President Tinubu Partners with Oracle for Technological Advancements in Public Service.

President Tinubu Partners with Oracle for Technological Advancements in Public Service.                                                              By: Olamide Akinwumi 

President Bola Tinubu, in a forward-looking move to digitize the public service and enhance the efficient use of public funds, has announced a partnership with global technology leader Oracle. During a meeting with Oracle's Global Vice President, Mr. Andres Garcia Arroyo, at the State House, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of accurate and transparent data for effective public sector planning and accountability across various sectors.

The President welcomed Oracle's commitment to supporting Nigeria's civil service reform process and data management sector. He stressed the need for knowledge transfer through the establishment of academies and training institutions in the country to ensure the successful implementation of cutting-edge technology.

President Tinubu, drawing from his experience as the former Governor of Lagos State, praised Oracle's role in automating the Lagos State payroll system, which served as a model for other states across the federation. He highlighted the positive impact of technological solutions in improving accountability and expediting service delivery without compromising quality.

"In Lagos State, what we did in effective collaboration with you, has been copied across the states of the Federation. We can only build our institutions with accurate data and cutting-edge data management capabilities that are reliable and effective. We can only rely upon our human resources for excellent service delivery to Nigerians if they are well trained and ready to learn," President Tinubu stated.

President Tinubu further expressed concern about the bloated civil service payroll at the national and sub-national levels. He emphasized the importance of implementing technological controls to manage and optimize transaction processes, allowing funds to be allocated more efficiently for infrastructure development.

Each time they give me the payroll number, I get so frightened. Where am I going to get the capital to develop the infrastructure we desperately require if the payroll of 1% - 2% of the population is consuming all the revenue? I think we need a tight technological control that can check and balance all necessary control points of our transaction processes. I'm looking forward to working with Oracle because I have the belief and confidence that you can do it as you have in the past," President Tinubu explained.

Mr. Andres Garcia Arroyo, Oracle's Global Vice President, proposed a comprehensive digital transformation of federal-level administration processes. This transformation aims to achieve greater macro-economic visibility, streamline government processes for cost and time savings, and provide skills development opportunities for Nigerians.

"We have partnered with you and we know how determined you are to achieve all that you set out to achieve. This is why we are offering Nigeria a free national diagnostic of the present situation in the public service with a view to dimensioning across sectors the scale of solution required. We look forward to partnering with you again," the Oracle VP concluded.

This strategic partnership between President Tinubu and Oracle signals a significant step toward modernizing Nigeria's public service and ensuring the efficient utilization of public funds, setting the stage for a more accountable and technologically advanced government.

Lagos commissioners: Sanwo-Olu drops five names in new list.

Lagos commissioners: Sanwo-Olu drops five names in new list.

In Pic: Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Five names were dropped in the new list of commissioners-nominees sent by Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to the House of Assembly.

The affected nominees are Folashade Adefisayo (Education), Solape Hammond (SDG), Aramide Adeyoye (Works and Infrastructure), Lekan Fatodu, and Rotimi Ogunwuyi.

They were replaced by six new names – Afolabi Tajudeen, Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, Tolani Sule-Akibu, Yekini Agbaje, Iyabode Ayoola, and Sola Giwa.

Clerk of the House of Assembly, Olalekan Onafeko, read the governor’s letter during plenary yesterday.

The speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, thus directed the screening committee, led by the Chief Whip, Fatai Mojeed, to reconvene and start screening the nominees on Tuesday, September 5.

The committee is to report back to the House on Thursday.

Epetedo indigenes seek review of cabinet list

Sanwo-Olu advocates multi-sectoral partnerships for development

The governor’s letter reads: “After careful consideration of the 17 names that were rejected, I have decided to represent a list of nominees which includes a balanced selection of previously presented and new individuals. This list represents a broad political spectrum and diverse backgrounds reflective of the rich diversity of our lovely state. I am confident these new nominees would bring fresh ideas that would help the growth and progress of Lagos.”

Other names on the list are former commissioners Gbenga Omotoso (Information and Strategy); Prof. Akin Abayomi (Health); Olalere Odusote (Energy); Cecila Dada (Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation); Sam Egube (Economic Planning and Budget); as well as Folashade Ambrose-Medem, Yomi Olorunyomi, Rotimi Fashola, Mosopefolu George, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, Mrs. Barakat Bakare, and Olumide Oluyinka.

Meanwhile, the House of Assembly has resolved to review the performance of the 2023 budget in preparation for the presentation of the 2024 budget estimate by Governor Sanwo-Olu. The House approved N1.768 trillion for the Year 2023.

Obasa urged the committee for the budget review, headed by Sa’ad Olumo, to ensure a proper review and make its report available to the House.

President Mnangagwa Takes Oath for Second Term Amidst Election Controversy.

President Mnangagwa Takes Oath for Second Term Amidst Election Controversy.

In Pic: President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Zimbabwe celebrated the inauguration of President Emmerson Mnangagwa's second term today with a renewed sense of hope for democratic progress. Despite concerns raised by international observers regarding the fairness of the August elections, the nation's leader emphasized Zimbabwe's commitment to democracy during the ceremony held at the National Sports Stadium in Harare.

President Mnangagwa, 80, acknowledged the challenges and controversies surrounding the election but expressed his determination to uphold the country's constitution and the rule of law throughout his second term. He vowed to work tirelessly to address the concerns raised by various organizations and opposition parties.

The recent election was not without its controversies, as international observers cited issues such as voter intimidation, electoral roll falsification, and the composition of the electoral commission. The main opposition party also contested the results, alleging voter suppression and abuse.

According to the official results from the electoral commission, President Mnangagwa secured 53 percent of the votes cast, while Nelson Chamisa of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) party, the leading opposition candidate, received 44 percent. Furthermore, President Mnangagwa's governing Zanu-PF party achieved a solid majority in parliament.

Zimbabwe has faced decades of economic turmoil, marked by soaring inflation and high unemployment rates. This inauguration signifies an opportunity for the country to address its pressing issues and work towards a brighter future.

Zimbabwe's journey towards democracy has been a complex one, marked by historical challenges and transitions. The nation, once a British colony, gained independence in 1980 under the governance of the Zanu-PF party. It has since embarked on a path towards democratic reform, with today's inauguration signaling another step in that direction.

As Zimbabwe looks ahead to its future, the world watches with hope that this second term will bring about meaningful reforms, economic stability, and strengthened democratic institutions. President Mnangagwa's commitment to upholding the rule of law and the country's constitution is a positive sign that Zimbabwe is on the path to becoming a true democracy with maturity.

Gabon's General Brice Oligui Nguema Sworn in as Interim President, Promising Free and Transparent Elections.

Gabon's General Brice Oligui Nguema Sworn in as Interim President, Promising Free and Transparent Elections.

General Brice Oligui Nguema Interim President of Gabon.

In a historic turn of events, General Brice Oligui Nguema, the leader of the recent coup that brought an end to Gabon's 55-year-long dynasty, was sworn in as the interim president on Monday. This marks a significant shift in the nation's political landscape.

General Oligui, who commands the elite Republican Guard, seized power last week, effectively toppling President Ali Bongo Ondimba, whose family had held the reins of power since 1967. Despite this dramatic change, Oligui has made a firm commitment to preserving Gabon's republican regime and the achievements of its democracy.

One of his key promises is to oversee the organization of "free and transparent elections" following an unspecified transitional period. Furthermore, he has pledged to grant amnesty to "prisoners of conscience," a move aimed at promoting national unity and reconciliation.

However, it's important to note that the coup has faced condemnation from Western countries and international organizations, primarily due to concerns over election irregularities. The global community will be closely monitoring the developments in Gabon as the nation navigates this transition.

While Gabon's political landscape has undergone a dramatic change, the promise of free and fair elections and amnesty for those unjustly detained offers hope for a more inclusive and democratic future for the country.

BEDC Set To Restore Light To Ekiti LGAs After 10 Years Of Blackout.

BEDC Set To Restore Light To Ekiti LGAs After 10 Years Of Blackout.

 The Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) has pledged to end a decade-long power outage by commencing the supply of electricity to Ayekire LCDA and Ekiti East Local Government Areas (LGAs). This significant development emerged from a tripartite meeting, orchestrated by the Ekiti State Government, bringing together representatives of BEDC and the affected communities.

Ekiti State’s Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Prof Bolaji Aluko, disclosed that the meeting successfully ironed out lingering issues, paving the way for the eventual reconnection of the area to the national grid.

The commissioner emphasized that the government's efforts to restore electricity were in line with Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s campaign promises, underscoring the current administration's unwavering commitment to the welfare of its citizens.

A communiqué issued at the conclusion of the meeting underscored the commitment of all stakeholders to the restoration of electricity in the affected areas. It also lauded Governor Oyebanji for his relentless efforts to alleviate the prolonged darkness that plagued the region.

The meeting reached a consensus on several key points, including the provision of post-paid meters, the formation of a team to conduct a consumer census and audit committee, and the settlement of electricity bills following house enumeration in the affected areas.

While reaffirming Governor Oyebanji's determination to prevent any evasion of utility bill payments, the communiqué urged BEDC to consider addressing the longstanding debts owed by the communities.

Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers in the affected communities, Oba G.S.O. Ajayi, the Owaateju of Iro Ayeteju, expressed gratitude to the state government for its endeavors to restore electricity to the area.

Mrs. Moyo Akin Afuye, the Regional Head of Benin Electricity Distribution Company, affirmed BEDC’s readiness to collaborate with all stakeholders to enhance the quality of life in the region.

The impending restoration of electricity brings renewed hope to Ayekire LCDA and Ekiti East LGA residents, marking the end of a prolonged era of darkness that has hindered progress and development in the area.

Rivers government shuts down AIT, Raypower operations.

Rivers government shuts down AIT, Raypower operations.

Rivers State Government has shut down the Africa Independent Television, AIT, and Raypower FM operations in Port Harcourt.

The media organization on its official X on Sunday, announced that the State Government shut down its operations through contracted telecommunications engineers accompanied by armed security operatives.

“The contractors disconnected the wave guard from the antenna on the mast while riggers were seen dismantling the mast.

“Also, bulldozers were deployed to demolish the Transmitter Complex at DAAR Communications PLC Broadcast Centre,” it said.

The telecommunications’ contractor’s official told the organization that they were working on a directive from above to commence demolition on Sunday.

Recall that the State government had in March given 48-hours quit notice to DAAR Communication Plc, stating that the area has been mapped out for GRA phase 5 Ozuoba

Sanwo-Olu flags off Lagos Blue rail operations from Marina to Mile 2.

Sanwo-Olu flags off Lagos Blue rail operations from Marina to Mile 2.

Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has flagged off the commercial operations of Blue Line Rail in the state.

The Nation reports the railway system was commissioned in January 2023 by former President Muhammadu Buhari. 

The Blue Line Rail will move from Marina to Mile 2. 

Sanwo-Olu was the first passenger at the Marina station. He was joined by other dignitaries to test-run the commerical operations.

The Managing Director, Lagos State Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, Mrs Abimbola Akinajo said from Tuesday, September 5, partial passenger operations will start from 6:30am to 10am, for morning peak; and for afternoon peak, from 4pm to 9:30pm.

These operations, according to Akinajo, will start with 12 trips for two weeks, which will later be increased up to 76 trips per day.