₦airaland Forum

Bizaustine:
This is even about Trust. The people don't trust where this is coming from bcus the person has shown without doubt to be a maximum clueless disaster. He is making a very big mess. He has become the biggest threat to the survival of businesses in Nigeria.

The Realities on ground makes it very hard for people to Trust this most nepotistic clueless worst President Nigeria has ever seen.

Reforms only work when people who have intentions to work for the people take charge.
How can someone who does not believe in Nigeria make Nigeria better.

Too many failed promises.

President Bola Tinubu is expected to leave France on Monday for Cape Town, South Africa, to co-chair the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission, BNC, alongside President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Recall that President Tinubu left Abuja on Wednesday last week on a three day official visit to France on the invitation of the French President Emmanuel Macron.

A statement issued on Sunday by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, explained that the presidential BNC, scheduled for Tuesday, December 3, will be preceded by a ministerial meeting on December 2, 2024, at the South African Parliament Building in Cape Town.

It further stated that President Tinubu and President Ramaphosa will engage in substantive talks on a wide range of issues of mutual interest, including bilateral, regional and international matters.

According to the statement, “Building on the commitments from their June 20, 2024, meeting in Johannesburg shortly after President Ramaphosa’s inauguration for a second term in office, the two leaders will review the progress achieved since the 10th session of the BNC held in Abuja from November 29 to December 1, 2021.

“The 11th session of the BNC will feature deliberations across eight working groups, each focusing on a specific area of mutual interest. These include political consultations, consular and migration, banking and finance, defence and security, manufacturing, social sector, mines and energy, and trade and investments.

“At the high-level meeting, officials of both countries will sign several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements.”

It further stated that the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission was established in 1999 to further strengthen the ties of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. The first session at the Heads of State level was held in October 2019 in Pretoria.

“The BNC provides a platform for sustaining high-level dialogue and promoting cooperation in critical areas such as diplomacy, economy, trade, security and other areas of mutual interest.
“This year’s meeting is particularly significant as it coincides with the 25th anniversary of the Commission, a testament to the enduring friendship and cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa,” it stated.

Massiveglory:
Just mention one thing that your tinubu has succeded in since he grabbed his way in.

Massiveglory:
Just lije they fooled you with student loan, portharcourt refinery , etc.

I am a 100% certain you know nothing about the bill.
You are only making noise because it from your tribal man tinubu.
Just mention one thing that your tinubu has succeded in since he grabbed his way in.
It has being from failure to failure, propaganda to propaganda, lies to lies.

We told u guys long ago that nothing can work on a desecrated foundation.

The Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese has said President Bola Tinubu’s proposed tax reform bills will take away the burden on poor Nigerians and small companies when signed into law.

The four executive bills have since introduction pitched the 36 state governors against the Federal Government, with the former calling for the withdrawal of the bills to create room for more consultation.

Though some governors are said to be shifting their position on the matter, Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum, has called on his northern colleagues to reject the bills, insisting that if implemented, they would damage the region’s economy.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Saturday, Agbese called on Nigerians to rally around Tinubu’s tax bills, adding that as lawmakers, the interest of the nation surpassed individual or sectional consideration.

“We hope to debate these bills on Tuesday and we expect robust deliberation that will ultimately lead to the passage of the bills. Most of our colleagues have read the bills and as a result, they are now shifting grounds. Those initially opposed to the bills are now advocating for their speedy consideration and passage.

“When we converge next week, more supporters will have been won over but I want to add that this is not only about lawmakers. These bills are about Nigerians, from the top company executive to the farmer in a rural village. I say this because public policy affects everyone. If passed into law, these bills will rejig the economy and ensure rapid development of critical infrastructure,” he added.

He commended Tinubu for championing a new direction of tax administration in the country, saying, “Nigeria is going the way of progressive taxation. What this means is that if implemented, we will have a new tax regime that takes away the burden from poor Nigerians and small companies. It is a new thinking that will do us good”.

JAWBONE:
The owners of Lafarge sold their stake to a different company. Lafarge has new ownership because the former owners do not find doing business in Nigeria profitable anymore.

Nothing sensationalist about that

JAWBONE:
Holcim is selling its stake to a Chinese company which means they have transferred ownership of their business to a different business which ultimately means they have left Nigeria.

Heavens1stson:
The company, which owned an 84 per cent stake in Lafarge Africa (WAPCO.LG), disclosed on Sunday that it has sold its stake to China’s Huaxin Cement for $1 billion, as reported by Reuters.

President Bola Tinubu is expected to commission 1,000 housing units in the Renewed Hope City, Abuja, in December 2024, making them available for purchase to interested Nigerians.
These 1,000 units are part of the 3,112-unit Renewed Hope City project in the Karsana District, which began in February 2024.

Housing Minister Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa shared this update during the Property and Environment Writers Association of Nigeria (PEWAN) awards in Lagos on November 28, 2024, where he was honoured for his commitment to affordable housing and accessible mortgage solutions. The details were also provided in a statement on the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development’s official website.

“The Minister disclosed that a significant number of the units were close to completion, expressing optimism that 1,000 units of the Renewed Hope City in Abuja would be commissioned in December by Mr. President,” the statement read in part.
Dangiwa confirmed that the 1,000 units in Abuja set for commissioning next month will be available for purchase through the portal, https://renewedhopehomes.fmhud.gov.ng , bringing homeownership closer to many Nigerians.

What you should know

The Renewed Hope Cities is a key component of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme, an initiative of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development aimed at delivering 50,000 housing units under its first phase.

This phase includes one city in each of the six geopolitical zones and the FCT, along with estates in the remaining 30 states, each with one estate.

There are currently 14 active construction sites under the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Programme, totaling 10,112 units nationwide. These consist of three Renewed Hope Cities and 11 Renewed Hope Estates, each estate comprising 250 housing units.

The Renewed Hope Estates are funded through budgetary provisions, with subsidies for infrastructure and free land from state governments.

In contrast, the Renewed Hope Cities, developed through Public-Private Partnerships, rely on private developers who finance the projects through high-interest loans and bear the costs of land acquisition and infrastructure.

Housing Minister Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa recently disclosed that due to the differing funding mechanisms for the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates, the prices of completed housing units vary significantly.

cococandy:
Is Shekau a name or a title? I’m genuinely confused. I’ve been hearing of different Shekaus being killed in that region. Is it a position they occupy or a name they adopt once they rise up in ranks? Genuinely confused

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu and France’s President Emmanuel Macron signed two key agreements on Thursday in Paris, cementing a partnership to develop critical infrastructure and sustain long-term agriculture and food security.

The agreements were signed during an economic forum at the Palais des Élysée, attended by business leaders, industry captains, state governors, and top officials from both countries, as part of President Tinubu’s state visit.
During the event, United Bank for Africa Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, and French Minister of Economy, Finance, and Industry, Antoine Armand, signed an agreement to enable UBA to begin operations in Paris. Similarly, Zenith Bank launched its services in France.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, disclosed these developments in a statement titled ‘Nigeria, France Sign Letters of Intent on Critical Infrastructure as Zenith Bank Opens Paris Branch.

Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, Mr Wale Edun, and Mr Armand signed a Letter of Intent reaffirming commitments to investments in critical sectors, including healthcare, transportation, agriculture, renewable energy, and human capital development. The financial and technical assistance package is worth over €300m and will be distributed across all of Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.

The document also outlined both countries’ pledge to foster a strategic relationship in project implementation, remove fiscal barriers, and protect labour rights.

Additionally, Mr Edun and Mr Rémi Rioux, Chief Executive Officer of the French Development Agency (AFD), signed another Letter of Intent to support Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda reforms aimed at stimulating economic growth.

The declaration underscored AFD’s ongoing support for Nigeria’s socio-economic development, focusing on sustainable projects in urban infrastructure, transportation networks, housing, education in STEM, agriculture, food security, and healthcare.

AFD also pledged to fund agro-logistic hubs to support energy access, sustainable agriculture, and MSMEs in high-impact sectors. Nigeria, in turn, committed to expediting the efficient implementation of these projects.

At a joint press conference with President Macron, President Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing cooperation in food security, energy, solid minerals, education, and defence.
The events marked a significant milestone during President.

Troops of Sector 2, Operation Hadin Kai in collaboration with local vigilante repelled an attempted attack by Boko Haram terrorists on Sabon Fegi community in Buni Yadi, Gujba local government area of Yobe State.

Intelligence sources according to a counter-insurgency and security expert in Lake Chad, Zagazola Makama, said the attack, which occurred at approximately 11am, resulted in a fierce gun battle that left four terrorists dead.

Among the terrorist leaders neutralised include a notorious Boko Haram commander, Abu Shekau.

The troops also recovered several weapons from the insurgents after engaging them with superior firepower, forcing others to flee and securing a decisive victory for the security forces.

Shekau, a staunch loyalist and admirer of the late Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau, was considered a significant figure within the terror group.

Abu Shekau (father of Shekau) had named his son after Abubakar Shekau as a mark of reverence for the group’s former ruthless leader.

French President Emmanuel Macron has commended Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for channelling the same transformative energy he used in Lagos towards advancing Nigeria’s development.

Macron made the statement on Thursday during a joint press conference with Tinubu in France, where the Nigerian leader has been on an official visit since Wednesday. Discussing the strengthening of bilateral ties between France and Nigeria, Macron praised Tinubu’s leadership, particularly his commitment to improving security in the ECOWAS region.

The French president also highlighted Tinubu’s ability to inspire confidence in French and international business communities, positioning Nigeria as an attractive destination for investment.

“I would like to congratulate you for your leadership and the desire for us to work together. I would like to thank you Mr. President for your presence, on the state visit. I’d like to thank you for your energy and dynamism.

“Having transformed the state of Lagos, you’re using that energy to transform your country for the better.

“The energy that we have felt among your ministers, investors and business communities, has completely convinced us the French and also the whole business world to invest in your country and make Nigeria a major partner for now and for the future,” Macron said.

Multi-sectoral Partnership with Nigeria
In addition, Macron expressed France’s eagerness to establish a multi-sectoral partnership with the Nigerian government, encompassing agreements in health, the creative industries, and climate change.

The French leader highlighted Nigeria’s strengthened partnership with France, noting that the country serves as a business hub for numerous Nigerian financial institutions.

He further stated that France seeks to develop a longer-term collaboration with Nigeria, focusing on key areas such as food security, mining, and defense.

“In each of these sectors, we have defined some lines of action in terms of critical minerals and energy, we will be signing some supplementary agreements. In the last few years, I’m glad to see the partnership we have signed with the strengthening of Nigerian banking in our country in the last five years.

“We have become the business hub for Nigerian business in France. Many banks have opened their offices here. We have financial partnerships.

“Apart from this economic partnership which makes France a long-term partner with you, we also want to partner with you on food security and the extraction of your minerals and be a partner of your defense strategy,” Macron said.

The federal government has handed over 15 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), and Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO).

The Federal Government while explaining that the initiative is part of President’s Renewed Hope Clean Energy Transport Scheme, added that it is designed to ease the burden of fuel subsidy removal.

The Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Alkali, who spoke at the Renewed Hope Transportation Scheme FCT Bus launch and handing over ceremony in Abuja on Thursday, said the initiative will enable Nigerians to access cleaner and more affordable energy solutions. He added that it would reduce transport costs for operators and commuters.

He said: “These buses symbolize the government’s commitment to empowering citizens while transitioning to a cleaner energy economy. They also allow us to monitor and ensure the safety and efficiency of the transportation sector, ultimately benefiting all Nigerians.

“By transitioning to compressed natural gas, we are cutting down on carbon emissions, reducing the cost of fuel for transportation operators, and enabling the growth of a cleaner and more efficient transportation system”.

The Minister while calling on the unions to ensure that the buses are used effectively and maintained properly, also urged Nigerians to embrace the initiative.

“This is not just about today but about creating a transportation system that will serve generations to come. I appeal to all Nigerians to embrace this initiative and support the government’s efforts to move our nation forward. We must work together to ensure that our resources are used to our advantage, thus creating a Nigeria where opportunities abound and innovation thrives”.

Sen. Alkali further said the Ministry will ensure effective sensitization of transport owners, operators, passengers and the general public to make the initiative accessible to Nigerians.
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“This will no doubt make the Initiative popular, acceptable and reliable to enhance the welfare of Nigerians which the President is passionate to provide in compliance with the constitutional directive to uphold the primary purpose of government”.

The Programme Director of Presidential CNG Initiative, Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi disclosed that residents of the FCT will enjoy 40 days of free rides on the buses.

He said: “This initiative is safer, more reliable, and available. On these buses for the next 40 days, people will enjoy free transportation as part of the benefits of this administration. And after these 40 days, they will enjoy a discount because of the work of Mr. President.

He also said more buses will be rolled out in the coming months.
The National President of RTEAN, Dr. Musa Mohammed described the initiative as a testament to the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to enhancing the lives of our citizens during these challenging times.

He said: “Transportation is the backbone of any economy. It connects people to opportunities, services, and essential resources. However, many of our fellow citizens have been facing difficulties with the rising costs of transportation, impacting their daily lives and limiting their access to work, education, and health care. Recognizing these challenges, the federal government has taken a remarkable step towards alleviating this burden.

“These CNG buses will provide free transportation to individuals in need, creating a ripple effect of positivity throughout our communities. We will not only be easing the financial strain on families but will also be contributing to a greener and more sustainable environment. CNG is a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels, and by utilizing these buses, we are playing our part in reducing our carbon footprint.”

The chairman, southeast council of traditional rulers, also traditional ruler of Amaifeke Ancient Royalty, Eze E.C. Okeke has reaffirmed that the ban on all cultural festivals across Igboland is still in force.

He said the region was still in mourning the demise of its illustrious sons and daughter, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Ifeanyi Ubah, Ogbonnaya Onu and Ngozi Onwenu, respectively.

In a press statement personally signed by him, he said it became necessary to formally inform the General public, especially Heads of various Igbo Associations/Organizations in Igboland (Comprising the five South East States) that a mourning period had since been declared by the South East Council of Traditional Rulers and Ohaneze Ndigbo in honour of the departed souls of great children of Igboland who transited this year and have been successfully buried.

Eze Okeke pointed out that in considering the weight of what happened in losing such important Igbo leaders within the same space of time and the pains it has elicited across the broad spectrum of the Igbo society, it was deemed necessary to cancel various events and ceremonies earlier scheduled to commemorate the annual Igbo New yam festival for 2024, which usually involves Ohaneze Ndigbo, State Governments, Traditional Rulers and other key Stakeholders of Igbo extraction.

He stated that It would have amounted to self ridicule and obvious insensitivity to Ndigbo if the region had continued with such centralized gathering to merry when it is expected to mourn and be sober over what he described as calamitous loss of top Igbo leaders.

“We shall consider whoever that violates or attempts to breach this sacred decision as a great enemy of Ndigbo and may go further to request for explanations if such a recalcitrant person or group knows what happened to these great men and woman that transited at our most difficult time, when their presence obviously mattered most,” he cautioned.