Abia Vanguards News

28/08/2023

LAISON METERING LIMITED, a leading provider of smart water metering solutions, has recently implemented successful pilot projects for prepaid water meters in several water utility companies across Nigeria. These projects, which involved the use of innovative Laison Smart Water Meters, have been confirmed to be a credible roadmap to the successful implementation of prepaid water meter solutions.

One of the state water agencies that has witnessed the benefits of this technology is Imo State Water and Sewerage Corporation. They have implemented the Laison Smart Water Meters on their distribution networks and have been impressed with the performance and efficiency of these meters. The prepaid functionality has allowed the corporation to accurately monitor water consumption and effectively manage revenues, leading to reduced water losses and improved financial sustainability.

Another state water agency that has reaped the benefits of the Laison Smart Water Meters is Taraba State Water and Sewerage Corporation. By implementing these meters, they have seen a significant reduction in water wastage and unauthorized consumption. The prepaid functionality has also empowered consumers to better manage their water consumption and pay for their usage in a timely manner. This has led to an increase in revenue collection for the corporation, enabling them to invest in infrastructure upgrades and improve service delivery.

Delta State Urban Water Corporation has also embraced the Laison Smart Water Meters and has experienced positive results. These meters have not only enabled accurate measurement of water consumption but have also provided real-time data to monitor any irregularities or tampering. This has helped the corporation to curb water theft and improve the overall efficiency of their water distribution system.

Similarly, Osun State Water Corporation has implemented the Laison Smart Water Meters and has seen a drastic reduction in water losses. With the prepaid functionality, consumers have become more responsible for their water usage, resulting in reduced wastage and improved conservation efforts. The corporation has also been able to streamline its billing process and improve revenue collection.

Niger State Water and Sewerage Corporation is yet another example of a successful implementation of the Laison Smart Water Meters. These meters have effectively helped the corporation to address billing inaccuracies, improve revenue collection, and reduce water losses. The prepaid functionality has empowered consumers to actively monitor and control their water usage, leading to enhanced awareness and conservation efforts.

In addition to the above-mentioned state water agencies, Ekiti State Water Corporation has also adopted the Laison Smart Water Meters. With 4,800 meters installed on their distribution networks, they have witnessed satisfactory performance and have observed a significant reduction in water losses.

By implementing the Laison Smart Water Meters, these state water agencies in Nigeria have demonstrated the credibility and effectiveness of prepaid water metering solutions. The ability to accurately measure water consumption, curb water theft, reduce wastage, and improve revenue collection have been key factors driving the success of these pilot projects.

Overall, the use of Laison Smart Water Meters has provided a credible roadmap for water utility companies in Nigeria to successfully implement prepaid water metering solutions. The positive experiences of these state water agencies serve as valuable examples for other utilities to follow, leading to the efficient management of water resources, improved financial sustainability, and enhanced service delivery.

07/08/2023

🌟 Rise and shine, it's Monday! Let's kickstart this week with enthusiasm and determination. Remember, every new week brings new opportunities and possibilities. Let's make it a great one! 💪

06/08/2023

🌞 Good morning, everyone! 🌞

As the sun rises on this beautiful Sunday morning, remember that God's love and guidance never take a break, not even in August! 🙏 Embrace the new day with positivity and determination, for there's a world of possibilities waiting for you. Let's make this Sunday a day of inspiration, growth, and gratitude.

Take a moment to appreciate the blessings in your life, both big and small. Every day is a chance to start anew, to pursue your dreams, and to be a better version of yourself. 🌈 So, don't let the summer heat dull your enthusiasm. Instead, let it ignite the fire within you to achieve your goals and spread kindness to those around you.

Remember, even the tiniest acts of love and compassion can make a huge difference. 💕 Reach out to someone who needs a kind word or a helping hand today. Share your positivity and inspire others to do the same.

Let's kickstart this August Sunday with a heart full of hope and faith in ourselves and in a higher power that guides us. Trust in God's plan, stay true to your purpose, and embrace the endless possibilities that lie ahead. Together, we can make this Sunday and every day truly remarkable! 🌟

22/05/2023

*IGBOS MUST BE GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO PRODUCE THE NEXT SENATE PRESIDENT OF NIGERIA*

The Igbo Heroes Foundation led by its National Coordinator Prince Chinedu Afamuefuna Nsofor wishes to express deep worries over the plans of the ruling party to totally sideline the Igbos from the scheme of affairs in the next political dispensation in Nigeria. It is totally repugnant and completely appalling that the ruling party can claim that no Igbo man who supported their presidential aspirant is qualified to be the Senate President of Nigeria. Are Igbos this hated that they can't even trust one single Igbo man to be able to strike a balance in the power sharing equation of Nigeria.

The ruling All Progressive Congress has once again by this singular action, shown itself as a political party that doesn't value the citizens of Nigeria wherever they may come from. How can one explain this total display of insensitivity and sidelining of the entire Igbo race in their tens of millions. This clearly shows a political party that has never had touch with the people of Nigeria, but has always forced its way to the corridors of power by violence, voter intimidation and outright rigging of elections.

The ruling All Progressive Congress has further shown itself to be a Congress of selfish and heartless individuals parading themselves as leaders without consideration to the interest of an entire geopolitical zone.

This sustained hatrade by the APC against the Igbos has further explained why the Igbos never saw any light in that political party and has always voted in one direction against the APC since the amalgamation of this wicked political party.

The Igbo Heroes Foundation wishes to categorically state that the Igbos will not tolerate this wicked agenda to sideline the Igbos once again for the next four or eight years, depending on how long they plan to hold this country under total seige.

The Igbos across all party lines this time around will resist such attempt vehemently with everything we possess.

The APC is therefore advise to pick an Igbo man amongst it's midst and elect as the next Senate President of Nigeria or be ready to face the consequences of their prolonged wicked actions against the Igbo nation.

We hereby call on all Igbo sons and daughters at home and in diaspora to rise up and speak up against this wicked agenda of the APC to politically annihilate the Igbo Nation!

SIGNED

PRINCE CHINEDU AFAMUEFUNA NSOFOR
NATIONAL COORDINATOR IGBO HEROES FOUNDATION

09/05/2023

Emulate OBJ to concede Senate President to S/east, group tells Tinubu
By Comrade Murtala Mohammed 10 10

The President Elect Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu has been told by a group known Concerned Citizens For Greater Nigeria to quash any commitment he made with anybody elsewhere over Senate President slot and emulate former President Olusegun Obasanjo to concede Senate President slot to the Southeast geopolitical zone to avoid continued marginalization of zone considering the fact that the zone was further denied the chances of producing the President as well as the Vice President.

The Concerned Citizens in a Press briefing at their office in Abuja recalled that former President Olusegun Obasanjo in his wisdom allowed the Southeast to produce the Senate President all through his eight years in office to balance the sharing of positions of authority at the national level making sure that three top ranking positions were occupied by major tribes in Nigeria and it paid off in entrenching peace and stability in the country all through Obasanjo administration.

Convener and leader of the group Alhaji Murtala Mohammed alias ten ten made it known to the President Elect that he has to quash the commitment he made to the former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Godswill Akpabio from Southsouth over the Senate President slot and emulate Obasanjo to concede the Senate President to the Southeast because it is a working formula that ought not be changed for any reason adding that "it is not good to change a working formula that entrenched peace and stabilized the polity"

Alhaji ten ten explained to the President Elect that any attempt to deny Ndigbo the chance to occupy one of the top three positions in the country at this moment amount to deliberate neglect which will heighten the political acrimony among the youth over perceived neglect and marginalization of the Southeast zone in the corridor of power in the country.

The Professor of Psychology went further "Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State in an encounter said that the President Elect begged him to support Akpabio for Senate President because he has made commitment to Akpabio, we members of the Concerned Citizens for a Greater Nigeria therefore wish to advice the President Elect to quash that commitment and find somewhere to accommodate Senator Akpabio and allow the Southeast to produce the Senate President of the Senate

"Let the President Elect be told in bold letters and in a language he can understand that to continue to deny Ndigbo the chance to produce the President and Vice President and also deny them the chance to occupy third position of Senate President even upon the fact they have credible people that can comfortably occupy the position amount to injustice, neglect and marginalization taking too far and no right thinking Igbo person will condone it"

05/05/2023

*Orji Uzor Kalu: The Embodiment of Inclusive Leadership and Progress for Nigeria*

Orji Uzor Kalu (OUK), a highly accomplished and influential figure in Nigerian politics, stands as a compelling choice for the esteemed position of Senate President. His extensive political experience, unwavering dedication to national unity, commitment to economic development, and representation of the South East geopolitical zone make a strong case for his elevation to this pivotal office. By ensuring equitable representation for the South East, Nigeria's democracy would be strengthened, fostering national unity and inclusiveness across all regions.

Currently serving as the Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate, Kalu's role in maintaining order and discipline within the legislative chamber demonstrates his ability to lead and coordinate diverse groups of lawmakers. This critical experience further enhances his qualifications to become the Senate President, as it illustrates his capacity to manage the legislative process effectively and maintain a harmonious working environment among Senators.

Kalu's impressive track record as the former Governor of Abia State and a current Senator is a testament to his ability to lead and implement transformative policies. His governance and legislative accomplishments encompass key areas, including job creation, infrastructure development, and anti-corruption, all of which demonstrate his ability to effectively address pressing national challenges. As Senate President, Kalu would leverage his wealth of experience to push for legislative reforms that reflect the needs and aspirations of all Nigerians.

Kalu's unwavering commitment to national unity, promoting peace and understanding among Nigeria's diverse ethnic and religious groups, is a vital quality that makes him an ideal candidate. As Senate President, he would not only foster unity and collaboration among Senators and political parties but also ensure that the legislative process is effective, transparent, and beneficial to all Nigerians, irrespective of their regional affiliations.

Furthermore, Kalu's extensive experience in the business sector, as the founder of Slok Group, provides him with unique insights into the Nigerian economy and the need for economic diversification. As Senate President, he would prioritize the formulation and passage of legislation that supports economic growth, job creation, and the empowerment of Nigerian entrepreneurs. His intimate understanding of the private sector would help bridge the gap between government policies and the realities faced by businesses across the country.

Kalu's representation of the South East geopolitical zone is a crucial step towards redressing historical imbalances in Nigeria's political leadership. By empowering a leader from the South East like Kalu, Nigeria would be taking a significant step towards healing historical divides and ensuring that all citizens feel valued and included in the political process. His potential elevation to the office of Senate President would send a strong message that Nigeria is committed to addressing the concerns of all geopolitical zones and fostering a more inclusive political landscape, thereby promoting national unity and cohesion.

Moreover, Kalu's philanthropic spirit, evidenced by the Orji Uzor Kalu Foundation, demonstrates his deep-rooted concern for the welfare of Nigerians, particularly the underprivileged. As Senate President, he would use this same compassion to ensure that legislation reflects the needs and aspirations of all Nigerians, regardless of their socio-economic status.

In conclusion, Orji Uzor Kalu embodies the qualities of an inclusive, forward-thinking, and compassionate leader that Nigeria needs in the position of Senate President. His wealth of experience, dedication to national unity, commitment to economic development, and representation of the South East geopolitical zone, combined with his proven ability as the Chief Whip of the Nigerian Senate, make him an ideal candidate for this esteemed office. His elevation to the Senate Presidency would contribute to a more inclusive, diverse, and balanced political leadership in Nigeria, ultimately promoting national unity and the ideals of democracy.

14/04/2023

SENATOR KALU HAS CLINICAL UNDERSTANDING OF THE SENATE----NASSLAPF

The leadership of the National Assembly legislative Aide publishers Forum (NASSLAPF); has described the Chief Whip of the Senate Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, as a man with the Clinical understanding of the workings of the Nigeria Senate with the needed wits to tackle any legislative challenge when elected as the next Senate President in the 10th Assembly.

According to them, Nigeria does not need a Senate President that will reduce the prestige of the Nigerian Senate to Pedestrian business. Senator Kalu’s feat is bold and exceptional; from business to governance and politics. As a Governor, he made sweeping reforms that to date others are still building on as a promoter of inclusive politics.

The legislative Aide Publishers forum described the Chief Whip of the Senate as the most prepared for the job with a ready template for Nigeria to wean itself from the debilitating dependence on oil through appropriate legislative measures. He is also the most qualified with mild manners that can collaborate intellectually in establishing a harmonious relationship between the executive and the legislature. He has a clear-cut clinical knowledge of how to harmonize interest in ensuring a frictionless and tensionless Senate while pursuing the interest of the public.

The group in a statement signed by the media Aide to Senator Francis Alimikhena Mr. Benjamin Atu and publisher of NewsBreakInternational said other aspirants know Kalu is the best man for the job as a stabilizing figure. He represents a unifying figure in our quest for nationhood and qualitative leadership. “Even those contesting against him have admitted to his ingenuity in tackling serious national issues of urgent public importance that has ranked him above them.

“Trust and confidence in the integrity of Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has endeared him to other Senators as a huge social capital that will stabilize the erosion of distrust that always exist between leaders and the led”.

“The Statement further described Senator Orji Uzor Kalu as a forthright and vibrant parliamentarian saying under his leadership, Nigeria will witness an unrestrained and cultured Senate that will be driven by the rule of law without any desire to run a personalize or a privatized Senate.”

07/04/2023

Who is to blame?

07/04/2023

10th Senate Presidency: Bishop Eke Backs Orji Kalu, Tells Tinubu, APC To Avoid Sycophants

​Bishop Silas Eke of Kingly People’s Assembly, today, said it is supporting the emergence of the current Chief Whip of the Senate, Orji Uzor Kalu as next Senate President for the 10th Assembly.

Eke, in a chat with newsmen at Akanu Ibiam International Airport Enugu, explained that it is only fair that the next Senate President emerges from the South East, adding that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu must shun sycophants and rally round the former Abia State Governor to emerge as the next Senate President.

Eke maintained that Kalu has demonstrated great leadership acumen and managerial skills needed of a modern day Nigerian leader, stressing that his achievement as the current Chief Whip of the Senate and senator representing Abia North Senatorial District speaks volume about his capacity.

He said: "Beyond consideration of South East for the position, the President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) must avoid sycophants and rally round Senator Orji Uzor Kalu to emerge as the next Senate President. In Kalu, we shall have a Senate President with the needed national appeal and sophisticated contacts that would help the incoming government set the ball rolling."

He advised the president-elect to see all Nigerians as his constituency, urging him to design policies and programmes to better their lots.

Eke urged Tinubu not to use his time as president to settle political scores.

He also advised Tinubu to choose his cabinet members on merit, urging him to shun mediocrity and partisanship, urging him to avoid those he called "agents of division and sycophants” if he wants to succeed.

Eke said Tinubu would make a difference if he avoid such people during his tenure.

Eke said: “To make a difference, you must do things differently. You must embrace every section of the country irrespective of tribe and religion. You cannot continue with the old ways and be different.

“Tinubu must develop the will to be tenacious, unbendable and resolute in your convictions. For example, people would try to tell him that the Igbos didn't vote for him, because of that they should be humiliated and shut out; people like that are the real enemies of Nigeria and agents of division. Our president-elect should avoid people like that for peace and stability," he said.

06/04/2023

Senate President: South-East good to go – Shehu Sani Published on April 6, 2023 By Samson Atekojo Usman

Social activist Shehu Sani on Thursday said the office of the Senate President should be zoned to the South East.

Sani, who represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District in the 8th Senate, during an interview with DAILY POST in Abuja on Thursday said the South East has senators that are competent enough to be Senate President, if the rules of the Red Chamber, particularly the ranking norm, were to be considered.

The present structure of the APC, he observed, has naturally positioned the South East to produce the 10th Senate President.

Speaking further, he said the former governor of Abia State and senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, Orji Uzor Kalu, should be considered for the position.

Senator Sani said: “The Senate Presidency should go to the South East for equity and justice.

There is no better person to stabilise the National Assembly and maintain balance like Orji Uzor Kalu [who] has demonstrated his flair as Chief Whip of the Senate.

“I’m not of the APC, but I think he remains the best option out of those who offered themselves. Kalu has the experience and the pedigree as well.”

Meanwhile, some returnee senators and first timers have indicated interest to contest for the Office of the Senate President ahead of inauguration in the first week of June

05/04/2023

02/04/2023

Senate Presidency: APC group backs Senator Kalu says he's most qualified, committed to party, National dev'lt

More groups have continued to throw their weight behind the ambition of the Senate Chief Whip, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu to chair the 10th Senate , latest among them is prominent support group of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) under the Auspices of United Nigeria Movement who have endorsed the former Abia Governor to become the Senate president of the 10th National Assembly.

Rising from a Congress held in Kano state over the weekend, the group in a communique signed by its Secretary Abdullahi Nuhu asked the party's leadership and its President elect, Asiwaju Tinubu to without hesitation zone the position of the Senate President to the South East.

Harping on national interests of peace, stability and unity the party faithfuls explained that the Southeast having missed out in producing the No1 citizen of the country despite the agitation for Equity and Fairness should be compensated with the position of the President.

Further pressing their request, Nuhu named the Abia-North Senator as the most qualified to preside over the 10th Senate stating that being a high ranking law maker with executive and parliamentary leadership experiences he is most qualified to head the Red chambers.

Apart from Kalu's devotion to party loyalty and national unity, the group also stressed the need to balance the political equation of the country under the administration of the President-elect, the Jagaban, Asiwaju Tinubu by giving a sense of belonging to the South-East especially of Igbo extraction by unanimously endorsing Distinguished Senator Kalu to be next Senate President unopposed.

The statement read partly;

The president elect (Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu), the national party leadership and all other stakeholders MUST in the national interests of peace, stability and unity in the next democratic dispensation to commence May 29 2023, zone the position of the Senate President to the South East.

"The Chief Whip of the Senate of the 9 National Assembly, Distinguished Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who won re-election to once again, represent Abia North in the Red Chamber in the upcoming 10" National Assembly being a high ranking law maker from the SouthEast is the right person for the Senate Presidency not only because he is from South-East and is an Igbo man but most importantly because of his wealth of experience in the Senate, leadership skills and good relations with all parts of the country having schooled in Maiduguri, Borno State and established his business first in Lagos and spread it across all the state capitals of the federation. Thus, we fondly nicknamed him Mr. Nigeria.

"As APC members and well meaning Nigerians, we are highly concerned about the urgent need to balance the political equation of this country under the able leadership of the President-elect, the Jagaban, Asiwaju Tinubu by carrying along our brothers in the South-East especially of Igbo extraction by honorably and unanimously given Distinguished Senator Kalu the chance to be next Senate President unopposed. This will no doubt give everybody a sense of belonging in this country and promote the much-needed political stability in the polity as we are about to witness the first Muslim president and Muslim vice-president administration since the return to democracy in the ongoing 4" Republic.

"Considering the legislative dexterity, intellectual capacity, moral groundings, listening habit and simplicity of the Distinguished Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, we are convinced that he is the most qualified of all the aspirants of the Senate Presidency Chair. Therefore, we wish to call on all the contestants, all the Senators-elect across all political parties, the incumbent president Muhammadu Buhari, the president in waiting, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, APC national leadership and all the well-meaning Nigerians to as a matter of patriotism support the candidature of Kalu for Senate President in unison and unconditionally.