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Suspend me from PDP, Wike begs Atiku, Ayu
Rivers Governor Nyesom Wike has recalled how the Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar and a former Senate President, Saraki rebuffed former President Goodluck Jonathan’s pleas to rescind their decision of leaving the party in 2014.
Wike also said the party’s leadership knows what he is capable of.
“I beg them today, they should not waste time to suspend me,” said the governor during the media chat held at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
“They should call a National Executive Committee (NEC) – meeting – now and say ‘you are now suspended from the party’. Anything you see, you take. They know what I will do.”
Wike said the Sokoto Governor, Aminu Tanbuwal was among those, who humiliated Jonathan after the 2014 convention as they insisted that it was the turn of the north.
He said the party’s constitution contained provisions for zoning of elective and party positions but lamented that some people were doing everything within their powers to manipulate the system.
“They slant stories in such a way as to deceive the public. The founding fathers know the complexity of this country. They did it in a way as not to have problems.
“People should not forget history. In 2013 and 2014, there was an issue of the presidential candidate Jonathan emerged. Atiku and others walked out of the convention. Tambuwal and former Senate President all walked out.
He said: “There shall be zoning of party and elective offices. It is clear. Not ambiguous. But people will always try to manipulate the system to suit them.
“Jonathan did everything to talk to them. But they rebuffed him as a sitting President. President travelled to London to see Atiku, but he rebuffed him. Former Governor Babangida Aliyu admitted that they all agreed to work against Jonathan”.
“My job here is not only (to execute) projects; I am not saying I am bigger than the party, but those who ran away from the party cannot suspend me from the party.”
He said if not for the love he and others in his camp had for the main opposition party, they could have prevented the PDP convention from holding.
Wike alleged that the PDP’s National Chairman, Iyorchia Ayu, played a vital role that was detrimental to other aspirants in the emergence of Atiku as PDP flagbearer.
“He was calling aspirants to withdraw for Atiku. I was there, Saraki and others were there.
“He manipulated the delegates. There was nothing Ayu did not do to ensure Wike didn’t emerge,” Wike said.
The governor added, “Meetings upon meetings were going. Pressures were being mounted on people to step down.
“Even on the night of the convention meetings were going on. That is why we started our convention late.
“Some of the retired generals were involved. Some of the meetings were held in their houses. There is nothing they didn’t do for me to step down.
“Those who know me, know that I would have stopped the convention, even if heaven falls.”
We Believe In One Nigeria, But We Cannot Have One Country, Two Systems
The video making the rounds showing the equivalent of the Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun Corps) in Katsina, obtaining the approval of the Federal Government to bear arms is fraught with great dangers. Denying Amotekun the urgently needed rights, to legitimately bear arms is a repudiation of the basis of true federalism which we have been clamoring for.
That Katsina was able to arm its state security force, with the display of AK47 means we are pursuing one country, two systems ” solution to the national question. If the katsina situation conferring advantages on some, in the face of commonly faced existential threats, it means that our unitary policing system, which has failed, is a deliberate method of subjugation which must be challenged.
The Independence agreement was based on a democratic arrangement to have a federal state and devolved internal security mechanics. We must go back to that agreement. Denying Amotekun the right to bear arms exposes the Southwest to life-threatening marauders and organized crime. It is also a deliberate destruction of our agricultural sector. It is an existential threat.
We want to reiterate, that what is sauce for the goose, is sauce for the gander. Ondo State government under the doctrine of necessity have decided to fulfil its legal, constitutional and moral duty to the citizens of the State, by acquiring arms to protect them. This is more so, given that the bandits have an unchecked access to sophisticated weapons. The State government cannot look on while its citizens are being terrorized and murdered with impunity. We will defend our people.
Signed:
Arakunrin Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu, SAN,
Governor, Ondo State.
RE: PRESS STATEMENT ISSUED BY OGUN STATE GOVERNMENT IN RESPECT OF IROKUN, OBINEHIN, IDIGBENGBEN AND ARAROMI SEASIDE COMMUNITIES
The press statement issued by Ogun State Government, based on the recent white paper issued by Ondo state, recognizing the traditional institutions of IROKUN , OBINEHIN, IDIGBENGBEN and ARAROMI seaside has been brought to the attention of the Ondo State Government. The Government has decided to respond as follows in order to set the records straight.
- Irokun, Obinehin, Idigbengben and Araromi seaside are communities within Ilaje Local Government area of Ondo state. These communities have a long history of traditional institutions within the state.
- These communities are not in dispute between Ondo state and Ogun State as the people living therein are indigenes of Ondo state. In addition, the landmass occupied by these communities falls within the territory of Ondo state of Nigeria.
- The claim that these communities are in dispute before the National Boundary commission is untrue, as the communities are within Ilaje Local Government of Ondo state. Federal institutions like Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regularly conducts elections in these communities and votes cast are recorded for Ilaje Local Government of Ondo state.
- The recognized traditional institutions in these communities are integral parts of traditional institutions in, and of Ilaje Local Government area of Ondo state and the traditional rulers are indigenes of Ondo State.
- Ondo state Government in the recent White paper issued on Hon. Justice Ajama Commission, avoided consideration of request for recognition of traditional institutions from communities where there are land disputes and communal conflicting claims, pending the resolution of such disputes.
- It should be noted that the traditional institutions of these communities, submitted memoranda and appeared publicly before Ondo state Hon. Justice C.E.T Ajama commission of Enquiry on Chieftaincy matters, set up by Ondo State as far back as 2015 without any opposition from any quarter, including the Government of Ogun State. It is surprising that the Government of Ogun state is trying to claim ownership, after Ondo state Government has accepted the recommendation of the said Commission.
While the Government of Ondo state is not averse to discussions on this matter as requested, we however urge our brothers in Ogun State to check their records properly on issues raised in their Press statement.
It is on record that the communities in question have been in a festive mood since the announcement by Ondo state Government to recognize their traditional institutions. There is no threat to peace in these communities. We urge our people to continue to live harmoniously amongst themselves for the development of our dear sunshine state.
Signed:
Bamidele Ademola-Olateju
Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Ondo state.
22nd September, 2022.
GOV AKEREDOLU, SIBLINGS HOLD 8-DAY RITE OF PASSAGE FOR LATE MOTHER
- Receives More Guests On Condolence Visit
- Mama Was A Strong Woman, Dedicated Child Of God – Olori Olubaka
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, and his siblings on Thursday held the 8-day rite of passage to eternal Glory for their late mother, Lady Evangelist Grace Bosede Akeredolu JP.
The 8-day passage rite was held in Owo, the Governor’s home town.
The late Lady Evangelist Akeredolu died last Thursday, September 15, 2022.
Governor Akeredolu’s sibling, Pastor Kola Akeredolu, with his wife, Justice (Prof.) Alero Akeredolu, and a grandson of the deceased, Mr Babajide Akeredolu, joined the Governor to receive visitors on condolence visit.
The Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Olugbenga Ale, and Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, also joined the family for the 8-day rite of passage.
Governor Akeredolu received the Olori of Olubaka of Oka-Akoko, Adejumoke Adeleye, and that of Olukare, Olori Folashade Momoh, on condolence visit.
Olori Adejumoke, who said the news of the demise of Lady Evangelist Akeredolu came as a rude shock, described the nonagenarian as a strong woman, very loving and dedicated child of God.
“Mama was a strong woman, very loving, accommodating and dedicated child of God. When I heard of Mama’s demise, it was a rude shock. But in all things, the Bible says we should give thanks. We are thanking God that mama is the one that left us, though she left a very big vaccum which I believe only God will help her children to fill.
“So, I use this time to sympathise with the whole of Akeredolu’s family, the State and those of us that are friends of the family members. I pray that Mama’s gentle soul will rest in perfect peace,” Olori Adejumoke said.
Receiving the guests at his residence in Owo, Governor Akeredolu disclosed that his mother did her own bit before she left at God’s appointed time.
“We have no reason to query God. God, at His own time, has decided to take her away. We will miss her but we have every cause to thank God. We will celebrate her in our own little way,” the Governor said.
Governor Akeredolu also received in audience some Traditional Rulers including Oloba of Uso-in-Council led by Oba Ademola Adebiyi; the Elemure-in-Council led by Oba Simeon Adeyefa, the Elemure of Emure-Ile, and his Chiefs; the Olupele-in-Council led by Oba Olusegun Aganun and the Ojomoluda of Ijebu-Owo, Oba Kofoworola Oladoyinbo.
The monarchs rejoiced with the Governor for surviving his mother, describing the late Lady Evangelist Akeredolu as a fulfilled Woman who would be remembered for her good work for humanity and service to God.
The Governor appreciated the monarchs for finding time to visit him.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 22, 2022.
CONDOLENCE VISIT: GOV AKEREDOLU RECEIVES OWO NBA, SAYS HIS LATE MUM MADE HUGE CONTRIBUTION TO THE LEGAL PROFESSION
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Thursday disclosed that his late mother, Lady Evangelist Grace Akeredolu JP, contributed immensely to the legal profession in the country.
The Governor explained that his late mum produced lawyers and judges as children and grandchildren as well as daughter-in-law.
Governor Akeredolu spoke in Owo while receiving members of the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, Owo branch, led by the chairman, Oladele Oladejo.
The Governor was in Owo to mark the 8-day rite of passage to eternal glory for his late mother.
Arakunrin Akeredolu said: ”No doubt, Mama has made her own contribution to our profession. I’m one, Justice (Prof.) Alero Akeredolu is one, Justice Bolaji Olajuwon is one. She donated two Judges and one SAN to the profession. Mama can claim to have also donated some grandchildren who are lawyers. So, Mama has made contributions to this profession.
“When we say Mama lived well, it is not only in what she ate, not only in where she lived, it is not only in what she wore or anything. By God’s grace, she lived well, she produced the President of the Nigeria Bar Association. It is not common. So, Mama stood out. She has also made her impacts on the political field,” the Governor said.
Governor Akeredolu said the family is most grateful to God for the good life spent by their mother, describing it as very very uncommon.
Earlier, the chairman of the branch, Oladele Oladejo, lauded late Lady Evangelist Akeredolu for her support and sterling contributions to the Bar, congratulating the Governor and his siblings for surviving their mother.
Governor Akeredolu also played host to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Ondo North Senatorial District led by the Senatorial chairman, Jacob Oredola, and the executive members of the party in Owo local government area led by the chairman, Samuel Balogun.
The Governor equally received in audience other dignitaries and guests including Sen. Remi Okunrinboye; Rev. Canon Bayode Oladimeji and his wife; Mr Femi Idris, chairman, Ondo State Local Government Service Commission; Chairman, Owo Local Government, Samuel Adegbegi; members of Red Cross of Nigeria, Owo Division, led by the chairman, Sajinyan Samuel, and Iyalojas/Iyalajes in Owo local government area.
Management, Staff and students of Foremost Citizens School led by the Proprietor, Olumide Ogunleye; First Bank representatives led by Timothy Arowoogun; members of Ebira Community in the state led by Danmusa Zubaru also identified with the Governor over the death of his mother.
Students of the school presented a condolence letter with bouquet to the Governor.
The guests, in their separate remarks, described the exit of late Lady Evangelist Grace Akeredolu as a celebration of a life well spent, stressing that Mama lived a worthy and impactful life.
They described the nonagenarian as a rare gift to humanity, even as they prayed God to continue to be with the Governor and the entire family members.
Receiving his guests one after the other, the Governor expressed his gratitude to them, saying that the burial arrangements for his late mother would be announced later and everybody would be carried along.
“No doubt, our late mum will be missed by us. It is a normal thing. But we still have cause to thank God that she lived to the ripe age of 90. All of you were here when we celebrated her 90th birthday.
“We have every reason to thank God. We cannot keep repeating the reason to thank God. If it is only that we survived her, it is enough. We pray that all of us will survive our aged ones. 90 is not a joke. The final burial for her will be held here in Owo,” the Governor said.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 23, 2022.
AT MEETING ON CLIMATE CHANGE, PRESIDENT BUHARI REITERATES NIGERIA’S STRONG COMMITMENT TO ENERGY TRANSITION PLAN
President Muhammadu Buhari Wednesday in New York restated the commitment of the Nigerian government towards ensuring that there is a rapid and strategic transition to renewable energy in response to the world-wide efforts for the preservation of the environment.
Speaking at a Leaders’ Closed-Door Meeting on Climate Change convened by the Secretary General of the United Nations, Mr. Antonio Guterres, coming before the commencement of the COP27 in November this year, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, President Buhari stressed that his administration had, in august this year, launched a home-grown, data-backed, multi-pronged energy transition plan, which is the country’s framework in achieving net-zero emissions by 2060.
Highlighting some of the details in the plan, the President said that through the use of emerging technologies and alternative fuels such as hydrogen, bioenergy and waste-to-energy, a pathway would be created for accelerated decarburization of energy systems and harnessing of new and diverse technologies towards low carbon development while aligning to our broader developmental aspirations in a fair and just manner.
Speaking further, the Nigerian leader said, “the plan also sets out a timeline and framework for the attainment of emissions reduction across five key sectors: power, cooking, oil and gas, transport and industry,” adding that, “gas will play a critical role as a transition fuel in Nigeria’s net-zero pathway, particularly in the power and cooking sectors.
“The clean energy goals of the plan include modernizing the power sector with large-scale integration of renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency and conservation; and is expected to generate 250 gigawatts of installed energy capacity with over 90% made up of renewables.”
Expressing his confidence that the plan would put the nation on the path of prosperity, President Buhari said that a careful implementation would create significant investment opportunities as it will engender the establishment and expansion of industries related to solar energy, hydrogen and electric vehicles.
“It will guide Nigeria’s rapid transition to renewable energy and result in significant job creation with up to 340,000 jobs created by 2030 and up to 840,000 jobs created by 2060 driven mainly by power, cooking and transport sectors.”
He commended Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi for his tireless efforts in the preparations for the COP27 and assured him of the support of the Nigerian Government.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 21, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI HAILS OLOWU OF KUTA, OBA MAKAMA OYELUDE, TEGBOSUN II, ON 10TH ANNIVERSARY
President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with Olowu of Kuta, Oba Makama Oyelude, Tegbosun II, on his 10th anniversary on the throne, celebrating with the royal father on many achievements, particularly upholding the rich tradition of Owu Kuta kingdom.
The President notes the harmony, peace and tolerance that pervades the Owu Kuta kingdom since Oba Oyelude ascended the throne of his forefathers, bringing his experience of wide travels and interaction at national and global levels to bear on the position.
President Buhari affirms that His Royal Majesty’s proclivity of giving to people, without discrimination and demonstrating love, without expecting returns, goes a long way in getting his people to believe in his vision of making the kingdom a reference in the state, and the country.
On the 10th anniversary of Oba Oyelude, President Buhari extols the royal father for his wisdom, and willingness to share with the old and young, and the lowly and highly placed in society.
The President prays for more grace and strength for Oba Oyelude to keep serving his people, country and humanity.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 22, 2022
PRESIDENT BUHARI SEEKS INCREASE IN VOLUME OF TRADE AS NIGERIA RECORDS OVER $1.69BN EXPORTS TO U.S IN 2020
President Muhammadu Buhari has described the United States as Nigeria’s main trading partner and one of ‘‘our most important diplomatic partners,’’ underscoring the need for concerted efforts to increase the volume of bilateral trade.
The President spoke at a meeting with the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU) at the Nigeria International Economic Partnership Forum, held on the margins of the 77th UN General Assembly in New York, Thursday.
He told the gathering that in 2020, Nigeria exported over $1.69 billion worth of goods to the US, adding that these exports were primarily made up of crude oil and other petroleum products.
”Nigeria’s capability is not just limited to the oil and gas industry, but variety of other sectors that hold notable potentials.
”We are the largest economy in Africa and have over 200 million-strong consumer market that is home to a range of attractive opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, light manufacturing, infrastructure development and technology.
”The beauty of this forum is that the Ministers responsible for all of these sectors are here today, as are some of Nigeria’s premier business leaders who are already excelling in these spaces, ” he said.
The President further said that Nigeria is open to deepening collaboration with BCIU, pledging this Administration’s continued commitment to maintain an enabling business environment that is friendly to foreign investors.
”Going into partnerships with trusted local and foreign partners who have well-established networks and understand the dynamics of the country is one way to guarantee success in Nigeria.
”Today’s event provides a platform for businesses under the BCIU umbrella to make connections with credible Nigerian partners. I trust that this event will help build partnerships that will translate into increased trade and investment flows between Nigeria and the United States,” he said.
Apprising the business executives on the current Administration’s economic policy, the President said since 2015, the focus has been on economic diversification and successfully, the economy is on a path of sustainable and inclusive growth through an open, rules-based and market-oriented way of doing business.
The President emphasised that his major objectives for the forum is to garner support from the BCIU for two of Nigeria’s most high-impact developmental ambitions:
”Driving strategic and financial investment into Nigeria’s real-sector transformation, and rightly positioning Nigeria as a major international supply-chain partner to leading global economies like the United States.”
According to the President, global supply chains are currently facing a challenging time as U.S. shippers have been under strain caused by reduced inputs from China and the growing backlog of European imports caused by the Russia-Ukraine crisis.
He added that the world has not fully recovered from the economic challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and this has taught everyone the importance of having viable alternatives when traditional supply chains are unable to serve our needs.
”The current global challenges are expected to continue into 2023 and beyond, but Nigeria is ready to fill a greater amount of global demand.
”We are leveraging on our skilled labour-force, strategic location, as well as production and manufacturing potential to move forward as a key trading partner to the United States.
”I have always held the strong conviction that there is no crisis without an accompanying opportunity and solution. Increased collaboration with Nigeria and other developing markets is needed to mitigate against both current and potential future supply-chain challenges.”
Expressing confidence that the situation in the world today presented an opportunity for real sector investment in Nigeria, the President noted that since signing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, Nigeria has strengthened its position as a gateway to an integrated continental market, consisting of 1.3 billion consumers with an aggregate GDP of $3.4 trillion.
Further, he stated that the administration had focused strongly on developing Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, and given the country’s enormous natural resources, technological partnership is needed to transform this natural endowment into high value goods.
”To drive forward our manufacturing and production capacity, we have developed 17 operational Special Economic Zones with four more currently under construction.
”Fourteen of these are general economic zones which support export processing, large-scale manufacturing, warehousing, logistic services, tourism, food processing and packaging as well as technology development; the remaining three are dedicated to oil & gas related activities.
”We have furthermore commenced the development of three automotive Industrial Parks that encourage the local assembly of vehicles for the Pan-African market.”
President Buhari also used the occasion to list fiscal investment incentives formulated to encourage increased private capital inflows into Nigeria.
They include: ”Three to five years of tax holidays for enterprises in what we deem pioneer industries; tax-free operations and no restrictions on expatriate quotas in our Free Trade Zones; capital allowances for agriculture, manufacturing and engineering; and a VAT regime of 5 percent; among others.”
The President of the Republic of The Gambia, Adama Barrow was a Special Guest at the event.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 22, 2022
IN NEW YORK, PRESIDENT BUHARI SAYS INVESTMENT IN SECURITY YIELDING GOOD DIVIDENDS, WOOS MORE INVESTORS TO NIGERIA
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday expressed delight that investments in improving security are yielding good dividends, lauding the Nigeria military for making significant progress in the fight against insecurity and building the momentum in reducing challenges to its barest minimum.
Speaking at the Nigeria International Economic Partnership Forum held on the margins of the 77th UN General Assembly in New York, the President pledged that the Federal Government would do more to improve security, recognising that the sector is another critical element in the flow of investment, and overall economic and infrastructural development.
”We will continue to give all necessary support to our security outfits to ensure that they are able to tackle the challenge headlong”, he said, stressing that ”the advantages and disadvantages of investing in Nigeria far outweigh the challenges.”
President Buhari also declared that in spite of the global crisis fuelled by the Ukraine-Russian war, the lingering COVID-19 pandemic and insurgency in some parts of the country, Nigeria is on course to taking her rightful place in the global economy.
He attributed the country’s success story to the implementation of reforms aimed at attracting foreign investments and sustained improvement in governance.
He noted that the quarterly GDP growth in Q1 2022 has been mostly driven by the non-oil sector, giving credence to the revenue source diversification agenda of government.
The President, however, acknowledged that more still needs to be done to improve private capital flows into Nigeria through Foreign Direct Investment and financing for infrastructure, affirming that the administration is leveraging the Integrated National Financing Strategy to address this.
On growth driven by the non-oil sector, the President said:
”The agricultural sector, our most important, has remained resilient in spite of security concerns, low irrigation, limited inputs, and legacy infrastructure challenges, with strong food demand bolstering growth. Growth in manufacturing reflected stronger household and business consumption on account of the reopening of economic activities and improvement in supply chains.
”The present growth in our service sector is promising. Further privatization, foreign investment, globalization and competition will serve to stimulate growth and competition in the service sector and the economy as a whole.
”On the domestic front, the Federal Government is taking some bold, decisive and urgent action to address revenue underperformance, and improve our operations to make investment in Nigeria very attractive.
”Overall, the Nigerian economy is ripe for increased investment. But on the contrary, private capital flows into Nigeria, consisting mainly of Foreign Direct Investment, have slowed, hindering the financing of much-needed infrastructure and natural resource access projects. Our Administration is already working on innovative ways to restore these flows.
The President who was represented at the opening session by the Chief of Staff, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, told the international economic forum attended by Akinwumi Adesina, President of African Development Bank, and Florie Liser of the Corporate Council on Africa, among others that a key strategy being adopted to improve infrastructure financing is the Integrated National Financing Strategy.
He explained that the strategy seeks to identify ways to expand the financing envelope of the Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria, enhance the sustainable development impact of financing by seeking to integrate and align public and private financial policies, regulatory frameworks, instruments, and business processes with sustainable development.
He added that the private sector would play a significant role in the strategy.
The President also mentioned other efforts by his administration to improve the nation’s economic and development outlook, such as Nigeria’s National Development Plan (2021 – 2025) and the Presidential Power Initiative.
On Nigeria’s National Development Plan, the President stated that it was formulated against the backdrop of several subsisting development challenges in the country and the need to tackle them within the framework of medium and long-term plans.
”This all-encompassing plan, aims to generate 21 million full-time jobs and lift 35 million people out of poverty by 2025, thus setting the stage for achieving the government’s commitment of lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in 10 years.
”To attain the objectives of the National Development Plan (2021 – 2025), we estimate that we would require an investment commitment of about N348 trillion. Government capital expenditure during the period will be N49.7 trillion (14.3 percent) while the balance of N298.3 trillion (85.7 percent) is expected from the Private Sector.
”Of the 14.3 percent government contribution, FGN capital expenditure will be N29.6 trillion (8.5 percent) while the Sub-National Governments’ capital expenditure is estimated to be about N20.1 trillion (5.8 percent).
”The successful implementation of this Plan will, therefore, be heavily dependent on strong partnerships between the private and public sector, both within and with Development Partners outside Nigeria.”
Regarding the power sector, President Buhari noted that his administration has recognized it as a major catalyst for Nigeria’s industrialization, adding that in July, 2021, the 614-kilometre Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano gas pipeline project was launched to enhance energy security.
”Our Administration also provided the sovereign guarantee for this vital infrastructure project. When completed, this project will drive industrialization across the country.
”Furthermore, the first phase of the Presidential Power Initiative will provide over 40 million people with more reliable electricity supply, create 11,000 direct and indirect jobs for Nigerians.
”This will be from power system engineers to electricians and contractors, and this will in turn improve the standard of living while providing homes and businesses with constant, reliable, and affordable electricity supply. ”
The President recalled that at the commencement of his Administration, N200 billion was paid for stranded power to service existing liabilities:
”Contract terms in Power Purchase Agreements were changed from ‘Take or Pay’ to ‘Take and Pay.’ Similarly, the Distribution Companies were made to use banks for bill collections – prior to this, Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) was getting only 50% of proceeds. Now, TCN is financially viable and can invest in its own infrastructure.”
Wishing the forum very successful deliberations, President Buhari assured them that the Federal Government of Nigeria is very keen to consider the outcome of the deliberations and recommendations to elevate the Nigeria project to its rightful place of magnitude.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 22, 2022
PRESS RELEASE
LASG ASSURES TIMELY COMPLETION OF LEKKI-EPE EXPRESSWAY
The Lagos State Government has reassured residents of the timely completion of the Lekki-Epe Expressway with advice to motorists to obey the traffic signs at the construction site.
Special Adviser on Works and Infrastructure, Engr. (Mrs.) Aramide Adeyoye made the statement on Thursday after visiting the Awoyaya Axis of the Epe Expressway together with several stakeholders like Craneburg Construction, Lekki Estate Resident Association (LERSA) and others, in response to the complainant about the ongoing construction work on the expressway (from Eleko to Abraham Adesanya).
Speaking during the inspection, Adeyoye said attitudinal change on the part of motorists and commuters will help a great deal in bringing sanity to the road as construction intensifies on the Lekki-Epe Expressway.
Adeyoye said the Lagos State government is aware of commuters and residents’ pains but is set to replicate the feat from 18 kilometres of Phase I of the Lekki -Epe Expressway, from Eleko Junction to Epe, which is 95 percent completed, by delivering one kilometre per month on the 16 kilometres, Phase II of the project, which is from Eleko Junction to Abraham Adesanya.
“We want to reassure our citizens that the government of Lagos State is assiduously working at improving their lives. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has done a lot in the delivery of dividends of democracy to the people of Lagos State and our works are visible in all parts of the state. Phase I of the Lekki-Epe Expressway, which is from Eleko Junction to Epe, is almost 95 percent completed. We will soon start full work on Phase II of the project, which is from Eleko Junction to Abraham Adesanya,” she said.
The Chairman of Ibeju Lekki Local Council Development Area, Hon. Sesan Olowa, who commended the developmental strides of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, said the Council is doing everything possible to support the state government in ameliorating the hardship being faced as residents commute on the corridor.
“We are very happy and the people of Ibeju Lekki will also support every effort in this direction. We are going to work closely with the contractor and the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to ensure that we manage whatever challenges that might occur during the construction,” he said.
Also speaking, the Chairman Infrastructure Committee of the Lekki Estates Residents and Stakeholders Association (LERSA), Suleiman Bello pledged continued collaboration with the state government to ensure coordinated traffic management on the Lekki/Epe Expressway Corridor as the project progresses.
Bello, who said they are always on the ground to monitor and give feedback to both residents and government, appealed to commuters to be patient on that axis and follow the laid down rules for the work to move smoothly.
“Our role is to ensure that we get the best value. The money they are spending on this project belongs to you and me. So, we must get the best value for all our residents and stakeholders. We must tell our residents and stakeholders to calm down when they are on this construction stretch because if we all behave ourselves when we get to this area, the road project will go very easily and seamlessly. We also have a responsibility to protect the people who are working on the construction site,” he said.
The Project Manager, Craneburg Construction said the Eleko to Epe Road construction is already done even before schedule and this current construction of Eleko back to Abraham Adesanya has started too.
He appealed to motorists for patience and to follow the traffic rules and diversions.
The reconstruction of the Lekki-Epe Expressway (Eleko to Epe T-Junction) which was started by the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is almost done and the 2nd Phase of the Project which is ‘Eleko Junction back to Abraham Adesanya’ has started and will be delivered too.
