Corporal Innocent Joseph and Lance Corporal Jacob Gani, have been found guilty and dismissed from service for theft of armoured cables at Dangote Refinery premises in Lagos State on April 14, 2024.

Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, announced this in a statement on Monday.

Nwachukwu claims that after a comprehensive investigation carried out in coordination with the Dangote Refinery management, it was discovered that Joseph and Gani had left their positions of responsibility and were in unlawful possession of the armoured cables.

He said: “Subsequently, they were both charged for Failure to Perform Military Duties punishable under section 57, sub section (1) and Other Civil Offences punishable under section 114, sub section (1) of the Armed Forces Act CAP A20, the Law of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

“They were summarily tried.

“During the trial, the evidence against them was presented and they were given the opportunity to present their cases and defend themselves, but were however found guilty of the charges levelled against them in accordance with military laws.”

Nwachukwu said as a demonstration of the zero-tolerance for misconduct and criminality within its ranks, the two soldiers have been dismissed from the Nigerian Army with immediate effect and handed over to relevant authorities for further prosecution.

He added: “This decisive action underscores the NA’s resoluteness in maintaining its institutional integrity and reputation.

“The NA reassures the general public of its dedication to upholding integrity, discipline and accountability at all levels.

“We remain resolute in our duty to protect and serve the nation with honour and dignity.

“We urge the public to continue to support our efforts in safeguarding national security and promoting peace and stability across the nation.”

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 mobilizing 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.

Emphasizing the importance of swift intervention, His Majesty called upon relevant authorities to prioritize 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.

The federal government says it has confirmed the commencement of loan disbursement process for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) and manufacturing sectors.

The effort is meant to stimulate industrial development and economic progress, according to a statement released on Monday by the minister of trade, industry, and investment’s office.

The ministry claims that N75 billion has been set aside for MSMEs and the manufacturing industry, respectively.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria is proud to announce the operational launch of the MSME and Manufacturing segment under the prestigious Presidential 200 Billion Naira Intervention Fund,” the ministry said.

“With applications for the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme now closed, we are excited to move forward with the loan disbursement process for the MSME and Manufacturing sectors, aimed at boosting economic growth and industrial development.

“This fund is strategically divided, dedicating 75 Billion Naira to MSMEs and another 75 Billion to the manufacturing sector.

“We are pleased to report that the initial disbursement to nano businesses has been met with success, and we are well on our way to supporting 1 million nano businesses throughout the country.

“Thousands of beneficiaries have already confirmed receipt with many more to come.

“We invite eligible enterprises to join this transformative initiative. To apply, please visit our official application portal at www.fedgrantandloan.gov.ng.

“Additionally, applicants seeking more detailed information should visit their local state Bank of Industry branch.”

CRITERIA FOR MSME LOANS UP TO N1M

• ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Must be an existing business in operation for at least one year, or a registered start-up.

Provide CAC business registration documents.

Present the company’s bank statement for existing businesses or the chief promoter’s bank statement for start-ups.

Fulfil the required monthly turnover and comply with other requirements as specified by the bank.

• SECURITY

Provide a personal guarantee of the promoter.

Agree to bank verification number (BVN) covenant.

Adhere to global standing instruction (GSI) and other securities as required by the bank.

• REPAYMENT FREQUENCY

Monthly equal instalments with no moratorium, spanning a 3-year term.

• CRITERIA FOR MANUFACTURER LOANS UP TO N1B

Asset financing comes with a 5-year repayment period, and working capital financing includes a 6-month moratorium on principal and interest, followed by a 12-month equal instalment repayment plan.

On April 16, FG commenced the disbursement process for the presidential conditional grant scheme to verified applicants.

President Bola Tinubu launched the scheme on October 17, 2023, to cushion the effects of the removal of petrol subsidy and other economic shocks.