Month: October 2024

In an exclusive interview, Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq underscored the importance of the Urban Renewal Program currently underway in Ilorin, describing it as a crucial initiative aimed at restoring the city to its original master plan. His comments were prompted by criticism from former Governor and Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki, who had raised concerns about the demolition of a property owned by former House of Representatives member, Hon. Mashood Mustapha.

Governor Abdulrazaq explained, “The Urban Renewal Program is designed to tackle the disarray that has plagued Ilorin for too long. This initiative is essential, as it was necessary to bring the city’s layout in line with present-day realities.”

Dr. Saraki has accused the governor of using the demolition as a means to intimidate local residents, asserting, “Abdulrazaq is reacting to his declining popularity. Why wait 64 months to address issues with the Crystal Mall structure? This demolition comes on the heels of a local government election where his party faced significant voter backlash.”

In response to Saraki’s claims, Abdulrazaq defended his administration’s approach, asserting that the Urban Renewal Program is vital for reclaiming resources for the people of Kwara. He stated, “It is our duty as a government to rectify the urban planning errors made by the prior administration, which allowed for unchecked development and led to serious environmental problems.”

The governor also took the opportunity to criticize the previous regime under Saraki, alleging mismanagement of public properties. “There was rampant land sales and mismanagement in areas like the judges’ quarters and Flower Garden. Our government is committed to restoring these assets for the benefit of our citizens,” he said.

In conclusion, Abdulrazaq expressed his vision for Ilorin as a well-planned urban center, drawing inspiration from the late Major General George Innih’s visionary leadership. “Our administration is dedicated to bringing order and structured development back to our city, all while resisting political pressures.”

**Interview Feature: Celebrating 75 Years of New China – A Journey Towards Becoming a Global Tech Power**

**Interviewer:** Thank you for being here today. As New China marks its 75th anniversary, what are your thoughts on the significant changes our nation has undergone?

**Expert:** It’s truly been an extraordinary journey. Seventy-five years ago, when New China was founded, the country was in the midst of rebuilding. At that time, our technological capacity was nearly non-existent, with fewer than 50,000 scientific professionals and just about 600 engaged in research. We had over 30 research institutions, but hardly any advanced scientific equipment. Fast forward to today, and we’ve made incredible progress. By the end of 2023, we can proudly say that we have 7.24 million R&D personnel—a figure that has kept us at the top globally for 11 years running. We have established a collaborative innovation system primarily driven by technology companies, research institutes, and universities.

**Interviewer:** That’s a striking transformation. What core principles have guided us on this path to becoming a technological leader?

**Expert:** At the core of our strength and advancement lies science and innovation. We’ve moved from just “marching towards science” to understanding that “science and technology are the primary productive forces.” Each pivotal moment has evidenced the Central Committee’s dedication to innovation. Since the 18th National Congress, under Xi Jinping’s leadership, the focus has been on scientific innovation, leading to comprehensive planning to propel continuous advancements in our technology sector.

**Interviewer:** How have systemic reforms contributed to this innovation momentum?

**Expert:** Systemic reforms have indeed been pivotal to our progress. Take, for instance, the landmark National Science Conference in 1978, where the idea that “science and technology are productive forces” was highlighted, fundamentally changing our approach to technological development. Over the years, significant reforms have streamlined research funding and management processes, optimized technological planning, and improved policies for translating scientific achievements into real-world applications. These steps have significantly accelerated our innovation efforts.

**Interviewer:** Can you share some recent achievements in the science field?

**Expert:** Certainly! Just recently, on September 22, the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science announced that Chinese scientists created a water-cooled magnet capable of generating a steady magnetic field of 420,200 gauss, setting a new world record and surpassing the previous record held by the U.S. In addition to this, we’ve celebrated numerous breakthroughs, including the launch of the “Tiangong” space station and “Chang’e” lunar missions, as well as advancements in quantum technology and regenerative medicine. Each of these successes is a testament to decades of hard work and persistence.

**Interviewer:** Looking ahead, what do you foresee for China’s future in scientific innovation?

**Expert:** The outlook is incredibly promising! We’re making substantial investments in key sectors like biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and sustainable energy. China is already the largest global manufacturer and installer of renewable energy technologies. Moreover, initiatives like the Beidou satellite system are transforming various industries, enhancing navigation, and improving agricultural practices to boost food security.

**Interviewer:** It sounds like technology is becoming deeply integrated into our everyday lives at a rapid pace.

**Expert:** Absolutely, and this integration is crucial for our economic and social progress. In agriculture, for example, farmers are utilizing the Beidou system for precise navigation, which dramatically reduces labor costs and boosts efficiency. In the past 75 years, we’ve transitioned from a largely agrarian economy to become the world’s largest industrial power. Each innovation not only reshapes industries but also significantly impacts people’s lives.

**Interviewer:** What message do you want to convey to the younger generation in this context?

**Expert:** The torch has been passed to the younger generation, and it’s vital for them to embrace this responsibility. With the ongoing technological revolution and shifts in the global landscape, there are tremendous opportunities to influence the future. We must continue to pursue innovation in our quest to become a global technological powerhouse, empowering our nation and contributing positively to the world.

**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights today. It’s truly inspiring to envision the bright future that awaits China in the realm of science and technology!

On September 13, the State Council Information Office held a press conference in Beijing focused on “Promoting High-Quality Development.” During this event, Li Li, the Director of the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), emphasized the agency’s commitment to enhancing dynamic oversight throughout the entire drug lifecycle. He outlined three primary priorities: risk prevention, case investigation, and capacity enhancement, which are integral to ensuring drug safety and fostering public trust.

Li highlighted the NMPA’s strong support for centralized procurement of pharmaceuticals and medical devices at the national level. To facilitate this initiative, the agency conducts rigorous inspections of manufacturing companies and implements 100% sampling inspections on selected products, aiming to balance price reductions with uncompromised product quality.

He also reported on the ongoing progress in assessing the quality and efficacy consistency of generic drugs, revealing that two-thirds of commonly used chemical drugs have already been evaluated.

From January to August this year, the NMPA conducted a total of 20,969 drug inspections, achieving an impressive pass rate of 99.43%. This statistic reflects a stable overall safety situation for pharmaceuticals and bolsters confidence in the country’s drug safety measures.

Eleanor Chi-hui Chiang, co-founder of the Chinese Culture Foundation (SCCF), passed away on August 5, 2023, in Millbrae, surrounded by her loved ones. A farewell service was held on August 17 at Skylawn Memorial Park in the San Francisco Bay Area. At 88 years old, she was a highly respected educator and community leader, and her passing marks a significant moment for the local Chinese community. Family members, friends, and community leaders gathered to pay tribute to a woman whose impact on California’s Chinese community was nothing short of profound.

Eleanor’s legacy extends far beyond the two organizations she founded. It represents her lifelong commitment to community service and the enduring influence she had on those around her. In 1986, she joined forces with prominent leaders like Wang Zhi-yi and Cui Yi-wen to establish the SCCF, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting Chinese culture through a variety of events and activities. Under her leadership, the foundation served as a vital cultural bridge for the Chinese community in the state capital.

She also played a pivotal role in establishing the Chinese New Year Celebration Association (CNYCA) in the Greater Sacramento area. In 1997, Eleanor collaborated with Huang Bing-cong and Cui Yi-wen to plan the inaugural Spring Festival Gala, setting the groundwork for this cherished cultural event in her own front yard and engaging local community organizations in the effort.

Eleanor’s support for Asian American issues was equally remarkable. Despite her declining health, she continued to make annual donations to the Asian Pacific American Public Affairs Alliance (APAPA), an organization founded by her brother, Yin Ji-cheng. Her philanthropy not only boosted Asian Americans’ engagement in political and public affairs but also enhanced the community’s social influence.

In the years leading up to her passing, she received consistent recognition from the organizations she helped to establish. Honored at major events for her exceptional contributions to the Chinese community, these accolades reflect her personal achievements as well as her selfless dedication to others.

Eleanor Chi-hui Chiang’s passing leaves a lasting impact. Her work and contributions will continue to resonate within California’s Chinese community, inspiring future generations. Guided by her vision, the organizations she founded will carry on their mission to promote Chinese culture and support community development.

In the heart of Silicon Valley lives Anita Yin, a PhD in Environmental Engineering, who has transformed her passion for baking into a thriving home business. With the California Cottage Food Law allowing home cooks to legally sell their baked goods since 2013 and expanding its scope in 2019, Anita saw the opportunity to craft her culinary dreams into reality. Her home kitchen is now a bustling baking hub, where her creations not only earn consumer acclaim but also prepare her for the upcoming empty-nest phase of life.

Anita’s love for baking started early; during her high school years in Taiwan, she took a home economics class and learned to make traditional pastry. She originally pursued a career in chemical engineering, earning her bachelor’s in Taiwan before moving to the U.S. to obtain her master’s and PhD in Environmental Engineering. After graduation, she worked in medical device sterilization design, but upon marriage, she decided to prioritize her family as a full-time mom, leading her back to her baking passion.

As she began sharing excess bread with friends and family, Anita was encouraged to open her own bakery. “It was a natural progression for me,” she reflects. However, when the Cottage Food Operator (CFO) license became available, the process was a bit chaotic. She recalls visiting city offices only to find that no one there understood how to guide her through the application.

The CFO license required detailed information about the applicant’s address and the types of items they wished to sell. Additionally, it posed challenges such as avoiding conflicts with brick-and-mortar businesses and providing recipes and ingredient lists for each product. After years of navigating through the complexities, she finally secured her license in 2017 and formally launched her home bakery.

Anita meticulously crafted her kitchen for optimal baking. She installed two large ovens and searched for the perfect pastry machine, even importing equipment from Taiwan painted in her favorite Greek blue. Her commitment to quality is evident in her choice of high-end baking tools, with an investment of around $17,000 to ensure success—though she admits, “I haven’t broken even yet, but the joy and interest make it worthwhile.”

She emphasizes the significance of family support, noting that her husband, a Greek who enjoys her bread, plays an active role in giving feedback and suggesting new recipes. Their children have grown accustomed to fresh, homemade bread, showing little interest in store-bought alternatives.

While many home cooks operate without proper licenses, Anita advises caution. “It’s important to apply for a license,” she asserts. “Though it may be tedious and limiting, it protects both the seller and the consumer.” It’s also crucial to meet labeling requirements, including allergen disclosures.

After seven years, Anita has built a solid reputation in her local Chinese community as a home baker. Her business relies solely on word-of-mouth because her production volume is limited. Orders often sell out within moments of being released, despite customer requests for higher quantities. “Baking is not just a job for me,” she explains. “It’s part of preparing for my children to leave home, and I want to maintain my pace.”

As her children prepare for college, Anita dreams of continuing her baking journey, possibly by taking more courses or even opening a small bakery of her own. Her story underscores the impact of pursuing passion and talent within the confines of a humble kitchen, turning dreams into achievable goals one loaf at a time.

In a recent interview about his latest film, “Take Cover,” Scott Adkins discusses his role as a veteran hitman whose choice to take “one last job” leads to unforeseen outcomes. In one particularly intense scene, a mercenary reveals his contempt for snipers, raising the tension levels significantly. “I fucking hate snipers,” he expresses in frustration after cornering Adkins’ character, Sam. This moment captures the film’s tone, which blends gritty humor with a buddy dynamic reminiscent of classic action films, yet with a more rugged flair.

Directed by Nick McKinless, a well-respected stuntman, “Take Cover” immerses audiences in Sam’s world, where he operates under a clandestine agency involved in government-sanctioned assassinations. When a mission goes awry, resulting in an innocent bystander getting hurt, Sam decides to walk away. However, he soon learns that in the world of action films, the cardinal rule is to never take that last mission. Things appear to take a turn for the better when their handler, Tamara, played by Alice Eve, provides them with accommodations at a luxury hotel, only for their situation to spiral into chaos following a sudden shot from a nearby skyscraper.

As Adkins transitions from a lighter comedic tone to a more serious one, this performance hints at an evolution in his career, possibly paving the way for him to become an action icon similar to Chuck Norris. While Adkins clearly possesses talent, “Take Cover” seems to struggle under the burden of clichés, offering limited opportunities for him to truly showcase his skills. Both McKinless and screenwriter Joshua James attempt to explore a range of themes, from humorous banter to the darker aspects of governmental authority, but many of these elements fail to strike a chord.

Additionally, “Take Cover” lacks the sophistication needed to make the most of its high-stakes premise. For example, the depiction of an elite sniper giving away their location with a lens flash feels implausible, and the characters’ decisions regarding cover raise questions considering the level of firepower at play. With a predictable twist and a set of generic fight scenes, the film doesn’t fully test the limits of Adkins’ abilities. For viewers in search of a more engaging sniper narrative, they might find “Night of the Hunted” to be a more rewarding experience.

“Take Cover” is set to be available on digital platforms starting October 14.

In a significant recent announcement, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, revealed the establishment of a new Committee dedicated to reviewing the nation’s laws, the last update of which occurred in 2004. This initiative, chaired by former Ekiti State Attorney-General Olawale Fapohunda, SAN, is not just timely; it is critical, considering how many existing laws have become outdated. For example, some laws still impose laughably low fines, such as a N20 penalty for certain offenses—an amount that hardly buys a piece of candy today.

As our society continues to evolve, many of these laws no longer align with the current 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. One notable example is the Stamp Duties Act (SDA), which still maintains penalties that feel antiquated. Section 25 of the SDA imposes a mere N20 fine for obstructing authorized Inspectors during document examinations. Additionally, the National Youth Service Corps Act (NYSC Act) only levies a N2,000 fine for those who don’t meet their NYSC obligations. These outdated regulations demand a thorough reevaluation; some may even need to be removed from our legal framework entirely.

There are also serious inconsistencies between certain laws and constitutional provisions. Recently, I engaged in a discussion about the conflicts arising from Section 396(7) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 and provisions outlined in Sections 253, 258, and 273 of the Constitution. This section allows a judge promoted to a higher court to finalize criminal cases that were previously heard, which contradicts constitutional requirements and has come under judicial examination. It is crucial for the Law Review Committee to investigate these inconsistencies as it embarks on its comprehensive review.

Even if a complete overhaul of the Constitution isn’t on the agenda right now, certain amendments may be necessary to better align the Constitution with current statutory laws. For instance, Section 179(2) defines qualifications for gubernatorial candidates, yet the potential for inconclusive elections raises questions about the interpretive authority of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding constitutional mandates. The 2018 Osun Gubernatorial election, which was deemed inconclusive despite candidates fulfilling constitutional criteria, illustrates the confusion that can occur in such scenarios.

Regarding Ministerial appointments, the recent discussion surrounding Hanatu Musawa, the Minister of Arts and Culture, highlighted concerns about her incomplete NYSC. However, a closer look at Section 147(5) of the Constitution shows that completing NYSC is not a constitutional requirement for Ministerial roles. Furthermore, Sections 65 and 66 do not mention NYSC at all, raising questions about its relevance in today’s democratic landscape.

Ultimately, the goal must be for laws to uphold good governance in Nigeria. The Law Review Committee’s findings will eventually be presented to the Federal Executive Council and the National Assembly for legislative action, which could provide an excellent opportunity to reassess qualifications for elected offices. Ensuring that capable individuals hold positions of power is essential for effective governance.

It’s concerning that the National Assembly sometimes fails to fulfill its constitutional duty to create laws that benefit the public good. Often, recent legislation seems to prioritize narrow interests over the welfare of citizens, as seen in the recent Electoral Act and amendments to the Central Bank of Nigeria Act.

When examining laws like those in the Nigeria Police Act, contradictions regarding the Inspector General of Police’s retirement age and tenure highlight the need for clarity and consistency. While some adjustments have been made, it raises the question of whether these changes truly serve the nation’s best interests or are simply reflections of self-serving legislative agendas.

In conclusion, if the Law Review Committee focuses not only on updating fines but also on auditing the core effectiveness of our laws, it could pave the way for substantial and meaningful reforms. The committee will especially need to address delicate topics, such as the Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act 2013, which touches on fundamental rights enshrined in our Constitution, including privacy and freedom of expression. Advocates for the law provide moral reasoning for its existence, indicating that the Fapohunda Committee faces a challenging path ahead. We wish them success as they undertake this critical task.

In a recent interview in Abuja, Mr. Bello Hassan, the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), discussed the corporation’s enhanced partnership with the judiciary to speed up the prosecution of failed financial institutions. He noted that this collaboration has successfully resolved a number of long-standing cases, allowing for the declaration of 100% liquidation dividends for uninsured depositors from over 20 closed banks.

During the NDIC Special Day at the 19th Abuja International Trade Fair, themed “Mobility: Options for Transport, Trade Finance, and Taxation,” Mr. Hassan, represented by Mrs. Hawwau Gambo, Deputy Director of Communication and Public Affairs, reaffirmed the NDIC’s steadfast commitment to protecting depositors’ funds.

He urged depositors from any closed banks, especially those connected to Heritage Bank who have yet to receive their payments, to come forward with their Bank Verification Number (BVN), proof of account ownership, identification, and details of alternative accounts. “Claims can be submitted through various channels, including our website, email, and social media platforms,” he emphasized, reiterating the NDIC’s dedication to ensuring the security of depositors’ funds.

Mr. Hassan highlighted the significant progress made in safeguarding depositor funds, pointing out a recent increase in maximum deposit insurance coverage that enhances protection for a variety of financial institutions. This increase ensures that 98.98% of all depositors in Deposit Money Banks (DMBs), 99.27% in Microfinance Banks (MFBs), 99.34% in Primary Mortgage Banks (PMBs), and an impressive 99.99% in Payment Service Banks (PSBs) are protected, showcasing NDIC’s commitment to fulfilling its mandate.

“While our main focus is on insured deposits, the NDIC is equally dedicated to compensating depositors with balances exceeding N5 million,” he explained. “These larger, uninsured deposits make up a significant portion of total deposits within Heritage Bank. We have already initiated the process of asset realization and debt recovery to ensure timely payments to uninsured depositors through liquidation dividends.”

Furthermore, Mr. Hassan mentioned that the NDIC also has responsibilities to the creditors of the defunct bank, who will receive payments after all depositors have been compensated. He stressed that this orderly process, which relies on asset realization and claims prioritization, is essential for maintaining public trust in the financial system and promoting stability.

On the morning of October 2nd, a concerning event unfolded at Miyazaki Airport in Miyazaki City, Japan, as part of the runway collapsed. The airport was closed before 8 AM local time, leading to a suspension of all flights while emergency services began assessing the situation.

According to NHK, a section of the runway connecting to the taxiway experienced partial subsidence, prompting airport officials to reach out to emergency response teams for assistance. Once the situation was identified, personnel in the airport vicinity were evacuated. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries.

Footage from NHK cameras revealed visible damage to the taxiway around 9 AM, showing signs of subsidence and uneven asphalt in the surrounding area.

Local police reported hearing sounds resembling explosions, which led emergency services to launch a thorough investigation on-site.

Kosuke Kato, head of the airport office at the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, confirmed that around 8 AM, tower personnel noticed the subsidence on the taxiway, which was accompanied by explosive sounds and thick smoke. He indicated that officials are currently working to identify the cause of this incident, and the timeline for reopening the runway remains undetermined.

Reports suggest that local police suspect the explosion might have been linked to an unexploded bomb. This area has a history of such findings, as Miyazaki Airport was built on a former naval base during World War II.

Immediately following the incident, the airport was closed, stopping all flight operations. Witnesses reported hearing an explosion, and the explosion site was noted to have a diameter of about 7 meters and a depth of approximately 1.2 meters.

By around 8:10 AM, the Miyazaki City Fire Department had received reports of explosions within the airport grounds, though there have been no reported injuries so far.

The region surrounding Miyazaki Airport has seen several discoveries of unexploded bombs in previous years. Notably, in January 2009, one was found near the airport’s construction site, followed by the recovery of a 50-kilogram unexploded bomb in June 2011 and a 250-kilogram device later that November. These munitions are believed to be remnants dropped by US forces during World War II, as the airport was originally established as the Japanese Navy’s Akie Base in 1943.

On October 8, a reporter from China News Service in Chengdu provided insights into the significant project advancement activities scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2024 in Sichuan Province. The report highlights that Sichuan is gearing up to launch 1,823 major projects this quarter, representing a remarkable total investment of 785.5 billion yuan (approximately 109.5 billion USD).

The projects span a variety of categories, including infrastructure, innovation, industrial development, and improvements in social services and public welfare. Notably, infrastructure projects make up the largest portion, with 601 initiatives amounting to an investment of 364.5 billion yuan—accounting for 46.4% of the total expenditure. Key projects in this category include the G0611 highway segment linking ChuanZhuSi and WenChuan, along with the development of a natural gas purification plant and an external transportation system in the Daqing Oilfield.

Innovation and industrial development initiatives stand out for their volume, encompassing 727 projects with an investment of 287.5 billion yuan, which translates to 36.6% of the total. Among these, significant projects feature the Dazhou Superconductive Carbon Black New Materials Industrial Park and the production of high-precision printed circuit boards in Mianyang.

Furthermore, there are 495 projects focused on enhancing social services and living standards, with a collective investment of 133.5 billion yuan, making up 17% of the overall investment. This group includes the first phase of the new campus for the First Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College and the Chengdu Cultural and Technological Arts City.

When examining the investment scale, it’s noteworthy that 159 projects are set to exceed 1 billion yuan in investments, totaling 504.6 billion yuan; 16 projects will each surpass 5 billion yuan, with a combined investment of 253.9 billion yuan; and 11 projects are expected to exceed 10 billion yuan, amounting to 221.2 billion yuan.

In terms of funding sources, 554 privately funded projects have been identified, totaling an investment of 256.1 billion yuan, which represents 32.6% of the overall investment. Notable examples include the Tianma Large Bearing High-Quality Intelligent Manufacturing Base and the second phase of the Delan Aerospace Industrial Park.