₦airaland Forum

HOW TO GUARANTEE THE AFRICA WE WANT, BY OSINBAJO AT AFRICAN COURT’S FIRST EVER FORMAL YEARLY OPENING IN ARUSHA

Africa will overcome its current governance and human rights challenges, VP adds

Commends Court for development of human rights jurisprudence & proposes way forward


For Africa to achieve the desired level of attainment, issues such as poverty, socio-economic rights, environmental and sustainable development alongside concerns about democracy and unconstitutional changes of governments, have to be dealt with. 

This was the charge Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, gave as Special Guest of Honour today in his address at the opening of the 2022 Judicial Year of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, in Arusha, Tanzania. He spoke on the theme: “The African Court and The Africa we want”.

"The Africa we want is one that addresses, amongst others, humanity's most pressing concerns of eradication of poverty, hunger and disease; the sustenance of democracy and the rule of law; sustainable development, especially dealing with challenges of climate change and application of finite resources for economic growth and diversification; human security and peace,"  Prof. Osinbajo declared.

He also commended the African Court of Human and People's Rights for the Afrocentric development of human rights jurisprudence, noting that already the African Court was playing its own role.

For instance, he mentioned that the Court has required States to uphold rights and principles of fairness, transparency and inclusiveness in elections during the COVID-19 pandemic, while also noting  its declaration that States should not use the postponement of elections to “unduly” prolong elected officials’ term of office.

The VP, who addressed the justices of the African Court, other sister regional human rights institutions, groups of lawyers and experts and international human rights bodies, among other stakeholders, identified the challenges and burdens “we must discharge to arrive at the type of continent we want,” and then asked the question, “what is the Court doing by its mandate and practice to relieve those burdens?”

He then called on African nations to, while pursuing implementation of Agenda 2063, resolve to improve the human rights records of the continent in the immediate future, as "the purpose of life is in the here and now, not in the far future."

He was optimistic that “Africa will overcome its current governance and human rights challenges,” but decried “the lack of a proper enforcement mechanism, either at the domestic or continental level, notwithstanding the Ouagadougou Protocol’s mandate on the AU Executive Council,” describing it as one of the challenges Africa must work hard to resolve.

Prof. Osinbajo then identified other challenges as “the reluctance of some States to respect the Court’s orders of interim measures, not to mention funding problems in the face of competing financial needs within the AU system.”

The Vice President proposed that "we must find some common grounds moving forward. There might be a need for further interaction between the court and member States and civil society on how to work through these issues. The general reluctance of States to concede sovereignty is not peculiar to African States. But it is possible for us to be more creative about complementarity for example."

"I make these submissions recognizing very clearly going by the present constitutive documents of the courts and the AU Charter, we are not in a position to effect what I am proposing but I believe by way of amendments, we may be able to at least, experiment with some thinking out of the box on complementarity.

"But the point being made is that it should be possible to change tactics from time to time while keeping the strategy and vision constant," he added.

At the event also attended by the Prime Minister of Tanzania, Mr Kassim Majaliwa Majaliwa who represented President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the President of the Court, Justice Imani Aboud, declared the 2022 Judicial Year opened, explaining the rationale for the first ever formal opening of the yearly session of the Court, including the need to boost the visibility of the Court and engaging its stakeholders.

Also the Vice President of the Court, Justice Blaise Tchikaya, in the vote of thanks commended Prof. Osinbajo "for the constant support that he always gives to the Court."



Laolu Akande

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President

28th February, 2022

In a personally signed statement this afternoon, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, mourns the sudden death of Mr. Ojima Omale, a young enterprising shoe designer based in Abuja.

Here below is the Vice President's statement:

"I am deeply saddened by the news of the sudden death of Mr. Ojima Omale, aka OJBEST, 28, my young enterprising shoemaker and friend.

Omale was CEO of O.J Best Footwears. He was talented, creative and dedicated to his craft. I never ceased to be impressed by his exertions for perfection in his products.

I and many members of my team, for whom he also made shoes, will miss him, his services and unfailing good humour.

Our thoughts are with his family as we pray that God will comfort them. May his memory remain blessed."

*VP receives delegation at Presidential Villa, thankful to God for an honest President, fantastic country

*Adds: Nigeria’s most important resource is human capital

They sang indoors and outdoors at the Presidential Villa yesterday evening but the tune and lyrics were the same: President Muhammadu Buhari’s Administration has done well and his deputy, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo is the President's 'personal person.'

A large delegation made up of notable artists, musicians, entertainers and creatives from the Northern parts of the country paid a courtesy call on the Vice President with commendation for the administration while also tabling their requests to further spur their industry.

While receiving the delegation, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, stated that a country’s most important resource are its human resources, and Nigeria must place a premium on this because its talents are the country’s biggest export and significant investment.

Prof. Osinbajo said this on Wednesday evening when he received at the Presidential Villa, the Kannywood delegation.

They came under the auspices of a group named 13 x 13 Awareness Group led by Kannywood personalities, such as Alhaji Dauda Adamu Rarara, its President and Yakubu Mohammed, spokesperson, among several others.

During the meeting, the Kannywood group delivered a special song filled with commendation for the work and accomplishments, while also chorusing that Prof. Osinbajo is together with "Baba Buhari." The song was led by Yusuf Haruna, a.k.a Baban Chinedu, a Muslim actor who features as an Igbo character in films.

The lyrics of the song sang in Hausa is translated into English thus:

Verse: "Youths, everyone, come out, from the cities to the rural areas, let’s do Osinbajo and Baba Buhari.

In the past, we brought you this song, now we have come with the song again, Osinbajo and Baba Buahri. Buhari is fixing the country for us”

Chorus: Osinbajo of Baba Buhari.

The Kannywood actors praised the leadership, dedication and wisdom of the Buhari-Osinbajo administration.

Emphasising on the need to pay more attention to the country’s human resources, the Vice President noted that Nigeria’s creative sector is one of the most vibrant anywhere, observing that Nigeria’s impressive array of talents across the creative sector needs to be showcased more to the world.

Pointing out some of members of the delegation whose works he had encountered such as veteran Kannywood actor, Rabiu Rikadawa, among others, in the room yesterday, the VP said, “I think one of the best things that our country has is talent, very solid talent. Sometimes we make the mistake of not exhibiting our talents enough, not showing off our talents enough and it’s a big mistake because this is our best resource.”

He stated that some countries do not have any mineral resource, but their best export is their human resource, adding that the creative sector is a very powerful tool of influence in any nation, and can be used effectively to advance social causes and nation building.

According to the VP “when you look at our country, here is a fantastic country, with talents from every corner, but it can also be a place where people are just fighting, quarrelling over nothing; whereas we can bring, with the power of what you are doing, we can bring people together, we can bring all our people together.

"If you look at sports, if you look at entertainment, they can bring people together. And we must use it to bring our people together, we must use this talent to bring our people together.”

“I like the film industry. I enjoy comedy, I enjoy songs in whatever language, and I’m sure there are so many who are interested. Even sometimes looking at a video when you don’t even speak the language, you look at a video you’ll laugh because you know that it is funny.

“So, sometimes it does not matter the language in which it is delivered, people will laugh so long as it is funny. I think that you have a very strong weapon - the creative industry, has a very strong weapon - drama, music, comedy, these are very powerful and you can use them to do so many things and we must use it to do so many things.

“The usefulness of your talent is not just for a small set of people, but it is for everybody because your contributions are very important,” the VP stated.

He expressed happiness “to see all of us who are here, people who are using their talents to invest as they can.”

The VP then discussed how the entertainment industry can be supported to do even more. His words: "we can do more, if we are supported, supported by government, supported by the private sector, but the question is how, how are we going to do that? I want us to take this meeting seriously so that we can have a meeting to advance what we have been talking about.”

Despite the challenges of insecurity, insurgency, the Vice President stated that Government would continue to explore ways to support the creative sector and improve other aspects of national life.

He stated how despite two recessions and the socio-economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration has shown firm resolve and commitment towards improving the economy and welfare of all Nigerians.

Prof. Osinbajo noted that the Buhari administration will continue to ramp up efforts to improve security across the country.

“We are still fighting insurgency, Boko Haram insurgency and ISWAP, then we have banditry here and there in the North-West and things like that. All of these have occurrences in the life of a nation. Every nation runs into trouble, but it is the government at the time that must take the responsibility."

He also emphasized on the commitment of President Muhammadu Buhari to better the lot of the country, noting that the President is a honest leader.

“We are very fortunate that God gave us a leader like President Muhammadu Buhari at the time we are facing. And the reason why I say so is because, you see, if we don’t have a steady hand, matured person who understands a lot of things and who is respected by the people, there will be more chaos and we won’t even know where this will end.

“We must continue to thank God that at least we have a leader who is considered honest all across the country, everybody knows that he’s a man of his words, no matter where you are in the country, you know that he’s a man of his words, you know he’s honest and you know he is not stealing the resources of the country.”

The leader of the delegation Alhaji Rarara recalled how some of the delegation members including himself, have been actively supporting the Buhari administration. He also praised the government for many of its laudable programmes that has touched so many people but added that more needed to be done.

"We know both yourself and the President are committed to the people and are alligned. That is why we are still with you."

In his remarks on behalf of the group, Yakubu Mohammed, the spokesperson also added that the group has been supporting the Buhari administration and will continue to support the government. He solicited for government assistance in helping to address some of the challenges the industry is facing especially in the area of financial enablement.

He said the activities of the group are funded solely by its members, but lamented that their industry is lagging behind. In specific response, the VP said he is looking forward to working with the group to resolve the challenges of the industry.


Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
17th February, 2022

More photos

The Honorable Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire was represented by the permanent secretary of the ministry of health.

Also in attendance was the honorable Senator Ibrahim Oloriegbe

The event had in attendance, the Registrar of the Council, Dr Tajudeen A.B. Sanusi, Chairman of the council, Professor Abba Waziri Hassan, OON.

THE 2022 SWEARING IN CEREMONY OF FOREIGN TRAINED MEDICAL AND DENTAL GRADUATES HELD YESTERDAY AT THE MDCN AUDITORIUM, KAURA DISTRICT, ABUJA.

THE 2022 SWEARING IN CEREMONY OF FOREIGN TRAINED MEDICAL AND DENTAL GRADUATES HELD YESTERDAY AT THE MDCN AUDITORIUM, KAURA DISTRICT, ABUJA.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WSKsCReOLUw

Osinbajo will contest and win. Well meaning Nigerians are solidly behind him.

Former National Secretary of the Labour Party, Kayode Ajulo, on Wednesday said most governors of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are backing Vice President Yemi Osinbajo for the presidency in 2023.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Ajulo said Osinbajo has performed exceedingly well within the last seven years in office to succeed President Muhammadu Buhari.

To Ajulo, nobody has been able to find fault in Osinbajo, adding that he should be the next President. He also called on the ruling APC to consider the vice president for the position.

According to him, if the APC is so serious in winning the 2023 presidential election, the only person seen as the best marketable candidate is Osinbajo.

“We need to distinguish the office of the Vice President and the personality of Professor Yemi Osinbajo. As it is, his running for this election is non-negotiable,” he said.

“I can say that authoritatively and I think those in the presidency are listening. He has that fundamental right of the first refusal to that ticket, particularly being the vice president of the country.

“If he can be Vice President for so long, he should be the next President. I want to believe that the leadership of the party should believe that that is the position.

“Most of the governors in APC and PDP are even supporting the aspiration of the Vice President, this is so clear.”

He also faulted a claim by APC member, Daniel Bwala, that Osinbajo will not be contesting for presidency in 2023.

With President Buhari’s tenure coming to an end next year, there has been curiosity about who will emerge as Nigeria’s President. This is even as the two major parties – the APC and the PDP – have not yet zoned the presidential slot to any geopolitical regions, although some aspirants under both parties have publicly declared their intention for the nation’s top job.

Even me can deposit more than that to his campaign. Tell us who deposited less

The Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo stops by to commiserate with the parents and family of Hanifa Abubakar, the 5year old girl who was murdered by her school teacher in Kano.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKrqZzLD1cc

This video shows how Vice President Yemi Osinbajo gave a new life to internally displaced children in Borno state.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qZHjV3R9dk

VP receives Dangote, delegation from Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

Despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigeria’s public health system is still robust and when well resourced, can achieve greater coverage, including meeting targets set in disease prevention and eradication, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this in Abuja on Tuesday when he received on a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa, Abuja, a delegation from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation led by its President, Dr Christopher Elias accompanied by Alhaji Aliko Dangote, founder of the Dangote Foundation.

According to the Vice President, “clearly we need to do a lot more, perhaps what needs to happen is increasing personnel in our public healthcare system, ramping up the numbers, so that we can achieve greater coverage and do a lot more.

“I am confident that our public health system is robust enough to deal with any situations so long as it is well resourced at the relevant times. We saw that with the response to COVID-19. So, it is really just ensuring that the system is well resourced and it works, and we will be able to deliver on those targets.”

Prof Osinbajo appreciated both the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Dangote Foundation for their support in the country’s healthcare system adding that the Federal Government looks forward to more collaboration with partners for the benefit of the Nigerian people.

In his remarks, Dr Elias commended the efforts of the Buhari administration in the area of human capital development despite the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, and urged improved collaboration among stakeholders to address issues related to nutrition and immunization, among other public health challenges.

Earlier, the Health Minister, Dr. Osagie Ehanire who was also in attendance, commended the partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, emphasizing the need for stakeholders to deepen cooperation in order to build stronger resilience and confidence in public healthcare delivery in Nigeria.



Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
1st February 2022

In its quest to continue to drive insurance penetration in Nigeria, AXA Mansard, a global leader in insurance and asset management sector has opened another office in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The new office, according to Jumoke Odunlami, Chief Customer & Marketing Officer of the company is another demonstration of AXA Mansard’s commitment to drive penetration of insurance in Nigeria by bringing services closer to the people.

Odunlami noted this at the grand opening of the Ibadan office recently, explaining that growing the company’s footprint nationwide with offices and welcome centres is part of the Company’s phygital strategy. “Our vision as an organisation is to move from being a payer to a partner of our customers. We understand that to make good this promise, we must stay closer so we can always be there when our customers need us. So, in addition to our continued investment in digital and technology to serve our customers, our network of offices nationwide are designed to give our customers a personal touch”, she said.

Also, speaking during the opening event, Adeola Adebanjo, Head, Retail Solutions Division said the opening of the office and others like it nationwide will help AXA Mansard support, interact and engage with its customers better. He commented;

‘This location will bring us closer to our esteemed customers in Ibadan and its environs and beyond that, is that it will make insurance products available, accessible and contribute to driving penetration of insurance in Nigeria. Our goal is to through initiatives like this increase the confidence of our customers to take on opportunities for progress, while we take care of the uncertainties that come with life on their behalf”.

The office is open to walk in customers on weekdays between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm and creates an enabling environment for customers to interact with the company’s team of highly qualified staff.

From L-R: Olufemi Abolude, Group Head, Retail Sales, West; Jumoke Odunlami, Chief Customer & Marketing Officer; Adeola Adebanjo, Group Head, Retail Division; Ayowale Sanusi, Area Sales Manager, Retail Sales West 2; all of AXA Mansard during the grand opening of the company's new office in Ibadan recently

*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

LATE OBA ADETUNJI CARING, STRAIGHTFORWARD LEADER, OSINBAJO SAYS AT OLUBADAN PALACE

VP in Ogbomosho, Ibadan delivers President's condolences, assures Nigeria will get better soon

Visits generate excitement, enthusiasm from Oyo people

The late Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Saliu Adetunji, was a man that loved his people, demonstrated genuine commitment to the progress of society and lived an accomplished life, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this on Sunday during a condolence visit to the Palace of the Olubadan of Ibadan, where he was received by the palace chiefs and wife of the late monarch, Olori Rashidat Adetunji, among other members of the royal family.

Before he arrived Ibadan yesterday, the VP had been to Ogbomoso where he also visited with the families of the late Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Jimoh Oladunni Oyewumi, Ajagungbade III, and former Oyo State Governor, Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala.

At both Ibadan and Ogbomoso, the Vice President was met on the streets and at all his stops by enthusiastic Nigerians who trooped out to welcome and interact with him, at times with singing and drumming, always with excitement.

The Vice President, who was received on arrival at the Oyo State Government House Arcade, Ibadan, by the State Deputy Governor, Rauf Olaniyan, extended the condolences of President Muhammadu Buhari to the late monarch’s family and people of the State.

Describing the late Olubadan as a caring and honest leader, the Vice President, who spoke in Yoruba said "it is very necessary for me to come here because our father who departed was someone who was deeply kind; he loved people and everyone.

"All through his lifetime, when we visited, even when we spoke with him during phone calls, he always showed his love and kept praying for us."

Testifying to the late paramount ruler's forthrightness, Prof. Osinbajo said "it was President Buhari who mentioned it first that when we were campaigning, Olubadan was someone who would speak his true mind with you on what he had decided to do, he wasn’t a betrayer, who would tell you one thing and do the other."

He observed that "there are different types of people; but for Olubadan, he was a straightforward leader."

Speaking about the late Oba's virtues and legacy, the VP noted that "all through his lifetime, he fulfilled all his set goals, beginning from when he was a tailor, to starting a record label and the rest of his plans."

"Even his ambition to become the Olubadan became successful; just as we know that it is God who crowns a king. For anyone to be crowned a king, it is only by God’s will, and we thank God; it aligned with His will for our father to be crowned a king.

"God willed it, and he made him a king. Besides this, our father also left an inheritance for his children, which, in this sense, are not the money, houses and cars, because all these will still perish; but the heritage I’m talking about is the good name and legacy he left behind, which all of us will continue to speak about and stay with.

"We thank God for the good name he left behind as a mark of honour and goodwill for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and all of us will benefit from it," he added.

He assured the royal family and guests present during the visit that the legacy and efforts of the late monarch for a progressive Nigeria shall be fulfilled.

"I wish to thank you all here gathered, everything our father did for Ibadan, and even, our nation, Nigeria, we know all. And we will continue to speak about them. We can't tell it all about someone who was that outstanding in his lifetime.

Giving assurance about the future of the country, the VP said "I assure you that our country, Nigeria, will be better than this. It will be a very comfortable place for all of us to live in, and we shall all be alive to eat the good of this land. We shall all see how good it will be, and it is very soon.

"It may look as if there are challenges now, but God will solve them all."

The Vice President's visit to Oyo State on Sunday generated enthusiasm and excitement among Nigerians from diverse backgrounds who thronged major streets in Ogbomoso and Ibadan to acknowledge the VP's presence as his motorcade drove through their neighbourhood. In some instances, the VP's convoy had to stop as he acknowledged the crowds who had massed on the road.

Right from his arrival at the Ogbomoso Grammar School, where his chopper landed, to the premises of the First Baptist Church, Okelerin, where the funeral service for the late Soun of Ogbomoso was held, the Vice President received a rousing welcome from a mammoth crowd who cheered and danced, with many carrying banners of different shades.

In Ogbomoso, residents trooped out and lined the major roads in the town, displaying placards with various pro-Osinbajo inscriptions. Matters got to a head at the residence of the late former Oyo Governor, Alao-Akala, where crowds of excited residents of the ancient town had gathered ahead of the VP's arrival with singing and drumming, and the VP acknowledging the cheering.

In the same vein, Vice President Osinbajo on arrival in Ibadan received a rousing reception as his admirers gathered around the Government House Arcade, drumming and dancing to welcoming songs. Just like in Ogbomoso, residents trooped out at points on the road peaking at the entrance of the Olubadan's palace.

At some points, including at the palace of the Olubadan, the VP had to stop to acknowledge greetings from many excited residents in the city.

In both Ogbomoso and Ibadan the Vice President was accompanied by dignitaries and State Government officials. While the Governor was with the VP in Ogbomoso, his deputy received him in Ibadan. There were also members of the National Assembly, as well as Prince Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye, with the VP.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
24th January, 2022

A reputable school in Kaduna is in need of the following teachers

1. Biology/Basic science
2. History.
3. Physically Health Education.
4. Technical Drawing.
5. French.
7. Civic Education.
8. Mathematics.
Call +234 802 372 9127 if you are interested.
The vacancies available for limited time.

Delivering a special address at the ongoing World Economic Forum, Vice President Osinbajo says African Countries need international partnerships to tackle climate change, address security concerns, promote economic prosperity, combat disease and improve governance.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CnV2KqtyN28

A school in Kaduna is in need of the following teachers

1. Biology/Basic science
2. History.
3. Physically Health Education.
4. Technical Drawing.
5. French.
6. Civic Education.
7. Mathematics.
Call +234 802 372 9127 if you are interested.
The vacancies are available for a limited time.

What human capital has Tinubu developed gan an? I am sick and tired of hearing this argument.

Let's break this down. At best, Tinubu's relationship with these guys has been symbiotic in the best scenario for him.

Was it Tinubu that made Osinbajo the Professor he is, or Tinubu needed his brain to run his government?

When he got jammed up with Obasanjo, it was Osinbajo that came up with a legal solution for him and they won serially in courts.

For your information, Tinubu was against his becoming the VP. He reluctantly agreed when he had no choice.

Was it Tinubu that made Fashola Senior Advocate of Nigeria?

He only tapped into Fashola's brain to make his government look good. The benefit was mutual. The moment Fashola's profile started rising above his own as Governor, he tried to stop him from getting a second term. What they play now is a cat and mouse game. The relationship has never been the same.

Ambode was the Chief Accountant of Lagos State that came up with the plan to raise the State IGR that they are enjoying today. Now they are no longer friends. He threw him under the bus.

Fayemi was one of those eggheads that fought with NADECO during Abacha infamous days. Tinubu only occasionally supplied funding.

The moment the Northerners suggested his name as a running mate to whoever emerges as President from the North, at the early stage of forming APC, Tinubu went against him. The relationship has gone down south since then.

Mamora is a suave and an urbane gentleman and a Medical Doctor to boot. He was simply one of the best Senators of his time. The moment his profile started rising in Abuja, with the potential to overshadow the landlord of Lagos, the ticket was taken from him by Tinubu and given to his wife.

Aregbesola was the most loyal to Tinubu of all those followers; now, the relationship has gone south.

Therefore, he uses these people as tools rather than their destiny helper.

The moment their profiles started to rise, he would attempt to stop them. He thinks he is the one to determine how far destiny can carry them.

This is a guy who destroyed all the powers that made him from AD days.

I am sick and tired of the platitude.

Buhari that completely shut Tinubu out of his governance for 7 years is unlikely to hand over to him.

What about supporting a younger Osinbajo or Fashola for the position if he is altruistic in growing talents?

Ayo Turton

Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) is in Kano today to deliver the Ahmadu Bello Memorial Lecture. #OsinbajoInKano

https://youtube.com/shorts/cdWFsnpcbco?feature=share

Olawale Olaleye

Since his emergence as Nigeria’s number-two citizen, different accounts had been flying around on how Professor Yemi Osinbajo, actually secured the coveted vice-presidential slot, a majority of which revolved around the person of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, his former boss. Indeed, the recent revelation by Chief Bisi Akande in his book, “My Participations” was equally slanted to further pin down the narrative.

You may recall that in 2016, Professor John Paden, authored a biography, ‘Muhammadu Buhari: The Challenges of leadership in Nigeria’, where he dismissed speculations that Tinubu, influenced the emergence of Osinbajo as Buhari’s running mate, but contended that Buhari, instead, chose Osinbajo despite a lot of pressure from Tinubu, who was interested in the position. That book raised a lot of dust and as expected, Tinubu’s soldiers went for the professor.

But, regardless of whichever version you must have read or heard, what you are about to read now is the untold story of how Professor Osinbajo, became Buhari’s running mate and eventually, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

It happened that the All Progressives Congress (APC) was almost running against the deadline for the submission of names of its candidates ahead of the 2015 presidential election. There was no debate about its presidential candidate, Muhammadu Buhari, who had emerged at a convention held in Lagos in December of 2014. But the party had been held hostage on its choice for the running mate.

In the forefront of the confusion that had ensued as a result was Tinubu, who didn’t hide his desire to fill the slot. He hinged this on the understanding he allegedly had with Buhari in the early days of their proposed alliance, before the merger that eventually culminated in the formation of the APC, now boasting several other tendencies.

With a bigger house made possible by what was known as the ‘legacy parties’ and other individuals, who championed the change movement, a Muslim/Muslim ticket had become arguably impracticable.

This much was canvassed by a majority of the actors with stakes in the party, especially, with the increasing attacks from the Boko Haram terrorist group. They had considered a Muslim/Muslim ticket a very hard sell.

However, with 24 hours to deadline for submission of names, coupled with the fact that Tinubu had made a smooth choice of a running mate nearly impossible, including the fact that he was made to chair a selection committee, which failed to fly, because of his vested interest, Buhari then decided to take the bull by the horn, being the candidate.

While the underhand intrigues subsisted, Buhari had set up a team of some persons, including a former governor of Zamfara State, Abdul-Aziz Yari; former President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki; incumbent Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal and his predecessor, Magatakarda Wamakko, amongst others to shortlist names of likely candidates for him, from the South.

Interestingly, it seemed there was a consensus that with the role of the Southwest, the running mate must come from the zone, reason other interested folks from other parts of the country could not fly.

The committee had completed its work and submitted a list of three names to Buhari. First on the list is a former Osun State governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, followed by Senator Olorunimbe Mamora and third, Professor Yemi Osinbajo. Please, follow the trend and how Osinbajo’s name first featured in the 2015 theatrics.

Armed with the list and wary of the deadline staring him in the face, Buhari left for Tinubu’s house in Abuja, first to explain that a Muslim/Muslim ticket was not going to fly, meaning he would be unable to run with him and that in the alternative, he (Tinubu) could recommend anyone from the list to him as his preferred choice for the slot. At least, he thought it was okay to do him that honour.

Unfortunately, Tinubu didn’t receive the news well and flared up so bad that he was alleged to have engaged in war of words with Buhari, who stormed out of his house, after Tinubu had insinuated betrayal. Amongst those in Tinubu’s house at the time were Chief Bisi Akande, Rauf Aregbesola and Adams Oshiomhole. But only Oshiomhole walked Buhari to his car as he made to leave the house.

From Tinubu’s house, Buhari stopped over at the home of a former governor from the Southern part of the country and told him all that transpired, and went back home – angry and disappointed.

Getting home, he sent for Saraki and when the former Senate President got to his place, he narrated what happened and the embarrassment meted out to him, saying if Tinubu wanted a fight, he was ready and he would give it back in full dose.

But Saraki pleaded with him that it was too early and that the situation was not what they couldn’t manage well before the elections. Saraki immediately contacted a former Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, and hinted him that there was fire on the mountain and that he needed to come around to join forces with him to manage the situation. Amosun left his home in Abeokuta, first for Lagos and then Abuja, and straight to Buhari’s home.

Thus, when he got there, he was intimated with all that had happened, but he was particularly worried about deadline and pleaded with Buhari to let him take it over from there. So, he left for Tinubu’s place to close the deal.

By the time he got to Tinubu’s residence, Oshiomhole had left but still with him were Baba Akande and Ogbeni Aregbesola. Typical of Amosun, who would not waste time on anything, he told Tinubu that Buhari’s mind was already made up, but that he should decide now, who he wanted as the running mate, at least, that only the individual he chose would be presented to Buhari and not give him the pleasure of choosing from a list.

Still angry and disappointed, the first person Tinubu suggested in that rage was Oshiomhole. But as if planned, there was almost a unanimous opposition from everyone in the room. Then, Aregbesola suggested Osinbajo and he (Tinubu) opposed it, saying Osinbajo was one of those, who campaigned against a Muslim/Muslim ticket and must therefore not benefit from it.

Now, let’s digress a bit. Tinubu’s anger against Osinbanjo was this. The former Lagos governor had set up a team of persons close to him to ponder the Muslim/Muslim idea and the best way to push it forward. Those on the team included Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Senator Tokunbo Afikuyom, Mr. Wale Edun, Mr. Dele Alake and Dr. Dapo Thomas. The team met regularly at a private Guest House on the Island, Ikoyi to be precise.

But Osinbajo had during one of their meetings said pointedly that there was no way he would defend a Muslim/Muslim ticket in good conscience especially, with the state of security in the country. He asked on what account would he go back to his family and say he was part of such a decision? Of course, Tinubu got a feedback from the team and held it against him, even though Osinbajo didn’t mean any harm.

Therefore, at the mention of Osinbajo, he revolted almost instantly. But he needed to give a name and time was fast going before deadline. So, he asked to see the list brought by Buhari and on sighting it, he said, “Okay, let’s run with Oyinlola.” To that too, Baba Akande protested and it was back to square one.

Again, Aregbesola prevailed and contended that, like it or not, Osinbajo remained a member of Tinubu’s political family and therefore, still his best bet. After a few minutes of grumbling, he reluctantly agreed to Osinbajo. And Amosun asked him repeatedly if it was a deal and he responded in the affirmative. Final answer kind of thing! Mamora was not even to be considered as far as Tinubu was concerned. Those who know Lagos politics would understand why.

When he finally agreed to Osinbajo, Aregbesola even pleaded to be given the honour of being the person to break the news to Osinbajo. But Amosun didn’t have the patience to acquiesce to that request. For him, time was of the essence and that assignment was handled business-like. Therefore, how Baba Akande handed them a note with Osinbajo’s name and ordered them to Buhari is still a mirage. Besides, Aregbesola did not go with him.

Anyway, in the presence of all, Amosun made a call to Osinbajo to ask, where he was and that a plane would be sent to convey him now to Abuja. But, incidentally, Osinbajo replied that he was in Abuja already, because he had a case at the Supreme Court.

Great, everything seemed to be working together for good, he reckoned. Then asked him to come immediately to Ogun House in Abuja, and when he arrived, he first congratulated him saying, “You’re the next vice-president of Nigeria.”

With a confounding gaze, he conveyed him in his (Amosun’s) car and drove straight to Buhari’s house, with Kemi Adeosun, former Minister of Finance, sitting in front of the car.

Getting to the candidate’s residence, Amosun asked Osinbajo to wait downstairs, while he went upstairs to see the president and told Buhari: “I have him sir,” and Buhari asked: “Who?” and he replied: “Your running mate”.

The APC candidate then came downstairs, where he first met with Osinbajo for the first time as introduced to him by Amosun and immediately, ushered them to a sitting area in the kitchen, where his nomination form was filled in a hurry.

Osinbajo, filling his form in Buhari’s dinning area, was guided by Mrs. Adeosun, Amosun and Sarki Abba, one of Buhari’s domestic staff, to hasten up the process. Buhari, too, was there watching them complete the process.

This is why for those, who know the story, how Osinbajo later turned out to be Amosun’s enemy remains a mystery to them. But with this insider picture of how Osinbajo ‘walked from Lagos to Abuja’, readers can now decide by themselves, the person, who actually made Osinbajo the vice president. To do this, however, five centres must be factored into account.

The first is the team set up by Buhari, which included him amongst the three potential candidates. The second is Aregbesola, who consistently mentioned him until it was approved. The third is Tinubu, who reluctantly agreed to his choice, without which they probably would have been unable to move on.

The fourth was Amosun, who had to run a major and serious race from Abeokuta to Lagos and Abuja to make sure that phase in the life of APC was closed. The fifth and most important is Buhari himself. He could have rejected him if he wanted to. After all, he was going to be working with him and definitely should have a say in the choice of his partner.

But if you asked this writer, no one person made Osinbajo vice president. The coming together of everyone as designed by God did the job. Therefore, no one person can claim the glory. This, in a nutshell, is the story of Osinbajo’s journey to the seat of power, Abuja.

All the additions and facts deliberately mutilated by Baba Akande are curious. But, it is understandable. Above all, if you are in doubt, many names are mentioned here as witnesses to the journey, you can check with them all.

VP OSINBAJO OFF TO ACCRA, REPRESENTING NIGERIA AT ECOWAS EXTRAORDINARY SUMMIT ON MALI*
 

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, departs Abuja for Accra, Ghana this morning to represent President Muhammadu Buhari at an Extraordinary Summit of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government to discuss the political situation in the Republic of Mali. 
 
Today’s meeting which is expected to be attended by leaders across the region, follows previous meetings and efforts by the leaders to resolve the situations in Mali and Guinea.
 
In 2021, Prof. Osinbajo participated in meetings of leaders across the sub-region on the issues exploring solutions.

On September 8, the VP participated in a virtual summit of the regional body where sanctions were imposed on the military junta in Guinea, and on the 16th of the same month, attended another ECOWAS summit where further sanctions on individuals and groups fueling the crisis in Guinea and Mali were discussed.
 
Later in November 2021, Prof. Osinbajo again joined other leaders in Accra for the 3rd Extraordinary Summit of leaders across the sub-region to review decisions and the political situations in Mali and Guinea.
 
In compliance with the decisions of the leaders, ECOWAS mediator, former President Goodluck Jonathan traveled on January 5th, 2022 to Mali to meet with authorities in the country over the timetable for democratic transition. Indeed Dr. Jonathan briefed President Buhari on the matter recently.
 
Prof. Osinbajo who is accompanied by the Minister of State Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Zubairu Dada, is expected back in Abuja today.
 
 

*Laolu Akande*

*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*

*January 9, 2022.*

Well-meaning Nigerians want Osinbajo

A report by an online newspaper that Vice President Yemi Osinbajo informed President Muhammadu Buhari of his intention to run for President in 2023 on New Year’s Day, is “fake news,” according to the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity in the Office of the Vice President, Laolu Akande.
When Quest Times reached out to Osinbajo’s spokesperson Akande, he said: “This is pure, fake news.”
Akande added that “Mr. President and the VP did not meet on New Year’s Day.”
When pressed Akande added that the media should stick with what he had said on the 2023 presidency. “If there is an update, I will ensure the media is made aware, please ignore the lies and many are going to still come.”

https://thequesttimes.com/osinbajo-did-not-meet-president-buhari-on-2023-presidency-spokesperson-clarifies/

By: Gabriel Garuba Irene

Fellow Nigerians, I greet you very specially at this auspicious period of mixed-feelings. I align myself with the common and very popular saying in the Nigerian social media space that life is not balanced. This itself will explain why everyone will never accept a common submission whatsoever. Even when there is a cornucopia of what is yearned for, discerning opinions abound. Life is, has not, and will never be balanced. Not even in Nigeria.

Even in the imbalance of life, one man has, in his little way and opportunity bridged the linking gap to strike a seeming balance. An effort that could be engineered with stronger authority – a fate that rests solely in the hands of God. Posterity has a role to play in it.

One of the areas we have been very unfair as a people is the ability to recall people’s positive antecedents. Even when we do, political affiliation does not permit us to say this in the open. This is a moral decadence on the side of the political elites - attitudinal behaviour that can only be subdued by a few individuals in our present society.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo stands a better chance of becoming the next Nigerian President, looking at various odds in the political circle. Some reasons are based on performance, some are based on his political zoning arrangement, previous antecedents, religion, professional and academic status, and the bound of history.

Before you read further, I enjoin you to get a cup of water, avoid distraction, read with an open mind, raise questions from it. This article will have it's part two, based on questions raised. We go!

In 1999, the Southern part of Nigeria, precisely South West, produced the President of the country, while the Northern region had the Vice President. After President Olusegun Obasanjo’s tenure of 1999 to 2007, late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua (North) took over in 2007. His sudden death on May 5, 2010 paved way for another Southerner to occupy the most exulted national position. Late President Yar’Adua’s death tampered with the honourable agreement of South-North and North-South Presidency. President Goodluck Jonathan (Southerner), being sworn in as the President of Nigeria in 2010, contested in 2011 and won. Jonathan, haven sworn in as Nigerian President in 2011, there was an automatic alteration in the honourable arrangement in the scheme of representation. This, probably not solely, was a major reason former President Jonathan lost to another Northerner – President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019.

Nigeria’s constitution can only allow eight maximum of years in office for the office of the President. So, after President Buhari’s eight years in office, the Southern region has an opportunity to produce the next President. An alteration of this gentleman arrangement under President Jonathan was one of the major reasons he could not be elected in 2019, due to a major force from the North, clamoring that Yar’Adua’s tenure (invariably Northern turn) was not complete.

After Buhari/Osinbajo’s regime, power shifts automatically to the South. This odd favors the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, looking at the zoning pattern of his political party - the All Progressives Congress. Any attempt to have a northern Presidency after President Buhari may repeat the recent history of Jonathan’s enthusiasm.

Professor Osinbajo’s performance as Vice President of Nigeria, from 2019 till date is debatably an achievement that may not be beaten in the nearest future. As Acting President between May 7 and August 13, 2017 when the President was on medical vacation, VP Osinbajo’s effort within this period was lauded beyond party, ethno-religious lines.

As Acting President, Professor Osinbajo made some remarkable impacts. For instance, he instructed the head of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to reform the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and ordered an independent investigation after persistent complaints and reports that bordered on allegations of human rights violations.

We can also recall that the Vice President, while on Acting capacity transmitted a letter to the National Assembly seeking the confirmation of Ibrahim Magu as substantive chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on July 14, 2016. But the Senate, under former Senate President Bukola Saraki, however rejected Magu’s nomination.

Similarly, it should be recalled that it was while Osinbajo was the Acting President in February 2017 that a letter, seeking the confirmation of then acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Walter Samuel Onnoghen, was transmitted to the Senate.
One of the most notable footprints of the Vice President in acting capacity was the sack of the Director General of the Department of State Service (DSS), Lawal Daura, following the invasion of the National Assembly by operatives of the service. This happened in August, 2018.

Under him as Acting President, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo commissioned quite a number of projects. For instance, Acting President Osinbajo commissioned the Calabar Monorail, the Calabar International Convention Centre, and the Cross-River Garment Factory. On same visit, he thereafter visited the Calabar Rice City located at the Ayade Industrial Park, and also inspected the Calabar Pharmaceutical both of which were still under construction.

On July 18, 2017, Acting President Yemi Osinbajo was in Zamfara to also commission several State government’s projects. Same groundbreaking commissioning of Lagos-Ibadan rail transport project in March, 2017.

All of these were done within 103 days of President Buhari’s absence. Tremendous moves that have raised a very high standard for any Acting President in the future. On this, his performance within the above duration, viz a viz his political party’s zoning arrangement between South and North, there is a possibility of him clinching the party’s Presidential ticket, and probably with a 60% possibility of becoming Nigeria’s next President.

One peculiar phenomenon has undoubtedly swayed the voting pattern of Nigerians since 1999 - this is religion. While checking the Vice President’s performance both as Acting President and Vice President, also looking at the zonal equation, one other factor is the religious practice. Most Nigerians have keyed into the rotation of major offices between the two major religions in the country – Islam and Christianity. With this, one would squarely believe that after the regime of President Muhammadu Buhari – a Muslim, a Christian southerner is the possible next President. With this, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo stands tall to clinch.

Apart from being a Christain the VP belongs to a very popular Christian denomination that can determine or pull a very huge vote when nominated. He is not just a member of the church; he is a senior Pastor. It could be said, although debatable, that the huge support from this denomination is due to their representation in the person of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. They remain a force.

Outside his religious denomination, the entire Christian community may decide to vote for a Christian Southerner, knowing that the outgoing President is a Northern Muslim. Overlooking these permutations is a pestilent move for any political party as we journey towards 2023.

Another factor that produces possibility for His Excellency, the Vice President of Nigeria is his professional career. Some people argue that Nigeria needs a seasoned professional as the next president. The Vice President may be backed by seasoned professionals and his associates in various strata. It should be made clear that the Vice President enjoys a robust and extensive relationship with the opposition parties. He is being admired and respected across party lines. His call for project commissioning across the country and across party divide is a testament of the love and likeness he enjoys from the people of Nigeria.

It is a huge omission if the President’s ability to suggest and support who replaces him in 2023 is swayed. As it stands, the Vice President enjoys a warm company of his boss, President Muhammadu Buhari. This, the President has severally stated in some of his public comments. In his message to the Vice President on his 64th birthday, the President described his deputy as “reliable and dedicated deputy who is not only admirably competent, but also exudes confidence and passion in the performance of his job; a cool-headed gentleman who puts the interest of Nigeria above other narrow consideration”.

The President continued by saying, “Vice President Osinbajo is an incredibly patient politician who demonstrates remarkable intellectual and mental energy in the discharge of his duties. I’m proud to have selected him as my running mate, and he has given a good account of himself since our journey began in 2015”. How best can we describe endorsement? This is an unprecedented statement that is very rare in a master-subordinate relationship in Nigeria.

In August 2020, President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) inaugurated the tripartite committee of the APC. Making His Excellency, Professor Yemi Osinbajo the head of the committee also displays the level of the Vice President’s acceptability in his party. Osinbajo maintains a very cordial and robust relationship with his party heads. His relationship with the caretaker committee of his party is a worrying partnership to a few who also aspire for same position. Nevertheless, the Vice President is a liberal, welcoming, down-to-earth individual whose loyalty to his nation and political party is unwinking.

The Vice President’s role in the emergence of Amoteku – the Southwest security group, is an encouraging step which stood well in the minds of the region’s political elites vis-à-vis her traditional leaders. The respected Ogun born Pastor, Senior Lawyer and Politician cares about his people and Nigeria in general. The security and general wellbeing of every Nigerian stand firm as a top priority in his agenda.

Professor Yemi Osinbajo enjoys the followership of the masses, also known as ‘street’. Little wonder he’s being called ‘Star Boy’. His engagement with the common man during the Trader Moni poverty alleviation programme is a testament of his popularity.

These are parameters of acceptability. These are odds that tilt. Although there are few other persons that come into this equation, but the advantages of Osinbajo and his level of acceptability nationwide exceed what other people portend. 2023 elections seem far by the average man, while politicians see it as tomorrow. Only God makes kings, only God determines who governs through the electorates. Irrespective of our efforts to attain power, God’s decision is utmost and supreme. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

VP highlights efforts by Administration to reduce poverty, provide jobs_

When the Buhari administration set out the Social Investment Programmes, which is now regarded as the largest of its kind in the continent, one of the objectives was to accelerate the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals in the country.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, made the disclosure today at the official launch of the ‘Review of Baseline Report and Realignment of the National Statistical System with SDGs, 2020,’ which held at the Statehouse Banquet Hall, Abuja.

He added that the Federal Government's national development objective is also in line with SDGs, and the Buhari administration will continue to ramp up efforts in reducing poverty, providing jobs for Nigerians, creating wealth and addressing climate change issues.

Prof. Osinbajo noted that Nigeria’s objective of achieving sustainable national development is consistent with the SDGs goals, "to engender an economically sustainable, socially inclusive and environmentally resilient world.

"For Nigeria, and indeed Africa as a whole, the achievement of the SDGs is crucial to the task of ending poverty, hunger, and disease, and safeguarding our environment."

Indeed according to the United Nations, in its report on “How the UN is supporting The Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria”, it noted that “since the adoption of the SDGs in September 2015, Nigeria has continued to demonstrate its commitment to achieving the global goals through leadership and ownership of the implementation process.”

The Vice President then emphasized FG’s commitment, noting that today’s “ceremony marks the culmination of a process which began in 2016 for monitoring and evaluating the progress made in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria.”

Prof. Osinbajo further noted that with the launch, Nigeria will be able to further track its progress annually on the SDGs. He observed that the implementation of the Federal Government’s social protection programmes was central to its vision for sustainable national development and achieving the SDGs.

"This is why in May 2019, Mr. President made a public commitment to lifting approximately 100 million Nigerians out of poverty within a 10-year period. This is a national development priority, which again follows on the establishment of our social protection programmes, the largest Social Investment Programmes (SIPs) on the continent – and which by itself, is an attempt to accelerate the achievement of the SDGs across the country, " the Vice President affirmed.

He described the SIPs as “a multi-pronged approach to wealth creation, human capacity development and poverty alleviation," stressing for instance that “the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) component of the programme reaches approximately 8.9 million poor and vulnerable households and 37.7 million individuals across the country.”

Highlighting the impact of the Social Investment Programmes, Prof. Osinbajo noted that “the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP) has provided about 2.4 million loans to petty traders and small entrepreneurs worth N38billion across the country,

Also the administration’s youth employment and skills enhancement initiative, N-Power Programme, “is designed to employ 1 million youths between the ages of 18-35 and further equip them with skills for the job market over a two-year period.”

The Vice President noted that "as a successor plan for the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), the Nigeria SDGs Indicator-Baseline Report (2016) reinforced the need to strengthen our national statistical system to enable effective tracking and monitoring of the SDGs that we all committed to."

On the Report on the ‘Review of Baseline and Realignment of the National Statistical System with SDGs, 2020’ itself, the VP highlighted that “One of the areas of marked improvement in this document is the increased range of reporting – from the 126 indicators recorded in the 2016 Baseline Report - to the 141 indicators in the current 2020 Report.”

Just as the Report also observed, Prof. Osinbajo emphasized that ensuring the SDGs by integrating them into plans and policies, was the approach taken by the Buhari administration in the implementation of its development plans.

These include the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (2017 – 2020), the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPGRS), the Economic Sustainability Plan (ESP), and more recently, the National Development Plan 2021-2025, which was approved by the Federal Executive Council in November.

The Vice President commended the efforts of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, and the Statistician-General, Dr. Simon Harry who also made presentations at the event.

He praised Orelope-Adefulire for her “passion and commitment to the enormous task of meeting our SDG commitments”, and the Statistician-General “for your leadership in this important process.”

The VP observed that “the Nigeria SDGs Implementation Plan (2020-2030) offers a coherent pathway for achieving the expected outcomes in the next decade.”

He then presented the report and later inspected 19 ambulances presented by the Nigerian SDGs Office to support the healthcare delivery system at the sub-national level.

Laolu Akande,
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity,
Office of the Vice President.
21st December 2021

I love this part
However, while speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the book launch, Tinubu said that he would have been nailed for the offence he did not commit if Osinbajo was not available to defend him.

Group under auspices of Kaduna Polytechnic Stakeholders Forum has condemned alleged attempt by the Executive Secretary of National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Professor Idris Bugaje to unduely meddle with the affairs of Kaduna Polytechnic.
According to the group of concerned stakeholders, the several responses by Professor Bugaje has confirmed the suspicion that he is out to destabilise the institution.
The group in a Statement jointly signed by Malam Musa Muhammad and Mr. Joseph Kazachan its leaders,with the title:STILL ON PROFESSOR IDRIS BUGAJE’S UNDUE INTERFERENCE IN THE AFFAIRS OF KADUNA POLYTECHNIC .”In the responses, he not only failed to absolve himself of the blame for an attempt to disrupt the process of governance in the institution that has been put on him by this Forum and other well-meaning individuals and groups, but has also extended his baseless allegations of impropriety to the top officials of the Federal Ministry of Education.
“The other features of the responses were the unsuccessful attempt to explain the controversial circumstances of his exit from both the Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa and the National Research Institute for Chemical Technology [NARICT] Zaria as well as a desperation to ridicule the current Acting Rector, Dr Suleiman Umar. What was most apparent in his statements was the fact that the more he tried to either makes cases for himself or ridicule others, the clearer the weaknesses or even baselessness of his arguments appeared.”
Read Full Statement -: KADUNA POLYTECHNIC STAKEHOLDERS FORUM
STILL ON PROFESSOR IDRIS BUGAJE’S UNDUE INTERFERENCE IN THE AFFAIRS OF KADUNA POLYTECHNIC
Obviously, the several responses of the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Professor Idris Mohammed, in the affairs of the Kaduna Polytechnic has further confirmed the suspicion that he is only out to destabilise the institution.
In the responses, he not only failed to absolve himself of the blame for an attempt to disrupt the process of governance in the institution that has been put on him by this Forum and other well-meaning individuals and groups, but has also extended his baseless allegations of impropriety to the top officials of the Federal Ministry of Education.
The other features of the responses were the unsuccessful attempt to explain the controversial circumstances of his exit from both the Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa and the National Research Institute for Chemical Technology [NARICT] Zaria as well as a desperation to ridicule the current Acting Rector, Dr Suleiman Umar. What was most apparent in his statements was the fact that the more he tried to either makes cases for himself or ridicule others, the clearer the weaknesses or even baselessness of his arguments appeared.
This Forum has noticed that Professor Bugaje has already become extremely restless as evident in his incessant attacks on the Polytechnic Management, Governing Council, Staff and Students Unions as well as the Federal Ministry of Education which he accused of complicity in the alleged perpetration of illegality. While he accused the Registrar of the Polytechnic for sponsoring this Forum, he also alleged that that the Chairman and Members of the Governing Council and even the top officials of the Federal Ministry of Education were beneficiaries of financial inducement.
However, this Forum wishes to address the issues contained in Professor Bugaje’s responses as follows:
- As the name implies, the Kaduna Polytechnic Stakeholders Forum is made up of credible individuals who, in one way or another, have a genuine stake in the institution and have therefore considered it a collective responsibility for us to draw the attention of the relevant authorities to the clear attempt of the NBTE ES to cause derailment of the administrative process in the Polytechnic. In fact, the Forum has never consulted with any member of the Polytechnic Management or Governing Council before it embarked on its mission and can therefore not be said to have been a sponsored group.
– Contrary to his claim, the role or function of the NBTE stops at the regulation of the academic programmes of Polytechnics and not intervention or interference in the administrative processes of the institutions.
– The Acting Rector, Dr Suleiman Umar, whom the Professor Bugaje described as a just Chief Lecturer is a renowned academic who has unblemished record as one of the long-serving staff of the Polytechnic and whose capacity for delivery came out quite clearly when, as the Director of Planning, he ensured the accreditation of the academic programmes and, as the Deputy Rector, strengthened the administrative machinery of the institution,
– Moreover, having attained the position of a Chief Lecturer, Dr Umar is qualified for appointment as Acting or even Substantive Rector of Kaduna Polytechnic. In section 8(2)(i) of the Federal Polytechnics (Amendment) Act 2019 which specifies the category of person to be considered for appointment as Rector, it is stated that “qualifications of the persons who may apply for the post shall be a Chief Lecturer in the Polytechnic sector with at least five years experience on that position among other criteria.”
– Apart from being fully qualified for the post or even more qualified than Bugaje who had never been a Chief Lecturer, Dr. Umar also played unrivalled role in the stabilisation of the Polytechnic especially during the tenure of Bugaje as a result of which he was given the nickname-Stabiliser. As we mentioned in our earlier statement, the Present Acting Rector in collaboration with many other key staff of the polytechnic tremendously helped towards the sustenance of peace and stability in the institution at the time.
– Professor Bugaje’s assertion that he never sought renewal of term at Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa appears completely baseless in the face of the fact that, as contained in a White Paper on the report of the Visitation Panel on the institution and which we quoted in our last statement, the government at the time decided that “the second tenure of Dr. I. M Bugaje should not be renewed.” The contents of the White Paper have shown that the decision was taken on the basis of the confirmation of some serious allegations against him, one of which was existence of “strained relationship between Dr Bugaje and the immediate community.”
– His revelation that he served as the Director General of NARICT, Zaria for five years instead of the four years allowed by law indicated a clear case of illegality. This Forum not only wants to know wether he was illegally granted one year extension or he deliberately overstayed but also challenges him to explain the reason for the refusal of the government to renew his term.
Finally, we wish to re-iterate our call on President Muhammadu Buhari who is the Visitor to the Kaduna Polytechnic and on whose behalf the Governing Council under our respected elder Senator Mohammed Mohammed has taken the decision to re-appoint Dr. Suleiman Umar as the Acting Rector to urgently restrain Professor Idris Mohammed Bugaje from further interference in the administration of the institution.
Our Forum is fully convinced that the decision was taken in good faith and in full compliance with certain clear provisions of the Polytechnic Act particularly section 5, sub-section one which provides that the Governing Council “shall also have the power to do anything which in its opinion is calculated to facilitate the carrying out of the activities of the polytechnic and promotes its best interest.”
Signed:
Malam Musa Muhammad

Mr. Joseph Kazachan

https://tgnews.com.ng/2021/12/16/stakeholders-forum-flays-alleged-attempts-by-nbte-boss-to-destabilize-kadpoly/