News From Nigeria
…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
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.
Lagos, Nigeria 03 December, 2021
Wentors is excited to announce that we are adding a new member to our board who will bring an additional layer of expertise and insight to our work in the personal development industry. In the past year, we have worked nonstop to make sure that even more women in technology participate and are retained in the technology industry and we have done this by providing these wentees with access to expert guidance from women in top tier organizations across the world.
“We are not in a hurry to fill up board member roles, but one thing we are intentional about doing is that as we find the people we are looking for and as the opportunity presents itself, we take it,” EduAbasi said as she made this announcement to the team at Wentors before deciding to make the news public.
We believe the timing and person is both right for us.
Mfon Ekpo has championed the cause and has received national and international recognition for helping women in Africa, Europe and the United States translate their ideas into strategic income-generating and sustainable businesses in diverse industries including tech. It is this wealth of knowledge and expertise she brings to Wentors.
We know as we intensify our drive to nurture women in technology everywhere, Mfon Ekpo is the right addition to the board.
Mfon Ekpo, who is currently the CEO of The Discovery Centre, a training organization that specializes in developing effective and technological advanced systems, strategy and structure for organizational and individual development.
An astute professional with multiple degrees in Maritime Law, Business Law, Journalism, Neurolinguistic programming, Project Management and Negotiation, Mfon, an international speaker and a coach to top CEOs, industry and though leaders, who has also worked and trained for the British High Commission, The Supreme Court of Nigeria, National Judicial Institute and the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria amongst others.
We realize that there is a gap in the technology industry especially for women in technology and we want to make mentorship more accessible and Mfon’s diverse plethora of professional experience would help us create more viable solutions for women in technology and the industry at large.
As an organization, we are excited about this move and as we build a community that nurtures women in technology everywhere, we look towards the work ahead and the impact we would create together.
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About Wentors
Wentors is a global organisation focused on increasing the rate of participation and retention of women in technology through mentorship. In the past year it has grown from a team of just 4 members to a rapidly evolving community of over 2000 women in technology across the world with ambassadors in 12 countries across Africa, Europe and the Americas.
So far, Wentors has impacted over 2000 women in technology with its programs and with a bold ambition to impact over 8 million women in technology by 2030, the organisation considers itself an advocate for women in technology.
For partnerships, sponsorships or more information about Wentors, visit www.wentors.com or mail@wentors.com.
PDP’LL SUPPORT PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE WITH CAPACITY TO SALVAGE NIGERIA – WIKE
*I WON’T IMPOSE MY SUCCESSOR
Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has explained that only a courageous person with the capacity and vision to salvage the country will be supported to fly the presidential ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election.
He clarified that although the party is yet to decide whether such candidate will be from the southern or northern part of Nigeria, one thing is certain, the candidate will be one who can confront the evil tactics of All Progressives Congress, APC.
Speaking on African Independent Television, AIT, on Thursday, Governor Wike said the process to determine who PDP will field as its presidential candidate will be a turbulent one.
“Let nobody come and tell you that in arriving at a presidential candidate that it will be easy. No way, it can never be. You know, there are two types of turbulences. There is turbulence that will not have a crash, which is a normal turbulence. There are turbulences that there is likely to be a crash.
“Our own turbulence in PDP is the normal turbulence, which I believe we will get through it, but APC turbulence is a turbulence that is likely to lead to a crash.
“PDP has redeemed its position towards what Nigerians are expecting, because Nigerians are tired of what is going on in the country. So, they need an alternative, and the only alternative as it is today is the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP).”
Governor Wike said as a firm and courageous person, who having demonstrated such selfless leadership in Rivers State, he will only support a presidential candidate who will not mortgage the party for other selfish interest.
“And so, if you want to run for presidency under PDP, I will not support somebody who’ll just want to bear the name of former presidential candidate, I will not agree to that. I must see that you are prepared for it, and to confront this evil called APC.”
Governor Wike boasted that he feels fulfilled that PDP got it right with a peaceful conduct of its national convention that saw the emergence of a new competent national working committee, (NWC).
He dismissed insinuations in some quarters that PDP governors had forced on an early convention because they wanted sole control of the party. According to him, any true party man will love a PDP that is stable, focus and forward looking.
The governor maintained that already the new leadership of the PDP, waiting to be sworn-in on the 9th December 2021, have started engaging Nigerians and other party members on identifying what the problems are and how to address them properly.
Governor Wike said Nigerians are tired of the misrule of APC and will not allow their evil to continue beyond 2023.
“Nigerians are waiting. Nigerians cannot have this type of evil come up again in 2023. We will be doing a disservice to Nigerians to allow this to continue.”
He said PDP is already aware of the antics of the APC controlled Federal Government to ensure it holds on to power at all cost. According to him, APC is already gearing up to deplore unconstitutional means to frustrate the conduct of a free and fair 2023 general election.
Governor Wike expressed strong reservation on the likelihood of President Muhammadu Buhari ever assenting to the Electoral Act Amendment Bill.
“The president will not sign the Electoral Act Amendment Bill. The signs are already there. It is dead on arrival. The president does not disappoint people.”
He stated that the seemingly disagreement between members of the national lawmakers and APC governors over the Electoral Act Amendment Bill is devised to frustrate it.
The governor wondered why the president would be seeking INEC’s advice on a law that is already passed by the National Assembly. He asserted that issues of security and cost implication will be used eventually as reasons why presidential ascent will be declined.
Governor Wike said the current Senate and House of Representatives controlled by the APC lack the capacity to use veto power to override President Buhari if he refuses to accent to the Electoral Act Amendment Bill.
Speaking on how his successor will emerge, Governor Wike reassured that the leadership of the party will meet to decide who to support at the appropriate time.
Governor Wike maintained that he is obliged to ensure that PDP wins the 2023 governorship election, but he not impose any candidate on the party.
“There is no right thinking Rivers person who will say Wike’s administration has not done well for Rivers State. And so, I believe everybody will want somebody who has something positive to add.
“One mistake I will not make is to impose somebody. From my experience as a student of history, reality has shown that it is difficult for you to say Joseph is the man I can trust. Until you give somebody power and money, that is only when you will know whether that person is trustworthy or not.”
Governor Wike said God will not allow someone that will destroy all the remarkable progress the State has made over the years to be the next governor. According to him, God will ensure that it is only someone who is courageous, firm and ready to protect the interest of Rivers State that will succeed him.
“Rivers state is a state that so many people have interest. It is a state that you have to put your feet on the ground. It is a state that you have to annoy a lot of Nigerians, and a lot of Nigerians will hate you. But what is important is for you to know what is good for your people, and stand for your people. Do not allow personal interest to sway you against the interest of your people.”
FEDERAL MINISTRY OF WORKS AND HOUSING
Headquarters, Mabushi P.M.B. 111, Garki – Abuja, Nigeria
PRESS RELEASE
Jubilation, commendations as President Buhari Commissions Nnewe – Oduma Road
Jubilation, commendations and gratitude rent the air as President Muhammadu Buhari commissioned the Nnewe – Oduma – Uburu road covering 26.27 kilometres with 14 kilometres spur to Ishiagu connecting Enugu and Ebonyi states, today 2nd December, 2021.
The President who was represented by the Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu made a passionate appeal to road users to desist from acts such as overloading of vehicles and trucks, spilling of petroleum products on the roads and conversion of road shoulders to Permanent parking places which could damage the road.
“We must all do our best to avoid these practices, report them when they occur and act in a lawful manner to stop them”, he said.
Buhari who again emphasized his administration’s commitment to Infrastructural development gave the assurance that Nigerians will be witnessing more completion and delivery of projects.
The Enugu state Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi who was represented by the State’s Commissioner for Works and infrastructure, Sir Greg Nnagi described road contruction as the cradle of civilisation. He noted that the underlying benefits of road construction is that it opens up the door of economic advantage and boost the economy of the people.
The Governor expressed gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari and Works and Housing Minister, Mr Babatunde Fashola SAN for bringing the project to conclusion.
He said, ” This road will take its pride of place as one of the most critical infrastructure implemented by the Federal Government”.
Fashola, in an address read on his behalf by the Director Highways, South Zone, Engr. Bola Aganaba, noted that the road being handed over was a continuation of the good tidings being delivered across the country. “I am happy to reiterate that this is the third of many more project Completion and Handovers our country will experience in the next few weeks and months as we enter what l call a season of completion and impact,” he said.
expressed appreciation for the SUKUK funding which is currently aiding the progress of work on 44 roads across the nation.
Fashola said, “The SUKUK is currently contributing to Progress of work on 44 roads across Nigeria and as we complete them, events like this will hold.”
He commended all the stakeholders both in the private and public sectors who contributed to the actualization of the project.
His Royal Highness Igwe Patrick Oshiekwe the Ohazulume I of Ukete – Oduma, Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, expressed happiness and commended the President for the project.
Road users in the area who were obviously filled with joy expressed their gratitude to Mr President .
Mr. Patrick Ekwe said, “The project is helping us very well. It was very hard for us to travel to anywhere but today it is very easy, if you want to go to Lagos from here, you will leave today and come back tomorrow. Before it took us a whole day to go to Enugu but now you can go and come back within 2 hours.”
Kingsley Nicholas said, ” God will continue to bless President Muhammadu Buhari, the God that put the project into his mind and for his willingness to help the people of Oduma, may the good God continue to bless him.”
For Princess Nkem Ngirim the project will help the people to take their goods to the market and boost their economy. She said, ” We thank our able President Muhammadu Buhari for remembering us, giving us access road to other places.”
She added that a journey that used to take them about 5 hours can now be covered within 30 minutes.
It could be recalled that the 304 kilometre Sokoto – Tambuwal -Jega -Kontagora – Makera road in Sokoto and Kebbi States and the Vandeikya -Obudu Cattle Ranch road in Benue and Cross River states were recently commissioned on November 25th and 29th 2021 respectively.
Boade Akinola
Director Press and Public Relations
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU: LAGOS’LL REMAIN REFERENCE POINT FOR IMPACTFUL, INNOVATIVE EDUCATION
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to education and technology, saying his government will ensure that Lagos State remains the reference point for impactful, inclusive and innovative education.
He said education and technology would continue to occupy prime positions in his government because quality education and educational leadership are both critical to the execution of the T.H.E.M.E.S development agenda of his administration.
Governor Sanwo-Olu made the statement at the 2021 annual Governor’s Lecture of the Lagos State University (LASU) Alumni Association with the theme “Educational leadership and technology as viable options for economic recovery and nationhood: The experience of Lagos State,” held at LASU main campus, Ojo on Thursday.
The Governor said his administration is committing substantial resources to the provision of quality education that is needed to actualise economic recovery in a digitised world because the State Government recognises the transformational gains of integrating quality education with innovative technological solutions for economic recovery.
He said the State Government is closing the digital divide by collaborating with the private sector to deploy metropolitan fibre optics across the State, noting that his administration has implemented 3,000km of metro fibre connection.
“Our administration understands the key role that education and technology play in transforming the society, which explains why we made education one of the major pillars of our T.H.E.M.E.S Development Agenda (Traffic Management and Transportation, Health and Environment, Education and Technology, Making Lagos a 21st Economy, Entertainment and Tourism and Governance and Security).
“In the last two years, we have made extensive investments in education and technology but a major take away from the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on how we live, socialize and conduct business is the need for policymakers to determine how we can further use technology for sustainable economic growth.
“There must be intentional efforts by all stakeholders to promote equitable and quality education so that the products of our schools are equipped with the critical skills needed to proffer lasting solutions to our socio-economic problems. There is also no better time than now to deepen productive discourse on how we will continue to utilize technology to make life more meaningful.
“The indubitable fact is that technology now has a significant impact on the business and economic environment and we must as a matter of urgency accelerate the adoption of new technologies for sustainable development and economic stability,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said knowledge expansion is a crucial component of the 21st-century academic system and therefore tasked educators and educational leaders to harness the power of technology to produce skilled graduates who are able to drive long-term economic recovery.
“In Lagos State, we have been able to achieve some of our educational goals through a systematic blend of our curriculum with technology and the selfless efforts of our educators. We now operate an improved educational system with enhanced institutional capacity for digital learning,” the governor said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also commended the LASU Alumni for remaining passionate about the continued growth and development of the institution as well as being worthy ambassadors of the school and remaining loyal to LASU long after they passed through the school.
“All over the world, alumni associations have become strategic players in educational and governmental issues: I am proud of your association’s commitment to ensuring that LASU becomes one of the best universities in the world; I assure you that this is my administration’s goal too and we will continue to create the enabling environment for LASU to thrive,” he said.
Speaking earlier, the Vice Chancellor of LASU, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello said Governor Sanwo-Olu has demonstrated quality leadership in the governance of the State and in the administration of all the tertiary institutions in Lagos State.
She said Governor Sanwo-Olu’s prompt response to all issues pertaining to the Lagos State University and the entire State is unprecedented.
“The Governor has demonstrated quality leadership and support for the University by the prompt release of monthly subvention for payment of salaries, immediate release of funds for accreditation, commencement of the construction of over 9,000-bed space students hostel on Ojo Campus and the release of additional N4 billion to the 2022 University Budget.
“Mr. Governor has also taken steps to renovate and revamp the Epe Campus of the University, unprecedented support of the Lagos State University College of Medicine and various ongoing projects across our campuses,” she said.
The Vice Chancellor said LASU management would continue to align with the six points strategic goals of the University to achieve the mandate of the institution and therefore urged the Governor to continue to support in meeting the needs of the institution.
The Vice Chancellor while commending LASU Alumni Association for consistently demonstrating its commitment to the development of the school said the association had brought about growth and development of networks for mutual support.
In his address, the Chairman of the occasion, Senator Seye Ogunlewe, stressed the need for additional universities in Lagos State, saying having more universities in the state will provide the opportunity for youths, especially Lagos indigenes and residents to be admitted into universities.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
DECEMBER 2, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU: LAGOS’LL REMAIN REFERENCE POINT FOR IMPACTFUL, INNOVATIVE EDUCATION
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to education and technology, saying his government will ensure that Lagos State remains the reference point for impactful, inclusive and innovative education.
He said education and technology would continue to occupy prime positions in his government because quality education and educational leadership are both critical to the execution of the T.H.E.M.E.S development agenda of his administration.
Governor Sanwo-Olu made the statement at the 2021 annual Governor’s Lecture of the Lagos State University (LASU) Alumni Association with the theme “Educational leadership and technology as viable options for economic recovery and nationhood: The experience of Lagos State,” held at LASU main campus, Ojo on Thursday.
The Governor said his administration is committing substantial resources to the provision of quality education that is needed to actualise economic recovery in a digitised world because the State Government recognises the transformational gains of integrating quality education with innovative technological solutions for economic recovery.
He said the State Government is closing the digital divide by collaborating with the private sector to deploy metropolitan fibre optics across the State, noting that his administration has implemented 3,000km of metro fibre connection.
“Our administration understands the key role that education and technology play in transforming the society, which explains why we made education one of the major pillars of our T.H.E.M.E.S Development Agenda (Traffic Management and Transportation, Health and Environment, Education and Technology, Making Lagos a 21st Economy, Entertainment and Tourism and Governance and Security).
“In the last two years, we have made extensive investments in education and technology but a major take away from the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on how we live, socialize and conduct business is the need for policymakers to determine how we can further use technology for sustainable economic growth.
“There must be intentional efforts by all stakeholders to promote equitable and quality education so that the products of our schools are equipped with the critical skills needed to proffer lasting solutions to our socio-economic problems. There is also no better time than now to deepen productive discourse on how we will continue to utilize technology to make life more meaningful.
“The indubitable fact is that technology now has a significant impact on the business and economic environment and we must as a matter of urgency accelerate the adoption of new technologies for sustainable development and economic stability,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said knowledge expansion is a crucial component of the 21st-century academic system and therefore tasked educators and educational leaders to harness the power of technology to produce skilled graduates who are able to drive long-term economic recovery.
“In Lagos State, we have been able to achieve some of our educational goals through a systematic blend of our curriculum with technology and the selfless efforts of our educators. We now operate an improved educational system with enhanced institutional capacity for digital learning,” the governor said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also commended the LASU Alumni for remaining passionate about the continued growth and development of the institution as well as being worthy ambassadors of the school and remaining loyal to LASU long after they passed through the school.
“All over the world, alumni associations have become strategic players in educational and governmental issues: I am proud of your association’s commitment to ensuring that LASU becomes one of the best universities in the world; I assure you that this is my administration’s goal too and we will continue to create the enabling environment for LASU to thrive,” he said.
Speaking earlier, the Vice Chancellor of LASU, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello said Governor Sanwo-Olu has demonstrated quality leadership in the governance of the State and in the administration of all the tertiary institutions in Lagos State.
She said Governor Sanwo-Olu’s prompt response to all issues pertaining to the Lagos State University and the entire State is unprecedented.
“The Governor has demonstrated quality leadership and support for the University by the prompt release of monthly subvention for payment of salaries, immediate release of funds for accreditation, commencement of the construction of over 9,000-bed space students hostel on Ojo Campus and the release of additional N4 billion to the 2022 University Budget.
“Mr. Governor has also taken steps to renovate and revamp the Epe Campus of the University, unprecedented support of the Lagos State University College of Medicine and various ongoing projects across our campuses,” she said.
The Vice Chancellor said LASU management would continue to align with the six points strategic goals of the University to achieve the mandate of the institution and therefore urged the Governor to continue to support in meeting the needs of the institution.
The Vice Chancellor while commending LASU Alumni Association for consistently demonstrating its commitment to the development of the school said the association had brought about growth and development of networks for mutual support.
In his address, the Chairman of the occasion, Senator Seye Ogunlewe, stressed the need for additional universities in Lagos State, saying having more universities in the state will provide the opportunity for youths, especially Lagos indigenes and residents to be admitted into universities.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
DECEMBER 2, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
WE’LL WALK FOR PEACE WITH YOU, LASU STUDENTS TELL SANWO-OLU
…As Governor Commissions Biggest Students’ Arcade In Nigeria
Lagos State University (LASU) students on Thursday expressed their readiness to participate in the proposed Peace Walk, being organised by the State Government to herald the healing of Lagos in the aftermath of last year’s EndSARS protests in the State.
The students of the state-owned tertiary institution who came out in large numbers to welcome the Governor, who is also the Visitor of the institution, said they have all resolved to participate in “A Walk for Peace” with the Governor for peace and prosperity of the State.
LASU students made their resolve on the Peace Walk known through their Student Union President, Comrade Oladipupo Uthman Badmus on Thursday during the sitting of the Students Representatives Council, the legislative arms of the Students Union Government.
The sitting was the first Council session to be held at the newly built Students Arcade of the school, which was commissioned by Governor Sanwo-Olu on Thursday.
The LASU Students Arcade is the largest Student Union Building in any Nigerian tertiary institution.
Speaking during the sitting, which was witnessed by Governor Sanwo-Olu, the Vice Chancellor of LASU, Prof. Ibiyemi Tunji-Bello, Special Adviser to Governor on Education, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab and members of the institution’s Governing Board, among others, President of the Student Union, Comrade Oladipupo Uthman Badmus and Speaker of the Students Representatives Council, Rt. Hon. Mustapha Adejuwon, who led students to welcome Governor Sanwo-Olu described him as Youth-Centric Governor.
They commended the Governor’s giant strides in Lagos State, especially in the education sector.
“To Mr. Governor, Sir, it is what you signed up for but we are indebted to you. Be rest assured, whenever you walk, we will work with you. We will be by your side. Whenever you run, we will run with you to the end,” Badmus assured on behalf of LASU students.
Governor Sanwo-Olu who had the first session with the Students Representatives Council, charged the students to join hands with the State Government and LASU management for the institution to make it competitive among notable universities in the world.
Governor Sanwo-Olu during the sitting announced a donation of two brand new big buses to the Student Union to ease movement around the campus as well as other gadgets and equipment for students’ use.
He said: “I want to tell you that we are in this journey together and together, we will build the biggest university in the whole of Africa and it will compete with the greatest universities in the entire world.
“I feel highly honoured that all of you have turned out in large numbers to come and see the possibilities of what we can do collectively.
“This arcade will provide the right atmosphere for the leadership of the Student Union of LASU and opportunity for students management better relationship. It would provide an opportunity to engage with the wonderful youths in LASU, because this is also a building to develop the future leaders that are leaders here today.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
DECEMBER 2, 2021
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Fathima Beckmann promoted to Vice President of Global Inclusion, ViacomCBS Networks International (VCNI)
Beckmann to Lead a Global Team in Driving DE&I Strategies for VCNI
LAGOS, December 2, 2021 – ViacomCBS Networks International (VCNI) has announced the appointment of Fathima Beckmann to Vice President of Global Inclusion for VCNI. Reporting into Marva Smalls, EVP, Global Head of Inclusion, ViacomCBS, and Raffaele Annecchino, President & CEO, VCNI, Beckmann will be responsible for leading a global team in driving diversity and inclusion strategies and initiatives for VCNI.
“As our business continues to expand internationally, it is important that our commitment to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion also grows, so that we are always working toward exceeding the needs of our employees and audiences around the globe,” said Marva Smalls, EVP, Global Head of Inclusion, ViacomCBS. “I couldn’t be more pleased that Fathima, a proven leader and committed champion of our DE&I efforts, will be taking on this crucial role to complement our international team and bring a centralized inclusion focus across our global business.”
“Fathima is an experienced global leader with a proven track record in mobilising and inspiring multicultural teams to a common purpose and vision with social impact,” said Raffaele Annecchino, President & CEO, VCNI. “In this important role, we are confident she will excel in advancing our diversity, equity and inclusion goals and drive meaningful change across our vast VCNI global footprint.”
Since joining the company in 2017, Beckmann has served as Communications Director for ViacomCBS Networks Africa, leading corporate, consumer and internal communications across Africa.
Beckmann has championed thought leadership and employee engagement on initiatives that drive impactful change through youth culture led edutainment on Gender Based Violence, Human Rights and Mental Health through the BET Global Good Award, Stop The Violence Campaign, MTV Generation Change and MTV Shuga.
Beckmann has collaborated with industry partners to effect positive change, mentorship, skills and development with UNICEF, World Food Program, Malaria No More and Global Citizen through initiatives from the International Day of the Girl Child, Africa Day, Youth Month and the “Draw the Line” campaign. She holds a Fostering Inclusion and Diversity Certificate from Yale University, is a WICT Rising Leaders Program 2021 graduate, and a Cum Laude BA Degree in Communications from the University of South Africa.
“I am honoured and excited to join our progressive and committed leaders Marva Smalls and Raffaele Annecchino in further strengthening our diversity, equity and inclusion efforts at VCNI,” said Fathima Beckmann, VP of Global Inclusion, VCNI. “We have a critical responsibility to elevate the voices and issues that matter most to our employees, audiences and communities around the world and foster a culture of respect and belonging.”
EndSARS: I’ll join Sanwo-Olu for peace walk, says Segun Awosanya
A rights activist and member of the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry on the Consolidated Report on General Police Brutality Cases and Report of Lekki Incident Investigation, Mr. Segun Awosanya on Thursday said he will join Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in the proposed Peace Walk, which is one of the steps being taken by the Governor to herald the healing of Lagos to bring closure to the last year’s EndSARS protests and the Lekki toll gate incident.
Awosanya who is currently in London, said he will join Governor Sanwo-Olu for the Peace Walk if he is Nigeria at the time of the walk because he is more concerned about a peaceful society.
“Because I am an advocate for peace, justice, equity and fairness, I will walk with anybody who wants peace,” Awosanya, popularly known as Segalink told Seun Okinbaloye during a live interview on Channels Television when he asked whether he would join the Peace Walk proposed by Governor Sanwo-Olu to kick start the healing process.
Awosanya while speaking on Politics Today, a programme on Channels Television on Thursday, said Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led administration is doing everything possible to ensure peace in Lagos and the government should be encouraged for a peaceful society.
He said the decision of Lagos State Government based on its White Paper to accept 11 recommendations, reject one, accepted six with modifications and forwarded 14 to the Federal Government for consideration out of the 32 recommendations made by the Judicial Panel of Inquiry, is a good development that should be encouraged.
Awosanya said “injustice is what we should insist must be corrected” and going by the White Paper released by the Lagos State Government, some of the issues raised in the report of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry have been addressed.
He said the decision of the Lagos State Government to forward to the Federal Government, the recommendation of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry that October 20 should be made a national day is commendable.
Awosanya, who started the #EndSARS online, also advised that those who are dissatisfied with the Lagos State Government’s White Paper should approach the court to express their grievances against the government decision.
Also speaking during the programme, a Constitutional lawyer, Mr. Wahab Shittu, said the White Paper released by Lagos State Government is commendable because it shows that the State Government only rejected only one out of the 32 recommendations made by the Judicial Panel of Inquiry.
He said the claim by the White Paper in respect to the deceased at the tollgate as against the report of the Judicial Panel of Inquiry is in order because evidence can only be based on facts.
Buhari has the right motives – Niger Delta Leaders
Delegates and leaders from the Niger Delta region on Tuesday said anyone who thought President Muhammadu Buhari could abandon the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) forensic report was living in cloud-cuckoo land.
The respected leaders also described President Buhari as having the right motives.
At a meeting to discuss problems and issues in the region, the leaders highly appreciated the untiring efforts of President Buhari and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabiot to transform the region.
Specifically, the leaders applauded Akpabio for his persuasiveness, extraordinary commitment to transparency and contributions to the rapid development of the oil rich region.
The leaders underscored Akpabio’s vision for a peaceful and prosperous Niger Delta region.
Meeting under the aegis of the United Niger Delta Democratic Front (UNDDF), the leaders applauded Akpabio for his persistence and track record of success.
The leaders hailed the President of the Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Forum, Mr. Terry Obieh for his consistent and constructive engagements with stakeholders to address developmenta
l challenges in the region.
They voiced disappointment at words like pliant, fringe groups and diversionary actions used by the President of the Niger Delta Elders Forum, Chief Tonye Ogbogbula recently.
‘’The verbal attacks against Buhari and Akpabio by Tonye Ogbogbula should be supplemented with encouragement and gratitude’’
A statement by the UNDDF after the meeting criticized Ogbogbula for his smear campaign against President Buhari and Senator Akpabio.
‘’Chief Godswill Akpabio is not retarding the development of the Niger Delta region’’
Signed by UNDDF spokesperson, Chief John Harry, the leaders accused Ogbogbula for falling into bankrupt politicians mind-set, thinking the only way out of the Niger Delta crisis is the inauguration of NDDC Board, fictitious contracts and business as usual policy.
The statement commended the Conference of Presidents-General of Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities (CPGNDEN), Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the Ijaw National Congress (INC), the Ikwerre People’s Congress (IPC) Worldwide, Isoko Development Union (IDU), the Movement for the Survival of Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND), Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Urhobo Progressive Union (UPU) and Itsekiri Leaders of Thought (ILOT) for supporting the current moves of the Federal Government.
The statement also commended youths, women, civil society organizations and other stakeholders in the nine Niger Delta states.
HOW WOMEN CAN CONTRIBUTE TO A PEACEFUL SOCIETY, BY PRESIDENT BUHARI TO AFRICAN FIRST LADIES
Ø AISHA BUHARI ELECTED PRESIDENT OF AFLPM
President Muhammadu Buhari Monday in Abuja pledged support to the resolutions of the African First Ladies Peace Mission (AFLPM) aimed at promoting peace and development in the continent.
Addressing the opening ceremony of the 9th General Assembly of the AFLPM, the President also urged African Leaders and other stakeholders to support the women in realising their core objective of building a peaceful society.
The Nigerian leader expressed concern that peace has become an elusive subject that affects development in many regions of Africa.
”The activities of insurgents and bandits have led to more widespread displacement and poverty.
”It is not in doubt that women and children are the worst affected by the breakdown of peace. Therefore, as mothers, I believe, you are in a better position to drive the processes of peace and actions where necessary.
”Indeed, I’m happy to know that your forum has been working towards promoting peaceful coexistence within the continent in so many ways,” he said.
President Buhari congratulated the Nigerian First Lady, Dr Aisha Buhari, for acquiring a piece of land on behalf of all First Ladies for the development of a secretariat for the Mission in Abuja.
”It gladdens my heart to know that when completed the secretariat will serve several purposes including creating employment opportunities as well as generating income for sustainability,” he said.
The 9th General Assembly of the AFLPM unanimously elected the First Lady of Nigeria as the new President.
In her acceptance speech, Dr Aisha Buhari pledged to execute her new responsibility with total commitment, urging her colleagues to work in unison towards a glorious destiny for Africa.
”With all sense of humility, I accept my election as the incoming 9th President of the African First Ladies Peace Mission.
”I want to sincerely thank all my colleagues for your continuous support and understanding and for entrusting me with this great responsibility.
”I pledge to execute my responsibility with total commitment and in accordance to the Missions laid down regulations.
”Your Excellences, Gentlemen of the Press, as you are aware, the task before us is a collective commitment hence the cooperation of all us is needed for the overall success of the African First Ladies Peace Mission.
”On my own part, I assure you that I will discharge the affairs of my office with honesty, dedication and inclusivity.
”My dear colleagues as we conclude this Summit, let history guide us to ensure that the Africa we bequeath to our children today is better than the one we inherited.
”Let us commit ourselves to working together towards achieving a glorious destiny for all Africans,” she said.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 22, 2021
November 21, 2021
Press Statement
Adopt Akwa Ibom’s Template for Peace, PDP Counsels FG
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) charges the Federal Government to adopt the template for national peace and harmony as initiated and being implemented by Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa-Ibom state in the drive to achieve sustained peace and development in the PDP-controlled state.
The PDP says that such will help the Federal Government to combat the current spate of insecurity, disharmony, disagreements, tension, avoidable conflicts and restiveness in our country at this critical time in the history of our nation.
The party counsels the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government to immediately understudy the model of the Maintain Peace Movement (MPM) programme unveiled at the weekend by Governor Udom Emmanuel as part of his measure to engender peace and development in the state.
Our party insists that with the right template at the national level, our nation will come out of the woods and regain its pride of place among the comity of nations.
It is instructive to note that the Udom Emmanuel template has enabled Akwa-Ibom state government to effectively manage contending interests, achieve harmony among the political class, enhanced public/private partnership, create enabling atmosphere for greater citizen participation as well as harmonious living in a multifarious state.
Under the MPM template, the energies of all segments of the state’s population; the youths, political class, business community, professional groups, faith-based organizations, traditional institution and private individuals are being harnessed for the development of the state.
Our party commends Governor Udom Emmanuel’s commitment towards ensuring a peaceful state, a situation that enabled him to effectively deploy the resources available to the state to impact lives, create enduring infrastructure, attract investors, provide jobs and improve on the living standard of the people, in line with the manifesto of our great party.
The PDP urges Governor Emmanuel not to relent but continue to deepen harmonious living which is sine qua non for development. The PDP also expresses confidence in the National Coordinator of the MPM and National Legal Adviser of our party, Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem, for his commitment under Governor Udom Emmanuel, towards the success of the initiative.
Signed:
Kola Ologbondiyan
National Publicity Secretary
PRESS RELEASE
IKOYI BUILDING COLLAPSE: TRIBUNAL AWAITING RESULTS ON CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS TESTS
The Tribunal of Inquiry set up by Lagos State Government into the collapse of 21 storey building at 44 B, C, D Gerrard Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Monday disclosed that results of the tests conducted on the construction materials are still being awaited.
It implored the public, professional bodies and construction industry stakeholders, as well as individuals, to submit memoranda that have direct bearing on the unfortunate incident, which occurred on November 1.
The tribunal, chaired by the President of Nigeria Institute of Town Planners (NITP), Mr. Toyin Ayinde, said that the memoranda should be submitted at ‘lagosgerrardtribunal@gmail.com’, noting that all memoranda, recommendations and submissions should be received on or before Wednesday, November 24.
Speaking during a press conference held on Monday at the tribunal secretariat in Lagos State Waterways Agency, LASWA Terminal Building (LASWA), Ikoyi, on the update and activities of the panel since its inauguration, Ayinde said the tribunal has not made its activities known to the public based on professional ethics. He said the Panel members are “compelled to speak only when investigations have been made, reports and documents submitted, queried, analysed and discussions held with relevant stakeholders.”
He said the six-member tribunal began sitting immediately after its inauguration on Thursday, November 4 and within two weeks of operation, it had received documents from some government MDAs, which panel members had started studying.
It would be recalled that on November 1, a 21 storey building in Gerrard Road, Ikoyi collapsed, killing over 40 persons, including the developer, Femi Osibona, while some people were rescued.
Subsequently, on Thursday, November 4, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Bababjide Sanwo-Olu, inaugurated a six-man Panel to probe the collapsed building incident with a view to preventing future occurrence. The tribunal was given 30 days to complete its task.
The Panel members are; Ayinde, a lawyer in a private law firm, Ekundayo Onajobi (Secretary); a structural engineer, Dr. Akintilo Idris Adeleke; an architect, Yinka Ogundairo; representative of Institute of Builders, Mr. Godfrey O. Godfrey, and a real estate lawyer, Mrs. Bunmi Ibrahim.
Ayinde said the tribunal had visited the site of the collapsed building for a general assessment of the rescue operations, and to determine areas where expert consultants’ services would be required, adding that members of the tribunal also visited the General Hospital, Broad Street, to interview some of the survivors, who could offer eyewitness accounts.
He also disclosed that the tribunal had listed more than 30 stakeholders relevant to the construction industry and the collapsed building, whose views, position papers and recommendations would be received and considered by his tribunal, adding that those the tribunal considered necessary to chat with would be invited.
The tribunal members, who observed a moment’s silence during the press conference in honour of those who died during the collapsed building, said the tribunal has engaged the services of consultant building materials testing laboratory for the purpose of investigating and conducting necessary tests on materials used for the construction of the collapsed building.
He said the tribunal has also engaged the services of a consultant Land Surveyor to conduct verticality tests on the remaining structures within the premises of the collapsed building, adding that it has written to relevant Government MDA’s to request for all files and documentation relating to the collapsed building, as well as writing all consultants and developers/contractors associated with the project on 44 B, C, D Gerrard Road, Ikoyi.
“There may have been concerns or agitations about why the Tribunal has not spoken to the Press. We will like to state that members of the Tribunal are professionals, and our calling demands that we make statements from informed and verified positions. We are compelled to speak only when investigations have been made, reports and documents submitted, queried, analysed and discussions held with relevant stakeholders.
“The Tribunal would like to state that some documents have been received from some government MDA’s and members have started studying them. We have also interviewed some of the LASG staff in the relevant MDA’s. We however appeal to members of the public, professional bodies and construction industry stakeholders, as well as individuals who have useful information and invite them to submit memoranda that have a direct bearing on the particular issue being investigated, as well as their recommendations to prevent future occurrence,” the tribunal chairman said.
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY, EKITI STATE GOVT OVER PASSING OF SEN GBENGA ALUKO
President Muhammadu Buhari shares the grief over passing of Sen. Gbenga Aluko on Saturday, urging family, friends and political associates to find solace in God, and the antecedents of the former lawmaker.
The President commiserates with members of All Progressives Congress (APC), people and government of Ekiti State, on the loss of the political leader, who served his state and the nation, and was dutifully committed to improving the lot of his community.
President Buhari prays for the repose of his soul, and comfort for the family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 21, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
“LET US ALL WORK HARD FOR A PEACEFUL, SAFE NIGERIA”, FASHOLA URGES NIGERANS
The Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN, Monday called on Nigerians to join hands with government to promote peace and security in the country saying that it is the only way to keep alive the memories of those compatriots who paid the supreme sacrifice to preserve the peace and unity of the country.
Fashola, who spoke at the Headquarters of the Ministry where he was decorated with the 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem, said working together for the promotion of peace and security would ensure that the sacrifices made by the fallen heroes were not in vain.
Reiterating the call for the promotion of peace and security among the people, the Minister, who, however, explained that the promotion of peace did not mean the absence of conflicts and disagreement, declared, “It is the resolution of those conflicts in a manner that does not lead to conflict that is important”.
“As human beings with our diversity, we could have so many conflicts and disagreement, but those conflicts must not lead to violence or lead to clashes. Those conflicts must be resolved before the day is over and this is the job that is everybody’s responsibility, not only those in government but to all Nigerians”, he said.
Fashola pointed out that if all Nigerians choose to live together the issue of conflict resolution would be an easy task adding, “And the less conflict we have, the less people who will have to lay down their lives to bring such conflicts to an end, and the less widows and widowers and orphaned children we will have; and the more that happens daily the better our country will be”.
Urging all Nigerians, both at home and in the diaspora, to support the course of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the Minister commended President Muhammadu Buhari for leading from the front at all times the cause of the upkeep of those left behind by the nation’s fallen heroes adding, “Nothing can be too much to support the cause that keeps the veterans and their dependants going”.
Welcoming the delegation of the Nigerian Legion led by its Chairman, Major General Jibril (rtd.), Fashola, acknowledged that the occasion was not just about the military but also about the affairs of both those who laid down their lives and those who “bear the burden of the sacrifice of our officers and their family members, in this case, widows, who in spite of their grief, continue to support and propagate the values of service in the military”.
The Minister, who described the “Season of Remembrance” as very important, declared, It is a very important season to remind all of us that were it not for the service of some people and their sacrifice in an ultimate way, perhaps our story would have been different. The least we can do to keep the memories of those people alive, to make sure that their sacrifices are not in vain is to continue to work hard to uphold the purpose for which they laid down their lives”.
Earlier, in his opening remarks, Major General Jibril said the purpose of their visit was to solicit for assistance from well-meaning Nigerians for the country’s veterans of the various conflicts across the world and in Nigeria as well as their dependants.
Major General Jibil, who said President Buhari launched the Emblem on October 21, 2021, added that the President directed that they should go round to well-meaning Nigerians across the country to support the course by launching the Emblem.
Accompanying the Chairman of the Legion to the occasion were the General Secretary and other top members of the Legion while on the Ministry’s side were the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Babangida Hussaini, Directors, Special Advisers and other top Ministry officials.
HAKEEM BELLO
SPECIAL ADVISER,
COMMUNICATIONS
TO THE HON. MINISTER
22nd November, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS PFN FOUNDING FATHER, REV OBIORA EZEKIEL
President Muhammadu Buhari condoles with family of the Founder and General Overseer of Christian Pentecostal Mission International, Rev Obiora Ezekiel, over the passing of the clergy, joining the entire congregation and Christian community in mourning.
President Buhari believes the religious leader demonstrated love, peace and joy in pursuing his passion for soul winning, and worked assiduously for the growth and spread of the gospel within and outside Nigeria, holding outreaches.
The President notes the General Overseer’s role in raising many spiritual sons, who have also moved on to mentor pastors, evangelists, and teachers, commending his vision for founding the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).
President Buhari urges prayers for the family of the departed, particularly his wife and spiritual partner, Rev. Dr Mercy Ezekiel, praying that the Almighty God will receive the soul of the renowned evangelist.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 21, 2021
FEDERAL MINISTRY OF WORKS AND HOUSING
Office of the Special Adviser on Communications
Headquarter, Mabushi P.M.B. 111, Garki – Abuja, Nigeria
PRESS RELEASE
SENATE COMMITTEE EXPRESSES SATISFACTION AS NHP PORTAL RECEIVES 7,315 APPLICATIONS IN SEVEN DAYS
As Nigerians respond positively to the Ministry of Works and Housing portal opened last Tuesday for a chance to subscribe to the over 5,000 houses under the Federal Government’s National Housing Programme, the Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN, has announced that a total of 7,315 applications for allocation have already been received by the Ministry.
Fashola, who appeared before the Senate Committee on Lands, Housing and Urban Development in continuation of the defense of the 2022 Budget of his Ministry, also submitted to the Committee the documents showing the number of applications submitted and those completed and undergoing processing as well as a breakdown of the number according to States.
And at the end of the defense, which took the form of a robust interaction, the Committee expressed satisfaction at the development in the Housing Sector with many, including the Chairman, Senator Sam Egwu, noting with delight that with the portal now opened, the Ministry has really launched out.
Explaining the criteria for pricing of the different categories of houses, the Minister, who said the prices ranged from N7.2 million, representing the lowest and N16.5 million representing the highest price, pointed out that one of the factors that made the difference in price between the Programme’s houses and those being built by private developers was size.
He told members of the Committee that the categories of the houses under the programme included1, 2, 3 bed rooms semi- detached bungalows and condominium, (blocks of flats), adding that there are also price differentials among the categories of houses based also on the size and space with all the bungalows, for example, having adjoining land thereby making it more expensive than the flats.
Fashola explained on the prices placed on the categories of houses further, “When compared with what is obtainable in the Private Sector in terms of size, the one bedroom with 77sqm of living space, two bedroom with 90sqm, and the three bedroom with 137sqms, are by far larger than houses built by private developers and justifies the prices placed on them.”
The Minister, who also noted that one bedroom flat in condominium, is 60sqms, two bedroom flats, 76sqms while the 3 bedroom flat is 110sqms, all of which, pointed out that they are more spacious than what is available in the conventional market, adding, “You cannot get them at such price in the market”.
Urging the lawmakers and other interested Nigerians to engage with the portal for answers to all the relevant questions, including quality, size and appearance of the house in any location across the country, the Minister declared, “Our thinking is informed by what we have experienced in parts of our lives and what we think is best practice. We think this is the digital age and we should begin to do things that are consistent with the age, not printing and selling forms”.
In response to a question on possible manipulation of the system, he explained, “We should not be creating unnecessary bureaucracies that will bring about unnecessary human interactions and possibly some of the manipulations you refer to”, adding, “that does not mean that any system cannot be manipulated but we think that this is consistent with the objective of government”.
“We are now in a country where we now buy air tickets with our handheld devices. We book hotels with our handheld devices. I don’t see why we can’t buy and sell houses with our handheld devices and I have done it as Governor in Lagos and I thought we should try it at the national level”, the Minister said noting that the Federal Government itself has said that everybody should subscribe to various identification means like BVN and so on. “We think that that is where we should be going”, he said.
Noting that the portal was launched barely a week ago, Fashola again urged, “Let us give it time to evolve and I think that 7,315 applications from Nigerians within this time is a very enthusiastic response”, adding that all those who had applied had paid N10,000 online to the Remita platform.
“So contrary to the assumptions that because conditions are difficult, that form that you would have sold in printed form is being sold digitally and government is collecting the money for administrative purposes”, the Minister said adding that although it is open to all Nigerians, some of the conditions that address facelessness include having a passport photograph and a tax clearance certificate and other means of identification like national ID, driver’s license or International passport.
Responding to concerns raised about affordability of the houses, “Affordability is not just a function of the cost but also the mode of payment,” adding that in order to take care of that aspect, the Ministry created the mortgage and Rent-to-Own options so that the payment could be spread over time.
On whether the Ministry was not duplicating the works of its agencies, the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) and Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), Fashola, who noted that the Ministry as head and supervisor of the agencies, was only carrying out a pilot project from which the agencies would continue to roll out in the future.
In his closing remarks, the Chairman of the Committee, and former Governor of Ebonyi State, Senator Sam Egwu, noted that the Minister had done justice to all the questions and thanked him for his diligence and commitment to housing delivery.
“You will agree with me that the Minister has done justice to the questions we have asked him. We are also impressed that the data you gave to us showed that you’ve launched out. You’ve hit the ground running. So, we’ll continue to interact with you … Like I said, we are happy and my members are happy, that is why the Chairman House Committee is here too…”, the Chairman of the Committee said.
Also present at the meeting were the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Babangida Hussaini and Directors in the Housing Sector of the Ministry, Special Advisers and other relevant Ministry officials.
HAKEEM BELLO
SPECIAL ADVISER,
COMMUNICATIONS
TO THE HON. MINISTER
20th November, 2021
Yoruba World Centre’s Project, an initiative for unity and development – Ooni
All is now set for the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi to join Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, at the launching of Yoruba World Center’s project within the University of Ibadan on Tuesday, November 23, 2021
.The project being coordinated by the International Centre For Yoruba Arts and Culture (INCEYAC) is one of the best things to happen to the Yoruba people all over the world in recent times.
Oba Adeyeye, while speaking at his palace when an INCEYAC team led by the initiator and Publisher of Alaroye Newspapers, Mr. Alao Adedayo, visited him to brief and invite him to the event said “I am sincerely glad that you respected children of Yoruba land have decided to institute a center for the study of our language and culture. In fact, I will say I am excited. History and posterity will not forget you in a hurry because what you are doing is going to ensure that our culture and tradition are preserved.”
In addition to commending Alagba Alao Adedayo and his team, the Ooni also used the opportunity to pledge that he will be ready to collaborate and also play whatever role is necessary to make the project a success.
Said the Ooni “this is the right moment for all Yoruba sons and daughters to proudly come together to ensure that this project is successful. We need this to enhance our unity as a major Nigerian ethnic group.”
While responding, the team’s leader, Alagba Alao Adedayo submitted that the aim of putting the project together is to ensure that there is documentation and proper care for old records, traditional tools and historical materials.
The INCEYAC team that visited the Ooni included reknown cinematographer, Tunde Kelani and Dr Adeola Faleye of the Obafemi Awolowo University.
In addition to the Ooni of Ife and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, others billed to attend the event include all the governors of the South West states, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, General Alani Akinrinade (rtd) and many eminent Yoruba sons and daughters in attendance.
He earned his undergraduate degree from University of Port-Harcourt and a Master’s degree from University of Lagos.
Ebireri has a postgraduate diploma in Journalism from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, a diploma in English from University of Lagos and other certificates from Broadcast Academy, Republican Institute, College of Education Technical, Akoka and the Independent Journalism Centre.
His curiosity for learning and love of teaching led him to become a teacher and later a journalist.
HENRY OVIE EBIRERI has always loved to read and knew from an early age he wanted to be a writer.
He began his career writing for various magazines before joining a daily newspaper as reporter\researcher.
He quickly moved up the ranks and spent several years as the newspaper’s political editor before making the move to join other newspapers as group news editor and deputy daily editor.
Ebireri graduated from the University of Lagos with a Master’s in Political Science.
He took a step towards the dream of journalism as a profession by going to Nigerian Institute of Journalism and earning a postgraduate diploma in Journalism
He also earned diploma in English
EBIRERI HENRY OVIE: ICONIC JOURNALIST
Born in Eku, Nigeria, Ebireri Henry Ovie had his basic education in Sapele, Aghalokpe and Eku.
The prolific writer also attended St Patrick’s College, Asaba, University of Port Harcourt, Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba and University of Lagos.
A noted teacher, journalist and political communication expert, Ebireri was political editor of NewAge, Group News Editor, National Mirror, News Editor, Business Hallmark and Deputy Editor, News Star.
The widely recognized and well-established media professional and consultant was a political aide to some top government functionaries in Nigeria.
He is currently a director in MediaGate Nigeria.
EBIRERI HENRY 0VIE
EBIRERI HENRY 0VIE is a director in MediaGate Management and Consulting Limited.
Born in Eku, Ebireri attended primary and secondary schools in Delta State.
He obtained his B.Sc. in University of Port-Harcourt, his M.Sc. from University of Lagos and Postgraduate Diploma from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism.
His professional background includes experience in political communication (government relations), political behaviour, print and electronic journalism, advertising, public relations and marketing.
A media consultant to senatorial, governorship and presidential aspirants in Nigeria, Ebireri is widely consulted for political strategies and alternative thoughts.
He was Special Assistant to a Deputy Governor in Lagos State and Chief Press Secretary to a speaker in the Delta State House of Assembly.
The frequent speaker to youth, children and women groups has published hundreds of articles in major newspapers.
EBIRERI HENRY 0VIE
EBIRERI HENRY OVIE is the Director of strategy and communication for MediaGate Management and Consulting Limited.
He earned his undergraduate degree from University of Port-Harcourt and a Master’s degree from University of Lagos.
Ebireri has a postgraduate diploma in Journalism from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, a diploma in English from University of Lagos and other certificates from Broadcast Academy, Republican Institute, College of Education Technical, Akoka and the Independent Journalism Centre.
His curiosity for learning and love of teaching led him to become a teacher and later a journalist.
EBIRERI HENRY 0VIE
Ebireri Henry Ovie is a Nigerian-born journalist_
Born on December 31, 1968 in Eku, Delta State, Ebireri attended primary and secondary schools in Sapele, Aghalokpe and Eku.
The son of Festus Omajemite Ebireri and Veronica Ikpera Umukoro, Ebireri is a convinced Marxist, political essayist and a man of great charm.
He did A/Level in Government, Economics and Religious Knowledge in St Patrick’s College, Asaba.
In 1992, he received a bachelor degree from the University of Port Harcourt.
Ebireri also received a postgraduate diploma in Journalism from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism and Master of Science in Political Science from the University of Lagos
Ebireri Henry Ovie Mobile: 2348036977194.
· Accuse NDPF, IIA, others of laughable antics
Women in the South-South geo-political zone on Sunday praised the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, for inspiring the people of the region with fresh hopes and vigour.
In a statement in Benin, the women applauded Akpabio for proving his sincerity by remaining constant to the Niger Delta cause.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is working hard in the interest of the Niger Delta people’’
The statement signed by the Coordinator of South-South Women Alliance (SSWA), Dr. Mary Alli, praised Akpabio for showing prudence, wisdom and courage.
The statement described the attitude of President Muhammadu Buhari as friendly.
‘’The news story on the scrapping of NDDC is false, provocative and mischievous. It shows disgraceful ignorance of the discussion in Nigeria on the repositioning of NDDC and development of the Niger Delta region’’ the statement said.
The statement emphasized the great work of organization in the Niger Delta development Commission (NDDC) and the services of Akpabio to the good people of the region.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is zealous in our cause. The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs is doing good service. He is promoting the interests of the Niger Delta people’’.
The statement threw a good deal of light on the positive change in the feeling of the people towards the All Progressives Congress (APC) government in the country.
Alli expressed the gratitude of the group to President Muhammadu Buhari for paying special attention to the Niger Delta.
The women also thanked warmly the leadership of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the Ijaw National Congress (INC), the Ikwerre People’s Congress (IPC) Worldwide, Isoko Development Union (IDU) and the Movement for the Survival of Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) for supporting the Federal Government reforms in the Niger Delta region.
They emphasized Akpabio’s plans for the people, his present services to the country, skill and wisdom of his recent pronouncements on NDDC’s board, forensic audit report and the region’s development agenda.
The women criticized the Ijaw Interest Advocate (IIA) and Niger Delta Peoples’ Forum (NDPF).
Specifically, the women expressed discontent with the impotent views of Chief Boma Ebiakpo and Mr. Arerebo Salaco Yerinmene.
‘’Some people care for nothing but their selfish interests’’ the statement added.
An apex leader in Imo State, His Eminence, Apostle-General Aaron Onyedikachi Awuzie, is dead.
Before his death, Awuzie was a member of the Imo State Elders Council and Commissioner in the Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC). He was 82.
The Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim and Seraphim on Wednesday disclosed that the burial rites for the polished, thoughtful and intelligent Apostle-General would begin on Friday, November 26, 2021 at Umuomi Agwa Oguta Local Government Area.
‘’There will be a Service of Songs at Awuzie’s compound, Umuomi, Agwa at 4:00pm while Social Night (Feast of Praise) will begin from 9:00pm at Umuomi Agwa Primary School Field’’.
A release by the Secretary of the Holy Order, Elder Dr. Napo Emuchay said the remains of the former Traditional Prime Minister of Uwaorie-Agwa Autonomous Community, the Ikemba 1 of Oguta Local Government Area and member of the Eternal Sacred of the Cherubim and Seraphim would be interred on Saturday, November 27, 2021 in his hometown, Umuifoegbuleihe Umuomi, Agwa.
On Saturday, November 27, 2021, the body of His Eminence, Apostle-General Aaron Onyedikachi Awuzie will be moved to his hometown, Umuifoegbuleihe, Umuomi, Agwa for family members, friends and all invited guests to pay last respects.
‘’A funeral service for the charismatic Awuzie by the Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim and Seraphim will take place at 11am while a thanksgiving service will hold on Sunday, November 28, 2021’’.
Awuzie, a doctorate degree holder in Business Administration, was director, JackBenny International Limited, Lagos.
Fondly called Abubausu, Awuzie was director, LandTrack Nigeria Limited, Plateau State and Manager, Oti and Sons Limited, Edo State.
Meanwhile, his associates have described the late Apostle-General as a colossus.
‘’His Eminence, Apostle General Aaron Onyedikachi Awuzie was a man of principle, a role model to many and unarguably a man of the people. We will miss him greatly’’
JULIUS BERGER WINS 6TH CONSECUTIVE AWARD AT #IAMBRANDNIGERIA’s TOP 50 BRANDS
The country’s widely acknowledged leading, most dependable and innovative engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, has strongly won for the 6th consecutive time its top rating as Nigeria’s Most Valuable Brand in the Building and Construction Services Category at the TOP 50 BRANDS NIGERIA awards.
The construction experts, last week retained its top position in Nigeria’s construction sector in recognition of its outstanding quality, innovativeness and best international standards and practice in the building and construction industry for 2021.
At a well-attended zoom event anchored from Lagos, and with the who is who in the various industrial sectors in attendance, Julius Nigeria emerged the winner in the building and construction sector with a Business Strength Measurement, BSM of 60.5 to strongly beat and best its own previous performance records in all the previous years at the ratings.
According the Mr Taiwo Oluboyede, the CEO of the BrandNigeria event, Top Brands Nigeria, the BSM ratings of nominated companies are determined by their individual Brand Identity and Client Retention, Quality Elements, Market or Category Leadership, Innovation, National Spread, Online Engagement and their respective Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Consciousness and engagement.
According to Mr Taiwo Oluboyede, “Julius Berger has a progressive and open-minded corporate culture. The company never stands still in its efforts to drive both the organization and its clients’ developments forward to its sworn allegiance to success.”
Julius Berger was also positively cited for its culture of punctuality and capacity to arrive on schedule for its tasks. Executive Director Administration of the company, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi, later told our correspondent in a telephone interview that: In Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, punctuality is the soul of business; as a propelling operational policy, we seriously work to arrive at every milestone and assignment as planned. That corporate culture proudly productively underpin our company’s reliability to our clients in every project. That is what we strongly bring to every work and project as our proud historical legacy; a tenacity and consistency of purpose that has made us win the highly coveted construction sector leadership award for the 6th consecutive time. We intend to maintain our productive momentum and remain the trusted and preferred partner when project timelines and success matters most to the client. That is Julius Berger’s lasting and reliable promise. On behalf of the Board, Executive Management and entire Staff of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, I wish to appreciate and thank the BrandNigeria organization for this valuable award, and for the objectivity that has continued to guide the ratings, keeping the nominations for the awards only merit-driven.”
The CEO of BrandNigeria, Taiwo Oluboyede, had earlier noted that it has been widely observed and acknowledged that: “no matter the challenges and regardless of the scope, Julius Berger approaches each project not only as a contractor, but as a partner for project success.” Tracing the history of its works in Nigeria back to the construction of Eko bridge in Lagos in 1965 which it added “still stands strong today” the Top 50 Brands Nigeria CEO said “…it is a testimony to Julius Berger’s leadership in delivering enduring quality.”
Furthermore, Mr Oluboyede speaking from the citation of Julius Berger from the BrandNigeria 2021 Manual, said that, among many other fine technical qualities of Julius Berger, the company places emphasis on the deployment of progressive construction methods and innovative technologies to achieve sustainable and value-driven solutions as the scope of Julius Berger’s operations covers “all areas of construction including the pre and post phases. Success is built on the strategy of having vertically integrated operations, which improve efficiency and timelines of project execution.”
To underscore the foregoing, Top Brands Nigeria said, “Julius Berger is a brand that is unmistakably recognized throughout Nigeria, a brand that has built a track record of delivering the highest level of performance and a brand synonymous with quality and reliability.”
The Chief Executive Officer of Top Brands Nigeria, Mr. Taiwo Oluboyede in his opening remarks at the landmark event congratulated Julius Berger Nigeria and other sectoral winners declaring that, “today, these are the best top brands in Nigeria.”
Other winners at the award event included the Dangote Group, Conoil, Oando, Shell, Total, Globacom, Guinness, Coca-Cola, Nestle, MTN, Airtel, Guaranty Trust Bank, Zenith Bank, Access Bank, Nigeria Breweries, Toyota, the Honeywell Group, Lafarge, Channels Television, etc.
Akpabio’s Performance: South-South leaders write Buhari
Notable leaders in the South-South geo-political zone on Thursday urged youths and women in the Niger Delta region to treat President Muhammadu Buhari and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio with respect.
The leaders also praised Akpabio for looking after the interests of the Niger Delta people with all diligence.
‘’The firmness and energy of the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Chief Godswill Akpabio, have been admirable’’
In a statement in Port Harcourt, the leaders described the views of the Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) and Wailing Women of Niger Delta (WWND) as contradictory and a direct attack on the Federal Government.
‘’Chief Godswill Akpabio is doing all he can decently for the Niger Delta region’’
The statement underscored court cases, studying of the NDDC report and implementation of the recommendations.
‘’It is not wise to raise the question of NDDC board appointment or inauguration at this time’’
Signed by the Chairman of South-South Front (SSF), Chief John Harry, the leaders described the NDDC forensic report as a great boon to the Niger Delta region.
They accused the Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) and the Wailing Women of Niger Delta (WWND) of working against the speedy development of the Niger Delta region.
‘’Nothing vexes us more than the ill-informed opinion of INYA President, Comrade Amos Etaluku. We are very annoyed at what the President of the Wailing Women of Niger Delta (WWND), Onye Nwadighi, is reported to have said.
The leaders said there was no need for women to march round the streets of Port Harcourt as well as the corporate headquarters of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) naked.
‘’The opposition of WWND and INYA to the reforms of the Federal Government in the region is based on unsound reasons’’
The leaders urged INYA and WWND members to back out of nonsense opinions.
‘’Please refuse foolish idea, shameful and destructive activities’’
The statement also emphasized Akpabio’s honest and sagacious opinion on the way forward for the region.
‘’We are satisfied with Akpabio’s performance and have written to thank President Muhammadu Buhari for the steps so far taken’’
The leaders vowed to treat as enemies anyone who should obstruct the development of the region by the current administration.
‘’We must all do our best to promote peace and goodwill in the region. The report of the NDDC forensic audit holds out a good prospect of peace and development’’