeria’s local currency.
While expressing optimism that the market would respond positively with the latest injection of over $64 million, she admonished actors in the FX market to guard against speculation as such actions could hurt the naira.
4. ‘It Is Constitutional’ – Ndume Reacts As Tinubu Directs NNPCL To Pay Crude Oil Sales Money To CBN
The Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate, Ali Ndume, has commended President Bola Tinubu over his directive for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to take over the responsibility for crude oil sales from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
Based on President Tinubu’s directive, the NNPCL is now to pay all crude oil proceeds into the Consolidated Revenue Fund domiciled in the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
The Senate Chief Whip said the move by the President is constitutional, and a welcome development that should be supported by everybody.
Naija News earlier reported that the move by the President was to show transparency and accountability as NNPCL over the years has maintained sole control over crude oil sales, and only rendered accounts to the Federal Government.
Under the new arrangement, NNPC will submit receipts for crude oil sales to CBN for vetting and documentation.
Reacting to the development, Ndume, while speaking with reporters in Abuja, commended the move and also asked President Tinubu to sign an Executive Order on Unexplained Wealth to empower anti-corruption and security agencies to go after Nigerians with questionable riches.
The Senator further charged the President to extend his directive to NNPCL to all revenue-generating agencies of the Federal Government.
5. Future Generations Will Not Forgive Us – Akpabio ‘Confronts’ Senators On Pressing Issues
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has challenged his colleagues to work towards addressing pressing concerns faced by Nigerians.
Speaking during the resumed plenary session on the floor of the National Assembly on Tuesday, Akpabio emphasized the significance of senators addressing the issues, stating that both history and future generations will not forgive them if they fail to do so.
Akpabio highlighted that senators have a unique chance to etch their names in the records of history.
The former Governor of Akwa Ibom State urged his fellow lawmakers to collaborate with President Bola Tinubu in tackling the nation’s challenges while maintaining their independence.
6. FG Inaugurates New Minimum Wage Committee
The federal government of Nigeria on Tuesday, inaugurated a 37-man Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage with a mandate to recommend a new National Minimum Wage for the Country.
The committee was inaugurated by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the council chamber of the Aso Rock Presidential Villa.
While inaugurating the committee, Shettima charged the members to consider the hardship caused by the removal of fuel subsidy and work to alleviate the suffering of the people.
As earlier reported by Naija News, the thirty-seven-member Committee is chaired by a former Head of Service of the Federation, Bukar Goni Aji.
The Vice President urged collective bargaining in good faith, emphasizing contract adherence and encouraging consultations outside the committee.
He further urged committee members to promptly reach a resolution and submit their reports.
7. Gov Oyebanji Confirms Ekiti School Children Abduction
The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, has confirmed the recent abduction of some school children in the state by unknown criminals.
Naija News reported earlier that some hoodlums suspected to be bandits attacked a school bus and whisked away the pupils.
The school bus driver’s whereabouts also could not be ascertained as of the time of filing this report.
Speculations are that the gunmen abducted six pupils and three teachers of a private school and their bus driver while they were returning from Eporo-Ekiti on Monday night.
Reacting to the incident, the Ekiti State Government, in a statement released on Tuesday, assured residents of the state not to despair as security has been stepped up to rescue them.
Oyebanji also described the kidnap as callous and unacceptable, saying nothing would be spared in the efforts to rescue them.
8. Ododo Debunks Reports Of Creating Office Of The Immediate Past Governor For Yahaya Bello In Kogi
The Governor of Kogi State, Usman Ododo, has distanced himself from reports circulating various social media and news platforms, suggesting that he approved the establishment of an office for the immediate past governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.
Naija News understands that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) House of Representatives candidate for Dekina/Bassa Fender Constituency in the 2023 elections, Austin Okai, had asserted in a post via his official X handle on Monday that the new office will be domiciled in the Government House in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital.
He insinuated that the new office would be occupied by the immediate past Governor of the state, Yahaya Bello.
However, in a press release made available to journalists on Tuesday morning, the Kogi State government through the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Ododo, Oladele John NIHI, stated that the viral claim is merely a fabrication created by individuals with malicious intentions.
9. Senate Summons Security Chiefs Amid Escalating Insecurity In Nigeria
The Nigerian Senate has called upon security chiefs for a meeting in response to the escalating insecurity in the country, with a specific date for the interaction to be determined later.
After a closed-door meeting lasting over three hours, the senate expressed its condemnation of the rising occurrences of kidnappings, banditry, and the outright murder of innocent citizens by criminals.
The Senate Leader, Michael Bamidele Opeyemi, revealed that all 109 senators sponsored the insecurity motion due to its importance.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in his remarks, expressed deep concern over the ongoing banditry and kidnappings.
He highlighted that the situation has escalated to the extent where intermediaries are facilitating ransom payments on behalf of kidnappers.
Akpabio vehemently condemned recent attacks by bandits in Plateau and the gas explosion in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
Akpabio also mentioned that a specific date will be decided for the security chiefs to appear before the Senate.
10. Nigeria Climbs In 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index By Transparency International
Nigeria has shown a notable improvement in the global fight against corruption, moving up five places in the 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI).
This advancement was reported on Tuesday by Transparency International, a leading global coalition against corruption.
In the latest CPI ranking, Nigeria scored 25 out of 100, a one-point increase from the previous year.
The country is now ranked 145th out of 180 nations and territories evaluated for perceived levels of public sector corruption.
This information was officially released on the Transparency International website.
The 2023 ranking marks a positive shift for Nigeria, which was placed 150th in 2022.
This improvement builds upon the nation’s gradual progress in the CPI over recent years.
That’s the top Nigerian newspaper headlines for today. Read more Nigerian news on Naija News. See you again tomorrow.
In a significant move aimed at reshaping the landscape of higher education financing in the country, President Bola Tinubu signed the Student Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act (Repeal and Re-Enactment) Bill, 2024, into law on Wednesday. This decisive action marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to enhance access to tertiary education for Nigerian students.
The genesis of this legislative milestone lies in the extensive reviews conducted by both the Senate and the House of Representatives on the report of the Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund. These thorough examinations sought to address the challenges plaguing the accessibility of higher education and to formulate effective solutions that align with the evolving needs of the educational landscape.
The Student Loans Act represents a comprehensive overhaul of the existing framework governing student loans, aiming to streamline the process and make higher education more financially attainable for aspiring scholars across the nation. By repealing and re-enacting the bill, the government demonstrates its commitment to fostering an environment where education is not merely a privilege but a fundamental right accessible to all.
While specific details of the newly enacted law are yet to be disclosed, it is anticipated that it will introduce significant reforms designed to alleviate the financial burden on students pursuing tertiary education. These reforms may include provisions for lower interest rates, extended repayment periods, and enhanced mechanisms for loan disbursement and management. Such measures are crucial in ensuring that no deserving student is deprived of educational opportunities due to financial constraints.
Moreover, the enactment of this legislation underscores the government’s recognition of the pivotal role education plays in driving national development and economic growth. By investing in human capital through initiatives like the Student Loans Act, Nigeria stands to benefit from a more skilled workforce equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern world and contribute meaningfully to society.
As the details of the Student Loans Act unfold in the coming days, stakeholders in the education sector, including students, educators, policymakers, and the wider public, eagerly anticipate the positive impact it will have on higher education accessibility and affordability. The implementation of this law represents not only a legislative triumph but also a beacon of hope for countless young Nigerians aspiring to fulfill their academic aspirations.
In conclusion, President Bola Tinubu’s signing of the Student Loans Act marks a significant milestone in the ongoing quest to democratize access to higher education in Nigeria. By enacting progressive reforms informed by thorough deliberations and expert insights, the government reaffirms its unwavering commitment to empowering the youth and building a brighter future for the nation.
Details of the enacted law are expected to be unveiled shortly, heralding a new era of opportunity and inclusivity in Nigerian higher education.
Nigeria, the giant of Africa, remains a nation pulsating with dynamic socio-political and economic developments. In recent times, a plethora of events has unfolded, offering a nuanced glimpse into the country’s multifaceted landscape. From government initiatives to combat illegal mining to discussions on minimum wage and security challenges, Nigeria’s current affairs paint a picture of a nation navigating through a myriad of challenges and opportunities.
Marshaling Against Illegal Mining:
The launch of the Marshals by Minister Dele Alake underscores Nigeria’s commitment to tackling the menace of illegal mining and solid mineral smuggling. With the formation of this squad from the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), the government aims to safeguard the country’s mineral resources and curb illicit activities in the mining sector.
Governors’ Deliberations on Minimum Wage:
The Nigeria Governors Forum’s deliberations on the new minimum wage highlight the complexities involved in setting wage standards in a diverse nation like Nigeria. Emphasizing data-driven and evidence-based decisions, the governors underscore the importance of considering individual state peculiarities and economic realities before arriving at a consensus on the minimum wage issue.
Military Response to Security Challenges:
The recent tragic incidents in Delta State have once again brought to the forefront the challenges faced by Nigeria’s security forces. The military’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence in volatile regions demonstrates a resolute stance against perpetrators of violence, emphasizing the need for justice and restoring peace in affected areas.
Foreign Exchange Backlog Clearance and Airline Concerns:
While the Central Bank’s announcement of clearing foreign exchange backlogs is a positive development, concerns raised by foreign airline operators underscore the importance of transparency in financial transactions. The demand for evidence of payment reflects the need for accountability and clarity in economic policies affecting foreign entities operating in Nigeria.
Military Successes Against Terrorism:
The Minister of Information’s disclosure of military successes against terrorism offers a glimmer of hope in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against insurgency. However, it also serves as a reminder of the persistent threats faced by the country and the continued efforts required to ensure the safety and security of its citizens.
Political Developments and Leadership Dynamics:
Eyitayo Jegede’s withdrawal from the Ondo governorship race and the meeting between Governor Ododo and President Tinubu highlight the intricacies of Nigerian politics and the evolving dynamics within political parties. Additionally, the accusations leveled by Nnamdi Kanu’s family against Igbo leaders underscore the complexities surrounding identity politics and leadership accountability.
Economic Measures Amidst Challenges:
President Tinubu’s directive to ban foreign trips by government officials reflects a proactive approach to cost-cutting measures amid economic challenges. This move signals a commitment to fiscal responsibility and prudent financial management in navigating Nigeria’s economic landscape.
Conclusion:
Nigeria’s current affairs encapsulate a tapestry of events, from governmental initiatives to combat illegal activities to discussions on minimum wage and security challenges. As the nation grapples with various issues, including economic fluctuations and security threats, these developments underscore the importance of concerted efforts towards sustainable growth, transparency, and accountability in governance. Only through collective action and strategic policymaking can Nigeria overcome its challenges and realize its full potential as a beacon of progress in Africa.
The recent assertion by Senate President Godswill Akpabio regarding the gruesome murder of 16 military personnel in Delta State has sparked controversy and drawn sharp criticism from civil society organizations (CSOs) and security experts.
Akpabio’s remarks, made during a Senate plenary session, suggested a connection between the massacre and foreign mercenaries, implying that the perpetrators may not be from the Niger Delta region. This statement came as the Senate deliberated on setting up a committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the killings.
Reacting to Akpabio’s claims, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and Transparency International-Nigeria (TI-Nigeria), condemned any attempt to provide a soft landing for the perpetrators of such heinous crimes. Rafsanjani emphasized that criminal acts should be unequivocally condemned, regardless of the perpetrators’ origins, asserting that a criminal remains a criminal irrespective of their nationality.
Similarly, Gad Peter, Executive Director of the CLEEN Foundation, cautioned political leaders against making hasty or speculative comments following incidents or crimes. Peter highlighted the importance of providing evidence to support such claims, especially when attributing responsibility to foreign entities. He called on Akpabio to substantiate his statement by providing concrete details regarding the alleged foreign involvement in the attack, suggesting that failure to do so could have significant diplomatic implications.
The remarks by CSOs and security experts underscore the need for responsible and evidence-based communication from public officials, particularly in matters involving national security and criminal investigations. Speculative statements not only risk inflaming tensions but also undermine public trust and confidence in the government’s ability to address security challenges effectively.
The call for thorough investigations into the Delta State military murders remains paramount, with stakeholders urging transparency and accountability in the quest for justice. As the nation grapples with security threats and acts of violence, it is imperative that political leaders exercise caution in their public statements, prioritizing factual accuracy and adherence to due process.
Ultimately, the resolution of such tragic incidents demands a concerted effort from all stakeholders, guided by a commitment to uphold the rule of law and protect the safety and security of all citizens, including members of the armed forces who bravely serve the nation.
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