#TodayInPlenary

* SUMMARY SENATE PROCEEDINGS FOR WEDNESDAY 9TH NOVEMBER, 2016*

Senate President @Bukolasaraki leads the Senate leadership into plenary and takes the official prayers as Senate is set for proceedings.
Senator Benjamin Chukwuemeka Uwajumogwu moves for the approval of the votes and proceedings of Tuesday 8th November 2016 and Senator Clifford Ordia seconds.

*ANNOUNCEMENT*
Senate President Abubakr Bukola Saraki announces that committees with pending budget reports for some government agencies should endeavor to present it in due time.

*PRESENTATION OF BILLS - FIRST READING*
1. Consumer Protection Council Act (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2016 (SB.208) by Senator Gilbert Nnaji.
2. Mortgage Institutions and Allied Matters Act (Amendment) Bill, 2016 (SB .214) by Senator Rafiu Ibrahim.
3. Tax Incentives Management and Transparency Bill, 2016 (SB.331) by Senator Aliyu Abdullahi.
4. Constituency Development Fund Bill 2016 (SB. 336) by Senator Ali Ndume.
5. Local Government (Repeal) Bill 2016 (SB. 365) by Senator Peter Nwaoboshi.
6. TETFUND Act (Amendment) Bill 2016 (SB. 375) by Senator Jibrin Barau.

*PRESENTATION OF REPORT*
The Report of the Committee on Foreign Affairs on the screening of the 47 Career Ambassadorial Nominees by Senator Monsurat Sunmonu is laid.

*CONSIDERATION OF BILLS – SECOND READING*
1. A Bill for an Act to repeal the Nigerian Customs Service Management Act (Repeal and Re- enactment) 2016 (SB. 246) by Senator Sam Anyanwu (Imo East)
Senator Anyanwu rises to present the debate on the #CustomsBill Repeal and Re-enactment. He says the #CustomsBill repeal and re-enactment bill will help transform the economy especially in the face of current economic challenges. "This bill has no financial implications, it will rather improve our revenue and save the face of our economy" - Sen. Sam Anyanwu says in urging his colleagues to support the Bill.
Senate Leader Ali Ndume supports the #CustomsBill and notes certain observations from the lead debate. Senator Yusuf Abubakar Yusuf adds that the #CustomsBill will add value to the work of the Nigeria Customs Service. The #CustomsBill repeal and re-enactment is read and passes second reading.
Senate President Bukola Saraki comments that "this is one of the very important economic priority bills to move the country forward & address economic challenges". "I believe the #CustomsBill will bring best practices in custom activities". - Senate President Bukola Saraki
The Bill is referred to Senate #CustomsCommittee for further action to report back within three weeks.
2. A Bill for an Act to provide for Establishment, Development, Operation, Maintenance, Management, and Administration of the Nigerian Agricultural Processing Zones and for matters connected therewith, 2016 (SB. 21) by Senator Francis Alimikhena (Edo North).
Senator Alimikhena rises for the lead debate of the #AgriculturalProcessingZoneBill. He emphasizes on the importance of processing agricultural products and how much it has cost Nigerians in the past and present.
Senator Adamu Aliero in supporting the bill corrects the impression that locally produced rice are with stones and chaffs. "The locally produced rice is far better than the ones imported from Europe, India and other parts of the world. Agriculture is the only sector that can provide employment; I am glad this administration is paying attention to Agriculture" adds Senator Aliero. Senator Barnabas Gemade says "I think this bill is very timely and will address a very important issue. I come from Benue State the food basket; a lot is wasted regularly due to problems of processing”.
The Bill for an Act to provide for Establishment, Development, Operation, Maintenance, Management, and Administration of the Nigerian Agricultural Processing Zones and for matters connected therewith, 2016 (SB. 21) is read and passed for second reading. Senate President Bukola Saraki says the importance of the bill to the economy cannot be overemphasized and refers it to Committee on Agriculture.

3. A Bill for an Act to provide for the Establishment of the Erosion Control and Prevention Commission and vest the responsibility for the Prevention, Control, Management and Redress of Erosion and for related matters, 2016 (SB. 32) by Senator Hope Uzodinma (Imo West).
Senator Uzodinma rises to lead the debate on Erosion Control and Prevention Commission Bill. He says that the bill will help address the challenges of erosion and its negative effect to the environment. Senator Shehu Sani says the problem of erosion is on the rise but unfortunately the environmental agencies are not doing enough. "My Colleagues, this bill is worth supporting. We must ensure that this bill comes to light" says Senator Sani.
Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu opines that "erosion is not peculiar with a specific region is everywhere; our environment is at stake we have to be futuristic". Senator Monsurat Sunmonu also supports the bill saying erosion is a huge problem in Oyo State given instances of cases in the past.
The Bill for an Act to provide for Establishment of Erosion Control & Prevention Commission 2016 (SB. 32) is read and passed for second reading. Senate President Bukola Saraki says that the #ErosionBill was considered in the 7th Senate and hopes that the bill will go through this time. He refers the #ErosionBill to the Committee on Environment.

4. A Bill for an Act to provide for the Establishment of the Small Claims Courts, its Composition, Jurisdiction, Procedures and for other Matters connected therewith 2016 (SB.44) by Senator Joshua Lidani (Gombe South).
Senator Joshua Lidani leads the debate stating the relevance of Small Claims Courts. The Bill for an Act to provide for the Establishment of the Small Claims Courts, its Composition, Jurisdiction, Procedures and for other Matters connected therewith, 2016. (SB. 44) is read and passed for second reading.

*ADJOURNMENT*
Senate Leader moves that plenary be adjourned to the next legislative day. The Minority Leader accordingly seconds. Senate President Bukola Saraki puts the question for adjournment and plenary is adjourned to Thursday 10th November 2016.

#GavelBangs

@Bukolasaraki Congratulates President-Elect
Donald.J. Trump
November 9, 2016, Abuja, Nigeria---On this day, I
wish to extend my sincerest congratulatory
remarks to U.S. President-Elect Donald J. Trump,
on his remarkable victory in yesterday’s national
election in the United States.
Mr. Trump persevered through a very challenging
Republican primary election cycle, where he
defeated sixteen (16) professional and well-
organized candidates. While many career
politicians tried to write off Mr. Trump’s
candidacy as a long shot, he stuck to his
positions and controlled the daily media
messaging like no other candidate in the history
of American Presidential campaigns.
Additionally, I must commend Mr. Trump for his
gracious and courteous acceptance of Secretary
Hillary Clinton’s phone call to concede the
election. He recognizes that Secretary Clinton
ran a courageous contest and was perhaps the
most qualified candidate for President in
decades. Having worked with Mrs. Clinton as a
champion of the Global Alliance for Clean Cook
Stoves, I can personally attest to her hard work
and dedication to the less fortunate in our
society. Secretary Clinton would have been a
tremendous leader and we will all miss her
dedication and commitment to public service.
I look forward to working with President-Elect
Trump to continue the strong U.S.-Nigeria
relationship and to address our mutual interest in
defeating global terror networks, rooting out
corruption and strengthening the institutions of
governance.
Mr. Trump’s years of being a private sector
leader can be invaluable to Nigeria as we work to
restructure and diversify our economy. It is
important for the private sector here to have a
larger role in expanding our economic base,
creating jobs and fostering entrepreneurship. In
these areas, I am sure he will be able to serve
as a strong partner.
In closing, it is my hope and prayer that the
United States can move beyond this election and
heal the divisions that divide that great nation.
Mr. Trump has an opportunity to be a unifying
force and I believe his humble acceptance
speech was a great beginning.
Senate President (Dr.) Abubakar Bukola Saraki,
CON

*SENATE PROCEEDINGS OF TUESDAY 8TH NOVEMBER 2016*

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu presided over plenary.

Senator Abu Ibrahim moves for the approval of the Votes and Proceedings of Thursday 3rd November 2016 and Senator Hassan Mohammed seconded.

 
*POINTS OF ORDER*

1. Senator Dino Melaye raises a Point of Order on alleged corruption on the construction of the permanent site of the Code of Conduct Bureau.


He speaks on the alleged plans of the CCB to buy a building not worth the funding released to them.


Senate refers the matter to the ‪#EthicsPPPCttee, ‪#FCTCttee and ‪#ProcurementCttee for further legislative action.

 
2. Senator Isaac Alfa also raises a Point of Order on the demise of Lt. Colonel Abu Ali and other fallen heroes.

Senator Alfa speaks on the commitment and bravery of the Late Lt. Colonel Abu Ali who is from his Constituent. Deputy Senate President Ekweremadu conveys the "deep condolences" of the Nigerian Senate to the families of Lt. Colonel Abu Ali and other fallen heroes.

Ike Ekweremadu says what Nigeria can do to honour the heroes is to totally defeat the insurgents.

The Nigerian Senate now observes a one-Minute Silence in honour of Lt. Colonel Abu Ali and other fallen heroes.


*PRESENTATION OF BILLS*

1. 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria  (Alteration) Billl 2016 SB. 354 by Senator Solomon Yayi Adeola (Lagos West)

2. Compulsory, Free Universal Basic Education Act 2004 (Amendment) Bill 2016 SB. 374 by Senator Aliyu Wamakko (Sokoto North)

3. Companies and Allied Matters Act CAP C20 LFN 2004 (Amendment) Bill 2016 SB. 355 by Senator Fatimat Rasaki (Ekiti Central)


4. Residency Rights of every Citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Bill 2016 SB. 356 by Senator Dino Melaye (Kogi West)

5. Credit Bureau Reporting Bill SB. 361 by Senator Umaru Kurfi (Katsina Central)

6. Secured Transactions on Movable Assets Bill, 2016 SB. 261 by Senator Rafiu Ibrahim (Kwara South)


*MOTIONS*

1. The Motion on the Urgent need to decongest the Nigerian Prisons by Senator Samuel Anyanwu (Imo East).

Senator Sam Anyanwu speaks on the problem of congestion in the Prisons and how it has continued to affect nation's criminal justice system.

Senator Anyanwu adds that Nigerian Prisons have become an environmental hazard both to Prisoners and the Community at large.

Senator Anyanwu makes an example of the Port Harcourt Prison, built in 1928 for 804 Inmates but now has 3824 Inmates; a 500% increase.

Senator Adamu Aliero seconds the motion on the urgent need to decongest Nigerian Prisons. He says the Prison facilities are overstretched.

Senator Shehu Sani contributes to the debate. He says there is the need for a Judicial Reform as the Prisons Administration Methods are part of the negative things inherited from Colonial Masters. He adds that the Kaduna Prisons has a population three times its normal capacity.


Senate Leader Ali Ndume charges Senators and the committee on interior to visit the Kuje and Suleja Prisons as a case study to facilitate the release of awaiting trial inmates and those who are guilty of light offences.


Senate resolves to urge the CJN and Prisons CG to immediately conduct an exercise to identify awaiting trial inmates dumped in the Prisons without due and diligent prosecution for the purpose of granting them their freedom.

Senate also urges the CJN, AGF and State AGs to exercise their constitutional rights of setting free inmates.

Senate also resolves that the FG immediately take steps to renovate Prisons across Nigeria.

Senate as well mandates its ‪#InteriorCttee to visit Kuje and Suleja Prisons as case studies and ensure release of eligible inmates.


Senate also urges the Federal Government to relocate Prisons out of City centres.

 
2. Motion on the Intolerable Upswing of Unemployment in Nigeria by Senator Duro Faseyi. (Ekiti North)

 
Senator Faseyi notes with serious concern the scandalous and incredible level of unemployment in the country according to the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics.

 
Senator Faseyi raises the alarm that the number of unemployed and underemployed people rose from 24.4Million to 26.06Million in 2016 2nd Quarter.


Senator Faseyi says the worrisome and mind-boggling figures has created social tension and crisis as unemployed graduates are now involved in crimes.

Senator Faseyi cautions that if urgent and results-oriented steps are not taken, there would be resultant colossal increase in strife & insecurity.

Senator Sabi Abdullahi seconds the motion. He laments the poor financial backing to budgetary allocations of agencies such as NDE and SMEDAN.

Senator Sabi Abdullahi said that it’s these agencies that help train graduates and facilitate employment opportunities.


Senator Emmanuel Bwacha says the processes adopted for employment generation by the Government are not the very best.


Senators Joshua Lidani and Enyinnaya Abaribe also lend their voices on the increasing rates of unemployment in Nigeria.

 
Deputy Leader Na'Allah speaks on the poor productivity of the employed ones while many unemployed graduates look for such opportunities.

Senator Rose Oko contributed on the motion. She speaks on the need to encourage agricultural and manufacturing industries.

 
Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu says its time to declare a State of Emergency on Unemployment; improve infrastructural development. Senate resolves to invite the Minister for Labour and Productivity to provide insight into Government's roadmap towards tackling unemployment statistics and look at giving unemployment benefits to unemployed Nigerians.

 
Senate also urges Government to declare a State of Emergency on Unemployment towards confronting the challenge frontally and radically.

 
Senate also directs MDAs especially Security Parastatals to enlist more youths towards enhancing security and to ease unemployment.


Senate also urges the FG to explore the Graduate Scheme of the IITA to ensure involvement and employment of youths.

 
3. The need to unburden recruitment requirements and modes to remove undeserved hardship for job seekers in Nigeria. By Senator Matthew Urhogide

 He clamoured for the removal of the age bracket specification for recruitments and employment.


Senator Urhoghide says that it is not the fault of applicants that they were not employed earlier and should not suffer for it.

 
Senator Urhoghide speaks on the harm that age and cognate requirements have on eligible job applicants even as Federal Character isn’t followed.
 
Senators Clifford Ordia and Stella Oduah also contributed on the motion. They support the removal of age and experience barriers for employment.


Senator Biodun Olujimi also speaks. She laments the unfair practices by Government MDAs and Private Firms to push out eligible applicants.


Senator Shehu Sani says different sets of rules are used for the rich and influential on one side and the poor on the other side.

 
He adds that sometimes we use Federal Character; sometimes Catchment with different requirements and modes.

 
DSP Ike Ekweremadu comments that there is the need for transparency and fairness to fill the few employment opportunities available.


Senate now resolves to mandate MDAs to de-emphasize age bracket requirements for recruitment of first time applicants.


Senate also resolves to mandate MDAs and the Private Sector to de-emphasize cognate experience as prerequisite for first time applicants.


Senate also urges MDAs to adhere strictly to the Federal Character Principle as it relates to recruitment exercises.

Senate moves to the motion on the need to determine the status of unclaimed N90Billion Dividends in Securities for Nigerian Investors.

 
4. Need to determine the Status of Unclaimed N90 Billion Dividends in Securities for Nigerian Investors. By senator Muhammad

Senator Shittu notes that Premium Times Newspapers of 8th June 2016 reported unclaimed dividends of N90Billion belonging to investors.

 
Senate urges the Nigerian Security exchange, Central Bank of Nigeria and other stakeholders to create more awareness on the issue of dividends and e-dividend platforms.


5. Urgent need to investigate the granting of concession of Western (Lagos-Kano) and Eastern (Port Harcourt - Maiduguri) Rail Lines to General Electric, a US Company by Senator Basset Akpan.

Senator Bassey Akpan notes that BPE & NIAF upon approval of the NCP in April 2015 developed the road map for the concessioning of rail lines

Senator Akpan informs that the BPE has already engaged the Global Infrastructure Facility and World Bank in discussions on accessing funds while the Ministry of Transport has formally appointed the Africa Financing Corporation and Greenwich as Financial Advisers for same purposes.

Senator Akpan observes that the Honorable Minister of Transport, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi in an interview with ‪@CNBC monitored by ‪@vanguardngrnews of 30th June, 2016 stated that General Electric is already engaged with a potential investment of over $2Billion by the company in the railway sector.

Senator Akpan is convinced that the Minister of Transport has violated provisions of the Public Enterprises Privatization and Commercialization Act 1999 by unilaterally engaging General Electric for the concessioning of the Western and Eastern Rail Lines.

Senate accordingly resolves to mandate the Committee on Privatization and committee on Land Transportation,#AntiCorruption and FinancialCrimesCttee.

‪#SpecialDutiesCttee‪, #Trade&InvestmentCttee and #JudiciaryCttee to investigate the procedure adopted in the engagement of GE for rail lines.

*ADJOURNMENT*

Senate Leader moves for other items on the Order Paper be stood down for another legislative day and Minority Leader seconds.

#BILLTRACKER

The Bill to establish the National Development Bank of Nigeria SB.8 2016 sponsored by Senator Ibrahim Gobir (Sokoto East Senatorial District)


TRACK RECORD

First Reading: 12th August, 2015.

Second Reading: 12th October, 2016.


STATUS

The #DevtBankBill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions for further legislative action.


The #DevtBankBill is to repeal the Bank of Industry Act, the Bank of Commerce and Industry Act and the National Economic Reconstruction Fund Act bringing their assets under one new body, the National Development Bank.

The #DevtBankBill seeks to create a development finance institution to accelerate sustainable socio - economic development.

The #DevtBankBill is to also satisfy medium & long - term funding needs for both SMEs and Large Scale Enterprises in Nigeria.

The #DevtBankBill will allow loans with duration of up to 10Years and a moratorium of up to 18Months unlike the deposit banks.

The #DevtBankBill SB. 8 will empower the National Development Bank to provide capital loans to eligible enterprises.

The #DevtBankBill will allow the provision of cheap funds to Manufacturing, Agro - Allied & Non - Peasant Agricultural Industries.

The National Development Bank to be created by the #DevtBankBill will provide funds to locally owned, economically-viable enterprises.

The enactment of the #DevtBankBill SB. 8 will be a perfect answer to the current economic down turn.

The #DevtBankBill will mirror international best practices of Development Banks to provide long term finance/equity.

The #DevtBankBill will also ensure the development of small businesses and the encouragement of entrepreneurial activity.

The #DevtBankBill also has a broader aim of re - distributing income btw social classes, economic diversification & ultimately, job creation.

The #DevtBankBill SB. 8 is part of the #SenatePlan's recommendation towards economic recovery from the current recession.

Selling my cars won’t end Nigeria’s recession, I’ve ordered for more – Melaye

 Fatai Ibrahim

26 mins ago



Senator Dino Melaye

The Chairman, Senate Committee on the Federal Capital Territory, Senator Dino Melaye, speaks with FRIDAY OLOKOR on Senate President Bukola Saraki, the anti-corruption crusade of President Muhammadu Buhari and other national issues

What motivated you to go into politics?

My drive in politics is to make life more bearable for Nigerians. My interest in politics is for developmental reasons. I am in politics to right the wrongs of the society. I am in politics to offer palliatives to Nigerians. I am in politics to make sure that the youths of this country get their fair share in power sharing and resources of this country. My drive has always been revolutionary books which affected my life. Early in life I read books on Mahatma Gandhi, Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. and that has helped in revolutionising my life and resulted in a positive effect on me politically. So my driving force is my orientation, my indoctrination from most autobiographies that I have read and more important God.

Most Nigerians, especially your peers, have expressed reservations about your sudden rise politically. How did you do it?

I give all honour, glory and adoration to the Almighty God who has supreme control over the universe. I want to believe that God is the ultimate reason for where I am today. I have tremendous belief in myself and I believe that every man must dream a dream; every man must have in mind the picture of what he intends to be; and I want to believe that with resilience, commitment, perseverance and prayers, one will always attain his goal in life. It is not all about me; it is about God. Failure to plan is planning to fail. For me, the battle to attain my goal is a battle of no retreat, no surrender and I will continue to pursue it. I also want to announce that I am still climbing the ladder. I still have some steps up to climb.

What is the future of youths in attaining the political leadership of this country?

Power is never served as a buffet.  To attain power, you must struggle for it. The youths of this country will not get power on a platter of gold. So they must come out of their cocoons and begin to make sacrifices in search for power. The youths of this country must be resolute. They should be interested in how they are being governed and they must be interested in policy formulation and implementation. They must be interested in their political and economic environment. That is the only way they can capture power because power is not given; power is taken. The youths of this country must show capacity and interest in every facet of our national life and they must also make sure that they react to the environment. Power ultimately belongs to God. But when man wants it, man must labour for it because he that refuses to labour should not eat. The youths of this country are about 65 per cent of our population and have about 70 per cent of the voting rights in this country. The youths have the strength, the energy, the dynamism, the intellectual prowess and more important the population to capture power.

Several allegations have been made that you are close to the Senate President, against the interest of your political party, because he ‘settled’ you. What is your reaction to this?

Bukola Saraki is my friend. He is my brother and I value friendship. My definition of friendship is he or she who walks in while others are walking out. I am not a monetised character. I don’t commercialise my conscience. I do what is only right in man’s sight and in the sight of Almighty God. No one has the money to buy me. My relationship with Bukola Saraki is true friendship and I will stand by him come rain or shine. I will always be by his side as a friend and I will always advise him rightly. I did not pitch any tent against my party because as a senator, I swore an oath before God and before man using the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) and also using the Holy Book. I swore to uphold the constitution and there is no All Progressives Congress senator, there is no Peoples Democratic Party senator. All we have is senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. So, the party to me is just a vehicle for winning elections because no political party in this country is ideologically based; no political party in this country has a manifesto that is being implemented. The governor of Kaduna State is from the APC; the governor of Kano State is from the APC, but the programmes of the Kaduna State governor is apparently at variance with that of his Kano State counterpart. So people should not use the instrumentality of political parties to determine loyalty to the nation. My loyalty is first to Nigeria before my political party and the independence of the Senate is important to me. I believe that the internal issues of the Senate should be handled internally and I give my support to Bukola Saraki. I have no regrets about it.

So was your loyalty why Saraki compensated you with the position of chairman, senate committee on the Federal Capital Territory?

In every facet of life, people work for loyalty and today as a Muslim or as a Christian, we all strive to make heaven because there is a hope and a promise of eternity. So if a man gets rewarded for diligence and loyalty, it is not a crime. And if I got rewarded with the position of chairman, senate committee on FCT because I was loyal to Bukola Saraki, then the losers should lick their wounds.

Many believe that you are young and therefore they query the source of your stupendous wealth. How did you get your money?

I don’t know about stupendous wealth. I don’t know about being wealthy, but I will say I am a comfortable Nigerian and I have never got any contract from the government contract in my life. I have also never taken any political appointment in my life or a position where I have control over government funds. I have never had government imprest and I challenge anyone who has any criminal allegation against me to actually come out and present it. With the vigour with which I fought the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan, if I had any skeleton in my cupboard, by now it would have been exposed. For a man who buys very expensive cars with his name labelled on the number plate, it is enough to tell you that he is clean. I am a very transparent Nigerian, a very open and honest Nigerian. I have never stolen from government and I can say it without fear. I challenge anyone to prove me otherwise. But at the same time, God is the ultimate giver of legitimate wealth and anyone who really wants to tap into the anointing of getting resources from God should please consult me.

Before you became a senator, were you already a millionaire?

I have not acquired anything dramatically new since I became a senator. The houses I have in this city (Abuja), I acquired before being sworn in as a senator. Hard work pays and the Holy Book says God shall supply my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To me, that is very fundamental. My source of wealth is heavenly, my purse is divine and it won’t dry up.

You were the brains behind the ‘Like-Mind’ senators; a platform through which Saraki became the Senate Presidnt. Now, he is facing the Code of Conduct Tribunal over discrepancies in the declaration of his assets. Why didn’t you advise him to resign honourably?

I am not Bukola Saraki. I don’t speak for Bukola Saraki. And I cannot speak for Bukola Saraki. But all I want to say is that if Bukola Saraki thinks he is guilty, he should resign. But if he thinks he is not guilty, there is no reason he should resign. I say it without fear or favour that what Bukola Saraki is passing through is not prosecution. It is persecution. You don’t punish a man for being ambitious. The reason Saraki was before the Code of Conduct (Tribunal) in the first instance was because he was being ambitious. President Muhammadu Buhari is also an ambitious character; having contested (the presidential) election three times and he got it  (won the poll) the fourth time. That shows how ambitious he is and then getting to the Presidency now, he should not be queried for being ambitious. I am also ambitious; I want to be the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It is God that gives power to whosoever he wishes. So for me, the CCT trial is a kangaroo one and at the end of the day, nothing will come out of it. Just as the case of forgery was withdrawn, this in due course won’t see the light of the day.

You founded the Anti-Corruption Network. How will you assess Buhari’s administration in his fight against graft?

The President is sincere about his corruption war. But is the approach right? He cannot say so. I want to say the approach of Mr. President in fighting corruption will yield no dividends because in the ongoing trials, no single Nigerian has been successfuly prosecuted and jailed. Because of the magnitude of resources available to the looters of our national treasury, they will have a way of manipulating Nigerian courts. Most of the cases are still at the court of first instance and one year after, witnesses have not been examined and cross-examined in the courts. Then you will use two years in the court of instance, you will use another two years in the Court of Appeal and you have the Supreme Court. By that time, the President might have been out of power, money not retrieved from the looters, time and resources wasted because the Federal Government is also engaging lawyers and congesting the courts. I believe in transparency, accountability and respect for the rule of law. But in this particular incident, I am advocating for an economic amnesty in the sense that government will invite all looters and ask them to return the loot within a stipulated period of time, for example six months. If in six months the loot is not returned, then we should have a court that will expeditiously sentence them within the shortest time possible. By so doing, it will be a win-win situation for all because ultimately, at the end of the day, we want these monies to be recovered so that they can be used for the development of this country. We must look at the procurement process in the country that gave birth to the weak structures that exposes Nigerians to corruption and stealing. We must look at the procurement laws and the loopholes that create room for stealing and wastage — that must be looked at critically. Secondly, we must block wastage; without doing all these, the same corruption structure remains and it will still be exploited.

The Presidency is said to have been hijacked by a cabal. Do you believe this, going by the allegation recently made by the First Lady, Aisha Buhari?

I am not an occupant of Aso Rock, so I don’t really know if it has been hijacked or not. And, I don’t know if it has been invaded or not, because I don’t have access to Aso Rock.

The recent amendment to the Code of Conduct Bureau and CCT Acts were believed to have been due to the ongoing trial of Saraki. Is that correct?

For everything in this world, there is a reason; situations give birth to circumstances. We amended the Act of the Independent National Electoral Commission because Prince Abubakar Audu died and we discovered that there was no provision in our laws for somebody who eventually won an election and died before swearing-in. So, the lacuna in our law necessitated the amendment of the law. For every amendment, there is a reason for it. I want to say that the reason for all the amendments in the CCB and CCT Acts are also as a result of necessity. I want you to disassociate the person and personality of Saraki from any amendment because Bukola Saraki is occupying an office that is time-bound. These laws will live beyond him. They are lifetime established laws for generations yet unborn. It will outlive all of us and people should not tie a particular law to a particular individual. Laws are made for man and not man for laws.

Since the death of the former Minister of State for Labour, James Ocholi (SAN), Kogi State has not been represented in the federal cabinet. Are you satisfied?

I moved a motion today (Wednesday) on the floor of the Senate quoting the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Section 14, saying the people of Kogi State have been automatically robbed socially, economically and politically because for eight months now we don’t have a minister. Our mileage has been completely shortened and the provision of the constitution made it explicitly clear that there shall be, meaning that at all times there must be one minister from each state of the federation. So for me, it is a constitutional breach that for eight months, we are not represented in the federal cabinet. That has been taken care of and we got the resolution of the House, mandating Mr. President to immediately recommend to the Senate for screening a minister representing Kogi state.

Recently, you had an altercation with a fellow senator, Oluremi Tinubu, what is the update?

For me, old things have passed away and behold they have become new. I leave the dead to sleep.

It was alleged that she was not the one you were targeting but her husband because of the role he played in an attempt to stop Saraki from becoming Senate President.

I am trying to emphasise again that I don’t cry over spilt milk. The things of history are left in the realm of history. I have moved on.

Why is it difficult for Saraki to publish details of the National Assembly’s budget, despite his promise to do so? Is he or the Senate up to something else?

The truth of the matter is that the Freedom of Information Bill has been passed; Nigerians should take the opportunity of the FoI Bill to ask any Nigerian anywhere, not only the National Assembly, including the President, any question they want. You have the right to write Saraki and ask him any question about the finances of the National Assembly and he is obliged by law within seven days to respond. There is no secret about that.

You are from the Okun Yoruba-speaking part of Kogi State and your people have been crying of marginalisation by the Igala ethnic nationality that has been controlling the political machinery of the state. What are the chances of the Okun people producing the next governor?

Power is not given; power is taken and when it is time for us to get it, we will take it.

What is your relationship with your governor, Yahaya Bello? It is believed that you are having some altercations over the sharing of political offices in Kogi State?

The relationship between me and the governor is the relationship between a citizen and his governor. He is my governor and I am a citizen of the state.

Where is Mrs. Melaye and what can you say specifically about your marital life?

I am single. I have three children. But I am not married. I won’t remain single forever. Very soon I will invite you (to my wedding) and I assure you (that the person I will marry) will be a Made-in-Nigeria woman.

Why do you find it difficult to settle down with one woman?

I have always been married to one woman and all my children are from one woman. I have only been married once. Whatever marriage I am going into now will be my second marriage. If you are anxious to know, I will invite you.

Are you ruling out the possibility of reconciling with your wife?

I don’t have a wife.

Some Nigerians have a negative perception about you. Are you not disturbed by that?

There is no negative perception about me on social media. I appreciate those who appreciate me and I get a lot of support from there. I get a lot of encouragement. Nigerians have demonstrated love for me. I don’t think there is any politician that has the kind of followers I have on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and I get a lot of love and appreciation from Nigerians. But you cannot rule out those who will antagonise you. It’s normal and it happened to Jesus Christ and Prophet Muhammad. It is the same with everybody. You can’t be loved by all but I want to say that all those who dislike me, who blackmail me, and lie against me,  are giving vitamins to my soul and it makes me fresh.

Why do you love cars?

I love automobiles and everybody can be passionate about a particular thing. Some can be passionate about homosexuality. They can spend any amount of money to sleep with a man. Some are passionate about occultism. They can buy blood at any amount of money. Some are passionate about diamonds; you can ask Diezani (Alison-Madueke). My passion is automobiles and there is no crime in that and I am very proud of it. Once the automobiles are not products of crime and they are not got from any ill-gotten wealth, then a man should be proud about what he is passionate about. I love automobiles and I am waiting for the next collection.

You have ordered for more cars at this period of economic recession, when many Nigerians, even those from your constituency and senatorial district cannot feed and there is poverty everywhere?

Yes, my cars cannot underwrite the recession problems of this country. Even if you sell my cars now, it will not make Nigeria to come out of recession.

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Presidency Lauds Saraki Over Reform of Budget Process

The Presidency on Thursday commended the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki. for initiating the reform of the nation's budgeting process. It said the executive fully supports the move.

Minister of Budget and National Planning, Mr. Udoma Udo Udoma, according to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Senate President, Sanni Onogu, disclosed this during the formal presentation of the report of the Technical Committee on the Budget Reform Process in Nigeria, inaugurated by the Senate President on July 25, 2016.

"This initiative of Your Excellency, the Senate President, is an initiative that has the full support of the executive," Udoma said. "We believe that the budget and the budget process is something that we have to work on together closely and collaboratively.

"Consequently, your initiative to look at the reform of the process is an initiative that we welcome and which was why the Director General of the Budget Office, with my authority, participated fully in the deliberations.

"As the Senate Leader indicated, the success of any budget depends on very close collaboration between the executive and the legislature. I believe that this process that you have embarked on and the reforms will help to smoothen some of the issues that arise from time to time when we are considering the budget," he said.

In his remarks after receiving the report from the Chairman of the Technical Committee and Leader of the Senate, Senator Ali Ndume, the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, described the report as one of the most important exercises of the Senate so far, while commending the Committee for complying with the stipulated time frame for the exercise.

Saraki also commended the Minister of Budget and National Planning for his participation in the processes that led to the report, saying, "I think as a country, what we are doing today is long overdue for us to have reviewed the budget process. I think we are truly building a solid foundation for the years ahead.

"I agree that the recommendations require the review of certain laws, but I think there are some of them that have to do with processes. I think we can immediately begin to implement those that have to do with processes.

"As we all know, for many years, this has been an area of acrimony and disaffection between the two arms of government which is mainly due to ambiguities in some of the laws and processes," Saraki said.

The Senate President specifically noted the recommendation in the report dealing with pre-budget participation of the public in the process as he said "there is really very little participation of the public in the process".

"We have public hearings on so many things but the most important law that we have to pass, has very little participation of the public. I am happy it was captured in this report that even when we do the review of the budget, the public should also participate," he stated.

Earlier, Senator Ndume noted that the low development indicators and lackluster performance of the economy in general are not unconnected with inefficient and ineffective public financial management and budgeting in particular.

He noted that the broad objective of the exercise is to address the pitfalls and challenges in the budget process and significantly improve formulation, enactment, implementation, monitoring and evaluation with a view to improving budget performance and development outcomes.

“Midwives Are Well Placed To Make A Significant Contribution To Saving Lives.” HE Toyin Saraki

Thursday 3 November, 2016, Abuja, Nigeria

Today, Founder-President of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, HE Toyin Saraki delivered the keynote speech during the Women Pre-Conference of the 4th Nigeria Family Planning Conference at the Centre for Women Development in Abuja. The theme was: Women and Family Planning in Nigeria: A critical Requirement for Harnessing Demographic Dividend for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

HE Toyin Saraki commenced her speech by emphasising the importance of family planning for women and how its benefits go beyond women and mothers. “Family planning is more than contraception. It means much more than the avoidance or delay of pregnancy or childbearing. Family planning has been adjudged as one of the most positively impactful interventions in human and societal development. It is an enabler - an empowerment approach.”

“Women are key if we want to achieve the demographic dividend that comes with an interplay of reduced total fertility rate (TFR), an expanded base of the working-age population, and improved educational, infrastructural and healthcare investments. This holds true anywhere in the world, including low-income and high-income countries. In developing policies and programming of family planning, the voices and sensitivities of the women need to be considered. Without speaking with the women of Nigeria and learning what they need, we are again deciding for them and not providing what they need. “

Mrs. Saraki, who promotes midwifery globally as International Confederation Of Midwives" Global Goodwill Ambassador concluded with a pledge to utilize her new position as the United Nations Populations Fund (UNFPA) Family Planning Champion in Nigeria to advance family planning in Nigeria.

The event also had in attendance a representative of the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development and the National Population Council, the Country Director of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, dignitaries from the Association for the Advancement Family Planning, Police Wives Association, Market Women Association and lots of other women organisations.


-ends-


Note to Editor:

The Women Pre-Conference is in preparation for the 4th Nigerian Family Planning Conference which will be holding between 7th – 9th November, 2016. The theme for this year’s Conference is ‘Family Planning in Nigeria: The Journey so far’. The Event will take place in Sheraton Hotel, Abuja

*#TodayInPlenary: SENATE PROCEEDINGS OF THURSDAY 3RD NOVEMBER 2016.*

Senate President Bukola Saraki presided over plenary.

Senator Adamu Abubakar moves for the approval of Votes and Proceedings of Wednesday 2nd November 2016 and Senator Yayi Adeola seconded.

*PETITIONS*
Senator Sam Anyanwu Reads 39 petitions that emanated from office of the Senate President.

The petitions are referred to Committee on Ethics Privileges and Public Petitions.

*POINTS OF ORDER*
Senator James Manager raises a point of order urging the Committee on Ethics to be guided by the Senate rules and discard frivolous petitions.

‎Coming from a point of order Senate Leader, Ali Ndume raised a motion on a publication on page 6 of the SUN Newspaper of 2nd November 2016. Titled: 2016 Budget: Blame NASS for failure to meet the October timing.

"The MTEF is empty, it has been reviewed by some of my colleagues, it contains nothing and how do we consider nothing"? - Ali Ndume.

"This is a very important issue which is why the Leader brought it, it is not an issue of blame games" -

"I called the Minister of Budget and he confirmed that he was quoted out of context that he will address this" - Sen Akpan Basssey

‎"It is important to let Nigerians know that we're ready to take the Budget Planning at any time, this is not time to point fingers" – Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu .

*CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS*
Two Reports were considered they are:

1. Report of the Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND Gross Mismanagement of Education Tax Fund. By Sen. Jibrin Barau (Kano North).

Outcome: All Recommendations were adopted.

2. Report of the Committee on Health. Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Food Act 2004. SB. 55. By Sen. Lanre Tejuosho .

Outcome ‎: Considered and passed for third reading.

*ADJOURNMENT*
Senate Leader moves for other items on the order paper be stood down to another legislative and Minority Leader Seconded. Senate President puts the question.
Plenary is adjourned to Tuesday 8th November 2016.

*PIB: Senate Set to Introduce Host Community Development Legislation*


Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Wednesday, November 3rd, 2016, stated that the Senate would be introducing a Host Community legislation to complement the Governance and Institutional Framework Bill of the revised PIB that passed Second Reading at the Senate on Wednesday.


In a statement signed by Mr. Yusuph Olaniyonu, the Special Adviser on Media & Publicity to the Senate President, Saraki stated that with the institutional and governance framework aspect of the PIB at the Committee Stage, it was necessary for the Senate to begin work on the passage of the host community development legislation, which is aimed at addressing issues relating to community participation, security, and the ecological debt incurred by host communities from oil extraction.


“For many years now the PIB has been stalled at different stages for one reason or the other,” Saraki stated, “At this point, the Senate is ready and willing to do everything that it takes to get Nigeria’s economy out of this recession — and the efficient and effective management of our oil resources is a key component of this.


“Now that the legislation to provide a governance and institutional framework for the petroleum industry has passed Second Reading, it is time to re-introduce the host community development legislation to address the legitimate agitations of the people of the Niger Delta,” he said.


By the calculation of the Senate President, work on the passage of the two key bills will be nearing completion stage before the end of the year.


The Senate President also stated that he has asked legislators from the Upper Legislative Chamber to  work together and introduce the host community development legislation, within four weeks, emphasising the fact that the predicaments of host communities that have faced the adverse effects of oil exploration for decades need to be addressed.


The version of the PIB that is now at Committee Stage is sponsored by Senator Omotayo D. Alasoadura and Twenty-eight Co-Sponsors. The Bill with the long title of “An Act to Provide for the Governance and Institutional Framework for the Petroleum Industry and for Other Related Matters” is aimed at creating an efficient and effective governing institution for the petroleum industry by defining  clear and separate roles for all involved entities and establishing a framework for the creation of commercially oriented and profit- driven petroleum bodies that ensure value addition and internationalization of the petroleum industry.

*Governor Okorocha Visits Senate, Preaches Unity in APC*

Worried by the cold relationship between the executive arm of government, the National Assembly and the party, Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC) Governors' Forum, Owelle Rochas Okorocha of Imo state yesterday visited the Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki where he preached unity within the party.

Though, Governor Okorocha said that his visit to the Senate was belated, nonetheless, "it is never late to make amend where possible".

According to Okorocha who told Saraki that he was visiting in his capacity as the chairman of the APC Governors' Forum, said, " This is the very first time I am coming to your office and I am here because I am concerned.
"I am here because I am a stakeholder. I am here as the Chairman of the Progressives Governors' Forum - your friends and colleagues in the struggle. Mr. Senate President, leaders of these great Senate, you may recall a few years ago that we were all in the trenches, in battle, asking for change in the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I recall vividly the role most of you played in that very struggle.

"We became a government when no one gave us a chance to be so. And shortly, Nigerians believed in us and entrusted us with the responsibility of leading this nation. But one year and several months after, we have not been able to manage this God-given victory very well and it is very worrisome, Mr. Senate President.

"That Nigerians expects so much from us but yet we seem to be in crisis within ourselves. Not crisis made by the opposition parties but crisis created by ourselves for ourselves and which has kept us in total difficult position that we are not making the headway we need to make as a party.

"One wonders then what went wrong. Where did we get it wrong? And after these troubles and after the much hope we have given to Nigerians, we still cannot work together as a party, as a family. And I noticed particularly that there is so much bitterness in the system - from the party, from the legislature, from the executive, from the governors - and it seems to me like there is no more platform for us to chant those old songs which we used to sing in the days of struggle for change. One wonders, was this what we were asking for or was this the change we were asking for. I think Nigerians expect so much from us and at the end of it all.

"Nigerians will not ask us, how many of each other we have been able to destroy or how many we have been able to bring down. But they will ask us how many plates of food have we put on the table of the common man who elected us. So, I am here Mr. President of the Senate to call for unity among us and our party. And to sheath our sword in whatever form anger has gotten to us.

"We noticed and we know that we are a party in majority at the National Assembly and we are a party with majority in the number of governors - state houses of assembly - but we notice there is no cordial relationship between the Governors, the Executive and the legislature.
"And let me reemphasize that in all these arms of government, it is only the legislature with the executive that are the elected members. Not the Judiciary. And Nigerians will hold us responsible as the executive and legislative arms of government. So, we must act quickly to ensure peace reigns among us. I have discussed with the party - that was my first point of call - to seek what we must do to forge a way forward.

"The Governors recently met with the President all in a bid to move this party forward and bring about unity. Today, I am before you, the Senate President, number three citizen of this country and I ask you to use your wisdom to bring peace among our party. We need to enjoy that very vibrancy for which the National Assembly has been known for. We need to enjoy those things that PDP used to enjoy when they were a majority in the National Assembly.

"The APC government must see you as majority in the National Assembly not minority in the house. My Senate President, my Senate President, my Senate President, to whom much is given, much is expected and two wrongs can never make a right. It takes one arm of a relationship to make good the other. I liken my situation to what I see in my own government that it is difficult to succeed as an executive if you do not have the proper support of the legislature.
"I will appeal that we make amends where possible to ensure smooth running of the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. And we intend again, to hold a meeting between the executive, the legislature and the governors and the presidency as soon as possible. I may suggest that His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, has also agreed to address the leadership of our party very soon. But before then, I think all the rough edges must be smoothened.

"So we can truly tell the world that we are the government in power - our government is in the majority. Again, I want to thank you for the time taken to receive me and pray that this very visit would mark a new beginning in our relationship. Thank you", the Imo State Governor said.

In his response, the Senate President told the Chairman of APC Governors' Forum that he has raised vital issues that the APC National Assembly caucus would look into, while assuring the Governor that the Senate will work in synergy to deliver the dividends of democracy to Nigerians that voted the APC into power.

Dr. Saraki admitted that the crisis in the party is surmountable, saying nonetheless that the doors of National Assembly is open to the party as he noted that it remains a surprise that the leadership of the APC has not deemed it fit in the last 16 months to visit and meet with their members in the National Assembly.

He maintained that with synergy between the party, the executive and legislature, the interest of the common man would be maintained.

The Senate President told the Chairman of APC Governors' Forum that the Senate is already working to complement the executive arm in churning out laws that will help turn around the economy.

"Today in the senate plenary, the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) has passed its second reading while other economic reform laws has been passed into law.

He also told Governor Okorocha that the Senate has passed a resolution on the 21-Point Economic plan to bring the country's economy out of recession.

Dr. Saraki who was joined by Senate leader, Ali Ndume, Senators Fino Melaye, Rafiu Ibrahim, Hama Isa Misau and Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi in receiving Okorocha further said that the APC caucus in the Senate is working with their colleagues in the other parties to ensure that issues of security, economic development and corruption are concentrated upon in the remaining tenure of the current Senate.

*SUMMARY OF SENATE PROCEEDINGS FOR TUESDAY, 1ST NOVEMBER, 2016.*

 
Senate President, Abubakar Bukola Saraki leads the Senate into Plenary for today’s proceedings

Senator Jide Omoworare moved for the approval of Votes and Proceedings of Thursday 27th October, 2016 and Senator Danjuma Goje seconded.


*PETITION*

Senator Sonni Ogbuoji lays a petition from his constituency on unlawful disengagement while Senator David Umaru also lays two petitions from his constituents over unlawful dismissals. The Petitions are referred to the ‪#EthicsPPPCtteefor further legislative action.


*ANNOUNCEMENT*


Senate President, Bukola Saraki reads a letter from Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari on the appointment of the Managing Director of the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation.


The Senate President Bukola Saraki also announces membership of Conference Committees for some bills.

 
*PRESENTATION OF BILLS*


Senate Leader, Ali Ndume moves to the presentation of several 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) Bill 2016.


The Constitution Amendment Bills are referred to the Senate Constitutional Amendment Committee for further legislative work.

*PRESENTATION OF A REPORT*

Senate moves for the presentation of the report of the Committee on INEC. INEC Act (Amendment) Bill 2016 (SB. 231 & 234). By Senator Abubakar Kyari. He lays the report of the INEC Committee.

*EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATION*


1. 2016 – 2018 External Borrowing Plan.

That the Senate do consider the request of the President C-in-C on the 2016-2018 External Borrowing Rolling Plan.


Senate President Bukola Saraki puts the question and Senate votes NAY to the request of Mr. President on 2016 External Borrowing Plan. The request for the approval for external borrowing was turned down due to lack of documents supporting the request as referenced in the letter.

2. Confirmation of Nomination. 

Senate approves the confirmation of nomination of Mr. Igo Weli by the Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari as a Representative of Oil Companies in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in accordance with section 2(2)(a) of the NDDC Act, 2000.


The confirmation of Mr. Igo Weli is referred to the Senate Committee on Niger Delta for further legislative action. 


3. Confirmation of Nomination.

 Senate moves to the confirmation of the nomination of 46 Non-Career Ambassador Designates by President Muhammadu Buhari.


Senate President puts the question and refers the confirmation of the 46 Non-Career Ambassador Nominees to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.


*POINT OF ORDER*

Senator Phillip Aduda raises a Point of Order on the Exclusion of the Federal Capital Territory from having either a Career or Non-Career Ambassadorial Nominee.


Senate President Bukola Saraki urged the Committee on Foreign Affairs to look into the matter in the course of the confirmations.



*MOTIONS*

1. Senate Leader, Ali Ndume opens the debate on his motion on the need to avoid the mismanagement of the N500Billion Social Intervention Funds.


Senator Ndume notes that the National Assembly fully approved the request of the executive in the 2016 Budget to facilitate the N500B Fund.


He observed that the current economic situation and the need to have a social intervention scheme that can lift people out of poverty, was the overriding concern of the National Assembly when it did not insist on having a proper framework before approval.

Senator Ndume says he expects the social intervention fund should get to all the 9, 572 Wards of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.


Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu says he cannot find any beneficiary of the programmes of the Social Intervention Funds in his Local Government.


Ekweremadu adds that Senate Leader Ali Ndume has done the right thing via this motion to call the attention to it. Senator Bala Ibn Na'Allah in his contribution says aspects of the implementation of the Social Intervention Funds run foul of the Constitution. He asked how the people in the hinterland and localities are supposed to get online to register on the website.


Senator Ndume notes further that the concept of NPOWER requiring people to register online is faulty and discriminates against rural dwellers.


Senators Hope Uzodinma and Biodun Olujimi also condemn the implementation as not far - reaching to all nooks and corners of the Country.

Senate President Bukola Saraki asked that Chairman of the Committee on Poverty Alleviation, Senator Ali Wakili shed more light on some of these concerns.

Senator Wakili says the Social Intervention Plans isn't domiciled in any ministry but managed in the Vice President’s Office, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo by Consultants.


He says further that he expects the National Assembly as the representative of the people to be carried along but this isn't the case.


Senator Danjuma Goje speaks on his insistence on the details of the plans of the Social Intervention Funds while it was being considered. Senator Buhari Abdulfatai says his people in Iwajowa don't even have network to make phone calls not to speak of getting online.


On his part, Senator Dino Melaye says the challenge is that there is simply no trust between the Executive and the Legislature.


Senator Dino Melaye added that Nigeriens, Beninoise and Camerounians could as well claim being Nigerians and apply since it's online. He concludes that a programme of action on the implementation of the Intervention Fund has to be brought to the senate


Senate resolves that manual registration of beneficiary from all Wards and Local Governments in the Country be incorporated in the N500B Intervention program.


Senate also resolves that a clear accountability channel must be created, continuously audited and submitted to the National Assembly.


Senate President, Bukola Saraki says despite good intentions, the N500B might not achieve what it intend to achieve with the current implementation.

The Senate President charges the appropriate committee to work with the executive to ensure the success of the Social Intervention Fund.


2. The Motion on the need to give recognition to Anambra and Kogi States as oil producing states and to forestall further hostilities between the warring communities of Odeke Echeno in Ibaji Local Government area of Kogi State and Enugu-Otu Guleri and Eziagulu-Otu in Anambra State. By Senator Stella Oduah. Stella Oduah notes that the presidential declaration granting the status of an Oil producing State to Anambra State was not gazetted. She however says some corrections need to be made regarding the motion and wishes to stand it down.


The Motion is stood down to another legislative day.



3. Senate moves to the motion on addressing the problem of the rehabilitation of prison inmates through Agricultural Training Programes of the Nigerian Prisons Service by Senator Mao Ohuabunwa. Senator Ohuambuwa says that savings made from proceeds, payable at point of inmate disengagement from Prisons, will serve both the reformed Prisoners and the Nation. Senators Bayero Nafada and Emmanuel Bwacha also spoke in support the motion. They remind other Senators that the prisons are for rehabilitation.


Senate President Bukola Saraki says the Senate recently debated a bill on Prison Reforms and it will comprise these matters.

Senate resolves to invite the Nigerian Prisons Service to brief the Committee on interior on its programmes for rehabilitating prison inmates.

 

*ADJOURNMENT*


Senate Leader moves that all other matters on the Order Paper be stepped down to the next legislative day and Minority Leader seconds.

Senate President Bukola Saraki puts the question and plenary is adjourned to Wednesday 2nd November, 2016.

Gov Ahmed Vows to Sanitize Kwara LG System

Ahead of the expiration of the tenure of Local Government Chairmen, the Kwara State Government has vowed to sanitize the local government system in the state in order to make the third tier of government viable and self-sustaining.

The State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, made this commitment during a meeting with 2013-2016 local government councillors at the Government House in Ilorin, the state capital. The Councillors had visited to appeal for the payment of their furniture allowance before the end of their tenure.

Alhaji Ahmed said the current recession and the apparent inefficiencies in the third tier of government have made it imperative to reform the management of local councils in the state in order to ensure that they can meet their obligation to the people, especially in terms of salaries and low-level development projects.

The governor noted that by the time elections are held into the Councils, the local governments would have been made fit for purpose through the ongoing IGR reforms and the biometric verification of staff.

He assured them that once the economic situation in the country improves and the government receives expected revenue inflows, the local government councils would pay the councillors and others the statutory allowances and entitlements due to them.

Alhaji Ahmed stressed that current financial challenges in the councils cannot support the bulk payment of all outstanding payments, emphasizing that payments can at best be in installments once the revenue situation permits.

He expressed concern about the salary arrears owed local council workers and the political office holders, which he described as an unfortunate situation and expressed optimism that the situation will soon be remedied.

Stressing that political office is by nature a time-bound call to service, Governor Ahmed urged the outgoing councillors to key into the State government’s SME scheme so as to continue to earn sustainable living after leaving office.

Present at the meeting were the representatives of the councils from local government councillors in the state, Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Isiaka Gold, Chief of Staff, Alhaji Babatunde Abdulwahab, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Haruna Muhammed, Special Adviser, Security, Alhaji Amusa Bello, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and the Senior Special Assistant, Government House, Alhaji Kayode Ibrahim

#TIC: Comrade Kazeem's Nomination; Beginning of Good Thing to Kwara Youth‎


National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Kwara state chapter has described the nomination of the state Chairman of NYCN, Comrade Kazeem Adekanye as one of the three nominees for the position of Chairman of Irepodun LGA Transition Implementation Committee (TIC), as the beginning of good thing to happen to youths in the state. ‎
‎
According to a statement by Comrade Bamikole Oladele Babs, the Director of Media and Publicity, NYCN Kwara State Chapter, said the nomination of Comrade Kazeem Adekanye and other young individuals in other LGAs would further strengthen our democracy and give the youth sense of belonging and hope.

Comrade Bamikole Oladele Babs said, "Comrade Kazeem Adekanye's wealth of experience in youth coordination and landmark achievements in good governance as well as fair representation would assist to bring dividend of democracy to the grassroot".‎

The NYCN use this medium to express appreciation to the various youths groups that has shown solidarity and excitement over this development as he called for prayer to make Adekanye's final ratification and emergence a reality.  
‎
The Council, however, commended the state government for living up to expectation and solicit for more support and corporation for Governor AbdulFatah Ahmed in his bid to positively transform the lives of youth in the  state.‎‎

*ICM Global Goodwill Ambassador Toyin Saraki Congratulates Trinidad & Tobago Midwifery Association - Mamatoto Annual Midwifery Conference*

Sunday 29 October 2016
HE Toyin Saraki, Founder-President of The Wellbeing Foundation Africa congratulates the Trinidad and Tobago Midwifery Association - Mamatoto Annual Midwifery Conference. The 2-Day Mamatoto Annual Midwifery Conference took place in Trinidad and Tobago on Thursday 27 and Friday 28 October.



Mrs Saraki while congratulating the midwives, policymakers, key thought leaders, and all participants at the Mamatoto Midwifery Conference, highlighted the role and importance of midwives in the life of a new born and also in the life of the mother.



“Sincerest congratulations to all of you here today, the midwives, policymakers, key thought leaders, all convened at this Mamatoto Annual Midwifery Conference, in Trinidad And Tobago, whose drive, resourcefulness, and sheer brilliance has made a positive difference to thousands upon thousands of lives around the world. It is with great disappointment that I cannot be there with you today, but my warmest wishes and greatest goodwill are with you all.



You are the educators and advocates for families to community leaders, governments, and the world at large. The antenatal experience – one of humanity’s most mysterious life experiences – is something you navigate every single day without panic. Without your voices, pregnancy and childbirth would be a frightening experience for many.

You are the voice for families. But you are also so much more. Yours are the first hands to hold a baby, the chariot that brings them into the world, and the touch that gives them life.”

#ABSConstituencyProjectUpdates

1. Construction of 2 blocks of classrooms at Oke Adini Secondary School, Ilorin South

2. Construction of 2 blocks of classrooms at Ode Giwa Primary School, Asa.
:
3. Construction of 24 number of burnt shops at Oja Tuntun market, Ilorin

4. Construction of erosion control drainage at Adisco area, Gaa Imam, Oko Erin ward, Ilorin west

5. Construction of 1.5km road at Alfa Yahaya - Idigba - Gaa Aremu area, Adewole ward, Ilorin west (on-going)

6. Construction of 600m road at Balode street, along Adio lodge, Ogidi ward, Ilorin west

7. Construction of 2.6km road at Otte Etile - Ballah communities, Asa (on-going)

8. Construction of 650 meters of road at Adewumi Abake srteet, off Agbabiaka road, Gaa Akanbi area, Ilorin South.

9. Construction of Ubandawaki road from Pakata round about to Govt Girls Day Sec School also commenced

10. Expansion and Rehabilitation of Agba Dam water works a 300 million Naira Constituency Project

11. Rehabilitation of dysfunctional boreholes across the Local Government within the Emirate LGs is on technical assessment stage. Works will commence on rehabilitation and replacement soon

12. Construction of Ubandawaki - Govt Girls Day Sec School road, 1.2km

13. Expansion and Rehabilitation of Agba Dam Water works.

Signed :

Olayinka Ibraheem

Director of Project ABS Constituency Office.

*#TodayInPlenary: SUMMARY OF SENATE PROCEEDINGS FOR THURSDAY 27TH OCTOBER 2016.*

Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu ‎presided of plenary.
‎
Senator Ben Bruce moved for the approval of votes and proceedings of Wednesday 26th October 2016 and Senator Ahmed Lawan Seconded.
‎
*POINT OF ORDER‎*
‎
Senator Ali Ndume raised a point of order on the 500 million allocated for social intervention and its approach; and called on the executive to come before the Senate to explain its execution plans to accommodate all the regions.

It was referred to the next legislative day.‎

*PRESENTATION OF REPORTS*
Two reports were laid they are:
‎
1. Report of the Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND. Gross Mismanagement of Education Tax Fund. By Sen. Jibrin Barau.


2. ‎Report of the Committee on Ethics Privileges and Public Petitions on the Code of Conduct Act Amendment Bill, ‎2016 (HB. 230) By Sen. Sam Anyanwu

‎*CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS*
‎
1. Report of the Committee on Ethics Privileges and Public Petitions on the Code of Conduct Act Amendment Bill, ‎2016 (HB. 230) By Sen. Sam Anyanwu
‎
Senators Ali Ndume, Joshua Lidani, Barnabas Gemade, Ahmed Lawan, Yahaya Abdulahi, Shehu Sani, and Enyinnaya Abaribe contributed to the debate.

OUTCOME: Thoroughly debated and passed ‘Third” reading.

2. Report of the Committee on Communications on the NCC 2016 Budget. By Senator Gilbert Nnaji (Enugu East).

DSP Ike Ekweremadu says the year is running out and that Budget should be submitted on time for consideration and necessary approval.

OUTCOME: Without further debate the report was adopted.
‎
3. Report of the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters. Sexual Harassment in Tertiary Education Institution Bill. (SB. 262).

Senators Ovie Omo- Agege, Enyinna Abaribe, Binta Masi Garba, Biodun Olujimi, ,Ben Murray Bruce, Oluremi Tinubu, Ali Ndume and Yahaya Abdullahi,.

"I want to thank my colleagues and the Committee members for the milestone achieved on the Sexual Harassment Bill. This Bill will go a long way in protecting our younger ones from harm & serves as deterrent to others who indulge in this act" - DSP, Ike Ekweremadu


OUTCOME: Thoroughly debated and passed "Third” reading.

*ADJOURNMENT*
Minority Leader moves that other content of the Order Paper should be stepped down to another legislative day and Minority Leader seconded.
Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu puts the question and plenary is adjourned to Tuesday 1st November 2016.

Toyin Saraki Commends Cambridge University In Waiving Application Fees For Post-Graduate Students From African Countries

Wednesday 26 October 2016, London

HE Toyin Saraki, Founder-President of The Wellbeing Foundation Africa commended the leadership at Cambridge University for waiving application fees for African students.
This announcement was made at Cambridge-Africa Day on Tuesday 25 October, where Mrs. Saraki gave the afternoon keynote speech on the importance of closer collaboration between African health specialists and global universities such as Cambridge University.

She noted how academic research cascades down to affect individuals at a community level and frontline health workers. Other speakers of the day included Professor Richard Leakey the palaeontologist and Professor Ebenezer Owusu, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana.

“I am so pleased by the news from Cambridge University. Yesterday I was hugely encouraged by the sheer quality of much needed research, led by African post graduate students, from Nigeria, Ghana and Uganda, to name just a few, in close collaboration with their research mentors from Cambridge University. The collaborations demonstrated that clear solutions to challenges that have bedevilled the global development community: from predicting, preventing and patient management of pre-eclampsia and adverse drug reactions and pharmaco vigilance ‎in patients of African descent; to the environmental importance of bat conservation to agricultural ecology and in turn or food security, could be solved.

“In truth, the African solutions to African challenges will come from raising African research to the highest of global excellence, as manifested by the quality emanating from empowering African students to pursue further skills at Cambridge, a leading global institution. I commend the leadership of Cambridge University in waiving application fees for African post-graduate students as a step of singular goodwill towards global development, that will reverberate for generations.

“An old African proverb is that ‘It is the person that wear the shoe that knows where it is pinching’ this application fee waiver will allow more African students of deserving intellect, to access the opportunities of ground-breaking research, to return with greater skills, which can be applied to our local challenges, that may hitherto have gone un-researched and unsolved due to the global institutions not knowing the challenges existed.”

-end-


Notes to Editor:

For more information on Cambridge-Africa Day and the application fee announcement, please click here: http://www.cam.ac.uk/news/cambridge-has-waived-application-fee-for-graduate-students-from-most-african-countries%E2%80%8E

*SUMMARY OF SENATE PROCEEDINGS FOR WEDNESDAY 26TH OCTOBER, 2016.*

It’s a new legislative day in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu leads the Senate Leadership into plenary. DSP Ekweremadu takes the official prayers. Deputy Chief Whip, Senator Francis Alimikhena calls the Senate to Order for plenary to commence. Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi moves for the approval of the Votes and Proceedings of Tuesday 25th October 2016 and Senator Biodun Olujimi seconds.

DSP Ike Ekweremadu reads a letter from @NGRPresident Muhammadu Buhari requesting early approval for the Federal Government 2016 – 2018 borrowing plan. The borrowing plan covers different all sectors such as Agriculture, Health, Water, Employment Creation, Poverty Eradication et al
Senate now moves to the Presentation of Reports.

1. Report of the Committee on Communications on the 2016 Budget of Nigerian Communications Commission is laid by Senator Gilbert Nnaji.

2. Report of the Committee on Communications on the 2016 Budget of the Universal Service Provision Fund is laid by Senator Gilbert Nnaji.

Senate now moves to Consideration of Bills for Second Reading.

1. A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Management, Administration, Operation, Regulation and Supervision of Payment, Clearing and Settlement Systems in the Federal Republic of Nigeria and to provide for other related matters 2016 (SB. 05) by Senator Hope Uzodinma is stood down.

2. A Bill for an Act to provide for Effective and Transparent Administration, Management and Control of Payment, Clearing & Settlement processes in Nigeria and for related matters 2016 (SB. 268) by Senator John O. Enoh.
Senator John Enoh rise to lead the debate saying E – Commerce is on the rise all over the world with Nigeria Inclusive. "500Million tweets go out daily, with 1million YouTube users; over 45 million Nigerians are active daily on the Internet"- Sen. John Enoh. Senator Ibrahim Gobir adds that "E – Commerce has taken over the whole world and with that we can make billions daily”.
"E – Commerce is on the rise and has come to stay. This bill will address the legal lacuna that exists in E- Commerce." – Senator Shehu Sani speaks. Senators Sam Egwu & Yahaya Abdullahi supports the bill saying that it is a very straight forward bill that will move the country forward.
The Bill for an Act to provide for Effective and Transparent Administration, Management and Control of Payment, Clearing and Settlement Processes in Nigeria and for related matters 2016 (SB. 268) by Senator John Enoh is passed for second reading.
DSP Ike Ekweremadu refers the bill to Committee on Finance to report back in 4 Weeks.

3. A Bill for an Act to Repeal the Consumer Protection Act and establish Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission and other related matters 2016 (SB. 257) by Senator Andy Uba.

Senator Andy Uba leads the debate on the Consumer Protection Bill. Senator Uba says the importance of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Bill cannot be over emphasized as it will place consumers as Kings. This Bill is coming at a right time. It will place consumers where they belong especially in this time of economic challenges says Senator Mao Ohuabunwa. Senator Jibrin Barau speaking on the bill says “certain people have monopolized a section of the market. This bill will help all of us".

The Bill for an Act to Repeal the Consumer Protection Act and establish Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission and other related matters 2016 (SB. 257) by Senator Andy Uba is read for the second time and passed. Deputy Senate President Ekweremadu comments that "this is a very important bill aimed at protecting consumers from indiscriminate actions of certain marketers and producers. When there is competition, prices are lower". DSP Ike Ekweremadu appreciates Senator Uba the sponsor of the bill and refers the bill to the Committee on Trade & Investment to report back in 4weeks.

4. A Bill for an Act to Amend the Hydroelectric Power Producing Area Development Commission, 2016 (SB. 89) by Senator David Umaru.
Senator David Umaru lead the debate on the #HydroElectricPowerBill . "I rise to support this very straight forward bill and urge my colleagues to do the same" - Senator Sabi Abdullahi. Senator James Manager warns against the expectations of the #HydroElectricPowerBill. Senators George Akume and Barnabas Gemade in supporting the bill say that Benue State should be included as part of the Power Producing Areas.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu advises Senator Gemade to take that up as a separate bill. The Bill for an Act to Amend the Hydroelectric Power Producing Area Development Commission (SB. 89) is read and passed for second reading. DSP Ike Ekweremadu refers the #HydroElectricPowerBill to the Senate Committee on Power to report back in 4weeks.

5*. A Bill for an Act to Repeal and Re – Enact the Prisons Act CAP P29 LFN 2004 Bill 2016 (SB. 125) by Senator Shaaba Lafiagi. *

Senator Lafiagi leading the debate on the #PrisonsBill decries the appalling situations in major Nigerian prisons and the urgent need for improvement.

6.* A Bill for an Act to Repeal and Re – Enact the Prisons Act CAP P29 LFN 2004 Bill 2016 (SB. 288) by Senator Babajide Omoworare.*

Senator Omoworare now leading the #PrisonsBill debate says that he accepts the provisions of Senator Lafiagi but calls for rehabilitation. He adds that “prisoners come home even worse; we need to redirect appropriations already made and rehabilitate our prisons as correctional services".

7. A Bill for an Act to Repeal and Re-enact the Prisons Act CAP P29 LFN 2004 (Amendment) Bill 2016 (SB. 191) by Senator Oluremi Tinubu
Senator Tinubu leads the debate on her own planned amendments of the #PrisonsBill. She laments the situation of nursing mothers and their children in Nigerian Prisons. She says “there is the need for a creche, nursery & a separate facility to improve conditions of Nursing Mothers and Children in Prison."

Senator Shehu Sani says he has been OPPORTUNED to stay in over 5 Prisons across the Federation; Kaduna Prisons, Kirikiri Prisons, Port Harcourt Prisons, Owerri Prisons, Enugu Prisons and Aba Prisons. He adds that "the only thing that has changed in our prisons in recent times is the uniform of in – mates". Senator Sani also adds that though no government wants to invest in Prisons but the conditions of these prisoners makes it a worthy investment.

Senator Gbenga Ashafa supporting the #PrisonsBill says that he is particular about the improvement and attitudinal change of inmates and he speaks on some of the measures taken while he served as a Permanent Secretary in Lagos State. Senator Utazi Chukwuka narrates the gory and deplorable state of Enugu Prisons. Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso says modern prisons should be built to accommodate prisoners as there are so many challenges with the operators too.

DSP Ike Ekweremadu says "we are working towards moving Prisons from the Exclusive List to Concurrent. He appreciates the three sponsors of the #PrisonsBill adding that it will help improve conditions of Prisons and Prisoners in Nigeria.

The #PrisonsBill SB. 125, 288, 191 are read and passed for Second Reading. DSP Ike Ekweremadu refers the #PrisonsBill to the Senate Committees on Interior and Judiciary, Legal Matters and Human Rights to report back in 4Weeks.
Majority Leader moves that other contents of the order paper be stepped down to another legislative day. The Minority Leader seconds. Majority Leader also moves that Plenary be adjourned to Thursday 27th October, 2016. Minority Leader seconds.
Deputy Senate president Ike Ekweremadu puts the question and plenary is adjourned to Thursday 27th October, 2016.
#GavelBangs

*SUMMARY OF SENATE PROCEEDINGS FOR TUESDAY 25TH OCTOBER, 2016*



Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu presided over plenary and leads the Senate into today’s plenary.


He reads a letter from President Muhammadu Buhari on Special Intervention Fund. The Special Intervention Fund is to fund Service Wide Votes for Police Academy, Amnesty Programme, Operation Lafiya Dole, Subsidy, Nigerian Air Force, Presidential Initiative on North East, National Youth Service Scheme etc.




*PETITIONS*

Senator Sonni Ogbuoji raises a Petition from his Constituency. He lays the Petition.


Senator Obinna Ogba also raises a petition from his Constituency against the Nigeria Police Force. He lays the Petitions.


Senator Solomon Yayi Adeola raises two petitions each against the Nigerian Shippers' Council and the Nigerian Identity Management Commission.


DSP Ekweremadu directs all petitions to the Senate #EthicsPPPCttee for further legislative action.


*MOTION*



1. Need for the Establishment of Inland Ports at Onitsha, Enugu and Other Land-locked States. By Senator Princess Stella Oduah (AnambraNorth). Senator Oduah speaks on the challenges that inland states have in navigation, export and import of goods. 


She observes that the existing maritime ports in Lagos, PortHarcourt and Calabar are already over-stretched. Senator Stella Oduah says further that she regrets the manpower and precious time lost in clearing goods that could have been spent on other productive ventures. Senator Joshua Lidani says the focus shouldn't be around the River Niger alone but inland ports should be looked at around River Benue too.


Senate Leader rises to say after due consultation, the motion should be stepped down to allow an all-inclusive approach to inland ports. The Minority Leader seconds and Senator Oduah who sponsored the motion on establishment of inland ports concurs. Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu steps down the motion on the establishment of inland ports to another legislative day.



2. National Youth Service Corps Mobilization. By Senator Jibrin Barau (Kano North). DSP Ekweremadu asks Senator Barau if he’s still interested in taking the motion as the letter from President Muhammadu Buhari already addressed the NYSC issues raised. Senator Barau steps down his motion and says he expects total mobilization of all eligible graduates as NYSC Corp members.


3. Need to include Pan-Africanism in Nigerian Secondary Schools Curriculum. By Senator Shehu Sani (Kaduna Central)


Senator Shehu Sani notes that the concept of Pan-Africanism started in the 19th Century as an ideology and movement that encouraged the solidarity of Africans worldwide based on the general believe that unity is vital and pertinent for economic, social and political progress.


He states further that Senate is worried that the struggle for the unity of Africa has rapidly evaporated from the psyche of the present and upcoming generation.


Senators Ali Wakili, Tijjani Kaura and Jibrin Barau join the call to include Pan- Africanism in Nigerian Schools' Curriculum. Senators took turns to speak on the dire need for History as a subject to be taught in Nigerian Schools.


Senate then resolves to urge the Federal Ministry of Education to include Pan-Africanism in Nigerian Secondary Schools' Curriculum.


4. Need to revisit the regulatory conflict between Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and Universities in offering admissions in Nigeria. By Senator Umaru Ibrahim Kurfi (Katsina Central) 

 He speaks on the hassles candidates face in gaining admissions into tertiary institutions.


Speaking in support of the motion, Senator Matthew Urhoghide says high marks don't even guarantee admissions in Nigeria and states that it's time to revisit JAMBS’s role in admissions as well as that of the Nigeria University Commission (NUC). He adds that the NUC actually has no role to play in admissions.


Senate now directs JAMB to develop strategy to ensure efficiency in its examinations conduct so that Students get placement in Universities.


5. Need for the re-establishment of Toll Gates on Federal Highways. By Senator Suleiman Nazif (Bauchi North)


Senator Nazif observes the deplorable state of road in Nigeria and notes the main purpose of toll gates for revenue generation.


Senator Nazif also recalls that toll gates were abolished by former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2004 who advocated that revenue for road maintenance should rather be generated from an increased pump price in petrol back then.


Senator Bukar Abba Ibrahim rises to support the re-introduction of toll gates on federal roads. Senate Leader Ali Ndume also supports the motion. He says its necessary as resources are limited and road maintenance is necessary.


Senator Biodun Olujimi also supports the motion for the re-introduction of toll gates on federal roads. He charges on the need for transparency of the toll collection agency in order to achieve the purpose of the tolling.


Senator Abdullahi Gumel and Sabi Abdullahi also support the motion on the re-establishment of toll gates on federal roads.


Senator Bassey Akpan observes the seriousness of the 8th Senate to road maintenance as they recently passed two bills on road construction.


Senator James Manager in his contribution said: “Roads in Nigeria are bad, from Trunk A to Trunk B to Trunk C, they are very bad".


He pleaded with the appropriate committee to go and understudy road construction and maintenance in developed nations.


Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu runs a history leading to the abolishing of toll gates in 2004. He harps on the need for best policy to manage it.


Senate accordingly resolves to study the toll gate policy together with other relevant stakeholders effective and efficient ways to carry out the policy aimed at producing a holistic package to generate adequate funds for roads maintenance, and the money realized should be judiciously utilized in order to restore confidence in the masses.


6. Urgent need to review the implementation status of Nigerian Automotive Industry Devt. Plan (NAIDP). By Senator Ali Wakili (Bauchi South) and Co-Sponsored by Senator Fatimat Rasaki (Ekiti Central)


Senator Wakili notes that the National Automotive Council was established in 1993 as a parastatal of the Ministry of Industry to ensure the growth and survival of the Automotive Industry using local, human and material resources.


Senator Wakili informs that the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment developed a 5-Year Programme on the Nigerian Industrial Revolution.


Senator Wakili is disturbed that the increase in tariff which raised domestic price of imported vehicles and spare parts compounded by high and scarce foreign exchange leave much to be desired especially in recognition of an estimated annual vehicular demand of over 500,000.


Senator Barnabas Gemade rises to dissect the motion. He speaks on the need for a way forward in the National Automotive Industry.


Senate directs its appropriate committees to conduct a public hearing on the Automotive Industry Development Plan and Industrial Revolution Plan.


7. Menace of street begging and the need to rehabilitate beggars. By Senator Isah Misau  (Bauchi Central). Senator Emmanuel Bwacha lends his support to the motion. He speaks on the many challenges that street begging brings.


Senator Abdullah Adamu shares his experience towards curbing street begging while he served as Nasarawa State Governor.


Senator Danjuma Goje also supports the motion on the menace of street begging and the need to rehabilitate beggars.


Senator Goje says there is the misconception within religious circles that begging is allowed. He harps on the need for enlightenment.


Deputy Senate Presidents,Ike Ekweremadu says there is a need for a bill on street begging. He adds that the culture doesn't portray us in good light. Senate resolves to call on Government to strengthen social welfare programmes to check the tide of the physically challenged turning to beggars.


Senate also calls on the Federal Government and States to set up rehabilitation centres and vocational centres.

Senate also resolves to articulate policies to re-integrate almajiris into the educational system to discourage them from street begging.


Senate Leader moves that all other matters in the order paper be stepped down to another legislative day. Minority Leader seconds.

Senate Leader moves that Plenary be adjourned to Wednesday 26th October, 2016 and Minority Leader seconds.

Saraki Begins N300m Constituency Intervention Projects In Ilorin
October 24, 2016Peter Moses


The Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki on Monday in Ilorin, Kwara state capital flagged off a N300 million water and road intervention projects for his constituency.

Under the scheme,both the low-lift and high-lift pumps at Agba dam water works, GRA, Ilorin will be replaced.

Some old components of the dam that was commissioned in 1959 will also be replaced.

The Senate President said the project which was captured in the federal government’s 2016 budget is being done to boost water supply to Ilorin metropolis.

Agba dam with capacity  of three million galons per day is complementing the Asa dam with 25 million galons capacity per day.

The Senate President equally flagged off the Pakata- Ubandawaki-Alaaya road project.

Saraki who was represented at the two events by the Director-General, ABS constituency office, Hon. Wahab Issa, said the projects were in  fulfilment of his campaign promises.

He assured Kwarans that his intervention projects, especially road construction will spread to every part of the state.

Shedding more light on Saraki’s- aided projects, a member of the House of Representatives, Ahman Bahago Patigi, said another N250 million would be spent on repair of boreholes in Kwara central senatorial district while N400 million has been earmarked for the provision of solar boreholes in the district.

He urged Kwarans to continue to support Saraki, saying the senate president’s passion for their wellbeing was unprecedented.

At the flag off of pakata road project, the Head of the community,Alh AbdulGafar Mahmud Ubandawaki thanked Saraki for his kind gesture.

He assured him of the continued support of the people of the area.

*Today on #BillTracker: National Assembly Budget and Research Office Act SB. 222 #NABROBill. By Senator Jide Omoworare (Osun East ).*

*TRACK RECORD*
First Reading : Tuesday 16th February, 2016
Second Reading: Wednesday 27th April, 2016.
Present Status: Committee on Establishment for further Legislative Input.

*The National Assembly Budget and Research Office Bill seeks to achieve the following:*

*The #NABROBill seeks to give power to any office to independently provide assistance to @nassnigeria on budgetary matters and ensure the requisite expertise, independence & transparency is given to such technical matters as budgets.

* #NABROBill will allow a proper review and analysis of budgetary proposals from the executive arm and help save costs and loopholes that seem deliberately created in the annual budgets as drain pipes.

*The #NABROBill SB. 222 will ensure legislation is made and decisions taken based on consideration of financial and economic impacts and provide an independent review of Federal Government budgets including monitoring of existing and proposed projects.

*The #NABROBill SB. 222 will also allow the indelible inputs of trained, specialized and seasoned bureaucrats and technocrats and enable the benefit of permanent and perpetual facts, figures, data and statistics to help the smooth passage of appropriation bills.

* #NABROBill SB 222 will ensure continuous, regular, periodic, timely & objective analysis and tracking of budgets at every point in time and effective oversight.

*The #NABROBill will provide Committees of the National Assembly Nigeria with an additional source of obtaining "essential budgetary information" needed when processing national budgets rather than statistics derived solely from the Executive.

*OTHER DETAILS OF THE #NABROBILL*

-The #NABROBill SB. 222 has 20 Clauses and 6 Schedules which will provide legal backing for the already existing office to provide unbiased & non - partisan analysis of budget estimates.

- #NABROBill SB. 222 will comprise of very sound structure with competent experts on budgets just as the Budget Office.

-The closest and only office that assists National Assembly budget - related matters is the National Institute for Legislative Studies but it does so in a generic nature in researching and analyzing legislation and policy issues; not specific to budgetary and economic matters.

-The United States which operates a Federal System of Government like ours has the United States Congressional Budget Office which #NABRO is designed to function like. Uganda a developing nation has the Legislative Budget Office, LBO which generally provides the Ugandan Parliament.

-Passage of the #NABROBill will offer a stable template to determine the allocative and operational efficiency of budget implementation. Abandonment of Government projects and repetitions will be halted as the #NABROBill will ensure a collation of unimplemented projects in the preceding year.

-#NABRO in its scrutiny of the #2016Budget detected about N200 Billion in abnormalities of repetitions, unidentified items and errors.

-It is noteworthy that the same #NABROBill was passed in the 6th and 7th Assemblies but unfortunately was not assented to.

-#NABRO has already been existing since 2012 with full structures and the #NABROBill passage will not add any financial burden.

Press Release

October 22, 2016

Saraki Leads NASS Delegation To IPU Assembly in Geneva

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, will on Sunday lead a National Assembly delegation to partake in the 135th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly taking place in Geneva, Switzerland, with the theme: "The Role of Parliaments in Protecting Human Rights of Citizens."

Saraki who is a member of the Governing Board of the IPU, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sanni Onogu, in Abuja, will deliver a speech to the Assembly, partake in debate, meet with the leadership Council of the Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves and Nigerians in Diaspora (NID) and hold meetings with other delegations at the sidelines.

Some of the issues slated for debates and consideration  during the session are: the draft resolution on The freedom of women to participate in political processes fully, safely and without interference: Building partnerships between men and women to achieve this objective, Human Rights abuses as precursors of conflict: Parliaments as early responders, expert hearing in the role of parliaments in preventing outside interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states and HIV/AIDS and maternal, newborn and Child health. 

Other delegates to the event taking place between 23rd - 27th October, 2016, include the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives who is Deputy Leader of Delegation, Hon. Sulaimon Lasun Yussuff, Senators Bayaro Usman Nafada, Kabiru Gaya, Rafiu Ibrahim and Stella Oduah.

Hon. Samuel Ikon, Hon. Raphael Nnanna, Igbokwe, Hon. Abubakar Hassan Fulata and Hon. Funke Adedoyin are attending from the Green Chambers while  Advisers on the team are Sen. Duro Faseyi and Hon. Abdulsamad Dasuki. 

Officials of the National Assembly in the team are the Clerk to the National Assembly, Mr. M.A. Sani-Omolori, Secretary Finance and Accounts, Alhaji Lasisi Bukoye, Clerk to the Senate, Nelson Ayewoh, Secretary to the National Group,  Mrs Rabi A. Audu, Director/Secretary to the Delegation, Lawal A. Garba, Director Special Duties, Ms. Iliya Navati, Clerk Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Okoh Bernard Uzeme, Clerk House Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Relations. Mrs Caroline Asan and the CAO of IPU Desk, Mr. Augustine Eseke.

Also participating in the event are the Special Assistant, Partnership/NGO to the Senate President, Innocent Onah and Special Assistant to the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Ahmed Madaki, among others.  

The delegation is expected back in the country next Thursday.

END

Signed:

Sanni Onogu

Chief Press Secretary to the Senate President

*#TodayInPlenary SUMMARY OF PROCEEDINGS FOR THURSDAY 20th October 2016*

Senate President Bukola Saraki Presided over Plenary

Senator Suleiman Adokwe moves for the adoption of votes and proceedings of Wednesday 19th October 2016, Senator Ahmed Lawan seconded.

*EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATION*

1. ‎Letter from President Muhammadu Buhari for the confirmation of 46 non-ambassador designate nominees drawn across the Federation.

*POINT OF ORDER*
Minority Leader, Senator Philip Aduda raises a point of order urging the Senate to prevail on the Federal Government to consider nominees from the FCT.

*PRESENTATION OF REPORTS*
Two reports were laid;

1. Report of the Committee on Finance on the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority Act 2011. By Sen. John Enoh (Cross River Central).

2. Report of the Committee on Finance on the 2016,Budget of the Federal Inland Revenue Service. By Senator John Enoh .

‎*CONSIDERATION OF EXECUTIVE REQUEST*
Senate considered confirmation of nominees for appointment as Justices of the Supreme Court‎. The nominees are: 1. Hon. Justice Sidi Dauda Baqe, JCA - Nassarawa state
2. Hon. Justice Paul Adamu Galinje, JCA - Taraba State.

‎It was referred to the Committee on Judiciary, human rights, and Legal Matters for further deliberations.

*MOTION*
1. Disturbing Development in the Nigerian Aviation Industry by Senator Dino Melaye. ‎He notes with sadness the emerging challenges bedevilling the Aviation industry as a result of the economic recession.

Senate resolved to: (i). Support the Government intervention with a view to saving the travelling masses from greater hardship.

(ii). Urge the Federal Government to extract from the airlines that will benefit from government special reviews, commitment not to increase fares arbitrary.

(iii). Urge the government to take a look and review the currency management systems to save the country from further investments & business failures.

‎*CONSIDERATION OF REPORTS*
Two Bills Passed 3rd Reading they are:

1. Report of the Joint Committee on Special Duties and Est. & Public Service on the North East Development Commission Bill By Murtala Nyako

2. Report of the Committees on Est. And Public Service and Appropriation on National Assembly ‎Budget and Research Office By Sen. Paulker

*ADJOURNMENT*
Senate Leader moves for other items to be moved to another legislative day and adjournment. Minority Leader seconded. Senate president puts the question and plenary is adjourned to Tuesday 25th October 2016.

For more details visit @NGRSenate on Twitter.

Al-Itqon Islamic Society Of Nigeria Bestows Toyin Saraki As Nigeria Women Ambassador

The Founder and President of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa was recognised and awarded the title of Ambassador of Nigerian Women by the Al Itqon Islamic Society of Nigeria last weekend in Ilorin Kwara State, at a ceremony marking Islamic New Year.

Mrs. Saraki who was represented by the Wellbeing Foundation Africa's Alaafia Kwara Initiative Coordinator, Mrs. Serifat Funsho Abdullahi, the wife of the former Minister of Sport expressed her gratitude in a statement.

“I'm humbled and honoured to be recognised and presented with an award as an Ambassador of Nigerian Women by the Al Itqon Islamic Society of Nigeria last weekend in Ilorin Kwara State.
I particularly appreciate this uncommon recognition bestowed on me by the Founder of Al-Itqon Islamic Society - Sheikh Jumah Adam Abdullahi Al-Ilory, son of the renowned and much respected Sheikh Adam Al-Ilory of blessed memory whom I held in highest esteem of his sorely missed wise counsel and acclaimed learning.”

“As the Founding Endowment Benefactor of the Al-Muwahideen Nursery-Primary School, Ori-Oke, Kwara State, I receive this titular award with heartfelt gratitude, and with it, I am further encouraged to try harder to empower more women and girls, and indeed our men and boys, to realise their rights to hold and practice their faith in peace; their rights to human dignity; their rights in the society; rights to academic, vocational, personal, social and health education and faith-based learning, towards safe motherhood, respectful relationships and positive productivity - in furtherance and progress of the Quranic command to the faithful, "Iqra! - Read!" of the Prophet Mohammed SAW.” She said.
-End-

Signed: Communications
The Wellbeing Foundation Africa
Email: communications@wellbeingfoundationnig.org
Web: www.wbfafrica.org

For further information please contact: Sagal Ali on sagal.ali@wbfafrica.org
or Veronica Abang
veronica.abang@wbfafrica.org

REMARKS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, (DR.) ABUBAKAR BUKOLA SARAKI, (CON) PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE AT THE NATIONAL ANTI-CORRUPTION SUMMIT AT THE NIGERIAN AIRFORCE CENTER TODAY THE 18 OF OCTOBER 2016, ABUJA

REMARKS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, (DR.) ABUBAKAR BUKOLA SARAKI, (CON) PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE AT THE NATIONAL ANTI-CORRUPTION SUMMIT AT THE NIGERIAN AIRFORCE CENTER TODAY THE 18 OF OCTOBER 2016, ABUJA

PROTOCOL
For more than 40 years now, the ‘anti-corruption’ fight has remained a major policy thrust of successive administrations. While this is true, it is also unfortunately true that not much traction has been achieved in preventing corruption in our public life. There is no doubt that corruption has significantly impaired our growth and development as a nation. More importantly, it is the poor that are most affected by corruption. This is why the war against corruption must now fight this current war sustainably through systemic solutions.

It is safe to say that we have failed before, for various reasons. Whatever, those reasons are, we cannot afford to fail again. This time, we must get it right. To lose this opportunity will have untold impact on our history and development. The current initiative must be insulated from being used as a political tool for political witch-hunting. It must not be allowed to be tainted in a manner that suggest selectivity.

In the past, we have seen military juntas cite rampant corruption as a rationale for assuming and holding on to power. We have also witnessed firsthand how past democratic governments have sought to eradicate corruption without much success. In order to succeed this time, we cannot afford to make the fight against corruption simply a mantra. We cannot also afford to make it a chase in the dark, it must be rooted in effective strategy, demonstrable plan with various layers rooted firmly in the tripods of law, liberty and neutrality.

As a nation, we still have a long way to go in the fight against corruption. Having tried to solve the problem through spontaneous institutional action, I hereby propose that it is time to adopt a more organised and structure oriented intervention strategy set up with concrete solutions for different strands of the corruption matrix.

We must ask ourselves, what have other nations who have been success against corruption around the world done to achieve the result they have? What do we need to do differently to achieve better and different result? What is clear is that whatever strategy that is adopted that does not include the following as priority is likely not to lead to a sustainable fight against corruption; these include, transparency in government processes and procurements, reduction in bureaucratic bottlenecks, education, technology adaptation, the adoption and enforcement of sensible rules and reduction of discretions, neutral application of sanctions, capacity building and oversight and monitoring.

All of these must become acculturated in our public life through a conscious and deliberate policy that is well audited and oversight oriented. What this means is that the challenge is not that of the Executive alone neither is the fight against corruption just a matter for EFCC, ICPC and the other enforcement agencies to contain. It is our collective responsibility.

Over the past year and half, since we took office at the 8th National Assembly, the Senate through its oversight powers have intervened at all times it has been called upon either through petitions or otherwise, to review the activities, management and administration of ministries, departments and agencies of the Federal Government. Through our legislative supervision we have uncovered monumental leakages in the operationalization of the Treasury Single Account regime, which has had the effect of saving the country over 20 billion Naira. In the same vein, the Senate has successfully nipped in the buds the issue of abuse of waivers that has led to a huge loss of revenue for government. We are currently investigating certain companies that have illegally repatriated upwards of 12 Billion US Dollars out of the Nigerian economy.

The fight against corruption must remain driven by a well articulated and delivered strategy. One that is robust, multifaceted and driven by leadership across all aspect of our political and social systems. It cannot be the fight of one man but rather the vigilance of everyone of us in our various sphere of influence. Let me share some of my personal experiences with you to shade light on some of the strategies that I have utilized in the past. In the 7th Assembly, I remember personally leading the charge to expose the corrupt fuel subsidy arrangement that was in place. Through a motion on the Senate floor, the Senate uncovered a mindboggling corruption going on in the federal government subsidy management scheme. This led to the indictment of several individuals and companies who were exploiting the weak institutional structures in the design of the scheme to the detriment of millions of Nigerians to enrich themselves. This motion alone saved the Nigerian government over 500 billion Naira, in the first year and in my opinion would have saved a whole lot more afterwards as a result.

These are just several examples of arms of governments successfully operating within their jurisdictions and mandates to further our collective cause as a nation and bring an end to the pervasive corruption that exists in our society.

Ladies and Gentlemen, one of the reasons government create institutions is to ensure that they act in such manner as best preserves the welfare and security of our people. I believe that institutional integrity and capacity holds the key to sustainable success against corruption. This is so crucial as ordinary Nigerians must be convinced that the problem of curbing corruption is being treated seriously by the government, and not in an opportunistic manner. This is especially so for our public accountability institutions. Therefore, if we must make significant inroad against corruption we must strive to protect our accountability institutions from the virus of political interference no matter how well meaning they may be. They must be enabled to operate in an atmosphere of political neutrality, efficiency and fairness as envisaged under the constitution. This in my view means that while these institutions work in collaborative form, there must be minimal intrusion in the operation decisions and working of our apex institutions — like the EFCC, the ICPC and the Police Force — that are tasked with ensuring accountability in our affairs.

Additionally, as history has shown, it is not enough to simply round people up forcefully throw them in jail under the guise of a successful anti-corruption fight, as a government and as a people, we must do more on the prevention and perception side of the anti-corruption war.

Perception is key in this fight. The anticorruption drive cannot be undertaken as a media glitz. This is why governments across all levels must work to strengthen the capacity of our agencies to make informed decisions and be inclined towards good knowledge of the law, rigor and transparency in all their doing. The more open and transparent the process, the less opportunity there will be for abuse of office.

In similar vein, there is a lot that can be achieved with greater civil engagement. Unless we achieve a wide citizen participation and belief in the fight against corruption, it will continue to be easy to erode successes recorded. This is why I urge sensitization of our community leadership and the wider local communities to join the fight through the denouncement of corrupt individuals and those who normalize dishonesty, bribery and exploitation; and those who clearly live far and above their commensurate earnings. This must be incentivized by government paying workers a living wage.

Ladies and gentlemen, the fight against corruption cannot be fought and won on the basis of prosecution of offenders alone, a greater effectiveness can be achieved by applying preventive measures across the public spectrum. Such preventive measures must include adequate education, ethical reforms, adaptation of technological support systems for better auditing and public procurement systems that help cover loopholes for corruption. For example,in order to reduce the risk of corruption and increase the effectiveness of public procurements, electronic tenders should be used more widely where possible

On our part, the National Assembly is ready to continue to use its legislative time and authority to reform key areas of our laws that will strengthen our institutions and give a fillip to the anti-corruption campaign. We are working to improve our oversight procedures by making the objectives and recommendations of these activities more open to public participation and feedback.

Additionally, with the Whistleblowers Protection Bill, which is one of our priority bills the National Assembly expect that when the bill is passed into law, it would help create a culture of greater freedom to expose corruption and guarantee the rights of citizens who speak out against corruption. With such laws in place, everyday Nigerians will be empowered to hold the government more accountable, which will in turn reduce the waste of public funds, and lead to improvements in the quality of public services.

As we play our part in the legislature, other arms of government must also be determined to do the same. The judiciary on its part must take steps to modernize itself by creating an environment that improves the speed and quality of justice. We are ready to play our role to make this happen. Already, the National Assembly has recently passed a bill increasing the number of judges of the Federal High Court and the Appeal courts to reduce the work load of judges in these courts. We know a lot more needs to happen. For example, it is no longer efficient to see our judges record proceedings of court in long-hand. The implication of this is that the will of justice is significantly impaired, people’s access to judicial rulings becomes reduced and the resolution of corruption cases negatively impacted.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is no longer acceptable that we are still operating a judicial system where there are conflicting judgments issuing from courts of coordinate jurisdiction over matters similar in fact and in law. In order to further strengthen the anticorruption process, we must join hands together to review these anomalies and strengthen the courts to act judiciously, impartially and fairly at all times.

Finally, I would not end my remarks without commenting on the need for every authority under our constitution to abide by decisions of courts made within jurisdiction. This is the only way to preserve law and order and maintain the rule of law as an essential ingredient for the survival of our nascent democracy. As emphasized earlier, anti-corruption does not start or end with the ICPC, or the EFCC, the Police or the DSS. This fight is all-encompassing. This fight can only be fought and won by all of us – the people and their government – working in sync and playing our own part in the process within the ambits of our defined powers.

If we are truly serious about building a Nigeria that is free from corruption and its myriad consequences, then we must fight to build a nation of institutions under law. We must work to ensure that there is order in all that we do. Unless there is order, we will not get the right results. Unless the anti-corruption war is underpinned on due process, the respect of the rule of law, and a clear acceptance of the separation of powers – with our Constitution as our guiding law, we will not achieve lasting and sustainable results.

Now, I urge us all irrespective of our party affiliation, religious leaning, to work together to achieve a corruption free nation that works for all Nigerians regardless of their social and political status.

God bless you all. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

(END)

Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki

President of the Senate & Chairman of the National Assembly

Remember In May when Saraki, president of the Senate said there is gov't within govt of President Buhari? Well, President Buhari's wife agrees with him.


Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari's wife has warned him that she may not back him at the next election unless he shakes up his government.
In a BBC interview, Aisha Buhari said the president "does not know" most of the top officials he has appointed.
She suggested the government had been hijacked, saying a "few people" were behind presidential appointments.
Mr Buhari was elected last year with a promise to tackle corruption and nepotism in government.
His wife's decision to go public with her concerns will shock many people, but it shows the level of discontent with the president's leadership, says the BBC's Naziru Mikailu in the capital, Abuja.
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The president famously remarked at his inauguration that he "belongs to nobody and belongs to everybody".
In the interview with Naziru Mikailu, Mrs Buhari said: "The president does not know 45 out of 50, for example, of the people he appointed and I don't know them either, despite being his wife of 27 years."
She said people who did not share the vision of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) were now appointed to top posts because of the influence a "few people" wield.
"Some people are sitting down in their homes folding their arms only for them to be called to come and head an agency or a ministerial position."
Asked to name those who had hijacked the government, she refused, saying: "You will know them if you watch television."
On whether the president was in charge, she said: "That is left for the people to decide."
Mrs Buhari said her husband had not told her whether he would contest the 2019 election.
"He is yet to tell me but I have decided as his wife, that if things continue like this up to 2019, I will not go out and campaign again and ask any woman to vote like I did before. I will never do it again."
Asked what she regarded as the government's major achievement, she said it was to improve security in the north-east where militant Islamist group Boko Haram has waged an insurgency since 2009.
"No-one is complaining about being attacked in their own homes. Thankfully everyone can walk around freely, go to places of worship, etc. Even kids in Maiduguri have returned to schools," Mrs Buhari said, referring to the city which was once the headquarters of the militant group.

Attack on Judges : Lai Mohammed Begs Newspaper Proprietors, Editors as CJN's Report Nails DSS Boss



The continued twists that culminated the gestapo attacks and eventual arrests of seven judges last weekend by operatives of the Department of State Security Services (DSS)has made the Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed go begging members of the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN) and Editors of major Newspapers in the country. TheBrief Exclusively gathered.

The Information Minister is soliciting the Publishers supportS to help “effect the change of narratives of the development trailing the arrest of the judges on the pages of newspapers.

TheBrief had exclusively reported how the Director-General of the Department of State Security Services ( DSS), Lawal Daura and the Minister of Transport, Rotimi Ameachi were indicted in the damning reports presented to the President, Muhammadu Buhari by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Mahmoud Mohammed in the wake of the jestapo attacks and eventual arrest of seven senior judges in the country.

In the meeting held in Lagos, the Minister begged the Newspaper Proprietors and their editors to back Federal Government in the quest to “wield the arrested judges out of the system”.

Responding to TheBrief’s enquiry about the outcome of the meeting, one of the editors confided that they were being begged to use their positions to help save the DSS Boss job.

According to him, “The Minister of Information met with editors and publishers of major Newspapers in Lagos to beg them to be on the side of Federal Government on this judges issue.

“The report submitted by the CJN has exposed many shady deals Daura involved in and he’s on the verge of losing his job. The Minister is soliciting favourable reports that will help the DSS Boss keep his job”.

Lai Mohammed was also said to have informed the publishers and editors of Federal government’s position to consider one of the two judges aside Justice Walter Onnoghen nominated for the CJN’s position.

Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC) had shortlisted three candidates for consideration to replace the outgoing Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mahmud Mohammed.

The names of the three persons forwarded to the National Judicial Council at the end of the meeting are: Justice Walter Onnoghen, Justice Tanko Muhammad, and Justice Suleiman Galadima.

“Lai Muhammed said they (Federal Government) are not in favour of having a Judge from south south as the next CJN as it won’t help the APC in 2019 General Elections”. The source said.

However, a publisher of one of the popular newspapers was said to have rebuffed the Minister’s remark on while the present government would want to have another Northerner as the next CJN saying “that’s nonsense, Nigeria belongs to all of us, north just the North.

Aside the present CJN, Justice Onnoghen is the most senior judicial officer in the country.

Another fear being nursed by the Federal Government according to competent sources is that, if Onnoghen is appointed as the next CJN, the National Judicial Council ( NJC) under his leadership may be too hard to control and he may come after the President.

Bukola Saraki: Tax Laws Will Be Examined to Improve Ease of Doing Business


President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Tuesday stated that the 8th Senate will work to streamline Nigeria’s multiple taxation system to improve the ease of doing business in the country.


Speaking at a dialogue at the 22nd Edition of the Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja, the Senate President, while answering questions from the audience, stated that Nigeria’s corporate taxation system needed to be reformed and revamped to get the country out of the economic recession.


“With 37 million small and medium scale enterprises providing about 95 percent of our jobs, as we promote ‘Made in Nigeria’, we must also use our legislative powers to amend the taxation laws,” he said, “To get out of this recession, we must provide a business-friendly environment.”


Speaking on the ‘Made in Nigeria’ theme of the summit, the Senate President lauded the organisers for keying into the Senate’s plan to empower home-grown businesses and ensure that Nigerian brands are strong enough to be patronized by our people and exported abroad.


“Earlier this year, when in the Senate we started the ‘Made in Nigeria’ campaign, we knew how important it was, but even we did not foresee how far it would go,” he said.  “To promote the patronage of our domestic businesses, the Senate has gone as far as amending the Public Procurement Act to compel government ministries, departments and agencies to key into this initiative.”


“It is our hope that Nigerian businesses can begin to benefit from the over N2 trillion in government expenditure in the 2016 budget,” he continued, “So that we can reduce the demand on foreign exchange while simultaneously creating employment, moving towards self sufficiency, increasing our GDP and boosting our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).


Saraki also stated that the anti-recession Bills that the Senate has scheduled for passage by December ending include: the Petroleum Industry Bill; the National Development Bank of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill; the Nigerian Ports and Habours Authority Act (Amendment) Bill; the National Road Fund (Establishment) Bill; the National Transport Commission Act of 2001; the Warehouse Receipts Act (Amendment) Bill; the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA); the Investment and Securities Act (ISA); the Customs and Excise Management Act; the Federal Competition Bill; and the National Road Authority Bill. 


Saraki also mentioned that since the beginning of the year,  the Senate has worked to fast-track the over 40 priority bills recommended by the National Assembly Business Environment Roundtable (NASSBER), an initiative in which the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) is a major partner.


The Senate President also said that one of the plans that the Senate has to ensure the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) in this administration, is to break the Bill into different sections for easier passage. The Senate President emphasised that with the passage of the PIB, Nigeria would generate more revenue from oil — putting it on track to come out of the economic recession.


“By focusing more on outcomes, rather than processes,” Saraki said, “The Nigerian Senate has been able to pass 20 Bills for Final Reading in two weeks.”

END

*Saraki: 11 Economic Recession Bills Will Pass by End of 2016*

President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, on Tuesday stated that the 8th Senate will work to meet a 2016 deadline for the passage of all the 11 economic-priority Bills that it has scheduled to tackle the economic recession.

Speaking at a dialogue at the 22nd Edition of the Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja, Saraki said since the beginning of the year, the Senate has worked to fast-track the over 40 priority bills recommended by the National Assembly Business Environment Roundtable (NASSBER), an initiative in which the Nigerian Economic Summit Group is a major partner.

The Senate President also said that one of the plans that the Senate has to ensure the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) in this administration, is to break the Bill into different sections for easier passage. The Senate President emphasised that with the passage of the PIB, Nigeria would generate more revenue from oil — putting it on track to come out of the economic recession.

“By focusing more out outcomes, rather than processes,” Saraki said, “The Nigerian Senate has been able to pass 20 Bills for Final Reading in two weeks.”

Speaking on the ‘Made in Nigeria’ theme of the summit, the Senate President lauded the organisers for keying into the Senate’s plan for generating more revenue from home-grown businesses.

“Earlier this year, when in the Senate we started the ‘Made in Nigeria’ campaign, we knew how important it was, but even we did not foresee how far it would go,” he said. “To promote the patronage of our domestic businesses, the Senate has gone as far as amending the procurement act to urge government ministries, departments and agencies to key into this initiative.”

“It is our hope that Nigerian businesses can begin to benefit from the over N2 trillion naira in government expenditure in the 2016 budget,” he continued, “So that we can reduce the demand on foreign exchange while simultaneously boosting our IGR.”

At a question-and-answer segment of the dialouge, Saraki also promised that the Senate would examine Nigeria’s multiple taxation laws of businesses, when it considers the 2017 Appropriation Bill — stating that it was time that Nigeria improved its revenue generating systems.

“What we need to do is to improve our corporate taxation system,” he said, “The Senate will be examining the different options for achieving this in the 2017 budget cycle so that we can strengthen the tax value chain . We will also review other areas like the customs duties.”

END

#NES22

SARAKI COMMENDS NESG FOR ADOPTING MADEINNIGERIA

TIMELINE OF EVENTS.

*8TH OF FEBRUARY 2016 SARAKI JUMPSTARTS CAMPAIGN FOR MADEINNIGERIA*

21st March 2016 Senate Organized National Assembly Business Environment Roundtable, to engage private sector, legislators and executive to promote ease of doing business in Nigeria.

*16TH OF JUNE 2016 SENATE PASSED AMENDMENT OF PUBLIC PROCUREMENT ACT*

*27th of September 2016 Senate Passed 20 point #SenatePlan to Executive to end recession*

*6th October 2016 Senate invites Mr President to a joint Session to brief National Assembly on steps to end recession.*


*VIDEO Of Senate President at the Made in Aba fair*
Bukola Saraki Addresses the 'Made in Aba' Trade F…:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LdQJbjuQD08

*BENEFITS OF #PROCUREMENT ACT*
Amended Public Procurement Act will ensure that all government agencies compulsorily patronize local manufacturers and service producers in all their procurement. They can only resort to foreign options when there is no local alternative. With this new law, a huge portion of the national budget will go into the pockets of our people and generate employment, improve our GDP and help us to be self-sufficient.

Other amendments in the Procurement Act reduces the period of award of contract, make the procurement process more transparent and increased mobilization fee to up to 25 percent, all in a bid to help our people just as it is being done in other countries.

Bukola Saraki Commends NESG

Bukola Saraki Commends NESG

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki has commended the Economic Summit Group (NESG) on the theme of this year’s summit which focus on promoting Made in Nigeria goods.

Saraki who will be a guest at the summit tomorrow noted that the choice of theme put the private sector group on the same page with the Senate which has since last year identified the need to promote local manufacturers and service providers as champions of the efforts to revive the national economy.

In a statement by his Special Adviser (Media and Publicity), Yusuph Olaniyonu, the Senate President stated that the law making institution in its 20-point recommendations on how to get the nation out of the present recession mentioned that “we must reduce our imports tremendously and increase our exports to earn more dollars and the best way to do that is for us to patronize locally made goods”.

“We have therefore amended the Public Procurement Act to ensure that all government agencies compulsorily patronize local manufacturers and service producers in all their procurement. They can only resort to foreign options when there is no local alternative. With this new law, a huge portion of the national budget will go into the pockets of our people and generate employment, improve our GDP and help us to be self-sufficient.

“Other amendments in the Procurement Act reduces the period of award of contract, make the procurement process more transparent and increased mobilization fee to up to 25 percent, all in a bid to help our people just as it is being done in other countries.

“I commend the NESG for their choice of theme and urge them to discuss how to improve on quality and packaging of locally produced goods, helping local producers get into foreign markets and sourcing start-up capitals for small and medium scale entrepreneurs at rock-bottom interest rates”.