News From Nigeria
HOW WOMEN CAN CONTRIBUTE TO A PEACEFUL SOCIETY, BY PRESIDENT BUHARI TO AFRICAN FIRST LADIES
Ø AISHA BUHARI ELECTED PRESIDENT OF AFLPM
President Muhammadu Buhari Monday in Abuja pledged support to the resolutions of the African First Ladies Peace Mission (AFLPM) aimed at promoting peace and development in the continent.
Addressing the opening ceremony of the 9th General Assembly of the AFLPM, the President also urged African Leaders and other stakeholders to support the women in realising their core objective of building a peaceful society.
The Nigerian leader expressed concern that peace has become an elusive subject that affects development in many regions of Africa.
”The activities of insurgents and bandits have led to more widespread displacement and poverty.
”It is not in doubt that women and children are the worst affected by the breakdown of peace. Therefore, as mothers, I believe, you are in a better position to drive the processes of peace and actions where necessary.
”Indeed, I’m happy to know that your forum has been working towards promoting peaceful coexistence within the continent in so many ways,” he said.
President Buhari congratulated the Nigerian First Lady, Dr Aisha Buhari, for acquiring a piece of land on behalf of all First Ladies for the development of a secretariat for the Mission in Abuja.
”It gladdens my heart to know that when completed the secretariat will serve several purposes including creating employment opportunities as well as generating income for sustainability,” he said.
The 9th General Assembly of the AFLPM unanimously elected the First Lady of Nigeria as the new President.
In her acceptance speech, Dr Aisha Buhari pledged to execute her new responsibility with total commitment, urging her colleagues to work in unison towards a glorious destiny for Africa.
”With all sense of humility, I accept my election as the incoming 9th President of the African First Ladies Peace Mission.
”I want to sincerely thank all my colleagues for your continuous support and understanding and for entrusting me with this great responsibility.
”I pledge to execute my responsibility with total commitment and in accordance to the Missions laid down regulations.
”Your Excellences, Gentlemen of the Press, as you are aware, the task before us is a collective commitment hence the cooperation of all us is needed for the overall success of the African First Ladies Peace Mission.
”On my own part, I assure you that I will discharge the affairs of my office with honesty, dedication and inclusivity.
”My dear colleagues as we conclude this Summit, let history guide us to ensure that the Africa we bequeath to our children today is better than the one we inherited.
”Let us commit ourselves to working together towards achieving a glorious destiny for all Africans,” she said.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 22, 2021
November 21, 2021
Press Statement
Adopt Akwa Ibom’s Template for Peace, PDP Counsels FG
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) charges the Federal Government to adopt the template for national peace and harmony as initiated and being implemented by Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa-Ibom state in the drive to achieve sustained peace and development in the PDP-controlled state.
The PDP says that such will help the Federal Government to combat the current spate of insecurity, disharmony, disagreements, tension, avoidable conflicts and restiveness in our country at this critical time in the history of our nation.
The party counsels the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government to immediately understudy the model of the Maintain Peace Movement (MPM) programme unveiled at the weekend by Governor Udom Emmanuel as part of his measure to engender peace and development in the state.
Our party insists that with the right template at the national level, our nation will come out of the woods and regain its pride of place among the comity of nations.
It is instructive to note that the Udom Emmanuel template has enabled Akwa-Ibom state government to effectively manage contending interests, achieve harmony among the political class, enhanced public/private partnership, create enabling atmosphere for greater citizen participation as well as harmonious living in a multifarious state.
Under the MPM template, the energies of all segments of the state’s population; the youths, political class, business community, professional groups, faith-based organizations, traditional institution and private individuals are being harnessed for the development of the state.
Our party commends Governor Udom Emmanuel’s commitment towards ensuring a peaceful state, a situation that enabled him to effectively deploy the resources available to the state to impact lives, create enduring infrastructure, attract investors, provide jobs and improve on the living standard of the people, in line with the manifesto of our great party.
The PDP urges Governor Emmanuel not to relent but continue to deepen harmonious living which is sine qua non for development. The PDP also expresses confidence in the National Coordinator of the MPM and National Legal Adviser of our party, Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem, for his commitment under Governor Udom Emmanuel, towards the success of the initiative.
Signed:
Kola Ologbondiyan
National Publicity Secretary
PRESS RELEASE
IKOYI BUILDING COLLAPSE: TRIBUNAL AWAITING RESULTS ON CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS TESTS
The Tribunal of Inquiry set up by Lagos State Government into the collapse of 21 storey building at 44 B, C, D Gerrard Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Monday disclosed that results of the tests conducted on the construction materials are still being awaited.
It implored the public, professional bodies and construction industry stakeholders, as well as individuals, to submit memoranda that have direct bearing on the unfortunate incident, which occurred on November 1.
The tribunal, chaired by the President of Nigeria Institute of Town Planners (NITP), Mr. Toyin Ayinde, said that the memoranda should be submitted at ‘lagosgerrardtribunal@gmail.com’, noting that all memoranda, recommendations and submissions should be received on or before Wednesday, November 24.
Speaking during a press conference held on Monday at the tribunal secretariat in Lagos State Waterways Agency, LASWA Terminal Building (LASWA), Ikoyi, on the update and activities of the panel since its inauguration, Ayinde said the tribunal has not made its activities known to the public based on professional ethics. He said the Panel members are “compelled to speak only when investigations have been made, reports and documents submitted, queried, analysed and discussions held with relevant stakeholders.”
He said the six-member tribunal began sitting immediately after its inauguration on Thursday, November 4 and within two weeks of operation, it had received documents from some government MDAs, which panel members had started studying.
It would be recalled that on November 1, a 21 storey building in Gerrard Road, Ikoyi collapsed, killing over 40 persons, including the developer, Femi Osibona, while some people were rescued.
Subsequently, on Thursday, November 4, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Bababjide Sanwo-Olu, inaugurated a six-man Panel to probe the collapsed building incident with a view to preventing future occurrence. The tribunal was given 30 days to complete its task.
The Panel members are; Ayinde, a lawyer in a private law firm, Ekundayo Onajobi (Secretary); a structural engineer, Dr. Akintilo Idris Adeleke; an architect, Yinka Ogundairo; representative of Institute of Builders, Mr. Godfrey O. Godfrey, and a real estate lawyer, Mrs. Bunmi Ibrahim.
Ayinde said the tribunal had visited the site of the collapsed building for a general assessment of the rescue operations, and to determine areas where expert consultants’ services would be required, adding that members of the tribunal also visited the General Hospital, Broad Street, to interview some of the survivors, who could offer eyewitness accounts.
He also disclosed that the tribunal had listed more than 30 stakeholders relevant to the construction industry and the collapsed building, whose views, position papers and recommendations would be received and considered by his tribunal, adding that those the tribunal considered necessary to chat with would be invited.
The tribunal members, who observed a moment’s silence during the press conference in honour of those who died during the collapsed building, said the tribunal has engaged the services of consultant building materials testing laboratory for the purpose of investigating and conducting necessary tests on materials used for the construction of the collapsed building.
He said the tribunal has also engaged the services of a consultant Land Surveyor to conduct verticality tests on the remaining structures within the premises of the collapsed building, adding that it has written to relevant Government MDA’s to request for all files and documentation relating to the collapsed building, as well as writing all consultants and developers/contractors associated with the project on 44 B, C, D Gerrard Road, Ikoyi.
“There may have been concerns or agitations about why the Tribunal has not spoken to the Press. We will like to state that members of the Tribunal are professionals, and our calling demands that we make statements from informed and verified positions. We are compelled to speak only when investigations have been made, reports and documents submitted, queried, analysed and discussions held with relevant stakeholders.
“The Tribunal would like to state that some documents have been received from some government MDA’s and members have started studying them. We have also interviewed some of the LASG staff in the relevant MDA’s. We however appeal to members of the public, professional bodies and construction industry stakeholders, as well as individuals who have useful information and invite them to submit memoranda that have a direct bearing on the particular issue being investigated, as well as their recommendations to prevent future occurrence,” the tribunal chairman said.
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY, EKITI STATE GOVT OVER PASSING OF SEN GBENGA ALUKO
President Muhammadu Buhari shares the grief over passing of Sen. Gbenga Aluko on Saturday, urging family, friends and political associates to find solace in God, and the antecedents of the former lawmaker.
The President commiserates with members of All Progressives Congress (APC), people and government of Ekiti State, on the loss of the political leader, who served his state and the nation, and was dutifully committed to improving the lot of his community.
President Buhari prays for the repose of his soul, and comfort for the family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 21, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
“LET US ALL WORK HARD FOR A PEACEFUL, SAFE NIGERIA”, FASHOLA URGES NIGERANS
The Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN, Monday called on Nigerians to join hands with government to promote peace and security in the country saying that it is the only way to keep alive the memories of those compatriots who paid the supreme sacrifice to preserve the peace and unity of the country.
Fashola, who spoke at the Headquarters of the Ministry where he was decorated with the 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Emblem, said working together for the promotion of peace and security would ensure that the sacrifices made by the fallen heroes were not in vain.
Reiterating the call for the promotion of peace and security among the people, the Minister, who, however, explained that the promotion of peace did not mean the absence of conflicts and disagreement, declared, “It is the resolution of those conflicts in a manner that does not lead to conflict that is important”.
“As human beings with our diversity, we could have so many conflicts and disagreement, but those conflicts must not lead to violence or lead to clashes. Those conflicts must be resolved before the day is over and this is the job that is everybody’s responsibility, not only those in government but to all Nigerians”, he said.
Fashola pointed out that if all Nigerians choose to live together the issue of conflict resolution would be an easy task adding, “And the less conflict we have, the less people who will have to lay down their lives to bring such conflicts to an end, and the less widows and widowers and orphaned children we will have; and the more that happens daily the better our country will be”.
Urging all Nigerians, both at home and in the diaspora, to support the course of the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the Minister commended President Muhammadu Buhari for leading from the front at all times the cause of the upkeep of those left behind by the nation’s fallen heroes adding, “Nothing can be too much to support the cause that keeps the veterans and their dependants going”.
Welcoming the delegation of the Nigerian Legion led by its Chairman, Major General Jibril (rtd.), Fashola, acknowledged that the occasion was not just about the military but also about the affairs of both those who laid down their lives and those who “bear the burden of the sacrifice of our officers and their family members, in this case, widows, who in spite of their grief, continue to support and propagate the values of service in the military”.
The Minister, who described the “Season of Remembrance” as very important, declared, It is a very important season to remind all of us that were it not for the service of some people and their sacrifice in an ultimate way, perhaps our story would have been different. The least we can do to keep the memories of those people alive, to make sure that their sacrifices are not in vain is to continue to work hard to uphold the purpose for which they laid down their lives”.
Earlier, in his opening remarks, Major General Jibril said the purpose of their visit was to solicit for assistance from well-meaning Nigerians for the country’s veterans of the various conflicts across the world and in Nigeria as well as their dependants.
Major General Jibil, who said President Buhari launched the Emblem on October 21, 2021, added that the President directed that they should go round to well-meaning Nigerians across the country to support the course by launching the Emblem.
Accompanying the Chairman of the Legion to the occasion were the General Secretary and other top members of the Legion while on the Ministry’s side were the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Babangida Hussaini, Directors, Special Advisers and other top Ministry officials.
HAKEEM BELLO
SPECIAL ADVISER,
COMMUNICATIONS
TO THE HON. MINISTER
22nd November, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS PFN FOUNDING FATHER, REV OBIORA EZEKIEL
President Muhammadu Buhari condoles with family of the Founder and General Overseer of Christian Pentecostal Mission International, Rev Obiora Ezekiel, over the passing of the clergy, joining the entire congregation and Christian community in mourning.
President Buhari believes the religious leader demonstrated love, peace and joy in pursuing his passion for soul winning, and worked assiduously for the growth and spread of the gospel within and outside Nigeria, holding outreaches.
The President notes the General Overseer’s role in raising many spiritual sons, who have also moved on to mentor pastors, evangelists, and teachers, commending his vision for founding the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).
President Buhari urges prayers for the family of the departed, particularly his wife and spiritual partner, Rev. Dr Mercy Ezekiel, praying that the Almighty God will receive the soul of the renowned evangelist.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 21, 2021
FEDERAL MINISTRY OF WORKS AND HOUSING
Office of the Special Adviser on Communications
Headquarter, Mabushi P.M.B. 111, Garki – Abuja, Nigeria
PRESS RELEASE
SENATE COMMITTEE EXPRESSES SATISFACTION AS NHP PORTAL RECEIVES 7,315 APPLICATIONS IN SEVEN DAYS
As Nigerians respond positively to the Ministry of Works and Housing portal opened last Tuesday for a chance to subscribe to the over 5,000 houses under the Federal Government’s National Housing Programme, the Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN, has announced that a total of 7,315 applications for allocation have already been received by the Ministry.
Fashola, who appeared before the Senate Committee on Lands, Housing and Urban Development in continuation of the defense of the 2022 Budget of his Ministry, also submitted to the Committee the documents showing the number of applications submitted and those completed and undergoing processing as well as a breakdown of the number according to States.
And at the end of the defense, which took the form of a robust interaction, the Committee expressed satisfaction at the development in the Housing Sector with many, including the Chairman, Senator Sam Egwu, noting with delight that with the portal now opened, the Ministry has really launched out.
Explaining the criteria for pricing of the different categories of houses, the Minister, who said the prices ranged from N7.2 million, representing the lowest and N16.5 million representing the highest price, pointed out that one of the factors that made the difference in price between the Programme’s houses and those being built by private developers was size.
He told members of the Committee that the categories of the houses under the programme included1, 2, 3 bed rooms semi- detached bungalows and condominium, (blocks of flats), adding that there are also price differentials among the categories of houses based also on the size and space with all the bungalows, for example, having adjoining land thereby making it more expensive than the flats.
Fashola explained on the prices placed on the categories of houses further, “When compared with what is obtainable in the Private Sector in terms of size, the one bedroom with 77sqm of living space, two bedroom with 90sqm, and the three bedroom with 137sqms, are by far larger than houses built by private developers and justifies the prices placed on them.”
The Minister, who also noted that one bedroom flat in condominium, is 60sqms, two bedroom flats, 76sqms while the 3 bedroom flat is 110sqms, all of which, pointed out that they are more spacious than what is available in the conventional market, adding, “You cannot get them at such price in the market”.
Urging the lawmakers and other interested Nigerians to engage with the portal for answers to all the relevant questions, including quality, size and appearance of the house in any location across the country, the Minister declared, “Our thinking is informed by what we have experienced in parts of our lives and what we think is best practice. We think this is the digital age and we should begin to do things that are consistent with the age, not printing and selling forms”.
In response to a question on possible manipulation of the system, he explained, “We should not be creating unnecessary bureaucracies that will bring about unnecessary human interactions and possibly some of the manipulations you refer to”, adding, “that does not mean that any system cannot be manipulated but we think that this is consistent with the objective of government”.
“We are now in a country where we now buy air tickets with our handheld devices. We book hotels with our handheld devices. I don’t see why we can’t buy and sell houses with our handheld devices and I have done it as Governor in Lagos and I thought we should try it at the national level”, the Minister said noting that the Federal Government itself has said that everybody should subscribe to various identification means like BVN and so on. “We think that that is where we should be going”, he said.
Noting that the portal was launched barely a week ago, Fashola again urged, “Let us give it time to evolve and I think that 7,315 applications from Nigerians within this time is a very enthusiastic response”, adding that all those who had applied had paid N10,000 online to the Remita platform.
“So contrary to the assumptions that because conditions are difficult, that form that you would have sold in printed form is being sold digitally and government is collecting the money for administrative purposes”, the Minister said adding that although it is open to all Nigerians, some of the conditions that address facelessness include having a passport photograph and a tax clearance certificate and other means of identification like national ID, driver’s license or International passport.
Responding to concerns raised about affordability of the houses, “Affordability is not just a function of the cost but also the mode of payment,” adding that in order to take care of that aspect, the Ministry created the mortgage and Rent-to-Own options so that the payment could be spread over time.
On whether the Ministry was not duplicating the works of its agencies, the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) and Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), Fashola, who noted that the Ministry as head and supervisor of the agencies, was only carrying out a pilot project from which the agencies would continue to roll out in the future.
In his closing remarks, the Chairman of the Committee, and former Governor of Ebonyi State, Senator Sam Egwu, noted that the Minister had done justice to all the questions and thanked him for his diligence and commitment to housing delivery.
“You will agree with me that the Minister has done justice to the questions we have asked him. We are also impressed that the data you gave to us showed that you’ve launched out. You’ve hit the ground running. So, we’ll continue to interact with you … Like I said, we are happy and my members are happy, that is why the Chairman House Committee is here too…”, the Chairman of the Committee said.
Also present at the meeting were the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Babangida Hussaini and Directors in the Housing Sector of the Ministry, Special Advisers and other relevant Ministry officials.
HAKEEM BELLO
SPECIAL ADVISER,
COMMUNICATIONS
TO THE HON. MINISTER
20th November, 2021
Yoruba World Centre’s Project, an initiative for unity and development – Ooni
All is now set for the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi to join Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, at the launching of Yoruba World Center’s project within the University of Ibadan on Tuesday, November 23, 2021
.The project being coordinated by the International Centre For Yoruba Arts and Culture (INCEYAC) is one of the best things to happen to the Yoruba people all over the world in recent times.
Oba Adeyeye, while speaking at his palace when an INCEYAC team led by the initiator and Publisher of Alaroye Newspapers, Mr. Alao Adedayo, visited him to brief and invite him to the event said “I am sincerely glad that you respected children of Yoruba land have decided to institute a center for the study of our language and culture. In fact, I will say I am excited. History and posterity will not forget you in a hurry because what you are doing is going to ensure that our culture and tradition are preserved.”
In addition to commending Alagba Alao Adedayo and his team, the Ooni also used the opportunity to pledge that he will be ready to collaborate and also play whatever role is necessary to make the project a success.
Said the Ooni “this is the right moment for all Yoruba sons and daughters to proudly come together to ensure that this project is successful. We need this to enhance our unity as a major Nigerian ethnic group.”
While responding, the team’s leader, Alagba Alao Adedayo submitted that the aim of putting the project together is to ensure that there is documentation and proper care for old records, traditional tools and historical materials.
The INCEYAC team that visited the Ooni included reknown cinematographer, Tunde Kelani and Dr Adeola Faleye of the Obafemi Awolowo University.
In addition to the Ooni of Ife and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, others billed to attend the event include all the governors of the South West states, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, General Alani Akinrinade (rtd) and many eminent Yoruba sons and daughters in attendance.
He earned his undergraduate degree from University of Port-Harcourt and a Master’s degree from University of Lagos.
Ebireri has a postgraduate diploma in Journalism from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, a diploma in English from University of Lagos and other certificates from Broadcast Academy, Republican Institute, College of Education Technical, Akoka and the Independent Journalism Centre.
His curiosity for learning and love of teaching led him to become a teacher and later a journalist.
HENRY OVIE EBIRERI has always loved to read and knew from an early age he wanted to be a writer.
He began his career writing for various magazines before joining a daily newspaper as reporter\researcher.
He quickly moved up the ranks and spent several years as the newspaper’s political editor before making the move to join other newspapers as group news editor and deputy daily editor.
Ebireri graduated from the University of Lagos with a Master’s in Political Science.
He took a step towards the dream of journalism as a profession by going to Nigerian Institute of Journalism and earning a postgraduate diploma in Journalism
He also earned diploma in English
EBIRERI HENRY OVIE: ICONIC JOURNALIST
Born in Eku, Nigeria, Ebireri Henry Ovie had his basic education in Sapele, Aghalokpe and Eku.
The prolific writer also attended St Patrick’s College, Asaba, University of Port Harcourt, Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba and University of Lagos.
A noted teacher, journalist and political communication expert, Ebireri was political editor of NewAge, Group News Editor, National Mirror, News Editor, Business Hallmark and Deputy Editor, News Star.
The widely recognized and well-established media professional and consultant was a political aide to some top government functionaries in Nigeria.
He is currently a director in MediaGate Nigeria.
EBIRERI HENRY 0VIE
EBIRERI HENRY 0VIE is a director in MediaGate Management and Consulting Limited.
Born in Eku, Ebireri attended primary and secondary schools in Delta State.
He obtained his B.Sc. in University of Port-Harcourt, his M.Sc. from University of Lagos and Postgraduate Diploma from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism.
His professional background includes experience in political communication (government relations), political behaviour, print and electronic journalism, advertising, public relations and marketing.
A media consultant to senatorial, governorship and presidential aspirants in Nigeria, Ebireri is widely consulted for political strategies and alternative thoughts.
He was Special Assistant to a Deputy Governor in Lagos State and Chief Press Secretary to a speaker in the Delta State House of Assembly.
The frequent speaker to youth, children and women groups has published hundreds of articles in major newspapers.
EBIRERI HENRY 0VIE
EBIRERI HENRY OVIE is the Director of strategy and communication for MediaGate Management and Consulting Limited.
He earned his undergraduate degree from University of Port-Harcourt and a Master’s degree from University of Lagos.
Ebireri has a postgraduate diploma in Journalism from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, a diploma in English from University of Lagos and other certificates from Broadcast Academy, Republican Institute, College of Education Technical, Akoka and the Independent Journalism Centre.
His curiosity for learning and love of teaching led him to become a teacher and later a journalist.
EBIRERI HENRY 0VIE
Ebireri Henry Ovie is a Nigerian-born journalist_
Born on December 31, 1968 in Eku, Delta State, Ebireri attended primary and secondary schools in Sapele, Aghalokpe and Eku.
The son of Festus Omajemite Ebireri and Veronica Ikpera Umukoro, Ebireri is a convinced Marxist, political essayist and a man of great charm.
He did A/Level in Government, Economics and Religious Knowledge in St Patrick’s College, Asaba.
In 1992, he received a bachelor degree from the University of Port Harcourt.
Ebireri also received a postgraduate diploma in Journalism from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism and Master of Science in Political Science from the University of Lagos
Ebireri Henry Ovie Mobile: 2348036977194.
· Accuse NDPF, IIA, others of laughable antics
Women in the South-South geo-political zone on Sunday praised the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, for inspiring the people of the region with fresh hopes and vigour.
In a statement in Benin, the women applauded Akpabio for proving his sincerity by remaining constant to the Niger Delta cause.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is working hard in the interest of the Niger Delta people’’
The statement signed by the Coordinator of South-South Women Alliance (SSWA), Dr. Mary Alli, praised Akpabio for showing prudence, wisdom and courage.
The statement described the attitude of President Muhammadu Buhari as friendly.
‘’The news story on the scrapping of NDDC is false, provocative and mischievous. It shows disgraceful ignorance of the discussion in Nigeria on the repositioning of NDDC and development of the Niger Delta region’’ the statement said.
The statement emphasized the great work of organization in the Niger Delta development Commission (NDDC) and the services of Akpabio to the good people of the region.
‘’Senator Godswill Akpabio is zealous in our cause. The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs is doing good service. He is promoting the interests of the Niger Delta people’’.
The statement threw a good deal of light on the positive change in the feeling of the people towards the All Progressives Congress (APC) government in the country.
Alli expressed the gratitude of the group to President Muhammadu Buhari for paying special attention to the Niger Delta.
The women also thanked warmly the leadership of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the Ijaw National Congress (INC), the Ikwerre People’s Congress (IPC) Worldwide, Isoko Development Union (IDU) and the Movement for the Survival of Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) for supporting the Federal Government reforms in the Niger Delta region.
They emphasized Akpabio’s plans for the people, his present services to the country, skill and wisdom of his recent pronouncements on NDDC’s board, forensic audit report and the region’s development agenda.
The women criticized the Ijaw Interest Advocate (IIA) and Niger Delta Peoples’ Forum (NDPF).
Specifically, the women expressed discontent with the impotent views of Chief Boma Ebiakpo and Mr. Arerebo Salaco Yerinmene.
‘’Some people care for nothing but their selfish interests’’ the statement added.
An apex leader in Imo State, His Eminence, Apostle-General Aaron Onyedikachi Awuzie, is dead.
Before his death, Awuzie was a member of the Imo State Elders Council and Commissioner in the Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC). He was 82.
The Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim and Seraphim on Wednesday disclosed that the burial rites for the polished, thoughtful and intelligent Apostle-General would begin on Friday, November 26, 2021 at Umuomi Agwa Oguta Local Government Area.
‘’There will be a Service of Songs at Awuzie’s compound, Umuomi, Agwa at 4:00pm while Social Night (Feast of Praise) will begin from 9:00pm at Umuomi Agwa Primary School Field’’.
A release by the Secretary of the Holy Order, Elder Dr. Napo Emuchay said the remains of the former Traditional Prime Minister of Uwaorie-Agwa Autonomous Community, the Ikemba 1 of Oguta Local Government Area and member of the Eternal Sacred of the Cherubim and Seraphim would be interred on Saturday, November 27, 2021 in his hometown, Umuifoegbuleihe Umuomi, Agwa.
On Saturday, November 27, 2021, the body of His Eminence, Apostle-General Aaron Onyedikachi Awuzie will be moved to his hometown, Umuifoegbuleihe, Umuomi, Agwa for family members, friends and all invited guests to pay last respects.
‘’A funeral service for the charismatic Awuzie by the Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim and Seraphim will take place at 11am while a thanksgiving service will hold on Sunday, November 28, 2021’’.
Awuzie, a doctorate degree holder in Business Administration, was director, JackBenny International Limited, Lagos.
Fondly called Abubausu, Awuzie was director, LandTrack Nigeria Limited, Plateau State and Manager, Oti and Sons Limited, Edo State.
Meanwhile, his associates have described the late Apostle-General as a colossus.
‘’His Eminence, Apostle General Aaron Onyedikachi Awuzie was a man of principle, a role model to many and unarguably a man of the people. We will miss him greatly’’
JULIUS BERGER WINS 6TH CONSECUTIVE AWARD AT #IAMBRANDNIGERIA’s TOP 50 BRANDS
The country’s widely acknowledged leading, most dependable and innovative engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, has strongly won for the 6th consecutive time its top rating as Nigeria’s Most Valuable Brand in the Building and Construction Services Category at the TOP 50 BRANDS NIGERIA awards.
The construction experts, last week retained its top position in Nigeria’s construction sector in recognition of its outstanding quality, innovativeness and best international standards and practice in the building and construction industry for 2021.
At a well-attended zoom event anchored from Lagos, and with the who is who in the various industrial sectors in attendance, Julius Nigeria emerged the winner in the building and construction sector with a Business Strength Measurement, BSM of 60.5 to strongly beat and best its own previous performance records in all the previous years at the ratings.
According the Mr Taiwo Oluboyede, the CEO of the BrandNigeria event, Top Brands Nigeria, the BSM ratings of nominated companies are determined by their individual Brand Identity and Client Retention, Quality Elements, Market or Category Leadership, Innovation, National Spread, Online Engagement and their respective Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Consciousness and engagement.
According to Mr Taiwo Oluboyede, “Julius Berger has a progressive and open-minded corporate culture. The company never stands still in its efforts to drive both the organization and its clients’ developments forward to its sworn allegiance to success.”
Julius Berger was also positively cited for its culture of punctuality and capacity to arrive on schedule for its tasks. Executive Director Administration of the company, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi, later told our correspondent in a telephone interview that: In Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, punctuality is the soul of business; as a propelling operational policy, we seriously work to arrive at every milestone and assignment as planned. That corporate culture proudly productively underpin our company’s reliability to our clients in every project. That is what we strongly bring to every work and project as our proud historical legacy; a tenacity and consistency of purpose that has made us win the highly coveted construction sector leadership award for the 6th consecutive time. We intend to maintain our productive momentum and remain the trusted and preferred partner when project timelines and success matters most to the client. That is Julius Berger’s lasting and reliable promise. On behalf of the Board, Executive Management and entire Staff of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, I wish to appreciate and thank the BrandNigeria organization for this valuable award, and for the objectivity that has continued to guide the ratings, keeping the nominations for the awards only merit-driven.”
The CEO of BrandNigeria, Taiwo Oluboyede, had earlier noted that it has been widely observed and acknowledged that: “no matter the challenges and regardless of the scope, Julius Berger approaches each project not only as a contractor, but as a partner for project success.” Tracing the history of its works in Nigeria back to the construction of Eko bridge in Lagos in 1965 which it added “still stands strong today” the Top 50 Brands Nigeria CEO said “…it is a testimony to Julius Berger’s leadership in delivering enduring quality.”
Furthermore, Mr Oluboyede speaking from the citation of Julius Berger from the BrandNigeria 2021 Manual, said that, among many other fine technical qualities of Julius Berger, the company places emphasis on the deployment of progressive construction methods and innovative technologies to achieve sustainable and value-driven solutions as the scope of Julius Berger’s operations covers “all areas of construction including the pre and post phases. Success is built on the strategy of having vertically integrated operations, which improve efficiency and timelines of project execution.”
To underscore the foregoing, Top Brands Nigeria said, “Julius Berger is a brand that is unmistakably recognized throughout Nigeria, a brand that has built a track record of delivering the highest level of performance and a brand synonymous with quality and reliability.”
The Chief Executive Officer of Top Brands Nigeria, Mr. Taiwo Oluboyede in his opening remarks at the landmark event congratulated Julius Berger Nigeria and other sectoral winners declaring that, “today, these are the best top brands in Nigeria.”
Other winners at the award event included the Dangote Group, Conoil, Oando, Shell, Total, Globacom, Guinness, Coca-Cola, Nestle, MTN, Airtel, Guaranty Trust Bank, Zenith Bank, Access Bank, Nigeria Breweries, Toyota, the Honeywell Group, Lafarge, Channels Television, etc.
Akpabio’s Performance: South-South leaders write Buhari
Notable leaders in the South-South geo-political zone on Thursday urged youths and women in the Niger Delta region to treat President Muhammadu Buhari and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio with respect.
The leaders also praised Akpabio for looking after the interests of the Niger Delta people with all diligence.
‘’The firmness and energy of the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Chief Godswill Akpabio, have been admirable’’
In a statement in Port Harcourt, the leaders described the views of the Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) and Wailing Women of Niger Delta (WWND) as contradictory and a direct attack on the Federal Government.
‘’Chief Godswill Akpabio is doing all he can decently for the Niger Delta region’’
The statement underscored court cases, studying of the NDDC report and implementation of the recommendations.
‘’It is not wise to raise the question of NDDC board appointment or inauguration at this time’’
Signed by the Chairman of South-South Front (SSF), Chief John Harry, the leaders described the NDDC forensic report as a great boon to the Niger Delta region.
They accused the Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) and the Wailing Women of Niger Delta (WWND) of working against the speedy development of the Niger Delta region.
‘’Nothing vexes us more than the ill-informed opinion of INYA President, Comrade Amos Etaluku. We are very annoyed at what the President of the Wailing Women of Niger Delta (WWND), Onye Nwadighi, is reported to have said.
The leaders said there was no need for women to march round the streets of Port Harcourt as well as the corporate headquarters of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) naked.
‘’The opposition of WWND and INYA to the reforms of the Federal Government in the region is based on unsound reasons’’
The leaders urged INYA and WWND members to back out of nonsense opinions.
‘’Please refuse foolish idea, shameful and destructive activities’’
The statement also emphasized Akpabio’s honest and sagacious opinion on the way forward for the region.
‘’We are satisfied with Akpabio’s performance and have written to thank President Muhammadu Buhari for the steps so far taken’’
The leaders vowed to treat as enemies anyone who should obstruct the development of the region by the current administration.
‘’We must all do our best to promote peace and goodwill in the region. The report of the NDDC forensic audit holds out a good prospect of peace and development’’
Prominent leaders in the South-South geo-political zone on Thursday said Obukohwo Monday Arthur Whiskey, Ovie of Idjerhe kingdom did not understand the objectives of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) forensic audit and the recommendations.
They also commended Chief Godswill Akpabio for pursuing key priorities, paving the way to a better future for the people and providing vibrant leadership in the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.
In a statement in Asaba, the leaders scolded the Idjerhe monarch for embarking on steps that further present Niger Delta leaders as people supporting corruption and working against the transparency and development agenda of the current administration.
They described the Idjerhe monarch as a divisive element and his recent interview as a shameful exercise.
The leaders praised Akpabio for the redirection of the affairs and profile of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and Steps to insure lasting dignity for the Niger Delta people
The statement underscored the reform and re-direction of NDDC, disdain for flippant monarchs, peace, economic growth and empowerment.
Signed by the Chairman of South-South Front (SSF), Chief John Harry, the leaders hailed Akpabio for the reallocation of public spending towards essential infrastructure, security, health and education.
Specifically, the leaders applauded Akpabio for redeeming the zone’s standing, maintaining meaningful dialogue with the stakeholders, strengthening NDDC, increasing transparency, reducing corruption and delivering efficiently basic services to the people.
Meeting under the aegis of South-South Front to address the common problems and interests of the zone, the leaders condemned the Idjerhe monarch for his weak argument, campaign of calumny against President Muhammadu Buhari, Akpabio and the good people of the South-South geo-political zone.
They also criticized the bad sense of language and repetition by the monarch.
October 27, 2021
Press Statement
As part of our preparation for the forthcoming Saturday October 30 to Sunday 31, 2021 Elective National Convention of our great party, the PDP, all members of the NCOC (Main Committee), are hereby invited to a meeting as follows;
Date: Friday October 29, 2021.
Venue: Legacy House, Shehu Shagari Way, Maitama, Abuja
Time: 3:00Pm
Please note that attendance is strictly by invitation.
Members are advised to also note that Covid-19 protocol on public gatherings will be strictly observed.
Signed:
Engr. Seyi Makinde, Governor of Oyo State and Secretary, 2021 National Convention Organizing Committee,
Announcer.
FEDERAL MINISTRY OF POWER
PRESS STATEMENT
THE FIRST 50 DAYS : OUR REFORM AGENDA FOR THE POWER SECTOR – BEING A STATUS UPDATE REPORT BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF POWER, ENGR. ABUBAKAR D. ALIYU, FNSE ON WEDNESDAY, 27TH OCTOBER, 2021
It is with great delight that my Team and I engage with you today through this Statement. We hope to do this very frequently to bring Nigerians up to speed on the developments within the Ministry and the Power Sector as a whole.
Since I assumed office in this Ministry, 50 days ago, a lot has transpired in that short period. This reinforces my inaugural assertion and conviction that you do not need to be a magician to Perform.
I do believe that a determined and motivated team will always find a way to mobilize resources and deliver on its assignment. We have put in place goal delivery machinery which is operational.
With this in place, many of our lingering challenges in the power Sector are now being addressed in a Methodical, systematic, and Proactive manner.
We are working tirelessly as we explore opportunities that will, in the short term, deliver the much-desired quick wins whilst still focusing on the long-term objectives of increasing the available Power, improving the quality of services, attracting the much-needed investment, promoting efficiency, competition and growth and lastly ensuring transparency and accountability in the value
chain of the Power Sector.
The Ministry is intensifying performance monitoring of the licensees and the licensing regime, especially their revised Performance Improvement Plans (PIP) to have a better understanding of why some critical stakeholders are performing below expectation.
We shall be taking a careful and detailed look at issues of policy, capacity and the technical requirement, amongst other things.
One very critical concern that we must address in this performance monitoring process is to find out if the terms for granting of licenses were onerous.
Do we need additional laws and or regulations to enable the sector to perform optimally?
These are some of the critical concerns that the performance monitoring will highlight. The outcomes will also hopefully point at ways to address these concerns and challenges.
It is well known the primary policy aim of this administration is to Provide stable, good quality, reliable and affordable electricity for the people of Nigeria for domestic and industrial usage.
The Electric Power Sector Reform Act of March 2005 is quite revolutionary. We are working on its full implementation to match up with the huge sums invested by this administration to realize our objectives in the Sector, which are very much achievable.
Against the backdrop of the reality that the delivery of electric power is a multi-sectoral undertaking, specific areas of conflict and tensions within the power industry value chain are being harmonized for greater synergy which will bring about a wholesome alignment of responsibilities within the governance system of the power sector. It is this new mindset of cooperation for optimal performance that we are bringing on board.
So far, I am happy to inform you that everyone is in alignment with this mentality. There are ongoing conversations within the power value chain. Stakeholders are talking and cooperating with one another and in so doing, bridging the observed disconnect within the sector.
It must be clearly stated that within this value chain, some responsibilities are by virtue of the EPSRA performed by our private sector partners and other agencies of Government. These partners are being more closely monitored and sometimes given the needed nudge in the right direction in order to achieve our objectives.
Hopefully, we will soon begin to experience the imminent turn around in the power sector.
We are determined to deal with some policy issues, the legal and regulatory bottlenecks, and the human factors involved in the implementation and coordination of the power sector’s road map. Though clearly a work in progress, let me assure you that the viability of the sector is not in doubt. As much as it is a capital-intensive sector and currently in need of massive injection of fresh capital, we are making steady progress.
CHALLENGES IN THE POWER SECTOR
We are aware that the Nigerian Power sector is confronted by many challenges which have not enabled the sector to grow as desired.
These challenges are reflected in the two over-arching problems of the Sector:
Too many people are still not satisfied with the quality of service in terms of hours of supply, voltage,
Disputed/estimated bills, or have no access to electricity;
OUR FOCUS
My immediate focus is how to achieve the following through effective policy and regulation and cooperative engagement with private and public sector operators:
The key policies and initiatives of the Ministry to achieve these aims are: –
agreement issues are being resolved.
Initiative (PPI) of this administration. Siemens Nigeria and the Federal Government in 2020 entered into a Power
Infrastructure revamp agreement. It is a government-to-
government agreement. The Nigerian Electrification Roadmap (NER) is a partnership that will expand Nigeria’s electricity capacity from the current average output 4,500MWh/h to 25,000MW. We are confident that the NER will succeed because of the pedigree of Siemens and their footprint in the Global Power Industry.
The first phase of the PPI is the upgrading and expansion of the vital infrastructure of the TCN and Discos with the end goal of achieving 7,000MW. This first phase started in earnest this year, with the ongoing pre-engineering phase. The selected EPC Contractors will soon be contracted officially so work on the project implementation can commence.
CONCLUSION
Reforms take time and require patience to implement, especially in a highly regulated sector like the power sector. I am confident that these reforms, when fully implemented, will bring about the transformational change that we all desire to see in the sector. We are very mindful of the various challenges and bottlenecks. I plan to face the challenges with a dogged determination and resolve. It is my belief that with the right focus, determination and teamwork, the power sector will experience a new lease of life. This further serves to assure you that Nigeria is finally navigating towards resolving some of the seemingly intractable challenges of electricity and power supply in our country.
We are at the threshold of a new era of greater liberalization in the power sector as we gradually achieve results based on all the plans for quick wins and for long term growth of the Sector.
I am convinced that everything we need for the power sector to succeed is available to us. We must ensure that all stakeholders Work together as a family to improve the lot of the power sector.
Thank you, gentlemen of the press.
Abubakar D. Aliyu, FNSE
Honourable Minister of Power
Wednesday, 27th October, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
COVID-19: SANWO-OLU LAUNCHES MASS VACCINATION PROGRAMME, TARGETS 4 MILLION LAGOSIANS BEFORE YEAR END
There is possibility of the fourth wave of Coronavirus (COVID-19) as the Yuletide approaches, Lagos State Government declared on Wednesday.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, however, launched a mass vaccination campaign as part of the strategies to stave off re-emergence of the viral infection. The objective is aimed at vaccinating four million residents in Lagos before the end of the year.
The immunisation programme was flagged off with a symbolic event held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island. Residents of Lagos, who are 18 years and above are eligible to be fully immunised with the COVID-19 vaccine.
The accelerated vaccine rollout is tagged: “Operation Count Me in 4 Million Lagosians Vaccinated Against COVID-19” and it is being undertaken by Lagos State Government in collaboration with National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA).
The Governor believed the mass vaccination campaign would help bolster the State’s response to the emerging threat posed by the pandemic.
Sanwo-Olu said the joint committee set up by the Lagos State Government and NPHCDA to oversee the implementation of the campaign would be opening vaccination sites in high traffic locations as part of the strategies to expand vaccine access in underserved communities. Mobile vans, the Governor added, would be deployed to move round boundary settlements in order to reach individuals in areas with limited access to health facilities.
He said: “There is potential for the fourth wave of COVID-19, as our borders would be opened to all people coming into Lagos in December. To prevent the catastrophic events we witnessed in the previous waves, the State has developed a robust vaccination drive, leveraging on both the strengths we have in the public and private sectors of our healthcare system. In development of our strategy and counter-measures, we prioritise the protection of human lives and keeping our economy open for business.
“To mitigate against this potential damage that will further spread existing variants of COVID-19 in the State, and accelerate efforts towards herd immunity, the need for a different strategy became a front burner issue. This is what has culminated in the campaign, tagged ‘Count Me In! 4 million Lagosians Vaccinated Against COVID-19’ to target the full vaccination of 4 million Lagos residents before the end of December 2021. Once achieved, this will bring the State closer to reaching our promise to vaccinate 30 percent of our population within one year.”
Since March when Lagos started its vaccination programme, Sanwo-Olu said the State had successfully vaccinated 800,000 residents with the first dose of Moderna vaccine and 310,000 persons fully vaccinated with the AstraZeneca vaccine.
This, he said, sums total number of residents vaccinated with the first dose of either AstraZeneca or Moderna to 1.2 million, while raising the number of fully vaccinated individuals to 550,000, which accounts for about four per cent of the State’s population.
Sanwo-Olu re-emphasised that the vaccines being administered are safe and remain free of charge in public health facilities. The Governor, however, said an administrative charge of N6,000 would be paid by individuals who wish to get the vaccines at approved private facilities.
The Governor charged all stakeholders, including the local council chairmen, to mobilise for participation in the programme and ensure the success of the campaign.
He said: “We have set up COVID-19 vaccination in all our 205 public primary health centres, 14 of the State’s second and tertiary hospitals, and we are hoping that this partnership can be implemented in over 400 private health centres across seven underserved Local Government Areas in the State.
“Let me re-emphasise that we are not compelling anyone to get vaccinated. But, we want everyone to take it as personal responsibility, which is highly important. What we seek to achieve by this campaign is to ensure there is access to the vaccines and availability. Then, give people an opportunity to get vaccinated at centres close to them. This will give nobody a reason not to get the vaccines.”
Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, described the vaccination campaign as “ambitious”, saying the State Government had put in place two-pronged approach to prevent the fourth wave of the pandemic.
“The first step is to control the in-bound flight passengers and maintain adherence to all preventive measures that have been put in place, while the second step is to closely monitor the isolation of those coming from the red zone area,” Abayomi said.
NPHCDA Executive Director, Dr. Shuaib Faisal, disclosed that only 2,950,232 Nigerians had been fully vaccinated, which is a far cry from reaching the target number for herd immunity.
He said: “We have enough vaccines in storage to give many people the opportunity to get vaccinated. We now have the jabs, but we now need the arms.”
The campaign kicked off with symbolic vaccination of Mr. Okeke Onyeama, a private security guard, who was inoculated in presence of the Governor and NPHCDA boss.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
OCTOBER 27, 2021
27 October 2021
Actress Damilola Adegbite discusses balancing career and dealing with broken marriage on #WithChude
This week’s episode of #WithChude gave viewers an insight into the life of the award-winning Nigerian actress and TV personality Damilola Adegbite. The actress discusses how her career turned out to be a walk in the park and how she was able to come out of her marriage scandal strong.
Finding the perfect romance in her fellow actor, Chris Attoh, on the set of Tinsel, Damilola Adegbite had believed she had found her own fairy-tale. Both actors had gotten engaged in 2014 and welcomed their son, Brian, a month later. Unexpectedly for the actress, this perfect haven came crashing down three years into the marriage, and the news of it had gone viral.
Exposed to this turn of events, she had handled the whole episode with grace. The actor reveals how she had consistently refused to grant interviews because she had felt they would cause her more harm than good. One interviewer in particular had gone ahead to make up a false interview on her behalf.
When the actress was asked about the circumstances that led to the end of her marriage, she replied, “It didn’t work. I learnt a massive lesson from that experience and it is that love is not enough. When you meet somebody and you want to spend the rest of your life with them, love is just one of the qualities that you need, but it’s not everything.”
Damilola Adegbite goes further to distinguish the popular marriage mentality from hers and how it doesn’t fit into her lifestyle. According to her, a failed marriage is not the tragedy people make it out to be. Not every marriage is ordained by God. She reminisces how she had fought and prayed hard right to the end of the marriage and how she knows in her heart that she did her best.
Touching on her journey so far with her son, she explained how difficult it had been to answer the questions the seven-year-old had been coming up with. “I know how to maneuver my way through but it’s hard to be able to strike a balance between the truth and what he needs to know.” For her, Brian won’t always be a seven-year-old, but for now, there are limits to what he can know.
Despite the ups and downs, she has experienced in the past few years, the actor continues to keep herself in an area of peace and self-awareness while making waves in her career. In her words, “You just have to ride that wave, just be strong and ride it if that’s what you have found yourself in”.
PRESIDENT BUHARI PRAYS FOR EVERLASTING PEACE IN NIGERIA
President Muhammadu Buhari continues his visit to Saudi Arabia with a brief stopover at Madinah where he observed his evening prayers and engaged in intense prayers, along with his entourage for the return of peace and security all over Nigeria and the world at large.
The President who had earlier been received at the Prince Muhammad Abdulaziz Airport, Madinah by the Deputy Governor of the Region, Prince Sa’ud Al-Faisal spent quality time at the Mosque of the Holy Prophet Muhammed, Islam’s second holiest, engaging in prayers and recitation of the Holy Qur’an.
President Buhari and the delegation prayed for the well-being of the nation and its people and for the full restoration of peace and security in Nigerian and around the globe. Prayers for the economy, ravaged by the pandemic to fully recover for the benefit of the nation and its people were also offered.
The President will later on in the evening proceed to Makkah for the performance of the Umrah (lesser Hajj).
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 27, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH THE ADUDAS OVER DEATH OF FATHER
President Muhammadu Buhari condoles with the Aduda family on the passing away of their beloved father, Rt. Rev’d Tanimu Samari Aduda after a brief illness.
The President commiserates with the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion in the Federal Capital Territory and especially the Diocese of Gwagwalada on the transition to glory of its pioneer Bishop who devoted his life to contributing to the spiritual wellbeing of its members.
He particularly extends condolences to Senator Philip Aduda representing the Federal Capital Territory in the Senate as well as Gabriel Aduda, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, urging them to uphold and surpass the legacies of their father in their services to God, country and humanity.
As President Buhari prays for the repose of the soul of the late Bishop, he asks for strength for the family and those who mourn at this time.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 27, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
Members of Southwest Governors Forum, on Tuesday, met in Lagos State to discuss issues of interest to the region.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu hosted his colleagues at the State House.
Five Governors of member States were present at the meeting, which started at 4:30pm and held behind closed doors. Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, was represented by his deputy, Mr. Rauf Olaniyan.
After 90 minutes, the Governors rose from the meeting and offered no detailed information on matters discussed.
Addressing journalists, chairman of the Forum and Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, gave a brief statement on their discussion, disclosing that part of their deliberations bordered on security situation in the region.
Akeredolu revealed there was also discussion on Oodua Group, a company owned by all six Southwest States, but declined to give further details. He pointed out that the Forum was not willing to share full information on the meeting.
He said: “We, the six Governors of the Southwest under the Southwest Governors’ Forum met today. We deliberated on a number of common and personal issues. We also deliberated on our common heritage, which is the Oodua Group of Companies.
“At the end, we agreed on a few things; a number of them, which have to do with security, are not what we can discuss in the open. This short address is just to let you (pressmen) know we met today but we don’t want our decisions discussed in the open.”
The Governors departed the Lagos House, Marina after the short briefing.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
OCTOBER 26, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
NATION BUILDING: SANWO-OLU, AKEREDOLU, AISHA BUHARI HARP ON ROLE OF WOMEN
…Women Participation In Politics Must Go Beyond Singing At Rallies, Says Ondo Gov
…As 21st COWLSO National Women’s Conference Opens
Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his counterpart from Ondo State, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu; and Nigeria’s First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Aisha Buhari on Tuesday harped on the role of women in national development, saying women must be accorded their rightful recognition in the scheme of affairs.
They all spoke at the opening ceremony of the 21st Annual National Women’s Conference of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) with the theme: “Awake,” held at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the fact that men can do virtually nothing without women, saying it was important for women to be awake and alive to their responsibilities, especially the emerging realities of the 21st century.
According to him, “There is nothing we men can do without women beside us. And so the charge before us today is to look at the changes and the emerging realities of our time. I believe the word awake is appropriate and it is meant for our women to be a lot more resilient; to be aware of the environment; to have a new approach to doing things; to ensure that you have a sustainable mindset at everything you find yourselves doing as individuals, as organizations, as corporate entities, and so on.
“I think it is important for us to know that all of you, working collaboratively as partners with the government, we can achieve a lot together working in unity.”
He said since inception, the policy direction of his administration had focused on empowering women, just as he paid a glowing tribute to the contributions of women towards actualization of the THEMES Agenda.
“In our Themes Agenda, all of the processes and the programmes we have, in one form or the other, are targeted at ensuring that we can put our women in the drivers’ seat. If you talk about health, education, infrastructure, and so on, the strongest engineers that are leading our infrastructure in Lagos are all women.
“For us as government, we have actually awakened; we have said to ourselves that we need women to take their rightful position and it is not just by mouth that they said our government is “HeForShe”, because you can see our cabinet members; they are the reasons for all of the great things that we are doing. We believe that when we have women leading the conversations, we will achieve a lot more. So, you can take it to the bank that our administration will ensure that women take the rightful leadership positions and that you are an integral part of our greater Lagos agenda,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The Governor specially appreciated COWLSO for the various humanitarian initiatives in critical sectors, especially the donation of 5000 transistor radios to support continuous learning by students during the lock down occasioned by COVID-19 pandemic, as well as various interventions in health, sexual and gender-based violence, among others.
On his part, Akeredolu, who was the special guest of honour, said history was replete with heroic acts of women, and that no reasonable society would confine women to the background, just as he said it was no longer acceptable for women’s participation in politics to be limited to singing at rallies.
“There is a need for women to start taking the issue of participating in politics seriously. Your role cannot be just jamboree – singing at political rallies. We must train the girl child in a way that she has a role to play in the future,” Akeredolu said.
Also, Nigeria’s First Lady, who was represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Women Affairs and Administration, Dr. Rukayyatu Gurin, commended the initiative of COWLSO, and called on other first ladies across the country to embrace it, with the view to empowering women and girls.
In her opening remarks, COWLSO Chairman and Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu paid glowing tributes to the founding mothers of COWLSO, especially the late Dame Obafunmilayo Johnson, wife of the first Military Governor of the State, who founded the Committee in 1974, and Senator Oluremi Tinubu who initiated the National Women’s Conference in the year 2000 during the tenure of her husband, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Governor of the State, as well as her predecessors.
She said aside from the theme, other sub-topics would be thoroughly examined in the next two days, adding: “This conference will not just be a talk shop. At the end of the conference, we shall issue a Communiqué that will appropriately articulate the deliberations at this conference, and proffer insightful recommendations that will result in actionable initiatives. It is hoped that this will translate to significant improvement in the way participants address the highlighted topics, going forward.”
The event was attended by dignitaries including the Wife of the Speaker, House of Representatives, Hajia Salamutu Gbajabiamila; Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire; Governors’ Wives from Ogun, Ekiti, Kwara, Osun, Ondo, Kebbi, among others.
Special inspirational women awards were also presented to Nigeria’s first female Director of Public Prosecutions, Mrs Muheeba Wonuola Folami; first female Commissioner for Finance in Lagos State and first female Vice Chairman of Transcorp Plc, Mrs Foluke Abdul-Rasaq; the Iyalode of Lagos, Chief (Mrs.) Bintu Fatima Tinubu; and Super Falcons captain, Asisat Oshoala, who was honoured as inspirational youth of the year.
SIGNED
OLUBUKONLA NWONAH
ASST DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS
OFFICE OF LAGOS STATE FIRST LADY
OCTOBER 26, 2021
OPPORTUNITIES IN LAGOS CRITICAL TO S’WEST ECONOMIC ASPIRATIONS – SANWO-OLU
Lagos State is strategically important to the Southwest’s regional economic aspirations, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said on Monday.
Sanwo-Olu said Lagos, as the nation’s hub of commerce and industrial activities, would continue to strengthen partnerships and raise the economic status of States in the Southwest region, stressing that his administration would always be open to collaborations that would spread socio-economic prosperity across the region.
The Governor spoke at the commissioning of a new Ekiti State Government’s liaison office and Governor’s Lodge built on Oduduwa Crescent in Ikeja GRA, Lagos. The edifice was developed and delivered by the Governor Kayode Fayemi administration.
Sanwo-Olu said the location of the Ekiti State’s liaison office in Lagos offered a suitable ambience to remotely conduct business of Government and host investors.
There are also liaison offices of Ogun, Osun, Ondo and Oyo states, and the proposed secretariat of the Southern Governors’ Forum in the area.
Sanwo-Olu said the decision of his colleague Governors to open liaison offices in Lagos was an indication of the strength Lagos could bring to bear for shared growth and prosperity. He said collaboration remained the key to development.
“This is an honour and privilege to have my brother Governors see the strength Lagos can bring to bear for our shared prosperity. When we all work together, with the understanding that we all have different skills and strengths, we can organically develop every State’s unique strength and address our weaknesses, so that our region and the country can be on the path of growth, development and economic sustainability.
“Ikeja is a capital city and it will continue to be home to all strategic developments. Just as Government houses are springing from here, new businesses in hospitality and healthcare are coming here. GRA is a short distance to the airports. This means people can drive in here and conduct businesses without having to get into other parts of Lagos. Governors can quietly come in and run the business of Government from this wonderful territory.”
The influx of public buildings and private businesses into GRA, Sanwo-Olu said, necessitated his administration’s response to ramp up infrastructure within the area. The Governor disclosed that the State Government would be commissioning network of roads in GRA and other ancillary infrastructure in the coming months.
Sanwo-Olu praised Governor Fayemi for deeming it fit to build the lodge, stressing that the development would further drive the growth of Ekiti’s GDP.
Fayemi described Lagos as “key factor” in Ekiti State’s investment strategy, noting that Lagos was not only a key market for Ekiti products, but also its window to the outside world.
He said the liaison office edifice, which has conference facilities and accommodation for the Governor and aides, would save Ekiti State avoidable expenses in hotel accommodation each time its officials visit Lagos for meetings and official duties. He added that Ekiti State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (EKDIPA) would use the edifice for expansion of commerce and investment.
“The strategic importance of having this edifice in Lagos is enormous. This liaison office will serve as a go-to place not only for Ekiti indigenes in Lagos, who require official services and information from Ekiti State Government, but also to non-Ekiti indigenes desirous of engaging the State. It will also serve as a communication and contact Centre of our State with Federal and State Government Offices, Embassies, offices of international organisations here in Lagos as well as private sector players headquartered in Lagos,” Fayemi said.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
OCTOBER 25, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI ARRIVES RIYADH FOR FUTURE INVESTMENT INITIATIVE INSTITUTE SUMMIT
President Muhammadu Buhari arrived Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday at about 11.50pm for the Future Investment Initiative Institute conference.
The President was received at King Khalid International Airport by the Deputy Governor of Riyadh, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Abdulaziz.
President Buhari, alongside other world leaders, will participate in the opening ceremony of the event on Tuesday and the three-day plenary sessions focused on the theme for the 5th edition of the summit, “Invest in Humanity”.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 26, 2019
PRESIDENT BUHARI SWEARS IN TWO INEC COMMISSIONERS
President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday swore in two National Commissioners of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The two are part of the six cleared by the Senate in July this year.
Recall that President Buhari had on September 15, 2021, sworn in three of the cleared National Commissioners.
The swearing-in took place before the official launch of the eNaira and 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem.
The new National Commissioners are Prof. Muhammad Sani Kallah (Katsina State) and Professor Kunle Cornelius Ajayi (Ekiti State).
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 25, 2021
AT OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF eNAIRA, PRESIDENT BUHARI SAYS DIGITAL CURRENCY WILL BOOST NIGERIA’S GDP BY $29BILLION IN 10 YEARS
The adoption of the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) and its underlying technology, called block chain, can increase Nigeria’s GDP by $29billion over the next 10 years, President Muhammadu Buhari said Monday in Abuja at the official launch of the eNaira.
The President also declared that the introduction of the eNaira would enable the government to send direct payments to citizens eligible for specific welfare programmes as well as foster cross border trade.
President Buhari said that alongside digital innovations, CBDCs can foster economic growth through better economic activities, increase remittances, improve financial inclusion and make monetary policy more effective.
”Let me note that aside from the global trend to create Digital Currencies, we believe that there are Nigeria-specific benefits that cut across different sectors of, and concerns of the economy.
”The use of CBDCs can help move many more people and businesses from the informal into the formal sector, thereby increasing the tax base of the country,” he said.
The President said with the launch of eNaira, Nigeria has become the first country in Africa, and one of the first in the world to introduce a Digital Currency to her citizens.
He commended the Governor of the Central Bank, Godwin Emefiele, his deputies and the entire team of staff who worked tirelessly to make the launch of Africa’s first digital currency a reality.
The President, who assured Nigerians of the safety and scalability of the CBDC system, said the journey to create a digital currency for Nigeria began sometime in 2017.
”Work intensified over the past several months with several brainstorming exercises, deployment of technical partners and advisers, collaboration with the Ministries of Communication and Digital Economy and its sister agencies like the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), integration of banking software across the country and painstaking tests to ensure the robustness, safety and scalability of the CBDC System, ” he said.
The President also used the occasion of the unveiling of the eNaira to painstakingly explain to Nigerians why he approved the use of the digital currency.
”In recent times, the use of physical cash in conducting business and making payments has been on the decline. This trend has been exacerbated by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resurgence of a new Digital Economy.
”Alongside these developments, businesses, households, and other economic agents have sought for new means of making payments in the new circumstances.
”The absence of a swift and effective solution to these requirements, as well as fears that Central Banks’ actions sometimes lead to hyperinflation created the space for non-government entities to establish new forms of “private currencies” that seemed to have gained popularity and acceptance across the world, including here in Nigeria.
”In response to these developments, an overwhelming majority of Central Banks across the world have started to consider issuing digital currencies in order to cater for businesses and households seeking faster, safer, easier and cheaper means of payments.
”A handful of countries including China, Bahamas, and Cambodia have already issued their own CBDCs.
”A 2021 survey of Central Banks around the world by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) found that almost 90 per cent are actively researching the potential for CBDCs, 60 percent were experimenting with the technology and 14 per cent were deploying pilot projects.
”Needless to add, close monitoring and close supervision will be necessary in the early stages of implementation to study the effect of eNaira on the economy as a whole.
”It is on the basis of this that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) sought and received my approval to explore issuing Nigeria’s own Central Bank Digital Currency, named the eNaira,’’ he said.
Equally, the Nigerian leader noted that his approval was also underpinned by the fact that the CBN has been a leading innovator ‘‘in the form of money they produce, and in the payment services they deploy for efficient transactions.’’
He noted that Nigeria’s apex bank has invested heavily in creating a Payment System that is ranked in the top ten in the world and certainly the best in Africa.
”This payment system now provides high‐value and time‐critical payment services to financial institutions, and ultimately serves as the backbone for every electronic payment in Nigeria.
”They have also supported several private‐sector initiatives to improve the existing payments landscape, and in turn, have created some of the world’s leading payment service providers today,’’ he said.
In his remarks, the CBN Governor explained that eNaira is Nigeria’s CBDC and it is the digital equivalent of the physical Naira.
”As the tagline simply encapsulates, the eNaira is the same Naira with far more possibilities. The eNaira – like the physical Naira – is a legal tender in Nigeria and a liability of the CBN. The eNaira and Naira will have the same value and will always be exchanged at 1 naira to 1 eNaira,” he said.
Emefiele added that the CBN has given careful consideration to the entire payments and financial architecture and has designed the eNaira to complement and strengthen these ecosystems and has implemented secure safeguards and policies to maintain the integrity of the financial system.
He pledged that there would be strict adherence to the anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) standards in order to preserve the integrity and stability of Nigeria’s payment system.
According to Emefiele, since the eNaira platform went live, there has been overwhelming interest and encouraging response from Nigerians and other parties across the world with over 2.5 million daily visits to the website.
He listed the following milestones:
”33 banks are fully integrated and live on the platform, 500 million has been successfully minted by the Bank, N200 million has been issued to financial institutions, over 2,000 customers have been onboarded and over 120 merchants have successfully registered on the eNaira platform”.
The CBN governor also used the occasion to commend President Buhari for making history, yet again, with the launch of the eNaira – the first in Africa and one of the earliest around the world.
He also dispelled fears on the nation’s foreign reserves, saying the reserves are strong and getting stronger by the day.
”Mr. President, as you make ground breaking reforms, there have been continuing debate on the true value of the Naira. Rather than worry today on the direction of the exchange rate, let us take a step back and analyze how we got here in the first place.
”Please recall that since the advent of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) led Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) in 1986, and the introduction of the Second Tier Foreign Exchange (SFEM) market, the Naira has been on a one-way free fall from parity to the US Dollar in 1984 to over N410/USD today.
”Some 35 years later, we have not been able to achieve the many promises and objectives of that programme.
”Instead, what we have seen is widespread import dependency, which has wiped out most of our production and manufacturing bases and exported all our jobs in the process.
”What has happened to the massive textile factories across our nation such that we import almost all cotton products when we are rich in cotton?
”What has happened to our vehicle assembly plants across the nation such that we import most vehicles and have become a massive dumping ground for dying second-hand vehicles?
”What has happened to our rubber plantations through which we made the best tyres and rubber products in the world? What has happened to our groundnut pyramids? What has happened to our Cocoa farms? What has happened to our palm oil mills?
”Under your leadership, Mr. President, we must stop this decline for good! We must return to massive homemade production; we must get our people working again. We must create the economic environment for massive domestic production and significant non-oil exports.
”As custodians of your national reserves, let me first assure you that there is no cause for alarm. Our FX reserves are strong and indeed getting stronger by the day, crossing the 40 billion USD mark, and is one of the highest in Africa – and growing.
”But we cannot fritter our reserves away on cheap imports and currency speculators. We must return to an employment-led growth anchored on productivity and rewarding producers of local goods, services, innovation and new technologies.
”If you consume cheap imports and export our jobs, we will make you pay dearly; but if you produce locally – with little or no foreign inputs beyond machinery, we will support you, and the markets will reward you abundantly,” he said.
In addition to all policies and actions of the CBN to support the economy especially through the trying times of COVID-19, Emefiele announced a new financial instrument titled “The 100 for 100 PPP – Policy on Production and Productivity”, which will be anchored in the Development Finance Department under his direct supervision.
He explained that under this policy the CBN would advertise, screen, scrutinize and financially support 100 targeted private sector companies in 100 days, beginning from 01 November 2021, and rolling over every 100 days with new set of 100 companies, whose names will be published in National Dailies for Nigerians to verify and confirm.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 25, 2021
2023 ELECTIONS: BE GUIDED BY DIPLOMATIC PRACTICES, PRESIDENT BUHARI URGES FOREIGN ENVOYS
In the build-up to the 2023 general elections, President Muhammadu Buhari Monday in Abuja urged foreign envoys in Nigeria to be guided by diplomatic practices to ensure that their activities remain within the limits of their profession.
Receiving Letters of Credence at State House from the Ambassadors of Japan, European Union, Burundi, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Cape Verde, France, Qatar; and High Commissioners of Sierra Leone and Ghana, the President told them that they were assuming diplomatic responsibilities in Nigeria at a very interesting political period.
‘‘Nigeria’s national elections are due in early 2023. The momentum for enhanced political activities is therefore expected to commence soon.
‘‘The nature of our politicking often gives the impression of very rancorous engagements. It is the nature of politics here. Besides, democracy and related democratic activities in the build-up to elections are necessarily rowdy and very argumentative, but very much within the limits of freedom of action that the art of democracy permits.
‘‘As you settle down in the face of these developments, it is my hope that you will also be guided by diplomatic practices, to ensure that your activities remain within the limits of your profession,’’ President Buhari said.
The President told the newly accredited envoys that he looked forward to a more robust relationship with each of their countries.
He declared that Nigeria is open to more foreign direct investments in the Education, Health, Transportation and Agricultural sectors, and would welcome improved bilateral relations, especially in wider trading and cultural contacts.
The President acknowledged that while Nigeria enjoys very cordial bilateral relations with the aforementioned countries, their diplomatic representatives must work harder to enhance this level of relationship in the interest of the peoples of our countries.
‘‘It is my hope that, as you settle down to your responsibilities of promoting unity, amity, enhanced understanding, better economic opportunities and the pursuit of peace between your respective countries and the Federal Government of Nigeria, you will make it a point of duty to appreciate our country’s diversity as a source of not only pride but advantage as we are definitely stronger together.
‘‘You will find in us as people, the level of vibrancy that defines us, as uniquely Nigerian, eager to make friends, learn other people’s way of living and imbued with great appetite for adaptation.
‘‘Excellencies, the world will definitely be a better place and much easier place to live in if all cultivate the culture of patience and tolerance in order to appreciate the values of each of us and the contributions that we all can make, for sustainable peace and development, globally,’’ he said.
On security, President Buhari told the ambassadors that more partnerships were needed to fully overcome daunting challenges in the country.
‘‘As a Government and as a nation, we continue to make steady progress despite daunting challenges, notably in the area of security.
‘‘Different factors accounted for this, amongst which are, first, that insecurity linked to terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, cybercrimes, and maritime issues, are transborder acts that go beyond the abilities of any single country to effectively contain.
‘‘That is why, matters of security have become the business of all the nations of the world to work together to overcome. Second, our borders are very long and porous, and their effective policing has become a daunting challenge.
‘‘Third, easy circulation of small arms and light weapons, from the Sahel-Libya axis and the Central African region, have made access to these weapons readily available which inevitably compounds our national and regional security.
‘‘Despite these huge challenges, concerted efforts by Government and our Armed Forces have accounted for the largely degraded capacities of terrorists across the country,’’ he said.
The newly accredited Ambassadors are Matsunaga Kazuyoshi (Japan), Leena Pylvanainen (Finland), Samuela Isopi (European Union), Maria Jeanne Ntakirutimana (Burundi) Monsieur Sune Krogstrup (Denmark), Sile Maguire (Ireland), Belarmino Silva (Cape Verde), Ali Ghanem Ali Alfahed Alhajri (Qatar) and Emmanuella Blatmann (France).
The High Commissioners are Sydney Dowu Davies (Sierra Leone) and Alhaji Rashid Bawa (Ghana).
Speaking on behalf of the Ambassadors, the Japanese Ambassador pledged that they are willing to strengthen existing bilateral relations with Nigeria, assuring that they would work together and explore ways to defeat the COVID-19 pandemic.
He wished the President good health and prosperity for Nigeria.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 25, 2021