Home Blog Page 18

Lagos HoS, Agoro challenges civil servants to raise the Bar in 2025

0

The Lagos State Government has called on civil servants to redouble their efforts and recommit to excellence in their duties to achieve organisational goals in the new year.

Head of Service, Olabode Agoro, made this appeal during the 2025 first workday inter-denominational prayers and thanksgiving service held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium on Thursday.

Agoro emphasised the importance of synergy and dedication among workers in various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

Addressing the gathering, Agoro lauded the commitment and loyalty of public servants while urging them to reflect on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s unwavering commitment to their welfare.

“Distinguished public servants, let us pause and acknowledge our amiable Governor Sanwo-Olu’s relentless dedication to staff welfare, as demonstrated in numerous initiatives throughout 2024. As the saying goes, ‘To whom much is given, much is expected.’

“I urge you all to recommit yourselves and redouble your efforts in discharging your duties to ensure our contributions propel our MDAs towards achieving their goals,” Agoro said.

Earlier, Mrs Oluyemi Kalesanwo, Permanent Secretary of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, urged public servants to remain thankful for God’s grace, protection, and provision.

She commended Lagos civil servants for maintaining their status as the best workforce in the country.

The event featured prayers and exhortations from both Christian and Muslim clerics, including Dr Saheed Ahmad, Rev’d Dr Oladele Ajayi, and Rev Olurotimi Taiwo.

The programme served as a spiritual and motivational foundation for the workforce as they embarked on the challenges and opportunities of 2025.

Source: PM News

Katsina governor urged to increase investment in vulnerable persons

0

An NGO, Katsina State Social Protection (SP) Forum, has urged Gov. Dikko Radda to increase investment in programmes that support the poor and vulnerable persons in the state.

The Chairman of the forum, Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdullahi, made the call on Wednesday at a news conference in Katsina.

Abdullahi, represented by a member of the forum, Alhaji Mohammed Ibrahim-Maifada, said the call was part of the forum’s recommendations for effective Social Protection programmes in the state.

Abdullahi emphasised that the call was necessary to promote inclusive growth, reduce inequality, and build a more resilient society.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Radda signed the Social Protection policy in 2023, aiming to reduce poverty levels in the state by 10 per cent by 2033.

Abdullahi said: “The forum is also calling on the governor to expedite the implementation of the policy, so as to address the increasing poverty level bedeviling the state.”

He also appealed to the governor to expand the coverage of existing SP programmes to ensure they reach all those in need, including marginalised and vulnerable populations.

Additionally, Abdullahi recommended that the government should update the state Social Register to accommodate records of all poor and vulnerable people in the state.

The forum’s Chairman also suggested that the governor should create a budget line targeting poor and vulnerable households in line with the Universal Child grant.“These programmes not only provide a vital safety net for those in need, but also contribute to economic stability, social cohesion, and sustainable development,” he said.

He called on all stakeholders, including the National Assembly members, to support and prioritise SP programmes within their communities.


NAN also reports that the Forum is a Coalition of about 20 CSOs working on social protection in the state, and it is supported by the United Nations Children Funds (UNICEF).

SP programmes encompass a range of initiatives designed to safeguard individuals and families from poverty, inequality, and various risks such as unemployment, illness, disability, and old age.

(NAN)

Source: PM News

We are determined to take Nigeria to the Promised Land – Tinubu

0

President Bola Tinubu with L-R: Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Vice President Kashim Shettima and Senate Majority Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele when the leadership of the National Assembly paid a new year homage to the President at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos. January 1, 2025

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Tinubu has expressed his deep appreciation for the continuous support from the National Assembly over the last 19 months, reaffirming his administration’s unwavering commitment to steering Nigeria to the Promised Land.

Tinubu made these remarks on Wednesday during a New Year visit by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the leadership of the National Assembly, and former principal officers of the Assembly at his residence on Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, Ikoyi, Lagos.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio led the delegation, which was followed by a similar visit from members of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF).

“Nigerians are the heart of everything we are doing. We have come to serve. You have made my day by coming on this visit. Happy New Year. May God bless you and our country and give our nation more prosperity,” President Tinubu stated warmly.

The President further emphasised the collective nature of the transformative journey his administration is undertaking. “The transformative journey we have embarked upon is for all of us. It is for our tomorrow. It is for the future generation. Your commitment will yield that fruit for the babies yet unborn.”

He expressed confidence in the nation’s ability to overcome challenges, saying, “Your commitment to value addition and bringing about the spirit of can do and must do is for all of us together.”

“It is for us to build a nation. We have confidence and competence. The enslavers want us to be anything but enslaved people, but we say no. We are determined, we are capable, and we are resolute, and we will be there. We will take Nigeria to that Promised Land with you,” the President affirmed.

Acknowledging the lawmakers’ encouragement, President Tinubu pledged to continue working diligently, embracing intellectual curiosity, and making courageous decisions for the country’s development.

“We have a saying in Yoruba that it is only a courageous dog that will capture the animal in the bush,” he added.

Akpabio, in his remarks, commended the President for his courage and reformist spirit, reiterating that the National Assembly fully supports his administration.

“On this journey of restoration, transformation and rebuilding the nation, you are not alone. The National Assembly is with you and will stand by you,” he said.

Akpabio also highlighted the positive economic outlook under President Tinubu’s leadership, citing key achievements such as the oversubscription of Nigeria’s Eurobond, improvements in ease of doing business, and growing foreign investor confidence.

“We salute our men in uniform and commend you for your bold reforms. Investors remain interested in Nigeria because of your leadership, and we will continue to smile as the benefits materialise,” he added.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, also commended the President for his support and respect for the National Assembly, acknowledging that several top figures in the administration were former members.

“Many key figures in the administration, including the President, Vice President, Wife of the President, Chief of Staff to the President, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and several ministers, were all former members of the National Assembly,” he noted.

“The National Assembly should consider itself lucky, and to God be the glory, Mr President, the National Assembly today is more united than ever,” Abbas continued.

“The National Assembly is more fulfilled than ever before because there is nothing we have ever knocked on your door to request for the National Assembly that you have not obliged. This is historic. This is commendable. We need to thank you for that,” he added.

He also expressed gratitude for the President’s efforts to bring relief to the poor, stating, “Nigerians had more challenges at the beginning of 2023, but as the year ended, more food and prosperity started pouring in. We believe 2025 will be the ultimate year where every Nigerian will be proud of this administration.”

Source: PM News

Gani Fawehinmi Lecture 2025: NBA Ikeja Set to Mark 21 Years of Fawehinmiism with Focus on Nigeria’s Economic Survival

0

The Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja Branch is marking the 21st anniversary of Fawehinmiism with the 2025 Gani Fawehinmi Annual Lecture. The event is set to take place on the 15th of January, 2025, at the Lagos Airport Hotel in Ikeja, bringing together some of the country’s most prominent legal and economic minds. The event is scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM and will feature a panel discussion on the impact of structural adjustment programs on Nigeria’s economy.

The theme for this year’s lecture, Bretton Woods and the African Economies: Can Nigeria Survive Another Structural Adjustment Program?, highlights the ongoing challenges facing African nations in navigating global economic policies.

Former Central Bank Governor and renowned reformist, His Highness (HH) Muhammed Sanusi II, CON, will serve as Chairman of the occasion. Professor Ademola Popoola, a former Dean of the Faculty of Law at Obafemi Awolowo University, has been announced as the lead speaker.

Other notable participants include former NBA President Abubakar Balarabe Mahmoud, SAN, economist and commentator Comr. Bala Zakka, and Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, a senior lecturer and director of WARDC.

The event would feature a segment – “The Gani That I Know”. Speaking in this segment are King Sunny Ade, Oyinkansola Badejo Okusanya, Nurudeen Ogbara, Olumuyiwa Akinboro (SAN), Omoyemi Akangbe (SAN), Dr. Wahab Shittu (SAN), Richard Akinnola and Ayo Olanrewaju.

The Chairman of the NBA Ikeja Branch, Mr. Adeniyi Quadri, described the lecture as a platform for addressing critical national issues while honoring the legacy of Gani Fawehinmi, SAN.

NBA Ikeja Unveils 2025 Payment Portal with Streamlined Online Access for Lawyers

0

The Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja Branch, has announced the commencement of its 2025 membership payment schedule, starting 1st January, 2025. The branch emphasizes that all payments are to be made exclusively through its official members’ portal at members.nbaikeja.ng.

Payment Categories and Fees

Each payment includes branch dues, insurance, and ID card fees.

Registration and Payment Process

The NBA Ikeja portal provides a user-friendly interface for both new and returning members to complete their payments seamlessly:

For Existing Members:

  • Log in using existing membership credentials.
  • Reset forgotten passwords via the ‘Forgot Password’ option.

For New Members:

  • Click the “Sign-Up” button and provide necessary details, including Supreme Court Number (SCN), email, and phone number.
  • Select the relevant payment category and proceed with the transaction.

Members encountering issues during registration or payment can seek assistance through the following support channels:

Support requests will be resolved within 24-48 hours after manual verification.

Members are advised to save e-receipts after every transaction for future reference. The portal also allows users to manage collective or individual payments by selecting or deselecting relevant items on their dashboard.

For additional inquiries, members can reach out to:

  • Deji Olabiwonnu, Esq. (Secretary): 08028896543
  • Florence Horace, Esq. (Financial Secretary): 08163923727

Dele Farotimi: ‘I will never flee Nigeria; my enemies must flee before me’

0

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Prominent activist and lawyer Dele Farotimi has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to Nigeria, asserting that no force can drive him away from the country he passionately calls home.

In a stirring declaration shared on his social media handle, Farotimi emphasised his determination to remain steadfast in the face of adversity, declaring, “I will NEVER flee this land, it is my enemies who shall flee from before me.”

Farotimi, a vocal advocate for justice and good governance, expressed his faith in God’s purpose for his life, acknowledging the grace that fuels his resilience.

While acknowledging the challenges he faces, he stated, “I am strong enough to rumble unruffled against principalities and powers, but I am human enough to retain the capacity to shed tears of joy in appreciation of the grace of God.”

Source: PM News

Reno Omokri fires back at El-Rufai over ‘Yorubanisation’ claims under Tinubu

0

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Former Presidential aide Reno Omokri has criticised ex-Governor Nasir el-Rufai over what he describes as a deliberate attempt to destabilise Nigeria through divisive propaganda.

In a fiery statement shared via social media, Omokri accused el-Rufai of recycling tactics allegedly used against former President Goodluck Jonathan to now target President Bola Tinubu.

Omokri questioned el-Rufai’s motives, suggesting that his criticisms of Tinubu’s administration are part of a calculated effort to sow discord between Nigeria’s northern and southwestern regions.

He challenged el-Rufai’s claims of a supposed “Yorubanisation” of the government, calling them baseless and misleading.

“Why does he only do this when we have a Southern President? The lies he is peddling about President Tinubu’s Yorubanisation of the government are coordinated,” Omokri stated, drawing parallels to the Nigerien junta leader Abdourahamane Tchiani’s recent assertions.

Omokri urged Nigerians not to accept such accusations without evidence, calling for data-backed analyses instead of broad generalisations.

“If they cite a sector, they should give Nigerians a regional breakdown of everybody in that sector rather than making broad statements to paint a manipulative narrative,” he said.

Warning of the potential consequences, Omokri cautioned against actions that could fracture the unity between the North and Southwest.

“People like el-Rufai should think twice before destabilising Nigeria,” he advised, highlighting the importance of preserving the bonds that hold the country together.


The remarks come amidst growing debates over regional representation in Tinubu’s government, further intensifying the political discourse in Nigeria.

Source: PM News

‘Direct CCB to publish your assets, encourage Shettima, others to do same’, SERAP tells Tinubu

0

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu “to request the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) to publish your assets and encourage your Vice-President Kashim Shettima, ministers, and the leadership of the National Assembly, state governors, as well as the chairmen of Nigeria’ governments to also request the CCB to publish their assets.”The president had during his first Presidential Media Chat last Monday reportedly said, “I will consider asking the CCB to release my assets.”

In the letter dated 28 December 2024 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “We welcome your reported decision to consider asking the CCB to publish your assets as a significant development, and a signal of your intent, willingness, and commitment to show leadership on this important matter of public interest.”

SERAP said, “But your ‘consideration’ would ‘carry more weight’ if you were to promptly translate the intent into action by asking the CCB to publish your assets and encouraging your Vice-President, ministers, leadership of the National Assembly and state governors, as well as the chairmen of local governments to do the same.”

According to SERAP, “Secrecy in the assets declared by high-ranking public officials to the CCB continues to facilitate corruption at all levels of government, especially in the country’s 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and federal ministries, departments and agencies [MDAs], as well as local governments.”

SERAP also said, “Secrecy in asset declaration forms also provides the biggest opportunities for the abuse of public money for private gain. Acting as recommended would reduce the opportunities for corruption at all levels of government.”

The letter, read in part: “However, transparency and accountability in the states and local governments won’t happen without you pushing for the immediate and effective implementation of the Supreme Court decision of 11 July 2024, stopping state governors from taking over local government funds.”

“Asking the CCB to publish your assets and encouraging your Vice-President, ministers, the leadership of the National Assembly and state governors, as well as the chairmen of local governments to also ask the CCB to publish their assets would promote and ensure public trust, transparency and accountability.”

READ ALSO SERAP gives Tinubu 48 hours to release ‘hungry, malnourished children, other protesters’
“Transparency and openness would also increase public confidence in the integrity of high-ranking public officials and government generally, and ensure that political authorities are honest when they provide services to the people.”

“Despite the Supreme Court decision, several state governors reportedly continue to take over local government funds.”

“Your intent, willingness and expressed commitment to promote transparency in asset declarations should include prioritising the immediate and effective implementation of the Supreme Court judgment and holding state governors to account for contempt of court, as they continue to blatantly disobey the judgment.”

“The immediate and effective implementation of the Supreme Court judgment is the best antidote for reducing cases of state-level corruption and would contribute to addressing the allegations of diversion of local government funds needed for vital public services.”

“Corruption continues to directly affect the lives and well-being of millions of Nigerians in several states, and to erode public trust in public institutions.”

“Corruption is one the greatest challenges to improving the country’s democracy and rebuilding a transparent, accountable and participatory system of governance. One way that corrupt politicians in the country have perpetuated corrupt practices is through hiding assets.”

“There are widespread reports of corruption in several states of the federation, and federal ministries, agencies and departments [MDAs].”

“The best measure of a country’s progress toward transparency and accountability is a total obedience to the rule of law. The law ought to command the highest levels of respect by, for example, the state governors immediately obeying the Supreme Court judgment and stop collecting and taking over local government funds.”

“Nigeria’s democracy ought to have as its foundation transparency, accountability and respect for the rule of law at all levels of government.”

“Treating the Supreme Court judgment with contempt is antithetical to any contemporary notion of the rule of law and democracy, and counter-productive to any efforts to hold state governors to account for their alleged misuse of public funds.”

READ ALSO SERAP sues 36 governors, Wike ‘over failure to account for trillions of FAAC allocations’
“The Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] acknowledges the importance of citizens’ access to the details of assets filed with the CCB by public officers, as contained in Paragraph 3 (c) of Part 1 of its Third Schedule.”

“According to the Code of Conduct for Public Officers, contained in Part I of the Fifth Schedule to the Nigerian Constitution, all public officers are to declare their assets.”

“Paragraph 11(1)(a)(b) of the Fifth Schedule provides that every public officer shall immediately after taking office and thereafter (a) at the end of every four years; and (b) at the end of his/her term of office, submit to the CCB a written declaration of all his properties, assets, and liabilities and those of his unmarried children under the age of eighteen years.”

“Section 15(1) of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) and Tribunal Act also requires all public officers to declare their assets.”

“Article 7(1) of the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption and articles 7(4) and 8(5) of the UN Convention against Corruption to which Nigeria is a state party contain similar provisions and requirements for public officials to declare their assets before, during, and after serving in public office.”

“The Nigerian Constitution and the anticorruption and human rights treaties show the significant role that asset declaration by public officials plays in promoting transparency, accountability and preventing and combating corruption in the public service.”

“Section 109 of the Evidence Act defines a public document to include documents forming the acts or records of the acts of public officers. Asset declaration forms kept with the Code of Conduct Bureau therefore qualify as public documents under section 109.”

“We hope that these recommendations will help guide your steps in taking the necessary action to ask the CCB to publish your assets and to encourage your vice-president, ministers, the leadership of the National Assembly, state governors and chairmen of Nigeria’s 774 local governments to do the same.”

Source: Serap Nigeria

Meritocracy and Milestones at NNPC: Setting the Record Straight

0

By Olufemi Soneye

It is important to address the concerns raised in Farooq Kperogi’s recent article, “Tinubu’s Buharisation of the NNPC”, and to clarify some of the misconceptions about the operations and leadership structure of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited.

First, employment, promotions, appointments, and movements of business leaders at the NNPC are not influenced by ethnicity, tribe, religion, or political affiliation. Therefore, decisions within the NNPC are guided strictly by merit, business requirements, and expertise.

This approach ensures that only the most qualified and competent individuals occupy positions that are critical to the company’s success. It is significant that our company focuses on efficient and effective service delivery, which is anchored on the commitment of qualified work team.

The NNPC prides itself on being a professional organisation with a diverse leadership lineup that includes individuals from various parts of the world, not just Nigeria. The presence of qualified foreigners in the employ of the NNPC, who have been bolstering the value chain of production and distribution of allied products, is verifiable.

It is, thus, sad that a professor of Mr Kperogi’s standing would resort to and play up the issue of ethnic identities in the configuration of the work team in NNPC just to demonise President Tinubu. This editorial preoccupation of Mr Kperogi is nothing but sheer red herring, ostensibly orchestrated to detract the President’s disciplined leadership that upholds the freedom of the NNPC as well as the company’s work ethic that has produced its strings of sterling performances.

Under the leadership of Mele Kyari, the NNPC has achieved remarkable milestones and recorded several “firsts” in the industry. These milestones were not defined, coloured or contoured by primordial fault-lines of tribe and religion. They were inspired by the collective drive for excellence. These milestones include groundbreaking advancements in exploration, production, and global partnerships that were previously thought unattainable. This success is a testament to the company’s focus on competence and professionalism rather than on parochialism as insinuated in the editorial offerings by Mr Kperogi.

Regarding Mr Kperogi’s notions about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it is essential to highlight that Mr President has not interfered in the operations or leadership movements within the NNPC. On the contrary, his administration has introduced transformative policies that have added immense value to the oil and gas sector and the broader Nigerian economy. President Tinubu’s approach has been to empower institutions like the NNPC to operate independently while fostering a conducive environment for growth and innovation. His reforms have set a benchmark that has significantly improved the sector, surpassing the achievements of many of his predecessors.

It is disappointing that individuals like Mr. Kperogi, who have lived and observed governance structures abroad, would overlook these accomplishments and focus on divisive narratives. Symbolism, while important, must not overshadow the substantive achievements and transformative impact of policies and leadership on national development.

We extend an open invitation to Mr. Kperogi to visit the NNPC and witness firsthand the professionalism, sacrifices, and daily efforts that go into driving Nigeria’s economic engine. He will see a team that works tirelessly to contribute to the growth of our economy and the prosperity of our nation.


The NNPC remains committed to fostering unity, embracing diversity, and upholding the principles of meritocracy. It is through such commitments that we can continue to work to achieve and strengthen national cohesion and position Nigeria as a global leader in the energy sector. We urge commentators and stakeholders alike to base their assessments on hard facts and evidence, rather than conjectures, for the greater good of our nation.

*Olufemi Soneye is the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the NNPC Ltd.S

Source: PM News

Sanwo-Olu, Prelate Abah, Orelope-Adefulire, others call for patience, unity

0

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SSAP-SDGs), Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, has called on Nigerians to remain united and patient as the government intensifies efforts to address economic challenges and promote sustainable development.

Speaking after a Christmas service at the Anglican Church, Marina, Lagos, Orelope-Adefulire expressed deep sympathy to families affected by recent stampedes across the country, pledging that the government would ensure better planning to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

“We deeply regret the incidents and extend our sympathies to the affected families. Moving forward, events will be better organized to prevent agitation and desperation among attendees. We have learned our lesson and will ensure that such tragedies do not happen again,” she said.

The SSAP-SDGs reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering peace and progress, emphasizing the importance of collective effort in achieving a better Nigeria.

“As a nation, we are determined to create a safer and more prosperous environment for all. Let us trust in God’s plan for Nigeria and work together to achieve lasting peace and development,” Orelope-Adefulire added.

Echoing her sentiments, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reassured Nigerians of the government’s determination to mitigate hardships caused by the removal of fuel subsidies and other economic policies. He highlighted ongoing efforts to improve lives through initiatives in health, education, and transportation, while urging citizens to maintain peace and harmony during the festive season.

“We cannot afford to throw in the towel now,” Sanwo-Olu said. “Yes, the removal of fuel subsidies has caused an increase in prices, but we’re seeing positive signs of recovery. Food prices have begun to come down, and I believe the Federal Government’s promise of a prosperous 2025 will be fulfilled.”

Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Oliver Ali Abah, likened the nation’s struggles to the pain of childbirth, urging Nigerians to remain steadfast in their faith and trust in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He emphasized that challenges are temporary and expressed optimism about the nation’s potential.

Similarly, Right Reverend Ifedola Senasu Gabriel Okupevi, Archbishop of the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, called on leaders to address economic hardships while urging citizens to unite in prayer and hope for a brighter future.

“The suffering in the country is immense. Our leaders must take steps to alleviate this burden and ensure that 2025 brings hope and prosperity,” Okupevi said.

Source: PM News