EKSG Condemns Attempt to Illegally Depose Ekiti Monarch.

EKSG Condemns Attempt to Illegally Depose Ekiti Monarch.

....Mediates in Odo- Ora Crisis.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has condemned alleged attempt being made by some aggrieved individuals in Odo-Ora Ekiti, in Ido/ Osi Local Government Area to dethrone the community's Traditional Ruler and Obalemo, Oba Samuel Akinola Adeyemo.

The government also denied a publication credited to Chief Jide Ajewole, who holds the traditional title of Oloja Odo to the effect that the Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief ( Mrs) Monisade Afuye, directed the holding of a peace meeting outside the palace to decide the monarch's fate on the deposition threat.

The Deputy Governor made the  clarification, on Wednesday, while mediating in the crisis between Oba Adeyemo and a group of elites, where she stoutly denied a publication, claiming that she ordered the holding of a meeting outside the palace in the community.

The peace parley was convened by Mrs Afuye to hear the petition written by Oba Adeyemo against Chief Ajewole, the second in command in chieftaincy hierarchy and some elites for allegedly fueling crisis and plotting to depose him.

In the petition, Obalemo alleged the Chief of dereliction of duties, insubordination, harassment, forming factional government and stoking crisis by inciting the elites and youth against the traditional authority, among others.

Mrs Afuye, in a statement by her Media Aide, Victor Ogunje, stressed that  at no time did she take any action, either personally or by proxy to suggest that she was backing the proponents of dethronement of the monarch in the town.   

Mrs Afuye posited that the government of Governor Biodun Oyebanji holds the traditional rulers in high regards and won't exhibit any action to demean or denigrate their status. 

"At no time did I instruct anyone to hold any meeting outside the palace to determine the fate of our royal father. This government is a peace maker and not the one that will stoke the ember of discord. We are not party to any attempt to remove the monarch.

"Let me also tell you that you have no power to remove the monarch, only the government can do that. Go and cooperate with Oba Adeyemo to develop your town. You can't witness any progress when you start staging wars against your traditional ruler".

The Deputy Governor ordered the embattled Chief to mend fences with the monarch in the interest of peace in the community, saying: "I give you six months to reunite with the palace. You can't be holding a factional government when there is a monarch and if you fail to do this, there will be consequences".

Mrs Afuye charged the elites in the town, led by the former Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti, Prof Olawuni Ajaja  to rally support for the monarch and resolve all the crisis in the community, rather than taking sides.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Governor, directed the monarch to pay all the outstanding allowances of the embattled Chief to lay a solid foundation for the initiation of a peace meeting to tackle the lingering row.

In his submission, Chief Ilesanmi, denied all the accusations, saying he was opposing the king on the premise of alleged intention to downgrade him to number three in the chieftaincy hierarchical order of the town.

Chief Ajewole also denied issuance of  any statement, where he calmed that the Ekiti State Deputy Governor ordered the holding of a meeting to decide the monarch's fate, describing this as handiwork of evil doers. 

He maintained that he was not being propelled by the elites to destabilise the community or holding a parallel government as being claimed by the monarch, promising to reunite with the palace if Obalemo spreads a true olive branch to him.

Commending the government, the monarch, said the clarifications and intervention will fast track speedy resolution of the tussle , saying all the suggestions propounded by the Deputy Governor  for expeditious resolution of the matter shall be considered in due course.

Ex-President Buhari Welcomes Supreme Court Verdict, Makes Case For Higher Voter Turnout.

Ex-President Buhari Welcomes Supreme Court Verdict, Makes Case For Higher Voter Turnout.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari says the decision to dismiss the appeals by Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Mr. Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP), by the Supreme Court, is a welcome relief to him and to a majority of the citizens of Nigeria.

The former President repeated what he said on the earlier 6 September verdict of the Presidential Election Petition Court, which affirmed President @officialABAT's victory, that the welcome decision is "a reaffirmation of the will of the majority of the people against the determined will of a hard-fighting minority."

“Now that we have arrived at the last bus-stop, after a tortuous 8-months of expensive legal journey, the nation deserves a break. The opposition has fought a good fight. Having now exhausted their rights as constitutionally allowed, they should take the hand of fellowship extended by the Tinubu/Shettima @OfficialAPCNg government. Let them allow the Government to run their administration and the people to enjoy the full benefits of the promises the All Progressives Congress (APC) made."

The former President expressed concern over low voting percentages all over the country, especially in urban areas, and said this should change, given the acceptance and vibrancy of democracy in Nigeria.

He wishes the President and his team a successful term in office.

Garba Shehu

October 26, 2023

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Calls for National Unity and Progress Following Supreme Court Verdict.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Calls for National Unity and Progress Following Supreme Court Verdict.

....It Is Time For Us To Build Our Great Nation Together~ Tinubu. 

I welcome the verdict of the Justice John I. Okoro-led Panel of the Supreme Court on the Presidential Election petitions filed by the candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party, challenging the ruling of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal. 

The court has done justice to all issues put up for consideration in the petitions on the merits of the law, without fear or favour. 

There is no doubt, with the profound judgment of today, that our electoral jurisprudence and constitutional democracy are further consolidated and embedded more indelibly in our national identity because of the diligence and undaunted professionalism of the Honourable Justices who presided over the matter. 

While the verdict of today has laid to rest the agitating discourse over who truly won the 2023 Presidential election and met the constitutional requirements as laid out by law, I want to reiterate that my faith in our nation's judiciary has never been shaken, not even for a moment, because I know that our hallowed courts of law will not fail to administer justice to all Nigerians in all matters and at all times. Despite the fusillade of pressure and attempts at intimidation by some political actors, the judiciary demonstrated its unequivocal commitment to upholding the rule of law for the upliftment and defense of humanity.

It was affirmed once more today, that my party, the governing All Progressives' Congress, had freely and fairly won the popular mandate of Nigerians, which has since given rise to my leadership of this great nation at a tumultuous period of unprecedented reforms in our history as a nation.

With deep gratitude to God Almighty, I solemnly and humbly accept today's judicial victory with an intense sense of responsibility and a burning desire to meet the great challenges confronting our people.

The victory of today has further energised and strengthened my commitment to continue to serve all Nigerians of all political persuasions, tribes, and faiths, with honour and total respect for the diverse opinions and uniting values of our citizens.

Our Renewed Hope agenda for a greater and prosperous Nigeria has further gained momentum and I will continue to work from morning to night, every single day, to build a country that meets our collective yearnings and aspirations.

We are all members of one household, and this moment demands that we continue to work and build our country together. The strength of our diversity and the great citizenship that binds us must now compel us forward in directing the energy of our people towards building a virile, stronger, united, and more prosperous country. 

In the days and months ahead, I trust that the spirit of patriotism will be elevated into supporting our administration to improve the living conditions of Nigerians. I am prepared to welcome the contributions of all Nigerians to foster and strengthen our collective progress.

I send my immense gratitude to all Nigerians for the mandate to serve our country. I promise again to meet and exceed your expectations in service delivery and good governance, working with my team and trusting in the grace of God.

May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu,

President and Commander-in-Chief, Federal Republic of Nigeria 

October 26, 2023

NANS South-West Zone Passes Vote of Confidence on BOUESTI Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Victor Adeoluwa.

NANS South-West Zone Passes Vote of Confidence on BOUESTI Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Victor Adeoluwa.

In a resounding show of support, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone, has passed a vote of confidence on Prof. Victor Adeoluwa, the Vice-Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti (BOUESTI). Prof. Adeoluwa's outstanding contributions to the university have earned him this unanimous endorsement.

Under Prof. Adeoluwa's visionary leadership, BOUESTI has experienced a remarkable transformation, with significant upgrades in infrastructure. The campus now boasts renovated office blocks and solar street lights illuminating its pathways. Additionally, the introduction of innovative units such as CERAD, the Enterprising Unit, the Consultancy Centre, and the Disability Support Unit has greatly enhanced the overall educational experience.

in Pic: Prof. Victor Adeoluwa, the Vice-Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti (BOUESTI).

Prof. Adeoluwa's commitment to academic excellence is evident in the facilitation of 78 new programs approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the promotion of qualified personnel to professorial positions. These efforts have expanded educational opportunities and elevated BOUESTI's academic standing. The procurement of state-of-the-art science laboratory equipment and office furniture worth millions of Naira has further enriched the learning environment.

BOUESTI, under Prof. Adeoluwa's guidance, has initiated part-time programs and established a Dental Clinic at the Health Centre, catering to the well-being of students and staff. These strides in excellence have not gone unnoticed, as BOUESTI was ranked the 27th best university in Nigeria by the Times Higher Education ranking. Moreover, the university was honored with the Africa Outstanding University of Education award, presented at the University of Rwanda, Kigali. Notably, it was also recognized as the most outstanding university in the South-West Region at the Nigeria Hemisphere Awards in Abuja.

NANS Southwest Zone extends its vote of confidence to Prof. Victor Adeoluwa, acknowledging his extraordinary achievements and unwavering dedication to the advancement of BOUESTI. With his exemplary leadership, the university is poised to continue excelling in research, innovation, and scholarship.

E-signed:

COMR. AYODELE K. IBIMILUA

CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

09030668682

FOR

COMR. OWOLEWA TAIWO

DEPUTY COORDINATOR, NANS SOUTHWEST

07037352506

Farm Centres In 774 Councils To Take Off Soon — Shettima.

Farm Centres In 774 Councils To Take Off Soon — Shettima. 

....Vice President woos investors with Nigeria’s 70m hectares of arable land.

Investors have been given a glimpse into the country’s massive agricultural potential.

Vice President Kashim Shettima unveiled the enormous capacity for investment in agribusiness in Iowa, United States on Tuesday.

To guarantee food security, he said the Federal Government plans mechanised farm centres in all the 774 local government areas.

According to him, Nigeria remained the best place to invest, “with about 70 million hectares of underutilised arable land, which is 75 per cent of our total land area”.

He added: “Nigeria offers a substantial opportunity to both local and foreign investors to boost agricultural productivity. 

“This is why we’ve embraced the TAAT, GIP, and SAPZ programmes and we are investing in agricultural research through the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF).

“This is why we are helping our farmers increase production and providing essential infrastructure for industries in peri-urban areas to expand their capacity. 

“This is the wisdom for our resolve to establish Mechanisation Service Centres in all our 774 Local Government Areas to facilitate essential primary production services.”

Shettima’s remarks were made available by his spokesman Stanley Nkwocha.

The Tinubu Administration has expressed its interest in diversifying the economy from oil and gas to agriculture.

Shettima spoke during the Norman Borlaug International Dialogue.

The Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, also referred to as the “Borlaug Dialogue,” is a gathering of individuals from more than 65 countries fully prepared to address cutting-edge issues related to global food security and nutrition.

The theme of this year’s lecture is “Harnessing Change”. The Vice President told the gathering that under President Tinubu’s watch, Nigeria has since demonstrated that the Agrifood sector was a top priority.

Delivering his address titled, “Nigeria’s Agribusiness Roadmap for a Prosperous Future,” VP Shettima said: “Our primary objective is to empower our farmers and attract investors. 

“We are increasing primary production to harness the economic potential of agro-processing and industrialisation. 

“This is why, upon assuming office, the President declared a state of emergency in agriculture.

“The connection between food and national security is too significant for us not to be alarmed by happenings around the world, whether in response to unforeseen disasters like the COVID-19 pandemic or the geopolitical frictions around us.”

Restating Nigeria’s firm belief in the power of partnership, the VP explained that it was for this reason that the country had prioritised interventions, which he said present profound economic opportunities for investors.

He listed the interventions to include:

*The National Agriculture Growth Scheme (NAGS);

*the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT);

*The Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES);

*The Green Imperative Project (GIP) and

*The Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) programmes.

“Allow me to share that Nigeria understands the essence of partnerships in sustaining the dreams and promises that have brought us together today. 

“This is why we are already collaborating with institutions such as the African Development Bank, the World Bank, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the Islamic Development Bank, and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to achieve food and nutrition security in Nigeria and beyond.

“With the invaluable support of our partners, we are exploring innovative strategies to transform this quest for food security into a thriving enterprise,” Senator Shettima stated.

He added that while much of the demand for agribusiness products was satisfied through imports, the Tinubu Administration is dedicated to reversing Nigeria’s over-reliance on importation.

VP Shettima noted that apart from the fact that its strategic location in West Africa provides easy access to regional and international markets, Nigeria was also poised to dismantle investment barriers.

This, he said, is being achieved through a supportive policy framework such as the National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP).

He continued: “Because we believe that import rules are a significant factor, we’ve established a policy of zero duties on agricultural machinery and imposed restrictions on certain agricultural commodities to stimulate local production. 

“We are also offering preferential financing and subsidies, exemplified by an agricultural credit guarantee scheme that guarantees up to 75 per cent of loans for agricultural ventures.

“We’ve also introduced a range of tax incentives, including tax holidays, deductions for locally sourced materials, labour incentives, and pioneer status incentives, making it easier to conduct business. 

“Notably, we’ve opened the doors to foreign investors, allowing them to have 100 per cent ownership in companies and repatriate their profits and dividends without hindrance.”

While introducing VP Shettima, Ambassador Terry Branstad, President of the World Food Prize Foundation and former U.S. Ambassador to China, described the Nigerian Vice President as a rare African statesman whose leadership qualities, loyalty as well as sense of commitment to nationhood and development can best be described as legendary.

He expressed optimism that the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Presidency would be successful given its devotion to results-oriented diplomacy.

Attending the Dialogue with the Vice President were Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang; Minister of Agriculture, Sen. Abubakar Kyari; and Consul General (New York) Amb. Lot Egopija, and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Agribusiness and Productivity Enhancement (Office of the Vice President), Dr Kingsley Uzoma, among others.

Oyebanji's Commitment to Disability Community Sets Unprecedented Standard in Ekiti, Says Aide.

Oyebanji's Commitment to Disability Community Sets Unprecedented Standard in Ekiti, Says Aide.

...Stakeholders Commend Governor's Inclusive Governance.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Community Communications, Mrs. Mary Oso-Omotoso, has described the Governor Biodun Oyebanji-led administration as a trailblazer in inclusive governance, setting an unprecedented standard for Ekiti State.

Addressing participants at a Stakeholders’ training organized by the Advocacy for Women with Disabilities (AWWDI) in Ado Ekiti, Omotoso emphasized that Governor Oyebanji places immense importance on the well-being of persons  with disabilities, urging them to recognize their pivotal role in his vision for the state. 

She stated that marginalization of persons with disabilities has no place in Ekiti State under Progressives government , noting that aside enacting and  implementing the Ekiti Disability Law during the immediate past administration, the present administration is dedicated to addressing the needs of people with disabilities. 

“Upon assuming office, Governor Oyebanji prioritized inclusivity by first approving automatic employment of sign language interpreters in key government institutions such as Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, State owned Television station , and others “.

“In alignment with the disability law's five percent employment benchmark, a significant number of persons with disabilities have been welcomed into the state's civil service. This move not only fulfills legal obligations but also reflects commitment of Governor Oyebanji in creating equal opportunities for all.”

“Governor Oyebanji's dedication to enhancing the welfare of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) goes beyond mere compliance. He further strengthened his commitment by appointing a Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion. This strategic move aims to foster an even more inclusive and supportive environment for PWDs in the state”, she said .

Omotosho revealed that people with disabilities hold a special place as critical stakeholders in the government's comprehensive plan. 

Omotosho lauded the organizers of the programme for introducing such an empowering initiative to Ekiti State, aiming to uplift disabled women and help them lead meaningful lives as integral members of the society.

Reacting, Mr. Funso Olajide, the General Secretary of the Joint National Association of People with Disability (JONAPWD) alongside other stakeholders at the programme, expressed gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for his unwavering support for PWD community in Ekiti State and encouraged the Governor to constitute the disability agency's board members soon .

President Tinubu Appoints New Leadership In The Marine And Blue Economy Sector

President Tinubu Appoints New Leadership In The Marine And Blue Economy Sector.

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of two new Chief Executive Officers in Parastatals and Agencies under the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in line with the recommendations of the Honourable Minister, H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola:

Managing Director / CEO, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) — Alhaji Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji

Executive Secretary / CEO, Nigerian Shippers' Council (NSC) — Mr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima

Alhaji Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji is a graduate of Banking and Finance and holds a Master's degree in Public Administration and Business Administration. He is an Economist with industry experience of more than 28 years before he entered the public service. In the public service, he first reversed the downward trajectory of the Osun State Investment Company Limited before serving as the Osun State Commissioner of Finance for eight years.

Mr. Akutah Ukeyima is a graduate of Law and holds a Master's degree in Public International Law from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He most recently served as the Head of the Central Authority Unit, International Cooperation in Criminal Matters, Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation.

President Bola Tinubu tasks the new appointees in this vital sector to faithfully implement the policies and programmes of the Honourable Minister in pursuit of the expeditious and efficient attainment of bolstered revenues and investments as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda's Blue Economy strategy.