By Odimegwu Onwumere
While the charge up to the elections in Ekiti state by 2022 is gathering momentum with politicians and political analysts spilling over with permutations, Governor Kayode Fayemi of the state said that the future will determine his next political movement.
Without a doubt, the mind of Fayemi of Ekiti is stretched by a new idea or sensation on how to develop the state every now and then (beyond his stay in office).
His government has shown a rare commitment to a nontoxic and abounding Ekiti, by working harder to achieve impactful governance to all in the state.
What has endeared many to Fayemi is that he is not given to irritation in handing over uncompleted projects to who will succeed his government; hence he is committed to completing all the ongoing projects.
As a people-oriented government, his government has restored hope in the residents of the state. For instance, in August, 2021, Kayode restored payment of consequential salary adjustments of Minimum Wage to Ekiti workers, which was earlier put on hold due to the state was building up revenue for the workers’ plight.
The testament was specified by the Commissioner for Information, Akin Omole, at the Economics Review Meeting held in August, in Ado-Ekiti.
When critics had thought Kayode was done, he also stated that the payment of percent Subvention to Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital was approved by the committee.
From 50- 60 percent, the subvention to Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti (EKSU) and Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti (BOUESTI) was increased; and September 2021 was the month for its approval.
With how he is going about governance in Ekiti, Kayode has proved that he is a solution governor personified who will not stop at anything to avoid crises and challenges that are not tailored towards giving the people good governance.
If Kayode were to be some persons, he won’t have been bothering to give Ekiti the best in all facets of governance having suffered three and half years in 2007 in the hands of political demagogues when he contested election that saw him through the courts till October 15, 2010 when the Appeal Court (in Ilorin, Kwara State) pronounced him as the authentic elected Governor of Ekiti State.
Upon all that were the hand of detractors who called themselves activists and opposition that pushed him around the court in his first tenure, Kayode didn’t relent to give Ekiti state the true meaning of democracy – by making sure that the state did not only know the meaning of transformation, but also experienced it.
Economy has been tested to be good in the state and driving industries heralding the nooks and crannies of Ekiti state. Micro-finance as a bastion to assuage poverty was introduced to help micro, medium and small-scale business enterprises to grow in the area of attaining soft loans. This was aside a certain amount of money he created and gave out monthly for the upkeep of the aged and senior citizens in Ekiti State
It is no longer a doubt that Kayode loves investing in human capital, (people-oriented projects) and the workforce in that state have always gained skills through world class trainings and courses. Kayode has been consistent before and after he came for a second term on July 14, 2018.
The lacuna his absence created within the period preceding his reemergence as Governor of Ekiti state was better imagined than it’s experienced by the residents of the state, who yearned for a dependable man like Kayode.
As a man of purpose, Kayode did not relax within the period he was in political oblivion as the then ex-governor of Ekiti, he heightened his political sagacity for the task ahead of him and the people didn’t disappoint him as they re-elected him governor, breaking the political bone of an incumbent whose interest was dashed.
It was meant to understand that why his people love him so much is because he didn’t betray his scholarly position of international linage. His second term as governor of Ekiti State has indeed become a blessing to the state that was once governed like it was a garrison station within the period following his reemergence as governor.
People see Kayode beyond Ekiti state as an exemplary statesman, an extraordinary leader, and a knowledgeable scholar of international history. They also see him as a veteran development connoisseur, an accomplished politician and conscientious statesman who walks his talk than some other politicians who would prefer to play politics in everything.
The Operation Amotekun was one of his numerous ingenuities in making sure that the people of the South-West saw security as a neighbourhood watch. Just as Kayode today has said that his political future was in the future, as Minister of Mines and Steel Development before July 2018, his political future was all also about speculation.
But he was confident to return as governor when he told his people and followers of the Ekiti State branch of All Progressives Congress that he was confident to return to the job of governor. He was optimistic to win given his belief as at the time that there were unfinished businesses of giving his people good governance which he wanted to complete.
His message has been consistent – he gives whatever that appeals to his fantasy thoughts and planning. It would be imperative to state that Ekiti people would miss Governor Fayemi Kayode when he leaves office as governor next year.
They will miss his infrastructural development prowess, security prudence, financial accountability, workforce loving-heart and many more.
They will miss him for the challenges ahead of the state . But one thing is certain, they will miss him for his good governance record, his due process stickling. The 177 wards will certainly miss him beyond their different party lines.
- Odimegwu Onwumerewrites from Rivers state and can be reached via WhatsApp on 0803255285
Eboigbe, Iyamu, others get portfolios in Edo State
Eleven commissioners and two Special Advisers were sworn-in on Wednesday as members of the Edo State Executive Council (EXCO).
The commissioners and their portfolios include: Joseph Eboigbe is the Commissioner for Finance; Prof. Obehi Akoria, Health; Mrs. Otse Momoh-Omorogbe, Budget and Planning; Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe, Education; Isoken Omo, Physical Planning and Urban Development.
Others are Moses Agbukor, Water Resources; Ethan Uzamere, Mining, Gas and Oil; Maria Edeko, Social Development and Gender; Monday Osaigbovo, Local Government; Andrew Emwanta, Communication and Orientation, while Oluwole Iyamu is Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.
The two Special Advisers are Crusoe Osagie, who was appointed as Special Adviser, Media Projects and Sarah Esangbedo Ajose-Adeogun, appointed as Special Adviser, Strategy, Policy, Projects and Performance Management.
2023: Amaechi deserves Presidency – South-South leaders
Key leaders in the South-South geo-political zone may have concluded plans to join forces with their counterparts in other parts of the country as a strategy to make the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, the nation’s president come 2023.
The hint was given by a leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the South-South geo-political zone, Mrs Ibifuro Tatua on Thursday in Port Harcourt.
Tatua spoke on Amaechi’s dynamic leadership, outstanding contribution and commitment to the development of the transport sector.
She affirmed that prominent leaders in the six geo-political zones, youths and women want Amaechi to be the next president of Nigeria.
Tatua, who is the convener of Progressives Volunteer Group (PVG), stressed on intellectual fitness, rare leadership qualities of Amaechi and the antecedents of all those aspiring to take over from President Muhammadu Buhari in 2023.
The APC chieftain underscored selfless service, integrity, honesty, dedication, patriotism and the zeal to serve the people rather than being served.
Tatua was of the belief that if the tempo of the minister’s developmental efforts in the transport sector is sustained in the next six years, Nigeria will be a model country.
‘’Having performed excellently as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Governor of Rivers State and Minister of Transportation, Amaechi could comfortably lead Nigeria to the Promised Land.
Tatua also emphasized Amaechi’s commitment to top quality service delivery to the people of Nigeria, the untiring efforts of Amaechi towards repositioning the maritime industry, Buhari’s satisfaction with Amaechi’s performance and the closeness of the minister to the power centres in the six-geo-political zones.
‘’Rotimi Amaechi is the right man for the job. The president is extremely pleased at what he has been doing. Nigerians adore him and cherish what he is doing. They are proud of Amaechi for conceiving and articulating good policies in the transportation sector’’. ’’
Particularly, Tatua praised Amaechi for creating job opportunities, increasing contribution of the transport sector to the nation’s GDP and upgrading all modes of transport in Nigeria, including rail, roads, sea, and air.
On how the leaders would pursue the 2023 project, Tatua said PVG was out to ensure that the stakeholders in Nigeria have a united front behind the former governor of Rivers State.
‘’Rotimi Amaechi deserves the respect of all. He is favoured because of his immense contributions to the development of Nigeria and the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC)’’
Tatua described Amaechi as ‘’a pragmatic and visionary leader who thinks ahead of his people’’
‘’Rotimi Amaechi is young, energetic and willing to work for the development of Nigeria, based on his experience in politics, administrative acumen and understanding of the Nigerian State’’.
October 6, 2021
Press Statement
Perish Contemplations of State of Emergency In Anambra, PDP Cautions FG
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) cautions the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government to perish every contemplations of imposing a state of emergency in Anambra state ahead of the November 6 governorship election.
The PDP holds that the reported move to foist an emergency rule in Anambra state is a ploy by the APC-led government to suppress the people, manipulate the process and rig the governorship election for the APC and its candidate.
Our party demands that the APC and its administration should come clean on their roles in the sudden rise in insecurity in Anambra state ahead of the election.
This demand is predicated on apprehensions in the public space that the spate of insecurity in Anambra is contrived to heighten tension in the state so as to derail the democratic process to the advantage of the APC.
The PDP insists that the Federal Government has the capacity to ensure peace in Anambra before, during and even after the election, if it so desired. We therefore invite the President Muhammadu Buhari-led APC Federal Government to be guided accordingly.
Our party also charges the people of Anambra state to remain calm and alert as well as take steps within the ambits of the law to resist plots by the APC to derail the electoral process in its inordinate ambition to seize Anambra through the back door.
Signed:
Kola Ologbondiyan
National Publicity Secretary
LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR
PRESS RELEASE
LAGOS SEEKS PARTNERSHIP WITH PRIVATE SECTOR, STAKEHOLDERS FOR SMART CITY PROJECT
…My administration will invest greatly in technology, says Sanwo-Olu
…Confirms Coker-Odusote as substantive General Manager of LASIMRA
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday pledged his administration’s commitment to greatly invest in technology, which according to him is critical to the development of the State and nation at large.
He said technology is crucial to the Lagos Smart City Project and therefore called on key stakeholders and the private sector to collaborate as partners with the State Government to create a Lagos that works for all.
Governor Sanwo-Olu stated this at the 2021 Stakeholders Conference of Lagos State Infrastructure, Maintenance and Regulatory Agency (LASIMRA), with the theme: ‘Lagos State Metro and Smart City Initiative: The Future of Technological Infrastructure”.
He said his government is committed to providing ease of doing business for investors to make life better for citizens as well as adequate security of lives and property in the State.
The Governor hinted that the State will not hesitate to take a cue from Singapore and other countries that use modern technology for massive infrastructure development, while also collaborating with the private sector.
“If Lagos is to sustain its Centre of Excellence status in the country, vital infrastructural development is critical to achieving human capital development. The economic impact that infrastructure improvement has on nation building cannot be over-emphasised,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu during the conference also confirmed the acting General Manager of LASIMRA, Engr. (Mrs) Abisoye Coker-Odusote, as substantive General Manager of the agency.
In his Keynote Address, Lagos State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Mr. Hakeem Fahm noted that in line with the T.H.E.M.E.S. agenda, the State will leverage technology to provide infrastructure to boost the state economy, improve security, enhance efficient service delivery in all sectors and traffic management in a bid to achieve a Smart City and to make Lagos a 21st Century economy.
He said technology is relevant and significant to enhance economic growth and development of a state and the nation, noting that Lagos State has successfully adopted technology in implementing the six-pillar T.H.E.M.E.S agenda.
The General Manager of LASIMRA, Engr. (Mrs) Abisoye Coker-Odusote, said it is not surprising that in Lagos State, the Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led government through the Lagos State Infrastructure Maintenance and Regulatory Agency is keen on making Lagos the fortress of digital enterprise, an urban hub for innovation and commerce and a fertile market for imperial investment.
She said: “In line with Mr. Governor’s T.H.E.M.E.S. Policy Agenda, repositioning Lagos State as a smart city is an integral aspect of this administration; with a well-designed roadmap, the administration has been working hard to improve the efficiency of services and eliminate redundancies in major sectors to promote an enabling environment for business, as well as residents.
“The administration’s plan to fully transform the state Metro/Smart City Project and make her economy 21st century compliant is fully on course,” she said.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Works and Infrastructure, Engr. (Mrs.) Aramide Adeyooye during plenary, said the State Government is committed to the Smart City Project to reduce crime, increase investment among other things.
Other panellists, which comprised Deputy CEO, Huawei Technologies Nigeria Limited, Mr. Zhao Wen Jun; Chief Development Officer, West Indian Ocean Cable Company (WIOCC), Mr. Darren Bedford and Chief Technical Officer, WTES Project Limited, Mr. Sunil Gubbi, urged Lagos State Government to leverage technology and partnership with the private sector to achieve the Smart City and 21st Century economy status.
The Chief Executive, Skystone Capital and Investment Limited, Mr. Ola Olabinjo; Managing Director, Coleman Technical Industries Limited, Mr. George Onafowokan; Special Adviser to the Governor on Technology and Innovation, Mr. Tunbosun Alake and Senior Advisor, Kasi Cloud Limited, Mr. Ibrahim Dikko spoke on financing critical inputs of the Lagos Smart City Project.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
OCTOBER 5, 2021
LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
PRESS STATEMENT
GOVERNOR BABAJIDE OLUSOLA SANWO-OLU SIGNS ADMINISTRATION OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE (AMENDMENT) LAW OF LAGOS STATE, 2021
Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu on the 30th of September 2021 assented to the Administration of Criminal Justice (Amendment) Law [ACJL] of Lagos State, 2021. The ACJL was first passed in Lagos State in 2007 and amended in 2011 (more than ten (10) years ago) to ensure the Fundamental Rights of suspects and persons that come into contact with the justice system, as enshrined in the Constitution are protected.
In a bid to further strengthen the justice system, promote the rights of victims and suspects as well as address the issue of delay in the Administration of Criminal Justice in Lagos State, key innovative provisions have been introduced as amendments to the Law.
The provisions include conducting criminal proceedings through audio and video conferencing platform, powers of Chief Magistrate to visit Police Stations, prohibition of media parade of suspects, compensation to victims of crime, protective measures for victims and witnesses as well as the Establishment of a Crime Data Register and the Criminal Justice Sector Reform Committee to monitor the implementation of this Law.
This further reinforces the commitment of Mr. Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu to the promotion of Law & Order, Protection of rights of Citizens, decongestion of our Correctional Facilities and ensure a crime-free society in Lagos State.
The Ministry of Justice through collaborative effort with Stakeholders in the Administration of Criminal Justice will ensure the provisions of this law are enforced.
Moyosore Onigbanjo SAN
Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice
5th October 2021
LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
PRESS RELEASE
LASG TO CELEBRATE NIGERIA’S INDEPENDENCE WITH “EKO ON SHOW” FESTIVAL
… As ‘A-List’ artistes like K1, Davido, Tiwa Savage, Ayra Starr, Teni listed for performance
As a way of reviving the entertainment scene in Lagos State while also strategically showcasing the State as the soul of entertainment of Nigeria, the State’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture is set to celebrate Nigeria’s Independence with the “Eko on Show” festival slated for Friday, 15th October, 2021 at Muri-Okunola Park, Victoria Island.
The festival, according to the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Pharm. (Mrs) Uzamat Akinbile-Yussuf, will feature A-list artistes like Davido, Tiwa Savage, Ayra Starr, Teni, D’banj, among others, while veteran musicians like Dede, Kwam 1 and Shina Peters are also billed to perform at the event.
Making this disclosure at a Press Conference on Tuesday, at Muri-Okunola Park, Victoria Island, the Commissioner noted that the festival is in continuation of Nigeria’s Independence Anniversary celebration, through music, fashion show, dancing and a display of tantalising array of food and drinks to entertain Lagosians, Nigerians and the world as a whole.
Akinbile-Yusuff noted that the Ministry is continually seeking for better ways to sell the rich potentials of Lagos State to the world as evident in the State’s recent declaration as the holder of the world’s largest anniversary logo made with cupcakes mosaic by the Guinness World Records.
Being the holder of the Guinness World Records in this regard, the Commissioner noted, has put Lagos State on the world stage, especially tourists across the world, who now see what Lagos could offer in terms of breaking new grounds in creativity and innovations.
She said: “This October 15 event is also a way of sending a message to the entire world that Lagos, apart from being a land of creativity and innovations, is also the soul of entertainment, fun and relaxation, rich in culture and hospitality.”
She added that the event was conceptualised based on the need to provide a platform to enhance the State’s competitive positioning as a top 5 tourist destination in Africa; build on the inherent creativity of Lagosians and establish the State as a vibrant and innovative tourism destination that diversifies the economy, creates jobs across multiple tourism segments and offers the world access to the ingenuity and hospitality of the residents.
“Specifically, this event will feature an exceptional experience of good music, fashion, food, and dance Extravaganza and lots more. We will be showcasing most of our local contents at this event”, Akinbile-Yussuf stated.
The Commissioner explained that the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains committed to the quick recovery of the entertainment and tourism sector in line with the T.H.E.M.E.S developmental agenda, especially the fifth pillar which stands for Entertainment and Tourism.
She added that: “This administration has committed huge resources to produce film makers of international standards, fashion designers of class, musicologists, dancers and lots more professionals in the creative field, saying that the ‘Eko on Show’ event will serve as a platform through which these talented individuals will showcase their creativity”.
The Special Adviser on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Solomon Bonu, in his remarks, stated that the Ministry realized that the entertainment sector which directly impacts the majority of the youth population, should be made vibrant and active despite the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic.
He also disclosed that the October 15 date which coincidentally is the felabration week celebration, would provide different avenues of fun for Lagosians, assuring that the State Government has over the years supported the hosting of the annual celebration of Felabration; a festival of music and arts commemorating the life and times of Nigeria’s foremost musical icon, the late Fela Anikulapo Kuti.
On her part, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Princess Adenike Adedoyin-Ajayi informed that the event will be a hybrid version in line with COVID-19 protocols and will be used to further reopen the entertainment sector amidst Covid-19.
She urged interested participants to register ahead to take part in the show and obtain free tickets on https://tix.africa/eko, saying that the tickets available are limited.
The registration, according to her, will enable the State Government make solid preparations for the event and ensure that the proposed number of participants is controlled and adhered to in line with covid protocols and in compliance with the capacity of the event’s venue.
In their separate contributions, Ara the Drummer; Teni, the Entertainer and Dede Mabiaku, a versatile musician applauded the “Eko on Show” initiative and promised the best of entertainment for thousands and millions of fun lovers that would join the show either physically or virtually.
It should be noted that this is the first time that the State Government will be hosting an outdoor entertainment event since the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic last year.
Ayo Afuwape
Public Affairs Unit
Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture
06/10/2021
LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR
PRESS RELEASE
BUILDING COLLAPSE: SANWO-OLU LAUNCHES FITNESS CERTIFICATE TO ENFORCE STATE’S PLANNING CODES
- Governor: ‘Delay in Permit, Approval Processes Inexcusable’
All buildings in Lagos State will now be issued licence for safe habitation. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday, launched a rebranded Certificate of Completion and Fitness for Habitation with the objective to safeguard residents’ lives and address the root causes of building collapse.
The Governor empowered the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) with the mandate to issue the certificate to all existing and new building developments, thereby ensuring their resilience and safety for occupancy.
The fitness certificate was initiated to find a lasting solution to structural defects, building collapse and other building contraventions in line with international best practice.
Sanwo-Olu launched the certificate at an event held at Adeyemi Bero Auditorium in Secretariat, Alausa.
The Governor, who described the initiative as a “game changer”, said the financial and emotional loss that usually followed incidents of building collapse led to the design of the innovative approach to control physical developments and safeguard people’s lives.
The State Government’s intention, Sanwo-Olu said, is to ensure the close monitoring of building construction works by LASBCA officials, from the foundation stage to completion.
He said: “This event is a testimony to our determination to address incidents of building collapse, by ensuring that due processes are followed in physical development activities in a way that will usher in new practice and bring about saner environment devoid of avoidable loss of lives and properties.
“The launch of the Certificate of Completion and Fitness for Habitation is one of the moves to further strengthen our resolve to control building collapse incidents. This is a game changer in building control strategies as it portrays us a government that thinks ahead and that is concerned about the safety of lives and properties of the citizens.”
Sanwo-Olu linked previous building collapse incidents recorded in Lagos to low compliance to physical planning laws, noting that unenforced building codes would have dire consequences on lives of the residents.
State government, the Governor said, would start treating house owners, contractors and relevant stakeholders as individuals responsible for collapse of buildings, should they fail to obtain the fitness certificate on their buildings.
Sanwo-Olu also frowned at the long wait usually encountered by private property developers in obtaining planning permits and building approvals, reading riot act to the supervising directors at LASBCA against sharp practices.
The Governor directed the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development and its agencies to simplify the approval process for permits in order to speed up the issuance.
He said: “Acceptance of this Certificate of Fitness can only gain a prime place if would-be tenant or property buyer always request for the certificate from the landlord or owner of the building before payment of their rents or conclusion of property transaction to ensure the building is indeed safe.
“The workability of the initiative depends majorly on the level of acceptance by the general public and this will speak volume about our readiness to bring about desired changes in our environment and also embrace ideas that would further ensure our safety and protection.”
Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Idris Salako, said LASBCA would be conducting stage-by-stage inspection on building construction to ensure property developers adopt quality construction methods and materials throughout the period of work before issuing the fitness certificate.
The Commissioner said existing buildings seeking to obtain the certificate and buildings detected to be distressed would be required to present satisfying results of Non-Destructive Test in order to ensure the structural integrity and prevent imminent collapse.
Salako charged the Government officials assigned to the task to ensure diligence, integrity and honesty in the discharge of their duty.
LASBCA General Manager, Arc. Gbolahan Oki, said the agency’s core mandate was to correct anomalies in the building construction industry, stressing that the agency would always act in the interest of the public to prevent loss of human lives and valuable properties.
“Without a doubt, the relaunch of the Certificate of Fitness for Habitation stands to benefit both the State and the citizenry. Obtaining the certificate entails that every stage of a building construction will be closely monitored by the LASBCA officials. This process is aimed at ensuring that all buildings in the state are deemed safe and habitable for occupants,” Oki said.
At the event, Governor presented Certificates of Completion and Fitness for Habitation to 20 property developers whose buildings were monitored by LASBCA from foundation to completion.
Sanwo-Olu also donated 30 operational vehicles to LASBCA and Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA).
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
OCTOBER 6, 2021
LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU NAMES GBAGADA HOUSING ESTATE AFTER NDUBUISI KANU
- Governor, Ex-Govs, NADECO chieftains, Navy, Others Honour Ex-MILAD at a Day of Tributes
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday named the State Housing Estate in Gbagada after the late Leader of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and ex-Military Administrator of Lagos State, Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (rtd).
He said the Gbagada Estate, which is expected to be commissioned later this year was named after Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, to demonstrate to others that Lagos State will never forget her heroes.
“It is our hope that every time outstanding and heroic leadership is recognised and rewarded, new leaders will be inspired to emerge and continue from where the departing generation left off,” he said.
Speaking during a Day of Tributes in honour of Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu organised by the Lagos State Government at the Blue Roof, LTV Complex, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the deceased as “a most visionary and courageous Governor of our dear Lagos State” and an “Outstanding Nigerian.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu said Admiral Kanu, in his service as Military Governor of Lagos State, between 1977 and 1978, “was one of those who laid the foundation of modern Lagos; a foundation that his successors have been proud to inherit and build upon.”
He said Nigerians owe Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu and other NADECO comrades gratitude for their selfless and tireless struggle for the entrenchment of democratic system of government in Nigeria.
In his welcome address, Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, described the late Kanu as a man who played his role well and had impact in the lives of Nigerians, worked towards the unity and fought for the actualisation of democracy in Nigeria as well as an achiever who lived and died for the good of the people.
He said: “The late Admiral Kanu, a tested nationalist, lived his life for the good of the people. He loved the people and was always willing to make them happy.
“A dependable and trustworthy comrade, he lived a contented life, devoid of avarice and unbridled pursuit of personal wealth.
“He loathed injustice as a plague. A pro-democracy activist, he detested oppression and was at the forefront of the battle against military dictatorship between 1993 and 1999.”
The National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, described the late Kanu as a patriot and partner in the struggle for democracy and enthronement of true federalism in Nigeria.
Tinubu, the former Governor of Lagos State, who was represented by his deputy, Otunba Femi Pedro said late Kanu is “a rare breed in his consistent and unwavering commitment to social justice, democracy and workable federalism in Nigeria” adding that “Admiral Kanu was a Lagosian, true Nigeria nationalist in the very true sense of that phrase.”
Tinubu also said “In everything that he (Kanu) did, from his work as former administrator of Lagos State to the sacrifices he made to help NADECO during the struggle for the actualisation of June 12, Rear Admiral Kanu was highly principled. He provided democratic vision and meaningful ideas to advance historic struggle.”
Also eulogising the former Military Administrator, Kanu’s wife, Gladys, son, Jeffery; NADECO leader, Chief Ayo Opadokun and others described the deceased as a detribalised Nigerian, freedom fighter, disciplined, principled, patriotic and selfless man who should be celebrated.
The Day of Tributes was also attended by the Governor’s wife, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, former Governors and Deputy Governors, members of the Lagos State Executive Council, serving and retired Military officers, NADECO chieftains, family members of the deceased, representatives of Christians Association of Nigeria (CAN), ethnic groups, among others.
Kanu, a retired Naval Officer, former Military Governor of old Imo State and former member of the Supreme Military Council (the highest decision-making organ of the then military government), who hailed from Ovim Village in Abia State, died on Wednesday, January 12, 2021 at the age of 78.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
OCTOBER 6, 2021
LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR
PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU SWEARS IN 10 PERMANENT SECRETARIES, URGES THEM ON SERVICE DELIVERY
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged the newly appointed Permanent Secretaries to reciprocate the trust reposed in them by giving their best in providing quality service delivery in the discharge of their duties and responsibilities to Lagosians.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of 10 Permanent Secretaries at the Lagos House Ikeja on Wednesday, Governor Sanwo-Olu said his administration remains committed to its THEMES agenda, which is the sign post of what is driving the government toward achieving its “Greater Lagos” agenda.
The appointment of the new Permanent Secretaries, Sanwo-Olu said, is a well-deserved elevation for the ten newly sworn in, noting that it was strictly based on merit and track records of performance in their previous duty posts.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also implored the new Permanent Secretaries to give everyone a positive experience as they continue to contribute their quota to service for the benefit of Lagosians.
He said they should render quality service to the people of Lagos State by making them know that public service of Lagos State is the best in the country and one that people are truly proud of.
While presenting the new Permanent Secretaries, the Head of Service, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola said two of them, who were appointed Auditors-General for the State and Auditor-General Local Governments would be operating in acting capacity pending their confirmation by the State House of Assembly.
He urged them to hit the ground running and justify the Governor’s confidence in them. He added that the new Permanent Secretaries should add value to the quality of Policy Development and implementation in the Lagos State Civil Service.
Speaking on behalf of the appointees, in their votes of assurance, Mr. Sunday Jokotola who is the Permanent Secretary and Tutor General (Education District Four), thanked the Governor for the confidence reposed in them while promising to key into the THEMES agenda and perform their duties according to the law guiding their appointments.
He also promised that the appointees would be loyal and they will not disappoint Governor Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos State Government.
The new Permanent Secretaries are Mr. Jokotola, Sunday Agboade (Tutor General District IV), Mrs. Emokpae Olatokunbo Ibironke (Commerce, Industry and Cooperative), Mrs. Salami Olubukola Oyenike (Judicial Service Commission), Mrs. Zainab Oluwatoyin Oke-Osanyintolu (Parastatal Monitoring Office), Mrs. Sanusi Rukayat Alake (Debt Management Office) and Mr. Abolaji, Abayomi Abolanle (Education).
Others are; Mrs. Bolarinwa Kikelomo Afusat (Local Government Establishment, Training and Pensions) and Engr. Daramola Olufemi Olubunmi (Public Works Corporation) while Mr. Sikiru Salami, Auditor-General and Mr. Obafemi Ogunlana, Auditor-General for Local Government were both sworn-in in acting capacity until their confirmation by the State House of Assembly.
SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
OCTOBER 6, 2021
JULIUS BERGER WINS FRSC’S AWARD FOR ROAD TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BEST PRACTICES STANDARD…as FRSC Hails the Company’s Drivers’ Competence, Reduction in Road Traffic Crashes
Nigeria’s leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria PLC during the week received the significant Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC Award of recognition for Best Practices in the implementation of Nigeria’s Road Transport Safety Standard Scheme.
According to the FRSC, Julius Berger won the award for the company’s compliance with the best expectations in applying the stipulated guidelines as stated by the Corps Transport Standardisation Office.
In a letter conveying the Award to the company, the FRSC said that, “the Federal Road Safety Corps as a lead agency in road traffic and safety management through its Road Transport Safety Standardization Scheme (RTSSS) introduced the certification of fleet operators’ drivers as a basic safety requirement for drivers education and fleet management standardization with a view to minimize their involvement in avoidable Road traffic Crashes (RTC)”
It added that previous participation of the company in the certification programme has yielded positive result as evident in improvement in the driver’s proficiency and the reduction of RTC involving the company.”
According to the FRSC, following earlier correspondences with Julius Berger, the Corps conducted the certification of drivers and inspection of the company’s vehicles nationwide. “Due to the busy schedule of the drivers, the exercise was decentralized and conducted in different centres including Kaduna, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Uyo, Warri and Onitsha. The Corps ensured that all the drivers were certified with a view to developing their driving competency towards better service delivery…which will no doubt lead to improved productivity,” the FRSC said.
With the objectives of “improving truck driving skills and knowledge of emerging trends in road traffic safety, educating them on new dynamics in driving, evaluating the drivers level of understanding of the Nigerian Highway Code and other traffic related issues and educating the participants on how to manage truck driving related stress,” the programme, according to the FRSC, showed that Julius Berger has really impacted much training on their drivers that there is drastic reduction in recorded road traffic crashes involving the company’s drivers. The FRSC on an evaluative scale, hailed the improved driving competence and safety orientation and practices of JBN’s fleet drivers.
The Corps Transport Standardisation Officer, Corps Commander Abiodun Akinlade, presented the award to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc in Abuja on behalf of the Corps Marshal of the FRSC
Reacting to the Award, the Head, Media Relations Office of JBN Plc, Prince Moses Duku thanked the FRSC for the significant and encouraging award. Duku said, “…over the years, Julius Berger has seriously committed tremendous amount of resources into improving the professional competence and safety orientation of its hundreds of drivers, and operational teams in general.
Duku further added “…for the good reason of our manifest operational scope and geographical spread, Julius Berger is not relenting in its consistently intentional and proactively self-driven safety mandate. It is also to be noted that in the engineering construction sector and its necessarily huge and routine logistical requirements, fleet management and safe deployment of same is a fundamental necessity for our historically successful overall service delivery.”
“As Julius Berger appreciates the worthy Award of Recognition for Best Practices in the implementation of Nigeria’s Road Transport Safety Standard Scheme by the highly respected road safety regulatory authority, the FRSC, our company, as in all our professional endeavours, commits to an ever-improving road safety profile. On behalf of our MD, the executive management and entire staff, we say thank you for this award to Julius Berger on the merit”, Duku said.
James Agama of the Corporate Communications Department and Trust Ekaji of the HSE Department of Julius Berger were also in the delegation of the company that received the Award at the FRSC Office in Abuja recently.
WE WILL ALWAYS EXTEND A HELPING HAND TO SOUTH SUDAN, PRESIDENT BUHARI SAYS
Nigeria is ready to extend a helping hand to South Sudan towards political and economic stability, President Muhammadu Buhari said Tuesday in Addis Ababa.
In a bilateral meeting with President Salva Kiir of South Sudan, the President assured the full support of Nigeria to all efforts to bring long-term stability and prosperity to the continent.
‘‘Nigeria will contribute its quota as much as possible to the development of South Sudan. Take us into confidence and ask us what we can do,’’ the President told the South Sudanese leader.
Stressing the need for cooperation among developing countries, the Nigerian leader said with investments in education, improved economy, and healthcare, things will surely improve.
On the situation in Guinea and Mali, President Buhari reiterated that African leaders must support efforts geared towards the return of democracy in the countries.
The President expressed concern that as long as Libya remained unstable, the proliferation of arms and the problems in the Sahel would continue.
In his remarks, President Kiir , who acknowledged Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa, appreciated the country’s effort in the liberation struggle of South Sudan.
He also commended the First Lady of Nigeria for assisting in the education of many South Sudanese girls in the country.
‘‘In West Africa, ECOWAS intervenes immediately whenever a country has a problem. That should be adopted in East and Central Africa,’’ he said.
President Buhari and President Kiir were among several African leaders that attended the inauguration ceremony of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia for a second five-year term in office.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
October 5, 2021