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Tinubu: “I Will Approve What Nigeria Can Afford” as the Minimum Wage

By
Ayodeji Adelusi
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Minimum Wage

According to President Bola Tinubu, a new minimum salary that the government can afford will be approved.

At a luncheon held in honor of Nigeria’s 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in Abuja on Wednesday, he made this statement.

The President thanked everyone who has supported him throughout the years and assured the people of Nigeria that he would not stray from the principles of democratic governance.

He remarked, “I have to celebrate with you, my dear brother, Senate President, Deputy Senate President,” and that he will shortly be sending an executive bill to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his deputy, Jibrin Barau, on the new minimum salary.

“What Nigerians can afford, what you can afford, and what I can afford will be the minimum wage.” If you have a size at all, cut your coat to fit you,” he said.

In addition, the president pledged to reduce food costs by combating the banditry threat that has driven many farmers off their land.

The President honored MKO Abiola and other democratic heroes earlier in his Democracy Day speech.

He also announced that a new minimum wage bill would soon be sent to the National Assembly and encouraged Nigerians to support his administration’s efforts to boost the country’s economy.

The labour and government failed to come to an agreement on Friday, June 7, 2024. While labor’s demand fell once more, from ₦494,000 to ₦250,000, the government promised workers ₦62,000 and added ₦2,000 to its initial ₦60,000.

The President received the reports from both parties and is likely to decide and send an executive bill to the National Assembly for approval of a new minimum wage bill that the President would sign into law.

Mexico Arrests Alleged Drug Boss Linked To 43 Missing Students

By
Ayodeji Adelusi
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Drug boss Allegedly arrested
On September 1, 2024, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador makes a speech at the El Zocalo Square in Mexico City at the presentation of his last government report. (Image courtesy of Rodrigo Oropeza/AFP)

Authorities stated on Friday that a suspected Drug boss who was reportedly connected to the disappearance of forty-three college students ten years ago was Allegedly arrested in Mexico following his release from prison in 2019.

El Gil, also known as Gildardo Lopez Astudillo, is a suspected Drug boss who is believed to be responsible for the 2014 disappearance and possible deaths of students from Ayotzinapa Teachers’ College.

About 35 kilometers (21 miles) north of the town of Iguala, where the students disappeared, in the southern city of Taxco, Guerrero state, Lopez Astudillo was taken into custody in September 2015.

A federal security source with knowledge of the case informed reporters on Friday that “Gildardo Lopez Astudillo was Allegedly arrested.” He asked that his name not be used because he was not permitted to speak to the media.

According to the source, Lopez Astudillo has been moved to Mexico State’s Altiplano maximum security jail.

The source stated that although the probe may be extended, he was detained on suspicion of “organized crime.”

Investigators think that the 43 students were abducted by the drug boss in cooperation with dishonest cops in September 2014 while they were on their way to a political demonstration in Mexico City.

Although the precise cause of their disappearance is still unknown, the government-appointed truth panel has declared the case to be a “state crime” and stated that the military was either directly or indirectly at fault.

Numerous suspects, including military members and a former attorney general who oversaw a contentious probe into the mass disappearance, have had their cases arrested or ordered to be detained.

Only a small number of the victims’ remains have been identified.

Family members of the missing students opposed Lopez Astudillo’s 2019 release after a court determined that the information against him was obtained unlawfully.

As family members are getting ready for protests to commemorate the anniversary of the students’ disappearance, the Drug boss has been allegedly arrested.

We attribute the decrease in DStv customers to Nigeria’s economy — Multichoice

By
Ayodeji Adelusi
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DStv Subscriptions
Multichoice Group, citing economic issues in Nigeria and throughout Africa, estimates a nine percent decrease in active DStv subscribers. Inflation and currency devaluation are two of the factors. The business must navigate legal obstacles, such as fines, while raising prices and implementing cost-cutting measures.

In its annual report, Multichoice Group reported a notable 9% decrease in active customers, mostly due to a steep 13% decline in its Rest of Africa business. Economic factors such the removal of fuel subsidies, currency devaluation, and skyrocketing inflation caused Nigeria’s GDP to decline by 18%.

In response, the company implemented cost-cutting measures and dealt with regulatory issues, which included a N150 million punishment for disobeying a court order for pricing reductions.

These elements combined to create a complicated operating environment that had an impact on Multichoice’s subscriber base and bottom line.

Cholera Outbreak: 96 LGAs Record 1,141 Cases, 30 Deaths

By
Ayodeji Adelusi
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cholera outbreak in nigeria
Beverages prepared with contaminated water and sold by street vendors, ice, and even commercial bottled water, have been implicated as vehicles of transmission.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has alerted the public to the increasing trend of cholera cases across the country, as a total of 1,141 suspected and 65 confirmed cases of cholera with 30 deaths have been reported from 96 LGAs in 30 states.

In a statement released by the center on Wednesday, it was said that ten states—Bayelsa, Zamfara, Abia, Cross River, Bauchi, Delta, Katsina, Imo, Nasarawa, and Lagos States—accounted for 90% of the cholera cases.

The Federal Ministries of Environment and Water Resources, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and other partners, along with the NCDC as the group’s leader, have reportedly been offering assistance to the impacted states through the multi-sectoral National Cholera Technical Working Group.

Before consuming, it was suggested to the public to make sure the water was boiled and kept in a clean, covered container.

Keeping your hands clean by periodically washing them with soap under running water is another piece of advise using hand sanitizer that contains alcohol In the absence of soap and clean water, make sure that food is completely cooked before ingesting it, and only eat raw foods like fruits and vegetables after giving them a good wash.

“Food should be fully warmed before consumption to prevent contamination from flies and improper handling after cooking or boiling water. It is not advisable for someone who has diarrhea to cook, serve, or carry water for others.

Steer clear of open defecation, careless trash disposal, improper waste disposal, and infrequent sewage clearing.

“Please do not self-medicate; instead, visit a healthcare facility immediately if you or anyone you know experiences sudden watery diarrhea,” the center cautioned the public.

“ABOUT CHOLERA”
The bacteria Vibrio cholerae, which is present in polluted water and food, is what causes cholera, an illness that is spread by food and water. Usually, the feces of diseased people pollute water. Drinking water can get contaminated at the source, on the way, or when being stored at home. Food may be contaminated by hands soiled while eating or preparing food.

Refreshments arranged with defiled water and sold by road merchants, ice, and, surprisingly, business filtered water, have been involved as vehicles of transmission, as have cooked vegetables and natural products renewed with untreated wastewater. Between infection and the onset of symptoms, two hours to five days pass. It is more likely to spread in places where there aren’t enough restrooms or clean water on a regular basis. The safety of water used for drinking and personal use is endangered by unsafe practices like open defecation and improper disposal of waste.

The Most At Risk Individuals Are:

  • People living in areas with restricted access to clean water, regardless of age.
  • Individuals who reside in places with inadequate hygiene and sanitation.
  • Individuals residing in impoverished neighborhoods lacking access to basic water and sanitary facilities.
  • Individuals who live in rural areas and get their drinking water from dangerous sources such as borehole or piped water.
  • Individuals who eat possibly infected fruits or food without properly cleaning and preparing them.
  • Those who don’t wash their hands when they should.
  • Natural or man-made disasters, such as floods, can cause population shifts and congested camps for refugees
  • Family members who provide at-home cholera care for ailing patients

Direct patient care is provided by healthcare professionals, such as physicians, nurses, and other health workers, in the absence of customary safety measures.

The symptoms of cholera

Cholera symptoms include abrupt onset, intense, painless, watery diarrhea (rice water stools), with or without vomiting. Frequent vomiting, nausea, and fever are possible side effects. Severe cases can cause substantial fluid loss from dehydration, which can result in mortality in a matter of hours. Nonetheless, the majority of infected individuals (about 80%) may merely exhibit minimal symptoms or none at all.

Cholera Treatment

If the sickness is found early on, it is easily treated. The majority of infected individuals can be effectively treated with timely oral rehydration solution (ORS) delivery to replenish lost electrolytes and fluids, along with the recommended antibiotics. Reconstituted with boiled or bottled water, the ORS solution is a powder. If an infected person does not get medical attention right away, cholera can be fatal.

Alcaraz Defeats Zverev To Win First French Open Title

By
Ayodeji Adelusi
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alcaraz carlos
Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz kisses the trophy after winning against Germany’s Alexander Zverev in the men’s singles final match on Court Philippe-Chatrier on day fifteen of the French Open tennis tournament at the Roland Garros Complex in Paris on June 9, 2024.

The 21-year-old overturned a 1-2 set deficit despite suffering cramps to win a thrilling match in 4 hours and 19 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier 6-3, 2-6, 5-7, 6-1, 6:2. .

Alcaraz added the French Open crown to his Wimbledon titles, won last year against Novak Djokovic and at the 2022 US Open.

He will head to nextyear’s Australian Open with a chance to become the youngest player to complete a career Grand Slam.

Fourth-seeded Zverev is still waiting for his first major title after settling a German lawsuit over domesticviolence allegations two days ago.

He also lost in five sets in his only previous Grand Slam final, when he blew a two-set lead to Dominic Thiem at the 2020 US Open.

Zverev had high hopes of finally getting across the line — he has also lost six Grand Slam semifinals — but Alcaraz was too strong in the key moments to tie the match at 5-5.

Zverev’s Nervy Start
Germany’s Alexander Zverev gestures after losing to Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz at the end of their men’s singles final match on Court Philippe-Chatrier on day fifteen of the French Open tennis tournament at the Roland Garros Complex in Paris on June 9, 2024.

Alcaraz,who said before the final that he wanted to join a list of his country’s men to win a title at Roland Garros,including his idol Rafael Nadal, collapsed in the sand in disbelief and celebrated becoming the eighth Spanish champion, with his head in his hands.

Zverev got off to a disastrous start, double-faulting on the first two points of the match and conceding abreak in the first game.

But Alcaraz was not spared the nerves of his first French Open final. He smashed a forehand shot into the stands in regulation but also double-faulted while getting the break back soonafter.

But the Spaniard didn’t take long to get going, breaking to zero in the fifth game to sink the first set.

The youngster had to fend off three break points in the first game of the 10-minute second set to hold atlove, but failed to avoid two more, another forehand hit into the crowd to go behind at 2-3. Suddenly

Zverev was fired up again, and Alcaraz struggled at the back of the field, where he conceded a double break with a double fault. Zverev finally ended the one-sided second set by serving to zero.

The German took twomore at the start of the third set to make it three consecutive service games. Afterwards Alcaraz celebrated with clenched fists for emerging unscathed from a tricky service game. One who had beendefending for a long time. Zverev’s serve was hit by increasingly strong winds, and Alcaraz’s return was surprised over the net. The Spaniard managed to keep the score at zero.

But a sharp passing shot from Zverev secured the break and prevented him from finishing the set.

Alcaraz’s spirit seemed to falter temporarily as he failed to take control of the match, eventually losing five straight games to lose the set.

Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz celebrates after winning his men’s singles final match against Germany’s Alexander Zverev on Court Philippe-Chatrier on day fifteen of the French Open tennis tournament at the Roland Garros Complex in Paris on June 9, 2024.

But Alcaraz didn’t give up without a fight, and in the fourth set, a running game that included a break led to a 2-0 lead with some great curling winners.

Just seconds earlier, Zverev had angrily challenged a clearly correct line call, drawing boos from the crowd.

The German was restless, and his serve began to abandon him. Alcaraz fought his way through the fourth set and fought off chances to decide it, but at 4-1 he had to take a medical timeout to treat apparent cramps.

Zverev had won 10 of his last 11 five-set matches at Roland Garros, but was broken by Alcaraz on a silver platter in the third game of the fifth set.

Alcaraz himself stumbled and fell behind in the next game, 0:40.

He appeared to double-fault on his second break point, but the chair umpire overruled the line judge’s decision despite Zverev’s angry protests, before Hawk-Eye replays showed the ball was out.

Alcaraz held on for a punch, but this proved to be the decisivemoment of the match.

Zverev was trailing by a double break in the seventh game as Alcaraz thrilled fans with an incredible winner before hitting a forehand shot down the line.

He sealed the historic victory with a thunderous forehand that Zverev couldn’t return.

AFP

Nationwide power outage as TCN confirms delibrate shutdown of National Grid by electricity workers union following indefinite strike over minimum wage.

By
Ayodeji Adelusi
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power grid

Nigeria Plunged into Darkness as Labour Strike Shuts Down National Grid

Nigerians woke up to a rude shock this morning, June 3rd, 2024, as the national grid was shut down by striking labour unions. This has resulted in a nationwide blackout, crippling businesses and disrupting daily life across the country.

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) confirmed the shutdown, stating that members of the National Union of Electricity Workers (NUEE) forced control room operators off duty at critical substations. This disruption cascaded through the system, leading to a complete blackout at approximately 2:19 am.

The labour unions are reportedly on strike to compel the government to address two key issues:

  • A new minimum wage: Negotiations for an increased minimum wage have reached an impasse, prompting the unions to take action.
  • Electricity price hikes: The unions are also protesting recent increases in electricity tariffs for certain consumer groups.

The blackout has significant consequences:

  • Economic disruption: Businesses that rely on electricity will face setbacks.
  • Transportation: Airports and other transportation hubs may experience difficulties due to power outages.
  • Communication: Phone and internet services could be impacted in areas without backup generators.

The duration of the blackout remains uncertain. The TCN is working on restoring power, but the situation depends on how quickly the labour dispute is resolved.

Nigerians are closely following developments and hoping for a swift resolution to the labour dispute. We will keep you updated on any further information.

Commencement of an indefinite nationwide strike in relation owing to unfinished negotiations over the ‘NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE’ and rejection of static electricity cost.

By
Ayodeji Adelusi
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nlc nigeria


The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) express their deep concern and disappointment over the failure of the Federal Government to draft and pass a new National Minimum Wage Act and roll back the severe increase in electricity tariff to 65 Naira per kWh making Today’s meeting once again proved the dubiousness and blatant contempt of the Nigerian State for being responsive to the demands of the Nigerian workers and people Neither the Governor nor any Cabinet member was present except the Minister of Labour and Employment who also acts as arbitrator There was no one present on the government side with the proper authority to bind the government to any outcome In effect the government cancelled the meeting We consider this to be contemptuous and a sign of lack of commitment to successful negotiations on the National Minimum Wage You will recall that in our last May celebration on 1st May 2024, we gave a clear ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding that this vital measure be completed by the end of the month However, there has been no significant progress or commitment from the government to meet this demand We also called for the reversal of the previous increase in electricity tariff from 225 naira/kWh to 65 naira/kWh and an end to the apartheid-induced division of consumers into groups We held a one-day protest across the country on 13th May 2024, giving the government until the end of the month to act However, despite public outrage over this ruthless increase, the government has not responded consistently and proactively Nigerian workers who form the backbone of our economy have a right to a fair and decent wage that reflects the current economic reality It is regrettable that despite our repeated appeals and clear ultimatums, the government continues to ignore its responsibilities towards the workers Instead of engaging in dialogue, it constantly unleashes attack dogs to smear and intimidate union leaders.

President-Elect Affirms Democracy As Cornerstone For Sustainable Development

By
concoursemedia
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President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu

• Buhari Says Nigeria’s Diversity Is Strength, Tasks Incoming Govt On Inclusivity
• Kenyatta To Tinubu: Be A Rallying Point For National Unity
• Akinwumi Seeks Economic Policies That’ll Move Nation Forward
• ‘Incoming President Must Rise Above Party Lines, Remove Fuel Subsidy’
• India Sends Special Delegation For Inauguration

President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday, underscored the significance of democracy, stating that it remained the only means by which Nigeria’s sustainable development could be driven.

The President-elect, whose address was delivered by Vice President-elect, Kashim Shettima, called on citizens to join hands with the incoming administration to usher in a better Nigeria.

According to a statement by Tunde Rahman of the office of the President-elect, Tinubu restated the commitment of the incoming government to democratic ideals, adding, “Democracy is more than a system of governance; it is the very lifeblood that empowers a nation to flourish and thrive. We stand at the precipice of a new era, where the ideals of democracy will guide our path towards sustainable development.”

The incoming president also embraced his African identity, reaffirming his love for the continent, just as he recognised the collective efforts of Nigerians and Africans in shaping their democratic political cultures and institutions, tailored to the unique conditions and challenges faced by their societies.

He said: “Democracy, my fellow countrymen, is not only a political system; it is a way of life. It embodies a distinctive code of thought and conduct, demanding the utmost integrity and self-improvement from leaders.”

Continuing, the President-elect, while noting that democracy guarantees freedom, stated that its survival hinges on responsible and measured use of that freedom, adding that it empowers the majority to express their will while safeguarding the fundamental interests of the minority.

“Our democracy is not an abstract ideal; it is a practical vessel that will propel our nation to new heights in every facet of our collective existence,” Tinubu stated.

Drawing insights from Nigeria’s national experience, he acknowledged the merits of democracy even in its imperfect manifestations, stressing that it surpasses the most perfect dictatorship in terms of justice, humanity, and productivity.

He stressed the importance of fostering open forums for discussion and debate, where the best ideas and policies can enter the national discourse and capture the imagination of the people.

He pledged to utilise democratic institutions not only to safeguard political and civil rights but also to drive other economic reforms that engender broad-based prosperity, create employment opportunities, and unlock the nation’s untapped potential.

“Today, I stand before you, ready to dedicate my entire being to the service of our great nation and the African continent,” the President-elect said.

IN his remarks, President Muhammadu Buhari noted that the inauguration lecture took participants on a journey of introspection on the imperatives of democratic governance and nation-building, highlighting challenges that confront the socio-political fabrics of Nigeria.

“We have learnt that democracy is not just a system of governance. It is a way of life. True democracy is when the voice of the people is heard. Our nation’s progress rests on inclusivity, unity and not leaving any citizen behind and by ensuring every citizen enjoy the dividends of good governance.

“We must heed the lessons of this lecture and translate them into action. We must fight against corruption in all its form. We must remain united. Our diversity is our strength. We can overcome our differences and forge a common cause towards progress.”

DELIVERING his keynote address, former Kenyan President, Uhuru Kenyatta appealed to the incoming President, Tinubu, to unite the country irrespective of ethnic, political and religious cleavages that may exist.

He noted that once sworn-in as the President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu becomes father to all and as such, must use his administration as a uniting force.

The former Kenyan leader said that with the contest now over, the hard work of building a prosperous and unified Nigeria begins.

“As president, you must learn very quickly to lead those who love you and those who don’t with equal passion and commitment because now, you are the father of all,” Kenyatta said.

MEANWHILE, President of African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, has called on the incoming President, Asiwaju Tinubu, to rise above party lines and other affiliations and forge economic policies with compelling force to move the nation forward.

Adesina, in his speech, noted that Nigerians would be looking up to Tinubu to solve the many challenges, including insecurity, that have conspired to weigh down the country, and divide the people.

He said Nigerians specifically desire a new administration that will guarantee security, peace, and stability and spark a new wave of prosperity that would unite the fractious nation and improve the economy.

“The starting point must be macroeconomic and fiscal stability. Unless the economy is revived and fiscal challenges addressed boldly, resources to develop will not be there. No bird can fly if its wings are tied,” he noted.

Nigeria currently faces huge fiscal deficits, estimated at six per cent of GDP. This has been due to huge federal and state government expenditures, lower receipts due to dwindling revenues from export of crude oil, vandalism of pipelines and illegal bunkering of crude oil.

According to Nigeria’s Debt Management Office, Nigeria now spends 96 per cent of its revenue servicing debt, with the debt-to-revenue ratio rising from 83.2 percent in 2021 to 96.3 percent by 2022.

Akinwumi continues: “Some will argue that the debt to GDP ratio at 34 per cent is still low compared to other countries in Africa, which is correct; but no one pays their debt using GDP. Debt is paid using revenue, and Nigeria’s revenues have been declining. Nigeria earns revenue now to service debt – not to grow.

“Fuel subsidies are killing the Nigerian economy, costing Nigeria $10 billion alone in 2022. That means Nigeria is borrowing what it does not have to if it simply eliminates the subsidies and uses the resources well for its national development.”

The AfDB president urged the Tinubu administration to rather extend support to private sector refineries as well as modular refineries to allow for efficiency and competitiveness to drive down fuel pump prices.

He expressed confidence that the newly commissioned Dangote Refinery by President Buhari – the largest single train petroleum refinery in the world, as well as its Petrochemical Complex – will revolutionize Nigeria’s economy.

He further tasked the incoming administration to urgently look at the cost of governance, stating that the “cost of governance in Nigeria is way too high and should be drastically reduced to free up more resources for development. Nigeria is spending very little on development. Today, Nigeria is ranked among countries with the lowest human development index in the world, with a rank of 167 among 174 countries globally, according to the World Bank 2022 Public Expenditure Review report.

“To meet Nigeria’s massive infrastructure needs, according to the report, will require $3 trillion by 2050. According to the report, at the current rate, it would take Nigeria 300 years to provide its minimum level of infrastructure needed for development. All living Nigerians today, and many generations to come, will be long gone by then!

“We must change this. Nigeria must rely more on the private sector for infrastructure development to reduce fiscal burdens on the government.”

However, simply raising taxes is not enough, as many question the value of paying taxes, hence the high level of tax avoidance. Many citizens provide their own electricity, sink boreholes to get access to water, and repair roads in their towns and neighborhoods.

“These are essentially high implicit taxes. Nigerians therefore pay the highest ‘implicit tax rates’ in the world. Governments need to assure effective social contracts by delivering quality public services. It is not the amount collected, it is how it is spent, and what is delivered. Nations that grow better run effective governments that assure social contracts with their citizens.

“We must re-balance the structure and performance of the economy. A very common refrain in Nigeria, with every successive government, is “we need to diversify the economy.”

He expressed readiness of AfDB to help to expand the country’s human capital of every state, adding, “We are equally ready to help revamp agricultural lending institutions to help modernise the food and agriculture sector.

“The best asset of Nigeria is not its natural resources; Nigeria’s best asset is its human capital. We must invest heavily in human capital to build up the skills Nigeria needs to be globally competitive, in a rapidly digitized global economy.

The well-attended lecture had in attendance the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Abdullahi Adamu; Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Idris Wase; Secretary to the Government of Federation, Boss Mustapha; His Eminence, Sultan Mohammed Abubakar Sa’ad of Sokoto; Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi; Most Rev. Bishop Mathew Kukah, and Deputy Secretary-General of United Nations, Amina Mohammed.

Others attendees included Ministers, National Assembly members and top government officials.

 

Ahead of tomorrow’s inauguration ceremony, the Indian government has sent its Defence Minister, Mr. Rajnath Singh, as a Special Envoy of the Prime Minister to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the President-elect, Bola Tinubu.

In a statement by the Indian Embassy in Nigeria, yesterday, India stated that Mr. Singh would arrive in Abuja, today for the occasion.

“The visit of Mr. Rajnath Singh reflects the growing bilateral relations between India and Nigeria and signifies India’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria.

“Mr. Singh is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of External Affairs of India. He is the most senior Minister in the Government of India.

“Sending such a senior Minister to Nigeria as a Special Envoy of the Prime Minister of India reflects India’s commitment to the deep-rooted bilateral relations with Nigeria,” the statement added.

The Guardian

Tinubu Takes Oath as Nigeria’s 16th President Today

By
concoursemedia
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messenger sharing buttonAsiwaju Bola Tinubu will today make history as he will be sworn-in as the 16th president of Nigeria in Abuja. In this report, Adedayo Akinwale takes another look at Tinubu’s 80-page Action Plan to transform the nation.

In October, 2022, the Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Tinubu launched an ambitious 80-page Action plan tagged Renewed Hope 2023. The document encapsulated his plan to transform Nigeria if elected the president.

As fate would have it, Tinubu was declared  winner of the February 25, 2023 presidential poll having polled  8,794,726 votes to defeat his closest challenger, Atiku abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who scored  6,984,520 votes and Peter Obi of the Labour Party who came third with a total of 6,101,533 votes, while Rabiu Kwankwaso of the NNPP came fourth with 1,496,687 votes.

Nevertheless, Nigerians are not new to  political parties’ manifesto. The 15th president of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, did the same. But one thing has been constant like a northern star, the more documents the politicians launch, the country has been repeatedly worse off at the end of their tenure.

In the case of Buhari, if at all he had any policy document, the best such policy document did was to bring Nigeria’s economy to its knees, while poverty conveniently resides in Nigeria and unemployment rate in the country has been awarded a Nigerian citizen. It’s a kind of affliction that Nigerians do not pray for it to rise a second time.

Without sugarcoating it, due to past ugly experiences, Nigerians are not really enthusiastic about any policy document of any politician or administration. They are just ready to roll with whatever policy each administration brings.

However, having survived the eight-year rule of Buhari, Nigerians will be willing to see how Tinubu hopes to transform the country, build on the successes of Buhari, if any, and reverse, most importantly the negative economic indices, while improving on the country’s security architecture, as well as reducing the unemployment rates.

Security

Expectedly, in the 80-page document, Tinubu promised to establish highly trained and disciplined anti-terrorist battalions to tackle insecurity in the country.

The president-elect said the military units would be better equipped with tactical communications gear and new vehicles to give them a greater communications and mobility advantage over criminals, bandits and terrorists.

Tinubu assured that his government would  reduce the country’s dependence on imported foreign military equipment by ramping up domestic production of basic and essential military hardware and equipment, including small arms and ammunition.

He said: “Highly trained and disciplined anti-terrorist battalions (ABATTS) with special forces units will be created. Their objective shall be to seize the strategic and tactical initiative, in the hands of terrorists, kidnappers and bandits.

“We will further modernize our Armed Forces by ensuring that our weapons systems (land, sea and air) are capable of addressing current and anticipated security threats in the modern world. This shall also mean the recruitment of people who possess the technical skills required for today’s military.”

The president noted that the Police Force would be repositioned to deliver on its primary duties of community policing and maintaining law and order through crime fighting and prevention; while police personnel would be freed from extraneous duties such as VIP security and guard duties.

He explained that VIP Security and provision of security for government buildings, installations and other critical assets will be transferred to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). The NSCDC shall be evaluated and reformed to be better integrated with our internal security apparatus.

Tinubu explained that his government would  implement measures to eliminate attacks on vital national infrastructure, saying this would be known as Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) Plan.

He added that integral to this effort would be the deployment of modern technologies, tools and equipment to end crude oil theft, prevent vandalization of national assets, and reduce, to the barest minimum, environmental pollution of the Niger Delta.

According to him,  his government would combine increased aerial surveillance over land and sea with other cutting edge technology that would provide instant notification of intrusions or disruptions of oil pipelines and related installations.

He said such technology would also be deployed to monitor power stations, transmission and distribution networks, sea and airports, rail transportation, telecommunications and. other vital infrastructure.

Economy

In the document, Tinubu hinted that the budgetary procedure would be reviewed.  He explained that budgetary custom based on the country’s annual budget and fiscal policies largely on the dollar value of projected oil revenue, not only  artificially restrict the federal government’s fiscal latitude, it also unduly attracts the nation’s attention towards a single source of fiscal revenue to the detriment of others.

To him, to achieve optimal growth in the long term, government must wean itself from this limitation, adding, “A more efficient fiscal methodology would be to base our budgeting on the projected level of government spending which optimises growth and jobs’ without causing unacceptable levels of inflation. As part of this prudent growth-based budgeting, we will establish a clear and mandatory inflationary ceiling on spending. However, we must break the explicit link between naira expenditure and dollar inflows into the economy.”

Tinubu also said his government will limit foreign debt obligations emphasizing that government  can protect  exchange rates, guard against inflation and preserve foreign currency reserves by limiting  exposure to large debt obligations denominated in foreign currency.

He added that his administration will engage in extraordinary prudence in contracting debt in foreign currency. He emphasized that the policy will be such that new foreign currency debt obligations would be linked to projects that generate cash flows from which the debt can be repaid.

The president said, “Where possible, we shall limit such foreign currency denominated debts to essential expenditures that cannot be adequately addressed by either naira denominated expenditures or debt obligations.”

Job creation

He further promised that his administration will provide sufficient jobs with decent wages; revive manufacturing industries, generate, transmit and distribute sufficient and affordable electricity; manufacture, produce and market good quantities of the essential goods and services; export more and import less to strengthen the Naira; make food available and affordable; modernize and expand public infrastructure.

This, he said, his administration will achieve by building on the foundation laid by the President Muhammadu Buhari administration.

He added, “Based on our unshakable faith in our people and standing on the foundation established by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, we shall: Build a Nigeria where sufficient jobs with decent wages create a better life for all and a future of promise for our youth.

“Revive our manufacturing industries and place Nigeria back on the path of industrialization and job creation. Generate, transmit and distribute sufficient, affordable electricity to give our people the necessary power to drive their businesses and brighten their homes. Power is key to unlocking the potential of our national economy.

“Manufacture, produce and market increased quantities of the essential goods and services we require. Nigeria shall be known as a nation of creators, not just consumers.

Export more and import less in order to earn more foreign exchange and strengthen the Naira.

“Deliver food security and affordability by continuing to prioritize agriculture and assist farmers and other players in the agricultural value chain through enlightened policies that promote productivity and guarantee robust incomes. Modernize and expand public infrastructure to stimulate economic growth at an optimal rate,” among others.

As the administration of Tinubu officially takes off today after being sworn-in by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola at the Eagle Square in Abuja, Nigerians are hopeful it will be a new dawn.

Source: This Day

Full Text of President Buhari’s Farewell Broadcast to Nigerians

By
concoursemedia
-

Buhari addressed Nigerians in a national broadcast on the eve of Tinubu’s inauguration.

President Muhammadu Buhari.
President Muhammadu Buhari has made his farewell broadcast to Nigerians as he gets set to hand over the baton of power to President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

In the broadcast aired on the morning of Sunday, May 28, 2023, the President highlighted some of the achievements of his government in the last eight years, while also acknowledging that improvement is needed in certain areas.

Above all, he apologized to Nigerians who were negatively impacted by some of the economic decisions he made but insisted that those decisions were made with the good intention to strengthen the economy.

You can read his full speech below;

My fellow Nigerian brothers, sisters and friends of Nigeria.

2. I address you today, in my last assignment as a democratically elected President of our great and well-endowed nation, with a deep sense of gratitude to God, a great deal of appreciation to the Nigerian people and a modest sense of fulfilment.

3. Today we mark and celebrate another peaceful transition of power from one elected government to another in our steady march to improve and sustain Nigeria’s democracy.

4. This year we witnessed the most keenly contested Presidential Elections since the first Republic and this demonstrates that our democracy is getting better and more entrenched with each election.

5. We must as a nation improve and sustain gains we make in the electoral process, on an incremental basis for Nigeria to take its rightful place among Nations.

6. Our democracy provides for, allows and encourages seeking redress for perceived injustices, enabling some candidates and political parties that did not agree with the results to go to court.

7. Irrespective of the outcome of the various cases, I urge all parties involved to accept the decision of our courts and join hands to build a better Nigeria.

8. I salute the doggedness and resilience of all the Presidential Candidates and their political parties for believing in our judicial system by taking their grievances with the election results to court.

9. In the course of the campaigns, we had argued and disagreed on how to make Nigeria better but we never disagreed or had any doubts that Nigeria has to be better.

10. As your President, I call on all of us to bring to bear the strength of our individualism, the power of our unity, the convictions of our beliefs to make Nigeria work better and together with one spirit and one purpose.

11. To my brother, friend and fellow worker in the political terrain for the past ten years – Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I congratulate you on the realization of your dream, which was propelled by a burning passion to put Nigeria amongst the leading nations of the world.

12. You have indeed worked for this day and God has crowned your efforts. I have no doubt that your passion for excellence, reliance on competence, fairness in relationships, commitment to equity, loyalty to the country and desire for Nigeria to be globally relevant would come through for you, under God’s guidance, as you lead our country to levels higher that I am leaving.

13. You are the best candidate among all the contestants and Nigerians have chosen well.

14. The last eight years have been an exciting experience in my desire and commitment to see a Nigeria in which public goods and services are available, and accessible within a united, peaceful and secure nation.

15. Fellow Nigerians, on the strength of your overwhelming support for me and my political party, I started this journey with a great deal of promise and expectation from you. I never intended to be just politically correct but to do the correct things that will make meaningful impact on the lives of the common Nigerian.

16. This high expectation was not misplaced because, like the ordinary Nigerian, I had grown tired of watching the country progressively moving away from the path of correctness.

17. To ensure that our democracy remains resilient and our elected representatives remain accountable to the people, I am leaving behind an electoral process which guarantees that votes count, results are credible, elections are fair and transparent and the influence of money in politics reduced to the barest minimum. And Nigerians can elect leaders of their choice.

18. We are already seeing the outcome of this process as it provided an even playing field where persons without any political God-Father or access to money defeated other well-resourced candidates.

19. The Nigerian economy has become more resilient due to the various strategies put in place to ensure that our economy remained afloat during cases of global economic downturns.

20. You would all recall the supply chain disruptions and economic downturn that the world witnessed between 2020 and 2022 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The deftness of our response to the pandemic still remains a global best practice.

21. Furthermore, we increased the ability of the poor and rural Nigerians to earn a living, provided more food for millions in our villages and gave our women opportunities to earn a living.

22. Young men and women in urban centres were also supported to put their skills into productive use. Our administration also provided an enabling environment for the private sector to engage in businesses for which their return on investments is guaranteed.

23. The private sector proved a strong partner in our drive to build a resilient and sustainable economy as evidenced by the growing number of turn-key projects in various sectors of the economy.

24. In the course of revamping the economy, we made some difficult choices, most of which yielded the desired results. Some of the measures led to temporary pain and suffering for which I sincerely apologized to my fellow countrymen, but the measures were taken for the over-all good of the country.

25. Mindful of the need to ensure adequate infrastructure to drive economic growth, we completed age-long projects and processes notably amongst which are the Petroleum Industry Act, completion of some power projects, completion of the second Niger bridge and various important roads linking cities and states.

26. Our battle to ensure that all Nigerians live in a safe and secure environment has achieved considerable results. As I complete my term in office, we have been able to reduce the incidences of banditry, terrorism, armed robbery and other criminal activities considerably.

27. To sustain the gains made so far, I call on all Nigerians to be more vigilant and support the security agencies by ensuring that our values defined by being your brothers’ keeper govern our actions.

28. Up-till now, I still grieve for our children still in captivity, mourn with parents, friends and relatives of all those that lost loved ones in the days of the senseless brigandage and carnage. For all those under unlawful captivity our Security Agencies are working round the clock to secure their release unharmed.

29. Fellow Nigerians, you know how dear the desire in my heart is, to rid the country of corrupt practices that had consistently diminished our efforts to be a great country.

30. I did pursue this commitment relentlessly, in spite of the expected push back. I am happy that considerable progress had been made in repatriating huge sums of money back to the country and also taken over properties illegally acquired from our common wealth.

31. To improve service delivery, we began the implementation of a number of reforms aimed at producing an Efficient, Productive, Incorruptible and Citizen-oriented (EPIC) Federal Civil Service and the results are beginning to show.

32. On the international scene, Nigeria’s influence continues to grow as exemplified by notable Nigerians occupying headship and leadership positions in renowned global bodies.

33. Our democracy is built on and continues to thrive on the principles of separation of powers. The leadership and members of the National Assembly deserve my appreciation for their patriotism which did not detract from their roles as a check to the executive arm.

34. I also want to use this opportunity to express my appreciation to a good number of Nigerians who provided their support and encouragement to help me navigate the exciting journey in moving Nigeria forward.

35. I cannot and will not forget the millions who prayed for me during my illness in my first term of office. I am constantly praying for you and for Nigeria to thrive in peace.

36. As I retire home to Daura, Katsina State, I feel fulfilled that we have started the Nigeria Re-Birth by taking the initial critical steps and I am convinced the in-coming administration will quicken the pace of this walk to see a Nigeria that fulfils its destiny to be a great nation.

37. I am confident that I am leaving office with Nigeria better in 2023 than in 2015.

38. I thank you all. And may God Bless the Federal Republic

Source: Pulse Ng

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