I Didn’t Come To Look For Money, I Came To Work – Tinubu

 

President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration is focused on addressing key national challenges, including infrastructure, food and energy security, education, and economic stability. Speaking at a meeting with the Forum of Former Presiding Officers of the National Assembly, led by former Senate President Ken Nnamani, Tinubu emphasized that his presidency is driven by a commitment to work, not personal gain.

"I didn't come to look for money or exploit the situation; I came to work. I asked for the votes, and Nigerians entrusted me with them," the President stated, as shared by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga.

The meeting, which included 16 former legislative leaders, highlighted the importance of unity and cooperation across political lines. Tinubu expressed appreciation for the support he has received, irrespective of party affiliations, and urged continued collaboration to achieve national development goals.

Reflecting on the challenges facing Nigeria, Tinubu pointed out the importance of addressing issues such as neglected communities, dilapidated schools, and low school enrollment. He stressed the need for improvements in the education system, stating that a conducive learning environment is essential for encouraging student enrollment.

“We must do more to improve our communities, especially those that have contributed significantly to the country's wealth. Neglecting education and infrastructure has long-term consequences,” he remarked.

President Tinubu also outlined his administration's approach to tackling the country's challenges, including strengthening infrastructure, exploring alternative energy sources, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. He emphasized the need for collaboration and inclusiveness to foster national progress.

Senator Nnamani, speaking on behalf of the Forum, expressed strong support for Tinubu's leadership and efforts to address the nation's issues. He acknowledged the complex challenges facing Nigeria, including insecurity, economic downturn, and infrastructural decay, and praised Tinubu’s proactive steps in addressing these concerns.

Nnamani also commended Tinubu for his decisive actions on local government autonomy and for appointing experienced members of the group to key national positions. The Forum pledged its continued support to help restore national security, boost economic growth, and strengthen unity among Nigeria's diverse communities.

FG Invests $250 Million in Solar Mini-Grids for Universities, Teaching Hospitals

 

The Federal Government has announced the expenditure of approximately $250 million to improve electricity supply in 24 federal universities and four teaching hospitals across Nigeria. This is part of efforts by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration to enhance alternative energy access in underserved and rural areas.

The projects, carried out under the Energizing Education Programme (EEP) as part of the Nigeria Electrification Project by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), involve installing solar-powered mini-grids and upgrading distribution infrastructure. The initiative spans both phases I and II of the programme, aimed at providing consistent and affordable power to educational institutions.

Speaking at the close of a two-day stakeholder forum in Abuja, the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, represented by Mr. Bem Anyangeaor, highlighted the positive impact of reliable energy on educational outcomes. He emphasized that access to electricity enables schools to extend learning hours, incorporate modern technology, and foster a conducive learning environment.

"Reliable electricity leads to increased enrollment, better academic performance, and improved productivity for both teachers and students," Adelabu said. "The EEP was designed to address electricity access issues in our educational institutions, particularly in rural areas where supply is inconsistent or inadequate."

Adelabu stressed the need for investment in renewable energy and improved infrastructure to overcome these challenges. "By investing in energy infrastructure and ensuring access to affordable electricity, we can create a brighter future for our nation," he added.

REA's Managing Director/CEO, Abba Abubakar Aliyu, stated that the programme is designed to provide stable electricity to 37 federal universities and seven teaching hospitals. So far, $250 million has been allocated for solar-powered mini-grids and distribution upgrades, including substations and metering systems.

Aliyu revealed that the solar hybrid plants installed at these institutions have a combined capacity to generate over 100 megawatts of clean energy. These initiatives also include the establishment of world-class training centres to educate students on renewable energy technologies.

Mr. Olufemi Akinyelure, Head of the Nigeria Electrification Project, confirmed that while phase II of the project has been completed, phase III is set to be ready by the first quarter of next year. He clarified that although power from these facilities will not be free, it will be more affordable than conventional grid power.

Akinyelure added that agreements with the universities and teaching hospitals ensure the long-term sustainability of the power plants. The agreements outline responsibilities and financial commitments, ensuring that the institutions take an active role in maintaining the facilities in collaboration with REA.

Benefiting institutions include Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, University of Lagos, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, University of Benin, and University of Abuja, among others.

 

Killing of Japanese Schoolboy in China Raises Concerns Among Japanese Expats

 

The recent killing of a Japanese schoolboy in Shenzhen, China, has raised concerns among Japanese expatriates, prompting major Japanese companies to advise their employees to stay vigilant. Companies like Toshiba and Toyota have urged their staff to take extra safety precautions, while Panasonic has offered its employees and their families free flights back to Japan.

Japanese officials have condemned the incident, with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida calling the attack "despicable" and urging the Chinese government to ensure the safety of Japanese citizens living in China.

The 10-year-old boy was fatally stabbed on Wednesday outside the Shenzhen Japanese School, marking the third attack on foreigners in China in recent months. In response, Panasonic is providing counselling services and offering to cover travel expenses for those wishing to return to Japan. Toshiba, which employs around 100 people in China, also advised its staff to be cautious.

Japan’s ambassador to China has asked the Chinese government to take measures to protect Japanese nationals, and several Japanese schools in China have alerted parents, with some cancelling activities and advising against speaking Japanese loudly in public.

Chinese authorities have expressed sadness over the incident and have taken steps to improve security near the school, including installing surveillance cameras. The suspect, a 44-year-old man with a criminal record, was arrested at the scene. Local police are investigating the motive behind the attack, but they have labeled it as an "isolated incident."

Despite rising concerns among Japanese residents in China, Chinese officials have emphasized that this violence does not reflect the broader behavior of Chinese citizens. Flowers were placed at the Japanese school gate in memory of the victim, with local residents expressing sorrow over the tragedy.

The killing has occurred amid historically strained relations between China and Japan, but the incident is not expected to significantly impact economic ties between the two countries, which have continued despite ongoing diplomatic tensions.

Kamala Harris Discusses Personal Gun Ownership, Supports Assault Weapons Ban

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, in a light-hearted exchange during a livestreamed event with Oprah Winfrey in Michigan, discussed her stance on personal safety and firearms. During the conversation, Harris jokingly remarked, "If somebody breaks into my house, they're getting shot." She quickly added, “I probably shouldn’t have said that, but my staff will deal with that later,” after laughing with Winfrey and the audience.

Harris, who has previously confirmed her gun ownership, reiterated her support for stricter gun control measures, particularly a ban on assault weapons. She stated that such firearms were "literally designed to be a tool of war" and should not be available on the streets of a civil society.

Despite her strong advocacy for tighter gun laws, Harris emphasized that she supports the Second Amendment, which protects the right to gun ownership, and owns a firearm for personal safety, drawing on her background as a former prosecutor.

The vice president’s views on gun control have faced scrutiny, especially with changes in her position over time. During the 2020 Democratic primary, Harris voiced support for a mandatory gun buyback program, which would require owners to turn in assault-style weapons. However, she has since shifted her stance, no longer pushing for a compulsory buyback.

Harris expressed deep concern over the ongoing issue of gun violence in the U.S., particularly school shootings. She described it as "bone-chilling" that children have to undergo drills for such incidents and reiterated that tighter gun laws, including universal background checks and red-flag laws, could help prevent further tragedies.

Her discussion with Winfrey also touched on other pressing issues such as immigration and the economy.

Imo State Set for Free and Fair Election on September 21st

 By Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

As the upcoming election in Imo State draws near, scheduled for Saturday, September 21st, there have been renewed calls for peace and unity. Citizens are encouraged to promote a free and fair electoral process, ensuring that the election day remains devoid of violence, misconduct, and corruption.

Prince Ifeanyi Chinaemeonyeukwu Edward Moses Ikeanaemenanwa Nwosu Nwokororie, a notable figure from the Nwokororie Ancient Kingdom, Umuechendu Umueze Ofekata Orodo, Mbaitoli LGA, has shared his perspective on the elections. He has urged all political aspirants to avoid harmful and criminal activities such as violence, kidnapping, and destruction of property. He emphasised the importance of maintaining peace, love, and unity, advising against acts of bribery and ritualism in the pursuit of power.

‘We must come together as one,’ Prince Ifeanyi stated. ‘On election day, we should focus on peace and show harmony among ourselves. Deceit, felonies, and acrimony should not define our political process. We must remember that we are one in faith, and that our unity is what moves our community forward.’

He further urged the people of Mbaitoli LGA to set an example for other Local Government Areas (LGAs) by conducting themselves peacefully, regardless of the election's outcome. ‘Whoever wins should be supported by all for the progress of our LGA, state, and the country at large,’ he concluded, offering a prayer for the success of the election.

The call for a peaceful election resonates deeply in the region as Imo State prepares for a pivotal day in its political landscape.

 

Key Events in the Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Day 938

 

As of Friday, September 20, 2024, here are the latest developments in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Fighting:

Russian airstrikes hit a nursing home in Sumy, northeastern Ukraine, killing at least one person and injuring 13, according to the regional military administration.

Attacks on energy infrastructure in the same region caused temporary disruptions, Ukraine's national grid operator, Ukrenergo, reported.

An elderly woman was killed, and two others were injured during Russian shelling in Ukraine's Zaporizhia region, which saw 161 attacks over the previous 24 hours, damaging infrastructure and residential buildings, said the region's governor.

Ukraine’s air force claimed to have shot down 42 Russian drones and one of four missiles fired during recent attacks.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy mentioned that Ukraine's surprise offensive in the Kursk region of Russia led to the diversion of 40,000 Russian troops from eastern Ukraine, although the situation on the eastern front remains challenging.

Russia claimed control of the village of Georgievka, about 30 kilometers west of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine.

Politics and Diplomacy:

The United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine stated that Russian attacks on Ukraine’s electricity infrastructure likely violated international humanitarian law.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected to announce €160 million in new funding for Ukraine’s energy sector during her visit to Kyiv. A significant portion of the funds may come from Russian assets frozen within the EU since the 2022 invasion.

In Saint Petersburg, 18-year-old Daria Kozyreva is on trial for protesting Russia’s invasion by placing a Ukrainian poem on a statue. She is charged with "discrediting the Russian army" and could face up to five years in prison.

In Russia's Primorye region, a 19-year-old student was jailed for nearly two months for allegedly supporting a banned Ukrainian paramilitary group online. In Tyumen, authorities opened a treason case against a local programmer accused of working with a foreign entity.

A criminal case was also launched against Kirill Martynov, the exiled chief editor of Novaya Gazeta, for allegedly creating an "undesirable" group.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet separately with US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on September 26 to reaffirm US support for Ukraine. Talks with Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump are also expected, though not yet confirmed by Trump’s team.

Weapons and Military Support:

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a significant increase in domestic drone production, with plans to manufacture nearly 1.4 million drones this year.

Germany is reportedly preparing to approve nearly €400 million in additional military aid to Ukraine, including ammunition, fighting vehicles, and drones. This is on top of the €8 billion already allocated for Ukraine in 2024.

The European Parliament passed a non-binding resolution calling for Ukraine to be allowed to use Western-supplied weapons to strike military targets within Russia. In response, Vyacheslav Volodin, a top Russian lawmaker, warned of the potential risk of nuclear war if such actions were sanctioned.

This update reflects the ongoing and complex nature of the conflict, with significant military, political, and diplomatic developments.

Israeli Strikes in Gaza City Kill 10, Including Children

 

Israeli forces conducted airstrikes in Gaza City, targeting the Zeitoun and Sheikh Radwan neighborhoods, resulting in the deaths of 10 Palestinians, including children. The strikes are part of ongoing hostilities in the region that have led to significant casualties on both sides.

In a related development, the Israeli military acknowledged for the first time that three Israeli captives who died in Gaza last November were likely killed in Israeli airstrikes. This marks a shift in Israel's previous stance, where it had denied responsibility for the deaths.

Meanwhile, tensions have escalated beyond Gaza, with Yemen's Houthi forces firing a missile deep into Israeli territory. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed a strong response to the attack, promising to hold the group accountable.

The conflict has resulted in over 41,000 deaths and more than 95,000 injuries in Gaza, according to official figures. In Israel, at least 1,139 people were killed in the October 7 Hamas-led attacks, with over 200 individuals still held captive.