Other News
AU, IDEA and INEC sign a MOU for the deployment of the Electoral Risk Management Tool in Nigeria
ABUJA – The African Union (AU), the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Nigeria, have on 3rd April 2014 formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the deployment and integration of the Electoral Risk Management (ERM) tool in the electoral process of Nigeria.
The ERM tool is designed to empower those who have immediate responsibility, or specific interest, to prevent and mitigate election-related violence, such as electoral management bodies, security sector agencies, civil society and other state and non-state actors.
Through this ERM tool project partnership, the three organizations have agreed to work together to improve the organizational capacity of INEC to address challenges relating to violence in the upcoming 2015 elections in Nigeria. The project will help INEC to identify the possible triggers for election-related violence before it occurs at different stages of the electoral cycle, assist in informed decision-making, and inform possible courses of action that may be appropriate in responding to identified threats.
Representing the African Union Commission in this important event were Dr. Khabele Matlosa, Director of Political Affairs, and Mr. Idrissa Kamara, Political Officer in the Department of Political Affairs. In his brief statement of mission, Dr. Matlosa noted the devastating effects of election-related violence on the continent and highlighted some of the efforts of the African Union Commission to address the phenomenon of election-related violence, including preventive diplomacy work of the Panel of the Wise and the long-term election observation methodology recently introduced in African Union election observation missions by the Democracy and Electoral Assistance Unit (DEAU) of the Department of Political Affairs.
He said understanding the risks of election-related violence, conflict and security challenges are an important part of supporting democracy and protecting the credibility of electoral process. He therefore called upon Nigeria, as a key member state of the African Union as well as Africa’s largest democracy, to effectively utilize to Tool to ensure peaceful and credible electoral outcome in 2015.
Also present at the signing ceremony was the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Nigeria, H.E. John C.M. Groffen, who pledged financial support to the joint AU-IDEA-INEC Electoral Risk Management Tool project implementation. The National Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, other Commissioners and officials represented INEC. Mr. Sead Alihodzic, Senior Programme Officer based in Stockholm, Sweden represented International IDEA.
Other News
Musa Joins Jaiz Bank As Ambassador
Super Eagles Captain, Ahmed Musa has been signed up by Jaiz Bank as a brand ambassador.
An elated Musa made the disclosure in a statement on his verified handle on micro-blogging site, X on Thursday.
The Kano Pillars striker urged his fans to troop to Jaiz Bank to do business for trusting him with the new role.
He exclaimed, “And to my amazing fans – if you want to support me, make sure to head over to Jaiz Bank and open your accounts with them today! ”
ALSO READ: CSR: Dangote Cement Fuels Education With Support Projects At Lagos Schools
He wrote, “✨Alhamdulillah✨ I am SO excited to announce that I’ve officially joined Jaiz Bank as their newest ambassador! 🎉💼
“A huge thank you to @JaizBankNG for trusting me and allowing me to be a part of this amazing journey! 🙏🏼💚 It’s an honor to represent a brand that believes in growth, security, and financial empowerment.
“I can’t wait to share all the incredible things we’ll be doing together! 🚀💡
And to my amazing fans – if you want to support me, make sure to head over to Jaiz Bank and open your accounts with them today! Let’s grow together! 💪🏼🔑
“@JaizBankNG is a non interest Financial institution poised with a mission to make life better through ethical Finance. 👌👌”
#NewBeginnings #BankWithJaizBank #PartneredUp #TeamJaizBank”
Other News
Kenya Celebrates First Lady Rachel Ruto’s 56th Birthday
On November 20, 2024, Kenya’s First Lady, Rachel Ruto, celebrated her 56th birthday and her husband President William Ruto publicly expressed his love and appreciation for his wife on this special day, wishing her well.
The birthday celebrations were marked by an outpouring of goodwill from political figures, media, and citizens across Kenya, who praised her for her grace, leadership, and significant contributions to society, particularly through initiatives like the Joyful Women Organisation, which aims to empower rural women.
READ MORE: Vinicius Jr. Honors Cameroonian Roots Ahead Of Brazil’s Clash With Uruguay
The day was characterized by a collective acknowledgment of her role as a national figure dedicated to community upliftment.
In a heartfelt message, President William Ruto took to social media, writing, “Happy birthday my love, @MamaRachelRuto. Continue being a blessing to me and our children. Mungu akubariki sana,” which translates to “God bless you abundantly.”
Other prominent leaders also extended their wishes to the First Lady, with Anne Waiguru, EGH, OGW, Governor of Kirinyaga County, tweeting, “Happy Birthday First Lady,” further showing the respect and admiration for Rachel Ruto’s leadership and impact.
Other News
Gas Explosion in Katsina Filling Station Damages Six Vehicles
A gas cylinder explosion at a filling station in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State has resulted in significant damage to six vehicles, according to a statement from the Katsina State Police Command.
The command’s spokesperson, Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, confirmed the incident, which occurred on Friday, November 15, 2024.
He explained that a loud explosion alerted police operatives from the Jibia Divisional Police Headquarters. Responding promptly, the Divisional Police Officer led a team to the site, supported by military personnel.
READ MORE: JUST IN: Inflation Woes Continue As Nigerian Rates Climb To 33.88%
“Upon arrival, operatives found a truck loaded with gas cylinders engulfed in flames at Tamal filling station, along Kagadama-Magamar Jibia Road,” Sadiq-Aliyu stated. The joint team acted swiftly, deploying measures to protect lives and limit property damage. Their efforts successfully extinguished the fire.
The spokesperson added, “Six motor vehicles were significantly affected by the fire incident, but fortunately, no life was lost.”
State Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Abubakar-Musa, has directed a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the explosion. Updates on the findings will be provided as investigations progress.
This incident highlights the need for heightened safety measures at gas filling stations to prevent such occurrences.