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SERAP wants court to stop lawmakers from taking delivery of N57.6bn 360 SUVs

SERAP wants court to stop lawmakers from taking delivery of N57.6bn 360 SUVs

 

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has asked the Federal High Court in Lagos to stop the House of Representatives from procuring and taking delivery of N57.6bn 360 sports utility vehicles (SUVs) for its members, pending the hearing and determination of the applications for injunction filed by the organization.”

 

SERAP’s applications for interim and interlocutory injunction followed reports that the lawmakers are set to procure and take delivery of N57.6 billion SUVs. According to reports, each of the SUVs would cost taxpayers at least N160 million.

 

In the applications filed last week, SERAP is seeking “an order of interim injunction restraining the National Assembly from procuring, taking delivery and distributing the SUVs to their members, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice for an order of interlocutory injunction filed simultaneously in this suit.”

 

SERAP is also seeking “such further order(s) that the Honourable Court may deem fit to make in the circumstance of this suit.”

 

It would be recalled that SERAP in August filed the suit number FHC/L/CS/1606/2023 before the Federal High Court challenging “the legality of the spending of billions of naira by the National Assembly to purchase exotic and bulletproof cars for members and principal officials.”

 

SERAP has also sent an open letter to President Bola Tinubu urging him to “put pressure on the leadership of the House of Representatives and stop members from taking delivery of 360 sports utility vehicles (SUVs), pending the hearing and determination of the application for interim injunction.”

 

In the letter dated 21 October 2023 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation also urged the president to “put pressure on the leadership of the Senate and stop members from taking delivery of the planned procurement of bulletproof SUVs, pending the hearing and determination of the application for interim injunction filed before the Federal High Court.”

 

The letter, read in part: “Allowing the National Assembly to go ahead and purchase and take delivery of the SUVs would prejudice the outcome of the suit pending in court and make a mockery of the rule of law.”

 

“Unless you exercise your executive powers and discharge your constitutional oath of office act as recommended, the lawmakers would go ahead to procure and take delivery of the N57.6 billion vehicles, and thereby present the court with a fait accompli.”

 

“It would invariably hamstring the ability of the court to do justice in the pending suit and applications for injunction.”

 

“Stopping the leadership of the House of Representatives and members from going ahead to procure and take delivery of the SUVs, pending the hearing and determination of the applications for injunction would be entirely consistent with the notions of the rule of law, judicial independence and integrity and the public interest.”

 

“Exercising your constitutional powers in this matter would promote the effective administration of justice and maintain the integrity of the claims against the lawmakers.”

 

“Allowing the House of Representatives to procure and take delivery of the 360 SUVs for its members and the Senate to go ahead with its planned purchase of close to 500 SUVs while the applications for injunction are pending before the court would be detrimental to the rule of law and the public interest.”

 

“It would also be incompatible with the constitutional oath of office. The constitutional oath of office under the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), imposes clear responsibility on you to uphold and maintain the provisions of the constitution and the rule of law.”

 

“In its most basic form, the rule of law is the principle that no one is above the law. Also, section 5 of the Nigerian Constitution grants you the execute powers to ensure the ‘execution and maintenance of this Constitution’.”

 

“The country’s international legal obligations especially under the UN Convention against Corruption and human rights treaties to which Nigeria is a state party also impose a legal commitment on your government to uphold the rule of law and the integrity of the judicial process.”

 

“We would therefore be grateful if the recommended measures are taken upon the receipt and/or publication of this letter.”

 

 

Kolawole Oluwadare

SERAP Deputy Director

22/10/2023

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: +2348160537202

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says Alema of Warri Uduaghan is a perfect gentleman and a leader par excellence

Uduaghan is a perfect gentleman and a leader par excellence, says Alema of Warri

 

 

Former Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has been hailed as an extraordinary leader, an epitome of humility, selflessness and patriotism.

“Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan is a perfect gentleman and a leader par excellence.

In a congratulatory message on Uduaghan’s 69th birthday, the Alema of Warri and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Webster Group of Companies, High Chief Emmanuel 0ritsejolomi Uduaghan, expressed his admiration for the former governor’s wisdom, humility and courage.

 

‘’For exceptional leaders and patriots like you, every birthday is a milestone not just because it is a birthday but also because in your particular case, it brings to the fore your fondness towards family members, visionary ideas, numerous achievements in the country and your enviable record of continually touching the lives of our people in a positive way.

 

He stressed on Uduaghan’s many achievements,

‘’As a moral leader of our nation, political model of our time, a prodigious achiever and gifted statesman, you conducted yourself with morality, integrity and consistency in the two terms you led Delta State’’.

 

He also highlighted Uduaghan’s foresight, visionary ideas and, contributions to nation-building

‘’Dr Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan elevated governance in Delta State’’. the Alema of Warri said.

Speaking on behalf of his family, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Webster Group of Companies extended heartfelt congratulations to Uduaghan on reaching this milestone.

He offered prayers for Uduaghan’s continued service to the country.

‘’On behalf of my family, i wish to felicitate with a strong, dynamic, charismatic, captivating and respectable leader, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan. I wish you good health, long life and God’s guidance as you continue in your contributions to the development of our great nation’’.

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ICPC NJC Reinforce their Existing Collaboration in the Fight against Corruption

ICPC, NJC Reinforce their Existing Collaboration in the Fight against Corruption

 

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the National Judicial Council (NJC) have agreed to reinforce its existing collaboration through the implementation of preventive mechanisms and prohibition of corrupt practices in the judiciary.

The drive for the reinforcement was mooted during the inauguration and induction of nominees of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) held at NJC Office, Abuja.

An Assistant Commissioner who represented the Commission, Mr. Hassan Salihu, noted that ICPC and the judiciary had a strong existing collaboration saying the inauguration of ACTU at NJC would further the ties.

“This event has added advantage to efforts of the ICPC in promoting and entrenching values of integrity, accountability and transparency in government establishments. This Unit being the first to be established in this Council is encouraged to faithfully discharge the ACTU mandate which will in-turn benefit both Management and Staff of the Council.”

The ICPC officer also charged the newly inaugurated ACTU members of the Council to uphold virtues of integrity, while discharging their duties just he warned that the unit was not set up as a parallel authority to the management.

“Let me state clearly that the ACTU is not set up as a parallel authority to management, rather it is expected to operate under the direct oversight of the Executive Secretary, so as to complement management’s effort in promoting transparency and accountability within the Council. We implore management to see the ACTU as a strong complementary initiative whose presence and activities would be beneficial to the Council.”

In his remark, the Executive Secretary of the NJC, Mr. Ahmed Gambo Saleh congratulated the inaugurated members of the ACTU just as he promised that the management of NJC was ready to give them the needed support to deliver on their mandate.

He said “This is a clear testimony of your recognition and I have a strong confidence that you will deliver on the given task. I want to assure you that the Council will also give you the needed support in order to succeed.”

ACTU is mandated to conduct periodic sensitization of staff on corruption; examination of systems, processes and procedures that are prone to corruption and proffering solutions.

It is also tasked with developing or reviewing domesticated Code of Ethics for the Council and ensuring staff compliance with same; monitoring budget implementation; coordinating the deployment of the Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard and other tools as well as undertaking preliminary investigations into complaints/reports received amongst others.

 

Corruption, A Threat to Nigeria’s Socio-Economic Growth, Public Trust – Gov Akeredolu, Owasanoye

*Rep Seeks More Funding for ICPC to Combat Corruption

*ICPC To Offer Support To States to Tackle Corruption – Owasanoye

The Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, and the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Prof Bolaji Owasanoye, SAN, OFR, have identified corruption as a major threat to Nigeria’s socio-economic growth, public trust and rule of law.

Governor Akeredolu and Prof. Owasanoye made this known on Thursday in Akure, Ondo State, at the commissioning of the anti-graft agency’s prototype State Office Building by the governor.

The Governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Catherine Oladunni Odu, advocated collective efforts between the Federal Government and the sub-nationals to mitigate the spread of corruption across every sector of the economy.

“It goes without saying that corruption has eaten deep into the fabric of our national lives and it, therefore, requires collective efforts to mitigate its spread across every sector.

“There is no gainsaying the fact that corruption is yet a general malaise in Nigeria, thus undermining public trust in our institutions, hampering adherence to the rule of law and limiting socio-economic and political advancements,” Akeredolu said.

He also emphasized the need for all Nigerians to come together in order to continue to stem the pervasiveness of corruption in the country.

He further expressed the determination of the State Government to reduce corruption to the barest minimum as well as provide support to the ICPC to achieve its mandate.

In addition, the governor counselled on the need to embrace preventive approach in the fight against corruption, particularly in carrying out more awareness campaigns, seminars and time-to-time interactive engagement of state and non-state actors to drive anti-corruption policies in the state.

“This approach will lead to swift and efficient handling of corruption cases,” Gov. Akeredolu added.

In his welcome address, the ICPC Chairman stated that corruption poses a great impediment to the socio-economic growth and development of any nation.

“Corruption does not only blight the country’s reputation among the comity of nations, but also impedes the flow of Foreign Direct Investments, and a challenge to national security.

“At the sub-national levels, corruption is responsible for the challenges of meeting the primary obligation of government to citizens which is the security and wellbeing of the people,” he said.

Prof. Owasanoye assured that the Commission would offer support to States in tackling corruption.

“The Commission will support the Ondo State Government and any other state to deal with the hydra-headed monster, particularly in prevention, leveraging on our Systems Study and Review, and Corruption Risks Assessment tools to identifying all vulnerabilities to corruption within the systems, and corruption prone procedures that aid and facilitate fraud and exploitation of the system by unscrupulous public and civil servants, and their private sector allies,” he added.

The ICPC boss disclosed that the Commission had also embarked on several initiatives that focus on combating the menace of corruption thereby entrenching transparency and accountability in public systems to ensure that the benefits of good governance cascades to the grassroots.

According to him, the Commission’s Constituency and Executive Project Tracking Initiative (CEPTi) has demonstrated the imperative of citizens participation, open governance and inclusivity in the implementation of the country’s budget as it affects the people, as well as the need for transparent procurement process that should engender value for money.

“Our National Ethics & Integrity Policy (NEIP) initiative driven in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency, and the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation is geared towards addressing the decline of national values. The NEIP speaks to seven Core Values: Human Dignity, Voice and Participation, Patriotism, Personal Responsibility, Integrity, National Unity, and Professionalism.

“It will ensure national cohesion, law and order, security, and safety of person and property, freedoms and duties as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he stated.

He further noted that the Commission with the support of very credible partners had been working incisively to deal with Illicit Financial Flows (IFFs) out of the nation’s shores.

“So far, our Proceeds of Crimes Tracing, Recovery and Management tool has ensured that the corrupt are denied of the luxury of enjoying their loots. The Commission in this regard has in accordance with the recently passed Proceeds of Crime Act 2022 disposed of some of the moveable and immoveable proceeds of crime on which it secured final forfeiture.

“The fight against corruption is a collective responsibility of all and not just of the anti-corruption and other law enforcement agencies. In this regard, we fight corruption as an existential threat to the stability of society and the peace and progress of society. There is no middle course or alternative we either deal with this malady or it will ultimately trigger a social crisis,” the ICPC boss said.

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Anti-Corruption, Hon. Kayode Akiole, commended the Commission for its unwavering dedication to its vital role as the apex body legally mandated to confront corruption and other related offences in Nigeria.

“The Commission’s accomplishments, including notable convictions across various sectors, have fostered a culture of accountability and integrity in our society.

“The ICPC’s forward-thinking initiatives, such as establishment anti-corruption club in schools and engaging young people through the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), demonstrate its commitment to instilling values of transparency and honesty in our youth,” the Representative said.

Hon. Akiole emphasized the need for more funding of the ICPC in order to support the war against corruption.

“It is crucial that we increase the appropriation for the ICPC, recognizing that adequate funding is indispensable in bolstering the Commission’s capacity to combat corruption comprehensively.

“By allocating the necessary resources, we can empower the ICPC to continue its invaluable work, fostering a more transparent and corruption-free Nigeria,” he recommended.

The memorable event featured goodwill messages by representatives of the Chairman, Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption, the Chief Judge of Ondo State and the Speaker of the House of Assembly.

The ICPC’s Ondo State Office is the sixth prototype building to be commissioned since the inception of Professor Bolaji Owasanoye-led Board of the Commission in 2019.

The one-storey facility, which is located at GRA Block A, Plot 3C Oda Road, Akure, has two conference rooms, staff offices, interview rooms, detention facilities, library, store amongst others.

 

 

COURT SENDS PIUS INNOCENT JOEL, DORTIMI OBIAGULLU ABARIOWEI, OKOCHA NDUKA, CLOUD GODSPOWER AGHOGHO, WILSON IFEANYI NWABOR, OGBEMUDIA WISDOM, ORUBURE MICHELLE CYRIL, SUNDAY VICTOR, AKPEVWE EDOGHEJI, EMMANUEL OMEZI CHIEDU, SAMBO DOUBRA, OGRIBI GEORGE OWORO, SUCCESS OGHENEKEVWE JERRY, EBUKA OHIKA OKOLI , NNEMEKA JOSEPH NNAJIOFOR., ADESIOYE AJIBOLA, OMOJEWE SOLOMON, AZUBUDIKE EMEKA KELVIN, CLEVER AFOKOGHENE OLIVER, FAVOUR IGHOATUDU, FAVOUR OGAGAOGHENE EBEBEMORE, ABARIOWEI GODWIN PREYE, ESERRUOMA BISHOP BLESSING, MIRACLE OGONNAYA, AGHOLOR OMOBUDE SIMEON AND DESTINY EMUEJEVOKE. TO PRISON

 

The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes, EFCC, on Tuesday, October17 and Wednesday October 18, 2023 secured the conviction and sentencing of 26 internet fraudsters before Justice Efe Ikponmwonba of the Edo State High Court, Benin City.

The convicts are Pius Innocent Joel, Dortimi Obiagullu Abariowei, Okocha Nduka, Cloud Godspower Aghogho, Wilson Ifeanyi Nwabor, Ogbemudia Wisdom, Orubure Michelle Cyril, Sunday Victor, Akpevwe Edogheji, Emmanuel Omezi Chiedu, Sambo Doubra, Ogribi George Oworo, Success Oghenekevwe Jerry, Ebuka Ohika Okoli and Nnemeka Joseph Nnajiofor.

Others are Adesioye Ajibola, Omojewe Solomon, Azubudike Emeka Kelvin, Clever Afokoghene Oliver, Favour Ighoatudu, Favour Ogagaoghene Ebebemore, Abariowei Godwin Preye, Eserruoma Bishop Blessing, Miracle Ogonnaya, Agholor Omobude Simeon and Destiny Emuejevoke.

They were arraigned separately on one- count charge of unlawful possession of fraudulent documents by the Benin Zonal Command of EFCC.
The charge against Jerry reads: “that you Success Oghenekevwe Jerry on or about 1st August 2023 in Delta State within the jurisdiction of this honourable Court did have in your possession documents which you knew or ought to have known contained false pretence and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 6 of the Advance Fee Fraud Act, 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of same Act.

Upon arraignment, all the defendants pleaded guilty to their respective charges, prompting prosecution counsels: F.A. Jirbo, I.M. Elodi, KY Bello, IK Agwai, Salihu Ahmed and A.A. Ibrahim, to pray the court to convict and sentence them accordingly. However, the defence counsel prayed the court to temper justice with mercy “as the defendants were first time offenders who had been remorseful for his actions.”

Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Joel, Abariowei, Aghogho, Victor, Edogheji, Aworo, Doubra, Solomon, Ajibola , Nnajiofor, Okoli, Preye, Ogonnaya, Simeon, Emuejevoke, Ighoatudu and Ebebemore to three years imprisonment with an option of N200,00 ( Two Hundred Thousand Naira fine)
The judge sentenced Nduka, Nwabor, Wisdom, Cyril, Chiedu, Jerry, Blessing and Oliver to three years imprisonment or a fine of N300,000 (Three Hundred Thousand Naira) while Kelvin bagged two years imprisonment with an option of fine of Two Hundred Thousand Naira.

Preye is to forfeit the sum of N3,123,112.49 ( Three Million, One Hundred and Twenty Three Thousand, One Hundred and Twelve Naira, Forty Nine kobo) found on his bank account while the duo of Ighoatudu and Blessing are to forfeit their Mercedes Benz cars to the Federal Government of Nigeria. The convicts are to forfeit their mobile phones and any monies found in their bank accounts during investigations and being proceeds and instruments of crime to the Federal government of Nigeria through the EFCC.

The convicts bagged their imprisonment when they were arrested by operatives of the Commission based on actionable intelligence regarding their involvement in internet-related activities. They were charged to court and convicted.

Media & Publicity
October 19, 2023

 

Court jails j Shehu Khalifa for internet fraud and impersonation,

 

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Makurdi Zonal Command, on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, secured the conviction and sentencing of one Shehu Khalifa before Justice Abdul Dogo of the Federal High Court sitting in Makurdi, Benue State.

He was jailed after pleading guilty to one – count charge bordering on internet fraud and impersonation, consequent on his arraignment by the Makurdi Zonal Command of the EFCC.

The charge reads, “That you Shehu Khalifa “M” (21 yrs) sometime between January, 2021 and January 2023 in Makurdi Benue State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, fraudulently impersonated one Lucas Smith a Bitcoin investment expert through your nicegram account ID 5694273106 and Facebook account Realkhaleefa and obtained the sum of R$4,000 (Four Thousand Brazilians Real) from one Miss. Andrea, a Brazilian National and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22(2)(b)(i) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention etc) Act, 2015 and punishable under the same Section of the Act”.

He pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.

Following his plea, Justice Dogo convicted and sentenced Khalifa to one year imprisonment with an option of fine of N2,000,000.00 (Two Million Naira only). The convict also forfeited his iPhone 13 Pro Max and Redmii phone used in committing the crime to Federal Government of Nigeria.

Khalifa’s journey to the Correctional Centre started when he was arrested by operatives of the Makurdi Zonal Command of the EFCC, for internet-related offences. He was prosecuted and convicted

Dele Oyewale
Head, Media & Publicity
October 19, 2023

 

Ola Olukoyede resumes

Newly appointed Executive Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Ola Olukoyede assumed office on Thursday, October 19, 2023 with clear-cut agenda of re-positioning and re-focusing the Commission for optimal effectiveness.

The EFCC’s boss, who stepped into the corporate headquarters of the Commission at 10:45a.m, inspected a guard of honours and immediately went into a meeting with the management staff of the EFCC. At the meeting, where hand over notes were delivered to him by the former Acting Chairman of the EFCC, Mr. Abdulkarim Chukkol, Olukoyede warmed up to the staff and unfolded his agenda of reform and rejuvenation of the works of the Commission. The agenda revolves around clearer and robust pursuit of the mandate of the EFCC, creating atmosphere for transparency and accountability in governance, emphasizing preventive strategies in fighting corruption, total adherence to the rule of law and better welfare packages for staff of the Commission.

“We need to address the focus of our mandate. We should use the Commission to drive economic development. Why are we fighting crimes? It is for the system to thrive, for the economy to grow, for the society to get better. Therefore, our focus should be geared towards developing the nation for greater benefits”, he said.

On professionalism, the EFCC’s boss says that, “we are going to drive professionalism in discharging our duties in line with the rule of law. The rule of law is going to be our guiding light. We are going to drive EFCC to a place that when you see EFCC personnel, you will see a touch of professionalism. We are also going to be involved more in prevention, because it is better to save money for the government than to spend money in prosecution”. He particularly stressed the supremacy of the rule of law in the works of the Commission, pointing out that “the EFCC is a creation of the law. Its Act is a legal instrument. This means that, all our activities should be in line with the rule of law. There is nothing we are going to do that will be at variance with the law”.

He called on staff of the Commission to eschew dichotomies, narrowness and disloyalty to themselves, the EFCC and the nation, stressing that, the Commission is legally equipped to be at the forefront of fighting all shades of economic and financial crimes. He assured of a level playing field, equal opportunities for career progression and more rewarding welfare package. “My priority is to enhance staff welfare. We will build on what we have done before and there are prospects that we will do better things for every staff of the Commission”.

The Chairman also called for greater commitment to integrity, diligence, industry and visionary drives in the course of professionalism, promising that staff will be treated according to their level of resourcefulness.

Earlier, in his handover speech, former Acting Chairman, Abdulkareem Chukkol, appreciated members of staff and management for their support during his time in office, while congratulating the Chairman on his “well-deserved appointment”.

“Indeed, I found myself privileged to witness history as it unfolds into the new leadership that takes up the affairs of our great institution”, he said. He particularly thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for trusting him with the leadership of the EFCC in the four months he held sway as an Acting Chairman. “We are grateful to the President for picking one of us, someone who has invested time and intellect in building the Commission to lead us at this time. Being not new to the system, I have no doubt the Executive Chairman will do well”, he said. He urged Olukoyede “to strive to preserve and strengthen the reform and processes of the past few years that has brought some professional satisfaction to personnel of the Commission”.

The Chairman later took a facility tour of the corporate headquarters of the Commission.

Media & Publicity
October 19, 2023

 

Bode Agusto death at a time when Nigeria needs such brilliant patriots to help navigate our worsening economy is undoubtedly shocking and sad – Atiku Abubakar

 

 

I am saddened to hear of the death of Bode Agusto (MON), a foremost economist and outstanding finance genius who founded Nigeria’s first credit rating agency and served Nigeria under our administration as a Special Adviser on Budget Matters.

The budget surpluses we achieved year after year, the reforms of the budgeting process and the idea of spending limits can rightly be credited to him and the other first-class minds that we engaged to serve Nigeria in that glorious era.

His death at a time when Nigeria needs such brilliant patriots to help navigate our worsening economy is undoubtedly shocking and sad.

I pray that God grants his family the fortitude to bear this loss. May his soul rest in peace. -AA

 

 

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPROVES WAIVER OF THE “NO WORK, NO PAY” ORDER ON RESIDENT DOCTORS

Invoking the Principle of the Presidential Prerogative of Mercy, President Bola Tinubu has approved the waiver of the “No Work, No Pay” Order that was instituted against striking members of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) on August 1, 2023, following the commencement of their industrial action which began on July 26, 2023.

After several constructive engagements between the Federal Government and NARD, the Resident Doctors called off their strike on August 12, 2023. The Office of the Accountant General of the Federation was directed to withhold all salaries accrued by striking NARD members during the 17 days of their strike action.

In view of the faithful implementation of terms which were agreed upon during the fruitful deliberations between the Resident Doctors and the Federal Government of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has directed the grant of an exceptional last waiver of the “No Work, No Pay” Order on Resident Doctors, which will allow for the members of the NARD to receive the salaries which were previously withheld during the 17-day strike action.

The President has directed the grant of the waiver with a mandatory requirement that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment must secure a Document of Understanding (DoU) establishing that this exceptional waiver granted by the President will be the last one to be granted to the National Association of Resident Doctors and all other Health Sector Unions.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 20, 2023

 

 

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU TO S/WEST ISLAMIC LEADERS: SACRIFICE IS REQUIRED TO ACHIEVE NIGERIA’S RESTORATION

Speaking during an audience with a delegation of South-West Muslim faithful, led by Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, in Abuja on Friday, the President said the current challenges facing the nation are only temporary, assuring Nigerians that better days are in the offing.

“We have to believe in one country; we have to believe in Nigeria. We will do our best, and our economy will get better for the benefit of Nigerians. I am very sure of that, and we are putting in the work to ensure that,” the President said.

The President noted that the policies and programmes of his administration are aimed at achieving a fairer, better and honest society where hard work is rewarded and where laziness reaps little.

“It is about our future. We must guarantee our future. Almighty Allah will not give us a burden that we cannot bear. He has put us here for a purpose. It may look difficult; even rough, but it will get better. We avoided it (removing petroleum subsidy) for 40 years. We are all going through the pain now, but for Nigeria not to collapse, we had to remove the subsidy.

“In the history of successful nations, there is nothing more vital than the leadership of a nation taking difficult decisions at the right time and for the right reasons. There would have been no money for the subnationals,” the President declared.

President Tinubu commended the leaders for their prayers and support, assuring them that his administration is determined to empower the youth with skills and create an enabling environment for them to prosper.

The President of the Ummah, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, in company of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola, commended President Tinubu for his courage in removing the petroleum subsidy and for initiating necessary, even if difficult reforms.

“There had been no leader, military, or civilian that could break this hard nut of removing petroleum subsidy for us to grow as a country. You have done it. God will see you through,” Alhaji Oladejo said.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

October 20, 2023


Trade and Investment: President Tinubu Confers with South Korean Envoy

 

President Bola Tinubu on Friday in Abuja met with Mr. Won Hee-Ryong, the Special Envoy of the President of South Korea, to discuss the areas in which a further expansion of investment and trade ties across key sectors of Nigeria’s economy can expeditiously occur.

The meeting at the State House was a follow-up to productive discussions between President Tinubu and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol during the G-20 Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi, India.

President Tinubu commended the efforts that have been made in implementing the commitments made during his discussions with President Yoon in India, noting that these commitments are aimed at strengthening the economic and technological partnership frameworks between the two nations.

“I am encouraged that your President acknowledged these requests and emphasized the importance of Nigeria in the African context by sending you as a Special Envoy. Rest assured, we are committed to providing the necessary support to bolster the bilateral relationship that has flourished over the years,” the President said.

With an eye on an increased South Korean presence in the transformation of Nigeria’s national, multi-modal transportation system, President Tinubu also emphasized the need for greater South Korean investment in the establishment of local industries for youth employment and technology transfer as Nigeria seeks to understudy and replicate South Korea’s national transportation system.

He said this project is an important opportunity for fruitful collaboration and the evolution of a pragmatic and dynamic business partnership.

“Nigeria is the largest economy in Africa with an energetic and vibrant youthful population that is eager to make things happen. We must empower them. We are committed to removing any obstacle that may hinder the flow of investments between our two great countries,” the President affirmed.

The Special Envoy delivered President Yoon’s letter to President Tinubu, outlining the South Korean President’s instructions to South Korea’s ministries to diligently implement the important projects discussed during their meeting on the margins of the G-20 Summit, including the conclusion of the Trade and Investment Promotion Framework (TIPF) between both countries.

He also conveyed an invitation to President Tinubu to attend the Africa-Korea Summit scheduled for June 4–5, 2024, in Seoul, while seeking Nigeria’s support for South Korea’s bid to host Expo 2030 in Busan, South Korea.

 

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 20, 2023


President Tinubu Appoints Two New Chief Executive Officers in the Health

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of two (2) new Chief Executive Officers of Agencies under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare:

Executive Secretary / CEO, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) — Dr. Muyi Aina

Director-General / CEO, National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) — Dr. Kelechi Ohiri

Dr. Muyi Aina is a globally renowned public health leader with a Masters in Public Health degree from Harvard University (USA) and a Doctorate degree from Johns Hopkins University (USA), following his first medical certification at the University of Ilorin.

Dr. Kelechi Ohiri most recently served as the Managing Director for Strategy at Global Alliance for Vaccines in Geneva, Switzerland. He obtained a Masters in Public Health degree from Harvard University (USA) and another Masters degree in Public Policy from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government following his first medical certification from the University of Lagos. He has obtained significant experience serving in the World Bank, McKinsey & Company, and has shaped reforms to the National Health Service (NHS) of the United Kingdom.

President Bola Tinubu urges the new leadership of these two critical agencies in the sector to prioritize quality, fairness, and accountability in the provision of world-class health care to all segments of the Nigerian society.

 

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 20, 2023


President Tinubu Celebrates Oba of Benin at 70

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu warmly felicitates the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II, as he marks his 70th birthday and seventh coronation anniversary.

President Tinubu rejoices with the Government and people of Edo State, the Royal Family, Benin Traditional Council, and most especially, the Benin people as their highly revered traditional ruler turns 70.

“You have served Nigeria in different capacities, especially as an ambassador of our great country. You are an ardent supporter of the nation’s war against human trafficking. Your steadfast collaboration with the Federal Government in ensuring that stolen artefacts are returned to the country is remarkable. Most importantly, Your Majesty’s words of advice for successive administrations stand you out as a lover of peace.

“As the custodian of the cherished customs and traditions of the Benin Kingdom and its people, I enjoin you to continue to use your exalted position and divine endowments for the promotion of arts, culture, and the values that the Benin Kingdom and the Nigerian people hold as sacrosanct,” the President stated.

President Bola Tinubu wishes the Oba many more years of good health and fulfillment on the throne.

 

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 20, 2023


President Tinubu Appoints New Auditor–General of the Federation

By powers vested in him by Section 86 of the 1999 Constitution (Amended), President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Mr. Shaakaa Chira as the substantive Auditor-General of the Federation, as recommended by the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC).

The President approved Mr. Chira’s appointment after the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) conducted a screening exercise that identified Mr. Chira as the most qualified candidate who had also scored the highest in the examination amongst all qualified candidates for the office.

President Bola Tinubu expects the new Auditor-General to justify the confidence reposed in him and to live up to the high expectations that Nigerians have concerning the execution of the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration.

 

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 20, 2023


President Tinubu Approves Partial Waiver of the “No Work, No Pay” Order on ASUU Members, Orders Release of Four Months of Withheld Salary

Invoking the Principle of the Presidential Prerogative of Mercy, President Bola Tinubu has approved the partial waiver of the “No Work, No Pay” Order that was instituted against striking members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) following the commencement of their eight-month industrial action which began on February 14, 2022 and was terminated on October 17, 2022.

In view of his determination to mitigate the difficulties being felt during the implementation of key economic reforms in the country, as well as his recognition of the faithful implementation of terms which were agreed upon during the fruitful deliberations between ASUU and the Federal Government of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has directed the grant of an exceptional last waiver of the “No Work, No Pay” Order on ASUU, which will allow for the previously striking members of ASUU to receive four (4) months of salary accruals out of the eight months of salary which was withheld during the eight-month industrial action undertaken by the union.

The President has directed the grant of the waiver with a mandatory requirement that the Federal Ministry of Education and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment must secure a Document of Understanding (DoU) establishing that this exceptional waiver granted by the President will be the last one to be granted to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and all other Education Sector Unions.

 

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 20, 2023


President Tinubu Mourns Ambassador Mansur Bamalli

President Bola Tinubu is deeply saddened by the demise of Ambassador Mansur Nuhu Bamalli, the Chargé d’Affaires in the Embassy of Nigeria in Rabat, Morocco. The distinguished diplomat passed away on Friday at the age of 42.

The President has expressed his sympathy and condolences to the Emir of Zazzau, HRH Alhaji Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, on the passing of the Ambassador, who is his brother.

Apart from serving as Nigeria’s Chargé d’Affaires in Rabat, Morocco until his death, Ambassador Bamalli also served in Nigerian Missions across multiple continents, including Dublin, Ireland; Accra, Ghana; as well as the State House and various Departments in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during his accomplished career in the Foreign Service.

The President joins the Bamalli family, the Zazzau Emirate community, and members of the Nigerian Foreign Service in mourning the loss of the Magajin Garin Zazzau, describing the deceased Nigerian as an astute diplomat and Foreign Service Officer.

President Bola Tinubu notes that colleagues, friends and admirers of the departed Ambassador in the Diplomatic Service and Zazzau Emirate will always fondly remember him for his humility, kindness, team spirit, dedication and resilience in the face of challenges.

The President prays Almighty Allah to grant the highly respected diplomat eternal rest and comfort for his family and loved ones who are grieving this irreplaceable loss.

 

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 20, 2023

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call ex-speaker Okpe’s greatest asset congratulate Igbuya Delta leaders praise Tinubu

Delta leaders praise Tinubu, congratulate Igbuya, call ex-speaker Okpe’s greatest asset

Key leaders in Delta State on Sunday praised President Bola Tinubu for increasing the reputation of the country’s ruling party in Delta State through the appointment of former Secretary to Delta State Government, Mr Chiedu Ebie and the former speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Monday Igbuya.

They also described Tinubu’s action as wise and good.

‘’This is the best thing that has happened to us. We are very pleased with this development’’.

In a statement in Asaba, the highly respected leaders urged Igbuya to chart a new direction for the people, provide basic infrastructure and put in place structures that will stimulate growth and development in the oil rich state.

Particularly, the leaders urged Igbuya to focus on substantive issues which relate to the welfare of the people and the development of the state.

They listed education, employment, provision of roads and potable water, healthcare and rural electrification as key issues that must be addressed by the Commission.

The statement by the Chairman of Delta Unity Forum, Darlington Ebireri, described the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) representative as honest, decent and excellent politician.

‘’We value the exceptional.  Rt Hon Igbuya has roundly demonstrated that he is a grassroots politician, patriot and one with a genuine love for Delta State’’.

The statement listed quickness in decision making, intellectual perception and leadership as the qualities of the former speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.

It also listed generosity, a deep affection and concern for his people and consideration for women.

The statement emphasised how much the action of the former speaker contributed to the greatness of Delta State and produced so many beneficial results.

It also emphasised the former speaker’s personal magnetism, forthright manner, courage, dignity and success.

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Atiku’s petition against Tinubu: Supreme Court fixes date for hearing

Atiku’s petition against Tinubu: Supreme Court fixes date for hearing

 

The Supreme Court has fixed the date for the hearing petition of Abubarkar Atiku, the Peoples Democratic Party’s candidate in the 2023 presidential election, against President Bola Tinubu’s election.

The apex court fixed Monday, October 23 for the hearing of the case.

The PDP candidate on September 19 filed 35 grounds appeal challenging the verdict of the presidential election petitions which upheld Tinubu’s victory in the election.

 

The five-member panel headed by Justice Hassan Tsammani on September 6 dismissed the petitions filed by Atiku and his Labour Party counterpart, Peter Obi, for lack of merit.

The former Vice President had also applied to the Supreme Court to file fresh evidence obtained from the Chicago State University against the president.

Atiku has continued to insist that Tinubu’s academic records are fraught with discrepancies and forgery and asked the apex court to kick him out of office.

 

PRESS RELEASE

NEW HOME, CAR OWNERS EMERGE AS COWLSO ENDS THREE-DAY WOMEN’S CONFERENCE

… Lagos Progress lies in the empowerment, participation of women, says Sanwo-Olu

 

 

As the 23rd edition of the National Women’s Conference organized by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), ends today, a new landlady of a 3-bedroom apartment in the Sangotedo area of Lagos State and a brand-new GAC salon car owner, have emerged in the Raffle Draw section of the Conference, among other star prize winners.

 

 

The winner of the 3-bedroom apartment at LagosHoms, Sangotedo, Mrs. Adu Oluwatoyin, was announced by Governor Sanwo-Olu after spinning the Raffle Draw Box to pick the winning number, While the winner of a brand-new GAC salon car;

Mrs. Ibitoye Kudirat was announced by the Chairman of COWLSO and the wife of the Governor, Dr. Mrs. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu uses the same process.

 

 

Aside the above winners, two other participants at the Conference won travel tickets worth N1.5Million and N2.5Million respectively, in addition to other winners of different household items.

 

 

Addressing the participants at the closing ceremony of the 2023 edition of the National Women’s Conference (NWC) of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), on Thursday, Governor Sanwo-Olu reiterated that the theme of the Conference, “Unleash Your Potential,” is a reminder that everyone possesses the ability to make a difference, no matter the background or circumstances.

 

 

The Governor who congratulated the various Raffle Draw winners, especially the new homeowner who is one of the delegates from Ondo State, said that the emergency of Mrs. Adu as the winner of the three-bedroom apartment shows that the Raffle Draw process was transparent and open.

 

 

Sanwo-Olu, represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr.  Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, said that the various women and other individuals who were recognized at the event by COWLSO, are shining examples of what it means to unleash one’s potential, by making us believe that anything is possible with determination, resilience, and a heart full of passion.

 

 

“Oluwatimileyin Edwin, Adamson Basirat Oriyomi, and Hajiya Idayaa, we salute your unwavering dedication to the betterment of our society. Your stories and achievements serve as a beacon of hope for all, particularly the young women who aspire to reach greater heights. Your hard work, leadership, and your pursuit of excellence have left an indelible mark on Lagos State and the nation as a whole.

 

 

“We did not forget the invaluable contributions of the outstanding men who have received recognition in this conference for their unwavering commitment to the development of Lagos State. Hakeem Muri-Okunola, the immediate past Head of Service of Lagos State, and Mr. Ayo Subair, the Executive Chairman of the Lagos Internal Revenue Service, have been champions in ensuring the progress and prosperity of our great state.” Sanwo-Olu stated.

 

 

The Governor emphasized that the progress of Lagos State, and indeed any society, is intrinsically tied to the empowerment and participation of its women. ‘It is not a question of if women should have a seat at the table; it is recognizing that they have always been essential to its foundation,’ Sanwo-Olu stated.

 

 

He urged the participants at the conference to embrace the spirit of empowerment and the belief that their potential is boundless, either as a professional, a businesswoman, a mother, or a leader, your potential is boundless.

 

 

“Let us leave this Conference with the commitment to unleash our potential and be the catalysts for the change that Lagos State and Nigeria needs. Let us continue to work together, irrespective of gender, to build a brighter, more equitable future for all. I wish all of you a safe journey back to your respective destinations.”

 

 

In his remarks to close the National Women’s Conference, the Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Abdeulkadir represented by his Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Auwal Jatau commended COWLSO for conceptualizing and executing an exceptional conference, noting that this initiative poised towards empowering women, promoting gender equality and fostering the spirit of collaboration among other States is highly commendable.

 

 

He noted that all hands must be on deck to confront Gender inequality and other women-related barriers that exist, emphasizing the need for equal opportunities for women in all facets of life. “Prompt action is required to eliminate the various obstacles women face” He added.

 

 

The Deputy Governor stressed that the various conversations discussed at the conference will further inspire women and lead to meaningful change and progress in the lives of women across the Federation.

 

 

Earlier, the First Lady of Lady State and Chairman, Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), Dr. (Mrs) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu explained that this year’s conference had witnessed topnotch presentations and in-depth analysis from brilliant minds and industry experts who shared their thoughts and experiences on relevant topics in furtherance of the agenda to ensure that women make the best of their strength and capabilities as pillars in our various homes and society.

 

She said that the conference has addressed various challenges affecting women in today’s world, expressing confidence that the various conversations at the conference will further inspire women to unleash their potentials and influence the society significantly.

 

 

The First Lady advised the women and all participants to effectively utilize the various skills and network garnered at the conference, concluding by appreciating top government functionaries, public and private partners who have collaborated with COWLSO to ensured that the 23RD National Women’s Conference is a success.

 

NWONAH Olubukonla

Deputy Director, Public Affairs

19 October, 2023

 

 

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPOINTS NEW LEADERSHIP ACROSS THE INFORMATION AND NATIONAL ORIENTATION SECTORS

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of eight ( new Chief Executive Officers for Parastatals and Agencies under the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation:

(1) National Orientation Agency (NOA) — Director-General / CEO — Mr. Lanre Issa-Onilu

(2) Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) — Director-General / CEO — Mr. Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos

(3) Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) — Director-General / CEO — Dr. Muhammed Bulama

(4) National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) — Director-General / CEO — Mr. Charles Ebuebu

(5) Voice of Nigeria (VON) — Director-General / CEO — Mr. Jibrin Baba Ndace

(6) Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) — Director-General / CEO — Dr. Lekan Fadolapo

(7) News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) — Managing Director / CEO — Mr. Ali Muhammed Ali

( Nigerian Press Council (NPC) — Executive Secretary / CEO — Mr. Dili Ezughah

The President tasks the newly entrusted leadership in these important sub-sectors to innovate and create new opportunities for Nigerians to leverage upon through the effective reform of these key institutions of government which function to unify our people, reshape mindsets, and showcase this great nation to the rest of the world.

By these directives of the President, the above listed appointments take immediate effect.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 19, 2023

 

 

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU DIRECTS WITHDRAWAL OF FERMA CHAIRMANSHIP NOMINATION

President Bola Tinubu has directed the withdrawal of the nomination of Engr. Imam Kashim Imam to serve as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA).

The President’s withdrawal of the above-mentioned nomination is directed with immediate effect.

All other appointments to the Board and Executive Management team of FERMA are not affected by this directive.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 19, 2023

 

 

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPOINTS NEW NADF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Mr. Muhammed Abu Ibrahim to serve as the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF).

The President expects the new leadership at the Fund to successfully remove all barriers to efficient access to provisional funding in the sector for proven stakeholders nationwide who will credibly contribute to the Renewed Hope Agenda’s mandate in the attainment of complete self-sufficiency in local food production and eventual surplus export.

By this directive of the President, the above-mentioned appointment takes immediate effect.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 19, 2023

 

 

FG to close Third Mainland Bridge from Saturday, October 21, 2023 to Sunday, October 22, 2023 for repairs

 

 

The Federal Government on Thursday announced that the Third Mainland Bridge will be close to traffic from Saturday, October 21, 2023 to Sunday, October 22, 2023 for repairs.

 

The Federal Controller of Works, Lagos, Engr O. I. Kesha, who made this known in a statement, encouraged motorists to use alternative routes during the period of the palliative works.

 

Motorists had cried out over the deplorable state of some portions of the bridge which spans over 11.8km. The bridge reported to be the busiest in Nigeria alongside the Eko Bridge and the Carter Bridge connect Victoria Island to the mainland Lagos and has undergone several repairs in recent years.

 

Reacting, Kesha said the government is currently working on plans to carry out comprehensive repairs of Third Mainland Bridge.

“However, in order to alleviate the pains currently being experienced on the bridge, the Ministry would be carrying out palliative works on the most critically failed sections along the Adeniji bound carriageway on Sunday, 22nd October, 2023 preparatory to the comprehensive repair works,” the statement partly read.

“In view of the foregoing, the motoring public are advised to cooperate with the traffic management officials by obeying and observing all diversions as directed.

“However, motorists are encouraged to use alternative routes where possible during the period of the palliative works as the Adeniji bound of the bridge will be closed to traffic from Saturday ,21st October 2023 to Sunday, 22nd 12midnight.”

 

Tinubu appoints new NAN MD, others in the Information Ministry

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Mr Ali Muhammed Ali as the new Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

 

This is contained in a statement by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, on Thursday in Abuja.

 

The other new leadership of the departments and agencies in the Ministry of Information and National Orientation are:

 

(1) National Orientation Agency (NOA) — Director-General /CEO — Mr Lanre Issa-Onilu

 

(2) Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) — Director-General/CEO — Mr Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos

 

(3) Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) — Director-General/CEO — Dr Muhammed Bulama

 

(4) National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) — Director-General/CEO — Mr Charles Ebuebu

 

(5) Voice of Nigeria (VON) — Director-General / CEO — Mr Jibrin Baba Ndace

 

(6) Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) — Director-General / CEO — Dr Lekan Fadolapo

 

(7) Nigerian Press Council (NPC) — Executive Secretary / CEO — Mr Dili Ezughah

 

The President tasked the new leadership to innovate and create new opportunities for Nigerians to leverage on through the effective reform of these key institutions of government.

 

He added that these institutions function to unify the people, reshape mindsets, and showcase Nigeria to the rest of the world.

 

The appointments of the new leadership take immediate effect.

 

 

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU, ABIODUN, DANGOTE, OTHERS BID AKINTOLA WILLIAMS FAREWELL

  • He was an outstanding Nigerian, big Lagosian, says Lagos Governor

 

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday joined his Ogun State counterpart, Prince Dapo Abiodun and Chairman of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, among other eminent Nigerians, for the funeral service of the first indigenous chartered accountant in Nigeria and elder statesman, Chief Akintola Williams.

 

The funeral service held at the Shell Hall of the Muson Centre, Onikan by the Wesley Cathedral Olowogbowo, Lagos, was also attended by former Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun; founder of Zenith Bank, Mr. Jim Ovia and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, General Ike Nwachukwu (rtd), cap­tains of industry, bank execu­tives, bishops, priests, family, friends and associates of the deceased both home and abroad.

 

Speaking at the funeral service, Governor Sanwo-Olu, described the late Williams as an outstanding Nigerian and big Lagosian.

 

He said: “At 104, how well would you describe a man that God first blessed with a long life and for a very long time, good health, and he had shown leadership at all levels? He was an outstanding Nigerian; a man who took his professional colleagues to enviable level worldwide.

 

“He was also a lover of God, a churchgoer, and a man who built the altar of a church. He had all of the pillars to tick as a good man. We can only wish the family all the very best.

 

“To the country, we have lost an outstanding Nigerian and for us in Lagos, we lost a big Lagosian. We will continue to have memories of the hospitable life that he lived. I will miss him personally. I believe he lived a good life.”

 

Also speaking, Governor Abiodun said the footprint of the late Akintola Williams will remain in the sand of time for many years because of what he stood for during his lifetime.

 

He said: “Baba (Akintola Williams) was an exceptional Nigerian because the Almighty God granted him the grace to live up to 104 years old. I am not sure we know many Nigerians that lived that long.

 

“He was a man after God’s heart. He was a big philanthropist and a lover of music. He was a man whose footprint will remain in the sand of time for many years for all that he stood for.

 

“On behalf of the government and the entire people of Ogun State and my family, we commiserate, congratulate and celebrate with the members of Baba’s immediate family and friends, the government and people of Lagos State, and of course Nigeria at large. We pray that God Almighty will grant the family and well-wishers the heart to bear the colossal loss.”

 

In his sermon, the Prelate Emeritus of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Sunday Makinde, urged family, friends and associates to immortalise the deceased by supporting the Akintola Williams Centenary Building Project of the Church.

 

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

19 OCTOBER 2023

 

 

JULIUS BERGER PROJECTS: “We are looking forward to a successful partnership, great achievement and the commencement of a new era to the benefit of the people of Delta state.”

 

– Julius Berger MD, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter as Delta State Government and construction leader sign contract for construction of multiple flyover projects in Effurun, Warri.

 

Delta State Government and frontline engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, on Wednesday, signed a N78 billion contract for the construction of flyovers, cloverleaf and road expansion projects in Effurun and Warri metropolis of the state.

 

At the historic event, the State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori said the choice of Julius Berger was informed not only by their excellent record but also by their experience in road construction, particularly in riverine terrains. Governor Oborevwori said the signing ceremony was a culmination of days and months of critical planning and deft negotiations and a major step forward in his administration’s plan to start an infrastructural revolution that would change the face of Warri and environs. “Today’s event is the high point of months of vigorous planning, meetings, reviews and tough negotiations. I am pleased that we have reached a point of agreement,” he said.

 

Continuing, the Governor said, “…it is pertinent to know that this is the first time in Delta State that we are engaging Julius Berger Plc in construction jobs. They have been in Delta, they worked in NPA, but this is the first time the state government is engaging them for construction projects. “On behalf of the government and the people of Delta state, I want to express my deep appreciation to Julius Berger PLC, the Ministries of Works (Highway and Urban roads), Justice, Finance and the Office of the Secretary to the State Government for the countless energy invested in the process.”

 

The Governor said the choice of Julius Berger was informed not only by their excellent performance records but also by their experience in road construction in riverine terrains. He tasked the contractor to deliver the projects within 27 months. “We have seen what they have done in other states with topography like Warri and we are confident that they will replicate the same feat here.”
Governor Oborevwori added that upon completion, these projects will not only change the face of Warri and its environs, but also ease the traffic congestion in the area and alleviate the hardship faced by commuters.

 

 

 

On the good multiplier effect and positive collateral benefits of the projects to Deltans, Oborevwori said, “…it is often the case with road construction projects, there will be direct employment benefits for our people, especially, engineers, artisans and even food vendors. Transporters and so many others in the construction value chain also stand to benefit.”

 

The contracts include road expansion of a section of DSC/NPA Expressway, including a Cloverleaf Interchange at the existing Effurun flyover, alongside two pedestrian bridges, Flyover bridges at Enerhen junction to Marine Gate, DSC roundabout and PTI junction.

 

The Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, and  the Honourable Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads),  Comrade Reuben Izeze, signed on behalf of the State Government, while the  Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Dr Lars Richter, and the  Regional Manager, Engr Friedrich Wieser, signed for the construction giant.

 

While thanking Delta State Government for giving the company the opportunity to deliver on the projects, Julius Berger Managing Director commended Governor Oborevwori for the vision and foresight in a huge investment and for the commencement of a new era for the people of the state. “We commend the Delta State Government for these projects, and we are honoured to be the chosen technical partners for the delivery of this vision. We are also looking forward to a successful partnership, a great achievement of the vision and the commencement of a new era to the benefit of the people of Delta state,” he said.

 

The Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr Omamuzo Erebe,  and  the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Engr Fred Edafioghor, witnessed the signing.

 

The Julius Berger team to the event in Asaba led by the Managing Director also included the company’s Regional Manager, South-south/South-east operations, Dr. Fiedrich Wieser, the Head of Contract management, Barrister (Mrs) Omonigho Brown, the Head of Media Relations, Prince Moses Duku, Esq; and Security Manager, Ferdinand Ugbomeh.

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great achievement and the commencement of a new era to the benefit of the people of Delta state.” JULIUS BERGER PROJECTS: “We are looking forward to a successful partnership

JULIUS BERGER PROJECTS: “We are looking forward to a successful partnership, great achievement and the commencement of a new era to the benefit of the people of Delta state.”

 

– Julius Berger MD, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter as Delta State Government and construction leader sign contract for construction of multiple flyover projects in Effurun, Warri.

 

Delta State Government and frontline engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, on Wednesday, signed a N78 billion contract for the construction of flyovers, cloverleaf and road expansion projects in Effurun and Warri metropolis of the state.

 

At the historic event, the State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori said the choice of Julius Berger was informed not only by their excellent record but also by their experience in road construction, particularly in riverine terrains. Governor Oborevwori said the signing ceremony was a culmination of days and months of critical planning and deft negotiations and a major step forward in his administration’s plan to start an infrastructural revolution that would change the face of Warri and environs. “Today’s event is the high point of months of vigorous planning, meetings, reviews and tough negotiations. I am pleased that we have reached a point of agreement,” he said.

 

Continuing, the Governor said, “…it is pertinent to know that this is the first time in Delta State that we are engaging Julius Berger Plc in construction jobs. They have been in Delta, they worked in NPA, but this is the first time the state government is engaging them for construction projects. “On behalf of the government and the people of Delta state, I want to express my deep appreciation to Julius Berger PLC, the Ministries of Works (Highway and Urban roads), Justice, Finance and the Office of the Secretary to the State Government for the countless energy invested in the process.”

 

The Governor said the choice of Julius Berger was informed not only by their excellent performance records but also by their experience in road construction in riverine terrains. He tasked the contractor to deliver the projects within 27 months. “We have seen what they have done in other states with topography like Warri and we are confident that they will replicate the same feat here.”
Governor Oborevwori added that upon completion, these projects will not only change the face of Warri and its environs, but also ease the traffic congestion in the area and alleviate the hardship faced by commuters.

 

 

 

On the good multiplier effect and positive collateral benefits of the projects to Deltans, Oborevwori said, “…it is often the case with road construction projects, there will be direct employment benefits for our people, especially, engineers, artisans and even food vendors. Transporters and so many others in the construction value chain also stand to benefit.”

 

The contracts include road expansion of a section of DSC/NPA Expressway, including a Cloverleaf Interchange at the existing Effurun flyover, alongside two pedestrian bridges, Flyover bridges at Enerhen junction to Marine Gate, DSC roundabout and PTI junction.

 

The Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, and  the Honourable Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads),  Comrade Reuben Izeze, signed on behalf of the State Government, while the  Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Dr Lars Richter, and the  Regional Manager, Engr Friedrich Wieser, signed for the construction giant.

 

While thanking Delta State Government for giving the company the opportunity to deliver on the projects, Julius Berger Managing Director commended Governor Oborevwori for the vision and foresight in a huge investment and for the commencement of a new era for the people of the state. “We commend the Delta State Government for these projects, and we are honoured to be the chosen technical partners for the delivery of this vision. We are also looking forward to a successful partnership, a great achievement of the vision and the commencement of a new era to the benefit of the people of Delta state,” he said.

 

The Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr Omamuzo Erebe,  and  the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Engr Fred Edafioghor, witnessed the signing.

 

The Julius Berger team to the event in Asaba led by the Managing Director also included the company’s Regional Manager, South-south/South-east operations, Dr. Fiedrich Wieser, the Head of Contract management, Barrister (Mrs) Omonigho Brown, the Head of Media Relations, Prince Moses Duku, Esq; and Security Manager, Ferdinand Ugbomeh.

 

Delta, Julius Berger sign N78b flyovers, road expansion contracts

 

Delta State Government and German construction giant,  Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Wednesday, signed N78billion contracts for the construction of flyovers, cloverleaf and road expansion projects in Effurun and Warri metropolis of the state.

 

The contracts include road expansion of a section of DSC/NPA Expressway, including a Cloverleaf Interchange at the existing Effurun flyover, alongside two pedestrian bridges, Flyover bridges at Enerhen junction to Marine Gate, DSC roundabout and PTI junction.

 

The Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, and  the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads),  Comrade Reuben Izeze, signed on behalf of the State Government, while the  Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Dr Lars Richter, and the  Regional Manager, Engr Friedrich Wieser, signed for the construction giant.

 

The Solicitor- General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr Omamuzo Erebe,  and  the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Engr Fred Edafioghor, witnessed the signing.

 

Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori said the signing ceremony was a culmination of days and months of critical planning and deft negotiations and a major step forward in his administration’s plan to start an infrastructural revolution that would change the face of Warri and environs.

 

He said: “Today’s event is the high point of months of vigorous planning,  meetings, reviews and tough negotiations. I am pleased that we have reached a point of agreement.

 

“It is pertinent to know that this is the first time in Delta State that we are engaging Julius Berger Plc in construction jobs. They have been in Delta, they worked in NPA, but this is the first time the state government is engaging them for construction projects.

 

“On behalf of the government and the people of Delta state, I want to express my deep appreciate to Julius Berger PLC, the Ministries of Works(High way and Urban roads), Justice, Finance and the Office of the Secretary to the State Government; for the countless energy invested in the process.

 

“I am aware that the road to this signing ceremony was tasking and draining but you stayed on course and, today, we are reaping the fruit of your diligence and resilience,” he said.

 

The Governor who said the choice of Julius Berger was informed not only by their excellent record but also by their experience in road construction in riverine terrains, tasked the contractor to deliver the projects within  27 months.

 

“We have seen what they have done in other states with topography like Warri and we are confident that they will replicate the same feat here.

 

“Upon completion, these projects will not only change the face of Warri and its environs, but also ease the traffic congestion in the area and alleviate the hardship faced by the commuters.

 

“As it is often the case with road constructions of this nature, there will be direct employment benefits for our people, especially, engineers, artisans and even food vendors. Transporters and so many others in the construction value chain also stand to benefit.

 

“I assure all Deltans and residents of the state that the M.O.R.E agenda is on course. They should expect more landmark projects across the different senatorial districts in fulfilment of our pledge to make life more meaningful to our people,” Oborevwori stated.

 

Richter, while thanking Delta State Government for giving the company the opportunity to deliver on the projects, commended Governor Oborevwori for the vision and foresight in a huge investment and for the commencement of a new era for the people of the state.

 

“We commend the Delta State Government for this and we are honoured to be the chosen partners for the construction of this vision.

 

“We are also looking forward for a successful partnership, a great achievement and the commencement of a new era to the benefit of the people of Delta state,” he said.

 

 

 

 

Oborevwori congratulates Delta NUJ Chairman, Oyowe

 

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori,  has congratulated the newly elected State Executive Committee (SEC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) led by Comrade Churchill Oyowe.

 

Oborevwori, whose congratulatory message was conveyed in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon in Asaba, also congratulated Felix Ekwu,; Vice Chairman; Victor Sorokwu, State Secretary; Josephine Omordio, Assistant Secretary; Caroline Ubini, Treasurer; Polycarb Orosevwotu, Financial Secretary, and

Celestine Afokobah, Auditor.

 

He expressed optimism that Oyowe would contribute his quota to the growth and advancement of the journalism profession in the state, given his wealth of experience as a former State Secretary of the Union.

 

The governor, who assured the union of his support at all times, urged the new NUJ leadership to key into his administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda and to lead the body of journalists to accelerate the development of the state.

 

The Governor also congratulated the immediate past State Council, led by Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, for their outstanding service to the union and the state.

 

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I congratulate Comrade Churchill Oyowe and other members of the newly elected State Executive Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on their victory at the just concluded polls.

 

“Your emergence at this time is significant and momentous in view of your sterling contributions to the growth and development of journalism as a former State Secretary of the Council.

 

“As you and your POWER team settle down to provide leadership for the State Council, I must charge you to rally round your other colleagues who lost in the election and work as a united and indivisible union.

 

“As a state government, we would continue to partner  members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm as we strive to revolutionise governance in our state by providing landmark infrastructure across Delta State.

 

“The NUJ, under your astute leadership, must strive to continue playing the critical role guaranteed by the Constitution as societal watchdogs and agents of good governance and accountability,” Oborevwori stated.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oborevwori leading by example – South-South, PDP Chair

 

The South-South Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Dan Orbih, says Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State is a shining example of what leadership is all about.

 

Orbih stated this Wednesday, when he led the South-South zonal working Committee of the party on a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House, Asaba.

 

Orbih said they were in the state to formally congratulate Governor Oborevwori on his victory at the poll and its subsequent affirmation at the election petitions tribunal.

 

He described Governor Oborevwori as a product and symbol of loyalty and commitment to the party and commended him for his outstanding accomplishments in just a few months of being in office as governor.

 

“As the immediate past Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, your wealth of experience alone has placed the state on good stead for a harmonious working relationship between the executive and the legislature.

 

” Now the elections are over and it is time for you to deliver on your campaign promises and we have observed with satisfaction the steps you have taken since you took over.

 

“You are building roads and bridges and you have shown great example of what leadership is all about,” he added.

 

He lamented the poor state of  federal roads in the region and commended Oborevwori for not abandoning critical federal roads in the state and urged other state governments to emulate the Governor’s leadership example.

 

“Today in the South-South zone, it is difficult for people to travel from one state to another but we thank you for not abandoning the federal link roads in Delta State which you have been repairing because of your love for Deltans.

 

“We urge other states to emulate your kind gesture because our people in the South-South zone are going through very difficult times  because of the poor state of federal roads. You have shown good example and I believe others will emulate what you are doing in Delta.”

 

He said with Governor Douye Diri’s sterling performance in Bayelsa, PDP was set to retain the state in the coming governorship election.

 

Orbih said the South South remained the stronghold of the party in the country and assured that from the steps taken so far by Oborevwori as Governor of Delta, the people stood to gain immensely from his M.O.R.E Agenda.

 

He added, “From the steps you have taken so far as Governor of Delta State, we have no doubt that the people will benefit immensely from your M.O.R.E Agenda.

 

Responding, Governor Oborevwori thanked the party hierarchy for their support, assuring that he would continue to do his best to provide sterling leadership for the people of the state who trusted him with their mandate.

 

He commended Orbih for his support to Bayelsa Governor’s re-election, saying that the party had performed creditably in the state.

 

“Chief Dan Orbih is somebody that l know and once he believes in something, he stands by it. When l wanted to contest for governorship election, l went to his house to seek his blessing and from that date, he followed up with my ambition.

 

“I am happy that you have taken a very bold step by going to Bayelsa to support our own brother who is doing extremely well.

 

“Governor Douye Diri is a very good leader who has done a lot for his people. When you get to Bayelsa, you will see quite a lot of impressive projects. Even with the bad terrain, you can see that he has constructed roads and even a flyover and a bridge.

 

“So, he has done very well. He is a very popular man that has been accepted by his people and l believe that, by the special grace of God, victory will come to PDP,” he said.

 

He said his administration had done quite a lot in the past few months, assuring that better days awaited Deltans in terms of infrastructural development across the state.

 

“Here in Delta State, we have done a lot in the last four months of our administration. We have completed and inaugurated some projects in the state and there are a lot of ongoing projects that we are executing.

 

“My administration will not abandon any ongoing project and we will also initiate new ones to advance the development of the state.

 

“Today, we have signed a contract agreement with Julius Berger which amounted to approximately N78 billion. By next month, we shall do the ground-breaking ceremony for the projects in Warri and Effurun areas of the state and we shall invite you to the ceremony when we are ready.

 

“Delta State is PDP. The Minister of 2?Works came to the state and saw that the Benin/Sapele Road is bad and even the East West Road is bad. Even the Minister for Niger Delta also visited and saw that the roads are bad.

 

“Because of the deplorable state of the Sapele/Amukpe/Agbor Road, l have directed that the  contractor should do palliative works on the old road which is about 36 kilometres, to alleviate the plight of road users.

 

“The Ughelli-Asaba Road is a federal road and we are dualising it which is a very long stretch of road. Part of the sections of the road will be completed this year, and by next year, we will complete the entire stretch of the road.

 

“We have promised Deltans that we are going to do MORE for them. We have created a peaceful atmosphere in the state and that is why Julius Berger has come to execute projects for the state government. So, Delta State is safe and we are doing our best to make sure that we engage the youths,” he stated.

 

 

 

 

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Oborevwori leading by example - South-South PDP Chair

Oborevwori leading by example – South-South, PDP Chair

 

The South-South Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Dan Orbih, says Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State is a shining example of what leadership is all about.

 

Orbih stated this Wednesday, when he led the South-South zonal working Committee of the party on a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House, Asaba.

 

Orbih said they were in the state to formally congratulate Governor Oborevwori on his victory at the poll and its subsequent affirmation at the election petitions tribunal.

 

He described Governor Oborevwori as a product and symbol of loyalty and commitment to the party and commended him for his outstanding accomplishments in just a few months of being in office as governor.

 

“As the immediate past Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, your wealth of experience alone has placed the state on good stead for a harmonious working relationship between the executive and the legislature.

 

” Now the elections are over and it is time for you to deliver on your campaign promises and we have observed with satisfaction the steps you have taken since you took over.

 

“You are building roads and bridges and you have shown great example of what leadership is all about,” he added.

 

He lamented the poor state of  federal roads in the region and commended Oborevwori for not abandoning critical federal roads in the state and urged other state governments to emulate the Governor’s leadership example.

 

“Today in the South-South zone, it is difficult for people to travel from one state to another but we thank you for not abandoning the federal link roads in Delta State which you have been repairing because of your love for Deltans.

 

“We urge other states to emulate your kind gesture because our people in the South-South zone are going through very difficult times  because of the poor state of federal roads. You have shown good example and I believe others will emulate what you are doing in Delta.”

 

He said with Governor Douye Diri’s sterling performance in Bayelsa, PDP was set to retain the state in the coming governorship election.

 

Orbih said the South South remained the stronghold of the party in the country and assured that from the steps taken so far by Oborevwori as Governor of Delta, the people stood to gain immensely from his M.O.R.E Agenda.

 

He added, “From the steps you have taken so far as Governor of Delta State, we have no doubt that the people will benefit immensely from your M.O.R.E Agenda.

 

Responding, Governor Oborevwori thanked the party hierarchy for their support, assuring that he would continue to do his best to provide sterling leadership for the people of the state who trusted him with their mandate.

 

He commended Orbih for his support to Bayelsa Governor’s re-election, saying that the party had performed creditably in the state.

 

“Chief Dan Orbih is somebody that l know and once he believes in something, he stands by it. When l wanted to contest for governorship election, l went to his house to seek his blessing and from that date, he followed up with my ambition.

 

“I am happy that you have taken a very bold step by going to Bayelsa to support our own brother who is doing extremely well.

 

“Governor Douye Diri is a very good leader who has done a lot for his people. When you get to Bayelsa, you will see quite a lot of impressive projects. Even with the bad terrain, you can see that he has constructed roads and even a flyover and a bridge.

 

“So, he has done very well. He is a very popular man that has been accepted by his people and l believe that, by the special grace of God, victory will come to PDP,” he said.

 

He said his administration had done quite a lot in the past few months, assuring that better days awaited Deltans in terms of infrastructural development across the state.

 

“Here in Delta State, we have done a lot in the last four months of our administration. We have completed and inaugurated some projects in the state and there are a lot of ongoing projects that we are executing.

 

“My administration will not abandon any ongoing project and we will also initiate new ones to advance the development of the state.

 

“Today, we have signed a contract agreement with Julius Berger which amounted to approximately N78 billion. By next month, we shall do the ground-breaking ceremony for the projects in Warri and Effurun areas of the state and we shall invite you to the ceremony when we are ready.

 

“Delta State is PDP. The Minister of 2?Works came to the state and saw that the Benin/Sapele Road is bad and even the East West Road is bad. Even the Minister for Niger Delta also visited and saw that the roads are bad.

 

“Because of the deplorable state of the Sapele/Amukpe/Agbor Road, l have directed that the  contractor should do palliative works on the old road which is about 36 kilometres, to alleviate the plight of road users.

 

“The Ughelli-Asaba Road is a federal road and we are dualising it which is a very long stretch of road. Part of the sections of the road will be completed this year, and by next year, we will complete the entire stretch of the road.

 

“We have promised Deltans that we are going to do MORE for them. We have created a peaceful atmosphere in the state and that is why Julius Berger has come to execute projects for the state government. So, Delta State is safe and we are doing our best to make sure that we engage the youths,” he stated.

 

 

Oborevwori congratulates Delta NUJ Chairman, Oyowe

 

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori,  has congratulated the newly elected State Executive Committee (SEC) of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) led by Comrade Churchill Oyowe.

 

Oborevwori, whose congratulatory message was conveyed in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon in Asaba, also congratulated Felix Ekwu,; Vice Chairman; Victor Sorokwu, State Secretary; Josephine Omordio, Assistant Secretary; Caroline Ubini, Treasurer; Polycarb Orosevwotu, Financial Secretary, and

Celestine Afokobah, Auditor.

 

He expressed optimism that Oyowe would contribute his quota to the growth and advancement of the journalism profession in the state, given his wealth of experience as a former State Secretary of the Union.

 

The governor, who assured the union of his support at all times, urged the new NUJ leadership to key into his administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda and to lead the body of journalists to accelerate the development of the state.

 

The Governor also congratulated the immediate past State Council, led by Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, for their outstanding service to the union and the state.

 

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I congratulate Comrade Churchill Oyowe and other members of the newly elected State Executive Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) on their victory at the just concluded polls.

 

“Your emergence at this time is significant and momentous in view of your sterling contributions to the growth and development of journalism as a former State Secretary of the Council.

 

“As you and your POWER team settle down to provide leadership for the State Council, I must charge you to rally round your other colleagues who lost in the election and work as a united and indivisible union.

 

“As a state government, we would continue to partner  members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm as we strive to revolutionise governance in our state by providing landmark infrastructure across Delta State.

 

“The NUJ, under your astute leadership, must strive to continue playing the critical role guaranteed by the Constitution as societal watchdogs and agents of good governance and accountability,” Oborevwori stated.

 

 

 

 

Delta, Julius Berger sign N78b flyovers, road expansion contracts

 

Delta State Government and German construction giant,  Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Wednesday, signed N78billion contracts for the construction of flyovers, cloverleaf and road expansion projects in Effurun and Warri metropolis of the state.

 

The contracts include road expansion of a section of DSC/NPA Expressway, including a Cloverleaf Interchange at the existing Effurun flyover, alongside two pedestrian bridges, Flyover bridges at Enerhen junction to Marine Gate, DSC roundabout and PTI junction.

 

The Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, and  the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads),  Comrade Reuben Izeze, signed on behalf of the State Government, while the  Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Dr Lars Richter, and the  Regional Manager, Engr Friedrich Wieser, signed for the construction giant.

 

The Solicitor- General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr Omamuzo Erebe,  and  the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Engr Fred Edafioghor, witnessed the signing.

 

Speaking during the ceremony, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori said the signing ceremony was a culmination of days and months of critical planning and deft negotiations and a major step forward in his administration’s plan to start an infrastructural revolution that would change the face of Warri and environs.

 

He said: “Today’s event is the high point of months of vigorous planning,  meetings, reviews and tough negotiations. I am pleased that we have reached a point of agreement.

 

“It is pertinent to know that this is the first time in Delta State that we are engaging Julius Berger Plc in construction jobs. They have been in Delta, they worked in NPA, but this is the first time the state government is engaging them for construction projects.

 

“On behalf of the government and the people of Delta state, I want to express my deep appreciate to Julius Berger PLC, the Ministries of Works(High way and Urban roads), Justice, Finance and the Office of the Secretary to the State Government; for the countless energy invested in the process.

 

“I am aware that the road to this signing ceremony was tasking and draining but you stayed on course and, today, we are reaping the fruit of your diligence and resilience,” he said.

 

The Governor who said the choice of Julius Berger was informed not only by their excellent record but also by their experience in road construction in riverine terrains, tasked the contractor to deliver the projects within  27 months.

 

“We have seen what they have done in other states with topography like Warri and we are confident that they will replicate the same feat here.

 

“Upon completion, these projects will not only change the face of Warri and its environs, but also ease the traffic congestion in the area and alleviate the hardship faced by the commuters.

 

“As it is often the case with road constructions of this nature, there will be direct employment benefits for our people, especially, engineers, artisans and even food vendors. Transporters and so many others in the construction value chain also stand to benefit.

 

“I assure all Deltans and residents of the state that the M.O.R.E agenda is on course. They should expect more landmark projects across the different senatorial districts in fulfilment of our pledge to make life more meaningful to our people,” Oborevwori stated.

 

Richter, while thanking Delta State Government for giving the company the opportunity to deliver on the projects, commended Governor Oborevwori for the vision and foresight in a huge investment and for the commencement of a new era for the people of the state.

 

“We commend the Delta State Government for this and we are honoured to be the chosen partners for the construction of this vision.

 

“We are also looking forward for a successful partnership, a great achievement and the commencement of a new era to the benefit of the people of Delta state,” he said.

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at 89 Gen. Yakubu Gowon President Tinubu Celebrates Former Head of State

President Tinubu Celebrates Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, at 89



On behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu sends warm greetings to former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), on his 89th birthday, and celebrates the elder statesman whose visionary leadership has shaped major milestones in Nigeria’s history.

The President extols General Gowon for institutionalizing the peace process in Nigeria with lasting legacies, such as laying the foundation for Nigeria’s federation through the creation of states; fostering cohesion, encouraging inter-ethnic warmth and understanding by establishing the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and sustaining the pillars of harmony between Nigerians with the National Prayer Movement, which continues to inspire neighbourliness and a high degree of patriotism.

“His love and passion for Nigeria, as well as his determination to see into manifestation the unique gifts and combined strengths of all Nigerians, irrespective of faith, tribe or any other difference, remains a pace-setting attribute of leadership that all present and future Nigerian leaders must emulate,” the President says.

President Tinubu affirms that the courage, passion, and wisdom that General Gowon has consistently exuded from his youth, being Nigeria’s youngest leader at 32, has kept him steadfast and relevant at 89, as he continues to provide counsel to leaders, within and outside of the country, all while enjoying every measure of God’s amazing grace in enduring strength and health.

The President joins the wife of the former Head of State, his family members, and many friends in celebration.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 18, 2023

 

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU KICKS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF $100 MILLION LAGOS FILM CITY PROJECT

  • Govt, private investors partner to deliver multipurpose Entertainment campus in Ejinrin

 

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday, laid the first foundation block for the development of Lagos Film City — an ecosystem of creative cinematography, tourism, leisure, entertainment and learning.

The project, being sited on 100-hectares in Ejinrin town in Epe Division, is a legacy infrastructure initiated by the Sanwo-Olu administration to harness local talent and creativity to create new economic opportunities for talented youngsters in culture and entertainment industries.

The State Government sealed a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with entertainment investors facilitated by Del-York Group to develop the one-stop campus for learning, film production, post-production, visual effects, and other ancillary services that support the filmmaking process.

Ogidi Studios and EbonyLife Cinema are among the indigenous entertainment partners that would work on the project to bring the Governor’s vision to reality.

Ejinrin, a coastal boundary town, literally became a beehive during the groundbreaking held at the site of the $100 million project.

Roll call of Nollywood veterans and notable theater practitioners that attended the ceremony included Alhaji Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello; Prince Jide Kosoko, Tade Ogidan, Prof. Sola Fosudo, Adewale Elesho, Saheed Balogun, Kunle Afolayan, and Raymond Anyiam-Osigwe among others. There were movie directors and young filmmakers.

The event also had in attendance traditional rulers and members of the diplomatic community, who expressed their excitement seeing Lagos launching a world-class infrastructure to tap into the global entertainment market.

Sanwo-Olu said the occasion marked a significant milestone in his administration’s journey to creating a thriving film industry in Lagos that would have a global appeal, while contributing to the economic growth and cultural development of the State.

The Governor said: “Today, we embark on a journey that will redefine the landscape of the film industry in Lagos. As we break the ground for this $100million project covering a land area of 100 hectares and which will be executed through PPP model, we are laying the foundation for a creative hub that will serve as a catalyst for innovation, talent discovery, and storytelling excellence. This is a testament to our commitment to nurturing the arts and supporting the dreams of aspiring filmmakers, actors, and technicians.

“It is our strong belief that the film industry has the power to transcend boundaries and bring people together. It has the ability to inspire, entertain, and educate. Through the magic of cinema, we can showcase the rich cultural heritage of Lagos, while telling stories that reflect our shared experiences, and amplify the voices of our diverse communities. This film city will serve as a canvas for these stories, providing a platform for our talented artists to shine on both local and global stages.”

When delivered, Sanwo-Olu said there would be no need for filmmakers to take their creative contents out of the country for final production of their works. He stressed that all required infrastructure and equipment needed to produce a globally accepted cinema production would be available in the Film City.

The Governor appealed to residents of the host community to support the project, noting that the Film City would turn around fallow assets of the town to create wealth for its inhabitants.

Through the project, Sanwo-Olu said Lagos would tap into the global entertainment GDP and create job opportunities for young cinematographers, while stimulating economic growth and attracting more foreign investment into the sector.

“The Film City is not just about bricks and mortar. It is about the people who will walk through its doors and breathe life into its spaces. It is about the dreams that will be realised, stories that will be told, and impacts that will be made. Our creative community is the beating heart of this film city, and we are committed to providing them with the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. This is an ecosystem that will nurture creativity, foster collaboration and empower artists to push their craft beyond the local boundaries,” the Governor said.

Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, noted that the idea to embark on the Film City project was initiated during the Governor’s transition period in 2019, adding that the project required committed investors and partners to bring it to life.

She said the commencement of the project’s construction further testified to the commitment of the Sanwo-Olu administration to invest in the infrastructure, and create an enabling environment for the creative economy to thrive in Lagos.

“By the time the Lagos Film City comes on board, the spiral-effect on Lagos profile as a tourist destination of choice would be appreciated beyond the entertainment sector,” the Commissioner said.

Founder of Del-York Group, Linus Idahosa, said allocation of private equity to investors in the project development underscored the Governor’s understanding of key partnerships required to deliver the vision and enhance growth in the creative sector.

He said: “This idea of strategic collaboration between the Government and stakeholders is what it takes to push the country forward. The future of this country will be determined by the creative energy we are about to harness through the Film City project.”

Elejinrin of Ejinrin, Oba Rafiu Balogun, said the occasion marked a new dawn for the natives, describing the Film City as the “first modern project” to be brought to the town, decades after the colonial masters left.

“Talents and endowment deposited in Ejinrin can now be enhanced for national development,” the monarch said, thanking the Governor for siting the project in the town.

Popular movie star, Femi Adebayo, who spoke on behalf of Nollywood, said the project represented the collective enthusiasm of theatre practitioners and creative community, stressing that the infrastructure would elevate professionalism in cinematography and entertainment.

 

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

18 OCTOBER 2023


At Third Belt and Road Initiative Forum: China Commits To Refinancing, Completing Abuja-Kano, Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri Railways

**As President Jinping pledges more investments in Nigeria’s power generation*

 

In what could best be described as a major milestone for Nigeria at the ongoing Belt and Road Initiative Forum (BRI) in Beijing, China has committed to refinancing and completing the Abuja-Kano and Port- Harcourt-Maiduguri railway projects.

President of Peoples Republic of China, Xi Jinping, made the pledge today while responding to requests made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who, was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, at a bilateral meeting with the Chinese leader in Beijing.

It would be recalled that since the launch of the projects, China is yet to release funds for the two major railway projects in Nigeria largely due to cutbacks and commitments.

China had agreed to provide 85 per cent financing for the construction of the Abuja-Kano and Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri railway projects, while Nigeria which had the duty of paying the balance 15% paid its part of the funding from inception of the project through appropriations.

The crucial infrastructure also termed a legacy project has the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation as the contractors named to execute the project.

The Chinese President who was visibly elated to receive the Nigerian delegation led by Vice President Shettima at the Peoples Building in China, pledged increased investment in Nigeria’s power generation and digital economy called for the protection of Chinese nationals working in Nigeria, saying he would, in turn, ensure that the Nigeria-China bilateral relation is stronger than before.

President Jinping promised that China will enhance political support and build cooperations in all fields, just as he appreciated Nigeria’s support of one China Policy.

Pledging to further deepen practical cooperations, the Chinese leader threw his weight of support behind the Renewed Hope Manifesto of President Bola Tinubu and his 8-point economic agenda adding that China will support Nigeria’s exports, especially as it relates to peanuts and others, even as the China – Africa talent initiative remains key in its cooperation with Nigeria.

In the area of security, President Jinping promised continued crackdown on terrorists, assuring categorically that China is committed to peace in the Sahel region, more so that its long-standing military trainings and MoUs on joint exercises remain sacrosanct.

Noting that China is committed to peace, President Jinping said, “Like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stated recently at the last United Nations General Assembly,  Africa does not need to run away. Africa holds the key to the World. We support Nigeria to play key roles in international relations and upholding allies’ commitments.

“Mr Vice President, you spoke about upscaling and further upgrading of our strategic relationship, and I totally agree with you. Nigeria is developing with big potentials. I totally agree with you. Our foreign Ambassadors can stay and work out this upgrading”.

Speaking earlier, Vice President Shettima who delivered the well-wishes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described the rail projects as very vital to the President and people of Nigeria, saying it remained a legacy project that would further open up the nation’s economy, create jobs and boost trade and investments across the country.

The vice President said President Tinubu remains committed to a stronger Nigeria – China tie, addng that it was laddened with respect, non-political interference and mutual international cooperations.

“Our relationship commenced about 50 years ago, precisely in 1971 and it has been upgraded to a comprehensive partnership but we crave your indulgence, Your Excellency, to further upgrade this relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership because of the importance we attach to our relationship with China.

“When we met in South Africa at the China Plus 1 summit I was very honest and upright with you. Beyond the infrastructural support we are getting; why we love, cherish and respect China is that you treat us with respect and dignity. You don’t dictate to us who our friends are. We don’t forget our friends. China stood by us through thick and thin from the post-colonial struggles for independence in Zimbabwe, Angola, Mozambique, the struggle for the emancipation of our people in Southern Africa; China stood shoulder to shoulder with the African continent, we thus appreciate your friendship,” VP Kashim submitted.

President Jinping had before his audience with Vice President Kashim Shettima formally declared the Forum which had numerous heads of states and top government officials open.

Nigeria Will Leverage On Ties With China To Improve Digital Space, Says VP Shettima

Meanwhile, Vice President Kashim Shettima today said Nigeria will leverage its relationship with China to adopt programmes that will improve the country’s digital space, among other benefits.

Sen. Shettima also assured member countries of the Belt and Road Initiative of Nigeria’s readiness to “collaborate with the group and other emerging markets to bring about a positive shift in the growth and development of global economies.”

The Vice President stated these in his keynote address themed, “Digital Economy As A New Source Of Growth”, delivered during the High-Level Forum at the onging 3rd Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing, China.

The Vice President who spoke on Nigeria’s efforts at leveraging collaborations with partners to deploy technology in addressing some of its challenges, noted: “We are keen on using the instrumentality of the existing robust Nigeria-China bilateral relations to maximally key into projects under the platform of the Digital Silk Road for the improvement of our digital space.”

Speaking about Nigeria’s efforts in leveraging the digital space to create jobs and diversify the economy, Sen. Shettima said, “Nigeria has recorded a number of achievements including a digitalized public service, developed banking and e-payment systems, electoral reforms through the introduction of the electronic registration of voters and e-transmission of votes, thus creating ripple effects of job creation and human capacity building opportunities for our teeming youth population.”

Continuing, the VP said, “We have recently unveiled the new strategic blueprint, accelerating our collective prosperity through technical, as part of the Federal Government’s initiative to accelerate the diversification of the Nigerian economy  by enhancing productivity in critical sectors through technological innovation.”

He added: “Through this strategic blue print, the Federal Government aims to achieve three key objectives namely: Accelerate the growth of Nigeria as a global technical talent hub and net exporter of talent. One of the goals of this talent hub is to train three million early to mid-career technical talents throughout the next four years (2022-2027); Deepen and accelerate’its position in global research in key technology areas; and Raise the complexity and dynamics of Nigeria’s economy by significantly increasing the level of digital literacy across the country.”

The Vice President also spoke about Nigeria’s broadband penetration rate from 50 to 70 per cent by the end of 2025 and the Central Bank of Nigeria’s domestic card scheme code named “Afri Go” to rival foreign cards like Master and Visa cards, and stregthen the national payment system.

The Vice President was accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar; Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu; Minister of Transportation, Mr Saidu Alkali; Ambassador of Nigeria to China, Baba Ahmad Jidda and others.

 

*Stanley Nkwocha*

*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications*

*(Office of the Vice President)*

*18th October, 2023*

 

ECA and Transsion Sign Agreement to Foster and Accelerate Digital Transformation in Africa

 

 

Beijing, 18 Oct 2023, (ECA) – The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and Shenzhen Transsion Holdings Co., Ltd. (Transsion) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster and accelerate digital transformation in Africa.

The partnership is founded on the complementary expertise and strengths of both parties, with a primary focus on fostering collaboration in research and analytical studies. The shared goal of the two institutions is to provide valuable insights and policy recommendations in key areas of the digital ecosystem in Africa, including e-commerce, fintech, digital payments, financial inclusion, digital trade, and more. Both organizations intend to harness the power of emerging technologies, big data, innovative tools and platforms to achieve these objectives.

Acting Director of the Technology, Climate Change and Natural Resource Management Division at ECA Nassim Oulmane appreciated Transsion’s pivotal role in enhancing access to affordable and high-quality digital technology for African citizens and commended Transsion’s proactive involvement with various stakeholders, including ECA, in driving Africa’s digital transformation forward.

“This partnership can yield meaningful and impactful results in addressing digital challenges and bridging the digital divide on the African continent,” Mr. Oulmane remarked.

Africa is currently the continent with the lowest level of connectivity in the world, where 60% of its population remains offline. The ECA is dedicated to bridging digital divides by promoting infrastructure development and affordability, digital policy formulation, and fostering digital skills.

Harnessing Africa’s potential to embrace digital development and achieve the SDGs and Agenda 2063 requires that Africa’s youth, which will represent almost half of global youth by 2030, is ready for a digital future and the 4th Industrial Revolution.

Founder and Chair of Transsion,  Mr. George Zhu Zhaojiang,  said: “We are pleased to be ECA’s collaborator and technical partner. We will give full play to Transsion’s technical expertise, as well as Transsion Innovation Hub’s investment capabilities and strategic resources, to jointly empower the development of Africa’s digital economy, and help build new momentum for growth in the African economy.

Mr. Zhu Zhaojiang further added that through Transsion’s data platform DataSparkle, the company will also provide data analytics support for Internet access and digital development in Africa.

 

Senate appoints Oyelola Yisa Ashiru , Nwebonyi Onyeka as  Deputy Leader and Deputy Chief Whip

The Senate on Wednesday appointed Senator Oyelola Yisa Ashiru of the All Progressives Congress representing Kwara South as its new Deputy Leader of the Senate.

The Senate also appointed Senator Nwebonyi Onyeka as the new Deputy Chief Whip.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, announced the new appointments at plenary.

Ashiru, who was hitherto the Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate was elevated to the position of deputy leader of the Senate which became vacant, following the appointment of Senator Dave Umahi as Minister of Works by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Senate also confirmed the nominations of Mr. Ola Olukoyede, Halima Shehu and Muhammd Hammajoda.

President Bola Tinubu had nominated Olukoyede as the chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Shehu as the national coordinator, National Social Investment Programme Agency, and Muhammd Hammajoda as the new secretary of the nation’s anti-graft agency.

The appointees were confirmed in the upper chamber on Wednesday, October 18.

The request for confirmation by Tinubu was conveyed in a letter sent to the Senate and read during Tuesday’s plenary session by the Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau.

Meanwhile, the former senator representing Adamawa North Senatorial District, Elisha Abbo, has apologised over his allegation that Senate President Godswill Akpabio plotted his removal by the Court of Appeal.

Abbo tendered his apology while speaking in an interview on Arise Television on Wednesday.

He said, “I have to say with all sense of humility and responsibility that the press release we issued yesterday was premature and based on the available information at our disposal.

“As of today, we have discovered a lot of things, and yesterday night, I had a discussion with the Senate President, and I am convinced that he is not involved.

He quoted Akpabio as saying to him, “I swear by my mother’s grave that I’m not involved; I don’t even know that you’re in court.”

Abbo further stated, “For a number three citizen to come up to tell me that he has sworn on his mother’s grave, a woman that he loves so much, a woman who brought him up after he lost his father at the age of six, I don’t see a reason why he would lie.”

 

NDLEA detains 2 wanted drug barons, arrests two others for ingesting 175 wraps of heroin

 

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, have taken into custody two wanted heads of transnational criminal organisations with multi-billion-naira worth of illicit drugs and assets seized from them after weeks of intelligence-led operations across the country and outside Nigeria.

 

The arrest of the wanted drug lords came on the heels of the interception of consignments of cocaine and heroin buried in the bellies of two traffickers heading to Paris, France and Doha, Qatar by NDLEA officers at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, NAIA, Abuja.

 

Operatives at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, MMIA, Ikeja Lagos on Tuesday 10th October succeeded in taking into custody, Hakeem Babatunde Salami, the arrowhead of “Tajudeen Babatunde Abioye Transnational Criminal Organization” involved in the illicit trade of several narcotics including Cocaine, Heroin, Methamphetamine, and Ephedrine between Nigeria, Brazil, Ghana, South Africa, Mozambique, and Europe. He fled Nigeria to South Africa upon the arrest of a member of his syndicate, Suleiman Babatunde Oba at the Lagos airport on August 25 over attempt to export 25.10kgs of ephedrine to South Africa.

 

Hakeem Babatunde Salami was however smoked out of hiding through partnership with South African authorities and other intelligence and investigative mechanisms. While some of his luxury vehicles have been seized and his home in Surulere Lagos sealed, other members of the cartel already in custody include Suleiman and Godwin Edet Mathew.

In his statement, he claimed he was into the importation of building materials from China to Nigeria and used to sell gold in South Africa before delving into the illicit drug trade about two years ago.

 

The head of another cartel, Okafor Ikechukwu Williams (aka Jantu) and his wife, Okafor Ifeyinwa Grace were also taken into custody on Thursday 5th October when NDLEA operatives raided their hideout at 9 Awa Street, Ago Palace, Okota area of Lagos where they recovered 27.566 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed in a blue box and two sacks, ready for export to Europe and Asia. Their Lexus RX350 marked ABJ 512 AY parked in the house was also seized during the operation. Their arrest followed weeks of intelligence gathering about the activities of the criminal network.

 

At the Abuja airport, operatives on Friday 6th October arrested a drug trafficker, Nwofor Ejiogu Charles, 45, during the outward clearance of Qatar Airways flight QR 1432 to Doha. After body scan revealed he ingested cocaine, he was placed under observation during which he excreted 75 pellets of cocaine weighing 1.653kgs. At the point of his arrest, Nwofor who was the last passenger to board his flight offered to compromise an NDLEA officer with $3,000 to free him.

 

The following day, Saturday 7th October, another trafficker, Nwufo Charles Okwudili, 45, was also arrested while attempting to board Lufthansa Airlines flight LH 0595 to Paris, France via Frankfurt, Germany.  After being put through body scanner, he was taken into recovery room where he excreted 96 wraps of heroin he ingested with a total weight of 1.413kgs.

 

Meanwhile, NDLEA operatives on patrol along Okene -Lokoja-Abuja expressway on Tuesday 10th October intercepted a commercial bus coming from Lagos to Kano. A search of the bus led to the seizure of Four Million, Eight Hundred and Eighty Thousand US Dollars ($4,880,000), and Fifty-Seven Million Céfa, (CFA57,000,000) suspected to be counterfeits.

 

In Sokoto, the Federal High Court in the state capital presided over by Justice Ahmad Mahmud has sentenced an acting district head, Alhaji Umar Mohammed (aka Dan Bala) to five and a half years in jail on four count charges of possession and dealing in 436.38kgs cannabis and 7kgs psychotropic drugs brought against him by NDLEA in October 2022. He was convicted and sentenced to two years on each of counts 1 and 2 with an option of N1million fine, and eight months on each of counts 3 and 4 without an option of fine.

 

Operatives in Edo state on Wednesday 11th October stormed the Orue forest, Owan West LGA where they arrested Happy Akashili, 37, and Solomon Uwesue, 40 in a hut located inside a cannabis farm measuring 2.367308 hectares which was destroyed, with 92kgs already processed skunk recovered, while 49kgs of same substance were also seized at Ogbeturu camp.

 

The Commands across the country balanced their drug supply reduction operations with War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, advocacy campaigns to schools, markets, worship centres and communities. Some of these include: WADA sensitisation lecture on Drug Use and Mental Health for students of 15 secondary schools in Ibadan metropolis at the University of Ibadan, Oyo state;  WADA sensitisation lecture for students of Ascension College, Iworo Imeke, Badagry Lagos;  WADA sensitisation lecture at Modern Comprehensive College, Amokwe, Udi LGA, Enugu;  WADA sensitisation lecture for students of National  Secondary school, Awka; Students of JIBWIS Islamic Science Secondary school, Herwagana, Gombe;  students of Government College, Makurdi, Benue; students of Government secondary school (Boys), Kafin Maiyaki, Kano and students of JNI Special Model primary School, Gusau, Zamfara.

 

While commending the efforts of the NAIA, MMIA, Kogi, Sokoto and Edo Commands of the Agency as well as the Special Operations Unit targeting the drug cartels, for jobs well done in the past week, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) assured that officers and men of the Agency will never let down their guards no matter the tricks and distractions orchestrated against it by criminal networks.

 

 

Femi Babafemi

Director, Media & Advocacy

NDLEA Headquarters Abuja

Sunday 15th October 2023

 

 

EFCC arraigns Sunday Simon,( a.k.a Ryan Eggold ) for defrauding an American: Garri Kalish, the sum of $800

 

The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on October 16, 2023, arraigned one Sunday Simon,( a.k.a Ryan Eggold ) before Justice A.A Isiaka of the Kaduna State High Court sitting in Kaduna, for defrauding an American: Garri Kalish, the sum of $800( Eight Hundred Dollars only).

The offence is contrary to Section 1(1) (a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offence Act, 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act.

Simon was arraigned on two-count charges bordering on cybercrime.

One of the counts reads: “That you, Sunday Simon(a.k.a Ryan Eggold, male, sometimes in April 2023 in Kaduna, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, did obtain the sum of $800(Eight Hundred United States dollars)from one Garri Kalish, a citizen of the United States of America under the pretence of being into a romantic relationship, a pretence you knew to be false, and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(1)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offence Act, 2006 and punishable under Section 1(3) of the same Act”.

The suspect pleaded not guilty to the two charges.

In view of his plea, prosecution counsel K. Ogunlade prayed the court for a trial date and the remand of the defendant at the Kaduna Correctional Centre.

Meanwhile, defence counsel, K.S Istifanus, made an oral application for bail which was opposed by Ogunlade.

After listening to both counsels, Justice Isiaka adjourned the matter till October 24, 2023 for hearing of bail application, and thereafter ordered the remand of the defendant at the Kaduna Correctional Centre.

Simon was arrested by operatives of the Kaduna Zonal Command of the EFCC at Agwa, Trikania in Kaduna in a sting operation. In the course of investigations, his mobile phone was analysed which revealed different fake Instagram accounts and Facebook accounts where he presented himself as an American actor, Ryan Eggold in his chats with unsuspecting women.

Media & Publicity

October 17, 2023

 

EFCC ARRESTS UNVIVE TEGWOLO, IMEMESI DANIEL, OJO OSA TOHANMWEN, OLISE GODSPOWER IKENNA, KADIRI ERIC, YAKUBU ALIYU IZEGWIRE, OMOZUAFO COLLINS, ELECT OSAYUWA, DESTINY EWERE, AYODELE EUGENE, ERIC ONWUSIWEKA, OKEKE BENJAMIN, IMANAH DESTINY, KENNETH ANYENIBIE, URIEL OGWUEZI, PRINCE JOSHUA AND IBEJE DANIEL.

Operatives of the Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 arrested 17 suspected internet fraudsters in Benin City, Edo State.

They were arrested at their hideouts, in different locations, following actionable intelligence on their nefarious activities.

The suspects are Unvive Tegwolo, Imemesi Daniel, Ojo Osa Tohanmwen, Olise Godspower Ikenna, Kadiri Eric, Yakubu Aliyu Izegwire, Omozuafo Collins, Elect Osayuwa, Destiny Ewere, Ayodele Eugene and Eric Onwusiweka.
Others are Okeke Benjamin, Imanah Destiny, Kenneth Anyenibie, Uriel Ogwuezi, Prince Joshua and Ibeje Daniel.

Items recovered from them include different exotic cars, phones and laptops.

They will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

Media & Publicity

October 17, 2023

 

 

Gabriel Ohaohakara gets one year imprisonment for $30,000 crypto investment fraud

 

Justice O.O. Abike -Fadipe of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, has convicted and sentenced one Gabriel Ohaohakara to one year imprisonment for $30,000 crypto investment fraud.

The convict perpetrated the scam by creating a fake investment website, britishtradelimited.com, and a telegram channel for the same purpose.

He was jailed on Thursday, October 12, 2023 after pleading guilty to one-count charge bordering on crypto currency fraud, upon being arraigned by the Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

The charge reads: “That you, IHEOHAKARA GABRIEL, on or about the 24th November, 2022 in Lagos, within the Judicial Division of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, had in your possession document containing “Crypto Currency Fraud Activity” and other related documents for an online fraudulent activity which you knew to be false.” The offence is contrary to Sections 6, 8 (b) and 1 (3) of the Advance Fee Fraud.

He pleaded “guilty” to the charge when it was read to him.
Following his guilty plea, prosecution counsel, Akhanolu Ikhuoria Godsent, prayed the court to convict and sentence him accordignly.
Delivering judgment on Thursday, October 12, 2023, Justice Abike-Fadipe convicted him and sentenced him to one year imprisonment, with an option of fine of N1,000, 000( One Million Naira only) and 1000 hours of community service.
The Judge also ordered that the iPhone 13 pro max recovered from him be forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria, while the sum of $30000 be restituted to the victim.

Ohaohakara’s journey to the Correctional Centre started when he created a fake investment website, britishtradelimited.com, and a telegram channel for the same purpose. Investigation revealed that a syndicate of fraudsters, sometime in August 2021, sent a message on Telegram with the pseudo name, British Trade Limited, to one Adilio Pizzolo, a Brazilian, offering an investment opportunity in British Trade Limited.

It was further revealed that Pizolo, who later became the victim, had created an account on British Trade Limited as well as an account in a Brazilian bitcoin broker called “Foxbit ” through which he was able to convert Brazilian Reals to bitcoin. Pizolo was made to deposit approximately $30,000 worth of bitcoins to an address provided by the suspect during a live chat that was integrated on the fictitious ‘British Trade Limited’ website.

Media & Publicity

October 16, 2023

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LASG REOPENS LADIPO MARKET

LASG REOPENS LADIPO MARKET

The Lagos State Government has reopened Ladipo Market, Mushin, after meeting the most essential criteria, set for reopening sealed markets.

According to the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, business activities would commence at the popular spare parts market, after its recent closure for various environmental infractions.

He noted that the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu prioritised the issue of clean environment, public health, and safety, in line with the THEMES Plus agenda, which informed the recent drive, to enforce strict compliance with waste management best practice, across markets in the state.

The Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to environmental sustainability and public safety, particularly within markets and around business facilities, stressing that the goal was to ensure all markets in Lagos State, followed laid down environmental rules, resulting in a safer and healthier business environment for buyers and sellers.

Gbadegesin urged the traders to support the efforts of the State Government, by adhering strictly to the environmental laws, as markets that run foul of the law risk indefinite closure.

 

Nigeria’s First Lady Declares COWLSO National Women Conference Open in Lagos

…says women should break barriers and adopt a more positive mindset. Women should support each other, pursue education, and sustain conversations on issues that affect their growth.

First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, stated this while declaring open the 23rd National Women Conference organized by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO).

The First Lady pointed out that women stand a better chance of creating a world of more opportunities for themselves, given the renewed consciousness among them about their own potential and role in national development.

The conference, which has served as an annual rallying point for women within and beyond Lagos state to introspect and engage on issues affecting them, has as its theme ‘Unleash Your Potential’.

To do that, the First Lady charged them to break barriers and interrogate stereotypes while adopting a more positive mindset about who they are in the task of reshaping the society.

“Through the years, I have had the privilege of meeting many remarkable women who have overcome challenges, broken barriers, and achieved remarkable success in various fields. Some of these women have served as sources of inspiration to me, and some as mentors and role models from whom I learned the ropes that have helped me through my journey in life.

“The potential that lies within each and every one of us knows no bounds. It has the capacity to transform not only our individual lives but also the broader landscape of our nation and the world.

“Let us remember that our potential is not just about personal success; it is about uplifting our families, communities, and our great nation as a whole. When women are empowered, society thrives.”

Speakers at the conference, including the Senate President, represented by his wife, Ekaete Akpabio, and Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwoolu, described the focus of the conference as another clarion call to bring more women on board in governance.

They noted that Nigeria needs the contribution of all women, supporting the present administration to drive ongoing reforms.

The 23rd edition of the National Women Conference had the theme ‘Unleash Your Potential’.

 

SIGNED

Busola Kukoyi

SA Media to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”

President Tinubu Appoints New PTDF Executive Secretary / CEO

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Ahmed Galadima Aminu to serve as the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) for a term of four (4) years in the first instance.

The new Executive Secretary / CEO of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund recently served as the General Manager of the Education and Training Department at the Petroleum Technology Development Fund.

His appointment trails the application for retirement submitted by the outgoing Executive Secretary / CEO, Bello Aliyu Gusau, to proceed on 90-days pre-retirement leave beginning on September 26, 2023.

The President has directed the new Executive Secretary / CEO of the PTDF, Ahmed Galadima Aminu, to serve in acting capacity until he commences his fresh term of four (4) years in office, beginning on December 26, 2023.

The President wishes the new PTDF Executive Secretary / CEO well in the discharge of his duties.

 

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 17, 2023

President Tinubu Appoints New NAHCON Chief Executive Officer; Approves Dissolution of NAHCON Board

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Alhaji Jalal Ahmad Arabi to serve as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for a term of four (4) years in the first instance.

The President has directed the outgoing Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan, to proceed on 3-months pre-retirement leave as provisioned by Public Service Rule (PSR) 120243 with effect from October 18, 2023, leading to his eventual retirement from service on January 17, 2024.

The new Chairman / CEO of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Alhaji Jalal Ahmad Arabi, will assume office in acting capacity on October 18, 2023, and will continue to serve in substantive capacity for a fresh term of four years, beginning on January 17, 2024.

President Bola Tinubu has also approved the dissolution of the Board of NAHCON.

The President expects that the new NAHCON leadership will serve in reverence of Allah and with utmost adherence to the precepts of service according to the Holy Qur’an.

 

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 17, 2023

 

Nigeria, China Strategic Partnership Key to Africa’s Development– VP Shettima

**Says President Tinubu’s foreign policy drive boosting investors’ confidence*

 

Vice President Kashim Shettima said today that Nigeria’s strategic partnership with China needs to be scaled up, as it remains key to Africa’s development.

This, he assured, is in progress on the part of Nigeria, just as he said since assuming office, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has strategically tinkered with the country’s foreign policy to drive and boost investors’ confidence.

To augment this, the Vice President noted that President Tinubu has walked the talk by creating levellers for the ease of doing business in Nigeria.

The Vice President who is representing President Tinubu at the ongoing Belt And Road Initiative Forum in Beijing, China, stated this when he was hosted by his People’s Republic of China counterpart, Vice President Han Zheng, at the Diaoyutai State Guest House, Beijing.

He expressed profound gratitude for the warm reception accorded his delegation, noting that Nigeria and China, having celebrated 50 years of diplomatic relations in 2021, must now take their destinies into their own hands.

Declaring that the rest of Africa stands to gain from a successful Nigeria, VP Shettima said, “Our mutually beneficial relationship will be further enhanced and upgraded to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

“Nigeria is China’s second-largest trading partner in Africa; it is the largest economy in Africa and the most populous country in the African continent. The Belt and Road Initiative is a big beautiful concept that can be deployed to achieve this”.

The Vice President drew attention to the burgeoning relationship between Nigeria and China, stating that both countries stood to gain mutually from their friendship.

On his part, Vice President Zheng assured his Nigerian counterpart of continued partnership with Nigeria, hinting that President Jinping’s meeting with VP Shettima would enhance political mutual trust, advance practical cooperation and better develop the bilateral relation between the two countries.

Vice President Shettima was later a guest at the State Banquet hosted by President Jinping and his wife, Madame Peng Liyuan.

In the meantime, attention and focus would shift to the opening ceremony of the Belt and Road Initiative Forum at the Great Hall in Beijing billed for tomorrow.

VP Shettima is expected to proceed to the National Convention Centre to deliver his Paper titled, “Digital Economy As A New Source Of Growth”.

A bilateral meeting with the Chinese President and Prime Minister of Pakistan is also on the VP’s itinerary, just as he and other members of his delegation will be presiding over meetings with management of top construction, technology, finance and communication giants in China.

 

*Stanley Nkwocha*

*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications*

*(Office of the Vice President)*

*17th October, 2023*

President Tinubu Appoints New ICPC Management Team; Approves 90–Day Pre–End of Tenure Leave for Outgoing ICPC Chairman

In exercise of powers conferred on the President as established in Section 3(6) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, and in furtherance of the Renewed Hope mandate to reform key institutions and invigorate Nigeria’s war on corruption, President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of a new management team for the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), pending Senate confirmation:

Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu — Chairman / Chief Executive Officer, ICPC

Mr. Clifford Okwudiri Oparaodu — Secretary to the Commission, ICPC

The new Chairman of the ICPC is nominated for confirmation by the Nigerian Senate, following the President’s approval of the outgoing Chairman’s request to proceed on pre-end of tenure leave beginning on November 4, 2023, ahead of the expiration of his tenure on February 3, 2024.

The position of Secretary to the Commission does not require Senate confirmation and, therefore, by the directive of the President, the appointment of Mr. Clifford Okwudiri Oparaodu as Secretary of the Commission takes immediate effect.

Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu has embarked upon many far-reaching reforms as the Attorney General of Jigawa State since September 2019 and holds Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate degrees in Law. He was also named as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria-designate in October 2023.

Mr. Clifford Okwudiri Oparaodu is a lawyer with over 30 years of experience and has served meritoriously in the public service as a Member of the Rivers State Judicial Service Commission and Chairman of the Caretaker Committee of Port Harcourt City Local Government Council.

The President implores the new management team of the ICPC to always be above board as they discharge their duties without fear or favour concerning all matters before them.

 

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

October 17, 2023

 

President Tinubu Condoles Ex–Senate President Lawan over Mother’s Death

October 17, 2023 in Latest News, Press Releases

President Bola Tinubu has condoled with the former President of the Senate, Senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, over the death of his mother.

Senator Lawan’s mother, Hajiya Halima (Baba) Ibrahim, died at the weekend and was buried on Sunday in Gashua, Yobe State, in accordance with Islamic rites. She was 86.

President Tinubu described the late matriarch as a strong pillar of support, not only for Lawan and his siblings but also for others beyond her immediate family.

The President asked the former Senate President to find strength in the knowledge that Mama lived to an advanced age and to continue to cherish the good name she left behind.

“We thank God for the invaluable roles played by the deceased matriarch in raising exemplary children and for her tireless service to Allah and her community,” the President said.

President Tinubu prayed that Almighty Allah forgive the shortcomings of the departed elder and supply her family with the needed consolation in this difficult moment of grief.

 

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

October 17, 2023

 

PRESS RELEASE

NIGERIA’S FIRST LADY DECLARES 23RD NATIONAL WOMEN CONFERENCE OPEN

…Says Women’s Potential Are Boundless

… As Akpabio, Sanwo-Olu, Others Laud COWLSO

 

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, OON, has declared the 23rd National Women’s Conference open, saying that women have the capacity to transform not only individual lives but also the broader landscape of our nation and the world if given the needed support.

Giving a Keynote Address at the Conference organised by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials, COWLSO, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island on Tuesday, Senator Tinubu urged participants at the event to work together, collaborate, and support one another to ensure that every woman in Nigeria has the tools and opportunities to reach her full potential.

According to her, women have the power to shape the future as leaders, innovators, caregivers, and agents of positive change but must continue to break down barriers that limit their progress, challenge stereotypes, and foster an environment of equal opportunity for all.

The First Lady told women at the conference to remember that their potential is not just about personal success; but about uplifting families, communities, and Nigeria as a whole, hence the need to unleash their potentials and transform the communities.

She said “I call upon each and every one of you to embrace the theme of this Conference, “Unleash Your Potential,” not only for your benefit but for your individual States and the benefit of our beloved Nation.”

While delivering a Goodwill Message at the event, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said that the theme for the Conference, “Unleash Your Potential”, is very apt in view of the current challenges that Nigeria is facing, as it underscored the need to be more intentional and determined in harnessing the innate abilities and capacities of women to drive the Renewed Hope agenda at the national level, and similar initiatives being implemented at the sub-national levels.

Sanwo-Olu maintained that the gathering of women under the COWLSO umbrella, represents an invaluable opportunity to explore the collective power and potential of individuals, particularly women, in the quest to build a Greater Lagos.

He acknowledged the many interventions of COWLSO in critical sectors such as Health, Education, Environment, and Youth development are impacting positively on the lives of Lagosians, revealing that COWLSO recently completed the construction of three-floor classroom building in partnership with the Lagos State Committee on Rehabilitation of Public Schools, (SCRPS), for students of Ogombo in Ajah.

The Governor urged participants at the Conference to be catalysts of positive change in their various communities, workplaces, and families, saying that together, we have the power to shape a future where every individual, regardless of gender, is afforded equal opportunities to excel and contribute meaningfully to society.

Other speakers at the event included the Senate President, Senator Goodwill Akpabio, and the Governors of Oyo, Ogun, and Osun who were represented at the event, lauded the various giant strides of COWLSO and the developmental projects already delivered by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials.

Earlier, the Chairman of COWLSO and the wife of the State Governor, Dr. Mrs. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, acknowledged the First Lady of Nigeria Senator Oluremi Tinubu CON, OON for the massive support she continues to give to women and children, as well as the Senate President Senator; Godswill Akpabio, the Governors of Oyo and Bauchi States, Engr. Seyi Makinde and Abdulkadir Mohammed for identifying with the cause of women’s leadership and development in the State.

The First Lady who listed some activities of COWLSO under her leadership, reported that the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials had impacted lives through its various interventions in the education sector, Agriculture, donation to orphanages, seminar on sanitation, security, and safety for market leaders and stakeholders, senior citizens outreach with presentation of cash gifts and household items, just to mention a few.

According to the First Lady. The 2023 theme of the Conference “Unleash Your Potential”, is urging participants to take risks, face their fears, and push past their comfort zones in order to discover what they are truly capable of achieving. “Our focus is to bridge the gap between where you are presently and the place or position where you ought to be, where your potential is fully unleashed”, she added.

The COWLSO Chairman, however, remarked that unleashing one’s potential is a step one has to take with courage as anyone who fails to unleash his/her potential has robbed the world of valuable treasures.

 

OLUBUKONLA NWONAH

DEPUTY DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS

OFFICE OF LAGOS STATE FIRST LADY

October 17, 2023

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU MARKS WORLD FOOD DAY WITH LAGOS FARMERS, RECOMMITS GOVT TO FOOD SAFETY MEASURES

  • Governor woos individual paddy rice farmers for immediate supply

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday, recommitted his administration to actions and interventions that would make quality food affordable and accessible within the State.

The Governor said the ongoing development of Food Security Systems and Central Logistics Park in Ketu-Ereyun, Epe, was part of the current interventions by his Government to ensure food affordability, stressing that the facility would help bring the food market closer to the consumers and scale down food prices.

Sanwo-Olu joined hundreds of farmers at Lagos Farm Fair – an event held at the Police College in Ikeja for the commemoration of the 2023 World Food Day.

The event with the theme: “Water is Life, Water is Food; Leave No One Behind”, was organised by the Ministry of Agriculture with the objective to promote awareness and action against hunger, and to highlight the need to ensure healthy diets for all.

Farmers from various Local Government Areas of Lagos, who were supported by the State Government through Lagos APPEALS Project, exhibited their produce at the Fair and offered reduced prices for bulk purchase of their crops.

As the State population grows, Sanwo-Olu said there was need for collaborative efforts and innovation to sustainably scale up agricultural production to meet demand, while improving food supply chain and security.

The completion of the Food Logistics Hub next year, the Governor said, would centralise the State’s food supply from the farm to the markets where consumers would buy at affordable prices. He said the facility was being developed with capacity for long-term storage to reduce waste and loss.

He said: “It is another year of commemoration of the World Food Day. For us in Lagos, it is to celebrate and appreciate our resilient farmers, while also bringing up a conversation on need to begin to ensure that food is affordable and accessible. It is important to note that the current economic situation has made the prices of food to go up, but I believe with deliberate interventions that will bring the market closer to the consumers, we can help to bring down the food prices.

“As part of our efforts, we are currently building the largest Food Logistics Hub in West Africa in addition to middle level markets we are opening across the State. By this time next year, we would have completed the first phase of the project. The Logistics Food market will be the central hub through which all farm produce will come into Lagos. The facility has cold and dry storages from which food will be supplied to the middle-level markets and where products go to the retail shops.”

Sanwo-Olu said the Logistics Hub was part of a “robust, integrated” plan of his administration to ensure food adequacy and sufficiency. Other initiatives, he said, focused on equipping farmers to raise productivity, and supporting the market in order to make food affordable for the end consumers.

The Governor said despite the deficiency of land in Lagos, the State had been showing the way in urban farming in areas, such as aquaculture, piggery, fishing, poultry, vegetable and fruits production. He reiterated his commitment towards providing infrastructure and creating incentives for farmers to meet residents’ nutritional needs.

In spite of the collaboration with some key agrarian States for paddy rice supply, Sanwo-Olu said the Lagos-owned Imota Rice Mill hardly received adequate paddy rice from its suppliers to meet production capacity. He called on independent paddy rice farmers to collaborate with Lagos in order to sustain the rice production.

“Farming is an important component of our Government’s activities. We need to grow what we eat, and eat what we grow. While we have collaborated with some major agricultural states within the country, we are also looking for independent paddy rice farmers across the federation to raise paddy supply to Lagos Rice Mill. We need a lot of paddies to meet up with production capacity. It doesn’t matter the tonnage of paddy rice they have, we are ready to take it up. This is calling on paddy growers across the country to key into this opportunity,” he said.

Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, noted the event was held in the wake of critical food security issues facing the country and which required “urgent” actions to scale up food production across the various value chains.

She said the Farm Fair would encourage action on food insecurity, promote production and consumption of safe food, which would have an immediate and long-term benefit on the people, the planet and the economy.

“Not only is Lagos playing frontline role in the aqua farming industry, we are also key players in production of other crops and edible produce. This year’s commemoration of World Food Day is to come out and encourage our farmers, and create a platform for them to be aware of all the incentives and interventions we have created for them,” the Commissioner said.

 

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

16 OCTOBER 2023

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ABAVO CHRONICLE ABEJUKOKO VANGUARD ABIA REPORTERS ABIA SUN ABIGBORODO SUN ABRAKA STATESMAN ABUJA ABUJA CHRONICLE
” says Julius Berger Managing Director Engr. Dr. Lars Richter at Project flag off ceremony in Abia State JULIUS BERGER PROJECTS: “WE WILL DELIVER ABA-PORT HARCOURT ROAD TO CONTRACTED SPECIFICATION

JULIUS BERGER PROJECTS: “WE WILL DELIVER ABA-PORT HARCOURT ROAD TO CONTRACTED SPECIFICATION,” says Julius Berger Managing Director, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter at Project flag off ceremony in Abia State

 

 

JULIUS BERGER PROJECTS: “WE WILL DELIVER ABA-PORT HARCOURT ROAD TO CONTRACTED SPECIFICATION,” says Julius Berger Managing Director, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter at Project flag off ceremony in Abia State

  • As Abia State Governor, His Excellency, Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, tells excited Abians: “For the strategically important road, only the best engineering construction contractor is good enough for the works, and that is Julius Berger.”

 

Residents of Aba, Abia State were in upbeat mood Thursday as they jubilated with His Excellency, Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR as the Abia State Executive Governor flagged off the reconstruction of the 6.8km Aba-Port Harcourt Road at Aba the State’s commercial nerve-centre.

 

The Honourable Commissioner for works, Engr Otumchere Oti kickstarted proceedings at the ceremony in Aba when he said that “…the new Aba-Port Harcourt Road is a total of 6.8km, and it is made up of 5.7km from the beginning of Port Harcourt Road  by Ngwa road to the end of the intersection  with the Enugu-Umuahia-Aba-Port Harcourt expressway  by Alaoji, and another 1.1km from the intersection with Ngwa road to the junction of Azikiwe road by Asa road.”

 

His Excellency, Governor Alex Chioma Otti in his remarks at the event also said that the road which was first constructed by former Governor Sam Mbakwe has been in a state of disrepair and abandonment for over 20 years occasioning avoidable flood and other environmental problems and, consequently, shut down of businesses. He said, “I am glad that we are taking yet another strategic  step in fulfilling one of my promises to break the jinx of  Port Harcourt Road, Aba and revive the long abandoned economic activities along this corridor; activities that once gave Aba a set of peculiar commercial and trading advantages,  starting from the early  1980s when our revered  leader, Dee Sam Mbakwe, Governor of old Imo State constructed this road to feed into the booming oil industrial complex in Port Harcourt.” The Governor recalled with nostalgia that the road corridor in past decades emerged as one of the busiest parts of Aba and a go-to destination for people and businesses in Abia. He positively assured Aba residents and Abians in general that the years of abandonment of the important road are over.

 

On the Abia State Government’s choice of Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Plc as the contractors for the project, Governor Alex Chioma Otti described the decision as “another milestone to bring definite relief to the people.”  He said, he had earlier led representatives of the company to inspect the road because, it was his view that it will take a long time to complete the process of bringing life to the corridor. “We were very careful not to repeat the errors of the past. It is better to construct the road and do it well…. I told our people we shall only go for the best because that is what you (Abians) deserve. We then accepted the engineering designs and bid of the foremost engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.” This remark was received by a resounding applause by the teeming and excited audience. “I believe that Julius Berger is the best and, under my watch, only the best is good for Abia State. So, forget the heartbreaks of the past on this project. Look into the future as Julius Berger is here to give you the best of their expertise and put happy smiles on your faces again,” the Governor added, even as he called for the cooperation of residents with the contractors. Governor Otti concluded by saying that on completion, there will be restoration for all the businesses and property value for residents of the area.

 

Also speaking during the event, the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Engr Dr Lars Richter thanked Governor Otti for his administration’s confidence in Julius Berger, adding that, “…we are humbled and challenged by this award.  I promise that we will employ our unique expertise to deliver the project to specifications.  We assure you that you will get quality delivery.”

 

Counting on the goodwill of the people on the project corridor for peaceful project progress and success, Richter solicited the cooperation of residents of Aba during the reconstruction period and even beyond.

 

While the Governor led the State Executive Council members and other stakeholders to the landmark event, in the delegation of Julius Berger were Dr Lars Richter,  Engr Friedrich Wieser, Engr Dominic Mueller and Chief Sam Ngbor amongst others.

 

‘Social media is not Nigeria’s problem, reject bill to regulate it’, SERAP tells Akpabio, Abbas

 

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the Senate President, Mr Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of House of Representatives, Mr Tajudeen Abbas “to reject the recently reintroduced social media regulation bill which if passed would unduly restrict the rights to freedom of expression and privacy.”

 

SERAP urged them to “request the administration of President Bola Tinubu to drop any ongoing efforts to put pressure on Google, YouTube, TikTok and other social media companies to unduly restrict these fundamental human rights.”

 

SERAP said the bill would “criminalize the legitimate and lawful exercise of human rights.”

 

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) last week reportedly stated that, “one of Nigeria’s major problems now is social media”, and described the social media as “a monster”.

 

In the letter dated 14 October 2023 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “the social media is neither Nigeria’s problem nor a monster. Any regulation of it would have arbitrary and excessive effects, and cause incalculable damage, both in material and human rights terms.”

 

SERAP said, “Any move to regulate social media would be inconsistent and incompatible with the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] and the country’s international human rights obligations.”

 

According to SERAP, “The proposed bill raises serious concerns about the rights to freedom of expression and privacy, and would lead to digital siege.”

 

The letter, read in part, “Rather than rushing to pass the social media regulation bill, the National Assembly should encourage the Federal Government to maximize opportunities around social media access, and address the growing social and economic inequalities in the country.”

 

“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are immediately taken upon the receipt and/or publication of this letter. SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions against the National Assembly and the Federal Government if the social media regulation bill is ever passed into law.”

 

“We urge you to request the administration of President Bola Tinubu to publish the details of any ongoing discussion and engagement with Google, YouTube, TikTok and other social media companies.”

 

“The reintroduction of the social media regulation bill would lead to deterioration of the human rights situation in the country and carry major economic costs for all sectors, as well as exacerbate social and economic inequalities.”

 

“It would effectively deepen digital divides in the country and seriously undermine the Tinubu administration’s expressed commitment to develop this sector.”

 

“Under international law, all restrictions on the operation of social media companies and other intermediaries must comply with the requirements of legality, legitimacy and necessity.”

 

“The regulation of social media may be incompatible with the services of major social media and private messaging intermediaries, negatively impacting the free flow of information and ideas, and affecting economic and social activities.”

 

“The National Assembly should put pressure on the Federal Government to comply with the requirements of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 and the country’s international human rights obligations regarding the rights to freedom of expression, privacy and participation.”

 

“Access to social media is widely recognized as an indispensable enabler of a broad range of human rights. It is central to freedom of expression and the realization of many other human rights including education, freedom of association and assembly, access to information, and participation.”

 

“The Federal Government has the legal obligations to promote and facilitate the enjoyment of human rights, and to take all steps necessary to ensure that all individuals have meaningful access to social media. The authorities should refrain from unduly interfering with access to digital communications platforms.”

 

“Under Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, any restriction on freedom of expression constitutes a serious curtailment of human rights.”

 

“The Nigerian Constitution and these human rights treaties protect everyone’s right to freedom of expression, which includes the freedom to seek, receive and impart information of all kinds, regardless of frontiers. States have the obligation to respect and ensure the right to freedom of expression, without distinction of any kind.”

 

“The Nigerian Constitution and human rights treaties protect a broad range of expression, including political discourse, commentary on one’s own and public affairs, canvassing, discussion of human rights, journalism, and artistic expression.”

 

“This includes information that may be regarded as offensive, false or untrue by some people but is considered legitimate political discourse by others. Restrictions on the right to freedom of expression are only permissible when they meet the requirements of legality, necessity, proportionality and non-discrimination.”

 

“The onus to show that restrictions comply with those requirements is on the State seeking to restrict rights. Social media regulation bills generally do not meet those requirements.”

 

“The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights has called upon States not to engage in or condone any restriction of access to the Internet or other digital technologies for segments of the public or an entire population.”

 

“According to our information, Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Balarabe Ilelah, recently stated that the social media regulation bill has been sent to the National Assembly. The bill is reportedly seeking to repeal and reenact the NBC Act, CAP L11 laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.”

 

“According to the NBC, ‘We have already submitted a bill to amend the NBC act. One of our major problems now is social media. Unless there is a law that allows NBC to act on social media issues, the issue will continue to be a monster in our daily lives in this country.’”

 

“Similarly, Mrs. Francisca Aiyetan, Director, Broadcast Monitoring of the NBC, recently reportedly said that without regulation, young people could be misguided. According to the NBC, the Federal Government is currently engaging with Google or YouTube, TikTok, ‘so we know the faces behind these [social media] platforms.’”

 

“If the 2023 social media regulation bill which has reportedly passed the first reading before the National Assembly is the same as the 2019 bill, it would impose disproportionate penalties on Nigerians solely for exercising their human rights.”

 

“According to our information, the newly reintroduced social media regulation bill seems to be the replica of the version of the Protection from Internet Falsehood and Manipulation Bill 2019, with provisions empowering the authorities to unilaterally order the shutdown of the internet.”

 

“A similar bill to regulate social media was considered by the National Assembly in 2015 but failed to pass into law after public outcry.”

 

 

 

Kolawole Oluwadare

SERAP Deputy Director

15/10/2023

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: +2348160537202

 

 

 

Dum Dekor Urges Nigerians To Rekindle Sense Of Unity, Compassion

The member representing Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dumnamene Robinson Dekor is worried over the diminishing levels of empathy and concern among Nigerians, attributing the decline to the erosion of societal values.

Speaking as guest on ’30 Minutes On NTA’, a current affairs programme aired on the Nigerian Television Authority on Saturday, Rt. Hon. Dekor emphasized that the traditional values of compassion, solidarity, and empathy which once held Nigerian society together are gradually fading away.

He expressed deep concern about the growing sense of indifference and apathy that seems to permeate various aspects of Nigerian life.

“We have witnessed a noticeable decline in our collective empathy towards one another. The fabric of our society is being strained, and our ability to stand together in times of need is waning,” he remarked.

The distinguished lawmaker who is the Chairman of the House Committee on Host Communities, urged Nigerians to reflect on the roots of this issue and work towards reigniting the spirit of unity and compassion.

He emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of community, understanding, and support for one another, regardless of individual differences.

“We must reflect on our core values as a society and strive to rekindle the empathy that once defined us. Let us remember the strength we derive from our unity and the compassion that binds us as one nation,” urged Rt. Hon. Robinson Dekor.

Rt. Hon. Robinson Dekor, a former Deputy Speaker in the Rivers State House of Assembly as well as former Commissioner for Works in the state, took viewers on a nostalgic journey back to his time at the Federal Government College in Sokoto State, where he emphasized the profound sense of unity that prevailed among students.

He recalled that in those days, there was no distinction between a man from Sokoto State and an Ogoni man from Rivers State. He added that their motto, “Pro Unitati,” symbolized unity, a concept that unified them into one family, underscoring the fact that nobody would inquire about one’s state, tribe, or religion; they were simply Nigerians.

During the programme, he condemned the alarming disregard for human lives in the country and cited the ongoing insecurity, particularly the captivity of the Dapchi and Chibok school girls by their kidnappers. His voice trembled with emotion as he expressed his fervent hope for a day when every Nigerian could live and do business freely anywhere in the country.

“Let our diversity be our strength, and let our flag unite us together,” proclaimed Rt. Hon. Dum Dekor. “We are so richly endowed, yet we live in abject poverty.”

Rt. Hon. Dun Dekor Media Team

JULIUS BERGER CSR: ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION LEADER AGAIN RENOVATES, RESTORES AND DELIVERS CLASSROOM BLOCKS FOR SCHOOLS IN NIGER AND KANO COMMUNITIES

 

Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc improved her Corporate Social Responsibility portfolio of initiatives to benefit its host communities across the country recently, when it donated a block of classrooms and Principal’s Office to Government Day Junior Secondary School, Boyi, Gurara L.G.A, in Niger State.

 

At the event, after a brief introduction of the Julius Berger team and opening remarks by the leader of the company’s CSR team, Engr. Yusuf Ibrahim, the Principal of the school, Mr Bala Ishaku Dodo said, “the importance of education and a conducive learning environment cannot be overemphasized. Before now, this building was an incomplete one, and there was not a roof and chairs for our classrooms,” adding that, “…initially, we had to wait for the primary school students to finish their classes to enable the junior secondary students go in for their classes in the afternoon.

 

Bala Ishaku Dodo further stated that, “Julius Berger Nigeria Plc came to our school’s rescue and not only gave us this beautiful structure, but also provided us with students’ and teachers’ chairs, a Principal’s office, and a toilet. The excitement on our children’s faces clearly shows that Julius Berger has given them an amazing gift and we cannot be more grateful. On behalf of the Management and students, we say a very big thank you to Julius Berger.”

 

Speaking at the event, the Acting Village Head, John Nasara JP, who couldn’t withhold his excitement said, “Words aren’t enough to express my excitement. With this donation, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has not only touched the hearts of the students, but also left an indelible mark in the hearts of our community. Through this donation, Julius Berger has showed us the actual meaning of kindness and has exhibited it by giving back to the society. We are grateful and may God bless the company with every good and kind gift.

 

The Secretary of the Hausa Community, Umar Abdulkareem Kauru, who was also present at the handing over of the project said, “…we are very excited for the helpful actions taken by Julius Berger. Looking at the smiles on our children’s faces gives me so much joy. We appreciate God first and then Julius Berger for what they have done today. We are so grateful.” 

 

The Head Boy of the school, Michael E. Daniel, who was also present at the event said, “I want to thank Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for providing us with this block of classrooms. We appreciate how much Julius Berger is concerned about our education and all the company’s efforts towards our community. On behalf of my fellow students, I say thank you to Julius Berger.”

 

At the company’s next donations stop at Ahmed Idris Kura Community Science and Technical College, Arewa Kura, Kura L.G.A, Kano State, Julius Berger’s CSR efforts were also commended and gratefully acknowledged by the school management and the students.

 

The Principal of the school, Falalu Kabiru Ahmed, was effusive with thanks and prayers for Julius Berger. “…I want to specially thank Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for providing us with this block of classrooms. We had just two classroom blocks and could not afford to admit more children into our school due to lack of learning spaces. Thankfully, this very thoughtful gesture came to us at a time when we really needed it, and we do not take this for granted. God gave us what we really desired and He did that through Julius Berger. On behalf of the staff, parents and the pupils of Ahmed Idris Kura Community Science and Technical College, Arewa Kura, I say a very big thank you to the company.”

 

The Village Head, Abubakar Tijjani Abubakar, said, “I am extremely grateful to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for this significant contribution made to our school and also our community. I also want to take out time to also thank the entire management of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. This company, indeed, has written its name boldly in our community anals.”  

 

The College Director, Mr. Salisu Kura, who was present at the event, thanked the company also for the CSR donation gifted to the school, adding that, “Asides this, Julius Berger also helped to repair certain areas within the school premises which had potholes and were water-logged and as such, the students were previously restricted from accessing certain points in the school. He added that with Julius Berger’s intervention, the bad portions had been repaired for free and easier movement. We are happy. I pray God reward and bless the company continuously.”

 

The Julius Berger delegation to the event was led by the AKR Project Manager, Finn Drosdowski and ably supported by the Project Coordinator, Engr. Yusuf Ibrahim. Other Julius Berger officials at the events in Niger and Kano States include Akeem Lawal, Michael Ashofor and Olivia Uzoma.

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