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BYE-LAWS, RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE NIGERIAN FAMILY INC (A NON-FOR-PROFIT ORGANIZATION)
PREAMBLE
The members of the Nigerian Family Inc, a non-for-profit organization, who are determined:
1. To build foundational and developmental strategies towards improving the lives of Nigerian families and other African brothers anywhere in the world; 2. To promote democratic, social and economic standing and better standards of life in larger freedom for Nigerian families and other African brothers anywhere in the world; 3. To promote, resuscitate, standardize and sustain Nigerian and other African culture and cultural values; 4. To foster human rights and work for development and sustainable goals for Nigerian families and other African brothers in this world; and 5. To generally improve the wellbeing of Nigerians and other Africans in this world.
In furtherance of their determination, these members prayed that their hopes or objectives be realized and have bestowed on themselves this guiding document to serve as their bye-laws, rules and regulations.
CHAPTER I: PURPOSES
Article 1
The purposes for which the organization is formed are as follows:
1. To build foundational and developmental strategies from time to time towards improving the lives of Nigerian families and other African peoples anywhere in the world. 2. To participate in job creation and job finding programs to benefit Nigerians anywhere in the world. 3. To promote and work for improving the democratic, social and economic standing of Nigerians and other African peoples anywhere in the world. 4. To promote the ownership or funding by Nigerians and their home governments of recreational Nigerian Family Halls to be named as such or in any other name so desired for their community and social uses in the Diaspora. 5. To devise strategies and plans for poverty alleviation of Nigerian families and other African peoples anywhere in the world. 6. To participate in all programs of the UN systems and other international organizations towards promoting the wellbeing of Nigerian families and other African peoples. 7. To actively assist any Nigerian in distress. 8. To assist Nigerians and other Africans in procurement of decent accommodation or housing and in achieving their dreams of owning homes including working to improve their environment. 9. To lobby positively all levels of authorities including individuals, corporate bodies, businesses, non-for-profits, governments and other institutions towards improving the welfare and well being of Nigerian families anywhere in the world. 10. To liaise with all levels of governments in the world towards improving the welfare and wellbeing of Nigerians any where in the world. 11. To promote, resuscitate, standardize and sustain Nigerian and other African peoples’ culture and cultural values. 12. To promote the holding of annual Nigerian Family Day every first Saturday in September or any other convenient date in the Diaspora different from Nigerian Independence Day as a day for promoting Nigerian family values, peace and hope building. 13. To work to improve relations between Nigeria and other governments, businesses and institutions in the world. 14. To work actively and devise strategies towards achieving better education for Nigerians and other Africans any where in the world including promoting Nigerian or African Family Junior Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Varsities and others forms to meet the needs of Nigerians and other Africans in the Diaspora. 15. To work towards improving Nigerian families and other Africans welfare, social and economic security, medical and physical life including promoting Nigerian or African Family Hospitals or Medical Centers in the Diaspora. 16. To assist in resolving and arbitrating all forms of disputes among Nigerians and between Nigerians and Non-Nigerians. 17. To hold forums from time to time with Nigerian elites and officeholders and with other world intellectuals toward improving the wellbeing of Nigerians and other Africans anywhere in the world. 18. To promote ethnic and religious harmony among Nigerians and between Nigerians and non-Nigerians. 19. To promote race relations and cooperation among Africans and between Africans and non-Africans. 20. To actively participate in Nigeria’s and other Africans nation building. 21. To assist Nigerians and other Africans in migration in legalization and stability. 22. To actively seek for scholarships, grants, aides and other forms of benefits and promptly introduce same to Nigerians and other Africans in need. 23. To harvest opportunities on behalf of Nigerians and other Africans anywhere in the world. 24. To promote grassroots branches of the organization worldwide. 25. To work for the general wellbeing, promote family values of Nigerian families and other African peoples and carry out Annual Wellbeing Analysis of Nigerians and other Africans at the grassroots levels. 26. To extend the above value building objectives to all Africans and friends of Africa. 27. To do all that is incidental in promoting the above objectives.
CHAPTER II: MEMBERSHIP
Article 1
1. Membership shall be open to all Nigerians. Members in this group shall be called Nigerian members or original members. Membership shall also be open to organizations, businesses or institutions owned and operated by Nigerians for the benefits of Nigerians and these members shall be referred to as organizational members.
Article 2
2. An applicant for membership or a potential member is a Nigerian if he or she is born of a Nigerian parent or is naturalized or is a Nigerian as defined by the Constitution of Nigeria.
Article 3
3. Affiliate membership shall be open or accorded to citizens or organizations or businesses or institutions of other African countries either by their own application or by invitation of any organ of the organization or by invitation of at least three members in good standing as defined in Chapter 11, Article 5. Members in this group shall be called African members or African brothers and sisters.
Article 4
4. Honorary membership shall be open or accorded to citizens or organizations or businesses or institutions of non-African countries either by their own application or by invitation of any organ of the organization or by invitation of at least three members in good standing as defined in Chapter 11, Article 5. Members in this group shall be called non-African members or Friends of Africa (FOA).
Article 5
5. A Nigerian member shall be in good standing upon attendance of 50% of the meetings at any level or show good cause if he or she cannot attend 50% of the meetings. A good cause is shown if a notice is sent by the Nigerian member before or after a meeting stating the reason why he missed or will miss the meeting. A Nigerian member shall also be in good standing upon showing dedication to the cause of the organization and such showing may not unreasonably be questioned.
Article 6
6. If it is necessary or upon application of any Nigerian member, a Certificate of Good Standing may be issued by the organization in favor of any member and signed by any of the principal signatories of the organization. The principal signatories shall be members of current Council of Senior Deputies which shall comprise of President, Vice-President I, Vice-President II and Vice-President III of the Council of Deputies.
Article 7
7. It shall not be required that an applicant or potential member pay a fee before admission to membership. An applicant or potential member shall be admitted upon filling and signing of the membership form. The organization may however seek donation from members and such donations shall be recorded. The organization may also charge fees for services performed for the benefit of members and non-members.
Article 8
8. A Nigerian member may only be suspended from membership for persistent violations of the cause of the organization or if he or she turned to be enemy of the Nigerian people. A member may not be suspended from membership merely because such member is in any form of trouble or difficulty but rather the organization should try to reform and support such member that is in trouble or difficulty.
Article 9
9. Affiliate and Honorary members may be suspended by the organization if it is determined that the holder of such membership has turned to be an enemy of the Nigeria people.
Article 10
10. Any member (Nigerian, Affiliate or Honorary) is free to resign his or her membership of the organization by a notice (oral or written) to that effect to any of the principal officers. If the notice is oral, the organization should try to confirm in writing from the member.
Article 11
11. Nigerian members shall be invited to all events of the organization while Affiliate and Honorary members shall be invited to ceremonial which shall include intellectual events of the organization. The organization through the Council of Deputies (COD) shall be free to set further rights and privileges of memberships.
Article 12
12. It shall be forbidden for a member to unjustly work against the interest or wellbeing of any Nigerian or other Africans and a member found to have done so may be suspended after three reasonable warnings.
CHAPTER III: THE HEADQUARTERS AND BRANCHES
Article 1
1. This organization shall be an international organization of Nigerians in the Diaspora and Nigerians at home. The organization shall maintain substantial operational presence in Nigeria and in the Diaspora.
Article 2
2. As defined in Chapter I, Article 1, this organization shall primarily focus on the application of the purposes of the United Nations and its specialized agencies and other relevant international institutions, businesses and governments for the betterment and improvement of the wellbeing of Nigerians and other Africans anywhere in the world.
Article 3
3. There shall be two types of headquarters namely the international headquarter and the home headquarter.
Article 4
4. There shall be two international headquarters and the first international headquarter shall be situated in the city where the United Nations headquarter is situated while the second international headquarter shall be situated in the city where Nigerians are most concentrated in the Diaspora besides the country where the United Nations is situated.
Article 5
5. There shall be two home headquarters and the first home headquarter shall be situated in the capital of Nigeria while the second home headquarter shall be situated in the most populous and commercial city in Nigeria besides the capital of Nigeria.
Article 6
6. There shall be country divisions or chapters in all countries where Nigeria maintained diplomatic relations or where reasonable number of Nigerians lives in the Diaspora.
Article 7
7. a. Under the international headquarters and country divisions or chapters, there shall be branches maintained at the states and local governments or county levels or such similar political sub-divisions in order to promote grassroots mobilization. b. Under the home headquarters, there shall be branches maintained at the states and local governments or county levels or such similar political sub-divisions in order to promote grassroots mobilization.
Article 8
8. All headquarters, chapters and branches shall be guided by the provisions of this document with such reasonable and necessary modifications to suite their local needs.
CHAPTER IV: THE ORGANS AND COMMITTEES
Article 1
1. There shall be established the following organs and committees for the smooth running of the organization:
a. The General Assembly of Families (GAF) b. The Council of Deputies (COD) c. The Council of Senior Deputies (COSD) d. The Board of Trustees (BOT) e. The Board of Advisers (BOA) f. The Board of Senior Advisers (BOSA) g. The Board of State Servants or Specialist (BOSS) h. The Board of Eminent (BOE) i. The Specialized Department Committees (SDC) j. The Political Intelligence Committee (PIC) k. The Economics and Social Intelligence Committee (ESIC)
Article 2 Establishment of the General Assembly of Families (The GAF)
2. Establishment: There shall be established a General Assembly of Families (the GAF) at all levels including the headquarters, chapters, branches and counties or grassroots levels.
Article 3
3. Composition: The GAF shall be the highest organ of the organization which shall comprise of all members at the operating level.
Article 4 Functions and Powers of the GAF:
4. The GAF shall meet annually to
a. Approve the plans, programs and budgets for the year as presented by the Council of Deputies (COD). The Vice-President I shall lead the development of the plans, programs and budgets. b. Approve changes necessary for the effective running of the organization. c. Confirm the Vice President I as the President or Oga of the Council of Deputies (COD). The President is confirmed if one-fifth votes of members present approves. d. If the Vice-President I cannot be confirmed as President of COD, the Vice-President II shall be confirmed as President provided he secured one-quarter votes of members present. e. If Vice-President I and Vice-President II cannot be confirmed as President, there shall be a voting for the President of the COD. f. If the Vice-President I and Vice-President II cannot be elected as President of the COD, they shall continue to hold their offices for another year, provided they secured one-tenth of the votes of the members present. g. Confirm Vice-President II as Vice-President I provided that one-tenth votes of members present approves. h. Elects by voting or draw Vice President III of the Council of Deputies (COD). The system of voting or draw shall be done to place emphasis on performance as opposed to ethnic or any interest based voting. i. Subject members of the COD to competence challenges by demanding reasonable demonstration of knowledge of Booklet CODE or recruiting ability. j. Assessment for competent challenges shall be reasonable and a member of COD shall be found to be competent if he or she demonstrate knowledge of Booklet CODE reasonably or has recruited at least 10 advisers in good standing or has recruited reasonable members in good standing for the organization during his or her lifetime in the COD and such reasonable members shall be minimum of 11 members at the county or grassroots level, 20 members at the state branches level or 30 members at the country or chapter level. k. Member of COD found incompetent may be removed and those found competent shall continue to be members of COD. l. The assessment for competent challenges shall be by voting and approval shall be obtained upon one-third votes of GAF members present. m. It shall be the duty of Vice-President I assisted by Vice-President II to organize the annual meeting of the GAF. n. The President of the General Assembly shall be the retiring President of the COD. o. At the annual meeting of the GAF, a quorum is formed if one-third of registered members in good standing are present or minimum of 11 members at the county or grassroots level, 20 members at the state branches level or 30 members at the country or chapter level. If quorum cannot be formed, the meeting shall be postponed for another date within the month and if quorum cannot be formed in the next month, the meeting shall be postponed for another month, and if quorum can still not be formed, the county or branch or chapter involved shall automatically be dissolved. p. Members for the purposes of GAF shall be Nigerian or original members.
Article 5 Establishment of the Council of Deputies (COD)
5. Establishment: There shall be established the Council of Deputies (COD) at all levels including the headquarters, chapters, branches and counties or grassroots levels.
Article 6
6. Composition: Membership in the COD shall be based on performance and the COD shall comprise of competent members that are dedicated and intelligent or members demonstrating recruiting ability for general members or advisers in good standing.
Article 7 Assessment of competent members
7. Assessment of competent members shall be reasonable and a member for COD shall be found to be competent if he or she demonstrate knowledge of Booklet CODE reasonably or has recruited reasonable members in good standing for the organization and such reasonable members shall be minimum of 11 members at the county or grassroots level, 20 members at the state branches level or 30 members at the country or chapter level.
Article 8
8. a. An interested member meeting the above qualification shall be admitted into the COD by the President of the COD at any time or by one-tenth members of the GAF members present at the annual meeting. b. An interested member shall also be admitted into the COD by the President of the COD at any time or by one-tenth members of the GAF members present at the annual meeting if the member demonstrates recruiting ability for at least 10 advisers in good standing.
Article 9
9. a. Members of COD shall be required to maintain their competence to remain members of the COD. b. Members of the COD shall be subjected to annual competence challenges by the General Assembly of Families (GAF) which shall demand reasonable demonstration of knowledge of Booklet CODE or recruiting ability. c. Assessment for competent challenges shall be reasonable and a member of COD shall be found to be competent if he or she demonstrate knowledge of Booklet CODE reasonably or has recruited at least 10 advisers in good standing or has recruited reasonable members in good standing for the organization during his or her lifetime in the COD and such reasonable members shall be minimum of 11 members at the county or grassroots level, 20 members at the state branches level or 30 members at the country or chapter level.
Article 10
10. a. At the initial period at the operating levels, the GAF shall elect among members of the COD or among General members a President, Vice-President I, Vice-President II and Vice-President III of COD and such election shall be based on performance ability as opposed to ethnic or other interest based voting. b. At the subsequent yearly periods, the Vice-President I shall be confirmed as President, the Vice-President II shall be confirmed as the Vice-President I and Vice-President III shall be confirmed as Vice-President II. The confirmation shall be done by the GAF. c. In any vacancy for the post of the President, the Vice-President I shall become the President likewise if there is any vacancy for the post of Vice-President I, the Vice-President II shall become the Vice-President I, if there is any vacancy for Vice-President II, the Vice-President III shall become the Vice-President II and if there is any vacancy for Vice-President III, a new election shall be done for the position by the GAF. The person occupying any vacant position shall serve the rest of the term for the vacant position in addition to his own term.
Article 11
11. a. Duration: A member of COD shall continue to be a member for maximum duration of 10 years unless removed for incompetence or misconduct or has served as President of COD. The President, Vice-Presidents I, II and III shall continue to be members of COD even if they have been members of COD for more than 10 years. b. The President, Vice-Presidents I, II and III and all retired members of the COD still interested in the activities of the organization shall be members of the Council of Senior Deputies (COSD).
Article 12
12. The President, Vice-Presidents I, II and III shall be principal signatories for the organization at the operating levels.
Article 13 Functions and Powers:
13. The COD shall have the following powers and functions:
a. Run the organization at the operating levels based on the plans, programs and budgets decided upon by the GAF. b. Coordinate the activities of the organization including coordinating the activities of the organs. c. Appoint annually the officers of the organization at the operating levels. d. Appoint annually members of the Committees. e. Approve recommended advisers. f. Recommend members and advisers for awards issued by other authorities or organizations on the advice of the Awards Committee. g. Approve and confer on members, advisers and non-members awards of the organization after recommendation of the Awards Committee. h. Issue appointment certificates to Board and Council members of the organization. i. Consult from time to time with the BOSS, the BOE and other organs of the organization. j. Prepare annual plans, programs and budget for the annual conference of GAF and for the notice of the BOSS and the BOE. k. Conduct informative seminars, conferences, workshops, symposium and the likes for the benefits of Nigerians and other Africans. l. Conduct general members or advisers meeting at such frequency as may be desired at the operating levels but not later than monthly. The advisers may also call meetings on their own. m. Meet among themselves at such frequency as may be desired at the operating levels but not later than monthly. n. Quorum for meetings of COD, general members and advisers shall be satisfied if one-third of members of COD, general members or advisers are present. o. Organize the annual General Assembly of Families meeting. p. Organize meetings or dinners for members of the Board of Advisers. q. Organize researches from time to time through members, non-members and advisers and submit for the notice of the BOSS and BOE. r. Perform all that is necessary in the effective running of the organization and the realization of the objectives.
Article 14 THE COUNCIL OF SENIOR DEPUTIES (COSD)
14. There shall be established at all levels The Council of Senior Deputies (COSD).
15. The COSD shall comprise of the following:
a. The President, Vice-Presidents I, II and III and all retired members of the COD still interested in the activities of the organization shall be members of the Council of Senior Deputies (COSD) and shall hold life membership. b. Such other members appointed by the Chairman of the BOSS serving for the term of the Chairman.
16. The COSD shall have the following functions and powers:
a. Advise members of the COD but may not unreasonably interfere in the functions of the COD. The COSD may only interfere where necessary in divisions and crisis. b. Get preferential roles in ceremonial functions and activities of the organization. c. Perform the functions of the GAF where the GAF cannot act. d. Manage divisions and crisis in the organization. e. Perform such other functions for the effective running of the organization in times of divisions and crisis.
17. The COSD shall operate independently and coordinated.
18. a. There shall be Chairman, Deputy-Chairman, Vice-Chairman I and Vice-Chairman II of the COSD. The Chairman shall hold office for one year and shall be succeeded by the Deputy who shall be succeeded by the Vice-Chairman I and who shall further be succeeded by Vice-Chairman II. b. At the initial period, the Chairman shall be the longest serving member of the COSD and or COD and the deputy and the Vices shall be following in terms in the COSD and or COD.
Article 19 THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES (the BOT)
19. There shall be established the BOT at all levels of the organization.
20. The BOT shall comprise of the following members:
a. Those who signed the incorporating document, if necessary. b. Members who have recruited minimum of 11 active members at the county or grassroots level, 20 active members at the state branches level or 30 active members at the country or chapter level. c. Those who have made significant contribution of permanent impact to the organization. d. Those members recommended by the Chairman of the BOSS.
21. The BOT shall have the following functions and powers
a. Ensure equity and sustainability of the objectives of the organization. b. Advise members of the COD and other organs and committees of the organization. c. Conduct performance evaluation of the programs, policies, projects, organs and committees of the organization. d. Appoint members of the committees and advisers if the COD cannot. e. Manage divisions and crisis in the organization along with the COSD. f. Appoint the auditor to audit the books and operations of the organization. g. Advice changes to the bye-laws for approval of the GAF. h. Create additional organs or committees as may be found necessary.
22. A member of the BOT may also be member of other committees and organs of the organization.
23. a. There shall be Chairman, Vice-Chairman I, Vice-Chairman II and Vice-Chairman III of the BOT all of whom shall be elected among members of the BOT. b. The Chairman shall hold office for one year and succeeded by the Vice-Chairman I. The Vice-Chairman II will become the Vice-Chairman I and the Vice-Chairman III will become the Vice-Chairman II.
24. a. Members of the BOT shall elect annually by draw or votes the Vice-Chairman III. b. The retiring Chairman may continue to be in the BOT and may seek re-election as the Vice-Chairman III. c. The Vice-Chairman II shall serve as the Secretary of the BOT while the Vice-Chairman III shall serve as the Assistant Secretary.
Article 25 THE BOARD OF ADVISERS (BOA)
25. There shall be established Board of Advisers (BOA) at all levels of the organization.
26. The BOA shall comprise of body of knowledgeable, competent, exceptionally and or extra-ordinarily able Nigerians and non-Nigerians individuals and organizations of goodwill interested in the development of Nigerians and other Africans.
27. Membership in the BOA shall be open to members and non-members of the organization.
Article 28 Functions, Powers and Privileges of BOA:
28. The BOA shall have the following functions, powers and privileges:
a. Holding seminars, conferences, workshops and the likes for members of Nigerian Families and other Africans. b. Writing professional articles and engagement in pubic speaking. c. Submit professional projects for submission to the BOSS and the BOE. d. Recommendation for Awards. e. Contribute materials to Booklet CODE. f. Hold meetings and liaise with other advisers. In any such meeting, leadership shall rotate among members monthly. g. Invitation to international conferences on behalf of the organization. h. Invitation to meet dignitaries i. Appointment to Specialized Department Committees (SDC), the Political Intelligence Committee (PIC), the Economic and Social Intelligence Committee (ESIC) and other development committees. j. Attend advisers meetings, conferences, workshops and so on.
Article 29 THE BOARD OF SENIOR ADVISERS (BOSA)
29. There shall be established the BOARD OF SENIOR ADVISERS (BOSA) at all levels of the organization. 30. The BOSA shall comprise of members of the Board of Advisers that are active and in good standing. Members of BOSA shall remain members of BOA but of higher ranking. 31. A member of the BOA shall be deemed active and in good standing if
a. He or she has recruited at least 5 advisers in one year or; b. Has participated actively in the activities of the organization as an adviser or member; c. An adviser shall be deemed to have participated actively in the activities of the organization if he or she has produced or participated in minimum of 5 transactions or functions in one year which may either be in the form of seminars, conferences, articles, meetings and the likes.
32. Appointment for BOSA shall be reviewed annually for active and good standing status.
Article 33 Functions, Powers and Privileges of BOSA
33. The BOSA shall have the same functions, powers and privileges stated under the BOA but in higher preference.
Article 34 THE BOARD OF STATE SPECIALIST OR THE BOARD OF STATE SERVANTS (THE BOSS)
34. Subject to any limitations elsewhere, there shall be established the Board of State Specialist or the Board of State Servants (the BOSS) at the main level which shall be composed of the following:
a. The serving head of state or head of government of Nigeria as the Chairman. b. The past head of states or head of governments of Nigeria. c. Serving Governors of the States in Nigeria. d. Past Governors of States in Nigeria.
35. The BOSS shall be informed from time to time of the activities and projects of the organization.
36. The organization shall always seek the advice of the BOSS through the COD or the BOT.
37. The BOSS shall be expected to give support to the activities of the organization and shall meet from time to time with key organs and committees of the organization.
38. The BOSS may hold meetings to discuss the projects and activities of the organization and determine the best support to give from time to time.
Article 39 THE BOARD OF EMINENT PERSONS (the BOEP)
39. Subject to any limitations elsewhere, there shall be established the Board of Eminent Persons (the BOEP) at the main level which shall be composed of the following:
a. The serving Secretary to the Government of Federal Republic of Nigeria as the Chairman (SGF). b. The serving Head of the Federal Civil Service of Nigeria (HFCS). c. Past SGF and HFCS d. Current ministers and Special Advisers e. Past ministers and Special Advisers f. Traditional Rulers g. Serving and Retired Judges and Justices h. Identified Eminent Nigerians to be appointed by the COD or the BOT.
40. The BOEP shall exist as advisory and or program executing body to the organization and shall be informed of developments.
41. The organization may seek the push and support of the BOE in the execution of programs of the organization.
42. The BOEP shall be expected to give support to the activities of the organization and shall meet from time to time with key organs and committees of the organization.
43. The BOEP may hold meetings to discuss the projects and activities of the organization and determine the best support to give from time to time.
Article 44 SPECIALIZED DEPARTMENTS COMMITTEES (SDCs)
44. There shall be established the following Specialized Departments Committees (SDCs):
a. SDC United Nations (SDC UN)
i. This SDC shall be established at the Chapter and Headquarters levels and shall focus on the activities of the United Nations and its effect on the Nigerian Families and other Africans. ii. The SDC shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with the UN office within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. iii. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the UN towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
b. SDC Labor and Industrial Relations Development (SDC LABOR).
i. This SDC shall be established at all levels of the organization. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for job creation for members of the organization including devising job networking and moves for income improvement for members. iii. The SDC shall study government programs and labor policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC at the Chapters and Headquarters levels shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with the International Labor Organization (ILO) office within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. v. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the ILO and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
c. SDC Food and Agriculture Development (SDC FOOD)
i. This SDC shall be established at all levels of the organization. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for food and agriculture development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall study government programs and food and agricultural policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC at the Chapters and Headquarters levels shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), International Foundation for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and World Food Program (WFP) offices within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. v. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the FAO, IFAD, WFP and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
d. SDC Education, Science, Culture and People Development (SDC ESCUP).
i. This SDC shall be established at all levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for education, science, culture and people development matters including poverty alleviation in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall promote Nigerian and other African culture through museums, films and the likes and organize ESCUP exchanges with organizations, businesses and governments. iv. The SDC shall study government programs on education, science, culture and people policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. v. The SDC at the Chapters and Headquarters levels shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with the United Nations Education, Science and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), United Nations Development Program (UNDP), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and United Nations Population Fund (UNPF or UNFPA) offices within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. vi. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the UNESCO, UNDP, UNICEF and UNPF or UNFPA and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
e. SDC Civil Aviation Development (SDC AVIATION)
i. This SDC shall be established at Chapters and Headquarters levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for civil aviation development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall study government programs on civil aviation policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) offices within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. v. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the ICAO and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
f. SDC Health Development (SDC HEALTH)
i. This SDC shall be established at all levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for health development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall study government programs on health policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC at the Chapters and Headquarters levels shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with the World Health Organization (WHO) offices within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. v. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the WHO and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
g. SDC Banking and Finance Development (SDC B&F)
i. This SDC shall be established at all levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for banking and finance development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall study government programs on banking and finance policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC at the Chapters and Headquarters levels shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) offices within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. v. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the World Bank and IMF and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
h. SDC Postal and Telecommunication Development (SDC POSTEL)
i. This SDC shall be established at Chapters and Headquarters levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for postal and telecommunication development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall study government programs on postal and telecommunication policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with the Universal Postal Union (UPU) and International Telecommunication Union (ITU) offices within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. v. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the UPU and ITU and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
i. SDC Weather, Climate and Water Development (SDC CLIMATE or SDC WATER or SDC ENVIRONMENT)
i. This SDC shall be established at all levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for weather, climate and water development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall study government programs on weather, climate and water policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC at the Chapters and Headquarters levels shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with the World Metrological Organization (WMO) and United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) offices within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. v. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the WMO and UNEP and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
j. SDC Maritime Development (SDC MARITIME)
i. This SDC shall be established at all levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for maritime development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall study government programs on maritime policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC at the Chapters and Headquarters levels shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) office within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. v. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the IMO and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
k. SDC Intellectual Property Development (SDC INTELLECTS)
i. This SDC shall be established Chapters and Headquarters levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for intellectual development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall study government programs on intellectual policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) office within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. v. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the WIPO and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
l. SDC Trade and Industrial Development (SDC TRADE AND INDUSTRY)
i. This SDC shall be established at all levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for trade and industrial development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall study government programs on trade and development policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC at the Chapters and Headquarters levels shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with the World Trade Organization (WTO), United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) offices within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. v. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the WTO, UNCTAD and UNIDO and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
m. SDC Security and Drug Control (SDC SECURITY AND DRUGS)
i. This SDC shall be established at all levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for security and drug control development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall study government programs on security and drug control policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC shall be concerned with all forms of security threats including terrorism and work out improvement programs. v. The SDC at the Chapters and Headquarters levels shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with the UN Security Council, United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), United Nations Drug Control Program (UNDCP), United Nations Human Settlements Program (UNHABITAT) offices within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. vi. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the WTO, UNCTAD and UNIDO and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
n. SDC Legal Development (SDC LEGAL)
i. This SDC shall be established at all levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for legal development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall study private and government programs on legal policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC at the Chapters and Headquarters levels shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with related national and international institutions within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. v. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of those related national and international institutions and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
o. SDC Information and Computer Technologies (SDC ICT)
i. This SDC shall be established at all levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for information and computer development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall study private and government programs on information and computer technologies, policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC shall work actively to improve the skills of Nigerians and other Africans on information and computer technologies by seeking latest technologies and promoting embracement. v. The SDC at the Chapters and Headquarters levels shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) offices within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. vi. The SDC shall do all that is necessary using information and computer technologies towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
p. SDC Energy Development (SDC Energy)
i. This SDC shall be established at all levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for energy development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall study private and government programs on energy policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC at the Chapters and Headquarters levels shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with multinationals and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other international energy-related organizations, businesses and institutions offices within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. v. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the national and international institutions and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
q. SDC Advanced Science and Breakthrough Applications (SDC ADVANCE SCIENCE)
i. This SDC shall be established at all levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for advance scientific development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall study private and government programs on advance scientific policies and practices affecting members in their jurisdiction and devise strategies to improving the lives of members within the framework of the regulations. iv. The SDC at the Chapters and Headquarters levels shall seek maximum cooperation and working relations with national and international scientific institutions and individuals within its jurisdiction and work out programs toward improving the lives of Nigerian families and other Africans. v. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of those institutions and the various governments towards realizing the objectives of the organization.
r. SDC Private and Group Projects Development
i. This SDC shall be established at all levels of the organization composed of members with relevant skills. ii. The SDC shall be responsible for private and group projects development matters in their jurisdictions and devise strategies towards making their findings benefit the organization. iii. The SDC shall encourage private and groups to develop projects to the benefit of Nigerians and other Africans and assist such private individuals and groups in propagation of their projects. iv. To encourage dedication, productivity and utmost performance from members, all activities or operations of the organization shall be carried out with a combination of volunteering and enterprise solutions systems or rewarding and such reward shall be reported and disclosed. v. Members shall be encouraged to come forward with projects for the benefit of Nigerians and other African brothers and the organization shall endeavor use its platform to assist in the implementation. vi. Members coming forward with projects may choose to act in volunteering position or choose to be rewarded from the outcome and such members may not be prejudiced for getting rewarded from the outcome. All rewards shall be disclosed and reported. vii. The SDC shall do all that is necessary within the objectives of the organization towards encouraging individuals and groups to develop projects to the benefits of the organization.
45. SDC- General Rules: The following general rules shall be applicable to all SDCs except as provided otherwise:
a. Members of each and every SDC shall be reserved for those with appropriate influence, intelligence and connections. b. Membership of specific SDC shall be opened to any class of member either on the member’s application to the COD or the BOT or by appointment or invitation of the COD or the BOT. c. Members applying to the COD or the BOT to be appointed to the SDC shall state the reason why he should be so appointed. The COD or the BOT shall appoint such person on a temporary basis and upon performance evaluation which shall be carried out every 6 months, his appointment shall be confirmed by the COD or the BOT if the member is found to be active. d. Members of SDC may be appointed or seek to be appointed for a specific period of time or for as along as the members influence, intelligence and connections is appropriate or current. e. If the member is found not to be performing or active after one year of appointment, he shall be offered to resign from the SDC and if he or she fails to resign, his appointment shall be terminated by the COD or the BOT. f. The resignation or termination of a member in the SDC shall not in any way be used to prejudice the member as such member shall be treated as if he or she has not applied to the SDC. g. The member who resigned or is terminated from the SDC shall be free to participate in any activities of the organization including reapplying to the SDC when the member’s influence, intelligence or connections is appropriate. h. Confirmed members of the SDC shall also be evaluated annually for their influence, intelligence or connections to determine their appropriateness to continue to serve in the specific SDC as the objective of the SDC shall remain the maintenance of active members with appropriate and current intelligence, influence or connections. i. Members of specific SDC shall adopt independent and coordinated approach in their service in the SDC and shall fully disclose their activities to the SDC or the COD or the BOT. j. Members in the SDC may be asked to resign or be removed for any misconduct. The removal shall be done by the COD or the BOT. k. There shall be a Chairman of each and every SDC which shall be elected among members of the specific SDC and such Chairman shall hold office for a period of one month. The position of the Chairman shall rotate among members of the SDC on a monthly basis. l. There shall be a Secretary of each and every SDC which shall be elected among members of the specific SDC and such Secretary shall hold office for a period of three months. The position of the Secretary shall rotate among members of the SDC on a quarterly basis. m. The SDC shall hold conference meetings among themselves as found necessary and such meeting shall be presided over by the Chairman.
Article 46 The Political Intelligence Committee (the PIC)
46. The shall be established Political Intelligence Committee (the PIC) which shall be maintained at governmental levels in the Diasporas such as PIC-White House, PIC-Kremlin, PIC-10 Downing Street, PIC-State of New York, PIC-US Congress, PIC-Parliament of UK, PIC-City of New York, and such similar governmental levels.
47. The duties of PIC shall include lobbying the executives and the legislatures and establishing such political connections or moves with key persons as shall be necessary for the advancement of Nigerian families and other Africans. Such moves shall include but not limited to drawing the interest of such key persons in the advancement of the Nigerian families and other Africans.
48. Members in the PIC shall be reserved for those with appropriate and current political influence, intelligence and connections.
49. Membership of PIC shall be opened to any class of member either on the member’s application to the COD or the BOT or by appointment or invitation of the COD or the BOT.
50. Members applying to the COD or the BOT to be appointed to the PIC shall state the reason why he should be so appointed. The COD or the BOT shall appoint such person on a temporary basis and upon performance evaluation which shall be carried out every 6 months, his appointment shall be confirmed by the COD or the BOT if the member is found to be a performer.
51. If the member is found not to be performing after one year of appointment, he shall be offered to resign from the PIC and if he or she fails to resign, his appointment shall be terminated by the COD or the BOT.
52. The resignation or termination of a member in the PIC shall not in any way be used to prejudice the member as such member shall be treated as if he or she has not applied to the PIC.
53. The member who resigned or is terminated from the PIC shall be free to participate in any activities of the organization including reapplying to the PIC when the member’s influence, intelligence or connections is appropriate.
54. Confirmed members of the PIC shall also be evaluated annually for their influence, intelligence or connections to determine their appropriateness to continue to serve in the PIC as the objective of the PIC shall remain the maintenance of active members with appropriate and current political intelligence, influence or connections.
55. Members of PIC shall adopt independent and coordinated approach in their service in the PIC and shall fully disclose their activities to the PIC or the COD or the BOT.
56. Members in the PIC may be asked to resign or be removed for any misconduct. The removal shall be done by the COD or the BOT.
57. There shall be a Chairman of the PIC which shall be elected among members of the PIC and such Chairman shall hold office for a period of one month. The position of the Chairman shall rotate among members of the PIC on a monthly basis.
58. There shall be a Secretary of the PIC which shall be elected among members of the PIC and such Secretary shall hold office for a period of three months. The position of the Secretary shall rotate among members of the PIC on a quarterly basis.
59. The PIC shall hold conference meetings among themselves as found necessary and such meeting shall be presided over by the Chairman.
Article 60 The Economics and Social Intelligence Committee (the ESIC)
60. There shall be established Economics and Social Intelligence Committee (the ESIC) which shall be maintained at all levels in the Diasporas.
61. The duties of ESIC shall include carrying out economic and social intelligence as shall be necessary for the advancement of Nigerian families and other Africans. Such moves shall include but not limited to drawing the interest of such key persons in the advancement of the Nigerian families and other Africans.
62. Members in the ESIC shall be reserved for those with appropriate and current economic and social influence, intelligence and connections.
63. Membership of ESIC shall be opened to any class of member either on the member’s application to the COD or the BOT or by appointment or invitation of the COD the BOT to be appointed to the ESIC shall state the reason why he should be so appointed. The COD or the BOT shall appoint such person on a temporary basis and upon performance evaluation which shall be carried out every 6 months, his appointment shall be confirmed by the COD or the BOT if the member is found to be a performer.
64. If the member is found not to be performing after one year of appointment, he shall be offered to resign from the ESIC and if he or she fails to resign, his appointment shall be terminated by the COD or the BOT.
65. The resignation or termination of a member in the ESIC shall not in any way be used to prejudice the member as such member shall be treated as if he or she has not applied to the ESIC.
66. The member who resigned or is terminated from the ESIC shall be free to participate in any activities of the organization including reapplying to the ESIC when the member’s influence, intelligence or connections is appropriate.
67. Confirmed members of the ESIC shall also be evaluated annually for their influence, intelligence or connections to determine their appropriateness to continue to serve in the ESIC as the objective of the ESIC shall remain the maintenance of active members with appropriate and current economic and social intelligence, influence or connections.
68. Members of ESIC shall adopt independent and coordinated approach in their service in the ESIC and shall fully disclose their activities to the ESIC or the COD or the BOT.
69. Members in the ESIC may be asked to resign or be removed for any misconduct. The removal shall be done by the COD or the BOT.
70. There shall be a Chairman of the ESIC which shall be elected among members of the ESIC and such Chairman shall hold office for a period of one month. The position of the Chairman shall rotate among members of the ESIC on a monthly basis.
71. There shall be a Secretary of the ESIC which shall be elected among members of the ESIC and such Secretary shall hold office for a period of three months. The position of the Secretary shall rotate among members of the ESIC on a quarterly basis.
72. The ESIC shall hold conference meetings among themselves as found necessary and such meeting shall be presided over by the Chairman.
Article 74 OFFICERS
73. There shall be appointed, by the COD, the following officers:
a. The General Secretary and an Assistant who shall be responsible for secretarial duties b. The Treasurer and an Assistant if need be who shall be responsible for treasury services c. The Financial Secretary and an Assistant if need be who shall be responsible for financial books and records. d. Public Relations Secretary and an Assistant if need be who shall be responsible for image making and development. e. The Legal Adviser and an Assistant if need be who shall be responsible for legal matters. f. Such other officers as may be necessary for the smooth operation of the organization.
74. The auditor shall be appointed by the BOT and shall be responsible for auditing financial and operational activities of the organization.
75. The officers shall hold offices for one year renewable by the appointing body.
Article 75 THE AWARDS COMMITTEE
76. There shall be established two types of Awards Committee namely the Board of Trustees (BOT) Awards Committee and the Council of Deputies (COD) Awards Committee.
77. The BOT Awards Committee shall confer on awardees honorary awards. Honorary awards shall be conferred on awardees that have made significant contributions or achievements in this world and have identified or willing to identify with the organization.
78. The COD Awards Committee shall confer on awardees active awards. Active awards shall be conferred on awardees that have made significant contributions or achievements in this world and have identified or willing to identify with the organization and submitted to competent challenges of members of COD or of the organization.
79. Awardees will be deemed to have submitted to competent challenges if he or she has participated in a workshop, conference, seminar, meetings, forum, symposium and other similar events organized by the organization affording opportunity for questions and answers from the audience.
80. In giving COD award, the COD shall try to identify both known and unknown achievers as the purpose of this award is to award true productivity.
81. Nomination for awards shall be done by members and all such nomination shall be given due consideration. A member may nominate himself for award.
82. Awards may be given to members and non-members of the organization.
83. The Awards Committee shall also recommend or nominate members and non-members for national and international awards.
84. The Award Committee shall be responsible for the conferment ceremony.
Article 86 Meeting Makers
85. There shall be recognized members who are active in ensuring other members attend meetings and other events of the organization and or who work actively to ensure success of the programs and projects of the organization.
86. Such Meeting Makers shall be members of the BOT and such membership shall be reviewed or renewed annually.
Article 88 BOOKLET CODE
87. There shall be maintained an information booklet containing important and knowledgeable resources which shall be called BOOKLET CODE.
88. Some members of the COUNCIL OF DEPUTIES shall be expected to gain reasonable understanding of the contents of the BOOKLET CODE to maintain their membership of the Council.
89. The BOOKLET CODE shall contain the following information among others:
a. The Constitution of Nigeria b. The Annual Budget and important policy documents of Nigeria. c. Other important information on Nigeria and Nigeria current affairs. d. Important Information on the Country where the organization is situated. e. Operation of the African Union and other Regional Bodies. f. Operation of the United Nations, the Specialized Departments and other notable international institutions. g. The World Country Reports and Important World Affairs. h. Information and Communication Technology i. World Political, Economic and Social Development. j. Other Pertinent information.
90. Any member or adviser or non-member can contribute information to the BOOKLET CODE which shall be maintained by the COD and or the BOT. The BOOKLET CODE information shall be reviewed from time to time.
Article 92 AMENDMENT
91. Amendments to this bye-law shall be advised through and or by the BOT and such amendments shall be approved by the GAF.
Article 93 MISCELLANEOUS ISSUES
92. These bye-laws shall be the operating document for all levels of the organization with reasonable modifications to suite their local needs.
Article 94 RATIFICATION
93. These bye-laws shall become effective at the levels concerned upon ratification by 11 active members at the county or grassroots level, 20 active members at the state branches level or 30 active members at the country or chapter level.
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