News From Nigeria
SERAP sues Lawan, Gbajabiamila ‘over failure to probe missing N4.1bn NASS funds’
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against the Senate President, Dr Ahmad Lawan and Speaker of House of Representatives, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila over “their failure to probe, and to refer to appropriate anti-corruption agencies fresh allegations that N4.1bn of public money budgeted for the National Assembly is missing, misappropriated or stolen.”
The suit followed the publication of the annual audited report for 2016 in which the Auditor-General of the Federation raised “concerns about alleged diversion and misappropriation of public funds and sought the recovery of any missing funds.”
In the suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1609/2021 filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, SERAP is seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel Dr Lawan and Mr Gbajabiamila to perform their constitutional oversight functions to promptly probe the allegations that fresh N4.1bn budgeted for the National Assembly may be missing.”
In the suit, SERAP is arguing that “the National Assembly has legal and constitutional duties to prevent and combat corruption, as well as promote transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.”
According to SERAP: “The National Assembly can only effectively perform its anti-corruption role if it can demonstrate exemplary leadership to probe the allegations of corruption and mismanagement involving the legislative body.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “transparency and accountability in the management of public resources and wealth is essential for promoting development, people’s welfare and well-being, and their access to basic public services, as well as good governance and the rule of law.”
SERAP is arguing that, “The failure of the National Assembly to promptly and thoroughly investigate, and to refer to appropriate anti-corruption agencies the allegations documented in the annual audited report for 2016 is a fundamental breach of the oversight and public interest duties imposed on the legislative body.”
According to SERAP, “The National Assembly has no legally justifiable reason to refuse to investigate the allegations documented by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation.”
The suit filed on behalf of SERAP by its lawyers Kolawole Oluwadare and Kehinde Oyewumi, read in part: “Granting this application would serve the interest of justice, reduce corruption and mismanagement, as well as end impunity of perpetrators, and advance the fundamental human rights of Nigerians.”
“This suit seeks to vindicate the rule of law, the public interest, and to promote transparency and accountability. Government agencies and institutions are responsible to a court of justice for the lawfulness of what they do, and of that the court is the only judge.”
SERAP had last year sent a letter to Dr Lawan and Mr Gbajabiamila requesting them to “use their good offices to urgently probe and refer to appropriate anti-corruption agencies allegations that fresh allegations of missing N4.1bn of public money.”
The letter, read in part: “these fresh allegations are not part of the disclosure by the Auditor-General in the audited reports for 2015, 2017 and 2018 that N4.4 billion of National Assembly money is missing, misappropriated or stolen.”
“According to the Auditor-General report for 2016, N4,144,706,602.68 of National Assembly money is missing, diverted or stolen. The National Assembly paid some contractors N417,312,538.79 without any documents. The Auditor-General wants the Clerk to the National Assembly to ‘recover the amount in question from the contractors.’”
“The National Assembly reportedly spent N625,000,000.00 through its Constitution Review Committee between March and June 2016 but without any document. The Auditor-General wants the Clerk to the National Assembly to ‘recover the amount from the Committee.’”
“The National Assembly also reportedly spent N66,713,355.08 as ‘personnel cost’ but ‘the payees in the Cashbook did not correspond with those in the Bank Statement’. The Auditor-General wants ‘the irregular expenditure recovered from the officer who approved the payments.’”
“The National Assembly also reportedly paid N116,162,522.60 to some contractors between April and June, 2016 without any document. The National Assembly deducted N56,985,568.55 from various contract payments in respect of Withholding Tax and Value Added Tax but without any evidence of remittance.”
“The National Assembly also reportedly paid N126,264,320.00 as cash advances to 11 staff members between March and December, 2016 to procure goods and services but failed to remit the money.”
“The Senate reportedly paid N747,286,680.00 as personal advances to staff members between February and December, 2016 for various procurements and services but failed to retire the money. The Senate also deducted N118,625,057.48 as Withholding and Value Added Taxes but failed to show any evidence of remittance to the Federal Inland Revenue Service.”
“The Senate also spent N109,007,179.73 from the Capital Expenditure vote but without any document.”
“The House of Representatives reportedly deducted N821,564,296.48 from staff salaries but failed to remit the money to tax authorities. The House also paid N254,059,513.70 as advances to staff members to procure goods and services between January and December, 2016 but failed to retire the money.”
“The National Institute for Legislative Studies reportedly spent N375,867,000.00 to buy 11 motor vehicles in April 2016. But the Institute also paid the same contractor N36,610,000.00 in September 2016 under the same contract without approval.”
“The Institute also reportedly paid N10,927,768.80 to 7 members of staff who were redeployed from the National Assembly to provide specialized services but without details about the staff paid, and without any justification.”
“The National Assembly Service Commission reportedly approved N109,995,400.00 to train some officers in Dubai, United Arab Emirates but spent N127,629,600.00 as Estacode Allowances to participants, and fees for two consultants engaged for the training. The Commission also spent N9,975,000.00 as course fees for 34 officers but it also paid a consultant N4,987,500.00 for the same course fees.”
“The Legislative Aides Section earned N12,274,587.77 as interests on Bank accounts in a commercial bank between January and December 2016 but failed to remit the money to the Consolidated Revenue Fund.”
No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
9/1/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
Jimoh Ibrahim Dissociates Self From Fake Cryptocurrency Link
Billionaire Business mogul and owner of Fortune University has debunked a fake Facebook account opened by some unscrupulous persons in his name to defraud Nigerians.
In a statement personally signed by Barr. Ibrahim, while dissociating himself from the Facebook page, he said he is equally surprised like many of his associates , followers and fans that such Facebook page exists.
The page advertised a phony link which projected an investment profile with a fake note credited to Jimoh Ibrahim written thus: ” I am sharing this because I ‘ve also received hundreds of emails from people thanking me for sharing this secret. ” The scam link is ‘https://fingering. xyz/Jimoh Ibrahim_23.122021′
Barrister Jimoh Ibrahim whose chains of business cut across oil and gas, hospitality , Insurance and many more, said emphatically that the face book page doesn’t belong to him, stressing that some smart Alecs went to hoist the page on the social media with the hope of using his name and face to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.
The Araba of Ikale land advised the scammers to desist from using his name in their shady social media deals warning that the long arms of the law will catch up with them in no time.
He appealed to the public not be brow beaten by whatever mouth watering investment package on the fake Facebook page as it doesn’t have anything to do with him as a person on his chains of businesses both in Nigeria and overseas.
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH URHOBO KINGDOM OVER PASSING OF CHIEF PATRICK EMURODE SITO IDEH
President Muhammadu Buhari commiserates with family of Hon. (Chief) Patrick Emurode Sito Ideh, the Okpako-Orere of Otughievwen and Ushota of Ughievwen Kingdom, and all sons and daughters of Urhobo Kingdom, over passing of the royal father.
President Buhari sends condolences to Government and people of Delta State, professional and business associates of the departed, urging more trust in God, and appreciation for the long life of the elder statesman and former lawmaker, who served as member of the House of Representatives, 1979-1983.
As father to Urhobo ethnic nationality, the President affirms that the legal icon and businessman worked selflessly for the unity and progress of his domain, leaving landmark testimonies of speaking for the voiceless, supporting the underprivileged and, most significantly, ensuring presence of sons and daughters in national discourse.
President Buhari prays for a peaceful rest for the departed, and God’s comfort for his family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 8, 2022
BLACK SOOT: WIKE TASKS RIVERS CP, OTHERS TO ARREST, PROSECUTE ARTISANAL REFINERS.
Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has charged the Rivers State Commissioner of Police to collaborate with the other Security Agencies, Council Chairmen and Traditional Rulers to fish out all those involved in illegal bunkering and artisanal refining for prosecution.
The governor accused persons engaged in illegal bunkering and artisanal refining for the black soot environmental menace that is endangering the health of residents of the State.
He gave the charge at the Nigeria Police, Rivers State Command dinner and award night that held at the Police Officers Mess, Old Government Residential Area, Port Harcourt on Friday.
The governor, who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Port Harcourt, Chief Emeka Woke, declared that the State government has resolved to tackle those involved in crude oil theft and refining once and for all.
Governor Wike stated that the state government is willing to provide the police and other security agencies all that is required to dislodge and end the activities of artisanal refiners in Rivers State.
According to the governor, “the State is prepared to fight them more than ever before.”
Governor Wike, narrated that since the Commissioner of Police, Friday Eboka assumed duty last year, Rivers State has witnessed peace and improved policing.
“Little wonder the crime index in the state has reduced drastically. We thought we are the only people witnessing it, but with the award you got from the wife of the Inspector General of Police, it is an eloquent testimony that what we are seeing as a State, is also being observed from all the nation.”
The governor said policing in Rivers State has improved remarkably because the management of the Nigeria Police Force at the Force Headquarters and the State Command respectively distanced themselves from politics.
“As a state, we will continue to support the security agencies in the State. Our support for security agencies is not only centered on Police force. We are also extending similar gesture to the Navy, Air force and others.
“For us, we believe the primary function of any responsible government is to protect life and property. So, we have no option than to continue to support in providing logistics and everything that can make the security agencies in the State to function very well.
“Because we believe that if our people are safe and the life here is peaceful, there will be increase in economics activities and the Internally Generated Revenue will also go up.”
Governor Wike commended Mr Eboka, who is the 42nd Commissioner of Police in Rivers State for discharging his duty professionally and not joining the league of some of his predecessors, who were posted to the State to cause turmoil and instability.
The governor announced N1 million reward for each of the recipients of the Rivers State Police Command award and N10 Million to the Command for organising the event.
The Commissioner of Police, Friday Eboka explained that 2021 was a remarkable year for the Command because Rivers State emerged as one of the most peaceful state in Nigeria.
He thanked Almighty God for his grace and Inspector General of Police for choosing Rivers State as the venue for the launching of South-South Operation Restore Peace.
According to him, this came with the deployment of special forces with sophisticated equipment as well as combat helicopter to the state.
He commended Governor Wike for being very phenomenal in the attainment of peace and security in the State.
“Since my assumption of office, the command has received more than 50 patrol vehicles fitted with modern gadgets from the State government. This gesture alone enhanced visibility policing in the State.
“Recall too, when we lost men to miscreants in sometimes April 2021, the governor did not allow us to suffer alone. He wiped the tears of the deceased families with a total sum N220 million, which means each family received the sum of N20million.
“Recall the ENDSARS saga. At the end of that saga, which led to the burning down of police stations and vehicles across the nation, the State governor did not abandon us to work under the trees. But rather, the governor constructed a storey building each for the Area Command, Oyigbo and the Divisional Police in Oyigbo.”
Highlight of the event was the conferment of Governor Wike with an award for fighting crime in the State.
The founder and General Overseer, Omega Power Ministry, Apostle Dr. Chibuzor Gift Chinyere, was honoured for his unrelenting assistance to the State Police Command
The recipients of the Rivers State Police Command 2021 awards are: G.I.A Godstime Nwuju, best traffic officer; Inspector Winfrey Ini Akpan, best controller; CSP Bako Aghashim, best D.P.O; CSP Grace Wonwu, best female DPO; and the best visiting tactical team leader went to CSP Adamu.
Kelvin Ebiri
Special Assistant Media to the Rivers State Governor.
January 8, 2022.
GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
RIWAMA Sole Administrator, Bro. Felix Obuah Meets With All Service Providers Working With The Agency
The Sole administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA), Bro. Felix Obuah has called for an important meeting of all Service Providers working with the agency.
The crucial and mandatory meeting is scheduled to hold as follows:
DATE: Monday, January 10, 2022
TIME: 2pm on the dot
VENUE: Conference Hall, Rivers State Waste Management Agency, Port Harcourt.
The crucial meeting which is part of efforts to improve on the cleanliness of Rivers State, is mandatory for all Service Providers working with the Agency and all Special Assistants, SAs, to the Sole Administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency, RIWAMA.
The Sole Administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency, Bro Felix Obuah therefore enjoined all Service Providers working with the agency and all Special Assistants, SAs, to the Sole Administrator, RIWAMA to ensure they are in attendance, as the agency will not take it kindly with those who fail to attend.
THIS IS SIGNED BY:
Jerry Needam
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Sole Administrator,
Rivers State Waste Management Agency, RIWAMA
Bro. Felix Obuah.
Saturday, January 8, 2022.
SPN CONDEMNS BRUTAL STATE REPRESSION OF MASS PROTEST IN KAZAKHSTAN
WE DEMAND AN END TO ATTACKS ON DEMOCRATIC RIGHTS
Socialist Party of Nigeria (SPN) condemns the brutal repression of the legitimate mass protest of the people who are tired of massive corruption and capitalist misrule by the former government and the current government.
SPN hails the heroic mass protest of the working masses that challenged hike in fuel price on January 1, 2022 by Kassym-Jomart Tokayev-led government and other anti-people policies. Despite the brutalization, shooting and killing of innocent protesters, the working masses have stood their ground.
We demand an immediate end to the ongoing attacks on democratic rights and repression of peoples’ will. We demand the withdrawal of Russian troops from Kazakhstan. The vast majority have spoken and rejected this self-serving government and it is high time the government resigned and allow for a democratic election under the control of the working class.
We call on the working masses to form defence Committees that mobilize across ethnic lines, religions, nationalities as a basis for defending the movement and also uniting the people.
We also appeal to all working class organisations and trade unions internationally including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to give active solidarity to the struggling masses of Kazakhstan.
SIGNED
Abiodun Bamigboye Chinedu Bosah
Acting National Chairperson National Secretary
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EBIRERI HENRY OVIE
January 6, 2022
Press Statement
Just Go! Nigerians Don’t Want a Successor From You – PDP Tells Buhari
…Says Mr. President’s Channels TV Interview Full of Lies
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) asks President Muhammadu Buhari to end his thoughts of a successor as Nigerians will firmly resist any candidate put forward by him and his All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 Presidential election.
The PDP also berated President Buhari for embarrassing his office and making a huge joke of himself by appearing confused and dwelling on false figures and bogus performance claims in his disastrous Channels Television interview on Wednesday, January 5, 2022.
While we understand that lying is the standard gauge of performance of the APC, it is rather unfortunate that the President is also in that frame. It only reinforces the fact that nobody is immune to lying in the APC. Of course, he cannot extricate himself because lying is the official policy of his party, the APC.
In his ludicrous attempt to rationalize his failures in office, President Buhari falsely claimed that under the PDP, from 1999 to 2014, crude oil sold for an average of $100 per barrel but collapsed to $37 per barrel when he and his APC assumed office.
Such false claims flies in the face of hard fact as the records, which the President must have, clearly show that when the PDP took office in May 29, 1999 crude oil sold at $16.27 per barrel and at about $80.42 and $63.28 by November and December 2014 respectively.
Under President Buhari and the APC, oil price has never fallen as low as $16 per barrel as recorded under the PDP but started at $37 to $39.44 per barrel in 2016 and had continued to hover between $60 to $70 per barrel to date.
It is on record that despite the low oil revenue when the PDP took over, it expanded the economy, paid off our foreign debts, revamped our productive sectors, provided conducive investment environment which encouraged massive foreign investments and handed over a $550 billion economy (largest in Africa and 26th globally) to President Buhari and the APC in 2015.
Mr. President had no answers when, in the Channels TV interview, he was confronted with the facts that when he took over, the debt stock was N12 trillion but now N32 trillion and counting; that inflation, which was about 9 percent under the PDP is now over 15 percent; that unemployment rate, which was about 8.9 percent is now 33 percent, that our naira which exchanged at about N197 to a dollar under the PDP is now over N500 and that the petrol price which was N87 in 2015 is now N165 per liter under the APC watch.
President Buhari should have seized the opportunity provided by Channels TV to show remorse, apologize to Nigerians for his monumental failure and national embarrassment that the APC government represents instead of trying to rationalize APC’s failures with falsehood and grandstanding about a successor.
The mindset of Mr. President as exhibited in the Channels TV interview confirms the fears of Nigerians that the APC does not believe in democratic practice and is determined to manipulate the 2023 election by all means.
That explains their desperation to scuttle the Electoral Act Amendment Bill provision for electronic transmission of election results, which will effectively truncate the APC’s plans to rig the 2023 election.
However, President Buhari and the APC must know that Nigerians are fully rallied on the platform of the PDP to face them in 2023 and that the resort to underhand processes and false indices like those reeled out by Mr. President in his Channels TV interview will not avail them.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU CHARGES APC RECONCILIATION COMMITTEE TO UNITE PARTY MEMBERS
…No petition from Lagos, says Adamu
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has charged the Senator Abdullahi Adamu-led All Progressives Congress (APC) National Reconciliation Committee to unite all party members in the country, especially in States where there are differences within the party.
Governor Sanwo-Olu while receiving the Chairman and Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Reconciliation Committee, who paid a courtesy visit on him at the Lagos House Marina, on Thursday, said Lagos is lucky because there is no petition from the State.
The Governor assured that the citizens will enjoy the dividend of democracy, which is a major essence of government, maintaining that with APC, the benefits can be seen in all the nooks and crannies of the country.
He said: “We are happy that the Caretaker and Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee headed by his Excellency Mai Mala Buni has put together this committee and I believe it is in tandem with the fact that as a big family, we would have different ideas, expectations or different intentions as to how things are being run in our various states and I know fully well that there are States where we need to come together and resolve our issues collectively.
“We are lucky in Lagos that there is no petition. It is not that we are better than States that do have but because indeed this is a party to beat and it is a party that everybody wants to be identified with.
“It is normal that people might have different expectations and different ways in which things need to run in their various states and so I believe that the assignment and terms of reference of the committee speak to the real essence of the constitution and the real ethos of party politics.
“Given the calibre of eminent Nigerians and members serving on the Committee, I am certain that the outcomes of these interventions that you have taken up will be very fruitful and the outcome will further strengthen unity in the party and will further deepen democracy in our country.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the chairman and members of the APC National Reconciliation Committee for accepting to serve the party.
Speaking earlier, Senator Abdullahi said his committee was in Lagos to seek advice from Governor Sanwo-Olu and stakeholders in the State and not for any reconciliation because there was no petition from Lagos to the national body.
He commended Governor Sanwo-Olu and APC stakeholders for the peace within the party in the State, advising other states to emulate Lagos.
“We appreciate the reception of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. I am happy and I speak for the members of the committee. There is no petition from Lagos State. We are all family and there is no complaint of anything regarding the relationship between the members and stakeholders.
“This is encouraging and this kind of state of affairs does not just come by accident, it goes to show the extent to which his Excellency (Governor Sanwo-Olu) and his team have been able to manage the party’s affairs in the state, how they have been able to advance the interests of the very complex party membership in Lagos. We commend you and the people, particularly party members,” he said.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
JANUARY 6, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS AMB (PROF) LAWRENCE BARAEBIBAI EKPEBU
President Muhammadu Buhari sends condolences to the families of Orokuro and Efere in Olodani and Kalama compound, respectively in Bayelsa State, over the passing of Amb (Prof) Lawrence Baraebibai Ekpebu, an accomplished diplomat, author and educationist.
The President commiserates with the families, friends and professional associates of the diplomat, whose influence in his community will always be remembered, especially in projecting the values of peace and unity among the people.
President Buhari prays for the repose of the soul of the departed scholar, and God’s comforting arms over the family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 6, 2022
LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT MEETS WITH STAKEHOLDERS ON THE MAGODO SHANGISHA DISPUTE
At a meeting chaired by Mr. Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola-Sanwo-Olu, at the State House Alausa, on the 5th of January 2022 with the Judgment Creditors (Shangisha Landlords’ Association), their lawyers, Commissioner of Police Lagos State Command, Policemen from the F.C.T Command and Police Headquarters, the Executive and Trustees of the Magodo Residents’ Association and senior Government Officials, the enforcement of Judgment of the Supreme Court delivered on the 10th of February 2012 in suit no. SC/112/2002 was deliberated upon and the following resolutions were arrived at:
Gbenga Omotoso
HC, Information & Strategy
5th January, 2022
MALI: PRESIDENT BUHARI RECEIVES BRIEFING FROM FORMER PRESIDENT JONATHAN
A special meeting of ECOWAS holds in Ghana, Sunday, to deliberate on the political situation in Mali.
This was the subject of a parley at State House, Abuja, Thursday between the Head of the ECOWAS Mediation Team, former Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan, and President Muhammadu Buhari.
President Buhari repeated his earlier avowal that whatever Nigeria would do on the Mali situation would be done within the ambit of ECOWAS.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
January 6, 2022
IKOYI COLLAPSED BUILDING: SANWO-OLU TO IMPLEMENT PANEL’S REPORT
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday, set up a four-man committee led by the Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr Tayo Bamgbose-Martins, an engineer, as a first step to the implementation of the report submitted by the Panel, which investigated the collapse of a 21-storey structure on Gerrard Road in Ikoyi.
Other members of the committee are Head of Service, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola; Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN) and his Agriculture counterpart, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, who is an architect.
The Governor constituted the committee after receiving the report of the Panel at Lagos House, Ikeja. It was submitted by the chairman of the panel, Mr. Toyin Ayinde, a town planner. The building collapsed on November 1, 2021.
The Governor said the committee would bring forward a report to be considered by the Lagos State Executive Council.
He commended members of the Toyin Ayinde-led panel for their commitment and quick response to the assignment given to them by the State Government.
Ayinde is the President of the National Institute of Town Planners. Other members of the panel are a structural engineer, Dr. Akintilo Idris; an architect, Yinka Ogundairo; a builder, Mr. Godfrey Godfrey; a real estate lawyer, Mrs. Bunmi Ibrahim and a lawyer, Ekundayo Onajobi, the secretary of the panel.
“Let me on behalf of the people and the government of Lagos State first acknowledge the very difficult task that has been passed on to you and the commitments and the quick response that each and every one of you gave to the assignment. We know that you all have been chosen from different professional backgrounds but you were indeed ready to serve the people for this very important assignment.
“Let me therefore commend and thank you for that exercise. I will be constituting a four-man committee almost immediately that will read through the report and I am giving them the end of next week to get back to the State Executive Council,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said.
Speaking earlier, Ayinde expressed hope that the findings and recommendations of the panel’s report would be implemented by the Government to bring a lasting solution to incidents of building collapse not only in Lagos State but nationally.
Ayinde on behalf of the panel members appreciated the Governor for giving them the opportunity to serve Lagos State Government and the people of the State, noting that the panel spent approximately six weeks on the assignment and submitted the report as well as electronic recordings of all the sections and videos of proceedings in a hard drive to the Lagos State Attorney-General.
The chairman said the panel visited the project site for a general assessment, coordinated the activities of the consultants who conducted tests on the site, received and reviewed documents from relevant MDAs and conducted 35 interviews. It interrogated 91 persons, requested and received 21 memoranda and accessed the home of the late CEO of Fourscore Heights Limited, Mr. Olufemi Osibono, with a view to gathering useful documents.
He said: “The tribunal had the opportunity to access the home of the late CEO of Fourscore Heights Limited in the presence of members of his family, where some documents that were scanned helped in gaining further insights into the case, particularly the processes that led to the construction and eventual collapse.
“The tribunal also hosted the representation of the developer’s company, comprising two legal firms. It is on record that in their first and second appearances, the lawyers expressed the fact that they were external lawyers to the company and had little knowledge about the case in hand.
“Having spent approximately six weeks on this assignment, we now wish to make our submission to the Governor of Lagos State who constituted the tribunal. We need to note however that building collapses is rooted in the collapse of values, morals and ethics, which we need to work on as a nation. We cannot sow the wind and not expect to reap the whirlwind. Therefore, ethics and due diligence need to be restored.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu on Thursday, November 4, 2021, inaugurated the six-member panel of inquiry to investigate the cause of the collapse of the building.
The panel was inaugurated at the headquarters of the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) at Falomo, where members of the panel had their sittings. Governor Sanwo-Olu also signed an executive bill to give legal backing to the panel during its inauguration.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
05 JANUARY 2022
Magodo fiasco, Governor Sanwo-Olu and genuine Leadership
By Gboyega Akosile
I have read a lot reactions and media reports on the engagement between the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the residents/property owners in Magodo Phase II Estate and a certain Chief Superintendent of Police, who was sent from Abuja to lead the supposed execution/enforcement of the Supreme Court Judgment on the embattled plots of land.
First, we must appreciate the leadership style of the present Governor, as a man who listens. A man of peace, down-to-earth and one who takes all shades of opinion before making decisions on any matter. Secondly, Mr. Sanwo-Olu, apart from building structures and keeping his promise across his administration’s THEMES agenda, always prioritises peace and security in the State above many other interests. He recognises that, it is in the atmosphere of peace and security that sustainable development can be achieved. Furthermore, this Governor cares about the welfare of all the residents of Lagos, irrespective of their social status, age or gender. This is why you see him engaging publicly with residents in Ajah over the menace of Okada riders who ride against the traffic. He has also had several other interactions with market men and women in Yaba, Oyingbo, Ikorodu, Badagry and other areas over plans of the Government. This action is only easy for humble and people-oriented leaders, who would not just sit back in their palatial offices to issue instructions. Governor Sanwo-Olu goes out to get the job done, even if it entails meeting with the people in their various areas of residence.
The Magodo issue is a bit knotty as it is legal. But, regardless of the circumstances that led to the current situation, the Governor, under whose watch the seeming crisis happened, must rise up to the occasion to address it frontally. Afterall, you inherit both assets and liabilities when one is elected into an office. This, my principal knows and understands very well and in line with the oath he swore to, that he will protect the lives and property of every citizen, he had to wade into the Magodo land issue before it degenerates into a full-blown crisis.
A few opinion writers had rushed to Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to paint a picture of what appeared like a “weak” Governor. In fact, I saw some laughable comparison of Governor Sanwo-Olu with Nyesom Wike, his River State counterpart. Pray, what would the latter have done under such circumstances? Would he have slapped the CSP for answering his question, however condescending, or ordered his arrest? Which arm of the security would carry out the instruction? Does River State, like Lagos State, have its own Police, DSS, or the Army? The writer that did this comparison needs to be reminded that all security apparatus is controlled by the Federal Government in Abuja and their officers are not answerable to any State Governments. What we have had in Nigeria is collaboration between the State and Federal Government. The structure is weak, lopsided and not in the best interest of the Federal system of Government that we practice in Nigeria. For emphasis, Governor Sanwo-Olu is not weak. He is a democrat, a gentleman, who will follow the due process in every situation and what happened between him and the CSP at Magodo should be a good reason why well-meaning Nigerians need to increase the tempo the call for true federalism, where all the Federating units will have their security arrangements and would not need the Federal Police to carry out a lot of duties in their domains.
Some argued that the Governor should have worked behind the scenes and should not necessarily have visited Magodo. This line of thought is at its best funny. Do you go to sleep when your roof is on fire? I believe no one will do that. Refer to the “invasion” of Magodo by mean-looking, gun-wielding police officers in large numbers, who laid siege to the estate on December 21, creating chaos in the area and fear among the landlords and residents. It took the intervention of the Governor for those police officers to stand down the following day. He did not have to visit Magodo before the situation was brought under control. He has continued to engage with the law enforcers in Abuja over the matter up till Tuesday morning when another round of crisis occurred. This time, the Governor could not and would not sit back in his office and watch some persons disturb the peace that is being enjoyed in his State to be threatened. That to me, is leadership.
I sympathise with those who shared the above opinions especially those who feel strongly about the Governor’s engagement with the police officer. I understand their plight and rightly so because Nigerians are not used to civil engagements between elected officials, who are usually Lords and their citizens. We are sorry to disappoint you as Governor Sanwo-Olu will continue to engage the citizens, who he considers as the major stakeholders in his bid to take Lagos to her Eldorado.
South West Governors’ Forum position
The Governors of South West of Nigeria have spoken loudly. They know that an injury to one, is an injury to all. No one is safe until everybody is safe.
In a statement signed by the Forum’s Chairman, His Excellency Governor Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN), apart from their condemnation of the exchange between Governor Sanwo-Olu and the police officer, the Forum made it abundantly clear that the present structure where the State Governors, who are elected representatives of the people, will have to seek help and approval from an appointed Federal officer in some matters relating to security in their individual domains.
He said: “The content of the video is very disconcerting, and this is being charitable. The utter disrespect, which underlines the response of the officer to the Governor establishes, beyond doubt, the impracticability of the current system, dubiously christened “Federalism”. An arrangement, which compels the Governor of a State to seek clarifications on security issues in his jurisdiction from totally extraneous bodies or persons, is a sure recipe for anarchy”
“We condemn, very strongly, this brazen assault on decency. We call on the IG to explain the justification for this intrusion. This is not acceptable. Any expectations of rapprochement between so called federating units and federal security agencies are becoming forlorn, progressively, due to deliberate acts which mock our very avowal to ethics and professionalism”
“We condemn, in very clear terms, the role of the Attorney General of the Federation, Mr Abubakar Malami SAN in this act of gross moral turpitude. “
“We, on our part, will continue to interrogate the current system, which treats elected representatives of the people as mere prefects, while appointed office holders ride roughshod over them as Lords of the Manor. If the purported Chief Security Officers of the States of the Federation require clearance from the office of the IG on matters within their areas of jurisdictions, only hypocrites will wonder why the current security crisis deepens and there appears to be no solution in the foreseeable future”
In all, with his intervention in many life-threatening situations, Lagosians have started applauding their Governor. They have confirmed his genuine love and care for the people he is governing. Magodo residents can now go to sleep with their eyes closed. The judgement creditors are also happy with Mr. Governor’s leadership approach and Abuja can be assured that, again, Lagos under Governor Sanwo-Olu will continue to rise above every challenge.
Clearly, however, what Nigerians need to clamour for is genuine Federalism. A system where there will be mutually agreeable terms on Exclusive and Concurrent List between the Federating units and the Federal government on matters of internal security, especially the Police.
Akosile is the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu
PRESIDENT BUHARI REJOICES WITH SEN. FELIX KOLAWOLE BAJOMO ON 80TH BIRTHDAY
President Muhammadu Buhari joins family and friends to celebrate with Sen. Felix Kolawole Bajomo on his 80th birthday, January 7, 2022, congratulating the lawmaker and administrator on the milestone, heralded by many years of service to the nation.
President Buhari notes the contributions of Sen. Bajomo to the economic development of the country before joining politics, working variously as Managing Director, Commercial Trust Bank; Executive Director, Union Bank; Executive Director, Savannah Bank, and Chairman of the Federal Housing Authority and holding the position of President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
As the Senator turns an octogenarian, the President believes the experiences and skills acquired over many years in private and public service will always be relevant, especially the exceptional leadership ability that he displays in building institutions, managing people and resources, and remaining focused on goals.
President Buhari felicitates with Senator Bajomo’s constituency, Ogun West, members of the National Assembly and all political associates on the landmark age, praying that the Almighty God will increase the celebrant in good health and wisdom.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 6, 2022
WE’LL MAKE AS MUCH SACRIFICE AS WE CAN FOR MALI, WITHIN ECOWAS REQUIREMENTS, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI
President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday received a Special Envoy from Col. Assimi Goita, the Transitional President of Mali, promising that Nigeria would do her level best for the sister country, within the requirements of ECOWAS.
Col. Abdoulaye Maiga, Mali’s Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization, led a team, which briefed President Buhari on Conclusions from the National Conference on State-Rebuilding, held in Bamako, December 27-30, 2021.
Responding to the comprehensive briefing, the President said nobody could love Mali more than Malians themselves, counselling that everyone should work within the tenets of ECOWAS, in order to restore constitutional order to the West African country at the shortest possible time.
“I am pleased you have briefed the ECOWAS Chairman too,’’ said President Buhari. “Nigeria will work within ECOWAS limitations to assist Mali. Every country has its issues. We fought our own Civil War before, so we may not know the totality of the internal politics of each country. But we will make as much sacrifice as we can for Mali, within ECOWAS requirements.”
The Special Envoy expressed gratitude to Nigeria for support to his country in terms of bilateral relations, and for the help rendered to the ECOWAS Mediation Team, led by former President Goodluck Jonathan.
He said the vision of Col. Goita was speedy return to democracy, adding that Mali wants to review laws guiding elections, “and professionalize the process.”
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
January 6, 2022
January 5, 2022
Press Statement
Buhari, APC Using Salami as Scapegoat for Failure- PDP
…Says Advising an Incompetent Administration is a Waste of Time
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) describes the appointment of Dr. Doyin Salami by President Muhammadu Buhari as Chief Economic Adviser barely a year to end of his disastrous administration as a design to make the economist a scapegoat for the abysmal failures of the All Progressives Congress (APC) government.
It is evident that Dr. Salami might end up being rubbished and diminished as a titular adviser given that the Buhari Presidency and the APC, in their ignorance, arrogance and incompetence, are never known to have any respect or regard for professional advice on governance and policy.
As long as the APC, with its insensitivity to the plight of Nigerians is in government, involved professionals like Dr. Salami can never make a headway but risk being smeared with failure.
If the APC government did not listen to Dr. Salami as the Head of the hurriedly established Presidential Economic Advisory Council (PEAC), it will not now take his advice in his new capacity because the APC government lacks the listening ears, competence, capacity, integrity and political will and desire for good governance.
President Buhari and the APC have never prioritized the economy. The result is a near collapsed economy with two recessions within six years; a 71 percent poverty rate, 33.1 percent unemployment rate, over $38 billion external debt and an unenviable national status as the poverty capital of the world. For this, they desperately seek to use renowned professionals like Dr. Salami as fall guys especially as we approach the 2023 general elections.
If President Buhari and the APC had listened to well-thought-out advice by patriotic Nigerians as well as the PDP on how to stabilize and grow the economy, our nation would not be in the current economic quagmire where over 80 million Nigerians can no longer afford their daily meals and other basic necessities of life.
The APC failed to heed the counsel to end its corruption, open up and diversify our economy, review its restrictive and exclusionist policies, invest more in our productive sectors, end its victimization of hardworking Nigerian entrepreneurs, adopt broad-based approach that allows for greater private sector participation and stop demarketing our country especially the youths in the international arena.
Instead, the Buhari-led administration remained lethargic, nonchalant, unconcerned, hubristic and irredeemably narcissistic. It turned itself into a cesspit of corruption and continued to provide official cover to inept, reckless and treasury-looting APC leaders and their cronies in government.
Dr. Salami should therefore protect his image by advising President Buhari to end his reckless borrowing and grow the economy by allowing for more transparency, redirecting the resources being siphoned by APC leaders to critical sectors of the economy, especially power and agriculture and giving hardworking Nigerians, especially the youths, greater incentives for active participation in the national economy.
For emphasis our Party admonishes Dr. Salami to note that his task of advising an incompetent, arrogant and corrupt administration would be grueling if not a complete waste of time.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
WIKE TO OGONI: BE MORE UNITED, STOP DESTROYING YOURSELVES
Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has berated the leaders and people of Ogoni ethnic nationality for promoting disunity among themselves while blaming the backwardness of their area on others.
Governor Wike made the accusation at the 30th celebration of Ogoni Day with the theme, “Leaving no one behind”, that held at the Birabi Memorial Grammar School, Bori town, in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State on Tuesday.
Specifically, Governor Wike queried how many Ogoni leaders can truly defend the interest of Ogoni land, and genuinely pursue issues of environmental degradation and resource control with the same zest demonstrated by their forebears like late Ken Saro-Wiwa, without selling out.
“People like Ken Saro-Wiwa and all of the people you’re celebrating on Ogoni Day, how many of you can today stand for what Ken (Saro-Wiwa) stood for; how many can today stand for the great Ogoni men who died for your struggle.”
He noted with regret how some Ogoni people have now debased the struggle and have rather used it to collect money from those who do not want the goals of the struggle achieved. According to the governor, such monetary largess they make can best be described as blood money and wondered with what conscience that they gather each year to celebrate a struggle that they have betrayed.
“You use Ogoni Day to make money. God will never forgive you. I will never be a party to make blood money. All of you0, you’re here today for Ogoni Day, are you standing firm for Ogoni people? Are you standing firm for the spirit of those who died for you? Go and check your conscience. Ogoni people check your conscience.”
The governor asserted that he had never betrayed Rivers’ interest but defended it with courage including pursuing the OML 11 law suit at the Supreme Court. He observed that the case may not concluded before his tenure will end, but it may secure the most needed ownership right of such resources to the people.
“You people are talking about OML 11. Today, I’m in Supreme Court to challenge the federal government and NNPC. I will not be governor forever, I’m leaving next year, but God in heaven will bear me witness, I have protected, defended the interest of the state and interest of Ogoni land.”
Governor Wike admonished Ogoni leaders and the people to stop being used as agents of discord by the Federal Government and its agencies to pull down their own and betray the Ogoni interest.
He pointed to how Ogonis are contributing to frustrate the political career of one of their bright brains, Senator Magnus Abe, and Ledum Mitee’s long fight to become a Senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
The governor also noted that the same lack of unity seen in Ogoniland is prevalent in the entire Niger Delta because governors in the region, lawmakers and other levels of leaders are hardly working together in unison. According to him, the people of Niger Delta are the ones marginalising themselves because each tribe thinks herself as more Niger Deltan than the other
Chairman of the occasion and President, Ijaw National Congress, Professor Benjamin Okaba said the fundamental problem of the country is the refusal of the Nigerian State to restore the derivation principle that was abrogated by Decree NO.34 of May 1966 by Aguiyi Ironsi, the subsequent promulgation of Petroleum Decree 1966, and General Olusegun Obasanjo’s 1978 Land Use Act considered widely as the most obnoxious, draconian and unjust piece of legislation on land and resource ownership.
“The Petroleum Industry Act 2021, that is laced with several contentious and discriminating clauses against the people of the Niger Delta is yet another dimension of institutional injustice against the oil and gas host communities of the Niger Delta.
“Chief Obasanjo who is unarguably widely travelled, if excused from the paranoid of hypocrisy and hatred for the Niger Delta, will admit that in the United States of America which presidential system Nigeria borrowed from, it is the states where oil is found that own them and not the Federal Government of America.
“It’s the reason states like Texas is very rich, from proceeds of oil and gas. Same goes for Canada. In every federation, the undiluted application of the fundamentals of federalism (including fiscal federalism) are the minimum prerequisites for sustainable unity, peace and coexistence. Where else among the nations that practice federalism that permits the federal government to hijack the resources from the various federating units and communities, siphon them to the Centre on the Emperor’s laps, and shares same as booties in the manner we have in Nigeria?”
The former President of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), Ledum Mitee, in his remark recalled how he and other Ogoni leaders gathered at the same venue 30 years ago to commence the Ogoni struggle that has since been recognised globally.
He appealed to the Nigerian state to extend rail line to Ogoni which has contributed immensely to the development of the country’s economic growth.
Senator Barry Mpigi commended Governor Wike for gracing the occasion and identifying with the Ogoni people and their struggle.
Kelvin Ebiri
Special Assistant Media to the Rivers State Governor
January 4, 2021
President Muhammadu Buhari has appointed the Board and Management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, in accordance with the power vested in him under Section 59(2) of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021.
Chairman of the Board is Senator Margret Chuba Okadigbo (South East), Mele Kolo Kyari, Chief Executive Officer, and Umar I. Ajiya, Chief Financial Officer.
Other Board Members are; Dr Tajudeen Umar (North East), Mrs Lami O. Ahmed (North Central), Mallam Mohammed Lawal (North West), Engr. Henry Obih (South East), Barrister Constance Harry Marshal (South South), and Chief Pius Akinyelure(South West).
The appointments take effect from the date of the incorporation of the NNPC Limited.
Also appointed are Executive Commissioners of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission. They are: Dr Nuhu Habib (Kano), Executive Commissioner, Development and Production, Dr Kelechi Onyekachi Ofoegbu (Imo), Executive Commissioner, Economic Regulations and Strategic Planning, Capt. Tonlagha Roland John (Delta), Executive Commissioner, Health, Safety, Environment and Community, and Jide Adeola (Kogi), Executive Commissioner, Corporate Services and Administration.
Earlier appointed are the Board Chairman, CEO, Executive Commissioner, Exploration and Acreage Management, and Executive Commissioner, Finance and Accounts.
New appointees at the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority are Francis Alabo Ogaree (Rivers), Executive Director, Hydrocarbon Processing, Mustapha Lamorde (Adamawa), Executive Director, Health, Safety, Environment and Community, Mansur Kuliya (Kano), Executive Director, Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund, Bashir Sadiq (Sokoto), Executive Director, Corporate Services and Administration, and Dr Zainab Gobir (Kwara), Executive Director, Economic Regulations and Strategic Planning.
They join the Board Chairman, Executive Director, Downstream Systems, Storage and Retailing Infrastructure, the CEO, and Executive Director, Finance and Accounts, who had earlier been appointed.
For Midstream and Downstream Infrastructure Fund, new Council Members are; Mr Effiong Abia (Akwa Ibom), Bobboi Ahmed (Adamawa), and Engr. Abdullahi Bukar (Katsina).
It will be recalled that President Buhari had last September written the Senate on the administrative structure amendments to the Petroleum Industry Act, which included appointment of Non-Executive Board Members, removal of the Ministries of Petroleum and Finance from the Board of the two new institutions, and appointment of Executive Directors.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
January 5, 2022
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU INTERVENES IN MAGODO LAND TUSSLE, ORDERS STAND DOWN
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday fully intervened in the Magodo Phase II land tussle by restoring peace to the estate.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who called on all the parties involved to stand down pending when the matter is completely resolved, invited affected families, residents and other stakeholders to a meeting in his office at Lagos House, Ikeja on Wednesday at 11 am for peaceful resolutions.
It would be recalled that armed policemen, who were acting on the instruction of the Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and the Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, a fortnight ago had laid a siege in Magodo Phase II Estate following the planned demolition of property in the estate based on a Supreme Court Order.
Some members of a family had come to execute the Supreme Court judgment on the ownership of the land where hundreds of properties were built. The properties were marked with red, brown, and blue inks to inscribe ‘ID/795/88 Possession Taken Today 21/12/21 by Court Order’.
The siege on Magodo II Estate was resisted by landlords and residents, who protested and trooped out en mass to prevent forceful takeover or demolition of their properties.
Speaking to journalists and estate residents during his visit to Magodo Phase II Estate on Tuesday to assess the situation of things himself, Governor Sanwo-Olu who was accompanied by his cabinet members and the Lagos State Police Commissioner, Hakeem Odumosu, said the matter called for proper deliberation in the interest of peace and therefore implored all parties to stand down until the matter is completely resolved.
The Governor also assured residents of the estate that nobody would be harassed or any property be pulled down pending the outcome of his meeting with all the parties involved.
He said: “I have spoken extensively with the Inspector-General of Police and the Attorney- General of the Federation, and we have resolved all of the issues. So what we would see is that there is going to be a total stand down. Tomorrow (Wednesday), we will be inviting the representatives of the judgement creditors.
“We have actually started a committee meeting, but I want to invite them (Judgement creditors) again officially to my office tomorrow by 11 a.m. to come over with two or three of their representatives. The State Government representatives will be there, the residents’ association will be there, and the police will also be there. So whatever it is that must have brought about all these troubles and heartaches will need to be brought there.
“We will all go through every line of it and we will come to an amicable resolution. So, I want everyone to please ensure that peace will be restored to the estate. I want all of our citizens to go about their lawful businesses knowing fully well that nobody will be harassed or any property will be trampled upon pending all of these conversations.
“We will have an extended conversation tomorrow so that we can bring this to final closure. So I want to ask the residents, the executives, don’t take the laws into your hands. Just go back home peacefully. The Policemen have been recalled back. They would be here and nothing would happen. And tomorrow, even the judgement creditors, would also come to meet with us. They claimed that the people that we met here were not their full representatives.”
Prior to Governor Sanwo-Olu’s address to journalists and residents of the estate, the Governor and his team visited the police station within the estate, he was addressed by one CSP Abimbola Oyewole, who told him that his team had been sent from Abuja to execute the Supreme Court judgement on Magodo Phase 2 properties.
After the police team leader could not provide the copy of the said judgement as demanded by the governor, Governor Sanwo-Olu ordered the armed policemen to deactivate their operation and leave Lagos in the interest of peace.
Governor Sanwo-Olu told the Police officers that the matter is between the Lagos State government and the judgement creditor.
“It is a case between the residents of Lagos and the supposed people, not the residents. They have nothing to do with the residents. Please, can you call your superior now in Abuja that the state governor is here standing in front of you and I am the Chief Security Officer and that I want you to leave now and that you have no business in my state, that I want you to disengage now?” Governor Sanwo-Olu declared.
Governor Sanwo-Olu later placed phone calls to the authorities in Abuja, on whose authority the armed policemen were said to have been acting and the stand off was resolved.
The visit of Governor Sanwo-Olu also facilitated the release of about 20 residents that were arrested earlier by the Police officers.
According to residents of the estate, those arrested were detained by the Police in what they described as an unlawful invasion of their properties, saying most of the property owners were locked up in the name of the enforcement of the Supreme Court verdict.
Some of the residents who spoke to journalists commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for coming to their rescue and showing leadership in the state by defending them in time of need as the Chief Security Officer of Lagos State.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
04 JANUARY 2022
PRESS RELEASE
ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY: SANWO-OLU LAUNCHES 2022 EMBLEM, DONATES N50M TO NIGERIAN LEGION
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday officially launched the emblem and appeal fund ahead of the January 15, 2022 commemoration of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who donated N50million to the State chapter of the Nigerian Legion during the Appeal Fund and launching of the Year 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem at Lagos House, Ikeja on Tuesday, expressed his administration’s commitment to empower widows of the fallen heroes.
He, therefore, directed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) to work with the office of the Lagos State Chapter of the Nigerian Legion to identify persons the State can give empowerment and supports to within the first quarter of this year.
“Every year, we set out to remember our fallen heroes, men and women that served the country, especially on the war front. Those that paid the supreme price while serving the nation and it is customary that on January 15, we remember them. But before then, we usually have an emblem launch which we use to remind ourselves that we are together with them in fellowship and we are together throughout this period to offer prayers, wish them the very best and offer some succour, especially to the families of the fallen heroes; the widows and the widowers.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, we would donate the sum of N50million for the emblem. So you can see that we have done 10 fold of what we did the other time. That itself is a big lift for us. We will continue to support in other areas.
“We gave commitments around empowering some of the widows. I am using this opportunity to direct the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) to work with your office to identify beneficiaries and people that we can give empowerment and support to and that would be done within the first quarter of this year.
“I wish you the best as you go out to launch and further pass on the emblem and to say that the Lagos State Government will continue to identify with the Lagos State Chapter of the Nigerian Legion and wish you the best in the preparation of this year activity,” the governor said.
Speaking earlier, the Commandant of the Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Legion, Col Fola Akande (rtd), commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for the welfare and concern of retired officers, saying “Mr. Governor is indeed a worthy Patriot of the Nigerian Legion.”
He urged the people and government to continue to support and identify with widows, children and families of the fallen heroes by donating generously, buying and wearing the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration emblem.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, alongside his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, some cabinet members and heads of security agencies in the State were decorated with the Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
04 JANUARY 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH MARTINS OLOJA, FAMILY OVER PASSING OF FATHER, ELDER MICHAEL OLOJA LEMIKAN
President Muhammadu Buhari commiserates with Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of The Guardian, Mr Martins Oloja and entire family over the passing of their patriarch, Elder Michael Oloja Lemikan, 93.
The President joins the Baptist Church, government and people of Ondo State in mourning Elder Lemikan, whose sojourn on earth was a testimony of community leadership, devotion to worship, love for neighbours and strong advocate of peaceful co-existence.
President Buhari urges family, friends and associates of the devote Christian to find solace in the good works of their departed father and grandfather, and emulate his kind ways.
The President prays for the repose of his soul.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 5, 2022
AIRING OF PRESIDENTIAL INTERVIEWS
Channels Television will broadcast its exclusive interview with President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at 7 pm.
Similarly, another interview session with the President by the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) will be aired on the network service of the station on Thursday, January 6 at 8 pm.
Please watch.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 5, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI APPOINTS DR DOYIN SALAMI AS CHIEF ECONOMIC ADVISER
A Chief Economic Adviser to the President (CEAP) has been appointed.
He is Dr Doyin Salami, up till now Chairman of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council (PEAC).
A 1989 doctorate degree graduate in Economics of Queen Mary College, University of London, Doyin Salami, 59, is Managing Director and Head Markets Practice at KAINOS Edge Consulting Limited, and member of the Adjunct Faculty at the Lagos Business School (LBS), Pan-Atlantic University, where he recently attained the rank of Senior Fellow/Associate Professor.
The Chief Economic Adviser to the President is expected to address all issues on the domestic economy and present views on them to the President; closely monitor national and international developments, trends and develop appropriate policy responses; develop and recommend to the President national economic policies to foster macro-economic stability, promote growth, create jobs, and eradicate poverty, among others.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
Trial of Corrupt officials: Niger Delta Youths back Buhari, laud Akpabio
Youth leaders in the Niger Delta on Sunday applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for vowing to rid the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) of the moral and political rot that has plagued it for so long.
‘’We are continually inspired by Buhari’s dedication and vision to addressing development issues in the Niger Delta region’’
At a meeting in Warri, the youth leaders praised Buhari for his decision on the concluded forensic audit of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
‘’We appreciate every sincere effort made to achieve development in the Niger Delta region’’
They commended Buhari for ordering the release of outstanding NDDC funds and trial of corrupt officials, noting that this creates the momentum which can accelerate progress in the region.
‘’The President’s directive on the completion of all viable projects, which have been abandoned by the NDDC, is a welcome development”.
Chairman of the Niger Delta Progressives Movement (NDPM), Mr. Julius Ita, told a news conference after the gathering in Warri that there was political will and good faith to guarantee the development of the region.
The youth leaders applauded Buhari for steps so far taken to prevent corruption in NDDC.
Specifically, the youths commended Senator Godswill Akpabio for breathing life into the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, revitalizing the region, instilling a renewed sense of faith and hope and creating a wonderful legacy for Niger Delta’s future.
‘’Chief Godswill Akpabio represents an extraordinary example of the spirit we honour in the region’’
The youths emphasized Akpabio’s depth of commitment and leadership in the country, integrity and honest work.
The youth leaders described the remarks of the National Chairman of Niger Delta People’s Forum (NDPF), Chief Boma Ebiakpo as “negative and divisive”.
‘’It won’t distract or deter the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio from his focus on developing the Niger Delta region’’ said the youth leaders.
The youth leaders said they expected Ebiakpo and his sponsors to cherish Akpabio’s contribution, wisdom and energy to the realization of the Niger Delta dream.
‘’An NDDC Board in the First Half-Year Period will be a distraction’’ the youth leaders pointed out.
PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI COMMISSIONS ORIENTAL ENERGY RESOURCES LTD.’S STATE-OF-THE-ART AIRCRAFT HANGER AND ANCILARY EXECUTIVE FACILITIES AT MAIDUGURI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.
…as Oriental Energy Resources Chairman, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, OFR, extols Julius Berger’s Engineering construction quality.
Oriental Energy Resources Limited founded by renowned industrialist, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, OFR, scored a high mark on its infrastructural contribution to the country’s development last Thursday when President Muhammadu Buhari commissioned the company’s new ultra-modern aircraft Hangar at the Maiduguri international airport in Borno State. The works also included the cast of an apron slab and a new taxiway constructed to connect the Hangar to the main runway of the Maiduguri International Airport
The Hangar materials, including beams, columns, and metal sheets, amongst other technical components were procured by Oriental Energy Resources Limited, while its precision integration and construction was awarded to the nation’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
In less than one year of commencement of the works, the ever-reliable Julius Berger has built the Hangar, which houses not only Aircraft but also offices and welfare spaces for the Client, its employees, pilots and executive guests. Ancillary facilities at the new state-of-the-art Hangar include two modern guesthouses designed and built to Julius Berger’s ISO certification quality standard. The respected industrialist, Alhaji Indimi commended Julius Berger for the excellent quality of works Julius Berger delivered for Oriental Energy Resources at the Maiduguri International Airport.
Other important dignitaries who accompanied President Muhammadu Buhari to the ceremony included the Executive Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagan Zulum, the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Borno State Ali Modu-Sheriff, amongst others. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Irabor personally actively led the security and military contingent to the successful ceremony in Maiduguri.
Representing the Managing Director Engr. Dr Lars Richter and leading Julius Berger’s delegation to the commissioning ceremony in Maiduguri was the company’s Executive Director of Administration, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi. Engr. Goni Musa Sheikh, Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc was also at the ceremony.
….as Club Chairman hails engineering construction leader’s works as preferred top quality, good and durable
Julius Berger Facility Works in Lagos has signed a facility upgrade contract with Ikoyi Golf Club 1938. Captain of Ikoyi Golf Club 1938, Dr M.I Okoro lauded Julius Berger Nigeria PLC for its widely acknowledged professionalism in the discharge of its engineering construction and maintenance works, describing the company’s work quality as “the good, durable and preferred standard”. He spoke Tuesday in Lagos at the contract signing ceremony to kick off the comprehensive upgrade of the irrigation system for Ikoyi Golf Club 1938 just as he enjoined the country’s building and construction services sector leader to sustain and better their own record in service delivery on the job. Dr. Okoro proudly added that the partnership between the Club and Julius Berger has come a long way and that it can therefore be sincerely referred to as historical.
Dr. Okoro said, “…on the contract, even as it is for the comprehensive upgrade of the irrigation system in the Golf Course, we advise that there should be an ad-hoc maintenance of the Golf Course. This is because, as you can notice, the current harmattan weather is now affecting the green grass. However, we are confident that the course will be revived and well greened again with Julius Berger facility works ably coming to the rescue. Julius Berger has a great history of performance with us. They constructed our car park long time ago, and as you can all see, it is still there as strong and good as new. So we trust that the company will do a great job of the irrigation upgrade.”
Chairman of Ikoyi Golfers Community of Nigeria Association, IGCNA, Mr. Wahab Aminu-Sarumi did not mince words in re-echoing what the Captain said of Julius Berger even as he wished the Golf Course a rewarding partnership with Julius Berger on the current project.
Present at the contract signing ceremony and flag-off of the facility upgrade works were Lady Captain of the Golf Club, Mrs, Aworanti Oyenike and Course Officer and member of IGCNA, Mr. Peter Eben-Spiff.
Engr. Amina Dotti led the Julius Berger team at the contract-signing ceremony. She assured that the irreducible Julius Berger engineering standard will power the works. Amina was accompanied by the Project Manager, Engr. Rhoderick Picana amongst others to the event.
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is Nigeria’s leading engineering construction brand, which offers holistic integrated construction solutions and related services including Facility Management.
The Julius Berger Lagos Facility Works is the Lagos-based operational arm of the larger Julius Berger Facility Management Works, which also have an operational arm located at the company’s Region Central North with its hub in Abuja. The Julius Berger Facility Works operate on the impeccable and irreducible corporate core values of best quality, safety, integrity, compliance, partnership and innovation all of which have become definitive of the company’s matchless technical expertise and excellence in the implementation of state-of-the-art methods and technologies.
Julius Berger Facility Works says, “…we are committed to providing a conducive environment to enable our clients achieve their overall goals through the provision of excellent and sustainable facility management from one single source, using world-class innovations, technology, skilled personnel and global best practices to ensure the functionality, comfort, safety, durability, sustainability and efficiency of a property”.
With affirmative International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certification as well with a proven record of accomplishment and delivery, Julius Berger Facility Works’ Quality Management Systems are well equipped to satisfy the customers’ needs. Julius Berger Facility Works focuses majorly on the provision of hard and soft Services for buildings and building systems, energy management models, refurbishment and upgrade of buildings and ancillary services, facility management consultancy services to corporate organizations and private clients with net worth real estate assets.
The qualitative and reliably professional Julius Berger badge of competence, technical edge and robustly integrated logistical systems assures high quality services delivery to all clients while ensuring minimum total life cycle cost and value retention of an asset to the owner
Julius Berger Abumet Shares Love at Christmas, Donates food and treated Mosquito Nets to the Less-Privileged in Abuja
In the spirit of the season, Abumet, Nigeria’s leading full-service aluminium and glass solutions company has donated food items and insecticidal treated nets to the less privileged in its host communities within the FCT.
Some of the communities that benefited from the company’s recent Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) gesture are Idu-Paipe, close to the Idu Railway Station, and Piwoyi Community along the Airport Road, in Abuja. At Idu-Paipe, the company reached 540 households through the distribution of Insecticidal Treated Nets (ITN) to students and staff of LEA Primary School, Idu Paipe.
Addressing pupils and staff of the school, the Human Resources Manager, Abumet Nigeria Limited, Mr. Chime Nnabugwu, explained that the company is optimistic that the ITNs will help to curb the spread of malaria within the community while reducing the number of school absenteeism caused by malaria infection. Each student also received an Abumet branded string bag.
The Head Teacher of the school Mr. Agyo Sabo expressed his happiness and noted that the gesture was the first of its kind since he began working at the school. “It is very obvious from the kind of joy you see the pupils express. It means a lot to them. This is the first time we are receiving something like this from anybody since I have been here. And it is also quite an honour to have the General Manager (Mr. Alexander Hausner) lead the delegation to our school. We thank Abumet and its entire management and we hope they will visit us again with more in the coming year”, Sabo said.
In Piwoyi Community, Bema Home for Orphans and the Less-Privileged received about a million naira worth of food items, toiletries, and educational materials.
The General Manager of Abumet Nigeria Limited, Mr. Alexander Hausner, personally handed over the educational items pack to each student and encouraged them to be studious and hopeful for a great future. Receiving the other items, the Director, Bema Homes, Mr. Benedict Dzreke described the day as a special day for the orphanage. “For you, as a company to come and put a smile on the faces of our precious children is a thing of joy. I believe that what you have done today is not a misplacement. For the gifts presented to us today, we are short of words.”
Benedict extoled the humility and simplicity of the General Manager of Abumet. He said, “We want to thank you Mr. Alexander Hausner for personally leading the delegation. You have come here without the large entourage or a retinue of security we are accustomed to when a high-profit person is visiting the home. Abumet is a big name in Nigeria and your superior quality aluminium works are known all over, so also is the quality of reception that you accord to your customers.
“On behalf of Bema Homes, I want to thank you for the kind gesture, and we pray that the good Lord who sees in secrete, reward your company in the open. We want to see your company expand across Africa because of the quality of work you do”, Benedict Dzreke concluded.
Some Abumet staff who accompanied the General Manager, Alexander Hausner on the CSR outing were the Human Resources Manager, Chime Nnabugwu, and the company’s Brand Marketing Coordinator, Esther Duruibe. Others are Michael Ashofor and Ayomide Sunmonu of the Corporate Communications Department of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
Abumet is a member of the Julius Berger Group. It offers innovative, high-quality aluminium and glass products and services, making it available for delivery and installation across Nigeria and beyond. The company actively seeks the latest advances in aluminium and glass engineering and manufacturing, continuously upgrading its products and services for the benefit of its customers and clients.
In the spirit of the season, Abumet, Nigeria’s leading full-service aluminium and glass solutions company has donated food items and insecticidal treated nets to the less privileged in its host communities within the FCT.
Some of the communities that benefited from the company’s recent Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) gesture are Idu-Paipe, close to the Idu Railway Station, and Piwoyi Community along the Airport Road, in Abuja. At Idu-Paipe, the company reached 540 households through the distribution of Insecticidal Treated Nets (ITN) to students and staff of LEA Primary School, Idu Paipe.
Addressing pupils and staff of the school, the Human Resources Manager, Abumet Nigeria Limited, Mr. Chime Nnabugwu, explained that the company is optimistic that the ITNs will help to curb the spread of malaria within the community while reducing the number of school absenteeism caused by malaria infection. Each student also received an Abumet branded string bag.
The Head Teacher of the school Mr. Agyo Sabo expressed his happiness and noted that the gesture was the first of its kind since he began working at the school. “It is very obvious from the kind of joy you see the pupils express. It means a lot to them. This is the first time we are receiving something like this from anybody since I have been here. And it is also quite an honour to have the General Manager (Mr. Alexander Hausner) lead the delegation to our school. We thank Abumet and its entire management and we hope they will visit us again with more in the coming year”, Sabo said.
In Piwoyi Community, Bema Home for Orphans and the Less-Privileged received about a million naira worth of food items, toiletries, and educational materials.
The General Manager of Abumet Nigeria Limited, Mr. Alexander Hausner, personally handed over the educational items pack to each student and encouraged them to be studious and hopeful for a great future. Receiving the other items, the Director, Bema Homes, Mr. Benedict Dzreke described the day as a special day for the orphanage. “For you, as a company to come and put a smile on the faces of our precious children is a thing of joy. I believe that what you have done today is not a misplacement. For the gifts presented to us today, we are short of words.”
Benedict extoled the humility and simplicity of the General Manager of Abumet. He said, “We want to thank you Mr. Alexander Hausner for personally leading the delegation. You have come here without the large entourage or a retinue of security we are accustomed to when a high-profit person is visiting the home. Abumet is a big name in Nigeria and your superior quality aluminium works are known all over, so also is the quality of reception that you accord to your customers.
“On behalf of Bema Homes, I want to thank you for the kind gesture, and we pray that the good Lord who sees in secrete, reward your company in the open. We want to see your company expand across Africa because of the quality of work you do”, Benedict Dzreke concluded.
Some Abumet staff who accompanied the General Manager, Alexander Hausner on the CSR outing were the Human Resources Manager, Chime Nnabugwu, and the company’s Brand Marketing Coordinator, Esther Duruibe. Others are Michael Ashofor and Ayomide Sunmonu of the Corporate Communications Department of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
Abumet is a member of the Julius Berger Group. It offers innovative, high-quality aluminium and glass products and services, making it available for delivery and installation across Nigeria and beyond. The company actively seeks the latest advances in aluminium and glass engineering and manufacturing, continuously upgrading its products and services for the benefit of its customers and clients
Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq, most gender friendly governor in Nigeria – Media Professionals
Media professionals in Nigeria on Sunday commended the Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq for inspiring the girl child, reducing inequalities and giving women in the state a fair space in the decision-making process.
They also applauded the governor for making accountability his watchword.
Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq recently signed into law a bill that makes it mandatory to have at least 35 per cent women appointees in the State Executive Council and other classes of political appointments.
In a statement in Lagos, the professionals advised other governors in the country to learn from the governor of Kwara State.
The professionals congratulated Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq for the credible efforts to justify the mandate given to him by the good people of Kwara State as represented in his gender policy, institutional setup and the many physical improvements that are visible in all the local government areas.
The statement signed by the Chairman of the Nigerian Media Professionals Group, Mr Daniel Okeme applauded Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq for promoting women in leadership roles in the state, gingering the public service, encouraging a private sector driven economy, eliminating wasteful spending, and ensuring strict adherence to budget provision.
They praised the governor for opening up rural areas through the construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of roads.
The statement underscored electricity, infrastructure, human resources development, skill acquisition, healthcare and education.
The professionals listed a sound economic base, gender empowerment, wealth creation and poverty reduction as key areas where the governor performed creditably.
Specifically, the professionals applauded the governor for providing drinking water and electricity to rural areas, boosting agriculture and ensuring that peace and security prevail.
The statement also emphasised the good working relationship between the executive and the legislature, encouragement of foreign investments, women’s rights and gender equality.
Akpabio’s contribution to Niger Delta development unprecedented – Youth leaders
Youth leaders from the Niger Delta region on Tuesday applauded Senator Godswill Akpabio for conceiving and implementing projects in line with well-defined vision and strategies.
‘’The evidence so far is that the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio. is well-informed of what is expected of him and he is rising to the occasion admirably’’
At a meeting in Owerri, the youths commended Akpabio for giving priority to the basic infrastructure like roads, electricity, education, drinking water, health, land reclamation, construction of jetties and canalization.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is offering permanent solutions to the Niger Delta problems. He is giving succour to the afflicted, building bridges of friendship across the region and giving the people a sense of belonging’’.
The youth leaders spoke on the 3 per cent contribution of oil companies from their annual budgets to NDDC, the huge debt owed the commission by International Oil Companies, IOCs, operating in the region, Akpabio’s doggedness and sincerity and the financial resources to meet NDDC recurrent and capital expenditure,
In an address read on behalf of Youth Groups in the Niger Delta by the President, Coalition of Progressive Niger Delta Youths (CPNDY), Mr Chukwuma Nwabueze, the youth leaders praised Akpabio for properly and efficiently managing the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.
They also applauded the former governor of Akwa Ibom State for galvanising the people into lending full support to the government in the campaign to transform the region.
‘’Godswill Akpabio’s strategy of development is aimed at breaking the ground for a dynamic growth of the Niger Delta’’
The youths emphasised proper coordination, distribution pattern of projects across the nine states of the region and completion of some abandoned projects.
They cautioned that there was great danger in constituting the NDDC Board
‘’Our attitude to the call for the constituting of the board for the Niger Delta Development Commission in 2021 is one of extreme caution. We also urge President Muhamadu Buhari not to yield to the temptation of constituting the NDDC Board now’’
The youths also highlighted the on-going East West Road project, the 1050 bed hostel in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, human capital development, skills acquisition centres in all the 9 states of the Niger Delta and the 132kv substation in Ondo state, which will supply power to about 5 local governments.
‘’The good people of the Niger Delta have suffered from the myopic advice of The Ijaw Interest Advocate (IIA). We feel strongly that Mr Musa Saidu is a busy body that chose to cry where there is none. We urge the general public to disregard the lies, rumours peddled by the Izanzan Intellectual Camp, Saidu and other unpatriotic elements’’.
R-L: REGIONAL MANAGER, (REGIONAL CENTRAL NORTH), JULIUS BERGER NIGERIA PLC, MR. OLIVER BERGER; EXECUTIVE PROJECT COORDINATOR, JULIUS BERGER NIGERIA PLC, MR. KOEHLER KAI-UWE AND WIFE; REGIONAL MANAGER, AKR, MR. RALF BRENDICKE; EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ADMINISTRATION, JULIUS BERGER NIGERIA PLC, ALHAJI ZUBAIRU IBRAHIM BAYI; GENERAL MANAGER, JULIUS BERGER–AFP, MR. OLIVER COHNEN; PED MANAGER, JULIUS BERGER NIGERIA PLC, MR. STEFAN. ZAUNER; MR. BENNY. BROMMER, PLANNING DEPT., JULIUS BERGER–AFP, AND THE RECIPIENTS OF THE AWARDS.
THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ADMINISTRATION, JULIUS BERGER NIGERIA PLC, ALHAJI ZUBAIRU IBRAHIM BAYI, DELIVERING HIS SPEECH AT JULIUS BERGER’S LONG SERVICE AWARD CEREMONY 2021, LAST SATURDAY.
THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, JULIUS BERGER NIGERIA PLC, ALHAJI IBRAHIM ZUBAIRU BAYI, (MIDDLE); AND THE RECIPIENT OF 20 YEARS OF SERVICE AWARD, IBRAHIM ZAKARI AT THE LONG SERVICE AWARDS CEREMONY, 
IN ABUJA, LAST SATURDAY.
2021 LONG SERVICE AWARDS: JULIUS BERGER HONOURS 838 WORKERS FOR MERITORIOUS AND LOYAL SERVICE TO THE COMPANY
– Says Executive Director Administration, Alh. Zubairu Bayi
The Executive Director Administration of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi, has described the company’s human capital or workforce as the strong backbone upon which its great productivity and definitive strong performance is built. Bayi made the remarks at the 2021 Long service awards ceremony of the company which held in Abuja FCT. According to Bayi, the award ceremony is an annual event to recognize Julius Berger’s long-serving staff to show appreciation for the workers’ contribution towards the continued success and progress of the company. “It is our tradition in Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to appreciate and reward well- deserving staff. It remains a great pride to us how many staff we are proudly able to recognize each year.” He said 838 serving staff were honoured at the 2021 event for their “dutiful, loyal, dedicated and inspiring service to the company in their various professional callings and vocations.” Bayi emphasized that, “Their tenacity and can-do spirit have contributed to the progress of the company through the decades….This award event is in recognition of the commitment of our staff and also the reciprocal commitment of the company towards our workforce”.
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.
The director happily informed the workers that Julius Berger has invested into new equipment, acquired projects from both public and private clients, promoted 35 junior staff to senior staff cadre, elevated 362 members from one level to another, supported training and career development for staff in various fields, and has continued to focus on growing its business portfolio. Bayi also said the company has also acquired several top priority projects such as the ongoing Bodo-Bonny Road, the second Niger Bridge, Lagos-Shagamu Expressway, and the Abuja-Kano Road, which is the biggest and most challenging. All these projects are on course and making steady progress”, Bayi added. He further expressed his profound gratitude to the Federal Government for entrusting Julius Berger with these priority projects, saying that the future for the company is bright. He urged the staff not to rest on their oars, as their collective and continuing dedication will provide the company the needed stability and sustainable success in the years ahead.
The awardees ranged from staff who served the company for 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40+ years and above and have written their names in the annals of the company. According to Bayi, the recipients are to receive various prizes, in accordance with stipulations in the company’s internal conditions of service. The company, Bayi said, acknowledges its workers for their productive and highly valued commitment, professional zeal, and masterly contributions to the company’s historical development and emergence as Nigeria’s leading and preferred engineering construction brand.
Alhaji Bayi also used the occasion to felicitate with the company’s outgoing Financial Director, Mr. Martin Brack. He described Brack as a meticulous and hardworking director who has spent a considerable part of his industrious life contributing his best to the company’s progress. Bayi commended the outgoing Financial Director for understanding and appreciating the very essence and value of a peaceful, cordial and healthy industrial climate, brought about by the synergy and cooperation between the Management and the workers. “I wish to thank you immensely on behalf of the entire Nigerian staff, for your contribution to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc and wish you a happy and fulfilling life as you continue in your new role as Chief Financial Officer at Julius Berger International in Germany”, said Bayi.
Alhaji Bayi also used the opportunity of the Long service award ceremony to announce a warm welcome to Christian Hausemann, the successor to Martin Brack as the company’s new Financial Director. Bayi described the in-coming Financial Director as a well-groomed and highly motivated individual, a wonderful Julius Berger veteran and financial management expert. According to the Director of Administration, Hausemann’s historical commitment to the ideals and goals of Julius Berger are legendary. “Your new role is definitely not an easy assignment or Job; but I have no doubt that, given your training and experience in handling and running affairs in our Company, that you are up to the task”, said Bayi.