News From Nigeria
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to “publicly instruct the former governors who are now serving as ministers in your administration to stop collecting life pensions, exotic cars and other allowances from their states while they serve as ministers.”
SERAP urged him to “instruct the former governors to immediately return any pension and allowances that they may have collected since leaving office to the public treasury.”
The following former governors are now ministers in the Tinubu administration: Badaru Abubakar; Nyesom Wike; Bello Matawalle; Adegboyega Oyetola; and David Umahi. Others are: Simon Lalong; Atiku Bagudu; and Ibrahim Geidam.
In the letter dated 19 August 2023 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “The appointment of former governors who collect life pensions while serving as ministers is implicitly forbidden by the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] and the country’s international legal obligations.”
SERAP said, “You would be acting in the public interest by stopping former governors now serving as ministers in your government from collecting life pensions, especially given the current grave economic realities in the country.”
The letter, read in part: “If the ministers that the president appoints are those who collect life pensions rather than serve the public interest, then that may show little about the conduct and integrity of the ministers, but speak volumes about the exercise of presidential power of appointment.”
“Nigerians will judge you in part by the conduct, integrity and honesty of the ministers that you appoint to work in your government. Ultimately, the success of your government would depend on the conduct of the ministers that you appoint.”
“While many pensioners are not paid their pensions, former governors serving as ministers get paid huge severance benefits upon leaving office, and are poised to enjoy double emoluments on top of the opulence of political office holders.”
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”
“The exercise of your power of appointment ought to reflect ethical and constitutional safeguards and requirements, and the fundamental principles of integrity and honesty.”
“Stopping the former governors from collecting double emoluments would be entirely consistent with the proper exercise of your constitutional power to appoint ministers.”
“Stopping the former governors from collecting life pensions would ensure that the country’s wealth and resources are used for the common good and benefit of the socially and economically vulnerable Nigerians rather than to satisfy the opulent lifestyle of a few politicians.”
“Instructing the former governors now serving as ministers in your government to stop collecting life pensions from their states would also improve public confidence in the integrity and honesty of your government.”
“Constitutional oath of office requires public officials to abstain from all improper acts, including collecting life pensions, that are inconsistent with the public trust and the overall objectives of the Constitution. A false oath lacks truth and justice. The oath statements require the oath takers to commit to uphold and defend the Constitution.”
“According to our information, the following former governors are now ministers in your administration: Badaru Abubakar (former governor of Jigawa State and Minister of Defence); and Nyesom Wike (former governor of River State and FCT Minister).”
“Others include: Bello Matawalle (former governor of Zamfara State and Minister of State for Defence); Adegboyega Isiaka Oyetola (former governor of Osun State and Minister of Transportation); and David Umahi (Minister of Works).”
“Others are Simon Bako Lalong (former governor of Plateau State and Minister of Labour and Employment); Atiku Bagudu (former governor of Kebbi State and Minister of Budget and Economic Planning); Ibrahim Geidam (former governor of Yole State and Minister of Police of Affairs.”
“The states currently implementing life pensions for former governors reportedly include Jigawa, Kebbi, Jigawa, Ebonyi, Yobe, and Rivers. Many of these states owe workers’ salaries and remain the poorest in the country.”
“Several of the pension laws in these states include provisions for six cars every three years, a house in Lagos worth N750 million, and another in Abuja worth N1 billion, unrestricted access to medical attention, and pensionable cooks, stewards, and gardeners.”
“Other provisions 100 per cent annual salaries of the incumbent governor, security operatives and police officers permanently assigned to former governors.”
“SERAP notes that in your inaugural speech as president you promised that your administration will be guided by ‘the principle of the rule of law, a shared sense of fairness and equity’, and that ‘Nigeria will be impartially governed according to the constitution.’”
“These commitments are consistent with your constitutional duties under sections 5, 130 and 147, and oath of office, under the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).”
“By the combined reading of these provisions, your government has a legal obligation to appoint as ministers former governors whose conduct is entirely consistent and compatible with constitutional and international legal requirements.”
“These constitutional provisions also require you to instruct the former governors to stop collecting life pensions and to return any pensions collected to the public treasury.”
“The country’s international legal obligations especially under the UN Convention against Corruption also impose a legal commitment on public officials to discharge a public duty truthfully and faithfully.”
“Life pensions for former governors serving as ministers are entirely inconsistent and incompatible with the Nigerian Constitution and the country’s obligations under the UN Convention against Corruption.”
“The convention specifically in paragraph 1 of article 8 requires you and your government to promote integrity, honesty and responsibility in the management of public resources.”
“Furthermore, Justice Oluremi Oguntoyinbo in a judgment dated 26 November, 2019 also indicated that double emoluments for former governors are unacceptable, unconstitutional and illegal. Indeed, former governors collecting life pensions while serving as ministers would clearly amount to taking advantage of entrusted public positions.”
“‘Public function’ means activities in the public interest, not against it. The alleged collection of life pensions by former governors now serving as ministers amount to private self-interest or self-dealing. It is also detrimental to the public interest.”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
20/8/2023
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
MEDIAGATE MANAGEMENT: INFORMATION ADVOCATES
CALL:
08036977194
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has been honoured with an award of ‘Best Construction Firm (Roads & Bridges) Award 2023’ in the nation’s capital Abuja.
At the well-attended National Waves Newspaper & Magazine 15th Anniversary and Honours Ceremony which held recently at Merit House, Maitama Abuja, the very credible and highly respected news platform, commendably cited Julius Berger as unarguably Nigeria’s “leading construction company offering holistic services covering the planning, design, engineering, construction, operation and maintenance of buildings, infrastructure and industry projects in Nigeria.”
Going further, the publishers and organisers of the event also said that “Since its pioneer project in 1965, Julius Berger has played a pivotal role in the development of Nigeria’s industrial and civil infrastructure”, adding that “the company specialises in executing complex works requiring the highest level of technical expertise and Nigeria-specific knowhow.”
Speaking of Julius Berger’s qualitative operational processes, the organisers of the event elucidated and said: “State-of-the-art methods and technologies ensure that quality and innovation are prioritised for the benefit of clients. Subsidiaries and additional facilities make it possible to realise multifaceted projects at the highest level of performance. This structure allows Julius Berger Nigeria Plc to effectively manage and fulfil construction projects, starting from the initial idea, through to planning, design, engineering, construction, operation and maintenance.”
The Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the National Waves newspaper and magazine, Jimmy Enyen, who apparently did his research on all recipients of the awards to guarantee merit, noted Julius Berger’s subsidiaries, namely, Julius Berger Services Nigeria Ltd, a multipurpose terminal operator at the Warri Port; Julius Berger Medical Services Ltd, a medical services provider to the Julius Berger Group; Julius Berger Free Zone Enterprise, which facilitates opportunities to participate in projects within the Free Trade Zones across Nigeria; Abumet Nigeria Ltd, the country’s leading aluminium and glass windows and doors manufacturer, which strengthens the Group’s ability to provide turnkey building solutions; PrimeTech Design and Engineering Nigeria Ltd, a provider of integrated design and engineering resources in Nigeria; and Julius Berger International GmbH, in Germany, a key provider of planning, design and engineering, in addition to logistical support for businesses in Nigeria. The Publisher described the Julius Berger subsidiaries and its effectual head office coordination as the harmoniously integrated engine room which strongly, seamlessly fuels the matchless efficiency and effectiveness of the operational deliveries of the company.
Every Keynote speaker at the event including the Chairman of the occasion, Senator Ifeanyi Ararume, the National President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Christopher Ikechukwu Isiguzo, MFR, who is also the President of the Congress of African Journalists, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, Esq., OON, and the Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, also acknowledged Julius Berger as a key development partner of Nigeria.
The head of the Julius Berger Group’s Media Relations Office, Prince Moses Duku, Fnipr, led the company’s delegation to receive the award at the event.
According to Prince Duku, the Julius Berger Group is guided by a value system that defines and differentiates it. Adherence to internationally specified standards and a focus on efficient and value-driven delivery of services further solidifies the company’s operational and competitive edge. Duku added that with unwavering reliability, unmatched quality, leading governance and a true focus on sustainability, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc and its subsidiaries continue to set a benchmark for progressive success.
It would be recalled that Julius Berger also recently received an award of a golden trophy from the FCT Correspondents Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists for what the media practitioners described as ‘the engineering construction leader’s transparent and healthy relations with the Media’.
Okumagba apologizes after comments on Uduaghan, Warri land
A member of the Okumagba Royal Family in Delta State, Prince Louis Okumagba, on Monday apologized to the Alema of Warri Kingdom, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, for his comments on Warri land.
‘’I sincerely apologise for dragging the name of the Alema of Warri Kingdom, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, in the mud’’ Louis Okumagba said in a statement entitled ‘’Okumagba: Warri Land Scandal’’.
Louis Okumagba said he was sorry for his comments.
‘’Everything I earlier mentioned is false and untrue. I regret any embarrassment I might have caused him. I hereby undertake never to bring his name to disrepute’’ the statement said.
Last year, key families in Okere-Urhobo took steps to foil the divisive and land grabbing plan of Louis Okumagba.
They also urged the good people of Delta State and the general public to completely discountenance the false publication by Louis Okumagba.
Heads and members of the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo of Warri South spoke on prejudices of some local and foreign publishers on the land opposite Don Domingo College, Warri.
Chief Gideon Okumagba, a representative of the three families, read the statement of the royal families aloud to newsmen.
The families accused Louis Okumagba of distortion and inciting fear in Delta State.
‘’The families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu collectively owned landed properties in Warri’’
The Okere-Urhobo leaders said the land was acquired by the defunct Bendel State Government.
‘’The families are represented by Heads of the Kindred family and are the original owners of the land until it was acquired by the then Bendel State Government. The families currently have their administrative office at No 60 Okumagba Avenue Warri where they meet frequently to deal with issues on family lands and other related family matters’’
They offered an itemized and caustic indictment of Louis Okumagba’s behavior in Warri South.
‘’As one of the elders in the family, specifically as related to the false claims by Louis Okumagba, I am well abreast of the issues raised in that publication. The good people of Warri are not in any war or in a battle over the landed property opposite Don Domingo College, Warri, and it is very shameful that the said Louis is trying to incite tribal/ethnic battle in that publication’’.
They promised to file a libel suit against individuals and organizations publishing Louis Okumagba’s false narrative.
‘’It is not true that the Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, used officials of the Delta State Government to intimidate and arrest Louis Okumagba. To be candid, it was Chief Gideon Okumagba that reported his criminal extortion of money from developers to the Police Area Commander Office in Warri’’.
The statement emphasized how the matter was dragged to the office of the Inspector General of Police Abuja.
Particularly, the families accused Louis Okumagba of trying to sow discord amongst Deltans through falsehood.
‘’Louis Okumagba claimed that he has been in the forefront of the land in dispute is false and misrepresentation of facts. The land was acquired by the then Bendel state for public purposes. The Delta State government has since done the needful by releasing/returning parts of the land to the Olodi, Oki and lghogbadu families who are the rightful owners. 4.6 hectares of land was released to the family on the 26 day of June 1988 and another part of the unused land was released to the Olodi, Oki and 1ghogbadu families on the 14 of January 2000. Also, the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families have an agreement with the Government of Delta State over the remaining parts of the land’’
The families told news men there was zero evidence for Louis Okumagba claims of land grabbing.
‘To be more specific, the remaining portion of the land was released to Seriviri Nigeria Limited wherein Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is one of the directors of that company and the said company also have an agreement with the families and half of the land was released to the families. Indeed, the three families benefited from the land including Louis Okumagba ’’.
They scolded Louis Okumagba for rendering a real disservice.
‘’There was never any consultation by Louis Okumagba with the well-known families of Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu before that Publication was made by him. It’s a futile attempt to incite the Urhobo and Itsekiri into a needless bickering. There is no dispute as far as the land in this narrative is concerned. The said Louis should avail himself to enable the police conclude their investigation in the crime levied against him. The land in question belongs to the Olodi, Oki and lghogbadu families of Okere-Urhobo and he should stop spreading false claims and division among the families and tribes in Delta State. If there are disputes in any land owned by these families, it is the heads and members of the family who will collectively decide to institute an action in court’’,
The notable families also condemned the role of Chief Louis Okumagba in the 30 plots released to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State.
They described it as a negative development and a minus for peace and development in Delta State.
In a letter titled: ‘’Attempt / efforts to cause communal war, fanning embers of communal dispute, conduct likely to cause breach of peace and criminal defamation of characters of our clients; Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo kingdom of Delta State, all committed by Mr. Louis Okumagba – a call to investigate the allegation herein, the families urged the Inspector General of Police to investigate allegations against Louis Okumagba, so as to prevent a monumental communal war/crisis between Itsekiri and the Urhobo of Okere Urhobo Kingdom.
’’God forbid a repetition of what happened in 1997/98 in Okere-Urhobo Kingdom’’
Counsel to the Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri in the Okere – Urhobo Kingdom, L O. Egboyi & CO said in the 1974/76, the then government acquired a part or portion of our client’s land for public purpose.
‘’In 2017, the Delta State government gave part of this acquired land to Messrs. Seriviri Nig. Ltd. for the purpose of partnership (Leisure Park) with the state government, covered by a certificate of Occupancy. Considering the size of the land given to Seriviri Nig. Ltd, for the partnership, it could not utilize the entire land. So, it entered into agreement with our client family, wherein, it released 30 plots thereof back to the family – our clients’’
The Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families of Warri are made up of the popular Okumagba family of Warri, Okere- Urhobo kingdom.
‘’Our clients are the owners of all the land in the entire Okere-Urhobo kingdom Warri. Certain Mr. Louis Okumagba who is the black sheep of the family started to foment trouble, disturbing and threatening Seriviri Nig. Ltd, with thugs and dangerous weapons which led to his arrest in 2019 to the Police Force Headquarters’, Abuja. After being granted bail by the police, the suspect (Mr. Louis Okumagba) rushed to file a fundamental Human Rights action against the Police, at the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri. The action stalled the prosecution of the suspect (Mr. Louis) by the Police’’.
The families said the suit of the suspect against the Police was dismissed by the Delta State High Court, sitting in Warri, with a specific order of the Court directing the police to arrest and prosecute the suspect (Mr Louis Okumagba).
‘’While the Police were looking for the suspect for arrest and prosecution as directed by the Court, the same suspect went to social media (Opera news) to declare that “there will be looming danger of war/crisis between the Itsekiri and Urhobos”, thereby inciting, promoting and instigating communal war between the two peaceful co-existing communities of Itsekiri and Urhobo’’.
This incitement, according to the families, created several apprehensions in the minds of locals, which has affected the hitherto peace that reigned and pervaded the two communities.
‘’Furthermore, the suspect posted on the same social media that some named members of our clients namely, Chief Gideon Okumagba, Stanley Oki, Chief Victor Okumagba, Engr. Prince Ojuvwu Okumagba and others, sent assassins to his house to kill him, but he escaped by the whiskers. He confirmed that he had a one-on-one confrontation with the assassins, who confirmed the named members of our clients above, as the people who commissioned them to eliminate him’’.
The legal practitioners described Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu as bunch of responsible families
‘’Olodi, Oki and Ighogbadu families are known throughout Nigeria for their peaceful disposition. The named individuals are distinguished and respected members of the Okumagba family and the Nigeria Society. Our clients therefore take the allegation of hiring assassins by its members very seriously, especially in this era of Security challenges in the country’’.
The families also deplored the actions of Louis Okumagba and urged the Inspector General of Police to use his good offices to investigate the allegations and anyone found culpable to be brought to book.
Former Delta State Governor, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, has been described as a rare gem, prime nationalist and redeemer of the masses.
‘’Chief James Onanefe Ibori is a leader of great stature, a symbol of unity and the well-being of individuals within and outside the country ‘’ the Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, said on Monday.
Uduaghan in a statement in Abigborodo acknowledged Ibori’s ability, will, humility and dogged commitment to the Nigerian project.
He praised the heroic deeds of the former Delta State governor in the struggles leading up to the abrogation of the onshore/offshore dichotomy.
‘’Delta State is blessed to have a personality of great honour and a man of the people in person of Chief James Onanefe Ibori’’.
Popularly called ‘’Mr. Resource Control’’, Uduaghan described Ibori as a brave man, bridge builder and totally detribalized Nigerian.
He commended Ibori for giving a new dimension to Nigerian politics, promoting harmony, diversity, and inclusivity.
‘’Chief James Ibori is a practical, rational person by temperament. He is also a fine example of how to contribute while not holding a legal post’’ the business mogul said.
The statement underscored strength, encouragement, purposeful direction, Nigeria’s unity, peace and stability.
The statement also emphasized problem solving capacity, Ibori’s policy of accommodation, foresight in economic development, his magnificent achievements in the country and Uduaghan’s deepest respect for the former governor of Delta State.
Particularly, the man of high title applauded Ibori for providing important political guidance on the development of Nigeria, upholding Christian values, strengthening the traditional institution of family, putting feelings first and responding to the needs of the people with understanding regardless of their appearance, reputation or mood.
‘’Thank you for the great job you do for the family, Delta State and for our country’’ Uduaghan, a brilliant, very generous and tolerant man, said.
Ending the statement, the Warri High Chief and Chief Executive Officer of Webster Group of Companies said “I wish His Excellency robust health, much joy, unlimited strength and energy, as well as productive activities to the benefit of the Nigerian people
Media Consultant, Henry Ebireri, has urged Delta State governor-elect, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori to embark only on programmes that are genuine, attainable, purposeful, durable and people-oriented.
He also urged him to make significant impact at improving the lots of the masses.
In a statement in Sapele, the media consultant described the March 18 governorship election in Delta State as ‘’’a turning point, a landmark in the history of the oil rich state’’.
He appealed to Oborevwori to steer Delta State in the needed direction.
‘’There is a very high expectation from the governor-elect by the people. He must direct his energy towards inculcating the spirit of self-reliance among the citizenry through economic and empowerment programmes’’
The media professional listed security, youth and women empowerment, agriculture, health, education, infrastructural development, industrial revolution, cultural and tourism rebirth, communication and sports development as key areas to be addressed by the governor-elect.
The statement underscored the future of Delta youths infrastructure and security challenges.
He urged Oborevwori to be fair to all.
He also urged him to recruit only qualified, competent and meritorious hands to help him develop the oil-rich state.
‘’They should be people of integrity, honesty and trust. The team should comprise only tested, dedicated, loyal, courageous, selfless, focused and visionary men and women’’
Ebireri further commended Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for his immense contribution to the political development of Delta State.
Publishers
of
https://southsouthtodaynews.com/
http://northernnigeriareporters.com/
MEDIAGATE NIGERIA
WE SUPPLY CITIZENS WITH ACCURATE AND RELIABLE INFORMATION THEY NEED TO MAKE DECISIONS ABOUT THEIR LIVES
WE GIVE VOICE TO THE VOICELESS AND COMFORT THE AFFLICTED
WE DO ORIGINAL REPORTING (RECENT EVENTS, PREVIOUSLY UNKNOWN INFORMATION, NATURALLY OCCURRING EVENTS AND PLANNED ACTIVITIES)
WE DO NOT CONFUSE FACT WITH OPINION OR RUMOUR
WE STRIVE TO BE FAIR AND COMPLETE
WE STRIVE TO TELL AUTHENTIC STORY, ONE THAT REFLECTS REALITY
WE DO NOT TELL ONE SIDED STORIES
WE LOOK FOR CONSTRASTING VIEWS AND REPORT ON THEM WITHOUT FAVOURING ONE SIDE OR ANOTHER
WE STRIVE FOR INDEPENDENCE FROM THE PEOPLE WE COVER
OUR GREATEST ASSET IS INTEGRITY
MEDIAGATE COVERAGE/ PRESS RELEASE DISTRIBUTION
CALL EXECUTIVE EDITOR
08036977194
EMAIL EDITOR
We can’t do this alone
Help us to continue growing by advertising and supporting us
MEDIAGATE MANAGEMENT
ZENITH BANK
1013607673
PRESS STATEMENT
A fair, credible election has been held and has been won. The honor of that victory and the steep responsibility it entails has fallen on me. I say this not to gloat or boast because there is no room for such behavior. I merely state the facts as they are.
I realize many good and well-meaning Nigerians voted for other candidates. They are naturally disappointed that their favored candidate did not win. Other candidates have voiced their dissatisfaction, stating they will go to court to contest the election. This is inherent to the democratic process. We defend their right to seek legal recourse. While they exercise the legal rights afforded them in our democracy, I have set my course and mind on the leadership of this nation. We have important work to do and I am committed to getting that work done for the benefit of all the people, whether or not they voted for me or even voted at all.
This is not the time for continued acrimony and partisan recrimination. These negative things can incite strong passions; but they are not the pathway to a better nation. Only unity and national commitment can serve that purpose..
Critics of Nigeria have been too quick to conclude that our political system is fragmented because of the impressive showing of new parties and their candidates. These critics are wrong. The emergence of the new parties and their candidates underscores the dynamic strength of our democracy. People want democracy to work and they want to have their voices heard and interests met within it. This is a good thing to be promoted, not something to be feared.
What must concern us is not the growth of parties but the regrowth of old prejudices and bigotries such as ethnicity, creed and place of origin. As a nation and as individuals imbued with the love of God and of our fellow man, we are better than this. At some point we must decide whether we shall be enticed by the ills of the past or shall we more bravely and nobly be encouraged by the eminent prospect of a brighter future.
There have been times in our past when our governing institutions created more questions than they answered. But the arc of our political history gives me confidence that we can overcome that past. We have walked through the thick of the night to emerge into the light of brighter days to come. There is no good reason to retreat into the darkness of years past.
We must begin to repair and rebuild this national home of ours. There is time to complete the task, but time is also of the essence. We must not tarry or fret over the enormity of what we face.
We are able of mind and body. Now, we must show the spirit and willpower to accomplish the historic things that lie within our grasp.
As your incoming president, I accept the task before me. There has been talk of a government of national unity. My aim is higher than that. I seek a government of national competence. In selecting my government, I shall not be weighed down by considerations extraneous to abiilty and performance. The day for political gamesmanship is long gone. I shall assemble competent men and women and young people from across Nigeria to build a safer, more prosperous and just Nigeria. There shall be young people. Women shall be prominent. Whether your faith leads you to pray in a church or mosque will not determine your place in government. Character and competence will.
To secure our nation and to make it prosperous must be our top priorities. We cannot sacrifice these goals to political expediencies. The whims of politics must take a backseat to the imperatives of governance.
We have bridges and roads to build not just for commerce and travel but to connect people of different faiths, parties and different outlooks in harmonious dialogue and common purpose. We have families to feed not just to eliminate hunger but to nurture enlightenment, civic responsibility and compassion. We have jobs to create not merely to put people to work but to afford all a better standard of living by which families and communities are improved and democracy deepened. We have water to replenish not just to quench physical thirst but to ignite a thirst for creative and better solutions to society’s challenges. We have a nation to protect such that we eliminate danger and even the fear of danger. May all of our people be able to live their lives in the light of peace and the glow of broadening prosperity.
An important step toward restoring economic normalcy has been taken by the Supreme Court’s decision on the parity of old and new notes . This restores both the rule of law and economic decency. But this is not the end of the story. It is merely the beginning of a more comprehensive solution to our economic challenges.
Our Renewed Hope Action Plan outlines goals for greater economic growth in our cities and rural communities. We are committed to an economy of double-digit GDP growth, greater food security and one with a strengthened manufacturing base as well as an active digital economy where young people will have ample space to fulfill their dreams and aspirations.
I realize that I am the servant of a larger purpose. As such, I have gone straight to work.
My team and I have been daily engaged in discussions and meetings refining our ideas and policy solutions so that we can begin actively working toward the common good the very first day we assume office.
This great project called Nigeria beckons to us all.
I ask that we work together as Nigerians for Nigeria. Those who voted for me, I ask that you continue to believe in our policies and plans for the country. I also ask that you reach out to your brothers and sisters who did not vote as you did. Extend to them the hand of friendship, reconciliation and togetherness. To those of you who did not vote for me, I ask you to believe in Nigeria and in the capacity of your fellow citizens, even those who voted differently than you. The better Nigeria I seek is not just for me and my supporters. It is equally yours.
I do not ask you to abandon your political preferences. That would be undemocratic. I do beseech you to answer the call of patriotic duty as the loyal opposition.
Remain loyal to the cause of a greater, more tolerant and just Nigeria. I too shall keep faith with this objective.
If we all play our proper roles, we shall begin the task of rebuilding our national home together, day by day, brick by brick notwithstanding our political differences.
As such, the victory of national progress will belong to all of us. The triumph of our nation’s democracy shall cite all of you as its very authors. This is how things should be.
Dear Nigerians, this is our country. This is our moment. We dare not waste it. Nor do we back away to accept a lesser version of ourselves and of our collective fate. We can no longer be satisfied with calling ourselves the giant of Africa. We must devote ourselves to doing those great and historic things only a giant can do. As your president elect, I shall do my utmost in this regard for this is my sworn duty.
I call upon you to come bravely forth as well, not for me but out of abiding love of country and for the people who inhabit it with you. We are so much better than we have been. Now is the time to stand fast and have faith in what this nation can be.
I, for one, am standing. But this time, i shall not be the last or only one standing. Imagine how great we can be if over 200 million other souls stand with me. Let the world see a Nigeria that nothing can stop.
Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu
President -Elect, Federal Republic of Nigeria
March 16, 2023.
NO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT WITHOUT VIBRANT AND SUCCESSFUL SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISE SECTOR—PRESIDENT BUHARI
President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday declared that for any economy to grow and create jobs, an equally vibrant and successful small and medium enterprise sector was also needed, adding that it was for this reason that he recently signed the Business Facilitation Bill into law.
President Buhari spoke at State House, Abuja as he received the Governing Council and members of the Institute of Directors led by its President and Chairman, Dr. Mrs Ije Jidenma.
“I was particularly interested to learn that you not only cater to large corporates, but are aware that for any economy to grow and create jobs, we need an equally vibrant and successful small and medium enterprise sector.
“This administration has, despite the difficult times brought upon us by a variety of external shocks, done much to ensure survival and development of SMEs.
“It is also my pleasure to share with you that your visit comes just a month after I signed into law the Business Facilitation Bill which eases various constraints for micro, small and medium sized enterprises. I am confident that this act will go some way in improving our business environment especially for the MSME’s,” said the President.
President Buhari while congratulating the Institute on attaining the milestone of 40 years, noted its commitment to nation building, stressing the values of transparency and good business ethics. He urged all stakeholders to recognize the noble roles that the Institute can play in the provision of the support base for the development of the economy.
“Let me congratulate the Institute on attaining this very important milestone of 40 years in existence. This is certainly a proud moment not just for the Institute, but for the nation as it signifies your commitment towards the objective of improved corporate governance, ethical business practices, improved corporate governance and transparency.
“These values are not just important pillars in the private sphere. They are also the keys to success in governance in the public sector, where the people have handed to us in trust, the responsibility to lead, guide and protect them.
“As our economy and conversely our private sector continues to grow and evolve, it behooves all stakeholders to recognize that such a resourceful institution not only exists, but is equipped and capable of providing the necessary support and development for the country.”
In her remarks, Dr. Jidenma noted that the reforms executed in various sectors of the Nigerian economy in the past eight years have increased expectations on the performance of business leaders and boards of public sector organisations.
This, the President of the Council noted, has made the Institute poised to sustain its leadership role in the orientation and capacity development for these Directors so that they can deliver on the mandates given to them.
Dr Jidenma stated that the Institute had gained insights on areas that needed further action towards being ‘Chartered,’ and having interfaced with the National Assembly and relevant stakeholders, requested for the President’s kind consideration and assent when the Bill gets transmitted to him.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 16, 2023
PRESIDENT BUHARI HAILS FORMER JUSTICE OF SUPREME COURT, EMMANUEL OBIOMA OGWUEGBU AT 90
President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with former Justice of the Supreme Court, Emmanuel Obioma Ogwuegbu, on his 90th birthday, March 16, 2023, joining family and friends to celebrate God’s grace of a worthy long life of service, with many achievements, especially in the judiciary.
President Buhari congratulates Justice Ogwuegbu, other retired and serving Justices, Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) and Body of Benchers on the milestone, saluting the courage of the former Judge of the High Court, Imo State, 1976-1987, for putting the interest of the nation and her people first by standing for the truth, and administering it.
The President affirms that the legal luminary worked hard to earn his respected position in the judiciary, the country, and beyond it, upholding standards of clarity and balance in judgements for many years, and consistently sharing his wisdom with leaders.
President Buhari thanks the nonagenarian for believing so much in Nigeria that he returned to the country to start his private legal practice, 1963, after studying at University of Liverpool and University of London,1976.
The President prays for continued good health and sound mind for the venerable retired jurist.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 15, 2023
PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS FORMER SUPER FALCONS COACH, ISMAILA MABO
President Muhammadu Buhari extends condolences to the family of Ismaila Muhammad Abubakar, a former coach of the Nigerian female football team, the Super Falcons, who died on Monday aged 80.
The President joins them in mourning the loss of their husband and father, popularly known as Ismaila Mabo Nakande, who was a seasoned football manager, credited to have worked with and managed some of the best talented female players in Nigeria’s football history.
Mabo was also a legendary footballer in the domestic league, making his mark as a player and captain of Mighty Jets of Jos and also representing the country as a formidable central defender with the Green Eagles.
As the head coach of the Nigeria women’s national team at the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup, 2000 Summer Olympics and 2004 Summer Olympics, the President believes that Mabo’s legacy will live on in the players and the coaches that came in contact with him during his career, as well as the young athletes that will draw inspiration from his managerial abilities in the years to come.
The President prays that the memory of the departed will be a blessing to those who mourn.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 13, 2023
PRESIDENT BUHARI NEVER TOLD AG AND CBN GOV TO DEFY SUPREME COURT ORDER
The Presidency wishes to react to some public concerns that President Muhammadu Buhari did not react to the Supreme Court judgement on the issue of the N500 and N1,000 old currency notes, and states here plainly and clearly that at no time did he instruct the Attorney General and the CBN Governor to disobey any court orders involving the government and other parties.
Since the President was sworn into office in 2015, he has never directed anybody to defy court orders, in the strong belief that we can’t practise democracy without the rule of law and the commitment of his administration to this principle has not changed.
Following the ongoing intense debate about the compliance concerning the legality of the old currency notes, the Presidency therefore wishes to state clearly that President Buhari has not done anything knowingly and deliberately to interfere with or obstruct the administration of justice.
The President is not a micromanager and will not, therefore, stop the Attorney General and the CBN Governor from performing the details of their duties in accordance with the law. In any case. it is debatable at this time if there is proof of willful denial by the two of them on the orders of the apex court.
The directive of the President, following the meeting of the Council of State. is that the Bank must make available for circulation all the money that is needed and nothing has happened to change the position.
It is an established fact that the President is an absolute respecter of judicial process and the authority of the courts. He has done nothing in the last eight or so years to act in any way to obstruct the administration of justice, cause lack of confidence in the administration of justice, or otherwise interfere or corrupt the courts and there is no reason whatsoever that he should do so now when he is getting ready to leave office.
The negative campaign and personalised attacks against the President by the opposition and all manner of commentators is unfair and unjust, as no court order at any level has been issued or directed at him.
As for the cashless system the CBN is determined to put in place, it is a known fact that many of the country’s citizens who bear the brunt of the sufferings, surprisingly support the policy as they believe that the action would cut corruption, fight terrorism, build an environment of honesty and reinforce the incorruptible leadership of the President.
It is therefore wide off the mark to blame the President for the current controversy over the cash scarcity, despite the Supreme Court judgement. The CBN has no reason not to comply with court orders on the excuse of waiting for directives from the President.
President Buhari has also rejected the impression that he lacks compassion, saying that “no government in our recent history has introduced policies to help economically marginalised and vulnerable groups like the present administration.”
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 13, 2023
Bassey Otu represents fairness, truth, justice and freedom, says Ndoma-Egba
Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, SAN, has called on Cross River people to come out en masse on Saturday, March 18, 2023, to vote for the gubernatorial standard-bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Senator Bassey Otu and the candidates of the party for the state assembly election.
Ndoma-Egba, who made the call on Thursday, said the state cannot afford to be in opposition with the emergence of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu of APC as the President-elect.
He insisted that the zoning arrangement and understanding that has ensured peaceful co-existence among Cross Riverians shouldn’t be broken at this point in time in the interest of the state.
Going by the power rotation formula that has been in place and strictly followed in the state, Cross River South where Senator Otu emanates from is favoured among the three senatorial districts to produce the governor in 2023.
With the belief that Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State is the godfather and major sponsor of the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Sandy Onor, the erstwhile Senate Majority Leader told Cross Riverians that it would be dangerous to allow external forces determine who becomes the next governor of the state.
Below is Ndoma-Egba’s full message:
Greetings fellow Cross Riverians, I am Victor Ndoma-Egba, a papal knight of St. Sylvester the Pope, Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR), Commander of the Order of Niger (CON), Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), the Leader of the seventh Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Saturday 18th March 2023, the date set aside by INEC for the election of our governor and members of the Cross River State House of Assembly is a date with history. It is a date for us Cross Riverians to decide whether we remain masters and mistresses of our destiny or we become slaves to the governor of another state facing imminent retirement who is in search of his pension from our state.
I was born in Ikom in the Central Senatorial District of the state, went to school in Ogoja in the north and practiced law there for a while before settling in Calabar in the south where by the grace of God I prospered. I am a complete local boy who did not seek greener pastures anywhere else other than Cross River State in spite of the opportunities providence offered me. I am a proud Cross Riverian who has benefited from the generosity and kindness of Cross Riverians and have been defined by Cross River State. I chose to remain with my people all my life.
The choices before us on 18th March 2023 are stark. It is a choice between freedom and slavery, a choice between truth and falsehood, a choice between justice and injustice, a choice to be freeborns or to be vassals and underlings. Senator Bassey Edet Otu, aka Sweet Prince is a choice for truth, justice and freedom. He represents what we have stood for – justice, truth and history.
The candidates of the two major parties, the APC and the PDP, have had opportunities of public services at different times. While Bassey Otu’s achievements remain acclaimed many years out of office, that of the other candidate (Senator Sandy Onor of PDP) who is still in office is discussed in whimpers.
Since its creation in 1967 as a south-eastern state and the creation of Akwa-Ibom State in 1987 out of it, we have always shared opportunities and resources on the basis of senatorial districts and local governments and not ethnicity. No wonder when Atam Congress reared its head in Donald Duke’s second term, we all including the candidate of the PDP and its endorsers rose in condemnation. Today, the PDP takes into account Governor Ben Ayade’s two years in APC and fraudulently ignores his six years in PDP. The same Governor Ayade they had commended in the past.
They claim Senator Bassey Otu is a product of Governor Ayade. This is not true. Senator Otu was the outcome of a thorough and transparent process, part of which I midwifed. Assuming but not conceding that Governor Ayade had a hand in his emergence, his status cannot be as bad as that of the PDP candidate who was imposed on his party by Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State who has generously funded him in the hope of getting returns in his retirement from Cross River State.
The candidate of the PDP is a candidate of external forces while Senator Bassey Otu is the candidate of Cross Riverians. The ambition of one man is not worth the peace and unity of our state. Stand for truth and reject falsehood!
We as a state are too vulnerable to be in the opposition. That has been the message since 1999. Today, we have a President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the APC, we still cannot be in opposition. Be wise. Vote for Senator Bassey Otu and all the candidates of the APC for the Cross River State House of Assembly.
‘I do not have anything against Bobrisky’ Tosin Silverdam, Daniel Regha sit #WithChude
Chude Jideonwo, host of #WithChude, sit with social media commentator, Daniel Regha and popular gossip blogger, Tosin Silverdam to talk about their careers and the public perception of them.
On how he got into gossip blogging, Tosin shared, ‘I was into blogging online back then, but then I stopped. I got a job at a pharmacy as a social media manager, and things weren’t going so well like that. Then I got a job at Dufil Prima, the makers of Indomie and I was transferred to Kano. I didn’t know anybody in Kano, so I had to go to Kano to start my life over. During the pandemic, people were doing TikTok, so I said, ‘let me try TikTok’. I didn’t know how to dance, but I was doing the normal challenge. One day I decided to do something different that will shake the internet, I just said, ‘5 celebrities that I don’t like’, and just like that it went viral.
Speaking about why he thinks he doesn’t contribute to the toxicity on the internet, Daniel Regha said, “I air honest opinion. Even the haters know that what I am doing is right, otherwise, they should use the block button. Personally, I do not care if my followers drop to 100,000 today. If I can put brands that I work with on blast, why will I care about ordinary following? I would rather have 4,000 legit followers than have people who are stalking me looking for what I am going to wear next to call me and just insult me.”
He also shared how he developed a thick skin to what people think of him, ‘I think I just grew into it. There was a time I was looking for people’s approval on certain things, especially when I was in school. But at one time, I was like, ‘you can’t please people and at the same time, while trying to please people I will end up displeasing myself’.
On his persistent quarrel with the popular cross-dresser, Bobrisky, Tosin said, “I do not have anything against them (Bobrisky). Bobrisky is content. I met Bobrisky in Khloe’s place. Bobrisky came late, so Khloe was like I should wait for Bobrisky, I should see him and we must settle. I was like how many celebrities will I settle with because even if I settle with them today, I will still talk about them. He came in late, he was supposed to sit beside me but he said ‘I can’t sit down beside that guy, he always talks about me’. So, Khloe said I should talk to him. I met with him, and he wasn’t upset by some things I said about him. He said, I called him a liar that he doesn’t lie, and I was comparing him with Papaya and all that, that was the only thing he said, but I can go ahead and talk about him, but I shouldn’t say he or she is a liar”.
On the business of gossip, he shared, “I don’t care what people say, as long as I am making my money. This is just for a period of time, then I will delve into something else”.
PRESS RELEASE
‘SANWO-OLU SHOULD BE RE-ELECTED’, AFENIFERE LEADER, PA FASORANTI ENDORSES LAGOS GOVERNOR
National leader of the apex Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, has endorsed the re-election bid of Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, urging the electorate in the State to queue behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in order to consolidate on the achievements recorded in the in Lagos.
Lagos, the Afenifere leader in a press statement said, is an important nation’s commercial city and the pride of the Yoruba race, saying the evolving physical and socio-economic developments of the city should not be thwarted. He said the State would gain more under the incoming Tinubu administration than when it is in the hands of the opposition.
The elder statesman urged Lagosians not to make the mistake of buying into the gimmick of those bent on reversing the achievement Lagos had recorded.
Pa Fasoranti also described the emergence of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as winner of the 2023 presidential election as “a reflection of the electoral will of the majority of Nigerians”, congratulating the former Lagos Governor for his victory.
The Yoruba leader said he aligned with impartial electoral observers to give the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) a pass mark for the conduct of the presidential election, which he described as “free, fair and credible”, despite the challenges that threatened to derail the process.
The elder statesman urged the electoral umpire to build on the gains of the presidential elections and improve on the feat recorded in the conduct of gubernatorial elections coming up next Saturday across the federation.
He said: “I want to use this opportunity to recognise and appreciate the achievements of the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu who is seeking re-election for a second term on the platform of APC. Lagos as the economic nerve centre of Nigeria and by extension of Yorubaland deserves the very best. Governor Sanwo-Olu has been through the mill and crucible of politics, business, and public administration, occupying various positions in government since 1999 and garnering requisite experience which he has displayed in the last four years to the admiration of all and sundry.
“I am convinced that these giant strides should be sustained in the city with the third largest economy in Africa. I therefore wish to join my voice to those of other patriotic Lagosians that there is need for continuity in the state by lending my support to the second term bid of Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu as governor of Lagos State. In addition, I believe that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as APC President will benefit Lagos State more if the state has an APC Governor to compliment whatever the President has for Lagos State.”
Pa Fasoranto acknowledged Sanwo-Olu’s achievement in provision of physical infrastructure in various sectors of the Lagos economy, including transportation, education, housing, security, health and agriculture.
He added that the response of Lagos State Government to stop the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic was worthy and commendable.
He said: “Sanwo-Olu’s achievements include but are not limited to the Blue Line rail, Imota Rice Mill, Red Line rail, the Proposed Fourth Mainland Bridge, numerous housing projects in different parts of Lagos, and road projects across the state. These projects, when fully operational, will employ over a million Nigerians, mostly youths, thereby substantially reducing unemployment in the country.
I am convinced that these giant strides should be sustained in the city with the third largest economy in Africa. I, therefore, call on the good people of Lagos State to come out en-masse on Saturday to cast their votes for the governorship candidate of the APC, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.”
2023: EX-PDP GUBER CANDIDATE, LP SENATORIAL CANDIDATE DUMP PARTIES, JOIN FORCES WITH APC
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s re-election bid received a major boost on Wednesday as former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Dr. Ade Dosunmu and Labour Party’s Lagos Central Senatorial candidate on February 25 National Assembly poll, Chief Adesunbo Onitiri dumped their parties to work for the Governor’s re-election.
Dosunmu and Onitiri, who defected to APC with thousands of their supporters and members across Lagos State, declared their intentions to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and work for the party during Saturday’s governorship and House of Assembly elections.
They made the declarations on Wednesday during a meeting with Governor Sanwo-Olu and APC leaders at Lagos House, Marina.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also received chairmen of 13 political parties, who are members of the Conference of Political Parties (CPP) as well as members of the Eyo Alakete Pupa Ikolaba Ekun led by Prince Uthman Sodipe-Dosunmu. They all pledged their support towards the re-election bid of the Governor.
Speaking during the event, the defectors said they have seen what Sanwo-Olu had achieved in the last four years and decided to align with his government.
Dosunmu, who defected to APC with members of the Lagos State PDP as well as House of Representatives and House of Assembly candidates of the party, said their endorsement of Sanwo-Olu for re-election was in the interest of Lagos State.
In his declaration speech, Dosunmu said their decision to join APC was based on the dynamic leadership of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the manner with which the incumbent Governor Sanwo-Olu has been piloting the affairs of Lagos State since he assumed office about four years ago.
He said: “Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is a man of exceptional dynamism, a listener, and a good crisis manager. I must state that his inspiring personal style of leadership is equally deserving of my humble commendation. The steady and self-assured way he has been piloting the affairs of Lagos State cutting across every sector with characteristic skills and sobriety is commendable. His great exploits in the areas of infrastructure development, youth empowerment, education, health, direct foreign investment, and transportation (rail and land transportation) among others are enormous.
“I want to urge all members of the APC in Lagos State to see this current political realignment as a unique opportunity for greater mobilisation, consolidation, and breaking of new grounds in the build-up to the Governorship and State Assembly elections. A vote for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is a vote for strong collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria under the able leadership of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This will no doubt bring unprecedented development to Lagos State and enhance the quality of life of its resident.
“My teaming supporters and I will spare no effort to work for wider acceptability and electoral victory for the APC – our new party, in Lagos State come March 18, 2023.”
Also speaking, Onitiri, the Chairman of the Elders Committee of the Labour Party, said Governor Sanwo-Olu is the most competent and most qualified among all the gubernatorial candidates.
He said: “We are here with our members to join hands with our able brother, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to ensure that he has a second term by the grace of God. We are prepared to work with you because we know you are a tested and trusted hand.
“You are the most competent and most qualified. We have seen what you have done in the last four years. We are here to endorse you as a governor for the second term. Lagos State Prominent Indigenes are with you. We will campaign and vote for you.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu while receiving the defectors said the APC had the ambiance of togetherness to accommodate all of them.
He commended all the defectors and assured them that he will not disappoint them for supporting his re-election.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
15 MARCH 2023
Africa risks missing the Sustainable Development Goals – . Antonio Pedro
Addis Ababa, 15 March 2023 (ECA) – Africa must lead the charge in mobilizing domestic resources to recover from multiple economic and social crises which have deepened poverty and widened inequality on the continent, Acting Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, Antonio Pedro, has urged, warning that Africa risks missing the Sustainable Development Goals.
“Africa currently leads in global poverty,” Mr. Pedro told participants at the 41st meeting of the Committee of Experts that kicked off today, ahead of next week’s Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic Development Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Mr. Pedro cautioned that without bold financial and climate action, Africa will be locked into a poverty trap. With more than half of the world’s poor – 54.8 per cent in 2022 being in Africa, the continent had overtaken South Asia with 37.6 percent, while the COVID-19 outbreak had pushed 62 million people into poverty in just one year, with an additional 18 million estimated to have joined their ranks by the end of 2022.
As many as 149 million non-poor remain at high risk of falling into poverty, Mr. Pedro said, further elaborating that 695 million people in Africa were either poor or face the risk of falling into poverty.
“Women and girls remain particularly vulnerable, and we are facing a potential reversal of the hard-won gains made on gender equity,” said Mr. Perdo, adding that, “Africa cannot just stay the course and hope that it gets better. It must lead the charge.”
The challenges are not insurmountable if Africa can implement systemic change and build resilient and sustainable systems, shifting away from a primary focus on efficiency that has dominated past decades.
Mr. Pedro said investments in sustainable building up capital in critical assets – including human, infrastructure, and natural resources – were needed to provide an environment that can facilitate achieving the ambitions of the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063. Therefore, governments must design strategies that simultaneously integrate economic, social and environmental objectives, he noted.
“First, we need to finance our development, ” Mr. Perdo urged, emphasizing that getting the macroeconomic fundamentals right can unlock the potential of home-grown solutions.
Nonetheless, he said, Africa still needs a fairer and more just global financial architecture that responds to its needs, bemoaning that many countries currently cannot access international financial markets because of rising interest rates and unworkable existing debt relief mechanisms.
He noted that Africa must aggressively pursue sustainable industrialization and economic diversification to transform its natural resources into tangible benefits for its people. The battery and electric value chain development was a case in point.
“Put simply, our wealth in natural resources must work for the majority, not the few. To get to this point, we must be intentional in our approach, said Mr. Pedro, citing that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) can increase intra-Africa trade.
“We must take center stage on climate action. While we cannot overlook the fact that we are disproportionately suffering on impact and financing alike, we have significant opportunities to rebalance the scales on climate finance,” he said.
Africa rainforests and the development of its carbon markets, for instance, could unleash an estimated $82 billion a year in value at $120 per ton of CO2 sequestered and create 167 million additional jobs.
In opening remarks at the conference, Nemera Gebeyehu Mamo, State Minister for Planning and Development of the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, emphasized that Africa must accelerate changes needed for its economic recovery.
“Poverty is Africa’s most pressing challenge,” Mr. Mamo told participants, remarking that Africa should advocate for financial changes to aid recovery.
“Climate action is impossible without finance,” stressed Mr. Mamo, noting that leveraging climate change financing can help tackle poverty in Africa.
Africa’s growing poverty is linked to the worsening economic and financial conditions it has experienced, Mahamodou Bamba Diop, Director General of Planning and Economic Policies of the Republic of Senegal and Outgoing Chair of the Bureau of the Committee of Experts, said in an overview of the situation in Africa.
Mr. Diop noted that Africa’s economic growth had slowed over the past year due to the combined effects of COVID pandemic, the Ukraine war, global economic slowdown and climate change.
“We need to build a resilient Africa,” Mr. Diop urged, highlighting the need to reform the current financial architecture, develop effective data and statistical systems and tackle the impact of climate change.
-Ends-
AKERE MARKET FIRE: SANWO-OLU COMPENSATES TRADERS WITH N100M
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday donated N100 million to traders in the burnt Akere Motor Parts and Allied Dealers Association (AMPADA) market in the Ajegunle area of the State.
The Governor also laid the foundation for a new market building.
Speaking during his visit to the burnt site of the Akere market on Wednesday, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the efforts by the Lagos State Government were to help alleviate the plight of the traders who lost goods and cash in the fire when the market got burnt last week.
He said: “A week or less ago we promised to come back here to give immediate support to the people who were affected by the unfortunate incident. This is not politics, it is just a coincidence that it is a political season.
“I am happy to be here to lay the foundation for the new market building. Now it is a storey building and a small compensation that will alleviate the suffering and loss of our traders here. It is for us to make a clear stand that we are not about ethnic or religious division. We are a government that is people-centered and working to make things better for them, no matter what party or where they come from.
“As long as they are law-abiding, keep to laws guiding the environment, and respect the heritage of where they do business, they will always be accommodated.
“This will also send a clear message to people who want to divide us that we won’t let a small number disunite a large number of people. We won’t give them a space in Lagos and our government.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu also urged Lagos residents to come out and vote massively for him on Saturday, noting that the 18 percent vote cast during the presidential election is not a good representation of the Lagos population.
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area, Hon. Fatai Ayoola thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for keeping to his promise of helping the people.
He promised that the people in the council would reciprocate the good gesture by voting for Governor Sanwo-Olu during Saturday’s governorship poll.
He said: “True to your word you are here today in Ajegunle to compensate the marketers for their loss and also lay the foundation for their new market. We thank you and wish that your efforts will be rewarded in Saturday’s election.
“We assure you that in Ajegunle we will do all within the ambit of the law to canvass for you because you have done so much for us. You rebuilt the Obafon and Mbakadoso roads. You also help us build Maracana Stadium for our youths.
“We are grateful and we would forever remain grateful for your stewardship and leadership that you have shown to the true people of Ajegunle.”
Also speaking, the Market Chairman, Mr. Izuchukwu Uba, assured Governor Sanwo-Olu of the trader’s support in Saturday’s gubernatorial election.
Traders at the market thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for the good gesture promising to come out enmasse on Saturday to vote for him and all APC candidates.
Meanwhile, former Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayo Fayose, on Wednesday drummed support for Governor Sanwo-Olu, calling on Lagos residents to re-elect the Governor on Saturday.
Fayose who was joined by Governor Sanwo-Olu at the local wings of the Murtala Muhammed Airport spoke to taxi drivers at the airports and urged them to come out in large numbers and vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the March 18 governorship poll.
“Sanwo-Olu is our candidate. Let us all come out on Saturday to re-elect him,” Fayose urged the Airport taxi drivers.
Governor Sanwo-Olu promised to address all the issues raised by the Airport taxi drivers during his meeting with them.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
15 MARCH 2023
President Muhammadu Buhari rejoices with Vice President Oluyemi Oluleke Osinbajo, GCON, SAN on the occasion of his 66th birthday, March 8, 2023.
The President equally felicitates with the entire Osinbajo family, wishing them many happy returns, as their son, husband and father turns another year, in good health and sound mind.
President Buhari lauds the sterling service the celebrant has provided to the country, as an academic, Attorney-General of Lagos State (1997-2007), and Vice President (2015 till date).
He applauds the deft way Osinbajo, a pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has combined scholarship with governance, and pastoral work, commending such dedication to the younger generation whom the Number 2 man serves as a torchbearer to.
President Buhari wishes the Vice President and his family joyful celebration, and greater grace ahead.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
March 8, 2023
PRESIDENT BUHARI CALLS ON NIGERIANS IN DIASPORA TO SUPPORT TINUBU’S GOVERNMENT
– Commends their contributions to national development
President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Doha, Qatar, called on Nigerians living in the country to support President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as he takes over the reins of government on May 29.
Speaking at a Town Hall meeting as part of his visit to the State of Qatar, President Buhari said his administration set forward to emplace credible, transparent and fair elections which will conclude on Saturday, March 11, with the Governorship and State Assembly elections. He therefore called on them to “support the incoming government of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, so that Nigeria will continue to be the beacon of hope and prosperity in our continent and an example for other African countries to emulate.”
Speaking further, the President acknowledged the noble roles that Nigerians in Diaspora all over the world have been playing in the development of Nigeria, adding that his administration had approved a National Diaspora Policy, and supported the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) all the way to develop programmes for the engagement of Nigerians in the Diaspora for the ‘ambassadors’ to contribute their quota towards the development of their fatherland.
In his remarks, the Nigerian Ambassador to the State of Qatar, Yakubu Ahmed congratulated Buhari President on conducting successful Presidential and National Assembly elections on February 25, 2023. He said the process has proven that Nigeria’s democracy is indeed strong while praying for an equally successful Governorship and State Assembly elections.
Ambassador Ahmed informed the President that Nigeria and the State of Qatar have maintained brotherly bilateral relationship since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 2013 noting there are currently about 7,000 Nigerians residing in Qatar, and gainfully engaged in diverse areas of human endeavours.
“I’m proud to inform you, Your Excellency that majority of our nationals in Doha are professionals who have excelled in their chosen careers, playing critical roles in healthcare, safety, oil and gas, aviation, construction, among other sectors,” he added
Speaking on behalf of the Nigerian community in the country, Dr Arabo Ibrahim, a Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, said he had every reason to thank the President especially for restoring peace in the North-eastern part of Nigeria. “Our people were chased out of Mubi in Adamawa State by Boko Haran terrorists, peace is back. Now we go there and sleep peacefully. There is a lot of food now. People from the neighboring countries even come to buy food in Nigeria,” he added.
Another member of the community, Professor Akintunde Akinade, also thanked President Buhari for conducting an electoral process “alluded to as one of the best. We have gone through elections many times before and we all know what it’s all about. This is an election where money has taken a back seat. We’re very grateful to see what has happened this time in the presidential election. Thank you for bringing sanity to the country and the electoral process. We wish that this would continue.”
He equally lauded the President for the infrastructural revolution in the country, his anti-corruption war, keeping Nigeria together as well as his well-known democratic crusade in Africa. “I really want to thank you for your unwavering critique of African Presidents that really want to stay in office forever. I wish you a well-deserved rest,” he added.
The event was put together by the Chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri Erewa.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 8, 2023
PRESIDENT BUHARI COMMISERATES WITH VICTIMS OF LAGOS AUTO SPARE PARTS MARKET
President Muhammadu Buhari has learned with deep sadness the death of a 65-year-old security guard, the loss of personal property and means of livelihood of some hardworking Nigerians at the Akere Spare Parts market in the Apapa Ajegunle area of Lagos State.
The President’s deepest sympathies are with the traders and their families, who bear the brunt of this unfortunate incident and are at crossroads of what to do after this temporary setback.
The President is equally concerned that a similar fire incident occurred at the popular Balogun market a few weeks ago, calling on relevant authorities to take precautions to stem the tide.
While the full extent and cause of the damage is being assessed, President Buhari commends the Lagos State Fire Service for responding to the incident, salvaging a nearby filling station with a 33,000 litres PMS tanker, amongst other adjoining buildings.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 8, 2023
Rivers Guber Election
Vote PDP’s Sim Fubara For Youth Empowerment, Free Health Services, Peace, Prosperity Of Rivers State – Obuah
…Says, Sim’s Candidacy Is Divine
The Director-General of the Rivers PDP Campaign Council, Bro. Felix Obuah has called on the good people of the State to go to the polls on Saturday, March 11, 2023 and vote for Sir Siminalayi Fubara of the PDP, assuring that their votes would bring about sustainable peace, economic growth, youth empowerment, free healthcare services for pregnant women, aging mothers and all round prosperity in the state.
Speaking ahead of the governorship polls which hold on Saturday, March 11, Bro. Obuah said the opportunity has again presented itself for Rivers people to prove that no other party exists in the state other than the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Bro. Obuah told Rivers people that Sim, when voted into office would focus on engineering the reindustrialization of Rivers State with appropriate policies, scale and institutional measures in partnership with the private sector as the propelling force for economic growth and development.
“Sim Fubara would build on the gains of the Wike administration. He will develop a 10-year reindustrialization master plan to provide the road map for achieving the industrial transformation of the state while encouraging private investors to take over and revive state companies”, Bro. Obuah said.
He noted that because the PDP is a party whose foundation is rooted in God, their choice of candidates has always had the backing of God.
“This assertion was proven with the choice of Governor Nyesom Wike in 2015, and you could see that despite the battles he went through, God preserved him, and the result is the all-round prosperity which his administration has brought to the State.
“God has once again given us a man, Sir Sim Fubara. This is another opportunity Rivers people should grab with two hands by filing out in their millions to vote for Sir Sim Fubara. A vote for Sim is a vote for continuity and consolidation of the gains brought by Governor Nyesom Wike”, Bro. Obuah stated.
A vote for Sim is a vote for peace, progress and more developments in Rivers State”, Obuah declared.
Bro. Obuah told people of the state to use the expected election of Sir Sim Fubara as a show of appreciation to Governor Wike for the great works he did for the state, for the eight years mandate given to him.
Bro. Obuah who was the immediate past State Chairman of the PDP as well as former Sole Administrator of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) said by turning out en masse on Saturday to vote for Sim Fubara, this generation of Rivers people would be writing their names in gold and posterity would continue to celebrate them.
He also charged the electorate to vote for all PDP House of Assembly candidates on the ballot, stressing that as a family, the executive and the legislature in the state are like brothers of same parents who speak and understand one language.
Jerry Needam
Secretary, Directorate of Publicity
& Communications
Rivers PDP Campaign Council.
Wednesday, March 8, 2023
Dum Dekor Appeals To Ogonis To Vote Siminalayi Fubara
With three days to the all important Governorship and State Assembly Elections in Rivers State, the member representing Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dumnamene Robinson Dukor has appealed to Ogonis to troop out en masse and vote for the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sir Siminalayi Fubara.
He said it is crystal clear from all indices that Sim Fubara is a divine choice for Rivers people, adding that his candidacy satisfies both the upland and riverine requirements in the State.
Reeling out strong reasons why Ogonis should vote for Sim Fubara, Dum Dekor said: “Sim is our brother from Opobo and Opobo is in the Rivers South East Senatorial District. He has supported and touched the lives of many Ogoni people even from his days as a school teacher at Eleme.
“Sim is humble and well educated. He has no issues with anybody in Ogoni and Rivers State at large. He will bring development to Ogoni which is something we have been yearning for. Sim definitely stands out among the other governorship candidates.
“As each of the other candidates in the race has one or two scores to settle with people, Sim has nothing against anyone.
Sim Fubara is Godfearing, charismatic, pragmatic, peaceful, impeccable, resourceful, dependable, compassionate, dedicated to service, humane and a careful talker who chooses his words. Sim Fubara does not have the ‘boys’ like many other governorship candidates”.
The federal lawmaker urged the Ogoni people to use their votes to prove to Sim Fubara that he is indeed one of their own.
“If we say that Ogoni is PDP and PDP is Ogoni, then another opportunity has come for us to make it real. We should cast all our votes for Sir Sim Fubara on Saturday”, he said.
Dum Dekor also appealed to Ogonis, especially the people of Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency to vote for the PDP House of Assembly candidates in Khana Constituencies 1 and 2, as well as that of Gokana Constituency.
“From Gokana Constituency, we will vote for Dumle Maol. He is a tried and tested lawmaker who has proven his mettle as an able representative of Gokana people. He should return to the Assembly.
“The good people of Khana Constituency 1 and 2 should vote massively for Hon. Mrs. Barile Nwakoh and Barrister DineBari Loolo, for Khana Constituency 1 and 2 respectively. They have been carefully chosen because we believe in their capacities to deliver. Give them your votes and be rest assured they won’t disappoint us”, Dum Dekor assured.
Signed:
Rt. Hon. Dum Dekor Media Team
‘Lagos is operating far below its potential’, Funso Doherty shares #WithChude
The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Lagos State, Funsho Doherty sits with Chude Jideonwo, host of #WithChude on a Lagos Election Special, Eko l’ on pebi, featuring the leading candidates in the Lagos Governorship election, asides the incumbent Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu who was unavoidably unavailable for the interview.
On the interview, Doherty discusses the gaps in the current leadership in the state and what he wants to do differently.
“My overall sense is that Lagos is operating far below its potential. Lagos is blessed with a lot of natural advantages relative to other cities in Nigeria. The managers of this city have been entrusted with a lot. If I look at the last 23 years that Lagos has been governed by essentially one ruling entity, even though you have had different governors, I think of where we are relative to where we could have been, and the difference is very wide”.
Reacting to the claim that overpopulation makes it difficult for the current government to do more than is presently being done, he said, “I think that is a narrative, I don’t think there is evidence to support it. Yes, we have a large population but remember that Lagos’s budget this year alone is about 1.7 trillion. I think that there is always an explanation for why we are where we are and there will always be some ground that you cover as a result of just time passing, to the extent that you spend 1.7 billion in passing. You will do some things but the question is are we doing the right things? Are we getting value for the resources that we are spending? What is the overall outcome for all of what we are doing, is the society becoming more equitable, or are the resources of the society becoming more and more concentrated?”
Doherty also shared from his TIGER agenda on what he plans to do when in office, “One of the first things that we will do is, we will unwind the revenue collection agreement that the government have with the AlphaBeta agency, we think that it is something that doesn’t happen in a modern society like Lagos. We don’t see the reason why you should have a small group of people with limited transparency accounting for the revenue and keeping a share of those revenues. For the transportation project, the rail project has been on for almost 16 years, there is no reason why that should be, and there is no transparency around those things. A large public works project like that should be in the public domain, and people should know. When we come into office, we will open it up and share the information with Lagosians and understand what the issues are. And we will ensure that the project is delivered or amended as needed”.
On the evidence to back the perception that Lagos has been being ruled by the same entity for the past 23 years, he shared, ‘I think there are significant arrangements that you can point to, and the AlphaBeta arrangement is one of them, that is something that originated from one administration many years ago, I don’t think any governor that comes from the platform of the ruling party can do anything about it when they come. This thing that I talk about is even in the Agbero space, some of the actions that were taken in the issue with NURTW the other day and how that was handled, you can see that there is a coziness in that relationship that goes beyond the person that is currently occupying the seat. Even some of the actions of the governor in relating to whom we might think of as the principal – Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The other day, our governor was in Chatham House answering questions for ex-governor Tinubu. There is perception and reality and all of them apply in this case’.