PUNCH holds anniversary lecture, celebrates 50 years of impact.

PUNCH holds anniversary lecture, celebrates 50 years of impact.

Dignitaries from all walks of life trooped out on Thursday to celebrate with PUNCH Nigeria Limited as it held a public lecture as part of events marking its 50th anniversary.

Founded in March 1973, PUNCH, Nigeria’s foremost newspaper, clocked 50 on March 18, 2023, but its Board of Directors moved the 50th-anniversary celebration to this year because the anniversary month fell within an election month and year.

The lecture, held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, was delivered by the Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, who spoke on the theme: ‘Recovering the Narrative’.

It was graced by government officials, media executives, captains of industries, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional rulers, present and former employees of the newspaper, among others.

In attendance were top management staff and members of the company’s board, such as Chairman Emeritus, Chief Ajibola Ogunsola; his wife, Mrs Iyabode Ogunsola; the Chairman, Mrs Angela Emuwa; Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, Mr Adeyeye Joseph; Directors, Dr Olubunmi Aboderin-Talabi, Omoshalewa Aboderin, Mrs Omowunmi Tunde-Obe, and the immediate-past MD and E-in-C, Mr Ademola Osinubi.

At the opening of the event, Tunde-Obe recited the two stanzas of the national anthem to the admiration of the attendees.

Soyinka was invited to the podium by Aboderin-Talabi, who read his citation, as the compere, Ali Baba, added humour and glamour to the event.

In her welcome address, PUNCH Chairman, Emuwa, noted that 50 years was no mean feat, “and we are grateful to all our long-standing partners and audiences for the journey so far.”

According to her, the title of the lecture is not just a theme, it’s a call to action.

She said, “It is a rallying cry for the media and responsible actors to reclaim their rightful place as the guardians of facts, truth and justice, and the voice of the people.

“This is so because, in a world inundated with information, the power to shape narratives is a formidable responsibility and one that should not be taken lightly.”

She added, “As the most widely-read newspaper in the nation, PUNCH has not only been a witness to history but a key player in shaping narratives.

“Our 50-year resilient is a testament to the power of the press in influencing positive change, upholding the values of democracy, and championing the cause of the people.

“We hope that the impact of our 50-year journey will serve as a source of inspiration to all. We have weathered storms, stood against oppression, and championed the cause of justice, and yet we remain unbowed and unbroken.

“Today, I call upon every one of you to join hands in this crucial mission and stand firm as PUNCH goes into the next 50 years doing what it knows how to do best.”

Emuwa expressed the company’s “deepest gratitude to all our friends who have stood by us over the decades.”

She said, “Your support has been invaluable, and it is your belief in our mission that propels us forward.

“A special acknowledgment goes out to all PUNCHERS, both past and present. You are the heart and soul of this institution. Your dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment have been the driving force behind our success.”

Speaking, the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said over the past five decades PUNCH had been a stalwart in journalism, embodying the spirit of integrity and fairness.

Abiodun said the story of PUNCH was that of its founding Chairman, the late Chief James Aboderin, and the legions that had carried on his legacy to date.

“The story cannot be complete without acknowledging the editors, journalists and staff who have tirelessly dedicated themselves to the pursuit of an informed and enlightened society,” he said.

Abiodun also noted that in an era where the media landscape was constantly evolving, PUNCH had consistently adapted, remaining a beacon of reliable information.

“PUNCH Newspaper’s legacy is not only in its longevity but in the impact it has had on shaping the narrative of our nation. Its commitment to investigative journalism and unwavering pursuit of the truth has played a pivotal role in public discourse.

“As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, let us reflect on the power of the press to hold those in power accountable, to give voice to the voiceless and to foster a society built on transparency and accountability,” he said.

The well-attended and colourful event had the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, representing President Bola Tinubu; the Publisher of The Guardian Newspapers Limited, Lady Maiden Ibru; ex-Minister of Industry, Dr Onikepo Akande; ex-Transport Minister, Rotimi Amaechi; representative of the Delta State Governor, Loveth Idisi; Commissioner for Information, Enugu State, Aka Eze Aka, and a former three-time governorship candidate of the PDP in Lagos State, Mr Jimi Agbaje.

The event also had the wife of ex-Kwara State governor, Mrs Toyin Saraki; Bishop of Lagos Diocese, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Ifedola Okupevi, represented by Ven. Adebisi Adebayo; representative of the EFCC Chairman, Mr Micheal Welkast; Senior Special Adviser to the President, Mr. Bayo Onanuga; and the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr Debo Ologunagba.

Also in attendance were the Director-General, National Orientation Agency, Mr Lanre Isa-Onilu; the DG, Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, Dr Olalekan Fadolapo; the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief, New Telegraph Newspapers, Mr. Ayodele Aminu; a veteran actress, Mrs. Taiwo Ajayi Lycett; representative of the Taraba State Governor, Emmanuel Bello; former Minister of Sports, Mr. Sunday Dare; the Registrar of JAMB, Prof Is’haq Oloyede; the VC, Caleb University, Prof Nosa Owens-Ibie; an official in the office of the High Commissioner of Canada, HE Jamie Christoff; Executive Director, CISLAC, Auwal Rafsanjani; former Senior Special Assistant to Ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Garba Shehu; Provost, NIJ, Mr Gbenga Adefaye; and Executive Director, Media Career Development Network, Mr Lekan Otufodunrin.

Other attendees included the Corps Marshall, Federal Road Safety Corps, Dauda Ali-Biu; Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Dr Ahmed Audi; representative of the Chief of Naval Staf, Air Marshall Edward Gabkwet; representative of the Minister of Police Affairs, Bolaji Kazeem;

Others were the Proprietress, Greenwood House School, Ikoyi, Mrs Ekua Abudu-Akinsanya; renowned accountant, Bashorun J.K. Randle; representative of Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshall FCS Uwakara; member, Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon David Ogunniyi, and Chairman, Sun Publishing, Ms Neya Kalu.

The event was also a reunion of sorts for former employees of PUNCH who also attended. They include the former Editor, The PUNCH, Mr Bola Bolawole; former Editor, The PUNCH/former Provost, NIJ, Mr Gbemiga Ogunleye; former Editor, Sunday PUNCH, Casmir Igbokwe; former Editor, The PUNCH, Mr Martin Ayankola; ex-Manager, Training and Language Control, Mr Seth Akintoye; former Chairman, Punch Editorial Board; Mr Segun Adediran; former Editor, Saturday PUNCH; Dr Olabisi Deji-Folutile, former Assistant Editor (Politics), The PUNCH, Semiu Okanlawon; and former Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Mr Bayo Alabidun; and Mr Muyiwa Adetiba, among others.

The week-long 50th-anniversary celebration and 40th remembrance of the passing of the founding Chairman of Punch Nigeria Limited, the late Chief Olu Aboderin, began last Saturday with a colourful novelty football match at the Onikan Stadium in Lagos.

On Wednesday, a three-day photo exhibition, showcasing iconic photographs from PUNCH’s rich archive, opened at the Alliance Francaise de Lagos/Mike Adenuga Centre in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Zulum flags off food distribution to alleviate sufferings in Borno.

Zulum flags off food distribution to alleviate sufferings in Borno.

....100,000 households to benefit in Maiduguri, Jere.

...200,000 households targeted, including 7 LGAs in Southern Borno.

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has begun the distribution of food items to over 100,000 households in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and Jere Local Government Area. The distribution aims to alleviate the hardship caused by the rising costs of essential commodities in the state. Governor Zulum officially kicked off the distribution at the Maiduguri Sports Centre, where each household received a 25kg bag of rice and another bag of maize.

Speaking to journalists, Governor Zulum emphasized the importance of continuous support to the people in order to address the prevailing hardship. He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to prioritize the welfare of the people, particularly those facing extreme difficulties due to the Boko Haram insurgency. Governor Zulum also acknowledged the global nature of the current economic crisis, extending its impact to Borno State.

Furthermore, Governor Zulum announced that the distribution of palliatives would be extended from 100,000 households to over 200,000 families, covering additional areas including seven local government areas in southern Borno. He explained that communities affected by insurgency often experience food shortages due to limited access to agricultural land. Governor Zulum assured the residents that palliative distribution would continue as long as he remains in office, while also investing in agriculture to address the underlying causes of food crisis.

Governor Zulum urged those without a means of livelihood to engage in agriculture and promised them necessary support, such as free buses, agricultural inputs, and cash assistance. He also highlighted the agricultural schemes implemented by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and emphasized Borno State's commitment to strengthening irrigation and commercial farming.

However, Governor Zulum sternly warned against individuals attempting to disrupt peacebuilding efforts or exploit the food crisis for political gain. He stated that anyone who incites public disturbances or politicizes the food crisis would face severe consequences.

Under Governor Zulum's administration, Borno State has been distributing food palliatives since 2011, and the government will continue to do its best to mitigate the effects of hardship on its citizens. The governor urged the public to exercise patience and assured them that the government is actively addressing the crisis.

Traders seek governor’s help to stop market takeover.

Traders seek governor’s help to stop market takeover.

White Sand Market traders in Lagos Mainland have appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to stop alleged bid by the council to take over the market.

.Their leader, Alhaja Sherifat Thanni, said the council Chairman, Mrs Omolola Essien, threatened to take over the market despite a court order.

Thanni said Justice Akinkunmi Idowu of the High Court directed them to meet with her for settlement, adding they did not get a response to their letter requesting a meeting.

The court, in suit LD/7078GCM/23, restrained the council and attorney-general from taking over the market pending determination of the suit.

Thanni said in 2001, council sought to rebuild the market, which they built themselves and had been maintaining.

They said council brought in another contractor in 2014 to reconstruct the drainage, for which they paid N20 milllion.

For some reason, the project was not done and was left for the traders to handle yet again.

“Now the council said they want to demolish the market because of the drainage. We are tired of their extortion…” Thanni said.

 The traders urged the governor to ensure the contractor completed the drainage work they paid for.

They also want Sanwo-Olu to intervene in the continuous threat by the council to take over the market.

Lagos Red Line rail will boost economy – Minister.

Lagos Red Line rail will boost economy – Minister.

The Minister of Transport, Sa’id Alkali, has urged other states to emulate Lagos, saying the success of its Red Line Rail project exemplified collaboration between the federal and state governments.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Alkali said collaborative efforts between the federal and state governments enhanced the well-being of the nation and its economy.

At the official commissioning of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Red Line on Thursday by President Bola Tinubu, the minister also pledged the support of the ministry to the Lagos State government.

He added that the ministry would work together with some state governors to achieve railway connection to enable choice of transportation for passengers, urging the governors to emulate Lagos.

The minister said, “I assure you that the Federal Ministry of Transportation is committed to providing support and expertise to consolidate this laudable achievement.

“Today’s inauguration is a singular promise in achieving this milestone in our administration. This will lead to high connectivity, improve livelihood, boost trade and improve visibility.

“The Federal Ministry of Transportation will support the realisation of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President,” he said.

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun, commended Nigeria for giving them the opportunity to complete the Blue Line project.

Jianchun said, “Mr President, today in China we celebrate an auspicious day which is a symbol of good things, and this shows that the commencement of the Red Line project today will be more successful.

“I also congratulate Mr President for making the 20-year project completed and we also want to use this opportunity to improve more on infrastructure and technology.

“There is a need to improve more on security which will improve the country’s economic Gross Domestic Product generation.”

The Deputy Governor, Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, said the commissioning of the project would not have been possible without President Tinubu’s vision during his tenure as governor of Lagos with the establishment of the Lagos State Metropolitan Area Transport Authority.

NAN reports that the Red Line project is a 37km rail route from Agbado to Marina with stations at Agbado, Iju, Agege, Ikeja, Oshodi, Mushing, Yaba, Oyingbo, Iddo, Ebute Ero and Marina.

Tinubu commends outgoing Immigration CG.

Tinubu commends outgoing Immigration CG.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the outgoing Comptroller-General of Immigration Service (CGIS), Caroline Wura-Ola Adepoju, for exceptional service to the country.

During the pull-out parade ceremony in Abuja on Thursday, Minister of Interior Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo expressed gratitude to the retiring immigration boss for successful implementation of reforms, clearing passport backlogs, and enhancing security at border posts.

The Minister said: “On behalf of the President of Nigeria, I extend appreciation to the outgoing Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service for her outstanding contributions. She not only elevated the standards of the Service but also positively impacted millions in our society.

“Conceiving ideas is one thing, but executing them flawlessly is another. I commend you for your role in implementing the reforms we collaborated on, including clearing over 200,000 passport backlogs within two weeks.

“Additionally, the imminent launch of the command-and-control center, alongside revamped security measures at our border posts, reflects our joint commitment to enhancing national security.

“I am particularly grateful for your exemplary leadership. Throughout your tenure, not once did I encounter a crisis that required my intervention. You fostered a sense of unity within your team, treating them like family”.

Adepoju expressed gratitude to God, the President, the Minister of Interior, colleagues, and Nigerians for their support.

She praised her team, declaring them the best ever assembled by the Nigeria Immigration Service and urged support for ongoing reforms, ensuring citizens’ respite in passport acquisition.

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to God, the President, and all stakeholders for their support throughout my tenure. It’s been an honour to lead the Nigeria Immigration Service, and I commend my dedicated team for their hard work and commitment.

“As I bid farewell, I urge my successors to continue the positive reforms we initiated for the benefit of our nation and its citizens. Under the leadership of the Minister of Interior, we have made significant strides in improving passport acquisition and enhancing border security.

“I’m confident that the incoming leadership, under Comptroller General Kemi Nana Nandap, will further advance the service and uphold its values,” Adepoju said.

Incoming Comptroller General, Kemi Nana Nandap, lauded the outgoing CGIS for her outstanding contributions, describing her tenure as marked by diligence, sacrifice, and selflessness.

Nandap said: “Today, we celebrate the remarkable career of outgoing CGIS Wura-Ola Adepoju, whose dedication and leadership have left an indelible mark on the Nigeria Immigration Service.”

The event saw attended by the Secretary of the Civil Defence, Correctional Fire and Immigration Board, Ahmed Ja’Afaru, Chairman House Committee on Interior, Ahmed Abdullahi, the Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, former Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, the Director Joint Service in the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Peter Egbodo, among others.

Ekiti First Lady Rallies Support Of Female Traditional Chiefs For Oyebanji.

Ekiti First Lady Rallies Support Of Female Traditional Chiefs For Oyebanji. 

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji has solicited the support of Ekiti Female Traditional Chiefs for Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s led Administration. 

She made this known during a meeting with the traditional female Chiefs from the 16 local government areas and the 22 local council development areas of the state in her office in Ado-Ekiti.  

Dr. Oyebanji promised to always carry the female chiefs along in the activities of her office saying they are the representatives of female folks at the grassroots, hence the need for them to be part of the government activities. 

The Governor’s wife used the medium to appeal to the women to cooperate with the government by counselling the market women to bring down the prices of food and other essential commodities in the market. 

She assured that the present economic hardship is just for a while, appealing to residents of the State to cooperate with the government by ensuring that life was made easier for common man. 

Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Peju Babafemi appreciated the female chiefs for their support for the government. 

The Commissioner who spoke through the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Tayo Olatiilu urged the female chiefs to always make themselves available for women's activities in the State especially the ones that would be organized by the ministry.

Also speaking, the President of the Association, Chief Mrs Iyabo Idowu, Eyelua of Orun-Ekiti, promised that the female chiefs and other women in Ekiti would continue to support the present administration in the state.

There were goodwill messages from the Special Adviser to the governor on Gender Mobilization and Empowerment, Mrs. Kemisola Olaleye and other government officials.

Senate extends retirement age of NASS staff to 65.

Senate extends retirement age of NASS staff to 65.

The Senate on Thursday, February 29, passed a Bill that seeks to add five years to the retirement age of staff of the National Assembly Service.

If the Bill is signed into law, staff of the National Assembly Service would now retire at age 65 years instead of 60 years and 40 years in service instead of 35 years.

The Bill titled: “A Bill for an Act to Make Provisions for the Retirement Age of Staff of National Assembly Service and for Other Related Matters, 2024,” transmitted to the Senate from the House of Representatives for concurrence was last week stepped down by the red chamber to allow for further consultation.

In reintroducing the Bill, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, said the needed consultations had been done and the Bill was now fit for passage.

The Nation earlier reported that there was tension among staff of the National Assembly over the planned extension of the tenure of the current Clerk, Sani Magaji Tambawal, and over 200 staff due for retirement in November this year would have their tenures extended by five years.

However, the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), in a statement in Abuja endorsed the Bill.