President Tinubu Sets High Standards for Ministers: Underperformance Unacceptable.

President Tinubu Sets High Standards for Ministers: Underperformance Unacceptable.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE:

At the inaugural meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Monday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu charged ministers to look beyond titles and offices and stay focused on the day-to-day task of their individual and collective contributions to the transformation of the economy for the upliftment of Nigerian households.

Held at the Council Chambers of the State House in Abuja, the President told the new ministers that the hopes and aspirations of 200 million fellow Nigerians rested on their daily actions and that he will relentlessly provide the focused leadership required to stop failure in its tracks so that sustainable progress can be achieved. 

“We shall evolve a homegrown re-engineering of our finances, a reimagined stewardship of our resources, and we will let the economy work for the people of this country. There are so many things we can and will do. Yes, some cynics will say it is impossible. But in your own dictionary of service, everything is possible, and it must be possible," the President exclaimed.

Emphasizing that anyone thinking that appointments are fixed term appointments are mistaken, the President expressed confidence that the carefully selected cabinet members know that his government is a new one with a new approach and a new mandate to deliver for Nigeria without any lamentation or excuses.

"We have the talent. We have the level of intellectual capacity required to turn this country around. We will make sure that the country is on the right path to succeed on behalf of more than 200 million Nigerians who rely on us," the President affirmed.

President Tinubu noted that the country would rely on the experience, skill, intellect and networking of those that had been appointed to make headway in the challenging times, and failure would not be explained away under his watch.

“You and I know that expectations are high, and these are tough times. We must work hard and move ourselves to create a buoyant economy that will serve Nigeria. We have an employment rate that is unacceptable, and we are facing threats from climate change. In order to turn things around, you have been selected to perform your utmost best. Our policy implementation will reform the economy, ensure inclusive growth, and strengthen security for peace and prosperity. Without security, there can be no investment," the President said.

Humbled by the mandate God had given to him, the President reminded his cabinet that he is only one man and that their innovative thinking to solve problems will shape his leadership as a President who listens.

"It is in your hands now. I am ready to listen and to cooperate. I am ready even to be corrected. Only God is perfect. You have been asked to fetch water from a dry well. The challenges are great, but we will deliver for Nigerians. I am happy to be the captain of this vehicle."

"It is a great commitment that you have made to the country. Since your inauguration as a minister, you have become a servant for the people, serving all of the people, all of the time," President Tinubu concluded.

Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

August 28, 2023

President Tinubu Takes Proactive Measures as Cameroon's Lagdo Dam Release Raises Flood Concerns.

President Tinubu Takes Proactive Measures as Cameroon's Lagdo Dam Release Raises Flood Concerns.

....Nigeria sets up situation room and initiates Flood emergency preparedness response plan.

The Federal Government on Monday night confirmed that Cameroonian authorities have released water from Lagdo dam.

The Federal Government also said Nigerians will begin to feel the impact of the opened dams in the next seven days.

Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu stated these during a briefing which President Bola Tinubu directed after the first Federal Executive Council meeting that the ministers should collaborate and proper solutions to prevent mitigate and reduce the negative effect of flooding in affected states.

To ensure proper coordination, the Minister said her ministry with others ministries will be working with the office of the Vice President and the Nigeria Governors Forum to ensure proper mitigation of the likely impact of the floods.

The Minister urged State Governments and communities that may be affected by the flood to begin immediate evacuation of their family members and livestocks to higher plain areas.

She also hinted that the federal government and state Government will provide temporary shelter and other relief items to those that may be affected.

She said: “We are gathered on the instance of the President following a presentation which I made at the FEC today on the opening of the Cameroon Lagdo dam which has already been opened as we speak and it is expected that within the next seven days, we will begin to see the effect of that dam opening in Nigeria.

“Flood is gradually becoming a yearly or seasonal occurrence in Nigeria which has led to loss of lives and properties in large numbers.

“We as a government are always interested in preventing, mitigating and proffering solution including recovery plans for flood and its consequences.

“Presently now, we have a direct task by Mr. president to ensure proper preparedness for the consequences of the dam which has been opened in Cameroon and that is why this coordination meeting and situation room is being set up tonight to help Nigeria adequately respond to it.

“A couple of States have been implicated and there have been ongoing engagements by NEMA with the state government but this will be carried out at higher level between the ministers, and the state government; members of the Nigeria governors forum to ensure that they are part of the preparedness”.

On what is expected of states and communities that may be affected, Dr. Edu said: “One of the things the states and communities should do and even individuals is to begin to ensure that drainages are cleared and cleaned and whatever construction we have done on the drainages are quickly removed.

“Sensitization must also begin from the federal to the states, local government and communities. Everyone must be part of this engagement and sensitization.

“Persons and areas that will be affected by the flood must at this point begin to move to higher plains where their lives are protected. If they have livestock to move, they need to do that as soon as possible.”

“For the state governments, she said: “State governments must stand up to the responsibilities and task of involuntary evacuation of persons that will be affected by the flood. It is thinkable to lose properties but it is unthinkable and unacceptable to lose lives and that is what we want to avoid.

“Other measures would be put in place by the governments at all levels to ensure that we can prevent, mitigate and recover from whatever the consequences of this dam opening.”

On the humanitarian aspect and what the ministry intends to do, the minister said: “We know this situations pushes people down the poverty line, we will be working with other ministries and governmnets to ensure that humanitarian services including provision of food and other items that will be necessary are provided.

“Shelters, we are going to work with governments to provide temporary shelter for those that will be affected. We will offer support in terms of health, livelihood for recovery for those people that are moving”.

Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev said aside opening the dam, there was need for attitudinal change by Nigerians.

He also said the government was considering the construction of dams.

He tasked the media to continue the sensitization process.

“We are looking at construction of dams and dredging of rivers. Recommenadations will be made available as we move forward. We will enlighten Nigerians on the level we are soon.

“Apart from the opening of the dam, we have other practices as Nigerians that has to be corrected. We are working as government under President Tinubu for the good of Nigerians. At our end, we are trying to find everlasting solution to flooding which affects humans lives and destroys properties.

“Our short term measure has started and we have been warned already that the dam is opened and at this point in time, it is under control but looking at climate condition and as rains continue to fall and the level of water increases in our rivers, flooding may definitely set in.

“We call on Nigerians at all levels to put in their best which includes clearing drainages, keeping their environment clean and government will do its part for total eradication of flooding”.

Minister of State, Water Resources and Sanitation, Bello Goronyo said there was no need to panic.

He said: “As it is today, there is no much to fear or panic but we are taking proactive measures to ensure that such devasting effect does not occur in the soil of Nigeria. We will ensure the protection of lives and properties of Nigerians.

“We are assuring Nigerians that we will do everything possible with the support of the President to ensure that we take necessary steps to control this menace.

“We call on Nigerians in the danger zone to vacate and state government should come in to ensure that such people living in danger areas are evacuated immediately.”

Also speaking, the Minister of Environment, Dr. Ishaq Salako said his ministry was working to ensure that Nigerians are alerted hourly on the flood situations.

He said: “Flood early warning that is domiciled with my ministry is on and working and we are issuing hourly warning alerts on floods not only with respects to river Benue but in most part of the country including River Niger. We are warning people and to let them know the level of water in their area and level of vulnerability to flood.

“We are moving a little ahead to get correspondents covering environments to get the alerts directly. A platform is being created where the reporters will get the alerts without waiting for ministry officials to interface with them.

“From what we have seen today, it shows clearly that the administration of President Tinubu is strong on collaboration an going forward, we are going to see more collaboration. The president told us today that we are a team and he is just the captain of that team. We will ensure that in coming years, flood is minimized to the barest minimum.”Flood: Cameroon opens Lagdo dam

Unity, Loyalty, and Respect for Constituted Authorities: Propelling Nigeria's Progress and Development.

Unity, Loyalty, and Respect for Constituted Authorities: Propelling Nigeria's Progress and Development.
By: Comr. Olamide Akinwumi James.

In the pursuit of progress and development, unity, loyalty, and respect for constituted authorities play pivotal roles. Nigeria, a nation rich in diversity and potential, stands to benefit immensely from these principles. As citizens come together with a shared sense of purpose and a commitment to upholding their government's authority, the stage is set for progress and greater development. This article explores the significance of unity, loyalty, and respect for constituted authorities in driving Nigeria's progress and facilitating larger developmental strides.

Unity is the cornerstone of any prosperous society. Nigeria, with its multitude of ethnicities, cultures, and religions, possesses a unique strength in its diversity. When citizens embrace their shared identity as Nigerians and transcend divisive lines, a collective force is unleashed. Unity fosters a sense of belonging, creating an environment where progress becomes a shared aspiration.

Loyalty to one's country is an unwavering commitment that goes beyond personal interests. Citizens who prioritize the nation's well-being above personal gain contribute significantly to its progress. Loyalty is reflected in abiding by laws, promoting national interests, and supporting policies that uplift the nation. When citizens are loyal, they actively participate in shaping the country's trajectory, ensuring its growth and development.

Respect for constituted authorities is crucial for maintaining order and effective governance. Governments derive their legitimacy from the people, and respect for authority maintains the social contract that binds citizens and the state. When authorities are respected, they can focus on creating policies that address challenges and drive development. A harmonious relationship between citizens and authorities enables the implementation of progressive initiatives.

Governments hold the responsibility of facilitating progress and development by creating an enabling environment. Policies that promote economic growth, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare are crucial components of development. When citizens respect the authority of the government, they actively participate in democratic processes and provide valuable feedback, allowing the government to make informed decisions that benefit society as a whole.

The Synergy of Unity, Loyalty, and Respect:
Unity, loyalty, and respect for constituted authorities are interconnected concepts that amplify each other's impact. When citizens unite, their loyalty to the nation strengthens, and their respect for authorities deepens. Conversely, a government that governs with transparency, fairness, and accountability inspires greater loyalty and respect from its citizens. This synergy creates a positive feedback loop, driving Nigeria's progress and development to new heights.

Achieving unity, loyalty, and respect for constituted authorities is not without challenges. Socioeconomic disparities, cultural differences, and historical grievances can impede progress. However, open dialogue, inclusive policies, and equitable resource allocation can address these challenges. Government efforts to engage citizens, prioritize social justice, and provide equal opportunities can bridge gaps and foster unity.

In Conclusion, as Nigerians, we hold the keys to our nation's progress and development. Unity, loyalty, and respect for constituted authorities are not just lofty ideals; they are practical principles that can lead us toward a brighter future. By fostering a sense of belonging and endeavoring to live in peace with one another, we can overcome challenges, drive economic growth, and position Nigeria as a beacon of hope and prosperity on the African continent. It is through our collective efforts that we can build the Nigeria we envision—one that stands as a model of unity, progress, and development for generations to come.

May Nigeria continue to thrive and prosper. 🇳🇬

Nigerians Abroad: Victor Osimhen Receives Paolo Rossi Award, Scores 100th Club Career Goals.

Nigerians Abroad: Victor Osimhen Receives Paolo Rossi Award, Scores 100th Club Career Goals.

Nigerian Victor Osimhen has been honoured with Paolo Rossi award which is meant for league highest goal scorer.

Victor Osimhen last season became the first African player to emerge as the highest goal scorer in the Italian league after notching 26 goals.

His goals were pivotal to Napoli winning first scudetto since 1990.

Osimhen was also named the best striker in Italy last season and is tipped to be crowned as the 2023 African player of the year.

After scoring twice against Frosinone last week, Victor Osimhen bagged his third goal of the season by scoring the opener in the Napoli’s 2-0 win over visitors Sassuolo.

He fired home the opener from the spot in the sixteenth minutes to give Napoli the lead.

Osimhen has now scored 100 club career goals.

Spanish prosecutors open investigation into Rubiales kiss.

Spanish prosecutors open investigation into Rubiales kiss.

Spain’s top criminal court has opened a preliminary investigation into the country’s football federation president Luis Rubiales after he kissed player Jenni Hermoso on the lips.

The prosecutors are looking into whether the incident amounts to a crime of sexual assault.

Rubiales, 46, has been widely criticised after the incident following Spain’s Women’s World Cup final win.

Hermoso, 33, said the kiss was not consensual.

Rubiales was suspended on Saturday by world football’s governing body Fifa.

The previous day, Rubiales had insisted he would not resign.

The court said it was opening the investigation in light of the “unequivocal nature” of Hermoso’s statements, saying it was necessary “to determine their legal significance”.

“Given the public statements made by Jennifer Hermoso, the sexual act she was subjected to by Luis Rubiales was not consensual,” a statement said.

Legal experts will also contact the player “to offer her the option of legal action, giving her the chance to contact National Court prosecutors within 15 days for information about her rights as a victim of an alleged sexual assault should she wish to file a complaint”.

It added: “In order to proceed with a case for sexual assault, harassment or sexual abuse, it will be necessary for the injured party or their legal representative to file suit, or the public prosecutors’ office.”

The Spanish government has asked for Spain’s Sports Tribunal (TAD) to suspend him – a request which will be discussed at a TAD meeting on Monday.

The Spanish football federation (RFEF) has also called regional federations to an “extraordinary and urgent” meeting on Monday “to evaluate the situation in which the federation finds itself”.

When Fifa announced Rubiales had been suspended on Saturday, it ordered him, the RFEF and its officials and employees not to attempt to contact Hermoso, who the RFEF had threatened with legal action earlier that day.

Agency Reporter

National Sports Festival 2024: organizers begin search for ceremonies teamproduce show-stopping Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the next National Sports Festival.

National Sports Festival 2024: organizers begin search for ceremonies team

produce show-stopping Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the next National Sports Festival.

This follows the inauguration of the Local Organizing Committee for the Games by Governor Dapo Abiodun last month.

“Ogun State is not just the educational capital, we’re also the creative capital of Nigeria and there’ll be so much local talent and inspiration for our ceremonies production team to draw upon to tell the Ogun State story,” Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, Chair of the Protocol and Ceremonial sub-committee said. “An Expression of Interest is the first phase in recruiting the production team."

The 2024 Games are the second to be hosted in Ogun State and organizers are challenging creative industries to use the tender as “an opportunity to think differently.” “Ogun is a trailblazer in all respects and that’s what I want the nation to see during our opening and closing ceremonies,” Sarafa-Yusuf added.

Organizers stated that the ceremonies team will be involved with everything from bringing up creative ideas and collaborating with people, to overseeing auditions with local artists and managing the technical aspects of the production.

“Our vision is that Gateway Games 2024 will honour the different cultures of the predominant ethnic groups in Ogun State, recognize their representatives in formal protocols, and share the history and contemporary stories of our state. “

Mrs. Sarafa-Yusuf who, for many years, as Globacom’s Head of Sponsorships spearheaded the telecoms company’s organization of the Glo-CAF Awards and the Glo-Lagos Marathon added: “We want experts because our athletes and performers deserve ceremonies that run like clockwork- truly world class events. We want well scripted, seamlessly executed and interactive ceremonies. This is also a creative exercise, so we want the team that can really get to the heart and soul of the Gateway State; share its stories and showcase our galaxy of stars”

The Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta is set to be the venue for both the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the 2024 National Sports Festival.

Ogun State also hosted the National Sports Festival in 2006; an endeavour which was generally regarded as one of the best ever organized in Nigeria.

The Nation 

PSC retires four deputy inspectors general Police.

PSC retires four deputy inspectors general

Police.

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has retired Deputy Inspectors General of Police (DIGs) Moses Jitiboh, Mohammed Dan-Mallam, Adeyinka Adeleke, and Hafiz Inuwa.

The compulsory retirement may not be unconnected with the fact that the four DIGs were senior to incumbent Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun.

A statement yesterday in Abuja by the PSC spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani, reads: “The Police Service Commission, in exercise of its statutory powers pursuant to the Third Schedule, Part 1 M, paragraph A&B of the 1999 Constitution, reinforced with Section 6 of the commission’s (Establishment) Act 2001, paragraphs a, c, d, e, &f, has compulsorily retired four Deputy Inspectors General of Police. The affected DIGs are: Dan-Mallam Mohammed, Moses Ambakina Jitiboh, Hafiz Mohammed Inuwa and Adeleke Adeyinka Bode.

“In the wake of the appointment of the acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun on June 19, 2023 by Mr. President, the commission had expected, in consonance with the revered tradition of discipline and regimented culture of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), that those DIGs, who were seniors in rank prior to his (Egbetokun’s) elevation, would voluntarily apply for retirement or elect to leave the Force.

“The commission, having waited for ample time with no such application from any of them, took the decision to compulsorily retire them in order to uphold discipline, which is the bedrock of the Force, and to discourage status reversal, which is inherently inimical to the exercise of authority by the Inspector General.

“Accordingly, the former DIGs have been mandated to immediately proceed on compulsory retirement with effect from Friday, August 25, 2023…

“The commission also approved the appointment of four Assistant Inspectors General of Police (AIGs) to the rank of Deputy Inspectors General of Police (DIGs), which would be subject to ratification by the Board of the Commission, to replace the retired DIGs.

“The newly appointed DIGs, who are without Pending Disciplinary Matters and/or without any serious medical conditions and health impairments, were drawn from the same respective geo-political regions of the retired ones.

“They are: DIGs Ibrahim Sani Ka’oje, Daniel Sokari–Pedro, Ayuba Ekpeji, and Usman Nagogo.”

“While congratulating them for their elevation to the enviable rank of DIGs, the commission hopes that their appointment will add value and greater vigour to the efforts of the Nigeria Police in delivering on its mandate.”

The Nation.