Urhobo News

SANWO-OLU COMMISSIONS MULTI-LEVEL CAR PARK, FACILITY BUILDING TO EASE TRAFFIC CONGESTION IN LAGOS ISLAND

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday commissioned a multi-level car park and facility building at Onikan to ease the age-long parking problem and ensure free flow of traffic in parts of Lagos Island.

The Governor said the facility, with a capacity to accommodate 384 cars on five suspended floors, will bring great improvements to Onikan axis of Lagos Island, reduce indiscriminate parking and greatly resolve traffic gridlocks as well as enhance the ability of businesses to effectively operate.

Speaking at the commissioning of the multi-level car Park and Facility Building at Onikan, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the “ceremony is symbolic of our steady movement towards the Smart Megacity of our dream; a Lagos where no one is slowed down and where we all succeeds together.”

The multi-level car park and facility building, which began construction in June 2013 when the incumbent Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, was Commissioner for Works, comprised five car parking floors with a capacity for 384 vehicles with offices for tickets and restrooms on each floor.

The 6th floor is designated as multi-purpose mixed-use consisting of a Club House (410sqm Capacity); two banquet rooms, with a sitting capacity of 800 and 600 persons each; Water treatment Plant, Elevators and staircases for smooth pedestrian movement, and Fire alarm systems, CCTV, data network and power.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said the facility is another step towards fulfilling one of the goals of the pillar ‘T’ in his administration THEMES Agenda, which stands for Traffic Management and Transportation

He said: “At the inception of this administration, we promised that our government will work for all, no matter your race, creed or gender. Several months after, we are still committed to this cause and this has necessitated that we expand and extend the reach of infrastructure to fast track growth and development across the State.

“Lagos Island could be modestly referenced as one of the largest commercial corridors in the state. There is, therefore, a corresponding increase in commuting, especially, high volume of vehicular traffic including social activities, culminating in traffic gridlock and pressure along this corridor.

“This Multi-Level Facility Building was conceived in 2013 to provide a solution to this problem which essentially is generated by activities related to the stadium and other primary social centres such as Island Club, Yoruba Tennis Club, Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, King George V Park, Police Command Recreational Centre as well as other facilities in the neighbourhood.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu also assured that the facility will be supported by efficient traffic management and an Automated Fare Collection Service (AFCS) – that will offer an operable payment solution to prevent traffic dovetailing into the main road.

Speaking earlier, the Special Adviser to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Aramide Adeyoye, said the commissioning of the facility is an affirmation of the resolve of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration to ensure the completion of all inherited projects.

She said: “The unprecedented growth of personalized vehicles has made the provision for parking an important aspect of transport planning which the State Parking Authority Law recognizes.  In a city such as Lagos, scarcity of land is an issue.  Hence a multi storey carpark which utilizes vertical space provides an ideal solution to overcome horizontal space constraint and regulate better traffic flow.

“In deciding to do this, we also realize that this Facility Building is significantly important because of its large size parking capacity, income generation potential and its location strategically within the heart of Onikan. Its judicious use will no doubt help absorb vehicles that would have otherwise parked on the roadside and other illegal parking places along the corridor with its attendant negative impact on traffic flow.

“Aside from creating job opportunities during execution, the facility will help solve the parking issues usually experienced within the axis. It will also reduce traffic congestion, enhance safety and security along the corridor, and of course provide aesthetically pleasing environment. More importantly, this project will complement all our efforts around the Tourism infrastructure within the precinct of Onikan.

“As laudable as the gains of this project are, there is, however, the need to understand that the challenge of sustainable infrastructure goes beyond just providing a qualitative one without provision for its maintenance.  In resolving this, we have proactively addressed issues that are likely to originate in this regard by putting in place a facility management process which kick starts into operation from today.”

Also speaking, the Deputy Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly Hon. Wasiu Sanni-Eshinlokun, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration for building the multi-level car park and facility building.

He also appreciated the incumbent government for turning Lagos Island into a tourism hub through laudable projects and facilities within the axis.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

NOVEMBER 17, 2021

PRESIDENT BUHARI HAILS DR GOODLUCK JONATHAN AT 64

On behalf of the government and Nigerians, President Muhammadu Buhari greets former President, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, on his 64th birthday anniversary, November 17, 2021, congratulating him for serving the country, and working for the peace and advancement of democracy on the African continent.

The President affirms that Dr. Jonathan continues to expand the boundaries of leadership, teaching many in the country the power of focus, consistency and diligence, having served as Deputy Governor, Governor, Vice President, President, African Union Envoy and now, Chairman of the International Summit Council for Peace Africa (ISCP-Africa).

ISCP-Africa is an association of incumbent and former heads of state and their deputies, established in 2019 by the Universal Peace Federation, an organization in general consultative status with the United Nations (UN).

President Buhari believes the former President’s profile should remind those in position and all aspiring leaders that serving the country and humanity requires sacrifice, and ultimately placing the interest of others above personal gains.

As Dr. Jonathan turns 64, the President sends warm greetings to him and his family, praying that the Almighty God will continue to sustain them in good health and all round well being.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

November 16, 2021

November 16, 2021

Press Statement

Lagos EndSARS Report: PDP Demands Prosecution of Killers, APC Collaborators

…Says Report Confirms that APC is a Murderous Party

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says the report by the Lagos state EndSARS panel confirming the gruesome killings of innocent youths at the Lekki Tollgate during the 2020 EndSARS protest, strengthened the fact that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is running a murderous and oppressive regime that has no regard for life.

Nigerians can recall how security operatives attacked and massacred innocent youths and how the APC, its leaders and agents, in various agencies of APC-controlled government, vehemently denied the killings, tried to mop up evidence and provided official cover for the killers.

The report of the Lagos EndSARS panel, which confirms the massacre of Nigerian youths in Lekki, has further shown the APC and its government as bloody liars whose hands are stained with the blood of our innocent compatriots.

It is now clear that no matter how much the wicked strive in denial, the truth will always prevail. Therefore, the blood of our innocent youths killed by agents of the APC and its administration must not be shed in vain. Those responsible for these callous acts must be made to face justice.

Of course, all those whose hands have become blood stained will never know peace.

The PDP hereby invites Nigerians to stand for our slain compatriots by ensuring that those behind the massacre of our youths as well as their supporters in government have their days in the dock.

The nation must ensure that such individuals are brought to book for their act of wickedness to humanity.

In this regard, our party insists that all those indicted by the panel should be arrested, prosecuted and dealt with in accordance with our laws.

The PDP again commiserates with the families of the slain young Nigerians, who were cut in their prime for demanding for a just, equitable and secure nation governed by the rule of law.

Signed:

Kola Ologbondiyan

National Publicity Secretary

November 13, 2021

Press Statement

PDP Congratulates Babangida Aliyu at 66

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congratulates former Governor of Niger state, Alhaji Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, Chief Servant, as he marks his 66th birthday.

The PDP is very proud of Babangida Aliyu, whose landmark developmental achievements, humility in service as well as exceptional dedication to the wellbeing of his people during his eight years tenure as the governor of Niger state earned him the sobriquet of “Chief Servant”.

As a teacher, federal lawmaker, top civil servant, who held several senior positions in the federal civil service including being a permanent secretary, and later as two-term democratically elected governor of Niger State, the Chief Servant demonstrated exceptional excellence and showed that the true essence of leadership is in using the opportunities to serve the good of others.

The PDP joins family members, relations, political associates and friends in celebrating you at this auspicious occasion and pray to God almighty to grant you many more years in good health.

Happy birthday, Chief Servant!

Signed:

Kola Ologbondiyan

National Publicity Secretary

INTRA-AFRICAN TRADE FAIR IN DURBAN: WE HAVE COME HERE IN FULL FORCE, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI

… AFRICA WILL REDOUBLE TRADE IN 10 YEARS

President Muhammadu Buhari Monday in Durban, South Africa assured participants at the 2nd Intra-African Trade Fair 2021, that his delegation is attending with ‘‘full force’’ to maximize the advantage of the gathering.

Addressing the opening ceremony of the event, the President said:

‘‘Let me assure you that Nigeria has come to Durban in full force to actively participate in this very important trade fair and take full advantage of all the opportunities it provides.

‘‘We have streamlined the country’s participation under one roof to enable you access all the information you need.”

President Buhari’s expectation of a good performance by Nigerian businesses at the Durban Fair is hinged on the outcome of the last edition in Cairo, Egypt at which they got deals worth over 3.3 billion Dollars.

Current records show that Intra African trade accounts for only 15 percent of their transactions.

The President expressed optimism that the creation of the biggest free trade area in the world, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), will work, especially with the active collaboration of the public and private sectors.

He canvassed support for the implementation of the free trade initiative, listing several benefits to the continent, including doubling trade in 10 years and reducing over-reliance on imports.

The Nigerian leader expressed concern that most of Africa’s existing challenges, whether security, economy, or corruption, can be traced to the inability over the years to domesticate the production of most basic requirements and provide jobs to her teeming and dynamic youth population.

‘‘Under the African Continental Free Trade Area, we can double our intra-African trade by 2030, reduce our reliance on imports and therefore create more jobs within the continent.

‘‘We cannot achieve this goal by talking alone. The implementation will be a difficult journey. But all challenges are surmountable if both the public and private sectors collaborate.

‘‘On the public sector side, Governments must support local entrepreneurs to build scale and therefore improve productivity.

‘‘This means providing incentives to encourage our businesses to formalise and comply with laid down regulations,’’ he said.

On the rules of engagement for the free trade initiative, President Buhari reminded fellow Heads of State and participants at the trade fair:

‘‘Free trade must also be fair and fairness can only be achieved when there is full compliance with regulations, especially those relating to rules of origin.

‘‘The AfCFTA is for “made-in-Africa” products and services.

‘‘Africa must be a marketplace where no country is left behind. As we implement, we must ensure that we create jobs and enhance revenues for all parties.

‘‘We must leverage on one another’s strengths to succeed,’’ he said.

President Buhari also used the occasion to call on businesses in Africa to key into existing regional value chains or build new ones, either to extend operations into the higher value segments of their industries or to satisfy the Area’s rules of origin requirements.

He expressed delight that the Intra-African Trade Fair was uniquely positioned to help in these areas.

The President stressed that the Nigerian economy under his administration had witnessed a re-engineering.

‘‘As many of you are aware, in the past five years, Nigeria has made significant strides towards the diversification of her economy from an oil revenue-dependent country to a nation with diverse revenue sources.

‘‘We were able to achieve this by putting in place fiscal, monetary and trade policies that support investments and investors in key sectors such as Agriculture, Mining, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, Banking and Financial services, tourism, and manufacturing,’’ he said.

Declaring that Nigeria is open for business, the President highlighted that progress was being made in the reforms of key institutions, the fight against corruption as well as the ease of doing business in the country.

He congratulated the African Union Commission, the AfCFTA Secretariat and the Africa Export-Import Bank for their dedication and relentless effort in seeing the Trade Area become a reality.

‘‘Today is a great day for Africa as we start our collaborative journey towards collective economic prosperity through the African Continental Free Trade Area. I very much look forward to seeing more African products manufactured in Africa using African resources.

‘‘I also commend the people of Durban for hosting this year’s Intra-African Trade Fair. I sincerely hope that we will witness milestone agreements among African businesses at this gathering.

‘‘Through these gatherings, we will be laying a solid foundation for future business-to-business, business and government, and government-to-government co-operation,’’ he said.

Garba Shehu

Senior Special Assistant to the President

(Media & Publicity)

November 15, 2021

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH ALIKO DANGOTE, FAMILY OVER PASSING OF BROTHER, SANI DANGOTE

President Muhammadu Buhari commiserates with Founder/Chairman of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, over passing of his younger brother and Vice President of the Dangote Group, Sani Dangote on Sunday.

President Buhari joins the family in mourning the industrious son, who over the years played a key role in the success of the family business, dedicating his time to ensure fairness and optimum result in all endeavours.

Reputed for his gentleness, loyalty and generosity, the President urges approximation of his wonderful deeds on earth, praying that the Almighty God will grant him eternal rest.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

November 15, 2021

WE APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT FOR THE NIGERIAN ECONOMY, PRESIDENT BUHARI ASSURES AFREXIMBANK

President Muhammadu Buhari Sunday in Durban, South Africa assured that the Nigerian government will continue to support efforts to broaden the economy through multilateral financing.

The President spoke when Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) paid him a courtesy call ahead of the opening ceremony of the 2nd Intra-African Trade Fair Conference in the South African city on Monday.

“I appreciate the support you are giving Nigerian businesses and by implication, the Nigerian economy. Rest assured you can count on me as you seek a better trade and investment climate in Africa.

The President of the bank who came in company of the Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, Wamkele Mene, thanked President Buhari for honouring the invitation of the South African President to attend the Afreximbank-backed Fair, joining other Heads of State, saying it clearly demonstrated that “President Buhari understands the importance of trade and how Intra-African trade can help transform the African economy and of course, that of Nigeria.”

He also appreciated the Nigerian leader for granting the land and accepting to grace the occasion of the ground-breaking ceremony of the Africa Medical Centre of Excellence project to be implemented by the continental bank in Abuja in December.

Prof. Oramah reiterated that Nigeria is an important market for the bank “with an exposure of 5.5 billion dollars and it was therefore imperative that we continue to engage Nigeria at the highest level.” He said Nigerian businesses got deals worth over 3.3 billion dollars during the first edition of the event in Cairo, Egypt, adding that more is expected at this year’s Fair with an assurance that Afreximbank would be ready to support such business deals emanating from the event “especially considering the support we have seen from the President.”

According to him, “Nigeria’s participation was essential as the largest economy in Africa. Africa needs Nigeria as Nigeria needs Africa. Anything we do at the continental level that does not have Nigeria is seen globally as incomplete.”

Garba Shehu

Senior Special Assistant to the President

(Media & Publicity)

November 15, 2021

JULIUS BER WINS 6^TH CONSECUTIVE AWARD AT #IAMBRANDNIGERIA’s TOP 50 BRANDS

The country’s widely acknowledged leading, most dependable and innovative engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, has strongly won for the 6^th consecutive time its top rating as Nigeria’s Most Valuable Brand in the Building and Construction Services Category at the TOP 50 BRANDS NIGERIA awards.

The construction experts, last week retained its top position in Nigeria’s construction sector in recognition of its outstanding quality, innovativeness and best international standards and practice in the building and construction industry for 2021.

At a well-attended zoom event anchored from Lagos, and with the who is who in the various industrial sectors in attendance, Julius Nigeria emerged the winner in the building and construction sector with a Business Strength Measurement, BSM of 60.5 to strongly beat and best its own previous performance records in all the previous years at the ratings.

According the Mr Taiwo Oluboyede, the CEO of the BrandNigeria event, Top Brands Nigeria, the BSM ratings of nominated companies are determined by their individual Brand Identity and Client Retention, Quality Elements, Market or Category Leadership, Innovation, National Spread, Online Engagement and their respective Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Consciousness and engagement.

According to Mr Taiwo Oluboyede, “Julius Berger has a progressive and open-minded corporate culture. The company never stands still in its efforts to drive both the organization and its clients’ developments forward to its sworn allegiance to success.”

Julius Berger was also positively cited for its culture of punctuality and capacity to arrive on schedule for its tasks. Executive Director Administration of the company, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi, later told our correspondent in a telephone interview that:  In Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, punctuality is the soul of business; as a propelling operational policy, we seriously work to arrive at every milestone and assignment as planned. That corporate culture proudly productively underpin our company’s reliability to our clients in every project. That is what we strongly bring to every work and project as our proud historical legacy; a tenacity and consistency of purpose that has made us win the highly coveted construction sector leadership award for the 6^th consecutive time. We intend to maintain our productive momentum and remain the trusted and preferred partner when project timelines and success matters most to the client. That is Julius Berger’s lasting and reliable promise. On behalf of the Board, Executive Management and entire Staff of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, I wish to appreciate and thank the BrandNigeria organization for this valuable award, and for the objectivity that has continued to guide the ratings, keeping the nominations for the awards only merit-driven.”

The CEO of BrandNigeria, Taiwo Oluboyede, had earlier noted that it has been widely observed and acknowledged that: “no matter the challenges and regardless of the scope, Julius Berger approaches each project not only as a contractor, but as a partner for project success.” Tracing the history of its works in Nigeria back to the construction of Eko bridge in Lagos in 1965 which it added “still stands strong today” the Top 50 Brands Nigeria CEO said “…it is a testimony to Julius Berger’s leadership in delivering enduring quality.”

Furthermore, Mr Oluboyede speaking from the citation of Julius Berger from the BrandNigeria 2021 Manual, said that, among many other fine technical qualities of Julius Berger, the company places emphasis on the deployment of progressive construction methods and innovative technologies to achieve sustainable and value-driven solutions as the scope of Julius Berger’s operations covers “all areas of construction including the pre and post phases. Success is built on the strategy of having vertically integrated operations, which improve efficiency and timelines of project execution.”

To underscore the foregoing, Top Brands Nigeria said, “Julius Berger is a brand that is unmistakably recognized throughout Nigeria, a brand that has built a track record of delivering the highest level of performance and a brand synonymous with quality and reliability.”

The Chief Executive Officer of Top Brands Nigeria, Mr. Taiwo Oluboyede in his opening remarks at the landmark event congratulated Julius Berger Nigeria and other sectoral winners declaring that, “today, these are the best top brands in Nigeria.”

Other winners at the award event included the Dangote Group, Conoil, Oando, Shell, Total, Globacom, Guinness, Coca-Cola, Nestle, MTN, Airtel, Guaranty Trust Bank, Zenith Bank, Access Bank, Nigeria Breweries, Toyota, the Honeywell Group, Lafarge, Channels Television, etc.

South-South women knock Akpabio’s critics

• Accuse NDPF, IIA, others of laughable antics

Women in the South-South geo-political zone on Sunday praised the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, for inspiring the people of the region with fresh hopes and vigour.

In a statement in Benin, the women applauded Akpabio for proving his sincerity by remaining constant to the Niger Delta cause.

‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is working hard in the interest of the Niger Delta people’’

The statement signed by the Coordinator of South-South Women Alliance (SSWA), Dr. Mary Alli, praised Akpabio for showing prudence, wisdom and courage.

The statement described the attitude of President Muhammadu Buhari as friendly.

‘’The news story on the scrapping of NDDC is false, provocative and mischievous. It shows disgraceful ignorance of the discussion in Nigeria on the repositioning of NDDC and development of the Niger Delta region’’ the statement said.

The statement emphasized the great work of organization in the Niger Delta development Commission (NDDC) and the services of Akpabio to the good people of the region.

‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is zealous in our cause. The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs is doing good service. He is promoting the interests of the Niger Delta people’’.

The statement threw a good deal of light on the positive change in the feeling of the people towards the All Progressives Congress (APC) government in the country.

Alli expressed the gratitude of the group to President Muhammadu Buhari for paying special attention to the Niger Delta.

The women also thanked warmly the leadership of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the Ijaw National Congress (INC), the Ikwerre People’s Congress (IPC) Worldwide, Isoko Development Union (IDU) and the Movement for the Survival of Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) for supporting the Federal Government reforms in the Niger Delta region.

They emphasized Akpabio’s plans for the people, his present services to the country, skill and wisdom of his recent pronouncements on NDDC’s board, forensic audit report and the region’s development agenda.

The women criticized the Ijaw Interest Advocate (IIA) and Niger Delta Peoples’ Forum (NDPF).

Specifically, the women expressed discontent with the impotent views of Chief Boma Ebiakpo and Mr. Arerebo Salaco Yerinmene.

‘’Some people care for nothing but their selfish interests’’ the statement added.

PRESS RELEASE

EndSARS PANEL: SANWO-OLU SETS UP FOUR-MEMBER COMMITTEE FOR WHITE PAPER REPORT

• Committee to submit Report in Two weeks
• Okuwobi: Panel treated 235 petitions, awarded a total of N410 million to 70 victims

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday set up a four-member committee led by Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN) to raise a White Paper on the reports submitted by the Judicial Panel of Inquiry on Restitution for victims of SARS related abuses and other matters.

Other members of the committee are; Commissioner for Youths and Social Development, Mr. Segun Dawodu; Special Adviser, Works and Infrastructure, Engr. (Mrs) Aramide Adeyoye and Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Office, Mrs. Tolani Oshodi.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said the Committee would bring forward a White Paper within the next two weeks to be considered by the Lagos State Executive Council, pledging that the reports and recommendations will be made public and submitted to the National Economic Council (NEC) for discussion.

The Governor constituted the committee after receiving the two reports of the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry on Restitution for victims of SARS related abuses and other matters presented to him at the Lagos House, Ikeja by chairman of the panel, Justice Doris Okuwobi (retired).

The two reports submitted by the Panel to Lagos State Government are on investigation on petitions on several abuses and killings by the Nigerian Police, especially the disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and the October 20, 2020 Lekki Toll Gate shootings during the EndSARS protests hijacked by hoodlums.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also reassured Nigerians, especially residents of Lagos that the Government’s action would be guided by the law and in the public interest.

The Governor, expressed hope that Lagos State government’s decision on the reports would bring complete healing, reconciliation and restitution.

“I am going  to constitute a four-member committee immediately, which will be headed by the Attorney-General, the Commissioner for Youths and Social Development, the Special Adviser on Works and Infrastructure and the Permanent Secretary, the Cabinet office.

“The four of them will immediately look through and bring forward a White Paper within the next two weeks that will be considered at the Lagos State Executive Council and would be gazetted as a white paper coming from the Panel of Inquiry.

“We will ensure that the recommendations that are coming out that will be turned into a white paper and would be made available to the public. We will do it appropriately so that history will judge us well and we will have a document that will stand the test of time. That is what the tribunal law says, so that it will be properly documented and gazetted in government’s records,” he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu who pointed out that the panel had operated independently, commended members of the Justice Okuwobi-led panel for a job well done and also expressed appreciation to Lagosians for their cooperation during the exercise, which lasted for almost a year.

Speaking earlier, Justice Okuwobi expressed deep appreciation to the Lagos State Government and all the stakeholders who appeared before the Panel. She also thanked members of the Panel for their uncommon resolve to bring closure to the assignment and good team work.

She said part of the recommendations of the panel is establishment of a body to take over human rights abuses in Lagos.

Justice Okuwobi, who disclosed that the panel awarded a total of N410 million to 70 victims of Police brutality, said 235 petitions were received with only 14 of it being on the alleged Lekki Shooting incident.

“As much as the panel desired to have taken all petitions, the ones that were not taken by the panel were those that did not comply to our rules, so in this report, we made recommendations for a body to take over human rights abuse cases in Lagos State,” she said.

It would be recalled Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on October 19, 2020 inaugurated the Judicial Panel of Inquiry to investigate alleged cases of brutality and human rights violations perpetrated by the Police and operatives of the dissolved Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).

The panel was also saddled with the investigation of the alleged shootings that took place on October 20, 2020, at the Lekki Tollgate.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

NOVEMBER 15, 2021

SANWO-OLU URGES STATE GOVTS TO CUT DOWN ON WASTE, EXCESS FOR ECONOMIC STABILITY

• Says robust Public Finance Management system critical pathway for efficient, effective delivery of dividends of democracy to citizens

• Lagos deserves special attention, says Kogi Commissioner

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has advised state governments to cut down on waste and excess, and ensure that every unit of surviving expenditure delivers maximum value and impact, for the benefit of the populace.

He said the ultimate goals must be value for money, and the enhancement of the quality and timeliness of service delivery.

Speaking on Monday at the National Council on Finance and Economic Development (NACOFED) Conference held at Marriott Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, Sanwo-Olu said a robust Public Finance Management system is the critical pathway for the efficient and effective delivery of the dividends of democracy to the citizens, which according to him must be carried out in a manner that is transparent and accountable to all.

Governor Sanwo-Olu in his keynote address during the conference entitled “Public Sector Finance Management in the New Normal, (Post Covid-19)” said the gathering would provide an opportunity to share thoughts, exchange views and forge a common front in addressing some of the fiscal and socio-economic challenges foisted on the country by the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said: “What the pandemic (COVID-19) has done is to compel us all, whether in the public or private sectors, to focus more attention on exploring ways ‘to do more with less.’ We have been forced to find ways of optimising spending, to ensure that, one, we are cutting down on waste excesses and things that we do not need, and two, that every unit of surviving expenditure delivers maximum value and impact, for the benefit of our populace.

“This is the time for Commissioners for Finance and Commissioners for Economic Planning to be sincere with their principals, who may have asked you to do the impossible. But indeed, we know this is the time for you to be frank and sincere to your principal that we have to think out of the box. You have to be very creative and do away with what will not be considered as important this time.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu also commended the Federal Government for faithfully implementing various initiatives aimed at improving the quality of Public Financial Management in Nigeria.

He said initiatives like the Treasury Single Account (TSA), the Presidential Initiative on Continuous Audit (PICA), the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS), among others, including the States’ Fiscal Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability Programme for Results (SFTAS) Programme, have provided support to States to help them achieve desired fiscal reforms underlined by prudence, openness, transparency and accountability.

The Governor said the programme has also highlighted to States the need to redouble efforts aimed at increasing Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

He said: “We must rapidly embrace technology as a tool for increasing transparency and accountability, as well as expanding citizens’ access to public services in a manner that is cost-effective and solution oriented. Every opportunity to reduce non-essential spending must equally be seized with both hands. And, very importantly, we must invest in building the human capacity required to adapt seamlessly to the social, legal, technological and policy demands of the new normal.

“Here in Lagos State, we are doing a lot in that regard, from cleaning up our public payroll system, to embracing automation and technology in the management of land and property records and processes, to restructuring loans and bonds to ensure a productive lowering of our debt service costs, and also to exploring innovative ways of mobilising capital to deliver on our vision of a truly 21st Century Megacity.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu also reiterated Lagos State’s commitment and continuous support to the Federal Government’s policies and programmes.

“The Lagos State Government, under our watch, will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders, public and private, on this journey to the attainment of a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

The time is now, for all hands to be on deck to rebuild from the disruptions occasioned by the pandemic. The goal of this rebuilding must not be to restore the old economy that COVID disrupted, but instead to build a new one that is fit-for-purpose for the 21st century and fit for the new reality of a post-COVID planet,” he said.

Speaking earlier, the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Dr. (Mrs) Zainab Ahmed, said the Federal Government remains committed to the reforms the Muhammadu Buhari administration has started, which according to her are aimed at enabling the business environment, creating the right fiscal space for investment and diversification of the revenue base of the economy.

She said: “The last couple of years presented series of challenges to us as a nation and the entire globe. From the decline in revenue to slow growth and recovery largely due to the fall in crude oil prices on account of falling global demand and the containment measures to fight the spread of COVID-19, which affected virtually every sector of the economy.

“The good news, however, is that our recovery rate from the pandemic has been sustainably good and encouraging. Fortunately, things are now looking up for us and our economy is bouncing back to normal. Based on the current economic outlook, our economy is projected to grow by 1.5 per cent this year and 2.9 per cent in 2022. Therefore, as we move to the reset opportunities, our focus should be on growing and consolidating the recovery efforts.”

In his goodwill message, the Chairman of Senate Committee on Finance and Senator representing Lagos West Senatorial District, Senator Adeola Solomon, said the government should develop and push for appropriate measures that suit the country’s situation, especially in dealing with post-COVID 19 issues.

Also speaking, Kogi State Commissioner of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Asiwaju Ashiru Idris, said Lagos State deserves special attention and therefore called on the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), to consider special status for Lagos State anytime they are going to review the revenue formula.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

NOVEMBER 15, 2021

SANWO-OLU RAISES 10-MAN PANEL TO ASSESS LASU’S OPERATIONS, STAFF WELFARE

• Visitation team’s report expected in Eight weeks

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday, constituted a full Visitation Panel that will conduct holistic assessment into the Lagos State University (LASU) administrative process, academic programmes, finances, and staff welfare in order to ascertain if the school is being run in accordance with provisions of laws that set it up.

Composition of full Visitation Panel for the school was part of the recommendations submitted to the Governor by the Prof. Bamitale Omole-led special panel which, after resolving the crises that rocked selection of substantive Vice-Chancellor (VC), prescribed the need for a full panel to inquire into the level of implementation of the White Paper on the last Visitation Panel Report of 2009.

Former University of Lagos (UNILAG) VC, Prof. Abdulrahman Bello, is the chairman of the 10-man full Visitation Panel; Director of Investigation in the Office of Special Adviser on Education (OSAE), Mrs. Yemisi Omoloye, is the Secretary.

The Bello-led team has eight weeks to submit report on 11 terms of reference it is charged to examine.

Sanwo-Olu said the raising of the full panel demonstrates his administration’s commitment to positioning LASU as the best in quality research, pedagogical and administrative excellence, as well as industrial harmony.

The panel, the Governor said, would examine the relationship between various internal organs and units in the school, including registry, bursary, Works and Maintenance Services, Health Services, and Departments, while also finding out how laws had been observed or flouted by the relevant authorities, propose modifications to enable the university achieve its objectives.

He said: “This full Visitation Panel is being inaugurated based on the recommendation of the Prof. Bamitale Omole-led LASU Vice-Chancellorship Special Visitation Panel, which was constituted to resolve the issues that trailed the appointment of the university’s 9th Vice-Chancellor.

“We have carefully selected the members of this 10-Man team to examine 11 terms of reference, which shall include examining financial management of the university, statutory allocations and internally generated revenue over the recommended period and determine whether it was in compliance with appropriate regulations, statutes, acts and laws of the university.

“The panel will examine compliance with the law and extant regulations of the university in terms of promotion, welfare, and disciplinary procedures for both staff and students. It will also consider any other factor that will enable the university to better achieve its objectives and make recommendations as necessary. I am confident that these seasoned professionals will justify the trust reposed in them.”

As part of the panel’s duties, it is expected to Investigate the application of special grants and subventions for accreditation exercises, TETFund grants and loans meant for specific projects, while also determining the status of ongoing projects and their relevance for further funding.

Sanwo-Olu promised not to interfere in the discharge of the panel’s duties, expressing hope that the recommendations would be helpful for the State Government in tackling pressing challenges being faced by the university.

“I urge you to consider your appointment a call to duty and an opportunity to make significant contributions to LASU’s growth and development,” the Governor charged the panel members.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, Hon. Tokunbo Wahab, said the raising of the full Visitation Panel was the last leg of the Omole-led team recommendations being implemented by the Governor, noting that a thorough assessment would help put all challenges facing the school in the last 12 years to a rest.

Bello, a professor of Chemical Engineering, assured the Governor that the university would come out healthier after the work of the panel members.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

NOVEMBER 16, 2021

• Press Statement

Enlightenment/Sensitization Visits: RIWAMA Monitoring Team Storms Oginigba, Rumuobiakani, Others

…As Sole Administrator, Bro. Obuah Harps On Need For Environmental Cleanness At All Times

…Warns Traders To Stop Bringing Out Wastes Outside Government Approved Hours Of 6pm To 12midnight On Account of Thursdays Market Sanitation

The Monitoring Team of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) on Enlightenment/Sensitization on indiscriminate dumping of refuse, dumping time and indiscriminate dumping of refuse on market sanitation days, continued its visits to markets and other public places, Tuesday morning, with a visit to Oginigba, Rumuobiakani communities and its environs in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of the State.

The team, which was led by the Sole Administrator of the Agency, Bro. Felix Obuah, watched with approval as traders and residents who were taken unawares by the visit, hurried to sweep and pick up debris on the roads and around the gutters.

Represented by the Director of Environmental Health/Operations, Mrs. Helen Ohaka, Bro. Obuah appealed to residents on need to ensure their environments are kept clean at all times, warning that the Agency frowns seriously on indiscriminate dumping of refuse, non-observance of dumping hours and littering of markets with debris.

Further warning that Sanitation Marshalls have been dispatched to arrest those who dispose of refuse indiscriminately, especially at the median of roads, Bro. Obuah disclosed that any one arrested would be charged before the Sanitation Court, warning that to be forewarned is to be forearmed.

The RIWAMA boss noted that almost every day, the Agency embarked on public enlightenment and sensitization campaigns against indiscriminate dumping of wastes, waste management and educating the people on dumping time of 6pm to 12midnight, stating that the task of keeping the roads, markets and other public places clean and healthy at all times must be done by all and sundry.

Reaffirming his stance that those who flout sanitation rules are enemies of the State, Bro. Obuah stressed that residents and those living and doing business in Port Harcourt, the State capital and its environs have no excuse to dump refuse indiscriminately as receptacles have been strategically positioned close to business and residential places.

He appealed to traders and residents to join hands with the State government to keep the streets, markets and other public places clean at all times.

Reaffirming the warning that the Agency would not fold its hands and watch unpatriotic agents sabotage the efforts of RIWAMA, Bro. Obuah urged residents and traders to reciprocate the good efforts of Governor Wike who is working tirelessly to sustain the Garden City status of the state.

Bro. Obuah also warned traders to stop bringing out wastes outside government approved dumping hours of 6pm to 12midnight, on account of Thursdays Market Sanitation.

Jerry Needam

Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to

Bro. Felix Obuah, Sole Administrator,

Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA).

Tuesday, November 16, 2021.

CDWR SUPPORTS THE PLANNED WARNING STRIKE OF RAILWAY WORKERS

WE DEMAND IMPROVEMENT IN WAGE AND WORKING CONDITION

Campaign for Democratic and Workers’ Rights (CDWR) supports the planned three-day warning strike to be embarked upon by the Railway workers from November 18, 2021.

The Nigerian Union of Railway Workers is embarking on strike action due to poor remuneration and poor working conditions. The management of the Nigerian Railway Corporation and Federal Government have failed to accede to the demands of workers for more than a year and also several months after holding a meeting with the Minister of Transport Rotimi Amaechi.

The reality is that the present wage framework based on the N30,000 minimum wage has been eroded by high inflation and the ever-rising cost of living. This is the more reason workers across sectors should get wage increments in line with the inflation. We challenge the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to initiate a struggle towards achieving a new minimum wage that meets the present economic realities side by side with enforcing the implementation of the current one

We call on the management of the Nigerian Railway Corporation and the Federal Government to meet the demands of the railway workers for improved wages and better working conditions.

CDWR calls on the leadership of the Nigerian Union of Railway Workers to make the strike an active one and mobilize public support through press conferences, rallies, etc. We also call on NLC and TUC to support the strike and give active solidarity.

SIGNED

Comrade Rufus Olusesan                                                    Comrade Chinedu Bosah

National Chairperson                                                              National Publicity Secretary

Press Statement

Enlightenment/Sensitization Visits: RIWAMA Monitoring Team Storms Oginigba, Rumuobiakani, Others

…As Sole Administrator, Bro. Obuah Harps On Need For Environmental Cleanness At All Times

…Warns Traders To Stop Bringing Out Wastes Outside Government Approved Hours Of 6pm To 12midnight On Account of Thursdays Market Sanitation

The Monitoring Team of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) on Enlightenment/Sensitization on indiscriminate dumping of refuse, dumping time and indiscriminate dumping of refuse on market sanitation days, continued its visits to markets and other public places, Tuesday morning, with a visit to Oginigba, Rumuobiakani communities and its environs in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of the State.

The team, which was led by the Sole Administrator of the Agency, Bro. Felix Obuah, watched with approval as traders and residents who were taken unawares by the visit, hurried to sweep and pick up debris on the roads and around the gutters.

Represented by the Director of Environmental Health/Operations, Mrs. Helen Ohaka, Bro. Obuah appealed to residents on need to ensure their environments are kept clean at all times, warning that the Agency frowns seriously on indiscriminate dumping of refuse, non-observance of dumping hours and littering of markets with debris.

Further warning that Sanitation Marshalls have been dispatched to arrest those who dispose of refuse indiscriminately, especially at the median of roads, Bro. Obuah disclosed that any one arrested would be charged before the Sanitation Court, warning that to be forewarned is to be forearmed.

The RIWAMA boss noted that almost every day, the Agency embarked on public enlightenment and sensitization campaigns against indiscriminate dumping of wastes, waste management and educating the people on dumping time of 6pm to 12midnight, stating that the task of keeping the roads, markets and other public places clean and healthy at all times must be done by all and sundry.

Reaffirming his stance that those who flout sanitation rules are enemies of the State, Bro. Obuah stressed that residents and those living and doing business in Port Harcourt, the State capital and its environs have no excuse to dump refuse indiscriminately as receptacles have been strategically positioned close to business and residential places.

He appealed to traders and residents to join hands with the State government to keep the streets, markets and other public places clean at all times.

Reaffirming the warning that the Agency would not fold its hands and watch unpatriotic agents sabotage the efforts of RIWAMA, Bro. Obuah urged residents and traders to reciprocate the good efforts of Governor Wike who is working tirelessly to sustain the Garden City status of the state.

Bro. Obuah also warned traders to stop bringing out wastes outside government approved dumping hours of 6pm to 12midnight, on account of Thursdays Market Sanitation.

Jerry Needam

Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to

Bro. Felix Obuah, Sole Administrator,

Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA).

Tuesday, November 16, 2021.