Our attention has been drawn to a fake news narrative circulated by a section of the social media claiming the purported death of the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu at a London hospital. The story first appeared on Monday, 9th December 2024.
We hereby appeal to the public to disregard the rumour. Prof. Yakubu is alive, hale and hearty. In fact, he has not travelled to London in the last two years. He was present at an interactive meeting with the House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters on Wednesday, 11th December 2024. He also chaired the Commission’s meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners on Thursday, 12th December 2024. Both events were widely covered on television and reported on the front pages of most newspapers yesterday, Friday 13th December 2024.
The public may recall that mischief-makers on the social media carried a similar fake story in 2021. Three years later, they are spreading the same rumour again.
Those who indulge in this practice, as well as those who spread it, should be mindful of its effect not only on the individual but also the wider society.
The Commission will continue to work with genuine media professionals to combat the scourge of fake news and the danger it poses to society.
Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, INEC Saturday 14th December 2024.
World Bank, LAMATA explore partnership on Lekki Green Transport Corridor project
The World Bank Transport Team and Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) have commenced discussion on the possibility of providing technical assistance to LAMATA on the implementation of its Lekki Green Corridor Project.
The Lekki Green Corridor Project includes Rail and Bus Mass Transit infrastructure, Traffic Management and other components.
The provision of Rail and Bus Mass Transit in the Lekki region is a critical part of State’s comprehensive Strategic Transport Master Plan (STMP), incorporating additional features such as a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor to serve as a feeder system to the rail line. This initiative aligns with the Nigeria National Urban Mobility Program spearheaded by the World Bank.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Seun Osiyemi who was also visited by the World Bank Transport Team, highlighted the significance of the Lekki Green Corridor project, describing it as a top priority.
He emphasized that the Lekki-Epe axis was an emerging Central Business District (CBD) corridor. The project will complement the expansion of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and support key infrastructure developments, including the free trade zone, port, refinery, and airport in the area.
The World Bank delegation, led by the Urban Transport Specialist and the Task Team Leader, Elkin Bello expressed the Bank’s strong interest in contributing to the development of sustainable public transportation on the Lekki Green Corridor axis.
He noted the importance of a holistic approach to urban mobility and inquired about Lagos State’s plans for integrating the informal transport sector into the city’s formal transportation framework. “It is critical to ensure that all stakeholders, especially informal transport operators, are part of the transformation process,” he stated during the discussions.
In response, the Managing Director of LAMATA, Engr. Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, provided insights into the Bus Industry Transition Programme designed to transition informal operators into the regulated system.
She recounted LAMATA’s efforts to involve transport union leadership in the development process and noted that they have been included in both local and international exposure visits and trainings to learn best practices from more developed urban centers. “Our vision is to create an inclusive transportation ecosystem that integrates operators while ensuring efficiency and sustainability,” she said.
Engr. Akinajo expressed optimism on the potential partnership with the World Bank, stating, “We believe that with the support of the World Bank, we would be taking a greater step towards our goal of achieving a world-class transportation system for Lagos State, providing a seamless and sustainable commuting experience for all residents.”
The World Bank team was taken on a site inspection of the Lekki Green corridor for a first experience of its extant state.
Engr. Akinajo added, “This project is not just about infrastructure; it’s about enhancing mobility, improving quality of life, and driving economic growth in Lagos State.”
The team lead, Elkin Bello, promised to distil the information gathered, along with insights from the site inspection, in its report.
German president meets Nigerians behind the Lagos start-up boom
DPA Thu, December 12, 2024
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier got a glimpse of Nigeria's booming start-up scene on Thursday, at the end of a two-day visit to the West African country.
In Nigeria's business hub, Lagos, five young companies presented their projects to Steinmeier.
They ranged from a health platform, based on an electronic insurance card, to a financing platform that provides entrepreneurs with capital.
Africa's most populous country, where people under the age of 18 make up half the population, has become a centre of the continent's start-up scene.
The Nigeria Startup Act, which came into force in October 2022, has particularly encouraged the emergence of young companies in the tech and IT sectors.
During a meeting with Nigerian entrepreneurs, Steinmeier called for closer bilateral cooperation. "Germany is still the country of modern technology; Nigeria is rich in resources and a creative young generation," he said.
"We are perfect partners. So let's realize our potential."
Before his onward flight to South Africa, Steinmeier, a former German foreign minister, met the Nigerian writer and Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka. His four-day trip to three African countries will also include a visit to Lesotho.
The Bundespräsident der Bundesrepublik Deutschland (Federal President of the Federal Republic of Germany) is the head of state of Germany.
He represents the Federal Republic of Germany in matters of international law, concludes treaties with foreign states on its behalf and accredits diplomats. Furthermore, all federal laws must be signed by the president before they can come into effect; presidents may veto a law if they believe it to violate the constitution.
However, because partisan politics is divisive, some countries have developed a system in which they have a head of state that is above politics and a head of government that is involved in partisan politics. This is the case in Germany and the United Kingdom.
The idea behind this is that you can hate the head of government, but because he is above politics, there's not much reason to hate the head of state, so he can act as a unifier.
The German President tries to stay away from partisan politics and political decisions except when absolutely necessary. Therefore, his role is mainly ceremonial.
The President of Germany is elected by the Bundestag (Federal Council, that is, the parliament) and the 16 states of Germany.
The head of the German Government is the Federal Chancellor. The Chancellor is elected by the Bundestag on the proposal of the Federal President. The Chancellor is the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces during war, while the Defence Minister is the Commander in Chief during peace time.
Several German Presidents and Chancellors have visited Nigeria.
Chancellor Helmut Schmidt visited Nigeria in the 1970s. He was received by General Obasanjo.
I remember the state reception (at State House, Marina) for President Richard von Weizsacker during the Babangida era (late 1980s or early 1990s).
President Johannes Rau visited Nigeria in 2004. He was received by President Obasanjo.
President Horst Köhler visited Nigeria in 2008 (he was in Abuja and Lagos). He was received by President Yar'Adua.
Chancellor Angela Merkel visited Nigeria in 2011. She was received by President Jonathan.
President Joachim Gauck visited Nigeria in 2016. He was received by President Buhari.
Chancellor Angela Merkel visited Nigeria in 2018. She was received by President Buhari.
And Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited Nigeria in 2023 (he also visited both Abuja and Lagos) and was received by President Tinubu.
President Frank-Walter Steinmeier came to Nigeria with a business delegation that is seeking investment opportunities in the country.
An Xtra special #TravelThursday: Sights & sounds of the 1st visit of the German 🇩🇪 Air Force #Airbus A350 XWB 10+02 to the Heart of Africa 🇳🇬 as President Frank-Walter Steinmeier departs #Lagos after a 2 day visit to Nigeria. Auf Wiedersehen👋🏽✈️!
I was privileged to have been invited to meet The President of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier at the reception held for him at the Nike art gallery Lagos.
It was a night of fun with my friend Nd brothers in the art. @patorankingfire
Today, we were honoured to host the German President, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, at our Head Office in Lagos. This visit highlights the pivotal role that Access Bank plays in advancing trade relations between businesses in both countries supported by longstanding contributions of the bank's German desk.
For over six years, the Access Bank German Desk has been a cornerstone of these trade relations, supporting over 100 German and European clients across Nigeria, Angola, Ghana, South Africa, and beyond.
At Access, we remain committed to building partnerships that strengthen global trade and catalyse sustainable economic growth across Africa.
We were honored to welcome H.E. Dr @FrankWalterSte8 President of Germany, to the @UNDP🇳🇬Innovation Centre!
His visit reaffirms Germany’s commitment to supporting innovation and startups in Nigeria through its partnership with @UNDP 🇩🇪🤝🇳🇬
#PartnersAtCore
UNDP Nigeria @UNDPNigeria
Startups are the heart of Nigeria’s innovation! H.E. Dr. @FrankWalterSte4’s visit to our Innovation Centre celebrates the potential of startups to empower youth, foster growth, and drive digital transformation. #DigitalEconomy #PartnersAtCore
Elsie Attafuah @ElsieAttafuah
Guten Morgen Eko!!!
Honored to receive H.E. @FrankWalterSte4 at our @UNDP Innovation Centre. This visit highlights the power of partnerships in driving innovation and sustainable development. Together, we will innovate, inspire, co-create and unlock new market!🚀
Night of Cultural Elegance: German President Steinmeier’s Visit to Nike Art Gallery
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier’s visit to Nike Art Gallery celebrated cultural exchange, artistry and Lagos’ dynamic creativity.
The Nike Art Gallery in Lagos on Wednesday evening transformed into a vibrant hub of cultural celebration, welcoming German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, who arrived in Nigeria a day before on an official visit.
The gallery, which showcases thousands of stunning artwork, stands as a testament to Nigeria’s rich artistic legacy. Ushers dressed in ‘Oleku’ styles sown with Adire fabrics, added a touch of traditional elegance, while the air buzzed with excitement as many anticipated the entrance of President Steinmeier.
Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye, the owner of Nike Art Gallery and Nigerian artist best known for her cloth work and embroidery pieces, radiated pride as she welcomed her esteemed guest. “I just want to welcome our Excellency to the city of excellence,” she said with warmth, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening.
President Steinmeier’s opening remarks highlighted the profound connections between art and cultural diplomacy. “It’s really a privilege to be here to celebrate not only the beauty of art but the power of cultural exchange. Culture, in all its forms, is the bridge that connects us across languages, borders, and histories.
“Tonight, we have come together to honour the stories, values, and perspectives that Nigeria and West Africa bring to our lives,” he stated.
He also underscored the importance of Nigeria-Germany relations, emphasising the role of cultural partnerships. “The relations between the two federal republics of Nigeria and Germany still build on strong ties—not only in politics, trade, and investment but also in the vibrant cultural exchange between Nigerian and German artists, academics, and scientists.”
Steinmeier commended Chief Nike’s dedication, his tone filled with admiration as he said, “This evening would not be possible without you, Chief Adenike Okundaye. There is a reason why everybody in Lagos and in fact, in the whole country – in Nigeria and beyond, calls you Mama Nike, because you have indeed been like a mother to many young artists, especially female artists, and especially to those with underprivileged background.
“You gave them space, skills, and advice. With your tireless commitment, you have inspired them, and that’s what young artists need most – inspiration and encouragement.”
The President then toured the gallery, marvelling at works by both established and emerging Nigerian artists. The pieces on display highlighted the diverse talent within the country, capturing themes that took a piece from different parts of Nigeria.
Speaking with ARISE NEWS, Chief Nike reflected on the event’s significance.
“For the German President to be coming – one has come to Abuja in 2003, that is Mr and Mrs Rau. But for him to come today, we want to show him that Lagos is the place to be. Lagos has all the creativity. Lagos is the city of excellence. So, we’re going to be showcasing the creativity, the handmade artwork that is done in Nigeria.
“All the work in this gallery is all done by Nigerians, no outsider for now. And then, the one in Abuja is all Nigerian as well,” she said.
“The voice of the artist is their work, and when people come to Nigeria, they want to see the work of Nigerian artists. And the only way they can see it is for us to bring them together as one in one place.
“We are showcasing 25,000 pieces here, and all of them who are…these artists we have, forty per cent are female and sixty per cent are male, and they come from different parts of Nigeria.
“We are happy that Nigerian creativity has taken Nigeria to the world map,” she said proudly.
Afrobeat icon Femi Kuti, also in an exclusive to ARISE NEWS, shared his thoughts on cultural exchange and Africa’s role in the global arena as he said, “Yes, Pan-Africanism is very important, but on this planet, it’s impossible for us to try not to live together.
“We are all going to need each other eventually to share medicine, ideas, music, art,” he remarked.
He stressed Africa’s potential for leadership while urging for cultural integrity: “Africa can be a leader in the world. We have to keep promoting our culture and maintaining our legacy.”
He stressed Africa’s potential for leadership while urging for cultural integrity: “Africa can be a leader in the world. We have to keep promoting our culture and maintaining our legacy.”
As the night unfolded, guests indulged in delicacies and fine wine, all while mingling amidst awe-inspiring masterpieces. The event was more than a celebration of art; it was a vivid illustration of Lagos as a cultural epicentre and the universal language of creativity connecting worlds.
Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, today received H.E. Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier, President of the Federal Republic of Germany, at the Presidential Wing, Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos.
Gbenga Omotoso @gbenga_omo
I joined Deputy Governor Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat to receive German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at the Lagos Airport today. Mr Steinmeier will surely enjoy Lagos - our arts, music, movies and food. The fine weather and the warmth of our people. Willkommen sir.
Gbenga Omotoso @gbenga_omo
NOW: Taste of Lagos hospitality for German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at the Murtala Muhammed Airport. I joined Deputy Governor Kadri Obafemi Hamzat to receive him.
Politics › Professor Mahmood Yakubu Is Not Dead! - INEC by naptu2(op): 2:12pm On Dec 14, 2024
