Urhobo News

President Muhammadu Buhari extends warmest congratulations to eight Nigerian-Americans on their victory in the U.S. midterm elections.

In Georgia State, Segun Adeyina, Gabe Okoye, Solomon Adesanya, Tish Naghise, and Phil Olaleye won their legislative seats as State Representatives in their Districts.

Similarly, Carol Kazeem won the Pennsylvania State Representative in District 159, Esther Agbaje was re-elected as Minnesota State Representative in District 59B, while Dr. Oye Owolewa was re-elected to the U.S. House of Representatives (Shadow Representative) in Washington D.C.

In prayerful wishes for a successful tenure in office, President Buhari thanks them for their invaluable support and partnerships, over the years, with groups affiliated with the ideals and objectives of Nigerians in Diaspora associations in the United States.

Restating his unflinching support for every Nigerian excelling at home and abroad, President Buhari believes that compatriots who succeed in good causes are assets to the nation and the continent, noting that their contributions will always be remembered and celebrated.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

November 9, 2022

PDP Guber Candidate, Fubara: You Can’t fight Against ‘Godsent”, You’ll Fail – Obuah

The Director General, Rivers State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign Council, Bro Felix Obuah has advised those opposed to the state governorship candidate, Sir Siminalayi Fubara to disembark because it amounts to fighting a lost battle.

Speaking against the backdrop of Sir Fubara’s court victory over the suit seeking his disqualification from the 2023 general election in the state, Bro. Obuah described the PDP flag bearer as ‘Godsent’.

The immediate past PDP State Chairman, Bro. Obuah reminded such persons that nobody has ever fought anybody destined by God for an assignment and succeeded.

Drawing further insight from the scriptures, Bro Obuah referred to those opposed to the party’s choice for the office of Governor of Rivers State and their prospective counterparts to the divine instruction, “touch not my anointed and do my prophets no harm”.

“Whether or not you like it, the party has chosen its candidate and all that is expected of every other partyman is to rally round him and ensure victory for the party. Everybody cannot be governor at the same time and besides, God has His own plans for every individual to be made manifest at the fullness of time,” he counseled.

Bro. Obuah, immediate past Sole Administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) congratulated Sir Siminalayi Fubara over the court victory and assured that God who has started the victory spree will crown it with overall victory during the election proper and celebration to His glory and to the joy of all PDP members in the state.

He also lauded His Excellency, Chief Barr. Nyesom Wike for all his landmark achievements in the state that have raised the bar of governance to an enviable height, making the PDP the choice destination for all political office seekers in the state and assured that his efforts will not be in vain as PDP is poised to continue the winning streak which he has established as a legacy.

Signed

Jerry Needam

Special Adviser On

Media and Publicity

To Bro Felix Obuah,

Director General,

PDP Campaign Council.

November 8, 2022

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan: Law firm disowns document

A law firm, Indemnity Partners, has dissociated itself from a document in respect of Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan.

‘’Our attention has been drawn to a letter trending on social media purporting to have been issued from our law firm in respect of our client and her husband’’.

‘The law firm said in a statement signed by B. C. Igwilo SAN that the document was inauthentic and of dubious origin.

‘’ That letter is inauthentic and of dubious origin’’.

The firm urged the discerning public to ignore the document in circulation in its entirety.

‘’We categorically distance ourselves from the purported letter and its alleged contents’’ the statement added.

Below is the full text of the disclaimer

INDEMNITY PARTNERS

LEGAL PRACTITIONERS, NOTARIES PUBLIC

4^th November 2022

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

DISCLAIMER

We are solicitors for Mrs Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Our attention has been drawn to a letter trending on social media purporting to have been issued from our law firm in respect of our client and her husband.

We categorically distance ourselves from the purported letter and its alleged contents.

That letter is inauthentic and of dubious origin.

Accordingly, we urge the discerning public to ignore it in its entirety.

1. C. Igwilo SAN

Indemnity Partners

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES FBN ON 40 YEARS OF CROSS-BORDER BANKING IN THE UK

President Muhammadu Buhari extends warm felicitations to the Board, Management, and Staff of First Bank Nigeria (FBN) for cross-border services in the United Kingdom for 40 years, sharing almost 130 years of banking experience.

President Buhari notes the competence and professionalism that have become the hallmark of FBN over many years, winning and retaining the trust of customers in Nigeria, and beyond, like in the United Kingdom, and successfully consolidating on its benchmark of reliability and professionalism.

As the FBN, United Kingdom celebrates 40 years anniversary, the President believes the strength and buoyancy of any country depend largely on the capacity of the banking sector, extolling the organization for steady rise and expansion, with remarkable awards for transparency, accountability, and reliability.

President Buhari congratulates FBN, the United Kingdom for the milestone, and well-deserved acceptance and credence, urging the bank to further leverage on its strengths to retain the trust and confidence of the banking public.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

November 8, 2022

We’re ready for APC, Bello in 2023 – Kogi Youths

• Urge Kogi Central PDP candidate not to be distracted
• Vow to retire Kogi APC candidates in 2023
• Say Governor Yahaya Bello afraid of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s rising political profile

Youths in Kogi State on Sunday endorsed the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial candidate in Kogi Central, Chief Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan, as their choice candidate for the February National Assembly election.

‘’’The good people of Kogi Central deserve a better senator with sound understanding and intellectual depth. Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is suitable and capable of leading the way out of the quagmire we find ourselves today’’

They also chided Governor Yahaya Bello and his cronies for misleading Nigerians, embarking on laughable exercise and suicide mission and placing Kogi State both on the map of national and international ridicule.

‘’Governor Yahaya Bello and his cronies are overwhelmed by the rising political profile of Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. They simply want to be mischievous’’

Meeting under the aegis of Ebira Youths Coalition (EYC), the youths described the N10 billion allegations as purely absurd, diversionary and unnecessary distraction.

‘’Nothing will stop Akpoti-Uduaghan from occupying the Kogi Central senatorial seat in 2023’’.

Rising from an emergency working committee meeting held in Okene, Kogi State, the youths vowed to resist to the last drop of their blood any attempt by Bello and APC members to manipulate the 2023 elections’’

‘’Kogi APC is already heading for the rocks occasioned by its parochialism, deceit and betrayal of the people’s mandate. We will not subscribe to anything evil in 2023. The voters are interested in the emergence of an honest, consistent and credible woman as Kogi Central senator in 2023’’

Speaking through its National Director of Information and Orientation, Dr. Ihiampe Jato, the youths condemned the governor for orchestrating a campaign of calumny against Akpoti-Uduaghan, with a view to impugn her integrity and malign the transparency stance of the Kogi Central PDP candidate.

They praised Akpoti-Uduaghan for her peaceful disposition and gentility.

‘’Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan will make Kogi Central a more salubrious clime. She will promote an environment safe for life and the growth of business’’

They also applauded her for bringing smiles on the faces of Kogi people.

‘’Kogi Central is about to be emancipated from anti-development forces’’

They urged the electorate to come out and vote in February and March, 2023.

‘’We are waiting for the National Assembly election. We know Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan will win. The people will vote for PDP’’

They also urged Nigerians to ignore fake stories sponsored by Kogi APC lepers in Abuja and Lokoja.

‘’We need a vibrant and well-focused senator who has the interest of the district at heart; a woman who is academically sound and administratively skillful; a very deft master strategist who doesn’t talk with both sides of mouth; a woman who will deliver the dividend of democracy to the wonderful people of Kogi Central’’

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s popularity, strength threat to Bello, Kogi APC leaders, says PDP Chieftain

• Accuses APC of making Kogi State torture, kidnapping and killing chambers
• Urges Buhari to call Yahaya Bello to order
• Calls Safiu Governor Yahaya Bello’s loyalist  
• Says PDP ready to take campaign against violence in Kogi State to Europe and America
• Insists on adequate security

A chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi, Chief Otenyiete Otuhuo, said the popularity and strength of the party’s senatorial candidate in Kogi Central had thrown Governor Yahaya Bello and other All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders in the state into panic mode.

‘’What they are seeing is the beginning of PDP’s victory in 2023. APC should be ready to move out of Kogi State. We do not want war. It is time that the APC realized that it has failed Kogi State people politically’’

He also condemned APC leaders for making Kogi State some sort of torture, kidnapping and killing chambers.

Okene Local Government Chairman, Hon Abdulrazak Yusuf, a few days ago gave one week notice to PDP in the local government area to vacate its party secretariat. Safiu, a loyalist of Governor Yahaya Bello and a man on the pay roll of Abdulkarim Asuku, Chief of Staff to Bello, was abducted for dumping the ruling party in the state.

In a statement in Lokoja, the PDP leader accused Bello and other top government functionaries of employing all kinds of tactics and blackmail to harass and intimidate members of the opposition.

Particularly Ohuhuo criticised Bello for his undemocratic conduct and breach of the peace in Kogi State.

He urged President Muhammadu Buhari to call Yahaya Bello to order.

‘’Despotism and flagrant abuse of power represent the basic fabric from which the Yahaya Bello led APC administration is woven today. Something should be done to curtail the excesses of Kogi government officials and military personnel in the state’’

He also urged the police to arrest Kogi State APC officials for crimes against humanity.

‘’Kogi APC officials have steadily kidnapped, harassed and beaten individuals that have been critical of Yahaya Bello’s policies’’

The PDP stalwart commended Bello for exposing APC tactics to Kogi electorate, who now fully understand how the party wants to execute its 2023 political plan in the state.

‘’Governor Yahaya Bello and his co-travellers are not intelligent enough. Rather than face PDP squarely, they are looking for cheap distractions. Their efforts to cause more divisions and confusion among Kogi people are becoming new sources of strength and urgency to dislodge them in 2023’’.

The statement underscored rallies and seminars held by different groups to condemn thuggery and violence in Kogi State.

He also praised Kogi people for creating and sustaining a culture of resistance.

‘’Our people are eager to take the crusade to Europe and America. That is the next option if they continue to harass, intimidate, kidnap and kill members of the opposition’’

ASUU: Paying lecturers half salaries unlawful, SERAP tells Buhari

Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to “direct the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, and the acting Accountant General of the Federation, Sylva Okolieaboh to immediately reverse the apparently illegal deductions from the salaries of members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) for October 2022.”

SERAP is also urging him to “direct Mr Ngige and Mr Okolieaboh to pay ASUU members full salaries for the duration of their strike action.”

The Federal Government recently allegedly paid half-salaries to members of ASUU for the month of October, 2022. Some professors reportedly received salaries ranging from N71,000 to N121,000 for October.

In the open letter dated 5 November, 2022 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “Paying half salaries to ASUU members solely for exercising their human rights is patently unlawful and incompatible with the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] and international standards.”

SERAP said, “The alleged deductions from the salaries of ASUU members also amount to punishing them for exercising their right to strike.”

The letter, read in part: “The deductions are illegal and disproportionate. The deductions may also be construed as a deliberate attempt to take away the right to strike, and to make ASUU a lame duck.”

“The right to strike implies the right of workers not to be punished for striking. ASUU members do not therefore forfeit their salaries because they exercise their right to strike.”

“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within seven days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our requests in the public interest.”

“Illegal deductions from the salaries of ASUU members may also violate the right to work, and to respect of the dignity inherent in a human being.”

“The deductions are also incompatible with the prohibition of all forms of exploitation and degradation of man particularly cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment and treatment.”

“The deductions also implicitly violate the right of members of ASUU to an adequate standard of living for themselves and their families, including to the continuous improvement of living conditions.”

“Strikes are an essential means available to workers and their organizations to protect their interests.”

“The right to strike is an intrinsic element of the right of association recognized under the Nigerian Constitution, ILO conventions, and human rights treaties to which the country is a state party.”

“Indeed, the right to strike and that of entitlement to full pay for days of strike are essential elements of trade union rights.”

“Paying ASUU members or any workers half salaries solely for lawfully and peacefully exercising their right to strike constitutes an impermissible restriction on the right to freedom of association including the right to strike, which is an essential element in the principle of collective bargaining.”

“The application of any purported ‘no work, no pay’ rule to deduct from the salaries of ASUU members would be clearly inconsistent and incompatible with the Nigerian Constitution and international standards.”

“The right to strike is a keystone of modern industrial society. No society which lacks that right can be democratic. Any society which seeks to become democratic must secure that right.”

“The ILO Committee on Freedom of Association has stated that the imposition of sanctions for strike action is not conducive to harmonious labour relations.”

“According to the Resolution concerning the Abolition of Anti-Trade Union Legislation in the States Members of the International Labour Organisation, member states including Nigeria must ‘ensure the effective and unrestricted exercise of trade union rights, including the right to strike by workers.’”

“Another ILO resolution, titled, ‘Resolution Concerning Trade Union Rights and their Relation to Civil Liberties’ called for action in a number of ways ‘with a view to ensuring full and universal respect for trade union rights including the right to strike in their broadest sense.’”

“Protecting fundamental human rights including the right to strike is not simply about States fulfilling their legal obligations. It is also about them creating democratic and equitable societies that are sustainable in the long run.”

“Without protecting a right to strike, freedom of association, in particular the right to organize activities for the purpose of promoting and protecting workers’ interests, cannot be fully realized.”

“Our requests are brought in the public interest, and in keeping with the requirements of the Nigerian Constitution; and the country’s international obligations including under the International Labour Organization [ILO] Conventions, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights to which Nigeria is a state party.”

“SERAP notes that ASUU recently suspended its eight months industrial action following interventions from the Court of Appeal, which upheld an earlier decision from the National Industrial Court NIC.”

Kolawole Oluwadare

SERAP Deputy Director

6/11/2022

Lagos, Nigeria

Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org

Twitter: @SERAPNigeria

Website: www.serap-nigeria.org

For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202

North-Central leaders express surprise, unhappiness on Kogi government terrorism statement 

• Move against APC

• Endorse Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Top leaders of the North Central zone on Friday urged the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Mr. Kingsley Fanwo to desist from a campaign of calumny, hate and deception.

‘’Such empty posturing cannot fool the good people of Kogi State. The Commissioner for Information and Communication is talking rubbish. He knows the real terrorist in the state’’

The highly respected leaders also urged President Muhammadu Buhari to prevail on the Yahaya Bello led All Progressives Congress (APC) government to avoid continuous illegal approach to governance and public issues as it is now becoming a stigma on the ruling party and the Kogi State Government.

‘’We want to use this opportunity to inform Mr. President and the wonderful people of Kogi State that the terrorism statements by the Commissioner for Information and other officials of the Kogi State government are all lies’’

In a statement issued at the weekend in Abuja by the Chairman, Congress of Concerned North Central Leaders (CCNCL), Alhaji Mohammed Suleiman, the leaders noted the frivolity, ignorance and mischief that informed the commissioner’s recent statement.

The commissioner for information embarked upon this latest charade in a vain attempt to deflect attention from the woeful performance of Yahaya Bello.

They condemned the Kogi State government’s skirmish against the opposition, the draconian rulership of Yahaya Bello and the havoc done to the North Central zone by holding down one of the great prospects of the Middle Belt region.

‘’We condemn in strong terms the kidnapping of opposition members in Kogi State. We see this as a very bad trend for the state. We enjoin President Mohammadu Buhari to unravel the people behind this criminal act as the public opinion and petitions lay this at the door step of some powerful members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State.

Principally, the leaders carpeted the APC for abandoning Kogi youths to the ogre of unemployment.

They listed misery, poverty, violence, economic mismanagement and human destruction as key achievements of the APC administration in Kogi State.

‘’What is Governor Yahaya Bello’s performance? He has performed disgracefully. The Yahaya Bello led APC government is oppressive, ugly and blight in the heart of the North Central. Kogi State is now rated highly in the halls of infamy’’

They urged Kogi voters to reject tired souls and con-men whose only motivation is self-enrichment at the expense of the suffering masses.

They also urged the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Kogi Central Senatorial district, Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, not to be intimidated over the 2023 senatorial race.

‘’Kogi Central needs a senator who can find solutions to the district’s enormous economic, social and political problems. Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has the integrity, dynamism, courage and vision to address problems and take the senatorial district to the Promised Land’’

PRESS RELEASE

BUHARI LISTS GAINS, EXPECTATIONS AS NIGERIA-CAMEROON BORDER BRIDGE AND JOINT BORDER POST IS COMMISSIONED 

• “We have delivered”,  says Fashola, Nigeria’s Works and Housing Minister 
• As Presidents Buhari, Biya say the Border Bridge and Joint Border Post will enhance trade and fight against terrorism in the region
• You must act in the most professional manner as well as in line with global best practice -Buhari to officials manning Joint Border Post 
• Jubilation galore as border communities of the two countries roll out drums to celebrate the event

President Muhammadu Buhari has in Ikom, Cross River State, commissioned the Nigeria-Cameroon Border Bridge and Joint Border Post listing the gains and expectations of the two countries to include boost in trade and efforts of the two countries to combat terrorism.

President Buhari, who performed the ceremony jointly with his Camerounian counterpart, Paul Biya, spoke as Nigeria’s Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN took a holistic view of the projects and declared to the large audience that attended the event, “We have delivered”.

The President also said the commissioning of the 1.5 metre Bridge and Post, funded by the two governments, as well as the African Development Bank (AfDB), would increase the volume of trade and commerce between the two countries.

Represented at the occasion by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ambassador Zubairu Dada, the President told the audience of top officials and members of the border communities as well as security agencies at the venue, “The government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria expects that this Joint Border Bridge and Post will enhance security patrol and cooperation in this part of our border with the Republic of Cameroon”.

“While we have confidence that this project will accomplish its set target, it is also our hope that it will complement the current efforts of the Federal Republics of Nigeria and Cameroon to combat the scourge of terrorism and violent extremism in our region”, the President declared adding that the activities of violent extremists have become a major challenge to the development of the sub regions.

According to him, “This menace has continued to threaten our economies and the maximization of the potentials of our countries as well as cause political upheavals and menace in our region. Hence it is our hope that the commissioning of this project will accelerate the efforts of our gallant security personnel who are already doing very well in securing our territories”.

Expressing delight that the project would enhance the volume of economic activities in regions particularly as well as facilitate the movement of goods and services within the countries along the Corridor, President Buhari said it would also serve as a critical link between the countries of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and those of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS).

Describing the completion and commissioning of the project as timely, President Buhari declared, “Therefore, we expect that the commissioning of this Joint Border Bridge and Post will not only strengthen the already existing cordial relationship between Nigeria and Cameroon but will enhance cooperation between ECOWAS and ECCAS countries”.

“We also pray this project will enhance interconnectivity of our people and communities and also increase the standards and reduce the barrier to interregional trade and strengthen border security”, he said adding that it would certainly “deepen inextricably the fraternal and cultural bond already existing between Nigerians and Camerounians living along the border communities”.

President Buhari said the project, which, according to him, “is part of the ongoing Nigeria-Cameroon Multinational Highway Transport Facilitation Programme”, would remain a visible testimony to the continuing cooperation and good neighbourliness between Nigeria and Cameroon as well as regional economic communities.

“This Bridge and the Joint Border Post are proof that when African regions work with African institutions of standard, critical developmental projects can be achieved in record time”, the President said expressing delight that both Nigerians and Cameroonians living in the border areas have remained jubilant since the completion of the Bridge and Joint Border Post.

According to him, “Such excitement symbolizes the resolve of our people and governments to remain connected in spite of our seemingly artificial boundaries”.

Commending the government and people of Cameroon for their cooperation and support towards the completion of the project, the President also thanked the funding partners, particularly the African Development bank (AfDB), for their role in financing the project adding that under the leadership of Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, “the Bank has become by all standards a beacon of support in all matter relating to Africa’s development efforts to ensure the timely completion of this project”.

Conscious of the diplomatic importance of the project to both countries, Buhari declared, “Let me also underscore that in order to maximize the benefits of this project, Nigerian and Cameroonian officials who will be saddled with the responsibility of manning the border posts in particular must act in the most professional manner as well as in line with global best practice with effect from today”.

In his own remarks, his Cameroonian counterpart, President Paul Biya, said the Bridge and Post facilities are expected to help increase trade and strengthen cooperation between countries of the ECOWAS and those of the ECCAS in general, and between Cameroon and Nigeria in particular.

President Biya, who was represented by the Cameroonian Minister of Public Works, Mr. Emmanuel Nganou Njoumessi, said the direct beneficiaries of the programme “are the transport services users, as well as the 11million inhabitants (3m in Cameroon and 8m in Nigeria) in the programme area representing 7% of the total population of the two countries”, adding that the programme would reduce overall transport cost and improve the living conditions of the populations living along the road.

The President said the Programme for the transport facilitation of the Bamenda-Enugu road Corridor was conceived by the founding fathers as a confidence building measure to strengthen relations between Nigeria and Cameroon following the strained relations arising as a result of the Bakassi Peninsula issue.

He explained further that the 443 kilometre long Bamenda-Enugu Corridor comprises the Cameroon Bamenda-Mfum-Ekok Road sections, the Nigerian road sections of 240 kilometres, the bridge over the Munaya River in Cameroon and the border bridge of 230 metres Mfum-Ekok Bridge over the Cross River.

Delivering his welcome address earlier, Nigeria’s Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN, while expressing delight that the project has been delivered according to the scheduled time, declared “We have delivered. I can say with pride that our job has been done for the benefit of the people of Nigeria and Cameroun which the bridge connects.”

Also commending the vision of the founding fathers in conceiving the project, the Minister acknowledged with gratitude the roles played by the funding partners, the Ministry’s Engineers and Directors as well as the host communities of Nigeria and Cameroon.

“The most important thing about this project is that the Bridge not only connects Nigeria and Cameroon but it begins a journey of a Trans-Africa connection.  The Nigeria/Cameroon Multinational Highway from Enugu in Nigeria to Bamenda in Cameroun is also part of the Dakar-Lagos-Mombasa-Kenya Trans-African Highway and this is the significance of this project”, the Minister said.

In an interview, the Clan Chief of the host community, Ajassor, His Royal Highness Anthony Ntui Etta II, who represented the Paramount Ruler of the Town, expressed gratitude to the governments of Nigeria and Cameroon for their commitment to the execution and completion of the projects adding,  “The Ajassor Clan  are indeed very happy and grateful for the project”.

He added, “The significant of this project cannot be overemphasized as it will strengthen the already existing bond of affinity and further boost trans-border commercial activities between our communities with our kith and kin of Ekok border community in Cameroon and even beyond”.

The colourful ceremony carried out on the 1.5 metre Bridge and at the new Border Post was witnessed by top officials of both countries and representatives of ECOWAS and ECCAS as well as the funding partners, the AfDB, the European Union (EU), who also delivered goodwill messages, and other stakeholders like the Hon. Minister of State for Transportation, Prince Ademola Adegoroye, his Ministry of Power counterpart, Hon. Goddy Jedy Agba as well as Senator representing Cross River Central Senatorial  District, Professor Sandy Onor.

The ceremony was spiced by traditional dancers from the host communities of both countries.

HAKEEM BELLO

SPECIAL ADVISER,

COMMUNICATIONS

TO THE HON. MINISTER

5^TH NOVEMBER, 2022

Kogi Elders Decry Yahaya Bello’s performance

• Condemn abduction of Safiu, brother to Bello’s Chief of Staff
• Back PDP in 2023
• Task Buhari, security chiefs, others on kidnapping, political assassination

Top leaders of Kogi State on Thursday accused Governor Yahaya Bello of turning the domestic lives of the people upside down.

They also described the governor as a despot, symbol of oppression and erratic character.

In a statement in Lokoja, the leaders urged President Muhammadu Buhari to address the spate of kidnapping in Kogi State.

The statement issued by the Chairman of Kogi Indigenous Forum (KIF), Alhaji Mohammed Suleiman, accused the ruling party of abducting members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Safiu, stepbrother of Abdulkarim Asuku, the Chief of Staff to Kogi Governor, Yahaya Bello, was abducted on Monday

Particularly, the notable leaders accused the ruling party of hatching a destructive plan, orchestrating violence and deliberating using hit squads to destabilize the opposition in the state.

They described the Kogi State governor as a desperate and confused person who has no value for human life.

‘’Governor Yahaya Bello enjoys seeing the people in misery’’

The Igala, Ebira, Okun, Bassa Nge, Kakanda, Bassa-Komo and Oworo leaders underscored violence, terror and feelings of hatred against the opposition.

The eminent leaders blamed Bello for failing to address the state’s pressing needs.

They called on the electorate to vote out APC in the 2023 elections.

‘’PDP will break the back of APC. It will beat the ruling party, others in the 2023 elections’’

The group of respected leaders in the state scolded Bello for putting APC in an extremely difficult position.

‘’APC members in Kogi State are living in cloud-cuckoo land. Humiliation and embarrassment await Kogi APC 2023’’.

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU PREACHES UNITY, TOGETHERNESS, AS NATIONAL FESTIVAL OF CULTURES KICKS OFF IN LAGOS

• ‘We’re ready to Showcase Tourism, Export Creative Ideas to Global Market’ – Governor

Lagos State, on Wednesday, became the convergence of Nigeria’s diversity and cultures. The State literally turned the centre stage for the exhibition of local customs, arts and traditions in what appeared to be the largest cultural carnival in the country.

An array of elegantly dressed troupes from 29 states of the federation kept the guests’ attention hooked to flamboyantly rehearsed pageantry, flaunting the nation’s rich cultural heritage in the full glare of local and international audience.

The contingents are participants in the week-long festival tagged “EKO-NAFEST 2022”. The 35th National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) is being organised by the Lagos State Government in collaboration with National Council of Arts and Culture (NCAC).

Top Government officials, foreign envoys, traditional rulers, cultural ambassadors, NGOs, and schoolchildren made the roll call of guests at the festival’s opening ceremony held Mobolaji Johnson Pavilion, Onikan.

Lagos became the fourth time host of NAFEST, a cultural fiesta initiated in 1970 to foster national integration, strengthen understanding and unity among diverse ethnic groups and promote the peaceful co-existence.

The event will feature various competitions and non-competitive activities, including excursion trips to various tourist sites in the host city.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu declared the fiesta opened, charging the participants and audience to exhibit “true spirit of Lagos”, which he explained to be the State’s “accommodating nature” towards visitors.

Sanwo-Olu said Lagos Government accepted the event’s hosting right in demonstration of its love for cultural advancement and promotion of togetherness.

As melting pot of culture and hub of commerce, the Governor said Lagos would continue to export the nation’s rich heritage and entertainment to the global market, thereby attracting foreign investment into the local creative and entertainment sector.

He said: “Lagos State Government is proud to be hosting NAFEST for the fourth time, having hosted the first edition in 1970. The foundational objectives of the festival is in line with our administration’s goals for the promotion of entertainment and tourism, which are a key pillar of the T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda. We are deliberate about promoting every aspect of tourism, arts and culture, which is why we make it a practice to support, partner and collaborate in activities that would further strengthen our cultural heritage and promote our unity in diversity.

“For the next seven days, delegates from the states across the federation will be showcasing and celebrating our country’s cultural heterogeneity. As headquarters of entertainment and foremost commercial nerve centre of Africa, Lagos will continue to represent our country globally in creativity, music, films and culture. As a State, we are committed to supporting local talents and help them to export their creative ideas to the global market where they can exchange them for values.”

Sanwo-Olu re-echoed the need to use the cultural platform to engender peaceful co-existence and promote unity. He told the cultural troupes to eschew issues that that promote division and stoke tension.

As 2023 general elections draw close, the Governor urged the participants to use the opportunity to support leaders that would leverage the multi-cultural heritage and language to unify the country and bring back the spirit of togetherness among all citizens.

Rather than allowing differences in language and culture to divide them, Sanwo-Olu told participants to see the diversity as resources to be developed for collective advantage.

He said: “We are in the campaign season as our nation’s general elections has been scheduled to hold within the first quarter of next year. As political office holders continue to engage the electorate at this period, it is important to re-echo the message of unity and peaceful co-existence which NAFEST platform provides.

While we celebrate the Nigerian heritage and cultural diversity here today, my clarion call is that we take this an opportunity to elect leaders who will recognize and take advantage of our rich, multi-cultural heritage and language to unify us as a people and as a nation which was the intention of our founding fathers.”

Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Uzamat Akinbile-Yussuf, advised the cultural to use the opportunity of the festival to explore the tourism sites in different parts of Lagos, especially the waterway transportation system being developed by the State Government.

She said peaceful co-existence remained the catalyst for national development, urging the delegates to engage in dialogue and activities that would guarantee the peace throughout the period of the event.

NCAC Director General, Otunba Segun Runsewe, expressed appreciation of the Council to Gov. Sanwo-Olu and members of the Local Organising Committee for putting necessary facilities and logistic arrangements in place for the hosting of the event.

He said: The contents of EKO-NAFEST 2022 have been deliberately drawn to reflect and resonate the importance of peace across our nation. The event also emphasises the need to mobilise our collective conscience to fully embrace our diversity in the interest of progress and prosperity.”

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

09 NOVEMBER 2022

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU MEETS 36 FINALISTS, AS JAKANDE LEADERSHIP ACADEMY TAKES OFF 

…30 selected fellows to start programme January 

All is set for the inaugural session of Lateef Jakande Leadership and Fellowship Academy to take off, with the presentation of 36 finalists shortlisted for the programme to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the State House, Alausa, on Tuesday.

The meeting with the Governor formally ended the rigorous application process, which received over 3,000 applications across the country. The finalists will be prune to pave the way for the first cohort of 30 trainees, who will be admitted to start the fellowship next January.

Sanwo-Olu instituted the Leadership Academy to immortalise the first civilian Lagos Governor, the late Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, who governed the State between 1979 and 1983.

The Academy was initiated with the objective to train and nurture young leaders with the right values and leadership skills to build institutions across sectors and make lasting impact on the society.

The finalists consisted mainly of youths from diverse backgrounds and sectors.

Sanwo-Olu, who had personal interaction with all the shortlisted candidates, said the initiative focused on leveraging education and mentoring to raise a new set of leaders that would sustain the values and legacy of the late Jakande in public governance.

Education, the Governor said, was one of the most iconic programmes of the Jakande administration, stressing that the best way to honour the late ex-Governor was to revive his most impactful legacy.

He said: “This Leadership Academy, for me, is part of my donation and legacy to give back not just to Lagos, but the entire country. The worth of a leader is not just being a leader, but how many future leaders he can raise. We created this fellowship to be a national project. The late Alhaji Lateef Jakande only governed Lagos for four years, but he made lasting impression on all the citizens and his name is etched on the minds of everyone.

“When the thought about setting up the Academy came, we said to ourselves we didn’t want to name another street or estate after Jakande, because his name has had a lot of that. We thought about establishing an institution that will sustain and project the values for which the late Jakande was known. We seek to raise young leaders that will take up the baton of leadership in years ahead and the only way we can do that is to be intentional and be deliberate in scouting for brilliant young people who are best in their own areas.”

Sanwo-Olu said the fellowship participation was intentionally limited to the age bracket that had opportunities for future leadership. This, he said, was to ensure seamless transferring of leadership baton to young people and create a better future for them.

The Governor emphasised the fellowship would promote diversity and balance gender inclusion, noting that the objective was not to leave anyone behind in equipping young people with leadership qualities that would transform them to change makers.

He said: “I believe all the shortlisted candidates have all it takes to make the change they desire to see. All we need to do is to help you build your capacity and push out the skills in you. If all these skills are harnessed, there will be nobody that will not learn from the other. This is our intention.

“I’ve listened to the stories and seen the passion you all have brought into this. Given the detailed selection we have done, I believe we are on the right track to achieve the goals of this initiative. I can imagine the output we will be coming up with one year down the line. Not only will you be ready to change the world, I believe you will be ready to take over the world.”

Commissioner for Establishments, Training and Pensions, Mrs. Ajibola Ponnle, said the process through which the finalists were picked was competitive and thorough, noting that the fellows would be taken through rigorous training that would expose them to the procedures of public governance and administration.

She said the selected fellows would also have international exposure in the course of the training.

Some of them told the Governor their intentions for applying for the fellowship during personal interaction.

Miss Alexis Ogechukwu Ogba said she looked forward to imbibing values that would enable her raise her impacts in the health sector.

Hakeem Alausa, a young civil servant, hoped he would be able to build my capacity in policy development and implementation.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

09 NOVEMBER 2022

PRESS RELEASE

BOOST IN TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE FOR KANO, JIGAWA  AS FG APPROVES DUALIZATION, RECONSTRUCTION OF SECTION TWO OF KANO-HADEJIA ROAD

• Over 350 jobs expected as dualization/reconstruction work begins on the Section II of the 82 km single and dual carriageways 
• The road will open up settlements within the project vicinity and provide access for the evacuation of goods and services, says Fashola

In pursuance of its objective of improving transportation infrastructure across the six geopolitical zones of the country, the Federal Government has approved the dualization and reconstruction of the Kano-Kwannar-Danja-Hadejia Road traversing Kano and Jigawa States in the North West Zone of the country.

The approval given by the Federal Executive Council covers the 82-kilometre Road, which is a composition of both single and dual carriageways of two and four lanes respectively as Section II, comprising 58 KM single carriageway and 24 KM dualized carriageway length with the dualized section located in Kano City.

The FEC approval which was sequel to a memorandum dated October 31, 2022, and presented to it by the Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN, covers the Section of the road which begins at Yankaba Roundabout located in Kano City, traversing through Gunduwawa, Jogana, Gezawa, Guruma, Kagadama, Kawo, Gabasawa, Unguwan Ari, Limawa and terminates at Tsalle Village linking both Kano and Jigawa States.

Stating the reasons for seeking the approval for the contract worth N94.14 billion, Fashola, said the road when completed would open up settlements within the project vicinity and provide access for the evacuation of goods and services adding that the socio-economic life of the host communities would also be enhanced.

The Minister explained to the Council that the Ministry had earlier on February 21, 2022, requested and obtained from the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) the approval and a Certificate of “No Ojection” for the procurement procedure for the contract adding that the BPP granted the approval vide its letter dated April 8, 2022.

Fashola also informed the Council through the Memorandum that Due Diligence/Post Qualification conducted on the company showed that it is capable to execute the contract and is duly registered under the Nigerian law and fully compliant with the Nigerian Local Content Policy.

While itemizing the Scope of work on the road, the Minister said the road would also improve the socio-economic lives of the people within the stretch of the different communities in the project areas adding that the condition of the existing road pavement is characterized by failures such as potholes, loss of shoulder material and alligator cracks with complete loss of pavement structure at the other sections.

The Minister said there was also need to bring the dual carriageway section formerly constructed by the Kano State Government to the Ministry of Works’ standards and specifications, listing some of the construction improvements required on the existing road to include clearing on both sides of the road, provision of natural occurring materials that meet the specification as fill materials and provision of suitable laterite as base.

Other improvement materials required, the Minister stated, include provision of 60mm asphaltic concrete wearing course on carriageway junction and laybys as well as provision of new and replacement of access culverts at major turnings and junctions along the road, among others.

HAKEEM BELLO

SPECIAL ADVISER,

COMMUNICATIONS

TO THE HON. MINISTER

5^TH NOVEMBER, 2022

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU INAUGURATES MINI HOUSING SCHEME, VOCATIONAL CENTRE IN SURULERE

…LSDPC Regenerates Criminal Hideout, Builds 20-Unit Apartments For Residents

From the dust of a filthy parcel of land emerges the Love Garden – an elegantly designed residential development in Surulere built by the Lagos State Development and Property Corporation (LSDPC).

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday, led members of the State cabinet to commission the 20-unit two-bedroom apartments located on Olorogun-Allen Street, Surulere.

The opening of the mini-housing scheme was greeted by spontaneous jubilation in the neighbourhood. Residents, in their number, trooped out to receive and appreciate Governor Sanwo-Olu for transforming what used to be a criminals’ hideout into a cosy residential asset.

The suspended twin three-storey development sits on 2,719.30m square land belonging to the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).

Besides, the Governor also opened a vocational training centre built by LSDPC on Owolewa Street in Surulere.

Sanwo-Olu said the redevelopment of the abandoned land had not only provided accommodation for residents, noting that a major security threat in the area had also been solved.

The Governor said the transformation further reiterated the commitment of his Government to urban regeneration and infrastructural renewal. He commended the two agencies for the collaboration that led to the development.

“The land on which this project is sited used to be a security liability for residents of this neighbourhood. It was previously a massive school compound before the school was moved out of the site. The land was taken over by people of questionable character, who committed all sorts of atrocities and constituted threats to the residents’ peace. We had a conversation with SUBEB for the conversion of this fallow asset into a living asset.

“Today, the elegantly designed residential edifice is the outcome of the collaboration between LSDPC and SUBEB. We have created an enabling environment for Government agencies to collaborate with the private sector in order to reduce the housing needs of our people. Now, the beneficiaries of this scheme can raise their family in this nice ambience and serene environment. Community members will also live in harmony, as we have eliminated a major threat to their peace.”

Sanwo-Olu said the provision of safe and comfortable housing schemes for the citizens remained a key objective of his Government’s programmes, noting that the intervention had helped his administration to raise standards of living.

He said the State Government remained committed to scaling up access to safe and convenient housing while strengthening partnerships with the private sector to meet Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

More housing projects, the Governor said, will be inaugurated before the end of the year. He charged beneficiaries to maintain the structure and encourage activities that would sustain the investment.

“For residents living in this neighbourhood, this development presents an opportunity to key into the Government’s urban regeneration programme and improve their environment to raise the quality of living. We must join hands to ensure the mega status of Lagos is sustained,” Sanwo-Olu said.

LSDPC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Ayodeji Joseph, said the housing scheme was built to reflect simplicity and elegance, while also being complemented with contemporary infrastructure. The apartments, he said, have dedicated uninterrupted power source in addition to being connected to the national grid.

Joseph said the Owolewa Vocational Centre was built by LSDPC as a Corporate Social Responsibility to give back to the Surulere community to further aid the State Government’s efforts at empowering young people with modern skills.

“I salute the maturity and cooperation displayed by the SUBEB management during the period of discussion to change the use of the property and rights to acquire it. Today, the outcome has become a win-win situation for both the LSDPC and SUBEB,” Joseph said.

Facilities in the mini scheme include a security section, water system, expansive car parking space and electricity supply system.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

08 NOVEMBER 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI SALUTES JIM OVIA ON HIS BIRTHDAY, COMMENDS HIS SERVICE TO SOCIETY

President Muhammadu Buhari wishes a Happy 71st birthday to Jim James Ovia CFR, CON, businessman and founder of Zenith Bank, Africa’s largest commercial bank, referring to him as a symbol of service and dedication.

He praised him for his life of service to society.

“Jim Ovia,” according to the President, “is a beloved citizen,” praising him for his visionary accomplishments in business and banking in particular, and “for his efforts to accomplish seemingly impossible tasks as demonstrated by the success of Zenith Bank, which he founded in 1990, as well as his commitment to the welfare of the nation and its people.”

President Buhari commended the banker for identifying with the administration from its inception, and for his support for the reform policies engendered by it.

In wishing Jim Ovia a happy birthday, President Buhari urged him to continue his service to the nation and its people and “to do even more in these tough times.”

Garba Shehu

Senior Special Assistant to the President

(Media & Publicity)

November 4, 2022