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Born in Eku, Ebireri attended primary and secondary schools in Bendel State (Delta State).
He obtained his B.Sc. in University of Port-Harcourt, his M.Sc. from University of Lagos and Postgraduate Diploma from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism.
His professional background includes experience in education, political communication (government relations), political behaviour, print and electronic journalism, advertising, public relations and marketing.
A media consultant to senatorial, governorship and presidential aspirants in Nigeria, Ebireri is widely consulted for political strategies and alternative thoughts.
He was Special Assistant to a Deputy Governor in Lagos State and Chief Press Secretary to a speaker in the Delta State House of Assembly.
A frequent speaker to youth, children and women groups, Ebireri is a very talented conference facilitator, awards host, successful journalist, radio presenter, newsroom anchor, marketer and public relations consultant.
A popular voice on radio, it’s Ebireri’s unique mix of charm, forcefulness and knowledge as well as good humour which makes him such a warm, likeable and versatile presenter. His on-screen presenting experience is incredibly varied.
An extremely lively and energetic personality, Ebireri has a strong business background in advertising, sales and PR, having been the Chief of Communications of a highly successful media organization.
Akpabio’s Performance: South-South leaders write Buhari
Notable leaders in the South-South geo-political zone on Thursday urged youths and women in the Niger Delta region to treat President Muhammadu Buhari and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio with respect.
The leaders also praised Akpabio for looking after the interests of the Niger Delta people with all diligence.
‘’The firmness and energy of the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Chief Godswill Akpabio, have been admirable’’
In a statement in Port Harcourt, the leaders described the views of the Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) and Wailing Women of Niger Delta (WWND) as contradictory and a direct attack on the Federal Government.
‘’Chief Godswill Akpabio is doing all he can decently for the Niger Delta region’’
The statement underscored court cases, studying of the NDDC report and implementation of the recommendations.
‘’It is not wise to raise the question of NDDC board appointment or inauguration at this time’’
Signed by the Chairman of South-South Front (SSF), Chief John Harry, the leaders described the NDDC forensic report as a great boon to the Niger Delta region.
They accused the Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) and the Wailing Women of Niger Delta (WWND) of working against the speedy development of the Niger Delta region.
‘’Nothing vexes us more than the ill-informed opinion of INYA President, Comrade Amos Etaluku. We are very annoyed at what the President of the Wailing Women of Niger Delta (WWND), Onye Nwadighi, is reported to have said.
The leaders said there was no need for women to march round the streets of Port Harcourt as well as the corporate headquarters of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) naked.
‘’The opposition of WWND and INYA to the reforms of the Federal Government in the region is based on unsound reasons’’
The leaders urged INYA and WWND members to back out of nonsense opinions.
‘’Please refuse foolish idea, shameful and destructive activities’’
The statement also emphasized Akpabio’s honest and sagacious opinion on the way forward for the region.
‘’We are satisfied with Akpabio’s performance and have written to thank President Muhammadu Buhari for the steps so far taken’’
The leaders vowed to treat as enemies anyone who should obstruct the development of the region by the current administration.
‘’We must all do our best to promote peace and goodwill in the region. The report of the NDDC forensic audit holds out a good prospect of peace and development’’
THE CHIEF OF STAFF TO THE PRESIDENT, PROF. IBRAHIM GAMBARI (HOLDING THE PLUM), LAYING THE FOUNDATION STONE OF THE NEW STATE HOUSE CLINIC IN ABUJA LAST MONDAY. WITH HIM ARE DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION, JULIUS BERGER NIG. PLC, ALHAJI ZUBAIRU BAYI, PERM. SEC. STATE HOUSE, UMAR TIJANI (BEHIND THE COS), SPECIAL ADVISER TO THE PRESIDENT ON MEDIA, FEMI ADESINA (FAR RIGHT) AND OTHERS
President Muhammadu Buhari has executed the ground-breaking and foundation laying ceremony for the construction of a new Presidential hospital at an event, which held at the Aso Villa in Abuja.
The Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari represented the President and Commander-in-Chief at the event, which was also attended by several key officials of the Presidency including the Permanent Secretary, State House, Umar Tijjani.
Umar Tijjani at the brief ceremony which took place at the project site within the Presidential Villa, said Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, the country’s leading engineering construction company, which had also built the Presidential Villa itself, will construct the new Presidential Clinic, beginning from November 1, 2021, and the projected is to be completed and delivered for commissioning on December 31, 2022.
The Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari who stood in for the President said upon laying the foundation for the hospital: “Now let the construction work begin”.
The Presidential Clinic will cover a total area of 2,700 square meters and it will contain an underground area, two number Operating Theatres, two number Executive Suites, two VIP suites, and isolation centres in the building. There will also be a Laboratory, Healing Garden, Pharmacy and high tech X-ray facility in the hospital when completed.
Umar Tijjani had earlier said, “The project was conceived in 2012 by previous administration and the brief was produced…The President has approved the project. We have gone to Bureau of Public Procurement to get Certificate of No Objection”. He had also said that Julius Berger Nigeria Plc was chosen as the contractor for the project because the reputable construction company built the State House and have been maintaining it since 1990, adding that JBN, as Nigerians generally fondly call the company, has done an impressive work of maintaining the State House.
The new Presidential hospital strategically located inside the Presidential Villa is designed and planned to cater for the medical needs of the First Family and key officials of the Government. According to Umar Tijjani, the hospital will also attend to the medical needs of other African leaders.
The Julius Berger delegation to the ceremony was led by the company’s executive director of administration, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi ably supported by the Regional Manager for the Abuja operations of the company, Engr. Oliver Berger and others.
Media professionals in Nigeria on Saturday described the governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq, as the most outstanding governor in the country.
They also expressed satisfaction with the level of transformation taking place in Kwara State.
‘’We are fascinated by the quality of work on all projects executed by the AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq administration’’.
At a tour of major projects in the North Central geo-political zone, the media professionals praised the governor for his unparalleled achievements and style of administration.
They scored the Kwara State governor high for his meticulous utilization of scarce resources, inclusive strategy, job creation and human capital development programme.
‘’There are several reasons why AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq should be returned in 2023. Practically, all over the 16 council areas, his development thrust are there for all to see’’
Chairman of the Nigerian Media Professionals Group, Mr. Daniel Okeme at a press conference in Abuja praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq for his policy of accountability, transparency and prudent management of resources.
He commended him for renovating all hitherto moribund infrastructures in Kwara State.
Okeme emphasized the transformation agenda of the governor, security, equitable distribution of appointments, Kwara social investment programme and Kwarapreneurs, the most significant economic programme for the youths.
He commended the governor for connecting a lot of communities to the national grid, providing rural communities with potable water and giving priority to the health, education, agriculture, water, information, environment, women, youths and sports sectors.
Okeme said Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq should be judged in 2023 strictly by his record of performance.
‘’Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq has a consistent political character. He is reliable. It is based on the track record and sterling qualities of the governor that notable people in the state are urging him to continue in 2023 ’’
The media professionals praised the Kwara State governor for the enabling and conducive environment in place.
They underscored the good work Rasak is doing in Kwara State, economic development, skill acquisition, agricultural inputs subsidy scheme and the standing of Kwara State before the governor came in.
Particularly, the media professionals applauded the governor for discharge his duties, placing Kwara State in the world map and positioning it appropriately in the comity of Nigerian State.
‘’Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq represents a radical departure. In the area of road construction and maintenance, the AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq administration report is excellent. Many roads have been built in both the urban centres and the rural areas. Electrification projects are going on all over the state. Many towns have been connected to the national grid’’
PRESS RELEASE
NATIONAL YOUTH DAY: YOUTH REMAIN A MAJOR FORCE IN BUILDING A GREATER LAGOS, SANWO-OLU
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has described the youth as a major force in building a greater and sustainable Lagos, as well as a better future for the nation.
He said that the youth segment is an essential key in the development of any nation, because they have the potential and capacity to make change happen for themselves, their communities and for the rest of the world.
In a statement he issued on Monday in commemoration of the National Youth Day, the Governor stressed the importance of youths to building a greater, sustainable Lagos and Nigeria.
Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that the National Youth Day celebration has been set aside to celebrate Nigerian youth and the contributions they make, as well as highlighting issues affecting them with the aim of tackling these issues to support them.
While further revealing that his administration is youth-friendly and inclusive, Sanwo-Olu said: “We have embarked on the implementation of a series of Youth engagements and empowerment activities and programmes through various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
“These youth programmes and initiatives are part of the effort to address issues bothering on youth development and empowerment in the entrepreneurial, agriculture, Information Technology and Leadership skills among other facets of life.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu also noted that his administration has implemented mindset changing and reorientation programmes to build the capacity of young people in Lagos State to think positively and take up their role in nation building.
Some of these programmes according to Governor Sanwo-Olu include the Lagos State Youth Leadership Initiative known as the IBILE Youth Academy, which produced Youth Ambassadors that are already making waves as change makers in their communities, implementing various life touching and empowering pet projects leveraging on local collaboration and resources.
He said: “The Lagos State Employment Trust Fund is supporting young people with great entrepreneurship skills and ideas to establish and nurture their businesses on the path of sustainable growth and profitability.
“The agripreneurship programme has created opportunities for young people in the agriculture value chain as well as the Graduate Internship Placement project which we are currently implementing through the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment.
“Also in the area of Information Technology, the Lagos Codes and Software training programme has upskilled a number of young people within and outside of school in building critical skills demanded in the workplace. We have also witnessed 22 start-ups headed by young people in the areas of agric-tech, ed-tech etc all funded by the Lagos State Science Research and Innovation Council”.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also revealed that the first Lagos Police Youth Dialogue was recently organised “towards strengthening the relationship between them and creating a synergy that will improve both their interaction and security situation in the State.”
Sanwo-Olu while reaffirming his commitment not to rest his oars in engaging and empowering the teeming youths in the journey towards a Greater Lagos, advised them to utilise their skills and potentials in significantly rebuilding the state and nation for the best of all the citizens.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
NOVEMBER 1, 2021
SERAP sues Buhari, wants court to order recovery of ‘missing N881bn in 367 MDAs’
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against President Muhammadu Buhari “over his failure to probe allegations that over ₦880bn of public funds are missing from 367 ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), to ensure the prosecution of those suspected to be responsible, and the recovery of any missing or diverted public funds.”
The suit followed the grim allegations contained in part 2 of the 2018 annual audited report by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation that ₦880,894,733,084.811 was spent by 367 MDAs without any appropriation.
In the suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1281/2021 filed last week at the Federal High Court in Abuja, SERAP is seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel President Buhari to promptly investigate the alleged missing N881bn of public funds, and to ensure the prosecution of those suspected to be responsible, and the full recovery of any missing, mismanaged or diverted public funds.”
In the suit, SERAP is arguing that: “Complying with constitutional requirements and international standards on spending of public funds would ensure effective and efficient management of public resources, and put the country’s wealth and resources to work for the common good of all Nigerians.”
According to SERAP: “It is in the interest of justice to grant this application, as it would improve respect for the rights of Nigerians, and improve their access to essential public goods and services, which ought to be provided by the indicted MDAs.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “President Buhari has a constitutional duty to ensure the investigation and prosecution of allegations of corruption, as well as recovery of any missing public funds. Section 15[5] of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution [as amended], requires the Buhari administration to abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.”
SERAP is arguing that, “Granting the reliefs sought would help to address the adverse consequences of unconstitutional and poor management of public resources on the human rights of poor Nigerians.”
SERAP is further arguing that, “The alleged missing public funds have hampered the ability of the indicted MDAs to meet the needs of average citizens, as the missing funds could have helped the government to invest in key public goods and services, and to improve access of Nigerians to these goods and services.”
Joined in the suit as Respondents are the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, SAN; and the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed.
The suit filed on behalf of SERAP by its lawyer Kolawole Oluwadare, read in part: “The failure to investigate the allegations of grand corruption contained in part 2 of the 2018 annual audited report constitutes a grave violation of the duty placed on the Nigerian government to take appropriate measures to promote transparency and accountability in the management of public finances.”
“Mandamus is a high prerogative writ which lies to secure the performance of a public duty. It gives command that a duty of a public nature which normally, though not necessarily is imposed by statute but is neglected or refused to be done after due demand, be done.”
“If there is a discretion to perform the duty, the court has the power to examine whether the discretion to refuse to act has been properly exercised.”
“Recovering the alleged missing public funds would reduce the pressure on the Federal Government to borrow more money to fund the budget, enable the authorities to meet the country’s constitutional and international obligations, and reduce the growing level of public debts.”
“These damning revelations suggest a grave violation of the public trust, the Nigerian Constitution of 1999, and international human rights and anti-corruption standards. Spending of public funds without appropriation will create opportunities for corruption.”
“Transparent and accountable public financial management is a key pillar of good governance, and of vital importance to provide public goods and services to citizens, as well as to create and maintain fair and sustainable economic and social conditions in the country.”
“Corruption thrives in contexts that provide opportunities to engage in illicit conduct, widespread motives to take advantage of such opportunities and weak controls.”
“The prevention of corruption is more effective in environments that minimize opportunities, comply with constitutional and international legal requirements and standards, as well as encourage integrity.”
“Section 80(2) of the Nigerian Constitution provides that no money shall be withdrawn from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federation except to meet expenditure that is charged upon the fund by the Constitution or where the issue of the money has been authorized by an Appropriation Act, Supplementary Appropriation Act or an Act passed in pursuance of section 81 of the Constitution.”
“Similarly, articles 5 and 9 of the UN Convention against Corruption to which Nigeria is a state party impose legal obligations on the Buhari administration to ensure proper management of public affairs and public funds, and to promote sound and transparent administration of public affairs and public property.”
No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
31/10/2021
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
PRESIDENT BUHARI TO ATTEND CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE IN GLASGOW; PARTICIPATE IN PARIS PEACE SUMMIT
President Muhammadu Buhari will Sunday, October 31 depart Abuja for Glasgow, Scotland to attend the 26th Conference of Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
The President is scheduled to deliver his national statement at the High-Level segment for Heads of State and Government at the conference on Tuesday, November 2.
President Buhari’s address is expected to highlight Nigeria’s key priorities and action to tackle climate change as well as progress on the country’s transition to low carbon economy, consistent with achieving the Paris Climate Agreement.
The conference, hosted by the United Kingdom in partnership with Italy, will bring parties together to help accelerate action towards the Paris Agreement as well as the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Given Nigeria’s leading role in taking climate action and as a signatory to the Paris Agreement, COP 26 will afford a unique opportunity for the Nigerian delegation to work with other parties to make progress on the main goals of the conference including securing global net zero by mid-century and keeping 1.5C within reach; adapting to protect communities and natural habitats as well as mobilising the much needed finances to meet the set targets.
In Glasgow, President Buhari will participate in some side-line events hosted by US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron.
The President will be accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, Minister of State, Environment, Sharon Ikeazor, National Security Adviser, Maj.-Gen. Babagana Monguno (Rtd) and Director-General, National Intelligence Agency, Amb. Ahmed Rufai Abubakar.
President Buhari will thereafter travel to Paris, France on an official visit to reciprocate an earlier one to Nigeria by the French President, Emmanuel Macron, and also attend the Paris Peace forum 2021, the fourth edition to be hosted by the French President.
It will have Heads of State and Government and CEOs of major multinationals, as well as several civil society actors, gathering to advance concrete solutions to the enormous challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and to improve global governance in times of COVID-19.
The Summit will focus on spurring a more solid and inclusive recovery by addressing the various gaps in global governance, offering initiatives to better tend to the global commons, and putting forward new principles of action for the post-COVID world.
While the President is in Paris, the Nigerian government will organize the Nigeria-Paris Forum. The event is expected to pull a crowd of Nigerian and French investors, government and business leaders, diplomats and the media in the hope of showcasing opportunities on both sides as well as bringing enlightenment to bear on the prevailing security, economic and investment climate in Nigeria.
President Buhari is expected back in the country after the engagements.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 31, 2021
PDP Convention2021 : 21 New Members Of PDP NWC Emerge
PDP Elects New Members Of National Working Committee At The National Convention. See Full List.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has just elected a new set of members into its National Working Committee (NWC) to take over the leadership of the party.
Twenty-one people were elected at the party national convention which began on Saturday October 30 and lasted till Sunday October 31 at the Eagle Square in Abuja.
See the full list of the newly-elected national officials:
National Chairman – Iyorchia Ayu
Deputy National Chairman (North) – Umar Damagum (Contested)
Deputy National Chairman (South) – Taofeek Arapaja (Contested)
National Secretary – Samuel Anyanwu (Unopposed)
National Treasurer – Ahmed Mohammed (Unopposed)
National Organising Secretary – Umar Bature (Unopposed)
National Financial Secretary – Daniel Woyegikuro (Unopposed)
National Women’s Leader – Professor Stella Effah-Attoe (Unopposed)
National Youth Leader – Muhammed Suleiman (Contested)
National Legal Adviser – Kamaldeen Ajibade (Unopposed)
National Publicity Secretary – Debo Ologunagba (Unopposed)
National Auditor – Okechuckwu Daniel (Unopposed)
Deputy National Secretary – Setoji Kosheodo (Unopposed)
Deputy National Treasurer – Ndubisi David (Unopposed)
Deputy National Publicity Secretary – Ibrahim Abdullahi (Unopposed)
Deputy National Organising Secretary – Ighoyota Amori (Unopposed)
Deputy National Financial Secretary – Adamu Kamale (Unopposed)
Deputy National Women’s Leader – Hajara Wanka (Unopposed)
Deputy National Youth Leader – Timothy Osadolor (Unopposed)
Deputy National Legal Adviser – Okechukwu Osuoha (Unopposed)
Deputy National Auditor – Abdulrahman Mohammed (Unopposed)
AKR PROJECT: JULIUS BERGER DONATES LONG-LASTING INSECTICIDAL NETS TO ADDITIONAL FIVE THOUSAND HOUSEHOLDS IN KADUNA AND KANO COMMUNITIES
Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, has under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative in the month of October 2021 extended its malaria prevention support to an additional five thousand households in Kaduna and Kano States. This households were reached through the donation of long-lasting insecticidal nets and Guide to Malaria Prevention pamphlets to several primary schools within the states. The beneficiary schools in Kaduna included L.G.E.A Primary School, Dullu Tafa in Kagarku Local Government; LEA Primary School, Kanfanin Zangon Aya in Igabi Local Government and Bashir Abubakar Primary School, Anguwan Dankali in Zaria. In Kano, Sha’iskawa Islamiya Primary School in Garun Malam Local Government and Central Primary School Wak in the Bebeji Local Government Area of the state are some of the schools that benefited. Each school received a total of one thousand long-lasting insecticidal nets paired with a Guide to Malaria Prevention pamphlets.
This recent CSR donations is in continuation of the company’s malaria prevention campaign, which has over the years benefited many communities where it has ongoing projects.
Expressing appreciation on behalf of L.G.E.A. Primary School Dullu Tafa, the Head Teacher Mr. Funom Bawa said, “This insecticide treated nets distributed to the student will help reduce malaria infections in the community as well as absenteeism in the school… What Julius Berger has done today will go a long way and you can tell from the joy expressed by the students that they value what is given to them because insecticide treated nets are expensive and for someone to receive one free of charge is cause for celebration”.
Malam Yusuf Aliyu who is the Head Teacher, Sha’iskawa Islamiya Primary School, Garun Malam Local Government, Kano spoke on behalf of the school. He said, “This is the first time that any company will donate items to us here. It is a very good gesture, we appreciate it and the parents will too, when the children take the nets home to them…, malaria has been a big challenge here”.
Recent statistics put the prevalence of malaria in Nigeria at 23 percent and long-lasting insecticidal nets have been found to be both effective and sustainable at reducing malaria infections in communities.
The Julius Berger Nigeria Plc delegation on this Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) outing was led by Mr. Yusuf Ibrahim, Project Coordinator for the ongoing Abuja-Kano Road Reconstruction Project (AKR). He was accompanied by Akeem Lawal of AKR Section 1, Muhammed Umar, Community Liaison Officer for AKR section 2, and Dahiru Umar, Public Relations Officer for AKR Section 3. Mr. Michael Ashofor of the company’s Corporate Communications Department was also in the delegation.
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc continuously and proactively seeks opportunities to create value and impact people and communities on a larger scale. The company’s commitment to making a difference through socially relevant work is resolute.
Excited Primary School pupils celebrating the moments they got the Julius Berger Treated Mosquito nets along the Abuja-Kano Road Project Corridor in Kaduna and Kano States this October
Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, has under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative in the month of October 2021 extended its malaria prevention support to an additional five thousand households in Kaduna and Kano States. This households were reached through the donation of long-lasting insecticidal nets and Guide to Malaria Prevention pamphlets to several primary schools within the states. The beneficiary schools in Kaduna included L.G.E.A Primary School, Dullu Tafa in Kagarku Local Government; LEA Primary School, Kanfanin Zangon Aya in Igabi Local Government and Bashir Abubakar Primary School, Anguwan Dankali in Zaria. In Kano, Sha’iskawa Islamiya Primary School in Garun Malam Local Government and Central Primary School Wak in the Bebeji Local Government Area of the state are some of the schools that benefited. Each school received a total of one thousand long-lasting insecticidal nets paired with a Guide to Malaria Prevention pamphlets.
This recent CSR donations is in continuation of the company’s malaria prevention campaign, which has over the years benefited many communities where it has ongoing projects.
Expressing appreciation on behalf of L.G.E.A. Primary School Dullu Tafa, the Head Teacher Mr. Funom Bawa said, “This insecticide treated nets distributed to the student will help reduce malaria infections in the community as well as absenteeism in the school… What Julius Berger has done today will go a long way and you can tell from the joy expressed by the students that they value what is given to them because insecticide treated nets are expensive and for someone to receive one free of charge is cause for celebration”.
Malam Yusuf Aliyu who is the Head Teacher, Sha’iskawa Islamiya Primary School, Garun Malam Local Government, Kano spoke on behalf of the school. He said, “This is the first time that any company will donate items to us here. It is a very good gesture, we appreciate it and the parents will too, when the children take the nets home to them…, malaria has been a big challenge here”.
Recent statistics put the prevalence of malaria in Nigeria at 23 percent and long-lasting insecticidal nets have been found to be both effective and sustainable at reducing malaria infections in communities.
The Julius Berger Nigeria Plc delegation on this Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) outing was led by Mr. Yusuf Ibrahim, Project Coordinator for the ongoing Abuja-Kano Road Reconstruction Project (AKR). He was accompanied by Akeem Lawal of AKR Section 1, Muhammed Umar, Community Liaison Officer for AKR section 2, and Dahiru Umar, Public Relations Officer for AKR Section 3. Mr. Michael Ashofor of the company’s Corporate Communications Department was also in the delegation.
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc continuously and proactively seeks opportunities to create value and impact people and communities on a larger scale. The company’s commitment to making a difference through socially relevant work is resolute.
Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, has under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative in the month of October 2021 extended its malaria prevention support to an additional five thousand households in Kaduna and Kano States. This households were reached through the donation of long-lasting insecticidal nets and Guide to Malaria Prevention pamphlets to several primary schools within the states. The beneficiary schools in Kaduna included L.G.E.A Primary School, Dullu Tafa in Kagarku Local Government; LEA Primary School, Kanfanin Zangon Aya in Igabi Local Government and Bashir Abubakar Primary School, Anguwan Dankali in Zaria. In Kano, Sha’iskawa Islamiya Primary School in Garun Malam Local Government and Central Primary School Wak in the Bebeji Local Government Area of the state are some of the schools that benefited. Each school received a total of one thousand long-lasting insecticidal nets paired with a Guide to Malaria Prevention pamphlets.
This recent CSR donations is in continuation of the company’s malaria prevention campaign, which has over the years benefited many communities where it has ongoing projects.
Expressing appreciation on behalf of L.G.E.A. Primary School Dullu Tafa, the Head Teacher Mr. Funom Bawa said, “This insecticide treated nets distributed to the student will help reduce malaria infections in the community as well as absenteeism in the school… What Julius Berger has done today will go a long way and you can tell from the joy expressed by the students that they value what is given to them because insecticide treated nets are expensive and for someone to receive one free of charge is cause for celebration”.
Malam Yusuf Aliyu who is the Head Teacher, Sha’iskawa Islamiya Primary School, Garun Malam Local Government, Kano spoke on behalf of the school. He said, “This is the first time that any company will donate items to us here. It is a very good gesture, we appreciate it and the parents will too, when the children take the nets home to them…, malaria has been a big challenge here”.
Recent statistics put the prevalence of malaria in Nigeria at 23 percent and long-lasting insecticidal nets have been found to be both effective and sustainable at reducing malaria infections in communities.
The Julius Berger Nigeria Plc delegation on this Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) outing was led by Mr. Yusuf Ibrahim, Project Coordinator for the ongoing Abuja-Kano Road Reconstruction Project (AKR). He was accompanied by Akeem Lawal of AKR Section 1, Muhammed Umar, Community Liaison Officer for AKR section 2, and Dahiru Umar, Public Relations Officer for AKR Section 3. Mr. Michael Ashofor of the company’s Corporate Communications Department was also in the delegation.
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc continuously and proactively seeks opportunities to create value and impact people and communities on a larger scale. The company’s commitment to making a difference through socially relevant work is resolute.
Prominent leaders in the South-South geo-political zone on Thursday said Obukohwo Monday Arthur Whiskey, Ovie of Idjerhe kingdom did not understand the objectives of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) forensic audit and the recommendations.
They also commended Chief Godswill Akpabio for pursuing key priorities, paving the way to a better future for the people and providing vibrant leadership in the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.
In a statement in Asaba, the leaders scolded the Idjerhe monarch for embarking on steps that further present Niger Delta leaders as people supporting corruption and working against the transparency and development agenda of the current administration.
They described the Idjerhe monarch as a divisive element and his recent interview as a shameful exercise.
The leaders praised Akpabio for the redirection of the affairs and profile of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and Steps to insure lasting dignity for the Niger Delta people
The statement underscored the reform and re-direction of NDDC, disdain for flippant monarchs, peace, economic growth and empowerment.
Signed by the Chairman of South-South Front (SSF), Chief John Harry, the leaders hailed Akpabio for the reallocation of public spending towards essential infrastructure, security, health and education.
Specifically, the leaders applauded Akpabio for redeeming the zone’s standing, maintaining meaningful dialogue with the stakeholders, strengthening NDDC, increasing transparency, reducing corruption and delivering efficiently basic services to the people.
Meeting under the aegis of South-South Front to address the common problems and interests of the zone, the leaders condemned the Idjerhe monarch for his weak argument, campaign of calumny against President Muhammadu Buhari, Akpabio and the good people of the South-South geo-political zone.
They also criticized the bad sense of language and repetition by the monarch.
October 27, 2021
Press Statement
As part of our preparation for the forthcoming Saturday October 30 to Sunday 31, 2021 Elective National Convention of our great party, the PDP, all members of the NCOC (Main Committee), are hereby invited to a meeting as follows;
Date: Friday October 29, 2021.
Venue: Legacy House, Shehu Shagari Way, Maitama, Abuja
Time: 3:00Pm
Please note that attendance is strictly by invitation.
Members are advised to also note that Covid-19 protocol on public gatherings will be strictly observed.
Signed:
Engr. Seyi Makinde, Governor of Oyo State and Secretary, 2021 National Convention Organizing Committee,
Announcer.
FEDERAL MINISTRY OF POWER
PRESS STATEMENT
THE FIRST 50 DAYS : OUR REFORM AGENDA FOR THE POWER SECTOR – BEING A STATUS UPDATE REPORT BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF POWER, ENGR. ABUBAKAR D. ALIYU, FNSE ON WEDNESDAY, 27TH OCTOBER, 2021
It is with great delight that my Team and I engage with you today through this Statement. We hope to do this very frequently to bring Nigerians up to speed on the developments within the Ministry and the Power Sector as a whole.
Since I assumed office in this Ministry, 50 days ago, a lot has transpired in that short period. This reinforces my inaugural assertion and conviction that you do not need to be a magician to Perform.
I do believe that a determined and motivated team will always find a way to mobilize resources and deliver on its assignment. We have put in place goal delivery machinery which is operational.
With this in place, many of our lingering challenges in the power Sector are now being addressed in a Methodical, systematic, and Proactive manner.
We are working tirelessly as we explore opportunities that will, in the short term, deliver the much-desired quick wins whilst still focusing on the long-term objectives of increasing the available Power, improving the quality of services, attracting the much-needed investment, promoting efficiency, competition and growth and lastly ensuring transparency and accountability in the value
chain of the Power Sector.
The Ministry is intensifying performance monitoring of the licensees and the licensing regime, especially their revised Performance Improvement Plans (PIP) to have a better understanding of why some critical stakeholders are performing below expectation.
We shall be taking a careful and detailed look at issues of policy, capacity and the technical requirement, amongst other things.
One very critical concern that we must address in this performance monitoring process is to find out if the terms for granting of licenses were onerous.
Do we need additional laws and or regulations to enable the sector to perform optimally?
These are some of the critical concerns that the performance monitoring will highlight. The outcomes will also hopefully point at ways to address these concerns and challenges.
It is well known the primary policy aim of this administration is to Provide stable, good quality, reliable and affordable electricity for the people of Nigeria for domestic and industrial usage.
The Electric Power Sector Reform Act of March 2005 is quite revolutionary. We are working on its full implementation to match up with the huge sums invested by this administration to realize our objectives in the Sector, which are very much achievable.
Against the backdrop of the reality that the delivery of electric power is a multi-sectoral undertaking, specific areas of conflict and tensions within the power industry value chain are being harmonized for greater synergy which will bring about a wholesome alignment of responsibilities within the governance system of the power sector. It is this new mindset of cooperation for optimal performance that we are bringing on board.
So far, I am happy to inform you that everyone is in alignment with this mentality. There are ongoing conversations within the power value chain. Stakeholders are talking and cooperating with one another and in so doing, bridging the observed disconnect within the sector.
It must be clearly stated that within this value chain, some responsibilities are by virtue of the EPSRA performed by our private sector partners and other agencies of Government. These partners are being more closely monitored and sometimes given the needed nudge in the right direction in order to achieve our objectives.
Hopefully, we will soon begin to experience the imminent turn around in the power sector.
We are determined to deal with some policy issues, the legal and regulatory bottlenecks, and the human factors involved in the implementation and coordination of the power sector’s road map. Though clearly a work in progress, let me assure you that the viability of the sector is not in doubt. As much as it is a capital-intensive sector and currently in need of massive injection of fresh capital, we are making steady progress.
CHALLENGES IN THE POWER SECTOR
We are aware that the Nigerian Power sector is confronted by many challenges which have not enabled the sector to grow as desired.
These challenges are reflected in the two over-arching problems of the Sector:
Too many people are still not satisfied with the quality of service in terms of hours of supply, voltage,
Disputed/estimated bills, or have no access to electricity;
OUR FOCUS
My immediate focus is how to achieve the following through effective policy and regulation and cooperative engagement with private and public sector operators:
The key policies and initiatives of the Ministry to achieve these aims are: –
agreement issues are being resolved.
Initiative (PPI) of this administration. Siemens Nigeria and the Federal Government in 2020 entered into a Power
Infrastructure revamp agreement. It is a government-to-
government agreement. The Nigerian Electrification Roadmap (NER) is a partnership that will expand Nigeria’s electricity capacity from the current average output 4,500MWh/h to 25,000MW. We are confident that the NER will succeed because of the pedigree of Siemens and their footprint in the Global Power Industry.
The first phase of the PPI is the upgrading and expansion of the vital infrastructure of the TCN and Discos with the end goal of achieving 7,000MW. This first phase started in earnest this year, with the ongoing pre-engineering phase. The selected EPC Contractors will soon be contracted officially so work on the project implementation can commence.
CONCLUSION
Reforms take time and require patience to implement, especially in a highly regulated sector like the power sector. I am confident that these reforms, when fully implemented, will bring about the transformational change that we all desire to see in the sector. We are very mindful of the various challenges and bottlenecks. I plan to face the challenges with a dogged determination and resolve. It is my belief that with the right focus, determination and teamwork, the power sector will experience a new lease of life. This further serves to assure you that Nigeria is finally navigating towards resolving some of the seemingly intractable challenges of electricity and power supply in our country.
We are at the threshold of a new era of greater liberalization in the power sector as we gradually achieve results based on all the plans for quick wins and for long term growth of the Sector.
I am convinced that everything we need for the power sector to succeed is available to us. We must ensure that all stakeholders Work together as a family to improve the lot of the power sector.
Thank you, gentlemen of the press.
Abubakar D. Aliyu, FNSE
Honourable Minister of Power
Wednesday, 27th October, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
COVID-19: SANWO-OLU LAUNCHES MASS VACCINATION PROGRAMME, TARGETS 4 MILLION LAGOSIANS BEFORE YEAR END
There is possibility of the fourth wave of Coronavirus (COVID-19) as the Yuletide approaches, Lagos State Government declared on Wednesday.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, however, launched a mass vaccination campaign as part of the strategies to stave off re-emergence of the viral infection. The objective is aimed at vaccinating four million residents in Lagos before the end of the year.
The immunisation programme was flagged off with a symbolic event held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island. Residents of Lagos, who are 18 years and above are eligible to be fully immunised with the COVID-19 vaccine.
The accelerated vaccine rollout is tagged: “Operation Count Me in 4 Million Lagosians Vaccinated Against COVID-19” and it is being undertaken by Lagos State Government in collaboration with National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA).
The Governor believed the mass vaccination campaign would help bolster the State’s response to the emerging threat posed by the pandemic.
Sanwo-Olu said the joint committee set up by the Lagos State Government and NPHCDA to oversee the implementation of the campaign would be opening vaccination sites in high traffic locations as part of the strategies to expand vaccine access in underserved communities. Mobile vans, the Governor added, would be deployed to move round boundary settlements in order to reach individuals in areas with limited access to health facilities.
He said: “There is potential for the fourth wave of COVID-19, as our borders would be opened to all people coming into Lagos in December. To prevent the catastrophic events we witnessed in the previous waves, the State has developed a robust vaccination drive, leveraging on both the strengths we have in the public and private sectors of our healthcare system. In development of our strategy and counter-measures, we prioritise the protection of human lives and keeping our economy open for business.
“To mitigate against this potential damage that will further spread existing variants of COVID-19 in the State, and accelerate efforts towards herd immunity, the need for a different strategy became a front burner issue. This is what has culminated in the campaign, tagged ‘Count Me In! 4 million Lagosians Vaccinated Against COVID-19’ to target the full vaccination of 4 million Lagos residents before the end of December 2021. Once achieved, this will bring the State closer to reaching our promise to vaccinate 30 percent of our population within one year.”
Since March when Lagos started its vaccination programme, Sanwo-Olu said the State had successfully vaccinated 800,000 residents with the first dose of Moderna vaccine and 310,000 persons fully vaccinated with the AstraZeneca vaccine.
This, he said, sums total number of residents vaccinated with the first dose of either AstraZeneca or Moderna to 1.2 million, while raising the number of fully vaccinated individuals to 550,000, which accounts for about four per cent of the State’s population.
Sanwo-Olu re-emphasised that the vaccines being administered are safe and remain free of charge in public health facilities. The Governor, however, said an administrative charge of N6,000 would be paid by individuals who wish to get the vaccines at approved private facilities.
The Governor charged all stakeholders, including the local council chairmen, to mobilise for participation in the programme and ensure the success of the campaign.
He said: “We have set up COVID-19 vaccination in all our 205 public primary health centres, 14 of the State’s second and tertiary hospitals, and we are hoping that this partnership can be implemented in over 400 private health centres across seven underserved Local Government Areas in the State.
“Let me re-emphasise that we are not compelling anyone to get vaccinated. But, we want everyone to take it as personal responsibility, which is highly important. What we seek to achieve by this campaign is to ensure there is access to the vaccines and availability. Then, give people an opportunity to get vaccinated at centres close to them. This will give nobody a reason not to get the vaccines.”
Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, described the vaccination campaign as “ambitious”, saying the State Government had put in place two-pronged approach to prevent the fourth wave of the pandemic.
“The first step is to control the in-bound flight passengers and maintain adherence to all preventive measures that have been put in place, while the second step is to closely monitor the isolation of those coming from the red zone area,” Abayomi said.
NPHCDA Executive Director, Dr. Shuaib Faisal, disclosed that only 2,950,232 Nigerians had been fully vaccinated, which is a far cry from reaching the target number for herd immunity.
He said: “We have enough vaccines in storage to give many people the opportunity to get vaccinated. We now have the jabs, but we now need the arms.”
The campaign kicked off with symbolic vaccination of Mr. Okeke Onyeama, a private security guard, who was inoculated in presence of the Governor and NPHCDA boss.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
OCTOBER 27, 2021
27 October 2021
Actress Damilola Adegbite discusses balancing career and dealing with broken marriage on #WithChude
This week’s episode of #WithChude gave viewers an insight into the life of the award-winning Nigerian actress and TV personality Damilola Adegbite. The actress discusses how her career turned out to be a walk in the park and how she was able to come out of her marriage scandal strong.
Finding the perfect romance in her fellow actor, Chris Attoh, on the set of Tinsel, Damilola Adegbite had believed she had found her own fairy-tale. Both actors had gotten engaged in 2014 and welcomed their son, Brian, a month later. Unexpectedly for the actress, this perfect haven came crashing down three years into the marriage, and the news of it had gone viral.
Exposed to this turn of events, she had handled the whole episode with grace. The actor reveals how she had consistently refused to grant interviews because she had felt they would cause her more harm than good. One interviewer in particular had gone ahead to make up a false interview on her behalf.
When the actress was asked about the circumstances that led to the end of her marriage, she replied, “It didn’t work. I learnt a massive lesson from that experience and it is that love is not enough. When you meet somebody and you want to spend the rest of your life with them, love is just one of the qualities that you need, but it’s not everything.”
Damilola Adegbite goes further to distinguish the popular marriage mentality from hers and how it doesn’t fit into her lifestyle. According to her, a failed marriage is not the tragedy people make it out to be. Not every marriage is ordained by God. She reminisces how she had fought and prayed hard right to the end of the marriage and how she knows in her heart that she did her best.
Touching on her journey so far with her son, she explained how difficult it had been to answer the questions the seven-year-old had been coming up with. “I know how to maneuver my way through but it’s hard to be able to strike a balance between the truth and what he needs to know.” For her, Brian won’t always be a seven-year-old, but for now, there are limits to what he can know.
Despite the ups and downs, she has experienced in the past few years, the actor continues to keep herself in an area of peace and self-awareness while making waves in her career. In her words, “You just have to ride that wave, just be strong and ride it if that’s what you have found yourself in”.
PRESIDENT BUHARI PRAYS FOR EVERLASTING PEACE IN NIGERIA
President Muhammadu Buhari continues his visit to Saudi Arabia with a brief stopover at Madinah where he observed his evening prayers and engaged in intense prayers, along with his entourage for the return of peace and security all over Nigeria and the world at large.
The President who had earlier been received at the Prince Muhammad Abdulaziz Airport, Madinah by the Deputy Governor of the Region, Prince Sa’ud Al-Faisal spent quality time at the Mosque of the Holy Prophet Muhammed, Islam’s second holiest, engaging in prayers and recitation of the Holy Qur’an.
President Buhari and the delegation prayed for the well-being of the nation and its people and for the full restoration of peace and security in Nigerian and around the globe. Prayers for the economy, ravaged by the pandemic to fully recover for the benefit of the nation and its people were also offered.
The President will later on in the evening proceed to Makkah for the performance of the Umrah (lesser Hajj).
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 27, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH THE ADUDAS OVER DEATH OF FATHER
President Muhammadu Buhari condoles with the Aduda family on the passing away of their beloved father, Rt. Rev’d Tanimu Samari Aduda after a brief illness.
The President commiserates with the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion in the Federal Capital Territory and especially the Diocese of Gwagwalada on the transition to glory of its pioneer Bishop who devoted his life to contributing to the spiritual wellbeing of its members.
He particularly extends condolences to Senator Philip Aduda representing the Federal Capital Territory in the Senate as well as Gabriel Aduda, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, urging them to uphold and surpass the legacies of their father in their services to God, country and humanity.
As President Buhari prays for the repose of the soul of the late Bishop, he asks for strength for the family and those who mourn at this time.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 27, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
Members of Southwest Governors Forum, on Tuesday, met in Lagos State to discuss issues of interest to the region.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu hosted his colleagues at the State House.
Five Governors of member States were present at the meeting, which started at 4:30pm and held behind closed doors. Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, was represented by his deputy, Mr. Rauf Olaniyan.
After 90 minutes, the Governors rose from the meeting and offered no detailed information on matters discussed.
Addressing journalists, chairman of the Forum and Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, gave a brief statement on their discussion, disclosing that part of their deliberations bordered on security situation in the region.
Akeredolu revealed there was also discussion on Oodua Group, a company owned by all six Southwest States, but declined to give further details. He pointed out that the Forum was not willing to share full information on the meeting.
He said: “We, the six Governors of the Southwest under the Southwest Governors’ Forum met today. We deliberated on a number of common and personal issues. We also deliberated on our common heritage, which is the Oodua Group of Companies.
“At the end, we agreed on a few things; a number of them, which have to do with security, are not what we can discuss in the open. This short address is just to let you (pressmen) know we met today but we don’t want our decisions discussed in the open.”
The Governors departed the Lagos House, Marina after the short briefing.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
OCTOBER 26, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
NATION BUILDING: SANWO-OLU, AKEREDOLU, AISHA BUHARI HARP ON ROLE OF WOMEN
…Women Participation In Politics Must Go Beyond Singing At Rallies, Says Ondo Gov
…As 21st COWLSO National Women’s Conference Opens
Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his counterpart from Ondo State, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu; and Nigeria’s First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Aisha Buhari on Tuesday harped on the role of women in national development, saying women must be accorded their rightful recognition in the scheme of affairs.
They all spoke at the opening ceremony of the 21st Annual National Women’s Conference of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) with the theme: “Awake,” held at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the fact that men can do virtually nothing without women, saying it was important for women to be awake and alive to their responsibilities, especially the emerging realities of the 21st century.
According to him, “There is nothing we men can do without women beside us. And so the charge before us today is to look at the changes and the emerging realities of our time. I believe the word awake is appropriate and it is meant for our women to be a lot more resilient; to be aware of the environment; to have a new approach to doing things; to ensure that you have a sustainable mindset at everything you find yourselves doing as individuals, as organizations, as corporate entities, and so on.
“I think it is important for us to know that all of you, working collaboratively as partners with the government, we can achieve a lot together working in unity.”
He said since inception, the policy direction of his administration had focused on empowering women, just as he paid a glowing tribute to the contributions of women towards actualization of the THEMES Agenda.
“In our Themes Agenda, all of the processes and the programmes we have, in one form or the other, are targeted at ensuring that we can put our women in the drivers’ seat. If you talk about health, education, infrastructure, and so on, the strongest engineers that are leading our infrastructure in Lagos are all women.
“For us as government, we have actually awakened; we have said to ourselves that we need women to take their rightful position and it is not just by mouth that they said our government is “HeForShe”, because you can see our cabinet members; they are the reasons for all of the great things that we are doing. We believe that when we have women leading the conversations, we will achieve a lot more. So, you can take it to the bank that our administration will ensure that women take the rightful leadership positions and that you are an integral part of our greater Lagos agenda,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The Governor specially appreciated COWLSO for the various humanitarian initiatives in critical sectors, especially the donation of 5000 transistor radios to support continuous learning by students during the lock down occasioned by COVID-19 pandemic, as well as various interventions in health, sexual and gender-based violence, among others.
On his part, Akeredolu, who was the special guest of honour, said history was replete with heroic acts of women, and that no reasonable society would confine women to the background, just as he said it was no longer acceptable for women’s participation in politics to be limited to singing at rallies.
“There is a need for women to start taking the issue of participating in politics seriously. Your role cannot be just jamboree – singing at political rallies. We must train the girl child in a way that she has a role to play in the future,” Akeredolu said.
Also, Nigeria’s First Lady, who was represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Women Affairs and Administration, Dr. Rukayyatu Gurin, commended the initiative of COWLSO, and called on other first ladies across the country to embrace it, with the view to empowering women and girls.
In her opening remarks, COWLSO Chairman and Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu paid glowing tributes to the founding mothers of COWLSO, especially the late Dame Obafunmilayo Johnson, wife of the first Military Governor of the State, who founded the Committee in 1974, and Senator Oluremi Tinubu who initiated the National Women’s Conference in the year 2000 during the tenure of her husband, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Governor of the State, as well as her predecessors.
She said aside from the theme, other sub-topics would be thoroughly examined in the next two days, adding: “This conference will not just be a talk shop. At the end of the conference, we shall issue a Communiqué that will appropriately articulate the deliberations at this conference, and proffer insightful recommendations that will result in actionable initiatives. It is hoped that this will translate to significant improvement in the way participants address the highlighted topics, going forward.”
The event was attended by dignitaries including the Wife of the Speaker, House of Representatives, Hajia Salamutu Gbajabiamila; Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire; Governors’ Wives from Ogun, Ekiti, Kwara, Osun, Ondo, Kebbi, among others.
Special inspirational women awards were also presented to Nigeria’s first female Director of Public Prosecutions, Mrs Muheeba Wonuola Folami; first female Commissioner for Finance in Lagos State and first female Vice Chairman of Transcorp Plc, Mrs Foluke Abdul-Rasaq; the Iyalode of Lagos, Chief (Mrs.) Bintu Fatima Tinubu; and Super Falcons captain, Asisat Oshoala, who was honoured as inspirational youth of the year.
SIGNED
OLUBUKONLA NWONAH
ASST DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS
OFFICE OF LAGOS STATE FIRST LADY
OCTOBER 26, 2021
OPPORTUNITIES IN LAGOS CRITICAL TO S’WEST ECONOMIC ASPIRATIONS – SANWO-OLU
Lagos State is strategically important to the Southwest’s regional economic aspirations, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said on Monday.
Sanwo-Olu said Lagos, as the nation’s hub of commerce and industrial activities, would continue to strengthen partnerships and raise the economic status of States in the Southwest region, stressing that his administration would always be open to collaborations that would spread socio-economic prosperity across the region.
The Governor spoke at the commissioning of a new Ekiti State Government’s liaison office and Governor’s Lodge built on Oduduwa Crescent in Ikeja GRA, Lagos. The edifice was developed and delivered by the Governor Kayode Fayemi administration.
Sanwo-Olu said the location of the Ekiti State’s liaison office in Lagos offered a suitable ambience to remotely conduct business of Government and host investors.
There are also liaison offices of Ogun, Osun, Ondo and Oyo states, and the proposed secretariat of the Southern Governors’ Forum in the area.
Sanwo-Olu said the decision of his colleague Governors to open liaison offices in Lagos was an indication of the strength Lagos could bring to bear for shared growth and prosperity. He said collaboration remained the key to development.
“This is an honour and privilege to have my brother Governors see the strength Lagos can bring to bear for our shared prosperity. When we all work together, with the understanding that we all have different skills and strengths, we can organically develop every State’s unique strength and address our weaknesses, so that our region and the country can be on the path of growth, development and economic sustainability.
“Ikeja is a capital city and it will continue to be home to all strategic developments. Just as Government houses are springing from here, new businesses in hospitality and healthcare are coming here. GRA is a short distance to the airports. This means people can drive in here and conduct businesses without having to get into other parts of Lagos. Governors can quietly come in and run the business of Government from this wonderful territory.”
The influx of public buildings and private businesses into GRA, Sanwo-Olu said, necessitated his administration’s response to ramp up infrastructure within the area. The Governor disclosed that the State Government would be commissioning network of roads in GRA and other ancillary infrastructure in the coming months.
Sanwo-Olu praised Governor Fayemi for deeming it fit to build the lodge, stressing that the development would further drive the growth of Ekiti’s GDP.
Fayemi described Lagos as “key factor” in Ekiti State’s investment strategy, noting that Lagos was not only a key market for Ekiti products, but also its window to the outside world.
He said the liaison office edifice, which has conference facilities and accommodation for the Governor and aides, would save Ekiti State avoidable expenses in hotel accommodation each time its officials visit Lagos for meetings and official duties. He added that Ekiti State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (EKDIPA) would use the edifice for expansion of commerce and investment.
“The strategic importance of having this edifice in Lagos is enormous. This liaison office will serve as a go-to place not only for Ekiti indigenes in Lagos, who require official services and information from Ekiti State Government, but also to non-Ekiti indigenes desirous of engaging the State. It will also serve as a communication and contact Centre of our State with Federal and State Government Offices, Embassies, offices of international organisations here in Lagos as well as private sector players headquartered in Lagos,” Fayemi said.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
OCTOBER 25, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI ARRIVES RIYADH FOR FUTURE INVESTMENT INITIATIVE INSTITUTE SUMMIT
President Muhammadu Buhari arrived Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday at about 11.50pm for the Future Investment Initiative Institute conference.
The President was received at King Khalid International Airport by the Deputy Governor of Riyadh, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Abdulaziz.
President Buhari, alongside other world leaders, will participate in the opening ceremony of the event on Tuesday and the three-day plenary sessions focused on the theme for the 5th edition of the summit, “Invest in Humanity”.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 26, 2019
PRESIDENT BUHARI SWEARS IN TWO INEC COMMISSIONERS
President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday swore in two National Commissioners of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The two are part of the six cleared by the Senate in July this year.
Recall that President Buhari had on September 15, 2021, sworn in three of the cleared National Commissioners.
The swearing-in took place before the official launch of the eNaira and 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem.
The new National Commissioners are Prof. Muhammad Sani Kallah (Katsina State) and Professor Kunle Cornelius Ajayi (Ekiti State).
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 25, 2021
AT OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF eNAIRA, PRESIDENT BUHARI SAYS DIGITAL CURRENCY WILL BOOST NIGERIA’S GDP BY $29BILLION IN 10 YEARS
The adoption of the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) and its underlying technology, called block chain, can increase Nigeria’s GDP by $29billion over the next 10 years, President Muhammadu Buhari said Monday in Abuja at the official launch of the eNaira.
The President also declared that the introduction of the eNaira would enable the government to send direct payments to citizens eligible for specific welfare programmes as well as foster cross border trade.
President Buhari said that alongside digital innovations, CBDCs can foster economic growth through better economic activities, increase remittances, improve financial inclusion and make monetary policy more effective.
”Let me note that aside from the global trend to create Digital Currencies, we believe that there are Nigeria-specific benefits that cut across different sectors of, and concerns of the economy.
”The use of CBDCs can help move many more people and businesses from the informal into the formal sector, thereby increasing the tax base of the country,” he said.
The President said with the launch of eNaira, Nigeria has become the first country in Africa, and one of the first in the world to introduce a Digital Currency to her citizens.
He commended the Governor of the Central Bank, Godwin Emefiele, his deputies and the entire team of staff who worked tirelessly to make the launch of Africa’s first digital currency a reality.
The President, who assured Nigerians of the safety and scalability of the CBDC system, said the journey to create a digital currency for Nigeria began sometime in 2017.
”Work intensified over the past several months with several brainstorming exercises, deployment of technical partners and advisers, collaboration with the Ministries of Communication and Digital Economy and its sister agencies like the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), integration of banking software across the country and painstaking tests to ensure the robustness, safety and scalability of the CBDC System, ” he said.
The President also used the occasion of the unveiling of the eNaira to painstakingly explain to Nigerians why he approved the use of the digital currency.
”In recent times, the use of physical cash in conducting business and making payments has been on the decline. This trend has been exacerbated by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resurgence of a new Digital Economy.
”Alongside these developments, businesses, households, and other economic agents have sought for new means of making payments in the new circumstances.
”The absence of a swift and effective solution to these requirements, as well as fears that Central Banks’ actions sometimes lead to hyperinflation created the space for non-government entities to establish new forms of “private currencies” that seemed to have gained popularity and acceptance across the world, including here in Nigeria.
”In response to these developments, an overwhelming majority of Central Banks across the world have started to consider issuing digital currencies in order to cater for businesses and households seeking faster, safer, easier and cheaper means of payments.
”A handful of countries including China, Bahamas, and Cambodia have already issued their own CBDCs.
”A 2021 survey of Central Banks around the world by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) found that almost 90 per cent are actively researching the potential for CBDCs, 60 percent were experimenting with the technology and 14 per cent were deploying pilot projects.
”Needless to add, close monitoring and close supervision will be necessary in the early stages of implementation to study the effect of eNaira on the economy as a whole.
”It is on the basis of this that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) sought and received my approval to explore issuing Nigeria’s own Central Bank Digital Currency, named the eNaira,’’ he said.
Equally, the Nigerian leader noted that his approval was also underpinned by the fact that the CBN has been a leading innovator ‘‘in the form of money they produce, and in the payment services they deploy for efficient transactions.’’
He noted that Nigeria’s apex bank has invested heavily in creating a Payment System that is ranked in the top ten in the world and certainly the best in Africa.
”This payment system now provides high‐value and time‐critical payment services to financial institutions, and ultimately serves as the backbone for every electronic payment in Nigeria.
”They have also supported several private‐sector initiatives to improve the existing payments landscape, and in turn, have created some of the world’s leading payment service providers today,’’ he said.
In his remarks, the CBN Governor explained that eNaira is Nigeria’s CBDC and it is the digital equivalent of the physical Naira.
”As the tagline simply encapsulates, the eNaira is the same Naira with far more possibilities. The eNaira – like the physical Naira – is a legal tender in Nigeria and a liability of the CBN. The eNaira and Naira will have the same value and will always be exchanged at 1 naira to 1 eNaira,” he said.
Emefiele added that the CBN has given careful consideration to the entire payments and financial architecture and has designed the eNaira to complement and strengthen these ecosystems and has implemented secure safeguards and policies to maintain the integrity of the financial system.
He pledged that there would be strict adherence to the anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) standards in order to preserve the integrity and stability of Nigeria’s payment system.
According to Emefiele, since the eNaira platform went live, there has been overwhelming interest and encouraging response from Nigerians and other parties across the world with over 2.5 million daily visits to the website.
He listed the following milestones:
”33 banks are fully integrated and live on the platform, 500 million has been successfully minted by the Bank, N200 million has been issued to financial institutions, over 2,000 customers have been onboarded and over 120 merchants have successfully registered on the eNaira platform”.
The CBN governor also used the occasion to commend President Buhari for making history, yet again, with the launch of the eNaira – the first in Africa and one of the earliest around the world.
He also dispelled fears on the nation’s foreign reserves, saying the reserves are strong and getting stronger by the day.
”Mr. President, as you make ground breaking reforms, there have been continuing debate on the true value of the Naira. Rather than worry today on the direction of the exchange rate, let us take a step back and analyze how we got here in the first place.
”Please recall that since the advent of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) led Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) in 1986, and the introduction of the Second Tier Foreign Exchange (SFEM) market, the Naira has been on a one-way free fall from parity to the US Dollar in 1984 to over N410/USD today.
”Some 35 years later, we have not been able to achieve the many promises and objectives of that programme.
”Instead, what we have seen is widespread import dependency, which has wiped out most of our production and manufacturing bases and exported all our jobs in the process.
”What has happened to the massive textile factories across our nation such that we import almost all cotton products when we are rich in cotton?
”What has happened to our vehicle assembly plants across the nation such that we import most vehicles and have become a massive dumping ground for dying second-hand vehicles?
”What has happened to our rubber plantations through which we made the best tyres and rubber products in the world? What has happened to our groundnut pyramids? What has happened to our Cocoa farms? What has happened to our palm oil mills?
”Under your leadership, Mr. President, we must stop this decline for good! We must return to massive homemade production; we must get our people working again. We must create the economic environment for massive domestic production and significant non-oil exports.
”As custodians of your national reserves, let me first assure you that there is no cause for alarm. Our FX reserves are strong and indeed getting stronger by the day, crossing the 40 billion USD mark, and is one of the highest in Africa – and growing.
”But we cannot fritter our reserves away on cheap imports and currency speculators. We must return to an employment-led growth anchored on productivity and rewarding producers of local goods, services, innovation and new technologies.
”If you consume cheap imports and export our jobs, we will make you pay dearly; but if you produce locally – with little or no foreign inputs beyond machinery, we will support you, and the markets will reward you abundantly,” he said.
In addition to all policies and actions of the CBN to support the economy especially through the trying times of COVID-19, Emefiele announced a new financial instrument titled “The 100 for 100 PPP – Policy on Production and Productivity”, which will be anchored in the Development Finance Department under his direct supervision.
He explained that under this policy the CBN would advertise, screen, scrutinize and financially support 100 targeted private sector companies in 100 days, beginning from 01 November 2021, and rolling over every 100 days with new set of 100 companies, whose names will be published in National Dailies for Nigerians to verify and confirm.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 25, 2021
2023 ELECTIONS: BE GUIDED BY DIPLOMATIC PRACTICES, PRESIDENT BUHARI URGES FOREIGN ENVOYS
In the build-up to the 2023 general elections, President Muhammadu Buhari Monday in Abuja urged foreign envoys in Nigeria to be guided by diplomatic practices to ensure that their activities remain within the limits of their profession.
Receiving Letters of Credence at State House from the Ambassadors of Japan, European Union, Burundi, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Cape Verde, France, Qatar; and High Commissioners of Sierra Leone and Ghana, the President told them that they were assuming diplomatic responsibilities in Nigeria at a very interesting political period.
‘‘Nigeria’s national elections are due in early 2023. The momentum for enhanced political activities is therefore expected to commence soon.
‘‘The nature of our politicking often gives the impression of very rancorous engagements. It is the nature of politics here. Besides, democracy and related democratic activities in the build-up to elections are necessarily rowdy and very argumentative, but very much within the limits of freedom of action that the art of democracy permits.
‘‘As you settle down in the face of these developments, it is my hope that you will also be guided by diplomatic practices, to ensure that your activities remain within the limits of your profession,’’ President Buhari said.
The President told the newly accredited envoys that he looked forward to a more robust relationship with each of their countries.
He declared that Nigeria is open to more foreign direct investments in the Education, Health, Transportation and Agricultural sectors, and would welcome improved bilateral relations, especially in wider trading and cultural contacts.
The President acknowledged that while Nigeria enjoys very cordial bilateral relations with the aforementioned countries, their diplomatic representatives must work harder to enhance this level of relationship in the interest of the peoples of our countries.
‘‘It is my hope that, as you settle down to your responsibilities of promoting unity, amity, enhanced understanding, better economic opportunities and the pursuit of peace between your respective countries and the Federal Government of Nigeria, you will make it a point of duty to appreciate our country’s diversity as a source of not only pride but advantage as we are definitely stronger together.
‘‘You will find in us as people, the level of vibrancy that defines us, as uniquely Nigerian, eager to make friends, learn other people’s way of living and imbued with great appetite for adaptation.
‘‘Excellencies, the world will definitely be a better place and much easier place to live in if all cultivate the culture of patience and tolerance in order to appreciate the values of each of us and the contributions that we all can make, for sustainable peace and development, globally,’’ he said.
On security, President Buhari told the ambassadors that more partnerships were needed to fully overcome daunting challenges in the country.
‘‘As a Government and as a nation, we continue to make steady progress despite daunting challenges, notably in the area of security.
‘‘Different factors accounted for this, amongst which are, first, that insecurity linked to terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, cybercrimes, and maritime issues, are transborder acts that go beyond the abilities of any single country to effectively contain.
‘‘That is why, matters of security have become the business of all the nations of the world to work together to overcome. Second, our borders are very long and porous, and their effective policing has become a daunting challenge.
‘‘Third, easy circulation of small arms and light weapons, from the Sahel-Libya axis and the Central African region, have made access to these weapons readily available which inevitably compounds our national and regional security.
‘‘Despite these huge challenges, concerted efforts by Government and our Armed Forces have accounted for the largely degraded capacities of terrorists across the country,’’ he said.
The newly accredited Ambassadors are Matsunaga Kazuyoshi (Japan), Leena Pylvanainen (Finland), Samuela Isopi (European Union), Maria Jeanne Ntakirutimana (Burundi) Monsieur Sune Krogstrup (Denmark), Sile Maguire (Ireland), Belarmino Silva (Cape Verde), Ali Ghanem Ali Alfahed Alhajri (Qatar) and Emmanuella Blatmann (France).
The High Commissioners are Sydney Dowu Davies (Sierra Leone) and Alhaji Rashid Bawa (Ghana).
Speaking on behalf of the Ambassadors, the Japanese Ambassador pledged that they are willing to strengthen existing bilateral relations with Nigeria, assuring that they would work together and explore ways to defeat the COVID-19 pandemic.
He wished the President good health and prosperity for Nigeria.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 25, 2021
The prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) is set to seek authorisation from the Pre-Trial Chamber of the court to open an investigation into cases of abduction of schoolchildren in several parts of Northern Nigeria, closure of schools, and the persistent failure of Nigerian authorities at both the federal and state levels to end the abduction.
The ICC prosecutor’s decision followed a petition sent to the court by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP).
This development was disclosed today in a statement by SERAP deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare.
SERAP had in the petition dated 4 September 2021 urged the ICC prosecutor, Mr Karim A. A. Khan, QC, to “push for those suspected to be responsible and complicit in the commission of these serious crimes, to be invited and tried by the ICC.”
In the petition, SERAP argued that, “The severe and lifelong harms that result from depriving children the right to education satisfy the gravity of harm threshold under the Rome Statute.”
Responding, the ICC prosecutor in a letter with reference number OTP-CR-363/21, and dated 22 October 2021 confirmed to SERAP that “the criteria for opening an investigation into a string of abductions and closure of schools in some parts of Nigeria have been met.”
The letter signed on the prosecutor’s behalf by Mark P. Dillon, Head of the Information and Evidence Unit, read in part: “On behalf of the Prosecutor, I thank you for your communication received on 13/09/2021, as well as any subsequent related information.”
“The preliminary examination of the petition is considered complete. Under Article 53 of the Rome Statute, the next step in the judicial process is for the Prosecutor’s Office to prepare and submit a request to the Pre-Trial Chamber for authorisation to open an investigation on Nigeria.”
“Once submitted, the request will be made publicly available on the Court’s website: www.icccpi.int.”
“Your communication will be forwarded to the relevant team to be analysed, together with other related communications and other available information, in the context of any future investigations. We thank you for your interest in the ICC.”
SERAP deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare said: “By this decision, the ICC prosecutor has taken a significant step toward ensuring that those suspected to be responsible for grave crimes against Nigerian schoolchildren are exposed, and held to account.”
“The victims of these crimes deserve justice. Impartial justice and reparation will deal a decisive blow to impunity of perpetrators, and improve access of Nigerian children to education. SERAP will work closely with the ICC to achieve these important objectives.”
SERAP’s petition to the ICC prosecutor, read in part: “Senior government officials know well or ought to know that their failure to prevent these crimes will violate the children’s human rights and dignity.”
“The absence of any tangible and relevant investigation or prosecution in Nigeria suggests that the authorities are unwilling or unable to carry out genuine investigation or prosecution of those suspected to be responsible for and complicit in the abduction of students.”
“The consequences of persistent abductions of students, closure of schools, and the failure to provide safe and enabling learning environments despite federal and state authorities yearly budgeting some N241.2 billion of public funds as “security votes”, are similar to those of the offences in article 7(1).”
“More than 10,000 schools have been reportedly closed in at least seven northern states over the fear of attack and abduction of pupils and members of staff. The states are Sokoto, Zamfara, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Niger and Yobe.”
“Among the string of abductions in Zamfara was the abduction of over 200 schoolgirls in the town of Jangebe in February. The latest abduction comes after widespread reports of abduction of students and closure of schools in many states of Nigeria, including in north-central Niger State where some 91 schoolchildren were abducted.”
“An estimated 1.3 million Nigerian children have been affected by frequent raids on schools by suspected terrorists. Some 13 million Nigerian children are out of school nationwide. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), more than 1,000 students have been abducted from schools in northern Nigeria since December 2020.”
“Families and parents have reportedly resulted to paying the terrorists thousands of dollars as ransom to secure the release of their children. An estimated $18.34 million was reportedly paid in ransoms between June 2011 and the end of March 2020.”
“Nigerian authorities have also failed and/or neglected to satisfactorily address the abduction of 276 schoolgirls from Chibok in 2014, which prompted the #BringBackOurGirls campaign. According to reports, more than 100 of those girls are still missing.”
Nigeria is a state party to the Rome Statute and deposited its instrument of ratification on 27 September 2001, thus giving the court jurisdiction over crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes committed on its territory or by its nationals.
The ICC prosecutor decided to seek an investigation after undertaking a preliminary examination of the cases of abduction of children in the country.
A three-member panel of ICC pre-trial judges will consider whether to grant the prosecutor’s request, once it is submitted, to let the ICC step in as a court of last resort.
Judges will rely on the materials submitted by the prosecution to determine whether there is a “reasonable basis” to proceed. Victims and their families may also make their views known to the pre-trial chamber.
If the investigation identifies suspected perpetrators of the crimes alleged in SERAP’s petition, prosecutors can ask judges to issue international arrest warrants, which can remain under seal to help authorities apprehend those charged.
As an international court of last resort, the ICC is mandated to bring to justice people suspected to be responsible for war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide when national courts are unable or unwilling to do so.
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
24/10/2021
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
