Nigerians in the North East will, in the coming months, witness a change from the protracted insurgency to peace and development in their respective communities, President Muhammadu Buhari pledged on Wednesday in Abuja.
The President spoke at the inauguration of the Presidential Committee on the Repatriation, Return and Resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the North-East of Nigeria, which preceded the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting.
He announced that his administration is embarking on a revised approach to addressing the 13-year conflict and insurgency in the region and will not relent in efforts towards a return to peace and normalcy.
”At the advent of this administration in 2015, I pledged to Nigerians that I will restore peace in the North East and return it to the path of development and growth. I remain committed to this promise.
”To the people of the North-East, particularly the children and future of the North-East, we will never forget you and your courage, sacrifice and endurance has been exemplary.
”I pledge to you that in the coming months you will begin to witness a shift away from a protracted insurgency to peace building, stabilization, and ultimately development in your respective communities as we embark on a revised approach to addressing this conflict- A Return to Normalcy,” he said.
On the terms of Reference for the Committee, the President emphasized that it entails a shift from managing the situation to activating a permanent solution for effective and practicable restoration.
He said the Committee, among others, is expected to develop a concise three-year action plan by the end of March 2022 that incorporates national and state level plans, providing a clear pathway for the restoration of peace and development in the North East.
The Committee, he said, will also develop and implement a phased plan for the repatriation, returns, resettlement of IDPs and restoration of livelihoods, incorporating global best practices that give dignity to the affected populations.
According to the President, they will also be responsible for the development and implementation of a coordinated peace building and reconciliation programme that is culturally appropriate and community driven.
The Committee is also saddled with the responsibility of strengthening collaboration with key donors, development partners and private sector organisations that are critical to the mobilisation of resources and implementation of programmes.
President Buhari charged the Committee members to adopt the guiding principles of accountability, delineation of duty and community-driven methods to address issues.
”Members will dedicate more time to the conduct of field visits to regularly engage with state government, communities and key stakeholders.
”Due to prevailing fiscal constraints, Ministries, Departments and Agencies will utilise existing budgetary resources and repurpose funds to programmes approved under this initiative,” he said.
President Buhari directed the committee to submit monthly progress report whilst the first progress review meeting will be held in the first week of March 2022.
Underscoring the enormous task ahead of the Committee, the President said:
”History beckons and Nigeria calls on you to be the team that finally charts this new path to the restoration of sustainable progress in the North East and I strongly believe this could lead to the birthing of a template for addressing insurgency and instability in other parts of our country and across the world.
”Failure to deliver on this task you have been assigned is not an option.”
The President also used the occasion to commend Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, who was present at the inauguration with his Gombe counterpart, Inuwa Yahaya, for his unparalleled commitment to his people and exemplary leadership.
The President also expressed appreciation to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) for support in the area of coordination of humanitarian actors and UNDP regional stabilisation facility, which is providing support in the area of security and the rule of law.
The members of the Presidential Committee on the Repatriation, Return and Resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the North-East are:
The Ministers of Finance, Budget & National Planning; Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice; Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management & Social Development; Interior; Foreign Affairs and Defence.
Others are the National Security Adviser, Inspector- General of Police, Chief of Defence Staff, Director General, State Security, Director-General, National Intelligence Agency, Director-General, North-East Development Commission, Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants & Internally Displaced Persons, Director-General, National Emergency Management Agency and Chief of Defence Intelligence.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
February 2, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH MURRAY-BRUCE FAMILY ON MOTHER’S DEATH
President Muhammadu Buhari extends heartfelt condolences to Murray-Bruce family on the passing of their mother and matriarch, Mama Margaret Murray-Bruce, aged 95.
The President pays tribute to the peace loving and deeply religious woman who invested so much of her God given resources and talent in developing people, adopting many children, inspiring them to face life’s challenges with determination, optimism and joy.
The President urges Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, Founder Silverbird Group, Francis Murray-Bruce, and Mr Guy Murray-Bruce, President, Silverbird Group and Chairman, Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria (IBAN) and other members of the Murray-Bruce family to find inspiration from Mama’s legacy, particularly her personal example of decency and always looking out for the best in others.
President Buhari prays for repose of the soul of the departed and comfort for the loved ones that mourn.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
February 2, 2022
AKURE REPS BYE-ELECTION: I HAVE NO PREFERRED CANDIDATE, GOV AKEREDOLU TELLS DELEGATES
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, on Tuesday assured delegates participating in today’s primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) that he has no preferred candidate among the aspirants jostling for the ticket of the APC for the Akure federal constituency bye-election.
Governor Akeredolu, who declared that he is not supporting anybody in the primary election, encouraged all delegates to vote according to their conscience.
The Governor addressed the delegates at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Akure, alongside the seven aspirants and members of the election committee led by deputy Governor of Anambra State, Nkem Okeke.
Arakunrin Akeredolu urged the delegates to conduct themselves in peaceful manner to sustain the existing peace in the state and the party.
He said:”I have said it over and over again that I have no candidate. I’m supporting nobody, go and vote according to your conscience.”
The Governor warned the delegates against any form of violence , stressing that they should all cast their votes in peaceful manner.
He informed the delegates that the election 8-member committee has assured of level playing ground, adding that they will be free and fair to everyone.
Governor Akeredolu explained that the APC had conducted several primaries in the state including governorship primary that produced him without any rancour, while urging the delegates to ensure the bye-election primary is violence free.
The Governor disclosed that whoever emerges as candidate of the party during the primary would be supported by all to ensure overwhelming victory at poll.
He said he is confident that APC would emerge victorious at the February 26, 2022 bye-election.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
Febuary 1, 2022.
February 1, 2022
Gbajabiamila commiserates with Shitta-Bey Family of Lagos over death of Former State Lawmaker
The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila has commiserated the Shitta-Bey family of Surulere, Lagos over the demise of a former member of the Lagos State House of Assembly who once represented Surulere 1, Hon. Lateef Shitta-Bey.
Gbajabiamila said Shitta-Bey, who represented Surulere Constituency 1 from 2003 to 2007, worked tirelessly for his people.
The Speaker recalled how Shitta-Bey contributed immensely to the development of his constituency, noting that he was one politician worthy of emulation.
He sent his condolences to the people of Surulere Constituency 1, especially the Shitta-Bey family, for the loss.
Speaker Gbajabiamila prayed Allah to reward the late Lateef Shitta-Bey with Jannatul Firdaus.
January 30, 2022
Press Statement
PDP Accuses Gov. Umahi of Unleashing Terror on Opposition in Ebonyi State
…Demands Immediate Release of State Publicity Secretary
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) accuses Ebonyi State Governor, Engr. Dave Umahi, of unleashing terror on innocent Nigerians, particularly opposition PDP members and other dissenting voices in Ebonyi State.
The PDP is alarmed by reports that Governor Umahi is using a heavily armed killer squad, currently disguising under the “Ebube Agu” security outfit, as a political weapon to arrest, attack and inflict grievous bodily harm on Nigerians and particularly PDP members in Ebonyi State.
Since Governor Umahi made the error in his devastating adventure of moving from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC) where he is unrecognized and frustrated, he has reportedly resorted to terrorizing innocent Nigerians, especially PDP members in a desperate bid to create fear, panic and siege mentality on citizens of Ebonyi State as a prelude to rigging the 2023 general elections.
The PDP invites Nigerians to note how Governor Umahi instigated the illegal arrest of the Ebonyi State Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Nwoba Chika Nwoba, and kept him in detention without justification on the strength of a draconian law that did not pass through the established due process of lawmaking.
Just recently, a prominent member of the PDP and former member the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Linus Abaa Okorie, was declared wanted by Governor Umahi without any accusation or charges levelled against him.
Our Party vehemently rejects such violation of Fundamental Human Rights going on in Ebonyi State and calls on Nigerians to hold Governor Umahi and the APC responsible for acts of violence and terrorism in Ebony State.
The PDP also calls for the immediate and unconditional release of our State Publicity Secretary in Ebonyi State as well as other innocent Nigerians reportedly detained in various facilities in the State.
As a Party, we urge President Muhammadu Buhari, the National Security Adviser and the Police High Command to immediately step into the situation which is a serious threat to the security of Ebonyi State in particular and that of the nation in general.
This is because any breakdown of law and order in Ebonyi State will have a ripple effect on the fragile security situation in the entire South East region of the country and beyond.
Governor Umahi must be called to order. He must learn to live with the consequences of his ill-advised decision. He committed a political suicide by joining a party of “political bandits” and “warlords” where he has no future and should not vent his frustration on other Nigerians.
In any case, the PDP wants Governor Umahi and the APC to know that no amount of intimidations, harassments, threats and attacks will bend the will of the people in their resolve to vote out the APC in 2023.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
ILLEGAL CRUDE OIL REFINERIES RUINING OUR HEALTH, NATIONAL ECONOMY- WIKE
*Tells Chief of Defence Staff, General Irabor to support fight, punish culpable officers
Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike says illegal crude oil refinery operators are causing great health hazard to residents in the State and destroying the national economy, which his administration will not tolerate.
Governor Wike made the declaration when he received on courtesy visit, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor on Friday at Government House in Port Harcourt.
The Governor told the Chief of Defence Staff the importance of the war against illegal crude oil refinery activities because the proceeds from the oil and gas sector sustain the country.
“You and I know that one product we have today that has kept this country going is oil and gas, which I will say is the main source of our revenue in this country today.
“And so, we must as a people, as a government, it doesn’t matter whichever faction you may be or whichever divide you may be, or you may find yourself. What is important you must defend any of our national assets.”
Governor Wike assured that his administration will not spare any meaningful measure that can be deployed to stem illegal crude oil refinery activities in the State.
He said those engaged in the criminal activities need to ask themselves about the kind of money they are making by sabotaging the national economy.
“I will do anything within my powers to see that it is put to stop. I owe it as a duty, first by making sure that government is not losing revenue.
“Whenever we lose national revenue it trickles down. It affects us at the State and Local Government levels. So, that is on the revenue aspect of it.”
The Rivers State Governor pointed to the issues of health, occasioned by soot, that results from the criminal activities.
“I am willing to fight it and will continue to fight it. Some people are trying to politicise it, that you are doing it against certain ethnic group. That can’t change me, it doesn’t matter. ”
The governor said in his meeting with traditional rulers and other stakeholders, he had warned that no body indicted as operator of illegal refinery will escape the full wrath of the law.
Governor Wike assured that his administration is ready to give the security agencies necessary logistics support as they join with the State to fight the menace.
He stated that some major sites have been identified and what is required is for adequate security protection to be given to all those assigned to destroy the sites.
“So, I am going to give them every support. I have declared this fight as the war against terrorism. I will treat them (operators of illegal refineries) worst than Boko Haram, because they are stealing from our economy and killing our people.”
Governor Wike told the Chief of Defence Staff to give his officers and men final directives to join hands with the Rivers State Government in the fight of illegal oil bunkering in order to stem further destruction of the environment and the national economy.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor informed that he was in Port Harcourt as part of tour of military formations in the Niger Delta to assess security strategies and to also motivate officers for greater efficiency.
General Irabor expressed delight over the audacity shown by Governor Wike in championing the fight against illegal crude oil refinery activities that have been a great threat to the oil and gas Industry.
He said the military had long desired such government focused strategy towards the security of oil and gas asset and hoped that other governors will emulate it, which will enhance their security operations.
Kelvin Ebiri
Special Assistant Media to the Rivers State Governor
January 28, 2022.
January, 31 2022
Press Statement
PDP Constitutes Ekiti State Post-Primary Reconciliation Committee
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has constituted a Post-Primary Reconciliation Committee (PPRC) for Ekiti State.
The Committee is charged with the sole mandate of reconciling all our stakeholders in Ekiti State including all aspirants in the just concluded Governorship Primary Election in the State.
This is in line with the commitment of the NWC to ensure an amicable resolution of all issues as our Party sets for a victorious governorship election in Ekiti State.
The members of the Committee are as follows:
- H.E. Sen. David A. Mark (GCON) – Chairman
- H.E. Engr. Seyi Makinde – Co-Chairman
- H.E. Sen. Dr. Adolphus Wabara, GCON – Member
- Sen. Mrs. Zainab Kure – Member
- Dr. Prince Charles Akitoye – Member
- Sergeant Awuse – Member
- Col. Bala Mande – Member
- Chief Shuaibu Oyedokun – Member
- Sen. Sanusi Daggash – Secretary
The NWC urges all aspirants, leaders, critical stakeholders of our Party in Ekiti State to remain focused on the success of the PDP in the forthcoming governorship election in the State.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
PRESIDENT BUHARI CONDOLES WITH SENATOR FOLARIN ON LOSS OF WIFE, ANGELA
President Muhammadu Buhari extends heartfelt condolences to Senator Teslim Folarin, the lawmaker representing Oyo Central senatorial district, his children, family members, and friends who mourn the passing of the Senator’s wife, Chief (Barr.) Angela Nwaka Folarin.
The President’s prayers and thoughts are with the Folarins as they grieve the departure of a beloved wife and mother, urging them to find solace and strength in the truth that the Almighty God is always with us through the good and difficult seasons of life.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 28, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI COMMISERATES WITH INNOSON ON MOTHER’S DEATH
President Muhammadu Buhari extends heartfelt condolences to Chief Innocent Chukwuma, Chairman/CEO of Innoson Group of Companies Limited, on the passing of his mother, Mama Martina Chukwuma, aged 101.
The President joins the Chukwuma family, relatives, and the people of Nnewi in Anambra State in honouring the life of a matriarch, who birthed, trained, nurtured and prayed for the well-being of all her children, including a very successful entrepreneur, whose successes in business is recognised worldwide.
As the funeral ceremonies of Mama Martina begin, the President urges members of the Chukwuma family and all that honour her memory to remember that the departed embodied the scriptural truth that those that watch over the affairs of their household, do not eat the bread of idleness.
The President prays that the peaceful circumstances of the homecoming of the centenarian to her Maker will bring divine comfort and solace to her family and those that mourn.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 30, 2022
NEXT ADMINISTRATION WILL INHERIT A STABLE DEMOCRACY, REVAMPED SECURITY FORCES, PRESIDENT BUHARI PLEDGES
President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday in Abuja pledged his commitment to hand over a strong repositioned agriculture-led, diversified home-grown economy, stable democracy and revamped armed and security forces to the next Administration.
Speaking at a dinner in honour of the 2022 Committee of Business, Political, Media and Civil Society Leaders, the President said he was looking forward to completing his tenure in 2023, leaving a legacy for a united, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria with 24 years of uninterrupted democracy.
Assuring Nigerians that his administration will finish strong in the last lap of his tenure, the President said:
”I am gradually entering my final year in office. It is a period I intend to spend not only on consolidating on the achievements of the past seven years but also to leave a legacy for a united, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria.
”I take this initiative to mean that you all intend to collaborate with this administration in that direction.
”For those among you who are politicians, you must look beyond gaining power to how you can leverage public positions in the process of societal change. To the businessmen and women among you, there is great glory in public service.
”The question that should be uppermost always is: How do we leverage our business endowment for the greater good of our country?
”I am delighted that members of the Nigerian elite have woken up to the fact that the task of changing this society is a task for all of us, whether we are in the private or public sector. Knowing that, we have enormous challenges as a nation, but they are not beyond our capacity to overcome if we embrace a new approach.
”We cannot retreat to our ethnic cocoons, nor can we continue to seek solace in our past. We must champion the idea of a Nigeria where every citizen would be proud to call their own. That is the charge before you.”
Expressing delight on the new consciousness by the Nigerian elites to work together with the political class and civil society to build a better Nigeria, President Buhari noted that building consensus around issues of the economy, national security, governance, and such other critical areas of national life is a sure path to the future we seek to build.
”As we all know, I have been very critical of the Nigerian elites, essentially because some of us have not always demonstrated that we can rise above personal gain, political partisanship as well as ethnic and religious differences when the situation demands that we all speak and or act as one in the interest of our country.
”There are also many among our elites for whom profit remains the only motivation for any and every enterprise.
”But now, I feel heartened that a more collaborative social enterprise model for resolving our common challenges is being forged.
”I must commend this initiative and its conveners. This is the kind of spirit I have always advocated because it is what we need at this time as we seek to build our society for peace, security and prosperity through dialogue while narrowing the gap between rich and poor.”
On the activities of the Committee, the President acknowledged that he was aware that attendance at their inaugural meeting on Sunday cut across a broad section of the society in the public, private sectors, civil society, and the youth.
The President lauded the group for rising above all ethnic and religious divides for the common good, describing the feat as ‘‘fantastic’’.
The President, who said he had wished the group had convened earlier, advised them to try and accommodate a few more interests in their next meeting as they take a ”deeper dive into our national challenges and proffer workable and sustainable solutions for the near, medium, and long term.”
”It is our desire to finish strong in the next 16 months and ensure all hands are on deck for the last lap. We are doubling our efforts against all forms of insecurity, equipping our armed forces and strengthening the police.
”We are determined to continue the war against corruption and fight poverty, we remain focused on building an all-inclusive economic opportunity for all citizens. ”
The President told the meeting that despite the enormous problems inherited when he assumed office almost seven years ago, he can look back with satisfaction that this administration has kept faith with the people and has done well even amid dwindling resources for reasons that are well beyond our control.
”But we probably would have fared even better if we secured the support of most of you that are here today, know that while government comes and goes, the country must remain and thrive.”
President Buhari used the occasion to wish politicians, at the dinner, interested in elective positions in the 2023 polls the best, advising that ”there is nothing better than experience in leadership.”
Responding to concerns raised by Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State on the resurgence of military takeovers in Mali, Guinea and Burkina Faso in August 2020, September 2021 and January 2022, respectively, the President said he strongly believes that ‘‘Nigeria has passed through that stage for good.’’
On the political situation in some West African countries, Fayemi said:
”We believe Nigeria has a manifest destiny to protect democracy not just in Nigeria but also in our region. But in doing that we must ensure that our politicians adhere strictly to constitutional principles and I am happy that our President’s position on leaders seeking third term is well known.”
Giving further insight on the workings of the Committee, Governor Fayemi said Nigerians who have benefitted from the country in good time, serving in different capacities, have a duty to support the country.
“What the Committee has tried to do is to develop an elite consensus on security and economy, ” he said.
He said the Committee would take advantage of the President’s consistent leadership, relentless passion and patriotism to ensure a seamless transition, while ensuring that the achievements of this administration are sustained and followed through for the benefit of the country.
“Here we have PDP and APC chieftains and we hope by the time we finish this work, what we will present to the President is void of partisan colorations. It is from people who want Nigerians to succeed.”
The Convener of the Group and Chairman of THISDAY/ARISE Media Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena said with Nigeria facing a ”historic transition like no other”, and with crisis across Africa and at home, the 2022 Committee emerged to ”defend the national interest.”
”The 2022 Committee was put together to defend Nigeria in a time of crisis and in a time of transition, we must defend the national interest,’’ he said, noting that membership of the group has been carefully selected from the business community, investors, governors, security sector and elder statesmen.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
January 31, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI LAUNCHES N62 BILLION HIV TRUST FUND AS NIGERIA TARGETS ELIMINATION OF MOTHER-TO-CHILD TRANSMISSION BY 2030
President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday in Abuja launched a N62 billion trust fund to help Nigeria end AIDS as a public health threat and place more people living with HIV on treatment annually.
Speaking at the launch of the HIV Trust Fund of Nigeria (HTFN), the President pledged that his administration would continue to prioritize health interventions to address killer diseases and public health emergencies.
”At the last United Nations General Assembly High Level Meeting on HIV/AIDS, I made a call for a renewed global action to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Africa.
”Ending AIDS as a public health threat in Nigeria will require increased domestic funding. We have continued to make good our commitment of placing more people living with HIV on treatment annually using national resources.
”However, strong domestic resource mobilization with an enduring partnership and shared responsibility is required to sustain the response to HIV and other emerging public health emergencies,” he said.
President Buhari noted that Nigeria’s purposeful partnership with the private sector in the response to COVID 19 pandemic had provided a readily available financing solution to leverage on to sustain the HIV response.
He commended the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) and the Nigeria Business Coalition Against AIDS for their efforts in establishing the HIV Trust Fund of Nigeria to secure a generation of babies free of HIV.
He also expressed delight with the attendance in person of notable global key players in HIV response and from the private sector at the event and the pledges made.
”Going forward, I hope The HIV Trust Fund of Nigeria will galvanize more of the private sector and other partners to surpass the target of Sixty-Two Billion Naira in the next five years,” he added.
In his remarks, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha announced that since 2005 about 6.2 billion dollars has been spent on HIV response in Nigeria.
”About 80 per cent of the funds were contributed by external donors, mainly the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The Private Sector contributed 0.1 per cent to 2 per cent of total funds with the rest of funds provided by the Nigerian government.”
Acknowledging NACA’s efforts to promote resource mobilisation to complement existing external support, Mustapha said the Federal Government has sustained the treatment and financing of 50,000 PLHIV annually.
He said the launch of the HTFN will guarantee funding from the private sector-led resources for HIV interventions especially for the elimination of the Mother-to-Child transmission of the virus.
”Since 2005, about 6.2 billion dollars has been spent on HIV response in Nigeria about 80 per cent of the funds were contributed by external donors mainly the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. The Private Sector contributed 0.1 per cent to 2 per cent of total funds with the rest of funds provided by the Nigerian government.”
Chief Launcher and Chairman and CEO of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote said the mission of the private sector led fund proposed by NACA alongside the Nigeria Business Coalition Against AIDS (NiBUCAA) is to ensure mobilisation of resources towards eradication of AIDS in Nigeria, starting with the Prevention of Mother-to-Child transmission of the virus.
”I am reminded that we have 2 million of our compatriots living with HIV/AIDS and it is our collective responsibility to bring this number down to zero,” he said.
Dangote, who is Africa’s richest man, appealed to individuals and corporate organisations in the country to donate generously toward the Fund, currently chaired by Dr Herbert Wigwe, the Group Managing Director of Access Bank Plc.
”We would like the private sector to work in partnership with the Federal Government on a 50-50 basis which we believe will help us eliminate Mother-to-Child transmission of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria,” he said.
Also speaking, the Director-General of NACA. Dr Gambo Aliyu thanked the President for his commitment and support for the HIV response in the country, noting that as a direct result of his intervention, NACA now procures HIV commodities at manufacturers’ rate, as a result of which more Nigerians living with HIV have been placed on treatment from domestic resources.
He said within the last 3 years, the agency has identified and placed on treatment an additional 900,000 persons living with HIV, bringing the total number of Nigerians on HIV treatment to 1.7 million.
”This unprecedented feat puts Nigeria on a fast-track lane to control HIV spread by 2023.
”However, despite these achievements, our national coverage of prevention of mother to child transmission is less than 50%, leading to about 22,000 cases of mother-to-child transmission of HIV every year in the country,” he said.
Justifying the need for the Fund, the Director-General said providing life-long treatment to all PLHIV even after successfully stopping new HIV infections would require a domestically sustainable financing mechanism.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
February 1, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI PROMISES TO HONOUR AGREEMENTS WITH ASUU
President Muhammadu Buhari says the Federal Government remains committed to honouring promises made to the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to prevent disruptive strikes, engender uninterrupted academic programmes and improve funding of education institutions.
The President made the pledge on Tuesday in Abuja while receiving members of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) led by the Co-Chairs, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, and the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev’d Dr. Samson Olasupo Ayokunle.
Commending the leadership of NIREC for intervening in the year-long strike by ASUU and holding consultations with the parties, the President said no society which wishes itself well neglects its educational system and all its component parts.
President Buhari urged NIREC that in its subsequent consultations with members of ASUU, it is important that they share with them that Government regards them and the service they provide to the nation very highly.
”However, they should be cognizant of the fiscal pressures that we are currently facing. Nevertheless, we remain committed to honoring our promises.
”For their part, I would like to encourage ASUU to continue to work with us towards finding resolutions to the challenges that confront us.
”My administration is committed to this engagement and dialogue, and I urge them to stay the course towards a joint resolution in the best interest of our children and nation,” he said.
Responding to issues raised by the leadership of NIREC on finding sustainable solutions to the perennial and disruptive strikes that threaten the sanctity and integrity of the nation’s university system, the President said he had directed his Chief of Staff, the Honourable Ministers of Labour and Employment and Education to make resolving this issue a priority.
The President said he had received briefing from the Minister of Labour, detailing where we are today given the various interested parties, and he apprised the meeting as follows:
”To show our commitment, several payments have been made over the last 6 months, addressing several of the issues you raised – details of which the Minister of Labour and Employment can make available to you.
”Funding has also been provided for infrastructure development across several public universities and several of them have begun drawing down on this facility to improve their level of infrastructure
”Finally, and perhaps the most contentious of issues regarding the decision to use either the Integrated Payroll and Personal Information System (IPPIS) or the University Transparency Accountability Solutions (UTAS).
”As you may be aware, IPPIS was introduced as a means of blocking leakages. Through IPPIS, the Federal Government was able to save over N100 billion annually from the core civil service alone. In view of the resistance from ASUU we devised UTAS which is now on the table.
”I have also been informed that the System Assessment Report conducted by NITDA has been shared by the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy to all stakeholders including ASUU, and they are to make the appropriate modifications and report their recommendations.”
CAN President, while speaking on behalf of the Council, said the meeting with the President was on the single point of averting strikes in the universities and the challenges of ASUU, which they consider to be of national interest.
Dr Ayokunle told the President that from NIREC’s meeting with ASUU on January 10, 2022, the university lecturers outlined that the bone of contention between the Union and Federal Government centred on eight issues including inconclusive renegotiation of 2009 ASUU-FGN agreement, UTAS, IPPIS and distortion in salary payment challenges.
According to him, other contentious issues are visitation panels to Federal Universities report issues, funding for revitalisation of public universities, earned academic allowance, state universities and promotion arrears.
The NIREC leadership, while acknowledging that some of the issues have been addressed by the Government, appealed to President Buhari to direct the immediate return to the table to conclude the re-negotiation of the 2009 agreement.
”If the renegotiation process continues to conclusion, issues that the Government is not comfortable with can be re-negotiated with a view to reaching only implementable agreements. We believe that with renegotiation in place, other issues will be adequately addressed along the line,” the NIREC Co-Chair said.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
February 1, 2022
SERAP sues Buhari, others over ‘missing N3.1bn in Finance Ministry’
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against President Muhammadu Buhari “over his failure to probe allegations that over N3bn of public funds are missing from the Federal Ministry of Finance, and to ensure the prosecution of those suspected to be responsible, and the recovery of any missing public funds.”
The suit followed the grim allegations by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation in the 2018 and 2019 annual audited reports that N3.1bn of public funds are missing, misappropriated or unaccounted for.
In the suit number FHC/L/CS/148/22 filed last Friday at the Federal High Court in Lagos, SERAP is seeking: “an order of mandamus to direct and compel President Buhari to ensure the investigation of the alleged missing N3.1bn of public funds, the prosecution of anyone suspected to be responsible, and the recovery of any missing public money.”
In the suit, SERAP is arguing that: “The allegations that over N3bn of public funds are missing amount to a fundamental breach of national anticorruption laws and the country’s international obligations including under the UN Convention against Corruption to which Nigeria is a state party.”
According to SERAP, “Investigating and prosecuting the allegations, and recovering any missing public funds would serve the public interest, and end the impunity of perpetrators.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “The consequences of corruption are felt by citizens on a daily basis. Corruption exposes them to additional costs, and undermines economic development of the country, trapping the majority of Nigerians in poverty and depriving them of opportunities.”
Joined in the suit as Respondents are Mr Abubakar Malami, SAN, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation; and Mrs Zainab Ahmed, Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning.
SERAP is arguing that, “It is in the interest of justice to grant this application. The suit is in keeping with the Nigerian Constitution of 1999 [as amended], particularly the provisions on oath of office by public officers, and section 15[5] which requires the authorities to abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.”
SERAP is also arguing that, “Complying with constitutional requirements and international standards on transparency and accountability would ensure effective and efficient management of public resources, and put the country’s wealth and resources to work for the common good of all Nigerians.”
The suit filed on behalf of SERAP by its lawyers Kolawole Oluwadare and Ms Adelanke Aremo, read in part: “The failure to investigate the allegations of grand corruption in the Ministry of Finance constitutes a grave violation of the duty placed on the authorities to take appropriate measures to promote transparency and accountability in the management of public finances.”
“President Buhari’s constitutional responsibility to ensure the investigation and prosecution of allegations of corruption, as well as recovery of any missing public funds is contained in Section 15[5] of the Nigerian Constitution, which provides that ‘the State shall abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power’, and in the Oath of Office in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution.”
“The Oath of Office of the President is considered of such importance that section 140 of the 1999 Constitution provides that the President cannot perform his or her respective official functions as President without taking the oath of office.”
“Granting the reliefs sought would help to address the adverse consequences of alleged diversion of public funds on the human rights of poor Nigerians.”
“Mandamus is a high prerogative writ which lies to secure the performance of a public duty. It gives command that a duty of a public nature which normally, though not necessarily is imposed by statute but is neglected or refused to be done after due demand, be done.”
“If there is a discretion to perform the duty, the court has the power to examine whether the discretion to refuse to act has been properly exercised.”
“Transparent and accountable public financial management is a key pillar of good governance, and of vital importance to create and maintain fair and sustainable economic and social conditions in the country.”
“Articles 5 and 9 of the UN Convention against Corruption impose legal obligations on the Buhari administration to ensure proper management of public affairs and public funds, and to promote sound and transparent administration of public affairs.”
“According to the report of the Auditor-General for 2018, the Ministry of Finance spent N24,708,090.00 on pre-retirement training but without any document. The consultant hired also failed to quote any price as cost of the training but the Ministry paid N5,670,060.00 to the consultant.”
“Request for payment from the consultant was dated 20 January 2017 while the first payment voucher in his favour was dated 13 January 2017 (7 days before his request).”
“The Ministry also reportedly failed to account for N2,885,772,493.27 released to the Ministry from the Service Wide Vote to take care of estacodes and other allowances for representing the Federal Government in meetings, and contribution to Organization for Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).”
“The money was spent without approval, and any documents. The Auditor-General is concerned that the money may have been mismanaged.”
“The Ministry also reportedly awarded a contract on 17th May 2017 for N98,540,500.00 without any document, contrary to the Public Procurement Act. The project was not also budgeted for. There was no evidence of performance of the contract. The Ministry also deducted N9,354,809.52 as WHT and VAT but without any evidence of remittance. The Auditor-General wants the money recovered.”
“The Ministry also reportedly spent N98,759,299.20 between January–December 2017 without any document, contrary to Financial Regulation 601.”
“According to the 2019 report of the Auditor-General, the Ministry paid N20,466,744.00 as cash advances to staff of ‘You-Win’ between 8 February and 18 December, 2018 but the Ministry has failed to retire the money.”
“The advances were granted for the purchase of store items, repairs and other services that would have been made through the award of contract. Government lost N2,046,674.40 which would have accrued as taxes had these jobs been undertaken through award of contracts. The Auditor-General wants the money recovered.”
“The Ministry also reportedly paid N15,471,850.00 to two consultants for capacity building in Kano and Adamawa States but without any supporting document, contrary to paragraph 603 (1) of the Financial Regulations. The Auditor-General is concerned that the money may have been diverted, and wants it recovered.”
No date has been fixed for the hearing of the suit.
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
30/1/2022
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
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January 31, 2022
PRESS STATEMENT
CDWR SUPPORTS THE STRIKING ABUJA PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS AND URGES NLC AND PARENTS TO SUPPORT THEIR DEMANDS
WE CALL ON NUT TO MOBILISE MEMBERS TO FIGHT FOR ADEQUATE FUNDING OF PUBLIC EDUCATION
The Campaign for Workers and Democratic Rights (CDWR), Federal Capital Territory, (FCT) Chapter, welcomes the decision of primary school teachers of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in FCT-Abuja to go on strike over their unpaid promotion arrears. The strike was first embarked on by both primary and secondary school teachers, with a five-day warning strike in November 2021.
Unfortunately, the last strike which was meant to force the Area Council chairmen to pay the outstanding entitlements of the teachers was later called off by the State Wing Executive Council (SWEC) of NUT following a limited concession which largely affected only secondary school teachers without any concrete commitment to the primary school teachers.
This was why the primary school teachers refused to resume work along with their secondary school counterparts immediately after the end of the warning strike. They however suspended the strike in December 2021 following an agreement with the areas councils. It is therefore, the failure of the Council Chairmen across the FCT to fulfil the initial commitment made with the primary school teachers that informs the ongoing strike of primary school teachers across the FCT.
This is the height of insensitivity and irresponsibility by the Area councils and the FCT Ministry. CDWR condemns this and calls on the teachers, who are protesting the non-implementation of promotion arrears from 2014 to 2018 and its 2020 and 2021 annual increments as well as the refusal to upgrade qualified teachers, to step up the struggle to get their deserved entitlements. This should include congresses across the NUT in the area councils and schools, leaflets and press statements to make sure students and parents are carried along in the struggle and protests to put pressure on the FCTA.
The fact is that the authorities of the area councils and the FCT ministry are not taking the demands of the striking teachers seriously because their top functionaries do not have children in the public primary schools. We believe there’s no better time to press home these demands radically than this moment when the FCTA elections are coming up and some of these irresponsible political representatives will be seeking reelection.
We call on the Nigeria Labour Congress and pro-masses organisations as well as associations of parents to actively support the struggle and demands of the striking teachers and prevail on the Area Council chairmen and the Minister of FCT to immediately meet their legitimate demands. This support is also important so that the children of working class people and the poor who are the majority in public primary schools are not denied access to education.
We also call on the NUT and NLC to fight for, in addition to the demand on the welfare of public school teachers, both at primary and secondary schools, adequate funding and democratic management of schools including the provision of necessary facilities. This is in order to guarantee decent working conditions and the provision of quality public education. This is the only way to ensure quality education is not priced out of the reach of children from the working class and poor background.
SIGNED:
Omole Ibukun
Coordinator, CDWR FCT Abuja
Fuel Tanker Explosion: Okowa visits scene
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta on Thursday, called for immediate assessment of the cause of the petroleum product tanker explosion, which razed down no fewer than 25 houses and destroyed valuables worth millions of naira in Ohoror community in Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state.
The incident, which occurred on Wednesday night in the community located along Warri-Portharcout Expressway, reportedly claimed two lives in the two trucks involved in the explosion.
Okowa made the call when he visited the scene of the incident.
He commiserated with the community on the tragedy and gave assurance that government would take steps to cushion the effect of the inferno on victims.
The governor said that no effort would be spared in putting out the fire completely and directed the State Director of Fire Service to remain on ground untill the fire was completely extinguished and other oil trucks posing a threat to the community were evacuated.
The governor who was accompanied by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Chief Sherrif Oborevwori and Secretary to the State Government, Chief Patrick Ukah, commended the Fire Service for prompt response and advised the community to keep off from the fire scene in addition to being vigilant to avoid loss of lives as government was working hard to contain the spread of the explosion.
Briefing the governor earlier, the state’s Director of Fire Services, Mr Eugene Oziwele, said that his men were alerted at dawn and he quickly mobilized to the community.
He added that fire-fighting trucks were mobolised from Ughelli to ensure that the fire was extinguished completely.
Also briefing the governor, President-General of Uwheru Kingdom, Chief Macpherson Igbedi, said that no fewer than 20 houses were gutted by the fire and appealed for more efforts in evacuating an abandoned tanker laden with gas from exploding.
He said two trucks conveying gas and diesel rammed into each other at the Ohoror junction before the explosion occurred.
The Chairman of Ughelli North Council, Chief Godwin Adode, was on hand to conduct the governor round the affected area.
LEAD BY EXAMPLE, OKOWA URGES PUBLIC SERVANTS
Delta Governor, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has charged public servants to show exemplary leadership by making honesty and dedication to duty their guiding principle in order to overcome the challenges plaguing the nation.
The governor gave the charge on Monday in Asaba while swearing in members of Delta State House of Assembly Service Commission which has Mrs Cordelia Anyangwu as Chairman.
Represented by his Deputy, Mr Kingsley Otuaro, Okowa emphasised that once leaders showed good example through good leadership conduct, followers would be forced to adjust thereby improving productivity in the nation’s economy.
He said that if discipline was entrenched in public office, some of the challenges of the country would become a thing of the past.
“This event is another step in our resolve to strengthen and reposition the administrative machinery of the State House of Assembly and other arms of government for optimum performance.
“Your appointment is no doubt a recognition of your record of experience, hard work and contributions to the development of Delta State,” he said.
He urged the new chairman and members of the commission to see their appointment as a call to service and an opportunity to contribute to the growth and sustainable development of the State and its legislature.
“I urge all of you to be team players who should make honesty and dedication to duty your guiding principle, including leading the way of good conduct for other staff to follow by being disciplined, conscientious and punctual to work.
“I charge the newly inaugurated chairman and members of the commission to work assiduously to achieve desired objectives’’.
According to Okowa, the State House of Assembly Service Commission is saddled with the responsibility of managing the workforce of the State Assembly.
“The key responsibilities of the Commission include the appointment of staff to all offices of the State House of Assembly; to promote, transfer and confirm such appointments, including the discipline of erring officials.
“It is on record that the Executive and the Legislative arms of government in the State enjoy a good working relationship and State legislature has long been enjoying financial independence.
“The inauguration of the chairman and members of the assembly service commission will also enhance the administrative independence of the State legislature,” he said.
The governor commended public servants in the State for their continued loyalty, understanding and support and lauded the chairman and members of the immediate past commission for their services to the government and people of the state.
“My dear Deltans, while recognising the challenges we face and the need to overcome them, let us note the progress we have made so far in the life of this administration.
“Let us continue to build on the prevailing peace in the State and do nothing that is capable of heating up the polity.
“We will continue to do our very best by the grace of God, to give effective leadership with integrity, fairness, justice and honour to every part of our dear State,” he stated.
The governor congratulated Mrs Anyangwu for emerging as the Chairman of the Commission, which also has Dr Philomena Onyearone, Chief Timothy Umukoro, Mrs Komboye Mowoe, Sunday Ebireri, Chief Innocent Okofu and Andrew Ukavwe as members.
Responding on behalf of the appointees, Anyangwu expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity given her and members of the commission to serve the state and thanked Governor Okowa for deeming them fit to serve.
“This is a position of trust and confidence. We assure you that we will carry out our activities diligently with absolute loyalty as our guiding principle and will do everything possible to move the Commission forward.”
The ceremony was attended by member Representing Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Chief Thomas Ereyitomi; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Deputy Speaker. Mr Ochor Ochor; Chief Judge of the state, Justice Theresa Diai, President, Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Patience Elumeze, among others.
PRESS RELEASE
COMPLETION OF LEKKI PORT FINAL SOLUTION TO APAPA GRIDLOCK, SAYS SANWO-OLU
- Publisher commends Governor, LASG EXCO for delivering on promises
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday said completion of the Lekki Port will put an end to the intractable Apapa gridlock, the congestion along Oshodi-Apapa Expressway, port access roads and Apapa environs.
Governor Sanwo-Olu made the statement at the Opening Ceremony of the Africa Business Convention, organised by Business Day Newspaper at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, where he noted that “The final solution to Apapa gridlock will be the completion of Lekki Port.”
The Governor said several measures would be put in place to ensure Apapa is congestion-free, saying that “we need to change the officials regularly to ensure there is no compromise in services rendered.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu who spoke passionately about his administration’s commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy to millions of Lagosians through the THEMES developmental agenda for Greater Lagos said his government has completed iconic projects within the State in the last two and half years.
He also cited some of the infrastructural projects such as Lekki Deep Port, 4th Mainland Bridge, Red and Blue line rails and Imota Rice Mills, among others that are ongoing or in the pipeline, which according to him would be completed and become operational within the next 24 months.
The Governor said the process leading to the commencement of the construction of the 4th Mainland Bridge, which starts from Badore in Ajah and ends in Ikorodu, would be completed before the second quarter of the year.
He said: “Lagos is, in addition to being Africa’s most populous megacity, the continent’s premier business and investment destination, and we will continue to do all within our power to remain so.
“As I speak, several landmark public and private infrastructure and investment projects are underway or nearing completion in Lagos State; the biggest single-train Petroleum Refinery in the world, one of the largest Rice Mills in the world, one of the largest and most modern Deep-Sea Ports on the continent, and West Africa’s biggest Light Rail network. Within the next 24 months, we expect all of these to be operational.
“We are also Africa’s Startup capital, ahead of Nairobi, Cape Town and Johannesburg, in terms of the number of startups and in terms of investment inflows and the size of exits. Flutterwave and Paystack, two of the most prominent African unicorns of the decade, were born here.
“In addition, we are home to several major investments ongoing in real estate, like Eko Atlantic on the edge of Victoria Island, and Alaro City on the Lekki Peninsula.”
Speaking at the event, the Publisher of Business Day Newspaper, Mr. Frank Aigbogun, applauded Governor Sanwo-Olu for the great work he has done in ridding Apapa of traffic gridlocks and for delivering on his promise to the people of Lagos State.
He said: “When we had the interview, which I moderated, hosted by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry before the elections in 2019, Apapa dominated that conversation. I don’t know how often you go to Apapa Mr. Governor but I think between 23 and 27 minutes these days, you get Apapa.
“When I have an appointment with people, they often will get to the office before I get there because they would make so much room for traffic and they don’t find any traffic on the way; so they are there waiting for me in the office. So, Mr. Governor, I want to acknowledge the work that you have done and to commend you and your team for delivering on your promise.”
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
01 FEBRUARY 2022
