The Central Bank of Nigeria and the private sector, led by
Aliko Dangote Foundation and Access Bank, have set up a coalition aimed at
raising N120bn towards the fight against COVID-19 in Nigeria.
The Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr Godwin Emefiele, said
at a press briefing in Lagos on Thursday that the Nigerian Private Sector
Coalition Against COVID-19 was created out of the urgent need to combat the
COVID-19 pandemic in the country.
According to him, four major committees were set up, namely,
funding, steering, operational and technical committees.
He said each member of the funding committee would
contribute at least N1bn.
Emefiele said, “Information gathered so far has revealed
that to procure all needed equipment, material and infrastructure needed to
fight the corona pandemic, over N120bn must to be raised.
“The Bankers Committee and these important stakeholders will
be required to step up to support this endeavour. We are already engaging other
important stakeholders in Nigeria and abroad, such as the Nigerian National
Petroleum Corporation and players in oil industry.”
The CBN governor said an account would be set up at the CBN
to receive both naira and foreign currencies from donors.
He said the steering committee would be chaired by the
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Boss Mustapha, who currently
chairs the Federal Government Committee on Covid-19.
He said, “The funding committee will be responsible for the
initial funding of the effort. Membership comprises the CBN governor, Aliko
Dangote, Herbert Wigwe, Jim Ovia, Tony Elumelu, Segun Agbaje, Abdulsamad Rabiu
and Femi Otedola.
“Each member of the committee is to ensure that their institution contributes at least N1bn to this effort. More members are allowed as long as they are willing to contribute at least N1bn.”
In line with its commitment to deliver total healthcare to its patrons and patients and etched a permanent smile on the faces of families, St. Ives Hospital recently celebrated a landmark three thousand (3000) in vitro fertilization, IVF births. The hospital, which is fast becoming synonymous with IVF success, has continued to record ground breaking acclaim with its patients in its assisted reproductive technology initiative.
Many Nigerians who hitherto believed that their dreams of becoming parents via the IVF route can only be realized abroad are now the ones recommending the hospital to others in the same situation as themselves. The 3000 births success represents one of the highest rates in the medical industry in Nigeria.
St. Ives hospital started out in 1996, with the family as the area of focus, dedicating its service to women, children and the family at large. Overtime, in 2007, it delved into fertility as a core area of competence and has since distinguished itself as the hospital of choice for those who are seeking the fruit of the womb. Among its outstanding feats was the delivery of a set of twins by a 68-year-old lady, which went on to be recorded as the oldest IVF mother in Africa.
The hospital, whose team is led by Dr. Babatunde Okewale, the founder and Chief Medical Director has continued to grow in leaps and bounds with presence at Ikeja, Ikoyi, Akowonjo, all in Lagos State and Abeokuta in Ogun State. The FESTAC branch of the hospital is planned for opening in the third quarter of 2024. One of the outstanding features of the hospital is the fact that there is a medical consultant on seat at each of its hospital branches.
In the wake of a destructive rainstorm that struck Otta and its environs on Sunday, April 21, 2024, His Majesty, Kabiyesi Olota, Oba Professor Adeyemi Abdukabir Obalanlege, has demonstrated exemplary leadership by conducting an on-the-spot assessment of the affected areas.
Residents of Sango Otta awoke to a scene of chaos and distress as fallen power poles littered the roads, creating hazardous conditions for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Recognizing the urgent need for assistance, the Olota wasted no time in mobilising efforts to provide support and relief to the affected communities.
In a statement released by Afin Olota Ile Awori and signed by the Olota’s personal assistant, Prince Adeyemi Sulaimon Olusesi, His Majesty expressed deep concern over the plight of those whose properties and livelihoods were impacted by the storm.
Describing the situation as “worrisome and sad,” particularly in light of the prevailing economic challenges facing the nation, the Olota extended his heartfelt sympathies to all affected individuals and families.
Furthermore, the Olota urged the government to take immediate action to address the aftermath of the storm and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Emphasising the importance of swift intervention, His Majesty called upon relevant authorities to prioritise the restoration of essential services and infrastructure in the affected areas.
Acknowledging the efforts of security agencies, notably the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE), and other stakeholders who promptly responded to the crisis, the Olota expressed gratitude for their commitment to assisting the affected communities.
The referred monarch also offered prayers for divine intervention, invoking the mercy of Eledumare for those directly and indirectly impacted by the disaster.
Otunba Gbenga Daniel, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and a respected leader within the Remo Christian community, has been honoured with the esteemed “Pillar of Development” award.
The award was presented at the 40th anniversary celebration of the Diocese of Remo (Anglican Communion), held at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul in Sagamu.
The ceremony, which took place on Sunday, April 14th, 2024, saw the former governor of Ogun State being recognized for his selfless, sacrificial, and unparalleled contributions to the growth and development of the Diocese of Remo. The certificate of recognition, signed by the Diocesan Bishop of Remo, The Most Rev. Dr. M. Olusina Fape, and presented by the wife of the Archbishop, Mrs. Toyin Fape, highlights Otunba Daniel’s remarkable dedication to humanitarian efforts within the community.
As the Asiwaju of Remo Christians and a distinguished Senator, Otunba Engr. Gbenga Daniel, FNSE, has long been known for his commitment to serving others and fostering positive change. His tireless efforts have touched the lives of countless individuals, earning him widespread admiration and respect.
Upon receiving the prestigious award, he expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed his commitment to continue working towards the betterment of the Diocese of Remo and the entire people of Ogun East. Ogidi Omo, as he is fondly called, also emphasized the importance of unity, collaboration, and collective action in addressing the challenges facing the state and driving sustainable development initiatives forward.
The “Pillar of Development” award bestowed upon Otunba Gbenga Daniel reinforces his significant contributions to the advancement of the Diocese of Remo.