Sixteen year old Essien makes golf history in Northern Ireland

Sixteen-year-old Nigerian golfer, Iyeneobong Essien, created an enviable record at the Champion of Champions World Golf Championship Invitational in Northern Ireland by finishing first runner-up.

Iyene, as she is fondly called, is one teenager seeking to put Nigeria’s name on the map in the world of golf. She has competed on several continents and currently tops the junior player cadre in Nigeria.

The teenager competed in the 16 to 19 years category between July 26 to 28, 2022 at the Invitational; playing on two challenging courses, the Faldo Course and the Castle Hume Course at the Lough Erne Resort in Enniskillen, Fermanagh, Northern Ireland.

These courses have hosted several PGA Tournaments played by some of the World’s best golfers, including World number 2, Rory Mcllroy, who played at the recently concluded British Open. He played in the Faldo course as a junior golfer.

Recognizing her feat, Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare has promised her a handsome cash reward for her effort.

For Iyene, it took the close observation of a father to see her talent manifest, adding that he is optimistic about his daughter’s future.

Winning her first medal at five, she has added almost two dozen more medals to her coffers and has represented Nigeria 11 times at tournaments in Africa, Europe, and the United States.

Commonwealth 2022:Team Nigeria win another Gold and a Silver Medal

Nigerian weightlifters have continued to do the country proud in Birmingham, as Rafiatu Folashade clinch another gold medal and set a new record.

Nigeria’s first gold at the games was won by Adijat Adenike Olarinoye.

Adijat competed in the women’s 55kg. She lifted 92kg in the snatch, and 111kg in clean & jerk, for a total of 203kg.

Weightlifter Edidiong Umoafia won a bronze medal in the men’s 67kg category.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s men’s table tennis team has advanced to the semi-finals of the event.

After a sluggish start at NEC Hall 3 on Sunday, an inspired Nigerian side, led by Quadri Aruna, bounced back to defeat Malaysia 3-2.

Nigeria join Singapore, who defeated Canada, in the semis, which hold on Monday.

University of South Africa grants WAFCON champions Banyana Banyana bursaries

The University of South Africa (Unisa) has granted special bursaries to Banyana Banyanaof South Africa players.

This will allow the players to pursue their studies after recently winning the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The team won the final in Morocco on Saturday after beating the host nation 2-1 in Rabat.

In a statement released on Friday, Unisa’s Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor Puleng LenkaBula said the university will make available a special bursary programme for the 23 players.

“The historic victory of South Africa in the African football scene after twenty-six years is very inspirational to Unisa, the youth, and South Africa as a whole. The achievement of Banyana resonates with Unisa’s values of innovation, excellence, and responsiveness. It is for this reason that Unisa saw it befitting to offer our exemplary champions the opportunity to further their studies and futures.

“We hope that in the same manner that Banyana has inspired the nation; this small gesture will inspire young girls and boys to believe in sport, virtues of discipline and excellence and that there are long-term benefits and rewards associated with such virtues,” added LenkaBula.

“The offer, whose terms and conditions will be communicated to the potential recipients, is effective from January 2023.

2022 Commonwealth:First Gold Medal for Team Nigeria

Team Nigeria won its first gold medal in the 2022 Commonwealth Games with Weightlifter Olarinoye Adenike Adijat securing Nigeria’s first gold medal at the ongoing Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

Olarinoye recorded 92kg in the 55kg women’s snatch event in Weightlifting.

She lifted 92kg in the snatch, 111kg in clean and jerk, lifting 203kg in total.

India’s Sorokhaniban lfter settled for the silver, while England’s Fraer won the bronze.

Olarinoye’s victory threw the Team Nigeria camp into jubilation after other Nigerian lifters failed to make the podium.

Earlier on Saturday, Nigeria men’s table tennis team qualified for the quarter-finals after defeating Cyprus in their final group game.

The Quadri Aruna-led side will now take on Malaysia in the last eight on Sunday.

In boxing, Abdul-Afeez Osoba progressed into the round of 16, after knocking out Carl Hield of Bahamas in the first round of the men’s light middleweight.

However in the women’s light middleweight, Bolanle Shogbamu lost out to home girl Jodie Wilkinson.

We Can’t Continue This War Forever; We Need To Lay Foundation For Sustainable Peace – NHRC Boss

We Can’t Continue This War Forever; We Need To Lay Foundation For Sustainable Peace – NHRC Boss

Abuja (Peionews) – The Executive Secretary of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Chief Tony Ojukwu SAN has lamented the destruction caused by a decade of insurgency in North East Nigeria saying we cannot continue the war forever.

He made this statement in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital during the second meeting of the Borno State Project Advisory Committee (SPAC) on Promoting Reconciliation, Reintegration, and Transitional Justice in some parts of the North East.

He said a lot of havoc has been caused by Boko Haram insurgency to the affected States and Communities, and the Commission through its Project on Promoting Reconciliation, Reintegration, and Transitional Justice in the States of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe, which is supported by the European Union (EU) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has begun to lay a foundation for a sustainable, peaceful and developed society where consideration will be given to the victims and the communities, not undermining the necessity for justice with regards to the perpetrators.

This was the position of the NHRC Boss according to the statement signed by the Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Fatimah Agwai Mohammed made available to newsmen in Abuja.

Ojukwu said although the road to reconciliation is long tough and rough, the fact remains that it is only through true reconciliation that we can move the country forward. Therefore, we need to have a sense of justice and restitution, this may not come in terms of cash, but our readiness to put the wounds and pains behind us, in the interest of the nation and a great future is very important for our society.

The Human Rights Boss commended the commitment exhibited by members of SPAC on the implementation of the Transitional Justice Project in Borno State. He said, “the Commission welcomes the acceptance of members of the Committee to work on this Project, the Committee is an important mechanism through which the Commission intends to strengthen and accelerate the achievement of the Transitional Justice Project and promote accountability to the Project’s objectives and outcomes”.

The Chairman of the SPAC who is also the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary Borno State Ministry of Justice, Barr Hussaini Izge disclosed that “there are indications that we are exiting the horrific situation, the closure of some camps in Maiduguri is a signal that the peace that we are praying for is gradually returning”.

He said, “with the composition of the SPAC, we will cooperate and use our individual and collective expertise to assist the Commission to ensure that this project is implemented to the later”.

It would be recalled that in March 2022, the SPAC made up of stakeholders involving government institutions and United Nations agencies with humanitarian response was constituted to assist the Commission in playing their unique roles to ensure the smooth implementation of the Transitional Justice Project in the Project States.

In a goodwill message from the Project implementing partner, the UNDP Security Analyst, Usman Usman said Transitional Justice remains key to peacebuilding, especially in the present situation where the government is recording maximum exit of persons from the Boko Haram Sect. He said UNDP is ready and committed to supporting the Borno State government to achieve lasting peace.

His colleague who is also from UNDP Mr. Roy Tore-Bem, acknowledged that though the Project is at its last stage and gradually winding down, he encouraged stakeholders on the need to show serious commitment more than ever before in order to fully actualize the purpose of the Project.

The Project Coordinator who is also the Human Rights Adviser to the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Mr. Hillary Ogbonna gave a rundown of the achievement of the Project including; Capacity building for Media on Reconciliation and Transitional Justice, Development of a framework for Transitional Justice and Reconciliation, Harnessing Community Information and Data for Transitional Justice, Communication and Advocacy to Promote Transitional Justice and Reconciliation etc.

He further stated that there are other important activities under the Project which are yet to be achieved like; Sensitization, Advocacy, and Outreaches, (this will involve traditional/religious leaders forum on reconciliation) Capacity Building and Training, Transitional Justice at the Community Level (involving constitution of transitional justice panel, community reconciliation, and healing sessions etc).

Other stakeholders commented on various issues that would assist in the successful implementation of the Project as they pledged their strong support.

Naira Free Fall: Senate Summons CBN Governor

Naira Free Fall: Senate Summons CBN Governor

The Senate, on Wednesday, resolved to summon the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, to educate and inform senators in a closed session on the reasons for the rapid depreciation of the value of the naira.

It also mandated the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions to assess the impact of CBN intervention funds meant to support critical sectors of the economy.

The resolutions were reached by lawmakers after the upper chamber considered a motion sponsored by Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi (APC – Ekiti North). 

The motion was entitled, “State of CBN Intervention Funds and Free Fall Of Naira.”

Coming under Order 41 and 51 of the Senate Standing Order, as amended, Adetunmbi bemoaned Nigeria’s economic reality amid an urgent call for “extraordinary measures”.

He noted that the CBN through its numerous multi-sectoral intervention funds, provided special funds to support critical sectors of the economy.

He explained that in view of such interventions, it had become necessary to assess the state of implementation and effectiveness of the funds deployed for the purpose.

The lawmaker, recalled that the CBN in 2021, placed an indefinite halt on forex bidding by Bureau de Change operators (BDCS) and importers over allegations of abuse and mismanagement.

He observed that the halt by the CBN resulted in a spike of the exchange rate.

According to Adetunmbi, “the two instruments of Personal Travel Allowance (PTA) and Business Travel Allowance (BTA) could only serve less than 20% of the total forex demand by travelers and businesses.”

He expressed worry that the import and export window meant to serve the forex needs of business giants, “has become a rare opportunity that only a privileged few can access.” 

“These and a number of others have contributed to the excessive scarcity of forex in Nigeria today”, he added.

He noted that as at the 26th of July 2022 (yesterday), the exchange rate in the autonomous segment (BDCS) of the foreign exchange market is N670 to 1 United States Dollar and projected to end at N1000 by end of the year based on the current rate of depreciation.

He, therefore, advised the Central Bank to take new measures to curb forex scarcity and address the sliding rate of Naira exchange.

In his contribution, Senator Sani Musa (APC – Niger East), faulted the Central Bank’s decision to halt foreign exchange biddings, thereby cutting off the parallel market – Bureau de change operators. 

According to him, the attempt by the CBN to control the value of the naira with the continuous exclusion of BDCs would only lead to its further depreciation.

He, therefore, advised the apex bank to rather ensure the regulation and monitoring of the parallel market. 

“What CBN used to do was to give out $10,000 (USD) to each of these BDCs with a clear directive for it not to be sold above N470 as against the $419 exchange rate. It worked.

“But today, nobody is determining where the rate is going and I can assure you we can’t have that solution because we are only importing”, he said.

On his part, Senator representing Katsina North District, Senator Ahmad Babba-Kaita, said one way to improve the value of the naira was to encourage foreign investments to attract inflow of other currencies into Nigeria. 

“The only way we can access the dollar will be determined by other economies and not ours”, he noted.

He, however, attributed the lack of foreign investments into Nigeria on the poor security situation caused by banditry, terrorism and other criminal activities. 

The Senate, in its resolutions, called on the CBN to urgently intervene to stop the rapid decline in the value of the Naira vis-à-vis the Dollar and other international currencies.

It also mandated the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions to conduct an assessment of CBN intervention funds and the declining value of Naira to come up with sustainable solutions.

Security Threats Prompt Nasarawa Govt To Orders Immediate Closure Of Both Public, Private Schools

Security Threats Prompt Nasarawa Govt To Orders Immediate Closure Of Both Public, Private Schools

Nasarawa State Government has ordered for the immediate closure of both public and private schools, as a proactive step to safeguard the lives of students from across the state.

This follows on the heels of security threats across the country, particularly at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), with government already in possession of reports suggesting likely security threats in communities within the state, bordering the FCT, such as Gitata and Umaisha.

The decision to order for the closure of schools across the state, was part of the resolution arrived at during an expanded state executive council meeting, which took place at the Government House, on Wednesday.

Briefing journalists shortly after the council meeting, state Commissioner for Education, Hajiya Fatu Jimaita Sabo, disclosed that, having considered and reviewed the current situation in the country, especially regarding the security threats in the FCT, the state government decided to close both public and private schools in the state with immediate effect.

Hajiya Sabo said this has become necessary considering the proximity of the state to the FCT, as well as the resolve of the government to ensure that schools in Nasarawa State, operate within a safe environment.

She however explained that the directives excludes the exit classes that are already writing their final examinations, especially in secondary schools.

While announcing that her ministry will, in due course, issue a circular to that effect, the education commissioner however appealed to parents not to panic, adding that Nasarawa State is safe but that the decision was taken as a proactive step to safeguard the lives of both pupils and students across the state.

Hajiya Sabo equally appealed to principals and heads of respective schools, to also ensure the schools are closed in an orderly manner, especially that there is no threat to any life or property presently in Nasarawa State.

“We are appealing to parents not to panic. We all know that Nasarawa State is safe but this decision was taken as a proactive measure to ensure that our children are safe and continue to remain safe. That is for those within the state and those that came from other states to study here.

“We want to also appeal to our principals and heads of respective schools, to also ensure that while we are closing these schools, we do it in an orderly manner. There’s no threat to any life or property as at now in Nasarawa State. And as I mentioned, it’s just part of government’s proactive measure. We are all aware, that His Excellency, Engineer Abdullahi Sule, has always prioritized security and safety of lives and property in Nasarawa State,” she stated.

The commissioner emphasized that, the decision is one of the measures that has been taken to ensure that the administration continue to maintain a safe environment within Nasarawa State.

Urgently Address Insecurity in Nigeria Or Face Impeachment – Senate Minority Caucus Tell Buhari

The minority caucus of the Senate on Wednesday gave President Muhammadu Buhari six weeks to address security challenges bedeviling the country or face impeachment.

The members of the minority parties which stormed out of the plenary said they were angered by the fact that the President of the Senate, Ahmed Lawan refused to disclose the resolution reached while they met behind closed doors.

Aduda who disclosed this while addressing the Press on the impeachment threat and what gave rise to their walk-out, Senate Minority Leader, Senator Philip Tanimu Aduda said over the last two years the Senate has given the executive all it’s demands to curb the insecurity.

He said that insecurity in the country has reached it’s crescendo and even Abuja – the seat of power is not safe.

Aduda said that the level of insecurity in the country was the nucleus of their discussion held behind closed doors but that they were surprised that the Senate President failed to read the riot act at the plenary as was agreed.

Senator Aduda who spoke on behalf of other members said that the impeachment process of President Buhari will commence after six weeks if he fails to tackle and arrest the unprecedented insecurity situation in the country head on.

The senate caucus members who were chanting “All we are saying, Buhari must go” protest song have gone into closed doors meeting.

Confirm Justice Ariwoola as CJN – Buhari writes Senate

Confirm Justice Ariwoola as CJN – Buhari writes Senate

The Senate has received a formal request from President Muhammadu Buhari, to confirm the nomination of Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola as the Chief Justice of Nigeria.

The request was contained in a letter dated 25th July, 2022, and read by the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, at the start of plenary on Tuesday. 

The letter reads, “”Pursuant to Section 231(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), I forward for confirmation by the Senate, the appointment of Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola as the Chief Justice of Nigeria.

“While I hope that the submission will be considered in the usual expeditious manner, please accept, Distinguished Senate President, the assurances of my highest consideration.”

Justice Ariwoola’s appointment as CJN by President Buhari was sequel to the resignation of former Chief Justice Muhammad Tanko on 27th June, 2022.

Tanko’s resignation was against the backdrop of a protest by 14 aggrieved Justices over issues of welfare. 

However, the former CJN, in his resignation letter, cited health grounds as reason for his decision. 

In another letter to the Senate dated 21st July, 2022, President Muhammadu Buhari requested the upper chamber to confirm the nomination of Dr. Suleiman Agha Afikpo as Commissioner representing the South-East zone, at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.

He explained that the request was in accordance with the provision of Section 3(2) of the Hajj Commission Act. Cap. 321, Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 2004.

Buhari Seeks Senate Confirmation Of 19 Nominees As INEC Commissioners

Buhari Seeks Senate Confirmation Of 19 Nominees As INEC Commissioners

President Muhammadu Buhari has written the Senate to confirm 19 nominees as Resident Electoral Commissioners for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The confirmation request to the upper chamber was contained in a letter dated 25th July, 2022.

The letter was read at plenary by the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan.

President Buhari, in the letter, said that the request for the confirmation of the nominees was in accordance with the Provisions of Section 154 (1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

He explained that the nomination of five (5) Resident Electoral Commissioners are for renewal, while the other fourteen (14) are fresh appointments. 

The nominees for confirmation include: Ibrahim Abdullahi (Adamawa – Renewal); Obo O. Effanga (Cross River – Renewal); Alh. Umar Ibrahim (Taraba – Renewal); Dr. Agboke Mutiu Olaleke (Ogun – Renewal); and Prof. Samuel E. Egwu (Kogi – Renewal).

Others are: Onyeka Pauline Ugochi (Imo); Prof. Muhammad Lawal Bashir (Sokoto); Prof. Ayobami Salami (Oyo); Amb. Zango Abdussamadu Abdu (Katsina); Mrs. Queen Elizabeth Agwu (Ebonyi); and Dr. Agundu Oliver Tersoo (Benue).

Also to be confirmed are: Yomere Gabriel Oritsemlebi (Delta); Prof. Yahaya Makarfi Ibrahim (Kaduna); Dr. Nura Ali (Kano); Agu Sylvia Uchenna (Enugu); Ahmed Yushau Garki (FCT); Barr. Hudu Yunusa (Bauchi); Prof. Uzochukwu Ikemefuna Chijioke (Anambra); and Mohammed B. Nura (Yobe).