Urhobo News

By Garba Shehu

President Muhammadu Buhari marks the age of 79 on Friday 17, without the joy of being with the family and the country he governs, seeking to maximize bilateral benefits in critical areas of Nigeria’s safety, survival and economic development in a distant country, Turkey.

As President in the last six years, he has had several achievements to his credit. But there are also challenges that need to be met in the balance of 15 months before he leaves office upon the completion of two terms in office.

As with all the countries around the globe, the coronavirus pandemic has thrown the biggest challenge to the Buhari administration, for the obvious reason that it kept under attack, not only the health of citizens but the economy and environment.

For a country and a continent designated for a world record of positive cases and deaths, yet turning in the lowest in terms of numbers, the explanation our people give here is to say “Thank God,” and they move on.

Nothing wrong with thanking God for everything that happens or does not, for, without His grace, nothing can truly get done (or undone).

But the Almighty uses the instrumentality of humans to get some of these things done.

These last two years, President Buhari led a government that believes in science and in our doctors that put in place an effective mechanism to check the spread of the pandemic and we are where we are today because this dedicated team has responded in the most capable manner any country could ever do.

He gave the experts the latitude of freedom and resources to lead us out of the worst-case scenarios using especially well-thought-out non-pharmaceutical protections and these, in the face of the denial of fair access to vaccines to us by those who make them, have really done us wonders.

Although high figures for active cases, new cases and deaths are rising lately and a fourth wave is being feared in many quarters, the proven competence of our administrators, whose aptitude, agility and appropriate sense of timing have drawn commendation from no less a body than the United Nations gives us the reassuring solace that we will wade through the muddle by getting it right.

Increasing awareness about health and hygiene is helping the country fight the deadly coronavirus disease pandemic.

The campaign against open defecation is catching on in all the states and the only way for the momentum is up and up.

President Buhari was handed an economy in 2015 just on the verge of a recession. It was sluggish due to internal as well as external factors, all these compounded by the fall of oil prices occasioned by global recession.

The new administration surprised itself by pulling the economy out of recession in less than two years.

Just as this was being celebrated, the COVID-19 pandemic has added to the global economic woes, and there we were, back in recession just as did everyone.

Yet again, the careful handling and management helped us out of a second recession in six months, setting an unbeaten record on how not to suffer a recession.

The current and projected economic growth figures are quite encouraging and if government measures being worked out to curb the existing high food inflation work well as they should; unemployment figures which are officially at 34 percent are being forced downwards through growth, especially in agriculture which President Buhari saw as the silver lining from the very beginning, the economy will continue to recover at a faster rate than projected.

Today, the economy is back on the path of growth after two consecutive recessions and it is noteworthy that the administration’s priority sectors, especially ICT, agriculture and solid minerals continue to lead the growth of the now diversified economy.

Inflation has maintained a downward streak and external reserves have stayed on healthy levels throughout these periods.

Exports have grown and have remained in an upward trajectory in agriculture, raw materials, solid minerals and manufactured goods, setting a clear tone that we are ready for a leading role in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCTA), which is the largest world free trade organization.

Agriculture growth could be attributed to bumper harvests in rice and other agricultural communities which have been aggressively promoted by the lending schemes put in place by the Central Bank of Nigeria and other commercial banks, the revival of the fertilizer industry which has seen such production plants grow from only four in 2015 to nearly 40 at the moment, employing thousands directly and indirectly and saving the country USD 200 billion in import bills and more than N60 billion in government subsidies.

However, smuggling across the country’s vast land borders still remains a dark spot amidst the ray of hope for total national food security.

The APC government led by President Buhari has been challenged by the worrisome activities of bandits, now classified as terrorists and the incidents of attacks on communities especially that which pitches farmers against herders.

Both have had the combined effect of disturbing the nation’s social fabric.

The government has a two-pronged strategy in dealing with the clashes: one by addressing immediate security and then dealing with scarcity of land.

Additional police and military units have been deployed to the affected states to address the former. They have already had some noticeable successes against militia groups.

But the increased presence will also enable quicker response to distress calls to prevent attacks before they happen.

The National Livestock Transformation Plan remedies this through a phased transition from herding to ranching.

This shall allow both parties to recognise for themselves the solution, rather than having it thrust upon them.

Notably, a majority of the states-which control land- and the major farmer and herder associations have welcomed the initiative.

Boko Haram which is now reduced to a shell of its former self now holds no territory and not a single militant incident has been recorded for years in the Niger Delta.

Of course, there is still more to do, but the President’s determination is to end all the conflicts to keep citizens safe.

The main reason for the defeat of the PDP in 2015 was corruption.

The present administration at the centre led by President Muhammadu Buhari has so far presented a corrupt-free image of itself.

It has also succeeded in abolishing grand corruption at the top and as attested to by the former American President, Donald Trump, when the President visited him in 2016, the government has significantly brought down the level of corruption in the whole county.

It is, however not lost on anyone that corruption is fighting back.

In this country, politics is often considered as a synonym of corruption.

The previous government came under huge criticism for scandals like that discovered in arms procurements in the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) which transformed itself into a major source of funding of the PDP; NNPC crude oil thefts, broadband spectrum licensing scandal, oil subsidy scam and so many others but the present government has not faced any such corruption charges.

Minister Diezani Allison-Maduekwe who has so far forfeited cash denominated variously to the Federal Government: USD 153 million, N23.4 billion, and USD 4m and USD 5m in separate counts; a former Director-General of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) forfeited GBP 578,080, and the Ikoyi Apartment Owners from whom USD43.4m; N23m and GBP 27,800 respectively, were recovered are part of the success of the war against corruption waged by the government.

Also, the hidden owner of the N449.6 million cash, in Lagos, is still unable to step forward to say “it’s mine”; the ex-Naval Chiefs who have forfeited N1.8 billion; the Governors Forum which surrendered N1.4 billion and the major oil marketers, from whom the EFCC has so far seized N328.9 billion.

Banks in the country which equally joined the party while it lasted, gave back N27.7 billion they “ate,” the scion of the Akinjides, Jumokes and her N650 million as well as those scammers in INEC who coughed out N1 billion all tell a story of the success of the war against corruption under Buhari.

But perhaps the greatest game-changer in the war against corruption is the institution of those measures that seek to stop such incidents from happening.

These include the biggest tax revolution since independence, VAIDS, now being implemented, and which many rich citizens are made to pay outstanding taxes; the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) that has saved the nation billions paid to ghost workers, the Treasury Single Account (TSA) and the Open Treasury Portal tell the citizens where their money is and how it is being spent.

There is also the Whistle Blower policy by which the government is able to recover stolen or concealed assets through information provided by citizens.

This has changed the moral tone of the business transactional space in the country. The whistleblower is entitled to between 2.5% to 5.0 % of the amount recovered.

The government’s moves on Ease of Doing Business have attracted international attention and investment and significantly improved the ranking of Nigeria as a place of doing business, in fact achieving a place in the World Bank’s top 10 reforming economies.

But this is how the World Bank saw Nigeria: “Overall, the 10 top improvers implemented the most regulatory reforms in the area of getting credit, starting a business, dealing with construction permits and paying taxes,’ the report said.

Someone said President Buhari should be named as infrastructure President.

Hear the President:

“Infrastructure is vital to economic development. As you are aware, this administration has given special attention to the infrastructural transformation of our country. This is in consonance with the CHANGE philosophy of the administration. Such projects and programmes form part of our contribution to national development, which are tangible for all to see.”

In the last six-and-half years, President Buhari has taken historic decisions which have changed the country, top among which was his signing into law, the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) amidst cheers by the Nigerian business community; the Climate Change law and the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), all of which are now part of our laws.

PIA came after lengthy negotiations with the states, the whole of the oil industry, the oil-producing communities. By taking all of them on board, this success broke a twenty-year jinx.

Yet another jinx broken was the very recent decision for an out-of-court settlement of the dispute involving a businessman and the government of Nigeria that had prevented the take-off of the Mambila Hydro Electric Power Project, a development that may see it leave the drawing boards after nearly 50 years.

On the external front, President Buhari’s towering figure as an honest leader and an international statesman continues to generate a successful run in our foreign relations.

Security and political stability in West Africa have posed a tough challenge for the government of late. Little wonder that the riot act was read by the President at the ECOWAS Summit last weekend in Abuja, warning that constitutional amendments to elongate term tenure, increasingly becoming the norm in the sub-region will continue to fuel instability. It must stop.

In 2015, Presidential candidate Buhari stood on a platform to secure the country, improve the economy and fight corruption and won.

He did again in 2019 and the current challenges facing the country, though not new will only make him give his best for the country.

Politicians seeking political capital in the prevailing security situation in the country and the sections of the media making the problem appear as intractable so as to sell copies have a shock waiting for them because this one is a way President Buhari is determined to win before he leaves office in 2023.

What the President has achieved in the past six and a half years is for the nation and its people.

Sooner than later, the frustrations we face are challenges to be overcome and this period will one day be written as the golden period of Nigeria’s history.

Garba Shehu is Senior Special Assistant to the President, Media & Publicity

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES BUHARI AT 79

…Says President is courageous, honest leader

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated President Muhammadu Buhari on his 79th birthday. The President clocks 79th on Friday.

Governor Sanwo-Olu described President Buhari as a courageous and passionate leader, whose commitment to the growth and development of Nigeria is worthy of emulation.

In a congratulatory message issued on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, Governor Sanwo-Olu said President Buhari has provided honest and transparent leadership in the country.

He said President Buhari has demonstrated unparalleled leadership skills, patriotism, integrity and courage in steering the ship of Nigeria since he assumed office on May 29, 2015.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Lagos State, I congratulate President Muhammadu Buhari on the occasion of his 79th birthday. You have sacrificed the greater part of your life in service of our dear country.

“You have contributed immensely to the unity, growth and development of Nigeria right from your youthful days till date, having served in different capacities as Minister of Petroleum Resources, Head of State and currently President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Commander -in- Chief of the Armed Forces.

“I hereby join family, friends, associates, leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in celebrating President Buhari’s 79th birthday. I wish our President more prosperous years in good health and wisdom as he continues to serve our dear nation,” the governor said.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

DECEMBER 16, 2021

PRESIDENT BUHARI COMMENDS SEGUN AWOLOWO ON TENURE AS NEPC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

President Muhammadu Buhari has given plaudits to the immediate past Executive Director of Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr Segun Awolowo, saying he has put our locally made products on the world map.

Receiving the former E.D at State House on Wednesday, the President stated: “You have raised the profile of exports in Nigeria, and put our goods on the map internationally.

“Your efforts are highly commendable, and I’m glad that the Zero Oil plan birthed by this administration is here to stay.

“We must prepare for a Nigerian economy after oil, and make sure that the economy works for all. Our States and 774 local governments have roles to play.”

Mr Awolowo thanked the President for showing confidence in him to lead NEPC towards reshaping Nigeria’s economy beyond oil.

“I am here to greet my President, and to thank him for showing confidence in me, and to also thank him for making the non-oil agenda his legacy,” he said, adding: “Six years ago, you challenged me and the NEPC, when you said Nigeria must begin to behave as if we have no more oil. That single statement became our mantra at NEPC and drove us to develop the Zero Oil plan, which is now an integral part of national economic policy.”

Awolowo’s tenure as Executive Director ended in November 2021, after an 8-year period of two terms. He led the NEPC to define the Zero Oil plan, Nigeria’s national roadmap to diversify from dependence on crude oil exports. The plan is in full implementation and is refocusing national attention to scale up production and exports of other products to generate foreign exchange, including; cocoa, palm oil, sesame, cotton, petrochemicals, fertilizer, gold, cashew, shea butter, amongst other products. The aim is to generate up to $30 billion annually from non-oil products within the next 10 years, which is approximately as much as Nigeria makes from crude oil today. This is also expected to generate at least half a million jobs a year, linked to export-related activities.

“The export revolution is in full swing, and this is because of the vision and support I received from Mr President, so I am here to say thank you,” said Mr Awolowo.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

December 16, 2021

Press Statement

Obuah Charges Professionals To Join Campaign For Cleaner Rivers State

…As RIWAMA Boss Bags Business Administrator Of The Year Award

The Sole Administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA), Bro. Felix Obuah has called on professionals in all strata of society, to join the ongoing campaign against indiscriminate disposal of wastes, as well as comply with the dumping hours of 6pm to 12 midnight, to achieve a cleaner state.

Bro. Obuah who made the appeal while receiving an award as ‘Business Administrator of the Year’ on Thursday in Port Harcourt, said the task before the professionals and all those residing and doing business in the state, is not only to sustain the current clean state of Rivers, but to return it to its famous status as the Garden City of Nigeria.

He charged members of the Institute of Business Administration and Knowledge Management (IBAKM) who bestowed the prestigious award on him, to join hands with the administration of Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike to do the needful and build a greater state that would be celebrated by posterity.

“How do we do this?  I think one way of achieving this is by keeping our environment clean and safe all the time.

We cannot achieve this if we allow the roads and streets to be littered with garbages.

We must fight against indiscriminate dumping of wastes in and around our environment.  We must ensure that wastes are not disposed outside of the approved dumping hours of 6 pm to 12 midnight”, Bro. Obuah said.

The RIWAMA boss, who spoke through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Pastor Jerry Needam, recalled the sad spectacle of a former Permanent Secretary in the state who was recently arrested by the Agency’s Monitoring Team for littering the road with large quantity of refuse.

“As professional business administrators and knowledge managers, you form the elite and senior citizens class, and the society is looking up to you for good examples.  I urge you to use your platforms and vigorously campaign for restoration of the Garden City status of our dear state”, Bro. Obuah said.

The RIWAMA Sole Administrator expressed reservation over recent incidents of dumping of new-born babies on the median of roads and described the act as the height of cruelty.

Vowing that the Agency would not hesitate to bring down the full weight of the laws against any culprit caught in the act, Bro. Obuah further appealed to IBAKM to become an Ambassador of RIWAMA and promote clean and safe habits among the citizenry.

In his opening speech, Chairman of the occasion and Hon. Commissioner for Information, Pastor Paulinus Nsirim commended the Institute for the three-pronged activities namely membership investiture, induction and certification/inauguration of the South South branch of the Association of Business Administration and Knowledge Management Professionals.

Represented by the Director of Public Enlightenment and Sensitization in the Ministry, Mr. Celestine Ogolo, the commissioner said the timing of the event was apt while also commended the organizers for making Port Harcourt, the host city.

“The array of inductees shows that the Institute is hitting the right target in the quest to develop the knowledge economy.  I urge all inductees to make use of this opportunity to ensure that the knowledge economy is expanded”, he said.

Pastor Nsirim revealed the conscious revolution by the Governor Nyesom Wike administration to build the knowledge industry in the state, pointing at the wonderful attention being given to improve all tertiary institutions in the state.

The Commissioner also charged the professionals as well as members of the public to key into the ongoing advocacy to change the ugly narrative that was painted about the state, stating that Rivers State belongs to all, and that whatever affects the state, affects everyone living and doing business in it.

Earlier in his welcome address, the President and Chairman, Advisory Council of IBAKM, Dr. Gangadhar Joshi outlined the objectives as well as mission and vision of the Institute, assuring that the decision by the inductees to become members was, in his words, “one of the best career development choice you have ever made in life”.

“The Institute of Business Administration and Knowledge Management is a unique and an innovative global professional body duly licensed and statutorily empowered for advancement of business administration and knowledge management profession in Nigeria and the global community”, he said.

Highlight of the event was the Investiture, Induction and Certification of over 20 professionals, including the Sole Administrator of RIWAMA, Bro. Felix Obuah into the institute.  Representatives of the RIWAMA Sole Administrator at the event, Pastor Jerry Needam (SA, Media and Publicity); Hon. Dormene Mbea (SA, Intervention) and Hon. Hope Don Pedro (SA, Monitoring) were all inducted as members of the prestigious professionals institute.

Jerry Needam

Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to

Bro. Felix Obuah, Sole Administrator,

Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA).

PRESIDENT BUHARI TO ATTEND TURKEY-AFRICA PARTNERSHIP SUMMIT IN ISTANBUL

President Muhammadu Buhari will on Thursday leave Abuja for Istanbul, Turkey to attend the third Turkey-Africa Partnership Summit, hosted by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of the Republic of Turkey.

According to the organisers, the theme of the Summit is ‘‘Enhanced Partnership for Common Development and Prosperity’’ and the agenda includes reviewing the cooperation between African countries and Turkey since the last summit in 2014.

The third Turkey-Africa Partnership Summit is coming on the heels of President Erdogan’s recent State Visit to Nigeria during which several agreements in the fields of energy, defence industry, mining and hydrocarbons were signed to expand existing bilateral ties.

The Turkish leader had, during the visit to Nigeria, affirmed his commitment to immediately expand the volume of trade between the two countries to 5 billion dollars and the Nigerian delegation will seize the opportunity of the gathering in Istanbul to enhance cooperation with other partners for more trade and investment opportunities in the country.

It is expected that the Summit would provide guidelines and direction for cooperation with African countries for the next five years.

President Buhari will be accompanied on the trip by his wife, Aisha Buhari; the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama; Defence, Maj-Gen. Bashir Magashi (Rtd); FCT, Mohammed Bello; Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire; Agriculture, Mohammed Abubakar; Industry, Trade and Investment, Adeniyi Adebayo; the National Security Adviser, Maj.-Gen. Babagana Monguno (Rtd); and the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Ahmed Rufai Abubakar.

The President is expected back in Abuja on Sunday, December 19.

Garba Shehu

Senior Special Assistant to the President

(Media & Publicity)

December 16, 2021

PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS FIRST FEMALE VICE-CHANCELLOR, PROF. GRACE ALELE-WILLIAMS AT 89

President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with Grace Alele-Williams, Professor of Mathematics and First Nigerian female Vice-Chancellor at University of Benin, on her 89th birthday, December 16, 2021, rejoicing with the educationist for removing glass ceilings and paving way for women empowerment.

President Buhari congratulates the educationist on her achievements over many years, inspired by vision and hardwork, becoming the first female to earn a Ph.D in Nigeria, 1963, and using her resources to create opportunities for other women, particularly in getting education.

The President notes the historic role Prof. Alele-Williams played in sanitizing the University of Benin of cultism, and her many sacrifices in giving the younger generation a sense of purpose through guidance and counselling.

President Buhari joins family members, friends and academia in celebrating with the former Vice-Chancellor, whose honours include, Fellow of the Mathematical Association of Nigeria, Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Education, merit award winner of old Bendel State in Nigeria, regional Vice-President for Africa of the Third World Organization for Women in Science, Chairman of the African Mathematical Union Commission for Women in Mathematics and first President of the African Mathematical Union Commission on Women in Mathematics.

The President prays for good health and strength for the renowned scholar, consultant, publisher and administrator.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

December 15, 2021

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES HIS ROYAL MAJESTY OWONG (DR) EFFIONG BASSEY ARCHIANGA AT 58

President Muhammadu Buhari joins Akwa Ibom State Council of Chiefs in celebrating His Royal Majesty Owong (Dr) Effiong Bassey on his 58th birthday, congratulating the political scientist, businessman and administrator for dedicating his time and resources to service of community and humanity.

President Buhari notes the contributions of His Royal Highness to national development, particularly in sustenance of peace in the Niger Delta, and commitment in building his domain through education, and sensitization on civic responsibilities.

As the former two-term National Chairman of Traditional Rulers of Oil Minerals Producing Communities of Nigeria (TROMPCON), and now National Life Patron, turns 58, the President affirms that his role in development of the region remains exemplary.

President Buhari prays for the wellbeing of the royal father, who had served as State Chairman of Akwa Ibom Council of Chiefs for a long period.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

December 15, 2021

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU COMMISSIONS 744 HOMES IN SANGOTEDO

• LASG set to implement monthly tenancy on property occupancy, says Governor

• Gov vows to eradicate land grabbing menace

In line with his administration’s commitment to bridge the housing deficit and create affordable accommodation for residents, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday commissioned and delivered 744 home units at LagosHOMS Sangotedo Housing Scheme Phase I in Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of the State.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said the various homes being delivered to the public in the last two and half years is the administration’s way of building bridges and promoting the emergence of new communities that are resilient and responsive to both communal and individual aspirations.

The 744 home units in LagosHOMS Sangotedo Housing Scheme (Phase 1), which is the largest housing scheme to be completed by the present administration comprises 62 blocks of 12 homes each made up of a total of 248 one-bedroom, 248 two-bedrooms and 248 three bedrooms apartments.

The gated estate also has car park space for 492 cars within compounds and 406 at the general car park, external electrification provided from the National grid with an injection station of 15MVA and seven transformers of 500KVA capacity, water treatment and supply with a storage capacity of 192m3 and 680m3 capacity for the overhead and groundwater tanks respectively, sewage system with a treatment capacity of 650m3 per day, street lights and 792 meters of dual carriageway and 856 metres of single carriageway.

Speaking at the commissioning of the housing project, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the event is a celebration of his administration’s commitment to fulfilling the promise the incumbent government made to Lagosians to reduce the housing deficit in the State by enhancing access to decent and affordable accommodation.

The Governor also disclosed that Lagos State Government is set to implement the enforcement of a monthly tenancy on property occupancy from next year.

He said: “As we can all observe in this housing estate and others that we have commissioned in various parts of the State; we don’t only build houses, we create homes in livable communities. We provide supporting infrastructure within the environment to add value to the lives of our people.

“We promote a sense of togetherness that transcends our tribal, religious and political differences. This is our own way of building bridges and promoting the emergence of new communities that are resilient and responsive to both communal and individual aspirations.”

Speaking on his administration’s plan to reduce rent burden through a monthly tenancy agreement scheme, Governor Sanwo-Olu said his government is determined to cater for numerous others who may not have plans or the ability to own homes, but have immediate needs for decent shelter.

He said: “We are at an advanced stage at enacting what we call the Lagos monthly tenancy agreement scheme. It is a scheme we are ready to develop with some of our financial institutions to be able to have a pull of funds where beneficiaries that are current tenants who are living in houses with flats but who are challenged to pay a yearly rent, would be able to approach the scheme and the scheme would help them pay their one year rent to the landlord. This will ensure that they don’t come cap in hand to borrow.

“We will look at the tenant’s salary or income and there will be a repayment plan on a monthly basis based on the scheme. The landlord would be happy because he has met his own scheme and the tenant will also be happy because he or she doesn’t need to rush to an uncle or aunty to meet up with a yearly rent.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu while speaking on his administration’s plan for those who cannot benefit from the Lagos State housing schemes, said the State Government is deepening its activities in the area of land allocation and speeding up the formalisation procedures for land acquisition and proper title.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said there should be orderliness and sanity in the housing sector, promising to tackle the problem of land grabbing and prevent the citizens from obtaining improper title on the land they are buying from various communities.

Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Moruf Akinderu-Fatai said the continuous provision of decent homes for the residents of Lagos State has become a hallmark of distinction of the present administration led by Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu.

“Within the past 26 months, in line with its pledge and mandate, the State Government has delivered 14 housing schemes in various parts of the State. In addition to the ones delivered, there are still other schemes that are virtually ready and waiting in the wings to be released to the people.

“This transformational drive which is based on the THEMES agenda is powered by the passion to sustain and surpass the status of excellence already achieved by our dear State. And it is definitely an all-encompassing and continuous work as can be seen in all areas of endeavours in the State. This yearning for further improvement is constantly fueled by an innate and unified desire of the leadership to give the best to the people at all times,” he said.

The Commissioner for Housing also spoke on Phase II of the LagosHOMS Sangotedo Housing Scheme, which according to him when delivered will be an additional 444 homes to the housing scheme in the area to impact greatly on the housing deficit statistics in the area.

Hon. Akinderu-Fatai also encouraged Lagosians to continue to support the State Government in all ways, noting that “Our taxes and other positive involvements provide the necessary ingredients for progressive and peaceful governance. I know that with our vibrant support, our Governor will continue to fulfill his mandate to the good people of the State,” he said.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

DECEMBER 15, 2021

R-L:  THE SERIKI OF JIWA CHIEFDOM, HRH. IDRIS MUSA; FCT MINISTER, MALLAM MOHAMMED MUSA BELLO; REGIONAL MANAGER, JULIUS BERGER NIGERIA PLC, ENGR. OLIVER BERGER; FCT MINISTER OF STATE, DR. RAMATU TIJJANI ALIYU;  AND THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF GWAGWA CONCESSIONS, FAROUK SALEH DURING THE PROJECT FLAG OFF CEREMONY IN GWAGWA ABUJA , RECENTLY.

R-L: THE MINISTER OF THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, MALLAM MOHAMMED MUSA BELLO; REGIONAL MANAGER, REGIONAL CENTRAL NORTH, JULIUS BERGER NIGERIA PLC, ENGR. OLIVER BERGER; FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY MINISTER OF STATE, DR. RAMATU TIJJANI ALIYU; AND THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF GWAGWA CONCESSIONS, FAROUK SALEH; INSPECTING A 3D-PROTOTYPE OF THE ENTIRE PROJECT AT THE LAND SWAP INITIATIVE FLAG OFF CEREMONY IN ABUJA, RECENTLY.

THE HONOURABLE MINISTER, FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, MALLAM MOHAMMED MUSA BELLO, DELIVERING HIS SPEECH DURING THE OFFICIAL SITE HANDOVER AND INAUGURATION OF LAND SWAP INITIATIVE INFRASTRUCTURAL WORKS FOR GWAGWA DISTRICT ABUJA PHASE IV NORTH, FCT, RECENTLY.

“NO ONE CAN WRITE THE HISTORY OF THE FCT WITHOUT MENTIONING JULIUS BERGER

…WE ARE VERY PROUD TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH THE COMPANY IN THIS CITY.” 

                                                – MALLAM MOHAMMED MUSA BELLO, FCT MINISTER

The Hon. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mallam Mohammed Musa Bello, has said that the nation’s leading and most reliable engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, has a sound, unmatched and continuing recorded infrastructural development history in the FCT. Bello made this statement on Tuesday, at the Official Site Handover and inauguration of Gwagwa District Abuja Phase IV North, FCT, which is to be developed under the FCTA’s Land Swap Initiative. The Minister emphasized the importance of the Land Swap initiative. According to Bello, the programme was drawn to remedy the infrastructure deficit in the FCT by swapping land with private investors, who would in turn provide the necessary infrastructure.

Bello explained that the ceremony signals full resumption of the Land Swap Initiative, which would pave way for provision of the desired infrastructure in the areas earmarked for the development. He said the initiative, came about when it became very clear that there was no way the FCT could be developed using the normal annual budgetary allocations, because of the astronomical manner the City had developed both in terms of science and population. He stated that the project was one in the series of projects that are going to be flagged-off before the end of the current administration, adding that the FCTA is going to be very tough in ensuring the protection of the interest of the State, people and private partners. He explained that the Government grants land to private investors, through Public Private Partnership, to boost infrastructure provision in the City. According to him, investors are expected to within a 10-year development plan facilitate provision of infrastructure development in the given site, and encourage real estate development in line with the standard set by the FCTA.

The FCT Minister expressed satisfaction in the choice of contractor for the project saying that, “Julius Berger has a sound recorded infrastructural development history in the FCT…. I am so happy, that this particular project is being done in partnership with Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. There is no way you can write the history of the Federal Capital Territory, without mentioning Julius Berger, which as we all know is 100 per cent Nigerian. We are very proud to be associated with the company in this City. We hope that as some point in the future, we will come here and see what the construction leader, JBN has done”.

In her address, the Hon. Minister of State of the FCT, Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu said, “the Land Swap Initiative is a testament of our commitment to the provision of critical infrastructures for FCT residents in line with Mr. President’s mandate for the administration. This is also a bold step by the FCT Administration towards resolving the burdensome challenge of infrastructure funding through budgetary allocation. The importance of this project therefore cannot be over-emphasized, given the abundant investment opportunities embedded in the Land Swap Programme. This initiative will lead to greater inflow of revenue and economic activities, and gainful employment for both youths and women alike”.

Earlier, the FCTA Permanent Secretary, Olusade Adesola, explained that the return to the land swap initiative followed directive of President Muhammadu Buhari to the Ministers to ensure continuation of ongoing projects. Adesola said it is a capital intensive project by a private company in line with the Land Swap Policy, aimed at assisting the FCTA to accelerate the development of the FCT.

Also in attendance at the event were the Permanent Secretary FCTA, Mr. Olusade Adesola; the Chief of Staff to the Minister, Malam Bashir Mai-Bornu; the Executive Secretary of the FCDA, Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmed; Mandate Secretaries of the FCTA, the Chief of Jiwa, HRH Idris Musa and other officials of the FCTA.

The Julius Berger delegation to the project flag off ceremony was led by the company’s Regional Manager, Region Central North, Engr. Oliver Berger. Also in the Julius Berger team were Mr. Keuck Peter, Mr. James Agama and Ms Uzoma Olivia.

GOV AKEREDOLU COMMISSIONS 30.5KM AGBADO-ODE- ISINBODE-OMUO-EKITI ROAD

• Says Fayemi Has Laid Template Of Purposeful Leadership For Successor

Chairman of the Southwest Governors’ Forum and Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Tuesday commissioned the 30.5km Agbado-Ode- Isinbode-Omuo-Ekiti Road in Ekiti State.

Commissioning the road reconstructed by the John Kayode Fayemi administration, Governor Akeredolu commended the Ekiti State Governor and Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, for the successful completion of the project which he described as impactful.

Arakunrin Akeredolu noted that the impressive infrastructural development being witnessed across the length and breadth of Ekiti State, in spite of manifest downturn in the economic fortunes of the country, is the result of a carefully conceived and effectively implemented policies and programmes.

Stressing that the road being commissioned is strategic to real development, Governor Akeredolu said very important milestones have been covered and veritable templates of purposeful governance laid for any successor desirous of development.

The Governor stated that only a person with foresight and knowledge will appreciate the connection between road construction and economic activities.

Governor Akeredolu explained that there can be no effective rural integration system if there is no good road network, adding that infrastructural development is crucial to the enhancement of the conditions of living in the communities.

He said: “Agriculture-Extension services, agro-allied businesses can only become effective and impactful with the completion of projects, such as this one, the subject of our gathering

“I am made to understand that this road stretches through several farming communities. It also serves as a transit route, into and out of the State. travel time has been reduced by over two hours.

“In addition, this road will service some strategic assets of the State. Economic activities along this corridor will improve phenomenally. The living conditions of the people will witness significant impact. Motorists will heave deep sigh of relief. The boost is tremendous and exponential.”

The Governor, who said the destiny of Ondo and Ekiti States is intertwined, noted that the two states have had a long history of shared heritage and beneficial collaborations.

“I congratulate my brother, JKF, and his Rescuing Mission Team for making it possible for us to witness history. The people of Ekiti State, especially those whose habitation falls within this axis, must be happy for the completion of this impactful project, among several others which have been commissioned for the benefit of the people in the last three years of peaceful, purposeful and significantly impactful service.

“I recall, with great satisfaction, our struggle to emplace this people-oriented Government. Our determination to redirect this land of the just and brave to the path of decency has borne bountiful dividends.

“Very important milestones have been covered and veritable templates of purposeful governance laid for any successor, desirous of development. This should be expected in a State led with keen intellection.

“The completion and commissioning of this road project, devoid of loquacious grandstanding, is evidence that the man directing the affairs of the State is determined to bring to bear quality difference in the lives of the people.

“it is not only a promise kept. It also, and more importantly, confirms good judgement on the part of the good people of Ekiti State in re-electing this intellectual in 2018.

“I have had close working relationship with the Dr. Kayode Fayemi, at the Governor’s Forum, both nationally and at our Region, the South West. He is the current Chairman of the Forum at the national level.

“I confirm that he has led the Forum with uncharacteristic candour, diligence, focus and huge sense of inclusiveness. I commend him, most enthusiastically, for his commitment to the strategic and comprehensive approach to infrastructural development of Ekiti State. He has proved that it is possible to achieve so much with minimum resources,” Governor Akeredolu added

The Ondo State Governor enjoined the immediate communities benefitting from the project to take ownership and protect it keenly, stating that they must ensure that it is not subjected to abuse or misuse in any form for enduring benefit.

Governor Akeredolu was accompanied to the event by his Deputy, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bamidele Oleyelogun, and some other members of the House of Assembly; members of the state executive council led by the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; and other important dignitaries.

Osun State Governor, Mr. Gboyega Oyetola, and members of his state executive council also witnessed the event.

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

December 14, 2021.

PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS OLOWU OF OWU KINGDOM

President Muhammadu Buhari extends heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Ogun State, as well as the Royal family on the passing of the Olowu of Owu kingdom, Oba Adegboyega Dosunmu Amororo II.

The President joins the Ogun State Council of Obas and Nigerian film producers in mourning the demise of the respected First Class traditional ruler and the producer of TV soap, the Village Headmaster, recognized as the longest running Nigerian TV series for over 20 years.

President Buhari believes that the Olowu would be fondly remembered for his love and tireless work to champion the interests and well-being of his community.

The President notes that theatre practitioners in Nigeria and around the world as well as students of drama will remember Oba Dosunmu’s brilliant works on stage and screen, which have been preserved for the delight and education of the upcoming generation.

President Buhari prays that the memory of the late Oba will be a blessing to his family, friends and community as his soul returns to his Creator.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

December 15, 2021

PRESS RELEASE

FANFARE AS SANWO-OLU INAUGURATES 18-CLASSROOM SCHOOL, RECREATIONAL FACILITIES IN ELEMORO

• ‘Education access improved, promise kept’ – Governor

There will be no more long-distance trek from home to school for Junior Secondary School pupils in Elemoro community in Ibeju Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State.

A state-of-the-art school edifice has been handed over to the community by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Also built in the school premises is a college-size football pitch completed with 50mm-thick pile of grass and soft infills to ensure playability and fall absorption impact.

Built on 1.54 hectares of land, the imposing 18-classroom Elemoro Community Junior Secondary School was designed to offer learning services, recreational activity and extracurricular leisure.

The project, conceived by the Sanwo-Olu administration, was initiated as an intervention to address a shortfall in access to education in the community. Before the school was built, pupils in the town usually trekked a long distance to schools located outside the community.

Inaugurating the school built behind Area J Police Command in Elemoro, the Governor said the project was dear to his heart, as its delivery demonstrated fulfillment of his campaign pledge to Oke Odo-Elemoro-Iwerekun community.

Sanwo-Olu praised the town’s traditional ruler, Oba Tajudeen Elemoro, for freely donating the land on which the education projects are built. The Governor said his administration prioritised provision of infrastructure in education in recognition of the nexus between knowledge and development.

He said: “This newly constructed educational facility is a project that is dear to my heart and has made me extremely pleased, because it is a fulfilment of my promise to provide the Okeodo-Elemoro-Iwerekun community with a secondary school. What is more pleasing to me today is that, with the commissioning of this school, many children in this locality will now have access to quality secondary education.

“The infrastructure installed in the premises offers the platform through which the pupils can fulfill their dreams and ambitions for the future without having to travel kilometres to another community for secondary education. Our administration’s approach to constructing new schools, rehabilitating and revamping existing ones is all-encompassing; it makes a statement that we are taking the issue of security in our public schools very seriously.”

Aside the 18-classroom block, the school also has 12 standard classrooms, six special rooms for Home Economics, Technology, a studio for arts and music, science laboratory, library and ICT room. It also has teachers’ offices, sickbay, standard canteen block and over 30 toilet facilities.

Other recreational facilities built in the school include a six-lane sandwich athletics running track and a spacious seating arena.

Sanwo-Olu disclosed the State Government’s plans to build the senior secondary arm of the school in complementing the junior school. He said his administration’s vision in education was to ensure every child in public schools had unrestricted access to quality education. The obligation, he said, is being fulfilled with the infrastructure being delivered across schools.

The Governor reiterated his administration’s zero tolerance for bullying and organised intimidation in schools. He urged teachers and administrators to dedicate more time to students and give them listening ears.

He said: “To the children of Elemoro Community who will be resuming in this school next academic term, I want to congratulate you for the great opportunity this modern facility will provide to enable you achieve your dreams. The only way you can show your appreciation for this effort is to take your studies seriously and aim for excellent performance in your academics.”

Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Folasade Adefisayo, emphasised the importance of modern infrastructure to the delivery of quality education, stressing that access to conducive facilities would aid pupils realise their full potential.

Adefisayo praised Sanwo-Olu’s passion and sustained commitment to the provision of world-class infrastructure in public schools, describing the gesture as “exemplary”.

Special Committee for the Rehabilitation of Public Schools in Lagos State (SCRPS) supervised the construction of the school and ancillary facilities.

Inaugural football match and a gymnastic display by pupils preceded the formal commissioning of the school by the Governor.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

DECEMBER 14, 2021

WE’LL FULFILL PROMISES WE MADE, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI IN MEETING WITH ECOWAS PARLIAMENT

Nigeria will keep pledges made to the ECOWAS Parliament, and to the sub-regional body at large, President Muhammadu Buhari has said.

The President spoke Tuesday at State House, Abuja, while receiving a team from ECOWAS Parliament, led by the Speaker, Dr Sidie Mohammed Tunis.

He commended the parliament for planning to fill its positions subsequently through elections, which would be incorporated into general elections of member countries, noting that “it would be cost effective.”

On the construction of a parliament building in Abuja, President Buhari said he was pleased that the body was collaborating with the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, adding: “We will try to encourage the contractor. All promises we made to ECOWAS Parliament, and the sub-regional group at large, would be fulfilled.”

Speaker Tunis expressed sympathy to the government and people of Nigeria on the recent losses from terror attacks, saying Nigeria was resilient to defeat the terrorists.

He also applauded Nigeria for its many supports to the ECOWAS Parliament, informing that the plan is now to strengthen the body through electing its officials rather than their being appointed.

“When they are elected, they will be more committed, and the election would be tied to national polls of member countries,” the Speaker said.

He added that the vision for a parliament building in Abuja is that it would be completed before May, 2023, so that President Buhari would commission it before leaving office.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

December 14, 2021