Oyetola, Aregbesola will soon work together, says Akande.

Oyetola, Aregbesola will soon work together, says Akande.

The first interim National Chairman of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande, has assured Nigerians that Marine and Blue Economy Minister Adegboyega Oyetola and ex-Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola will soon end their differences and work together.

Akande, who turns 85 years today, recalled that he risked his life to end the bickering between the two political gladiators during the COVID-19 in 2020.

According to him, the reconciliatory meeting, which was witnessed by Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, yielded no results.

Akande gave the assurance while featuring on a Yoruba political programme, Oro Oselu, on a private radio station, Rave FM, in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.

The former Osun governor said the dispute between the duo would not last.

“Both Oyetola and Aregbesola are my children. They will be calm and patient. They will be happy like me. No single person can build or destroy the politics of Osun State.

“But I am sure that character determines friendship. I am sure that the animosity between them will grow weak. The one who is aggrieved will be appeased. In no distance time, they will work together.

“In 2020, they brought the fight before me and I tried my best. When it went bad, I risked my life to reconcile them. I got to know about their fight during COVID-19.

“I was surprised. I called them for a meeting and they ended the fighting in my presence but still continued with it after they left. I discovered that their followers were angry. I started calling them federal constituencies by constituencies to meet with stakeholders. I set up committees. This was during COVID-19.

“I am old. If I contract the virus, the chances of me surviving were slim, but for these people have high chances of surviving it. I risked my life to reconcile them…”

Mining operations: Fed Govt seeks to minimise impact on environment.

Mining operations: Fed Govt seeks to minimise impact on environment.

The Federal Ministries of Solid Minerals Development and Environment are strengthening collaboration to ensure that mining operations in the country have minimal adverse impact on the environment, in line with international best practices.

Speaking in his office in Abuja while hosting the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to securing mining areas.

The minister also said the government would remove impediments to seamless operations and ensure that mining processes conform to global standards of negligible harmful impact on the environment.

A statement yesterday in Abuja by Alake’s Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, said Lawal noted that issues around security at mining sites and the need to protect the environment from degradation as a result of mining operations dominated deliberations with his host.

“Recently, the minister (of Solid Minerals Development) launched a solid minerals roadmap, which I think took care of the issue of the environment. This is because whenever there is mining, the environment will be affected one way or the other.

“So, we are working very closely to see that whatever is being done will be within the limit of tolerable impact on the environment,” he said.

Also, the Federal Government has said it now depends on the solid minerals and metals sector for the country’s economic prosperity.

It said this is because fossil fuel was gradually being phased out with the advent of electric cars.

The government noted that the country might not get buyers for its fuel in a few years as its use was being reduced in many parts of the world.

The Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Mary Ogbe, said this yesterday in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, at the fifth National Council on Mining and Mineral Resources Development (NCMMRD) meeting.

She said: “The nation is depending on the solid mineral and metal sector for its economic prosperity for two reasons.

“Fossil fuel is gradually being phased out with the advent of electric cars. In China today, 30 per cent of their vehicles is electrically powered.

“So, in a matter of few years from now, we may not get buyers for our fuel. So, to you and I, who have the mandate at this point to make the solid minerals sector generate prosperity for our people, please, let us do so.

“Secondly, the world is going green and we must not be left behind. For us, we are highly blessed with the energy minerals as well. This edition of the National Council on Mining and Mineral Resources Development provides us with an invaluable platform to deliberate on key issues affecting the sector and chart a way forward.”

“Our agenda for today includes discussions on policy reforms, investment opportunities, community engagement, environmental sustainability, and fostering innovation in the sector.”

Sanwo-Olu signs N2.267tr Appropriation Bill.

Sanwo-Olu signs N2.267tr Appropriation Bill.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has assented to the 2024 Appropriation Bill. 

The governor on December 13, 2023 presented a N2.2 trillion ‘Budget of Renewal’ to the House of Assembly. 

The House, however, increased the total budget size to N2.267 trillion, with N1.315 trillion allocated to capital expenditure and N952 billion allocated to recurrent expenditure. This represents a ratio of 58:42.

Sanwo-Olu, after signing the budget, said: “The approved budget size is N21.743 billion higher than what was presented to the House of Assembly due to additional provisions to enforce completion of ongoing projects. 

“The impact of this appropriation law will be determined by the effectiveness of its implementation. We are determined to ensure that the goals and objectives of this budget are maximally realised for the benefit of all Lagosians and in line with our THEMES+ development agenda. We will work assiduously to ensure the completion of ongoing projects and ensure the effective take off of new ones.

“Let me reiterate the importance of everyone playing their roles in the successful implementation of this budget, especially the commitment of citizens to discharging their civic obligations as and when due. As a government, we will continue to be guided by the highest standards of transparency and accountability in the management of resources put in our care.

“I thank the Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, and all members for their cooperation and commitment, which ensured the expeditious consideration and passage of the budget.”

Present at the signing ceremony were Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, Secretary to the State Government Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, members of the State Executive Council and members of the House of Assembly led by Deputy Speaker Mrs. Mojisola Meranda. 

Eno launches social welfare scheme for A’Ibom elders.

Eno launches social welfare scheme for A’Ibom elders.

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, has floated a social welfare programme tagged ‘ARISE initiative’ aimed at supporting the elderly people across the state.

This was disclosed in a statement on Monday by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr Ekerette Udoh.

According to the CPS, the governor launched the programme on Sunday at the All Nations Christian Ministry International, Eket, saying the initiative was in line with his administration’s plan to build a centre for the elderly “who have laboured for the state for many years and deserve to be honoured and taken care of, while alive.”

Eno, who appreciated the gesture by the President’s wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through the Renewed Hope Initiative where N100,000 was given to 250 elders across the state last Thursday, added that the state under his administration would continue to adopt and support good initiatives such as this, and other programmes that would benefit the generality of Akwa Ibom people.

“Let me state again that even though I am a member of the PDP, I have made up my mind to work with the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.

He explained that through the ARISE Initiative, N50,000 would be given to each of the 500 elders to be selected across the state by the Local Government Transition Chairmen who would carefully carry out the selection process.

The governor tasked the transition chairmen to ensure the programme was carried out with the highest level of transparency so the impact would be felt by as many people as possible.

We'll Protect Nigerians' Rights, Regardless Of Religious, Ethnic Origins.

We'll Protect Nigerians' Rights, Regardless Of Religious, Ethnic Origins.                              .......Lauds efforts on peaceful coexistence among different faiths.

Nigeria's Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has assured that the rights of all Nigerians, regardless of their religious and ethnic beliefs, will be protected under the current administration.

This is even as President General of Jam’iyyatu Ansariddeen (Attijjaniyya) and14th Emir of Kano, Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi Lamido Sanusi II, implored Nigerians to file behind the Tinubu administration to move the country forward.

In a move aimed at promoting unity and tolerance in the country's diverse society, the Vice President emphasized the importance of inclusivity and respect for religious freedom in a nation with a population of over 200 million people divided along religious and ethnic lines.

Senator Shettima made the pledge in Lagos on Saturday during a special prayer organized by the Jam'iyyatu Ansariddeen Attijaniyya of Nigeria in honour of the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.

The VP assured the gathering that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is guided by the message of the day, and is committed to protecting the rights and freedom of all Nigerians, regardless of their beliefs.

“The teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) serve as a compass guiding us through the complexities of a multicultural world. He left us a template to manage a diverse society fairly. He taught us ways to build peace and resolve conflicts through dialogue, through kindness and through tolerance,” he stated.

Delivering his keynote address on the theme, "Searching For A Compass In A Multicultural World,” the Vice President expressed gratitude to Secretary General of the Tijjaniyya International and President of the Jam'iyyatu Ansariddeen Attijaniyya for their exemplary guidance and dedication to preserving moral values.

He called for accountability in deeds and actions, urging all individuals to uphold the Prophet's message of fairness and inclusivity in their daily interactions.

"The teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) offer a beacon of light navigating the complexities of our multicultural world," VP Shettima noted, adding that the Holy Prophet left behind "a roadmap for managing diversity with fairness, building peace through dialogue, and resolving conflicts with kindness and tolerance."

Addressing the challenges faced by the nation, Shettima acknowledged the burden of trust bestowed on President Tinubu by the Nigerian people.

He called for reflection and prayer for the President and other leaders, urging all citizens to remember their purpose in a world filled with trials and distractions.

On behalf of the President and Nigeria's over 200 million people, the VP expressed deep appreciation for the special prayer session held by the Jam'iyyatu Ansariddeen Attijaniyya, where the Quran was recited 4,444 times for Nigeria and its leader.

"In our diverse nation, it is our duty to ensure every Nigerian can practice their religion freely without fear or discrimination. We extend a hand of friendship to the Jam'iyyatu Ansariddeen Attijaniyya, commending your efforts in promoting peaceful coexistence among different religious communities," he stated.

VP Shettima also spoke about the importance of internal transformation as a prerequisite for societal change, saying “as Allah instructed in the Qur’an, we can only guarantee change in our condition if we change that which is within us.”

He urged all Nigerians to lead by example, recognizing their intellectual, spiritual and moral capabilities.

His words: "We are all in search of our roads to redemption. Here, we are offering to build a nation that upholds the dignity of each person, recognizes the rights of each group, and emphasizes the essence of tolerance."

The Vice President called for collective action, stressing the need to build a nation with the bricks of compassion, justice and fairness.

He implored Nigerians to join hands in the spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood in fulfilling the nation's obligations to its people and embracing the Prophet's timeless teachings.

“Our road to the place of hope is strewn with our commitment to building a nation with the bricks of compassion, justice, and fairness. The miracle of this dream rests on our adherence to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, and I urge all Nigerians to join us in the spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood on our long walk to fulfil our obligations to the people,” Shettima said.

Earlier, President General of Jam’iyyatu Ansariddeen (Attijjaniyya), Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi Lamido Sanusi II, implored Nigerians to file behind the Tinubu administration to move the country forward.

Specifically, the 14th Emir of Kano and Khalifa of Tijjaniyya in Nigeria called on politicians, the business community, religious scholars and traditional rulers to focus on Project Nigeria, and work towards rebuilding the nation.

"We are aware that you have taken over this country in a very difficult time, and at this time all Nigerians need to come behind you to end politics and face governance and move Nigeria forward.

"Every year on this occasion we try to complete at least 4,444 recitation of the Qur'an, with the sole intention of praying for the peace and stability of our country, for the protection of our leaders and our people.

"On behalf of the members of Jam’iyyatu Ansariddeen I must recognize and acknowledge all the cooperation and support we have been receiving from the Federal Government, the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, and President Bola Tinubu.

Sanusi particularly thanked the President and the Vice President for the donation of an edifice to the Jam’iyyatu Ansariddeen (Attijjaniyya) in Abuja.

"We will not forget it. We pray to Allah to guide our leaders to give good direction so that they are able to implement policies that, as a nation, will move us forward," he said.

Also, the International Secretary of Jam’iyyatu Ansariddeen (Attijjaniyya) Worldwide, Sheikh Mohammed Lamin Inyass, stressed the need for unity among the Muslim community, adding that Islam commands all Muslims to honour humanity irrespective of tribe or religion.

According to him, a true Muslim is a brother to his fellow Muslim, irrespective of their sect or whatever understanding.

Dignitaries who attended the event include Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; National Secretary of Jam’iyyatu Ansariddeen (Attijjaniyya), Saiyadi Yahaya Al-Qasim, former Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Barr. Mukhtar Abdullahi Mohammed; Sheikh Siraj Inyass; Sheikh Maulud Fall Murtania; Sheikh Buba Inyass, Sheikh Tijjani Sani Auwal and Khalifa Danlami Agege.

Others are Sheikh Adenekan Khaliful Khulafa (South West), Alhaji Ibrahim Bayero, Dan Madamin Kano, Sheikh Faruq Suleman Almiskinubillah, Sheikh Mushri Murtania, Sheikh Abdullahi Uwais, Khalifa Aminubillah Akoshole, Sheikh Nuruddeen Inyass, and Sheikh Shehi Maihula, among others.

Gbonyin LCDA Chairman, Hon. Ajayi, Inaugurates Hon. Wale Oladele as New Secretary, Pledges Commitment to Service Excellence.

Gbonyin LCDA Chairman, Hon. Ajayi, Inaugurates Hon. Wale Oladele as New Secretary, Pledges Commitment to Service Excellence.

In a momentous event on Monday, the 15th of January 2024, the Executive Chairman of Gbonyin Local Council Development Area, Hon. Damilare Ajayi, officiated the inauguration of the newly appointed Secretary, Hon. Wale Oladele. The historic ceremony unfolded at the council's headquarters in Aisegba-Ekiti.

The inauguration proceedings began with the opening remarks delivered by the Council Head of Local Administration (HLA), Mr. Omotayo Titiloye. Expressing gratitude to all attendees, he also acknowledged the prompt approval of the appointment by the Governor. Mr. Titiloye urged the newly appointed secretary to demonstrate unwavering loyalty to the council chairman.

Mr. Omotayo Peter, the Director of Information and Civic Orientation for Gbonyin LCDA, took the stage to briefly highlight the commendable achievements of Chairman Hon. Damilare Ajayi during his initial tenure and praised his leadership.

Following the official oath of office, Chairman Hon. Damilare Ajayi delivered a significant address, advising the new secretary to embody qualities such as loyalty, support, prudence, transparency, and accountability for the overall interest of the people. He expressed gratitude to council workers for their unwavering support and cooperation, recognizing the presence of chiefs, political leaders, party members, Iyaloja and Iyalajes, security personnel, family, and well-wishers.

Chief Anthony Ajila, the Director of Administration (DA) for Gbonyin LCDA, offered words of congratulations and encouragement to the new secretary, urging him to give his best, be ready to sacrifice, and respect authority.

Executive Secretary Hon. Wale Oladele expressed heartfelt appreciation to Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for the appointment. He promised maximum cooperation and collaborative efforts with Chairman Hon. Damilare Ajayi and the entire council management team.

The swearing-in ceremony attracted notable dignitaries, including APC local government party chairman Hon. Tokunbo Akinyeye, APC local council area party leaders, chiefs, Iyaloja and Iyalajes, security personnel, family, friends, well-wishers, Council Vice Chairman Hon. Adebayo Adegoye, Gbonyin LCDA staff, and various dignitaries. Their presence added to the significance of the occasion as they collectively offered prayers for a successful tenure and service delivery.

Education And Healthcare Will Receive More Attention, Tinubu Assures Nigerians.

Education And Healthcare Will Receive More Attention, Tinubu Assures Nigerians.

President Bola Tinubu says his administration will give more attention to education and healthcare, as well as provide the enablements for industrialization and investments in consonance with his vision of creating an economically stable and prosperous country.

Speaking at the second-term inauguration of Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, in Owerri, on Monday, President Tinubu said he is well-attuned to the concerns of citizens, assuring them that the challenges brought on by very essential reforms are being addressed. 

"In the past 40 years, a few people were cornering our common wealth, and calling it subsidy, but I call it wasteful. Right now, we are all bearing and sharing that pain. But things are looking up. Things will get better for the good of all Nigerians. With me, there is hope.

"I assure you that there will be substantial development in education for your children; priority on industrialization; healthcare will receive more allocation and attention. We will train more health workers," the President said.

President Tinubu commended Governor Uzodinma for his stewardship in Imo State, describing him as the "real hope" of the state.

"It is a great honour for me to be here in Imo State. And to congratulate the people of Imo for being discerning and determined to vote into a second term, a very unique individual who resonates with a progressive agenda, Senator Hope Uzodinma," he said.

The President said he is committed to building a united and secure country, noting the peace and security in the state, adding: "Before now, people were afraid of coming to Imo state, but today Imo is safe and open for business. What we have learned from this experience is the importance of unity, cooperation, and a focus on our internal security."

President Tinubu implored the governor to work even harder for the people, emphasizing that hard work is the reward for a re-election.

"I assure you that your hopes are renewed. Be assured of the support of the federal government to ensure rapid development of your state," he concluded.

Speaking after the administration of oaths of office by the Imo State Chief Judge, Justice Theresa Chukwuemeka-Chikeka, Governor Uzodinma pledged that his second tenure would be an uncommon tenure in the execution of policies.

"We have been able to lay a solid foundation for accelerated economic growth and development of our state. We also addressed the decay we met in the civil service, the decay we met in the education sector, and the health sector. In addition, we addressed the lingering problem of unemployment through the variety of youth empowerment initiatives. 

"We carried out a digital version of dealing with the unemployment market, which included the provision of digital and other portable skills, including artificial intelligence to our teeming young men and women," he said. 

Unfolding his priorities, the governor said the next four years of his administration would focus on deepening the shared prosperity mantra through massive infrastructural expansion, adding that the vision of his government is anchored on a 10-year development plan which has the capacity to make the state self-sufficient.