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We Won’t Confront Sit-At-Home Promoters But Will Ensure WAEC Candidates Are Not Affected – Otti
AFOLABI
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has stated that his administration does not intend to engage in unnecessary confrontation with those promoting the May 30 sit-at-home in honour of those killed during the Nigerian civil war.
The governor made this known in a statement on Thursday through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, affirming the people’s right to mourn their dead.
The Governor disclosed that the government is working with schools to ensure that students currently sitting for the West African Examination Council (WAEC) exams are not adversely affected.
He said,
“The government is in touch with all the affected schools to ensure that WAEC exams are not disrupted.
“We are working on managing the situation without unnecessary confrontation with those advocating for the sit-at-home to honor their deceased loved ones. They have every right to mourn, considering the history of the war. This is not a matter of politicizing.
“The war was a tragic period, and remembering the genocidal events is an emotional experience.
“We do not wish to confront those observing this moment of remembrance. Instead, we are handling the situation with wisdom and diplomacy, engaging with all involved parties.
“While we are taking certain measures that we prefer to keep private, our main goal is to ensure students can take their exams peacefully.
“Rest assured, we are implementing measures to maintain peace in Abia State.”
Recall that the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) had on Tuesday reiterated that 30th May is crucial and respected for Igbo people and residents of the South-East to honour those who died during the Civil War between 6 July 1967 and 15 January 1970.
According to statement by its media and publicity secretary, Emma Powerful, on Tuesday, IPOB said, “wish to remind every person resident in Biafra territory that 30th May 2024 sit-at-home in commemoration of Biafra Heroes Day is sacrosanct and we obliged everyone to abide to this order, its only one day.
“As long as Biafra Land is concerned, IPOB remains a very important state actor on the issues concerning Biafra. The remembrance of all those who fought for Biafra freedom and sovereignty remains imperative, and no government or security agency has any authority to harass any innocent person during that event. We are urging all state governors in Biafra Land to ensure the safety of persons and properties on that day.”a
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, has revealed that the Kaduna Refinery was not calibrated to process Nigeria’s crude oil.
Lokpobiri made the shocking revelation on Wednesday when he featured in a Channels TV programme to speak on President Bola Tinubu’s first year in office.
“What I said was that Nigeria had always imported crude based on the peculiarities of the refineries. And that is why I was giving example of the Kaduna Refinery. We were importing crude oil from Venezuela.
“Nigeria’s crude is one of the lightest crude in the world. It is one of the sweetest crude in the world. Some refineries are not calibrated for that.
“That was why the Kaduna Refinery was one that was meant to refine very thick crude oil. So, they were importing from Venezuela. So, it is not happening for the first time,” Lokpobiri said.
…orders Amaewhule, 24 other to stop parading as speaker, lawmakers
A Rivers State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has declared the seats of the 25 lawmakers, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC, vacant pending the determination of a suit before it.
People Talk: We don't know what's going on,' Nigerians lament over fuel scarcity0:00 / 1:07
The court, however, ordered the Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, to stop parading as the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly and bared the 24 lawmakers, who are all Anti-Siminalayi Fubara, the governor of the state, from posing as lawmakers in the state.
Hon. Justice Charles Wali gave the order in Suit No PHC/1512/CS/2024, brought by Rt. Hon. Victor Oko Jumbo, Speaker, Rivers State House Of Assembly, Hon. Sokari Goodboy Sokari and Hon. Orubienimigha Adolphus Timothy, on the crises rocking the legislative arm of the state.
Defendants in the cases are Hon.martin Chike Amaewhule, Hon. Dumle Maol Hon. Major Jack, Hon. Franklin Uchenna Nwabochi, Hon.christopher Kagbang Ofiks, Hon. Azeru Opara, Hon. Enemi Alabo George, Hon.Granville Tekenari Wellington, Hon. Ngbar Bernard, Hon. John Dominic Iderima.
Others are: Hon.queen Uwuma Tony Williams, Hon.loolo Isaiah Opuende, Hon.abbey Peter, Hon. Igwe-obey Aforji, Hon. Justina Emeji, Hon. Ignatius Onwuka, Hon.chimezie Nwankwo, Hon. Lemchi Prince Nyeche, Hon. Barile Nwakoh, Hon. Emilia Lucky Amadi, Hon. Nkemjika Ezekwe, Hon. Davids Arnold Okobiriari, Hon. Nwankwo Sylvanus Hon. Gerald Oforji, and Wami Solomon.
The Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the Honourable Chief Judge Of Rivers State, Simeon Amadi, are the second set of defendants in the suit.
Wali in the Interlocutory Order, ordered that the lawmakers, who are Pro-Nyesom Wike, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, from parading as lawmakers to the determination of the substantive case.
The order read, “An Order of Interlocutory Injunction is granted restraining the 1” to 25th Defendants from parading land holding out themselves as members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and/or meeting/sitting at the Auditorium of the House of Assembly Quarters located at Aba Road;
“…Port Harcourt or at any other place whatsoever to purport to carry out the legislative business of the Rivers State House of Assembly, their legislative seats having been declared vacant pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.
“An Order of Interlocutory Injunction is hereby made restraining the 26th to 28th Defendants from dealing with, interfacing, accepting any resolutions, bills and/or howsoever interacting with the 1at to 25th Descendants in their purported capacities as members of the Rivers State House of Assembly their legislative seats having been declared vacant with effect from 13th December,2023 pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.
“That this case is adjourned to 1st July, 2024 for Mention.”
…says application portal for students of state institutions opens in 3 weeks
…asks state institutions to submit their students’ data
The Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND said it has received over 60,000 applications from students of federal government institutions since it launched the students loan application portal.
However, NELFUND revealed that 30,000 applications have been successfully processed.
NELFUND also said so far, 90 percent of federal universities have submitted their students’ data to its dashboard, adding that 10 percent of federal institutions were yet to submit theirs.
Besides, the students loan agency declared that its portal for submission of data from state owned tertiary education begins in three weeks time.
To this end, it appealed to state institutions to begin submission of data of their students for onward processing.
Minister of works, David Umahi has given an update concerning the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.
Umahi said the Federal Government has paid a total of N2.7 billion compensation to those affected by ongoing demolitions that has to do with the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.
Umahi also disclosed that the project has not been cancelled as alleged in some quarters.
The minister stated this on Wednesday while briefing newsmen at his residence in Abakiliki.
He maintained that by Monday next week, another N7.13 billon, being the second phase of compensation, would be paid to those whose properties were affected..
Umahi said, “There are actually two challenges; the Ugwuaja community were saying we were going through the coast and it is their ancestral home. But that was not the issue.
“We were having so many cables, MTN and African Post and it came from the ocean and birth at the ocean shore.
“What I was hearing people saying is that we hit that thing and we stopped. Some even said the project is cancelled. There is nothing like that.
“I am a fellow of the Nigeria Society of Engineers. What we did was not to follow the new proposed alignment, not to follow the gazetted alignment. We went totally out and that was on kilometre 20 and it now bypassed everything and went further away from the ocean shore from the gazzeted plan and it will cost me more money.
“But the entire community of Ugwuaja were singing praises of President Bola Tinubu and then the entire cable was saved. We would not even want to place the road by the side of the cable because it will generate heat and noise which will affect the quality of the cable.
“So, the cable is totally saved and not even close to it. It occurred at about kilometre 22 and started to realign at kilometre 20 and then we came back to our coast at kilometre 25. As we are talking, the demolition of shanties and some infrastructure is ongoing. We paid compensation of about N2.7 billion.
“Between now and maybe Monday, we will pay another compensation of about N7.13 billion. We are paying compensation not that everybody deserve it, but because it is also a way of helping people.
“When people build against the law, Mr President is not the type that will punish people. The welfare of the people is what he signed first. So, it is also a way of helping even though we don’t encourage people to build against the law.
“The project is of course moving. In fact, the section one has started in three sections-three sections and the section two, which has just been approved, has also started. What people do not know is that as the road is moving, it is being connected to existing or completed road.
“So, section one is 47.47 kilometres and we are moving very fast to see that by 29th of May, we would have finished that one, then we commission it with toll gate and then the combination of return on investment from the toll that will come and a lot of will come up on the shore line and then the government will also make money from it. So, it will work.
“I beg our people, especially people of the Southeast. Let us go into investigative journalism. You know my status in the society. Who is Landmark? What investment does he have there that all these noise is being made? Go to the Total Estate and find out. There are two Obas within that zone.”
'Nigeria has lost a gem to the cold hands of death'
The nation was, in the early hours of Sunday, 26th May 2024, awoke to the sad news of the demise of DIG Larmorde, who was undergoing medical treatment in faraway Egypt. The news of his demise was shocking to the generality of Nigerians who knew him in much the same way as it evoked a deep sense of loss for those who had the good fortune of working and interacting closely with this dutiful, unassuming and gentlemanly Officer of the Nigerian Police Force.
My first encounter with DIG Lamorde was in 2007, when I was representing a high-profile political figure from the south-south geopolitical zone of the country. He was courteous and pleasant and treated my client with dignity. Our parts were to cross again in November 2011 when President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, appointed him as the Ag. Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) while I was serving as the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.
In all my interactions with him and his official capacity as chairman of the EFCC, I found Ibrahim Lamorde to be passionate and dutiful in the discharge of his duties. Under him, the EFCC’s operations were professional, cases were painstakingly investigated, and the rights of persons under investigation were duly respected as they were treated with respect and the dignity they deserved. Mr Ibrahim Lamorde would, in his characteristic candour, proffer opinion based on facts before him and independently discharge his duties in accordance with the dictates of his conscience and the best traditions of reputable investigating authorities.
DIG Ibrahim Lamorde (Rtd)
Despite his rank and exalted position, Ibrahim Lamorde was never carried away with the allure of power. He was humble yet firm in his convictions. I recall vividly his discussions with me regarding his modus operandi as a top cop and Chairman of the EFCC. He stated, “Public Officers must hold themselves accountable to their superiors, the society and most importantly, God.” This was the barometer against which all his official actions and conduct were measured. He often reiterated his resolve not to pander to the wishes of people in authority, as he felt bound to do right at all times and circumstances. Given my experiences with those who have held the office of EFCC Chairman before and after him, I am moved to state boldly that he was a rare gem.
As we mourn his passing to the great beyond, I am convinced that his good works will speak for him before his creator. May Allah console his family and grant him Ajannah Firduarsi.
Adieu to a Gentleman, Officer, and Patriot.
Signed
Mr. Mohammed Bello Adoke, CFR, SAN
President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yakubu Maikyau, has reacted to the conflicting interim injunctions that has been granted on the Kano Emirate tussle.
In a statement released on Wednesday, May 29, Maikyau called for an urgent review of the professional conduct of both the counsel and judges involved in these matters.
Maikyau also called for the respective heads of the courts to investigate the conduct of the judges and report their findings to the National Judicial Council (NJC) for necessary action.
He said;
“I must say, without any equivocation, that the conducts of counsel and the Courts in the handling of the proceedings which culminated in the orders issued by the Federal High Court, the Kano State High Court and again the Federal High Court, in circus, have brought utter disgrace and shame to the profession have exposed the entire legal profession in Nigeria to public ridicule and opprobrium.
“The damage is one that would take the legal profession a long time to recover from. It is unfortunate and was totally uncalled for. For a country whose legal resources and expertise have for several decades been exported and positively impacted not only the African continent but the world at large, it is completely unacceptable that the processes of our courts would be deployed in the manner we have witnessed in the last couple of days, on a subject matter that is as clear as chieftaincy dispute.
“This is a subject that has been sufficiently dealt with by legislation and case law, leaving no one confused about the jurisprudence on the subject-both procedural and substantive.
“Without prejudice to the subsisting actions before both the Federal High Court and the Kano State High Court, it is my considered view that there is an urgent need to scrutinize the professional conduct of both Counsel and the Judges involved in these matters. This is to enable the relevant bodies or institutions to determine their culpability or otherwise, from an ethical and professional standpoint.
“I therefore call on the respective heads of the Courts of the Judges concerned, to take immediate steps to look into their conduct with the view to finding any possible abuse of their judicial offices and file a report with the National Judicial Council for necessary action. The NBA on the other hand will investigate the conduct of the counsel involved in these cases and shall not hesitate to commence disciplinary action against them before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee, should there be any finding of alleged professional misconduct against them. The Chairman of the NBA Ethics and Disciplinary Committee has accordingly been directed to invite these counsel for preliminary investigations.
“While the NBA shall continue to stand for and protect the integrity, welfare, and independence of the Bar and the Judiciary, we shall not hesitate to call out any Judge or counsel, who engages in any conduct that is capable of bringing the legal profession to disrepute.”
Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has said the state’s governorship election petition tribunal, which sat in Abuja, exposed the electoral fraud perpetrated by the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the November 11, 2023 poll in the state, Chief Timipre Sylva, the party’s chairman and a serving Commissioner of Police.
Recall that the tribunal had on Monday dismissed the APC and Sylva’s petition challenging the declaration of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Diri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as winner of the election for lacking in merit The Bayelsa governor spoke on Tuesday night at the King of Glory Chapel in Government House, Yenagoa, where he stopped for thanksgiving upon his arrival from Abuja.
A crowd of jubilant party members and supporters thronged the state airport and the Government House to welcome the governor. A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, quoted the governor as saying that during cross-examination at the tribunal, the APC witnesses shot themselves in the foot with frivolous claims and inconsistent exhibits.
The governor narrated how a former Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr. Tolani Alausa, who was procured as a star witness in the case, tainted his image by tendering false evidence before the court and was humiliated for parading fake INEC documents.
He noted that although Mr Alausa was no longer the CP in the state, the senior police officer presented himself at the tribunal to defend the fraud perpetrated by the APC candidate. Diri also said the tribunal equally excoriated the party’s chairman in the state, Chief Dennis Otiotio, for his “unprofessional conduct” being a legal practitioner. He said: “During one of the sittings, I physically went to the tribunal and I saw what transpired.
“Our party’s secretary, in the witness box, stated that most of the election materials the APC presented as INEC’s documents before the court were manufactured by the APC state chairman, Dennis Otiotio.”
President Bola Tinubu says no amount of foreign aid will help Nigeria unless citizens unite to build the country.
While addressing a joint session of the national assembly in Abuja on Wednesday, Tinubu said no institution or personality would help the country grow except the citizens.
The president noted that without the national assembly, he would not have found a path to the presidency.
“You sang out the latest national anthem, ‘Nigeria we hail thee’. This is our diversity, representing all people, and how we pledge together to be brothers and sisters,” Tinubu said.
“Without this house, I probably would not have found a path to the presidency; I started it all from here. That is why I have given that respect to you this morning and will continue to collaborate with you to build our country together.
“We have no other choice. No other institution or personality will help us, except we do it ourselves.
“No amount of aid from foreign countries can help us. Let us work together to build our nation, charting a new path.”
Tinubu thanked the lawmakers for “building up this institution to this level.”
“Our friends, old and new, to every Nigerian, I say congratulations on 25 years of unbroken democracy,” he said.
“You are the foremost leaders who speak for our people and have been at the forefront of this struggle.”
The president added that the country’s democracy must be nurtured “so that our children and great-grandchildren will be assured of prosperity, progress, and development”.
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) says plans have been concluded for the inauguration of its compressed natural gas (CNG) conversion, filling, reverse engineering, and training centre, in Abuja.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday in Abuja, Khalil Halilu, executive vice-chairman of NASENI, said President Bola Tinubu will inaugurate the facility on May 31.
He said NASENI is dedicated to supporting the federal government’s ‘renewed hope’ agenda, specifically regarding sustainable energy alternatives and a clean energy ecosystem.
Halilu said the NASENI-Portland CNG conversion and training centre was established in partnership with Portland Gas Limited.
“It is a state-of-the-art facility for the conversion of fossil fuel vehicles to CNG, a cleaner and more cost-effective alternative,” Halilu said.
Halilu said the centre, equipped with the latest technology and staffed by highly skilled professionals, would ensure efficient and safe conversions that would enhance local capacity in CNG technology.
He said the facility would also offer thorough training programmes for technicians, engineers, and other stakeholders — fostering the domestication of expertise in CNG systems and promoting the adoption of green energy solutions across the nation.
The executive vice-chairman said the establishment of the centre would mark a transformative moment for Nigeria’s energy sector.
He said the CNG centre demonstrates NASENI’s unwavering commitment to sustainable innovation and the development of home-grown technological and manufacturing capacity.
“At NASENI, we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and providing affordable, eco-friendly fuel alternatives to Nigerians,” Halilu said.
“The initiative is expected to significantly reduce vehicular emissions, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment.”
He said the adoption of CNG would boost economic benefits by lowering fuel costs for consumers and creating new job opportunities in Nigeria’s green energy sector.
More...
…Presents First Year’s Scorecard
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has revealed that his administration inherited 34 uncompleted projects, valued at over N225.279billion spread across 13 local government areas of the State.
The Governor also disclosed that under his watch, the Rivers State Government has awarded nine new road projects, valued at N534.332billion.
This is even as he described as vicious and existential in nature, the political crisis that was waged against his administration, barely three months after take off on May 29, 2023.
The Governor, however, said that the worst was over because his administration has successfully defended the rights and privileges to govern the State and advance its progress in liberty and freedom without compromise.
Governor Fubara said these while presenting an Account of Stewardship and Scorecard to mark One Year Anniversary of his administration at Dr Obi Wali International Conference Centre in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.
The Governor said: “We started this journey with a bang. We were focused. We were determined to make the change we promised with a sense of urgency.
“But then, somehow, we suddenly found ourselves in the cesspit of crisis barely three months into our tenure. It was not just an ordinary political crisis. It was a vicious existential crisis.
“But thank goodness, the worst is over. We have successfully defended our rights and opportunity to govern our State and advance its progress in freedom, and we will continue to prevail.”
Governor Fubara stated that since then, a lot has changed in the political landscape, adding that he remains committed to the covenant taken a year ago to put Rivers State first, defend her interest, and ensure that the people get the dividends of democracy and good governance.
He said, “For us, any government worth its name must be accountable, responsive, and responsible for the security and well-being of the people.
“Having managed the affairs of our State for one year, including dispensing public resources, it is only proper that we render account with a public presentation of our performance record.
“I am, therefore, pleased to stand before you to present our Scorecard for the first year we have been in office as the Executive arm of the Government of Rivers State.”
Governor Fubara reflected on his promise to deliver on the core priorities of economic growth, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and agriculture, as contained in his Blueprint as a resolve to building a virile, resilient, and progressive State that caters to the needs of the people.
The Governor said, he was proud to report that, despite the unprecedented challenges, his first one year in office has witnessed significant achievements visible to everybody.
Governor Fubara particularly said that he inherited a State, whose economy was on a declining trajectory despite its growth potentials, but within one year of his administration, the negative narrative has changed for the better.
The Governor revealed that he set up an Internally Generated Revenue (IGR)/Investment Advisory Committee that he chairs to coordinate activities in the sector that has increased inflow of economic investments to the State.
He said: “We also needed to attract investments into the State and increase our internally generated revenue base as too much reliance on federal allocations was a challenge to the realisation of our development goals.
“We, therefore, set up an IGR/Investment Advisory Committee, which is helping us to navigate our course for increased economic investments and internally generated revenue to accelerate economic growth, create jobs and advance the welfare and well-being of our people.”
Governor Fubara emphasised: “Our liberalised business-friendly economic policies and programmes are boosting confidence and attracting local and international investors and investments into the State, judging by the expression of interest offers we receive every month.
[STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE] President Tinubu Inaugurates National Assembly Library, Calls for Collective Action On Unity
Admin![[STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE] President Tinubu Inaugurates National Assembly Library, Calls for Collective Action On Unity](/media/k2/items/cache/7b0a9d055eed1ca3c02b651a65d6fc8c_XS.jpg)
President Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday in Abuja, inaugurated the National Assembly Library and Resource Centre, which is named in his honour.
Before the inauguration of the library, the President had briefly attended a commemorative sitting of the National Assembly, where he made extemporaneous remarks.
President Tinubu, who had signed the National Anthem Bill, 2024, into law at the Presidential Villa earlier on Wednesday, said he was at the National Assembly as a mark of respect, and to congratulate the legislators and Nigerians on the 25th anniversary of Nigeria's unbroken democracy.
He extended his gratitude to the lawmakers and acknowledged the efforts and sacrifices made to build and sustain the country's democratic institutions.
"Our friends, old and new, to every Nigerian I say congratulations on 25 years of unbroken democracy. Out of respect, I have come to say thank you very much for building up this institution to this level. You are the foremost leaders who speak for our people and have been at the forefront of this struggle," President Tinubu said.
Highlighting the significance of the National Assembly, President Tinubu referred to it as a "hallowed chamber" that embodies the nation's consciousness for freedom and solidarity.
"You sang out the latest national anthem, ‘Nigeria we hail thee’. This is our diversity, representing all people and how we pledge together to be brothers and sisters.
"Without this House, I probably would not have found a path to the presidency, I started it all from here. That is why I have given that respect to you this morning to continue to collaborate with you to build our country together. We have no other choice. No other institution or personality will help us, except we do it ourselves for ourselves.
"No amount of aid from foreign countries can help us. Let us work together to build our nation, charting a new path," the President stated.
President Tinubu also emphasized the need to preserve and strengthen democracy for future generations.
"We must nurture our democracy so that our children and great grandchildren will be assured of prosperity, progress, and development," the President concluded.
In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said the President's visit was out of respect for the National Assembly.
''Before you arrived, Mr. President, the Speaker and I had explained to the lawmakers that this visit is what is called 'waka pass' in Nollywood.
''You intend to celebrate Democracy Day on June 12, but out of honour and respect for the National Assembly you said you must pass through the National Assembly on your first anniversary," the Senate President said.
On Nigeria reverting to the old national anthem, Akpabio commended the President for taking the nation back to its roots stating: ‘‘Though we may belong to different tribes, though we have different tongues, in brotherhood we stand.’’
''There is no more fitting place to take us back to our genealogy other than the National Assembly, which is made up of patriotic and elected citizens of Nigeria. The voice of the National Assembly is the voice of Nigeria, so we welcome you,'' the Senate President added.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
[STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE] Nigeria Is an Important Business Destination for Today and The Future, Says Reckitt Benckiser As President Tinubu Receives Delegation
Admin![[STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE] Nigeria Is an Important Business Destination for Today and The Future, Says Reckitt Benckiser As President Tinubu Receives Delegation](/media/k2/items/cache/2974fa37e1f69f03a3eca67164ca7d77_XS.jpg)
President Bola Tinubu, on Tuesday in Abuja, received assurances from Reckitt Benckiser, the global fast-moving consumer goods company, that they will continue to grow their investments in Nigeria.
Receiving a delegation from Reckitt Benckiser led by the Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Kris Licht, and Chief Olu Falomo, Chairman of Reckitt Benckiser Nigeria Limited, the President lauded the company for its over 60 years of investment in Nigeria and commitment to the country’s development.
''We are creating an environment for the private sector to thrive in. I am glad that you are here to stay for the long term. I am happy that you have been in the country for many years, and you have decided to invest more. We have embarked on challenging reforms to improve the economy. Our reforms will improve the ease of doing business for partners like you moving forward,'' the President told the delegation.
President Tinubu assured investors of good returns on their investments, supported by a buoyant market and a large population.
In his remarks, Mr. Licht described Nigeria as a very important country to the company, saying: ‘‘We have had very good business here for many years, and we congratulate you on your first year in office. We see Nigeria as an important business destination for today and the future.’’
Chief Falomo, Chairman of Reckitt Benckiser Nigeria Limited, reiterated the company’s long standing commitment to Nigeria, stating: ‘‘We have asked our global team to come and assure you that we back your efforts. They have said they are not going anywhere. We are here to support this government.’’
Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
President Bola Tinubu made a notable appearance in the green chamber of the House of Representatives today, arriving at 12:31 pm for a joint session with the National Assembly to address the lawmakers and unveil plans for an upcoming 2024 Supplementary bill.
The session was attended by high-profile figures, including Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress; Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, the governor of Borno State; former deputy Speaker Patricia Etteh, and other dignitaries.
In his speech, President Tinubu urged Nigerians to focus on building a nation for future generations, highlighting the responsibility of the current administration to lay a solid foundation for prosperity and stability.
According to Vanguard, the President also said in his address that he would soon introduce the 2024 Supplemental Bill.
In addition to discussing future legislation, the session also served as a platform for the official flag-off of the new National Anthem, following President Tinubu’s assent to the bill.
Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio mentioned that the President’s visit was to address the lawmakers and commission the National Assembly Library.
Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas clarified earlier misconceptions about the purpose of President Tinubu’s visit.
He apologized for the misinformation that was initially circulated, explaining that the President’s engagement was primarily to inaugurate the new National Anthem.
Briefing the lawmakers, he thanked them for their efforts in sustaining the nation’s democracy for over two decades.
He said, “Out of respect, I want to say thank you very much. This is the institution building the country.
“Our friends, old and new, to every Nigerian, I say congratulations on 25 years of unbroken democracy.”
According to the President, the new National Assembly represent the diversity in the country.
He also commended the federal lawmakers for collaborating with the executive in building the nation, saying no foreign aid will be enough, and All Nigerians must work to make the nation for generations yet unborn.
Significant discussions and speeches were postponed to June 12, which is recognized as Democracy Day in Nigeria.