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Project Tracking: ICPC Recovers N2.8 bn Assets, Compels 450 Contractors Back To Sites – Commissioner
Published
3 years agoon
By
Editor
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) says it has recovered N2.8 billion assets in the last three years through its Constituency and Executive Projects Tracking initiative (CEPTi).
Mr Agwu Amefula, ICPC Commissioner in Edo State disclosed this on Tuesday in Benin during his presentation at a sensitisation dialogue with community influencers.
The dialogue, which had traditional rulers, religious leaders and community based Civil Society Organisations in attendance was on behavioural change, national ethics and integrity policy as well as the CEPTi.
Amefula said the commission had compelled 450 contactors back to sites to complete either abandoned or shoddy done projects.
READ ALSO: ICPC Identifies Greatest Obstacle To Nigeria’s Anti-corruption Fight
He, however, urged the influencers to closely monitor corrupt practices and transparency issues, which he said had become rampant in the delivery of public projects in various communities.
This, he said would cause change to happen by reporting observed sharp practices to the commission.
The commissioner, who described community influencers as agents for attitudinal and behavioural change in society, urged them to participate in the goverance process by engaging their representatives in project determination.
“It’s essential for them to help on prevention of corruption through the study and review of operational systems (in procurement and implementation of public projects) in Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
“Education and Enlightenment of citizens in your domains and members of your congregations on and against corruption is a must do task for you.
“Ensure that your communities are rid of all Corrupt practices through robust engagements and behavioural change strategies,” said the ICPC boss.
In her presentation, Mrs Ese Okwong, Assistant Director in the commission sought adherence to the national ethics and integrity policy developed by the ICPC in collaboration with the office of the Secretary to the Government of Federation and the National Orientation Agency.
The policy, Okwong said, was aimed at enhancing values and integrity as well as tackling corruption in Nigeria.
She added that the policy was in response to the many damaging effects of corruption in both public and private sectors, with a view to help restore and revitalize these sectors.
Earlier in his opening address, Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye, ICPC chairman said the commission entered into partnership with the influencers to promote the policy and canvas their buy-in to enable nationwide success.
READ ALSO: ICPC Raids Military Contractor’s Abuja Home, Recovers $220,965, Cars, Others
Owasanoye, who was represented by Grace Chinda lauded the Edo State Government for helping to mobilise the audience.
Participants at the dialogue sought more funding and logistics for the commission to build its capacity to investigate corrupt cases in the state.
The participants noted that there was a disconnection between government and the people, hence the need for more awareness creation and inclusion in the school curriculum for students.
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News
Seadogs Champions Social Justice Through Inaugural Art Exhibition In Owerri
Published
44 minutes agoon
August 3, 2025By
Editor
In a fusion of creativity and conscience, the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) has reaffirmed its dedication to social justice by launching its maiden art exhibition, Art Ova Yap, in Owerri, Imo State.
Held as part of the association’s 49th National Konverge and Annual General Meeting, the exhibition showcased powerful visual narratives crafted by talented members of the Confraternity—many of them professional artists—who used their work to spotlight issues of governance, inequality, and societal transformation.
NAS Cap’n (International President), Dr. Joseph Oteri, described the exhibition as more than a celebration of talent.
According to him, it was a deliberate act of advocacy rooted in the association’s founding principles of justice, equity, and service to humanity.
“Art Ova Yap is not just about aesthetics. It is our response to the urgent need for platforms that amplify marginalised voices and foster dialogue around issues that affect everyday Nigerians,” Oteri said.
“Our mission is to inspire understanding, empathy, and action—art is our vehicle for that change.”
The exhibition, he noted, aims to encourage public engagement on the role of artists in shaping public policy and challenging societal injustices.
READ ALSO: Davido Thrills In Toronto, Brooklyn As US Tour Heats Up
He also announced that proceeds from the event would go towards supporting families of deceased NAS members, and that plans were underway to institutionalise Art Ova Yap as a permanent fixture in the association’s calendar.
Chief Programme Officer, Chief Bart Akelemor, said the Pyrates Confraternity has always positioned itself as a moral compass in the Nigerian civic space, often using unconventional tools to drive critical conversations. Art, he said, is now one of its newest instruments.
“Our founding fathers envisioned a society built on fairness, knowledge, and service.
“This exhibition is a continuation of that vision—where creativity becomes a channel for social justice, national development, and equitable access to opportunities,” Akelemor explained.
Also speaking at the event, Prof Adesoji Adesugba, a key supporter of the initiative and former Managing Director of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority, highlighted the Confraternity’s deep-rooted affinity with cultural expression.
READ ALSO:Pre-season: Why I Dropped Timber, Gabriel Magalhães From Arsenal Squad vs AC Milan – Arteta
Tracing the origins of NAS to its founding in 1952 at the University of Ibadan, he said the Confraternity has always employed art, music, drama, and literature as tools for social critique and civic enlightenment.
“Art Ova Yap is a visionary platform that will help engage Nigeria’s youth through artistic expression.
“Beyond this inaugural event, we are introducing an artist-in-residence programme that will mentor young talents and culminate in an annual competitive showcase,” he said.
The exhibition was officially declared open by Dr. Asani Omozuwa on behalf of the Chairman of the Tortugarde-In-Council and NAS Board of Trustees, Prof Olatunde Makunju.
Omozuwa praised the vision and depth of the works on display, especially those honouring the late artist Olugbohun Ajayi, to whom the exhibition was dedicated.
READ ALSO: Community Policing Child Of Necessity – NBA Chairman
In a goodwill message, Elder Tim Akpareva, member of the NAS Board of Trustees, said Art Ova Yap embodies the group’s core philosophy of “action over rhetoric” and represents NAS’s role as both cultural custodian and social advocate.
Featured artists included International Sculptor of repute Prof.
Tunde Waritmi; Editorial cartoon legend Ebun Aleshinloye; Editorial Cartoon veteran and painter, Chuks Onwudinjo; Contemporary Uli art form exponent and curator of the exhibition, Chuma Anagbado; co-curator and collage innovator Emeka Ihejirika; and rising star Chikezie Obilor.
As the exhibition concluded, it was clear that Art Ova Yap was more than a showcase—it was a movement.
A movement where brushstrokes meet bold ideas, and where the canvas becomes a battleground for justice, equity, and societal rebirth.
News
UNICEF, U-Report Build Capacity Of Youth Advocates On Child-Friendly Budgeting
Published
1 hour agoon
August 3, 2025By
Editor
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Bauchi Field Office, and U-Report has embarked on a one-day capacity building training of youth advocates in Bauchi State on the budget process and its impact on child development.
The training focused on advocating for increased investment in child-friendly sectors through improved and adequate budgeting.
The one-day engagement brought together 25 U-Reporters from across the state.
It could be recalled that U-Report is UNICEF’s global platform that empowers young people to speak out on issues that matter to them, access trusted information, and drive positive change in their communities.
READ ALSO: Edo Assures Pensioners Of Improved Welfare, Universal Health Coverage
It operates in over 90 countries using digital technology and real-time insights to influence policies and decision-making.
Speaking at the event, Mr Abubakar Usman, a representative from the Bauchi State Ministry of Budget, Economic Planning, and Multilateral Coordination, highlighted the importance of public understanding and participation in the budgeting process.
According to him the budget belongs to the people and the youth must understand how it works so they could advocate for the right priorities, especially those affecting children.
He added that the ministry encourages feedback and public contributions to ensure the budget reflects the needs of all, especially vulnerable groups.
Also speaking, Mrs Sophie Safratu-Bako, a resource person at the training, described the budget as a financial plan that outlines government revenue and expenditure for a fiscal year.
READ ALSO: Edo LG Poll: My Ambition Driven By Commitment To Fast-track Grassroot Development – Aspirant
She emphasized its role in promoting equitable development across key sectors such as education, health, infrastructure, and security.
“Budgeting is not just about numbers—it is about people and priorities,” she said. “Young people have the power to influence policies. Your voices can ensure child-focused priorities are reflected in public spending.”
Earlier Mr Opeyemi Olaguju, Communications Officer, UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, said it was high time the youth advocated for the need to hold leaders accountable and ensure children’s needs were prioritized in public budgets.
“Young advocates must champion good governance and demand increased investment in sectors that directly affect their lives and futures,” he urged.
The engagement aimed to equip youth with the knowledge and tools needed to analyze budgets, engage in advocacy, and participate meaningfully in governance processes for a better and more inclusive future.
News
7 Essential Blood Tests Every Adult Should Take Regularly
Published
5 hours agoon
August 3, 2025By
Editor
Many diseases don’t show clear symptoms until it’s too late. That’s why routine health checks, especially blood tests, are important. They help catch silent problems early so you can treat them before they get serious.
There are specific blood tests every adult should take, even if you feel perfectly healthy. In this article are blood tests adults need, and what they reveal about your body.
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
The CBC test checks your red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It helps detect things like anemia (low red blood cells), infections, and immune system issues.
READ ALSO:Why We’re Spending N712bn To Renovate Lagos Airport — Kayamo
2. Fasting Blood Sugar Test (Glucose Test)
This test measures the amount of sugar in your blood. It helps detect prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes. High blood sugar can silently damage your nerves, eyes, and kidneys without you noticing.
3. Lipid Panel (Cholesterol Test)
This test checks your LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and Triglycerides. High cholesterol increases your risk of heart disease and stroke.
4. Liver Function Test (LFT)
The liver helps filter toxins from your blood. This test checks for hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and liver damage from alcohol or medication.
5. Kidney Function Test (Creatinine and BUN Test)
Your kidneys clean your blood. This test helps detect chronic kidney disease, kidney infections, and kidney failure risks
READ ALSO:Malaria Kills 9 Nigerians Every Hour – SFH
6. Thyroid Test (TSH, T3, T4)
Your thyroid controls your metabolism, weight, mood, and energy. This test detects hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
7. Vitamin D and B12 Tests
These tests check your nutrient levels. Low Vitamin D can cause bone weakness. Low Vitamin B12 can cause tiredness, nerve problems, and memory issues.
Don’t wait for symptoms before you get tested. Your health is your greatest asset, and blood tests are one of the smartest, simplest ways to protect it.
(TRIBUNE)
- Seadogs Champions Social Justice Through Inaugural Art Exhibition In Owerri
- UNICEF, U-Report Build Capacity Of Youth Advocates On Child-Friendly Budgeting
- Hotel Under Construction Collapses In Edo Kills Owner
- Anambra guber: Soludo Raises Alarm, Alledges Plot By APC To Manipulate Election
- 7 Essential Blood Tests Every Adult Should Take Regularly
- 5 Common Causes Of Plane Crashes
- Why Only Virgins Deserve Bride Price — Reno Omokri
- Why We’re Spending N712bn To Renovate Lagos Airport — Kayamo
- 2025 Recruitment: Immigration, Civil Defence, Others Issue Important Notice To Applicants
- American Six-time Grammy Winner, Flaco Jimenez, Is Dead
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