News From Nigeria
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
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.
A group, Delta Women Vanguard, on Sunday described the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Senatorial Candidate in Kogi Central, Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, as the defender of the people.
‘’What the time demands is a woman with strength, who by practical, creative and visionary leadership can embark on a new beginning; a woman with a sense of mission in a rescue operation; a woman of vision and focus; a woman with courage to face difficulties. Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is dedicated to the uplifting of the Ebira man, woman and youth’’
The group also declared its readiness to host the PDP, Kogi Central flag bearer in Warri on Saturday, November 19, 2022.
A statement issued in Warri urged Kogi Central voters to reject narrow minded, untrustworthy, manipulative, selfish and unpatriotic candidates.
‘’Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is polished, beloved by the wonderful people of Kogi State and her name is etched in their minds. We are determined to convince Kogi Central people. We shall urge the voters to reject Kogi APC in 2023’’
DWV National Publicity Secretary, Mrs. Esther Umukoro in the statement in Warri, applauded Akpoti-Uduaghan for raising a lot of women and youths to a higher level of existence and sacrificing to enable them to enjoy good life.
‘’We will make Kogi Central voters be aware of the issues involved in the 2023 senatorial election and the advantage they stand to gain by voting for PDP. We will explain her ideals and priorities and how best to solve the problems of Kogi Central. We will then tell why they have to vote for Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’’
The statement underscored the desire of the good people of Kogi Central to break away from the stranglehold of Governor Yahaya Bello and his cronies.
‘’They will know who has a better grasp of the issues at hand and who is better equipped to solve them. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is not a typical Nigerian politician who speaks from both sides of the mouth’’
The statement also emphasized Akpoti Uduaghan’s benevolence, wisdom, charm, competence, roles played at critical points in the development of Kogi Central and identification with public worthy causes.
‘’Kogi Central is behind in development requirements. Kogi APC will no longer be allowed to pollute the stream from which the people drink’’
The group accused those parading as Concerned Delta Women of advertising ignorance and prejudicing the minds of people by deliberate lies and perversion of the truth.
‘’It is foolish talk and sheer nonsense. These renegades do not have the rectitude to speak on marriage, development and the future of Kogi Central’’.
‘’No crumbs, however tempting, should distract Kogi Central voters from ensuring the electoral victory of Akpoti-Uduaghan in 2023’’ the statement added.
A law firm, Indemnity Partners, has dissociated itself from a document in respect of Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan.
‘’Our attention has been drawn to a letter trending on social media purporting to have been issued from our law firm in respect of our client and her husband’’.
‘The law firm said in a statement signed by B. C. Igwilo SAN that the document was inauthentic and of dubious origin.
‘’ That letter is inauthentic and of dubious origin’’.
The firm urged the discerning public to ignore the document in circulation in its entirety.
‘’We categorically distance ourselves from the purported letter and its alleged contents’’ the statement added.
Below is the full text of the disclaimer
INDEMNITY PARTNERS
LEGAL PRACTITIONERS, NOTARIES PUBLIC
4th November 2022
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
DISCLAIMER
We are solicitors for Mrs Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Our attention has been drawn to a letter trending on social media purporting to have been issued from our law firm in respect of our client and her husband.
We categorically distance ourselves from the purported letter and its alleged contents.
That letter is inauthentic and of dubious origin.
Accordingly, we urge the discerning public to ignore it in its entirety.
Indemnity Partners
EMAIL EDITOR: henryebi@yahoo.com
CALL EDITOR: 08036977194
PDP MUST RESOLVE ITS CRISIS TO WIN 2023 ELECTION-WIKE
*Calls for dredging of River Benue and River Niger to end sufferings of Nigerians
Rivers State governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has again urged the national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to do the right thing, if the party must win the presidential election in 2023.
The right thing, Governor Wike insisted, is the resignation of Senator Iyorchia Ayu as PDP national chairman, in order for a southerner to occupy the seat within the principle of equity, fairness and justice.
Governor Wike restated his position during a live interactive media chat in Port Harcourt on Friday.
He emphasised that any leader of a group who causes crisis within the group that he leads, truly lacks the requisite skills to navigate affairs of such group.
“This is the time to show leadership skill on the part of those who are leaders of the party. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is the presidential candidate. He is the one who feels the pain.”
Governor Wike made reference to the party’s constitution that spells it out in Section 7 (3) (c) that that all political and elective positions must be zoned.
He wondered why it is now so difficult for Senator Ayu to respect the constitution or even keep to his promise and quit the office if a northern is elected as PDP standard bearer.
“We have not held the presidential primary before the national chairman of the party said if the presidential candidate emerges from his area, he will quit.”
Governor Wike also accused Senator Ayu of collecting one hundred million Naira, first from a certain governor to renovate the party’s democratic institution, and later went to PDP National Working Committee (NWC) to collect exact amount for the same purpose. Governor Wike dares Senator Ayu to deny it.
“In fact, let me also tell you, Ayu collected N100million naira from a governor that he was going to renovate our democratic institution and then he went back to the PDP NWC and took the same N100million naira for doing the same work.”
He further added, “What kind of system is that? I am telling you all these are facts. Let him (Ayu) say no first and I will tell you (those he collected money from).”
The Rivers State governor pointed to the importance of the mission of rescuing Nigeria expected of the PDP by Nigerians. But the mission, he said required a leader with proven integrity to lead the party.
“For God’s sake, knowing that you are in a party that wants to take over the reign of governance in the country, we know Nigerians know the problems confronting the country.
“If a leader does not have integrity, forget it. We need a man who will tell his people this; a man who will be firm, a man who will be courageous to do those things that even people find it difficult to do.
“You are presenting a man who is the head of the party, the chairman of the party, who has no integrity to lead the campaign to take over the reigns of governance.”
Governor Wike explained that the chairmanship position of the party should go to the south before the elections. According, if Alhaji Atiku Abubakar wins in February presidential election, the hawks around him won’t wait until May to take major decisions.
“Who is there to decide for the South? Why will you tell me until when you finish election that’s when a southerner will emerge as chairman.”
Governor Wike described as untrue the report in the media that some former PDP governors, including Dr Peter Odili, were sent to him to resolve the crisis in the party.
Speaking further, Governor Wike decried the perennial flooding experienced in parts of the country as a result of lack of initiative on the part of the federal government to dredge the River Benue and River Niger respectively.
Governor Wike asserted that one way of solving the ravaging yearly flooding situation, is to pay attention to the sources of water flow and end the suffering of Nigerians who become impacted every year.
“I asked what is this problem that we can’t dredge River Benue and River Niger? Each time I fly over Benue, the sight makes me cry. We won’t have had so much problem to this extent if we dredge them
“But the politics, I do not know. Who is interested for River Benue, River Niger not to be dredged, and that has caused so much hardship for our people.
“How can government from time refused to dredge the rivers and I heard, sometime, that they awarded the Calabar River. What happened, where is the money?”
Governor Wike imagined why the federal government will award an all important contract like the dredging of Calabar River and will not demand its execution, even when communities continue to suffer from such negligence.
Governor Wike also informed that the taskforce on flood set up in the State is directly supervised by him to ensure that the impacted victims directly benefits from the relief materials that they would eventually require.
The governor dismissed insinuation that Sir Celestine Omehia was derecognised as ex-State Governor of Rivers State by the State lawmakers because he is supporting Atiku. According to him, the lawmakers took their decision based on Supreme Court judgment that sacked him.
Governor Wike dismissed claim by the management of Africa Independent Television (AIT) that the company acquired the land from the State government.
According to him, when the State Assembly started deliberation of the land, AIT until date failed to provide any letter of allocation to claim ownership of the land that was supposed to house its regional office in Port Harcourt.
Governor Wike also mentioned that he desired to construct a ring road that is estimated to cost N70B. The road, he said is planned to start from Okrika Town axis through Eleme to the Port Harcourt International Airport and terminate at Choba town.
He stated that since the tenure of his administration will end in May 2023, he will recommend to the incoming administration to execute the project because of its importance.
The Rivers State governor said the appointment of fifty thousand Special Assistants by him has provided jobs opportunity for the affected persons.
October 14, 2022
October 16, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Undeterred by Plots to Disrupt its Progammes
…To Hold Presidential Rally in Kaduna Tomorrow, Monday Oct.17
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) under the Atiku/Okowa Presidential ticket and the Sen. Iyorchia Ayu leadership is undeterred by the exposed plots by certain anti-democratic forces who are uncomfortable and unhappy with the success of the on-going reconciliation efforts, stability and popularity of the Party, to cause tension and disrupt the Party’s programmes in Kaduna State.
Our Party’s position is predicated on information at our disposal of how these anti-party elements who are not happy with the campaign successes achieved by the National Chairman, Sen. Iyorchia Ayu and other Party leaders, have concluded plots to orchestrate tension and create an impression of crisis within the PDP by recruiting thugs to protest and disrupt scheduled programmes of the PDP in Kaduna State, tomorrow, Monday, October 17, 2022.
The PDP has information of how these individuals, who were frustrated by the huge success of the PDP Presidential Campaign Flag-Off in Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State capital last Monday, are bent on creating a situation to discredit the PDP Presidential Campaign Rally scheduled for tomorrow in Kaduna State.
These anti-party interests plot to stage a protest tomorrow in Kaduna State with unfounded allegations, claims and selfish demands aimed to embarrass the National Chairman as well as discredit the integrity and decisions of top organs of the Party including the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the Board of Trustees (BoT).
For the avoidance of doubt, the PDP is undeterred and standing shoulder to shoulder with the good people of Kaduna State who are set for our Presidential Campaign Rally, which will hold peacefully in Kaduna State on Monday, October 17, 2022.
Our Party will never be distracted from its mission to Rescue, Rebuild and Redirect our nation from the misrule of the All Progressives Congress (APC); the reason Nigerians are rallying with Atiku Abubakar and the PDP.
The PDP salutes and appreciates the people of Kaduna State for the overwhelming reception that they have accorded our Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, his running mate, Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa and other Party leaders who have been in Kaduna State in the past two days ahead of Monday’s Presidential Campaign Rally.
Our Party implores all members, our teeming supporters and the public to be at alert, note and resist these unpatriotic elements whose heinous plots has the capacity to cause a breakdown of Law and Order, undermine our democratic processes and derail the smooth conduct of the 2023 general elections.
We hereby call on security agencies to immediately set in motion machinery to forestall any attempt by anybody or group to disrupt the programmes of our Party particularly given the consequential effect of such on our democratic process and our nation’s corporate existence.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PRESS RELEASE
EKITI: SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES NEW GOVERNOR, OYEBANJI, DEPUTY
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has congratulated the newly sworn-in Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, describing his assumption into office as blessing for the people of the State.
He also congratulated the new Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, and urged the people of Ekiti State to support the new governor and his deputy for continuous growth and development of the State.
Governor Sanwo-Olu in a statement issued on Sunday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described Oyebanji and Afuye’s landslide victory during the June 18 governorship election and their swearing-in as Ekiti State Governor and Deputy Governor as a testament to the good work the All Progressives Congress, APC-led government has done in the State.
Sanwo-Olu, who attended the swearing-in ceremony, along with the Presidential candidate of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and some other State Governors at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti, urged Governor Oyebanji to continue the good work of his predecessor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi.
The Lagos State governor also applauded ex-Governor Kayode Fayemi for his commitment and selfless service to Ekiti State and her people, saying that Fayemi did his best to transform and develop the Fountain of Knowledge State during his tenure.
He said the people of Ekiti and South-West, as well as Nigerians, will continue to remember the contributions of Fayemi to governance and politics as the Governor of Ekiti and the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF).
“I congratulate Governor Biodun Oyebanji and his deputy, Mrs. Monisade Afuye on their swearing-in as the Governor and Deputy Governor of Ekiti State following their victory in the June 18 gubernatorial election in the State. I also rejoice with their families, friends, associates, APC members, and the people of Ekiti State on today’s swearing-in ceremony.
“Governor Oyebanji is the right choice by the people of Ekiti State. I have no doubt that based on his antecedents and experience in the private and public sectors; he will not disappoint the people of Ekiti State, who elected him as their governor.
“As an active participant in Ekiti State politics and governance, having served with two former governors, I believe Governor Oyebanji will continue the people-oriented programmes and good governance of his predecessor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, who served passionately and delivered dividends of democracy to the people of Ekiti State in different sectors.”
“Without any iota of doubt, Governor Fayemi has set a good template of good governance for his successor. I will urge Governor Oyebanji to follow the path of good governance set by Dr. Fayemi.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also applauded Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi, for being a worthy and supportive partner to Governor Fayemi during their tenure in office.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
16 OCTOBER 2022
Publish names of perpetrators of oil theft or face legal action, SERAP tells Buhari
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to “promptly set up a presidential panel of enquiry to thoroughly, impartially, and transparently investigate the operations of illegal oil pipelines from 2001 to date, and to widely publish the names of anyone suspected to be involved.”
SERAP urged him to “ensure the prosecution by appropriate anti-corruption agencies of anyone suspected to be responsible for the plundering of the country’s oil wealth and the full recovery of any proceeds of crime.”
SERAP also urged him to “promptly authorise the investigation of reports of the destruction of an oil bunkering vessel by security agencies and to ensure that suspected owners of the vessel are identified, named and brought to justice.”
SERAP’s letter followed the recent reports that two illegal pipelines used to steal the country’s oil wealth from Forcados Terminal, and connected to the 48-inch Trans Forcados Export Trunk line, have been uncovered.
In the open letter dated 15 October 2022 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “Poor and socio-economically vulnerable Nigerians have continued to pay the price for the stealing of the country’s oil wealth apparently by both state and non-state actors.”
SERAP said, “Your government has a legal obligation to ensure that the country’s oil wealth is used solely for the benefit of the Nigerian people, and that the wealth does not end up in private pockets, for the sake of the present and future generations.
The letter, read in part: “Despite the country’s substantial oil wealth, successive governments have largely squandered the opportunity to use the wealth to improve the lives and well-being of ordinary Nigerians. This is a clear violation of the government’s anti-corruption and human rights obligations.”
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 14 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”
“SERAP urges you to consider referring the reports to the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court [ICC] to investigate whether the allegations of oil theft in the country amount to crimes against humanity within the jurisdiction of the ICC, and to surrender all suspected perpetrators for trial by the ICC.”
“SERAP is concerned that the illegal pipelines have been operated for many years without notice, implying a flagrant violation of constitutional and international obligations to ensure the proper, effective and efficient management of the country’s wealth and natural resources.”
“It is in the public interest to promptly investigate the discovery of the illegal pipelines, publish the names of those suspected to be involved, and ensure that they are brought to justice, and that any proceeds of crime are fully recovered.”
“Taking these steps would advance the right of Nigerians to restitution, compensation and guarantee of non-repetition and improve public confidence in the fight against corruption and related crimes, especially in the oil sector.”
“As the President and Minister of Petroleum Resources, you and your government have a legal responsibility to ensure accountability for these human rights crimes, and end the culture of impunity, which is fuelling the stealing of the country’s oil wealth”.
“The proposed presidential panel of enquiry should be headed by a retired justice of the Supreme Court or Court of Appeal, and its members should include people with proven professional record and of the highest integrity that can act impartially, independently, and transparently.”
“The plundering of the country’s oil wealth has resulted in the downward trend in revenue and increasing level of borrowing, with reports of a projected N11.30 trillion deficit budget for 2023.”
“SERAP is concerned that the unaddressed plundering of the country’s oil wealth has for many years contributed to shrinking revenue, chronic underfunding of public goods and services such as education, health, and access to safe drinking water, recurring budget deficits, growing level of borrowing, and unsustainable debt profile.”
“According to our information, security agencies recently reportedly uncovered an illegal pipeline used to steal the country’s oil wealth for nine years from Forcados Terminal.”
“Another illegal pipeline connected to the 48-inch Trans Forcados Export Trunk line, at the rear of a military security post in Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State has reportedly been discovered.”
“The discovery of the second illegal pipeline followed the recent destruction by security agents of a vessel allegedly used for crude oil theft off the Niger Delta creeks. About 58 illegal oil points have reportedly so far been discovered.”
“Section 15 subsection (5) of the Constitution requires your government to abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.”
“The UN Convention against Corruption and the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption to which Nigeria is a state party obligate your government to effectively prevent and investigate acts of corruption and hold public officials and non-state actors to account for any violations.”
“Specifically, article 26 of the UN convention requires your government to ensure “effective, proportionate and dissuasive sanctions” including criminal and non-criminal sanctions, in cases of grand corruption.”
“Article 26 complements the more general requirement of article 30, paragraph 1, that sanctions must take into account the gravity of the corruption allegations.”
“According to a Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) audit report, 160 million barrels of crude oil valued at $13.7 billion, was stolen in four years (2009-2012). There is also report of $17 billion debt of under-declared crude oil lifted by some international oil companies (IOCs) between 2011 and 2014.”
“According to reports, Nigeria has seen increased oil theft in recent years. The country loses 470,000 barrels of crude oil monthly amounting to $700 million to oil theft.”
“The country has reportedly lost $10 billion to crude oil theft in seven months, which is stated to be more than 50 per cent of Nigeria’s external reserves. The Chatham House, a think-tank based in the United Kingdom has noted that oil theft in Nigeria is ‘on an industrial scale.’”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
16/10/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
LAGOS SET AGOG FOR ASA FESTIVAL
Writers and scholars of international repute will be addressing theatre art practitioners in Nigeria on Thursday, November 9 as Black Edge Production commences the 2022 ASA Festival.
A statement issued in Lagos on Monday by Black Edge Artistic Director, Babatunde Abideen, said the four- day programme would take place from Wednesday, November 9 to Saturday, November 12, 2022 at the National Theatre, Iganmu.
‘’The 2022 ASA workshop will address the challenges in the theatre art business in Nigeria, identity of Yoruba society and perceived traditional values of Yoruba people.
According to the statement, the 2022 festival would focus on the role of the theatre practitioner in the cultural, political and economic development of Nigeria.
‘The ASA Festival is typically a mixed bag of teaching, recitations in Yoruba, cultural displays of traditional dances and modes of dressing. It also brings writers, actors, theatre directors, movie producers, dancers and people of different cultural backgrounds to interact together’ the statement said.
Aside from the opportunity by the theatre practitioners to share experiences, improve business and management skills, the statement said the 2022 ASA festival designed to encourage theatre arts practitioners in pursuit of excellence and give a platform for life stage performances of Yoruba and English troupes, exhibitions and art shows.
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‘It will also teach the participants a lot,’ he said.
The 5th ASA festival will be a wonderful, great programme for everyone to enjoy, it’s something that’s exciting and people who are coming to Lagos will be in for a surprise’ the statement added.
Key families in Okere-Urhobo on Monday took steps to foil the divisive and land grabbing plan of one Louis Okumagba.
They also urged the good people of Delta State and the general public to completely discountenance the false publication by Louis Okumagba.
‘’Louis Okumagba does not represent the interests of the families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu of Okere-Urhobo’’
Heads and members of the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo of Warri South spoke on prejudices of some local and foreign publishers on the land opposite Don Domingo College, Warri Monday morning.
Chief Gideon Okumagba, a representative of the three families, read the statement of the royal families aloud to newsmen.
The families accused Louis Okumagba of distortion and inciting fear in Delta State.
‘’The families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu collectively owned landed properties in Warri’’
The Okere-Urhobo leaders said the land was acquired by the defunct Bendel State Government.
‘’The families are represented by Heads of the Kindred family and are the original owners of the land until it was acquired by the then Bendel State Government. The families currently have their administrative office at No 60 Okumagba Avenue Warri where they meet frequently to deal with issues. on family lands and other related family matters’’
They offered an itemized and caustic indictment of Louis Okumagba’s behavior in Warri South.
‘’As one of the elders in the family, specifically as related to the false claims by Louis Okumagba, I am well abreast of the issues raised in that publication. The good people of Warri are not in any war or in a battle over the landed property opposite Don Domingo College, Warri, and it is very shameful that the said Louis is trying to incite tribal/ethnic battle in that publication’’.
They promised to file a libel suit against individuals and organizations publishing Louis Okumagba’s false narrative.
‘’It is not true that the Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, used officials of the Delta State Government to intimidate and arrest Louis Okumagba. To be candid, it was Chief Gideon Okumagba that reported his criminal extortion of money from developers to the Police Area Commander Office in Warri’’.
The statement emphasized how the matter was dragged to the office of the Inspector General of Police Abuja.
‘’While the case was being deliberated on in Abuja, Louis Okumagba jumped bail and hurriedly filed a fundamental Human Rights Application against me, the Inspector General of Police and Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan at Warri High Court just to shield himself from being prosecuted for his criminal act. I equally filed a Counter application in that case and at the end the Judgment was resolved in my favour while his Fundamental Human Rights Application was dismissed with cost. Louis has been a fugitive. Since that judgment, he has not been seen within Warri’’.
Particularly, the families accused Louis Okumagba of trying to sow discord amongst Deltans through falsehood.
‘’Louis Okumagba claimed that he has been in the forefront of the land in dispute is false and misrepresentation of facts. And the alleged grabbing of over 30 hectares of land by the Okowa Government led by High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is equally false. The land was acquired by the then Bendel state for public purposes. The Delta State government has since done the needful by releasing/returning parts of the land to the Olodi, Oki and lghogbadu families who are the rightful owners. 4.6 hectares of land was released to the family on the 26 day of June 1988 and another part of the unused land was released to the Olodi,. Oki and 1ghogbadu families on the 14 of January 2000. Also, the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families have an agreement with the Government of Delta State over the remaining parts of the land’’
The families told news men there was zero evidence for Louis Okumagba claims of land grabbing.
‘To be more specific, the remaining portion of the land was released to Seriviri Nigeria Limited wherein Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is one of the directors of that company and the said company also have an agreement with the families and half of the land was released to the families. Indeed, the three families benefited from the land including Louis Okumagba ’’.
They scolded Louis Okumagba for rendering a real disservice.
‘’There was never any consultation by Louis Okumagba with the well-known families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu before that Publication was made by him. It’s a futile attempt to incite the Urhobo and Itsekiri into a needless bickering. There is no dispute as far as the land in this narrative is concerned. The said Louis should avail himself to enable the police conclude their investigation in the crime levied against him. The land in question belongs to the Olodi, Oki and lghogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo and he should stop spreading false claims and division among the families and tribes in Delta State. If there are disputes in any land owned by these families, it is the heads and members of the family who will collectively decide to institute an action in court’’,
Last week, the families condemned the role of Chief Louis Okumagba in the 30 plots released to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State.
They described it as a negative development and a minus for peace and development in Delta State.
In a letter titled: ‘’Attempt / efforts to cause communal war, fanning embers of communal dispute, conduct likely to cause breach of peace and criminal defamation of characters of our clients; Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State, all committed by Mr. Louis Okumagba – a call to investigate the allegation herein, the families urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good office to investigate allegations against Louis Okumagba, so as to prevent a monumental communal war/crisis between Itsekiri and the Urhobo of Okere Urhobo Kingdom.
’’God forbid a repetition of what happened in 1997/98 in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom’’
Counsel to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo Kingdom, L O. Egboyi & CO said in the 1974/76, the then government acquired a part or portion of our client’s land for public purpose.
‘’In 2017, the Delta State government gave part of this acquired land to Messrs. Seriviri Nig. Ltd. for the purpose of partnership (Leisure Park) with the state government, covered by a certificate of Occupancy. Considering the size of the land given to Seriviri Nig. Ltd, for the partnership, it could not utilize the entire land. So, it entered into agreement with our client family, wherein, it released 30 plots thereof back to the family – our clients’’
The Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri are made up of the popular Okumagba family of Warri, Okere- Urhobo kingdom.
‘’Our clients are the owners of all the land in the entire Okere-Urhobo kingdom Warri. Certain Mr. Louis Okumagba who is the black sheep of the family started to foment trouble, disturbing and threatening Seriviri Nig. Ltd, with thugs and dangerous weapons which led to his arrest in 2019 to the Police Force Headquarters’, Abuja. After being granted bail by the police, the suspect (Mr. Louis Okumagba) rushed to file a fundamental Human Rights action against the Police, at the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri. The action stalled the prosecution of the suspect (Mr. Louis) by the Police’’.
The families said the suit of the suspect against the Police was dismissed by the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri, with a specific order of the Court directing the police to arrest and prosecute the suspect (Mr Louis Okumagba).
‘’While the Police were looking for the suspect for arrest and prosecution as directed by the Court, the same suspect went to social media (Opera news) to declare that “there will be looming danger of war/crisis between the Itsekiri and Urhobos”, thereby inciting, promoting and instigating communal war between the two peaceful co-existing communities of Itsekiri and Urhobo’’.
This incitement, according to the families, created several apprehensions in the minds of locals, which has affected the hitherto peace that reigned and pervaded the two communities.
‘’Furthermore, the suspect posted on the same social media that some named members of our clients namely, Chief Gideon Okumagba, Stanley Oki, Chief Victor Okumagba, Engr. Prince Ojuvwu Okumagba and others, sent assassins to his house to kill him, but he escaped by the whiskers. He confirmed that he had a one-on-one confrontation with the assassins, who confirmed the named members of our clients above, as the people who commissioned them to eliminate him’’.
The legal practitioners described Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu as bunch of responsible families
‘’Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families are known throughout Nigeria for their peaceful disposition. The named individuals are distinguished and respected members of the Okumagba family and the Nigeria Society. Our clients therefore take the allegation of hiring assassins by its members very seriously, especially in this era of Security challenges in the country’’.
The families also deplored the actions of Louis Okumagba and urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good offices to investigate the allegations and anyone found culpable to be brought to book.
‘’So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive. We assure you of our client’s co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition’’.
PRESS RELEASE
TINUBU’S LEADERSHIP ANTECEDENT VERIFIABLE, MARKETABLE – SANWO-OLU
…Advocacy Group Holds Talks, Targets Grassroots Voters For APC Victory In Lagos
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has endorsed a grassroots movement targeting two million votes in the State for the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming 2023 general elections.
Sanwo-Olu personally led members of his cabinet, including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, to a conference organised by Asiwaju Grassroots Talk (AGT), where the Governor drummed support for group’s political advocacy and its voter mobilisation strategy across local communities in Lagos.
The event with the theme: “Political Evangelism: Raising Active Voters Above 50 Percent”, was held at 10 Degrees Event Centre in Oregun, Ikeja, and had 5,000 mobilisers working with the group in attendance.
The group is mobilising for the electoral victory of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the presidential polls, while also working with APC for the continuity of progressive government in Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu said his endorsement of the AGT advocacy project stemmed from the proven ability of the group to influence and mobilise real voters, noting that AGT had a strong presence across communities in Lagos.
The Governor said Tinubu remained the most qualified and marketable candidate for the top job, pointing out that the APC’s presidential standard bearer possessed verifiable records in good governance and service delivery, which canvassers could use to sell him to voters.
He said: “We are ready to take the gospel out to the electorate and canvass for their support for the Tinubu presidency. Asiwaju has verifiable track records in good governance and service delivery, which canvassers can use to engage and win the support of potential voters. We must talk about the transformative leadership, progressive ideals and vision possessed by Asiwaju to take this country to another level of meaningful development.
“Tinubu is coming to bring hope, bring about change that will translate to real prosperity. He is coming to address the challenges facing the youth, women and the vulnerable in our country. His programmes will touch the lives of traders, artisans and those in search of legitimate means of livelihood. It is because of our strong belief in Asiwaju’s leadership that we are all coming together to endorse this grassroots movement to ensure Lagos is delivered for APC.
“With Tinubu in charge of the country, not only would Lagos get due attention, the Southwest and the entire nation would feel the impact of his progressive vision. The result of his leadership in Lagos is for everyone to see. There is no better candidate to lead the country from next year than Tinubu. All hands must be on deck to work and achieve this objective; we must show the opposition parties how we are better than them on election day.”
Sanwo-Olu dismissed the notion that Tinubu’s candidacy was to advance ethnic agenda, stressing that the APC presidential candidate belonged to the rank of the most detribalised Nigerians.
The Governor said the fulfillment of his promises to the electorate in Lagos would make the residents vote for continuity in the State, noting that his Government touched all parts of the State in projects and service delivery.
He urged AGT members not to be intimidated by the propaganda of the opposition in the course of engaging voters at the community level. He charged them to show commitment to deliver their pledge to the party.
“This movement should not be limited to the 5,000 mobilisers who are gathered for this event. You must show the commitment to deliver the highest votes which you have pledged. I believe you have the spread and ability to achieve it,” Sanwo-Olu said.
AGT Director-General, Dr. AbdulHakeem Tugbobo, said the group was formed in 2018 to drive community advocacy and educate voters at the grassroots level about Tinubu’s vision and political philosophy.
He said the group aligned itself with the progressive ideals of APC, given various development goals achieved by the party, especially in Lagos.
He said: “We are ready to complement the party’s campaign council and get many people to join the Tinubu-Shettima ticket and make it realisable. We have our tentacles spread across the State and we are targeting the 4,156 CDAs in Lagos to realise 2,000,000 votes from farmers, artisans and others for Tinubu to become the president.”
Lagos APC chairman, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, hailed members of the group for the initiative, saying the party faced an “important election” that would further strengthen it to deliver more dividends of good governance to Lagosians and Nigerians.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
06 OCTOBER 2022
PRESS RELEASE
WHY COWLSO IS INVESTING IN EDUCATION, WELFARE OF THE VULNERABLE, BY SANWO-OLU
…Says All Is Set For 22nd National Women’s Conference
…Aisha Buhari, Wike, Ganduje, Zulum, Others To Grace 2022 NWC
Lagos State First Lady and Chairman of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), Dr Ibjioke Sanwo-Olu on Thursday explained the rationale behind the massive investment of the Committee in education and welfare of the vulnerable.
Sanwo-Olu, who spoke at a Press Conference held at Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja to unveil activities for the 22nd National Women’s Conference (NWC) of COWLSO, said as a community-based gender organization, the Committee was established primarily to complement efforts of government officials in bringing about exponential development and generally improving the welfare of Lagosians.
According to her, “Since we came on board, we have worked in line with the founding vision of COWLSO to invest in the education of our children. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, we donated 5,000 transistor radios to support the education of children in the riverine communities.
“The donation was part of efforts to ensure that no child is left behind in the access to quality education in the state on account of the challenges thrown up by the pandemic, while we equally factored in electricity challenges as the radios are such that can function with batteries.
“We have equally invested in the welfare of vulnerable children and elders, particularly those in orphanages and elderly care homes across the five administrative divisions of the state namely Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island and Epe.
“As we speak, we are also constructing a senior secondary school in Ogombo Community, Ajah in collaboration with the Lagos State Special Committee on Rehabilitation of Public Schools (SCRPS). The school is the first public school with a ramp specifically designed to facilitate the ease of movement of physically challenged students within the school.”
She said COWLSO also holds quarterly seminars for market men and women on sanitation, security and safety, among other projects.
Speaking on activities lined up for the 2022 COWLSO NWC, the First Lady said as a purpose-driven international conference through which women are positively galvanized, the event will hold from October 18 to 20, 2022 at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, with the theme: “Spring Forth, Stand Out.”
Explaining the reason for the theme, she said: “In 2019 when we came on board, our theme was: “UNLEARN, LEARN AND RELEARN: 21ST CENTURY WOMEN’S T.H.E.M.E.S PERSPECTIVES/APPROACH.” In 2020, we discussed “EXPLORING THE POSSIBILITIES IN A NEW WORLD”. In 2021, our theme was “AWAKE!”, while this year, our theme is: “Spring Forth, Stand Out.”
“Haven extensively dealt with issues around awakening last year, what naturally follows an awakening is to emerge into something more beautiful and into something better. You emerge into a better version of yourself and keep pushing forward to make a positive difference. This is the message we are passing across to women this year.”
Aside from the main theme, other topics to be extensively discussed by seasoned facilitators and speakers, according to the First Lady, are: “Our Health: A Challenge and a call to reference; Mastering Performance Parenting in a Gen-z World; Insecurity: A threat to National Development; My Civic Responsibility: My Power; Smart Investment Options for the Forward Thinking Woman; Roles of women in Educational Development in Nigeria; Overcoming Adversity with Confidence; and Utilizing Technology to Manage Business and Market Changes,” among others.
“We have made adequate preparations to ensure that we have more plenary sessions this year to extensively deliberate on the highlighted topics and associated issues, while on Day 3 of the Conference, there will be a Recap and Communiqué to state the position of COWLSO on the Conference and developments in the nation, particularly as regarding women and children,” she said.
On the expected guests, she said Nigeria’s First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Aisha Muhammadu Buhari will serve as the Mother of the day and would declare the Conference Open, while His Excellency, Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State is the Special Guest of Honour at the Opening Ceremony.
She added that the Special Guest of Honour for the Gala Night is His Excellency, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State, while the Special Guest of Honour at the Closing Ceremony is His Excellency, Prof. Babagana Zulum, Governor of Borno State.
OLUBUKONLA NWONAH
DEPUTY DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS
OFFICE OF LAGOS STATE FIRST LADY
OCTOBER 6, 2022
PARAMOUNT AFRICA ANNOUNCES BET AFRICA CHANNEL NOW PERMANENTLY AVAILABLE TO DSTV FAMILY VIEWERS
THE HOME OF BLACK EXCELLENCE COMES TO DSTV FAMILY VIEWERS
As of 7 October 2022, Paramount Africa’s channel brand, BET Africa will be permanently available to all DStv Family viewers. This follows an initial announcement by the business, informing audiences that BET Africa (channel 129) would only be available to DStv Family viewers during the DStv open window, which commenced on 26 September 2022.
The move is a testament to Paramount Africa adhering to audience demands for new, relatable content that resonates with audiences and speaks to the impact and global channel currency of the BET brand.
In addition, the decision also implies that Paramount Africa will now be able to continue to execute its commitment to providing access to relevant stories and extending the authentic storytelling mantra by providing exclusive premium local and international content.
“As the home of black excellence, the BET Africa channel is synonymous with showcasing the best African and African American stories. We are excited to be extending our audience reach as this means the stories will reach new and more viewers. This is not only good news for viewers but for the black entertainment industry as well, putting our work in the spotlight and growing our industry.” said Monde Twala, Senior Vice President and General Manager Paramount Africa and Peer Lead, BET International.
“MultiChoice has embraced ‘Africa to the world’ and ‘the world to Africa’ as a business philosophy, as such we strive to continually review our packages so as to continually curate a quality viewing experience of both quality local and international and content. We are proud to expand the number of our customers that can enjoy the great BET experience and look forward to the continuation of a great partnership between the Paramount team and the MultiChoice Group.” said Georginah Machiridza, Executive Head: Content Strategy & 3rd Party Channels at MultiChoice Group.
BET Africa is the leading provider of black entertainment on the globe and provides a plethora of diverse programmes, including reality, entertainment, docu-series, and recently launched weekly original drama, Redemption, BET Africa’s biggest production of the year.
Viewers will also have access to a slate of new and exclusive international programming, including the premiere of the scripted anthology music series Tales: Every Song Has A Story, the new family drama Carl Weber’s: The Black Hampton, and the highly anticipated celebration of hip hop culture, the 2022 BET Hip Hop Awards, all premiering this October.
BET Africa will be available to DStv Family viewers from 7 October 2022 on channel 129 across all African countries excluding Ethiopia.
“One day, I am going to win the Grammys”, WhiteMoney shares on #WithChude
Reality TV star and Singer, WhiteMoney sits with Chude Jideonwo on #WithChude to discuss winning BBN in 2021, his music career and his ultimate goal of inevitably winning the Grammys.
On the show, WhiteMoney discussed not having a degree and how watching foreign films and observing people has helped him improve himself. “The biggest teacher any man can have is experience. The second teacher anyone can have is life, and the third is people, not even your parents. You need life, people and experience to become a better person in life. School won’t give you that experience you need. The school will give you theory; life will give you practical. For example, the highest educational qualification I have is O’ level, National Examination Council (NECO), that’s all I wrote. I didn’t write WAEC, JAMB or anything, but I still speak good English. I hate reading, but I love to listen, so I watch a lot of movies and emulate the way they talk and it impacted me. If I am to act the role of someone with an American accent, I have to watch five Black American movies. By the time I’m done with them, it automatically programs in my head against the shoot the next day. It helps fine-tune my English, and how to read contracts and sign them. I stopped at NECO because that was where the money stopped. It was my uncle who sent the 3,500 for the form. It was like two days before it closed that I got it, and I passed very well.
He also shared how poverty helps him remain tenacious in spite of rejections “The biggest motivation for me is poverty. If you love your situation and the way you are, then don’t work. But if you are tired of begging for handouts, not being recognized, or tired of Grammys. Poverty will motivate you to go out there and do something for yourself. So, poverty pushed me to audition four times in a row, and I won the fourth time.
On handling vicious feedback from the audience on his song, ‘Selense’, he shared, “it didn’t affect me like that, to be very honest. If you really watch the show, or if you ask people, they’ll tell you that WhiteMoney has zero impulses, my emotions are zero. If you talk, it hardly gets to me because once I do what I am satisfied with, any other thing is Jara. The thing is that the song that I drop if you give it to one of the A-List artists, it will get more buzz than what it is now, but of course, I was known for cooking in the Big Brother house, if it’s not cooking nobody wants to hear it. And I’m in a position where I have to constantly prove myself that I can do this and actually cook and be successful at both of them. But I won’t be the guy that gets old and regrets doing what he didn’t love. I’ll keep dropping it and I know that one day, White Money is going to get the Grammys.
“Even the big celebrities get criticized. In fact, the criticism I got for Selense, is not up to what I got for Na We We, the one I featured Zoro, but it helped the music to enter Apple’s chart in two days. Up till now, I am still promoting the song, and the comments on YouTube now are positive”, he added.
PRESS RELEASE
LAGOS STRIKES DEAL WITH PRIVATE FIRM TO MANAGE, OPERATE 32-METRIC TONS IMOTA RICE MILL
Ahead of the commissioning and operation of the 32-metric tons per hour Rice Mill in Imota, Ikorodu, Lagos State Government has handed over the management of the facility to private investor for efficient running.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday, presided over the ceremony where officials of the State Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with WACOT Rice Limited, a subsidiary of TGI Group.
The private firm is to provide operational support and manage the mill for nine months in the first instance through Joint Venture. The partnership is subject to renewal subsequently.
Sanwo-Olu is expected to hand over the rice mill in the next few months, after which it would commence commercial operation.
Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, said the privatisation of the rice mill’s operations was to ensure efficiency in the output of the facility, noting that the idea was initiated in 2019 when the State Government started the discussion with the firm.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture (Rice Initiative), Dr. Rotimi Fashola, said the Governor believed the mill would be optimised if it had a respectable private brand behind it and a technical support team that could provide intervention towards making the mill sustainable and functional to its capacity.
He said: “There is a need for the Government to put the rice mill on the path of sustainability and give it to a handling that will project quality. We sourced to have a partnership in rice production business that has a stable brand and eye for efficiency. This brings forth this Joint Venture and technical support agreement with WACOT.
“In Nigeria today, this is a brand consumers want to purchase in the market. We are delighted that we are able to bring WACOT to the table for technical support, managerial and quality assurance skills. The partnership agreement being signed today will be for nine months in the first instance and subsequently can be renewed. All i’s have been dotted and all t’s have been crossed.”
Group Managing Director of TGI Group, Rahul Savara, said Lagos Government found a great partner in the firm, pledging that the company would be deploying standard technology and services in managing the rice mill.
He said the private firm shared the Sanwo-Olu administration’s conviction to meet high demand for rice and make Lagos self-sufficient in rice production and processing.
“We are ready to work with Lagos State to make the facility run at its best. We will be deploying the best expertise, technique and training to make the Government proud of this investment,”
Savara said.
Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo, SAN, provided the legal instruments backing the MoU.
Other top management staff of TGI Group at the ceremony included the Group’s Executive Director, Jerome Shogbon, Company Secretary, Omowumi Fajemiroye, Head Corporate Communication, Rafiat Gawat, and representative of Banwo & Ighodalo Partner, Azeezah Muse-Sadiq.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
05 OCTOBER 2022
Access Bank to acquire 51% majority equity stake in Angola-based Finibanco S.A
Access Holdings Plc. has announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Access Bank Plc., has entered into a binding agreement with Montepio Holding SGPS S.A to acquire a 51% majority shareholding in Finibanco Angola S.A.
Finibanco Angola S.A. is a profitable, well-capitalised full-service commercial bank with over 20 branches and around US$300 million in total assets that has operated in Angola since 2008. The Transaction will be effected via the purchase of existing shares owned by Montepio, the holding company for Banco Montepio, one of Portugal’s well-established commercial banks.
The Angolan market is the 6th largest economy in Africa and the 7th largest country overall, with a vast and diversified natural resource base and a growing population representing a strong potential for the Bank’s growth aspiration.
The Transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals in Nigeria and Angola is expected to close in the first half of 2023 following fulfillment of customary conditions precedents. It will be consummated at 1.0x tangible book value less pre-agreed adjustments to be determined by a customary completion audit. Upon completion of the Transaction, the Bank is expected to increase its shareholding in Finibanco S.A and has reached certain conditional agreements in this regard.
Commenting on the transaction, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, Group Chief Executive Officer, Access Holdings Plc., said “At Access, our vision remains clear as ever and our determination to harness accretive opportunities within and outside Nigeria is our core strategic focus. Angola represents an opportunity for our shareholders to participate in what we believe will engender stronger value upside as Africa fully emerges. We remain committed to making these disciplined and well-structured investments towards creating a strong, holistic platform that will be competitive, diversified, and compelling for years to come.”
The Transaction furthers the Bank’s strategy to be Africa’s payment gateway to the world whilst working with other Africa-focused multilateral to provide robust and efficient payment platforms and ecosystems to serve the continent. The prospective operation is expected to contribute strongly to the Bank’s overall growth path and financial results over the long term.
PRESS RELEASE
LAGOS TEACHERS ENDORSE SANWO-OLU FOR SECOND TERM
…You’ve Made Teaching Rewarding For Us, ‘Cheerful’ Teachers Tell Governor
The event marking the World Teachers’ Day in Lagos State turned into a platform to share testimonies of the positive transformation recorded in State’s teaching service by the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Teachers cheerfully shared their experiences in the last three years, giving Sanwo-Olu a pass mark in raising the standards of education through investment in infrastructure and capacity building.
At the symposium organised by the Lagos wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) at the NUT Pavilion in Ikeja, Lagos teachers unanimously threw their weight behind Sanwo-Olu, endorsing the Governor’s re-election bid.
Comrade Hassan Akintoye, NUT Lagos chairman, who spoke on behalf of the teachers, said the Sanwo-Olu administration prioritised teachers’ welfare and committed unprecedented investment in education and teaching.
Akintoye said not only had the teaching environment been made more conducive for teachers, he noted that there had also been improvement in the performance of pupils in national examinations.
The NUT chief said the Governor met and fulfilled majority of demands of the teachers without any confrontation, thereby limiting the prospect of disagreement between NUT and the Government.
Lagos, he said, pioneered the creation of the Permanent Secretary/Tutor General position, which is the apex cadre in teaching career, and designated six slots for teachers across the six Education Districts in the State.
Akintoye added that Sanwo-Olu’s approval of career harmonisation in teaching service placed thousands of Lagos teachers on grade Level 17 – the highest level. This, he said, made Lagos the pace-setting State in the transformation of the teaching profession.
He said: “In Lagos, teachers have not had any major demands which the Government has not prioritised. It is only in Lagos teachers are promoted and get salaries of the new grade level before the promotion letters get to them. It is in Lagos that thousands of teachers are on Grade Level 17 when their colleagues in other states are either stagnant at Level 14 or demoted.
“On occasion of World Teachers’ Day in Lagos, it is about showing appreciation to the leadership of the State. We are using this opportunity to tell our Governor that we have a large number in the teaching service, and this has never been a burden to the system. Come February 2023, we will mobilise not only ourselves, but also our families and relatives to make the election work in your favour.”
NUT National President, Comrade Audu Titus Amba, sent a note of appreciation to Sanwo-Olu on behalf of Lagos teachers, stressing that Lagos Government had lifted the teaching profession and set enviable standards in the State.
Represented by Comrade Titi Adebanjo, NUT National Secretary, Amba said: “In some states, apart from the Governors being afraid to meet with teachers, Sanwo-Olu can walk confidently among teachers because he has raised not only the standards of teaching in Lagos, the Governor has also improved on the welfare package for teachers to make teaching rewarding.”
Sanwo-Olu described teachers as “important stakeholders” in moulding behaviour and creating a functional society. He said his administration’s efforts towards boosting teachers’ capacity through capacity building led to over 10,000 teachers benefiting from various initiatives to refresh their teaching skills.
The Governor said priorities were placed on career progression of teachers in Lagos, making their promotion an annual exercise while ensuring prompt implementation of benefits and earnings due to them.
He said: “Today, I join our resilient and outstanding teachers in celebrating a legacy of excellence, dedication and commitment built on the foundation of a unique profession that involves the promotion of the complex personal development of young minds in preparation for future roles as responsible citizens. No Society can deliver quality education without placing premium value on its teachers. While many only expect the Almighty God to reward teachers, it is our firm resolve that our teachers must receive and enjoy the rewards for their labour, first here on earth and then, later in Heaven.
“As a teacher-friendly Government, we developed various initiatives to enhance teaching and further motivate our teachers. Our commitment to increasing the capacity of our teaching staff is visible through local and international training. Over 10,000 teachers have been exposed to various training programmes to hone and refresh their teaching skills. To ensure that we don’t lack teachers in any subjects, we introduced an Exit-Replacement Policy, which ensures prompt recruitment of qualified teachers to replace the ones that retire. This has created employment for over 6, 000 qualified teachers in the last three years.”
Sanwo-Olu urged teachers to always uphold the ethics of their profession and continue to show uncommon sense of responsibility and greater commitment to duty.
He pledged his administration would continue to accord priority to investment in education, while also improving the capacity and welfare of teaching personnel. The Governor said Lagos schools would further become more ICT-compliant, as he promised to expose teachers to international best practices.
“I urge you not to relent in your effort to impart quality knowledge in our children. You are the diamonds set in gold rings for this noble profession. As partners, we will appreciate your continued commitment and support in achieving an effective and efficient education system for the benefit of our dear citizens,” the Governor said.
In a show of appreciation, the teachers honoured Sanwo-Olu with an Education-friendly Award.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
05 OCTOBER 2022
Run for the Coal City: Amstel Malta Ultra rewards winners with cash prizes
Winners of the just-concluded ‘Run for the Coal City’- the 20km Ultra marathon race organized by Amstel Malta Ultra, in conjunction with Enugu State Ministry of sports have been rewarded with cash prizes.
Held on Saturday, October 1 2022, the Ultra marathon kicked off by 7 am after registration.
Flagging off the Ultra marathon, Honorable Commissioner for Youths and sports, Enugu state, Hon. Manfred Nzekwe, welcomed all participants and urged them to have fun and run for more than the prize. According to him, the essence of the marathon is to support healthy living and fitness.
Participants commenced at Okpara square, Enugu and covered the mapped-out route spanning eleven vantage points from Okpara square to the Nnamdi Azikiwe stadium gate. The participants were given color-coded wristbands at every point to ensure that they followed the mapped route exactly.
Finishing first, Chinecherem Kingsley Onyia, breasted the tape and won the marathon, as well as the grand prize of 500,000 naira for the male category, Okechukwu Donatus and Egu Kenechi, followed closely, winning 250,000 and 150,000 naira respectively.
For the female categories, 20-year-old, Affigbo Esther from Lagos state came first place, followed by 35-year-old Helen Mammah from Abuja and 14-year-old Patience Joseph, from Imo state, winning 500,000, 250,000 and 150,000 naira respectively.
Expressing joy, the winner of the male category, Chinecherem Kingsley Onyia said “I am so happy and excited that I got to compete and win. I am especially grateful to Amstel Malta Ultra and the Enugu state government for organizing this competition.”
Also, expressing her delight, winner of the female category, Affigbo Esther, said, “I feel great, coming first place for the females in this marathon. I am grateful to Amstel Malta Ultra for organizing this competition as it is a great way to help the youths.”
“This is the beginning of new things for the people of Enugu,” said Chidi Egwu, Senior Marketing Manager, Amstel Malta, while speaking on the success of the event. “Amstel Malta is a brand that encourages people to choose the best way to live and will continue to support the good people of Enugu state in their journey to a healthy and better living.”
Further commenting on the turnout of the event he said, “I am very impressed with the turnout, seeing lots of very promising talents both in the male and female category. It was a fantastic outing, the first for Amstel Malta in Enugu.”
In addition to the prizes won by the first three finishers in both categories, participants that came in 4th to 20th place in the marathon in the male and female categories were also rewarded with 10,000 naira each.
The Ultra Marathon race is the second event in the 3-week long fitness lineup of activities scheduled to be held between September 24 to October 8 in the coal city.
Royal families in Okere-Urhobo have condemned the role of Chief Louis Okumagba in the 30 plots released by the Delta State government to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State.
They described it as a negative development and a minus for peace and development in Delta State.
In a letter titled: ‘’Attempt / efforts to cause communal war, fanning the embers of communal dispute, conduct likely to cause breach of peace and criminal defamation of characters of our clients; Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State, all committed by Mr. Louis Okumagba – a call to investigate the allegation herein, the families urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good office to investigate allegations against Louis Okumagba, so as to prevent a monumental communal war/crisis between Itsekiri and the Urhobo of Okere Urhobo Kingdom.
’’God forbid a repetition of what happened in 1997/98 in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom’’
Counsel to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo Kingdom, L O. Egboyi & CO said in the 1974/76, the then government of Mid-Western Nigeria acquired a part or portion of our client’s land for public purpose.
‘’In 2017, the Delta State government gave part of this acquired land to Messrs. Seriviri Nig. Ltd. for the purpose of partnership (Leisure Park) with the state government, covered by a certificate of Occupancy. Considering the size of the land given to Seriviri Nig. Ltd, for the partnership, it could not utilize the entire land. So, it entered into agreement with our client family, wherein, it released 30 plots thereof back to the family – our clients’’
The Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri are made up of the popular Okumagba family of Warri, Okere- Urhobo kingdom.
‘’Our clients are the owners of all the land in the entire Okere-Urhobo kingdom Warri. Certain Mr. Louis Okumagba who is the black sheep of the family started to foment trouble, disturbing and threatening Seriviri Nig. Ltd, with thugs and dangerous weapons which led to his arrest in 2019 to the Police Force Headquarters’, Abuja. After being granted bail by the police, the suspect (Mr. Louis Okumagba) rushed to file a fundamental Human Rights action against the Police, at the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri. The action stalled the prosecution of the suspect (Mr. Louis) by the Police’’.
The families said the suit of the suspect against the Police was dismissed by the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri, with a specific order of the Court directing the police to arrest and prosecute the suspect (Mr Louis Okumagba).
‘’While the Police were looking for the suspect for arrest and prosecution as directed by the Court, the same suspect went to social media (Opera news) to declare that “there will be looming danger of war/crisis between the Itsekiri and Urhobos”, thereby inciting, promoting and instigating communal war between the two peaceful co-existing communities of Itsekiri and Urhobo’’.
This incitement, according to the families, created several apprehensions in the minds of locals, which has affected the hitherto peace that reigned and pervaded the two communities.
‘’Furthermore, the suspect posted on the same social media that some named members of our clients namely, Chief Gideon Okumagba, Stanley Oki, Chief Victor Okumagba, Engr. Prince Ojuvwu Okumagba and others, sent assassins to his house to kill him, but he escaped by the whiskers. He confirmed that he had a one-on-one confrontation with the assassins, who confirmed the named members of our clients above, as the people who commissioned them to eliminate him’’.
The legal practitioners described Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu as bunch of responsible families
‘’Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families are known throughout Nigeria for their peaceful disposition. The named individuals are distinguished and respected members of the Okumagba family and the Nigeria Society. Our clients therefore take the allegation of hiring assassins by its members very seriously, especially in this era of Security challenges in the country’’.
The families also deplored the actions of Louis Okumagba and urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good offices to investigate the allegations and anyone found culpable to be brought to book.
‘’So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive. We assure you of our client’s co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition’’.
……………………………………………………
Legal Practitioner, Corporate & Property Consultants
No 9, Effurun / Sapele Road
Opposite High Court Junction,
Effurun .
TEL: 08035759764
Email: luckyegbuyi@ gmail.com
Our Ref: LOE/IGP/COM/BREA/OKUMAGBA/1/22 Your Ref……………
THE INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE,
NIGERIAN POLICE FORCE
EDET LEWIS HOUSE
ABUJA.
Sir.
RE: ATTEMPT / EFFORTS TO CAUSE COMMUNAL WAR , FANNING THE EMBERS OF COMMUNAL DISPUTE, CONDUCT LIKELY TO CAUSE BREACH OF PEACE AND CRIMINAL DEFAMATION OF CHARACTERS OF OUR CLIENT ; OLODI, OKI AND IGHOGBADU FAMILIES OF WARRI IN THE OKERE – URHOBO KINGDOM OF DELTA STATE, ALL COMMITTED BY MR. LOUIS OKUMAGBA – A CALL TO INVESTIGATE THE ALLEGATION HEREIN
We are counsel to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo Kingdom, herein called our Clients.
The Olodi , Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri, make up the popular Okumagba family of Warri , Okere- Urhobo kingdom.
Our clients are the owners of all the land in the entire Okere-Urhobo kingdom Warri.
In 1974/76, the then government of Mid-Western Nigeria acquired a part or portion of our Client’s land for public purpose.
In 2017, the Delta State government gave part of this acquired land to Messrs. Seriviri Nig. Ltd. for the purpose of partnership (Leisure Park) with the state government, covered by a certificate of Occupancy. Considering the size of the land given to Seriviri Nig. Ltd, for the partnership, it could not utilize the entire land. So it entered into agreement with our Clients family, wherein, it released 30 plots thereof back to the family – our clients
Certain Mr. Louis Okumagba who is the black sheep of the family started to foment trouble, disturbing and threatening Seriviri Nig. Ltd, with thuggery and dangerous weapons which led to his arrest in 2019 to the Police Force Head Quarters, Abuja. After being granted bail by the police, the suspect (Mr. Louis Okumagba) rushed to file a fundamental Human Right action against the Police, at the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri. That action stalled the prosecution of the suspect (Mr. Louis) by the Police.
We wish to inform you that suit, of the suspect against the Police, has been dismissed by the Delta State High Court, Sitting in Warri, with a specific order of the Court directing the police to arrest and prosecute the suspect (Mr Louis Okumagba). A copy of the enrolled order is herein annexed as annexure as Annexure A.
While the Police were looking for the suspect for arrest and prosecution as directed by the Court, the same suspect went to social media (Opera news) to declare that “there will be looming danger of war/crisis between the Itsekiri and Urhobos”, thereby inciting, promoting and instigating communal war between the two peaceful co-existing communities of Itsekiri and Urhobo.
This incitement has created several apprehension in the minds of locals, which apprehension has affected the hitherto peace that reigned and pervaded the two communities.
Furthermore, the suspect posted on the same social media that some named members of our Clients namely; Chief Gideon Okumagba, Stanley Oki, Chief Victor Okumagba, Engr. Prince Ojuvwu Okumagba and others, sent assassins to his house to kill him, but that he escaped by the whiskers. He confirmed that he had one on one confrontation with the assassins, who confirmed the named members of our Clients above, as the people who commissioned them to eliminate him.
Our Clients are bunch of responsible families known throughout Nigeria for their peaceful disposition. The named individuals are distinguished and respected members of the Okumagba family and the Nigeria Society.
Our Client therefore takes the allegation of hiring of assassins by its members very serious, especially in this era of Security challenges in the country.
It is against the background of the foregoing that we have the instruction of our Clients to petition you to use your good office to investigate these allegations against the suspect, so as to prevent a monumental communal war/crisis between Itsekiris and the Urhobos of Okere Urhobo Kingdom. God forbid a repetition of what happened in 1997/98 in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom.
So, if investigation reveal the named individuals as assassins or connected to the attempt assassination of the suspect, as he alleged, they should be so indicted and prosecuted. But otherwise, the law on criminal defamation as enshrined in the Criminal Code and status in Nigeria are still very potent and alive.
We therefore urge you to use your good offices to investigate these allegations of our Client and cause anyone found culpable to be brought to book.
We assure you of our clients co-operation with your men in the investigation of this petition.
Yours faithfully
L.O. EGBOYI ESQ
CC;
The Head:
Olodi, Oki and Ighogbudu families,
Of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, Warri
EMAIL EDITORS:
………………………………………………
CALL EDITORS:
08036977194
08038565006
……………………………………………………..
PRESIDENT BUHARI INAUGURATES, SETS AGENDA FOR NATIONAL COUNCIL ON CLIMATE CHANGE
President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday in Abuja charged the National Council on Climate Change to formulate appropriate policies toward achieving green growth and sustainable economic development for Nigeria.
Inaugurating the Council before the commencement of the Federal Executive Council meeting, the President said it marked the commencement of the implementation of the Climate Change Act 2021 and a new chapter in the renewed response to climate change in the country.
The President also directed the Attorney General and Minister of Justice in conjunction with the Minister of Environment to initiate appropriate amendments of ”noticeable implementation challenges” inherent in the Act.
Highlighting the losses and damages caused by the recent increasing floods in several parts of the country as well in Pakistan, Bangladesh and other parts of East and Southern Africa, the President described climate change as one of the biggest challenges facing humanity.
”It [Climate Change] is complex and dynamic; and requires multidimensional and multi-sectoral initiatives to address its impacts and avert its rapid advance.
”Updated data show increases in sea level rise, heat waves, wild fires, floods, desertification, drying wetlands and many more disruptive climate occurrences.
”The latest Intergovernmental Panel on climate change report warns that rising Green House Gas emissions could soon outstrip the ability of communities to adapt, and the window for taking decisive steps needed to spare our planet from the gravest impacts of climate change is rapidly narrowing.
”We cannot ignore what is happening in our local environment. The increasing re-occurrence of floods in several parts of the country is a wakeup call,” he said, lamenting the loss of lives, damage and destruction of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, schools and agricultural production.
President Buhari, therefore, reiterated the determination of his Administration to strengthen national response to climate change and accelerate the implementation of decisive actions to reduce its impacts on the people and economy.
He reaffirmed that Nigeria is a party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which is an established international treaty to combat “dangerous human interference with the climate system”, in part by stabilizing Green House Gas concentrations in the atmosphere.
”It is against this background that in November 2021, after COP 26 in Glasgow, I signed the Nigeria Climate Change Act despite noticeable implementation challenges inherent in the Act, to set the framework for mainstreaming climate change action, carbon budgeting and the establishment of the National Council on Climate Change.
”The council is tasked with the responsibility of formulating appropriate policies and other mechanisms for achieving low Green House Gas emissions, including green growth and sustainable economic development for Nigeria.
”In a clear demonstration of our commitments as enshrined in our Nationally Determined Contributions and the Net Zero-Target by 2060, I also approved, on 25th July 2022, the appointment of the Director General and Secretary for the National Council on Climate Change.
”It is imperative therefore that those lapses earlier alluded to – which includes the establishment of states and Zonal offices creating a huge and costly bureaucracy is not acceptable. The Act also takes out the Commissioners of Environments from the states as members of Council, it also did not make transitional provisions capturing the work of the Inter-ministerial Working Group.
”This group was responsible for Energy Transition, the supervisory oversight of the Ministry of Environment and the establishment of an Executive Management structure at the secretariat level to support the DG in running the Council Secretariat.
”Accordingly, I hereby direct the Attorney General and Minister of Justice in conjunction with the Minister of Environment to initiate the appropriate amendment to reflect these observations.”
Ahead of COP27 in Sharm El Shiekh, Egypt, the President expressed optimism that the National Council on Climate Change would harmonise all issues relating to Climate Change, Energy Transition Plan, Emissions Trading Scheme and the Carbon Trading Framework, in line with its mandate under the Act, so that Nigeria can have a robust and impactful outing that captures Nigeria’s Climate Change priorities.
He said the composition of the council is a reflection of the magnitude of the problem and the seriousness of our response, adding that it comprises the highest level of governance and a representation of all key sectors of the economy.’
President Buhari also used the occasion to thank Vice President Yemi Osinbajo for heading Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, presiding over the global launch of the plan and initiating its marketing by engaging key stakeholders in the United States.
He urged the Council to consolidate on these first steps and ensure a sustained marketing of the plan.
Mohammed Abdullahi, the Minister of Environment, thanked the President for ”walking the talk” on climate change at the international, regional and national level, demonstrating immense leadership towards Nigeria’s quest for net-zero by 2060.
The Council is chaired by the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, with the Vice President as Vice Chairman. The Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, is also a member.
Other members of the Council are the Ministers responsible for Environment; Petroleum Resources; Budget and National Planning; Justice; Mines and Steel Development; Finance; Agriculture and Rural Development; Power; Women Affairs; Transportation; and Water Resources.
The Governor of Central Bank; the National Security Adviser; President of Association Local Governments of Nigeria; a representative of the private sector on climate change or environmental related matters (representative of National Conservation Foundation); a representative of National Council on Women Societies; a representative of National Youth Congress, and a representative of the Civil Society Organisation are also members of the Council
The Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change, Dr Salisu Dahiru, will serve as Secretary.
After the inauguration, the Federal Executive Council observed a minute silence in honour of Chief Ayodele Ogunlade, a former Minister of National Planning, under former Head of State, Sani Abacha, who died on Tuesday aged 88.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 28, 2022
PRESS STATEMENT
GOV AKEREDOLU RESOLVE IS TO SPARE NO EFFORT IN PROTECTING THE PEOPLE
The reasons adduced by Garba Shehu in his Press statement for the continued refusal to approve of the use of sophisticated weapons by state security outfits can no longer be plausible in the face of increasing security challenges being faced by the people.
The assertion of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity on the use of automatic weapons by State Security outfits betrays the current realities across the country. His attempt to justify the use of AK47 by the Vigilantes of Katsina State for training stands logic on it head.
The report by the TVC News that went viral showed the Kastina State Vigilantee training with AK47. This is the same weapon which approval has vehemently been refused for the use of Amotekun Corps and other State Security Outfits.
The questions Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, asks are:
iii. Were the guns returned to the armoury after use?
It is rather suspicious that Garba Shehu elected himself as the spokesperson for the Kastina State government. Whereas, the Katsina State has not come out openly to deny the statement of Governor Akeredolu on the use of AK47 by
Vigilantes of Katsina State during training.
Governor Akeredolu has reiterated that State Security outfits backed by law whether in the Western Nigeria, Katsina, Borno, Benue or any Northern State must have access to the same sophisticated weapons that the criminals have. It time to face down these enemies of the people.
It is illogical to continue to fight hardened marauders who bear sophisticated weaponry to kidnap and maim our people with bare hands. We cannot fight armed enemies of the people with our bare hands.
It is our firm belief that the government has a fundamental duty to protect the people. It is a task that must be accomplished without excuse.
Governor Akeredolu is determined to spare no efforts in protecting the people. He has vowed to explore every available legal and constitutional means to secure the state and its people.
The Southern Nigeria Governors Forum has called for the establishment of State Police. The 19 Northern State Governors and Northern Traditional Rulers Council have also supported the call for State Police.
The call by the sub-national should be heeded and change effected where necessary.
Every Governor sworn to an oath to protect the state and the people. The sub-national must be allowed to put in place security forces as a counter-balancing force to face these marauders who have unchecked access to sophisticated weapons.
It is high time we tackled these conflict entrepreneurs and restore the confidence of the people. We can not do the same thing time and again and expect different result.
Governor Akeredolu is irrevocably committed to the security of the people, particularly his state. He will continue to speak up in defense of the people. He is very much committed to the realization of constitutional amendment to reflect the current realities.
Signed:
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 28, 2022.
Communities in Niger Delta live in depressing conditions—SERAP
A new report by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has revealed how “communities in the Niger Delta continue to live in depressing and deplorable conditions, despite the fact that the wealth derived from these areas is the main economic mainstay for the country.”
According to the report, “The communities in the Niger Delta remain the poorest in the country.”
The 82 pages report launched today at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, is titled: ‘We Are All Vulnerable Here’: How Lack of Transparency and Accountability is Fuelling Human Rights Violations in the Niger Delta.
The report presented to the media by Dr. Olubunmi Afinowi, Faculty of Law of the University of Lagos, discloses that “The region remains deeply in the grips of squalor, poverty, and environmental degradation.”
The report shows that, “Corruption contributes to poverty and consequential suffering of many people in the Niger Delta. The right of the people to a clean, safe and healthy environment is routinely violated and abused by the government and oil companies.”
According to the report, “Extensive social, economic, and environmental degeneration has largely affected the lifestyles and wellbeing of the people of the Niger Delta. Also apparent is the continued disregard and abuse of the human rights of the people of the region.”
Femi Falana, SAN said at the report launch, “The management of the Niger Delta Development Commission by interim administrators is illegal. The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami SAN should advise President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently reconstitute the NDDC board of directors.”
Falana said, “Since the appointment of interim administrators is unknown to the NDDC Act, all contracts awarded by them are illegal and liable to be set aside.”
Falana also called on “the Federal Government to release the report of the Forensic auditing of the NDDC to enable the oil producing communities to demand accountability from many contractors who collected huge funds and abandoned development projects in the Niger Delta region.”
Among the people who attended the report launch are: Speaker of Cross Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon John Etim; the Chairman of the ICPC, represented by Dr Grace Chinda; and the Executive Secretary of NEITI, represented by Kareem Lamidi, team lead advocacy for NEITI.
The report launch was also attended by Dina Sabi, Second Secretary of the Embassy of the Netherlands in Nigeria; the Director-General, Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), represented by Mr. Egbe Ekpe; and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, represented by Barrister Raji Rasaki.
Others are: High Chief Eric Barisa; Madam Florence Kayemba, Stakeholder Democracy Network; the Executive Secretary, NHRC, represented by Mr. Saliu Musa; representatives of communities from the Niger Delta; and the members of the media.
All the participants expressed commitment to ensure the full implementation of the recommendations contained in the report.
The research for the report was conducted under the Niger Delta project supported by the Ford Foundation.
The report, read in part: “While the oil and gas upstream operations span the entire Niger Delta region, the empirical study in this research focuses on the Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers states.”
“The doctrinal study, on the other hand, is more encompassing and examines the challenges and adverse impacts of the oil and gas industries in the host communities and the government’s response mechanisms through the various regulatory and institutional frameworks.”
“The relevant monitoring agencies have not effectively carried out their duties and functions and this has led to a continued disregard for the rights of the people and the need to protect the environment.”
“Corruption is a major factor in the continued degradation in the region. There is a lack of an effective governance and feedback framework to foster interactions between regulators, companies, and communities. This implies a lack of transparency and accountability from the companies and the government to the people.”
“The oil and gas companies receive minimal government monitoring in the conduct of their activities; more troubling is the prevalence of oil theft and illegal mining, and refining of crude oil. Such illegal activities make the region crime prone and increase the vulnerability of the inhabitants of the communities.”
“The communities are continually exposed to food insecurity and health risks. Most of their communal lands, land and water resources have been lost or continually threatened by degradation and pollution.”
“A lot of information about the oil and gas companies, their activities, environmental audits and other relevant information are not available to the public. Such information is often shrouded in secrecy, and where made available, is limited, unclear and provides little or no actual information.”
“Marginalization of women, the aged, the youths and other vulnerable members of the communities, such as persons with disabilities is rife. This marginalization also has far-reaching implications for the protection of the socio-economic rights of the inhabitants of the communities.”
“President Muhammadu Buhari should publicly recognize and re-affirm that every Nigerian citizen, including oil producing communities, is entitled to economic and social rights, and take steps to ensure constitutional recognition of these rights as legally enforceable human rights.”
“President Muhammadu Buhari should immediately instruct the Ministry of Niger Delta Humanitarian Affairs and other government agencies overseeing the NDDC to immediately publish the forensic report on NDDC conducted in 2021.”
“The leadership of the National Assembly should ensure that the relevant committees collaborate to initiate independent public enquiries and fact-finding on how public funds have been spent by MDAs to mitigate the socio-economic impact of environmental pollution in oil producing communities.”
“The leadership of the National Assembly should make public the findings of any such investigations by the relevant parliamentary committees on the use of public funds by MDAs to mitigate the socio-economic impact of environmental pollution in oil producing communities.”
“The leadership of the National Assembly should make public all reports of previous investigations into allegations of corruption in relevant MDAs concerned with the management of issues relating to the impact of environmental pollution in oil producing communities and send such reports to anti-corruption agencies.”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
28/9/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES MBS ON HIS APPOINTMENT AS SAUDI PM, PRAYS FOR KING SALMAN’S HEALTH
President Muhammadu Buhari Wednesday extended his congratulations to Prince Mohammed Bin Salman (MBS), the newly appointed Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
A letter personally signed by the President welcomed the appointment which is combined with the position of Defence Minister, the first ever in the history of the Kingdom.
President Buhari said the government and the people of Nigeria looked forward to working with him to further deepen and expand excellent bilateral relations.
The President expressed confidence that with the dynamic and visionary leadership of the government by the Prime Minister under the guidance of his father, ruler of the Kingdom and Custodian of the two Holy Mosques, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz, the comprehensive strategic partnership of our two states will continue to blossom.
In wishing Prime Minister Muhammad a successful tenure in office, President Buhari prayed to Allah to increase the health and wisdom of King Salman.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 28, 2022
PRESS RELEASE
LAGOS’ TRANSFORMATION JOURNEY WILL NOT BE COMPLETE WITHOUT WOMEN – SANWO-OLU
An account of Lagos State’s journey to a cosmopolitan society would not be fully told without chronicling the contributions made by women to the cultural growth and socio-economic transformation of the State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said on Tuesday.
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the roles played by women in the transformation of Lagos at a forum tagged “WAPA Connect”, organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation at Lagos Continental Hotel with the theme: “The Emerging Total Woman”.
Lagos, the Governor said, presents a unique social structure distinct from other parts, given the unique influence of women in positions of authority. Their impacts, Sanwo-Olu said, have elevated the status of the State to a society where women take full pride.
The forum brought women achievers in the public and private sectors together for networking and to share experiences on contemporary issues critical to enable women achieve their full potential.
Sanwo-Olu said the event’s theme was to address the changing dynamics driven by the new thinking of the 21st century, as well as preparing women for contemporary challenges they needed to overcome.
The Governor said the conference was initiated in pursuance of his administration’s avowed commitment to the policy of inclusiveness and emancipation of women.
He said: “Under the current democratic dispensation, we have seen how women have distinguished themselves with enviable records in public service; as heads of public agencies, Permanent Secretaries, Judges and Commissioners. They have given Lagos its unique status and played vital roles in transforming the State into a cosmopolitan society. Without women, the story of Lagos greatness cannot be told. This is a testimony that there is something we are getting right by putting women in the positions of authority.
“There is no gainsaying that empowered women have achieved different levels of success against all odds in various areas of endeavours. The real issue that must be of serious concern to us is, how do we support, inspire and encourage young emerging women to arrive at their destination against all odds? It is important that we accept this responsibility to guarantee a better future in a socio-economic ecosystem that is increasingly becoming more competitive.”
Sanwo-Olu said Lagos had been pulling down barriers of inequality against the women, initiating policies to make the State become a society where women needed no permission before taking their rightful positions as progress partners.
The State Government, he said, had demonstrated its commitment in the appointment of women as key drivers of public policies and programmes.
The Governor disclosed that women make up 65 percent of Permanent Secretaries in the civil service, 60 percent of judges appointed and 50 per cent of public agencies’ heads.
He said: “Our administration has done so much to create opportunities for women, while also promoting gender equality through the initiatives and programmes being implemented by relevant government agencies, particularly the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. I assure you that we will not rest on our oars, as there is still much to be done to support our women in many areas.”
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Dada, said women’s roles in shaping the society across social, economic and political levels were vital, noting that empowerment of women remained pertinent for the achievement of United Nations’ 2030 agenda on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
She said millions of women across the country had endured lives of abject poverty, because of the economic inequality and lack of requisite skills to survive in a modernised economy.
Giving women improved access to knowledge and training, the Commissioner said the impacts would be significant in the society in terms of economic growth and social development.
“It is an established fact that the economic activities by women often times constitute the backbone of the economy. This conference is aimed at offering the practicable template for strategic thinking towards gearing up our women to evaluate their rights to economic resources, and expand their access to sexual and reproductive well-being, and become viable tools for socio- economic growth of Lagos.”
First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said the prevailing economic situation posed serious challenges to many women. She called for more socio-economic opportunities for women.
She said: “Bringing more women out of the prevailing socio-economic situations will give them more freedom to improve their livelihoods and contribute their quota towards growth of our State. This would place Lagos on equal pedestal with societies where women flourish.”
The conference featured a panel of discussions on topical issues critical to solving challenges women are facing in contemporary time.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
27 SEPTEMBER 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS FORMER MINISTER OF NATIONAL PLANNING, CHIEF AYODELE OGUNLADE
President Muhammadu Buhari condoles with family of former Minister of National Planning, Chief Ayodele Ogunlade, urging friends and close associates to find solace in the courage that the elder statesman brought to life.
President Buhari affirms that Ogunlade’s rise from a primary and secondary school teacher, Senior Producer in Western Nigeria Television and Broadcasting Services, Permanent Secretary, Minister of Information and Culture, and foremost industrialist typifies resilience that should be celebrated and emulated.
The President notes the warm heartedness, positive outlook and broad vision of the former minister, who shared his success skills with many, and extended his wisdom to both private and public institutions, leaving lasting imprint on Nigeria’s development over many years.
As the former journalist, public servant and industrialist begins his final journey, President Buhari believes his investments of love and goodwill will continue to inspire and modify lives, particularly the overwhelming influence in community development, through educational and health schemes.
The President prays that God will comfort Ogunlade’s family and grant him eternal rest.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 28, 2022
APC will win 2023 presidential poll convincingly – Ndoma-Egba
Former Senate Leader and ex-Chairman of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Distinguished Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, SAN, has said that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) will cruise to a convincing win over his opponents in the 2023 presidential election.
Ndoma-Egba, an influential politician who represented the people of Cross River Central Senatorial District between 2003 and 2015 in the Red Chamber, gave the assurance while reacting to the recently released list of members for the APC Presidential Campaign Council.
The erstwhile parliamentarian made the list as the Secretary of the Directorate for Campaign Planning.
The legal luminary who was the secretary of the National Convention Planning Committee that produced Adams Oshiomhole as APC national chairman in 2018, observed that the party’s presidential campaign council is made up of experienced and notable Nigerians with electoral value.
His words: “I feel honoured and gratified that I’m invited once again to serve and play a prominent role in the APC to which I belong. I’m a faithful and committed member of the APC. So, I’m totally pleased. Looking at the presidential campaign council, I think it is very well constituted, populated by very experienced people with extensive networks and electoral value. That is what we need at this point that campaigns are about starting. The campaign council is made up of tested and proven men and women that will add value to the campaigns and give mileage to our presidential candidate Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who on his own has the credentials and the qualities to also take the campaigns forward. I believe that the APC will win the 2023 presidential election clean and clear.”
Speaking on the need for eligible Nigerians to participate in the electoral process, Ndoma-Egba said: “I will advise the public to own the process because choosing your leader is a sacred duty. And if you are indifferent then you will be foisted with people that you have no say in how they emerge but you will still yield to them in any way because they would have been vested with the constitutional authority over your affairs. So let every member of the public of voting age come out and take part in the process that will lead to a new leadership come 2023. It’s a sacred duty. It’s a civic duty. And it’s also a constitutional duty for all of us to participate in the process.”
On ensuring issue-based campaigns, he remarked: “There are too many issues dominating our social space today. So, there is really no need for us to get petty. We should debate the issues. There are too many issues staring us in the face. Is Nigeria where it ought to be? Which turns did we miss? Where are we headed? Can we build an elite consensus, an elite national consensus on the Nigeria of our dreams? And how do we attain or achieve the Nigeria of our dreams? What kind of Nigerians do we want to be? I mean, there are very urgent conversations that we should begin to have if this country must move forward. Yes, like I said we have missed some turns in the past. We are not where we should be. But we can catch up. And then with lesson from the Gulf region that have made such tremendous milestones in the last few years. And even from Southeast Asia, countries like Vietnam that were at war for how many decades, Thailand, Cambodia and suddenly exploding and emerging economic power houses. It is comforting in many ways that within such a short time these countries in spite of their challenges are where they are. With the will we can also achieve same.”
Labour Party Slams Agho Blessing For Her Bad Vices, Demands retraction
Of Libelous Allegations
EDO State chapter of the Labour Party (LP) has demanded an unreserved
apology from one Ms Agho Blessing who has been running berserk on
social media, spewing venom and acerbic libellous allegation against
the national chairman of our great party, Comrade Barrister Julius
Abure.
The state chairman, Comrade Kelly Ogbaloi descended heavily on Ms Agho
Blessing over her primitive, baseless and scorched earth criticism of
the celebrated national chairman who has helped to nurture the Labour
Party along with other patriotic leaders of the party over the last
three decades without blemish.
“Hon. Elizabeth Ativie won the election for Uhuonwonde/Orhionmwon
Federal Constituency and her name was uploaded into Independent
Electoral Commission’s (INEC) portal in accordance with the electoral
laws, pure and simple”, the state chairman said.
Agho Blessing who is an internet urchin has been ranting on her
Facebook page with less than 4,000 followers over the loose of one of
her numerous man friends, Mr Murphy Imasuen who lost at the Labour
Party rescheduled primary election conducted in Uhuonwonde/Orhionmwon/
Federal Constituency of Edo State, sometimes in July this year.
In one of her incoherent diatribe against Barrister Abure, Blessing
wrote: “The duplicitous national chairman of the party; Julius Abure
has threatened to dissolve the State Executive excos for refusing to
support him.
“Recall, that it was allege that the tolotolo long throat national
chairman collected the sum of N30MILLION from the desperate
dishonorable iyenokhua; Madam Elizabeth Ativie to place her name on
the INEC list.
“Elizabeth Ativie uncloaked her ordeal with Julius Abure, the Labour
Party national chairman who asked her for money, she gave him a bank
draft and boom he removed Murphy Imasuen’s name and changed it to
hers”.
Agho Blessing is said to be engaged in bizarre and violent
preoccupations after many failed marriages on account of her
uncontrolled verbal diarrhoea, disruptive behaviour and unbridled
insolence that has to do with mental instability.
Comrade Ogbaloi called on Ms Agho Blessing to retract her unfounded
allegations against the national chairman that he has been trying to
dissolve the state EXCO of the party as well as the N30m allegation
within seven days or face multiple litigation.
WE’LL CONTINUE TO ENSURE FREEDOM OF SPEECH, ROBUST POLITICAL DISCOURSE, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI
President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Abuja assured that participation of citizens in democracy will continue to be encouraged through freedom of speech and robust political discourse, urging respect for divergent cultures and opinions, and upholding the unity of the country.
Receiving Letters of Credence from Ambassadors and High Commissioners of six countries at the State House, the President told the diplomats that Nigeria’s strength remains in its diversity, and the constant differences in positions further signpost a strong democratic culture.
The Ambassadors and High Commissioners of Republic of India, Mr Gangadharan Balasubramanian, Germany, Mrs Annett Gunther, Sudan, Mr Mohamed Yousif Ibrahim Abdelmannan, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mrs Gerengbo Yakivu Pascaline, State of Palestine, Abdullah M.A. Abu Shawesh and The Kingdom of Netherlands, Mr Willem Wouter Plomp, presented their Letters of Credence to President Buhari.
“As you settle down to your diplomatic responsibilities, you will realise how diverse Nigeria is. We are not only multi-ethnic and religious but also multi-cultural. We enjoy unfettered freedom of speech and engage in robust political discourses. Sometimes, the nature of these discourses, tend to give the impression that we are constantly opposed to each other.
“The reality is that there is so much that bind us together than the few areas of our divergence. I have no doubts in my mind that you will soon appreciate our uniqueness and indeed resilience as a people, as well as our diversity which constitutes our strength,’’ he said.
President Buhari urged the diplomats to build on the existing good relations that their predecessors had achieved by being more proactive in engagements.
“Today’s occasion, during which you have just presented your Letters of Credence to me, officially marks the formal assumption of your representational duties as Ambassadors/High Commissioners of your respective countries to Nigeria.
“You represent some of the most prominent countries on the earth and some of our important trading, political and cultural partners.
“The bilateral relationship that exists between each of your countries and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is warm and very cordial, and the cooperation and collaboration between us in several areas, such as socio-economic, political, security, education and cultural spheres,’’ the President noted.
As the build up to the 2023 general elections continues, President Buhari said: “I am highly optimistic that we will conduct a good transition process at the end of which a new set of political leaders will freely emerge.’’
“You are assuming your diplomatic responsibilities in Nigeria, at very interesting political period as Nigeria’s national elections are due in February 2023. I want to state again, as I did just a few days ago at the UN General Assembly, that we remain committed to free and fair elections,’’ he added.
The President called for more collectiveness in tackling some of the challenges faced by nations, noting that the climatic, economic and security concerns can only be solved through shared vision, skills and efforts.
“We are living in unprecedented global challenging time. Early in 2020, much of the world was forced to shut down on account of COVID-19. The catastrophic impact of the pandemic has been across our nations not just in terms of tragic loss of millions of lives, but also massive loss of livelihoods and the resultant economic recession.
“Just as we are recovering, the war in Ukraine came to impact negatively on global economy. Meanwhile, we are faced with the urgency to take collective actions to stop the devastating consequences of climate change that manifest every day in parts of the world.
“The various factors that account for these challenges are beyond the capacity of any single country to effectively contain them alone. Hence, the necessity for all of us to work closely together to build consensus in order to overcome them and also minimise tensions and confrontations amongst and between ourselves,’’ he said.
President Buhari said Nigeria firmly remains committed to multilateralism.
“For us in Nigeria, we continue to make steady progress, despite the daunting challenges of insecurity, in the fight against corruption, diversification of the economy, and our efforts in promoting good governance, amongst other things.
“At the sub-regional and regional levels, Nigeria has continued to work with other member-states of ECOWAS and other regional blocs, to deal with the problems of terrorism, trans-border crimes, banditry, maritime issues, proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons, unconstitutional change of government, to mention some of the challenges we face,’’ the President stated.
While welcoming the Ambassadors and High Commissioners, and their families to Nigeria, President Buhari wished them a rewarding tour of duty.
On behalf of the diplomats, the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria assured President Buhari of the full support of their countries, especially as Nigeria counts down to the 2023 elections, adding that they would work with his government, and the leader that emerges after elections.
Balasubramanian said all the Ambassadors and High Commissioners will work to consolidate on existing good relations, while Germany will focus on climatic issues, and The Kingdom of Netherlands pursuing interests in agriculture and stimulating youths’ capacity in entrepreneurship.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 27, 2022
Lagos, Nigeria 28 September, 2022
2baba, Cobhams and Made Kuti set to find the most extra special band in Nigeria as Trophy Extra Special Band as season 3 kicks off
Trophy Extra Special Stout, the official sponsor of live band music in Nigeria returns with Trophy Extra Special Band Season 3 set to premiere on Saturday 1 October at 20:00 WAT
With the spotlight on the third season of Nigeria’s best live band reality TV show, Trophy Extra Special Band, the organisers have announced an expert team of judges featuring 2Baba, Cobhams Asuquo, and Trophy Extra Special Stout’s new brand ambassador, Made Kuti.
The show will premiere on Africa’s destination for premium entertainment and storytelling, MTV Base, DStv Channel 322 and GOtv Channel 72 on Saturday, 1 October 2022 at 20:00 WAT.
Judges are tasked with assessing and steering eleven bands in their quest for the grand prize of 10 million naira and a brand-new set of musical instruments over eight weeks. In addition to 2Baba, Cobhams and Made Kuti, Nigerian vocalist, dancer, lyricist, Yinka Davies and ace rapper, Illbliss will appear as guest judges. Returning as host for the new season is Bolanle Olukanni who is joined by actor, TV/radio presenter Simi Drey, as the new co-host.
Commenting on the choice of judges and hosts for the third season, Tolulope Tomori Adedeji, Marketing Director at International Breweries said, “In line with the underlying theme of our campaign, we have selected judges and hosts who are innovative leaders in their rights — true representations of the theme No DNA Needed, Originally Black. We are certain they will individually bring their unique signature and wealth of experience to bear and make this season the most memorable one so far.”
“Now in its third year, the competition provides a platform for live bands to thrive and shine in an ecosystem where the focus has been on solo acts. With exciting new additions to the third season, including more technically challenging routines and new music genres for the bands to perform, the show is bound to be incredibly reverberating,” she added.
Afrobeat scion, Made Kuti, acknowledged the importance of the show, especially in line with the ongoing Trophy Extra Special Stout thematic campaign, “No DNA needed, Originally Black” which seeks to celebrate the innovative spirit in Africans.
“Resilient ingenuity is the hallmark of Nigerians and Africans, whether they live here or any of the other 6 continents. We are innovators, pacesetters, and system builders. You know us, not only by the colour of our skin but by our resilience, and though this is commendable, it is important that platforms are created to support and empower Africa’s geniuses to thrive and shine. The Trophy Extra Special Band competition does this, and I can’t wait to be a part of the incredible journey of identifying and rewarding indigenous originality.”
Previous editions of The Trophy Extra Special Band saw Black Tunez and The Bandhitz emerge as winners in Seasons 1 and 2 respectively. Other remarkable bands from the previous seasons include The Alian Tribe, Benedictz, and Elixir, all of whom have achieved success from the show.
Expressing his delight on the continuity, Bada Akintunde-Johnson, Country Manager, Paramount Africa (parent company of MTV Base) said, “We are pleased to work with International Breweries on the production of the new season as it resonates deeply with all we stand for. Nigeria is brimming with incredible talent, and we believe that providing these talents with platforms – such as the Trophy Extra Special Band – will go a long way in unlocking their full potential. Even more crucially, it creates a sustainable means of spotlighting an underserved segment of our music industry.”
Catch Trophy Extra Special Season 3 on MTV base every Saturday from 1 October till 19 November 2022 at 20:00 (WAT). There will be repeat broadcasts on Sundays and Wednesdays at 19:00 and 21:00 (WAT) respectively. The show will also air between 20:00 and 21:00 (WAT) on Africa Magic Urban, DStv channel 153 and GOtv SUPA Channel 6, as well as Africa Magic Family, DStv Channel 154 and GOtv Channel 2, every Saturday.
You can also follow the conversation on social media using the hashtag #TrophyExtraSpecialBand and the Trophy Stout Instagram handle (@trophystout).
PRESS STATEMENT
I WON’T ABANDON WIKE …Ortom
Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has dismissed as a ruse, the insinuation in some media reports that he has broken away from the camp of his Rivers State counterpart, Nyesom Wike.
Speaking to journalists Tuesday, September 27th, 2022 shortly after returning from a brief London trip, he insisted that he stood with Wike and frowns at the injustices meted out on him.
Thisday Newspapers’ had in screaming headline of Tuesday September 27th, 2022, twisted the statement from the Governors media aide with the caption; “Ortom Breaks With Wike, Says He Is Not Supporting Ayu’s Removal.”
The Governor at the briefing said the news story is not only mischievous but misleading to further fuel the impasse within the PDP and sow a seed of discord between him and his Rivers State counterpart and other members of the group.
The Governor reiterated “There is no breaking away from our group. I still sympathize with Wike for the injustices meted out on him and our group.”
He said, “The Thisday news report is misleading. I just came back from London this morning with Wike and I still maintain my stand on what I said. I have not moved away from there. The party leadership has not been fair to Governor Wike based on the activities that took place during the convention and after the convention.
“They have not been able to adequately deploy the internal conflict resolution mechanism of the party to resolve those issues. So I still sympathize and stand with Wike and let the leadership of the party at the national level do the right thing. It is not too late to do so,” he said.
According to Governor Ortom “Politics is about interest, and where your interest is not protected, you have the right to protest” stressing that “We remain committed to the PDP but still want the right thing to be done, so that everybody will be carried along.”
While noting that it is not late to resolve the issues, Governor Ortom further pointed out that with the interface he had with the Board of Trustees, BOT of the party, he hopes that issues will be properly addressed.
“The issue in contention about the national Chairman, the BOT, was here some few days ago and we deliberated on the matter. They sought to know what my feeling was about the crisis and I told them the truth as far I am concerned.
“I gave them my recommendations and I hope that justice will be done so that our party will gain its position to take over power in 2023,” he said.
The Governor maintained that despite the crisis rocking the party at the national level, Benue State does not have any problem, stressing that “from bottom to top, we are good to go, as far as our party is concerned. I am working for our candidates.”
On the outcome of the caucus meeting, the Governor said after due consultations, a Benue North-West Senatorial campaign team for the Senate will be constituted, pointing out that it will be integrated into the main campaign council of PDP in Benue State.
Nathaniel Ikyur
Chief Press Secretary
September 27th, 2022.
PRESIDENT BUHARI CELEBRATES SEGUN AWOLOWO AT 59
President Muhammadu Buhari joins family and friends to rejoice with former Executive Director/CEO of Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), 2013-2021, Segun Awolowo Jnr, on his 59th birthday, September 27, 2022.
President Buhari salutes the lawyer for years of service to the nation, accepting appointments to share his wealth of knowledge and wisdom, including Special Assistant to the President on Traditional Institutions, Secretary of Social Development, FCT, and working in President’s Office with Budget Monitoring and Price Intelligence Unit, also known as Due Process, now Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP).
The President notes Awolowo’s extensive work with four Nigerian Presidents and three FCT Ministers, which reveals his patriotism and zeal to make a difference, successfully initiating and pursuing a visionary policy of Zero-oil Plan in NEPC, which calls for repositioning of the economy to favour non-oil exports.
As the scion of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo marks his 59th birthday, President Buhari believes his experience will find relevance and greater expressions as he moves higher in public service, ready and willing to make an impact on growth of the nation.
The President prays for good health, strength and greater heights for the former Executive Director of NEPC.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 26, 2022
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU AT CHATHAM HOUSE, CHARGES WORLD LEADERS ON SUSTAINABLE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
…Says LASG has consistently increased budgetary allocation, efficiency in healthcare
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has appealed to world leaders, global think-tank and public office holders to work towards building a sustainable healthcare system for all and facilitate access for the poor and under-served.
Speaking on “Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria: Optimizing Institutional Opportunities and Partnerships for Success” at the weekend at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House, Governor Sanwo-Olu charged global think-tank to optimise institutional opportunities and partnerships for the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
“To achieve UHC, developing countries must first focus on offering their residents a basic minimum set of healthcare services, provided free at the point of care using subsidy, controlled premiums or at a pre-set tariff system, within government-regulated facilities either public or affiliated private,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State as the most populous city in Africa, a financial hub and Africa’s 5th Largest Economy on the continent, has strategically strengthened the health system in pursuit of Universal Health Coverage.
He said Lagos State has been using policies to strengthen its health systems, pushing toward the achievement of UHC, which the State considers a journey and not a destination.
“In Lagos State, we believe that policy is the most effective tool that governments can deploy in the pursuit of stronger health systems and eventually approaching UHC. The right policies will lead to the development of robust health financing systems that will serve the needs of our huge and increasing population,” he said.
Speaking on some of the policies of his administration to strengthen the health system, Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State Government has consistently increased its budgetary allocation and efficiency to healthcare over the years, noting that the desire of his government is to eventually match the Abuja Declaration of 15 percent.
He said his administration, through its capital infrastructure blueprint agenda, is upgrading and renovating its existing primary and secondary health facilities in the short term and it has commenced building new designed fit-for-purpose primary, secondary and specialist health facilities for the future.
“We recognise that the Government cannot cover the funding gap in the health system without support from the private sector. In a bid to encourage public-private partnerships, we set up various institutions such as the Office of Public Private Partnerships (OPPPs) and IBILE Holdings, a private company owned by Lagos State for the purpose of engaging with the private sector. These institutions are mandated to facilitate and fast-track PPP opportunities in Lagos State.
“We understand the need for proper governance within the administrative structure of the health system and so we inaugurated boards for all the agencies within the Lagos State Ministry of Health. This has gone a long way to strengthen the capacity of the hierarchical sub-agencies, keeping them focused on their mandates.
“We believe in health insurance as a tool that we can leverage to quickly cover ground in our quest for UHC and so we have thrown the full weight of our support behind the newly established National Health Insurance Act, and mandated our Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) to domesticate and enrol residents of Lagos into the Lagos State Social Health Insurance Scheme.
“We are leveraging partnerships with Global organisations like Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Global Fund amongst others to explore innovative ways to strengthen our primary health system. In fact, I believe that such organisations’ decisions to directly fund a sub-national like Lagos State is a testament to the clarity of our vision and our drive to achieve results,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also disclosed that his administration has concluded some innovative schemes in partnership with the private sector to modernise the equipment in the State’s secondary health centres and set up specialised health facilities.
“We have commenced two pilot projects: The Lagos State Oncology Centre and the Omotunde Ajoke Cole Smart Hospital. The success of these projects will mark a new dawn in our health system, where the best of the public and private sectors come together to provide world-class affordable healthcare.
“We are working hard to improve the quality of human resources we have in our health centres. We are also using a system of meritocracy to appoint Medical Directors (MDs) in health centres and ensure continuous medical and administrative education.
“We understand the critical role played by logistics within our health system and we are making sure that people, essential medicines, and consumables are easily transported within our health system,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said while Lagos State Government is working on innovative mechanisms to pay for healthcare, it also needs to ensure that it is building a healthcare delivery system that can provide decent healthcare services to the people of the State.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
25 SEPTEMBER 2022
NBA PRESIDENT TO GOV AKEREDOLU: YOU ARE A SOURCE OF COURAGE TO US
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Sunday received a high-powered delegation of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) on a condolence visit.
The delegation was led by the president of the association, Chief Yakubu Maikyau, SAN.
The Governor received the NBA team in company of the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Olugbenga Ale.
In his remarks, Chief Yakubu Maikyau said the Bar is very proud of Governor Akeredolu, stressing that the Governor has charted a course for the members of the Association to follow.
The NBA President disclosed that Governor Akeredolu is the benchmark for judging president of the association.
He described the Governor as a role model that has shaped the attitudes, professionalism and courage of the NBA.
The NBA President said: “Governor Akeredolu, Our uncle, our big brother, past President of the NBA, of course, is the only Governor today that has passed through that route, that has excelled in his chosen career of law and that went ahead to lead the Nigeria Bar Association, with courage, boldness and purposefulness that nobody can deny in this country.
“These are the attributes that you, Mr. Governor, have brought into this office that he you occupy today. There are poeple who may want to say that, of the 36 Governors in this country, they probably did not know who are Governors in other states. But they cannot say so for the Governor of Ondo State. And that is why we, in the NBA, are very very proud of you.
“We are very very proud of you. You have charted a course for us to follow. You continue to remain that reference point for us as members of the Nigeria Bar Association. And to some of us that are privileged to tread on that path you have once been, and where you also led creditably, you are a source of inspiration. You are a source of courage to us.
“You are actually the benchmark for which we judge who has done well as a President of the Nigeria Bar Association. We have a role model that can shape our attitudes, that can shape our professionalism, that can shape our courage and boldness to aspire to that particularly office.
“So, my big brother, our President, I call him the President of all presidents, my prayer is that the almighty God will comfort you and the entire family and all of us that are children of Mama affected by this great loss.”
Chief Maikyau, who also described himself as one of the Children of the Late Mother of the Governor, Evangelist Grace Bosede Akeredolu, stressed that Mama’s children are beyond the territory of Ondo State but all over the country and the world.
“Your Excellency, you are not the only child of mama in this room today. I’m from Kebbi State. By the special grace of God, I’m one of the children of Mama. Honestly, there are many children of Mama that go beyond the territory of Ondo State. They are all over the country and also across the globe because of what Mama represents during her lifetime.
“I’m deliberate about using that present tense because Mama merely slept. When somebody is sleeping, you don’t refer to him or her in the past tense. Mama is alive, Mama has merely slept. I can draw strength from the Scripture that tells us that when one moves from this side of the eternity to the other realm, that such a person merely slept. There is a certain day that such person will wake up.
“Mama is one that we are sure that by the integrity of God’s words that will wake up some day at the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ. So, I have come not to mourn will you but to just bring words of comfort to you because our parents can never be too old to stay back with us.
“We all miss the physical fellowship we had with Mama. There are things, perhaps, you had wanted to discuss with Mama but her physical absence has robbed you of the opportunity of doing so.”
“I have come to celebrate with you that Mama has left this side of eternity in terms of her physical presence. I have come to celebrate with you for the fact that Mama lived well, and to underscore that fact that I’m also Mama’s child,” he added.
Governor Akeredolu thanked the NBA President for the visit and congratulated him on his deserved victory as the President of the Bar.
The Governor also commended the courage of the NBA President for speaking up against the intrusion into the house of a Court of Appeal judge, Ita Mbaba, in Kano, Kano State.
Governor Akeredolu urged the Bar President to continue to be the voice of the people.
“We must continue to prosecute our conviction with courage. We need a Bar that is courageous. And you have shown it,” the Governor said.
On his late mum, Governor Akeredolu said: ”Our mother lived to a ripe age of 90. We have picked a date, November 10, 11 and 12. We will thank God the best way we can. For me, it is for us to thank God for his grace. This is a Graceful exit of Grace. We will celebrate her.”
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 25, 2022.
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU, SGF, SULTAN, CAN PRESIDENT TASK NIGERIANS ON PEACE, JUSTICE
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha, and leaders of the Nigeria Inter-Religion Council (NIREC) have called on Nigerians, irrespective of religious and ethnic differences to work together for peace and justice in country.
Sanwo-Olu, Mustapha and co-chairmen of NIREC – Sultan of Sokoto and leader of Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence Mohammed Sa’ad Abubakar and President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. (Dr.) Daniel Okoh, made the appeal on Monday during the 3rd Quarter Meeting 2022 of the Nigeria Inter-Religion Council held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island.
Governor Sanwo-Olu in his address urged religious and traditional leaders to continue making it a collective responsibility to preach and work towards promoting unity, peace, justice and tranquility in Nigeria.
Speaking on the theme of the meeting, “Working together for justice and peace,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said promoting unity, peace, justice and tranquility in Nigeria will bring about a peaceful coexistence among the people.
“I believe with the case of NIREC that we have today and that we have seen consistently, this country will not be put to shame. I am hoping that the conversations, discussions and decisions at the NIREC meeting will further strengthen that thing that we all swore to; to ensure justice, peace and equity in this country.
“We are at a time this country needs all of us, now more than ever before and so, we should not allow hate speech. We cannot afford ethnic bigotry. We cannot afford to be divided. We are going into elections; let us see the commitment and nationality in all of us,” Governor Sanwo-Olu urged Nigerians.
The Governor also expressed his administration’s commitment to the delivery of dividends of democracy in Lagos State. “As a political leader, the only way we will not fail our people is by ensuring that we give good governance. I stand here as your 15th Governor of Lagos State and I want to repeat that the ‘Greater Lagos’ agenda is something that we are committed to and it is something that we have signed unto,” he said.
Speaking on the ongoing Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU) strike and the union face-off with the Federal Government, Governor Sanwo-Olu said though none of the Lagos State-owned three universities are on strike, it is painful that children in other universities are at home in the last seven months.
Sanwo-Olu, who appealed that ASUU should call off the strike and get the students back to school, said the academic union and the Federal Government should quickly resolve the lingering issue necessitating the over seven months strike “in order not to compromise the future of our children.”
Mustapha, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Secretary to Government of the Federation, Dr. Maurice Nnamdi Mbaeri, said the meeting was a call to national duty to take an active part in renewing troubled communities.
He charged people, especially religious leaders to work for justice, peace and fair play to create the needed change so that Nigerians can always live in unity and harmony.
“I want to charge every one of us to work for peace that will endure and outlast us by creating functional structures for generations unborn. This structure must have the capacity to be proactive in responding to emerging issues while reinforcing a longer and larger change processes. We cannot fold our hands when we see problems emerging,” he said.
The Sultan of Sokoto, a Co-Chairman of NIREC, said the role of religious leaders is to be just and fair to earn the trust of the people. He also urged Muslims and Christians in the country to come together to pursue peace and justice as they are inseparable.
He pleaded with ASUU to call off the ongoing strike, saying both the Federal Government and academic union should find a common ground to resolve their conflict in the interest of the students, who have not been in school in the last seven months.
The President of CAN and NIREC’s Co-chairman, Rev. Daniel Okoh, urged people to embrace peace, desist from hateful utterances, live in peaceful coexistence with one another, be accountable, elect leaders with capacities during the 2023 general elections and abhor tribal sentiments, among others vices.
In his speech, the Executive Secretary of NIREC, Cornelius Omonokhua, said the meeting was aimed at changing existing narratives to allow justice and peace to reign in Nigeria.
He said there was a need for mental reengineering, change of values and attitudes as well as radical emancipation to address the root of various calamities of national concerns.
Also speaking, the Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, called on religious leaders to continue to preach peace and unity to bring about development in the country.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
26 SEPTEMBER 2022
Julius Berger commences immediate repair on Km 75 Abuja – Kaduna Expressway
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has begun an immediate emergency repair around Kilometre 75 Abuja – Kaduna Expressway. This is in response to the hardship caused by the deplorable condition of that portion of the highway.
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is currently reconstructing the 376-kilometer Abuja-Kano Road (AKR) and has made tremendous progress at different sections of the AKR project. The project is divided into Sections 1 (Abuja-Kaduna), 2 (Kaduna-Zaria) and 3 (Zaria-Kano), and out of 376 kilometers, over 152 kilometers have progressed up to the wearing course with 140 kilometers already handed over.
Regrettably, Section 1 has lagged largely due to disruptions by activities of bandits and other criminal elements along the axis. However, with the remarkable and reassuring gains made by members of the armed forces and other security agencies recently, Julius Berger engineers are returning to the site to commence the reconstruction of this 165-kilometre section of the project. Top-level meetings are also ongoing between the management of Julius Berger and the Kaduna State Government to ensure that the project can continue hitch-free.
The AKR currently has a total of 4480 number manpower deployed on and off-site, and with the 74km length Section 2 (Kaduna to Zaria) project nearing completion, Julius Berger hopes to bolster its number of men and equipment on the remaining Sections, most especially Section 1, guaranteeing intense pace in the delivery of the project.
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc again reassures commuters and the general public of its commitment to delivering a quality road project that will serve them and ease their current challenges on the road .
More Laurels As Dum Dekor, Others Bag Methodist Church Award In Lagos
The lawmaker representing Khana/Gokana federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Dumnamene Robinson Dekor was among 180 Nigerians who received the prestigious Honorific Award for outstanding leadership, service to God and positive contribution to humanity.
The colourful ceremony which held at the Birch Freeman’s Methodist Cathedral, Badagry, Lagos on Saturday, attracted people from all walks of life including Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The prestigious award by Birch Freeman’s, the first Methodist Church in Nigeria, established since 1842, is coming on the heels of the conferment on Dekor As Best Federal Lawmaker of Year Award by the African Trendsetters, a fortnight ago in Port Harcourt.
Rt. Hon. Dekor, a former Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly as well as former Works Commissioner in the state has also won back to back the Dmoma Best Lawmaker Award in 2020 and 2021 respectively.
He also bagged the National Network Leadership Award in 2019 and has been nominated for Best Federal Lawmaker Award by the newspaper in it’s 18th Anniversary Celebration billed for Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt on 28th October, 2022.
The appreciative federal lawmaker, in his words said he owes gratitude to God and humanity for the series of awards, saying that whatever he is doing is a payback to society and particularly to his Ogoni people, whose mandate he has to represent them at the National Assembly.
The awards on the 180 Nigerians is in commemoration of 180th / 60th Anniversary of Methodist Church in Nigeria.
PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS PAUL UNONGO AT 87
President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with former Minister of Steel Development, Paul Unongo, on his 87thbirthday, September 26, 2022, rejoicing with the elder statesman for a life of service to the nation and humanity.
The President hails the political leader for his principled and philosophical outlook on life, which guides his choices in business, politics and governance, with a preparedness to give more than he receives, and spend his time and resources in improving the lives of others.
President Buhari notes the sacrifices, selflessness and resilience of the nationalist, who worked many years as a banker, before returning to school to obtain his B.SC, M.SC and doctorate in Experimental Psychology in Canada and London, returning to Nigeria to lecture in the university and contributing to major political and constitutional reforms.
As founder of the Paul Unongo Foundation turns 87, the President celebrates with his family members, friends and associates.
The President prays that the Almighty God will continue to bless and keep the political leader and his family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 25, 2022
Lagos, Nigeria 27 September, 2022
Amstel Malta Ultra hosts Enugu to the inaugural Fitness Fiesta
Emphasising its commitment to wellness and a healthy lifestyle among Nigerians, Amstel Malta Ultra hosted consumers to the first-ever Amstel Malta Ultra Fitness Fiesta on 24 September, 2022 at the Michael Okpara Square, Enugu.
With several fitness instructors in attendance, the workout session was led by ex-BBNaija housemate and fitness influencer, Okusaga Adeoluwa, popularly known as Saga, which excited many participants, including hundreds of fitness enthusiasts who trooped into the venue to get registered and participate in the workout sessions.
Speaking on the ultra-fitness fiesta in Enugu, Funso Ayeni, Head of Trade Marketing, Nigerian Breweries PLC said, “The selection of the Coal City of Enugu for this novel event was a straightforward decision as the state is renowned for its passion for fitness, sports and youth development. Although this is the maiden edition of the Ultra Fitness Fiesta, we hope to deepen our involvement in local sporting activities such that this become a staple in Nigeria’s annual sporting calendar.”
Activities at the fiesta also included dance sessions, aerobics, High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) among many other exciting workout routines, refreshed by Amstel Malta Ultra to energise the participants.
This event is the first leg of the 3-week long Amstel Malta Ultra Fitness Fiesta. The second leg is the 20km marathon, Run For The Coal City, which will hold on 1 October, 2022. Celebrities and fitness influencers such as the Amstel Malta brand ambassador and actress, Dakore Egbuson-Akande; award-winning Nigerian athlete, Ese Brume and fitness trainer, Sandra Okeke (SOfit) are set to attend.
Southwest Directors of Culture meet in Ogun
Directors of Culture in all the Yoruba speaking states will meet in Abeokuta, the Capital of Ogun State, this Friday, to deliberate on the region’s coming celebration of Yoruba fashion culture and its business exposition tagged ‘Ilẹ-Kaaarọ-Oo-jiire Fashion week’ slated for the last quarter of this year.
With the motto: From Farm to Fashion, the-week long activities are being organised by the Yoruba World Centre, in collaboration with the Ogun State Government, to educate, demonstrate, and expose the arts of Yoruba fashion and the hidden investment opportunities in its process to national and international publics. It is majorly tailored for youth development and women empowerment.
It is a week of history of Yoruba fashion, as packaged by Crystalline World Heritage, where demonstration will start from the planting and harvesting of cotton, the process of turning cotton into yarn (grinning), from where cloths distributors and retailers sell to the public, before it gets to dress makers for different styles.
The Ogun State Commissioner of Culture and Tourism, Mrs Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye Oladapo, who is to host the directors reiterated the importance of the programme, saying ‘it is one of the best ways to assist our youths and empower the womenfolk, and also to foster investment relations at regional, national and international levels.”
Speaking on behalf of the Yoruba World Centre, the Director of the project, Prince Akinwale Atepe, stated that the week is going to be carnival-like as ministries of culture in Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo are preparing their cultural troupes for this special event. “I have visited most of the states, met with commissioners, Permanent Secretaries and directors, we are all prepared for the meeting from where the ball will be set rolling, because it is at this meeting that a date will be picked between the end of November and early December for the programme.”
Lagos, Nigeria 26 September 2022
South African Pioneer Riky Rick posthumously receives inaugural Global Visionary Award at The BET HipHop Awards 2022
Hosted by Fat Joe, “BET Hip Hop Awards” 2022 premieres Wednesday, 05 October 2022 at 02:00 am WAT/ 03:00 am CAT and repeat at 18:30WAT/19:30 CAT
Rikhado “Riky Rick” Makhado will be honoured posthumously with the prestigious title his fans have known him to hold ever since he broke into the industry: The Global Visionary Award, during the International Broadcast of the 2022 BET Hip-Hop Awards. The esteemed award recognises and honours champions of culture, including artists, DJs, and music industry professionals who have made ground-breaking efforts to expand the culture of hip-hop on the World Stage. Riky Rick is the inaugural recipient of this award.
Hosted by Grammy®-nominated recording artist, actor, entrepreneur, and media personality Fat Joe the “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” 2022, will tape from the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, GA, on Friday, September 30, and will premiere Internationally on BET Africa, DStv channel 129 on Wednesday, 05 October 2022 at 02:00 am WAT/ 03:00 am CAT and repeat at 18:30WAT/19:30 CAT.
“The BET Global Visionary Award comes as a heart-warming opportunity to celebrate Rikhado’s life and his deep love for humanity”, said Louisa Zondo, Riky Rick’s mother. “I see the award as a recognition of the positive impact of the music Rikhado shared with us. The award also highlights how Rikhado used arts and culture as an important and effective pathway for people to truly connect with, care for and be seen by each other.”
The South African Entrepreneur, Rapper, and Fashion Icon, Riky Rick, has been a force in the music industry since the release of “Nafukwa”, which won an MTV Africa Award for Video of the Year. Riky Rick’s dynamic and prominent voice in SA hip-hop has earned him recognition as a highly regarded creative who has left an indelible mark on the global music scene. He pioneered the independent music wave in SA and beyond, separating from his label and releasing music directly to fans online. His independent ventures achieved much success and inspired other artists to explore a similar path. He is the founder and owner of Cotton Club Records and of Cotton Fest, a platform that celebrates the world of music and fashion.
“As Riky’s family, we are moved and honoured to receive the BET Global Visionary Award on behalf of our beloved, Riky Rick,” said Bianca Naidoo Makhado, Riky Rick’s wife. “This award honours his work and his name. I am so proud that my husband’s work is still making a positive impact within the entertainment space and that his legacy continues to inspire young creatives. This award reminds us of his love for his fans and for the culture.”
“Riky Rick means so much to so many of us, not just South African hip-hop fans but globally beyond the mic. His impact in changing the South African hip-hop game to be more inclusive, particularly in encouraging young creatives to take control of their destiny and dare to dream bigger, endures as one of his most influential and lasting legacies. His legacy continues to inspire and together with Bianca, we hope to honour Riky by championing a new generation of black creatives while celebrating his life and what he stood for,” said Monde Twala, Senior Vice president and General Manager, Paramount Africa and Peer Lead, BET International.
Riky Rick’s untimely passing, due to mental health struggles, is a great loss for many. This Award aims to honour his life, work, and his lasting impact while raising awareness around mental health issues and shedding light on available coping resources. Riky Rick was an innovator in many spheres of culture and the world benefited greatly from his intuitive vision.
For more information about “BET Hip Hop Awards” including the latest news and updates, visit bet.com/hiphopawards.
GOV AKEREDOLU FLAGS OFF ORANGHIS, SAYS IT WILL LOWER FINANCIAL BARRIERS TO HEALTHCARE FOR PUBLIC SERVANTS
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, on Tuesday disclosed that his administration has continued to demonstrate political will in attaining Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in accordance with one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Governor Akeredolu expressed his administration’s commitment to quality healthcare delivery in the state.
He spoke at the official flag off of the Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) for public servants in the state.
The Governor equally performed the foundation-laying ceremony of the permanent office complex of the State Contributory Health Commission beside the State Revenue House, Igbatoro Road, Akure.
At the well attended event held at the International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, Akure, Governor Akeredolu explained that the official flag off of ORANGHIS ushered in a breath of fresh air in the healthcare delivery system in line with the fifth point of his government’s REDEEMED agenda, which is Effective Healthcare and Social Welfare.
According to him, ORANGHIS is designed for all political office holders and civil servants in the State.
He noted that the delight of any Governor in a developing country like Nigeria, is to be able to create a sustainable funding mechanism that lowers the financial barriers to healthcare for the citizenry.
The Governor said:”In spite of the obvious economic constraints across Nigeria, we approved the joint contribution of 3% of gross salary of each public servant under a sharing ratio of 1.8% by the State Government and 1.2% by individual public servant, as the premium for a family health insurance plan, covering each public servant, one spouse and four biological children below the age of 18 years.
“It is on record that we are the only State Government, in recent times, that is taking up the responsibility of a larger percentage (60%) of the health insurance premium for public servants. We made the commitment to do so as part of the social welfare promise under the REDEEMED agenda.”
He acknowledged the patriotic support of the labour unions in enthroning the Orange Health Insurance Scheme, saying they have shown maturity, dedication, understanding and true sense of comradeship.
“We have continued to demonstrate political will since on 6th February, 2018, when I signed into Law, the Bill establishing the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission and the Ondo State Contributory Health Scheme in response to the pressing global need to attain Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in accordance with one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“We also gave effect to the operationalisation of this Law by creating a temporary office space for the Commission, which we officially opened on 24th June, 2019, to begin her mandate of regulating, supervising and coordinating all health insurance activities within the State.
“You will recall that we have begun the implementation of health insurance by paying the premium for pregnant women and children below the age of five years through a budgetary line for the Abiyamo Maternal-and-Child Health Insurance Scheme (AMCHIS) – the first health insurance product.
“I am glad to inform you that the Abiyamo scheme since 3rd December, 2019 till date, has recorded over 24,200 beneficiaries who have not had to pay a kobo for antenatal care, delivery services (including Caesarean Sections) and other allied services.
“Thereafter, we approved the release of the State’s counterpart fund to the Federal Government-funded Basic Health Care Provision Fund Programme (BHCPFP) in order for another set of vulnerable persons in Ondo State to enjoy robust healthcare services.
“Today, 20,560 enrollees, made up of widows, retirees, aged, indigents, women and children below five years are the six categories of beneficiaries receiving care at the 203 Primary Health Care Facilities (1 per 203 wards) with referrals to general hospitals when required under the BHCPF programme.
“The beneficiaries pay no kobo for medical, surgical, gynaecology and several other health care services. We are, therefore, glad that the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission has taken the health insurance conversation a step higher with the third product called Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) for all public servants in Ondo State.”The Governor stressed.
Governor Akeredolu revealed that a fourth health insurance scheme known as Sunshine Health Insurance Scheme (SUNSHIS) for the informal sector will also commence in the nearest future to cover artisans, market women, commercial transport operators
“Finally, please be assured that the State Government’s percentage contribution and the premium deductions from public servants’ salaries to the Orange Health Insurance Scheme shall not wane.
Furthermore, a fourth health insurance scheme known as Sunshine Health Insurance Scheme (SUNSHIS) for the informal sector that makes up about 95% of our population shall also commence in the nearest future to cover artisans, market women, commercial transport operators etc.
“I am also aware that pensioners and students shall have their own scheme too. This means that every resident of Ondo State will be brought into the safety net of the Universal Health Coverage.” He said.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 27, 2022.
AKEREDOLU REPRESENTS WHAT NIGERIANS DESIRE AT THIS TIME – PETER OBI
The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, on Tuesday said the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, represents what Nigerians desire at this present time.
Obi described Governor Akeredolu as a leader who speaks the truth at all times no matter the consequences.
The LP Presidential candidate spoke during a condolence visit to the Governor at the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Alagbaka, Akure.
Also on ground to receive him were the wife of the Governor, Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu; the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; the Chief of Staff, Chief Olugbenga Ale; Director General of the Project Performance and Implementation Monitoring Unit and grandson of the deceased, Mr Babajide Akeredolu among others.
Obi, who said things are going wrong in the country because people choose to keep quiet, commended the Governor for speaking up for the people.
He charged Governor Akeredolu to continue to take every necessary step to protect his people, adding that the Governor is doing the right thing.
Obi said: “I urge you to continue in that direction. You represent one of those things Nigerians desire, ability to speak the truth no matter the consequences.
“What is lacking in Nigeria is that we choose to keep quiet when things are going wrong. You have a man here who always speaks when things are going wrong, and I urge you to continue.”
He supported Governor Akeredolu on his move to arm the Amotekun Corps, saying the Governor must continue to do his best to defend his people.
“Arm those special security poeple. Take every step to protect your people. It is important and it is your duty. I’m happy that you are speaking out always when necessary. May God Almighty continue to be with you and bless all of you.” He added.
Obi condoled the Governor on the demise of his mother, Lady Evangelist Grace Akeredolu, JP, praying God to grant her eternal rest.
The LP presidential standard bearer equally used the occasion to commiserate with the Governor over the sad incident at St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, where 41 people were killed and several other injured.
In his response, Governor Akeredolu appreciated Obi and his entourage for finding time to visit him.
Akeredolu, who said what happened on June 5 at St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, was horrendous, also described the sad incident as unexpected and uncommon, especially in the Southern part of the country.
On the death of his mother, the Governor said she would surely be missed even though she left at the ripe age of 90 years.
He expressed joy that all of her late mother’s children survived her, saying she would be given a glorious and befitting burial.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 27, 2022.
APPRECIATION AND ANNOUNCEMENT OF BURIAL ARRANGEMENTS
On behalf of my siblings and the entire Akeredolu family, I wish to express our profound gratitude to all those who have reached out to us through visits and messages since the transition of our loving and lovely mother, Lady Evangelist Grace Bosede Akeredolu. It has been a deluge.
Your display of love is profoundly appreciated. We cannot thank you enough. Your love and kindness are, indeed, potent enhancers for us to deepen our abiding faith in God and service to humanity.
We are equally grateful to those who spared time to visit us at the Kopindogba residence of Maami in Ibadan. We extend our appreciation to those who visited us at the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Akure, and everyone who has identified with us and other members of the Akeredolu family in Owo, Lagos and Abuja. Your affectionate support is heart-lifting.
We appreciate the love and sympathy of political leaders, royal fathers, religious leaders, community leaders, heads of security agencies, organised labour, unionists, civil servants, public officials, student leaders, women groups as well as politicians across political parties.
We would like to request friends, associates and well-wishers to join us in giving our late matriarch a glorious funeral. The obsequies are as follows:
Service of Songs at St. Matthias Anglican Church, Orogun, Ibadan.
Jacob & Grace Chapel of the All Saints Church, Iddo Eruwa Road, Ibadan.
Time: 4pm.
Commendation Service at St. Anne’s Anglican Church, Molete, Ibadan, by 9am.
Service of Songs at St Andrew’s Cathedral, Imola Street, Owo, by 4pm.
Wake Keep at Jacob & Grace Garden, Opposite Imade College, Oke-Ogun, Owo.
Burial Service at St Andrew’s Cathedral, Imola Street, Owo, by 10am.
Interment follows immediately after the burial service.
We covet your prayers and supports as we prepare to celebrate the life of Maami.
Signed:
Arakunrin Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu, SAN
Governor, Ondo State.
PRESS STATEMENT
Rotimi Fashakin Was A Quintessential Personality, Reliable Ally – Akeredolu
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, received the news of the sudden death of former Executive Director of Operations of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Engr. Rotimi Fashakin, with rude shock.
Governor Akeredolu described the death of the former spokesman of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) as a big blow to Ondo State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the country at large.
“We understand that death is a debt which everyone will surely pay if Jesus tarries. We are, however, pained with the loss of this resourceful and dedicated son of our dear State, who has shown passion and commitment to the good of the state and its people.
“ Rotimi and I had worked together in various assignments. He was our Publicity Secretary when I was the Chairman of the Caretaker Committee of the APC in the state. His intellectual prowess stood him out as a gifted man.
“Beyond mere emotions, his demise is a piercing pain which is difficult to understand. But as Christians, we must submit totally to the will of the Almighty God as the giver and taker of lives,” the Governor said.
Governor Akeredolu said the late Engr. Rotimi Fashakin gave his best in the service to humanity and the country.
“A fellow alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Rotimi was a quintessential personality who has served this country and his state in his little way. He will be sorely missed, may God grant him eternal rest. ” Governor Akeredolu added.
The Governor commiserated with the widow and children of the deceased. He prayed God to grant the family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
Signed:
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Govenror of Ondo State.
September 26, 2022.
PRESIDENT BUHARI TO CONFER CON NATIONAL HONOUR ON GOV AKEREDOLU
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has been named as one of the recipients of the 2022 National Honour Award of the Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON by President Muhammadu Buhari.
This was contained in a letter from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs signed by the Minister, Senator George Akume.
The Minister in the letter, which read in parts, said: “I have the honour to formally inform you that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, has approved the conferment of the National Honours on you, in the rank of CON (Commander of the Order of the Niger).
“The investiture ceremony is scheduled to take place at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Abuja on Tuesday, 11th October 2022 at 9:00 am”.
GOV AKEREDOLU: WE’II FACE DOWN CONFLICT ENTREPRENEUR, ENEMIES OF THE PEOPLE
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has said the Amotekun Corps must be allowed to bear the tools and the most sophisticated weapons available to fight back against marauders committing crimes against humanity.
Governor Akeredolu explained that the incontestable authority of the state must be imposed in the country which is under threat by brazen conflict entrepreneurs and armed, audacious non-state actors.
He asserted that the State Security outfits backed by law whether in the Western Nigeria, Katsina, Borno, Benue or any Northern State must have access to the same sophisticated weapons that the marauders have.
The Governor vowed that his administration will continue to support the operational capacity of all security agencies in the State both in terms of equipment and the welfare of their personnel.
He spoke at the Passing-Out Parade of Courses 3 and 4 of the State Amotekun Corps at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade, Igbatoro Road, Akure on Monday.
Governor emphasised that the passing out ceremony is a reminder of the need to strategize and tackle the current security situation, which he said has been left to snowball into existential crises across Nigeria.
He averred that the commitment of his administration to the safety and welfare of the people of the State and investors remains unshaken.
Governor Akeredolu charged the new officers to do nothing that will soil the image of Amotekun Corps, adding that much is expected from them.
“The key guiding principles which you must adhere to at all times include spartan discipline, zero-tolerance to bribery and abuse of power, prompt response to distress calls and display of professionalism in the discharge of your duties. No form of misconduct shall be tolerated.” He stressed.
The Governor, who noted that the current internal security framework in the country is ineffectual, submitted that the response of the subnationals by setting up their own outfits is welcome, necessary, and has become indispensable.
Governor Akeredolu said:”The Western Nigeria Security Network, AMOTEKUN CORPS, as a response, is now not just the first line of defence, but the ultimate bulwark in the protection of a way of life and of a civilization.
“The efforts of our determined and valiant Amotekun personnel since inception must be underscored, encouraged and highly commended. We must all rise at this time to acknowledge their efforts.
“On our parts, we will continue to support the operational capacity of all security agencies in the State both in terms of equipment and the welfare of their personnel.
“The recent donation of 50-fitted patrol vehicles is a testament to our resolve to be up-to-date in fighting crime and criminality because without a secured environment, there can never be visible and sustained development.
“The Amotekun Corps must be given the tools to carry out its now pivotal, indispensable duties. For centuries, we have been admonished that “a bad workman blames his tools,” in the case of Amotekun Corps the workman is expected to function without good tools.
“It is not only absurd, but also a dereliction of duty and a cause of disaffection. Dissatisfaction is induced by a feeling of unfairness. The crises in the conventional wisdom is life-threatening and nationwide. Therefore, it is unacceptable if the state sanctions differing rules of engagement for different sub-national governments.
“Without providing the sub-national security forces to be a counter-balancing force we have a crisis which strikes at the heart of the conception and the definition of the state itself. It is not just the definition of the State, the State itself is under existential threat.
“The modern state is defined by Treaties. The conception of the modern state beatified by these treaties gives it “an incontestable monopoly of the means of violence, intimidation and coercion.”
“Those passing out today have undergone rigorous training at great expense to the state. The training will not end here it will be continuous. However, no amount of training will mask the debilitation of fighting with one arm tied against implacable foes.
“Amotekun must therefore be armed and will be armed and be backed by law. Otherwise, the training will be inadequate and we will be placing the lives of these great patriots in danger.
The colourful Passing Out Parade was attended by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; members of Ondo State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Bamidele Oleyelogun; the Chief Judge of the state represented by the High Court Registrar, Bolatito Ajibade; Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state, Ade Adetimehin; Commander, Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye; members of the State Executive Council led by Princess Oladunni Odu; traditional rulers; Heads of security agencies; local government chairmen; religious leaders;
In their separate goodwill messages, the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Kiladejo and the chairman of Idanre local government, Prince Kayode Aroloye, saluted the courage of Governor Akeredolu which has ensured improved security of lives and property of the citizens through the establishment of Amotekun Corps.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 26, 2022.
YOU ARE THE LEADER WE DESERVE – ONDO PDP SENATORIAL CANDIDATE, ADEDIPE, TELLS GOV AKEREDOLU
Senatorial Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo Central, Chief Ifedayo Adedipe, SAN, on Sunday paid a condolence visit to the State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN.
The PDP candidate and his team were received at the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Alagbaka, Akure.
The Governor also received in audience a prominent Niger Delta leader and entrepreneur, Senior High Chief Bibopere Ajube and Pastor Gbenga Akinbiyi of the PromisedLand Prophetic Ministries,Akure.
The Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Olugbenga Ale; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union matters and Special Duties, Mr. Dare Aragbaye, joined the Governor to receive the visitors.
The PDP Senatorial candidate, Adedipe, described the late mother of the Governor, Lady Evangelist Grace Bosede Akeredolu, as an uncommonly gifted mother.
He congratulated the Governor for witnessing the transition of his mother at old age.
Adedipe said: ”First of all, Mama was uncommonly gifted, having seven of you and all of you are alive. In her life time, all of you attained every considerable height. You were once the Attorney-General of this state and then the President of the Nigerian Bar Association.
“You attained the rank of senior advocate. You became a member of the Body of life Benchers and that is the height you could get to in the profession. People dream of all these. In her life time, God gifted you all these. Mama is what we call ‘Abiyamo Tooto’.
“I read in your tribute that she was a prayer warrior. Indeed, God answered her prayers. We thank God for her life, we thank God for your life. It is not all that aspire that get to the level of aspiration. But at God’s own time, everything falls in place for you. This is largely due to Mama’s prayers.
“I lost my mother about two years ago now. You came for the celebration. I know I am missing her motherly advice, I know you will miss your Mum too. So, you have my sympathy. You are my senior in the legal profession. As a Life Bencher, you are my leader.
“My friends and I came to commiserate with you. Regardless of how old they are, we will still miss them, the motherly love and care. But the good Lord that kept her to that level will continue to look after you and your siblings.
“It doesn’t matter how old you think you are, I pray that as long as you live, you will never mourn your children. You have been successful, your children will be more successful. You are well known in this country, your children will be well known better across the world.
“I appreciate you for your courage. You have led us very well in this State. I am particularly enamored with your activism. You are the only Governor talking about our security. You have been defending our people. Thank you, congratulations. You are indeed the leader we deserve.”
Also, prominent Niger Delta leader and entrepreneur, Senior High Chief Bibopere Ajube described the late Lady Evangelist Grace Bosede Akeredolu as a wonderful mother and sister.
Ajube, who led other chiefs and the APC candidate for Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency, Hon. Donald Ojogo on a condolence visit to the Governor, said the Ijaw people will be part of the celebration of life of the late mother of the Governor.
Responding, Governor Akeredolu thanked Adedipe and other members of his team for the visit.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 26, 2022.
Twenty-four Nigerians have filed a lawsuit against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for “failing to give them and other seven million Nigerians adequate time and opportunity to complete their voter registration after they have carried out their registration online.”
The Plaintiffs who are suing for themselves and on behalf of seven million other Nigerians want to “complete the registration process, so that they can obtain their permanent voter cards (PVCs), and exercise their right to vote.”
INEC recently disclosed that out of 10,487,972 Nigerians who carried out their pre-registration online, only 3,444,378 completed the process at a physical centre. This represents just 32.8 percent of completed online registration.
But in the suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1662/2022 filed last Friday at the Federal High Court, Abuja, the Plaintiffs are seeking “an order of mandamus to direct and compel INEC to re-activate its continuous voters registration exercise to allow the Plaintiffs to complete their registration and collect their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs).”
The Plaintiffs are also seeking “an order of mandamus to direct and compel INEC to provide adequate facilities and deploy personnel to the registration units of the Plaintiffs to enable them complete their registration and collect their PVCs.”
The Plaintiffs are arguing that, “We have completed the online registration exercise. Denying us the time and opportunity to complete the registration for our PVCs would impair our right to vote, and deny us a voice in the 2023 elections.”
The Plaintiffs are also arguing that, “The inability to complete our registration is entirely due to factors outside of our control. We are eligible Nigerians but unless we are given a reasonable time and opportunity to complete the registration process, and obtain our voter cards, we will not be able to vote in the 2023 general elections.”
The twenty-four Nigerians include: Adeeyo Bayo Wasiu; Kunat Tychius Amos; Tagbo Philips Chidubem; Emeghe Uchanma Grace; Ayoola Opeyemi Ebenezer; Eche Onah Otakpa; Olatoye Clement Damilola; and Ogunejiofor Raphael Emeka.
Others include: Adedotun Adegoke Babatunde; Emmanuel Promise Tochukwu; Emmanuel Ternajev; Joy Oluwadamilola Ige; Lawerence Ignatius; Agbede Kunle; Eze Daniel Ndubisi; and Nkemdilim Agbor Bassey.
Others are: Omoike Iredia Oseine; Joshua Patrick Ogenekaro; Wisdom Emeka; Ukpe Victor Destiny; Abayomi Opeoluwa; Ndubuisi Anthony Ahanihu; Akande Akintunde O; and Adamma Rhodes.
The suit filed on behalf of the Plaintiffs by lawyers to Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), Kolawole Oluwadare and Ms Adelanke Aremo, read in part: “Closing the gates on eligible Nigerians cannot preserve trust in the electoral process.”
“According to reports, the inability of Nigerians to complete their voters registration exercise or even transfer their permanent voters’ card, affected wide spectrums of persons, hence this class action by the identified plaintiffs on behalf of other affected Nigerians.”
“There were reports of incidence of bribery, unethical conducts of INEC staff, registration process marred by irregularities, insufficient machines, malfunctioning of machines, insufficient staff and unskilled staff, before the defendant ended the Continuous Voters Registration Exercise on the 31st July, 2022.”
“The right to vote is not merely the right to cast a ballot but also the right to be given the time and opportunity to complete the registration process, so that the right can be meaningfully and effectively exercised.”
“Any proffered justifications of saving time and cost are therefore wholly insufficient. Administrative convenience is simply not a compelling justification in light of the fundamental nature of the right to vote.”
“This severe vote deprivation cannot be justified by any perceived considerations of saving time, especially because Section 9(6) of the Electoral Act 2022 provides that ‘the registration of voters, updating and revision of the Register of Voters shall not stop not later than 90 days before any election covered by this Act.’”
“Providing fresh opportunity for the Plaintiffs and seven million other Nigerians to complete their registration would promote and preserve the right to vote, and ensure that legal and eligible voters are not inadvertently and unjustifiably turned away from exercising their fundamental right to vote.”
“The Plaintiffs are Nigerians who commenced the voters registration exercises in their respective states via successful online enrolment at the respective dates but could not complete the registration process, and obtain their voters cards.”
“The plaintiffs also include those who are interested in transferring their permanent voters’ cards to another location so that they can vote.”
“The Plaintiffs and other eligible Nigerians have the rights to equal treatment before the law, equal protection, non-discrimination and equal opportunities to participate in the government of Nigeria.”
“By refusing the Plaintiffs and seven million other Nigerians the opportunity to complete the registration for their PVCs, INEC have unfairly, unreasonably, and unjustifiably denied them the opportunity to be heard at a meaningful time and in a meaningful manner as to the reasons for not completing their registration.”
“The Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended) provides in Section 14(1)(c) that, ‘the participation by the people in their government shall be ensured in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.’”
“Similarly, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance guarantee the right to political participation, including the right to vote.”
“The Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), recently disclosed that over seven million Nigerians who carried out their voter pre-registration online could not complete the process at physical centres.”
“According to a report released by INEC, out of 10,487,972 Nigerians who carried out their pre-registration online, only 3,444,378 Nigerians representing 32.8 percent, completed the process at a physical centre. 7,043,594 Nigerians carried out their pre-registration but are yet to complete the process at a physical centre.”
“This represents over 67 percent of those who began their registration process online. According to INEC, a total of 12,298,944 Nigerians completed their voter registration; 8,854,566 of which were persons who did their registration entirely at a physical centre.”
“The Plaintiffs and seven million other Nigerians have already completed their registration online, that is, via INEC online portal by providing their biodata and required documents.”
“According to INEC, the process that is outstanding for the applicants to complete the registration for their PVCs is to visit INEC designated centres for their biometric to be captured.”
No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
18/9/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
Niger Delta women denounce NDDC IMC promoters
Women in the Niger Delta on Friday denounced promoters of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) interim management committee, describing them as the greatest friends of illegality and the most pronounced foes of the region.
‘’The interim management committee will breed hostility among the oil states in the country. The inauguration of substantive board is the best possible course under existing circumstances’’
They also urged President Muhammadu Buhari to dramatize the end of one man or a three man rule in the commission.
At a gathering in Port Harcourt, the women appealed to leaders of key nations and world statesmen to implore Buhari to constitute the commission’s board.
‘’It would be a tragedy if Mr President let himself be diverted from consideration of the NDDC Board by the proposal of another interim management committee. Such a tendency shows a singular lack of understanding of the region’s problems and a failure to remember the larger purposes for which the NDDC was established. The composition of a substantive board is primary and fundamental’’
They also appealed to presidential candidates, traditional rulers and religious leaders to impress on President Muhammadu Buhari to constitute a board for the Commission.
The women described interim management committee agitators as predators, destroyers and zombies.
A statement read to newsmen by the President of Niger Delta Women in Politics (NDWIP), Chief Josephine Ekong said without the board, it would be practically impossible to assume a leading role in attempting to bring about a lasting peace and development in the oil rich region’’
‘’At inception, NDDC gave the Niger Delta people new confidence and a tremendous sense of regional solidarity. It taught the people the meaning of development’’.
The women said they would have nothing to do with the interim management committee or another sole administrator.
‘’The delay in constituting the board and the zero implementation of the recommendations of the NDDC Forensic Audit Report are enough to move the people of the region to anger.
They expressed complete satisfaction over the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Mr Umana Okon Umana’s good faith.
The women also praised the NDDC Sole Administrator, Mr Effiong Akwa for displaying leadership.
‘’The obligation of the government is to supply the focal point where problems could be integrated and resolved. The way out lies not in attempting to sack Akwa and putting in place interim management committee but in completely inaugurating the commission’s board’’
PRESIDENT BUHARI ATTENDS 77TH UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY
President Muhammadu Buhari will depart Abuja, Sunday, September 18, for New York, United States to attend the annual meeting of world leaders, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA77).
The theme for the 77th session which opened on Tuesday, September 13 is: “A watershed Moment: Transformative Solutions to Interlocking Challenges.”
Key topics of discussion at the UNGA this year include; the war in Ukraine, the energy crisis, climate action, ending the COVID-19 pandemic, and a special Transforming Education Summit.
President Buhari will take his turn to deliver the National Statement on the second day of the General Debates on Wednesday, September 21.
Aside his Statement, the President will also participate in High Level meetings and side events including the Nigeria International Economic Partnership Forum (NIEPF), convened by Nigeria in partnership with the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU); Strengthening Coordination through National Humanitarian Development Peace (NHDP) Framework: A practical approach to sustainable durable solutions to ensure no one is left behind, organised by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development; and the EFCC-NEPAD Programme on combating Illicit Financial Flows.
President Buhari will also hold strategic bilateral meetings with World Leaders, renowned investors and heads of multinational organisations while in New York.
On the entourage of the President are the First Lady, Aisha Buhari, some Governors, Ministers and top government officials.
The President is expected back in the country on Monday, September 26.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 17, 2022
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2022:
MY RESPONSE TO THE CALL BY LABOUR PARTY TO PLACE ME UNDER SECURITY WATCH
I also call on the Security Agencies in Nigeria to place Mr. Peter Obi and some of his demented supporters on the terror watch lists for circulating an incendiary video with a fake message by one of his supporters called Powell Glad Legbe (on his Facebook page) calling on Yorubas not to vote for Peter Obi. Mr. Peter Obi then wrongly and wickedly attributed that quote to an amorphous ‘Tinubu group’. Up till now he has not withdrawn his accusation nor has he apologised to our candidate Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
It is obvious Mr. Peter Obi wants to cause religious and tribal crises in the country and for this I call on the security agencies to place Mr. Peter Obi on security watch or invite him for thorough investigation. If necessary, I am prepared to be invited too as a witness to prove my case against him.
Thank you.
FESTUS KEYAMO, SAN FCIArb(UK)
– Director, Public Affairs and Chief Spokesperson,
APC Presidential Campaign Council
– Honourable Minister of State,
Ministry of Labour and Employment,
Federal Republic of Nigeria.
ONLY FEW CAN RIVAL MAMA’S ACHIEVEMENTS IN HER LIFETIME – ONDO EXCO MEMBERS
Members of the Ondo State Executive Council on Saturday paid a condolence visit to the State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, over the death of his mother, Lady Evangelist Grace Akeredolu (JP).
Governor Akeredolu and his wife, Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, received the Exco members at the Kopindogba residence of the late Lady Evangelist Akeredolu in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.
The Exco members and the Forum of Permanent Secretaries were led by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
They commiserated with the Governor and his siblings and congratulated them for surviving their mother.
The Deputy Governor, who spoke on behalf of the State Executive Council and Forum of Permanent Secretaries, said the late Lady Evangelist Akeredolu lived a fulfilled life.
He noted that not too many mothers can rival what the late Lady Evangelist achieved in her lifetime.
“She produced seven wonderful children who are doing so well in their areas of core competence. To even have produced a two-term governor of a State is a great thing.
“Not even after her death, but when she was still alive, she witnessed the success of one of her children as two-term governor, chairman of South-West Governors’ Forum, chairman of Southern Governors’ Forum, President of the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, and Senior Advocate of Nigeria.
“So, Mama has lived a fulfilled life. And that is the aspect of joy. It is a mixed feelings. We commiserate with you. All of us, the Cabinet members, the Permanent Secretaries, and the entire poeple of Ondo State we are representing here. We also thank God for your life and that of your siblings,” the Deputy Governor said.
Hon. Aiyedatiwa added that the late Mama has done so well and impacted so many lives.
“Sir, we, members of the Cabinet of the Government of Ondo State, and some other staff, the Permanent Secretaries, are here to commiserate with you on the loss of your dearly beloved mother, Mama Lady Evangelist Grace Abosede Akeredolu, a nonagenarian.
“The second is to also thank God for you, members of your family, your siblings and the entire Akeredolu’s family for surviving your aged mother. Sir, at the break of the news in the wee hour of Thursday, the 15th of September, some of us made phone calls to express our heartfelt sympathy. Some in text messages, all of us have expressed our condolences.
“But we owe you the honour of coming here physically to commiserate with you and also solidarise with you at this time. That is why we are here corporately as a body. We, therefore, commiserate with you on the loss of Mama, a nonagenarian.
“The death of an aged mother comes with mixed feelings, the feelings of love, of grief, of pain that you will not have the opportunity of having a daily interaction with her again.
“It can be so painful. So, we identify with you and pray that the vacuum she has left will be filled by God Himself, who has taken her home. As human, we will grieve but God has taken her home.
“We pray that God will console you, your siblings and the entire family, and grant you the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
“The other feeling is a feeling of some level of thanksgiving and joy that you and your siblings are able to survive the aged mother. Not too many people have that opportunity to have an aged mother, a nonagenarian that was able to live a fulfilled life, seeing all her children doing very well in her lifetime.
“Mama has done so well, impacted so many lives. She was a benefactor to some of us one way or the other, either directly or indirectly. She prayed for all of us at her 90th birthday. I know that on daily basis, she prayed for you and those who are working with you. These prayers were answered for all of us.
“We thank God for her life, and indirectly, for all that you have done for Ondo State. Your wonderful programmes and projects and what Arabinrin has also done to impact live across board.
So, we want to thank God for the life she lived and that you are all alive to survive her. Congratulations, sir, and God bless you sir,” the Deputy Governor said.
Responding, Governor Akeredolu described his late mother as a wonderful woman who was prayerful and caring.
The Governor thanked members of the state executive council and the forum of Permanent Secretaries for coming from Akure to Ibadan to condole him and members of his family.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 17, 2022.
PRESS STATEMENT
APC is putting machinery in motion to win the federal elections
The attention of the APC Presidential Campaign Council has been drawn to a poll conducted by the NOI polls which made wild and incredible permutations on the presidential elections.
We are unperturbed by these dubious and unreliable statistics because our research shows that NOI Polls have been off the mark at critical election periods in recent times.
For example, preparatory to the March 2015 presidential elections, NOI published in October 2014 the results of a “Viability Poll” which used the concepts of Familiarity and Net Favourability Position to survey.
In the results, NOI claimed that President Goodluck Jonathan has the best overall familiarity rating at 99% and Net Favourability Probability of ±25.
By contrast, NOI dismissed the then All Progressives Congress candidate, Muhammadu Buhari as a “borderline candidate” who needed ” huge public relations” to shore up his performance.
But when the Nigerian people went to the polls, who won? The APC candidate and now President, Muhammadu Buhari.
This is not the only instance when the NOI has turned its political bias in an election period to fraudulent statistics.
Towards the 2019 presidential elections, and knowing fully that President Muhammadu Buhari was going for re-election for a second term in office, the NOI pollsters embarked on another abracadabra. In June 2017, they issued the results of another poll, that Nigerians prefer a middle-aged president claiming that this poll was inspired by the election of Macron as the president of France and the campaign of the Not Too Young To Run. According to the predictable bias, NOI claimed that 64% said they would prefer to vote for a presidential candidate between the ages of 40 and 50 years and 15% preferred candidates between 51 and 60. In short, for a presidential candidate in his 70s running for re-election, NOI results meant certain defeat.
But when the Nigerian people went to the polls on February 23, 2019, the man the NOI polls had tried to bully with statistics out of the race won again.
It is significant that at the time NOI was generating the unrealistic figures to boost the ego of President Jonathan, a more serious and independent team of pollsters- Neo-Telligence based in the United Kingdom used geo-demographics and public sentiment analysis to forecast the emergence of President Buhari. By contrast, their empirical analysis showed that two years before the 2015 presidential elections, Goodluck Jonathan’s public approval rating on corruption, insecurity and the economy had nosedived across most of the battleground states.
Our objective profiling of NOI Polls as an anti-APC research organisation is grounded on the aforesaid facts and that is why we believe this present report is, in the language of Nigerians, “*wuruwuru to the answer”.
The NOI has chosen the preferred candidate and has decided to use fake, dubious statistics to package him to the Nigerian voters.
We know as a matter of fact, the owners of NOI and where their political interest lies and wish to advise NOI to stop polluting the political system with irresponsible, unscientific and biased polling so that we don’t expose the puppeteers pulling it’s strings.
Our party is putting machinery in motion to win the federal elections with a margin that will be too wide to contest. Our candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu recorded the highest votes of a senator across the country under the Social Democratic Party in July 1992. He will do it on nationwide scale on February 25.2023.
Bayo Onanuga
Director,
Media and Publicity
All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council
MY MOTHER WAS A PRAYER WARRIOR, GREAT MUM TO US – GOV AKEREDOLU
More dignitaries have continued to visit Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, over the death of his mother, Lady Evangelist Grace Akeredolu (JP).
The Oniju of Iju-odo, Oba Festus Olumoyegun; the Organised Labour in Ondo State; Local Government Vice Chairmen; Senatorial candidate of the APC In Ondo Central Senatorial district, Niyi Adegbonmire (SAN); and Mr. Diran Iyantan were among the early callers at the Kopindogba residence of the Late Lady Evangelist Akeredolu on Saturday.
They were received by Governor Akeredolu, his wife, Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, and siblings.
Oba Olumoyegun described the deceased as an achiever who witnessed the successes of her children before passing on to eternal glory.
The monarch disclosed that his decision to visit the Governor in Ibadan to identify with him was hinged on the various achievements of the Governor in Ikaleland.
He promised to support the Governor in giving his mother a befitting burial.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Ondo State, Comrade Sunday Oluwole Adeleye, who led the delegation of Organised Labour, congratulated the Governor for surviving his mother.
“We are here to celebrate with you that you survive your mother. We rejoice with you that you are the one burying your mother and not the other way round. We share in your grief,” Adeleye said.
Governor Akeredolu appreciated the monarch and the organised Labour for finding time to pay him a condolence visit.
The Governor described his late mother as a prayer warrior who served God wholeheartedly in her lifetime.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 17, 2022.
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU COMMISERATES WITH AKEREDOLU OVER MOTHER’S DEATH
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has commiserated with his Ondo State counterpart, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), on the death of his mother, Lady Evangelist Grace Akeredolu.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, urged Governor Akeredolu, the deceased family, friends and entire people of Owo and Ondo State in general to preserve the legacy of love and prayers left behind the deceased.
He also urged members of the Christian community to immortalise the good name of the late nonagenarian and her service in God’s vineyard.
He said: “On behalf of the State Government, good people of Lagos State and my adorable wife, Ibijoke, I sympathise with my brother, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, on the demise of his beloved mother and matriarch of the family, Lady Evangelist Grace Akeredolu.
“I also send my heartfelt condolences to all the children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family members and entire people of Owo and Ondo State over the death of Mama Akeredolu.
“Mama was a strong supporter and pillar of Governor Akeredolu and without any iota of doubt, she contributed to the success of all her children as a principled, disciplined and committed mother. She also trained her children and those around her in the way of God.
“As an evangelist, she served God and humanity passionately using her gift and talent to win souls for God and minister to people around her. She was an apostle of God and remained committed to God till her passing on Thursday.
“The elderly and wise counsel of Mama would be sorely missed. I pray God will grant the deceased eternal rest and grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
15 SEPTEMBER 2022
Wrangling in PDP part of democracy – Atiku Campaign Organization
The Atiku Abubakar Presidential Campaign Organisation has described the disagreements within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as one of the characteristics of democratic governance.
Spokesperson of the Atiku Abubakar Presidential Campaign Organisation, Mr. Charles Aniagwu stated this while answering questions on Arise Television on Thursday.
He said that PDP as a national party was committed to the ideals of freedom of speech and expression as guaranteed by the Nigeria constitution, adding that individuals in the party were exercising their democratic rights and helping to widen the democratic space.
Aniagwu who is also Delta State Commissioner for Information, said, “Atiku is a man of character who keeps his words if he says look we are going to run a government that will rescue Nigeria he knows that for him to do that, every segment of the society must be carried along and that includes our brothers and sisters in South West.
“What Atiku wants is to have a very peaceful government so that at the end of the day he is able to unite the country and because he believes that for him to be able to drive the economic polices he needs to first of all bring everybody on board.
“To unite the country he is trying to bring individuals who have the ability whether they are in the diaspora or other political parties, once you have got the quality to be effective he brings you in.
“What is happening within the PDP is democracy at play and even in the midst of the disagreements, the PDP is still far ahead of any other political party.
“Our candidate is the only person that has been able to show Nigerians that he has a policy framework that he will use to rescue Nigerian.
“No other candidate has been able to produce anyone even from those parties you think they are quiet without any crisis.
“Our candidate is very much prepared and he has gone ahead to make a public presentation of what he intends to do with the economy.
“So in spite of what you are hearing as disagreements, the PDP and our presidential candidate are far ahead of other parties that tend to have what we may call the peace of the grave yard,” Aniagwu said.
He commended Nigerians for their interest in the unity of the PDP and for the confidence reposed in the party to rescue Nigerians assuring that the crisis would soon be over.
“What Atiku is looking forward to is not just to get individuals on board for the purpose of getting the votes, Atiku is Interested in uniting the entire country but he is starting with the PDP.
“To be able to unite a country that is so disjointed on account of the mismanagement of our diversity is not something that you will just do in one night.
“You heard the Presidential candidate when he said he doesn’t have any problems with individual asking Ayu to step down but that for us to do so, we must also not look at the principles of the end justifying the means, we must also look at the processes that will lead us to the end in which case we need to bring to bear the provisions of the constitution of the PDP.
He called on the people of the South West to be patient with the party as issues being raised by stakeholders were being resolved in the interest of the rescue mission.
“If you listened to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state and other leaders of the party in the South West, they clearly acknowledged that by the grace of God, Atiku will become the next President of Nigeria.
“What does that tell you, it means that we have been able to move the beam from where some persons are reluctant to join the boat to where they have now joined the boat and are now looking at what part of the seat would they take in order for them to sit comfortably.
“So the South West is for PDP and other members have declared full support for Atiku Abubakar but they are saying can we do this?
“I asked the question, does Atiku Abubakar have the power to remove Ayu? No, he doesn’t have that power. And as a man who believes in the rule of law, he is not going to do that.
“The constitution of the party is very clear on this. If you go to the constitution of the party, you will discover in Section 45 of the constitution that for you to remove the chairman of the party or for him to resign, certain processes need to be activated.
“When the chairman resigns or he is removed, the Deputy national chairman who is from the same region as the chairman will automatically have to step in.
“But beyond that, in the PDP, the third in line is the National Secretary and as we speak, it’s in southern part of the country. There are some hierarchical forms of arrangement in the party.
“The National Organising Secretary usually comes from the same region where the chairman comes from for ease of operations.
“How do you now deal with the Deputy national chairman who must come from the same region as the chairman and must step in, in the event of the chairman’s removal?
“So for you to demand that the chairman moves to the south, you must first of all solve these two puzzles. Even after you have solved these puzzles, you must also come back to begin to look at the issue of the national secretary of the party.
“These are constitutional provisions that you must look at and know whether you have the strength to offend those constitutional provisions and still remain very healthy within the party.
“It means that the resignation of the national chairman is not even the main issue but to move the chairmanship position from the north to the south is a very big issue that will alter all other arrangements within the party and we have just five months to a general election.
“So the leadership of the party is pleading with the people who believe that there is need to make that move for the purpose of equity to tarry awhile.
“Once we are able to deal with the big elephant in the house, which is organising to be able to win the general elections, then we can now come back to look at that movement of the chairman to the south,” Aniagwu added.
On the attempt to challenge the use of Bimodal Voter Accreditation System BVAS in court, Aniagwu described the move as unrealistic as BVAS was provided for in the Electoral Act 2022 as amended.
He called on the National Assembly to reject any INEC nominee identified to be card carrying members of any political party to retain the independence and integrity of the electoral umpire.
“The BIVAS is backed by law and by virtue of the Nigeria constitution, INEC is empowered by law to manage elections in the country and the Electoral Act empowers INEC to further prescribe rules guiding to conduct of elections,” he stated.
PRESS RELEASE
2023: SHETTIMA, SANWO-OLU, OTHERS DRUM SUPPORT FOR TINUBU
…Sanwo-Olu: APC Candidate Most Credible To Succeed Buhari
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and vice presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Kashim Shettima, on Thursday, said the APC National Leader and presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu is the most qualified with the capacity to lead Nigeria among all the presidential candidates contesting to succeed President Muhammadu Buhari in May 29, 2023.
Speaking during the 95+1 anniversary lecture of the Yoruba Tennis Club held at the club’s Greeting Hall in Lagos, Governor Sanwo-Olu and Shettima urged Nigerians to vote for capacity during the 2023 presidential elections and shun religious sentiments.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who urged Nigerians not to allow religious division, especially with respect to the APC Muslim-Muslim joint ticket for the presidential poll, said electing the next President of Nigeria should be about leadership, character, audacity to think and ability to think deeply and solve problems.
He said: “There is nothing in the issue of a Muslim-Muslim Ticket. I am a Christian and my wife is a Christian but we know too well that it is not about religion. We have forgotten that in 2011 the Action Congress of Nigeria fielded Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and his vice presidential candidate, Mr. Fola Adeola in a Muslim-Muslim ticket. We did not see any problem at that time.
“But suddenly because there is a likelihood of this ticket (Tinubu-Shettima) emerging as a winner, people now want to divide us. We will say no because that is not who we are. It is about leadership. It is about character. It is about the audacity to think. It is about the ability to be able to think deeply and solve problems.
“We do not want to despise other candidates. We all know too well what their antecedents are. We all know too what their credentials are. But we know that as a nation, we need a strong launch pad. We need to think out of the box and be able to put our best foot forward.
“I want to thank the leadership of the Yoruba Tennis Club again for making the right choice by inviting Senator Kashim Shettima to deliver the anniversary lecture. We are celebrating 96 years now and let it be on record that by 2026 during our centenary celebration, by the grace of God, we will have Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu coming here to celebrate with us as President on our centenary and of course by your grace and your support, I will still remain as your 15th Governor, coming here and celebrate in four years time and all of you will be here.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu also charged Yoruba people and residents of Lagos State to work toward the emergence of Asiwaju Tinubu as the next President of Nigeria. “We deserve to produce the next president. In Lagos we deserve it. Lagos requires it and it would be by the grace of God a bigger, better and stronger nation and state that all of you would be truly proud of to have been part of,” he said.
In his address, Senator Kashim titled, “Social Club and the search for a national cohesion in Nigeria,” described Asiwaju Bola Tinubu as an excellent example of national cohesion.
Shettima, a former Governor of Borno State, said the Tinubu-Shettima ticket was dedicated to the building of a progressive and united country, that would allow for harnessing the very best that the country had to offer, adding that candidacy will rekindle the spirit of patriotism and draw on all the positive lessons from the commendable history of the Yoruba Tennis Club.
He said: “We have seen the emergence of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the presidential candidate of the APC. We are convinced that the general political situation in Nigeria needs the competencies of a detribalized and committed Nigerian, like, ABAT (Tinubu), to re-ignite the requisite values that can help us rededicate ourselves and all Nigerians to collectively tackle the challenges of national cohesion.
“The 2023 general elections are just a few months away and Nigerians have a choice to make, in the determination of our destiny.
“In 2023, we need a Nigerian leader that has the humility and generosity of spirit of General Yakubu Gowon. We need a leader that has the commitment of Muhammadu Buhari.
”We need a leader that has the work ethic and broad-mindedness of an Olusegun Obasanjo. We need a leader that has the situational pragmatism and understanding of Nigeria’s security, the maradonic skill of an Ibrahim Babangida.
”We need a leader with a vision and sense of responsibility and commitment and somebody who understands the nation like an Abdulsalami Abubakar and in our systemic circumstances, we need a leader with a dose of the hospitality of a Sani Abacha.
”We need a leader with the intellectual acumen, with the action to catapult this nation to a higher pedestrian. We need a leader who is not bound by regional or religious sentiment.
”We need a leader that has established such records of excellence and commitment to good governance. There is no one, with all due respect, that fits this than Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
Shettima also commended Yoruba Tennis Club’s leadership and members for sustaining one of the foremost social clubs in Nigeria in the last 96 years.
“We must get our politics right, in the same patriotic manner that the Founding Fathers of the Yoruba Tennis Club, and their successors, got it right, and have kept it going for 96 years. Social clubs play a vital role in the process of national cohesion.
“Inadvertently, you (Yoruba Tennis Club) have taught the lesson of brotherhood and enduring legacy having survived all the challenges of the past 96 years. This statement of success and continuity is a lesson we must take on board if we are to build a great country,” he said.
In his address, the Chairman of the Yoruba Tennis Club, Chief Babajide Damazio, said the club since its existence in 1926 has witnessed many seasons of bloom and gloom, and therefore enjoined members to continuously celebrate the essence of their togetherness.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
15 SEPTEMBER 2022
Delta establishes 22 new schools
In a bid to expand the frontiers of its educational development, Delta State Government (DTSG) has approved the establishment 22 new schools comprising 9 primary and 13 secondary schools across the state.
The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Noel Omodon disclosed this on Thursday evening at Government House, Asaba, while briefing journalists on some of the decisions reached at the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting presided over by the Deputy Governor of the state, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro.
Omodon pointed out that the new primary and secondary schools were approved by the state exco in response to the demand for schools in areas where such educational facilities were lacking.
Apart from the approval for the establishment of the new schools, he said, Exco also, approved the change of name and status of some of the existing primary and secondary schools in the state.
According to him, the payment of the counterpart funding for the UBE 2022 cycle was approved by the Exco to strengthen the delivery of qualitative educational services aimed at further promoting mass literacy in the state.
The Works Commissioner also disclosed that approval for the supply of laboratory/workshop equipment to University of Delta was equally approved by Exco to enhance academic activities in the university.
“The establishment of nine new primary and 13 new secondary schools in the state was approved by the state Exco in areas where there is demand for schools to cater for the shortfalls in those areas.
“Approval was also given by Exco for the change of name and status of some of the existing primary and secondary schools in the state, the Commissioner added.
On the Kwale Industrial Park, Omodon said Exco approved investment into a modern production facility at the park where things like flat bars, nails, screws and angle among others would be produced, adding that the state government had equally approved equity participation at the Kwale free zone (Industrial Park).
“The Emevor/Ivrogbor/Orogun Road phase l that has been an issue in Isoko area and Samagidi/Izejagbo Village Road in Ethiope East were approved for construction.
“In the capital territory, we approved Edwin Uzor/Chukwudi Dafe Road, Ambassador Leo Okogwu Road and Ogongosu Road to enhance good road network in the territory.
“Exco also approved Egodon Agodobiri Road in Burutu, Ogbudugburu Road in Warri North, Dr. James Fakejeme Julius Layout Road and Ovwor Township Road, he said.
Under the Girls Entrepreneurship and Skills Training (GEST) Programme, Omodon said, the state Exco gave approval for the training of 500 young women to boost the employment generation and wealth creation drive of the Okowa led administration in the state.
While saying that some funds have been approved by Exco for the completion of the Ogheye floating market, the Commissioner pointed out that approval was also given for the reactivation of the Warri/Effurun Water Project.
“We approved participation with a private agency in the Warri/Effurun Water Project and we are going to guarantee some of the funds by APG so that we can get the water facility functional,” he stated.
PRESIDENT BUHARI CELEBRATES FORMER MINISTER OF FINANCE, SHAMSUDDEEN USMAN AT 73
President Muhammadu Buhari joins family members and friends to rejoice with former Minister of Finance, Shamsuddeen Usman, who clocks 73 on September 18, 2022, extolling the economist, banker and administrator for his unique influence on Nigeria’s economic growth.
The President congratulates Usman, who was also Minister of National Planning, for pivotal leadership roles in the private and public sector, setting the framework for the country’s long term development strategy, Vision 2020, and National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan.
As the first Minister of Finance to publicly declare his asset before assuming duty, President Buhari affirms that the hallmark of integrity, discipline and diligence guides the public servant, whose experience continues to inspire younger generations on the value of patriotism, honour and dignity.
The President prays for the wellbeing of Usman and his family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 17, 2022
Akeredolu’s Mum, Queen Elizabeth II: The Righteous Left Together In Honour – Jimoh Ibrahim
…As He sends condolence messages
Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim CFR, billionaire business mogul and the candidate of All Progressives Congress(APC) in Ondo South senatorial district for 2023 general elections, has described the transitions of the mother of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu and Queen Elizabeth II of England as exit of the righteous in honour.
This was contained in his condolence messages to the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu and Prince Charles of Wales (the king apparent of England) upon the passage of their mothers, Lady Evangelist Grace Akeredolu and Queen Elizabeth II respectively.
Pointing out the similarities in the death of the nonagenarians, Dr. Ibrahim who recently graduated from University of Cambridge and awarded First-ever Doctor of Business by the varsity, noted that “Queen Elizabeth II, the UK’s longest-serving monarch, died at Balmoral at age of 96, after reigning for 70 years.
“She died peacefully on Thursday afternoon at her Scottish estate, where she had spent much of the summer.
“The Queen came to the throne in 1952 and witnessed enormous social change.
“Likewise, our mother, Lady Evangelist Grace Akeredolu died peacefully in her sleep early on Thursday morning. Mama was 90 years.
“Both of them lived an enviable life and were known as true apostles of Christ Jesus propagating His gospel.
“Mama lived a godly life. She was a leading example to up and coming mothers and a unique disciplinarian during her hay days.
“She was a caring-mother which actually radiated till date in the lives of her children.
“She dedicated her life to God till her last moment with us here on earth.
“We are happy that she lived till a ripe age due to the grace she received from God Almighty.
“Despite this, we will still miss her.
“May the souls of the Queen and Matriarch of the Akeredolu dynasty rest in peace.
“I enjoined the king apparent of England and the grand-children and great grand-children of the Queen to take solace in the good life she lived.
I condole with our governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, and his siblings as well as the grand-children and great grand-children to rejoice in the Lord because Mama lived to witness them rise to the peak of their individual careers.”
APC cause of poverty, hunger in Nigeria – Okowa
Governor of Delta and Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, on Saturday said rising hunger and poverty in the country was caused by poor management of the nation’s economy by ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
He stated this at an empowerment programme for the people of Ika Federal Constituency by the Member representing the constituency at the House of Representatives, Mr Victor Nwokolo, at Boji-Boji Owa, Ika North East Local Government Area.
The Governor who was in company with the Speaker of the State House of Assembly and PDP Governorship Candidate in the state, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori and State Chairman of PDP, Chief Kingsley Esiso, commended Nwokolo for his gesture in giving hope to the hopeless, describing the event as “empowerment programme with a difference”
He said that Nigeria was troubled because people were hungry and out of job due to mismanagement of the nation’s economy.
He added that even students were having lots of challenges because their parents could not meet their needs owing to the level of poverty resulting from ineptitude of the APC-led Federal Government.
Okowa, therefore, urged Nigerians to support the PDP, saying it was the only party with clear understanding of the nation’s challenges and had clear solution to rescue the nation.
“The important thing is that we know the issues troubling our nation and we have a clear pathway for rescuing and rebuilding the nation,” he said.
He commended Nwokolo for empowerment and noted that it was a show of love to the people and prayed that the beneficiaries would utilise the items and equipment for the common good of the people.
“I also pray that the students who benefitted from this gesture will study hard and become successful for the good of their families and our people,” he stated.
Earlier, Nwokolo had said that his motive for the empowerment was to restore hope to the hopeless amid rising hunger and poverty in the land.
He commended Governor Okowa for providing leadership and for his efforts in empowering the people through the various entrepreneurial programmes of the state.
Items presented at the ceremony include cars, mini buses, tricycles, cassava processing machines, oil processing mills, block processing equipment, generators, transformers, sewing machines, educational grant and motor cycles.
PRESIDENT BUHARI COMMISERATES WITH GOVERNOR AKEREDOLU OVER MOTHER’S DEATH
President Muhammadu Buhari extends condolences to Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State and his family on the passing of their beloved mother, Mrs Grace Akeredolu.
The President urges the Akeredolu family members to draw strength from the life lessons taught by Mama, the values of care and compassion she inculcated in them and the sacrifices she made for her children to succeed in life.
President Buhari prays for the peaceful repose of the soul of the departed, and urges the family to hold fast to their faith and trust in God to guide them through this difficult period.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 16, 2022
Delta’s healthcare investment to curb medical tourism – Okowa
Delta Governor, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, on Saturday, said the huge investment being made by his administration in the health sector was to improve healthcare delivery and reduce medical tourism in the country.
Okowa who is the Vice-Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), disclosed this in an interview with journalists shortly after inspecting facilities at the Advanced Diagnostic Medical Centre and Mother and Child Hospital, Owa-Alero in Ika North-East Local Government Area of the state.
He said that the twin medical facilities would, on completion, reduce medical tourism as it would provide first-class medical services to people who would have sought medical treatment abroad.
While saying that the Mother and Child Hospital would take care of every illness concerning women and children, the Governor said the Advanced Diagnostic Medical Center would take care of all manner of investigative procedures in radiology and other laboratory analyses.
“I am glad that we have gotten to this place. I had high hopes that by today, we would have inaugurated these projects.
“We are working behind time, there is no doubt about that but I have just been reassured that in the next one month, the projects would be ready.
“The equipment is fully on site and we are trying to get things fully sorted out and I am sure that in the next one month, it should be ready and opened to the public for use.
“The two projects are obviously very important. The Mother and Child, as it is so stated, is supposed to take care of every illness concerning our women and children.
“The Advanced Diagnostic Center is going to take care of all manners of investigative procedures both in radiology and other laboratory analysis that they have to do.
“The Advanced Diagnostic Medical Center is also going to be a center that would be involved in treatments. There is equipment in here. But until they finish with this construction, they would not be fully installed,” he said.
Speaking further, Governor Okowa said the key infrastructural projects being executed by his administration would be inaugurated between November and December, this year.
However, he pointed out that many of the projects executed by his administration, especially the multiple road projects, were already being put to use by Deltans as soon as they were completed, adding that he doesn’t have to go and start inaugurating all them before they can be put to use.
On the new technical colleges in the state, the Governor said students were already being admitted into three of them which he listed to include Uvwie, Obiaruku and Asaba Technical Colleges, adding that Asaba and Uvwie Technical Schools will commence academic activities by next week while that of Obiaruku will start in October, this year.
“Those schools are really well planned and we have lots of equipment to teach the children. The academic and non-academic staff have already been engaged and they are undergoing some trainings now.
“There are still so many other projects that are ongoing. For instance, the 160kms dualisation that we are constructing from Asaba to Ughelli is one of them.
“We also have several bridges that we are constructing. I intend to pay a visit to one or two of them. I also hope I find time to go through Trans-Warri Road and bridges.
“I believe that between now and December, a lot of key projects would be brought to completion and we will be inaugurating projects in the dry season. September and October are still raining season and I would not want to fix project inauguration within this period of time.
“But for any project that is completed, we put it to use. It does not have to wait for inauguration because the project is for the people, inauguration is fun fare,” the governor added.
ASUU STRIKE: PRESIDENT BUHARI MEETS WITH PRO-CHANCELLORS OF VARSITIES, PROMISES FURTHER CONSULTATIONS
President Muhammadu Buhari Friday at State House, Abuja, met with the Chairman and select members of Pro-Chancellors of Federal Universities, promising to engage in further consultations with relevant stakeholders, towards ending the protracted strike by university lecturers, under the aegis of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
The President said without necessarily going back on what is already established policy, “I will make further consultations, and I’ll get back to you.”
The Pro-Chancellors were led to the meeting by Professor Nimi Briggs, who said they had come to meet with the President in three capacities: “As President and Commander-in-Chief, as father of the nation, and as Visitor to the Federal universities.”
He added that despite the pall cast by more than seven months of industrial action, “the future of university system in the country is good,” citing as example the recent listing of the University of Ibadan among the first 1,000 universities in the world, a development occurring for the first time.
Prof Briggs commended Federal Government for concessions already made to the striking lecturers, including the offer to raise salaries by 23.5% across board, and 35% for Professors. He, however, asked for “further inching up of the salary, in view of the economic situation of the country.”
The Pro-Chancellors also asked for a reconsideration of the No-Work, No-Pay stance of government, promising that lecturers would make up for time lost as soon as an amicable situation was reached, and schools reopened.
Minister of State for Education, Goodluck Nana Opiah, said all the concessions made by Federal Government were to ensure that the industrial action comes to an end, but ASUU has remained adamant.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
September 16, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI REJOICES WITH HIS HOLINESS, MOST REV DR RUFUS OKIKIOLA OSITELU ON ELECTION AS PRESIDENT OF WCC FOR AFRICA
President Muhammadu Buhari shares in the joy of elevation for The Church of the Lord (TCL) Worldwide and entire Body of Christ, with election of His Holiness, The Most Rev. Dr. Rufus Okikiola Olubiyi Ositelu as President of World Council of Churches (WCC) for Africa.
The President warmly congratulates the Primate of TLC, Dr Ositelu, who made history as first African from an African Instituted Church and first head of Church in Nigeria to occupy the respected position of WCC President for Africa since it was formed in Amsterdam, Netherlands in 1948.
President Buhari appreciates the delegates at the 11th WCC General Assembly on September 5th, 2022 in Karlsruhe Germany for the honour and recognition, after taking into consideration the Primate’s love for God, sacrifice for others and dedication to service of humanity, especially in Nigeria.
The President believes the election of Dr Ositelu to the exalted and esteemed position further highlights the efforts in spreading the gospel of Christ, particularly in Nigeria, and the impact of the good work, which has brought transformed many lives, lifted many homes and shown the way of hope and righteousness for the fallen, desperate and hopeless.
Dr. Ositelu, who is the incumbent and fourth Primate of TCL Worldwide, was the former Vice President of the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) and served successfully as a member of WCC central committee – the highest decision-making body of the WCC.
The President prays that the Almighty God who has favoured the Primate, will grant him good health, strength and wisdom to deliver on the mandate.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 15, 2022
NIGERIA WILL RETURN HER LOVE AND LOYALTY TO YOU, PRESIDENT BUHARI ASSURES 286 FOREIGN NATIONALS GRANTED CITIZENSHIP
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday in Abuja awarded Nigerian citizenship to 286 nationals, urging them to be good citizens of the country to enjoy all the rights and privileges bestowed on them.
”You have pledged your allegiance to Nigeria. When you give your love and loyalty to Nigeria, she returns her love and loyalty to you,” the President told the awardees during an event at the State House.
The President explained that out of the 286 foreign nationals presented with certificates of Nigerian Citizenship, 208 received certificates for Naturalization, while 78 got certificates by Registration.
He urged them to make positive and useful contributions to the advancement, progress and well-being of the different communities they reside, adding that as citizens they must be in accord with the national ethics and code of conduct.
”You are expected to abide by the Ideals and Institution of the Nigerian National Flag, Anthem, Pledge and respect for all Constituted Authorities.
”All those concerned with Immigration matters are to offer our new citizens quick legal identification. Also, their Local Governments should assist with their integration in the local community to enable them enjoy all the entitlements of a Nigerian citizen,” he said.
In exercising the constitutional powers conferred on him, by Chapter III Sections 25-31 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the President told the new citizens that Nigeria is a nation united by the principles of opportunity, equality, and liberty as enshrined in the Constitution.
”No matter where you come from, or what faith you practice, this country is now your country. Our history is now your history, and our traditions are now your traditions. Nigeria is your home and pride and joy.
”In line with our transformational ideals of strict adherence to due process and transparent procedures, the Ministry of Interior ensured that only deserving persons were recommended to the Federal Executive Council to be conferred with Nigerian citizenship.”
President Buhari recounted that the Federal Government in 2020 adopted the National Action Plan to eradicate statelessness and accordingly, the Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, inaugurated the High-level Steering Committee to Eradicate Statelessness in Nigeria by 2024.
”This ceremony therefore is a further demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment and determination to remove as many people as possible from statelessness.
”In this regard, I will like to reiterate our commitment to the strategic role Nigeria plays in the comity of nations, in its unwavering quest for greater human integration, towards ensuring peace and prosperity.”
Welcoming the new Nigerians, the Minister of Interior in his speech entitled ‘‘The more the merrier’’, said the beneficiaries were from the United States, Europe, the Americas, Asia, Middle East, Oceania and Africa, who have seen the good in Nigeria.
”Without any doubt, Nigeria is a great nation, richly endowed and blessed with great people. Smart people continue to flock to our country to do business with us,’’ Aregbesola said, adding that Nigeria would continue to welcome every qualified citizenship applicant.
The Minister described the conferment ceremony as a celebration of the oneness of the human race, consistent with the mandate of the Ministry and the Buhari administration to lay a solid socio-economic and political foundation that will thrust Nigeria into one of the top 20 economies in the world.
”To achieve this lofty vision, the government is determined to encourage and attract foreign investors, high-net worth individuals, highly-skilled individuals and people with rare talents and strategic competencies into our country, ” he said.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr Shuaib Belgore, read citations of select beneficiaries who received certificates and symbols of citizenship from President Buhari.
They are Mrs. Kathryn Teresa Barrera, an American citizen, Professor Albert Alos Rovira, a Spanish citizen, Mr. Giuseppe Bellini, an Italian citizen, Dr. Nasra Ali, a Kenyan, Rev. Prof. John Brown Okwii, a Ugandan and Prof. Oumar Al-Moubarak Adoun, a Chadian citizen.
Speaking on behalf of the new citizens, Barrera, who arrived Nigeria in 1974 at age 24, thanked the President, staff of the Ministry of Interior for making their dreams come true.
The 72-year old Nigerian-American is the proprietress of a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) Mother and Children Welfare Association, caregiver of Orphans and Vulnerable Children including children living with HIV/AIDS.
She currently lives with 20 children and young adults in training and in University, according to the citation read by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 15, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI REWARDS COMMONWEALTH GAMES, WORLD ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS ATHLETES WITH NATIONAL HONOURS, N200 MILLION
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday in Abuja approved National Honours and cash awards of N200 million for Team Nigeria contingents to the 2022 Commonwealth Games and World Athletics championships.
Speaking at a presidential reception in honour of the athletes, the President said his Government is committed to rewarding excellence, no less for members of Team Nigeria who ignited the spirit of victory in the nation through stellar performances at international competitions.
Congratulating all the awardees and recipients, he expressed confidence that this will spur them to greater heights.
The President who described the athletes as champions, worthy ambassadors, national heroes and heroines, heaped praises on them for proudly flying the Nigerian flag in nine sporting events.
”I watched with millions of Nigerians those exciting moments when you all brought smiles to us and our homes by breaking world, national and games records, as well as achieving personal best in your careers.
”Your outstanding performances in recent times are consistent with the determination of a nation always yearning for excellent performance.
”You all, members of Team Nigeria have ignited the spirit for victory in our nation but even more you have been victorious in major sporting championships and games.
”I have followed keenly your achievements at the World Championships in Oregon USA and indeed your remarkable performance at the recently concluded Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, United Kingdom.
”And I am very pleased that you displayed at both the personal and group levels great sporting talents and delivered for your country great podium performances,” he said.
The President told the athletes that their hour of sporting glory beamed the ‘‘radar of the world on Nigeria’’, adding that their exploits have gone a long way in projecting the positive image of the country.
”Twelve times the world stood still as our green, white green national flag was hoisted and the National Anthem recited. Thirty-five times we made it to the podium. You all Team Nigeria made that possible.
”You brought glory and honour to our country. And today, on behalf of the nation- I say, THANK YOU!”
President Buhari called out the names of the gold winners and other medal winners including the world champion in the 100m hurdles, Tobiloba Amusan, Ese Brume, Blessing Oborodudu , Oluwafemiayo Folashade, Taiwo Liadi, Ikechukwu Obichukwu, Bose Omolayo, Favour Ofili, Nasiru Sule, Ifechukwude Ikpeoyi, Ebikewenimo Welson, Hannah Rueben and Elizabeth Oshoba.
Reiterating the commitment of this administration in providing the enabling environment for youths to ascend to the pinnacle of their chosen careers, the President expressed satisfaction with the impact the Adopt-An-Athlete Initiative of the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports had on the performance of athletes.
He urged more private individuals and corporate organizations to support government’s investment in sports, which has been reclassified from being a recreational activity to being a business in line with modern practices worldwide.
President Buhari also acknowledged the many giant strides witnessed in the sports sector under the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare and his team, commending the numerous and sustained successes recorded in the last few years.
The Minister of Youth and Sports Development described 2022 as an outstanding year in the history of Nigerian sports, which shall not be forgotten in a hurry.
According to him, it is a year where many Sporting Federations have surpassed and are surpassing their previous performances, while many athletic records were broken.
Highlighting the most remarkable feats, Dare said in track and field, Amusan in a span of 4 months won Nigeria’s first ever gold medal in World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon, USA with a world record performance in an event highly dominated by the Americans and Europeans.
She also successfully defended her Commonwealth Games title, which she won in 2018 in Gold Coast, with a games record in 2022 in Birmingham; and Diamond League title in Zurich, Switzerland on September 8, 2022, the Minister said, adding that this remarkable performance has never been achieved by any Nigerian in the history of our sports.
Further, the Minister said Brume, another trailblazer in Nigerian sports, won silver medal in the Women’s Long Jump event at the 2022 World Athletics Championships and a gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham with a games record performance.
Dare recalled that the first time Nigeria won a medal in wrestling at the Olympic Games since 1952, was at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics by Oborodudu, who clinched a silver medal to the admiration of the entire globe.
”In confirming that the performance was not a fluke, she won a gold medal in the Women’s 68 kg category at the just concluded 2022 Commonwealth Games, ” he said.
Describing Nigeria as the best Para Powerlifting nation in the world, the Minister hailed Oluwafemiayo for keeping with this tradition by winning gold medal in the Women’s heavyweight category, setting a new world record in that class at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics and the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
”Mr. President, through the sporting exploits and excellence of the young athletes before you in this hall and several others not able to make it for this reception, Nigeria has served notice that it will not relent.
”That it will show up and compete for every laurel available not only in sports but in youth development, economic progress, social emancipation, political development and many more,” he said.
The Minister thanked the President for being a great source of encouragement and support to the teeming youth in sports and other areas, saying ”this administration’s investment in youth and sports development, will continue to yield dividends years after you might have completed your term as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
He also commended some well-meaning Nigerians and sports philanthropists for keying into several initiatives of the Ministry on sports development.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 15, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS FOREMOST JOURNALIST, EDITOR, NAJEEM JIMOH AT 70
President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with Alhaji Najeem Jimoh, Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, as he turns 70 September 14, 2022.
The President salutes a sterling career which has spanned over four decades, beginning from the days of the WNTV and WNBS. Jimoh was later to move to the Daily Times and later the Punch Newspapers, which he edited in the 1980s. He also served briefly as Group Associate Director of Thisday Newspapers and the publisher of The Hammer Newspapers in the 1990s.
President Buhari urges the Vice Chairman, The Point Newspapers and Executive Vice Chairman of Citizen FM 93.7, Abuja, to continue sharing knowledge and skill with the younger generation of journalists, so they can value ethics and professionalism, like the celebrant.
The President equally shares the joy of the day with Jimoh’s family, friends, associates, and the media fraternity.
He wishes the alumnus of the University of Lagos and a one-time Secretary-General of the institution’s Students Union longer life in good health, and greater service to God and mankind.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
September 14, 2022
YOU HAVE WRITTEN YOUR OWN HISTORY, PRESIDENT BUHARI TELLS GOV. HOPE UZODIMMA OF IMO STATE
President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Owerri, Imo State, commended Gov. Hope Uzodimma for his efforts in developing the state, saying, “You have written your own history,’’ after he saw the ultra-modern chamber of the rebuilt House of Assembly.
President said his administration will leave a legacy of major development projects across the country, while saluting Imo State Governor for giving more attention to constructions and institutional reforms that will improve lives of the people.
President Buhari, who commissioned the Owerri/Orlu dual carriage, Owerri/Okigwe road and the renovated House of Assembly Complex, noted that the Imo State government had made remarkable progress with infrastructure in three years.
“I am delighted to be back in Imo State – the Eastern Heartland – to commission a number of projects executed by the administration of His Excellency, Governor Hope Uzodimma.
“I am happy to note that within just three years of the administration of Governor Uzodimma, I have made two official visits to Imo State to commission projects in the state.
“On each occasion, I have received a very warm hospitality of Imo people, for which I am always appreciative. Ndi Imo, Ndewo!
“As it is often said in local Igbo parlance, a good road deserves a second passage. It is a pleasant coincidence that the name of your governor, “Uzodimma” is derived from this same idiom. Little wonder, therefore, that he has made the provision of good roads one of his top priorities,” he said.
The President said his administration recognizes the importance of critical infrastructure in economic development and was determined to drive the economic development of Nigeria through the provision of vital infrastructure across the length and breadth of the country.
“This can be seen in our commitment to certain critical projects such as Deep Sea Ports, new airport terminals and buildings, various railway projects, a network of gas and power infrastructure, roads and bridges including the Second Niger Bridge, telecommunications infrastructure to mention but a few.
“I am therefore happy to see that the APC administration of Governor Uzodimma is doing similar improvement here in Imo State.
“I commend the Governor for being able to do so with the limited resources at the disposal of the State Government. This proves that when leaders are dedicated and focused, much can be achieved for our people, “ he added.
The President said the Federal Government will continue to support the government of Imo State to ensure that it continues to provide the dividends of democracy to the people.
“This support is equally available to all the states of the Federation irrespective of the differences in political party affiliations,’” he assured.
The President encouraged Imo State indigenes to keep supporting the Governor to actualize his dream for the state, particularly on good governance.
“In my last visit here, I encouraged you all to support your Governor so that he can do more for the people of Imo state. I am happy that you took my advice and today, he has presented to me three key projects for commissioning.
“I have just commissioned the dualized Owerri – Orlu road, the Owerri Okigwe road (Phase 1) and the rebuilt House of Assembly Complex.
“I am told that these two major roads, which I commissioned, cut through several local government areas of the state. The roads will therefore serve as major stimulants to the local economy of these parts of the state,” the President stated.
President Buhari noted that previous administrations in the state were unable to fix the roads because of their unique and difficult terrains, which were complicated by erosion.
According to him, “it took the sheer determination and courage of the current government to fix these roads. So, I say “Bravo” to the Governor of Imo State, whose name I was informed means “good road”.
“I was also informed that the House of Assembly Complex which I have just commissioned was dilapidated and abandoned for over 10 years before the intervention of the present administration.
“This is equally commendable, because of the importance of the legislative arm of government in the sustenance of democracy. I, therefore, applaud the governor for according due respect to this arm of government which is at the heart of our democracy, “ he said.
President Buhari extoled the Government of Imo state for “the road revolution”, describing it as “infrastructure revolution”.
In his remarks, the Imo State Governor noted that the Owerri/Orlu dual carriage and Owerri/Okigwe road had significant economic value to the state and other neighboring states.
“Each of the projects has a remarkable history. Behind the dualized road has been a nightmare for decades,’’ he said, adding that erosion made the construction more difficult.
Gov. Uzodimma said: “To the glory of God we have found the courage, dedication and means to fix the road. The seemingly intractable challenges have been addressed.’’
The Imo State Governor noted that the renovation of the House of Assembly had made it more befitting for the lawmakers, after it was abandoned for many years.
The Governor thanked President for his interventions to ensure development in the South East, with historic projects, like second Niger Bridge, which would gulp the highest single investment in the zone of more than N360 billion, approval for upgrading of the Federal Medical Centre to a teaching hospital and establishment of a naval base in Oguta, Imo State.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 13, 2022
WE ARE NOT MOURNING, WE ARE CELEBRATING MY LATE MOTHER-GOV AKEREDOLU
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, on Friday said his late mother, Lady Evangelist Grace Akeredolu (JP), lived a fulfilled life deserving of celebration.
Governor Akeredolu, who said it is not easy to clock 90 years, noted that his mother has left enduring legacies.
The Governor spoke at his late mother’s Kopindogba residence in Ibadan where he received the Aare Musulumi of Yoruba, Edo and Delta States, Alhaji Dahud Akinola and the All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship candidate in Oyo State, Senator Teslim Folarin.
Aare Akinola who led other Muslims delegation on the condolence visit, described Lady Evangelist Grace Akeredolu (JP) as a true mother who would be missed by all.
He prayed God to give the Governor and his siblings the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.
Aare Akinola stressed that Lady Evangelist Akeredolu is a woman of substance who left indelible marks in the sand of history.
According to him, God has been so good to the nonagenarian who lived well and was blessed with successful children.
The APC Governorship candidate in Oyo State, Senator Teslim Folarin led some of his supporters and members of the party to condole Governor Akeredolu.
He congratulated the Governor for surviving his mother, adding that it is the joy of everyone to survive their old ones.
The Governorship hopeful said:”We are here to congratulate our boss for surviving his mother. You are one of Governors that our people have tremendous respect for. You speak your mind and stand up for the Yoruba race.”
Welcoming Aare Akinola and his team, Governor Akeredolu thanked them for identifying with him.
He said the good legacy left behind by his mother will continue to live after her.
Governor Akeredolu described his late mother as a true mother who did not joke with proper upbringing of her children.
While welcome Senator Folarin and his supporters, Governor Akeredolu appreciated them for visiting him and his siblings.
He charged the Governorship candidate and his supporters to work assiduously to ensure the victory of the APC in the state.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 16, 2022.
Women in the Niger Delta on Friday denounced promoters of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) interim management committee, describing them as the greatest friends of illegality and the most pronounced foes of the region.
‘’The interim management committee will breed hostility among the oil states in the country. The inauguration of substantive board is the best possible course under existing circumstances’’
They also urged President Muhammadu Buhari to dramatize the end of one man or a three man rule in the commission.
At a gathering in Port Harcourt, the women appealed to leaders of key nations and world statesmen to implore Buhari to constitute the commission’s board.
‘’It would be a tragedy if Mr President let himself be diverted from consideration of the NDDC Board by the proposal of another interim management committee. Such a tendency shows a singular lack of understanding of the region’s problems and a failure to remember the larger purposes for which the NDDC was established. The composition of a substantive board is primary and fundamental’’
They also appealed to presidential candidates, traditional rulers and religious leaders to impress on President Muhammadu Buhari to constitute a board for the Commission.
The women described interim management committee agitators as predators, destroyers and zombies.
A statement read to newsmen by the President of Niger Delta Women in Politics (NDWIP), Chief Josephine Ekong said without the board, it would be practically impossible to assume a leading role in attempting to bring about a lasting peace and development in the oil rich region’’
‘’At inception, NDDC gave the Niger Delta people new confidence and a tremendous sense of regional solidarity. It taught the people the meaning of development’’.
The women said they would have nothing to do with the interim management committee or another sole administrator.
‘’The delay in constituting the board and the zero implementation of the recommendations of the NDDC Forensic Audit Report are enough to move the people of the region to anger.
They expressed complete satisfaction over the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Mr Umana Okon Umana’s good faith.
The women also praised the NDDC Sole Administrator, Mr Effiong Akwa for displaying leadership.
‘’The obligation of the government is to supply the focal point where problems could be integrated and resolved. The way out lies not in attempting to sack Akwa and putting in place interim management committee but in completely inaugurating the commission’s board’’