society

Bago: Unveiling A Rare Phenomenon In The Niger

Published

7 months ago

May 5, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Bago: Unveiling A Rare Phenomenon In The Niger

By Okino Jeremiah

Umar Bago has an energetic personality. Though a politician, he is not your everyday breed. He is a departure from the norm and is unafraid to be heard when it matters most. As Governor of Niger State, he has done what others could not do in years. He has changed the face of development in the state. But it came with a price.

Governor Umar Bago represents a dawn in leadership with the manner he had carried on in Niger State. His is a mix of passion, dedication and commitment. He has stayed faithful to his campaign promises of prioritising youth empowerment, quality education, and provision of basic infrastructure that would make life meaningful for the people.

We must agree that it is one thing for politicians to make promises and another for them to be fulfilled. It is an undeniable norm in Nigeria, and why hope seems lost for the ordinary citizens who have taken their destinies into their own hands.

In Nigeria, campaign promises are empty. It is a bane that refuses to go away. But the Governor of Niger State is attempting to change this narrative with his leadership style in the state. His energy has enveloped the entire state. There is only one language that must be learned. The language of work and more work for the benefit of the state.

“For kick-starting the process of transforming his state into what is now termed the “New Niger” through urban renewal, rural transformation, and huge infrastructural investments; for blocking leakages that have saved N10 billion for the state within four months in office, and adopting fiscal responsibility measures to set the state on the path of progress, Mohammed Umaru Bago is Governor of the Year 2023.”

This was how Leadership Newspaper described the Governor of Niger State in recognition as the Governor of the Year at its annual leadership awards in 2023. Were you surprised? A visit to Niger State would kill your curiosity. It is not the state that you used to know. It is now a “New Niger.”

The “New Niger” with a Farmer Governor at the helm of affairs. A first in the annals of the country. The ongoing agricultural revolution in Niger State is phenomenal. The recent partnership between Niger and Lagos States on food security is a worthy example.

The “Produce of Lagos” Initiative is a long-term strategic partnership between Niger and Lagos, where Niger State will produce food items (Paddy, Tubers, Legumes, Grains etc.) and Lagos State will position itself to be a major organised market (off-takers). I am struggling with the correct expression for this partnership. But a few facts will be good enough.

Lagos State is the biggest consumer of agricultural produce in Nigeria with its population, and Niger State has the most extensive arable land in the country. The phenomenon called Umar Bago is getting clearer. If this is not strategic, I don’t know what else to call it.

By location, climate and soil, Niger State is one of the most extensive and fertile agricultural lands in the country, with about 80% of the 74,244 sq. km total land area of the state, and can produce most of Nigeria’s stable crops. Niger has an estimated Fadama area of about 682,331 hectares suitable for lowland rice production, of which only 25% of it has been put to use. Governor Umar Bago understood this when partnering with the Lagos State Government under the “Produce for Lagos” initiative.

The implication on the economy of Niger is left to be imagined. This is what purposeful leadership brings about. Governor Umar Bogo has defied the era of business as usual, in which states depend on monthly allocations from the Federal Government.
To boost the drive for food production in the state, the state government has set in motion the plan to cultivate 250,000 hectares of land, with the long-term goal of cultivating one million hectares in four years. Ask me about innovative leadership, and I will tell you about Governor Umar Bago.

Recently, the Niger State Government, in partnership with a diversified agriculture value chain group, Origin Group, has taken delivery of agricultural equipment to scale up agricultural production and promote national policy on food security. This is another brilliant one indicating that Governor Umar Bago means business.

Other sectors in the state have received equal attention. For example, the Niger State Contributory Health Scheme (NGSCHS) is a health-care financing reform Social Health Insurance Scheme for the provision of affordable, accessible and qualitative health care to Niger State workforce and residents alike on a sustainable basis.

The state also plans to invest a whopping one trillion in infrastructural development. In a bid to transform infrastructure and improve connectivity, the government of Niger State is undertaking a massive urban renewal project, focusing on reconstructing 1,000 kilometres and 400 kilometres of federal roads.

The list is indeed endless. Governor Umar Bago is silently making waves in governance. He has revolutionised critical sectors of the economy of Niger State. And it doesn’t seem he is planning to slow down. This is what leadership entails.

The case of Niger state serves as a worthy example. It is a case where passion meets purpose; the magic happens, goals are achieved, and the impossible becomes possible. What more can I say? Congratulations to Nigerlites.

Okino wrote this piece from FUT Minna.

society

Supreme Court’s validation of EFCC, others, we have been vindicated’ – Oladele

Published

4 hours ago

November 18, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Supreme Court’s validation of EFCC, others, we have been vindicated’ – Oladele

The former Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Financial Crimes, Hon. Kayode Oladele, has lauded the recent Supreme Court judgement dismissing the suit filed by 19 states of the federation challenging the establishment and prosecutorial powers of key anti-corruption agencies of the federal government; the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other related Offenses Commission (ICPC) and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, (NFIU).

The 19 states, led by Kogi State had approached the Apex Court in Nigeria to seek judicial interpretation and judgement on the existence and prosecutorial authority of the anti-corruption agencies in the states stating that a UN Convention against corruption had led to the EFCC Establishment Act and that in enacting this law in 2004, the provision of Section 12 of the Nigerian Constitution was not followed.

However, in a landmark judgment delivered on Friday, November 15, 2024 by a seven-member panel, led by Uwani Abba-Aji, the Supreme Court ruled that the laws establishing the EFCC and other anti-graft agencies were validly enacted by the National Assembly within its legislative competence. The Court, while striking out the case for lack of merit, pronounced as “selfish” the motives of the state governments challenging the establishment of the anti-graft agencies.

In a statement, Oladele stated that the decision of the Supreme Court is a “vindication of our position that Nigeria operates a co-operative federalism as opposed to dual federalism and under the co-operative federalism as practiced in Nigeria, some agencies like the EFCC, ICPC and NFIU are common agencies for both the Federal and State Government and such, the EFCC is qualified as any other authority to institute criminal proceedings under section 174(1)(b) and section 211(1)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended)”.

Oladele also believed that, the decision is another bold step towards enhancing the operational capacities of the anti-graft agencies in Nigeria. It has finally put to rest the desperation by some powerful forces to truncate the federal government’s efforts in fighting and taming the monster of corruption in the country and I have no doubt in my mind that the judgement will further enhance and strengthen the operational capacity of our anti graft agencies”.

“By this judgement, the investigative and prosecutorial powers of EFCC and ICPC over crimes committed at both the states and federal levels have been affirmed and our arguments have been sustained by the Supreme Court”, Oladele added.

It could be recalled that both Mr. Femi Falana, SAN and Hon. Kayode Oladele had locked horns in recent times with and the former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Olisa Agbakoba SAN over the constitutionality of the EFCC. While Mr. Agbakoba had argued in a letter to the National Assembly that
the EFCC was unconstitutionally established as “the powers under which it was established go beyond the powers of the National Assembly” and therefore, should be abolished; both Falana and Oladele had posited that the view expressed by Agbakoba “did not have any legal backing and therefore unsupportable in law and practice, but mere sophistry”.

society

Grace Nation Global: ideas rules the World – Dr Chris Okafor

Published

7 hours ago

November 18, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Grace Nation Global: ideas rules the World – Dr Chris Okafor.

How wealthy you are is determined by the People around you, the kind of People you relate with, also your state of Poverty is also determined by whom you mingled with, therefore Money is not meant to be chased but attracted.

This is the foundation raised today the 17th November 2024 at the Special Anointing of Feet and Money service held at the international Headquarters of Grace Nation world-wide aka Liberation City in Ojodu Berger Lagos Nigeria.

Teaching on the Topic Dimension of wealth through influence and Connections, Senior Pastor Grace Nation Global also known as the Generational Prophet of God Dr Chris Okafor stated clearly that Wealth mindset is built around ideas, when you mindset want to be poor, there is nothing you can do, Poverty will be Evidential in your life but with your determination to make wealth your mindset focus on the people and environment that will Make your dreams comes true, that will be your target.

The clergyman emphasised that when God wants to bless you, he does two things which are spiritual, first, God will connect you with influential people.

God blesses people through connecting them with there helpers of destiny, Mind you, Connection is stronger than contact, when you check your contact but are not connected with the contact, it becomes fruitless effort, but when you are connected Angel called money will be residing in your abode.

Spiritually God sent the Angel called Money to people basically because of their commitment in the vineyard, when you do God’s Wishes, he pays your bills therefore, your ideas and commitment can influence God’s Greatest dimension of wealth in your life, The Generational Prophet of God Dr Chris Okafor remarked.

Special feet washing exercises took place as God servant anointed Money with Prophetic declaration of miracle money to faithful, The Man of God declares that between now and the end of the year many Millionaires will spring up within Grace Nation international citizens.

Different kinds of miracles took place at the service, Deliverance, healing and restoration of Glories, Miracle Babies were also released by Elohim while the Kingdom of God received New Convert, as they give their life to christ,to the Glory of God…

society

The Role of Certificate of Occupancy in Property Valuation Method in Nigeria by Dennis Isong

Published

1 day ago

November 17, 2024

Sahara Weekly

The Role of Certificate of Occupancy in Property Valuation Method in Nigeria by Dennis Isong

In Nigeria’s real estate landscape, property valuation serves as a crucial process that determines the worth of a property for various purposes, including buying, selling, and securing loans. One significant document that plays a pivotal role in this process is the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O). This legal document, issued by the state government, confirms an individual’s right to use and occupy land for a specified period.

Understanding the interplay between the C of O and property valuation is essential for investors, developers, and homeowners alike, as it can significantly influence market perceptions and property prices.

Understanding the Certificate of Occupancy

The Certificate of Occupancy is a legal document that signifies ownership and the right to occupy land. In Nigeria, land ownership is primarily governed by statutory laws, customary laws, and the Land Use Act of 1978, which mandates that all land in urban areas is owned by the government. Thus, the issuance of a C of O is necessary to establish a legal claim over any parcel of land.

Obtaining a C of O is a comprehensive process that involves several steps, including land survey, payment of necessary fees, and completion of relevant documentation. Once issued, the C of O provides security to the landowner by guaranteeing their rights against unlawful eviction or encroachment. This security is a significant factor in property valuation. Properties with a valid C of O are generally seen as more valuable and less risky compared to those without, as the certificate signifies legal recognition and ownership rights.

C of O and Market Perception

The presence of a C of O can significantly influence market perception and the demand for a property. Properties with a valid Certificate of Occupancy are typically viewed as more desirable by potential buyers and investors. This perception stems from the legal security that a C of O provides. Buyers are more likely to invest in properties with a C of O because they have assurance that their rights are protected, and the likelihood of disputes regarding ownership is minimized.

Moreover, lenders and financial institutions often require a C of O before approving loans for property purchases or developments. A valid C of O enhances the credibility of the property, making it easier for buyers to secure financing. This accessibility to finance, in turn, can lead to increased property demand, thereby driving up its valuation. Conversely, properties lacking a C of O may be perceived as risky investments, resulting in lower valuations and reduced buyer interest. Thus, the C of O serves as a critical indicator of a property’s reliability and marketability.

C of O in the Property Valuation Process

In the property valuation process, a valuer considers various factors to determine the value of a property. These factors typically include location, size, condition, and comparable sales in the area. However, the existence of a C of O is often a prominent consideration. During the valuation process, valuers will assess the C of O to ascertain the legal standing of the property. A valid C of O not only confirms ownership but also indicates compliance with local land use regulations, zoning laws, and building codes.

Valuers may also take into account the duration of the C of O. In Nigeria, a C of O is usually granted for 99 years, and this long tenure can positively influence a property’s valuation. The security provided by a long-term C of O assures potential buyers of their rights over the property for an extended period, making it a more attractive investment. Conversely, properties without a C of O, or those with expired or disputed certificates, may be valued lower due to the inherent risks associated with such properties.

Furthermore, a C of O can impact future development potential, which is a crucial aspect of property valuation. Properties with a valid C of O are more likely to receive the necessary approvals for development or alteration, while those without may face legal hurdles. This potential for development can enhance the property’s value, as it indicates future income generation possibilities. Consequently, valuers consider the C of O as a critical factor that influences the overall worth of the property in the market.

Challenges and Implications of C of O in Property Valuation

Despite its importance, the C of O is not without challenges. The process of obtaining a C of O can be lengthy and complex, leading to delays in property transactions. In some cases, disputes over land ownership can arise, particularly in areas where customary land tenure systems are prevalent. These disputes can complicate the valuation process, as properties with contentious C of Os may be difficult to sell and consequently valued lower.

Additionally, the presence of a C of O does not automatically guarantee a problem-free investment. Factors such as environmental issues, development restrictions, or changes in land use policies can affect property value. Valuers must therefore conduct thorough due diligence, considering not only the existence of a C of O but also any associated risks or liabilities.

In conclusion, the Certificate of Occupancy plays a crucial role in property valuation methods in Nigeria. As a legal document that signifies ownership and security, it significantly influences market perception and property demand. Valuers must consider the C of O when assessing a property’s value, as it reflects the legal standing and development potential of the land. However, challenges associated with the C of O, such as ownership disputes and regulatory complexities, must also be navigated to ensure accurate valuations. For stakeholders in the Nigerian real estate market, understanding the importance of the C of O is vital for making informed investment decisions and maximizing property value.

Dennis Isong is a TOP REALTOR IN LAGOS.He Helps Nigerians in Diaspora to Own Property In Lagos Nigeria STRESS-FREE. For Questions WhatsApp/Call 2348164741041