Urhobo News

He is a great Nigerian who is doing his father land proud in The Diaspora. Dr. Abiola Oshodi’s philosophy is anchored essentially on the  advancement of the cause of developing  humanity, as regards  how to make a better society and  how to make the society a better place for living.

This humble man of outstanding achievements is an unusual man of humanity and intellectual dexterity.

Dr. Abiola Oshodi was born on 2nd of October 1971 in Lagos to Chief Owolabi Oshodi and Mrs. Helen Modupe Oshodi. Young Abiola grew up in Owo like every other child but with core moral values as inculcated and instilled in him by his parents which today distinguished him as an accomplished psychiatric doctor and one of the history makers in Nigeria who have  carved a niche for themselves in their areas of calling and philanthropy.

He started his education at the Adeolu Nursery and Primary school, Owo, Ondo state, established by the late Chief Adekunle and Mrs. Olufunke Ajasin, and he eventually completed his primary school education at Government Primary School, Owo in 1982. He proceeded to the Apata Community Grammar School, Apata, Ibadan, in 1982 where he completed his secondary school education in 1987. He attended the Government College, Ibadan briefly for his higher education in 1988 before he proceeded to the University of Ibadan to study Geology between 1988-1990.

While studying Geology, Dr. Oshodi developed an unusual interest in studying Medicine, hence, he secretly wrote the entrance examination popularly called JAMB at the time and he gained admission to the University of Benin to study Medicine in 1990 and graduated in 1998. He completed his housemanship at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, in 1999 and completed his National Youth Service at Otta General Hospital, Ogun State in year 2000.

As a pragmatic personality with exceptional ability to assess situations and make informed decisions based on what would be of great benefits to himself and humanity, and coupled with his quest for more knowledge, Dr. Oshodi thereafter proceeded to the Republic of Ireland in 2001 for his postgraduate training. He was admitted to Royal College of Surgeon, Ireland, for the four years psychiatry residency rotational training scheme from 2003 to 2007. Dr. Oshodi relocated to Canada in 2012 to set up his private psychiatry practice and he obtained the Canadian Psychiatry Fellowship in 2014 and he was also appointed an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry in 2014.

This versatile and industrious man of integrity has been described as a caring, benevolent and cheerful giver who would go the extra miles in making far-reaching decisions to impact positively on his people and humanity generally through his Foundation- The Dr. Abiola Oshodi Foundation. This foundation has in various ways transformed so many lives as countless testimonies abound.

Dr. Oshodi is married to Mrs. Tolulope Oshodi and they are blessed with two Children: Ayomide Oshodi and Ayobami Oshodi. Dr. Oshodi is the CEO of Dr. Oshodi Specialist Services, Dr. Abiola Oshodi Foundation, and the Triple A&T Farm, Owo.

Dr. Abiola Oshodi is a consummate politician of repute whose desire has always been to deploy the pedestal of politics to advance the growth of the society. Oshodi’s political slogan is “Irewolede” and in the next general election in Nigeria, he will be coming out to contest as Member House of Representative to represent Owo/ Ose Federal Constituency in the House of Representative, Abuja.

Presentation of Certificate of Return and Inauguration of the Newly Elected National Officers of our Party

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The National Convention Organizing Committee (NCOC), in collaboration with the National Working Committee (NWC) of our Great Party, wishes to invite all our former Presidents and Vice Presidents, Governors and Former Governors, Serving and former Members of the BoT, members of the National Assembly, all members of NEC, stakeholders of our party, the International Communities, CSOs and the Media to the very special and noble occasion of presentation of Certificate of Return and Swearing-in Ceremony of the newly elected National Officers as follows-

ALL MEMBERS OF THE NWC AND NEWLY ELECTED NATIONAL OFFICERS ARE KINDLY REQUESTED TO BE AVAILABLE AS FOLLOWS-

Date: Thursday, December 09, 2021

Venue: Chida International Hotel, 224 Solomon Lar Road, Utako District, Abuja, FCT.

Time: 11:00Am Prompt

Signed:

Kola Ologbondiyan,

Secretary, Publicity Sub-Committee and

National Publicity Secretary

November 25, 2021

Press Statement

PDP Felicitates with Atiku at 75

…Says He is an Irrepressible Democrat

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congratulates former Vice President and 2019 Presidential candidate of the party, Atiku Abubakar, as he marks his 75th birthday.

The PDP is proud of Atiku Abubakar as an irrepressible democrat, who remains untiring in his efforts and sacrifices towards the unity, stability and development of our dear nation.

Atiku Abubakar is a remarkably committed leader, a strong epitome of our national cohesiveness, a statesman to the core and an excellent administrator, who spared nothing, as a leader and businessman, in the pursuit of the overall good of our nation.

Indeed, the overwhelming support and solidarity he received from Nigerians across the divide in the 2019 general election is a resounding testimony of the confidence the people have in him as a leader.

Moreover, the outcome of that election did not in any way diminish the trust Nigerians have on him and the PDP. If anything, Nigerians across board firmly, and rightly so, hold that our nation would have not been in dire straits we are today but for the unfortunate aftermath of that election.

The PDP therefore congratulates Atiku Abubakar on this auspicious occasion and prays God to grant him many more years in good health to His glory and service of humanity.

Signed:

Kola Ologbondiyan

National Publicity Secretary

SPEECH DELIVERED BY ABUBAKAR MALAMI, SAN AT THE COMPLETION AND HANDOVER OF REHABILITATION OF SOKOTO – TAMBUWAL-JEGA-KONTAGORA-MAKERA ROAD, PHASE I & II SOKOTO AND KEBBI STATES, CONTRACT NO. 6161 ON THURSDAY, 25TH NOVEMBER, 2021

On behalf of the Federal Government and President Muhammadu Buhari, I bring best wishes to the Government and people of Sokoto/Kebbi States.

Our commitment to improve road transport infrastructure, our determination to improve the ease of doing business, create jobs and prosperity to lift people out of poverty brings us here today because the results of our investment are manifesting.

I can confidently say that as we enter the final lap of the tenure of the Buhari administration we are also entering a season of completion and delivery of projects.

As you can all see, we are handing over today the 155 Kilometres Road, which is Phases I&II (Sokoto-Tambuwal – Jega) of the Sokoto-Tambuwal-Jega-Kontagora – Makera Road.

This road links Sokoto and Kebbi State together, and it is a critical component of our national road network.

This road has been built to the highest quality of design and workmanship and if is well used and not abused, it should last for the designed service life.

Road abuse takes many forms such as overloading of vehicles and trucks which accelerates pavement damage, spilling of petroleum products, which dissolves all the components and allows water to penetrate, and converting the road shoulders to permanent parking places, that brings the onset of road failure from the shoulder.

We must all do our best to avoid these practices, report them when they occur and act in a lawful manner to stop them.

The road is also a story of the capacity of our people. The patriotic Nigerians who were employed directly to build this road, the scores of suppliers employed indirectly who are responsible for providing the machines utilized in the construction.

These are not only nation builders to whom we offer our salutations, they are the heart of the Nigerian economy, the micro, small and medium enterprises that drive our economic growth.

This road is also a statement of economic efficiency and ease of doing business.

This is because the travel time of averagely 4 hours before construction has now reduced to 2 hours since the completion of the road.

Of course, this road is part of our many roads to prosperity because reduced journey times means reduced expense on travel, because time is money.

This road symbolizes change as you will observe in the road furniture, such as the lane markings and Route Assurance signs.

These components had all but disappeared on our highways but our commitment to change has restored them, with the markings helping drivers to achieve better lane management and control of their vehicles; while the Route Assurance signs provide information about how much further or longer, the drivers and commuters have to travel and the distance to the next village, town or state.

Of course, another element of change is the travel experience on a new and well-built road from the old and previously unmotorable road.

Now that we have this new and well-built road, we have duties to ourselves and to other road users.

One of those duties is to ensure that we drive in accordance with the law as stipulated in the Highway Code.

Accordingly, for the avoidance of any doubt, I wish to reiterate that the maximum driving speed on this and other Federal Highways nationwide is100 (ONE HUNDRED) KM and no more.

On behalf of the Federal Government and President Muhammadu Buhari, I formally declare this Sokoto-Tambuwal – Jega Phases I & II of the Sokoto-Tambuwal-Jega-Kontagora – Makera Road completed and open for public use.

For your safety and that of other road users, I implore you not to exceed 100 KM.

We want you alive to witness and be part of the prosperity and promise of Nigeria.

I wish you safe and happy motoring.

Abubakar Malami, SAN

Honourable Minister of Justice and 

Attorney-General of the Federation

REMARKS BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF WORKS AND HOUSING, MR BABATUNDE FASHOLA, SAN, AT THE PROJECT COMPLETION AND HAND OVER FLAG OFF ON THURSDAY 25^TH NOVEMBER, 2021 AT KOKO/BESSE LGA, KEBBI STATE

On behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria and President Muhammadu Buhari, I bring good tidings to the peoples and Governments of Sokoto, Kebbi and Niger States, who will be impacted by the Sokoto-Tambuwal-Jega-Kontagora-Makera Road that our President will hand over today.

My principal message to you all is that this is the first 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.

In this phase of completion Mr. President has approved that Ministers from the various States where projects have been completed should represent him to perform the handover formalities.

The other handing over formalities that will follow these formalities which we flag off today in Kebbi will be in:

142. a)Jigawafor Section II covering 2 x 2 (dual) Kilometers between Shuwarin and Azare, connecting Jigawa and Bauchi States.

106. b)Bauchifor Section III covering 3 x 2 Kilometers between Azare and Potiskum , connecting Bauchi and Yobe States.

1. c)Benuefor Vandeikya-Obudu Cattleranch Road covering 24 Kilometersconnecting Benue and Cross River States.

26. d)Ebonyifor Nnewe- Uduma- Uburu Road covering 27 Kilometers with 14 Kilometers spur to Ishiagu connecting Enugu and Ebonyi States.

These projects represent major investment in road Transport infrastructure, which is a commitment of the Buhari administration as a driver for economic growth and prosperity.

They are visible and incontrovertible Assets in proof of what Nigeria’s resources are invested in, from a combination of our earned resources, and borrowings.

This occasion affords another opportunity to acknowledge the impact of the Sukuk funding in the completion of Azare – Potiskum, Shuwarin – Potiskum and Sokoto-Tambuwal- Kontagora Roads.

The Sukuk is currently contributing to progress of work on 44 roads across Nigeria and as we complete them, events like this will hold.

I want to express gratitude of our Government to the investors in the Sukuk and thank the Ministry of Finance, and the members of the National Assembly, especially the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Works in the 8th and 9th Assembly for their support.

Our gratitude to the Debt Management Office is deep and continuing for their role in previous SUKUKS which have been most innovative and impactful nationwide, and for the Sukuk we are expecting.

To our staff and contractors who have worked very hard to bring these projects to conclusion I also say thank you, as I cannot fail to acknowledge the cooperation of the host communities where these projects pass through or are hosted.

I hold them out as examples of what peace can achieve, and the investments that collaboration and some sacrifice can deliver if we embrace partnership with Government.

Ladies and Gentlemen, none of these would have been possible without the support of Ministers in the Federal Executive Council during debates over the projects.

To all Ministers in the first term and this current term, I express gratitude on behalf of the Ministry of Works and Housing for your support.

To the President and Vice President who preside for long hours over the Council meetings, your leadership is now bearing fruits and the evidence of change is now manifesting.

Bauchi, Jigawa, Benue, Cross Rivers, Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger, Enugu and Ebonyi bear witness and there is more to come.

Thank You.

BABATUNDE RAJI FASHOLA, SAN

MINISTER OF WORKS AND HOUSING

SANWO-OLU DELIVERS IBESHE LAGOSHOMS PROJECT, ADDS 480 HOMES TO HOUSING STOCK

• Estate named after late ex-NBA President B.O. Benson

• Governor lays foundation for project’s scheme II

Determined to bridge the housing deficit and create affordable accommodation for residents, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday delivered and commissioned a 480-unit housing project in Ikorodu division.

Sanwo-Olu named the LagosHOMS project built in Ibeshe after the late former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and Asiwaju of Ikorodu, Chief Babatunde Olusola Benson, SAN.

The Governor described the project as “a modern style” accommodation initiated to improve the residents’ comfort and wellbeing.

The project comprises 40 blocks of one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three bedrooms apartments, with fully fitted kitchen, store and guest toilets. The estate also has ample space for parking, a water treatment plant, overhead water tanks, borehole, central sewage system, seven transformers, one injection station and two dumpsites, as well as buildings for generator house and central hall.

Sanwo-Olu reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritising development of housing projects that would enhance comfort and strengthen the aesthetic of the environment. The event, he said, was a testimony to the fulfillment of his electoral promises.

The Governor, who also performed groundbreaking of Ibeshe Scheme II, said that his administration had created 17,000 direct jobs and 18,000 indirect jobs through the construction of various housing schemes. He said the State’s housing projects had direct engagement of consultants, contractors and artisans in the State.

He said: “In the past two and half years, we have been earnestly addressing the huge housing deficit in Lagos. There is no doubt that this administration is passionate about building decent and durable homes for our people. Actually, the provision of more housing facilities is a major aspect in our transformational agenda tagged THEMES.

“Through our development blueprint, the State is focusing on the Built sector as a driving factor for economic development, social inclusion and job creation. In deepening our activities in this sector, the economy of the State has been greatly revitalised. This is because building homes is a capital-intensive activity that positively affects every sector of the economy.

“We are here because every responsive government knows about the impact of good and decent homes on the welfare of the people. This has a ripple effect on other areas of life by adding meaning and essence to living. It is in acknowledgment of this fact that this administration considers housing development to be a priority on its agenda.”

Sanwo-Olu, while reiterating his administration commitment to affordable housing for Lagosians, said private sector involvement in housing development is vital to robust housing delivery.

The Governor said by the time of his administration’s third anniversary, a total of 7,000 homes would have been delivered by the State under his leadership, adding that the Government was embarking on a partnership with the private sector to provide more housing needs for the people.

“About five weeks ago, we commissioned an estate of 100 homes constructed through a joint venture in Lekki. Today, we are here again to release another set of 480 homes delivered through direct budgetary allocation. In utilising these two strategies of partnership with the private sector and budgetary allocation, we have been able to deliver 13 major housing schemes all over the State.

“We are still counting because we are still at work in a number of housing construction sites all over the State. Apart from the one being commissioned today, three schemes are virtually ready and awaiting commissioning at Sangotedo, Odo-Onosa Ayandelu, and Agbowa. It is our expectation that by the time this administration is marking the third anniversary, a total of 7,000 homes would have been delivered to the people

“Within this location, there is also a joint venture housing scheme which is being constructed in collaboration with a private investor. This is just one of the partnership efforts of this administration. There are still other joint venture schemes at Ijora-Badia, Tolu-Ajegunle, Lekki and Ajah to mention a few. By involving the private sector, the State is widening the home provision net and opening the door wider for more homeownership opportunities.

“The private sector involvement in housing development is vital to a robust housing delivery policy. In creating opportunities for private investors through various reforms, the State Government is aiding vibrancy in the economy. Together both government and private investors are meeting a basic human need while galvanizing the economy at the same time,” the governor said.

On the development of Ibeshe Phase II, Sanwo-Olu said the scheme would yield a total of 192 flats with supporting infrastructure, which will include a network of roads, drainage system, car park, electricity and water reticulation system.

Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Moruf Akinderu-Fatai said the ceremony demonstrated the readiness of the Sanwo-Olu administration to improve the wellbeing of residents through the supply of affordable housing units across the State.

He said the location of the project, developed through budgetary allocation, would give the allottees a level of environmental protection and comfort, as the scheme was developed close to a shoreline thereby making it a good choice.

The project, he said, has also improved socio-economic indices of the area.

“It is worthy of mention that housing development comes under the pillar of making Lagos a 21st Century economy in line with the T.H.E.M.E.S. Agenda. Based on this policy thrust, the State Government has been working on the completion of all the housing schemes initiated but left unfinished by previous administrations in the State,” the Commissioner said.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

NOVEMBER 25, 2021

3 FORMER MABISCO WORKERS WERE ARRESTED AND DETAINED AT PANTI FOR NO REASON

 CDWR DEMANDS IMMEDIATE AND UNCONDITIONAL RELEASE OF THESE WORKERS

 CDWR CALLS FOR SOLIDARITY

The following former staff of MABISCO were clandestinely arrested at Allen Avenue Ikeja, Lagos today and detained at Panti Police Station Yaba and they are Usman Yahaya (08063205712), Bisiriyi Babatunde (09081192184) and Olayiwola Akin (08140640231).

The arrest was stage-managed by the Nigerian police who posed as Journalist of the Sahara Reporters who was interested in the poor working condition at MABISCO and the arrest was ordered by My Felix, the CEO of MABISCO. In actual fact, Sahara Reporters reported the poor working conditions workers are subjected to on Tuesday, November 23, 2021 with the heading (“Ogun Biscuit Factory Suspends Workers for Protesting N1000 Slave Wage”). The company owner (Mr Felix 08171229888) who was not happy about the report ordered the arrest of these workers.

The arrest took place at No 6 Allen Avenue Ikeja, the office of Citizens Aid for Social Justice. The secretary who came to pick these workers at the bus stop is one Miss/Mrs Joyce (07033168371).

The working conditions at MABISCO is poor and workers are subjected to all sorts of anti-labour practices. Recently, some workers were suspended for protesting N1000 daily wage. It is interesting to note that workers work 12 hours daily but earn so little. Mr Felix deducts pension contributions but pockets it instead of remitting to the Pension Fund Administrator (PFA).

The three workers are currently detained at Panti Police Station for no reason. Campaign for Democratic and Workers’ Rights (CDWR) demands their immediate and unconditional release. THEY ARE NO CRIMINALS!

We appeal to the general public to send protest messages to Mr Felix (MABISCO CEO) on 08171229888 to demand their release. We also appeal to the general public to call on the Nigerian Police to release the 3 workers immediately.

CDWR calls on the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to intervene.

SIGNED

Comrade Rufus Olusesan                                        Comrade Chinedu Bosah

National Chairperson                                                  National Publicity Secretary

PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS PRINCE ARTHUR EZE AT 73

President Muhammadu Buhari rejoices with Prince Arthur Eze on the occasion of his 73rd birthday November 25, 2021.

The President joins family, friends and well-wishers in celebrating a man who through dint of hard work and good fortune has devoted his resources to help those in need, reaching out generously to under-privileged people and families, communities, academic, religious and health institutions.

President Buhari is delighted that Prince Eze has used his massive investments in the oil and gas sector to contribute to the development of the nation’s economy, provide gainful employment to many Nigerians, and extended his business empire beyond the shores of the country.

As the Ozoigbondu marks another year, the President prays God Almighty to grant him good health, happiness and peace, with more fruitful years to serve God and humanity.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

November 25, 2021

PRESIDENT BUHARI HAILS CHIEF JACKSON GAIUS-OBASEKI AT 76

President Muhammadu Buhari sends warm felicitations to former Group Managing Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr Jackson Gaius-Obaseki on his 76th birthday, November 25, 2021.

President Buhari congratulates the renowned oil and gas expert for his dedication to national development, particularly in one of the cornerstones of the economy, consistently instituting reforms, counselling leaders and opening up opportunities for more investments.

The President notes the historic role the former Chairman of Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG), who currently chairs Brass LNG, played in repositioning of the sector by stimulating necessary policy reviews and legal frameworks to ensure competitiveness and inclusiveness, especially regarding the communities.

As Dr Gaius-Obaseki turns 76, President Buhari commends his foresight in the energy sector, and shared experience to prepare the nation for the challenges and gains.

The President prays for all round wellbeing of the former Group Managing Director of the NNPC, and his family.

Femi Adesina

Special adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

November 24, 2021

PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS FORMER HIGH COMMISSIONER TO UK, DR DALHATU TAFIDA AT 81

President Muhammadu Buhari joins family, friends and associates of former Nigeria’s High Commissioner, United Kingdom, Dr Dalhatu Sarki Tafida, to celebrate his 81st birthday, November 24, 2021.

The President warmly felicitates with the dedicated public servant, who had variously worked for a greater nation, serving variously as Medical Doctor, Consultant Physician/Permanent Secretary, Chief Consultant Physician to a President, Commissioner of Education and Minister of Health.

President Buhari notes the wisdom and experience that the former High Commissioner had always brought to every national assignment, setting standards, motivating others to achieve goals, and uplifting many in his community and across the nation.

As a member of the Constituent Assembly, 1988-89 and Senate Majority leader, the President affirms that Dr Tafida also played a major role in shaping political developments in the country, and has remained relevant in inspiring many leaders.

President Buhari prays that the Almighty God will grant him good health, strength and longer life.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

November 23, 2021

NORTH-WEST GOVERNORS VISIT IKOYI COLLAPSED BUILDING SITE

• Commend Sanwo-Olu for instituting tribunal of inquiry

North-West governors on Wednesday paid a condolence visit to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu over the Gerrard Road, Ikoyi building collapse, which killed over forty persons few weeks ago. The Governors also sympathised with the people of the State and families of those who died in the unfortunate incident.

The North-West Governors Forum represented by its chairman and Kastina State Governor, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari and his Kano State counterpart, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for setting up a Tribunal of Inquiry into the collapsed building.

It would be recalled that a 21-storey building, still under construction, collapsed on Monday, November 1 at Gerrard Road, Ikoyi. Fifteen people survived while 45 people died in the unfortunate incident.

Speaking during the visit to the Collapsed Building, Masari, who was accompanied by Governors Ganduje and Sanwo-Olu, said they are happy that the Governor of Lagos State has instituted a tribunal of inquiry to unravel issues surrounding the collapsed building.

He said: “We are here representing governors of North West to physically come to condole with his Excellency, the Governor of Lagos State, families of the deceased and the entire Lagos community on the unfortunate incident that has happened.

“We pray to God that this kind of thing will not happen again. On behalf of the people of North West, accept our sincere condolences and sympathy.

“We cannot escape high rise buildings in Lagos but we must ensure that it does not cost lives and properties of people.

“We are happy that the Governor of Lagos State has instituted an inquiry tribunal that will unravel what happened here.”

Governor Ganduje also commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for taking immediate action to show concern during the collapsed building.

He said: “We are here to condole with the people and the government of Lagos State and in particular, condole with families of those who lost their lives and sympathise with them on the very unfortunate situation.

“Lagos is a mega city. Comparing it to other megacities in the world and considering the circumstances of Lagos due to lack of adequate land for development, increase in population and high density, the issue of building high rise is absolutely necessary and cannot be avoided. But it is unfortunate that we have found ourselves in what happened.

“We are happy that the governor has taken immediate action to show concern about what happened. We are also happy that he appointed an independent technical panel that will examine and find out what actually happened in order to avoid future occurrences. We appreciate Governor Sanwo-Olu’s effort and condole with him and the people of Lagos state, particularly the families of those who lost their lives.”

Responding, Governor Sanwo-Olu appreciated the North-West governors for commiserating with the government and people of Lagos State over the Ikoyi collapsed building.

He said: “We have had various degrees of tribulations and very difficult moments for us as a state and there have been lessons learnt. We are all aware of the investigation into the collapsed building.

“It gladdens me to know that while Lagos is grieving, we are not alone. That is why I am excited and happy that some of my senior colleagues and brothers have come here to express solidarity and to also sympathise with the government and people of Lagos State.”

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

NOVEMBER 24, 2021

PRESS RELEASE

INFRASTRUCTURE, EDUCATION TOP LAGOS’ PRIORITIES IN 2022, AS SANWO-OLU PROPOSES N1.39 TRILLION BUDGET

• Activates 30-year Devt Plan for State, says sustained funding in key growth sectors to stabilise economy

Lagos State has earmarked huge capital expenditure in the 2022 fiscal year to service key growth areas in order to consolidate the recovery of the State’s economy and positively transform residents’ livelihoods.

In the proposed N1.388 trillion budget for year 2022 presented to the House of Assembly on Wednesday, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said the State would be spending N325 billion to deliver vital infrastructure projects in key sectors to energise and expand the growth of the State’s economy.

The key areas of growth identified by the Governor include Works and Infrastructure, Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Agriculture, Transportation, Energy and Mineral Resources, Tourism, Entertainment and Creative Industry, Commerce and Industry, Wealth Creation and Employment.

The human capital development drive of the Sanwo-Olu administration is projected to take a leap in 2022, with an allocation of 21.24 per cent combined in the total expenditure to education and health.

The financial proposal, christened “Budget of Consolidation”, will be the last full-year fiscal plan of the State before the next general election.

Sanwo-Olu said the coming year presented an opportunity for the State Government to consolidate on the progress recorded by his administration, while leveraging investment in-flow, partnership and business-friendly policies to maximally translate his achievements into noticeable positive impact in the lives of residents.

About N823.4 billion, representing 59 per cent of the 2022 budget, is earmarked for capital expenditure. Recurrent expenditure, representing 41 per cent, is N565 billion, which includes personnel cost, overhead and debt services.

The Governor noted that his administration had clearly articulated its vision in governance through the T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda in the last two years, adding that the State was now looking towards the future with the activation of the implementation of a 30-year development plan (2021-2051) which replaced previous 13-year growth plan developed in 2012.

He said: “Year 2022 Budget is the next step on our journey to true and sustainable greatness in Lagos. The challenging environment requires that we focus our interventions on areas of greatest social impact and achieving the greatest good for the greatest number in the shortest possible time. Next year is an excellent opportunity for us to consolidate on what we have done so far, and ensure that every effort, investment inflow, partnership, business policy is translating maximally into noticeable positive impact in the lives of our people.

“It is in this light that we are presenting the Year 2022 Budget of Consolidation with a size of N1,388,285,459,990.51. This financial proposal is presented with a sense of duty and absolute commitment to the transformation of Lagos to a preferred global destination for residence, commerce, and investment. The budget projects to see a continuing but gradual recovery to growth in economic activity as the global economy cautiously recovers from the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic.”

Of the total proposed expenditure, N1.135 trillion would accrue from Internally Generated Revenues (IGRs) and federal transfers, while deficit financing of N253 billion would be sourced from external and domestic loans, and bonds projected to be within the State’s fiscal sustainability parameters.

The State would be earmarking an aggregate of N137.64 billion, representing 9.92 per cent of the 2022 budget, for the funding of green investment in Environment, Social Protection, Housing and Community Amenities.

On Security, the Governor explained that the State’s continued investment in the sector had reaped positive dividends, stressing that more allocation would be channeled to security in 2022 to make Lagos safer for living, working and investment.

Despite the global economic downturn, Sanwo-Olu said Lagos had seen more construction machinery deployed to deliver new infrastructure in the areas of roads, rail, housing, health, education and waterways.

He said: “There has been significant progress on the Lagos Rail Mass Transit projects, which include both the 27-kilometre Blue line, that will run from Okokomaiko to Marina, and the 32-kilometre Red line that will run from Agbado to Oyigbo and eventually to Marina.

“These rails, when completed, will deliver a combined 32.5 million people every month on their respective routes, reducing travel time by over 250 per cent, increasing the productivity and quality of life of our people.

“The Red line will come with eight new modern train stations, 10 new overpasses and 13 pedestrian bridges. These ambitious projects are expected to be commissioned in the fourth quarter of 2022.”

The outgoing year’s budget, Sanwo-Olu said, performed “remarkably well” despite the challenges encountered by the State, noting that the expenditure performance at the third quarter of 2021 rose to 80 per cent.

The Governor said the need to stabilise the State’s economy led to the adoption of far-reaching cost saving measures, including restructuring of local borrowings to reduce overall debt service obligations on Lagos.

“The State Government has successfully restructured all existing loan facilities, translating into a reduction in interest rates from an average of 18 per cent to about 12.75 per cent. This year, Fitch, a reputable international rating agency, upgraded the rating of Lagos from AA+ to AAA, reflecting Lagos’ capacity to service its financial obligations, compared with national and international peers, as well as its resilient operating performance during the pandemic,” Sanwo-Olu said.

The Governor thanked Lagosians for supporting and standing by his administration in the past two years. He said there were more challenges lying ahead, urging the residents to join hands with him in delivering his programmes for common good. He assured that the pace of governance would be amplified in the coming years.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, praised the Governor for the “outstanding performance” of the 2021 budget, especially in infrastructural renewal and wealth creation among other things, promising speedy and meticulous vetting of the 2022 expenditure proposal.

Obasa said the progress under the Sanwo-Olu administration was commendable, but urged the executive arm to look inward and devise other methods of improving the State’s IGR beyond the current sources.

He said: “While the projections of this administration are being guided by its THEMES agenda, we need to further strengthen it to touch the lives of the people. It is a known fact that Lagos has the highest foreign debt profile. This loan has been the secret behind most of the infrastructural developments we all see all over the State. Nevertheless, I will advise the executive to focus more on intense projects that will be geared towards alleviating poverty in our State.”

The Speaker pledged more legislative support for the executive to achieve all the outlined objectives in the 2022 fiscal year.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

NOVEMBER 24, 2021

25 November 2021

Babajide Sanwoolu, Ajoritsedere Awosika, Ebuka, Taaoma, Laycon join Adebola Williams at official launch of African Power Girls

The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwoolu; Chairman, Access Bank PLC, Ajoritsedere Awosika; CEO, RadioNow, Kadaria Ahmed; Group Executive Director, Rainoil Limited, Godrey Ogbechie; were amongst a host of dignitaries who graced the official launch of Adebola Williams’ book – African Power Girls.

Written for kids, especially young girls seeking encouragement to follow their purpose, thrive in their chosen careers, and fulfil their mission, the African Power Girls book summarises stories dating back to the 1900s. The amazing stories captured by the author showcase the strength, freedom, challenges, and victory of spotlighted female legends.

“Narratives deeply entrenched in misogyny and chauvinism, strategically targeted at disempowering and relegating women have long been promoted in many societies in Africa,” said Adebola Williams, while speaking on the purpose of the book. “The continent needs to remember and be inspired by the stories of trailblazers. We must impress it upon the girl child that being female is not a disability; neither is it a disadvantage. Being a woman is a strength, a badge of honour to be worn with pride,” he added.

Held at the Terra Kulture, Victoria Island, Lagos, the event saw over 120 secondary school students engage with some of the leading personalities present and also included several interesting book reading sessions.

The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwoolu, represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Folasade Adefisayo, charged attendees to remember that they are special, emulate the spotlighted ‘African Power Girls’ and strive to make a difference in whatever fields they choose.

In her keynote address, the Executive Chairman, Access Bank PLC, Ajoritsedere Awosika, urged the students to treat mistakes as stepping stones to success. She further drove home the importance of commitment and hard work, citing them as key components to living impactful lives that posterity will remember.

African Power Girls features international icons like Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (Liberia), Efua Theodora Sutherland (Ghana), Wangari Mathai (Kenya), Miriam Makeba (South Africa), Huda Sha’arawi (Egypt), Nike Davies, Grace Alile Williams (Nigeria), and many more inspirational figures.

More guests who graced the launch event include Kola Adesina, Group Managing Director Sahara Power Group; Danladi Verheijen, Managing Partner, Verod Capital Management; Osayi Alile, CEO, ACT Foundation; Gbolahan Shaba, Managing Director, LATC Marine; seasoned journalist and producer, Adesuwa Onyenokwe; Lawrence Amadi, Partner KPMG; actors, Chioma Akpotha, Nse Ikpe-Etim, Eku Edewor; comedienne, Taaooma; BBNaija and Rubbin’ Minds host, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu; singer and song-writer, Timi Dakolo; BBNaija winner, Laycon, renowned singer and photographer, TY Bello; on-air personality, Agatha Amata, amongst others.

PRESS RELEASE

LAGOS OPEN FOR COLLABORATION, INVESTMENTS FROM WILLING PARTNERS, SAYS SANWO-OLU

• Seeks partnership with Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland

• We’ll partner LASG in circular economy, human development, others – Nordic ministers

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday, said the State is set to harness the potential of its landmass and face challenges headlong with innovative solutions as a 21st Century Mega City.

He said with a landmass of less than 0.4 percent, the Lagos State Government was ready and open for collaboration investments from willing partners as well as the political will to address issues on climate change.

Governor Sanwo-Olu made the statement while speaking at the Nordic – Nigeria Connect Smart City Lagos 2021, a high-power conference on Smart City solutions and circular economy themed: “Developing a Greener Lagos” held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island on Tuesday.

The Nordic countries include Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland.

Governor Sanwo-Olu assured foreign partners, especially investors from the Nordic countries that Lagos is ready and open for collaboration for investments from willing partners, noting that Lagos has taken steps to improve ease of doing business.

He said issues on the agenda for the conference “are of considerable importance to our planet, especially as we ramp up efforts to forge lasting consensus on tackling climate change,” adding that the timing of the conference could not be more perfect, in the immediate aftermath of COP26.

“Lagos is open for collaboration and investment. We have the talent and expertise. We have the financial markets. We have the demographics to support your business cases and plans. We have massive opportunities for the rollout of low-carbon infrastructure and solutions, and we have the political will, as a government, to ensure that your ideas and investments take root and thrive.

“We are delighted that many of the investors we are seeing in Lagos are deeply committed to projects that advance the desired goals of climate resilience and environmental friendliness, while also making great business sense and meeting the practical needs of the populace.

“I am delighted that we are seeing considerable interest in our ideas and opportunities, from the Nordic countries, which are themselves world leaders in the circular economy, in environmental sustainability, and in the inevitable transition to a net-zero-carbon future,” he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu who identified some of the challenges facing Lagos State with its large population to include, transportation, infrastructure, environment, waste management and Green Energy, among others, said that his administration’s driving force is the T.H.E.M.E.S. developmental agenda.

“I am pleased to note that our administration’s governing agenda for Lagos, known as the T.H.E.M.E.S. agenda prioritises that “21st Century” thinking. The ‘M’ in T.H.E.M.E.S. stands for Making Lagos a 21st Century Megacity, while the first E represents Education and Technology, which are the key requirements for the evolution of a Smart’ City,”  he said.

He said Lagos State Government is currently building Nigeria’s biggest metropolitan fiber-optic network that will provide high-speed internet access for public institutions and private sectors, as well as investing public funds in start-ups and academic research, through the Lagos State Research and Innovation Council (LASRIC), as part of its commitment to entrenching a culture of innovation.

“We are also looking at agricultural systems that can enable us to maximise productivity while minimising environmental impact, considering our limited land resource. We are automating and digitising various government procedures, like land and property registration – which as you know will have a positive environmental impact, in terms of minimising travel to government offices while also reducing the use of paper,” he said.

Speaking at the event on behalf of the Nordic countries, Deputy Minister for International Trade, Finland, Ms. Nina Vaskunlahti; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Norway, H.E. Anniken Huitfeldt; State Secretary for Trade and Global Sustainability, Denmark, Mr. Steen Hommel and State Secretary for Foreign Trade and Nordic Affairs, Sweden, Mr. Krister Nilsson, said their countries are set to partner with the Lagos State government in the areas of the circular economy, human development, recycling and waste management and Green transport solution, among others.

Also speaking, the Founder, the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Mr. Tony Elumelu commended the Nordic countries for organising the event and interacting with the Lagos State government and business practitioners for investments in the State, noting that entrepreneurship is very key to Africa development.

He implored government and public sector leaders to create an enabling environment for investors and foreign partners.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

NOVEMBER 23, 2021

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU MOURNS BABATUNDE OMIDINA (BABA SUWE)

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Omidina family and the Nigerian entertainment industry on the passage of a renowned Nigerian comic actor, Mr. Babatunde Omidina, popularly known as Baba Suwe, who died on Monday at age 63.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said Omidina’s demise was painful and a great loss to the deceased family, Nollywood and the country as a whole, especially fans and lovers of the popular Yoruba actor.

The Governor urged the deceased family, friends, associates and the movie practitioners to take the death of ‘Baba Suwe’ in good faith and as an act of God.

He said: “The late Babatunde Omidina, popularly known as Baba Suwe was a bundle of talent, who used his God-given gift to advance the course of mankind. As an actor, he put smiles on the faces of many people through his comic roles in different movies and television drama series.

“No doubt the death of a loved one is usually painful because it is irreparable but we must always take solace in God, especially if the deceased had lived a fulfilled life, just like the late Babatunde Omidina, who was a celebrated actor during his lifetime.

“Baba Suwe’s death had left a vacuum that would take some time to be filled in the entertainment industry. I pray that God will grant the late Babatunde Omidina eternal rest and grant the family, colleagues and associates the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

NOVEMBER 23, 2021