News From Nigeria
President Muhammadu Buhari Wednesday in Abuja said Nigeria lost an estimated $50billion worth of investments in ten years, created by the uncertainty of non-passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), lack of progress and stagnation in the petroleum industry.
In his remarks at a ceremony on passage of the PIA, which preceded the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, the President said the stagnation affected growth of the economy, citing lack of political will on the part of past administrations to actualize the needed transformation.
President Buhari said assent of the Petroleum Industry Bill on August 16, 2021, marks the end of decades of uncertainty and under-investment in the petroleum industry.
“We are all aware that past Administrations have identified the need to further align the industry for global competitiveness, but there was lack of political will to actualize this needed transformation.
“This lack of progress has stagnated the growth of the industry and the prosperity of our economy. In the past ten years, Nigeria has lost an estimated US$50billion worth of investments due to uncertainty created by the non-passage of the PIB.
“This administration believes that the timely passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill will help our country attract investments across the oil and gas value chain.
“In view of the value our Nation and investors will derive from a stable fiscal framework for the oil and gas industry, our Administration has found it necessary to work with the two Chambers of the National Assembly to ensure the passage of the PIB, ’’ he said.
President Buhari noted that signing of the bill was part of the administration’s commitment to building a competitive and resilient petroleum industry that will attract investment, improve our revenue base, create jobs and support our economic diversification agenda.
The President said as a “nation that depends on oil resources for the development of other sectors, Nigeria runs a Petroleum Industry that is governed largely by laws enacted over 50 years ago such as the principal legislation; the Petroleum Act of 1969 and other obsolete legislations.’’
He said the Presidential assent of the bill to “Petroleum Industry Act 2021” marked the beginning of the journey towards a competitive and resilient petroleum industry that will attract investments to support the nation’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan.
“The “Petroleum Industry Act 2021” creates a regulatory environment that would ensure efficiency and accountability across the oil and gas value chain and reposition NNPC to a commercially driven National Petroleum Company that is accountable to the Federation.
“The Act also provides for a direct benefit framework that will enable sustainable development of Host Communities. I appeal to the host communities to look carefully at the contents of the Bill which in the implementation will bring real and lasting benefits to them.
“Furthermore, the Act provides for deliberate end to gas flaring which would facilitate the attainment of Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions of the Paris Agreement through a funding mechanism to support gas flare out project in host communities,’’ he added.
President Buhari said the administration believes that the timely passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill will help our country attract investments across the oil and gas value chain.
While directing immediate implementation of the framework for the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), he urged all relevant stakeholders to comply and reposition for full activation within 12 months.
The President said the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, will head the implementation team, urging all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDA) to adjust to the transition, designed to reposition the economy.
“To consolidate the commitment of this administration to delivering the value proposition of this law, I have approved an implementation framework commencing immediately to ensure the industry envisaged in the new law begins to take shape.
“The implementation process to be headed by the Hon Minister of State, Petroleum Resources is hereby tasked with the completion of the implementation of this act within 12 months. I am therefore directing all relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government to fully cooperate in ensuring the successful and timely implementation of this law,’’ he said.
President Buhari commended leadership of the 9th Assembly for their continued pursuit of national aspiration and demonstration of mutual harmony with the Executive in the pursuit of patriotic outcome in passage of PIB.
“I also commend the entire team in the executive that worked tirelessly to ensure the delivery of this strategic legislation for our country. I thank Nigerians and other industry stakeholders for their contributions and support in achieving this historic landmark,’’ he said.
The ceremony was attended by the Senate President, Dr. Ahmed Lawan, Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, Deputy Speaker Hon. Ahmed Idris Wase and other lawmakers, members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Mele Kyari.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 18, 2021
August 18, 2021
Press Statement
Sanusi’s Exposé on Buhari, APC, Vindicates Us -PDP
…Calls on More Nigerians to Speak Out
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says that the exposé by former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, that the gains made by Nigeria in 35 years were wiped out in the last five years, vindicates our stance that President Muhammadu Buhari-led All Progressives Congress (APC) administration has wrecked our nation.
The PDP asserts that the declaration by Sanusi Lamido directly reflects the position of majority of Nigerians across the country.
Noting that the dire situation is now beyond politics, the PDP calls on more stakeholders to speak out irrespective of ethnicity, creed and political party affiliations, so as to save the nation from a total collapse.
The Buhari Presidency and the APC have in the last six years, only succeeded in destroying every sector of our national life with their manifest incompetence, unbridled corruption, treasury looting, impunity, exclusionist and restrictive economic policies that have brought our nation to her knees.
Nigerians can recall that the PDP handed over a robust economy, rated the largest hub in Africa and one of the fastest growing in the world with Fitch B+ rating and Gross Domestic Produce (GDP) of $574 billion to President Buhari and the APC in May 2015.
Sadly, in the last six years, Buhari-led APC administration has reduced our productive sectors to a complete wreckage with alarming 33.3 percent unemployment and 17.38% inflation rates; over 60 million hitherto flourishing businesses folded up and the naira crashing from N167 to a dollar in 2015 to N512 under the APC corrupt and directionless watch.
More depressing is that the corrupt APC administration has practically erased all the gained of the debt repayment achieved by the PDP, returned our nation to a beggar state and mortgaged the sovereignty of our country with reckless borrowing and accumulated N33.107 trillion.
Life has become so unbearable in Nigeria under President Buhari and the APC, that more than 82.9 million Nigerians are no longer able to afford their daily meals and other necessities of life, with our nation now ranking as poverty capital of the world and 98th out of 107 in Global Hunger Index.
Today, under the APC, a liter of fuel which sold for N87 under the PDP now sells for N165, a bag of rice which sold for N8,000 now sells for N30,000, a measure of garri and beans which sold for N150 and N250 now sell for N600 and N800 respectively; a measure of maize and guinea corn which sold for about N150 now sells for N400, a kilo of meat which sold for about N800 now sells for about N2,300 while a 12.5 kg of cooking gas which sold for N3,000 now sells for over N6,000, all thanks to the incompetence and corruption of the Buhari-led APC administration.
Furthermore, the compromises of the APC administration have led to the escalation of terrorist activities, banditry, kidnapping, killings, bloody agitations as well as other acts of violence that have turned our nation into a large funeral palour, with no hope in sight.
Indeed, this is not the way our nation should go. The PDP therefore urges more Nigerians to speak out to rescue our nation from this fast descent to a failed state.
Signed:
Kola Ologbondiyan
National Publicity Secretary
PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS ENGINEER, ADMINISTRATOR, ENTREPRENEUR, EMEKA OKWUOSA AT 60
President Muhammadu Buhari salutes Chairman/CEO of Oilserv, Engineer Emeka Okwuosa, as he turns 60 August 19, 2021.
The President pays tribute to the Electronics/Electrical engineer who graduated from the then University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), and who has built a reputation as an astute administrator, investor, and entrepreneur.
Okwuosa, the President notes, successfully runs a chain of companies, both within and outside the country, with special interest in the oil and gas industry, playing a major role in the building of the landmark Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) pipeline under construction.
President Buhari rejoices with the Okwuosa family, their friends, associates and well-wishers on the auspicious occasion, wishing the celebrant long life and prosperity.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
August 18, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI APPROVES STEERING COMMITTEE ON PETROLEUM INDUSTRY ACT
President Muhammadu Buhari has commenced implementation of the newly signed Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) by approving a steering committee to oversee the process.
The steering committee is headed by the Honourable Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva.
Other members are: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Group Managing Director, NNPC, Executive Chairman, FIRS, Representative of the Ministry of Justice, Representative of the Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Natural Resources, Barrister Olufemi Lijadu as External Legal Adviser, while the Executive Secretary, Petroleum Technology Development Fund, will serve as Head of the Coordinating Secretariat and the Implementation Working Group.
The primary responsibility of the steering committee shall be to guide the effective and timely implementation of the PIA in the course of transition to the petroleum industry envisaged in the reform program, and ensure that the new institutions created have the full capability to deliver on their mandate under the new legislation.
The committee has 12 months duration for the assignment, and periodic updates will be given to Mr President.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
August 18, 2021
President Muhammadu Buhari will on Thursday confer with security chiefs at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The President returned to Abuja last Friday after 18 days in London, during which he attended an education summit and did health checks.
The security forces have in the past few weeks taken the battle more robustly to insurgents, bandits, and all other criminals troubling the country, and they are now surrendering in droves.
The President will be brought up to speed on developments at the Thursday meeting, while plans to bring a decisive end to the challenges will be formulated.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
August 17, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS PRESIDENT OF NIGERIAN BAPTIST CONVENTION, DR ISRAEL AKANJI AT 60
President Muhammadu Buhari warmly felicitates with President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji, on his 60th birthday, rejoicing with family members, friends and the body of Christ on the auspicious occasion.
President Buhari felicitates with the cleric for the milestone, congratulating him on a life dedicated to the service of God, country and humanity.
The President notes in particular, Rev. Akanji’s compassion, abhorrence to violence and his biblical posture on all national issues, with clear preference for dialogue, peace and the wellbeing of society.
The President believes Dr. Akanji’s commitment to improving the lives of many, through preaching and teaching the gospel, reveals his love for God and his people.
He urges the religious leader to use his wealth of knowledge and experience to keep serving the nation.
President Buhari prays for the wellbeing of Dr. Akanji and his family.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 17, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS FORMER DEPUTY SENATE PRESIDENT, IBRAHIM MANTU
President Muhammadu Buhari condoles with family of former Deputy Senate President, Ibrahim Mantu, joining Plateau State Government and indigenes in mourning the passing of the renowned politician.
President Buhari commiserates with leaders and members of the National Aseembly, friends and political associates of the former Deputy Senate President, who dedicated most of his life to service of his people.
The President prays for the repose of the soul of the departed, believing his legacy of reconciliation and promotion of peaceful co-existence will always be remembered, especially in bringing more harmony in his state and the country at large.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 17, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT-ELECT OF ZAMBIA
President Muhammadu Buhari congratulates the President-elect of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema, on his victory in the presidential election of August 12, 2021.
The President applauds the people of Zambia who came out in their numbers to exercise their civic rights, voting candidates of their choice, signposting that the prospect of a united, stable and prosperous Africa lies in the power of the people to freely elect their leaders.
President Buhari commends President Edgar Lungu for accepting the outcome of the election and a peaceful transfer of power, noting that this patriotic disposition deserves the praise of all lovers of democracy.
Highlighting the close and historic relationship between Nigeria and Zambia, the Nigerian leader looks forward to working very closely with the Zambian President-elect for the peace, development and prosperity of both nations, and in the common commitment to promote the goals and objectives of our African Union (AU).
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 16, 2021
Anambra State Congratulates Air Peace, likens Chairman Onyema’s Patriotism to Zik’s
Anambra State has praised Nigeria’s leading air carrier, Air Peace, for its new “No City Left Behind” strategy which has seen it open operations in different parts of the country in the last few months with rapidity.
The latest operations were opened in Gombe and Ibadan, Oyo State, within a space of three days.
In a statement in Awka, Anambra State capital, the state government said that “it is proud of the development record, the pan-African vision and commitment of the airline’s leadership, particularly its chairman, Chief Allen Onyema, a worthy son of our great state”.
In the statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Mr C. Don Adinuba, the government commended “the carrier for an aggressive route development programme when airlines across the globe are managing to remain afloat as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic which dealt a serious blow to not just the aviation sector but also the entire tourism industry”.
It is delightful, according to the Anambra State government, that while some other airlines are acquiring refurbished aircraft, Air Peace “has been purchasing a large number of brand new and state of the art equipment and deploying them on Nigerian domestic routes for the safety and comfort of our people.
“The use of Embraer 195, known for an excellent safety record, is most welcome.
“What is more, we are delighted to hear from people like Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State that the Air Peace operation in Ibadan has resulted in the crash of air tariffs in certain places, which is pleasant news to Nigerian travellers”.
The government asked other airlines to borrow a leaf from Air Peace by developing routes like Ibadan-Port Harcourt and Enugu-Kano to deepen national integration rather than continue with traditional flying from Abuja into Lagos and flying into other cities from these places.
“Chief Onyema’s commitment to national unity and economic integration is reminiscent of Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe’s promotion of Nigeria’s unity as well as nationalism through journalism by establishing newspapers in places like Kano, Zaria, Lagos, Onitsha, Port Harcourt and others and by forging solid friendships with individuals and by building enduring alliances with different groups throughout the nation”.
Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State, according to Commissioner Adinuba, has already called Chief Onyema on the phone to congratulate him on the new route development programme which he described as capital intensive and time consuming, recalling how two aircraft from the Air Peace fleet flew into Anambra International Cargo and Passenger Airport under construction on Friday, April 30, on demonstration flights.
“Governor Obiano”, stated Adinuba, “also thanked the Air Peace chairman for his support for working closely with the Anambra State Government to build a hanger at the state airport for the repair and maintenance of aircraft”, revealing that the airport will be commissioned soon.
He added: “We are also delighted that Air Peace is working hard to see if the Embraer aviation company of Brazil can establish its African service centre in the state.
“There is a lot other wealthy enterpreneurs from our country can learn from Chief Onyema”.
Signed
Commissioner for Information & Public Enlightenment.
PRESS STATEMENT
OGUN Workers:
CDWR Demands Immediate Payments of All Outstanding Salaries and Deductions to Workers and Reinstatement of all Victimised Workers
We Call on NLC and TUC to declare a 48-Hour Warning Strike in support of workers
The Campaign for Democratic and Workers’ Rights (CDWR), Ogun state chapter calls on the state leaderships of both the NLC and TUC to end their criminal silence in the face of increasing attacks on the democratic rights and living conditions of workers and the poor masses in the state by Dapo Abiodun-led APC government.
CDWR condemns in all ramifications the unceasing attacks on workers’ democratic rights and demands the immediate payment of the 17 months unpaid cooperative deductions to workers; reinstatement of all victimized and unjustly sacked workers at TASCE and OOUTH; payment of the outstanding four(4) months salaries and allowances to the lecturers in MAPOLY; acceding to demands of the judiciary workers currently on strike and honouring the agreement voluntarily signed with the union; and the conclusion of all pending promotion exercises; and meeting of all other legitimate demands of workers across the state by the government without delay.
The non-remittance of salary deductions to workers’ cooperative union for 17 months is the latest in the series of unending attacks on democratic rights and the working conditions of workers by the Dapo Abiodun government.
Monthly, workers who are members of the Ogun State Salary Earners’ Co-operative Thrift and Credit Union Limited, save a percentage of their salaries with the union, which the state government is expected to remit to the Co-operative. But the Dapo Abiodun government has refused to remit these monies running into billions of Naira since his assumption of office in 2019 to date!
According to newspaper reports, the cooperative union President, Bodude Tanimola and the General Manager, Sunday Ajayi, said that the refusal of the Dapo Abiodun government to pay the 17 months’ salary deductions to the workers, despite their numerous appeals through letters and emissaries are now hindering them from meeting their responsibilities. These include but are not limited to their inability to pay children school fees, preventing them from accessing loans to augment the miserly monthly salaries by the government; and worst of all, the unwarranted/avoidable deaths of members from common and curable ailments, due to the non-payment of their entitlements. It is instructive to note that the Dapo Abiodun government didn’t inherit any outstanding remittance to the workers cooperative on the assumption of office!
On their part, the state judiciary workers under the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) are presently on strike over the non-payment of salaries and allowances to members and the reneging by the governor on agreements he voluntarily signed with the workers.
Education workers in schools like MAPOLY and TASCE have not fared better. The MAPOLY lecturers are owed four (4) unpaid salaries and allowances while the TASCE workers have NEVER received full salary payments since the inception of this administration. To make the matter worse, the workers are attacked for daring to demand their legitimate rights! These orgies of agony of unpaid salaries and allowances, victimization and sacking of workers who dare to speak up including Aisha Ajibola of the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH) is not just a one-off. Rather, they are the permanent features of the Dapo Abiodun’s government which is fast becoming notorious for attacking the living and working conditions of workers with flagrant disregard to their democratic rights.
Contrary to his flattering and flowery speech at this year’s May Day celebration, wherein he promised to pay all cooperative deductions and meet workers’ demands, it is clear that Governor Dapo Abiodun would not voluntarily pay nor meet workers legitimate demands, unless the workers are themselves prepared to wage determined struggles to force the government.
Therefore, the CDWR is proposing to the state leadership of NLC and TUC to call a joint 48-hour warning strike and peaceful mass protest and begin immediate mass mobilization, as the first step, over the demands and plights of Ogun state workers. These include a halt to the increasing attacks on democratic rights of workers by the Dapo Abiodun-led, the immediate payment of all outstanding salaries and allowances, including cooperative deductions, and the reinstatement of the unjustly sacked workers across the state including TASCE and OOUTH, and other legitimate demands of workers.
We call on pro-labour organisations, trade union activists and socialists to solidarise with Ogun state workers and also support our call on the NLC and TUC to call a warning strike to press home the demands of workers.
The nonchalant attitude of Ogun state government towards the condition, welfare and rights of workers further underscore why trade union leaders organized under NLC and TUC have to reverse their misplaced policy of collaborationism/compromise under the guise of industrial harmony. Rather they should begin to consistently fight for better conditions and improved welfare of workers and also uncompromisingly defend their interests and rights.
SIGNED
Eko John Nicholas
Chairman,
CDWR
Ogun state chapter.
08022634840
17 – 08 – 21
PRESS RELEASE
PDP CRISIS: STOP USING RIVERS MONEY TO DESTROY RIVERS TOP SONS – EZE TELLS WIKE….LEAVE SECONDUS ALONE; PDP GOVERNORS DEFECTED BECAUSE OF YOUR OVERBEARING ATTITUDE…LAUDS PDP BOT, GOVERNORS FOR STANDING AGAINST WIKE AND RESCUING THE PARTY FROM HIS DRACONIAN CLAWS
Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress and erstwhile National Publicity Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (nPDP), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has called out Gov. Nyesom Wike, as the real Jonah onboard the ship of the People’s Democratic Party, absolving the party’s national Chair, Prince Uche Secondus, of any wrong-doing.
In a statement made available to Media Houses in Port Harcourt, the party Chief said there was need to put certain records in proper perspective and inform Nigerians accordingly.
“Categorically, I wish to reiterate that I am neither a fan of Prince Uche Secondus nor a sympathetic observer of the present confused and pitiable state of the PDP, but as a concerned and patriotic Nigerian who has followed and participated in the politics of the party from the fons et origo, I am compelled to put some records straight, particularly as regarding the current rift between Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State and Prince Uche Secondus, the National Chairman of the umbrella party and also a Rivers man.”
According to him, it is remarkably unfortunate to observe that the People’s Democratic Party has continued to be enmeshed in layers of raging crisis that threaten her existence and throw her off the line of reasonably playing the Chief roles of a responsible opposition to the ruling party and government at the center.
Eze regrets the inability of the People’s Democratic Party and her leaders to effectively take up and play the roles of a good opposition party, wondering why the party has totally snubbed her place, retreating to slumberland.
“For those of us in the All Progressives Congress, we need a virile, focus-driven and strong opposition to tackle and checkmate the activities of public servants and constructively tackle the policies and programs of government that seem not to produce good yields to the people. Not only will that put us on check, it will enable the party and government at the centre give out the best to Nigeria and Nigerians.”
Not withstanding the satanic schemes of Uche Secondus who collaborated with others to plunge Rivers state into her current unbefitting state, the party chief said he vividly recalls the all-important and defining role of Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi to the rise of Secondus in national politics.
“Amaechi then as Governor of Rivers State had for very valid reasons, challenged the Peoples Democratic Party, over the Appointment of Secondus as a Deputy National Organising Secretary of the party, describing it as unbefitting. His bold stance resulted to the rise of Secondus as the then National Organising Secretary of the PDP and in appreciation, Secondus exclaimed before an audience during a Thanksgiving Service in Andoni that Amaechi is the “Ogbuagu” (Lion Killer) of Nigeria politics, a title Amaechi vehemently declined on the simple ground that Dr. Peter Odili) goes with the sobriquet and it would be disrespectful for him to go by same title with his own boss.”
When it was time to payback good, Secondus conspired with Wike and others to dismantle the leadership of the party in Rivers State headed then by the late Chief G. U. Ake as Chairman. They installed Brother Felix Obuah, who neither contested the position nor participated in any Congress, as the State Chairman, to replace Chief Ake. All these they did with the overbearing influence of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan and his wife Patience, in a bid to whittle down the influence of Amaechi in the politics of Rivers State.
Eze highlighted that he is very much aware that the bickering and political hustling of both Governor Wike and Prince Secondus are geared towards producing a Northern Presidential candidate for the PDP in the 2023 elections, but however stated that such scheming is unsupported as it remains inimical to the unity and peaceful coexistence of Nigeria.
The APC stalwart expressed angst over Gov. Wike’s planned-forceful takeover of the party noting that billions of Rivers money has been wasted already and more have been earmarked for his takeover bid, all at the detriment of Rivers people whose common patrimony has again earned the Governor another sobriquet, “Father Christmas”.
Although Wike plans to box Secondus out from office by all means and with Rivers money, the Governor has suddenly forgotten that at the time Secondus was the Chairman of Rivers State PDP, he was a mere Local Government Chairman and can never be more politically conscious than the man we all know as Total Chair.
“All these notwithstanding and coupled with the fact that I and Secondus belong to the Open Heaven Parish of RCCG, Old GRA Port Harcourt, I can not be said to be his fan or supporter, however, seeing the dangerous techniques deployed by Governor Nyesom Wike in his plot to rubbish and decimate the impacts of Prince Uche Secondus in the politics of PDP as well as his acts of sabotage against his mentor and benefactor, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, whom he served as Chief of Staff during his reign as Governor of Rivers State, all aimed at ensuring that he (Wike) stands as the only politician in Rivers State, one needs to raise the alarm timeously.”
Today, the major desire of Governor Nyesom Wike in the politics of Rivers State is to ensure that nobody stands politically except him. Those he cannot destroy he cage into what is now addressed as Wike’s Cathedral of spent political forces without any job description but following him to functions and clapping for him. His efforts to destroy the political legacies and personality of Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, is in the public domain and his recent to pull down Secondus is trending.
Nobody is disputing the inputs of Wike in mobilising for the election of Prince Uche Secondus as the National Chairman of PDP but to turn around without waiting for the Convention of PDP, to say he has the power to remove a national officer of a party, is not only undemocratic, selfish and devious, but also unfortunate and unacceptable.
Eze reiterated that Governor Nyesom Wike should desist from deploying the scarce funds of Rivers State to fight, and decimate Rivers Political Leaders, just to curry favour for the advancement of his own political fortune.
Civil Servants in Rivers State are gnashing their teeth, no salary; Pensioners are lamenting, no pension, no gratuity; Business owners are crying their eyes out, the Governor is acquiring business areas and demolishing; market women are counting their loses on daily basis, they cannot afford not to sell on credit because workers are broke and in all these, Father Christmas, POS Africa or whatever name he goes by, cannot just stop lavishing Rivers money on trivial things.
The party Chief however commended the PDP BOT members and Governors for standing against the devious plots to disgrace Secondus out of office as National Chairman and urged them to endeavor to sustain the unity of the party, stressing that the All Progressives Congress is begging for a vibrant and virile opposition to contribute and criticize constructively towards national good.
Speaking on the movement of PDP Governors to the APC, Chief Eze counseled the BOT members and other stakeholders of the party to critically and carefully investigate inwards the root causes of why the Governors and other key members of the party are moving over to APC.
He urged the PDP to beam her light brighter, assuring that they must discover Wike as the root cause of the woes of the party and he has instigated more people to leave the PDP before the end of 2021.
The party can only know peace when Gov. Wike learns how to respect his colleagues and desist from handling issues pertaining to the party as personal, as no one man own the party.
“Let me conclude by quoting one of the Rivers State sound minds and enfant terribles who resides in the United Kingdom, Mr. Kingsley Kem Eben who stated and I quote, “Chief Eze, I pity Wike that he underrated Secondus that the man knows how to play party politics, the only option he has is shouting like a town CRIER whilst Secondus is busy rallying those that matter under him for safety. Wike should be very careful with Secondus otherwise he will end up not having any platform or party for his Rivers Governorship candidate in 2023. It’s unfortunate Rivers Treasury is being wasted to fight and remove our own son to take over PDP. And this present RSHA is the worst representatives that can happen to the state or any state in a democracy. Rivers People are in trouble for the remaining two years not knowing what will be left of our treasury if at all any. God help us.”
Let me conclude finally by urging us all to use our tongue to count our teeth and rally round and save Rivers State come 2023.
Ends
Signed
Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze,
APC Chieftain & former National Publicity Secretary, nPDP
17 – 08– 21
The EFCC Collaborative Strategy
By Erasmus Ikhide
THE scourge of corruption is one of the reasons why Nigeria is not
living up to its ‘Giant of Africa’ Shibboleth and has continued to
crawl on her knees in adult diapers to the chagrin of her countrymen
both at home and in the Diaspora. Since Independence, billions of
dollars has been lost to corruption according to the global
anti-corruption watch dog, Transparency International (TI).
On hindsight, it was commendable of former President Olusegun Obasanjo
to have established the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
(EFCC) in 2003 to effectively tackle graft and corruption. That nearly
twenty year old vision has yielded fruits as the agency is making
sturdy strides in the gargantuan war against the malaise.
Corruption is too huge to be fought alone by the EFCC and we commend
the EFCC for forging strategic partnerships with other agencies in the
country to make corruption minimal. We recall during the heady days of
the sinister apartheid regime in South Africa that the liberation
fighters most notably Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki, Desmond Tutu,
Winnie Mandela etc didn’t take the Boer regime headlong alone.
They sought collaboration among many nations like Nigeria, Ghana,
Zimbabwe, Kenya etc for financial, technical and ideological support.
Many South Africans in exile who were fighting the cause from abroad
successfully lobbied the then Margaret Thatcher led administration to
impose sanctions on the regime of the then Pieter Willem Botha led
government. Mbeki, then based in London played a key role in the
negotiations that led to the release of Mandela from incarceration
after 27 years behind bars. The American War of Independence from
Britain which led to the latter defeating the army of King George III
had the backing of France. Noble causes are never fought alone. This
piece will critically examine how the EFCC has partnered with Nigerian
agencies to wage war against the hydra headed monster of corruption.
The EFCC has gone into a partnership with the Nigerian Content
Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) in 2020 for speedy
investigation of infractions committed by oil companies in Nigeria.
This is a step in the right direction as the oil sector – the goose
that lays the golden egg for the Nigerian economy is bedeviled by many
irregularities allegedly committed by the big players in it especially
the International Oil Companies (IOC’s). Popular businessman and
politician, Barrister Jimoh Ibrahim told the world that he made his
fortune as a tax consultant to the Federal Government by ensuring the
government got billions of dollars in taxes from the IOC’s. Nigerians
deserve a better deal from the black gold and this partnership is
designed to bring home the bacon to the doorsteps of Nigerians.
In 2021, the EFCC and the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency
Initiative (NEITI) have gone into a partnership to ensure that the
revenues due to the government in the oil and gas sector is remitted
to the government and to also fight corruption in the sector. The
Vanguard Newspaper on April 23, reported that the EFCC Helmsman,
Abdulrasheed Bawa was quoted to have said when he received the NEITI
Boss at the EFCC’s Headquarters in Jabi Abuja where he said “We have
developed expertise in oil and gas investigation. We did oil subsidy
investigation, we did oil swap investigation, we did OML and OPL
investigations, which came with billions of naira recovered. We can
work together to ensure that what rightly belongs to Nigeria is ours”.
He urged the Agency to take advantage of the Extractive Industries
Fraud Section of the Commission, which was created exclusively to
tackle fraud in the extractive sector.
“In 2012, the EFCC set up a special team for petroleum subsidy which I
was part of, and at the end of our assignment, it was changed into a
permanent section in the EFCC. It was changed from special team for
petroleum subsidy to Extractive Industry Fraud Section, and the EFCC
did not stop at that. We ensured that every Zone of the Commission
have that section.”
The Thisday Newspapers reported on December 16, 2020 that the EFCC and
the Department for State Services(DSS) have partnered to effectively
tackle graft in Nigeria. A statement issued by EFCC said the Ilorin
Zonal Head of the EFCC, Oseni Oluwasina Kazeem, made the disclosure
Tuesday while playing host to the State Director, DSS, Patrick
Ikenweine, at the commission’s office in Ilorin.
Kazeem, who decried the rate at which corruption had permeated every
sector of Nigeria system noted that the cankerworm could only be tamed
through collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, including the DSS.
He commended the DSS for being a good partner in the fight and called
for more robust working relationship between the two agencies.
Earlier, the Director DSS, Ikenweine stated the essence of his visit
which he said was to familiarise with critical stakeholders in the
State.
“I’m here to familiarise with you in a bid towards building on the
existing cordial relationship with your agency.
“The DSS and EFCC have a record of good working relationship, which I
hope should be sustained,” he said.
The EFCC and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) went into a
partnership during the Chairmanship of Babatunde Fowler to fight tax
evasion in the country. This collaboration, according to the FIRS
Executive Chairman, Tunde Fowler, will ensure Nigeria’s financial
security and independence, which he said are key to national
development.
Fowler made this known in Abuja at the opening of International
Conference and Capacity Building Workshop on the Use of Beneficial
Ownership Information and The Recovery of Assets in Africa. He
beckoned on Nigerians and the international community to collaborate
in the fight against “any illegality”.
“Corruption is anything illegal. Whether it is money laundering, tax
fraud, tax evasion or other illegalities. We must collaborate to fight
them. When you are fighting corruption, you are taking back from the
corrupt people, what they erroneously think belongs to them. That is
why they resist the fight against corruption”, Fowler said.
The EFCC and the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Development
Initiative (PAGMI) on August 3, 2021 reiterated the need for
continuous education and enlightenment of artisanal gold miners and
gold sellers in view of their vulnerability in being used to
perpetrate sinister acts of money laundering.
A few days ago the EFCC encouraged the members of the National Youth
Service Corps (NYSC) to embrace financial crimes in the country. “Add
your voice to mine, because the fight against economic and financial
crimes involves you and I. I will play my part, you will play yours.”
The EFCC chairman stated this in a sensitization lecture on the Role
of Youth in Curbing Cybercrimes presented on his behalf by officials
of the Commission at various Orientation camps of the Batch B stream 1
set of corps members.
“Embrace hard work and shun crime, Yahoo-Yahoo is not a sustainable
way of life. As dynamic young men and women, our desire is to harness
your intelligence and energy for greater public good in your areas of
primary assignments”, Mr. Bawa said.
The EFCC is extremely pragmatic in its strategic partnerships with
other Nigerian agencies as they cannot win the anti-corruption war
alone. We urge the EFCC to forge more partnerships especially with the
media, religious bodies and the Civil Rights groups as the
collaborative efforts will greatly reduce the scourge of graft and set
Nigeria on the path to greatness which may dwarf the achievements of
the Asian Tigers.
Ikhide writes from Lagos, Nigeria
On behalf of my Family and entire peoples Democratic Party (PDP) South West state, I join other well-wishers to felicitate with Alhaji Adebisi Olopoeyan on his 60th birthday anniversary.
I applaud your unalloyed dedication and commitment to the growth of our dear party PDP.
I pray that the almighty Allah shall continue to grant you the gift of good health for even greater benefits to the state and humanity.
I wish you happy returns and a hearty celebration today.
Ambassador Taofeek Oladejo Arapaja
National Vice Chairman SW
People’s Democratic Party
Business mogul, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, on Monday described former governor of Delta State, Chief James Onanefe Ibori as a colossus, true patriot and political go-getter.
In a congratulatory message to Ibori on the occasion of his 63rd birthday, Uduaghan praised the former governor for his enormous contributions and achievements.
‘’Chief James Onanefe Ibori faithfully and diligently served the good people of Delta State, cast aside all forms of tribalism and delivered the dividends of democracy to them’’.
Uduaghan who is also the Alema of Warri Kingdom and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Webster Group of Companies hailed Ibori for touching the lives of many Nigerians, shaping the future of his people, encouraging broad participation in governance and lifting Delta State to unprecedented relevance.
He commended the ex-governor for implementing the bottom-top philosophy, institutionalizing due process and sustaining peace in Delta State through the gospel of peaceful co-existence, good neighbourliness and unity amongst all’’
‘’Chief James Ibori carried traditional rulers along in sustaining peace, through periodic meetings. He created an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive. He brought development and transformation to the geo-political entity called Delta State through Operation 2000 Projects’’ Uduaghan said.
The Warri High Chief applauded Ibori for excelling in development issues and relationship with his deputy, paying bursary allowances to students of tertiary institutions, curbing unemployment, youth restiveness and ethnic crisis in Delta State.
‘’Chief James Ibori promoted peace, harmony and development in the Niger Delta. He campaigned for the diversification of the nation’s economy, power shift, resource control and derivation as well as enthronement of equity and justice in a restructured Nigerian polity where true federalism reigns. He also campaigned for decentralization of policing and security responsibilities of government’’.
The Warri Chief emphasized other achievements of the former governor.
‘’Chief James Ibori built bridges of friendship and understanding among Nigerians. He demonstrated that leadership is not a function of tribe but a matter of vision, determination and mission. He also recorded successes in security, job creation, human resources capacity building, gender and youth empowerment, environmental sustainability and remediation, fiscal discipline and budgetary reforms’’.
Uduaghan also underscored Ibori’s role in the training of Deltans in local and foreign universities.
‘’Chief James Ibori did well in transportation, healthcare delivery, water supply, basic and higher education, rural electrification, sports, ICT, agriculture and housing. He provided better roads, built bridges, facilitated the training of Deltans in local and foreign universities and provided selfless service to mankind’’
The Alema of Warri extolled the former governor’s exemplary dedication to service and his leadership qualities.
‘’As a responsible governor, the relationship between the Executive and the Legislature was a model in terms of peaceful co-existence, separation of powers and checks and balances. The judiciary also enjoyed tremendous support and co-operation from the Executive. Indeed, Ibori exceeded the expectations of the founding fathers of Delta State through visionary, exemplary and transformational leadership’’.
Ending the message, Uduaghan said ‘’I wish you good health, long life and God’s continued protection’’.
President Muhammadu Buhari has signed the Petroleum Industry Bill 2021 into law.
Working from home in five days quarantine as required by the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19 after returning from London on Friday August 13, the President assented to the Bill Monday August 16, in his determination to fulfill his constitutional duty.
The ceremonial part of the new legislation will be done on Wednesday, after the days of mandatory isolation would have been fulfilled.
The Petroleum Industry Act provides legal, governance, regulatory and fiscal framework for the Nigerian petroleum industry, the development of host communities, and related matters.
The Senate had passed the Bill on July 15, 2021, while the House of Representatives did same on July 16, thus ending a long wait since early 2000s, and notching another high for the Buhari administration.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
August 16, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS FORMER PRESIDENT, GEN. IBRAHIM BADAMASI BABANGIDA AT 80
President Muhammadu Buhari sends birthday greetings to former President Ibrahim Babangida, wishing him a “long and healthy life”, as he marks his 80th birthday.
President Buhari notes that as former military commanders during the war, both retiring as Generals, they have mutual interests, great hopes and expectations in a strong and united Nigeria.
President Buhari expresses hope that privileged Nigerians like President Babangida and others like himself will recommit to ongoing efforts to help the nation to reach more glory, progress, and prosperity.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 16, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT-ELECT OF ZAMBIA
President Muhammadu Buhari congratulates the President-elect of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema, on his victory in the presidential election of August 12, 2021.
The President applauds the people of Zambia who came out in their numbers to exercise their civic rights, voting candidates of their choice, signposting that the prospect of a united, stable and prosperous Africa lies in the power of the people to freely elect their leaders.
President Buhari commends President Edgar Lungu for accepting the outcome of the election and a peaceful transfer of power, noting that this patriotic disposition deserves the praise of all lovers of democracy.
Highlighting the close and historic relationship between Nigeria and Zambia, the Nigerian leader looks forward to working very closely with the Zambian President-elect for the peace, development and prosperity of both nations, and in the common commitment to promote the goals and objectives of our African Union (AU).
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 16, 2021
AMCON Gives Undertaking To Court On NICON
Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) on Monday in a federal High Court sitting in Abuja gave an undertaking not take any further steps in respect of NICON Insurance and the Nigeria Re.
This was made known to newsmen by Barrister Jimoh Ibrahim on Monday.
The attorney to AMCON told the court that the issuance of form 48 deversitated The corporation when it was received.
According to the attorney, everyone started running up and down.
The court, therefore, declined the prayer of AMCON to set aside Form 48 that was issued for committer to prison on notice of disobedience of court order.
Also, the court held that the order stayed and subsequently accepted the undertaking from AMCON that it would obey the court order and would not do anything to the contrary.
Jimoh Ibrahim had dragged AMCON to court challenging its plan to constitute management of the two corporate organizations.
The court, however, adjoined the matter till September 8, 2021.
Press Statement
RIWAMA Sole Administrator, Bro Obuah Rejoices With Former Governor Odili @ 73
…Says He’s Patriotic, Exemplary Nigerian
As former Rivers State Governor, Sir Dr. Peter Odili marked his birthday anniversary Sunday, August 15, 2021, the Sole Administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency, RIWAMA, Bro Felix Obuah joined well-meaning friends and fans from across the globe to celebrate an accomplished leader whose landmark achievements and contributions to the development of the State remain a reference point in the history of the State.
Bro Obuah while thanking God over the weekend for the life of Dr Odili, described him as a patriotic, exemplary and selfless leader who has dedicated all his life in service to humanity and God.
Bro Obuah who has remained an ardent supporter and admirer of the former Governor, said he is proud of associating with Dr. Odili and family and has always believed in his philosophy of giving to the society, particularly the down-trodden.
He noted that Dr. Odili’s 73rd birthday anniversary was an exciting event, following his exceptional contributions to the development of Rivers State and Nigeria as well as his support for the Nyesom Wike administration.
Describing him as a dependable pillar, trustworthy leader and farther, Bro Obuah thanked God for the life and services of Dr. Odili, stating that the State and Nigeria have benefited immensely from his fatherly advice and prayed God to continue to give him good health, wisdom and keep him for Rivers people to continue to tap from his wealth of experience and service to humanity, which he joyfully offers.
Jerry Needam
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to
Bro. Felix Obuah, Sole Administrator,
Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA).
Monday, August 16, 2021.
“The Award to Julius Berger is a well-deserved recognition for the company’s patriotism and loyalty to the ideals setting up TETFund.”
– Kashim Imam, Chairman of TETFund’s Board of Trustees
The Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFund, Thursday in Lagos honoured Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. with an ‘Award of Merit’ for being “The top Tax payer organisation in Nigeria’s Construction Sector”.
The event was the 3rd Edition of TETFund’s Tax Payers Forum held at the five-star Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island and had in attendance the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu ably represented by his deputy, Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat.
In hi
s welcome address, the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Prof. Suleiman Elias Bagoro, said inter alia, “…in trying to fulfil its constitutional roles, TETFund identified the critical mass of tax payers, especially the top ones. We then came here to appreciate these key tax payers, particularly the ones receiving Awards of Merit today….the 2% education tax is annually remitted by companies through the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, to TETFund for allocation and onward disbursement to beneficiary institutions of higher learning across the country,” Bagoro added.
Lagos state deputy Governor reinforced the Executive Secretary, Bagoro’s voice saying that the event was TETFund’s own way of “encouraging the trust of tax payers” even as he urged the organisation to do more to attract more taxpayers in fulfilment of the amended Act No. 16 of 2011 that established the Fund.
The Chairman of TETFund’s Board of Trustees who presented the award to Julius Berger, declared the award as “a well-deserved recognition for the company’s patriotism and loyalty to the ideals setting up TETFund.” He also encouragingly said that, “companies so recognised must not relent in continuing the great job they are doing with their compliant tax remittances.”
Speaking after he received the Award on behalf of Julius Berger, the head of the company’s Tax Department, Muniru Haruna, remarked that, “…we feel honoured by TETFund’s recognition of Julius Berger as one of the most consistently compliant and, in fact, highest tax payer in the country’s construction sector. At Julius Berger, we seriously honour our tax obligations as a patriotic duty. We thank and appreciate TETFund for acknowledging our long standing commitment and compliance by this award”. Officials from the Media Relations Office of Julius Berger Plc also attended the event in Lagos.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Vice Chancellor of University of Lago, Prof. Oluwatoyin T. Ogundipe who delivered the keynote address; co-founder of EKO Hospital, Olorogun Sunny Kuku who represented the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu; and representatives of the Senate and House of Representatives respective Committees on Education and TETFun
President Muhammadu Buhari lauds one of the pioneer pilots in Nigerian aviation, Captain Rufus Adetunji Orimoloye, who has taken his ‘last flight,’ aged 89.
The President salutes the many decades of commitment to the aviation sector by the departed, who trained as a pilot between 1954 and 1956 in the United Kingdom, and then returned home to ply his trade, first with West African Airways, and later Nigerian Airways for 26 years.
President Buhari recalls that Captain Orimoloye flew with the Presidential Fleet, and was also Chief Flight Instructor and Director at Zaria Flight School between 1986 and 1988.
He says the contributions of the departed will remain evergreen in the annals of the aviation industry in the country, a fact already attested to by his being bestowed with the MFR National Honour in 2009, and also the 50th Anniversary Award of International Civil Aviation Organization(ICAO).
The President prays that the Odofin Ayedun of Akure will rest well, while seeking God’s comfort for all those who mourn him.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
August 15, 2021
Uduaghan extols Ibori’s leadership qualities
Business mogul, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, on Monday described former governor of Delta State, Chief James Onanefe Ibori as a colossus, true patriot and political go-getter.
In a congratulatory message to Ibori on the occasion of his 63rd birthday, Uduaghan praised the former governor for his enormous contributions and achievements.
‘’Chief James Onanefe Ibori faithfully and diligently served the good people of Delta State, cast aside all forms of tribalism and delivered the dividends of democracy to them’’.
Uduaghan who is also the Alema of Warri Kingdom and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Webster Group of Companies hailed Ibori for touching the lives of many Nigerians, shaping the future of his people, encouraging broad participation in governance and lifting Delta State to unprecedented relevance.
He commended the ex-governor for implementing the bottom-top philosophy, institutionalizing due process and sustaining peace in Delta State through the gospel of peaceful co-existence, good neighbourliness and unity amongst all’’
‘’Chief James Ibori carried traditional rulers along in sustaining peace, through periodic meetings. He created an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive. He brought development and transformation to the geo-political entity called Delta State through Operation 2000 Projects’’ Uduaghan said.
The Warri High Chief applauded Ibori for excelling in development issues and relationship with his deputy, paying bursary allowances to students of tertiary institutions, curbing unemployment, youth restiveness and ethnic crisis in Delta State.
‘’Chief James Ibori promoted peace, harmony and development in the Niger Delta. He campaigned for the diversification of the nation’s economy, power shift, resource control and derivation as well as enthronement of equity and justice in a restructured Nigerian polity where true federalism reigns. He also campaigned for decentralization of policing and security responsibilities of government’’.
The Warri Chief emphasized other achievements of the former governor.
‘’Chief James Ibori built bridges of friendship and understanding among Nigerians. He demonstrated that leadership is not a function of tribe but a matter of vision, determination and mission. He also recorded successes in security, job creation, human resources capacity building, gender and youth empowerment, environmental sustainability and remediation, fiscal discipline and budgetary reforms’’.
Uduaghan also underscored Ibori’s role in the training of Deltans in local and foreign universities.
‘’Chief James Ibori did well in transportation, healthcare delivery, water supply, basic and higher education, rural electrification, sports, ICT, agriculture and housing. He provided better roads, built bridges, facilitated the training of Deltans in local and foreign universities and provided selfless service to mankind’’
The Alema of Warri extolled the former governor’s exemplary dedication to service and his leadership qualities.
‘’As a responsible governor, the relationship between the Executive and the Legislature was a model in terms of peaceful co-existence, separation of powers and checks and balances. The judiciary also enjoyed tremendous support and co-operation from the Executive. Indeed, Ibori exceeded the expectations of the founding fathers of Delta State through visionary, exemplary and transformational leadership’’.
Ending the message, Uduaghan said ‘’I wish you good health, long life and God’s continued protection’’.
Business mogul, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, on Monday described former governor of Delta State, Chief James Onanefe Ibori as a colossus, true patriot and political go-getter.
In a congratulatory message to Ibori on the occasion of his 63rd birthday, Uduaghan praised the former governor for his enormous contributions and achievements.
‘’Chief James Onanefe Ibori faithfully and diligently served the good people of Delta State, cast aside all forms of tribalism and delivered the dividends of democracy to them’’.
Uduaghan who is also the Alema of Warri Kingdom and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Webster Group of Companies hailed Ibori for touching the lives of many Nigerians, shaping the future of his people, encouraging broad participation in governance and lifting Delta State to unprecedented relevance.
He commended the ex-governor for implementing the bottom-top philosophy, institutionalizing due process and sustaining peace in Delta State through the gospel of peaceful co-existence, good neighbourliness and unity amongst all’’
‘’Chief James Ibori carried traditional rulers along in sustaining peace, through periodic meetings. He created an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive. He brought development and transformation to the geo-political entity called Delta State through Operation 2000 Projects’’ Uduaghan said.
The Warri High Chief applauded Ibori for excelling in development issues and relationship with his deputy, paying bursary allowances to students of tertiary institutions, curbing unemployment, youth restiveness and ethnic crisis in Delta State.
‘’Chief James Ibori promoted peace, harmony and development in the Niger Delta. He campaigned for the diversification of the nation’s economy, power shift, resource control and derivation as well as enthronement of equity and justice in a restructured Nigerian polity where true federalism reigns. He also campaigned for decentralization of policing and security responsibilities of government’’.
The Warri Chief emphasized other achievements of the former governor.
‘’Chief James Ibori built bridges of friendship and understanding among Nigerians. He demonstrated that leadership is not a function of tribe but a matter of vision, determination and mission. He also recorded successes in security, job creation, human resources capacity building, gender and youth empowerment, environmental sustainability and remediation, fiscal discipline and budgetary reforms’’.
Uduaghan also underscored Ibori’s role in the training of Deltans in local and foreign universities.
‘’Chief James Ibori did well in transportation, healthcare delivery, water supply, basic and higher education, rural electrification, sports, ICT, agriculture and housing. He provided better roads, built bridges, facilitated the training of Deltans in local and foreign universities and provided selfless service to mankind’’
The Alema of Warri extolled the former governor’s exemplary dedication to service and his leadership qualities.
‘’As a responsible governor, the relationship between the Executive and the Legislature was a model in terms of peaceful co-existence, separation of powers and checks and balances. The judiciary also enjoyed tremendous support and co-operation from the Executive. Indeed, Ibori exceeded the expectations of the founding fathers of Delta State through visionary, exemplary and transformational leadership’’.
Ending the message, Uduaghan said ‘’I wish you good health, long life and God’s continued protection’’.
‘Ada Owere Honour Results from My Modest Achievements’ – Ondo First Lady
Wife of Ondo State Governor, Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has attributed her installation as Ada Owere I to her modest accomplishments.
The First Lady said this in her address during the Ada Owere Chieftaincy conferment at Graceland Event Arena, Owerri, Imo state.
“The honour bestowed on me today is in recognition of the modest achievements that I have recorded in my ancestral home of Emeabiam in Owerri West Local government Area, Ondo State and Nigeria at large.
“The achievements include but not limited to founding of the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN) which is a leading NGO that galvanizes actions against breast cancer through public education, patients support, advocacy and Research for which I was nominated in 2014 as a scholar of the American Cancer Society, alongside award of recognition in 2018 by Harvard University,USA and a recognition in 2019 by the University of Heildelberg, Germany.”
Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu was installed as Ada Owere I by Ndi-Eze Owerri Federal Constituency, comprising of forty-three communities in Owerri West, Owerri North and Owerri Municipal Local Government Areas of Imo State.
Mrs Akeredolu who described the occasion as historic in many respects, said her achievements include the deployment of the instrumentality of Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu Foundation (BAAF) as a platform to advance family values, societal and educational development by promotion of literacy in children through programmes such as ‘Reading is Fun’, Essay and Spelling Bee Competitions.
Other achievements, in the words of the First Lady, include constructive engagements with the government with the goal to ensure that the people of Owerri Zone are not marginalized in appointments and development projects.
The First Lady also attributed her successes to the quality of training she was given by her parents, saying: ‘my parents gave her wings to fly.’ She pledged to multiply the reason for which she was honoured.
“I am receiving this honour in loving memory of my parents, Chief BUB Anyanwu and Nneoma Dora Anyanwu, gave her wings to fly. I will, with the help of my husband and well-meaning Nigerians, ensure that the reason that informed your decision to honour me today will multiply in no distant time.”
Dignitaries at the event include the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, the Deputy, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and Wife, Mrs Esther Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Catherine Oladunni Odu, Chief of Staff to Governor Akeredolu, Mr Olugbenga Ale, Chief Jimoh Ibrahim, CFR, Barrister Olusola Oke, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Ade Adetimehin, and Mr Jimmy Odimayo.
Others are Prince Eze Madumere, Former Deputy Governor of Imo State, HRM, Eze David Akujobi Osuagwu, Chairman, Imo Traditional Institutions of Owerri Zone, Rt. Rev’d Chukwuma C. Oparah, Anglican Bishop of Owerri Diocese, among other dignitaries.
PRESIDENCY STRONGLY CONDEMNS HOODLUM ATTACKS ON TRAVELLERS
The Presidency condemns the attack earlier Saturday on travellers from a religious event in Bauchi, passing through Jos, the Plateau State Capital and regrets the reported deaths of at least twenty-two persons with several others injured in that ambush on their travelling party.
It is widely known that Plateau State has been one of the states affected by herder-farmer clashes, which have, in a significant way, been curtailed following the intense peace-building efforts of the administration of Governor Simon Lalong.
However, to be clear, this is not an agriculturalist-on-pastoralist confrontation – but rather a direct, brazen and wickedly motivated attack on members of a community exercising their rights to travel freely and to follow the faith of their choosing.
With the evident preparedness of their attackers, it is clear this was a well-conceived and prearranged assault on a known target, location and religious persuasion of the travellers not an opportunist ambush.
The Presidency offers condolences to the families of the victims and continues to liaise closely with the local authorities – including security, the police, and governmental agencies.
These kinds of attacks on our country’s citizens are unacceptable, heinous, and stand in complete contradiction to the teachings of the great religions of our nation.
The Presidency stands steadfast with both Christians and Muslims at this time in condemnation of this latest attack and expects and insists that justice is swiftly – but fairly – delivered to the perpetrators.
“Make no mistake about it: in line with my commitment to protect all Nigerians, I have ordered our security agencies to fish out the perpetrators of this gruesome massacre of innocent travellers and bring them to justice,” President Buhari said.
As the facts of the sad incident continue to unfold, the Presidency commends the ongoing efforts by the Governors of Plateau, Bauchi, and Ondo; the Sultan of Sokoto His Eminence Sa’ad Abubakar III and Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi as well as a number of notable Christian and Muslim leaders as they intensify efforts to calm down the situation.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 14, 2021
Redirect N4.8bn to monitor WhatsApp calls to pay doctors’ salaries, SERAP tells Buhari
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari “to urgently redirect the proposed spending of N4.8bn of public money to monitor WhatsApp messages, phone calls, and text messages of Nigerians and other people, to pay some of the salaries of striking resident doctors, improve their benefits, as well as improve public healthcare facilities for the sake of poor Nigerians who rely on those facilities, and have nowhere else to turn.”
SERAP said: “We also urge you to send to the National Assembly a fresh supplementary appropriation bill, which reflects the redirected budget, for its approval.”
In the open letter dated 14 August, 2021, and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization said: “Redirecting the proposed spending of N4.8bn would be entirely consistent with your constitutional oath of office, and the letter and spirit of the Nigerian Constitution of 1999 [as amended], as it would promote efficient, honest, and legal spending of public money.”
According to SERAP, “Redirecting the proposed spending of N4.8bn would also remove the threats to fundamental human rights of Nigerians, and ensure access to quality healthcare for the socially and economically vulnerable people who rely on public hospitals, and have no opportunity for medical treatment elsewhere.”
The letter, read in part: “Any appropriation law ought to comply with the Nigerian Constitution and the country’s international human rights obligations and commitments.”
“The constitutional oath of office implicitly provides some safeguards on the appropriation and spending of public funds, and imposes a legally binding obligation on public officers to preserve the public money, and not to disburse it except conformably to the Constitution.”
“SERAP believes that any proposed spending of public funds should stay within the limits of constitutional responsibilities, and oath of office by public officers, as well as comply with Chapter 2 of the Nigerian Constitution relating to fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy.”
“The mere threat of mass surveillance, even when secret, coupled with the lack of remedy, can constitute an interference with human rights, including the rights to privacy, freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association.”
“The proposed spending of N4.8bn of public funds as contained in the Supplementary Appropriation Act, which you signed last month would give rise to serious violations of the human rights of Nigerians and other people, as it would grant free rein to government agencies to conduct mass surveillance of communications of people.”
“The proposed spending also fails to meet the requirements of public interests, legality, necessity, and proportionality. Additionally, the lack of any safeguards against discriminatory decision-making, and access to an effective remedy shows the grave threats it poses to constitutionally and internationally recognized human rights.”
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within seven days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”
“SERAP is concerned that the proposed spending to monitor WhatsApp messages, phone calls, and text messages of Nigerians and other people is inconsistent and incompatible with the Nigerian Constitution and the country’s international human rights obligations.”
“Specifically, Section 37 of the Nigerian Constitution, and Article 17 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which the country is a state party provide for the right to freedom from arbitrary or unlawful interference with privacy and correspondence, communications and private data.”
“Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution and Article 19 of the Covenant also protect everyone’s right to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers and through any media.”
“SERAP wishes to stress your government’s obligations under article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and article 13 of the UN Convention against Corruption both of which Nigeria has ratified.”
“Similarly, the UN General Assembly has condemned unlawful or arbitrary surveillance and interception of communications as ‘highly intrusive acts’ that interfere with fundamental human rights (see General Assembly resolutions 68/167 and 71/199).”
“SERAP is concerned that the powers to conduct arbitrary, abusive or unlawful surveillance of communications may also be used to target political figures and activists, journalists and others in the discharge of their lawful activities, especially given the growing repression of civic space, suspension of Twitter, and attacks on freedom of expression and media freedom in the country.”
“Privacy and expression are intertwined in the digital age, with online privacy serving as a gateway to secure exercise of the freedom of opinion and expression. Therefore, targets of surveillance would suffer interference with their rights to privacy and freedom of opinion and expression whether the effort to monitor is successful or not.”
“Interference with privacy through targeted surveillance is designed to repress the exercise of the right to freedom of expression.”
“Surveillance of journalists, activists, opposition figures, critics and others simply exercising their right to freedom of expression – would lead to violations of other human rights such as the rights to liberty and freedom from torture and other ill-treatment.”
“Targeted surveillance creates incentives for self-censorship and directly undermines the ability of journalists and human rights defenders to conduct investigations and build and maintain relationships with sources of information.”
“SERAP is concerned about the failure by your government to resolve the strike by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) over pay, insurance benefits and poor facilities, and its effects on poor Nigerians, especially as the country faces a third wave of coronavirus.”
“According to our information, in July, 2021, you reportedly signed the 2021 supplementary appropriation bill of N983 billion into law. Of the amount, N4.8bn (N4,870,350,000) was allocated to the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) to monitor WhatsApp messages, phone calls, and text messages of Nigerians and other people.”
“Of the figure, N1.93 billion was earmarked for ‘WhatsApp Intercept Solution’ and N2.93 billion for ‘Thuraya Interception Solution’ – a communications system used for monitoring voice calls or call-related information, SMS, data traffic, among others.”
The letter was copied to Mr Abukabar Malami, SAN, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice; and Mrs Zainab Ahmed Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning.
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
15/8/2021
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
Dr. Abiola Oshodi Wishes Tinubu Quick Recovery
The Canada-based medical practitioner and philanthropist, Dr. Abiola Oshodi has sent a get-well message to the National Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The founder of Dr Abiola Oshodi Foundation, who is one of the ardent diaspora supporter of Tinubu’s presidential ambition, said in a statement that special prayer was organised for the political leader in Canada amongst the BAT faithfuls , as Tinubu travelled to London for medical check up.
Dr Abiola Oshodi said the former Governor of Lagos State is an invaluable asset to the nation and that Nigerians were looking up to him to fix the nation’s socio-economic and political challenges being currently faced by the country.
He noted that the meteoric developments taking place in Lagos State was the brain child of the APC national leader.
According to him, “We in the diaspora are supporting Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to be the next president of Nigeria because of his wealth of experience in governance , capacity, eagle eye ability to spot and develop young talents and his legendary political management skills .
“A cursory look at what is happening in Lagos State would give anyone who knew what the state was before Tinubu became the governor of the state.
“He indentified and assembled like minds to redesign the state and came up with first-class economic plan for the state which has turned around the state’s fortune.
“It is the template he designed that subsequent governors have been implementing.
“So, we want him to bring to bear that same strategy in the management of the federation’s affairs.
“This would bring an end to the Insecurity, economic downturn amd other social ill being experienced in the country and in addition to reuniting all the ethnic nationals in the country.
“I wish him quick recovery.”
Dr. Oshodi has empowered different underprivileged including women and youths through presentation of cash gifts and working tools, and various forms of empowerment.
CVR: Delta Govt charges appointees to relocate to constituencies
August 10, 2021
Delta Government on Monday charged all its political appointees to relocate to their constituencies to mobilise and sensitize eligible voters to register in the ongoing voters registration exercise.
The State Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, who briefed newsmen on the position of the government, had earlier met with the officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in his office in Asaba.
Aniagwu said that the action would enable a political millage in the state chapter of the party to entrench electoral integrity and capture eligible voters who had crossed 18 years.
He also said that the state-owned media outfits had been directed to grant free-to-air on the ongoing voters registration.
He said that the state with a population figure of over five million people had not availed themselves of the opportune speed of the exercise.
“It is our duty as a government to mobilise our people for registration for future elections in the state.
“INEC alone may not have what it takes. We have directed all political aides to return to the local government areas, and our media establishment, including the Directorate of Orientation, to offer free publicity to INEC for the registration exercise,” he said.
The commissioner, however, berated the Senators and members of the House of Representatives who voted against the controversial electronic transmission of election results.
“INEC is all about Nigeria and not PDP, All Progressive Congress (APC) or any other political party, transmission of election results should be based on integrity of the body polity.
“Electronic transmission of election results should be a Nigerian thing, aimed at entrenching transparency.
“Anybody who is using GSM, listening to radio and watching Television, to transmit information and he is against electoral transmission is an enemy of the country; He or she has something to hide,” Aniagwu said.
Delta Governor, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has expressed sadness on the passing of Chief Dennis Omovie, a former member of the state’s House of Assembly.
Omovie, who is the Unuevworo (Traditional Prime Minister of Ugboroke), reportedly died on Tuesday night at a hospital in Warri, after a brief illness.
Until his death, the four-time member of the Parliament was the Director-General, Delta State Public and Private Properties Protection Agency.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, on Wednesday in Asaba, Okowa commiserated with the people of Warri South and Uvwie Local Government Areas and Ugboroke community in particular, over the demise of the grassroots politician and community leader.
According to the governor, the deceased was a thoroughbred politician, who was very popular among his people, accounting for the reason he contested and won elections to represent them in the state assembly for four consecutive terms.
He said, “on behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn the passing of a gentleman and grassroots politician, Hon. Dennis Omovie, who passed on in Warri on Tuesday.
“The news of his passing was a terrible shock to me and the entire state. He was a gentleman-politician, and he distinguished himself in the service of his people and the state.
“As a member of the State Assembly, he chaired the Committees on Public Petition, Legal and Judicial Matters as well as Public Accounts, and he served diligently.
“My condolences go to the family, especially his wife, Justice Mabel Omovie of the State High Court, Asaba.”
Okowa prayed God to grant fortitude to those who mourn his demise and grant the deceased’s soul eternal rest.
Delta expands Warri-Uvwie storm drainage project
The Delta State Executive Council on Thursday, approved the extension of Warri-Uvwie Storm Drainage project to ensure proper and enduring control of flood in the area when completed.
The extension, according to the Commissioner for Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, consists of flood control works in Ugbuwangue community in Warri South Local Government Area and additional 15 work sites in phases I and II of the drainage project, bringing the sites to 76.
Aniagwu, who briefed newsmen on the outcome of the council meeting presided over by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in Asaba, said that decisions reached on project and other issues at the meeting, were targeted at measures that would entrench and deepen the Stronger Delta agenda of the administration.
The commissioner, in company with the Director-General, Warri-Uvwie and Environs Development Agency, Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, said other projects, including the Advanced Diagnostic Centre and the Mother and Child Medical Centre, Owa-Alero, had been earmarked for immediate completion.
He said that the council approved additional works and procurement that would make the medical centre a world-class facility, adding that the Ministry of Health had been directed to ensure that work on the facility was fast-tracked.
He disclosed that the government also approved the appointment of Isaac Ajawhobu as the Odiologbo of Onogbokor Kingdom in Ndokwa East Local Government Area.
Aniagwu further stated that adjustments for the state’s participation in Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Anchor Borrowers Programme to get more Deltans to key into the agricultural programmes were also approved by the council.
On his part, Macaulay recalled that the initial contract for the Warri and Uvwie flood control projects was awarded in January. 2020, but that progress of work was stalled by COVID-19 pandemic which set in and caused a lockdown.
“I am happy to report that CCECC, the contractor, has achieved 50 per cent of the initial contract while Levante has achieved a little over 40 per cent on its part, and the people of the areas are happy.
“I can tell you that if you go to Warri now, there are lots of the areas where we have already worked on and the people are very happy because there is no more flooding.
“The flooding in Enerhen Road and Enerhen Junction is now a thing of the past because the whole area has been taken care of,” he said.
Macaulay disclosed that with the increase of work sites on the storm drainage projects from initial 61 to 76 caused a corresponding increase of the contract value by N4.5 billion from the original sum of N9.5 billion, explaining that the increase was necessitated by some developments in the area.
“The whole of Ugbuwangue community is under water and the government at today’s meeting has also approved that the area should be taken care of,” he added.
Stronger Delta: Okowa seeks patience, cooperation of Deltans
Delta Governor, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, on Friday commended Deltans for their cooperation with his administration, especially with the prevailing insecurity and economic challenges confronting families across the country.
Okowa gave the commendation in Asaba while swearing-in Professor Sylvester Monye as Senior Policy Adviser.
He said that Monye, who had served as his adviser since 2015, had made remarkable contributions to the success of his administration’s programmes and policies and urged him to see his re-appointment as a challenge for greater service.
The governor said that with the cooperation of the people, his administration would continue to improve on its programmes, particularly the entrepreneurial development schemes.
“I congratulate you on your reappointment and I am glad that you truly understand the programmes of this administration. Returning to your former office shows that you already know what to do.
“You have done quite a lot for this administration and it is my hope that you continue to strengthen our work both in the office and externally so that together we will be able to finish strong in the promises that we have made to our people,” he said.
Okowa remarked that there were lots of challenges facing the country, which needed superior thinking to navigate through.
According to him, there is quite a lot to be done but the finances are dwindling and there are lots of challenges of insecurity out there which threaten a whole lot of projects and even programmes that we have.
“In spite of these challenges, with superior thinking we should be able to navigate through and to come out strong.
“So, definitely we will be relying strongly on your experiences and your inputs to do well out there to meet the needs of our people,” he said.
The governor urged Deltans to be patient and to continue to pray for his administration to enable it to provide solution to the challenges facing them.
“The times are obviously challenging and our people are in very difficult times because of the insecurity in the land and the COVID-19 pandemic and many other issues that have created a lot of challenges to our people.
“I want to reassure Deltans that we identify with their challenges and we will continue to work hard to proffer solutions to the challenges.
“With their cooperation we will do well and continue to improve on the programmes of this administration.
“We will continue to stay focused on the goals that we have set for ourselves and we believe that in working together, we will be able to finish stronger,’’ he said.
He also commended the media for the fair and adequate reportage of his administration’s programmes and policies.
Responding, Prof. Monye thanked the governor for finding him worthy to be reappointed and assured him of his total commitment, loyalty and utmost dedication in the discharge of his duties.
He recalled that the Asaba Airport concessioning was successful because of the role the governor played in ensuring that integrity and transparency characterized of the process.
He disclosed that the Federal Government was adopting the Asaba Airport model in the concessioning of four airports in country because of the transparency and integrity of the Asaba example.
2023: Muhammadu Buhari not supporting Bola Tinubu – Presidency
The Presidency on Friday said President Muhammadu Buhari’s visit to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the National leader of the ruling All Progressives Congress ( APC) in the United Kingdom (UK) was just on account of goodwill and not to show support for his presidential ambition in 2023.
Speaking as a guest on Channels Television programme, Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, said given the fact that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has not given the green light for campaigns to start, the president will never break the rules by campaigning.
He, however, said the President may campaign after the presidential candidate has emerged in the APC.
“The President still has two years, less three months in his tenure of office. So for him to start supporting somebody now will just be jumping the gun. And you know that President Buhari will never do that. Before the 2019 election, people started to campaign for him before INEC blew the whistle of the campaign to start. He was the one, who came out to say No, don’t do it. Don’t jump the gun.
“So the President himself will dare not jump the gun in terms of supporting one candidate or the other.
“Also recall that he has said that anybody who wants to be President after him should go out and work. That means the president may not be supporting anybody until maybe when the candidate of the party emerges. Knowing President Buhari, he will never jump the gun,” Adesina stated.
PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS LOSSES TO FLOODS IN NIGER REPUBLIC, STATES IN NIGERIA
President Muhammadu Buhari condoles with President Mohammed Bazoum, government and people of Niger Republic over devastating floods that have left many dead and affected homes.
President Buhari says losses reported from Niger Republic in the last two days were very vast and disturbing, while also taking note of flooding in many parts of the world, including some states in Nigeria.
The President affirms that natural disasters are symptoms of climate change which all countries, including Nigeria, have committed to taking measures to prevent the adverse effects.
President Buhari prays for all the departed souls and affected families.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 13, 2021
Ibori Chief Uduaghan
Alema of Warri extols Ibori’s leadership qualities
Business mogul, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, on Monday described former governor of Delta State, Chief James Onanefe Ibori as a colossus, true patriot and political go-getter.
In a congratulatory message to Ibori on the occasion of his 63rd birthday, Uduaghan praised the former governor for his enormous contributions and achievements.
‘’Chief James Onanefe Ibori faithfully and diligently served the good people of Delta State, cast aside all forms of tribalism and delivered the dividends of democracy to them’’.
Uduaghan who is also the Alema of Warri Kingdom and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Webster Group of Companies hailed Ibori for touching the lives of many Nigerians, shaping the future of his people, encouraging broad participation in governance, lifting Delta State to unprecedented relevance and helping to clinch victory at the polls for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
He commended the ex-governor for implementing the bottom-top philosophy, institutionalizing due process and sustaining peace in Delta State through the gospel of peaceful co-existence, good neighbourliness and unity amongst all’’
‘’Chief James Ibori carried traditional rulers along in sustaining peace, through periodic meetings. He created an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive. He brought development and transformation to the geo-political entity called Delta State through Operation 2000 Projects’’ Uduaghan said.
The Warri High Chief applauded Ibori for excelling in development issues and relationship with his deputy, paying bursary allowances to students of tertiary institutions, curbing unemployment, youth restiveness and ethnic crisis in Delta State.
‘’Chief James Ibori promoted peace, harmony and development in the Niger Delta. He campaigned for the diversification of the nation’s economy, power shift, resource control and derivation as well as enthronement of equity and justice in a restructured Nigerian polity where true federalism reigns. He also campaigned for decentralization of policing and security responsibilities of government’’.
The Warri Chief emphasized other achievements of the former governor.
‘’Chief James Ibori built bridges of friendship and understanding among Nigerians. He demonstrated that leadership is not a function of tribe but a matter of vision, determination and mission. He also recorded successes in security, job creation, human resources capacity building, gender and youth empowerment, environmental sustainability and remediation, fiscal discipline and budgetary reforms’’.
Uduaghan also underscored Ibori’s role in the training of Deltans in local and foreign universities.
‘’Chief James Ibori did well in transportation, healthcare delivery, water supply, basic and higher education, rural electrification, sports, ICT, agriculture and housing. He provided better roads, built bridges, facilitated the training of Deltans in local and foreign universities and provided selfless service to mankind’’
The Alema of Warri extolled the former governor’s exemplary dedication to service and his leadership qualities.
‘’As a responsible governor of Delta State, the relationship between the Executive and the Legislature was a model in terms of peaceful co-existence, separation of powers and checks and balances. The judiciary also enjoyed tremendous support and co-operation from the Executive. Indeed, Ibori exceeded the expectations of the founding fathers of Delta State through visionary, exemplary and transformational leadership’’.
Ending the message, Uduaghan said ‘’I wish you good health, long life and God’s continued protection’’.
63 HEARTY CHEERS TO A COLOSSUS
His Excellency, Chief James Onanefe Ibori
Former Executive Governor
Delta State
Your Excellency, I wish to congratulate you most warmly on the occasion of your 63rd birthday.
This is a refreshing opportunity to celebrate your enormous contributions and achievements.
You faithfully and diligently served the good people of Delta State, cast aside all forms of tribalism and delivered the dividends of democracy to them.
You extensively touched the lives of many Nigerians, shaped the future of the people, encouraged broad participation in governance and lifted Delta State to unprecedented relevance.
You implemented the bottom-top philosophy, institutionalised due process and sustained peace in Delta State by preaching the gospel of peaceful co-existence, good neighbourliness and unity among all
You carried traditional rulers along in sustaining peace, through periodic meetings
You created an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive
You brought development and transformation to the geo-political entity called Delta State through Operation 2000 Projects
You paid bursary allowances to students of tertiary institutions, curbed unemployment, youth restiveness and ethnic crisis in Delta State.
You promoted peace, harmony and development in the Niger Delta.
You campaigned for the diversification of the nation’s economy, power shift, resource control and derivation as well as enthronement of equity and justice in a restructured Nigerian polity where true federalism reigns.
You also campaigned for decentralisation of policing and security responsibilities of government.
You built bridges of friendship and understanding among Nigerians
You demonstrated that leadership is not a function of tribe but a matter of vision, determination and mission
You recorded successes in security, job creation, human resources capacity building, gender and youth empowerment, environmental sustainability and remediation, fiscal discipline and budgetary reforms.
You did exceedingly well in transportation, healthcare delivery, water supply, basic and higher education, rural electrification, sports, ICT, agriculture and housing.
You provided better roads, built bridges, facilitated the training of Deltans in local and foreign universities and provided selfless service to mankind
As a responsible governor of Delta State, the relationship between the executive and the legislature was a model in terms of peaceful co-existence, separation of powers and checks and balances. The judiciary also enjoyed tremendous support and cooperation from the executive.
Indeed, you exceeded the expectations of the founding fathers of Delta State through visionary, exemplary and transformational leadership.
I wish you good health, long life and God’s continued protection.
Congratulations and many, many happy returns
CHIEF EMMANUEL ORITSEJOLOMI UDUAGHAN
ALEMA OF WARRI AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (CEO), WEBSTER GROUP OF COMPANIES
CONGRATULATIONS TO A GREAT LEADER At 63
Chief James Onanefe Ibori
Former Executive Governor
Delta State
I rejoice with you on the joyous occasion of your 63rd birthday
I join my voice with millions to celebrate your sterling leadership qualities and roles in building a virile democracy as well as a politically healthy and economically strong Nigeria.
I recall your views on true federalism, good governance and resource control.
I recollect the roads, bridges, houses and many others you bequeathed to Delta State.
I can’t forget the payment of salaries, gratuities and pensions, improvement of the welfare of the state workforce, employment of thousands into the state civil service and your vision in pioneering overseas scholarship.
I am excited about your commitment to the service of the fatherland, promotion of amity among the good people of Delta State, grooming of successors, creation of stars and contribution to the good of the family.
You deserve to be celebrated and honoured for building a far better Delta State, working with first class professionals and intellectuals and demonstrating eloquently that there is nothing as good as a leader writing his name in gold in the heart of his people by keeping faith with them.
Once again, I congratulate you on your birthday and wish you God’s protection, good health and many more rewarding years ahead
CHIEF EMMANUEL ORITSEJOLOMI UDUAGHAN
ALEMA OF WARRI AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (CEO), WEBSTER GROUP OF COMPANIES
Happy Birthday to a mentor, consummate strategist and leader
Chief James Onanefe Ibori
Former Executive Governor
Delta State
I offer my sincere greetings and best wishes to His Excellency, Chief James Onanefe Ibori on the occasion of his 63rd birthday
Yours has been a life of doggedness, commitment and extraordinary accomplishments.
I commend your patriotic zeal in politics and your enormous contributions to the development of Nigeria
I commend you for bringing the goodness of government to the highly educated people of Delta State, putting smiles on the faces of people who came to you for succor and promoting democracy and true nationalism
I commend you for providing employment, modern and subsidized urban mass transit system, potable water, potent health care delivery and good roads as well as secured living in Delta State
I commend you for playing significant roles in the development of the Niger Delta region
I commend you for demonstrating exemplary leadership, serving as a source of strength and inspiration for many within and outside the South-South geo-political zone.
I wish you good health, long life, happiness and God’s protection
Once again, happy birthday to a selfless leader, ardent nationalist, profound humanist and astute politician
CHIEF EMMANUEL ORITSEJOLOMI UDUAGHAN
THE ALEMA OF WARRI AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (CEO)
WEBSTER GROUP OF COMPANIES
Uduaghan extols Ibori’s leadership qualities
Business mogul, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, on Monday described former governor of Delta State, Chief James Onanefe Ibori as a colossus, true patriot and political go-getter.
In a congratulatory message to Ibori on the occasion of his 63rd birthday, Uduaghan praised the former governor for his enormous contributions and achievements.
‘’Chief James Onanefe Ibori faithfully and diligently served the good people of Delta State, cast aside all forms of tribalism and delivered the dividends of democracy to them’’.
Uduaghan who is also the Alema of Warri Kingdom and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Webster Group of Companies hailed Ibori for touching the lives of many Nigerians, shaping the future of his people, encouraging broad participation in governance, lifting Delta State to unprecedented relevance and helping to clinch victory at the polls for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
He commended the ex-governor for implementing the bottom-top philosophy, institutionalizing due process and sustaining peace in Delta State through the gospel of peaceful co-existence, good neighbourliness and unity amongst all’’
‘’Chief James Ibori carried traditional rulers along in sustaining peace, through periodic meetings. He created an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive. He brought development and transformation to the geo-political entity called Delta State through Operation 2000 Projects’’ Uduaghan said.
The Warri High Chief applauded Ibori for excelling in development issues and relationship with his deputy, paying bursary allowances to students of tertiary institutions, curbing unemployment, youth restiveness and ethnic crisis in Delta State.
‘’Chief James Ibori promoted peace, harmony and development in the Niger Delta. He campaigned for the diversification of the nation’s economy, power shift, resource control and derivation as well as enthronement of equity and justice in a restructured Nigerian polity where true federalism reigns. He also campaigned for decentralization of policing and security responsibilities of government’’.
The Warri Chief emphasized other achievements of the former governor.
‘’Chief James Ibori built bridges of friendship and understanding among Nigerians. He demonstrated that leadership is not a function of tribe but a matter of vision, determination and mission. He also recorded successes in security, job creation, human resources capacity building, gender and youth empowerment, environmental sustainability and remediation, fiscal discipline and budgetary reforms’’.
Uduaghan also underscored Ibori’s role in the training of Deltans in local and foreign universities.
‘’Chief James Ibori did well in transportation, healthcare delivery, water supply, basic and higher education, rural electrification, sports, ICT, agriculture and housing. He provided better roads, built bridges, facilitated the training of Deltans in local and foreign universities and provided selfless service to mankind’’
The Alema of Warri extolled the former governor’s exemplary dedication to service and his leadership qualities.
‘’As a responsible governor of Delta State, the relationship between the Executive and the Legislature was a model in terms of peaceful co-existence, separation of powers and checks and balances. The judiciary also enjoyed tremendous support and co-operation from the Executive. Indeed, Ibori exceeded the expectations of the founding fathers of Delta State through visionary, exemplary and transformational leadership’’.
Ending the message, Uduaghan said ‘’I wish you good health, long life and God’s continued protection’’.