Athena Daily Brief – 12th October 2024
Reps passes bill to allow FRSC officials to carry guns
The House of Representatives has passed a bill for the second reading, aimed at amending the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) Act of 2007. The bill proposes the establishment of a Special Armed Squad within the FRSC, to grant officers the right to carry firearms. The bill also seeks to provide enhanced benefits for FRSC officers holding the rank of Deputy Corps Marshal, including retirement benefits. It also empowers the FRSC with the sole responsibility for road traffic administration and safety management, the authority to clear road obstructions, and the duty to educate the public on road safety.
Read more: https://www.akelicious.net/2024/10/10/reps-pass-bill-to-allow-frsc-officials-to-carry-guns/
Athena Commentary: While the bill aims to improve road safety, concerns about the proper use of firearms must be addressed. This is about the need for rigorous training and oversight to ensure responsible enforcement. Additionally, the technological enhancements must be regularly assessed for efficacy. The integration of advanced technology, such as automated traffic enforcement, is a positive step towards modernisation. However, these systems require continuous maintenance and evaluation to ensure effectiveness. Over-reliance on technology without proper support may lead to inefficiencies or system failures.
Boat Mishaps Kill 1,429 In 4 Years
Over 1,429 Nigerians have died in boat mishaps in the past four years, with northern Nigeria recording the highest casualties despite having lower water levels. Causes include poor maintenance, overcrowding, night voyages, and outdated boats.
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Boat Mishaps Kill 1,429 In 4 Years
Athena Commentary: This is deeply worrisome. An effective policy to mitigate boat mishaps is urgently necessary. Investment in modern boats, stricter enforcement of safety regulations, and public awareness campaigns are essential to prevent recurring tragedies. Policies should include government subsidies for water transport infrastructure, regulation of boat operations, and stricter penalties for violations like overloading and night travel. Enhanced safety measures would save lives, boost local economies, and ensure safe water travel, especially in northern Nigeria where the most deaths occur.
FG To Integrate Mental Health Care Into PHC System
During the 2024 World Mental Health Day event, Nigeria’s federal government announced plans to integrate mental health services into the Primary Health Care (PHC) system. Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, emphasised the importance of this initiative in providing accessible care to underserved communities. He highlighted the need for early intervention, reducing stigma, and promoting mental health in workplaces to improve well-being and economic performance.
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FG to integrate Mental Health care into PHC system
Athena Commentary: Integrating mental health services into Nigeria’s Primary Health Care system is a crucial step in addressing the mental health crisis. By decentralising care, vulnerable and underserved populations can access timely support. The focus on mental health in workplaces is particularly important, as mental health issues significantly impact productivity. Policies promoting mental health awareness, early intervention, and reducing stigma will not only improve individuals’ well-being but also enhance national economic performance.
FG Launches Programme To Reverse Brain Drain In Health Sector
The Nigerian government has launched the Nigerian Health Professionals in Diaspora Plus Engagement Programme to address brain drain in the health sector. The initiative aims to enhance collaboration between Nigerian professionals abroad and their counterparts at home. Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasised the need for support from the private sector and international partners to invest in cutting-edge technologies like telemedicine.
Read more:
https://thewhistler.ng/fg-launches-programme-to-reverse-brain-drain-in-health-sector/
Athena Commentary: This is a timely initiative to tackle the brain drain crisis in the health sector that slowly leaves the healthcare system in the country crippled. By encouraging collaboration between diaspora professionals and local counterparts, the programme can leverage expertise, advanced technologies, and international partnerships to improve healthcare services. This approach will not only reverse brain drain but also position Nigeria as a healthcare leader in West Africa, boosting both health outcomes and economic growth.
Rivers Crisis: Appeal Court Accuses Fubara Of ‘Executive Recklessness’
The Court of Appeal has criticised Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, for “executive recklessness” in presenting and signing the state budget with only four out of 32 House members within 24 hours. The court dismissed Fubara’s appeal to remove 27 lawmakers who defected from the PDP to the APC, citing that his withdrawal from a previous Federal High Court case negated his right to challenge the ruling. The court ordered Fubara to re-submit the state budget to the full House under the recognised Speaker and barred him from interfering with the Assembly’s affairs.
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Rivers Crisis: Appeal Court Accuses Fubara Of ‘Executive Recklessness’
Athena Commentary: While Governor Fubara’s actions have been criticised, one could argue that his decisions were driven by the need for swift governance amidst political tensions in the state. Presenting and signing the budget within 24 hours may have been an attempt to ensure the state’s financial plans were not stalled by internal conflicts within the House of Assembly. With 27 members defecting to the opposition, it’s easy to see the challenges he must have faced in gathering legislative support, which understandably prompted his actions to maintain governance stability. Although the process may seem unconventional, the governor’s intent could have been to prioritise the state’s progress over political gridlock.
Compiled by Aliyu Jalal