News From Nigeria
One of the most profound sayings in the southeast region of Nigeria, is an adage that says, “The world is a marketplace”. When put in clearer context, this adage carries two meanings, the first, which seems to be the most obvious is that the Igbo ethnic nationality, fondly called Ndigbo, spread across the southeast and parts of the South-South, are majorly traders and business-minded people. The second, which carries a deeper connotation, is that the marketplace is the core of social, community and business interaction.
Prominent in this region is the city of Onitsha, a town located on the eastern bank of the Niger River. Onitsha is the economic hub of commerce and industry in the South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria. It hosts the largest market in Africa in terms of geographical size and volume of goods and is strategically positioned as a regional hub for trade, business, and logistics in the region. Regardless of the several business ventures and investments that people from the South-East have scattered around the country, every end of year, during the festive season, almost everyone from the region comes back home to meet with their kinsmen, celebrate their achievements and engage in cultural activities.
Homecoming is everything. It offers the most valuable opportunity for integration. This integration alongside an impressive ingenuity for business and trade across the region has fostered an inspiring degree of social mobility that continues to drive economic growth and development in the region and across the country. In the middle of this all, stands, the Niger bridge, a symbol of hope, commerce, culture, and progress.
After over 50 years of connecting people both within and to the region, regular traffic, imposing heavy static loads on the bridge is taking a toll on the first Niger Bridge, giving rise to the urgent need for a second bridge crossing – The Second River Niger Bridge. For many stakeholders in the region, the completion of the Second River Niger Bridge will be a dream come true, as many have spent an important part of their lives looking forward to the impact and immense benefits that the bridge will bring to their personal lives, social engagements, and businesses.
A project of the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Works and Housing, in collaboration with the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority, the Second River Niger Bridge is expected to, among other things, minimize traffic congestion affecting the current bridge and ensure a safe and sufficient river crossing.
The Second River Niger Bridge is not just another regional amenity; it is a key national infrastructure that will play a major role in enhancing everyday life and social integration for dwellers while also driving trade and economic activities. As a significant bridge in the region and the nation, the Second River Niger Bridge will contribute immensely to the expansion of a well-developed road transportation network, providing ease for commuters and enhancing regional connectivity. It will make homecoming even sweeter.
Handling the construction of this bridge is Julius Berger, the company known for its quality and reliability, which has delivered some of Nigeria’s most important buildings and infrastructure and demanding engineering feats, such as the Lekki-Ikoyi Bridge in Lagos.
For the average resident in the South-East and environs, the drive for progress is an everyday activity. From making large supplies and sales on a regular basis, to expanding chain stores, or even successfully climbing the ladder of the apprenticeship system, to become a proud business owner. These amongst other stories of advancement, are the kind of progress, the Second River Niger Bridge will enable once completed. With the Second River Niger Bridge, inter-state travel within the region becomes more convenient. Social and economic integration also becomes more enhanced. It would also foster trade activities and other commercial engagements, like transporting raw materials and finished goods to factories, warehouses, suppliers, distributors, stores, and the end-consumers.
As shown on the project microsite where progress on the bridge is made transparent to the public, so far, reports around the ongoing construction, show good progress on the Second River Niger Bridge Project since commencement. For example, the superstructure is in progress, the geotechnical design and In-construction service are recording good and steady developments; the culverts have been completed, while work is in progress on both the Owerri Interchange and the Toll Station.
The project has started to deliver value for the community and this progress we can hope to continue till the full completion of the Second River Niger Bridge project.
– By Nnamdi Ogbo, Asaba
LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR
PRESS RELEASE
APC CONGRESS: LAGOS WILL ADOPT CONSENSUS CANDIDATE, SAYS GAC
…Party To Hold Stakeholders’ Meeting across The State On Thursday
Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), the highest decision making body of Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared that the party will adopt a consensus arrangement for its ward congress scheduled for Saturday, July 31 to elect ward executives.
The GAC, which comprised prominent leaders of Lagos APC across the State, said it has directed party officers at all levels to engage in dialogue that would lead to meaningful reconciliation of those who are in disagreements to accommodate members that are willing to serve the party.
Speaking to journalists on behalf of the GAC members after the council meeting held at Lagos House, Marina, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, said the GAC has directed all leaders and party officers to dialogue in the spirit of brotherhood to decide those who are going to lead the party after congresses.
He said: “We deliberated on the incoming state congresses of our party and later the national convention. We have resolved and directed officers of our party at all levels to engage in dialogue that would lead to meaningful reconciliation of aggrieved members within the party in other to ensure that all opinions are accommodated and all members who are willing to serve the party are given positions in the various executive bodies at ward, local and state levels.
“This we have done and we are sure all officers of our party will follow the consensus decision that we have taken so as to ensure that all willing members of the party who want to serve are considered.
“We have also directed that they should hold stakeholder meetings at all local government levels where leaders and officers will sit down, talk together in the spirit of brotherhood and decide who will lead the party after the congresses.”
The GAC also appreciated Lagosians for reposing confidence in the APC. “We have reviewed events in the party, and particularly we have also received results of the last local government elections. We thank the press, members of the public, particularly the voters of Lagos State for reposing their confidence in our party as they have always done. We are grateful for this,” he said.
Also speaking, Lagos APC Chairman of Caretaker Committee, Alhaji Tunde Balogun said the party ward executives would emerge through consensus on Saturday, adding that APC would hold stakeholders meetings in all the local governments in the State on Thursday.
He said: “Next Saturday, we are having a ward congress which will lead to the formation of our party officials. We are having our stakeholders meeting tomorrow (Thursday) and there, we will decide on what to do. The stakeholders’ meeting is taking place in all the 20 local governments in Lagos State; all local governments will hold the meeting.
“We are engaging a lot of stakeholders and we are going to do the ward congress on consensus.
Consensus arrangement has been adopted by the party. We will be doing that for Lagos State. We have decided to adopt the consensus arrangements, which is constitutional. It is part of the provision of our party.”
Commenting on the outcome of last Saturday’s local government elections in Lagos State, Balogun said APC won the election landslide with about 584,000 votes across the State, while the main opposition party, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) scored about 81,000 votes.
“We had a peaceful, free, fair and credible election, which was conducted very well by LASIEC and of course, Lagos State APC polled a total of about 584,000 votes while our closest rival PDP had 81,000 votes. We have to be thankful to the residents and voters in Lagos State, who had shown so much confidence and trust in APC. We will continue to deliver the dividend of democracy,” he said.
The GAC meeting was attended by Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; former deputy governors, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye and Dr. Idiat Oluranti Adebule; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Mudashiru Obasa, former Secretary to Lagos State Government, Otunba Olorunfunmi Bashorun; Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Senator Tokunbo Abiru, Prince Olusi and Balogun, among others.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
JULY 28, 2021
July 28, 2021
Press Statement
Ondo: Supreme Court’s Split Judgment Vindicates Our Appeal- PDP
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says the split judgment by the Supreme Court on the flawed nomination of Ondo state Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, shows that there is merit in its appeal against his election as governor.
The party notes that the majority judgement as presented by the Supreme Court did not address the impunity in the action of the Yobe Governor, Mai Mala Buni, in functioning as the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) while at the same time holding office as a sitting governor, contrary to the provisions of section 183 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) as well as the constitution of the APC.
The fact that three justices out of the seven-man panel upheld our position on the illegality of Akeredolu’s nomination confirms that his candidacy as cancerous and a brazen violation of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) as well as the constitution of the APC.
It is noteworthy that the judgement did not disagree with our position that Mai Mala Buni as Governor of Yobe State cannot function as National Chairman of a political party and nominate a candidate for election to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
While our party restates its utmost respect for the institution of the judiciary, especially the Supreme Court, the PDP had expected the Apex Court to stand up as the conscience of our nation by halting the absurdities and impunities being entrench in the political firmament by the APC.
The quest for a legal pronouncement that will guide the sanctity of our electoral system was the reason the PDP had explored our point of grievance legally to the highest court in the land, in the interest of the nation, and not just because of our candidate, Eyitayo Jegede.
The PDP however urges our members in Ondo state and Nigerians at large not to allow the development make them lose hope but to remain calm and law-abiding in the general interest of the nation.
Signed:
Kola Ologbondiyan
National Publicity Secretary
PRESIDENT BUHARI COMMITS TO INCREASE EDUCATION BUDGET BY 50% IN THE NEXT TWO YEARS
President Muhammadu Buhari has pledged to increase the budget for the education sector by as much as 50 percent over the next two years.
In a document titled, Heads Of State Call To Action On Education Financing Ahead Of The Global Education Summit, signed as a form of commitment at the on-going Summit in London, United Kingdom, the President stated:
“We commit to progressively increase our annual domestic education expenditure by 50% over the next two years and up to 100% by 2025 beyond the 20% global benchmark.”
The Summit which is being co-hosted by the Prime Minister of UK Boris Johnson and the President of Kenya Uhuru Kenyatta seeks to give opportunity for leaders to make 5-year pledges to support GPE’s work to help transform education systems in up to 90 countries and territories.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
July 28, 2021
The full text of the declaration is reproduced below:
“I join my brother, His Excellency, Uhuru Kenyatta, President of the Republic of Kenya to affirm our commitment to improve learning outcomes in our respective countries by ensuring equitable access to quality and inclusive education for all our citizens, with particular emphasis on the girl child.
“We fully endorse the call for more efficient use of resources and to significantly increase investment in education by strengthening institutions, promoting greater adoption of technology, building the capacities of our teachers and mobilizing additional financial resources through legal frameworks and deliberate intervention on a sustainable basis.
“In this regard, we commit to progressively increase our annual domestic education expenditure by 50% over the next two years and up to 100% by 2025 beyond the 20% global benchmark.
“Let us therefore raise our hands in solidarity to build a more secure and prosperous future for our children.”
President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR
Federal Republic of Nigeria
28th July, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES GOV AKEREDOLU ON SUPREME COURT JUDGEMENT, URGES MORE DEDICATION TO PEOPLE-DEVELOPMENT
President Muhammadu Buhari joins members of All Progressives Congress (APC) in felicitating with Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State over the Supreme Court judgement, which upheld his re-election in the October 10, 2020 polls.
The President urges the governor, and all elected leaders of the governing party, to always place the people first in their consideration of development programmes and projects, affirming that the popularity of the APC would continue to depend on performance and acceptance by the electorate.
President Buhari extols the Ondo State governor for assiduously working for the development of the state, with reforms that continue to attract the goodwill of investors, and insistence that education, health and security take priority.
The President notes that the Supreme Court Judgement, preceded by that of the Court of Appeal, further bolsters the strength and reach of the APC, and its bright chances of consolidation in coming elections.
President Buhari calls on the opposition to sheathe the sword, work for the development of Ondo State, and wishes the government and people a prosperous future.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
July 28, 2021
LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES AKEREDOLU, APC ON SUPREME COURT VERDICT
Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has congratulated his Ondo State counterpart, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) on the Supreme Court verdict, which upheld his victory in the October 10, 2020 governorship election.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress Committee on the Ondo State Gubernatorial election, also congratulated President Muhammadu Buhari, the National Leadership of the All Progressives Congress, as well as members of the party in Ondo and across the country on the victory.
Sanwo-Olu, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described the Supreme Court ruling as “validation of the people’s mandate”, saying that the election results announced by INEC were evident that Governor Akeredolu was validly elected by Ondo people.
He said: “As democrats, we must submit ourselves to the tenets of democracy, which include post election litigation. Today’s judgement has put paid to all insinuations and doubts about the resounding victory of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.
“I therefore call on all lovers of democracy, especially the people of Ondo State to come together for a continuation of good governance and the developmental process of Ondo, started by Governor Akeredolu from his first term of office.”
“On behalf of the people and government of Lagos State, I congratulate my brother, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, on his victory at the Supreme Court.” Sanwo-Olu said.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
JULY 28, 2021
LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU SWEARS IN 57 COUNCIL CHAIRMEN, SAYS ‘IT’S TIME FOR WORK, NOT FOR POLITICAL VENDETTA’
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said the administrative and financial autonomy being enjoyed by Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the State for almost two decades is not granted for nothing, but given to achieve a bottom-up growth model for the acceleration of coordinated development across the State.
The Governor said local councils, as the closest tier of Government to the people, must justify their autonomy by initiating people-oriented policies and programmes, which must focus on improving the lives and livelihood of citizens at the grassroots.
Sanwo-Olu gave the advice, on Tuesday, at the swearing-in of LGAs and LCDAs chairmen elected in the State’s council elections conducted last Saturday. The chairmen and their vice chairmen took the oath at a ceremony held in the State House, Alausa.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) swept all the chairmanship seats across the 57 local councils.
The party’s overwhelming victory at the polls, Sanwo-Olu pointed out, yet again demonstrated Lagosians’ faith in APC, urging the council chairmen to uphold the people’s confidence and reciprocate the trust by prioritising the welfare of their citizens in decision making.
Since the inception of the fourth republic, he said Lagos had not created any vacuum in local government administration.
The Governor advised the chairmen not to take position as an opportunity to eliminate their political opponents, but use their energy to work for the people.
He said: “Today, we are witnessing the dawn of a new era in Local Government administration in Lagos State. A resounding statement has been made, once again, that Lagos is APC, and that the people of Lagos continue to regard our party as the most viable and most credible political choice for the most populous State and biggest subnational economy in the country. We consider this overwhelming support as a vote of confidence in our administration and our great party, and it will never be taken for granted.
“I congratulate the newly elected chairmen and vice chairmen across all the LGAs and LCDAs. Your victory is an affirmation of trust in your competence, capacity and capability to discharge the responsibility of the Office you are stepping into. Being the closest tier of Government to the people, any gap or shortcoming in administration will be keenly felt by the people. As a result, your policies and programmes must be people-oriented, focusing on how to improve the lives and livelihood of the people at the grassroots.”
Sanwo-Olu reminded the council helmsmen that they came at a challenging time when the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic had disrupted jobs, livelihoods and businesses across the State, noting that residents expected nothing short of good governance and policies that would enable their administrative areas navigate the difficult times and stand on a solid socio-economic footing.
This, he said, is part of their responsibilities and burdens as elected leaders, charging them to live up to their expectations. He reminded them that their tenure as council administrators was time-bound, urging them to build their legacies from the first day on office.
“More than ever before, councils require cooperation among all levels and arms of Government. It is expected that you will work in unity with other tiers of Government to bring dividend of democracy to the people in all the relevant areas, such as construction and maintenance of inner roads, waste management, primary education, healthcare, security, and so on,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The Governor extolled the leadership virtues of the National Leader of APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing gratitude to former Lagos Governor for his “unflinching dedication” to the party’s continued victory at all levels.
Sanwo-Olu also praised members of the APC Local Government Election Committee, led by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, and the party executive members, led by State Chairman, Hon. Tunde Balogun, for delivering on the mandate entrusted to them.
Commending the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), led by Justice Ayotunde Philips (Rtd), the Governor said the umpire had continued to live up to its responsibility and duties as enshrined in the law establishing it.
He said: “My commendation also goes to all our people, the civic-minded people of Lagos State, who conducted themselves peacefully and responsibly, before, during and after the elections. I want to particularly thank you all for keeping faith with our great party.”
Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs, Dr. Wale Ahmed, said the robust support received by the chairmen showed systemic dynamism and entrenched political understanding in APC, stressing that the party always emerged stronger and more united after every contest in the State.
“It is important to remember that politicians derive their popularity and grassroots support from performance and constant delivery of dividends of democracy. The task ahead of you, as council chairmen, is to sustain and even surpass the tempo of performance of previous administrations in your respective areas, the Commissioner said.
Executive Chairman of Igbogbo-Baiyeku LCDA, Hon. Sesan Daini, who moved the vote of acceptance on behalf of the council chairmen, pledged total loyalty to the party’s manifesto and development blueprint of the Sanwo-Olu administration.
At the event were the Deputy Governor, Dr. Hamzat, Head of Service, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Tayo Ayinde, Commissioners, Special Advisers, members of Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), body of traditional rulers, led by the Oba of Lagos, Rilwanu Akiolu, and party members.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
JULY 27, 2021
PRESS RELEASE
Minister Urges Diaspora Group To Counter False Narratives About Nigeria
The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has called on the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) to help counter the false narratives by secessionist groups, insurgents and anarchists who portray Nigeria in a bad light.
The Minister made the call in Abuja on Tuesday when he received members of NIDO, UK Chapter, on a courtesy visit.
“As an organized and well connected group, I implore NIDO to leverage its contacts in government circles, parliamentary groups and global think tanks in world capitals to help change the narrative and sweep the carpet off the feet of secessionist groups, insurgents and anarchists who are bent on pushing false narratives to portray Nigeria in bad light.
”I have no doubt that you will take this call seriously and do everything in your power to change the narrative for the better,” he said.
Alhaji Mohammed said the Buhari Administration considers Nigerians in Diaspora as critical stakeholders in the Nigerian project, hence has done the unprecedented by establishing the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) which, he said, has been doing a good job in coordinating and providing an organized system of collaborations of Nigerians in Diaspora.
He slammed some Nigerians in Diaspora who are helping to fund the nefarious activities of secessionist groups that are campaigning around the world to propagate their fake narratives about the country.
“Instead of contributing their own quota, all you hear from a section of Nigerians in Diaspora and their allies back home are fake narratives and untrue allegations of religious persecution, political marginalization, human rights abuses, etc. These are baseless and false,” the Minister said.
Acknowledging that Nigeria is facing some challenges including dwindling revenue, he said in spite of the challenges, the Administration has recorded tremendous achievements in the area of infrastructure – roads, rail, power, housing, dams, etc. and agriculture, where the country is closer than ever to achieving self-sufficiency in major staples.
Alhaji Mohammed also listed the fight against corruption, which the Administration is prosecuting in an institutionalized manner, as well as the revamping of the economy, especially through diversification, as some of the achievements of the Buhari Administration.
He said as part of deliberate effort to counter anti-government propaganda, which is aimed at drowning the successes recorded by the administration, the government is scaling up diplomatic efforts to reverse the trend.
“On our part as government, we are currently re-engineering and ramping up our diplomatic efforts to counter and reverse the narrative, in addition to countering pervasive anti-government propaganda,” he said.
In his remarks, the Chairman, NIDO, UK Chapter, Mr. Chibuzo Ubochi, commended President Buhari for officially gazetting 25th July every year as the National Diaspora Day.
He called on the National Assembly to fast track the passage of the bill that would enable Nigerians in Diaspora to vote and be voted for during elections, in view of their numerous contributions to the Nigerian economy.
Segun Adeyemi
Special Assistant To The President (Media)
Office of The Minister of Information and Culture
Abuja
27 July 2021
PRESS RELEASE
Minister Urges Diaspora Group To Counter False Narratives About Nigeria
The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has called on the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) to help counter the false narratives by secessionist groups, insurgents and anarchists who portray Nigeria in a bad light.
The Minister made the call in Abuja on Tuesday when he received members of NIDO, UK Chapter, on a courtesy visit.
“As an organized and well connected group, I implore NIDO to leverage its contacts in government circles, parliamentary groups and global think tanks in world capitals to help change the narrative and sweep the carpet off the feet of secessionist groups, insurgents and anarchists who are bent on pushing false narratives to portray Nigeria in bad light.
”I have no doubt that you will take this call seriously and do everything in your power to change the narrative for the better,” he said.
Alhaji Mohammed said the Buhari Administration considers Nigerians in Diaspora as critical stakeholders in the Nigerian project, hence has done the unprecedented by establishing the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) which, he said, has been doing a good job in coordinating and providing an organized system of collaborations of Nigerians in Diaspora.
He slammed some Nigerians in Diaspora who are helping to fund the nefarious activities of secessionist groups that are campaigning around the world to propagate their fake narratives about the country.
“Instead of contributing their own quota, all you hear from a section of Nigerians in Diaspora and their allies back home are fake narratives and untrue allegations of religious persecution, political marginalization, human rights abuses, etc. These are baseless and false,” the Minister said.
Acknowledging that Nigeria is facing some challenges including dwindling revenue, he said in spite of the challenges, the Administration has recorded tremendous achievements in the area of infrastructure – roads, rail, power, housing, dams, etc. and agriculture, where the country is closer than ever to achieving self-sufficiency in major staples.
Alhaji Mohammed also listed the fight against corruption, which the Administration is prosecuting in an institutionalized manner, as well as the revamping of the economy, especially through diversification, as some of the achievements of the Buhari Administration.
He said as part of deliberate effort to counter anti-government propaganda, which is aimed at drowning the successes recorded by the administration, the government is scaling up diplomatic efforts to reverse the trend.
“On our part as government, we are currently re-engineering and ramping up our diplomatic efforts to counter and reverse the narrative, in addition to countering pervasive anti-government propaganda,” he said.
In his remarks, the Chairman, NIDO, UK Chapter, Mr. Chibuzo Ubochi, commended President Buhari for officially gazetting 25th July every year as the National Diaspora Day.
He called on the National Assembly to fast track the passage of the bill that would enable Nigerians in Diaspora to vote and be voted for during elections, in view of their numerous contributions to the Nigerian economy.
Segun Adeyemi
Special Assistant To The President (Media)
Office of The Minister of Information and Culture
Abuja
27 July 2021
HOW THE ABUJA-KADUNA-ZARIA-KANO ROAD WILL BOOST SOCIAL INTEGRATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
By Abdullahi S. Magaji from Kano, a man who loves road trips
Not everyone loves driving for hours, but I do. For me, the adventure that comes with long trips is something that I enjoy. Each road trip leaves me with a new experience, both memorable and unique.
As a regular traveller within the northern part of Nigeria, the state and condition of roads, and impact on the journey has always been of interest to me. I am keenly aware of the difference between a bumpy ride versus a smooth road, an enjoyable journey versus the exhausting stop and go of dilapidated roads. And through my well-travelled eyes, I see what difference good roads make on the surrounding communities, and on me. Perhaps, it is for this reason, that I picked keen interest when Julius Berger began the rehabilitation and expansion of the road from the Federal Capital Territory Abuja to Kano.
For my childhood friend, now a mechanized farmer in Kano, there is more to a road than smooth travel and convenience. According to him agriculture is by far the most important sector of the economy, and a good road network will only enable growth and increased trading capacity for farmers like him in the country. “Quality roads are what we are missing and what we need to grow the agriculture business, not just me, but all farmers”, he told me, in one of our recent conversations. I did not doubt him. It looked obvious that the road network in the region is having a direct impact on his livelihood and rightly so, regularly a large number of essential food commodities leave his farm in Kano, to Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.
Many like him, who live and work in the northern region, agree that that the road is essential not just to their needs, but also to bringing diverse people together and connecting them with their countrymen. I understood this knowing that the majority of our agricultural produce in Nigeria are transported from the north to the south through this road. The grains, tomatoes, fruits, sorghums and even livestock that feed other parts of the country, comes through this road.
In one of my most recent trips through the north, I parked my car on a soft shoulder near the ongoing construction at one section of the Abuja-Kano Road, my love for buildings and infrastructure projects will not let me just pass by. While observing the dedication of workers on the site, from the worker operating a dozer, to another man levelling the roadbed, and all the heavy-duty equipment in sight, the quality of the road construction so far caught my attention – and the professionalism I could see for myself. I have no scintilla of doubt that the road is being built to last for so long.
When I got back to my car to continue my journey, I could not but think about the road journeys I would enjoy on this road, the enhanced social integration it will bring and the improved commercial activities that it will foster, I look forward to the completion, with keen interest.
Aderemi Banjo praises Gbajabiamila, tasks chairman-elect on development
Former National Chairman of Mega Progressive People’s Party (MPPP), Hon Aderemi Banjo, on Monday described the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Femi Gbajabiamila as a symbol of strength, kindness and dignity for the people of Surulere.
He also praised the presiding officer of the House of Representatives for adding value to the country’s democracy and making a difference in the lives of the good people of Surulere Constituency 1.
In a congratulatory message to the chairman-elect, Surulere Local Government, Hon Bamidele Yusuf Sulaimon, his vice, Prince Adewale Dosunmu and top leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Banjo lauded Gbajabiamila for transforming Surulere.
He praised the representative of Surulere Constituency 1 in the House of Representatives for the rehabilitation of infrastructure and creation of jobs for the teeming youths in Surulere Constituency 1.
‘’Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila’s leadership goes beyond providing critical infrastructure, creating conducive environment for business to thrive and jobs for the people’’
He applauded the electorate for choosing a proven leader as chairman of Surulere Local Government.
‘’Hon Bamidele Yusuf Sulaimon is a man of huge ability and a politician of conviction and integrity. He is no stranger to local government administration. His victory is a clear sign of the trust and confidence that the wonderful people of Surulere have in him’’
Banjo expressed profound appreciation to the voters for electing the nine councillorship candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Surulere.
The former national chairman of MPPP urged the chairman-elect to use his leadership qualities to achieve more for the local government area.
Banjo who is also secretary, Surulere Joint Leaders Forum, commended the APC National Leader, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Lagos APC chairman, Hon Tunde Balogun, chairman of APC in Surulere, Hon Shakirudeen Ajao, the Director General of the APC Campaign Organization in Surulere, Mrs. Bamidele Hussein, Surulere APC leader, Alhaji Wazee Uthman and other party faithful for contributing immensely towards the party’s victory in the July 24 local government polls.
Ending the message, Banjo said ‘’I salute the good people of Surulere for voting APC’’
South-West Nigeria is one of the most culturally and economically vibrant regions of the country. However, as important as each state within the region is, equally important is how connected they are. This connection allows the free flow of commerce and trade, and road networks play a big part in that.
In some cases, you can measure the level of development within a city or region by the extent of its road network. Great road networks boost economic growth by connecting companies to each other, connecting suppliers to off-takers and connecting businesses to their customers. They also facilitate the transportation of raw materials and finished products from one destination to the other. When properly developed, road networks reduce transportation costs by shortening the amount of time and money people spend in transit.
One of the major roads connecting the South-West region of Nigeria is the Lagos – Ibadan Expressway, considered the country’s busiest highway. It is also the major route to the northern, southern, and eastern parts of Nigeria. A considerable portion of it stretches from Lagos to Shagamu – measuring 43.6 kilometers long. That portion is currently under rehabilitation and reconstruction by Julius Berger.
As a significant part of Nigeria’s road network, a tremendous amount of traffic flows through the Lagos to Shagamu expressway every day, including heavy load-bearing traffic, which can create a lot of wear and tear on roads. Therefore, the work being done must account for such transportation volumes. Julius Berger has catered to this need by developing an enhanced asphalt design based on findings from its parameter studies. This asphalt-mix design makes the expressway more durable to heavy load-bearing traffic.
The most recent count on this highway puts traffic flow at 40,000 vehicles per day. During peak hours, more than 3,000 vehicles ply the road per hour. These figures have increased significantly in recent years, with the construction of new townships, residential developments, and industrial complexes. The Lagos-Shagamu Expressway is also home to the camp venues of religious organizations like the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Nasrul-lahi-li Fathi Society of Nigeria (NASFAT), Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries (MFM), and Deeper Christian Life Ministry (DCLM), among many others.
Julius Berger has developed and implemented a Traffic Management Plan (TMP) to ease the flow of traffic. This includes setting up a 24-hour emergency response system and cutting down response time by establishing lines of communication between various emergency response and traffic management agencies. It also includes maintaining traffic diversions where necessary and clearing traffic accidents at different locations with speed.
The project’s scope, which currently provides close to 600 construction jobs, includes expanding the highway to three lanes on both sides of the road, maintaining and constructing ten pedestrian bridges and three new flyovers, constructing a new drainage system, and upgrading four underpasses. It is scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2022.
Back in 2006, Sir Rod Eddington did a comprehensive report on the impact of transport infrastructure on the economy for the UK government. We can apply some of its learnings to our local context. This report concluded that a country’s transport system could be a catalyst for continued productivity and competitiveness. It also said that a five per cent decrease in business travel time on the UK’s roads could lead to a £2.5 billion reduction in wasted business costs. Applying this to a local context, we can safely conclude that investing in road infrastructure with the simple aim of reducing the amount of time that people spend in transit will improve Nigeria’s overall productivity.
Julius Berger has been in the business of connecting Nigeria for over 50 years, especially within the South-West region. Its first major project in Nigeria was in 1965 when it was awarded the contract for constructing the “Second Mainland Bridge”, now known as Eko Bridge. The company also delivered the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge, a 1.36 km cable-stayed bridge, in 2013 as well as the ring road system around the city center on Lagos Island in 1975, among other iconic projects. The company is also responsible for building several roads and infrastructural projects around the country, contributing massively to Nigeria’s economic prosperity and ensuring the continuous movement of people, resources, and ideas.
GOODWILL MESSAGE BY THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF WORKS AND HOUSING, MR BABATUNDE FASHOLA, SAN AT THE PLENARY SESSION OF THE NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE SUMMIT ORGANISED BY THE NIGERIAN SOCIETY OF ENGINEERS ON THURSDAY 15TH JULY, 2021 AT NICON LUXURY HOTEL, ABUJA
I bring good tidings to the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) at this Plenary on National Infrastructure Summit.
I am enthused by the theme which is:- “Towards a Sustainable Infrastructure Development, Maintenance and Management in Nigeria.”
If this was a shooting competition, I would say that the NSE has hit the Bull’s Eye with the theme.
Infrastructure Development, Maintenance and Management lie at the core of the Buhari Administration’s strategy for growing the Nigerian economy, creating jobs and prosperity, and lifting people out of poverty.
The stock of infrastructure and the commitment to grow them is the real measure of a Nation’s desire for growth and prosperity.
A Nation cannot grow bigger than the capacity of its infrastructure and President Buhari’s commitment to infrastructure leaves no one in doubt about his desire to rapidly grow Nigeria’s economy.
The outline of that infrastructure development is made clear by the fact that the Ministry of Works and Housing is currently managing over 800 contracts for Roads and Bridges covering over 13,000 Kilometres of the 35,000 plus Kilometres of Federal Highways and Bridges.
In every state of Nigeria today there is either a Road project, a Bridge project or a Housing project or all combined under construction.
This is a critical driver for employment of professionals for design, surveys, and construction practitioners.
It also galvanizes other sectors like mining for gravel, sand, laterite, crushed stones to mention a few, while it drives the demand and supply of lubricants like diesel, and oils, as well as bitumen production and supply.
The transport sector is also driven by the need to ferry these inputs across distances from production sites to construction sites by thousands of Trucks employing drivers.
At the construction Sites, the urban poor earn their daily living from supply of skilled and unskilled labour by working the materials to finished products.
But this is only a small piece of the pie. Design, Construction and Governance account for only about 30% of Jobs in the Built Industry.
It is maintenance and operation that provides 70% of the sustainable jobs long after construction has ended.
This is why the Buhari Administration must take the credit for approving the first ever FGN Facility Management and Maintenance policy in March of 2019.
Implementation is now bearing fruits with 24 Federal Secretariats now fully rehabilitated and under a facility management contract.
Thirty-seven Bridges nationwide are now undergoing maintenance and repairs, some of which have been due for decades.
NSE’s plenary and the theme have therefore struck the right chord.
It would therefore be with bated breath that the Ministry of Works and Housing will await the outcome of today’s conversation on how to scale up and deepen what has already started.
In closing I only wish to point one that a significant number of projects such as the Lagos – Ibadan, Enugu – Port Harcourt , Abuja- Kano, Kano- Maiduguri, Enugu- Onitsha, Oyo – Ogbomosho, Ilorin – Jebba, Abeokuta – Ibadan , Calabar – Itu , Second Niger Bridge, Ikom Bridge, Loko – Oweto Bridge, Ibi Bridge and Bamenda – Mfun Bridge, Chanchangi Bridge, Bodo Bonny Bridge and many more, which were recommended for development in the 2013 National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan have now taken off, are progressing, nearing completion or have been completed.
The Buhari Government has now commenced the process of developing a new Infrastructure Master Plan up to 2030 and this has progressed significantly.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, I have no doubt in my mind about the positive direction Nigeria’s economy is heading with these investments in Infrastructure.
They are the key to reduced journey times, to efficient and competitive productivity arising from the ease of doing business.
I therefore wish you a very engaging and productive deliberations.
BABATUNDE RAJI FASHOLA, SAN
MINISTER OF WORKS AND HOUSING
President Muhammadu Buhari says his administration is ready to use everything within its powers to end insecurity in the country and bring perpetrators of criminal activities to book.
The President, who spoke on Tuesday at a dinner with members of the National Assembly, held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, said ‘‘insecurity, manifesting as insurgencies, banditry, kidnapping and urban crime of all sorts is the single most difficult challenge we face today.’’
He expressed concern that insecurity had inhibited government’s ability to build infrastructure, provide the much needed social services to the people, and to attract investments that drive innovation, create industries, and provide jobs and create wealth.
‘‘Some of the people who perpetuate these various manifestations of insecurity do so for profit, others, in the name of discredited ideologies.
‘‘Whatever their motivations may be, their actions are an existential threat to our country.
‘‘In the circumstances, we must do everything within our power, without consideration of distractions, to put an end to their activities and bring them to book.
‘‘We cannot allow ourselves to be distracted from this objective, or waver in our commitment, and I am confident that together we will triumph in our present efforts,’’ he said.
President Buhari also used the occasion to hail the ninth National Assembly for discharging their legislative duties with maturity and competence, describing the legislature as ‘‘full partners in national development.’’
He particularly commended the minority parties in the legislature for their cooperation and support for Government programmes.
‘‘Our ability to govern in the best interests of the Nigerian people depends to a great deal on effective collaboration and partnership between the Legislature and the Executive.
‘‘The obligation to check and balance each other is not an invitation to conflict, and it should not be characterised by quarrelsome disagreement when consultation, engagements and compromise have proven time and again to be a more effective approach.
‘‘In the 9th Assembly, you have distinguished yourselves by your conduct in office, by the scale and quality of your legislative interventions, and by your capacity for engaging with the difficult questions facing the country with maturity and competence,’’ he said.
The President listed some legislative accomplishments of the ninth assembly ranging from returning of our budget cycle to January to December, the amendment of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), the Nigeria Police Act, the Finance Act, the Deep Offshore Production Sharing Contract Act, amongst others.
Commending the leadership of the National Assembly under Senate President Ahmad Lawan and Speaker of the House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila for their dedication through challenging times, the President told the legislators:
‘‘You have also succeeded in overcoming the political and other obstacles that have, for two decades, inhibited the much-needed reforms of our Oil and Gas industry, resulting now in the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).
‘‘I congratulate you all, and thank you for your contributions to the difficult, yet necessary task of nation building.’’
The President noted that the executive and legislature came into office at a time of significant challenges for the country.
‘‘Overcoming these challenges require that we finally confront long ignored questions of economics, politics, law and history that are often at the root of our national problems.
‘‘This moment in history requires us to make hard choices, take difficult decisions and act with diligence and patriotism to ensure that our country can survive and thrive long after we have all left.
‘‘What this means in effect is that our jobs will not get any easier. However, the objectives we seek, and will work together to achieve, deserve our best efforts regardless the sacrifice,’’ he said.
As the second legislative year of the 9th Assembly has just come to an end, the President noted that it was appropriate to jointly review shared commitments, to identify what has been achieved, and what is still left undone.
‘‘This way, we can prioritise activities and allocate the resources necessary to ensure that in the lifetime of this Assembly, and of the administration, we can complete the work we have started, and leave behind a record of achievement that will stand all of us in good stead in the assessment of history,’’ he said.
The President said he looked forward to continued collaboration and partnership between the Executive and Legislative arms of government, working together to achieve a shared vision of a peaceful and prosperous country.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
July 13, 2021
DESPITE OUR CHALLENGES, WE’RE STILL A LUCKY COUNTRY, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI
We are a lucky country and should congratulate ourselves, despite challenges that could have torn us apart, President Muhammadu Buhari has said.
The President spoke Tuesday at State House, Abuja, while receiving the report of the National Security Summit held on May 26, 2021, by the House of Representatives. The report was submitted by a team of House members, led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila.
President Buhari urged leaders to respect the people, from the lowest to the highest, “so that it becomes a duty to them (the people) to pay back to the leadership.”
Respect for the people, according to the President, should come in allowing them “to choose who they like as their leaders, irrespective of political party or religion.”
Describing the event as “a remarkable occasion,” President Buhari restated his determination to serve the country to the best of his ability, recalling his visits to the 36 States during the campaign for 2019 elections.
Said the President: “The number of people that turned out to see me, some waiting for 10 hours in the sun, was more than anyone could buy, or force. They just wanted to see who this Buhari was. People wonder why Nigerians accept me, despite not being rich. I wonder, too. I felt I just have to serve Nigeria and Nigerians to the best of my ability.”
Commending the 9th National Assembly for its cooperation with the Executive, he said he tried very hard to get the 8th Assembly to do same for the sake of the country, “and I didn’t succeed much. But time has proved me right.”
In his remarks, Mr Gbajabiamila thanked the President for endorsing the security summit conducted by the House, adding: “You were part of it from the very beginning, and you were to have declared it open, if not for the exigencies of duty.”
The Speaker said the summit became imperative after lawmakers were bombarded daily by their constituents on the security challenges facing the country, “and motions after motions were moved by the lawmakers.”
A committee of 50 lawmakers, across party, religious and ethnic lines, he said, was set up to plan the summit, “and Mr President was very eager and enthusiastic about it, showing the importance you place on security.”
Mr Gbajabiamila said the report was a product of inputs by traditional rulers, scholars, independent thinkers, and security chiefs, noting that it contains seven recommendations that require legislative action, and about 19 that will be implemented by the Executive.
The Speaker submitted: “Thank you Mr President for what you have done so far to douse tension and for Nigeria to remain one. It’s about all of us, not just the Executive, the legislature or the judiciary. And Nigeria will work, by the grace of God.”
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
July 13, 2021
WE’LL BE STEADFAST IN OUR SUPPORT FOR A UNITED CAMEROON, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI
Nigeria will offer the best support possible to ensure that the Republic of Cameroon remains an indivisible country, President Muhammadu Buhari has pledged.
The President spoke Tuesday at State House, Abuja, while receiving Mr Felix Mbayu, a Special Envoy from President Paul Biya of Cameroon.
President Buhari said Nigeria and Cameroon share historical ties and common borders, which make it imperative for the two countries to look out for each other’s well-being.
“That was why when I first came to office in 2015, I immediately visited all our neighbours, because we are very clear about the value of good neighbourliness.
“You will have problems if your neighbours are not cultivated. And our relationship with Cameroon had been very clear since when I was serving in the military. The country offered us needed support during our Civil War,” the President said.
Saying Nigeria was acutely aware of the separatist agitation by the Ambazonian movement, President Buhari submitted that it was in the interest of Nigeria “to ensure that Cameroon is stable, and we will be steadfast in our support for you.”
Mr Felix Mbayu, who is also Minister Delegate in Charge of Cooperation with the Commonwealth, said President Biya was happy with the role Nigeria was playing in Africa, noting that the two neighbours share not just borders and historical ties, “but also common challenges.”
“These challenges border on security specially, and it is incumbent on us both to find common solutions,” he added.
The Special Envoy said President Biya looked forward to a situation in which Nigerian territory would not be available for the Ambazonian movement to destabilize Cameroon, “as some people are taking advantage of some crises in the two English speaking parts of Cameroon to break the country apart.”
He congratulated Nigeria on the recent arrest and repatriation of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) through collaboration of national security agencies and INTERPOL.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
July 13, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI: PEER REVIEW OF NIGERIA’S GOVERNANCE, SOCIO-ECONOMIC SYSTEM GOOD FOR OUR DEMOCRACY
President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Abuja pledged that Nigeria will continue to support the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) process in the country because of its benefits to good governance and democracy.
The President gave the assurance at the launch of Nigeria Second Review Country Self-Assessment Report and Flag–off of the Validation of the Report at the six geo-political zones of the country, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Describing the review as ‘‘timely and handy’’, President Buhari explained that the present administration with its change mantra agenda, has overhauled, revitalized and institutionalised its machinery for a successful conduct of the second peer review of the country.
The President recalled that Nigeria was first peer reviewed in 2008 and since then has recorded tremendous success in the implementation of the National Programme of Action as recommended.
He reiterated the commitment of his administration to the implementation of the new National Programme of Action that will come up after the review process.
‘‘Agenda 2063 is a strategic framework for the socio-economic transformation of the African continent over the next 50 years with a strong mandate on NEPAD and APRM.
‘‘This is in an attempt to build on and seek the acceleration of the implementation of past and present continental initiatives for the growth and sustainable development of the African Continent.
‘‘This exercise will be a strong reference point in the nation’s history, a source of courage and positive drive for this initiative that is aimed at consolidating the strides of this present administration.
‘‘In addition, this administration has been very supportive and will continue to support the APRM Process in Nigeria knowing the importance of the process which enhances transparency and good governance, strengthens our democracy, identifies and addresses critical challenges as well as promotes all-inclusiveness,’’ he said.
The President therefore urged all stakeholders to come up with more vital strategies, mechanisms and measures that would enable diligent implementation of the new National Programme of Action for accelerated Economic Growth and Sustainable Development in Nigeria and Africa.
In her remarks, the National Coordinator/Chief Executive Officer of AUDA-NEPAD Nigeria, Hon. Gloria Akobundu thanked President Buhari for his transparency, courageous leadership and consenting to the conduct of the Second Peer Review of Nigeria and his consistency in achieving the desired goal.
‘‘African Peer Review Mechanism is a mirror for Member States to encourage each other and build resilience to challenges and foster solutions to under development and promote good governance in the continent,’’ she said.
Akobdundu explained that after the Validation of the Country Self-Assessment Report, there are other activities to be effectively accomplished to ensure effectual completion of the Second Peer Review Process.
She listed them as follows:
‘‘The Issue Paper, New National Programme of Action, Presentation of the Report and Peer Review of Nigeria at the APR Forum of Heads of State and Government, Institutionalization of the Country Review Report (CRR), Launch of the Country Review Report (CRR) and Continuous Assessment of the Progress and Presentation of Progress Report to the AU-APRM.”
She pledged that the agency will leave no stone unturned to ensure that a smooth process is attained.
The event was attended by the Country Self-Assessment Mission led by Dr. Abdoulie Janneh of Gambia, a former Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa, the Chief Executive Officer of AU-APRM Secretariat, Prof. Eddy Maloka, among others.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
July 13, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI FELICITATES WITH GOVERNOR EMMANUEL AT 55
President Muhammadu Buhari extends
best wishes
to Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State on the occasion of his 55th birthday.
The President is mindful of Governor Emmanuel’s devotion to serving his people and prays God Almighty to sustain him with good health and happiness to celebrate more successes in his administration.
President Buhari urges Governor Emmanuel, who has had successful careers as a banker and chartered accountant before joining politics, not to relent in using his privileged position as an elected public officer holder to move Nigeria forward.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
July 12, 2021
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES ETHIOPIA’S PRIME MINISTER ABIY AHMED OVER ELECTION VICTORY, SAYS AFRICA MUST UNITE AGAINST INSTABILITY
President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated the Prime Minister of Ethiopia Abiy Ahmed over the decisive victory won by his party in the just concluded parliamentary elections, returning him to office for another five years.
Reacting to the outcome of the elections as announced over the weekend, the President told the Ethiopian leader: “On behalf of the Nigerian people I send you and the people of Ethiopia our well wishes for your courage and commitment to the democratic process and urge you to continue with the good policies of your government that endeared you to the people.”
President Buhari, who also reflected on the instability rocking Ethiopia appealed to parties and factions in the country to come together to halt their country’s march to civil war to save their people from depravations of conflict.
He lamented that instability in one part of Africa is a threat to stability elsewhere: “Instability is a grave threat to African progress. African countries cannot attain their development goals if every group resorts to violence and destabilisation instead of seeking peaceful resolution of conflicts through dialogue.”
President Buhari assured the Ethiopian leader that Nigeria will continue to support the unity and territorial well-being of his country and of all African States.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
July 12, 2021
Tuesday, July 13, 2021
PRESS STATEMENT BY FESTUS KEYAMO, SAN:
ON
THE ILLOGICALITY OF THE PDP’S POSITION IN RESPECT OF GOV. MATAWALE OF ZAMFARA STATE.
My attention has been drawn to a statement credited to the National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Kola Ologbodiyan, cautioning banks and other financial institutions to be wary of financial transactions with Governor A.A. Bello Matawalle of Zamfara State on the ground that Governor Matawalle has ‘vacated’ his office as Governor by defecting to the APC. The PDP also stated in very clear terms that the Deputy Governor, Mahdi Aliyu Gusau, now holds the Zamfara Governorship mandate and ought to be accorded the protection and privileges due the office of Governor as the formal process for his official declaration as substantive Governor of Zamfara State has commenced at the Federal High Court.
I was tempted to dismiss this statement by the PDP with a wave of the hand as a joke but I quickly realized that some of the tumultuous moments we have had as a country began as seemingly innocent jokes. My intervention is therefore borne out of patriotism (yes, I admit, maybe partisanship too) and a duty to set the records straight.
To give its illogical assertions some veil of constitutionality, the PDP placed reliance on Section 221 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) as well as the judgment of the Supreme Court in Faleke v. INEC.
Unfortunately for the PDP, the Supreme Court decision in Faleke v. INEC does not relate to the consequence of the defection of a Governor from one political party to the other. A more apt instance will be the Atiku Abubakar scenario wherein Atiku Abubakar as Vice President, elected under the PDP, defected to the then Action Congress. President Olusegun Obasanjo attempted to declare his office vacant in circumstances similar to the Zamfara scenario and the dispute ended in Court. I was part of the legal team at the time. It is trite that under the 1999 constitution, provisions relating to removal of the President/Vice President are replicated with respect to Governors/Deputy Governors. The position of the Supreme Court was reported as ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE FEDERATION V. ABUBAKAR (2007) 10 NWLR (PART 1041) 1. At page 124 of the Report, Honourable Justice Onnoghen set down the position thus:
“There is no where in the 1999 Constitution where it is stated that the President or Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be removed or is removable from that office if he defects from the political party on whose platform he was elected to that office and joins another political party. It is the Constitutional responsibility of the Legislature to make or amend the laws including the Constitution, where the need arises, while that of the judiciary remains to interpret and apply the laws so made or amended. The courts can therefore not add to nor subtract from the law as enacted by the Legislature under the guise of judicial interpretation of the Constitution or Statute which the appellant desires this court to do in the instant case on appeal.”
Additionally, Section 221 of the 1999 Constitution does not avail the PDP any protection and is not remotely applicable to the present situation in Zamfara State. Section 221 of the 1999 Constitution merely deals with the prohibition of political activities by associations other than political parties. The attempt by the PDP to import the provisions of section 68 of the 1999 Constitution into section 221 of the 1999 Constitution smacks of mischief. If the intent of the draftsmen was to prohibit the defection of Governors to other political parties, it would have been so expressly stated like in the case of lawmakers. The provisions of the 1999 Constitution are very clear on the grounds for the removal of an Executive Governor of a State from office and defection to another political party is not one of such grounds. The Constitution has ‘covered the field’. However, in its characteristic manner, the PDP has interpreted the law to suit its mischief. At Page 179 of AGF v. ABUBAKAR (supra), Honourable Justice Aderemi went further to add as follows:
“It is manifest from the above quoted constitutional provisions that the law-makers intended to and indeed have made punishable the defection of an elected member, from the political party that sponsored him, to another political party before the expiration of the period for which the House was elected by declaring his seat vacant. No similar provision was made for the Vice President even for the President. If the legislators had intended the Vice President or even the President to suffer the same fate, they would have inserted that provision in clear terms……I have earlier said in this judgment that the removal of the President and/or Vice President from office is an exclusive function of the National Assembly. To stealthily read words in the terms of Section 68(1)(g) or Section 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution into Section 146(3)(c) of the same Constitution and hold that, by his conduct, the Vice President has voluntarily vacated his office will paint a picture of the judiciary foraging into the exclusive territory of the legislators.”
It is extremely laughable that the PDP that celebrated the defection of Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State and Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State from the APC to the PDP with such elaborate ballyhoo and fanfare would muster the effrontery to attempt to remove Governor Bello Matawalle from office for defecting to the APC. Once again, it is simply ridiculous.
One interesting point the Supreme Court also made in the Atiku Abubakar’s case which must have been lost on the PDP is that once a candidate is elected as President or Vice-President (in this case, a Governor) he automatically drops the ticket upon which he/she rode to power and becomes a President or Vice-President of the FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA, and not of that political party. The ticket is only a VEHICLE to get elected. Once elected, the Governor drops that party ticket and becomes a free agent for EVERYONE in that State. He is therefore free to associate (and decamp) as he likes to any political party. The Supreme Court judgment on Zamfara did not proscribe APC as a political party in the State. It only prohibited it from sponsoring candidates AT THE ELECTION (and not from receiving members to its fold subsequently). Perhaps, the PDP is assuming that it continues to sponsor Matawale IN OFFICE as Governor. No. That SPONSORSHIP ended the MOMENT Gov. Matawale was elected. In fact, to stretch the matter further, belonging to a political party is ONLY for the purpose of ELECTION for President, Vice-President, Governor and Deputy Governor (this may not apply to Legislators as they must continue to belong to a political party whilst in office). So, a Governor, upon being elected can even decide not to belong to a Political Party. In fact to follow the warped logic of PDP on this issue, all a political party needs to do to get rid of a Governor from office is to expel the Governor from the Party!
I also wonder the audacity the PDP has to directly instruct banks not to transact any business with a duly elected Governor. This is such a joke that it portrays the PDP as a comedy troupe. It is also very seditious to attempt to shut down or take over the Government of Zamfara State without a court order and by unconstitutional means. This must be deprecated by all Nigerians.
The PDP should realise that its infantile and illogical position in the case of ZAMFARA appears as a joke, but it has the capability of causing chaos in the State by inciting the uninformed ones in that great State to resort to lawlessness. My advice for the PDP is to concentrate on calming its rocking boat and not to be chasing a horse that has already bolted from the stable.
I rest my case.
Festus Keyamo, SAN, FCIArb (UK)
Hon. Minister of State, Labour and Employment.
Rep. Dum Dekor Rates Gov Wike Best Among Peers In Nigeria
Governor Ezenwo Nyesom Wike of Rivers State is the best and the most selfless among all the serving governors in the country today especially in infrastructural development.
The lawmaker representing Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Dumnamene Robinson Dekor made the observation while speaking on the sidelines of the official account and stewardship of Gov Wike to Rivers people at the Obi Wali International Conference Centre, Port Harcourt, Monday, July 12, 2021.
Rt. Hon. Dekor who is also the Chairman, House Committee on Host Communities said among all the serving state governors in the country, Gov Wike has demonstrated capacity, gifted and committed in terms and in principles much more than expected and is now a leadership model in Nigeria.
In infrastructural development, the lawmaker said the landmarks are all there to tell the story. The achievements are so much and amazing that one hardly knows where to begin to count, he noted.
Rt. Hon. Dekor, further noted that this is about the only time in the annals of the history of Rivers State, an overwhelming majority of the people including the opposition, all ethnic groups and other pressure groups have expressed joy and passed a collective vote of confidence on any State Chief Executive as having done well and demonstrated that Rivers State is one united entity.
“You can see that from His Excellency’s flag-off of development projects and completed projects commissioning visits to all the 23 local government areas in the State and the mammoth turnout of admirers and supporters to welcome him. We are all happy to be part of this revolution in the State and will ever remain grateful to God for giving us this kind of committed and courageous leader at this period in our State’s history,” Rt. Hon. Dekor declared.
He reiterated his resolve to continue to contribute in any way he can to encourage and support the governor and by motivating his constituents to do same so that the state will continue to savour these rare dividends of democracy, courtesy His Excellency, Chief Barr. Nyesom Wike.
LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU CALLS FOR TRUST, ACCOUNTABILITY, TRANSPARENCY IN PUBLIC, PRIVATE SECTORS
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has stressed the need for trust, accountability and transparency in governance, as well as high level of professionalism in the public and private sectors.
He said these are qualities required for a sustainable social and economic development in the country.
Governor Sanwo-Olu made the statement on Tuesday while receiving the delegation of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), led by its President, Mrs. Comfort Eyitayo, during a courtesy visit at the Lagos House, Ikeja.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who described accounting profession as noble and of high integrity, said Lagos State Government will continue to support the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, adding that his administration will provide necessary support for the entrepreneurship scheme project the institute intends to set up for young professionals.
He said: “For us in Lagos State Government and in the public service of the State, we consider our role here, as one of trust. Trust in governance is one of our key objectives here. We believe that we are in a position of trust.
“We are in a position where we need to continue to hold ourselves accountable and hold ourselves answerable to the voting public that elected us into office. But more importantly, to be able to hold on to the tenet of ensuring that everything we do, we can account for it; be it infrastructure, financial and human capital.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu while commending Lagos State Public Service for having its own arm of ICAN and quality chartered accountants in the Civil Service disclosed that Lagos State Government has one of the largest chartered accountant members in the country aside the banks, which are in the private sector.
Speaking earlier, the President of ICAN, Comfort Eyitayo commended Governor Sanwo-olu for the massive infrastructural projects in the state and regards for professionalism across all sectors.
She said: “You (Governor Sanwo-Olu) have demonstrated to us in clear terms your special regard for professionalism and professionals across all fields. This is visibly reflected in the way you have engaged professionals as you pursue the T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda of your administration.
“It is not surprising that Lagos State is witnessing massive infrastructural developments, some already completed and other ongoing projects. You are equally building a State that would be highly connected thereby positioned to become a 21st century economy.
“It is noteworthy that Lagos is already the biggest technology hub for start-ups and its ecosystem in Africa. One of the drivers of this enviable status of the State is the expansion of broadband access to every part of the state.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
JULY 13, 2021
…Taskforce Strike Force Impounds 105 Motorcycles
The war against criminality in Lagos State has gone a notch higher as the State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, personally arrested a gang of suspected criminals, which specialises in harassing motorists and road users in traffic.
The gang of suspected criminals met their waterloo Monday morning while attempting to unleash terror on a motorist around Ojota in-bound Alausa. Help however came for the motorist as Governor Sanwo-Olu’s convoy approached the scene to rescue him from the three machete-wielding criminals who were at the time, trying to forcefully drag him out of his vehicle.
The security personnel attached to the Governor swooped on the suspects, retrieved the dangerous weapons from them and arrested the three of them.
It would be recalled that Governor Sanwo-Olu while handing over security equipment purchased by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) to the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, for the use of Lagos Police Command, on Thursday June 10, said there would be no hiding place for criminals in the State.
“We are determined to stabilize the security situation in Lagos State, as our own contribution towards lasting national security. Let me also use this opportunity to sound a note of warning to all criminals who are operating in Lagos State or planning to operate here; all armed robbers, kidnappers, cultists, bandits, and other criminals, we will leave no stone unturned in making this State inhospitable to you. We will find you, wherever you may be lurking and we will bring the full weight of the law on you,” Governor Sanwo-Olu declared.
The brand new crime-fighting equipment donated to the Lagos State Police Command were; 150 Double Cabin Vehicles, 30 Saloon Patrol Vehicles, 1,000 Ballistic Vests; 1,000 Ballistic Helmets, 1,000 Handheld Police Radios/Walkie-Talkies, 100 Security Patrol Bikes; two Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), four High Capacity Troop Carriers and two Anti-Riot Water Cannon Vehicles.
Governor Sanwo-Olu stated after his security personnel arrested the three machete-wielding criminals that the exercise was a warning signal to other criminal elements and prospective traffic robbers in Lagos that there is no hiding place for criminality in Lagos State.
Also on Monday, the Strike Squad of the Lagos State Taskforce carried out a massive raid on motorcycle (okada) riders at Second rainbow and Toyota Bus Stop along Apapa-Oshodi Expressway.
During the raid, which lasted for some hours, a total of 105 motorcycles were impounded. Prior to Monday’s raid, a total of 201 motorcycles were impounded last week.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
JULY 12, 2021