

Julius Berger fetes Media practitioners at End of Year Parley, gets loads of kudos
Julius Berger Nigeria PLC last weekend hosted senior journalists in the country to its traditional year-end executive management – media parley.
Representative of the Managing Director and Leader of the Julius Berger delegation to the Media Parley in Abuja, the Executive Director Administration, Alhaji Zubairu Bayi, in his remarks told the audience that “Julius Berger will always be appreciative of the contributions of our media partners to our success at all material times.“
The Director noted the reasonable and kind efforts generally made by respective media practitioners to contact the company’s Media Relations Office at various times on matters relating to the operations and reputation of the company.
Alhaji Bayi said it is to be noted that due to the environmentally impactful nature of construction work generally, which is the company’s core business, it is to be reasonably expected, also, that the ever watchful and robustly independent Nigerian Press which is always seized with protecting citizen interests, would be interested in the company’s operations, especially as it impacts citizens convenience and ease of life.
Bayi, however proudly alluded to the existing Julius Berger legacy on Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) record.
Bayi informed the audience that Julius Berger this December just rewarded 647 of its staff for successful job performance at the company‘s long service award ceremony.
“With the above number of workers rewarded for their service to the company, and considering the huge number of productive man hours they and all our other teeming workers have put into their jobs across the country, may I now happily inform you that, with regard to the Company’s Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) issues, Julius Berger has a proud and in fact unmatched industry record of Lost Time-Frequency Rate of 0.19, which is less than one Lost Time Injury for every five million man-hours worked.”
These policies, Bayi informed, “are now imbibed and observed in the way we conduct ourselves in and out of workplace.”
Tracing the rich history of the company right from its inception in Nigeria in 1965, Alhaji Bayi said each year, Julius Berger strives to outdo the previous year’s performance for the progressive benefit of shareholders, employees and country.
According to Bayi, “…the professional media publishers, bureau chiefs, editors and correspondents, as critical and progressive development partners, opinion moulders and intelligent guardians of society’s best interest, have always rationally and objectively helped to inform the public that the temporary inconvenience that our work may cause is essentially planned, implemented and intended only to put in place enduring infrastructures for the ultimately beneficial use and lasting enjoyment of the public at large.”
For the foregoing role of the media, Bayi, on behalf of the Board, Management and entire staff of Julius Berger thanked the members of the press for their great role in sustaining the necessary peace and social harmony that has led to the successful operations of the company in Nigeria, year in, year out.
“We significantly owe our continuing success to your rational understanding and cooperation by which you objectively continue to helpfully inform the public that Julius Berger is Nigeria’s loyal development partner and will always do its work with that irreducible commitment; and…together with the robust and respectable 4th Estate of the Realm, we remain developmental partners in Progress.”
Bayi stated that whenever misunderstanding had arisen, the media generally has consistently, rationally stood up to brilliantly enlighten and properly inform all stakeholders and the general public on the facts and true nature of every situation and circumstance. “Julius Berger does not take your good work for granted. We appreciate it,” Bayi said.
He therefore urged the media practitioners to continue to identify with the company’s efforts and never hesitate to “contact us if the need arises to clear any grey areas arising from any of your reports on Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.”
The National President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Mr. Chris Isiguzo, MFR, who also attended the Media Parley in Abuja, was full of commendation for Julius Berger’s recognition of the serious role of the Press in nation-building and corporate success. Mr. Isiguzo who thanked the company for its policy of hosting the members of the press at the end of the business year, also enjoined other corporations in the country to take a cue from Julius Berger in their attempts to foster better corporate-media relations for their businesses in the best interest of their organizational bottom-line, employees and stakeholders.
The executive director News of the Nigerian Television Authority, Mr M.A. Labbo also spoke in similar vein at the event. Labbo who said he grew up in the country seeing Julius Berger’s good work all across the nation said, “… I guess, in terms of quality infrastructural development and signature, I can factually say Julius Berger is Nigeria, and Nigeria is Julius Berger,” explaining that Julius Berger has historically till date been a worthy corporate citizen of Nigeria.
The President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Mallam Mukhtar Sirajo, in his goodwill message also commended Julius Berger for the official practice of the end of year media parley, which he described as a high quality public relations initiative from which other corporations should positively learn. He added,“… coming from Julius Berger and its widely acknowledged traditional adherence to high professional standards, it is not a surprise. Keep it up.”
As the event in Abuja came to a close, Alhaji Bayi wished the media practitioners compliments of the season and prayed for journey mercies for the guests and their families during the yuletide season. He also wished them a happy new year in advance.
At the media parley event in Lagos, the Head of the company’s Media Relations Office, Prince Moses Duku delivered the address of the executive director, Administration, to the media executives present.
Publisher of MediaGate, Henry Ebireri and the CEO of The Point newspapers as well as several other media chiefs present in their remarks gave kudos to the company for identifying with journalists in the country. “You are indeed a role model in modern day PR professional practice,” said the publisher of MediaGate Group.
The print, electronic, as well as the digital online media communities all attended the 2022 Julius Berger Executive Management – Media Parley.

JULIUS BERGER GETS COMMENDATION FROM FEDERAL, STATE GOVERNMENTS AND CITIZENS OVER OPENING OF 2ND RIVER NIGER BRIDGE FOR YULETIDE SEASON
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JULIUS BERGER GETS COMMENDATION FROM FEDERAL, STATE GOVERNMENTS AND CITIZENS OVER OPENING OF 2ND RIVER NIGER BRIDGE FOR YULETIDE SEASON
…As Works Minister Commends Julius Berger for steady Progress of Works at Bodo-Bonny Road Construction
The Honourable Minister of Works, His Excellency, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, celebrated with Nigerians and commended Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for the great work executed and delivered at the 2nd River Bridge. The Minister spoke during his visit to the newly completed bridge to temporarily open it for the use of commuters. The temporary opening of the bridge, said the minister, is to ease the otherwise previous traffic gridlock and commuter torment that use to characterize the travelling experience of holidaymakers, especially during the yuletide season.
The Minister likened the previous hardship experienced on the old Niger bridge by which commuters spend more than two days just to cross the old bridge for holidays as ‘a dimension of poverty and economic hamstring to citizens which the President Buhari administration decided to tackle decisively and has, indeed, successfully addressed‘.
Chairman of the South-east Governors‘ Forum, His Excellency, Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State described the accomplishment and opening of the new River Niger Bridge by the President Buhari administration using the nation’s most reliable construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, as ‘a great miracle for the people of the South-east and Nigeria at large‘, adding that…it is a great miracle for our people who will no longer sleep for days at that point (referring to the previously endemic transiting gridlock between the Asaba and Onitsha ends of the old Niger Bridge during the yuletide holiday heavy traffic to the South east).‘
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State also commended the Federal Government and Julius Berger for the completion and opening of the Bridge. The Delta State Governor spoke through his Commissioner for Works who was also present at the New River Niger Bridge during the Minister’s visit to open it for the temporary use of commuters during the holidays.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Engineer’s representative for the 2nd River Niger Bridge Project, Engr. Oluwaseyi Martins, explained that the first phase of the bridge and road opening which is for light vehicles moving one way only from Asaba to the South-east, would last from 15 December 2022 to 1st January 2023. The second phase would be for one way traffic returning from the South-east (Onitsha end) towards Asaba, and it will last from 3rd January 2023 to 15 January 2023. “Heavy duty vehicles still remain restricted from the new bridge due to the available small turning radius for now“, he added.
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc was represented at the ceremony which commenced at the Asaba end of the new bridge by the project director, Dr. Friedrich Wieser and the company’s Coordinator for Executive projects, Mr. Kai-Uwe Koehler, amongst others.
The Honourable Minister for works also visited the fast-progressing Bodo-Bonny Road project in Rivers State. During his visit, Fashola stated that Work on the project is slated for completion in December 2023. The Minister hailed the continued progress on the work saying that, it could only have been done by Nigeria’s foremost engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. Fashola spoke at the project inspection tour said, “…this project is going to open up this community, and will be completed December next year, Buhari in office or not. There is no fear about that and about the funding and there is certainly no fear about the ability and competence of Julius Berger to deliver on the project and in superb quality.“
Stressing that funding for the project comes from the federal government’s Tax Credit Scheme into which both the NLNG and other big companies like Dangote and NNPC are investing, the minister continued, we are in Bodo trying to connect to Bonny Island. Contrary to what some people may say, the N200billion invested in this BBR project is nothing compared to its long-term significance. This is my fourth time here. From the first time when I visited to really understand the project at hand, it was alarming that within one state, people could not connect with one another. They were being inhibited. But the Peace Committee set up for the project embraced all the communities in this project area. Thank God, they are all working together now.
The Julius Berger Project Manager for the Bodo-Bonny Road (BBR), Engr Thomas Haug on his part did not mince words in reassuring all stakeholders that work was progressing and would be delivered on schedule. He said, „…the scope of work for the Bodo-Bonny Road includes the construction of a 38km long road through the low lying swampy area including three major bridges of 500m, 780m and 12oom in lenght as well as 9 mini bridges, a pipeline crossing bridge and multiple pipeline crossings and culverts.“ Engr Haug added that after the completion of the Bodo-Bonny Road, it will not only serve as a connection between Bonny and the mainland, but it will also connect fishing settlements and villages to the road network which could only be reached by boat hitherto; declaring that, we are sure that this road will have a big and comprenhensive socio-economic impact on this region.
Accompanied by the company’s Regional Project Coordinator, Mr. Sam Ngbor, the Project Manager led the minister and his entourage to physically inspect the entire length of the project from Bodo to the fringes of Bonny where the last mini bridge across the Nanabie Creek is being constructed. According to Engr. Thomas Haug, “…as we speak today, we are on the last mini bridge of the Bodo-Bonny Road project.“

Zipowei, Crown Troupe of Africa, other artists to perform in Lagos
- National Theatre Festival of Unity begins
- Femi Osofisan, Ahmed Parker Yerima, others speak on play creation
Zipowei, Crown Troupe of Africa and Blackedge Productions will perform in Lagos.
Gifted Steppers, JP Artistic Troupe and selected up-coming solo artistes will also perform at this year’s National Theatre Festival of Unity
Zipowei, a graduate of the University of Ibadan and currently participating in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), made her debut in the music scene with the official release of her first single, “Free Falling,” in October 2022″ a statement issued Friday morning by the Director of Communications, MediaGate Nigeria, Mr. Victor Oki said.
The 2022 National Theatre Festival of Unity with the theme Celebrations is designed to consolidate upon the gains of the first two editions.
The theme was carefully chosen to give Nigerians an opportunity to take stock of God’s abundant blessings in their lives.
The edition which runs from 16-18th December 2022 falls within the last four months of the tenure of the President Muhammadu Buhari led democratic government.
‘’It is therefore only fitting to leverage this festival to take stock of the achievements of President Muhammadu Buhari despite daunting challenges foist on Nigeria by escalating global economic recession and daunting security challenges’’.
The festival shall commence on Friday 16th December 2022 with a new addition to the activities- a virtual roundtable on play creation anchored by the Nigerian Centre of International Theatre Institute (ITI-UNESCO).
The innovative roundtable shall feature two leading Nigerian playwrights and former Chief Executive Officers of the National Theatre of Nigeria, Professors Femi Osofisan (2004-2007) and Ahmed Parker Yerima (2007-2014) as mentors and lead speakers.
The panellists shall include the three National Theatre Play Reading Series-award winning playwrights.
The National Theatre Festival of Unity was introduced in 2020 as an annual event by Professor Sunday Enessi Ododo, (fsonta, fta, fnipr,fsna, fana, FNAL), the General Manager/CEO of the National Theatre.
The maiden edition which featured music, dance, and stand-up comedy held at the National Theatre complex, Iganmu-Lagos from 10-13th December 2020.
The festival was conceived to celebrate life, build bridges of unity, promote peace and harmony as well as rekindle hope in humanity following the disruption by the Coronavirus pandemic which rocked the globe.
Accordingly, the maiden edition had the theme: Healing Nigeria. In Nigeria, besides the pandemic, there was also the unprecedented youth protest that engulfed the nation shortly thereafter.
The maiden edition offered Nigerians and residents alike fresh opportunity to engage and enjoy live performances which were temporarily suspended because of the pandemic.
Continuing in its tradition of preaching hope and perseverance amongst Nigerians, the National Theatre hosted the second edition of the festival from December 10th- 12th, 2021 under the theme Enduring Optimism.
The 3-day event which also held at the National Theatre, Iganmu- Lagos featured more events than the maiden edition. The new events include carnival procession, film show, visual arts exhibition and awards ceremony. These were in addition to the usual live-theatre performances, music, stand-up comedy and dance.
The festival aimed to encourage advancement of the performing arts throughout the country, create opportunities for up- coming Performing Artistes and aid the promotion of social development and improvement of quality of life.
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Zi always knew she wanted to be involved in the music scene. From primary school choirs to secondary school mini sessions in her classrooms during free periods, she always seized the opportunity to belt out a few tunes.
On some occasions, this involved approaching random classmates in hallways and singing to them.
Writing songs since age 13 has helped Zi develop her formula as she delivers lyrics laced with vulnerability and soul in expressions of love, hope, healing, and fun
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU INAUGURATES STATE TECHNICAL, MONITORING COMMITTEES ON ENGINEERING REGULATIONS MONITORING
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday inaugurated the State Technical Committee (STC) and State Expatriate Monitoring Committee (SEMC) on Engineering Regulations Monitoring (ERM).
Governor Sanwo-Olu while inaugurating the committees at Lagos House, Ikeja, urged them to ensure that all infrastructure in the State meet the global standards of engineering practice.
The Governor warned that nothing short of the best standards will be tolerated and therefore urged the Committees to come up with stringent regulations that will guide the ethics and practices of the profession, as well as adherence to project specifications.
He said: “We have, with all sense of responsibility, given priority to the development of infrastructure. My tour of the State will demonstrate the attention of our administration to massive construction of roads, bridges, housing, water infrastructure, among others.
“The inauguration of the Lagos State Technical Committee of the Engineering Regulations Monitoring of COREN is the birth of a new dawn in what I consider COREN’s effort to revolutionalise the practice of engineering in Nigeria in general and Lagos State in particular.
“With this inauguration, the era of mediocrity should be gone. Engineering must take its pride of place and be the driver in our development effort in the State.
“Let me reiterate that in carrying out engineering projects in Lagos State, there will be no tolerance for quackery. In the same token, no Engineer will be allowed to supervise any project except he/she is duly registered by COREN and possesses current practising license. Possession of current Practising License shall be a condition for prequalification by Licence by all companies assigned to carry out engineering projects in the State.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu who congratulated members of the Lagos State Technical Committee and Lagos State Expatriate Monitoring Committee, for being found deserving of the selection, urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them and perform the assignment with maximum commitment and credibility.
He said “In selecting, the members of the Lagos State Technical Committee and Lagos State Expatriate Monitoring Committee, extreme care and diligence were applied. It is also ensured that these nominees are from very reputable organisations.”
Speaking earlier, the President of Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) Engr. Ali Rabiu FNSE, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for being strategic and deliberately enhancing available human and material resources to serve the people of Lagos State.
He said Governor Sanwo-Olu led administration is being applauded for many projects in the State, which are transformational projects meant to improve the qualities of life in Lagos State
“You are transforming the state into an industrial and economic wonderland of the continent. This is particularly true in Mr. Governor’s efforts in the construction of over 308 roads and the delivery of the red and blue rail project, which he promised to be operational by the first quarter of 2023,” he said.
The Committees are to be guided by the responsibilities of locating document organisations and practitioners and report to the Registrar; verify and monitor the professional competence of works approving Officers; act as COREN watchdogs on maintenance, upholding Engineering codes of practice in public works, prohibit default, and ensure that all such works are in accordance with Engineering design and specification by Registered Engineers; among others.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
15 DECEMBER 2022

USE ARTS TO FIGHT SOCIETAL ILLS, DRIVE TRANSFORMATION, SANWO-OLU TELLS ARTISTS
PRESS RELEASE
…Reveals Over 3,000 Nigerians Trained Through State’s Creative Initiative
…As First Lady, State Govt Hold Greater Lagos Arts Exhibition
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday emphasized the power of artworks to drive social transformation and serve as a potent vehicle for information and reorientation, calling on artists to deploy their creative skills to fight societal ills.
The Governor spoke at the Greater Lagos Arts Exhibition which was collaboratively organized by the Office of Lagos State First Lady and the State Government through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture for young artists to showcase their talents, network with their peers and gain from the experience of veterans through mentorship.
Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat said since assumption of office in 2019, his administration had left no one in doubt about the desire to fully harness the largely untapped potential of the entertainment sector especially the creative arts component, including supporting and encouraging young talented individuals to grow and gain the exposure required to succeed in line with the THEMES Agenda.
“One of the things the state government has also done is to create what we call the Lagos State Creative Initiative. Using that initiative, we have trained over 3,000 Nigerians in different skills including films, and cinematography, among others and we used private sector experts to ensure that the beneficiaries are exposed to the best,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He explained that the art exhibition, with the theme, “Art in and for Transformation,” was designed to feature knowledge-sharing discussions by highly successful and award-winning professionals and that it was one of the several initiatives being implemented by the state government to realize the objectives for the sector.
“The theme of this event speaks to the power of artworks as potent tools to drive and influence social transformation through the message they communicate.
“This is quite instructive as there is the need to utilize different modes and media to effectively communicate messages and ideas, especially those that are meant to change the orientation of the general public on societal ills and their negative effects on the general wellbeing of the society,” the Governor said.
On her part, the First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu said the decision to collaborate with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture on the exhibition was borne out of the genuine desire to open up opportunities for visual artists who have proven to stand out in their artistic work, adding that arts had been proven to be a powerful tool which helps people communicate with the outer world and better understand their inner selves.
While commending the enormous contributions of artists to socio-cultural and socio-political development, she also challenged them to use their artworks to speak against ills in society, particularly the menace of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
“With these special skills, you are a great contributor to the Tourism and Entertainment pillar of this present administration and this also gives you space under the Education and Technology pillar of the THEMES Agenda of the administration of Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.
“As opinion molders and great influencers of thought, I challenge you to be deeply involved and commit yourself to support this administration in stamping out the menace of Domestic, Sexual and Gender-Based Violence from our society through the use of your artworks as a form of campaign against SGBV,” she said.
She also called on the artists to deploy their talents to fight child labour, sexual discrimination, and discrimination based on disability status, as well as enlighten the people on mental health, among others.
Earlier in her opening remarks, the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Pharm. (Mrs.) Uzamat Akinbile-Yussuf commended the First Lady for her consistency and commitment which, according to her, ensured that the novel Greater Lagos Arts Exhibition becomes a reality.
She said it had been established that art, in its various forms, is good business that deserves every attention and investment that is channeled towards it, adding that the exhibition was part of the intervention of the state government to give visibility to artists and their artworks in order to further deepen the growth of the creative industry.
In a paper presentation on the transformative power of visual arts, Prof. Kunle Filani said it was gratifying that Lagos had been blessed with a string of proactive and patriotic governors including Sanwo-Olu who continues to make transformational changes and promote visual arts.
To further deepen arts, Filani urged the state government to build its own museum and another iconic gallery of contemporary art, as well as embark on the acquisition of diverse artworks by Nigerian artists to decorate significant offices to promote culture and creativity.
He also advised the government to reignite the teaching of visual arts in secondary schools to ensure future citizens who are creative and people who can make use of critical thinking in their professional endeavors.
The event featured an art exhibition by 30 artists, panel discussion and participation of secondary school students.
OLUBUKONLA NWONAH
DEPUTY DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS
OFFICE OF LAGOS STATE FIRST LADY
13TH DECEMBER 2022
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU CHARGES SECURITY AGENTS ON CRIME-FREE YULETIDE SEASON
- Launches Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem, appeal fund
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has charged Nigerian Police and other security personnel in the State to work towards a crime-free yuletide season for residents by keeping the State safe during the festive season and beyond.
He made the appeal on Monday while launching the Year 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem and Appeal Fund at the Exco Chambers of the Lagos House, Ikeja.
Governor Sanwo-Olu urged serving security personnel to continue to reflect a high level of service, dedication to the call of duty and professional ethics that guide their profession.
He said: “We appreciate all our service commanders for the job you are doing. We appreciate it and we do not take it for granted. Please continue to uphold the high level of professionalism that we know the Nigerian Military for. Please continue to ensure that whenever you are called upon, you display that professional calling and you help us to continue to keep our state and country safe.
“We also want to encourage the Nigerian Police. Yours is a difficult one because you are in the eye of the storm but we know that Nigerian Police also have crop of professionals, competent and capable men that can rise up to the occasion. As we go into the yuletide season, it is a time when we need to keep our eyes open. We keep saying to our citizens; see something, say something. And together with you, the DSS, and all other security architecture, this is a time we need to ensure that we continue to keep our city and state very safe.
“I want to use this opportunity to encourage and to charge you that this is the time when we need you more. This is when security personnel should be vigilant. All of you that are in the security architecture, please let ensure we are able to provide a crime-free yuletide season for our citizens. This is a season of merriment and appreciating God for coming to the end of another year.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu while congratulating the Nigerian Legion, especially the Lagos State council on another Armed Forces Remembrance Day, praised all the retired military officers, especially the fallen heroes for their meritorious service to the country at one point or the other.
He also congratulated the newly appointed executive of the Lagos State Council of the Nigerian Legion that has just been sworn in to steer the operations of the Council for the next couple of years.
Governor Sanwo-Olu assured continuous support of his administration to the Lagos Council of the Nigerian Legion.
Speaking earlier, the Deputy Commander General and Chairman of Nigerian Legion Lagos State Council, Comrade Akeem Olawale Wolimoh, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for his consistent immense contributions of various forms to the council and its members, as well as continuous support to ex-servicemen and families of the fallen heroes.
He also expressed the council’s support for the re-election of Governor Sanwo-Olu as well as the presidential bid of the former Lagos State Governor and APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.
“In the name of Nigeria Legion Lagos Council and its auxiliary arms, all veterans and dependants (widows and orphans) of the fallen heroes of Lagos State, we pray to the Supreme, Eternal, Almighty God in His Omniscience and Omnipotence to grant Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu victory in his second term bid. We also pray that his mentor, our hero and Grand Patron, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu be victorious in his presidential bid come 2023,” he prayed.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
13 DECEMBER 2022

Legislative Agenda: Gbajabiamila lists successes, challenges of 9th House
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The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila has highlighted some of the achievements recorded by the 9th House in its legislative agenda, with six months to the end of the tenure.
Gbajabiamila said the 9th House has done a lot, which was a clear departure from what obtained in the past, adding that “the last four years have been a period of consequential interventions and essential reforms that lay the foundation for future growth and prosperity. We must acknowledge this and draw lessons to guide us in the future.”
Gbajabiamila spoke when he delivered a paper titled ‘Delivering on our contract with Nigerians: Implementing the Legislative Agenda of the 9th House of Representatives – Progress, Challenges and the Way Forward’ at the Second Edition of the Distinguished Parliamentarian Lecture Series organized by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) in Abuja on Monday.
He said the 9th House has been an unusually productive parliament despite the limitations imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We have taken legislative action to address longstanding challenges of governance and economics in our country. We have passed landmark legislation to fix our oil and gas industry, reform the police and reorganise the corporate administration system in our country.
“We have considered and passed meaningful legislation impacting all areas of our national life. Some of these bills are the Police Service Commission Act (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, the Electric Power Sector Reform Act (Amendment) Bill, and the Deep Offshore and Inland Basin Production Sharing Contracts Act (Amendment) Bill, amongst others.
“We passed a slate of bills to reform the aviation sector and clean up our airports so that these critical national assets can be properly administered to the best expectations of the Nigerian people. We have reformed the annual budget process of the Federal Government. We have used the appropriations process and the power of parliament over the public purse to pursue community and constituency development across the country.
“We have invested in primary, secondary, and tertiary education infrastructure. We have provided ICT training centres to facilitate learning and enhance educational outcomes. There is virtually no constituency in the country that hasn’t benefited from significant investment to improve primary healthcare, rehabilitate classrooms and schools, and provide community roads,” Gbajabiamila said.
In the area of critical interventions, Gbajabiamila said the House intervened to help resolve outstanding issues between the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Federal Government “so our young people could return to their academic pursuits after an extended period of industrial action by the union.
“Since then, the House of Representatives has worked to address the issues that led to the strike. We are currently working on the 2023 Appropriation Bill, which includes the sum of N170 billion to provide a level of increment in the welfare package of university lecturers. The Bill also includes an additional N300bn in revitalisation funds to improve the infrastructure and operations of federal universities.”
Furthermore, Gbajabiamila said, the House convened the Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other stakeholders to facilitate the adoption of elements of the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS) into the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).
“This effort is being supervised by the Chairman of the House Committee on Tertiary Education, Rep. Aminu Suleiman. Now, these issues are the fundamentals that have been at the heart of the perennial agitation by the union.
Having addressed those, we are now motivated to focus on addressing the issues of funding, education standard, and student and staff welfare that are necessary to build twenty-first century tertiary institutions worthy of their name.
“This is the reason why just a few weeks ago, we convened a National Summit on Tertiary Education Reform (NSTER) that brought stakeholders together for two days to conduct a holistic review of the tertiary education sector in the country and make recommendations for necessary action to improve the sector. This and other interventions in the education sector are a critical component of our Legislative Agenda commitments to strengthening human capital development by providing access to quality education opportunities across the country.”
By outlining some of the many achievements of the 9th House, the Speaker said it was not his intention to take a victory lap of any kind.
“Our system of policing and the judiciary, our infrastructure and public services, and so many areas of our national life still fall far short of our best aspirations. We have made improvements to our electoral laws to enable far-reaching reforms to improve the process through which we elect political leaders. Yet, we still need to improve the internal process of nominations within the political parties.
“The amendment of the Police Act 2020 put in place a new system for reporting, investigating and sanctioning abuses of police power, yet such incidents persist across the country. Though much has been done, much yet remains to do to deliver our people from the degradations of poverty and lack, protect them from the machinations of criminals and terrorists, and reform our politics and government to better reflect the best of who we are and be more responsive to the obligation to be a catalyst of national development.”
Gbajabiamila said, “the biggest challenge of implementation we have encountered with the Legislative Agenda is one that often imperils reform efforts worldwide: the refusal to embrace change. Both consciously and otherwise, there usually is institutional resistance to fundamental changes in policy and processes in the public sector. This is compounded by the number of constituencies whose interests, concerns and expectations must be factored in and managed.
“We have three hundred and sixty members in the House of Representatives from nearly a dozen political parties. We have the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) as the parliamentary civil service with thousands of personnel, a multitude of political and policy aides, and so many other interested parties, many of whom may be used to doing things differently. Time and careful management are indispensable components of successful reform in arenas like this.
“Then you have the issue of competing objectives. How do you set a Legislative Agenda that adequately captures the priorities of constituents in Surulere, Nnewi, Daura, Gubio, Ogoja and Wase at the same time? How do you assure the members representing these diverse constituencies that the priorities of their constituents won’t get lost in a streamlined, collaborative, and coordinated approach to legislative policymaking? How do you bring the Senate and the Executive along when you have managed to ensure that the House is committed to the same priorities and rowing in one accord to the same destination?”
Going forward, Gbajabiamila said the House of Representatives, in its future iterations, should continue the agenda-setting, prioritisation, monitoring and evaluation model of legislative policymaking embodied in the Legislative Agenda of the 9th House.
He noted that the Committee on Monitoring and Implementation of the Legislative Agenda should become, in the new parliament, a standing committee fully funded to serve as the in-house think tank, policy coordinator and delivery unit of the House.
“We need to adopt a new system of vetting legislative proposals for quality control and compliance with legislative agenda priorities. Amendments to the Standing Orders of the House will be required to achieve this.”
“The design of future Legislative Agendas needs to be more collaborative to aid implementation. Efforts must be made ab-initio to harmonise competing priorities of the various interests and stakeholder groups and align the different arms of government towards the same goals.
“Whatever the political settlement that emerges after the 2023 general elections, all concerned must recognise that government cannot afford to be at cross-purposes with itself. This doesn’t mean that we must all agree on what needs to be done and the process of getting things done. But we must make concerted efforts to identify areas of agreement and work on those together whilst seeking accommodations in other areas that allow us to advance little by little.”
Lagos, Nigeria 13 December 2022
Nigerian Breweries brands elevate festive celebration; roll out exciting festive calendar with an exhilarating mashup of events
As we count down to the heart of the festive season, Nigeria’s premier brewing company, Nigerian Breweries, is going all out with a lineup of events to spice up the festive season for Nigerians.
Brands like Maltina, Goldberg, Gulder and Zagg have kickstarted the festive season with the sponsorship of events like the Abula Festival, Ofada festival, and Psquare 4Eva Concert where consumers had splendid experiences courtesy of these brands.
In addition to being sponsors of Rhythm Unplugged, Mavin All Stars, Transcorp Hilton Enchanting Xmas, GenZ Republik, Nigerian Breweries is sponsoring the Wonderland Lagos, a 33-day long event, with series of exciting activities and activations to cater to families, including family karaoke nights, photo booths and carols, Christmas family feuds, Santa games hamlet, Wonder beer village, VR and arcade, maze, waterslide amongst others.
Other events that have been announced in the Nigerian Breweries festive lineup include: Eko Hotel Xmas Prideland, Idris Elba Rave Party, International Concert, Entertainment Week, Wizkid Live, Kizz Daniel Live, Asake Live, and the Eko Atlantic Xmas Village.
At all the events, the company’s brands —Gulder, Legend, Zagg, Heineken, Maltina, Star Radler, Desperados, and Tiger— will be present to elevate the festive celebrations for attendees of the respective events.
“Delivering unrivalled consumer experience has always been at the heart of our operations and decisions at Nigerian Breweries, and being a part of memorable moments and events with our consumers this festive season is no different,” stated Sandra Amachree, Senior Media, Brand PR & Sponsorships Manager, Nigerian Breweries PLC.
“We want every Nigerian, in every geo-political zone where we have a footprint to have a memorable holiday season.”
For the complete festive schedule, and daily updates, follow these brands across their social media platforms. @heinekenng @desperadosng @maltina @legendnigeria @Star_radler @tigerbeerng @fayrouznigeria @zagg_ng @gulderng @goldberg_ng.
PRESS RELEASE
12TH DECEMBER, 2022.
DELTA PDP SALUTES HIS EXCELLENCY, DR. EMMANUEL UDUAGHAN, DESCRIBES HIM AS A RARE STATESMAN WITH A HEART OF GOLD
The Delta State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign Council has expressed its deep and profound gratitude to His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, the immediate past Governor of Delta State, describing him as a rare statesman, with a heart of gold and a generational leader, whose contributions to the development of Delta State and contributions towards the strengthening and deepening of our democracy, will remain indelible in the annals of our State and National chronicles.
This commendation was contained in a Press Release by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, Deputy Director,
Media and Publicity Committee,
Delta State PDP Campaign Council, in recognition and appreciation of the decision of the former Governor, not only in graciously hosting the Delta South PDP, Stakeholders Meeting at his residence, but in his unequivocal pledge and promise to throw his considerable political weight, and immense personal support, behind the ambitions of all PDP Candidates in the forthcoming 2023 elections, especially Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who is the Vice-Presidential Candidate of the PDP.
The statement reads: “Your Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan (Asamaigor), the Delta State PDP family is deeply, profoundly, and eternally grateful to you for the sterling leadership and inspiring statesmanship you displayed, when you hosted the Delta South PDP leaders and stakeholders at your residence, to kickstart our Ward-to-Ward campaigns in the Senatorial zone, on Monday, November 14, 2022.
“We were pleasantly surprised to witness once again, your great candour, symbolic charisma, and that natural aura of commanding presence and authority which comes so effortlessly to you, as you rolled back the years and held your party members spellbound, with that admirable interaction which contributed greatly in building and consolidating the image and reputation of the PDP into the formidable force we achieved, with you as the leader of our party.
“Your legendary generousity was again showcased magnificently, as you not only graciously hosted the Delta South PDP family at your residence and even offered the facility to the Party to utilize for its subsequent activities whenever the need arises, you equally calmed our nerves and uncertainties with the unequivocal and reassuring assurances that you have thrown your considerable political weight and pledged your “full chest” support to all our candidates, especially His Excellency, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, who is your successor and now the Vice-Presidential candidate of the PDP, in the forthcoming 2023 elections.
“As though these powerful statements and actions were not loud enough, you graciously embraced our Governorship candidate Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori at the meeting of the Federal Government College, Warri Old Students Association (FEGOCOWOSA) in Effurun, and in your legendary peaceful disposition and display of politics without bitterness, you followed up that ‘neutral ground’ meeting in Effurun by going to visit Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori at his residence in Osubi, accompanied by key stakeholders and candidates from Delta South and Central Senatorial zones, in your entourage.
“In addition, you recently hosted party leaders and stakeholders from Burutu Local Government Area at your residence in Warri, and your very central involvement and robust participation during our Ward-to-Ward Campaigns in the Delta South Senatorial zone, coupled with your consistent charge and admonition for all party members and indeed Deltans, to embrace His Excellency, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, the Vice-Presidential candidate of the PDP as a collective Delta project because he is one of our own, have all been much more than we could ever have asked for, demanded and even hoped for from you.
“No pledge could be greater, no assurance sweeter and no support more motivational than the immense and inspiring import of your comments and commitment, in your rightful, incontestable status as one of the great leaders of our party, and with the formidable team of candidates we have assembled for the State and National Assemblies, complemented by our own Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, “Ekwueme”, poised for the Vice-Presidency and surely heading to Aso Rock, the cause of achieving overwhelming landslide victories for the PDP at all levels, in the 2023 elections is already in the bag; a “fait accompli”.
“There are absolutely no doubts, from now henceforth, that your support and commitment will serve as a tremendous boost of encouragement and fillip to all our teeming party members, both loyalists, and contestants, to embrace the remaining campaigns with greater zeal and vigour in the knowledge that, with our leaders like you championing the party, our victory is fully guaranteed.
“We thank you most sincerely for this unparalleled vote of confidence, which has reinforced our trust and faith in the party to deliver and we are truly blessed to have a rare statesman and leader like you with a beautiful heart of gold, the genuine spirit of forgiveness and the unwavering conviction of a true peacemaker, in your concerted quest to ensure that peace and harmony reigns in the PDP.
“Thank you, Your Excellency, for being the great leader you are and will always be. By hosting and bringing the PDP family in Delta South together, you have shocked our detractors into confused speechlessness, truncated their temporary, unfounded glee over a non-existent disenchantment within our party, and proven with a resounding master stroke, that PDP is Delta and Delta is still and will continue to be PDP. It can only get better and brighter from now on.
“We salute you, the one and only Asamaigor! Agberendiden!!”
PDP! Power to the People.
Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza.
Deputy Director,
Media/Publicity Committee,
Delta PDP Campaign Council and
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.
Ebireri Henry Ovie Mobile: 2348036977194.
Attack on Senator Maeba’s residence highly condemnable – Wali
The National Leader of Unity House Foundation (UHF), Kingsley Wenenda Wali, has condemned in strong terms the recent attack on the Port Harcourt residence of Senator Lee Maeba, the Rivers State Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Campaign Council by gunmen suspected to be political thugs.
The hoodlums had last Thursday shot sporadically at Maeba’s entrance and broke into his compound where they reportedly destroyed about five cars and left when they could not find the former lawmaker who apparently was their target.
Wali, an award-winning peace advocate and good governance crusader, who had about a week ago at a function he featured as guest speaker, pleaded with Nigerian youths to refuse to be engaged as thugs in the build-up to the 2023 elections, wondered why anyone would make himself readily available to be used to unleash attack on a fellow human being for whatever reason.
“The recent attack on the residence of Senator Lee Maeba, Chairman of the Rivers State Chapter of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council by armed vandals and hooligans, in what appeared as an assassination attempt on the former Senator representing Rivers South East Senatorial District, is totally unacceptable and highly condemnable. Nothing should warrant such a dastardly attack. Peace must be allowed to reign supreme in Rivers State as we prepare for the 2023 general election. People should be free to associate with whoever they choose to without fear of intimidation,” Wali averred.
While calling on the security operatives to wake up to their responsibilities of protecting the citizens and maintaining law and order, the UHF National Leader, said effort must always be made to fish out the perpetrators of such heinous acts for the necessary punishment to be meted out to them to serve as deterrent to others.
The UHF boss, appealed to all the key stakeholders in Rivers State, to put aside their differences and come together irrespective of their political affiliations to save Rivers from impending crisis. He added that it was important for them to unite and chart the course for peace and violence-free electioneering as the elections gradually draw closer.
In the words of Wali, “The attainment of visibility comes with its challenges. There are conceptions and misconceptions. There are appointments and disappointments. But in all, we must accept the place of God in everything that happens or does not happen our way.
“In every competition there must be a winner and those who didn’t win. It should never be personal, but BUSINESS. There is nothing that suggests that you must love or even trust your rivals. What’s a sine qua non is that you MUST RESPECT YOUR RIVALS.
“It’s easier to conduct transactions with the model informed by mutual respect. Anger has no place in dealing. What’s key is the plan.
“I’m therefore calling for all Rivers stakeholders to think about Rivers State, forget the past, forgive those we think offended us and save our dear state from despotic invasion.”
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU FLAGS OFF REDEVELOPMENT OF NIGERIA’S OLDEST COURTHOUSE RAZED BY HOODLUMS
- Rebuild Lagos Trust Fund moves to rebuild, expand Igbosere High Court
Out of the rubble of ruins, construction of a modern complex for Lagos State High Court in Igbosere has begun.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday, performed the sod turning for the redevelopment of the oldest courthouse in the country, two years after the iconic colonial vestige was razed by rampaging hoodlums in an unrest that trailed a protest in October 2020.
The courthouse is being reconstructed by Rebuild Lagos Trust Fund (RLTF) set up by Governor Sanwo-Olu in November 2020 through the Executive Order EO/BOS/2020.
The Fund is saddled with the responsibility of rebuilding and restoring all State’s assets torched in the unrest.
The Igbosere Court, one of the torched assets, dates back to the period when Lagos became the British Protectorate. It was formerly known as the Supreme Court until the relocation of Federal Capital Territory to Abuja when the court reverted to a State High Court.
Sanwo-Olu described the rebuilding effort as a “significant moment” in the administration of the justice system, noting the full restoration of the oldest judicial institution would help the State put the history of the courthouse in proper perspective.
The Governor said the Igbosere Court remained a symbolic heritage deeply ensconced in the sociology of Lagos. He assured that the courthouse would not only be restored with modernised facade to exhibit full traits of its architecture, its facilities would also be upgraded to strengthen administration of justice system.
He said: “This is a simple but significant event in the judiciary. I am humble to be performing the groundbreaking for the redevelopment of the Lagos High Court, Igbosere. We are on a journey to restore this architectural legacy, which has been part of Lagos heritage. We have put together a well-thought-out team comprising private sector professionals and Government officials to efficiently manage the Rebuild Lagos Trust Fund charged with the task to build back assets of the State destroyed by hoodlums.
“The team is to come together to advise and work with us while we continue this rebuild journey. This project is one of the several others that the Fund will be handling together. In the first phase, we will be replicating the design of the Igbosere Court and every feature of the building to recreate the facade of the old building. We are rebuilding a bigger edifice for Lady Justice. The courthouse will be brought back to life to ensure we have smooth dispensation of justice for our citizens.”
Sanwo-Olu maintained that Lagos had no hand in the event that led to the razing of the courthouse and other State assets, stressing that the State had put the emotions behind the dark event and looked ahead to build a city where wheels of justice would not be placed out of the reach of all citizens.
The new courthouse, the Governor said, would give judges and judicial officers ample space to work, while maintaining the independence of the judiciary.
He said: “We are here to let people know that we have put the emotions behind us. We are forward-looking people. This event further confirms the strong spirit of Lagos and the resilience of the city, which explain our ability to withstand shocks and build back better.
“We will never allow the forces that razed the building to win the battle. That is why we are publicising the reconstruction of the Igbosere Court to let the whole world know and show our resilience. We will be turning this bad situation to positive development.”
The Fund’s Board of Directors chairman, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, said the Igbosere Court was the significant institution among the six pioneer projects identified by the Fund, given its historical significance to Lagos and the country.
The Fund, he said, remains dedicated to its restoration and upgrade.
“In the first phase, we will rebuild the old court structure, upgrade it to a state-of-the-art facility, and restore the artefacts that are signatures of its history. The second phase of this project will be a multi-story and multi-purpose structure to resolve space constraints and will feature additional office spaces, courtrooms, parking spaces, as well as giving room to future expansion,” Cardoso said.
Lagos Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo, SAN, said October 2020 would remain a sad day in the history of the Judiciary, noting that the torching of the court was a “fatal breach” in the temple of justice.
He said dispensing justice was not about brick and mortar, but an idea which could not be killed by destruction and desecration of the temple.
“This redevelopment will raise from the ashes a more beautiful court complex than the one destroyed. With this event, light has overcome darkness,” Onigbanjo said.
Chief Judge of Lagos, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba, recalled the last judicial activity in the courthouse before it was razed, noting that the Governor had a plan for massive renovation of the High Court before the incident.
Despite the large scale destruction wreaked on the structure, Alogba said the statue of the Lady Justice conspicuously placed at the entrance of the High Court was not torched and also the statues of lions.
The Chief Judge said the redevelopment effort was a manifestation of the beginning of nature’s plan for the oldest court building in the country.
In the redevelopment, there will be an expansion of the number of courtrooms from 22 to 38 in response to the deficiency in the number of courtrooms in the State.
To eliminate car-parking challenges around the court, a multilevel park would be built in the new complex and a 700-seater auditorium.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
12 DECEMBER 2022
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU PICKS PVC, CHARGES LAGOSIANS TO GET VOTERS CARDS
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has appealed to the residents of the State, who are of voting age to pick up their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs), from the various Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) offices in their localities.
He made the appeal on Monday when he stopped by at INEC office in the Sura area of Lagos Island Local Government Area to pick up his reprinted PVC alongside the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, and some of his cabinet members.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who is seeking re-election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), a few months ago redesignated his location and updated his details, having moved his polling unit from Ikoyi to Lagos Island, ahead of next year’s governorship election.
The Governor reminded the people that it is only when they collect their PVCs that they would be able to exercise their franchise during next year’s general elections.
He said: “Today, INEC officially started the collection of PVCs and because I did a redesignation of my address of where I was and where I am now, I had to move my polling unit.
“I am here to demonstrate to all our citizens that I have complied. I have come to pick up my reprinted Voter’s Card and I want to enjoin everyone to use this opportunity to go out and pick their PVCs.
“I have collected mine and you can see that I am at the INEC office here, and it is peaceful. Within two minutes they sorted it out and I signed to collect my own. So my advice is for all of us that still have our PVCs uncollected to please come out and do the rightful thing.
“It is only with this that you can participate in next year’s election. I wish all of us the very best and as we go into this exercise, I hope that it is something that is worth it very seriously as another civic responsibility.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence that Lagosians will do the right thing by re-electing him during the governorship poll based on his administration’s performance during the first term.
“We will win because we believe Lagosians will do the right thing. And it is also because we believe that we have earned it; we have worked very hard and will continue to do that.
“We will continue to do our very best to ensure that we earn the trust and the commitment of our people,” he said.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
12 DECEMBER 2022
PRESS STATEMENT
NDUKA OBAIGBENA AND HIS THISDAY/ARISE NEWS’ HYPOCRITICAL GRANDSTANDING ON PUBLIC MORALITY
It is laughably tragic that the Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of THISDAY and Arise News Television, Mr.Nduka Obaigbena, has the temerity to pretend to be a guardian of public morality in contemporary Nigerian media practice.
The fact that this character is an unscrupulous hustler and blackmailer who has done tremendous damage to the journalism profession in the country, is well known within and beyond the profession.
Hiding under his media houses so-called Board of Editors, Obaigbena, who is one of the most irresponsible media owners in the country, with scant regard for corporate good governance and ethics, issued a statement Monday accusing the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) Director of Media and Publicity, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, and Adviser, Media and Communication, Mr. Dele Alake of attempting to silence independent media and bully the press ahead of next year’s general election.
This allegation is baseless.
The statement published on the front page of THISDAY is illustrative of the penchant of the two media houses under Obaigbena’s corrupting influence to peddle falsehood and engage in brazen political partisanship, contrary to the ethics of journalism practice.
It is instructive that Obaigbena’s media group is isolated in making this frivolous allegation against the duo. Not only does THISDAY newspaper publish unfounded rumours masquerading as truth, many of its columnists substitute vile and vulgar abuse for sound logic and informed analyses while its television anchors heckle and harass their guests, particularly those of the APC in their jaundiced, flagrantly unprofessional programmes.
We recall that both THISDAY and ARISE Television sought to bully and compel the APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, into attending its Town Hall meetings with presidential candidates, despite the media team’s explanation that it would not attend such programmes organised in a haphazard and uncoordinated manner by individual media houses.
Each candidate’s campaign team has the right to adopt its own strategies for reaching out to and interacting with Nigerians. As we have repeatedly said, the Tinubu campaign will not succumb to the blackmail, intimidation and harassment of Obaigbena and his media group.
THISDAY’s attempt in the said statement to justify its false news report on the purported death of one Mueez Adegboyega Akande and the attempt to insinuate mischievously that he died in suspicious circumstances failed abysmally. Rather than apologise for this professional lapse, it resorts to tendentious rationalisations. Its futile attempt to link Asiwaju Tinubu to a drug case in the United States, even when as far back as 2003, the United States government had categorically stated that the candidate has no criminal records in that country, shows the depths of mischief the newspaper is willing to descend in its bid to bring down the APC candidate at all costs. This campaign of calumny is doomed to fail as it always has.
Our candidate is focused and will not be distracted by this diversionary tactics to throw mud at him simply because he is the obvious front runner in this race and some believe that the only way to stop him is to peddle falsehood against him.
While pretending to be a public trust, THISDAY and ARISE descend into the political arena by publishing lies in a way that does such a great disservice to journalism. Last month the paper was sanctioned by NBC over a fake report that INEC had ordered a probe of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, over the platforms’ equally fake narrative about our candidate.
Nduka Obaigbena tries to cast aspersion on the professional and personal integrity of Mr. Alake and Mr. Onanuga. They stand on a higher moral and professional pedestal than he can ever aspire to. It is astonishing that a man like Obaigbena can even pretend to be protecting public morality and the public interest. How does this media owner run his media outfits? He is notorious for not paying the salaries of his staff or fulfilling his pensions’ obligations, forcing most of the journalists in his stable to resort to the most unethical practices to survive. This model of media practice, which he exported to South Africa in 2003-2004, failed spectacularly as he had to flee that country as a result of his unethical business practices. His short-lived THISDAY left unpaid debts to staff and the printers and the South African tax office.
He exported the same irresponsible business practice to the UK where he operated his Arise TV as a registered company since 2012. In 2021, judge Raquel Agnello disqualified Obaigbena from serving as a company director in the UK for seven years; in a case brought by the official receiver of the Insolvency Office in the country.
The application for disqualification was made under Section 6 of the Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986 and arose from the compulsory liquidation of Arise Networks Ltd of which Obaigbena was the sole director since its incorporation.
According to the judgment, the company by 2016 had garnered a total debt of £25,671,167, which included debt to trade creditors and staff, estimated at £5,850,730. Judge Agnello found Obaigbena’s conduct as sole director of Arise TV to be unfit and that the company had continued to trade despite “complete uncertainty” about its funding.
In Nigeria, Obaigbena is notorious for owing his staff their salaries. He is also notorious for owning newsprint suppliers for years without payment. This sharp practice led to the ill-health of one of his suppliers, Afilaka, who suffered massive stroke.
While Alake and Onanuga, were known to have endangered their lives in the struggle against military dictatorship and the enthronement of the democracy we enjoy today, Obaigbena was known to have collected substantial sums of money from the military junta to campaign against the June 12, 1993 elections, widely acknowledged as the freest and fairest polls in the country’s history. He even featured on the CNN to justify the annulment of the election and the continuation of military dictatorship. Yet, this man dares to preach on public morality and the national interest. He even claims that Alake and Onanuga are envious of him! How preposterous!! What is there to be envious from a man whose business practices and personal lifestyle offend every known decency. Mr. Alake and Onanuga can never be jealous of a man who uses extortion, subterfuge, and cheap blackmail as his working capital. Here is a publisher who deployed his media group in aid of the immoral and illegal presidential ambition of a sitting Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) even when this flagrantly violated and threatened the integrity of that critical institution.
It is absurd when Obaigbena uses his media outfits to push the false narrative of Tinubu’s link with narcotics in the US, when a member of his Board of Editors and Arise TV anchor, Dr. Reuben Abati, was a running mate in 2019 to the governorship candidate of the PDP in Ogun State, the late Senator Buruji Kashamu; a man who had been indicted for narcotics trafficking in the US and was a fugitive from the laws of that country until his death. The same Abati remains a card carrying member of the PDP and yet, shamelessly pontificates and postures on ARISE TV as a dispassionate analyst.
Lest it be forgotten, Abati was Media Adviser to former President Goodluck Jonathan and was detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in 2015 for reportedly collecting N500 million from ex – National Security Adviser, Colonel Sambo Dasuki purportedly on behalf of the media.
Obaigbena himself was detained for weeks and made to refund N600 million by the EFCC, which was part of the diverted funds for arms purchase for the Nigerian military under Jonathan. Obaigbena as president of NPAN also collected millions of Naira meant as compensation for the media owners whose papers were seized by overzealous security agents during the Jonathan presidency. Many newspapers reported that they did not get the money.
It is a sad commentary on the state of the Nigerian media that a man with no moral scruples whatsoever like Obaigbena will boldly pose as a publisher who can preach morality to others.
Here is a man who has done such grave damage to media practice in Nigeria, posturing as defender of free speech.
Unless media practitioners begin to treat him like the plague and cancer he constitutes to the industry, the future of the industry will be endangered.
It is well known that many private sector corporate executives pay him huge sums of money as retainership to avoid being blackmailed by him. It is also a pity that many of the journalists who work as his employees pose as self-righteous saints who criticise others and keep mum on the unhidden moral deficits and shenanigans of their boss
Issued by DELE ALAKE and BAYO ONANUGA on behalf of the APC Media and Communication Directorates, December 12, 2022
UDUAGHAN HOSTS BURUTU PDP
His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON, the Immediate Past Governor of Delta and Chieftain of the party earlier today hosted leaders and party faithful from Burutu LGA at his GRA Warri residence as part of his peace move to reconcile aggrieved members of the PDP ahead of the 2023 general elections.
While addressing the gathering Dr. Uduaghan used his humble political journey as an illustration that God can pick anybody despite our preferences to fill in any position. He agreed that qualification can give an advantage but it is not the only determinant because all power belongs to God.
Admittedly, the former Governor said it is always painful when one loses a contest but the reality is that there are always winners and losers in every contest. He maintained that the attitude of the winners can make all the differences – either preventing people from leaving a party or further causing polarization as is evident in the many fallouts from the party primaries. But he assured that before the elections, the big PDP family will be united because there has been progress in the peace moves across the state.
He tasked all those who clinched party tickets across all levels to reach out to their opponents, admonishing that a simple phone call or visit will calm aggrieved hearts because everyone spent money.
The leader of Delta South also used the opportunity to appeal to all those aggrieved not to leave or work against the party assuring that the position might reach them in the next contest because politics is a very slippery venture.
- Monoyo Edon,
Media Assistant to His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, CON
9TH DECEMBER, 2022
DELTA PDP TAKES CAMPAIGNS TO LOCAL GOVERNMENTS, AFTER SUCCESSFUL WARD-TO-WARD TOURS
The Peoples Democratic Party PDP, Delta State, is set to commence its Local Government Campaign tour, after completing our comprehensive and resoundingly successful Ward-to-Ward Campaign tours, which took our teams to all the 270 Federal electoral Wards across the 25 LGAs of the State. This is being complemented with our Ongoing Unit-to-Unit Campaigns.
The focus of our decision to embark on the robust and aggressive ward-to-ward Campaigns, is in line with our established tradition at every election season, to bring the party and our programmes directly to the people, and we have accomplished this objective excellently.
Our Local Government Campaign tours will commence on Wednesday, 21st December, 2022 at Patani and Bomadi LGAs and will be concluded on Monday, 6th February, 2023 in Ika South and Ika North East Local Government Areas of Delta State.
As usual, all our Campaign activities will be conducted within the stipulated schedule of the election timetable and in accordance with the rules and guidelines in the Electoral law.
We appeal to all Deltans to turn out en masse for all our Campaign rallies in all the LGAs as we march towards consolidating our #StrongerDelta agenda, in order to achieve landslide victory across board, in the 2023 elections and to do #MORE for our beloved Deltans.
PDP! Power to the People!!
Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza.
Deputy Director, Media/Publicity Committee,
Delta PDP Campaign Council and
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.
10TH DECEMBER, 2022
Delta APC: Life Cycle Of Lies, Illusion And Delusion
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State has dismissed as cant, the story by the camp of the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) that claims falsely in its headline that “Crisis in Delta PDP, as party excos, unit leaders, canvassers, dumps (sic) party.”
While treating the online publication with disdain, PDP in a Press Release signed by the Deputy Director, Media and Publicity Committee, PDP Campaign Council, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza said that the claim that Delta State PDP is in crisis confirms the persistent disinformation embarked on by the clueless APC even in the face of strong contradictory evidence, proves the opposition party and those behind the propaganda as possessing symptom of a psychiatric condition.
It’s inconceivable that anyone, will against all caution imposed by the ambiance of peace and calm that pervades the PDP across Delta State prefer to live in delusion by claiming and wanting the good and right-thinking people of the State to believe the deception that “Peoples Democratic Party in Delta State has been thrown into further crisis as party executives, unit leaders, party canvassers.”
Urging Deltans to ignore the APC lies and figment of its imagination, PDP said there’s no iota of truth in the APC story, but propaganda with the intention to trick the unwary to believe something that does not correspond with the known and observable fact.
The observable fact is that PDP in Delta State is united; it is in peace and working hard collectively across the State to ensure that all its candidates across board win the 2023 elections with massive votes. The party that has just concluded the arduous runs when its campaign trains cruised through all the Wards in the State, selling its candidates and evangelizing for the people’s votes in an atmosphere that was devoid of rancour cannot be the same party that APC wants people to believe is a party in crisis.
Indeed, all the party leaders, chieftains, followers, and supporters received the campaign train with fanfare, turning the Ward campaigns into carnivals even as the candidates were introduced to the people on each occasion. Besides, many former members of the APC dumped the party, made bonfires of the broom, the party’s symbol, and were received into the PDP.
At the PDP Ward campaigns, APC was exposed and likened to the ‘expired bad drug” that Nigerians must avoid like the leper. It has even been said severally that those who will vote for APC will define the number of mad people in Nigeria. Is it the party with this type of profile and perception that Deltans want to go with?
It is no news, therefore, that APC is Nigeria’s Achilles heel, and has been rejected. In Delta State, our Governorship candidate, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori is riding high, and with his M.O.R.E. agenda, he is set to deliver to Deltans a State where love, peace, prosperity for all is the principal focus.
PDP therefore, calls on Deltans to ignore the APC cycle of lies, illusion, and delusion.
PDP All-The-Way!
PDP! Power to the people!!
Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza.
Deputy Director,
Media/Publicity Committee,
Delta PDP Campaign Council and
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.
12TH DECEMBER, 2022.
DELTA PDP SALUTES HIS EXCELLENCY, DR. EMMANUEL UDUAGHAN, DESCRIBES HIM AS A RARE STATESMAN WITH A HEART OF GOLD
The Delta State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign Council has expressed its deep and profound gratitude to His Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, the immediate past Governor of Delta State, describing him as a rare statesman, with a heart of gold and a generational leader, whose contributions to the development of Delta State and contributions towards the strengthening and deepening of our democracy, will remain indelible in the annals of our State and National chronicles.
This commendation was contained in a Press Release by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, Deputy Director,
Media and Publicity Committee,
Delta State PDP Campaign Council, in recognition and appreciation of the decision of the former Governor, not only in graciously hosting the Delta South PDP, Stakeholders Meeting at his residence, but in his unequivocal pledge and promise to throw his considerable political weight, and immense personal support, behind the ambitions of all PDP Candidates in the forthcoming 2023 elections, especially Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who is the Vice-Presidential Candidate of the PDP.
The statement reads: “Your Excellency, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan (Asamaigor), the Delta State PDP family is deeply, profoundly, and eternally grateful to you for the sterling leadership and inspiring statesmanship you displayed, when you hosted the Delta South PDP leaders and stakeholders at your residence, to kickstart our Ward-to-Ward campaigns in the Senatorial zone, on Monday, November 14, 2022.
“We were pleasantly surprised to witness once again, your great candour, symbolic charisma, and that natural aura of commanding presence and authority which comes so effortlessly to you, as you rolled back the years and held your party members spellbound, with that admirable interaction which contributed greatly in building and consolidating the image and reputation of the PDP into the formidable force we achieved, with you as the leader of our party.
“Your legendary generousity was again showcased magnificently, as you not only graciously hosted the Delta South PDP family at your residence and even offered the facility to the Party to utilize for its subsequent activities whenever the need arises, you equally calmed our nerves and uncertainties with the unequivocal and reassuring assurances that you have thrown your considerable political weight and pledged your “full chest” support to all our candidates, especially His Excellency, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, who is your successor and now the Vice-Presidential candidate of the PDP, in the forthcoming 2023 elections.
“As though these powerful statements and actions were not loud enough, you graciously embraced our Governorship candidate Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori at the meeting of the Federal Government College, Warri Old Students Association (FEGOCOWOSA) in Effurun, and in your legendary peaceful disposition and display of politics without bitterness, you followed up that ‘neutral ground’ meeting in Effurun by going to visit Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori at his residence in Osubi, accompanied by key stakeholders and candidates from Delta South and Central Senatorial zones, in your entourage.
“In addition, you recently hosted party leaders and stakeholders from Burutu Local Government Area at your residence in Warri, and your very central involvement and robust participation during our Ward-to-Ward Campaigns in the Delta South Senatorial zone, coupled with your consistent charge and admonition for all party members and indeed Deltans, to embrace His Excellency, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, the Vice-Presidential candidate of the PDP as a collective Delta project because he is one of our own, have all been much more than we could ever have asked for, demanded and even hoped for from you.
“No pledge could be greater, no assurance sweeter and no support more motivational than the immense and inspiring import of your comments and commitment, in your rightful, incontestable status as one of the great leaders of our party, and with the formidable team of candidates we have assembled for the State and National Assemblies, complemented by our own Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, “Ekwueme”, poised for the Vice-Presidency and surely heading to Aso Rock, the cause of achieving overwhelming landslide victories for the PDP at all levels, in the 2023 elections is already in the bag; a “fait accompli”.
“There are absolutely no doubts, from now henceforth, that your support and commitment will serve as a tremendous boost of encouragement and fillip to all our teeming party members, both loyalists, and contestants, to embrace the remaining campaigns with greater zeal and vigour in the knowledge that, with our leaders like you championing the party, our victory is fully guaranteed.
“We thank you most sincerely for this unparalleled vote of confidence, which has reinforced our trust and faith in the party to deliver and we are truly blessed to have a rare statesman and leader like you with a beautiful heart of gold, the genuine spirit of forgiveness and the unwavering conviction of a true peacemaker, in your concerted quest to ensure that peace and harmony reigns in the PDP.
“Thank you, Your Excellency, for being the great leader you are and will always be. By hosting and bringing the PDP family in Delta South together, you have shocked our detractors into confused speechlessness, truncated their temporary, unfounded glee over a non-existent disenchantment within our party, and proven with a resounding master stroke, that PDP is Delta and Delta is still and will continue to be PDP. It can only get better and brighter from now on.
“We salute you, the one and only Asamaigor! Agberendiden!!”
PDP! Power to the People.
Dr. Ifeanyi M. Osuoza.
Deputy Director,
Media/Publicity Committee,
Delta PDP Campaign Council and
State Publicity Secretary,
PDP, Delta State.
PRESS STATEMENT
RECOVER WETIN? LET NIGERIANS BE WARY OF ATIKU ABUBAKAR’S SUGAR-COATED PROMISES, HE DOES NOT MEAN WELL
We need to warn Nigerians to be wary of the sugar-coated promises of former vice president, Atiku Abubakar and his Peoples Democratic Party as they embark on their inordinate and desperate campaign to gain power at all cost.
A party that should be eternally shameful about its appalling record in governance between 1999-2015 is now busy rewriting history, embellishing the locust years as if it was a golden era in our history.
Of course, this is fake history at its worst. We are not fooled. Nigerians should also not be fooled about the boldfaced lies, being articulated by the candidate and his party.
What is more shocking is Atiku’s audacity in standing up to ask for our votes despite what his boss, President Olusegun Obasanjo wrote about him in his book, ‘My Watch’. Obasanjo wrote that it would have been an unpardonable mistake “and sin against God to foist him on Nigeria”. Obasanjo still believes so till tomorrow.
Obasanjo still rues till today making Atiku his vice president in 1999, only to discover later,
“his shadowy parentage, his propensity to corruption, his tendency to disloyalty, his inability to say and stick to the truth all the time, a propensity for poor judgment, his belief and reliance on marabouts, his lack of transparency, his trust in money to buy his way out on all issues and his readiness to sacrifice morality, integrity, propriety, truth and national interest for self and selfish interest.”
We are, however, not totally surprised about Atiku’s latest desperation.
Aware that this is his last shot at the elusive presidency, Atiku, while on the hustings, has been spewing series of lies, making empty promises and presenting a false narrative about our present reality and the legacy of the 16-year ignoble era of the PDP administration, of which he was a principal actor.
He claimed at his rally in Abuja on Saturday that the country is not secure for trading and farming, a false narrative that he has been pushing around for some time, since he relocated to Nigeria from his base in Dubai, principally to contest the election.
We believe in his private moment that Atiku will concede that his view about insecurity is exaggerated. Our country is certainly better secure than in 2015 when the PDP allowed insurgents to seize 17 local councils in Borno and some four councils in Atiku’s home state of Adamawa State, when Abuja was under constant bomb attacks and people slept with eyes wide open. What further proof of progress made by the APC does Atiku need than the fact that he was able, recently, to carry his party men and women to Maiduguri to hold a rally, without any attacks by insurgents and bandits. Atiku can also drive smoothly from Yola, his state capital to Jada, his home town on a reconstructed road by the Buhari-led APC administration. The road was impassable for 8 years Atiku was Vice President and got progressively bad and totally cut off from civilisation until the Buhari government reconstructed it.
Atiku claimed that our country has the highest number of out-of school children in the world, without telling his audience that the problem, which was exacerbated by banditry in North West and insurgency in North East, took its root from the stewardship of his party when the population of out-of-school children phenomenally rose from 10.5 million in 2010 to 13.2 million in 2015.
The most grotesque of Atiku’s promise is that he will ensure that the ASUU stopped going on strike so that universities “reopen forever and ever.” Mr Atiku forgot to tell his audience that a PDP government in 2009 signed an agreement with ASUU, which it never implemented for six years, leaving the mess of the agreement for APC to deal with.
Meanwhile, as Nigerian universities were left to rot under the PDP’s watch , Atiku and his boss, President Olusegun Obasanjo opted to set up their own universities, ABTI-American University and Bell University, meant for the children of the rich.
A pointer that this former vice-president has not changed in his character as portrayed by Obasanjo was his promise to sell the newly commercialised NNPC Ltd and all its assets and subsidiaries for just $10 billion. Even before inviting bids, he had already undervalued the oil conglomerate, the way he undervalued Nigerian companies he was asked to sell, under the abused privatisation programme of the Obasanjo administration. Nigerians will remember that he made a similar promise in 2019, saying he would sell the NNPC to his friends and cronies. Surely, he retains the same mindset, though he has changed the terminology to ‘privatisation’.
In his campaign. Atiku’s refrain has been to tell the less discerning Nigerians that he is on a recovery and restoration mission in presenting himself to be elected.
The question every Nigerian must ask him in pidgin is: Recover Wetin?
Can the PDP ever be a recovery vehicle for our country, judging by its old record of service, when it spent $16 billion on power that only resulted in worsening darkness?
Can the party ever be a recovery vehicle when it also midwifed the privatisation of power distribution to cronies, also leading to more darkness.
Now the nation’s hope for uninterrupted electricity lies on the $2.5 billion Nigeria-Siemens deal, initiated by the Buhari administration.
We need to further ask whether the PDP is hoping to be a recovery vehicle for our armed forces, when during its stewardship, it diverted billions of dollars allocated for arms, into private pockets and marabouts. Our ill-equipped soldiers, were left to die as they faced guerrillas with superior weapons.
Today, the APC government of President Buhari has changed the misfortune of our armed forces and boosted morale with modern weapons, fighter jets, warships and others.
We ask again, can a party that cannot recover itself due to its internal implosion and crisis recover and rescue Nigeria? Let PDP rescue and recover itself and its abandoned national secretariat first. After raising over N20billion to build a national party office, PDP and its leaders plundered the money the same way they plundered our country.
Our advice to Nigerians is to ignore anything Atiku Abubakar says. He is a bloody liar and a desperate politician who should never be trusted.
Atiku is not coming to recover Nigeria from anything, he is only coming to restore it back into his pocket and those of his cronies.
Bayo Onanuga
Director of Media & Publicity,
APC Presidential Campaign Council
December, 11, 2022
RETAINING PRESIDENCY IN THE NORTH IS BAD AS MUSLIM -MUSLIM TICKET – WIKE
*We won’t allow any unscrupulous politician unleash violence in Rivers
Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has told those who say that Nigeria is not ripe for muslim-muslim ticket not to also justify and embrace the efforts at retaining the presidency in the North.
Governor Wike spoke on Sunday at the special dedication service for the Rivers State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 2023 General Election Campaigns Rallies, which held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Port Harcourt.
Governor Wike maintained that those involved in such double-speak and trying to hoodwink some gullible few, know that they are insulting the sensibility of well meaning Nigerians who want a united country that advances national cohesion.
“You play on people’s intelligence; you say Nigeria is not ripe for muslim-muslim ticket, I agree. But Nigeria is ripe for presidency to remain in one zone? I mean, just look at the insult. You blow hot and cold.”
Governor Wike urged those people who delightfully condemn the muslim-muslim ticket as wrong, should also know that Nigerians are also saying it is wrong to retain the presidency in the North after President Muhammadu Buhari.
“Most of you just sit there, you don’t ask yourselves questions. Somebody continues to sell this kind of cheap ideas. You don’t ask the person, I agree with what you are saying but look at what we are saying here.”
He further added, “Your party wants the presidency to go to the same zone where president Muhammadu Buhari is coming from. Who is cheating who?”
The Rivers State governor also spoke reminding the church of the need for it to participate in the voting process. However, he said, it should not get involved to the extent of serving as cannon fodder against any political party or political actor.
Governor Wike pleaded with the church to be careful and resist those politicians who come to mobilise them as if there is a religious war to wage.
“It is not now that politics have come, you want to come and tell the church a different story for your own personal interest. We have to be careful so that the church is not destroyed. Because, all of us, for example, we are Anglicans, I will not allow anybody, for his selfish interest to destroy the church of Nigeria. I will not allow that.”
Meanwhile, governor Wike has warned that his administration will not allow those who in the past instigated wanton destruction of lives and property in the State under the guise of politics to repeat same.
Governor Wike appealed to members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in the State to resist deliberate attempt by some disgruntled and inconsequential politicians to provoke them ahead of the 2023 general elections.
He described as ludicrous and cheap blackmail the allegation by Dr. Abiye Sekibo and some of his associates that the State government recently resent thugs to attack them.
“Some people are saying we sent thugs to attack them. You see, when people see failure, they will begin to plan excuses. These are people all of us know our background and how we have won election in our various local government. I remember one of them during the last election could not even go to his local government. He ran down to Port Harcourt and stayed with me. Instead of you to tell your principal, this will be difficult for me, you are giving excuses.”
The governor who emphatically declared that he has never engaged in any acts of political violence in all his political career, warn those who might be planning to plunge the State into chaos to have a rethink.
“Anybody who knows me know, that I have never been violent. If I am violent, I won’t go to court. But we know those who planted killings in this State when they were Secretary to government. We know them, but that killing will not happen again in the State. We will not give you the opportunity to try it again.”
Governor Wike explained that the reason why Dr Sekibo and his associates are begrudging him is simply because he did not support their ambition to emerge to get the PDP governorship ticket.
On the issue of Executive Order 21 and 22, the governor advised politicians in the State to approach the court rather than take the laws into their hands. He insisted that until the court declares otherwise, the government will ensure full implementation of the orders.
“The Federal Government has come up with so many Executive Orders, we didn’t kill anybody, but we went to court to challenge such others. The Federal Government has done a lot of things that Rivers state had challenged in court, and by the grace of God, we won.
“If there is anything any government has done which you feel you are not comfortable with, you have to go to court and challenge it, and not just to come out to shout they don’t want you to campaign. Why will anybody not like you to campaign.”
Governor Wike declared that there was nothing wrong with the PDP dragging other political parties to court over their failure to comply with Independent National Electoral Commission electoral guidelines. According to him, sure litigations are part of Nigeria’s electoral process.
“When I know you have made mistake not to run an election, I should leave you? All we are saying is INEC comply with the law. You made us to comply with the law. Why are these people not complying with the law. Why should you allow us to pass through the process we passed through and you did not allow these other people to pass through that process. We said look, this is what the law says. INEC is like you are being partial . It is like you are applying this law differently to different persons.”
In his sermon, the cathedral archdeacon of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Venerable Obinna Ochulor spoke on the topic; “God our refuge” and exhorted the congregation to acknowledge the infallibility of God always.
He pointed to how people often rush to the altar of God to make vows when they are either experiencing critical situation but would refuse to return to fulfil them when they have triumphed.
While vows are important to be fulfilled, he admonished the congregation and particularly the PDP family to trust in God as their defence and shield so that they can enjoy his protection against all shades of evil.
December 11, 2022.
PRESS RELEASE
2023: WE’LL SUPPORT YOUR RE-ELECTION, AYANGBUREN, IKORODU LEADERS ASSURE SANWO-OLU
Traditional rulers and leaders in Ikorodu division of Lagos State, as well as leaders and members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and Ikorodu-based social club, Oriwu Club, have thrown their weight behind Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for second term in office.
They said they are satisfied with the performance of Governor Sanwo-Olu in the last three and half years of his first term in office and therefore they will work tirelessly to ensure that he is re-elected in 2023.
Speaking during an official investiture ceremony of Governor Sanwo-Olu as the Grand Patron of Oriwu Club in Ikorodu on Sunday, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, His Royal Majesty, Oba Kabiru Sotobi; a member of the Senate representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Senator Tokunbo Abiru, President, Oriwu Club Ikorodu, Otunba Adekunle Oduborisa and his vice, Hon. Ola Animasahun, said the people of Ikorodu and Lagos State in general have benefitted a lot from the incumbent administration and therefore the governor deserved to be re-elected.
APC leaders in Ikorodu during a meeting with Governor Sanwo-Olu after his investiture also promised to deliver Ikorodu to the governor and other APC candidates in next year general elections by scoring 300 votes in each of the polling units in Ikorodu Local Government Area.
Governor Sanwo-Olu was decorated as the Grand Patron of Oriwu Club Ikorodu in recognition of his leadership and good governance in Lagos.
Speaking at the event, Oba Sotobi commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for the visible development in Ikorodu division, especially the establishment of the Lagos State University of Science and Technology and the ongoing rehabilitation of the Ikorodu roundabout to Sabo to reduce traffic gridlock on that corridor, with a call for the upgrade of Baales to first class traditional rulers.
In his remark, Senator Abiru said Governor Sanwo-Olu has exhibited courage in the midst of turbulence in Lagos State, noting that the governor deserved to be re-elected based on his performance in the first term.
He said Governor Sanwo-Olu has delivered dividends of democracy through infrastructural development for the people of Ikorodu and Lagos State at large.
The President of the Oriwu Club, Oduborisa, said the investiture of Governor Sanwo-Olu as the Grand Patron of the club was to celebrate the resilience and diligence of the Governor in the last three and half years.
Noting that a social club is not for socialising alone, but also giving back to the society, Oduborisa promised that Oriwu club which has done many Corporate Social Responsibilities in Ikorodu Division, will also renovate the Agbala Paediatric Centre, the first General Hospital in Ikorodu.
While reeling out some of his achievements and ongoing projects in the Ikorodu Division and other parts of Lagos State, Governor Sanwo-olu promised to support the social club to actualise the hospital project, which will impact on children and parents and also pledged to build a new General Hospital in Ikorodu within the next three years
“We will make life better for the people. I want to assure you that this government is committed and by the grace of God if you give us your support and we come back again, we will double our effort and commit ourselves again because the only reward for good work is for us to do more work. And it is only when we do that, that we can make our own town, city and state a place of choice,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu while addressing APC leaders and members after the investiture ceremony, urged them to work for his re-election as well as the victory of the APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and other party’s candidates in next year’s general elections.
Speaking at the event, members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), the apex leadership body in Lagos APC, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye and Ashipa Kaoli Olusanya, assured that Governor Sanwo-Olu and other APC candidates will score 300 votes per polling unit in next year’s elections.
They said their plan is to deliver 205,000 votes out of the targeted four million votes for Governor Sanwo-Olu to be re-elected.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
12 DECEMBER 2022
2022 LONG SERVICE AWARDS: JULIUS BERGER HONOURS 647 WORKERS FOR PRODUCTIVE AND BRILLIANT PERFORMANCE
The Executive Director Administration of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi, fniob, has described the company’s human capital as the reliable bedrock, which has continued to define the company’s strong performance in the industry and market. Bayi made the remark at the 2022 Long Service Awards Ceremony of the Company, which held in Abuja FCT. Bayi said, ‘‘…as worthy staff of our great company, your continuing hard work, loyalty, commitment, resilience, experience and cooperation, as well as the meticulous planning and continuous investments in both human capital and technology by the Company have all helped greatly in the laudable stability we have achieved as a corporate entity.”
According to Bayi, the award ceremony is an annual event to recognize Julius Berger’s long-serving staff and to show appreciation to the workers for their contribution towards the continued success and progress of the Company. “It is our annual tradition in Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to appreciate and reward well-deserving staff.” He said 647 serving staff were honoured at the 2022 event. Bayi, on behalf of the executive management, acknowledged the workers as the bedrock of the Company. “Your loyal commitment, excellent professionalism, tenacity and can-do spirit have kept the Company on a steady path of progress through the years. This long service award event is in recognition of your good work, and also the reciprocal commitment of the Company towards our highly valued workforce.”,” said Bayi.
The Executive Director also said that in the outgoing year, Julius Berger put into place structures for optimization of productivity across the entire spectrum of the Company’s operations in order to keep the Company competitive and further support sustainable performance in the Company’s business for the years to come.
Bayi celebrated the leadership of the company, saying, “…under the strategic guidance of our diverse and extensively experienced Board of Directors, and the able operational dynamism of the Executive Management, regional teams and different heads of departments, Julius Berger has remained dynamic, successful and steadily primed for even greater success in the near future.” Bayi further added that, “the collegiate experience of the members of the Board of Directors and Executive Management, coupled with their collective determination to continue taking this company to the next level, has made Julius Berger the enviable and desirable destination for every serious investor in the market, today. To keep afloat as a going business concern, the Board of Directors and Executive Management, he said, developed three strategic pillars for Julius Berger’s operations, namely, the company’s core construction business, its well-integrated subsidiaries; and its transformative diversification policy. The operation of the above three pillars, Bayi said, has resulted in a positive client mix for the company from both the public and private sectors, adding, “good results are emerging.”
To a round of appreciative applause from the teeming workers and guests present at the event, the Director of Administration stated that, “…it is a testimony to the very focused work of the Board and Management that Julius Berger has received several recognition awards, amongst which is the most recent 2022 Pearl award as the Highest Dividend Growth Company in the Nigerian Stock Market.” Bayi called the Pearl award “…a bold and credible evidence of the company’s robust productivity and progressive success.”
Speaking on industrial harmony within Julius Berger’s operations, the director of administration said that due to the constant, mutual consultation between the junior workers’ Union and the senior staff Association, and the Management on all pertinent issues, the company has continued to enjoy industrial peace nationwide. “I make bold to say that, as evidence of the well-nurtured, closely guarded and continuing industrial harmony between Management and our teeming workers, we are again this year rewarding a total number of 647 workers for their unbroken record of productive service and brilliant performance to the company over the years,” Bayi said. The understanding and cooperation between the company’s workforce, the workers’ industrial Union and Association on the one hand, and the Management on the other hand, Bayi highlighted, has remained helpfully peaceful and productive. This, he said, will be mutually sustained for the progressive growth of the company.
With regard to staff development policy and initiatives by the company, Bayi informed the workers that, “…Management attaches high priority to planned enhanced value of our workers…. During the year, thousands of our workers were trained and retrained; cutting across professional courses with relevant professional bodies, Health Safety and Environment, as well as local training for artisans at the strategic Julius Berger Plant and Equipment Academy, which only recently graduated its first set of trainees.” Management, Bayi stated, envisioned the Academy to be “a leader institution in technical training, the company’s funnel for dynamic, highly trained and resourceful technicians to fill the needs of the company and the industry in general.”
The 2022 long service awardees have worked without break of service for periods ranging from 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and, believe it, to 45 years of service. Their categories and numbers are as follows:10 years (195 Awardees);15 years (307 Awardees); 20 years (62 Awardees); 25 years (41 Awardees); 30 years (20 Awardees); 35 years (17 Awardees); 40 years (4 Awardees); and 45 years (1 Awardee)
Bayi identified a synergy between the large number of the 2022 long service awardees, the commensurate huge volume of man-hours they put into their jobs during the year, and the company’s proud HSE legacy. He said, “…with regard to the Company’s Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) achievements, Julius Berger has a proud and in fact unmatched industry record of Lost Time-Frequency Rate of 0.19, which is less than one Lost Time Injury for every five million man-hours worked.” These operational HSE policies, Bayi added, are now imbibed and observed in the way Julius Berger personnel conduct themselves in and out of the workplace.
On the company’s responsibility towards its host communities, Bayi said Julius Berger has also been proactive with its initiatives that rest on four pillars, namely Health, Education, Sports, and Emergency Response Assistance. He added also that the company’s most recent donation of food to flood victims across its operational areas, its continuing donations to hospitals and orphanages, its educational assistance and book donation initiatives to schools, are all targeted at supporting community-based initiatives in order to promote social and economic inclusivity.
Speaking on the future of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Alhaji Bayi drew the attention of the workers to the words of the Managing Director, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter, during the company’s recent Investor Relations Forum, where the MD confidently stated, “Julius Berger, today, is endowed with the largest market share, limited competition of similar scale, quality and financial capacity. We have a strong brand equity, a seasoned management, an experienced and diverse Board of Directors, and a well-defined Diversification Strategy; all projecting for a strongly-rooted and positive business outlook…” The Managing Director, Bayi further highlighted, had emphasized that the company, “is synonymous with the best quality infrastructure in Nigeria, and the company is assigned… a Stable Outlook with a National Scale rating of A.” At this juncture, looking straight at the attentive workers, Bayi then fully aligned with Engr. Dr. Richter and said: “Ladies and gentlemen, on this occasion of the year 2022 Long Service Awards, I say to you, Julius Berger’s business future remains only progressively good and beneficial to both its shareholders and workforce.”
Bayi also thanked the spouses of the long service award recipients saying, “…whether as wives or husbands, let me also congratulate and thank all the spouses of the awardees for their support, encouragement and perseverance through the years. Without your co-operation, these recipients would not have had the zeal to perform their enviable duties over the years for which they are now honoured. We are therefore grateful for all you have done to make this day possible.”
As the company appreciated the long service awardees, Bayi enjoined the workers to let the occasion to serve as a tonic to propel them to greater heights, as the company shall continually recognise and reward deserving staff. The Director of Administration also craved the understanding of the workers to understand and accept the administrative and structural changes being implemented across the company, emphasizing that the ongoing changes are designed for the further development of the company to achieve its identified goals.
Finally, Bayi used the occasion to thank the members of the Press who were present for what he referred to as their very kind and positive cooperation and work with the company since the year began. “As society’s chief opinion moulders, by your deeply rational understanding and objective reportage of our numerous projects and endeavours across the country, you have continued to sustain our critically necessary and hard-earned good image with the Nigerian public. We appreciate your partnership for peaceful progress in our business operations. On behalf of the Board, Management and entire staff of Julius Berger, I say to the media that we remain partners in progress. Thank you very much,” Bayi said.
Alhaji Bayi congratulated the awardees and wished them, their families and their guests a happy yuletide season and safe travels, even as they continued their well-deserved celebration. The Julius Berger Long service award for 2022 held in all of the company’s operational regions as well
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is the country’s leading construction company offering holistic services covering the planning, design, engineering, construction, operation and maintenance of buildings, infrastructure and industry projects in Nigeria.
Since its pioneer project in 1965, Julius Berger has played a pivotal role in the development of Nigeria’s industrial and civil infrastructure. The company specialises in executing complex works requiring the highest level of technical expertise and Nigeria-specific knowhow. The company deploys state-of-the-art methods and precision technologies to ensure that quality and innovation are prioritised for the benefit of clients. Subsidiaries and additional facilities make it possible for the company to realise multifaceted projects at the highest level of performance. This structure allows Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to effectively manage and fulfil construction projects, starting from the initial idea, through to planning, design, engineering, construction, operation and maintenance.
The Group is guided by a value system that defines and differentiates it. Adherence to internationally specified standards and a focus on efficient and value-driven delivery of services further solidifies its competitive edge. With unwavering reliability, unmatched quality, leading governance and a true focus on sustainability, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc and its subsidiaries continue to set a benchmark for success.

RETAINING PRESIDENCY IN THE NORTH IS BAD AS MUSLIM -MUSLIM TICKET – WIKE
*We won’t allow any unscrupulous politician unleash violence in Rivers
Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has told those who say that Nigeria is not ripe for muslim-muslim ticket not to also justify and embrace the efforts at retaining the presidency in the North.
Governor Wike spoke on Sunday at the special dedication service for the Rivers State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 2023 General Election Campaigns Rallies, which held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Port Harcourt.
Governor Wike maintained that those involved in such double-speak and trying to hoodwink some gullible few, know that they are insulting the sensibility of well meaning Nigerians who want a united country that advances national cohesion.
“You play on people’s intelligence; you say Nigeria is not ripe for muslim-muslim ticket, I agree. But Nigeria is ripe for presidency to remain in one zone? I mean, just look at the insult. You blow hot and cold.”
Governor Wike urged those people who delightfully condemn the muslim-muslim ticket as wrong, should also know that Nigerians are also saying it is wrong to retain the presidency in the North after President Muhammadu Buhari.
“Most of you just sit there, you don’t ask yourselves questions. Somebody continues to sell this kind of cheap ideas. You don’t ask the person, I agree with what you are saying but look at what we are saying here.”
He further added, “Your party wants the presidency to go to the same zone where president Muhammadu Buhari is coming from. Who is cheating who?”
The Rivers State governor also spoke reminding the church of the need for it to participate in the voting process. However, he said, it should not get involved to the extent of serving as cannon fodder against any political party or political actor.
Governor Wike pleaded with the church to be careful and resist those politicians who come to mobilise them as if there is a religious war to wage.
“It is not now that politics have come, you want to come and tell the church a different story for your own personal interest. We have to be careful so that the church is not destroyed. Because, all of us, for example, we are Anglicans, I will not allow anybody, for his selfish interest to destroy the church of Nigeria. I will not allow that.”
Meanwhile, governor Wike has warned that his administration will not allow those who in the past instigated wanton destruction of lives and property in the State under the guise of politics to repeat same.
Governor Wike appealed to members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in the State to resist deliberate attempt by some disgruntled and inconsequential politicians to provoke them ahead of the 2023 general elections.
He described as ludicrous and cheap blackmail the allegation by Dr. Abiye Sekibo and some of his associates that the State government recently resent thugs to attack them.
“Some people are saying we sent thugs to attack them. You see, when people see failure, they will begin to plan excuses. These are people all of us know our background and how we have won election in our various local government. I remember one of them during the last election could not even go to his local government. He ran down to Port Harcourt and stayed with me. Instead of you to tell your principal, this will be difficult for me, you are giving excuses.”
The governor who emphatically declared that he has never engaged in any acts of political violence in all his political career, warn those who might be planning to plunge the State into chaos to have a rethink.
“Anybody who knows me know, that I have never been violent. If I am violent, I won’t go to court. But we know those who planted killings in this State when they were Secretary to government. We know them, but that killing will not happen again in the State. We will not give you the opportunity to try it again.”
Governor Wike explained that the reason why Dr Sekibo and his associates are begrudging him is simply because he did not support their ambition to emerge to get the PDP governorship ticket.
On the issue of Executive Order 21 and 22, the governor advised politicians in the State to approach the court rather than take the laws into their hands. He insisted that until the court declares otherwise, the government will ensure full implementation of the orders.
“The Federal Government has come up with so many Executive Orders, we didn’t kill anybody, but we went to court to challenge such others. The Federal Government has done a lot of things that Rivers state had challenged in court, and by the grace of God, we won.
“If there is anything any government has done which you feel you are not comfortable with, you have to go to court and challenge it, and not just to come out to shout they don’t want you to campaign. Why will anybody not like you to campaign.”
Governor Wike declared that there was nothing wrong with the PDP dragging other political parties to court over their failure to comply with Independent National Electoral Commission electoral guidelines. According to him, sure litigations are part of Nigeria’s electoral process.
“When I know you have made mistake not to run an election, I should leave you? All we are saying is INEC comply with the law. You made us to comply with the law. Why are these people not complying with the law. Why should you allow us to pass through the process we passed through and you did not allow these other people to pass through that process. We said look, this is what the law says. INEC is like you are being partial . It is like you are applying this law differently to different persons.”
In his sermon, the cathedral archdeacon of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Venerable Obinna Ochulor spoke on the topic; “God our refuge” and exhorted the congregation to acknowledge the infallibility of God always.
He pointed to how people often rush to the altar of God to make vows when they are either experiencing critical situation but would refuse to return to fulfil them when they have triumphed.
While vows are important to be fulfilled, he admonished the congregation and particularly the PDP family to trust in God as their defence and shield so that they can enjoy his protection against all shades of evil.
December 11, 2022.
PRESS RELEASE
2023: WE’LL SUPPORT YOUR RE-ELECTION, AYANGBUREN, IKORODU LEADERS ASSURE SANWO-OLU
Traditional rulers and leaders in Ikorodu division of Lagos State, as well as leaders and members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and Ikorodu-based social club, Oriwu Club, have thrown their weight behind Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for second term in office.
They said they are satisfied with the performance of Governor Sanwo-Olu in the last three and half years of his first term in office and therefore they will work tirelessly to ensure that he is re-elected in 2023.
Speaking during an official investiture ceremony of Governor Sanwo-Olu as the Grand Patron of Oriwu Club in Ikorodu on Sunday, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, His Royal Majesty, Oba Kabiru Sotobi; a member of the Senate representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Senator Tokunbo Abiru, President, Oriwu Club Ikorodu, Otunba Adekunle Oduborisa and his vice, Hon. Ola Animasahun, said the people of Ikorodu and Lagos State in general have benefitted a lot from the incumbent administration and therefore the governor deserved to be re-elected.
APC leaders in Ikorodu during a meeting with Governor Sanwo-Olu after his investiture also promised to deliver Ikorodu to the governor and other APC candidates in next year general elections by scoring 300 votes in each of the polling units in Ikorodu Local Government Area.
Governor Sanwo-Olu was decorated as the Grand Patron of Oriwu Club Ikorodu in recognition of his leadership and good governance in Lagos.
Speaking at the event, Oba Sotobi commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for the visible development in Ikorodu division, especially the establishment of the Lagos State University of Science and Technology and the ongoing rehabilitation of the Ikorodu roundabout to Sabo to reduce traffic gridlock on that corridor, with a call for the upgrade of Baales to first class traditional rulers.
In his remark, Senator Abiru said Governor Sanwo-Olu has exhibited courage in the midst of turbulence in Lagos State, noting that the governor deserved to be re-elected based on his performance in the first term.
He said Governor Sanwo-Olu has delivered dividends of democracy through infrastructural development for the people of Ikorodu and Lagos State at large.
The President of the Oriwu Club, Oduborisa, said the investiture of Governor Sanwo-Olu as the Grand Patron of the club was to celebrate the resilience and diligence of the Governor in the last three and half years.
Noting that a social club is not for socialising alone, but also giving back to the society, Oduborisa promised that Oriwu club which has done many Corporate Social Responsibilities in Ikorodu Division, will also renovate the Agbala Paediatric Centre, the first General Hospital in Ikorodu.
While reeling out some of his achievements and ongoing projects in the Ikorodu Division and other parts of Lagos State, Governor Sanwo-olu promised to support the social club to actualise the hospital project, which will impact on children and parents and also pledged to build a new General Hospital in Ikorodu within the next three years
“We will make life better for the people. I want to assure you that this government is committed and by the grace of God if you give us your support and we come back again, we will double our effort and commit ourselves again because the only reward for good work is for us to do more work. And it is only when we do that, that we can make our own town, city and state a place of choice,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu while addressing APC leaders and members after the investiture ceremony, urged them to work for his re-election as well as the victory of the APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and other party’s candidates in next year’s general elections.
Speaking at the event, members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), the apex leadership body in Lagos APC, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye and Ashipa Kaoli Olusanya, assured that Governor Sanwo-Olu and other APC candidates will score 300 votes per polling unit in next year’s elections.
They said their plan is to deliver 205,000 votes out of the targeted four million votes for Governor Sanwo-Olu to be re-elected.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
12 DECEMBER 2022
2022 LONG SERVICE AWARDS: JULIUS BERGER HONOURS 647 WORKERS FOR PRODUCTIVE AND BRILLIANT PERFORMANCE
The Executive Director Administration of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi, fniob, has described the company’s human capital as the reliable bedrock, which has continued to define the company’s strong performance in the industry and market. Bayi made the remark at the 2022 Long Service Awards Ceremony of the Company, which held in Abuja FCT. Bayi said, ‘‘…as worthy staff of our great company, your continuing hard work, loyalty, commitment, resilience, experience and cooperation, as well as the meticulous planning and continuous investments in both human capital and technology by the Company have all helped greatly in the laudable stability we have achieved as a corporate entity.”
According to Bayi, the award ceremony is an annual event to recognize Julius Berger’s long-serving staff and to show appreciation to the workers for their contribution towards the continued success and progress of the Company. “It is our annual tradition in Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to appreciate and reward well-deserving staff.” He said 647 serving staff were honoured at the 2022 event. Bayi, on behalf of the executive management, acknowledged the workers as the bedrock of the Company. “Your loyal commitment, excellent professionalism, tenacity and can-do spirit have kept the Company on a steady path of progress through the years. This long service award event is in recognition of your good work, and also the reciprocal commitment of the Company towards our highly valued workforce.”,” said Bayi.
The Executive Director also said that in the outgoing year, Julius Berger put into place structures for optimization of productivity across the entire spectrum of the Company’s operations in order to keep the Company competitive and further support sustainable performance in the Company’s business for the years to come.
Bayi celebrated the leadership of the company, saying, “…under the strategic guidance of our diverse and extensively experienced Board of Directors, and the able operational dynamism of the Executive Management, regional teams and different heads of departments, Julius Berger has remained dynamic, successful and steadily primed for even greater success in the near future.” Bayi further added that, “the collegiate experience of the members of the Board of Directors and Executive Management, coupled with their collective determination to continue taking this company to the next level, has made Julius Berger the enviable and desirable destination for every serious investor in the market, today. To keep afloat as a going business concern, the Board of Directors and Executive Management, he said, developed three strategic pillars for Julius Berger’s operations, namely, the company’s core construction business, its well-integrated subsidiaries; and its transformative diversification policy. The operation of the above three pillars, Bayi said, has resulted in a positive client mix for the company from both the public and private sectors, adding, “good results are emerging.”
To a round of appreciative applause from the teeming workers and guests present at the event, the Director of Administration stated that, “…it is a testimony to the very focused work of the Board and Management that Julius Berger has received several recognition awards, amongst which is the most recent 2022 Pearl award as the Highest Dividend Growth Company in the Nigerian Stock Market.” Bayi called the Pearl award “…a bold and credible evidence of the company’s robust productivity and progressive success.”
Speaking on industrial harmony within Julius Berger’s operations, the director of administration said that due to the constant, mutual consultation between the junior workers’ Union and the senior staff Association, and the Management on all pertinent issues, the company has continued to enjoy industrial peace nationwide. “I make bold to say that, as evidence of the well-nurtured, closely guarded and continuing industrial harmony between Management and our teeming workers, we are again this year rewarding a total number of 647 workers for their unbroken record of productive service and brilliant performance to the company over the years,” Bayi said. The understanding and cooperation between the company’s workforce, the workers’ industrial Union and Association on the one hand, and the Management on the other hand, Bayi highlighted, has remained helpfully peaceful and productive. This, he said, will be mutually sustained for the progressive growth of the company.
With regard to staff development policy and initiatives by the company, Bayi informed the workers that, “…Management attaches high priority to planned enhanced value of our workers…. During the year, thousands of our workers were trained and retrained; cutting across professional courses with relevant professional bodies, Health Safety and Environment, as well as local training for artisans at the strategic Julius Berger Plant and Equipment Academy, which only recently graduated its first set of trainees.” Management, Bayi stated, envisioned the Academy to be “a leader institution in technical training, the company’s funnel for dynamic, highly trained and resourceful technicians to fill the needs of the company and the industry in general.”
The 2022 long service awardees have worked without break of service for periods ranging from 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and, believe it, to 45 years of service. Their categories and numbers are as follows:10 years (195 Awardees);15 years (307 Awardees); 20 years (62 Awardees); 25 years (41 Awardees); 30 years (20 Awardees); 35 years (17 Awardees); 40 years (4 Awardees); and 45 years (1 Awardee)
Bayi identified a synergy between the large number of the 2022 long service awardees, the commensurate huge volume of man-hours they put into their jobs during the year, and the company’s proud HSE legacy. He said, “…with regard to the Company’s Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) achievements, Julius Berger has a proud and in fact unmatched industry record of Lost Time-Frequency Rate of 0.19, which is less than one Lost Time Injury for every five million man-hours worked.” These operational HSE policies, Bayi added, are now imbibed and observed in the way Julius Berger personnel conduct themselves in and out of the workplace.
On the company’s responsibility towards its host communities, Bayi said Julius Berger has also been proactive with its initiatives that rest on four pillars, namely Health, Education, Sports, and Emergency Response Assistance. He added also that the company’s most recent donation of food to flood victims across its operational areas, its continuing donations to hospitals and orphanages, its educational assistance and book donation initiatives to schools, are all targeted at supporting community-based initiatives in order to promote social and economic inclusivity.
Speaking on the future of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Alhaji Bayi drew the attention of the workers to the words of the Managing Director, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter, during the company’s recent Investor Relations Forum, where the MD confidently stated, “Julius Berger, today, is endowed with the largest market share, limited competition of similar scale, quality and financial capacity. We have a strong brand equity, a seasoned management, an experienced and diverse Board of Directors, and a well-defined Diversification Strategy; all projecting for a strongly-rooted and positive business outlook…” The Managing Director, Bayi further highlighted, had emphasized that the company, “is synonymous with the best quality infrastructure in Nigeria, and the company is assigned… a Stable Outlook with a National Scale rating of A.” At this juncture, looking straight at the attentive workers, Bayi then fully aligned with Engr. Dr. Richter and said: “Ladies and gentlemen, on this occasion of the year 2022 Long Service Awards, I say to you, Julius Berger’s business future remains only progressively good and beneficial to both its shareholders and workforce.”
Bayi also thanked the spouses of the long service award recipients saying, “…whether as wives or husbands, let me also congratulate and thank all the spouses of the awardees for their support, encouragement and perseverance through the years. Without your co-operation, these recipients would not have had the zeal to perform their enviable duties over the years for which they are now honoured. We are therefore grateful for all you have done to make this day possible.”
As the company appreciated the long service awardees, Bayi enjoined the workers to let the occasion to serve as a tonic to propel them to greater heights, as the company shall continually recognise and reward deserving staff. The Director of Administration also craved the understanding of the workers to understand and accept the administrative and structural changes being implemented across the company, emphasizing that the ongoing changes are designed for the further development of the company to achieve its identified goals.
Finally, Bayi used the occasion to thank the members of the Press who were present for what he referred to as their very kind and positive cooperation and work with the company since the year began. “As society’s chief opinion moulders, by your deeply rational understanding and objective reportage of our numerous projects and endeavours across the country, you have continued to sustain our critically necessary and hard-earned good image with the Nigerian public. We appreciate your partnership for peaceful progress in our business operations. On behalf of the Board, Management and entire staff of Julius Berger, I say to the media that we remain partners in progress. Thank you very much,” Bayi said.
Alhaji Bayi congratulated the awardees and wished them, their families and their guests a happy yuletide season and safe travels, even as they continued their well-deserved celebration. The Julius Berger Long service award for 2022 held in all of the company’s operational regions as well
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is the country’s leading construction company offering holistic services covering the planning, design, engineering, construction, operation and maintenance of buildings, infrastructure and industry projects in Nigeria.
Since its pioneer project in 1965, Julius Berger has played a pivotal role in the development of Nigeria’s industrial and civil infrastructure. The company specialises in executing complex works requiring the highest level of technical expertise and Nigeria-specific knowhow. The company deploys state-of-the-art methods and precision technologies to ensure that quality and innovation are prioritised for the benefit of clients. Subsidiaries and additional facilities make it possible for the company to realise multifaceted projects at the highest level of performance. This structure allows Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to effectively manage and fulfil construction projects, starting from the initial idea, through to planning, design, engineering, construction, operation and maintenance.
The Group is guided by a value system that defines and differentiates it. Adherence to internationally specified standards and a focus on efficient and value-driven delivery of services further solidifies its competitive edge. With unwavering reliability, unmatched quality, leading governance and a true focus on sustainability, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc and its subsidiaries continue to set a benchmark for success.

2022 LONG SERVICE AWARDS: JULIUS BERGER HONOURS 647 WORKERS FOR PRODUCTIVE AND BRILLIANT PERFORMANCE
JULIUS BERGER LONG SERVICE AWARD PIX 52022 LONG SERVICE AWARDS: JULIUS BERGER HONOURS 647 WORKERS FOR PRODUCTIVE AND BRILLIANT PERFORMANCE
The Executive Director Administration of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi, fniob, has described the company’s human capital as the reliable bedrock, which has continued to define the company’s strong performance in the industry and market. Bayi made the remark at the 2022 Long Service Awards Ceremony of the Company, which held in Abuja FCT. Bayi said, ‘‘…as worthy staff of our great company, your continuing hard work, loyalty, commitment, resilience, experience and cooperation, as well as the meticulous planning and continuous investments in both human capital and technology by the Company have all helped greatly in the laudable stability we have achieved as a corporate entity.”
According to Bayi, the award ceremony is an annual event to recognize Julius Berger’s long-serving staff and to show appreciation to the workers for their contribution towards the continued success and progress of the Company. “It is our annual tradition in Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to appreciate and reward well-deserving staff.” He said 647 serving staff were honoured at the 2022 event. Bayi, on behalf of the executive management, acknowledged the workers as the bedrock of the Company. “Your loyal commitment, excellent professionalism, tenacity and can-do spirit have kept the Company on a steady path of progress through the years. This long service award event is in recognition of your good work, and also the reciprocal commitment of the Company towards our highly valued workforce.”,” said Bayi.
The Executive Director also said that in the outgoing year, Julius Berger put into place structures for optimization of productivity across the entire spectrum of the Company’s operations in order to keep the Company competitive and further support sustainable performance in the Company’s business for the years to come.
Bayi celebrated the leadership of the company, saying, “…under the strategic guidance of our diverse and extensively experienced Board of Directors, and the able operational dynamism of the Executive Management, regional teams and different heads of departments, Julius Berger has remained dynamic, successful and steadily primed for even greater success in the near future.” Bayi further added that, “the collegiate experience of the members of the Board of Directors and Executive Management, coupled with their collective determination to continue taking this company to the next level, has made Julius Berger the enviable and desirable destination for every serious investor in the market, today. To keep afloat as a going business concern, the Board of Directors and Executive Management, he said, developed three strategic pillars for Julius Berger’s operations, namely, the company’s core construction business, its well-integrated subsidiaries; and its transformative diversification policy. The operation of the above three pillars, Bayi said, has resulted in a positive client mix for the company from both the public and private sectors, adding, “good results are emerging.”
To a round of appreciative applause from the teeming workers and guests present at the event, the Director of Administration stated that, “…it is a testimony to the very focused work of the Board and Management that Julius Berger has received several recognition awards, amongst which is the most recent 2022 Pearl award as the Highest Dividend Growth Company in the Nigerian Stock Market.” Bayi called the Pearl award “…a bold and credible evidence of the company’s robust productivity and progressive success.”
Speaking on industrial harmony within Julius Berger’s operations, the director of administration said that due to the constant, mutual consultation between the junior workers’ Union and the senior staff Association, and the Management on all pertinent issues, the company has continued to enjoy industrial peace nationwide. “I make bold to say that, as evidence of the well-nurtured, closely guarded and continuing industrial harmony between Management and our teeming workers, we are again this year rewarding a total number of 647 workers for their unbroken record of productive service and brilliant performance to the company over the years,” Bayi said. The understanding and cooperation between the company’s workforce, the workers’ industrial Union and Association on the one hand, and the Management on the other hand, Bayi highlighted, has remained helpfully peaceful and productive. This, he said, will be mutually sustained for the progressive growth of the company.
With regard to staff development policy and initiatives by the company, Bayi informed the workers that, “…Management attaches high priority to planned enhanced value of our workers…. During the year, thousands of our workers were trained and retrained; cutting across professional courses with relevant professional bodies, Health Safety and Environment, as well as local training for artisans at the strategic Julius Berger Plant and Equipment Academy, which only recently graduated its first set of trainees.” Management, Bayi stated, envisioned the Academy to be “a leader institution in technical training, the company’s funnel for dynamic, highly trained and resourceful technicians to fill the needs of the company and the industry in general.”
The 2022 long service awardees have worked without break of service for periods ranging from 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and, believe it, to 45 years of service. Their categories and numbers are as follows:10 years (195 Awardees);15 years (307 Awardees); 20 years (62 Awardees); 25 years (41 Awardees); 30 years (20 Awardees); 35 years (17 Awardees); 40 years (4 Awardees); and 45 years (1 Awardee)
Bayi identified a synergy between the large number of the 2022 long service awardees, the commensurate huge volume of man-hours they put into their jobs during the year, and the company’s proud HSE legacy. He said, “…with regard to the Company’s Health, Safety and Environmental (HSE) achievements, Julius Berger has a proud and in fact unmatched industry record of Lost Time-Frequency Rate of 0.19, which is less than one Lost Time Injury for every five million man-hours worked.” These operational HSE policies, Bayi added, are now imbibed and observed in the way Julius Berger personnel conduct themselves in and out of the workplace.
On the company’s responsibility towards its host communities, Bayi said Julius Berger has also been proactive with its initiatives that rest on four pillars, namely Health, Education, Sports, and Emergency Response Assistance. He added also that the company’s most recent donation of food to flood victims across its operational areas, its continuing donations to hospitals and orphanages, its educational assistance and book donation initiatives to schools, are all targeted at supporting community-based initiatives in order to promote social and economic inclusivity.
Speaking on the future of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Alhaji Bayi drew the attention of the workers to the words of the Managing Director, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter, during the company’s recent Investor Relations Forum, where the MD confidently stated, “Julius Berger, today, is endowed with the largest market share, limited competition of similar scale, quality and financial capacity. We have a strong brand equity, a seasoned management, an experienced and diverse Board of Directors, and a well-defined Diversification Strategy; all projecting for a strongly-rooted and positive business outlook…” The Managing Director, Bayi further highlighted, had emphasized that the company, “is synonymous with the best quality infrastructure in Nigeria, and the company is assigned… a Stable Outlook with a National Scale rating of A.” At this juncture, looking straight at the attentive workers, Bayi then fully aligned with Engr. Dr. Richter and said: “Ladies and gentlemen, on this occasion of the year 2022 Long Service Awards, I say to you, Julius Berger’s business future remains only progressively good and beneficial to both its shareholders and workforce.”
Bayi also thanked the spouses of the long service award recipients saying, “…whether as wives or husbands, let me also congratulate and thank all the spouses of the awardees for their support, encouragement and perseverance through the years. Without your co-operation, these recipients would not have had the zeal to perform their enviable duties over the years for which they are now honoured. We are therefore grateful for all you have done to make this day possible.”
As the company appreciated the long service awardees, Bayi enjoined the workers to let the occasion to serve as a tonic to propel them to greater heights, as the company shall continually recognise and reward deserving staff. The Director of Administration also craved the understanding of the workers to understand and accept the administrative and structural changes being implemented across the company, emphasizing that the ongoing changes are designed for the further development of the company to achieve its identified goals.
Finally, Bayi used the occasion to thank the members of the Press who were present for what he referred to as their very kind and positive cooperation and work with the company since the year began. “As society’s chief opinion moulders, by your deeply rational understanding and objective reportage of our numerous projects and endeavours across the country, you have continued to sustain our critically necessary and hard-earned good image with the Nigerian public. We appreciate your partnership for peaceful progress in our business operations. On behalf of the Board, Management and entire staff of Julius Berger, I say to the media that we remain partners in progress. Thank you very much,” Bayi said.
Alhaji Bayi congratulated the awardees and wished them, their families and their guests a happy yuletide season and safe travels, even as they continued their well-deserved celebration. The Julius Berger Long service award for 2022 held in all of the company’s operational regions as well
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is the country’s leading construction company offering holistic services covering the planning, design, engineering, construction, operation and maintenance of buildings, infrastructure and industry projects in Nigeria.
Since its pioneer project in 1965, Julius Berger has played a pivotal role in the development of Nigeria’s industrial and civil infrastructure. The company specialises in executing complex works requiring the highest level of technical expertise and Nigeria-specific knowhow. The company deploys state-of-the-art methods and precision technologies to ensure that quality and innovation are prioritised for the benefit of clients. Subsidiaries and additional facilities make it possible for the company to realise multifaceted projects at the highest level of performance. This structure allows Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to effectively manage and fulfil construction projects, starting from the initial idea, through to planning, design, engineering, construction, operation and maintenance.
The Group is guided by a value system that defines and differentiates it. Adherence to internationally specified standards and a focus on efficient and value-driven delivery of services further solidifies its competitive edge. With unwavering reliability, unmatched quality, leading governance and a true focus on sustainability, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc and its subsidiaries continue to set a benchmark for success.

SERAP gives Okowa, Wike, others 7 days to disclose spending of N625bn refunds
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the nine oil producing states in Nigeria to “provide and widely publish details of spending of the oil derivation refunds of N625bn recently paid to them by the Federal Government, including details and locations of projects executed with the money.”
The Federal Government recently paid N625.43 billion oil derivation refunds to the governors of Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Rivers, Ondo, Imo and Cross River states. The payments covered 13 per cent oil derivation, subsidy and SURE-P refunds. The refunds date from 1999 to 2021.
In the open letter dated 10 December 2022 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “It is in the public interest to publish the details of spending of the refunds. Nigerians have the right to know how their states are spending the refunds. It is part of their legally enforceable human rights”
SERAP said, “Disclosing the information would enable Nigerians to scrutinise the spending of the refunds. Publishing the details of the oil derivation refunds would also promote transparency and accountability in the spending of public funds.”
The letter, read in part: “Widely publishing details of the spending of the oil derivation refunds would ensure that persons with public responsibilities are answerable to the people for the performance of their duties in the management of public funds.”
“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 you and your state to comply with our request in the public interest.”
“The public interest in obtaining the information about expenditures relating to the oil derivation refunds outweighs any privacy or other interests. The oversight afforded by public access to such details would serve as an important check on the activities of your state and help to prevent abuses of the public trust.”
“SERAP also urges you to disclose details of spending of the refunds to local government councils through the state accounts, and to explain the role played by your government in the spending of public funds meant for the councils.”
“The constitutional principle of democracy also provides a foundation for Nigerians’ right to know details of spending of the oil derivation refunds. Citizens’ right to know promotes openness, transparency, and accountability that is in turn crucial for the country’s democratic order.”
“The effective operation of representative democracy depends on the people being able to scrutinise, discuss and contribute to government decision making, including on the spending of the oil derivation refunds.”
“To do this, they need information to enable them to participate more effectively in the management of public funds by their state governments.”
“The Freedom of Information Act, Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights guarantee to everyone the right to information, including about how the oil derivation refunds are spent.
“By the combined reading of the provisions of the Constitution of Nigeria, the Freedom of Information Act 2011, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, applicable throughout Nigeria, there are transparency obligations imposed on your state to publish details of spending of the oil derivation refunds.”
“The Nigerian Constitution, Freedom of Information Act, and the country’s anti-corruption and human rights obligations rest on the principle that citizens should have access to information regarding their government’s activities.”
“Your state cannot hide under the excuse that the Freedom of Information Act is not applicable to your state to refuse to provide the details being sought, as your state also has clear legal obligations to provide the information as prescribed by the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Ratification and. Enforcement) Act.”
“SERAP urges you to invite the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to jointly track and monitor the spending of the oil derivation refunds by your state.”
“SERAP also urges you to provide details of the transparency and accountability mechanisms that have been put in place to ensure that the derivation refunds are not mismanaged, diverted or re-stolen.”
“According to our information, under the 13 per cent derivation fund, Abia State received N4.8 billion; Akwa-Ibom received N128 billion; and Bayelsa got N92.2 billion. Cross River got a refund of N1.3 billion; Delta State received N110 billion; Edo State received N11.3billion; Imo State, N5.5 billion, Ondo State, N19.4 billion; and Rivers State received 103.6 billion.”
“On the 13 per cent derivation fund on deductions made by NNPC, Abia State received N1.1 billion; Akwa-Ibom, N15 billion; Bayelsa, N11.6 billion; Cross River, N432 million; Delta State, N14.8 billion; Edo State, N2.2 billion; and Imo State, N2.9, billion. Ondo State, got N3.7 billion while N12.8 billion was paid to Rivers State.”
“The nine states also received N4.7 billion each, totalling N42.34 billion as refunds on withdrawals for subsidy and SURE-P from 2009 to 2015. The Federation Account also paid N3.52billion each as refund to local government councils on withdrawals for subsidy and SURE-P from 2009 to 2015.”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
11/12/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
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PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS APETU OF IPETUMODU AT 60
PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS APETU OF IPETUMODU AT 60
President Muhammadu Buhari rejoices with Oba (Prof) Joseph Olugbenga Oloyede, Latimogun 1, the Apetu of Ipetumodu, in Ife North Local Government Area of Osun State, as he turns 60 years old.
The President felicitates with the townsfolk, Olori Oloyede, and chieftains of the traditional institution, urging them to sustain their support for the monarch, which they have shown since he ascended the throne three years ago.
He urges the Vice Chairman of Osun State Council of Obas to deploy his skills as a Specialist in Accounting and Information Systems to develop his domain, and also utilize his vast international experience as a lecturer in University of Phoenix, Arizona, USA, Indiana Wesleyan University, and Northcentral University, San Diego, California, for the benefit of Ipetumodu town.
President Buhari wishes the Apetu a long and successful reign, a period which will be a milestone in his realm.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
December 9, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES EX-FEDERAL PERM SEC, GEORGINA ARISA AT 60
President Muhammadu Buhari rejoices with former Permanent Secretary, Georgina Ehuriah-Arisa, on the occasion of her 60th birthday.
The President joins family and friends in celebrating the accomplished civil servant, who kept an enviable record in the civil service, rising through the ranks to the peak of her career as Permanent secretary, Ministry of Interior, where she retired in October, 2020.
The President commends the Uzoakoli born-writer for documenting her unique set of experiences from childhood to adulthood, as well as expertise in the civil service, into literature.
President Buhari trusts that the reflections on the life’s journey of the amazon will continue to inspire more womenfolk to play prominent roles in the public service.
President Buhari wishes the former Permanent Secretary all the best in the future, and more years of health and impactful living.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
December 9, 2022
PRESS RELEASE
INFRASTRUCTURE : RECOMMENDATIONS FOR GETTING NIGERIA OUT OF POVERTY ALREADY BEING ADDRESSED, SAYS FASHOLA
- As Minister presides over 2022 EMBER Month Programme’s Press Briefing in Abuja
- Confirms opening of the 2ndNiger Bridge for use during yuletide period
- Also barrier and diversions to be removed from Abuja-Kano, Lagos-Ibadan Roads to ease traffic during the festival period
- Appeals for patience and strict observance of the national speed limit of 100 Km per hour by road users
- FRSC, NARTO, PTD, Contractors, other stakeholders pledge cooperation to enable free flow of traffic, guard against avoidable accident
Pointing the way forward in the light of the recent National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) recommendations for getting Nigeria out of poverty, the Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN, Thursday declared that such recommendations were already being addressed by the Muhammadu Buhari administration with its massive investment in infrastructure renewal and expansion.
The NBS in the report released in November on poverty index had recommended investments in Health, Education and Infrastructure among others as viable means to take the people out of poverty.
But while presiding over the 2022 Ember Month Programme’s Press Briefing of the Ministry, Fashola, who noted that many people had been quoting the Report in terms of the poverty rate, explained to the audience of transport stakeholders who gathered at the Conference Room of the Ministry, “That (Infrastructure) was already happening before the recommendation came. President Buhari had started investing in infrastructure. That is why you and I are here”.
Explaining that poverty has different dimensions including, monetary and multidimensional poverty, the Minister pointed out that the importance of infrastructure lay in the fact that it not only addresses monetary poverty but also multidimensional poverty which, according to him, includes absence of access, choice and efficiency.
“And so for me, why is infrastructure so important? It is addressing poverty in the monetary and multidimensional modes because it provides jobs during construction and makes life better after construction. And as we have seen, as construction is going on journey time is getting better year-on-year”, he said.
Stating that the Buhari administration “is on the right track” as far as addressing the poverty issues are concerned, the Minister, who noted that results would manifest in due course, added that people who express anxiety over the seeming delay in the results of the investments should commend the administration for investing the nation’s resources for the benefit of the people.
He recalled that there was a time before the present administration when funds were being taken out of the country and also from an agency of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to fund elections in the country, adding, “If they took away funds meant for national development, that was one of the causes of poverty.”
“NNPC is now investing N621 billion in road construction but that was the money some people used to fund electioneering campaigns and provide cars for friends in the past. Buhari has put back the money where it belongs. These are things that are heading in the right direction”, Fashola said.
The Minister declared, “When there is a problem it takes time to design a solution and when you apply the solution it takes time to get the final results. But ours is past the design stage because we are already seeing the results”, adding that if people who were saying it took them days to travel to a destination are now saying it takes them a few hours to make the same destination, “it means we are heading in the right direction”.
Noting the various innovative ways the administration has introduced to fund the investments in infrastructure, the Minister explained that when crude oil prices crashed at the onset and revenues fell, this government found other funding sources. “So, we now talk of the SUKUK; we are now talking about the Road Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme, we are now talking about the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund”, he said.
Fashola, who recalled that the President went abroad, early in the life of the administration, to request for the repatriation of those stolen funds from the countries in which they were being kept to enable him fund critical infrastructure like the Second Niger Bridge, the Abuja-Kano Road and the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway among others adding that the execution of the road transport infrastructure projects are now going on.
The Minister declared, “When the President committed in his June 12, 2019 remark that he was going to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty, perhaps, not many people thought it was possible. But that process has started.
“All of these construction companies would ordinarily be out of work if the infrastructure programme is not being implemented; there would be no work for the people. And then the people who depend on construction for their businesses; those who own quarries, those who own construction equipment, trucks, tractors, bitumen, cement, without construction they will be out of job”.
The Minister, while reiterating his challenge to the opposition for a debate on the role of infrastructure development in achieving economic growth and poverty eradication, noted the opposition’s penchant for celebrating the negative figures often thrown up by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and similar bodies without being able to connect investments in infrastructure as the long term solution due to its numerous benefits such as creation of direct and indirect jobs as well as businesses which lead to the creation of a vibrant economy and legitimate distribution of wealth through the value chain.
On the opening of the Second Niger Bridge, Fashola explained that the Bridge would be opened to traffic from December 15, 2022 to January 15, 2023, pointing out, however, that the access would only be for traffic going from the West to the East of the country adding that the flow would be reversed on January 15, 2023 to benefit traffic from the East to the West of the country.
Emphasizing that work on the access road to the Bridge was not yet finished, the Minister who said the reason for the temporary opening was to ease pressure on the first bridge which was usually congested as a result of the huge traffic on it during the yuletide period added that the access roads linking the surrounding towns to the bridge are yet to be finished.
“I believe it is good news so I can confirm it. As I have told you we have completed work on the Bridge. So, as it is now you can walk from one end of the bridge to the other; you can drive from one end to the other. But the connecting roads that link the bridge are what we are working on; that has not finished”, he said.
The Minister attributed the delay in completion of the entire work on the access routes to the bridge to the flooding occasioned by the predicted heavy rains and the fact that contractors could not work on Mondays in the South East leading to the loss of 52 days in a year. Fashola, however, said that the flood that occurred in the area during the season was also a blessing explaining that the original level for the design of the access road had to be changed.
“We had to raise the height of that road. So that flood has made the design to be reviewed and that is good for us. Happily and thankfully, it did not affect the bridge in any way…”, he said.
Buttressing the positive impact of infrastructure, the Minister asked, “Why do we need the Second Niger Bridge; is it not because we have outgrown the first bridge? Is it not because people spend days there just to go for Christmas?” He added, “That is part of poverty. That is the multidimensional poverty which this President said “I will relieve you of it and provide you a choice”.
“You don’t have to sleep overnight on the bridge because you want to go home for Christmas. That is part of what we are talking about. And he has also approved that since the bridge is finished, we should create a temporary access so that in the journey this Christmas you can begin to experience what it will look like when the bridge is finally finished and we open it”, the Minister said.
Fashola assured that the Ministry’s Director of Bridges would work in collaboration with the contractors and the FRSC to work out and publicize more on the arrangement adding, “We still have time of about a week and we will be working round the clock to make sure this plan works”.
The Minister said the impact of the Second Niger Bridge arrangement would also be felt on the Abuja-Kano Road and the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway where, according to him, the contractors handling the projects have been asked to remove the barriers and diversions restricting traffic flow for the period of the festivities.
“Let me explain the reason why we divert; we cannot build a 100 km road at once. So we close sections of five, six to 10 kilometres on one side and divert traffic to the other side so that we can complete it. Once we open that road, that section is completed and we open it to traffic”, the Minister explained, adding that the Director in charge of Construction and Rehabilitation had sent the message to all his Controllers and all the contractors to pass the message to their staff.
Noting that the directive was, “Don’t open up for construction of any new sections anymore,” the Minister said, “that is what we have done; by the 15th of December, remove the barriers, provide signage, reflective signs and flood lights to guide people through so that it is a free passage”.
According to him, on Abuja-Kano, from Kaduna to Zaria there will be no diversions at all. And from Zaria to Kano, which is over 130 km, there will be only one diversion. And from Abuja to Kaduna, which is about 165 km there are going to be four diversions. So, from Abuja to Kano, which is 365 km, there are going to be only five diversions.
Explaining that the five diversions are necessary for operational purposes Fashola added, “I think this is significant and the contractors are working to provide valid access. There are places where we are just going to patch so that you can drive because we are coming back to remove it for full construction which is the main contract”.
“So when you see such things don’t go back to say it has failed, it has not failed, we have not built it, we have just provided relief. When you get to the built section where we have finished, you will see the quality of work we have done there, lane marking and everything and you will know this is the constructed part”, the Minister further explained.
On the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, he said the instruction to the contractors was no diversions or obstructions on the Lagos-Shagamu end from the 15th of December adding that on the Ibadan end there would also be no diversion.
Appealing to the commuting public for patience, Fashola said, “So what I will then say is that you will expect efficient, reduced travel time if we use the road properly. So sometimes you have heard there will be religious events, cross over nights, sometimes traffic might slow down; FRSC is there to move it”.
“Please be patient; don’t be in a hurry and face oncoming traffic because it will just build up the whole place and that is what will cause gridlock and not our work but impatience as it is”, he said adding that he will interact with the FRSC during the period and give the necessary support to ensure smooth traffic flow on the road.
Reiterating the importance of patience among commuters, the Minister added, “Where there is slowdown, bear with us. We don’t intend it but these things can happen with the best of plans. The reason why we are here is that we have come here to plan for the worst and we are now hoping for the best. And the best can only come from the way we use the road”.
To truck drivers, the Minister appealed, “Try and keep your trucks in good condition. Don’t overspeed, if you are tired, take a break and sleep because this is what causes accidents and obstructions. Mostly I want to appeal that the maximum speed on federal roads is 100km/hour not 101 km. So I’d rather you drive below 100km/hour because we want you to arrive safely”.
Appealing to the FRSC for more stringent monitoring of the traffic, Fashola who reiterated that no driver without a valid driver’s licence should be allowed on Nigerian roads, added, “We are having too many road crashes and we are losing too many lives. In the month of September the data that I got was better than August but it is still not tolerable. We lost over 400 people on the roads. We have to bring that number down”.
“I am glad that FRSC is here. One of my appeals to FRSC is to do random checks, ask people for their driver’s licenses, if they don’t have arrest and prosecute them. Only certified people will drive on our roads. The President has approved patrol vehicles for you, use it to control traffic.”
Julius Berger Commiserates and rallies to the aid of flood victims across its operational areas….as Company Donates Food to Flood Victims
- State governments laud company for food donations
In continuation of its determination to touch the lives of communities and with its strong commitment to its Corporate Social Responsibility in Nigeria, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has again donated food items to flood victims at its different operational regions, namely Abuja-Kano Road, Bayelsa and Port Harcourt.
Julius Berger donated bags of rice to help ameliorate the effect of the devastating flood incident on the lives of the affected people.
At Bayelsa, Julius Berger’s Team lead to donate the rice in Yenagoa, Regional Project Coordinator, Chief Sam Ngbor said, “the management of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc wishes to commiserate with the government and good people of Bayelsa State over the flood incident that has enormously disrupted lives and economic activities in some parts of the state. It is without doubt this incident has resulted in untold hardship and unbearable conditions in recent times.” Continuing, Chief Ngbor said, “…as part of our efforts to support the government and good people of Bayelsa state in this trying time, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc hereby donates one hundred bags of rice to the flood victims to help ameliorate the effect of the unfortunate natural disaster.” Julius Berger, said Chief Ngbor, donated the bags of parboiled rice to support the efforts by the state government on reassuring flood victims in the state of better life ahead. He prayed for God’s continued intervention in permanently comforting the victims of the floods.
Speaking after receiving the donation, Bayelsa state Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Iselema Gbaranbiri thanked Julius Berger “for (Julius Berger’s) efforts in dealing with aftermath of the ravaging floods which was unprecedented and affecting Ijaw land deep into our communities.” With the Commissioner to receive the food donation in Yenagoa was a member of the Bayelsa State Flood Management Committee, Mr. Mac-Ake Prince, and the Commissioner’s Personal Assistant, Mr. Princewill Azaru.
In Port Harcourt the Rivers State Capital, the exercise was similar with the presentation of the donated items by Chief Sam Ngbor.
Receiving the donated items on behalf of Rivers State government in Port Harcourt, a senior official of the State’s Flood Management Task Force, Mr. Dabrabaye Briggs thanked Julius Berger “for (the company’s) kind gesture and I pray that God rewards you always.”
At the Abuja-Kano road project corridor, the team lead of Julius Berger CSR Team, Engr. Yusuf Ibrahim explained that Julius Berger’s tradition is to continually reach out to its host communities through multi-pronged emergency and palliative interventions or its planned long-term community empowerment and development schemes. He said: “We remain committed partners to the Nigerian development project. We would continue to do more to ensure that we give back to society through the platform of our CSR.” He said, “…this donation is part of the company’s deliberate way of making positive impact in the lives of not just homes but its hosts communities.”
The Village Head of Birnin Yaro Community, Kaduna State, Alhaji Abubakar Usman Rajab, received the food items with excitement saying, “…we are very excited for the compassionate steps taken by Julius Berger. These donations will put smiles on people’s faces and bring happiness to homes. The flood came destroying farmlands and leaving homes hungry. We want to sincerely thank the company for its very healthy sense of Corporate Social Responsibility by which it gives back to benefit its host communities. This is indeed an outstanding contribution. We now have food items to help families these festive periods. We thank the Management of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. On behalf of my people, we say Thank You”.
At the Bebeji L.G.A, Kano State, Julius Berger’s CSR efforts were also commended and gratefully acknowledged by the village Head and community. The District Head of Bebeji, Alhaji Tijjani Abdullahi Kuki, who was present at the event said, “I want to thank the construction leader, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for the kind gestures and contributions made to our community”. He recalled that “Julius Berger also last year, came to the community’s hospital and donated large number of beds for the use of the hospital, during the covid-19 lockdown. Julius Berger again, he said, donated palliatives to aid families and now another donation made to aid families affected by the flood. The company has given a lot of assistance to our community”. He expressed gratitude to Julius Berger saying, “…we will continue to support the company as we have always done. On behalf of the people, we extend our gratitude to the management of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for these acts of kindness. ”
The Julius Berger delegation to the AKR food donation to flood victims included Engr. Yusuf Ibrahim, Michael Ashofor and Olivia Uzoma, amongst others.
The food donation to flood victims is a continuing implementation of the company’s ‘Food for our Communities’ campaign as well as its ‘Emergency response’ initiative, both of which are key pillars of Julius Berger’s operational CSR strategy.

SANWO-OLU, ANGLICAN BISHOPS, PRIESTS BID ARCHBISHOP OLUMAKAIYE FAREWELL
PRESS RELEASE
- His death a great loss to Anglican Communion, says Lagos Governor
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ondo State Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; the Metropolitan and Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), The Most Rev. Dr. Henry Ndukuba, hundreds of bishops and priests, on Thursday, attended the funeral service of His Grace, The Most. Rev Dr. Humphrey Olumakaiye, the late Bishop of Diocese of Lagos and Ecclesiastical Province of Lagos, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion).
The funeral service, which was a Holy Communion Service, held at St Paul’s Anglican Church, Idanre, Ondo State, was presided over by Ndukuba and assisted by the Archbishop of Ondo Province and Diocesan Bishop of Akure, His Grace, The Most Rev. Dr. Simeon Oluwole Borokini.
The service was attended by Anglican and other denomination bishops, priests, religious leaders, traditional rulers, Diocesan officials, family and friends of the deceased home and abroad, people of Idanre community and Ondo State.
Speaking at the event, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the demise of Archbishop Olumakaiye as a great loss not only to the people of Idanre community and Lagos State but the Anglican Communion in Nigeria.
He said: “The Most Rev. Dr. Humphrey Bamisebi Olumakaiye was our brother, friend and bishop; a man that truly loves God, a man that served God with everything that he had, a man that was indeed a great worshipper and an evangelist of our time.
“The loss is not for Idanre town, the loss is not for Lagos State, the loss is for the entire Anglican Communion in Nigeria. We cannot begin to ask or question God almighty who knows best and given the fact that he was a child of God. At the right time, God Almighty called him to join Him.
“As the people of God, we want to thank the almighty for his life, for who he was, for what he believed in and for the impact he made in the very short but impactful time on earth. We are happy that indeed he is a man that has touched many lives, a man that created in a very short while a big shoe that we are hoping that people will be able to fit in.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was at the cemetery when the remains of Archbishop Olumakaiye were lowered into the grave, urged the deceased widow, Prof. Motunrayo and her son, Richard to take the death of the late Bishop of Diocese of Lagos in good faith.
“I want to encourage my sister, Prof. Motunrayo, his son, Richard and the entire family that indeed we know that you are the people that have the greatest impact and I know that God will comfort you. God will be your husband, God will be your father. God will grant you the strength, the ability to be able to move forward,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Rt. Revd (Prof.) Dapo Asaju, appreciated Governor Sanwo-Olu for his support to the ministerial assignment of the late Archbishop Olumakaiye as the Diocesan of Diocese of Lagos.
He commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for providing approval for a land for the Centenary City of the Diocese of Lagos and supporting the medical bill of the late Bishop before his demise, as well as providing alternative accommodation for the deceased wife after the Bishop’s death.
Bishop Asaju also appreciated the support of the Lagos State First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu and others to the Olumakaiye family, saying they are grateful for all they have done.
He prayed for a good replacement of Archbishop Olumakaiye, who he described as a committed child of God and the first archbishop from Idanre town.
Olumakaiye, the Lord Bishop and Missioner, Diocese of Lagos, died on Sunday, October 31 after a brief illness at 53. He was the first Bishop of Osun North East in 2009 before being transferred to the Diocese of Lagos in 2018.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
08 DECEMBER 2022
2023: Atiku, Okowa will resolve Nigeria’s challenges – Uduaghan
Former Delta Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan has urged the people of the state to vote for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential ticket of Atiku Abubakar and Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, saying the duo will rescue, reset and rebuild Nigeria from its current travails.
Addressing a mammoth crowd of party faithful at Owhelogbo, Isoko North Local Government Area of the state, Uduaghan said that for the first time in history, a Deltan would be Vice President of the country if the people vote for the party’s ticket.
The former governor called on the people to vote for all other candidates of the party from Sheriff Oborevwori for Governor, Michael Diden for Senate, Jonathan Ukodhiko for House of Representatives and Bernard Odior for House of Assembly.
“This is the first time we are having a Vice presidential candidate from our state, so I urge you all to vote Atiku-Okowa ticket so that our dear Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa will become the first Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from Delta State.
“Let’s vote for all our PDP candidates because they are proven men and women of integrity and they have the capacity to resolve all our nation’s challenges.
“My administration did a lot for Owhelogbo and other Isoko communities and l know the present Okowa administration is also doing a lot here, so if you vote PDP again you will get more,” the former governor assured.
On his part, State Chairman of the party, Olorogun Kingsley Esiso said the people have every reason to vote out the APC led Federal Government because of the growing poverty, insecurity and economic downturn of the country.
Esiso said the people were tired of rising hunger and starvation and urged them to come out enmasse on election day to vote for all candidates of the party.
The campaign train which also visited Otor-Igho, Otor-Owhe, Emevor, Oghara-Iyede and Otor-Iyede had in attendance Delta South Chairman of the party, Chief Julius Takeme; Member Representing Warri Federal Constituency, Chief Thomas Ereyitomi.
Others are Commissioner for Energy, Chief Fred Obe; MD/CEO DESOPADEC, Bashorun Askia Ogieh, Commissioner DESOPADEC Dr Paul Oweh, Chairman Isoko North Local Government Council, Hon. Christian Iteire; Chairman Isoko North PDP Prince Godwin Ogorugba, Director-General isoko North PDP Campaign Council, Dr Emmanuel Okoro, among others.
PRESS RELEASE
AJAH KILLING: SANWO-OLU COMMISERATES WITH GAFARU BURAIMOH’S FAMILY
The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has sympathised with the family, friends and associates of the late Gafaru Buraimoh, who died on Tuesday after a stray bullet allegedly fired by a police officer hit him during an incident around Ajah axis.
The Governor expressed sadness over the death of the late Buraimoh, pledging that the State Government would work with the police in their investigation to unravel the remote and immediate cause of the shooting that led to the untimely death of an innocent citizen, with a view to ensuring that justice is served.
He said: “no one deserves to die in that manner. Buraimoh was one of our million citizens with hope for a better life. His death is a sad episode for me personally and the State as whole because injury to one is injury to all.
“I am aware that the Lagos State police command has immediately arrested, disarmed and detained the police officer involved in the shooting incident and has also begun a full scale investigation in the matter.
“I therefore urge the residents to remain calm and not take the law into their hands on the matter, knowing fully we, as the Government would not spare anything to ensure that justice is served.”
The Governor added that his office is earnestly awaiting the full report of the investigation launched by the police authorities on the unfortunate incident.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
07 DECEMBER 2022
PRESS RELEASE
LAGOS GOVERNOR JOINS SOUTHWEST WOMEN RALLY FOR APC PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE
Wife of the President, Dr. Aisha Buhari, on Wednesday, led a regional campaign to the Southwest to galvanise women support for All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and his running mate, Senator Kashim Shettima.
Mobolaji Johnson Pavilion in Onikan throbbed with political activities, as Lagos hosted the maiden Southwest rally of Tinubu-Shettima Women Presidential Campaign Council (TSWPCT), drawing thousands of women from all the six States in the region.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu joined the women at the rally, after he received the TSWPCT leadership team at the State House in Marina in a courtesy visit.
Mrs. Buhari was represented by the wife of the APC presidential candidate, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu.
In the entourage was Shettima’s wife, Hajiya Nana Shettima, First Lady of Lagos, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State First Lady, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, Borno First Lady, Dr. Falmata Zulum, wife of Speaker, House of Representatives, Mrs. Salamat Gbajabiamila, Lagos Deputy Governor’s wife, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, and APC National Women Leader, Dr. Betta Edu, among others.
Sanwo-Olu said creation of a women’s arm of a presidential campaign council was unprecedented in the history of national politics, saying the initiative would reinforce the foundation of gender balance and inclusive governance entrenched within the APC Government.
The Governor described the Tinubu-Shettima presidential ticket as “a national project”, maintaining that the team was the most competent, given the track records of Tinubu and his running mates in governance.
He said: “This is the first time in the history of our democracy that a presidential candidate will have a women’s campaign council working with the party. It goes to show that the Government of Tinubu will sit on the foundation of gender balance and inclusion. I am delighted to see our women organising and putting themselves forward, without watching from the back seats. Women have been on the frontline with us and you have come out to embrace this ticket. This is an assurance that we are on the right track.
“This campaign is not about the success of our party alone, it is also about our future and about the coming generations. When the Government of Tinubu and Shettima is formed, we will ensure that gender friendliness and equality are reflected on every programme of the administration with the youth and women. I commend Dr. Aisha Buhari, who initiated this idea and who has become the rallying point for women who care for the progress of our country. This movement is an evidence Mrs. Buhari is committed to this cause and she is leading from the front.”
Sanwo-Olu hailed TSWPCT for reaching out to women at the grassroots and market women, whom he said would be the beneficiaries of the Tinubu presidency.
The Governor assured that the next APC Government would be purposeful and result-oriented, stressing that the nationwide rallies would further convince undecided voters to root for APC in the general elections.
Sen. Tinubu, who delivered Mrs. Buhari’s message, urged women to probe what she called “deliberate misinformation” being spread about the APC presidential ticket in the social media, advising them to seek information about the track records of all candidates running for president and take decisions based on their findings.
Tinubu-Shettima ticket, she said, remained the only team possessing sterling credentials of performance and competence. Sen. Tinubu said the Muslim-Muslim ticket of the APC would build a new foundation for unity in the country and would prioritise interests of the youth and women.
She said: “We are in the Southwest with Renewed Hope for our women. APC has given us the best ticket, which seeks to empower and build a better future for our women. Some people call it Muslim-Muslim ticket, but the challenge facing our women today does not identify with any religion. The Tinubu-Shettima ticket is one that will raise the foundation for unity in the country and herald new opportunities for women.
“We have come with the assurance that women can count on us. As First Ladies, Hajiya Shettima and I showed great commitment in empowering women. We are passionate about your wellbeing and personal growth. We work passionately in projects we believe in. We are assuring that challenges facing women and youth unemployment would be on the front burner when Tinubu and Shettima are elected.”
Dr. Sanwo-Olu said the need for consolidation of the achievements recorded under the Buhari administration brought about the establishment of a women campaign committee to improve the chance of APC in forming the next government at the centre.
“At this period of our democratic history, Nigeria needs experienced leaders gifted in intellectual acumen, progressive capacity and political sagacity of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to manage the affairs of the country,” Lagos First Lady said.
Dr. Edu urged women to take the message of Renewed Hope back to their communities and organise door-to-door engagements with undecided voters.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
07 DECEMBER 2022
Again, Integrity Group rejects Atiku, Okowa, vows to support all the party’s candidates, except for the Presidency
Today, I want to thank my creator, the Almighty God and to state unequivocally the very essence of my being a great believer and an advocate of truth, equity, justice and fairness in all my endeavours.
Equally, as a great believer in the age-long golden adage that says “a prophet is not appreciated in His own domain”, I owe this occasion to the honour recently accorded me by the fearless fighter and firm believer in fairness and justice, the Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, who bestowed on me along other distinguished Nigerians, the highest honour of Rivers State.
I say I feel most appreciated for being considered worthy of such an important honour. Thank you, Your Excellency and May God always be your pilot.
I make bold to say that I remain firm in my commitment to the advocacy of the very core principle of the founding fathers of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
This principle is called ‘rotation and zoning’, the very Foundation and Political Spinal Cord that has held our great party together since its formative hours in 1998.
This is what some of us refer to as ‘Turn by Turn Nigeria Limited’, a tradition of inclusiveness, deeply embedded and deep-rooted in the general concept of equity, fairness and justice.
This is boldly written in our party constitution and we are determined to defend this legacy left for us by Dr. Alex Ekwueme, Chief Solomon Lar, Alhaji Adamu Ciroma, Chief Sunday Awoniyi, Chief Bola Ige and other founding fathers of our great party.
My humble self and my co-travelers in the struggle for justice and fairness, the G5 governors, now called the Integrity Group, want to make it abundantly clear, without any equivocation, that we remain committed and loyal members of PDP, despite the present crisis.
In my recent address to the zonal committee of the party, I had reminded them in these words, “Zoning is the very glue that has invariably sustained the Nigerian democracy itself for 23 years. It is the architectural pillar holding the frame of our infant democracy. Embedded in the zoning logic is the truism of fairness, justice and collective accommodation”
Our disagreement is about the unilateral, selfish and subjective action of a few to sow a seed of discord which, if we are not careful, may lead to the disintegration of our great party.
Despite the ongoing inept attitude of the gladiators holding us down, we are ready and will, with all the strength we can muster, God helping us, support all the party’s candidates, except for the Presidency because the top party managers definitively refuse to share the six top positions before the general elections and not after election as being canvassed by these few people.
By insisting that the presidential candidate, national chairman and Director General of the Presidential Campaign Council of PDP should come from a particular section of the country, you are trying to destroy the culture and norms of the party in a nation with diverse ethnic groups and sectarian plurality, where the strong fiber of national union is still much tenuous, where suspicions still flare, where sectarian divide is yet volatile.
I make bold to say the recourse to the principle of zoning is the stop gap that induces a sense of belonging and unity among our people.
It creates a feeling that none will be elbowed out of our common patrimony. It guarantees that someday, power will shift in such a rotational order that every section of our multi-plural society will occupy a seat at the center.
There is no room here for wobbly, indecisive representation. Our position must be clear and not woolly. Our vision must be deliberate, assertive on the path of justice and truth. Personal interest must be discarded on the greater altar of national cohesion. The narrow partisan canvas must be jettisoned for the larger purity of the strengthening of the national union.
The greater summative interest of the Nigerian state is far superior to any recourse to ethnic corridor or sectarian pathway.
Ours is a potentially great nation. The building fundaments of a progressive society are achievable when we are willing to surrender the narrow purview of self-aggrandizement for the selfless embrace of the national good.
Our nation has not reached a stage where the indices of tribes and sectarian liaisons are completely voided from the political bearings. They are still there. Our structures are delicate, fragile, weak, flailing in the wind.
Stability is a graduating process. That very process is first to achieve a sense of inclusiveness. From the vast, sweeping Savannah of Sokoto to the mighty shores of the Atlantic Ocean in Lagos, from the endless undulating landmass of Borno to the mangroves of Delta, from the furthest reaches of the forest of Ekiti to the primordial hills of Enugu – the constituents of the Nigerian Union must be assured that there is a governing fairness in the land, that the scales of Justice swings appropriately, that none is perceived in privileged attributions, that all the more than 600 ethnic groups have an equitable and fair share in the Nigerian Sun. It is when this is established, that we can boast of a solid arrival at nationhood.
Before I conclude, I want to reiterate the importance of the fairness doctrine in all our institutions whether it is party organization, the private sphere, or the public space.
Wherever there is no justice, wherever there is no inkling of equitable principle in the guidance of our institutions, there is an inevitable succumb to chaos, disorderliness, and self-help.
Rules must be obeyed. The pivotal fundament of law and order must be adhered to. We cannot and we must not cut corners to sooth the transient emotions of the moment.
What is just is just. What is right is right. Justice denied in any undertaking is justice destroyed. It is a death knell to the necessary balance that holds any union together.
This is the destructive path that must not and should not be taken.
Finally, I hereby plead, exhort, enjoin, that we should swiftly return to the path of justice, fairness and equitable balance.
Let me crave the indulgence of this eminent gathering to digress to another salient issue of national interest, which is to enjoin the management of our financial system, to take a cursory look at the dire straits our national economy has been plunged into.
In my humble opinion, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) policy on the ongoing currency rebranding will only further destroy the economy of the nation.
To come up with the latest CBN pronouncement on daily cash transaction, with the present ugly state of our everyday life of epileptic power supply, high rate youth unemployment and sundry social challenges can only lead to one thing: fiscal and economic suicide.
All over the country, from Sokoto to Onitsha, to Jankara market here in Lagos, the people will only be more burdened with such policy as our economy is presently cash based in outlook.
The CBN policy is just too sudden. It will rather make the people sink deeper into misery and poverty. I make bold to say that the country cannot cope with what I foresee as an anti-people policy.
80% of businesses are still cash based, so it is only instructive for Mr President to wade into this rudderless monetary policy of the CBN.
Nigeria can not just move away from a cash based economy to a complete cashless regime overnight like the CBN wants to implement. Please note that the internet service is still epileptic and electric power is hardly available. How can we transact financial business in this state of hopelessness.
I appeal to Mr. President to intervene immediately before we fall headlong into calamitous abyss.
A word is enough for the wise
May God bless our Nation and let me wish you all a Merry Christmas and a bountiful New year in advance.
Thank You All
Chief Olabode Ibiyinka George, CON, GSSRS, FNSE, MBA, mni
The Atona Oodua of Yorubaland
.Donates N10m To FOWOSO, Gifts Girl With Highest Score In UME N1million
….gives Kudos to women
Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim, billionaire business mugul and candidate of Al Progressives Congress(APC) Ondo South for 2023 general elections was on Wednesday night honoured by Foundation For Wives Of Ondo State Officials (FOWOSO) for his contribution
Ibrahim, who was the Chairman of the award night, in his remark appreciated the First Lady of the state for bridging the gap between the state government and the women through the Foundation.
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Describing FOWOSO as an incredible institution that is building the lives of women in the state, Ibrahim said the Foundation should be institutionalised.
According to him, “I want to appreciate the First Lady of our dear state, the Ada Owere 1, for her efforts in building women in the state.
“She’s bridging the gap between the state administration and the women through FOWOSO.
“The First Lady fills the social gap between the state administration and the women in the state.
“FOWOSO has become an institution and should be institutionalised.
I hereby call on everyone in our state to support this institution for the success of the visions of the First Lady.”
Moreover, Dr. Ibrahim commended women folks for the yeoman’s job they’re doing at the home front.
He emphasized the importance of women to their husbands, noting that they were created to ensure that husband succeed in life.
“Tonight I want to seize this opportunity to appreciated women for keeping the home front and the children.
“You are all incredible. You take care of the home, you take care of the children.
“There’s no complete man without a woman. Women take care of the men. I commended you for the courage. Outside God, the next person is my wife. And that should be the case for every man.
“Woman should be the angel to guide for the benefit of mankind.”
Making his donation towards FOWOSO project, Ibrahim said: “It’s normal for me to donate to FOWOSO. The first lady is an incredible woman. I donate N10M million to FOWOSO.”
Different categories of award were presented at the event.
Dr. Ibrahim was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation HE4SHE Award in recognition of his support for FOWOSO and Women programmes.
The state governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, was also presented an award.
His deputy, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who represented him at the dinner and award night, received award on his behalf.
Seven young girls also won Rising Star Award in Breast Cancer Advocacy, Arts, Solar Technology, Academics, Ability In Disability.
Catherine Igbalaiye, who won the award for Academics, was selected having scored the highest mark in UME.
Dr. Ibrahim gifted her a sum of N1million to assist her in pursuit of her academics.
Mrs. Bukola Akosile represented the Lagos State First Lady