President Tinubu Appoints Two Board Members to Nigeria Customs Service.

President Tinubu Appoints Two Board Members to Nigeria Customs Service.

In a recent development, President Bola Tinubu has given his nod to the appointment of two highly qualified Nigerians to serve as Members on the Board of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). The appointments come with a term of four (4) years and are designated to represent the organized private sector in this crucial governmental body.

The newly appointed board members are:

Dr. Aba Ibrahim

Dr. Muda Yusuf

President Tinubu expressed his best wishes to the appointees as they take on their roles, highlighting the importance of ensuring that the perspectives and views of the private sector are effectively presented. The President expects a thorough articulation of these viewpoints to align with the objectives of the Renewed Hope agenda. This includes the active promotion and attraction of investments spanning various sectors of the economy.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, conveyed the announcement on November 24, 2023. The appointments signify a strategic move by the administration to strengthen the governance and operations of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). It is anticipated that these appointments will contribute to the efficient implementation of ongoing reforms within the NCS.

As Nigeria charts a course for economic rejuvenation and growth, the inclusion of qualified individuals from the private sector on the NCS Board underscores the commitment to fostering collaboration between the public and private spheres. This approach aligns with the broader vision of the Renewed Hope agenda, aiming for a more responsive and dynamic governance structure.

The newly appointed members bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their roles, promising to contribute significantly to the objectives set forth by the administration. Their mandate includes facilitating the attraction of investments and fostering positive reforms within the Nigeria Customs Service.

With these appointments, President Tinubu reiterates his commitment to inclusive governance and economic transformation, emphasizing the importance of synergy between the public and private sectors in driving national development. The expectations are high that the Board, under the leadership of these appointees, will play a pivotal role in realizing the economic objectives outlined in the Renewed Hope agenda.

President Tinubu To APC Governor's: Remain Servants Of The People.

President Tinubu To APC Governor's: Remain Servants Of The People.

President Bola Tinubu has advised governors elected on the platform of the governing All Progressives' Congress (APC) to always put the interest of the people first and work for the good of their states.

Speaking when he received the Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, the returning Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, and the Governor-Elect of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, in Abuja, on Friday, the President expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the elections, which he described as free, fair, and peaceful. 

“You worked hard for this victory. I am very proud of you, but the real challenge has only started, and it will stare you in the face. That is the challenge of good governance. Make sure that everyone is carried along. You are now the servants of the people. To God be all the glory for the victories, and may God guide you.

"Once the people of Nigeria and their concerns are the focal point of your plans and actions, not only will governance be easier for you, but you will enhance the value of your states and the masses of the people will have new opportunities to grow and enjoy a new standard of living. This must be your driving focus as governors, but especially as governors elected on the platform of our great party.

“Two out of three is not a bad way to start. We will focus not on winning the elections alone but on delivering for the people. They are sovereign, and when we achieve what we promise, voters will respect us. We will work with you at the sub-national levels, and we will uphold the strength and superior excellence that is symbolized by the eagle on our coat of arms," the President concluded. 

The National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who led the Governors-Elect and APC stalwarts to meet with President Tinubu, said the party’s candidates conducted themselves with integrity as directed by the President during the elections, and that the party had conceded victory to the opposition in Bayelsa State. 

“We lost the election in Bayelsa, and we have conceded in good faith. You directed that the elections should be free, fair, and peaceful, and it was so," Dr. Ganduje said.

On behalf of the candidates who contested the elections, the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, thanked the President for providing strong and purposeful leadership at the center, which enabled and energized their campaigns.

“We won because of the leadership you demonstrated. The country was struggling, but the economy has been responding to the reforms and rapid-response strategy you have put in place," he said. 

Governor Biodun Oyebanji Initiates Ado-Ekiti Ring Road Construction for Economic Growth and Development.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji Initiates Ado-Ekiti Ring Road Construction for Economic Growth and Development.                                                           By: Comr Olamide Akinwumi. 

In a significant move towards enhancing connectivity and fostering economic development, Governor Biodun Oyebanji has officially launched the construction of the Ado-Ekiti Ring Road at Iworoko Ekiti. The groundbreaking ceremony, which took place on Friday, November 24th, underscores Governor Oyebanji's unwavering dedication to the state's infrastructure overhaul, a pivotal element for economic expansion and industrialization—key focal points of the BAO administration.

The Ado-Ekiti Ring Road project is poised to play a pivotal role in various aspects, primarily addressing transportation challenges, unlocking the state's potential, and propelling economic activities. As the governor set the wheels in motion for this transformative initiative, it signifies a resolute commitment to providing a robust framework for sustainable growth and progress in Ekiti State.

Governor Oyebanji's visionary approach places infrastructure development at the forefront of his governance priorities, recognizing it as a critical catalyst for economic prosperity. The Ado-Ekiti Ring Road is anticipated to create an efficient transportation network, linking different parts of the state and facilitating seamless movement of goods and services. This strategic infrastructure investment aligns with the governor's broader vision to position Ekiti State as a hub for economic activities and industrial advancement.

The flag-off ceremony not only marks the commencement of a crucial infrastructure project but also exemplifies Governor Oyebanji's commitment to ushering in an era of comprehensive development. The focus on road construction is emblematic of the administration's resolve to improve accessibility, spur economic growth, and enhance the overall quality of life for the people of Ekiti State.

As the Ado-Ekiti Ring Road project takes shape, it stands as a testament to Governor Biodun Oyebanji's proactive governance style, emphasizing the indispensability of robust infrastructure for sustainable progress. The BAO administration's strategic decisions and unwavering focus on good governance continue to pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for Ekiti State.

The people of Ekiti State, witnessing this groundbreaking initiative, commend Governor Oyebanji for his visionary leadership, applauding his dedication to steering the state towards unprecedented heights of development. The Ado-Ekiti Ring Road project signifies not just the physical expansion of road networks but, more importantly, the symbolic path towards a future where economic vibrancy and progress are woven into the very fabric of Ekiti State.

Ondo Crisis: Tinubu Wades Into Gov. Akeredolu, D’gov. Aiyedatiwa’s Feud.

Ondo Crisis: Tinubu Wades Into Gov. Akeredolu, D’gov. Aiyedatiwa’s Feud.

President Bola Tinubu has waded into the feud between Ondo Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu and Deputy Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

A source said President Tinubu has invited members of the Ondo Assembly to Abuja Friday.

Prominent elders and traditional rulers in the week appealed to President Tinubu to intervene in the political crisis to avert looming anarchy.

It was gathered the Ondo Assembly has be divided with 11 lawmakers now in support of Aiyedatiwa.

Sources said the 11 lawmakers were reached out to by some forces outside Ondo State.

A sitting of the lawmakers scheduled for Friday was said to have been pushed by the 11 lawmakers.

One of them, who pleaded anonymity, said the sitting was part of the plans hatched in Abuja with the 11 lawmakers to declare Governor Akeredolu incapacitated and declare Aiyedatiwa Governor.

Speaker Oladiji Olamide, who confirmed the meeting with President Tinubu, said the outcome of the meeting would determine the next line of action.

Oladiji said the scheduled Friday’s plenary was to declare Aiyedatiwa as Acting Governor and not to declare Akeredolu as incapacitated.

He said the meeting with President Tinubu would hold on Friday afternoon.

“Our sitting was to declare Aiyedatiwa as Acting Governor. The Governor is still alive,” he said.

(The Nation)

Audit Ordered for N8.9 Billion Monthly Salaries of FCTA Staff, Reveals Minister Wike.

Audit Ordered for N8.9 Billion Monthly Salaries of FCTA Staff, Reveals Minister Wike.

In a surprising revelation, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, expressed astonishment at the monthly salaries of FCT Administration staff, totaling a staggering N8.9 billion. Wike, undeterred by potential resistance, announced his decision to conduct a comprehensive audit to verify the accuracy of this figure.

During a live broadcast from his office on Friday, November 24, Minister Wike shed light on the magnitude of the salary disbursement, emphasizing the need for a thorough examination to ensure transparency and accountability in the FCT Administration.

Wike disclosed that the FCTA currently boasts a workforce of 38,000 staff members, adding further complexity to the salary disbursement scrutiny. The audit is expected to provide clarity on the structure and allocation of these substantial monthly payments.

Beyond the financial concerns, the minister addressed the pressing issue of insecurity within the territory. Wike assured the public that decisive measures would be taken without hesitation, demonstrating a commitment to addressing security challenges head-on.

In a notable development, Wike announced that President Bola Tinubu is slated to commission various projects within the FCT in the shortest possible time. This indicates a significant commitment to infrastructure and development initiatives in the capital territory.

As the audit process unfolds, stakeholders and the public await the outcome, anticipating a clearer understanding of the FCTA's financial landscape. Minister Wike's proactive stance on both fiscal oversight and security concerns signals a dedicated effort to enhance governance and ensure the well-being of the FCT and its residents.

Gombe pledges support for Tinubu’s food security agenda.

Gombe pledges support for Tinubu’s food security agenda.

Gombe state governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to bolstering President Bola Tinubu‘s Renewed Hope Agenda on Food Security and other federal government initiatives. 

The governor, who stated this while receiving in audience, the minister of water resources and sanitation, Muhammad Bello Goronyo at the Government House, assured of Gombe state’s synergy with the federal government towards achieving self-sufficiency in food production by leveraging available water and land resources.

Governor Inuwa said the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu is compatible with his administration’s development policies as encapsulated in the ten-year development plan of the state (Devagom).

He said: “The renewed hope Agenda which seeks to provide or restore the food security of this country, and improve on it, taking it to a higher level, is something that we really align with.”

He urged the federal government to do more in supporting the state to harness its water potential.

The governor added: “We have our own dam, the Balanga Dam which has been lying fallow for so long. We are not saying you fund it, but give us the technical support to identify very reputable partners who are into business to improve productivity and provide food security.”

He appreciated the support of the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation in curbing the aged-long water scarcity, especially in the state capital and its environs through the Gombe regional water expansion project and other collaborative projects that help in reducing the water supply problem to the barest level.

He noted: “At this very crucial moment, where we are almost 90% or so, nearing completion of the Gombe regional water expansion project, it is not an easy task; a 160km of pipe network, 3 mega booster stations, borehole-based mini water schemes, and many other facilities needed for lifting and pumping, I think with these, we are good to go.”

Speaking earlier, the minister said he and his entourage went around and saw some of the laudable projects being undertaken by the state government in particular, the Gombe regional water supply expansion project which is a joint project between his ministry and Gombe State Government.

The minister applauded the commitment of Governor Inuwa in partnering with his ministry in the execution of projects that have a direct bearing on the people.

He stated: “We are in partnership with the Gombe State Government in a number of projects; the PEWASH, SURWASH, Regional water supply expansion, and many more. In fact, Gombe is the only state in this country that keyed into all the projects we are executing in this country.”

The minister was in Gombe as part of his familiarization tour to various river basin development authorities across the country to ensure the maximizing potential of the river basins in promoting food security in the country.

He stated: “Incidentally, the Upper Benue River Basin happens to be one of the grade ‘A’ river basins in the country with enormous potential. If the potential is adequately utilised, we can cultivate enough food, create wealth, generate employment, reduce hunger, and provide adequate security; because hunger is the no. 1 factor that pushes people to insecurity.”

He, however, appealed to the governor to support the federal government’s target of boosting crop production by increasing available cultivable lands along the river basins.

Federal Government reels out new policies on road infrastructure.

 Federal Government reels out new policies on road infrastructure.

The minister of work, Dave Umahi, has reiterated the importance of the emphasis attached to quality delivery of construction works by the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

He said that the ‘business as usual’ syndrome in road construction is no longer tenable under the Renewed Hope administration.

Umahi added that the federal government under President Tinubu is committed to outstanding quality, value for money, innovation, responsiveness, fast deliveries, and technical expertise in road infrastructure development in the country.

He stressed that it has become expedient to disabuse the minds of the contractors handling government road projects from executing the jobs in contradiction of set standards.

In a statement by his chief press secretary, Uchenna Orji, while receiving a delegation of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), led by the President, Tasiu Gidari Wudil in his office on Thursday, November 23, Umahi reeled out the new policies to guide road infrastructure in the country.

The new policies include good stabilized and tested subgrade and sub-base course before pavement placement; expose subgrade, sub-base; and base course to 60 days of vehicular movement and continuous sheep-foot rolling before pavement placement.

Others are the introduction of reinforced concrete road pavement in most road carriageways and shoulders; continuous maintenance of all roads under construction throughout the life of the project under contract; effective design of road infrastructure anchored on a detailed report of environmental site conditions and geotechnical report; and community relations in terms of keeping roads motorable under the period of the contract.

The minister however emphasised that supervision was necessary in the actualization of quality delivery of road construction whether concrete pavement or asphalt, noting that each of the two models has its own attendant conditions.

While explaining that the rate of increase in the cost of materials for construction of the two models is alarming, the minister argued that the cost of materials for asphalt is in geometric progression while the cost of materials for concrete pavement is in arithmetic progression.

He also reiterated that prudence and value for money are the watchwords of the Ministry of Works under him, and this involves getting materials at the minimum purchase price and maximum efficiency and effectiveness of the product.

Earlier, the NSE President, Wudil was quoted as informing the Minister that the courtesy call aimed to seek areas of collaboration with one of their own while describing him as a round beg in a round hole, adding, “Since after your assumption of office, we have been monitoring your progress, and I must tell you we are not surprised, what you did as Governor in Ebonyi State is amazing.

“We visited you when you were the Governor of Ebonyi State and I am going to visit your governor now. I must go because it is like a pilgrimage… In fact Your Excellency, we are proud of you.”