News From Nigeria
WE ARE MAKING PROGRESS TOWARDS ACHIEVING TARGETS FOR NIGERIA’S STRATEGY ON IMMUNIZATION AND PRIMARY HEALTH CARE SYSTEM, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI
President Muhammadu Buhari Friday in Abuja said steady progress was being made in achieving the targets set out in Nigeria’s Strategy for Immunization and Primary Health Care System Strengthening, with preliminary reports showing that coverage for the third dose of the pentavalent vaccine increased from 33 percent in 2017 to 63 percent in 2019.
The President, who received Gavi Alliance High Level Mission to Nigeria led by Dr. Seth Berkley, Chief Executive Officer of The Gavi Alliance and members of the Gavi Alliance, at the State House, said there was a drop to 56 percent in 2021, due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, adding “However, there is a lot more to do.’’
The President said the Federal Government would increase funding to the Health Sector through the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund and other initiatives.
“Gavi’s disbursement of a total sum of 1.5 billion dollars in grants to support immunization and health systems strengthening in Nigeria since 2001 has significant results but I know that as partners we would all like to see this translated into an improvement in our health indices and outcomes, particularly in the area of maternal and newborn health.
“Our donors and partners have played their part in providing all the necessary support to improve our health outcomes. The responsibility therefore ultimately lies with the Federal and States Ministries of Health, the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency and other healthcare parastatals to place greater focus on exploring innovative ways of ending the lingering issues, improving accountability across board, and ensuring that value for money is prioritized in all health expenditure,’’ he said.
President Buhari noted Gavi Board’s exceptional approval for extension of Nigeria’s transition out of Gavi’s support, which was initially scheduled for 2022 to 2028, and the joint commitment of over 3 billion dollars to fund vaccine procurement and health system strengthening interventions across the country.
“I extend my sincere appreciation for the recent support you provided to Nigeria’s COVID-19 response efforts through the provision of 762million dollars in grants, free vaccines through the COVAX Facility as well as an additional 23 million dollars for vaccine deployment,’’ the President added.
President Buhari said he received regular briefings from the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19 and the National Economic Council on the ongoing efforts by the Federal Ministry of Health, National Primary Healthcare Development Agency and partners to ensure an improvement in the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines.
“Your current strategy of strengthening your engagement and direct support to States is highly commendable and will help improve uptake at the State and Local Government Levels. I recommend that you also explore the provision of support to secondary healthcare facilities in your engagement with States, as this critical tier of our healthcare system is in dire need of support, particularly in this era of pandemics.
“I assure you that the Government of Nigeria will sustain and improve our work on routine immunization performance; contain outbreaks of the Circulating Vaccine-Derived Polio Virus, strengthen surveillance against Wild Polio Virus and curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus,’’ he said.
The President assured that the Federal Government would continue to honour its funding commitment for traditional routine vaccines and co-financing the introduction of new vaccines into the country’s Expanded Programme on Immunization schedule.
“We look forward to our continued cooperation with Gavi and other partners in our efforts to achieve the annual targets set out in Nigeria’s Strategy for Immunization and Primary Health Care System Strengthening and towards the attainment of Universal Health Coverage,’’ President Buhari added.
In his remarks, the Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire said the GAVI team was in Nigeria for the annual review of the implementation of the accountability framework of the Nigerian strategy on routine immunisation and also to support the establishment of a robust primary health care system in the country and access to vaccines.
He added that GAVI had also been of immense help in accessing the COVID-19 vaccines through the COVAX facility.
Chief Executive Officer of The Gavi Alliance said the last time he visited the country the foundations of the 2018 Accountability Framework were still setting, and the follow up visit was an important opportunity to take stock of the progress being made.
“I am encouraged to be able to report that the Government’s commitment to primary health care and immunization remains strong. While Covid-19 has set us all back, the on going response, offers opportunities to strengthen systems to migrate against resurgence of the virus as well as the challenges of other vaccine preventable diseases,’’ he added.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
February 25, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI HAILS ‘AUTHENTIC RAILWAY MAN,’ ELDER NATH OKORO AT 91
President Muhammadu Buhari congratulates the first indigenous Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Elder Nath Okoro, on his 91st birthday, February 26, 2022, sharing the auspicious occasion with family and friends of the nonagenarian.
President Buhari rejoices with management and staff of the NRC as they celebrate the former Managing Director/CEO, who played a commendable role in construction and administration of railways in Nigeria, including setting up training institutions for the transport sector.
The President felicitates with ‘the Authentic Railway man’, whose passion for adding value to humanity, further drove him into research, writing and publishing.
As the nonagenarian adds another age, President Buhari prays for his good health, especially as he remains active in serving God and the country he loves so much.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
February 25, 2022
CEMENT DEFICIT: PRESIDENT BUHARI COMMENDS BUA GROUP FOR BRIDGING THE GAP
President Muhammadu Buhari Friday applauded the BUA Group for its strides in narrowing the gap between demand and supply of cement in the country.
The President spoke at State House, Abuja, while receiving a top delegation from BUA Group, led by the Chairman, Abdul Samad Rabiu, which was on a thank you visit.
President Buhari had last month visited Sokoto to commission the Line 4 of BUA Cement, which would ensure further availability of cement, of which Nigeria suffers about three million tonnes deficit.
“I want to congratulate you on your success,” the President told the BUA Group Chairman. “And I thank you for mobilizing senior members of your Group to come and say thank you to me. It is remarkable. What you have done in bridging the gap of cement supply in the country is quite commendable. You have proven that the productive capacity of a country is very important.”
Alhaji Rabiu said BUA Group was currently building more factories in two different parts of the country, which will contribute about six million additional tonnes to cement supply.
He added: “Your presence at the commissioning of our Line 4 sends a strong message of commitment to industrialization of our country. Like you often say, we need to add value to what we produce with locally sourced raw materials, and we remain committed to it. We are ready to work with the Federal Government, and all other relevant stakeholders. The consistent effort of the Government in supporting local capacity has helped us a great deal.”
The BUA Group Chairman said the support of President Buhari for Nigerian enterprise was unflinching, “and we are encouraged to add more value.”
He further thanked the President for what he called his “forthrightness, vision, and passion for Nigeria.”
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
February 25, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS CHIEF PHILIP ASIODU AT 88
President Muhammadu Buhari warmly felicitates with former Permanent Secretary, Chief Philip Chukwuedo Asiodu, on his 88th birthday, February 26, 2022, celebrating the renowned economist and administrator, whose discipline and competence contributed to the growth of Nigeria.
The President joins family, friends and associates of Chief Asiodu, the Ogbuefi Akuna Ka of Asaba in Delta State, in celebrating the joyous occasion of another year, congratulating him for the significant impact on the history of the country, particularly in shaping the economic and administrative structures, right from joining the civil service in 1964.
President Buhari notes the leadership roles of the Patron of Council of Retired Federal Permanent Secretaries, which include Head of Chancery, Nigerian Permanent Mission to the UN, 1960-1962; Member, Organisation of African Unity Provisional Secretariat, Addis Ababa, 1963-1964; Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, Lagos, 1963-1964; Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, Lagos, 1964-1965; acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, 1965-1966 and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industries, 1966-1971, Ministry of Mines and Power, 1971-1975 and Federal Ministry of Petroleum and Energy, Lagos, 1975.
As Special Adviser to former President Shehu Shagari and Chief Economic Adviser to President Olusegun Obasanjo, and having worked closely with former Head of State, Gen Yakubu Gowon, in restoring peace and unity of Nigeria in the 60’s, the President believes Chief Asiodu’s sense of patriotism continues to inspire younger public servants, especially in putting the country first.
President Buhari prays that the Almighty God will grant the former frontline civil servant good health and strength.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
February 25, 2022
ELECTORAL ACT: WE’RE BEQUEATHING A LASTING LEGACY WITH NEW ELECTION LAWS, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI
*ASKS THAT SECTION 84 (12) BE DELETED
President Muhammadu Buhari Friday in Abuja said The Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2022, passed by the National Assembly, holds a lot of promise for improving the election processes in the country, with introduction of new technology, and efforts to engender clarity and transparency.
At a signing ceremony held at the State House, President Buhari, however, highlighted the need to amend section 84(12), which contravenes the rights of political office holders to vote, or be voted for in political party conventions and congresses.
“Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members of the National Assembly, from the review it is my perspective that the substance of the Bill is both reformative and progressive. I am making this bold declaration because I foresee the great potentials of the Bill. Worthy of note include the democratic efficacy of the Bill with particular reference to sections 3, 9(2), 34, 41, 47, 84(9), (10) and (11) among others.
“This, however, cannot be said about one provision as contained in the proposed Bill, which provision constitutes fundamental defect, as it is in conflict with extant constitutional provisions.
“Section 84 (12) constitutes a disenfranchisement of serving political office holders from voting or being voted for at Conventions or Congresses of any political party, for the purpose of the nomination of candidates for any election in cases where it holds earlier than 30 days to the National Election,’’ he said.
Quoting the section, “84(12) No political appointee at any level shall be voting delegate or be voted for at the Convention or Congress of any political party for the purpose of the nomination of candidates for any election,” the President noted it had introduced qualification and disqualification criteria that ultra vires the Constitution by way of importing blanket restriction and disqualification to serving political office holders of which they are constitutionally accorded protection.
Adding:
“The practical application of section 84(12) of the Electoral Bill, 2022 will, if assented to, by operation of law, subject serving political office holders to inhibitions and restrictions referred to under section 40 and 42 of the 1999 Constitution as amended.
“It is imperative to note that the only constitutional expectation placed on serving political office holders that qualify, by extension as public officers within the context of the constitution is resignation, withdrawal or retirement at least 30 days before the date of the election.
“Hence, it will be stretching things beyond the constitutional limit to import extraneous restriction into the constitution on account of practical application of section 84(12) of the bill where political parties’ conventions and congresses were to hold earlier than 30 days to the election.
“Arising from the foregoing, with particular regards to the benefits of the Bill, industry, time, resources and energy committed in its passage, I hereby assent to the Bill and request the Nationally Assembly consider immediate amendments that will bring the Bill in tune with constitutionality by way of deleting section 84(12) accordingly.’’
President Buhari commended the National Assembly for their commitment and dedication to improving the previous Electoral Bill 2021.
“It is gratifying to note that the current Bill comes with a great deal of improvement from the previous Electoral Bill 2021. There are salient and praiseworthy provisions that could positively revolutionize elections in Nigeria through the introduction of new technological innovations. These innovations would guarantee the constitutional rights of citizens to vote and to do so effectively.
“The Bill would also improve and engender clarity, effectiveness and transparency of the election process, as well as reduce to the barest minimum incidences of acrimony arising from dissatisfied candidates and political parties.
“These commendable efforts are in line with our policy to bequeath posterity and landmark legal framework that paves the way for credible and sound electoral process that we would all be proud of,’’ he said.
The President said he received inputs from relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government, after careful and thorough reviews of the Bill and its implications to democratic processes, before signing The Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2022 into law.
President Buhari noted that the National Assembly forwarded the Electoral Bill for Presidential Assent, via a letter dated 31st January, 2022.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
February 25, 2022
PDP Dismisses Purported Impeachment of Zamfara Deputy Governor
…says Mohammed Gusau Remains Legitimate Deputy Governor
After an extensive review of the issues, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) dismisses the claims by the Zamfara State House of Assembly that it has impeached the democratically elected Deputy Governor of the State, His Excellency Mahdi Aliyu Mohammed Gusau.
The purported impeachment of the Deputy Governor Mahdi Aliyu Gusau by the sequestered Zamfara State House of Assembly, which has been annexed by the Governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle cannot stand as the entire process remain unconstitutional, illegal and as such a nullity.
It is instructive to state that by virtue of the Order of the Federal High Court, Abuja in Suit Number FHC/ABJ/CS/ 650/2021 and pursuant to section 109 (1)(g) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) the Zamfara State House of Assembly as presently constituted has no constitutional standing to undertake any legislative action let alone claim to have impeached the Deputy Governor of the State on any ground whatsoever.
The import of the case is that by virtue of Section 109(1)(g), the members of Zamfara State House of Assembly constitutionally lost their seats when they recklessly cross-carpeted to the All Progressives Congress (APC) when there is no division in the PDP.
It is imperative to inform Nigerians that the Federal High Court had on July 19, 2021 granted an order directing the maintenance of status quo ante bellum, regarding any action against the Deputy Governor, which was duly served on the Zamfara State House of Assembly, the Chief Judge of Zamfara State and Governor Bello Matawalle.
The purported impeachment of the Deputy Governor as induced, orchestrated and choreographed by Governor Matawalle, the Chief Judge of Zamfara State and the Zamfara State House of Assembly is therefore not only an exercise in futility but also an affront to the Rule of Law by the APC and Governor Matawalle.
It is unfortunate that the Chief Judge of Zamfara State who should be a defender of the Rule of Law will allow herself to be used to desecrate the Order of Court and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria which she swore to uphold. The PDP is reviewing the actions of the Chief Judge of Zamfara State in this violent assault on the Rule of Law and will take appropriate actions necessary.
In any case, the PDP and the people of Zamfara State will not allow the impunity being foisted on Zamfara State to stand and appropriate legal action is being taken in that regard.
Fortunately, our Party has implicit confidence in the judiciary, which has in the past demonstrated its capacity and ability to defend the Constitution and the Rule of Law by reinstating elected public officials who were unconstitutionally and illegally removed from office as was in the case of former Oyo State Governor Rasheed Ladoja as well as that of former Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Ali Olanusi.
The PDP urges the Deputy Governor, His Excellency Mahdi Aliyu Mohammed Gusau not to be deterred by the illegality but remain focused at this critical time.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PRESIDENT BUHARI: LEADERS WHO SWEAR BY THE HOLY BOOK MUST NOT ABUSE PUBLIC OFFICE
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday in Lafia said leaders who take the oath of office, swearing with the Holy Book, must be careful not to abuse the trust of leadership placed on them by the people and God.
Speaking at a courtesy visit to the palace of Emir of Lafia, retired Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad 1 , the President reaffirmed that he has no intention whatsoever to stay beyond the constitutionally recognised two terms of office as leader of Nigeria.
”The traditional ruler is on a terminal appointment. Constitutionally, we (elected public office holders) are not. I cannot go beyond two terms and I have sworn by the Holy Quran that I will uphold the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
”Politics apart, whenever we are made to swear by the Holy Quran, we have to be very careful. We must make sure that we do not abuse the trust God has given us as leaders.
”I have seen former Governors here and I am looking forward to also becoming a former President,” he said.
President Buhari thanked the people of Nasarawa State for a rousing welcome, expressing delight that the North-Central State was wearing a new look since his last visit in 2019.
He congratulated the immediate past Governor and Senator representing Nasarawa South Senatorial District, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura and the incumbent, Governor Abdullahi Sule for the laudable initiatives and accomplishments in the State.
Welcoming the President to the over 200-year old palace, the Emir of Lafia thanked him for ending the problem of insufficient power to Nasarawa State with the provision of 330kVA sub-station.
The Emir, who is also the Chairman, Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs, told the President that the provision of the electricity plant ”has taken out 80 percent of our problem.”
”Our people have never had it so good. Our people are back to their normal life as entrepreneurs, ” he said, adding that the Federal Government projects that were ”standing as ghosts” in the state in the past have now become a reality.
The retired jurist listed the newly inaugurated CBN Building in Lafia, the Federal Secretariat, UBEC Smart School and completed Ecological projects, just to mention but a few.
On arrival in the capital for his 2-day State Visit to Nasarawa, President Buhari inaugurated the Lafia Airport, Vocational and Skills Acquisition Centre, Modern Bus Terminal and the Shinge-Barkini Abdullahi-Kilema road, executed by the State Government.
He also inaugurated CBN Lafia Branch building and a 330kva Akurba Transmission Substation executed by the Federal Government through the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) to boost power supply in the state and its environs.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
February 24, 2022
February 25, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Sets Up Osun State Ward Congress Electoral Appeal Panel
The National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has approved the nomination of the following members of our great Party to serve as members of the Osun State Ward Congresses Electoral Appeal Panel to consider appeals arising from the conduct of the 3 man ad-hoc delegate Ward Congresses.
The members of the committee are
The exercise is scheduled to hold on Monday, February 28, 2022 at the National Working Committee (NWC) Hall, Wadata Plaza, PDP National Secretariat, Abuja at 10 am.
All critical stakeholders and members of our Party in Osun State are to take note accordingly.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
February 25, 2022
Press Statement
Electoral Act: PDP Congratulates Nigerians…Urges Nigerians to Take Charge of Polling Units in 2023
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congratulates Nigerians, particularly Civil Society Organizations for fighting on the side of the PDP in putting pressure on President Muhammadu Buhari to finally assent to the Electoral Act Amendment Bill today.
The party also salutes the courage of PDP and other opposition members in the National Assembly for standing their ground on the passage of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill which among other things principally provided for the electronic transmission of election results directly from the polling units.
The newly signed Electoral Act is a death knell for the All Progressives Congress (APC) which thrives in manipulations, ballot box snatching, ballot box stuffing and alteration of election results at the collation centers against the expressed Will of the people.
It is clear that President Buhari and the deflated APC had come to their wits end and bowed to the sustained pressure by the PDP and Nigerians for the entrenchment of processes that can guarantee free, fair, transparent and credible elections in 2023.
The victory by Nigerians in resisting the APC and compelling President Buhari to sign the new Electoral Act clearly signposts the inevitable triumph of the Will and aspiration of the people to kick out the APC through a process that ensures that votes cast at the polling units count.
The PDP calls on Nigerians not to rest on their oars but to further strengthen their resolve by rallying themselves to take charge of their polling units and ensure that their votes are transparently counted and transmitted in the 2023 general elections.
Nigerians must note that the APC in its desperation will not give up easily but attempt to device other means to frustrate credible elections in the country.
Our Party therefore charges Nigerians and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to be at alert and resist all shenanigans of the APC ahead of the 2023 elections.
While commending the International Community for standing on the side of democracy in Nigeria, the PDP counsels President Buhari to further redeem his image by reining in his party members who are reportedly seeking to deploy the instrumentality of violence to frustrate the efforts for free, fair and credible elections in 2023.
Signed
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
February 25, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Sets Up Lagos State Congress Electoral Committee
The National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has approved the nomination of the following Party members to serve on the Electoral Committee for the Lagos State Congress.
The members of the Committee are:
The exercise is scheduled to hold on Sunday, February 27, 2022 at the State Capital, Ikeja, Lagos State.
All aspirants, leaders and critical stakeholders of our Party in Lagos State are to take note.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
BREAKING: *NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, AFRICAN ACTION CONGRESS, COMRADE OMOYELE SOWORE HAS BEEN ARRESTED.*
*#FREESOWORENOW*
Without undue rhetorics, the Buhari regime has recorded another low yet again in its attacks against the rights of citizens to freely associate, assemble, hold opinions and freely express them.
Earlier today, the State sent after us armed men, dressed in paramilitary regalia. It was clear that their mission was to attack the convoy and cause serious harm. They attacked the rear team and heavily assaulted our party members in the vehicle. These unknown armed men also took away their phones.
Our comrades were able to scamper for safety, to later join the rest of the team at the Court of Appeal premises in Abuja.
Just after stepping out of the Court where the Chairman, party leaders and members have converged to witness the party’s case against INEC and usurpers, Mr Omoyele Sowore was arrested and driven away in a gestapo style, very similar to how he was arrested on August 3rd, 2019 by men of the State Security Service.
We can however confirm as at the time of releasing this statement that he is currently at the dreaded SARS unit called “Abattoir” and men from that station were the ones who carried out the arrest. We are monitoring these events and we can assure all members that this re-occurring illegalities and attacks won’t be allowed to stand. Specific reason(s) for his arrest remain sketchy at this time.
Let me state for the umpteenth time that we are not oblivious of the plans of the regime to cause harm to our National Chairman, neither are we unaware of their plot to shut us out completely from the forthcoming elections through different tactics. But they can only try because it is just too late. Nigerians are ready to be free and we are the most reliable alternative voice to the
shenanigans of the regime. No one or system can stop an idea whose time has come.
We call on all peace-loving Nigerians to join the call for his immediate and unconditional release both from this present arrest and the unjust, illegal and immoral city detention.
Solidarity.
Signed:
Femi Adeyeye
National Publicity Secretary,
African Action Congress
24/02/2022
Ebireri Henry Ovie Mobile: 2348036977194.
henryebi@yahoo.com
To:henryebi@yahoo.com
Thu, Feb 24 at 7:47 PM
*PRESS STATEMENT*
BREAKING: *NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, AFRICAN ACTION CONGRESS, COMRADE OMOYELE SOWORE HAS BEEN ARRESTED.*
*#FREESOWORENOW*
Without undue rhetorics, the Buhari regime has recorded another low yet again in its attacks against the rights of citizens to freely associate, assemble, hold opinions and freely express them.
Earlier today, the State sent after us armed men, dressed in paramilitary regalia. It was clear that their mission was to attack the convoy and cause serious harm. They attacked the rear team and heavily assaulted our party members in the vehicle. These unknown armed men also took away their phones.
Our comrades were able to scamper for safety, to later join the rest of the team at the Court of Appeal premises in Abuja.
Just after stepping out of the Court where the Chairman, party leaders and members have converged to witness the party’s case against INEC and usurpers, Mr Omoyele Sowore was arrested and driven away in a gestapo style, very similar to how he was arrested on August 3rd, 2019 by men of the State Security Service.
We can however confirm as at the time of releasing this statement that he is currently at the dreaded SARS unit called “Abattoir” and men from that station were the ones who carried out the arrest. We are monitoring these events and we can assure all members that this re-occurring illegalities and attacks won’t be allowed to stand. Specific reason(s) for his arrest remain sketchy at this time.
Let me state for the umpteenth time that we are not oblivious of the plans of the regime to cause harm to our National Chairman, neither are we unaware of their plot to shut us out completely from the forthcoming elections through different tactics. But they can only try because it is just too late. Nigerians are ready to be free and we are the most reliable alternative voice to the
shenanigans of the regime. No one or system can stop an idea whose time has come.
We call on all peace-loving Nigerians to join the call for his immediate and unconditional release both from this present arrest and the unjust, illegal and immoral city detention.
Solidarity.
Signed:
Femi Adeyeye
National Publicity Secretary,
African Action Congress
24/02/2022
FEDERAL MINISTRY OF WORKS AND HOUSING
Office of the Special Adviser on Communications
Headquarters, Mabushi P.M.B. 111, Garki – Abuja, Nigeria
PRESS RELEASE
INFRASTRUCTURE DELIVERY: FASHOLA CLARIFIES
MISREPRESENTATION OF HIS STATEMENT ON NIGERIA, US
The Minister of Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola SAN on Friday clarified the statement mischievously attributed to him in a section of the media as saying that Nigeria’s achievements in Infrastructure has surpassed that of the United States.
Responding to a journalist’s question on the issue during an inspection tour of the ongoing rehabilitation of the Abuja- Kaduna- Zaria -Kano Dual Carriageway Sections I to III, Fashola said:”The first point to make is that I didn’t say that Nigeria’s infrastructure was better than America’s infrastructure because certainly anybody who knows what he is doing will know that America is a much richer nation, their infrastructure is well ahead of Nigeria.”
“What I was talking about at the presentation with the All Progressives Congress, (APC) Youth Ministerial Conference was about the challenges of infrastructure and that it is universal, every country commits to infrastructure as a legitimate way to create work, to grow the economy and distribute wealth as we have seen here.”
” That’s the first point I was making, and that in a democracy you always need the Parliament to authorize what you spend on infrastructure and so I was making the comparison that Buhari has been able to get his Parliament to authorize his spending, and that is why we were even able to gather here (at the Special Ministerial Conversational Conference). But that the American government is struggling to get authorisation from their own parliament to start what we are already doing. I didn’t say our infrastructure is better than theirs,” he said.
According to the Minister, the deliberate misreporting of his clear statement of fact and the almost spontaneous orchestration of reactions based on the misrepresentation on the social media should send a clear warning to right thinking and well-meaning Nigerians about the type of campaign which the main opposition wants to run towards the 2023 election.
“It’s a campaign of lies and misinformation. The main opposition has a very uncomfortable relationship with the truth, so they are going to run a campaign of lies and disinformation, so we must be ready for it.”
“The progress we are making here make them very uncomfortable, so they can’t disprove that work is going on, they can’t disprove that infrastructure is being developed so they are going to look for every way to distort and misinform the public,” he said .
Noting that he remains undaunted by the unwarranted attacks based on misinformation, the Minister said he took time to make the clarification in the course of the inspection tour to alert well-meaning Nigerians to the kind of campaign which the main opposition wants to run.
HAKEEM BELLO
SPECIAL ADVISER,
COMMUNICATIONS
TO THE HON. MINISTER
28TH JANUARY, 2022
Press Statement
Rt. Hon Dekor Establishes Data Base For Micro, Small, Medium Entrepreneurs
A data base for micro, small and medium entrepreneurs has been established at the Bori Constituency Office of Rt. Hon Robinson Dumnamene Dekor, member representing Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
The data base is to ensure that the people of Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency are adequately captured in his intervention programmes.
The registration of participants which is part of the federal lawmaker’s efforts to support micro, small and medium business owners to overcome the challenges posed by COVID-19 pandemic started Tuesday, January 25 and Wednesday 26, 2022 for Khana and Gokana respectively.
Addressing the constituents ahead of the registration exercise, Rt. Hon Dekor who is the chairman, House Committee on Host Communities said the fund is basically for small scale businesses in the two Local Government Areas to boost the local economy and must not be directed to other ventures.
According to the former Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, and one time commissioner of works, participants should look out for further information on the MSMEs through their phone message inboxes.
All the necessary requirements for the facilitation of the programme, the organizers said, were paid for by Rt. Hon. Dekor.
Impressed by what they described as quality representation by Rt. Hon. Dekor at the National Assembly for Khana and Gokana Federal Constituency, participants of the programme, Mr Itor-Ue Michael Dumle and Kenule Sunday Leyiga who spoke separately for Khana, Charles Feeme and Barimon Dugelo for Gokana commended the federal lawmaker for having the people at heart and prayed God to reward Rt. Hon. Dekor in multiple folds and with long life for all his service to the people and humanity in general.
MEDIA TEAM
January 28, 2022.
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH SENATOR FOLARIN ON LOSS OF WIFE, ANGELA
President Muhammadu Buhari extends heartfelt condolences to Senator Teslim Folarin, the lawmaker representing Oyo Central senatorial district, his children, family members, and friends who mourn the passing of the Senator’s wife, Chief (Barr.) Angela Nwaka Folarin.
The President’s prayers and thoughts are with the Folarins as they grieve the departure of a beloved wife and mother, urging them to find solace and strength in the truth that the Almighty God is always with us through the good and difficult seasons of life.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 28, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES APC STALWART, EMEKA WOGU, AT 57
President Muhammadu Buhari wishes the former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Dr Emeka Wogu, more years of health and happiness, as he turns 57 on January 29, 2022.
The President recognises Chief Wogu’s steadfast commitment and service to the country in different positions of leadership and joins family, friends and well-wishers in praying for enduring strength, grace and wisdom to do more for humanity.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
January 28, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI RECEIVES ‘THANK YOU TEAM’ FROM OGUN, PRAISES QUALITY OF PROJECTS IN THE STATE
President Muhammadu Buhari Friday received illustrious citizens of Ogun State at State House Abuja, who had come to show appreciation for the visit paid their State a fortnight ago.
During the visit, the President had commissioned landmark and legacy projects like roads and housing estates, which he describes as “projects of outstanding quality” during the ‘thank you’ visit.
President Buhari particularly said the new roads would cut travel time considerably, lauding Governor Dapo Abiodun for also working hard on security, and other projects that touch the lives of the people.
He recalled that he began his military career in Abeokuta as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Army, “so I will always see Ogun as home.”
The President appreciated Aremo Olusegun Osoba, a former Governor of the State, who was in the delegation, saying “we have known each other for a very long time.”
Gov Abiodun said the visit was to “express appreciation for the love you have shown our State, and your visit has reassured us that you love our people, and you will continue to give us deserving support.”
He assured that he would continue to make life abundant for the people of Ogun State, through adequate security and economic emancipation.
“Your visit was monumental. We are glad that you are part of the history of our State. I bring you the greetings and appreciation of the more than 300 Obas in Ogun,” said the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, Chairman of the Council of Obas.
Other members of the delegation were Alhaja Salimot Badru, a former deputy governor, and Chief Sulaiman Adegunwa, a foremost industrialist.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
January 28, 2022
January 28, 2022
Press Statement
Insecurity: PDP Mocks, Berates Buhari For Cancelling Trip to Zamfara State
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) berates President Muhammadu Buhari for cancelling his planned visit to troubled Zamfara State.
The Party dismisses President Buhari’s excuse of not travelling to Zamfara State because of inclement flying weather, when he had the option of travelling the short trip from Sokoto to Gusau by road.
We ask, did Mr. President cancel the trip to Zamfara State out of fear of terrorists? Was Mr. President, an Army General, with all the security apparatus under his command afraid to travel by road because he was not sure of his security as well as the dilapidated state of our roads under his watch?
From Sokoto to Gusau, the Zamfara State capital is about 206 kilometers, a journey a leader who has the interest of the people at heart and who is sure of his security could have undertaken by road.
President Buhari ought to have reassured Nigerians by travelling to Gusau, instead he opted for a video broadcast in which he promised the troubled people of the state that he looks “forward to a more weather-friendly period when I will visit”.
This is another sad demonstration of the President leading from behind against his own promise and commitment to Nigerians to lead from the front in the fight against terrorism.
Such attitude to governance speaks volumes as to why our nation is in a shambolic state under the Buhari-led All Progressives Congress (APC) administration which is largely laidback, unconcerned and corrupt.
If truly the people matter to Mr. President and his Party, the APC; if truly President Buhari and the APC believe in Nigerians and feel their pains; if truly they are very concerned about the wellbeing of the people, then Mr. President would have taken it upon himself, with all the apparatus of power at his disposal, to visit and empathize with the people of Zamfara State who are daily traumatized by terrorists.
Our Party is not particularly surprised because this is a Party and President which is always absent in critical areas of our national life. Such absenteeism from responsibility is the hallmark of the APC. Even when prodded to visit such areas, President Buhari will always dwell on excuses, blame game and buck passing.
Nigerians have not forgotten the sad episode of the Agatu Massacre in Benue State wherein President Buhari, on March 12, 2018, told a bewildered nation that he was not aware that the Inspector General of Police was not in the area as directed by him.
In Mr. President’s words, “I’m not aware that the I.G did not spend 24 hours in the state as directed by me, I am getting to know in this meeting.” Such was a miserable demonstration of abdication of leadership.
Indeed, such resort to leadership by proxy is inexcusable and completely unacceptable. Our nation needs a leadership that is active, people-oriented, humane, functional and result-driven; a task which the APC as a party of propaganda, deceit and lies cannot deliver on.
The PDP sympathizes with the people of Zamfara State for being made to waste their meagre resources to organize for a Presidential visit only to get an embarrassing and uninspiring video broadcast.
The PDP however calls on Nigerians not to despair but remain resolute in rallying on the platform of our Party in our mission to Rescue and Rebuild our nation from the stranglehold of misrule. They must keep hope alive as help is on the way from the PDP, come 2023.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PRESIDENT BUHARI SYMPATHISES WITH VICTIMS OF MARKET FIRE INCIDENTS IN ONITSHA
President Muhammadu Buhari extends heartfelt condolences to the victims of the fire incident at the Main Market and Relief Market in Onitsha, Anambra State, respectively, which reportedly destroyed several goods.
The President directs Federal Government’s agencies, working with the State Government, to give the necessary succor, while also urging public spirited individuals and corporate organizations to assist those whose means of livelihood have been affected by the unfortunate incidents.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 28, 2022
January 28, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Extends Tenure of Anambra Caretaker Committees
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has approved the extension of the tenure of the various Anambra State Caretaker Commitees for a period not exceeding 30 days.
The decision of the NWC is in exercise of its powers under the PDP Constitution (2017 as amended).
To this effect, the current members of the Anambra State Caretaker Committees are to continue in their respective capacities for an additional duration not exceeding 30 days, beginning from the expiration of the present tenure on February 6, 2022 to March 6, 2022.
The PDP urges all leaders, critical stakeholders and teeming members of our Party in Anambra state to remain united and focused as we work collectively to Rescue and Rebuild our nation from misrule.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
January 27, 2022
Special Announcement
PDP Fixes Dates for Lagos State Outstanding Congress
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has approved Saturday, February 19, 2022 for the conclusion of the outstanding State Congress for the purpose of electing new State Executive Committee members in Lagos State
Similarly, NWC has scheduled a crucial meeting with Lagos State Stakeholders on Monday, February 07, 2022 at the Zonal Headquarters, Ibadan, Oyo State.
The NWC will continue to update stakeholders on any development in this regard.
Signed:
Hon. Umar M. Bature
National Organizing Secretary
January 27, 2022
Press Statement
2023: PDP Exposes APC, FG Over N3 Trillion Fuel Subsidy Scam
…Demands Full Disclosure of Fuel Importation Costs
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is appalled by the bare-faced move of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led All Progressives Congress (APC) administration to hide under fuel subsidy to siphon and fritter a staggering N3trillion, describing it as outrageous and unpardonable crime against Nigerians.
Whilst the PDP is not against subsidizing petroleum products for Nigerians, our Party rejects this wicked plot by the APC government to use a heavily padded fuel subsidy claims to surreptitiously funnel trillions of naira into the pockets of corrupt APC leaders and their cronies in government ahead of their shameful exit in 2023.
The PDP demands a full disclosure of specifics of the subsidy templates including details of cost of importation of petroleum products into the country to warrant the additional N2.557 trillion being requested by the corrupt APC administration.
The PDP already has information of how corrupt APC leaders pushed for the additional N2.557 trillion to the N443 billion already approved for fuel subsidy in the 2022 budget just to create a surplus as slush fund ostensibly for APC leaders to share as well as deploy to rig the 2023 elections.
The APC government cannot justify the proposed increase in fuel subsidy in the face of incontrovertible evidence of slowing economy and consequential decrease in consumption of petroleum products in Nigeria due largely to the rudderless, irresponsible and insensitive economic policies of the APC as well as the adverse effect of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Nigerians have already noted that the proposed increase is consistent with APC’s typical padding of fuel subsidy ahead of every election cycle. Is it not revealing that while fuel subsidy was N24 billion in 2016 and rose to N144.53 billion in 2017, it spiked to N878 billion in 2018 ahead of the 2019 elections; remained at N551.22 billion in the election year of 2019, only to drop to N102 billion in 2020, after the elections?
It is clear that the APC increased fuel subsidy to N1.4 trillion in 2021 and now barefacedly seeks additional N2.557 trillion to have a cumulative subsidy bill of N3 trillion in 2022 to prosecute the 2023 elections having realized that it has a tough battle with Nigerians because of its monumental failures.
It is even more disturbing that the proposed increase is to be funded through external borrowings, which will further impoverish Nigerians, mortgage the future of our nation and burden future generation of Nigerians just to finance the insatiable greed of APC leaders.
The PDP, standing with the Nigerian people, vehemently rejects the bandying of incoherent, unsubstantiated and heavily doctored figures by the APC government in its desperate lies on domestic consumption and landing costs.
Our Party challenges the APC to present the details of importation costs to Nigerians as no genuine pricing template can support such criminal increase in fuel subsidy beyond the appropriate pricing which experts posit cannot be above N500 billion.
The PDP therefore calls on the National Assembly to stand with the people and reject the scandalous N2.557 trillion addition for fuel subsidy at this critical time as approving such would be a great and unpardonable disservice to Nigerians.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PRESS RELEASE
2023: TINUBU IS MOST SALABLE CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT – SANWO-OLU
The indisputable capability of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to effectively manage human and material resources for visible progress stands him out as the most qualified Nigerian to be president in 2023, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said on Thursday.
The Governor said Tinubu’s qualification rests on his demonstrated capacity in deploying a mix of genius and statecraft to nurture a city on the brink to a flourishing economy, noting that the progress in Lagos remains a visible experiment initiated by the APC National Leader.
Sanwo-Olu drummed support for the Tinubu candidacy during the formal inauguration of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu (ABAT) Movement’s Working Committees in Ikeja GRA. The Movement was conceived and set up by members of Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) in Lagos for the actualisation of the presidential ambition of the former Lagos Governor.
The Governor was in company of his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, and all members of the State Executive Council.
Also, APC leaders across the State’s 57 local councils and a large number of party supporters thronged the event’s venue to lend their support.
Sanwo-Olu said Nigeria had continued to shoulder the burden of the black race, stressing that the country’s transformation into a stable economy would be a source of pride to the black man.
In 2023, the Governor said the country was in need of a capable leader with progressive ideas to succeed President Muhammadu Buhari and build on the progress recorded by the current administration.
Tinubu’s practicable ideas in governance, Sanwo-Olu said, makes him the most qualified successor and salable choice for the job.
The Governor said: “Our country is the most populous black nation in the world and the responsibility that comes with that is enormous. No doubt that the destiny of the entire black race is tied to the greatness of Nigeria. If our country must be great, we have the responsibility to choose the leadership that will bring about true transformation across every facet of our national life. Who is that rallying figure that should lead us in this journey?
“The answer is deeply connected to our mission and purpose here today. That person must be a detribalised Nigerian and a bridge builder, who has been tested and trusted. A thinker who must sustain the legacy our current president is leaving behind. That person is the reason we are inaugurating this Movement for the actualisation of his presidential ambition. That person is our great leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Let us tell the naysayers and those who are still in doubt that we are ready to work for the realisation of this ambition, because Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the Number one salable candidate for the president. We will preach this gospel with diligence, dedication and high sense of commitment. Asiwaju is an unfolding success story our nation deserves at this time.”
Sanwo-Olu said Tinubu’s name is synonymous with growth and development, noting that the APC National Leader possessed a Midas touch to positively turn around the resources of the country for general good.
The Governor said the event was to raise foot soldiers, team leaders and cheerleaders who would pursue the Movement’s objectives and cascade down its messages to every voter at the ward level with commitment and passion.
He charged all selected for leadership roles in the Movement to reflect Tinubu’s political ideals of openness and tolerance in their engagement and mobilisation.
Sanwo-Olu said: “We must see ourselves in line with Asiwaju’s political ideals. To be open to all, tolerate various interests and embrace everyone. We must reflect those ideas of our leader in our utterances and actions. You cannot afford to disappoint us on this mission.”
APC stalwart, Cardinal James Odumbaku, said the forthcoming general election presented another opportunity for Nigerians to make the right choice to keep the country on the path of development.
He said the electorate must get it right by electing a tested and credible leader to steer the leadership of the country, stressing that the movement believed Bola Tinubu remains the right man for the top seat.
He said: “Tinubu is a tested leader to lead Nigeria out of the woods. We will work with passion to ensure he emerge as party candidate and also win the presidential election.”
GAC leader, Prince Tajudeen Olusi described Tinubu as “a genius” in statecraft, saying the APC National Leader is a salable article in the political market.
“We have to be prepared and determined, because the contest would be a battle of might and strength,” the GAC leader said.
The Movement’s Director-General, Honourable Oyinlomo Danmole, said ABAT structure was different from other support groups set up across the country for the actualisation for Tinubu’s presidential ambition.
Reeling out the organs and structures, Danmole said all cluster groups within the Lagos APC have representation in the movement, with the inclusion of every locality in the State.
The DG said seven-man committee had been set up in each of the 57 local councils in Lagos, with each committee headed by coordinators.
At the ward level, he said the movement maintained similar committee structure of seven persons across the 377 wards, adding that registration to be part of the ward committee would be made open to Lagosians in the coming days.
Other speakers at the event included the former Deputy Governors, Mr. Femi Pedro, and Abiodun Ogunleye, and representative of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Dolapo Badru, among others.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
27 JANUARY 2022
Lagos land owner files suit against Carter-Tech Limited for fraudulent breach of Agreement
A Lagos based land owner, Mr. Christopher Folajoye Awosika and Mrs. Esther Olufunmilayo Awosika, has filed a suit before a Lagos High Court, against Carter-Tech Limited for breach of agreement over a parcel of land measuring approximately 1.183 hectares of land at Ologolo ancient Village, Lekki-Epe Express Way, Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State.
Awosika, in suit No. LD/6846GCMW/2020 through his lawyer, Ade Oshodi, told the court that he rightfully purchased the said property from the Ologolo family, the original owners in 1996. Awosika is said to have enjoyed peaceful possession of his land, and even rented it out to a company at some point as a storage facility. However, events took an adverse turn when sometime in 2017, 21 years after he bought the land and 17 years after he had laboriously completed the sand filling and perimeter fence, Awosika (claimants) executed a Finance and Development Agreement for the construction of 50 housing units over the property with (Carter-Tech Limited) the defendant. The claimants’ contribution to the agreement was their land while the defendants were responsible for finance, construction and development.
The counsel also told the court that his clients’ agreed share of the subject property upon completion is 18 housing units while the defendant’s share is 32 housing units.
He also told the court that, “the defendants have since completed the subject property which they termed: ‘Atlantis 2’ and have refused to put the claimants in possession of their housing units despite repeated demands. In fact, despite the ages of the claimants who are both in their late 70’s, the defendants, Carter-Tech Limited through its directors, One Jerry, Samson and Mrs Olopade drove the claimants out of the premises when they approached them for their entitlement in the development” and have since employed various nefarious means to deny them access to the land.
This necessitated the claimants to institute the above action at the High Court of Lagos State claiming amongst other reliefs, the units they are entitled to under the Joint Venture Development Agreement and damages for the fraud perpetrated by Carter-Tech, the defendants.
Notwithstanding, sometime in 2020, the claimants had obtained an order restraining the defendants from selling or alienating any of the 50 housing units, but the (Carter-Tech) defendants have flouted this order of court and has been selling the housing units to unsuspecting third parties/public.
Oshodi, therefore urged the Hon. Justice Oyekan-Abdullah of the High Court of Lagos State to grant an application filed by the claimants to either order the defendants to deliver the claimants’ housing units to them or direct that the official receiver of the court takes over the premises pending the hearing and determination of the suit.
But the application was truncated by the application of Aluko &Oyebode to change counsel from one Yomi Alagbada who earlier acted for the defendants in the suit. Yomi Alagbada however sought to challenge the change of counsel application on the grounds that the defendant (Carter-Tech Limited) still owes his Chambers legal fees. Cater-Tech Ltd were therefore unable to resolve the issue of legal representation.
Justice Oyekan-Abdullah adjourned the matter till 23rd February, 2022 for further proceedings.
PRESIDENT BUHARI SENDS VIDEO/RADIO BROADCAST TO ZAMFARA PEOPLE, AS BAD WEATHER ABORTS CONDOLENCE VISIT
Arising from the cancellation of his scheduled trip to Zamfara State on Thursday due to inclement weather conditions, President Muhammadu Buhari has made a broadcast to the people of the State.
Please find below the text of the broadcast.
My dear people of Zamfara State.
It pains me that I can no longer be with you today as I had planned. I had just finished what I came to do in Sokoto at the BUA cement facility and was looking forward to meeting you.
I have been told that the trip cannot hold anymore because of bad weather which has made it impossible for my helicopter to fly to Gusau from Sokoto.
I understand how you feel about this development but I know that you will agree with me that Allah knows best. I particularly sympathize with your Governor, Bello Matawalle and his cabinet who have put everything in place to make the visit a successful one.
I look forward to a more weather-friendly period when I will visit.
I am directing our security agencies to sustain the onslaught against terrorists, restrict cross-boundary infiltration and all unauthorised access to the goldmines in the state.
The Federal Government and the Zamfara State Government are working to ensure that peace returns to all parts of the State in the shortest possible time and we expect all citizens to cooperate with, and support in all ways, the Armed Forces and other security agencies.
God bless the people of Zamfara State.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 27, 2022
WE’LL DEFEAT FORCES OF EVIL, PRESIDENT BUHARI ASSURES ON CONDOLENCE VISIT IN SOKOTO
President Muhammadu Buhari has again directed the nation’s Armed Forces and other security services to deal decisively with any person or group undermining efforts at achieving sustainable peace, security and stability in the country, assuring that the country will ultimately defeat the forces of evil..
Speaking at the palace of Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, President Buhari said:
“I gave them specific orders not to spare any bandit or terrorist threatening the lives and property of innocent Nigerians.”
The President, who commiserated with the Government and people of Sokoto over the recent loss of lives and property as a result of outrageous attacks by bandits and other criminal gangs, assured the people that he remains unrelenting in his resolve to put an end to heinous criminal activities in the state and other parts of the country.
The President wrote in the visitors’ register: “My condolences to the Sultanate, the Government, and people of Sokoto State over the recent mindless killings by bandits and terrorists.
“Nigeria shall win the battle over evil.”
The Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal and the Sultan thanked the President for the show of sympathy assuring him of continued support towards peace and stability in the country.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 27, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI INAUGURATES 3 MILLION METRIC TONNES BUA CEMENT PLANT IN SOKOTO, SAYS POLICIES ON JOB CREATION, ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION WORKING
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday in Sokoto inaugurated a new 3 million metric tonnes per annum BUA Cement Sokoto Line 4 Factory, expressing delight that the Federal Government policies on economic diversification, job creation and creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive are working.
Speaking at the inauguration of the plant, described as the largest private sector employer of labour in the North-Western part of Nigeria, the President pledged that his administration would continue to support serious investors to set up businesses that will take advantage of huge reserves of resources in different parts of the country.
The President recounted that in 1985 as the then Head of State, he was at the same location to commission the 2nd line of the facility.
”Today, almost thirty-seven years later, to commission the fourth line is a very special day for me personally.
”As you all know, one of the key economic pillars of our administration has been to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. This is necessary for job creation and indeed, for our economy and national security.
”In the past few weeks, I visited Ogun and Kaduna States where I observed many private sector investments in action. And today, I am here in Sokoto to commission this multi-billion Naira project.
”It is therefore very clear for all to see that our policies are working. Progress is gradually being made in all parts of the country,” he said.
The President thanked the Founder of BUA Cement, Abdul Samad Rabiu and the entire team for the great work they are doing in supporting the government’s economic diversification and job creation agenda.
He noted the company, which has completed four new cement plants of similar capacity in the last five years in different parts of the country and is set to complete two more plants soon, had shown through these investments that they believe in Nigeria and its potential.
Commending BUA and other entrepreneurs for making Nigeria self-sufficient in cement and a net exporter of the strategic product, the President said:
”I am pleased that through these investments, BUA Cement has created employment opportunities for our citizens. Today, BUA is the largest employer of labour in the North-West region.
”I always remind Nigerians that every region, indeed every State, in Nigeria sits on huge reserves of resources. For example, in this area, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara can boast of rice production, gold and other precious metals development and of course, heavy industries like cement manufacturing.
”As a Government, we introduced policies and mechanisms to support such investments in a legal, ethical and inclusive manner.
”For example, we have the National Food Security Council on Food Security Matters and the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Development Initiative to develop local artisanal gold mining and ensure health and safety of mining workers and protect the environment.
”We remain prepared to support serious investors to set up businesses that will take advantage of these opportunities through value addition so as to take advantage of the huge market here, as well as in the greater African region and the world at large.”
Highlighting other efforts to bring even development to all parts of the country, the President expressed confidence that the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) gas project, when completed, will bring gas for domestic and industrial purposes from the South South region to the South East, North Central and North West Geopolitical zones.
He said the AKK project would significantly reduce cost of operations for industries in the regions.
The President also used the occasion to reassure Nigerians that his government would continue to invest heavily in roads and rails to ease movement of people, goods and services, with a view to facilitating trade while lowering logistics costs associated with the inefficiencies of bad roads and bridges.
On security, President Buhari reiterated his commitment to bring peace and stability to all parts of Nigeria, listing a raft of measures undertaken by this administration to ensure that normalcy returns to the country.
”We continue to recruit and equip security personnel while expanding our social investment programs to support the youth and some of the most vulnerable members of our communities.
”You should all be reassured that we will win this battle against the criminal elements looking to destabilize our nation by hindering the progress of our economy.
”I want to now call on all entrepreneurs and businesses to emulate what is being done here.
”The task of nation building requires all hands to be on deck. The public and private sectors must collaborate if we are to achieve our aim of collective peace and prosperity across the entire nation.”
Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman, BUA Cement, who commended the President for creating the enabling environment for businesses to thrive, acknowledged the support of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and its Governor in setting up the gigantic project.
He announced that, ”so far, we have invested over a billion dollars in the past four years and we urge the CBN to continue to support industries like ours that use locally sourced raw materials to add value.”
He pledged that BUA would continue to invest more in the cement industry until Nigeria is self-sufficient and the commodity is made available, accessible, and affordable for all Nigerians.
”In the past 6 years, we have completed 4 plants – two in Obu, Edo State and two in Sokoto (of which this Sokoto line 4 is the fourth) with BUA’s total production capacity now standing at 11.5million tonnes with the completion of this plant.
”Next year, we intend to complete the construction of two new plants of 3 million metric tonnes each for which construction is ongoing – one in Edo and the other, here in Sokoto.”
The Chairman of BUA said he looked forward to President Buhari commissioning these plants next year which will bring total production capacity to 17.5million metric tonnes.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 27, 2022
“JULIUS BERGER IS PREFERRED CONTRACTOR BECAUSE OF THE COMPANY’S PROVEN AND UNMATCHED PROJECT DELIVERY RECORDS”
–Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu at Flag-off of Ojota-Opebi Link Bridges and approach Roads
Lagos State Governor, His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-olu has described Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, as one company that has a proven record of matchless construction jobs in the country, adding that the foregoing is one of the reasons why the state government chose the company as its preferred contractor to handle its legacy project which was flagged off in Ikeja Wednesday afternoon.
The governor spoke at the flag-off of its legacy project; the Ojota-Opebi Link Bridges and approach Roads in Lagos State
In his speech, Sanwo-olu said that “Julius Berger has a proven track record for foremost construction jobs; it has wealth of experience especially in the type of terrain where this project covers. We had no choice but to choose them as our preferred contractor. In addition, to show their commitment, Julius Berger has already moved to site and are ready to work.” He therefore enjoined the famously reliable Julius Berger to try to complete the project within 18 months adding, “…you have 20 months to deliver the job. However, I want to stretch you a bit. Deliver the project in 18 months so that you will once again write you name in the history book of Lagos. You have done it before; you can do it again.”
Saying that Lagos state government and Julius Berger are partners who have made the project execution stage possible, Governor Sanwo-olu explained that the project which was conceptualised over 20 years ago by previous governments in the state, was long abandoned till his government picked it up for execution only last year.
“We are not just building roads but solving traffic problems with enhanced interconnectivity to make life more meaningful to all our people in Lagos state. Presently, there is no direct access link between Opebi and Maryland and Ojota. Hence there is the need for this legacy project which will also have an interchange at Maryland for commuters’ convenience with reduced traffic gridlock all over Lagos,” the governor said.
Earlier, the Special Adviser to the governor on Works and Infrastructure, Engr Aramide Adeyoye assured that the project will not be abandoned, saying: “…the project has been awarded to Messrs Julius Berger Nigeria Plc who had successfully carried out extensive studies and engineering investigations along the project alignment as far back as 20 years ago when it was first conceived. The contactor is determined to work assiduously to deliver the project in 20 months. At this stage it is noteworthy to reassure all that the administration of Governor Sanwo-olu is determined to ensure that the project does not end up being abandoned as necessary funding mechanism has been put in place to guarantee its timely completion.”
Present at the event were top Lagos state government officials including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat.
Led by the Managing Director, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter, Julius Berger delegation included Regional Manager, Commercial, Region West, Mr. Alexander Bauer, Regional Manager, Technical, Region West, Thomas Balzuweit and Engr. Nath Ikem. Others were, Engr Adegbenga Osunlana, Engr. Bolaji Johnson, Engr. Rasheedat Anifowoshe, Mrs Victoria Biachi and Media Relations Officer, Emmanuel Isibor.
Women in the South-South geo-political zone on Tuesday applauded the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio for imprinting his integrity on all that he did in the private sector, Akwa Ibom State and the Senate.
The women also commended Akpabio for pouring out his milk of kindness to the Niger Delta people and contributing to the stability of the polity.
At the inauguration of the South-South Women Political Front (SSWPF) in Port Harcourt, the women appealed to Nigerians in the Diaspora as well as foreigners to put pressure on Akpabio to contest the 2023 presidential election.
‘’Mr. President is comfortable with the prospect of Akpabio taking over from him. The Niger Delta Affairs Minister is hardworking, honest, suave and accommodating. He is in the best position to serve the country’’
The inauguration attracted hundreds of women across the length and breadth of the South-South geo-political zone.
The women spoke on physical development in the Niger Delta region, judicious utilization of funds, vision, discipline and credibility.
Spokesperson of SSWPF, Dr. Doris Ogba disclosed to reporters after the meeting in Port Harcourt that they had gone far in their discussion with prominent politicians from the North, South East and South West on power shift come 2023.
‘’ Senator Godswill Akpabio has political credibility and strong network across the country. He is a detribalized man and a man of the people. He is building bridges of peace and understanding between the South and the North of this country’’
The women praised Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and other ethnic groups in the region for supporting Akpabio.
They also pounced on the leadership of the project Niger Delta (PND).
‘’The comments made by Timpre Ebebi are offensive, bigoted and disgusting. He does not speak on behalf of the region and his views certainly don’t reflect those of the region’s leaders’’
The women emphasized continuous investment in infrastructure, security, education and health in the region.
They also highlighted Akpabio’s devotion to moral purity, capacity for honesty, anti-corruption posture and the critical need to work together in view of moving the region to the next level.
Afegbua to Atiku: You are not destined to be president
Former Edo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Kassim Afegbua on Monday dismissed insinuations from some quarters that he had anything personal against Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.
‘’Following my interrogation of the Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s presidential aspiration and the urgent need to cede the nomination of the PDP ticket to the Southern part of Nigeria, the alarm bells have been let loose. Expectedly, I have been called all manner of names and accused wrongly, just to extract a pound of flesh from me for daring to question the rationale for Atiku presidency in 2023 at the age of Methuselah. I do not have anything personal against Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, but I disagree with his latest resolve at being a professional aspirant or perpetual candidate from 1991 till date. Politics has a process and timing’’.
He also advised the country’s former vice president not to hesitate to contribute his own quota in his capacity as a senior citizen towards the development of the nation.
‘’Alhaji Atiku is mortally misplaced at this moment. Having put up such a strong showing in 2019, I thought very sensibly, that was the climax of a journey that started in 1990 when he initially aspired to preside over the country with Late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, easily called M.K.O Abiola. Alhaji was in that equation even though at the end of the day, he was prevailed upon to step down for MKO Abiola. And the rest is history’’.
In a statement in Abuja on Monday, Afegbua said the age of methuselah in Nigeria politics was no longer fashionable.
‘’Nigeria is a plural society with several political interests competing for attention. It is a country of many tribal leanings and clannish configurations. After the EndSars protest and the lukewarm attitude of the current president before he reluctantly addressed the nation, it became obvious that the age of methuselah in Nigeria politics was no longer fashionable. Nigerians now yearn for younger leadership who is upwardly mobile to preside over the affairs of the nation, leaders who have the technical ability and managerial acumen to preside over our disparities and ethnicities, and create a balance towards national cohesion and stability. Nigerians are looking forward to welcoming a new dawn in our body.of politics, some.kind of paradigm shift that would.give opportunity to our younger generation to politically assume a pride of place in the scheme of things’’
The former spokesman of Atiku said for stability and good governance to be achieved in Nigeria, there must be a rejection of travelling the road of the aged.
‘’ President Buhari has not helped matters. He has raised very curious remarks about the sanctity of travelling the road of the aged. Aside from being taciturn, president Buhari is not creative and result-driven. His go-slow style has affected our reading of the older generations who appear unwilling to quit the stage while the ovation is still loud. Buhari’s standoffish attitude and leadership weakness has become Atiku’s albatross. President Buhari has pointedly declared that at 79, working 6 to 8 hours daily is no joke, reason why it will be an exercise in self-destruct to chart the course of an Atiku post Buhari era’’.
He urged Atiku to honourably quit the stage for others to try their luck.
‘’From 1990 till date, Atiku Abubakar has featured in our politics at regular intervals. Remove 32 years away from Alhaji Atiku’s age; you will readily see the beauty.of a young man who got involved at such a middle age to seek the presidency of the country. After 32 years, he should honourably quit the stage for others to try their luck. That is the beauty of life’s evolutionary process. Seeking for that same position which he sought for in 1990 at this age and time is like performing a surgical operation with a blunt scalpel. His closest was the 2019 experience. Bookmakers said he won the election, but INEC thought otherwise’’
Afegbua lamented how Atiku vanished to thin air after the 2019 presidential election.
‘’After the 2019 election, when the dust of that election had not settled, when tempers were still high and emotions were still boiling, Alhaji Atiku simply vanished to thin air. He was no where to be seen. His next address was Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates. When the party members wanted to see him, they had to travel to Dubai. The tribunal came, and Alhaji was nowhere near the courts. Imagine how it would have been seeing him with his Lawyers inside the courtroom, it would have given a sense of motivation and encouragement to all the factors that participated in that election. We waited, kept our eyes on the road, thinking he would join us. Alas!! He was away in the comfort zone of Dubai’s architectural wonders while we remained here in Nigeria like orphans or fatherless children. The tribunal case ended on a loss note. That was to mark another evolutionary watershed in the history of electoral petitions in Nigeria. But in all of the actions, Alhaji Atiku was absent’’.
He said it was time to discuss power shift to the Southern part of the country in 2023.
‘’When they are seeking for election, they try to act as father-figure, pretending to have the interest of the people at heart, but when you need them to give you protection, they hide in the comfort zone of their empire. For those of us who were Spokesmen of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council, it was difficult getting to sit Alhaji Atiku down to robustly engage, at least to glean from his perspectives on issues. After the election, and after his escape from the shores of Nigeria, there was no post-election thank you. And this is not about material gratification. Far from it! It was simply by way of hosting a meeting to say; guys, you all are great. You made me proud and gave your all. I appreciate. No way!!. Instead, for two years, Alhaji Atiku was in Dubai, and left us in the lurch. When he returned to the country and the idea of recontesting struck his mind, he wrote personalized letters to some chosen associates, supporters and stakeholders. When I got my own letter, I asked a couple of questions. Aside from being a regular face in the political firmament of Nigeria, like Robert Mugabe to Zimbabweans, Alhaji Atiku’s aspiration was wrongly footed. The pendulum of the political equations and algorithms has to shift to the Southern part of the country in 2023’’.
He urged Atiku to support a younger element from the south as a way to assuage the feelings of the people.
‘’After an unbroken 8 years run by President Buhari, it will be immoral for any Northerner to aspire to govern the country on another run of 8 years. That would be injustice of the first order. Even if the equation becomes so compelling, we could opt for a younger element to fill the void. Contesting for presidential elections since 1990 till date without success is enough indication that he was not destined to be. At this age and time, I would rather he supports a younger element from the south as a way to assuage the feelings of the people. Political greed and selfishness has its own undercurrent. Just like power and its aphrodisiac, it makes men blind to their real intentions. Their eyes will be fixated on the aplomb of power, its allure and appurtenances. But the dynamics of the moment and the learned experiences from President Buhari’s gloomy and uneventful leadership have combined to hurt the dialectics of an Atiku aspiration’’.
Specifically, Afegbua called for geo-political zones balancing through robust interactions and constructive engagement.
‘’The country must consciously engage with diverse interests across the land. Individual and collective interests must be cultivated. Geopolitical zones balancing through robust interactions and constructive engagement are the required process to build national cohesion. And with the way the country has become, a Southern presidency is one that will invariably calm frayed nerves and put paid to some agitations that have been threatening the unity of the country’’.
He urged Nigerians not to devote time, energy and resources in championing the aspirations of a man who has been a perpetual aspirant and a recurring decimal in our national politics since 1990
‘’The route I have taken is one borne out of my deep conviction that Nigeria needs to chart a new course of action. It is one that reminds me that if we choose to do things differently, we will achieve greater success than devote time, energy and resources in championing the aspirations of a man who has been a perpetual aspirant and a recurring decimal in our national politics since 1990. I hold no grudge. It is out of love that I have spoken truth to the man, and I welcome all the insults and abuses. Not long, my interrogations would yield the desired result and I do hope that Alhaji Atiku would not end up gnashing his teeth to lament the turn out of events with the usual malaproprian bluff; had I know. The resources he intends to lavish at this political contestation should serve other purposes that could impact on the wellbeing of his followers and supporters. The binoculars for the 2023 presidential contest does not pick the image of Alhaji Abubakar. The earlier he quits the race, the better for his cherished history, the better for his political trajectory. Those who are waiting to profit from his involvement might not like my invocations, but in the long run, it will form a basis to assess the totality of his political emanations as he ages on’’.
The Edo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain advised Atiku to learn from Mugabe’s journey in Zimbabwe that ended in infamy and public disgrace.
‘’At 77 in 2023, I will rather quit politics, such a vocation where insults are hurled at you, than stay put in the name of putting up a try. When the sunshine of Mugabe of Zimbabwe was ebbing, he frowned at those who gave him honest advice and romanced those praise singers who said he was the father of the nation of Zimbabwe. At the end, his fall from glory was the denouement of a journey that ended in infamy and public disgrace. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, I still wish you well’’.
IS ATIKU THE MUGABE OF NIGERIA POLITICS?
Following my interrogation of the Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s presidential aspiration and the urgent need to cede the nomination of the PDP ticket to the Southern part of Nigeria, the alarm bells have been let loose. Expectedly, I have been called all manner of names and accused wrongly, just to extract a pound of flesh from me for daring to question the rationale for Atiku presidency in 2023 at the age of Methuselah. I do not have anything personal against Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, but I disagree with his latest resolve at being a.professional aspirànt or perpetual candidate from 1991 till date. Politics has a process and timing. The timing for a fresh mandate for Alhaji Atiku is mortally misplaced at this moment. Having put up such a strong showing in 2019, I thought very sensibly, that was the climax of a journey that started in 1990 when he initially aspired to preside over the country with Late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, easily called M.K.O Abiola. Alhaji was in that equation even though at the end of the day, he was prevailed upon to step down for MKO Abiola. And the rest is history.
Nigeria is a plural society with several political interests competing for attention. It is a country of many tribal leanings and clannish configurations. After the EndSars protest and the lukewarm attitude of the current president before he reluctantly addressed the nation, it became obvious that the age of methuselah in Nigeria politics was no longer fashionable. Nigerians now yearn for younger leadership who is upwardly mobile to preside over the affairs of the nation, leaders who have the technical ability and managerial acumen to preside over our disparities and ethnicities, and create a balance towards national cohesion and stability. Nigerians are looking forward to welcoming a new dawn in our body.of politics, some.kind of paradigm shift that would.give opportunity to our younger generation to politically assume a pride of.place in the scheme of.things. President Buhari has not helped matters. He has raised very curious remarks about the sanctity.of travelling the road of the aged. Aside from being taciturn, president Buhari is not creative and result-driven. His go-slow style has affected our reading of the older generations who appear unwilling to quit the stage while the ovation is still loud. Buhari’s standoffish attitude and leadership weakness has become Atiku’s albatross. President Buhari has pointedly declared that at 79, working 6 to 8 hours daily is no joke, reason why it will be an exercise in self destruct to chart the course of an Atiku post Buhari era.
From 1990 till date, Atiku Abubakar has featured in our politics at regular intervals. Remove 32 years away from Alhaji Atiku’s age, you will readily see the beauty.of a young man who got involved at such a middle age to seek the presidency of the country. After 32 years, he should honourably quit the stage for others to try their luck. That is the beauty of life’s evolutionary process. Seeking for that same position which he sought for in 1990 at this age and time is like performing a surgical operation with a blunt scalpel. His closest was the 2019 experience. Bookmakers said he won the election, but INEC thought otherwise. After the 2019 election, when the dust of that election had not settled, when tempers were still high and emotions were still boiling, Alhaji Atiku simply vanished to thin air. He was no where to be seen. His next address was Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates. When the party members wanted to see him, they had to travel to Dubai. The tribunal came, and Alhaji was nowhere near the courts. Imagine how it would have been seeing him with his Lawyers inside the courtroom, it would have given a sense of.motivation and encouragement to all the factors that participated in that election. We waited, kept our eyes on the road, thinking he would join us. Alas!! He was away in the comfort zone of Dubai’s architectural wonders while we remained here in Nigeria like orphans or fatherless children. The tribunal case ended on a loss note. That was to mark another evolutionary watershed in the history of electoral petitions in Nigeria. But in all of the actions, Alhaji Atiku was absent.
When they are seeking for election, they try to act as father-figure, pretending to have the interest of the people at heart, but when you need them to give you protection, they hide in the comfort zone of their empire. For those of us who were Spokesmen of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council, it was difficult getting to sit Alhaji Atiku down to robustly engage, at least to glean from his perspectives on issues. After the election, and after his escape from the shores of Nigeria, there was no post-election thank you. And this is not about material gratification. Far from it! It was simply by way of hosting a meeting to say; guys, you all are great. You made me proud and gave your all. I appreciate. No way!!. Instead, for two years, Alhaji Atiku was in Dubai, and left us in the lurch. When he returned to the country and the idea of recontesting struck his mind, he wrote personalized letters to some chosen associates, supporters and stakeholders. When I got my own letter, I asked a couple of questions. Aside from being a regular face in the political firmament of Nigeria, like Robert Mugabe to Zimbabweans, Alhaji Atiku’s aspiration was wrongly footed. The pendulum of the political equations and algorithms has to shift to the Southern part of the country in 2023.
After an unbroken 8 years run by President Buhari, it will be immoral for any Northerner to aspire to govern the country on another run of 8 years. That would be injustice of the first order. Even if the equation becomes so compelling, we could opt for a younger element to fill the void. Contesting for presidential elections since 1990 till date without success is enough indication that he was not destined to be. At this age and time, I would rather he supports a younger element from the south as a way to assuage the feelings of the people. Political greed and selfishness has its own undercurrent. Just like power and its aphrodisiac, it makes men blind to their real intentions. Their eyes will be fixated on the aplomb of.power, its allure and appurtenances. But the dynamics of the moment and the learned experiences from President Buhari’s gloomy and uneventful leadership, have combined to hurt the dialectics of an Atiku aspiration. The country must consciously engage with diverse interests across the land. Individual and collective interests must be cultivated. Geopolitical zones balancing through robust interactions and constructive engagement are the required process to build national cohesion. And with the way the country has become, a Southern presidency is one that will invariably calm frayed nerves and put paid to some agitations that have been threatening the unity of the country.
The route I have taken is one borne out of my deep conviction that Nigeria needs to chart a new course of action. It is one that reminds me that if we choose to do things differently, we will achieve greater success than devote time, energy and resources in championing the aspirations of a man who has been a perpetual aspirànt and a recurring decimal in our national politics since 1990. I hold no grudge. It is out of love that I have spoken truth to the man, and I welcome all the insults and abuses. Not long, my interrogations would yield the desired result and I do hope that Alhaji Atiku would not end up gnashing his teeth to lament the turn out of events with the usual malaproprian bluff; had I know. The resources he intends to lavish at this political contestation should serve other purposes that could impact on the wellbeing of his followers and supporters. The binoculars for the 2023 presidential contest does not pick the image of Alhaji Abubakar. The earlier he quits the race, the better for his cherished history, the better for his political trajectory. Those who are waiting to profit from his involvement might not like my invocations, but in the long run, it will form a basis to assess the totality of his political emanations as he ages on. At 77 in 2023, I will rather quit politics, such a vocation where insults are hurled at you, than stay put in the name of putting up a try. When the sunshine of Mugabe of Zimbabwe was ebbing, he frowned at those who gave him honest advise and romanced those praise singers who said he was the father of the nation of Zimbabwe. At the end, his fall from glory was the denouement of a journey that ended in infamy and public disgrace. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, I still wish you well.
PRESIDENT BUHARI MOURNS MURDERED FIVE-YEAR-OLD HANIFA, COMMENDS DETECTIVE OPERATIONS LEADING TO ARRESTS
President Muhammadu Buhari Friday expressed the nation’s condolences to the family of the five-year-old school girl Hanifa Abubakar whose body was discovered in a shallow grave in Kano after near two months of fruitless search.
The President in the same breath has praised the work of the police and the secret service in unraveling the mystery behind the disappearance of Hanifa, and particularly for the arrest of her teacher and his other accomplices suspected of the child’s kidnap and murder.
President Buhari said the family and the whole nation which followed up on Hanifa’s travail every day since her disappearance in December last year were hoping for the girl to have been rescued alive and well, adding however that the very thorough and painstaking detective operation by the law enforcement bodies, leading to the discovery of the corpse and the arrest of the suspects who have already made confessions was commendable, calling it an achievement that should instill more public confidence in the authorities.
“When breakthroughs like this happen, people will talk differently of law enforcement,” said the President.
President Buhari prayed for the repose of the soul of the little school girl and urged her parents to bear the sad loss with courage and fortitude in God.
The President urged the Police and Ministry of Justice to uphold the integrity of the detective work that busted the case by preparing well and presenting a good case that will earn the respect of the court.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 21, 2022
A UK-AFRICA TRADE DEAL WOULD CREATE JOBS AND BOOST THE COMMONWEALTH – POST-BREXIT, IT IS NOW POSSIBLE By Muhammadu Buhari
A deal would enable Britain to practice the free trade it has long preached and represent recognition by a G7 economy of the benefits of African unity, writes President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria
Two years after the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union, my country Nigeria and her African partners seek a new settlement with Britain: one based on cooperation in fairer – and freer – trade.
The UK and Nigeria share a deep and special partnership. We are champions for peace and security in Africa. We are custodians of the Commonwealth. Yet in recent years our relationship, particularly on trade, has been defined by Britain’s membership of the European Union.
It meant being part of attempts to cajole individual African nations into lopsided European bilateral economic partnership agreements. Nigeria rejected such a deal in 2018, as it sought only to prioritise beneficial terms for raw commodities export to Europe while erecting high tariff barriers to goods manufactured and processed in Africa – stunting job creation. Lack of employment is a key cause of mass migration from Africa to Europe, perversely caused by the very trade policies intended for Europe’s protection.
Now, all this can be changed. Last September, history was made with the UK becoming the first country in the world to sign a memorandum with the African Union’s 54-country Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This should lead to a UK-African union free trade deal. It would be one made with parity, considering Africa’s $3tn combined GDP is equivalent to that of the United Kingdom, the world’s fifth-largest economy.
Given that the Commonwealth’s 19 African members collectively produce over half the African continent’s GDP, a UK-Africa deal would, concurrently, cause a revitalisation of intra-Commonwealth trade and with it the club itself – a stated British foreign policy aim. This could be further enhanced should we take advantage of the fact those 19 nations’ national laws are built on the principles of English jurisprudence: a common platform from which to better align regulations on investment and certification.
A deal would enable Britain to practice the free trade it has long preached. It would represent recognition by a G7 economy of the benefits of African unity; that job creation and manufacturing in Africa can be an advantage and not a threat to the western world. And it would inject momentum into a renewed Commonwealth, after decades during which the organisation’s potential for economic cooperation was in abeyance while its most influential founding member was bound to European trade policies and unable to act alone. A Commonwealth rebuilt around trade would help replenish this underused club of friends.
But before we reach ahead of ourselves, we must remember that though the purpose of trade deals should be mutual prosperity, favorable terms can be rejected because little attention has been made to persuade public opinion. On both sides, there will be those concerned over competition and terms of trade.
To carry our citizens with us we must start by agreeing on the most favorable trading terms for those products each other does not produce. Fresh and processed foodstuffs, for instance, which cannot be grown in the UK should be prioritised with favorable or no tariffs.
For British companies seeking opportunities in Africa, there should be incentives for sectors heavy in job creation. Here there are millions of highly-skilled, English-speaking but underemployed young people. They are eager to work but without the opportunities that foreign investment can bring to create jobs and build businesses.
This great market is Britain’s opportunity. But, of course, some see it as a threat to where jobs can only be lost and from where immigrants come. They view engagement as a partially open door that will only become wider – unless borders become walls, and Britain a fortress.
That is a mistake. Those who rail against “economic migrants” must realise few people anywhere wish to leave their communities to live in foreign lands. Most would rather stay at home. But the way to help them stay there is not by force, or walls, or racism: it is investment and jobs where they live.
And those jobs will be needed to produce the goods and services demanded by Africa’s growing middle class, whose number is predicted to be close to one billion by 2050. They will not be cheaper replacements for employment lost in Britain or elsewhere: rather extra jobs, created by expanding opportunities in a growing African economy.
Those who come from Britain seeking opportunities will be welcomed by an expanding and worldly-wise middle class wishing to experience the best of British culture, products, and expertise – from television and creative industries to iconic cars and education services.
Being the first mover amongst the G7 to seek a trade deal with Africa, the UK is positioning itself to secure the very best of terms and stands able to revive intra-Commonwealth trade, replenish its relations with the fastest growing market in the world, tackle the causes of economic migration – and create jobs and wealth that boost rather than threaten those at home.
Muhammadu Buhari is President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Originally published in The Independent of London
‘‘SEEING IS BELIEVING,’’ PRESIDENT BUHARI THUMBS UP EL-RUFAI AFTER COMMISSIONING PROJECTS IN ZARIA, KADUNA
President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday continued the inauguration of projects executed by the Kaduna State Government, with stops at Zaria, heaping encomiums on Governor Nasir El-Rufai saying, ‘‘I am pleased to be associated with your successes and initiatives.’’
Speaking at the palace of the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, the President noted that within the context of scarce resources and prevailing economic reality, the Kaduna State government has done well for the people.
‘‘As they say in Hausa ‘Gani ya Kori ji’ (seeing is believing),’’ he said.
The President, who is on a four-day official visit to the State, had on Thursday commissioned projects in Kafanchan and Kaduna metropolis in the State.
On Friday in Zaria, the northern senatorial district of Kaduna, the President inaugurated the remodelled Sabon Gari market with 3,400 shops; the Circular road with two spurs on River road and Kufena road; and the Queen Elizabeth way.
At the Sabon-Gari market, President Buhari, while appreciating the governor for rebuilding one of the oldest markets in the State and paying compensation of over N300 million to traders, jocularly said he would consider opening a consultancy service in the market, where a ‘‘Presidential Block’’ is named after him.
In his remarks, Governor El-Rufai recalled that in August 2019, the President was in Zaria to commission Phase 2 of the Zaria water project, providing a basic amenity that was not available for residents of Zaria for over 30 years.
‘‘Our State is an agricultural State and this Emirate is associated with farming. We know Mr President’s passion for agriculture and we are grateful you appointed a son of the State to head the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.
‘‘We look forward to more agricultural interventions in the State,’’ the Governor said, pledging that the people of Kaduna and their elected representatives will continue to stand by the principles and values associated with the President: honesty, integrity and commitment to public service.
The Emir of Zazzau thanked the President for the intervention of the Federal Ministry of Health in providing a functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine at Ahamdu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria, in line with the desire of the people of Zazzau.
‘‘Today our people don’t have to travel to Kano, Sokoto or Abuja for medical screening with MRI machine,’’ he said.
The first class traditional ruler commended Governor Nasir El-Rufai for the Urban Renewal Projects embarked upon by his administration, acknowledging that the Emir of Zazzau’s Palace which has been in existence for centuries, was a major beneficiary of the projects.
‘‘We will be grateful if Mr President will thank and bless our Governor for the gigantic legacy project ongoing in the Place. Equally, Zaria people have benefitted in other areas like road construction and bridges which have expanded road networks as well as decongested traffic significantly,’’ he said.
On security, the Emir, while acknowledging the efforts of the government, solicited for more intervention by the Federal Government in the area, noting that Zaria emirate is a gateway to all the States in the North West as well neighbouring Niger Republic.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 21, 2022
Kangiwa promises training support for tourism development in Epe LGA
The Director General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, NIHOTOUR, Alhaji Nura Kangiwa, has stated the commitment of the Institute in the promotion of Grass-Root Tourism Development in the country, noting that it is where the tourism potentials of the country are domiciled.
A press release signed by NIHOTOUR’s Director of Media & Public Relations, indicated that Kangiwa made the remark when he received the Chairperson of Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun at the headquarters of the Institute in Abuja.
The NIHOTOUR helmsman said as part of its human capacity training and development, NIHOTOUR is willing to partner with the Local government in the training of youths of the Council Area in artistry skills in travel-tourism and hospitality related trades.
The Director General noted that efforts of the Institute in providing training for youths and women across the length and breadth of the country is informed by its desire to contribute as much as it can in the fight against unemployment and youth restiveness through skill acquisition trainings that create job opportunities for the youths.
He commended the efforts of the Epe Council area in the promotion of eco-tourism in Lagos State, promising that NIHOTOUR is prepared to collaborate and offer support in the area of manpower training needed to drive the tourism activities of the LGA.
Speaking earlier, Princess Surah Animashaun said she was on the courtesy visit to NIHOTOUR to explore areas of collaboration with the Institute in her efforts to promote the tourism potentials of the local government and tap from the economic benefits of the industry.
She therefore solicited for the support of the Institute in empowering youths and women of the council area in the various travel-tourism and hospitality trades, stating that this will go a long way in providing job opportunities as well as help check the menace caused by unemployment among the youths.
Press Statement
RIVPA Congratulates New Rivers NUJ Exco
We wish to congratulate and felicitate with the newly elected state executive council, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State led by Comrade Stanley Job Stanley.
On behalf of all the private media operating in the State and their editorial staff, we share in the infectious joy and wide celebrations that greeted the emergence of the New Exco after four failed previous attempts to get the election process underway.
Our immense gratitude also goes to the Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, and former State Chairman of the Council, Pastor Paulinus Nsirim whose timely intervention to broker peace between the warrying factions helped the process to succeed.
Also not left out are the most respected elders of the council, Rt. Hon. Ogbonna Nwuke, former Commissioner for Information and Communications, Elder Ignatius Chukwu and the national Vice President, Zone F of NUJ, our very own Opaka Dakubo for the prominent role they played in bringing peace and reconciliation among the gladiators.
It must however be pointed out that in the election there were no real winners or losers. The only winner is the NUJ Rivers State Council.
We therefore wish to advise that all the differences and seeming bad blood generated during the initial stage of the election process be put behind and a new relationship rooted in brotherhood, one profession, one union be the commanding and propelling force for the welfare and happiness of the greater majority of all our members in the Pen Fraternity.
And to all practicing journalists in the private media, this is the time to get up and be alive to your pride of place and superior status as the Gramour-bearers of all journalists not only in Rivers State or Nigeria but anywhere in the world.
Never again will you be taken for granted by those that ride and survive on your very own goodwill and professional skills as the purveyors of hard facts and watchdog of the society.
It’s painful to have the hen that lays the golden egg derided, insulted and disenfranchised not realizing that what makes the battlefield is the soldiers and not the bush.
Let it also be pointed out that no one is to blame for this misnomer for “no one will say there you are, except you say here I am”.
We however, thank God that the incidents that threatened the success of the election have left some good lessons for all journalists in the State as well as all prospective aspirants to NUJ leadership in future.
At least, we have learnt that never again will anybody or group no matter how few or small be taken for granted.
Everybody matters in the pursuit of our collective welfare: The Exco, the opponents, the larger chapels, the smaller chapels, the print, the electronic, the active, the armchair, etc.
Once again, congratulations and to God be the glory.
Pastor Jerry Needam, JP
Chairman RIVPA
Rivers State.
Friday, January 21, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI SAYS DEMOCRATIC PRINCIPLES MUST GUIDE DEMOCRATIC CHOICES
President Muhammadu Buhari, Thursday in Kafanchan, Kaduna State underlined his resolve to consolidate the country’s political system to improve the quality of the people’s lives because “the people matter.”
In an address at the palace of Alhaji Muhammadu Isa 11, the Emir of Jama’a, President Buhari said “we are doing our efforts to consolidate the system for the good of the people because they matter.”
To this end, he spoke about the use of the police and the military, in dealing with security situations but urged Nigerians to develop confidence in civil authority to build a system “free of chaos.”
“Nobody,” he warned emphatically, “should be allowed to raise an army of thugs to force himself on the people. This,” he added, “must be very clear.”
The President gave assurances of the determination of his administration “to hand over a better Nigeria than the one we inherited,” and urged Nigerians to be fair in their assessment of what his government has achieved especially on the campaign promises he made ahead of the 2015 elections.
The President commended Governor Nasir El-Rufa’i of Kaduna State for his accomplishments in the provision of infrastructure, saying:
“I’m very impressed by the rehabilitation of the town (Kafanchan) I have seen,” he said, after commissioning the newly constructed Dan Haya road, Katsina road and the Emir’s Palace road in Kafanchan.
President Buhari, who urged residents of the area to show appreciation for the projects, also commended Alhaji Muhammed Isa, the Emir, for his consolidation of peace among the diverse ethnic and religious communities of the Emirate.
In his remarks, Governor El-Rufa’i acknowledged the President’s investments in security in the area, noting in particular that the establishment of security outfits had paved the way for reduced attacks on people, stating categorically that Kafanchan is much safer today than it used to be.
In acknowledging the improvements in security in the area, the Emir requested permanent bases for the Air Force and the Mobile Police, as well as the restoration of the rail services for which Kafanchan had achieved renown.
The President was welcomed to the community by the Senator and Members of the House of Representatives from the zone, and a large number of enthusiastic citizens who thronged the streets.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 20, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI INAUGURATES KAWO FLYOVER, OTHER PROJECTS IN KADUNA, RECOUNTS NEAR-DEATH EXPERIENCE IN 2014
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday inaugurated the 800-metre long flyover in Kawo, Kaduna State, recounting how he narrowly escaped a targeted bomb attack in the vicinity in 2014.
Reminiscing on the unfortunate incident, which claimed the lives of many innocent Nigerians, the President said he remains grateful to God for sparing his life on that fateful day on Ali Akilu road, Kawo-Kaduna.
”For many years, I always plied this route and I cannot recount how many times I crossed it.
”There was an attempt on my life on this road. Nothing happened to me just like the 30 months I spent during the civil war.
”They wanted to blow up the vehicle I was in around the secretariat but my escort somehow stopped them. But before we came to this bridge (Kawo), they became more desperate and there was a small market in the area where the device exploded.
”But God protected us and here I am again,’’ he said.
The President, who also inaugurated the newly remodelled Murtala Mohammed Square, 136-bed Infectious Disease Hospital, LEA Lokoja Road Primary School, Rigasa, Aliyu Makama road and the Leventis underpass, executed by the State government, praised Governor Nasir El-Rufai for completing people-oriented projects in Kaduna metropolis as well as in other senatorial zones in the State .
At the Murtala Square, the new city centre of Kaduna State, President Buhari while admiring the remodelled edifice, recalled that he was constrained by family challenges to relocate from Daura to Kaduna after he was released from detention as a former military Head of State.
”I can hardly find my way in Kaduna due to the development taking place here and the governor has committed himself to change Kaduna for good and has been very successful at that, and Nigerians are appreciative that you are writing your history in letters of gold, ” he said.
In the metropolis, the President also commissioned the Barbedos fertilizer plant, a private sector investment in the State.
Speaking at the LEA Lokoja Primary School, the Governor said the project has now been renamed ‘‘Buhari mega-primary school.”
He noted that the people of Rigasa have been consistent in giving President Buhari 98 percent of their votes in previous presidential elections.
”They are the most committed Buharists in the country,” he said.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 20, 2022
SERAP sues Lawan, Gbajabiamila ‘over failure to probe missing N4.1bn NASS funds’
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against the Senate President, Dr Ahmad Lawan and Speaker of House of Representatives, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila over “their failure to probe, and to refer to appropriate anti-corruption agencies fresh allegations that N4.1bn of public money budgeted for the National Assembly is missing, misappropriated or stolen.”
The suit followed the publication of the annual audited report for 2016 in which the Auditor-General of the Federation raised “concerns about alleged diversion and misappropriation of public funds and sought the recovery of any missing funds.”
In the suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1609/2021 filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja, SERAP is seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel Dr Lawan and Mr Gbajabiamila to perform their constitutional oversight functions to promptly probe the allegations that fresh N4.1bn budgeted for the National Assembly may be missing.”
In the suit, SERAP is arguing that “the National Assembly has legal and constitutional duties to prevent and combat corruption, as well as promote transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.”
According to SERAP: “The National Assembly can only effectively perform its anti-corruption role if it can demonstrate exemplary leadership to probe the allegations of corruption and mismanagement involving the legislative body.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “transparency and accountability in the management of public resources and wealth is essential for promoting development, people’s welfare and well-being, and their access to basic public services, as well as good governance and the rule of law.”
SERAP is arguing that, “The failure of the National Assembly to promptly and thoroughly investigate, and to refer to appropriate anti-corruption agencies the allegations documented in the annual audited report for 2016 is a fundamental breach of the oversight and public interest duties imposed on the legislative body.”
According to SERAP, “The National Assembly has no legally justifiable reason to refuse to investigate the allegations documented by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation.”
The suit filed on behalf of SERAP by its lawyers Kolawole Oluwadare and Kehinde Oyewumi, read in part: “Granting this application would serve the interest of justice, reduce corruption and mismanagement, as well as end impunity of perpetrators, and advance the fundamental human rights of Nigerians.”
“This suit seeks to vindicate the rule of law, the public interest, and to promote transparency and accountability. Government agencies and institutions are responsible to a court of justice for the lawfulness of what they do, and of that the court is the only judge.”
SERAP had last year sent a letter to Dr Lawan and Mr Gbajabiamila requesting them to “use their good offices to urgently probe and refer to appropriate anti-corruption agencies allegations that fresh allegations of missing N4.1bn of public money.”
The letter, read in part: “these fresh allegations are not part of the disclosure by the Auditor-General in the audited reports for 2015, 2017 and 2018 that N4.4 billion of National Assembly money is missing, misappropriated or stolen.”
“According to the Auditor-General report for 2016, N4,144,706,602.68 of National Assembly money is missing, diverted or stolen. The National Assembly paid some contractors N417,312,538.79 without any documents. The Auditor-General wants the Clerk to the National Assembly to ‘recover the amount in question from the contractors.’”
“The National Assembly reportedly spent N625,000,000.00 through its Constitution Review Committee between March and June 2016 but without any document. The Auditor-General wants the Clerk to the National Assembly to ‘recover the amount from the Committee.’”
“The National Assembly also reportedly spent N66,713,355.08 as ‘personnel cost’ but ‘the payees in the Cashbook did not correspond with those in the Bank Statement’. The Auditor-General wants ‘the irregular expenditure recovered from the officer who approved the payments.’”
“The National Assembly also reportedly paid N116,162,522.60 to some contractors between April and June, 2016 without any document. The National Assembly deducted N56,985,568.55 from various contract payments in respect of Withholding Tax and Value Added Tax but without any evidence of remittance.”
“The National Assembly also reportedly paid N126,264,320.00 as cash advances to 11 staff members between March and December, 2016 to procure goods and services but failed to remit the money.”
“The Senate reportedly paid N747,286,680.00 as personal advances to staff members between February and December, 2016 for various procurements and services but failed to retire the money. The Senate also deducted N118,625,057.48 as Withholding and Value Added Taxes but failed to show any evidence of remittance to the Federal Inland Revenue Service.”
“The Senate also spent N109,007,179.73 from the Capital Expenditure vote but without any document.”
“The House of Representatives reportedly deducted N821,564,296.48 from staff salaries but failed to remit the money to tax authorities. The House also paid N254,059,513.70 as advances to staff members to procure goods and services between January and December, 2016 but failed to retire the money.”
“The National Institute for Legislative Studies reportedly spent N375,867,000.00 to buy 11 motor vehicles in April 2016. But the Institute also paid the same contractor N36,610,000.00 in September 2016 under the same contract without approval.”
“The Institute also reportedly paid N10,927,768.80 to 7 members of staff who were redeployed from the National Assembly to provide specialized services but without details about the staff paid, and without any justification.”
“The National Assembly Service Commission reportedly approved N109,995,400.00 to train some officers in Dubai, United Arab Emirates but spent N127,629,600.00 as Estacode Allowances to participants, and fees for two consultants engaged for the training. The Commission also spent N9,975,000.00 as course fees for 34 officers but it also paid a consultant N4,987,500.00 for the same course fees.”
“The Legislative Aides Section earned N12,274,587.77 as interests on Bank accounts in a commercial bank between January and December 2016 but failed to remit the money to the Consolidated Revenue Fund.”
No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
9/1/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
Jimoh Ibrahim Dissociates Self From Fake Cryptocurrency Link
Billionaire Business mogul and owner of Fortune University has debunked a fake Facebook account opened by some unscrupulous persons in his name to defraud Nigerians.
In a statement personally signed by Barr. Ibrahim, while dissociating himself from the Facebook page, he said he is equally surprised like many of his associates , followers and fans that such Facebook page exists.
The page advertised a phony link which projected an investment profile with a fake note credited to Jimoh Ibrahim written thus: ” I am sharing this because I ‘ve also received hundreds of emails from people thanking me for sharing this secret. ” The scam link is ‘https://fingering. xyz/Jimoh Ibrahim_23.122021′
Barrister Jimoh Ibrahim whose chains of business cut across oil and gas, hospitality , Insurance and many more, said emphatically that the face book page doesn’t belong to him, stressing that some smart Alecs went to hoist the page on the social media with the hope of using his name and face to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.
The Araba of Ikale land advised the scammers to desist from using his name in their shady social media deals warning that the long arms of the law will catch up with them in no time.
He appealed to the public not be brow beaten by whatever mouth watering investment package on the fake Facebook page as it doesn’t have anything to do with him as a person on his chains of businesses both in Nigeria and overseas.
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH URHOBO KINGDOM OVER PASSING OF CHIEF PATRICK EMURODE SITO IDEH
President Muhammadu Buhari commiserates with family of Hon. (Chief) Patrick Emurode Sito Ideh, the Okpako-Orere of Otughievwen and Ushota of Ughievwen Kingdom, and all sons and daughters of Urhobo Kingdom, over passing of the royal father.
President Buhari sends condolences to Government and people of Delta State, professional and business associates of the departed, urging more trust in God, and appreciation for the long life of the elder statesman and former lawmaker, who served as member of the House of Representatives, 1979-1983.
As father to Urhobo ethnic nationality, the President affirms that the legal icon and businessman worked selflessly for the unity and progress of his domain, leaving landmark testimonies of speaking for the voiceless, supporting the underprivileged and, most significantly, ensuring presence of sons and daughters in national discourse.
President Buhari prays for a peaceful rest for the departed, and God’s comfort for his family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 8, 2022
BLACK SOOT: WIKE TASKS RIVERS CP, OTHERS TO ARREST, PROSECUTE ARTISANAL REFINERS.
Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has charged the Rivers State Commissioner of Police to collaborate with the other Security Agencies, Council Chairmen and Traditional Rulers to fish out all those involved in illegal bunkering and artisanal refining for prosecution.
The governor accused persons engaged in illegal bunkering and artisanal refining for the black soot environmental menace that is endangering the health of residents of the State.
He gave the charge at the Nigeria Police, Rivers State Command dinner and award night that held at the Police Officers Mess, Old Government Residential Area, Port Harcourt on Friday.
The governor, who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Port Harcourt, Chief Emeka Woke, declared that the State government has resolved to tackle those involved in crude oil theft and refining once and for all.
Governor Wike stated that the state government is willing to provide the police and other security agencies all that is required to dislodge and end the activities of artisanal refiners in Rivers State.
According to the governor, “the State is prepared to fight them more than ever before.”
Governor Wike, narrated that since the Commissioner of Police, Friday Eboka assumed duty last year, Rivers State has witnessed peace and improved policing.
“Little wonder the crime index in the state has reduced drastically. We thought we are the only people witnessing it, but with the award you got from the wife of the Inspector General of Police, it is an eloquent testimony that what we are seeing as a State, is also being observed from all the nation.”
The governor said policing in Rivers State has improved remarkably because the management of the Nigeria Police Force at the Force Headquarters and the State Command respectively distanced themselves from politics.
“As a state, we will continue to support the security agencies in the State. Our support for security agencies is not only centered on Police force. We are also extending similar gesture to the Navy, Air force and others.
“For us, we believe the primary function of any responsible government is to protect life and property. So, we have no option than to continue to support in providing logistics and everything that can make the security agencies in the State to function very well.
“Because we believe that if our people are safe and the life here is peaceful, there will be increase in economics activities and the Internally Generated Revenue will also go up.”
Governor Wike commended Mr Eboka, who is the 42nd Commissioner of Police in Rivers State for discharging his duty professionally and not joining the league of some of his predecessors, who were posted to the State to cause turmoil and instability.
The governor announced N1 million reward for each of the recipients of the Rivers State Police Command award and N10 Million to the Command for organising the event.
The Commissioner of Police, Friday Eboka explained that 2021 was a remarkable year for the Command because Rivers State emerged as one of the most peaceful state in Nigeria.
He thanked Almighty God for his grace and Inspector General of Police for choosing Rivers State as the venue for the launching of South-South Operation Restore Peace.
According to him, this came with the deployment of special forces with sophisticated equipment as well as combat helicopter to the state.
He commended Governor Wike for being very phenomenal in the attainment of peace and security in the State.
“Since my assumption of office, the command has received more than 50 patrol vehicles fitted with modern gadgets from the State government. This gesture alone enhanced visibility policing in the State.
“Recall too, when we lost men to miscreants in sometimes April 2021, the governor did not allow us to suffer alone. He wiped the tears of the deceased families with a total sum N220 million, which means each family received the sum of N20million.
“Recall the ENDSARS saga. At the end of that saga, which led to the burning down of police stations and vehicles across the nation, the State governor did not abandon us to work under the trees. But rather, the governor constructed a storey building each for the Area Command, Oyigbo and the Divisional Police in Oyigbo.”
Highlight of the event was the conferment of Governor Wike with an award for fighting crime in the State.
The founder and General Overseer, Omega Power Ministry, Apostle Dr. Chibuzor Gift Chinyere, was honoured for his unrelenting assistance to the State Police Command
The recipients of the Rivers State Police Command 2021 awards are: G.I.A Godstime Nwuju, best traffic officer; Inspector Winfrey Ini Akpan, best controller; CSP Bako Aghashim, best D.P.O; CSP Grace Wonwu, best female DPO; and the best visiting tactical team leader went to CSP Adamu.
Kelvin Ebiri
Special Assistant Media to the Rivers State Governor.
January 8, 2022.
GOVERNMENT SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
RIWAMA Sole Administrator, Bro. Felix Obuah Meets With All Service Providers Working With The Agency
The Sole administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA), Bro. Felix Obuah has called for an important meeting of all Service Providers working with the agency.
The crucial and mandatory meeting is scheduled to hold as follows:
DATE: Monday, January 10, 2022
TIME: 2pm on the dot
VENUE: Conference Hall, Rivers State Waste Management Agency, Port Harcourt.
The crucial meeting which is part of efforts to improve on the cleanliness of Rivers State, is mandatory for all Service Providers working with the Agency and all Special Assistants, SAs, to the Sole Administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency, RIWAMA.
The Sole Administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency, Bro Felix Obuah therefore enjoined all Service Providers working with the agency and all Special Assistants, SAs, to the Sole Administrator, RIWAMA to ensure they are in attendance, as the agency will not take it kindly with those who fail to attend.
THIS IS SIGNED BY:
Jerry Needam
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Sole Administrator,
Rivers State Waste Management Agency, RIWAMA
Bro. Felix Obuah.
Saturday, January 8, 2022.
SPN CONDEMNS BRUTAL STATE REPRESSION OF MASS PROTEST IN KAZAKHSTAN
WE DEMAND AN END TO ATTACKS ON DEMOCRATIC RIGHTS
Socialist Party of Nigeria (SPN) condemns the brutal repression of the legitimate mass protest of the people who are tired of massive corruption and capitalist misrule by the former government and the current government.
SPN hails the heroic mass protest of the working masses that challenged hike in fuel price on January 1, 2022 by Kassym-Jomart Tokayev-led government and other anti-people policies. Despite the brutalization, shooting and killing of innocent protesters, the working masses have stood their ground.
We demand an immediate end to the ongoing attacks on democratic rights and repression of peoples’ will. We demand the withdrawal of Russian troops from Kazakhstan. The vast majority have spoken and rejected this self-serving government and it is high time the government resigned and allow for a democratic election under the control of the working class.
We call on the working masses to form defence Committees that mobilize across ethnic lines, religions, nationalities as a basis for defending the movement and also uniting the people.
We also appeal to all working class organisations and trade unions internationally including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to give active solidarity to the struggling masses of Kazakhstan.
SIGNED
Abiodun Bamigboye Chinedu Bosah
Acting National Chairperson National Secretary
Trial of Corrupt officials: Niger Delta Youths back Buhari, laud Akpabio
Youth leaders in the Niger Delta on Sunday applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for vowing to rid the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) of the moral and political rot that has plagued it for so long.
‘’We are continually inspired by Buhari’s dedication and vision to addressing development issues in the Niger Delta region’’
At a meeting in Warri, the youth leaders praised Buhari for his decision on the concluded forensic audit of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
‘’We appreciate every sincere effort made to achieve development in the Niger Delta region’’
They commended Buhari for ordering the release of outstanding NDDC funds and trial of corrupt officials, noting that this creates the momentum which can accelerate progress in the region.
‘’The President’s directive on the completion of all viable projects, which have been abandoned by the NDDC, is a welcome development”.
Chairman of the Niger Delta Progressives Movement (NDPM), Mr. Julius Ita, told a news conference after the gathering in Warri that there was political will and good faith to guarantee the development of the region.
The youth leaders applauded Buhari for steps so far taken to prevent corruption in NDDC.
Specifically, the youths commended Senator Godswill Akpabio for breathing life into the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, revitalizing the region, instilling a renewed sense of faith and hope and creating a wonderful legacy for Niger Delta’s future.
‘’Chief Godswill Akpabio represents an extraordinary example of the spirit we honour in the region’’
The youths emphasized Akpabio’s depth of commitment and leadership in the country, integrity and honest work.
The youth leaders described the remarks of the National Chairman of Niger Delta People’s Forum (NDPF), Chief Boma Ebiakpo as “negative and divisive”.
‘’It won’t distract or deter the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio from his focus on developing the Niger Delta region’’ said the youth leaders.
The youth leaders said they expected Ebiakpo and his sponsors to cherish Akpabio’s contribution, wisdom and energy to the realization of the Niger Delta dream.
‘’An NDDC Board in the First Half-Year Period will be a distraction’’ the youth leaders pointed out.
PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI COMMISSIONS ORIENTAL ENERGY RESOURCES LTD.’S STATE-OF-THE-ART AIRCRAFT HANGER AND ANCILARY EXECUTIVE FACILITIES AT MAIDUGURI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.
…as Oriental Energy Resources Chairman, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, OFR, extols Julius Berger’s Engineering construction quality.
Oriental Energy Resources Limited founded by renowned industrialist, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, OFR, scored a high mark on its infrastructural contribution to the country’s development last Thursday when President Muhammadu Buhari commissioned the company’s new ultra-modern aircraft Hangar at the Maiduguri international airport in Borno State. The works also included the cast of an apron slab and a new taxiway constructed to connect the Hangar to the main runway of the Maiduguri International Airport
The Hangar materials, including beams, columns, and metal sheets, amongst other technical components were procured by Oriental Energy Resources Limited, while its precision integration and construction was awarded to the nation’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
In less than one year of commencement of the works, the ever-reliable Julius Berger has built the Hangar, which houses not only Aircraft but also offices and welfare spaces for the Client, its employees, pilots and executive guests. Ancillary facilities at the new state-of-the-art Hangar include two modern guesthouses designed and built to Julius Berger’s ISO certification quality standard. The respected industrialist, Alhaji Indimi commended Julius Berger for the excellent quality of works Julius Berger delivered for Oriental Energy Resources at the Maiduguri International Airport.
Other important dignitaries who accompanied President Muhammadu Buhari to the ceremony included the Executive Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagan Zulum, the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Borno State Ali Modu-Sheriff, amongst others. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Irabor personally actively led the security and military contingent to the successful ceremony in Maiduguri.
Representing the Managing Director Engr. Dr Lars Richter and leading Julius Berger’s delegation to the commissioning ceremony in Maiduguri was the company’s Executive Director of Administration, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi. Engr. Goni Musa Sheikh, Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc was also at the ceremony.
Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq, most gender friendly governor in Nigeria – Media Professionals
Media professionals in Nigeria on Sunday commended the Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq for inspiring the girl child, reducing inequalities and giving women in the state a fair space in the decision-making process.
They also applauded the governor for making accountability his watchword.
Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq recently signed into law a bill that makes it mandatory to have at least 35 per cent women appointees in the State Executive Council and other classes of political appointments.
In a statement in Lagos, the professionals advised other governors in the country to learn from the governor of Kwara State.
The professionals congratulated Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq for the credible efforts to justify the mandate given to him by the good people of Kwara State as represented in his gender policy, institutional setup and the many physical improvements that are visible in all the local government areas.
The statement signed by the Chairman of the Nigerian Media Professionals Group, Mr Daniel Okeme applauded Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq for promoting women in leadership roles in the state, gingering the public service, encouraging a private sector driven economy, eliminating wasteful spending, and ensuring strict adherence to budget provision.
They praised the governor for opening up rural areas through the construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of roads.
The statement underscored electricity, infrastructure, human resources development, skill acquisition, healthcare and education.
The professionals listed a sound economic base, gender empowerment, wealth creation and poverty reduction as key areas where the governor performed creditably.
Specifically, the professionals applauded the governor for providing drinking water and electricity to rural areas, boosting agriculture and ensuring that peace and security prevail.
The statement also emphasised the good working relationship between the executive and the legislature, encouragement of foreign investments, women’s rights and gender equality.