₦airaland Forum

THE governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has ruled out the provision of subsidy for tertiary education in the state, saying the focus of his administration is to provide a conducive learning environment in tertiary institutions. Obaseki Gunmen kidnap another Professor in Adamawa Obaseki stated this when he inaugurated the Governing Council for the state-owned Ambrose Alli University, AAU, Ekpoma. He said it was worrisome that AAU was reduced to an institution driven by political agenda. SGF warns board chairman not to interfere with parastatal agencies administration He urged the new board to set up an investigative panel to review and understand what went wrong with the university. His words: “The state government gives N300 million monthly. They claim to have a student population of 30,000. “We have reduced our premier university to one driven by political agenda. That cannot be the fate of our ivory tower. “I hope this new board will help refocus the university to the dream of the late Ambrose Alli. “There should be transparency in the way the university is managed. There should be less rancour and more academic work. I have no doubt that the people we have selected have what it takes to turn the fortunes around. “I have confidence that this new board can turn around the university.” Related

Read more at: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/11/edo-govt-rules-out-subsidy-in-tertiary-institutions/

President Muhammadu Buhari, Wednesday, charged All Progressives Congress, APC, Aspirants to sacrifice for their country, not as he equally urged them to be faithful and hold fast on integrity as they vie for different offices in the forthcoming 2019 general election. President Buhari “I urge you to stay faithful if your objective is to serve the country. I came back to power in this “agbada’’ to convince Nigerians to make sacrifices that the country needs now for a better future”, he said. Disclosing this via his official tweeter handle, Mr. Femi Adesina the special Adviser to Mr. President on Media and Publicity, quoted Buhari as saying “We must maintain our faith in the country”, noting that “those who mismanaged the resources of the country are still very much around, with incredible wealth”. Read his full statement below: STAY FAITHFUL TO YOUR COUNTRY, HOLD FAST ON INTEGRITY, PRESIDENT BUHARI URGES APC ASPIRANTS President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Abuja urged political party aspirants who lost out in the primaries to remain faithful to the country and hold fast on integrity as there will be more opportunities to serve along the way. Rivers APC Crisis: Factions in conflict of interpretations as Supreme Court upholds High Court Order Speaking at a dinner with All Progressives Congress (APC) Aspirants Forum at the Presidential Villa, President Buhari said the primary motivation to contest elections should be to improve the country, and not for pecuniary reasons. “We must maintain our faith in the country,’’ he told the coalition of party members who contested the primaries. The President said he contested presidential elections three times before coming to power in 2015, adding that providence will always pave the way for the just, committed and patient politician who wants to truly serve the country. President Buhari told the aspirants that “those who mismanaged the resources of the country are still very much around, with incredible wealth’’, warning the aspirants to be vigilant and circumspect in making choices as the future will only be salvaged by those who love the country. “I spoke with the APC party chairman almost every other day, at least for an hour during the primaries. And sometimes, we met for two and half hours on ensuring internal democracy during the primaries,’’ the President said. Come clean on your secondary school certificate, PDP charges Buhari He pointed out that in spite of all efforts to appease everyone and give them a chance at the polls, some aspirants were still not treated fairly. “I urge you to stay faithful if your objective is to serve the country. I came back to power in this “agbada’’ to convince Nigerians to make sacrifices that the country needs now for a better future,’’ he added. In his remarks, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, said the meeting was organised to address grievances and fallout from the APC primary elections across the country. The minister said it would be unfortunate to allow the grievances overshadow the challenges before the country, assuring the aspirants that the government would assuage their yearnings to serve the country. 2019: Group mobilises support for Buhari/Osinbajo in S’West Malami said the aspirants should work collectively with the President in building the party and setting up a framework that would ensure healthier relationships and better internal democracy. The leader of the APC Aspirants Forum, Hon. Yusuf Banki, said the network of 7,000 members will work to ensure President Buhari’s victory at the polls in 2019.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/10/i-came-back-to-power-with-agbada-to-convince-nigerians-to-make-sacrifices-buhari/

PRESIDENT Mohammadu Buhar, Wednesday pleaded with the political actors to exhibit decorum in their conduct and utterances in order not to fan the embers of disunity as the November 18 official date to commence campaigns for the 2019 general election draws near. President Buhari President Buhari who made the appeal while launching the 2019 armed forces remembrance day emblem and appeal fund with a donation of N10 million to support Nigerian veterans and fallen heroes at the Council Chamber, Presidential Villa, Abuja, before the commencement of the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, said in every contest, there must be a winner. According to him, “We would have no country to lead if our acts of deliberate incitement lead to the disintegration of our dear nation,’’ the President said in his address at the Council Chambers. ‘‘Let us put Nigeria first and realise that in every contest there must be one winner.” He said that the celebration was a painful reminder of the perils of war and the need for the nation to avoid a recurrence. He said, ‘‘The celebration forcefully reminds us of the resolve of our citizens to remain in one united country, Nigeria. ‘‘It also points out the fact that we had been through a bitter and unfortunate war that led to the loss of millions of our compatriots and the need to do all within our powers to avoid a reoccurrence of war.” President Buhari appreciated the gallantry and sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the campaign against insurgency and other internal security operations. Noting that the efforts of the armed forces have led to the return of normalcy in affected parts of the nation, the President regretted the recent murder of two young and promising aid workers; Saifura Khorsa and Hauwa Liman by Boko Haram terrorists. ‘‘It is painful that this happened despite all the efforts of government to effect release of the two victims. ‘‘We condemn the callous and cowardly act in its entirety and call on all citizens and friends to forge a united front against this common enemy of our destiny. ‘‘Once more, I extend the heartfelt condolences of the Government and people of Nigeria to the families and friends of these martyrs,’’ the President said. The Nigerian leader pledged that the resettlement and rehabilitation of citizens affected by the war on terror will continue, commending Dangote Foundation for its partnership with Government in the rebuilding process in Borno State. The President, therefore, called on other corporate organisations to borrow a leaf from this noble initiative as Government alone cannot satisfy all the needs, given her limited resources. President Buhari also expressed delight that businesses operating in Nigeria are beginning to give special consideration to members of the Armed Forces and veterans. ‘‘Specifically, some airlines operating in Nigeria offer discounts to members of the Armed Forces. This gesture is commendable and in line with my call for recognition, consideration and appreciation of our Armed Forces. ‘‘I urge more business ventures to chip in by assisting the Security Forces in whatever way they can,’’ he said. The President also thanked charity organisations for taking up the task of catering for the welfare of veterans and members of the armed forces, adding that the nation owe a debt of gratitude to men and women of the armed forces who have the responsibility of securing the Nation, and ensuring a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. On the Bill to amend the Nigerian Legion Act to a proposed “Veterans Federation of Nigeria” Act, the President urged the 8th National Assembly to give the proposed legislation, which seeks to ensure proper welfare and health condition of military veterans, quick attention. ‘‘As Grand Patron of the Nigerian Legion (Veterans), I wish to pledge my continued support and that of the Federal Government to the organisation. ‘‘My appreciation goes to State Governors who are patrons in their respective states for the support they are giving to the Legion. I enjoin them not to relent but improve on this,’’ he said. President Buhari called on all Nigerians and others resident in Nigeria to procure and wear the emblems with pride to identify with those who laid down their lives for peace and security of our fatherland. The President was accompanied to the event by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, members of the Federal Executive Council, Chief of Defence Staff, General Abayomi Olonisakin, service chiefs and the Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, senior officers and veterans. The Minister of Defence, Mansur Dan-Ali in his address said, “It is the desire of government that this act of remembrance be implanted in the hearts of all Nigerians so that we can on daily basis act in ways that show appreciation. “We also owe it a duty to give consideration to the plight of the widows and orphans of our fallen heroes.”

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/10/2019-buhari-to-politicians-regulate-your-utterances/

Some Nigerians don't really know what they want, they voted for change and they have refused to work with the change movement, A country like Nigeria cannot be changed overnight. For any Country to improve, the citizens must work with the Government to achieve its goals and objectives

Omokri will use any opportunity to make headlines, he is becoming a joke to Nigerians, its glaring that he is always doing this because of the hatred he has for the APC government.

The Buhari led Government has done a lot in making sure that the country is safe for all no doubt, its unfortunate that the hatred for Buhari has made them not see this, different military operations were introduced to eradicate insurgency and militant movement, major arrest were made, successful military operations were carried out, i think the government deserve some accolades.

Buhari will never be rejected by the north, these people should understand that pdp depends on rigging in ss and your se to win,no point arguing further.several people here have described how pdp rigs there, the hatred for buhari wont allow haters reason well.i hope i see we online when buhari wins.

It is no longer news that some selfish officials have been decamping to other parties to fight against change, it is now clear that this group of selfish individuals does not have the interest of the country at heart.

I agree with the Federal Government on this one, the religious leaders are role models, they have a part to play in the development of this country, they should not be allowed to be used by the opposition just for the love of money, the Government has really tried in the development of this country.

This people thinks that Nigeria is a joke, bringing up baseless allegation just to drag the APC government to the mud, this is the era of change, the patriotic Nigerians will never buy into such allegation, another failed attempt.

Atiku has never been sincere in anything, he wants to come into power not because he has the interest of the people at heart but because he wants immunity to travel for business.

ABUJA— United Nations and Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, said they have received assurances from President Muhammadu Buhari as well as the nation’s security agencies of a free, fair and credible general election next year. President Buhari This was disclosed by a delegation from the Joint Mission of Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, and United Nations, UN, led by United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel, Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, when they paid a courtesy visit on Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in Abuja, yesterday. How I wish I fixed infrastructure when we had money – Buhari The UN Representative intimated the commission on efforts taken by the joint mission to solicit the support of other stakeholders towards achieving peaceful and credible elections in Nigeria in 2019. He said they had commenced interactions with candidates on ensuring conducive environment for the conduct of elections. He said: “Yesterday, we had an audience with President Muhammadu Buhari and he assured us of his determination as chairman of ECOWAS and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to do everything within his powers to ensure that credible, transparent, free and fair elections are conducted in 2019.”

Read more at: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/10/buhari-assured-us-of-free-fair-2019-polls-un-ecowas/

Nigeria has left that era in which democratic norms are brazenly subverted, with votes awarded to those favoured by the authorities, and the shortchanged told to go to court if they were not happy.

President Muhammadu Buhari stated this Monday while receiving in State House, Abuja, members of the Joint United Nations, African Union and ECOWAS Good Offices Mission on Elections.

“I am highly qualified to talk on this, having ended in Supreme Court three times, after participating in elections with disputed results. Where will a man looking for where his next meal would come from, have money to hire lawyers, particularly senior advocates?” the President said.

He assured that the 2019 polls would be free and fair, submitting: “The President has only one vote, governors have a vote each, just like anybody else. Let the people vote for whoever they choose, without their will being tampered with.”

Thanking the joint team for being in touch with our institutions, particularly the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the President said multi-party democracy gives lots of choice to the people, adding that Nigeria has a vibrant young population, “who trust us to handle their affairs and resources well. A lot depends on leadership.”

President Buhari said the 2015 elections were run with three campaign objectives; securing the country, reviving the economy, fighting corruption, “and the opposition has not succeeded in faulting us. We are doing our best with the resources available to us.”

President of ECOWAS Commission, Jean-Claude Brou, said the team came on a solidarity visit to Nigeria before the forthcoming elections, as it did with other countries like Senegal, Mali, Gambia, and others which recently held polls.

He appreciated the strong role Nigeria plays in the sub-region, while also thanking President Buhari for his strides in the fight against corruption and terrorism.

Mohammed Ibn Chambas, speaking on behalf of the UN, appreciated what he called “the strong leadership of President Buhari in Nigeria, West Africa, and Africa.”

“You’ve always played politics according to the rules. We will do all that we can to strengthen the institutions. We’re convinced that INEC is ready to provide free and fair elections,” Mr Chambas said.

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/293150-no-more-award-of-fraudulent-votes-in-nigerian-elections-buhari.html

No fewer than 200 delegates from over 70 countries in Africa, Middle East and South East Asia are gathering in New Delhi for the 14th edition of higher education summit towards improving the university for the future. Education Minister Adamu Adamu Dr Saravana Kumar, Joint Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Human Resource Development, India said on Tuesday that the gathering was aimed at driving the government policy to ensure effective educational delivery and services. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the summit was organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) in collaboration with the Government of India to focus on developing an ecosystem for strategic partnerships in the education sector between India and other countries. Kumar said with the number of delegates at the summit, it would provide a forum for international educational providers and as well encourage collaborations among the countries to strengthen the education sector. He said that building on the synergy would help countries involved in the summit to awake to the realisation that education was the bedrock of any society that want to develop. Earlier, Dr Vidya Yeravdekar, Pro Chancellor, Symbiosis International University, said the government of India had launched some studies in India programme initiatives aimed at attracting foreign students to the universities. Yeravdekar noted that this initiative had produced about 48,000 foreign students currently studying in India with Nigerian students being the larger number. Ganduje Video: Kano Police warns students group against protest She added that if the government was able to sustain and build on the collaborations, the number of foreign students would increase to 200,000 by 2023. ” India has launched a study in India programme initiatives, which is a governmental initiative, to attract foreign students. “In other words, the universities are given 50 per cent scholarships as the number is projected at 200,000 by 2023. ” India has a large number of Nigerian students studying in various universities in India and we hope to increase this number,” she said. The pro chancellor added that the current number of 48,000 foreign students studying in India had overrun China and Malaysia who were leading in number before. Meanwhile, Prof. Idris Funtua, Vice-Chancellor, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua University, Katsina, said efforts must be made to address challenges in the educational system of Nigeria. Funtua, who was worried at the spate Nigerians sought for educational knowledge in other countries, said Nigeria must begin to invest in the education system to make it more conducive for learning. Police warn motorists against illegal use of tinted glasses He added that the educational system of Nigeria should be developed in such a way that foreign students would also seek knowledge and advancement in Nigeria’s educational system. NAN reports that the 13th edition of the summit had participation from 110 Indian higher education sector and exhibitors with 247 hosted foreign delegates from 63 countries. NAN Related

Read more at: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/10/nigeria-69-countries-in-india-for-education-summit/

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed confidence in the ability of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC to conduct a free and fair election contrary to the assertion of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. President Buhari during the Grand Finale of APC Gubernatorial Campaign Rally in Osun State on 18th Sep 2018 The Party’s acting National Chairman, Otunba Niyi Adebayo made the disclosure when he received a 2019 election exploratory delegation of the European Union to Nigeria on Monday at the Party’s National Secretariat in Abuja. The same EU team in previous meetings with the PDP had been told that the APC was bearing down on the party and the opposition in the country. The EU team met with the PDP national chairman, Prince Uche Secondus and Vice-Presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi. Otunba Adebayo who is the APC’s Deputy National Chairman (South) thanked the European Union for their longstanding interest and developmental support for the country’s electioneering process. Responding to the EU delegation’s enquiries on APC’s assessment of the country’s election management body and the justice system ahead of the elections, Otunba Adebayo expressed confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ability to conduct free, fair and credible elections and the judiciary to resolve disputes that may arise for the election process. Nicolay Paus, the European Delegation Exploratory Team Leader who spoke on behalf of the delegation said the team has already met with other election stakeholders in the country to recommend whether the EU would deploy election observers to monitor the 2019 general elections. Osun re-run: Tension as soldiers, police patrol Osogbo, Ede “We have met with a range of electoral stakeholders – INEC, some political parties, ministries of foreign affairs and information, civil society and some of the international organisations working on electoral support. The purpose is really to collect as much information as possible to recommend whether to deploy an observer mission for the 2019 elections. This decision will be taken in Brussels. As you may remember in 2015, there was a mission here which arrived around six weeks before the elections and stayed some weeks after the elections. We also had a number of long-term observers who followed the electoral process as well.” Nicolay Paus stated. Other members of the delegation were the Head of Politics, EU Delegation in Nigeria, Olivier Huot; Policy Officer, Jose-Antonio Torres-Lacasa; Election analyst, Hannah Roberts and Political Adviser, Osaro Odemwingie. Ohakim berates APGA leadership, says it is biased, unfair Related 2019: APC expresses confidence in INEC`s ability to conduct free, fair elections October 29, 2018

Read more at: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/10/apc-meets-eu-delegation-expresses-confidence-in-inec/

PRESIDENT Mohammadu Buhari will today meet with religious and traditional leaders as well as other stakeholders in Kaduna in a bid to find lasting peace in the state. The State has witnessed renewed crisis as a result of the gruesome murder of the paramount ruler of the Adara, the Agom Adara, Dr Maiwada Galadima, by kidnappers. Shiites in violent clash with Police in Kaduna as Police arrest 9 members of the Islamic group The arrival of the President is currently being awaited at the popular Murtala Square, venue of the meeting located in the city center. Already, religious and traditional leaders have arrived the venue even as security has been heavily beefed up with both plain and uniform operatives. The traditional ruler was said to had been shot “immediately the ransom was delivered to the kidnappers” at a point that they chose. It was learnt that “Even the courier of the ransom money could not understand why the kidnappers shot the paramount ruler who was already on the threshold of freedom. Residents said the Chief was killed, and his corpse moved to Katari, about 85 kilometres between Abuja and Kaduna, before the kidnappers contacted the family, informing them where to pick the corpse. It was not clear what the exact ransom paid was, but it was gathered that the money was “substantial.” The development later triggered fresh violence despite security deployments and curfew declared in the state.

Read more at: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/10/kaduna-crisis-buhari-meets-religious-leaders-today/

With the current development in the country, it is glaring that the APC has done a lot to enable them come out victorious come 2019. Buhari's record of impunity, disregard for court orders, insecurity, looting, recession, lies, extreme poverty and hardship will definitely intimidate any rational thinking members of the opposition ...

This is a plus to the APC. The Governor is a selfish man, he is only using their suffering to draw pity on himself, it is good that their are still some people in the state that still wants the best for their state. Ortom has squandered his goodwill. His refusal to pay workers 4 months from the Paris club refund is the worst decision of his administration.

President has performed exceptionally well no doubt, he was able to bring the fight against corruption to reality, added more value to the power sector, the Buhari led Government was able to invest in people directly, successful military operations across the country and the completion of abandoned projects by the previous government to mention a few. This government truly deserve some accolades.

This is commendable, i appreciate the fact that the presidency is working tirelessly in making sure that Nigeria becomes a better place for us all. For the first time, a government is embarking on the completion of roads abandoned by the previous government. Its good that Fashola is doing what he promised.

The certificate saga is the least of Nigeria's problem now, Those complaining are only motivated by ignorance, hatred, money and stupidity, politicizing an issue like this cannot drag the working president to the mud. why not focused on the good things the Buhari led administration has done and how to improve on it. The president has sound mind and have been ruling with justice, Equity and fairness, and visibly fights corruption, the patriotic Nigerians will still call for him to rule more.

The national programme for Infrastructure Companies (InfraCos) to increase broadband penetration in the country has been planned to kick off later this year.

Current broadband penetration in Nigeria is 22 per cent, up from four per cent in 2012.

To achieve increased broadband penetration, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has developed a Licensing Framework and instituted a subsidy scheme to enable Infrastructure Companies (InfraCos) to roll out fibre in all the zones of the country.

Specifically, the project, one of the key high-level interventions of the Nigeria Industrial Policy and Competiveness Advisory Council, is to increase broadband penetration across all geopolitical zones of the country, such that at the end of the four-year intervention, all the 774 Local Government Areas will be provided with fibre connectivity.

That implies the deployment of at least one fibre Point of Access (PoA), with the capacity of 10 Gbps, in each LGA across the country.

According to the Executive Secretary of the Council, Edirin Akemu, the difficulty of using a single Infraco to achieve the desired broadband penetration because of the sheer size of the country, topographic challenges and socio-economic factors necessitated the use of the more companies.

“To address those difficulties and fast track broadband penetration, the National Communications Commission, which is executing the project, has developed a structure to licence six InfraCos for the geopolitical zones and an additional one for Lagos because of its peculiarities,” she explained.

The licenced Infracos are Infraco Nigeria Limited (for Lagos zone); Brinks Integrated Solution Limited (North-East); Fleet Networks Nigeria Limited (North-West) and Zinox Technologies Limited (South-East).

Others are Raeanna Technologies Limited (South-South) and O’odua Infraco Resource Limited. Efforts are underway to licence an Infraco for the North-Central zone, following the withdrawal of the licenced Infraco.

In the presentation of the NCC at the last Council meeting, it has engaged the National Economic Council and the Nigerian Governors Forum on its broadband initiatives and has also reviewed the submission of the six licensed InfraCos relating to the Capital cost (Capex) for the project, subsidy requirement, and network design.



Following the review, they were requested to submit revised financials, network design and rollout plan based on, one PoA per LGA only for subsequent review.

At the end of the exercise, negotiation of percentage subsidy is to be considered for the respective zones.

According to Okechukwu Enelamah, Vice Chairman of the Council, who is also the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, “Based on the speed of re-submission received from the respective InfraCos and the conclusion of the subsidy agreement, it is expected that the project will kick-off before the end of 2018.”

He said the commission also presented challenges like difficulty of securing the Right of Way and multiple taxation in the states, which the National Council, headed by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, is helping to address.

In attendance at the meeting were Aliko Dangote; a Vice Chairman of the Council, Kola Jumodu; the new president of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Mansur Ahmed; Latif Busari, MD of the National Sugar Development Council; Lazarus Agbanzo, CEO of GE Nigeria; Louis Edozien, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Power; Abdulsamad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Group; Kamarudeen Yusuf, Chairman KAM Industries; and representatives of TCN and the Nigerian Communications Commission; among others.

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/292992-national-programme-for-infrastructure-companies-to-kick-off-year-end.html

The Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, on Saturday, October 27, said Nigeria’s debt was $73 billion, a $10 billion increase from $63 billion the present administration inherited in 2015.

He made the disclosure in Ibadan on Saturday during the 9th Public Lecture of Sigma Club at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.

THE CLAIM
“In 2010 our debt was $35 billion, $41 billion in 2011, $48 billion in 2012, $64 billion in 2013, $67.7 billion in 2014, $63.8 billion in 2015, $57.8 billion in 2016, $70 billion in 2017 and $73 billion in 2018.

“The nation’s debt as at today was $73 billion, an increment of $10 billion from the $63 billion inherited in 2015,”

VERIFICATION OF CLAIM
To verify the claim, PREMIUM TIMES and Dubawa, used data from the Debt Management Office (DMO), the agency officially responsible for managing Nigeria’s debt.

According to the DMO, as at June 2015, the external debt of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) and the 36 states was $10.316 billion; domestic debt (FGN only) was $42.633 billion while domestic debt of states was $10.856 billion. These give a total public debt of $63.806 billion as at June 2015.

Also, according to the same document from Debt Management Office, the total public debt as at June 2018 stood at $73.207 billion with breakdown as follows: federal government and the 36 states owed $22.083 billion, domestic debt (FGN Only) was $39.749 billion and total domestic debt of states and the FCT stood at $11.374 billion.

Further analysis of Nigeria’s debt also revealed that in 2012, Nigeria’s debt was $48.496 billion; in 2013, it was $64.509 billion; in 2014, it was $67.726 billion; in 2016, it stood at $57.391 billion; and as at December 31, 2017, the total debt was $70.999 Billion

These official figures tally with those quoted by the vice president who said “In 2010 our debt was $35 billion, $41 billion in 2011, $48 billion in 2012, $64 billion in 2013, $67.7 billion in 2014, $63.8 billion in 2015, $57.8 billion in 2016, $70 billion in 2017 and $73 billion in 2018.”

There was no available record on the website of the Debt Management Office for 2010 and 2011; so it is difficult to verify Mr Osinbajo’s debt figures for those two years.



However, going by available data on public debt from 2012 till date, the total debt of the country in 2015 was $63.806 billion while the current debt figure as at June 2018 stood at $73.207 billion. Both are same as the figures quoted by the vice president on Saturday.

Therefore, the claim by the vice president that the Buhari administration has increased the nation’s debt by $10 billion from $63 billion it inherited in 2015 is TRUE.

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/293012-fact-check-how-accurate-is-osinbajos-claim-on-nigerias-debt-profile.html

Reeno is becoming an actor, he is always using every opportunity to make headlines, he is just an unemployed daft gossip whose olufofo is worse than market women own, no free money, go and get a job and make something of your crumbling life

This is commendable, this is what is expected from a leader, it is also good to know that the exercise has commenced with the screening of persons with cases of cataract.

The chairperson of African Union, Moussa Faki, has commended President Muhammadu Buhari’s efforts in championing anti-corruption crusade in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

Mr Faki stated this while speaking with reporters shortly after a closed door meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, on Thursday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the AU Chairperson is on a two-day official visit to Nigeria slated for between October 25 and 26.

Mr Faki said African leaders decided to appoint Mr Buhari as the champion of their crusade against corruption because of his administration’s commitment to the fight against corruption.

“They know that he is very committed and dedicated not only in Nigeria but in the whole of Africa and his style of leadership I am happy to work with him,” he said.

The chairperson also said one of the reasons for his visit was to discuss with Mr Buhari the issue of African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCTA) which is yet to be signed by Nigeria.

Nigeria declined to sign the agreement in July as it was believed that it would expose industries and small businesses to external pressures and competitions, which could lead to closures and job losses.

“One the reasons for the visit is to discuss with the president on the African free trade that is yet to be signed by Nigeria.

“We have to realise that Nigeria is one of the important countries in Africa and Nigeria is committed to the development of the continent,’’ he said.

He said Nigeria needed to be involved in pushing the AfCTA agenda for the benefit of the whole continent.



Mr Onyeama in his remarks said the visit of the chairperson was significant because Africa is central in Nigerian foreign policy adding that AU is extremely important to the country.

He said the chairperson had good ideas of achieving various goals of the AU and Nigeria would support him to achieve them.

“There is a road map and he has a vision for Africa and its development. There is the 2063 agenda which is a road map that we hope will lead to peace and security on the continent,” he said.

According to him, there is also the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda, and that of economic development of the continent.

“It is now a question of implementing these goals to achieve them and the desire of Africa. There is a reform process that the AU is involved in to meet its challenges and that is a very important process for all the members to be engaged in.

“We are supporting him, he has very clear vision, and clear idea of how to achieve these goals and Nigeria is a very integral part of that process,” he said.(NAN)

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/292563-au-chairperson-commends-buharis-anti-corruption-effort.html

Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, says that over $183 million has been invested so far in the National School Feeding Programme in Nigeria . Osinbajo made the disclosure in Tunis, Tunisia, in a keynote address at the closing ceremony of the 20th Annual Global Child Nutrition Forum held at Four Seasons Hotel in Tunis. ADVERTISING ADVERTISING School feeding He said that over nine million primary pupils are benefitting in 26 states already. The vice president said that the programme has been, by all accounts, a remarkable success. He said that by the end of 2018, with more states in the country joining the National Homegrown School Feeding Programme, it was set to become the largest school-feeding programme in Africa. Osinbajo told the 353 delegates and experts from nine countries that the programme is strategic to human capital development. The delegates include experts in the nutrition industry, United Nations officials from World Food Programme, Global Child Nutrition Fund, the World Bank and stakeholders that “Nigeria took the decision to embark on a school feeding programme as an important part of our human capital development agenda. “By tackling the broader issues of eradication of poverty, food and nutrition security, and increasing school enrolment. It is becoming clearer that the 21st century will be defined by knowledge and skills. “The nations that are best able to present the most knowledgeable and most skilful citizens will prevail in commerce, in science and technology and of course, will enjoy the greatest prosperity and the longevity to enjoy the prosperity. “ Nations that do not invest enough to produce the required level of talent and skills will be left behind; a farther distance than ever before in the history of mankind. “By 2035, Africa will have 1.2billion people. Over 50 per cent of that number will be young persons under the age of 25. Today, 60 per cent of the unemployed in Africa are young people.” Osinbajo said at a cost of 0.19 dollars per child per day, a balanced meal was provided for every one of the children as 9,300,892 million pupils in 49,837 public primary schools in 26 states across Nigeria benefitted daily. According to him, at current numbers, the programme costs $1,767,169.48 per day and over 183million dollars has been invested so far in the programme. “The programme employs 95,422 cooks, and over 100,000 smallholder farmers linked to the programme, supplying locally sourced ingredients. “This translates to 594 cattle, 138,000 chickens, 6.8 million eggs, 83 metric tons of fish that are procured, prepared, and distributed each week. As you can imagine, the quantity of starch and vegetables required for this program on a weekly basis is equally impressive”. He told the audience that the success of the programme in a short time was due to factors such as unequivocal political will, transparency and accountability. Osinbajo also listed good value for all participants in the value chain, multi-sectoral coordination and strategic partnership with international donors such as Melinda and Bill Gates Foundation and Partnership For Child Development, Imperial College. He earlier commended the Global Child Nutrition Forum and World Food Programme, for providing such an excellent opportunity for the global school feeding community to come together to share ideas, learn from and inspire one another. Present at the occasion were Hatem Ben Salem, Minister of Education, Republic of Tunisia; Arlene Mitchell, Executive Director, Global Child Nutrition Fund; Don Burdy, Specialist at World Food Programme/World Bank. Also in attendance were Daniel Balaban, Director of Centre of Excellence Against Hunger in Brazil and other regional representatives of WEF and GCNF, international donors as well as other participants (NAN).

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/10/over-183m-invested-so-far-in-school-feeding-programme-osinbajo/

The Federal Government says it will not restrain the activities of organised labour in the country but will continue to engage them in dialogue. Ngige Dr Chris Ngige, the Minister of Labour and Employment, spoke in Abuja, when a delegation of the organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU), paid him a courtesy visit. Ngige, via a statement signed by Mr Samuel Olowookere, Director of Press in the ministry, said government “does not believe in curbing the activities of the organised labour union.’’ According to him, Section 40 of the constitution allows for freedom of association. “It is the same law that gave birth to the formation of political parties that also empowered the formation of labour unions, hence President Muhammadu Buhari will never tamper with the activities of the unions. “The Federal Government is committed to working in synergy with the two active labour centres in Nigeria, who are also dynamic members of OATUU with many affiliate unions,’’ he said. The minister however called on OATUU to work out modalities on how to facilitate the review of its relationship with the Federal Government. He said this was in terms of funding in view of the ongoing review of the list of international organisations and associations the country belong to. “The Federal Government recently decided to review the list of international organisations and associations which the country will belong to. “This is because of the fact that the payments of subvention and statutory contributions to such organisations have started taking toll on the federal treasury.’’ Mr Valentine Udeh, leader of the delegation, and Deputy Secretary General of OATUU, said the delegation came to discuss the review of subvention to OATUU by the Federal Government. He expressed the appreciation of the union to the support it received from the Federal Government. He also assured of the commitment of the Pan African organisation to continue to cater for the well-being of the continent’s workforce.(NAN) Related

Read more at: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/10/fg-will-not-restrain-activities-of-organised-labour-ngige/

The Ministry of Budget and National Planning, says the National Social Registry (NSR) is part of Federal Government’s effort to capture the Nigerian poor and vulnerable in the country. Mr Olajide Odewale, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary said this during an engagement meeting with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and Donor partners on NSR in Abuja. Odewale, represented by Mr Kayode Obasa, the Director, Social Development of the ministry said the register would help improve services in the country. “A lot of misinformation and invalidated data are out there in the public domain. “And attempt to use the data to implement the interventions have led sometimes to undesirable outcomes, hence the need to take the right steps. “First, by warehousing details of the poor and vulnerable Nigerians irrespective of the location and socio-economic standings. “I therefore, thank President Muhammadu Buhari for his visionary position and determination to ensure that every Nigerian is counted and given basic social service.’’ Odewale expressed optimism that the forum would address grey areas of the current NSR and shed more light on how MDAs could leverage on the register. He said it would also provide the developers of the NSR feedback from seasoned technocrats on measures to better implement the register. Odewale expressed the ministry’s commitment to ensuring that the NSR was sustained and utilised by all stakeholders. He then commended the representatives of the various MDAs and donor partners for their efforts and contribution to the success of the NSR. The World Bank Representative, Prof Foluso Okunmodewa, in his remarks expressed optimism that the NSR would resolve the errors of exclusions in the country. “What is important for us at the bank is to make sure that we protect the quality and credibility of this register. “I enjoin all the partners to ensure the register in terms of credibility is protected,’’ he said. Mrs Hajara Sami, the Acting National Coordinator, Youth Employment and Social Support Operation (YESSO), said the forum was timely and pledged commitment to support the NSR drive. Mr Hamidou Poufon, the Chief of Social Policy, United Nations International Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF), also pledged the fund’s commitment to support the register.

Read more at: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2018/10/fg-set-to-register-nigerian-poor/

This is the change we voted for, i hope other states learn from this, it is also good that that his administration has approved the sum of N200 million as car and housing loans for teachers in government schools across the state.