Urhobo News

STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE

NIGERIA CALLS FOR COMBINED MARITIME TASK FORCE FOR THE GULF OF GUINEA AT AU SUMMIT,  NAVY TO PROVIDE SEA LIFT SERVICES

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the Africa Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) to prioritise the establishment of a combined maritime task force to enhance security in the Gulf of Guinea.

At the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Sunday, President Tinubu expressed Nigeria’s readiness to host the task force’s headquarters in Lagos.

President Tinubu conveyed Nigeria’s position as the AU considered the report on the AUPSC, focusing on peace and security in Africa, and the biennial report on the implementation of the Master Roadmap of Practical Steps to Silence the Guns in Africa (2023-2024).

The statement was delivered on behalf of President Tinubu by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar.

“The time has come for the African Union Peace and Security Council to prioritise the creation of a Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea.

“I wish to announce that Nigeria would like to host the headquarters of the task force in Lagos,” he said.

Nigeria’s recommendation of a maritime task force comes on the same day that it signed an agreement with the AU to provide Strategic Sea Lift Services for AU peace support operations, natural disaster support, humanitarian actions, and personnel movement.

Nigeria’s defence minister, Badaru Abubakar, signed the agreement. Under the agreement, the Nigerian Navy will provide a vessel for the operations on a cost-recovery basis.

Nigeria’s Attorney-General and Justice Minister, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Naval Chief, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, and Director-General of the Nigerian Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Muhammed Muhammed, witnessed the agreement signing.

Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, the AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, signed for the AU.

President Tinubu expressed satisfaction that the AUPSC had already adopted the outcomes of a high–level meeting, including the decision to upgrade the Nigerian National Counter-Terrorism Centre to a Regional Counter–Terrorism Centre.

He also appreciated the Peace and Security Council’s decision to renew the mandate of the Multinational Joint Taskforce, addressing the twin challenges of terrorism and violent extremism in the Lake Chad Region.

On Libya, the Nigerian leader expressed concern that the instability in the North African country has continued to worsen security challenges in the Sahel and called on the Assembly to back initiatives to restore law and order.

“The Sahel cannot enjoy peace as long as Libya does not,” he warned.

President Tinubu highlighted the severe insecurity affecting countries grappling with democratic transition, including Sudan, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, and Gabon.

“It would not be out of place to explore the possibility of extending the inherent benefits of UN Security Council Resolution 2719 to support AU Peace Support Operations,” he said.

In doing so, he added that the AU must try to prevent the increasing incursion of extra-continental forces, including private military companies, into African security matters.

President Tinubu welcomed the progress in operationalising the African Standby Force, reiterating Nigeria’s support.

He appealed to all AU member countries and delegations to show the necessary flexibility and allow the draft MoU on the operationalisation of the standby force to be adopted.

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African credit rating agency:

President Tinubu also strongly supported an African-led credit rating agency (ACRA), noting that it would provide fairer, more transparent credit assessments for African economies.

“An independent African-led rating agency will help provide fairer assessments of African economies and reduce the bias often observed in existing global rating agencies,” the President said.

President Tinubu commended the African Union (AU), the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the Specialised Technical Committee (STC) on Finance for their visionary leadership in advancing an African framework for financing development among member states.

He noted that the Africa Financing Stability Mechanism (AFSM) is crucial as the continent continues to face significant challenges, including rising borrowing costs, debt overhang, low domestic resource mobilisation, and limited access to long-term affordable financing.

“The establishment of the AFSM underscores the collective commitment of member states in addressing financial vulnerabilities and fostering economic resilience across the continent.

“This mechanism is envisioned to support member states in achieving their national development objectives, and it will also help create economic opportunities for citizens,” he said.

The Nigerian leader acknowledged the significant progress made at the 5th Extraordinary Session of the Specialized Technical Committee on Finance, held in November 2025 in Abuja, Nigeria, which reached key decisions.

“The adoption of the AFSM by member states is expected to enhance financial stability, strengthen resilience against external shocks, and provide a more coordinated approach to managing financial risks across the continent,” he said.

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President

(Information & Strategy)

February 16, 2025

Justice M.S.Abubakar of the Federal High Court, sitting in Makurdi, Benue State has ordered the forfeiture to the federal government, the sum of  N232,396,714.00 (Two Hundred and Thirty-two Million, Three Hundred and Ninety-six Thousand, Seven Hundred and Fourteen Naira), a hotel as well as the sum of $4,977 (Four Thousand Nine Hundred and Seventy-seven US Dollars) recovered from seven fraudsters.

The forfeiture followed the conviction and sentencing of the fraudsters, prosecuted on separate one-count charges, bordering on criminal impersonation, money laundering, cybercrime and obtaining by false pretence by the Makurdi Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

The convicts are:  Tamaraudeinyefa Shedrack Brakekebebe, Godday Conference Brakekebebe, Terhemba Josiah Asagh, Nyiter Avalumun Elijah, Ahmed Alabi Akindele, Kennedy Torbem Ayanger and Hwande Aondooungwa James.

The charge against Brakekebebe reads: “That you Tamaraudeinyefa Shedrack Brakebebe “M” ( 24 years old) in Makurdi, Benue State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did retain the sum  of N64,762,169.00 ( Sixty Four Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty Nine Naira) in your Access Bank Account Number 0106661087 and the sum of N102,750,246.00 ( One Hundred and Two Million,Seven Hundred and Fifty Thousand, Two Hundred and Forty Six Naira) in your Zenith Bank Account number 2650121852, which you reasonably knew to be proceeds of unlawful Act, to wit; Cybercrime and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(2)(d) of the Money Laundering ( prohibition and Prevention etc) Act 2022 and punishable under Section 18(3)of the same Section.

That of Asagh reads: “That you Terhemba Josiah Asagh “M”( 27 years old) sometime between 2021 and 2025 in Makurdi, Benue State with intent to defraud did send electronic messages via Facebook App with fake identity as an Asian soldier, working for United Nations in the United State of America which reliance, unsuspecting foreigners were caused to suffer loss of about $300,0000 ( Three Hundred Thousand USD, which you converted to your Kuda Bank Account Number 2018650772 and use same in building a Century Crip Inn Hotel, Gboko and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 22(2)(b)of the Cybercrime ( Prohibition and Prevention etc) Act 2015 and punishable under same Section of the Act.”

They all pleaded “guilty” to their charges when they were read to them, prompting the review of their cases by prosecuting counsel M.Yusuf, A.S.Idris, A.Gazali K.T.Sunday and Imadifon Igbinidu, who urged the court afterwards to convict and sentence them accordingly.

After listening to prosecution and defence counsel,  Justice Abubakar convicted and sentenced Tamaraudeinyefa Brakekebebe to one year imprisonment or to pay N500,000.00 (Five  Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. In addition, he forfeited the sum of  N102,750,246.00 (One Hundred and Two Million, Seven Hundred and Fifty Thousand, Two Hundred and Forty Six Naira), found in his Zenith Bank Account No: 2650121856 and the sum of N64,762,169.00 (Sixty Four Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty Two Thousand, One Hundred and Sixty Nine Naira) to the federal government.

Godday Brakekebebe was convicted and sentenced to three years imprisonment or to pay N500,000.00 (Five  Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. In addition, he forfeited the sum of N56, 633,246 (Fifty-six Million, Six Hundred and Thirty-three Thousand, Two Hundred and Forty-six Naira) found in his Zenith Bank Account No: 4068151050 and another sum of N200,929.00 (Two Hundred Thousand, Nine Hundred and Twenty-nine Naira ), found in his Access Bank account No: 1462517972 to the federal government.

Asagh was convicted and sentenced to one year imprisonment or to pay N1,500,000,00 (One Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. In addition, he forfeited his Century Crip Inn Hotel, situated at No: 41 Adekaa Yaji Street, Gboko North LGA, Benue State and registered as plot 5352 in Gboko Land Registry and a Mercedes-Benz E350 4Matic with Chassis No: WDDHFBQAA121814 and Registration No: ABJ 367 CY to the federal government.

Elijah bagged one year imprisonment or to pay N500,000.00 ( Five Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. In addition, he is to restitute the sum of N10million to his victim through the EFCC Recovery Account and forfeit a Mercedes-Benz GLE with chassis No:4J6D5H876A44065 and Registration No ABJ 797 AL to the federal government.

Akindele was convicted and sentenced to two years imprisonment or to pay N100,000.00 ( One Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. In addition, he is to restitute the sum of N1,645,000.00 (One Million, Six Hundred and Forty-five Thousand Naira) to his victim.

Ayanger was convicted and sentenced to one year imprisonment or to pay N100,000.00( One Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. In addition, he is to restitute the sum of N500,000.00 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira) to his victim, while James was convicted and sentenced to three years imprisonment or to pay N500,000.00 ( Five Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. In addition, he forfeited the sum of N8,050,124.00 (Eight Million and Fifty Thousand, One Hundred and Twenty-four Naira) found in his Zenith Bank Account No: 4256815018 and as well as $4977 ( Four Thousand, Nine Hundred and Seventy-seven US Dollars) USD in his wallet account to the federal government.

The road to their ill-fate began when operatives of the Special Task Force (STF) of the Makurdi Zonal Directorate of the EFCC followed credible intelligence on their involvements in fraudulent criminal activities and arrested them in their hideouts.

Dele Oyewale

Head, Media & Publicity

February 13, 2025

Alleged N12.3b Fraud: Otudeko to Know Fate on Application Challenging Jurisdiction of Court, March 17

Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke of the Federal High Court, sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Thursday, February 13, 2025 adjourned till March 17, 2025 for ruling on the application filed by Oba Otudeko, Chairman of Honeywell Group, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the multiple fraud charges filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commision, EFCC.

Otudeko was to be arraigned alongside a former Managing Director of First Bank Plc, Olabisi Onasanya; a former board member of Honeywell, Soji Akintayo and a firm, Anchorage Leisure Limited on a 13-count charge, bordering on obtaining by false pretence to the tune of N12.3 billion, which the defendants seek to evade with preliminary objections, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to try them.

At today’s proceeding, prosecuting counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, informed the court that the prosecution had complied with the court’s directive to serve the defence with the charges and proof of evidence.

“The matter was adjourned till today for arraignment, but before the adjournment on January 20, the court had directed the prosecution to serve by substituted means the charges and proof of evidence on the defence and we served accordingly and we have affidavit to prove,” he said.

Otudeko’s counsel, Wole Olanipekun, SAN, however, notified the court of a fresh application, from his client, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to hear the case, served on the prosecution on January 29, 2025 and requested for a hearing date.

Counsel for the third defendant, Kehinde Ogunwumiju, SAN, similarly, informed the court that on February 10, 2025, he filed an application challenging the jurisdiction of the court which he said, has been served on the prosecution. The same application was also filed by counsel for the fourth defendant, A. Adedeji, SAN and served on the prosecution.

Confirming the development, prosecution counsel argued that hearing on the applications cannot go on due to the absence of Otudeko, the first defendant in court. “Few minutes ago, we received the first defendant’s affidavit for the record confirming that he travelled out of the country for medical reasons. I also confirm that I was served with a harvest of motions. I confirm receipt of the motion on notice from the first, third, and fourth defendants all challenging the court’s jurisdiction. They also asked the court to stay arraignment and also for outright acquittal and also that the court should not just quash the charge but dispense the appearance of defendants pending the arraignment of the defendant. For the absence of the first defendant, we may not be able to take the plea. We want an undertaking from the first defendant to know when he can come, so that we can take the arraignment,” he said.

Counsel for the third defendant, however, urged the court to proceed with the hearing of the application arguing that the absence of the first defendant is immaterial to the hearing of the application.

“The usual thing is to proceed with the application, however the prosecution said they cannot proceed because of the absence of the first defendant. The authorities support that an application can be heard even in the absence of the defendant. Jurisdiction is very rife and the law is clear, arraignment before an application will be prejudicial to the case,” he said. His submissions were adopted by counsel for the fourth defendant.

Prosecution counsel in his response, noted that the application of the first, third and fourth defendants urging the court to hear and determine the matter of jurisdiction and sundry prayers contained were untenable and urged the court to discountenance them.

“It appears to me that we are gradually in this case repeating the issue that occurred late last year. I refer the court to the Appeal Court’s decision on the case of Yahaya Bello, appeal no CA/ABJ/CR/534, the provision of 396(2) of ACJA 2015 reproduced above is very clear to the effect that any preliminary objection to the validity of the charge can only be heard after the plea has been taken. Asking the court to hear and determine a preliminary objection while the first defendant is in the UK with nothing to say than that he is on admission is injustice. It is unfair to him for us to be shaving his hair while he is in a mansion in the UK. I urge your lordship to bind yourself with the decision of Court of Appeal that I just cited,” he said.

Oyedepo further argued that: “The approach by the defence is taking is taking us back to Egypt where we have left. The application is incurably defective. It is dead on arrival. I should not dignify an illegality. The law says you can’t raise it. I urge the court to adjourn for arraignment and then after the plea of the defendant, objections can be raised. Except there is amendment to Section 396 of ACJA, I urge your lordship not to accede to the request of the defence. Don’t give judicial blessings to the implied conduct of the defendant to the effect that I stay in the house and my lawyer will deal with it. Ask him to come.

“No private citizen whether corporate or entity has the requisite power to condone criminal allegations or compound an offence. It cannot be said that there is no prima facie case. The provision of 396(2) divests my lord of the requisite power to hear an application challenging the jurisdiction of the court or charge before the plea is taken. Those prayers cannot be entertained because the law says so.”

He specifically requested that the defendant be present in court at the next sitting.

After listening to the arguments, Justice Aneke adjourned till March 17, 2025, for ruling on the applications.

Dele Oyewale

Head, Media & Publicity

February 13, 2025

February 15, 2025

Press Statement

PDP Mourns Nationalist Afenifere Leader Chief Ayo Adebanjo

…Says His Death is a National Tragedy

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is deeply saddened over the death of elder statesman, nationalist and a foremost advocate of democracy in Nigeria, the leader of Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, describing it as a national tragedy.

Chief Adebanjo was a fearless lawyer, forthright and principled politician, uncompromising democrat and leading national light who stood for the people’s rights in the entrenchment of democratic tenets of adherence to the Rule of Law, good governance, transparency, accountability, social welfare, justice, equity, fairness and mutual respect in our national life.

He was a national Icon, a torchbearer, leading epitome of truth and passionate advocate of true federalism, restructuring and devolution of powers which are the only workable templates of effective governance, political stability and more peaceful co-existence in a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and multi-religious society such as Nigeria.

Chief Adebanjo was an audacious and outspoken patriot who remained steadfast to his commitment towards the unity, stability and development of our nation by always pointing to the truth, proffered practical solutions for knotty national issues and served as a source of inspiration, vision and direction especially for the contemporary generation of leaders.

Through the years, as one of the fighters for our nation’s independence, staunch member of the then Zikist Movement and later the Organizing Secretary of the Action Group (AG); a prominent figure in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and leader of Afenifere, Chief Adebanjo distinguished himself as a true nationalist who put the interest of the nation and wellbeing of Nigerians above every other consideration.

His death at this critical time is therefore a huge blow to our nation as he left the stage when his wealth of experience, wisdom and direction are needed the most.

Though we mourn, we find solace in the fact that Chief Adebanjo lived an accomplished life and bequeathed innumerable legacies that will remain invaluable for generations to come.

The PDP deeply commiserates with the Adebanjo family, the Afenifere family, the Government and people of Ogun State and all lovers of democracy all over the world and prays to God to grant all the fortitude to bear this great tragedy.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba

National Publicity Secretary

There are  no “Sacred Cows” in Governor Okpebholo’s  Administration- Ohonbamu

Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu has reiterated that the State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo is a man of integrity, with moral principles who will not spare any one found wanting in his administration from any senatorial district of the state

According to the Commissioner in a statement in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo, popularly called Akpakomiza is in a hurry to make Edo the envy of other states and will not tolerate any obstacles on his path to transform the state

“It was therefore not surprising to political pundits when the governor took the action against the suspended Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Hon. Samson Osagie and The Chairman of Edo State Local Government Service Commission, Hon Damian Lawani over alleged financial infractions.

“The decision to suspend them can be applied to everyone irrespective of who they are and where they come from.

“They have been suspended to allow the panel to do their work and if they are not culpable they will return to their office.

“For the information of Edo People and the general public,  the Governor is a no nonsense leader who is no respecter of anybody who runs foul of the law and it should be clarified that he is not against anybody or any particular senatorial district in the state,” the Commissioner noted.

While stating that the governor will take action against anybody even if the culprit is his brother, relation, or political party loyalist, Hon Ohonbamu maintained that he can state categorically that the governor believes in conventional means of resolving issues, not self help, because he will not allow any wrong doing to go unpunished.

“From the action taken on the suspended government appointees, the governor is sending the message to all government appointees to be transparent, shun corruption, be committed to the work towards developing the state and any one that cannot cope should leave the office.

“The governor believes that any government appointee is into an enterprise of honorable dangerous consequences, therefore they should not fall foul of the oath of their office because the appointment goes with responsibilities,” he added.

The Commissioner disclosed that In the last one hundred days in office, the governor has taken some milestone decisions to change the narratives which has placed the state on a new Pedestal for Socio- economic growth.

According to him, “the appointment of a retired Commissioner of Police to head the Edo security Network has paved the way for improved and organized security outfit in the state,unlike in the past when it was not regulated and the ban on market unions is stabilizing the prices of food stuffs.

“The governor saw the need for the Ramat Park fly over to reinvent Commerce and businesses to boom beyond the ease of vehicular movement in that area. There is no doubt that the state has experienced a lot of developmental strides so far.”

OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR, BAYELSA STATE

PRESS RELEASE

Diri Renders Scorecard At Fifth Anniversary Celebration

*Says 60mw Gas Turbines Expected In Two Months

*VP, Jonathan, Wife, Plateau Gov, Other Prominent Guests In Attendance

The fifth anniversary thanksgiving service of the Senator Douye Diri administration in Bayelsa State, on Thursday, offered a platform for the governor to render his stewardship.

The well-attended event had prominent Nigerians, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, former President Goodluck Jonathan, his wife, Dame Patience, Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Muftwang, National Assembly members among others in attendance.

The thanksgiving service was held at the Ecumenical Centre, Igbogene, Yenagoa, and had renowned Ghanaian preacher, Dr. Otabil Mensah, as the guest speaker.

Governor Diri, in his remarks, said Bayelsa was witnessing a transformation with the completion of several impactful projects as well as ongoing and newly-awarded projects.

He listed some to include the three big-ticket senatorial roads, particularly the Bayelsa Central road, which he said would get to Oporoma, headquarters of the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, and inaugurated this year.

He also stated that with the support of the federal government, the second phase of the Nembe-Brass road Bayelsa East would come on stream while the ongoing first phase would be 90 per cent completed by the end of this year.

Diri noted that because of the abundant sporting talents in the state, his administration will constructing a 25,000-seat FIFA-standard stadium, which he said will be flagged off by Dr. Jonathan on Monday.

Among others, the Bayelsa governor stated that the administration was addressing the issue of civil servants office accommodation by commencing the building of an iconic nine-storey secretariat complex. He disclosed that the contractor, Megastar Limited, had already been paid 50 per cent of the project cost.

In education, Diri said there had been a shift in paradigm to science and technical education and the government had built and equipped five science and technical colleges across the state. He directed the Commissioner for Education to ensure that the two local government areas yet to be covered were completed this year.

On epileptic power supply in the state, the Bayelsa helmsman said it will be a thing of the past when the 60mw gas turbines worth $60 million arrive the state.

His words: “All of these projects run into billions of naira. Of course, the one that will make all of us happier and affects everyone is electricity.

“We have agreed with a private company that is supplying us 60mw of gas turbines, big enough to serve not only Yenagoa but the whole of Bayelsa State.

“We are expecting the gas turbines to arrive Nigeria in the next two months and I can promise you without looking back that by the end of this year, we will have 24 hours independent power supply.”

In his goodwill message, Vice President Kashim Shettima, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Economic Matters, Dr. Tope Fasua, commended Bayelsa State’s significant development and economic progress.

He said the state was diversifying beyond crude oil and gas, which include agriculture, fishery and sports, that are crucial to the state’s prosperity.

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He noted that the commencement of commercial flights at the Bayelsa International Airport was a significant infrastructural development.

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‎The Vice President also applauded Diri for his reforms, including the announcement of a minimum wage of N80,000 for state workers.

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‎He acknowledged the state’s impressive economic statistics with Bayelsa having the ninth highest GDP in Nigeria and the second highest GDP per capital after Lagos State.

In a sermon titled: “Wisdom,” Dr. Otabil Mensah said all over the world, the most deprived, underdeveloped nations were in Africa but it was still the most endowed and spiritually-blessed continent.

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‎Dr. Mensah criticised Africans that pray mostly against fellow humans, saying true wisdom does not destroy but build.

He urged Africans to use wisdom to transform the immense wealth God had deposited in the land.

Other dignitaries at the service were Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Deputy Governor of Delta State, Monday Onyeme, former Military Governor of old Rivers State, King Alfred Diete-Spiff, and another former Rivers Governor. Chief Rufus Ada-George.

Others were two former Military Administrators of Bayelsa State, Navy Captain Caleb Olubolade (Rtd) and Colonel Edor Obi (Rtd) as well as former Acting Governor Werinipere Seibarugu and former Deputy Governor Peremobowei Ebebi.

Also present were Senators Sunday Katung, Konbowei Benson, and Benson Agadaga as well as Bayelsa House of Reps members – Dr. Fred Agbedi, Marie Ebikake, Rodney Ambaiowei, and Oforji Oboku.

Also in attendance were Speaker of the Bayelsa House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere, National Chairman of Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Dr. Boladei Igali, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, chairman, Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, King Bubaraye Dakolo, the Amanyanabo of Nembe Kingdom, King Edmond Daukoru, NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku and other top government functionaries.

Daniel Alabrah

Chief Press Secretary

Thursday, February 13, 2025

‘TINUBU’S REFORMS YIELDING FRUITS, RESTORING STABILITY’ — S’WEST GOVS, FLOAT REGIONAL SECURITY SURVEILLANCE OUTFIT TO ADDRESS ISWAP THREATS, FOOD INFLATION MONITORING TEAM

An appraisal of the reforms being undertaken by the Federal Government to reposition the country has earned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a vote of confidence.

The six Governors in the South West part of Nigeria gave the President a pat on the back, noting that the country had returned to the path of economic stability as a result of the outcome of the economic reforms.

This is part of the 11-point communique issued after the South West Governors’ Forum met in Lagos on Thursday.

The meeting, presided over by the Forum’s chairman, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was held at the State House in Alausa, Ikeja and lasted for more than four hours.

In attendance were Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebaniji (Ekiti), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) and Ademola Adeleke (Osun).

Besides, the South West Governors resolved to establish a Joint Surveillance and Monitoring Team to coordinate security operations across the region.

The move, they said, was a direct response to the emerging threats of Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) and other criminal groups whose activities are inimical to the peace and stability of the Southwest.

Sanwo-Olu, while reading the communique, said the Governors unanimously passed a confidence vote on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the economic stability and improvements recorded across the nation, particularly in the sustained supply and distribution of petroleum products and the stabilisation of the exchange rate.

The Forum applauded the Tinubu-led administration for the successful implementation of the student loan scheme through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), pointing out that the scheme had benefited students in tertiary institutions.

Sanwo-Olu said: “The Forum commends President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the economic stability and improvements recorded across the nation, particularly in the sustained supply and distribution of petroleum products and the stabilisation of the exchange rate. The Forum urges citizens to continue supporting the President’s efforts to strengthen the economy and improve the overall well-being of Nigerians.

“We also applaud the Federal Government for the successful implementation of the Student Loan Scheme under the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which has benefited South West students in tertiary institutions. It encourages all eligible students in the region to take full advantage of this initiative to access higher education, vocational training, and skills acquisition programmes.”

The Forum commended the member States for regional efforts to foster peace and security, but called for more vigilance to proactively address the potential threat posed by subversive activities of criminal groups bent on causing instability in the region.

Sanwo-Olu said the Forum remained committed to taking necessary measures to counter any form of threats that could threaten peace in the region.

The communique reads in part: “The Forum commends the South West Governors for maintaining relative peace and security in the region, particularly during the recent festive period. It calls on all States to continue fostering peaceful coexistence among member States. Acknowledging the threat posed by ISWAP activities in parts of the South West, the Forum strongly condemns any threat to the region’s security. It encourages enhanced collaboration between the Nigeria Police Force and local security outfits, urging them to remain vigilant. The Forum also commits to taking necessary actions to counter these threats.

“The Forum agreed to establish a Joint Surveillance and Monitoring Team, which will oversee and coordinate security across the region. As part of the resolution, the Forum has committed to deploy advanced technology, including area surveillance system that will enhance security operations. The Governors resolved that our Special Advisers on Security will collaborate on intelligence gathering and share valuable intelligence to State security agencies, local security networks, and federal law enforcement authorities operating within the South West.”

The South West Governors also discussed measures to enhance food adequacy and curbing activities disrupting the food supplies within the region.

The Forum frowned at unscrupulous practices of middlemen in the food supply chain, which, they said, were responsible for inflated food prices and artificial scarcity.

The Forum agreed to implement the State Food Inflation Joint Monitoring Team to collectively address sabotage and other related issues leading to arbitrary increase in food prices.

Sanwo-Olu said: “The Forum expresses concern over the activities of unscrupulous middlemen who deliberately inflate prices of goods and commodities in South West markets. It has, therefore, agreed to establish a State Food Inflation Joint Monitoring Team and also the establishment of Aggregation Centre and Food Hubs to foster inter-state collaboration and mitigate food inflation.”

The Governors hailed the Federal Government and the Senate for the creation of South West Development Commission (SWDC); the Forum unanimously chose Cocoa House in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, as operational headquarters of the Commission.

They expressed their confidence in the efforts of Odu’a Investment Company Limited in efficiently managing joint assets of the South West region over the past five years.

While applauding the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission for its improved performance over the past 12 months, the Forum urged the Commission to strengthen its working relationship with the region’s Commissioners for Agriculture on industrialisation and infrastructural development across the region.

SOUTH-WEST GOVERNORS STORM LAGOS FOR ZONAL MEETING

• Sanwo-Olu hosts colleagues, food security, zonal integration, SWDC, security top agenda

The six South-West governors have arrived at Lagos House, Ikeja, for a crucial zonal meeting to discuss the growth and development of the region.

The South-West Governors Forum meeting being hosted by its Chairman and Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is attended by Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebaniji (Ekiti), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) and Ademola Adeleke (Osun).

The visitors who started arriving at Lagos House, Ikeja, from 10:55 am with Governor Makinde being the first to arrive, were received by Governor Sanwo-Olu, his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Barr. (Mrs.) Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin and the Chief of Staff, Mr. Tayo Ayinde.

The closed-door meeting, which started at 12:15pm after the arrival of all the governors, will focus on common interests and key regional issues, which will include agriculture, food security, economic collaboration, security, and the South-West Development Commission.

Today’s meeting is a follow-up to a similar one held in Lagos on June 10, 2024, where Governor Sanwo-Olu was unanimously appointed as Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum.

Since its last meeting, the forum under the leadership of Governor Sanwo-Olu had prioritised policies aimed at strengthening regional development in the South-West zone.

February 13, 2025

Press Statement

Edo 10-member Caretaker Committee Still in Charge of State Chapter – PDP

…Party Yet to Elect New Exco

The attention of the national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been drawn to activities of certain individuals parading themselves as the Executives of the Edo State Chapter of the PDP, illegally arrogating offices to themselves, issuing unauthorized directives, attempting to convene meetings  and engaging in other actions that are inimical to the stability of our Party in Edo State.

The PDP states in clear terms that the Edo State Chapter is presently being run by a 10-member Caretaker Committee with Dr. Tony Aziegbemi as Chairman and Hon Henry Duke Tenebe as Secretary.

The Caretaker Committee was duly appointed by the National Working Committee (NWC) pursuant to Section 29 (2)(b) of the PDP Constitution to pilot the affairs of the Edo State Chapter following the expiration of the State Executive and pending the election of a new State executive.

For the avoidance of doubt members of the Edo State Caretaker Committee are as follows:

1. Dr. Tony Aziegbemi – Chairman
2. Hon. Harrison Omagbon – Member
3. Hon. Fidel Igenegbale – Member
4. Hon. Chris Nehikhare – Member
5. Tony Anenih Jnr. – Member
6. Arch. Bishop Anthony Okosun – Member
7. Hon. Segun Saiki – Member
8. Adezat Kuburat Ibrahim – Member
9. Augustine Edosomwan – Member
10. Hon. Henry Duke Tenebe – Secretary

The PDP cautions that any other persons illegally parading themselves as the PDP Executive in Edo State will be treated as impostors as the Party has not elected a new Exco for the Edo State Chapter.

Moreover the Party will not hesitate to take decisive disciplinary action against any person acting in defiance of the clear provisions of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017).

The PDP urges all leaders, critical stakeholders, teeming member and supporters of the PDP in Edo State to remain united, at alert and continue to work with the Caretaker Committee in the overall interest of the Party and the people.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba

National Publicity Secretary

SOUTH-WEST GOVERNORS STORM LAGOS FOR ZONAL MEETING

• Sanwo-Olu hosts colleagues, food security, zonal integration, SWDC, security top agenda

The six South-West governors have arrived at Lagos House, Ikeja, for a crucial zonal meeting to discuss the growth and development of the region.

The South-West Governors Forum meeting being hosted by its Chairman and Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is attended by Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebaniji (Ekiti), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) and Ademola Adeleke (Osun).

The visitors who started arriving at Lagos House, Ikeja, from 10:55 am with Governor Makinde being the first to arrive, were received by Governor Sanwo-Olu, his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Barr. (Mrs.) Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin and the Chief of Staff, Mr. Tayo Ayinde.

The closed-door meeting, which started at 12:15pm after the arrival of all the governors, will focus on common interests and key regional issues, which will include agriculture, food security, economic collaboration, security, and the South-West Development Commission.

Today’s meeting is a follow-up to a similar one held in Lagos on June 10, 2024, where Governor Sanwo-Olu was unanimously appointed as Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum.

Since its last meeting, the forum under the leadership of Governor Sanwo-Olu had prioritised policies aimed at strengthening regional development in the South-West zone.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

SPECIAL ADVISER – MEDIA AND PUBLICITY

13 FEBRUARY 2025

SOUTH-WEST GOVERNORS STORM LAGOS FOR ZONAL MEETING

•Sanwo-Olu hosts colleagues, food security, zonal integration, SWDC, security top agenda

The six South-West governors have arrived at Lagos House, Ikeja, for a crucial zonal meeting to discuss the growth and development of the region.

The South-West Governors Forum meeting being hosted by its Chairman and Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is attended by Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebaniji (Ekiti), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) and Ademola Adeleke (Osun).

The visitors who started arriving at Lagos House, Ikeja, from 10:55 am with Governor Makinde being the first to arrive, were received by Governor Sanwo-Olu, his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Barr. (Mrs.) Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin and the Chief of Staff, Mr. Tayo Ayinde. 

The closed-door meeting, which started at 12:15pm after the arrival of all the governors, will focus on common interests and key regional issues, which will include agriculture, food security, economic collaboration, security, and the South-West Development Commission.

Today’s meeting is a follow-up to a similar one held in Lagos on June 10, 2024, where Governor Sanwo-Olu was unanimously appointed as Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum.

Since its last meeting, the forum under the leadership of Governor Sanwo-Olu had prioritised policies aimed at strengthening regional development in the South-West zone.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

SPECIAL ADVISER – MEDIA AND PUBLICITY

13 FEBRUARY 2025

Ribadu slams Canadian Embassy for denying Defence Chief, others visa

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has strongly criticized the Canadian embassy for denying Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Christopher Musa and other senior military officers visas for an official engagement.

Speaking in Abuja on Thursday at the maiden annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS), Ribadu expressed his displeasure, stating that Canada “can go to hell.”

The CDS had earlier shared his frustration over the incident, revealing that he and his team were invited to an event honoring war veterans in Canada but were denied visas.

In his words according to TheCable, “Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada. There’s an event to honour our veterans, those that were injured during battles, and we were meant to be there,” Musa said.

“We were invited with our team. Half has gone and half has been denied. It’s very disappointing. This is a clear reminder that we must stand strong as a nation and should no longer be taken for granted.”

Reacting to the situation, Ribadu did not hold back his criticism, calling the visa denial an act of disrespect.

“Thank you for the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell,” Ribadu declared.

“Even though it’s painful and disrespectful, we are peaceful and strong. I agree with you—it is time to fix our country. Yet, this is another reason we must work hard to make Nigeria work.”

He also commended the CDS for his leadership in combating insecurity, emphasizing that all security agencies are now working together across various regions of the country.

LP FIELDING PETER OBI AGAINST TINUBU IN 2027, SAYS ARABAMBI

The Labour Party (LP)’s National Publicity Secretary said Tinubu would not have a smooth sail in the next general polls.

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Labour Party (LP)’s National Publicity Secretary, Abayomi Arabambi, said President Bola Tinubu won’t have a smooth sail.

“Tinubu is not just going to have it very easy in 2027, we are coming back with that Peter Obi to them so that they will know we are very serious,” Arabambi said on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme.

Obi was LP’s presidential candidate in 2023 but lost to Tinubu, the then-candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He came third in the polls, trailing former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Arabambi faulted actor-turned-politician, Kenneth Okonkwo, over his decision to dump the party.

He described Okonkwo’s exit as a relief for the party as it plans to unseat the present administration come 2027.

He doubted Okonkwo’s loyalty to the LP, accusing him of working for President Tinubu and the ruling APC.

“And we wish Kenneth Okonkwo well, his resignation is good riddance to bad rubbish. He should not speak about the Labour Party anymore,” Arabambi stated.

“There is no leadership crisis in the Labour Party. Labour Party is not going into extinction. It is just a figment of the imaginations of most of our detractors,” he added.

TWO DRUG KINGPINS EXCRETE 125 WRAPS OF HEROIN AT LAGOS, PORT HARCOURT AIRPORTS 

– As NDLEA intercepts Colorado, Loud, Tramadol consignments in gas cylinder, others in Kano, Kogi; seizes Canada-bound opioids

Attempts by two drug kingpins to smuggle into Nigeria consignments of heroin through the Port Harcourt International Airport and the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, have been foiled by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA.

One of the kingpins who uses dual identities to aid his cross border movements, has a Nigerian passport with his original name: Onyekwonike Elochuckwu Sylvanus, 30, and that of Sierra Leone with a different name: Kargbo Mohamed Foday. He was intercepted by NDLEA officers with his Sierra Leonean passport on Sunday 2nd February 2025 at the Port Harcourt airport, Rivers state during the inward clearance of passengers on Qatar Airways flight from Doha through Abuja to Port Harcourt.

He was subsequently taken for body scan which confirmed he ingested illicit drugs and thereafter placed under excretion observation during which he expelled a total of 62 wraps of heroin in five excretions, weighing 1.348 kilograms.

Investigation reveals Onyekwonike Elochuckwu Sylvanus (alias Kargbo Mohamed Foday) alternates his two identities for different drug trafficking missions between Thailand, Pakistan, Iran and West African countries. He claimed to have gone full time into the illicit drug trade in 2017 when his clothing and shoe business went down.

The second kingpin, James Herbert Chinoso, 48, was arrested by NDLEA operatives at the Lagos airport on Saturday 1st February upon his arrival from Madagascar via Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on an Ethiopian Airlines flight. After a body scan confirmed illicit drug in his system, he was placed under excretion observation during which he egested 63 wraps of heroin with a total weight of 909 grams.

Chinoso had left Lagos to Madagascar on 26th January 2025 and returned via Addis Ababa after spending a week. He claimed to have gone into the criminal trade after his phone accessories business in Liberia collapsed.

Two parcels of 2.82 kilograms of Loud, a synthetic strain of cannabis imported from the United States with Lagos as destination were equally intercepted by NDLEA operatives of the Directorate of Operations and General Investigation, DOGI, at a courier firm in Lagos on Thursday 6th February. In another interdiction operation same day but in a different logistics company in Lagos, anti-narcotics officers intercepted 80 ampoules of pentazocine injection 225grams concealed in cartons heading to Canada.

In Kano, NDLEA operatives on Monday 3rd February arrested the duo of Usaini Salisu and Yahaya Mu’azu, both 23 years old, at Gadar Tamburawa along Zaria road, where 15,396 pills of tramadol were recovered from a gas cylinder used to conceal the consignment. In another operation same day, operatives nabbed a female suspect, Choima  Okeke, 35, with 27 blocks of skunk, a strain of cannabis weighing 15kg, at Sabon Gari area of Kano.

A consignment of 12,800 pills of tramadol 250mg going to Shuwarin in Jigawa state, was intercepted by NDLEA officers on patrol along Kabba-Obajana highway in Kogi state on Saturday 8th February with a suspect, Salisu Basiru, 33, arrested. Similarly, no fewer than 65 parcels of Colorado, a strong synthetic strain of cannabis with a total weight of 1.600kg also heading to Jigawa state, were recovered from another suspect, Rufai Hassan, 32 at the same check point same day.

With the same vigour, Commands and formations of the Agency across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, sensitization activities to schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week. These include: WADA enlightenment lecture to students and staff of Saint Secondary School, Abakaliki, Ebonyi; Taangayar Malam Abubakar Bichi, an Almajiri school, Bichi, Kano; Federal Government Girls College, Calabar, Cross River; College of Nursing and Science, Birnin Kebbi; and Meiran Community Junior Secondary School, Abule Egba, Lagos state among others.

While commending the officers and men of MMIA, PHIA, DOGI, Kano and Kogi Commands of the Agency for the arrests and seizures, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) stated that their operational successes and those of their compatriots across the country especially their balanced approach to drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts are well appreciated.

Femi Babafemi

Director, Media & Advocacy

NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja

Sunday 9th February 2025

NDLEA declares 4 members of ‘Barryshine’ drug cartel wanted

– Over cocaine shipments to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, others

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has declared four associates of Lagos drug kingpin, Alhaji Suleiman Aremu Ganiu (a.k.a Barryshine, Ejeoto) wanted for their involvement in multiple drug trafficking activities for which ‘Barryshine’ is currently facing criminal charges at a Federal High Court in Lagos.

The decision to declare the suspects wanted followed an order granted to the NDLEA by Honourable Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court in Lagos. Those wanted for their involvement in multiple drug trafficking activities include: Olarenwaju Ramon Abdulai (a.k.a Alhaji Loyingbo); Oluwafemi Akande Abidoye (a.k.a Igbono, Baba Eje, Ade Iwaya, Femi Iwaya); Olumuyiwa Olufemi Ilori (a.k.a Murphy) and Alate Kafy Bakare Bukki of Kaffy Travels.

The court in its ruling on Tuesday 28th January 2025 following the reliefs sought by NDLEA in charge no: FHC/L/731C/2024 ordered as follows:

“That an order of this Honourable Court declaring one Olarenwaju Ramon Abdulai a.k.a ‘Alhaji Loyingbo’, wanted by a public notice with their photographs conspicuously displayed, who are presently at large for their involvement in multiple drug trafficking activities with Suleiman Aremu a.k.a ‘Barryshine’, ‘Ejeoto’ is hereby granted.

“That an Order declaring one Oluwafemi Akande Abidoye a.k.a ‘Igbono’, ‘Baba Eje’, Iwaya’, ‘Femi Iwaya’, wanted by a public notice with their photographs conspicuously displayed, who are presently at large for their involvement in multiple drug trafficking activities with Suleiman Aremu Ganiu a.k.a ‘Barryshine’, ‘Ejeoto’ is hereby granted.

“That an Order declaring one Olumuyiwa Olufemi Ilori a.k.a ‘Murphy’, wanted by a public notice with his photograph conspicuously displayed, who is presently at large for his involvement in multiple drug trafficking activities with Suleiman Aremu Ganiu a.k.a ‘Barryshine’, ‘Ejeoto’ is hereby granted.

“That an Order declaring one Alate Kafy Zakare Bukki of Kaffy Travels wanted by a public notice with her photograph conspicuously displayed, who is presently at large for her involvement in the drug trafficking activities with Suleiman Aremu Ganiu a.k.a ‘Barryshine’, ‘Ejeoto’ is hereby granted.”

The leader of the gang, Suleiman Ganiu Aremu (a.k.a Barryshine) was arrested on 26th August 2024 two years after coming under the radar of the anti-narcotics Agency. Suleiman who is the Managing Director/CEO of Barryshine Suleiman Nigeria Ltd came under the Agency’s watchlist over his alleged role in four foiled attempts to export cocaine to Saudi Arabia and Qatar through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA Ikeja Lagos between 2022 and 2024.

Many of his mules have since been arrested by NDLEA, prosecuted and convicted. He is currently facing multiple criminal charges at a Federal High Court in Lagos.

Members of the public with any information on the whereabouts of the four wanted suspects are encouraged to contact the nearest NDLEA Command, call our toll free helpline: 080010203040 or send direct messages to any of our social media accounts: @ndlea_nigeria on Instagram, X, Tiktok and @ndlea01 on Facebook or @ndleatv on Youtube.

Femi Babafemi

Director, Media and Advocacy

NDLEA Headquarters Abuja

Monday 10th February 2025

Nok Varsity Now Federal University Of Applied Sciences As President Tinubu Orders Immediate Takeover

*Directs education minister to capture institution in 2025 budget for September take-off*

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the Federal Government to take over Nok University, Kachia, Kaduna State, and transform it into a Federal University.

Following the President’s directive which is coming after a Federal High Court in Abuja had ordered the final forfeiture of the privately-owned NOK University to the Federal Government, the private institution is now named Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna State in fulfillment of a promise made to the people of Southern Kaduna.

Speaking during the formal handover of the institution’s property and assets to the Federal Government by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) at the Presidential Villa, Vice President Kashim Shettima said the event signifies the administration’s commitment to inclusivity and national development.

He said, “This is a great day for the country and for Kaduna State. The greater credit should go to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for driving the process and making it the first item on the agenda of the Federal Executive Council.

“General Martin Luther Agwai (rtd) quoted Martin Luther King Jr. as saying, ‘People fail to get along because they fear each other; they fear each other because they don’t know each other; they don’t know each other because they have not communicated with each other.’ I dare to add another quote by the same Martin Luther King Jr. where he said: ‘We must either learn to live together as brothers, or we are going to die together as fools.’

“We must either learn to live together as brothers, or we are going to die together as fools.”

The Vice President also paid tribute to those instrumental in the transition process, including General Martin Luther Agwai (rtd), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Justice Kumai Bayang Akaahs, and Senator Sunday Marshall.

“I want to particularly appreciate my Lord, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, who has been unwavering in his commitment to fostering peace and progress in this region. The engagements we had with General Agwai, Justice Akaahs, and Senator Marshall were all geared towards making this a reality. Today, we celebrate the outcome of those efforts,” he said.

Assuring of the immediate commencement of the institution’s operations, VP Shettima said, “The President has already directed the Minister of Education to ensure that the university is captured in the 2025 budget so that by September, it can admit its first set of students.”

Beyond education, VP Shettima reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development in Southern Kaduna, particularly in road construction.

“The governor is already making significant progress in reconstructing key roads in the region. However, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has promised to complete the efforts of the governor by awarding contracts for the construction of some of the major roads in the region,” he added.

On his part, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, thanked President Tinubu for the realisation of the dream to establish the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Southern Kaduna, describing the signing ceremony and handover of property for the takeoff of the institution as a great day for the people of the state and Nigerians at large.

Governor Sani reserved special commendations for Vice President Shettima, whom he described as a strong pillar of support for his administration and the people of Kaduna, particularly for the actualisation of the Federal University of Applied Sciences project.

He said the peaceful coexistence enjoyed across Kaduna and environs, and the inclusion of all interests in the state is entrenched as a deliberate policy of his administration, assuring that “we will continue to run Kaduna in an inclusive manner where the interest of all are taken into consideration”.

Also speaking, the Senator representing Kaduna South senatorial district, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung thanked President Tinubu for assenting to the establishment of the institution, saying “the positive impact of the decision will benefit millions in our region, the country and the world for generations to come.”

Senator Katung who presented the bill for the establishment of the university in the Senate said, “We are excited that our vision for a world-class institution of higher learning in Southern Kaduna has been recognised and endorsed. We are eager to embark on this journey that has eluded us for decades.

“This university will not only provide access to quality education but will also create jobs, stimulate local economic growth, and contribute to the social and cultural fabric of our community. This is the vision that Mr. President has set in motion today, and we look forward to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to bring it to life.”

On his part, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described the establishment of the university as a demonstration of President Tinubu’s dedication towards expanding the nation’s human capital and capacity development.

He said, “Today demonstrates another evidence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima’s benevolent belief in quickly expanding Nigeria’s human capacity development in the area of education, health and social welfare protection.”

For his part, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukayode, said that in pursuit of their mandate, the court had granted the institution a judgment for the final forfeiture of the entire assets of the university, comprising academic buildings, a water factory, an international hotel, and an event centre.

“We are here pursuant to the resolution of the Federal Executive Council on February 4, 2025, to hand over the property of the university for the use of the newly established Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia,” he added.

In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, said the day is “a very special day to say thank you to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the great honour done to the people of Southern Kaduna.”

According to him, the President has repeatedly shown love and commitment to the region and the country at large. “This is a Nigerian project, it is not only for the people of Kaduna; the University will enhance the capacity of all Nigerians. We are all excited; everybody in Kaduna State is excited about this great feat. This is an idea that will bring peace to the region,” he stated.

Also speaking, Gen. Martin Luther Agwai (rtd) said it is one of the greatest days of joy for some of them who have retired and from that geographical region of the country – Southern Kaduna.

He noted that the Southern Kaduna people had waited for a long time, and have eventually gotten the best with a science-based university that will uplift the value of life in that area.

Others present at the meeting included member representing Jema’a/Sanga Federal constituency, Hon. Daniel Amos; former Supreme Court Justice, Kumai Bayang Akaahs; former Chairman of the Kaduna State chapter of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. John Joseph Hayab; Chief Anthony Hassan; member representing Jema’a State Constituency Ali Kalat; Dr Abdulamalik Durunguwa; Charity Shekari; Deborah Usman; Andrew Yakubu among others.

*Stanley Nkwocha*

*Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications*

*(Office of The Vice President)*

*11th February, 2025*

President Tinubu Commends IFC’s in Lagos Free Zone

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for its continued confidence in Nigeria’s economy.

President Tinubu made the commendation following IFC’s $50 million equity investment in the Lagos Free Zone, a Tolaram initiative to support the development and expansion of Nigeria’s first deep-sea port-based, private special economic zone.

The President described the investment as a testament to the growing trust of global financial institutions in Nigeria’s economic direction under his administration.

He emphasised that such strategic partnerships reinforce the country’s position as a prime destination for foreign direct investment and industrial growth.

“The expansion of the Lagos Free Zone is critical to our vision of positioning Nigeria as the gateway for trade and investment in West Africa and across the continent. This investment by the IFC not only strengthens Nigeria’s industrial base but also demonstrates the growing confidence of international investors in our economic policies. With improved industrial and logistics infrastructure, we are creating an integrated ecosystem that will accelerate exports, attract more investment, and enhance our global competitiveness,” President Tinubu said.

The Lagos Free Zone, strategically integrated with the Lekki Deep Sea Port, is designed to ease import and export operations, strengthen Nigeria’s role in regional and global value chains, and create a more efficient business environment.

The IFC’s investment will support land development, industrial expansion, and logistics infrastructure within the 860-hectare zone, ensuring full integration into Nigeria’s broader economic diversification strategy.

The President also acknowledged Tolaram’s long-standing commitment to Nigeria’s economic development, noting that the group’s deepening investments—from industrial zones to consumer goods and manufacturing—following its acquisition of Guinness last year reflect Nigeria’s strong potential as an investment destination. He welcomed the company’s continued efforts to drive industrialisation, create jobs, and foster economic growth.

While appreciating the IFC’s investment, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts even larger, transformative investments across key sectors. He also highlighted the IFC’s growing partnership with Nigeria, including its $70 million support for power sector initiatives aimed at strengthening the country’s energy security.

“We value the IFC’s commitment to Nigeria’s economic progress and look forward to deeper engagements that will drive large-scale infrastructure projects, strengthen our industrial base, and create thousands of jobs for Nigerians,” the President added.

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President

(Information & Strategy)

February 12, 2025

Alleged N90.4m Fraud: Former NHIS Boss Knows Fate on Bail  Feb 27

Justice Chinyere E. Nwecheonwu of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Kuchiako, Kuje, Abuja, on Wednesday, 12 February 2025, adjourned till February 27 for ruling on the bail application of former Executive Secretary, National Health Insurance Scheme, Professor Usman Yusuf.

Yusuf was arraigned on a five-count bordering on embezzlement, conferring undue advantage, and fraud to the tune of N90, 439, 178.00( Ninety Million, Four Hundred and Thirty Nine thousand, One Hundred and Seventy Eight Naira only).

Arguing against the application for bail by the defendant, prosecution counsel, Francis Usani in a counter affidavit, informed the court that the offences alleged against the defendant impact on the general well-being of the common man in Nigeria, tarnishing also the image and reputation of the country as a whole and diminishes government’s efforts to sustain development in the country.

“The evidence elicited in the course of investigation against the defendant is overwhelming and can lead to the defendant being convicted by the court. I know for a fact that the applicant failed to comply with the administrative bail conditions granted him by the respondent to report regularly and bi-weekly to the respondent’s office while he was under investigation”, he said.

Usani further argued that the defendant if granted bail will abscond and will not be available to face his trial as the weight of the evidence against him was very strong and compelling.

“It took the respondent’s officers discreet surveillance and high powered intelligence to apprehend the defendant for the purpose of bringing him to court. The defendant has boasted publicly even while in the custody of the respondent that this case will go nowhere as he is highly and politically connected.

Usani further informed the court that the prosecution believed that the defendant is still highly connected and has tremendous influence at the NHIS to temper and influence most of the respondent’s witnesses that will come from the NHIS to testify before the court.

He further submitted that it was the duty of the defendant to “place cogent, sufficient and compelling facts before the court upon which the court would consider his application for bail.

“It is very clear that the affidavit’s evidence deposed to by Bashir Yusuf in support of the application for bail; that the defendant has not supplied materials to persuade this honourable court to grant his prayer, nor ask the respondent to show reason why bail should not be granted.”

Counsel to the defendant, O. I. Habeeb, SAN, in a motion on notice informed the court that the defence are praying for an order of the court to admit the defendant on bail pending his trial in the case on such terms and conditions as the court may deem fit to impose.

He also prayed for any further order the court may decide to make,  adding that the offences for which the defendant is charged are bailable offences and that he has satisfied all the necessary conditions for him to be admitted on bail on liberal terms.

Thereafter, Justice Nwecheonwu adjourned the matter for ruling on the bail application to February 27, 2025. The judge still held the order of remanding the defendant in Kuje Correctional Centre pending ruling.

Dele Oyewale

Head, Media & Publicity

February 12, 2025

*PRESS STATEMENT*

*Ex-PDP National Chairmen, Nwodo and Secondus Congratulate UdeOkoye, NWC,*

*…….. draws a roadmap for the party.*

Two former National Chairmen of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Dr Okwesilieze Nwodo and Prince Uche Secondus have congratulated the new substantive National Secretary of the party, Chief Sunday Ude Okoye for his new position and the members of the National Working Committee, NWC for standing firm in defence of the rule of law and party discipline.

The two former National Chairmen, in a joint statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, said that by recognizing Chief Ude Okoye, the party leadership has demonstrated its total commitment to the rule of law and rightly portrayed the party as a truly democratic institution.

Nwodo and Secondus warned the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC and the Federal Government to allow the opposition parties to breathe as a strong opposition is the right measure for vibrant democracy all over the World.

The experienced party leaders advised the new Secretary and the members of the NWC to work towards strengthening the party to position it as the party to beat in the subsequent elections.

The party leaders finally advised the party leadership to be forward-looking and not allow their acrimonious past to affect their vision for the party.

Signed

Ike Abonyi in the

Media Adviser.

February 12, 2025

Press Statement

PDP NWC Affirms Udeh Okoye as Party National Secretary

…Says It’s Bound by Judgment of Court of Appeal

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at its meeting today, Wednesday, February 12, 2025 extensively considered the Memo dated 11th February, 2025 presented by the Acting National Chairman on the issue of the National Secretary of the PDP.

The NWC in considering the Memo thoroughly examined the attached documents namely; the Declaratory Judgement of the High Court of Enugu, the Judgment of the Court of Appeal, Enugu Division which pronounced and declared Rt. Hon. S.K.E Udeh Okoye as the National Secretary of the PDP; the Legal Opinion and Advice by Dr. Kabiru T. Turaki SAN as well as that of the National Legal Adviser of the PDP.

After due consideration of the Memo and the attachments, the NWC overwhelmingly recognizes, acknowledges and confirms Rt. Hon. S.K.E Udeh Okoye as the substantive National Secretary of the PDP in full compliance with and obedience to the Judgement of the Court of Appeal, recognizing that there is no subsisting or superseding Judgment or Order from any Court of superior authority or hierarchy.

The NWC has commenced the transmission of its Resolution/Decision affirming Rt. Hon. S.K.E Udeh Okoye as the PDP National Secretary to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant bodies for recognition in line with the judgment of the Court of Appeal.

The NWC commends all Organs, leaders, critical stakeholders and members of the PDP for their steadfastness, respect for the Rule of Law and loyalty to the Party at this critical time.

The NWC reassures that it will continue to be guided strictly by the provisions of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017), Operational Guidelines, the Rule of Law and the vision of our founding fathers for the stability and growth of the Party, entrenchment of democracy and wellbeing of Nigerians.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba

National Publicity Secretary

Press Release

FG Committed to Reducing Food Prices Through Agricultural Investments – Information Minister

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to lowering the cost of food commodities through massive investments in agricultural production.

Idris stated this in Abuja on Tuesday at a press briefing to kick-start the Ministerial Briefing Session for 2025.

He emphasized that while the government will not impose price controls on food commodities, in line with the principles of a free-market economy, it remains focused on reducing prices by boosting agricultural production and increasing supply.

“In the past, we used to have these commodity boards where prices were fixed but in the spirit of free market and encouraging entrepreneurship, especially within the agricultural value chain, government didn’t feel that it was necessary for them to begin to control prices. Now, what government is doing is to ensure that there is massive production of food items and it’s a supply and demand issue. Once you have whatever you need in abundance, the tendency is that the price will automatically come down,” he said.

While speaking on the successes in the security sector, Idris said in 2024, the security forces neutralized more than 8,000 terrorists and bandits, and arrested 11,600 others, with more than 10,000 weapons recovered.

He stated that with the government’s sustained efforts against terrorists and bandits, the nation’s highways are becoming increasingly safer.

“While we still have a lot of work ahead, our highways have grown safer. The hitherto notorious Abuja-Kaduna highway is one example. As I said, there’s still much more to be done, and we will not relent in our effort.

“Additionally, about 8,000 kidnap victims were successfully rescued. We will continue to work to drive down the number of victims while scaling up our success stories in terms of deterrence, crime-solving, and prosecutions,” he said.

The Minister added that, following their designation as a terrorist organization by a Federal High Court, security forces are now empowered to apply maximum force against the Lakurawa armed group.

On the economy, Idris stated that the Federal Government’s reforms are delivering significant results across key sectors, particularly with the removal of fuel subsidy, which has successfully plugged leakages amounting to hundreds of billions of Naira annually.

He said the introduction of the Electronic Foreign Exchange Matching System (EFEMS) in December 2023 has enhanced transparency in foreign exchange transactions and facilitated the clearance of billions of dollars in backlogs, and restored investor confidence to the country.

“Last week, the Naira reached an eight-month high in the official market, while foreign capital inflow into the Nigerian Stock Exchange rose from 4% in mid-2023 to an average of 16% by the end of 2024,” he said.

Additionally, he said, in 2024, Nigeria emerged as the most attractive destination for oil and gas investments in Africa, securing over $5 billion in Final Investment Decisions (FIDs).

The Minister described 2025 as a year of consolidation, building on the progress made in the first 19 months of the Tinubu administration as it approaches its mid-term.

“Over the next three months, as we approach the second anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration, we will bring Honorable Ministers to this platform, on a weekly basis.

“This year 2025 is a year of consolidation, a year for building on the gains we have seen in the first 19 months of the administration. This maiden edition for 2025 is an opportunity to remind us of these gains, and to set the context in which these gains are being recorded, as we proceed into the mid-point of this administration,” he said.

Rabiu Ibrahim

Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation.

February 11, 2025

STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU COMMENDS GOOGLE CEO SUNDAR PICHAI FOR ADVANCING AI AND DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN NIGERIA

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended Google Chief Executive Officer Sundar Pichai for the interest of the company in advancing  Artificial Intelligence and digitap transformation in Nigeria.

President Tinubu met the Google team in Paris on Wednesday in company of Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy Bosun Tijani.

Google Team engaged in constructive discussions with President Tinubu aimed at forging a strategic partnership to enhance Nigeria’s journey towards Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital transformation.

The collaboration seeks to position Nigeria as a prominent technology and innovation hub, leveraging AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure to foster economic growth and enhance global competitiveness.

The ongoing conversations focus on key initiatives such as expanding digital infrastructure in Nigeria, equipping the workforce with essential digital skills for the future, promoting AI-driven research and innovation, encouraging greater cloud adoption across various industries, and establishing Nigeria as a key player in the global digital economy.

President Tinubu emphasised that this partnership aligns seamlessly with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, centred on economic diversification through industrialisation, technology, and innovation. The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy will provide strategic oversight, while the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) will coordinate efforts alongside the private sector to ensure widespread and meaningful impact.

Speaking at the meeting, Google CEO Sundar Pichai reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation, stating: “Nigeria has an incredible opportunity to lead in AI and digital innovation in Africa. Google is excited to continue working with the Nigerian government to create an ecosystem that fosters innovation and economic growth.”

Speaking on the engagement with the President, Dr. Bosun Tijani said partnership between Nigeria and Google represents an important opportunity to accelerate Nigeria’s technological advancement and strengthen our digital economy. He further stated that Nigeria is committed to ensuring that AI and digital transformation create tangible benefits for businesses and citizens across the country.

President Tinubu acknowledged Nigeria’s potential as a burgeoning global technology destination and expressed his commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts strategic investments from leading tech companies. He appreciated Google’s ongoing involvement in Nigeria’s digital transformation and its contribution to opening new opportunities for businesses and young talents.

The discussions will continue as both parties look to deepen their collaboration and expedite Nigeria’s digital transformation, paving the way for sustainable economic growth.

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President

(Information & Strategy)

February 12, 2025