News From Nigeria
LAGOS 2023: SANWO-OLU KICKS OFF CAMPAIGN AT EHINGBETI SUMMIT, SAYS SOME OPPONENTS ARE NOISE MAKERS
…Governor launches Lagos Development Plan 2022
…Signs State Wealth Fund, Civil bills
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday kicked off his campaign at the Ninth Ehingbeti Summit in Lagos, saying he is the best among the governorship candidates in the State based on his administration’s track records in the last three and half years in line with the THEMES developmental agenda for Greater Lagos.
He described some of those contesting against him in the March 11, 2023 governorship election in Lagos State as ‘noisemakers’, noting that when it’s time, men would be separated from toddlers.
Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke at the Closing Ceremony of the Ninth Ehingbeti Summit held at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island Lagos on Wednesday.
The Governor during the event launched the Lagos State Development Plan 2052, a 30 years plan from 2022 to 2052, to chart a growth path for the State. He also signed the Lagos State Wealth Fund Bill and Lagos State Civil Bill.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Lagos State Government and Del York Group for Lagos Film City as well as the MoU between the State Government and Siemens Energy for Electronics Technician training with Siemens Energy.
Speaking on the 2023 governorship elections in Lagos State Governor Sanwo-Olu said he believed the people of Lagos State will do the right thing in next year’s election by re-electing him.
He said: “Today is the day that INEC officially flagged off campaigns for governorship and House of Assembly elections. And there is no better time for me to do my official flag-off than at an economic summit like this where we are talking about our city, our people and Greater Lagos. What we are talking about is real; people can feel and they can see it.
“Some people can come here to claim anything. Some candidates would go about and make a lot of noise. They don’t even know what governance is all about. We have done a lot and people can feel it. People know this is a government that works for them.
” It is not about us; it is really to create that enabling environment for them (the citizens) to do well. Lagos State has witnessed prosperity in the last three and half years even in the COVID environment and that is the trajectory in which we want to continue. So, tell the noisemakers that after the noise, there would be calm and Lagosians will truly understand what we are talking about.”
Speaking on why he deserved to be re-elected, Governor Sanwo-Olu said: “For me, there can never be any better campaign; there can never be an any better conversation and there can never be any better means of showing and showcasing what this government has done for the past three and half years than what you all have seen here in the last two days.
“I want to tell all Lagosians that it is as clear as day and night. Of course, there are a lot of people on the bill. There are a lot of noisemakers on the bill. There are a lot of other people that don’t even know their right from the left on the bill.
“I know there are a lot of other people that are out and shouting. Let them shout but after the shouting, there would be calmness because indeed you Lagosians know the right thing to do. And you will do the right thing by voting for us and re-elect us to continue with the great work that we’re doing.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
12 OCTOBER 2022
PRESS RELEASE
12th October, 2022
Delta’s Job Creation Marvel: Upright, Decent, Reliable, Says PDP; Accuses APC Of Pull Him Down Syndrome
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State has accused the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) of unabashedly playing politics of pull him Down syndrome and spreading distorted information to deceive the people.
PDP made the charge in a Press Release issued by the State Publicity Secretary, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza in response to comments attributed by an online news medium to the APC’s State Publicity Secretary, Mr. Ebata Onojeghuo Esq. in a story with the headline: “223,000 Direct Jobs: Delta APC blast Okowa, says it’s disingenuous attempt at scoring cheap political points … they are mostly political appointees, aides, and Keke riders”
Criticising the comment for its deviousness, a silly stunt done to trick and mischievously mislead Deltans and other members of the public to believe its lie, Delta PDP said it would have been surprised if the APC officials had not acted true to type in their worthless criticism of the administration of His Excellency, and go-getting and amiable Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa.
The PDP debunked the APC claim, pointing out that the information that APC is trying to tar with its sly comment is the incontrovertible and honest truth of the solid facts of the job creation marvel of Governor Okowa that is second to none.
The splendid scorecard of the PDP administration is the fulfillment of the Governor’s campaign promises on job and wealth creation since 2015. It is the hallmark that has defined the Governor as the “Talk na do” governor and the people’s beloved “Ekwueme.”
For the sake of properly informing those who genuinely want to know the fact and authenticity of the extent of the impact that the job and wealth creation efforts of the PDP administration has made since 2015 to date, it has become necessary for the PDP to declare that the facts stated by the Governor are correct, honest and candid. He is the one who is driving the administration and so no one can tell the story of his success and achievements better than him. And the facts are verifiable by anyone who sincerely wants to know the truth, not those who see the declaration as an opportunity to display wickedness and impugn the integrity of the well-meaning Governor just for political reasons. The facts and figures in the scorecard as made by the Governor are evidence-based, verified, and authoritative. These facts and truth are accordingly reiterated as follows:
initiatives in skills development, skills upgrading, entrepreneurship
training, enterprise microcredit, livelihood sustenance, business
support grants, market linkage support, and public service jobs placement.
effects of public infrastructure works, Public Private Partnership (PPP) investments, sector-specific programmes, community-level and local government-level projects and youth empowerment grants and related programmes.
Delta PDP expresses its disappointment with the opposition party that rather than make attempt to verify claims on the job and wealth creation efforts of the government, it prefers to describe the truth as “disingenuous attempt to score cheap political point.” This is bad politicking and therefore unfair, as it is only a scheme to mislead and create disaffection in the people against the Governor, and their beloved PDP.
It is equally unbecoming for an online news medium that lays claim to being dispassionate to fall for the deception of APC by posing such infantile questions to a political party’s opponent while in a competitive political race. The answer is already a foregone conclusion. Because what the online news medium did can be likened to placing a party’s head on the board while arming the opponent with a well-sharpened machete of compromised questions and asking the opponent to chop off the head of its rival.
A medium with good intentions would have asked its reporter to go independently and verify the claims of the Governor and then confront him or his officers with its findings subsequently. The PDP in Delta is therefore challenging the online medium to do its own independent finding and cross-check with what the Governor presented before swallowing the mendacity claims of a political competitor. We state categorically that the claims of the Governor are solid, honest, and not the product of anyone’s imagination.
In another attempt to further rubbish the good deeds of the Governor the APC talked about factories, this is illiterate thinking. The system the Government of Delta State adopted in job and wealth creation is the strategy of seven social investment and job creation programmes including YAGEP, STEP, YAGEPRENEURS, and STEPreneurs among others, through giving them skill acquisition trainings to produce a complete set of graduands having full complements that will make the youth fully developed to be job and wealth creators and employers of labour. Of course, the good news is that many who have benefitted from these programmes have limitless joy for the opportunity, as many express gratitude to the Governor for his kind gesture as they tell their stories amid tears of joy. Will APC and the online medium say that they don’t listen to other mediums including national television stations whose news crews attend these programmes and air their reports with shots of proceedings and participants of the programmes? Participants in the reports are even captured making comments about how glad and pleased they are with the programmes and how it has brightened their future by giving them hope for a better living.
It needs also to be pointed out that among the television houses that cover the job creation training programmes of Delta State Government is the TVC, a television broadcast station owned by the APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, now presidential candidate of APC. TVC reports the event whenever the trainings are commencing and the graduation ceremonies. So, what is the APC so-called State Publicity Secretary trying to prove? Nothing indeed, but mischief in hack writing.
Of course, it is a pat on the back for Governor Okowa that he has found a way to provide succour to Deltans who otherwise would have been jobless by giving them appointments as special assistants with job descriptions and specifications. It is better imagined what the fate of these fellows would have been without the opportunities given to them. But the APC is displaying bad belle, an expression of sadism. For the party, these people should be left to rot and pine away in ignominy and obscurity with nothing and in abject poverty. This, for us in PDP is the product of the ingenuity of a compassionate Governor, one who detests seeing people, especially the able bodied and intelligent youths stranded and frustrated in the society. We rather give kudos to the good-intentioned Governor Okowa for this nice gesture.
It is against all the above that we thank the people of Delta State for not falling for the deception of the desperate APC, who seeks to play foul to come into government in the State. Indeed, Deltans know where their bread are been buttered. And it is in PDP. They are well aware of the APC story of bad government and governance at the Federal level, especially the sorry state of things in the country today. Rather than cry wolf where there’s non, Deltans are asking APC to sell their candidates and programmes rather than engaging in propaganda and using unfair and foul tactics of trying to hit Governor Okowa below the belt.
Thank you Deltans for believing in Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, thank you youths of Delta for expressing your gratitude for the opportunities you have to better yourselves through the job and wealth creation programmes of the PDP-led State government. Thank you for always making Delta PDP and PDP Delta.
PDP! Power to the people!!
Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza,
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.
State Police, panacea to Nigeria’s security challenges – Okowa
Delta Governor and Vice-Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, on Wednesday said one veritable measure for addressing insecurity in Nigeria was for States to operate their separate police systems.
He stated this in his remarks at the annual conference of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) in Abuja, and noted that there had been a consensus among the citizenry for State Police in the country as a way of reducing crime rate.
Okowa said that it was unfortunate that the Federal Government had remained indifferent on the issue, and assured that PDP administration would enact a law to empower States to run their separate Police systems.
According to him, with State Police where indigenes will ensure protection of lives and property in their areas, criminal activities would be curbed drastically.
He particularly stated that State Police would help in the effective enforcement of anti-open-grazing law in the states.
The vice-presidential candidate reaffirmed that a PDP government in the country would ensure that some powers were devolved to the states for better development of all areas across the country.
He said that the country’s economy was in a bad state, and promised that Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) as the bedrock of every economy, an Alhaji Atiku Abubakar administration would give that sub-sector priority attention.
He added that to attract and stimulate investment in the country under a PDP government, energy issues and other malignant infrastructural drawbacks would be aggressively addressed.
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PRESS RELEASE
The federal approval recently granted the Lagos State Government to embark on the development of a passenger and cargo airport on the Lekki-Epe axis of the State has been officially presented.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday, received the Federal Government’s instrument authorising the State to commence the airport project.
Minister for Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika, presented the document to the Governor on behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari at the ongoing Lagos Economic Summit (Ehingbeti) 2022 taking place at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island.
Lagos Government initiated the aviation project, through a Public Private Partnership (PPP), in response to the pace of development on Lekki-Epe axis, which is now a fast-growing hub of commerce and industrial activities. The entire airport infrastructure will be sited on 3,500 hectares, with the first phase of the project estimated to cost $900 million.
Some private consortia have already expressed their interests in developing the airport, but Lagos Government is yet to decide on which investors to partner on aviation infrastructure.
Sanwo-Olu described the approval as another “successful step forward” towards delivering his administration’s agenda of Greater Lagos and keeping the State on the path of irreversible economic prosperity.
The Governor said the development was a triumph for the vision of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who initiated the Lagos Economic Summit where the idea of the airport started.
He said: “Granting the licence for the airport project is a right step in the right direction. For us, it is all about partnership for the greater good of our State. The real beneficiaries are the citizens and the businesses that will be using the infrastructure to activate more economic prosperity. We are bringing the Government to tap business opportunities, while also providing platforms for businesses to flourish. That is how great economies are developed.
“The foundation of growth is building requisite infrastructure and creating platforms for businesses to thrive. This aviation infrastructure will reduce journey time and make commercial hubs in Lagos easily accessible. It would help investors to make best local and international business decisions, given all the investments that have been brought to the Lekki Free Trade Zone.”
Sirika said the federal mandate to Lagos Government on the airport project enjoyed accelerated approval, because of the growing need to further link Lagos and Southwest to international markets and regional trade.
The project, the Aviation minister said, would transform the GDP of Lagos and create jobs for the national economy. He said the airport would complement the existing Murtala Muhammed International Airport whose operation is overstretched.
“There has been an expansion in Lagos, from Eko Atlantic City to Lekki Free Trade Zones. This growth necessitated the need for another airport in Lagos. We will deploy our statutory agencies to ensure the project is done in compliance with international standards,” Sirika said.
Declaring the two-day summit open, Sanwo-Olu said Lagos had begun its race to building a prosperous future with the introduction of a 30-year growth plan that would bring the State on the same pedestal with developed cities in 2052.
He said the Government’s pathways to the future were planned based on the projection of creating and implementing localised solutions within the context of unique socio-economic realities facing the State.
Sanwo-Olu said the State would have an allowance to look outside for inspiration, but stressed that all suggested ideas must be considered on the foundation of deep local context and adaptation.
He said: “Over the next two days, we will listen to policy-makers, thought-leaders, futurists, disruptors, innovators, investors, and economists among others; all united by an abiding focus on the development trajectory of Lagos.
“They will share insights and offer perspectives on Lagos’ pathways to the future, most especially the solutions that can be readily implemented within the context of our unique circumstances. Indeed, the emphasis on ‘home-grown’ and localised solutions is very important.”
Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Sam Egube, said the summit had offered Lagos a better deal in growth prospects, as the State harnessed robust conversations with key private sector players.
Egube said the State Government had implemented 210 of the 222 resolutions reached in the past eight editions of the economic summit, adding that the engagement with the private sector had helped improve accountability in governance.
The summit chairperson and Partner, PwC Nigeria, Mrs. Mary Iwelumo, said the ongoing event, which is the 9th edition in the series, recorded historic participation of 30,000 participants within the country and overseas.
The summit attendees include members of the State Executive Council, current and past elected public office holders in Lagos, captains of industry, business leaders, diplomats, entrepreneurs and investors.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
CITIZENS WHO CONTRIBUTE TO NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT DESERVE APPRECIATION, PRESIDENT BUHARI DECLARES AS 443 CITIZENS, 7 FOREIGNERS GET NATIONAL HONOURS
President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday in Abuja conferred National Honours on 450 Nigerians and non-Nigerians, who have distinguished themselves in the service of the nation and humanity, saying that citizens who contribute to national development deserve to be encouraged and appreciated.
Leading the 2022 National Honours Award recipients, in the category of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) are Senate President Ahmed Lawan, Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, immediate past CJN, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, Director-General, World Trade Organisation (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Deputy Secretary-General of UN, Amina Mohammed and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Prof Tijjani Muhammad-Bande.
Speaking at the event, the President commended the National Awards Committee headed by the highly revered Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad I, a retired Justice of the Supreme Court, the Emir of Lafia, for a great and patriotic duty by diligently going through over 5,000 submissions and coming up with these recommendations.
The President noted that the screening and selection of nominees for this year’s award as always, followed established broad criteria, in accordance with the National Honours Act CAP.N43 of the Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.
They include but not limited to: ‘‘consistent and meaningful participation in community and/or national development; rendering unsolicited, selfless and philanthropic services to humanity; outstanding sacrifice in the defence of a cause popularly adjudged to be positive, relevant and beneficial to the nation and community.’’
Other criteria listed by the President for selecting the recipients are:
‘‘Distinct act of bravery in the protection and/or defence of national interest, public peace, safety of life and property.
‘‘Remarkable achievement in any field of expertise where the person’s activities in that field have made significant contributions to the attainment of national goals and objectives.
‘‘Immense contributions towards the uplift of community, state, nation and/or humanity through achievements by way of inventions and bringing outstanding honour and glory to the state through personal dedication and patriotic commitment. Service with integrity is also a basis for the selection process.’’
Emphasising that nation building involves a lot of sacrifice by the citizenry, the President declared that citizens who contribute to national development deserve to be encouraged and appreciated.
He, therefore, lauded the 2022 National Award recipients for distinguishing themselves in various ways ‘‘for the purpose of recreating a new Nigeria of our dreams through respect for the rule of law, image laundering, transparency and accountability in management of scarce resources.’’
Equally, the President added that those in the private sector have also creditably discharged themselves in business, entertainment, hospitality, transportation and other forms of human endeavours to transform Nigeria.
‘‘We have amongst the recipients today, Amb. Prof. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Ms. Amina J. Mohammed and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who are doing our country proud on the international scene. Our dear sisters are a source of inspiration to our young women that through the dint of hard work and dedication, they can achieve greatness.
‘‘We also have on the list, Imam Abdullahi Abubakar, a religious leader who hid over 262 Christians in his mosque from attacks in Yelwa Gindi Akwati village, in Plateau State. He is a good example of religious tolerance we preach amongst Nigerians. I am excited that he is being honoured today with Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
‘‘Worthy of mention are our Artistes, particularly, our very own Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu (Burna Boy), who won the Grammy Awards in 2020. He along with other artistes have repositioned the Nigerian entertainment industry and placed it on the global map. At the just concluded Dubai Expo 2020, Nigeria’s pavilion was a beehive of activities as our musicians entertained guests from around the world.
‘‘Despite the present economic challenges, Nigeria still boasts of men and women of integrity; Ms. Josephine Agu, an airport cleaner returned $12,200 found in a toilet at Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos as well as Ogbanago Muhammed Ibrahim, a bank security man who found and returned $10,000.
‘‘Today, we celebrate their dignity and strong strength of character by conferring National Honours on them.
‘‘They are a shining example to our younger generation.
‘‘I congratulate all the recipients today who will be joining the league of Awardees.
‘‘I appreciate the non-Nigerian recipients and assure all of you that this administration will continue to provide the enabling environment for you to undertake your lawful businesses to allow you to sustain your efforts at contributing to the development of our nation, Nigeria,’’ he said.
The President acknowledged that the list of awardees is justifiably long because the exercise has not been carried out since 2015.
He recalled that since the inception of this administration, there has not been such occasion like this where individuals and friends of Nigeria have been so singled out for investiture except for the Special Investiture Ceremony in honour of Chief MKO Abiola, Alhaji Baba Gana Kingibe and Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN.
The President noted that the Investiture Ceremony for Abiola and others was specially carried out to right the wrong done in the past, to assuage our feelings and to resolve to stand firm now and in the future for the sanctity of the electoral process and our democracy.
In like manner, he said, the country’s athletes were also honoured recently for their spectacular performances in several competitions.
He appealed to other Nigerians who are yet to receive this recognition to be patient and understand that their efforts in nation building are appreciated and at the right time, would similarly be recognized.
‘‘This administration will continue to partner with Nigerians and friends of Nigeria with like minds in our efforts to build the Nigeria of our dreams where everybody will strive to excel in their chosen fields devoid of parochial sentiments,’’ he said.
President Buhari also used the occasion to remind the recipients and other Nigerians that National Honours are not merely decorative, saying:
‘‘They remind us of an important part of our responsibility as citizens. We must always endeavour to do our best for our country.’’
The President restated the commitment of the Federal Government, under his leadership, to root out all forms of banditry, criminality, terrorism and insurgency in the land.
He reaffirmed his solemn pledge in the Independence Day address to the nation of handing over a Nigeria that is free from insecurity to the next generation of leaders.
The award, which is in 10 categories, was presented to Supreme Court Justices, judges, top lawyers, incumbent and former governors, Ministers, traditional rulers, creative artistes, politicians, businessmen, athletes, security officers who died in the line of duty, and other distinguished Nigerians.
A total of 6 persons were conferred with GCON, 55 received Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), 65 got the Commander of the Order of Niger (CON), 77 were presented with the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR); 110 received the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON); 74 were presented with Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) and 55 received Member of the Order of the Niger (MON).
There were four recipients each for the Federal Republic Medal I (FRM I) and Federal Republic Medal II (FRM II) Second Class) respectively.
The seven foreigners honoured received the OFR Award.
Speaking on behalf of the Awardees, the Senate President thanked the President for the honour, pledging that the award is an encouragement to more work and a call to duty to serve Nigeria with renewed strength, loyalty and honesty.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 11, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI IN CHAD, ASKS FOR PATHWAY TO ENDURING DEMOCRACY
President Muhammadu Buhari, who is the current Chairman of the Lake Chad Basin Countries, LCBC, Monday joined the celebrations of the people of Republic of Chad in inaugurating their interim administration to lead the country to elections and the formation of a democratic government.
At a bilateral meeting held by the two leaders, shortly before the inauguration of General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno as the Head of the Transition Government and Head of State to oversee the transition process, President Buhari congratulated the country’s leader on behalf of the LCBC for earning the trust of the majority of Chadians to head the transition process to full fruition.
The President equally congratulated the participants of the just-concluded Inclusive National Dialogue for the patriotism they demonstrated in reclaiming their country from the path of instability and repositioning it for sustainable governance and development.
President Buhari expressed hope that the event will, “hopefully bring to closure, the painful phase of the Chadian political history which led to the sad passage of one of Chad’s most illustrious sons, late Marshal Idriss Deby itno.”
President Buhari extolled the Chadian state’s responsible engagement within the sub-region and beyond, citing the country’s “very active involvement in the collective activities for peace within the LCBC and MNJTF, the Sahel and in the reactivation of her relationship with Sudan,” which he said were exemplary.
The President expressed his hope and that of the LCBC, which he chairs, that “today’s event will usher in another period of peace and stability within Chad and our sub-region in order to build on the gains of previous efforts.”
President Buhari urged all stakeholders in the Chadian political process to work towards consolidating and re-establishing a resolute, resilient and sustainable democracy for the benefit of the good people of Chad.
At the ceremony, the Head of the Transition Government, thanked President Buhari for the warmth and friendliness he had demonstrated towards the country and sub-region, especially in ensuring peace and stability.
Itno commended the Chairman of the LCBC for historic interventions in upholding the interest of the Chad Basin, and Africa, assuring that President Buhari’s leadership had been impactful.
He promised to put in place a transition process that would reflect the will of the people, while focusing on ameliorating poverty through provision of quality education, better health facilities and sustainable infrastructure.
President Buhari returned to Abuja after the ceremony in N’Djamena.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 10, 2022
GOV AKEREDOLU RECEIVES NATIONAL HONOURS AWARD
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has received the National Honours Award of the Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON.
The National Honour was conferred on Governor Akeredolu by President Muhammadu Buhari at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, on Tuesday.
In a brief interview after the ceremony, the Governor said the award has reinforced and strengthened his belief in Nigeria.
He said: ”This award means a lot to me because I never expected it. So, for the Federal Government to think about giving me this Honour, I want to thank the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Whether we like it or not, the struggle for a better Nigeria is what I stand for, and I believe that is being recognized. I thank Mr President and the Committee.
“The Honour will reinforce my strong belief in Nigeria. You know I have always believed strongly in Nigeria and I have always said Nigeria is a must.
“So, my belief in Nigeria is reinforced and strengthened. This will renew our belief in the country and support for her. I strongly believe in Nigeria and that stands forever.”
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
October 11, 2022.
JULIUS BERGER WINS 7TH CONSECUTIVE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR LEADERSHIP AWARD AT #IAMBRANDNIGERIA’S TOP 50 BRANDS 2022
The Country’s practically most reliable and innovative engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, has robustly for the 7th consecutive time won top rating as “Nigeria’s Most Valuable Brand in the Building and Construction Services Category” at the Top 50 Brands Nigeria Awards.
At a ceremony to unveil the Top 50 business brands in Nigeria last week in Lagos, the highly acclaimed construction experts, again retained its leadership position in Nigeria’s engineering construction sector in recognition of its outstanding and ever trustworthy quality, brilliant innovativeness and operational best international standards and practice in the building and construction industry for the year 2022.
At the eagerly anticipated annual national brands evaluation event anchored in Lagos, where who is who in the various industrial sectors are assessed and named with ranking awards, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc emerged the winner in the building and construction sector with a Brand Strength Measurement, BSM, of 66.5, notching up an additional 6 points to strongly beat and best its own previous brand performance record of 60.5 points at the previous 2021 ratings.
The Chief Executive Officer of Top Brands Nigeria, Taiwo Oluboyede in his opening remarks at the landmark event congratulated Julius Berger Nigeria Plc and other sectoral winners declaring that, “…today, these are the Best Brands in Nigeria”.
According to Mr. Taiwo Oluboyede, the CEO of Top Brands Nigeria, the drivers of the #TOP50BRANDSNIGERIA awards, the Brand Strength Measurement (BSM) ratings of nominated companies are determined by their consistency of corporate mission, professional resilience, individual Brand Identity, Client Retention, Quality Elements, Market Category Leadership as well as a brand’s Diversification activities and Productivity. Other BSM assessment considerations include Innovation, National Spread, Online Engagement and a brand’s Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Consciousness and engagement. According to Taiwo Oluboyede, “…This becomes the objective measurement and merit-driven outcome of the annual brand research endeavour, where we evaluate a brand’s ability to deliver on its promise to its customers or clients who consume its products and services from the customers’ or consumers’ point of view….”
Oluboyede speaking from the citation of Julius Berger from the BrandNigeria 2022 Manual, further 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. He said 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, the Top Brands Nigeria CEO 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”.
Congratulating Julius Berger at the unveiling of the 2022 awards in Lagos, Taiwo Oluboyede reiterated that“…the engineering construction leader is a company seized of a progressive and open-minded corporate culture constantly progressively driven by a development and growth-oriented Board and executive management. The company empirically never stands still in its efforts to drive both the Organization and its clients’ developments forward to its sworn allegiance to good success”.
Julius Berger at this year’s event was also again positively cited and commended by Taiwo Oluboyede for its consistent business culture of punctuality and capacity to arrive on schedule and well prepared for maximum productivity in all of its projects and operational tasks with ready clients.
It would be recalled that the Executive Director of Administration of Julius Berger, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi, earlier told news correspondents during one of the company’s media parley events that: “…In Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, punctuality is the soul of business and, as a propelling operational policy, we seriously work to arrive at every milestone and assignment as planned. That corporate culture proudly and productively underpins our company’s reliability to our clients in every project. That is our proud historical legacy; a tenacity and consistency of purpose that has made us to consistently win the highly coveted construction sector leadership award…” Bayi added that, “…we promise to maintain our matchless productive momentum and remain the trusted and preferred partner when project timelines and success matter most to the client. That is Julius Berger’s lasting and reliable promise.”
With regard to the 2022 construction sector leadership award to Julius Berger, Alhaji Bayi who had to give his remarks on the telephone from offshore where he was for official assignment said: “…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 define the ratings, keeping the nominations for the awards only merit-driven”.
The CEO of BrandNigeria, Taiwo Oluboyede, had earlier noted that since the advent of Julius Berger in Nigeria for the construction of Eko Bridge in Lagos in 1965, the engineering construction company has historically and decisively stood strong as a preferred partner for project success anywhere there is an engineering challenge in the country
Besides Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, other winners at the 2022 BRANDNIGERIA TOP50BRANDS Award event included the Dangote Group, Globacom, Lafarge, MTN, Oando, FCMB, Access Bank, Coco-Cola, Zenith Bank, First Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank, UBA Plc, Nestle, Cadbury, BUA Group, Fidelity Bank, Total energies, Guinness, Airtel, Nigeria Breweries, Toyota, P&G, Channels Television, Samsung, Multichoice, etc.
Rt. Hon Dum Dekor, HYPREP Team Tour UK Over Ogoni Remediation Exercise
…Very Revealing, Says Rt. Hon. Dekor
The Chairman of the House Committee on Host Communities at the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dumnamene Robinson Dekor who was part of the Nigerian delegation to the United Kingdom, as part of federal government’s effort to clean up the impacted sites in Ogoniland, Rivers State has described the tour as very revealing.
The federal lawmaker who represents Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, embarked on the tour alongside members of the Board of Trustees, Governing Council as well as projects officers of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Projects (HYPREP).
Addressing journalists on his return to the country at the weekend, Rt. Hon. Dekor, who was a former Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly as well as one time Works Commissioner in the state, said the tour which he described as very revealing would help in applying similar measures in addressing the Ogoni clean-up exercise.
He disclosed that the delegation which was led by the Minister of Environment, Mohammed Abdullahi and also, some Nigerian stakeholders in the United Kingdom took their time to observe models of successful remediation projects.
Supported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Rt. Hon. Dum Dekor added that the visit also exposed the HYPREP team to the intricate processes of remediation exercise, and established linkages with advanced laboratories engaged in the analysis of ground water and soil samples.
He said the team understudied the Australian Laboratory Services (ALS) in relation to evaluating air pollution management.
“It was very revealing to me. I think I’m privileged to be part of the tour. We have gone through several parts of the UK and have seen a lot of practices and techniques, from what we saw, that most of the sites are being remediated and asides that, nobody is living there. A lot of them are also sites that have been in that condition for so many years”, he said.
Those in the team were the Honourable Minister of Environment, Mohammed Abdullahi, Senator Representing Rivers South East Senatorial District, Senator (Dr) Barry Mpigi, the Director General of National Oil Spell Detection and Response Agency, NOSDRA, Idris Olubola Musa, Coordinator of HYPREP, Dr. Ferdinard Giadom, Representatives of UNEP, Chairman, HYPREP Board of Trustees, Dr. Mike Nwielaghi, Public Relations Officer of Central Representative Committee, CRAC, HRH, Suanu Baridam, members of HYPREP Board of Trustees and Governing Council amongst others.
The study tour of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, of the United Kingdom, October 2 to 8th, 2022 involved visits to projects where environmental remediation has been undertaken, is in progress or where relevant expertise is available.
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU MULLS HEALTH INSURANCE COVER FOR THEATRE PRACTITIONERS
…As Governor put smiles on the faces of veteran actors
…Nollywood practitioners endorse Lagos Governor for second term
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced plans to institute a health insurance scheme for theatre practitioners in the State.
Governor Sanwo-Olu announced the health insurance scheme during a dinner with veterans in the Yoruba Nollywood industry at the Lagos House Marina on Monday night.
The announcement by Governor Sanwo-Olu was commended by the Nollywood actors and actresses at the event who appreciated the Governor for deeming it fit to take care of the health of the theatre practitioners, especially the veterans in the industry.
It would be recalled that in recent times, theatre practitioners battling various health challenges and lacking funds have had to take to social media to beg Nigerians to foot their medical bills. Some are also living in penury due to their inability to work in old age and health challenges.
Sanwo-Olu, who said he would pay the insurance premium cover for the theatre practitioners, most of whom are aging, said the Nigerian movie industry and practitioners had played key roles in shaping development of Lagos.
He said: “We realise that your industry is one of the highest employers of labour. You have continued to provide succour and means of livelihoods to a lot of citizens quietly. More importantly, you give freshness to our lives through your stories. There is always a lesson and information to learn from the experiences you paint in your works. You fill in the creative space of our society and project good values about our culture, way of life and race.
“It is interesting to see your industry grow, even without enough support. You are able to stand and build names around the industry. As a Government, some of the interventions we have brought forward to assist your industry are not out of place; it is your right and entitlement which makes the Government to look back in assistance to further shape our society for greater good.
“To further enhance our intervention, we are going to initiate an insurance scheme to assist the Nollywood and give the practitioners free access to health care in public health facilities. This scheme will be specially categorised for professionals in the film business. This is yet another token of what the Government can offer those who have shaped our society. The insurance scheme would come in handy for practitioners who cannot afford medical expenses and prevent them from seeking assistance in an embarrassing manner.”
The Governor said his administration would continue to contribute required resources to the entertainment and creative industry to make life easy for the theatre practitioners. He also pledged to provide additional intervention funds for those in the Nollywood industry.
Sanwo-Olu, in the wake of the COVID-19 lockdown, approved a N1 billion intervention fund for the film industry. The intervention was as a single-digit soft loan initiated to cushion the effect of the pandemic, among other incentives, for the creative and entertainment industry.
The fund has been accessed by many practitioners in Nollywood, who used the grant to fund for movie production. The additional support, Sanwo-Olu promised, will boost the creativity and innovation in the sector.
The Governor commended the efforts of Nollywood Actress, Mrs. Foluke Daramola-Salako, who operates an Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Passion Again Rape and Abuse in Africa, which is seeing to the wellbeing of veterans in the industry. Sanwo-Olu said his administration would continue to reach out to the movie legends through the platform.
“This is a new beginning of the journey that will further strengthen Nollywood; we are going to be interacting more with every layer in the industry and provide opportunities where necessary. We want to be a partner in bringing this noble industry out for more growth and celebrate the industry veterans while they are alive,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Speaking earlier, some of the theatre practitioners at the event, including, Adebayo Salami, a.k.a Oga Bello, Jide Kosoko, Adewale Elesho, Idowu Phillips, a.k.a Iya Rainbow and Mahmoud Alli-Balogun, commended the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration for carrying out people-oriented programmes and projects which according to them are people-oriented qualify him for a second term in office.
The theatre practitioners during the event unanimously endorsed Governor Sanwo-Olu for second term and promised to work for his victory in the 2023 governorship election in Lagos State.
They also expressed their support for the candidature of the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who, according to them, has done a lot for theatre practitioners.
The dinner was attended by over 100 Yoruba theatre practitioners, directors, producers and marketers, among which are Tade Ogidan, Lere Paimo, Fausat Balogun, Iyabo Ogunsola, Yomi Fash-Lanso, Charles Olumo, Saidi Balogun, Toyin Adegbola, Taiwo Hassan, Damola Olatunji, Bimbo Akintola and Eniola Badmus, among others.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
11 OCTOBER 2022
PRESS STATEMENT
SPN WELCOMES PLANNED SALARY INCREASE FOR LAGOS WORKERS BUT CALLS FOR RESISTANCE AGAINST ANTI-POOR POLICIES OF THE APC GOVERNMENT
The Lagos State Chapter of the Socialist Party of Nigeria (SPN) welcomes the planned salary increment announced by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu while addressing a gathering of workers during a visit to the office of State Head of Service on October 4.
According to news reports, Governor Sanwo-Olu disclosed that since September he had instructed, the “Head of Service (HoS), the Commissioner for Establishment, Training, and Pensions to work out modalities for salary increases for the entire over 100,000 public service workforce.”
However, we urge Lagos State workers, public sector unions as well as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), to follow up on the verbal pronouncement, as it could be an ordinary political talk for the purpose of securing workers support in the forthcoming general election. Indeed, we call on them to demand the involvement of Lagos state joint negotiation committee in working out the said modalities.
To us, an upward review in wages is long overdue not only in Lagos but nationally. Given the economic hardship, high inflation, and high prices of foodstuff, fuel and electricity, ordinary working class families are at the receiving end. This is a result of anti-poor capitalist policies, something only compounded by the effects of the coronavirus pandemic and the Russian war on Ukraine.
Indeed that the Lagos state governor said he was “not going to wait for the Federal Government’s minimum wage increase confirms the fact that the current minimum wage, which is still not being implemented by some states is due for a national upward review
Therefore, we reiterate our call on the NLC and TUC to begin to demand a new national minimum wage while at the same time fight for the full implementation of the current one by all the state governments. We also call on NLC and TUC to demand a reversal of neo-liberal policies (privatization of power, deregulation of the oil sector etc) and resist cuts in social service, education and healthcare underfunding etc.
However, we frown at the fact that the same Lagos government that wants to be seen as pro-people with the promise of an increase in workers’ salaries is compounding the economic hardship being faced by the ordinary people in the state. For instance, it recently increased the monthly refuse disposal bill by 50 percent and hiked BRT fare. At the same time, the state miscellaneous offence taskforce and its local governments criminally extort ordinary Lagosians on daily basis with obnoxious and outrageous and multiple fines and taxes.
Besides, there here are shortages of teachers in most schools. Lagos State government should employ more teachers and rehabilitate dilapidated school buildings. Also, the state government should pay many primary school pensioners who work as gatemen at most schools in Lagos State but have yet to receive their pension after four years of retirement.
Therefore, we call on Lagos state public workers and other ordinary people not to drop their guard because of the planned salary increase, which is possibly done in order to woo support for the APC in 2023 elections, but be prepared to resist all anti-poor policies of the APC governments in Lagos and at the federal level.
SIGNED:
Rufus Olusesan Moshood Osunfurewa
Chairperson, Lagos SPN Secretary, Lagos SPN
JULIUS BERGER AFP: VICE-PRESIDENT YEMI OSINBAJO VISITS AFP EXHIBITION PAVILION AT ARCHIBUILT CONFERENCE 2022….Commends AFP Product Quality
The Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, GCON, was at the Archibuilt Expo 2022, the annual conference organized by the Nigerian Institute of Architects.
The Vice President, during the Conference, spoke on the goals of the National Infrastructure Plan. He highlighted the exponential population growth in Nigeria and Abuja. The implication according to Professor Osinbajo is that the necessity for sustainable and innovative infrastructural planning is a ‘categorical imperative.’ Capital expenditure and investment in roads, rails, energy pipelines and industry in general both by the public and private sector has become even much more compelling than ever before.
According to the Vice President, the goal of the administration’s National Infrastructure Plan is to grow the country’s infrastructure stock by at least 70%, which he said is the global best practice. Professor Osinbajo called on the Nigerian Institute of Architects to collaborate with other professionals in the built environment to boost Nigeria’s infrastructure stock for national development.
The Vice President said, the goal of the administration’s National Infrastructure Plan is to grow the country’s infrastructure stock by at least 70%, which he said is the global best practice. Professor Osinbajo called on the Nigerian Institute of Architects to collaborate with other professionals in the built environment to boost Nigeria’s infrastructure stock for national development.
The General Manager of Julius Berger AFP, Mr Oliver Cohnen who led the company’s team to the conference also received the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, GCON, to the Julius Berger AFP exhibition pavilion at the venue of the event. The Vice President commended APF’s product quality and enjoined AFP to keep up its great product quality and service. Oliver Cohnen thanked the Vice President for his gracious visit and for his kind and encouraging words to AFP.
Other important dignitaries that graced the conference and exhibition included the Honourable Minister of Finance, Budget and Planning, Hajiya Zainab Ahmed, and her husband, Architect Shamsudeen, and the Honourable Minister for Water Resources. The National Coordinator of Nigeria’s Social Investment Programme, Dr. Umar B. Bindir, Professor Uche Uwaleke an exponent of the use of Infrastructure Bonds for infrastructural development, the President of the Sierra Leonean Institute of Architects as well as the current and past presidents of the NIA were in attendance at the event which held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adu Centre Abuja.
Other AFP officials at the conference included the Commercial Manager of AFP, Norbert Kossmann, APublic Relations Officer, Alhaji Kaita Ahmed, Comrade Jamiu Akinola, Sales Consultants Sandra Kyaan and Khadija Usman, and AFP Procurement Manager , Jan Baumgaertener
Archibuilt is a forum that provides a platform for organizers and participants alike a platform for direct communication and value exchange between architects, consultants, contractors, developers, product and other service providers in the built environment. According to the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), “Archibuilt is an annual exhibition and forum organized to bring to the fore trends, technologies, systems, and policy issues that impact the building industry’s intervention and response to everyday living.” Sourcing of Products and services at the expo is a major reason attendees go for the Archibuilt Conference and Exhibition every year. Attendees go the conference and exhibition to evaluate products and services and develop business relationships with the built environment manufacturers.
JULIUS BERGER WINS 7TH CONSECUTIVE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR LEADERSHIP AWARD AT #IAMBRANDNIGERIA’S TOP 50 BRANDS 2022
The Country’s practically most reliable and innovative engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, has robustly for the 7th consecutive time won top rating as “Nigeria’s Most Valuable Brand in the Building and Construction Services Category” at the Top 50 Brands Nigeria Awards.
At a ceremony to unveil the Top 50 business brands in Nigeria last week in Lagos, the highly acclaimed construction experts, again retained its leadership position in Nigeria’s engineering construction sector in recognition of its outstanding and ever trustworthy quality, brilliant innovativeness and operational best international standards and practice in the building and construction industry for the year 2022.
At the eagerly anticipated annual national brands evaluation event anchored in Lagos, where who is who in the various industrial sectors are assessed and named with ranking awards, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc emerged the winner in the building and construction sector with a Brand Strength Measurement, BSM, of 66.5, notching up an additional 6 points to strongly beat and best its own previous brand performance record of 60.5 points at the previous 2021 ratings.
The Chief Executive Officer of Top Brands Nigeria, Taiwo Oluboyede in his opening remarks at the landmark event congratulated Julius Berger Nigeria Plc and other sectoral winners declaring that, “…today, these are the Best Brands in Nigeria”.
According to Mr. Taiwo Oluboyede, the CEO of Top Brands Nigeria, the drivers of the #TOP50BRANDSNIGERIA awards, the Brand Strength Measurement (BSM) ratings of nominated companies are determined by their consistency of corporate mission, professional resilience, individual Brand Identity, Client Retention, Quality Elements, Market Category Leadership as well as a brand’s Diversification activities and Productivity. Other BSM assessment considerations include Innovation, National Spread, Online Engagement and a brand’s Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Consciousness and engagement. According to Taiwo Oluboyede, “…This becomes the objective measurement and merit-driven outcome of the annual brand research endeavour, where we evaluate a brand’s ability to deliver on its promise to its customers or clients who consume its products and services from the customers’ or consumers’ point of view….”
Oluboyede speaking from the citation of Julius Berger from the BrandNigeria 2022 Manual, further 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. He said 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, the Top Brands Nigeria CEO 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”.
Congratulating Julius Berger at the unveiling of the 2022 awards in Lagos, Taiwo Oluboyede reiterated that“…the engineering construction leader is a company seized of a progressive and open-minded corporate culture constantly progressively driven by a development and growth-oriented Board and executive management. The company empirically never stands still in its efforts to drive both the Organization and its clients’ developments forward to its sworn allegiance to good success”.
Julius Berger at this year’s event was also again positively cited and commended by Taiwo Oluboyede for its consistent business culture of punctuality and capacity to arrive on schedule and well prepared for maximum productivity in all of its projects and operational tasks with ready clients.
It would be recalled that the Executive Director of Administration of Julius Berger, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi, earlier told news correspondents during one of the company’s media parley events that: “…In Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, punctuality is the soul of business and, as a propelling operational policy, we seriously work to arrive at every milestone and assignment as planned. That corporate culture proudly and productively underpins our company’s reliability to our clients in every project. That is our proud historical legacy; a tenacity and consistency of purpose that has made us to consistently win the highly coveted construction sector leadership award…” Bayi added that, “…we promise to maintain our matchless productive momentum and remain the trusted and preferred partner when project timelines and success matter most to the client. That is Julius Berger’s lasting and reliable promise.”
With regard to the 2022 construction sector leadership award to Julius Berger, Alhaji Bayi who had to give his remarks on the telephone from offshore where he was for official assignment said: “…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 define the ratings, keeping the nominations for the awards only merit-driven”.
The CEO of BrandNigeria, Taiwo Oluboyede, had earlier noted that since the advent of Julius Berger in Nigeria for the construction of Eko Bridge in Lagos in 1965, the engineering construction company has historically and decisively stood strong as a preferred partner for project success anywhere there is an engineering challenge in the country
Besides Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, other winners at the 2022 BRANDNIGERIA TOP50BRANDS Award event included the Dangote Group, Globacom, Lafarge, MTN, Oando, FCMB, Access Bank, Coco-Cola, Zenith Bank, First Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank, UBA Plc, Nestle, Cadbury, BUA Group, Fidelity Bank, Total energies, Guinness, Airtel, Nigeria Breweries, Toyota, P&G, Channels Television, Samsung, Multichoice, etc.
PRESIDENT BUHARI IN CHAD, ASKS FOR PATHWAY TO ENDURING DEMOCRACY
President Muhammadu Buhari, who is the current Chairman of the Lake Chad Basin Countries, LCBC, Monday joined the celebrations of the people of Republic of Chad in inaugurating their interim administration to lead the country to elections and the formation of a democratic government.
At a bilateral meeting held by the two leaders, shortly before the inauguration of General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno as the Head of the Transition Government and Head of State to oversee the transition process, President Buhari congratulated the country’s leader on behalf of the LCBC for earning the trust of the majority of Chadians to head the transition process to full fruition.
The President equally congratulated the participants of the just-concluded Inclusive National Dialogue for the patriotism they demonstrated in reclaiming their country from the path of instability and repositioning it for sustainable governance and development.
President Buhari expressed hope that the event will, “hopefully bring to closure, the painful phase of the Chadian political history which led to the sad passage of one of Chad’s most illustrious sons, late Marshal Idriss Deby itno.”
President Buhari extolled the Chadian state’s responsible engagement within the sub-region and beyond, citing the country’s “very active involvement in the collective activities for peace within the LCBC and MNJTF, the Sahel and in the reactivation of her relationship with Sudan,” which he said were exemplary.
The President expressed his hope and that of the LCBC, which he chairs, that “today’s event will usher in another period of peace and stability within Chad and our sub-region in order to build on the gains of previous efforts.”
President Buhari urged all stakeholders in the Chadian political process to work towards consolidating and re-establishing a resolute, resilient and sustainable democracy for the benefit of the good people of Chad.
At the ceremony, the Head of the Transition Government, thanked President Buhari for the warmth and friendliness he had demonstrated towards the country and sub-region, especially in ensuring peace and stability.
Itno commended the Chairman of the LCBC for historic interventions in upholding the interest of the Chad Basin, and Africa, assuring that President Buhari’s leadership had been impactful.
He promised to put in place a transition process that would reflect the will of the people, while focusing on ameliorating poverty through provision of quality education, better health facilities and sustainable infrastructure.
President Buhari returned to Abuja after the ceremony in N’Djamena.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 10, 2022
2023: TRUE FEDERALISM WILL THRIVE UNDER TINUBU’S PRESIDENCY – GOV AKEREDOLU
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has identified true federalism as one of the strong pillars that can be used to build a prosperous nation.
Governor Akeredolu said true federalism is important in a diverse nation like Nigeria, adding that it will properly address the fundamentals of nationhood.
The Governor made this known on Sunday evening while speaking on the topic, “Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Business of Nation Building”, during a Twitter Space session.
He assured Nigerians that the APC Presidential Candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will bring a new vista into governance and ensure that true federalism thrives if voted into power.
Governor Akeredolu said the APC Candidate understands the serious issues affecting the wellbeing of the country.
“If voted into government, Nigerians will see that we have someone in place who had gone through democratic tutelage. He has been Governor. He led a party.
“Asiwaju has deep knowledge about the problems of this nation. He has been part of the struggle to ensure that democracy is enthroned and that a true federal system runs in the country,” Arakunrin Akeredolu said.
The Governor recalled that Asiwaju Tinubu was part of the founders of NADECO and participated in the struggle that led to the return of civil democratic rule in the fourth Republic.
He said: “Tinubu’s contributions in the NADECO struggle can not be denied. As you know, when the 1993 presidential election was held, MKO Abiola was deemed to have won that election. But the military junta canceled the election and set up an interim government.
“Asiwaju Tinubu and few others felt they weren’t going to take it. They formed the NADECO and fought the military. They stood on June 12. Then the whole country conceded that the next President must be from the Southwest. That is why in 1999, only former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Chief Olu Falae ran for the election.
“You can not deny Asiwaju his role. He ran away from the county and set up the Radio-Kudirat. Those were the struggles we had before the forth republic came up.”
On the endorsement of Peter Obi by the Pan Yoruba Socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, the Governor declared that Afenifere doesn’t speak for the Yoruba people.
Arakunrin Akeredolu noted that Afenifere is divided in respect of the purported endorsement and emphasised that the group’s views do not represent the stance of the Yoruba people.
Governor Akeredolu said Asiwaju Tinubu has always remained a progressive despite the prevalence of political prostitution in the country.
“Prostitution in politics is very common. When you have people who stick to their guns and stay in their parties, you must respect them. It is not common. We have seen a situation where governors left their parties and go to other parties. For me, it is integrity. Asiwaju has shown integrity. Asiwaju’s form of politics has taught us that political prostitution is unnecessary.”he stressed.
Governor Akeredolu said Asiwaju Tinubu made efforts to build Lagos State when he was governor of the state, adding that the APC presidential standard bearer was able to make Lagos State a country within the Country.
He noted that Asiwaju Tinubu promoted national unity by appointing people from different ethnic backgrounds across the country into his government.
“Asiwaju was able to make Lagos a country within country. As you know, Asiwaju was in the saddle for eight years in Lagos. And you will find out that because of Lagos peculiarities, people from virtually all parts of the country were part of his government.
“Asiwaju Tinubu assembled the best brains for the job and these people moved from Lagos to become leaders in their respective states. Aregbesola was there as a commissioner and went from there to become governor in Osun State.
“Everybody has its own part to play. Today, we have people who have been senators in Lagos and gone back to their states to contest. Lagos can be described as a mini Nigeria. An Hausa man can thrive in Lagos. An Igbo man thrives in Lagos.
“Aliko Dangote lives in Lagos and his business is in Lagos and he’s thriving. So many other people thrive in Lagos. Our brothers from the East own the whole of Alaba. They have representatives in the National Assembly and Lagos State Assembly . You must give credit to Asiwaju for laying the foundation for such things to thrive in Lagos,” Governor Akeredolu said.
The Governor expressed confidence that the APC Presidential candidate would make state police happen in the country.
He said: “I strongly believe that the Presidency of Tinubu will give chance for State Police. He is lucky. Today, all governors in the 36 states of the federation support creation of state police. That should be a centre piece of his campaign.
“There must be restructuring and Asiwaju is one President that will come and restructure the country in accordance with the APC constitution. I look up to him as a leader who would say come 2023, a state police would happen.
Expressing his view on the Muslim/Muslim ticket, Governor Akeredolu said what is important to the country is capacity and knowledge, not religion and ethnicity.
“There are lots of discussions about the Muslim/Muslim ticket. And some of us have tried to explain to our people. The ticket itself can not be the issue. The main issue is who will serve the country. When you talk about the issue of ticket, you also want to talk about the issue of inclusivism. Should the presidency go back to the north? No!
“And what are we left with? We are left with an Obi and Asiwaju. Then you will weigh the two. Some of us have made a decision about Asiwaju. And the decision is based on what he has to offer.
“When put together on a scale, Tinubu weighs higher. We look at intellect, experience and what we stand to gain from his presidency. Capacity and knowledge are different from religion and ethnicity. We have always voted for experience and capacity.
“We have said it clearly. President must come to the South. It has come to us now to make a choice. In making the choice, we must think about capacity and competence. And the scale tilts towards Asiwaju Tinubu,” He stressed.
The Governor further assured that Asiwaju Tinubu will promote youth inclusion in his government, adding that young Nigerians will have enough participation in the government.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
October 10, 2022.
Monday, October 10, 2023
PRESS RELEASE BY THE TINUBU/SHETTIMA CAMPAIGN COUNCIL:
PDP PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN FLAG-OFF IN UYO: A DISASTER FORETOLD
The launch of PDP’s presidential campaign today in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, was, as expected, a disaster waiting to happen. Once again, the delinquent PDP continued to treat the now discerning Nigerian public with disdain and disrespect.
Aside from the obscenity of a poorly-scripted farce misnamed a flag-off, Nigerians suffered today additional trauma of having to witness a show of shame, listening to a litany of falsehoods spewed out at the gathering by failed, expired and rejected politicians. Speaker after speaker kept echoing a farrago of incomprehensible political jargons that left most Nigerians wondering whether it was a circus.
For example, if not the loss of the sense of shame, what else could have goaded PDP’s now discredited “sit tight” National Chairman, Iyorchia Ayu, to be audacious enough to stand on a podium today in Uyo and make any promise to Nigerians? Has he been able to fulfill the promise he made to himself and his party members to step down from office should a Northerner emerge as the presidential candidate at their party primaries? How can a party that cannot unite itself promise to unite Nigeria? How can a party that brazenly violates its own constitution on zoning be trusted to obey the constitution of Nigeria if again trusted with power?
When you have a flag-off campaign that is shunned by the National Vice-Chairmen of the South-South, South-West, and five sitting Governors out of thirteen, that is a definitive and resounding red-flag that Nigerians should not vote the Presidential candidate of the PDP in this coming election. If the people’s representatives at the state levels are so unanimouly against their party’s candidate that they would shun his campaign launch, then indeed, we would say to Nigerians, “A word is enough for the wise”.
Fortunately, to the benefit of Nigerians, there remains a few good men within PDP. These honourable men belonging to the party’s NWC, deemed it right to return hundreds of millions of Naira allegedly transferred into their individual bank accounts as “hush money” to suppress the investigation of the scandal of humongous financial misappropriation levelled against their National Chairman.
It is quite obvious to Nigerians that the PDP is a house that is divided against itself and it sure won’t stand. At their presidential campaign flag-off in Uyo today, the absence of many of the PDP State Governors tells a story to Nigerians that no amount of political jamboree can whitewash PDP’s cracked walls. It tells a story of a budding autocratic leadership, nourished by impunity, which now fans the flame of divisions and absolute disrespect for laid down rules and regulation.
Not much should, therefore, be expected from such a gathering. With the obvious inability of its Presidential Candidate to assuage frayed nerves of disaffected persons within their ranks, how will it be possible for such a person to unite people within such a diverse landscape as Nigeria? You definitely cannot give what you don’t have.
After being voted out of power in 2015 ignominiously, Nigerians had hoped that the PDP would, by now, be contrite as a party. Just as many had expected it would be able to muster the organisational acumen to play a formidable opposition Party, having been at the helm of running the affairs of our dear nation for 16 years prior to its disgraceful fall in 2015.
Alas, such expectations now seem far-fetched. Rather than seize every opportunity to redeemed its battered image, PDP has continued on its free fall, much the same way it bungled the running of the affairs of our country for 16 good years in an orgy of incompetence, unabated corruption and impunity.
The PDP and its self-conceited leadership failed woefully to put its house in order before hitting the streets to ask for the votes of Nigerians and, ironically, telling Nigerians they are on a rescue mission. Till date, their National Secretariat remains uncompleted, whilst the APC, in its relatively shorter existence, now has a permanent headquarters.
Our democracy is young. This Fourth Republic is barely 24 years old. But then, a 24 years old man would be said to be coming of age. At this time, Nigerians are no longer interested in a trial-and-error leadership. Those who have not been proven to be “good enough” leaders should have no access to our highest office. If nothing else speaks to the disaster an Abubakar Atiku presidency will be, this crisis within the PDP does so eloquently.
It is high time Nigerians called out the PDP for their spurious promises and the obnoxious behaviour of their helmsmen. It is highly unfortunate that some of the most honorable of their leaders are being sacrificed on the altar of the greed of a few persons and their inordinate ambition.
Festus Keyamo, SAN, FCIArb(UK)
*Director of Public Affairs and Chief Spokesperson, Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council.
* Minister of State, Labour and Employment,
Federal Republic of Nigeria
PRESS STATEMENT
Yakubu Dogara and his band of so-called APC Christian leaders are impostors
Former Speaker of House of Representatives, Mr. Yakubu Dogara has apparently lost his mind since he could not realise his self-imposed ambition to be on the presidential ticket of All Progressives Congress. On account of this he has certainly become a reprobate and demagogue, delivering hate speeches and whipping up emotions, with the aim of setting our country ablaze.
The Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign Council is therefore not surprised by media reports about a meeting of some so-called Northern Christian leaders, who claimed to be members of our All Progressives Congress that was championed by Dogara and his ilks.
The claim was totally fraudulent.
Yakubu Dogara, the peripatetic and politically unstable politician who organised the meeting left our party officially and unceremoniously weeks ago. And those who attended the meeting were representing themselves, their selfish agenda, not Northern Christians.
Before then, the former speaker had spearheaded a campaign of vitriol and hate against our party, using religion as camouflage, after he lost the vice-presidential candidacy to a better qualified Senator Kashim Shettima.
A careful reading of the people who attended the unholy meeting he called also showed that they were all PDP members, masquerading as APC members.
Among the politicians at the unholy consultative meeting were Mukhar Shagari, Boni Haruna, Abdulfattah Ahmed; Damishi Sango; Senator Idris Ahmed Umar; and two former deputy governors of Kogi State, Yomi Awoniyi and Simon Achuba. They are all PDP members working for the presidential ambition of Atiku Abubakar.
We were not surprised by the resolutions adopted. Our surprise was that the media failed to read through their smokescreen.
The APC PCC wondered how the assembly of strange bedfellows hoped to foster unity and cohesion in our country, when their candidate represents the antithesis of the goal, having emerged the greatest divider of our polity, between the north and south.
All Nigerians are aware that Atiku’s emergence as the PDP presidential candidate grossly violated a power rotation code between the north and the south. His insistence on snatching and retaining what righly belongs to another political region has triggered a crisis within his party, making him run from Port Harcourt to London to mend fences.
We want to assure Dogara and his co-travellers fanning hate campaign against our Presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his running mate, that they will fail spectacularly at the polls.
From the engagements our leaders have had with men of all faiths, bigotry will not win next February election. What will prevail are the track records of our candidates and the solution-driven and all-inclusive progressive programmes the candidates offer Nigerians.
Asiwaju Tinubu and Senator Shettima are going into this campaign with clear objectives to engage Nigerians across the socio-economic brackets on policy actions that will make their lives better. Our candidates will not exploit our country’s fault lines to win election and sell religion as Kool Aid.
Bayo Onanuga
Director, Media & Publicity
Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign Council
Okowa mourns Ex-LG Chairman, Jonathan Eghweree
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta and Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has commiserated with the Eghweree family and people of Oghara over the passing of former Chairman of Ethiope West Local Government Area, Mr Jonathan Eghweree.
The late Eghweree was the first Executive Chairman of Ethiope West Local Government Area between 1991 and 1993, after its creation from the Old Ethiope Local Government Area.
Until his passing, he was a member of Delta State Scholarship Board, and a chieftain of the PDP in Delta.
In the condolence message by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, Okowa expressed sadness over the incident, saying that it was a big loss to the deceased’s family, the PDP and Oghara people.
According to him, the passing of the PDP chieftain is a big blow to our party, his family, Oghara community and Ethiope West, considering his immense contributions to the party’s fortunes in the state.
The governor described the late Eghweree as a “fine gentleman”, who contributed to the growth and development of his community and local government area, and stated that he would be greatly missed by his political associates and others close to him.
He said: “On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn the passing of an astute politician and a gentleman of amiable personality.
“Jonathan Eghweree was a renowned party leader, a man of peace who was passionate about the development of his people of Oghara and Ethiope West in general.
“The news of his death was shocking and a great loss because he was a valued asset to PDP in Delta and had distinguished himself in the service of the party and his people.
“His huge contributions to our party’s victories in several elections in Oghara and Ethiope West remains laudable and highly commendable.”
Okowa prayed to God to accept the deceased’s soul and grant fortitude to the family and friends to bear his exit.
How APC can win 2023 polls, by Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari has provided insights into how the ruling All Progressives Party (APC) can continue its winning streak in 2023.
He said the party must take advantage of the women population and spread campaigns to the most remotest parts of the country.
He spoke at the inauguration of the Tinubu-Shettima Women Presidential Campaign Team, held at the Old Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The President, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, also tasked the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, and the Minister of Women Affairs to work with the Office of the First Lady to come up with sets of legislations that can be put before the National Assembly to make laws to ensure women receive just recognition for their contributions in society.
Speaking on how the APC could win the presidential and other elections next year, Buhari called the attention of the audience, including the National Chairman, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, and other leaders of the party, to the potentials of the women voters, highlighting the sheer number of votes they contributed in the last two elections, charging the party to court the support of the female voters.
“Considering the strategic role women have played in APC victories, we call on you once again to begin organizing and mobilizing vigorously the electorate at all levels for APC victory at the 2023 polls through the committee in an inclusive and cooperative manner.
“The inauguration of APC Women Presidential Campaign Committee today is the most crucial component of the 2023 campaign. To this end, I call on all members of this committee to take up this great responsibility as a testament of your selfless service to the APC.
“I strongly believe that this committee will take the APC to greater heights by developing and implementing a collective and inclusive party’s strategy to ensure APC victory in the 2023 election because there is no alternative to our victory.
“In the 2015 general elections, about 3.6 million housewives voted in the presidential election. And this figure ranks third next to about 4.4 million students in the 2019 general elections. Women accounted for 47 percent, almost 40 million of the 84 million registered voters throughout the nation.
“We must continuously co-opt and make significant in-road into these demographic and voting segments.
“The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recently made a projection that Nigeria’s voting population could be as much as 95 million for the 2023 general elections. For statisticians in the room, you can imagine what that means in terms of potential votes that women could bring to the table.
“Counting today, we are left with approximately 137 days before the Presidential and National Assembly elections, which is scheduled for the 25th of February, 2023. Out of the 36 states of the federation, 30 states will be holding their gubernatorial elections on the 11th of March. The mission that lays ahead of the committee is very clear and time is not on your side,” he said.
The President went further to remind the campaign council and other party functionaries to also work hard to reach the inner recesses of the country in canvassing for votes, warning that the real work in getting votes is not in Abuja, but in the over 8,000 wards across the country.
“As this launch is being hosted in Abuja, we must remember that the real war lies in far flung places away from Abuja. The task ahead lies in over 8000 wards and 774 local governments across the country, where party faithful will have to make a case before fellow citizens on our party’s candidate articulating the vision and the programme for the country.
“The campaign, therefore, should resist the temptation for it to be turned into an Abuja centric activity but establish the connection between the voting public and our presidential candidate, and for other candidates for offices throughout Nigeria, that should be the ultimate objective”, he said.
Buhari noted that women had been the most supportive groups to his administration and throughout his political journey, calling on women of the party to extend same commitment they had shown him all along to the flag bearer of the party and his team.
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES ABIKE DABIRI-EREWA AT 60
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, on the occasion of her 60 years birthday.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the former Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) celebrated broadcaster and three-term federal lawmaker, who clocks 60 on Monday, October 10, has emblazoned her name on the international stage as a respected legislator, lover of truth, advocate of social justice and a loud voice of the voiceless.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said the former Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora is a good ambassador of Lagos State, who has used her experience and position to contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria in different sectors.
He said: “On behalf of my family, the good people of Lagos State, leaders and members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), I heartily congratulate the Chairman/CEO of Nigerian Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, on the occasion of her Diamond Jubilee.
“Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, before venturing into politics in 2006 was a celebrated broadcaster, who worked for the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) for 15 years, anchoring the weekly NTA News line programme and taking a particular interest in poverty and social justice issues.
“As a lawmaker, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency between 2003 and 2015, she contributed immensely to legislative business during her 12 years in the House of Representatives. She served as the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Publicity, and later Chairman of the House Committee on Diaspora Affairs.
“She was never a ‘sleeping lawmaker’ as she sponsored significant bills that were passed by Parliament, among which were the Freedom of Information Bill, Nigerian Diaspora Commission Bill and a Bill to repeal the Nigerian Press Council Bill and replace it with the Nigerian Press and Journalism Council Bill.
“Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa as the Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora and now Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, has been the voice of Nigerians in the Diaspora, championing and working for their interests in a foreign country.
“As you celebrate your 60th birthday, I pray that God will continue to preserve and grant you good health to enable you to render more service to humanity, Nigeria and our beloved state, Lagos.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
09 OCTOBER 2022
October 9, 2022
Press Statement
Eid-el Maulud: PDP Felicitates with Nigerians, Urges Faith, Unity, Tolerance
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) felicitates with Nigerians, especially the Muslim Ummah on the celebration of Eid-el Maulud, the birth of Holy Prophet Mohammed (SAW), urging them to use the occasion to strengthen their faith in God as well as the bond of unity among one another.
Indeed, the Eid-el Maulud offers us as a people and humanity the divine reassurance of the mercies, compassion and provision of the Almighty Allah as well as divine call to put our trust in His unending love towards mankind.
The PDP therefore urges Nigerians to use the occasion of the Eid-el Maulud to end all forms of divisiveness, acrimony, strife and sense of hopelessness and embrace a new beginning by rekindling the virtues of love, kindness, forgiveness, tolerance, peaceful co-existence and charity towards the poor in line with the life and teachings of the Holy Prophet.
Our Party charges Nigerians to use the occasion to pray for divine intervention in the country especially as the nation prepares for the 2023 general elections. The PDP also calls on those behind the mindless killings, banditry and other forms of violence to use the occasion to turn a new leaf and end their acts of hostility against humanity.
The PDP felicitates with Nigerians and wishes them a happy Eid-el Maulud celebration.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PRESS RELEASE
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, on the occasion of her 60 years birthday.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the former Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) celebrated broadcaster and three-term federal lawmaker, who clocks 60 on Monday, October 10, has emblazoned her name on the international stage as a respected legislator, lover of truth, advocate of social justice and a loud voice of the voiceless.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said the former Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora is a good ambassador of Lagos State, who has used her experience and position to contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria in different sectors.
He said: “On behalf of my family, the good people of Lagos State, leaders and members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), I heartily congratulate the Chairman/CEO of Nigerian Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, on the occasion of her Diamond Jubilee.
“Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, before venturing into politics in 2006 was a celebrated broadcaster, who worked for the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) for 15 years, anchoring the weekly NTA News line programme and taking a particular interest in poverty and social justice issues.
“As a lawmaker, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency between 2003 and 2015, she contributed immensely to legislative business during her 12 years in the House of Representatives. She served as the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Publicity, and later Chairman of the House Committee on Diaspora Affairs.
“She was never a ‘sleeping lawmaker’ as she sponsored significant bills that were passed by Parliament, among which were the Freedom of Information Bill, Nigerian Diaspora Commission Bill and a Bill to repeal the Nigerian Press Council Bill and replace it with the Nigerian Press and Journalism Council Bill.
“Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa as the Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora and now Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, has been the voice of Nigerians in the Diaspora, championing and working for their interests in a foreign country.
“As you celebrate your 60th birthday, I pray that God will continue to preserve and grant you good health to enable you to render more service to humanity, Nigeria and our beloved state, Lagos.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
09 OCTOBER 2022
October 9, 2022
Press Statement
Eid-el Maulud: PDP Felicitates with Nigerians, Urges Faith, Unity, Tolerance
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) felicitates with Nigerians, especially the Muslim Ummah on the celebration of Eid-el Maulud, the birth of Holy Prophet Mohammed (SAW), urging them to use the occasion to strengthen their faith in God as well as the bond of unity among one another.
Indeed, the Eid-el Maulud offers us as a people and humanity the divine reassurance of the mercies, compassion and provision of the Almighty Allah as well as divine call to put our trust in His unending love towards mankind.
The PDP therefore urges Nigerians to use the occasion of the Eid-el Maulud to end all forms of divisiveness, acrimony, strife and sense of hopelessness and embrace a new beginning by rekindling the virtues of love, kindness, forgiveness, tolerance, peaceful co-existence and charity towards the poor in line with the life and teachings of the Holy Prophet.
Our Party charges Nigerians to use the occasion to pray for divine intervention in the country especially as the nation prepares for the 2023 general elections. The PDP also calls on those behind the mindless killings, banditry and other forms of violence to use the occasion to turn a new leaf and end their acts of hostility against humanity.
The PDP felicitates with Nigerians and wishes them a happy Eid-el Maulud celebration.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
Legal Practitioner, Corporate & Property Consultants
No 9, Effurun / Sapele Road
Opposite High Court Junction,
Effurun .
TEL: 08035759764
Email: luckyegbuyi@ gmail.com
Our Ref: LOE/IGP/COM/BREA/OKUMAGBA/1/22 Your Ref……………
THE INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE,
NIGERIAN POLICE FORCE
EDET LEWIS HOUSE
ABUJA.
Sir.
RE: ATTEMPT / EFFORTS TO CAUSE COMMUNAL WAR, FANNING EMBERS OF COMMUNAL DISPUTE, CONDUCT LIKELY TO CAUSE BREACH OF PEACE AND CRIMINAL DEFAMATION OF CHARACTERS OF OUR CLIENT; OLODI, OKI AND IGHOGBADU FAMILIES OF WARRI IN THE OKERE – URHOBO KINGDOM OF DELTA STATE, ALL COMMITTED BY MR. LOUIS OKUMAGBA – A CALL TO INVESTIGATE THE ALLEGATION HEREIN
We are counsel to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo Kingdom, herein called our Clients.
The Olodi , Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri, make up the popular Okumagba family of Warri , Okere- Urhobo kingdom.
Our clients are the owners of all the land in the entire Okere-Urhobo kingdom Warri.
In 1974/76, the then government of Mid-Western Nigeria acquired a part or portion of our Client’s land for public purpose.
In 2017, the Delta State government gave part of this acquired land to Messrs. Seriviri Nig. Ltd. for the purpose of partnership (Leisure Park) with the state government, covered by a certificate of Occupancy. Considering the size of the land given to Seriviri Nig. Ltd, for the partnership, it could not utilize the entire land. So it entered into agreement with our Clients family, wherein, it released 30 plots thereof back to the family – our clients
Certain Mr. Louis Okumagba who is the black sheep of the family started to foment trouble, disturbing and threatening Seriviri Nig. Ltd, with thuggery and dangerous weapons which led to his arrest in 2019 to the Police Force Head Quarters, Abuja. After being granted bail by the police, the suspect (Mr. Louis Okumagba) rushed to file a fundamental Human Right action against the Police, at the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri. That action stalled the prosecution of the suspect (Mr. Louis) by the Police.
We wish to inform you that suit, of the suspect against the Police, has been dismissed by the Delta State High Court, Sitting in Warri, with a specific order of the Court directing the police to arrest and prosecute the suspect (Mr Louis Okumagba). A copy of the enrolled order is herein annexed as annexure as Annexure A.
While the Police were looking for the suspect for arrest and prosecution as directed by the Court, the same suspect went to social media (Opera news) to declare that “there will be looming danger of war/crisis between the Itsekiri and Urhobos”, thereby inciting, promoting and instigating communal war between the two peaceful co-existing communities of Itsekiri and Urhobo.
This incitement has created several apprehension in the minds of locals, which apprehension has affected the hitherto peace that reigned and pervaded the two communities.
Furthermore, the suspect posted on the same social media that some named members of our Clients namely; Chief Gideon Okumagba, Stanley Oki, Chief Victor Okumagba, Engr. Prince Ojuvwu Okumagba and others, sent assassins to his house to kill him, but that he escaped by the whiskers. He confirmed that he had one on one confrontation with the assassins, who confirmed the named members of our Clients above, as the people who commissioned them to eliminate him.
Our Clients are bunch of responsible families known throughout Nigeria for their peaceful disposition. The named individuals are distinguished and respected members of the Okumagba family and the Nigeria Society.
Our Client therefore takes the allegation of hiring of assassins by its members very serious, especially in this era of Security challenges in the country.
It is against the background of the foregoing that we have the instruction of our Clients to petition you to use your good office to investigate these allegations against the suspect, so as to prevent a monumental communal war/crisis between Itsekiris and the Urhobos of Okere Urhobo Kingdom. God forbid a repetition of what happened in 1997/98 in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom.
So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive.
We therefore urge you to use your good offices to investigate these allegations of our Client and cause anyone found culpable to be brought to book.
We assure you of our clients co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition.
Yours faithfully
L.O. EGBOYI ESQ
CC;
The Head:
Olodi, Oki and Ighogbudu families,
Of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, Warri
Okere-Urhobo royal families knock Louis Okumagba over Uduaghan, land comments
Key families in Okere-Urhobo on Monday took steps to foil the divisive and land grabbing plan of one Louis Okumagba.
They also urged the good people of Delta State and the general public to completely discountenance the false publication by Louis Okumagba.
‘’Louis Okumagba does not represent the interests of the families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu of Okere-Urhobo’’
Heads and members of the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo of Warri South spoke on prejudices of some local and foreign publishers on the land opposite Don Domingo College, Warri Monday morning.
Chief Gideon Okumagba, a representative of the three families, read the statement of the royal families aloud to newsmen.
The families accused Louis Okumagba of distortion and inciting fear in Delta State.
‘’The families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu collectively owned landed properties in Warri’’
The Okere-Urhobo leaders said the land was acquired by the defunct Bendel State Government.
‘’The families are represented by Heads of the Kindred family and are the original owners of the land until it was acquired by the then Bendel State Government. The families currently have their administrative office at No 60 Okumagba Avenue Warri where they meet frequently to deal with issues. on family lands and other related family matters’’
They offered an itemized and caustic indictment of Louis Okumagba’s behavior in Warri South.
‘’As one of the elders in the family, specifically as related to the false claims by Louis Okumagba, I am well abreast of the issues raised in that publication. The good people of Warri are not in any war or in a battle over the landed property opposite Don Domingo College, Warri, and it is very shameful that the said Louis is trying to incite tribal/ethnic battle in that publication’’.
They promised to file a libel suit against individuals and organizations publishing Louis Okumagba’s false narrative.
‘’It is not true that the Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, used officials of the Delta State Government to intimidate and arrest Louis Okumagba. To be candid, it was Chief Gideon Okumagba that reported his criminal extortion of money from developers to the Police Area Commander Office in Warri’’.
The statement emphasized how the matter was dragged to the office of the Inspector General of Police Abuja.
‘’While the case was being deliberated on in Abuja, Louis Okumagba jumped bail and hurriedly filed a fundamental Human Rights Application against me, the Inspector General of Police and Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan at Warri High Court just to shield himself from being prosecuted for his criminal act. I equally filed a Counter application in that case and at the end the Judgment was resolved in my favour while his Fundamental Human Rights Application was dismissed with cost. Louis has been a fugitive. Since that judgment, he has not been seen within Warri’’.
Particularly, the families accused Louis Okumagba of trying to sow discord amongst Deltans through falsehood.
‘’Louis Okumagba claimed that he has been in the forefront of the land in dispute is false and misrepresentation of facts. And the alleged grabbing of over 30 hectares of land by the Okowa Government led by High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is equally false. The land was acquired by the then Bendel state for public purposes. The Delta State government has since done the needful by releasing/returning parts of the land to the Olodi, Oki and lghogbadu families who are the rightful owners. 4.6 hectares of land was released to the family on the 26 day of June 1988 and another part of the unused land was released to the Olodi,. Oki and 1ghogbadu families on the 14 of January 2000. Also, the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families have an agreement with the Government of Delta State over the remaining parts of the land’’
The families told news men there was zero evidence for Louis Okumagba claims of land grabbing.
‘To be more specific, the remaining portion of the land was released to Seriviri Nigeria Limited wherein Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is one of the directors of that company and the said company also have an agreement with the families and half of the land was released to the families. Indeed, the three families benefited from the land including Louis Okumagba ’’.
They scolded Louis Okumagba for rendering a real disservice.
‘’There was never any consultation by Louis Okumagba with the well-known families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu before that Publication was made by him. It’s a futile attempt to incite the Urhobo and Itsekiri into a needless bickering. There is no dispute as far as the land in this narrative is concerned. The said Louis should avail himself to enable the police conclude their investigation in the crime levied against him. The land in question belongs to the Olodi, Oki and lghogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo and he should stop spreading false claims and division among the families and tribes in Delta State. If there are disputes in any land owned by these families, it is the heads and members of the family who will collectively decide to institute an action in court’’,
Last week, the families condemned the role of Chief Louis Okumagba in the 30 plots released to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State.
They described it as a negative development and a minus for peace and development in Delta State.
In a letter titled: ‘’Attempt / efforts to cause communal war, fanning embers of communal dispute, conduct likely to cause breach of peace and criminal defamation of characters of our clients; Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State, all committed by Mr. Louis Okumagba – a call to investigate the allegation herein, the families urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good office to investigate allegations against Louis Okumagba, so as to prevent a monumental communal war/crisis between Itsekiri and the Urhobo of Okere Urhobo Kingdom.
’’God forbid a repetition of what happened in 1997/98 in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom’’
Counsel to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo Kingdom, L O. Egboyi & CO said in the 1974/76, the then government acquired a part or portion of our client’s land for public purpose.
‘’In 2017, the Delta State government gave part of this acquired land to Messrs. Seriviri Nig. Ltd. for the purpose of partnership (Leisure Park) with the state government, covered by a certificate of Occupancy. Considering the size of the land given to Seriviri Nig. Ltd, for the partnership, it could not utilize the entire land. So, it entered into agreement with our client family, wherein, it released 30 plots thereof back to the family – our clients’’
The Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri are made up of the popular Okumagba family of Warri, Okere- Urhobo kingdom.
‘’Our clients are the owners of all the land in the entire Okere-Urhobo kingdom Warri. Certain Mr. Louis Okumagba who is the black sheep of the family started to foment trouble, disturbing and threatening Seriviri Nig. Ltd, with thugs and dangerous weapons which led to his arrest in 2019 to the Police Force Headquarters’, Abuja. After being granted bail by the police, the suspect (Mr. Louis Okumagba) rushed to file a fundamental Human Rights action against the Police, at the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri. The action stalled the prosecution of the suspect (Mr. Louis) by the Police’’.
The families said the suit of the suspect against the Police was dismissed by the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri, with a specific order of the Court directing the police to arrest and prosecute the suspect (Mr Louis Okumagba).
‘’While the Police were looking for the suspect for arrest and prosecution as directed by the Court, the same suspect went to social media (Opera news) to declare that “there will be looming danger of war/crisis between the Itsekiri and Urhobos”, thereby inciting, promoting and instigating communal war between the two peaceful co-existing communities of Itsekiri and Urhobo’’.
This incitement, according to the families, created several apprehensions in the minds of locals, which has affected the hitherto peace that reigned and pervaded the two communities.
‘’Furthermore, the suspect posted on the same social media that some named members of our clients namely, Chief Gideon Okumagba, Stanley Oki, Chief Victor Okumagba, Engr. Prince Ojuvwu Okumagba and others, sent assassins to his house to kill him, but he escaped by the whiskers. He confirmed that he had a one-on-one confrontation with the assassins, who confirmed the named members of our clients above, as the people who commissioned them to eliminate him’’.
The legal practitioners described Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu as bunch of responsible families
‘’Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families are known throughout Nigeria for their peaceful disposition. The named individuals are distinguished and respected members of the Okumagba family and the Nigeria Society. Our clients therefore take the allegation of hiring assassins by its members very seriously, especially in this era of Security challenges in the country’’.
The families also deplored the actions of Louis Okumagba and urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good offices to investigate the allegations and anyone found culpable to be brought to book.
‘’So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive. We assure you of our client’s co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition’’.
Okere-Urhobo royal families rebuke Louis Okumagba, seek IGP’s Intervention
Royal families in Okere-Urhobo have condemned the role of Chief Louis Okumagba in the 30 plots released by the Delta State government to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State.
They described it as a negative development and a minus for peace and development in Delta State.
In a letter titled: ‘’Attempt / efforts to cause communal war, fanning members of the community for communal dispute, conduct likely to cause breach of peace and criminal defamation of characters of our clients; Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State, all committed by Mr. Louis Okumagba – a call to investigate the allegation herein, the families urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good office to investigate allegations against Louis Okumagba, so as to prevent a monumental communal war/crisis between Itsekiri and the Urhobo of Okere Urhobo Kingdom.
’’God forbid a repetition of what happened in 1997/98 in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom’’
Counsel to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo Kingdom, L O. Egboyi & CO said in the 1974/76, the then government of Mid-Western Nigeria acquired a part or portion of our client’s land for public purpose.
‘’In 2017, the Delta State government gave part of this acquired land to Messrs. Seriviri Nig. Ltd. for the purpose of partnership (Leisure Park) with the state government, covered by a certificate of Occupancy. Considering the size of the land given to Seriviri Nig. Ltd, for the partnership, it could not utilize the entire land. So, it entered into agreement with our client family, wherein, it released 30 plots thereof back to the family – our clients’’
The Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri are made up of the popular Okumagba family of Warri, Okere- Urhobo kingdom.
‘’Our clients are the owners of all the land in the entire Okere-Urhobo kingdom Warri. Certain Mr. Louis Okumagba who is the black sheep of the family started to foment trouble, disturbing and threatening Seriviri Nig. Ltd, with thugs and dangerous weapons which led to his arrest in 2019 to the Police Force Headquarters’, Abuja. After being granted bail by the police, the suspect (Mr. Louis Okumagba) rushed to file a fundamental Human Rights action against the Police, at the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri. The action stalled the prosecution of the suspect (Mr. Louis) by the Police’’.
The families said the suit of the suspect against the Police was dismissed by the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri, with a specific order of the Court directing the police to arrest and prosecute the suspect (Mr Louis Okumagba).
‘’While the Police were looking for the suspect for arrest and prosecution as directed by the Court, the same suspect went to social media (Opera news) to declare that “there will be looming danger of war/crisis between the Itsekiri and Urhobos”, thereby inciting, promoting and instigating communal war between the two peaceful co-existing communities of Itsekiri and Urhobo’’.
This incitement, according to the families, created several apprehensions in the minds of locals, which has affected the hitherto peace that reigned and pervaded the two communities.
‘’Furthermore, the suspect posted on the same social media that some named members of our clients namely, Chief Gideon Okumagba, Stanley Oki, Chief Victor Okumagba, Engr. Prince Ojuvwu Okumagba and others, sent assassins to his house to kill him, but he escaped by the whiskers. He confirmed that he had a one-on-one confrontation with the assassins, who confirmed the named members of our clients above, as the people who commissioned them to eliminate him’’.
The legal practitioners described Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu as bunch of responsible families
‘’Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families are known throughout Nigeria for their peaceful disposition. The named individuals are distinguished and respected members of the Okumagba family and the Nigeria Society. Our clients therefore take the allegation of hiring assassins by its members very seriously, especially in this era of Security challenges in the country’’.
The families also deplored the actions of Louis Okumagba and urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good offices to investigate the allegations and anyone found culpable to be brought to book.
‘’So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive. We assure you of our client’s co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition’’.
……………………………………………………
THE HEADS AND MEMBERS OF THE OLODI, OKI AND IGHOGBADU FAMILIES OF OKERE-URHOBO OF WARRI, THE GOOD PEOPLE OF DELTA STATE AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC AT LARGE SHOULD COMPLETELY DISCOUNTENANCE THE FALSE PUBLICATION BY ONE LOUIS OKUMAGBA AS HE DOES NOT REPRESENT THE INTERESTS OF THE T FAMILIES OF OLODI, OKI & IGHOGBADU. HERE ARE THE FACTS BY CHIEF GEDEON OKUMAGBA, A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE FAMILIES.
My attention has just been drawn to the recent publication by Louis Okumagba published by some newspapers and online organizations. I am here on behalf of the tripartite family to refute that fallacy and to posit the true position.
Firstly, it is clear here that the maker of that publication fabricated the story.
The Okumagba family does not own any land by itself in Warri. It is a fact that the tripartite families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu collectively owned landed properties in the Warri metropolis, facts that have been judicially noticed by the majority of the good people of Delta State.
The families are represented by Heads of the Kindred family and are the original owners of the land until it was compulsory acquired by the then Bendel State Government. The families currently have their administrative office at No 60 Okumagba Avenue Warri where they meet frequently to deal with issues bothering on their family lands and other related family matters. As one of the elders in the family, specifically as related to the false claims by Louis Okumagba, I am well abreast of the issues raised in that publication.
Having stated the above narratives, I will now move further to clear the air on the position of the families of Olodi, Oki and Okumagba on this matter. The good people of Warri are not in any war or in a battle over the landed property opposite Don Domingo College, Warri, and it is very shameful that the said Louis is trying to incite tribal/ethnic battle in that publication. It is not true that the Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan used officials of the Delta State Government to intimidate and arrest Louis Okumagba. To be candid, it was my humble self-Chief, Gideon Okumagba that reported his criminal extortion of money from developers to the Police Area Commander Office, Warri wherein we both dragged the matter to the office of the Inspector General of Police Abuja. While the case was being deliberated on in Abuja, Louis Okumagba jumped bail and hurriedly filed a fundamental Human Rights Application against me, Inspector General of Police and Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan at Warri High Court just to shield himself from being prosecuted for his criminal act. I equally filed a Counter application in that case and at the end the Judgment was resolved in my favour while his Fundamental Human Rights Application was dismissed with cost. Louis has been a fugitive. Since that judgment, he has not been seen within the Warri environment.
Louis Okumagba claimed that he has been in the forefront of the land in dispute is false and misrepresentation of facts. And the alleged grabbing of over 30 hectares of land by the Okowa Government led by High Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan is equally false. As I have stated earlier, the land was compulsory acquired by the then Bendel state for public purposes. The Delta State government has since done the needful by releasing/returning parts of the land to the Olodi, Oki & lghogbadu families who are the rightful owners. The first barge of 4.6 hectares of land was released to the family on the 26 day of June 1988 and the second barge of the release of the unused land was released to the Olodi, Oki &1ghogbadu families on the 14 of January 2000. Also, the Olodi, Oki & Ighogbadu families have an agreement with the Government of Delta State over the remaining parts of the land stated above.
To be more specific, the remaining portion of the land was released to Seriviri Nigeria Limited wherein Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan is one of the Directors of that company and the said company also have an internal agreement with the families and half of the land described in this paragraph was released to the families and I can vividly remembered that individuals of the three families benefited from it including Louis Okumagba.
In the final analysis, it is very clear there was never any consultation by Louis Okumagba with the well-known families of Olodi, Oki & Ighogbadu before that Publication was made by him. It’s a futile attempt to incite the Urhobo and Itsekiri into a needless bickering. There is no dispute as far as the land in this narrative is concerned. The said Louis should avail himself to enable the police conclude their investigation in the crime levied against him. The land in question belongs to the Olodi, Oki & lghogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo and he should stop spreading false claims and division among the families and tribes in Delta State. If there are disputes in any land owned by these families, it is the heads and members of the family who will collectively decide to institute an action in court.
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari and 36 state governors to “publicly instruct the Nigeria police and state security outfits to respect, protect, and facilitate the rights of everyone to freedom of expression, assembly, association, and equal participation during the election campaigns, regardless of their party affiliation.”
SERAP also urged Buhari to “publicly instruct the Nigeria police to facilitate the right of every Nigerian to participate on an equal basis in the political process in any part of the country, and to ensure that the police is not used by state governors to target supporters of opposition parties and those holding differing political views.”
According to reports, there are concerns about the lack of a level playing field. The police in Ebonyi State recently dispersed hundreds of supporters of the Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi who gathered for a rally in Abakaliki. Mr Obi has also condemned the attack and intimidation of the party’s supporters.
In the letters dated 8 October, 2022 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization said, “Facilitating the rights of supporters of political parties to hold rallies and processions on an equal basis would promote public confidence in the integrity of the democratic process.”
SERAP said, “The right to participate meaningfully and equally in the political and electoral processes including to hold rallies, processions or meetings during the campaigns is part and parcel of any system of representative government.”
The letters, read in part: “We would continue to monitor how authorities at all levels are respecting, protecting, and facilitating these fundamental rights ahead of the 2023 elections. We would take all appropriate legal actions to ensure accountability for violations of these rights.”
“Respecting, protecting, and facilitating the equal enjoyment of the rights of everyone to speak, assemble, hold rallies, processions or meetings would ensure that the individual citizen can effectively participate in and contribute to the country’s democracy.”
“These rights cannot be denied or abridged on account of differing political views or affiliations.”
“Authorities must promptly, thoroughly, independently, impartially, and effectively investigate the reports of any violations of these rights, and bring suspected perpetrators including non-state actors, to justice. The victims must be provided access to justice and effective remedies.”
“Candidates and political parties and their supporters should be allowed to hold rallies, processions or meetings on an equal basis, and free of intimidation, harassment or threat of attack.”
“Section 14(2)(c) of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended) provides that ‘the participation by the people in their government shall be ensured in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.’”
“Section 91(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 provides that the Commissioner of Police of each State ‘shall provide adequate security for proper and peaceful conduct of political rallies and processions in their respective jurisdictions.’”
“Section 91(4) provides that ‘No political party in Nigeria, its candidates [and supporters] shall be prevented from holding rallies, processions or meetings at any time for their constitutional political purposes.’”
“Several provisions of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights both of which Nigeria guarantee the rights of everyone to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and political participation.”
“Furthermore, the African Union African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, which Nigeria has also ratified also calls upon States Parties to respect, protect, promote and fulfil the right to political participation.”
“Popular participation is the bedrock of democracy. Ensuring the equal right of every Nigerian to hold rallies, processions or meetings in any state of the country, and Abuja during the election campaigns is essential to the functioning of our participatory and constitutional democracy.”
“The constitutional guarantee of equal protection confers a substantive right to participate not only in elections but also to hold rallies, processions or meetings on an equal basis.”
“Whether elections ultimately produce accountable and legitimate government depends not only on voting rules but also on factors such as how the rights of people are respected, protected and facilitated during campaigns.”
“We hope that the aspects highlighted will help guide your actions in acting to ensure full respect for the human rights of every Nigerian during the campaigns regardless of their party affiliation.”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
9/10/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
PRESS RELEASE
EID-EL-MAULUD: SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES MUSLIMS, PREACHES PEACE
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated Muslims as they celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Maulud which marks the birth of Prophet Muhammed.
He urged them to emulate the life and good virtues of Prophet Muhammed and also follow the path of peace for the sustainable development and growth of Lagos State.
Governor Sanwo-Olu in a message issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, urged Nigerians, especially Muslims to continue to pray and work for peace in Nigeria, especially as the country prepares for the 2023 general elections.
Governor Sanwo-Olu urged the Muslim Ummah and Nigerians as a whole to embrace peace, harmony and tolerance in line with the teachings of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH), adding that we must remain tolerant and continue to work in harmony with other religious denominations for a peaceful and violence-free society.
He said: “Today, I join millions of people around the world, to wish our Muslim brothers and sisters in Lagos State and in Nigeria Happy Maolud Nabiy, which is the celebration of the birthday of Prophet Muhammed (PBUH).
“I want to urge Nigerians, especially Muslims to seize the opportunity of the celebration of the birthday of Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) to strengthen their love towards one another and make the society a better place by shunning tendencies that could tamper with the unity and stability in the country.
“Let us continue to pray and work for peace of our dear State, Lagos and Nigeria, especially as we prepare for the forthcoming 2023 general elections. Let us do everything within our best to eschew violence and acts inimical to our democracy.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu reassured Lagos residents of his government’s commitment to delivering dividends of democracy, good governance and people-oriented programmes through the six pillars THEMES developmental agenda for Greater Lagos.
The Governor, who commended Lagosians for their steadfastness, resilience, support and cooperation with his administration, assured them that the Greater Lagos agenda he promised is on course, adding that he will work harder for the progress and development of the State in line with his campaign promises.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
09 OCTOBER 2022
Okowa mourns Vincent Ogbulafor
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta and Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has condoled with his Abia counterpart, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu, over the death of former National Chairman of PDP, Chief Vincent Ogbulafor.
Ogbulafor, pioneer National Secretary of the party, reportedly died on Thursday in Canada at 73.
In a condolence message by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika in Asaba on Saturday, Okowa expressed sadness over the death of the erstwhile party boss and commiserated with members of his family and the people of Olokoro in Umuahia South Local Government of Abia State.
He said that Ogbulafor would be remembered for his outstanding contributions to the growth of the party, especially from its formative years.
“The death of our former National Chairman, Chief Vincent Ogbulafor, came to me with shock, especially now that his wealth of experience is needed in our rescue mission for our country.
“He was a true embodiment of a ‘partyman’ who contributed immensely to the party’s growth and development.
“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I commiserate with members of Ogbulafor family, his community, my dear brother Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu and the government and people of Abia state over the passing of this great Nigerian.
“He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, political associates, particularly those whose lives he touched in diverse ways,” he said.
Okowa prayed God to grant the deceased eternal rest and the immediate family the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.
2nd October, 2022
DELTA PDP CONGRATULATES GOVERNOR OKOWA OVER NATIONAL AWARD
Delta State Peoples Democratic Party, PDP has Congratulated Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for the recognition and conferment of the national award; Commander Of The Order Of The Niger, CON on him, by President Mohammadu Buhari.
The felicitation was contained in a congratulatory message by the State Publicity Secretary, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, which reads: “The entire Delta State PDP family, heartily Congratulates His Excellency, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa on your recognition and conferment of the national award of Commander Of The Order Of The Niger, CON, by His Excellency, President Mohammadu Buhari, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
“Your nomination and endorsement, as the recipient of this prestigious national honour and award, is ample testimony of the national acclaim you have attained, not only as the distinguished Governor of Delta State, but indeed in full cognizance of your sterling reputation and contributions, as a true national statesman, nation builder, peacemaker, detribalized unifier and an exemplary leader in our collective quest towards strengthening and deepening our democratic experience as a people and nation.
“We are very proud of your unparalleled achievements as the Governor of Delta State and the undisputed leader of our party at this auspicious time in our national history and we are fully confident that this prestigious award will serve as a catalyst to spur you to greater heights and glory at the national stage.
Once again, Congratulations Your Excellency.
Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State
3rd October, 2022
DELTA PDP HAILS HON. ELUMELU ON HIS NATIONAL AWARD
Delta State PDP has extended warm felicitations to Rt. Hon. Ndudi Godwin ELUMELU, Minority Leader, Federal House of Representatives, over his nomination and approval for the National Award in the rank of OON, (Officer of the Order of the Niger), by President Mohammadu Buhari.
The congratulatory message was contained in a press release by the State Publicity Secretary of Delta State PDP, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, which reads: “Delta State PDP warmly congratulates the Minority Leader, Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Godwin Elumelu, on his approval as the recipient of the National Award in the rank of OON, (Officer of the Order of the Niger), by President Mohammadu Buhari.
“Your contributions as Minority Leader of the Federal House of Representatives, have been incisive, penetrating, and robust all of which have underscored and established your passion and patriotism as a true Nigerian deserving of the national recognition which the President has so graciously approved.
“We have no doubts whatsoever that this National Award is well deserved and will further energize and galvanize you with greater zeal to deliver more democracy dividends to your people and your country.
Once again, Congratulations, Sir!
Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.
PRESS RELEASE
ELUMELU: APC HAS NO RESPECT FOR CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY
Delta State Peoples Democratic Party PDP, has responded to a recent Press Release by the All Progressives Congress, APC, titled: “Your government is an embarrassment, Delta State APC chides Okowa… Urges him to apologize to Deltans for his failures,” signed by Ebata Onojeghuo Esq, Delta State Publicity Secretary, APC, describing it as an unfortunate and regrettable manifestation of disrespect for constitutional authority.
A statement by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, State Publicity Secretary, Delta PDP, in response to the APC Press Release, which took a swipe at the Delta State Government for apologising to Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, Minority Leader, Federal House of Representatives, through the State Commissioner for Works (Urban and Highways), Mr. Noel Omodon over an embarrassing incident in his Federal Constituency, reads:
“Our attention has been drawn to a recent Press Statement by the All Progressives Congress, APC, signed by Ebata Onojeghuo Esq, Delta State Publicity Secretary, APC and we note with dismay, the unfortunate and regrettable manifestation of disrespect for the constitutional authority vested in the person and office of the Minority Leader, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“That the APC would reference and justify with its warped logic, the unconscionable acts of a bunch of misinformed and misguided youths to obstruct, impede, embarrass the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, with an unruly display of hooliganism, is not only in bad faith, no matter how genuine their intentions and demands may be, but an act of barbarism, couched in the form of an obviously scripted protest deliberately taken beyond the boundaries of civility.
“We have no doubts whatsoever that this show of shame obviously contrived to embarrass the distinguished Minority Leader in his own Federal Constituency, is the handiwork of the APC, who apparently deployed their thuggish agents in the Constituency, to engage and compromise some idle, misguided and disgruntled youths, who obviously relish every opportunity to exhibit their recalcitrance.
“This crass and unfortunate manifestation of disrespect for recognized constitutional authority, is a clear and shameful reflection of the brazen disregard with which the APC equally treats its own members occupying such constitutionally empowered positions and we are not at all surprised by their robust and gleeful endorsement of this primitive act of rowdy protest which ought to and should be roundly and comprehensively condemned, by all civilized individuals and groups. There are better and more responsible, civilized ways of presenting issues than this.
“Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, is a mercurial and outstanding PDP lawmaker, who has, in his two separate tenures at the House, distinguished himself both as a lawmaker and as the Minority Leader, with an excellent track record of unparalleled delivery of democracy dividends to his constituents in the four Local Government Areas of the Federal Constituency he represents and to the Nigerian masses, as one of the most robust and dynamic leaders in the country, in the opposition gallery of the lower House of the National Assembly.
“We are proud to confirm that Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, keyed into the SMART Agenda and the #Stronger Delta objective of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s administration from the onset and has been one of the exemplary leaders in the implementation of the initiatives, through his comprehensive empowerment programmes, jobs creation, skills acquisition, infrastructural development projects and other incentives, which have impacted positively on the lives of his people across all strata and the transformation of the communities in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency.
“It is therefore totally unacceptable for the APC to cast aspersion on the Delta State Government for apologising to one of our star performers in the democratic space and we want to state here categorically that we not only fully align with the Delta State Commissioner for Works (Urban and Highways), Mr. Noel Omodon by adding our own voice to the apologies, but we are fully satisfied with his very concise, cerebral and articulate explanation of the circumstances that resulted in delaying the completion of the project.
“Let us put it on record by reminding the APC that due to the sorry state of Federal roads, particularly in Delta State, heavy-duty trucks passing through the Issele-Uku metropolis to access the Benin/Asaba/Onitsha Expressway, particularly, the Ogbeofu Road, which is the very artery of the Issele-Uku NYSC Orientation Camp Road Project, now put pressure on these State/Community roads, thereby destroying them.
“Sadly, the Deputy Senate President does not see any reason to comment or intervene on this dire situation which falls squarely on the table of the Federal Government and is yet another glaring example of APC’s ineptitude, which notwithstanding, the Delta State Government is finding a lasting solution to the terrible conditions of our Federal roads.
“We are quite pleased that Mr. Omodon has equally expressed the sympathies of the State Government and identified with the pains the people of Aniocha North, particularly the inhabitants of Idumuje-Ugboko, Issele-Uku, Onicha-Uku, and other road users in the area have to go through as a result of the road, even as he has also assured the people that all the necessary logistics, equipment and materials have been secured and the project will be handled with accelerated effort and efficiency to ensure speedy completion, to the shame and chagrin of the APC detractors.
“We have consistently maintained that the PDP administration of Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa is a listening and action Government, which has always responded and will continue to deliver the full dividends of democracy to Deltans, especially with the continued active contributions and invaluable support of the Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, Minority Leader Federal House of Representatives, as we march towards achieving a #Stronger Delta for all Deltans.
Delta is PDP and PDP is Delta.
PDP! Power to the People.
Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza,
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.
Delta deplores state of federal roads, calls for power devolution
Delta Government has decried the deplorable state of some federal roads in the state and called on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to address the situation.
Addressing a news conference in Asaba on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, said that the deplorable state of federal roads across the country justified calls for devolution of power in the polity.
Aniagwu who was with the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, said that the state government had spent enormous resources on interventions on federal roads but pointed out that some others had become dilapidated, without attention from the Federal Government.
He stressed that devolving power to component units would provide them more funds to undertake the task of infrastructural development of the states, including roads, that seemed to have overwhelmed the Federal Government.
“We have continued to intervene on federal roads in the state since 2015, and some of you have had cause to accompany us on inspection of these federal roads.
“You also know that we have intervened three times on the Eku-Agbor-Uromi road which is also a federal road.
“Not long ago, we wanted to start another intervention on the road but the Federal Government said the road has been awarded to a contractor and that made it very difficult for us to do what we needed to do,” he said.
The commissioner disclosed that the attention of the state government had been drawn to a viral video on a failed part of Uromi(Edo)-Agbor(Delta) road and said that it was a federal road.
He explained that the state government had intervened on two different occasions on the road.
“We were intervening on that road and other federal roads in the state until we were told by the Federal government that the job of the road had already been awarded to a contractor.
“The road has gone very bad to the extent that commuters are going through a lot of troubles on it and we have pleaded with the Federal Government to take another look at that road because it is in a very bad shape.
“You will recall that when we revamped the Agbor Technical College, we intervened on that road and we never asked for any refunds in these interventions.
“What has become a challenge is that the Federal Government has taken far more than they can deal with in a number of these projects and that’s why people have been calling for the devolution of powers to the component units.
“This is important because when you devolve power and allow the component units to tackle these issues it means that you will also have an adjustment in the revenue sharing formular such that states will have more resources to to deal with some of these issues that affects our people.
“We are very very pained as a government that these federal roads are in a very terrible situation and commuters from across the country are actually going through hellish situation to travel through these routes,” Aniagwu stated.
“All the federal roads we have intervened have gulped several billions of naira and we are not even going to ask the federal government to refund us because what we did was to remedy the situation along those roads.
“We wish the federal government had given us approval for us to possibly intervene fully and that would have given us hope that we would be able to get back the funds, but even when we knew we won’t get back the funds, we have tried continously to intervene on these roads.
“We are therefore asking the federal government to mobilise the contractors to come and work on these roads because Nigerians are going through hell along these roads,” he added.
On the recent protest against EFCC by alleged “Yahoo boys” in the state, Aniagwu urged the people to remain calm, adding that government had ordered investigation into the incident.
He assured that the government would continue to protect the rights of law-abiding individuals, but that it would not protect anyone found to have gone against the law.
“The state government will carry out a thorough investigation to ascertain whether the EFCC operated within the confines of the law and whether in doing so they realised that there is need to respect the fundamental rights of those arrested.
“We will also examine whether those alleged to have gone on rampage to protest also respected the rights of the EFCC to carry out its duties as enabled by law,” Aniagwu said.
On his part, Ifeajika thanked journalists in the state for their support and urged them to do more critical analysis on issues as watchdogs of the society by making governments accountable to the people.
He said that Delta had been adjudged by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) as second least poverty state in the country, adding that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa was being accorded a national honour by the APC-led Federal Government in recognition of his outstanding accomplishments in the governance of the state.
Okowa wants improved condition of service for healthcare professionals
Delta Governor and Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, on Thursday, called for improved condition of service for healthcare professionals so as to discourage their migration from the country in search of greener pastures.
Okowa made the call when he received members of the Committee of Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors of Federal Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria led by Prof. Abubakar Auwal who visited him at Government House, Asaba.
He lamented the exodus of medical doctors and nurses from the country in search of greener pastures, and said that healthcare providers should be provided with facilities to enable them discharge their peofessional duties as a way of halting brain drain in the country.
According to him, the federal and sub-national governments should do the needful by prioritising healthcare delivery through deliberate policy framework that would enable the country to retain its healthcare professionals.
The governor said federal and state governments should place high premium on the healthcare needs of the masses, their education and welfare scheme as a veritable means of enhancing their living standard.
“Every visionary government must take proactive steps aimed at providing qualitative and affordable healthcare delivery system that will take care of the vulnerable segment of the society.
“I am glad that you have a strong committee, especially in the current times that we are in with lots of issues in our nation. I believe that your work is not easy and you realise the challenges we face in medical institutions.
“So, I believe that when you continue to sit together, you will be able to proffer solutions to issues, share ideas as to what to do to help this country at this time when it appears that things are going wrong in every facet.
“I truly want to let you know that we have had a very strong relationship with the Federal Medical Center, Asaba. I know that they did carry a lot of load.
“As a nation, there are too many things going wrong both in the health and education sectors. And truly, I am one person that believes that we must prioritise health and education in this nation if we are to do well,” he said.
While reiterating the need for government to improve the condition of service for doctors and other health personnel, the governor noted that their exit, if not checked, will culminate in loss of capable hands to render critical medical services to patients.
He disclosed that the contributory health insurance scheme of his administration had no fewer than one million enrollees, including pregnant women and children under five years of age, with the government paying premium for their healthcare services.
“With a lot of our people below the poverty line, the greatest service you can do to touch their lives, is to ensure that we provide a process through which they can stay healthy and also ensure that their children are educated.
“Unfortunately, our priorities do not seem to be taken in the right direction. I believe that there are so many policies that we undertake in this nation that is anti-poor.
“Most times, we tend to undertake policies that impact more positively on the middle class and the rich and erroneously, we belive that we are touching the lives of the poor.
“Most poor persons are not able to see their children through school nor access healthcare. And many times we talk about health tourism and how to curb it, when we should first talk about the foundation of the health of our people, which is the primary health care.
“When people have functional primary health care centres, we can now progress to the issues of secondary health care institutions. The foundation is nearly lost and it is not the best for our nation.
“The National Health Act was signed into law in 2014, have we really implemented that Act by trying to do the things we ought to do?
“In this country, a lot of persons are getting poorer by the day. We have not created opportunity for people to have access to good healthcare. Many people still self-medicate and many die in the course of that.
“So, we need to find way to revisit the entire process and rework our health delivery system in such a way that it works.
“We have included in our National Health Act, the basic healthcare provision fund. It has been very sloppy the way they try to work out the operations.
“I am aware that they only released monies for one or two years and that is all, every other thing has not been done.
“I am one person that believes that if we try that process, with the seed money there, encouraging the state government with the collaborations of the local government, we can truly go very far in providing basic health care for all our vulnerables for a cost that is low.
“We can ensure that a lot of our people are able to access health care, without having to pay out of their pockets at that point in time of their need. We need to implement the National Health Act in full,” he added.
Other areas of necessity, Okowa stressed, included education, security, job creation and human capital development, and described as unfortunate, the eight months industrial action by Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) that had kept students at home.
He said that the four universities owned by the state had been in session because his administration understood the importance of education and provided adequately for the institutions and the personnel.
He, therefore, urged the Federal Government to do the needful so that the union’s strike would be called off to enable students resume studies.
“Coming to the education of our people, it is unfortunate to see that our children in higher institutions have been out of school for eight months now. No matter the situation, it ought not to be so.
“We need to find a solution on both sides because the children and their parents are suffering. We have four Universities in Delta because of the huge educational gap in the state before now. So, we have to upgrade some institutions to university.
“We did this because we have prioritised education and know the importance of education. If we educate our people, we are actually helping to lift them out of poverty,” Okowa stated.
He assured that the state government would continue to ensure that education was given the prime attention that it deserved.
He charged medical directors to fashion out ways of expanding access to healthcare services both in urban and rural communities.
Earlier, leader of the team, Prof. Auwal had said that they were in the state for their meeting, and thanked Governor Okowa for prioritising healthcare delivery for residents of the state and his giant strides in other sectors of the state’s economy.
He called on other sub-national governments in the country to emulate Okowa’s developmental policies and programmes.
Auwal observed that the collaboration between Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Asaba and the Delta State Government had significantly helped in reducing the burden of healthcare delivery services.
He noted that the free medical care for pregnant women and children under five years of age in Delta State was a model for other states to emulate, adding that the healthcare policy was a right step in them right direction.
While pledging the readiness of the Committee towards improved healthcare delivery in the country, Prof. Auwal called on government at all levels to assist in making healthcare services available and affordable for the masses.
Delta repudiates Ayakoromo bridge contract
Delta Government on Friday said the multi-billion naira contract for the construction of Ayakoromo bridge in Burutu Local Government Area of the state had been repudiated due to poor performance by the contractor.
Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Mr Noel Omodon, told newsmen in Asaba, that the decision on the contract was taken at the State Executive Council meeting presided by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
According to him, Exco approved the repudiation of the Ayakoromo bridge contract because the contractor was not able to carry on with the job as expected.
“The pace of work has become so slow and they are having their own internal challenges and because it is one of the very important projects we are desirous of completing, Exco approved the termination of the contract to enable us get a new contractor to complete the project as soon as possible,” he explained.
Omodon also disclosed that Exco approved the 2023 budget estimates for transmission to the House of Assembly for approval.
“The main purpose of today’s Exco meeting was to consider the 2023 budget estimates and we have approved it for onward transmission to the State House of Assembly for consideration and approval”
The commissioner who was flanked by his counterparts in Rural and Riverine Roads, Chief Solomon Golley and Girl-Child Empowerment, Mrs Nkechi Chukwurah, said Exco also approved the construction of Kwekagbor Road opposite Summit Junction, Asaba; Mission Road, Akumazi in Ika North East; Idheze internal road; Olomoro-Enwhe Road and Yanga Market Oleh-Irri-Aviara Road all in Isoko South.
He said more projects were reviewed due to rising cost of diesel, granite, sharp stone, rods, bitumen, asphalt among other construction materials.
“Exco approved the review for Orere Bridge, Achala-Ibusa Road, NYSC Road Issele-Uku; and Trans Warri Road and bridges.
“We also approved contracts for the construction of College of Medicine Faculty at University of Delta Agbor; construction of Faculty of Management and Social Sciences in the three new universities among others,” he said.
He said Exco also gave approval for some projects to aid the successful hosting of the National Sports Festival billed for November 2022 in Asaba.
October 8, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Grief-Stricken, Mourns Former National Chairman, Vincent Ogbulafor
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is grief-stricken over the death of one of our founding members, former National Chairman, former National Secretary of our great Party and former Minister of State, Special Duties, Prince Vincent Ogbulafor.
Prince Ogbulafor was an exceptionally patriotic leader, a detribalized Nigerian and quintessential democrat who dedicated his skills, resources and energies in selfless service towards the unity, stability, democratic advancement and economic development of our nation.
As the National Secretary of the PDP, Prince Ogbulafor played key roles alongside others leaders of our Party in laying a solid foundation for effective Party management and administration as well as development and implementation of our robust policy guidelines that led to key accomplishments of successive PDP administrations in the country.
As PDP National Chairman as well as Minister of Special Duties, he displayed a unique leadership capacity in leading the PDP to effectively deliver the dividends of democracy to Nigerians.
The PDP mourns over this great national tragedy especially coming at this point in our national life when our Party and indeed the nation need his wealth of experience the most.
The PDP commiserates with the Ogbulafor Family, the Government and people of Abia State, the PDP in Abia State as well as the people of Olokoro, Umuahia South of Abia State and pray to God to grant us all the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
Text of Press Interactive Session by the National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Hon. Debo Ologunagba, Today, Saturday October 8, 2022
The PDP formally informs Nigerians that our Party, the PDP will officially flag off its 2023 Presidential Election Campaign on Monday, October 10, 2022 in Uyo Akwa-Ibom State Capital.
Our Party is fully prepared for an issue-based campaign and our Presidential Candidate, H E. Atiku Abubakar and his running mate, H.E. Ifeanyi Okowa are fully “Articulated” for the campaign.
The PDP will take our campaign to all the States, Local Government Areas, Wards and Polling Units across the country under the Unified Campaign Structure as approved by the National Executive Committee (NEC) of our Party.
Our Campaign will be people-driven and focused on PDP and H.E. Atiku Abubakar’s mission to Rescue, Rebuild and Redirect our nation from the abysmal misrule of the All Progressives Congress (APC)
From our consultations across the six geo-political zones of the country, it is clear that Nigerians across board, irrespective of religion, ethnicity and even political affiliations accept the PDP Presidential Candidate, H.E. Atiku Abubakar as the best Candidate with the practical experience, capacity, broad-mindedness and willpower to Unite our nation, Revamp our national economy, and guarantee security of lives and property in our country.
Why Nigerians Want H.E. Atiku Abubakar
H.E. Atiku Abubakar as Vice President to President Olusegun Obasanjo was the Chairman of the National Economic Council.
During that period;
On APC Campaign:
The APC has become prostrate, handicapped and incapacitated to campaign as it has no legally valid candidate for the 2023 general elections.
GOV AKEREDOLU HONOURS AKIN OLOTU AT DAUGHTER’S WEDDING
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, on Saturday joined the family of Akin Olotu at the Solemnization of Holy Matrimony between Olamide Akin-Olotu and Paul Williams.
Olamide is the daughter of the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Akeredolu on Agric and Agribusines, Pastor Akin Olotu.
The wedding ceremony was held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG Redemption Court Ondo Province 4, Akure.
The Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Olowo of Owo,Oba Gbadegesin Ogunoye; the Ondo State Chairman of APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin; some members of the State Executive Council and other top government functionaries attended the Church wedding.
The Officiating Minister, Pastor Dele Akinyan who spoke on “Partnering for Life” identified two pillars of marriage including love and submission.
He called on the wife to submit to her husband and avoid unnecessary argument to sustain their marriage.
WE ARE CREATING ENABLING ENVIRONMENT FOR BUSINESSES, ENTREPRENEURS-GOV AKEREDOLU
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has said that his administration will continue to create enabling environment for the entrepreneurs and businesses to thrive.
The Governor pointed to his administration’s efforts on security and infrastructural development as some of the basic arrangements put in place to ensure enabling environment for entrepreneurs and investors to do business with ease.
Governor Akeredolu spoke on Friday at the Entrepreneurs’ Summit held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The DOME), Igbatoto road, Akure.
At the event, the Governor gave out one thousand free Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) Registration Certificates to businesses and presented business grants to ten innovative entrepreneurs.
He also launched the first Ondo State online classified marketplace with the assurance that it will expose entrepreneurs products and services to the world.
“This is a platform where businesses and entrepreneurs can upload their innovative products and services, buy and sell from one another as well as position their businesses for global brand visibility. Please join me as I hereby launch www.ondomarket.com.
“Our world today has gone digital even with marketplaces, and as a State we deem it fit to encourage business listing for our entrepreneurs. Now it is easy to showcase your businesses to the world. Anyone from around the world can easily locate businesses in Ondo State and I believe this will also help angel investors find you easily.” The Governor said.
According to Governor Akeredolu:”Security of lives and property, provision of health care, infrastructural development, constant power supply, innovative education, access to funds and many more, need urgent and constant attention.”
Arakunrin Akeredolu said his administration is connecting roads across the local government areas, from the rural to urban settlements, especially access to the market, adding that it has made commuting for entrepreneurs less stressful.
On security, the Governor noted that the Amotekun Corps is recording huge success in fighting crime and criminality to ensure that businesses and individuals are safe with a view to making the Sunshine State an attractive destination to investors.
He said:”Creating an enabling environment aids the process of achieving value in business and it is a major driver in achieving business goals.
“When the corporate environment is bedeviled with inclement atmosphere, businesses suffer, services are unsatisfactory, investors are discouraged, ideas and innovations die, unemployment rate increases, hunger and insecurity become the order of the day.”
Governor Akeredolu, while assuring that entrepreneurship will continue to remain a priority in the state, stressed that it has been a major priority of his administration since his first term in office.
“Part of our efforts is the creation of Ondo State Entrepreneurship Agency (ONDEA) through which this programme is being anchored. I am glad to disclose to you that thousands of people seated in this hall are beneficiaries of the agency, which is unarguably the first of such entrepreneurship agencies designed and solely directed to develop, manage and empower entrepreneurs for poverty eradication, job creation and economic development, in Nigeria today.
“It is important to note that our theme for today’s summit is not just “Creating an Enabling Environment for Entrepreneurs”, but an enabling environment for us all. Our dear country needs to be an enabling environment for all.
“Today, we are giving out to 1,000 businesses, free Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) Registration Certificates.
“This is because for businesses to create a reputable and relevant brand identity and to access corporate opportunities while doing business in Nigeria, such business must be registered with the appropriate commission. I am also aware that in 2022 alone, 100 businesses have benefitted from Business Setup and Rebranding Packages.
“Tonight, ten innovative entrepreneurs will definitely smile home with business grants. They will also embark on an international business trip.
“This tour is designed to foster networking opportunities also to open up their entrepreneurial minds for global awareness and innovative approach to proffering economic solutions for the advancement of the State and the country at large.”
Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Entrepreneurship Development and CEO ONDEA, Dr. Summy Smart-Francis, lauded Governor Akeredolu for his unwavering commitment to development of young entrepreneurs in the state.
He hailed the Governor for creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
He equally encouraged the young entrepreneurs to be focused and determined, saying Governor Akeredolu has created a lot of business opportunities in the state through ONDEA.
Other panelists including the deputy Governor, lucky Aiyedatiwa, who spoke at the well attended summit applauded Governor Akeredolu for his sterling achievements in all sectors of the economy in the state.
Highlights of the summit were Panel Sessions with Entrepreneurs, Heads of Government Parastatals, and the Deputy Governor.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
October 8, 2022.
Delta Politician, Anthony Akpeki marries former African track queen, Endurance Ojokolo
Delta politician, Anthony Akpeki, will on Saturday, December 17, 2022 marry former African track queen, Endurance Ojokolo.
The ceremony will begin at 10:00am.
According to a press release issued by the families of Pa Emmanuel Ojokolo and Pa Stephen Amatowa Akpeki of Ukwuani Nation and Okpe Kingdom, the marriage is scheduled to hold at 17 Ikpereva Street, Okirighwere in Sapele Local Government Area.
The traditional marriage will bring together high-ranking government functionaries, sportspersons and administrators, prominent traditional rulers, professionals, 2023 candidates and leaders of political parties around the world.
‘’The high society marriage reception of the 100 metres specialist and the renowned politician will take place at Sapele Township Stadium’’.
Anthony Ogheneyerowo Akpeki is a unique and essential player in Delta State politics.
Okere-Urhobo royal families knock Louis Okumagba over Uduaghan, land comments
Key families in Okere-Urhobo on Monday took steps to foil the divisive and land grabbing plan of one Louis Okumagba.
They also urged the good people of Delta State and the general public to completely discountenance the false publication by Louis Okumagba.
‘’Louis Okumagba does not represent the interests of the families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu of Okere-Urhobo’’
Heads and members of the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo of Warri South spoke on prejudices of some local and foreign publishers on the land opposite Don Domingo College, Warri Monday morning.
Chief Gideon Okumagba, a representative of the three families, read the statement of the royal families aloud to newsmen.
The families accused Louis Okumagba of distortion and inciting fear in Delta State.
‘’The families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu collectively owned landed properties in Warri’’
The Okere-Urhobo leaders said the land was acquired by the defunct Bendel State Government.
‘’The families are represented by Heads of the Kindred family and are the original owners of the land until it was acquired by the then Bendel State Government. The families currently have their administrative office at No 60 Okumagba Avenue Warri where they meet frequently to deal with issues. on family lands and other related family matters’’
They offered an itemized and caustic indictment of Louis Okumagba’s behavior in Warri South.
‘’As one of the elders in the family, specifically as related to the false claims by Louis Okumagba, I am well abreast of the issues raised in that publication. The good people of Warri are not in any war or in a battle over the landed property opposite Don Domingo College, Warri, and it is very shameful that the said Louis is trying to incite tribal/ethnic battle in that publication’’.
They promised to file a libel suit against individuals and organizations publishing Louis Okumagba’s false narrative.
‘’It is not true that the Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, used officials of the Delta State Government to intimidate and arrest Louis Okumagba. To be candid, it was Chief Gideon Okumagba that reported his criminal extortion of money from developers to the Police Area Commander Office in Warri’’.
The statement emphasized how the matter was dragged to the office of the Inspector General of Police Abuja.
‘’While the case was being deliberated on in Abuja, Louis Okumagba jumped bail and hurriedly filed a fundamental Human Rights Application against me, the Inspector General of Police and Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan at Warri High Court just to shield himself from being prosecuted for his criminal act. I equally filed a Counter application in that case and at the end the Judgment was resolved in my favour while his Fundamental Human Rights Application was dismissed with cost. Louis has been a fugitive. Since that judgment, he has not been seen within Warri’’.
Particularly, the families accused Louis Okumagba of trying to sow discord amongst Deltans through falsehood.
‘’Louis Okumagba claimed that he has been in the forefront of the land in dispute is false and misrepresentation of facts. And the alleged grabbing of over 30 hectares of land by the Okowa Government led by High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is equally false. The land was acquired by the then Bendel state for public purposes. The Delta State government has since done the needful by releasing/returning parts of the land to the Olodi, Oki and lghogbadu families who are the rightful owners. 4.6 hectares of land was released to the family on the 26 day of June 1988 and another part of the unused land was released to the Olodi,. Oki and 1ghogbadu families on the 14 of January 2000. Also, the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families have an agreement with the Government of Delta State over the remaining parts of the land’’
The families told news men there was zero evidence for Louis Okumagba claims of land grabbing.
‘To be more specific, the remaining portion of the land was released to Seriviri Nigeria Limited wherein Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is one of the directors of that company and the said company also have an agreement with the families and half of the land was released to the families. Indeed, the three families benefited from the land including Louis Okumagba ’’.
They scolded Louis Okumagba for rendering a real disservice.
‘’There was never any consultation by Louis Okumagba with the well-known families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu before that Publication was made by him. It’s a futile attempt to incite the Urhobo and Itsekiri into a needless bickering. There is no dispute as far as the land in this narrative is concerned. The said Louis should avail himself to enable the police conclude their investigation in the crime levied against him. The land in question belongs to the Olodi, Oki and lghogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo and he should stop spreading false claims and division among the families and tribes in Delta State. If there are disputes in any land owned by these families, it is the heads and members of the family who will collectively decide to institute an action in court’’,
Last week, the families condemned the role of Chief Louis Okumagba in the 30 plots released to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State.
They described it as a negative development and a minus for peace and development in Delta State.
In a letter titled: ‘’Attempt / efforts to cause communal war, fanning embers of communal dispute, conduct likely to cause breach of peace and criminal defamation of characters of our clients; Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State, all committed by Mr. Louis Okumagba – a call to investigate the allegation herein, the families urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good office to investigate allegations against Louis Okumagba, so as to prevent a monumental communal war/crisis between Itsekiri and the Urhobo of Okere Urhobo Kingdom.
’’God forbid a repetition of what happened in 1997/98 in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom’’
Counsel to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo Kingdom, L O. Egboyi & CO said in the 1974/76, the then government acquired a part or portion of our client’s land for public purpose.
‘’In 2017, the Delta State government gave part of this acquired land to Messrs. Seriviri Nig. Ltd. for the purpose of partnership (Leisure Park) with the state government, covered by a certificate of Occupancy. Considering the size of the land given to Seriviri Nig. Ltd, for the partnership, it could not utilize the entire land. So, it entered into agreement with our client family, wherein, it released 30 plots thereof back to the family – our clients’’
The Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri are made up of the popular Okumagba family of Warri, Okere- Urhobo kingdom.
‘’Our clients are the owners of all the land in the entire Okere-Urhobo kingdom Warri. Certain Mr. Louis Okumagba who is the black sheep of the family started to foment trouble, disturbing and threatening Seriviri Nig. Ltd, with thugs and dangerous weapons which led to his arrest in 2019 to the Police Force Headquarters’, Abuja. After being granted bail by the police, the suspect (Mr. Louis Okumagba) rushed to file a fundamental Human Rights action against the Police, at the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri. The action stalled the prosecution of the suspect (Mr. Louis) by the Police’’.
The families said the suit of the suspect against the Police was dismissed by the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri, with a specific order of the Court directing the police to arrest and prosecute the suspect (Mr Louis Okumagba).
‘’While the Police were looking for the suspect for arrest and prosecution as directed by the Court, the same suspect went to social media (Opera news) to declare that “there will be looming danger of war/crisis between the Itsekiri and Urhobos”, thereby inciting, promoting and instigating communal war between the two peaceful co-existing communities of Itsekiri and Urhobo’’.
This incitement, according to the families, created several apprehensions in the minds of locals, which has affected the hitherto peace that reigned and pervaded the two communities.
‘’Furthermore, the suspect posted on the same social media that some named members of our clients namely, Chief Gideon Okumagba, Stanley Oki, Chief Victor Okumagba, Engr. Prince Ojuvwu Okumagba and others, sent assassins to his house to kill him, but he escaped by the whiskers. He confirmed that he had a one-on-one confrontation with the assassins, who confirmed the named members of our clients above, as the people who commissioned them to eliminate him’’.
The legal practitioners described Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu as bunch of responsible families
‘’Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families are known throughout Nigeria for their peaceful disposition. The named individuals are distinguished and respected members of the Okumagba family and the Nigeria Society. Our clients therefore take the allegation of hiring assassins by its members very seriously, especially in this era of Security challenges in the country’’.
The families also deplored the actions of Louis Okumagba and urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good offices to investigate the allegations and anyone found culpable to be brought to book.
‘’So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive. We assure you of our client’s co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition’’.
Remarks by Malam Nasir El-Rufai, Governor of Kaduna State, at The presentation of the staff of office to the new Esu Chikun of Chikun Chiefdom, His Highness Isyaku Yari, held in Kakau on Wednesday, 5th October 2022.
PROTOCOLS
iii. Millennium City to Keke road
Thank you for listening.
President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Abuja said corruption in education sector continues to undermine investments, while critics downplay funding by focusing only on budgetary allocations, urging a more comprehensive re-evaluation of expenditure.
The President, who declared open the Fourth National Summit on Diminishing Corruption in the Public Sector at the State House, noted that measuring financing of education sector should include total education budget of each year by both federal and state budgets and other financial commitments in their totality.
The Summit was organised by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Office of Secretary to Government of the Federation (OSGF) and Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
“This year’s summit will mirror how corruption undermines educational policies, investments and create an unfriendly learning environment for our youths.
“Incessant strikes especially by unions in the tertiary education often imply that government is grossly underfunding education, but I must say that corruption in the education system from basic level to the tertiary level has been undermining our investment in the sector and those who go on prolonged strikes on flimsy reasons are no less complicit.
“The 1999 Constitution places a premium on education by placing it on the Concurrent List, thereby laying the responsibilities of budgeting and underwriting qualitative education on both the Federal and State Governments.
“The total education budget for each year is therefore a reflection of both federal and state budgets and should be viewed other financial commitments in their totality.
“The allocation to education in the federal budget should not be considered via allocation to the Federal Ministry of Education and also academic institutions alone, but should include allocation to the Universal Basic Education, transfers to TETFUND and refund from the Education Tax Pool Account to TETFUND,’’ he said.
President Buhari noted that the aggregate education budget in all 36 states of the Federation and that of the Federal Government, combined with the internally generated revenues of the educational institutions themselves were also subjects that require attention of critics of government funding of education.
“In line with the National Policy on Education, this administration has been implementing the Home-Grown School Feeding Programme to provide a free balanced meal per day for each child that attends public primary school in order to encourage school enrolment and facilitate accesses to universal basic education.
“To mitigate the impact of security challenges on our schools, I signed the Safe Schools Declaration ratification document in December 2019. The Federal Ministry of Education followed up and developed the Minimum Standard for Safe Schools document in 2021, all part of the Safe Schools Initiative. The Safe Schools Initiative is an expression of government’s commitment to continue to work towards the protection of students, teachers and the school environments,’’ the President added.
He expressed concern on the manifestation of various forms of corruption in the education sector.
“Government and stakeholders in the educational sector are concerned about the manifestation of various forms of corruption in the education sector.
“I am aware that students in our universities for example, use different terminologies to describe different forms of corruption they experience on our campuses. There is sorting or cash for marks/grades, sex for marks, sex for grade alterations, examination malpractice, and so on.
“Sexual harassment has assumed an alarming proportion. Other forms of corruption include pay-roll padding or ghost workers, lecturers taking up full time appointments in more than one academic institution, including private institutions, lecturers writing seminar papers, projects and dissertations for students for a fee, and admission racketeering, to mention only the most glaring corrupt practices,’’ he said.
President Buhari commended the ICPC for investigating and prosecuting sexual harassment as abuse of power in educational institutions.
“I approve and encourage them to continue to do so,’’ he noted.
The President assured that the Government will continue to fund education within realistically available revenue, urging stakeholders, including the media to equally advocate for transparency in the amount generated as internally generated revenue by educational institutions and how such funds are expended.
“Corruption in the expenditure of internally generated revenue of tertiary institutions is a matter that has strangely not received the attention of stakeholders in tertiary education, including unions.
“I call on stakeholders to demand accountability in the administration of academic institutions and for unions to interrogate the bloated personnel and recurrent expenditure of their institutions. Let me also implore the Unions to work with government to put faces and identities to names on the payroll,’’ the President added.
President Buhari also said the Government will continue to guarantee access and establish minimum benchmarks for quality education.
“Due to declining resources, government cannot bear the cost of funding education alone. I task our academics to attract endowments, research and other grants to universities, polytechnics and colleges of education similar to what obtains in other countries.
“About two weeks ago, I participated in the 77th United Nations General Assembly, in New York. One of the key events was Transforming Education Summit Leaders Day, titled: Transforming Education to Transform the World: Learning to Live Together Sustainably.
“Nigeria joined other countries in committing ‘to the vision of Education for Sustainable Development and to the objectives of the Greening Education Partnership’ and building ‘education systems that foster ethical and socially responsible global citizens’ who actively contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.
“That is a vision which we will continue to aspire and build,’’ President Buhari stated.
He congratulated the sole winner of 2022 Public Service Integrity Award, Superintendent Daniel Itse Amah, who rejected the sum of $200,000 to drop a case, and followed up with investigations until the culprit was prosecuted.
“I also commend the Chairman, ICPC, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the Registrar of JAMB, for organizing this summit and bringing together the three arms of Government, MDAs and other stakeholders to deliberate on corruption in the educational sector of Nigeria.’’
President Buhari noted that he was pleased to have participated in each of the previous summits organized by the current Board of the ICPC, under the leadership of Prof. Bolaji Owasanoye, SAN, in collaboration with the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, targeting different aspects of the administration’s commitment to fight corruption.
“From inception, this administration has consistently made the fight against corruption a cardinal pillar of its comprehensive commitments and agenda to reform the nation.
“We signed up to the Open Government Partnership and adopted the Open Government Declaration under which we committed to have robust anticorruption policies, mechanisms and practices that ensure transparency in the management of public finances and procurement, and to strengthen the rule of law.
“We have tried in the last seven years to keep faith with these commitments,’’ he added.
In his remarks, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, said the education sector had steadily assumed a pariah status because of corruption that erodes values and resources, noting that education had become an enabler of corruption, instead of a tool for reforms and molding character.
According to him, “Corruption is eroding the practical purpose of education at all levels, primary, secondary and tertiary.’’
The SGF urged leaders in the education sector to emulate the JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Olarewaju Oloyede, who had provided “good example of anti-corruption leadership.’’
The Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, said “JAMB is without doubt one of the parastatals that has achieved what no other agency has achieved by extending the boundaries of transparency and accountability in public service.’’
He said corruption was a manifestation of educational failure in society.
In His keynote address, former Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Attahiru Jega, said perception of corruption corrodes the nation’s image among nations, adding “corruption stymies development, drains resources and weakens social contract with the people.’’
President Buhari was presented with an award of “Anti-Corruption Icon’’ by the Chairman and Board of the ICPC.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 4, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH EX-PSN PRESIDENT, AHMED YAKASAI ON PASSING OF MOTHER, HAJIYA ASMAU IBRAHIM YAKASAI
President Muhammadu Buhari commiserates with family of former President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Ahmed Ibrahim Yakasai, on the passing of their mother, Hajiya Asmau Ibrahim Yakasai, who was 98 years old.
The President condoles with neighbours, friends and associates of Hajiya Asmau, whose kindness, charity and dedication to making life easier and better for others continue to yield testimonies.
President Buhari believes that God blessed the matriarch with long life to accomplish many good works, especially in lifting others, urging the family to approximate her good deeds on earth.
The President prays for a peaceful rest for the departed mother, grandmother and community builder.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 6, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI MEETS FREED KADUNA TRAIN PASSENGERS, THANKS NIGERIAN MILITARY FOR THEIR BRAVE SERVICES
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday met with the freed 23 passengers of the March 28, 2022 Abuja-Kaduna train attack at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) hospital in Kaduna.
The President made an impromptu visit to the hospital to see the victims of the train attack after commissioning Cadets of 69 Regular Course (Army, Navy and Air Force) of the NDA, in Afaka, Kaduna State.
Before boarding NAF 001 back to Abuja from the Kaduna International Airport, President Buhari detoured to the hospital, where he also thanked the Nigerian military for their brave services in securing the safe release of the hostages from Boko Haram terrorists.
Members of the Chief of Defence Staff Action Committee, led by Maj.-Gen. Usman Abdulkadir (Rtd), who facilitated the release of the hostages, were present at the hospital.
Others are Maj.-Gen Adamu Jalingo (Rtd), Brig.-Gen. Abubakar Saad (Rtd), Dr. Murtala Ahmed Rufai, Ibrahim Abdulllahi, Amb. Ahmed Magaji and Prof Yusuf Usman, Secretary.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. LEO Irabor had earlier introduced the Committee members and briefed the President.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 6, 2022
THE WEST MUST RETURN AFRICA’S STOLEN ASSETS, AS WELL AS ITS ARTEFACTS
– PRESIDENT BUHARI WRITES FOR FINANCIAL TIMES OF LONDON
5th October 2022
Nigerians were delighted by the news this summer that 72 artefacts, known as the Benin Bronzes, held by the Horniman Museum in London were returning home, 125 years after being plundered by British troops. The clamour for repatriation of looted treasures is becoming irresistible.
There was once a similar clamour for the return of Africa’s stolen assets, and I see both as part of the same struggle to bring back to Nigeria what is rightfully ours. Siphoned from the continent by corrupt former leaders, countless billions remain stashed in western bank accounts. Although Nigeria has arguably been the most successful among African nations in securing the return of stolen money, it has recovered only a fraction of what remains in the west.
Earlier this year, Nigeria was forced to take legal action against the UK National Crime Agency, after repeated delays to the return of money taken out of the country in the 1990s by former dictator General Sani Abacha. However, the court case reveals the scale of challenge before us. Abacha is thought to have siphoned off up to $5bn to the west. This case concerned just £150mn.
Given levels of corruption across Africa, there will be concern as to whether funds returned will be used appropriately. But we should not forget that it was through western jurisdictions that the money was laundered in the first place. Not trusting Africans to spend their own money properly echoes the argument that we can’t be trusted to look after our own cultural heritage.
In the case of both looted cultural heritage and stolen assets, western museums and authorities largely seem to agree that the loot should, in principle, be handed back. However, the technicalities of repatriation leave plenty of room for maintaining the status quo.
Museums say that treasures should be returned if it can be proved that they were looted. Of course, they argue, it is a different matter if artefacts were acquired through purchases and other legitimate means. But it is the same museums that are responsible for assessing the provenance of artefacts. They have a vested interest in keeping them, encouraging a lackadaisical approach and murky criteria.
In 2025, a new museum will open to showcase the treasures of the Kingdom of Benin. Designed by Ghanaian-British architect David Adjaye, the Edo Museum of West African Art will sit in Benin City, the former capital of the Edo kingdom. But without the return of more bronzes held in the west, we may struggle to fill the museum.
Nigeria also has an infrastructure gap to fill — as the World Bank and other international development institutions have highlighted. Though my administration has undertaken the largest infrastructure programme since our country gained independence, the hold-up in repatriating stolen assets held in the west will make it difficult to finance new projects that help to alleviate poverty.
In 2017, Switzerland returned $321mn to Nigeria’s Social Investment Programme to fund the national social safety net. Monitored by the World Bank, the money has now been disbursed through conditional cash transfers to 1.9mn of Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens.
Three years later, the US and the British Channel Island dependency of Jersey returned $311mn to the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund, managed by the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority. The first projects financed by the fund, expressways and bridges, are due to be completed later this year.
With stolen assets, the precise means by which institutions return such funds — whether they deliver them to the state, a government, an ad hoc fund or some other body — elicit endless discussion rather than action. We know corruption persists across Africa, as it does across the world. But we cannot afford to wait for unspecified “progress” to be achieved before this money is released.
Muhammadu Buhari is President of Federal Republic of Nigeria.
2023 BUDGET SPEECH
Budget of Fiscal Consolidation and Transition Delivered By His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, President, Federal Republic of Nigeria At the Joint Session of the National Assembly, Abuja. Friday, 7TH October, 2022
PROTOCOLS:
I am very pleased to be here today to present the 2023 Budget Proposals at this Joint Session of the National Assembly. This is the last time I will be laying the budget of the Federal Government of Nigeria before the National Assembly.
III. reforming the taxation of securities lending and real estate investment trusts to spur increased investments on our capital markets;
III. the Voluntary Assets and Income Declaration Scheme, 2017;
VII. the innovative Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme, 2019; and
VIII. the National Public Buildings Maintenance, 2022.
RECENT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS
REVIEW OF 2022 BUDGET IMPLEMENTATION
RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS
THEME AND PRIORITIES OF THE 2023 BUDGET
2023 BUDGET PARAMETERS AND FISCAL ASSUMPTIONS
2023 REVENUE ESTIMATES
PLANNED 2023 EXPENDITURE
FISCAL BALANCE
FINANCE BILL 2022
ENSURING FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY
BUDGET OF GOVERNMENT-OWNED ENTERPRISES
FINANCING INFRASTRUCTURE GAP
BUDGET PROCESS BILL 2022
HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT
WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT
FOOD PRICES
BOOSTING MANUFACTURING PERFORMANCE
SAFE SCHOOLS INITIATIVE
DEFENCE AND INTERNAL SECURITY
I thank you most sincerely for your attention. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
MAULUD: PRESIDENT BUHARI URGES MUSLIMS TO IMBIBE THE NOBLE VIRTUES OF PROPHET MUHAMMAD
President Muhammadu Buhari has urged Muslims to “practice the noble and shining virtues of the Prophet Muhammad” saying that “the best way to honour him is to follow his good examples.”
In his goodwill message to Muslims on the occasion of Maulud to celebrate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad, the President explained that “the prophet became famous for his life of humility, justice and fairness.”
According to President Buhari, “the Prophet attracted people to Islam through personal examples of honesty, trustworthiness, justice, patience and tolerance.”
He explained that the Prophet demonstrated “a remarkable life of patience under provocation and honoured treaties with non-Muslims for peaceful coexistence.”
President Buhari added that “honesty was one of Muhammad’s greatest virtues and every good Muslim should follow his examples.”
The President used the occasion to call on all Nigerians to join the government in on-going efforts to eradicate insecurity and corruption; to increase their respect for women, children and the less able; and to show love and understanding for one another.
He also urged politicians, in this season of elections, to avoid using expletives and cuss words, and to avoid the unwanted culture of demeaning and humiliating opponents.
The President promised again, that he will ensure free, fair and transparent elections in 2023.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 7, 2022
USING TECHNOLOGY, WE’LL TAP OUR SEABED RESOURCES, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI
Nigeria has strategic mineral resources in its seabed, which will be exploited through adequate deployment of technology, President Muhammadu Buhari has said.
The President spoke Friday at State House, Abuja, while playing host to Mr Michael Lodge, Secretary-General of the International Seabed Authority, who was attending a workshop on Africa Deep Sea Resources in Abuja.
He said resources would be deployed, and studies done, believing it would be worth the while.
The President also used the occasion to applaud the Nigerian Navy for its role in protecting the country’s maritime domain, urging it to “continue to guard us jealously.”
Mr Lodge thanked Nigeria for hosting the international workshop, and lauded the country for the leadership it provides on the African continent.
He encouraged the country to explore her deep seabed resources “to support the blue economy,” and pledged solidarity with Nigeria during his administration as the Secretary-General.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
October 7, 2022
FLOODING: PRESIDENT BUHARI MEETS WITH LEADERSHIP OF GOVERNORS’ FORUM, PLEDGES INTERVENTION
Governors under the auspices of Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) have been encouraged to meet with the Minister of Water Resources, who has “worked hard on dams and water resources in the country,” fashion out solutions, and then escalate their conclusions to the Federal Government, to alleviate the plight of people currently being ravaged by flood round the country.
President Muhammadu Buhari gave the counsel at State House, Abuja, Friday, while playing host to the outgoing Chairman of NGF, Dr Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, the incoming Interim Chairman, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal of Sokoto State, and the Interim Deputy Chairman, Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi State.
The Governors had told the President that lives have been lost, homes and farmlands washed away in States like Kogi, Yobe, Jigawa, and many others, and asked for Federal Government intervention in terms of special funding.
President Buhari said after the engagement with the relevant Minister, a report should be sent in, “and we will see what to do.”
Governor Fayemi, who exits office in about nine days, personally thanked the President for support to him as Ekiti State helmsman, and for the governors collectively.
“You always accorded us due regard. You accommodated us, and listened to our pleas. You were always there for us when we had challenges, either individually, or collectively. We owe you a debt of gratitude,” the outgoing NGF Chairman said.
Gov Tambuwal said the flooding creates a frightening scenario for food security, “and we need to plan ahead for dry season farming,” while Gov Bagudu counseled that it was not the time to squeeze credit for the agricultural sector because of the peculiar challenges.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
October 7, 2022
Adebola Williams Awarded Choiseul 100 Africa Laureate for the 4th Year in a Row; Listed Top 100 Young Business Leaders in Africa
Chairman of AW Networks and Co-Founder RED | For Africa, Adebola Williams has been named by Institut Choiseul, a Paris-based organisation dedicated to the analysis of contemporary strategic issues and international economic questions, as one of the Choiseul 100 Africa Laureates for the 4th consecutive year.
Choiseul 100 Africa is an annual list showcasing vibrant and innovative young leaders under 40 who continue to play a major role in Africa’s socio-economic development. The 2022 list tagged ‘Top 100 Young Business in Africa’ places a beaming spotlight on 100 of Africa’s most talented young leaders positively disrupting all sectors of the continent, displaying an enormous wealth of business savvy and intellectual prowess that will drive Africa towards a prosperous future.
“I am honoured to be selected in the #Choiseul100Africa 2022 ranking, and recognised as one of the drivers of socio-economic development on the continent,” said Adebola Williams. “I’m delighted to be recognised with other notable personalities leading the vanguard for a new Africa and inspiring the next generation to create positive impact that accelerates the growth of the continent across sectors.”
Adebola Williams who has been profiled by Forbes and CNN as the man who helped elect a trifecta of Presidents in Africa, is strategic counsel to several CEOs and HNIs across the continent. His recently launched media investment company, AW Networks has in the last 10 months invested in two major African films in the cinemas and on Amazon Prime, and currently working on others set for release in Q1 2023. His new book African Power Girls which chronicle the lives of great African women is a must read for young girls on the continent.
“Often people do not acknowledge the power media wields in driving the forces that shape our world. We clearly recognise its impact, that’s why it remains the cornerstone of our drive to inspire youth, enable businesses, and create jobs,” Williams concluded.
Choiseul 100 Africa is a annual study conducted independently by the Institut Choiseul to evaluate the work and impact of promising individuals within the period under review. The organisation carries out this study through its various experts and specialists on the continent, resulting in a list of powerful and influential individuals that are reshaping the African economy.
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About Adebola Williams
Adebola Williams is the Chairman, AW Network and Co-founder of RED | For Africa, the continent’s largest portfolio of youth-focused media brands including Red Media Africa, StateCraft Inc., The Future Awards Africa, and Y!/YNaija.com.
A pioneer at the intersection of media, democracy, and social change, Adebola has been profiled by Forbes and CNN as the man who helped elect a trifecta of Presidents in Africa.
He co-founded Enough is Enough (EiE), Nigeria’s foremost civic participation platform and a premier voice for young people on politics. He later resigned as the board chairman to steer the rebranding of the current Nigerian president, Muhammadu Buhari through a re-aligned national discourse and optimized media engagement, changing longstanding perceptions and swaying the elections.
Right after, he and his team went on to help Ghana’s opposition candidate Nana Akufo-Addo win the presidency on his third attempt, and also President Macky Sall of Senegal to extend his presidency into a second term.
His work in corporate marketing and communication across different sectors has earned him and Red Media Africa several awards including SABRE, LaPriga, Marketing Edge, Young Cannes and the C4F Marketing awards in Davos.
A Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum, Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu Fellow, Mandela Washington Fellow, British Council global change-maker, amongst other prestigious fellowships, Adebola is a recipient of the CNBC Young Business Leader of the Year award for West Africa and named as one of 100 Most Influential People of African Descent under the United Nations international decade for people of African descent. A social media sensation, he routinely engages a social media audience of over 360,000 people.
Adebola sits on boards of ZedCrest Capital as a Non. Executive Director, United Nations Generation Unlimited (GenU) as a Global Champion, awarded the Outstanding African Business Leader Awards in 2022 by African Leadership Magazine UK and recently named a Global Patron for Malaria No More UK.
PARAMOUNT CONSUMER PRODUCTS AND NICKELODEON ANNOUNCE LAUNCH OF GLOBAL OCEAN CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS: OPERATION SEA CHANGE
Multi-Year Campaign to Launch with Multiple Non-Profit and Consumer Products Partners
Paramount Consumer Products and Nickelodeon announced the launch of SpongeBob SquarePants: Operation Sea Change, a brand-new global ocean conservation and sustainability initiative. Through partnerships with several non-profit organisations, SpongeBob SquarePants: Operation Sea Change aims to help remove and divert five million pounds of ocean plastic over the next four years by funding cleanup projects. At the same time, Paramount Consumer Products will work with current SpongeBob SquarePants consumer products partners to drive more sustainable practices and reduce single-use plastic in products, and curate partnerships with new brands to create innovative product lines. Additionally, the initiative will engage millions of SpongeBob fans around the world with on-the-ground events and educational resources that connect them with ways to become a part of the movement and take action in their own communities.
“Since its debut almost 25-years ago, SpongeBob SquarePants has become globally beloved for its contagious optimism and irreverent humour, but at its core the series has always had an intrinsic connection to the sea leading us to launch SpongeBob SquarePants: Operation Sea Change to help protect the home of the very creatures that inspired Bikini Bottom,” said Veronica Hart, Executive Vice President, Global Franchise Planning, Paramount Consumer Products. “With this initiative not only are we funding change but reinventing how we do business by creating a connected global effort around sustainability, while also being afforded the opportunity to honor the legacy of the incomparable Stephen Hillenburg, Marine Biologist and SpongeBob SquarePants creator, who was so deeply committed to preserving our oceans and marine life.”
At launch, the program will mobilize a network of global non-profit partners that further the goals of SpongeBob SquarePants: Operation Sea Change. These efforts, which have been funded through grants from the SpongeBob SquarePants: Operation Sea Change Fund at Tides Foundation, aim to help protect the ocean from plastic pollution and biodiversity loss through on-the-ground clean-up events in cities around the world. Paramount Consumer Products will also work with licensing partners to launch SpongeBob branded products that feature zero or reduced single-use plastic and rally consumers to get active through education and information about conservation-focused organizations they can support.
Non-profit launch partners include:
Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore – The Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore, in collaboration with Maryland-based government, business and community partners, is dedicated to cleaning and beautifying Baltimore’s waterways. The SpongeBob SquarePants: Operation Sea Change Fund will support the Waterfront Partnership’s Healthy Harbor initiative to sponsor trash collection activities through 2023.
Coral Restoration Foundation – Headquartered in Key Largo, Florida, the Coral Restoration Foundation was founded in response to the wide-spread loss of the dominant coral species on Florida’s Coral Reef. Since 2007 they have been working to turn the tide for this critical ecosystem, and the SpongeBob SquarePants: Operation Sea Change Fund will support their coral restoration efforts through 2023.
Plastic Oceans International – This non-profit organization’s goal is to foster sustainable communities and to end plastic pollution worldwide. They operate with the belief that they can and must act locally to create change globally, which they do through their four pillars of education, activism, advocacy and science. The SpongeBob SquarePants: Operation Sea Change Fund will help fund plastic clean-up projects in Brazil, Philippines, Mexico, Cameroon and Germany.
Surfers Against Sewage – Surfers Against Sewage is a grassroots environmental charity that campaigns to protect the ocean and all it makes possible. It was created in 1990 by a group of Cornish surfers, fighting to clean up the sea that was making them sick. Now, this UK-based marine conservation charity campaigns on all that threatens the ocean – plastic pollution, climate emergency, industrial exploitation and water quality – taking action on the ground that triggers change from the top. The SpongeBob SquarePants: Operation Sea Change Fund will support the organization’s Million Mile Clean, the most ambitious clean campaign to date, mobilizing over 100,000 people to clean 1 million miles of blue, green and urban spaces in the UK annually.
WORK – This organization supports waste collectors who recycle plastic, helping them earn a dignified income, while diverting waste otherwise destined for oceans and landfills. The SpongeBob SquarePants: Operation Sea Change Fund will help fund responsible collection efforts in Haiti. Additionally, Paramount will collaborate with WORK to channel first mile ocean-bound plastic material into the licensed consumer products supply chain, contributing to a more circular economy while cleaning up the environment.
Below are Consumer Products partners launching in 2022 and early 2023:
AKUA – This New England-based company is on a mission to create a platform of delicious and nutritious products from a new and exciting form of food agriculture: regenerative ocean farming. AKUA and SpongeBob SquarePants: Operation Sea Change will be teaming up in 2023 to launch a branded kelp patty that will feature reduced plastic packaging.
Conscious Step – This Brooklyn, New York-based company designs and sells sustainably made socks, sweatshirts and candles that benefit leading non-profits around the world. Each item is uniquely designed and embroidered to raise awareness for the associated cause, with a portion of the proceeds being donated to provide a quantified change. This fall, a line of SpongeBob SquarePants branded apparel will launch, with a portion of proceeds to be donated to Oceana, a non-profit ocean conservation organization.
Munro Footwear Shoes – This Australia-based company designs and sells shoes for boys and girls. Launching in early 2023, Munro Shoes will roll out a SpongeBob SquarePants branded collection that uses reclaimed leather and features recycled packaging that uses no plastic. These will be launching Australia-wide in all Williams and Mathers stores.
Seaesta Surf – This sustainable beachwear brand for kids launched the Seaesta X SpongeBob collaboration earlier this summer and will be expanding the partnership and joining the SpongeBob SquarePants: Operation Sea Change movement in 2023. Details will be announced at a later date.
Waterlust – A purpose-driven apparel company that uses clothing to educate, inspire and support consumers in living a more environmentally responsible life. They will be launching a line of products featuring recycled fabrics made from post-consumer bottles. The collection will also have a donation to the Ocean Institute in California to support their K-12 marine science education program.
Additionally, the Nickelodeon brand will use the full power of its multimedia ecosystem to galvanize the SpongeBob SquarePants: Operation Sea Change movement across its social, digital and linear channels. Fans can also log onto www.SpongeBobOperationSeaChange.com for more information about the initiative and its partners.
In 2023, the initiative will expand to include: new partnerships and products, additional short-form content that will help educate fans on the ocean plastic crisis and on-the-ground clean-ups and activations that will allow fans to get involved. Further details will be announced at a later date.
Since its launch July 17, 1999, SpongeBob SquarePants has reigned as the most-watched animated series for 22 consecutive years, while generating a universe of beloved characters, pop culture catchphrases and memes, theatrical releases, consumer products, a Tony award-winning Broadway musical and a global fan base. SpongeBob SquarePants is one of the most widely distributed properties in Paramount International history, seen in more than 170 countries, translated in 29+ languages, and averaging more than 100 million total viewers every quarter. SpongeBob SquarePants was created by Stephen Hillenburg and produced by Nickelodeon in Burbank, Calif. The character-driven cartoon chronicles the nautical and sometimes nonsensical adventures of SpongeBob, an incurable optimist and earnest sea sponge, and his undersea friends.
Paramount Consumer Products oversees all licensing and merchandising for Paramount (Nasdaq: PARA, PARAA), a leading global media and entertainment company that creates premium content and experiences for audiences worldwide. Driven by iconic consumer brands, Paramount Consumer Products’ portfolio includes a diverse slate of brands and content from BET, CBS (including CBS Television Studios and CBS Television Distribution), Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, Paramount Pictures and Showtime. With properties spanning animation, live-action, preschool, youth and adult, Paramount Consumer Products is committed to creating the highest quality product for some of the world’s most beloved, iconic franchises. Additionally, Paramount Consumer Products oversees the online direct-to-consumer business for CBS and Showtime programming merchandise, as well as standalone branded ecommerce websites for Star Trek, SpongeBob, South Park, and MTV.
Key families in Okere-Urhobo on Monday took steps to foil the divisive and land grabbing plan of one Louis Okumagba.
They also urged the good people of Delta State and the general public to completely discountenance the false publication by Louis Okumagba.
‘’Louis Okumagba does not represent the interests of the families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu of Okere-Urhobo’’
Heads and members of the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo of Warri South spoke on prejudices of some local and foreign publishers on the land opposite Don Domingo College, Warri Monday morning.
Chief Gideon Okumagba, a representative of the three families, read the statement of the royal families aloud to newsmen.
The families accused Louis Okumagba of distortion and inciting fear in Delta State.
‘’The families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu collectively owned landed properties in Warri’’
The Okere-Urhobo leaders said the land was acquired by the defunct Bendel State Government.
‘’The families are represented by Heads of the Kindred family and are the original owners of the land until it was acquired by the then Bendel State Government. The families currently have their administrative office at No 60 Okumagba Avenue Warri where they meet frequently to deal with issues. on family lands and other related family matters’’
They offered an itemized and caustic indictment of Louis Okumagba’s behavior in Warri South.
‘’As one of the elders in the family, specifically as related to the false claims by Louis Okumagba, I am well abreast of the issues raised in that publication. The good people of Warri are not in any war or in a battle over the landed property opposite Don Domingo College, Warri, and it is very shameful that the said Louis is trying to incite tribal/ethnic battle in that publication’’.
They promised to file a libel suit against individuals and organizations publishing Louis Okumagba’s false narrative.
‘’It is not true that the Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, used officials of the Delta State Government to intimidate and arrest Louis Okumagba. To be candid, it was Chief Gideon Okumagba that reported his criminal extortion of money from developers to the Police Area Commander Office in Warri’’.
The statement emphasized how the matter was dragged to the office of the Inspector General of Police Abuja.
‘’While the case was being deliberated on in Abuja, Louis Okumagba jumped bail and hurriedly filed a fundamental Human Rights Application against me, the Inspector General of Police and Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan at Warri High Court just to shield himself from being prosecuted for his criminal act. I equally filed a Counter application in that case and at the end the Judgment was resolved in my favour while his Fundamental Human Rights Application was dismissed with cost. Louis has been a fugitive. Since that judgment, he has not been seen within Warri’’.
Particularly, the families accused Louis Okumagba of trying to sow discord amongst Deltans through falsehood.
‘’Louis Okumagba claimed that he has been in the forefront of the land in dispute is false and misrepresentation of facts. And the alleged grabbing of over 30 hectares of land by the Okowa Government led by High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is equally false. The land was acquired by the then Bendel state for public purposes. The Delta State government has since done the needful by releasing/returning parts of the land to the Olodi, Oki and lghogbadu families who are the rightful owners. 4.6 hectares of land was released to the family on the 26 day of June 1988 and another part of the unused land was released to the Olodi,. Oki and 1ghogbadu families on the 14 of January 2000. Also, the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families have an agreement with the Government of Delta State over the remaining parts of the land’’
The families told news men there was zero evidence for Louis Okumagba claims of land grabbing.
‘To be more specific, the remaining portion of the land was released to Seriviri Nigeria Limited wherein Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is one of the directors of that company and the said company also have an agreement with the families and half of the land was released to the families. Indeed, the three families benefited from the land including Louis Okumagba ’’.
They scolded Louis Okumagba for rendering a real disservice.
‘’There was never any consultation by Louis Okumagba with the well-known families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu before that Publication was made by him. It’s a futile attempt to incite the Urhobo and Itsekiri into a needless bickering. There is no dispute as far as the land in this narrative is concerned. The said Louis should avail himself to enable the police conclude their investigation in the crime levied against him. The land in question belongs to the Olodi, Oki and lghogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo and he should stop spreading false claims and division among the families and tribes in Delta State. If there are disputes in any land owned by these families, it is the heads and members of the family who will collectively decide to institute an action in court’’,
Last week, the families condemned the role of Chief Louis Okumagba in the 30 plots released to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State.
They described it as a negative development and a minus for peace and development in Delta State.
In a letter titled: ‘’Attempt / efforts to cause communal war, fanning embers of communal dispute, conduct likely to cause breach of peace and criminal defamation of characters of our clients; Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State, all committed by Mr. Louis Okumagba – a call to investigate the allegation herein, the families urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good office to investigate allegations against Louis Okumagba, so as to prevent a monumental communal war/crisis between Itsekiri and the Urhobo of Okere Urhobo Kingdom.
’’God forbid a repetition of what happened in 1997/98 in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom’’
Counsel to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo Kingdom, L O. Egboyi & CO said in the 1974/76, the then government acquired a part or portion of our client’s land for public purpose.
‘’In 2017, the Delta State government gave part of this acquired land to Messrs. Seriviri Nig. Ltd. for the purpose of partnership (Leisure Park) with the state government, covered by a certificate of Occupancy. Considering the size of the land given to Seriviri Nig. Ltd, for the partnership, it could not utilize the entire land. So, it entered into agreement with our client family, wherein, it released 30 plots thereof back to the family – our clients’’
The Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri are made up of the popular Okumagba family of Warri, Okere- Urhobo kingdom.
‘’Our clients are the owners of all the land in the entire Okere-Urhobo kingdom Warri. Certain Mr. Louis Okumagba who is the black sheep of the family started to foment trouble, disturbing and threatening Seriviri Nig. Ltd, with thugs and dangerous weapons which led to his arrest in 2019 to the Police Force Headquarters’, Abuja. After being granted bail by the police, the suspect (Mr. Louis Okumagba) rushed to file a fundamental Human Rights action against the Police, at the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri. The action stalled the prosecution of the suspect (Mr. Louis) by the Police’’.
The families said the suit of the suspect against the Police was dismissed by the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri, with a specific order of the Court directing the police to arrest and prosecute the suspect (Mr Louis Okumagba).
‘’While the Police were looking for the suspect for arrest and prosecution as directed by the Court, the same suspect went to social media (Opera news) to declare that “there will be looming danger of war/crisis between the Itsekiri and Urhobos”, thereby inciting, promoting and instigating communal war between the two peaceful co-existing communities of Itsekiri and Urhobo’’.
This incitement, according to the families, created several apprehensions in the minds of locals, which has affected the hitherto peace that reigned and pervaded the two communities.
‘’Furthermore, the suspect posted on the same social media that some named members of our clients namely, Chief Gideon Okumagba, Stanley Oki, Chief Victor Okumagba, Engr. Prince Ojuvwu Okumagba and others, sent assassins to his house to kill him, but he escaped by the whiskers. He confirmed that he had a one-on-one confrontation with the assassins, who confirmed the named members of our clients above, as the people who commissioned them to eliminate him’’.
The legal practitioners described Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu as bunch of responsible families
‘’Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families are known throughout Nigeria for their peaceful disposition. The named individuals are distinguished and respected members of the Okumagba family and the Nigeria Society. Our clients therefore take the allegation of hiring assassins by its members very seriously, especially in this era of Security challenges in the country’’.
The families also deplored the actions of Louis Okumagba and urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good offices to investigate the allegations and anyone found culpable to be brought to book.
‘’So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive. We assure you of our client’s co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition’’.
PRESS RELEASE
TINUBU’S LEADERSHIP ANTECEDENT VERIFIABLE, MARKETABLE – SANWO-OLU
…Advocacy Group Holds Talks, Targets Grassroots Voters For APC Victory In Lagos
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has endorsed a grassroots movement targeting two million votes in the State for the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming 2023 general elections.
Sanwo-Olu personally led members of his cabinet, including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, to a conference organised by Asiwaju Grassroots Talk (AGT), where the Governor drummed support for group’s political advocacy and its voter mobilisation strategy across local communities in Lagos.
The event with the theme: “Political Evangelism: Raising Active Voters Above 50 Percent”, was held at 10 Degrees Event Centre in Oregun, Ikeja, and had 5,000 mobilisers working with the group in attendance.
The group is mobilising for the electoral victory of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the presidential polls, while also working with APC for the continuity of progressive government in Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu said his endorsement of the AGT advocacy project stemmed from the proven ability of the group to influence and mobilise real voters, noting that AGT had a strong presence across communities in Lagos.
The Governor said Tinubu remained the most qualified and marketable candidate for the top job, pointing out that the APC’s presidential standard bearer possessed verifiable records in good governance and service delivery, which canvassers could use to sell him to voters.
He said: “We are ready to take the gospel out to the electorate and canvass for their support for the Tinubu presidency. Asiwaju has verifiable track records in good governance and service delivery, which canvassers can use to engage and win the support of potential voters. We must talk about the transformative leadership, progressive ideals and vision possessed by Asiwaju to take this country to another level of meaningful development.
“Tinubu is coming to bring hope, bring about change that will translate to real prosperity. He is coming to address the challenges facing the youth, women and the vulnerable in our country. His programmes will touch the lives of traders, artisans and those in search of legitimate means of livelihood. It is because of our strong belief in Asiwaju’s leadership that we are all coming together to endorse this grassroots movement to ensure Lagos is delivered for APC.
“With Tinubu in charge of the country, not only would Lagos get due attention, the Southwest and the entire nation would feel the impact of his progressive vision. The result of his leadership in Lagos is for everyone to see. There is no better candidate to lead the country from next year than Tinubu. All hands must be on deck to work and achieve this objective; we must show the opposition parties how we are better than them on election day.”
Sanwo-Olu dismissed the notion that Tinubu’s candidacy was to advance ethnic agenda, stressing that the APC presidential candidate belonged to the rank of the most detribalised Nigerians.
The Governor said the fulfillment of his promises to the electorate in Lagos would make the residents vote for continuity in the State, noting that his Government touched all parts of the State in projects and service delivery.
He urged AGT members not to be intimidated by the propaganda of the opposition in the course of engaging voters at the community level. He charged them to show commitment to deliver their pledge to the party.
“This movement should not be limited to the 5,000 mobilisers who are gathered for this event. You must show the commitment to deliver the highest votes which you have pledged. I believe you have the spread and ability to achieve it,” Sanwo-Olu said.
AGT Director-General, Dr. AbdulHakeem Tugbobo, said the group was formed in 2018 to drive community advocacy and educate voters at the grassroots level about Tinubu’s vision and political philosophy.
He said the group aligned itself with the progressive ideals of APC, given various development goals achieved by the party, especially in Lagos.
He said: “We are ready to complement the party’s campaign council and get many people to join the Tinubu-Shettima ticket and make it realisable. We have our tentacles spread across the State and we are targeting the 4,156 CDAs in Lagos to realise 2,000,000 votes from farmers, artisans and others for Tinubu to become the president.”
Lagos APC chairman, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, hailed members of the group for the initiative, saying the party faced an “important election” that would further strengthen it to deliver more dividends of good governance to Lagosians and Nigerians.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
06 OCTOBER 2022
PRESS RELEASE
WHY COWLSO IS INVESTING IN EDUCATION, WELFARE OF THE VULNERABLE, BY SANWO-OLU
…Says All Is Set For 22nd National Women’s Conference
…Aisha Buhari, Wike, Ganduje, Zulum, Others To Grace 2022 NWC
Lagos State First Lady and Chairman of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), Dr Ibjioke Sanwo-Olu on Thursday explained the rationale behind the massive investment of the Committee in education and welfare of the vulnerable.
Sanwo-Olu, who spoke at a Press Conference held at Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja to unveil activities for the 22nd National Women’s Conference (NWC) of COWLSO, said as a community-based gender organization, the Committee was established primarily to complement efforts of government officials in bringing about exponential development and generally improving the welfare of Lagosians.
According to her, “Since we came on board, we have worked in line with the founding vision of COWLSO to invest in the education of our children. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, we donated 5,000 transistor radios to support the education of children in the riverine communities.
“The donation was part of efforts to ensure that no child is left behind in the access to quality education in the state on account of the challenges thrown up by the pandemic, while we equally factored in electricity challenges as the radios are such that can function with batteries.
“We have equally invested in the welfare of vulnerable children and elders, particularly those in orphanages and elderly care homes across the five administrative divisions of the state namely Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island and Epe.
“As we speak, we are also constructing a senior secondary school in Ogombo Community, Ajah in collaboration with the Lagos State Special Committee on Rehabilitation of Public Schools (SCRPS). The school is the first public school with a ramp specifically designed to facilitate the ease of movement of physically challenged students within the school.”
She said COWLSO also holds quarterly seminars for market men and women on sanitation, security and safety, among other projects.
Speaking on activities lined up for the 2022 COWLSO NWC, the First Lady said as a purpose-driven international conference through which women are positively galvanized, the event will hold from October 18 to 20, 2022 at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, with the theme: “Spring Forth, Stand Out.”
Explaining the reason for the theme, she said: “In 2019 when we came on board, our theme was: “UNLEARN, LEARN AND RELEARN: 21ST CENTURY WOMEN’S T.H.E.M.E.S PERSPECTIVES/APPROACH.” In 2020, we discussed “EXPLORING THE POSSIBILITIES IN A NEW WORLD”. In 2021, our theme was “AWAKE!”, while this year, our theme is: “Spring Forth, Stand Out.”
“Haven extensively dealt with issues around awakening last year, what naturally follows an awakening is to emerge into something more beautiful and into something better. You emerge into a better version of yourself and keep pushing forward to make a positive difference. This is the message we are passing across to women this year.”
Aside from the main theme, other topics to be extensively discussed by seasoned facilitators and speakers, according to the First Lady, are: “Our Health: A Challenge and a call to reference; Mastering Performance Parenting in a Gen-z World; Insecurity: A threat to National Development; My Civic Responsibility: My Power; Smart Investment Options for the Forward Thinking Woman; Roles of women in Educational Development in Nigeria; Overcoming Adversity with Confidence; and Utilizing Technology to Manage Business and Market Changes,” among others.
“We have made adequate preparations to ensure that we have more plenary sessions this year to extensively deliberate on the highlighted topics and associated issues, while on Day 3 of the Conference, there will be a Recap and Communiqué to state the position of COWLSO on the Conference and developments in the nation, particularly as regarding women and children,” she said.
On the expected guests, she said Nigeria’s First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Aisha Muhammadu Buhari will serve as the Mother of the day and would declare the Conference Open, while His Excellency, Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State is the Special Guest of Honour at the Opening Ceremony.
She added that the Special Guest of Honour for the Gala Night is His Excellency, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State, while the Special Guest of Honour at the Closing Ceremony is His Excellency, Prof. Babagana Zulum, Governor of Borno State.
OLUBUKONLA NWONAH
DEPUTY DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS
OFFICE OF LAGOS STATE FIRST LADY
OCTOBER 6, 2022
PARAMOUNT AFRICA ANNOUNCES BET AFRICA CHANNEL NOW PERMANENTLY AVAILABLE TO DSTV FAMILY VIEWERS
THE HOME OF BLACK EXCELLENCE COMES TO DSTV FAMILY VIEWERS
As of 7 October 2022, Paramount Africa’s channel brand, BET Africa will be permanently available to all DStv Family viewers. This follows an initial announcement by the business, informing audiences that BET Africa (channel 129) would only be available to DStv Family viewers during the DStv open window, which commenced on 26 September 2022.
The move is a testament to Paramount Africa adhering to audience demands for new, relatable content that resonates with audiences and speaks to the impact and global channel currency of the BET brand.
In addition, the decision also implies that Paramount Africa will now be able to continue to execute its commitment to providing access to relevant stories and extending the authentic storytelling mantra by providing exclusive premium local and international content.
“As the home of black excellence, the BET Africa channel is synonymous with showcasing the best African and African American stories. We are excited to be extending our audience reach as this means the stories will reach new and more viewers. This is not only good news for viewers but for the black entertainment industry as well, putting our work in the spotlight and growing our industry.” said Monde Twala, Senior Vice President and General Manager Paramount Africa and Peer Lead, BET International.
“MultiChoice has embraced ‘Africa to the world’ and ‘the world to Africa’ as a business philosophy, as such we strive to continually review our packages so as to continually curate a quality viewing experience of both quality local and international and content. We are proud to expand the number of our customers that can enjoy the great BET experience and look forward to the continuation of a great partnership between the Paramount team and the MultiChoice Group.” said Georginah Machiridza, Executive Head: Content Strategy & 3rd Party Channels at MultiChoice Group.
BET Africa is the leading provider of black entertainment on the globe and provides a plethora of diverse programmes, including reality, entertainment, docu-series, and recently launched weekly original drama, Redemption, BET Africa’s biggest production of the year.
Viewers will also have access to a slate of new and exclusive international programming, including the premiere of the scripted anthology music series Tales: Every Song Has A Story, the new family drama Carl Weber’s: The Black Hampton, and the highly anticipated celebration of hip hop culture, the 2022 BET Hip Hop Awards, all premiering this October.
BET Africa will be available to DStv Family viewers from 7 October 2022 on channel 129 across all African countries excluding Ethiopia.
“One day, I am going to win the Grammys”, WhiteMoney shares on #WithChude
Reality TV star and Singer, WhiteMoney sits with Chude Jideonwo on #WithChude to discuss winning BBN in 2021, his music career and his ultimate goal of inevitably winning the Grammys.
On the show, WhiteMoney discussed not having a degree and how watching foreign films and observing people has helped him improve himself. “The biggest teacher any man can have is experience. The second teacher anyone can have is life, and the third is people, not even your parents. You need life, people and experience to become a better person in life. School won’t give you that experience you need. The school will give you theory; life will give you practical. For example, the highest educational qualification I have is O’ level, National Examination Council (NECO), that’s all I wrote. I didn’t write WAEC, JAMB or anything, but I still speak good English. I hate reading, but I love to listen, so I watch a lot of movies and emulate the way they talk and it impacted me. If I am to act the role of someone with an American accent, I have to watch five Black American movies. By the time I’m done with them, it automatically programs in my head against the shoot the next day. It helps fine-tune my English, and how to read contracts and sign them. I stopped at NECO because that was where the money stopped. It was my uncle who sent the 3,500 for the form. It was like two days before it closed that I got it, and I passed very well.
He also shared how poverty helps him remain tenacious in spite of rejections “The biggest motivation for me is poverty. If you love your situation and the way you are, then don’t work. But if you are tired of begging for handouts, not being recognized, or tired of Grammys. Poverty will motivate you to go out there and do something for yourself. So, poverty pushed me to audition four times in a row, and I won the fourth time.
On handling vicious feedback from the audience on his song, ‘Selense’, he shared, “it didn’t affect me like that, to be very honest. If you really watch the show, or if you ask people, they’ll tell you that WhiteMoney has zero impulses, my emotions are zero. If you talk, it hardly gets to me because once I do what I am satisfied with, any other thing is Jara. The thing is that the song that I drop if you give it to one of the A-List artists, it will get more buzz than what it is now, but of course, I was known for cooking in the Big Brother house, if it’s not cooking nobody wants to hear it. And I’m in a position where I have to constantly prove myself that I can do this and actually cook and be successful at both of them. But I won’t be the guy that gets old and regrets doing what he didn’t love. I’ll keep dropping it and I know that one day, White Money is going to get the Grammys.
“Even the big celebrities get criticized. In fact, the criticism I got for Selense, is not up to what I got for Na We We, the one I featured Zoro, but it helped the music to enter Apple’s chart in two days. Up till now, I am still promoting the song, and the comments on YouTube now are positive”, he added.
PRESS RELEASE
LAGOS STRIKES DEAL WITH PRIVATE FIRM TO MANAGE, OPERATE 32-METRIC TONS IMOTA RICE MILL
Ahead of the commissioning and operation of the 32-metric tons per hour Rice Mill in Imota, Ikorodu, Lagos State Government has handed over the management of the facility to private investor for efficient running.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday, presided over the ceremony where officials of the State Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with WACOT Rice Limited, a subsidiary of TGI Group.
The private firm is to provide operational support and manage the mill for nine months in the first instance through Joint Venture. The partnership is subject to renewal subsequently.
Sanwo-Olu is expected to hand over the rice mill in the next few months, after which it would commence commercial operation.
Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, said the privatisation of the rice mill’s operations was to ensure efficiency in the output of the facility, noting that the idea was initiated in 2019 when the State Government started the discussion with the firm.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture (Rice Initiative), Dr. Rotimi Fashola, said the Governor believed the mill would be optimised if it had a respectable private brand behind it and a technical support team that could provide intervention towards making the mill sustainable and functional to its capacity.
He said: “There is a need for the Government to put the rice mill on the path of sustainability and give it to a handling that will project quality. We sourced to have a partnership in rice production business that has a stable brand and eye for efficiency. This brings forth this Joint Venture and technical support agreement with WACOT.
“In Nigeria today, this is a brand consumers want to purchase in the market. We are delighted that we are able to bring WACOT to the table for technical support, managerial and quality assurance skills. The partnership agreement being signed today will be for nine months in the first instance and subsequently can be renewed. All i’s have been dotted and all t’s have been crossed.”
Group Managing Director of TGI Group, Rahul Savara, said Lagos Government found a great partner in the firm, pledging that the company would be deploying standard technology and services in managing the rice mill.
He said the private firm shared the Sanwo-Olu administration’s conviction to meet high demand for rice and make Lagos self-sufficient in rice production and processing.
“We are ready to work with Lagos State to make the facility run at its best. We will be deploying the best expertise, technique and training to make the Government proud of this investment,”
Savara said.
Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo, SAN, provided the legal instruments backing the MoU.
Other top management staff of TGI Group at the ceremony included the Group’s Executive Director, Jerome Shogbon, Company Secretary, Omowumi Fajemiroye, Head Corporate Communication, Rafiat Gawat, and representative of Banwo & Ighodalo Partner, Azeezah Muse-Sadiq.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
05 OCTOBER 2022
Access Bank to acquire 51% majority equity stake in Angola-based Finibanco S.A
Access Holdings Plc. has announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Access Bank Plc., has entered into a binding agreement with Montepio Holding SGPS S.A to acquire a 51% majority shareholding in Finibanco Angola S.A.
Finibanco Angola S.A. is a profitable, well-capitalised full-service commercial bank with over 20 branches and around US$300 million in total assets that has operated in Angola since 2008. The Transaction will be effected via the purchase of existing shares owned by Montepio, the holding company for Banco Montepio, one of Portugal’s well-established commercial banks.
The Angolan market is the 6th largest economy in Africa and the 7th largest country overall, with a vast and diversified natural resource base and a growing population representing a strong potential for the Bank’s growth aspiration.
The Transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals in Nigeria and Angola is expected to close in the first half of 2023 following fulfillment of customary conditions precedents. It will be consummated at 1.0x tangible book value less pre-agreed adjustments to be determined by a customary completion audit. Upon completion of the Transaction, the Bank is expected to increase its shareholding in Finibanco S.A and has reached certain conditional agreements in this regard.
Commenting on the transaction, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, Group Chief Executive Officer, Access Holdings Plc., said “At Access, our vision remains clear as ever and our determination to harness accretive opportunities within and outside Nigeria is our core strategic focus. Angola represents an opportunity for our shareholders to participate in what we believe will engender stronger value upside as Africa fully emerges. We remain committed to making these disciplined and well-structured investments towards creating a strong, holistic platform that will be competitive, diversified, and compelling for years to come.”
The Transaction furthers the Bank’s strategy to be Africa’s payment gateway to the world whilst working with other Africa-focused multilateral to provide robust and efficient payment platforms and ecosystems to serve the continent. The prospective operation is expected to contribute strongly to the Bank’s overall growth path and financial results over the long term.
PRESS RELEASE
LAGOS TEACHERS ENDORSE SANWO-OLU FOR SECOND TERM
…You’ve Made Teaching Rewarding For Us, ‘Cheerful’ Teachers Tell Governor
The event marking the World Teachers’ Day in Lagos State turned into a platform to share testimonies of the positive transformation recorded in State’s teaching service by the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Teachers cheerfully shared their experiences in the last three years, giving Sanwo-Olu a pass mark in raising the standards of education through investment in infrastructure and capacity building.
At the symposium organised by the Lagos wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) at the NUT Pavilion in Ikeja, Lagos teachers unanimously threw their weight behind Sanwo-Olu, endorsing the Governor’s re-election bid.
Comrade Hassan Akintoye, NUT Lagos chairman, who spoke on behalf of the teachers, said the Sanwo-Olu administration prioritised teachers’ welfare and committed unprecedented investment in education and teaching.
Akintoye said not only had the teaching environment been made more conducive for teachers, he noted that there had also been improvement in the performance of pupils in national examinations.
The NUT chief said the Governor met and fulfilled majority of demands of the teachers without any confrontation, thereby limiting the prospect of disagreement between NUT and the Government.
Lagos, he said, pioneered the creation of the Permanent Secretary/Tutor General position, which is the apex cadre in teaching career, and designated six slots for teachers across the six Education Districts in the State.
Akintoye added that Sanwo-Olu’s approval of career harmonisation in teaching service placed thousands of Lagos teachers on grade Level 17 – the highest level. This, he said, made Lagos the pace-setting State in the transformation of the teaching profession.
He said: “In Lagos, teachers have not had any major demands which the Government has not prioritised. It is only in Lagos teachers are promoted and get salaries of the new grade level before the promotion letters get to them. It is in Lagos that thousands of teachers are on Grade Level 17 when their colleagues in other states are either stagnant at Level 14 or demoted.
“On occasion of World Teachers’ Day in Lagos, it is about showing appreciation to the leadership of the State. We are using this opportunity to tell our Governor that we have a large number in the teaching service, and this has never been a burden to the system. Come February 2023, we will mobilise not only ourselves, but also our families and relatives to make the election work in your favour.”
NUT National President, Comrade Audu Titus Amba, sent a note of appreciation to Sanwo-Olu on behalf of Lagos teachers, stressing that Lagos Government had lifted the teaching profession and set enviable standards in the State.
Represented by Comrade Titi Adebanjo, NUT National Secretary, Amba said: “In some states, apart from the Governors being afraid to meet with teachers, Sanwo-Olu can walk confidently among teachers because he has raised not only the standards of teaching in Lagos, the Governor has also improved on the welfare package for teachers to make teaching rewarding.”
Sanwo-Olu described teachers as “important stakeholders” in moulding behaviour and creating a functional society. He said his administration’s efforts towards boosting teachers’ capacity through capacity building led to over 10,000 teachers benefiting from various initiatives to refresh their teaching skills.
The Governor said priorities were placed on career progression of teachers in Lagos, making their promotion an annual exercise while ensuring prompt implementation of benefits and earnings due to them.
He said: “Today, I join our resilient and outstanding teachers in celebrating a legacy of excellence, dedication and commitment built on the foundation of a unique profession that involves the promotion of the complex personal development of young minds in preparation for future roles as responsible citizens. No Society can deliver quality education without placing premium value on its teachers. While many only expect the Almighty God to reward teachers, it is our firm resolve that our teachers must receive and enjoy the rewards for their labour, first here on earth and then, later in Heaven.
“As a teacher-friendly Government, we developed various initiatives to enhance teaching and further motivate our teachers. Our commitment to increasing the capacity of our teaching staff is visible through local and international training. Over 10,000 teachers have been exposed to various training programmes to hone and refresh their teaching skills. To ensure that we don’t lack teachers in any subjects, we introduced an Exit-Replacement Policy, which ensures prompt recruitment of qualified teachers to replace the ones that retire. This has created employment for over 6, 000 qualified teachers in the last three years.”
Sanwo-Olu urged teachers to always uphold the ethics of their profession and continue to show uncommon sense of responsibility and greater commitment to duty.
He pledged his administration would continue to accord priority to investment in education, while also improving the capacity and welfare of teaching personnel. The Governor said Lagos schools would further become more ICT-compliant, as he promised to expose teachers to international best practices.
“I urge you not to relent in your effort to impart quality knowledge in our children. You are the diamonds set in gold rings for this noble profession. As partners, we will appreciate your continued commitment and support in achieving an effective and efficient education system for the benefit of our dear citizens,” the Governor said.
In a show of appreciation, the teachers honoured Sanwo-Olu with an Education-friendly Award.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
05 OCTOBER 2022
Run for the Coal City: Amstel Malta Ultra rewards winners with cash prizes
Winners of the just-concluded ‘Run for the Coal City’- the 20km Ultra marathon race organized by Amstel Malta Ultra, in conjunction with Enugu State Ministry of sports have been rewarded with cash prizes.
Held on Saturday, October 1 2022, the Ultra marathon kicked off by 7 am after registration.
Flagging off the Ultra marathon, Honorable Commissioner for Youths and sports, Enugu state, Hon. Manfred Nzekwe, welcomed all participants and urged them to have fun and run for more than the prize. According to him, the essence of the marathon is to support healthy living and fitness.
Participants commenced at Okpara square, Enugu and covered the mapped-out route spanning eleven vantage points from Okpara square to the Nnamdi Azikiwe stadium gate. The participants were given color-coded wristbands at every point to ensure that they followed the mapped route exactly.
Finishing first, Chinecherem Kingsley Onyia, breasted the tape and won the marathon, as well as the grand prize of 500,000 naira for the male category, Okechukwu Donatus and Egu Kenechi, followed closely, winning 250,000 and 150,000 naira respectively.
For the female categories, 20-year-old, Affigbo Esther from Lagos state came first place, followed by 35-year-old Helen Mammah from Abuja and 14-year-old Patience Joseph, from Imo state, winning 500,000, 250,000 and 150,000 naira respectively.
Expressing joy, the winner of the male category, Chinecherem Kingsley Onyia said “I am so happy and excited that I got to compete and win. I am especially grateful to Amstel Malta Ultra and the Enugu state government for organizing this competition.”
Also, expressing her delight, winner of the female category, Affigbo Esther, said, “I feel great, coming first place for the females in this marathon. I am grateful to Amstel Malta Ultra for organizing this competition as it is a great way to help the youths.”
“This is the beginning of new things for the people of Enugu,” said Chidi Egwu, Senior Marketing Manager, Amstel Malta, while speaking on the success of the event. “Amstel Malta is a brand that encourages people to choose the best way to live and will continue to support the good people of Enugu state in their journey to a healthy and better living.”
Further commenting on the turnout of the event he said, “I am very impressed with the turnout, seeing lots of very promising talents both in the male and female category. It was a fantastic outing, the first for Amstel Malta in Enugu.”
In addition to the prizes won by the first three finishers in both categories, participants that came in 4th to 20th place in the marathon in the male and female categories were also rewarded with 10,000 naira each.
The Ultra Marathon race is the second event in the 3-week long fitness lineup of activities scheduled to be held between September 24 to October 8 in the coal city.
Royal families in Okere-Urhobo have condemned the role of Chief Louis Okumagba in the 30 plots released by the Delta State government to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State.
They described it as a negative development and a minus for peace and development in Delta State.
In a letter titled: ‘’Attempt / efforts to cause communal war, fanning the embers of communal dispute, conduct likely to cause breach of peace and criminal defamation of characters of our clients; Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State, all committed by Mr. Louis Okumagba – a call to investigate the allegation herein, the families urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good office to investigate allegations against Louis Okumagba, so as to prevent a monumental communal war/crisis between Itsekiri and the Urhobo of Okere Urhobo Kingdom.
’’God forbid a repetition of what happened in 1997/98 in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom’’
Counsel to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo Kingdom, L O. Egboyi & CO said in the 1974/76, the then government of Mid-Western Nigeria acquired a part or portion of our client’s land for public purpose.
‘’In 2017, the Delta State government gave part of this acquired land to Messrs. Seriviri Nig. Ltd. for the purpose of partnership (Leisure Park) with the state government, covered by a certificate of Occupancy. Considering the size of the land given to Seriviri Nig. Ltd, for the partnership, it could not utilize the entire land. So, it entered into agreement with our client family, wherein, it released 30 plots thereof back to the family – our clients’’
The Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri are made up of the popular Okumagba family of Warri, Okere- Urhobo kingdom.
‘’Our clients are the owners of all the land in the entire Okere-Urhobo kingdom Warri. Certain Mr. Louis Okumagba who is the black sheep of the family started to foment trouble, disturbing and threatening Seriviri Nig. Ltd, with thugs and dangerous weapons which led to his arrest in 2019 to the Police Force Headquarters’, Abuja. After being granted bail by the police, the suspect (Mr. Louis Okumagba) rushed to file a fundamental Human Rights action against the Police, at the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri. The action stalled the prosecution of the suspect (Mr. Louis) by the Police’’.
The families said the suit of the suspect against the Police was dismissed by the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri, with a specific order of the Court directing the police to arrest and prosecute the suspect (Mr Louis Okumagba).
‘’While the Police were looking for the suspect for arrest and prosecution as directed by the Court, the same suspect went to social media (Opera news) to declare that “there will be looming danger of war/crisis between the Itsekiri and Urhobos”, thereby inciting, promoting and instigating communal war between the two peaceful co-existing communities of Itsekiri and Urhobo’’.
This incitement, according to the families, created several apprehensions in the minds of locals, which has affected the hitherto peace that reigned and pervaded the two communities.
‘’Furthermore, the suspect posted on the same social media that some named members of our clients namely, Chief Gideon Okumagba, Stanley Oki, Chief Victor Okumagba, Engr. Prince Ojuvwu Okumagba and others, sent assassins to his house to kill him, but he escaped by the whiskers. He confirmed that he had a one-on-one confrontation with the assassins, who confirmed the named members of our clients above, as the people who commissioned them to eliminate him’’.
The legal practitioners described Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu as bunch of responsible families
‘’Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families are known throughout Nigeria for their peaceful disposition. The named individuals are distinguished and respected members of the Okumagba family and the Nigeria Society. Our clients therefore take the allegation of hiring assassins by its members very seriously, especially in this era of Security challenges in the country’’.
The families also deplored the actions of Louis Okumagba and urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good offices to investigate the allegations and anyone found culpable to be brought to book.
‘’So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive. We assure you of our client’s co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition’’.
……………………………………………………
Legal Practitioner, Corporate & Property Consultants
No 9, Effurun / Sapele Road
Opposite High Court Junction,
Effurun .
TEL: 08035759764
Email: luckyegbuyi@ gmail.com
Our Ref: LOE/IGP/COM/BREA/OKUMAGBA/1/22 Your Ref……………
THE INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE,
NIGERIAN POLICE FORCE
EDET LEWIS HOUSE
ABUJA.
Sir.
RE: ATTEMPT / EFFORTS TO CAUSE COMMUNAL WAR , FANNING THE EMBERS OF COMMUNAL DISPUTE, CONDUCT LIKELY TO CAUSE BREACH OF PEACE AND CRIMINAL DEFAMATION OF CHARACTERS OF OUR CLIENT ; OLODI, OKI AND IGHOGBADU FAMILIES OF WARRI IN THE OKERE – URHOBO KINGDOM OF DELTA STATE, ALL COMMITTED BY MR. LOUIS OKUMAGBA – A CALL TO INVESTIGATE THE ALLEGATION HEREIN
We are counsel to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo Kingdom, herein called our Clients.
The Olodi , Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri, make up the popular Okumagba family of Warri , Okere- Urhobo kingdom.
Our clients are the owners of all the land in the entire Okere-Urhobo kingdom Warri.
In 1974/76, the then government of Mid-Western Nigeria acquired a part or portion of our Client’s land for public purpose.
In 2017, the Delta State government gave part of this acquired land to Messrs. Seriviri Nig. Ltd. for the purpose of partnership (Leisure Park) with the state government, covered by a certificate of Occupancy. Considering the size of the land given to Seriviri Nig. Ltd, for the partnership, it could not utilize the entire land. So it entered into agreement with our Clients family, wherein, it released 30 plots thereof back to the family – our clients
Certain Mr. Louis Okumagba who is the black sheep of the family started to foment trouble, disturbing and threatening Seriviri Nig. Ltd, with thuggery and dangerous weapons which led to his arrest in 2019 to the Police Force Head Quarters, Abuja. After being granted bail by the police, the suspect (Mr. Louis Okumagba) rushed to file a fundamental Human Right action against the Police, at the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri. That action stalled the prosecution of the suspect (Mr. Louis) by the Police.
We wish to inform you that suit, of the suspect against the Police, has been dismissed by the Delta State High Court, Sitting in Warri, with a specific order of the Court directing the police to arrest and prosecute the suspect (Mr Louis Okumagba). A copy of the enrolled order is herein annexed as annexure as Annexure A.
While the Police were looking for the suspect for arrest and prosecution as directed by the Court, the same suspect went to social media (Opera news) to declare that “there will be looming danger of war/crisis between the Itsekiri and Urhobos”, thereby inciting, promoting and instigating communal war between the two peaceful co-existing communities of Itsekiri and Urhobo.
This incitement has created several apprehension in the minds of locals, which apprehension has affected the hitherto peace that reigned and pervaded the two communities.
Furthermore, the suspect posted on the same social media that some named members of our Clients namely; Chief Gideon Okumagba, Stanley Oki, Chief Victor Okumagba, Engr. Prince Ojuvwu Okumagba and others, sent assassins to his house to kill him, but that he escaped by the whiskers. He confirmed that he had one on one confrontation with the assassins, who confirmed the named members of our Clients above, as the people who commissioned them to eliminate him.
Our Clients are bunch of responsible families known throughout Nigeria for their peaceful disposition. The named individuals are distinguished and respected members of the Okumagba family and the Nigeria Society.
Our Client therefore takes the allegation of hiring of assassins by its members very serious, especially in this era of Security challenges in the country.
It is against the background of the foregoing that we have the instruction of our Clients to petition you to use your good office to investigate these allegations against the suspect, so as to prevent a monumental communal war/crisis between Itsekiris and the Urhobos of Okere Urhobo Kingdom. God forbid a repetition of what happened in 1997/98 in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom.
So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive.
We therefore urge you to use your good offices to investigate these allegations of our Client and cause anyone found culpable to be brought to book.
We assure you of our clients co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition.
Yours faithfully
L.O. EGBOYI ESQ
CC;
The Head:
Olodi, Oki and Ighogbudu families,
Of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, Warri
EMAIL EDITORS:
………………………………………………
CALL EDITORS:
08036977194
08038565006
……………………………………………………..
PRESIDENT BUHARI INAUGURATES, SETS AGENDA FOR NATIONAL COUNCIL ON CLIMATE CHANGE
President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday in Abuja charged the National Council on Climate Change to formulate appropriate policies toward achieving green growth and sustainable economic development for Nigeria.
Inaugurating the Council before the commencement of the Federal Executive Council meeting, the President said it marked the commencement of the implementation of the Climate Change Act 2021 and a new chapter in the renewed response to climate change in the country.
The President also directed the Attorney General and Minister of Justice in conjunction with the Minister of Environment to initiate appropriate amendments of ”noticeable implementation challenges” inherent in the Act.
Highlighting the losses and damages caused by the recent increasing floods in several parts of the country as well in Pakistan, Bangladesh and other parts of East and Southern Africa, the President described climate change as one of the biggest challenges facing humanity.
”It [Climate Change] is complex and dynamic; and requires multidimensional and multi-sectoral initiatives to address its impacts and avert its rapid advance.
”Updated data show increases in sea level rise, heat waves, wild fires, floods, desertification, drying wetlands and many more disruptive climate occurrences.
”The latest Intergovernmental Panel on climate change report warns that rising Green House Gas emissions could soon outstrip the ability of communities to adapt, and the window for taking decisive steps needed to spare our planet from the gravest impacts of climate change is rapidly narrowing.
”We cannot ignore what is happening in our local environment. The increasing re-occurrence of floods in several parts of the country is a wakeup call,” he said, lamenting the loss of lives, damage and destruction of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, schools and agricultural production.
President Buhari, therefore, reiterated the determination of his Administration to strengthen national response to climate change and accelerate the implementation of decisive actions to reduce its impacts on the people and economy.
He reaffirmed that Nigeria is a party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which is an established international treaty to combat “dangerous human interference with the climate system”, in part by stabilizing Green House Gas concentrations in the atmosphere.
”It is against this background that in November 2021, after COP 26 in Glasgow, I signed the Nigeria Climate Change Act despite noticeable implementation challenges inherent in the Act, to set the framework for mainstreaming climate change action, carbon budgeting and the establishment of the National Council on Climate Change.
”The council is tasked with the responsibility of formulating appropriate policies and other mechanisms for achieving low Green House Gas emissions, including green growth and sustainable economic development for Nigeria.
”In a clear demonstration of our commitments as enshrined in our Nationally Determined Contributions and the Net Zero-Target by 2060, I also approved, on 25th July 2022, the appointment of the Director General and Secretary for the National Council on Climate Change.
”It is imperative therefore that those lapses earlier alluded to – which includes the establishment of states and Zonal offices creating a huge and costly bureaucracy is not acceptable. The Act also takes out the Commissioners of Environments from the states as members of Council, it also did not make transitional provisions capturing the work of the Inter-ministerial Working Group.
”This group was responsible for Energy Transition, the supervisory oversight of the Ministry of Environment and the establishment of an Executive Management structure at the secretariat level to support the DG in running the Council Secretariat.
”Accordingly, I hereby direct the Attorney General and Minister of Justice in conjunction with the Minister of Environment to initiate the appropriate amendment to reflect these observations.”
Ahead of COP27 in Sharm El Shiekh, Egypt, the President expressed optimism that the National Council on Climate Change would harmonise all issues relating to Climate Change, Energy Transition Plan, Emissions Trading Scheme and the Carbon Trading Framework, in line with its mandate under the Act, so that Nigeria can have a robust and impactful outing that captures Nigeria’s Climate Change priorities.
He said the composition of the council is a reflection of the magnitude of the problem and the seriousness of our response, adding that it comprises the highest level of governance and a representation of all key sectors of the economy.’
President Buhari also used the occasion to thank Vice President Yemi Osinbajo for heading Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, presiding over the global launch of the plan and initiating its marketing by engaging key stakeholders in the United States.
He urged the Council to consolidate on these first steps and ensure a sustained marketing of the plan.
Mohammed Abdullahi, the Minister of Environment, thanked the President for ”walking the talk” on climate change at the international, regional and national level, demonstrating immense leadership towards Nigeria’s quest for net-zero by 2060.
The Council is chaired by the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, with the Vice President as Vice Chairman. The Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, is also a member.
Other members of the Council are the Ministers responsible for Environment; Petroleum Resources; Budget and National Planning; Justice; Mines and Steel Development; Finance; Agriculture and Rural Development; Power; Women Affairs; Transportation; and Water Resources.
The Governor of Central Bank; the National Security Adviser; President of Association Local Governments of Nigeria; a representative of the private sector on climate change or environmental related matters (representative of National Conservation Foundation); a representative of National Council on Women Societies; a representative of National Youth Congress, and a representative of the Civil Society Organisation are also members of the Council
The Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change, Dr Salisu Dahiru, will serve as Secretary.
After the inauguration, the Federal Executive Council observed a minute silence in honour of Chief Ayodele Ogunlade, a former Minister of National Planning, under former Head of State, Sani Abacha, who died on Tuesday aged 88.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 28, 2022
PRESS STATEMENT
GOV AKEREDOLU RESOLVE IS TO SPARE NO EFFORT IN PROTECTING THE PEOPLE
The reasons adduced by Garba Shehu in his Press statement for the continued refusal to approve of the use of sophisticated weapons by state security outfits can no longer be plausible in the face of increasing security challenges being faced by the people.
The assertion of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity on the use of automatic weapons by State Security outfits betrays the current realities across the country. His attempt to justify the use of AK47 by the Vigilantes of Katsina State for training stands logic on it head.
The report by the TVC News that went viral showed the Kastina State Vigilantee training with AK47. This is the same weapon which approval has vehemently been refused for the use of Amotekun Corps and other State Security Outfits.
The questions Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, asks are:
iii. Were the guns returned to the armoury after use?
It is rather suspicious that Garba Shehu elected himself as the spokesperson for the Kastina State government. Whereas, the Katsina State has not come out openly to deny the statement of Governor Akeredolu on the use of AK47 by
Vigilantes of Katsina State during training.
Governor Akeredolu has reiterated that State Security outfits backed by law whether in the Western Nigeria, Katsina, Borno, Benue or any Northern State must have access to the same sophisticated weapons that the criminals have. It time to face down these enemies of the people.
It is illogical to continue to fight hardened marauders who bear sophisticated weaponry to kidnap and maim our people with bare hands. We cannot fight armed enemies of the people with our bare hands.
It is our firm belief that the government has a fundamental duty to protect the people. It is a task that must be accomplished without excuse.
Governor Akeredolu is determined to spare no efforts in protecting the people. He has vowed to explore every available legal and constitutional means to secure the state and its people.
The Southern Nigeria Governors Forum has called for the establishment of State Police. The 19 Northern State Governors and Northern Traditional Rulers Council have also supported the call for State Police.
The call by the sub-national should be heeded and change effected where necessary.
Every Governor sworn to an oath to protect the state and the people. The sub-national must be allowed to put in place security forces as a counter-balancing force to face these marauders who have unchecked access to sophisticated weapons.
It is high time we tackled these conflict entrepreneurs and restore the confidence of the people. We can not do the same thing time and again and expect different result.
Governor Akeredolu is irrevocably committed to the security of the people, particularly his state. He will continue to speak up in defense of the people. He is very much committed to the realization of constitutional amendment to reflect the current realities.
Signed:
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 28, 2022.
Communities in Niger Delta live in depressing conditions—SERAP
A new report by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has revealed how “communities in the Niger Delta continue to live in depressing and deplorable conditions, despite the fact that the wealth derived from these areas is the main economic mainstay for the country.”
According to the report, “The communities in the Niger Delta remain the poorest in the country.”
The 82 pages report launched today at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, is titled: ‘We Are All Vulnerable Here’: How Lack of Transparency and Accountability is Fuelling Human Rights Violations in the Niger Delta.
The report presented to the media by Dr. Olubunmi Afinowi, Faculty of Law of the University of Lagos, discloses that “The region remains deeply in the grips of squalor, poverty, and environmental degradation.”
The report shows that, “Corruption contributes to poverty and consequential suffering of many people in the Niger Delta. The right of the people to a clean, safe and healthy environment is routinely violated and abused by the government and oil companies.”
According to the report, “Extensive social, economic, and environmental degeneration has largely affected the lifestyles and wellbeing of the people of the Niger Delta. Also apparent is the continued disregard and abuse of the human rights of the people of the region.”
Femi Falana, SAN said at the report launch, “The management of the Niger Delta Development Commission by interim administrators is illegal. The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami SAN should advise President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently reconstitute the NDDC board of directors.”
Falana said, “Since the appointment of interim administrators is unknown to the NDDC Act, all contracts awarded by them are illegal and liable to be set aside.”
Falana also called on “the Federal Government to release the report of the Forensic auditing of the NDDC to enable the oil producing communities to demand accountability from many contractors who collected huge funds and abandoned development projects in the Niger Delta region.”
Among the people who attended the report launch are: Speaker of Cross Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon John Etim; the Chairman of the ICPC, represented by Dr Grace Chinda; and the Executive Secretary of NEITI, represented by Kareem Lamidi, team lead advocacy for NEITI.
The report launch was also attended by Dina Sabi, Second Secretary of the Embassy of the Netherlands in Nigeria; the Director-General, Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), represented by Mr. Egbe Ekpe; and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, represented by Barrister Raji Rasaki.
Others are: High Chief Eric Barisa; Madam Florence Kayemba, Stakeholder Democracy Network; the Executive Secretary, NHRC, represented by Mr. Saliu Musa; representatives of communities from the Niger Delta; and the members of the media.
All the participants expressed commitment to ensure the full implementation of the recommendations contained in the report.
The research for the report was conducted under the Niger Delta project supported by the Ford Foundation.
The report, read in part: “While the oil and gas upstream operations span the entire Niger Delta region, the empirical study in this research focuses on the Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers states.”
“The doctrinal study, on the other hand, is more encompassing and examines the challenges and adverse impacts of the oil and gas industries in the host communities and the government’s response mechanisms through the various regulatory and institutional frameworks.”
“The relevant monitoring agencies have not effectively carried out their duties and functions and this has led to a continued disregard for the rights of the people and the need to protect the environment.”
“Corruption is a major factor in the continued degradation in the region. There is a lack of an effective governance and feedback framework to foster interactions between regulators, companies, and communities. This implies a lack of transparency and accountability from the companies and the government to the people.”
“The oil and gas companies receive minimal government monitoring in the conduct of their activities; more troubling is the prevalence of oil theft and illegal mining, and refining of crude oil. Such illegal activities make the region crime prone and increase the vulnerability of the inhabitants of the communities.”
“The communities are continually exposed to food insecurity and health risks. Most of their communal lands, land and water resources have been lost or continually threatened by degradation and pollution.”
“A lot of information about the oil and gas companies, their activities, environmental audits and other relevant information are not available to the public. Such information is often shrouded in secrecy, and where made available, is limited, unclear and provides little or no actual information.”
“Marginalization of women, the aged, the youths and other vulnerable members of the communities, such as persons with disabilities is rife. This marginalization also has far-reaching implications for the protection of the socio-economic rights of the inhabitants of the communities.”
“President Muhammadu Buhari should publicly recognize and re-affirm that every Nigerian citizen, including oil producing communities, is entitled to economic and social rights, and take steps to ensure constitutional recognition of these rights as legally enforceable human rights.”
“President Muhammadu Buhari should immediately instruct the Ministry of Niger Delta Humanitarian Affairs and other government agencies overseeing the NDDC to immediately publish the forensic report on NDDC conducted in 2021.”
“The leadership of the National Assembly should ensure that the relevant committees collaborate to initiate independent public enquiries and fact-finding on how public funds have been spent by MDAs to mitigate the socio-economic impact of environmental pollution in oil producing communities.”
“The leadership of the National Assembly should make public the findings of any such investigations by the relevant parliamentary committees on the use of public funds by MDAs to mitigate the socio-economic impact of environmental pollution in oil producing communities.”
“The leadership of the National Assembly should make public all reports of previous investigations into allegations of corruption in relevant MDAs concerned with the management of issues relating to the impact of environmental pollution in oil producing communities and send such reports to anti-corruption agencies.”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
28/9/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES MBS ON HIS APPOINTMENT AS SAUDI PM, PRAYS FOR KING SALMAN’S HEALTH
President Muhammadu Buhari Wednesday extended his congratulations to Prince Mohammed Bin Salman (MBS), the newly appointed Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
A letter personally signed by the President welcomed the appointment which is combined with the position of Defence Minister, the first ever in the history of the Kingdom.
President Buhari said the government and the people of Nigeria looked forward to working with him to further deepen and expand excellent bilateral relations.
The President expressed confidence that with the dynamic and visionary leadership of the government by the Prime Minister under the guidance of his father, ruler of the Kingdom and Custodian of the two Holy Mosques, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz, the comprehensive strategic partnership of our two states will continue to blossom.
In wishing Prime Minister Muhammad a successful tenure in office, President Buhari prayed to Allah to increase the health and wisdom of King Salman.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 28, 2022
PRESS RELEASE
LAGOS’ TRANSFORMATION JOURNEY WILL NOT BE COMPLETE WITHOUT WOMEN – SANWO-OLU
An account of Lagos State’s journey to a cosmopolitan society would not be fully told without chronicling the contributions made by women to the cultural growth and socio-economic transformation of the State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said on Tuesday.
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the roles played by women in the transformation of Lagos at a forum tagged “WAPA Connect”, organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation at Lagos Continental Hotel with the theme: “The Emerging Total Woman”.
Lagos, the Governor said, presents a unique social structure distinct from other parts, given the unique influence of women in positions of authority. Their impacts, Sanwo-Olu said, have elevated the status of the State to a society where women take full pride.
The forum brought women achievers in the public and private sectors together for networking and to share experiences on contemporary issues critical to enable women achieve their full potential.
Sanwo-Olu said the event’s theme was to address the changing dynamics driven by the new thinking of the 21st century, as well as preparing women for contemporary challenges they needed to overcome.
The Governor said the conference was initiated in pursuance of his administration’s avowed commitment to the policy of inclusiveness and emancipation of women.
He said: “Under the current democratic dispensation, we have seen how women have distinguished themselves with enviable records in public service; as heads of public agencies, Permanent Secretaries, Judges and Commissioners. They have given Lagos its unique status and played vital roles in transforming the State into a cosmopolitan society. Without women, the story of Lagos greatness cannot be told. This is a testimony that there is something we are getting right by putting women in the positions of authority.
“There is no gainsaying that empowered women have achieved different levels of success against all odds in various areas of endeavours. The real issue that must be of serious concern to us is, how do we support, inspire and encourage young emerging women to arrive at their destination against all odds? It is important that we accept this responsibility to guarantee a better future in a socio-economic ecosystem that is increasingly becoming more competitive.”
Sanwo-Olu said Lagos had been pulling down barriers of inequality against the women, initiating policies to make the State become a society where women needed no permission before taking their rightful positions as progress partners.
The State Government, he said, had demonstrated its commitment in the appointment of women as key drivers of public policies and programmes.
The Governor disclosed that women make up 65 percent of Permanent Secretaries in the civil service, 60 percent of judges appointed and 50 per cent of public agencies’ heads.
He said: “Our administration has done so much to create opportunities for women, while also promoting gender equality through the initiatives and programmes being implemented by relevant government agencies, particularly the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. I assure you that we will not rest on our oars, as there is still much to be done to support our women in many areas.”
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Dada, said women’s roles in shaping the society across social, economic and political levels were vital, noting that empowerment of women remained pertinent for the achievement of United Nations’ 2030 agenda on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
She said millions of women across the country had endured lives of abject poverty, because of the economic inequality and lack of requisite skills to survive in a modernised economy.
Giving women improved access to knowledge and training, the Commissioner said the impacts would be significant in the society in terms of economic growth and social development.
“It is an established fact that the economic activities by women often times constitute the backbone of the economy. This conference is aimed at offering the practicable template for strategic thinking towards gearing up our women to evaluate their rights to economic resources, and expand their access to sexual and reproductive well-being, and become viable tools for socio- economic growth of Lagos.”
First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said the prevailing economic situation posed serious challenges to many women. She called for more socio-economic opportunities for women.
She said: “Bringing more women out of the prevailing socio-economic situations will give them more freedom to improve their livelihoods and contribute their quota towards growth of our State. This would place Lagos on equal pedestal with societies where women flourish.”
The conference featured a panel of discussions on topical issues critical to solving challenges women are facing in contemporary time.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
27 SEPTEMBER 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS FORMER MINISTER OF NATIONAL PLANNING, CHIEF AYODELE OGUNLADE
President Muhammadu Buhari condoles with family of former Minister of National Planning, Chief Ayodele Ogunlade, urging friends and close associates to find solace in the courage that the elder statesman brought to life.
President Buhari affirms that Ogunlade’s rise from a primary and secondary school teacher, Senior Producer in Western Nigeria Television and Broadcasting Services, Permanent Secretary, Minister of Information and Culture, and foremost industrialist typifies resilience that should be celebrated and emulated.
The President notes the warm heartedness, positive outlook and broad vision of the former minister, who shared his success skills with many, and extended his wisdom to both private and public institutions, leaving lasting imprint on Nigeria’s development over many years.
As the former journalist, public servant and industrialist begins his final journey, President Buhari believes his investments of love and goodwill will continue to inspire and modify lives, particularly the overwhelming influence in community development, through educational and health schemes.
The President prays that God will comfort Ogunlade’s family and grant him eternal rest.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 28, 2022
APC will win 2023 presidential poll convincingly – Ndoma-Egba
Former Senate Leader and ex-Chairman of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Distinguished Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, SAN, has said that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) will cruise to a convincing win over his opponents in the 2023 presidential election.
Ndoma-Egba, an influential politician who represented the people of Cross River Central Senatorial District between 2003 and 2015 in the Red Chamber, gave the assurance while reacting to the recently released list of members for the APC Presidential Campaign Council.
The erstwhile parliamentarian made the list as the Secretary of the Directorate for Campaign Planning.
The legal luminary who was the secretary of the National Convention Planning Committee that produced Adams Oshiomhole as APC national chairman in 2018, observed that the party’s presidential campaign council is made up of experienced and notable Nigerians with electoral value.
His words: “I feel honoured and gratified that I’m invited once again to serve and play a prominent role in the APC to which I belong. I’m a faithful and committed member of the APC. So, I’m totally pleased. Looking at the presidential campaign council, I think it is very well constituted, populated by very experienced people with extensive networks and electoral value. That is what we need at this point that campaigns are about starting. The campaign council is made up of tested and proven men and women that will add value to the campaigns and give mileage to our presidential candidate Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who on his own has the credentials and the qualities to also take the campaigns forward. I believe that the APC will win the 2023 presidential election clean and clear.”
Speaking on the need for eligible Nigerians to participate in the electoral process, Ndoma-Egba said: “I will advise the public to own the process because choosing your leader is a sacred duty. And if you are indifferent then you will be foisted with people that you have no say in how they emerge but you will still yield to them in any way because they would have been vested with the constitutional authority over your affairs. So let every member of the public of voting age come out and take part in the process that will lead to a new leadership come 2023. It’s a sacred duty. It’s a civic duty. And it’s also a constitutional duty for all of us to participate in the process.”
On ensuring issue-based campaigns, he remarked: “There are too many issues dominating our social space today. So, there is really no need for us to get petty. We should debate the issues. There are too many issues staring us in the face. Is Nigeria where it ought to be? Which turns did we miss? Where are we headed? Can we build an elite consensus, an elite national consensus on the Nigeria of our dreams? And how do we attain or achieve the Nigeria of our dreams? What kind of Nigerians do we want to be? I mean, there are very urgent conversations that we should begin to have if this country must move forward. Yes, like I said we have missed some turns in the past. We are not where we should be. But we can catch up. And then with lesson from the Gulf region that have made such tremendous milestones in the last few years. And even from Southeast Asia, countries like Vietnam that were at war for how many decades, Thailand, Cambodia and suddenly exploding and emerging economic power houses. It is comforting in many ways that within such a short time these countries in spite of their challenges are where they are. With the will we can also achieve same.”
Labour Party Slams Agho Blessing For Her Bad Vices, Demands retraction
Of Libelous Allegations
EDO State chapter of the Labour Party (LP) has demanded an unreserved
apology from one Ms Agho Blessing who has been running berserk on
social media, spewing venom and acerbic libellous allegation against
the national chairman of our great party, Comrade Barrister Julius
Abure.
The state chairman, Comrade Kelly Ogbaloi descended heavily on Ms Agho
Blessing over her primitive, baseless and scorched earth criticism of
the celebrated national chairman who has helped to nurture the Labour
Party along with other patriotic leaders of the party over the last
three decades without blemish.
“Hon. Elizabeth Ativie won the election for Uhuonwonde/Orhionmwon
Federal Constituency and her name was uploaded into Independent
Electoral Commission’s (INEC) portal in accordance with the electoral
laws, pure and simple”, the state chairman said.
Agho Blessing who is an internet urchin has been ranting on her
Facebook page with less than 4,000 followers over the loose of one of
her numerous man friends, Mr Murphy Imasuen who lost at the Labour
Party rescheduled primary election conducted in Uhuonwonde/Orhionmwon/
Federal Constituency of Edo State, sometimes in July this year.
In one of her incoherent diatribe against Barrister Abure, Blessing
wrote: “The duplicitous national chairman of the party; Julius Abure
has threatened to dissolve the State Executive excos for refusing to
support him.
“Recall, that it was allege that the tolotolo long throat national
chairman collected the sum of N30MILLION from the desperate
dishonorable iyenokhua; Madam Elizabeth Ativie to place her name on
the INEC list.
“Elizabeth Ativie uncloaked her ordeal with Julius Abure, the Labour
Party national chairman who asked her for money, she gave him a bank
draft and boom he removed Murphy Imasuen’s name and changed it to
hers”.
Agho Blessing is said to be engaged in bizarre and violent
preoccupations after many failed marriages on account of her
uncontrolled verbal diarrhoea, disruptive behaviour and unbridled
insolence that has to do with mental instability.
Comrade Ogbaloi called on Ms Agho Blessing to retract her unfounded
allegations against the national chairman that he has been trying to
dissolve the state EXCO of the party as well as the N30m allegation
within seven days or face multiple litigation.
WE’LL CONTINUE TO ENSURE FREEDOM OF SPEECH, ROBUST POLITICAL DISCOURSE, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI
President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Abuja assured that participation of citizens in democracy will continue to be encouraged through freedom of speech and robust political discourse, urging respect for divergent cultures and opinions, and upholding the unity of the country.
Receiving Letters of Credence from Ambassadors and High Commissioners of six countries at the State House, the President told the diplomats that Nigeria’s strength remains in its diversity, and the constant differences in positions further signpost a strong democratic culture.
The Ambassadors and High Commissioners of Republic of India, Mr Gangadharan Balasubramanian, Germany, Mrs Annett Gunther, Sudan, Mr Mohamed Yousif Ibrahim Abdelmannan, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mrs Gerengbo Yakivu Pascaline, State of Palestine, Abdullah M.A. Abu Shawesh and The Kingdom of Netherlands, Mr Willem Wouter Plomp, presented their Letters of Credence to President Buhari.
“As you settle down to your diplomatic responsibilities, you will realise how diverse Nigeria is. We are not only multi-ethnic and religious but also multi-cultural. We enjoy unfettered freedom of speech and engage in robust political discourses. Sometimes, the nature of these discourses, tend to give the impression that we are constantly opposed to each other.
“The reality is that there is so much that bind us together than the few areas of our divergence. I have no doubts in my mind that you will soon appreciate our uniqueness and indeed resilience as a people, as well as our diversity which constitutes our strength,’’ he said.
President Buhari urged the diplomats to build on the existing good relations that their predecessors had achieved by being more proactive in engagements.
“Today’s occasion, during which you have just presented your Letters of Credence to me, officially marks the formal assumption of your representational duties as Ambassadors/High Commissioners of your respective countries to Nigeria.
“You represent some of the most prominent countries on the earth and some of our important trading, political and cultural partners.
“The bilateral relationship that exists between each of your countries and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is warm and very cordial, and the cooperation and collaboration between us in several areas, such as socio-economic, political, security, education and cultural spheres,’’ the President noted.
As the build up to the 2023 general elections continues, President Buhari said: “I am highly optimistic that we will conduct a good transition process at the end of which a new set of political leaders will freely emerge.’’
“You are assuming your diplomatic responsibilities in Nigeria, at very interesting political period as Nigeria’s national elections are due in February 2023. I want to state again, as I did just a few days ago at the UN General Assembly, that we remain committed to free and fair elections,’’ he added.
The President called for more collectiveness in tackling some of the challenges faced by nations, noting that the climatic, economic and security concerns can only be solved through shared vision, skills and efforts.
“We are living in unprecedented global challenging time. Early in 2020, much of the world was forced to shut down on account of COVID-19. The catastrophic impact of the pandemic has been across our nations not just in terms of tragic loss of millions of lives, but also massive loss of livelihoods and the resultant economic recession.
“Just as we are recovering, the war in Ukraine came to impact negatively on global economy. Meanwhile, we are faced with the urgency to take collective actions to stop the devastating consequences of climate change that manifest every day in parts of the world.
“The various factors that account for these challenges are beyond the capacity of any single country to effectively contain them alone. Hence, the necessity for all of us to work closely together to build consensus in order to overcome them and also minimise tensions and confrontations amongst and between ourselves,’’ he said.
President Buhari said Nigeria firmly remains committed to multilateralism.
“For us in Nigeria, we continue to make steady progress, despite the daunting challenges of insecurity, in the fight against corruption, diversification of the economy, and our efforts in promoting good governance, amongst other things.
“At the sub-regional and regional levels, Nigeria has continued to work with other member-states of ECOWAS and other regional blocs, to deal with the problems of terrorism, trans-border crimes, banditry, maritime issues, proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons, unconstitutional change of government, to mention some of the challenges we face,’’ the President stated.
While welcoming the Ambassadors and High Commissioners, and their families to Nigeria, President Buhari wished them a rewarding tour of duty.
On behalf of the diplomats, the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria assured President Buhari of the full support of their countries, especially as Nigeria counts down to the 2023 elections, adding that they would work with his government, and the leader that emerges after elections.
Balasubramanian said all the Ambassadors and High Commissioners will work to consolidate on existing good relations, while Germany will focus on climatic issues, and The Kingdom of Netherlands pursuing interests in agriculture and stimulating youths’ capacity in entrepreneurship.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 27, 2022
Lagos, Nigeria 28 September, 2022
2baba, Cobhams and Made Kuti set to find the most extra special band in Nigeria as Trophy Extra Special Band as season 3 kicks off
Trophy Extra Special Stout, the official sponsor of live band music in Nigeria returns with Trophy Extra Special Band Season 3 set to premiere on Saturday 1 October at 20:00 WAT
With the spotlight on the third season of Nigeria’s best live band reality TV show, Trophy Extra Special Band, the organisers have announced an expert team of judges featuring 2Baba, Cobhams Asuquo, and Trophy Extra Special Stout’s new brand ambassador, Made Kuti.
The show will premiere on Africa’s destination for premium entertainment and storytelling, MTV Base, DStv Channel 322 and GOtv Channel 72 on Saturday, 1 October 2022 at 20:00 WAT.
Judges are tasked with assessing and steering eleven bands in their quest for the grand prize of 10 million naira and a brand-new set of musical instruments over eight weeks. In addition to 2Baba, Cobhams and Made Kuti, Nigerian vocalist, dancer, lyricist, Yinka Davies and ace rapper, Illbliss will appear as guest judges. Returning as host for the new season is Bolanle Olukanni who is joined by actor, TV/radio presenter Simi Drey, as the new co-host.
Commenting on the choice of judges and hosts for the third season, Tolulope Tomori Adedeji, Marketing Director at International Breweries said, “In line with the underlying theme of our campaign, we have selected judges and hosts who are innovative leaders in their rights — true representations of the theme No DNA Needed, Originally Black. We are certain they will individually bring their unique signature and wealth of experience to bear and make this season the most memorable one so far.”
“Now in its third year, the competition provides a platform for live bands to thrive and shine in an ecosystem where the focus has been on solo acts. With exciting new additions to the third season, including more technically challenging routines and new music genres for the bands to perform, the show is bound to be incredibly reverberating,” she added.
Afrobeat scion, Made Kuti, acknowledged the importance of the show, especially in line with the ongoing Trophy Extra Special Stout thematic campaign, “No DNA needed, Originally Black” which seeks to celebrate the innovative spirit in Africans.
“Resilient ingenuity is the hallmark of Nigerians and Africans, whether they live here or any of the other 6 continents. We are innovators, pacesetters, and system builders. You know us, not only by the colour of our skin but by our resilience, and though this is commendable, it is important that platforms are created to support and empower Africa’s geniuses to thrive and shine. The Trophy Extra Special Band competition does this, and I can’t wait to be a part of the incredible journey of identifying and rewarding indigenous originality.”
Previous editions of The Trophy Extra Special Band saw Black Tunez and The Bandhitz emerge as winners in Seasons 1 and 2 respectively. Other remarkable bands from the previous seasons include The Alian Tribe, Benedictz, and Elixir, all of whom have achieved success from the show.
Expressing his delight on the continuity, Bada Akintunde-Johnson, Country Manager, Paramount Africa (parent company of MTV Base) said, “We are pleased to work with International Breweries on the production of the new season as it resonates deeply with all we stand for. Nigeria is brimming with incredible talent, and we believe that providing these talents with platforms – such as the Trophy Extra Special Band – will go a long way in unlocking their full potential. Even more crucially, it creates a sustainable means of spotlighting an underserved segment of our music industry.”
Catch Trophy Extra Special Season 3 on MTV base every Saturday from 1 October till 19 November 2022 at 20:00 (WAT). There will be repeat broadcasts on Sundays and Wednesdays at 19:00 and 21:00 (WAT) respectively. The show will also air between 20:00 and 21:00 (WAT) on Africa Magic Urban, DStv channel 153 and GOtv SUPA Channel 6, as well as Africa Magic Family, DStv Channel 154 and GOtv Channel 2, every Saturday.
You can also follow the conversation on social media using the hashtag #TrophyExtraSpecialBand and the Trophy Stout Instagram handle (@trophystout).
PRESS STATEMENT
I WON’T ABANDON WIKE …Ortom
Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has dismissed as a ruse, the insinuation in some media reports that he has broken away from the camp of his Rivers State counterpart, Nyesom Wike.
Speaking to journalists Tuesday, September 27th, 2022 shortly after returning from a brief London trip, he insisted that he stood with Wike and frowns at the injustices meted out on him.
Thisday Newspapers’ had in screaming headline of Tuesday September 27th, 2022, twisted the statement from the Governors media aide with the caption; “Ortom Breaks With Wike, Says He Is Not Supporting Ayu’s Removal.”
The Governor at the briefing said the news story is not only mischievous but misleading to further fuel the impasse within the PDP and sow a seed of discord between him and his Rivers State counterpart and other members of the group.
The Governor reiterated “There is no breaking away from our group. I still sympathize with Wike for the injustices meted out on him and our group.”
He said, “The Thisday news report is misleading. I just came back from London this morning with Wike and I still maintain my stand on what I said. I have not moved away from there. The party leadership has not been fair to Governor Wike based on the activities that took place during the convention and after the convention.
“They have not been able to adequately deploy the internal conflict resolution mechanism of the party to resolve those issues. So I still sympathize and stand with Wike and let the leadership of the party at the national level do the right thing. It is not too late to do so,” he said.
According to Governor Ortom “Politics is about interest, and where your interest is not protected, you have the right to protest” stressing that “We remain committed to the PDP but still want the right thing to be done, so that everybody will be carried along.”
While noting that it is not late to resolve the issues, Governor Ortom further pointed out that with the interface he had with the Board of Trustees, BOT of the party, he hopes that issues will be properly addressed.
“The issue in contention about the national Chairman, the BOT, was here some few days ago and we deliberated on the matter. They sought to know what my feeling was about the crisis and I told them the truth as far I am concerned.
“I gave them my recommendations and I hope that justice will be done so that our party will gain its position to take over power in 2023,” he said.
The Governor maintained that despite the crisis rocking the party at the national level, Benue State does not have any problem, stressing that “from bottom to top, we are good to go, as far as our party is concerned. I am working for our candidates.”
On the outcome of the caucus meeting, the Governor said after due consultations, a Benue North-West Senatorial campaign team for the Senate will be constituted, pointing out that it will be integrated into the main campaign council of PDP in Benue State.
Nathaniel Ikyur
Chief Press Secretary
September 27th, 2022.
PRESIDENT BUHARI CELEBRATES SEGUN AWOLOWO AT 59
President Muhammadu Buhari joins family and friends to rejoice with former Executive Director/CEO of Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), 2013-2021, Segun Awolowo Jnr, on his 59th birthday, September 27, 2022.
President Buhari salutes the lawyer for years of service to the nation, accepting appointments to share his wealth of knowledge and wisdom, including Special Assistant to the President on Traditional Institutions, Secretary of Social Development, FCT, and working in President’s Office with Budget Monitoring and Price Intelligence Unit, also known as Due Process, now Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP).
The President notes Awolowo’s extensive work with four Nigerian Presidents and three FCT Ministers, which reveals his patriotism and zeal to make a difference, successfully initiating and pursuing a visionary policy of Zero-oil Plan in NEPC, which calls for repositioning of the economy to favour non-oil exports.
As the scion of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo marks his 59th birthday, President Buhari believes his experience will find relevance and greater expressions as he moves higher in public service, ready and willing to make an impact on growth of the nation.
The President prays for good health, strength and greater heights for the former Executive Director of NEPC.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 26, 2022
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU AT CHATHAM HOUSE, CHARGES WORLD LEADERS ON SUSTAINABLE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
…Says LASG has consistently increased budgetary allocation, efficiency in healthcare
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has appealed to world leaders, global think-tank and public office holders to work towards building a sustainable healthcare system for all and facilitate access for the poor and under-served.
Speaking on “Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria: Optimizing Institutional Opportunities and Partnerships for Success” at the weekend at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House, Governor Sanwo-Olu charged global think-tank to optimise institutional opportunities and partnerships for the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
“To achieve UHC, developing countries must first focus on offering their residents a basic minimum set of healthcare services, provided free at the point of care using subsidy, controlled premiums or at a pre-set tariff system, within government-regulated facilities either public or affiliated private,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State as the most populous city in Africa, a financial hub and Africa’s 5th Largest Economy on the continent, has strategically strengthened the health system in pursuit of Universal Health Coverage.
He said Lagos State has been using policies to strengthen its health systems, pushing toward the achievement of UHC, which the State considers a journey and not a destination.
“In Lagos State, we believe that policy is the most effective tool that governments can deploy in the pursuit of stronger health systems and eventually approaching UHC. The right policies will lead to the development of robust health financing systems that will serve the needs of our huge and increasing population,” he said.
Speaking on some of the policies of his administration to strengthen the health system, Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State Government has consistently increased its budgetary allocation and efficiency to healthcare over the years, noting that the desire of his government is to eventually match the Abuja Declaration of 15 percent.
He said his administration, through its capital infrastructure blueprint agenda, is upgrading and renovating its existing primary and secondary health facilities in the short term and it has commenced building new designed fit-for-purpose primary, secondary and specialist health facilities for the future.
“We recognise that the Government cannot cover the funding gap in the health system without support from the private sector. In a bid to encourage public-private partnerships, we set up various institutions such as the Office of Public Private Partnerships (OPPPs) and IBILE Holdings, a private company owned by Lagos State for the purpose of engaging with the private sector. These institutions are mandated to facilitate and fast-track PPP opportunities in Lagos State.
“We understand the need for proper governance within the administrative structure of the health system and so we inaugurated boards for all the agencies within the Lagos State Ministry of Health. This has gone a long way to strengthen the capacity of the hierarchical sub-agencies, keeping them focused on their mandates.
“We believe in health insurance as a tool that we can leverage to quickly cover ground in our quest for UHC and so we have thrown the full weight of our support behind the newly established National Health Insurance Act, and mandated our Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) to domesticate and enrol residents of Lagos into the Lagos State Social Health Insurance Scheme.
“We are leveraging partnerships with Global organisations like Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Global Fund amongst others to explore innovative ways to strengthen our primary health system. In fact, I believe that such organisations’ decisions to directly fund a sub-national like Lagos State is a testament to the clarity of our vision and our drive to achieve results,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also disclosed that his administration has concluded some innovative schemes in partnership with the private sector to modernise the equipment in the State’s secondary health centres and set up specialised health facilities.
“We have commenced two pilot projects: The Lagos State Oncology Centre and the Omotunde Ajoke Cole Smart Hospital. The success of these projects will mark a new dawn in our health system, where the best of the public and private sectors come together to provide world-class affordable healthcare.
“We are working hard to improve the quality of human resources we have in our health centres. We are also using a system of meritocracy to appoint Medical Directors (MDs) in health centres and ensure continuous medical and administrative education.
“We understand the critical role played by logistics within our health system and we are making sure that people, essential medicines, and consumables are easily transported within our health system,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said while Lagos State Government is working on innovative mechanisms to pay for healthcare, it also needs to ensure that it is building a healthcare delivery system that can provide decent healthcare services to the people of the State.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
25 SEPTEMBER 2022
NBA PRESIDENT TO GOV AKEREDOLU: YOU ARE A SOURCE OF COURAGE TO US
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Sunday received a high-powered delegation of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) on a condolence visit.
The delegation was led by the president of the association, Chief Yakubu Maikyau, SAN.
The Governor received the NBA team in company of the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Olugbenga Ale.
In his remarks, Chief Yakubu Maikyau said the Bar is very proud of Governor Akeredolu, stressing that the Governor has charted a course for the members of the Association to follow.
The NBA President disclosed that Governor Akeredolu is the benchmark for judging president of the association.
He described the Governor as a role model that has shaped the attitudes, professionalism and courage of the NBA.
The NBA President said: “Governor Akeredolu, Our uncle, our big brother, past President of the NBA, of course, is the only Governor today that has passed through that route, that has excelled in his chosen career of law and that went ahead to lead the Nigeria Bar Association, with courage, boldness and purposefulness that nobody can deny in this country.
“These are the attributes that you, Mr. Governor, have brought into this office that he you occupy today. There are poeple who may want to say that, of the 36 Governors in this country, they probably did not know who are Governors in other states. But they cannot say so for the Governor of Ondo State. And that is why we, in the NBA, are very very proud of you.
“We are very very proud of you. You have charted a course for us to follow. You continue to remain that reference point for us as members of the Nigeria Bar Association. And to some of us that are privileged to tread on that path you have once been, and where you also led creditably, you are a source of inspiration. You are a source of courage to us.
“You are actually the benchmark for which we judge who has done well as a President of the Nigeria Bar Association. We have a role model that can shape our attitudes, that can shape our professionalism, that can shape our courage and boldness to aspire to that particularly office.
“So, my big brother, our President, I call him the President of all presidents, my prayer is that the almighty God will comfort you and the entire family and all of us that are children of Mama affected by this great loss.”
Chief Maikyau, who also described himself as one of the Children of the Late Mother of the Governor, Evangelist Grace Bosede Akeredolu, stressed that Mama’s children are beyond the territory of Ondo State but all over the country and the world.
“Your Excellency, you are not the only child of mama in this room today. I’m from Kebbi State. By the special grace of God, I’m one of the children of Mama. Honestly, there are many children of Mama that go beyond the territory of Ondo State. They are all over the country and also across the globe because of what Mama represents during her lifetime.
“I’m deliberate about using that present tense because Mama merely slept. When somebody is sleeping, you don’t refer to him or her in the past tense. Mama is alive, Mama has merely slept. I can draw strength from the Scripture that tells us that when one moves from this side of the eternity to the other realm, that such a person merely slept. There is a certain day that such person will wake up.
“Mama is one that we are sure that by the integrity of God’s words that will wake up some day at the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ. So, I have come not to mourn will you but to just bring words of comfort to you because our parents can never be too old to stay back with us.
“We all miss the physical fellowship we had with Mama. There are things, perhaps, you had wanted to discuss with Mama but her physical absence has robbed you of the opportunity of doing so.”
“I have come to celebrate with you that Mama has left this side of eternity in terms of her physical presence. I have come to celebrate with you for the fact that Mama lived well, and to underscore that fact that I’m also Mama’s child,” he added.
Governor Akeredolu thanked the NBA President for the visit and congratulated him on his deserved victory as the President of the Bar.
The Governor also commended the courage of the NBA President for speaking up against the intrusion into the house of a Court of Appeal judge, Ita Mbaba, in Kano, Kano State.
Governor Akeredolu urged the Bar President to continue to be the voice of the people.
“We must continue to prosecute our conviction with courage. We need a Bar that is courageous. And you have shown it,” the Governor said.
On his late mum, Governor Akeredolu said: ”Our mother lived to a ripe age of 90. We have picked a date, November 10, 11 and 12. We will thank God the best way we can. For me, it is for us to thank God for his grace. This is a Graceful exit of Grace. We will celebrate her.”
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 25, 2022.
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU, SGF, SULTAN, CAN PRESIDENT TASK NIGERIANS ON PEACE, JUSTICE
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha, and leaders of the Nigeria Inter-Religion Council (NIREC) have called on Nigerians, irrespective of religious and ethnic differences to work together for peace and justice in country.
Sanwo-Olu, Mustapha and co-chairmen of NIREC – Sultan of Sokoto and leader of Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence Mohammed Sa’ad Abubakar and President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. (Dr.) Daniel Okoh, made the appeal on Monday during the 3rd Quarter Meeting 2022 of the Nigeria Inter-Religion Council held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island.
Governor Sanwo-Olu in his address urged religious and traditional leaders to continue making it a collective responsibility to preach and work towards promoting unity, peace, justice and tranquility in Nigeria.
Speaking on the theme of the meeting, “Working together for justice and peace,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said promoting unity, peace, justice and tranquility in Nigeria will bring about a peaceful coexistence among the people.
“I believe with the case of NIREC that we have today and that we have seen consistently, this country will not be put to shame. I am hoping that the conversations, discussions and decisions at the NIREC meeting will further strengthen that thing that we all swore to; to ensure justice, peace and equity in this country.
“We are at a time this country needs all of us, now more than ever before and so, we should not allow hate speech. We cannot afford ethnic bigotry. We cannot afford to be divided. We are going into elections; let us see the commitment and nationality in all of us,” Governor Sanwo-Olu urged Nigerians.
The Governor also expressed his administration’s commitment to the delivery of dividends of democracy in Lagos State. “As a political leader, the only way we will not fail our people is by ensuring that we give good governance. I stand here as your 15th Governor of Lagos State and I want to repeat that the ‘Greater Lagos’ agenda is something that we are committed to and it is something that we have signed unto,” he said.
Speaking on the ongoing Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU) strike and the union face-off with the Federal Government, Governor Sanwo-Olu said though none of the Lagos State-owned three universities are on strike, it is painful that children in other universities are at home in the last seven months.
Sanwo-Olu, who appealed that ASUU should call off the strike and get the students back to school, said the academic union and the Federal Government should quickly resolve the lingering issue necessitating the over seven months strike “in order not to compromise the future of our children.”
Mustapha, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Secretary to Government of the Federation, Dr. Maurice Nnamdi Mbaeri, said the meeting was a call to national duty to take an active part in renewing troubled communities.
He charged people, especially religious leaders to work for justice, peace and fair play to create the needed change so that Nigerians can always live in unity and harmony.
“I want to charge every one of us to work for peace that will endure and outlast us by creating functional structures for generations unborn. This structure must have the capacity to be proactive in responding to emerging issues while reinforcing a longer and larger change processes. We cannot fold our hands when we see problems emerging,” he said.
The Sultan of Sokoto, a Co-Chairman of NIREC, said the role of religious leaders is to be just and fair to earn the trust of the people. He also urged Muslims and Christians in the country to come together to pursue peace and justice as they are inseparable.
He pleaded with ASUU to call off the ongoing strike, saying both the Federal Government and academic union should find a common ground to resolve their conflict in the interest of the students, who have not been in school in the last seven months.
The President of CAN and NIREC’s Co-chairman, Rev. Daniel Okoh, urged people to embrace peace, desist from hateful utterances, live in peaceful coexistence with one another, be accountable, elect leaders with capacities during the 2023 general elections and abhor tribal sentiments, among others vices.
In his speech, the Executive Secretary of NIREC, Cornelius Omonokhua, said the meeting was aimed at changing existing narratives to allow justice and peace to reign in Nigeria.
He said there was a need for mental reengineering, change of values and attitudes as well as radical emancipation to address the root of various calamities of national concerns.
Also speaking, the Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, called on religious leaders to continue to preach peace and unity to bring about development in the country.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
26 SEPTEMBER 2022
Julius Berger commences immediate repair on Km 75 Abuja – Kaduna Expressway
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has begun an immediate emergency repair around Kilometre 75 Abuja – Kaduna Expressway. This is in response to the hardship caused by the deplorable condition of that portion of the highway.
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is currently reconstructing the 376-kilometer Abuja-Kano Road (AKR) and has made tremendous progress at different sections of the AKR project. The project is divided into Sections 1 (Abuja-Kaduna), 2 (Kaduna-Zaria) and 3 (Zaria-Kano), and out of 376 kilometers, over 152 kilometers have progressed up to the wearing course with 140 kilometers already handed over.
Regrettably, Section 1 has lagged largely due to disruptions by activities of bandits and other criminal elements along the axis. However, with the remarkable and reassuring gains made by members of the armed forces and other security agencies recently, Julius Berger engineers are returning to the site to commence the reconstruction of this 165-kilometre section of the project. Top-level meetings are also ongoing between the management of Julius Berger and the Kaduna State Government to ensure that the project can continue hitch-free.
The AKR currently has a total of 4480 number manpower deployed on and off-site, and with the 74km length Section 2 (Kaduna to Zaria) project nearing completion, Julius Berger hopes to bolster its number of men and equipment on the remaining Sections, most especially Section 1, guaranteeing intense pace in the delivery of the project.
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc again reassures commuters and the general public of its commitment to delivering a quality road project that will serve them and ease their current challenges on the road .
More Laurels As Dum Dekor, Others Bag Methodist Church Award In Lagos
The lawmaker representing Khana/Gokana federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Dumnamene Robinson Dekor was among 180 Nigerians who received the prestigious Honorific Award for outstanding leadership, service to God and positive contribution to humanity.
The colourful ceremony which held at the Birch Freeman’s Methodist Cathedral, Badagry, Lagos on Saturday, attracted people from all walks of life including Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The prestigious award by Birch Freeman’s, the first Methodist Church in Nigeria, established since 1842, is coming on the heels of the conferment on Dekor As Best Federal Lawmaker of Year Award by the African Trendsetters, a fortnight ago in Port Harcourt.
Rt. Hon. Dekor, a former Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly as well as former Works Commissioner in the state has also won back to back the Dmoma Best Lawmaker Award in 2020 and 2021 respectively.
He also bagged the National Network Leadership Award in 2019 and has been nominated for Best Federal Lawmaker Award by the newspaper in it’s 18th Anniversary Celebration billed for Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt on 28th October, 2022.
The appreciative federal lawmaker, in his words said he owes gratitude to God and humanity for the series of awards, saying that whatever he is doing is a payback to society and particularly to his Ogoni people, whose mandate he has to represent them at the National Assembly.
The awards on the 180 Nigerians is in commemoration of 180th / 60th Anniversary of Methodist Church in Nigeria.
PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS PAUL UNONGO AT 87
President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with former Minister of Steel Development, Paul Unongo, on his 87thbirthday, September 26, 2022, rejoicing with the elder statesman for a life of service to the nation and humanity.
The President hails the political leader for his principled and philosophical outlook on life, which guides his choices in business, politics and governance, with a preparedness to give more than he receives, and spend his time and resources in improving the lives of others.
President Buhari notes the sacrifices, selflessness and resilience of the nationalist, who worked many years as a banker, before returning to school to obtain his B.SC, M.SC and doctorate in Experimental Psychology in Canada and London, returning to Nigeria to lecture in the university and contributing to major political and constitutional reforms.
As founder of the Paul Unongo Foundation turns 87, the President celebrates with his family members, friends and associates.
The President prays that the Almighty God will continue to bless and keep the political leader and his family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 25, 2022
Lagos, Nigeria 27 September, 2022
Amstel Malta Ultra hosts Enugu to the inaugural Fitness Fiesta
Emphasising its commitment to wellness and a healthy lifestyle among Nigerians, Amstel Malta Ultra hosted consumers to the first-ever Amstel Malta Ultra Fitness Fiesta on 24 September, 2022 at the Michael Okpara Square, Enugu.
With several fitness instructors in attendance, the workout session was led by ex-BBNaija housemate and fitness influencer, Okusaga Adeoluwa, popularly known as Saga, which excited many participants, including hundreds of fitness enthusiasts who trooped into the venue to get registered and participate in the workout sessions.
Speaking on the ultra-fitness fiesta in Enugu, Funso Ayeni, Head of Trade Marketing, Nigerian Breweries PLC said, “The selection of the Coal City of Enugu for this novel event was a straightforward decision as the state is renowned for its passion for fitness, sports and youth development. Although this is the maiden edition of the Ultra Fitness Fiesta, we hope to deepen our involvement in local sporting activities such that this become a staple in Nigeria’s annual sporting calendar.”
Activities at the fiesta also included dance sessions, aerobics, High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) among many other exciting workout routines, refreshed by Amstel Malta Ultra to energise the participants.
This event is the first leg of the 3-week long Amstel Malta Ultra Fitness Fiesta. The second leg is the 20km marathon, Run For The Coal City, which will hold on 1 October, 2022. Celebrities and fitness influencers such as the Amstel Malta brand ambassador and actress, Dakore Egbuson-Akande; award-winning Nigerian athlete, Ese Brume and fitness trainer, Sandra Okeke (SOfit) are set to attend.
Southwest Directors of Culture meet in Ogun
Directors of Culture in all the Yoruba speaking states will meet in Abeokuta, the Capital of Ogun State, this Friday, to deliberate on the region’s coming celebration of Yoruba fashion culture and its business exposition tagged ‘Ilẹ-Kaaarọ-Oo-jiire Fashion week’ slated for the last quarter of this year.
With the motto: From Farm to Fashion, the-week long activities are being organised by the Yoruba World Centre, in collaboration with the Ogun State Government, to educate, demonstrate, and expose the arts of Yoruba fashion and the hidden investment opportunities in its process to national and international publics. It is majorly tailored for youth development and women empowerment.
It is a week of history of Yoruba fashion, as packaged by Crystalline World Heritage, where demonstration will start from the planting and harvesting of cotton, the process of turning cotton into yarn (grinning), from where cloths distributors and retailers sell to the public, before it gets to dress makers for different styles.
The Ogun State Commissioner of Culture and Tourism, Mrs Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye Oladapo, who is to host the directors reiterated the importance of the programme, saying ‘it is one of the best ways to assist our youths and empower the womenfolk, and also to foster investment relations at regional, national and international levels.”
Speaking on behalf of the Yoruba World Centre, the Director of the project, Prince Akinwale Atepe, stated that the week is going to be carnival-like as ministries of culture in Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo are preparing their cultural troupes for this special event. “I have visited most of the states, met with commissioners, Permanent Secretaries and directors, we are all prepared for the meeting from where the ball will be set rolling, because it is at this meeting that a date will be picked between the end of November and early December for the programme.”
Lagos, Nigeria 26 September 2022
South African Pioneer Riky Rick posthumously receives inaugural Global Visionary Award at The BET HipHop Awards 2022
Hosted by Fat Joe, “BET Hip Hop Awards” 2022 premieres Wednesday, 05 October 2022 at 02:00 am WAT/ 03:00 am CAT and repeat at 18:30WAT/19:30 CAT
Rikhado “Riky Rick” Makhado will be honoured posthumously with the prestigious title his fans have known him to hold ever since he broke into the industry: The Global Visionary Award, during the International Broadcast of the 2022 BET Hip-Hop Awards. The esteemed award recognises and honours champions of culture, including artists, DJs, and music industry professionals who have made ground-breaking efforts to expand the culture of hip-hop on the World Stage. Riky Rick is the inaugural recipient of this award.
Hosted by Grammy®-nominated recording artist, actor, entrepreneur, and media personality Fat Joe the “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” 2022, will tape from the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, GA, on Friday, September 30, and will premiere Internationally on BET Africa, DStv channel 129 on Wednesday, 05 October 2022 at 02:00 am WAT/ 03:00 am CAT and repeat at 18:30WAT/19:30 CAT.
“The BET Global Visionary Award comes as a heart-warming opportunity to celebrate Rikhado’s life and his deep love for humanity”, said Louisa Zondo, Riky Rick’s mother. “I see the award as a recognition of the positive impact of the music Rikhado shared with us. The award also highlights how Rikhado used arts and culture as an important and effective pathway for people to truly connect with, care for and be seen by each other.”
The South African Entrepreneur, Rapper, and Fashion Icon, Riky Rick, has been a force in the music industry since the release of “Nafukwa”, which won an MTV Africa Award for Video of the Year. Riky Rick’s dynamic and prominent voice in SA hip-hop has earned him recognition as a highly regarded creative who has left an indelible mark on the global music scene. He pioneered the independent music wave in SA and beyond, separating from his label and releasing music directly to fans online. His independent ventures achieved much success and inspired other artists to explore a similar path. He is the founder and owner of Cotton Club Records and of Cotton Fest, a platform that celebrates the world of music and fashion.
“As Riky’s family, we are moved and honoured to receive the BET Global Visionary Award on behalf of our beloved, Riky Rick,” said Bianca Naidoo Makhado, Riky Rick’s wife. “This award honours his work and his name. I am so proud that my husband’s work is still making a positive impact within the entertainment space and that his legacy continues to inspire young creatives. This award reminds us of his love for his fans and for the culture.”
“Riky Rick means so much to so many of us, not just South African hip-hop fans but globally beyond the mic. His impact in changing the South African hip-hop game to be more inclusive, particularly in encouraging young creatives to take control of their destiny and dare to dream bigger, endures as one of his most influential and lasting legacies. His legacy continues to inspire and together with Bianca, we hope to honour Riky by championing a new generation of black creatives while celebrating his life and what he stood for,” said Monde Twala, Senior Vice president and General Manager, Paramount Africa and Peer Lead, BET International.
Riky Rick’s untimely passing, due to mental health struggles, is a great loss for many. This Award aims to honour his life, work, and his lasting impact while raising awareness around mental health issues and shedding light on available coping resources. Riky Rick was an innovator in many spheres of culture and the world benefited greatly from his intuitive vision.
For more information about “BET Hip Hop Awards” including the latest news and updates, visit bet.com/hiphopawards.
GOV AKEREDOLU FLAGS OFF ORANGHIS, SAYS IT WILL LOWER FINANCIAL BARRIERS TO HEALTHCARE FOR PUBLIC SERVANTS
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, on Tuesday disclosed that his administration has continued to demonstrate political will in attaining Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in accordance with one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Governor Akeredolu expressed his administration’s commitment to quality healthcare delivery in the state.
He spoke at the official flag off of the Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) for public servants in the state.
The Governor equally performed the foundation-laying ceremony of the permanent office complex of the State Contributory Health Commission beside the State Revenue House, Igbatoro Road, Akure.
At the well attended event held at the International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, Akure, Governor Akeredolu explained that the official flag off of ORANGHIS ushered in a breath of fresh air in the healthcare delivery system in line with the fifth point of his government’s REDEEMED agenda, which is Effective Healthcare and Social Welfare.
According to him, ORANGHIS is designed for all political office holders and civil servants in the State.
He noted that the delight of any Governor in a developing country like Nigeria, is to be able to create a sustainable funding mechanism that lowers the financial barriers to healthcare for the citizenry.
The Governor said:”In spite of the obvious economic constraints across Nigeria, we approved the joint contribution of 3% of gross salary of each public servant under a sharing ratio of 1.8% by the State Government and 1.2% by individual public servant, as the premium for a family health insurance plan, covering each public servant, one spouse and four biological children below the age of 18 years.
“It is on record that we are the only State Government, in recent times, that is taking up the responsibility of a larger percentage (60%) of the health insurance premium for public servants. We made the commitment to do so as part of the social welfare promise under the REDEEMED agenda.”
He acknowledged the patriotic support of the labour unions in enthroning the Orange Health Insurance Scheme, saying they have shown maturity, dedication, understanding and true sense of comradeship.
“We have continued to demonstrate political will since on 6th February, 2018, when I signed into Law, the Bill establishing the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission and the Ondo State Contributory Health Scheme in response to the pressing global need to attain Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in accordance with one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“We also gave effect to the operationalisation of this Law by creating a temporary office space for the Commission, which we officially opened on 24th June, 2019, to begin her mandate of regulating, supervising and coordinating all health insurance activities within the State.
“You will recall that we have begun the implementation of health insurance by paying the premium for pregnant women and children below the age of five years through a budgetary line for the Abiyamo Maternal-and-Child Health Insurance Scheme (AMCHIS) – the first health insurance product.
“I am glad to inform you that the Abiyamo scheme since 3rd December, 2019 till date, has recorded over 24,200 beneficiaries who have not had to pay a kobo for antenatal care, delivery services (including Caesarean Sections) and other allied services.
“Thereafter, we approved the release of the State’s counterpart fund to the Federal Government-funded Basic Health Care Provision Fund Programme (BHCPFP) in order for another set of vulnerable persons in Ondo State to enjoy robust healthcare services.
“Today, 20,560 enrollees, made up of widows, retirees, aged, indigents, women and children below five years are the six categories of beneficiaries receiving care at the 203 Primary Health Care Facilities (1 per 203 wards) with referrals to general hospitals when required under the BHCPF programme.
“The beneficiaries pay no kobo for medical, surgical, gynaecology and several other health care services. We are, therefore, glad that the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission has taken the health insurance conversation a step higher with the third product called Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) for all public servants in Ondo State.”The Governor stressed.
Governor Akeredolu revealed that a fourth health insurance scheme known as Sunshine Health Insurance Scheme (SUNSHIS) for the informal sector will also commence in the nearest future to cover artisans, market women, commercial transport operators
“Finally, please be assured that the State Government’s percentage contribution and the premium deductions from public servants’ salaries to the Orange Health Insurance Scheme shall not wane.
Furthermore, a fourth health insurance scheme known as Sunshine Health Insurance Scheme (SUNSHIS) for the informal sector that makes up about 95% of our population shall also commence in the nearest future to cover artisans, market women, commercial transport operators etc.
“I am also aware that pensioners and students shall have their own scheme too. This means that every resident of Ondo State will be brought into the safety net of the Universal Health Coverage.” He said.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 27, 2022.
AKEREDOLU REPRESENTS WHAT NIGERIANS DESIRE AT THIS TIME – PETER OBI
The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, on Tuesday said the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, represents what Nigerians desire at this present time.
Obi described Governor Akeredolu as a leader who speaks the truth at all times no matter the consequences.
The LP Presidential candidate spoke during a condolence visit to the Governor at the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Alagbaka, Akure.
Also on ground to receive him were the wife of the Governor, Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu; the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; the Chief of Staff, Chief Olugbenga Ale; Director General of the Project Performance and Implementation Monitoring Unit and grandson of the deceased, Mr Babajide Akeredolu among others.
Obi, who said things are going wrong in the country because people choose to keep quiet, commended the Governor for speaking up for the people.
He charged Governor Akeredolu to continue to take every necessary step to protect his people, adding that the Governor is doing the right thing.
Obi said: “I urge you to continue in that direction. You represent one of those things Nigerians desire, ability to speak the truth no matter the consequences.
“What is lacking in Nigeria is that we choose to keep quiet when things are going wrong. You have a man here who always speaks when things are going wrong, and I urge you to continue.”
He supported Governor Akeredolu on his move to arm the Amotekun Corps, saying the Governor must continue to do his best to defend his people.
“Arm those special security poeple. Take every step to protect your people. It is important and it is your duty. I’m happy that you are speaking out always when necessary. May God Almighty continue to be with you and bless all of you.” He added.
Obi condoled the Governor on the demise of his mother, Lady Evangelist Grace Akeredolu, JP, praying God to grant her eternal rest.
The LP presidential standard bearer equally used the occasion to commiserate with the Governor over the sad incident at St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, where 41 people were killed and several other injured.
In his response, Governor Akeredolu appreciated Obi and his entourage for finding time to visit him.
Akeredolu, who said what happened on June 5 at St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, was horrendous, also described the sad incident as unexpected and uncommon, especially in the Southern part of the country.
On the death of his mother, the Governor said she would surely be missed even though she left at the ripe age of 90 years.
He expressed joy that all of her late mother’s children survived her, saying she would be given a glorious and befitting burial.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 27, 2022.
APPRECIATION AND ANNOUNCEMENT OF BURIAL ARRANGEMENTS
On behalf of my siblings and the entire Akeredolu family, I wish to express our profound gratitude to all those who have reached out to us through visits and messages since the transition of our loving and lovely mother, Lady Evangelist Grace Bosede Akeredolu. It has been a deluge.
Your display of love is profoundly appreciated. We cannot thank you enough. Your love and kindness are, indeed, potent enhancers for us to deepen our abiding faith in God and service to humanity.
We are equally grateful to those who spared time to visit us at the Kopindogba residence of Maami in Ibadan. We extend our appreciation to those who visited us at the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Akure, and everyone who has identified with us and other members of the Akeredolu family in Owo, Lagos and Abuja. Your affectionate support is heart-lifting.
We appreciate the love and sympathy of political leaders, royal fathers, religious leaders, community leaders, heads of security agencies, organised labour, unionists, civil servants, public officials, student leaders, women groups as well as politicians across political parties.
We would like to request friends, associates and well-wishers to join us in giving our late matriarch a glorious funeral. The obsequies are as follows:
Service of Songs at St. Matthias Anglican Church, Orogun, Ibadan.
Jacob & Grace Chapel of the All Saints Church, Iddo Eruwa Road, Ibadan.
Time: 4pm.
Commendation Service at St. Anne’s Anglican Church, Molete, Ibadan, by 9am.
Service of Songs at St Andrew’s Cathedral, Imola Street, Owo, by 4pm.
Wake Keep at Jacob & Grace Garden, Opposite Imade College, Oke-Ogun, Owo.
Burial Service at St Andrew’s Cathedral, Imola Street, Owo, by 10am.
Interment follows immediately after the burial service.
We covet your prayers and supports as we prepare to celebrate the life of Maami.
Signed:
Arakunrin Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu, SAN
Governor, Ondo State.
PRESS STATEMENT
Rotimi Fashakin Was A Quintessential Personality, Reliable Ally – Akeredolu
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, received the news of the sudden death of former Executive Director of Operations of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Engr. Rotimi Fashakin, with rude shock.
Governor Akeredolu described the death of the former spokesman of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) as a big blow to Ondo State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the country at large.
“We understand that death is a debt which everyone will surely pay if Jesus tarries. We are, however, pained with the loss of this resourceful and dedicated son of our dear State, who has shown passion and commitment to the good of the state and its people.
“ Rotimi and I had worked together in various assignments. He was our Publicity Secretary when I was the Chairman of the Caretaker Committee of the APC in the state. His intellectual prowess stood him out as a gifted man.
“Beyond mere emotions, his demise is a piercing pain which is difficult to understand. But as Christians, we must submit totally to the will of the Almighty God as the giver and taker of lives,” the Governor said.
Governor Akeredolu said the late Engr. Rotimi Fashakin gave his best in the service to humanity and the country.
“A fellow alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Rotimi was a quintessential personality who has served this country and his state in his little way. He will be sorely missed, may God grant him eternal rest. ” Governor Akeredolu added.
The Governor commiserated with the widow and children of the deceased. He prayed God to grant the family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
Signed:
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Govenror of Ondo State.
September 26, 2022.
PRESIDENT BUHARI TO CONFER CON NATIONAL HONOUR ON GOV AKEREDOLU
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has been named as one of the recipients of the 2022 National Honour Award of the Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON by President Muhammadu Buhari.
This was contained in a letter from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs signed by the Minister, Senator George Akume.
The Minister in the letter, which read in parts, said: “I have the honour to formally inform you that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, has approved the conferment of the National Honours on you, in the rank of CON (Commander of the Order of the Niger).
“The investiture ceremony is scheduled to take place at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Abuja on Tuesday, 11th October 2022 at 9:00 am”.
GOV AKEREDOLU: WE’II FACE DOWN CONFLICT ENTREPRENEUR, ENEMIES OF THE PEOPLE
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has said the Amotekun Corps must be allowed to bear the tools and the most sophisticated weapons available to fight back against marauders committing crimes against humanity.
Governor Akeredolu explained that the incontestable authority of the state must be imposed in the country which is under threat by brazen conflict entrepreneurs and armed, audacious non-state actors.
He asserted that the State Security outfits backed by law whether in the Western Nigeria, Katsina, Borno, Benue or any Northern State must have access to the same sophisticated weapons that the marauders have.
The Governor vowed that his administration will continue to support the operational capacity of all security agencies in the State both in terms of equipment and the welfare of their personnel.
He spoke at the Passing-Out Parade of Courses 3 and 4 of the State Amotekun Corps at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade, Igbatoro Road, Akure on Monday.
Governor emphasised that the passing out ceremony is a reminder of the need to strategize and tackle the current security situation, which he said has been left to snowball into existential crises across Nigeria.
He averred that the commitment of his administration to the safety and welfare of the people of the State and investors remains unshaken.
Governor Akeredolu charged the new officers to do nothing that will soil the image of Amotekun Corps, adding that much is expected from them.
“The key guiding principles which you must adhere to at all times include spartan discipline, zero-tolerance to bribery and abuse of power, prompt response to distress calls and display of professionalism in the discharge of your duties. No form of misconduct shall be tolerated.” He stressed.
The Governor, who noted that the current internal security framework in the country is ineffectual, submitted that the response of the subnationals by setting up their own outfits is welcome, necessary, and has become indispensable.
Governor Akeredolu said:”The Western Nigeria Security Network, AMOTEKUN CORPS, as a response, is now not just the first line of defence, but the ultimate bulwark in the protection of a way of life and of a civilization.
“The efforts of our determined and valiant Amotekun personnel since inception must be underscored, encouraged and highly commended. We must all rise at this time to acknowledge their efforts.
“On our parts, we will continue to support the operational capacity of all security agencies in the State both in terms of equipment and the welfare of their personnel.
“The recent donation of 50-fitted patrol vehicles is a testament to our resolve to be up-to-date in fighting crime and criminality because without a secured environment, there can never be visible and sustained development.
“The Amotekun Corps must be given the tools to carry out its now pivotal, indispensable duties. For centuries, we have been admonished that “a bad workman blames his tools,” in the case of Amotekun Corps the workman is expected to function without good tools.
“It is not only absurd, but also a dereliction of duty and a cause of disaffection. Dissatisfaction is induced by a feeling of unfairness. The crises in the conventional wisdom is life-threatening and nationwide. Therefore, it is unacceptable if the state sanctions differing rules of engagement for different sub-national governments.
“Without providing the sub-national security forces to be a counter-balancing force we have a crisis which strikes at the heart of the conception and the definition of the state itself. It is not just the definition of the State, the State itself is under existential threat.
“The modern state is defined by Treaties. The conception of the modern state beatified by these treaties gives it “an incontestable monopoly of the means of violence, intimidation and coercion.”
“Those passing out today have undergone rigorous training at great expense to the state. The training will not end here it will be continuous. However, no amount of training will mask the debilitation of fighting with one arm tied against implacable foes.
“Amotekun must therefore be armed and will be armed and be backed by law. Otherwise, the training will be inadequate and we will be placing the lives of these great patriots in danger.
The colourful Passing Out Parade was attended by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; members of Ondo State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Bamidele Oleyelogun; the Chief Judge of the state represented by the High Court Registrar, Bolatito Ajibade; Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state, Ade Adetimehin; Commander, Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye; members of the State Executive Council led by Princess Oladunni Odu; traditional rulers; Heads of security agencies; local government chairmen; religious leaders;
In their separate goodwill messages, the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Kiladejo and the chairman of Idanre local government, Prince Kayode Aroloye, saluted the courage of Governor Akeredolu which has ensured improved security of lives and property of the citizens through the establishment of Amotekun Corps.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 26, 2022.
YOU ARE THE LEADER WE DESERVE – ONDO PDP SENATORIAL CANDIDATE, ADEDIPE, TELLS GOV AKEREDOLU
Senatorial Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo Central, Chief Ifedayo Adedipe, SAN, on Sunday paid a condolence visit to the State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN.
The PDP candidate and his team were received at the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Alagbaka, Akure.
The Governor also received in audience a prominent Niger Delta leader and entrepreneur, Senior High Chief Bibopere Ajube and Pastor Gbenga Akinbiyi of the PromisedLand Prophetic Ministries,Akure.
The Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Olugbenga Ale; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union matters and Special Duties, Mr. Dare Aragbaye, joined the Governor to receive the visitors.
The PDP Senatorial candidate, Adedipe, described the late mother of the Governor, Lady Evangelist Grace Bosede Akeredolu, as an uncommonly gifted mother.
He congratulated the Governor for witnessing the transition of his mother at old age.
Adedipe said: ”First of all, Mama was uncommonly gifted, having seven of you and all of you are alive. In her life time, all of you attained every considerable height. You were once the Attorney-General of this state and then the President of the Nigerian Bar Association.
“You attained the rank of senior advocate. You became a member of the Body of life Benchers and that is the height you could get to in the profession. People dream of all these. In her life time, God gifted you all these. Mama is what we call ‘Abiyamo Tooto’.
“I read in your tribute that she was a prayer warrior. Indeed, God answered her prayers. We thank God for her life, we thank God for your life. It is not all that aspire that get to the level of aspiration. But at God’s own time, everything falls in place for you. This is largely due to Mama’s prayers.
“I lost my mother about two years ago now. You came for the celebration. I know I am missing her motherly advice, I know you will miss your Mum too. So, you have my sympathy. You are my senior in the legal profession. As a Life Bencher, you are my leader.
“My friends and I came to commiserate with you. Regardless of how old they are, we will still miss them, the motherly love and care. But the good Lord that kept her to that level will continue to look after you and your siblings.
“It doesn’t matter how old you think you are, I pray that as long as you live, you will never mourn your children. You have been successful, your children will be more successful. You are well known in this country, your children will be well known better across the world.
“I appreciate you for your courage. You have led us very well in this State. I am particularly enamored with your activism. You are the only Governor talking about our security. You have been defending our people. Thank you, congratulations. You are indeed the leader we deserve.”
Also, prominent Niger Delta leader and entrepreneur, Senior High Chief Bibopere Ajube described the late Lady Evangelist Grace Bosede Akeredolu as a wonderful mother and sister.
Ajube, who led other chiefs and the APC candidate for Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency, Hon. Donald Ojogo on a condolence visit to the Governor, said the Ijaw people will be part of the celebration of life of the late mother of the Governor.
Responding, Governor Akeredolu thanked Adedipe and other members of his team for the visit.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 26, 2022.