President Muhammadu Buhari rejoices with Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, on his 65th birthday, April 10th, 2022, joining family members, friends and associates to celebrate the milestone with the business magnate.
The President shares the memorable occasion with the Dangote Group, which includes management and members of staff, and the many visionary leaders that daily redefine the livelihood of Nigerians for the better, and drive competitiveness in the economy with clear ranking of excellence in provision of goods and services.
As Alhaji Dangote turns 65, President Buhari affirms the footprints of the consummate businessman in key sectors of the economy, and the remarkable results achieved in production and supply of food items, making him a household name. More recently, his dynamism in buoying the economy through heavy investments in building Africa’s largest refinery, fertiliser manufacturing company, and cement factories.
President Buhari appreciates the patriotism, simplicity and wisdom that Dangote has consistently displayed, making Nigeria and Nigerians his first priority, while setting example for many that charity truly begins from home.
The President wishes him greater service to God, country, and humanity.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
April 10, 2022
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU CONGRATULATES DANGOTE AT 65
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the Nigerian business magnate and President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote on his 65th birthday.
He described Dangote, who clocks 65 on Sunday, April 10, as a renowned business man, seasoned administrator, and philanthropist who has contributed immensely to the economy and livelihood of many Nigerians.
Sanwo-Olu said the business magnate is doing a lot for Nigeria by contributing to the growth of her economy and providing jobs and empowerment for millions of people, especially youths in different parts of the country.
Governor Sanwo-Olu in a message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Gboyega Akosile, on Sunday, praised Alhaji Dangote’s contribution to the economy of Nigeria through his various manufacturing companies in different parts of the country, especially the Dangote Fertilizer Plant and the Dangote Refinery in Lekki, Lagos.
He said: “On behalf of my wife, Ibijoke, Lagos State Government, and the good people of Lagos State, I join family, friends and business associates to congratulate you (Alhaji Aliko Dangote) on your 65th birthday celebration.
“You are a blessing to your generation considering how God has been using you to put smiles on the faces of many Nigerians working in your companies. You are an employer of labour and a respected business magnate who is contributing positively to the economy of Nigeria.
“Lagos is happy to associate with you because of the tremendous work you are doing in our State by setting up two of your major companies – Dangote Fertilizer Plant and Dangote Refinery – that have provided job opportunities for thousands of Lagosians.
“We want to thank God for the grace upon your life and for using your business acumen and philanthropic gestures for good cause in our society.
“I wish you all the very best on your 65th birthday. I pray that God will grant you long life and sound health for you to continue to contribute to humanity.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
10 APRIL 2022
April 9, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Sets Up Osun State Caretaker Committee
The National Working Committee (NWC) of our great Party has approved the composition of a Caretaker Committee to run the affairs of the Osun State Chapter of our Party.
This follows the expiration of the tenure of the State Executive Committee of Osun State Chapter.
The Osun Caretaker Committee is to manage the affairs of the Party in Osun State from Friday, April 8, 2022 for a period not exceeding 90 days (3 months) or till such a time a new State Executive Committee will be elected in the State.
The members of the Osun State Caretaker Committee are as follows:
- Dr. Adekunle Akindele = Chairman
- Otunba Femi Carena = Secretary
- Barr. Niyi Owolade = Member
- Chief Mrs. Ayo Awolowo = Member
- Dr. B.T. Salami = Member
- Engr. Adetoye Ogunboyega = Member
- Alh. Razaq Oyelani = Member
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretar
NIN-SIM: Reverse decision to block phone lines of 72 million subscribers, SERAP tells Buhari
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Muhammadu Buhari to “direct the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to immediately reverse the apparently unlawful decision to block over 72 million active telecommunication subscribers from making calls on their SIMs.”
Last week, the Federal Government ‘ordered’ telecommunications companies to block outgoing calls on all unlinked lines as the deadline for the verification expired on March 31. Following the directive, over 72 million subscribers have now been barred from making calls.
In the open letter dated 9 April, 2022 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said, “Blocking people from making calls undermines their ability to communicate freely, and associate with others. It infringes their rights to freedom of expression and family life, as well as socio-economic rights.”
SERAP, “The decision will have a chilling effect, dissuading the free expression of ideas and information.”
According to SERAP, “The decision to block people from making calls is also inconsistent and incompatible with the country’s international legal obligations to respect, protect, promote and facilitate economic and social rights. The decision contradicts the tenets of the rule of law, and a democratic society.”
SERAP said, “Immediately reversing the decision would be in conformity with the Nigerian Constitution of 1999 [as amended], and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations. Reversing the decision would also improve the confidence of the international community in human rights and the rule of law in Nigeria.”
The letter, read in part, “Access to telecommunications services is a condition sine qua non for the effective exercise of human rights. Therefore, the decision to block people from making calls is discriminatory, and a travesty.”
“The decision will cause a wide variety of harms to economic activity, personal safety, and disproportionately affect those on the margins of society. This will directly hinder the ability of the government to achieve the 2030 Agenda’s Goal 8 on the promotion of sustained, inclusive, sustainable economic growth.”
“Millions of Nigerians including persons with disabilities, elderly citizens, persons living in remote areas have been unable to capture their biometrics, and obtain their National Identity Numbers [NINs] due to logistical challenges, administrative and bureaucratic burdens, as well as the persistent collapse of the national grid.”
“This has resulted in the discrimination of marginalized or vulnerable groups.”
“We would be grateful if the decision to block people from making calls on their SIMs is reversed within 48 hours of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions in the public interest to ensure full compliance with human rights standards.”
“The rights to freedom of expression, access to information, and freedom of association, whether offline or online promote the democratic ideal by allowing citizens to voice their concerns, challenge governmental institutions, and hold government accountable for its actions.”
“The democratic ideal rationale also recognizes the necessity of having a well-informed citizenry to participate in the democratic process.”
“We support any lawful means to address the growing insecurity across the country. However, while the authorities have a legal responsibility to protect, ensure and secure the rights to life and property, any such responsibility ought to be discharged in conformity with human rights standards.”
“While we recognize the need for your government to take measures to ensure security and safety of the people in the country, we are seriously concerned that the decision to block people from making calls appears to go beyond the restrictions on the rights to freedom of expression, information, and association.”
“The rights to freedom of opinion and expression and access to information are protected under section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act.”
“These rights must be protected online as it is protected offline. Any restriction on these rights must be provided by law, be necessary in a democratic society and serve a legitimate aim.”
“The UN Human Rights Committee has stated that when a state party invokes a legitimate ground for restriction of human rights, it must demonstrate in specific and individualized fashion the precise nature of the threat, and the necessity and proportionality of the specific action taken, in particular by establishing a direct and immediate connection between the expression and the threat.”
“The decision to block over 72 million subscribers from making calls on their SIMs also amounts to an arbitrary or unlawful interference with their right to family life, and socio-economic rights, as it unnecessarily or disproportionately interferes with these fundamental human rights.”
“According to our information, your government recently directed telecommunication companies in the country to block over 72 million active telecommunication subscribers from making calls on their SIMs. The ‘order’ to the telecommunications companies was apparently to enforce compliance with the Federal Government’s National Identification Number-Subscriber Identity Module policy.”
“The policy effectively restricted outgoing calls on all unlinked lines, effective April 4, 2022.”
“We are concerned that the decision to block Nigerians from making calls will have a disproportionate chilling effect on vulnerable groups that rely on such peaceful means to communicate, and convey their opinions and views.”
“SERAP is concerned that the decision appears to be arbitrary, and lack any legal framework, independent and judicial oversight. This may allow authorities to act in an unfettered and potentially arbitrary or unlawful manner.”
“The decision to block people from making calls also does not appear to be the least intrusive instrument available to the government to achieve the desired results, i.e., the maintenance of national security and public safety.”
“The decision is also not proportionate to the perceived goal to be achieved, as it is not appropriately tailored to achieve its protective function in the least intrusive manner.”
“The mass disconnection of telephone subscribers from making calls is apparently without any legal justification. It is a form of collective punishment of the people affected by the decision.”
“Under international human rights, States including Nigeria ‘shall not engage in or condone any disruption of access to digital technologies for segments of the public or an entire population.’ States must refrain from cutting off access to telecommunications services.”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
10/4/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
April 8, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Congratulates David Mark at 74…Says He is an Agent of Peace
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) felicitates with former President of the Senate and a prominent member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of our great Party, our own dear Distinguished Senator David Mark GCON, as he attains the age of 74.
Senator Mark is an outstanding elder statesman, a brilliant military officer, excellent legislator, forthright administrator, courageous political leader and an agent of peace.
A beacon of hope, Senator Mark continually demonstrates his unalloyed commitment towards the unity, stability and development of our dear nation and remains a quintessence of humility in spite of his towering achievements as a state administrator, federal minister, two-term President of the Senate and now one of the leading figures of our nation.
Our Party is proud of Senator Mark’s leadership insight and capacity which he displayed not only as a state administrator, but also as a federal minister and particularly as the Senate President, when he led other patriotic Nigerians to save our nation from a constitutional crisis in 2010.
As one of the major pillars of the PDP, Senator Mark is unrelenting in his selfless contributions towards ensuring continuing peace and stability in our Party as we focus on our mission to Rescue and Rebuild our nation from the misrule of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The PDP family congratulates Senator Mark on this important occasion and prays God to grant him many more fulfilling years in the service of our Party, the PDP, our country, Nigeria and humanity at large.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
Northern leaders caution Soyinka on Omisore, APC
Stakeholders in the politics of the North-East geo-political zone on Thursday reacted to the spate of criticisms and outright falsehood against the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Iyiola Omisore, saying it was in bad faith.
The leaders described Omisore as a man of profound moral rectitude.
The leaders in a statement in Damaturu, capital of Yobe State, said influential Yoruba leaders should rise in condemnation of the uncomplimentary remarks on Omisore, crude propaganda and the obviously desperate moves to please his paymaster, a former South-South Governor and a major donor to the Nobel laureate’s organisation that twisted the minds of many young Nigerians most of whom are now adults regretting toeing the path of Prof Soyinka in their teenage years.
‘’The current posturing of Prof. Wole Soyinka is totally in bad taste and drips with malice .He is attacking Omisore on account of the inability of his benefactor to hijack the national leadership of the party, which he fears will deny the former South-South governor the opportunity to become the presidential candidate of the party without any positive track record of performance in governance.
The statement by the chairman of North-East Unity and Advancement Forum (NEUAF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa, commended the APC National Secretary for his invaluable contributions to Nigeria’s development and the challenging task of nation-building.
‘’Senator Omisore is a patriot, a thinker and a fighter for good causes’’
The statement cited Omisore for honesty, industry and patriotism.
The group also praised President Muhammadu Buhari and the esteemed members of the ruling party for electing Omisore the party’s National Secretary.
The statement emphasized Omisore’s rich and inspiring profile, meritorious services to the nation and humanity, peaceful disposition and gentility.
The leaders accused Soyinka of dabbling into politics, threatening thunder against Omisore, whilst encouraging mediocrity and protecting a former South-South governor for supporting him in the last ten years.
‘’We know the tactics of Wole Soyinka. He likes to grandstand as an independent man. Many believe he is speaking for the people, campaigning for good governance and quality leadership while the reverse is the case. There are many questions begging for answers in Soyinka’s relationship with the ex-South-South governor for anyone to take him seriously’’
‘’Wole Soyinka knows that his sponsor is a weakling who obviously finds himself where he doesn’t belong’’
They argued that Soyinka’s recent remark on Omisore was borne out of selfishness but warns that Nigeria is not for sale.
‘’The energy and vigour with which Soyinka undertook a fierce political crusade against the APC National Secretary left no one in doubt that his target was to divide the ruling party, draw Omisore into a controversy and then distract him’’
The leaders urged Soyinka to stop chasing shadows that would definitely not help the cause of a current minister and former governor in the South-South geo-political zone.
‘’We have watched in astonishment how Soyinka turned himself into such a burden to the former South-South governor’’
Wole Soyinka recently lashed out at Omisore on account of the choice of the ruling party to elect the former Osun State deputy governor its National Secretary.
‘’Wole Soyinka ought to be more decent with his choices of words in addressing Omisore and should not undermine the fact that his sycophancy might land him into trouble’’
PROFESSIONALS ARE THE LIVEWIRE OF ECONOMIES, WE WILL CONTINUE TO ENGAGE THEM, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI TO ICAN
President Muhammadu Buhari Friday in Abuja said professionals in various fields, especially accounting, provide the strength and framework for thriving economies, assuring that his administration will continue to engage experts to gain measurable and reliable results.
Receiving a delegation from Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) led by the President, Mrs. Comfort Olu Eyitayo, at the State House, President Buhari noted the contributions of the institute in ensuring probity, accountability and transparency, urging more diligence and professionalism.
“Having served as a military Head of State, and returned to politics to serve as a President, after losing three elections, I have seen the system of accountability in the country, and the mess to be cleaned up,’’ he said.
Describing ICAN as a “social stabilizer” of the economy, the President said he would go through reports and recommendations of the institute on inclusivity and strengthening the nation’s accounting system for growth.
In her remarks, the Minister of Finance, Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed, congratulated the President of ICAN and the new management.
“As a female President in a male dominated environment, you are an example to our young girls of what can be achieved through diligence and excellence,’’ she said.
The Minister noted that ICAN had, over many years, played a key role in the domestication of some international policies in the country, urging more interest in Finance Act implementation.
The President of ICAN appreciated President Buhari and his administration in adhering to best accounting principles and practices to secure and revive the economy, particularly reverting to the January to December budget calendar.
Eyitayo said the institute had established seven faculties to train accountants in specialized fields, which include forensic accounting.
According to the ICAN President, Forensic Accounting, working with security outfits, could be used to reduce the security challenges facing the country by tracking all monies used in committing crimes, and payments.
The ICAN President pledged to keep supporting the nation building efforts of President Buhari and his administration, especially in sensitization on monetary policies and taxation.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
April 8, 2022
NEW REVENUE FORMULA: PRESIDENT BUHARI RECEIVES REPORT, AWAITS CONSTITUTION REVIEW PROCESS
President Muhammadu Buhari says he will await the final outcome of the constitutional review process before presenting the report of the review of the vertical revenue allocation formula to the National Assembly as a Bill for enactment.
The President stated this on Thursday in Abuja while receiving the report by the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), led by Engr. Elias Mbam.
‘‘Ordinarily, I would have gone ahead to table this report before the National Assembly as a Bill for enactment.
‘‘However, since the review of the vertical revenue allocation formula is a function of the roles and responsibilities of the different tiers of government, I will await the final outcome of the constitutional review process, especially as some of the proposed amendments would have a bearing on the recommendations contained herein,’’ he said.
President Buhari listed some of the recommendations in the report as follows:
‘‘Establishing local government as a tier of government and the associated abrogation of the state/local government account; moving airports; fingerprints, identification and criminal records from the exclusive legislative list to the concurrent legislative list, empowering the RMAFC to enforce compliance with remittance of accruals into and disbursement of revenue from the Federation Account as well as streamlining the procedure for reviewing the revenue allocation formula.’’
The President assured members of the Commission that the Federal Government would immediately subject the report to its internal review and approval processes, while awaiting finalization of the efforts by the National Assembly.
According to the President this strategy, rather than issuing an Executive Modification order, as was done in 1992, is more in line with entrenching our democratic tenets.
He commended the RMAFC for a job painstakingly done, pledging his unwavering commitment and support to them in carrying out their constitutional mandates.
The President also thanked Nigerians, especially the State and Local Governments, for making their inputs through the broad stake-holder engagement processes that produced the report.
His words:
‘‘I am aware that the present revenue allocation formula has not been reviewed since the last exercise carried out in 1992.
‘‘Considering the changing dynamics of our political-economy, such as Privatisation, Deregulation, funding arrangement of Primary Education, Primary Health Care and the growing clamour for decentralisation among others; it is necessary that we take another look at our Revenue Sharing Formula, especially the vertical aspects that relate to the tiers of government.
‘‘This becomes more compelling as we need to reduce our infrastructural deficit, make more resources available for tackling insecurity, confront climate change and its associated global warming and make life more meaningful for our rapid growing population.’’
President Buhari said as an advocate for grassroots development, he has always remained committed to ensuring that all tiers of Government are treated fairly, equally and justly in the sharing of national resources.
‘‘I want to let you all know that I have keenly followed most of the discussions held in the geo-political consultative process and one thing that struck me clearly was the agreement that a review of our vertical revenue formula cannot and should not be an emotional or sentimental discussion and it cannot be done arbitrarily.
‘‘All over the world, revenue and resource allocation have always been a function of the level of responsibilities attached to the different components or tiers of government.
‘‘I am, therefore, happy to note that the discussions were held along these lines and rested squarely on roles and responsibilities as spelt out in the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
‘‘However, I also note that in reaching the final decisions at most of these engagements, not much emphasis was placed on the fact that the Second Schedule of the Nigerian constitution contains Sixty Eight (68) items on the Exclusive Legislative List and the remaining Thirty (30) items on the Concurrent List requiring both the Federal and State Government to address’’.
President Buhari, therefore, declared that for the nation to have a lasting review of the present revenue allocation formula, there must first be an agreement on the responsibilities to be carried out by all the tiers of Government.
In particular, he noted that the proposal seeks a 3.33% reduction in the current Federal Government allocation and on the other hand an increase of 3.07% and .44% for the States and Local Governments on the other hand.
He added that with regards to the Special Funds, the report by the RMAFC proposed an increase of .2% for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and a decrease of .38% for Development of Natural Resources.
The President recounted that the Federal Government also made its input into the process of reviewing the vertical revenue allocation formula based on existing constitutional provisions for roles and responsibilities for the different tiers of government.
‘‘We must note the increasing visibility in Sub-national level responsibilities due to weaknesses at that level, for example: Primary Health Care; Basic Primary Education; Levels of insecurity, and; Increased remittances to State and Local Governments through the Value Added Tax sharing formula, where the Federal Government has only 15% and the States and Local Government share 50% and 35% respectively,’’ he said.
In his remarks, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, said the RMAFC followed due process in undertaking the exercise, and sought the opinion of the Federal Government before finalizing the report.
Giving a synopsis of the report, Mustapha said that it was in four volumes, including a summary in the main report.
‘‘Volume 1 contains the various memoranda submitted by the Federal and State Governments as well as the FCT. Volume 2 details the presentation from the academia, civil society, professional bodies, traditional rulers, individuals, as well as women and youth council.
‘‘To complete the inclusiveness of the stakeholder participatory processes adopted, Volume 3 is a research that captures the body of knowledge that supported the review while Volume 4 is a further distillation of submissions by the State and Local Governments as well as NGOs and Area Councils of the FCT,’’ he said.
Also speaking, Mbam said the leading philosophy behind the proposed review was guided ‘‘by the need for distributive justice, equity and fairness as enshrined in relevant Sections of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).’’
He added that the principles took into cognizance the indivisibility of the country, public opinion and weighted Constitutional responsibilities and functions of the three levels of Government.
He announced that the proposed vertical revenue allocation formula advised 45.17 per cent for the Federal Government, 29.79 per cent for State Governments and 21.04 per cent for the Local Governments.
Under Special Funds, he said, the Report by the Commission recommended 1.0 per cent for Ecology, 0.5 per cent for Stabilisation, 1.3 per cent for Development of Natural Resources and 1.2 per cent for the FCT.
In arriving at the new vertical revenue allocation formula, Mbam told the President the commission had wide consultation with major stakeholders, public hearing in all the geo-political zones, administered questionnaires and studied some other Federations with similar fiscal arrangements like Nigeria to draw useful lessons from their experiences.
According to the RMAFC chairman, the Commission also visited all the 36 States and the FCT, the 774 Local Government Areas to sensitize and obtain inputs from stakeholders.
He added that literature reviews were conducted on revenue allocation formula in Nigeria dating back to pre-independence period while the Commission received memoranda from the public sectors, individuals and private institutions across the country.
Explaining the major reasons for the exercise, Mbam noted that since the last review was conducted in 1992, 29 years ago, the political structure of the country has changed with the creation of six additional States in 1996, which brought the number of States to 36.
Correspondingly, he said, the number of local governments councils also increased from 589 to 774.
‘‘There have been considerable changes arising from the policy reforms that altered the relative share of responsibilities of the various tiers of Government such as deregulation, privatization and the lingering controversies over funding of primary education, primary healthcare,’’ he said.
The RMAFC chairman noted that while Section 32(b), Part 1 of Third Schedule of the 1999 Constitution 9 (as amended) empowers the Commission to review from time to time the revenue allocation formulae; the inadequate and decaying infrastructure, as well as heightened widespread internal security challenges across the country also necessitated the exercise, among others.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
April 7, 2022
April 7, 2022
Press Statement
2023: PDP Adjusts Timetable, Announces Further Extension of Sales of Nomination Forms
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has further extended the closing dates for the purchase and submission of Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms for the 2023 general elections.
Under the new timelines, the last day for the purchase of all forms has been extended to Thursday, April 14, 2022 while the last day for the submission of all Forms has been extended to April 17, 2022.
Under the adjusted timetable, the following dates have been fixed for screening of aspirants for various positions;
State House of Assembly: April 19, 2022,
National Assembly: April 20, 2022
Governorship: April 21, 2022
Presidential: April 25, 2022
Screening Appeals are scheduled as follows;
State House of Assembly: April 21, 2022,
National Assembly: April 22, 2022
Governorship: April 26, 2022
Presidential: April 27, 2022
Please note that all duly completed State Assembly Forms are to be submitted at the various States Secretariat of the Party.
All aspirants, critical stakeholders and party members are to be guided accordingly.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PRESS RELEASE
LAGOS LEADS IN TECHNOLOGY START-UP, DEVELOPMENT IN WEST AFRICA, SAYS SANWO-OLU
- As Governor launches new Mainone/MDXI data centre
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday said the State is leading in technology start-up in West Africa and in technology development and e-commerce.
He said his administration would continue to support and design policies to help in creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive in Lagos State.
Governor Sanwo-Olu made the statement during the launch of Mainone/MDXI new data centre. The company, which is a subsidiary of Equinox Technology, is a cable and communication services company.
He noted that with job creation, knowledge and skills would be acquired by those employed in the facility and they would be trained so that they could compete with their counterparts on a global level all over the world.
“Lagos is the heartbeat and commercial nerve centre of the country, therefore, we will continue to support investors and create an enabling environment for their businesses to flourish.
“Lagos remains in the tech global market and in the map of the global space as a destination of choice where investors, tech experts see as a place to be. Therefore, for businesses to thrive, with international and local businesses to do well, we need to deliberately listen to their needs, know how government can help in terms of policies to make them thrive.
“This investment is putting Lagos on a global market and likewise providing jobs for the teeming youths,” the governor said.
Speaking further on his administration’s commitment to technology and innovation, Governor Sanwo-Olu disclosed that: “In recent years, Lagos has become the leading destination for technology start-up investments on the African continent. In addition to being the largest sub-national economy in Africa, Lagos is now also Africa’s Start-up Capital.
“We are home to three Fintech Unicorns – Paystack, Flutterwave and Interswitch, among many other very successful, globally recognized Start-ups. We are also a leading global city in e-commerce and retail technology, transportation technology and education technology, according to the Global Startup Ecosystem Index.
“On our part as Government, we are ensuring that our policies are designed to support private investment and create unending opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors. We are also putting our skin in the game. We have reached advanced stages of the rollout of 3,000km of terrestrial fibre across the State. I’m aware that MainOne also has a similar network of over a thousand kilometers, part of which is in Lagos.
“We are developing a K.I.T.E Cluster/Campus in Yaba, Lagos, on 22,000 square meters of land, in partnership with the private sector. K stands for Knowledge, I for Innovation, T for Technology and E for Entrepreneurship. We have just established a new University, the Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUTECH), focused on building capacity in science, technology, and innovation in Lagos State.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State is very proud of the Managing Director of Mainone/MDXI, Ms. Funke Opeke and what she has achieved with MainOne over the last 12 years, adding that “Entrepreneurs like Ms. Opeke are solid proof of what Nigeria and Nigerians can achieve when we set our minds to it and pursue business dreams that are ambitious and world changing.”
Speaking earlier, Opeke assured that with the presence of Mainone/MDXI facility in Lagos and Abuja, they planned to replicate and extend such to Port-Harcourt and other parts of the country.
She said the new facility is a hub of digital economy in West Africa, noting that Mainone/MDXI landed its first Marine cable in Lagos and opened its first data center also in Lagos and West Africa.
“The facility will further help in boosting development especially in areas of data gathering and content creation. All telecommunications companies are connected to the facility, lots of major institutions are providing critical services all over west Africa with this facility,” she said.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
06 APRIL 2022
PRESS RELEASE
WE’LL BE CREATIVE IN THE FINANCIAL MODEL FOR LAGOS, SAYS SANWO-OLU
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday said his administration would be creative in its financing model to provide the required funds to deliver dividends of democracy to the people of the State.
He made the statement while receiving the management team of FMDQ Group Plc and FSD Africa, who paid him a courtesy visit at Lagos House, Marina. The FMDQ Group Plc was led by its CEO, Bola Onadele Koko, while FSD Africa was led by its CEO, Mark Napier.
Speaking at the event, which was also attended by the British Deputy High Commissioner, Ben Liewelyn-Jones and Head, Economic Development, FCDO of the British High Commission, Governor Sanwo-Olu said he would continue to push until he gets the desired results for Lagos and the residents of the State.
“We need to look for other sources of financing. We need to be very creative in our financing model. The population is huge and there is pressure on us to meet up with some of our very big and expanded economy.
“We are truly pushing ourselves in various areas. I am personally excited when I know and see that our team and your team are driving toward a convergence that can better the lots of our citizens. We will continue to push until we get the desired result,” the Governor said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the Lagos State Green Bond Issuance Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) the State Government signed with FMDQ Group and Financial Sector Deepening (FSD) Africa on Tuesday, September 14, 2021, urged all partners to leverage the partnership for full benefits on investments, adding that the relationship should be continuous and not a one-off.
In a related development, Governor Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday said the State Government will work with consulting engineering and architectural firms to prevent the collapse of buildings in the State.
He made the statement during a courtesy visit by the Local Organising Committee (LOC) Nigeria of the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC) at Lagos House Marina.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who reiterated his administration’s commitment to the provision of infrastructure for Lagos residents, said infrastructure is one of the ways in which societal problems can be solved. “It is something that we are looking holistically at believing that we want to improve the lots of our citizens given the political chance that God has given us.”
He said the State Government is in the process of identifying consulting engineering and architectural firms to help with monitoring building construction. “We believe that structural engineers and others can help by doing an independent assessment to ensure that everybody adheres to the rules. And the government can continue to do oversight function working with competent, capable consulting engineering and architectural firms so that we can monitor the city and prevent the collapse of a building.”
The President of the Association for Consulting Engineering in Nigeria (ACEN), Engr. Ajibade Oke, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration in the area of infrastructure. “The infrastructure in Lagos is fantastic. Look at the blue and red line rail, the BRTs, the flyover, bridges and other amenities that we are having in Lagos. We are even talking about Fourth Mainland Bridge. We thank God for the people that are managing Lagos State,” he said.
Also speaking, the Chairman, Local Organising Committee of FIDIC for the Africa 2022 Conference and past President of the Association for Consulting Engineering in Nigeria (ACEN), Engr. Charles Akindayomi, appealed for the Lagos State Government’s support of the conference which is expected to be attended by about 250 delegates from different parts of the world, noting that the support will give the State an opportunity to display the rich culture and infrastructure development to the rest of Africa.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
05 APRIL 2022
JULIUS BERGER INCREASES CSR PROJECTS, BUILDS WATER BOREHOLES AND TOILETS FOR SCHOOLS AT ABUJA-KANO ROAD PROJECT CORRIDOR
In continuation of its determination to touch the lives of communities and strong commitment’s to its Corporate Social Responsibility in its operational sites, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has again donated boreholes and toilets to schools on its Abuja-Kano Road Project corridor.
At Government Girls Secondary School, Yadakwari, the excitement that enveloped the entire school made up of over 800 students caught up with the teachers and community leaders who also sang praises of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc “for its very healthy sense of Corporate Social Responsibility by which it gives back to benefit its host communities.”
After a brief introduction by the Leader of Julius Berger CSR team at the event, Engr. Yusuf Ibrahim, the Principal of the school, Wasila Shuaibu, who appreciated the gesture stated: “We are very pleased with the outstanding contributions made by Julius Berger. We now have borehole and toilets in our school premises. To others, it might be a small one, but to us here at Government Girl’s Secondary School, it is a very big move made by the company. On behalf of the Management and students, we say a very big thank you to the construction giant for finally putting smiles on our faces.”
The Village Head of Yadakwari, Mohammed Daniya Ibrahim, who was also present at the event said, “Good water has been one major problem of the Community and I’m extremely grateful to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for extending its effort to provide us with good water that will not just benefit the school, but the Community at large. Now, we can comfortably have good water to take home to our children and families.”
At the Government Junior Secondary School Co-exist, Tariwa, Kano State, it was also commendation galore for Julius Berger’s CSR efforts even as students and National Youth Corp Members danced and sang praises to Julius Berger, displaying appreciation placards.
The Head Teacher of the school, Mallam Iliyasu Ibrahim, was effusively full with thanks and prayers for Julius Berger. “…on behalf of the Staff, Parents and the Pupils of Government Junior Secondary School, Tariwa, I say thank you for what you have done for us, and we pray that God in His infinite mercies bless you richly. The company shall grow higher and God’s favour will not elude you.” An excited Corp member, Mr. James Dantata, said, “we really love the work done here by Julius Berger, the company has a way of doing its Corporate Social Responsibility often and taken it to the rural areas as well. Thank you for bringing quality water to us here. We will also like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Management of Julius Berger, please accept our sincere appreciation and thank you for your kind CSR gesture.”
The Representative of the Village Head of Tariwa, Ado Lawal, who was also present at the event said, “The Village Head extends his gratitude to the management of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for the newly constructed borehole and toilets. Words won’t be able to show how happy we feel. I pray God rewards the company and continuously bless the works of their hands. Once again, Thank You.”
The Julius Berger delegation to the event was led by the AKR Project Coordinator, Engr. Yusuf Ibrahim. Other JBN Officials included, Content Writer, Corporate Communications, Michael Ashofor; and Press Relations Officer, Olivia Uzoma.
Press Statement
RIWAMA Explains Reasons Why Wastes Would Be Noticed in Some Areas in Port Harcourt today
…Says RIWAMA Has Challenges With Some Of Its Dumpsites
The Rivers State Waste Management Agency, (RIWAMA), has explained why wastes would be noticed today, Saturday, April 9, 2022 in some areas of Port Harcourt, the State capital and its environs.
According to the Agency, some of its dumpsites broke down following a sudden downpour last night which affected some of the Agency’s equipments.
The Agency assures that efforts are being made to put the affected dumpsites back to use, so as to commence full utilization of the affected dumpsites.
Accordingly, evacuation of wastes will be delayed today, Saturday, April 9, 2022 due to the breakdown of the dumpsites, occasioned by a sudden downpour last night.
The Agency therefore appealed to residents in Port Harcourt and its environs especially from the affected areas where wastes would be noticed to bear with the Agency as everything humanly possible is being done to ensure that the dumpsites are put back to use without delay and the wastes evacuated.
The Agency further called on residents in the affected areas to observe sanitary decorum and not to take undue advantage of the situation to dump their refuse indiscriminately.
The Agency appealed for their understanding.
Jerry Needam
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to
Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA).
Saturday, April 9, 2022.
PRESIDENT BUHARI HAILS FORMER OGUN STATE GOVERNOR, OTUNBA GBENGA DANIEL AT 66
President Muhammadu Buhari joins the leadership and members of All Progressives Congress (APC) in congratulating Otunba Gbenga Daniel, former Governor of Ogun State, on his 66th birthday, April 6, 2022, celebrating the businessman, democrat and party stalwart for his dedication to nation building.
The President rejoices with family members, friends and associates, both in business and politics, of the former governor, who cut his teeth early in politics by being among the Committee of Friends of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and joining the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) in the 70’s as a student.
President Buhari notes the inspiring role Otunba Daniel has played in the political and economic development of the country, setting up engineering and hospitality outfits that employ and train the youth in entrepreneurship, establishing a Political Leadership Academy (POLA) for grooming young people in leadership and governance, and the Gateway Front Foundation for philanthropy.
As the Otunba of Egba and Ijebu clans marks his 66th birthday, the President commends his courage, diligence and visionary leadership style, which has translated into better lives for many, and supported major historic transitions, like return to civilian rule in 1999.
President Buhari prays for the wellbeing of the former governor and his family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
April 5, 2022