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ASUP Issues Two-Week Ultimatum To FG Over Unmet Demands

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The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has issued a two-week ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding action on a series of unresolved issues affecting the nation’s polytechnic education sector.

The ultimatum is set to commence on October 7 and will end on October 25, 2024. If the government fails to address the demands, ASUP may resort to industrial action.

The announcement was made by ASUP President, Shammah Kpanja, during a press conference following the Union’s National Executive Council meeting in Abuja.

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Kpanja emphasized that the ultimatum was necessary due to ongoing grievances that were discussed in the 111th NEC session.

Key issues highlighted by Kpanja include allegations of impunity and a lack of adherence to the Federal Polytechnics Act and various state edicts governing polytechnic institutions.

He noted that these problems hinder the appointment of principal officers in both Federal and State-Owned Polytechnics, which affects governance in the sector.

Kpanja expressed concern over the non-review of the contentious “Schemes of Service for Polytechnics” document and the failure to release conditions of service, which are critical for the functioning of polytechnics.

He also criticized the government for not releasing the second tranche of the NEEDS Assessment intervention funds.

Another major point of contention is the alleged overreach of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) into the responsibilities of Academic Boards regarding the admission of Higher National Diploma students.

Kpanja stated that this interference undermines the integrity of the academic system.

Additionally, he lamented the absence of provisions for the peculiar academic allowances of members in the upcoming budget, as well as the failure of state-owned polytechnics to implement a 35/25% salary review and settle outstanding arrears for Federal Polytechnics staff.

Kpanja also addressed the unresolved CONTISS 15 Migration arrears for lower cadre members and the lack of progress on the renegotiation of the ASUP/FGN 2010 agreement.

“Should the government ignore our demands, we will mobilize our members for protests,” Kpanja warned, reiterating the union’s commitment to advocating for a functional polytechnic education system.

He concluded, “Our union hereby issues a 15-day ultimatum as required by law, commencing from 7th October 2024. We hope the government will utilize this period to address these critical issues and prevent an imminent shutdown of the sector.”

Following the ultimatum, the ASUP National Executive Council will reconvene to decide on further actions based on the government’s response.

Union chapters across the country have been instructed to prepare for potential protests and media campaigns during this period.

 

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2027: Shettima Arrives in Uyo for APC Presidential Campaign Rally

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Who is Senator Kashim Shetima, Tinubu's running mate

Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, for the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign rally ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The development was disclosed on Friday by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President.

Akwa Ibom occupies a strategic position in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, with major federal investments expected to strengthen infrastructure and economic activities across the state.

SEE ALSO: 2027: Shettima Arrives in Lafia to Rally Support for Tinubu’s Re-election

One of the major projects is the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, which has an approximately 82.8-kilometre stretch passing through Akwa Ibom.

The project, according to the statement, “promises improved connectivity, expanded trade, greater investment and new economic opportunities for communities across the region.”

Beyond infrastructure, the administration’s interventions in education, agriculture, healthcare, youth empowerment and social protection are also designed to improve livelihoods and broaden economic participation.

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund) is among the initiatives highlighted, complementing Governor Umo Eno’s investments in roads, aviation, tourism and human capital development.

The statement noted that the Uyo rally provides “another opportunity to strengthen the APC’s growing political presence in the South-South and make the case for continuity in 2027.”

 

 

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Elohor Aiboni Honoured with DTN@100 Changemaker Award

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Executive Vice President and Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria, Elohor Aiboni was among 100 people honoured with the DTN@100 Award.

She joined a list of distinguished recipients recognised by the Daily Times newspapers. The contributions of the awardees to national development will be documented in a special publication, titled Nigerian Grand Book.

Daily Times which started publication in 1926 gave the awards as part of its centenary celebrations in Lagos. The centenary theme is: “Honouring the Past, Shaping the Future.” Chairman, Folio Media Group and Publisher Daily Times of Nigeria Fidelis Anosike said: “We proudly celebrate Elohor Aiboni, Executive Vice President and Country Chair of Shell Companies in Nigeria, for her well-deserved recognition at the Daily Times Heroes Award. As a visionary female leader, Elohor has shown that true leadership is defined by action. Her forward-thinking policies continue to drive real, positive change across our nation.”

In her response, Elohor said: “Although this award is presented to me, I do not regard it as mine alone. I share it with my colleagues across the Shell Companies in Nigeria, our partners, and the many people I have had the privilege of working with and learning from over the years.”

Elohor was commended for her achievements in a career in the energy industry that started in Shell in 2002. In addition to serving in operational roles within and outside Nigeria, she has worked as asset manager for Bonga, leading up to her appointment as Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo) in 2021, the first female to hold the post. Early this year, she took up the role of Executive Vice President and Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria, also the first female and Nigerian to hold both roles.

READ ALSO: “8216;The Panic Is Real” Atiku Accuses APC of Plot to Weaken ADC

In her acceptance speech, Elohor also called for concerted efforts towards educating the girl-child. She said: “If we are serious about shaping Nigeria’s future, we must be equally serious about educating and empowering the Nigerian girl child. Education provides not only knowledge, but also confidence, choice and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to her community and country.”
Photo Caption – L-R: Energy and Investment Solicitor, Sam Aiboni; Executive Vice President and Country Chair, Shell Nigeria, Elohor Aiboni; actress Rita Dominic; and Daily Times Chairman, Fidelis Anosike, during the award presentation at Harbour Point, Lagos.

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Tinubu Hails Flamingos After Historic World Cup Final Qualification, Urges Team to Win Trophy

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national football team, the Flamingos, following their historic qualification for the final of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

The President commended the team for their impressive 3-1 victory over Brazil in Wednesday’s semi-final, describing their achievement as a remarkable milestone that has brought immense pride and joy to Nigerians at home and abroad.

In a statement issued on Thursday, November 5, by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu also praised the coaching crew and everyone whose hard work and support contributed to the team’s successful campaign.

SEE ALSO: 2027: Shettima Arrives in Lafia to Rally Support for Tinubu’s Re-election

With the Flamingos set to face Japan in the final, the President urged the players to remain focused, confident and determined as they pursue the historic world title.

“I encourage you to approach the final with the same fighting spirit and belief that have brought you this far. I have confidence in your ability to make history by winning the coveted world title,” he said.

Tinubu also called on Nigerians to rally behind the young players, describing them as national ambassadors whose achievements continue to showcase the country’s sporting excellence.

He said the team’s performance would inspire a new generation of girls to pursue their dreams without limitations.

“Once again, Nigeria is proud of you. Go for the trophy, Flamingos!” the President added.

 

 

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