Sport

Commonwealth Games: PMB Hails Team Nigeria

By Web News 422

President Muhammadu Buhari has joined millions of other sports-loving Nigerians in celebrating the athletes that represented Nigeria gloriously in the 22nd Commonwealth Games, Birmingham 2022.

The president also watched some of the colourful and spectacular moments in the 11-day competition, with no fewer than 5,000 athletes representing 72 nations and territories, competing in 280 medal events.

In a statement by his spokesman, Mr. Femi Adesina, on Sunday in Abuja, Buhari saluted the impressive display of Team Nigeria athletes.

The President commended the 94 worthy ambassadors that proudly flew the Nigerian flag in nine sporting events, and for those exciting moments when the medalists brought smiles to citizens’ faces by breaking world, national, and games records, as well as achieving personal bests in their career.

With 35 medals, including 12 gold, 9 silver, and 14 bronze harvested already on the late evening of the 10th day of the games. More medals are likely for the country on the last day, the President thanks the shining stars of Nigeria for competing among the best in the world and displaying the God-given attributes of the real Nigerian-never give up, strive to the end.

According to the President, it is noteworthy that the majority of the medals so far, including 12 gold for the country, were championed by Nigeria’s talented young women and girls, including multi-medalist, Tobi Amusan, 100m Women’s Hurdle and 4x100m Relay, Favour Ofili, Rosemary Chukwuma, Grace Nwokocha, 4x100m Relay, Miesinnei Mercy Genesis, 50 kg, Blessing Oborududu, 57 kg, and Odunayo Adekuoroye, 57kg, in Women’s Freestyle wrestling, as well as Adijat Adenike Olarinoye, 55kg, and Rafiatu Folashade Lawal, 59kg, in Women’s weightlifting.

Other gold medalists are Folashade Oluwafemiayo, Women’s heavyweight Para Powerlifting, Eucharia Iyiazi, Women’s shotput, Chioma Onyekwere, and Goodness Nwachukwu in Women’s Discus throw, and Ese Brume, long jump.

The President also lauds the coaching crew and team officials for their passion towards the development of sports in the country, assuring them that history will remember them for all their contributions to making the athletes shine in the international arena.

Frcn Abuja/Titilayo Kupoliyi

Lifestyle

Buhari Mourns Former IGP, Tafa Balogun

By Web News 410

President Muhammadu Buhari has condoled with family, friends, and associates mourning the death of former Inspector General of Police, Mustapha Balogun.

He also mourned with the Nigeria Police Force, an institution he said Balogun spent the better part of his life serving.

Buhari’s condolence message is contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, titled ‘President Buhari mourns former IGP, Tafa Balogun.’

Adesina said, “The President recalls that Tafa Balogun, during his tenure as IGP, did his utmost to ensure that the police performed its statutory responsibilities under a democratic dispensation; and his penchant for boosting the morale of officers and men in the Force has been acknowledged by those who served under him.

“President Buhari’s thoughts are with the family, the government and people of Osun State, as well as colleagues and former colleagues of the deceased police chief.”

He, therefore, prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the departed.

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Politics

Buhari Attends Liberia’s 175th Independence Anniversary

By Web News 518

President Muhammadu Buhari departs Abuja today (Tuesday) for Monrovia, Liberia, to attend the 175th independence anniversary celebrations of the country.

The President, who will be the Special Guest of Honour at the event, joins other world leaders and organisations to rejoice with the people of Liberia at the event with the theme, Fostering Unity, Protecting Our Peace for Development and Prosperity.

Nigeria played a leading role in the stabilisation of the West African nation in the early 90s, leading to the establishment of democratic rule.

A statement by the Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, says Nigeria has continued to assist Liberia in many ways, especially through the Technical Aids Corps Scheme.

In 2019, President Buhari was conferred with the highest national honour in the country, the Grand Cordon in the Most Venerable Order of Knighthood of the Pioneers of the Republic of Liberia, in recognition of Nigeria’s continued support for the development of the country.

President Buhari who will be accompanied on the trip by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, and Director-General, National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, is expected back in the country later on the same day.

Abdullah Bello/Daniel Adejo

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Transportation

Buhari Appoints Biu as Acting FRSC Marshal

By Web News 529

President Muhammadu Buhari has appointed the Deputy Corps Marshal, Finance and Accounts, Federal Road Safety Corps, Dauda Biu, as the acting Corps Marshal as Boboye Oyeyemi bowed out of service on July 24.

This was contained in a statement by the Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Bisi Kazeem, on Monday, in Abuja.

The Former Corps Marshal of the FRSC who said this at the handing-over ceremony explained that President Buhari appointed Biu as the acting CM with effect from July 24, wishing him a successful tenure as he assumed office.

Speaking, the board Chairman, Mallam Bukhari Bello, congratulated the appointed Ag. CM, urging him to sustain the tempo and ensure the mandates of the corps were acted upon.

Bello said that the former Corps Marshal, Oyeyemi, laid a good foundation and legacy, urging the appointed acting CM to carry out the vision effectively.

The Ag Corps Marshal appreciated the management of the FRSC and the Presidency for the appointment, pledging his diligence and zeal in carrying out the FRSC mandate effectively.

He promised not to let the system down, adding that he would strive that the mandate of the FRSC was pursued vigorously in line with the objective.

Biu, until his appointment as the Acting Corps Marshal, was the Deputy Corps Marshal, Finance and Account, at the FRSC headquarters, joined the FRSC precisely in 1988 and had a fruitful career working across several formations.

He holds a Master degree in Business Administration from Ahmadu Bello University and was the Assistant Corps Marshal, Finance and Accounts in 2014 before becoming the DCM in 2016.

Highlights of the event were the attendance of important dignitaries, transport sectors, Wole Soyinka, Secretary-General to the Federation, Boss Mustapha among others.

The Former Corps Marshal, FRSC, Boboye Oyeyemi, had retired on Sunday, July 24 from service.

He remains the first Corps Marshal to be pulled out of service and the last founding father of the Corps.

Punch/ Adebukola Aluko

Religion

Eid Message: I will not rest until I bring relief to Nigerians – PMB

By Web News 393

President Muhammadu Buhari has again reassured that his administration would  continue to address the current security challenges and costs of living in the country, saying ”I won’t rest until I bring relief to Nigerians.”

The President’s media aide, Malam Garba Shehu in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja said the president gave the assurance in his Eid-el Kabir message to Nigerian Muslims and other citizens.

“I am quite aware of the difficulties people are facing and working to resolve them,” the President added.

He, however, urged Nigerians to put the  interest of the country above selfish interests and “use religion as a motivation for the love of our common humanity.”

Buhari said “if we are putting the teachings of our religions into practice, most of the evils afflicting our society would have been solved.”

He frowned at the exploitation of the people by traders and the stealing of public funds by civil servants and other holders of public trust, saying these negative  vices were  reflections of the abandonment of the teachings of our religions.

“Our society is a bundle of contradictions. People display external religiosity without fear of God; they make life difficult for others; money becomes their god; leaders abandon their oaths of office by taking money meant for the welfare of the people and divert it to their private pockets,” he said.

Buhari congratulated the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and the world on the occasion of the Eid,  citing for special mention, “the brave men and women in uniform fighting terror on many fronts and their families,  as well as others held hostage and kept away from their families by wicked and heartless terrorists.”

He used the occasion to call on all Muslims to reflect on the significance of the sacrifice epitomised by Eid.

”We should show love and care to our neighbours and others while celebrating this spiritually important event in our lives,” he said.

President Buhari also advised Muslims “to promote the good virtues of Islam through personal examples and practice.

The President expressed the hope that this Eid would be a source of blessing, peace, prosperity and safety for all Nigerians, stressing that coexistence and stability would prevail in the country .

Vanguard / Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

News

Buhari Joins Counterparts in Dakar for Africa Summit

By Web News 501

President Muhammadu Buhari will depart Abuja to participate in the International Development Association, IDA, for Africa Summit in President Muhammadu Buhari, Senegal.

An institution of the World Bank Group, IDA, is deepening its support to drive a resilient recovery for countries hit by the global crises of climate and Covid-19.

Also in its focus are countries with growing levels of insecurity and more recently, by the impact of the war in Ukraine, through its historic $93 billion 20th replenishment cycle, IDA20, which goes into effect between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2025.

At the high-level event slated for Thursday, and hosted by President Macky Sall of the Republic of Senegal, President Buhari is expected to join other African leaders in an open dialogue on development challenges and priorities, as well as transformational initiatives that will lead to an outcome document, the Dakar Declaration.

​According to the Presidency, the committee is expected to chart a way forward for the transformation of the economies of the target nations in partnership with the World Bank/IDA.

Topics slated for discussion include Financing for Recovery and Economic Transformation in Africa, Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security, Human Capital, Digital and Technological Innovation, and Energy Transition and Climate Change.

The President will be accompanied on the trip by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Finance, Budget and National Planning, as well as Industry, Trade and Investment.

Others on the entourage are the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Director-General, National Intelligence Agency, Director-General, Debt Management Office, and the Managing Director of the Bank of Industry.

President Buhari is expected back to the country at the end of the Summit.

Frcn Abuja / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Politics

Senate Confirms 7 Ministerial Nominees

By Web News 501

The Senate has confirmed seven persons nominated as ministers by President Muhammadu Buhari Presided over by the Senate President, Ahmed Lawal, the nominees were confirmed on Wednesday following screening by the upper chamber.

The development came days after President Buhari appointed the ministers and wrote to the Senate, seeking their confirmation.

Four of the newly-confirmed ministers are from four south-east states; with one appointee each from the north-west, south-west, and south-south regions.

The new appointees include Henry Ikechukwu – Abia State, Umana Okon Umana – Akwa-Ibom State, Ekuma Joseph – Ebonyi State, Goodluck Nana Obia – Imo State, Umar Ibrahim Yakub – Kano State, Ademola Adewole Adegorioye – Ondo State, and Odo Udi – Rivers State.

They were named following the resignation of some cabinet members who quit their positions to seek elective posts in the just-concluded primary elections of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

A former governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi; ex-Akwa Ibom governor, Godswill Akpabio; Ogbonnaya Onu and Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba were among ministers who resigned to contest for the APC presidential ticket – which none of them won.

Their resignation was in line with the provisions of Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act which mandates that “no political appointee at any level shall be a voting delegate or be voted for at the convention or congress of any political party for the purpose of the nomination of candidates for any election”.

FRCN Abuja

Judiciary

Ariwoola Now Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria

By Web News 670

Following the resignation of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Tanko Muhammad, President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday, swore in Justice Olukayode Ariwoola as Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria.

The swearing-in took place at the Council Chambers of the State House, Abuja.

Justice Ariwoola, who is the most senior Justice of the Supreme Court was formerly a Justice of the Court of Appeal before being elevated to the Supreme Court bench in 2011.

 He was born on August 22, 1958, and hails from Oyo State.

Justice Ariwoola will serve in an acting capacity until confirmed by the Senate under President Buhari’s request.

Former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Tanko Muhammad suddenly resigned on Monday morning for an undisclosed health issue.

The President also conferred on the outgoing CJN, the National Honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger.

Among those in attendance were Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba, other Justices of the Supreme Court, Director-General of the State Security Service, Yusuf Bichi.

Culled / Olaitan Oye- Adeitan

Politics

FG Loses Suit on Electoral Law

By Web News 467

The Supreme Court has struck out a suit by President Muhammadu Buhari and the Attorney General of the Federation challenging Section 84(12) of the Electoral Act.

In a unanimous judgement delivered by Justice Emmanuel Agim on Friday, the apex court said allowing the suit would amount to approbating and reprobating at the same time.

Justice Agim, who delivered the lead judgment, held that President Buhari, having earlier assented to section 84 (12) of the Electoral Act, 2022, could not turn around to approach the court to strike it down.

He said the request by the President to the National Assembly to delete the provision already assented to amounted to a constitutional violation.

The President and his Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, had filed a suit at the Supreme Court, seeking an interpretation of the controversial clause in the Electoral Amendment Act, 2022.

The President had signed the Electoral Act, 2022, into law on February 25, 2022.

Section 84 (12) of the legislation provides that “no political appointee at any level shall be a voting delegate or be voted for at the convention or congress of any political party for the purpose of the nomination of candidates for any election”.

However, in Friday’s ruling, the Supreme Court held that President Buhari, having assented to the bill on February 25, 2022, “cannot turn around to challenge same act”, and the suit was consequently struck out.

Frcn Abuja / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Environment

Nigeria remains committed to a safer global environment – Buhari

By Web News 404

The Federal Government says eliminating kerosene lighting by 2030 is part of Nigeria’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution, NDC, towards a safer and healthier global climate.

President Muhammadu Buhari made this known during a virtual meeting, hosted by President Joe Biden of the United States, on Major Economies Forum, MEF, on Energy and Climate Change.

He listed other measures to include increase in use of buses for public transport and reduction in burning of crop residues.

The president said an updated NDC to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change had been submitted to replace the interim contribution of May 27, 2021.

“Our updated NDC includes the waste sector which is expected to contribute to the reduction of Nigeria’s greenhouse gas emissions.

“And ratification of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol to phase out Hydro-fluoro-carbon emissions,’’ he said.

President Buhari thanked President Biden for convening the important event which he said, had remained crucial to the wellbeing of national economies as well as continued existence of all people on the planet.

The virtual summit was addressed by about 20 presidents and prime ministers or their representatives.

Those who personally did so included the host, President Biden, President Buhari, the German Chancellor, the President of Turkey, Prime Ministers of Japan and Canada as well as the Secretary General of the United Nations and the President of the European Commission.

Vanguard/Maxwell Oyekunle

Politics

Democracy Day: Buhari Addresses Nigerians

By Web News 598

Address by his excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, President and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces of the federal republic of Nigeria on the occasion of commemoration and celebration of Democracy Day, 12th June, 2022

Fellow Nigerians, today, June the 12th, marks another Democracy Day anniversary and an occasion to celebrate freedom and unity of our Nation.

  1. From 1999, we consistently celebrated Democracy Day to mark the end of military rule and the return of power and control into the hands of those freely elected by the people. On this day, Nigerians recommit themselves to ensuring we protect and preserve the ideals of democracy.
  2. In 2018, we moved Democracy Day from 29th of May to the 12th of June. This change was to remind all Nigerians of one free election after which the presumed winner along with Nigerians were denied their rights and their choice.
  3. On June 12th 1993, Nigerians saw the best in our citizens as we all went out to vote peacefully. By June 24th 1993, we also saw the worst of our leadership as the elections were annulled.
  4. We must never forget the sacrifices of the heroes of Nigeria’s democracy during 1993. Their patriotism and peaceful struggle should guide our actions especially when it comes to electing our leaders and holding them accountable, now and in future.
  5. Fellow Nigerians this is my last Democracy Day speech as your President. By June 12th, 2023, exactly one year from today, you will already have a new President. I remain committed and determined to ensure that the new President is elected through a peaceful and transparent process.
  6. It is important for all of us to remember that June 12th, 2023 will be exactly 30 years from the 1993 Presidential elections. In honour and memory of one of our national heroes for democracy, Chief M.K.O Abiola, GCFR, we must all work together to ensure this transition is done in a peaceful manner.
  7. I am hopeful that we can achieve this. The signs so far are positive. Recently, all registered political parties conducted primaries to select their candidates for the 2023 general elections.
  8. These primaries were peaceful and orderly. Those who won were magnanimous in their victories. Those who lost were gracious in defeat. And those aggrieved opted to seek judicial justice as opposed to jungle justice.
  9. I followed the party primaries closely from the state level to the Presidential level. I was very impressed to see across all the political parties that, most candidates ran issued based campaigns. The language and tone throughout were on the whole measured and controlled.
  10. Another positive that came from the 2022 party primaries was the significant increase in women and youth particularly across all parties. I was very pleased to see this development. This augurs well for the future. These trends clearly show the level of maturity our democracy has achieved in the last 23 years.
  11. As we move into the general election campaign season, we must sustain this mature attitude to campaigning and ultimately, voting. We must never see it as a “do or die” affair. We must all remember democracy is about the will of the majority. There must be winners and losers.
  12. I will therefore take this opportunity on this very special day to ask all candidates to continue running issue focused campaigns and to treat opponents with dignity. As leaders, you must all showcase high character and never forget that the world is watching us and Africa looks up to Nigeria to provide example in governance. The tone you set at the top will surely be replicated in your followers.
  13. For the voters, I am pleased to inform you that in the last 7 years, our government across all tiers, has made significant investments to reform and enhance our electoral laws, systems, and processes to safeguard your votes.
  14. The Executive, Legislature and Judiciary were and still remain united and committed to ensure these reforms are fully implemented in the 2023 general elections. Fellow Nigerians, your right to choose your government will be preserved and protected.
  15. I know many of us are concerned with the rise in insecurity due to terrorist activities in parts of the country. As a government, we are working hard to contain and address these challenges. And ensure that the 2023 general elections are safe and secure for all Nigerians.
  16. To achieve this however, we must all contribute. It is not the job of government alone. I ask all citizens to support and cooperate with our security agencies by reporting any suspicious characters and activities to law enforcement agencies. We can only have a safe country if we are able to prevent crime not after the crime has been committed.
  17. On this special day, I want us all to put all victims of terrorist activities in our thoughts and prayers. I am living daily with the grief and worry for all those victims and prisoners of terrorism and kidnapping. I and the security agencies are doing all we can to free those unfortunate countrymen and countrywomen safely.
  18. For those who have lost their lives, we will continue to seek justice for their families against the perpetrators. For those currently in captivity, we will not stop until they are freed, and their kidnappers are brought to justice. If we all unite, we will be victorious against these agents of terror and destruction.
  19. We have reformed some of our security structures. Some of the defence assets we procured three years ago have arrived and have been deployed.
  20. Our cyber security and surveillance systems are being upgraded to further enhance our ability to track and trace criminal elements. We are also recruiting and training new personnel across all our security and intelligence agencies to strengthen the country’s over-all security.
  21. I will conclude this Democracy Day speech, my last as President, by assuring you of my commitment to protect Nigeria and Nigerians from all enemies from within and outside.
  22. I am also promising you a free, fair and transparent electoral process. And I am pleading with all citizens to come together and work with Government to build a peaceful and prosperous nation.
  23. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Politics

Buhari Arrives UAE, Meets New President

By Web News 462

President Muhammadu Buhari has arrived in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, to convey his condolences on the passing of President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

He is scheduled to present the condolence and congratulatory to the new President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and thereafter review the bonds of a long-lasting friendship between the 2 countries.

In a congratulatory message to the new UAE leader, he reaffirmed Nigeria’s relationship with the country, noting that the cooperation has helped Nigeria in tracking down illegal assets and tracing terrorists’ funds.

Under the new leadership, President Buhari said he looked forward to a bigger and stronger partnership for peace, stability, and prosperity for both countries.

Accompanying the President are the Minister of State Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Zubairu Dada, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Fantami, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Mohammed Bello, and the Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika.

Other members of his delegation are the National Security Adviser, retired Major General Mohammed Monguno, and the Director-General, National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Ahmed Rufai Abubakar.

The President is expected back in Abuja on Saturday.

Abdullah Bello/Abdullahi Lamino

Politics

President Buhari Jets Out  

By Web News 594

President Muhammadu Buhari has left for Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, to attend a United Nations organized conference on the future of land, regarding desertification, drought, degradation, rights, restoration and implications for national and world economies.

The President, who will participate in a Summit of Heads of States and Governments, from May 9th to 10th, 2022, joins world leaders for the 15th session of the Conference of the Parties, COP15, of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, UNCCD, with the theme“, ‘Land. Life. Legacy: From Scarcity to Prosperity.”

A statement by the Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, says the convention aims to take action to ensure that land, the lifeline on the planet, continues to benefit present and future generations.

To achieve the visionary objective of land restoration and balance, COP15 will bring together leaders from governments, the private sector, civil society, and other key stakeholders from around the world to drive progress in the future of sustainable management of land.

The convention will explore links between land and other key development issues, which will be discussed during the high-level segment, including a Heads of States Summit, high-level roundtables and interactive dialogue sessions.

COP 15 is a key moment in the fight against desertification, land degradation and drought.

The statement explains that the summit will build on the findings of the Second Edition of the Global Land Outlook, and offer a concrete response to the interconnected challenges of land degradation, climate change and biodiversity loss as the world steps into the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.

Drought, land restoration, and related enablers such as land rights, gender equality and youth empowerment are among the top items on the Conference agenda.

President Buhari, who is also the President of the Great Green Wall in Africa, will be accompanied on the trip by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, Minister of Environment, Mohammed Abdullahi, Minister of Agriculture, Dr Mahmoud Mohammed, and Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Adamu.

Also, on the President’s team to Abidjan are the National Security Adviser, Major General Babagana Monguno, Director General, National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, and Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri- Erewa.

Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has commended the Military for the incessant onslaught and for not showing any let up as they continue to achieve positive outcomes in their current operational trajectory in the northwest, particularly Zamfara State, which has been a hotbed of criminal activities.

In a statement, the President notes that while there appears to be relatively calm in the state, with situations returning to normal in most parts and the rural communities ready to live their lives normally again, there had been several breaches, especially in view of the bandits’ attack on Damri, Sabongarin Damri and Kalahe villages in Bakura Local Government Area, and lately, Maradun, where a number of casualties were recorded.

Abdullah Bello/Tola Oguneye

Politics

Press Freedom Day: FG Reiterates Support for a Free Press

By Web News 562

The Federal Government has urged the media to be mindful of sponsored political news and publications capable of inciting hatred, division, violence, and chaos in the country during the forthcoming general elections. 

It also wants the media to ensure that the electoral umpire and other stakeholders play their roles in delivering free, fair, credible, and transparent elections to Nigerians.

Rejoicing with media practitioners on World Press Freedom Day, President Muhammadu Buhari called for unity in supporting media professionals, who work hard to de-escalate violent conflict and promote peaceful societies without compromising the responsibility to report. 

He urged government information managers to ensure that the press and the general public had access to facts and figures about government activities without hassles.

The president reiterated the government’s commitment to freedom of the press, pledging to continue ensuring the protection of the rights and privileges of journalists in the lawful performance of their professional duties.

He charged the Nigerian Press to use World Press Freedom Day to reflect on the need to embrace the best professional standards and practices, especially in the build-up to the forthcoming general elections.

President Buhari noted that the free performance of media roles and responsibilities during the electoral process was as important as the sanctity and will of Nigerians, expressed through the ballot box.

In line with the theme of this year’s World Press Freedom Day, ‘‘Journalism under digital siege”, the president assured that government agencies under his watch would always stand against actions that were capable of limiting the preservation of the freedom of the press as guaranteed by the country’s constitution. 

He said the government was working hard to support media organisations in Nigeria through the provision of better internet access to underserved communities, and the achievement of 95 percent digital literacy by 2030.

President Buhari thanked members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm, whose diligent work has helped in guaranteeing peace, stability, and progress in the country.

World Press Freedom Day is observed on May 3rd annually. 

Abdullah Bello

Security

Victory over terrorists within sight – PMB

By Web News 590

President Muhammadu Buhari has declared that the final victory of the long and difficult war against terrorist groups, falsely masquerading under the name of Islam, is within sight.

The President made the declaration in his Sallah felicitations to Muslims in Nigeria and across the world on the successful completion of the Ramadan Fast.

He says last month’s killing of the leader of the Islamic States of West African Province, ISWAP, in an airstrike, the surrendering of thousands of terrorists, the return of fleeing communities to their homes, and speedy return of normalcy to the northeast, are indicators to the victory over the terrorists.

He explains that with the designation of bandit groups as terrorists, the challenges of banditry and kidnapping are being tackled differently in the north-western and north-central states, where the latest military acquisitions and the Armed Forces are being fanned out across the region to thwart acts of terror.

President Buhari says the government is equally getting impressive reports of the special operations to curb crude oil theft and illegal oil bunkering in the south-south, with millions of illegally refined products being impounded and illegal refineries destroyed.

In response to the disturbing rise in criminal attacks targeting law enforcement and public facilities in the South East, the President says concerted military operations to rid the region of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) elements have led to the overrunning of IPOB/ESN bases, the seizure of weapons, and the arrest of a large number of suspects.

On drugs, President Buhari says the reinvigoration of the war against drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking is also showing positive results, as shown by the arrest of over 12, 300 offenders, including seven drug barons, the conviction of 1,400 offenders, and counseling, as well as the rehabilitation of about 8,000 drug users.

He notes that the seizure of over 3.4 million kilograms of drugs and cash worth over N130 billion in 2021, has been recorded while the first quarter of this year has seen the arrest of no fewer than 3,536 offenders, including security personnel and a well-known billionaire drug baron.

According to him, it is with a view to giving impetus to the concerned agency that he granted approvals for the promotion of more than 3,500 officers, the procurement of operational equipment, training for personnel and buildings for residential barracks.

He says such also made him to direct increased coordination and co-operation among security agencies, saying that an end has been brought to a silo approach among the agencies, assuring that there will be no shortage of funds to provide security for the citizens.

Abdullah Bello

Security

Plateau Killings: Perpetrators must not be forgiven – Buhari

By Web News 497

President Muhammadu Buhari has condemned the brutal terrorist attacks in Kanam and Wase Local Government Areas of Plateau, describing the killings as heinous.

In a statement by his spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu, on Tuesday in Abuja, the president said the perpetrators should not be allowed to escape justice.

“They should not be spared or forgiven,” he further directed.

He ordered law enforcement agencies to work with the government of the state, to bring the situation under control and take steps to bring the culprits to justice quickly.

President Buhari expressed condolences over the terrorist incident, saying that as a matter of priority, peace must return at all costs to the state and the entire country.

“I urge all our citizens, the people of Plateau State in particular, to expose the perpetrators of such incidents, their sponsors and those who encourage such criminals who carry out these dastardly acts of murder, so that the law will take its course”.

”They must not be forgiven,” the president said.

NAN

News

Buhari signs Harmonised Retirement Age for Teachers Act

By Web News 607

President Muhammadu Buhari has assented to four bills recently passed by the National Assembly.

They include the Harmonised Retirement Age for Teachers in Nigeria Act, 2022 and the Nigeria Law Reform Commission Act, 2022.

Others are the National Biotechnology Development Agency Act, 2022 and the Federal Medical Centre, Hong (Establishment) Act, 2022.

The Harmonised Retirement Age for Teachers Act provides a new retirement age for teachers in Nigeria.

Section 1 states that they shall compulsorily retire on the attainment of 65 years of age or 40 years of pensionable service.

Section 3 provides that the Public Service Rule or any Legislation that requires a person to retire from the Public Service at 60 years of age or after 35 years of Service shall not apply to teachers.

The Nigeria Law Reform Commission Act, 2022, repeals the Nigeria Law Reform Commission Act, Cap. N118, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 and Enact the Nigerian Law Reform Commission Act, 2022

The National Biotechnology Development Agency Act, 2022, provides a legal framework for National Biotechnology Development Agency activities.

They are to carry out research, create and develop public awareness in biotechnology to encourage private sector participation in the biotechnology industry in Nigeria.

The Act establishing the Federal Medical Centre, Hong, Adamawa State, provides a Legal framework for its due management and administration.

The Medical Centre will be headed by a Medical Director who shall be appointed by the President on the recommendation of the Minister of Health.

Daily Post/Olaolu Fawole

Transportation

FEC Mourns Victims of Train Attack

By Web News 584

President Muhammadu Buhari and members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) observed a minute silence on Wednesday in memory of the victims of the terrorist attack on a #AbujaKadunaRail train on Monday.

A day after the attack, Buhari convened a meeting with service chiefs and issued an order mandating that they “deal” with anyone found in illegal possession of an AK-47 gun.

According to Rotimi Amaechi, Minister of Transportation, who visited the scene of the tragedy on Tuesday, eight people were killed in the attack.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai visited injured survivors in hospitals in Kaduna.

FRCN Abuja

Politics

Build up to APC Convention

By Web News 644

On Friday, thousands of supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from around the country came in Abuja in preparation for the party’s national convention.

7,584 delegates decide our NWC, according to the APC< on its Twitter handle.

Many people were reported to be camping along the roadside in the Three Arms Zone in order to gain easy access to the venue, Eagle Square, which is surrounded by high-level security.

As a result, traffic has been diverted away from the axis, resulting in a slow accumulation of gridlock.

The party has been embroiled in a series of internal battles in the run-up to the convention, which the court just ruled that the event could hold.

The Party announced on Friday that it will enter the convention with a “Unity List,” which would outline its consensus candidates for every post.

A series of meetings with governors, founding members, and potential candidates were convened by President Muhammadu Buhari, who decreed the adoption of consensus candidates for all positions of the National Working Committee (NWC).

As of Friday night, all of the candidates for the chairmanship had withdrawn from the campaign in accordance with the President’s instructions.

Senator Abdullahi Adamu, a former governor of Nasarawa State, is projected to be endorsed as the National Chairman.

It is expected that 21 NWC posts and 33 non-NWC roles will be filled today.

The party’s ward, local government, and state conventions were all held in 2021.

Electoral act decree

In an interview with journalists in Abuja on Friday, Abdullahi Sule, the Chairman of the Convention Sub-committee on Media and Publicity and the Governor of Nasarawa state, said that in accordance with the Electoral Act 2022, political appointees will not be allowed to vote as delegates unless they are “statutory delegates” by virtue of elective positions they may have held in the past.

Convention’s schedule of events 

Governors, National Assembly members, ministers, and party leaders are anticipated to arrive by 2 p.m.

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo is expected to arrive around 2:45 p.m., and President Muhammadu Buhari is expected to arrive at 3:15 p.m. After that, the convention will officially begin.

Remarks by the Vice President will be made between 5:35 and 5:40pm, and President Buhari will make special remarks between 5:40 and 5:55pm, according to the schedule.

Saadatu Albashir

Crime

Unveiling of Manuals: Buhari Commends Bawa, Urges Other Agencies to Emulate EFCC

By Web News 582

President Muhammadu Buhari today Friday March 25, 2022, commended the excellent performance of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission under the leadership of Abdulrasheed Bawa in securing 2,220 convictions and recovering over N152billion and $285m in one year.

The President who spoke at the unveiling of the EFCC Standard Operating Procedures, Policies, and Manuals, at the State House, Abuja, noted that the documents were in line with his administration’s vision to institutionalize the fight against corruption. “I am glad to note that the war against corruption, which is one of the cardinal objectives of this administration, is being strengthened through the institutionalization of operational procedures, particularly as they form the building blocks of transparency and accountability in administration and public expenditure,” he said

He advised Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government, especially law Enforcement Agencies which were yet to standardize their processes to emulate the EFCC. “I would like to use this opportunity to encourage other Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government, especially Law Enforcement Agencies to ensure the standardization of their processes within the extant laws and regulations as provided in our statutes.”

While pledging his administration’s commitment to “ensure the sustainability of initiatives already commenced in actualizing our vision of a corrupt free society”, President Buhari charged the EFCC to avoid being used for partisan politics or get dragged into personal disputes. In his words, “I must advise the leadership and operatives of this Commission to resist the temptation of being used for partisan politics or be dragged into personal disputes. Your job is to serve the nation in its efforts to entrench good governance”.

Earlier in his opening remarks, EFCC Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa said the unveiling of the 26 Standard Operating Procedures, and 25 Policies and Manuals of the Commission were in fulfillment of the pledge he made at his screening before the National Assembly, to discourage discretion in the work of the Commission by standardizing its processes and procedures.

He explained that with the Policies and Manuals, the Commission now boasts of a unique DNA as all personnel know what is expected of them per time.

He further disclosed that the Policies and Manuals were in tandem with the strategic vision of the Commission as contained in the EFCC Strategic Plan (2021 -2025). The Plan, according to him,  “is anchored on five objectives of increased public engagement, improved systems and processes, intelligence driven investigation, prosecution and assets recovery, improved law enforcement coordination and collaboration and  enhanced institutional and human capacity development”.

“We have in the last one year restructured the Departments and Units of the Commission for improved efficiency. I established a Department of Intelligence to drive my vision for intelligence-led investigation. The Commission designed and launched a crime reporting Application, Eagle Eye, the first of its kind in Nigeria. The App which was launched in July 2021 is now a treasure trove of intelligence for the Commission.

“I have also restructured the Legal and Prosecution Department and the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering, SCUML. The training arm of the Commission, the EFCC Academy has been renovated and fully primed to deliver its objectives.

“The morale of staff of the Commission had also improved in the last one year,” he said.

Bawa commended the President for approving an enhanced welfare scheme for the Commission and concluded by saying that, “there is nothing wrong with Nigeria that cannot be right, with what is right about Nigeria.”

Among the documents unveiled are  Standard Operating Procedure for Departments and Units, Policies On Codes and Standards of Professional Behaviour; Use of Firearms and Ammunition, Orderly Room Trial; Staff Welfare; Document Security and Classification; Health, Safety and Environment; Sexual Harassment and Bullying, Health, Official Correspondence, Information and Communication Technology Acceptable Usage, Official Vehicles and Fleet, among others.

Oluwakayode  Banjo

Lifestyle

NBC Gets New Board Members

By Web News 536

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the reconstitution of the Governing Board of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), following the expiration of the tenure of the former Board.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said the board has Mr Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa as Chairman.

Other members, who were appointed to represent various interests as stipulated by the NBC Act, include Mr. Wada Asab Ibrahim, Mr Iheanyichukwu Azubike Dike, Mrs Adesola Oyinloye Ndu and Mr Olaniyan Olatunji Badmus.

Also on the Board are Mr Bashir Ibrahim, Mr Obiora Ilo, Mr, Ahmad Sajo, Mr Bayo Erikitola, a representative of the State Security Service, a representative of the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture as well as the Director-General of the Commission.

The Board has a three-year tenure.

Segun Adeyemi,

Special Assistant To The President (Media)

Office of the Minister of Information and Culture

Abuja

Foreign

Ukraine War: Evacuation Of Nigerians Begins Wednesday

By Web News 567

Air Peace and Max Air may begin the evacuation of Nigerians from Ukraine on Wednesday, the Federal Government has announced.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, stated this on Monday during a meeting with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Onyeama said the evacuation will be done following the approval of President Muhammadu Buhari.

With Ukraine still at war with Russia and a no-fly zone effective across the country, the evacuation is expected to take place from neighbouring countries.

Earlier on Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said hundreds of Nigerians have been received in Poland, Hungary and Romania by Nigerian embassies in those countries.

Nigerians have continued to flee Ukraine after Russia invaded the East European nation last week.

Talks commenced between both parties on Monday but fighting has continued in Ukrainian cities.

Many Nigerian students in Ukraine have called for help in leaving the conflict hotspot.

The nation’s embassy in Ukraine initially asked citizens to take responsibility for their own security but have since reversed course.

On Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said 130 Nigerians have been received by the country’s embassy in Romania.

In a statement, the ministry explained that it has also provided accommodation for them while arrangements are being made to take them back home.

“Also, officials at Budapest, Hungary have received and accommodated 74 Nigerians safely, where they are being documented for subsequent travel arrangements back to Nigeria,” the statement, signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Gabriel Aduda, read.

According to him, another batch of about 200 Nigerians is expected in Budapest later in the day. He also said 52 persons have been received in Warsaw, Poland. Of the number, 23 are being processed at the Polish Government Reception Point at Hala Kijowska.

“The camp is well organised with beds and beddings, food, heating, clothing, and medicals for evacuees,” the statement added.

“We assure Nigerians that all hands are on deck and arrangements are being put in place to effectively evacuate our citizens, in safety and dignity.”

The Federal Government’s recent move was a sequel to the Russian invasion of Ukraine about five days ago. On Sunday, the ministry said the Hungarian and Romanian governments have approved visa-free access to Nigerians coming from the Eastern European nation.

“For now, movement to the Hungarian Zahony border and Romanian Suceava, Tulcea, Satu Mare County & Maramures borders is advised, as they have approved visa-free access to all Nigerians coming from Ukraine and arrangements for accommodation and feeding before evacuation is arranged,” Aduda said.

Politics

Buhari Assents To Electoral Bill

By Web News 476

 President Muhammadu Buhari has finally signed into law, the Electoral Act Amendment Bill.

The President assented to the bill at past midday on Friday, at a brief ceremony held at the Council Chamber of the Aso Villa in Abuja.

The Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo; President of the Senate, Ahmed Lawan, and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, witnessed the signing of the bill.

The President received the bill from the National Assembly on the 31st of January for a second time after he returned the bill to the legislative arm.

President Buhari had told the National Assembly to remove the clause that had to do with direct primaries for political parties from the electoral act amendment bill.


Oluwakayode Banjo

Politics

Buhari Swears In Six New INEC Commissioners

By Web News 504

President Muhammadu Buhari has sworn in six new National Commissioners of the Independent National Electoral Commisssioners..

The brief swearing-in ceremony, which preceded the weekly virtual Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, took place at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa,Abuja.

Present at swearing in of  the Commissioners were Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; Senate President Senator Ahmad Lawan and Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila.

Also present at theremony were the  ceremony,were the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha; the Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari; the National Security Adviser (NSA), Major General Babagana Monguno (Rtd); and some of the Ministers scheduled to attend the FEC meeting.

Those sworn-in include Mohammed Haruna (Niger State); Mrs. Agbamuche Mbu (Delta); Okeagu Nnamdi (Abia); Major General Abubakar Alkali (Rtd.) (Adamawa); Professor Rada Gumus (Bayelsa) and Sam Elumeku (Ogun).

Speaking with newsmen  after the swearing-in ceremoney, Chairman of INEC, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, said Nigerians should expect the best out of INEC with the full complement of its commissioners

“Well, it’s a good day for the Commission, with the swearing in of the six National Commissioners, we have the full complements of 12 National Commissioners. It’s coming three days to by-elections in four states of the Federation and as we plan for the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections.

“As we continue to prepare for the 2023 general elections, we’ll go on firing on all cylinders now that we have the full complement of commissioners and Nigerians should expect the best out of the Commission,” he said.

Immediately after the ceremony, President Buhari proceeded with the weekly virtual FEC meeting.

The Ministers at present at the meeting include Chibuike Amaechi (Transportation); Lai Mohammed (Information and Culture); Senator Chris Ngige (Labour and Employment); Festus Keyamo (Minister of State, Labour and Employment); Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu (Science and Technology Innovation), his state counterpart Mohammed Abdullahi; Uchechukwu Ogar (State, Mines and Steel Development); Olamilekan Adegbite (Mines and Steel);Abubakar Aliyu (Minister of Power) and his state counterpart Jeddy Agba; Babatunde Fashola (Works and Housing); Clement Agba (Minister of State Budget and National Planning).

The Head of Service Folashade Yemi-Esan and other Ministers were attending the meeting virtually from their various offices in Abuja

The council is expected to deliberate on memos emanating from the various Ministers in attendance for approval.

The Nation

Politics

Non-Assent To Electoral Act Bill Could Cause Crisis – PDP

By Web News 584

The People’s Democratic Party, PDP, has expressed disappointment over the non-assent to the electoral act amendment bill by President Muhammadu Buhari, describing the situation as a grave danger to the nation’s democracy.

Addressing newsmen in Abuja, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr Debo Ologunagba said the situation could trigger a political crisis in the country.

The PDP spokesman drew the attention of Nigerians and the international community to the development and urged the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC to do whatever it takes to stand with Nigerians by using electronic means to ensure a free and credible election.

The president had earlier explained that he withheld assent to the bill due to Section 84 which provides for only direct primary for getting party candidates in elections, a section that has now been amended by the National Assembly.

Meanwhile, the PDP has constituted campaign councils for Cross River, Ondo and Imo States bye-elections.

Victorson Agbenson