November 11 lmo guber polls: Ganduje, APC govs, deputy speaker storm Owerri for Uzodimma.

November 11 lmo guber polls: Ganduje, APC govs, deputy speaker storm Owerri for Uzodimma.

Ahead of the November 11 Imo state governorship election, the national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje on Saturday, September 15, storms Owerri, the Imo State capital to inaugurate the party’s national gubernatorial campaign council.

The party’s flag bearer, Governor Hope Uzordimma is seeking his second term mandate in the state governorship election.

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed the governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi states for Saturday, November 11, 2023.

The 609-man council is to be led by the Cross River State governor, Senator Bassey Otu.

Ebonyi State governor, Francis Nwifuru; Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, and Minister of State, Labour, Uche Nnaji and Minister of Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, are to serve as Co-Chairmen of the council.

Other members of the council include all members of the party’s administrative organ – the National Working Committee (NWC), Ekiti State governor, Abiodun Oyebanji, former Imo and Abia state governors, Senator Rochas Okorocha and Senator Orji Uzor Kalu

Also on the council are Minister of Women Affairs, Barr. Uju Kennedy, Senator Andy Uba, Senator Tayo Alasoadura and deputy national treasurer, Hon. Omorede Osifo-Marshal, Hon. Julie Okangbe, former Inspector General of Police Mike Okiro, Senator Joy Mordi, Senator Uche Ekwunife, General Azubuike Ihejirika, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, Hon. Paul Ikonne among others.

A release by the APC National Organising Secretary, Alhajj Sulaiman Muhammad Arugungu showed that the National Chairman will inaugurate the council by 11 a.m. at Landmark Event Centre, Owerri and a post-inauguration dinner for the National Chairman, members of the NWC and campaign council members will be treated to a dinner.

The inauguration will be rounded up on Sunday with a Church service at the Government House Chapel Owerri.

EKSG Bars Traditional Chief from Wearing Crown, Changing Title.

EKSG Bars Traditional Chief from Wearing Crown, Changing Title.

....As govt lifts suspension slammed on embattled Chief.

The Ekiti State Government , has barred a traditional title holder and Odofin of Afao quarters, Ikere Ekiti, in Ikere Local Government Area, Chief Rufus Olayinka from wearing a royal crown when the  area he superintends over has not been granted full autonomy.

The government said it was a flagrant violation of the Ekiti State Chief Law for Chief Olayinka to be adorning himself in royal regalia, when the autonomy being agitated for has not been granted by Governor Biodun Oyebanji's administration.

Meanwhile, reprieve has come for the embattled Chief, as the government lifted the suspension slammed on him by the Ogoga of Ikere, Oba Adejimi Adu and members of his council for alleged insubordination and disrespect to the paramount ruler.

Oba Adu, had written a petition to the state government, alleging that Odofin was disrespecting his stool and acting in a manner that denigrates his position as the prescribed authority in the town.

The monarch in the petition accused the embattled Chief of parading himself as Oloja Afao without being granted autonomy, which was against the Ekiti State Chief Law.

Presiding over the matter, on Friday, the Ekiti State  Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, contended that  it was an aberration  for Odofin to have worn a crown or change his title to Oloja Afao  when the government has not acceded to his request for a full autonomy. 

However, Mrs Afuye, in a statement by her Media Assistant, Victor Ogunje, described as null and void , the suspension of Odofin from Ogoga-in Council, saying the process was inchoate  since the letter to that effect was not made available to the state government.

"Our position is that, Odofin can't be wearing a crown when his quarters, which is under Ikere Ekiti, has not been granted full autonomy. Again, he can't change his title from Odofin to Oloja Afao, this is utterly wrong and disrespectful. It is like jumping the gun.

"Henceforth, he should stop wearing a crown or bear any other title than Odofin. But concerning his suspension, we have no evidence before us to show that he was suspended because we have no letter to that effect . So, this suspension can't hold".

The Deputy Governor also mandated Odofin to be attending any meeting convened by Oba Adu, even if it is once in a month, in spite of his health challenge. 

At the peace meeting, the Sapetu of Ikere Ekiti, Chief Olufemi Babatola, who represented the Ogoga, submitted that  the matter could have been resolved earlier than now, if Odofin and Afao community had acceded to the initial government  and security agencies' trouble- shooting interventions.

Ogoga said it was stunning that the suspended Odofin could make himself a monarch even without his knowledge and that of the state government.

Speaking on behalf of the estranged Chief, the spokespersons of Afao community, Hon. Tokunbo Omotayo and Pastor Rufus Akeredolu, said though the community was making agitations over autonomy, saying this would not coerce them to disrespect Ogoga, the paramount ruler of the kingdom .

They said the problem started when they started agitating for autonomy in Ikere Ekiti, adding that their mission was to fasttrack development in that section  Ikere Ekiti and not to divide the town or cause disaffection.

"In our agitations for autonomy, we made it clear that it will be under the paramount ruler of Ogoga of Ikere if granted. We wouldn't have said this if we didn't recognise Ogoga's supremacy. 

"We agree with all that the government had said and we will comply accordingly".

Afe Babalola’s daughter, Falana’s wife, Ajulo, 66 others make SAN’s list.

Afe Babalola’s daughter, Falana’s wife, Ajulo, 66 others make SAN’s list.

Chief Afe Babalola’s daughter Mrs. Folashade Alli, wife of rights’ activist Femi Falana, Funmi and Dr. Kayode Ajulo are among those shortlisted for the Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) rank.

The lists of those recommended for consideration was released in Abuja yesterday by the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC).

Others on the 69-man list include: Abiola Oyebanji; Bomo Agbebi; Daniel Uruakpa; Felix Offia; Lawrence Falade and Kingsley Obamogie.

The committee said: “The LPPC by this notice announced the shortlisting of Applicants who qualified after the advocates 1st and 2nd Filtration Stages, Academic pre-qualification and Academic 2nd filtration exercise

“Also, after the independent appeals hearing and chambers inspection, preparatory to the interview stage in the process for the conferment of the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria on the successful Applicants for the year 2023.

“All qualified shortlisted applicants are graded under two-category systems by the LPPC, namely advocates and academic applicants respectively".

Credit: The Nation.

FEDPOFFA Alumni Association Hosts Mentorship Program To Sensitize Students.

FEDPOFFA Alumni Association Hosts Mentorship Program To Sensitize Students.

....To unveil a 3-Year strategic plan for the Polytechnic, alumni members.

In a bid to sensitize the graduating students of the Polytechnic, the Federal Polytechnic Offa Alumni Association has organized an impactful mentorship program to connect alumni with students; provide guidance, insight, and mentorship in various fields of study.

The mentorship program held on Thursday 14th of September 2023 brought together a diverse group of successful alumni who achieved significant milestones in their respective professions. These accomplished individuals volunteered their time and expertise to inspire and guide the next generation of leaders.

 The event highlighted the importance of mentorship in shaping the future careers of students and underscored the commitment of the association to facilitate the valuable learning experience.

The first lead presenter who is an alumnus of the Polytechnic from the University of Ilorin, Professor Rasheed Gbenga Jimoh while speaking on mentorship commended the management and leadership of the alumni association for organizing the impactful programme for the students.

He therefore tasked the students with determination and commitment as driving forces to success. He charged the students to always make use of opportunities rather than hunt for hasty wealth, adding that determination is the key to opportunity in life.

Another alumna, Mrs Olatomiwa Williams who is a country manager for Microsoft, Nigeria, and Ghana expressed her deep feelings as an alumna of the Federal Polytechnic Offa and noted that mentorship is relevant to career growth as it gives room for greatness in life. She therefore encouraged the students to be committed to the mentorship process as it will enable them to grow in their  career path

While the pioneer President of the Alumni Association, Dr. Ayo Adeyemi lauded the Management led by Engr. Dr. Kadiri for notable achievements since his assumption of office. Speaking on the program,  he said mentorship is about investment in life and urged the students to leverage on the opportunity to shape their life in the future.

Earlier, the Rector of the Polytechnic, Engr. Dr. Kadiri Kamoru in his opening remarks commended the Alumni Association led by Comrade Rahman Ayuba for implementing the mentorship program which is aimed at guiding the students toward their career path. The Rector also lauded the Board of Trustee Member chaired by Engr. Kola Lamidi for the continuous support and innovative initiatives that foster a strong bond between the institution and its esteemed alumni. 

According to him, "The impact of this mentorship program will increase passion and motivation exhibited by our students. The guidance they will receive from experienced alumni has not only enhanced their academic competency, but also nurtured their personal and professional growth. It is through mentorship programs like these that we see the determination and resilience of our students flourish."

While the National President of the Alumni Association, Comrade Rahman Ayuba expressed appreciation to the management led by Engr. Dr. Kadiri for creating an enabling environment and embracing the idea of the Alumni.

Addressing students, Comrade Ayuba noted that the graduates of the Federal Polytechnic Offa spread across the globe are making waves in their different fields of endeavor. He charged the students to remain focused, dedicated and committed as the Alumni mentorship program is designed to assist the students to actualise their dream. 

According to him, "Our goal is to design a gap between academia and industry by providing students with the necessary guidance and support they need to succeed. Through this mentorship program, we hope to inspire and empower students to reach their full potential. This program is designed to guide and mentor students after graduation. The Alumni Association is always ready  to assist you to become the best version of yourself."

Subsequently, the Alumni Association will be unveiling a 3-year strategic plan at its Annual General Meeting for the polytechnic and alumni members respectively.

63rd Independence Day: Akume heads anniversary committee.

63rd Independence Day: Akume heads anniversary committee.

A15-member Inter-ministerial committee  headed by Secretary to the Governnment of the Federation George Akume is to plan the nation’s 63rd Independence Day anniversary. 

The committee was inaugurated in Abuja yesterday. Activities  lined up for the event were also rolled out.

Members of the committee  are Mohammed Malagi, minister of Information and National Orientation;  Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo(Interior minister); Wale Edun (Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy); Yusuf  Tuggar(Foreign of Affairs minister); Nyesom Wike(Federal Capital Territory minister ); Nuhu Ribadu( National Security Adviser); Kayode Egbetokun (Inspector-General of Police); Yusuf  Bichi (Director-General, Department of State Services) and Commander, Guards Brigade Adebisi Onasanya

Others are the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Permanent Secretary, Special Services Office,  Permanent Secretary’, Ecological Project Office, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs Office.

Akume said that the  programmes which are subject to ratification would commence with a world press conference on September 25.

There would be  also be a “church service and presidential broadcast   on 1st October; Juma’at service on 29th September; symposium/public lecture  on 28th September;  and  Parade  on 2nd October, 2023.” 

Akume, who inaugurated the committee   explained that the anniversary would provide the nation an   opportunity to reflect on the contributions and sacrifices of  heroes and heroines who fought for its independence. 

The government, according to him, will also    showcase its achievements in dealing with the social and economic challenges  confronting the nation.

G77+CHINA LEADERS’ SUMMIT: NIGERIA, CUBA TO DEEPEN STRATEGIC RELATIONS.

G77+CHINA LEADERS’ SUMMIT: NIGERIA, CUBA TO DEEPEN STRATEGIC RELATIONS.

....VP delivers special message from President Tinubu to Cuba’s President.

Ahead of the G77+China Leaders’ Summit starting Friday, the Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima has expressed the desire of Tinubu’s administration to deepen existing bilateral relations with the Republic of Cuba.

Vice President Shettima stated this today during a courtesy visit to the Vice President of Cuba, Salvador Valdez Mesa at the Palace De Revolution in Havana.

In his remarks during the visit, the Vice President traced the history of relations between Nigeria, Africa and Cuba especially its support for Southern Africa.

“We hold Cuba in high esteem especially your commitment to us in Africa”, he affirmed.

While commending the existing relationship between the two countries, VP Nana Shettima reiterated the need to re-commit to future relations, saying “our relationship has been very excellent over the years and this relations needs to be strengthened and upscaled. 

“This is why I came with Ministers of Agriculture and that of Science, Technologh and Innovation to explore future areas of partnership.”

The Vice President stressed the need to explore opportunities in Science, Technology and Innovation as well as the agriculture sector.

He took time to deliver a special message to the President of Cuba, Miguel Diaz-Canel from President Bola Tinubu, assuring him of President Tinubu’s commitment to deepening their mutual relations.

In his own remarks, the Vice President of Cuba was full of praise for Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa and the world. 

He said Cuba takes its relations with Nigeria very seriously, noting that the support to Africa in past decades is due to th fact that Cuba considers itself as an African State.

He thus expressed his country’s readiness to explore new areas of collaboration with Nigeria in such sectors such as health, biodiversity and agriculture.

He also thanked Nigeria for its participation at the upcoming Summit saying “we attach great importance to your presence here.”

In VP’s delegation to Cuba’s Vice President were the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Abubakar Kyari; Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Adamu Lamuwa and Nigeria’s Ambassador to Cuba, Amb. Ben Okoyen amongst others.

 

Olusola Abiola

Director Information

Office of the Vice President

14th September, 2023

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPROVES ESTABLISHMENT OF PRESIDENTIAL COMMITTEE TO ADDRESS HERDERS / FARMERS CLASHES AND BOLSTER LIVESTOCK & DAIRY INDUSTRIES.

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPROVES ESTABLISHMENT OF PRESIDENTIAL COMMITTEE TO ADDRESS HERDERS / FARMERS CLASHES AND BOLSTER LIVESTOCK & DAIRY INDUSTRIES.

President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of a Presidential Committee dedicated to the reform of the livestock industry and the provision of long-term solutions to recurring clashes between herders and farmers in the country.

The President announced the establishment of the Committee on Thursday in Abuja, following the submission of a report from the National Conference on Livestock Reforms and Mitigation of Associated Conflicts in Nigeria.

The Conference was convened by the former Executive Governor of Kano State and Chairman of All Progressives' Congress (APC), Dr. Umar Abdullahi Ganduje.

The President explained that the Committee is expected to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, and propose recommendations aimed at fostering a peaceful co-existence between herders and farmers while ensuring the security and economic well-being of all Nigerians.

"The Federal Government is fully prepared to cover the cost of acquiring the land. These opportunities will provide gainful employment for our veterinary doctors, while opening doors for the private sector as the provision of new educational opportunities for herders’ and their children emerge. Medical facilities will be established. This is a life-changing opportunity that we have.

"Imagine us producing enough milk for our school children. Imagine us becoming net exporters of cheese and yoghurt. Imagine us producing the skin massively with a major Nigerian leather industry. Imagine us providing cold storage facilities and employment across the nation. These things are possible in front of us," the President charged.

President Tinubu commended Ganduje for assembling the best minds and experts to find solutions to the perennial issues between pastoralists and farmers.

He also praised the committee members for their diligent work in examining the complex issues related to livestock management, land use, and security.

"Out of every tragedy, if you are careful, you will see an opportunity. We have faced this conflict for some time. We know it is a homegrown problem. It is very hard for people to stay away from their traditional, old ways. 

"I tried in 2018 to bring about a solution to this problem, but it proved elusive. But I've been told not to ever give up, and today I believe the solution is here," the President stated, referring to the committee report, which contains several recommendations.

"It is not the fault of herders and farmers that this crisis has persisted. It is the fault of the leadership who failed to find immediate solutions to solve their problems. Leadership is about thinking and doing," he said.

In his remarks, Ganduje recalled that during his tenure as the Governor of Kano State, he had hosted the National Conference as part of a deliberate effort to promote the modernization of livestock production, while strengthening the capacity of local authorities to manage relationships and amicably resolve conflicts between herders and farmers.

He noted that Kano had remained one of the most peaceful states in the country throughout his eight years in office.

"Mr. President, I am convinced that the report submitted here today has the antidote to the problems of the livestock industry. It addresses the key reforms and presents various development options required for the sustainable development of the sector.

"The implementation of the proposals will enhance productivity, improve livelihoods, promote environmental conservation, address substantial causes of conflicts between farmers and pastoralists, and help in reducing the cost of importation for animal products like milk and beef," the Convener noted.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

September 14, 2023