News From Nigeria
Umeh: A benevolent politician at 60
By Michael Jegede
“The only ones among you who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve.” – Albert Schweitzer
“Never respect men merely for their riches, but rather for their philanthropy; we do not value the sun for its height, but for its use.” – Gamaliel Bailey
Distinguished Senator Victor Umeh, a quintessential leader and respected political juggernaut from Anambra State has majestically glided into the sexagenarian club as he clocks 60 years on earth.
Born on July 19, 1962, Umeh, a revered philanthropist and social justice advocate, who has made enormous contributions to the sustenance of democratic governance and nation building, can evidently be said to have lived a life of fulfilment and accomplishment at 60.
His voyage in politics began in 1998 when he joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a founding member and was elected State Treasurer of the party in Anambra State. In 2002, he was among the prominent Nigerians that worked together to form the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) where he emerged as the pioneer National Vice Chairman, Southeast. He later became the National Treasurer before his emergence as the National Chairman.
As APGA’s helmsman for over ten years, Umeh fought tooth and nail with dogged determination to keep the party afloat and alive in spite of the constant internal wrangling that was always tending to tear the party apart. Through his visionary and resilient leadership, he was able to take APGA to glorious heights amidst the infighting for which the party was known. Even after his tenure elapsed, he remained one of the strongest pillars of the party until he recently defected to Labour Party (LP) where he hopes to actualize his ambition to return the Red Chamber come 2023. He had diligently and competently represented the people of Anambra Central Senatorial District in the 8th Senate for a period of 17 months.
An established estate manager and surveyor, Umeh as Anambra Central Senator for only seventeen months made remarkably significant impact on the lives of his constituents, with the various people-oriented projects and programmes he attracted to every nook and cranny across the senatorial district. He was indeed a loud voice for his people, Ndigbo and Nigerians when issues of national importance were deliberated upon on the floor of the Senate.
A courageous leader, detribalized Nigerian and perfect example of a true patriot, Umeh was a stubborn fighter for justice, fairness and equity as a parliamentarian. The now stalwart of LP, a lover and promoter of peace, has never minced words in stressing the need to entrench and sustain a just and egalitarian society where all citizens are treated equally devoid of any form of discrimination.
When in 2018 names of board members of the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC), were submitted to the Senate for confirmation, and the Southeast and South-South were not represented, Umeh vehemently protested against the exclusion which led to an uproar on the floor of the Chamber. Notwithstanding the recommendation of the Senate Committee on anti-corruption and the position of some of his colleagues that the members should be confirmed, the astute politician strongly argued his point and insisted that the principle of federal character must be upheld. And the nominations were eventually rejected. Today, Southeast and South-South are represented on the board of the EFCC courtesy of Umeh’s doggedness.
Also in 2018, it was he who moved the very important motion on ‘Illegal Confinement of Underage Children of Nigeria Below the Age of 16 in Prisons with Adult Inmates.’ He had contended that in line with the provisions of the Prisons Regulations Act and Child’s Right Act, underage offenders and infants are not supposed to be in the same prisons with adult prisoners. The motion was rated the best for that legislative year with an award bestowed on him by the Senate Press Corps.
Many indigent students of secondary school, undergraduates and postgraduates have enjoyed scholarships from the Victor Umeh Education Foundation (VUMEF) set up in 2007 long before he became a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. In 2018, over seventy students from poor background chosen from the seven Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Anambra Central received scholarships to study at any university of their choice.
Umeh didn’t fail in his pledge to continue to lend a helping hand to his people even after leaving the Red Chamber in June 2019 upon the winding up of the 8th Senate after losing in his re-election bid then. Unlike some politicians who would go into their shells and abandon the people in anger when they lose election, the Anambra Central LP senatorial candidate poised for victory in the 2023 polls, continued to offer service to humanity with a greater commitment towards youth empowerment.
He was quoted to have said in a report: “I have continued doing all that I was known for whether in the Senate or not. I have been in the forefront of fighting for the rights of our people. The great things I was doing for my people I have continued to do them.
“My scholarship schemes are still running, producing graduates in various fields. In 2018, I gave, for a start, 76 university scholarships to students from Anambra Central Senatorial District from less privileged homes. This is the fourth year and 25 of them have graduated. The remaining ones will graduate at the end of this academic session.
“I have paid all their fees despite not being in the Senate. This is in addition to over 300 students I have on my scholarship in tertiary institutions in Nigeria.”
The Obi of Dim-Ubana Village, Oraukwu in Anambra State and former Director General of Umeh’s campaign organisation, Prince Emeka Udodeme, while eulogizing his erstwhile principal at 60, said: “Most Distinguished Senator (Dr) Victor Umeh I know is a very humble man, a practicing Christian, honest, bold, courageous and a cheerful giver. He is an amiable charismatic defender of the oppressed. He is ready to sell his property to see that the children of the poor attend school. Many have benefited from his free education foundation. He is a family man. He hates lies and deceit. He hates intimidation and believes nobody can intimidate him. He is a jolly good fellow who derives much joy in the progress of others around him.”
A receiver of several awards, honours and chieftaincy titles, Umeh was a participant at the 2014 national conference, inaugurated by the then President Goodluck Jonathan, and his presence was really felt with the valuable inputs he made despite coming in late due to the leadership crisis in APGA at that time. In appreciation of his manifold contributions and efforts towards the advancement of democracy in Nigeria, he was adorned with the National Honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 2014, shortly after the national confab came to an end.
Happily married to Lady Prisca and blessed with seven children, Umeh, a devout Catholic and Papal Knight in the Order of Saint Sylvester, belongs to a number of professional bodies within and outside the country.
As he ascends the sixth floor, I pray God to continue to bless him, grant him the soundness of body and mind, the strength and zeal to carry on with his philanthropic deeds and kind gestures towards the downtrodden.
Happy birthday Chief, the Ohamadike Ndigbo!
Michael Jegede, a journalist writes from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja
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GOV AKEREDOLU INAUGURATES COUNCIL OF OBAS, CHARGES MONARCHS TO PROTECT THEIR DOMAINS FROM CRIMINALS
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has inaugurated the State Council of Obas led by the Chairman and Deji of Akure kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi.
The Council was inaugurated at a well-attended event held at the International Culture and Event Centre (DOME), Akure, the state capital.
Governor Akeredolu congratulated Oba Aladelusi on his appointment as the chairman of the Council for a tenure of two years.
The Governor, who applauded traditional rulers in the state for joining hands with his administration in addressing the challenges of insecurity, also encouraged them to do more to secure their respective domains against criminals.
He said the State Council of Obas has, in recent years, built for itself a robust relationship with the government through its steadfastness, loyalty, sacrifice and commitment to its statutory roles.
Governor Akeredolu further expressed confidence that the new council would not deviate from the noble role but shall build on the foundation already laid down and the achievements made by the past councils.
The Governor said his administration, since inception, has been according the Kabiyesis their pride of place in the scheme of things and will not, in anyway, take them for granted.
Arakunrin Akeredolu assured the Monarchs of his administration resolve not to play down on the roles of traditional rulers and their immense contributions to governance.
“No doubt, the Council of Obas in Ondo State has come of age. The Council, otherwise known as the Council of Chiefs in the Chiefs’ Law, is established by the provisions of the Chiefs Law 1984 (as amended by Edict No. 4 of 1991) under Part V, Section 33.
“It is clear from the provisions of the law that the functions and roles of the State Council of Obas are purely advisory. I am pleased to state that the State Council of Obas has performed creditably in all the areas mentioned above.
“It is worth mentioning that the Council has, no doubt, offered invaluable advice to our administration which had helped tremendously in giving policy direction,” the Governor added.
Akeredolu further explained that his
administration remained more committed in delivering on its electoral promises, adding that he will not relent in his good works.
He noted that in spite of all odds, his administration will ensure that all State resources are pooled for maximum utilisation for the growth and development of the dear State.
Speaking after his inauguration, the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, appreciated Governor Akeredolu for approving his appointment as the Chairman of the Council.
He promised to join hands with the Governor in the fight against the common enemies of the state and the people.
The Deji of Akure particularly commended the Governor for his unwavering commitment to the security of lives and property of the people of the state.
He added that the traditional rulers in the state would continue to support the REDEEMED agenda of the government for overall development of the Sunshine State.
“Today, the roles of the traditional institutions in fighting crime, maintenance of peace, mediation between the government and her employees, mediation through alternative dispute resolution among others have continued to become more prominent and increasing in recent times.
“It is obvious that the Royal Fathers play a crucial role in curbing crimes and other social vices occasioned by the rising insecurity and its attendant effects in our country,” he added.
The Akure monarch also appreciated the Governor for backing an Akure man, Prince Ademola Adegoroye, to be Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, noting that the development gladdened their heart and would be continually appreciated by the people.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Akinwumi Sowore, who lauded the Governor for his respect for traditional rulers across the state, also commended him for his neutrality in the selection and appointment of Obas in any part of the state.
The Governor later had an interactive session with the monarchs.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; members of the State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Bamidele Oleyelogun; members of the State Executive Council led by the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu, traditional rulers across the state, among several other dignitaries.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
July 19, 2022.
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LACK OF PUBLICATIONS HAMPERING SPORTS LAW DEVELOPMENT – GOV AKEREDOLU
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has identified dearth of publications as a militating factor against sports law development in the country.
Governor Akeredolu, who described sports law and its associated businesses as money-spinners in the country, noted that the scarcity of publications on sports law and practice has made it unattractive to interested lawyers.
The Governor spoke in Abuja on Monday at the Public Presentation of a book titled “Sports Law and Practice.”
He said the book is an eye opener, adding that it will encourage interested lawyers to go into sports law with a working tool.
Governor Akeredolu said: ”You know sports are growing. Gone are those days when sports were all about amateurism. But there is professionalism now in all sports. We have professional people who are athletes. We have professional footballers.
“So, in sports in Nigeria, there is dearth of publications. I had not even seen anyone before now. This is the first one I will see. So, it is going to open everyone’s eyes.
“And as a few of my colleagues said, the President of the Bar, Awomolo and Co, this will open the door to many lawyers who can now take it up. You know so many lawyers are being turned out by the Law School in their thousands. If a few of them go into sports law or sports administration or become sports agents, a lot of money is there. So, this book could assist.
“As I said in my speech, I am a sports lover. There was a time I had to be making references or getting precedences from London to use. But people can now work on it. You heard from the representative of the Minister for Sports when he said he will now have a working tool that he can make reference to when he is advising the minister. So, it is a good book.”
The Governor, who said more lawyers will delve into sports law with the availability of the book, noted that when there is dearth of publications, lawyers don’t get interested.
“Because when you have dearth of publications, you don’t get interested in such things. But now more lawyers will get interested in sports law, and sports law can lead you into sports administration.
“If you have your laws at your fingertips and you can make reference to them easily, then nothing stops you from being a sports agents. And you will make a lot of money, much more than even practicing,” he stressed.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
July 19, 2022.
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Biggest Music Conference, Kennis Music Bites Happening In Lagos
The biggest Nigerian musical conference, designed to bring together music enthusiasts, artistes and stakeholders tagged, Kennis Music Bites, has been scheduled to take place at the Lagos Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos on Wednesday, 27th July 2022.
According to the Founder/Chairman of Kennis 104 FM, Kenny ‘Keke’ Ogungbe, the event, also tagged “The Next Episode,” is a music engagement, brand and social gifting and payment platform that leverages music and all logic of engagement to celebrate mobile consumers, ultimately creating wealth empowerment for Nigerians and the community through entertainment.
Proudly supported by Parallex Bank and Verve, the Kennis Music Bites Launch Event, which will be broadcast live on Kennis 104 FM, will showcase how Artistes, Brands, Creatives and Catalogue Owners can add and extract value from these celebration platforms to elevate the community.
The Kennis FM CEO noted, “With The Music Bites conference, it is our belief that by the end of the day, participants would be able to fully harness the new and existing opportunities available in the music space and entertainment industry as a whole.
“We also believe it would help facilitate a convergence point for networking and equip practitioners and investors with valuable insights to improve the entertainment ecosystem in the country.”
Popularly referred to as ‘Baba Keke,’ in the entertainment industry, the 61-year-old legendary Nigerian music producer, has continued to be at the forefront of promoting Nigerian music.
. Engineering construction leader donates books, writing materials to schools within Lagos Shagamu Expressway, LSE, project corridor
It was excitement galore during the week, when the nation’s engineering construction frontrunner, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, hiked up its Corporate Social responsibility efforts by donating literary materials to students in Lagos and Ogun state schools. The effort was designed to fulfil its contributory obligations to communities in its operational environment.
At Iponri Estate Junior High School in Lagos State Wednesday, no fewer than 600 students got a bag each of the literary materials comprising writing materials and an award winning African-based science fiction and fantasy written work, What Sunny saw in the Flame authored by Nnedi Okorafor.
In applauding Julius Berger’s effort, the Vice Principal of the school, Mrs Lydia Omowumi Adenigba who stood in for the Principal said, “…we appreciate Julius Berger for this laudable effort. It has been long we saw such an effort from any organisation operating in Lagos. We will no doubt cherish this day for a long time to come. Thank you Julius Berger. We so much appreciate you”
The Head Boy of the school, Master Olatuyi Timilehin spoke in similar vein adding that, “we know Julius Berger as a construction company, building bridges and roads and houses. However, today, we have seen another good thing your company does; that is promoting education. Thank you Julius Berger for this and many more social works that you do.”
Earlier, leader of Julius Berger Team to the event and Head of the company’s Corporate Communications Department, Mr. James Agama, told the students the essence of the CSR effort. He said, “Julius Berger not only builds bridges, houses and roads. We also build the future of children by promoting the educational development of students in areas where we operate. We promote your education to prepare you for future challenges.”
Next day, at the Community High School, Ibafo, Ogun State, it was a replay of same scenario as no fewer than 650 elated students sang and danced with their respective bags containing the educational materials.
Ibafo is situated east of Magado, and east of Magboro-Shofolarin on the Lagos-Shagamu Expressway.
In his vote of thanks, Vice Principal of the school, Mr. Olaniyi Olusola thanked the company for the gesture saying, “…this is a very worthy effort by your company to uplift the education of our students. We appreciate Julius Berger; Tell your management that we will be supporting them in our prayers always.”
It would be recalled that Julius Berger’s laudable and continuing CSR Literacy Campaign also took the company’s books and writing materials donation to schools at the Federal Capital Territory Abuja recently.
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PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDEMNS MURDER OF CATHOLIC PRIEST IN KADUNA, CALLS IT HEINOUS AND DESPICABLE
President Muhammadu Buhari has strongly condemned the murder of a Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. John Cheitnum of the Kafanchan Catholic Diocese, four days after he was seized by gunmen.
Reacting to the incident in Abuja on Wednesday, President Buhari said, “I am deeply disturbed by the murder of this revered religious figure by outlaws who seem to be bent on creating chaos and disorder in the country.”
He explained that “the persistent attack on innocent people, including religious figures, by gunmen is a matter of grave concern for this administration, because security is one of the major issues of our campaign promises.”
“Let me reassure Nigerians that my commitment to this issue is as firm as ever. I have always made it a duty to regularly summon security chiefs to discuss these challenges and the way forward. I’m not allowing the security chiefs to rest unless and until we find a very effective solution to this disturbing security situation. The security of all Nigerians remains our major priority and I assure Nigerians that we are determined to crush these enemies of humanity with all the resources at our disposal,” the President declared.
He extended his condolences to the family of the deceased and Christian Association of Nigeria leadership in Kaduna State over the death of Rev. Fr. Cheitnum.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the president
(Media & Publicity)
July 20, 2022
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PRESIDENT BUHARI TO KASHIM SHETTIMA: I WILL RESPOND TO YOU WHEN I AM HANDING OVER TO YOU AND YOUR BOSS
President Muhammadu Buhari struck a chord of humour on Wednesday at the State House while responding to a flowery speech by Senator Kashim Shettima, the Running Mate and Vice Presidential Candidate of the All Progressives Congress, saying, “I will respond to your speech when I am handing over to you and your boss. God willing, you are going to win.”
President Buhari, who received the VP Candidate shortly after he was unveiled by the leadership of the Party and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, said he is very happy with the choice of the former Governor of Borno State as running mate.
“I wish you the best. Your consistency in the party is very respectful. You served your two terms as Governor and finished well. You have kept touch with your base. At every important occasion or event, you are maintaining support for the one who succeeded you. This is commendable,“ he said.
The President expressed strong optimism that the APC ticket will emerge victorious in 2023.
In his remarks, the Vice Presidential Candidate thanked the President for his “empathy, support and positive role,” leading to his emergence as Running Mate to the APC Presidential Candidate.
He praised the President for having “a special place in your heart for Borno and Northeast,” adding, “I can cite 20-30 instances of support you have rendered, for which you will be remembered.”
He mentioned the establishment of the North East Development Commission, NEDC, and the Independent Power Plant for Maiduguri by the NNPC, “after many years of darkness,” saying that “words cannot describe our appreciation of your support. We will remain eternally grateful.”
The former Governor of Borno State requested the President to appreciate his successor, Babagana Zulum who was in his company, along with the Minister of State, Agriculture, Mustapha Baba Shehuri, for spurning “recurring mention” of him and pressure from his Governor colleagues to bid for the Vice Presidential ticket.
The Candidate pledged to remain “loyal and devoted” to the President, promising that his Vice-Presidency will not be for the “troika of Hausa, Fulani and Kanuri,” but for all Nigeria, irrespective of ethnicity, religion or geographical place of origin.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
July 20, 2022
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PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU RE-LAUNCHES LAGOS RESIDENCY CARD WITH SMART FEATURES
…State Targets 10 Million Residents For Enrollment Before December
…‘Registration Is Free, Card Useful For 28 Services’ – LASRRA Boss
The move by the Lagos State Government to generate a comprehensive database of all persons residing in the State has moved a notch higher, with the launch of an upgraded and chip-embedded smart residency card by the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA), on Wednesday.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu personally unveiled the smart residency card at launching events held simultaneously across five locations in the State. The locations include Ikeja, Lagos Island, Badagry, Ikorodu and Epe.
The new card offered a transition from an ordinary plastic card, meant only for identification purposes, to a smart, multi-purpose ID that combines biometric identification with other benefits, such as security, financial services, transportation and access to government services and amenities.
Lagos started enrollment of its residents for residency registration in 2011 to create a reliable database to enable effective and realistic planning by the State Government, especially for the provision of social services and amenities.
Already, 6.5 million residents had been enrolled on the database by LASRRA, with the State witnessing four-fold increment in registration in the last three years.
With the launch of digitised card format, Sanwo-Olu said the State Government would be targeting to capture 10 million residents on the database before the end of the year.
This new residency ID, according to LASRRA, is a multipurpose smart card with 28 applets that make the provision of 28 services possible to the cardholders.
The Governor said: “Today’s relaunch is borne out of the need to embrace change and align with global best practices. We have upgraded the residency card from an ordinary plastic card, for identification purposes only, to a smart, multi-purpose card that combines biometric identification with other functionalities and benefits, that cuts across areas such as security, financial services, mobility and access to government services and amenities.
“Lagos experiences significant levels of daily inbound migration of people seeking economic opportunities and a better life. As a result, our population is rising rapidly, with obvious implications for social services, social infrastructure, and for security. It has become imperative for the State Government to re-examine strategies aimed at improving the security of lives and properties of the people.
“This smart residency card being launched today will help us to address the issues surrounding the identification and traceability of Lagos residents, and ultimately help inform the Government’s planning and provision of services designed to secure lives and property. The card comes with an electronic wallet, which can hold funds and be used for daily transactions to support the cashless agenda of the monetary authorities.”
Sanwo-Olu said new visitors in Lagos who planned to live in the State for more than two consecutive months were now required to register for the residency card.
The Governor said Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) would be leveraging the database to validate residents for the purpose of delivering essential services, including health insurance, pension administration, school allocation based on residential addresses, and other necessary social amenities.
Sanwo-Olu solicited for the cooperation of all residents to register and acquire the card in order to enjoy the benefits on offer, and to enable the Government to plan effectively and allocate budget for the delivery of good governance against the backdrop of the State’s growing population.
“The political will and commitment of this administration to ensure that we are delivering on our mandate effectively and efficiently has led to heavy and ongoing investment in Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure on multiple fronts,” the Governor said.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Innovation and Technology, Olatunbosun Alake, said the launch of the smart residency card became another foundational layer on which the Government’s Smart City project would stand on, noting that the new card would also promote inclusion.
Explaining the details of the re-launched card, Alake said the registration procedure now came with elastic and expandable biometric interfaces to allow updates of information. He added that the card utilises industry standard security chips that prevent duplicated identities and profiles.
“We have a cloud redundancy system that allows 24 hours operations and a highly rated machine accuracy system. It has back-end cloud workload protection and two-factor authentication to make changes to information originally supplied, such as physical address,” Alake explained.
LASRRA General Manager, Engr. Ibilola Kasunmu, said the State could not afford to lag behind in the age of global digitalisation, thereby making the transition to smart residency card compelling.
She said the agency was motivated by the resolve to contribute to the overall vision of the current administration on finding innovative ways to improve on efficiency of governance and service delivery for the benefits of the people.
Kasunmu said: “We took account of certain limitations inherent in the initiative, developed an ecosystem framework with propositions to include a cost-effective approach to produce the smart ID cards for residents. We are glad to announce that we have been able to secure partnership of several private sector players on this laudable project as we needed to ensure the card remained free to the residents of the State. Residents are not expected to pay for the card.”
In endorsing the new digitised ID format, Managing Director of Sterling Bank, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, said Lagos remained the cradle of transformation.
The high point was the symbolic presentation of the smart residency cards to the Governor and residents freshly registered by LASRRA.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
20 JULY 2022
‘’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’
July 20, 2022
Press Statement
Osun Governorship Election: PDP Savours Appeal Court Judgment on Adeleke
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) receives with delight, the judgment of the Court of Appeal, which affirmed the PDP Governorship Election Primary that produced Osun State Governor-Elect, Sen. Ademola Adeleke, as the rightful candidate of the PDP for the July 16, 2022 Osun State Governorship election.
The Appeal Court judgement which puts to rest all contestations regarding the validity of the Candidacy of the Osun State Governor-Elect, Sen. Ademola Adeleke, comes as further validation of the Will and aspiration of the people of Osun State which they overwhelmingly expressed on July 16.
The judgment is a firm confirmation that the Osun State governorship primary was transparently conducted by the Sen. Dr. Iyorchia Ayu-led National Working Committee (NWC) in strict compliance with the provisions of the PDP Constitution and Electoral Guidelines as provided by the Electoral Act and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).
Our Party commends the Judiciary for its courage adding that the judgment has further restored the confidence of Nigerians on our judicial system and the processes of the PDP.
The PDP again congratulates the people of Osun State and charges all Party stakeholders in the State to remain united behind Sen. Ademola Adeleke in his determination to institute a transparent, people-oriented and development-based government that will rebuild and revamp Osun State from the misrule of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
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ON UNIVERSITY STRIKES, GOVERNMENT IS READY FOR BUSINESS
The outcome of the meeting held by President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday with relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to end the agitations by university unions ought to be beyond spin-doctoring and conjectures. It is a pity that almost all media houses allowed themselves to be deceived by interested sources that are not the authorized spokesmen of government.
Neither during nor after the meeting was any ultimatum given to the Minister of Education. During the meeting, the Minister of Education requested that the Minister of Labour hands off the negotiation to allow him lead and conclude what he had earlier on started with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). And he promised that he could get an agreement within the shortest possible time, possibly two to three weeks.
In carrying out this assignment, the Minister will carry along all relevant ministries and agencies with statutory functions and duties relating to the issues involved.
The Presidency is optimistic that agreements can be reached in an even shorter period if all parties/stakeholders are not unrealistically obstinate. We appeal to the parties to work together to end the strikes.
On the part of the administration, all doors remain open for dialogue and the resolution of the issues.
We appeal to the media not try to spread misinformation. The orchestrated media narratives seeking to present an entirely different picture, attributed to sources, in the last 24 hours are not helpful at all.
Garba Shehu
Senior special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
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19 June 2022
Access Bank to support education with $1.7m raised at 2022 UK Charity Polo Tournament
Seeking to improve the state of education in Nigeria, Access Bank has raised $1.7 million at its Charity Polo Tournament held at The Guards Polo Club, Egham, Surrey, United Kingdom on Saturday, 16 July 2022.
The money, the Bank confirms, will be directed towards the building and equipping of over 100 classroom blocks in the less developed areas of Nigeria.
These donations, according to the Group Managing Director of Access Corporation, Herbert Wigwe, “Serve as building blocks towards achieving a brighter future for the country, while challenging the various state governments to take sustainable actions towards ensuring all boys and girls complete free, equitable and quality primary and secondary education.”
“We thank all attendees and donors for buying into our vision and assure that Access Bank will not relent in its efforts to see that every Nigerian child regardless of tribe, gender and religion is given a fair chance for a better tomorrow.”
Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director of Access Bank, also added that the polo event remained the greatest investment towards ensuring a great future for the vulnerable Nigerian child.
The Polo tournament, which is executed in partnership with Fifth Chukker and UNICEF, in Kaduna, South Africa and the UK has been an extension of Access Bank’s efforts to support anti-poverty and anti-HIV/AIDS campaigns in Nigeria. This is the first edition of the UK-based tournament to be held since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES NEWLY ELECTED PRESIDENT OF TUC, COMRADE FESTUS OSIFO
President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with Comrade Festus Osifo, newly elected President of Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC).
The President salutes the vision and courage of the dedicated trade unionist, whose election as President of Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association (PENGASSAN) in 2020 has translated into improved welfare and working conditions for workers.
President Buhari congratulates the leadership of PENGASSAN and TUC on the historic choice, while looking forward to a partnership that will foster more development in the country, particularly for workers.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
July 20, 2022
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PRESIDENT BUHARI SHOWCASES 266 ECOLOGICAL PROJECTS COMPLETED UNDER HIS WATCH, DIRECTS MDAS TO PUBLICISE ACHIEVEMENTS
A total of 266 ecological projects have been completed across the country in the last seven years (2015-2022), President Muhammadu Buhari declared Wednesday in Abuja.
Speaking at the launch of a compendium of ecological projects undertaken by this administration, the President said 332 ecological projects were approved during the period in review, out of which 266 were accomplished while the remaining 66 are at different stages of completion.
The President, who launched the publication before the commencement of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, commended the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the Management Team of the Ecological Project Office (EPO), for the judicious use of available resources for the effective implementation of approved projects, as well as the initiative for the publication.
In order to leverage the benefits accruable to government from the commendable efforts of the EPO, and the effective communication of these efforts through the publication, the President directed Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) which have not done so to showcase their performance and achievements to the public.
‘‘The enormity of Nigeria’s ecological problems and inherited infrastructural deficit in general, has the tendency, like the proverbial drop in the ocean, to always drown our achievements in addressing ecological challenges and infrastructural deficit at large.
‘‘It is against this background that publications like the one being launched today, become very important and a useful tool in correcting the negative public perception, that government has not done anything in addressing these challenges.
‘‘The documentation and publication of these achievements in our modest effort to tackle ecological problems is therefore predicated on our quest to improve communication in governance, as a tool for keeping citizens well-informed and helping them to hold government accountable.
‘‘This is the most significant implication of the Ecological Project Office’s initiative in publishing this compendium.’’
The President noted that the Compendium, which is for the reading pleasure and knowledge of Nigerians, would bridge the information and communication gap between Nigerians and the real-time performance of this Administration by portraying the specific locations of ecological projects, with pictorial evidence as well as proofs of handing over the projects to the beneficiaries.
President Buhari urged States and Local Governments to judiciously use their shares of the ecological fund, strictly for ecological projects towards addressing the ecological problems in their areas.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, told the President that the 554-page publication supervised by the Permanent Secretary, EPO, Dr Habiba Lawal, is aimed at keeping the public abreast of the efforts of the administration in addressing verified ecological problems in ‘‘all the nooks and crannies of Nigeria.’’
He thanked the President for promoting the culture of accountability and for approving the change of name of Ecological Fund Office to EPO, for its mandate not to be misconstrued by the public.
‘‘The Office was established through the Federation Account Act in 1981, primarily to carry out intervention projects nationwide with the Federal Government share of the ecological funds, to address critical ecological problems to supplement States and Local Government shares of the fund.’’
On the Federal Government share of the Ecological Fund, the SGF explained that the latest sharing formula of the Ecological and Derivation Fund (EDF) as modified allocates 1.00 per cent to the Federal Government, 0.72 per cent to States while the Local Governments get 0.60 per cent.
He added that out of the 1.00 per cent of the Federal Government share, monthly the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) gets 20 per cent, National Agency for Great Green (NAGGW) Wall 5 per cent, North East Development Commission (NEDC) 10 per cent while the National Agricultural Development Agency (NALDA) receives 10 per cent.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
July 20, 2022
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VERIFICATION COMMITTEE DISCOVERS ONDO GOVT LOSES OVER N400M TO PAYROLL INFRACTIONS
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has directed the Head of Service to dismiss officers who are receiving double salaries from the state payroll.
Governor Akeredolu gave the directive while receiving the report of the Committee for Verification, Scrutinization and Clean-up of the State Payroll.
The Governor, who suspected that the State Payroll including salaries and pensions had been compromised, set up a seven-member committee to continuously clean up the payroll of infractions.
The committee, led by the Chairman and former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Victor Olajorin, on Wednesday submitted its report to the Governor at his office, Alagbaka, Akure.
Receiving the reports, Governor Akeredolu frowned at the different infractions discovered in the payroll.
He lamented the over-bloated workforce which he said was occasioned by many ghost workers.
The Governor also directed that all Ministries, Departments and Parastatals in the State should stop recruitment under any guise until the Salary Verification Committee has concluded its assignment.
“We have over-bloated workforce, and undoubtedly, I am sure there are many ghost workers. Those who are receiving double salaries, apart from recovering the money from them, I am directing the Head of Service to get them dismissed. They must serve as deterrent to others,” he said.
Governor Akeredolu appreciated the committee for doing a yeoman’s job and not compromising their integrity.
Earlier, Mr Olajorin informed the Governor that the first and major step taken by the committee was to contact the various service including the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Hospitals’ Management Board (HMB), Local Government Service Commission (LGSC) among others.
He noted that the committee also obtained vital documents like the Nominal Roll, Disposition List, Pay Register and Pension Payroll so as to achieve its mandate.
“The documents were consequently scrutinized and in the process, some infractions were discovered.
“Mr Governor, permit me to inform you that our beam light was initially focused on TESCOM and some of the infractions detected were about: Officers/pensioners receiving both salary/pension, retired officers later reappointed and drawing salary/pension, officers whose salaries are hanging among others.
“Details are contained in the Volume 1 report of the Committee. In the process, a sum of N304,859,812.51 was discovered as the aggregate loss to the State Government from the above infractions.
“In furtherance of our activities, attention was shifted to the pay register of Hospital Management Board. The committee carried out on-the-spot verification for both medical and non-medical personnel in their various facilities across the state.
“The exercise led to the discovery of some unwholesome practice like abscondment, study leave without pay, payment of salaries to officers after resignation, while some officers couldn’t be traced to any health facilities.
“So far, a sum of N192,873,592 has been discovered from HMB as the total loss to the State Government. Mr. Governor, permit me to mention that the Committee has so far, identified the sum of N497,733,404 for infractions in TESCOM and HMB,” Olajorin said.
The Chairman also explained that another issue of concern found by the Committee was the lopsidedness observed in the posting of officers to health facilities at the urban centres at the detriment of the ones in the ritual areas.
Other members of the Committee are: Tope Popoola Esq; Hadj Badmos; Dr. Ola Obaado; Bola Taiwo; Kayode Edema and Lawrence Akintunde.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
July 20, 2022.
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United Nations, World Bank Explore Developing Sovereign Green, Social, and Sustainable Bond Market in Africa
Addis Ababa, 19 July 2022 – The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the World Bank co-organized on July 19, 2022, a virtual workshop on the development of the Green, Social and Sustainable (GSS) sovereign bond market in Africa.
Innovative financing solutions are needed for countries across Africa to achieve their ambitious climate investment goals and meet the Paris Agreement commitments. In the context of prudent debt management, GSS bonds can constitute a central part of the financing strategy for sovereigns and subnational entities to fund both mitigation and adaptation investments.
Hanan Morsy, ECA’s Deputy Executive Secretary, said, “ahead of this year’s COP27 held in Egypt, Africa faces a mixed landscape for achieving climate ambitions and NDCs. We urgently need the 100 billion USD per annum promise to be realized, while we need a new financing target which will mobilize the trillions needed. GSS bonds play a critical role in tapping into resources at the international capital markets to unleash the potential of the green and blue economy in Africa. ECA is supporting member states under various initiatives, such as the Great Blue Wall, the Liquidity and Sustainability Facility, and debt-for-nature swaps, to graduate from the aid dependencies by leveraging market-based innovative finance instruments.
Global issuances of GSS debt reached $1.6 trillion in 2021. This was more than double the level in 2020, evidencing the surge in investor interest. However, Africa is not yet taking full advantage of the market.
“Less than 50 thematic bonds have ever been issued across Africa, and just five of these were from a sovereign. Sustainable finance, combined with sound debt management, represents a strategic way to raise the needed funds to respond to the pandemic in a way that also is resilient. Unlocking the potential for sovereign GSS bonds in Africa can only be achieved by clarifying market expectations and overcoming the knowledge gap. The World Bank, in coordination with ECA, is working on a capacity-building program to support clients in the region that will shed light on the opportunities of GSS market development.” said Jorge Familiar, World Bank Vice President, and Treasurer.
Jean-Paul Adam, Director, Technology, Climate Change and Natural Resources Management Division at ECA, said “Africa faces multiple challenges posed by the COVID19 pandemic, climate change, and the recent Ukraine crisis. While the ability to mobilize predictable grant resources from traditional concessional finance remains a crucial element in dealing with those challenges, the private sector can also play a conducive role to bridge the financing gaps. Currently, Africa is paying more than twice the price than countries with similar macroeconomic fundamentals. There is a need to provide Africa with affordable and stable sustainable financing, as sustainable finance markets are critical to addressing ‘Africa’s ambitions and achieving Agenda 2063 and the 2030 Agenda. ”
There is very strong interest from potential sovereign issuers of GSS bonds. In a recent World Bank Treasury survey of emerging market debt management offices (DMOs) and international investors across all regions, over 75 percent of DMOs intend to issue GSS bonds. These DMOs saw strong potential benefits of tapping the GSS bond market to diversify the investor base, signal a commitment to sustainability, build a local market to motivate private sector issuers, and attract international investors. International investors highlighted several reasons for their interest in thematic bonds, including achieving ESG impact, developing the thematic bond market, diversifying their portfolios, and serving their investors’ and shareholders’ direct business interests. The surveys show strong alignment between issuers and investors that thematic bonds can be essential instruments to finance the vast investments required to meet NDC and SDG ambitions.
“There is a great potential opportunity for sovereigns to tap investor demand for GSS assets both internationally and domestically. However, there are challenges that DMOs cited in issuing GSS bonds, including understanding the principles and standards for GSS bonds, the cost and intricacies of the issuance process, and difficulty identifying eligible expenditures and projects. At the moment, there are strong headwinds for emerging markets in the capital markets, but this may allow time to prepare and build capacity when the time is right to issue GSS bonds”, said James Seward, Senior Financial Officer at the World Bank Treasury.
During the workshop, technical experts discussed the importance of building awareness and exploring the potential issuance of GSS bonds in Africa by sovereign issuers or subnational entities. The panel focused on practical experiences in issuing GSS bonds, the challenges, and solutions for developing successful GSS bond programs. The panelists also discussed new market trends such as the inflation-linked green bond issuance from France and the Colombia local currency twin green bond issuance. Finally, participants shared on-the-ground experiences and lessons from the recent Egypt green bond and Benin SDG bond and the plans for future issuances by panel participants.
The World Bank and ECA thanked all the participants for their contribution and involvement during the workshop.
-Ends-
Issued by:
Communications Section
Economic Commission for Africa
PO Box 3001
Addis Ababa
Ethiopia
Tel: +251 11 551 5826
E-mail: eca-info@un.org
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. BETTY MARCHING TOWARDS PLATINUM: REMAINING STRONG AND FOCUSED STILL
Courage, as against foolhardiness, is a rare endowment in human beings. The fortitude with which a person confronts life’s adversities is a mark of spectacular feat. Surmounting these challenges and turning the lessons of a bitter, near-fatal experience to an advantage of immense benefits for humanity is the most sublime of all engagements. That the triumph becomes a perennial reason for service inspires.
Combining modesty, honesty and an uncommon, unfailing mental acuity is special evidence of a life shaped with discipline, focus and divine munificence. Only a few mortals enjoy this grace till old age. A fewer number still view living as an art which must be appreciated with creative essence.
My Adorable Betty, I have always counted myself lucky since our paths crossed over four decades ago. I could not have asked for a better partner. I live with no regrets, whatsoever. Having a friend, wife, confidant, unsparing critic and supporter, loving mother of our children, Fond ‘Gran’ of our grandchildren all rolled into a personality, has been an exceptional blessing to me. And so, blessed am I among lucky men. I cannot ask for more.
As you take steady and confident steps towards the attainment of the Platinum next year, in less than 365 days from today, I fervently pray that you continue, in good health, to impact on the society, positively. The girl-child has an unyielding and vociferous advocate in you. Women, especially widows, rely on your tremendous inputs to make life meaningful. Those afflicted with the scourge of cancer see in you a courageous exemplar, enabler, who wrestled the menace to a standstill.
The defeat of this monster has been resounding in the last twenty-five years. This feat and your ceaseless advocacy for gender representation based on equity and justice have attracted global accolades, and deservedly so. That you remain strong and healthy is not a product of mere wishful thinking. Rigorous adherence to principles of healthy living, modesty, honesty and an effacing yet audacious disposition to existential issues are the ingredients which have molded these pristine qualities into an inspiring entity which you have become among your numerous admirers. Even your adversaries acknowledge your relentless and indomitable spirit.
I celebrate you, my Adorable Betty, at 69. I will join you in the particular strides in the days ahead on a march to an assured destination. We shall have a greater cause to celebrate when you will be 70 years young next year.
Congratulations, Darlin’ me.
Arakunrin Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu, SAN
Governor, Ondo State
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