₦airaland Forum

It's high time we love ourselves biko, kilode now

May departed souls rest in perfect peace

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE 

*THE CLOUDS WILL GIVE WAY TO A NEW NIGERIA, SAYS OSINBAJO AT NATIONAL PRAYER BREAKFAST*
 

_*VP joins Gen. Gowon, CAN President, others in Abuja to speak life to the nation_
 
A new Nigeria is in the making, but it is currently covered by the clouds and travails which will certainly give way to a glorious and bright new morn of a new nation, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.
 
He spoke this morning at the National Prayer Breakfast, which held at the NAF Conference Centre, Kado, Abuja.
 
According to Prof. Osinbajo, “the new nation is birthing already. It is covered by a cloud, but the cloud will pass, and God Almighty will take all of the glory for the birthing of a new nation.”
 
While he noted that the theme of the Prayer breakfast, the "Birth of a New Nation", was significant, especially in these times, the Vice President emphasized the need for collective prayers, faith, hope and action, adding that Nigeria would prevail over the challenges of today.
 
He said today's National Prayer Breakfast "comes at a time of great travail and tribulation for the nation: in the throes of a pandemic for well over a year, leading to a severe economic downturn, loss of jobs and livelihoods; and as we climbed out of the recession, we have been faced with an unprecedented scale of insecurity, in different zones of the nation.
 
“But we know that every time that a nation where the lives of the children of God is challenged, it is God’s call to His people to take action. It is an opportunity for God to demonstrate that He is God over the nations, that He is the creator of the heavens and the earth, that He knows the beginning from the end. But God also wants us to know that He has ordained us to speak to life.”
 
Referencing the Holy Book, Prof. Osinbajo recalled the work and prophetic actions of men and women of faith who played vital roles in nation-building during biblical times.
 
“So, the Scripture has consistently shown us that children of God are central to the birth of a new nation, the rebirth of nations. They must desire the change, cry to God, be ready to make the sacrifice of repentance,” he said.
 
Describing the people of God as the salt of the earth, the Vice President said, “As we are the salt, we are also the light, the light ends the darkness; it marks the end of the night of weeping and marks the glorious sunlight of the morning of joy.  So, the pouring of the salt into the source of the water, the source of the problem, is the prophetic act we perform today,
 
He referenced 2 Kings 2:19-22, and said, “we, the salt, are also poured today by prayer and prophecy, to the source of our nation’s problems.  And as we pray and prophesy, a new nation will be birthed; one where, like the city to which Elisha went, the land was healed, the people prospered and peace and joy prevailed.”
 
Prof. Osinbajo thanked the organisers, as well as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (retd.) whom he described as the “father of the Nigerian Prays movement.”
 
In the same vein, the Vice President commended Gen. Gowon “for his commitment and dedication to this nation from his youth, when he was Head of State, when he led the fight to keep Nigeria one, to his later years as an elder statesman where his well-seasoned words uttered in Godly wisdom have counselled our nation’s leaders for decades.” 
 
The Vice President joined Gen. Gowon; CAN President, Dr. Samson Ayokunle, among other dignitaries who attended the meeting.
 
*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*21st May, 2021*

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

NEC RECEIVES SOVEREIGN INVESTMENT REPORTS SHOWING SIGNIFICANT INCOME, NET ASSET GROWTH

Welcomes Digital Switch Over starting in Lagos, Kano & Rivers States
 
The Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) has recorded a 343% growth in Total Comprehensive Income totaling N160.06 billion in 2020 compared to N36.15 billion in the previous year  and 33% growth in Net Assets rising up to N772.75 billion from the previous N579.54 billion.

This was one of the major highlights in the NSIA report presented at today’s National Economic Council (NEC) chaired by the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Today's meeting of NEC which comprises the 36 State Governors, the Federal Capital Territory Minister and Central Bank Governor besides  other Federal Government officials, had a session devoted to holding the AGM of the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority, NSIA where reports and financial statements including the audit were presented.

In particular, the Chief Executive of the Authority, Mr. Uche Orji submitted that NSIA achieved core income of N109 billion compared to N33.07 billion in 2019 excluding forex gains of N51 billion in 2020 and N1.29 billion in 2019.

The NSIA presentation noted that despite the challenges of Covid-19, it had a favourable year owing to strong performance from its investments in international capital markets, improved contribution from associates as well as exchange rate gains from foreign currency positions.

In response to Covid-19, NSIA partnered with Global Citizen, a not-for profit group to form the Nigeria Solidarity Support Fund (NSSF), acquired and distributed oxygen concentrators to 21 teaching hospitals as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility; in addition to staffing support to the Presidential Taskforce on Covid-19 towards combatting the pandemic.

Other major milestones reached by the NSIA were recorded across domestic infrastructure projects specifically in roads, agriculture, healthcare, technology, gas industrialization.

NEC also received a presentation on the Digital Switch Over (DSO) by the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed. He stated that it was the International Telecommunications Union, ITU that decided on member states switching off analogue television transmission to ‘go digital’.

The DSO will be taking off first in Lagos, Kano and Rivers States, he stated.

According to him, the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission and the DSO Ministerial Task Force are tasked with ensuring that Nigeria ‘digitizes’ and developing a public information and awareness campaign to inform citizens about DSO/FreeTV.

The Minister disclosed that the switch-over has a revenue generation—potential of N20 billion annually; and that the funds will enable to NBC support and upgrade DSO initiative and fund local producers.
 
Council also received an update on COVID-19 pandemic by the Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu.

According to the DG, in the last two months there has been reduction in number of cases globally, even India has also experienced reduction in infection in the last five days.

In Nigeria, total number of cases as at yesterday, May 19, 2021 is 165,809, while number of cases tested is 2,002,653, and active Cases 7,323. It was also disclosed that discharged Cases is now 156,419, while there has been2,067 deaths.

According to the NCDC boss,  the “transmission rate in the country  is low, adding that attention is now on tracking the new B1.167 variant from India.  He said there are only three such cases identified in Nigeria so far.

He said emphasis should remain on the protocols to stop the spread of the virus, while the health authorities and agencies will keep an eye on tracking the Indian variant. Governments and leaders in the society are also urged to discourage pandemic fatigue and stick to the Covid-19 safety protocols.

Earlier the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Mr. Clem Agba gave the Council the monthly update on the under-listed accounts as follows:

1.   EXCESS CRUDE ACCOUNT (ECA)

Balance as at 18th May 2021 stands at

$72,413,574.70

2.   STABLIZATION ACCOUNT

Balance as at 18th May, 2021 stands at

N 24,741,213,941.88

3.  DEVELOPMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES ACCOUNT

Balance as at 20th May, 2021 stands at

N23,650,579,140.23

On the Budget Support Facility, State Governors restated their request to defer the repayment of the loans, which was to have started this month. Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi who is also the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum reported interactions with the Finance Minister and the Central Bank Governor regarding the matter.

The Central Bank Governor also emphasized the importance of the timely repayment of the loans especially those owed to commercial banks indicating the challenges inherent in a further delay in payment including audit concerns. He said the repayment of the commercial loans should resume this month.  

But the Vice President then stated that he will very soon be holding a meeting with representatives of the State Governors, the Finance Minister and the Central Bank Governor to find a solution to the matter.



Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity
Office of the Vice President
May 20, 2021

I love this man, he's really trying his best but haters will say otherwise.

Oh I see! A lot of Nigerians want to see him on that seat he will definitely do better. I'm crossing my fingers oooo

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

2023 PERMUTATIONS A DISTRACTION, OSINBAJO HAS NOT DECLARED INTEREST IN PRESIDENTIAL RACE

The attention of the Office of the Vice President has been drawn to a website:supportosinbajo.ng that is calling on Nigerians to join a volunteer group mobilizing support for Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, ahead of the 2023 presidential election.

Details of this website and the solicitation of the group are currently trending on WhatsApp with a suggestion that Prof. Osinbajo has "quietly" declared interest in the 2023 election.

The Office of the Vice President is not in any way connected to this website or the group behind it and considers such an enterprise an unnecessary distraction. Prof. Osinbajo has not declared any interest whatsoever in the 2023 election, but he is rather focused on working in his capacity as Vice President in the current administration to address all the compelling issues in the country and concerns of Nigerians, including finding effective and lasting solutions to the security challenges.

Therefore, we ask that people desist from such unhelpful permutations while we all deal together with the challenges confronting us as Nigerians, and resolve them for the benefit of our people, peace and prosperity in the land.

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

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

ESP UPDATE:
OVER 2,000 HECTARES READY IN 24 STATES FOR FG’S SOCIAL HOUSING SCHEME AS 17 STATES SHOW INTEREST IN SOLAR POWER NAIJA PROGRAMME

*VP: We'll continue creating more jobs, improving access to power & affordable housing for Nigerians

*After Jigawa, Akwa Ibom, Ekiti, Kano to pilot next phase of solar power initiative

*Titled documents secured for building of first set of 65,000 homes across Nigeria, very discounted cement prices set


Over two thousand hectares of land with titled documents have been given by 24 States for the Buhari administration’s Social Housing programme, while 17 States have indicated interest to participate in the Solar Power programme, both important elements of the ongoing Economic Sustainability Plan.

Equally agreement has now been reached with at least one major cement manufacturer in the country to sell at significantly discounted prices as low as N2600 per bag of cement for the social housing projects. This was after a meeting the Vice President held with three major cement manufacturers in the country namely Dangote Cement, Bua Cement and Lafarge Cement manufacturers.

These were some of the highlights emerging from a review meeting on the Economic Sustainability Plan implementation presided over by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, at the Presidential Villa over the weekend.

Commenting on the implementation of components of the Economic Sustainability Plan (ESP), Prof Osinbajo said the Buhari administration will continue to focus on creating more jobs, while improving access to power and affordable housing for majority of Nigerians.

Highlighting the progress so far, the Vice President assured that the Federal Government will ramp up efforts to so more Nigerians have access to electricity and affordable housing.

According to the presentation made by the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Alhaji Ahmad Salihijo, the Solar Power Naija team has had engagements with the 6 states who have identified private sector developers. The team has also selected Akwa Ibom, Ekiti and Kano as pilot states for the state-guarantee transaction model for the solar power programme.

He explained that REA is currently tracking transactions worth N55 billion potentially contributing the first two million connections in Nigeria and providing thousands of jobs

For instance, the programme is currently tracking four transactions in the commercial bank upstream channel contributing 3,500 jobs and 100,000 connections.

The MD added that 9 participants have submitted applications for over N4 billion of the N20 billion allocated with three companies close to receiving disbursements.

According to the MD, “Bleu Camel Energy with a loan amount of N3 billion is targeting to create 600 jobs; Sunking, another investor with a loan amount of N3 billion will create 1,500 jobs; Auxno Solar with N300 million loan amount targets 100 jobs while Emerald Industrial Co. is seeking N3 billion funding to manufacture 100,000 Solar Home Systems and smart meters.

On the other hand but in the same vein, the Managing Director/CEO of the Family Homes Fund Limited (FHFL) - the implementing agency for the Social Housing scheme, Mr. Femi Adewole, stated that 17,584 units across 16 locations are now on the pipeline.

“We are having a successful push in assembling land to feed the housing construction. So far about 2156.4ha have been assembled ready for development. This has the capacity to accommodate about 65,000 homes,” he said.

Adewole further said that under the ESP Social Housing programme, Nigerians would be given at least a 15-year period with a monthly payment at six per cent interest rate to pay for each housing units.

While the rates are significantly low, the MD noted that this period can also be extended through refinancing.

“This will help to improve access to housing for low income people in the informal sector who-(otherwise) will not have an opportunity to access a mortgage,” he stated.

He further said that in addition to the typical 2, 3 and 4 bedroom housing units, the FHFL was considering a “Students and Young People’s Housing – to address the needs of young people.”

An  agreement with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has now been finalized and signed by Family Homes Funds, he disclosed while drawdown is subject to a guarantee from the Ministry of Finance.

It would be recalled that the CBN had committed to a N200B facility with a guarantee by the FG via the Finance Ministry for the Social Housing scheme

Speaking further, the FHFL MD noted the agency has struck partnerships with Dangote Cement for the provision of cement at subsidized rates to construct the ESP homes, adding that “we expect to reach a similar agreement with the other two majors shortly.”

He added that the FHFL has signed an MoU with the ESP Solar Power project including 3 suppliers to provide low-cost solar panels to the homes.

Adewole stated that the delivery of the units would be through SME Delivery Partners – who are being encouraged to register on the Housing Portal.

He said, “So far about 7,333 SME groups and individuals are registered on the online portal. Up to 2,000 of these will be involved in current projects.

“We will be drawing from ongoing experience on our project in Yola where the construction of 3,600 homes are ongoing and a partnership between FHFL and the Ministry of Housing is implementing a large-scale youth employment scheme currently employing 1350 young people. The young people are manufacturing interlocking tiles, paving, screeding etc.

For the ESP Social Housing Adewole said “about 228 Manufacturers of Building Components have expressed interest in supplying inputs including doors, glazing, paint, roofing sheet etc. We are now engaging with these to secure bulk supply of key materials which in turn will provide opportunity to grow their production capacity.”

Already sites for early start projects have been identified in all the 6 geo-political zones in addition to the FCT. The sites include those in Ekiti and Ogun in the Southwest, Enugu, and Abia in the Southeast, Delta, and Edo in the South-south, Yobe, and Bauchi in the Northeast, Kaduna and Katsina in the Northwest and Nasarawa and Plateau in the North-central. Sites have also been identified in Abuja including at Dei Dei where the VP earlier visited to see the sample designs of the Social Housing homes.

Speaking specifically on the mass housing scheme, Prof. Osinbajo emphasized that the focus must be on providing affordable housing for the masses.

According to him, “if the Federal Government is going to intervene in housing, most of it should be social housing. Everybody else, including the private sector can build N9.6 million worth houses, but nobody else will do social housing.

“All over the world, when government intervenes, it is social housing...those who cannot afford housing are the ones we must focus attention on.

“I think that we have enough problems with finding homes for the vast majority of Nigerians who cannot find a home. The people who are poorest who have no houses, are the people we should target because that is what government should do. Let’s focus on this social housing.”

The Vice President added that the Federal Government will continue to collaborate with States to ensure more Nigerians benefit from the Social Housing scheme.

Under the Social Housing Programme, the Federal Government plans to support 1.5 million Nigerians to acquire low-cost houses through a mortgage options and also Rent to Own option. The scheme is expected to also generate 1.8 million jobs and deliver houses to about 1.5 million Nigerian families. The houses are to be priced around and about N2m and N4m each putting it within the reach of the low income earners, depending on the number of rooms. There are one, two and three bedrooms options.


Laolu Akande

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

9th May 2021

United we stand

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*
 
*NEC STRONGLY AFFIRMS NIGERIA’S UNITY, DIRECTS STATE-BY-STATE CONSULTATIONS*
 
*_Unanimously debunks claim Naira was printed to support March allocation_

Welcoming recommendations of a national townhall meeting on Enhanced Security and National Unity recently held in Kaduna, the National Economic Council (NEC) rose from its monthly meeting today strongly affirming the unity of the country, emphasizing that staying as one country remains the best option for Nigeria.
 
The Council’s position was among resolutions adopted at the 4th 2021 meeting of NEC, chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, which also had in attendance State Governors, FCT Minister and the Central Bank Governor. Also at today’s meeting were the Finance, Transportation, Information, Aviation and Water Resources Ministers, and the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning.
 
While emphasizing the need to address the problems of agitation in parts of the country, Council noted that “these agitations are common with countries with huge and diverse populations like ours and it is important not to allow the minority to hijack the mainstream of opinion.”

The Council also directed States “to hold consultations and dialogues on the issues and report back by the next meeting of Council so that a firm position would be taken on the recommendations of the Townhall many of which it already welcomed.”
 
NEC urged all States (even where there are no agitations) to hold wider consultations to have diverse opinions on the burning issues, taking into consideration local peculiarities and report back to NEC the outcome of the consultations.
 
The Council resolved that after the planned State-wide consultations a national consensus would be reached on the recommendations of the national town hall meeting held in Kaduna which included the adoption of State Police among other matters.
 
Taking a position on the alleged printing of N60 billion after receiving presentations from the Minister of Finance and the Central Bank Governor, the National Economic Council (NEC) stated that the claim as reported in the press is outrightly false, affirming that no money was printed to shore up allocation for the month of March.

The Governors, having critically reviewed the matter, unanimously expressed satisfaction with clarifications made by the NGF represented by its Chairman, Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, Finance Minister, Hajiya Zainab Ahmed and the Central Bank Governor, Mr Godwin Emefiele.  While the Finance Minister categorically debunked that Naira was printed to back up allocation last month, the CBN Governor fully supported the position of the minister, and the Chairman of NGF also noted that he knew no such thing happened at all.
 
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS 115TH NEC MEETING:
 
BUDGET AND NATIONAL PLANNING MINISTER TO BRIEF ON FINANCE UPDATES:
 
The Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning gave update to Council on the under listed accounts as follows:
 
1.     EXCESS CRUDE ACCOUNT (ECA)
 
Balance as at 22nd April 2021 stood at $72, 413,008.60
 
 2.    STABILIZATION ACCOUNT
 
Balance as at 22nd April, 2021 was put at N23,299,008,799.06
 
3.    NATURAL RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACCOUNT
 
Balance as at 22nd April, 2021 was N77, 742,012,342.87
 
BUDGET SUPPORT
On the budget support facility, Finance Minister observed that the deductions for repayment by States are meant to resume in May. The Governors however requested for an extension considering the economic challenges in the States.
 
The Central Bank Governor explained the technical challenges involved should there be a further postponement of the deductions. The Vice President then directed that a meeting be held soon after today’s NEC where the issue would be properly considered and a decision reached.
 
The VP will chair the meeting and the Governors would be represented by Governor Kayode Fayemi, while the Finance Minister and the Central Bank Governor both of whom attended the meeting today will also participate.
 
Council also received a presentation on the current status of water, sanitation, and hygiene services level across the country as revealed by the 2019 WASH National Outcome Routine Mapping (WASH-NORM II) survey jointly carried out by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and National Bureau of Statistics in collaboration with UNICEF.
 
Under the 2019 survey, six modules were adopted: (1) Households, comprising Water Quality assessments and household WASH; (2) Water Facilities, (3) WASH in Educational Facilities, (4) WASH in Health facilities and (5) WASH in Public places (markets and motor parks), and (6) Water Utilities and Consumer Satisfaction Survey.
 
Key findings from 2019 WASH-NORM survey:
 

The percentage of the population with access to basic water supply services has steadily increased from 67% in 2015to 68% in 2018, and 70% in 2019. In terms of population figures, these changes equate to about 9 million more people gaining access to basic water supply services between 2018 and 2019. However, only14% of the population has access to safely managed drinking water supply services, which means that up to 171 million Nigerians are still off the SDG target 6.1.
 

On access to sanitation, indicators across the country show a slight improvement as 44% of the population were found to have access to basic sanitation services in 2019 compared to 42% in 2018. Only 17% of the population use improved sanitation facilities that have proper handwashing facilities with soap.

The number of people practicing open defecation marginally changed from 24% in 2018 to 23% in 2019 meaning that about 46 million people are still defecating in the open.
 

About 27% of markets and motor parks have access to basic water supply services. Accessibility of persons living with disabilities is very low at 17%. About a quarter of markets and motor parks (24%) have access to basic sanitation services and slightly more than half (53%) of markets and motor parks do not have toilets for public use.

28 out of 36 States plus FCT have urban water utilities out of which only 16 are functional and producing water for the people.  The functional 16 State Water Agencies (SWA) have a total number of 1,171 water works which 41% is operational.


Council, therefore, welcomed the key findings from the 2019 WASH-NORM survey and noted that the Ministry has commenced the third round of WASH-NORM Survey in 2021 and is hereby urging all the States and FCT to support the process.

PRESENTATION ON NATIONAL AVIATION INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT PLAN, PROSPECTS OF LEVERAGING PRIVATE SECTOR CAPACITY ON INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT BY SENATOR HADI SIRIKA, MINISTER OF AVIATION
 
The Minister stated that the Federal Ministry of Aviation is saddled with the overall responsibility for the formulation and management of aviation policies and was given the following mandates:
 
1.     Conclude the Concession of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (Lagos), Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (Abuja), Aminu Kano International Airport (Kano) and Port-Harcourt International Airport (Port-Harcourt).
 
2.     Implement a plan for effective maintenance and optimal use of Airport facilities across the Country.
 
3.     Ensure and facilitate the Establishment of a National Carrier.
 
4.     Actively collaborate with the Private sector to create a large number of well-paying jobs for Nigerian youths.
 
5.     Implement a strategy towards the realization of Mr. President’s June 12 promise to take 100 Million Nigerians out of poverty in the next ten years
 
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
 
1.     Concession of four International Airports - Lagos, Abuja, PH and Kano
 
2.     Implement a plan for effective maintenance and optimal use of all Airport facilities across the Country
 
3.     Ensure and facilitate the establishment of a National Carrier

4.     Actively collaborate with the Private sector to create a large number of well-paying jobs for Nigerian youths
 
5.     Implement a strategy towards the realization of Mr. President’s June 12 promise to take 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in the next ten years
 
Council Resolution:

The Minister should make available copies of the presentations to states so that Council will have a fuller understanding.

PRESENTATION ON THE PROGRESS REPORT OF RAIL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA BY RT. HON. CHIBUIKE ROTIMI AMAECHI, HONORABLE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT
 
Council was informed on how Rail Development was stalled in the 60s until 1986, when the Federal Government of Nigeria commenced the construction of 326 km standard gauge (1,435m) rail lines phase 1 from Itakpe – Ajaokuta – Warri.
 
Furthermore, rail infrastructure development halted until the present Administration came on-board and brought to reality the railway modernization plan of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) by commencing the implementation of the 1,367 km Lagos – Kano railway lines. The outcome of the present government intervention includes:

Completed and made operational the 186 km Abuja – Kaduna Standard gauge rail lines;

Commencement of 185.5 km Lagos-Ibadan new Double standard gauge rail lines in 2016 and is almost completed;

Completed and made operational the 302 km Itakpe – Ajaokuta – Warri standard gauge rail lines; and

Connected the Apapa Ports by Rail, while that of Warri Port has been concessioned.


THE 25 – YEAR RAILWAY STRATEGIC VISION 

The Federal Government in its determination to revive and modernize the Railway System in line with the 25-year Strategic Vision, adopted a Systematic dual approach.
 

This entails the rehabilitation of the entire existing narrow gauge lines simultaneously with the development of standard gauge lines.
 

The Ministry/NRC is rigorously following the strategic vision in developing its short and medium-term plans

KEY CHALLENGES
 
Finance
 

Inadequate Funding

 
Operational challenges 

Insufficient locomotives, coaches and wagons, leading to congestion

Obsolete Machineries and workshop equipment

Access to only two seaports and none to airports

Lack of capacity to recover encroached premises and rental debts from government organisations

 
Security

Porosity of rail corridors and level crossings

Vulnerability of outdoor Signalling & Telecommunication installations to vandalism

Legal and Legislative 

The Railway Act of 1955 does not encourage Public Private Partnership.

 
Council welcomed the presentation and looked forward to further collaboration with the FG on this matter.
 

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

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*

*THOUGH CHALLENGES PERSIST, PROMISE OF GOD FOR A GREAT NIGERIA WILL BE FULFILLED, SAYS OSINBAJO*
 
_*VP: I see the greatness of Nigeria like my own face_

In a rousing message seeking to rally Nigerians and people of faith to see beyond the vicissitudes of the season in the country, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, says he knows Nigeria will become an oasis of peace, security and prosperity in Africa and beyond.
 
Though Nigeria is going through storms and adversity, the country will overcome its challenges and realize its aspirations, because of the promises of God regarding the outstanding greatness ahead of the country.
 
This was the message the Vice President delivered today at the ongoing 108th annual convention of the Nigerian Baptist Convention themed "Moving Forward: Finishing the Race with Joy" holding at the church’s conference Centre along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
 
According to Prof. Osinbajo, "there is a promise of God for this nation, that this nation will prosper, that this nation will be the epicentre of the astounding economic and scientific developments of the 21st Century, that we will create here in Nigeria an oasis of peace, security and prosperity such as has never been seen before on this continent and beyond."
 
"This is the promise of God. But today the clouds are overcast, the promise seems impossible, as it was with the children of Israel after leaving Egypt on the way to the promised land..."
 
Continuing the VP declared that “the journey to the promise of God for Nigeria is going through storms and adversity, but the end will be better than the beginning; weeping may endure for the night but joy comes in the morning.
 
“I am completely convinced that nobody, no group, no ideology, can defeat the promise of God for the greatness of Nigeria. I see it clearly; I know it like my own face.”
 
Urging Nigerians not to be dissuaded by the present challenges, Prof. Osinbajo said, “I urge you men and women of God not to allow the adversities of the moment to shape your utterances or perception.”
 
“We must not sound like the children of Israel fearful before Goliath, petrified and complaining at the Red Sea as Pharaoh and his hostile hosts approached.
 
“We are the light of this world, we are the voice of God in a confused and discouraged world, we must speak the things that God has promised as though they are because they will come to pass.
 
“The clouds cannot deny the existence of the sun, they may cover it for a while, but they must give way to the glorious brightness of sunshine,” the Vice President assured.
 
While commending the outgoing National President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention who is also the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Supo Ayokunle, Prof. Osinbajo said, “from his humble days leading the small flock in Ibadan to the headship of the Baptist Convention, superintending over the affairs of 13,654 churches and 8,000,637 members, and then suddenly being propelled to the rocky and difficult intersection between politics and religion as the 6th President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, the umbrella body of Nigeria’s millions of Christians, the man we celebrate today has seen it all; adversity, tribulation, enemies from within and without.”
 
He added: “the days of criticisms, fair and unfair, of battles spiritual and physical, of long nights of travailing in the place of prayer. And the many times when he could have said I have had enough."
 
The Vice President then observed that the life and times of the CAN President "must be a parable to our Nation, it’s leaders and people, that there is a promise of God for this nation."
 
 
*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*25th April, 2021*

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

FG, AfDB COLLABORATING ON SPECIAL-AGRO PROCESSING ZONES ACROSS THE COUNTRY

*7 States, FCT set for phase 1 rollout
*Osinbajo commends progress so far

As part of the Buhari administration’s efforts to transform agricultural productivity in the country, the Federal Government in partnership with the African Development Bank (AfDB) and other stakeholders is set to roll out a Special-Agro Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme aimed at concentrating agro-processing activities in demarcated areas to boost productivity and integrate production, processing and marketing of selected commodities.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, commended the progress in the plan earlier today at a meeting at the Presidential Villa where he was briefed about the status of the collaboration. The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Alhaji Mohammed Nanono and his counterpart in the Industry, Trade and Investment Ministry, Otunba Niyi Adebayo were also at the meeting.

Under the programme, the Nigerian government, in collaboration with the AfDB and working with other stakeholders such as the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Bank of Industry, will demarcate areas across the 36 States and the FCT where the agro-processing centres will be established. About 140 of such centers are being envisaged across the country.

The agro-processing centres will be provided with basic infrastructure such as water, electricity and roads as well as facilities for skills training. Small-holder farmers in the catchment areas will be linked to markets across the value chain.

To set off the plan in the opening phase, 7 States representing most of the geo-political zones in the country have been selected in addition to the Federal Capital Territory. The States are Ogun, Oyo, Imo, Cross River, Kano, Kaduna, Kwara. All the other States in the country would be added later as the scheme progresses.

The programme aligns with the Economic Sustainability Plan and the Next Level programme of the Buhari administration regarding agriculture.

Briefing Prof. Osinbajo on the progress made so far in the implementation of the programme, AfDB’s Acting Vice President, Agriculture, Human and Social Development, Ms Toda Atsuko said the bank in collaboration with other stakeholders was ready to start the first phase of the Special-Agro Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme, having completed a joint appraisal mission across the 36 States with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

Atsuko who commended the Buhari administration for its efforts said the success of the project is hinged on the political will of the Buhari administration, adding that the plan will create jobs, and leverage on technology with significant youth participation.

“I am very pleased to see that work has advanced and quite a bit is already being done. There is a need to synergize really concretely with Green Imperative (which is the partnership with the Brazilians), I think there are areas where these two programmes can complement each other,” according to the Vice President.

According to him, “I am absolutely certain that we have enough room given the sheer size of the agric enterprise in Nigeria, we have enough room to accommodate these programmes, especially when they are synergized in a way that it will benefit the entire sector.”

Emphasizing the need to also ensure effective synergy with the 36 States, the Vice President said “again, synergy will be crucial with the States because there is no way of getting this thing done without a close collaboration with the States because the States are where these projects will be cited.”

Prof. Osinbajo then commended the efforts of all stakeholders on the project noting that “this is a very good progress that we have made and we must ensure this actually works. Particularly with the collaboration of the Ministry of Agriculture, and Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment.”

Earlier in his remarks, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Alhaji Mohammed Nanono welcomed the partnership to establish agro-processing zones across the country, noting that it would be to the benefit of farmers and the agric sector at large.

He also emphasized the need for synergy of ideas and efforts to ensure that the Special-Agro Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme complements the Green Imperative initiative of the Buhari administration.

On his part, Associate Vice President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Mr Donal Brown who joined virtually, said the organization would co-finance the project with the AfDB with the view to creating an important opportunity for small-holder farmers in Nigeria to improve their farm yields, enhance their income and livelihoods. Already, IFAD is working with about 150,000 Nigerian small holder farmers.

Besides the Ministers, other officials at the meeting included the Special Adviser to the President on Economic Matters, Dr Adeyemi Dipeolu; the MD/CEO of Bank of Industry, Mr Kayode Pitan; Senior Special Adviser to the AfDB President on Industrialization, Prof Oyebanji Oyeyinka, among other senior officials from the AfDB and IFAD.


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

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE



INTERNET ACCESS & BROADBAND CONNECTIVITY IS COMPULSORY FOR GROWTH & WILL BECOME EXISTENTIAL – OSINBAJO


*VP takes pride in Ogun State digital infrastructure efforts


The recognition that internet access and broadband penetration will become existential in the nearest future and will determine Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global economy, among others, is the driving force behind the Buhari administration’s initiative on broadband connectivity for all, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this today in his remarks delivered virtually at the launch of the Ogun State Digital Economy Empowerment Project.

According to the Vice President, making digital technology available to all our citizens and businesses “is the most farsighted action any government can take today. Indeed, access to broadband and other technology tools have become compulsory for any community that seeks meaningful growth, prosperity, and security for its people.

“We must press on in our quest to democratize access to the internet. We are pursuing this cause because we recognize that internet access and broadband penetration will become existential in a few short years and will determine our competitiveness in the global economy.”

Speaking about the Buhari administration’s commitment to ensure broadband connectivity for all by 2023, Prof. Osinbajo said “this ambition is now enshrined in our Economic Sustainability Plan.”

His words: “as part of the national commitment to make broadband connectivity available to all, in 2017, the State Governors under the auspices of the National Economic Council (NEC) agreed to harmonize right of way charges payable by telecommunications companies and related public utility infrastructure on Local Governments, States and Federal Highways to encourage co-location of fiber optic cables.

“In another demonstration of Government’s commitment in this regard, the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy launched the National Broadband Plan which is designed to deliver data download speeds across Nigeria of a minimum 25Mbps in urban areas and 10Mbps in rural areas, with effective coverage available to at least 90% of the population by 2025 at affordable prices.

“The plan gives special attention to unserved and underserved areas in the distribution of telecom services. Many States have already complied with the right of way policy and have reduced the rates to as low as N140 per meter, while some States have completely removed the charges.”

Commending the Ogun State for taking leadership in digital technology in Nigeria, the Vice President said “by bringing last mile broadband access to homes, businesses, and offices in Ogun State, you are opening up Ogun state residents and businesses digitally not just to Nigeria but to the entire universe.”

The Vice President who said “today is one of my proudest days as a citizen of Ogun State”, added that “through judicious investments in the right infrastructure, Ogun State has positioned itself to become a major global site of the emergent innovation economy.

“I believe that bridging the digital divide in the state will also lead to improved education outcomes and provide opportunities for improved access to education across the state and at different levels starting from primary to tertiary education. The digital revolution that this project will bring will be a game-changer in every aspect of the socio-economic life of this State.”

Prof. Osinbajo noted that improving access to broadband will provide an opportunity for young Nigerian innovators to take on their peers from across the world on a more level playing field.

The Ogun Digital Economy Empowerment Project is an initiative of the State Government in collaboration with 21st Century Technologies aimed at providing digital infrastructure to enhance broadband connectivity across the state.

Besides the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and other State dignitaries, other guests present at the launch included the former State Governor, Mr Gbenga Daniel, the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Prof. Umar Danbatta, among others.


Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
15th April 2021

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE


RAMADAN: A TIME REDEDICATE TO HIGHER VIRTUES OF KINDNESS,  LOVE & GENEROSITY,  SAYS VP OSINBAJO

As the Ramadan fast progresses, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, has called on Muslim faithfuls in Nigeria to rededicate themselves to higher virtues of kindness, love, and generosity towards each other, regardless of faith or ethnicity.

Speaking to State House Correspondents on his way out from the Council Chambers after the Federal Executive Council meeting which he presided over, Prof. Osinbajo said “I must express my very sincere greetings to our Muslim brothers and sisters who have begun the Ramadan Fast already, and to say that, this is not just the time for abstinence from food, drink, and other worldly pleasures, but also a time for us to rededicate ourselves to higher virtues of kindness, love, generosity towards each other as brothers and sisters, regardless of faith or ethnicity.”

The Vice President added that “ for our nation, it is a time I believe, to recommit ourselves to unity, to brotherhood, to peace and reconciliation in various ways so that our country will achieve all of the objectives that we have all set for ourselves.”

He then wished “our Muslim brothers and sisters a very happy period of Ramadan. Ramadan Kareem.”

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

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

HOW COVID -19 PANDEMIC OPENED UP IMMENSE TALENTS OF NIGERIAN SCIENTISTS - BY BUHARI

*Osinbajo represents President at Nigerian Academy of Engineers Public Forum

Describing Nigerian scientists as worthy assets to be nurtured, President Muhammadu Buhari has observed that the COVID-19 pandemic revealed the potentials, talents and the creativity of the nation’s scientists.

In a speech delivered earlier today on the President’s behalf by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, at a public forum organized by the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, the President commended Nigerian engineers for the diversity of their experience and competence.

According to him, “I think the pandemic has truly opened up the immense talents and creativity of Nigerian scientists and engineers and if the current momentum is supported, the next few years could be incredibly exciting.”

He went on to commend the academy and its membership saying, “we are proud of Nigerian Academy of Engineers; your membership is made up of accomplished Nigerian engineers across all disciplines industry sectors of engineering in Nigeria and in the diaspora. This provides it with the depth and diversity of experience and competence to provide advice on virtually all areas of engineering in the country.”

Speaking on the important role of Science, Technology and Engineering in dealing with the pandemic, the President noted that the world turned to these disciplines “for immediate solutions and answers. I am sure that as engineers, you will agree with me that one of the most poignant lessons of the response to the pandemic is the critical interdependence of science and engineering.”

Giving an update on production of a local vaccine, the President noted that the African Centre of Excellence for the Genomics of Infectious Disease located at Redeemer's University Ede, has “developed an efficacious rapid test for COVID and have been working on a vaccine in collaboration with DIOSynVax (Digital Immune Optimised Synthetic Vaccines), Cambridge UK, using the DIOSynVax genomic based technology.”

“There are also efforts going on therapeutics of various kinds. The development of vaccines, tests and therapeutics these days are aided by automation, machine learning and artificial intelligence, so this is a strong point of synergy between science and engineering.”

Citing the opportunities presented during the lockdown period, President Buhari stated the “huge potential for the creation of effective technologies for tele-work activities, including Telemedicine and Fintech.”

The President recalled his Executive Order Nos 5 which directs all Ministries, Departments and Agencies ("MDAs" of government to engage indigenous professionals in the planning, design and execution of national security projects and maximise in-country capacity in all contracts and transactions with science, engineering and technology components.

Present at the public forum attended virtually by the Vice President were the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu; President of Nigerian Academy of Engineering, Engr. Alex O. Ogedegbe; Executive Secretary of Nigerian Academy of Engineering, Engr. Titi Omo-Ettu; Guest Speaker, Engr. Prof Babatunde Ogunnaike and other top officials of the academy.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
12th April 2021

Productive week

*LATEST 2023 PREEMPTIVE ATTACK ON VP:

OSINBAJO IS ABOVE CHRISTIANIZATION OR ANY SECTIONAL AGENDA FOR THAT MATTER*

*This VP, the world knows is a man of honour
* His most senior staff, three of 5 advisers are faithful Moslems: Rahman Ipaye, Uwais, Ojudu & Zakari


By now Nigerians are settled in their minds what kind of man Yemi Osinbajo is. Most people of goodwill have no problems figuring out his public spirit, integrity, passion for people, humility, hardwork and competence.

Yet there are those desperate to deliver stains on Yemi's glowing white garments. Because they are not successful each time they tried, they have resorted to rehashing same old stories no matter how fake and regardless of the obvious truth that debunks the fake narratives.

As it is with WhatsApp, I stumbled upon an article with the title "Osinbajo's Stealth Christianization Agenda" by a faceless Dr Musbau Akinbode, who says he is from Surulere. The article makes for good reading if you have some time to spare reading gossips, but for those who understand and follow the activities and appointments by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, it is most laughable.

The so-called Dr M. A. as he called himself the first time, sought to drive a wedge between the Muslims from Southwest of Nigeria and the Vice President by pushing an emotional set of lies, many of which bordered around his time in the Presidency since 2015.

The article claimed that Osinbajo has appointed more Christians particularly from the Redeeemed Christian Church of God but could only manage to come up with 6 names, 5 of whom the Vice President did not appoint.
They are
*DG, Budget Office (Ben Akabueze);
*DG, BPE (Alex Okoh) and
*Minister of Trade & Investment (2015 - 2019) Okey Enelamah,
*MD, Bank of Industry (Kayode Pitan) and
*Ben Ovwiosu and Akin Akinwale, (both Executive Commissioners, PENCOM).

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

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

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

The positions following the Deputy Chief of Staff’s in the order of hierarchy, are the Special Advisers in the Office of the Vice President.
The VP has 5 Special Advisers and 3 are Muslims;
*Senator Babafemi Ojudu from Ekiti State  *Barrister Mariam Uwais from Kano State, and wife of a former Chief Justice.
*Engr Ahmad Rufai Zakari fron Jigawa State

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Certainly, Dr M. A. who now says he is Musbau is a lone voice in this propaganda against the Vice President of Nigeria, who has acted in good faith to all religions and ethnic groups.

He certainly does not represent the Yoruba/Southwest Muslims or any Muslim in this country in anyway. It is clear that his article is a calculated attempt to smear the VP ahead of the 2023 Presidential election, perceiving him a threat.

If he must attack a man of goodwill he and his paymasters must do so only on the basis of truth. If not let them keep silent and stop exposing themselves!

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE


TIME TO PROVIDE MORE ELECTRICITY FOR NIGERIANS IS NOW, SAYS OSINBAJO AT LAUNCH OF 5M SOLAR POWER CONNECTIONS

*VP flags off in Jigawa, rollout in all geopolitical zones forthcoming

*Jangefe community of 5,000 to get 1,000 Solar Home Systems

*At turbaning of Water Resources Minister as Galadima, Emir of Kazaure calls VP "my distinguished brother, friend & learned colleague"


A plan to deliver electricity to about 25m Nigerians whose communities are off the grid has commenced in Jigawa State flagged off by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, who restated the determination of the Buhari administration to ensure that millions more will now have access to cheap and environmentally friendly renewable power.

Coming under the Economic Sustainability Plan, Prof. Osinbajo says the launch of the Solar Power Naija programme is taking off with the Jangefe Community in Roni Local Government Area (in the Kazaure Emirate) of the State and will get to all geopolitical zones in the country soon.

"After Jangefe, " according to the VP, the rollout will continue "across the 6 geopolitical zones in Edo, Lagos, Adamawa, Anambra, Kebbi and Plateau. Other Solar companies are also in the pipeline for the Solar Power Naija facility to continue the march to 5 million connections during the life of this administration,” the Vice President said.

The scheme will then go to the entire 36 States and the FCT covering 25million Nigerians in the end.

The commencement of the Solar Power Naija programme means the community will get 1,000 Solar Home Systems connections for its about 5,000 population.

The Vice President, flagged off the commencement of the installation in Jigawa, in what is part of a 100,000 scheme with A-SOLAR, a local solar power company implementing aspects of the ESP Solar Power Naija scheme.

The Jangefe community in Jigawa, which is the first location to be covered by the A-Solar company, will pay monthly energy payments until the systems are fully paid for at the point in which there will be a transfer of ownership to each consumer in the community.

The Vice President noted that the “President had emphasised that we could no longer rely solely on the grid if we were to electrify the whole country. Which meant that we had to develop an effective strategy for decentralizing power supply. Two obvious things to do were, first to think of implementing more off-grid solutions and to use renewable energy especially solar power.”

“Another challenge turned opportunity was Covid-19 and our response to the economic fallouts of the pandemic - the Economic Sustainability Plan. A fundamental rationale for the plan was to retain existing jobs and create new jobs. A mass solar programme seemed like a real chance to kill several birds with one stone; electrify the country and in the process, create thousands of jobs from solar assembly and manufacturing plants to installers, payment system operators, and maintenance of solar systems once installed.

"Mr. President, therefore, approved the inclusion of what came to be known as the Solar Power Naija programme in the Economic Sustainability Plan which he asked me to chair.

“The Solar Power Naija programme which is designed by the Rural Electrification Agency is an ambitious initiative that aims to create 5 million connections through a 140 billion Naira financing programme that will support private developers to provide power for 5 million households, which means providing electricity for up to 25 million Nigerians.

Prof. Osinbajo further stated that the solar power programme is a public-private sector partnership supported by concessionary lending via the Central Bank of Nigeria and commercial banks.

The VP noted that structures have been put in place to make the connections costs affordable for all.

“In addition to the concessionary lending rates, the Government has provided subsidies and rebates for private developers to the tune of over $200 million under the Rural Electrification Agency and World Bank Nigeria Electrification Programme. The programme incorporates several innovative solutions to increase affordability for the citizens while also providing sufficient comfort to investors and financiers alike,” he stated.

The VP added that Jangefe community would derive several benefits from the flag off of the programme in Jigawa State.

The Vice President commended the Jigawa State Governor, Alh. Badaru Abubakar, His Royal Highness, the Emir of Kazaure, the Emirate Council and the Local Government of Roni, as well as other critical stakeholders for their roles in ensuring the implementation of the programme in the community.

He said, “the Governor’s style of engagement and focus on economic growth and cooperation by bringing people together is one of the reasons why it was so easy to execute this project in Jigawa. This mindset and approach of the Jigawa State administration created the environment for the Local Government Authority and the Emirate Council to work in harmony with the developers to make this project a reality. This is probably why Jigawa State will continue to attract investments for the benefit of its people and the country at large."

The Vice President also commended the Emir of Kazaure, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Najid Hussaini Adamu who made a down payment for the community to benefit from the solar connections. Prof Osinbajo said not only was this a good example, but it also facilitated the programme.

He also noted the diligent efforts of the Special Adviser to the President on Infrastructure, Ahmad Rufai Zakari “in coordinating with all the relevant parties to lead us to the successful launch of the programme today.”

Earlier in his remarks, Jigawa State Governor Alhaji Abubakar Badaru commended both President Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, saying the Federal Government’s support to the State and other States despite declining resources, has been unprecedented since 2015. He mentioned how the Buhari administration gave a bailout to States of the Federation to pay salaries and also the payment of the long outstanding refund from the Paris Club debts among others.

He said the solar project like many other schemes that have been implemented will positively impact the economy of the state in line with the vision of the President and his deputy.

The Governor noted that the school feeding programme and other schemes implemented by the Federal Government in the state have, aside from impacting the economy, improved school enrollment from about 600,000 to over a million since implementation.

After the flag-off of the scheme, the Vice President visited the family of Alhaji Auwalu Dauda, a beneficiary of the programme in Jangefe to interact with them on the impact of the programme.

Also present at the solar event were Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje of Kano State, who had received the Vice President at the Kano Airport en route Jigawa; Deputy Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Umar Namadi; Deputy Governor of Katsina, Alhaji Mannir Yakubu; the Minister of Power, Engr Saleh Mamman; Minister of State for Power, Mr Goddy Jeddy-Agba; the Emir of Kazaure, HRH, Alhaji Najid Hussaini Adamu; the Special Adviser to the President on Infrastructure and the San-Turaki of Kazaure Ahmad Rufai Zakari, the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, REA, Alhaji Salhijo Ahmad, the Managing Director, Niger Delta Power Holding Company, Mr Chiedu Ugbo; the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, Mr. Alex Okoh among others.

Earlier on arrival in the State, Prof. Osinbajo attended, as special guest, the turbaning of the Minister of Water Resources, Engr Suleiman Adamu as the Madakin Kazaure and Galadiman Roni. At the event, the Emir of Kazaure asked the new Galadima to provide good leadership to the people and also prayed that God will guide him in his new role.

The Emir also prayed for peace and prosperity in Nigeria adding that there will be a divine intervention in the country. He described the VP as "my distinguished friend and brother and my learned colleague," recalling that they both were students at the same time at the Law School.

Besides the Jigawa Governor, a number of State Governors also joined the Vice President at the palace of Emir of Kazaure for the turbaning of the Minister of Water Resources, Engr. Suleiman Adamu as Galadima. They include the Governors of Ekiti, Kaduna, Kano, Kwara and Katsina. There were also members of the Federal Executive Council present including the National Security Adviser, Rtd General Baba Gana Monguno.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
10th April 2021

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE 

OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT

*I AGREE WITH THE PRESIDENT THAT FIRST LADY AISHA IS A WORTHY PARTNER, BEACON OF THE GOOD THINGS FROM OUR ADMINISTRATION, SAYS OSINBAJO*
 
_*VP adds: Aisha Buhari’s difference has been empowering for the Nigerian people_
 
Beyond her customary role as the First Lady, Aisha Buhari has continued to be a worthy partner and an inspiration for several good initiatives that Nigerians have come to identify with the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.
 
This was stated by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, during the public presentation of a book on the First Lady, titled “Aisha Buhari: Being Different,” which held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja, on Thursday.
 
According to the VP, the book on the First Lady was not just an important addition to the literary canon on public life and Nigerian biographical history, it was a window into the credible efforts of the First Lady in empowering Nigerians.
 
Quoting the words he directly attributed to President Buhari, the VP noted that, “Aisha, as the world has come to know her, is kind-hearted; this made her transition to philanthropy and humanitarianism easy. When she became First Lady, her protective mien was exerted when women, children, and other vulnerable people are abused.
 
Still quoting the President directly, the VP continued: " I have observed with keen interest, as she addresses many of the social concerns that have given her sleepless nights. She has, therefore, been a worthy partner and a beacon for some of the good things that Nigerians have come to identify with our government.” I concur, I agree.”
 
Speaking personally, the Vice President stated that, “with her views forthright, crisp, truthful and every once in a while, controversial, she has established an ongoing conversation with the Nigerian people on the issues that concern them most, issues that concern us the most: good governance, security, putting food on the table, education of our children, prompt payment of pensions to army veterans, and drug abuse, violation and victimization of women.
 
"She airs her own personal struggles, her annoyance, in a manner probably unprecedented in the role of First Lady anywhere.
 
“There is no question that Aisha Buhari is different; her difference has been empowering for the Nigerian people and there is never any question that her comments come from a good place, a place of genuine love and respect for the Nigerian people and our several concerns.”
 
According to the Vice President, the book was a “detailed and sensitive chronicle of her childhood years and her growth as a woman, wife and mother.”
 
He added that it “it also highlights her evolution from a silent supporter of her husband’s political adventures to an active mobilizer and campaigner that played a major role in selling him to the Nigerian electorate.  Then we also read in the book, how as First Lady, she founded the “Future Assured” initiative, promoting the welfare of women, youth and children, driven by the Aisha Buhari Foundation.”
 
Then the VP highlighted the influence of the First Lady’s role as a doting wife, mother and advocate for girl child education, as well as the impact of her Future Assured initiative, which he stated was inspired by the First Lady’s “conviction that empowering women is a direct way of promoting the economic and social progress of a nation.”
 
He said, “we are also given a good picture of this steadfast advocate of women’s health issues, who has championed improved access to healthcare for women, especially in respect of maternal health with the aim of reducing maternal mortality, particularly in rural communities.
 
“We understand the roots of her relentless pursuit in these past years of the empowerment of women, especially through education, the need for young girls to get primary and secondary school education before getting married. We understand her stand that no girl should get married before the age of 17. It is from her own experience being married at 19, and her single-mindedness and determination in ensuring that her educational pursuits were not aborted by her obligations as a wife and mother.
 
“We also get a glimpse of the role she considers primary, being “Mum-in-Chief” to Halima, Yusuf, Zara, Hanan, Chuchu, and now many grandchildren. Her personal attention to the lives of each of her children, and her fierce protection of their privacy and individuality is a lesson in bringing up children under the scrutiny of a sometimes mischievous social media."
 
Speaking further, the Vice President commended the author, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Administration and Women Affairs, Dr. Hajo Sanni, for writing “a most engaging book on an incredibly fascinating person, Her Excellency Aisha Buhari, Nigeria’s First Lady, and seeking “to document the practical work she has done in the past five years.”
 
He said, “it is unlikely that any First Lady in Nigeria’s history has in a few years captured the imagination of Nigerians as profoundly as Aisha Buhari. She is, of course, the first First Lady to be on Twitter, Instagram, and other social media platforms, getting her unfiltered views across to the Nigerian people and she’s probably the first to receive in real-time, the opinions of Nigerians on her views.”
 
According to the VP, the book on the First Lady has etched her name and the impact of her good works on the sands of history.
 
He said, “perhaps because of the undefined nature of their positions, it was (former US First Lady) Michelle Obama who famously said that there is no handbook on how to be a First Lady, and the sometimes uncertain impact of their roles on the affairs of state, First Ladies quickly fade into obscurity when the curtains of time are drawn on the tenure of the administration of their husbands.
 
“But it is unlikely that Aisha Buhari would ever be forgotten and even if there was a chance of this happening, this well written attempt to document her life, times and contributions as First Lady to national life through the causes that she has taken up, removes that possibility.”
 
Besides the First Lady herself, dignitaries present at the event chaired by the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, include the wife of the Vice President, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo; former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan; wife of former Vice President, Amina Sambo; the Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Sa’ad Abubakar III; Chairman of Nigeria Governors Forum and Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; the Chief of Staff to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari; Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen; and a number of federal cabinet members; the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Folasade Yemi-Esan, who represented the Secretary to the Government of the Federation; wives of State Governors, among other senior government officials.
 
*Laolu Akande*
*Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity*
*Office of the Vice President*
*8th April 2021*

E choke!!!! Who dey breet........Congratulations sir

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE


OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT


OSINBAJO'S EASTER MESSAGE TO NIGERIANS: ALL WILL BE WELL WITH OUR COUNTRY
*VP says there will be grace and mercy


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*

*OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT*

*INNOVATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP OF OUR YOUNG PEOPLE IS THE STRENGTH OF OUR ECONOMY - OSINBAJO*

_*Flags off 27th MSMEs Clinic in Gombe State_

_*Adds: MSMEs nationwide are being supported by the FG under ESP schemes to cushion the effects of the pandemic on small businesses_

_*VP commends inventors of Nigeria’s first, medical-grade ventilator_

A major strength of the Nigerian economy lies in the innovation and entrepreneurship of its young people, which is a key reason why the Buhari administration is focused on supporting small businesses and the innovative ideas of young Nigerians, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this on Tuesday at the 27th edition of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Clinics in Gombe State.

The Vice President also highlighted the impact of the Survival Fund scheme - under the Economic Sustainability Plan (ESP) - of the Buhari administration in supporting MSMEs and safeguarding millions of jobs nationwide.

Commending the efforts of the State government in harnessing the entrepreneurial talents of youths in the State, the Vice President said, “I am glad to note the commitment of the State government to invest in young people and their innovative efforts.”

Continuing, he said, “at the height of fears about obtaining ventilators, I read about three young men who invented Nigeria’s first medical-grade ventilator, right here in Gombe. One of them, Aliyu Hassan, spoke about how they had worked from a room in his home, where they ate, slept and worked on their invention.”

Speaking about the Federal Government’s efforts in creating more opportunities for young Nigerians, the Vice President said the Buhari administration is investing in Shared Facilities for some aspects of the agro-processing and other value chains across the country.

According to the Vice President, “the National MSME Clinics programme has facilitated the establishment of Shared Facilities for MSMEs in Lagos, Bauchi, Oyo and Benue States, with others to be established in Kaduna, Kebbi, Anambra, Ogun, Ebonyi, Edo, Katsina and Kano States over the next one year.

“These Shared Facilities will provide fully-equipped cluster-style spaces that MSMEs can use at a reasonable cost, thus sparing them the financial burden of having to buy their own equipment. Where possible, these Shared Facilities will be pre-certified by relevant regulatory agencies.”

Citing the example of the 200,000-capacity yam storage facility for MSMEs at the Zaki Biam International Yam Market in Benue State, Prof Osinbajo said, “the storage facility is designed to address the problem of Post-Harvest Losses (PHL), which is one of the greatest impediments to fully actualizing the immense potential of the agriculture sector.”

Justifying the Federal Government’s intervention at the market, the Vice President had stated then that, “Nigeria produces 17 million tonnes of yams annually, but loses up to 40% of this yield due to the lack of adequate storage.”

At the 27th edition of the National MSME Clinics, Prof. Osinbajo said the Clinic is a Federal Government initiative to work with State Governments to support small businesses. The last edition (26th) was held in Nasarawa State in 2020.

The MSMEs Clinics, driven by the Vice President, is a Federal Government initiative, whose major focus is to work with State Governments to support small, medium enterprises.

According to the VP, “the obvious reason is that MSMEs are indisputably the engine of growth in any economy. MSMEs also employ the largest numbers of people. So, the MSME Clinics were designed to bring regulatory agencies whose work affects the business experience of MSMEs to meet with MSMEs on the spot.

“This gives MSMEs an opportunity to bring their business-related concerns to the attention of regulatory agencies for the solution, outside the formal and sometimes intimidating head offices of these agencies.”

Giving an update implementation of the Survival Fund in Gombe State, Prof. Osinbajo said “Gombe State Government has been actively engaged to ensure that its citizens benefit maximally from all tracks in the MSMEs related schemes.”

He said “in all, MSMEs in Gombe State has been supported by the Federal Government with almost N1.2 Billion under ESP schemes to cushion the effects of the pandemic on small businesses. There is more to come as I have been informed by the Chairperson and Project Coordinator that additional businesses and employees in Gombe State are currently undergoing verification with a view to being short-listed for payment.”

Giving a breakdown of the implementation, Prof. Osinbajo said, “on the Payroll Support Scheme, for Gombe State alone, we have paid out almost N1 Billion to over 9,085 employees from close to 2,000 MSMEs in the educational sector.

“We have disbursed over N200 million to nearly 10,000 artisans and transporters in the state. Up to 6,000 new business names have been registered free of charge with the CAC.”

Commending the efforts of the Federal Government, Gombe State Governor, Alhaji Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, said the State Government’s commitment to invest in youth entrepreneurship is prompted by the desire to tap from the abundant talents available in the state.

He thanked the Vice President for flagging off the Clinic in the State, noting that he is a worthy example and a strong supporter of youth entrepreneurship.

Present at the flag-off event were the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Alli Pantami; Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Amb. Mariam Katagum; former governor of Gombe State, Senator Danjuma Goje; members of the National Assembly, among others.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
31st March 2021

Osinbajo/ Zulum

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT

HOW BUHARI ADMINISTRATION’S ESP HELPED NIGERIA TACKLE COVID-19 CHALLENGES - OSINBAJO

*VP highlights impact of Sustainability Plan in saving jobs, sustaining livelihood, improving healthcare sector

*Calls for global action in access to vaccines for African countries in Chatham House event

Nigeria’s priorities in a post-COVID-19 world include restoring economic growth in the immediate term, building resilience in the health sector, and repositioning the economy on a sustainable footing in the medium term while saving jobs and building domestic capacity and local production in critical areas.

These were the summations of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, during a virtual Chatham House interactive session on Tuesday themed: “Priorities for Nigeria’s Post-COVID Recovery”.

During the Chatham House interaction, the Vice President discussed the challenges posed to Nigeria by the global COVID-19 pandemic and the Nigerian government’s response aimed at ensuring lasting socio-economic recovery and development.

Prof. Osinbajo highlighted the significant impact of the Buhari administration’s Economic Sustainability Plan (ESP) as a crucial pivot in helping the country respond to the fallouts of the pandemic.

He explained that “the Buhari administration’s first priority was to protect people and their livelihoods in response to the fallout of the pandemic. One of the ways was to support the critical MSMEs sector through the Survival Fund scheme, a component under the ESP.”

According to the VP, “one of the specific interventions under the ESP was what we describe as the Survival Fund, which essentially was a fund to protect jobs and to ensure that during the course of the pandemic and immediately thereafter, informal workers in particular or private sector workers especially those in the informal sector, were at least able to continue to earn some wages."

Prof. Osinbajo stated that through the Survival Fund scheme, over 300,000 beneficiaries, as well as businesses have been supported during the pandemic “by providing salaries for three months for beneficiaries, which include private school teachers, artisans, road transporters, taxi cab operators, and commercial tricycle operators in the urban areas .

“We also sought to protect the most vulnerable, in particular, the urban poor who were also hard hit. What we did was to provide direct cash transfers to the urban poor, many of them who are captured in a social register. In the first phase of that, we are able to benefit about 1 million beneficiaries, and we are now in a position using the same social register to scale up the programme to about 20 million beneficiaries.”

The Vice President also highlighted the work being done by government in the areas of improving broadband connectivity and expanding the country’s national identity base, which he stated would help in developing the country’s existing social register and other pro-poor programmes under the Buhari administration’s Social Investment schemes.

Also, to stimulate production in the economy, Prof. Osinbajo noted that the Federal Government is “focused on energising existing value chain in agriculture, construction and renewable energy,” even as he highlighted the impact of the ESP’s agriculture scheme and social housing programme in improving local productivity and creating jobs.

“Our agriculture programme (under the ESP) aims at expanding productivity, creating a total of about 5 million jobs. What we have done so far is that we've been able to register and geotag about 5 million new farmers to farmland areas. The programme is also supporting smallholder farmers by linking them to extension services and low-interest input financing.

“We also have a mass housing programme which is designed to deliver affordable homes through direct intervention in the housing construction sector aimed at creating 1.8 million jobs together with the construction of 300,000 homes in the first phase. At the moment, the programme is ongoing in 12 states which will be expanded to all of the states in the federation.”

The Vice President further explained that the ESP was developed as a short-term strategy to address the two-fold challenge posed by the pandemic: to both public health and the national economy.

For instance, in the health sector, Prof. Osinbajo stated that a critical area for government in the fallout of the pandemic “is in doing far more with our research institutions and investing far more in these institutions.”

He said, “since February 2020 (when Nigeria confirmed its first COVID-19 case), we have significantly ramped up our testing and case management capacity. We have activated from about five molecular laboratories to about 120, most of them public laboratories.

“We have expanded the footprint of our sovereign public health response capacity, especially at the sub-national level, and in areas where such capabilities didn’t exist before.


Prof. Osinbajo further said government was also focused on promoting a culture of preparedness across all levels of the country’s health care system by building resilience in the health sector.

“Going forward," he said "we are committed to building on the exemplary dedication of our health workers and strengthening the capacity of our health systems to withstand shocks created by infectious diseases and pandemics such as we are experiencing.

“One reason why we've been able to manage this pandemic better than expected is that we did have some existing public sector infrastructure to work with, the Ebola outbreak in 2014, our ongoing battles with Lassa fever, our successes with polio eradication all helped us to tighten our pandemic contingency plans, strengthen our emergency coordination and surveillance capacity and also enhance investments in public health laboratories.”

The Vice President highlighted the government’s efforts through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in tackling the pandemic, adding that it also prioritized the strengthening of the country’s public health infrastructure

“While it is true that in many respects, our hospital infrastructure still lags behind in standards, especially when compared with richer countries of the world, we've been able to draw on the resilience and adaptability of our tried and tested community health system,” he noted.

The VP also called for global action in ensuring access to vaccines, especially in poorer countries, noting that, “there are justifiable concerns, in my view, about the certainty of fair and equitable access to vaccines, as well as the likelihood that poorer countries would be left behind if the distribution of these vaccines is determined by the nationalistic sentiments.”

“As part of our recovery efforts, Nigeria has taken delivery of about 4 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccines under the international COVAX scheme and we have commenced vaccination of our people. This year, we will receive 84 million doses of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine under that same scheme, which would be enough to vaccinate about 20 per cent of our population.”

According to the VP, “in our globalised environment, national self-interest is insufficient to address the challenge of a global pandemic, Indeed, in a world that is interconnected as ours, any plan other than a global plan is bound to be counter-productive.”

The Vice President further stated that a policy imperative of the Buhari administration is also hinged on encouraging value addition in every sector of the economy, especially to consolidate areas where the country had comparative advantage.

The live event was chaired by a senior official of Chatham House; Dr. Renata Sevan.

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

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*
*OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT*

*ITS UNPRECEDENTED, TRANSPARENT, FAIR & IMPACTFUL, MSME SURVIVAL FUND BENEFICIARIES TELL VICE PRESIDENT*

*Over 146, 811 transport sector beneficiaries so far paid

*At least 307,173 Payroll Support beneficiaries paid

*114,557 Artisans Track beneficiaries receive payments


Beneficiaries of the Buhari administration’s Survival Fund from the Transportation and Education sectors hailed the Economic Sustainability Plan (ESP) scheme yesterday, praising the President and his deputy for the success of what they described as an unprecedented, transparent, fair, and impactful programme.


Responding during two different feedback-focused virtual interactive sessions earlier today, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN declared that the President wanted to do more, and would be encouraged by the success stories of the beneficiaries and the impact created.


“What the President wanted was to pay every private sector employee (in the education sector). But the cost was humongous so we had to rationalize,” Prof. Osinbajo noted regarding the payroll support aspect of the Survival Fund.


He added that the feedback from the beneficiaries of both the transport and Payroll Support schemes will encourage the President. “It is good that most people have received the fund, by the time I report back to the President, it will encourage him. “


Responding to beneficiaries in the Transport sector, the VP noted that “Mr President has asked regularly about the progress of the MSMEs Survival Fund. He is particularly concerned about what we can do for transport workers. So you can be sure that we're going to be focused on this issue.


“It was in recognition of the importance of road transportation to the economy that the Economic Sustainability Plan (ESP), set aside specific funds, the MSMEs Survival Fund, with a special focus and emphasis on road transportation workers.


“We want to make sure that the economy survives, what we are doing is not a favour to the transport industry. We think it is important that this industry survives in the interest of our nation and our economy and the interest of the people of this country.”


In his remarks to the payroll support group, the VP said “I also want to thank all of you, the school owners and beneficiaries. One of the very important things for us, when we were drafting the Plan and design, was that we wanted to look at certain critical sectors of the Nigerian economy that required intervention in the wake of the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. Of course, we recognized that schools were vital...”


Prof. Osinbajo said, “We designed the ESP to focus on certain critical sectors, and the education sector, particularly private schools, was one of them because, during the lockdown, private schools were in a much difficult place. So, we felt that we should also support private schools through the MSME Survival Fund platform.”


As the Survival Fund enters its 7th month, the Steering Committee led by Minister of State, Industry, Trade and Investment, Amb. Mariam Katagum and representatives of beneficiaries in the Transportation and Education sectors held a virtual meeting with the VP to express their appreciation for the implementation of the scheme.


The President of the Road Transport Employers Association (RTEAN), Alhaji Musa Muhammed, said the implementation of the Survival Fund was unprecedented in the history of the country, noting that beneficiaries remained indebted to the government for the show of concern during the COVID-19 pandemic period.


He however urged authorities to do more for the sector by creating a Transportation Bank to cater to the growing needs of road transport operators in the country.


The Deputy General Secretary of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Mr Tony Asogwa, while appreciating the effort of the Vice President and the coordinating committee for a smooth implementation of the scheme, noted that the scheme was not a tribalistic programme as beneficiaries are spread across persons from the different ethno-religious backgrounds.


In the same vein, Alhaji Yususf Usman of the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), said over 60% of members of the group had received payments under the scheme and appealed to the Federal Government to also look into the plight of the owners having catered for the workers.


On her part, Mrs Precious Ukpe, representative of Bookyard International School, PortHarcourt, Rivers State, said the intervention from the Federal Government has been very impactful, noting that it enabled many schools to resume normal activities.


Another beneficiary of the Payroll Support, the Proprietor, Adebabs Inland Montessori School, Mr Babatunde Lateef, thanked the Buhari administration for the payroll support for private schools, adding that "I wish this scheme can continue for long for private schools across Nigeria."


Speaking on the transparency of the scheme the Vice President noted that “the first problem is that we are limited by the resources available to us. But it was very important for us that this process be a transparent process so that it is an auditable process, anybody can check where money is going, who is receiving money and how many people have received money.”


“And this is one of the reasons why we are extremely proud of the work that has been done by the survival fund steering committee under the very able leadership of the Hon. Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment. They had ensured that this is a transparent process.


“It was at the urging of the Hon Minister that we brought in one of the very important private sector players – the Chairperson of First Bank Nigeria PLC, Mrs Ibukun Awosika, to co-chair the MSMEs Survival Fund, so that we could bring in private sector discipline and the efficiency of the private sector into this whole thing,” the Vice President added.


The Vice President appreciated the feedback from both the private school owners under Payroll Support and beneficiaries from the Transport sector, noting that their positive response was evidence of the excellent work being done by the Survival Fund scheme.


He added that the Project Delivery Office of the MSME Survival Fund will also look at the suggestions and address the issues raised.


“I can assure you that we will look at the suggestions raised and see how we can address them,” he said.


Earlier in her remarks, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Amb. Mariam Katagum said that since the enumeration of the first set of beneficiaries on 17th January, 2021, a total of 155,920 beneficiaries in the transport track have so far been approved for payment while 9,109 pending cases are being processed for payment.


The Minister added that the balance to be enumerated is about 19,689 but noted that only 22% of female beneficiaries in the track were reached because of the peculiar nature of the transportation business.


The Minister noted that the education sector alone had about 850,000 applications during the one week the survival portal was reopened, compared to about half of the number when the portal was first opened for six weeks.


She said that so far, 43% of the Survival Fund beneficiaries are females.


“At least 100,000 employees in the education sector have been paid as at the last count, and more employees in this sector have been whitelisted for approval of payment. Private schools play an important role, government cannot do it alone in terms of educational provision. So going forward, whenever we find the opportunity to assist, we would do as much as we could,” she stated.


So far, over 146, 811 transport sector beneficiaries have so far been paid under the Transport Track 30,000 one-off grant; at least 307,173 Payroll Support beneficiaries have been paid, and 14,557 Artisans Track beneficiaries have received payments under the scheme.


Preparations are ongoing to pay the balance of beneficiaries under the various tracks while prospective beneficiaries of the General Grant and Guaranteed Off-take Scheme are being enumerated for payment.


Speakers representing stakeholders from the six geo-political zones in the education sector include, Mr Babatunde Lateef from Adebabs Inland Montessori School, Lagos represented the South West; Mrs Precious Ukpe from Bookyard International School, Rivers State represented the South South; Mrs Esther Egwu from United Christian Academy Ltd, Abia State represented the South East; Mrs Maryam Bukar from Petrol Talent Global Model School, Borno State represented the North East; Mr Edward Tetteh from De Grate Jewels International Academy, Abuja represented North Central, and Nuhu Nuhu from Excellent Science College, Kano, represented the North West.


Associations and unions from the Transport sector represented at the meeting include the Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers; Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners; National Commercial Tricycle and Motorcycle Owners & Riders Association; Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria; Amalgamated Commercial Tricycle & Motorcycle Owners, Repairs and Riders Association of Nigeria, and God is Good Motors (GiGM).


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

What 90Billion , you are just a fool

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*

*OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT*

*WHY WE ARE PROMOTING MODULAR REFINERIES, NEW VISION FOR NIGER DELTA – OSINBAJO*

*How to turn artisanal refiners into strategic partners in the oil-producing areas, by VP

The integration of artisanal and modular refinery operators into mainstream oil and gas sector promotes the inclusion of more local content in the industry and advance the use of home-grown technology in the refining of petroleum products, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this today in an address delivered virtually at a National Summit on the Integration of Artisanal and Modular Refinery Operations in Nigeria.

According to the Vice President, “we are confident that the integration of artisanal and modular refinery operations into the oil and gas sector will not only promote the inclusion of more local content in the industry; it will advance the use of home-grown technology in the refining of petroleum products and also curtail illegal oil activities in the Niger Delta regions.”

It will be recalled that following Mr President’s directive, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo in 2016 embarked on a tour of oil-producing communities in the Niger Delta, in a bid to address lingering issues in the region.

This was preceded by the President’s meeting with Niger Delta leaders under the aegis of Pan-Niger Delta Forum, (PANDEF) which led to the PANDEF 16-point demand to the Federal Government and was subsequently captured in the Federal Government’s 20-point agenda to develop the region.

“One of the nagging issues we were confronted with during my tour was how to deal with the proliferation of artisanal refinery and its attendant negative environmental impact. Our solution was to promote the establishment of modular refineries,” Prof. Osinbajo recollected.

Speaking on how to resolve the issue, the Vice President noted that “these artisanal refiners will be seen as investors and considered for strategic equity partnerships with technical and financial partners.

“This vision is hinged on the commitment of this present administration to develop the region and ensure that the people of the region benefit maximally from the wealth of their land. Indeed, the New Vision speaks to a progressive partnership between the federal government, state government, private sector, and the local communities.”

Explaining the Federal Government’s position on the adoption of a viable model, Prof. Osinbajo said, “the transition from artisanal refineries to modular refineries has been delayed because of the operators’ expectation that this process will be fully underwritten by Government.

“However, what this framework envisages is a private sector-led partnership with equity participation from the state government or its agencies, registered local cooperative societies and the integration of regional refinery stakeholders, with the private investor having majority equity.”

While calling on stakeholders at the summit to fashion a workable and viable blueprint that will guide and facilitate the integration of artisanal and modular refinery operators, the Vice President said the gains of a seamless integration are enormous.

“We are confident that the integration of artisanal and modular refinery operations into the oil and gas sector will curtail illegal oil activities in the Niger Delta regions.

“It will also promote the availability of petroleum products, stabilize prices, eliminate shipping costs and provide employment opportunities for the youths in the region and Nigeria in general,” Prof. Osinbajo stated.

In addition, the Vice President said “we recognize that with enough artisanal and modular refineries in the country, we should be able to conserve foreign exchange now utilized for the importation of petroleum products and promote socio-economic development.

“The resultant proliferation of employment opportunities will also have the effect of curbing youth restiveness which is largely driven by a dearth of socioeconomic opportunity. With most of the youth engaged in productive endeavours, the region will be able to turn a new page in its history.”

The summit was convened by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Niger Delta Affairs, Sen. Ita Enang. Dignitaries at the meeting include the Minister of State, Budget and National Planning, Prince Clem Agba; representatives of the Minister or Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio; Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onu; and Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva.

Other dignitaries who joined the meeting virtually include Hon. Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Hajia Zainab Ahmed, and Hon. Minister of Environment, Dr. Mahmood Abubakar.

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

16th March 2021

Nigeria shall prevail, so sure of that

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT

HEALTHCARE MAY BECOME FASTEST GROWING SECTOR IN NIGERIAN ECONOMY - OSINBAJO

Investments in top medical care and the overall healthcare sector in Nigeria is set to birth one of “the fastest growth areas in a resurgent Nigerian economy”, according to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.

Prof Osinbajo stated this today during his virtual remarks at the official unveiling of the Evercare Hospital in Lekki, Lagos.

Evercare Hospital, part of the Evercare Group, operates as an integrated healthcare delivery platform in emerging markets across Africa and South Asia, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Kenya and Nigeria. The international group has set aside a $1billion healthcare fund.

“The business case for more top quality medical care in Nigeria has always seemed quite obvious, but I think the fact that the Evercare Health Fund, (a US$ 1 billion emerging markets healthcare fund) has chosen to invest in healthcare in Nigeria, clearly confirms even to the greatest skeptics that we are seeing the birth of what may well become one of the fastest growth areas in a resurgent Nigerian economy,” Prof. Osinbajo submitted.

Speaking on the importance of having such a medical institution in Nigeria, the Vice President observed that “we must reverse the trend of outbound medical tourism” and there is the need to “attract, not just medical tourists from our neighbors in the region, but also become the place of choice for even developed countries’ medical tourists looking to jump long queues for specialized procedures at home.”

He also emphasized that the emergence of the Evercare Hospital would bring about a U-turn in the brain drain of medical personnel trained in Nigeria who are engaged in hospitals abroad because of better remuneration and better facilities.

Noting the peculiarity of the situation in Nigeria in terms of accessibility to healthcare, Prof Osinbajo pointed out that “we have by far the largest number of middle-to-low income communities and individuals in sub-Saharan Africa who require affordable, high quality healthcare.”

The Vice President expressed his optimism and excitement in the facility with “first-of-its-kind-purpose-built, 165-bed state-of-the-art international private hospital, that offers an extensive range of specialty medical and surgical services.” He also expressed his pleasure at the fact that “in addition to its local world class personnel, the hospital will leverage technology to consult with international specialists across the 29 hospitals and 16 clinics currently in its portfolio.”

According to the Vice President “we are certainly set for exciting times in the Nigerian healthcare story.”

In his own remarks, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-olu, commended the management of the hospital for their collaboration with citizens of Lagos, local and foreign investors in building a first-class edifice catering to the people.


Others present at the event were the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi; Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budgeting, Mr. Samuel Egube, Chairman of Evercare Hospital, Mr. Tosin Runsewe; Chief Executive Officer of Evercare Hospital, Mr. Rajeev Bhandari; Chief Medical Officer of Evercare Hospital, Dr. Ayo Shonibare and other dignitaries.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
11th March, 2021

*STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE*
*OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT*

*EMPOWERING WOMEN IS EXISTENTIAL FOR NIGERIA, AFRICA – OSINBAJO*

*VP advocates educating girls, strong models & affirmative action
*Equality for women is a right, not a gift
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, believes that “ensuring the education of women and empowering them is an existential issue for Nigeria and the rest of Africa”, otherwise holding women down means holding their societies down.

Prof. Osinbajo stated this Monday in a keynote address at a webinar organized by Women In Africa (WIA) in collaboration with the MacArthur Foundation, to mark the 2021 International Women’s Day.

Anchoring his contributions on the theme of the 2021 celebrations “Choose to challenge”, the Vice President noted that “a child of a mother who can read is 50% more likely to live past the age of 5. Each additional school year increases a woman earning by 20%, 2/3 less maternal deaths if mothers finish primary school.”

“If we hold down half of the productive segment of our nation on account of culture or other frankly outdated considerations, we are much poorer and much more deprived as a whole. We do ourselves a favour by ensuring social and legal equality of women,” he added.

Speaking on correcting stereotypes against women in Africa and other developing societies, the Vice President said “for many generations, women have fought these manifestations of gender inequality. Over time the struggle has been refined to the level of a right to gender equality.”

Explaining further, he said that “the notion that women and men should have the same legal, social and political rights is the public law basis for Feminism. But something has changed in the past few years.”

Highlighting the gains of improving women participation in governance and other aspects of society, the Vice President said “women are now saying that the fight for gender equality is not for women and girls alone, it is also a fight for all fair minded and just men who believe that men and women must have equal rights.”

Describing the reinvigorated campaign for gender equality as the greatest leap of development in contemporary history, Prof. Osinbajo said “the campaign is much more important in shaping the future. Men are now being challenged to stand shoulder to shoulder with women in the struggle for gender equality.”

His words: “They are learning that insisting on equal rights for women is an imperative of justice and fairness, an entitlement, a debt owed to women and girls not a gift.

The Vice President who advocated for a change not just in laws but in mindsets and conventions, added that this is the basis of the theme, calling everyone to ‘Choose To Challenge’ biases and misconceptions in favour of a more gender inclusive world.

“But I would like to suggest that the most effective challenge that can be mounted is the education of girls,” Prof. Osinbajo submitted.

“There is no question that this is the single most potent game changer in this story. Not only does it provide options for economic empowerment for women, but it also ensures that their own children will be educated, that they will not be married off too early with the attendant health and population implications.”

The Vice President then added that the idea of empowering and ensuring the education of women is receiving support at the highest level of governance in Nigeria, citing a strong call from Mr. President to governors in 2019 as a worthy example.

Prof. Osinbajo said: “the President underscored this point while speaking to governors at the (second term) inauguration of the NEC on the June 20, 2019, when he reminded them that they have the responsibility for primary and secondary education and for ensuring that primary education Is free and compulsory. Citing the relevant laws he said Section 2 of the Compulsory, Free Universal Basic Education Act provides that every Government in Nigeria shall provide free, compulsory and universal basic education for every child of primary and junior secondary school age.”

He added that the Buhari administration has in most of its programmes given priority to women and other vulnerable groups in the society.

Reeling out specific programmes that had women at the fore, he said the Social Investment Programme focused deliberately on giving women a more equal opportunities. 56% of beneficiaries of the Government Empowerment and Enterprise Programme or 1.5 million women have been empowered by the TraderMoni and MarketMoni micro credit schemes.

“Of the 500,000 beneficiaries of the Npower graduate employment scheme, over 45% of benfeciaries are female. For the Conditional Cash Transfers 96% of beneficiaries are women.

“This programme in particular has demonstrated the resilience and focus of the women who have been receiving the N5,000 monthly stipend. How they have continued to invest in their' communities and grow their money. As at December 2020, they had formed almost 35,000 savings groups in 27 States,” according to the Vice President.

Other speakers at the event include President of the MacArthur Foundation, Mr John Palfrey; CEO of AXA Africa, Hassan El-Shabrawishi; President of Women In Africa, Hafsat Abiola, who moderated the discussion, among others.


Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President
9th March 2021

Happy birthday to an Icon, the best of them all

Mimo7:
Handpicked VP

Common shut up