Festus Osifo, President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria, has stated that the TUC will not be participating in the planned nationwide protest against economic hardships scheduled for August 1. At a news conference in Abuja, Osifo explained that the TUC had not been approached by any organizers and, therefore, had no plans to join the protest.

Osifo emphasized the importance of dialogue and planning for any protest, noting that the TUC had not been contacted for collaboration. He also urged the Inspector-General of Police to ensure that the protest remains peaceful and is not exploited by individuals with ulterior motives.

Additionally, Osifo criticized the federal government’s decision to float the Naira, which he believes has contributed to economic hardship by making imports more expensive and exposing the Naira to fluctuations against the dollar. He called for measures to improve food production, particularly in Benue and Plateau States, and recommended implementing zero import duty on manufacturing equipment to boost job creation.

Osifo also addressed the ongoing dispute between Dangote and petroleum industry stakeholders, urging President Bola Tinubu to intervene and resolve the conflict to maintain investor confidence in Nigeria. He advocated for an end to provocative statements from all parties involved and suggested a unified approach to finding solutions.

Dr. Jamila Ibrahim, Nigeria’s Minister of Youth Development, has urged youths to reconsider their plan for a 10-day protest starting August 1. Speaking in Abuja during a visit from the newly constituted National Students Management Council (NSMC), she emphasized that peace and stability are crucial for Nigeria to fulfill its goals.

Ibrahim acknowledged the economic difficulties caused by high food prices and the global impact of COVID-19 on the economy, asserting that the government is actively addressing these issues. She urged young people to avoid actions that might disrupt the law and stressed that the current administration, under President Bola Tinubu, is committed to supporting students through various initiatives.

These initiatives include the student loan scheme, the establishment of a Youth Development Bank for aspiring entrepreneurs, and the rehabilitation of 42 Youth Development Centres into centres of excellence in partnership with the private sector.

Jacob Ternenge, a council member, supported Ibrahim’s stance against the planned protest, promising to work towards persuading students and youth to avoid participating. Sunday Asefon, another council member, noted that the council would collaborate with relevant ministries to ensure that government policies on youth and education reach the grassroots effectively.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, has expressed profound sadness over the death of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. Obi described Iwuanyanwu as a significant figure who worked towards national unity and whose contributions to Nigeria would be remembered.

In his message on X, Obi praised Iwuanyanwu as a “bridge builder” dedicated to the peaceful coexistence of the nation and committed to justice, equity, and development beyond tribal lines. He reflected on a recent hospital visit where Iwuanyanwu had expressed hope for recovery, and expressed regret upon learning of his passing.

Obi extended his condolences to Iwuanyanwu’s family, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and the entire nation, praying for the strength to endure the loss and for Iwuanyanwu’s eternal rest.

President Bola Tinubu addressed Islamic leaders, led by Sheikh Bala Lau, at the State House, affirming that his election victory was achieved through divine intervention. He emphasized that his campaign was self-funded, with no external sponsors or debts, and that he is committed to following divine guidance in his leadership.

Tinubu assured that his government’s economic reforms are free from external manipulation. He outlined various initiatives, including social welfare schemes to benefit individuals at the ward level, student loans to cover educational expenses, consumer credit to aid in purchasing homes and vehicles, and a significant increase in the minimum wage.

He expressed concern about the potential negative consequences of protests driven by anger and hatred, warning that such actions could lead to violence and setbacks for the country. Tinubu criticized those who sponsor protests, suggesting they prioritize personal agendas over national interests.

In his remarks, Sheikh Bala Lau assured Tinubu of continued support and prayers, emphasizing the importance of peace and guidance for Nigeria.

Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organization, has recently issued a statement regarding the planned nationwide protests in Nigeria. The organization, represented by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, emphasized the following points:

• Acknowledgment of Protest Rights: Afenifere recognizes the right of Nigerians to protest as a means to express their dissatisfaction with current conditions. They understand that such demonstrations are often driven by deep-seated grievances and the desire to draw government attention to pressing issues.
• Call for Reflective Action: While acknowledging the role of protests, Afenifere urges Nigerians to consider if there are other effective ways to address their concerns. They suggest that engagement with the government can be a powerful tool to highlight issues and seek solutions.
• Concerns Over Unintended Consequences: The statement recalls the aftermath of the #EndSARS protests in 2020, highlighting the significant damage caused, including the destruction of a state-of-the-art laboratory in Lagos. Afenifere warns against potential negative outcomes of protests and calls for careful consideration of the methods and impacts of demonstrations.
• Government Engagement: Afenifere urges the government to actively engage with the public and address their concerns through tangible actions. They stress the importance of taking prompt measures to alleviate the suffering of citizens and improve their conditions.

The organization’s statement reflects a nuanced view of protests, advocating for constructive dialogue and effective engagement with authorities while acknowledging the legitimate reasons behind public dissatisfaction.

The 2024 State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) Report highlights significant challenges in global food security and nutrition. Key points from the report include:

• Food Insecurity: In 2023, 2.33 billion people faced moderate or severe food insecurity. Of these, over 864 million experienced severe food insecurity. This reflects a concerning global trend, with about 733 million people facing hunger, translating to one in eleven people worldwide and one in five people in Africa.
• Nutritional Affordability: Over 2.8 billion people were unable to afford a healthy diet in 2022. Low-income countries were disproportionately affected, with 71.5% of people in these regions unable to afford nutritious food.
• Child Nutrition: Progress has been made in exclusive breastfeeding, with rates increasing to 48%. However, challenges remain in achieving global nutrition targets. Stunting among children under five is at 22.3%, and there has been stagnation in reducing low birthweight and increased anemia in women.
• Adult Obesity: The prevalence of adult obesity rose from 12.1% in 2012 to 15.8% in 2022. Projections suggest that 1.2 billion adults will be obese by 2030.
• Recommendations: The report emphasizes the need for increased investments in sustainable and cost-effective interventions to prevent child malnutrition, particularly during the critical first 1,000 days of a child’s life. It calls for fiscal and regulatory policies to improve access to nutritious, safe, affordable, and sustainable foods, while discouraging the production and consumption of nutrient-poor and ultra-processed foods.

The SOFI Report is a collaborative effort by various international organizations, including UNICEF, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the World Health Organisation (WHO), and the World Food Programme (WFP). The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address food insecurity and malnutrition globally.

On Thursday, President Bola Tinubu addressed the traditional rulers led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, at the State House in Abuja. He discussed the country’s gradual economic recovery and emphasized his administration’s commitment to addressing citizens’ needs.

Tinubu reassured the rulers that despite the challenges, Nigeria is on a steady path to economic recovery. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by the populace, including the impacts of recent protests, and assured that his administration is dedicated to improving the situation.

The President highlighted several government initiatives aimed at addressing economic and infrastructural issues, including the activation of the student loan program, consumer credit schemes, and fiscal autonomy for local governments. He also mentioned plans to reactivate the Bank of Agriculture, address infrastructural decay, and explore economic opportunities through projects like the Lagos-Calabar coastal road, which could boost wind energy, irrigation, and create jobs for farmers.

Tinubu addressed security concerns, noting improvements while emphasizing the need for continued vigilance. He expressed commitment to enhancing the economy and ensuring that the benefits of reforms are communicated effectively to the public. The President called on the traditional rulers to support government efforts by conveying its genuine intentions to their communities.

The Sultan of Sokoto and the Ooni of Ife acknowledged the President’s efforts and appreciated the inclusion of key officials in the meeting to brief them on the state of the economy and security. They pledged to relay the information back to their communities to foster a better understanding of the government’s plans and progress.

On Thursday in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu praised the enduring partnership between Nigeria and China during a meeting with Chen Xiaodong, the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China.

Tinubu highlighted the importance of nurturing and promoting the longstanding relationship, which has spanned over 50 years. He expressed his appreciation for President Xi Jinping’s focus on Africa and its developmental needs, and welcomed China’s support for Nigeria’s increased role in international forums like the G20, UN Security Council, and BRICS.

The President noted the significant transformation China has undergone, citing his visit to Shanghai and its rapid development as a testament to China’s progress. He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration, particularly in infrastructure development, technology transfer, and skill development for Nigeria’s vibrant youth population.

Tinubu also thanked Xi Jinping for inviting him to China and reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, leveraging China’s technological expertise, and exploring opportunities for mutual benefit.

In response, Chen Xiaodong commended Tinubu for his strategic leadership in ECOWAS and Africa, expressing confidence that the upcoming meeting with President Jinping will further enhance opportunities for both Nigeria and the continent. He also congratulated Tinubu on his re-election as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Kaduna State University (KASU) has announced a two-week warning strike in response to unresolved welfare issues. The decision, communicated in a letter to Vice-Chancellor Prof. Abdullahi Musa and signed by ASUU KASU Chairman Dr. Peter Adamu and Secretary Dr. Peter Waziri, follows a union congress held on Thursday.

The strike is set to address several critical issues:

• Unpaid Salaries: Five months’ salaries from May to September 2022 and 60% of September 2017 salaries remain unpaid, along with other withheld salaries for academic staff.
• Earned Academic Allowance: Payments due from 2018 to the present.
• Pension Remittances: Outstanding pension contributions from 2009 to 2019.
• Group Life Insurance: Compensation for deceased academic staff from 2019 to date.

The warning strike will begin following approval by the ASUU National Executive Council, which will meet at the University of Ibadan, Oyo State, from August 2 to August 4, 2024.

The Police Command in Katsina State announced the arrest of two suspects involved in aiding and abetting banditry, recovering suspected rustled animals from them. The Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, revealed this in a statement issued in Katsina on Thursday.

The arrests took place in Jibia Local Government Area, thanks to the collaboration between the police, the State’s Community Watch Corps (KSCWC), and local hunters. On July 25, 2024, police operatives attached to Jibia Divisional Police Headquarters, while on routine patrol with KSCWC and hunters, arrested the suspects along Magama cemetery. They were found in possession of two rams, one sheep, and a goat, all suspected to have been rustled.

During the investigation, the suspects confessed to receiving the rustled animals from a notorious bandits’ leader named Nura from Mazanya village in Jibia, who is currently at large. The suspects were on their way to dispose of the animals at Magama market in Jibia local government. They admitted to having received rustled animals multiple times from the bandits’ kingpin and selling them.

Sadiq-Aliyu confirmed that efforts are being intensified to arrest the fleeing suspect, with the investigation ongoing. He attributed the success to the sustained efforts of the command in the fight against armed banditry, under the leadership of the Commissioner, Aliyu Abubakar-Musa.

Former US President Barack Obama announced his endorsement of Kamala Harris for the 2024 presidential election on Friday, July 26. This endorsement is expected to significantly bolster Harris’ campaign by emphasizing her strong leadership qualities and vision for the future of the United States.

In a heartfelt message on the social media platform X, Obama shared that he and former First Lady Michelle Obama personally reached out to Harris to convey their support. “Earlier this week, Michelle and I called our friend Kamala Harris. We told her we think she’ll make a fantastic President of the United States, and that she has our full support,” Obama wrote.

Obama praised Harris for her dedication to public service and her ability to address complex issues. “Kamala has shown time and again that she is a leader who listens to the people, understands the challenges we face, and is committed to finding solutions,” he added.

Harris, currently serving as Vice President, has been a prominent figure in American politics, advocating for policies on healthcare, climate change, and social justice. Obama’s endorsement is anticipated to galvanize her supporters and attract undecided voters as she campaigns for the Democratic nomination. It is also seen as a strategic move to unify the Democratic Party and strengthen Harris’ position against potential rivals.

Political analysts believe that Obama’s influence could play a crucial role in Harris’ bid for the presidency. Harris expressed her gratitude for the endorsement, stating, “I am deeply honored and humbled by the support of Barack and Michelle Obama. Their confidence in me inspires me to continue fighting for a brighter future for all Americans.”

The Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Ibrahim, has appealed to youths to reconsider their plan to embark on a 10-day protest starting from August 1. During a visit from members of the newly constituted National Students Management Council (NSMC) in Abuja, led by Senior Special Assistant to the President, Sunday Asefon, Ibrahim emphasized the need for peace and stability to achieve the nation’s goals.

Ibrahim acknowledged the economic hardships and high cost of food items affecting the country, noting that these issues are not unique to Nigeria and have been exacerbated globally since the COVID-19 pandemic. She urged the youths to remain law-abiding and reassured them that the government is addressing these challenges.

She highlighted the government’s commitment to student welfare, citing various programs introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, including the student loan scheme and the establishment of the Youth Development Bank to support young entrepreneurs. Ibrahim also mentioned the rehabilitation of 42 Youth Development Centres across the country in partnership with the private sector to enhance service delivery and sustainability.

Jacob Ternenge, a Principal Special Assistant (PSA) on Youth and Student Affairs to the Governor of Benue State and a council member, expressed opposition to the planned protest, vowing to work with students and youth across the country to reject it. Sunday Asefon added that the council would collaborate with the ministries of Youth Development and Education to ensure that government policies reach the grassroots and support the education sector’s objectives.

Sheikh Aminuddeen Daurawa, a renowned Islamic scholar, has urged the organizers of the planned nationwide protests in Nigeria to reveal their identities and engage in dialogue with the Federal Government. He made this appeal in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday, suggesting that this approach would help halt the protests. While acknowledging citizens’ right to protest, Daurawa warned that anonymous demonstrations could be exploited by individuals with ulterior motives.

Daurawa called for unity among Nigerians to address the nation’s challenges through dialogue, emphasizing the importance of preserving the country’s hard-earned unity. As a commander of the Sharia Police in Kano, he advised the Federal Government to listen to the public outcry and address grievances to prevent the protests. He highlighted the severity of the hardships faced by Nigerians, including hunger, inflation, unemployment, and insecurity.

The cleric stressed that the current democratic system allows for protests and human rights, and citizens’ rights cannot be restricted. He added that the government has the power to stop the protest by addressing the people’s concerns and resolving the hardships they face. Daurawa urged the government to take all necessary measures to address public grievances, ensuring peace, progress, and political stability.

Morocco is facing its sixth consecutive year of drought and extreme temperatures. In Beni Mellal, a city about 200 km southeast of Casablanca, 21 people died within 24 hours due to the heat, as reported by AFP on Thursday, citing a statement from the Moroccan Ministry of Health.

On Wednesday, the region experienced temperatures of 48 degrees Celsius. Among the victims of the heatwave, 17 people died in hospitals, while four died outside medical facilities.

“Most of the deaths occurred in people with chronic diseases and the elderly, and high temperatures contributed to the deterioration of their health and led to their deaths,” the regional medical services stated.

On Thursday, the Moroccan Ministry of Health reported temperatures reaching 43 degrees Celsius in the Beni Mellal region. This marks the sixth year in a row that Morocco has been grappling with drought and extreme heat.

According to the European climate monitoring service Copernicus, Monday, July 22, was the warmest day on record worldwide, with the average air temperature on Earth’s surface reaching 17.16 degrees Celsius.