The Coalition For Peter Obi (CPO) has strongly urge the Party National Working Committee of Labour Party (LP) to ensure the unimpeded inclusion of all willing and committed members in the upcoming congresses.
This was contained in an open letter addressed to Comr. Julius Abure (Esq.), The National Chairman of Labour Party (LP).
The undersigned Coalition of Peter Obi (CPO), a stakeholder in the Obidient movement, led by the Barr. Joshua Ebighiebi, stands as steadfast supporters of the Labour Party.
The coalition are steadfast in their commitment to Peter Obi and Datti Ahmed’s goal of reconstructing Nigeria. As the National Chairman of the Labour Party, they humbly submit this appeal after the Obidient’s online meeting on March 21, 2024.
The National Coordinator of the Coalition , Barr. Joshua Ebighiebi strongly urge the Party National Working Committee to ensure the unimpeded inclusion of all willing and committed members in the upcoming congresses. To achieve this goal, the coalition recommend that the congresses commence from the grassroots level, starting with the wards, progressing to the Local Government Areas (LGAs), and culminating at the state level.
“We believe that this strategic approach will empower party members to actively participate in the selection of their representatives for the National Convention, ensuring a collective and inclusive approach to decision-making processes”
The coalition further recommends establishing explicit mandates for the Screening and Electoral Committees and disclosing their specifics to the public. The electoral process’s credibility depends on increased accountability and openness, both of which will be improved by this strategy.
With a focus on openness and democratic principles, we provide a forum where all members can express their thoughts and help to shape the party’s future. For the party to be strong and advance towards common objectives, inclusivity and grassroots involvement are essential.
The coalition appreciate the National Chairman’s consideration of these recommendations, which we believe will benefit the Labour Party. We look forward to positive reforms that will strengthen the party’s internal democracy and advance its goals.
In a bid to enhance the growth and development of small businesses in the state and its environs, The Honorable Commissioner, Ministry for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Plateau State, Chief Ephraim Usman has made significant contributions towards establishing alliances with community organizations and non profits to support under-represented and marginalized entrepreneurs in Plateau state.
Chief Ephraim Usman disclosed this at A One Day Stakeholders and Entrepreneurship Meeting for small businesses in Plateau State held at Crispan suites and event center in Rayfield, Jos, Plateau State.
While addressing the stakeholders and entrepreneurs, Chief Usman explained that 48% of the Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is from Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and over 84% of jobs are created in the Small Entrepreneurship.
“According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in 2023, SMEs employ large proportion of the workforce and they account for 96% of businesses across the Nigeria’s economy. This means that the informal sector where these small and medium businesses exist must be properly engaged and utilized by the government in order to bring about significant improvement in the wellbeing of our people. Apart from creating employment and raising the standard of living of our people, small entrepreneurs are catalysts, for absorbing social shocks and acceleration of poverty reduction mechanism from the community levels” Chief Usman disclosed.
“In Plateau state, the relevance of small and medium enterprises for the growth and development of our people especially from the community and/or rural areas is of utmost concern to His Excellency, the captain of the “Time is Now” administration, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang. It is thus the priority of the government to address poverty, unemployment and social vices amongst the population through constructive re-engineering of the state’s economy”
“Infrastructure that support small and medium businesses are being fixed; conflicts that hitherto threatened businesses including agro-sector enterprises are being addressed; while major re-organizations in the transportation and entrepreneurship sectors are becoming part of key indicators in the policy direction of the government in addressing socio-economic challenges of the people in the state” Chief Usman revealed.
“Government is aware that there are under-represented and marginalized entrepreneurs across the 17 local governments. These are vulnerable groups such as women, minorities and individuals from low income backgrounds, who are involved in one small business to the other. But one of the questions that this engagement and discussions must address is: How can we establish alliances with community organizations and non-profits to support the under-represented and marginalized entrepreneurs on the Plateau? As a government, we are poised via the 7 point agenda of H.E., the governor to address the challenges associated with the business environment and focus towards improving ease of doing businesses on the Plateau”
Therefore, this keynote focuses on:
1. Underscoring the Context of SMEs, Community Organizations and Non-profits in Plateau state.
2. Overview on Marginalized and Under-represented Entrepreneurs.
3. Establishing Alliances with Community Organizations and Non-Profits to support entrepreneurs.
4. Roles of Government.
5. Challenges.
6. The Way Forward.
CONTEXT OF SMES, COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS AND NON-PROFITS IN PLATEAU STATE
SMEs
There are several Small and Medium Enterprises in Plateau state. The classification of these enterprises into small, medium and large scale is relative and varies from country to country. However, the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), 2020 defines a small company as:
“a private company having an annual turnover and net assets value of not more than N120,000,000 and N60,000,000 respectively, it has no foreigner as its member and where the company has a share capital, the director hold at least 51% of the share capital”.
But the above definition has been adjudged to be in variance with the one provided by the Finance Act, 2019 an amendment were made in 2020 Finance Act mostly for the purpose of annual returns and taxation.
However, the context of this engagement and for the purpose of clarity, the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) on the Plateau, herein referred to as the marginalized and under-represented cuts across low capital enterprises ranging between capital base of N10,000 – N500,000. This figure represents what most of the businesses get as small start-ups from national empowerment schemes in Nigeria. This is also an opinion that stems from results of empirical findings from a study on “small businesses and impact of selected businesses on Plateau state” (Yakubu, 2023). These businesses are characterized by the following:
(a) Low capital base ranging between N10,000 – N500,000.
(b) Ownership is by individuals or family.
(c) Source of capital is usually savings, borrowing and inheritance.
(d) It is often informal devoid of hierarchy, rules and regulations, record keeping and so on.
Community Organizations and Non-Profits: These are simply community based organizations aimed at making desired improvements to a community’s well-being such as health, education, agriculture, religions, and business endeavours.
They include the following on the Plateau:
– Community work and prospects such as the ones by the Community and Social Development Projects (CSDP) supported by World Bank, UNESCO, USAID and so on.
– Community development organizations such as local NGOs and corporations.
– Community empowerment such as faith based organizations.
– Community mobilization
Examples also cut across church groups, youth groups, community support groups, spirited foundations, advocacy groups, etc.
The primary function of community organizations is to organize, mobilize and educate people to build a sense of community. By doing so, the community gains power or influence over issues concerning their welfare.
By extension, the community organizations are non-profits. This indicates that despite the fact that community organizations are private or non-governmental organizations, the prime goal is not to make profit but to provide services to the communities such as building of primary health care facility, provisions of business training and start-up packs, undertaking agro-extension services, building market stalls, conducting business surveys and consultancy for small businesses, providing inputs to farmers and so on.
WHO ARE THE ENTREPRENEURS DESCRIBED AS MARGINALIZED AND UNDER-REPRESENTED
An entrepreneur is simply a person who sets up a business or in some cases businesses taking on financial risks in the hope of profit making. There are many of them in our markets, homes, street corners, communities, road sides, offices and so on. These people doing their legitimate businesses are either not represented, under-represented or marginalized when it comes to the following:
1. Access to loans or capital to expand and grow their business.
2. Training and capacity building to improve on their business.
3. Access to markets, stores, shops and space to display their goods/services within the community markets.
4. Access to governments’ palliatives to cushion harsh economic changes.
5. Raw materials and inputs for their business.
6. Marketing boards or cooperatives to sell their goods and services without the exploitation of middlemen.
7. Storage facilities particularly for perishable items.
8. Security and safety of lives and properties.
9. Basic market facilities such as water, toilets, access roads, security outpost, parking spaces and first aids/health facilities amongst others.
It must be noted that as a Ministry that is directly working with traditional rulers, local governments and by extension, the communities, I am aware of the critical challenges confronting businesses in our rural markets. The yam market in Bakin Chiyawa, Doka and other Yam producing communities in Qua’anpan or the potatoes, cabbage, carrots, berries, cucumber, rice, maize, millet, cassava, sugarcane, guinea corn, groundnuts, beans, or even the local Tarok yam called “Turret” are all agro-produced within the chain of businesses on the Plateau where those who actually produced them do not have a voice of their own. Secondary and tertiary businesses in Amper markets, Dengi, Pankshin Monday market, Terminus general areas in Jos, Bukuru market, Angware, Jengre, Ampang West, Dyis Abwor, Garkawa market, Building materials market, Farin Gada market, Dilimi and all across the state have entrepreneurs whose under-representation in the above mentioned areas constitutes cumulative challenge to their existence in the markets.
On the other hand, permit me to also acknowledge many youths and women who are doing legitimate businesses like bakers, fashion designers, musicians/entertainers, bloggers, content creators, she/footwear makers, stylists, etc. A lot of them do not have access to the items mentioned in this paper, hence could be adjudged as “marginalized” with low income backgrounds.
ESTABLISHING ALLIANCES WITH COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS AND NON PROFITS
Alliances are simply a union or association formed for mutual benefit. They are also a relationship based on similarity of interests, nature and qualities amongst entrepreneurs. The benefits of establishing alliances with community organizations and non-profits are vast and indispensable.
First, alliances could bring about business support, in terms of access to loans, and entrepreneurial empowerment.
Secondly, establishing alliances will be a sure way to organize businesses into corporations for the purpose of accessing government intervention programmes for entrepreneurs.
Again, community projects such as market stalls, stores, warehouses, security, access roads, mobility of goods from farm to markets, and other facilities are better achieved through alliances.
Moreso, market monopolists would be easily regulated through alliances between community organizations and enterpreneurs. This can open up healthy competition amongst businesses.
Veteran Nigerian rapper Terry Tha Rapman has chastised musician Wizkid for his current tendency of “killing” genres with his words.
According to Clusterchannel, Wizkid has come under fire for denouncing Afrobeats in a recent social media post, claiming that he cannot be classified into a single category.
Terry Tha Rapman responded on the X platform, recalling how Wizkid “killed” rap with his declaration that “rap is dead” and has now “killed” Afrobeats with his new rant.
Terry Tha Rapman stated, “First rap, now Afrobeats. How many genres Wizkid wan kill? Highlife, run o!” warns Highlife artists about Wizkid, implying that it may be his next target.
Nigerian music sensation, Davido has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding Afrobeats and R&B, shedding light on the nuanced differences between the two genres.
This comes after fellow artist, Wizkid’s reluctance to be labeled solely as an Afrobeats artist.
A throwback video of Davido resurfaced online today, Sunday, March 17, 2024, capturing the artist articulating his perspective on the matter.
When asked to differentiate between R&B and Afrobeats, Davido pointed out notable R&B singers like Johnny Drille, Chike and Banky W, asserting that some of his own tracks fall within the R&B spectrum. Contrary to common misconceptions, Davido clarified that Afrobeats is not a style of music, rather is used to describe African musicians.
He explained the cultural essence embedded within Afrobeats, emphasizing its roots in African musical traditions. Highlighting the evolving nature of Afrobeats, Davido mentioned Odumodublvck, an African-born hip-hop artist who, despite primarily producing drill music, is categorized under the Afrobeats umbrella.
He further attributed the original sound of Afrobeats to the legendary Fela Kuti, tracing its origins back to his pioneering contributions.
As the global acclaim for Afrobeats continues to soar, Davido’s words serve as a testament to the genre’s dynamic evolution and enduring cultural significance.
The Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, (NMGS) has asked that potentials in the mining sector be adequately harnessed to engage young people in businesses, boost the nation’s economy and create wealth as allowing the sector to be operated in the crude form is a minus to the revenue generation drive of governments.
The President of NMGS, Professor Akinade Olatunji made the plea ahead of the Society’s 59th Annual International Conference and Exhibition, AICE which is scheduled to take place in Jos, Plateau State from the 17th to the 22nd of March, 2024 with the theme: “Emerging Global Perspectives, Trends and Sustainable Development of Minerals and Energy Resources.”
Professor Olatunji who spoke with journalists in Jos on Friday reiterated that indiscriminate mining activities is robbing the country of the much needed resources and called for the repositioning of the sector with relevant personnel and technology so the country could reap the gains embedded in coordinated mining activities.
He also called for the immediate address of the activities of the illegal miners through the strengthening and implementation of relevant laws.
According to him, “… There’s a difference between illegal mining and artisanal mining. Illegal mining is any mining done contrary to the prescribed laws of the land. It could be small scale, it could be medium scale. It could be large scale. Artisanal miners use crude implements.
“Addressing the issue of illegal mining is a national and international problem globally, anywhere you have mining activities there are always scavengers lurking around. In Nigeria, we have the law and it is very clear. The law must be implemented… We have said that one of the weak points that prevents the enforcing the law is the lack of adequate manpower. If the government will first strengthen the manpower, train the manpower and give them the mobility to be able to move, things would improve.
“We should stop paying lip service to this but put our money where our mouth is by investing heavily in retooling and equipping the Mining Inspectorate offices. We have so many people without jobs, if the government brings them on board, it will improve the mining sector and will stop these illegal activities because government is losing a lot money on a daily basis across the country. The government needs to employ technology to monitor the sector.”
He revealed that the event has other sub-themes as Unlocking the wealth creation potentials of the artisanal and small-scale mining subsector through innovative implementation of a robust governance structure; opportunities and challenges of renewable energy potentials in Nigeria; management of Nigerian water resources and flood vulnerability; geosciences perspectives to incessant road and building collapse in Nigeria; medical geology, geo-tourism and geo-heritage as new geoscience frontiers of wealth creation, among others and would feature paper presentations, excursion, quiz competition and others.
Chocolate City Music Group are thrilled to announce the latest addition to our stellar line up of talents, the dynamic and talented artist Tariq Oluokun a.k.a Tar1q. This unveiling marks a significant journey for both Tar1q and Chocolate City as we embark on an exciting journey together, pushing the boundaries of creativity and musical innovation.
Tar1q’s evolution from being a trap rapper to a versatile artist, seamlessly weaving together contemporary Afrobeats, Pop, Hip-Hop and classic R&B, is showcased in his unique musical style, self- coined as “Afro-Rhythm”. Drawing inspiration from icons like Sade, Kwam1, Wizkid, J.Cole and Davido, Tar1q was discovered by Chocolate City in 2021 and swiftly signed to Nu Trybe Records as an incubator artist under the Chocolate City umbrella.
Tar1q brings a fresh perspective to the music scene, efortlessly blending genres and delivering profound lyrics. The synergy between Tar1q’s artistic vision and Chocolate City’s commitment to innovation sets the stage for an exciting chapter in the world of music.
The stage is set, the world is ready and Tar1q is perfectly positioned to dominate the industry. Stay tuned for the electrifying releases he has that promises to redefine the music landscape.
Alhaji Ibrahim Ejibade, a citizen of Jos North local government area in Plateau State and a resident of William Street, has passed away. He was the one who accused Mr. Norah Kekere of kidney theft at Murna Clinic and Maternity, Jos.
The late Ejibade’s family claims that since his hernia surgery in 2021, which was done by Mr. Kekere, he has struggled with an unstable health status.
The late Ejibade accused Mr. Kekere of removing his right kidney in September of last year. Mr. Kekere was then taken into custody after a report of Mrs. Kehinde Kamal’s right kidney being removed during a procedure in 2018 was filed at the Nasarawa Gwom Police Division.
Later, the Plateau State Ministry of Justice sued Mr. Kekere in state supreme court on behalf of Ejibade and Kehinde Kamal, who had also accused the same doctor of harvesting organs.
Confirming the death, Ejibade’s son, Muhammad Sani, said their father passed on on Wednesday evening and had since been buried according to Islamic rites.
“Baba’s illness continued unabated since his surgery at Murna Clinic. You know, we discovered that his left kidney was removed when we went to Jos University Teaching Hospital for scanning following the surgery by Mr Kekere, and the matter is still pending in court,” Sani said.
He added by saying that despite his declining health, Ejibade was able to show up for the court hearings even on the final postponed date.
According to our correspondent, Mr. Noah Kekere and his two suspected collaborators, Dr. Philip Dachung and Yusuf Abduallahi, a staff member of the Murna Clinic, are currently awaiting trial and have been given bail.
The first edition of Nigeria Teens Blog on the Plateau to kickstart at the Prestigious Aliyu Akwe Doma Indoor Theatre, University of Jos on Saturday the 13th of April, 2024.
Nigeria Teens Blog is one of the biggest campus entertainment show organized by Space Boyz Entertainment, to hold live across Plateau State’s campuses.
This prestigious event to tour round Campuses ranging from University of Jos, National Film Institute, Plateau State Polytechnic, Plateau State University and National Television Authority, (NTA) College.
It Promises to be a fun-fair event, featuring Music, Dance, Comedy and Cypher.
On March 22, 2024, Nigerian musician Candy Bleakz will release her eight-track EP.
Rapper and street pop artist Akiode Blessing Mariam, better known by her stage name Candy Bleakz, began her career as the sole female member of the now-defunct Yoruba hip-hop group Street Billionaires. She became the first and only female artist to appear on the first Turntable “Street Pop Singles” list thanks to her successful tune “Tikuku.”
Later in March, the musician will release her eight-track EP. The street pop, rapper, and composer from Nigeria is presently signed to a record deal with Chocolate City Music. The EP will feature her most recent track, Wale, with Afrobeat musician Simi.
🚨Candy Bleakz will release her new 8-track EP “Better Days” on Friday, March 22. 🐉📀
Rexxie produced her previous EP. She was the cover star for Apple Music Africa’s March issue in addition to her upcoming EP. She was named 2024’s first cover star.
A moving homage to their late son Ifeanyi, given by Davido and his wife Chioma Adeleke, was brought to light during a recent dinner excursion.
Chioma, also known as “Chef Chi,” was seen wearing a diamond pendant made in memory of their cherished son Ifeanyi, who unfortunately died in 2022, in a video that went viral online on Saturday, March 9, 2024.
A pendant that showed how much Davido loved his kid was worn around Chioma’s neck while she ate in style while wearing a black outfit. The pair conversed with their pals, and Davido got up to make a moving toast that highlighted the closeness of their group.
In the middle of their private celebration, the pendant’s presence acted as a poignant reminder of the unwavering love and priceless memories Davido and Chioma had for their late son, Ifeanyi.
Member representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi PhD, OON, has continued to enjoy overwhelming support from...
