Path to Resolution: Tinubu Heads to Abu Dhabi for Visa Ban Negotiations.

Path to Resolution: Tinubu Heads to Abu Dhabi for Visa Ban Negotiations.

President Bola Tinubu left New Delhi, India early Sunday morning for Abu Dhabi to meet with the President of United Arab Emirates and other senior government officials to resolve the lingering diplomatic row between Nigeria and that country over visa ban.

UAE authorities banned Nigerians from visiting their country last year October following many reported cases of violent crimes said to involve Nigerians.

The visa restriction is also not unconnected with trapped cash of Emirates Airline which is put at over $300million according to aviation industry sources.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has not been able to meet the demands of many foreign Airlines to repatriate funds due to foreign exchange crisis Nigeria has been facing in the last couple of years. 

The CBN is reported to have over $8billion backlogs of foreign exchange commitments to clear which the Acting CBN Governor, Mr. Folashodun Shonubi, has now promised to clear within the next one month.

Diplomatic sources told WesternPost that the government of UAE imposed visa ban on Nigerians, a gesture Nigerian government immediately reciprocated under the principle of reciprocity in diplomatic relation, to force the hands of the Federal Government of Nigeria to get CBN to release the money of Emirates Airline.

The ban has affected bilateral relationship between the two countries and people to people economic and cultural engagements.

Tinubu recently promised to personally intervene in the rift and reach a resolution when he accepted the Letter of Credence of the new UAE Ambassador to Nigeria.

National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, according to our sources, has been working behind the scene to ensure the two countries resolve the row for normal relationship to be restored.

Tinubu after the stop in Abu Dhabi is expected to return to Abuja Monday night or early Tuesday morning after which he will travel by weekend for the United Nations General Assembly in New York where he will deliver Nigeria’s address and hold a sideline bilateral meeting with President Joe Biden alongside other engagements already lined up for him.

Nigeria's President Tinubu Champions Global Unity and Inclusion at G-20 Summit.

Nigeria's President Tinubu Champions Global Unity and Inclusion at G-20 Summit.

In a remarkable address to world leaders at the 18th G-20 Leaders' Summit in New Delhi, India, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria emphasized the critical role his country could play within the G-20, stressing that Nigeria's strategic importance as Africa's largest economy and democracy makes it a vital contributor to shaping a more equitable world.

President Tinubu passionately expressed, "Nigeria is poised, able, and willing to be a major player in this family of the G-20 and in shaping a new world, without whom, the family will remain incomplete."

This compelling message was conveyed by Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, in a statement titled 'President Tinubu to G-20 leaders: As Africa’s largest market, economy and democracy, Nigeria is ready to play a vital role in G-20.'

Acknowledging the G-20's essential role in shaping a rules-based world order that promotes shared prosperity and security, Tinubu emphasized the international nature of today's pressing issues, asserting that they "cannot be addressed without multilateral cooperation."

In a resounding call for unity, cooperation, and partnerships among diverse regions, President Tinubu emphasized that these are the pathways to a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future for the world.

Tinubu stated, "A world that lives as one family, but is divided by staggering income inequalities and uneven access to basic social goods by the vast majority of our people cannot result in a peaceful and secure world where shared prosperity is achieved."

He underscored the importance of collectively designing, owning, and managing global governance structures, aligning with the true spirit of unity, mutual respect, and sustainable development.

President Tinubu congratulated India for hosting the historic summit and praised the country for its remarkable achievement of successfully landing on the moon under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He hailed this accomplishment as an inspiration to all developing countries of the Global South.

Furthermore, Tinubu welcomed the African Union's inclusion in the G-20, seeing it as an opportunity for future membership that reflects the balance of power and inclusiveness of humanity as one global family.

President Tinubu called for greater solidarity among nations, urging advanced economies to support disadvantaged regions in the Global South and promote climate justice. He emphasized the need to strengthen international frameworks based on justice, equity, and fairness for resource mobilization and governance.

Tinubu concluded with a powerful message, appealing to the Global North, advanced economies, and multilateral institutions to mobilize resources where needed most in the disadvantaged Global South. He highlighted that such efforts would build a society founded on tolerance, mutual respect, diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation, rather than competition and division rooted in inflexible ideologies.

President Tinubu's visionary address at the G-20 Summit resonated as a call for global unity and collaboration in shaping a more equitable and prosperous world for all.

Governor Akeredolu Signs LCDA Bill Into Law.

Governor Akeredolu Signs LCDA Bill Into Law.

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Aketi, SAN, CON, has assented to the bill creating 33 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the state.

The bill was presented to the Governor for assent by the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oladiji Landmark Olamide, during a brief ceremony.

The Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Prince Abayomi Babatunde Akinruntan ; Majority Leader, Hon.  Oluwole Emmanuel Ogunmolasuyi ; and the Parliamentary Secretary, Hon. Otunba Moyinolorun Ogunwumiju  were also present. 

With the Governor's assent, the bill, which had already been passed by the state House of Assembly, now possesses the legal backing for the creation of the LCDAs in Ondo State.

The establishment of these LCDAs marks a substantial step towards fulfilling Governor Akeredolu's campaign promises and addressing the aspirations of the people for enhanced grassroots development.

Moreover, this initiative underscores Governor Akeredolu's unwavering commitment to improving public service delivery, as it aims at bringing governance closer to the people, ultimately resulting in more responsive and efficient services.

Governor Akeredolu remains dedicated to delivering impactful projects and innovative initiatives, just as he is poised to redouble his efforts in advancing the development of the Sunshine State.

Hon. Fambegbe Extends Heartfelt Welcome to Governor Akeredolu Upon His Return from Medical Leave.

Hon. Fambegbe Extends Heartfelt Welcome to Governor Akeredolu Upon His Return from Medical Leave.

In a heartwarming display of unity and solidarity, Governor Akeredolu has returned to Ondo State following his medical leave to an exuberant reception from the people he serves. The Governor's homecoming was punctuated by an overwhelming outpouring of gratitude for his recovery and fervent well-wishes for his continuous good health and successful leadership of the state.

Prominent Ondo State political figure, Hon. Fambegbe Olakunle Famola, conveyed sincere greetings and goodwill on behalf of the entire state, expressing heartfelt thanks to God for the Governor's faithfulness and offering prayers for his swift and complete recovery.

In Pic: Hon. Fambegbe Olakunle Famola.

The Governor's temporary absence had left a noticeable void in the state's leadership, but his return has rekindled optimism and enthusiasm among its citizens. Regardless of their political affiliations, residents from all walks of life united to welcome their leader back, showcasing an inspiring spirit of togetherness and solidarity.

Hon. Fambegbe Olakunle went on to describe Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, as a dedicated and committed leader who always places the interests of the state first. He emphasized, "Your leadership is unparalleled, and your devotion to our state is commendable. Ondo State is truly blessed to have you as our leader."

His Excellency Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, Executive Governor of Ondo State. 

Governor Akeredolu, in response to the warm welcome, expressed profound gratitude to the people of Ondo State for their unwavering support and prayers during his absence. He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the state's progress and the well-being of its citizens, pledging to redouble his efforts in fulfilling his duties as their elected leader.

His Excellency Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, Executive Governor of Ondo State. 

As Governor Akeredolu resumes his official duties, Ondo State eagerly anticipates a future marked by sustained progress and development under his steadfast leadership. The remarkable show of solidarity and support during his return serves as a poignant reminder of the indomitable spirit of the people of Ondo State as they confront challenges and work towards a brighter tomorrow.

Security: Oyebanji presents APCs, operational Vehicles, gadgets to Ekiti Police.

Security: Oyebanji presents APCs, operational Vehicles, gadgets to Ekiti Police.

In a bid to improve and strengthen security architecture of the state, Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has donated two Armoured Personnel Carriers, ten operational Vehicles and other security equipment and gadgets to the State Command of the Nigeria Police.

The gesture, according to the Governor is geared towards supporting the police to improve its operations and ensure a safer and more peaceful environment in the state.

Presenting the vehicles and equipment on Friday at the Fajuyi Pavilion in Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji said the vehicles were meant to assist the activities of the command and boost the morale of its officers and men, adding that the bedrock of good governance is peace and security without which no development is possible.

The Governor noted that the security challenges facing the nation were enormous and urged the State Command to be proactive and engage more in intelligence-gathering and community policing rather than allowing criminals to perpetrate their heinous crime before rising to the situation.

Oyebanji used the opportunity to commend men of the command for maintaining peaceful and safe atmosphere in the state with the assurance that his administration would continue to support all security outfits in the state to enable them function effectively and efficiently.

He said his administration would not only overhaul and rejig the security architecture of the state but will also do everything within its capacity to provide necessary logistics and all they needed to function effectively and ensure that criminals were not allowed safe abode in the state.

According to Governor Oyebanji,“As we all know, the bedrock of good governance is peace and security without which no development is possible. It is in the realization of this that we have paid a lot of attention to the security of lives and properties in the state. Aside from isolated cases of kidnapping incidences reported in recent time, the state has been relatively peaceful and remained one of the most secured states in the country.

“In spite of this exciting records of peaceful atmosphere, we recognized the enormous works that still need to be done to better enhance the security of lives and properties in the Nigeria state. We will therefore continue to evaluate security situation of the state and respond accordingly, more than ever, we are committed to the welfare and increased capacity of the security agencies to respond to security challenges.

“It is in fulfilment of this commitment that we have procured these equipment with the aim of strengthening security architecture to be able to respond more assuredly to any security challenge within the state. It is therefore my honour to present the following items to Ekiti state Police Command as the first tranche of our support to the command.”

The donation included ten units of patrol vehicles, two Armoured Personnel Carriers, 50 units of Helmet level 3a, 50 bullet proof vests level 4, 80 pairs of tactical boots, and 80 pieces of batons.

The Governor implored the police to make judicious and maximum use of the equipment and ensure that the vehicles are properly maintained. He also  challenged them to work assiduously in developing capacity to combat kidnapping, burglary and other violent crimes that still occur in the state.

Oyebanji said a similar gesture will be extended to other security outfits in the state, stressing that the Friday presentation of vehicles was the first in the series of other plans to support and elevate operations of security agencies in the state.

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (rtd.) commended the Governor for all his efforts geared towards enhancing and ensuring security of lives and properties in the state.

The General lauded the high level of synergy among all the security outfits in the state adding that the new equipment would facilitate quick response to crimes and all forms of criminality in the state.

In his response shortly after receiving the vehicles and equipment, the Commissioner for Police in the State, Dare Ogundare said the equipment would allow the police respond effectively and promptly to distress calls by citizens to security situations.

The Police Chief also solicited government support in fixing various unserviceable vehicles owned by the Command that could be used to further support the force for adequate policing of the state.

Present at the brief event were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; Members of the State House of Assembly; members of the State Executive Council; the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro and Head of Service, Mr Sunday Komolafe. Officers and men of the Command were also in attendance at the event.

Morocco 🇲🇦 Earthquake: President Tinubu Send Condolences To The King Of Morocco.

Morocco 🇲🇦 Earthquake: President Tinubu Send Condolences To The King Of Morocco.

President Bola Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to King Mohammed VI of Morocco following Saturday's devastating earthquake in his homeland, which claimed many lives. 

The President commiserates with all families who lost loved ones and all those otherwise affected by this tragedy, while wishing a full and swift recovery to those who were injured. 

President Tinubu assures the government and people of Morocco that the heartfelt prayers and thoughts of Nigerians are with them during this difficult moment of tragedy.

"In the face of this adversity, Nigeria will continue to stand in solidarity with Morocco as they recover, rebuild and come out stronger than ever from this unfortunate event," the President assured.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President 

(Media & Publicity)

September 9, 2023

Nigerian President Tinubu Calls on G-20 Leaders to Recognize Africa's Largest Market and Economy as Key Player.

Nigerian President Tinubu Calls on G-20 Leaders to Recognize Africa's Largest Market and Economy as Key Player.

President Bola Tinubu, on Saturday in New Delhi, India, expressed Nigeria's commitment to play a major role within the G-20 and contribute to shaping a more equitable world.

Addressing world leaders at the 18th G-20 Leaders' Summit, the Nigerian leader called for global unity and cooperation in tackling pressing challenges, fostering inclusiveness, and establishing a fairer world order. 

While acknowledging the vital role of the G-20 in shaping a rules-based world order that promotes shared prosperity and security, President Tinubu emphasized that most of today’s pressing issues are "international in character and cannot be addressed without multilateral cooperation."

"Therefore, stronger collaboration, cooperation, and partnerships among diverse regions are the pathways to a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future for our world. 

"This is why the role and contributions of the G-20 in shaping a new world order that is fair and rules-based can not be over-emphasized. A world that lives as one family, but is divided by staggering income inequalities and uneven access to basic social goods by the vast majority of our people cannot result in a peaceful and secure world where shared prosperity is achieved.

"I hasten to add that such rules and global governance structures of our collective dreams must be collectively designed, collectively owned, and collectively managed. This is consistent with the true spirit of One Family, mutual respect, and sustainable development. 

"Nigeria is poised, able and willing to be a major player in this family of the G-20 and in shaping a new world, without whom, the family will remain incomplete," he said. 

The Nigerian leader congratulated India for hosting the historic summit and for successfully landing on the moon under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He described the achievement as an inspiration to all developing countries of the Global South.

On the issue of African Union (AU) inclusion in the G-20, the Nigerian leader welcomed the decision, saying it "opens opportunities for future membership of the group in a manner that reflects the relative balance of power and inclusiveness of humanity as One Family.

Reflecting on the theme of the Summit: 'One Earth. One Family. One Future,' President Tinubu stressed the interconnectedness of global affairs and the need for collaborative efforts.

He underscored the importance of tackling challenges related to technology, energy transition, and access to credit, as well as the growing socio-economic divide between those who have and those who do not.

The President urged greater solidarity among nations, tasking advanced economies to support disadvantaged regions in the Global South and to promote climate justice.

President Tinubu also called for the strengthening of international frameworks for resource mobilization and governance that are based on the principles of justice, equity, and fairness.

In addressing the sub-theme of Session II of the Summit, which is One Family,  President Tinubu highlighted the magnitude of challenges facing humanity today. 

"The need for us to work together as one family has, therefore, become more imperative. We must strive to create a world of inclusiveness in which everyone has access to the basic necessities of life, and in a manner that widens and strengthens the ownership of our planet regardless of one's economic, social, and political status."

President Tinubu urged the Global North, advanced economies, and multilateral institutions to mobilize resources and direct efforts to where help is needed most in the disadvantaged Global South. 

"By doing so, we will be building a society anchored on the strong values of tolerance and mutual respect, where diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation take precedence over competition, conflict, and divisions, which are based on inflexible ideologies and belief systems," the President concluded.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

September 9, 2023