Tinubu’ll transform judiciary to drive economic growth – AGF.

Tinubu’ll transform judiciary to drive economic growth – AGF.

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has assured Nigerians that President Bola Tinubu would transform the judiciary to drive economic growth, investment drive, and revenue generation.

He also stated that under the President, the judiciary would render non-kinetic support to the security and defence architecture.

Speaking on Thursday in Abuja at a retreat organised for officials of the Federal Ministry of Justice and its agencies, Fagbemi challenged the officials to be prepared to break from routine official engagements to provide a platform to achieve their mandates.

Fagbemi said, “The present administration has eight priorities and eight focus areas. The Federal Ministry of Justice, by its mandate speaks to Priority 3 (Economic growth and Job Creation), Priority 5 (Inclusivity; Drawing on all Skills Base); Priority 6 (Security); Priority 7 (Fairness and Rule of Law); and Priority 8 (Anti-Corruption Stance). The Ministry also speaks to the eighth (8th) Focus Area of Government, which is Improved Governance for Effective Service Delivery.

“It is worthy of note that the justice sector is pivotal to the attainment of the objectives of other sectors, as well as attaining the universal role of the law as a veritable enabler for development.

“Particularly, the justice sector is a key catalyst or stimulator for economic growth, investment drive, and revenue generation, among others. Traditionally, the sector renders non-kinetic support to the security/defence architecture of the country.”

He sought the cooperation of the staff of the ministry as well as agencies and parastatals under him, towards achieving the Performance agreement signed between ministers and the president.

Otti appoints Okonjo-Iweala, Sanusi others into economic council.

Otti appoints Okonjo-Iweala, Sanusi others into economic council.

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, on Thursday, inaugurated the Abia Global Economic Advisory Council as part of his administration’s strategic plan to ensure the overall economic development of the state.

Members of the 19-man team aimed at building Abia into a self-sustaining economic hub, include Ms. Arunma Oteh, Khaleefa Sanusi II and Mr. Bolaji Balogun, as co-chairmen.

Other members are Mr. Victor Onyenkpa, Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui Okauru, Mr. Chidi Ajaegbu, Mr. Uche Orji, Mrs. Ndidi Nwuneli, Mr. Chika Nwobi, Dr. Olugbenga Adesida, Prof. Ndubuisi Ekekwe, Mazi Clement Owunna, Dr. Uzodinma Iweala, Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor, Mr. George Agu, and Mazi Uzo Nwankwo, Mr Chinedu Azodoh, while also making the list are Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Dr. Benedict Oramah as Honourary Advisors.

The governor said the five members, drawn from the State Executive Council, will represent the government on the Advisory Council.

They include the Governor; Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna; Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Kingsley Anosike; Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Michael Akpara; and Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Industry, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu.

Otti said the economy of the state had suffered neglect and became fragile due to untold economic sabotage, over the years, stating that “as a new government, a new dawn is before us.

“As a government, we do not know it all and that is why we are seeking guidance from those who know,” assuring them that the council will work with the state government to see how to impact long-term economic prospects in the state and to turn the state into a robust major player in world economic dawn.”

Otti said, “This day marks the beginning of a new era and we shall never look back.

“Our programmes are already re-positioning and rebuilding Abia State as the economic pride of Nigeria. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that its economic development strategy is founded not only on a thorough understanding of the local economic environment but also on the dynamics of the emerging forces now shaping the future of the global economy.

“The newly appointed members bring a wealth of experience and expertise in various sectors, enhancing the diversity and dynamism of the Abia State Global Economic Advisory Council. Their collective knowledge will play a pivotal role in shaping policies that drive innovation, attract investments, form solid partnerships, and ensure the overall economic resilience of our great state”.

The council will be managed by the Principal Secretary to the Governor/Chief Strategy Officer, Mr. Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu, and the Technical Assistant to the Governor, Mr. Charles Egonye, who will both be supported by Mrs. Victoria Onwubiko and Ms Amaka Okonkwo from the private sector.

The Abia State Global Economic Advisory Council serves as a key advisory body, offering strategic insights and recommendations to guide the state’s economic and investment policies.

The Advisers will collaborate closely with the relevant state commissioners to address the unique challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, ensuring that the state remains at the forefront of innovation and economic development within the region and globally.

In her overview of the council, a co-chair, Oteh said Otti gathered them “not only to give advice but also to hold him accountable on the global business” and expressed her hope that Otti will be open and take the council’s advice.

Another co-chair, Balogun, described Otti as a man of history, stating, “If Abia succeeds, Nigeria succeeds,” while the third co-chair – Khaleefa Sanusi II, advised the governor “to give advice is one thing and to implement is another,” adding that the state has a listening governor in the capacity of Otti and the Chief Marketing officer of the state and a Banker that knows his target, assuring that the council will do its best.

The Pillars of Progress: Tolerance, Unity, and Love in Society Development.

The Pillars of Progress: Tolerance, Unity, and Love in Society Development.

Friday 19th January, 2024.

By Olamide Akinwumi J.

In the tapestry of human civilization, woven through the threads of time, tolerance, unity, and love stand as the foundational pillars that uphold the edifice of societal development. These virtues, when embraced and nurtured, become the bedrock upon which communities flourish, prosper, and endure the tests of time.

●Tolerance: A Bridge to Harmony.

Tolerance, often regarded as the ability to accept differences and diversity, acts as a bridge that connects individuals with varied backgrounds, beliefs, and perspectives. In a world teeming with diverse cultures, religions, and ideologies, fostering tolerance becomes paramount for the coexistence of communities.

Embracing tolerance means acknowledging the richness that diversity brings to the tapestry of society. It is the recognition that differences in race, religion, ethnicity, and opinions do not weaken but strengthen the social fabric. Tolerance breeds understanding, dismantling barriers that hinder progress and paving the way for collaborative efforts.

●Unity: The Collective Strength.

Unity emerges as the collective strength drawn from individuals joining forces for a common purpose. When a society unites, it harnesses the combined potential of its members, creating a force greater than the sum of its parts. This collective strength becomes a catalyst for societal advancement.

A united society channels its energies towards shared goals, be it economic prosperity, social justice, or technological innovation. It is the synergy of diverse talents and perspectives converging towards a common objective that propels societies forward. Unity fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, instilling resilience in the face of challenges.

●Love: The Catalyst for Compassion.

Love, the most profound and transformative of human emotions, acts as a catalyst for compassion and empathy. When love permeates the social fabric, individuals are more inclined to care for the well-being of others. It transcends self-interest, inspiring acts of kindness, generosity, and altruism.

In a society where love prevails, individuals are motivated to contribute to the common good. Love forms the basis for strong interpersonal relationships, fostering a sense of community and mutual support. It is the driving force behind initiatives that address societal issues, promoting social welfare and justice.

●The Interconnected Triad:

Tolerance, unity, and love do not exist in isolation; they are interconnected elements that reinforce each other. Tolerance paves the way for unity by accepting and appreciating diversity, while unity strengthens the bonds that allow love to flourish. This interdependence forms a dynamic equilibrium that sustains societal development.

As societies navigate the complexities of the modern world, the significance of these virtues becomes increasingly evident. Embracing tolerance, fostering unity, and nurturing love are not just moral imperatives; they are pragmatic steps towards building resilient, inclusive, and progressive societies.

In conclusion, the triumvirate of tolerance, unity, and love serves as the bedrock upon which the edifice of societal development stands. As individuals and communities cultivate these virtues, they contribute to the creation of a harmonious and thriving tapestry that defines the essence of human progress.

Comr. Olamide Akinwumi James is a Public Relations Specialist, Content Creator and Journalist. He can be reached through: Akinwumiolamide09@gmail.com, 09068215955.

Osun gov sacks three monarchs, orders fresh selection process.

Osun gov sacks three monarchs, orders fresh selection process.

Osun State Government has ordered a fresh selection process to fill the stools of Aree of Iree and Owa of Igbajo, having nullified the initial processes.

The government also declared the stool of Akinrun of Ikirun, Oba Olalekan Akadiri vacant, calling on all parties to wait to determine a suit on the stool currently pending before the Court of Appeal.

A statement by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, obtained on Thursday, said government decisions on the stools were contained in six White Papers on various committees that investigated issues raised by the executive orders issued by the governor, Ademola Adeleke, at the inception of the administration in November 2022.

Adeleke had reversed the appointments of all royal fathers appointed by his predecessor, Adegboyega Oyetola, at the twilight of his tenure.

Some communities across the state where this happened experienced unrest, leading to the loss of at least one life and the destruction of valuables.

He specifically directed Aree of Iree, Oba Ademola Raphael, Owa of Igbajo, Oba Gboyegba Famoodun and Akinrun of Ikirun, Oba Akadiri, to vacate their palaces and ordered investigations into the processes that produced them as monarchs.

The statement by Alimi partly read, “By the report of the White Paper, all previous steps taken concerning the installation of Aree of Iree and Owa of Igbajo stands nullified. And that the all-inclusive selection process (es) for a new Aree of Iree and Owa of Igbajo, respectively, should commence immediately.

“Specifically on Aree of Iree Chieftaincy, the substantive chiefs are enjoined to withdraw their suit before the court to allow for the commencement of the selection process in line with due process and tradition.

“And on the stool of Owa of Igbajo, the White Paper nullified the previous selection process which produced Prince Gboyega Famodun and directed an all-inclusive selection process for a new Owa nominee.

“On the disputed Akirun stool, the White Paper directed that the parties await the outcome of the case before the Court of Appeal. And that the stool remains vacant.

“On other disputed kingship stools, the white paper further recommended compliance with the requirements of the law as in the Alawo stool where the government accepted the committee recommendation that the government should await the outcome of the pending suit before the Supreme Court.”

The government also directed the setting up of a task force for the recovery of government vehicles allegedly taken away by the officials of the immediate past administration in the state.

Lagos pays N57bn to 16,340 retirees.

Lagos pays N57bn to 16,340 retirees.

The Lagos State government has paid N57.7bn to 16,340 pension benefits to retirees since May 2019 till date.

This was revealed by the Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr Afolabi Ayantayo, during the 102nd batch of the retirement bond certificate presentation ceremony to retirees of the Lagos State Public Service.

He said, “Let me use this occasion to thank Mr Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, under his administration, the Lagos State Government has paid over N57.7bn to 16,340 retirees in the Mainstream, Local Government, State Universal Basic Board, Teaching Service Commission and other Parastatals of the State Government from May 2019 till date.

“Furthermore, Mr Governor has paid accrued pension rights of N1.26bn only into the Retirement Savings Accounts of 605 retirees this month, alongside their monthly contributions.”

The Director-General, Lagos State Pension Commission, Mr Babalola Obilana, thanked Sanwo-Olu for his commitment to the welfare of the people of Lagos State, saying, “He has continuously prioritised the needs of pensioners and approved policies to ease the financial burden on retirees.”

The director-general also thanked its stakeholders, the PFAs/insurance companies for their efforts towards the success of the Contributory Pension Scheme.

He said, “To our dear retirees, life after retirement is a transition from the hustle and bustle of a professional life to the serene embrace of well-earned leisure. Please remember that your contributions will always be cherished, and your impact will endure. May your days be filled with the joy of newfound freedom and the satisfaction of a well-lived professional journey.”

Agric ministry to supply 40% residents’ food needs.

Agric ministry to supply 40% residents’ food needs.

The Lagos State Government, on Thursday, said its goal in the agriculture sector was to supply 40 per cent of the food needs of residents of the state to achieve food security in the state.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Dr Oluwarotimi Fashola, stated this at the Lagos Food Systems Stakeholders’ Breakfast Meeting, held on Thursday at Protea Hotels, Alausa, Ikeja.

The programme, which was organised by the state’s Ministry of Agriculture, was aimed at keeping stakeholders in the sector abreast of developments in the ministry and its plans for the year 2024.

“The ultimate goal is that 40 per cent of our food needs, including rice, will be supplied to the system. 40 per cent gives us food security, not 100 per cent. If we can guarantee 40 per cent of our food needs; rice, tomato, yam, everything, which is part of why the logistic hub is very important to us; then we can rest assured that whatever happens, we are covered. That is the goal, that is objective we are working towards and I’m sure that we’ll get there,” Fashola said.

Giving updates on the operations of the Imota Rice Mill since its inauguration on January 22, 2023, the special adviser noted that about 120,000 bags of rice were produced at the mill in 2023, with the state selling a bag at N30,000 and later at N45,000 in December when market prices were N40,000 and N63,000 respectively.

“We started off by the generosity of Mr Governor selling a bag at N30,000 last year, at the beginning of the season, at the time the market price was N40,000. By December of last year, when we decided that we should move to N45,000, the market price was N63,000,” he said, adding that the state-produced rice is currently sold at N52,000 as against the N60,000 market price.

Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms Abisola Olusanya, highlighted the ministry’s plans towards ensuring food security in the state to include: the Lagos Red Meat Initiative; the Lagos Agri Business Support; the Lagos Food Systems Champions of the Future; and Lagos as Food Value Chains’ Destination, among others.

IG presents N2bn to families of deceased cops in Abuja.

IG presents N2bn to families of deceased cops in Abuja.

The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, on Thursday, presented N2.08bn cheques to families of police officers who died in active service in the last five years.

Presenting the cheques to 785 beneficiaries at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, Egbetokun noted that no amount of money could equate to the lives of the deceased cops.

The money is a Group Life Assurance and IGP Family Welfare Scheme package.

Egbetokun said, “We appreciate the stewardship of President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s commitment towards the well-being of police officers, and we urge the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the money.

“We understand that no amount of money can bring back the lives of the officers lost, but this will help to cushion the effects of the gaps left behind.”

The Force Insurance Officer, CSP Lydia Ameh, stated that the cheque disbursement was made possible due to the paternal affection of the IG.

She said, “My sincere appreciation goes to the Inspector-General of Police, whose commitment, valued guidance, and extraordinary leadership role are crucial in ensuring that the Force cleared pending insurance claims which has resulted in the presentation of Group Life Assurance and IGP Family Welfare Scheme cheques to 785 next of kins/beneficiaries of our brave officers and men who lost their lives while on active duty for the Insurance Policy Years of 2015/2016, 2017/2018, 2021/2022, and 2022/2023, amounting to N2,086,801,144.79 which will go a long way to alleviate the sufferings of the families of our departed colleagues.

“While I share the feelings of the families of our deceased officers and men, I wish to express my gratitude to the inspector-general of police and his management team for their efforts which extend beyond procurement of the 2022/2023 insurance policy but include the complete settlement of all pending payments from previous years.”

Meanwhile, one of the beneficiaries, Donald Awunah jnr, son of a former Force Public Relations Officer, AIG Donald Awunah, who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries, appreciated IG Egbetokun for his kind gesture and prioritizing the welfare of the families of the fallen heroes