This is the kind of change Nigeria needs. We want government officials who would reform the institutions they head.

celinajumbo11:


https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-ongoing-firs-promotional-examination-saga

PRESS STATEMENT


FUEL AND NEW NAIRA NOTES SCARCITY: FIFTH COLUMNISTS WORKING IN CAHOOTS WITH PDP


Nigerians should no longer be in doubt about those working in cahoots with fifth columnists in the system to inflict avoidable pains on our hapless people for political end.

No sooner Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu empathised with the Nigerian people facing the dual crises of fuel and new Naira notes scarcity, than the opposition PDP and the Atiku camp issued a knee-jerk response, derailing from the issues, distorting Asiwaju’s statement and trying, in vain, to create a wedge between our presidential candidate and President Muhammadu Buhari.

When the guilty are afraid of being uncovered, they try to push back with red-herring

For the records, Asiwaju Tinubu during APC campaign rally at Abeokuta on Wednesday, in his statement, did not mention, blame or accuse President Muhammadu Buhari for the current challenges in the country.

Asiwaju Tinubu was only adverting government’s attention to the sabotage being carried out by some Fifth Columnists in the system, possibly working in cahoots with the PDP.

The CBN officials, including Governor Godwin Emefiele have said many times that enough new Naira notes have been supplied to the banks, yet our people complain that they have not been able to get the new notes.

In recent days, many ATMs are either not working or when working they are dispensing the old notes, just a few days to the January 31 deadline.

Similarly, Asiwaju Tinubu is aware of the salutary efforts by President Buhari to end the fuel queues, by chairing a 14-man panel. Yet the queues and agony continue.

For a presidential candidate, who cares about the suffering of our people, he has a duty to warn government that its efforts to make life better for Nigerians are being sabotaged on several fronts.

Our presidential candidate only re-echoed what is well known and acknowledged, even by President Buhari himself at different fora: That there are Fifth Columnists in and outside of government who often throw spanners in the works against good intentions and programmes of the government.

How does an advisory genuinely made by Asiwaju Tinubu to protect and create goodwill for the government of his party become an attack? It can only be so in the jaundiced view of the PDP.

It is in this light we found amusing the directionless Atiku Campaign's bagful of mischief in their hurriedly put together press statement meant to gain shameful mileage from the suffering of Nigerians.

PDP and Atiku should remember not to get high on their own smoke. No political blackmail and an attempt to create a conflict between Tinubu and his long-term ally, President Muhammadu Buhari can succeed.

We have bad news for Atiku and his handlers: their latest mischief is therefore doomed to fail.

The Atiku rudderless campaign, always seeking cheap shots and easy ways has again woefully attempted to make a mountain out of a molehill from the comments made by Asiwaju Tinubu in Abeokuta.

As a patriotic and compassionate leader, Asiwaju Tinubu will not stomach seeing ordinary Nigerians being made to face excessive difficulties over mundane issues due to activities of petrol and currency hoarders.

As a proud leader of the APC, Asiwaju Tinubu would not also look indifferent as his party and the government get dirtied with black brush at a critical time like this, whether he is a candidate or not.

Atiku camp’s hasty move to mine political capital out of the clearly difficult situation betrays his campaign’s possible connivance, due to its desperation.

As Asiwaju said in Abeokuta, these orchestrated hardships will not stop his impending victory come 25 February. Nigerians shall surely vote for a party that is working to solve all the problems and mess created by the PDP for which their presidential candidate was an integral part in the, largely, 16 unproductive years they spent in government.

Atiku and his team can continue their indulgence in fake news and twisted narratives, they cannot change the minds of majority of Nigerians who have long rejected the PDP and Atiku, after their 16 wasted years in power.


Bayo Onanuga
Director, Media & Publicity
APC Presidential Campaign Council
January 26, 2023

FIRS Breaks Its 2021 Record, Collects N10.1 Trillion In 2022

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has announced that it collected over N10 trillion in tax revenue in the year 2022, the highest tax collection ever recorded in its history.

The Service made this known in its “FIRS 2022 Performance Update,” report signed by its Executive Chairman, Mr. Muhammad Nami, and released to the public on Monday, after his briefing with President Muhammadu Buhari.

“The FIRS, in the year 2022 collected a total of N10.1 trillion in both oil (N4.09 trillion) and non-oil (N5.96 trillion) revenues as against a target of N10.44 trillion.

“Companies Income Tax contributed N2.83 trillion; Value Added Tax N2.51 trillion; Electronic Money Transfer Levy N125.67 billion and Earmarked Taxes N353.69 billion.

“Non-oil taxes contributed 59% of the total collection in the year, while oil tax collection stood at 41% of total collection,” the report noted.

It is the first time that the FIRS will cross the 10-trillion Naira mark in tax revenue collection.

The Performance Update Report further clarified that included in the total revenue sum is the sum of N146.27 billion which is the total value of certificates issued by the Service to private investors and NNPC for road infrastructure under the Road Infrastructure Development Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme created by Executive Order No. 007 of 2019.

The report also stated that the N10.1 trillion is exclusive of tax waived on account of various tax incentives granted under the respective laws, which amounted to N1,805,040,163,008.

Providing perspective to this unprecedented tax collection, the FIRS noted in the Performance Update that the Muhammad Nami-led management upon assumption of office came up with a four-point focus, namely: administrative and operational restructuring; making the service customer-focused; creating a data-centric institution; and automation of administrative and operational processes.

It further noted that over the period of 2020 to 2022, the management had introduced reforms bordering around these four-point focus which were producing results.

“The reforms introduced at different times from 2020 are gradually yielding fruits. By the close of 2022, the Service had fully restructured the administration of the Service for maximum efficiency and achieved internal cohesion such that all functional units are working in unison towards the achievement of set goals.

“As a result of conducive environment created for staff, officers of the Service are pulling their weight on the global stage with international recognitions and awards;

“The Service had also automated most of the administrative and operational processes. A major leap was the full deployment of the TaxPro Max for end-to-end administration of taxes in June 2021. The module for the automated TCC went live 1st January 2023 while taxpayers had already downloaded over 1,000 TCCs this year without having to visit FIRS office,” the report read.

It also noted that the Service had operationalised its data mining and analysis system thereby allowing for data-backed taxpayer profiling.

Other reforms the Service introduced in this period focused on the detoxification of the tax environment by ridding it of mutual mistrust, negative tax morale, and tax evasion, through effective taxpayer education, open engagement with stakeholders and improved services.

It noted that it is courtesy these reforms, framed around the four-focus points that the Service was able to achieve this collection.

Mr. Muhammad Nami, Executive Chairman of the FIRS, commenting on the N10.1 trillion record tax collection achieved under his leadership stated that this was made possible through “dogged implementation of strategic reforms over the past two years; a renewed commitment by officers of the Service, accompanied with a boosted morale; as well as the innovative deployment of technology for automation of both tax administration and operational processes.

“This collection was possible through collaboration with our stakeholders, from our colleagues at the Executive branch of government, to the members of the judiciary, to our brothers and sisters at the National Assembly, as well as the tax advisory committee, professional bodies, unions, and most crucially our taxpayers.” 



Speaking on the outlook for 2023, Mr. Nami stated that the Service would build on the current reforms, achieve full automation and continue to establish a resilient Service that would continue to provide sustainable tax revenue to fund the government.

“We intend to maintain, and even improve on the momentum in 2023,” he stated.

“We have peaked, but this is not certainly our peak. In fact, my hope is that this would be the least sum the Service would ever collect going forward.

“Our goal is to identify more areas where we can improve on in the delivery and efficiency of our collection; and plug loopholes, while deploying innovative reforms in data and artificial intelligence.

“Ultimately, we believe that the FIRS can shoulder the responsibility of providing revenue needed for the governments across the Federation to cater for the needs of the Nigerian people through taxes.

“This is feasible once we get the much-desired support from the three tiers and arms of government, as well as all stakeholders.”

The FIRS appreciated President Muhammadu Buhari for his support, as well as the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed and the Minister of State, Mr. Clem Agba.

“FIRS Management uses this medium to commend all patriotic taxpayers who paid their taxes correctly, stakeholders for their support, and officers of the Service for their dedication to duty.

“The Service equally owes its achievements in 2022 to effective leadership of the Honourable Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning – Mrs Zainab Ahmed, her brother, the Minister of State – Mr Clem Agba, members of the National Assembly and the fatherly support of the President and Commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria – Muhammadu Buhari.”

This is the second consecutive year that the Service will be recording unprecedented tax collection.

In 2021, the Service achieved a record tax collection of N6.405 trillion, being over hundred percent of its collection target for the year, as well as the first time that the Service will cross the six trillion mark.

In 2022, building on the success of the preceding year, the Service achieved a record collection of N10.1 trillion, being over 96% of its collection target for the year, and the first time the Service will cross the ten trillion mark.

This collection represents an over one hundred percent leap from the tax collected by the Service in 2020—the first year of the current management of the Service.

Johannes Oluwatobi Wojuola
Special Assistant to the Executive Chairman, FIRS
(Media&Communication)
January 23, 2023

FIRS Opens 25 New Satellite Tax Offices Across Nigeria
 
Officially launches, Micro and Small Tax Office, Epe, Lagos …
 
The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), has announced the opening of 25 new Tax Offices across the country.
 
These new Tax Offices, approved by the Muhammad Nami led management, are part of the Service’s goal to bring tax services nearer to the tax paying public while bringing FIRS nearer to the public.
 
These new Tax Offices would help bring many taxpayers into the tax net, help filling of Companies Income Tax, and Value Added Tax as well as monitor compliance with other Taxes.
 
Speaking at the launch of one of these new Tax Offices—the Micro and Small Tax Office, Epe, Lagos—last week, the Group Lead, General Tax Operations Group at FIRS, Kabir Abba, stated that the FIRS Management holds these offices as important, and expects them to spearhead tax collection activities in the area.
 
He noted that the Executive Chairman, FIRS, Muhammed Nami, had directed that staff at these offices were expected to take the assignment very serious while working tenaciously towards bringing more taxpayers into the tax net.
 
Mr. Nami had noted that the deployment of technology had made their work easy, especially that the taxpayers could work from the comfort of their offices and homes, to register for tax, file returns and pay their taxes in a quick and seamless manner, including applying for their Tax Clearance Certificate.
 
Also addressing the Tax Officers at Epe, the Director Technical of the Service, who also serves as the Chairman of the New Satellite Tax Offices Implementation Committee, Barr. Iro Ukpai urged the office to reciprocate the confidence entrusted to them by the management by ensuring that they go all out to the field to bring all the Taxpayers who have not been paying their taxes into the tax net.
 
The Tax Controller, Chinedu Adirije in his comments promised the Group Lead that the Tax Office is ready to do its best to bring in all the leaking tax revenues from Epe into the government purse and contribute towards realizing the N10.4 trillion target given to the FIRS by the government.
 
Johannes Oluwatobi Wojuola
Special Assistant to the Executive Chairman, FIRS
(Media and Communication)
November 16, 2022

PRESS RELEASE

CHRISTIAN PILGRIMAGE: NCPC BOSS VISITS ISRAELI AMBASSADOR

The Executive Secretary Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission, NCPC Rev Dr Yakubu Pam has paid a courtesy visit to the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, HE Mr Michael Freeman at the Israeli Embassy at Asokoro Abuja on 7th October, 2022.

The NCPC boss thanked the Envoy for the cooperation and assistance that the Commission had been enjoying, especially in the area of consular services as well as the robust bilateral relations between Nigeria and the State of Israel.

Rev Pam averred that Israel is a critical and major stakeholder in our Pilgrimage exercise which explains why this was vividly captured in the establishment Act of the Commission. He added that Israel remains the fulcrum of the foundation of our Christian faith and a major Pilgrimage destination of the Commission.

The NCPC helmsman further stated that the relationship between Israel and the Commission in the area of Pilgrimage had existed for decades and would do everything possible to continue to strengthen it.

The No 1 Christian Pilgrim officer of the Federation intimated his host that the Commission plans to continue its 2021 Pilgrimage exercise to Rome and Israel on 16th October, 2022 and thus solicited the assistance of the Ambassador in the speedy procurement of Visas for intending pilgrims.
Speaking, the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, HE Mr Michael Freeman thanked the NCPC boss for his visit and promised to always render assistance to the Commission for smooth Pilgrimage exercise.

He commended Rev Pam for his efforts so far in repositioning the Commission and Christian Pilgrimage in Nigeria just barely two years in the saddle as the third substantive Executive Secretary of NCPC.

Ambassador Freeman hinted that the Israeli government would soon sign a bilateral Air Service Agreement with a Nigerian Airline to enable it airlift passengers and pilgrims directly from Nigeria to TEL-Aviv, Israel.

He canvased the support and cooperation of NCPC to make this new development possible as this would impact positively on the fortunes and progress of Christian Pilgrimage in Nigeria.

He stressed that the Commission would be making history with the commencement of direct flight to TEL-AVIV, Israel, especially with a Nigerian Airline.

The NCPC boss was accompanied on the visit by the Director of Operations, Mr Abu Okpanachi.

Signed Celestine Toruka
Deputy Director/ Head, Media and Public Relations
8th October, 2022.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE


GLOBAL NET-ZERO EMISSIONS TARGET: WE’RE WINNING ARGUMENT FOR GAS AS TRANSITION FUEL - OSINBAJO


Once more, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, is restating the need to designate gas as a transition fuel in the global net-zero emissions target by 2060 even as he observes that Africa is now winning that argument.

Prof Osinbajo spoke while receiving a delegation of Executive Directors of the African Development Bank, AfDB, led by the Dean of the Board, Mrs Mmakgoshi Lekhethe, earlier today at the Presidential Villa.

“We know what the issues are, we know there is no way we are going to do away with gas. The European Union, fortunately, agrees that gas should be regarded as a transition fuel as well as nuclear power.

“I think that we are winning the argument in some ways in that respect, and it might also be the time to focus on what to do in terms of finance,” according to the VP.

While delving into the issue of climate finance, Prof Osinbajo informed the delegation of Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan and the cost implications, disclosing that transitioning to net-zero would be in the order of “$400billion leading up to 2060.”

He went on further to say that “we simply have to think more seriously about innovation in climate finance and look at the various options.”

He said AfDB has some very interesting options, and the African Finance Corporation, AFC, is also looking at what their options can be.

Aside from the need to continue to invest in gas as a transition fuel, the VP also pointed out the usefulness of the rainforest as a means of reducing carbon dioxide, noting that our rainforest is able to absorb significant tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.

“If we preserve these rainforests, it means that we will prevent deforestation by those using the wood as firewood for cooking and for heating. It would also mean that we prevent (state) governments from using the land and giving it out for agriculture or industrialization.

“If we finance gas and use it for cooking which is a replacement for firewood, we must continue to find gas investments so that this continues to work.”

The Vice President then explained to the AfDB officials what Nigeria has done in terms of renewable energy with the #SolarPowerNaija programme, a component of the Economic Sustainability Plan.

“We initiated the #SolarPowerNaija programme which is to install solar home systems as well as mini-grids in 5million homes with an impact on 25million people.”

He conveyed the challenges of funding the programme and stated that “what we have tried to do is look for ways to de-risk funding to the private sector because there are so many private sector companies interested.”

“We think that there’s great opportunity there and we have found that where we have introduced solar in commercial spaces such as open markets, the traders are ready to pay, even well in excess of what they pay for power that is coming off the grid, as long as it is constant. Even in villages, people are prepared to pay.”

In her own remarks, the Dean of the Board, Mrs Lekhethe, representing South Africa and other countries, said the visit to Nigeria was mainly to “listen and learn and use the opportunity to visit some of the bank’s projects which included a solar energy site being created at Wuse Market in Abuja.”

She further stated that the board had a meeting with Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State and other development partners; visited Lagos and had an engagement with the private sector.

Mrs Lekhethe noted that an important key takeaway from their visit is that in spite of challenges exacerbated by COVID-19, Nigeria has pockets of success and they were pleased to see these successes

Present at the meeting includes Dr. Lamin Barrow, Director-General, Nigeria Country Office; other Executive Directors such as Dr Oyetunde Oyebode, (Nigeria), David Stevenson (Canada), Ahmed Zayed (Egypt); Paal Bjornestad (Norway); Cornelius Dekop (Botswana); Niels Breyer (Germany) Amos Cheptoo (Kenya); Takaaki Nomoto (Japan) and other top officials of the bank.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
18th May 2022

By: Babatunde Obele

It is a known fact that our nation is blessed with fantastic human resource, but for far too long, our national output has not reflected our individual capacities and one of the major reasons it has been so is because majority of our best minds have remained mostly as spectators on the side-lines when it comes to participating in active politics and governance. And because nature abhors vacuum, it gives room for our second-class minds to take over a greater part of our national structures.

Every informed mind knows that a nation may be endowed with extra-ordinary individual great minds, but such a nation may not make any significant progress on the global scale until the best minds begin to take charge of politics and governance. Active participation of men and women of knowledge and proven integrity is what serves the common good and guarantees socio-economic progress.

Prof Yemi Osinbajo’s aspiration to become the next president of Nigeria therefore, serves as a clarion call to all men and women of knowledge and goodwill from across the country, irrespective of tribe, religion, or political affiliation, to make a decision towards ensuring that the office of the president and other key offices within our national structures, are occupied by only the best amongst us.

That explains the excitement which has been displayed by the majority of our citizens since the Vice President courageously declared his intention to run for the office of the president on the 11th of April, 2022. That excitement had been building up even before he made that bold declaration. From North to South, Muslims and Christians, men and women of goodwill who believe deeply in the promise of greater Nigeria are excited because Providence has given us Prof Yemi Osinbajo, SAN; — a man who has not only been trained on the job, but also represents the best amongst us, — to help mobilize the unprecedented social capital within our nation towards building the Nigeria of our dreams.

I must say that the killing of Deborah Samuel is a deeply distressing thing, very disturbing - such an attrocious killing of the young lady by a mob who took the law into their own hands. It is very unfortunate.

The President has reacted to this, a statement which was issued earlier condemning the action.

The swift reaction of the Sokoto State Government and also the Sultan of Sokoto is highly commendable. Their swift reaction to the situation clearly demonstrated the outrage of millions of Nigerians and also demonstrated the desire of everyone to ensure that the perpetrators are quickly apprehended and prosecuted.

As the President said, there’s really no excuse for anyone to take the law into their own hands no matter the provocation, there are set processes for ensuring that we are able to redress whatever wrongs that are done against us.

We must express our condolence to the family of the young lady Deborah Samuel. I can't imagine how her parents, siblings and members of her family feel, not just about her death, but the very horrendous nature of its occurrence. It is very sad indeed, and I extend our sincere condolences to them. I ask that the Almighty will comfort them at this time.

*Meets APC delegates in Taraba, Adamawa States

*Lamido prays for success of VP's presidential aspiration
There is no greater privilege than to have the opportunity to give one's best in the service of the country, contributing to society and making life better for the people, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo was speaking on Wednesday during his visits to Taraba and Adamawa States, in continuation of his engagements with stakeholders and delegates of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the States.

The VP was received in both States by their Governors, Darius Ishaku – Taraba; and Umaru Fintiri – Adamawa; as well as other senior state government officials, and excited residents and people in the States.

He also visited the Lamido Adamawa's palace on arrival in the State.

According to the VP at the palace, "my reason for aspiring for the office of the President of Nigeria is to serve the Nigerian people. I have no other reason or objective except to serve.

"After one has been in office as Vice President for 7 years, I know that God did not give me that opportunity so that I would seat down somewhere and write the history of my service as Vice President.

"It is for the purpose of serving the people, and that is why I am so determined that if God gives me the opportunity to serve, the Nigerian people would realise indeed they have done the right thing by putting me in office because I would serve the country with everything, with all my heart and commitment."

The VP was received at the Palace of the Lamido of Adamawa, by His Royal Highness, Muhammadu Mustapha, who recalled the VP's chieftaincy title as the Jagaba of Adamawa. The monarch then prayed for the realization of the VP's presidential aspiration.

“I hope your coming will add more light to Adamawa because you are the Jagaba of Adamawa. I hope you succeed in your efforts to become the President of this country. As long as when you’re coming to Adamawa, and with your visit to my palace, this will encourage people to see that you are really the Jagaba of Adamawa,” the Lamido said.

Also at the palace, Governor Fintiri welcomed the VP to the State, adding that "we pray that God will answer your heart’s desires. I also hope that the APC delegates will see the reason to put a square peg in a square hole. I welcome you to Adamawa and I wish you the best of luck."

The Vice President thanked the monarch for his warm reception and prayed for his good health.

He also noted the continuing efforts of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari in addressing the diverse challenges facing the country.

“God doesn’t give you a challenge without showing you how to solve them. I know all the efforts we are putting in place especially led by President Muhammadu Buhari, we will see an end to the insecurity in our country. In the next few years, God giving us the strength and opportunity, we will definitely see progress in our country,” Prof. Osinbajo stated.

“I want to say to our country that there is a lot of hope; this country has everything that is necessary to be great – the talents, resources and we also have the men and women who are able to serve. I am very optimistic that all will be well with our country.”

While addressing the delegates in both States, the VP acknowledged all the support that has been offered towards his presidential bid, while again emphasising that his sole purpose for seeking the highest office of the land, was purely to serve Nigeria and give his best for the country.

Emphasizing the importance of service to the people, Prof. Osinbajo stated that “one of the very important things I want to share with delegates anywhere I go is that the role of the politician is an important one.”

“God has given us an opportunity to serve, and that opportunity is one that we must treasure and thank God for. Out of so many people in the country, those of you who are here are those who have been chosen in one way or the other, appointed or elected.

"That position is not for our personal aggrandizement, it is to contribute to our society and make life better for our people. It is an opportunity to truly serve the people," he noted.

During his meeting with the APC delegates, the Vice President took questions from the stakeholders, speaking on issues of national development, with specific focus on different sectors, including agriculture, security, business and economy, youths, technology, health, education, social investment/welfare among others.

Later while addressing reporters after his interaction with delegates in both States, the Vice President expressed delight at the commendable support he’s been receiving from the delegates across the States.

First, in Taraba, he told the reporters, “we have had fruitful discussions and robust engagements, and all of it is directed at various ways we can do good things for our country and how we can make progress. I think that the future looks very bright indeed.”

Later in Adamawa he told the journalists at the end of the meeting that “the support here is very commendable and I am really excited to see all our party members who are here. We have had a very useful discussion and we have been able to talk about a wide variety of issues. We are all looking forward to much more progress in our country."

The Vice President was accompanied on the trips by members of the National Assembly and other notable political leaders.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
4th May 2022

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

WHY I WANT TO SERVE NIGERIA AS PRESIDENT - OSINBAJO

**Visits Edo, Delta States in continuation of meetings with APC delegates

**Osinbajo's credentials intimidating, co-contestants are shivering by now - Oba Of Benin

Giving his best in dedicated service to Nigeria’s progress and development is the utmost motivation to run for president, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Just as he emphasized his heartfelt desire to serve if given the ticket under the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Osinbajo noted that the country needed more committed leaders ready to make sacrifices for the good of the people to ensure its further development.

The Vice President spoke on Thursday during his engagements with delegates and stalwarts of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benin, Edo State; and in Asaba, Delta State.

The VP’s trips to Edo and Delta States are in continuation of his nationwide engagements with APC delegates and stakeholders. The VP also paid courtesy calls to the palaces of the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II; and the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof.) Chike Edozien, where he officially informed the monarchs of his desire to run for president.

Just as it has been in every other state he has visited so far – Oyo, Ondo and Ogun, Prof Osinbajo received a rousing welcome from the people, including on the streets, supporters, cultural dancers, residents and very enthusiastic party delegates, who came out in numbers to declare their support for his candidacy.

On arrival in Benin, the Vice President was received at the airport by the Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, and other government officials; while he was received at the airport in Delta State by the Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, among other senior government officials.

The VP, who spoke passionately about the motivation to run for President, said "my purpose is to serve this country. When it comes to serving this country, it is the desire of my heart."

Thanking the APC delegates for their cooperation and support in the states, Prof. Osinbajo stated, “I am deeply grateful for all the support I have received, from this particular camp of our party, individually and collectively.”

Restating how the opportunities he was given by President Muhammadu Buhari to serve in government and undertake major assignments have prepared him ahead for the presidency, the VP noted that “the whole premise and objective of my running as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is to serve this nation; It is a matter of responsibility,” adding that there is no way “I could have become Vice President, if not by the special grace of God.

“We need leadership that is committed, truthful and who would make sacrifices for others. These are the types of leaders that would transform Nigeria."

“With the cooperation of everyone who is here, we can actually do things that will transform this nation… we will, indeed, transform this nation. Change involves people, and people placed at a particular area or in a position where they can really make a difference.”

Highlighting the essence of service for the greater good of the country, the VP noted that "in choosing the leader for our country, let's not be sentimental."

While responding to questions from delegates in both States, Prof. Osinbajo highlighted the efforts of the Buhari administration in improving the business environment through its Ease of Doing Business reforms over the past few years.

The VP also highlighted the impact of the Administration’s Social Investment Programmes; adding that he would also focus more on the development of youths and how technology could be deployed to improve the skills of young people; as well as education, health and agriculture, among other critical sectors to spur national development.

Earlier, the Oba of Benin, who warmly received the VP at his palace, prayed for the success of the VP's presidency project, extolling his qualities.

In his remarks, the revered monarch stated that other co-contestants on the platform of the ruling party (APC) and other political parties for the position to become Nigeria’s next President are shivering because of the intimidating dossier of the Vice President.

According to Oba Ewuare II, "Your Excellency, we have heard the reasons why you’re here today. We don’t have to over flog your credentials; they speak for themselves anywhere. I always admire your eloquence."

Continuing, the Oba said, "no doubt, your credentials; since you have come out to run for this great office, I think you are going to give a lot of problems to all the other contestants.

“There is no gainsaying that they all probably shivering where they are because of your credentials; coupled with your calmness, your humility and great respect for culture and being a true man of God, who has the fear of God in his heart."

“The monarch further noted that, "if we have politicians in the country that have the fear of God in their hearts, not just to go there to rape the treasury and oppress people, whether at the presidential level or gubernatorial level, I think the country will be better for it."

While urging politicians to always put the country first in all their engagements, the Oba assured the VP of continuous prayers from the Benin Kingdom for the actualisation of his desire.

"But what we see, Your Excellency, most of the time, is people rushing to be president, vice president, or governors, only to get there to enrich their pockets, to enrich themselves, leaving the electorates that put them there, hard and dry. This kind of thing should change. They should put the electorate first."

He also thanked President Buhari for setting the records straight on the issue of the artefacts returned to the Benin Kingdom, stating that the people remain indebted to him.

Giving his royal blessings to the aspiration of the Vice President, the Oba said, "as a man of God, if by the grace of God, you are the man, you have a whole lot on your shoulder to remove all these vices out of our society; make Nigeria a better place to live and a tourist destination in all spheres. We have great human and material resources in this country, and we can even see or discover a lot more.

"We want to stay here in Nigeria and enjoy the good things of life in Nigeria, not in Dubai, not in the United States and some other countries."

Similarly, in Asaba, the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof) Chike Edozien, prayed for the success of Prof. Osinbajo in his desire to become the next President of Nigeria.

During his meetings with party stakeholders and APC delegates, the VP fielded questions on a variety of issues ranging from governance, security, economy and politics, among others.

Earlier on Wednesday evening, the Vice President had an Iftar dinner with State House Correspondents at his Aguda House residence, where he also discussed his 2023 Presidential bid.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
29th April 2022

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE


BOTH AT HOME AND ABROAD, NIGERIANS HAVE THE SAME DESIRE FOR A GREATER COUNTRY - OSINBAJO

Whether at home or abroad, all Nigerians have the same burden and share the same desire to see our country working more effectively and becoming truly greater by harnessing all of the existing potentials and really transform the nation.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, expressed this view during a meeting yesterday with a delegation from the US-based Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas, ANPA, and a team of Nigerian doctors from diaspora including those who have relocated back to the country to establish private hospitals.

At a meeting which discussed the challenges in the health sector and reviewed some detailed policy proposals, Prof. Osinbajo noted that “practically everyone, whether you worked abroad or you worked here (in Nigeria), all have the same burden and desire in our hearts - to see the huge potentials here in this country transformed into something real.

“I think that it is a constant burden for people who are here, let alone people who are abroad, to see how well things can be done and how well things are going.”

According to the VP “we must find a way of harnessing and galvanizing so that we can work towards making this country to really work, not just for those who can afford it, but for the vast majority of our people who are disempowered.”

Speaking about the work of Nigerians in diaspora, particularly doctors, Prof Osinbajo acknowledged that, “physicians in diaspora, especially in the US and Americas, have contributed very considerably to healthcare in Nigeria. Almost at every turn, they are contributing in terms of services in rural areas, medical teams everywhere providing all sorts of care, and this has gone on for years and years.”

Praising the work of physicians, the Vice President noted that “if there is any group of professionals good at giving back and showing that level of altruism, it is physicians in diaspora.

“I commend you for that and to say that we are seeing a good number of physicians returning home to set up and establish businesses here.”

Admitting to the challenges being in the business environment, the Vice President disclosed that “it is a good thing that we have acknowledged the problems and issues in respect to establishing businesses here, including access to credit and power.

“I think that improving the environment generally will make a huge difference.”

He added that “we must prioritize healthcare being that it is essentially a matter of life and death, but I want us to understand the context, which is to improve the business environment and ensure that it is one where local businesses can work very well.”

While addressing some of the concerns of the delegation with respect to healthcare financing, he said "one of the major issues for a population our size is that we can’t depend on budget alone because we don’t have enough resources.

“The way to go is to do a lot more in terms of health insurance and for government to provide a pool of resources from everyone, one way or the other, and begin by paying for some of those who cannot afford to.”

Regarding the Healthcare Sector Reform Committee which the Vice President chairs, he affirmed that “a lot of the work that we are doing at the committee has to do with general access to healthcare and how to make that easier. We hope that this particular healthcare reform effort would be one that would bring in more order into the way that we do things particularly between the Federal Government and the States.”

In his own remarks, the Secretary to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, who led the delegation to the Presidential Villa, Engr. Dr. Sule Yakubu Bassi noted that “we are happy to deal with both Nigerian doctors in the diaspora and those who are returning to set up practices here in Nigeria thereby turning the brain drain to brain gain."

Also speaking, the President of the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas, ANPA, Dr. Christopher Okunseri, described the organisation as one that has been in existence for over “27 years, registered in the United States of America, representing over 5000 dentists and physicians across the US.

“We as an organisation have a vision of a healthier Nigeria. We have an ANPA week and have 3 key areas of activities; first is the medical mission, second is advocacy and third is engaging with colleagues here in Nigeria in what is recognised as Continuing Professional Development, CPD.”

Speaking on behalf of doctors who have returned home and established private practice in Nigeria, Dr. Modupe Elebute mentioned that “from our point of view, it has been tough and difficult but it has given us a huge amount of joy, the impact that we are able to make on the access to healthcare on the patients we are seeing.

She noted "the impact we are able to make to raise the standard (of healthcare) by bringing back years of experience, teaching, training and consultant level attained abroad and trying to do research here (in Nigeria).

Members of the delegation were top physicians in specialized fields of medicine such as Neurology, Gynecology, Paediatrics, and Orthopaedics. They include Dr. Chinyere Anyaogu; Dr. Iyore James; Dr. Benjamin Anyanwu; Dr. Abraham Osinbowale; Dr. Ifeanyi Obiakor; Dr. Ajovi Scott-Emuakpor; Dr. Clifford Eke; Dr. Biodun Ogunbo; Dr. Dauda Balami; and other officials from NiDCOM.

The meeting was organised by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, NiDCOM.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity
Office of the Vice President
28th April, 2022

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE


OSINBAJO DESCRIBES LATE ALAAFIN A BRIDGE BUILDER, MAN OF GREAT INTELLECT WHO WILL BE MISSED

Aside from impacting the lives of many in his community, the Southwest and across the country, the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, was a bridge-builder whose great intellectual knowledge and depth would be missed, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.


Prof. Osinbajo stated this today in a chat with journalists in Akure while on a visit to Ondo State.


According to the Vice President, "we all feel a great deal of pain and a deep sense of loss. The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, was a force of nature all by himself, he was a man of incredible knowledge, depth, and he was erudite in every way.


"He was a bridge builder and I think he created several avenues in the 52 odd years that he reigned. He created several avenues for people from the Southwest of Nigeria to interact with people from other zones from those very early days."


Speaking about his personal experience with the late highly referred monarch, Prof. Osinbajo said "I had several meetings with him, especially in Abuja, whenever he was in Abuja and sometimes in Ibadan.


"He was one of the most intelligent commentators on public life in Nigeria, on politics and he had such a deep knowledge of politics and international relations and international affairs and even in Nigerian political economy.


"He wrote several articles and books and he was always very keen to share them. I think that clearly, the Alaafin of Oyo was somebody I believe that the monarchy hid away from most of Nigeria just in terms of his intellectual depth and his knowledge."


On the late Alaafin's impact on his community and beyond, the VP said "I want to thank God that he was such an incredible and impactful leader and he didn’t just impact Yoruba land or Oyo State, but he impacted the entire nation.


"Today we celebrate a man who has lived a life of impact, who has reigned as a monarch, not just royalty, but he has royally proved that you can make tremendous impact in the lives of common people and in the life of your nation even while serving as a monarch in just one portion, one part of your country. I think his impact has been nationwide."


The Vice President then expressed his condolences to "the family, government and the people of Oyo State" on the passing of one of the leading monarchs in the country.


The late monarch passed away on Friday, April 22 at the age of 83 after ruling as Alaafin of Oyo for 52 years.




Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
25th April, 2022

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

WE NEED LEADERS WHO DEEPLY CARE ABOUT THE COMMON MAN, SAYS OSINBAJO IN IBADAN

VP adds: President Buhari gave me every opportunity to serve

Describes Oba Balogun Ali-Iwo Okunmade II a great gift to Ibadan, Nigeria

_*Olubadan to VP: In God’s name, you will be President of Nigeria

Nigeria needs leaders who deeply care about the common man and the progress of the nation, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this today in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, when he paid a courtesy call at the palace of His Imperial Majesty, the Olubadan of Ibadan, Dr. Sen. Lekan Balogun Ali-Iwo Okunmade II, ahead of his interaction with APC Stakeholders in Oyo State.

On arrival in Ibadan, the Vice President received a rousing reception right from the airport and on the streets by excited residents and people in the State, who came out to welcome him.

Coming after the VP had declared his intention to contest the 2023 presidential election under the platform of the APC last week Monday, Prof Osinbajo intimated the Monarch of his intention to run for president under the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Later the Vice President interacted with APC party leaders and delegates in Oyo State at an impressive event where his speech was often interrupted with singing as the audience kept bursting out in festive renditions of different political lyrics welcoming the VP's emergence and expressions of support for him.

According to him, "in the 7 years that I have been involved, because the President considered it the right thing to do and, in his generosity, and openness, he gave me every opportunity to serve including sensitive international assignments.

"As you know, I also acted as President during certain periods when the President was away and everything I learnt as acting President has prepared me to run as President of our country.

"God doesn’t make mistakes. God is deliberate in everything He does and by giving me all of these opportunities to understand governance for myself at the highest level of our country, all of it was not just so that I can sit down and write a memoir, no, it was to come handy one day and I believe the time has come.

"I believe that the time has come and I have the responsibility to my country, to you, to all our children and the coming generations to give all of what I have learnt, everything I have learnt, all of the services to be able to give it to our country. To serve our country faithfully and honestly is my intention.

"One advantage I would have is that on day one, I can hit the ground running because I know what it takes."

There were other speakers including Senator Teslim Folarin, Chief Niyi Akintola, SAN, Chief, Dr. Jacob Tilley-Gyado and the APC Chairman in Oyo State Hon. Isaac Ajiboye Omodewu who all expressed support for the Vice President’s aspiration. For instance, according to Akintola "when it comes to the candidacy of Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, there are no factions at all."

Speaking earlier at the courtesy call on the Olubadan, the Vice President told him "I have followed you very closely. I think that one of the most important things is that the country needs people, those who have feelings for the common person. The views of the left of centre, people who deeply care about the common man.

While praising the Olubadan for always being a lover of the common people, even before he ascended the throne, he said " no matter in whatever shape of form, even as Kabiyesi, you are still going to be the Kabiyesi of the common man, Kabiyesi of the people.”

According to the VP, the people of Ibadan are not only blessed with an intellectual but one who cares for the people.

“As the Olubadan, Your Royal Majesty, you are a great gift to the people of Ibadan and also to us as a nation. I pray that your years will be very long and that all the people of this great city, kingdom will feel the impact, and that they will all know that you are someone who cares about them,” he noted.

While informing him formally of his intention to run for President, the VP told the monarch that he also came to pay his respect.

“As you know, on April 11, 2022, I declared my intention to run for the presidency of our great land under the flag of our party, the great party, the All Progressives Congress. I did so while taking into account the fact that our country needs all of those who are willing to serve it to the best of their capacity and knowledge.

‘With great humility and sincerity, I come to your majesty, that after serving about seven years as Vice President, and also as acting, under our President, President Muhammadu Buhari, who truly gave me every opportunity; he opened up doors in a way that most deputies may not have experienced, and entrusting a lot to my care, including very sensitive positions.

“After all of that, I felt that it would be the right thing to do, to make that experience available to the people of our country. By the grace of God and the will of the people, if I am voted in as the President come 2023, I believe that there is so much to do. The desire of our hearts is that our country will be much greater and will be able to attain all of the great potentials of our people.”

Describing the monarch as a “father of all,” Prof. Osinbajo thanked the Monarch for the warm reception, noting that he will always covet the Olubadan’s “prayers and good wishes all the time.”

He added, “you can be sure that wherever I am and in whatever situation I am, I hold you in the highest esteem, I will always continuously support whatever it is that you want to do, either for yourself or the great people of Ibadan.”

In his remarks, the Olubadan described the Vice President as “a wonderful human being, a wonderful person,”

“Hopefully, in God’s name, you will be President of Nigeria,” he told the VP, adding that “may Allah grant you success on what you have in mind, may Allah support you. I can spend the next two hours just praying for you.”

Ibadan High Chiefs present also expressed their support for the Vice President's aspirations declaring that "we are with you."

The Vice President who travelled with a number of National Assembly members from Abuja was received by the Deputy Governor of Oyo State Engr. Rauf Olaniyan at the Ibadan airport. The Deputy Governor also joined the VP for the visit to the Olubadan.

Members of the National Assembly with the Vice President besides Folarin included Senators Adamu Bukkachuwa, Kola Balogun, Representatives Fatahu Muhammad, Odebunmi Olusegun, Shehu Saleh Rijau and Honourable Karu Simon.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
22nd April 2022

ATTACKING OSINBAJO: THE LIES THAT COME OUT OF THEIR LAZY MOUTHS.

By Mustapha Ogunsakin, award winning journalist

There's this religious victimization card played by some people that I found amusing. Rather than address issues on their merits, people like Kperoogi and the other chap in MURIC tend to play religious card that border on intellectual laziness. The recent attack on Vice President Yemi Osinbajo SAN is one of such. They accused Osinbajo of favoring Christians, particularly members of his church, RCCG. They also accused him (Osinbajo) of betraying their Muslim brother, Asiwaju Tinubu, forgetting conveniently that Senator Remi, Tinubu's wife is a Pastor of the same RCCG.

If both had bothered to do a little research on Osinbajo, if they had done their homework well on him, maybe they would have come out with more reasonable and believable criticisms.

All his life, Osinbajo has served Muslim bosses and he has never had any problem with any of them. Former Attorney General of the Federation, Bola Ajibola SAN, who he served as Special Adviser. Asiwaju Tinubu he served as Attorney General in Lagos, and President Buhari who he is serving presently as Vice President. Of all these three distinguished Statesmen, it is Tinubu they are accusing him of betraying.

They spew lies from the pit of hell! Obviously, both Kperoogi and the MURIC. guy do not know Yemi Osinbajo. Osinbajo's Chief of Staff, Ade Abdulrahman Ipaye is a practising and devout Muslim. Ipaye has been with him since 1999 when he served as Osinbajo's Special Assistant at the Lagos State Ministry of Justice. Ipaye later served as Special Adviser to the Governor under Fashola, and later as Attorney General. When Osinbajo became Vice President, he took Ipaye along as Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, serving in the office of Osinbajo. Ipaye is a student of Osinbajo and they have stayed loyal together for years!

Osinbajo' Private Secretary at the Ministry is one Mr Bakare is also a devout Muslim. He served Osinbajo for eight years. Osinbajo sponsored him to Hajj and also sponsored his University Education. Today, he holds a Bsc in Accounting. How then can he be a Muslim hater?

In 2005, President Olusegun Obasanjo invited Osinbajo to take appointment as the Attorney General of the Federation after Chief Akin Olujimi SAN left office. Obasanjo saw the sterling qualities and performance that Osinbajo had as AG Lagos. The President without informing Tinubu offered the post to Lagos AG. The first thing Osinbajo did was to inform his principal, Tinubu, who gave him a free hand to take his decision.

Osinbajo made a request to Obasanjo: "Release Lagos Council funds." Don't forget that as A.G Lagos, Osinbajo it was who filed cases against the FG for withholding Lagos Local Government funds after Tinubu created LCDAs. Obasanjo replied that Osinbajo should first take the appointment and then advise him as Attorney General of the Federation on the matter. Osinbajo went underground and for weeks, Obasanjo could no longer reach him. It was obvious to the President that Osinbajo deliberately avoided him. He went on to appoint Chief Bayo Ojo SAN as his AGF and Minister of Justice. Osinbajo rejected the position of AGF and Minister of Justice and stayed with Tinubu! Nobody complained then.

Osinbajo not only stood with Tinubu, he stayed loyal to Lagos State. He did not betray Tinubu then but now when it is convenient for them, some political and religious bigots are shouting betrayal!
Everyone knows that if you want to hear the story of how your father met your mother, join politics. But if you must criticize Osinbajo, do so on valid facts! Not lazy, religious and political lies that reveal your foolishness and hatred for a man who is doing his best to make his country and people better.

STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE

WHY I AM RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT, BY OSINBAJO

*My experiences, insights, opportunities must be used for Nigeria and Nigerians, VP adds



In the past seven years, I have served as Vice President under a true Nigerian patriot, a servant of the nation in war and peace, and a man of integrity, President Muhammadu Buhari.

We have, together, worked through some of the most difficult times in the history of our Nation, but we have remained focused on securing the country, providing infrastructure and growing our economy.

As stipulated by the Nigerian Constitution, our tenure will end next year.

In this period of seven years, I have served the government in several capacities, and have, at the direction of Mr. President, represented our country in sensitive high level international engagements. I have been to practically all local governments in Nigeria. I have been in markets, factories, schools, and farms. I have been in agricultural, mining and oil producing communities; in the Delta, in Kebbi, Enugu, Borno; Rivers, Plateau and Ondo; & in all other States of the federation, listening to the diverse experiences and yearnings of our people.

I have visited our gallant troops in the North East and our brothers and sisters in the IDP camps. I have felt the pain and anguish of victims in violent conflicts, terrorist attacks, flooding, fire and other disasters.

I have been in the homes of many ordinary Nigerians in various parts of the country. I have sat with our techprenuers in Lagos, Edo, and Kaduna, with our Nollywood and Kannywood actors; with our musicians, from Lagos, Onitsha, and Kano. And I have spoken to small and large businesses.

I stood where they stood and sat where they sat. I know their hopes, aspirations and fears; and I believe that in those hopes and aspirations are the seeds for the great Nigeria that we all desire.

I believe that the very reason why the Almighty God gave me these experiences, these insights, and these opportunities, is that they must be put to the use of our country and it’s great peoples.

Which is why I am today, with utmost humility, formally declaring my intention to run for the Office of the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, on the platform of our great party, the All Progressives Congress.
If by the grace of God and the will of the people, I am given the opportunity, then I believe that first, we must complete what we have started;

*radically transforming our security and intelligence architecture,

*completing the reform of our justice system focusing on adequate remuneration and welfare of judicial personnel,

*ensuring justice for all and the observance of rule of law,

*rapidly advancing our infrastructure development, especially power, roads, railways and broadband connectivity,

*providing an excellent environment for businesses to thrive,

*taking the agriculture revolution to the next level especially mechanization and developing the farm to table value chain

*making sure that the government, its agencies and regulators serve the business community,

*creating a tech economy that will provide jobs for millions;

*enhancing our Social Investment Programme to a full scale social welfare scheme,

*completing the promise of lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty within this decade,
*completing the task of ensuring that all Nigerians, male and female, attend school,

*reforming our educational system for relevance to the challenges of this century,

*completing the task of universal health coverage for all,

and

*strengthening the capacity of States and Local Governments to deliver on their respective mandates.

Above all, front and centre of our efforts will be the provision of jobs and opportunities for our young people.

I now most solemnly and respectfully seek the support of fellow Nigerians everywhere in this land, and the diaspora, young and old, male and female, in the great and exciting journey that we have ahead of us.

We will, working together, establish by the grace of God, the Nigeria of our dreams in a few short years. We will build on the foundation laid by our predecessors. We will need to move, with much speed, intentionality, and perseverance, towards the vision of a prosperous, stable, and secure nation.

I am convinced beyond doubt that we have the creativity, the courage, the talent, and the resources to be the foremost black nation on earth. Let us now birth the expectations of greatness conceived generations before us.

Let us build a Nigeria where the man from Nnewi sees the man in Gusau as his brother, where the woman in Warri sees the woman in Jalingo as her sister, where the love of our nation burns alike in the hearts of boys and girls
from Gboko to Yenogoa. Where everywhere, in this land, is home for everyone, where our diversities, tribes and faiths unite, rather than divide us.

Let our tribes become one tribe; the Nigerian tribe, where all are treated fairly, justly and with respect. Where all are given equal access to the abundant opportunities that God has bestowed on this nation. It's time.

God bless and keep our Republic and its great people.

Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN
Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria
Monday April 11, 2022

Although not many people take him serious but United States-based Nigerian professor, Farouk Kperogi has earned for himself a reputation of one with undisguised bile, not just for anything Buhari but also the nation, and he has added a few more enemies to his long list.

Recently, Kperogi has become a self-appointed enemy of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and he's relishing the appetite of his equally undiscerning and mischievous readers with fabricated falsehood.

Against all intents and logics, even when it has been disputed by people who should know, Kperogi kept alleging that Osinbajo, should he be trusted with power and Nigeria's president, will Christianize Nigeria.

Laughable as this sounds, it beats imagination that anyone would get drowned in Kperogi's narrative, with his unscholarly eavesdropping and beer parlour gists, and when he did at all, clinging only to hearsays.

However, against all his pretences and disguise, the hatchet writer has been unveiled to be doing the bidding of the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi.

Amaechi, who eyes the presidential ticket of the All Progressives Congress, APC, this newspaper can reliably gathered, is bankrolling Kperogi to advance vicious and damaging propaganda to tarnish the reputation of the Vice President with the intent to sow hatred against him from among the Northern population.

The plot, this newspaper learnt, was to twist the faith of Osinbajo, who is a pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG, and recent creation of the political directorate by the Church, to blackmail the Vice President.

Kperogi's paymaster, has for some time detailed a team to search out Prof Osinbajo to see the possibility of nailing him on corruption allegations, but having failed to lay hand on any of such, resolved that turning the Northern population against him would be fait accompli to make him unattractive to the Muslim voters.

Although he has not yet declare interest to run for the 2023 presidential election, notwithstanding, the Vice President has become a subject of bitter attack from contenders within the ruling party and beyond, especially from those that believe that his interest would pose a major threat to their chances should he throw in the hat to contest. And Kperogi has become a willing tool.

Political observers believe that the Osinbajo campaign team has to brace up for more attacks from the likes of Kperogi.

This, they opined will get messier and fierce as the chances of Osinbajo become brighter, so also will the desperation to rein him in and jerk him to surrender, regardless of how unfounded the allegations might be.

The Minister's handlers had narrowed down on Kperogi's choice for the hatchet job sensing that he would not be easily suspected, in view of his past attacks on President Muhammadu Buhari with whom he was similarly fixated in the past.

STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE

*WHY WE MUST IMPROVE GOVERNANCE & INSTITUTIONAL CAPACITY, BY OSINBAJO*

_*VP declares open 21st meeting of National Council on Development Planning*_

_*Commissions Ebonyi State projects during 2 -day visit*_

_*Umahi commends VP’s loyalty to President, love for Ebonyi*_

Governance and institutional capacity to properly manage resources of nations hold the ace to the prosperity of the citizenry, and this is why authorities must continue to improve them at all times, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this Friday in his remarks at the opening of the 21st meeting of the National Council on Development Planning (NCDP) held in Abakaliki, adding that governance and institutional capacity account for the difference between performing and poorly performing economies.

The theme of the meeting attended by members of the Federal and States' Executive Councils was "Good Governance and Institutional Capacity: Pathways to Sustainable National Development."

The VP spoke at the NCDP meeting during a 2-day official visit to Ebonyi State, where he also commissioned a number of projects executed by the state government.

On arrival at the Akanu Ibiam Airport, Enugu, enroute to Ebonyi State, the Vice President was warmly received at the airport by Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and other state government officials.

He later arrived Abakaliki in Ebonyi via a Chopper, where he received a rousing reception by the people of the State and was welcomed by the State Governor, Engr. Dave Umahi and his deputy, Dr. Eric Kelechi Igwe, among other senior state government officials.

According to the Vice President, "it is the lack of good governance and weak institutional capacity in the poorer and less performing economies that largely account for the difference between the poor and rich countries."

"The way that public institutions and agencies perform public affairs and manage public resources, and also how they manage the participation of citizens, and ensure equity and the rule of law, are what makes the difference between the poor and rich, performing and non performing countries," the VP added.

Making reference to Japan, South Korea and Singapore as countries that still perform better than the resource-rich nations of the world, Prof. Osinbajo said, "how public institutions function is largely determined by institutional capacity. This is not merely having a well educated and well motivated workforce, but systems that are and can enforce transparency and accountability.

"Where accountability is weak or non-existent and poor performance or misconduct have no real consequences; poor performance then becomes systemic.

"The result of poor governance is that delivery of public goods is ineffective, every public service is affected, whether it is collection of taxes, or delivery of social investment programmes, public education, health services, obtaining trade facilitation approvals or just passports or drivers licence, public running of power services or delivery of petroleum products."

Speaking further, Prof. Osinbajo noted that "poor governance and institutional capacity mean a weak economy, private sector performs sub-optimally because the business environment is hostile, so fewer jobs are created, housing stocks may fall where private people do not build houses for rent, because when tenants fail to pay rent they can remain in the accommodation for years without paying rent because the court system is too slow and they cannot be legally evicted while the court process subsists."

He urged the meeting to come up with solutions to the country’s development challenges, stating that "every one of these problems is human. They can be solved by human beings. Every country that chooses to solve its governance and institutional problems has, in effect, chosen to develop and prosper."

He cautioned against acts of dishonesty, noting that "lack of transparency and making bureaucratic corruption the norm" will lead to "backwardness and poverty of the majority."

The Vice President also recommended that "synergy amongst all tiers of government remains of paramount importance at this critical time when we continue to face the challenges of recovery from the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic, now compounded by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war."


In his remarks, Governor David Umahi thanked the Vice President for his commitment and loyalty to President Muhammadu Buhari, as well as his love for the State, noting that "there is a certain ecstasy that follows you whenever you are in Ebonyi State."

Present at the meeting were the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Mr. Clem Agba; Special Adviser to the President on Economic Matters, Dr. Adeyemi Dipeolu; the Speaker of Ebonyi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonnaya; the Chief Judge of Ebonyi State; Hon Justice Elvis Ngene; traditional rulers, among other senior government officials. The Finance Minister, Hajia Zainab Ahmed, also joined virtually.

Some of the State government projects the Vice President commissioned on Friday in Ebonyi State include the New Government House Chapel; the Abakaliki-Enugu Expressway (Ishieke); the Concrete Dualised Mammy Market-Timber Shade Road (with street Lights) at Nkwegu Primary School; Dr. Sam Egwu Twin Flyover; and the Ishieke-Mile 50 dualised Concrete Road, Ezzamgbo.

The VP also inspected the St. Margaret Umahi International Market, where he was greeted to loud cheers by excited traders and residents.

Also on Friday evening, the Vice President commissioned the Shopping Mall, which he observed could match "any mall anywhere in the world in grandeur and beauty," as well as the Christian Ecumenical Centre, where a gala night was hosted in his honour.

The VP highlighted the socioeconomic benefits of the projects he commissioned in the state, and commended Governor David Umahi for his efforts.

At the Gala night in his honour on Friday evening, the VP observed that Ebonyi State, as "the Salt of the Nation" has been "made more savoury" by the activities of the Governor.

"An hour ago, we walked down the President Muhammadu Buhari Light Tunnel located here at the Akanu Ibiam junction, and we walked through a dazzling avenue of lights to the Mall," he said.

Prof. Osinbajo thanked Governor Umahi for "his kindness and unfailing courtesies at all times" , as well as "the government and people of Ebonyi State for their hospitality and warmth."

Also on Saturday, the Vice President commissioned and inspected other projects, including the David University of Medical Sciences, in Ohaozara; the 12km Okposi-Uburu Road, and St. Joseph Umahi Flyover, also in Uburu. He also inspected the Ebonyi Industrial cluster in Uburu.

The VP has since returned to Abuja today.

*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*9th April, 2022*6

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE


AFTER FG LAUNCHED SOLAR HYBRID PLANTS IN FOUR UNIVERSITIES, THE FIFTH IN UNIMAID READY SOON - OSINBAJO

*Previous Plants in Federal Universities in Sokoto, Kano, Makurdi & Ndufu-Alike

*VP commends Indimi, donor of International Learning Center to UNIMAID

*Says "his positive traits, habits can be multiplied for the benefit of our nation."


A 12MW Solar Hybrid Power Plant for the University of Maiduguri and its teaching hospital is nearing completion, just as the Buhari Administration will continue to invest in the nation’s tertiary institutions to achieve greater results, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this in his remarks on Thursday at the formal handover of the Muhammadu Indimi International Learning Centre to the management of the University of Maiduguri.

The Centre which was built and donated to the university by a foremost businessman and philanthropist, Muhammadu Indimi, was commissioned by President Muhammdu Buhari in December 2021.

According to the VP, “the Buhari Administration is continuing to invest in our Universities. UNIMAID is in phase 2 of the Energizing Education Program funded through the Rural Electrification Agency.

The Federal Government’s Energizing Education Programme is geared towards delivering on several critical policies and objectives of the administration including improving power supply around the country by providing solar hybrid plants in 37 Federal Universities and 7 teaching hospitals.

“The Federal Government through REA (in partnership with the World Bank) is in advanced stages of establishing a 12MW Solar Hybrid Power Plant to power UNIMAID and its Teaching Hospital.

“The project will also include a training centre and is modelled around similar projects that have already been completed in Bayero University Kano (BUK), the Federal University of Agriculture Makurdi (FUAM), Usman Danfodio University Sokoto (UDUS) and the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike (FUNAI),” the VP added.

Citing the rise to fame of Nigerian tech companies to justify the need to invest more in the education of Nigerians, the VP recalled the Nigerian owned tech firms that have become Unicorns, saying “these companies achieved the coveted Unicorn status despite the perceived disadvantages of our region globally. Imagine what we could do if we have a more committed focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) programs.

“Nigeria could conceivably dominate the technology space as we dominate in Nollywood and the music scene. The knowledge economy of the 21st century emphasizes the need for all of our children to have education so we can have many more unicorns.”

Speaking further, the Vice President said, “barely two weeks ago Governor Zulum, former Governor Shettima and I were celebrating the 5th year of the establishment of the Learning Centre here in Maiduguri. We saw children who barely five years ago were in IDP camps, many without parents. As of that day, they were teaching us how to write codes, how to program robots, and develop websites and other products of their education in technology. Such is the power of education.”

Prof. Osinbajo also disclosed plans by the Federal Government to augment grid supply and protect against energy sabotage in Maiduguri with the deployment of 30MW of solar power to critical areas of Maiduguri, Borno State.

The Vice President said “through the Economic Sustainability Plan approved by Mr. President, NNPC, Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and Yola DISCO are partnering with my Office and the Office of the Governor of Borno to deploy 30MW of Solar Power to critical areas of Maiduguri.

“This will be 6 Solar Plants of 5MW each to augment grid supply and protect against energy sabotage. Let me also say that the efforts of the Federal Government and private persons can only be truly useful where the State government is serious about the development.”

Commending Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State for the leadership that has transformed infrastructure in the State, the VP said “by his great achievements here, he has shown exactly that seriousness. He has built several mega schools, massive commercial centres, over 8000 housing units, the first flyover in Borno State, but what is most heartwarming is that all of these are at very low cost.”

Regarding the host, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, Prof. Osinbajo said “his concern for others and his passion to support others is evident not only all-around Maiduguri but also across Nigeria, around Africa and internationally as well.

“We are proud of his achievements and will continue to look to him to mentor, guide and teach others in business and philanthropy so his positive traits and habits can be multiplied for the benefit of the citizens of our nation and beyond.”

Continuing, the VP said “his actions show that the investment he most cherishes is investing in people. This donation from Alhaji Indimi is part of a broader portfolio of investments in people that he has spearheaded.

“The project in Bama some years back providing housing to IDPs was especially timely given the upsurge in the needs of IDPs as the situation in Borno has evolved through the efforts of this administration.”

The VP noted that "education is the spark behind every girl and boy child to maximize their individual potentials. Alhaji Indimi’s work through his foundation continues to focus on education as a core area."

According to him, "Alhaji Indimi’s choice of education as a core area for his philanthropic efforts is an inspired one. Knowledge is the key to lifting millions out of poverty, it is the lifeblood of economic empowerment and development, it is the guarantee of a better life for our people.”

Besides Governor Zulum and Alhaji Indimi, dignitaries at the event included Deputy Governor of Borno, Umar Usman Kadafur; Senators Ali Ndume and Abubakar Kyari; the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai; members of the Borno State House of Assembly and Executive Council, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri, Prof. Aliyu Shugaba, among others.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
7th April 2022

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

OSINBAJO GREETS ALL MUSLIMS AS RAMADAN SEASON KICKS OFF

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, has sent greetings and prayers to all Muslim faithfuls as this years Ramadan Fasting season begins.

According to him "as another new moon ushers in the blessed month of Ramadan, I wish to felicitate with the Muslim community on yet another opportunity to witness this holy month of devotion, sacrifice, compassion, generosity and selflessness.

"This is a time for personal deep reflection and service to community. I urge you to be guided by the lessons of Ramadan, while renewing your spiritual connection, to offer prayers for peace and continued prosperity in our nation. May God accept all your acts of sacrifice and piety."

Ramadan Mubarak!

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
2nd April 2022

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT BUHARI HAILS VICE PRESIDENT YEMI OSINBAJO AT 65, EXTOLS HIS LOYALTY AND RESOURCEFULNESS

On behalf of the Federal Executive Council, Government and people of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari warmly felicitates with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo on the auspicious occasion of his 65th birthday, March 8, 2022, joining family, friends and associates to celebrate the man of many parts.

President Buhari notes the worthy contributions of the Vice President to the development of the country as a lawyer, scholar, administrator and pastor, working selflessly and sacrificially to bring government closer to the people, and placing the people at the centre of governance by regularly advocating policies that support human development.

As the lawyer and scholar turns 65, the President affirms that his loyalty and dedication to duty have been most exemplary, especially in supervising the economy, which involves regular interface with heads of public and private institutions, and other government structures to ensure synergy and harmony that put the welfare and wellbeing of all Nigerians first.

President Buhari extols Vice President Osinbajo’s courage, humility and resourcefulness, praying that the Almighty God will continue to grant him the strength, wisdom and good health to serve the nation and humanity.

Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)

STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE

*INTEGRITY, HONESTY, TRANSPARENCY MAKE ECONOMIC SENSE, DISHONESTY UNDERMINES ENTERPRISE - OSINBAJO*

_*VP receives pioneer cohort of Public Leadership programme, says a well-trained public service can boost national development_

_*Aig-Imoukhuede commends VP, narrates how the programme was facilitated_


In the age of digital technology and digital economy, it is imperative that Nigeria develops a well-trained, knowledgeable and well-motivated public servants for effective service delivery and excellent performance.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, stated this on Thursday evening when he received at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, 49 graduands of the pioneer cohort of the Africa Initiative for Governance (AIG) & Oxford University's Blavatnik School of Government (AIG-BSG) Public Leadership programme, sponsored by the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation.

The inaugural in-country programme for talented, mid-career public servants, a partnership between the Federal and State governments, with the AIG and the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, lasted for about seven months. The participants were drawn from the civil service at national and subnational levels.

According to the Vice President, it is vital to provide cutting-edge training to public servants because “once public goods cannot be delivered effectively, development suffers, the commons are all at risk and the overall quality of life of the people is undermined.”

On the essence of developing Nigeria’s human resources, especially in the public sector, Prof. Osinbajo stated that “our governments have never been short of ideas, policies or roadmaps. Indeed, we have some of the best written and most insightful policies on practically all issues…but we sometimes fall flat on implementation. The reason is the quality of the human resources that we deploy in the public sector.

“Unlike in the private sector, where usually the profit motive makes it imperative to provide relevant and cutting-edge training to ensure that staff are well equipped to deliver on targets and KPIs, the public service usually has traditionally taken an approach, the result being a bureaucracy unable to develop, but more importantly deliver on government initiatives and programmes.”

The VP then spoke on the need to build values of integrity, honesty and transparency in public service.

“Recognizing that ensuring integrity in the work place is not a merely a moral issue, it is an existential issue for the country itself. Why do systems anywhere in the world uphold basic notions of honesty, transparency and integrity? It is because it makes economic sense; dishonesty undermines the entire enterprise,” he stated.

“We must also understand and disseminate our rules on governance in such a way as to make it clear that petty or grand corruption kills progress and will destroy the nation’s best,” he added.

The VP further noted that the AIG-BSG programme was crucial to developing the country’s public service, especially with global changes and technology.

According to Prof. Osinbajo, it is crucial to have “a bureaucracy that fully appreciates how to think, act and plan in a world so completely transformed in the last two decades, that almost every old assumption about commerce, lifestyle, gender issues, political ideology are now being upturned or, at least, being seriously challenged.

“The old notions of official secrecy, the sanctity of government information and communication are now cracking as it becomes easier to put out even hard copy public information for mischief. Every device has a camera; electronically stored information can be also be hacked. What are the new protocols that we must now adopt, what safe guards must be put into regulations?"

He further said: “some may remember the arguments back and forth about the regulation of crypto currency. Writing the rules for new phenomena, stuff that the whole world is trying to grapple with and doing so quickly and with understanding are the types of challenges that today’s public officer faces."

The Vice President commended the programme’s curriculum on strengthening public organizations, especially the question of goal setting, values and gauging criteria for high performance.

He noted that these were equally important as “the public service, especially regulatory agencies, generally tend to see their roles as policing or revenue generation.”

The VP emphasized that their real role must be "how to make life easier for the private sector, small and large businesses, individuals, those who create the jobs, create wealth and lift millions out of poverty. High Performance must then be determined by fidelity to those values.”

In his remarks, the Founder and Chairman of the AIG, as well as the Foundation, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede thanked the Vice President for inspiring, supporting and encouraging the Initiative from the start, especially during the period of teething challenges.

Aig-Imoukhuede said: “One day, I sought audience with His Excellency and I shared with His Excellency our plans and where we were. The Vice President said that, ‘I’m fully in support, but you need to change strategy a little.’”

At this point in time, the Federal Civil Service was thinking through a strategic reform.

He narrated how the VP told him, “’let me bring the Head of Service into the same room as you and have a conversation, and let us see what it would bring.’ Within a week or two, that meeting took place."

Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede once again expressed appreciation for the VP's behind the scene facilitation of the programme.

“I’ll like to really thank you for giving us the confidence, for encouraging us and making sure that we didn’t give up. But most importantly, I’d like to thank you for your action that has made all of the cooperation between the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation and the Nigerian government possible. And please continue to support us, encourage us; continue to call me to account whenever you see me.”

On the overall objectives of the Programme, he noted that, “there is no nation that can build itself and perform for its citizen without a strong and virile public service. We have seen this when the Nigerian public service operated at its best, just prior to independence and in the period subsequent to that. We have also seen at the sub-national level, where investments in public service have been made and we have seen the impact. So, we have dedicated ourselves to try to change this narrative, and create a situation where we can make our public sector, which encompasses brilliant men and women, shine so they can sparkle like the public sectors of other countries.”

*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*4th March, 2022*

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE


LET US WORK TOGETHER TO DETER COUPS IN WEST AFRICA, OSINBAJO TELLS UK, EU, OTHER GLOBAL BODIES

*VP also receives Worldwide Leader of Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints from US at Presidential Villa

*Urges faith-based organisations to preach unity among Nigerians

Following the tough stance by leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) against recent coups d’etat in the sub-region, the cooperation of the international community including other global, regional bodies and financial institutions will concretize the efforts against unconstitutional changes of government and deter coup plotters.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, stated this late Monday when he received on a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa, the United Kingdom’s Minister for Africa, Vicky Ford, MP who was accompanied by British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing.

According to the Vice President, “there is a lot of attention being paid to coups d’etat going on, especially in the West African sub-region, I think it is important that we take a closer look at how to prevent and deter coups detat and adventurers of various kinds who want to take over governments by force.

“One of the critical things which have been discussed at various ECOWAS meetings is how to cooperate with the rest of the world, bodies such as the UN, EU and some of the Development Finance Institutions to give our sanctions more teeth.”

“So, we think that if there is some cooperation at the multilateral level, we might be able to deter some of these coups. I think that it is an issue that we should engage even more on because it is troubling that one after the other, countries are experiencing coups detat,” the VP added.

Speaking on the government’s efforts in the area of energy transition and economic development, the Vice President restated Nigeria’s commitment to the post COP26 agenda while calling on the wealthier countries in the international community to fulfil their obligation, especially in funding gas as a transition fuel.

He commended the United Kingdom’s acknowledgement of Nigeria’s Economic Sustainability Plan, among other efforts to ensure growth in the economy and foster prosperity among the people.

Earlier in her remarks, the UK Minister for Africa, Ford, recalled the cordial relationship that exists between Nigeria and the UK, noting the need for improved collaboration in the areas of trade and investment, and green energy, among others.

She commended the excellent job done by the Buhari Administration with the Economic Sustainability Plan which has ensured a positive growth trajectory of the economy.

In another development, the Vice President also received at the Presidential Villa, a delegation from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, led by its global leader, Elder Todd Christofferson who is based in the United States of America.

At the meeting, while welcoming the delegation of the global Christian denomination, Prof. Osinbajo urged faith-based organisations to speak more for the unity of the country and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.

“I appreciate the social service works that the church (i.e the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) is doing in the area of clean water, immunization, and several other things. For faith-based organisations, it is an article of faith that you must contribute to the development of society.

“We need to also speak a bit more about the unity of men and women across the country regardless of their faith and ethnicity. We are at a time in our country where this message is very important. The message of unity, the message of saying that nations are built around people who believe in God and those who do not.”

On his part, Elder Christofferson who was accompanied by church leaders and their spouses from within and outside Nigeria commended the efforts of the Vice President in fostering unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians and noted that the church in Nigeria would, in the coming years, work to contribute to the growth and development aside preaching unity among citizens.

The VP also presided over a board meeting of the Border Communities Development Agency, BCDA, virtually earlier in the morning yesterday.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
22nd February 2022

Furious Raufu

By Kunle Awosiyan

O tuto soke o foju gba

Our hero has betrayed us
Enough of "godfatherism"
He shouts and throws away the virtue he once cherished.

"Bole dogun ko dogun,, bole dija ko dija" Who has betrayed who, the owner of the vision or the instrument of the vision?
Our man does not know or he has forgotten that BAT is the vision and he is just an instrument.

Furious Raufu, now a blunt sword
He can't cut nothing but the air
His sharpness had long gone
In him remains the vulgar languages
Words of hate without weight.

Just like a few of his co-travellers who flew out of the aquatic splendor, he has since found a haven inside the Aso Rock.

From the mountain top, they look down on us furiously with their ambition but sense of vision. They desecrate the vision that once helped their ambitions.

To them, let BAT remain god of Lagos while they lord their mission on the people of Osun
They hate "godfatherism", detest politics of imposition, yet they spit fire to lord their candidate on the people.

Furious Raufu.

Aregbesola's attack on Asiwaju Bola Tinubu because of Osun politics and his needless fight to dethrone Governor Oyetola is like drawing out a dagger to cut through a heart.


It is insidious and devilish. It is quite unfortunate that those who want to be like Tinubu do not possess the brain power of the man.


It is not enough to wanting to be another power centre without having the character and introspection of a leader. Awolowo was not the most educated and oldest among his contemporaries that formed Action Group.

Everyone deferred to Awolowo and accepted his leadership.

The mixed multitudes eventually showed themselves and betrayed Awolowo. It is not surprising that the supposedly closest allies are usually the Judas. Aregbesola has shown his hands and proved that his loyalty is all about having his ways. Oyetola will win the APC Guber primary in Osun on Saturday and will go on to win the general election.

*OSINBAJO TO REPRESENT NIGERIA AT LIBERIA'S BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS*

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, will this morning depart Abuja for Monrovia, Liberia, to represent President Muhammadu Buhari at the formal launch of the year-long commemoration of the country's Bicentennial Anniversary.
 
Prof. Osinbajo will join other leaders across Africa and beyond to grace the event scheduled to hold today at the Samuel K. Doe Stadium in Monrovia.
 
The Vice President will also attend other events later today in Monrovia as part of the Liberian national celebrations.
 
Liberia was founded in 1822 when freed black people started relocating to West Africa from the United States. On July 26, 1847, the country proclaimed its independence and became the Republic of Liberia.
 
Prof. Osinbajo, who will be accompanied on the trip by Minister of State, Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Zubairu Dada; and Special Adviser to the President on Economic Matters, Dr. (Amb.) Adeyemi Dipeolu; is expected back in the country tomorrow, Tuesday, February 15.
 
*Laolu Akande,*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity,*
*Office of the Vice President.*
14th February, 2022

STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE

*EVERY CHILD COUNTS, WE MUST INVEST IN OUR CHILDREN TO GUARANTEE SECURITY, PROSPERITY - OSINBAJO*

_*At-Risk Children Programme now in progress,started in five pilot States, Borno, Sokoto, Gombe, Kaduna & Ekiti_


The only way to guarantee the long-term peace and prosperity of our communities is to invest in our children by providing opportunities for them to thrive and be productive within their chosen paths, thereby giving them hope for a better future. 

These were the words of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, on Thursday during the Stakeholders Summit of the At-Risk Children Programme, ARC-P, at the Statehouse Banquet Hall, Abuja.

Prof. Osinbajo noted that the Federal Government has taken a multi-dimensional approach in addressing the challenges faced by the vulnerable in society, especially children and young people, nationwide, with various intervention programmes.

These include the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy Committee, which was inaugurated by President Muhammadu Buhari with the objective of lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in 10 years. The At-Risk-Children Programme (ARC-P), domiciled in the Office of the Vice President, is one of the initiatives of the Committee.

Speaking at the event themed 'Last Mile interventions for the Vulnerable', Prof. Osinbajo noted that the Programme “is the beginning of a journey to give succour and hope to millions of vulnerable young people.”

“The ARC-P is an important component of the variety of government interventions designed to complement and support existing initiatives of the Buhari administration in dealing with the problems of vulnerable children and young people,” the VP said.

Prof. Osinbajo noted that the central purpose of the At-Risk Children Programme is the idea that every Nigerian child counts, noting that the ARC – P “is aimed at giving a new lease of life to millions of children, who, through no fault of theirs, have found themselves without hope or support."

“A nation will be measured ultimately by how it treats its most vulnerable citizens. We recognize that we cannot make progress as a people, while a significant population of our children – those to whom the future belongs – are left on the margins of society, deprived of the opportunity to discover and fulfill their potential,” he stated.

The VP added that the Programme “will provide a safe space for the mentoring and training of these children, with a specific emphasis on basic literacy and numeracy, health and nutrition, entrepreneurial skills, digital skills, sports and life-skills, among other skills.”

Highlighting other intervention programmes by the Buhari administration, the VP said: “In 2019, the President made two crucial policy statements. The first was the plan of government to lift a hundred million Nigerians out of poverty within a decade. The second was the strict enforcement of the laws on free and compulsory education for all children at the primary level. The President emphasized that it is a criminal offence in Nigeria to fail or refuse to implement the law.   

“In the same year, the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development was established to implement the highly successful Social Investment Programmes of the government, aside from responsibilities for humanitarian, safety and disaster management.

“In 2016, the Rule of Law Advisory Team was established in the presidency. One of the team’s main tasks was to ensure that, following the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, there is an effective coordination of responses to cases of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). Since then, the team has supported the establishment of SGBV Response Teams across the country.”

Aside from the multi-dimensional approach of the Federal Government in addressing these concerns, Prof. Osinbajo called for a holistic collaboration by Government at all levels, Federal, State and Local, to produce more impact; especially since primary, secondary education and healthcare are constitutionally state functions.

The ARC-P, which has kicked off in five pilot States, Borno, Sokoto, Gombe, Kaduna and Ekiti, is also focused on training young, educated but unemployed youths from each of the Local Government Areas (LGA) on basic skills.

These diverse skills, including basic literacy and numeracy, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, vocations, agriculture, sports, life skills, digital skills – are expected to either prepare the target beneficiaries (children of primary age) for school or to enrol the older ones into cooperatives, for the purposes of pursuing their preferred vocations.

Commending the Special Adviser to the President on Social Investment Programmes, and the coordinator of the ARC-Programme, Hajiya Maryam Uwais, and her team, for their passion, hard work and commitment to the project, the Vice President also acknowledged and thanked State Governors of the pilot States.

He also acknowledged development partners, the private sector, civil society, that have identified with ARC-P in what he described as a “renewed effort to positively change the fortunes of youths and children At-Risk across the country.”

The VP further stated that “Local Government Authorities, as well as our religious and traditional institutions, have also been instrumental to the successful take off of the At-Risk-Children Programme.”

“We particularly commend the governors of the pilot states, Borno, Sokoto, Gombe, Kaduna and Ekiti, as well as other State Executives that have indicated interest in joining this multi-stakeholder effort geared towards restoring hope to millions of marginalized young Nigerian citizens all over the country.”

Prof. Osinbajo urged that all efforts by stakeholders across the different levels of government and society “must be aligned to work in tandem, especially because they need to be addressed in a manner that also engages with other deprivations around health and empowerment.”

Present at the event were State Governors: Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Ekiti; Engr. Abdullahi Sule, Nasarawa; and Muhammadu Yahaya, Gombe. There were also members of the Federal Executive Council, federal legislators, heads of MDAs, members of the Diplomatic Corps, development partners, among others.

*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*10th February, 2022*

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE



LEGAL, ELECTORAL PROCESSES MUST ENHANCE DEMOCRACY, SOCIAL JUSTICE, OSINBAJO SAYS AT LAW TEACHERS CONFERENCE



SPEECH DELIVERED BY HIS EXCELLENCY, PROF. YEMI OSINBAJO, SAN, GCON, THE VICE PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA AT THE 53RD CONFERENCE OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LAW TEACHERS THEMED: “LAW, DEMOCRACY AND THE ELECTORAL PROCESS.” AT BAYERO UNIVERSITY KANO (BUK) ON THE 8TH OF FEBRUARY, 2022


PROTOCOLS


Let me begin by thanking the Executive of our Association for the kind invitation to join you at this 53rd law teachers conference. A Law Teachers’ Conference is always a homecoming for me. I started teaching at the Faculty of Law, University of Lagos in November 1981, and for many years attending the Law Teachers’ Conference was always special.

First, because it was the only Conference our university agreed to pay for us to attend, and that was a big deal since my salary was N620 a month. So, I am pleased to be here.

I am not here alone; I have here with me two law lecturers who now work with me: Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, the Special Adviser to the President on Ease of Doing Business who used to teach Law of Contract, Commercial Law and International Economic Law at the University of Lagos and Dr. Balkisu Saidu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Legal, Research & Compliance Matters, who was Associate Professor of Law at Usman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto where she taught Jurisprudence, Nigerian Legal System and Islamic Family Law. Though not here with me today, my Chief of Staff, who is the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Rahman Ade Ipaye, is also a former law teacher.

Your Excellencies, friends and colleagues, the place of the Law Teachers’ Conference is crucial, let me paraphrase parts of my comments at the 50th Anniversary Law Teachers’ Conference in 2018 : “because we, law teachers are the purveyors, custodians and creators of the underlying concepts and foundational premises of legal thought, and the thinkers for our system of law and justice and the profession, our conference has always been our forum for the free and yet deep interrogation of the fundamental ideas and principles that hold society together, the trajectory of the rule of law, law and order, democratic practice, and their current interpretations and efficacy. So, our conference is a time to step back and reflect, in order to come back to the problems with boldness and innovation.”

The theme for this conference – “Law, Democracy and the Electoral Process” – is entirely appropriate and not just because our national elections are imminent. As you would have noticed, democracy has come under attack in our subregion and on our continent in recent times.

Since 2017, there have been 12 military coups in Africa and half of them have occurred since 2020. Last month, the democratically elected government of Burkina Faso was overthrown, earlier Mali and Guinea, while only last week, there was an attempted coup in Guinea-Bissau, that was thankfully repelled.

The recent spate of extra-constitutional disruptions of democratic governance in our region lends an added poignancy and urgency to our reflection on law, democracy and the electoral process.

It is now 22 years since we put away the yoke of dictatorship and took up the reins of democracy. A generation of Nigerians have come of age that have known only civil rule and assume as of right, the power to choose their leaders. This is also the longest stretch of democratic governance in our history.

We have witnessed a series of peaceful transitions of power. This is a huge credit to the democratic sensibilities of our people. Along the way, we are learning valuable lessons that can only make us better practitioners of liberty. We may be in the 22nd unbroken year as a democracy but in the grand scheme of things, our country is still a young democracy. Many of our institutions are still in their infancy and we must carefully guide them into maturity. We recognize that the price of liberty is eternal vigilance.

As one of the oldest democracies in a region that has long been plagued by autocratic and extraconstitutional regimes, democracy itself has now become part of our national exceptionalism. Our gallant armed forces are totally subordinated to civilian command authority and are fully committed to defending our constitutional order against internal and external threats. We have a relatively strong civil society that continues to push for greater accountability and the deepening of democratic practices.

In keeping with our foreign policy tradition, ours has been a clear and strident voice for the promotion of democracy on the continent and have been resolute in condemning extraconstitutional seizures of power.

Historically, we have worked to restore and preserve democracy in places such as Liberia, Sierra Leone and The Gambia. At the same time, the events now happening beyond our borders impose a burden on us to exemplify the highest manifestation of democracy at home so that we can more credibly promote it abroad.

In 2015, we made history when an opposition party defeated the ruling party in a national election and a peaceful transition of power followed. In so doing, we vaulted over a hurdle that we have fallen at in previous attempts at democratic governance. Since then, we have seen more and more elections at the subnational level feature transitions between parties. Certainly, we have witnessed electoral contests in which mere membership of the ruling party is not a guarantee of victory. These are signs of our growth as a democracy. There remains, of course, much room for improvement.

But the overarching or foundational issue is democracy. The notion of the government of the people by the people for the people, and its critical implications. Law and the electoral process must work for the achievement of the most democratic outcomes. Legal or electoral processes must enhance not defeat democracy.

Central to democracy is the will of the electorate demonstrated by voting for candidates of their choice. That right is so central to democracy that it must be protected by electoral laws and judicial interpretation in electoral cases. This means that electoral justice must not be for the candidates alone. Indeed, the principal players, the electorate, must be front and centre of judicial reflection on how to determine electoral cases, the judiciary must be wary of substituting their will for the will of the electorate, they must seek every interpretation that leaves the people with the choice of who they prefer.

The decision of the Supreme Court in the case of APC v. Marafa (SC.377/2019), where the Supreme Court nullified the elections of all candidates of the party, who were resoundingly elected by the electorates in Zamfara State in the 2019 elections on the grounds that the APC’s primaries which produced the candidates that were voted for were invalid.

And, without recourse to the electorates, who had, in the polls rejected all the other candidates of the other political parties, the Supreme Court declared candidates of parties other than the APC as winners of the various offices that were contested for in the February 23 and March 16 general elections.

The court held that the APC votes, cast by the Zamfara State electorates to select their preferred candidates as Governor, Senators, members of the House of Representatives, members of State House of Assembly were all "wasted votes." Why? Because, according to the court, APC did not conduct any valid primary election and as such had no candidates for any of the elections in the State.

So, here was a situation where the party that lost every seat from governorship down to House of Assembly was given all those seats by judicial pronouncement. For the voter, this decision must have been at best puzzling.

First, they had no idea that the candidates were disqualified before voting. Indeed, at least one court had declared the primaries valid and it was on that basis that INEC gave the go-ahead to the candidates to contest.

Second, rather than giving seats to those that the electorate had rejected, ordering a rerun would probably have been more acceptable and fairer to the voters. I agree with my brother A.B. Mahmood, SAN, that there is a real issue of whether the courts have not assumed a larger duty in election cases than was constitutionally intended. I am certain that these issues will benefit from the views of our colleagues in the course of this conference.

Nevertheless, I think it is a testament to our commitment to improving our electoral process that we have an Electoral Bill that is presently in the process of being passed. The Bill itself has been the subject of robust engagement between the government and civil society. And while some have expressed reservations about the time it is taking to enact the new law, we should remember that a truly inclusive democratic deliberative process often takes time. I am confident that the legislation that emerges will be one that reflects a broad consensus between all the stakeholders.

While INEC continues to improve its capacity to conduct credible elections particularly through the deployment of technology, we recognize that democracy is about much more than voting. It is also about constitutionalism, rule of law and respect for civil liberties. We must diligently work to uphold these principles.

Permit me to refer to Section 14 of our Constitution which proclaims, “The Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be a state based on democracy and social justice.” Democracy and social justice are inextricably linked. The insistence that our society must be governed by the rule of law and not the whim of man is the cornerstone of democracy. As law teachers and legal practitioners, we are custodians of this truth. However, democracy cannot endure without social justice.

The pursuit of justice lies at the heart of the quest for the good of society. This makes the legal profession one of the cardinal vocations upon which civilization rests. Indeed, the law is an instrument of pacific social engineering, the end of which is justice. When it is rooted in this postulate, it follows that the law and therefore democracy, are meant to serve beneficial social ends.

More broadly, our idea of social justice also refers to the social and economic rights of the people. These include the right to food, shelter, employment, education and a reasonable national minimum living wage, care for the elderly, pensions, unemployment benefits and welfare for the physically challenged. These bequests are in the 2nd Chapter of the Constitution as part of the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy.

Without social justice, legal justice is ultimately unattainable. The degree to which citizens are in possession of their social and economic rights has a direct impact on the degree of their access to legal services and thence to justice. Our concern as teachers and practitioners of the law therefore must extend beyond the courtroom, beyond the precincts of our legal institutions to the social reality in which these structures exist.

The law is a social construct and makes sense only within a social context. To treat the law as something apart from society, or as a body of technical abstractions is to strip it of meaning. This also fosters alienation between the legal profession and the very people it is meant to serve. Approaching the law simply as an instrument for achieving legalistic justice is grossly inadequate in our circumstances.

We are in an age in which our society must grapple with issues of structural poverty, entrenched inequality, disparities in access to social and economic opportunities, fractured access to justice, and the occasionally abusive conduct of law enforcement institutions – all of which are creating profound radical discontent with the social order.

Notions such as the rule of law are meaningful only in a context in which the law is considered relatable by the public and is deemed consistent with universal aspirations towards an end state of social justice. A society in which an increasing number of people consider themselves alienated from legal institutions or perceive these legal institutions to be incapable of delivering justice for all cannot be stable and prosperous.

Section 17 of our Constitution asserts that “the independence, impartiality and integrity of courts of law, and easy accessibility thereto shall be secured and maintained.” It is significant that the framers of our Constitution enshrined access to justice along with social and economic rights in the Directive Principles and Objectives of State Policy. It indicates that they saw access to justice, the integrity of our justice system and socioeconomic rights as related imperatives.

There is a school of thought that holds that one of the unfinished tasks of our democratization project is to actualize the rights and imperatives enshrined in the Second Chapter of our Constitution. There are also those that promote a rigid distinction between fundamental human rights enshrined in Chapter 4 of our Constitution and the Social and Economic Rights in Chapter 2. In my view, there is truly no irreconcilable dichotomy between political and civil rights, & social and economic rights.

In terms of governance and public policy, the right to the dignity of the human person in Chapter 4 of our Constitution means that citizens are to be fed and sheltered, that they are listened to when they speak and are guaranteed liberty as long as they do not break the law and are entitled to a fair trial when they do. The right to human dignity is the wellspring of efforts to guarantee freedom of speech and the right to vote, welfare programmes that ensure that everyone has food and shelter, and judicial reforms that enable even the most disadvantaged citizens to enjoy equality before the law.

Consequently, the principle of the dignity of the human person implies that governments must be considerate, egalitarian and universal in the sense that they must serve everyone. This understanding has driven interventions such as the Social Investment Programmes which is the most ambitious welfare programme on the continent and our efforts to expand universal health insurance all aimed at ensuring that our most vulnerable citizens are not abandoned to the vicissitudes of fate.

I would say that the postulation of a rigid dichotomy between fundamental human rights and social and economic rights is a retrogressive perception of rights. The progressive vision to which I subscribe holds that poverty and underdevelopment pose a serious obstacle to the full realization of human rights. Indeed, the progressive vision holds that human rights in their fullest sense encompass both civil and political rights as well as economic, social and cultural rights.

Our progress as a democracy must therefore also be prosecuted in terms of the struggle to reduce the basic problems of ill-health, malnutrition, illiteracy, and famine which daily afflict our people. Where social and economic rights are unsecured, people are unable to fully maximize their civil and political rights. For instance, access to qualitative education enhances and enriches the freedoms of expression, thought and conscience. Conversely, pervasive illiteracy can nullify the freedom of the press. In the progressive vision, political rights and socio-economic rights are mutually reinforcing.

Why do these issues matter? Simple, the value proposition of democratic governance is that it delivers the fulfilment of the social contract between the state and citizens. Elections are a means to this end.

In practical terms, therefore, democracy means more than the right and opportunity to freely choose one’s leaders; it means accessible qualitative education to the unlettered, affordable healthcare to the sick, inclusion for the alienated, social mobility for the poor, justice for the wronged and security for the vulnerable. How effectively we deliver on these propositions will determine the growth and endurance of our democracy.

To paraphrase Martin Luther King Jr. we must bend the arc of our democracy towards social justice.

As teachers and practitioners of the legal craft, we should not be afraid of tackling the big conceptual and philosophical questions around the meaning of democracy, but take the lead in shaping the conversations that drive policy and legislation around these issues and in so doing, preserve public confidence in our vocation and in our capacity as a people to self-correct and self-govern.

On this note, let me once more thank my colleagues for extending their kind invitation to me. It is now my singular privilege and pleasure to declare this conference open and I wish you a fruitful deliberation.

Thank you for listening.

Released by:
Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
8th February 2022

2023 Politics And The Emergence Of The Tribe

By Mohammed Abdullahi.

On the 13 February, 2019, just ten days before the Presidential ballots in Nigeria, Alexis Akwagyram wrote an article published by Reuters in which he discussed the seemingly absurd situation of "young voters (voting for) old candidates." In the article in question, Akwagyram concluded that the 2019 elections offered "little hope of change for young people."

Like Akwagyram, many writers have romanticized and fantasized about the possibility of converting the huge youth population in Nigeria to some realistic political advantage. Often, you hear politicians and analysts, especially when they want to 'ginger' young voters, painting a picture of how youth can easily take over the leadership of Nigeria if they could mobilize and form a voting bloc in support of their preferred candidates.

Indeed, Nigerian youth have the advantage of number when it comes to elections. More than half of the registered voters are still under the age of 35, and this explains why many look towards the youth to play a more deliberate and enduring role in the country's leadership recruitment process.

However, you only need to have a glance at the pre-election debates and conversations across social media platforms, where the youth to dominate, to appreciate how badly the political socialization of this critical segment of our population has been contaminated. Having been born into an independent Nigeria, you will expect that any citizen of this country who is still under the age of 50 should not suffer the disease of ethnic politics and tribal bigotry that afflict many of our older compatriots. But politicians, being master hypnotists, have render our youth unthinking and make them ask the wrong questions of those who seek the mandate to determine how good or bad their lives would be.

This is why, without the necessary clairvoyance to interrogate the political leadership and choose the right option, those of us who wear the 'youth' badge without shaking off the prejudice and sentiments that have constantly becloud our sense of judgement at every election season would only continue to bemoan our faith as choristers singing in praise of politicians who exploit our ignorance.


It's to avoid this terrible faith as we approach another election that we must reexamine ourselves and like Chester, the protagonist in Buchi Emecheta's book, The New Tribe, begin a search for our true identity.

That search already begun in Kano on January 15, 2022, a day Nigerians from all parts of the country converged and agreed to be the new tribe that places devotion to Nigeria above any other primordial sentiments.

The true identity of new tribe of Nigerians, which seek to institute excellence in leadership, is that of those who open their minds and rise above the artificial differences promoted by individuals who only seek to exploit the faultlines in our relationship as citizens of Nigeria.


As new tribe, our true identity is built around the mission we've chosen to embarked on, which is to assess those who seek the leadership of our country in order to determine the best suited solely in terms of competence and vision, patriotism and character. Therefore, if your political decision as a voter has ever been about the ethnicity or faith of a candidate; we invite you to join us and embrace a new identity as a new tribe of citizens who prioritize fairness, integrity and, above all, absolute love for our country.

SANWO-OLU GIVES HOPE, OFFERS LIFELINE FOR TWO OUT-OF-SCHOOL GIRLS

…Gov: "These two girls will be under my care and that of the First Lady."

On his way to an official function on Thursday, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu momentarily halted his convoy to attend to a disturbing situation. It was a sight of two underage girls on an errand for a bean cake vendor during school hours.

Time was 11am; the girls were expected to be in school. But, both Amarachi Chinedu, 9, and Suwebat Husseini, 12, were forced to skip school by their parents in order to serve some domestic assistance.

The girls were going to deliver buckets of peeled beans and pepper to a grinder when the Governor sighted them at Anthony Village area. It was a glance that presented a discomforting image for Sanwo-Olu, who revved his convoy to a stop to find out the reason the girls were not in school.

Amarachi’s story left the Governor to shudder throughout the encounter. Her mother is a teacher, but the nine-year-old was not allowed to go to school because her parents could not afford the current session's tuition fees. Amarachi would have to miss a school year because of this reason.

Suwebat’s mother is the bean cake seller for whom the girls were running an errand. Her parents, who are Jigawa State indigenes, relocated to Lagos months back. Suwebat’s four male siblings were all in school at the time she was stopped on the road by the Governor. But her parents preferred she stayed back home to help with some domestic chores.

The decisions taken by girls’ parents, Sanwo-Olu said, could rob the little ones of their innocence, their future and put them at a disadvantage among their peers. The Governor stressed that his encounter with the girls left his heart bleeding.

Coincidentally, the Governor was on his way to formally launch Social Welfare Integrated Programme (SWIP) Initiative - a partnership between Government agencies and the private sector to standardise welfare administration for the vulnerable children, elders and those suffering mental disorder – when he saw the two girls roaming the street at school hours.

Salvaging the situation, Sanwo-Olu, at the scene, told the girls he would personally take up the responsibility for their education and upbringing, promising to enrol them in school to continue with their education. The Governor’s decision had been communicated to the girls’ parents.

He said: “This morning, I had a first-hand experience of what many vulnerable children might be going through in our society. I saw something that made my heart bleed on my way to this function. I saw two little girls - ages 9 and 12 - carrying buckets on their heads to grind pepper at 11am when they were supposed to be in school. I stopped immediately, having seen how vulnerable they are and the risk we are putting them through.

“My encounter with them gave me the opportunity to hear their stories and I have taken it upon myself to ensure that these girls never suffer such fate again. I am not going to leave them alone. Amarachi and Suwebat will go back to school. This is a classic example of what we need to do differently as a society. It is needless to ask what brought their parents to Lagos. We must ensure they are not robbed of their future.

“These two girls will be under my care and that of the First Lady. There are several Amarachi and several Suwebat out there, who will not have this kind of opportunity. Everyone of us can take the same decision and listen to stories of kids who may be vulnerable. If we choose to take up this responsibility as a people and give a voice to the vulnerable, we all can make a difference. There is no better kindness to be done to mankind than giving them a lifetime opportunity.”

Sanwo-Olu advised parents not to break their backs in order to send their wards to expensive schools, noting that there are many Government-run basic and secondary schools in Lagos doing better in imparting quality education than many private schools.

The Governor said his encounter with the girls brought the need to bolster Government’s support to public schools and raise the standards.

He said: “If as a parent you cannot afford to put your children in private school, know that there are public schools that are doing great things. Why would a parent deny a nine-year-old girl an access to education? Yes, we are doing so much in education, but the story of these two little girls shows that there are more to be done.

“Amarachi and Suwebat didn’t ask to be in the circumstance they found themselves in, but it is our responsibility to be able to give them the future they deserve; the opportunity that will make them better children to their family and better citizens of this country.”

Sanwo-Olu called for partnership with development agencies, urging intervention bodies, such as SWIP Initiative, to join hands with the Government to ensure all vulnerable persons in Lagos, including children of school age, get adequate attention needed for their care.

PRESIDENT DELEGATES OSINBAJO TO ECOWAS EXTRAORDINARY SUMMIT ON POLITICAL SITUATION IN BURKINA FASO, MALI & GUINEA

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, departs Abuja this morning for Accra, Ghana to represent Nigeria at an Extraordinary Summit of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government deliberating today on the political situation in Burkina Faso, Mali and Guinea.

The meeting which is coming as part of the resolutions reached at last week’s virtual meeting chaired by Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo, will review the report of the ECOWAS delegation despatched to Quagadougou to meet with the military junta who recently seized power in Burkina Faso.

The summit will be attended by regional leaders who will be considering imposing additional sanctions after the country was suspended from the regional body last week.

Last Monday, soldiers forced the removal of democratically elected President Roch March Kabore from office in a military coup. The military takeover of government in Burkina Faso follows the same occurrence in Mali and Guinea recently.

It would be recalled that the President has been delegating the Vice President to represent Nigeria at a series of ECOWAS leaders' summits on the issues of undemocratic, military takeover of governments in the region.

The Vice President will be accompanied by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Zubairu Dada, Presidential Special Adviser on Economic Matters, Dr. Adeyemi Dipeolu, himself also an Ambassador, and other top Nigerian diplomats. The VP is expected back in Abuja later today.

*Laolu Akande,*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity,*
*Office of the Vice President.*
3rd February 2022.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

GIVE IT TO THE PRESIDENT, HE IS FULLY COMMITTED TO OUR PROGRESS AS A NATION - OSINBAJO

*Catholic Women Organisation of Nigeria visits VP, commends FG, lists Buhari’s achievements


President Muhammadu Buhari is determined to ensure things are done right and he is absolutely committed to the progress of the people and the country according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

He made this declaration when he received a delegation of the Catholic Women Organisation of Nigeria, (CWON) led by their President, Dame Mary Asibi Gonsum at the Presidential Villa, yesterday.

Prof Osinbajo reaffirmed the Buhari Administration’s resolve in ensuring things run smoothly in the country. He stated that “one thing that is certain is that there is a determination on the part of the president to ensure that things are done right.

“That is a genuine commitment. He has spent most of his life in public service at various levels. One thing that is evident is that if there is anyone committed to the progress of this country, he is.”

While addressing the concerns around the challenges in the country, Prof Osinbajo highlighted the role of civic and social leadership in also tackling the issues. His words: “there would be times a country is faced with challenges, it is the leadership and not just political leadership, but I mean civic and religious leaderships such as yourselves who rise in support of the country by way of prayers, encouragement, and admonition.”

The VP expressed his gratitude for the visit by the Catholic women drawn from across the country and the words of encouragement from the delegation.

The leader of the delegation Dame Mary had commended the Federal Government under the leadership of President Buhari lauding “the proactive and far-reaching policies/actions of the government as it affects the fight against corruption, terrorism/insurgency and banditry."

Responding the VP said, “I am pleased you have taken the time to come visit and encourage us because the words you spoke are words of encouragement. Very frequently, we hear criticism, it is encouragement that is often not easy to come by.”

He also commended the Catholic Church and acknowledged their role in the country. “Every one of us is aware of the social and civic role that the Catholic church plays in our nation. This is also evident in the work that you are doing as the Catholic Women Organisation of Nigeria with the schools, hospitals and the various ways the civic and social lives of people in our country have improved. A lot of it is in the efforts of the Catholic Church.”

Speaking further, the President of CWON observed that “the purchase and induction of the super Tucano fighter Jets is an indication of the commitment of this administration to bring to an end, terrorism and banditry in our dear country Nigeria.”

According to her “the boost given to the economy through job creation and support to rice farmers, which has greatly reduced our dependence on imported rice besides small and medium scale industries, youth/women empowerment," is equally commendable, noting that "the MarketMoni, TraderMoni programmes of the Federal Government has also brought stability to the petty traders.

"Also worthy of mention is the distribution of gas cylinders and regulators (which will not only reduce the risk associated with the use of firewood and charcoal as a means of cooking but also desertification and other environmental hazards among many others), have impacted positively and given the electorates new lease of life."

Also in attendance was the CWON National Chaplain, Very Rev. Father Benedict, Okike, National Sister-Adviser, Rev. Sr. Shade Marypia Adesanya, other top officials and members of the organisation.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
26th January 2022