₦airaland Forum

CCT: Document EFCC Presented Against Saraki Not From Me- GTB Official

Kehinde Abdulsalam
Jan 18, 2017
0 223



Nwachukwu Amazu, head of the fund transfer unit of the Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) has insisted that the purported document the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission ( EFCC) presented against the Senate President, Bukola Saraki at the Code of Conduct Bureau was not from him.
Amazu is being presented as one of the witnesses in the alleged under declaration of assets by the Senate President, Bukola Saraki.
When asked to explain in relations to exhibit 8 and 9 why he could not confirm the account, Amazu admitted that the document confirming the transfer of fund was destroyed and he had no opportunity to see it before it was destroyed.
Counsel to the Federal Government, Rotimi Jacobs however countered the witness saying he had sometimes said in paragraph 59 of the cross examination that the teller reflected the same order that the previous payments to the defendant was done.
“Can you tell the court how you got the document you forwarded to EFCC? Jacobs asked
Amazu replied saying ‘ I was not the officer responsible for the purported documents forwarded to EFCC and I have no knowledge of that.
TheBriefng recalls that on Tuesday, Amazu, who had before now testified that Saraki transferred funds to his accounts in the United States (US) and London at the time he was Kwara state governor admitted that there was no evidence to show‎ that the defendant operated those accounts.
He said the transfer of funds to American Express Bank of New York was for accounts operated by American Card Services, and not by the defendant‎.
‎Contrary to his earlier testimony that an operator of a credit card must have a bank account, Amazu said the issuer of Saraki’s credit card was not a bank.
The Chairman of the Tribunal, Danladi Umar adjourned to 8th and 9th of February 2017 for continuation of trial.‎

CCT *GTB MANAGER DENIES KNOWLEDGE OF DOCUMENT SUBMITTED BY EFCC *

‎Nwachukwu Amazu, head of the fund transfer unit of the Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), on Wednesday denied knowledge of the documents his bank sent to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Senate President Bukola Saraki.



‎Nwachukwu, who is the second prosecution witness in the trial of Saraki at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), had on Tuesday testified that the accused person operated foreign bank accounts.


He gave this testimony while being led in evidence by Rotimi Jacobs, the prosecution counsel.


However, upon cross-examination by Paul Usoro, counsel to Saraki, the witness admitted that there was no evidence that the said accounts were the senate president's.


‎And on Wednesday, when Usoro asked him to explain  why he could not confirm the identities of the accounts, Nwachukwu said the documents confirming the transfer of funds were destroyed in an inferno, and that he did not see them prior to that time. 


Also, when asked how he got the documents he sent to the EFCC, the witness said he was not the "officer responsible for the documents that were forwarded to EFCC", and that he has "no knowledge of that ".


Shortly afterwards, the tribunal adjour‎ned to February 8 for continuation of trial.

#Flash : Saraki Condoles with Victims of IDP Camp Accident

The President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has conveyed his deep regret over the accidental bombing of the Rann Community in Borno State.

Saraki, in a statement on his social media handles said:

“My thoughts and prayers are with the families and victims of today’s accident in Rann Community of Borno State.

I pray that the souls of the victims may rest in peace. I wish the victims speedy recovery, and I pray that incidents like these never reoccur again.”

#BreakingNews : CCT.

GT Bank Witness, No Evidence to Ascertain Saraki Operated Foreign Accounts*

https://www.thecable.ng/bank-manager-testifying-saraki-says-doesnt-know-issues

*MTEF, Aviation Crisis, CAMA, UBEC Amendment to Occupy Senate This Week*


The passage of the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP) preparatory to working on the 2017 budget, amendment of the Company and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) and the Universal Basic Education Act as well as the continuation of the Ministerial Briefing on the proposed closure of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja, will dominate discussion at the three day plenary sittings of the Senate this week.

A peep into the notice paper released by the office of the chairman, Senate Committee on Rules and Business, Senator Baba Kaka Garbai indicated that following the decision to invite the Minister of Power Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN), representatives of the company billed to handle the repair of the runway of the airport, Julius Berger, Minister of State for Aviation, Hadi Sirika as well as heads of the security agencies, discussions on the issue will continue on Tuesday.

Also on the same day, a motion on the state of affairs in the Internally Displaced Persons camps in the North-East zone following the recent successes recorded by the military in opening up the areas previously locked up by the Boko Haram insurgents will be discussed.

One of the issues on the Notice Paper slated for Wednesday, include the consideration of the Report of the Committee on Finance on the 2017 to 2019 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP), in accordance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2007. The passage of the MTEF has held up commencement of work on the 2017 budget proposals which had earlier been slated for this week.

The Second Reading of the Bill to Amend the Compulsory, Free, Universal Basic Education Act of 2004, that is aimed at enforcing mandatory free education up to Senior Secondary School level is also slated for Wednesday alongside the Second Reading of an amendment to the Company and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), which pushes for the establishment of State Corporate Affairs Commissions that will be empowered to register business names.

The CAMA Bill is one of the 11 Priority bills aimed by the Eighth Senate to restructure the national economy and put it back on the path of job creation. The priority economic bills are being planned to be passed alongside the 2017 budget.

On Thursday, the Senate will continue its line-by-line consideration of the Report of the Committee on Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), following the adjournment of debate on the issue during the December 6, 2016.

Also, another economic priority Bill, the Nigerian Ports and Harbors Bill of 2017, is listed on the Notice Paper for third reading. During the debate on the economy in September last year, the Senate noted that the operation and administration of Nigeria’s Federal Ports remains a major revenue-generating agency for the country.

In this regard, the Nigerian Ports and Harbors Bill was listed as one of the bills that could help implement transparency and accountability in the management and collection of revenues accrued from our ports.

Also on Thursday, a motion to address the alarm raised by one of the Senators that Boko Haram insurgents dislodged from Borno and Adamawa States are regrouping in Taraba State will be discussed and a position taken by the Senate on the issue.

Wellbeing Foundation Africa Marks Armed Forces Remembrance Day Nigeria - Provides Mamacare Antenatal-Postnatal Care And Counsel To Armed Forces Wives Nationwide

On Remembrance Day, we salute the honour, courage, sacrifice and dedication of our nation's Armed Forces, the men and women who have dedicated their lives in protecting our country and its citizens. Despite the insurgency that our country has faced in the Northeast, the Nigerian Armed Forces, with the Federal Government’s support, has remained steadfast in maintaining peace and safety in our country, commendably.

As we remember our fallen heroes, we equally recognise the plight of veterans that return from active service injured and scarred from the battlefield . We should do more to support our men and women veterans to re-enter society and their home communities successfully through training, counseling and education programs to help them become more employable and be more open minded in accepting them for jobs.

Through our Wellbeing Foundation Africa's Mamacare Midwives classes which deliver the WHO recommended 8 antenatal care appointments to over 350 women weekly at Lagos State and Kwara State based military hospitals and barracks through our MamaCare Antenatal and Postnatal Programme, we are happy to be able to help the wives of the uniformed men through their monthly journey from pregnancy to birth and beyond, and we continue to give them a continuum of care and counsel.

Our countrymen also should be given psycho-social counselling and support after their time in active service. Many face post-traumatic stress and depression and need professional counselling for them to heal. We must show our gratitude for their hard work, by supporting them socially, psychologically and economically.

To our Armed Forces men and women, we are ever grateful and recognise your noble efforts. Thank you and God bless you. - @ToyinSaraki

*We Appreciate Contributions of Armed Forces to Nation Building, Says Saraki*

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has commended officers and men of the nation's armed forces for their tremendous contributions to the survival and development of the country.

Speaking today (Friday) at the National Mosque, Abuja, where he represented President Muhammadu Buhari at the Jummah service held to commemorate the 2017 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, Saraki said the nation and her leaders will continue to appreciate the military and provide for the welfare of its members.

"Apart from the fact that the military symbolises the unity, strength, relevance and sovereignty of Nigeria, the men of the armed forces have helped to keep the country safe and help to ensure that our various diversities are sources of strength rather than division.

"Nobody would have imagined where we would have been if our military do not rise to the occasion every time that we face threats of internal and external aggression. These men continue to face the fire to ensure that the people of the North-eastern part of the country are not subjected to the unreasonable dictates of Boko Haram insurgents.

" It is for these reasons that on occasions like this when we remember our heroes past, all men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces who laid down their lives during the first and second world wars, the Civil War, the various internal disturbances like the Boko Haram, the entire country should unite to appreciate our military and pray for safety as well as victory for the men still at the battle fronts.

" I use this occasion to congratulate President Muhammadu Buhari and all the members of the military for the progress they have made in routing the Boko Haram insurgents out of the North East and restoring peace and stability. As a government, we will continue to provide for the welfare, training and development of the armed forces so that they will continue to excel in their duties", Saraki stated.

http://www.dailytrust.com.ng/news/general/we-appreciate-contributions-of-armed-forces-to-nation-building-says-saraki/180602.html

*Nigerians Commend Senate and Saraki for Quick Response to Aviation Crisis*

Following the announcement on the President of the Senate’s private handle stating that the Minister of State for Aviation, Former Senator Hadi Sirika, would be briefing the Senate on the proposed six-week closure of the Abuja Airport, and the treatment of passengers by airline operators, Nigerian Twitter users, today commended the Senate and the Senate President, for the Senate’s quick response.

Recall that on Tuesday, on Tuesday, January 10th, the first sitting of the Upper Chamber in 2017, the Senate passed a Motion, which called on the Senate Committee on aviation to thoroughly investigate the root causes of the challenges in the aviation industry; urged the Federal Aviation Authority to immediately put in place the necessary regulatory mechanisms to arrest the dwindling fortunes in the industry; and urged the Consumer Protection Commission to take the necessary steps to protect the rights and privileges of Nigerian passengers.

In tweets to the Senates @NGRSenate account and the Senate President’s @Bukola Saraki account, Yusuf Bashirat Boyi, who uses the handle @GovBashirat said “@bukolasaraki swifts to action on the big issues on our aviation section this shows how patriot[ic] the 8th @NGRSenate is, kudos to you guys.”

Another user, Mufasa, with the handle, @TheNGRInvasion, commended the Senate and Saraki saying “you've done well. Acting fast was not only necessary, it might have just saved some lives.”

Baba Fesfes, whose handle is @Babafes2, weighed in on the issue, stating that the safety of the people should come first in the Senate’s interaction with the Minister on the issues in the aviation sector.

Other Twitter users like @OnyekachiAjibo , urged the Senate not to allow for the complete shutdown of the airport, stating that he had “Never seen a thing like that.”

The Senate live-tweeted and live-broadcasted its interaction with the Minister of State on its Twitter and Facebook handles respectively.

Abuja airport closure.

Minister of Aviation will appear TODAY 10:30am in @NGRSenate to explain rational behind the #ABVClosure

WATCH LIVE

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1225684357486904&id=900594889995854

#TodayInPlenary

*SENATE PROCEEDINGS FOR WEDNESDAY 11TH JANUARY, 2017.*

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu presides over Plenary. He takes the official prayers and leads the Senate into today's proceedings.
Senanator Kabir Marafa moves for the approval of the votes and proceedings of Tuesday 10th January 2017 and Senator Adamu Abdullahi seconds.

*PETITIONS*

Senators Ben Murray-Bruce and Foster Ogola in a Point of Order lay their petitions from their respective constituencies. The Petitions are referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions #EthicsPPPCttee for further legislative action.

*POINT OF ORDER*

1. Former Senate Leader, Ali Ndume rises to speak on the circumstances surrounding his replacement as Leader of the Senate.
Senator Ali Ndume says he was shocked that 38 of his colleagues in APC signed the documents passing a vote of no confidence on him. "Three times i offered to resign as Senate Leader, but you all wanted me to stay. But I believe God's time is the best. If this happened to me today, it could be Ekweremadu tomorrow, we must protect the integrity of the Senate" - Ali Ndume

2. Senator James Manager in his Point of Order calls the attention of the Senate to the demise of Senator Francis Okposo.
Senate now observes a minute silence on the demise of Senator Francis Okposo. Burial arrangements & visitation to his family also announced.
3. Senator Marafa rises to speak on Order 41. He says due process was followed in the removal of Senator Ali Ndume as Senate Leader.
"I am a proponent of the Rule of Law. What we did yesterday was not a breach of the rule of law" - Senator Kabiru Marafa

*PRESENTATION OF REPORTS*

1. Report of the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions on various petitions before it by Senator Obinna Ogba

*CONSIDERATION OF REPORT*

1. Report of the Committee on Public Account on the Screening of Mr Anthony Mkpe Ayine for appointment as Auditor General of the Federation. Senator Andy Uba (Anambra South) reads the committee's reports and recommendations.
Senator Binta Garba speaks against the nomination saying Mr. Ayine is an Auditor General for a Local Government in Cross Rivers on Level 14 and ought to be on Level 17. She said the Head of Service is also from Cross Rivers and this negates the spirit of Federal Character.Senator Akpabio in disagreeing with Senator Binta Garba says "the position was advertised and many people applied. Mr. Ayine came first".
Senate Leader Ahmed Lawan says the petitions brought against Mr. Ayine holds no water and that "fresh ideas are needed from an outsider".

*CONFIRMATION OF NOMINATION*

Senate now resolves to the Committee of the whole to consider the report and nomination of Mr. Anthony Ayine as Auditor General of the Federation. Senate reverts to plenary and Mr. Anthony Ayine's appointment as the Auditor-General of the Federation is confirmed.
DSP Ike Ekweremadu congratulates Mr. Ayine on his appointment and thanked the Public Ccounts Committee for doing a good job. "We believe he will strengthen that position now that the country is fighting corruption" - DSP Ekweremadu comments.

*MOTIONS*

1. The Motion on the Ban on the Importation of Vehicles through the Land Borders into the Country sponaored by Senator Jbrin Barau and co-sponsorsed by Senators Kabiru Gaya, Shehu Sani, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi and Ali Wakili.
Senate notes that the decision to stop importation of vehicles into the Country by #LandBorders will lead to the loss of about 500,000 jobs. Senate also notes that given the ramification of such a policy on the economy, it is not economically expedient to ban vehicle importation.
Senator Ali Ndume decries FG's failure to engage stakeholders and says the policy will render small businesses ineffective. He adds that "Lagos is over congested, other ports are not utilised". Senator Dino Melaye says "When formulating such policies, the welfare of the people and the socio-economic effect must be considered. Nigerian customs should show capacity in managing our border and enhance capacity to stop illegal movement of vehicles".
"Government must put on its thinking cap and stop churning out policies that affect the masses negatively" - Senator Sam Egwu contributes. Senator Theodore Orji says "We don't listen to public opinions. It is very difficult for anyone to purchase new vehicles now". Senator Shehu sani in his own contributions say "Nigeria is not an ordinary Country, we have a duty to our continent and our sub-region. The policy favours those that have stakes in importation of Vehicle through the Sea. We are closing land border not to encourage Local production but to encourage importation through the Sea".
Senators Olugbenga Ashafa, Kabiru Gaya, and Yusuf Abubakar all contribute to the ban on importation of Vehicles through the #LandBorders and Senate Accordingly resolves to:
i. Call on the Customs Service to suspend further action on its policy of an outright ban on the importation of vehicles through our land borders as from 1st January, 2017.
ii. Mandate the Senate C'ttee on Customs to investigate the circumstances that led to the sudden decision of the FG on Vehicle Importation.
iii. Urge the FG to consider the regulation of vehicle importation by approving an entry point in each of the geopolitical zones that have international land border(s) in the country.
Senator Ben Murray-Bruce says "people appointed to do this job are not qualified," he appealed to President Buhari to relief or redeploy them as Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu thank his colleagues for their contributions & says that he hopes govt will respect the view and wishes of Nigerians.

2. The Motion on the need to resolve the Ladoke Akintola University Strike by Senator Monsurat Sunmonu #ReOpenLautech
Senate notes that workers of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology have been on strike since 9th June, 2016 over salary issues. Senate also notes that LAUTECH is jointly owned by Oyo and Osun, the two States that constituted the old Oyo State before Osun was excised. The challenges in fulfilling the shared funding responsibility caused workers to shutdown the institution. Senate is worried that the strike action is causing untold hardship and delay to the education, livelihood and future of the students.
Senate also notes that the students have become innocent victims of the collateral damage of the strike and their futures are at stake as Senate accordingly resolves to:
i. Implore Oyo and Osun states to expedite action towards resolving the issues and keep the public updated.
ii. Encourage staff of LAUTECH to return to work in the interest of the students; and
iii. Urge the students to be patient and not lose hope in public institutions
DSP Ike Ekweremadu thanked Senator Monsurat Sunmonu for the Motion to #ReopenLAUTECH and emphasises the need to look into the welfare of the students.

*CONSIDERATION OF BILL - SECOND READING*

1. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Motor Vehicles Third Party Insurance 2004 to facilitate the accomplishment of objectives of compulsory Third Party Insurance and for related matters, 2017 (SB. 276). By Senator Umaru I. Kurfi.

The Bill passes second reading and is now referred to the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions for further legislative action.

*ADJOURNMENT*

Senate Leader now moves that other items on the Order Paper be stood down to another Legislative day. Minority Leader seconds.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu puts the question and Senate is adjourned to Thursday 12th January, 2017.

*CCT Trial: FG’s Prosecutor Begs to ‘Re-Examine’ Witness, After Witness Gives Contradictory Statement

Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), the Federal Government’s Chief Prosecutor in the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) trial against Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, today begged the court to re-examine the government’s primary witness, Michael Wetkas, an operative of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Jacobs, in his comments, stated that Wetkas had made some ambiguous statements regarding bank transfers and ownership of the properties, No. 15A and B, MacDonald Street, Ikoyi, Lagos State.

Commenting on Jacobs request, Barrister Atedze Agwaza, told Jacob that his request could be seen as an attempt to make the witness alter his initial statement, urging him to consider using other prosecution witnesses to make his point.

In a similar regard, Justice Dan Ladi Umar, the Chairman of the CCT, alleged that Jacobs request to re-examine the witness could lead to the witness changing his initial statement, wherein he (Wetkas) stated that he was unsure whether the bank transfers in question included service charges, and that during the course of his investigation of the properties in Ikoyi, he never confirmed if No. 15A and 15B Macdonald street, were one property, or two.

After much back-and-forth, the counsels to the Senate President, acquiesced to Jacobs demand for re-examination, on the condition that they would be given the opportunity to cross-examine the witness as well after the prosecution has re-examined.

CCT Chairman also refused the request by the lead prosecutor for DAY to DAY trial saying he court has other matters to attend to as case was adjourned till Tuesday 17th

END
#

#TodayInPlenary
*SENATE PROCEEDINGS FOR TUESDAY 10TH JANUARY, 2017.*

Its the first legislative day for year 2017 in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Senate President Bukola Saraki leads the Senate leadership into plenary. He takes the official prayer as the chambers sets for the day’s proceedings.

*POINT OF ORDER*
1. Senator Sekibo comes under order 43 to thank all Senators for getting @inecnigeria to conduct rerun election held on December 10 in Rivers State. Senate President Bukola Saraki replied Senator Sekibo that it is good to see that INEC went ahead to conduct the election.

*PRESENTATION OF REPORTS*
1. Senator Andy Uba tables the report of the Committee on Public Accounts on the screening of a new Auditor General of the Federation.

2. Senator Nafiz, standing in for Senator Ahmed Sani Yerima lays report of the Committee on Marine Transport on the National Inland Water Ways Authority Act Cap N47 2004 (Repeal & ReEnactment) 2016 & the Nigerian Ports & Harbours Bill 2016.

*CONFIRMATION OF NOMINEES*
The Report of the Committee on Power, Steel Development and Metallurgy on the Screening of the Chairman & Commissioners for the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission is considered.

While Professor Akintunde has been rejected as nominee for Chairman of the Board of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission for failure to attend the screening, Sanusi Garba, Nathan Rogers Shatti, Moses Arigu, Dafe C. Akpeneve, Professor Frank Okafor and Dr Musiliu O. Oseni all cleared into the NERC Board.

Sen. Mohammed Hassan raises an observation from the provisions of the Electric Power Reform act section 41 subsection 4 that the Senate cannot approve only five Commissioners and a Vice Chairman for the NERC without the Chairman of the board inclusive.

Deputy Senate Leader says it is a very straight forward report that since the Chairman did not appear it may be that he is not interested. Senate however resolves to clear those who are on ground and request that @NGRPresident sends another name for the Chairman’s Position.

Senate President Bukola Saraki calls for Senate to go into committee of the whole for consideration of the Report on Nominees of NERC. Senate now in the Committee of the Whole confirms the nominees into the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission Board.

Senate now votes to reject Professor Akinwande Akintunde as a nominee of Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission.

Senator Isah H. Misau says there is a standard and anyone who is inexperienced should not be confirmed. Senate President Bukola Saraki adds "I congratulate the nominees, we hope they will live up to the expectations of Nigerians & bring solutions to our power problem”.

*MOTIONS*
Senate now moves to take the motions on the Order Paper.

1. Motion on the Planned Closure of the Abuja Airport sponsored by Senator Hope Uzodinma and five other Senators .

Senate notes with concern the decision of FAAN to close the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja for Six weeks from March 6, 2017 to carry out repairs. Senate is worried that a 6 weeks outright closure of a major airport and the only airport in the FCT can trigger untold hardships on air travelers. Senate is also aware of the logistics & security challenges the diversion of Abuja bound flights to Kaduna will throw up. Senate is determined to explore all other possible options that can avert the planned total closure of the strategic National Port for 6weeks.

Senator Anyanwu says "there was a repair on John F Kennedy Airport and people still traveled,we should invite the Aviation Minister and find solutions”.

DSP Ike Ekweremadu seconds the motion saying "many countries have repaired Airports without closure and many lives has been lost on Kaduna road. There is need to repair the runway but I don't agree with closure of the Airport".

"I am disappointed with the approval of the closure; we should make necessary consultations and find alternative solutions to it" says Senator Bala Ibn Na'Allah. Senator Barnabas Gemade agrees and says "I will suggest that we should take the shutdown in piece meal, we can do repairs 36hours in a week or on Saturdays".

"I lost my Police orderly last week in an accident because of the bad road,we should not divert people to ply that road" - Senator Akpan Bassey contributes as Senator Dino Melaye says “This will embarrass us as a country. It will affect us economically,politically and socially. Our Aviation intellectuals must think.

Senator Shehu Sani says “The elites are running away from the problems they created. They have created hell & want to live in paradise, if the road is bad they do not want to go there. Senator @shehusani also disagrees that Kaduna is ready to accommodate Nigerians.

Senate resolves to invite the Ministers of Transportation, State Aviation, Works, Power & Housing & FCT, Chief of Air staff & MD of FAAN & NAMA to meet with the Senate & provide details on the planned closure & explore other options that can avoid a total closure to meet with the Senate in few days.

Senate President Bukola Saraki thanks the sponsors of the motion saying that it is not done in that manner anywhere and he interest of the country stands.

2. The Motion on the Recent Killings in Southern Kaduna sponsored by Senator Danjuma La'ah

#SouthernKaduna district is a zone of peaceful communities that accommodates all Nigerians and oreigners alike and not hostile to any group. Senate is aware that communities such as Amban, Gaska, Dangoma,Tsonje, Pasankori,Gidan Waya & Farin Gada is under serious attack.

Senate is concerned that the killings of citizens of #SouthernKaduna amounts to serious violations of human rights. Senate is aware that 808 persons were killed in 53 villages across 4 local government areas while 57 were injured. Farm produce estimated at 5.5 billion Naira was destroyed & a total of 1,422 houses & 16 churches were burnt during the attack.

Senate observes one minute silence for the repose of the souls of the deceased victims of the #SouthernKaduna killings.

Senate calls on Federal Government to take urgent measures to secure the rights to life, security & dignity of citizens of #SouthernKaduna. Senate urged the FG to carry out an effective investigation & bring perpetrators to justice & rebuild the ravaged communities of the #SouthernKaduna District.
Senate also urged the Federal Government to establish a Joint Security Patrol of Military,Police,Civil Defence & Civilian JTF for constant Patrol & surveillance of the #SouthernKaduna district.

3. Motion on the Urgent need to halt the Incessant Flight Cancellations, Delays & ill Treatment of Passengers by Airline Operators sponsored by Sen Bala Ibn Na’Allah.

Senate notes with deep concern the rising level of flight delays and cancellations that have become prevalent in aviation industry lately.

Senator Ben Murray-Bruce says "the problems in the Aviation sector is not money issues but corruption and undue interference of the government. We need to privatize the entire sector of economy". "The Government must look into the price hike of Airfares, we must protect the interest of the masses" Senator Matthew Urhoghide adds.

Senate President Bukola Saraki says the Senate must begin to stand in the gap between services rendered to the citizens & the service providers for quality service delivery. "I hereby mandate the Senate Committee on Aviation to do their findings and report back".

*ADJOURNMENT*
Deputy Leader moves that other items on the order paper be stepped down to another legislative day and Minority Leader seconds.

Senate President Bukola Saraki reads a letter from the APC caucus on the change in the Senate Leadership announcing Senator Ahmed Lawan as the new Caucus Leader.

Senate President Bukola Saraki puts the question and plenary is adjourned to Wednesday 11th January 2017.

#GavelBangs

WELCOME BACK SPEECH BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA, HIS EXCELLENCY, SENATOR (DR) ABUBAKAR BUKOLA SARAKI (CON) TO SENATORS OF THE 8TH SENATE ON RESUMPTION FROM 2016 END OF THE YEAR RECESS ON TUESDAY, 10 JANUARY, 2017.



Protocol:



1. Distinguished colleagues, it is heart warming for me to see you back in good health, refreshed and energised for the work ahead. Let me on behalf of myself and the entire leadership wish you and all Nigerians a very happy new year.



2. 2016, was a very challenging year for all of us. But I assure you that the work we have done so far is gradually setting the stage for a greater and better 2017. Let me therefore, begin this address by thanking every one of you for the hard work and dedication exhibited in the last quarter of last year to keep the promise we made to all Nigerians that we would pass laws that would make the difference in their lives.



3. It is already historic that within the last quarter, which incidentally is the second quarter of this session, we all rolled up our sleeves, with sweat on our brows and successfully passed 49 bills through 3rd reading and 68 bills through second reading. This is a record setting feat, which has never been matched in the history of the National Assembly. That within a period of 4 months in the middle of the term of any past National Assembly, 49 bills are passed in a single quarter.



4. I want to especially thank all the committees who worked tireless to help us achieve this milestone. Let me also thank our President Muhammadu Buhari for showing faith with the work we are doing here at the National Assembly as he has by today signed into law 16 of the bills we have passed into law already.



5. Distinguished colleagues, as long as our economy is still in recession, our work is not done. Because our people are still being laid off; so long as factories are closing shop, for as the hardship in the land continues to bite harder, investment continues to dwindle and the foreign exchange market remains fragmented, I will be demanding even much more from us to get all our economic reform bills passed. Ideally we would like to see them pass together with the 2017 budget. Let me therefore urge all our committees involved with our priority bills to double efforts to ensure that by the end of the first quarter of this year we will have these bills ready.



6. We promise to pass our priority economic reform bills to help aid our economic recovery. This is a promise we must keep. There are already, new NASSBER research findings projecting that our priority bills, will have an output impact equivalent to an average of 6.87% of GDP over a 5-year period on the economy. The average annual growth in jobs is estimated at approximately 7.55 million additional employments as well as an average of 16.42% reduction in Nigeria’s poverty rate. Over the projected 5-year period, it is suggested that the reforms, which these bills would engender, may add an average of N3.76 Trillion to National incomes (National Disposable Income was N85.62 trillion in 2014), equivalent to 4.39% of 2014 figures.

7. These statistics make the delivery of these bills imperative and confirm evidently that we have got our priorities right so far. It is hoped that as we begin to turn our focus now towards the passage of the 2017 budget, these bills will be implemented simultaneously with the budget to enable us exit the recession quickly.



8. It is therefore imperative that we immediately begin work earnestly on the MTEF to ensure passage by the end of the week. In this way, consideration and debate on the 2017 budget will immediately follow in the 3 “sitting days” of the next week. It is our hope that we will with this budget begin the implementation of the report of the Committee on Budget Reforms, which has since submitted its report. This will enable more Nigerians participate in the budget consideration process, deepen the review and create the necessary efficiencies we expect from our budget implementation.



9. Distinguished colleagues, there is hardly a point reiterating the importance of making the 2017 budget the most successful budget we have ever passed, neither is it important to emphasise the need to have this budget back on the desk of the executive on time for implementation. As you may be aware, based on the recommendations of the Budget Reform Committee, we are working towards ensuring that budgets are prepared and submitted timely, so that implementation will follow a regular fiscal circle. In this regard, the National Assembly will not tolerate agencies of government not submitting their budgets within the budget period. This is why I urge all agencies yet to submit their budgets to do so quickly as budgets not received within time may have to wait for the next budget circle.



10. The budget is the most critical instrument within our public context for economic reordering. It is an effective tool to stimulate the economy, ensure an even distribution of development across the country; and give the “Made In Nigeria” initiative the impetus to survive and in the long term, sustain itself. In this particular regard, the Senate has played its part by passing the amendment to the Procurement Act for which we are awaiting concurrence by the House and for the immediate assent of the President. Once this happens, we will not rest at simply assigning it back to the relevant committee but rather, we all will play our part to ensure that all government agencies comply with the law. I for one, intend to put the full weight of my Office behind this initiative to build the trust and ensuing patronage of Nigerians in goods and products made by our own people. I truly believe that this is the singular policy that can play a key role in getting out of this recession, provide the needed jobs; and keep the economy going.



11. The issue of policy inconsistencies remains an issue that continues to challenge our business environment. I have in the past argued and still hold the view that for a private sector-led economy to thrive, we need to reform our policy environment to give investors and our businessmen and women ample adjustment time to make informed investment decisions rather than have uncertainties. This is especially important in the agriculture and solid mineral sectors where we have significant economies of scale and opportunities for diversification of our economy. In view of this we shall, in consultation with stakeholders across board be looking at legislative measures that could increase the potential for a more stable policy environment starting with the agricultural businesses and solid mineral resources sectors of our economy.



12. Distinguished Colleagues, before we left for the break, myself, a select few of us and stakeholders in the power sector met to get an understanding of why no progress has been made thus far despite the best intention; and the revelations were mind-boggling. There had been errors in the privatisation process and the model by which the power sector is being operated—whether at generation or distribution—will never take us where we need to be. It has failed and nobody appears willing to tackle the issue head-on towards a permanent resolution. I have mandated the Senate Committee on Power to continue the consultation with the relevant parties to forge a path to solving our crippling power deficit. After all, if we are going to drive Nigerian industry, we need to resolve this and fast.



13. My dear colleagues, while we have our attention on the economy and are working with sweat on our brows to improve it for the betterment of our people, we cannot lose sight of the callous and growing circle of violence across the country, especially now in southern Kaduna. We condemn in totality to depravity being exhibited on the streets of Kafanchan. This Senate will not pay lip service to it neither will it sit idly by and watch innocent Nigerians being slaughtered on the basis of their religion, ethnic group or political persuasion. No, we will not stand aloof. Let me therefore; use this opportunity to call on the leadership in the state to use its authority and constitutional mandate to bring to immediate halt the growing orgy of violence that has enveloped Southern Kaduna. This new theatre of conflict is one too many and must be nipped in the bud. Thankfully, a motion to this effect is already before us. We will ensure a thorough investigation is carried out to unravel the issues and advise government appropriately on the matter in order to ensure that all those found culpable are severely dealt with irrespective of who may be behind them. This will ensure there is no repeat of this madness and assure the people of Kaduna that injustice and impunity will not be allowed to triumph over our collective will to maintain our national unity and coherence.



14. The Petroleum Industry continues to be critical to the health of our economy. This is why, the Senate is urging the Executive to take positive steps to begin pen and meaningful dialogue with those aggrieved in the Niger Delta to proffer lasting solutions that will help us take advantage of the emerging international oil market outlook to revamp our economic fortunes. The proposed engagement we suggest must be sincere, constructive, open, and confidence building. This Senate is willing to assist and play whatever role necessary to facilitate a successful agreement that would help us see to the end if the lingering conflict.



15. Distinguished colleagues, I would want us during this session to also pay attention to the protection and preservation of consumer rights. The current situation where consumers’ rights are violated and treated with indignity must stop. We are prepared to defend the right of the Nigerian to receive a superior quality of product or service purchased with their hard-earned resources. We will not stand for the exploitation of consumers and we have already shown that we are unafraid to tackle such an issue whether perpetrated by public or private sector service-providers; as was the case of the intended data tariff hike proposed by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) which we moved swiftly to prevent. We want people to know that they can run to us and we will in turn rise in defense of the Nigerian consumer who should be respected as a driving force in the economy.



16. I cannot end this brief remark of mine without emphasising on the need for us to pursue and conclude the on going constitutional review process which we will conclude by the end of this session in March. We must do this to ensure that our people begin to enjoy the benefits of the intended reforms which will help strengthen our unity, increase our prosperity and opportunity as we as expand our liberty and happiness across the country.



17. Finally, distinguished colleagues, let me thank you all for your unflinching focus and perseverance in the way you have conducted yourself as we march towards the attainment of most of our laid priorities. Though there have been many distractions on the way and unmerited traducers unleashed at you to weaken your resolve, you have remained resolute and un-detachable to our collective goal. This is a reflection of what can be achieved if we keep the focus before the end of our tenure. Like a said when we started this journey, history beckons and we cannot afford to lose sight of the goal.





18. Thank you for your attention and God bless Nigeria.









(Dr.) Abubakar Bukola Saraki

President, Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

GROUP EXPLAINS MM’S OPEN-DOOR POLICY FOR THE POOR

The attention of the MM Support Group (MMG) – the group responsible for the advocacy
and socio-economic programmes of Hon. Moshood Mustapha (the Special Adviser to the Senate President on Inter-Parliamentary Special Duties and Protocols Matters) – has been
drawn to the malicious publication by an online publication, nairaland.com on MM’s charity
programme on new year day.

The online outfit had reported falsely that the Senate President, Distinguished Senator
(Dr.) Abubakar Bukola Saraki (CON) had turned his residence in Ilorin to a distribution centre
for charity during festive period.

As the media office of the Senate President has refuted, nothing is farther from the truth.
But we still consider it proper to put the record-straight.

The photograph that was attached to the false report on the Senate President was indeed,
that of the philanthropic programme of Hon. Mustapha at his Ilorin residence on January 1,
2017. Hon. Mustapha was visible in that photograph.

On new year day, the MMG, as it had done over the years, distributed food items and cash
to the vulnerable members of the society, especially widows and elderly women. At no point did any member of the group said that the programme, which took place at Hon. Mustapha’s compound, was sponsored by anyone.

Hon. Mustapha has been doing this consistently for over 20 years during Muslim festivals of eid-fitr (Ramadan) and Eid-Kabir and the New Year. He opens his door for the needy and celebrates with them. This year, because he was at home on New Year day, he physically
and joyfully participated in the distribution of the gifts to the poor who appreciated his
disposition.

Knowledgeable people know that this consistent act of charity by MM is not for political purpose. It is a way of appreciating Allah’s blessings to him by giving back to the society the bounties He, the Almighty, has bestowed on Honourable Mustapha. MM appreciates the Leader, the Senate President Abubakar Bukola saraki (CON) whose
charity knows no bound and who has encouraged his followers to always take care of the welfare of the down-trodden in the society.

MM is happy to compliment the Leader and,
like his mentor, his charity undertaking, is not for politics; he seeks only Allah’s rewards.

Another Initiative Against the Economic Recession 

  By Bamikole Omisore

On Monday, the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar  Bukola Saraki, announced the “Made-in-Nigeria Challenge” - an offshoot of his campaign to stimulate the public’s appeal for Nigerian-made  goods.
 
Basically, the aim of the “Challenge” is to encourage local manufacturers by giving them the necessary incentive and support needed to grow and compete with their foreign counterparts.
 
The campaign encourages Nigerians to send in a 45-second to three-minute video promo of a product the country is currently importing, but which can be produced with at least 70 percent local content. For instance, local manufacturers of toothpicks,  tomato paste, fruit juice, textiles, technological implements and products that add value to agricultural production may enter the Challenge by using the hashtag #MadeInNigeria on any social media page or by uploading on YouTube or directly sending an email to min@senatepresident.gov.ng before March 8th. The winners will be selected to participate in the Made in Nigeria Fair and Business Roundtable.

After receipt of the entries, a group of experts and industry operators put together by the Senate President will review the videos and verify the claims therein. The shortlisted manufacturers will be invited to Abuja to showcase their products at a Fair that will be co-hosted by civil society groups and some other development partners. This fair will also have in attendance guests from different government agencies and investors who will be able to address the participants on how  to overcome the challenges they might be facing in successfully running Small and medium Scale Enterprises. The diplomatic community and foreign media like will also be invited to the event.
 
Earlier in 2016, Senator Saraki pledged to support legislation that would make it mandatory for the government to patronise local products. This promise, which was made during his attendance at the Made in Aba Trade Fair, resulted in the passage of the amendments to the Public Procurement Act. These amendments contained a provision that compels Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to give preference to local manufacturers and suppliers in all their procurements. The amendment also increased the mobilisation fee to contractors as well as shortened the number of days in the federal government’s procurement process.
 
Additionally, last February, while speaking with representatives of Aba Manufacturers Association, led by Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe, Saraki remarked that some local products were more sophisticated than imported ones, however, more effort had to be made to ensure that such goods are patronised to allow their manufacturers to succeed.
 
”This is the only way we can create jobs, solve the problem of unemployment and stop the growing army of aggrieved youths who pose danger to society. We can do it. We have a population that translates to a ready market. This is how we can genuinely help our people,The chairmen of our relevant committees are being put on notice to ensure that they focus their oversight on these areas. We must make sure that government agencies patronise Nigerian manufacturers. For example, the armed forces should be purchasing and using foot wears produced  in the various industries in Aba and other places.”, the Senate President said.
 
After Saraki’s appeal to government agencies to patronise local products, the army placed an order for 50 thousand pairs of Made-in-Aba boots. Also, the army ordered for armoured security vehicles from Innoson Manufacturing Vehicles (IMV) based in Nnewi. In the same vein, the Nigerian Air Force now has an agreement with the IMV for the refurbishing of its aircraft.
 
Saraki is not relenting in his determination to promote local industries. He in fact desires that Nigerians take over the ownership of the advocacy campaign. The present Challenge is aimed at engaging and encouraging Nigerians who have an eye for local production - goods that are ready substitute for imported ones and that can add value to the economy - in all spheres.
 
In this charge, in December 2016, Saraki met with Mr Sam Hart, leader of the delegation of Made-in-Aba Manufacturers and also with Mr Velcroz, a local shoemaker. And for his steadfastness in promoting Nigerian goods, the Senate President was named #MadeInAba/#MadeInNigeria Ambassador.
 
The Senate President is interested in connecting more local manufacturers from Osogbo, Kabba, Abeokuta, Ilorin, Mbaise and many other cities across the country with potential investors and government agencies. 
 
It remains a strange phenomenon that Nigerians are crazy about foreign goods when the country is blessed with an array of raw materials that can be converted to finished products.

The local Adire and Kampala can replace the school uniforms of pupils in primary and secondary schools. There are different species of trees in Nigeria — which makes it alarming that we continue to import furniture, matches and toothpicks. Again, we import starch when we have cassava in large quantities; we import tomato paste when our lands are good for growing tomato.

Now, with the official launch of the “Made-in-Nigeria Challenge”, which is a part of the Senate’s strategy to bring Nigerians into the business of law making, more efforts will be channelled into ensuring that government agencies comply with the newly amended Public Procurement Act, 2016 — once it is passed by the House, and signed into law by the President. The Made-in-Nigeria campaign will also make government agencies understand the Senate’s resolve to ensure compliance with the Public Procurement Act.
 
In this direction, the Senate will soon create a desk dedicated to making sure that the procurement law is respected by all and that Nigerians can always contact this desk if they feel they have been unfairly treated by any government agency in its procurement process.
 
Also, the newly inaugurated Legislative Compliance Committee, which is the first of its kind in the history of the legislature in Nigeria, was created to ensure all government agencies comply with the law and other resolutions of the Senate in an attempt to jumpstart the economy.
 
Taking the campaign beyond the shores of Nigeria, the Senate is poised to engage with representatives of the European Union and other development agencies and partness to find ways of giving Nigerian farm produce access to European and UK markets. 
 
In a time when nations are moving towards self-reliance and total economic dependence –  as evident in Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” campaign slogan - Saraki’s “Made-in-Nigeria” campaign is the antidote to Nigeria’s economic nightmare. It is also pertinent to mention that six months after the Senate passed the law to compel patronage for indigenous manufacturers, outgoing U.S. President Barack Obama last month signed a policy which compels American armed forces to purchase foot wears for her men and officers from only American companies located within American shores. Great minds think alike.
 
There  is no gainsaying the fact that when Nigerians buy local goods, there will be a multiplier effect on the economy. The local industries will grow, increase their capacities and employ more people; thereby cutting down Nigeria’s high unemployment figure. This will increase our Gross Domestic Product, imbue international confidence in the economy, re-energise the local currency, encourage foreign investment in the economy and generally improve the standard of living of citizens.

To add to this, the upper legislative chamber is aware that infrastructure is a key part of promoting local industries; hence it has amended the Railway Act to make room for private investors to invest in the sector. Railways are essential not only for the movement of people, but also for the conveyance of goods to and from different parts of the country. The senate under Saraki is also looking at making viable legislations for other key infrastructure such as power to give local industries the elixir of growth and competitiveness.

Already,  Nigerians across political divides and social classes have embraced the ‘Made in Nigeria’ initiative. With this, it is expected to help change the orientation of Nigerians. In fact, this is a campaign that may serve the dual purpose of boosting our collective patriotism and stregthning our pride in our motherland, Nigeria.

Omisore is Special Assistant to the Senate President on New Media.

PRESS RELEASE

KWSG TO PARTNER WITH ILORIN AIRPORT AUTHORITY

The Kwara State Government has pledged to put measures in place to support the operational efficiency of Ilorin International Airport through synergy with Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, FAAN.

The Secretary to the Government of Kwara State, Alhaji Sola Isiaka Gold who gave the assurance today while receiving the General Manager and the Chief Security Officer of the Airport, pledged the State Government’s support for the general improvement of the Airport.

He said the Kwara State Government is ready to collaborate with the management of the Airport Authority and other relevant agencies to enlighten intending pilgrims on anti-social behavior and practices in the State. The SSG emphasized that both the Government and the Airport Authority must work together to improve the operational standard of the Airport.

Alhaji Gold also expressed regret with what happened during the last Hajj Operation and urged the relevant security agencies to redouble efforts to prevent a re-occurrence.

Responding, the General Manager of the Airport, Alh Ibrahim AbdulAzeez, expressed appreciation and thanked the SSG for finding time to meet with the officials of the Airport and called on the State Government to look into the problems facing the management of the Airport.

According to the General Manager, the Airport Authority is equally ready to form a strong partnership with the State Government to move the Airport forward. He used the medium to call on the State Government for logistic support in the area of operational vehicles to ease the movement of security personnel in and around the Airport. He further explained that efforts are now on to acquire screening equipment and other items from the Federal Government to aid their operations.

He also appealed to the general public to avoid encroaching into the premises of the Airport.

Also speaking, the Chief Security Officer, Aviation Security, Alhaji Amao T Aderemi called on the State Government to come to the aid of the Airport management with the view of improving operational standard of the Airport.

Alh. Aderemi used the occasion to thank the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki for constituting a five man committee to monitor the last Hajj operation and suggested that such be replicated in the State.

The attention of the Media Office of the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has been drawn to an online post that claims thousands of Kwarans lined up at the private residence of the Senate President to receive a small quantity of rice and unspecified amounts of money.

For the avoidance of doubt, the gathering in question did not happen at the residence of Dr. Saraki, and was not sponsored, organized, attended or endorsed in any way by the Senate President.

This reported gathering was sponsored, organized and attended by Honorable Moshood Mustapha, a Special Adviser on Special Duties to the President of the Senate — in his own capacity as a private citizen of Kwara State. Additionally, this gathering was held at Honorable Mustapha’s private residence, which is located several kilometers away from the residence of Dr. Saraki.

Finally, it is important to note that Honorable Mustapha, as the owner of one of Kwara State’s foremost hotels is a man of means. In this regard, the aforementioned gathering was organized entirely of his own accord.


Signed:

Bamikole Omishore
Special Assistant on New Media to the President of the Senate

Governor Ahmed Pledges Support for Digital Broadcasting

The Kwara State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed has expressed his administration’s support for the ongoing digitization of the broadcasting industry in Nigeria.

Governor Ahmed gave the pledge while receiving the Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Mallam Ishaq Kawu Modibbo in his office on Tuesday.

He said that the Digital Switch Over (DSO) not only provides enormous opportunities for dissemination of information, education and entertainment to a vast audience, but also offers job opportunities for content producers and other supporting staff.

Continuing, Alhaji Ahmed stressed that the digital transition will elevate broadcasting in Nigeria to global standards. The governor further noted it is heartwarming that the digitization is taking place at a time the government has concluded plans to reposition all the state-owned media houses, starting with the procurement of digital equipment for Kwara State Television (KWTV).

Governor Ahmed congratulated the NBC DG on the achievement so far recorded under the digital switch over project and pledged his support for the actualization of total digital switch over in Kwara State.

Speaking earlier, the DG explained the DSO process and highlighted the opportunities it will create for producers, camera operatives, make-up artists, and technicians among others. He added that digital broadcasting offers additional advantages for operators, regulators and the end-users.

According to him, DSO will also facilitate more accurate ways of measuring audience size and ensure improved feedback from the public. He added that a digitized broadcast industry in Nigeria will feature state, regional and national stations.

Mallam Kawu noted that more jobs will be created for the youths with the take-off of digitization project across the country. He, therefore, solicited the support of the State government for the imminent flag-off of DSO in the North-central zone.

*@MINChallenge*


Today, as promised, we kick-start the soft launch of the #MadeInNigeria Challenge

This campaign is organised to showcase everyday products that are used by Nigerians and produced by Nigerians locally that serves as an alternative to imported products. The next few weeks, we hope to identify products and ideas that can be matched with investors and government agencies.                                                                                 
To wrap up the Challenge, in March, we will be inviting some of the finalist to a Made In Nigeria Roundtable at the Senate. This Roundtable will allow us, legislators, Government Agencies, business owners, and everyday Nigerian consumers to review and update the report of NASSBER, the National Assembly Business Environment Roundtable, which was held in 2016 to improve the ease of doing business in the country.

As part of Senate's oversight of government agencies, we will also use the opportunity to get feed back on the Public Procurement Act passed by Senate in 2016 which mandates government agencies to give preference to local manufacturers in Procurement of goods and services.

Good luck to all the participants. Be sure to use the hashtag #MadeInNigeria in all your submitted videos.

*Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki
President of The Senate, Federal Republic of Nigeria*

Saraki Promises to Intervene in Aviation Sector Facility Crisis

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Saturday pledged to intervene in the nation's aviation sector, which has suffered major setbacks, with the purported non-calibration of all 30 Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) and VHF Omnidirectional Ranges (VHFs) that are operational in the country.

In his response to a social media user, Adamu Taiwo Haruna, who tweeted at the Senate President’s @BukolaSaraki handle saying “SP @bukolasaraki all 30 Instrument Landing Systems & VORs in Nigeria are all out of calibration. This is a serious safety issue Sir,” Saraki responded  that he would personally take up  the issues with the aviation minister, SenayorHadi Sirika and heads of other agencies concerned.

“Thank you for the info[mation],” the Senate President responded via his personal handle, “Unfortunately the Chair Senate Aviation Committee, Sen Aliero is away but I will personally look into it right away.”

When pressed further by the user, who stated that the failure of the ILS and VORs in the aviation sector could lead to air crashes, the Senate President assured the online community that he would reach out to the Minister in-charge of the Aviation sector, in order to have him explain the purported failures in the system.


“I will reach out to the Minister and have him explain why this is so,” he said, “Be rest assured that I am on top of it.”

ILS's are Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), while VORs are VHF Omnidirectional Ranges. ILSs enable aircraft to land when pilots are unable to establish visual contact with the runway, while VORs help aircraft to stay on course during flights by receiving radio signals transmitted by a network of fixed ground radio beacons.

Twitter users who weighed in commended the Senate President’s response to the issue, with one social media user, @OlufemiAwoyemi, describing the Senate President’s responsiveness to issues as “Governance 101.”

In the past decade, Nigeria has suffered major aviation disasters, which have been caused by the negligence of the aviation authorities, and lapses by airlines that have led to fatal crashes

Saraki to Ahmed: Take care of my people for me, tolerate their shortcomings


Saraki to Ahmed: Take care of my people for me, tolerate their shortcomings
Date: 2016-12-24




Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed for the first time since he assumed office in 2011, has related the last conversation he had with the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki when the former Governor was leaving the state.
Gov Ahmed said this in an interview featured in the special December edition of Kwaraeve news published by Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS) to mark the 54th birthday anniversary of Saraki.
He said Saraki shortly after the handing over ceremony at the Metropolitan Square told him when they got to the Ilorin International Airport to prioritise the welfare of Kwarans and overlook their shortcomings.
The Governor who noted with nostalgia the parting words of the Senate President described the scenario as emotional for him. According to him, Saraki's utterances that day at the airport made him realised the enormity of the task ahead in the governance of the state.
He noted that Saraki has through his political positions projected the welfarist policy of the Saraki dynasty, which he said has metamorphosed to a 'movement'. While describing Saraki as a man who dearly cherish his people, Governor Ahmed added that the Senate President remains a futuristic leader and a consummate democrat who loves to brainstorm on issue.
"But he doesn't take no for answer no matter the challenge and believe there is solution to every problem", Ahmed said. On how Saraki has used his experience to contribute to governance in the state after his exit, Governor Ahmed said the state had benefited immensely from wisdom and input of Saraki.
He said "success in this regards can only be achieved through inclusive decision making process and this means relating with stakeholders and experienced leaders and elders in the state", he added. Ahmed was backed by Saraki, who served two terms from 2003 to 2011 as governor, to become his successor.
Before then, he had also worked under the former governor during their days at Societe General Bank of Nigeria (SGBN) and served as commissioner for Finance before he was moved to Ministry of Planning during Saraki's tenure.

Saraki Won't Condone Aides Breaking the Law

The attention of the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has been drawn to a statement issued today to the media by the Department of State Services (DSS) in which the Department raised allegations against Mr. Ugochinyere Ikenga, an aide to the Senate President.

Though the DSS has not officially informed the Senate President of the allegations against Ikenga but Dr. Saraki having read the statement now circulating online will want to make it clear that he will never condone any action by any of his aides which threatens the peace of the country or is against the provisions of the law.

Dr. Saraki hereby calls on the DSS to properly investigate the allegations against Mr. Ikenga and if he is found to have acted against the law, then the law should take its natural course.

Constituency Projects As Birthday Gift : The example of Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki. National Pilot December 19,2016. Pg 18. The Herald December 19,2016. Pg. 18. By Hon. Kayode Omotose

Isiaka: “I’m likely to relocate to Otte Etile and look after my aged parents, supervise my farm and come to work in Ilorin on daily basis and go back. Please thank the Turaki of Ilorin and President of the Senate Dr Bukola Saraki. We are very happy to that our road from Ballah to Otte Etile and Express Road is under construction “.

Omotose: ” Ehen Alhamdulilai. We shall deliver your message to him as well as that of the Daudu Ballah.

Isiaka: ”Honestly, it is only at this moment that I can begin to understand and appreciate your write to justify the issue of constituency projects for legislators”

This was the telephone conversation between me and Alhaji Isiaka , my very close friend of over thirty years

Omotose: “Courtesy of the SP, several road, water and electricity have kicked off in Kwara state The bang started with the ground breaking of the 1.5km Alfa Yahaya -Idigba-Gaa Aremu road. It is a concrete drainage for erosion control , earth work with full asphalt . Head of the community Ologbin of Adewole, Alhaji Oseni Hanafi defied the rains to attend.

Next was the Ballah – Otte Etile- express road in Asa Local Government. The Daudu Ballah, Alhaji Olarongbe Abdulkadir was full of gratitude to the SP; then Igbaja street, off Erin Ile road , Gaa Akanbi in Akanbi ward 1V in Ilorin South Local Government; Adewumi Abake road , off Agbabiaka road, Gaa Akanbi, also in Ilorin South ; then the Ubandawaki road that begins at Pakata roundabout and terminates at Government Girls Day Secondary school, near Jengbe market, Ilorin.

Then Balode road along Adio lodge, Oloje ; erosion control at Oke Oyi and in Okelele, both in Ilorin East.

In paying due diligence to the status of Government Secondary School,Ilorin, as a premier school in the North and the 13th oldest secondary school in Nigeria the 1. 2km road network is being constructed.

Beyond roads, President of the Senate also attracted a N300m contract for expansion and rehabilitation of Agba dam waterworks which was built by the colonial government in the early 1950s and upgraded by the Premier of the defunct Northern region the Sarduna of Sokoto Alhaji Sir Ahmadu Bello in 1959. The low lift and high lift pumps will be replaced in a brand new building

To further boost portable water N400m is set aside in this year’s budget to provide solar powered boreholes with standby generator while N250m is to repair all boreholes that have broken down.

These width of opportunities is a fallout of having the headship of the legislature in the person of Dr Bukola Saraki.

In truth constituency projects are meant to mitigate immediate problems that confront the electorates within a sphere. And it takes a genuine representative of the people who knows his onions to attend to it.

Drafters of the federal budget cannot have no absolute knowledge of the entire topography of everywhere. It takes the elected official who knows and is well placed to get the right project for his people. The bottom line is to make hay while the sun shine. As we often say in the parliament, there are no federal or state persons per se, everybody belongs to a local place

As the President of the Senate celebrates his 54th birthday what is important is for our people to support him in the task of piloting the affairs of the 1st arm of government.

Happy birthday our leader.”

Saraki To Launch Made in Nigeria Challenge in January

In his continued quest to provide a platform for the promotion of Made in Nigeria products in order to boost Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in the country, Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has informed of his plan to launch 'Made in Nigeria Challenge' in January 2017.

Saraki, in a statement signed by Bamikole Omisore, his special assistant on New Media, stated that the 'Made in Nigeria Challenge' initiative will afford entrepreneurs in the country opportunity to connect manufacturers that produce alternatives to imported products. 

The initiative, the Senate President stated, will not only assist upcoming entrepreneurs but open door of opportunities for established local manufacturers to compete in international markets.

"On 2nd of January 2017, my office will launch #MadeInNigeria challenge to connect investors to manufacturers that produce alternatives to imported products, since inception of the 8th Senate, we have championed and encouraged the patronage of #MadeInNigeria goods so as to jumpstart the economy and we have also amended the Public Procurement Act to support this agenda.

"In 2017, we intend to take #MadeInNigeria further by using legislation to discourage importation of goods that can be produced locally, take the advocacy directly to Nigerians, work with government agencies to create enabling environment and encourage Nigerians who have eyes for local production i.e. goods that are ready substitute to imported ones" the statement read.

"From January 2nd 2017, using hashtag #MadeinNigeria manufacturers can post 45 seconds to 3 minutes video of a product we are importing but that they can produce using at least 80 per cent local content. 

"Those shortlisted will be invited to a roundtable with investors and government agencies such as Bank of Industry (BoI), Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) and so on," he said.

END

http://nghubs.com/saraki-to-launch-made-in-nigeria-challenge-in-january-2017/

#Flash: *Corruption in Power Sector: Senate Vows To Unravel How N213bn  Power Intervention Fund Was Disbursed*

...To Hold Public Hearing on Poor Electricity Supply

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has urged the Senate Committee on Power, Steel Development and Metallurgy to conduct a public hearing into declining electricity generation in the country that currently stands at 3000 megawatts capacity.

Also, the public hearing is expected to verify the claims and counter claims of non-remittance of revenues between the Nigeria Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET), Electricity Distribution Companies (Discos) and Generation Companies (Gencos) as well as uncover how the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) disbursed the N213 billion intervention fund to the power sector. 

Saraki who spoke at the weekend during a special stakeholders meeting to proffer solutions to the worsening  electricity generation in the country said the public hearing should look at the role of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) which serves as Board members in the Discos and Gencos, thereby making it difficult for the BPE to effectively supervise and audit the electricity generation and distribution companies.

He had in his opening comments lamented the poor electricity supply in Nigeria and the consequences of the negative development in the efforts to move Nigeria out of the present economic recession.

He told the stakeholders in the power sector led by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Louis Edozien that the essence of the meeting was to proffer solutions to an imminent collapse of the electricity system  in the country.

Briefing the meeting, the Permanent Secretary, Edozien, lamented that power generation has gone down to 3000MW/H from a 7000MW/H generating capacity with a 12000MW/H connected load.

Edozien also said there was poor and declining revenue collection capacity as the Discos are remitting about 45 per cent of collectable revenue instead of the performance agreement target of 65 per cent.

He further cited low tariff and what he described as 'payment transparency and discipline' as some of the challenges facing electricity generation and distribution.

In their contributions at the meeting, representatives of gas producers and suppliers traced their inability to supply adequate gas to the electricity generating companies to vandalization and the inability of the GENCOs to pay for the already supplied products, insisting that the terms of gas supply and payment is on the basis of 'willing sellers and buyers'.

The gas producers and suppliers consisting mostly of SHELL Petroleum and TOTAL Petroleum complained of security challenges that usually result in the vandalization of their pipelines and hence their inability to meet demands in some cases. 

The meeting was shocked when s representative of NBET, Dr. Marilyn Amobi, who is the managing director and  chief executive officer, revealed that the DISCOs can't account for most of the revenue remitted to it by consumers due to what she described as 'bad behaviour', an euphemism for corruption.

She further said that revenue generated by NBET was better before the liberalization exercise  when compared to post-liberalization period, blaming it on lack of proper accountability and supervision of the DISCOs by BPE and lack of proper auditing.

Other stakeholders blamed the distribution companies for lack of compliance with the agreed terms on remitting generated revenues from consumers, manifesting in consumer discontent, payment default as well as unstructured and unserviced debts.

The complaint of lack of transparency in the remittance of revenues collected  prompted the Senate President to direct that a public hearing be conducted by the Senate Committee on Power, Steel Development and Metallurgy to identify the problems and make recommendations on the way forward.

College Unions Laud Gov. Ahmed’s Release of N892.4m To Tertiary Institutions
Members of staff unions at the Kwara State College of Education (COE), Oro have lauded the State governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed for the release of funds for the payment of outstanding salary arrears of staff of tertiary institutions in the State.
Recall that Governor Ahmed on Wednesday approved the release of N892, 482, 648.38 to five colleges of education in the State including COE, Oro to assist them in clearing backlog of workers’ salary arrears.
Comrade Adeyemi Babatunde, Secretary, Joint Action Committee of the three staff unions at the institution, including College of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), Non Academic Staff Union (NASU) and Senior Staff Union of Colleges of Education in Nigeria (SSUCOEN) in a statement issued after a congress meeting on Wednesday expressed the workers’ appreciation to the governor.
He noted that the approved funds will go a long way in cushioning the effect of the inability of the College management to pay 14-month salary arrears to the workers.
The Secretary also clarified that the protest embarked upon by members of the unions on Tuesday was not meant to cause a breach of peace on the school campus or forcefully sack the institution’s management.
Comrade Babatunde further disclosed that the action was carried out in an attempt to commit the college management to compliment the State government’s efforts by ensuring judicious use of the school’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

*#TodayInPlenary*
*SENATE PROCEEDINGS FOR WEDNESDAY 14TH DECEMBER, 2016.*
Senate President Bukola Saraki leads the Senate Leadership into Plenary.
Senator Mohammed Sabo moves for the approval of the Votes and Proceedings of Tuesday 13th December, 2016. Senator Stella Oduah seconds.

*PETITIONS*
Senators Matthew Urhoghide and Ali Wakili present petitions from their respective senatorial districts. Senators Jibrin Barau, Dino Melaye & Benjamin Uwajumogu also lay petitions before the Senate.
All of these Petitions are referred to the #EthicsPPPCttee for further legislative action.

*POINT OF ORDER*
1. Senator Monsurat Sunmonu raises a Point of Order on the continued closure of the Ladoke Akintola University, Ogbomoso owned by both Oyo and Osun State Governments. Senate President Bukola Saraki rules that the Point Of Order by Senator Sunmonu to #ReOpenLautech will be taken at the next legislative day.

2. Senator Jibrin Barau also raises a Point of Order on the recent directive against the importation of vehicles by land borders. The Point of Order on the policy against the prohibition of vehicle importation by land borders is also to be taken at the next legislative day.

*PRESENTATION OF BILLS FOR FIRST READING.*
1. Federal Polytechnic Kabo (Est., Etc) Bill 2016 SB. 406 by Senator Jibrin Barau
2. Child Rights Act 2003 Amendment Bill 2016 SB. 410 by Senator Benjamin Uwajumogu (Imo North)
3. Facial Mutilation (Prohibition) Bill 2016 SB. 407 by Senator Dino Melaye

*PRESENTATION AND CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS*
1. Report of the AdHoc Cttee on Mounting Humanitarian Crisis in the North East is laid by Senator Shehu Sani
Senator @ShehuSani moves for the consideration of the report. He speaks on the pitiable plight of a projected 5.1Million IDPs in the N/East. Senator Sani says NGOs are doing most of the humanitarian work as well as UNICEF, Doctors Without Borders and the Dangote Group. Senator Sani further notes while the Federal Ministry of Health was no where to be found; Nigerian Air Force, NEMA & Borno SEMA were visible.

Senator Shehu Sani points out that the Presidential Initiative on North East (PINE) took an undue advantage of the emergency situation to overinflate contracts. Senator Sani also says the new Initiative on the N/E should coordinate all the efforts to support the IDPs. Senator Sani concludes that the Federal Ministry of Health should immediately move its personnel to the IDP Camps in N/East Nigeria. He adds that contract awards by the Presidential Initiative on North Eest PINE contravened several parts of the public procurement act.

@SenGbengaAshafa comments that only 3 of the 10 AdHoc Cttee Members signed the report. Senator Shehu Sani however points out that 7 members signed.
Senator Dino Melaye now comments on the report of the AdHoc Cttee on mounting humanitarian crisis in the North East. Senator Melaye reads from the report & reiterates that a "company was awarded a consultancy contract worth N223Million on invasive plant species in Yobe State. The company is owned by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation Engr. David Babachir Lawal to which he resigned as a director in September 2016 but still a signatory to the company's account".

Senator Dino Melaye says the action of SGF Babachir Lawal is an embarrassment to the All Progressives Congress and totally an Anti-Buhari tendency. He points out that its gross abuse of office as the SGF simply ran to the Corporate Affairs Commission to change directorship though he still remained a signatory to the company’s account. He says the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, David Babachir Lawal should immediately resign and be prosecuted.

Senator Isah Misau rises to speak on the report. He recommends that SGF David Babachir Lawal should immediately resign and be prosecuted.
Senator Solomon Olamilekan @YAYIAdeola rises to speak on the report. He says "the actions of the Federal Government in recent times are nothing to write home about." Senator Adeola says that Engr. Babachir Lawal should immediately resign his appointment as SGF and be prosecuted accordingly.

Senator Urhoghide speaks on the AdHoc Committee Report. He is particular about the need for the Health Ministry to move its personnel to the IDP Camps.
Senate moves to the recommendations of the Cttee Report. Senate Leader Ali Ndume however points out that this is an interim report as Senate approves that contracts for the IDPs must pass through the Bureau for Public Enterprises for proper valuation. Senate also approves the recommendation that the new Presidential Committee on the North East Initiative PCNI coordinate relief activities for the IDPs in the North East. Senate also approves the recommendation that personnel of the Federal Ministry of Health move to the IDP Camps in the North East.

Senate also approves the recommendation that any Government Official found culpable of sharp practices be suspended and prosecuted. Senate Leader Ali Ndume points out that humanitarian funds worth $417Million has been sent to the North East yet no sign of such funds.

Senate President Bukola Saraki commends the AdHoc Cttee led by Senator Shehu Sani for the courage on the report on N/E humanitarian crisis. Senate President points out that the need for medical personnel from Ministry of Health will be followed up as well as the need for food items. Senator Bukola Saraki adds that the AdHoc Cttee has reported some infractions while noting that Nigeria cannot continue with business as usual. He further charges the PCNI to see to the diligent use of resources and proper coordination.

Senate President Bukola Saraki notes that issues of corruption in the N/E be seen to a rapid conclusion. He agrees with Senator Isah Hamma Misau that the All Progressicves Congress will see things and not cover it up. He also charged the Executive arm to take the resolutions and recommendations serious and implement.

Senator Baba Kaka Garbai raises an additional prayer that David Babachir Lawal should immediately resign as Secretary to the Government of the Federation & be prosecuted accordingly. Senator Ahmed Sani seconds the additional prayer. Senate President puts it to a vote and the Yays have it that SGF Babachir Lawal should immediately resign.

Senator Dino Melaye further raises a Point of Order from the Constitution on the conduct of Public Officials which has been breached by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, David Babachir Lawal. Senate President Bukola Saraki responds "noted".

*CONFIRMATION OF APPOINTMENT*
Senate refers the letter on the appointment of a new Auditor General to the #PublicAcctsCttee. Senate President Bukola Saraki charges the Chairman and Members of the #PublicAcctsCttee to fast track the confirmation process as the outgoing Auditor General is meant to retire soonest.

*MOTIONS*
1. Church Building Collapse in Uyo and the need to curtail the spate of building collapse in Nigeria by Senator Godswill Akpabio. Senator Akpabio notes with shock the collapse of Reigners Bible Church, Uyo on Saturday 10th December, 2016. Senator Akpabio also recalls that on Friday 12th September 2014, a 6-Storey Guest House in the SCOAN premises in Ikotun, Lagos collapsed. Senator Akpabio is deeply worried that although there are provisions for summary trials of violators of building codes, there is no record of persons convicted or sanctioned for incidences of building collapse.

DSP Ike Ekweremadu also comments on the motion. He says several lives were lost in the Uyo Incident. Senate Leader Ali Ndume says it is now time to take action and not just to commiserate with the families who have lost loved ones. Senate observes a minute silence in honour of the those who lost their lives at the Reigners Bible Church Building Collapse in Uyo.

2. Recent Suicide Attacks on Madagali Market in Adamawa State by Senator Binta Masi Garba
Senator Binta Masi Garba notes with deep grief the dastardly twin bomb attacks that took place on Friday 9th Dec., 2016 at Madagali, Adamawa State. Senator Garba says no fewer than 56 Lives were lost and 177 othets injuref in the attacks at the Madagali Market. Senator Garba Binta says last friday's attack was the third in the town and it was masterminded by two teenage bombers.

Senate accordingly resolves to condemn the attack in its entirety and commends NEMA for its quick response to the crisis. Senate calls on the FG to adequately compensate the bereaved families and take care of the wounded. Senate calls on the security agencies to embrace Modern technology in explosives detection and expand their intelligence networks.
Senate observes a minute silence in honour of the lives lost to the Madagali Market Bomb Blasts.

*ADJOURNMENT*
Senate Leader moves for adjournment till later in the day to receive President Muhammadu Buhari for the #Budget2017 presentation. Minority Leader seconds
Senate President puts the question and plenary is adjourned

TUC LAUDS SENATE FOR VOTING TO ABOLISH STATE LOCAL GOVT JOINT ACCOUNT


The Trade Union Congress on of Nigeria on Tuesday thrown its weight behind the move by the Senate to get rid of State Local Government Joint Account and also calls on the House of Representatives and the Presidency to support it. In like manner, the Congress also charges the State Legislatures to follow suit .

 

The joint account idea was a laudable one but its implementation has been faulty. Over the years we have witnessed illegal deduction, delay in the release of funds and in some cases total diversion of local government statutory allocations by the state governors. These undue interferences have become a clog on the wheel of development at the local government level. For effective service delivery it cannot be business as usual.

 

The original idea behind local government creation is profoundly to bring governance closer to the people through effective supervision of the distribution and efficient management of revenue accruing to the local government councils from the federation account. Unfortunately, rather than being a vehicle that should drive rural development, the governors take advantage of it to make some unnecessary deductions thereby, denying the people at the grassroot basic amenities.  

 

The Congress supports the financial autonomy of the local government because of their role towards national economic development. This should not be taken for granted as it contributed about 12% to public expenditure before oil become the mainstream of revenue sources to the federation. The councils are incapacitated to discharge their constitutional mandates and this is traceable to the unjust treatment meted to them by the state governments.

 

We demand that this laudable recommendation be embraced immediately. The state governments have so much money within their reach hence they are so much involved in the politics of do or die. Even with their security votes many governors  still have nothing to show  yet they can not remove their eyes from local government funds. Further encroachment into the exclusive preserves of the Local Governments must stop now.This senate decision deserves commendation.

PRESS STATEMENT

*SENATE DID NOT OKAY DATA PRICE HIKE*
Our attention has been drawn to a publication with the misleading title “ Senate Okays Data Price Hike, says NCC Acted in national Interest” in a national daily insinuating that the Senate through its Committee on Communications sanctioned data price increase by telecommunications service providers during an oversight visit to the Nigerian Communication Commission.

There is no iota of truth in the misleading title as the contrary is the case from what the Vice chairman of the Committee Senator Solomon Adeola said in his presentation during the briefing by NCC Executive Vice Chairman, Professor Umaru Dambatta.

Senator Adeola while commending the NCC for its achievements in recent times stated that the action it took in suspending the proposed data hike following public outcry was in the national and peoples’ interest stressing that their prompt responses to Senate inquiries on the matter and other related issues and a promise to undertake further scientific study on the data hike issue was commendable.

As can be seen from the body of the story no where did the senator ‘okays’ the regulatory agency recommended “price floor” which was the issue that gave rise to the proposed data price hike that has since been suspended.
Signed:

Chief Kayode Odunaro
Media Adviser to Senator Solomon Adeola
13th December, 2016.

*#TodayInPlenary:*SENATE PROCEEDINGDS FOR WEDNESDAY 13TH DECEMBER 2016*
Senator Tijani Kaura moves for the Approval of Votes and Proceedings of Thursday 8th December 2016 and Senator Clifford Ordia seconded.

*POINT OF ORDER*
-Senator Dino Melaye in a Point of Order raised a Motion on the misappropriation of funds by the NNPC and NDPC alleging the non-remittance of $3.48b and $3.442 into the Government coffers.

He says it is abnormal that despite the fact that we are in a change era some individuals have not remitted over $400m.

"Nigeria is at the verge of borrowing, these funds should be refunded to the consolidated revenue account to tackle recession"-Sen. J. Barau

"Nigeria is faced with a lot of crisis, 70% Revenue generated from the oil sector is being withheld by an Agency of Govt" - Sen. Binta Garba

"We must put an end to these acts of sabotaging the efforts of the Anti-Corruption Agency. The question is; where was the Minister of Petroleum, CBN Governor and GMD of NNPC when all these acts were carried out"? The Committee in charge must see this as a challenge and they must give report on their findings by 9th January, 2017" - Senate President Bukola Saraki

-Sen. Binta Masi raised a motion on the bomb explosion that led to the loss of over 200 lives in her constituency. It was referred to another legislative day.
- Minority Leader, Senator Akpabio also raised a motion on the collapse of church building in Akwa Ibom.

*PRESENTATION OF BILLS*
Three bills were presented for first reading they are:

1. Federal Polytechnic Silame Sokoto (Establishment, etc) Bill, 2016 (SB. 406). By Senator Aliyu Wamakko.
2. Investment and Securities Act 2007 (Amendment) Bill, 2016 (SB. 394). By Senator Hassan Mohammed.
3. Chartered Institute of Administration Act CAP C7 LFN 2004 (Amendment). Bill, 2016 (SB. 369) By Senator Adesoji Akanbi

*PRESENTATION OF REPORTS*
Two reports were laid they are:
1. Conference Committee Report on the National Assembly Budget and Research Office (Est, etc) Bill, 2016 (SB.222). By Sen. Emmanuel Paulker.

2. Report of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters on Excessive Tuition Fee charged by the Nigerian Law School by Senator David Umaru.

*CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS*
Eight Reports were considered and adopted they are:
1. Conference Committee Report North East Development Commission (Est. etc) Bill, 2016 (SB. 163). By Sen Ali Ndume.

"It is true that Kano and Plateau state suffered considerable damage than some other states, i urge my colleagues to throw away the consideration, i feel it is an injustice and bias to other States, it should be done in a way that will benefit all Nigerians" - Senator Kabir Marafa
"I don't see any reason why we should throw away the report, fixing a part of Nigeria will bring development to Nigeria as a whole"- Sen. K. Gaya
"The issue of insurgency affects others states, we should look into this & where amendment is needed incorporate other states" - Ali Ndume
"We need to get the cooperation of the members of the other Chamber, let us pass this bill and come back to see if we can get an amendment to include other States as commitment on our part to achieve the result".‎- Senate President Bukola Saraki.

2. Confirmation of the Nomination: Report of the Committee on NIMC and NPC on the screening of the nominations of the following persons for Appointment as Commissioners for National Population Commission. The Commissioners are: 1. Engr. Benedict Ukpong - Akwa-Ibom 2. Gloria Fateya Izonfuo- Bayelsa 3. Barr. Kupchi Patricia Ori Iyanya- Benue 4. Haliru Bala - Kebbi State 5. Eyitayo Oyetunji - Oyo State.
3. Conference Committee Report: Defence Space Agency (Establishment, etc) Bill, 2016. (SB. 166). By ‎Sen. Boroffice‎
4. Report of the Committee on Finance. 2016 Budget of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). By Senator John. Enoh

"If one looks at the figure presented by FIRS in the Budget, one will begin to question what happens over there‎ looking at last year revenue, cost of collection is too high in relations to International best practices" - Senator Sabi Abdullahi
"The cost of collection is an incentive for the private sector to work harder, we should find out what the figures are for"- Sen. Alasoadura

5. Report of the Committee on Customs and Excise. 2016 Budget of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS). By Sen. Hope Uzodinma.
6. Conference Committee Report.Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurum (Est. etc) Bill, 2016 (SB. 220). By Sen. Binta Masi Garba.
7. Report of the Committee on Marine Transport. 2016 Budget of the following Agencies: - By Sen. Ahmed Sani a. Nigerian Shippers Council. b. National Maritime Authority; and c. Nigerian Ports Authority.
Senate President says item 47 of the National Maritime Committee report needs a lot of oversight so that it won't be another avenue for wastage‎, says Fiscal responsibility bill is important in the passage of the budget and urged closer look at the 2017 budget.

8. Report of the Committee on Capital Market. 2016 Budget of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). By Sen. Isiaka Adeleke

*ADJOURNMENT*
Senate Leader moves for other items on the Order Paper to be stood down to another legislative day, the Minority Leader seconds.
Senate President Puts the question and‎ plenary is adjourned

A SPEECH DELIVERED BY SENATOR RAFIU ADEBAYO IBRAHIM PhD, FCIB ON THE OCCASION OF HIS ANNUAL EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMME AND LAUNCHING OF HIS #RIB FOUNDATION TO MARK HIS 50TH BIRTHDAY ANNIVERSARY ON THE 11TH DECEMBER, 2016 AT THE ODU HALL, OFFA



Protocol:



My journey of fifty years has been eventful. I give honour and adoration to God Almighty who has given me the opportunity to go this far in life.


What could I have done without the benevolence of the almighty that has favoured me amongst my peers. Indeed, it is a blessing and I appreciate God's wonders in my life.


The journey would not have been this smooth without the support and prayers of my family members. I sincerely appreciate the home support that has kept me going this far. To every member of my family, I pray we have the cause to celebrate many more of this together as a family.


It is quite unfortunate that my parents are not here with us today but the legacy you left behind still linger. Continue to rest in peace and may almighty Allah grant you Aljanat Fridaus..Amin.


My appreciation goes to the entire Saraki family for the uncommon favour and benevolence that have been bestowed upon me in my entire political career. My mind goes directly to Baba Oloye, the Waziri Ngeri of Ilorin Emirate, Dr. Abubakar Olusola Saraki, may God almighty increase His blessings on him and grant him Aljanat Fridaus as his last abode, Amin. 


 My appreciation is not complete without acknowledging the mentorship and support of our Leader, the Nigerian Political Tiger, the political juggernaut, the Nigerian Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki [CON]. His leadership prowess has been a source of inspiration to me. 


All my teachers, friends and everyone who has played one role or the other in my life, I say thank you. May God reward you all abundantly.


As the past is the key to the present, so does the present remain the key to the future. My 50th year is a mark of fulfilment but the years ahead promise to be better as I remain more committed to touching lives and giving inspiration to the entire humanity most especially the people around me.


My story could best be described as fortunate. I started my life from a humble background, in an area where farming was predominant. I started my schooling in my immediate and remote environment, though with a dream but never knew what destiny had in plan for me as a young lad.


Growing up was difficult but I remained focused and determined to achieve greatness. My journey into politics began in 2009 when Baba Saraki, the great Oloye, endorsed me for the Kwara State House of Assembly to represent Oke-Ogun Constituency. That day, Baba Saraki told all the stakeholders from Oyun LGA that I was one of the most trustworthy persons he had met in his life time. I was moved to tears and vowed never to disappoint my destiny which had brought me this unimaginable favour from such a man of unquantifiable and unequalled greatness.


Behold, with his endorsement, I was elected a Member of Kwara State House of Assembly for Oke-Ogun Constituency of Oyun Local Government Area in a re-run election in 2009 after the demise of Raufu Lambe. (RIP)


As destiny would have it, my election in to the state Assembly was just a precursor that shot me into the National politics. In 2011, I was elected into the National Assembly, as a Federal Honourable of the House of Representatives to represent Ifelodun/Offa/Oyun Federal Constituency.



Four years later, despite the hullabaloo in the polity of our country, our Leader, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki gave me the nod to consider the seat for the Kwara South Senatorial District.


To the glory of God and the support of the Saraki political family in Kwara, we became victorious. Today, I represent the entire people of Kwara South at the Nigerian Senate in the 8th National Assembly under the Chairmanship of our Leader, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki.



Many thanks to the Saraki Political Dynasty, that discovered the prowess in me, a young man from Ojoku, a serene and quiet town in Oyun Local Government Area of Kwara State.



As a seasoned banker, I do not consider politics a business venture but an opportunity to invest in humanity. Hence, I want to dedicate the rest of my life to God Almighty and service to humanity.



At this juncture, I call on everyone present here today to please join me as I call on almighty Allah to increase His protection, divine guidance on Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki. May God strengthen and fortify him against all adversaries. It is my prayer to God almighty to actualise all his heart's desires. I pray to Almighty God to let me be part of the journey to the end. He remains our watchword in Kwara and we are always happy to follow in his footsteps. 



What we are witnessing here today is what we have been doing for many years but has another dimension with the birth of RIB FOUNDATION as it will be discussed fully during the official launch. RIB FOUNDATION is targeted at giving back to my community either while in office or out of office. We are also in partnership with the recently launched Saraki Employment and Empowerment Centre for Skill-acquisition, Training Empowerment Programme (SEEC-STEP) of our Leader, Distinguished Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, to provide jobs for 40 thousand Kwarans. In my own capacity, Kwara South-STEP, as part of our programme under RIB FOUNDATION, targets eight thousand Kwara Southerners in four years to reduce poverty and unemployment in line with the current economic reality in the country now. This and many other programmes under RIB FOUNDATION and our regular empowerment, bursary, scholarship awards, business financial supports, health bills, provision of school fees and books for our students etc are what I pray to continue to do for the rest of my life. I pray this should not be the end of it, Amin.


I thank you all for coming and may almighty Allah continue to guide and guard us all, Amin.

*#PIBHearing: Summary of  Day 3 ‎Senate Public Hearing on the Petroleum Industry and Governance Bill (PIGB) 9th December 2016.*
‎
Chairman ‎Committee Petroleum Upstream‎ Sen. Tayo Alasoadura welcomed stakeholders and members of the general public present. ‎

‎Other Senators present are: @‎SenMarafaKabir, Sen. Akpan Bassey, Sen. Clifford Ordia, Sen. Matthew Urhoghide and Sen. Yusuf Abubakar
‎
Senator Bassey Albert Akpan invites the Minister of State for Petroleum ‎Ibe Kachikwu to make his presentation. ‎
‎
"I am glad this is one of the early things you put your energy into to get this bill passed‎, Some of the problems we met on ground include: Oil spills, Gas flaring, Niger Delta Agitation, Cost Management, Funding NNPC ‎Fuel prices, Importation of Petroleum, Refinery Performance, etc. ‎
‎
"We align with the @NGRSenate on single regulator instead of giving discretionary powers to individuals‎ the administrative laws are needed and also a well resourced and technical back office for efficiency. 

‎"Gas delivery to internal market is nothing to write about, our 50 years of Oil exploration has not done much for the nation,‎ in Saudi Arabia Oil molecules are produced, and it's supply and destination can be tracked. ‎ " - ‎Ibe Kachikw‎u‎
‎
‎He concluded by‎ saying the ‎PIGB is a welcomed development and thanked the Senate ‎Committee Petroleum Upstream for the opportunity to make his contributions.
 ‎
Senator Akpan Bassey says that comments from the general public is welcomed as the last Day of the #PIBhearing is dedicated to the public.
‎
‎"PIB must contain host Community Components. ‎Governance Bill also require a regulatory framework" asks the minister‎ if he captured this in his address. ‎- Senator Emmanuel Paulker

‎Senator Akpan Bassey clarifies that the ‎PIGB is a National Assembly Bill and ‎Ibe Kachikwu is only making contributions. ‎
 
Sen. Matthew Urhoghide spoke on Policy Somersault and expresses fears on change of policy by successive Government. ‎Executive must make effort to ensure consistency else these efforts will be an exercise in futility" ‎
‎
 Senator Kabir Marafa says it is clear before Nigerians that there's no protest and this mea‎ns everyone is given the right to speak ‎an email address of the Secretariat will be released to the general public for further inputs. 
‎
‎Sen. Alasoadura thanked everyone who has been a part of the 3-Day Senate hearing on ‎PIGB. ‎
‎
He thanked the Director of DPR, GMD NNPC, OBTC Oil, Association for Good Governance, African Centre for Good Leadership‎ Social Development Integrated Centre, Bureau of Enterprise, Host Communities & Oil Companies, Press, Civil Society Groups and the general for their support and contributions towards making the ‎#PIBhearing‎ a success.
‎
‎"The ‎PIGB when passed becomes a property of all of us, so we must not shy away from our responsibilities" - Sen. Tayo  Alasoadura 

‎This brought  to an end the 3-Day hearing on the Petroleum Industry Governance Bill that started on Wednesday 7th December, 2016.‎