HammerTimes News Online

Tag: Stakeholders

  • Stakeholders propose transition of HND programme to BTech

    Stakeholders in the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector have proposed the transition of Higher National Diploma (HND) to Bachelor of Technology (BTech).
    They stakeholders said this in Abuja on Tuesday at a One-Day National Dialogue on the Future of Higher National Diploma (HND) in the Nigerian educational landscape.
    They also called on the Federal Government to assent to the bill which sought to remove the dichotomy between Bachelors degree and HND.
    The Executive Secretary, National Board for Technical Education, Prof. Idris Bugaje said the dialogue was apt as it would foster an opportunity to address pressing issues that had persisted for decades.
    “Despite the pivotal role it plays, the HND qualification, earned after five years of rigorous study and internship, continues to face unwarranted discrimination within the Nigerian public service.
    “Even in the face of concerted efforts, including proposed legislation and appeals from students and staff unions, the discrimination against HND holders persists,” he said.
    Bugaje said that earlier this year, the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria (PCN) had highlighted a 22-year-old issue regarding HND Pharmacy Technology, which was effectively resolved by the Minister of State for Education.
    Also, the President, Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics, Philip Ogunsipe said the discrimination was basically a function of societal acceptance of HND.
    Ogunsipe said for the problems to be solved, the discrimination should be taken care of in the bill before being assented into law.
    “Once the bill is assented to and the discrimination in the HND programme is resolved and finally passed into law, we will not have any challenge with this age long problem,” he said.
    Ogunsipe also explained that the polytechnics sector must think outside the box and find a way of having programmes exclusively run by polytechnics.
    He urged the NBTE to strengthen its supervisory role saying that infrastructure in some polytechnics were in awful state and needed urgent attention.
    In the same vein, the Minister of State for Education, Dr Yusuf Sununu commended NBTE for taking the bull by the horns by bringing to national consciousness, the need to embrace the global movement for skills acquisition by HND holders.
    Sununu expressed hope that the dialogue would come up with reasons that would not only change the age-long belief on the so- called superiority of other qualifications over HND.
    He said it would also show that Nigeria, more than ever before needed HND holders for national development.
    The President, Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Shammah Kpanja said the discrimination is not only on students or academics but affects the sector in its entirety.
    Kpanja explained that if the polytechnics must be attractive, transition of HND to BTech must be welcomed.
    He said that the Nigerian polytechnics must offer BTech strictly for HND students while also saying that the certificate must be specialised.
    In the same vein, the Chairman, Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), Prof. Tunji Olaopa said the sector must revisit the recommendations of the Conference of Heads of Polytechnics and Colleges of Education in 2017.
    “COHEADS recommended the conversation and upgrading of polytechnics to campuses of their consummate universities while the largest polytechnics in each of the geo-political zones be converted into full fledged universities of technology.
    “In so doing it will be a game changer and I believe to achieve the purpose, HND ought to be scrapped while the National Diploma should be retained as qualifying certificate for entrance into new and old university of technology,” Olaopa said.
    He added that this would help resolve the lingering professional war between BSC and HND without totally rendering and distorting their originating mandate. (NAN)

  • HPV: Stakeholders calls for prioritisation of vaccination for Girls

     

     

    Stakeholders have called for the  prioritisation of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination among Nigerian girls aged 9 to 14 to combat the virus and promote mental well-being in the country.

     

    They made this known during an advocacy event held at the Angwan Hausawa Community, Apo, on Saturday in Abuja.

     

    The event was organised by the Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI), the Vaccine Network for Disease Control (VNDC), and the Nigerian Psychological Association – FCT Chapter.

     

    Mrs Chika Offor, Founder of VNDC, highlighted the critical role of vaccination in averting HPV-related diseases, notably cervical cancer. Amidst mounting concerns surrounding HPV prevalence and its associated health risks, Offor emphasised the imperative of early immunization as a proactive measure against HPV-related cancers.

     

    She acknowledged the obstacles hindering high vaccination coverage rates in the country, citing limited awareness, cultural beliefs, and logistical challenges as primary factors contributing to low uptake rates, particularly among adolescent girls.

     

    “We are steadfast in our commitment to educating communities about the profound benefits of HPV vaccination and dispelling prevalent misconceptions,” she stated.

     

    “By targeting girls between the ages of 9 and 14, Nigeria can optimise vaccine efficacy and substantially diminish their susceptibility to HPV-related ailments,” she added.

     

     

    HPV Vaccine

     

    In addition to advocating for vaccination, the event addressed the pressing issue of mental health within the community.

     

    Dr Jurbe Simon Bisji, Assistant General Secretary of the Nigerian Psychological Association (NPA), highlighted the pivotal role of community support in nurturing mental well-being.

     

    Bisji advocated for open dialogues, supportive environments, and resource exchange to foster a culture of emotional resilience.

     

    “As individuals navigate the complexities of modern life, community support serves as a cornerstone in promoting mental wellness,” he affirmed.

     

    He said  that by fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment, communities can collectively prioritise mental health and create a conducive environment for seeking assistance and sharing experiences.

     

    Furthermore, Prof. Emmanuel Alhassan, Nigeria Coordinator for Prevent Epidemics/Immunization Programmes at GHAI, underscored the paramount importance of education, particularly for girls, as a catalyst for societal progress and economic prosperity.

     

    Alhassan, who is also an Associate Professor of Psychology at Nasarawa State University Keffi (NSUK), encouraged the community to invest in girls’ education, noting its transformative impact on future generations and the broader community.

     

    “Empowering girls through education not only unlocks their potential but also fosters societal growth and development,” he remarked.

     

    He reiterated GHAI’s unwavering commitment to advancing public health initiatives and promoting holistic well-being within Nigerian communities.

     

    “Through collaborative efforts and targeted interventions, GHAI aims to mitigate the impact of HPV, bolster mental health resilience, and empower future generations to thrive in a healthier, more equitable society. When you educate a child, you are building a better, brighter world,” he said.

     

    Meanwhile, Dr Mustapha Lecky, Coordinator of the Health Sector Reform Coalition (HSRC), emphasized the paramount need to improve health insurance coverage in Nigerian communities. (NAN)

  • Commission restates commitment to ensure effective use of energy on cooling systems

    By NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA 
    The Director-General of Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Mr Mustapha Abdullahi has restated the commitment of the commission to ensure effective use of energy on air conditioners and other cooling systems in the country.
    Abdullahi stated this at a meeting of stakeholders on scaling up of the energy efficient cooling systems in Abuja.
    “The aim is  far-fetch, and not very much something that is hidden, but definitely to improve the energy efficient cooling system like the refrigerator that we have at home.
    “Studies have been conducted and we have seen that up to 60 per cent of the energy that is being consumed at home happens to be the refrigerator and the cooling system.
    “And because we want to save energy, we want Nigerians to spend lesser in energy consumption. We have now developed this particular concept called Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS).
    “The MEPS aims to reduce the energy consumption, emission, and the cooling system, and increase their efficiency in cooling system. We don’t intend to face out the entire cooling systems that we have today.
    “We have development partners that have also pledged to give some incentives. So, we are going to ensure that Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) ensure standards according to the MEPS we produced.
    “We will also make sure that the cost of what is coming to the market is reduced. There will be incentives for people to replace what they have. Also, we are talking to the Federal Government to assist in replacements as an incentives.
    “Hopefully, we will get some cooling systems replaced free of charge, without spending anything, just to keep our environment clean and also increase efficiency,” Abdullahi said.
    The ECN boss explained that the next step is awareness programme, which would be launched, adding that the programme would go the grassroot, educate people and give them incentives to promote the cooling system.
    He further said that all the cooling systems in the country were imported.
    “However, we are discussing with the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mr Uche Nnaji, with the hope that, soon we will have fully domesticated air conditioners that the country will adopt.
    “We will create a master plan on how to face the old ones out and replace them with energy efficient cooling system,” he said.
    Also speaking, Mr Lawal Ismilia, the Head of Electrical Electronics at SON said the project is very important to Nigeria.
    “As SON, we are in charge of coordinating the activities of standards development. In the meeting, we are trying to see how we need to prove on the efficiency of air conditioners in Nigeria.
    “We have to review the standards so that air conditioners will use less energy for effective cooling. That is why we need to involve stakeholders to ensure that we review these standards to meet international best practices.
    “Energy is important, so we need to manage it. We want to ensure that we use less energy, and also use it for industrialisation. We also want to ensure that the emission is ozone layers friendly,” Ismilia said. (NAN)

  • Female Guber candidate advocates breaking of barriers for women in leadership

    By Emmanuel Oloniruha, NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA 
    The People’s Redemption Party (PRP) Governorship Candidate for Edo, Madam Patience Key, urged stakeholders to create a favourable environment where women could participate in politics and attain leadership positions in every aspect of life.
    She said that if the atmosphere is favourable to women they would confidently participate in leadership without barriers.
    Key, also known as ‘Uwagboe’, in a statement issued on Sunday, in Abuja, to celebrate Mother’s Day, urged stakeholders to strengthen women who aspire to achieve their full potential without limitations.
    “On this special day, let us renew our commitment to creating environments that support and strengthen the leadership of women, acknowledging the roles they play in nurturing our society.
    “It’s not about the party lines that divide us but about the people who unite us.
    “It is about creating a landscape where women can lead with confidence, participate without barriers, and aspire without limitations.
    “Let us continue to dismantle the barriers that prevent women from fully participating in all aspects of life.
    “Let us pledge to empower the next generation of women to rise without limits, to dream without barriers, and to lead with assurance that their voices are not just heard but are influential,” Key said.
    She described Mother’s Day as a day to acknowledge and empower every woman and girl whose resilience, wisdom, and compassion mould the communities and inspire lives.
    “Let us continue to champion the cause of women, ensuring they have a seat at every table and a voice in every conversation.
    “Together, we can build a society that does not just celebrate women on Mother’s Day but respects, values, and elevates women every day.
    “This is the world we strive for, and this is the world we can achieve, with women leading alongside men, as equals, as partners, as leaders,” key said.
    The PRP governorship candidate, celebrating mothers said that across Nigeria, women had continue to break barriers and redefine norms in every sphere including politics, education, health and business.
    “Globally, women are at the forefront of addressing some of the most pressing challenges of the time, from climate change to political instability, showing an unparalleled knack for leadership that is both transformative and inclusive women’s ability to lead with empathy.
    “Women have also demonstrated abilities to negotiate peace, to drive innovation, and to sustain cultures, not just to their communities or countries but to the entire fabric of the world,” she said.
    While commending the enduring spirit and boundless dedication of Edo women, Key described them as the custodians of culture, the pioneers of change, and the guardians of the future.
    She said that their hands had not only rocked the cradles but also built the edifice of the society.
    Key also commended the courage of Edo women especially Omosede Igbinedion, Dr Victoria Amu and Dr Loretta Oko, who stood as governorship aspirants in the Edo 2024 elections.
    She said though their paths in political endeavours were in different parties, their shared commitment to the empowerment and develop Edo community bonded them together.
    “You have demonstrated immense dedication and leadership, which have not only inspired many but have also laid a foundation of hope and resilience. I am honoured to have contested alongside such exemplary leaders.
    “In our diverse journeys, these women have proved that leadership knows no boundaries and is truly about serving the people.
    “As the only female governorship candidate in the Edo 2024 election, I stand on a platform that believes deeply in the power of people.
    “PRP is a testament to our commitment to democracy that is built from the ground up, reflective of every citizen’s voice,” she said.
    Key urged Edo and Nigeria women to let Mother’s Day be a reminder of their inherent power, undeniable potential, and indispensable role in shaping a better world.
    “You are not just making history; you are crafting the future. May we all draw inspiration from your strength, and may your light continue to guide us forward.”

  • Female Guber candidate advocates breaking of barriers for women in leadership

    By Emmanuel Oloniruha, NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA 
    The People’s Redemption Party (PRP) Governorship Candidate for Edo, Madam Patience Key, urged stakeholders to create a favourable environment where women could participate in politics and attain leadership positions in every aspect of life.
    She said that if the atmosphere is favourable to women they would confidently participate in leadership without barriers.
    Key, also known as ‘Uwagboe’, in a statement issued on Sunday, in Abuja, to celebrate Mother’s Day, urged stakeholders to strengthen women who aspire to achieve their full potential without limitations.
    “On this special day, let us renew our commitment to creating environments that support and strengthen the leadership of women, acknowledging the roles they play in nurturing our society.
    “It’s not about the party lines that divide us but about the people who unite us.
    “It is about creating a landscape where women can lead with confidence, participate without barriers, and aspire without limitations.
    “Let us continue to dismantle the barriers that prevent women from fully participating in all aspects of life.
    “Let us pledge to empower the next generation of women to rise without limits, to dream without barriers, and to lead with assurance that their voices are not just heard but are influential,” Key said.
    She described Mother’s Day as a day to acknowledge and empower every woman and girl whose resilience, wisdom, and compassion mould the communities and inspire lives.
    “Let us continue to champion the cause of women, ensuring they have a seat at every table and a voice in every conversation.
    “Together, we can build a society that does not just celebrate women on Mother’s Day but respects, values, and elevates women every day.
    “This is the world we strive for, and this is the world we can achieve, with women leading alongside men, as equals, as partners, as leaders,” key said.
    The PRP governorship candidate, celebrating mothers said that across Nigeria, women had continue to break barriers and redefine norms in every sphere including politics, education, health and business.
    “Globally, women are at the forefront of addressing some of the most pressing challenges of the time, from climate change to political instability, showing an unparalleled knack for leadership that is both transformative and inclusive women’s ability to lead with empathy.
    “Women have also demonstrated abilities to negotiate peace, to drive innovation, and to sustain cultures, not just to their communities or countries but to the entire fabric of the world,” she said.
    While commending the enduring spirit and boundless dedication of Edo women, Key described them as the custodians of culture, the pioneers of change, and the guardians of the future.
    She said that their hands had not only rocked the cradles but also built the edifice of the society.
    Key also commended the courage of Edo women especially Omosede Igbinedion, Dr Victoria Amu and Dr Loretta Oko, who stood as governorship aspirants in the Edo 2024 elections.
    She said though their paths in political endeavours were in different parties, their shared commitment to the empowerment and develop Edo community bonded them together.
    “You have demonstrated immense dedication and leadership, which have not only inspired many but have also laid a foundation of hope and resilience. I am honoured to have contested alongside such exemplary leaders.
    “In our diverse journeys, these women have proved that leadership knows no boundaries and is truly about serving the people.
    “As the only female governorship candidate in the Edo 2024 election, I stand on a platform that believes deeply in the power of people.
    “PRP is a testament to our commitment to democracy that is built from the ground up, reflective of every citizen’s voice,” she said.
    Key urged Edo and Nigeria women to let Mother’s Day be a reminder of their inherent power, undeniable potential, and indispensable role in shaping a better world.
    “You are not just making history; you are crafting the future. May we all draw inspiration from your strength, and may your light continue to guide us forward.”

  • FRSC seeks synergy with transport stakeholders to reduce road crashes

    The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), has advocated for more collaboration with stakeholders in the transport sector to minimise rate of accidents on Nigerian roads.

    According to reports, the FRSC engages stakeholders in Sokoto to reduce overloading of animals, goods and passengers in trucks and other vehicles towards curbing accidents.

    Speaking at a sensitisation held at Sokoto Central Garage on Monday, the FRSC Sector Commander in the state, Mr Abdullahi Maikano, said the exercise was part of Corps Marshal’s initiative across the nation.

    Maikano said the effort was to mitigate road crashes, fatalities and fire outbreaks by trailers conveying human beings and animals.

    He explained that the engagement was aimed at educating drivers, owners of trailers and trucks as well as traders on the need to be safety conscious at all times.

    The commander frowned at the increasing cases of overloading of vehicles particularly with goods, animals and passengers.

    At the Sokoto State Transport Authority (SSTA) garage, Maikano warned the drivers against dangers of night travelling, overloading, projected loads, over-speeding and carrying of extra fuel in their vehicles.

    He stressed the need for drivers to avoid carrying fuel while embarking on any journey, “because it leads to many fatalities, therefore, I urge you to abide by road traffic regulations.”

    The sector commander further called on all categories of drivers to ensure proper condition of vehicles, cooperate with officials of government controlled agencies, obey patrol officials and adhere to user guides.

    In his address, the Secretary of Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in the state, Alhaji Muhammad Labaran, thanked the corps marshal, Mr Dauda Ali-Biu for the campaign and promised the union resolve to cooperate with the corps to achieve safety on the roads.

    Speaking also, the Chairman of Truck Drivers’ Union, Sokoto State Chapter, Alhaji Buhari Habibu, underscored the importance of the campaign for the protection of lives and property.

    The General Manager, SSTA, Alhaji Ibrahim Muhammad expressed  appreciation to FRSC and called on drivers to abide by all safety rules and regulations, while promising to enforce the instructions, teachings and knowledge on their members.

    According to reports the exercise featured questions and answers as well as demonstration of safety guides.

  • Gov. Sule tasks Nasarawa APC stakeholders on unity

    By Awayi Kuje, NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA 
    Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has tasked the state All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders to unite and make the party stronger.
    Sule said this when he spoke at a stakeholders meeting in Lafia on Monday.
    This he said, would enable the party win future elections in the state.
    The governor also urged party members to be patient in terms of political appointments among others while assuring those who were yet to get appointments of better days ahead.
    Sule highlighted some of his achievements in the areas of education, health, infrastructure, payment of gratuity and pensions among others.
    He said that his administration had done well promising to continue to execute good policies and programmes that would have direct bearing on the lives of the people of the state.
    Also speaking, Mr Danladi Jatau, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly commended the party leadership for organising the meeting.
    ” We are here to discuss and improve our party as APC is the leading political party in the country,” he said.
    ” There must be discipline in the party for the progress of our great party, APC,” he said.
    Jatau urged the stakeholders to educate the people on Sule’s achievements  in order to woo more people into the party.
    The speaker commended Sule for his developmental strides across the state.
    He assured of the 7th Assembly’s commitment  under his leadership to give the governor maximum support to succeed.
    ” We will always be there for you for the progress and development of the state,” he said.
    Prof. Abdulkarim Kana, the National Legal Adviser of APC, appreciated the stakeholders for their continued support for the party.
    He urged the stakeholdersto remain united to win future elections in the state and the country at large.
    The legal adviser described Sule as one of the best governors the state had produced so far.

  • Education reforms: Stakeholders demand review of NECO laws

    Stakeholders in the education sector have called for a thorough review of existing laws governing the National Examination Council (NECO).
    The review according to them would instigate reforms that reflected the technological advancements and evolving needs of the educational landscape.
    They made the call in Abuja on Monday, at a one-day retreat by NECO.
    The retreat is titled “Legislative Functions: The Imperatives of Achieving NECO’s Mandate and the Challenges of Examination Legislation in Nigeria”.
    Speaking at the event, Gov. Mohammed Bago of Niger state emphasised the need to look into the existing laws that guide NECO in the conduct of its various examinations to address issues of artificial intelligence.
    “Artificial intelligence has come to stay, so our law must also be able to key into this technological advancement. So this retreat is timely.
    “I only call on NECO and stakeholders to expand it beyond this hall.
    “So that other stakeholders will have input and also be able to come out with a robust policy and laws in order to be sent to national assembly,” Bago said.
    On his part, the Registrar of NECO, Prof. Ibrahim Wushishi, said the challenges in fulfilling NECO’s mandate highlighted the critical need for a robust legislative framework.
    Wushishi identified infrastructural constraints, surge in candidate enrolment, inadequate funding, examination malpractice, amongst others as some of the key hurdles faced by the examination body.
    He also stressed the need for a review of the existing laws of the Council.
    Also speaking, the Minister of State for Education, Dr Yusuf Sununu, called for an urgent need to review and modernise the legislative framework to effectively address some of the challenges to enable NECO effectively achieve its mandate.
    Sununu was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Didi Walson-Jack.
    “NECO plays an indispensable role in ensuring the sustainable management of our educational landscape.
    “In spite of the significance of the examination legislation, we cannot ignore the challenges we face, from outdated laws and validation to emerging issues like examination malpractice and digital transformation.
    “There’s an urgent need to review and modernise the legislative framework to effectively address these challenges,” he added.(NAN)

  • Education reforms: Stakeholders demand review of NECO laws

    Stakeholders in the education sector have called for a thorough review of existing laws governing the National Examination Council (NECO).
    The review according to them would instigate reforms that reflected the technological advancements and evolving needs of the educational landscape.
    They made the call in Abuja on Monday, at a one-day retreat by NECO.
    The retreat is titled “Legislative Functions: The Imperatives of Achieving NECO’s Mandate and the Challenges of Examination Legislation in Nigeria”.
    Speaking at the event, Gov. Mohammed Bago of Niger state emphasised the need to look into the existing laws that guide NECO in the conduct of its various examinations to address issues of artificial intelligence.
    “Artificial intelligence has come to stay, so our law must also be able to key into this technological advancement. So this retreat is timely.
    “I only call on NECO and stakeholders to expand it beyond this hall.
    “So that other stakeholders will have input and also be able to come out with a robust policy and laws in order to be sent to national assembly,” Bago said.
    On his part, the Registrar of NECO, Prof. Ibrahim Wushishi, said the challenges in fulfilling NECO’s mandate highlighted the critical need for a robust legislative framework.
    Wushishi identified infrastructural constraints, surge in candidate enrolment, inadequate funding, examination malpractice, amongst others as some of the key hurdles faced by the examination body.
    He also stressed the need for a review of the existing laws of the Council.
    Also speaking, the Minister of State for Education, Dr Yusuf Sununu, called for an urgent need to review and modernise the legislative framework to effectively address some of the challenges to enable NECO effectively achieve its mandate.
    Sununu was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Didi Walson-Jack.
    “NECO plays an indispensable role in ensuring the sustainable management of our educational landscape.
    “In spite of the significance of the examination legislation, we cannot ignore the challenges we face, from outdated laws and validation to emerging issues like examination malpractice and digital transformation.
    “There’s an urgent need to review and modernise the legislative framework to effectively address these challenges,” he added.(NAN)

  • Benue Govt. to construct 50 roads in 12 months

    Gov. Hyacinth Alia of Benue says the state government will award contracts for the construction 50 roads to be completed in the next 12 months.
    Alia made the announcement on Tuesday during the All Progressives Congress (APC) Critical Stakeholders Meeting, held at the Government House in Makurdi.
    He said the Ministry of Works and Urban Development was working on the details of the project, which was meant to ease movement and transportation of agricultural produce to improve the economy.
    He said the ongoing construction of the two underpass in Makurdi and Gboko would be completed in the coming months.
    Alia added that work on the 16 roads in Makurdi and within Zone A, as well as renovation of the 40 years old State Secretariat, and the State Assembly has reached 90 per cent completion.
    The governor also said the administration would strive to greatly address the issue of postharvest losses, so that farmers would smile to the bank.
    He said agriculture was not just a way of life but a means of livilihood and urged all citizens to embrace it.
    Alia added that in the coming weeks, the government would unveil a security outfit of 10,000 personnel to improve security in the state.
    He also said the long abandoned students scholarship would be reintroduced in May.
    Alia told the APC stakeholders that Tiv Traditional Rulers had reconciled him and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume.
    He said that during the meeting both of them spoke from their hearts and resolved all issues.
    “If you are day dreaming of the division of the APC in Benue, wake up, the train of the APC is one, moving and moving fast.
    “We were invited by our Tiv Traditional fathers to find out about what they kept reading in the news about the issues between us.
    “We spoke from our hearts and they advised us, they initiated peace that was near eluding us, I embraced my big brother the SGF, and behold there was peace.
    “So, let no one from any quarter be deceived that APC in the state is divided, no we are not; under my leadership as a man of peace, there must be peace,” he added.
    In his remarks, Sen. Barnabas Gemade said elders in the state have unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the governor.
    Gemade said as elders, all they needed to do now was to advise the younger ones to succeed.
    Also, Mr Hingah Biem, commended the governor for the strides in infrastructural development and urged him to do more.
    Earlier, the Acting State Chairman of APC, Mr Benjamin Omakolo, said the party has been united.
    He assured that the APC would provide level playing ground to all aspirants for the forthcoming council polls.