The Netherlands has said yesterday that it was returning more than 100 artefacts “Benin Bronzes” to Nigeria that British troops looted in the late 19th century and ended up in a Dutch museum. British soldiers while on colonial expedition in Nigeria stole the ancient sculptures, including depictions of royal figures and animals, in 1897 from the Benin Kingdom in modern-day Nigeria.
The Federal Government has called on Nigerians to seek formal approval before using the national anthem, to avoid potential misuse or misinterpretation. The Director General of the National Orientation Agency, Lanre Issa-Onilu, emphasized the importance of obtaining permission from the agency before the anthem or its lyrics are used. “As custodians of Nigeria’s national symbols, the NOA is tasked with preventing all forms of misuse. Permission must be sought from the agency to avoid misrepresentation”. Issa-Onilu revealed that sensitization campaigns would soon be held across the 36 states of the federation to provide clarity on the agency’s new policies and guidelines.
The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, October t as a public holiday to commemorate the 64th Independence Day Anniversary. The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government. In a statement by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Magdalene Ajani, Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on this occasion. Tunji-Ojo praised the patient and hardworking Nigerian men and women, stating that their sacrifices will not be in vain.
The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed has appointed Haruna Danyaya as the new Emir of Ningi. This was announced in a statement issued on Sunday by the Special Adviser Media and Publicity to the Governor, Mukhtar Gidado.
The governments of Lagos, Osun, Oyo, and Ogun have declared Tuesday, 20 August, a public holiday to commemorate the Isese Day celebration. The announcements were contained in separate circulars on Monday by the commissioners of information for each state. Bode Agoro, the head of service in Lagos, said the decision further reaffirms Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor’s commitment to support traditional institutions and promote Indigenous traditions. Agoro added that public workers in the state are to resume by 8 a.m. on Wednesday.
Concerned by the daily increase in the cost of governance by the President Tinubu led-administration, an Akwa Ibom-based Socio-cultural Group, Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, has called on the government to fully implement Stephen Orosanye’s Report to free up resources in the country. The group, made their concern known through a communiqué issued at the end of its 54th General Assembly in Uyo, where they also called for a reduction in the size of the Federal Executive Council.
