₦airaland Forum

In pursuit of the Economic Sustainability Plan, the Buhari administration will on Friday launched the Solar Power Naija programme in Jigawa State commencing with the Jangefe Community which will get 1000 Solar Home Systems  connections.

The Vice-President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, will flag off the commencement of the installation in Jigawa, in what is part of a 100,000 scheme with A-SOLAR, a local solar power company implementing part of the ESP Solar Power Naija’s planned 5 million connections across the country.

The Ministry of Power through the Rural Electrification Agency, REA,  is the implementing public agency for the 5 million off-grid solar connections program (Solar Power Naija).

That program provides N140 billion in concessionary financing from the Central Bank of Nigeria and Commercial Banks for off-grid developers to rollout mini-grids and solar home systems that will cost from N3,000 per month (and up, depending on system type) to provide electricity to locations all across the country.

The event being flagged off by the VP marks the launch of 100,000 connections through a commercial partnership between A-Solar (a local developer), the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), and Sterling Bank.

The Jangefe community in Jigawa will be the first location covered by the A-Solar company and will have 1,000 Solar Home Systems installed across the community (covering about 5,000 citizens).
The community will pay monthly energy payments until the systems are fully paid for at the point which there will be a  transfer of ownership to each consumer in the community.
Jangefe community is in Roni LGA in the Kazaure Emirate of Jigawa State.

Jangefe is a rural farming community that uses the water bodies around the area for all year farming.
The economic activity in Jangefe provides the opportunity for the community to be powered and pay for consumption. A-Solar leveraged the Roni LGA and Kazaure Emirate Council to do mass sensitization for an understanding of the usage of the system and payment mechanisms.

Through a World Bank and REA program called the Nigerian Electrification Program (NEP), each connection under the Solar Power Naja program will receive a 20% rebate for the developer, thus allowing the rates charged to consumers to be reduced by the same amount.


https://dailytrust.com/osinbajo-flags-off-solar-power-connections-in-jigawa

REMARKS BY HIS EXCELLENCY PROF. YEMI OSINBAJO, SAN, GCON, VICE PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA, AT THE PUBLIC PRESENTATION OF THE BOOK, “THE MAKING OF THE NIGERIAN FLAGSHIP: A STORY OF THE GUARDIAN” AND CELEBRATION OF THE FOUNDER OF THE GUARDIAN NEWSPAPERS, MR ALEX U. IBRU (1945-2011) ON THE 8TH OF APRIL, 2021

PROTOCOLS

It is a delight to be part of this unveiling of a chapter of our history – a story that has not been told in full until now. The story of The Guardian Newspaper is significant, for the redefinition it meant for print media in Nigeria, and for its uniqueness in bringing public intellectuals and academics into journalism and breeding a generation of talented journalists.

However, to grasp the significance of The Guardian, it is important to situate its odyssey within the larger Nigerian story and particularly in the context of the evolution of the fourth estate in our country.

The Nigerian press has deep roots going back almost 150 years. Indeed, the Nigerian press came into existence before Nigeria itself and was instrumental to the birthing of this nation. It is no surprise that several luminaries of the anti-colonial and nationalist movements were also leading figures in the press: Nnamdi Azikiwe, Ernest Ikoli, Anthony Enahoro, Herbert Macaulay – all venerable figures in our pantheon of nationalist icons, first established themselves as journalists of repute in what was then emerging as the most vibrant and dynamic press in Africa.

Given its origins as the fulcrum of the nationalist struggle, it is not surprising that the relational dynamic between the Nigerian press and the Nigerian state was largely adversarial in the years after we gained our independence from the British. This dynamic was accentuated by the succession of military dictatorships that seized power following the collapse of the First Republic in 1966.

Since military rule is characterized chiefly by the abbreviation of civil liberties, the shrinking of civic spaces, and the imposition of constraints on freedom of expression, it was only logical for the press to find itself on the opposite side of a confrontation with the military regimes of that era. The peak of the tensions between the press and the military in the 1970s was the nationalization of the Daily Times.

It was in this illiberal and censorial climate that The Guardian was born. Right from its first edition which came out on February 27, 1983, The Guardian carved a niche for itself with a distinctive and sophisticated editorial style, linguistic elegance, good prose, and high-quality print standards.

Its mode of engagement was even-tempered, demonstrated in the deliberate moderation and thoughtfulness in its headlines and captions. Most of us will remember the news stories of the alleged death of the great Zik in 1989. Many newspapers ran screaming headlines “Zik is dead,” “the great Owelle of Onitsha passes on,” “Nigeria first President dies.” Some even reported the formation of a national burial committee, we all reached for The Guardian, whose headlines in typical "Guardianese" were simply, quote “Zik dead, alive, jubilation in Nsukka.”

Chude Pride a young journalist then had taken the trouble of investigating the story, with a visit to Chief Adeniran Ogunsanya, a longtime friend and confidant of Zik, who said he had just spoken to Zik. As it turned out, the great Zik was not only alive and well, but lived for almost another 7 years thereafter. Unfortunately, the gentleman touted as the burial committee chairman in some news reports passed on even well ahead of the great Zik.

The Guardian quickly set itself apart as an outpost of liberalism populated by intrepid journalists and keen-minded intellectuals devoted to freedom of thought and inquiry. Its op-ed pages quickly became the arena of choice for the defining public debates of the day.

The media landscape of the 1980s was not bereft of idealists, ideologues, and intellectuals with visions of remaking society. What was unique about The Guardian was that it represented a rare but potent combination of an abundance of ideas and a wealth of resources. It was a happy marriage of socially conscious intellection and missionary capital.

In other words, there was a cast of insightful thinkers with a profound understanding of the Nigerian media landscape, who were eager to make a change. But the change could not have happened without an entrepreneur who shared that vision, a co-visioner, Chief Olusegun Osoba, while Dr. Stanley Macebuh, Dr. Patrick Dele-Cole, Mr. Lade Bonuola, Mr. Femi Kusa, Dr. Eddie Iroh, later joined by Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi and Mr. Nick Nduwe formed some of the core team of thinkers behind The Guardian. Mr. Alex Ibru was that visionary investor that was courageous enough to trust the thinkers.

To find a businessman that could trust a group of intellectuals with editorial freedom in the treacherous socio-political climate of the time as Alex Ibru did, was clearly exceptional. His calm deportment belied his understanding of the terrain, his foresight, and his propensity for risk-taking. He truly typified the idea of the capitalist-driven by conscience. His courage of conviction exemplified in the actualization of The Guardian will remain indelible.

I have dwelt a bit on the nature of this partnership between people of means and people of ideas that gave us The Guardian because I believe that it is the sort of transformative synergy that we need to see more often especially in order to drive our quest for a better society. We need partnerships across the broad spectrum of civil society and the private sector.

The Guardian harked back to the proud and illustrious tradition of the Nigerian press that practiced journalism with a social mission and a commitment to speaking truth to power. It played an important role in the struggles that birthed our democracy, suffering proscription and the firebombing of its business offices at Rutam House. Alex Ibru, himself, narrowly survived an assassination attempt in which he was severely injured. Years later, I confronted the horror of the attack on him myself, when as Attorney General in Lagos, it was my lot to prosecute his assailants. It was a reflection of the terrible costs that journalists bore as they continued to heroically ply their craft as an act of resistance against tyranny.

For decades, the men and women that work at The Guardian have drawn inspiration from the immortal words of Uthman Dan Fodio on its masthead: “Conscience is an open wound. Only truth can heal it.” It is the role of journalists to tell the truth even when it is inconvenient. This mission has a special resonance in this day and age.

Even as we strive to make governance more transparent and accountable in its workings, and to abandon the habits of secrecy and opacity that became deeply ingrained during the era of military rule, we have realized that abuse of state power is not the only threat to the liberal tradition. Right now, we also have to deal with issues such as the proliferation of fake news.

Almost daily, fake news or mischievously manipulated news is trafficked with the clear intent of warping the perception of reality and inducing conflict.

It is said that journalism is the first rough draft of history. It is true that reportage shapes the perception and understanding of events. It shapes memories and can influence behaviour for good or for ill. There are arguably no bigger influencers than those who report and interpret the world to us. This is considerable power and it comes with responsibility.

About four decades ago, The Guardian set new standards that forever transformed the practice of journalism. Today a more complex media and information landscape require a corps of professionals to set new standards and raise the quality of the fare on offer.

The pioneers of The Guardian understood that journalism operates in a social context and cannot be value-neutral. This same cognitive commitment is incumbent upon all media practitioners today. We are at a time in our national odyssey in which retailers of discord and merchants of strife are working assiduously against our collective potential as a people. Creating commonality of purpose in ethnically and culturally diverse societies is challenging the world over. However, nation-building is not the sole preserve of politicians and governments; in fact, it is just as much a task for civil society of which the press is an important member.

It is true that freedom of expression is enshrined in our constitution, but we all agree that society, progress, and order depend upon the responsible exercise of freedom, otherwise, the end result will be anarchy. As we struggle to build our nation with the bricks of mutuality, plurality, and tolerance, I would suggest that those of us that stand as gatekeepers in the fourth estate must demonstrate a greater awareness of the sensibilities and sensitivities of our society.

I think in sum, what The Guardian has embodied in these past years is a fidelity to the principle of balance, objectivity, and fair-hearing, not only as a corporate culture but also as a moral obligation to the larger society; that insistence by the gatekeeper that leads are well investigated and reports are well researched before the copy is passed for publication. The restraint to leave out a claim when in doubt.

In summary, it is what, in my humble view, prequalifies a newspaper to become a marketplace of ideas or what the great American playwright, Arthur Miller, had in mind when he said, “A good newspaper is a nation talking to itself”. I think time and time again, The Guardian has shown that it is possible to be critical without being destructive, constructive, and not be compromised.

Perhaps what I like most about this book is that it is a mosaic of memories by different generations of The Guardian. It is also a reminder of just how many journalists passed through the paper during the course of their careers.

The Guardian is no longer just a newspaper house, but a public institution – one that has served as an exemplar and a model for generations of media practitioners who replicate its ethos and standards in different ways.

By documenting the rise of The Guardian, Aaron Ukodie and O’Seun Ogunseitan have additionally reminded us particularly of how the present can be shaped by the past. But more importantly, how what has been done merely reveals what more can be done.

We all must commend the authors and The Guardian Newspapers and especially the chief custodian of the legacy, Lady Maiden Alex-Ibru for broadening our understanding of history, for the appreciation of the present, and for inspiring the future. I wish you more success in the years ahead.

It is now my very special privilege and honour to present “The Making of the Nigerian Flagship, the Story of The Guardian.

God bless you all.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Released by:
Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
8th April 2021

VP not relegated, ex-IGP not with Osinbajo in Imo when sacked — Aide Akande


The former Inspector General of Police, IGP Mohammed Adamu, was not on official duty with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo when sacked, the Presidency has said.

A controversy had been created on the social media, the opposition querying why President Muhammadu Buhari would sack Adamu when on the entourage of Osinbajo during his state visit to Owerri if not that the VP had been isolated from government decisions.

But reacting on the matter, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Vice President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Laolu Akande, refuted this claim, saying it was unfounded, but the handiwork of mischief makers whose trade in stock was to spread falsehood.

He said those commenting didn’t understand the workings of government, contending that the uproar generated by the opposition after the sack of the former IGP Adamu over claims he was on the entourage of Vice President Osinbajo as of that time was needless.

Akande, who didn’t deny the presence of Adamu in Owerri, the Imo State capital on Tuesday, the same day Osinbajo visited, stressed that, “the former IGP was leaving town when Osinbajo arrived.”

Vice President Osinbajo was on a state visit to Owerri, on Tuesday, to assess the extent of damage done by the gunmen who attacked the state’s Correctional Centre and the Police Command, but his spokesman said, the former IGP was not on the entourage of his principal during the state visit.

Akande said, “The sacked IGP came on his own to the state, while Osinbajo was in Imo on a previous invitation by the governor to commission some projects.”

On those who came to Imo State with Vice President Osinbajo, his spokesman, Akande, informed that, “He was accompanied on the visit by the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Clem Agba; Minister of State for Steel and Mines Development, Uchechukwu Ogah; and the Special Adviser to the President on Political Affairs, Senator Babafemi Ojudu.”

According to Akande, “After commissioning the project, the Vice President then visited the Correctional facility, and the state Police Command attacked on Monday. During the visit to the burnt facilities, the Interior Minister joined the VP delegation. The former IGP was leaving town when Osinbajo arrived. They were on absolutely different missions.

“The Vice President already had a scheduled official working visit to Imo State to commission some projects at the instance of the state government, and he only used the opportunity to visit scenes of the attacks that happened recently in Owerri, as a concerned and empathic leader.

“It is interesting to also note that the VP and the former police boss never met in Owerri, as the former IGP was already on his way back to Abuja when the VP’s aircraft was about to touch down and every other flight was put on hold, including that of the former IGP, for the presidential jet to be cleared first. The former IGP was in Imo state, but he didn’t go there with the VP.”

For those who said the VP had been isolated from the happenings in government, Akande said, “it is good to note that, the VP is still overseeing the 2.3 trillion naira Nigeria Economic Sustainability Plan (NESP), as chairman of the Economic Sustainability Committee (ESC), which was charged with the task of pulling Nigeria out of the recession occasioned by the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic; an assignment that had already produced tangible and measurable result by bringing the country out of recession even faster than stronger economies affected by the same pandemic.

“Recall also that the VP was the same person who summoned the immediate past IGP before President Buhari over #EndSARS and didn’t stop there but also ensured that at least 30 states in Nigeria set up judicial panels of inquiry to investigate allegations of police brutality and compensate victims accordingly.
“A Vice President who chairs the Nation’s Economic Council (NEC) and has been playing an active role in the social investment programmes of the Buhari administration, which has been confirmed to be the most ambitious social investment programmes in Africa, however, cannot be said to be relegated, sleepy or sidelined.”


https://thedailyleaks.com/vp-not-relegated-ex-igp-not-with-osinbajo-in-imo-when-sacked-aide-akande/

The former Inspector General of Police, IGP Mohammed Adamu, was not on official duty with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo when sacked, the Presidency has said.

A controversy had been created on the social media, the opposition querying why President Muhammadu Buhari would sack Adamu when on the entourage of Osinbajo during his state visit to Owerri if not that the VP had been isolated from government decisions.

But reacting on the matter, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Vice President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Laolu Akande, refuted this claim, saying it was unfounded, but the handiwork of mischief makers whose trade in stock was to spread falsehood.

He said those commenting didn’t understand the workings of government, contending that the uproar generated by the opposition after the sack of the former IGP Adamu over claims he was on the entourage of Vice President Osinbajo as of that time was needless.

Akande, who didn’t deny the presence of Adamu in Owerri, the Imo State capital on Tuesday, the same day Osinbajo visited, stressed that, “the former IGP was leaving town when Osinbajo arrived.”

Vice President Osinbajo was on a state visit to Owerri, on Tuesday, to assess the extent of damage done by the gunmen who attacked the state’s Correctional Centre and the Police Command, but his spokesman said, the former IGP was not on the entourage of his principal during the state visit.

Akande said, “The sacked IGP came on his own to the state, while Osinbajo was in Imo on a previous invitation by the governor to commission some projects.”

On those who came to Imo State with Vice President Osinbajo, his spokesman, Akande, informed that, “He was accompanied on the visit by the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Clem Agba; Minister of State for Steel and Mines Development, Uchechukwu Ogah; and the Special Adviser to the President on Political Affairs, Senator Babafemi Ojudu.”

According to Akande, “After commissioning the project, the Vice President then visited the Correctional facility, and the state Police Command attacked on Monday. During the visit to the burnt facilities, the Interior Minister joined the VP delegation. The former IGP was leaving town when Osinbajo arrived. They were on absolutely different missions.

“The Vice President already had a scheduled official working visit to Imo State to commission some projects at the instance of the state government, and he only used the opportunity to visit scenes of the attacks that happened recently in Owerri, as a concerned and empathic leader.

“It is interesting to also note that the VP and the former police boss never met in Owerri, as the former IGP was already on his way back to Abuja when the VP’s aircraft was about to touch down and every other flight was put on hold, including that of the former IGP, for the presidential jet to be cleared first. The former IGP was in Imo state, but he didn’t go there with the VP.”

For those who said the VP had been isolated from the happenings in government, Akande said, “it is good to note that, the VP is still overseeing the 2.3 trillion naira Nigeria Economic Sustainability Plan (NESP), as chairman of the Economic Sustainability Committee (ESC), which was charged with the task of pulling Nigeria out of the recession occasioned by the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic; an assignment that had already produced tangible and measurable result by bringing the country out of recession even faster than stronger economies affected by the same pandemic.

“Recall also that the VP was the same person who summoned the immediate past IGP before President Buhari over #EndSARS and didn’t stop there but also ensured that at least 30 states in Nigeria set up judicial panels of inquiry to investigate allegations of police brutality and compensate victims accordingly.
“A Vice President who chairs the Nation’s Economic Council (NEC) and has been playing an active role in the social investment programmes of the Buhari administration, which has been confirmed to be the most ambitious social investment programmes in Africa, however, cannot be said to be relegated, sleepy or sidelined.”


https://thedailyleaks.com/vp-not-relegated-ex-igp-not-with-osinbajo-in-imo-when-sacked-aide-akande/

Osinbajo for the youths

Baawahala:
H.Y.P.O.C.R.I.T.E

that’s your middle name

Oweku:
Osibanjo... Is that d name of a car?

na dem EWU Biafra

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT

WHY WE MUST REJECT AGENTS OF ANARCHY - OSINBAJO IN IMO

*VP adds: the path of violence can only lead to disaster

*Says Govt will further strengthen security

Nigerians must come together and reject the agents of anarchy seeking to cause chaos for their own selfish interests, especially as there are many more who are working tirelessly to build up the country's system and to enhance it, according to Vice President Yemi, SAN.

Prof Osinbajo stated this on Tuesday during a one-day visit to Owerri, Imo State, where he commissioned a road project executed by the State government. While in town, the VP also visited Imo State Police Headquarters and the Owerri Correctional Centre, both of which were attacked in the early hours of yesterday.

The Vice President, who condemned the attacks as an assault on the way of life of the good people of the state, further noted that, “our system is not perfect – no earthly system is – but democracy provides channels for seeking redress for injury, for peacefully addressing the problems that ail us.

“There are many who are working tirelessly to improve our system, to build it up and to enhance it. We must, therefore, reject the agents of anarchy that are seeking to weaponize the frustration and discontent of our young people for their own profit.

“The path of violence can only lead to a disaster that consumes everyone and leads to the desolation of our communities. It is easy to take peace for granted, but we need not learn the value of peace through the horrible crucible of war.”

Calling on Nigerians to reject groups that want to sow violence and destruction, the Vice President, referring to those who may be behind the Monday attacks, said, “we must reject any attempt to portray these criminal elements as anything other than representatives of their own malice and hatred. They do not represent the good people of this state and this geopolitical zone.

"Anyone who perpetrates violence does not represent the progressive mindedness of the good people of this State and this zone. And I call on all of us to come together to resist any attempt to turn the progress and peace that this zone is set to experience to conflict and disruption."

Continuing, he said, “an attack on the critical institutions of law enforcement, police stations and prisons is an attack on the safety, security and well-being of the citizens. It is not merely an assault on law and order, it is a mindless attack on the people and our way of life.

“When you attack police stations and free dangerous criminals, you put men, women, children and their possessions and livelihoods at risk. Whatever the motives of the perpetrators, this action is egregious and atrocious in the extreme, and all men and women of goodwill must openly condemn this assault on the way of life of the good people of the state.”

Prof. Osinbajo assured the people of the state that “the security in this city and the State has, since yesterday, been further enhanced and we are set to strengthen security capacity even more here.”

The VP noted that the search for the escaped inmates of the Correctional Centre has begun in earnest.

"I want to commend the Governor of the State for his calm, measured, but firm handling of the security situation in the State. The Federal Government stands with you and the great people of Imo State at this crucial time,” he added.

On the newly built road, the Vice President said, “this aligns with Mr. President’s own belief that the building of roads, rail, power, digital technology and other infrastructural assets must be the first priority for economic development.”

He noted, while congratulating the Governor, that, “Africa’s largest economy can only provide opportunities for its huge population if it runs on modern infrastructure.”

Earlier in his remarks, Governor Hope Uzodinma thanked the Vice President for the visit to commission the road project and see for himself the destruction of the State Police Command Headquarters and the Correctional Centre, noting that the people remain confident of the ability and support of the Federal Government in addressing challenges confronting the state.

Shortly after commissioning the 3 km-long Dick Tiger Road covering more than 10 streets, including the Dick Tiger Street, the Vice President - accompanied by Governor Hope Uzodinma, some ministers, the State Deputy Governor and other dignitaries from the State - visited the State Police Command Headquarters and the Correctional Centre in Owerri to assess the level of damage at the facilities.

On the Vice President’s entourage to the State were the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; Minister of State, Mines and Steel Development, Mr Uche Ogah; Minister of State, Budget and National Planning, Mr Clem Agba; and the Special Adviser to the President on Political Affairs, Sen. Babafemi Ojudu, among other dignitaries.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
7th April, 2021

Osinbajo to the world

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE 

OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT

*INNOCENT CHUKWUMA WAS A THOROUGHBRED SOCIAL ACTIVIST, OSINBAJO SAYS IN TRIBUTE*

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, has expressed deep sadness over the passing of the Director of Ford Foundation, West Africa, Innocent Chukwuma, who died on Saturday, April 3.
 
Prof. Osinbajo also commiserated with the family members, friends and associates of the late civil society leader, noting that Nigeria has lost a "thoroughbred social activist" whose "relentless pursuit of justice and the common good will be an enduring legacy."
 
In a personal tribute on Monday, the Vice President described the late Chukwuma as a "friend and collaborator of many years."
 
He said, "I was greatly saddened by the news of the passing of Innocent Chukwuma, a thoroughbred social activist, my friend and collaborator of many years. Innocent, then in CLEEN Foundation, was a crucial resource in Police reform in support of our justice reform efforts in Lagos State in my time as Attorney-General.
 
"Also, as Ford Foundation Lead in West Africa, he was first amongst others to support our work in the Office of the Vice President, OVP, in the setting up of the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption, PACAC, and most recently, in the Police reform efforts of the Federal Government.
 
"His thoughtful, knowledge-driven, drama-free, but relentless pursuit of justice and the common good will be an enduring legacy.
 
"We pray for God’s comfort for his wife, family and loved ones, and blessings on his memory and legacy always."
 
*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*5th April, 2021*

EBONYI ATTACKS: NO ILLUSIONS, WE 'LL ENSURE JUSTICE FOR VICTIMS, BEEF UP SECURITY, SAYS OSINBAJO*

_*I’m here on behalf of the President, VP tells affected communities_

_*Adds: Relief materials will be provided to help rebuild affected communities_

The Federal Government will do everything to ensure that security is beefed up in communities affected by recent communal clashes and violent attacks in Ebonyi State, while ensuring justice for victims, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

He condemned the attacks, and sympathized with the victims, describing such acts as cowardly, wicked and “very deeply distressing.”

Prof. Osinbajo stated this on Easter Sunday afternoon during a visit to Ebonyi State after attending Resurrection Sunday service at the Aso Villa Chapel.

At the State, the Vice President stopped at the Egedegede community in Ishielu Local Government Area, which suffered suspected herdsmen attacks recently and Ezza/Effium communities in Ohaukwu Local Government Area where communal clashes had occurred. Announcing at each stop that he is visiting at the direction of the President, the VP later held an interactive session with stakeholders at the State capital before returning to Abuja late last night.

The Vice President was accompanied on the visit to the affected areas by the Ebonyi State Governor, Engr. David Umahi, who received him at his first stop at Ishielu LGA. He had earlier been welcomed by the Enugu State Governor, Mr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu from where he drove to Ebonyi State.

On the VP's delegation were the Information and Culture Minister Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Steel & Mines Development Minister of State Mr. Uche Ogah and the Special Adviser on Political Affairs to the President, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, among other dignitaries.

According to the Vice President, “there is no way we can, by saying sorry, fully compensate for the lives that have been lost and property destroyed. I want you to know that one way we can do something is by seeking justice and providing for the families of those who have lost their homes and we would do so.”

He added that government will ensure justice is done and the perpetrators brought to book, while urging the people of the communities to remain calm and avoid reprisal attacks.

Said the Vice President: “let me assure you that we will seek justice on behalf of those who have died not just because they are Nigerians, but because they are human beings and they deserve justice.

“Anybody who watches another person killed next to him and does not feel angry and pained, and doesn’t feel the person deserves justice must answer to God ultimately. So, don’t be under any illusion, we will make sure so long as it lies within our power, that we will seek justice and get justice.

“Which is why I will urge you as you have done, and you have done the right thing in my view, you have peacefully presented the case, you have very peacefully conducted yourselves, reported to the authorities and sought the right support from the government.

“It is up to the government to provide the best that they can. But we must be careful also not to seek revenge because we don’t know where it will end.”

Assuring the people of improved security in the affected areas, the Vice President stated that government will beef up the security in the communities to forestall a reoccurrence.

“We are in conversation with the GOC and the Army, about ensuring that there is more security provided here. I know that the GOC has already made more provisions but obviously, there is a need for even greater security provided here,” he said.

At the Ezza and Effium communities in Ohaukwu LGA, the VP noted that the President was extremely concerned about the recent unfortunate incidents.

“Mr. President was particularly concerned about these, and of course, we spoke to the governor and he-the President-thought it would be good for me to come here on his behalf to speak to the communities, especially the leadership of the community.

“I want to say that it is a very deeply distressing thing and I sympathize not just with the governor and the people of Ebonyi State, but in particular, the people of the communities that have been affected,” he said.

While emphasizing the need for politicians and other category of leaders to prioritize the welfare of their people, Prof. Osinbajo stated that, “politicians who try and create a crisis by milking the death of their people...that is completely irresponsible.

“There is no excuse for it. It is the duty of leaders, political leaders to moderate their statements and to make sure that their statements don't worsen matters and create a crisis,” he added.

The Vice President added that the Federal Government will collaborate with the State Government to ensure peace in the affected areas and justice for the victims of the separate incidents.

Noting some of the steps articulated by the National Economic Council (NEC) to resolve lingering conflict in communities across the country, Prof. Osinbajo said, “we (both the Federal Government and State Governments) will jointly pursue the ends of justice. We will also make provisions, as much as it is possible, between the Federal and State Governments, for those who have lost their lives, for their relations and whatever can be done to support those communities.”

He added that the National emergency Management Authority (NEMA) would assess the incidents so as to provide support to victims and help in rebuilding the affected communities.

According to the VP, “the first line of peace is the community itself and the leadership of the community. As I've said to His excellency, the Governor, who as you've heard from everybody, has done an excellent job of trying to ensure that peace is brought and returned to this place.

“I have said to him, - yes, we'll make sure that we commit to bringing more military, more police, more law enforcement and whatever we can do about rebuilding the communities, rebuilding houses that have been destroyed, providing succour to those who need it in form of reliefs from NEMA. The federal government will do its very best, but we must make sure as community leaders that we take responsibility.”

Later at a townhall-like interactive session with community leaders and stakeholders across the state in Abakaliki, the Vice President assured the people of Ebonyi of the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that lasting peace returns to Ebonyi and elsewhere in the country.

He however urged all leaders in the state to resist all temptations of revenge attacks on communities noting that “no conflict that started anywhere in recent time has ended.”

On his part, Governor Umahi, while thanking the President, Vice President and the entire Federal Government for the steps taken so far to address the concerns, noted that justice and fairness were the only demands requested by the people of the state.

He appealed to the Vice President to support the rebuilding of the affected areas even as measures should be taken to provide immediate relief to displaced persons.

Other dignitaries that accompanied the Vice President on the visit include Ebonyi State Deputy Governor, Mr. Kelechi Igwe, the former State Governor Martin Elechi, top Ebonyi State officials and senior officials from several FG security agencies among others.

*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
5th April, 2021

VP says there will be grace and mercy


As Christians all over the world celebrate the Easter season, Nigerians should have great hope that things are going to get better for the country, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this during a brief chat with journalists after the Easter Sunday service at the Aso Villa Chapel earlier today.

"I just want to thank God for our nation, and pray that our nation will experience the grace and mercy of God in so many different ways that we are expecting His grace and mercy. All will be well in Jesus name," the Vice President said.

While wishing Nigerians a Happy Easter celebration, the VP added that the message of Easter is a message of the special and exceeding love and grace of God.

He said, "God's plan for humanity was that Christ will die and will resurrect. The resurrection is evidence of the fact that those who believe would be saved eternally and would live eternal joy and peace with the Almighty. And that promise is open to every single person.

"Whoever you are, that promise is open to you. That is, if you subscribe to that plan, if you accept that Christ died for you and rose again, and that the plan is fulfilled in the resurrection."

Prof. Osinbajo further stated that the Easter season was one "of great joy because we celebrate the evidence of the plan of God. In some way, God has given us a receipt of our salvation and it's really exciting."

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity
Office of the Vice President
4th April, 2021

In line with company’s strategy to grow Small and Medium Enterprises(SMEs) in the country, AXA Mansard Insurance PLC, a member of the AXA Group and global leader in insurance and asset management, has unveiled its ‘Business Insurance Plan in Lagos to  serve Nigerians better.’.

The Business Insurance Plan (BIP) is a one-stop insurance solution that addresses the business risk exposures of small and medium enterprises. It is a pot-pourri of highly beneficial insurance risks management solutions bundled together. These solutions include Business Content, Group Personal Accident, SME Life, Health Care, Public Liability, Optional Covers, Professional Indemnity, Comprehensive Motor, Stock and General Conditions. 

Every business comes with a certain amount of risk. Although pitfalls and challenges cannot be avoided, but they can be mitigated with the proper precautions, planning, and Insurance coverage. These risks and pitfalls are what the Business Insurance Plan seeks to address.

The BIP is available for purchase seamlessly on the company’s transaction website. www.axamansard.com. Purchases can also be made through sales agents and at any of our offices nationwide.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of the company, Kunle Ahmed stated, “Our aim is to deliver the appropriate solutions for small to medium enterprises at a competitive price. It is our expectation that this product will enable the SMEs hedge the risks they face and focus on strategizing and growing their businesses knowing that they are protected.”

With 17.4 million SMEs in Nigeria, the role they play in the growth & development cannot be overemphasized. They are a significant force in reducing unemployment and accelerating GDP growth. We are therefore very excited to be able to provide this innovative solution that ensures they continue to thrive.

The Chief Client Officer, Mrs Rashidat Adebisi stated that “the driving force behind the development of this product is AXA’s purpose which is to “Act for human progress by protecting what matters”. At AXA Mansard, we care about people and their businesses, therefore we constantly listen, think and innovate.”

AXA Mansard is registered as a composite company with the National Insurance Commission of Nigeria (NAICOM). The Company offers life and non-life insurance products and services to individuals and institutions across Nigeria whilst also offering asset/investment management services and health insurance solutions through- AXA Mansard Investments Limited and AXA Mansard Health Limited respectively. The parent company was listed on the Nigeria Stock Exchange in November 2009.

This administration has done well in supporting MSMEs.

Shabaleen:
Audio support

Audio brain spotted here

You have spearheaded key economic reforms in this country, Emir of Gombe tells VP

BELOW ARE THE REMARKS BY THE EMIR OF GOMBE, ALHAJI ABUBAKAR SHEHU ABUBAKAR III, DURING THE COURTESY VISIT OF THE VICE PRESIDENT, PROF YEMI OSINBAJO,SAN, AT THE EMIR’S PALACE ON THE 30TH OF MARCH, 2021


Your visit today affirms the commitment of the Federal Government under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, and the support that you give our people.

I would like to commend the Federal Government for its compelling efforts towards the economic development of our people especially in the area of agriculture and small-scale businesses. Gombe is an agrarian State and also a hub of trade and commerce in the Northeast.

I believe what you see today will avail you the opportunity to see firsthand, the impact and nature of our people and the numerous successes of our businesses.

We are on board with the National Livestock Transformation Plan which you chair.

Your presence here today is in line with your role as the “economic driver” of the country. Through your role as the Chairman of the National Economic Council, you have spearheaded important reforms in the area of ease of doing business, enhancing ICT innovation, as well as economic policies to reduce the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This demonstrates your own role in the Buhari administration and a lot of confidence that Mr. President reports on you.

We in the North are closely following your steady achievements; first as a successful legal professor, a religious leader and now as the Vice President of Nigeria.

We are studying your humility and grace; we appreciate you and we pray for more success in your journey.

I feel particularly honoured by your visit to us and to Gombe for the MSME clinic. This demonstrates your respect for the traditional institution and the strong bond of friendship between yourself and the good people of Gombe.

President Buhari departs Abuja to London for Routine Medical Check-Up on 30th Mar 2021

PRESIDENT BUHARI BILLED FOR ROUTINE MEDICAL CHECK-UP IN LONDON

President Muhammadu Buhari proceeds to London, the United Kingdom, Tuesday March 30, 2021, for a routine medical check-up.

The President meets with Security Chiefs first in the morning, after which he embarks on the journey.

He is due back in the country during the second week of April, 2021.

Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
March 29, 2021

Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo virtually delivered his remarks as the Special Guest of Honor at 12th Bola Ahmed Tinubu Colloquium.
29th March, 2021

Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) will be physically absent at the 12th Bola Ahmed Tinubu Colloquium, schedule to hold in Kano today.

He was on course to Kano this morning until weather condition aborted his travel plans.

This was disclosed in a tweet by the Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President, Media and Publicity, Mr. Laolu Akande.

Osinbajo will alongside President Buhari join the 12th BAT Colloquium virtually from the Presidential Villa.

https://twitter.com/akandeoj/status/1376481126659817475?s=21

A Nigerian youth and shoemaker, known as OJ Best on Twitter, has praised the Vice – President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, for being supportive of Nigerian start-ups and generally the youth.
OJBest some few months ago had requested via a tweet to present a gift of his own made footwear to the Vice – President.
In response to the tweet, Prof. Osinbajo, a strident advocate of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises sent his aides to visit the young entrepreneur exploring how to support the young Shoemaker and his Made in Nigeria products.
Osinbajo later invited the young Nigerian entrepreneur to Aso Rock presidential villa where OJBest decided to take his measurements for some footwears.

In his testimony afterward, an excited OJ Best tweeted “ I really cannot contain my joy in expressing this.. this is a dream I never thought would happen.”
He further described President Muhammadu Buhari’s deputy as a friend to the MSMEs.
@objebest5 tweet reads: “I really can not contain my joy in expressing this.. this is a dream I never thought would happen. Words has failed me and I may not use the appropriate words but I really want to thank his Excellency @ProfOsinbajo for his patronage and support for ojbest footwear..”.
“I was in the office of the vice present to take measurements of his feet and later returned to make delivery of the order. Never have I seen a man as humble, simple and ready to support like His Excellency. He is highly friendly and jovial and this made my communication with him easy.”
“… My initial tweet was to gift a pair of my product and meet him in person, this has been fulfilled I am greatly happy to see that His Excellency uses my product with joy and satisfaction… Once again thank you so much for your patronage @ProfOsinbajo I am most grateful.”
OJBest visited the Vice President last Monday to present the sandals and yesterday March 27- Saturday, Prof. Osinbajo’s Personal Photographer revealed him wearing the sandals for the weekend while meeting guests at his residence in the Villa.
Presidential aides who facilitated the connection and support OJBest besides members of the VP’S media team included Dr. Ebi Awosika, the Senior Technical Assistant on Community Engagements and Mr. Tola Adekunle Johnson, the well known Presidential Assistant on MSMES.


Celebrating the feat, Nigerians on social media appreciated the VP for taking the lead in the support of made in Nigerian products.
Omoniyi Adekunle wrote: “Mr Ojbest, congratulations on this ground breaking achievement. I’m also a Nigerian as you, kindly use this opportunity to tell our VP @ProfOsinbajo that I do Graphics and this is one of my creations.”
Another twitter user, Obaleye Jolayemi said “Leading by example. Use made in Nigeria.”
While congratulating him, S.G Olayemi said “Happy for him. My helper will locate me today. What about you?…”


https://thenationonlineng.net/osinbajo-lauded-for-supporting-nigerian-start-ups-youths/

"I have never seen a humble, supportive man like Osinbajo" - says Shoemaker Omale Ojima a.k.a OJBest, who tweeted at VP

*VP's Personal Photographer also reveals photo showing Osinbajo wearing OJBest sandals

A Nigerian youth and shoemaker, known as OJ Best on Twitter, has praised the Vice - President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo SAN, for being supportive of Nigerian start-ups and generally the youth.

OJBest some few months ago had requested via a tweet to present a gift of his own made footwear to the Vice - President.

In response to the tweet, Prof. Osinbajo, a strident advocate of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises sent his aides to visit the young entrepreneur exploring how to support the young Shoemaker and his Made in Nigeria products.

Osinbajo later invited the young Nigerian entrepreneur to Aso Rock presidential villa where OJBest decided to take his measurements for some footwears.

In his testimony afterward, an excited OJ Best tweeted  “ I really cannot contain my joy in expressing this.. this is a dream I never thought would happen”.

He further described President Muhammadu Buhari’s deputy as a friend to the MSMEs.

@objebest5 tweet reads: “I really can not contain my joy in expressing this.. this is a dream I never thought would happen. Words has failed me and I may not use the appropriate words but I really want to thank his Excellency @ProfOsinbajo for his patronage and support for ojbest footwear..”.

“I was in the office of the vice present to take measurements of his feet and later returned to make delivery of the order. Never have I seen a man as humble, simple and ready to support like His Excellency. He is highly friendly and jovial and this made my communication with him easy."

“... My initial tweet was to gift a pair of my product and meet him in person, this has been fulfilled  I am greatly happy to see that His Excellency uses my product with joy and satisfaction... Once again thank you so much for your patronage @ProfOsinbajo I am most grateful”.

OJBest visited the VP last Monday to present the sandals and yesterday March 27- Saturday, Prof. Osinbajo's Personal Photographer revealed him wearing the sandals for the weekend while meeting guests at his residence in the Villa.

Presidential aides who facilitated the connection and support OJBest besides members of the VP'S media team included Dr. Ebi Awosika, the Senior Technical Assistant on Community Engagements and Mr. Tola Adekunle Johnson, the well known Presidential Assistant on MSMES.


Celebrating the feat, Nigerians on social media appreciated the VP for taking the lead in the support of made in Nigerian products.

Omoniyi Adekunle wrote: “Mr Ojbest, congratulations on this ground breaking achievement. I'm also a Nigerian as you, kindly use this opportunity to tell our VP @ProfOsinbajo that I do Graphics and this is one of my creations”.


Another twitter user, Obaleye Jolayemi said “Leading by example. Use made in Nigeria”.

While congratulating him, S.G Olayemi said “Happy for him. My helper will locate me today. What about you?...”

Kudos to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo for the idea of setting up judicial panel of enquiries.

VP Osinbajo was seen wearing the shoes

More pix

slivertongue:
OK.
VP trader moni

your mates are fixing their lives while you remain an Internet troll.

The VP’s official photographer, Tolani Alli captures this development in 6 P’s.

I: Providence
It is more than a mere act of divine arrangement, providence works with intense intentionality.

Story Time: So this guy, OjBest, tweeted at the @profosinbajo about his shoe craft and while it’s not always likely he sees these things, he saw this one.

Oj wanted to gift him a shoe & also use that opportunity to further expose his craftsmanship to the world. Remember shoot your shot(he did), it worked out and @profosinbajo even ordered a pair of a sandal he likes to wear and provided a sample for OJ

II: Preparation

Providence loves to work with preparation. Unknown to OjBest, he met a VP prepared to embrace his story, especially if there was quality to back it up. You see @profosinbajo is very loud when it comes to championing Made in Nigeria for Export (MINE) products.

To him, it's more than another government policy to elevate MSMEs, he really believes in it. He buys Nigerian to use, not for optics.

III: Proficiency

Providence, like a lake, loves to empty itself into the ocean of proficiency. Standing before the right person is great, but you MUST be proficient enough to offer unmistakable value and quality, that’s your staying power (more on this later).

Yes “shoot your shot”, but is your shot quality?

IV: Prose

Words matter and regardless of your religion predilection, many can identify with Proverbs Chapter 22:29 "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings".

I am sure a lot of you have always translated this verse largely for the luxury of prose and candor. However, this experience made me have a rethink. To stand before Kings, can it mean more than that? Can it be to receive kingly insight to becoming a king in your own right?

OjBest offered to gift the shoes to the VP; but the VP insisted on paying for the service offered and then went on to use the moment to imprint on him about always knowing and stating your value in order to succeed as an Entrepreneur.

IV Projection

There was skepticism. "He won't wear it", voices said of the VP. See, people don’t always project who you are, they project who THEY think you are or worse, who they think you should be. Zero out of 10 times though, they are wrong.

The VP did wear the shoes today and will almost certainly wear more shoes from Oj (see my prior point on staying power).
The words that came to my heart when I noticed him wearing the shoes today on his way to a meeting in the garden?! He walks his talk.

VI: Parting Point

Seldom listen to skepticism when your gun is loaded with powder...this is your value on your journey to greatness. Greatness if you succeed and lesson that will shape your greatness if you don’t.

Good evening.

#TolaniAlli #TheHat #Storyteller

https://twitter.com/tolanialli/status/1375922576799584256?s=19

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zMdnx08AZBI

Presidential media aide, Laolu Akande, salutes Senator Ojudu Babafemi at 60.

As it is with WhatsApp, I stumbled upon an article with the title "Osinbajo's Stealth Christianization Agenda" by a faceless and apparently nameless Dr M. A. The article makes for good reading if you have some time to spare reading gossips, but for those who understand and follow the activities and appointments by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, it is most laughable. The so-called Dr M. A. sought to drive a wedge between the Muslims from Southwest of Nigeria and the Vice President by pushing an emotional set of lies, many of which bordered around his time in the Presidency since 2015.

The article claimed that Osinbajo has appointed more Christians particularly from the Redeeemed Christian Church of God but could only manage to come up with five names, four of whom the Vice President did not appoint. They are DG, Budget Office (Ben Akabueze); DG, BPE (Alex Okoh) and Minister of Trade & Investment (2015 - 2019) Okey Enelamah, to appointing MD, Bank of Industry (Kayode Pitan) and Ben Ovwiosu and Akin Akinwale, (both Executive Commissioners, PENCOM).

The only appointment the Vice President made was that of Kayode Pitan who replaced Mr. Waheed Olagunju, then acting managing director of the Bank of Industry, claiming that Osinbajo has never appointed a Yoruba Muslim.

The writer claimed that Osinbajo has been trying to Christianise Nigeria just like many have accused his boss, President Muhammadu Buhari, of trying to Islamise Nigeria and of course, the writer stated categorically that Osinbajo will not be President in 2023, which I think was the reason for the misinformation and disinformation in the first place.

Let’s separate the facts from fiction. The highest ranking member of Prof Osinbajo’s team is Ade Abdulrahman Ipaye and he is a Muslim from the Southwest. Mr Ipaye is the Deputy Chief of Staff and he sits in almost all of the VP’s meetings.

The positions following the Deputy Chief of Staff’s in the order of hierarchy, are the Special Advisers in the office of the Vice President. Here, there are three Special Advisers and two out of the three Special Advisers are Muslims; Senator Babafemi Ojudu from Ekiti State and Barrister Mariam Uwais from Kano State.

The Senior Special Assistant on Legal Matters, Dr. Balkisu Saidu is also a Muslim, as a matter of fact, she was once quoted on BBC Hausa as saying that, “If you look at the remaining senior positions in that office, most of them are in the hands of Muslims from the North.

“For instance, the person in charge of Protocol (i.e. the Director of Protocol) is Ambassador Abdullahi Gwary from Yobe State; those in charge of welfare and health in the Office of the Vice President are mostly Muslims and from the North.

“Worthy of note are the stewards, those who serve the Vice President’s meals, they are mostly Muslims, so what do the critics mean when they talk about religion?” she quizzed.

What about other engagements with Yoruba Muslims and Muslims across the world? Last year, on October 1, Prof. Osinbajo graced the NASFAT Youth Virtual Independence Seminar. Of course there are many more engagements similar to this.

He has also been invited by Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), the highest Muslim Council in Nigeria, to speak on a number of occasions.

He was present at the interactive session with Muslim Professionals from across the six states of the southwest in 2019. It is also important to note that his engagements with Muslims are not only local but international. One event that comes to mind is the Sixth Assembly of the Forum for Promoting Peace in Muslim Societies in Abu Dhabi, UAE where he was invited to speak.

Also, after that event at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi, he met with Sheik Mohammed Al Nayan, the Crown Prince of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

What’s more, Emirs and Muslim leaders have in the past spoken glowingly of Osinbajo, with the Emir of Daura labelling him a symbol of loyalty and trustworthiness, “When you, VP Osinbajo talk about loyalty and trustworthiness among the political class, you stand as an example worthy of note”.

Former Kwara State Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed, described Vice President Osinbajo as one who “exhibits humility, giving everyone a sense of belonging.”

Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar, CFR also described his leadership style as “divine”.

Certainly, Dr M. A. is a lone voice in this propaganda against the Vice President of Nigeria, who has acted in good faith to all religions and ethnicity. He/she certainly does not represent the Yoruba/Southwest Muslims in anyway. It is clear that his article is a calculated attempt to smear the VP ahead of the 2023 Presidential election, perceiving him a threat.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT

PLANNING AN ECONOMY THAT WORKS FOR ALL NIGERIANS, BY OSINBAJO

*VP adds: Mr President’s priority is how to lift 100m Nigerians out of poverty

In order to bring about a society and economy that works for all especially the poor and vulnerable, Nigeria’s national development plans must among other things, promote economic diversification, be modern, ambitious, realistic, flexible enough to absorb shocks and adapt to swiftly changing national and international conditions, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this on Friday in a keynote address delivered virtually at the 19th meeting of the National Council on Development Planning themed “National Development Planning in Nigeria: Issues and Challenges”.

According to the Vice President, “It is generally agreed that the primary purpose of planning in our economy is to accelerate growth and development outcomes that will improve the lives of Nigerians.

“To be meaningful, our planning processes must lead to tangible outcomes in the form of growth that exceeds population growth. Indeed, our plans must bring about an economy and society that works for all Nigerians.”

Referencing the Buhari administration’s Social Investment Programmes (SIPs) as an example of deliberate efforts aimed at ensuring inclusive growth, the Vice President said that an aspect of national planning that is often overlooked is how to manage distributional outcomes in a rapidly changing economic environment.

“This point is readily understood if we recall that the strength of feelings on issues like the national minimum wage or indeed the deregulation of PMS prices is related to their expected impact on the poor segments of society.

“It is accordingly important when drawing up national plans to take account of the interests of the more vulnerable members of society. This is why social investment and social protection are at the heart of the Buhari Administration’s policy interventions.

“Indeed, top of mind for Mr President is how to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in this decade as we radically re-engineer the productive base of our economy in agriculture, manufacturing, mining and the digital and creative sectors,” the Vice President explained.

Summarizing the core objectives and targets of a desirable national development plan for the country, the Vice President emphasized that “our development plans must be inclusive and promote economic diversification”.

His words: “They must promote coordination among the various tiers of government as well as coordination between ministries, departments and agencies at all levels.

“Our plans must also be modern and ambitious and yet realistic and flexible enough to absorb shocks and adapt to swiftly changing domestic and international conditions

“Our plans must accelerate domestic resource mobilization and build capacities for planning, implementation and must create the best possible environment for the private sector to invest and operate

“At the core of thinking in our planning must be the aggressive incremental eradication of poverty and the creation of wealth and good-paying jobs. Our planning must be capable of meeting the aspirations and opportunities for a huge and growing youth population.”

The Vice President also tasked stakeholders to work hard to overcome challenges of implementation and coordination in the execution of the development plans noting that “implementation remains the Achilles Heels of our planning efforts. And another make or break issue for planning is coordination.”

Participants at the meeting include the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Hajiya Zainab Ahmed; the Minister of the FCT, Alhaji Mohammed Bello; the Minister of State, Budget and National Planning, Mr Clem Agba; Commissioners for Budget and Economic Planning from the 36 States, among others.


Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office Of the Vice President