“The terrorists took advantage of the gaps in cooperation between both countries and exploited difficult terrains to make incursions in remote areas in some North Western states to spread their ideology,” he said.
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Lalong apologises to Catholic bishops over comment on Pope
Plateau State Governor and Director-General of the Presidential Campaign team All Progressives Congress, Simon Lalong, has apologised to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria over his unpopular statement to the Holy Father, Pope Francis.
Lalong, while reacting to his recent appointment by the ruling APC to spearhead the presidential campaign of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu said Pope had not disapproved his support for a Muslim-Muslim ticket.
His statement had attracted heavy criticisms from Catholic faithful across the country, with some calling for his suspension from the church.
Lalong’s apology was contained in a letter addressed to the President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, dated August 12.
In the letter, the Plateau governor said he realised that his comment had brought “embarrassment” to the Catholic Church, especially to the family of Papal Knights.
The letter read in part, “I have followed with some shock and deep regret, the reactions that have trailed my appointment as the Director-General of the Campaign Council for the Presidential Candidates of our Party, the All Progressive Congress, APC, Ahmed Bola Tinubu and Ibrahim Shettima,” the letter reads.
“The appointment understandably was received with mixed reactions across the Christian community who genuinely feel aggrieved by the decision of our party to settle for a Muslim-Muslim ticket.
“While many people commended me for the appointment and saw it as a way of remaining within the system to fight for our interests, others cast aspersions on it on the grounds that our faith had been insulted and denigrated.
“In the course of this, many of my opponents turned the issue into a political weapon with some spreading rumours and questioning the integrity of my credentials as a Catholic and a Papal Knight. In trying to make my case, I have granted interviews to justify why I believe that the appointment did not in any way undermine my commitment to the Catholic Church.
“During the week, in the course of defending myself, I had cause to make reference to my credentials as a Catholic and a Papal Knight. In the process, I made reference to the Holy Father.
“I now realise that this was an error on my part and has caused some level of concern and even embarrassment to many especially the Members of the family of Papal Knights to which I belong.
“I now understand that I may have overreached myself in the course of trying to defend my personal decision in accepting this appointment and thus, the reference to the holy father was not intended as an act of disrespect to his exalted and revered office.
“Your Grace, by this written letter, I wish to tender my unreserved apologies and ask for their understanding and forgiveness from my brothers in the Catholic faith and, through you, the entire members of the Bishops’ Conference, our Fathers and our Leaders. My commitment to the Catholic faith to which | belong remains unreserved and undiluted.
“I will continue to uphold the banner of my faith in public life as I have done over the years. You may recall, Your Grace that in the last five or so years, I have been at the forefront of facilitating our dialogue as politicians with you our fathers in the faith. I remain committed to this and pray that you will continue to encourage us as we ascend the slippery slope of politics. While soliciting your episcopal blessings.”
metro
New terror group now operating in Kebbi, Sokoto – Defence HQ
New terror group now operating in Kebbi, Sokoto – Defence HQ
The Nigerian Military has said that a new terror group has been identified in the country.
The Defence Headquarters on Thursday morning said the group is in operation in Kebbi and Sokoto States.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, revealed that this group is affiliated with jihadi organizations in Mali and Niger.
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The emergence of this new terror group is attributed to the political instability in Mali and Niger, which has led to a spill-over effect in Nigeria’s northwestern region.
New terror group now operating in Kebbi, Sokoto – Defence HQ
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A Life of Impact: Celebrating Alhaja Fausat Fadeke Atoke Bankole
A Life of Impact: Celebrating Alhaja Fausat Fadeke Atoke Bankole
BY SAKA GBEMINIYI
Alhaja Fausat Fadeke Atoke Bankole, a remarkable woman, left an indelible mark on the lives of those who knew her. Although she may not have had formal education, her wisdom, kindness, and entrepreneurial spirit inspired countless individuals.
Her passing leaves a void, but her legacy endures.
Born into a humble family, Alhaja Fausat’s determination and resilience shaped her future. She started very early in life as she ventured into business, leveraging her natural talent for herbal remedies.
Her expertise in traditional medicine earned her respect and recognition within her community.
As a recognition of her commitment to her profession, she was in 2019 honoured as APESIN of Alagbo of Ibadanland by her professional body.
Her successful business acumen provided for her family and created endless opportunities for others.
Alhaja Fausat’s commitment to community service was unwavering. As a dedicated member of the Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria, she actively participated in various charitable initiatives.
Her selflessness and generosity inspired others to follow suit. She provided support to the less fortunate, offering guidance, shelter, and financial assistance whenever needed.
And as a mark of honour, the Oyo State chapter of Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria took over her burial and ensured that all Islamic injunctions pertaining to burial were dutifully carried out.
As a mother, her greatest joy was her family. She leaves behind a loving husband, Alhaji Abdu Waheed Bankole and children among whom are Mogaji (Alhaji) Abdu Akeem Adewale Bankole, Mr Sharafadeen Adebayo Bankole, Mrs. Ahmad Amidat Olaide and Mrs. Rufai Rukayat Adeola. Her grandchildren affectionately called her Grandma or Iya Agbo.
Her death will for very long time remained a mystery to some of her acquaintances as nobody expected her to leave at the time left.
Alhaja Fausat passed away at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan after a brief illness surrounded by loved ones and family members (both nuclear and extended).
The outpouring of love and respect was evident during the 8th day Fidau prayers, held at Aweni Arena, Oke-Ado, Ibadan.
Hundreds of people gathered to pay their respects, sharing stories of Alhaja Fausat’s kindness, generosity, and impact.
Those who knew Alhaja Fausat described her as a pillar of strength, wisdom and a generous benefactor to her community.
Her legacy extends beyond her immediate family. She touched the lives of countless individuals through her business, community service, and kindness.
Alhaja Fausat Fadeke Atoke Bankole’s life serves as a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and compassion.
Rest in peace, Alhaja Fausat Fadeke Atoke Bankole. Your life was a blessing to many, and your memory will continue to inspire generations to come.
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NAJA commended, holds training on CNG initiative Thursday
NAJA commended, holds training on CNG initiative Thursday
The Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) will this Thursday October 31, 2024 holds a training/capacity building workshop on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative fuel for vehicles in Nigeria.
Already, key stakeholders in the Nigerian automobile industry have commended the association for its initiative to organise the workshop.
The one-day training is slated for Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) building, Ikeja, under the theme: CNG/LPG/EV Initiative: Challenges, Sustainability, Opportunities, Alternative to Fossil Fuels in Nigeria’.
Some of the industry stakeholders said NAJA was showing the lead in the auto industry by propagating the government’s initiative, which they noted would bring succour to motorists and Nigerians in general.
Managing Director, Jet Systems Limited, Mr. Derek Ewelukwa, said the training and capacity building on the CNG initiative was timely.
He spoke in an interaction with the training committee, saying that by holding the workshop, NAJA was taking an important step in helping the public and key stakeholders to better understand the government’s CNG initiative.
He insisted that auto journalists as a vehicle of information dissemination and a channel of enlightenment, play a critical role in breaking down complex issues like the CNG initiative, stressing that through this platform, the media was helping to promote greater awareness and acceptance of cleaner energy options.
He enjoined other beat associations to emulate NAJA in propagating government schemes.
Ewelukwa said, “We want the public to understand the benefits of transitioning to CNG, as an alternative fuel to petrol and diesel, particularly in terms of cost savings, environmental impact, and energy sustainability.
“A key part of our participation, we will focus on addressing safety concerns and skepticism about the use of CNG, especially with fears surrounding gas explosions and/or fires.
“We will aim to educate and clarify that CNG systems are rigorously tested and designed with strict safety standards, making them a safe and reliable alternative.”
In his comment, Operations Manager, Mikano Motors, Mr. Syam Abdul-Kadir, said that the training would further bring to the fore necessary steps required by all; government, stakeholders and the public to make the new initiative work.
Abdul-Kadir also lauded the leadership of NAJA and its members for embracing the initiative, stressing that it would go a long way in boosting its public acceptance.
He maintained that as a new development, sensitising and educating the public with accurate and factual information was key.
He posited that by sharing the facts and statistics with the public, the company also intended to prevent a widespread fear of the unknown and provide them with renewed hope for a better Nigeria.
He added, “everybody is a stakeholder, whether you choose to use CNG powered vehicles or not, the CNG initiative on transportation will support the ease-of-doing business. It also has less emissions than fuel, so everyone is impacted”.
“It is critical to emphasize that all stakeholders need to be aware that the correct certifications and adherence to global standards for CNG use must be implemented. From the appropriate certified tanks and parts to the correct standards for dispensing, the goal is to encourage the use of CNG vehicles correctly.”
Chairman of the 2024 Annual Training/Capacity Building Workshop Committee, Adrian Egonu, said through the training in the past, many members of the auto journalists’ association had enhanced their knowledge base of the industry.
He explained that NAJA was intentional with the 2024 theme, noting that the Federal Government in the last 16 months had taken some giant steps to promote Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Electric Vehicles (EV), in line with global best practices for cleaner burning automotive fuels.
Egonu said that the 2024 edition would further ensure improved knowledge and skills of the journalists and commended sponsors for partnering with the association in its drive to contribute to the auto industry not just in Nigeria, but around the world.
He declared that the training would afford industry investors and sponsors the opportunity to showcase their products and reach a wider audience.
Chairman NAJA, Mike Ochonma, in his comment, commended the sponsors and partners for associating with NAJA.
He stressed that NAJA as the fourth estate of the realm would continue to play its critical roles of information, education and opinion molding without bias.
Other industry leaders that have confirmed participation include, the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), C
FAO Mobility, Fixit45 Limited and Pi-CNG.
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