President Muhammadu Buhari condoles with family of former Minister of National Planning, Chief Ayodele Ogunlade, urging friends and close associates to find solace in the courage that the elder statesman brought to life.

President Buhari affirms that Ogunlade’s rise from a primary and secondary school teacher, Senior Producer in Western Nigeria Television and Broadcasting Services, Permanent Secretary, Minister of Information and Culture, and foremost industrialist typifies resilience that should be celebrated and emulated.

The President notes the warm heartedness, positive outlook and broad vision of the former minister, who shared his success skills with many, and extended his wisdom to both private and public institutions, leaving lasting imprint on Nigeria’s development over many years.

As the former journalist, public servant and industrialist begins his final journey, President Buhari believes his investments of love and goodwill will continue to inspire and modify lives, particularly the overwhelming influence in community development, through educational and health schemes.

The President prays that God will comfort Ogunlade’s family and grant him eternal rest.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

September 28, 2022

PRESS STATEMENT

GOV AKEREDOLU RESOLVE IS TO SPARE NO EFFORT IN PROTECTING THE PEOPLE

The reasons adduced by Garba Shehu in his Press statement for the continued refusal to approve of the use of sophisticated weapons by state security outfits can no longer be plausible in the face of increasing security challenges being faced by the people.

The assertion of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity on the use of automatic weapons by State Security outfits betrays the current realities across the country. His attempt to justify the use of AK47 by the Vigilantes of Katsina State for training stands logic on it head.

The report by the TVC News that went viral showed the Kastina State Vigilantee training with AK47. This is the same weapon which approval has vehemently been refused for the use of Amotekun Corps and other State Security Outfits.

The questions Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, asks are:

Where did the guns come from?
Who approved their use?

iii. Were the guns returned to the armoury after use?

The AK47, as seen from the TVC news report, was about usage. If not, what purpose does training with the guns serve?

It is rather suspicious that Garba Shehu elected himself as the spokesperson for the Kastina State government. Whereas, the Katsina State has not come out openly to deny the statement of Governor Akeredolu on the use of AK47 by

Vigilantes of Katsina State during training.

Governor Akeredolu has reiterated that State Security outfits backed by law whether in the Western Nigeria, Katsina, Borno, Benue or any Northern State must have access to the same sophisticated weapons that the criminals have. It time to face down these enemies of the people.

It is illogical to continue to fight hardened marauders who bear sophisticated weaponry to kidnap and maim our people with bare hands. We cannot fight armed enemies of the people with our bare hands.

It is our firm belief that the government has a fundamental duty to protect the people. It is a task that must be accomplished without excuse.

Governor Akeredolu is determined to spare no efforts in protecting the people. He has vowed to explore every available legal and constitutional means to secure the state and its people.

The Southern Nigeria Governors Forum has called for the establishment of State Police. The 19 Northern State Governors and Northern Traditional Rulers Council have also supported the call for State Police.

The call by the sub-national should be heeded and change effected where necessary.

Every Governor sworn to an oath to protect the state and the people. The sub-national must be allowed to put in place security forces as a counter-balancing force to face these marauders who have unchecked access to sophisticated weapons.

It is high time we tackled these conflict entrepreneurs and restore the confidence of the people. We can not do the same thing time and again and expect different result.

Governor Akeredolu is irrevocably committed to the security of the people, particularly his state. He will continue to speak up in defense of the people. He is very much committed to the realization of constitutional amendment to reflect the current realities.

Signed:

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

September 28, 2022.

Communities in Niger Delta live in depressing conditions—SERAP

A new report by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has revealed how “communities in the Niger Delta continue to live in depressing and deplorable conditions, despite the fact that the wealth derived from these areas is the main economic mainstay for the country.”

According to the report, “The communities in the Niger Delta remain the poorest in the country.”

The 82 pages report launched today at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, is titled: ‘We Are All Vulnerable Here’: How Lack of Transparency and Accountability is Fuelling Human Rights Violations in the Niger Delta.

The report presented to the media by Dr. Olubunmi Afinowi, Faculty of Law of the University of Lagos, discloses that “The region remains deeply in the grips of squalor, poverty, and environmental degradation.”

The report shows that, “Corruption contributes to poverty and consequential suffering of many people in the Niger Delta. The right of the people to a clean, safe and healthy environment is routinely violated and abused by the government and oil companies.”

According to the report, “Extensive social, economic, and environmental degeneration has largely affected the lifestyles and wellbeing of the people of the Niger Delta. Also apparent is the continued disregard and abuse of the human rights of the people of the region.”

Femi Falana, SAN said at the report launch, “The management of the Niger Delta Development Commission by interim administrators is illegal. The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami SAN should advise President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently reconstitute the NDDC board of directors.”

Falana said, “Since the appointment of interim administrators is unknown to the NDDC Act, all contracts awarded by them are illegal and liable to be set aside.”

Falana also called on “the Federal Government to release the report of the Forensic auditing of the NDDC to enable the oil producing communities to demand accountability from many contractors who collected huge funds and abandoned development projects in the Niger Delta region.”

Among the people who attended the report launch are: Speaker of Cross Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon John Etim; the Chairman of the ICPC, represented by Dr Grace Chinda; and the Executive Secretary of NEITI, represented by Kareem Lamidi, team lead advocacy for NEITI.

The report launch was also attended by Dina Sabi, Second Secretary of the Embassy of the Netherlands in Nigeria; the Director-General, Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), represented by Mr. Egbe Ekpe; and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, represented by Barrister Raji Rasaki.

Others are: High Chief Eric Barisa; Madam Florence Kayemba, Stakeholder Democracy Network; the Executive Secretary, NHRC, represented by Mr. Saliu Musa; representatives of communities from the Niger Delta; and the members of the media.

All the participants expressed commitment to ensure the full implementation of the recommendations contained in the report.

The research for the report was conducted under the Niger Delta project supported by the Ford Foundation.

The report, read in part: “While the oil and gas upstream operations span the entire Niger Delta region, the empirical study in this research focuses on the Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers states.”

“The doctrinal study, on the other hand, is more encompassing and examines the challenges and adverse impacts of the oil and gas industries in the host communities and the government’s response mechanisms through the various regulatory and institutional frameworks.”

“The relevant monitoring agencies have not effectively carried out their duties and functions and this has led to a continued disregard for the rights of the people and the need to protect the environment.”

“Corruption is a major factor in the continued degradation in the region. There is a lack of an effective governance and feedback framework to foster interactions between regulators, companies, and communities. This implies a lack of transparency and accountability from the companies and the government to the people.”

“The oil and gas companies receive minimal government monitoring in the conduct of their activities; more troubling is the prevalence of oil theft and illegal mining, and refining of crude oil. Such illegal activities make the region crime prone and increase the vulnerability of the inhabitants of the communities.”

“The communities are continually exposed to food insecurity and health risks. Most of their communal lands, land and water resources have been lost or continually threatened by degradation and pollution.”

“A lot of information about the oil and gas companies, their activities, environmental audits and other relevant information are not available to the public. Such information is often shrouded in secrecy, and where made available, is limited, unclear and provides little or no actual information.”

“Marginalization of women, the aged, the youths and other vulnerable members of the communities, such as persons with disabilities is rife. This marginalization also has far-reaching implications for the protection of the socio-economic rights of the inhabitants of the communities.”

“President Muhammadu Buhari should publicly recognize and re-affirm that every Nigerian citizen, including oil producing communities, is entitled to economic and social rights, and take steps to ensure constitutional recognition of these rights as legally enforceable human rights.”

“President Muhammadu Buhari should immediately instruct the Ministry of Niger Delta Humanitarian Affairs and other government agencies overseeing the NDDC to immediately publish the forensic report on NDDC conducted in 2021.”

“The leadership of the National Assembly should ensure that the relevant committees collaborate to initiate independent public enquiries and fact-finding on how public funds have been spent by MDAs to mitigate the socio-economic impact of environmental pollution in oil producing communities.”

“The leadership of the National Assembly should make public the findings of any such investigations by the relevant parliamentary committees on the use of public funds by MDAs to mitigate the socio-economic impact of environmental pollution in oil producing communities.”

“The leadership of the National Assembly should make public all reports of previous investigations into allegations of corruption in relevant MDAs concerned with the management of issues relating to the impact of environmental pollution in oil producing communities and send such reports to anti-corruption agencies.”

Kolawole Oluwadare

SERAP Deputy Director

28/9/2022

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

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES MBS ON HIS APPOINTMENT AS SAUDI PM, PRAYS FOR KING SALMAN’S HEALTH

President Muhammadu Buhari Wednesday extended his congratulations to Prince Mohammed Bin Salman (MBS), the newly appointed Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

A letter personally signed by the President welcomed the appointment which is combined with the position of Defence Minister, the first ever in the history of the Kingdom.

President Buhari said the government and the people of Nigeria looked forward to working with him to further deepen and expand excellent bilateral relations.

The President expressed confidence that with the dynamic and visionary leadership of the government by the Prime Minister under the guidance of his father, ruler of the Kingdom and Custodian of the two Holy Mosques, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz, the comprehensive strategic partnership of our two states will continue to blossom.

In wishing Prime Minister Muhammad a successful tenure in office, President Buhari prayed to Allah to increase the health and wisdom of King Salman.

Garba Shehu

Senior Special Assistant to the President

(Media & Publicity)

September 28, 2022

PRESS RELEASE

LAGOS’ TRANSFORMATION JOURNEY WILL NOT BE COMPLETE WITHOUT WOMEN – SANWO-OLU

Governor celebrates women, promises more economic opportunities

An account of Lagos State’s journey to a cosmopolitan society would not be fully told without chronicling the contributions made by women to the cultural growth and socio-economic transformation of the State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said on Tuesday.

Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the roles played by women in the transformation of Lagos at a forum tagged “WAPA Connect”, organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation at Lagos Continental Hotel with the theme: “The Emerging Total Woman”.

Lagos, the Governor said, presents a unique social structure distinct from other parts, given the unique influence of women in positions of authority. Their impacts, Sanwo-Olu said, have elevated the status of the State to a society where women take full pride.

The forum brought women achievers in the public and private sectors together for networking and to share experiences on contemporary issues critical to enable women achieve their full potential.

Sanwo-Olu said the event’s theme was to address the changing dynamics driven by the new thinking of the 21st century, as well as preparing women for contemporary challenges they needed to overcome.

The Governor said the conference was initiated in pursuance of his administration’s avowed commitment to the policy of inclusiveness and emancipation of women.

He said: “Under the current democratic dispensation, we have seen how women have distinguished themselves with enviable records in public service; as heads of public agencies, Permanent Secretaries, Judges and Commissioners. They have given Lagos its unique status and played vital roles in transforming the State into a cosmopolitan society. Without women, the story of Lagos greatness cannot be told. This is a testimony that there is something we are getting right by putting women in the positions of authority.

“There is no gainsaying that empowered women have achieved different levels of success against all odds in various areas of endeavours. The real issue that must be of serious concern to us is, how do we support, inspire and encourage young emerging women to arrive at their destination against all odds? It is important that we accept this responsibility to guarantee a better future in a socio-economic ecosystem that is increasingly becoming more competitive.”

Sanwo-Olu said Lagos had been pulling down barriers of inequality against the women, initiating policies to make the State become a society where women needed no permission before taking their rightful positions as progress partners.

The State Government, he said, had demonstrated its commitment in the appointment of women as key drivers of public policies and programmes.

The Governor disclosed that women make up 65 percent of Permanent Secretaries in the civil service, 60 percent of judges appointed and 50 per cent of public agencies’ heads.

He said: “Our administration has done so much to create opportunities for women, while also promoting gender equality through the initiatives and programmes being implemented by relevant government agencies, particularly the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. I assure you that we will not rest on our oars, as there is still much to be done to support our women in many areas.”

Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Dada, said women’s roles in shaping the society across social, economic and political levels were vital, noting that empowerment of women remained pertinent for the achievement of United Nations’ 2030 agenda on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

She said millions of women across the country had endured lives of abject poverty, because of the economic inequality and lack of requisite skills to survive in a modernised economy.

Giving women improved access to knowledge and training, the Commissioner said the impacts would be significant in the society in terms of economic growth and social development.

“It is an established fact that the economic activities by women often times constitute the backbone of the economy. This conference is aimed at offering the practicable template for strategic thinking towards gearing up our women to evaluate their rights to economic resources, and expand their access to sexual and reproductive well-being, and become viable tools for socio- economic growth of Lagos.”

First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said the prevailing economic situation posed serious challenges to many women. She called for more socio-economic opportunities for women.

She said: “Bringing more women out of the prevailing socio-economic situations will give them more freedom to improve their livelihoods and contribute their quota towards growth of our State. This would place Lagos on equal pedestal with societies where women flourish.”

The conference featured a panel of discussions on topical issues critical to solving challenges women are facing in contemporary time.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

27 SEPTEMBER 2022

APC will win 2023 presidential poll convincingly – Ndoma-Egba

Former Senate Leader and ex-Chairman of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Distinguished Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, SAN, has said that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) will cruise to a convincing win over his opponents in the 2023 presidential election.

Ndoma-Egba, an influential politician who represented the people of Cross River Central Senatorial District between 2003 and 2015 in the Red Chamber, gave the assurance while reacting to the recently released list of members for the APC Presidential Campaign Council.

The erstwhile parliamentarian made the list as the Secretary of the Directorate for Campaign Planning.

The legal luminary who was the secretary of the National Convention Planning Committee that produced Adams Oshiomhole as APC national chairman in 2018, observed that the party’s presidential campaign council is made up of experienced and notable Nigerians with electoral value.

His words: “I feel honoured and gratified that I’m invited once again to serve and play a prominent role in the APC to which I belong. I’m a faithful and committed member of the APC. So, I’m totally pleased. Looking at the presidential campaign council, I think it is very well constituted, populated by very experienced people with extensive networks and electoral value. That is what we need at this point that campaigns are about starting. The campaign council is made up of tested and proven men and women that will add value to the campaigns and give mileage to our presidential candidate Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who on his own has the credentials and the qualities to also take the campaigns forward. I believe that the APC will win the 2023 presidential election clean and clear.”

Speaking on the need for eligible Nigerians to participate in the electoral process, Ndoma-Egba said: “I will advise the public to own the process because choosing your leader is a sacred duty. And if you are indifferent then you will be foisted with people that you have no say in how they emerge but you will still yield to them in any way because they would have been vested with the constitutional authority over your affairs. So let every member of the public of voting age come out and take part in the process that will lead to a new leadership come 2023. It’s a sacred duty. It’s a civic duty. And it’s also a constitutional duty for all of us to participate in the process.”

On ensuring issue-based campaigns, he remarked: “There are too many issues dominating our social space today. So, there is really no need for us to get petty. We should debate the issues. There are too many issues staring us in the face. Is Nigeria where it ought to be? Which turns did we miss? Where are we headed? Can we build an elite consensus, an elite national consensus on the Nigeria of our dreams? And how do we attain or achieve the Nigeria of our dreams? What kind of Nigerians do we want to be? I mean, there are very urgent conversations that we should begin to have if this country must move forward. Yes, like I said we have missed some turns in the past. We are not where we should be. But we can catch up. And then with lesson from the Gulf region that have made such tremendous milestones in the last few years. And even from Southeast Asia, countries like Vietnam that were at war for how many decades, Thailand, Cambodia and suddenly exploding and emerging economic power houses. It is comforting in many ways that within such a short time these countries in spite of their challenges are where they are. With the will we can also achieve same.”

PRESIDENT BUHARI INAUGURATES, SETS AGENDA FOR NATIONAL COUNCIL ON CLIMATE CHANGE

President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday in Abuja charged the National Council on Climate Change to formulate appropriate policies toward achieving green growth and sustainable economic development for Nigeria.

Inaugurating the Council before the commencement of the Federal Executive Council meeting, the President said it marked the commencement of the implementation of the Climate Change Act 2021 and a new chapter in the renewed response to climate change in the country.

The President also directed the Attorney General and Minister of Justice in conjunction with the Minister of Environment to initiate appropriate amendments of ”noticeable implementation challenges” inherent in the Act.

Highlighting the losses and damages caused by the recent increasing floods in several parts of the country as well in Pakistan, Bangladesh and other parts of East and Southern Africa, the President described climate change as one of the biggest challenges facing humanity.

”It [Climate Change] is complex and dynamic; and requires multidimensional and multi-sectoral initiatives to address its impacts and avert its rapid advance.

”Updated data show increases in sea level rise, heat waves, wild fires, floods, desertification, drying wetlands and many more disruptive climate occurrences.

”The latest Intergovernmental Panel on climate change report warns that rising Green House Gas emissions could soon outstrip the ability of communities to adapt, and the window for taking decisive steps needed to spare our planet from the gravest impacts of climate change is rapidly narrowing.

”We cannot ignore what is happening in our local environment. The increasing re-occurrence of floods in several parts of the country is a wakeup call,” he said, lamenting the loss of lives, damage and destruction of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, schools and agricultural production.

President Buhari, therefore, reiterated the determination of his Administration to strengthen national response to climate change and accelerate the implementation of decisive actions to reduce its impacts on the people and economy.

He reaffirmed that Nigeria is a party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which is an established international treaty to combat “dangerous human interference with the climate system”, in part by stabilizing Green House Gas concentrations in the atmosphere.

”It is against this background that in November 2021, after COP 26 in Glasgow, I signed the Nigeria Climate Change Act despite noticeable implementation challenges inherent in the Act, to set the framework for mainstreaming climate change action, carbon budgeting and the establishment of the National Council on Climate Change.

”The council is tasked with the responsibility of formulating appropriate policies and other mechanisms for achieving low Green House Gas emissions, including green growth and sustainable economic development for Nigeria.

”In a clear demonstration of our commitments as enshrined in our Nationally Determined Contributions and the Net Zero-Target by 2060, I also approved, on 25th July 2022, the appointment of the Director General and Secretary for the National Council on Climate Change.

”It is imperative therefore that those lapses earlier alluded to – which includes the establishment of states and Zonal offices creating a huge and costly bureaucracy is not acceptable. The Act also takes out the Commissioners of Environments from the states as members of Council, it also did not make transitional provisions capturing the work of the Inter-ministerial Working Group.

”This group was responsible for Energy Transition, the supervisory oversight of the Ministry of Environment and the establishment of an Executive Management structure at the secretariat level to support the DG in running the Council Secretariat.

”Accordingly, I hereby direct the Attorney General and Minister of Justice in conjunction with the Minister of Environment to initiate the appropriate amendment to reflect these observations.”

Ahead of COP27 in Sharm El Shiekh, Egypt, the President expressed optimism that the National Council on Climate Change would harmonise all issues relating to Climate Change, Energy Transition Plan, Emissions Trading Scheme and the Carbon Trading Framework, in line with its mandate under the Act, so that Nigeria can have a robust and impactful outing that captures Nigeria’s Climate Change priorities.

He said the composition of the council is a reflection of the magnitude of the problem and the seriousness of our response, adding that it comprises the highest level of governance and a representation of all key sectors of the economy.’

President Buhari also used the occasion to thank Vice President Yemi Osinbajo for heading Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, presiding over the global launch of the plan and initiating its marketing by engaging key stakeholders in the United States.

He urged the Council to consolidate on these first steps and ensure a sustained marketing of the plan.

Mohammed Abdullahi, the Minister of Environment, thanked the President for ”walking the talk” on climate change at the international, regional and national level, demonstrating immense leadership towards Nigeria’s quest for net-zero by 2060.

The Council is chaired by the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, with the Vice President as Vice Chairman. The Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, is also a member.

Other members of the Council are the Ministers responsible for Environment; Petroleum Resources; Budget and National Planning; Justice; Mines and Steel Development; Finance; Agriculture and Rural Development; Power; Women Affairs; Transportation; and Water Resources.

The Governor of Central Bank; the National Security Adviser; President of Association Local Governments of Nigeria; a representative of the private sector on climate change or environmental related matters (representative of National Conservation Foundation); a representative of National Council on Women Societies; a representative of National Youth Congress, and a representative of the Civil Society Organisation are also members of the Council

The Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change, Dr Salisu Dahiru, will serve as Secretary.

After the inauguration, the Federal Executive Council observed a minute silence in honour of Chief Ayodele Ogunlade, a former Minister of National Planning, under former Head of State, Sani Abacha, who died on Tuesday aged 88.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

September 28, 2022

Labour Party Slams Agho Blessing For Her Bad Vices, Demands retraction

Of Libelous Allegations

EDO State chapter of the Labour Party (LP) has demanded an unreserved

apology from one Ms Agho Blessing who has been running berserk on

social media, spewing venom and acerbic libellous allegation against

the national chairman of our great party, Comrade Barrister Julius

Abure.

The state chairman, Comrade Kelly Ogbaloi descended heavily on Ms Agho

Blessing over her primitive, baseless and scorched earth criticism of

the celebrated national chairman who has helped to nurture the Labour

Party along with other patriotic leaders of the party over the last

three decades without blemish.

“Hon. Elizabeth Ativie won the election for Uhuonwonde/Orhionmwon

Federal Constituency and her name was uploaded into Independent

Electoral Commission’s (INEC) portal in accordance with the electoral

laws, pure and simple”, the state chairman said.

Agho Blessing who is an internet urchin has been ranting on her

Facebook page with less than 4,000 followers over the loose of one of

her numerous man friends, Mr Murphy Imasuen who lost at the Labour

Party rescheduled primary election conducted in Uhuonwonde/Orhionmwon/

Federal Constituency of Edo State, sometimes in July this year.

In one of her incoherent diatribe against Barrister Abure, Blessing

wrote: “The duplicitous national chairman of the party; Julius Abure

has threatened to dissolve the State Executive excos for refusing to

support him.

“Recall, that it was allege that the tolotolo long throat national

chairman collected the sum of N30MILLION from the desperate

dishonorable iyenokhua; Madam Elizabeth Ativie to place her name on

the INEC list.

“Elizabeth Ativie uncloaked her ordeal with Julius Abure, the Labour

Party national chairman who asked her for money, she gave him a bank

draft and boom he removed Murphy Imasuen’s name and changed it to

hers”.

Agho Blessing is said to be engaged in bizarre and violent

preoccupations after many failed marriages on account of her

uncontrolled verbal diarrhoea, disruptive behaviour and unbridled

insolence that has to do with mental instability.

Comrade Ogbaloi called on Ms Agho Blessing to retract her unfounded

allegations against the national chairman that he has been trying to

dissolve the state EXCO of the party as well as the N30m allegation

within seven days or face multiple litigation.

WE’LL CONTINUE TO ENSURE FREEDOM OF SPEECH, ROBUST POLITICAL DISCOURSE, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI

President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Abuja assured that participation of citizens in democracy will continue to be encouraged through freedom of speech and robust political discourse, urging respect for divergent cultures and opinions, and upholding the unity of the country.

Receiving Letters of Credence from Ambassadors and High Commissioners of six countries at the State House, the President told the diplomats that Nigeria’s strength remains in its diversity, and the constant differences in positions further signpost a strong democratic culture.

The Ambassadors and High Commissioners of Republic of India, Mr Gangadharan Balasubramanian, Germany, Mrs Annett Gunther, Sudan, Mr Mohamed Yousif Ibrahim Abdelmannan, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mrs Gerengbo Yakivu Pascaline, State of Palestine, Abdullah M.A. Abu Shawesh and The Kingdom of Netherlands, Mr Willem Wouter Plomp, presented their Letters of Credence to President Buhari.

“As you settle down to your diplomatic responsibilities, you will realise how diverse Nigeria is. We are not only multi-ethnic and religious but also multi-cultural. We enjoy unfettered freedom of speech and engage in robust political discourses. Sometimes, the nature of these discourses, tend to give the impression that we are constantly opposed to each other.

“The reality is that there is so much that bind us together than the few areas of our divergence. I have no doubts in my mind that you will soon appreciate our uniqueness and indeed resilience as a people, as well as our diversity which constitutes our strength,’’ he said.

President Buhari urged the diplomats to build on the existing good relations that their predecessors had achieved by being more proactive in engagements.

“Today’s occasion, during which you have just presented your Letters of Credence to me, officially marks the formal assumption of your representational duties as Ambassadors/High Commissioners of your respective countries to Nigeria.

“You represent some of the most prominent countries on the earth and some of our important trading, political and cultural partners.

“The bilateral relationship that exists between each of your countries and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is warm and very cordial, and the cooperation and collaboration between us in several areas, such as socio-economic, political, security, education and cultural spheres,’’ the President noted.

As the build up to the 2023 general elections continues, President Buhari said: “I am highly optimistic that we will conduct a good transition process at the end of which a new set of political leaders will freely emerge.’’

“You are assuming your diplomatic responsibilities in Nigeria, at very interesting political period as Nigeria’s national elections are due in February 2023. I want to state again, as I did just a few days ago at the UN General Assembly, that we remain committed to free and fair elections,’’ he added.

The President called for more collectiveness in tackling some of the challenges faced by nations, noting that the climatic, economic and security concerns can only be solved through shared vision, skills and efforts.

“We are living in unprecedented global challenging time. Early in 2020, much of the world was forced to shut down on account of COVID-19. The catastrophic impact of the pandemic has been across our nations not just in terms of tragic loss of millions of lives, but also massive loss of livelihoods and the resultant economic recession.

“Just as we are recovering, the war in Ukraine came to impact negatively on global economy. Meanwhile, we are faced with the urgency to take collective actions to stop the devastating consequences of climate change that manifest every day in parts of the world.

“The various factors that account for these challenges are beyond the capacity of any single country to effectively contain them alone. Hence, the necessity for all of us to work closely together to build consensus in order to overcome them and also minimise tensions and confrontations amongst and between ourselves,’’ he said.

President Buhari said Nigeria firmly remains committed to multilateralism.

“For us in Nigeria, we continue to make steady progress, despite the daunting challenges of insecurity, in the fight against corruption, diversification of the economy, and our efforts in promoting good governance, amongst other things.

“At the sub-regional and regional levels, Nigeria has continued to work with other member-states of ECOWAS and other regional blocs, to deal with the problems of terrorism, trans-border crimes, banditry, maritime issues, proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons, unconstitutional change of government, to mention some of the challenges we face,’’ the President stated.

While welcoming the Ambassadors and High Commissioners, and their families to Nigeria, President Buhari wished them a rewarding tour of duty.

On behalf of the diplomats, the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria assured President Buhari of the full support of their countries, especially as Nigeria counts down to the 2023 elections, adding that they would work with his government, and the leader that emerges after elections.

Balasubramanian said all the Ambassadors and High Commissioners will work to consolidate on existing good relations, while Germany will focus on climatic issues, and The Kingdom of Netherlands pursuing interests in agriculture and stimulating youths’ capacity in entrepreneurship.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

September 27, 2022

Lagos, Nigeria 28 September, 2022

2baba, Cobhams and Made Kuti set to find the most extra special band in Nigeria as Trophy Extra Special Band as season 3 kicks off

Trophy Extra Special Stout, the official sponsor of live band music in Nigeria returns with Trophy Extra Special Band Season 3 set to premiere on Saturday 1 October at 20:00 WAT

With the spotlight on the third season of Nigeria’s best live band reality TV show, Trophy Extra Special Band, the organisers have announced an expert team of judges featuring 2Baba, Cobhams Asuquo, and Trophy Extra Special Stout’s new brand ambassador, Made Kuti.

The show will premiere on Africa’s destination for premium entertainment and storytelling, MTV Base, DStv Channel 322 and GOtv Channel 72 on Saturday, 1 October 2022 at 20:00 WAT.

Judges are tasked with assessing and steering eleven bands in their quest for the grand prize of 10 million naira and a brand-new set of musical instruments over eight weeks. In addition to 2Baba, Cobhams and Made Kuti, Nigerian vocalist, dancer, lyricist, Yinka Davies and ace rapper, Illbliss will appear as guest judges. Returning as host for the new season is Bolanle Olukanni who is joined by actor, TV/radio presenter Simi Drey, as the new co-host.

Commenting on the choice of judges and hosts for the third season, Tolulope Tomori Adedeji, Marketing Director at International Breweries said, “In line with the underlying theme of our campaign, we have selected judges and hosts who are innovative leaders in their rights — true representations of the theme No DNA Needed, Originally Black. We are certain they will individually bring their unique signature and wealth of experience to bear and make this season the most memorable one so far.”

“Now in its third year, the competition provides a platform for live bands to thrive and shine in an ecosystem where the focus has been on solo acts. With exciting new additions to the third season, including more technically challenging routines and new music genres for the bands to perform, the show is bound to be incredibly reverberating,” she added.

Afrobeat scion, Made Kuti, acknowledged the importance of the show, especially in line with the ongoing Trophy Extra Special Stout thematic campaign, “No DNA needed, Originally Black” which seeks to celebrate the innovative spirit in Africans.

“Resilient ingenuity is the hallmark of Nigerians and Africans, whether they live here or any of the other 6 continents. We are innovators, pacesetters, and system builders. You know us, not only by the colour of our skin but by our resilience, and though this is commendable, it is important that platforms are created to support and empower Africa’s geniuses to thrive and shine. The Trophy Extra Special Band competition does this, and I can’t wait to be a part of the incredible journey of identifying and rewarding indigenous originality.”

Previous editions of The Trophy Extra Special Band saw Black Tunez and The Bandhitz emerge as winners in Seasons 1 and 2 respectively. Other remarkable bands from the previous seasons include The Alian Tribe, Benedictz, and Elixir, all of whom have achieved success from the show.

Expressing his delight on the continuity, Bada Akintunde-Johnson, Country Manager, Paramount Africa (parent company of MTV Base) said, “We are pleased to work with International Breweries on the production of the new season as it resonates deeply with all we stand for. Nigeria is brimming with incredible talent, and we believe that providing these talents with platforms – such as the Trophy Extra Special Band – will go a long way in unlocking their full potential. Even more crucially, it creates a sustainable means of spotlighting an underserved segment of our music industry.”

Catch Trophy Extra Special Season 3 on MTV base every Saturday from 1 October till 19November 2022 at 20:00 (WAT). There will be repeat broadcasts on Sundays and Wednesdays at 19:00 and 21:00 (WAT) respectively. The show will also air between 20:00 and 21:00 (WAT) on Africa Magic Urban, DStv channel 153 and GOtv SUPA Channel 6, as well as Africa Magic Family, DStv Channel 154 and GOtv Channel 2, every Saturday.

You can also follow the conversation on social media using the hashtag #TrophyExtraSpecialBand and the Trophy Stout Instagram handle (@trophystout).

PRESS STATEMENT

I WON’T ABANDON WIKE …Ortom

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has dismissed as a ruse, the insinuation in some media reports that he has broken away from the camp of his Rivers State counterpart, Nyesom Wike.

Speaking to journalists Tuesday, September 27th, 2022 shortly after returning from a brief London trip, he insisted that he stood with Wike and frowns at the injustices meted out on him.

Thisday Newspapers’ had in screaming headline of Tuesday September 27th, 2022, twisted the statement from the Governors media aide with the caption; “Ortom Breaks With Wike, Says He Is Not Supporting Ayu’s Removal.”

The Governor at the briefing said the news story is not only mischievous but misleading to further fuel the impasse within the PDP and sow a seed of discord between him and his Rivers State counterpart and other members of the group.

The Governor reiterated “There is no breaking away from our group. I still sympathize with Wike for the injustices meted out on him and our group.”

He said, “The Thisday news report is misleading. I just came back from London this morning with Wike and I still maintain my stand on what I said. I have not moved away from there. The party leadership has not been fair to Governor Wike based on the activities that took place during the convention and after the convention.

“They have not been able to adequately deploy the internal conflict resolution mechanism of the party to resolve those issues. So I still sympathize and stand with Wike and let the leadership of the party at the national level do the right thing. It is not too late to do so,” he said.

According to Governor Ortom “Politics is about interest, and where your interest is not protected, you have the right to protest” stressing that “We remain committed to the PDP but still want the right thing to be done, so that everybody will be carried along.”

While noting that it is not late to resolve the issues, Governor Ortom further pointed out that with the interface he had with the Board of Trustees, BOT of the party, he hopes that issues will be properly addressed.

“The issue in contention about the national Chairman, the BOT, was here some few days ago and we deliberated on the matter. They sought to know what my feeling was about the crisis and I told them the truth as far I am concerned.

“I gave them my recommendations and I hope that justice will be done so that our party will gain its position to take over power in 2023,” he said.

The Governor maintained that despite the crisis rocking the party at the national level, Benue State does not have any problem, stressing that “from bottom to top, we are good to go, as far as our party is concerned. I am working for our candidates.”

On the outcome of the caucus meeting, the Governor said after due consultations, a Benue North-West Senatorial campaign team for the Senate will be constituted, pointing out that it will be integrated into the main campaign council of PDP in Benue State.

Nathaniel Ikyur

Chief Press Secretary

September 27th, 2022.

PRESIDENT BUHARI CELEBRATES SEGUN AWOLOWO AT 59

President Muhammadu Buhari joins family and friends to rejoice with former Executive Director/CEO of Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), 2013-2021, Segun Awolowo Jnr, on his 59th birthday, September 27, 2022.

President Buhari salutes the lawyer for years of service to the nation, accepting appointments to share his wealth of knowledge and wisdom, including Special Assistant to the President on Traditional Institutions, Secretary of Social Development, FCT, and working in President’s Office with Budget Monitoring and Price Intelligence Unit, also known as Due Process, now Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP).

The President notes Awolowo’s extensive work with four Nigerian Presidents and three FCT Ministers, which reveals his patriotism and zeal to make a difference, successfully initiating and pursuing a visionary policy of Zero-oil Plan in NEPC, which calls for repositioning of the economy to favour non-oil exports.

As the scion of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo marks his 59th birthday, President Buhari believes his experience will find relevance and greater expressions as he moves higher in public service, ready and willing to make an impact on growth of the nation.

The President prays for good health, strength and greater heights for the former Executive Director of NEPC.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

September 26, 2022

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU AT CHATHAM HOUSE, CHARGES WORLD LEADERS ON SUSTAINABLE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM

…Says LASG has consistently increased budgetary allocation, efficiency in healthcare

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has appealed to world leaders, global think-tank and public office holders to work towards building a sustainable healthcare system for all and facilitate access for the poor and under-served.

Speaking on “Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria: Optimizing Institutional Opportunities and Partnerships for Success” at the weekend at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House, Governor Sanwo-Olu charged global think-tank to optimise institutional opportunities and partnerships for the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

“To achieve UHC, developing countries must first focus on offering their residents a basic minimum set of healthcare services, provided free at the point of care using subsidy, controlled premiums or at a pre-set tariff system, within government-regulated facilities either public or affiliated private,” he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State as the most populous city in Africa, a financial hub and Africa’s 5th Largest Economy on the continent, has strategically strengthened the health system in pursuit of Universal Health Coverage.

He said Lagos State has been using policies to strengthen its health systems, pushing toward the achievement of UHC, which the State considers a journey and not a destination.

“In Lagos State, we believe that policy is the most effective tool that governments can deploy in the pursuit of stronger health systems and eventually approaching UHC. The right policies will lead to the development of robust health financing systems that will serve the needs of our huge and increasing population,” he said.

Speaking on some of the policies of his administration to strengthen the health system, Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State Government has consistently increased its budgetary allocation and efficiency to healthcare over the years, noting that the desire of his government is to eventually match the Abuja Declaration of 15 percent.

He said his administration, through its capital infrastructure blueprint agenda, is upgrading and renovating its existing primary and secondary health facilities in the short term and it has commenced building new designed fit-for-purpose primary, secondary and specialist health facilities for the future.

“We recognise that the Government cannot cover the funding gap in the health system without support from the private sector. In a bid to encourage public-private partnerships, we set up various institutions such as the Office of Public Private Partnerships (OPPPs) and IBILE Holdings, a private company owned by Lagos State for the purpose of engaging with the private sector. These institutions are mandated to facilitate and fast-track PPP opportunities in Lagos State.

“We understand the need for proper governance within the administrative structure of the health system and so we inaugurated boards for all the agencies within the Lagos State Ministry of Health. This has gone a long way to strengthen the capacity of the hierarchical sub-agencies, keeping them focused on their mandates.

“We believe in health insurance as a tool that we can leverage to quickly cover ground in our quest for UHC and so we have thrown the full weight of our support behind the newly established National Health Insurance Act, and mandated our Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) to domesticate and enrol residents of Lagos into the Lagos State Social Health Insurance Scheme.

“We are leveraging partnerships with Global organisations like Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Global Fund amongst others to explore innovative ways to strengthen our primary health system. In fact, I believe that such organisations’ decisions to directly fund a sub-national like Lagos State is a testament to the clarity of our vision and our drive to achieve results,” he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also disclosed that his administration has concluded some innovative schemes in partnership with the private sector to modernise the equipment in the State’s secondary health centres and set up specialised health facilities.

“We have commenced two pilot projects: The Lagos State Oncology Centre and the Omotunde Ajoke Cole Smart Hospital. The success of these projects will mark a new dawn in our health system, where the best of the public and private sectors come together to provide world-class affordable healthcare.

“We are working hard to improve the quality of human resources we have in our health centres. We are also using a system of meritocracy to appoint Medical Directors (MDs) in health centres and ensure continuous medical and administrative education.

“We understand the critical role played by logistics within our health system and we are making sure that people, essential medicines, and consumables are easily transported within our health system,” he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said while Lagos State Government is working on innovative mechanisms to pay for healthcare, it also needs to ensure that it is building a healthcare delivery system that can provide decent healthcare services to the people of the State.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

25 SEPTEMBER 2022

NBA PRESIDENT TO GOV AKEREDOLU: YOU ARE A SOURCE OF COURAGE TO US

Condoles Ondo Gov On Mother’s Passing

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Sunday received a high-powered delegation of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) on a condolence visit.

The delegation was led by the president of the association, Chief Yakubu Maikyau, SAN.

The Governor received the NBA team in company of the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Olugbenga Ale.

In his remarks, Chief Yakubu Maikyau said the Bar is very proud of Governor Akeredolu, stressing that the Governor has charted a course for the members of the Association to follow.

The NBA President disclosed that Governor Akeredolu is the benchmark for judging president of the association.

He described the Governor as a role model that has shaped the attitudes, professionalism and courage of the NBA.

The NBA President said: “Governor Akeredolu, Our uncle, our big brother, past President of the NBA, of course, is the only Governor today that has passed through that route, that has excelled in his chosen career of law and that went ahead to lead the Nigeria Bar Association, with courage, boldness and purposefulness that nobody can deny in this country.

“These are the attributes that you, Mr. Governor, have brought into this office that he you occupy today. There are poeple who may want to say that, of the 36 Governors in this country, they probably did not know who are Governors in other states. But they cannot say so for the Governor of Ondo State. And that is why we, in the NBA, are very very proud of you.

“We are very very proud of you. You have charted a course for us to follow. You continue to remain that reference point for us as members of the Nigeria Bar Association. And to some of us that are privileged to tread on that path you have once been, and where you also led creditably, you are a source of inspiration. You are a source of courage to us.

“You are actually the benchmark for which we judge who has done well as a President of the Nigeria Bar Association. We have a role model that can shape our attitudes, that can shape our professionalism, that can shape our courage and boldness to aspire to that particularly office.

“So, my big brother, our President, I call him the President of all presidents, my prayer is that the almighty God will comfort you and the entire family and all of us that are children of Mama affected by this great loss.”

Chief Maikyau, who also described himself as one of the Children of the Late Mother of the Governor, Evangelist Grace Bosede Akeredolu, stressed that Mama’s children are beyond the territory of Ondo State but all over the country and the world.

“Your Excellency, you are not the only child of mama in this room today. I’m from Kebbi State. By the special grace of God, I’m one of the children of Mama. Honestly, there are many children of Mama that go beyond the territory of Ondo State. They are all over the country and also across the globe because of what Mama represents during her lifetime.

“I’m deliberate about using that present tense because Mama merely slept. When somebody is sleeping, you don’t refer to him or her in the past tense. Mama is alive, Mama has merely slept. I can draw strength from the Scripture that tells us that when one moves from this side of the eternity to the other realm, that such a person merely slept. There is a certain day that such person will wake up.

“Mama is one that we are sure that by the integrity of God’s words that will wake up some day at the appearance of our Lord Jesus Christ. So, I have come not to mourn will you but to just bring words of comfort to you because our parents can never be too old to stay back with us.

“We all miss the physical fellowship we had with Mama. There are things, perhaps, you had wanted to discuss with Mama but her physical absence has robbed you of the opportunity of doing so.”

“I have come to celebrate with you that Mama has left this side of eternity in terms of her physical presence. I have come to celebrate with you for the fact that Mama lived well, and to underscore that fact that I’m also Mama’s child,” he added.

Governor Akeredolu thanked the NBA President for the visit and congratulated him on his deserved victory as the President of the Bar.

The Governor also commended the courage of the NBA President for speaking up against the intrusion into the house of a Court of Appeal judge, Ita Mbaba, in Kano, Kano State.

Governor Akeredolu urged the Bar President to continue to be the voice of the people.

“We must continue to prosecute our conviction with courage. We need a Bar that is courageous. And you have shown it,” the Governor said.

On his late mum, Governor Akeredolu said: ”Our mother lived to a ripe age of 90. We have picked a date, November 10, 11 and 12. We will thank God the best way we can. For me, it is for us to thank God for his grace. This is a Graceful exit of Grace. We will celebrate her.”

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

September 25, 2022.

PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU, SGF, SULTAN, CAN PRESIDENT TASK NIGERIANS ON PEACE, JUSTICE

As Governor urges people to be cautious of utterances, actions about 2023 elections

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Mustapha, and leaders of the Nigeria Inter-Religion Council (NIREC) have called on Nigerians, irrespective of religious and ethnic differences to work together for peace and justice in country.

Sanwo-Olu, Mustapha and co-chairmen of NIREC – Sultan of Sokoto and leader of Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), His Eminence Mohammed Sa’ad Abubakar and President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. (Dr.) Daniel Okoh, made the appeal on Monday during the 3rd Quarter Meeting 2022 of the Nigeria Inter-Religion Council held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island.

Governor Sanwo-Olu in his address urged religious and traditional leaders to continue making it a collective responsibility to preach and work towards promoting unity, peace, justice and tranquility in Nigeria.

Speaking on the theme of the meeting, “Working together for justice and peace,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said promoting unity, peace, justice and tranquility in Nigeria will bring about a peaceful coexistence among the people.

“I believe with the case of NIREC that we have today and that we have seen consistently, this country will not be put to shame. I am hoping that the conversations, discussions and decisions at the NIREC meeting will further strengthen that thing that we all swore to; to ensure justice, peace and equity in this country.

“We are at a time this country needs all of us, now more than ever before and so, we should not allow hate speech. We cannot afford ethnic bigotry. We cannot afford to be divided. We are going into elections; let us see the commitment and nationality in all of us,” Governor Sanwo-Olu urged Nigerians.

The Governor also expressed his administration’s commitment to the delivery of dividends of democracy in Lagos State. “As a political leader, the only way we will not fail our people is by ensuring that we give good governance. I stand here as your 15th Governor of Lagos State and I want to repeat that the ‘Greater Lagos’ agenda is something that we are committed to and it is something that we have signed unto,” he said.

Speaking on the ongoing Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU) strike and the union face-off with the Federal Government, Governor Sanwo-Olu said though none of the Lagos State-owned three universities are on strike, it is painful that children in other universities are at home in the last seven months.

Sanwo-Olu, who appealed that ASUU should call off the strike and get the students back to school, said the academic union and the Federal Government should quickly resolve the lingering issue necessitating the over seven months strike “in order not to compromise the future of our children.”

Mustapha, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Secretary to Government of the Federation, Dr. Maurice Nnamdi Mbaeri, said the meeting was a call to national duty to take an active part in renewing troubled communities.

He charged people, especially religious leaders to work for justice, peace and fair play to create the needed change so that Nigerians can always live in unity and harmony.

“I want to charge every one of us to work for peace that will endure and outlast us by creating functional structures for generations unborn. This structure must have the capacity to be proactive in responding to emerging issues while reinforcing a longer and larger change processes. We cannot fold our hands when we see problems emerging,” he said.

The Sultan of Sokoto, a Co-Chairman of NIREC, said the role of religious leaders is to be just and fair to earn the trust of the people. He also urged Muslims and Christians in the country to come together to pursue peace and justice as they are inseparable.

He pleaded with ASUU to call off the ongoing strike, saying both the Federal Government and academic union should find a common ground to resolve their conflict in the interest of the students, who have not been in school in the last seven months.

The President of CAN and NIREC’s Co-chairman, Rev. Daniel Okoh, urged people to embrace peace, desist from hateful utterances, live in peaceful coexistence with one another, be accountable, elect leaders with capacities during the 2023 general elections and abhor tribal sentiments, among others vices.

In his speech, the Executive Secretary of NIREC, Cornelius Omonokhua, said the meeting was aimed at changing existing narratives to allow justice and peace to reign in Nigeria.

He said there was a need for mental reengineering, change of values and attitudes as well as radical emancipation to address the root of various calamities of national concerns.

Also speaking, the Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, called on religious leaders to continue to preach peace and unity to bring about development in the country.

SIGNED

GBOYEGA AKOSILE

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

26 SEPTEMBER 2022

Julius Berger commences immediate repair on Km 75 Abuja – Kaduna Expressway

Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has begun an immediate emergency repair around Kilometre 75 Abuja – Kaduna Expressway. This is in response to the hardship caused by the deplorable condition of that portion of the highway.

Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is currently reconstructing the 376-kilometer Abuja-Kano Road (AKR) and has made tremendous progress at different sections of the AKR project. The project is divided into Sections 1 (Abuja-Kaduna), 2 (Kaduna-Zaria) and 3 (Zaria-Kano), and out of 376 kilometers, over 152 kilometers have progressed up to the wearing course with 140 kilometers already handed over.

Regrettably, Section 1 has lagged largely due to disruptions by activities of bandits and other criminal elements along the axis. However, with the remarkable and reassuring gains made by members of the armed forces and other security agencies recently, Julius Berger engineers are returning to the site to commence the reconstruction of this 165-kilometre section of the project. Top-level meetings are also ongoing between the management of Julius Berger and the Kaduna State Government to ensure that the project can continue hitch-free.

The AKR currently has a total of 4480 number manpower deployed on and off-site, and with the 74km length Section 2 (Kaduna to Zaria) project nearing completion, Julius Berger hopes to bolster its number of men and equipment on the remaining Sections, most especially Section 1, guaranteeing intense pace in the delivery of the project.

Julius Berger Nigeria Plc again reassures commuters and the general public of its commitment to delivering a quality road project that will serve them and ease their current challenges on the road .

More Laurels As Dum Dekor, Others Bag Methodist Church Award In Lagos

The lawmaker representing Khana/Gokana federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Dumnamene Robinson Dekor was among 180 Nigerians who received the prestigious Honorific Award for outstanding leadership, service to God and positive contribution to humanity.

The colourful ceremony which held at the Birch Freeman’s Methodist Cathedral, Badagry, Lagos on Saturday, attracted people from all walks of life including Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The prestigious award by Birch Freeman’s, the first Methodist Church in Nigeria, established since 1842, is coming on the heels of the conferment on Dekor As Best Federal Lawmaker of Year Award by the African Trendsetters, a fortnight ago in Port Harcourt.

Rt. Hon. Dekor, a former Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly as well as former Works Commissioner in the state has also won back to back the Dmoma Best Lawmaker Award in 2020 and 2021 respectively.

He also bagged the National Network Leadership Award in 2019 and has been nominated for Best Federal Lawmaker Award by the newspaper in it’s 18th Anniversary Celebration billed for Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt on 28th October, 2022.

The appreciative federal lawmaker, in his words said he owes gratitude to God and humanity for the series of awards, saying that whatever he is doing is a payback to society and particularly to his Ogoni people, whose mandate he has to represent them at the National Assembly.

The awards on the 180 Nigerians is in commemoration of 180th / 60th Anniversary of Methodist Church in Nigeria.

PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS PAUL UNONGO AT 87

President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with former Minister of Steel Development, Paul Unongo, on his 87thbirthday, September 26, 2022, rejoicing with the elder statesman for a life of service to the nation and humanity.

The President hails the political leader for his principled and philosophical outlook on life, which guides his choices in business, politics and governance, with a preparedness to give more than he receives, and spend his time and resources in improving the lives of others.

President Buhari notes the sacrifices, selflessness and resilience of the nationalist, who worked many years as a banker, before returning to school to obtain his B.SC, M.SC and doctorate in Experimental Psychology in Canada and London, returning to Nigeria to lecture in the university and contributing to major political and constitutional reforms.

As founder of the Paul Unongo Foundation turns 87, the President celebrates with his family members, friends and associates.

The President prays that the Almighty God will continue to bless and keep the political leader and his family.

Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

September 25, 2022

Lagos, Nigeria 27 September, 2022

Amstel Malta Ultra hosts Enugu to the inaugural Fitness Fiesta

Emphasising its commitment to wellness and a healthy lifestyle among Nigerians, Amstel Malta Ultra hosted consumers to the first-ever Amstel Malta Ultra Fitness Fiesta on 24 September, 2022 at the Michael Okpara Square, Enugu.

With several fitness instructors in attendance, the workout session was led by ex-BBNaija housemate and fitness influencer, Okusaga Adeoluwa, popularly known as Saga, which excited many participants, including hundreds of fitness enthusiasts who trooped into the venue to get registered and participate in the workout sessions.

Speaking on the ultra-fitness fiesta in Enugu, Funso Ayeni, Head of Trade Marketing, Nigerian Breweries PLC said, “The selection of the Coal City of Enugu for this novel event was a straightforward decision as the state is renowned for its passion for fitness, sports and youth development. Although this is the maiden edition of the Ultra Fitness Fiesta, we hope to deepen our involvement in local sporting activities such that this become a staple in Nigeria’s annual sporting calendar.”

Activities at the fiesta also included dance sessions, aerobics, High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) among many other exciting workout routines, refreshed by Amstel Malta Ultra to energise the participants.

This event is the first leg of the 3-week long Amstel Malta Ultra Fitness Fiesta. The second leg is the 20km marathon, Run For The Coal City, which will hold on 1 October, 2022. Celebrities and fitness influencers such as the Amstel Malta brand ambassador and actress, Dakore Egbuson-Akande; award-winning Nigerian athlete, Ese Brume and fitness trainer, Sandra Okeke (SOfit) are set to attend.

Southwest Directors of Culture meet in Ogun

Directors of Culture in all the Yoruba speaking states will meet in Abeokuta, the Capital of Ogun State, this Friday, to deliberate on the region’s coming celebration of Yoruba fashion culture and its business exposition tagged ‘Ilẹ-Kaaarọ-Oo-jiire Fashion week’ slated for the last quarter of this year.

With the motto: From Farm to Fashion, the-week long activities are being organised by the Yoruba World Centre, in collaboration with the Ogun State Government, to educate, demonstrate, and expose the arts of Yoruba fashion and the hidden investment opportunities in its process to national and international publics. It is majorly tailored for youth development and women empowerment.

It is a week of history of Yoruba fashion, as packaged by Crystalline World Heritage, where demonstration will start from the planting and harvesting of cotton, the process of turning cotton into yarn (grinning), from where cloths distributors and retailers sell to the public, before it gets to dress makers for different styles.

The Ogun State Commissioner of Culture and Tourism, Mrs Motunrayo Adijat Adeleye Oladapo, who is to host the directors reiterated the importance of the programme, saying ‘it is one of the best ways to assist our youths and empower the womenfolk, and also to foster investment relations at regional, national and international levels.”

Speaking on behalf of the Yoruba World Centre, the Director of the project, Prince Akinwale Atepe, stated that the week is going to be carnival-like as ministries of culture in Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo are preparing their cultural troupes for this special event. “I have visited most of the states, met with commissioners, Permanent Secretaries and directors, we are all prepared for the meeting from where the ball will be set rolling, because it is at this meeting that a date will be picked between the end of November and early December for the programme.”

Lagos, Nigeria 26 September 2022

South African Pioneer Riky Rick posthumously receives inaugural Global Visionary Award at The BET HipHop Awards 2022

Hosted by Fat Joe, “BET Hip Hop Awards” 2022 premieres Wednesday, 05 October 2022 at 02:00 am WAT/ 03:00 am CAT and repeat at 18:30WAT/19:30 CAT

Rikhado “Riky Rick” Makhado will be honoured posthumously with the prestigious title his fans have known him to hold ever since he broke into the industry: The Global Visionary Award, during the International Broadcast of the 2022 BET Hip-Hop Awards. The esteemed award recognises and honours champions of culture, including artists, DJs, and music industry professionals who have made ground-breaking efforts to expand the culture of hip-hop on the World Stage. Riky Rick is the inaugural recipient of this award.

Hosted by Grammy®-nominated recording artist, actor, entrepreneur, and media personality Fat Joe the “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” 2022, will tape from the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, GA, on Friday, September 30, and will premiere Internationally on BET Africa, DStv channel 129 on Wednesday, 05 October 2022 at 02:00 am WAT/ 03:00 am CAT and repeat at 18:30WAT/19:30 CAT.

“The BET Global Visionary Award comes as a heart-warming opportunity to celebrate Rikhado’s life and his deep love for humanity”, said Louisa Zondo, Riky Rick’s mother. “I see the award as a recognition of the positive impact of the music Rikhado shared with us. The award also highlights how Rikhado used arts and culture as an important and effective pathway for people to truly connect with, care for and be seen by each other.”

The South African Entrepreneur, Rapper, and Fashion Icon, Riky Rick, has been a force in the music industry since the release of “Nafukwa”, which won an MTV Africa Award for Video of the Year. Riky Rick’s dynamic and prominent voice in SA hip-hop has earned him recognition as a highly regarded creative who has left an indelible mark on the global music scene. He pioneered the independent music wave in SA and beyond, separating from his label and releasing music directly to fans online. His independent ventures achieved much success and inspired other artists to explore a similar path. He is the founder and owner of Cotton Club Records and of Cotton Fest, a platform that celebrates the world of music and fashion.

“As Riky’s family, we are moved and honoured to receive the BET Global Visionary Award on behalf of our beloved, Riky Rick,” said Bianca Naidoo Makhado, Riky Rick’s wife. “This award honours his work and his name. I am so proud that my husband’s work is still making a positive impact within the entertainment space and that his legacy continues to inspire young creatives. This award reminds us of his love for his fans and for the culture.”

“Riky Rick means so much to so many of us, not just South African hip-hop fans but globally beyond the mic. His impact in changing the South African hip-hop game to be more inclusive, particularly in encouraging young creatives to take control of their destiny and dare to dream bigger, endures as one of his most influential and lasting legacies. His legacy continues to inspire and together with Bianca, we hope to honour Riky by championing a new generation of black creatives while celebrating his life and what he stood for,” said Monde Twala, Senior Vice president and General Manager, Paramount Africa and Peer Lead, BET International.

Riky Rick’s untimely passing, due to mental health struggles, is a great loss for many. This Award aims to honour his life, work, and his lasting impact while raising awareness around mental health issues and shedding light on available coping resources. Riky Rick was an innovator in many spheres of culture and the world benefited greatly from his intuitive vision.

For more information about “BET Hip Hop Awards” including the latest news and updates, visit bet.com/hiphopawards.

GOV AKEREDOLU FLAGS OFF ORANGHIS, SAYS IT WILL LOWER FINANCIAL BARRIERS TO HEALTHCARE FOR PUBLIC SERVANTS

Performs Foundation Laying Ceremony Of Contributory Health Commission

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, on Tuesday disclosed that his administration has continued to demonstrate political will in attaining Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in accordance with one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Governor Akeredolu expressed his administration’s commitment to quality healthcare delivery in the state.

He spoke at the official flag off of the Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) for public servants in the state.

The Governor equally performed the foundation-laying ceremony of the permanent office complex of the State Contributory Health Commission beside the State Revenue House, Igbatoro Road, Akure.

At the well attended event held at the International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, Akure, Governor Akeredolu explained that the official flag off of ORANGHIS ushered in a breath of fresh air in the healthcare delivery system in line with the fifth point of his government’s REDEEMED agenda, which is Effective Healthcare and Social Welfare.

According to him, ORANGHIS is designed for all political office holders and civil servants in the State.

He noted that the delight of any Governor in a developing country like Nigeria, is to be able to create a sustainable funding mechanism that lowers the financial barriers to healthcare for the citizenry.

The Governor said:”In spite of the obvious economic constraints across Nigeria, we approved the joint contribution of 3% of gross salary of each public servant under a sharing ratio of 1.8% by the State Government and 1.2% by individual public servant, as the premium for a family health insurance plan, covering each public servant, one spouse and four biological children below the age of 18 years.

“It is on record that we are the only State Government, in recent times, that is taking up the responsibility of a larger percentage (60%) of the health insurance premium for public servants. We made the commitment to do so as part of the social welfare promise under the REDEEMED agenda.”

He acknowledged the patriotic support of the labour unions in enthroning the Orange Health Insurance Scheme, saying they have shown maturity, dedication, understanding and true sense of comradeship.

“We have continued to demonstrate political will since on 6th February, 2018, when I signed into Law, the Bill establishing the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission and the Ondo State Contributory Health Scheme in response to the pressing global need to attain Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in accordance with one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“We also gave effect to the operationalisation of this Law by creating a temporary office space for the Commission, which we officially opened on 24th June, 2019, to begin her mandate of regulating, supervising and coordinating all health insurance activities within the State.

“You will recall that we have begun the implementation of health insurance by paying the premium for pregnant women and children below the age of five years through a budgetary line for the Abiyamo Maternal-and-Child Health Insurance Scheme (AMCHIS) – the first health insurance product.

“I am glad to inform you that the Abiyamo scheme since 3rd December, 2019 till date, has recorded over 24,200 beneficiaries who have not had to pay a kobo for antenatal care, delivery services (including Caesarean Sections) and other allied services.

“Thereafter, we approved the release of the State’s counterpart fund to the Federal Government-funded Basic Health Care Provision Fund Programme (BHCPFP) in order for another set of vulnerable persons in Ondo State to enjoy robust healthcare services.

“Today, 20,560 enrollees, made up of widows, retirees, aged, indigents, women and children below five years are the six categories of beneficiaries receiving care at the 203 Primary Health Care Facilities (1 per 203 wards) with referrals to general hospitals when required under the BHCPF programme.

“The beneficiaries pay no kobo for medical, surgical, gynaecology and several other health care services. We are, therefore, glad that the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission has taken the health insurance conversation a step higher with the third product called Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) for all public servants in Ondo State.”The Governor stressed.

Governor Akeredolu revealed that a fourth health insurance scheme known as Sunshine Health Insurance Scheme (SUNSHIS) for the informal sector will also commence in the nearest future to cover artisans, market women, commercial transport operators

“Finally, please be assured that the State Government’s percentage contribution and the premium deductions from public servants’ salaries to the Orange Health Insurance Scheme shall not wane.

Furthermore, a fourth health insurance scheme known as Sunshine Health Insurance Scheme (SUNSHIS) for the informal sector that makes up about 95% of our population shall also commence in the nearest future to cover artisans, market women, commercial transport operators etc.

“I am also aware that pensioners and students shall have their own scheme too. This means that every resident of Ondo State will be brought into the safety net of the Universal Health Coverage.” He said.

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

September 27, 2022.

AKEREDOLU REPRESENTS WHAT NIGERIANS DESIRE AT THIS TIME – PETER OBI

Condoles Ondo Gov Over Mum’s Passage
We’ll Give Her A Glorious Funeral- Gov Akeredolu

The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, on Tuesday said the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, represents what Nigerians desire at this present time.

Obi described Governor Akeredolu as a leader who speaks the truth at all times no matter the consequences.

The LP Presidential candidate spoke during a condolence visit to the Governor at the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Alagbaka, Akure.

Also on ground to receive him were the wife of the Governor, Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu; the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; the Chief of Staff, Chief Olugbenga Ale; Director General of the Project Performance and Implementation Monitoring Unit and grandson of the deceased, Mr Babajide Akeredolu among others.

Obi, who said things are going wrong in the country because people choose to keep quiet, commended the Governor for speaking up for the people.

He charged Governor Akeredolu to continue to take every necessary step to protect his people, adding that the Governor is doing the right thing.

Obi said: “I urge you to continue in that direction. You represent one of those things Nigerians desire, ability to speak the truth no matter the consequences.

“What is lacking in Nigeria is that we choose to keep quiet when things are going wrong. You have a man here who always speaks when things are going wrong, and I urge you to continue.”

He supported Governor Akeredolu on his move to arm the Amotekun Corps, saying the Governor must continue to do his best to defend his people.

“Arm those special security poeple. Take every step to protect your people. It is important and it is your duty. I’m happy that you are speaking out always when necessary. May God Almighty continue to be with you and bless all of you.” He added.

Obi condoled the Governor on the demise of his mother, Lady Evangelist Grace Akeredolu, JP, praying God to grant her eternal rest.

The LP presidential standard bearer equally used the occasion to commiserate with the Governor over the sad incident at St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, where 41 people were killed and several other injured.

In his response, Governor Akeredolu appreciated Obi and his entourage for finding time to visit him.

Akeredolu, who said what happened on June 5 at St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, was horrendous, also described the sad incident as unexpected and uncommon, especially in the Southern part of the country.

On the death of his mother, the Governor said she would surely be missed even though she left at the ripe age of 90 years.

He expressed joy that all of her late mother’s children survived her, saying she would be given a glorious and befitting burial.

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

September 27, 2022.

APPRECIATION AND ANNOUNCEMENT OF BURIAL ARRANGEMENTS

On behalf of my siblings and the entire Akeredolu family, I wish to express our profound gratitude to all those who have reached out to us through visits and messages since the transition of our loving and lovely mother, Lady Evangelist Grace Bosede Akeredolu. It has been a deluge.

Your display of love is profoundly appreciated. We cannot thank you enough. Your love and kindness are, indeed, potent enhancers for us to deepen our abiding faith in God and service to humanity.

We are equally grateful to those who spared time to visit us at the Kopindogba residence of Maami in Ibadan. We extend our appreciation to those who visited us at the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Akure, and everyone who has identified with us and other members of the Akeredolu family in Owo, Lagos and Abuja. Your affectionate support is heart-lifting.

We appreciate the love and sympathy of political leaders, royal fathers, religious leaders, community leaders, heads of security agencies, organised labour, unionists, civil servants, public officials, student leaders, women groups as well as politicians across political parties.

We would like to request friends, associates and well-wishers to join us in giving our late matriarch a glorious funeral. The obsequies are as follows:

Thursday, November 10, 2022

Service of Songs at St. Matthias Anglican Church, Orogun, Ibadan.

Jacob & Grace Chapel of the All Saints Church, Iddo Eruwa Road, Ibadan.

Time: 4pm.

Friday, November 11, 2022

Commendation Service at St. Anne’s Anglican Church, Molete, Ibadan, by 9am.

Service of Songs at St Andrew’s Cathedral, Imola Street, Owo, by 4pm.

Wake Keep at Jacob & Grace Garden, Opposite Imade College, Oke-Ogun, Owo.

Saturday, November 12, 2022

Burial Service at St Andrew’s Cathedral, Imola Street, Owo, by 10am.

Interment follows immediately after the burial service.

Reception at Mydas Hotel and Resort, Ikare Road, Owo.

We covet your prayers and supports as we prepare to celebrate the life of Maami.

Signed:

Arakunrin Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu, SAN

Governor, Ondo State.

PRESS STATEMENT

Rotimi Fashakin Was A Quintessential Personality, Reliable Ally – Akeredolu

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, received the news of the sudden death of former Executive Director of Operations of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Engr. Rotimi Fashakin, with rude shock.

Governor Akeredolu described the death of the former spokesman of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) as a big blow to Ondo State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the country at large.

“We understand that death is a debt which everyone will surely pay if Jesus tarries. We are, however, pained with the loss of this resourceful and dedicated son of our dear State, who has shown passion and commitment to the good of the state and its people.

“ Rotimi and I had worked together in various assignments. He was our Publicity Secretary when I was the Chairman of the Caretaker Committee of the APC in the state. His intellectual prowess stood him out as a gifted man.

“Beyond mere emotions, his demise is a piercing pain which is difficult to understand. But as Christians, we must submit totally to the will of the Almighty God as the giver and taker of lives,” the Governor said.

Governor Akeredolu said the late Engr. Rotimi Fashakin gave his best in the service to humanity and the country.

“A fellow alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Rotimi was a quintessential personality who has served this country and his state in his little way. He will be sorely missed, may God grant him eternal rest. ” Governor Akeredolu added.

The Governor commiserated with the widow and children of the deceased. He prayed God to grant the family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Signed:

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Govenror of Ondo State.

September 26, 2022.

PRESIDENT BUHARI TO CONFER CON NATIONAL HONOUR ON GOV AKEREDOLU

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has been named as one of the recipients of the 2022 National Honour Award of the Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON by President Muhammadu Buhari.

This was contained in a letter from the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs signed by the Minister, Senator George Akume.

The Minister in the letter, which read in parts, said: “I have the honour to formally inform you that the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, has approved the conferment of the National Honours on you, in the rank of CON (Commander of the Order of the Niger).

“The investiture ceremony is scheduled to take place at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Abuja on Tuesday, 11th October 2022 at 9:00 am”.

GOV AKEREDOLU: WE’II FACE DOWN CONFLICT ENTREPRENEUR, ENEMIES OF THE PEOPLE

Says Amotekun Will Be Armed And Backed By Law

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has said the Amotekun Corps must be allowed to bear the tools and the most sophisticated weapons available to fight back against marauders committing crimes against humanity.

Governor Akeredolu explained that the incontestable authority of the state must be imposed in the country which is under threat by brazen conflict entrepreneurs and armed, audacious non-state actors.

He asserted that the State Security outfits backed by law whether in the Western Nigeria, Katsina, Borno, Benue or any Northern State must have access to the same sophisticated weapons that the marauders have.

The Governor vowed that his administration will continue to support the operational capacity of all security agencies in the State both in terms of equipment and the welfare of their personnel.

He spoke at the Passing-Out Parade of Courses 3 and 4 of the State Amotekun Corps at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade, Igbatoro Road, Akure on Monday.

Governor emphasised that the passing out ceremony is a reminder of the need to strategize and tackle the current security situation, which he said has been left to snowball into existential crises across Nigeria.

He averred that the commitment of his administration to the safety and welfare of the people of the State and investors remains unshaken.

Governor Akeredolu charged the new officers to do nothing that will soil the image of Amotekun Corps, adding that much is expected from them.

“The key guiding principles which you must adhere to at all times include spartan discipline, zero-tolerance to bribery and abuse of power, prompt response to distress calls and display of professionalism in the discharge of your duties. No form of misconduct shall be tolerated.” He stressed.

The Governor, who noted that the current internal security framework in the country is ineffectual, submitted that the response of the subnationals by setting up their own outfits is welcome, necessary, and has become indispensable.

Governor Akeredolu said:”The Western Nigeria Security Network, AMOTEKUN CORPS, as a response, is now not just the first line of defence, but the ultimate bulwark in the protection of a way of life and of a civilization.

“The efforts of our determined and valiant Amotekun personnel since inception must be underscored, encouraged and highly commended. We must all rise at this time to acknowledge their efforts.

“On our parts, we will continue to support the operational capacity of all security agencies in the State both in terms of equipment and the welfare of their personnel.

“The recent donation of 50-fitted patrol vehicles is a testament to our resolve to be up-to-date in fighting crime and criminality because without a secured environment, there can never be visible and sustained development.

“The Amotekun Corps must be given the tools to carry out its now pivotal, indispensable duties. For centuries, we have been admonished that “a bad workman blames his tools,” in the case of Amotekun Corps the workman is expected to function without good tools.

“It is not only absurd, but also a dereliction of duty and a cause of disaffection. Dissatisfaction is induced by a feeling of unfairness. The crises in the conventional wisdom is life-threatening and nationwide. Therefore, it is unacceptable if the state sanctions differing rules of engagement for different sub-national governments.

“Without providing the sub-national security forces to be a counter-balancing force we have a crisis which strikes at the heart of the conception and the definition of the state itself. It is not just the definition of the State, the State itself is under existential threat.

“The modern state is defined by Treaties. The conception of the modern state beatified by these treaties gives it “an incontestable monopoly of the means of violence, intimidation and coercion.”

“Those passing out today have undergone rigorous training at great expense to the state. The training will not end here it will be continuous. However, no amount of training will mask the debilitation of fighting with one arm tied against implacable foes.

“Amotekun must therefore be armed and will be armed and be backed by law. Otherwise, the training will be inadequate and we will be placing the lives of these great patriots in danger.

The colourful Passing Out Parade was attended by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; members of Ondo State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Bamidele Oleyelogun; the Chief Judge of the state represented by the High Court Registrar, Bolatito Ajibade; Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state, Ade Adetimehin; Commander, Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye; members of the State Executive Council led by Princess Oladunni Odu; traditional rulers; Heads of security agencies; local government chairmen; religious leaders;

In their separate goodwill messages, the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Kiladejo and the chairman of Idanre local government, Prince Kayode Aroloye, saluted the courage of Governor Akeredolu which has ensured improved security of lives and property of the citizens through the establishment of Amotekun Corps.

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

September 26, 2022.

YOU ARE THE LEADER WE DESERVE – ONDO PDP SENATORIAL CANDIDATE, ADEDIPE, TELLS GOV AKEREDOLU

Pays Condolence Visit to Ondo Gov

Senatorial Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo Central, Chief Ifedayo Adedipe, SAN, on Sunday paid a condolence visit to the State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN.

The PDP candidate and his team were received at the Presidential Lodge, Government House, Alagbaka, Akure.

The Governor also received in audience a prominent Niger Delta leader and entrepreneur, Senior High Chief Bibopere Ajube and Pastor Gbenga Akinbiyi of the PromisedLand Prophetic Ministries,Akure.

The Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Olugbenga Ale; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union matters and Special Duties, Mr. Dare Aragbaye, joined the Governor to receive the visitors.

The PDP Senatorial candidate, Adedipe, described the late mother of the Governor, Lady Evangelist Grace Bosede Akeredolu, as an uncommonly gifted mother.

He congratulated the Governor for witnessing the transition of his mother at old age.

Adedipe said: ”First of all, Mama was uncommonly gifted, having seven of you and all of you are alive. In her life time, all of you attained every considerable height. You were once the Attorney-General of this state and then the President of the Nigerian Bar Association.

“You attained the rank of senior advocate. You became a member of the Body of life Benchers and that is the height you could get to in the profession. People dream of all these. In her life time, God gifted you all these. Mama is what we call ‘Abiyamo Tooto’.

“I read in your tribute that she was a prayer warrior. Indeed, God answered her prayers. We thank God for her life, we thank God for your life. It is not all that aspire that get to the level of aspiration. But at God’s own time, everything falls in place for you. This is largely due to Mama’s prayers.

“I lost my mother about two years ago now. You came for the celebration. I know I am missing her motherly advice, I know you will miss your Mum too. So, you have my sympathy. You are my senior in the legal profession. As a Life Bencher, you are my leader.

“My friends and I came to commiserate with you. Regardless of how old they are, we will still miss them, the motherly love and care. But the good Lord that kept her to that level will continue to look after you and your siblings.

“It doesn’t matter how old you think you are, I pray that as long as you live, you will never mourn your children. You have been successful, your children will be more successful. You are well known in this country, your children will be well known better across the world.

“I appreciate you for your courage. You have led us very well in this State. I am particularly enamored with your activism. You are the only Governor talking about our security. You have been defending our people. Thank you, congratulations. You are indeed the leader we deserve.”

Also, prominent Niger Delta leader and entrepreneur, Senior High Chief Bibopere Ajube described the late Lady Evangelist Grace Bosede Akeredolu as a wonderful mother and sister.

Ajube, who led other chiefs and the APC candidate for Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency, Hon. Donald Ojogo on a condolence visit to the Governor, said the Ijaw people will be part of the celebration of life of the late mother of the Governor.

Responding, Governor Akeredolu thanked Adedipe and other members of his team for the visit.

Richard Olatunde

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

September 26, 2022.

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