₦airaland Forum

Osinbajo will do well as a President

Teachers deserves the best!

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

*WORLD TEACHERS’ DAY:*
*OSINBAJO HOSTS TEACHER OF THE YEAR AS FORMER STUDENTS SHARE 'SURPRISE' VIDEO COMMEMORATING VP'S 40 YEARS TEACHING ANNIVERSARY*

_*Say his teachings as university lecturer impacted their lives and careers positively_

_*VP sends greetings to all Nigerian teachers_

In commemoration of the World Teachers’ Day - Tuesday, past students of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, have spoken about his contributions to, and impact on their lives and career paths, just as the VP himself welcomed the teacher of the year, Ms. Oluwabunmi Anani, to the Presidential Villa and sent a video greeting to all Nigerian teachers.

Several of Prof. Osinbajo’s law students, many of whom are today distinguished scholars and legal practitioners, unknown to their teacher, had produced a short video speaking glowingly of him; and many more among them also joined a virtual event celebrating the law teacher who started teaching in 1981 at the University of Lagos (UNILAG). Osinbajo himself was only 24 then.

At different periods spanning the 80s, 90s and 2000s, Prof. Osinbajo was a lecturer and then Senior Lecturer of Law at UNILAG, Professor of Law and Head of Department of Public Law at the University. He also taught Law at the Lagos State University.

In a heart-warming 5-minute video which trended on Tuesday on different social media platforms, Osinbajo’s former students and alumni of UNILAG, each recounted how his lectures made them better students and successful career professionals.

According to his students, Prof. Osinbajo was a brilliant and an excellent teacher.

The Vice President's old students recalled memories of how he taught the Law of Evidence, with most of them observing that the then young, charming lecturer delivered lectures, quoted legal authorities and citations without using notes.

Among some of the former students of the VP who spoke in the video and at the virtual meeting yesterday were Prof. Fidelis Oditah, QC, SAN; Supreme Court Justice John Inyang Okoro; Mrs Bimbo Akeredolu, SAN; Mr. Wahab Shittu; Major-Gen (rtd). Pat Akem-Vingir; Prof. Adesoji Adesugba; a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Iduma Igariwey; and the Deputy Chief of Staff in the Presidency, Mr. Ade Ipaye.

Others included Ms. Onikepo Braithwaite of Thisday Newspapers; Mr. Joseph Chiedu Ugbo, the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC); Mr. Andrew Attah; Mr. Adekunle Awodiji; Mr. Bassey Ekwere; Mrs. Remi Ladega and Mr. Abdulrahman Abdurazaq, all legal practitioners.

There was also Mrs. Toyin Odusanya, who noted that Prof. Osinbajo also lectured her daughter. Ogun State Attorney-General, Gbolahan Adeniran, also spoke on the video, noting that the VP mentored and taught that it is the duty of Attorneys-General to ensure that "justice is placed at the heart of governance."

Earlier before the surprise video, the VP had earlier received the Maltina Teacher of the Year 2020, Oluwabunmi Anani, and members of the Nigerian Breweries Limited, NBL, who sponsored the award. While celebrating the teacher based in Adamawa State, Prof. Osinbajo told her, "you have done us proud, as teachers; by your passion and commitment. (Unlike you) many people end up teaching because they have no choice."

He continued "But teaching is the most important, because everyone is a product of teaching. We have to find a way to promote that notion, which is why the NBL initiative of the Maltina Teacher of the Year is good. We need more support for this kind of initiative so that teachers will be appreciated.

"We also have to invest more in teacher training and advancing the works of teachers in various ways. If a teacher is well-trained, he or she will have greater esteem and attract other people."

He added that while he shares the view that teaching is a calling, "we must find a way to make it more interesting."

The VP then said the Federal Government will do its part to ensure that teachers are better rewarded.

According to him “the President is concerned about improving the lots of teachers, but States have a role to play."

He disclosed that there were also moves to employ teachers into the public service starting from level 8 as against level 7.

Already, he said, “the Federal Government, on its part, has been doing a bit of work in trying to improve the lot of teachers. For example, there is a policy now, though not a law yet, it is still in the National Assembly, about moving the retirement age of teachers in the public service from 60 to 65. That’s an additional five years; then we are also looking at their remuneration.”

The VP then prayed for the Teacher of the Year, saying "God will help you as you help so many. You will not be disgraced in Jesus name."

The Maltina Teacher of the Year Award, which aims to recognize and celebrate exceptional teachers in Nigeria, is open to teachers in all secondary schools across the country. While State Champions that emerge from the 36 States and the FCT are recognised and rewarded, the overall National Winner is picked from these State Champions after further assessment.

Anani, the current holder of the title, was accompanied on the visit to the Presidential Villa by Uzodinma Odenigbo, Head of Public and Government Affairs, Nigerian Breweries Limited.

After receiving Anani and later watching the suprise video, Prof. Osinbajo expressed excitement at the gesture of his former students, saying that teaching was something he did effortlessly because of his passion for it.

“I certainly did not except to be celebrated in this way. Yesterday when I was doing a video recording for the Teachers’ Day, I was saying, well, I must be close to 40 years; I didn’t realize that it was 40 years since I started teaching.

“But I am deeply grateful to all of you for the very kind words; your very generous remarks about me, about my humble efforts to pass information to you.

In the VP's own video to mark the World Teachers’ Day, he recalled how his teachers and lecturers positively impacted his life and career.

Thanking all teachers for their contributions, he said in the video, “on this special day, the World Teachers’ Day, I’d like to thank all teachers in this nation, wherever you may be; whether you are in a village or in the city or in town, I like to wish you ‘Happy Teachers’ Day.’

“We are extremely proud of what you do, we are extremely proud of your work. We sincerely appreciate all the sacrifices that you make every single day. We regard you as a major pillar of our society. Happy Teachers’ Day. God bless you.”

*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*6th October, 2021*

Happy Teachers Day, they truly deserves better. God bless our Teachers

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

*OSINBAJO TO NIGERIANS: DON’T GIVE UP, OUR CHALLENGES HAVE SOLUTIONS*

_*Level playing field important for political participation, says VP_

_*Adds: The quality of contributions is not necessarily defined by age_

No doubt Nigeria’s problems are surmountable, but the solutions require the coming together of like minds especially the best hands because “our generational challenges have generational solutions”, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this in Abuja on Monday evening at the public presentation of a book titled ‘Politics that Works – What Schools and Seminars won’t Teach You about Winning Elections’, co-authored by Sen. Babafemi Ojudu and Mr. Alex James.

According to the Vice President, “our generational challenges have the generational solutions, let’s just face the issues and solve them, whether we are in government or planning to get into government.

“We mustn’t give up and we mustn’t keep looking back. The challenges of today are meant for those of us who are here and alive today. And they are meant to be solved by young people, and as I always say, there is no better time to be alive. This is the best time in Nigeria to be young. Those who are young today have the best opportunity ever.”

“I think this country needs the best minds. If you look at the variety of talents that we have, we have everything that it takes for a great country but it is the coming together of like minds, coming together of people who agree on the same things, old or young.

“I don’t think we should divide ourselves along these lines because this country can be great but we need that coming together of the best minds whether male or female,” the VP added.

"For me, my central concern is how do we get the very best people to work in the interest of this country, how do we get the best people to project the image of the country?”

Speaking further, Prof. Osinbajo noted that “my view is that we must continue to work at it, we must continue to make the sacrifice that is required to be able to get our views across and we must continue to organize to do so. We can’t give up, we can’t say things are so difficult, it is so difficult to enter the space. If we keep at it, one day, we will get the right result, we will get the right mix.

“Every country deserves excellent leadership; it deserves the best it can get. But excellent leadership doesn’t come by accident. It doesn’t come by lack of effort; you just have to keep making the effort.”

Emphasizing the need for a level-pIaying field for all aspiring politicians, the VP said “I am very strongly of the view that everyone must be invited to the party. The important thing is that we have, as well as possible, a level playing field.”

His words: “the problem also with liberal politics is money. Who has the resources? Because resources will to a large extent determine who can play the game. So, there are barriers.

“I think what is important is to see how we can remove those barriers as much as possible so there is a level playing field. What I have experienced serving in the position as Vice President in the past few years and having the opportunity to bring on board young people, some elderly people in relative terms, is that the quality of the contributions is not necessarily defined by age.”

The VP clarified the impression that a level playing field should be defined by age. He noted that “…we must focus our minds, a little more on what people bring to the table. I don’t engage on the basis of age.”

Making the point about experience, Prof. Osinbajo opined that “there is a place for preparation, a place for getting ready. There is no point saying that I have become Minister of Finance at the age of 25 because I am a smart kid. It takes more than that.”

Said the VP: “I don’t agree that a special assistant or special adviser is not a somewhat serious position. Every special assistant or special adviser that I have, take very important decisions. And they take those very important decisions on their own.

“The truth is that, the way governments are set up, everybody there can play a very serious role. It depends on how very serious you are. My experience is that there is such a variety of talents, some are old, some are young, male or female. I really will like us to zero in on the real needs of our nation.”

Other dignitaries present at the event include former Governors of Edo, Adams Oshiomhole; Osun, Rauf Aregbesola; Zamfara, Ahmed Yerima; Kano, Ibrahim Shekarau, and former Senate Leader, Sen. Ndoma Egba, among others.


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

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE


GENERATIONAL CHALLENGES HAVE GENERATIONAL SOLUTIONS - OSINBAJO


REMARKS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, PROF. YEMI OSINBAJO, SAN, GCON, THE VICE PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA AT THE LAUNCH OF SENATOR BABAFEMI OJUDU AND ALEX ADEKUNLE JAMES’ BOOK TITLED: ‘POLITICS THAT WORKS – WHAT SCHOOLS AND SEMINARS WON’T TEACH YOU ABOUT WINNING ELECTIONS’, AT THE NAF CONFERENCE CENTRE, ABUJA ON 4TH OCTOBER, 2021

PROTOCOLS

I took the time to mention those who are former governors and former senators to continue to make the point that has been made earlier, these people don’t want to go anywhere.

Senator Femi Ojudu and Mr. Alex James, thank you very much for your kind invitation to be a part of the launch of this very important work - Politics That Works – What Schools And Seminars Won’t Teach You About Winning Elections. This is a book co-authored by the two gentlemen.

But I think that two important promises are contained in this whole effort. The first is that this book will teach us what we don’t know already about winning elections. And it is the sorts of things that are not taught anywhere. And frankly for those who are here, I can name a few who can teach us so many things about what no one has yet taught you about winning elections.

As a matter of fact, when I came into politics, I really thought I knew all that could possibly happen in politics, having been in one way or the other involved. I can assure you that the past few years has taught me that there is so much that you cannot even be taught in any book, no matter what the book may say because there are too many wonderful things that happen. Of course, those of us who are participants will tell you that there are too many wonderful things that can happen.

The second is that this is an inter-generational effort. One between a sixty something year old Senator Femi Ojudu and a twenty something, (I believe) year old Alex Adekunle James. Both are trying to teach important lessons here, that the best way that this could work is where there is an inter-generational handshake, the young and the old, as opposed to any attempt to defile the tenets of liberal politics, by saying that it is one group or the other.

The type of politics that most of us will prefer is liberal politics, free enterprise, democracy, individual freedom. It means that there can be no discrimination either on the basis of age, gender or political persuasion. So, that is why we negotiate our way through these things. And I think the point was made by some of the speakers.

So, in liberal democracy, it is about negotiation. There will be negotiation on the basis of gender; women will say we don’t have representation, young people will say we don’t have representation. And then we start talking about quotas or affirmative action or some solution or the other. The simple reason is that the very basis of liberal democracy is that everybody is invited to the table. How you get there (and I like some of what has been said), whether you bring your chair there yourself or get there through the window, however you get there, get there.


I am very strongly of the view that everyone must be invited to this party. The important thing is that we have, as well as possible, a level playing field. The problem also with liberal politics is money. Who has the resources? Because resources will, to a large extent, determine who can play the game.


For example, somebody who has a major company, who has the resources will probably be able to get to the game faster than a 60-year-old man with all his experience but no money. So, there are barriers.


I think what is important is to see how we can remove those barriers as much as possible so there is a level playing field. What I have experienced serving in the position as Vice President in the past few years and having the opportunity to bring on board young people, some elderly people in relative terms, is that the quality of the contributions is not necessarily defined by age. And that is the honest truth, and I have so many brilliant people working with me and they are not intimidated, (I must tell you) by anybody older than them.

So, the youngest person working with me was just 22 years old, she just came out from the University and was very brilliant, and very assertive, she knew her onions. And Ahmad who is 37 years old is Special Adviser on Infrastructure, I have a Special Adviser on Political Affairs who is 60 years old, or the Economic Adviser, Ambassador Dipeolu who is over 60.

There are so many young people, Balkisu Saidu who is SSA Legal, she has an interesting history – she was married off at the age of 13, had her first child at the age of 14. Through all of that, her mum made sure she had her education. And she is a professor today, and she is still under the age of 40, with her three grown children.

The truth of the matter is that she comes to the job with a lot of experience that nobody else has. She comes to the job with a variety of ideas. There is Tola Johnson, many of those who are here.

I think we must focus our minds, a little more on what people bring to the table. I don’t engage on the basis of age. I met Rauf for the first time when we were in the transition committee of Lagos State in 1999, he was barely 42 years old and I was just about the same age). He was campaign manager for Bola Ahmed Tinubu at that time, he was 42 but he ran all the campaign at the time, but he has been at it since then. I had been adviser to the Attorney General of the Federation when I was 31, so I had some experience coming into this.


So, there is a place for preparation, a place for getting ready. There is no point saying that I have become Minister of Finance at the age of 25 because I am a smart kid. It takes more than that. If you are going to get in, in the Nigerian system, in this system of ours, to walk through all that is required, I think you need some experience, a bit of it, you don’t have to be very old. But it helps if you have served in one capacity or the other as a Special Adviser or Special Assistant, all of those positions are very central positions. I don’t agree that a Special Assistant or Special Adviser is not a somewhat serious position.

Every Special Assistant or Special Adviser that I have, take very important decisions, and they take those very important decisions on their own. And the truth is that, the way governments are set up, everybody there can play a very serious role, it depends on how very serious you are. My experience is that there is such a variety of talents, some are old, some are young, male or female.

I really will like us to zero in on the real needs of our nation. I think this country needs the best minds. If you look at the variety of talents that we have, we have everything that it takes for a great country, but it is the coming together of like minds, coming together of people who agree on the same things, old or young. I don’t think we should divide ourselves along ethnic lines because this country can be great, but we need that coming together of the best minds whether male, female.

For me, my central concern is how do we get the very best people to work in the interest of this country, how do we get the best people to project the image of the country. I must say that politics, especially partisan politics has not necessarily delivered on a lot of the promises that we expect from partisan politics. What you find is that many times you are disappointed by even just the results, and what happens, the whole process, those who are able to get the chance to go forward. Sometimes you are just disappointed, but that is the nature of democracy.


My view is that we must continue to work at it, we must continue to make the sacrifice that is required to be able to get our views across and we must continue to organize to do so. We can’t give up, we can’t say things are so difficult, it is so difficult to enter the space. If we keep at it, one day, we will get the right result, we will get the right mix.


Every country deserves excellent leadership; it deserves the best it can get. But excellent leadership doesn’t come by accident, it doesn’t come by lack of effort, you just have to keep making the effort.
I was speaking the other day to someone about our police, and I was saying that a country (the UK) dissolved its police force three times - just dissolved and started all over again before they got it right. So, a country evolves, people evolve, ideas evolve, so we mustn’t be afraid of even where we are today.

When people look back and say that things are so difficult that they have never seen this kind of situation, always be careful about people who are always talking about the good old days. They either have a loss of memory or there is something else wrong with them. (People will say that in the past things were so great, they talk about the good old days, in fact, sometimes you wonder if you were not in the same country with them.)

We mustn’t give up and we mustn’t keep looking back. The challenges of today are meant for those of us who are here and alive today, and they are meant to be solved by young people, and as I always say, there is no better time to be alive. This is the best time to be young. This is the best time in Nigeria to be young. Those who are young today have the best opportunity ever. In my own day when I was a professor, if I had to research to write an article, it will take me weeks. Today if I just take my iPad, I can get on to any library anywhere in the world and get all the information and write my article in hours instead of weeks, months or years.

It was Fareed Zakaria, who was saying that our smartphone which we carry today, carry a hundred times more computing power than the Apollo Space Rocket that took men to the moon.


Our generational challenges have the generational solutions, let’s stop complaining, let’s just face the issues and solve them. Whether we are in government or planning to get into government, however we want to do it, let’s just get to the table and solve the problem.

I’d like to thank the authors of this book, I have had the opportunity to look at the book and I think it is going to be very worthwhile reading it for those of you who haven’t seen it or read the book, especially for those who want to go into politics. It promises (as the authors have said) to be a manual for being able to not just get nominated, but being able to win. I am also looking forward to studying the book more closely because we still have elections in 2023.


Thank you very much.

Released by:
Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
5th October 2021

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

HOW COMMODITY MARKET & EXCHANGE CAN DEVELOP AGRICULTURAL SECTOR - OSINBAJO

There is a need to focus on developing our agricultural value chain, particularly the business of guaranteeing the creation of a proper commodity market with the right logistics that would be mutually beneficial to farmers and consumers, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

He made this assertion on Monday while receiving a delegation from Gezawa Commodity Market and Exchange, a Kano State based private company that provides a specialized organized market, operating efficient transaction and delivery of agricultural, solid minerals, and energy-based commodities. The delegation was led by the Managing Director of the company, Mr. Muhammad Rabi’I Elyakub.

Prof Osinbajo stated that “we need all the focus that we can on developing our agricultural value chain, especially the business of ensuring that we create a proper market so that there is value," adding we must make sure that "we are able to resource that chain well.”

The VP acknowledged that in Nigeria, “we are top producers of so many different agricultural products as well as minerals.

"It is in adding value, ensuring the value chain works effectively, ensuring that we can process, store and trade, that’s really where the missing link is.”

Elaborating on the importance of the agricultural value chain, Prof Osinbajo reiterated that “I don’t know of any society that has been able to develop the whole value chain from farm to table without a very vibrant commodity exchange.”

He lauded the idea of a private commodity exchange noting that “a private commodity exchange is very important. I am a strong believer in the private sector’s involvement."

Prof Osinbajo then commended the commodity company for having made “very quick progress in a very short time," adding that the company has covered substantial ground.

He continued, “I’m impressed with what you have done so far. I think the idea is that there is only one way to make agriculture profitable for the average farmer and that is by creating a market that is systematic and recognizes value and you can’t do that without establishing a proper market."


While giving a presentation, the Chief Financial Officer of Gezawa Commodity Exchange, Dr. Abdullahi Ya’u highlighted the importance of having a commodity exchange market.

He stated that without an exchange “it would take Nigeria ages for the farmers, producers, traders in commodities to discover their potential, but with the exchanges, we can be easily globally seen and standardize based on international best practices. I believe this is one of the core anthems of this government.”

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
5th October 2021

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

NIGERIA'S RELATIONS WITH SÃO TOMÉ AND PRINCIPE GROWING, SAYS OSINBAJO AT PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION

Nigeria's relationship with the twin-island Central African nation of Sao Tome and Principe has been growing over the years and would even now be further strengthened.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, made the assertion at the Presidential Inauguration of the new President of Sao Tome and Principe, Mr Carlos Manuel Vila Nova, today in Sao Tome city.

The event which held at the country's Parliament Building was attended by leaders from Africa and Europe. Besides Prof. Osinbajo who represented President Muhammadu Buhari, other leaders who graced the swearing-in ceremony include the President of Portugal, Mr. Marcelo Rebeto, the President of Guinea-Bissau, Mr Sissolo Embalo, the Vice President of Angola, Mr. Bonito De Sousa, and other dignitaries.

The inauguration was also witnessed by the immediate past President, Mr Carlos Carvalho, and the Prime Minister of São Tomé and Principe, Mr Jorge Bom Jesus.

"We think that São Tomé and Principe is an important partner and we have a very strategic relationship which is why we are here not just to felicitate with the new President, but to re-establish a relationship, a relationship which by the way has been growing from strength to strength over the years, " Prof. Osinbajo said when accosted by the Press right after the swearing-in ceremony.

He noted that both countries are now "looking at strengthening bilateral relations because of the strategic partnership between the two countries."

According to the Vice President “we have a joint development arrangement especially with respect to the oil and gas sector where we share a common interest.

“We are also looking at strengthening relationships in other respects [such as ] hospitality, agriculture and all of that."

While felicitating with the new President, Prof. Osinbajo expressed Nigeria’s readiness to re-establish stronger ties with the island country.

Vice President Osinbajo was accompanied by the Foreign Affairs Minister of State, Ambassador Zubairu Dada, and joined by some members of the House of Representatives including Hon. Hafiz Kawu, as well as Nigeria’s Ambassador to São Tomé and Principe, Mr. Christopher Chiejina.

Later, the newly sworn-in President Vila Nova held his first bilateral meeting as President with Vice President Osinbajo at the Presidential Office in Sao Tome city, where both leaders exchanged pleasantries and expressed readiness to deepen diplomatic and economic relationships.

Prof. Osinbajo has since returned to Abuja.


Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
2nd October, 2021

God bless Nigeria

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*

*WHY SOCIAL PROTECTION SCHEMES ARE CRUCIAL, BY OSINBAJO AT UN HIGH-LEVEL FORUM ON JOBS*

**VP restates call for equitable vaccine distribution, sustained funding of gas projects*


Social protection schemes can break the cycle of poverty, give real access to jobs, economic opportunities, and improve human capacity, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

This submission was made by the Vice President earlier today virtually during a United Nations High-Level Forum on Jobs and Social Protection.

According to the Vice President, for instance, Nigeria’s response to the fallouts of COVID-19 was guided by the conviction that “social protection schemes are crucial, and can break the cycle of poverty, give real access to jobs and economic opportunities, and improve human capacity and productivity.”

He added that the Economic Sustainability Plan (the government’s response) is aimed at restoring growth by mitigating the macroeconomic shocks, tackling the health challenge, averting business closures, protecting and creating jobs, protecting the poor and vulnerable while repositioning the economy for future resilience.

Prof. Osinbajo further explained that “in addition to scaling up health interventions, the Plan contained labour-intensive interventions in agriculture, housing, and public works programmes and the provision of solar energy to 5 million homes.”

Continuing, he said “the ESP also had a Survival Fund which gave payroll support to small businesses in manufacturing and services as well as to artisans and transporters. As a result of our interventions, we have been able to provide finance and off-take opportunities for millions of farmers.

“We have also been able to save up to 1 million jobs and prevented the close-down of at least 150,000 small businesses. We are also able to extend support to vulnerable groups by deepening our existing social intervention programmes and the development of a Rapid Response Register for cash transfers to the urban poor.”

Noting that poor financial resources remain a constraint to achieving set objectives, Prof. Osinbajo acknowledged "the importance of the recently approved increase of $650 billion in SDR allocations for improving global liquidity.”

(The Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) are supplementary foreign exchange reserve assets defined and maintained by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). They represent a claim to currency held by IMF member countries for which they may be exchanged.)

The VP also restated the call for improved access to vaccines and sustained funding of gas projects, stating that “we believe also that the already challenging global environment is now being further complicated by lack of access to vaccines as well as by policy moves in developed economies and international financial institutions to defund gas projects.”

He reiterated “it is clear that climate change and environmental damage will harm the prospect of creating jobs in many countries of the world including ours. Yet we know that access to energy is vital for generating the fast growth required to create jobs and to provide the resources for social protection.

“For a gas rich country like Nigeria, we have to deploy gas not only for electricity but also to reduce the carbon emissions that result from the use of firewood and coal for cooking.”

Prof. Osinbajo had at different forums, raised the issue of financing of gas projects in developing countries, like Nigeria, advocating for a just transition and more effective engagements towards the target of Net-Zero Emission by 2050.

As part of measures to actualize the global target of Net-Zero Emission by 2050, some developed economies and international financial institutions are announcing the defunding of gas and fossil fuel projects across the world.

Nigeria has risen against such defunding as it hampers the growth and developmental efforts of developing countries.




*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*28th September 2021*

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

*WE ARE REFORMING, INCREASING POLICE RECRUITMENT, IMPROVING SECURITY & UNRELENTING IN FIGHTING TERRORISM, BANDITRY, CRIMINALITY, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI*

_*President was represented by VP Osinbajo at NDDC donated Police Barracks commissioning in Rivers State_

_*Adds: Commissioning part of our efforts to improve livelihood of officers, peace, prosperity and development of Niger Delta_

_*Urges NDDC to execute projects that will benefit the people of Niger Delta_

In line with ongoing reforms of the Police and efforts towards improving the nation’s security architecture, President Muhammadu Buhari has restated his administration’s commitment to provide various platforms for all the security agencies in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and all forms of criminality.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, who represented the President and also delivered the remarks on his behalf, stated this today at the official commissioning ceremony of the Special Protection Unit (SPU) Base 6 barracks of the Nigerian Police, at Omagwa, in Rivers State.

The President added that the event is part of the Administration’ efforts to improve the lives and livelihoods of our police officers, and also improve peace and security efforts in the Niger Delta region.

Speaking on behalf of the President, Prof. Osinbajo stated that, “today’s event meets two objectives. First, it is an important part of our efforts to improve the lives and livelihoods of our police officers and it is also another important milestone in my administration’s pursuit of the peace, prosperity and development of the Niger Delta.

“We recognize that establishing adequate security is absolutely integral to the fulfillment of this objective which is why we have committed significant resources to projects such as we are about to commission.”

Highlighting the Administration ongoing Police reforms, the President noted that the Police Force was a crucial component of the country’s law enforcement architecture.

He said, “they are the civil force, the closest to the people in the various communities. In the past months we have been undertaking a major reform of the Police.

“First we believe that we must increase the number of police personnel. So, we have set yearly recruitment targets. We also are in the process of re-equipping our personnel, both in personal gear and hardware. An important feature of the reform is accommodation for men and officers.


“I have directed that the building of barracks for men should be done in collaboration with the social housing effort of the Family Homes Fund. This will ensure speed in execution.

“Funding of the police force remains a huge challenge. Which is why we worked with the National Assembly to enact the Police Trust Fund Act. We are also looking at other measures to improve funding for the Police.”

According to the President, “This project is important because it is a means by which we can alleviate the accommodation challenges of senior security personnel posted to Rivers State and ultimately enhance the security footprint in the region.

“The cumulative impact of this and other similar projects will be the improvement of security in the state and the consolidation of the economic and social life of the people of the area.”

Thanking Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State for his warm and generous hospitality, the Vice President also commended the Honourable Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, “for providing leadership and resilience amidst mounting challenges” as well as the Minister of Police Affairs and the Inspector General of Police “for their hard work and dedication to the enormous task of repositioning the Police.”

On behalf of the President, the VP commended the NDDC, while urging the Commission to execute more projects that will benefit the people of the Niger Delta.

“The Federal Government has invested significantly in the NDDC and we recognize that this outlay of resources must be justified with verifiable projects that will improve the living standards of the people in the region,” he noted.

The President added that the edifice should be properly employed for the benefit of the entire people of Nigeria.

The Special Protection Unit Base 6 barracks, which was built and donated by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to the Nigeria Police Force, consists of 66 units of accommodation for officers of the Special Protection Unit (SPU).

It also comprises a five-bedroom commander’s quarters, functional office accommodation, a sentry post, guardroom with armoury and a parade ground of the Nigerian Police Force.

Accompanying the Vice President to the event were the Ministers of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and the Minister of Police Affairs, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi.

There were other senior Federal and State Government officials, including the Interim Administrator of the NDDC, Mr Effiong Akwa; Special Adviser to the President on Political Affairs, Senator Babafemi Ojudu; and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Ita Enang; among others.

*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*28th September, 2021*

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*

OSINBAJO TO JOURNALISTS:
YOUR CIVIC VIGILANCE, STEADFAST BELIEF IN RULE OF LAW, COMMENDABLE

**NUJ commends Buhari administration for youth empowerment, job creation initiatives*



Nigerian journalists got the kudos from Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN for what he described as their commendable “civic vigilance” regarding the country.

He then reminded the journalists that like other Nigerians, “this country is ours, whether we are press, politicians or religious people, the country is ours, and we must do everything to ensure that the country remains safe, secure, and united, and this so important.”

Prof. Osinbajo stated this today when he received at the Presidential Villa, the national executive of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) led by its President, Mr Chris Isiguzo.

According to the VP, “I thank you for your civic vigilance, for the very kind words you have spoken about Nigeria, and for remaining steadfast in your belief for the rule of law and press freedom in the country.”

He said further that “as I keep saying, the elite in our country, those of us who have had the benefit of education, positions and all of that, we owe millions of our people who are poor, who have no access and have no voice, a duty to ensure that we don’t let things become worse for them.”

Referring to other places where the press and government collaborated to protect the information space, the VP called on stakeholders in Nigeria to replicate such efforts in the interest of security and unity.

His words: “there are so many countries faced with a national challenge and where you have people who are prepared to subvert the entire republic, the press works actively with government to ensure that the information space is protected in such a way that people who want to subvert the republic are not allowed to do so.

“But I think it is important because your voices as respected members of the fourth estate of the realm, your voices are very important in moderating the kinds of views that we hear constantly which in the end, (if care is not taken) subverts the polity.”

Continuing, the VP noted that “it is important for us to continue to emphasize that the unity of this country is crucial because if this country breaks up in any way or becomes the subject of what some people will like it to be, all of us will lose out. Obviously, the elite will survive in any way but the vast majority of our people will not.

“So, I will urge that we should as much as possible do whatever we can in our spaces that we occupy to keep emphasizing that we cannot afford a situation where the national unity of this country is compromised or where the country is made the theater of conflict and all sorts of insurgencies and crimes.”

Earlier in his opening remarks, the President of the union, Mr Isiguzo commended the initiatives of the Buhari administration in the areas of employment opportunity creation, skills training for the youth, among others.

He said in acknowledgment of its role in the society, the union has over the years “engaged in training and retraining of Journalists with assistance from various development partners to build capacity of journalists to effectively bring to public attention humanitarian situations in the country in a fair manner, honestly, and constructively.”

Mr Isiguzo noted that the union frowned against fake news and would do everything in its powers to check the menace, calling on “journalists to be careful not to be tempted into propagating fake news by ensuring proper and adequate checks before stories are written and transmitted for public consumption.”

The NUJ president also restated the call for a bailout fund to be provided for the media industry, noting that many media houses are forced to cut salaries or lay off their workers because of the increasing difficulty to sustain operations.

National executive members of the union present at the meeting include the Deputy President, Alhaji Mukhtar Gidado; National Secretary, Shuaibu Leman; President of the National Association of Women Journalists, (NAWOJ), Ladi Bala; FCT Chairman of the union, Mr Emmanuel Ogbeche, among others.



Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
27th September 2021

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*

*NEW NIGERIA-RUSSIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, OPPORTUNITY TO CONSOLIDATE TRADE, BUSINESS – OSINBAJO*

**VP receives delegation of Russian govt & business representatives*


With mutual diplomatic relations between both countries dating back to the 60s, the formal inauguration of a Nigeria-Russia Chamber of Commerce and Industry will greatly consolidate efforts made to deepen the long-lasting relationship and invigorate business opportunities, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo made the observation today when he received a delegation of the Nigeria-Russia Chamber of Commerce and Industry led by its President, Chief Obiora Okonkwo, at the Presidential Villa. The delegation also included representation from the Russian government, including a special envoy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Mr Oleg Ozerov, and the country’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Alexey Shebarshim.

According to the Vice President, “…after a very extensive period of collaboration between our countries, frankly, I was quite surprised that we don’t already have a Nigeria-Russia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, I assumed that such a body already existed. It is never too late to do a good thing. This is an auspicious time to do so, especially given all of the economic opportunities before us.”

Referring to a previous meeting of African leaders and Russian business executives in 2019, Prof. Osinbajo noted that the interaction “was an excellent introduction to serious business for African countries with Russia and our Heads of State who attended obviously felt this was a unique opportunity to do more serious business with Russia.”

“There have been very many economic and social engagements, especially in education. I think also that there have been several economic relationships that have blossomed for a while and several other business and commercial opportunities that are opening up here and there.

“But I think there is a need to formalize and to have a channel such as the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. There is a need for that to happen so that we are better able to build upon what has taken place in the years gone by. This is a very unique opportunity for us to do really good work and to strengthen relations between our countries.”

He reiterated the support of the Federal Government to ensure that the Chamber of Commerce to be inaugurated soon “works for the benefit of Nigerian businesses and Russian investors and business people.”

Speaking earlier, the leader of the delegation, Chief Okonkwo, said the visit of the Russian delegation to the country and the courtesy call on the VP was a prelude to the formal inauguration of the Nigeria-Russia Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

He said the effort was aimed at improving the already existing relations between both countries across different sectors including commerce and business, and exploring new opportunities in technology and infrastructure.

On his part, the representative of the Russian government, Mr Ozerov said the formalization of the pact between Nigeria and Russia was prompted by the need to strengthen relations between both countries especially in the areas of energy, ICT, agriculture, and infrastructure, among others.

Other members of the delegation on the courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa were the representatives of the Ministries of Industry, Trade and Investment; Foreign Affairs; the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, among other officials.


Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
27th September 2021

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

NIGERIA AT 61: THE VISION UNDEFEATED, BY VP OSINBAJO

*(FIND BELOW: FULL TEXT OF THE VICE PRESIDENT’S SPEECH)

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, has observed that even though there are current security, economic, religious, and ethnic challenges, the collective vision of a united, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria, where righteousness abounds, still abides.

This was the summation of Prof. Osinbajo's remarks at the 61st Independence Anniversary Inter-denominational Church service and the 45th anniversary service of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), which held at the National Ecumenical Centre, Abuja today.

The event tagged 'Together, Come Let Us build', was attended by several dignitaries, especially representatives of the National Assembly, Judiciary, and members of the Federal Executive Council including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha.

There were also eminent religious leaders, including the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor E.A Adeboye; CAN President, Rev. Supo Ayokunle; among others.

According to the VP, "we have since become the most educated and most entrepreneurial nation in Africa. Ten of our 36 States have larger economies than at least 15 African countries. From our ranks, we have the most accomplished men and women, in the arts, the sciences, in sports, in technology and commerce."

Prof. Osinbajo added that "our current trials cannot draw the curtains on our story, because the vision is for an appointed time and because this country is greater than the sum of its parts and the sum of its mistakes; and because the God we serve is greater than the sum of our collective hopes and imagination, our nation will surmount our current travails and emerge in victory."

Below is the full speech of the Vice President titled "Nigeria: The Vision Undefeated."

SPEECH DELIVERED BY HIS EXCELLENCY, PROF YEMI OSINBAJO, SAN, GCON, VICE PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA AT THE 61st INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY INTER-DENOMINATIONAL CHURCH SERVICE AND THE 45TH ANNIVERSARY SERVICE OF THE CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (CAN) ON THE 26TH OF SEPTEMBER, 2021

PROTOCOLS

Let me begin by delivering to the Christian Association of Nigeria, the warm felicitations of Mr. President, President Muhammadu Buhari on this occasion of the 45th anniversary of the Association. He has asked me to commend the work of CAN especially within Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, NIREC, to ensure brotherliness and peace amongst all Nigerians regardless of faith. Congratulations today on behalf of Mr. President.

I have titled my remarks today - The Vision Undefeated.

61 years ago, our founding fathers laid out a vision, that the many nations and ethnicities, North and South of the Niger, 300 languages or more, differing tribes, and religions, would by the grace of God become one Nation. That their diverse strengths and gifts would coalesce into a formidable economic and regional force. And that these united nations may become the largest aggregation of black people on earth. A beacon of hope to all peoples of African descent, long bruised by the afflictions of slavery and colonial exploitation. Nigeria will be the reaffirmation of their dignity and a tonic to their spirits.

The Lord blessed the vision and prospered the land with richness in oil, in gas, in minerals of every hue. In fruit trees, in palm trees, in crops of every kind, in savannahs and forests, arable land, seas, rivers, and the riches embedded in them.

That vision of our forebears inheres in the words of our National Motto: Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress.

Through the years, we worked that vision, through thick and thin. From subjection to colonial monarchy, to a sovereign republic, to civil rule to military rule. We fought a bitter war amongst brothers that cost millions of lives, and though we still wear the deep scars of those wounds, the Lord preserved the Republic.

We have since become the most educated and most entrepreneurial nation in Africa. 10 of our 36 States have larger economies than at least 15 African countries. From our ranks, we have the most accomplished men and women, in the arts, the sciences, sports, technology, and commerce.

But today, yet again, our path has been dogged by conflict; religious and ethnic, economic challenges, insurgencies and banditry, much darkness, many valleys, and many thorns. And so many ask, “can the vision of the nation united, the nation peaceful, the nation righteous and the nation prosperous yet abide?"

But the vision is not destroyed because of the many trials and tribulations, nor is the vision denied by the days when the fig tree does not blossom, or when there is no fruit on the vines; nor is the vision nullified when the labor of the olive fails, neither is the vision defeated because the flock is cut off from the fold, leaving no herd in the stalls.

The Lord God, our strength, He will yet make our feet like the feet of the deer, and we, who had been in the valley, He will make us walk on our high hills (Habakkuk 3:17-19)

Neither hailstones nor hellfire can destroy the vision because the Creator of the universe is the visioner, the One who gave the vision is the Lord of dreams. And indeed even after we have suffered for a while, this God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, will perfect, establish, strengthen and settle us. (1 Peter 5:10)

Our current trials cannot draw the curtains on our story, because the vision is for an appointed time. Our today is not our tomorrow because the vision is for an appointed time.

This country is greater than the sum of its parts and the sum of its mistakes, and because the God we serve is greater than the sum of our collective hopes and imagination, our nation will surmount our current travails and emerge in victory.

(Habakkuk 2:3) For indeed the vision is yet for an appointed time; though it tarries. But at the end, it will speak, and it will not lie. We will wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.

May the Lord prosper this land, and its peoples forever, Amen.

Congratulations to CAN at 45 and happy anniversary Nigeria at 61.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. God bless you all.

Released by:
Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
26th September 2021

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

FAIRNESS, EQUITY, RESPECT FOR RIGHTS OF OTHERS FUNDAMENTAL TO PEACE & SECURITY, SAYS OSINBAJO

*Receives CAN award of excellence at body’s 45th anniversary, describes body as a force for peace, unity & social justice

* CAN honors Imam Abubakar Abdullahi from Barkin Ladi, Plateau State

*VP urges leaders to be relentless advocates of freedom of worship, justice & the rule of law


In pursuit of a more united and peaceful society, Christian groups and leaders of faith in Nigeria must preach fairness and equity at all times and be relentless advocates of freedom of worship, justice & the rule of law, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo who was honoured with the Christian Association of Nigeria's Award of Excellence at a Dinner and Awards night organized to mark the 45th anniversary of the association Saturday evening in Abuja, also delivered President Muhammadu Buhari and the Federal Government’s felicitations to the foremost Christian body on the milestone.

Also in his remarks after receiving the award alongside other honourees, the VP noted that “fairness, equity and respect for the rights of others are fundamental to peace, and security” hence Christian leaders at all levels must strive to promote those virtues despite the challenges.

His words: “we must continue to let the important truth be known that Christ did not come to establish a religion, nor to condemn men but to show all men that his own righteousness not our righteousness or performance is the qualification for eternal life.

“That the gospel commands consideration for the views of others treating them as we would wish to be treated, non-violent communication, that our words must be words of grace seasoned with salt.

“We must as an organisation and as individuals remain constant and relentless advocates of freedom of worship, respect for human rights, fairness, justice and the rule of law.”

Commending the works of current and past leadership of CAN in promoting religious tolerance, Prof. Osinbajo said “CAN has not only been continually faithful to its founding vision, it has become a veritable force for peace, unity and social justice.”

According to him, “pursuant to the gospel, CAN has consistently spoken up on behalf of the “least of these” in our society.

“Importantly, the current and past leadership of CAN have acted in full realization and recognition of their roles as pivotal stakeholders alongside the Government, the private sector in nation building.

“We are proud of the role of moral compass of society and interlocutor for peace among the different faiths that CAN has played and continues to play in our nation.”

Continuing, the VP noted that “we are also proud of the enormous work that the current executive of CAN ably led by His Eminence Rev Supo Ayokunle has done.

“I am aware of your collaboration with the leadership of the Islamic and other faiths, to reconcile where there are conflicts, to pacify where there has been offence, and to upbraid and reprimand where there have been misdeeds. Well done and congratulations.”

Speaking on dousing religious and ethnic tensions in the society, the VP said “as we have seen in the past few years not just in Nigeria but all over the world, there is a growing religious and ethnic chauvinism.

“An almost intemperate, vehement and often violent dismissal of the views of people of other persuasions without adequate consideration. At the same time there is the rise of identity and cultural politics. Brethren, the answer to hate, intolerance and conflict is the gospel of Jesus Christ.”

On the call by CAN for the renovation of the National Christian Centre, Prof. Osinbajo gave a short presentation on renovation plan work for the Centre, assuring that Christian groups and individuals would be mobilized to resource and complete the project.

Responding on himself and behalf of other award recipients, Prof. Osinbajo said “I accept the award with great humility, being mindful that we are not necessarily the most deserving of Christians to be given any recognition. But that because of the special grace of God by which we have been chosen to serve in the high capacities that we serve, we are in the advantageous position that our contributions will be more easily noticed.”

The VP dedicated the award to “the many who daily, in different locations: distant and near, propagate this message of the love and reconciliation of the gospel of Jesus Christ in sometimes difficult even life-threatening situations. And to the many who have suffered deprivation, and the families of those who have lost their lives by reason of their belief.”


Presenting the Award of Excellence to the VP, CAN President, Rev Supo Ayokunle, said the honour was in recognition of Prof. Osinbajo’s outstanding performance in public service over the past years both at state and national levels.

He said: “this Award of Excellence is conferred on you today in recognition of your invaluable contributions as an ideal Christian in the Nigerian political space and governance.”

Other award recipients include former President of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo; former Imo State Governor, Sen. Rochas Okorocha; former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara; several State governors; faith leaders including past Presidents and General Secretary of CAN.

The Imam that saved the lives of over 200 Christians in Barkin Ladi, Plateau State, Abubakar Abdullahi also received a special CAN recognition. It would be recalled that the VP had received the Imam in the Presidential Villa *in May 2019* and praised him severally in public for his acts of courage, sacrifice and tolerance when he stuck out his neck to protect Christians who were being pursued to be attacked during a conflict situation on *June 23, 2018.*

Earlier on Saturday morning, the Vice President participated virtually in the 6th edition finals of the SimmonsCooper Advocacy Development (SCAD) Programme organized by SimmonsCooper Partners (SCP).

Speaking briefly during the event which was held live in Lagos, the VP congratulated the finalists of the SCAD competition as being among one of the best in Nigeria and anywhere in the world.

“Knowledge is so critical, and today, it is almost as if a completely new vista of knowledge has been opened, especially with technology and all of its various implications,” he said.

The event was attended by members of the Nigerian Bar Association, students of law and other disciplines from Nigerian universities, members of the Nigerian business community, among others.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
26th September, 2021

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

*HOW NIGERIAN STATES CAN BECOME MAJOR INDUSTRIAL HUBS, BY OSINBAJO*

_*Explains why Buhari administration prioritised infrastructure development in its economic agenda_

_*VP commissions projects in Akwa Ibom on 34th State creation anniversary_


Having itself spent about N8.9 Trillion, a record sum, on infrastructure and capital alone since its inception, the Buhari administration is encouraging State governments in the country to follow suit.

Such spending on infrastructural development would not only help position the States to become major industrial hubs, but also yield multiplier economic benefits, while at the same time attracting more investors from around the world, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this on Friday in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, where he flagged off the construction of an housing estate and the Dakkada Tower as part of activities marking the 34th Anniversary of the State’s creation.

Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Emmanuel received the Vice President at the airport, alongside other dignitaries, including the former Governors of Cross River and Benue States: Mr. Donald Duke and Senator Gabriel Suswam. Others top government officials at the events included members of the National Assembly, top State government officials, including the Akwa Ibom State Deputy Governor, Mr. Moses Ekpo, the Special Adviser to the President on Economic Affairs, Dr. Adeyemi Dipeolu, and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Niger Delta, Senator Ita Enang, among others.

Bringing with him to the State the warm felicitations of President Muhammadu Buhari to the Governor, the government and people of the State, the Vice President stated that the President “asked that I specially congratulate you, Mr. Governor, and the good people of Akwa Ibom State on the 34th Anniversary of this great State.”

The Vice President observed that the focus of the Akwa Ibom State government on infrastructure development is significantly in sync with the centerpiece of the Federal Government’s economic agenda.

“As you are aware, since the inception of our administration Mr. President has prioritised the development of infrastructure: roads, rail, power and broadband; and despite the severe economic headwinds we have experienced in the past 6 years, we have invested more than any other administration in infrastructure," the VP asserted.

He disclosed that "as of last year, we had expended over N7.6 Trillion on infrastructure alone (and about N8.9 Trillion on the entire capital expenditure)."

Speaking further, Prof. Osinbajo stated that "just last month, the Federal Executive Council approved the Lagos Calabar rail project, which will pass through Uyo as a major station, and at the end of last year, FEC also approved the full business case for the Ibom deep sea port.  These infrastructural developments are set to establish Akwa Ibom as a major industrial hub, not just in Nigeria, but in the West African sub region."

He highlighted Governor Emmanuel Udom’s industrialization agenda for the State, noting that, “when I was here in 2019, we commissioned the Kings Flour mills, Lions Plywood and Timber Factory and the power substation. Since then, you have done far more and you have even launched an airline, Ibom Air, which has become the gold standard nationally for promptness and efficient service.”

Prof. Osinbajo then commended the State government for “consistently reinventing itself to remain competitive and attractive to the investment community.”

On building infrastructure to serve the populace, the VP noted that the Buhari administration’s mass social housing programme under its Economic Sustainability Plan is one aspect of how the Federal Government is investing in infrastructure to create jobs and unlock capital for individual and corporate prosperity.

He then stated that the Ibom Luxury Estate, the new Akwa Ibom housing estate (the construction of which was flagged off today) is also strategic as investors from around the world and management of industry and businesses that will be attracted to the State will want good world class accommodation.

"They will want a safe environment to raise their families; the Ibom Luxury Estate is the answer to that need," Prof. Osinbajo noted.

Generally, he stated that "there are also, of course, the multiplier economic benefits of housing projects. Housing projects create several direct and indirect jobs, and frankly, aside from the provision of decent shelter, it really is an important job creator. So, this project will provide several jobs during and post-construction, coupled with property taxation, which will form additional streams of revenue for the State’s coffers.

“Which is why as part of our Economic Sustainability Plan, we have our mass social housing programme. This is part of our jobs for houses programme, which is run by the Family Homes Fund, where we intend to build 300,000 housing units across the country. We intend to use local materials, builders and artisans in every State.

“I am pleased to note that Akwa Ibom State has keyed into this important programme and has already made land available. And it is called the Dakkada Affordable Housing. It is surely the way to unlock capital for individual and corporate prosperity, but it requires executive and legislative collaboration to ensure its success.”

When completed, the estate will have a police station, power-sub- station, clinic and health care centre, gas plant, sewage treatment plant, civic centre, church, school and other amenities.

Prof. Osinbajo urged “the State House of Assembly to continue to work with the Executive to make all land administrative processes friendly, seamless and swift. This will revolutionize your real estate sector and unlock more investment opportunities for Akwa Ibom.”

In the same vein, while speaking at the commissioning of the Dakkada Tower, which is regarded as among the tallest buildings in Nigeria, Prof. Osinbajo recalled that Governor Udom had shared his administration’s vision to construct the tallest building in the South South and South East Region in the State.

“Today, I am filled with joy to witness the realisation of the dream as we gather to celebrate a commitment to excellence and vision as represented by the 21-storey edifice before us," the VP enthused.

“The completion of the Dakkada Tower will most definitely address the paucity of world-class office accommodation for both local, corporate and international companies, especially oil and gas companies. With this development, the big players in corporate Nigeria, and especially in the oil and gas industry, should now find it entirely auspicious to relocate their administrative headquarters to Uyo.”

The Vice President further noted that the tower is a state-of-the-art smart building, combining architectural beauty with the latest technology developed for smart and efficient work spaces.

Earlier, Governor Udom Emmanuel thanked the Vice President for honoring the invitation of the State Government, describing him as “the pride of Nigeria” and “our brother, our teacher, our pastor, our mentor.”

The Governor further said the State is investor friendly and “we are spearheading innovations that will generate revenue and create jobs and will put us on the world map.”

He said the Dakkada Estate’s water system meets the WHO standard, has a separate power turbine system, four avenues, safe city security system and many other amenities.

He added the Dakkada Tower was in response to the federal government's call that oil companies operating in the oil producing States should establish corporate offices in the state of their operations.

*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*25th September, 2021*

Osinbajo 2023�

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

SMART NIGERIAN YOUTHS CAN FILL GLOBAL GAP OF TECH TALENTS, OSINBAJO SAYS AT KADUNA SUMMIT

*VP adds: Nigeria is now the technology investment destination in Sub-Saharan Africa

*Commissions 100-KW Solar PV Mini-Grid project in rebuilt Kasuwan Magani Market in Kajuru LGA

*Gov El-Rufai applauds VP, calls him a bridge-builder, who cares deeply about people

It is the view of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, that Nigeria has now become the technology investment destination in Sub-Saharan Africa just as he asserted that the Buhari administration will continue to step up efforts in providing stable macroeconomic, conducive business environment, infrastructure and security nationwide.

He also noted that Nigeria can reap more rewards from maximizing its immense potential, especially that of its youths, in a sustainable way in a knowledge-based economy. This is especially so because there is indeed a shortage of tech talents in the world, and Nigerian youths can fill that global gap.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this on Thursday during a one-day working visit to Kaduna State, where he was the Special Guest of Honour at the Kaduna Economic & Investment Summit (KADINVEST 6.0), with the theme, “Towards a Sustainable Knowledge-based Economy." KADINVEST, now in its sixth edition, is a platform to showcase and promote Kaduna State and Nigeria as a major investment destination in Africa.

The VP also commissioned the rebuilt and modernized Kasuwan Magani Market alongside a 100-Kilowatt Solar PV Mini-Grid in the Kajuru Local Government Area of the State.


"How do we create adequate resource capacity and capability? What will it take to train and equip enough Engineers, Technologists, Scientists, Doctors, and other products of STEM curricula to drive a knowledge-based economy? Thankfully, we are not alone in this, as there are global shortages everywhere of technological talent," the VP reasoned.

According to him, “with global gaps in talent, well-planned training programmes could even see Nigeria become a hub for critical technical talent. This was proven with the success of Andela in developing and placing Software Engineering talent and can be replicated across a broader range of STEM disciplines.”

Highlighting the great strides being made by Nigerian youth in reaping the rewards of a knowledge economy through digital technology, the VP noted that “Nigeria is now the technology investment destination in Sub-Saharan Africa.”

He explained briefly, how. "Here in Nigeria, youth-run digital businesses are also making great strides. FinTech companies and other technology-enabled solutions are expanding so rapidly that the future of banking and financial services may not belong to banks or bankers as we know them today.

“Companies like Paystack which was recently acquired for $200million, Kuda Bank without a single physical branch, Prospa that is revolutionizing banking for small businesses by tailoring banking and digital solutions, and Eyowo that built the platform for TraderMoni and MarketMoni, are creating jobs and crowding in investment.

“We are also seeing the impact of disruptive technology in our critical agricultural sector. Tomato Jos’ processing facility will be commissioned tomorrow here in Kaduna with a capacity to produce tomato paste of 85 tonnes per day (another product of KADINVEST). Tomato Jos is helping build a model for integration of processing and subsistence farming that can be scaled across the country to solve our perennial issue of producing raw materials without knowledge-based value addition.

“Aside from Tomato Jos, there are many other innovative companies doing well in this space such as BabbanGona that provides training, financial credit, agricultural inputs, harvesting, and marketing support to smallholder farmers.”

In the same vein, Prof. Osinbajo added that a “sound, relevant, practical, problem-solving, education” system will further boost national development because a knowledge-based economy “is entirely dependent on intellectual capital, a workforce, and talent pool that is educated, adaptable and dynamic."

He said the STEAM curriculum being developed by the Federal Ministry of Education, which has added ‘Arts” to “Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math or STEM education is crucial towards “developing an education system that would resource and support the knowledge economy: from teacher training to acquiring technology and other equipment.”

The VP also highlighted the importance of effective coordination and collaboration between the Federal and State governments in achieving mutual goals of infrastructure and socio-economic development.

He noted that the efforts of the Kaduna State government in this regard “are clearly positioned to benefit maximally from the critical infrastructure development that the President has committed so single-mindedly to, since the inception of our administration.


"Federal Government investments in this axis, complemented by the policies and investments of the Kaduna State Government will catalyze an economic hub that will create millions of jobs and opportunities.”

According to the VP, in addition to kinetic interventions, jobs and social protection are vital for security and sustainable development.

“We are making accelerated efforts to enhance security across the country, and in this region particularly,” he said.

Speaking further on the theme of the event, the Vice President noted that that there should be more focus on developing a knowledge-based economy.

Explaining, the VP stated that, “the knowledge economy really refers to how human capital - that is education and knowledge — can become productive assets or business products to be sold for profit. This is simply the commercialization of intellectual capacity rather than natural resources or physical contributions.”

He added that “the trajectory of economic development has tended to be from agriculture and manufacturing to services, and then as countries become wealthier, the knowledge economy becomes the main source of economic rewards.

“But the sheer versatility of technology has made leapfrogging easier than ever before. Indeed, rather than go from stage to stage, the knowledge economy can enhance our performance and benefits from agriculture, manufacturing, and services,” he said.

Shortly after attending the KADINVEST 6.0 event, the Vice President was at the commissioning of the rebuilt and modernized Kasuwan Magani Market and 100 Kilowatt Solar PV Mini-Grid, Kajuru LGA in the State, where he received a rousing welcome from the locals on arrival.

At the commissioning of the market, which had been burnt down during past ethnic conflicts, the VP noted the “importance of community building, partnership, and tolerance amongst our people and a new narrative of growth, togetherness, economic progress, and development.”

Prof. Osinbajo said the unique design of the new market and reorganization of its 942 stalls would encourage interaction and partnership amongst diverse groups.

“Our joint and common interests as Nigerians outweigh our ethnic and religious differences,” he stated.

In the same vein, at the commissioning of the solar PV mini-grid, Prof. Osinbajo noted that “the Ministry of Power through the Rural Electrification Agency partnered with Kaduna State Government and Blue Camel to create a sustainable, clean source of power for the market.”

The Vice President also noted that the Economic Sustainability Plan, ESP SolarPowerNaija project, is aimed at providing 5 million homes with electricity through solar systems and mini-grids, and thus improve access to electricity for Nigerians.

"The funding mechanism for the Solar PV plant today would not have been possible without the intervention of the Buhari Administration. Despite the passage of the Electric Power Sector Reform Act in 2005, the activation of the Rural Electrification Fund (REF) only commenced in 2019, a staggering 14 years after the passing of the Act.

“In the two REF cycles executed thus far, more than N6 billion worth of projects have been executed with 42,000 connections being created, impacting an estimated 200,000 Nigerians.”

The Vice President, who was received on arrival in the State by Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and other senior State government officials, commended the State Governor for his efforts in developing the State.

In his remarks at the commissioning, Governor El-Rufai described VP Osinbajo as “a bridge-builder and a man of deep social conscience, who cares deeply about the poor and about giving them the opportunity to prosper economically.”

“Your Excellency, you are a pastor who is a friend to Imams and Emirs. You are a Professor who can speak the language of ordinary people. You are the lawyer who pursues justice, not technicalities. You care for people, you care for Nigerians and you care for unity in diversity. You care about differences in religion and ethnicity and you always promote peaceful coexistence. This community, Your Excellency, needs an apostle like you to bridge unity and peaceful coexistence,” Governor El-Rufai added.

Governor Rufai praised the Vice President, expressing appreciation that he came "to commission this project.

"This community is probably seeing a helicopter for the first time. This community is seeing the Vice President for the first time and we are seeing their excitement. We wanted you to commission this market."

According to the Governor, the Kaduna State Government wanted Prof. Osinbajo to commission the market "for several reasons.

"Your Excellency; the first is that you are a man of deep social conscience. You care deeply about poor people and you care about giving them the opportunity to prosper economically. This is one of the reasons why we felt that you are the one that should commission this market.

"The second reason Sir, Mr Vice President, is that you are a bridge-builder. You are a pastor who is a friend to Imams and Emirs. You are a Professor who can speak the language of ordinary people. You are the lawyer who pursues justice, not technicalities.

"You care for people, you care for Nigerians and you care for unity in diversity. You care about differences in religion and ethnicity and you always promote peaceful coexistence.

"No one Your Excellency is more qualified to commission this market in this community at this time than Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo."

Members of the Federal Executive Council accompanied the Vice President to Kaduna, including the Minister of Finance, Budget, and National Planning Mrs (Dr.) Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed and the Minister of Power Alhaji Abubakar Aliyu.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
23rd September 2021

34 really? WaWU

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE


VP GETS UPDATES ON JUSTICE SECTOR REFORMS, LAUDS EFFORTS IN 6 STATES


*Attorneys-General recall, commend Osinbajo’s efforts as Lagos AG


Six Attorneys-General from the South-West States visited Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa, briefing him on the progress of justice reforms in their various States, many of which they said were inspired by the successes recorded during his stint as Lagos State Attorney-General.


The Vice President who expressed delight at the visit commended the Attorneys-General for the “great work” that has been done in the States, observing the wide range of areas being covered by the Justice Sector Reforms.


The Attorneys-General in separate remarks during the courtesy call praised the VP’s efforts as Lagos State Attorney- General, attributing some of the gains recorded in their States to his innovative ideas.


They detailed different initiatives being implemented in their States centering around reforms on the administration of justice system such as alternative dispute resolution, access to justice, capacity building for judicial officers, digitization and general infrastructure upgrade.


The presentations also included social protection objectives and improving the legal framework for enhancing the business environment in the States.


The Attorneys-General and Justice Commissioners were led on the visit by the Ekiti State Attorney-General, Mr Olawale Fapohunda. Others were Lagos State Attorney-General, Mr Moyosore Onigbanjo SAN; Ondo State Attorney-General, Sir Charles Titiloye; Oyo State Attorney-General, Prof. Oyelowo Oyewo; Ogun State Attorney-General, Mr. Akingbolahan Adeniran; and his Osun State counterpart, Mr Olufemi Akande.


In his response, Prof. Osinbajo urged the States’ chief law officers to leverage their network and individual positions to effect the desired changes in the justice sector.

Commending their efforts, the VP noted that “just looking at the sheer range of the things that have been done, I really must commend you for a very great work.”


“I think there is need for us (especially at the state level), to ensure that prosecutions move quickly. It is important that we devote some time to how we can improve the pace of cases in our courts,” Prof. Osinbajo added.


Referring specifically to ongoing reform efforts in Lagos and other states, Lagos State Attorney General, Mr Onigbanjo, SAN said “Your Excellency, you laid a solid foundation upon which we are building on today. The reforms initiated by you as AG have been the basis for what we are doing and have done in Lagos.”


In the same vein, the Oyo State AG, Prof. Oyewo noted that “we are proud of your achievements and contributions to the development of the judiciary and this great country.”


On his part, the leader of the delegation and Justice Commissioner of Ekiti State, Mr Fapohunda said the reform process in the States including in Ekiti is focused on law reform, institutional reform and general reviews in areas that have direct impact on the administration of justice system.


He also praised the foundational justice reform works of Prof. Osinbajo in Lagos State.


“I align myself to what has been said, we are proud of what you did as AG in Lagos, some of the things being done today are based on your foundational works,” he concluded.


Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
22nd September, 2021

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE* 

*WHY WE REMAIN FOCUSED ON IMPROVING NIGERIA’S HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT INDICES – OSINBAJO*

_*Governor El-Rufai commends VP for leading HCD initiative of NEC*_

The Buhari administration alongside state governments will continue to ramp up its efforts towards improving the country’s Human Capital Development in Nigeria ensuring quality access to education, and health services for all Nigerians, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.
 
Prof. Osinbajo stated this on Tuesday at the Human Capital Development (HCD) Strategy Validation Event, which held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja.
 
The Deputy Chief of Staff (DCOS) to the President, Office of the Vice President, Mr. Ade Ipaye, delivered the VP’s speech at the event, which also had in attendance Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State; the Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Mannir Yakubu; the Minister of State for Education, Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba; representative of the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, state commissioners; and other senior government officials and development partners.
 
Nigeria’s HCD programme was launched in March 2018 by the National Economic Council (NEC), which is chaired by the Vice President. The NEC conceptualized the HCD programme with the realization that human capital development plays a critical role in addressing poverty and ensures participatory and sustainable economic growth. The programme is also designed to increase investments in the Nigerian people and improve the country's human development indices.
 
The goal of the National HCD Vision - which was launched at an extended meeting of NEC focused on the Human Capital Development in December 2018 - is for “Healthy, Educated and Productive Nigerians by the Year 2030”, with targets across three thematic areas; namely Health and Nutrition, Education and Labour Force Participation.
 
The Vice President commended the HCD Core Working Group (CWG), set up by NEC for its work so far “towards the development of Human Capital in Nigeria, and the diligent attention to all the details required to progress the course of Human Capital Development in the country.”
 
The CWG was established with a mandate to develop a National Human Capital Development Strategy, engage States to ensure prioritization of HCD, ascertain quick wins at the Federal and State Levels, and institute a robust countrywide Monitoring and Evaluation Framework to track progress.
 
Noting that stakeholders, including the ministers of health, education and others, have been making significant contributions towards moving HCD forward in the country, the VP added that, “we cannot do this quietly all the time, even though many of us wish we could. People have to know what we are doing; stakeholders have to be carried along, and the effects have to be so visible and to be publicized such that others would be fired up to join the efforts which we are making towards improving Human Capital Development in Nigeria. Hence, this communication strategy.”
 
He added, “we want to ensure that everybody has a shared understanding of the HCD objectives and its importance to Nigeria. Those of us here, right from the governors, ministers and state commissioners, directors and focal persons; we are the critical people to make sure that we first understand the programme, and we follow up on its implementation at all levels of government so that we can really begin to see the effects.”
 
“It is not enough to make all these grand plans and to even try to implement them, we must let the ripples spread; we must get other people to know what’s happening, to know that these are the benefits for our people in making this happen, and get them to come along with us to make it happen.
 
“Therefore, we need a strong and positive brand identity for the programme, which will inspire others to join in its objectives and implementation. Then, we need to streamline the HCD communications activities to people at the areas of most impact, those that should know should know, those that would benefit should also be aware of what entitlements that they should rightly expect.”
 
Also speaking at the event, Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai commended VP Osinbajo for leading the HCD initiative for government.
 
“If we don’t invest in education, health care, nutrition and skills, our situation would get worse. This is why I must pay compliments to His Excellency, the Vice President, for being at the lead to getting the political attention needed to address this challenge, because it’s all about political will. We’ve spoken here, there is a clear strategy, now we talk about implementation,” Governor El-Rufai noted.
 
In the same vein, the VP also thanked Governor El-Rufai for his efforts in spearheading the initiative, adding that, “it is no wonder then that he is personally here with us this morning. He is someone that believes in the course, both in theory and practice of it, and we see it in motion in Kaduna State.”
 
The representative of the VP and Governor Rufai led other dignitaries at the event to unveil the logo of the Human Capital Development campaign.
 
The objective of the HCD Strategy Validation Meeting was to validate the outcomes of the HCD Communications Strategy event, present the HCD Brand Identity and launch the HCD website.
 
Also at the event were representatives of the National Assembly - including the Chairman, House Committee on Education, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere and Hon. Tanko Sununu; Dr. Lanre Tejuosho; partners to the CWG, Centre for Communication and Social Impact (CCSI), Regional HCD Focal Persons, Media Experts, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), HCD Champions, other relevant stakeholders and government officials.
 
*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*21st September, 2021*

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*

*AFRICAN GOVTS MUST CONTINUE TO ENGAGE ITS GROWING YOUTH POPULATION THROUGH JOBS, OTHER OPPORTUNITIES, SAYS OSINBAJO*

_*At launch of UN Global Compact Africa Strategy, VP urges private sector to scale up contribution to continent's economic growth*_

_*UN to open new Global Compact Africa office in Abuja, 2022*_


In furtherance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), seeking to promote economic growth, social inclusion and environmental protection, governments in Africa must ensure that engaging the continent’s rapidly growing youth population through jobs and other opportunities remains its central priority, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this on Monday at the virtual launch of the United Nations Global Compact Africa Strategy - an initiative of the United Nations to galvanize private sector participation in the actualization of the SDGs.

He added that Africa’s private sector must also scale up its contribution to the continent’s economic and social transformation.

The UN Global Compact Strategy is regarded as the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, and its new Africa Strategy is designed to promote corporate sustainability and expand responsible business practices across the continent in support of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

According to the UN, with 1.3 billion people and a combined GDP of $3.5 trillion, Africa is the world’s fastest growing market and its companies are well positioned to play a critical role in the business sustainability movement.

“The Decade of Action for the SDGs is a historic opportunity to realize our vision for a more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous Africa,” noted the Vice President yesterday.

Prof. Osinbajo said, “making our aspirations a reality, however, will require an unprecedented degree of cooperation and collective action across all actors of society – Governments, civil society, and of course, the private sector.

“Now is the time for the African private sector to scale up its contribution to the continent’s economic and social transformation. As the African Continental Free Trade Agreement enters into force, African businesses have a historic opportunity to embrace sustainability and be part of the collective effort to build a more sustainable and inclusive future.

“At the same time, sustainable business models and investments, guided by the SDGs, will unlock an estimated US$1 trillion for responsible businesses in Africa by 2030.”

Welcoming the establishment of the new UN Global Compact Africa Hub in Abuja next year to coordinate and drive the implementation of the Strategy on the continent, the VP expressed his “full support for the new Africa Strategy, particularly for its focus on SMEs, youth and women, to ensure that no one is left behind on our journey towards achieving sustainable and inclusive development.”

He further stated that, “the new UN Global Compact Africa Strategy comes at a crucial time. With its global multi-stakeholder network and its unparalleled thought leadership and expertise, the United Nations Global Compact is uniquely positioned to play a vital role in mobilizing the African private sector for the SDGs.

“And as we tackle the issues of climate change and embark on collectively transitioning to a net-zero global economy, it is important to underscore the principle of common, but differentiated responsibilities.”

Prof. Osinbajo urged “all companies operating in Africa to seize this moment and drive ambitious SDGs actions throughout their operations and supply chains, guided by the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact on human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption.”

He then called “on all companies across Africa to engage more deeply as a strong and positive influence on society, and leverage their resources, innovation and investments to advance the Global Goals and create the Africa we want. I look forward to continuing to work closely together with the UN Global Compact in implementing this ambitious strategy.”

As the VP noted, “only by working together - across Governments, the private sector and civil society - can we pave the way for a stronger, more equitable and more inclusive world.”

Other speakers at the launch included United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Africa, Cristina Duarte; the CEO and Executive Director of the UN Global Compact, Sanda Ojiambo, among others.


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

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE


ELECTIONS IN AFRICA MUST FOLLOW DEMOCRATIC PROCESS – OSINBAJO

*Receives Sao Tome & Principe President-elect in Aso Villa

Africans must continue to make the extra effort in ensuring that elections in the continent go through the democratic process, remain transparent and fair, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

He said this today while receiving the President-elect of Sao Tome and Principe, Mr. Carlos Manuel Vila Nova who paid him a courtesy visit at the Presidential Villa.

On the 18th of July, 2021, elections were held in Sao Tome to replace President Evaristo Carvalho, whose tenure expired on 3rd September, 2021. Based on constitutional provisions, an outright winner did not emerge from the polls and a run-off led to the emergence of Mr. Vila Nova, who would be sworn in 2nd October, 2021.

According to Prof Osinbajo “there is no question at all that for those of us in Africa, we must make the extra effort to ensure that the democratic process is very transparent. It is such a pleasure to see that that was what took place in your country which led to your election.”

Speaking about areas of cooperation between both countries, the Vice President said, “we already talked about some of the areas of cooperation...your tenure might be an opportunity to bring some of those things to fruition.”   


Prof Osinbajo reassured Mr. Manuel Vila Nova of Nigeria’s support to ensure that “your tenure is as comfortable and effective as possible as partners and friends.”


In his own remarks, President-elect Vila Nova expressed appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari for supporting Sao Tome and also thanked the Vice President for his attention, stating that Nigeria is a “friendly country” and the relationship between both countries dates back many years.

In attendance at the meeting were the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Zubairu Dada, and a member of the Sao Tome and Principe's cabinet, Mr. Americo de Oliveira Ramos.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
20th September 2021

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*



*LET’S UNLOCK NIGERIA’S HOUSING DEFICIT, OSINBAJO TASKS FINANCIAL MARKET EXPERTS*


**Petroleum Producers meet & commend VP’s Niger Delta peace efforts, “no shutdown since then”*




In the quest to close the housing deficit in the country, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN has tasked financial market experts to support government’s efforts by developing an appropriate housing finance model that will significantly transform the housing sector on a large scale.



Prof. Osinbajo stated this on Monday when he received on a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa, a delegation from the FMDQ Group led by its CEO, Mr Bola Onadele. He also received a delegation from the Independent Petroleum Producers Group today.



Economic experts say the housing deficit in Nigeria is estimated between 18-22 million housing units, while the ratio of mortgage finance to GDP in the country is only 0.5% it is 31% in South Africa and 2% in Ghana and Botswana.



But after listening to a presentation by the FMDQ delegation, Prof. Osinbajo stated “I like the point you made about the National Housing Blueprint. I very strongly believe that if we are able to unlock the conundrum in the sector, we can get things working.”



According to the Vice President, “in our ESP, we have something on social housing but one of the critical issues there is how to market these houses, how we are able to provide the finance so that people can afford to buy them. These are houses that are in the order of about N2 million or N2.5 million.



“But there are still constraints on account of the fact that we just do not have anything like a feasible housing finance model, I think it is time for us to do so. It just looks like it has always escaped our capacity to find a real solution to the problem.”



Speaking on the possibility of having a model that will work, Prof. Osinbajo noted that “everyone recognizes that we are in very challenging times. But I agree with you that the sheer range and vastness of our potentials make it seem almost intuitive that we are bound to succeed.



“I have no doubt in my mind whatsoever, that given the right mix of policy initiatives, we can get these things done. And your characterization of what needs to be done like attracting capital and sustaining it is so important because ultimately, capital will go where it is best treated.



“And if we are able to attract it (because we have the market, we have everything going for us), even in the worst of times, despite the situation, you find that there is still a great deal of interest.”



Speaking earlier, Mr Bola Onadele said the visit was to inform the Vice President about the transformation taking place in the FMDQ and the need for government support in growing the financial market for the benefit of Nigerians and the economy.



While applauding the efforts of the Buhari administration in creating the environment for the transformation to occur, Mr Onadele identified areas of interest for investment in the market to include housing finance, and mobilizing capital for projects in the transportation sector, among others.



Financial Market Dealers Quotation (FMDQ) is Africa’s first vertically integrated financial market infrastructure (FMI) group, strategically positioned to provide registration, listing and quotation services, and is owned by the Central Bank and commercial banks in Nigeria.



During the other meeting with stakeholders in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry under the auspices of Independent Petroleum Producers Group (IPPG), the group commended the Vice President’s peace efforts in the Niger Delta in 2016 that ensured peace and security of investments in the region at a time when the nation suffered a recession.



Chairman of IPPG, Mr Abdulrazak Isa made the commendation today while he and top executives of the group paid a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa, Abuja.



According to him, “Your Excellency, you have been a great supporter of our association. Recall that years ago, your unprecedented intervention helped in resolving the security situation that we faced in the Niger Delta region. Since that time, we have not recorded one incident of attack on our facilities.”



Contributing, the immediate past president of the group, Mr Ademola Adeyemi-Bero added that since the intervention of the VP when he visited oil-producing communities in the 8 states of Delta, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Edo, Bayelsa, Imo, Abia and Ondo, “we have not had one shutdown of our facilities.”



While soliciting the support of the Federal Government in securing investments in the sector, Mr Isa disclosed that the crisis resolution model deployed by the VP in 2016 will be replicated by IPPG to address emerging security threats on oil and gas facilities in the southeast.



The VP then assured the group of the Buhari administration’s commitment to the security of lives and property, noting that government is open to suggestions that would lead to permanent resolution of the crisis.



Prof. Osinbajo also called for collaboration between the Federal Government and other stakeholders in the oil and gas sector in advocating for a just energy transition regarding the global net-zero emission target in 2050.





*Laolu Akande*

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

*20th September 2021*

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*

*WE OWE OUR PEOPLE DUTY TO EDUCATE & EMPOWER THEM, SAYS OSINBAJO*

**VP joins Kebbi Governor, wife to mark Mass Literacy Day*

**Says access to education ticket to enjoyment of all human, civil and socio-political rights*



Leaders at all levels should consider the education of their people, especially children and girls, as a duty, enabling them access more socio-economic opportunities and live better lives, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this in Abuja on Saturday evening at an event organized to mark the 2021 Mass Literacy Day by the MALLPAI Foundation, a non-governmental organisation founded in 2009 by Hajiya Aisha Atiku Bagudu, the wife of the Kebbi State Governor.

MALLPAI, which means in full “Mass Literacy for the Less Privileged and Almajiri Initiative” addresses concerns around illiteracy and out-of-school children, with a commitment to enhancing the quality of life by supporting and empowering initiatives that improve access to health, education and agriculture opportunities for Nigerians.

According to the Vice President, “we owe our people the duty to educate them. We owe our people a duty to lift their minds to the level where they can benefit maximally from their environment and give benefit to others.”

The VP further noted that access to "education is a ticket to the full enjoyment of all human, civil and socio-political rights.

"So, at the most basic level, the ability to read and write, not just in one’s own language, but in global languages as well is crucial. To be deprived of education is to be deprived of the means of pursuit of a dignified existence where one can fully contest or collaborate with others for the benefits that life offers."

Continuing, Prof. Osinbajo said, “every study confirms that education, especially of women, has a multiplier effect on everything around them. It usually means a longer life span for themselves and their children. It means that they are less likely to die of communicable diseases, since they are more likely to understand best practices in hygiene, sanitation and follow useful materials on health care.”

While commending Hajiya Bagudu for her commitment and hard work, the VP noted that, “I truly believe that the more lives you transform in the communities you serve, the more the mind-set will shift in those communities towards embracing formal education for all.”

Prof. Osinbajo then commended the work of the MALLPAI Foundation, since 2009, for  "doing the difficult work of improving access to education and creating skills acquisition opportunities for the poor and underprivileged communities."

He observed that getting disadvantaged out-of-school children into formal education is a massive challenge, especially where,  in some cases, "the prevailing culture is an obstacle."

But he noted that the by the work of the Foundation it had been shown, especially in the case of girls, that by being sensitive and understanding it is possible to surmount socio-cultural beliefs and practices that hinder access of girls to education.

“What is even more touching for me is that you have included those who were left behind as children, and are creating new opportunities for them as adults, through skills acquisition training and financial aid,” the VP added.

Other dignitaries at the event besides Governor Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi State and his wife, included Senators Smart Adeyemi and Olubunmi Adetunmbi; Minister of State for Education, Mr Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba; Deputy Minister of Education, Malawi, Madalitso Wirima Kambauwa; former First Lady of Nigeria, Hajiya Maryam Abacha, and the wife of the Chief of Army Staff, Hajiya Salamatu Yahaya, among others.


*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President, Media and Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*19th September, 2021*

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

OSINBAJO AT KUMUYI BOOK PRESENTATION THROWS CHALLENGE TO LEADERS: DOCUMENT YOUR EXPERIENCES TO CHANGE THE WORLD

* VP adds: Kumuyi not only preaches holiness, but lives it himself

The obligation of successful people to write their stories, to share the histories of phenomena they have become, in order to instruct, to admonish, and to inspire, would change the world to a better society, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this today in Lagos, at the presentation of the biography of the General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor W. F. Kumuyi, jointly written by Banji Ojewale, Segun Babatope, Emeka Ezeze and Tunde Opeibi

According to him, "every person, especially those who succeed in their endeavours in life, owes society three taxes. The first is income taxes - personal income tax, and if you own a company, company, or corporation tax.

"The second is a social tax, another name for that is philanthropy. The obligation of the wealthy to give back to society.

"The third tax is a civic tax; the obligation of the successful to write their stories, to share the histories of the phenomena they have become, in order to instruct, to admonish and to inspire the present and the future."

In summation of taxes citizens are obligated to pay, the VP added that there is a fourth tax. This he called "the Pentecost Tax," which he said was for successful preachers of the gospel.

"But for the successful preacher of the gospel of Jesus Christ, there is the fourth tax, this is the Pentecost Tax. The obligation of men and women since the day of Pentecost, the day described in Acts 2 when the Holy Spirit empowered the disciples to preach the gospel, to tell the story of their missionary journeys. The miracles, signs, and wonders that God has wrought on that journey, the deprivations, the fastings, and the persecutions. The victories and failures, the mountains and the valleys.”

According to the Vice President, "this is a huge responsibility. But the saints before us discharged that responsibility so we are the beneficiaries of the Acts of the Apostles, the stories of the men and women who carried the gospel first to Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria and to the ends of the earth.

“Their stories have encouraged generations of Christians since, their recorded experiences may seem to make them stars, but they are meant to instruct us in adherence to sound doctrine, to rebuke us and instruct us unto righteousness.”

Continuing, Prof. Osinbajo said the book, "Kumuyi - the Defender of the Faith," is the continuation of the baton handed down over to our generation since the day of Pentecost.

While unveiling the book, he stated that "the book, Kumuyi the Defender of the Faith, begins the work of discharging the Pentecostal tax obligation of Pastor Kumuyi. The book tells the story of the incredible work of the Holy Spirit in his life and Ministry. How by His grace, he not only preached and continues to preach holiness to a whole generation, but lived and lives it himself daily.

Giving a summary of the book, the Vice President mentioned that, “the book tells the story of how the Holy Spirit worked miracles through him (Kumuyi) and how from a Bible study group of 15 members in 1973, the ministry grew to what is now the Deeper Christian Life Ministry and at one point, with 120,000 members, making it the third-largest single congregation in the world.”

Admiring the General Superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Prof Osinbajo said, “Pastor Kumuyi has kept faith with the great commission, preaching the gospel to all persons, without compromise or embellishment, keeping his eyes and focus on Jesus, and keeping faith with the words of that Deeper Life anthem - “Jesus is our only message, Jesus all our thence shall be. We will lift up Jesus forever. Jesus only will we see.”

Commending the authors for persuading Pastor Kumuyi to accept writing the book, the Vice President noted that "this is not really a book about Pastor Kumuyi, it is about the grace and mercies of God in the life of His servant, and how by His mercies, his servant Kumuyi has in the words of the Scripture that is said to be on the backdrop of every Deeper Life pulpit the world over, is fulfilling the instruction to “earnestly contend for the faith once delivered unto the saints,” according to Jude 1:3.

While delivering his speech, the keynote speaker, Prof. Dapo Asaju, used Chief Obafemi Awolowo and writings about great bible characters such as Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and the Acts of the Apostles, as examples, urging Nigerians to write down their experiences for future beneficiaries.

In his address titled "Leadership, Integrity, and Transparency," Prof. Asaju said the exemplary lives of people like Pastor W. F. Kumuyi, would help change the life of corruption which has ravaged the country.

Also in his remarks, the Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, praised Pastor Kumuyi for his leadership, integrity, and holiness in the service to God.

In his response, Pastor Kumuyi, said he did not know about the writing of the book, but he gave his approval when the authors approached him. He also said God called him in 1964 and sent him to preach the gospel of His love to humanity.


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

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE


ECOWAS EXTRAORDINARY SUMMIT:
NIGERIA, ECOWAS INSIST ON PROMPT TRANSITION TO CIVIL RULE IN GUINEA

*Demands restoration of constitutional rule within 6 months

*VP Osinbajo calls for stiffer sanctions

*Sub-regional leaders agree to freeze financial assets of new military junta


Determined to ensure a prompt return of democratic rule to Guinea after the recent military coup, Nigeria has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to insist on a short transition programme that will usher in a new civilian government in that country.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, stated this yesterday while representing President Muhammadu Buhari at the Extraordinary Summit of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS member-states on the political situation in the Republics of Guinea and Mali, which held in Accra, Ghana.

And indeed according to the communique issued at the end of the extraordinary summit, ECOWAS leaders have resolved to freeze the financial assets of members of the military junta, place a travel ban on them, while also demanding that the junta return Guinea to constitutional rule within six months.

It would be recalled that at the last summit of ECOWAS leaders which held virtually on September 8, Nigeria, also represented by VP Osinbajo, condemned the coup de‘tat in Guinea, calling for an unconditional release of President Alpha Conde, and for stringent measures on Guinea’s military junta.

Speaking at the Accra summit, Prof. Osinbajo restated Nigeria’s position, urging for the unconditional release of President Condé and calling for more pressure to be put on the country’s military leaders to return the nation to democratic rule.

According to the Vice President, “it is also important that ECOWAS should simply insist that there should be an immediate return to civil rule."

Calling for more stringent measures to be taken by the sub-regional body, Prof. Osinbajo said “we must make sure that sanctions by ECOWAS achieve the intended objectives.

The Vice President restated the call to engage global bodies and Africa’s development partners in taking steps to prevent such unconstitutional change of government in countries on the continent.

He said: “in this connection, I think we should engage all well-meaning stakeholders including the Africa Union, European Union, United Nations, developmental partners, and financial institutions to join in taking more stringent measures by imposing travel bans and freezing of offshore financial assets of the coupists and their collaborators to ensure that they do return the country to democracy immediately.”

Again, Nigeria demanded the unconditional release of President Conde and respect for his physical integrity, with Prof. Osinbajo urging leaders in the sub-region to also insist on a civilian-led transition.

While he noted that although the military junta in Guinea had started consultation with critical stakeholders towards transitioning the country to civil rule, the Vice President reiterated Nigeria’s stance, condemning military intervention and unconstitutional change of government in the West African country.

The VP, therefore, called on the junta “to transparently restore constitutional order without delay,” and that “such a process should be led by a civilian.

“While we condemn the development in Guinea, and affirm that no matter how popular the grievance against an elected leadership may be, the forceful seizure of power is an unacceptable assault on the dignity of a free people and their right to freely elect their leaders. We nevertheless must strongly urge all ECOWAS Member States to respect the principles of democracy and the constitutions of our respective countries."

On the update of the situation in Mali, Prof. Osinbajo again commended former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan “for his continued commitment and engagement with the various stakeholders in Mali.”

He commended the efforts of stakeholders in resolving the situation in Mali and restated the call of leaders of the sub-region to the Malian transition government to strictly respect and follow the electoral time table for transition to civil rule.

“I further call for the continued support and collaboration of all major players in the country’s March towards a successful transition,” the VP stated.

Assuring that Nigeria will continue to closely monitor the situation in Guinea, the VP pledged the country’s support in ensuring that only democratic processes are adopted in changing governments in the sub-region.

At the end of the extraordinary summit, the ECOWAS communique stated that “After consideration of the Report and subsequent deliberations, the Authority decides as follows:
* to uphold the suspension of Guinea from all ECOWAS governing bodies until the restoration of constitutional order;
* to ensure the conduct of presidential and legislative elections within six (6) months in order to restore constitutional rule in the Republic of Guinea;
* to impose sanctions, in accordance with extant ECOWAS Protocols, of travel bans on the members of the CNRD (the Guinean military junta) and their family members and to freeze their financial assets.”

Highlighting Nigeria’s position further, ECOWAS also called “on the African Union, the European Union, the United Nations, and other multilateral and bilateral partners to support the implementation of these sanctions; to ensure that no member of the CNRD is allowed to contest in the presidential election.”

ECOWAS noted that it would also assist Guinea in the swift resolution of the crisis and in the preparations for the elections.

The extraordinary session was chaired by President of Ghana and Chair of the ECOWAS, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

Aside from the Vice President, the session was also attended by eight Presidents and 4 Foreign Affairs Ministers representing heads of State, former Nigerian President and ECOWAS Mediator on Mali, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan; the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Jean-Claude Kassi Brou; the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General for West Africa, among others.

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

God bless this intelligent man

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE


VP OSINBAJO TO REPRESENT NIGERIA AT ECOWAS MEETING IN ACCRA CONCERNING SITUATION IN GUINEA

President Muhammadu Buhari would be represented by his deputy, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, at the 2nd Extraordinary  Summit of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government on the political situation in the Republic of Guinea today.

Prof. Osinbajo had participated last week at the previous ECOWAS Extraordinary Summit on the political situation in Guinea and Mali. That meeting was held virtually on the 8th of September.

The Authority decided then that Guinea be immediately suspended from all ECOWAS governing bodies and statutory meetings. ECOWAS leaders had also called for the immediate and unconditional release of President Alpha Conde and other arrested persons; demanded the immediate return of Guinea to constitutional order; and decided to immediately dispatch a high-level ECOWAS mission to Guinea to assess the situation.

The physical meeting taking place today will review the situation in Guinea in light of the report of the ECOWAS high-level mission to Conakry.


The Vice President who leaves Abuja this morning would be accompanied by the Foreign Affairs Minister of State, Ambassador Zubairu Dada and is expected back in Abuja later today.

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

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

WEALTHIER COUNTRIES PLANNING DEFUNDING GAS PROJECTS, COMPELLING AFRICAN NATIONS TO MAKE HUGE SACRIFICE -OSINBAJO

“Much of the global investment in clean energy will need to go into Africa. However, instead of prioritizing efforts to redirect global capital to our nations, efforts are currently underway to limit the development of gas projects in Africa, violating the principles of equity and justice enshrined in global agreements”, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

He made this submission while speaking during a virtual conference themed: Climate, Conflict, and Demography in Africa jointly hosted by the International Crisis Group, the Royal African Society, and African Confidential publications earlier today.

In the past, Prof. Osinbajo had at different forums, raised the issue of financing of gas projects in developing countries, like Nigeria, advocating for a just transition and more effective engagements towards the target of Net-Zero Emission by 2050.

At a meeting held earlier in February with the British Member of Parliament and COP26 President-Designate, Mr. Alok Sharma, Prof. Osinbajo restated Nigeria’s support and commitment to the Climate Change agreement, but cited the planned restrictions on financing of gas projects in African countries as a potential setback.

Also, in March this year, at a meeting with a delegation from the European Union (EU) led by its Executive Vice President, Mr. Valdis Dombrovskis, the VP reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the global green energy initiative but called for a just transition to zero-emission.

Speaking at the virtual event today, Prof Osinbajo explained the necessity of gas in developing nations, “because the role of gas as a bridge fuel, to increase the share of renewable energy in the energy mix, and rapidly transition away from firewood-based cooking fuel to natural gas-based cooking, yields both environmental and health benefits.

The Vice President emphasized that despite Africa’s contribution to climate change being negligible, “we continue to be the most adversely impacted by climate change, so much so that public resources that could help modernize the energy mix has to be redirected towards adaptation spending.


“But worse, we are being compelled to make disproportionately huge sacrifices as the wealthier countries continue full speed on defunding gas projects and insisting that gas projects must be defunded as an important component of the drive towards net-zero emissions by 2030.”


Regarding the amount of investments required in clean electricity - generation and grid storage infrastructure, Prof Osinbajo stated that to get the world on track for net-zero emissions by 2050, it will cost more than US$1.6 trillion per year by 2030. “This is over four times more than what was invested in these sectors in 2020. In regions like Africa, installed electricity capacity will need to double by 2030 and increase at least five-fold by 2050,” he said.

Giving reasons for his argument against defunding gas projects, Prof Osinbajo said, “our first obligation will always be to ensure the wellbeing of our people, through access to development services including electricity, healthcare, education, safe jobs, and a safe environment, including access to clean cooking fuels.

“We must prioritize solutions that align with development and climate agendas, this is absolutely important. The global climate conversation can only be equitable and inclusive by putting all people in all geographies at the heart of the endeavor to save the planet.”

In the same vein, the VP mentioned the need to “recognize and plan for growing energy demand; its increase will be critical for driving growth, jobs and economy-wide progress, and delivering healthcare and education services. Efforts are already underway in my country, Nigeria, and in several countries across the continent to transition to large shares of clean energy sources to do so.”

In attendance at the virtual event were the Minister of Environment for Ghana, Dr. Kwaku Afriyie, who represented the President of Ghana; Chairperson of the Royal African Society, Ms. Arunma Oteh; Patrick Smith, Publisher of African Confidential, and the event was moderated by Bola Mosuro.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
14th September 2021

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

OSINBAJO TO BANKERS:
TAKE ON TRANSFORMATIVE PROJECTS

*VP lists housing, renewable energy financing as priority for banking & finance sector

*Adds: Job creation, poverty reduction should be target


The banking and finance sector has over the years played significant roles in the economy, but emerging challenges require that the sector takes on more transformative projects such as housing and renewable energy, among others, in ways that significantly impact job creation and poverty reduction, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this today in Abuja at the opening session of the 14th Annual Banking and Finance Conference themed “Economic Recovery, Inclusion, and Transformation, the role of Banking and Finance”. President Muhammadu Buhari had earlier declared the conference opened and his Rwandan counterpart, Paul Kagame also delivered the keynote address.

In their separate remarks, Presidents Buhari and Kagame commended leaders in Nigeria’s banking and finance sector for their contributions to the development of Africa’s economy. President Buhari specifically urged the sector to support his administration’s efforts in job creation and poverty alleviation, listing some of government’s achievements in the areas.

According to the Vice President, “it is time for the sector to take on some of the transformative big-ticket items that would fundamentally transform our economy. Such matters include consumer finance but housing finance in particular.”

He noted that a focus on how to finance housing is critical.

Referencing an African Development Bank (AfDB) survey, Prof. Osinbajo said “the housing sector may support poverty reduction and inclusive growth in two general ways. First, housing construction contributes to economic output, creates employment, and generates a demand for materials and related services. Second, improved housing raises the standard of living of occupants.

“That study (AfDB survey) says for example that the benefits of housing for individuals accrue in large part through better health and sanitation, and of course this improves the overall human capacity of our citizens who are able to own these houses. Housing also generates large multiplier effects in terms of employment and output. Employment is created for both skilled and poorer, unskilled workers.

“The evidence also suggests that there is a symbiotic relationship between housing finance and financial sector development. Housing finance helps to develop the financial sector itself and helps to contribute to economic growth. So, these were the justifications that we also advanced for our mass housing initiative in the Economic Sustainability Plan.”

Challenging the banking sector on participating in the Federal Government’s Mass Housing programme, the VP noted that “the finance sector appears shy or simply has not found the right housing finance model that will work.”

On renewable energy and mitigating the impact of climate change, Prof. Osinbajo said “one of the chief considerations especially for developing countries is how to pay for the massive transition to renewable energy. How do we pay for moving from where we are especially fossil fuel-based power sources to renewable energy? This is a significant challenge but it is also an enormous opportunity.”

Citing the example of the Federal Government’s solar power initiative, Prof. Osinbajo decried the low interest shown by Commercial Banks to catalyze installations or manufacturing for Solar Power Naija programme.

He explained that “the challenge of under-electrification of the rural and poor and it's associated impacts on our economic well-being and security cannot be overstated. The climate change challenge is a massive one in more ways than we can imagine.

“I would like to encourage the Bankers Committee to refocus on supporting the Solar Power Naija to ensure that in the next few months we can catalyze access to the N140 billion and create 5 million connections that can multiply to eliminating our electricity access deficit and creating jobs.”

While commending the sector for its efforts in improving service delivery over the years, the VP noted that “going forward, the banking and finance sector must take advantage of the new opportunities that are opening up and also adapt to domestic and international developments.

“The rapid changes in the technology sector mean that financial technology companies and payment service companies are now an inescapable part of the banking and financial landscape.”

Prof. Osinbajo also suggested that financial inclusion being critical to the objectives of recovery, inclusion and transformation, should be prioritized “especially in this COVID era, for the poor and more vulnerable sections of society so that they can keep their micro-businesses alive and handle risks and uncertainty.”

Other dignitaries who spoke at the event include Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State; Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, and President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers (CIBN), Mr. Bayo Olugbemi, among other bank executives across the country with several participants also joining virtually.


Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
14th September 2021

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo SAN attends the 14th Annual Banking and Finance Conference themed; Economic Recovery, Inclusion & Transformation: The Role of Banking & Finance at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja. 14th Sept, 2021.