₦airaland Forum

Ofcourse Yes

*MODERN, PEOPLE-CENTRIC HEALTHCARE SYSTEM, FUNDAMENTAL TO PRESIDENT'S VISION FOR NIGERIA'S GROWTH SAYS OSINBAJO*

_*VP inaugurates Health Sector Reform Committee_

_*Presides over meeting of National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy_

As the Health Sector Reform Committee set up by President Muhammadu Buhari is inaugurated, the members have been urged to brace up for the task ahead, as Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, re-echoed the President, that a modern, and people-oriented healthcare is fundamental to his own vision for the country's growth and development.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this today in his address at the inauguration of the Health Sector Reform Committee, which he leads. Membership of the Committee is drawn from the different arms of government, development partners, the traditional institution and Civil Society Organizations, among others.

Emphasizing the importance of the committee’s task while recalling President Buhari’s vision, the Vice President, at the virtual event said, “Mr. President, has in several public statements made it clear that a modern, virile and people-centric healthcare system was fundamental to his own vision for socio-economic growth.”

However, the VP observed that the current reality is that the Nigerian health sector still carries some critical challenges, which has resulted in sub-optimal outcomes, when compared with more developed jurisdictions of the world, a situation that makes the reform of the sector imperative.

Acknowledging challenges in the health sector, Prof. Osinbajo explained that government has the primary responsibility to address the issues "and to put in place the structures and arrangements necessary to boost the efficiency of the healthcare ecosystem, improve healthcare delivery, stem the brain-drain of our health personnel and reduce the pressure on our foreign reserves on account of medical tourism.”

Speaking further, Prof. Osinbajo said a lot of efforts have been made prior to the setting up of the committee to ensure that the reform process is hitch-free.

According to him, “there have, of course, been a good number of attempts to reform the healthcare system in Nigeria and many of us who are members-designate of this committee are familiar with some of these reform efforts, but this particular journey of reforming the Nigerian health sector (and we have heard, I think quite comprehensively from the Hon Minister of Health) began with the commissioning of a Diagnostic Needs Assessment (DNA) of the Sector.

“Subsequently, the National Council on Privatisation at its meeting of April 12, 2019, approved the appointment of consultants to carry out the assignment, which involved a review of previous reform efforts in the sector, as well as field visits to the 55 Tertiary Health Institutions across the country and some selected sub-regional health institutions.”

While soliciting the cooperation and dedication of all members of the committee, the Vice President noted that “on account of the multi-sectoral and multi-disciplinary participation that is required to execute a health reform mandate on the scale and the complexity that we have today, I am keen to ensure that the coordinating office for the reform effort which will be domiciled in the Office of the Vice President will not just have the Ministry of Health (which is an important partner) but also some of the important technical resource persons provided by our partners and of course solid representation also from the committee.”

He said: “the Coordinating Office will provide technical and administrative oversight of all activities of the reform, and I intend to have further consultation with the Minister of Health as we bring this to fruition. The next steps are that this committee will be divided into thematic working groups to take on various aspects of the assignment.”

Equally, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will partner with the Committee in the discharge of its functions.

Present at the meeting were the Chairman, Senate Committee on Health, Sen. Ibrahim Oloriegbe; Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire; Minister of State for Health, Sen. Olorunnimbe Mamora; representative of the Governor of Delta State, Dr Ben Nkechika, and Chairperson of the Nigerian Health Commissioners’ Forum, Dr Betta Edu.

Other members present at the event included the Country Representative of the World Health Organization, Dr Walter Kazadi Mulombo; President of the Nigerian Medical Association, Prof. Innocent Ujah; President of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria, Prof. James Damen; President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Prof. Cyril Usifoh; DG, Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Dr Ifedayo Adetifa; DG, Bureau for Public Enterprises (BPE), Mr Alex Okoh, and CEO, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr Babatunde Irukera, among others.

Meanwhile in another development, ahead of the commencement of the implementation of programmes under the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy (NPRGS), Prof. Osinbajo on Thursday presided over the third meeting (virtual) of the National Steering Committee of the programme.

The meeting reviewed the activities of the Steering Committee following a presentation by the Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule on the composition and working of the Technical Working Group as regards the implementation of programmes under the scheme.

Also present at the meeting were Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State; Ministers of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige; Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire; Industry, Trade and Investment, Otunba Niyi Adebayo; the Secretary of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council (PEAC), Mohammed Salisu, and the Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programme, Engr Umar Bindir, among others.

*Laolu Akande,*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity,*
*Office of the Vice President.*
27th January, 2022

*ONLY LEADERS INSPIRED BY HIGHER PURPOSE, NOT PERSONAL PROFIT, CAN BRING ABOUT NATIONAL TRANSFORMATION - OSINBAJO*

"History teaches us that everywhere there has been a national transformation, it has been brought about by public-spirited men and women of goodwill who, inspired by their belief in a higher purpose other than their own profit, have entered the public square to champion the common good, "according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

He spoke on Friday at the 1st Annual General Assembly of Catholics in Politics and Catholic Business Leaders, were in a rousing speech, he highlighted the imperative of servant leadership and transformational leadership at different levels in society as a force for the common good.

The summit, otherwise known as the AGORA Conference, had the theme: “The Advancement of the Common Good towards Justice, Unity, Structure and Development of Nigeria.”

Speaking on the theme, Prof. Osinbajo was of the view that transformational leadership, particularly in a multi-ethnic and multi-faceted country like Nigeria, is needed across all levels of government and spheres of society, as its primary focus is the pursuit of the common good to ensure fairness, justice, unity and development in a nation.

According to the VP "building credible institutions of justice, the rule of law and orderly society are crucial expressions of the pursuit of the common good."

Recalling the words of His Holiness Pope John Paul II during his visit to Nigeria in February 1982 in an address at the State House in Lagos, the VP stated, “only the harnessing of all the forces for the common good, in true respect of the supreme values of the spirit, will make a nation great and a happy dwelling place for its people.”

The Vice President who stated that the common good as an imperative of public policy and governance was articulated by the second chapter of the Nigerian Constitution, said, “the challenge of actualizing the common good is coterminous with our quest to actualize the Directive Principles and Objectives of State Policy. Achieving both requires transformational leadership across all levels and spheres of our society.”

Highlighting why transformational leadership is critical to national life, the VP noted that it will spur positive changes across all sectors and spheres of society.

He added that as a model of leadership, transformational leadership operates by serving and uplifting others because it is servant leadership.

The VP noted that the “purpose of power is service, not domination; it is to uplift and empower others rather than to control or oppress. This is a model of leadership that is inseparable from our conception of the common good.”

“Transformational leadership is, therefore, the pursuit of the common good. But the pursuit of the common good itself is not as easy as it sounds. This is especially so where the wounds and enmities of ethnic and religious conflicts are deep.

“The common type of leadership will seek the path of relevance and popularity within their own ethnic or religious camps by seeking only the good of their own. The servant-leader will serve his people by emphasizing the letter and spirit of the gospel, that even our worst enemies were still made in the image of God

“And the pursuit of the common good is the pursuit of the good of those who hate us and have hurt us even in the recent past.

"Transformational leadership means that we do not mourn and condemn the killing of those who belong to our own tribe or faith alone, or seek justice for ours alone, because all men are equal before God, and that the pain and anguish of a mother's loss of a child, is not different from one faith or tongue to the other.”

One of the ways to cultivate the values that promote the common good, that seeks out the good of others, is in the delivery of justice and cementing the foundations of integrity in society, the Vice President noted.

Said he "the most progressive expressions of faith are concerned with justice and justice is impossible without taking the institutions that govern public life into account. In this sense, the purpose of governance and public policy is to establish a paradigm of justice that is measured by how well society deals with its most vulnerable members, settle disputes fairly and speedily, meting out punishment to violators of law without bias or fear.

The VP further observed that “our courts of law must be courts of justice. It means that we must pay attention to the quality and calibre of the men and women who are appointed judges. We must be concerned with their remuneration, and welfare. We must be unrelenting on insisting on their integrity.”

Prof. Osinbajo also described corruption as a "cancer" noting that "the cancer in governments anywhere is corruption.
"When public officials, (be they high or low in the executive, legislature or judiciary) are toll gates for the extortion of the populace while seeking government dispensations, the common good, happy and prosperous lives for the people is impossible."

He added that the pursuit of the common good must “involve a relentless pursuit of integrity and transparency of public officers, we must think through the systems that will reduce human discretion in public-facing institutions. So we must, as a collective, condemn and call out corruption and corrupt practices.”

Prof. Osinbajo also encouraged Nigerians not to despair, despite some of the challenges, but have hope and belief in the promise of a great nation while urging that Nigerians must be willing to pay the price to achieve national greatness by actively pursuing the common good of all, regardless of tribal and religious differences.

Continuing, he said "fulfilling the immense promise of our nation requires men and women of goodwill from various communities and faiths to collaborate in advancing the common good. This is all the more important because it is such coalitions that can heal society of the wounds inflicted by the crude identity politics of religion and ethnicity."

According to the VP, “our future will be shaped by how well we make common cause with other citizens of progressive persuasions to transform our communities,” even as he emphasized the importance of forging collaborative partnerships “not only within ourselves but with other forces which are committed to the common good to positively impact society.”

“Our greatest adversary in our task of national renewal is a feeling of hopelessness - a sense of futility that seems almost overwhelming. However, we cannot afford to even indulge in such despondency and despair. There is hope and there is much work to be done.”

Nigeria will overcome its challenges and rise again, the VP added.

“Contrary to opinion in some quarters, this house will not fall. It is being built and needs yet many more people to commit to building the sort of nation that we want. The throes and pangs of birth must not be interpreted as the pains of impending death. We are by the grace of God, more than able to overcome our present difficulties and we will overcome them,” the VP concluded.

There were also remarks from other dignitaries at the AGORA Conference, including from the Governor of Plateau State, Simon Lalong; Deputy Governors of Osun State, Gboyega Alabi; Akwa Ibom State, Moses Frank Ekpo; Edo State; Philip Shaibu; Senator Dame (Prof.) Nora Daduut; and Catholic Archbishop of Sokoto Diocese, Fr. Matthew Hassan Kukah, who was represented by Rev. Raymond Aina.

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

*OSINBAJO COMMENDS RESOLUTION OF AFRICAN CHURCH'S INTERNAL DISPUTE*

_*Church leaders to VP: We admire your leadership qualities, dedication to Country_

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, has commended leaders and members of the African Church for peacefully settling their differences and the internal dispute in the denomination, noting that such reconciliation is true to Christian ideals.

According to him, "love of brothers and sisters prevailed and we are able to show the world that amongst Christians, men and women of faith, certain disputes shouldn’t ever become a matter that would be difficult or impossible for us to resolve."

Prof. Osinbajo said this today when he received a delegation from the African Church led by His Eminence, Dr Emmanuel Josaiah Udofia, Primate of the African Church, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Joining the Primate were also His Eminence Julius Abbe and other leaders of the denomination.

While extolling the African Church for the maturity displayed in settling the internal dispute in the church, the VP observed the leading of the Scriptures in resolving disputes.

"We have all it takes and scripture points us in the right direction and there is no reason at all for it to be difficult in settling disputes. The devil has been put to shame in the African Church."

He then restated the firm commitment of the Federal Government to freedom of worship, adding that it remains a fundamental responsibility of the Buhari-led administration.

According to the Vice President, "one of the critical things for us just as our Constitution states, is freedom of worship.

“It is our duty as a government and we intend to maintain that duty in every possible way. This is why repeatedly when visits like this take place, the President reasserts that principle. Every man of faith, even those who say they have no faith, must be allowed to practice whatever systems or beliefs that they wish.”

Prof Osinbajo encouraged the members of the delegation to make a conscious effort to “actively promote all across the country and speak about freedom of worship because it is very important that we respect the rights of others. Government stands ready to protect your rights as Christians just as we protect the rights of men and women of other faiths.”

In his own remarks, Most Rev. Udofia expressed his gratitude to the Vice President for his role in resolving the dispute within the church.

“On behalf of the management and members of the African Church, I wish to express our profound gratitude to God Almighty for the miraculous way our 2-year internal wrangling was brought to an end. We are grateful for the role played by the ecumenical affiliated bodies we belong to, and most importantly the special interest Your Excellency has shown and demonstrated in our church”

He thanked Prof Osinbajo, recognizing his “presence through your representatives on the reconciliation service held on 12th October 2021, in Lagos and also manifestations of your good gesture to our dear church, the African Church.”

The Most Rev. Udofia declared the church’s admiration for the VP commending his “dedication to our great country, Nigeria. We are endeared by your leadership qualities, and we hereby request your continued and untiring support for our church.

“We wish to renew our commitment and loyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the government of President Muhammadu Buhari.”

Others in attendance at the meeting include the Most Rev Dr Peter Oluwakemi Ogunmuyiwa, Archbishop of Abuja, Elder Babatunde Odufuwa, and others.

*Laolu Akande,*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity,*
*Office of the Vice President.*
28th of January, 2022.

*WHY APC IS FOCUSED ON THE COMMON MAN'S WELFARE — OSINBAJO*

_*VP receives delegation of party's Professionals Forum_

The Buhari administration and the ruling All Progressives Congress remain committed to the welfare of the common man because it is a party of the people and will continually ensure that the common man benefits maximally from government, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this on Friday when he received on a courtesy call, a delegation of the APC Professionals Forum at the Statehouse, Abuja.

“This is a party of the common man, a party of the people, a party that takes as its cradle, the importance of ensuring that the common man benefits maximally from government which is why we have the big programmes like the Social Investment Programmes, the largest if its kind in the continent and several of such other programmes that emphasize how serious we take the lot of the common man,” the Vice President said.

While it was formed about nine years ago, the VP noted that the party has made an impact and is determined to improve the wellbeing of Nigerians.

Adding that the party is also “where many young people are,” the VP said: “We are the ruling party in Africa’s largest democracy which by itself is a phenomenal achievement for such a young party.

“But you’ll find that in the particular ideological direction of our party, it’s one that it was clear to the original founders of the party, the initial persons and groups that came together to form the party and they came from different parties, but it was to present a left of centre, a social democratic alternative to the ruling part.”

Prof. Osinbajo further stated that the APC is determined to ensure the country’s further growth and development, noting that the party “carries with it, the hopes and expectations of millions of Nigerians.

“The party is not a mere platform for running for political office, it carries with it the hopes and expectations of millions of Nigerians and we must make it a place where they are comfortable, a place where they feel this belongs to us. We can even put our resources into it; it is not just for politicians; it is for us all."

The VP said leaders and politicians are there to serve the people and give them reasons to believe in a better country.

“Our people, the Nigerian people, need hope; they need to be able to believe in the politicians; they need to be able to believe in their leaders and if the leaders are within the political party, that political party must have an ideology that is attractive to them, that makes them feel wanted, that makes them feel cared for and I think that role is so crucial.

“It is the role this Professional Forum must take on to itself. And what it entails aside from that logical objective of the forum; what it entails is actually defining in writing in various ways what our party stands for.”

Acknowledging the significance of the APC Professionals Forum in the scheme of things, the Vice President urged the Forum to play more important roles in shaping the party’s ideology.

“There are many people that say well, we have not done this, we have not done that. There are so many ways of looking at it, but the truth of the matter is that the party was committed and is seen across the country as a party of the common man, which is why I think the role of the Professionals Forum is particularly important because we are trying to shape the ideology of the party,” he said.

The VP stated that professionals are integral to ensuring the party stays focused on the wellbeing of Nigerians and its ideals, as stated in the Constitution and Manifesto respectively.

According to him, “if the professionals cannot do that, then our party becomes all comers, anything goes so long as we have a platform to run for political office. But I think that we, especially professionals, have a unique advantage.

“We have many who have run their businesses, who have professional organizations or who have excelled in their own professions and we know that the only way to do things properly is if we are able to press on without relenting.”

Prof. Osinbajo further hoped that the APC Professionals Forum will also carry the hopes and expectations of millions of the party’s supporters nationwide.

He also believed that the Forum, made up of professional elites, will be of great benefit to the party and Nigeria because of its leadership and quality of professionals on its board of trustees and as members, who he noted “are not just politicians, but people who have distinguished themselves” in their respective fields.

“I think our party will rely a great deal on this forum and I hope and pray that the Forum will realize all of its objectives, including the extra ones that our party must place upon you, especially at this time in the life and history of our dear country,” he said.

In his remarks, former Governor of Bauchi State, Mallam Isa Yuguda, who is the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Forum noted that professionals in the party felt the need to identify with the Vice President being himself a professional. He invited the VP to the Forum's upcoming event in Abuja next week.

The Forum's delegation also included Deputy Chairman, Board of Trustees and former APC National Secretary, Waziri Bulama; Board of Trustees Secretary, Barrister Dapo Akinosun, SAN, and the National Coordinator, Akeem Akintayo.

*Laolu Akande,*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity,*
*Office of the Vice President.*
29th January 2022

All this Tinubu’s people, you are enemy of progress o.

Osinbajo is the most credible of them all. No mistake again please NIGERIANS

Osinbajo is just the person we need, May God make it possible.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*HOW LARGE NUMBER OF NIGERIANS CAN ACCESS GOVERNMENT’S PROGRAMMES – OSINBAJO*

_*FG working with Cooperatives, others to extend benefit of 300,000 Social Housing units to more Nigerians_

Cooperatives play a strategic role in implementing government’s social investment and interventions programmes and ensuring that a large number of people have access to the programmes according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

He said this yesterday when he received a delegation from the Cooperative Federation of Nigeria (CFN) led by the President, High Chief Tajudeen Oriyomi Ayeola.

Prof. Osinbajo stated that cooperatives are “an important part of our strategy in ensuring that the largest number of Nigerians have access to government programmes.

“The partnership of cooperatives with government is possibly the only way of doing so in an efficient manner that ensures that government services and programmes get to the right people.

“Cooperatives give their memberships the leverage to be able to take facilities and make sure those facilities are returned. They also have more knowledge of their individual members," Prof. Osinbajo noted.

Speaking further, the VP said “the rationale for cooperatives even in the 50s remains relevant today. When we talk about cooperatives in the Western Region and how these were very helpful and even cooperatives across the country became important pillars in the economic development of the country.”

Giving an instance where cooperatives have come in useful, Prof. Osinbajo noted that “we thought that cooperatives would be very useful in all the programmes around the Economic Sustainability Plan. One of them is the Family Homes Funds and our plans to build 300,000 social housing," units.

He observed that “the case for cooperatives is very well made, and what we must do as a government is look for ways of cooperating with the Cooperative Associations in ensuring that we are able to get this moving.”

In his own remarks, the Managing Director of Family Homes Fund, FHF, which is implementing the Social Housing element of the ESP, Mr Femi Adewole gave an update on the work done so far concerning the National Social Housing Programme.

He said, “as at year-end 2021, 17,281 homes are at various stages of construction, either completed or in progress across 15 States.”

While awaiting disbursements from the Central Bank of Nigeria, FHF MD disclosed that the agency was able to mobilize other resources such as N10billion from the Ministry of Finance, $60million from the African Development Bank, 20million Euros from Agence Française De Développement, and about N20billion recycled capital from sales of completed property to execute the Social Housing programme for last year.

For 2022, FHF expects to do 20,640 units using its own resources, but CBN disbursements would avail the opportunity to do even much more than that.

The MD said in order for the Social Housing scheme to reach a wider target audience outside of those in formal employment, particularly the large population of citizens in the informal sector, FHF entered into a partnership with CFN in May last year and the objective was to leverage their reach to mobilize demands in groups from people in the informal sector.

While addressing the Vice President, High Chief Ayeola noted that the CFN would want the intervention of the Federal Government in reviewing the Nigerian Cooperative Societies Act which has become obsolete in the face of operations of modern cooperatives. He added that such a review would ensure more effective collaboration with FG's strategy to ensure a larger number of Nigerians benefit from the many intervention schemes of the Administration such as the Social Housing scheme whose message he said the CFN is already spreading across their 20million members across the country.

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

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

*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*

As a Pastor, 80% of Christians will support and vote for him

As a Professor, 80% of academic and students will support and vote for him

As a Lawyer, 80% of lawyers will support and vote for him

As a loyal and dedicated Vice President to President Muhammadu Buhari, 80% of Buhari followers will support and vote for him

As an in-law to Obafemi Awolowo family, 80% of Yorubas will support and vote for him

As a Leader who initiated the various Social Investment Programmes of Buhari administration, 80% of the ordinary people of Nigeria will support and vote for him

So, when they ask you what structures does Yemi Osinbajo have, tell them he has religious, academia, professional, political(Buhari), ethnic and people structures.

Pastor(Prof) Yemi Osinbajo SAN, is the incoming President of Nigeria by the grace of God.

Credits: Blessing Chenfas

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

WE WILL DEFEAT EVIL FORCES CONTESTING THE SOUL OF NIGERIA SAYS OSINBAJO AT AHMADU BELLO LECTURE IN KANO

*Describes Sardauna as a servant leader

*How traditional institutions can promote peace, security & unity in Nigeria

*VP pays condolence visits to families of late Dr Tofa, Sheikh Bamba, Alhaji Naif

Even though "the soul of the North, and of Nigeria by extension, is being contested by some of the most destructive and evil forces in contemporary history," the Buhari Administration is firmly resolved to resist and defeat them, says Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, as Special Guest of Honour at the 8th Sir Ahmadu Bello Foundation Memorial Lecture on Tuesday in Kano.

Prof. Osinbajo did not mince words, asserting that "it is a fight we are determined to win. And we know that by the grace of God, all of these evil forces will be completely exterminated."

Emphasizing the rationale for a tough, collaborative resistance, the VP submitted that without it "neither the glorious legacies of the past nor the future our children will inherit, is immune to the unchecked onslaught."

It is for this reason, he explained, that the President "on numerous occasions reiterated the view that our peace and security architecture must recognize that traditional institutions are our first line of defence against the forces of anarchy."

He further noted that this explains why the Federal Government has deepened its partnership with traditional institutions on several fronts, adding that "given their familiarity with the local environment, traditional institutions are integral to our nationwide programme of community policing and can deliver valuable intelligence to State authorities."

Continuing the VP said, "many communities, the military and law enforcement agencies are partnering with local age-grade groups, hunters, and various associations under the sanction of the traditional leadership."

On its part, he assured that "the Federal Government has remained resolute in the fight against terrorists and insurgents. Recent efforts have focused on deploying technology for surveillance, intelligence gathering and attack.

"We will also continue to encourage collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Justice, their State counterparts, and law enforcement, to ensure that those who have been apprehended for terrorism and violent crimes are effectively prosecuted."

Prof. Osinbajo then underscored the influential role of traditional institutions and leaders as bridge-builders in communities in order to effectively tackle security challenges and promote peace and unity, at the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation lecture on Leadership and Good Governance which was titled “Reviving the Northern Traditional Institutions: Imperative for Peace and Security in Northern Nigeria.”

While in Kano, the Vice President, who received a rousing reception and cheers from the people of the State at several points on the road including atop bridges and at every street stop, also paid condolence visits to the families of the former presidential candidate, late Dr. Bashir Tofa, renowned Islamic scholar, late Sheikh Ahmad Bamba of BUK and community leader, the late Alhaji Hassan Naif.

*TRADITIONAL INSTITUTIONS COMPLEMENT DEMOCRACY*
But earlier while addressing the theme of the lecture, the VP noted that traditional institutions complement democracy in building a more inclusive and peaceful society, even as he noted that “the extensive influence within the existing Northern traditional leadership is urgently needed today more than ever.”

“In today’s world, the continued existence of these traditional institutions and communal sensibilities, side by side with the machinery of our modern democracy, gives us an advantage that we must invoke. The moral and legal frameworks of this entrenched structural duality allow us to be able to tackle problems, like insecurity, holistically,” he added.

Prof. Osinbajo highlighted examples from the Emirate system of Northern Nigeria, which he described as “a well-structured institution with a network of community leaders who helped sustain peace and security throughout their domains.”

*PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN GOVERNMENTS & TRADITIONAL RULERS*
Explaining further the importance of partnership between Government at the Federal and State levels and traditional rulers, the VP disclosed that traditional institutions have also been a key part of the conception and execution of the Administration’s initiatives such as the Social Investment Programmes, and the National Livestock Transformation Plan.

He added that the partnership was also crucial in the implementation of the At-Risk Children Programme (ARC-P) – an initiative that addresses vulnerable children who lack social protection and basic formal education.

Highlighting the strength in unity despite Nigeria’s diversity, the Vice President stated that “our communities are diverse, host and home to people from all corners of our country. The composition of our communities places a burden on leadership to promote peaceful coexistence, mutuality and tolerance.”

He also observed that “our traditional institutions possess emotional channels that penetrate far deeper than the most sophisticated surveillance equipment can. They hear what the government does not hear, they see what the government does not see. They understand the language of the people’s frustrations and can provide valuable intelligence that de-escalates potential conflagrations before they have a chance to spark.

*BUILDING STRONG, STABLE SOCIETY*
Prof. Osinbajo urged political and traditional leaders to shun divisive politics and sentiments in order to build a strong and stable society.

“There is an entire world out there calling to the potential of the young men and women not just of the North, but the whole of Nigeria. We owe it to them to see that they have ample opportunity to take their place in it. We have a duty to remind them of the values that define us, of the virtues of work and faith, tolerance and brotherliness. We owe them a duty to prepare them for a competitive world through knowledge acquisition and moral development.”

“We cannot afford to allow political expediencies taint the sanctity of our traditional institutions. Reviving traditional institutions also requires that we build and rebuild the connecting tissues of trust between political leaders, traditional institutions, and the people,” he said.

Prof. Osinbajo stated the task of promoting peaceful coexistence was “incumbent on traditional rulers in their domains as much as it is on elected leaders on all tiers of governance.”

The VP observed that positive things happen “when traditional institutions throw their moral weight behind progressive causes, whether it is educating the girl-child and getting out-of-school children into schools or championing the conservation of our environment and combating the ravages of drug abuse.

“These are all areas of concern for our administration and there is no doubt that we can prevail over these challenges if we work together.”

He added that “royal fathers have to be fathers of all in word and in deed. Our collective vision must be of an environment of peace, where the right to aspire and self-actualise is supported, irrespective of religion, gender or cultural identity. There is no place for exclusion or nativism. This understanding is at the heart of the consensus upon which we will anchor a peaceful and prosperous country.”

*SARDAUNA'S PRINCIPLES*
According to Prof. Osinbajo, the powerful role traditional institutions play in ensuring peace and security, as well as their influence on values embodied in society, are major principles the late Sardauna held dear.

The Vice President noted the qualities of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, whom he said has “a legacy of unifying the peoples of the North around a common purpose and the visionary pursuit of the actualisation of their individual and collective potential.

“As a Prince of Sokoto and a scion of the traditional institution, the Sardauna embodied the nexus between the ancient and the modern. He was a traditionalist with strong farsighted modernising instincts who understood that the key to the future lay in blending ancient values with progressive truths. As the Premier of the then Northern Region, he understood the necessity of inclusive governance in a plural environment.”

Describing him as a servant leader, the Vice President noted that the Sardauna was a pragmatic unifier who stood for the principles he held dear, while respecting the diverse views of others.

*INSIGHTFUL LECTURE*
The VP also commended the Emir of Lafia, HRH, Hon Justice Sidi Bage (Rtd), who was the Guest Speaker at the event, for “an informative, insightful, historical and contemporary review of law and policy on the role of Northern traditional institutions in the peace and security framework.”

He also commended the organisers, Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, for sustaining this important platform for constant introspection and action on national development.

*VP’S NICHE*
In his remarks at the event, Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje said Vice President Osinbajo has carved a niche for himself in the task of nation-building, national integration, “as well as remaining a bridge builder."

With the Vice President and the Kano State Governor at the lecture were other dignitaries including the Plateau State Governor Mr. Simon Lalong, the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr Emmanuel Akabe; Member, House of Representatives, Hon. Hafiz Ibrahim; the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Dr Isa Pantami; the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar, and the Emir of Kano, His Royal Highness, Aminu Ado Bayero.

*CONDOLENCE VISITS*
Speaking during a condolence visit to the family of late Dr Bashir Tofa, the Vice President described the late politician as “a very unique Nigerian who was a bridge builder, made friends, and built relationships across the country, and made serious contributions in discourse about the country and about national development.”

At the Tudun Yola Quarters Mosque where the renowned Islamic scholar, late Sheikh Ahmad Bamba BUK, resided, the VP, while praying for the deceased family, praised the late Sheik’s teachings, noting that his teachings were “of peace, brotherliness, fairness and justice,” describing him as one of the best known Sunni scholars in the world.

Condoling with the family of the late community leader, Alhaji Hassan Naif, the Vice President urged the family members to preserve the good deeds of their father, stating that “the legacy is one that must be cherished and one that you must promote in every possible way. The legacy of peace and brotherhood with everyone, the legacy of community service.”

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
19th January 2022

We don't want a Leader that's struggling to survive his health issues. Osinbajo 2023�

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*

*OSINBAJO CELEBRATES YOUNG NIGERIAN ACHIEVERS, SAYS YOUTHS ARE NIGERIA'S MOST VALUABLE ASSETS*
 
**Adds: $500m facility in the works to support technology, creativity*

**Starting this year, 20,000 graduates to get paid "work experience fellowships" annually*

**In Aso Villa, VP honors 42 winners of "Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award" in Nigeria* 
 


Making their marks in different fields like technology, environmental sanitation, agriculture, public health, and education, among others, young Nigerians will continue to be supported by the Federal Government to reach their full potentials, according to Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, SAN. 
 
Prof. Osinbajo stated this in Abuja on Thursday at the 2021 National Gold Award Presentation Ceremony of the Nigerian version of the Duke of Edinburgh International Award for Young People, held at the old State House Banquet Hall, Abuja. 
 
The International Award for Young People, Nigeria, an affiliate of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, is a non-formal educational framework that inspires young people to dream big, celebrate their achievements, and make a difference in their world. 
 
Hailing the various ways in which young people contribute to the nation’s wellbeing, the Vice President cited the example of “young Nigerians in our armed forces leaving behind family and friends to serve our country in various internal security operations across the country. 
 
“We have seen how young Nigerians rallied in the wake of the covid-19 pandemic and designed various technology solutions to support the government. 
 
“We have seen Nigerian youths break new ground and earn global acclaim in innovation, technology, sports, the arts, and entertainment. 
 
“Clearly, our young people are our most valuable assets, and the Federal Government believes that they must be encouraged and supported in every way.” 
 
Speaking about interventions aimed at supporting Nigerian youths in different sectors, Prof. Osinbajo said, “to this end we are raising $500 million to support the technology and creativity ecosystem.” 
 
According to him, "the project is led by the African Development Bank which has committed $170million and will also be supported by the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Islamic Development Bank and the French Development Agency.” 
 
Besides that, the VP added that “last year, Mr President launched the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme, supported by the UNDP, the European Union and the private sector. It will run for 5 years and will give well paid work experience opportunities to 20,000 young Nigerians every year in select private sector and public sector organisations. 
 
“The idea is that these interns will gain relevant career and life skills that will enable them to transition seamlessly into the professional, business, or public sector, while also earning good pay during the period of the internship.”
 
Acknowledging the resourcefulness of recipients of the International Award for Young People, the VP noted the exploits of “Musab Muazu who engaged in educating out-of-school ‘almajiri’ children inspiring them to seek education and helping them to read and write.” 
 
Continuing, he said “another recipient Odikpo Emmanuel, having lost one of his friends to suicide, was involved in promoting advocacy against suicide and promoting mental health awareness amongst young people within his community through organizing workshops, symposiums, and various advocacy programmes. 
 
“A recipient, Faithwins Iwuh for her Gold residential project, volunteered at the Renaissance hospital in Enugu State having observed that the hospital was experiencing a shortage of staff. She had to reside in the hospital for a month volunteering as a health worker and support staff to the hospital.” 
 
The Vice President then commended the efforts of the board of the International Award for Young People, Nigeria, particularly in working with stakeholders in public and private sector in ensuring sustainability and to also achieve the right scale for inculcating the values of the award into many Nigerians from a young age. 
 
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the International Award for Young People, Nigeria, Mr Olawale Ekun, praised Prof. Osinbajo’s personal commitment and unwavering support for the advancement of young Nigerians, noting that it will inspire more young people in the future.
 
He said: “the late Duke of Edinburgh used to hand out the gold awards directly himself in Britain and here we are having the same recognition at the highest level. 
 
“I think that we cannot but continue to be grateful because since this precedence has been set, for the next set of gold awardees, part of the inspiration, the motivation and encouragement that they will have is that they too can have a day like this.” 
 
Some of the Award recipients spoke about their experiences while goodwill messages were delivered virtually by some trustees of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. 
 
The high point of the occasion was the collection of award certificates by the 42 recipients of the 2021 International Award for Young People in Nigeria.
 
 
 
*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*14th January, 2021*

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

OSINBAJO TO CIVIL SERVANTS:
SEE THE BIGGER PICTURE, GOVT AGENCIES MUST PROVIDE CONDUCIVE ENVIRONMENT FOR PRIVATE SECTOR, NGOS TO OPERATE


Adds: Everything that happens in Public Service affects Nigeria's future


"The role of government agencies as licensors, regulators, revenue generators only makes sense when operators understand that the bigger picture is to provide the most auspicious environment for the private and non-government sectors to operate."

This was the summary of the Leadership Enhancement and Development Programme (LEAD-P) Special Lecture for members of the Federal Government's Civil Service delivered by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, today in Abuja.

Prof. Osinbajo also added that the capacity, professionalism and integrity of a country’s civil service is vital for its general development.

He stated that Nigeria’s future development as a nation requires a well-motivated, efficient and dynamic public service, and strategic leadership skills are essential to reposition the Federal Civil Service to enable it to play its pivotal role in national development.

The Vice President, while speaking on the topic "Strategic Leadership - The Essential Skills," (especially as it relates to the civil service) noted that “everything that happens in the public service has an impact on the lives, livelihoods and the future of our country.”

He said, “great economies and great nations, prosperity and abundance of nations and communities are created by men and not spirits," explaining that it is people who make nations great.

“The strategic thinker must know that we are called to tend not to strangle the goose that will lay the golden eggs. This approach applies to every component of government policy, not just the economy," the VP noted.

Pointing out examples of countries such as Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Brazil, China and India all of which he stated “have well developed and professional bureaucracies,” the Vice President noted that “a highly capable and professional bureaucracy is essential for successful development.”

“Given the roles and responsibilities of the civil service namely; to design and implement policy, regulate economic activity, and provide public goods including infrastructure and social services. Very often we hear people say that Nigeria's problem is not plans and policies, but rather that of a lack of implementation.

“The subtext of such comments is simple: the bureaucracy is the key. If it works, everything works. If it fails, plans and policies are hardly worth the paper they are written on. The bureaucracy literarily holds the future of the nation in its hands.”

Prof. Osinbajo further said that the Buhari Administration’s social investment programmes, as well as its commitment to lift a hundred million Nigerians out of poverty, are massive policy initiatives that require “a full understanding and strategic interpretation by the civil service for effective implementation.”


He added that the strategic leader must recognize the whole point of the civil service and government agencies, which must be to facilitate and enable individuals, corporations and other commercial groups sometimes working with the government to develop industries, do business, trade, render services and invest.

“So strategic leaders must envision strategies for ensuring that all government agencies and departments work together to achieve this objective, any failures along the chain means that the overall objective is delayed or denied.”

Prof. Osinbajo highlighted key attributes that enhance strategic leadership, such as strategic thinking, articulation, systemic structure and organization, collaboration, planning and implementation, among others.

According to the VP, with regards to the civil service, "strategy requires first a clear detailed understanding of government's policies.”

For instance, the Vice President noted that “the strategic leader must fully grasp the policies and plans of government… which requires serious study and inquiry. To be effective at this stage of the assignment, the bureaucrat must apply multidisciplinary knowledge and skills. Some can be taught but self-development is perhaps more important.”

Similarly, while noting that strategic leadership was not an individual phenomenon, but has to be systemic and organizational, Prof. Osinbajo said “strategic thinking and action require collaborative thinking, planning, and implementation. So, an essential skill for a strategic leader is the ability to think, plan, work and deliver on plans and policies with others, often across departments and agencies.”

Using the economic policy of the Buhari administration as an example, Prof. Osinbajo stated that diversification was central to this policy. In the same vein, he noted that such policy, which includes job creation and resource mobilisation, would not be successfully implemented without robust collaboration with the private sector.

Such collaborative thinking, the VP noted, would then inform the way a strategic leader thinks, plans and acts.

To emphasise the primacy of the private sector, the VP explained that "our new National Development Plan envisages an investment commitment of N348 trillion over the plan period of which it is expected that government at all levels will come up with about N49.7 trillion or about 14%, while the private sector is expected to invest N298 or about 86%."

He further emphasized that “it is the business of Civil Service leadership at the strategic level to fashion the fastest most efficient ways to ensure that commercial people and investors can do their business. Government policies on diversifying the economy, creating jobs, resource mobilisation is useless if there is no collaborative thinking, and action for implementation by the leadership of the civil service.”

In the same vein, the importance of discipline and accountability in ensuring optimal function of the civil service, aside from quality remuneration was also highlighted.

There is no question, according to the VP, while quoting the late Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore, that “petty power invested in men who cannot live on their salaries is an invitation to misuse that power” and that “adequate remuneration is vital for high standards of probity in political leaders and high officials.”

He observed however that good pay is not enough, but also that "accountability and discipline are as important.”

The Vice President then commended the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and her team for establishing the first LEAD-Programme, as well as the improved Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP) 2021-2025 – which is a successor to FCSSIP 2017-2020.


The LEAD-P, he noted, is an integral part of the three-pronged training components of the plan (FCSSIP), alongside the Structured Assessment Based Training Programme (SMART-P) and the Induction Training.

Those present at the event include the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha; Head of Civil Service, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan; Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Prince Clem Agba; Chairman, Federal Civil Service Commission, Mr Wakil Bukar, and Permanent Secretaries amongst others.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
13th January, 2022

Before nko

VP RECEIVES ESP UPDATE, AS MDAS REPORT PROGRESS WITH OVER 2 MILLION JOBS SAVED, CREATED SO FAR

*NSIA to fund Solar Power Naija with N10B as part of 5m households' connections target

*250,000 new business names registered, certificates issued all free of charge

*All States on course to get N1.7B minimum from Survival Fund, Lagos, Kano & Abia ahead.

*Thousands of farmer-exporters trained in food safety, many received international certifications

 
 
In the first meeting of the Economic Sustainability Committee in 2022, federal ministers and heads of agencies have reported further progress in the implementation of the Economic Sustainability Plan of the Buhari Administration as Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, presided over a virtual meeting of the Committee today at the Presidential Villa.
 
It would be recalled that in response to the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, President Muhammadu Buhari had in June 2020, mandated the Vice President - as chair of the Economic Sustainability Committee, to coordinate the implementation of the ESP aimed at cushioning the economic effects of the global pandemic.
 
Highlights of the presentations by MDAs today include the report that about 2.1 million jobs have been retained or created through the implementation of the ESP programmes; and the approval of N10bn by the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) to fund the deployment and local assembly of 200,000 (off-grid) Solar Homes Systems under the “Solar Power Naija” partnership between both the NSIA and Rural Electrification Agency (REA).

In the presentation on the Survival Fund made by the Industry, Trade and Investment Minister of State Ambassador Mariam Katagum she disclosed that while all States of the Federation have received varying levels of the N75B Survival Fund with its different schemes, eventually each State would soon receive a minimum of N1.7B cumulative from all the schemes.

Lagos, Abia and Kano States have already crossed the bar, with Lagos reaching over N2.5B and Kano over N2B. No State so far has received anything less than N1B.
 
In his presentation, the Minister of State, Budget & National Planning, Clem Agba; disclosed that while about 1.3 million jobs were retained through the MSME and Payroll support, 774,000 jobs were created from the Public Works Programme and 26,021 Jobs from roads construction /rehabilitation.
 
In the same vein, the Committee was briefed that over 1.1 million Nigerians have benefitted from the different schemes under the ESP MSME Survival Fund, thereby saving millions of jobs. A breakdown showed there are 459,334 beneficiaries under the Payroll Support Scheme; 307,687 beneficiaries from the Artisan & Transport Scheme.
 
Similarly, 82,491 Nigerians are so far beneficiaries of the General MSME Grants Scheme, and another 17,468 of the Guaranteed Offtake Scheme. Also, 250,000 business names were registered free under the Survival Fund’s CAC Formalization Support Scheme.
 
Also, under the Solar Power Naija programme, the Managing Director/CEO of Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Ahmad Salihijo, briefed that another 60,000 SHS are expected to be delivered in the first quarter of 2022 under the NDPHC-A-solar partnership, with at least 10,000 units to be assembled locally. This is besides the 200,000 solar connections to be funded by NSIA.
 
The ESP Solar Naija programme is designed to provide electricity access to 5 million households, and will serve about 25 million Nigerians in rural areas and under-served urban communities nationwide.
 
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, noted that the Rapid Response Register (RRR) component under the ESP has since commenced, with 374,759 beneficiaries paid so far, and another 391,185 Nigerians earmarked for payment soon.
 
The RRR is designed as an intervention to cushion the economic shocks of the COVID-19 pandemic on urban poor Nigerians currently not benefitting from the federal government’s cash transfer programme.
 
Regarding the progress of the Export Expansion Facility Programme (EEFP) component of the ESP, 281 companies have benefitted from the COVID-grant relief, while 1,105 companies are beneficiaries under the Export Development Fund (EDF), among other milestones.

While the EEFP aims to protect export businesses from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and also safeguard jobs, the EDF is a statutory provision of the Nigeria Export Promotion Council and is being activated for the first time in the history of the Council under the ESP.
 
Also as part of the ESP, 100 MSMEs exporters have been listed on Amazon, the world’s largest e-commerce platform. The NEPC under the ESP also trained 4500 farmers & exporters on food safety and international standards, while 700 of them have now received international certification which only less than 50 had in Nigeria before now.

Besides, 8 new Domestic Export Warehouses are being built currently including in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kaduna and Abuja to ease supply chain constraints for exporters in the country.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo SAN virtually chairs the
Economic Sustainability Committee Meeting. 10th Jan, 2021.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

ECOWAS COUNTRIES TO SHUT ALL BORDERS AGAINST MALI, RECALL AMBASSADORS, REJECT JUNTA’S TRANSITION SCHEDULE*

*Leaders in sub-region have shown commitment to good governance, democratic enterprises, says Osinbajo_

*VP adds: There is clear evidence international community will no longer accept unconstitutional takeover of government


With its latest stand against unconstitutional seizure of power, leaders of member states in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have shown strong resolve and commitment to issues of good governance and democracy in the sub-region, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this on Sunday in Accra, Ghana, where he represented 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.

At the Summit on Sunday, ECOWAS agreed to impose additional sanctions on the military junta in Mali, withdraw all ECOWAS Ambassadors in the country, and also close land and air borders between ECOWAS Member States and Mali.

The Vice President disclosed that there is a strong resolve by ECOWAS Member States to stand against coup d’états in the sub-region.

Speaking to journalists after the Summit, Prof. Osinbajo said: “what is being done is unprecedented. In the years gone by, the African Union, then known as OAU and ECOWAS, never came down heavily on Coups de'tats; but there is evidence now that there is a very strong resolve that ECOWAS and, indeed, AU and the international community will not accept unconstitutional take over of government."

Continuing, Prof. Osinbajo said, "it's very evident that there is very strong resolve, which is why we are here today. We expect that the actions that will be taken will point the junta in Mali in the right direction."

"I think ECOWAS has shown that it has not lost its bite where there are concerns about issues of good governance and democratic enterprises in the sub-region, which is why sanctions against Guinea and Mali were imposed.”

After reviewing the situation in Mali at the Extraordinary Summit, the sub-regional leaders rejected the transition schedule proposed by the Malian military junta, noting that "the proposed chronogram for a transition is totally unacceptable".

The body also imposed additional sanctions on the junta, including the following:

a) Withdrawal of all ECOWAS Ambassadors in Mali;

b) Closure of land and air borders between ECOWAS countries and Mali;

c) Suspension of all commercial and financial transactions between ECOWAS Member States and Mali, with the exception of the following products: essential consumer goods; pharmaceutical products; medical supplies and equipment, including materials for the control of COVID-19 products, and electricity

d) Freeze of assets of the Republic of Mali in ECOWAS Central Banks;

e) Freeze of assets of the Malian State and the State Enterprises and Parastatals in Commercial Banks

f) Suspension of Mali from all financial assistance and transactions from financial institutions.

The communique also disclosed that the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government "instructs all Community institutions to take steps to implement these sanctions with immediate effect."

Noting that the sanctions will only be gradually lifted "after an acceptable and agreed transition chronogram is finalised and monitored-satisfactory progress is realised in the implementation of the chronogram for the elections."

Regarding Guinea, ECOWAS noted that it remained concerned about the slow progress of the transition process four months after the coup.

According to the Communique issued at the end of the meeting, "The Authority regrets the absence of chronogram for the election and the non-setting up of the National Council of Transition (CNT). It also directs that a mission be fielded to Conakry to discuss the transition."

Earlier in his remarks at the opening session of the Summit, Chairman of ECOWAS, President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana, praised the commitment and support of West African leaders to the progress and prosperity of the sub-region.

Recalling the efforts of the leaders in resolving the crisis in parts of the sub-region, President Akufo-Addo said, “as you did through the entire year of 2021, you continue to demonstrate your commitment to responding to urgent and critical evolving situations in the region.

“This is the 6th Extraordinary Summit since I assumed the chair of the Authority that Your Excellencies have participated in concerning the vexed issues of Mali and Guinea. It is a strong testimony to your leadership and concern to the progress of ECOWAS.”

Aside from Vice President Osinbajo and the Ghanaian President - who presided at the Summit, other West African leaders present at the Summit were Presidents Macky Sall of Senegal; George Weah of Liberia; Patrice Talon of Benin Republic; Roch Marc Christian Kaboré of Burkina Faso, and Alassane Ouattara of Cote d'Ivoire.

Other Heads of State present include Umaro Embalò of the Republic of Guinea Bissau; Mohamed Bazoum of Niger Republic; Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, and the Vice President of The Gambia, Isatou Touray.

The session was also attended by former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, who is the ECOWAS Mediator for Mali; the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Mr Jean-Claude Kassi Brou; among other representatives of international organisations.

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

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*
 
*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.*

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*

*OSINBAJO IN BAUCHI SAYS ETHNICITY, RELIGION CAN'T SEPARATE NIGERIA, AS EMIR HEAPS PRAISES ON PRESIDENT FOR COMPLETED PROJECTS*

**VP has distinguished himself as a leader---Bauchi Governor*

From Azare, in the Katagum Emirate Council of Bauchi State, came a heap of praises on President Muhammadu Buhari for initiating and completing developmental projects in the country and especially in the Emirate.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN who was in Azare, Bauchi State to grace the wedding ceremony of former Ms. Fatima Adamu, (the daughter of Mallam Adamu Adamu, the Education Minister), stopped by on a courtesy call at the Emir of Katagum's Palace where the Emir, Alhaji Umar Farouk commended the President while listing some major completed projects in the State.

In his own remarks, the Vice President noted that the roll call of guests at the event is evidence of Nigeria's indivisibility regardless of ethnicity, religion and class.

Commending the President, and addressing the VP, the Emir said "I wish to, on behalf of our people, express our gratitude to Mr. President for all the projects that he was able to complete."

He then listed some of the projects as the Kano-Maiduguri road project that passes through Azare town and locating the University of Medical Sciences in the State among other projects.

The Emir also commended the President for appointing two ministers from Katagum Emirate (both of whom were at the palace: the Education Minister and the Industry, Trade and Investment, Minister of State, Amb. Mariam Katagum who he recalled was born "here in this palace."

The Emir equally praised the Bauchi State government for "all the projects he has undertaken in this Emirate."

Affirming the unity of Nigeria, Prof. Osinbajo said, "this is one occasion where you will find that our country is truly a united country and that nothing can separate this country, not ethnicity or religion or class. There is nothing that can separate this country. In fact, this is excellent evidence of the fact that this country is united."

The Vice President then commended the Emir of Katagum for ensuring unity among everyone residing in the emirate, nothing that "Katagum Emirate is a place where your Royal Highness has continuously demonstrated the willingness to accommodate people from all parts of the country."

He also commended the education minister for believing in a united country and also building bridges across party and religious lines to affirm his belief.

"Every one of us is here because of our personal relationship with you, this is the way leadership should be," the VP explained.

On his part, Governor Bala Mohammed praised the Vice President for his love for the people and most importantly, his leadership qualities.

According to him, "the people and government of Bauchi State are extremely grateful to you in particular. We know how you defied all the odds to come here from a foreign trip and this morning prepared to come here. This is the amount and the testimony of the respect you have for all of us, not just Mallam Adamu Adamu.

"Thank you very much sir, you have distinguished yourself as a leader defying all the odds. I remember you came and attended my daughter's wedding. That was very refined and it was very unique."

Dignitaries present at the event include, Senate President, Ahmed Lawan; Governors Abubakar Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi; Babagana Zulum of Borno; Mr Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti; Mohammed Badaru Abubakar of Jigawa; Simon Lalong of Plateau; Mai Mala Buni of Yobe and host, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi. Also the founding Chairman of the APC, Chief Bisi Akande and National Leader of the party, Ashiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu were also present.

Other Federal Ministers who also attended include Transportation: Mr Rotimi Amaechi; Information & Culture: Alhaji Lai Mohammed; and the Communications & Digital Economy: Dr Ali Isa Pantami.



*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*8th January 2022.*

Congratulations to the couple

Tested and Trusted✅✅✅

I'm sha crossing my fingers for Osinbajo 2023 by God's grace

Well deserved!

PRESS STATEMENT FROM SENATOR BABAFEMI OJUDU
SPECIAL ADVISER ON POLITICAL MATTERS TO THE PRESIDENT




OSINBAJO & 2023: NOT MY CALL



My attention has been called to a quotation attributed to me that is trending. It was to the effect that Prof Yemi Osinbajo , the Vice President will run for the office of President in 2023.

First let me reiterate again that Prof. Osinbajo is for now fully focused on working in his capacity as Vice President in the current administration, to address all the compelling issues in the country and concerns of Nigerians, including finding effective and lasting solutions to the security challenges and working to further boost the economy. He has not made any declaration in respect of the 2023 elections.

What happened was that I was in Port-Harcourt where I had a private meeting with some friends and interest groups. While at the meeting discussing politics, economy and a number of other subjects of public interest and well-being of our country someone asked me if Vice President Yemi Osinbajo will run for President come 2023. 

My answer to that  enquiry was that he is eminently qualified to contest and will he will be the one to decide whether to do so or not at an appropriate time.

I concede that Nigerians are highly interested in knowing if Osinbajo will run. Everywhere I go that is the question people ask me and I have always tried to be careful in my response whether to an individual or groups


While I appreciate and welcome the people’s love and admiration for Vice President Osinbajo, my counsel is we should all allow him to make the decision whether or not he is interested, by himself at the right time. It is certainly not a matter that will be pronounced on at a private meeting such as the one I participated in earlier this week in Port Harcourt.

*Statehouse Press Release*

*OUR SOCIAL INVESTMENT PROGRAMMES WILL ACCELERATE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS – OSINBAJO*

_*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

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

RELIEVING MSMES' FINANCIAL BURDENS, FG OPENS 5TH SHARED FACILITY IN EDO, AFTER BENUE, LAGOS, ANAMBRA & IMO

*Next: Kebbi, Kaduna, Ekiti, Bauchi, Ebonyi, Katsina, Kano, Ogun, others in 2022

*VP Osinbajo commissions Furniture Facility in Benin, commends “industrious people of Edo State"

In line with its initiative to persistently provide support for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, has restated the Buhari Administration’s determination to provide a more friendly regulatory environment for small businesses nationwide and so deepen the growth of the economy.

Supporting and ensuring the growth of MSMEs nationwide is a major reason why the Federal Government has so far, held MSMEs Clinics in 29 States Prof. Osinbajo says today while commissioning the fifth Shared Facility center in the country for small businesses. The Edo facility is focused on the furniture manufacturing sector.

According to him, “Shared Facilities provide MSME clusters with machinery that different businesses can use or rent for short periods. In addition to convenience and access to the latest equipment, this arrangement also spares them the financial burden of having to purchase vital equipment on their own."

Earlier this week on Tuesday, the VP had commissioned the fourth Shared Facility in Imo State, comprising 200 world-class manual and fully automated fashion equipment.

“MSMEs are a priority for the Buhari Administration because they are an engine of growth for the economy and because they account for almost half of national income and three-quarters of jobs,” the VP emphasized.

He further noted that the “facility is equipped with state-of-the-art machines and equipment, which when used to full capacity, can produce over 250 furniture items daily including doors, dining sets, credenzas and cabinets.”

Prof. Osinbajo urged MSMEs in Edo State within the furniture producing space to take full advantage of the facility to further improve their production.

Explaining the Federal Government’s Shared Facilities initiative under its National MSMEs Clinic Scheme, the Vice President said Government aims to provide at least one Shared Facility in every State of the Federation, to help MSMEs access world-class equipment to increase their production and quality at lower costs.

“In the course of running the Clinics, we noticed that in addition to their requests for a more friendly regulatory environment, MSMEs also wanted to be supported in terms of production facilities which were lacking or too expensive.”


Prof. Osinbajo recalled how Edo State had hosted the 16th National MSME Clinics in June, 2018, and the Federal Government’s collaboration with the State Government to establish the MSMEs Shared Facility in the State.

Commending Governor Godwin Obaseki and his team for the partnership and dedication towards the entire process, the VP noted that, “in addition to providing a suitable location, the State Government also provided the workspace to house the equipment,” the VP stated.

He disclosed that “on the Federal side, MSME partners such as the Bank of Industry, NEXIM Bank, NAFDAC, SON, ITF, Raw Materials and Research Development Council and the Private Sector came together with the Edo State Government which provided and renovated this premises.”

Prof. Osinbajo also said it was notable that the State Government was considering replicating furniture manufacturing clusters across some of its Technical Colleges.

“This would be very welcome as it underscores the real essence of this Shared Facility. It is our expectation that once a Shared Facility is commissioned, the State then expands the availability of such facilities for the benefits of our many industrious MSMEs,” he stated.

Apart from the new one commissioned today in Edo State, the other Shared Facilities are located in:

* Benue (200,000 capacity Yam Storage facility, Zaki Biam International Yam Market);

*Lagos (Eko MSME Fashion Hub 1 (one) which services about 300 tailors and fashion designers daily;

*The Anambra State Facility is in Ogbunike, Oyi, it is a shoemaking facility with industrial equipment and machines within close proximity of the Anambra shoe-makers;

*Imo State Shared Facility in Owerri, which is dedicated to fashion and comprises 200 world class manual and fully automated fashion equipment.

Pointing out that the Shared Facility being commissioned today is among the several that would be built across all States of the Federation, the Vice President restated plans to commission the next Shared Facilities in eight other States: Kaduna, Kebbi, Ogun, Ebonyi, Kano, Katsina, Ekiti and Bauchi.

The planned Shared Facilities in these States would cater for various segments of the MSMEs sector, including agriculture, textile production and fashion design, footwear and leather works.

The Vice President, who extended “President Muhammadu Buhari’s warm regards to the government and industrious people of Edo State,” commended the MSME partners and agencies for their contribution in birthing the project.

“It is also our expectation that our MSME partners will ensure that final products from here meet global standards and are fit for export to the rest of the world,” he added.

Prof. Osinbajo further noted that “as it is with other Shared Facilities commissioned, this Shared Facility will be run by a competent private sector firm while the Federal and State Governments keep a constant eye on its activities to ensure it achieves its set objectives.”

In his remarks, Edo State Governor Obaseki thanked the Federal Government and Vice President for supporting development initiatives in the State.

Later today after the commissioning of the Facility, the VP also attended the graduation of Edo State Government Tech Park where Governor Godwin Obaseki commended the Vice President for sowing the seed that has produced the take-off of the Park.

Also, the VP performed the laying of the foundation for the permanent site of the Park. There Governor Obaseki told the VP that "three years ago when you gave us the first innovation hub in the South-South, that mustard seed you sowed that day is what you saw at the take-off campus of the Tech Park, which you visited and met the first set of graduands. And that deed is what has brought us here this afternoon and has germinated to reflect where we want to be as a people.”

Besides the Vice President and the Governor, today's events were also witnessed by the Deputy Governor of Edo State Comrade Philip Shaibu and the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Clem Agba who accompanied the Vice President to Edo State.

‘Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
17th December 2021

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

WE MUST ENSURE ELECTORATE'S RIGHT OF FREE CHOICE, ITS VIOLATION UNDERMINES DEMOCRACY, SAYS OSINBAJO

Democracy remains the best system of establishing governments because it guarantees respect for the fundamental rights of individuals to choose their leaders, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this today in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, where he chaired a roundtable discussion, which was held in honour of the late governor of the State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, and in commemoration of his posthumous 72nd birthday.

Speaking on the theme of the Roundtable, Election Security and Good Governance in Nigeria, the VP noted that democracy as a “ system of governance guarantees the accountability of the elected to the electorate. As the electorate determine in every electoral cycle by their free choice whether the mandate given was properly utilized."

Referencing the timeless quote by the late US President Abraham Lincoln in his Gettysburg Address in 1863, Prof. Osinbajo submitted that “man has not yet developed a fairer and more just system of establishing governments than that the government be a government of the people by the people for the people.”

“This right of choice of leaders as given by democracy is not just a fundamental civil and political right, but it also separates man from animals for whom might confers the right to leadership,” he added.

According to him “the major issue, therefore, is how to ensure that right of free choice is not defeated or corrupted. Once that right of free choice is violated, the basis of democracy and its product, good governance, is undermined.”

“I am sure some of the conversation today will look at this fundamental point…how can we protect the vote, how do we ensure that every vote counts; how do we protect the government of the people, by the people, and for the people; and ensure, as Lincoln famously prayed at Gettysburg, that it does not perish from the earth?”

Prof. Osinbajo described the late governor Ajimobi as “an exceptional communicator and a natural bridge builder, who attained early success in the oil and gas industry, and then emerged as an astute politician, Senator of the Federal Republic, and two-term governor of Oyo State.”

The VP added that the late Senator Abiola Ajimobi was “a remarkable human being, an extraordinarily gifted man, astute politician, accomplished public intellectual and administrator in his own right.”

The former Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Professor Attahiru Jega, was the lead speaker, among other distinguished panels of discussants.

The Vice President also commissioned the Senator Abiola Ajimobi Resource Center built by the Senator Abiola Ajimobi Foundation at the Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies (IPSS), University of Ibadan, Oyo State.

Dignitaries at the event hosted by the late Senator Ajimobi's wife, Mrs. Florence Ajimobi included the Deputy Governors of Oyo and Osun States: Rauf Olaniyan and Benedict Gboyega Alabi; Minister of Sports and Youth Development Sunday Dare, traditional rulers and top government officials.


‘Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
16th December 2021

`STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

*FG TO CONDUCT ACCOUNTABILITY AUDIT OF AGENCIES, OSINBAJO SAYS AT PEBEC’S 5TH YEAR MILESTONE*

_*VP insists on a conducive business environment in order to attract more investments, create more jobs, opportunities for Nigerians_

Going forward, there will be a more aggressive accountability audit of various Federal Government agencies, identifying bureaucratic bottlenecks and removing them in a renewed effort to further improve the country’s business environment and economy.

This will in turn encourage more local and foreign investments, create more jobs and opportunities for Nigerians, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo made these observations on Wednesday night at the fifth anniversary celebration event of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), which held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja.

In improving the country’s business climate and making it more attractive for foreign and local investors, the Vice President noted that while creating jobs is government’s priority, the biggest job creator is the private sector, particularly small and medium enterprises.

“We must ensure that they are not hindered from doing business easily so they can produce the opportunities our nation needs,” he stated.

While noting that in some of the agencies, the heads "commit to change, but down the line the system either resists or is simply not well designed to function properly."

In such situations the VP served notice that what must be done in the coming months, is for the FG to "work with the agencies to implement a more aggressive accountability audit.”

"Where we identify the specific bottlenecks in systems possibly down to the particular desks where these problems arise; we may then come for agencies and officials who have failed or resisted change," he warned.

However, despite the challenges in some areas, the Vice President detailed how PEBEC’s reforms and efforts have been instrumental in improving Nigeria’s business environment in the last few years under the Buhari administration.

For instance, Prof. Osinbajo stated that since its inception, PEBEC has achieved the delivery of over 150 reforms and completed six National Action Plan (NAP).

“As a result, Nigeria has moved an aggregate of 39 places on the World Bank Doing Business index since 2016, and was twice named as one of the top 10 most improved economies in the world in the last three cycles. Nigeria was also named one of only two African countries to make this highly prestigious list in 2019.

“Similarly, the 2018 Subnational Doing Business report on Nigeria recorded unprecedented improvement, with 100% participation of States in the Right-of-Reply exercise. The World Economic Forum (WEF), in its 2018 Global Competitive Report, also recognized Nigeria's business environment as one of the most entrepreneurial in the world, and highlighted Nigeria's improved competitiveness in the enabling business environment," the VP observed.

He affirmed that PEBEC's reforms have “proved what is possible if we are hands-on and intentional in making it easy to do business in Nigeria.”

“We were fortunate to have a smart and visionary team led by Dr. Jumoke Oduwole (Special Adviser to the President on Ease of Doing Business), who, with her team of public and private sector members, designed the series of reform initiatives and internationally recognized homegrown National Action Plans (NAPs) - 60-day accelerators designed to coordinate the effective delivery of priority reforms of select Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) annually.

“At the federal level, the PEBEC secretariat also actively supports 15 priority public facing agencies and tracks 55 MDAs on the implementation of Executive Order 001 on Transparency and Efficiency of Pubic Service Delivery and the Council's feedback mechanism - ReportGov.NG.”

According to the Vice President, with the implementation of more of such reforms, most of the systemic problems can be solved, because “these systems work elsewhere and can work in Nigeria.”

PEBEC, which is chaired by the VP, with the membership of several ministers and collaboration with the Legislative and Judicial arms of government, was established by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2016 to improve Nigeria’s business environment by removing the bottlenecks and obstacles.

According to the VP, the initiative was to solve the problem of a business and trading environment that many had noted was hostile and difficult both for local and foreign investors.

He added that PEBEC’s mandate include seeking “to change the orientation of regulatory authorities and public servants who interface with businesses seeking government licenses, approvals and other regulatory requirements.”

Prof. Osinbajo acknowledged challenges raised by some businesses such as complaints about import and export delays, long waiting periods for product approvals, and assured that these would resolved.


Nonetheless, the Vice President highlighted the collaborative efforts of several reform-minded heads of MDAs in driving PEBEC reforms and Plans, explaining that they were instrumental in their development and implementation.

“But most notable is the sustained collaboration across all arms and levels of government - the National Assembly, the Judiciary, and all sub-national governments through a partnership with the National Economic Council,” he stated.

Prof. Osinbajo disclosed how the work of PEBEC has been expanded to include Local Governments, with the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) serving as a pilot.

Then, the Vice President, on behalf of the President, appreciated the members of the Council, the PEBEC team, all MDAs, and State Governments "for the excellent collaboration that has produced the great successes in the last five years.”

While acknowledging that the work of PEBEC is still far from being fully achieved, the VP admonished that members of the Council, from both the private and public sectors, could "take a moment to relish our accomplishments and leave here tonight renewed and reenergized for the work that lies ahead."

Also speaking, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Ambassador Mariam Katagum, who presented PEBEC’s 5-year empirical impact assessment book and commemorative coffee book, said the books were “in keeping faith with the Council’s tradition in documenting its activities and to employ fact-based metrics to measure the impact of its reforms.”

The Minister stated that the empirical impact assessment “was commissioned to assess the impact of reforms outlined in our National Action Plans,” adding that the commemorative coffee table book will “encourage those coming after us that, with purposeful leadership, we can achieve great feats.”

In her remarks, highlighting the achievement of the Council to promote the ease of doing business in Nigeria, Dr. Oduwole noted that “institutional reforms in the public sector were major factors in jump-starting and sustaining economic growth and development.”

She stated that the current administration was the first to dedicate a stand-alone segment of a national development plan to such an intervention, under the competitive pillar of its Economic Recovery and Growth Plan of 2017-2020.

The colourful event was also attended by several dignitaries, including the Chairman, Senate Committee On Media And Public Affairs, Senator Ajibola Basiru; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha; Minister of Information & Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Olamilekan Adegbite; Minister of State, Budget & National Planning, Clem Agba; and the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Olorunnimbe Mamora.

Also present were the Special Adviser to the President On Social Investments, Mrs. Maryam Uwais; Heads Of Government Agencies and Parastatals; Members of the Diplomatic Corps; Development Partners; Captains of Industry, among others.

*‘Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*16th December, 2021*

*Statehouse Press Release*

*VP HOSTS ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PRAISE CONCERT FEATURING PASTOR KUMUYI, GOSPEL ARTISTES, CHORAL GROUPS FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY*

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, hosted the annual Christmas Praise Concert last night at the Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, commemorating the Christmas season.

The General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor W.F. Kumuyi, who delivered the Christmas message, preached on "the divine revelation, divine realization and the glory of the destined restoration that Christ brought to the world."

The Carol service also featured gospel artistes including Mercy Chinwo, Ernest Dades, and choirs drawn from different geopolitical zones across the country.

Besides the Aso Villa Chapel Choir, other choral groups that ministered last night at the old Presidential Banquet Hall were the Kaduna Metropolitan Choir, Kaduna State; Unity Choir, from the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria, Yola, Adamawa State; De Avon Chorale and Orchestra, Cross River State; Royal City Chorale, Owerri, Imo State; Lagos City Chorale and the Hallelujah Nigeria African Carol.

Apart from the rendition of Christmas Carols, there were also the reading of selected Scriptures by the Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa; Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Folashade Yemi-Esan; the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mary Beth Leonard, and His Royal Majesty, the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse, from Gboko, Benue State.

The yearly Praise Concert did not hold last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the attendant restriction protocols.

In his sermon, Pastor W.F. Kumuyi, spoke about the story of the desired expectation, song of divine visitation, symphony of delightful jubilation, and sanctity of dutiful proclamation.

Referencing the Scriptures, especially the Gospels, the guest preacher spoke on the fact that the angels came to announce joy and peace (which is personal and perpetual) on earth. He said, “the message is the angel’s announcement from on high to meet us, this nation and to every nation of the world at this time until Christ comes again.”

He went on to say that “there is the irreversible decree that the Saviour would come, as we believe in Him, the decree is fulfilled in our lives” as well as “the irresistible dominion that God has remembered us... by giving us a saviour.”

The State House Chaplain, Pastor Joseph Seyi Malomo, who led a brief special prayer for Nigeria and its leaders, quoted from the Psalms that “it is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, to proclaim His loving kindness in the morning, and His faithfulness every night.”

“We thank God for bringing us to the end of this year; also, for the fact that last year, we could not gather physically, it means therefore that now we are overcoming the war against COVID-19. Eventually COVID-19 will be history by the grace of God,” he prayed.

Aside from the Vice President, other dignitaries who also graced the Carol service included his wife, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha; Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr Emmanuel Akabe; Federal Ministers; members of the National Assembly; heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies; members of the Diplomatic Corp; His Royal Majesty, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, and his wife, Olori Atuwase III, His Royal Highness, King Alfred Diete-Spiff, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass, Bayelsa State amongst others.

*Laolu Akande,*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity,*
*Office of the Vice President.*
14th December 2021