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Negotiations Stall as FG, Labour congress to meet Today by 7pm

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By Adejuyigbe olorunfemi

It was to no avail yesterday as the negotiation between the Federal Government and Labour congress was stalled as agreement to implement the new minimum wage was not reached, even as both sides agreed to continue negotiations on the consequential adjustment of salaries for workers on Thursday, Saharaweeklyng.com reports
The meeting lasted eight hours, which began by 5pm and ended at 2am on Thursday. Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Ngige, told journalists that both bodies have consented to meet by 7pm today.
The  Labour congress was led into Wednesday’s meeting by the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Ayuba Wabba, President of the Trade Union Congress, Comrade Quadri Olaleye, former president of TUC, Bobboi Kaigama, NLC Deputy President, Comrade Amaechi Asogwuni,  Chairman Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council, Simon Achaver, NLC’s General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugbaoja, JNPSNC Secretary, Alade Lawal, President of Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, Ibrahim Khaleel, and JNPSNC member, Lawrence Amaechi.
The government team had Head of Service of the Federation, Dr. Folashade Yemi- Esan, Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Ngige, Minister of State and Employment, Festus Keyamo and the Acting Chairman, National Salaries Income and Wages Commission, Ekpo Nta n other government officials.
The minister said that the meeting was adjourned to finalize some matters that was left unattended to. 
He said that assignments has been delegated to some certain people on both sides, with the committee expecting a feedback from them.
On Wednesday, both parties failed to disclosed details of the areas they had agreed on to journalists.
The minister said: “As you can see, we met and broke into committees, we come back, we finally agreed on so many areas which hitherto we could not agree on and we are adjourning the meeting. We have given assignments to some people on both sides and we will go and do the work and get back to us. The work involved is enormous. We are giving them the entire day to get back to us.
“Issues of money and wage adjustments as per different wage structures; we have about 12 wage structures presently in Nigeria which you know of. We don’t want to make mistakes that could be fatal and thereby put the whole exercise we have done in jeopardy.
“Therefore, we have consensually agreed that we reconvene this meeting at 7pm today. This will enable those that we have given assignments to complete the assignments and bring them back to us.
“We are very okay with the meeting. It is moving on smoothly and as you can see from here there is conviviality, it is very cordial, nobody is fighting. We disagreed about some ares but we have agreed back. That is the important thing. Let the work continue.”
NLC President, Wabba said that some progress had been made but added that an agreement he not been reached.
Speaking to Journalists,  he said: “It is the Collective Bargaining Process that has actually lasted this long. Some progress has been made but we have not been able to conclude and then have a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and some committees need to do some computation. You can see that they have worked up to early hours of today. That is in the true spirit of collective bargaining. It is give no take and that is what we are trying to do to get the whole process concluded and put very thing behind all of us.
“In collective bargaining, if a meeting is adjourned, you should know that that is not our practice. Our practice is that until we are able to conclude the issues and we are able to inform them (Nigerians)
appropriately but not midway when we are making progress. We cannot abruptly disrupt the process. At the appropriate time we should be able to give details.
“We cannot speak on the percentage until we finish the negotiation. The matters under consideration are implementation and consequential adjustment.
“That is mere speculation. We should work on the basis of information that is credible.”

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Housing Minister Dangiwa Highlights Gains Under His watch

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Housing Minister Dangiwa Highlights Gains Under His watch

 

*Over 252,000 jobs created under housing programmes
*10,000 houses under construction
*President Tinubu’s vision for housing & urban development commendable
*Our goal is to build at least one Renewed Hope City in each geopolitical zone

 

With over 252,000 jobs created and 10,000 houses undergoing construction, HM Housing, Arc Dangiwa Highlights Progress in Housing and Urban Development at State House Meet The Press Programme

Housing Minister Dangiwa Highlights Gains Under His watch

18 November 2024, Abuja – The Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, delivered a compelling presentation today at the State House Press Gallery, outlining the Ministry’s achievements under the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The Minister detailed a comprehensive range of initiatives aimed at reducing Nigeria’s housing deficit, driving economic growth, and improving the lives of millions of citizens, reflecting a clear commitment to an inclusive vision for the nation’s housing sector.

Opening his presentation, Minister Dangiwa underscored the leadership role of President Tinubu, whose vision and support have empowered the Ministry to focus exclusively on housing and urban development. “Everything starts with good leadership. When the vision is clear and there is an unwavering commitment to serve, great things happen,” he stated. “Under the leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we have been entrusted with the monumental task of implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda, a mission to provide accessible and affordable housing for every Nigerian while catalyzing economic growth.”

A cornerstone of the Ministry’s efforts is the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme, which spans 14 active construction sites across Nigeria. This initiative is delivering over 10,000 housing units in various locations, ensuring an equitable distribution of projects across the six geo-political zones. The Renewed Hope Estates comprise twelve estates, each with 250 housing units, while larger urban projects, branded as Renewed Hope Cities, are underway in the Federal Capital Territory, Kano, and Lagos, with further expansion planned for other states. “Our goal is clear: to build at least one Renewed Hope City in each geo-political zone, bringing homes closer to those who need them most,” the Minister added.

Minister Dangiwa also highlighted the economic impact of the housing programme, emphasizing job creation as a critical outcome. “At an average of 25 jobs per housing unit, we have directly and indirectly created over 252,800 jobs across the country,” he explained. “From architects, engineers, and surveyors to masons, carpenters, plumbers, and general labourers, the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme is revitalizing communities and providing meaningful employment opportunities.” He noted that daily wages for workers average ₦5,000, enabling many to earn monthly incomes well above the national minimum wage, which contributes to economic stability and reduces crime.

Central to the Ministry’s strategy is the development of innovative homeownership options designed to make housing accessible for all Nigerians. Through the National Housing Fund (NHF), administered by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), citizens can access loans of up to ₦50 million at a highly competitive 6% interest rate, with a repayment period of up to 30 years. This initiative offers a lower equity requirement compared to commercial banks, making homeownership more attainable. The Ministry has also introduced a Rent-to-Own scheme, enabling contributors to move into homes while gradually paying for ownership over three decades without an initial equity contribution. Minister Dangiwa stressed the importance of affordability and accessibility, describing these initiatives as “life-changing pathways to homeownership.”

To ensure a transparent and streamlined process, the Ministry has launched the Renewed Hope Online Housing Delivery Portal. This platform allows citizens to explore, apply for, and secure housing units conveniently. “It is a one-stop shop for homeownership,” said the Minister. “With over 47,605 registered users and more than 1,000 applications completed, this platform revolutionizes housing accessibility, removing the need for lobbying or backdoor negotiations.”

Acknowledging the financial challenges inherent in housing development, Minister Dangiwa outlined a multi-faceted funding strategy. Budgetary allocations have been complemented by public-private partnerships (PPPs) and international collaborations. The Renewed Hope Estates are being funded with a ₦50 billion allocation from the 2023 supplementary budget, with an additional ₦27.2 billion earmarked for 2024. Meanwhile, PPPs have attracted over ₦40 billion in financing for projects such as the Karsana Renewed Hope City, backed by a ₦100 billion Bankable Offtaker Guarantee from the FMBN.

However, the Minister recognized that the scale of Nigeria’s housing deficit, estimated at 550,000 units per year, necessitates increased budgetary support. “Our advocacy for a minimum annual housing budget of ₦500 billion starting in 2025 has gained the support of the National Assembly,” he revealed. This increased funding would enable the Ministry to expand housing projects and increase unit counts in various states, furthering the Renewed Hope Agenda’s reach.

Beyond housing construction, the Ministry has made strides in land administration reforms, slum upgrading, and the establishment of building materials manufacturing hubs to reduce construction costs and boost local economies. The hubs, designed under a build-operate-transfer arrangement, will attract private investment and create jobs while lowering the cost of building materials.

“Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, we are not just building houses; we are building hope, jobs, and economic opportunity,” Minister Dangiwa concluded. “We are creating a Nigeria where every citizen, regardless of income, can aspire to a decent home and a thriving urban environment. This is our commitment to the people, and we will continue to serve with dedication and passion.”

The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development remains steadfast in delivering sustainable and inclusive housing solutions for all Nigerians, transforming lives and contributing to a stronger, more prosperous nation.

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WHY APOSTLE SAMUEL GODWIN IS AMONG THE TOP LISTED PASTOR IN THE WORLD.

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WHY APOSTLE SAMUEL GODWIN IS AMONG THE TOP LISTED PASTOR IN THE WORLD.

*WHY APOSTLE SAMUEL GODWIN IS AMONG THE TOP LISTED PASTOR IN THE WORLD.

Nothing makes a job more gratifying than growth from within. Such growth signifies the acknowledgement of hard work on the part of the person involved.

WHY APOSTLE SAMUEL GODWIN IS AMONG THE TOP LISTED PASTOR IN THE WORLD.

This is the feat that has been recorded by Apostle Samuel Chidiebere Godwin , an Astute gentleman, humble, a rare philanthropist and humanitarian personality who will stop at nothing to engender better living for mankind.

The Lead Pastor of Revival Intercessors Ministries Int’l, Apostle Dr Samuel Godwin, a Nigeria cleric based in Port Harcourt, River State whose ministry is making waves in the global world, doing great exploit for the expansion of the kingdom of God, impacting lives positively, making Jesus famous.

He is one of the most loved pastor with highest followers among social network whose integrity is proved, tested and trusted.

If you call him a word smith, you will rightly hit the nail. You call him a prolific prophet or call him anything you like but the fact is that he remains one of the best respected God’s general making waves both in Nigeria and in the world at large looking at his convicted records.

His over 25 years doing God’s work has made him a renowned minister of God. Apostle Sam as he is fondly called by his friends and followers has shown the true manifestation of God. He has touched countless lives, impacted the life of people, and above all, God has used him to perform series of miracles through the word of God.

Lives has been saved, revived and transformed through his organized crusades, programs, and his daily prophetic prayers is always mind-blowing testimonies from around the world. Testimonies of fruit of the womb, Healing, Deliverance and some amazing breakthroughs and lots more. All to the Glory of God, to the amazement of people and to the shame of the devil.

Reflecting on his salvation experience and call into ministry which he said is unique despise his bitter experience but he never lost focus or got discouraged.

Apostle Samuel Chidiebere Godwin is a celebrated man with several astonishing achievement to his credit, he is not relenting in his drive for more success.

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SDNON Elects Adeniyi Ifetayo, Gbenga Shaba as President and Vice President Amidst Keenly Contested Election

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SDNON Elects Adeniyi Ifetayo, Gbenga Shaba as President and Vice President Amidst Keenly Contested Election

 

The Society of Digital Newspaper Owners of Nigeria (SDNON) has successfully concluded its 2024 executive elections, ushering in a new leadership team dedicated to advancing the association’s mission of promoting excellence in digital journalism.

In a closely contested election, Mr. Adeniyi Ifetayo emerged as the President-elect, while Mr. Gbenga Shaba was elected Vice President. Their victory signifies a commitment to bringing innovative leadership to the organization.

Mr. Adeniyi Ifetayo Moses is a multi-award-winning celebrity journalist, luxury and lifestyle reporter with Ben TV London, and the publisher of Megastar Magazine. With over 15 years of experience, he has carved a niche in celebrity journalism and media PR, representing the rich, famous, and influential personalities. An alumnus of the London School of Journalism and the Institute for the Advancement of Journalism in Johannesburg, South Africa, Ifetayo brings unparalleled expertise to the role of SDNON President.

Mr. Shaba Gbenga is a seasoned public relations guru and social media consultant. With over two decades of experience in journalism and media, he started his career with the Ondo State Radiovision Corporation (OSRC) before contributing to notable outlets such as Hope Newspapers, Encomium Magazine, and YES! International Magazine, among others. Gbenga’s wealth of experience positions him as a valuable Vice President for SDNON.

Other elected executives include:

General Secretary: Seunmanuel Faleye
Assistant General Secretary: Adenike Abiona
Treasurer: Angela Davies
Financial Secretary: Lillian Azuh
Registrar: Abdullah Elkurebe
Welfare Officer: Iyabo Aina
Public Relations Officer: Kanyinulia Okeke

The Electoral Committee, chaired by Mr. Bamidele Adeyemi and comprising Jennifer Nwosu and Gbolahan Adetayo, was commended for their meticulous planning and execution of the election process. Their efforts ensured transparency, fairness, and active participation among members.

The new leadership team is set to be inaugurated in the coming weeks, with high expectations for fostering innovation, inclusivity, and professional development within the digital journalism space.

About SDNON
The Society of Digital Newspaper Owners of Nigeria (SDNON) is a premier organization uniting publishers and proprietors of digital news platforms across Nigeria. SDNON is committed to upholding journalistic integrity, encouraging digital transformation, and addressing the evolving challenges faced by the media industry.

Signed
Kanyinulia Okeke,
Public Relations Officer.

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