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  • Fed Govt will continue to prioritise military personnel welfare, says Akpabio

    Fed Govt will continue to prioritise military personnel welfare, says Akpabio

    Senate President Godswill Apkabio has restated the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to improve the welfare of members of the Armed Forces.

    Akpabio spoke after inaugurating the remodeled Officers’ Mess of the National Defence College (NDC) yesterday in Abuja.

    The Senate President said the NDC had been a citadel of leadership, producing officers that have served the country, Africa, and the global community “with distinction and honour”.

    He said: “Today, we take a significant step towards ensuring that this legacy continues for generations to come. The National Defence College officers’ mass is a testament to our collective commitment to the welfare of our military personnel and the continuous improvement of their working and living environments.

    “This remodeled facility stands as a symbol of our enduring respect and gratitude for the sacrifices that you all make as officers in the defence of our country and the global community.

    Read Also: No hunger protest in the North, says Uba Sani

    “The Nigerian government, through the military, is creating an environment that reflects the high standards of professionalism and dedication that our officers embody.

    “The Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, has shown unwavering support for the Armed Forces, and this project is yet another example of that commitment.

    “This facility, equipped with modern amenities, is a place where ideas will be exchanged, where bonds will be strengthened, and where the values of discipline, loyalty, and patriotism will be continually reinforced.

    “We believe strongly that this facility will enhance the morale of our officers, providing them with an environment that is very conducive to unwind, to reflect, and to engage in the kind of strategic thinking that is essential for the security of the global community, not just Nigeria.

    “In these, conversations will be held, visions will be met, and friendships will be forged; all of which will contribute to the strength and resilience of our Armed Forces.

    “This facility is more than just a building. It is a sanctuary for those who have dedicated their lives to the service of humanity. It is a place where the future leaders of our global community, the Armed Forces, will gather, will learn, and will grow.“

    It is a reminder of our collective responsibility to support and uplift one another, and to stand at the front lines of our national security.”

    The NDC Commandant, Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for providing the necessary support to the college and members of the Armed Forces.

    He also thanked Akpabio and the National Assembly for their support to the college.

  • FG will continue to prioritise welfare of military, says Akpabio

    FG will continue to prioritise welfare of military, says Akpabio

    The Senate President, Senator Godswill Apkabio, has restated the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to improving the welfare of members of the Armed Forces.

    Akpabio said this on Wednesday, August 21, after commissioning the remodelled Officer Mess of the National Defence College (NDC) at the college premises in Abuja.

    The Senate President said the National National Defence College had been a beacon of leadership, producing officers that have served the country, Africa, and the global community “with distinction and honour.”

    He said: “Today, we take a significant step towards ensuring that this legacy continues for generations to come. The National Defence College officers’ mass is a testament to our collective commitment to the welfare of our military personnel and the continuous improvement of their working and living environments.

    “This remodelled facility stands as a symbol of our enduring respect and gratitude for the sacrifices that you all make as officers in the defense of our country and the global community.

    “The Nigerian government, through the military, is creating an environment that reflects the high standards of professionalism and dedication that our officers embody. The federal government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, has shown unwavering support for the armed forces, and this project is yet another example of that commitment.

    “This facility, equipped with modern amenities, is a place where ideas will be exchanged, where bonds will be strengthened, and where the values of discipline, loyalty, and patriotism will be continually reinforced.

    Read Also: Akpabio: Senator Ubah was a pillar in 10th Senate

    “We believe strongly that this facility will enhance the morale of our officers, providing them with a very conducive environment to unwind, to reflect, and to engage in the kind of strategic thinking that is essential for the security of the global community, not just Nigeria. In these conversations will be held, visions will be met, and friendships will be forged, all of which will contribute to the strength and resilience of our armed forces.

    “This facility is more than just a building. It is a sanctuary for those who have dedicated their lives to the service of humanity. It is a place where the future leaders of our global community, the armed forces, will gather, will learn, and will grow. It is a reminder of our collective responsibility to support and uplift one another, and to stand at the front lines of our national security.”

    In his remarks, the Commandant of NDC, Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, appreciated President Tinubu for providing the necessary support to the College and the members of the Armed Forces.

    He also thanked the Senate President and the entire National Assembly for their support of the college.

  • FG is committed to welfare of military officers, says Akpabio

    FG is committed to welfare of military officers, says Akpabio

    Senate President Goodwill Akpabio, has reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to the welfare of military officers.

    Akpabio gave the assurances when he inaugurated the remodeled Officers’ Mess of the National Defence College (NDC), in commemoration of the graduation of the college’s Course 32, on Wednesday in Abuja.

    He said the government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, had shown unwavering support for the armed forces, adding that the mess project was yet another example of such commitment.

    Akpabio also gave assurance of the government commitment towards timely completion of the college’s permanent site at Piweyi, adding that the Senate would ensure adequate provision for the project in 2025 budget.

    “We believe strongly that this will enhance the morale of our officers, providing them with a very conducive environment to unwind, to reflect, and to engage in the kind of strategic thinking that is essential for the security of the global community, not just Nigeria.

    “In these walls that you are seeing today, conversations will be held, visions will be met, and friendships will be forged, and all of which will contribute to the strength and resilience of our armed forces.

    “As we have formally commissioned the remodeled NDC officers’ mess today, please remember that this is more than just a building, but a sanctuary for those who have dedicated their lives to the service of humanity.

    “It is a place where the future leaders of our global community, the armed forces, will gather, will learn, and will grow.

    “It is a reminder of our collective responsibility to support and uplift one another, and to stand at the front lines of our national security,” he said.

    The senate president commended the commandant and staff of the college for the giant stride being made by the college and becoming a global centre of learning for military officers from across the world.

    According to him, this institution, steeped in history and tradition, has long served as a cornerstone in the lives of military officers, providing not just a space for relaxation and friendship, but also a vital hub for strategic discussions and fostering of unity among the armed forces.

    He said the project signified that they were more or less dedicated to the ideals of excellence, discipline, and service that had remained the cornerstone of the institution.

    “The National Defence College has been a beacon of leadership, producing officers who have gone on to serve our great nation, to serve Africa, and now even the global community, because of your composition for years with distinction and honor.

    “Today, we take a significant step towards ensuring that this legacy continues for generations to come.

    “The NDC officers’ mass is a testament to our collective commitment to the welfare of our military personnel and the continuous improvement of their working and living environments,” he added.

    The Commandant of the College, Rear Adm. Olumuyiwa Olotu, thanked Akpabio for being part of the college’s transformational efforts, adding that he supported the construction of the mess when he was governor of Akwa Ibom.

    Read Also: Akpabio: Senator Ubah was a pillar in 10th Senate

    Olotu said the newly renovated mess was meant for the unwinding and relaxation of personnel of the college as well embodies the support to personnel where they can rest, regroup, and rejuvenate in readiness for their vital duties.

    “It is important, ladies and gentlemen, to place on record the unmatched contribution of His Excellency, the Senate President to this College and the officers’ mess over the years.

    “For this reason, His Excellency has been our grand patron over the years, and I would also like to express our profound gratitude to him personally, because without him, this mess would not have been established in the first place.

    Because we all remember him serving as the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom, on a visit to this College, he provided the initial funding that was used to actually erect this place that we have just remodeled,” he said.

    (NAN)

  • Southern youths hail Tinubu, Akpabio as true democrats, bridge-builders

    Southern youths hail Tinubu, Akpabio as true democrats, bridge-builders

    The National President of Southern Youth Development Forum (SYDF) Pastor Bassey James has described President Bola Tinubu and the Senate President Godswill Akpabio as true democrats, nationalists and bridge-builders.

    James also commended the harmonious working relationship and understanding between the executive and legislative arms of government.

    According to him, Tinubu, Vice President Kassim Shettima and Akpabio are patriots poised to rebuilding, reengineering and reconnecting the nation and its people.

    James, who is the Chancellor of Akpaboism Centre, recalled that the trio who were former governors of Lagos, Borno and Akwa-Ibom states made significant impacts in their states across all sectors of the economy.

    He stated: “President Bola Tinubu’s administration vision of rebuilding our dear country started years back. Although the story is long, it will take days to complete. Tinubu has over the years been building the blocks for a united and prosperous country. As a senator, he developed contacts across the nation and established friendships across different tribes and religions.

    “He is a politician with human face. When he threw his hat to contest election as the Governor of the most powerful  and populous state in Africa, the  people including both the elites, the masses, religious bodies both Muslims and Christians, traditional rulers and non-indigenes came together and voted overwhelmingly for him.

    Read Also: 600 scholars demand unpaid bailout, praise Tinubu’s for TETFund board

    “He won 2nd term as governor. This marked the beginning of Tinubu’s political movement, because Lagos is the political melting pot of Nigeria where politics, nationalism, developments, nation building and real politics including leaderships is moulded. 

    “As Lagos Governor, he created strategies for the future political projects. He keeps his team intact with focus on the national political scene. Tinubu does not dump people, he allowed his team expand territories for the interest of all. He builds trusts and has confidence backed with responsibilities. As a true believer in a Nigerian project, his friends, followers and admirers cut across all political parties. This philosophy makes him unique, respected even among the world and African leaders. 

    “This is what played at the Eagle Square, Abuja where Senator Godswill Akpabio, the uncommon transformer, the man with the Midas touch and Akpabioism from the South-south, Nigeria stepped down for the great Jagaban of Nigeria and others followed. It is only a strategist and a political iroko that can do this.

    “The vice president of the federal Republic of Nigeria also a former governor in the northern Nigeria is seen as a man with national flavour in him. He is a pro-masses and detribalised Nigerian who sees Nigeria as a country that must grow above tribalism, ethnicity and religion. 

    “During the dangerous days of Boko Haram, the governor ensured that non-indigenes are secured. He allowed them to thrive in their business and created an atmosphere for all to stay, work and grow in Borno state where he governed for 8 years. 

    “The vice president is a nationalist, a true believer in Nigeria and a very strong and courageous but humble man. Therefore his synergy with President Tinubu is the tonic for greater development of Nigeria. Then the Senate president of Nigeria, this is a man who transformed the landscape of Akwa Ibom state.

    “Akpabio is a man that is loved by his people. He opened Akwa Ibom state to the world. He is Mr uncommon helper to both indigene and non-indigene of the state. He also builds boys and watched them become men.

    “Today, his boys from his days as commissioner are everywhere. Akpabio forgives, he relates, and he keeps his people around him. The good works of Akpabio was evident as Akwa Ibom state governor, as Minister of the NDDC and Minority leader in the Senate and now the Senate president will take pages to complete. He is known as the man of vision. 

    “Therefore, the Nigeria project is saved with the three former governors as they are experienced and committed. Their history of performances in Lagos, Borno and Akwa Ibom states speak volume. Nigeria will be greater.”

    He appealed to Nigerians to support and encourage them to deliver on the promised dividends of democracy.

    He said: “My appeal is that Nigerian should encourage and support the trio. We must join hands to build our nation. Please, let’s protect our land for peace and development. Join us in National Youth Leaders Conference in Abuja, Kaduna, Owerri, Uyo and Lagos. Together we will succeed.”

  • Assessing Akpabio’s leadership style

    Assessing Akpabio’s leadership style

    By Joe Peter

    In recent times, Senate President Godswill Akpabio may have been in the news for what would advert the minds of many as the wrong reasons. And that is the image his traducers want to paint of the good man.

    They want to create for him a public perception of a villain who is incorrigibly bad and incapable of any good despite his robust record of impact in people’s lives and extensive benevolence that replete his history.

    Interestingly, these ill-informed and impish views are not only contrived untruths with factual deficiencies, they are also deliberately intended to impugn his character, lower his esteem before right-thinking people, array him against Nigerians and discredit him to reduce his electoral and national value.

    In recent times, every public utterance by Akpabio no matter how well-intentioned is deliberately skewed to meet a predetermined purpose and misrepresentation. It is why the statement of the MD of NDDC at an event in Port Harcourt which was in every sense innocent was mischievously quoted out of context and ascribed to Senator Akpabio to make him look bad enough to stir the ire of the Nigerians. How can Senator Akpabio be against people he has never missed an opportunity to show love to?

    Even his service pedigree from his life in the private sector, to that of public service beginning from when he was commissioner, two-term governor, Senate Minority Leader, Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and now President of the Senate, acquit him as a man of the people. The prejudiced views which cast him as an Aristocrat on a high horse who looks down on the people and mocks them are, of course, not valid and so are untenable in every material particular.

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    The serving President of the Senate is one leader who had long chosen to be different in life. His humble and spartan beginning had built in him the virtue of empathy while growing up. It also inculcated in him a surfeit of other values some of which are humility, compassion, generosity, hard work and the fear of God. Akpabio is an embodiment of the aforementioned sterling values. And these values are at the core of our value system which he is a part of. It is difficult to find people who are strong adherents to the value system stray into mindless absurdity in their public conduct except in minor cases of fallibility that are common to all humans. It is such a minor fallibility that Akpabio’s traducers often magnify to have his pound of flesh. But because his political net worth is more than their shenanigans and pedestrian darts, Nigerians still have faith in his leadership of the Senate.

    Reflecting on what I call political net worth, one cannot fail to see his bridge-building skill and sagacity in his political journey. Akpabio is one politician who receives a deafening ovation of almost equal measure in any part of the country he visits. He is loved, cherished and always celebrated lavishly anywhere he finds himself.

    This bridge-building skill is eloquent in the synergy that underlines the relationship between the Executive and the current National Assembly which Akpabio is Chairman. The relationship has led to increased collaboration leading to expeditious passage of Bills especially the 2024 budget that saw members of the National Assembly working round the clock to ensure its timeous passage.

    But in the face of this active collaboration, the National Assembly has not compromised its independence. It has continued to be on the side of the people and in strict observance of the principles of separation of powers. This,  it has done by opposing policies the Senate suspects would bring more hardship to the people. The case of electricity tariff and other interventions like labour unrest and minimum wage saga are testimonies of Akpabio’s commitment to the wellbeing of the people. And so let no one mislead anyone with the disinformation that Akpabio is anti-people. Far from it. His background and psychological make-up disavow such behavioural misconduct.

    It is unfortunate that many see constant friction or confrontation between the executive and the legislature as the only way the latter could be seen as being effective. What many do not know is that those confrontations are driven more by self-interest and ego and not intended to serve the collective good of the people. And in the course of the ensuing infighting, the people suffer as they are denied the benefits of good governance. A legislature that is working for the people is sober, reflective and farsighted. It weighs the implications of an action and makes decisions that align with the interest of the people. That is the 10th Senate I see under the leadership of Senator Akpabio. It is not given to unnecessary wranglings and confrontation but focuses on engagement that would pave the way for a new Nigeria.

    Akpabio’s toeing of this egalitarian path has not fared well with some political elites who have always profited from political storms between the executive and the legislature. For changing the crude politics and ensure a paradigm shift, he must be scapegoated even in common human frailties. But whose interests are these people hounding and haunting Akpabio serving? Certainly not the Nigerian people’s interest.

    I dare to add that the President of the Senate may also be a target of the hegemonic politics of a section of the North which feels that it should be in charge of the legislature as a tool to rein in the President and blackmail him at will. Such moves have at least been witnessed in the actions of some Northern senators. The protection of Akpabio is inextricably bound to the preservation of the polity and in harmony. Anything that would harm the stability of the 10th Senate under Akpabio would widen the nation’s dichotomy and introduce mutual suspicion across the political spectrum.

    At this dire time of the nation’s history, what the country needs are patriots, not ethnic or tribal champions. We need Nigerians who think Nigeria before their ethnic/tribal affiliations. We need leaders who are ready to subsume ethnic cleavages for national interest. We need leaders who are ready to stand shoulder to shoulder to salvage this Nation and restore her to the laudable dream of our founding fathers.

    Akpabio is a spectacular example of this national ideal. He is broad-minded, accommodating, receptive, sensitive and at home with every section of the country.

    Nigeria would not have asked for a better head of the Legislature at a time like this. Let us rally around him, support him and maximise his experience and leadership potential for national development.

    • Peter is a public affairs analyst

  • Northern youths pass vote of confidence on Tinubu, Akpabio

    Northern youths pass vote of confidence on Tinubu, Akpabio

    The Arewa Youth Consultative Movement (AYCM), has passed a vote of confidence on President Bola Tinubu and Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

    The National President, Comrade Kabiru Yusuf who addressed the press on behalf of the group, said President Bola Tinubu was widely acknowledged for his significant accomplishments in human capacity development and infrastructural enhancement in Nigeria.

    He said, President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio have made monumental achievements geared towards economic recovery and the promotion of unity and peaceful coexistence in the country.

    Kabiru explained that, the Coastal Superhighway Initiative, the South East Development Commission, the NYSC Trust Fund, and the Student Loan Scheme stand as tangible testaments to the forward-thinking leadership of President Bola Tinubu’s administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda, adding that despite facing economic challenges, his administration has adeptly navigated the country’s affairs without accruing excessive debt, a departure from past administrations’ practices.

    “According to Wale Edu, the Minister of Finance, the reintroduction of forex and petroleum subsidy would jeopardise the progress Nigeria has made in reducing the percentage of revenue allocated to servicing debts, which has decreased from 98% to 67%. This could compel Nigeria to borrow for essential governmental functions, such as salary payments and infrastructure development.

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    “The decision to eliminate oil subsidy was taken in the interest of the nation’s collective welfare. However, it has inadvertently led to a surge in prices of essential goods and food items, triggering protests and unrest, with some individuals and politicians exploiting the situation to advocate for a change in government, solely based on President Bola Tinubu’s Southern origin, noting despite these challenges, we advocate for unity and inclusivity across all regions of the country.

    “We make bold to declare that President Bola Tinubu remains resolute in forging collaboration and engagement with all stakeholders, including the youth, to realize the vision of a prosperous Nigeria. The ongoing refurbishment of the three refineries underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring efficient domestic petroleum supply and meeting the nation’s energy needs.”

  • Of Akpabio, Senate and secured future of Nigerian youths

    Of Akpabio, Senate and secured future of Nigerian youths

    • By Abdulkareem Bello

    The declaration and eventual commencement of a nationwide protest, on August 1, 2024, has no doubt shown that there is anger in the land. From one state to another and then to the media space, it has been a season of anger with the attendant outcomes that often follow such ire.

    At the receiving end of that ire has been the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, albeit wrongfully. An administration which began a little over a year ago has no doubt shown the determination and commitment to right the myriads of wrongs in the country.

    At a point, they widened their dragnet to include the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio by calling for his imaginary head on a platter.

    But what could warrant the call for Akpabio’s head? What could the former two-term governor of Akwa Ibom State have done so wrong to incite Nigerian youths against him in such a manner? What could be the basis in directing their inner anger against a gentleman, who has never missed an opportunity to side with the masses? What could have made those Nigerians, though few in number, go for Akpabio’s jugular over comments that they believe were against their protest?

    The answers to the above posers are  simply, ANGER fueled by hate predicated on disinformation, misinformation and deliberate mischief.

    Without a doubt, the 10th Senate, under the leadership of Akpabio, has bested the records of previous sessions in terms of passing People-Oriented bills into law and working effectively in mutual collaboration with the Executive to ameliorate the sufferings of the Nigerian people.

    Despite only being a year and less than two months in office, the Senate under  Akpabio has recorded landmark achievements, which if well-assessed and allowed to take root, would solve most of the problems facing the people, some of which are the premises for the protest.

    Well, Senator Akpabio, I am certain, would not be surprised by the jibes being aimed at him.

    However, for those who know Senator Akpabio closely or have had a cause to watch him over the years, he certainly does not come across as someone who will mock people who are hungry or deride the downtrodden. One thing that you cannot take away from him is, his love for the downtrodden and the underprivileged in the society.

    As someone that was not alien to poverty and deprivation while growing up, he has always shown a special concern for the underprivileged and it was, therefore, absurd to notice  some individuals interpreting his comments as mocking the Nigerian people.

    Haba! No, that does not represent Akpabio by any shade. That is far from the truth and it is sad that this untruth has been the basis for the anger being directed at the President of the Senate.

    In case you did not know Akpabio or have never heard of his growing up story; the incumbent President of the Senate had to drop out of school because of the inability of his late mother to provide as little as 10 Naira for his school fees, having lost his father at the  age of six months. However, through divine providence, he was able to later acquire formal education, which he so much longed for, at a great cost and with his own sweat. Could that kind of individual have mocked people who are angry because of the current hardship which the government, (he is one of the leaders) has also recognized and is working assiduously to address?

    Following his own struggles and experience to attain the heights he is today, Akpabio has never missed an opportunity to tell about how he made a vow that any opportunity God gives him  in life or any  position he occupies either in his state of origin or in the country, he would ensure that no Nigerian child goes  through the harrowing experience he went through on his journey towards acquiring formal education. That avowal still directs his actions and he can therefore not do otherwise.

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    As God would have it, when God’s will was done in his life in 2007 as he became the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akpabio did not miss the opportunity to act on his vow. As a true student of Aristotle, who notes that “all who have meditated on the art of governing mankind have been convinced that the fate of empires depends on the education of youth,” Akpabio made sure to declare a free and compulsory education from primary to secondary school not only for Akwa Ibom Indigenes but for Nigerian children resident in Akwa Ibom State.

    Between 2007 and 2015, the then governor saw to the enactment of a law that enabled the government to prosecute parents of children who were not in school and that decision saw to the tripling of school enrolments all over the state, which expectedly led to building and establishment of more schools. Can this kind of person be accused of deriding students or mocking youths?

    Following Akpabio’s reign as Governor of Akwa Ibom State for two terms, the state, which was hitherto renowned for producing high caliber house boys and girls, gatemen and other doers of other menial jobs to Nigerian homes, moved up several rungs of the ladder in the education sector, with thousands of upwardly mobile and well-educated youths who are part of the critical manpower in various sectors of the economy today. Now, if some of those youths that Akpabio’s policies helped return to school and get educated years ago, are asking for a better life and for employment, why would he mock them?

    Interestingly also, Akpabio’s credential as a lover of education and one of the few public officers in Nigeria who believe so much in the education of youths is always reflected in his statement that “if you fail to educate the child of your neighbour, they will not allow your children that you sent abroad to be educated to enjoy their lives when they return to the country.”

    This must be the reason his joy knew no bounds when President Tinubu proposed an Executive Bill to the Senate, tagged: ‘The Students Loan Bill in Nigeria,’ also known as the ‘Access to Higher Education Act, 2024,’ a legislation that provides interest-free loans to indigent Nigerians pursuing higher education in Nigeria.

    Akpabio said in a recent interview with newsmen that the passage of the bill and its accent by the President was a dream come true and that the bill was the best that he and his colleague-senators have ever passed in record time.

    Under the Act, which the Senate under Senator Akpabio’s leadership did not waste time in considering and passing, provisions were made for the “establishment of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as a corporate body; the loan covers (tuition, fees, charges, and living expenses for students in recognised higher education and vocational training institutions within Nigeria); how the loan will be financed (i.e. allocation of 1% of all taxes, levies, and duties collected by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

    Other areas addressed by the Act are; eligibility (the bill removes the family income threshold, guarantor requirement, and parent’s loan history as prerequisites for eligibility); repayment (the repayment of the loan begins two years after the completion of the National Youth Service Programme, and beneficiaries can request an extension of enforcement action by providing an affidavit) and loan forgiveness (the bill provides for loan forgiveness in the event of death or acts of God causing inability to repay).

    A proviso for outright cancellation of the loan by the government was also made, where a beneficiary, five years after graduation is not gainfully employed.

    These People centric Bills scaled  the legislative hurdles because the President and the leadership of Senate and indeed the National Assembly which Senator Akpabio serves as the Chairman are on the side of the people.

     Akpabio being a man known  and associated with the virtue of empathy cannot be part of the denigration of humanity especially in a vulnerable state.

    His records of service speak loudly of his consistent empathy to the downtrodden. Anything on the contrary that is said of him is a ploy to diminish and devalue the essential Akpabio.

    •Bello, a Public Affairs Analyst, writes from Zaria, Kaduna State.

  • Akpabio didn’t say ‘they can protest while we will be eating’, says Eyiboh

    Akpabio didn’t say ‘they can protest while we will be eating’, says Eyiboh

    The Special Adviser to the Senate President on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, yesterday said Senate President Godswill Akpabio did not make a derogatory statement against fellow Nigerians protesting against hunger and bad governance across the country.

    The social media had been awash with a viral video where Akpabio had allegedly said the “youths can protest, while we will be here eating” during a programme organised last week by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, before the commencement of the August 1 protests.

    But Eyiboh, who was responding to questions from

    Dr. Reuben Abati on Arise TV’s breakfast programme: “THIS DAY” yesterday, said the statement was allegedly made by the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, during a programme organised by the commission.

    When Abati asked him if Akpabio actually said the words in the video, Eyiboh said they were not the words of the Senate President.

    Eyiboh said Akpabio only repeated what the NDDC’s MD said, adding that those circulating the statement were driven by malice and hate.

    He added: “What I am trying to say is that whoever sent a text to you or sent a message to you, of course, it is intentioned by malice and hate.

    Read Also: Akpabio’s words twisted, he didn’t say ‘let them protest, we’ll dine’ – Eyiboh”

    “I am saying that it is the Managing Director of NDDC who made a statement. That statement, if you go to the NDDC website, you will see it.

    “Anywhere you go, we have also made efforts in popularising it so that we will know where the fact lies.

    “All the Senate President said and did was ‘thank you very much, Mr. MD, for making that statement’, and he went ahead to thank the Niger Delta people and said they should not go on protest but should own the government because the benefits of this government to Niger Delta is tremendous and enormous.”

  • Akpabio didn’t say ‘he would eat while Nigerian youths protest – Okolugbo

    Akpabio didn’t say ‘he would eat while Nigerian youths protest – Okolugbo

    Consultant Communications and Strategy office of the Senate President Sir Kenny Okolugbo has faulted media reports Senate President Godswill Akpabio said that “he would be eating while protesters are protesting”.

    In a statement, Okolugbo noted that Akpabio never said “he and others will be EATING while the protesters will be PROTESTING”.

    He described the report as uncharitable, saying that its motive was to bring Akpabio in conflict with the Nigerian masses. 

    Explaining further, Okolugbo stated: “He was only quoting the MD of the NDDC that said the Niger Delta Youths have never had it so good with himself and the Amnesty boss on the saddle that it was a government of the Youths who will not be interested in regime change rather will own the GOVERNMENT and will not protest but rather be eating. 

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    “The import of his visit was a declaration that the nine states of the Niger Delta will not be involved in any protest being the most senior government official from that region he feels their pain and that there is hunger in the land. This event was covered by a national television live.

    “Speaking at the NDDC sponsored youth stakeholders summit in Port harcourt today 30th July 2024 he reiterated that protest almost led to Anarchy in Kenya and the negative effects is still reverberating. He said while the degradation in the Niger Delta due to oil exploration and exploitation persist there have been no protest. 

    “The fact that the government is doing so much to address the situation at hand like the minimum wage bill, passing into law and signing by the President of the Northwest Development Commission, the Southeast Development Commission recently. 

    “He launched the immediate payment of 10,000.00 youths to earn instantly N50,000.00 per month, as a way of ameliorating the pains and hardship being experienced but like the pregnant woman that takes nine months to deliver the pains that would accompany the birth of the child is also unbearable. 

    “The people of the Niger Delta have been urged to exercise patience with the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu. That one year is not enough to judge the performance of the administration.

    “According to Kenny Okolugbo Consultant Communications and Strategy Office of the Senate President the youths where filled with so much joy and excitement and passed a voice vote of no protest and confidence on the Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The empowerment scheme is for those not gainfully employed and it was reiterated that it will be devoid of politics and strictly for the nine states of the Niger Delta all the local government areas and wards”.

  • Akpabio, youth leaders declare Niger Delta protest-free zone

    Akpabio, youth leaders declare Niger Delta protest-free zone

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio and youth leaders across the Niger Delta have declared the region a protest-free zone.

    Akpabio alao launched a Internship Scheme initiated by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for 10,000 youths of the Niger Delta region.

    Akpabio and the leaders spoke during the NDDC Executive Management Engagement with Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities and Selected Stakeholders in Port Harcourt.

    The Senate President declared that the proposed nationwide protests by some youths would not take place in the nine states of the Niger Delta.

    He gave details of the youth internship scheme, Akpabio said that the 10,000 youths would be engaged in the programme designed to improve their skills, noting that the beneficiaries in the first phase would be paid N50, 000 naira monthly.

    Akpabio insisted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was committed to the development of the Niger Delta region. 

    He noted that following a Presidential directive, the NDDC recently inaugurated five flagship projects covering roads, bridges and electricity, across the region.

    He commended the NDDC for restoring some damaged sections of the East-West Road and assured that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project would not only commence from Lagos but would also start simultaneously from the Niger Delta.

    Akpabio said that despite the challenges of developing the Niger Delta region, the NDDC had executed several projects that had improved the lives of the people, promising that henceforth, the Commission would be getting its full share of its statutory allocations.

    He said: “Give Tinubu a chance to deliver on his policies and some people ask how long and I tell them even if you have to take all the time it took you to get to this point. 

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    “Actions are being taken by the government to do everything possible to meet the needs of the people because we recognise the difficult times.

    “So, as the Senate president I want to appeal to all Nigerian Youths to give this administration an opportunity for most of the policies to mature. 

    “So the whispers of our nation is already receiving attention. The economic challenges are known to the president because all of us feel the impact of what is happening now. 

    “We acknowledged the fact that the impact of oil and gas activities in our region have done immeasurable damage to our community it reshaped our lives,  our economy and environment, so we must expedite actions to address those concomitant socio-economic issue that has arisen as a consequence. 

    “Be rest assured that the Tinubu administration will release the necessary funds for critical projects in the Niger Delta region.  I will ensure that the needs of our people and dreams are realised.”

    ANDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said that the people of the Niger Delta region had since transited from militant agitation to intellectual struggle, noting that the region was now reaping the benefits of the struggles.

    He described the empowerment initiatives as revolutionary saying it was designed to uplift the youth and women of the Niger Delta region.

    Ogbuku revealed that the federal government, under the leadership of President Tinubu,  approved the new scheme.

    “This unprecedented move demonstrates the government’s empathy and commitment to supporting the most vulnerable populations during economic challenges”, he said.

    The NDDC CEO emphasised that the initiative was a testament to the government’s human face and willingness to listen to the needs of its citizens.

    He said: “This landmark scheme has the potential to transform the lives of thousands of young people in the Niger Delta, providing them with a financial safety net and empowering them to build a brighter future.”

    The NDDC boss said that the Project HOPE had helped the Commission to develop a comprehensive digital repository, comprising important information about the youths of the Niger Delta region; including their qualifications, skills, interests, needs, and current employment status.

    Ogbuku said that the NDDC was working with the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce in the training of youths and young entrepreneurs in the Niger Delta region. 

    He explained that the Commission would collaborate with the Chamber of Commerce to support Small and Medium Enterprises in the region and ensure the sustainability of youth development programmes.


    He said: “We will also partner with the Bank of Industry to fund projects and support businesses and facilitate the success of our empowerment programmes. We will provide all the necessary support for youth entrepreneurship schemes.”

    Ogbuku urged Niger Deltans not to be lured into any protest that would destabilise the country, as such action was bound to hinder development and further impoverish the ordinary people.

    In his remarks, The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, has described President Bola Tinubu as a youth-friendly president.

    He urged the people of Niger Delta to own the administration of Tinubu because of his youth-friendliness and love for the region.

    According to him, the president’s favourable disposition was the reason he appointed him as the PAP Administrator and Samuel Ogbuku as the Managing Director of the NDDC, among others.

    Otuaro enjoined the people to be patient with Tinubu as he had initiated reforms under his Renewed Hope Agenda to revamp Nigeria’s economy and also fast-track development in the Niger Delta.

    He reiterated his call for the sustenance of peace and security in the Niger Delta and urged youths to shun the proposed national protests on August 1, saying they should not allow any group of persons to force them to go back to the old ways.

    Otuaro noted that the President was supporting the Programme tremendously to achieve its mandate for the region.

    He said in line with this, the PAP had designed a scheme to empower more than 1,000 youths that had been engaged this year.

    He stated that under the education policy of the programme, the Office would increase the number of scholarship beneficiaries to accommodate 500 Niger Delta students to study in universities.

    Otuaro also disclosed that the PAP prioritizes women in its stakeholders policy, adding that the Office would in the nearest future hold a women summit to interface with the region’s female folk.

    He commended the NDDC for organising the sensitization meeting, and pledged PAP’s readiness to partner with the interventionist agency.

    He said, “The government of President Bola Tinubu is a youth-friendly government, and he really loves the Niger Delta. I was at the NDDC before he appointed me to head the Presidential Amnesty Programme Office. And Samuel Ogbuku is the Managing Director of the NDDC.

    “Therefore, it is time for us to own the administration of Tinubu. Let us not join the protests. We need to be patient with him for his reforms to materialize. Nobody should make us to go back to the old ways. 

    “This year in the PAP, we have a programme to empower over 1000 of our youths. In education, we are going to expand scholarship to 500 beneficiaries of the PAP scholarship scheme.

    “For our women, they are our priority. We have had stakeholders meeting with ex-agitators, we are also going to hold another meeting involving women only. In that meeting, our women will articulate their issues. I will not impose anything on our women. The meeting will cut across the Niger Delta. We will partner with the NDDC, we already have the manpower.”

    In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, assured that the Commission would continue to focus on completing capital projects that would add value to the Niger Delta region. 

    He said: “Our commitment is to work towards transforming the region, in line with the 8-Point Presidential Priorities, as well as in accordance with the demands of the NDDC Act of 2000.”

    He thanked members of the National Assembly for expeditiously passing the 2024 budget of the Commission which would set the tone for the implementation of projects and programmes that would benefit the people of the Niger Delta region.

    He said: “We have given more opportunities and hope to Niger Delta youths through our Holistic Opportunity Projects of Engagement, HOPE, meant to identify interests of the youths for skills training.

    In his goodwill message, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, emphasised that it was only in unity and peace that progress could be achieved. 

    He lauded the Board and Management of the NDDC for working hands in gloves to develop the Niger Delta region.

    Speaking in the same vein, the National Chairman of PANDEF, Senator Emmanuel Ibok-Essien, acknowledged the numerous achievements of the NDDC and appealed to Niger Delta youths to disregard those calling for protests.

    The President of the Ijaw Youth Council, Ambassador Jonathan Lopkobiri, maintained that Niger Deltans had no business with those who were inciting youths to anarchy.

     He observed that demands of the protesters said nothing about the long-neglected East-West Road.

    He commended the NDDC for providing a temporary reprieve for the users of the road, which he noted was still being threatened by flooding.