PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS MURDERED FIVE-YEAR-OLD HANIFA, COMMENDS DETECTIVE OPERATIONS LEADING TO ARRESTS
PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS MURDERED FIVE-YEAR-OLD HANIFA, COMMENDS DETECTIVE OPERATIONS LEADING TO ARRESTS
President Muhammadu Buhari Friday expressed the nation’s condolences to the family of the five-year-old school girl Hanifa Abubakar whose body was discovered in a shallow grave in Kano after near two months of fruitless search.
The President in the same breath has praised the work of the police and the secret service in unraveling the mystery behind the disappearance of Hanifa, and particularly for the arrest of her teacher and his other accomplices suspected of the child’s kidnap and murder.
President Buhari said the family and the whole nation which followed up on Hanifa’s travail every day since her disappearance in December last year were hoping for the girl to have been rescued alive and well, adding however that the very thorough and painstaking detective operation by the law enforcement bodies, leading to the discovery of the corpse and the arrest of the suspects who have already made confessions was commendable, calling it an achievement that should instill more public confidence in the authorities.
“When breakthroughs like this happen, people will talk differently of law enforcement,” said the President.
President Buhari prayed for the repose of the soul of the little school girl and urged her parents to bear the sad loss with courage and fortitude in God.
The President urged the Police and Ministry of Justice to uphold the integrity of the detective work that busted the case by preparing well and presenting a good case that will earn the respect of the court.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 21, 2022
A UK-AFRICA TRADE DEAL WOULD CREATE JOBS AND BOOST THE COMMONWEALTH – POST-BREXIT, IT IS NOW POSSIBLE By Muhammadu Buhari
A deal would enable Britain to practice the free trade it has long preached and represent recognition by a G7 economy of the benefits of African unity, writes President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria
Two years after the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union, my country Nigeria and her African partners seek a new settlement with Britain: one based on cooperation in fairer – and freer – trade.
The UK and Nigeria share a deep and special partnership. We are champions for peace and security in Africa. We are custodians of the Commonwealth. Yet in recent years our relationship, particularly on trade, has been defined by Britain’s membership of the European Union.
It meant being part of attempts to cajole individual African nations into lopsided European bilateral economic partnership agreements. Nigeria rejected such a deal in 2018, as it sought only to prioritise beneficial terms for raw commodities export to Europe while erecting high tariff barriers to goods manufactured and processed in Africa – stunting job creation. Lack of employment is a key cause of mass migration from Africa to Europe, perversely caused by the very trade policies intended for Europe’s protection.
Now, all this can be changed. Last September, history was made with the UK becoming the first country in the world to sign a memorandum with the African Union’s 54-country Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This should lead to a UK-African union free trade deal. It would be one made with parity, considering Africa’s $3tn combined GDP is equivalent to that of the United Kingdom, the world’s fifth-largest economy.
Given that the Commonwealth’s 19 African members collectively produce over half the African continent’s GDP, a UK-Africa deal would, concurrently, cause a revitalisation of intra-Commonwealth trade and with it the club itself – a stated British foreign policy aim. This could be further enhanced should we take advantage of the fact those 19 nations’ national laws are built on the principles of English jurisprudence: a common platform from which to better align regulations on investment and certification.
A deal would enable Britain to practice the free trade it has long preached. It would represent recognition by a G7 economy of the benefits of African unity; that job creation and manufacturing in Africa can be an advantage and not a threat to the western world. And it would inject momentum into a renewed Commonwealth, after decades during which the organisation’s potential for economic cooperation was in abeyance while its most influential founding member was bound to European trade policies and unable to act alone. A Commonwealth rebuilt around trade would help replenish this underused club of friends.
But before we reach ahead of ourselves, we must remember that though the purpose of trade deals should be mutual prosperity, favorable terms can be rejected because little attention has been made to persuade public opinion. On both sides, there will be those concerned over competition and terms of trade.
To carry our citizens with us we must start by agreeing on the most favorable trading terms for those products each other does not produce. Fresh and processed foodstuffs, for instance, which cannot be grown in the UK should be prioritised with favorable or no tariffs.
For British companies seeking opportunities in Africa, there should be incentives for sectors heavy in job creation. Here there are millions of highly-skilled, English-speaking but underemployed young people. They are eager to work but without the opportunities that foreign investment can bring to create jobs and build businesses.
This great market is Britain’s opportunity. But, of course, some see it as a threat to where jobs can only be lost and from where immigrants come. They view engagement as a partially open door that will only become wider – unless borders become walls, and Britain a fortress.
That is a mistake. Those who rail against “economic migrants” must realise few people anywhere wish to leave their communities to live in foreign lands. Most would rather stay at home. But the way to help them stay there is not by force, or walls, or racism: it is investment and jobs where they live.
And those jobs will be needed to produce the goods and services demanded by Africa’s growing middle class, whose number is predicted to be close to one billion by 2050. They will not be cheaper replacements for employment lost in Britain or elsewhere: rather extra jobs, created by expanding opportunities in a growing African economy.
Those who come from Britain seeking opportunities will be welcomed by an expanding and worldly-wise middle class wishing to experience the best of British culture, products, and expertise – from television and creative industries to iconic cars and education services.
Being the first mover amongst the G7 to seek a trade deal with Africa, the UK is positioning itself to secure the very best of terms and stands able to revive intra-Commonwealth trade, replenish its relations with the fastest growing market in the world, tackle the causes of economic migration – and create jobs and wealth that boost rather than threaten those at home.
Muhammadu Buhari is President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Originally published in The Independent of London
‘‘SEEING IS BELIEVING,’’ PRESIDENT BUHARI THUMBS UP EL-RUFAI AFTER COMMISSIONING PROJECTS IN ZARIA, KADUNA
President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday continued the inauguration of projects executed by the Kaduna State Government, with stops at Zaria, heaping encomiums on Governor Nasir El-Rufai saying, ‘‘I am pleased to be associated with your successes and initiatives.’’
Speaking at the palace of the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, the President noted that within the context of scarce resources and prevailing economic reality, the Kaduna State government has done well for the people.
‘‘As they say in Hausa ‘Gani ya Kori ji’ (seeing is believing),’’ he said.
The President, who is on a four-day official visit to the State, had on Thursday commissioned projects in Kafanchan and Kaduna metropolis in the State.
On Friday in Zaria, the northern senatorial district of Kaduna, the President inaugurated the remodelled Sabon Gari market with 3,400 shops; the Circular road with two spurs on River road and Kufena road; and the Queen Elizabeth way.
At the Sabon-Gari market, President Buhari, while appreciating the governor for rebuilding one of the oldest markets in the State and paying compensation of over N300 million to traders, jocularly said he would consider opening a consultancy service in the market, where a ‘‘Presidential Block’’ is named after him.
In his remarks, Governor El-Rufai recalled that in August 2019, the President was in Zaria to commission Phase 2 of the Zaria water project, providing a basic amenity that was not available for residents of Zaria for over 30 years.
‘‘Our State is an agricultural State and this Emirate is associated with farming. We know Mr President’s passion for agriculture and we are grateful you appointed a son of the State to head the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.
‘‘We look forward to more agricultural interventions in the State,’’ the Governor said, pledging that the people of Kaduna and their elected representatives will continue to stand by the principles and values associated with the President: honesty, integrity and commitment to public service.
The Emir of Zazzau thanked the President for the intervention of the Federal Ministry of Health in providing a functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine at Ahamdu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria, in line with the desire of the people of Zazzau.
‘‘Today our people don’t have to travel to Kano, Sokoto or Abuja for medical screening with MRI machine,’’ he said.
The first class traditional ruler commended Governor Nasir El-Rufai for the Urban Renewal Projects embarked upon by his administration, acknowledging that the Emir of Zazzau’s Palace which has been in existence for centuries, was a major beneficiary of the projects.
‘‘We will be grateful if Mr President will thank and bless our Governor for the gigantic legacy project ongoing in the Place. Equally, Zaria people have benefitted in other areas like road construction and bridges which have expanded road networks as well as decongested traffic significantly,’’ he said.
On security, the Emir, while acknowledging the efforts of the government, solicited for more intervention by the Federal Government in the area, noting that Zaria emirate is a gateway to all the States in the North West as well neighbouring Niger Republic.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 21, 2022
Kangiwa promises training support for tourism development in Epe LGA
The Director General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, NIHOTOUR, Alhaji Nura Kangiwa, has stated the commitment of the Institute in the promotion of Grass-Root Tourism Development in the country, noting that it is where the tourism potentials of the country are domiciled.
A press release signed by NIHOTOUR’s Director of Media & Public Relations, indicated that Kangiwa made the remark when he received the Chairperson of Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun at the headquarters of the Institute in Abuja.
The NIHOTOUR helmsman said as part of its human capacity training and development, NIHOTOUR is willing to partner with the Local government in the training of youths of the Council Area in artistry skills in travel-tourism and hospitality related trades.
The Director General noted that efforts of the Institute in providing training for youths and women across the length and breadth of the country is informed by its desire to contribute as much as it can in the fight against unemployment and youth restiveness through skill acquisition trainings that create job opportunities for the youths.
He commended the efforts of the Epe Council area in the promotion of eco-tourism in Lagos State, promising that NIHOTOUR is prepared to collaborate and offer support in the area of manpower training needed to drive the tourism activities of the LGA.
Speaking earlier, Princess Surah Animashaun said she was on the courtesy visit to NIHOTOUR to explore areas of collaboration with the Institute in her efforts to promote the tourism potentials of the local government and tap from the economic benefits of the industry.
She therefore solicited for the support of the Institute in empowering youths and women of the council area in the various travel-tourism and hospitality trades, stating that this will go a long way in providing job opportunities as well as help check the menace caused by unemployment among the youths.
Press Statement
RIVPA Congratulates New Rivers NUJ Exco
We wish to congratulate and felicitate with the newly elected state executive council, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State led by Comrade Stanley Job Stanley.
On behalf of all the private media operating in the State and their editorial staff, we share in the infectious joy and wide celebrations that greeted the emergence of the New Exco after four failed previous attempts to get the election process underway.
Our immense gratitude also goes to the Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, and former State Chairman of the Council, Pastor Paulinus Nsirim whose timely intervention to broker peace between the warrying factions helped the process to succeed.
Also not left out are the most respected elders of the council, Rt. Hon. Ogbonna Nwuke, former Commissioner for Information and Communications, Elder Ignatius Chukwu and the national Vice President, Zone F of NUJ, our very own Opaka Dakubo for the prominent role they played in bringing peace and reconciliation among the gladiators.
It must however be pointed out that in the election there were no real winners or losers. The only winner is the NUJ Rivers State Council.
We therefore wish to advise that all the differences and seeming bad blood generated during the initial stage of the election process be put behind and a new relationship rooted in brotherhood, one profession, one union be the commanding and propelling force for the welfare and happiness of the greater majority of all our members in the Pen Fraternity.
And to all practicing journalists in the private media, this is the time to get up and be alive to your pride of place and superior status as the Gramour-bearers of all journalists not only in Rivers State or Nigeria but anywhere in the world.
Never again will you be taken for granted by those that ride and survive on your very own goodwill and professional skills as the purveyors of hard facts and watchdog of the society.
It’s painful to have the hen that lays the golden egg derided, insulted and disenfranchised not realizing that what makes the battlefield is the soldiers and not the bush.
Let it also be pointed out that no one is to blame for this misnomer for “no one will say there you are, except you say here I am”.
We however, thank God that the incidents that threatened the success of the election have left some good lessons for all journalists in the State as well as all prospective aspirants to NUJ leadership in future.
At least, we have learnt that never again will anybody or group no matter how few or small be taken for granted.
Everybody matters in the pursuit of our collective welfare: The Exco, the opponents, the larger chapels, the smaller chapels, the print, the electronic, the active, the armchair, etc.
Once again, congratulations and to God be the glory.
Pastor Jerry Needam, JP
Chairman RIVPA
Rivers State.
Friday, January 21, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI SAYS DEMOCRATIC PRINCIPLES MUST GUIDE DEMOCRATIC CHOICES
President Muhammadu Buhari, Thursday in Kafanchan, Kaduna State underlined his resolve to consolidate the country’s political system to improve the quality of the people’s lives because “the people matter.”
In an address at the palace of Alhaji Muhammadu Isa 11, the Emir of Jama’a, President Buhari said “we are doing our efforts to consolidate the system for the good of the people because they matter.”
To this end, he spoke about the use of the police and the military, in dealing with security situations but urged Nigerians to develop confidence in civil authority to build a system “free of chaos.”
“Nobody,” he warned emphatically, “should be allowed to raise an army of thugs to force himself on the people. This,” he added, “must be very clear.”
The President gave assurances of the determination of his administration “to hand over a better Nigeria than the one we inherited,” and urged Nigerians to be fair in their assessment of what his government has achieved especially on the campaign promises he made ahead of the 2015 elections.
The President commended Governor Nasir El-Rufa’i of Kaduna State for his accomplishments in the provision of infrastructure, saying:
“I’m very impressed by the rehabilitation of the town (Kafanchan) I have seen,” he said, after commissioning the newly constructed Dan Haya road, Katsina road and the Emir’s Palace road in Kafanchan.
President Buhari, who urged residents of the area to show appreciation for the projects, also commended Alhaji Muhammed Isa, the Emir, for his consolidation of peace among the diverse ethnic and religious communities of the Emirate.
In his remarks, Governor El-Rufa’i acknowledged the President’s investments in security in the area, noting in particular that the establishment of security outfits had paved the way for reduced attacks on people, stating categorically that Kafanchan is much safer today than it used to be.
In acknowledging the improvements in security in the area, the Emir requested permanent bases for the Air Force and the Mobile Police, as well as the restoration of the rail services for which Kafanchan had achieved renown.
The President was welcomed to the community by the Senator and Members of the House of Representatives from the zone, and a large number of enthusiastic citizens who thronged the streets.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 20, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI INAUGURATES KAWO FLYOVER, OTHER PROJECTS IN KADUNA, RECOUNTS NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCE IN 2014
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday inaugurated the 800-metre long flyover in Kawo, Kaduna State, recounting how he narrowly escaped a targeted bomb attack in the vicinity in 2014.
Reminiscing on the unfortunate incident, which claimed the lives of many innocent Nigerians, the President said he remains grateful to God for sparing his life on that fateful day on Ali Akilu road, Kawo-Kaduna.
”For many years, I always plied this route and I cannot recount how many times I crossed it.
”There was an attempt on my life on this road. Nothing happened to me just like the 30 months I spent during the civil war.
”They wanted to blow up the vehicle I was in around the secretariat but my escort somehow stopped them. But before we came to this bridge (Kawo), they became more desperate and there was a small market in the area where the device exploded.
”But God protected us and here I am again,’’ he said.
The President, who also inaugurated the newly remodelled Murtala Mohammed Square, 136-bed Infectious Disease Hospital, LEA Lokoja Road Primary School, Rigasa, Aliyu Makama road and the Leventis underpass, executed by the State government, praised Governor Nasir El-Rufai for completing people-oriented projects in Kaduna metropolis as well as in other senatorial zones in the State .
At the Murtala Square, the new city centre of Kaduna State, President Buhari while admiring the remodelled edifice, recalled that he was constrained by family challenges to relocate from Daura to Kaduna after he was released from detention as a former military Head of State.
”I can hardly find my way in Kaduna due to the development taking place here and the governor has committed himself to change Kaduna for good and has been very successful at that, and Nigerians are appreciative that you are writing your history in letters of gold, ” he said.
In the metropolis, the President also commissioned the Barbedos fertilizer plant, a private sector investment in the State.
Speaking at the LEA Lokoja Primary School, the Governor said the project has now been renamed ‘‘Buhari mega-primary school.”
He noted that the people of Rigasa have been consistent in giving President Buhari 98 percent of their votes in previous presidential elections.
”They are the most committed Buharists in the country,” he said.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 20, 2022
Akpabio is the best man for the job – North/South Coalition
Youths in the country on Monday pronounced the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio as ‘’ the right man for the presidential job in 2023’’.
They also praised President Muhammadu Buhari for giving Akpabio the opportunity to tackle the Niger Delta problem.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is a man of courage and faith. He is doing his job with zest and energy’’
At the launching of a grassroots movement for Nigerians aimed at making Akpabio the country’s next president, the youths commended Akpabio for tackling thorny issues, putting an end to wild extravagance in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), stimulating Buhari’s imagination to new visions of things to be done in the region and handling the Niger Delta problems with general skill and efficiency.
The youths spoke with deep sincerity on the minister’s approach, skill at persuasion and ethos.
Alhaji Ibrahim Musa, spokesman of the South-North 2023 Presidential Coalition in a statement in Sokoto described Akpabio’s performance as wonderful.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio achieved transformational change in Akwa Ibom State. He is giving hope and inspiration to the Niger Delta people’’
The youths applauded Akpabio for promoting the welfare of the Niger Delta people, building bridges and attracting investment.
The statement emphasized Akpabio’s initiatives for inclusion, exceptional creativity, liveliness, vision and appetite for long hours of hard work.
The youths praised Buhari for his positive contribution to Nigeria’s recovery, restoration of the country’s pride, repairing of Nigeria’s reputation on the world stage and transferring the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs
Specifically, the youths urged Akpabio to think of playing a more expansive role by running for President in 2023.
The statement also emphasized Akpabio’s unceasing effort to develop the Niger Delta region, intellectual ability, dedication to public service and rapid departure from past strategies.
Trouble brews in Delta State over Okpe Union BOT regularisation by CAC
Top leaders of the Okpe nation on Sunday described a group led by a Delta State University lecturer, Prof Emurobome Idolor as ‘’impostor’’
‘’This imposter group is said to be claiming leadership of the organisation on the basis of a publication signed by HRM, Orhue l, Orodje of Okpe, purporting to dissolve the elected National Executive Council of the Okpe Union and imposing the said Interim Executive comprising persons unknown to the various branches of the Okpe Union’’.
They also urged the Registrar General of the Corporate Affairs Commission to reject applications from the Prof. Emurobome Idolor Imposter group or any other not authorised by the elected National Executive Council of the Okpe Union.
‘’The Commission should investigate this matter dispassionately and take notice of the fact that the address of the elected National Executive Council is also the registered office of the Okpe Union with the Commission. The fact that the election of the current National Executive Council like the others before it took place at the Hall of the registered office of the Union on the 15th of May, 2021 is also strong evidence of who the genuine representatives of the Okpe Union are’’
In a statement titled Prof. Natufe led NEC of the Okpe Union is the only authorised body to relate with the CAC and any other organisation in respect of the Okpe Union, the notable leaders said the self-styled Interim National Executive Council members led by Prof. Emurobome Idolor not only sent a list of persons to the Corporate Affairs Commission but applied to the Commission to register them as Trustees of the Okpe Union.
The statement signed by Okpe Union President General, Prof. Igho Natufe and General Secretary, Barrister Akpederin Kingsley alleged dealing by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) with some persons led by one Prof. Emurobome Idolor who are unknown to and never authorised by the Okpe Union in respect of the regularisation process of the Board of Trustees of the Okpe Union.
‘’The Okpe Union was founded in 1930 and registered with the Nigerian Colonial Government on the 13th of December, 1934 under the Lands(Perpetual Succession) Ordinance of 1924 with its constitution as a dues paying members only organisation. Its Registered Office from the current records of the Corporate Affairs Commission is No. 67, (now No. 65), Moshalashi Street, Ikoyi, Lagos’’
The leaders threw light on the union’s election process.
‘’The Okpe Union has had an unbroken chain of democratic transition of leadership from its inception and registration in 1930 and 1934 respectively. Delegates from the branches of the organisation assemble in a National Conference/General Meeting at the expiration of the tenure of an outgoing National Executive Council of the Okpe Union and elect a successor National Executive Council’’.
The leaders disputed the position of Orhue I, the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom.
‘’That the action of the Traditional Ruler, Orhue I, the Orodje of Okpe (who is neither a member of the Okpe Union nor given any administrative powers by the Constitution of the Okpe Union), on the 3rd of October, 2020, which purported to dissolve the elected National Executive Council and impose strangers on the Okpe Union as its Interim National Executive Council is not only unprecedented, but also contrary to the provisions of the Union Constitution, inconsistent with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria especially the sections which guarantee freedom of association, and it is also a gross violation of various corporate governance laws of Nigeria’’.
The leaders explained that the previous registered trustees of the Okpe Union had all passed on.
‘’The elected National Executive Council had begun the process of regularising the status of the Union with the Corporate Affairs Commission by requesting the Commission to furnish the Union with its indebtedness for failure to file returns and penalties for some years as well as applying to the Federal High Court, Lagos for an order to appoint trustees to replace the former ones who have all died which ruling is due in a few weeks’’.
They further said ‘’On the 4th of June, 2021, the elected National Executive Council of the Okpe Union led by Prof Igho Natufe wrote to the Registrar General of the Commission (which was received by the Commission on the 7th of June, 2021) to complain about the moves of the said imposter group to which the Commission has not responded. We were therefore shocked to discover that the group has submitted a list of proposed trustees for the Okpe Union which the Union knows nothing about and which is a clear breach of the Union’s constitution and the country’s extant laws and rules of the Commission’’.
The leaders tied their point to the corporate governance laws of the Federation of Nigeria as well as the various regulations of the Corporate Affairs Commission relating to the administration of the non-governmental organisations, especially registered trustees.
‘’No non-members or persons unauthorised by the organisation ought to be recognized as representatives of that organization’’
- Akpabio is the best man for the job – North/South Coalition
Youths in the country on Monday pronounced the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio as ‘’ the right man for the presidential job in 2023’’.
They also praised President Muhammadu Buhari for giving Akpabio the opportunity to tackle the Niger Delta problem.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is a man of courage and faith. He is doing his job with zest and energy’’
At the launching of a grassroots movement for Nigerians aimed at making Akpabio the country’s next president, the youths commended Akpabio for tackling thorny issues, putting an end to wild extravagance in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), stimulating Buhari’s imagination to new visions of things to be done in the region and handling the Niger Delta problems with general skill and efficiency.
The youths spoke with deep sincerity on the minister’s approach, skill at persuasion and ethos.
Alhaji Ibrahim Musa, spokesman of the South-North 2023 Presidential Coalition in a statement in Sokoto described Akpabio’s performance as wonderful.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio achieved transformational change in Akwa Ibom State. He is giving hope and inspiration to the Niger Delta people’’
The youths applauded Akpabio for promoting the welfare of the Niger Delta people, building bridges and attracting investment.
The statement emphasized Akpabio’s initiatives for inclusion, exceptional creativity, liveliness, vision and appetite for long hours of hard work.
The youths praised Buhari for his positive contribution to Nigeria’s recovery, restoration of the country’s pride, repairing of Nigeria’s reputation on the world stage and transferring the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs
Specifically, the youths urged Akpabio to think of playing a more expansive role by running for President in 2023.
The statement also emphasized Akpabio’s unceasing effort to develop the Niger Delta region, intellectual ability, dedication to public service and rapid departure from past strategies.
Trouble brews in Delta State over Okpe Union BOT regularisation by CAC
Trouble brews in Delta State over Okpe Union BOT regularisation by CAC
Top leaders of the Okpe nation on Sunday described a group led by a Delta State University lecturer, Prof Emurobome Idolor as ‘’impostor’’
‘’This imposter group is said to be claiming leadership of the organisation on the basis of a publication signed by HRM, Orhue l, Orodje of Okpe, purporting to dissolve the elected National Executive Council of the Okpe Union and imposing the said Interim Executive comprising persons unknown to the various branches of the Okpe Union’’.
They also urged the Registrar General of the Corporate Affairs Commission to reject applications from the Prof. Emurobome Idolor Imposter group or any other not authorised by the elected National Executive Council of the Okpe Union.
‘’The Commission should investigate this matter dispassionately and take notice of the fact that the address of the elected National Executive Council is also the registered office of the Okpe Union with the Commission. The fact that the election of the current National Executive Council like the others before it took place at the Hall of the registered office of the Union on the 15th of May, 2021 is also strong evidence of who the genuine representatives of the Okpe Union are’’
In a statement titled Prof. Natufe led NEC of the Okpe Union is the only authorised body to relate with the CAC and any other organisation in respect of the Okpe Union, the notable leaders said the self-styled Interim National Executive Council members led by Prof. Emurobome Idolor not only sent a list of persons to the Corporate Affairs Commission but applied to the Commission to register them as Trustees of the Okpe Union.
The statement signed by Okpe Union President General, Prof. Igho Natufe and General Secretary, Barrister Akpederin Kingsley alleged dealing by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) with some persons led by one Prof. Emurobome Idolor who are unknown to and never authorised by the Okpe Union in respect of the regularisation process of the Board of Trustees of the Okpe Union.
‘’The Okpe Union was founded in 1930 and registered with the Nigerian Colonial Government on the 13th of December, 1934 under the Lands(Perpetual Succession) Ordinance of 1924 with its constitution as a dues paying members only organisation. Its Registered Office from the current records of the Corporate Affairs Commission is No. 67, (now No. 65), Moshalashi Street, Ikoyi, Lagos’’
The leaders threw light on the union’s election process.
‘’The Okpe Union has had an unbroken chain of democratic transition of leadership from its inception and registration in 1930 and 1934 respectively. Delegates from the branches of the organisation assemble in a National Conference/General Meeting at the expiration of the tenure of an outgoing National Executive Council of the Okpe Union and elect a successor National Executive Council’’.
The leaders disputed the position of Orhue I, the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom.
‘’That the action of the Traditional Ruler, Orhue I, the Orodje of Okpe (who is neither a member of the Okpe Union nor given any administrative powers by the Constitution of the Okpe Union), on the 3rd of October, 2020, which purported to dissolve the elected National Executive Council and impose strangers on the Okpe Union as its Interim National Executive Council is not only unprecedented, but also contrary to the provisions of the Union Constitution, inconsistent with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria especially the sections which guarantee freedom of association, and it is also a gross violation of various corporate governance laws of Nigeria’’.
The leaders explained that the previous registered trustees of the Okpe Union had all passed on.
‘’The elected National Executive Council had begun the process of regularising the status of the Union with the Corporate Affairs Commission by requesting the Commission to furnish the Union with its indebtedness for failure to file returns and penalties for some years as well as applying to the Federal High Court, Lagos for an order to appoint trustees to replace the former ones who have all died which ruling is due in a few weeks’’.
They further said ‘’On the 4th of June, 2021, the elected National Executive Council of the Okpe Union led by Prof Igho Natufe wrote to the Registrar General of the Commission (which was received by the Commission on the 7th of June, 2021) to complain about the moves of the said imposter group to which the Commission has not responded. We were therefore shocked to discover that the group has submitted a list of proposed trustees for the Okpe Union which the Union knows nothing about and which is a clear breach of the Union’s constitution and the country’s extant laws and rules of the Commission’’.
The leaders tied their point to the corporate governance laws of the Federation of Nigeria as well as the various regulations of the Corporate Affairs Commission relating to the administration of the non-governmental organisations, especially registered trustees.
‘’No non-members or persons unauthorised by the organisation ought to be recognized as representatives of that organization’’
- Akpabio is the best man for the job – North/South Coalition
Youths in the country on Monday pronounced the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio as ‘’ the right man for the presidential job in 2023’’.
They also praised President Muhammadu Buhari for giving Akpabio the opportunity to tackle the Niger Delta problem.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is a man of courage and faith. He is doing his job with zest and energy’’
At the launching of a grassroots movement for Nigerians aimed at making Akpabio the country’s next president, the youths commended Akpabio for tackling thorny issues, putting an end to wild extravagance in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), stimulating Buhari’s imagination to new visions of things to be done in the region and handling the Niger Delta problems with general skill and efficiency.
The youths spoke with deep sincerity on the minister’s approach, skill at persuasion and ethos.
Alhaji Ibrahim Musa, spokesman of the South-North 2023 Presidential Coalition in a statement in Sokoto described Akpabio’s performance as wonderful.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio achieved transformational change in Akwa Ibom State. He is giving hope and inspiration to the Niger Delta people’’
The youths applauded Akpabio for promoting the welfare of the Niger Delta people, building bridges and attracting investment.
The statement emphasized Akpabio’s initiatives for inclusion, exceptional creativity, liveliness, vision and appetite for long hours of hard work.
The youths praised Buhari for his positive contribution to Nigeria’s recovery, restoration of the country’s pride, repairing of Nigeria’s reputation on the world stage and transferring the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs
Specifically, the youths urged Akpabio to think of playing a more expansive role by running for President in 2023.
The statement also emphasized Akpabio’s unceasing effort to develop the Niger Delta region, intellectual ability, dedication to public service and rapid departure from past strategies.
Akpabio is the best man for the job – North/South Coalition
Youths in the country on Monday pronounced the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio as ‘’ the right man for the presidential job in 2023’’.
They also praised President Muhammadu Buhari for giving Akpabio the opportunity to tackle the Niger Delta problem.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is a man of courage and faith. He is doing his job with zest and energy’’
At the launching of a grassroots movement for Nigerians aimed at making Akpabio the country’s next president, the youths commended Akpabio for tackling thorny issues, putting an end to wild extravagance in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), stimulating Buhari’s imagination to new visions of things to be done in the region and handling the Niger Delta problems with general skill and efficiency.
The youths spoke with deep sincerity on the minister’s approach, skill at persuasion and ethos.
Alhaji Ibrahim Musa, spokesman of the South-North 2023 Presidential Coalition in a statement in Sokoto described Akpabio’s performance as wonderful.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio achieved transformational change in Akwa Ibom State. He is giving hope and inspiration to the Niger Delta people’’
The youths applauded Akpabio for promoting the welfare of the Niger Delta people, building bridges and attracting investment.
The statement emphasized Akpabio’s initiatives for inclusion, exceptional creativity, liveliness, vision and appetite for long hours of hard work.
The youths praised Buhari for his positive contribution to Nigeria’s recovery, restoration of the country’s pride, repairing of Nigeria’s reputation on the world stage and transferring the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs
Specifically, the youths urged Akpabio to think of playing a more expansive role by running for President in 2023.
The statement also emphasized Akpabio’s unceasing effort to develop the Niger Delta region, intellectual ability, dedication to public service and rapid departure from past strategies.
PRESIDENT BUHARI TO COMMISSION LANDMARK PROJECTS IN OGUN STATE
President Muhammadu Buhari will undertake a one-day official visit to Ogun State on Thursday, January 13, 2022, to commission landmark projects undertaken by the State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun.
The President will commission the 42km Sagamu Interchange – Abeokuta dual carriageway, the new Kobape Housing Estate, located on the Sagamu Abeokuta Interchange, and the first phase of Kings Court Estate, Abeokuta, developed by the Ogun State Property and Investment Corporation (OPIC) .
President Buhari, who will use the opportunity of his State visit to interact with some stakeholders, will return to Abuja the same day.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 10, 2022
ARMED FORCES REMEMBRANCE DAY: LAGOS’LL CONTINUE TO REMEMBER FALLEN HEROES, HEROINES, SAYS SANWO-OLU
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Sunday said the State Government will continue to play its role and do what is expected in remembrance of the fallen heroes and heroines who paid the supreme price for Nigeria.
Governor Sanwo-Olu made the statement at the Year 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration interdenominational divine service held at the Chapel of Christ the Light, Alausa, Ikeja.
The Governor commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for keeping the peace in different parts of the country, promising to continue with the tradition of remembering the fallen heroes and to always pray for the living among them.
Speaking at the interdenominational service organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs, themed “I will heal their land (2Chronicles 7:14),” Governor Sanwo-Olu said his government will keep the tradition of ensuring that the relationship between his administration, the residents and Armed Forces continue to grow, praying that God would heal the land.
The Governor also urged the citizens to support the security forces as they work tirelessly to keep the nation safe.
“As we keep the tradition of having this service to remember our fallen heroes and heroines that have paid the supreme price for this great nation, the government and people of Lagos State will continue that tradition and will continue to ensure that the relationship that exists between the political class, the civilians and the military, continue to grow on daily basis.
“Today is for the remembrance of our fallen heroes and on behalf of the people and government, I want to thank all their families that are here and assure them that government will continue to do what is expected of us to continue to remember them and to say that their efforts and commitments to the country are not in vain.
“We pray that our country will know peace; will know greatness. As we journey in 2022, the peace of the Lord which surpasses all understanding will rest with our country and our State. It will be well with Lagos State. It will be well with Nigeria. It will be well with each and every one of us,” Governor Sanwo-Olu prayed.
In his sermon, the Executive Secretary, Lagos Anglican Schools Management Board, The Venerable Victor Olusa, said the theme of the service was very relevant and appropriate to Nigeria’s situation, adding that people should endeavour to do the right thing and not to castigate their leaders.
He said people need a reorientation of values as God is ready to heal Nigeria and Lagos State, praying that Nigeria will rise again if all the citizens humble themselves, seek God’s face and turn from their evil ways.
The cleric also urged the Armed Forces not to give up or be discouraged as they continue the war against insurgency, banditry and other forms of insecurity in different parts of the country.
Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Prince Anofi Elegushi commended the Armed Forces for upholding the existing unity in Nigeria and for their service to the nation.
The Year 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration interdenominational divine service featured Bible readings, sermon, hymns, choir rendition, praise and worship, a minute silence for departed heroes and heroines, and prayer for Lagos State and Nigeria.
The service was attended by the State Executive Council members, serving and retired military officers, members of the Nigerian Legion and religious leaders, among others.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
09 JANUARY 2022
January 8, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Shifts Screening of Osun Governorship Aspirants to Wednesday, January 12
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has shifted the screening of aspirants for the Osun State Governorship election primary from the earlier scheduled date of Tuesday, January 11, 2022 to a new date of Wednesday, January 12, 2022.
Nevertheless, the venue for the screening exercise remains PDP National Secretariat, Abuja at 10am prompt.
The PDP regrets any inconveniences the change in date may have caused.
All aspirants, leaders, critical stakeholders and members of our party in Osun state should take note and by this, guided accordingly.
Signed:
Hon. Umar M. Bature
National Organizing Secretary
January 8, 2022
Press Statement
2023: We Have Not Zoned Our Presidential Ticket -PDP
The attention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been drawn to comments and speculations from certain individuals claiming that our Party has zoned its Presidential ticket to a particular part of the country.
This is completely misleading as it does not in any way represent the position of our Party.
For the avoidance of doubt, the PDP emphatically and unequivocally states that it has not zoned it Presidential ticket to any part of the country.
The PDP is a political party founded on democratic principles and every action of the Party, including zoning, is based on extensive consultations, discussions and consideration of all the issues as well as the various tendencies and interests across the nation, with the main objective of ensuring that the unity, peaceful co-existence and development of our nation are reinforced and promoted.
The PDP therefore urges Nigerians, our teeming members and supporters to completely disregard the unfounded zoning claims as being peddled. Our Party also cautions those behind the claims to desist forthwith.
The PDP thanks Nigerians across board for the overwhelming interest they have in our Party as their sure platform to Rescue and Rebuild our nation from misrule and urges them to remain united and focused as we join forces for the task ahead.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
SERAP sues Lawan, Gbajabiamila ‘over failure to probe missing N4.1bn NASS funds’
SERAP sues Lawan, Gbajabiamila ‘over failure to probe missing N4.1bn NASS funds’
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against the Senate President, Dr Ahmad Lawan and Speaker of House of Representatives, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila over “their failure to probe, and to refer to appropriate anti-corruption agencies fresh allegations that N4.1bn of public money budgeted for the National Assembly is missing, misappropriated or stolen.”
The suit followed the publication of the annual audited report for 2016 in which the Auditor-General of the Federation raised “concerns about alleged diversion and misappropriation of public funds and sought the recovery of any missing funds.”
In the suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1609/2021 filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, SERAP is seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel Dr Lawan and Mr Gbajabiamila to perform their constitutional oversight functions to promptly probe the allegations that fresh N4.1bn budgeted for the National Assembly may be missing.”
In the suit, SERAP is arguing that “the National Assembly has legal and constitutional duties to prevent and combat corruption, as well as promote transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.”
According to SERAP: “The National Assembly can only effectively perform its anti-corruption role if it can demonstrate exemplary leadership to probe the allegations of corruption and mismanagement involving the legislative body.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “transparency and accountability in the management of public resources and wealth is essential for promoting development, people’s welfare and well-being, and their access to basic public services, as well as good governance and the rule of law.”
SERAP is arguing that, “The failure of the National Assembly to promptly and thoroughly investigate, and to refer to appropriate anti-corruption agencies the allegations documented in the annual audited report for 2016 is a fundamental breach of the oversight and public interest duties imposed on the legislative body.”
According to SERAP, “The National Assembly has no legally justifiable reason to refuse to investigate the allegations documented by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation.”
The suit filed on behalf of SERAP by its lawyers Kolawole Oluwadare and Kehinde Oyewumi, read in part: “Granting this application would serve the interest of justice, reduce corruption and mismanagement, as well as end impunity of perpetrators, and advance the fundamental human rights of Nigerians.”
“This suit seeks to vindicate the rule of law, the public interest, and to promote transparency and accountability. Government agencies and institutions are responsible to a court of justice for the lawfulness of what they do, and of that the court is the only judge.”
SERAP had last year sent a letter to Dr Lawan and Mr Gbajabiamila requesting them to “use their good offices to urgently probe and refer to appropriate anti-corruption agencies allegations that fresh allegations of missing N4.1bn of public money.”
The letter, read in part: “these fresh allegations are not part of the disclosure by the Auditor-General in the audited reports for 2015, 2017 and 2018 that N4.4 billion of National Assembly money is missing, misappropriated or stolen.”
“According to the Auditor-General report for 2016, N4,144,706,602.68 of National Assembly money is missing, diverted or stolen. The National Assembly paid some contractors N417,312,538.79 without any documents. The Auditor-General wants the Clerk to the National Assembly to ‘recover the amount in question from the contractors.’”
“The National Assembly reportedly spent N625,000,000.00 through its Constitution Review Committee between March and June 2016 but without any document. The Auditor-General wants the Clerk to the National Assembly to ‘recover the amount from the Committee.’”
“The National Assembly also reportedly spent N66,713,355.08 as ‘personnel cost’ but ‘the payees in the Cashbook did not correspond with those in the Bank Statement’. The Auditor-General wants ‘the irregular expenditure recovered from the officer who approved the payments.’”
“The National Assembly also reportedly paid N116,162,522.60 to some contractors between April and June, 2016 without any document. The National Assembly deducted N56,985,568.55 from various contract payments in respect of Withholding Tax and Value Added Tax but without any evidence of remittance.”
“The National Assembly also reportedly paid N126,264,320.00 as cash advances to 11 staff members between March and December, 2016 to procure goods and services but failed to remit the money.”
“The Senate reportedly paid N747,286,680.00 as personal advances to staff members between February and December, 2016 for various procurements and services but failed to retire the money. The Senate also deducted N118,625,057.48 as Withholding and Value Added Taxes but failed to show any evidence of remittance to the Federal Inland Revenue Service.”
“The Senate also spent N109,007,179.73 from the Capital Expenditure vote but without any document.”
“The House of Representatives reportedly deducted N821,564,296.48 from staff salaries but failed to remit the money to tax authorities. The House also paid N254,059,513.70 as advances to staff members to procure goods and services between January and December, 2016 but failed to retire the money.”
“The National Institute for Legislative Studies reportedly spent N375,867,000.00 to buy 11 motor vehicles in April 2016. But the Institute also paid the same contractor N36,610,000.00 in September 2016 under the same contract without approval.”
“The Institute also reportedly paid N10,927,768.80 to 7 members of staff who were redeployed from the National Assembly to provide specialized services but without details about the staff paid, and without any justification.”
“The National Assembly Service Commission reportedly approved N109,995,400.00 to train some officers in Dubai, United Arab Emirates but spent N127,629,600.00 as Estacode Allowances to participants, and fees for two consultants engaged for the training. The Commission also spent N9,975,000.00 as course fees for 34 officers but it also paid a consultant N4,987,500.00 for the same course fees.”
“The Legislative Aides Section earned N12,274,587.77 as interests on Bank accounts in a commercial bank between January and December 2016 but failed to remit the money to the Consolidated Revenue Fund.”
No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
9/1/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
Jimoh Ibrahim Dissociates Self From Fake Cryptocurrency Link
Billionaire Business mogul and owner of Fortune University has debunked a fake Facebook account opened by some unscrupulous persons in his name to defraud Nigerians.
In a statement personally signed by Barr. Ibrahim, while dissociating himself from the Facebook page, he said he is equally surprised like many of his associates , followers and fans that such Facebook page exists.
The page advertised a phony link which projected an investment profile with a fake note credited to Jimoh Ibrahim written thus: ” I am sharing this because I ‘ve also received hundreds of emails from people thanking me for sharing this secret. ” The scam link is ‘https://fingering. xyz/Jimoh Ibrahim_23.122021′
Barrister Jimoh Ibrahim whose chains of business cut across oil and gas, hospitality , Insurance and many more, said emphatically that the face book page doesn’t belong to him, stressing that some smart Alecs went to hoist the page on the social media with the hope of using his name and face to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.
The Araba of Ikale land advised the scammers to desist from using his name in their shady social media deals warning that the long arms of the law will catch up with them in no time.
He appealed to the public not be brow beaten by whatever mouth watering investment package on the fake Facebook page as it doesn’t have anything to do with him as a person on his chains of businesses both in Nigeria and overseas.
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH URHOBO KINGDOM OVER PASSING OF CHIEF PATRICK EMURODE SITO IDEH
President Muhammadu Buhari commiserates with family of Hon. (Chief) Patrick Emurode Sito Ideh, the Okpako-Orere of Otughievwen and Ushota of Ughievwen Kingdom, and all sons and daughters of Urhobo Kingdom, over passing of the royal father.
President Buhari sends condolences to Government and people of Delta State, professional and business associates of the departed, urging more trust in God, and appreciation for the long life of the elder statesman and former lawmaker, who served as member of the House of Representatives, 1979-1983.
As father to Urhobo ethnic nationality, the President affirms that the legal icon and businessman worked selflessly for the unity and progress of his domain, leaving landmark testimonies of speaking for the voiceless, supporting the underprivileged and, most significantly, ensuring presence of sons and daughters in national discourse.
President Buhari prays for a peaceful rest for the departed, and God’s comfort for his family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 8, 2022
BLACK SOOT: WIKE TASKS RIVERS CP, OTHERS TO ARREST, PROSECUTE ARTISANAL REFINERS.
Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has charged the Rivers State Commissioner of Police to collaborate with the other Security Agencies, Council Chairmen and Traditional Rulers to fish out all those involved in illegal bunkering and artisanal refining for prosecution.
The governor accused persons engaged in illegal bunkering and artisanal refining for the black soot environmental menace that is endangering the health of residents of the State.
He gave the charge at the Nigeria Police, Rivers State Command dinner and award night that held at the Police Officers Mess, Old Government Residential Area, Port Harcourt on Friday.
The governor, who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Port Harcourt, Chief Emeka Woke, declared that the State government has resolved to tackle those involved in crude oil theft and refining once and for all.
Governor Wike stated that the state government is willing to provide the police and other security agencies all that is required to dislodge and end the activities of artisanal refiners in Rivers State.
According to the governor, “the State is prepared to fight them more than ever before.”
Governor Wike, narrated that since the Commissioner of Police, Friday Eboka assumed duty last year, Rivers State has witnessed peace and improved policing.
“Little wonder the crime index in the state has reduced drastically. We thought we are the only people witnessing it, but with the award you got from the wife of the Inspector General of Police, it is an eloquent testimony that what we are seeing as a State, is also being observed from all the nation.”
The governor said policing in Rivers State has improved remarkably because the management of the Nigeria Police Force at the Force Headquarters and the State Command respectively distanced themselves from politics.
“As a state, we will continue to support the security agencies in the State. Our support for security agencies is not only centered on Police force. We are also extending similar gesture to the Navy, Air force and others.
“For us, we believe the primary function of any responsible government is to protect life and property. So, we have no option than to continue to support in providing logistics and everything that can make the security agencies in the State to function very well.
“Because we believe that if our people are safe and the life here is peaceful, there will be increase in economics activities and the Internally Generated Revenue will also go up.”
Governor Wike commended Mr Eboka, who is the 42nd Commissioner of Police in Rivers State for discharging his duty professionally and not joining the league of some of his predecessors, who were posted to the State to cause turmoil and instability.
The governor announced N1 million reward for each of the recipients of the Rivers State Police Command award and N10 Million to the Command for organising the event.
The Commissioner of Police, Friday Eboka explained that 2021 was a remarkable year for the Command because Rivers State emerged as one of the most peaceful state in Nigeria.
He thanked Almighty God for his grace and Inspector General of Police for choosing Rivers State as the venue for the launching of South-South Operation Restore Peace.
According to him, this came with the deployment of special forces with sophisticated equipment as well as combat helicopter to the state.
He commended Governor Wike for being very phenomenal in the attainment of peace and security in the State.
“Since my assumption of office, the command has received more than 50 patrol vehicles fitted with modern gadgets from the State government. This gesture alone enhanced visibility policing in the State.
“Recall too, when we lost men to miscreants in sometimes April 2021, the governor did not allow us to suffer alone. He wiped the tears of the deceased families with a total sum N220 million, which means each family received the sum of N20million.
“Recall the ENDSARS saga. At the end of that saga, which led to the burning down of police stations and vehicles across the nation, the State governor did not abandon us to work under the trees. But rather, the governor constructed a storey building each for the Area Command, Oyigbo and the Divisional Police in Oyigbo.”
Highlight of the event was the conferment of Governor Wike with an award for fighting crime in the State.
The founder and General Overseer, Omega Power Ministry, Apostle Dr. Chibuzor Gift Chinyere, was honoured for his unrelenting assistance to the State Police Command
The recipients of the Rivers State Police Command 2021 awards are: G.I.A Godstime Nwuju, best traffic officer; Inspector Winfrey Ini Akpan, best controller; CSP Bako Aghashim, best D.P.O; CSP Grace Wonwu, best female DPO; and the best visiting tactical team leader went to CSP Adamu.
Kelvin Ebiri
Special Assistant Media to the Rivers State Governor.
January 8, 2022.
GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
RIWAMA Sole Administrator, Bro. Felix Obuah Meets With All Service Providers Working With The Agency
The Sole administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA), Bro. Felix Obuah has called for an important meeting of all Service Providers working with the agency.
The crucial and mandatory meeting is scheduled to hold as follows:
DATE: Monday, January 10, 2022
TIME: 2pm on the dot
VENUE: Conference Hall, Rivers State Waste Management Agency, Port Harcourt.
The crucial meeting which is part of efforts to improve on the cleanliness of Rivers State, is mandatory for all Service Providers working with the Agency and all Special Assistants, SAs, to the Sole Administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency, RIWAMA.
The Sole Administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency, Bro Felix Obuah therefore enjoined all Service Providers working with the agency and all Special Assistants, SAs, to the Sole Administrator, RIWAMA to ensure they are in attendance, as the agency will not take it kindly with those who fail to attend.
THIS IS SIGNED BY:
Jerry Needam
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Sole Administrator,
Rivers State Waste Management Agency, RIWAMA
Bro. Felix Obuah.
Saturday, January 8, 2022.
SPN CONDEMNS BRUTAL STATE REPRESSION OF MASS PROTEST IN KAZAKHSTAN
WE DEMAND AN END TO ATTACKS ON DEMOCRATIC RIGHTS
Socialist Party of Nigeria (SPN) condemns the brutal repression of the legitimate mass protest of the people who are tired of massive corruption and capitalist misrule by the former government and the current government.
SPN hails the heroic mass protest of the working masses that challenged hike in fuel price on January 1, 2022 by Kassym-Jomart Tokayev-led government and other anti-people policies. Despite the brutalization, shooting and killing of innocent protesters, the working masses have stood their ground.
We demand an immediate end to the ongoing attacks on democratic rights and repression of peoples’ will. We demand the withdrawal of Russian troops from Kazakhstan. The vast majority have spoken and rejected this self-serving government and it is high time the government resigned and allow for a democratic election under the control of the working class.
We call on the working masses to form defence Committees that mobilize across ethnic lines, religions, nationalities as a basis for defending the movement and also uniting the people.
We also appeal to all working class organisations and trade unions internationally including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to give active solidarity to the struggling masses of Kazakhstan.
SIGNED
Abiodun Bamigboye Chinedu Bosah
Acting National Chairperson National Secretary
SANWO-OLU CHARGES APC RECONCILIATION COMMITTEE TO UNITE PARTY MEMBERS
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EBIRERI HENRY OVIE
January 6, 2022
Press Statement
Just Go! Nigerians Don’t Want a Successor From You – PDP Tells Buhari
…Says Mr. President’s Channels TV Interview Full of Lies
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) asks President Muhammadu Buhari to end his thoughts of a successor as Nigerians will firmly resist any candidate put forward by him and his All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 Presidential election.
The PDP also berated President Buhari for embarrassing his office and making a huge joke of himself by appearing confused and dwelling on false figures and bogus performance claims in his disastrous Channels Television interview on Wednesday, January 5, 2022.
While we understand that lying is the standard gauge of performance of the APC, it is rather unfortunate that the President is also in that frame. It only reinforces the fact that nobody is immune to lying in the APC. Of course, he cannot extricate himself because lying is the official policy of his party, the APC.
In his ludicrous attempt to rationalize his failures in office, President Buhari falsely claimed that under the PDP, from 1999 to 2014, crude oil sold for an average of $100 per barrel but collapsed to $37 per barrel when he and his APC assumed office.
Such false claims flies in the face of hard fact as the records, which the President must have, clearly show that when the PDP took office in May 29, 1999 crude oil sold at $16.27 per barrel and at about $80.42 and $63.28 by November and December 2014 respectively.
Under President Buhari and the APC, oil price has never fallen as low as $16 per barrel as recorded under the PDP but started at $37 to $39.44 per barrel in 2016 and had continued to hover between $60 to $70 per barrel to date.
It is on record that despite the low oil revenue when the PDP took over, it expanded the economy, paid off our foreign debts, revamped our productive sectors, provided conducive investment environment which encouraged massive foreign investments and handed over a $550 billion economy (largest in Africa and 26th globally) to President Buhari and the APC in 2015.
Mr. President had no answers when, in the Channels TV interview, he was confronted with the facts that when he took over, the debt stock was N12 trillion but now N32 trillion and counting; that inflation, which was about 9 percent under the PDP is now over 15 percent; that unemployment rate, which was about 8.9 percent is now 33 percent, that our naira which exchanged at about N197 to a dollar under the PDP is now over N500 and that the petrol price which was N87 in 2015 is now N165 per liter under the APC watch.
President Buhari should have seized the opportunity provided by Channels TV to show remorse, apologize to Nigerians for his monumental failure and national embarrassment that the APC government represents instead of trying to rationalize APC’s failures with falsehood and grandstanding about a successor.
The mindset of Mr. President as exhibited in the Channels TV interview confirms the fears of Nigerians that the APC does not believe in democratic practice and is determined to manipulate the 2023 election by all means.
That explains their desperation to scuttle the Electoral Act Amendment Bill provision for electronic transmission of election results, which will effectively truncate the APC’s plans to rig the 2023 election.
However, President Buhari and the APC must know that Nigerians are fully rallied on the platform of the PDP to face them in 2023 and that the resort to underhand processes and false indices like those reeled out by Mr. President in his Channels TV interview will not avail them.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU CHARGES APC RECONCILIATION COMMITTEE TO UNITE PARTY MEMBERS
…No petition from Lagos, says Adamu
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has charged the Senator Abdullahi Adamu-led All Progressives Congress (APC) National Reconciliation Committee to unite all party members in the country, especially in States where there are differences within the party.
Governor Sanwo-Olu while receiving the Chairman and Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Reconciliation Committee, who paid a courtesy visit on him at the Lagos House Marina, on Thursday, said Lagos is lucky because there is no petition from the State.
The Governor assured that the citizens will enjoy the dividend of democracy, which is a major essence of government, maintaining that with APC, the benefits can be seen in all the nooks and crannies of the country.
He said: “We are happy that the Caretaker and Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee headed by his Excellency Mai Mala Buni has put together this committee and I believe it is in tandem with the fact that as a big family, we would have different ideas, expectations or different intentions as to how things are being run in our various states and I know fully well that there are States where we need to come together and resolve our issues collectively.
“We are lucky in Lagos that there is no petition. It is not that we are better than States that do have but because indeed this is a party to beat and it is a party that everybody wants to be identified with.
“It is normal that people might have different expectations and different ways in which things need to run in their various states and so I believe that the assignment and terms of reference of the committee speak to the real essence of the constitution and the real ethos of party politics.
“Given the calibre of eminent Nigerians and members serving on the Committee, I am certain that the outcomes of these interventions that you have taken up will be very fruitful and the outcome will further strengthen unity in the party and will further deepen democracy in our country.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the chairman and members of the APC National Reconciliation Committee for accepting to serve the party.
Speaking earlier, Senator Abdullahi said his committee was in Lagos to seek advice from Governor Sanwo-Olu and stakeholders in the State and not for any reconciliation because there was no petition from Lagos to the national body.
He commended Governor Sanwo-Olu and APC stakeholders for the peace within the party in the State, advising other states to emulate Lagos.
“We appreciate the reception of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. I am happy and I speak for the members of the committee. There is no petition from Lagos State. We are all family and there is no complaint of anything regarding the relationship between the members and stakeholders.
“This is encouraging and this kind of state of affairs does not just come by accident, it goes to show the extent to which his Excellency (Governor Sanwo-Olu) and his team have been able to manage the party’s affairs in the state, how they have been able to advance the interests of the very complex party membership in Lagos. We commend you and the people, particularly party members,” he said.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
JANUARY 6, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS AMB (PROF) LAWRENCE BARAEBIBAI EKPEBU
President Muhammadu Buhari sends condolences to the families of Orokuro and Efere in Olodani and Kalama compound, respectively in Bayelsa State, over the passing of Amb (Prof) Lawrence Baraebibai Ekpebu, an accomplished diplomat, author and educationist.
The President commiserates with the families, friends and professional associates of the diplomat, whose influence in his community will always be remembered, especially in projecting the values of peace and unity among the people.
President Buhari prays for the repose of the soul of the departed scholar, and God’s comforting arms over the family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 6, 2022
LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT MEETS WITH STAKEHOLDERS ON THE MAGODO SHANGISHA DISPUTE
At a meeting chaired by Mr. Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola-Sanwo-Olu, at the State House Alausa, on the 5th of January 2022 with the Judgment Creditors (Shangisha Landlords’ Association), their lawyers, Commissioner of Police Lagos State Command, Policemen from the F.C.T Command and Police Headquarters, the Executive and Trustees of the Magodo Residents’ Association and senior Government Officials, the enforcement of Judgment of the Supreme Court delivered on the 10th of February 2012 in suit no. SC/112/2002 was deliberated upon and the following resolutions were arrived at:
- That the Committee set up by the State Government to resolve the Magodo dispute, chaired by the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, is to meet with the Judgment Creditors (Shangisha Landlords’ Association) on Friday 7thof January 2022.
- The Surveyor- General of Lagos State, Permanent Secretary Lands Bureau and Hon. Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development are to immediately identify available plots of land within the Shangisha village scheme.
- The Committee is also to identify how the available plots of land are to be accessed and whether any infrastructural development is necessary to access the land.
- Upon identification of available and accessible land, the State Government is to immediately allocate the land to the 549 Judgment Creditors.
- In the event that there is no available and accessible land within the Shangisha village scheme to allocate to all the 549 Judgment Creditors, the State Government, in agreement with the Judgment Creditors, will provide alternative plots of land.
- Whilst this exercise is ongoing, the Nigeria Police are to restrain themselves from any conduct or action that may instigate violence or breakdown of law and order in Magodo. They should be keepers of peace and act within the confines of the law – always. All the parties have agreed to an amicable resolution of the matter.
- The meeting ended with Mr. Governor thanking all for attending and restating his resolve to ensure that peace returns to Magodo and that there is justice for all.
- . The attendees praised the Governor for showing “good leadership”, which they said prevented violence in the estate. Besides, they expressed confidence in the Governor’s ability and sincerity to resolve the matter,
Gbenga Omotoso
HC, Information & Strategy
5th January, 2022
MALI: PRESIDENT BUHARI RECEIVES BRIEFING FROM FORMER PRESIDENT JONATHAN
A special meeting of ECOWAS holds in Ghana, Sunday, to deliberate on the political situation in Mali.
This was the subject of a parley at State House, Abuja, Thursday between the Head of the ECOWAS Mediation Team, former Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan, and President Muhammadu Buhari.
President Buhari repeated his earlier avowal that whatever Nigeria would do on the Mali situation would be done within the ambit of ECOWAS.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
January 6, 2022
IKOYI COLLAPSED BUILDING: SANWO-OLU TO IMPLEMENT PANEL’S REPORT
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday, set up a four-man committee led by the Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr Tayo Bamgbose-Martins, an engineer, as a first step to the implementation of the report submitted by the Panel, which investigated the collapse of a 21-storey structure on Gerrard Road in Ikoyi.
Other members of the committee are Head of Service, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola; Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN) and his Agriculture counterpart, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, who is an architect.
The Governor constituted the committee after receiving the report of the Panel at Lagos House, Ikeja. It was submitted by the chairman of the panel, Mr. Toyin Ayinde, a town planner. The building collapsed on November 1, 2021.
The Governor said the committee would bring forward a report to be considered by the Lagos State Executive Council.
He commended members of the Toyin Ayinde-led panel for their commitment and quick response to the assignment given to them by the State Government.
Ayinde is the President of the National Institute of Town Planners. Other members of the panel are a structural engineer, Dr. Akintilo Idris; an architect, Yinka Ogundairo; a builder, Mr. Godfrey Godfrey; a real estate lawyer, Mrs. Bunmi Ibrahim and a lawyer, Ekundayo Onajobi, the secretary of the panel.
“Let me on behalf of the people and the government of Lagos State first acknowledge the very difficult task that has been passed on to you and the commitments and the quick response that each and every one of you gave to the assignment. We know that you all have been chosen from different professional backgrounds but you were indeed ready to serve the people for this very important assignment.
“Let me therefore commend and thank you for that exercise. I will be constituting a four-man committee almost immediately that will read through the report and I am giving them the end of next week to get back to the State Executive Council,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said.
Speaking earlier, Ayinde expressed hope that the findings and recommendations of the panel’s report would be implemented by the Government to bring a lasting solution to incidents of building collapse not only in Lagos State but nationally.
Ayinde on behalf of the panel members appreciated the Governor for giving them the opportunity to serve Lagos State Government and the people of the State, noting that the panel spent approximately six weeks on the assignment and submitted the report as well as electronic recordings of all the sections and videos of proceedings in a hard drive to the Lagos State Attorney-General.
The chairman said the panel visited the project site for a general assessment, coordinated the activities of the consultants who conducted tests on the site, received and reviewed documents from relevant MDAs and conducted 35 interviews. It interrogated 91 persons, requested and received 21 memoranda and accessed the home of the late CEO of Fourscore Heights Limited, Mr. Olufemi Osibono, with a view to gathering useful documents.
He said: “The tribunal had the opportunity to access the home of the late CEO of Fourscore Heights Limited in the presence of members of his family, where some documents that were scanned helped in gaining further insights into the case, particularly the processes that led to the construction and eventual collapse.
“The tribunal also hosted the representation of the developer’s company, comprising two legal firms. It is on record that in their first and second appearances, the lawyers expressed the fact that they were external lawyers to the company and had little knowledge about the case in hand.
“Having spent approximately six weeks on this assignment, we now wish to make our submission to the Governor of Lagos State who constituted the tribunal. We need to note however that building collapses is rooted in the collapse of values, morals and ethics, which we need to work on as a nation. We cannot sow the wind and not expect to reap the whirlwind. Therefore, ethics and due diligence need to be restored.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu on Thursday, November 4, 2021, inaugurated the six-member panel of inquiry to investigate the cause of the collapse of the building.
The panel was inaugurated at the headquarters of the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) at Falomo, where members of the panel had their sittings. Governor Sanwo-Olu also signed an executive bill to give legal backing to the panel during its inauguration.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
05 JANUARY 2022
Magodo fiasco, Governor Sanwo-Olu and genuine Leadership
By Gboyega Akosile
I have read a lot reactions and media reports on the engagement between the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the residents/property owners in Magodo Phase II Estate and a certain Chief Superintendent of Police, who was sent from Abuja to lead the supposed execution/enforcement of the Supreme Court Judgment on the embattled plots of land.
First, we must appreciate the leadership style of the present Governor, as a man who listens. A man of peace, down-to-earth and one who takes all shades of opinion before making decisions on any matter. Secondly, Mr. Sanwo-Olu, apart from building structures and keeping his promise across his administration’s THEMES agenda, always prioritises peace and security in the State above many other interests. He recognises that, it is in the atmosphere of peace and security that sustainable development can be achieved. Furthermore, this Governor cares about the welfare of all the residents of Lagos, irrespective of their social status, age or gender. This is why you see him engaging publicly with residents in Ajah over the menace of Okada riders who ride against the traffic. He has also had several other interactions with market men and women in Yaba, Oyingbo, Ikorodu, Badagry and other areas over plans of the Government. This action is only easy for humble and people-oriented leaders, who would not just sit back in their palatial offices to issue instructions. Governor Sanwo-Olu goes out to get the job done, even if it entails meeting with the people in their various areas of residence.
The Magodo issue is a bit knotty as it is legal. But, regardless of the circumstances that led to the current situation, the Governor, under whose watch the seeming crisis happened, must rise up to the occasion to address it frontally. Afterall, you inherit both assets and liabilities when one is elected into an office. This, my principal knows and understands very well and in line with the oath he swore to, that he will protect the lives and property of every citizen, he had to wade into the Magodo land issue before it degenerates into a full-blown crisis.
A few opinion writers had rushed to Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to paint a picture of what appeared like a “weak” Governor. In fact, I saw some laughable comparison of Governor Sanwo-Olu with Nyesom Wike, his River State counterpart. Pray, what would the latter have done under such circumstances? Would he have slapped the CSP for answering his question, however condescending, or ordered his arrest? Which arm of the security would carry out the instruction? Does River State, like Lagos State, have its own Police, DSS, or the Army? The writer that did this comparison needs to be reminded that all security apparatus is controlled by the Federal Government in Abuja and their officers are not answerable to any State Governments. What we have had in Nigeria is collaboration between the State and Federal Government. The structure is weak, lopsided and not in the best interest of the Federal system of Government that we practice in Nigeria. For emphasis, Governor Sanwo-Olu is not weak. He is a democrat, a gentleman, who will follow the due process in every situation and what happened between him and the CSP at Magodo should be a good reason why well-meaning Nigerians need to increase the tempo the call for true federalism, where all the Federating units will have their security arrangements and would not need the Federal Police to carry out a lot of duties in their domains.
Some argued that the Governor should have worked behind the scenes and should not necessarily have visited Magodo. This line of thought is at its best funny. Do you go to sleep when your roof is on fire? I believe no one will do that. Refer to the “invasion” of Magodo by mean-looking, gun-wielding police officers in large numbers, who laid siege to the estate on December 21, creating chaos in the area and fear among the landlords and residents. It took the intervention of the Governor for those police officers to stand down the following day. He did not have to visit Magodo before the situation was brought under control. He has continued to engage with the law enforcers in Abuja over the matter up till Tuesday morning when another round of crisis occurred. This time, the Governor could not and would not sit back in his office and watch some persons disturb the peace that is being enjoyed in his State to be threatened. That to me, is leadership.
I sympathise with those who shared the above opinions especially those who feel strongly about the Governor’s engagement with the police officer. I understand their plight and rightly so because Nigerians are not used to civil engagements between elected officials, who are usually Lords and their citizens. We are sorry to disappoint you as Governor Sanwo-Olu will continue to engage the citizens, who he considers as the major stakeholders in his bid to take Lagos to her Eldorado.
South West Governors’ Forum position
The Governors of South West of Nigeria have spoken loudly. They know that an injury to one, is an injury to all. No one is safe until everybody is safe.
In a statement signed by the Forum’s Chairman, His Excellency Governor Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN), apart from their condemnation of the exchange between Governor Sanwo-Olu and the police officer, the Forum made it abundantly clear that the present structure where the State Governors, who are elected representatives of the people, will have to seek help and approval from an appointed Federal officer in some matters relating to security in their individual domains.
He said: “The content of the video is very disconcerting, and this is being charitable. The utter disrespect, which underlines the response of the officer to the Governor establishes, beyond doubt, the impracticability of the current system, dubiously christened “Federalism”. An arrangement, which compels the Governor of a State to seek clarifications on security issues in his jurisdiction from totally extraneous bodies or persons, is a sure recipe for anarchy”
“We condemn, very strongly, this brazen assault on decency. We call on the IG to explain the justification for this intrusion. This is not acceptable. Any expectations of rapprochement between so called federating units and federal security agencies are becoming forlorn, progressively, due to deliberate acts which mock our very avowal to ethics and professionalism”
“We condemn, in very clear terms, the role of the Attorney General of the Federation, Mr Abubakar Malami SAN in this act of gross moral turpitude. “
“We, on our part, will continue to interrogate the current system, which treats elected representatives of the people as mere prefects, while appointed office holders ride roughshod over them as Lords of the Manor. If the purported Chief Security Officers of the States of the Federation require clearance from the office of the IG on matters within their areas of jurisdictions, only hypocrites will wonder why the current security crisis deepens and there appears to be no solution in the foreseeable future”
In all, with his intervention in many life-threatening situations, Lagosians have started applauding their Governor. They have confirmed his genuine love and care for the people he is governing. Magodo residents can now go to sleep with their eyes closed. The judgement creditors are also happy with Mr. Governor’s leadership approach and Abuja can be assured that, again, Lagos under Governor Sanwo-Olu will continue to rise above every challenge.
Clearly, however, what Nigerians need to clamour for is genuine Federalism. A system where there will be mutually agreeable terms on Exclusive and Concurrent List between the Federating units and the Federal government on matters of internal security, especially the Police.
Akosile is the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu
PRESIDENT BUHARI REJOICES WITH SEN. FELIX KOLAWOLE BAJOMO ON 80TH BIRTHDAY
President Muhammadu Buhari joins family and friends to celebrate with Sen. Felix Kolawole Bajomo on his 80th birthday, January 7, 2022, congratulating the lawmaker and administrator on the milestone, heralded by many years of service to the nation.
President Buhari notes the contributions of Sen. Bajomo to the economic development of the country before joining politics, working variously as Managing Director, Commercial Trust Bank; Executive Director, Union Bank; Executive Director, Savannah Bank, and Chairman of the Federal Housing Authority and holding the position of President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
As the Senator turns an octogenarian, the President believes the experiences and skills acquired over many years in private and public service will always be relevant, especially the exceptional leadership ability that he displays in building institutions, managing people and resources, and remaining focused on goals.
President Buhari felicitates with Senator Bajomo’s constituency, Ogun West, members of the National Assembly and all political associates on the landmark age, praying that the Almighty God will increase the celebrant in good health and wisdom.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 6, 2022
WE’LL MAKE AS MUCH SACRIFICE AS WE CAN FOR MALI, WITHIN ECOWAS REQUIREMENTS, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI
President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday received a Special Envoy from Col. Assimi Goita, the Transitional President of Mali, promising that Nigeria would do her level best for the sister country, within the requirements of ECOWAS.
Col. Abdoulaye Maiga, Mali’s Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization, led a team, which briefed President Buhari on Conclusions from the National Conference on State-Rebuilding, held in Bamako, December 27-30, 2021.
Responding to the comprehensive briefing, the President said nobody could love Mali more than Malians themselves, counselling that everyone should work within the tenets of ECOWAS, in order to restore constitutional order to the West African country at the shortest possible time.
“I am pleased you have briefed the ECOWAS Chairman too,’’ said President Buhari. “Nigeria will work within ECOWAS limitations to assist Mali. Every country has its issues. We fought our own Civil War before, so we may not know the totality of the internal politics of each country. But we will make as much sacrifice as we can for Mali, within ECOWAS requirements.”
The Special Envoy expressed gratitude to Nigeria for support to his country in terms of bilateral relations, and for the help rendered to the ECOWAS Mediation Team, led by former President Goodluck Jonathan.
He said the vision of Col. Goita was speedy return to democracy, adding that Mali wants to review laws guiding elections, “and professionalize the process.”
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
January 6, 2022
January 5, 2022
Press Statement
Buhari, APC Using Salami as Scapegoat for Failure- PDP
…Says Advising an Incompetent Administration is a Waste of Time
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) describes the appointment of Dr. Doyin Salami by President Muhammadu Buhari as Chief Economic Adviser barely a year to end of his disastrous administration as a design to make the economist a scapegoat for the abysmal failures of the All Progressives Congress (APC) government.
It is evident that Dr. Salami might end up being rubbished and diminished as a titular adviser given that the Buhari Presidency and the APC, in their ignorance, arrogance and incompetence, are never known to have any respect or regard for professional advice on governance and policy.
As long as the APC, with its insensitivity to the plight of Nigerians is in government, involved professionals like Dr. Salami can never make a headway but risk being smeared with failure.
If the APC government did not listen to Dr. Salami as the Head of the hurriedly established Presidential Economic Advisory Council (PEAC), it will not now take his advice in his new capacity because the APC government lacks the listening ears, competence, capacity, integrity and political will and desire for good governance.
President Buhari and the APC have never prioritized the economy. The result is a near collapsed economy with two recessions within six years; a 71 percent poverty rate, 33.1 percent unemployment rate, over $38 billion external debt and an unenviable national status as the poverty capital of the world. For this, they desperately seek to use renowned professionals like Dr. Salami as fall guys especially as we approach the 2023 general elections.
If President Buhari and the APC had listened to well-thought-out advice by patriotic Nigerians as well as the PDP on how to stabilize and grow the economy, our nation would not be in the current economic quagmire where over 80 million Nigerians can no longer afford their daily meals and other basic necessities of life.
The APC failed to heed the counsel to end its corruption, open up and diversify our economy, review its restrictive and exclusionist policies, invest more in our productive sectors, end its victimization of hardworking Nigerian entrepreneurs, adopt broad-based approach that allows for greater private sector participation and stop demarketing our country especially the youths in the international arena.
Instead, the Buhari-led administration remained lethargic, nonchalant, unconcerned, hubristic and irredeemably narcissistic. It turned itself into a cesspit of corruption and continued to provide official cover to inept, reckless and treasury-looting APC leaders and their cronies in government.
Dr. Salami should therefore protect his image by advising President Buhari to end his reckless borrowing and grow the economy by allowing for more transparency, redirecting the resources being siphoned by APC leaders to critical sectors of the economy, especially power and agriculture and giving hardworking Nigerians, especially the youths, greater incentives for active participation in the national economy.
For emphasis our Party admonishes Dr. Salami to note that his task of advising an incompetent, arrogant and corrupt administration would be grueling if not a complete waste of time.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
WIKE TO OGONI: BE MORE UNITED, STOP DESTROYING YOURSELVES
Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has berated the leaders and people of Ogoni ethnic nationality for promoting disunity among themselves while blaming the backwardness of their area on others.
Governor Wike made the accusation at the 30th celebration of Ogoni Day with the theme, “Leaving no one behind”, that held at the Birabi Memorial Grammar School, Bori town, in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State on Tuesday.
Specifically, Governor Wike queried how many Ogoni leaders can truly defend the interest of Ogoni land, and genuinely pursue issues of environmental degradation and resource control with the same zest demonstrated by their forebears like late Ken Saro-Wiwa, without selling out.
“People like Ken Saro-Wiwa and all of the people you’re celebrating on Ogoni Day, how many of you can today stand for what Ken (Saro-Wiwa) stood for; how many can today stand for the great Ogoni men who died for your struggle.”
He noted with regret how some Ogoni people have now debased the struggle and have rather used it to collect money from those who do not want the goals of the struggle achieved. According to the governor, such monetary largess they make can best be described as blood money and wondered with what conscience that they gather each year to celebrate a struggle that they have betrayed.
“You use Ogoni Day to make money. God will never forgive you. I will never be a party to make blood money. All of you0, you’re here today for Ogoni Day, are you standing firm for Ogoni people? Are you standing firm for the spirit of those who died for you? Go and check your conscience. Ogoni people check your conscience.”
The governor asserted that he had never betrayed Rivers’ interest but defended it with courage including pursuing the OML 11 law suit at the Supreme Court. He observed that the case may not concluded before his tenure will end, but it may secure the most needed ownership right of such resources to the people.
“You people are talking about OML 11. Today, I’m in Supreme Court to challenge the federal government and NNPC. I will not be governor forever, I’m leaving next year, but God in heaven will bear me witness, I have protected, defended the interest of the state and interest of Ogoni land.”
Governor Wike admonished Ogoni leaders and the people to stop being used as agents of discord by the Federal Government and its agencies to pull down their own and betray the Ogoni interest.
He pointed to how Ogonis are contributing to frustrate the political career of one of their bright brains, Senator Magnus Abe, and Ledum Mitee’s long fight to become a Senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
The governor also noted that the same lack of unity seen in Ogoniland is prevalent in the entire Niger Delta because governors in the region, lawmakers and other levels of leaders are hardly working together in unison. According to him, the people of Niger Delta are the ones marginalising themselves because each tribe thinks herself as more Niger Deltan than the other
Chairman of the occasion and President, Ijaw National Congress, Professor Benjamin Okaba said the fundamental problem of the country is the refusal of the Nigerian State to restore the derivation principle that was abrogated by Decree NO.34 of May 1966 by Aguiyi Ironsi, the subsequent promulgation of Petroleum Decree 1966, and General Olusegun Obasanjo’s 1978 Land Use Act considered widely as the most obnoxious, draconian and unjust piece of legislation on land and resource ownership.
“The Petroleum Industry Act 2021, that is laced with several contentious and discriminating clauses against the people of the Niger Delta is yet another dimension of institutional injustice against the oil and gas host communities of the Niger Delta.
“Chief Obasanjo who is unarguably widely travelled, if excused from the paranoid of hypocrisy and hatred for the Niger Delta, will admit that in the United States of America which presidential system Nigeria borrowed from, it is the states where oil is found that own them and not the Federal Government of America.
“It’s the reason states like Texas is very rich, from proceeds of oil and gas. Same goes for Canada. In every federation, the undiluted application of the fundamentals of federalism (including fiscal federalism) are the minimum prerequisites for sustainable unity, peace and coexistence. Where else among the nations that practice federalism that permits the federal government to hijack the resources from the various federating units and communities, siphon them to the Centre on the Emperor’s laps, and shares same as booties in the manner we have in Nigeria?”
The former President of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), Ledum Mitee, in his remark recalled how he and other Ogoni leaders gathered at the same venue 30 years ago to commence the Ogoni struggle that has since been recognised globally.
He appealed to the Nigerian state to extend rail line to Ogoni which has contributed immensely to the development of the country’s economic growth.
Senator Barry Mpigi commended Governor Wike for gracing the occasion and identifying with the Ogoni people and their struggle.
Kelvin Ebiri
Special Assistant Media to the Rivers State Governor
January 4, 2021
Trial of Corrupt officials: Niger Delta Youths back Buhari, laud Akpabio
Trial of Corrupt officials: Niger Delta Youths back Buhari, laud Akpabio
Youth leaders in the Niger Delta on Sunday applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for vowing to rid the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) of the moral and political rot that has plagued it for so long.
‘’We are continually inspired by Buhari’s dedication and vision to addressing development issues in the Niger Delta region’’
At a meeting in Warri, the youth leaders praised Buhari for his decision on the concluded forensic audit of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
‘’We appreciate every sincere effort made to achieve development in the Niger Delta region’’
They commended Buhari for ordering the release of outstanding NDDC funds and trial of corrupt officials, noting that this creates the momentum which can accelerate progress in the region.
‘’The President’s directive on the completion of all viable projects, which have been abandoned by the NDDC, is a welcome development”.
Chairman of the Niger Delta Progressives Movement (NDPM), Mr. Julius Ita, told a news conference after the gathering in Warri that there was political will and good faith to guarantee the development of the region.
The youth leaders applauded Buhari for steps so far taken to prevent corruption in NDDC.
Specifically, the youths commended Senator Godswill Akpabio for breathing life into the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, revitalizing the region, instilling a renewed sense of faith and hope and creating a wonderful legacy for Niger Delta’s future.
‘’Chief Godswill Akpabio represents an extraordinary example of the spirit we honour in the region’’
The youths emphasized Akpabio’s depth of commitment and leadership in the country, integrity and honest work.
The youth leaders described the remarks of the National Chairman of Niger Delta People’s Forum (NDPF), Chief Boma Ebiakpo as “negative and divisive”.
‘’It won’t distract or deter the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio from his focus on developing the Niger Delta region’’ said the youth leaders.
The youth leaders said they expected Ebiakpo and his sponsors to cherish Akpabio’s contribution, wisdom and energy to the realization of the Niger Delta dream.
‘’An NDDC Board in the First Half-Year Period will be a distraction’’ the youth leaders pointed out.
PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI COMMISSIONS ORIENTAL ENERGY RESOURCES LTD.’S STATE-OF-THE-ART AIRCRAFT HANGER AND ANCILARY EXECUTIVE FACILITIES AT MAIDUGURI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.
PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI COMMISSIONS ORIENTAL ENERGY RESOURCES LTD.’S STATE-OF-THE-ART AIRCRAFT HANGER AND ANCILARY EXECUTIVE FACILITIES AT MAIDUGURI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.
…as Oriental Energy Resources Chairman, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, OFR, extols Julius Berger’s Engineering construction quality.
Oriental Energy Resources Limited founded by renowned industrialist, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, OFR, scored a high mark on its infrastructural contribution to the country’s development last Thursday when President Muhammadu Buhari commissioned the company’s new ultra-modern aircraft Hangar at the Maiduguri international airport in Borno State. The works also included the cast of an apron slab and a new taxiway constructed to connect the Hangar to the main runway of the Maiduguri International Airport
The Hangar materials, including beams, columns, and metal sheets, amongst other technical components were procured by Oriental Energy Resources Limited, while its precision integration and construction was awarded to the nation’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
In less than one year of commencement of the works, the ever-reliable Julius Berger has built the Hangar, which houses not only Aircraft but also offices and welfare spaces for the Client, its employees, pilots and executive guests. Ancillary facilities at the new state-of-the-art Hangar include two modern guesthouses designed and built to Julius Berger’s ISO certification quality standard. The respected industrialist, Alhaji Indimi commended Julius Berger for the excellent quality of works Julius Berger delivered for Oriental Energy Resources at the Maiduguri International Airport.
Other important dignitaries who accompanied President Muhammadu Buhari to the ceremony included the Executive Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagan Zulum, the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Borno State Ali Modu-Sheriff, amongst others. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Irabor personally actively led the security and military contingent to the successful ceremony in Maiduguri.
Representing the Managing Director Engr. Dr Lars Richter and leading Julius Berger’s delegation to the commissioning ceremony in Maiduguri was the company’s Executive Director of Administration, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi. Engr. Goni Musa Sheikh, Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc was also at the ceremony.
JULIUS BERGER FACILITY WORKS SIGNS FACILITY UPGRADE CONTRACT WITH IKOYI GOLF CLUB 1938
….as Club Chairman hails engineering construction leader’s works as preferred top quality, good and durable
Julius Berger Facility Works in Lagos has signed a facility upgrade contract with Ikoyi Golf Club 1938. Captain of Ikoyi Golf Club 1938, Dr M.I Okoro lauded Julius Berger Nigeria PLC for its widely acknowledged professionalism in the discharge of its engineering construction and maintenance works, describing the company’s work quality as “the good, durable and preferred standard”. He spoke Tuesday in Lagos at the contract signing ceremony to kick off the comprehensive upgrade of the irrigation system for Ikoyi Golf Club 1938 just as he enjoined the country’s building and construction services sector leader to sustain and better their own record in service delivery on the job. Dr. Okoro proudly added that the partnership between the Club and Julius Berger has come a long way and that it can therefore be sincerely referred to as historical.
Dr. Okoro said, “…on the contract, even as it is for the comprehensive upgrade of the irrigation system in the Golf Course, we advise that there should be an ad-hoc maintenance of the Golf Course. This is because, as you can notice, the current harmattan weather is now affecting the green grass. However, we are confident that the course will be revived and well greened again with Julius Berger facility works ably coming to the rescue. Julius Berger has a great history of performance with us. They constructed our car park long time ago, and as you can all see, it is still there as strong and good as new. So we trust that the company will do a great job of the irrigation upgrade.”
Chairman of Ikoyi Golfers Community of Nigeria Association, IGCNA, Mr. Wahab Aminu-Sarumi did not mince words in re-echoing what the Captain said of Julius Berger even as he wished the Golf Course a rewarding partnership with Julius Berger on the current project.
Present at the contract signing ceremony and flag-off of the facility upgrade works were Lady Captain of the Golf Club, Mrs, Aworanti Oyenike and Course Officer and member of IGCNA, Mr. Peter Eben-Spiff.
Engr. Amina Dotti led the Julius Berger team at the contract-signing ceremony. She assured that the irreducible Julius Berger engineering standard will power the works. Amina was accompanied by the Project Manager, Engr. Rhoderick Picana amongst others to the event.
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is Nigeria’s leading engineering construction brand, which offers holistic integrated construction solutions and related services including Facility Management.
The Julius Berger Lagos Facility Works is the Lagos-based operational arm of the larger Julius Berger Facility Management Works, which also have an operational arm located at the company’s Region Central North with its hub in Abuja. The Julius Berger Facility Works operate on the impeccable and irreducible corporate core values of best quality, safety, integrity, compliance, partnership and innovation all of which have become definitive of the company’s matchless technical expertise and excellence in the implementation of state-of-the-art methods and technologies.
Julius Berger Facility Works says, “…we are committed to providing a conducive environment to enable our clients achieve their overall goals through the provision of excellent and sustainable facility management from one single source, using world-class innovations, technology, skilled personnel and global best practices to ensure the functionality, comfort, safety, durability, sustainability and efficiency of a property”.
With affirmative International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certification as well with a proven record of accomplishment and delivery, Julius Berger Facility Works’ Quality Management Systems are well equipped to satisfy the customers’ needs. Julius Berger Facility Works focuses majorly on the provision of hard and soft Services for buildings and building systems, energy management models, refurbishment and upgrade of buildings and ancillary services, facility management consultancy services to corporate organizations and private clients with net worth real estate assets.
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Julius Berger Abumet Shares Love at Christmas, Donates food and treated Mosquito Nets to the Less-Privileged in Abuja
In the spirit of the season, Abumet, Nigeria’s leading full-service aluminium and glass solutions company has donated food items and insecticidal treated nets to the less privileged in its host communities within the FCT.
Some of the communities that benefited from the company’s recent Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) gesture are Idu-Paipe, close to the Idu Railway Station, and Piwoyi Community along the Airport Road, in Abuja. At Idu-Paipe, the company reached 540 households through the distribution of Insecticidal Treated Nets (ITN) to students and staff of LEA Primary School, Idu Paipe.
Addressing pupils and staff of the school, the Human Resources Manager, Abumet Nigeria Limited, Mr. Chime Nnabugwu, explained that the company is optimistic that the ITNs will help to curb the spread of malaria within the community while reducing the number of school absenteeism caused by malaria infection. Each student also received an Abumet branded string bag.
The Head Teacher of the school Mr. Agyo Sabo expressed his happiness and noted that the gesture was the first of its kind since he began working at the school. “It is very obvious from the kind of joy you see the pupils express. It means a lot to them. This is the first time we are receiving something like this from anybody since I have been here. And it is also quite an honour to have the General Manager (Mr. Alexander Hausner) lead the delegation to our school. We thank Abumet and its entire management and we hope they will visit us again with more in the coming year”, Sabo said.
In Piwoyi Community, Bema Home for Orphans and the Less-Privileged received about a million naira worth of food items, toiletries, and educational materials.
The General Manager of Abumet Nigeria Limited, Mr. Alexander Hausner, personally handed over the educational items pack to each student and encouraged them to be studious and hopeful for a great future. Receiving the other items, the Director, Bema Homes, Mr. Benedict Dzreke described the day as a special day for the orphanage. “For you, as a company to come and put a smile on the faces of our precious children is a thing of joy. I believe that what you have done today is not a misplacement. For the gifts presented to us today, we are short of words.”
Benedict extoled the humility and simplicity of the General Manager of Abumet. He said, “We want to thank you Mr. Alexander Hausner for personally leading the delegation. You have come here without the large entourage or a retinue of security we are accustomed to when a high-profit person is visiting the home. Abumet is a big name in Nigeria and your superior quality aluminium works are known all over, so also is the quality of reception that you accord to your customers.
“On behalf of Bema Homes, I want to thank you for the kind gesture, and we pray that the good Lord who sees in secrete, reward your company in the open. We want to see your company expand across Africa because of the quality of work you do”, Benedict Dzreke concluded.
Some Abumet staff who accompanied the General Manager, Alexander Hausner on the CSR outing were the Human Resources Manager, Chime Nnabugwu, and the company’s Brand Marketing Coordinator, Esther Duruibe. Others are Michael Ashofor and Ayomide Sunmonu of the Corporate Communications Department of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
Abumet is a member of the Julius Berger Group. It offers innovative, high-quality aluminium and glass products and services, making it available for delivery and installation across Nigeria and beyond. The company actively seeks the latest advances in aluminium and glass engineering and manufacturing, continuously upgrading its products and services for the benefit of its customers and clients.
Speaker Gbajabiamila commissions 5 roads in Ikorodu, Lagos
…Commends Rep. Jimi Benson for attracting development to Ikorodu
The Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila, on Friday commissioned five roads facilitated by the chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Rep. Babajimi Benson in the Ikorodu Federal Constituency of Lagos State.
The road projects, which involved the construction of link roads in the Sabo area of Ikorodu, linked Ayangbadejo street, Kaz Avenue, Ajeborigbon Street, Nike Olubodun Street and Ajoke Oduyebo Street.
At the event, which had in attendance traditional rulers led by the paramount ruler of the Ikorodu division, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu Kingdom, Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, APC Lagos State Chairman-Elect, party leaders, officials of the Lagos state government and residents, the Speaker congratulated the people for being beneficiaries of the projects and commended Rep. Babajimi Benson for representing his constituents well.
He said: “I am here to support Rep. Babajimi Benson and the people of Ikorodu on the commissioning of these roads. I am happy when my members are doing well and Rep. Benson is doing well. He has proven himself as a good representative, even in Abuja.”
Before the commissioning ceremony, the Speaker visited the palace of the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi on a courtesy visit.
The Oba, who had his chiefs in attendance, thanked the Speaker for the visit. He said even though the Speaker had visited him several times before, this was the Speaker’s first official visit.
Gbajabiamila thanked the traditional ruler for receiving him so warmly. He also thanked the Kabiyesi for always providing constant support and guidance.
Speaker Gbajabiamila also visited the constituency office of Rep. Benson and was shown around the office, including the office of the radio station, Ikorodu FM 106.1, which is located within the grounds of the constituency office. The Speaker was invited to say a few words to radio listeners and he enjoined them to be peaceful, praying that the new year will be a prosperous one for the country.
Signed:
Lanre Lasisi, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria
UPU at 90: Okowa lauds Urhobos’ contribution to Nigeria’s devt.
Delta Governor, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, on Friday, commended the people of Urhobo for their immense support and contributions to the development of the state and country.
Okowa gave the commendation in his remarks at the 90th Anniversary of Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) held at Urhobo Cultural Centre, Uvwiamuge-Agbarho, Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state.
He said that UPU had, as a socio-cultural group and through its human resources, played remarkable role in the development of the state and Nigeria in the 90 years of its existence.
According to him, UPU has played a major role in the advancement of not just the Urhobo nation but the advancement of Delta and Nigeria.
The governor thanked the leadership of the union for using its relationship with the people to ensure peace and organise them for purposeful development and being of great assistance to any government in power in the state.
“I know the role the UPU has been playing in helping to build peace in Urhoboland and in trying also to extend hand of friendship to other ethnic groups across the state.
“By the time our people in Delta State relate as one, then you would have helped government to solve its problems because once you have been able to establish peace it becomes much easier to develop the state,” he said.
Okowa commended traditional rulers in the state for their support, saying “at every point in time I always thank traditional rulers for the role they have played individually and collectively to the growth and development of the state.
“They have always been a strong support behind all the governments of this state but particularly in my time, they have done a lot to help in stabilising government and to ensure that we have been able to live in unity as a people.
“Let me also thank the kings for their support to the UPU which had contributed in making it the oldest ethnic nationality group in Nigeria,” he stated.
He lauded UPU for the honour done to some illustrious sons and daughters, adding that it would help in encouraging others to put in their best in the growth and development of the nation.
He acknowledged the cordial relationship between the Urhobos and their neighbours, and said that a hand of friendship was very important “because he who extends hand of friendship wants to have a friend”.
“I don’t believe that we must fight everything through; sometimes a kind word or a conversation can help you to get to where you want to be,” he said.
He admonished governorship aspirants to exercise restraints in their consultations and campaigns.
“I want to appeal to our sons and daughters who seek to be governor. It is usually best when you approach it on the basis of friendship.
“It is usually best that we are choosy on the kind of words that we use in the public so that we don’t start any round of fights.
“No matter how provoked, any person aspiring to the position of leadership must learn to control his anger and speak peacefully to people because in so doing, he attracts friends to himself,” he said.
He called on Urhobo people to prune down the number of aspirants in the governorship race, advising that it was in their best interest to reduce the numbers.
“When there are too many sons and daughters in a race, it creates its own challenge and I believe that the elders have understood this.
“There is a need to trim down and I believe that the time is now.
“I thank you for the support you have given me as a people through the course of governance in the last six and half years.
“It is my prayer that Delta will remain peaceful and united and whoever is coming will recognise the fact that we are better off as united people and once this is done we will continue to be stakeholders in our own state,” Okowa added.
Earlier In his welcome address, President-General of UPU, Chief Moses Taiga, had said that UPU was celebrating 90 years, a decade short of a century, adding that the union was Nigeria’s oldest surviving socio-cultural organisation.
He said that UPU saw education as the light that would illuminate Urhoboland and liberate its people.
Taiga told the gathering that UPU was working on bequeathing an economic legacy to future generations with the proposed establishment of Okugbe Microfinance Bank which was awaiting operational license from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Taiga said that the Urhobos would build alliances with other ethnic nationalities in the South-South and beyond to proffer a new destiny for Nigeria as the nation tottered to a new beginning.
“While we do not support secessionist agitations, we align with the call for the restructuring of Nigeria in line with the tenets of federalism.
“We support the call for the relocation of the headquarters of all oil companies to the Niger Delta and the call for election results to be transmitted electronically.
“Urhobos are in support of states’ collection of Value Added Tax (VAT), the enactment of Anti-Open Grazing Laws, the establishment of State Police and other such progressive factors that will make Nigeria great again,” he stated.
The ceremony featured presentation of awards to deserving sons and daughters who distinguished themselves in various disciplines and made Urhobos proud in the past 90 years.
GOV AKEREDOLU: WE ARE DETERMINED TO PUSH OUR PEOPLE OUT OF POVERTY
- Says Entrepreneurship Only Solution To Unemployment
- Ibukun Awosika, Folorunso Alakija, Others Speak At Ondo Unemployment Summit
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has said his administration is determined to push the people of the state out of poverty and unemployment through entrepreneurship knowledge economy, innovation and technology.
The Governor disclosed his readiness to invest more in entrepreneurship development and provision of grants for startups and those badly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Arakunrin Akeredolu spoke on Friday at the Inaugural Unemployment Summit held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (DOME).
Speakers at the summit include Mrs. Ibukun Awosika, Apostle Folorunso Alakija and founder of Africa’s Leadership University, Fred Swaniker.
While declaring the summit open, Governor Akeredolu explained that the letter ‘D’ in his second term agenda which is simply encapsulated in the acronym ‘REDEEMED’ stands for Digital Revolution and Entrepreneurship.
The Governor noted that the digital revolution and Entrepreneurship is not just an agenda but his passion to see that the unemployment rate in the state is reduced.
“Unarguably, we have come to the point of deliberating extensively as a State to take actions to tackle this problem of unemployment once and for all. We have always been concerned that the only enduring solutions to the unemployment issues are for our youths to embrace entrepreneurial development.
“This type of Summit is not the first in Nigeria, but it is significant because of the peculiarity of the seasons we are in as a country and because we have decided to refer to it as ‘Unemployment Summit’ and not employment summit, as we would rather address the problem first before the solution.
“You will recall that our State had hitherto been known and referred to as a Civil Service State. The little Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) we get is recycled around the public service and our capacity to generate more IGR was limited.
“We observe that keeping the civil service culture, in no time, the state will be in chaos hence the birth of the Ondo State Entrepreneurship Development Agency (ONDEA) for Poverty Eradication, Job Creation and Economic Development,” Arakunrin Akeredolu said.
The Governor said ONDEA was birthed with the mandate to create a master plan for massive job creation in the State, foster economic growth and engender business knowledge transfer for indigenous based entrepreneurs, MSMEs and job seekers.
He added: “A lot of people might not know the importance now, the fact about entrepreneurship is that it is the engine that creates new jobs and it is a great panacea for economic development.
“We are building the right foundation and it might take some time. Many of these entrepreneurial initiatives have great benefits that are not just for now, but for long after our administration, because that is when the narrative of this State would have changed.
“Our people would be more self-driven and self-conscious, and we have started seeing the impact. This Agency, within just a year Of Creation has trained thousands of people and there has been various empowerment of young people to support them with interest-free loans and grants.”
In her Keynote Address, the Grand Matron, Africa Young Entrepreneurs Organization A.Y.E, Apostle Folorunso Alakija, commended the administration of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu for opening up the state economy through entrepreneurship.
Apostle Alakija who presides over several entrepreneurial establishments said opening up the eyes and minds of the youth to employable potentials around them through the creation of Ondo State Entrepreneurship Agency, ODEA, is highly salutary.
In her speech, a top rated business woman and motivational speaker, Mrs Ibukunoluwa Awosika said entrepreneurship is the panacea to the daily increasing growth of unemployment and poverty which has become a cankerworm affecting the fabric of Nigerian nation.
Mrs Awosika who noted with satisfaction the Ondo State example in poverty and unemployment management, said the prosperity of Nigeria depends largely on the intervention of the private sector through the productive engagement of the youth populace in entrepreneurship.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
December 3rd, 2021.
Be trustworthy, steadfast, Okowa urges politicians
Governor of Delta, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, on Friday, urged politicians in the country to be truthful and steadfast in order to remain relevant in the scheme of things.
Okowa gave the advice when he paid a condolence visit on the family of the late PDP Chairman in Ughelli North, Hon. Lawrence Agbatutu at his residence in Agbarho.
Governor Okowa said late Agbatutu was his genuine friend, a man that was bold, selfless and reliable, praying that God should grant his soul eternal rest.
He noted that the late Agbatutu was one man that supported him politically in 2019 and promised to remain a father to his children.
While condoling with the deceased family, the governor told the children not to feel that the world had come to an end as a result of their father’s death, stressing that God will be there for them at all times.
He thanked PDP leaders in Ughelli North for being there for the bereaved family and urged them to maintain the bond of unity between the Agbatutu family and the party.
“I want to condole with the family of Lawrence Agbatutu on this sad loss. He was a very bold man, bold politically and he was a man that will tell the truth all the time and l loved him for that.
“He was somebody who you could exactly say where he was. He never at any point in time, played the game of l am neither here or there.
“I think that is good for politics and that is what actually endeared him to me. He worked very hard for our party.
“He truly worked for the party, he believed in the party and he put in everything in him towards working with the rest of the leadership to get the party working.
“I want you to be rest assured that I will open up my line of communication to you and I will do my best to ensure that the role he would have played in your lives, l will play that role,” the governor assured the children.
Welcoming the governor and his entourage to their residence, the eldest daughter of the deceased, Dr. (Mrs.) Omonefe Moses thanked him for the condolence visit.
She disclosed that members of the family were not unaware of the enormous positive role the governor played in the life of their departed father.
While saying that she was a direct beneficiary of the governor’s magnanimous gesture, she thanked him for being a nice man to their family.
Dr. (Mrs.) Moses, therefore, appealed to Governor Okowa to see them as his adopted children as their backbone was no more.
“We are not unaware of the good role you played in the life of our father until his death. I am a direct beneficiary of your magnanimous gesture.
“On behalf of my siblings, l thank you immensely for being a nice man to our family. I plead with you to see us as your adopted children as our backbone is gone,” she added.
OAU TO HONOUR GOV AKEREDOLU WITH DISTINGUISHED GREAT IFE ALUMNUS AWARD
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Aketi , SAN, will tomorrow, Saturday, December 4, 2021 be conferred with the Obafemi Awolowo University Distinguished Great Ife Alumnus Award.
The Governor is among the 60 graduates of the institution to be honoured with the award of excellence as part of the activities marking its 60th Anniversary.
A letter personally signed by the Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Eyitope Ogunbodede, and addressed to Governor Akeredolu said “the award of excellence for very passionate, supportive and dedicated Great Ife ambassadors who have contributed over the past 60 years, is to further show the University management’s appreciation.
The Obafemi Awolowo University is Governor Akeredolu’s alma mater. The award ceremony holds in Lagos tomorrow.
Signed:
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
December 3rd, 2021.