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Showing posts from September, 2024

FULL TEXT OF ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, GOVERNOR AHMED USMAN ODODO OF KOGI STATE TO THE STATE TO COMMEMORATE NIGERIA’S 64TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY, THIS 1ST DAY OF OCTOBER, 2024

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Fellow Kogites, my dear compatriots, It is with great joy that I address you today on this special occasion of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary. I join millions of Nigerians at home and abroad in celebrating this milestone in our journey as a nation. I felicitate with the good people of Kogi State and all Nigerians as we mark 64 years of our nation’s emancipation from British colonial rule. Today, we honor the national heroes from every corner of this great country who fought courageously for our freedom. Their sacrifices remind us that our liberty was hard-earned, and we must cherish and safeguard it. We also commend all leaders – both civilian and military – who have governed Nigeria, and those who have led us in our dear State too, since independence. Though none of them were perfect, each contributed to keeping Nigeria and Kogi State united and moving forward. Our journey as a nation has not been without challenges. We are a country of great diversity – territories, tribes, ...

Nigeria @ 64: Kogi Assembly Speaker Celebrates Nation's Independence

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The Speaker of Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Aliyu Umar Yusuf has congratulated Nigerians through the people of the State on the occasion of the nation's attainment of indepence from British Colonial Rule. This is contained in a press statement signed and made available to the media by the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Yabagi Mohammed.  The Speaker particularly congratulated the people of the state for their gallant roles in the march to self government for the country which was realised in 1960, and urged them to continue to sustain their belief in the country and the state to be better.  Even as there are many challenges confronting the country, Rt Hon Umar stressed the need for citizens to be patient and appealed for continued belief in the ability of the current administration to make Nigeria better. He said government at all levels are working round the clock to ensure they address the socioeconomic and political issues confronting Nigeria and urged the cit...

Nigeria @ 64: Kogi Specialist Hospital CMD Congratulates Nigerian's, Hails Governor Ododo On Development

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As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence Anniversary, the Chief Medical Director of Kogi State Specialist Hospital Lokoja, Prof. Isah Yahaya Adagiri, has extended his heartfelt greetings to Nigerians. In a statement, Prof. Adagiri congratulated His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, for his laudable achievements and efforts to consolidate on the solid foundation laid by his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, CON. Prof. Adagiri commended Governor Ododo for advancing Kogi State’s development across various sectors, including healthcare, infrastructure, and security. He praised the Governor’s vision in continuing the legacy of progress initiated by former Governor Bello, describing it as a testament to the resilience and leadership Kogi State is known for. Reflecting on Nigeria’s journey since independence, Prof. Adagiri emphasized the need for a country where every citizen is treated with fairness and respect under the rule of law. He expr...

HON. ALHAJI ALFA HALILU ACCOMPANIED BY HIS BELOVED WIFE PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO DEPUTY GOVERNOR ELDER JOEL OYIBO SALIFU

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PRESS RELEASE  HON. ALHAJI ALFA HALILU ACCOMPANIED BY HIS BELOVED WIFE PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO DEPUTY GOVERNOR ELDER JOEL OYIBO SALIFU  30th September, 2024.  Lokoja, Kogi State.  Hon. Alhaji Alfa Halilu, accompanied by his wife, Hajia Aisha Abdullahi Alfa, paid a courtesy visit to His Excellency, Deputy Governor Elder Joel Oyibo Salifu, at his office. The visit aimed to express profound appreciation for the Deputy Governor's unwavering support and encouragement during challenging times. Hon. Alfa Halilu also sought continued backing throughout Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo's administration. Hajia Aisha Abdullahi Alfa seized the opportunity to commend Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo for his visionary leadership and transformative impact on Kogi State. "I am deeply grateful for Your Excellency's guidance and support. Your leadership has inspired me to serve our people with dedication and passion. I pledge to continue working tirelessly for the progress of Kogi St...

Kogi State Government To Celebrate Nigeria's 64th Independence In Grand Style

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The Kogi State Government through the State Ministry Of Youths And Sports Development to celebrate Nigeria's sixty fourth Independence Day tomorrow in Lokoja.  The event, which will hold at Edge Drive Hotel in Lokoja, is scheduled to begin at ten o'clock in the morning. The event with the theme "From Independence to Innovation: The Youth as Catalyst for Nigeria's Transformation." aims to bring together the general public, youth, and supporters of Nigeria in the state to commemorate this significant day. Attendees can look forward to dancing and live performances at the occasion as It promises to be a day filled with patriotism and celebration. We encourage all residents of Kogi State to join us in honoring Nigeria's sixty-fourth Independence Day. James Sani, Information Officer, Kogi State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development Lokoja.

KOGI COUNCIL POLL: HON. ALHAJI ALFA HALILU UNVEILS CAMPAIGN COUNCIL

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PRESS RELEASE  23rd September, 2024.  Idah, Kogi State.  Hon. Alhaji Alfa Halilu's Campaign Organisation has officially unveiled its Campaign Council, marking a great milestone in the upcoming elections.  This strategic move demonstrates the organisation's commitment to mobilizing support and ensuring a successful campaign. Congratulations Once Again IDAH LOCAL GOVERNMENT APC CAMPAIGN COUNCIL 1. CHAIRMAN - PRINCE SALISU SANI OGU 2. VICE CHAIRMAN - HON. ALHASSAN ADEJOH OGU (APC PARTY CHAIRMAN) 3. DIRECTOR GENERAL-HON. HALIDU USMAN 4. SECRETARY COMR. BALA MUSA ELEOJO 5. ALL WARD CHAIRMEN CENTRAL PLANNING COMMITTEE 1. ALHAJI FRIDAY IDACHABA-CHAIRMAN 2. HON DANLAMI JIYA BRAZIL VICE CHAIRMAN 3. HON. SULE AHMODU SECRETARY MEMBERS 4. BARR. DANGANA OCHEJA 5. DR. EMMANUEL EGU 6. PHARM. ALI JIYA 7. HON. HALIDU USMAN 8. HON. ACHARU OKPANACHI 9. HON. ALHASSAN OGWU ADEJOH (FREEMAN) 10. HAJIA NANA MUSA 11. HON, SALISU SANI OGU 12. HON. ABUH ODOMA 13. HON. ZUWERA IDOWU AMINU 14. HO...

Hon. Ali Keller Hails Gov. Ododo For Appointing NYCN Coordinators As Local Government Special Assistants

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Bashir Opaluwa Idris Senior Special Assistant to Kogi State Governor on Youth Mobilization, Hon. Ali Abdulkadir Arome-Keller has commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for appointing the twenty one Local Government National Youth Council Coordinators as Local Government Special Assistants. Hon. Ali Keller gave the commendation while speaking with newsmen in Lokoja. The SSA said the move is a testament to the Governor's commitment to empowering young people and recognizing their vital role in shaping the future of our communities.     "The National Youth Council of Nigeria has been doing fantastic work, and this appointment is a well-deserved recognition of their efforts. As Local Government Special Assistants, these coordinators will play a crucial role in championing the interests of the youth and working tirelessly to address the challenges they face." While congratulating the newly appointed Coordinators on their well-deserved recognition, Hon. Keller urged them to use t...

Devil Pushed Me To Rape 12-Year-old Girl – 53 Years Old Livestock Dealer

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A 53-year-old man, Bala Osoro, has narrated how he lured and sexually abused a 12-year-old pupil after threatening her with a knife. Osoro, a livestock dealer and resident of Ungwar-Kura street in Lokoja LGA of Kogi State, admitted he raped the minor. “I saw her in front of my house when I called her to help me fetch water from a well. Having fetched the water, I lured her into my room where I had sex with her. The devil lured me into the act. “I am sorry to have engaged in such an act with a little girl, I promise never to repeat such act again, please forgive me,” Osoro said while being paraded by operatives of the Kogi State Vigilante Service. In her narration, the victim’s mother said the girl was sent to buy pepper in the morning but did not return home on time. “I became worried when she did not return home early. I called my stepson and we both went round looking for her because we thought she had been kidnapped. It was during the search that we saw her walking to the house. “I ...

Hon. Mark Okpanachi Ogah Throws Weight Behind Ibaji APC Chairmanship Candidate

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Hon. Mark Okpanachi Ogah, CEO of Anarock Home Limited, is throwing his weight behind the APC candidate for Ibaji LGA Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Ugeh, and his running mate, Hon. Victoria Okolo.  He's urging everyone to sustain the momentum from the successful flag-off of the LGA election campaign and replicate the same enthusiasm during the polls on October 19th, 2024, to ensure the APC emerges triumphant.  Hon. Mark Okpanachi Ogah has been a strong supporter of the APC in Ibaji, previously donating campaign materials to Hon. Emmanuel Ugeh Onuche to boost his candidacy. He's also commended Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo for allocating 50% of the state's fertilizer supply to farmers in Ibaji and Bassa LGAs, demonstrating his commitment to the community's growth.  As the CEO of Anarock Home Limited, Hon. Mark Okpanachi Ogah is known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and empowerment initiatives His dedication to the community and the APC's vision for pro...

Newly Graduated Kogi Medical Doctors Appreciate Former Governor Yahaya Bello for Scholarship Support

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In a heartfelt display of gratitude, a group of newly graduated medical doctors have publicly acknowledged former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, for his role in supporting their medical education through a full scholarship. The medical professionals, who were part of the pioneer group transferred from Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU) to various universities across Nigeria after the loss of accreditation at their initial institution before the emergence of Yahaya Bello, expressed their appreciation for the former governor’s intervention. The graduates, transferred to Ebonyi State University, Kaduna State University, and Usman Danfodio University Sokoto, highlighted the critical support they received from Governor Bello and the Kogi State Government. This included covering all transfer and tuition fees, ensuring they could complete their medical training without financial burden. In a public letter addressed to the former governor, the students stated, “when we faced the...

DR. MUSA SANDRA HAILS FORMER GOVERNOR YAHAYA BELLO'S REVOLUTIONARY STRIDES IN EDUCATION AND HEALTHCARE

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17th September, 2024.  Lokoja, Kogi State.  I commend former Governor Yahaya Bello's trailblazing achievements in education and healthcare. The successful graduation of medical students, who benefited from Governor Bello's scholarship initiative, underscores his commitment. Transferred to esteemed institutions nationwide, these students completed their studies without financial burden, thanks to Governor Bello's foresight. I applaud Governor Bello's transformative leadership, His vision has revitalized Kogi State's healthcare sector. Enhancing infrastructure, constructing hospitals, and delivering quality services demonstrate his unwavering dedication to citizens' well-being. I felicitate with the graduates, encouraging them to make meaningful contributions to Kogi State and beyond. These medical professionals epitomize Governor Bello's vision for a healthier, educated, and prosperous Kogi State, collaborative efforts by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, education...

Kogi NUJ Mourns Passage Of Veteran Journalist

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PRESS RELEASE Kogi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, has described the death of a Veteran journalist, Comrade Matthias Omala as an unfortunate and great loss to the profession. A statement signed by the Chairman of the Council, Alhaji Seidu Ademu Haruna and Secretary, Comrade Olusegun Ayindero-Oyenibi noted that Comrade Matthias Omala has contributed in no great measure to the successes achieved in the Union in the State while in active service. According to the statement, the one-time Vice President of Zone D would be missed for his meaningful impact at the National and State Levels fostering unity, peace and love among members. The statement which described death as the end of all mortals, condole with the immediate family and friends of the deceased and prayed God to grant all the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss of Comrade Matthias Omala as well as grant his soul rest in eternity.

Ajaokuta Stakeholders Passes Vote of Confidence on Gov. Ododo, House of Rep Member, Abdulraheem

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Stakeholders in Ajaokuta Local Government have passed a vote of confidence on Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo and the member  representing Ajaokuta Federal constituency Hon Sanni Egidi Abdulraheem. The All Progressive Congress, (APC) executives in the Local Government led  by it Chairman Hon Yakubu Supa, met with Hon Abdulraheem at his Lokoja residence on Monday. The delegation, comprising 14 ward chairmen and ward secretaries, commended Governor Ododo and Hon Egidi for their remarkable impacts and efforts in fulfilling their campaign promises to the people of Kogi State. In his remarks, the Ajaokuta Chairman, Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, (ALGON)   Hon Yusuf lauded the federal lawmaker and Governor Ododo for their good work in the State. Speaking on behalf of the Secretaries in attendance,  Comrade Abdulhameed Ivavah also applauded Hon. Sanni Egidi Abdulraheem for his empowerment schemes and development projects, citing the recent gi...

HON. ALHAJI ALFA HALILU COMMENDS FORMER GOVERNOR YAHAYA BELLO'S VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AND SCHOLARSHIP SUPPORT FOR MEDICAL STUDENTS

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PRESS STATEMENT  17th September, 2024.  Lokoja, Kogi State.  Hon. Alhaji Alfa Halilu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairmanship Candidate for Idah Local Government, has warmly commended former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, for his exemplary leadership, unwavering commitment to education, and transformative vision for the state's healthcare sector. The newly graduated medical doctors, who benefited from Governor Bello's full scholarship program, have expressed profound gratitude for his timely intervention. The students, transferred to Ebonyi State University, Kaduna State University, and Usman Danfodio University Sokoto, praised Governor Bello's swift action in covering their transfer and tuition fees, ensuring they completed their medical training without financial burden. Hon. Alhaji Alfa Halilu stated, "Governor Bello's dedication to education and healthcare is truly commendable. His support for these medical students demonstrates his passion ...

Sen. Mark Mourns Gen Tete, Describes Him As A Dependable Ally

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A Former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark has lamented over the death of former Defence attaché to Nigeria Embassy in China, Brigadier General B.B. Tete. General Tete was Senator Mark's Adviser on Special Duties during his tenure as President of the Senate of Nigeria. Gen Tete was reported dead after a brief illness at Nigerian Army Hospital in Kaduna last week. Senator Mark in a condolence message to the family of Tete described him as a detribalised ,  dependable and faithful ally who promoted peace and unity  of Nigeria. According to Mark “Gen Tete was not only a brilliant soldier but an accomplished diplomat, teacher and a fine gentleman who was an inspirational mentor to many. “His exceptional commitment and passion for the ideals of nationhood were evident in every assignment he handled within and outside the country. "He left an indelible mark in the minds and hearts of many. “Beyond his military exploits , Gen Tete was known for his kind and gentle nature. H...

HON. ALHAJI ALFA HALILU ATTENDS NAMING CEREMONY OF HON. SALISU OGU SANI'S NEWBORN BABY

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16th September, 2024.  Lokoja, Kogi State.  Hon. Alhaji Alfa Halilu alongside his family and political associates, attended the naming ceremony of the newborn baby of Hon. Salisu Ogu Sani's family on September 14th, 2024. The ceremony, which took place in Lokoja, was a joyous celebration of the new addition to the family. Hon. Alhaji Alfa Halilu's presence added to the festivity and dignity of the event, as he joined other well-wishers to congratulate Hon. Salisu Ogu Sani and his family on the arrival of their newborn baby. This gesture demonstrates Hon. Alhaji Alfa Halilu's commitment to building strong relationships with his colleagues and the community, as well as his support for family values and traditions. Alhaji Alhaji Media Team

Dangote's Translucent Beginning

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BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF It appears the over two decades of suffering by Nigerians to access petroleum products which the country is one of the major producers have just started with Dangote's monopoly of all facets of our national life,w and the pretences of bringing to an end many years of scarcity and energy crisis in the country. Nigeria should not contemplate cutting off importation of the products inspite of the shady deals surrounding the exercise and favouritism prevalent in the system over the decades. The lack of transparency displayed by Dangote Refinery has subsumed the fanfare that came with the commencement of local refining of petroleum products and it's availability aside the ones made available by NNPCL in recent times. The controversies surrounding the inauguration of Dangote Refinery by the immediate past administration of President Muhammadu Buhari was enough sign that the group may not satisfy the aspirations of Nigerians, except the economic prosperity of the org...

EID-EL-MAULUD: HON. ALHAJI ALFA HALILU CALS FOR CONTINUOUS PRAYERS FOR NIGERIA'S WELLBEING, PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE

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16th September, 2024.  Lokoja, Kogi State.  The All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairmanship Candidate for Idah Local Government Area, Hon. Alhaji Alfa Halilu, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of Eid-el-Maulud celebration to offer prayers for the peace, unity, and prosperity of the nation. In a statement on Monday, Hon. Alhaji Alfa Halilu emphasized the importance of spiritual reflection during this period, urging Muslim faithful to pray for Nigeria's overall wellbeing and the continued progress of Idah Local Government. "As we commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), I encourage everyone to reflect on his teachings and pray for our nation's peace, development, and stability," Hon. Alhaji Alfa Halilu said. He also called for tolerance and understanding among all Nigerians, stressing that unity and collective efforts are essential for overcoming the challenges facing the country. "I felicitate with my Muslim brothers and sisters and charge them ...

Eid-El Maulud: Minister of Steel Development Felicitates with Muslims, Urges Nigerians to Emulate the life of Prophet Muhammad

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The Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, has felicitated with Muslim ummahs as they join the rest of the world to commemorate the 2024 Eid-El-Maulud celebration, which signifies the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Prince Audu, in a message signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Lizzy Okoji, on Monday in Abuja, urged Muslim faithfuls and Nigerians to use the opportunity of the holy celebration to reflect on the life, teachings, and principles of Prophet Muhammad. He admonished Nigerians to draw strength from the examples of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and strive to foster a nation of peace, unity, and understanding amongst the diverse folds while continually praying for the President and other leaders in positions of authority. “This significant day, which marks the birth of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), is a time for reflection, gratitude, and the reaffirmation of our shared values of peace, compassion, and unity. “Eid-El-Maulud celebration is...

Eid-il-Mualud: Hon. Acharu Okpanachi Felicitates Muslims, Preaches Love

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Bashir Opaluwa Idris  Kogi State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Acharu Okpanachi has felicitated with Muslims on the celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad. Hon. Acharu in a statement, explained that the Feast of Eid-el-Maulud is a celebration of love and a time to reflect on the Prophet’s teachings on unity, compassion and peace. She enjoined adherents of Islam in the Kogi State to always strive to be their brother’s keeper, show practical love and ensure peaceful co-existence with others. “As you mark the birth of Prophet Muhammad, it is also a time of reflection on his great ideals and teachings on love, unity, compassion and peace. “I urge adherents of the faith to demonstrate practical love, patriotism and ensure peaceful co-existence with others. The principles of good neighbourliness and being a brother’s keeper are best manifested at a season as this. “May this Eid celebration bring greater prosperity and joy to you all and to our state.”

Aguma Bassa To Support BCDU In Promoting Cultural Heritage

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By: Ernest Zhokwo  The Aguma of Bassa, Chief Williams Keke has assured of his support to Bassa Cultural Development Union, BDCU, in promoting the cultural heritage of the Area. Chief Keke gave the assurance when National Executives of Bassa Cultural Development Union paid him a traditional homage at Oguma. The traditional ruler said there was need to promote the cultural heritage of the area so as to attract tourism and development. The Aguma of Bassa called on the BDCU Executives to promote unity among the Bassa people and other tribes in the Country. Earlier, National President of Bassa Cultural Development Union, Chief Peter Tukura said there were in the Aguma’s palace for royal blessing. In their separate speeches, the Clan Head of Edigeshi, Chief Uye Joshua and the Clan Head of Ozongulo Ward, Chief Jonathan Chabani commended Chief Peter Tukura for the visit and pledged the support of traditional rulers of the area to enable him succeed.         Chairma...

Gov. Ododo Reiterates Commitment To Collaborating With Traditional Institution

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Bashir Opaluwa Idris Kogi State Government says it has fortified and equipped forty two transit camps as contingencies for flood. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo stated this in a message to the celebration of this year's Lokoja Day. The Governor who was represented by his deputy, Elder Joel Salifu Oyibo, said the decision is in preparation for any impending flood that is currently affecting other states in the country. He advised those residing at the river bank to relocate to higher ground to avoid being submerge by the impending flood. Governor Ododo commended the Maigeri Lokoja, Alhaji Ibrahim Gambo Maikerfi the fourth for recognizing and bestowing chieftaincy titles on the Speaker of Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt.Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf and six other illustrious sons and daughter of Lokoja. The Governor used the occasion to reiterates his administration's determination to support traditional institution as the closest to the people to fast track peace and unity of the state. Go...

SDGs ; One Year on, Consolidating Drive for 2020-2030 Agenda to Fruition

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BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF The Sustainable Development Goals SDGs , with the global template and transmutation from the Millennium Development Goals MDGs will be eight years old, in line with the UNGA 71 declaration held in 2016. The coincidence of the appointment of Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire to lead the global body in 2016,  along with her recent reappointment in 2023 had demonstrated the domestication and willingness of the extension of the program across board, sub- national in line with its 17 goals to provide succour in all areas to all vulnerable Nigerians . With its domestication , the provision of quality health care, Education through the launch of "Evaluation Report ", poverty reduction , provision of portable water and light across the country through numerous interventions with the cooperation of international agencies, donor agencies, public and private sector advisory group, PSAG, voluntary groups, CSOs among many others had improved the negative consequences, t...

UBEC; Transforming Basic Education Through More Funding

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BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF. The clamour for more funding to Basic Education and by extension Education subsector from both the public and by extension the private sector in the country has began to yield positive results. This was occasioned by the recent upward review and impressive assessment of the matching grants by the sub national to improve Basic Education, Infrastructure, manpower development among many others towards the progress and development of Basic Education in Nigeria. The yearly counterpart funding arrangements between the federal and state government got a 100% increment in 2024 appropriation , from the previous 1.5 Billion in 2023 to the new allocation of impressive 3.5 Billion as the new matching grants to states and FCT. With the new development, states are expected to provide a counterpart funding to the matching grants to the tune of 3.5 Billion to access the whole amount on a yearly basis of over 6 Billion, a very encouraging amount that will support the dearth of improv...