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Tag: BUHARI

  • Emefiele: CBN board did not recommend naira redesign to Buhari, says ex-Deputy Gov

    Emefiele: CBN board did not recommend naira redesign to Buhari, says ex-Deputy Gov

    An ex-Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Kingsley Obiora has said there was no time the board of the bank recommended the 2022 nara redesign to then President Muhammadu Buhari.

    Obiora, who said he once served as a Special Adviser on Economic Matter to a former Governor of the CBN, Godwin Emefiele, disclosed that the CBN board first heard of the naira redesign policy on December 15, 2022.

    Obiora spoke in Abuja on Thursday while testifying as the fifth prosecution witness in Emefiele’s trial on a six-count charge in which he is among others, accused of unlawfully printing new naira notes.

    Led in evidence by lawyer to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), Obiora testified virtually via audio-visual means from his base abroad.

    He said: “To the best of my recollection, the first day this policy (naira redesign) was discussed at the board was mid December, 2022. I think it was around December 15, 2022.

    “The Governor (Emefiele) invited the Deputy Governor, Operations and Director, Currency Operations to present that same memo that the Committee of Governors (COG) saw in October. He also informed the board of the President’s approval.

    “I do not recollect any instance of the board making recommendation for Nairan redesign to the President. There was no meeting the board recommended Naira redesign,” he said.

    Earlier the witness said the defendant told the four CBN Deputy Governors about the naira redesign policy at an event in Lagos on October 25, 2022, adding that they advised him against announcing the policy at the event.

    “On 25th October, 2022, we were in Lagos to commemorate the first year anniversary of the digital currency, E-Naira. During the break between the first two sessions of the event, the governor (Emefiele) called the four deputy governors and informed us of plans to redesign the currency.

    “He was wondering if he was going to announce it that day at the event. My personal reaction was that the event may not be the appropriate place. 

    “That was the first time I became aware of the plan. Secondly, my comment was that we would need time to study the policy and make inputs.”

    He added Emefiele told the four Deputy Governors that the reason behind the secrecy of the redesign policy was to ensure its effective implementation.

    Obiora said on October 26, 2022, which was a Wednesday, the day of the  meeting of the CBN’s Committee of Governors (COGs), Emefiele asked the Deputy Governor in charge of operations, Mr Ade Shonubi, to circulate and present a memo for naira redesign, which he (Shonubi) did.

    “The deputy governor, Operations, presented the memo to the COGs and it was deliberated upon. During the discussion, the governor mentioned that he had already had the approval of the President for the policy.

    “After the COGs meeting, the governor and two deputy governors joined a press conference to announce the policy to the public. All this happened on 26th October, 2022,” Obiora said.

    Under cross-examination by Emefiele’s lawyer, Olalekan Ojo (SAN), Obiora confirmed that he had previously worked as technical adviser to former President Goodluck Jonathan. 

    He said at its December 15, 2022 meeting, the CBN board ratified the decision of the COG on Naira redesign policy, saying that, “this ratification is in respect of the redesigned Naira already in circulation.”

    The witness also said he was aware of instances of presidential approval for disbursement of funds to Chad, Niger Republic and the military, which the CBN complied with. 

    He added:  “Such (presidential) request would come to the governor. He would usually let the committee (COG) know and it would be implemented before the board get to know.”

    Obiora said when he was invited for l interrogation by EFCC, he was never shown any bdocument from President Buhari or any officials from the presidency complaining about the redesigned naira notes already in circulation.

    Read Also: Emefiele instructed me not to keep records of collected dollars, says witness

    He agreed with Ojo that one of the reasons for currency redesign is to combat currency trafficking and hoarding.

    At the conclusion of Obiora’s testimony, Oyedepo sought an adjornment, which Ojo did not oppose.

    Ojo however, prayed the court to vacate November 29 which it earlier set for the continuation of the trial.  

    The defence lawyer said the time will afford him the opportunity to attend to his health and to fully participate in his daughter’s wedding, scheduled for November 29.

    Oyedepo did not object, following which Justice Maryanne Anenih adjourned till December 4.

  • Buhari hails Gowon on 90th birthday

    Buhari hails Gowon on 90th birthday

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari has paid glowing tribute to General Yakubu Gowon, retired Military Head of State, as he marks his 90th birthday, praising his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s unity and progress.

    Describing General Gowon as a distinguished statesman and soldier with exceptional leadership qualities, Buhari acknowledged his invaluable contributions to Nigeria’s continued existence as a unified nation. 

    In a statement issued by his spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, the former President commended Gowon’s far-sighted leadership and commitment to the nation’s unity and future development, noting that his legacy will continue to inspire younger generations.

    “We honour his invaluable contributions to our nation’s continued existence as one, and the progress that has come with that.

    “Today we pay a humble tribute to a distinguished statesman and a soldier, who had all the qualities of a successful army commander”, he said. 

    Buhari also recognised Gowon’s remarkable achievements, including his role in leading the country through reconciliation, rehabilitation, and reconstruction after the civil war. 

    Read Also: Buhari mourns Mele Kyari’s daughter

    He said both old and the younger generations of Nigerians would continue to be proud of General Gowon and the officers and men he led for their courage and gallantry in preserving the unity and territorial integrity of the nation.

    “I pay homage to all those who served and laid their lives for the country. Gowon and the team he led will continue to inspire the young generations and the country for a long time”, he said. 

    The former President expressed his deep appreciation for Gowon’s ongoing service to the nation, particularly through his pet project, “Nigeria Prays.” 

  • Buhari congratulates APC’s Okpebholo on ‘historic win’ in Edo

    Buhari congratulates APC’s Okpebholo on ‘historic win’ in Edo

    …urges unity

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated the All Progressives Congress (APC) and governor-elect Senator Monday Okpebholo on their historic victory in the Edo state governorship election.

    In a statement issued by his spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, Buhari described the win as “prized” and “historic,” offering his warmest wishes for a new lease of life for Edo State and its people.

    The former president expressed hope that both the incoming administration and the opposition would work together to strengthen democracy and maintain the state’s development trajectory.

    Buhari commended law enforcement agencies for ensuring a peaceful election and praised election officials for their efforts to improve the electoral process.

    Read Also; INEC declares APC’s Okpebholo winner of Edo governorship election

    He also prayed for Nigeria’s continued progress under democracy, noting the country’s status as the continent’s most populous nation.

    “Congratulations to the APC and the election winner, Senator Monday Okpebholo on the historic electoral victory and my warmest wishes for a new lease of life for Edo State and its people.

    “I very much hope the winners and the losers would work together to strengthen democracy and maintain the trajectory of development in the state.

    “I commend law enforcement agencies for the efforts that they put in ensuring a peaceful election and the multitude of election officials who strive to improve their act with each election.

    “I pray that Nigeria, the continent’s most populous country, will continue to achieve remarkable progress under democracy”, he said.

  • Buhari condoles Jega on mother’s death

    Buhari condoles Jega on mother’s death

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed condolences to former chairman of the National Electoral Commission (INEC) Professor Mahmud Jega over the death of his mother, Hajiya Hauwa Kulu Muhammadu Jega, after a brief illness in Abuja.

    According to a statement by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, the former president said there is no greater loss than that of a mother.

    “I would like to express my deepest condolences for the passing of your beloved mother. May her soul rest in peace.

    “Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope that you will find solace and comfort in the good deeds she left behind. May All grant her Aljannul Firdaus,” Buhari said.

  • Buhari house, Emir’s palace not touched by protesters in Daura, says Emir’s spokesman

    Buhari house, Emir’s palace not touched by protesters in Daura, says Emir’s spokesman

    Usman Ibrahim Yaro, the spokesman for the Emir of Daura and known as “Sarkin Labarai Daura,” has refuted media reports that protesters targeted both President Buhari’s house and the Emir’s palace in Daura during the August 1, demonstrations.

    In an interview with The Nation in Katsina, Yaro clarified that the protesters did not approach either residence but were simply passing by.

    He added that while the protesters did destroy signboards in front of houses belonging to politicians in Daura, they did not touch those in front of Buhari’s and the Emir’s residences.

    He said: ’’The protesters never touched Buhari and Emir’s houses, so the news reports and viral videos were fake’’

    ‘’No violent protests in Daura, people mostly engaged in weddings during the lockdowns and curfew periods from 10am to 4pm,each day.’’

    Read Also: Middle East turmoil and Nigeria

    In a related development, Traders In Katsina have decried the continued closure of banks and other financial houses in the state, a situation they said have grossly undermined economic activities in the state

    Findings by The Nation also revealed that small-scale business owners in Katsina state were also experiencing low patronages as a result of the nationwide protests.

    A petty trader at the Katsina Hajj Camp Roundabout in Katsina during the day 1 of the protests, 46-year-old Adamu Musa, told The Nation that the business is not moving smoothly due to low patronage and none opening of the banks, compared to other days before the protest.

    He further stated he has spent over a decade running fruit businesses in the area and urged governments to support the small-scale businesses with enough capital to address inflation and economic hardship facing the country.

    He said: “Even if you purchase commodities, customers don’t come to buy due to high price after you might have exhausted all your money in purchasing the commodities, and before you know it, you will spend the whole capital you have accumulated.”

  • Buhari hails Olufunmilayo, Boss Mustapha’s wife at 60

    Buhari hails Olufunmilayo, Boss Mustapha’s wife at 60

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari has sent warm birthday greetings to Olufunmilayo Mustapha, wife of the immediate past Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, as she clocks 60 years and retires as a director in the Federal Civil Service.

    Buhari described her as a strong pillar of strength for her husband, Mustapha, “who is a friend committed to building the future and proud history of our great nation”.

    Read Also: Buhari hails Olufunmilayo, Boss Mustapha’s wife, at 60

    In a statement by his spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, Buhari said: “With Olufunmilayo and the rest of the family on his side, Boss Mustapha had all the support he needed in playing a crucial role in ensuring the success of our administration.”

    He commended the contribution of the former SGF’s wife to the country’s public service, from which she retires today as a substantive director, saying that without the contribution of the civil service, the numerous achievements of the administration were just not possible.

    “Civil servants like Olufunmilayo Mustapha will continue to inspire generations to come,” he said.

  • Buhari hails Olufunmilayo, Boss Mustapha’s wife, at 60

    Buhari hails Olufunmilayo, Boss Mustapha’s wife, at 60

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari has sent warm birthday greetings to Olufunmilayo Mustapha, wife of the immediate past Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, as she clocks 60 years and retires as a director in the Federal Civil Service.

    Buhari described her as strong pillar of strength for her husband, Mustapha, “who is a friend committed to building the future and proud history of our great nation”.

    In a statement by his spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, Buhari said: “With Olufunmilayo and the rest of the family on his side, Boss Mustapha had all the support he needed in playing a crucial role in ensuring the success of our administration.”

    Read Also: Tinubu, Buhari, Southern governors, others mourn exit of Igbo leader

    He commended the contribution of the former SGF’s wife to the country’s public service, from which she retires today as a substantive director, saying that without the contribution of the civil service, the numerous achievements of the administration were just not possible.

    “Civil servants like Olufunmilayo Mustapha will continue to inspire generations to come,” he said. 

    He wished her continued good health and success in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of her family and the nation.

  • Buhari condoles with Na’Allah over wife’s passing

    Buhari condoles with Na’Allah over wife’s passing

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari has extended his condolences to Senator Bala Ibn Na’Allah on the passing of his wife, Safiya Na’Allah.

    In a telephone call to the Senator on Wednesday, Buhari expressed his sadness over the loss, describing the deceased as a strong family pillar and a dependable partner to her husband.

    In a statement issued by his spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, the former President acknowledged that Safiya’s demise has left a void that cannot be filled, praising her as a devoted wife who embodied the best qualities of a life partner.

    Read Also: Buhari condoles with Na’Allah over wife’s passing

    The former president prayed to Allah to accept Safiya’s good deeds and grant the Na’Allah family the strength to bear their loss.

    “Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed his condolence to Senator Bala Ibn Na’Allah on the death of his wife, Safiya Na’Allah.

    “In a telephone call to Bala Na’Allah on Wednesday, the former president expressed his sadness over the demise of the deceased, saying that the Na’Allah family had lost a strong family pillar and the Senator, a dependable partner.

    “Muhammadu Buhari said the late Safiya had been everything a wife could be to her husband, leaving a void that is impossible to fill. He prayed to Allah to accept her good deeds”, the statement said.

  • Buhari pays tribute to Modu sheriff’s mother, Hajiya Asia

    Buhari pays tribute to Modu sheriff’s mother, Hajiya Asia

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari has paid tribute to Hajiya Aisa, the mother of former Borno State Governor, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, who passed away at the age of 93.

    In a statement issued by his spokesman, Mallam Garba Shehu, Buhari praised the late matriarch for her profound influence on her children’s character and success, describing her life as “glorious”.

    The former President offered his condolences to Senator Sheriff and the Sherif family, saying “There is no greater loss than losing one’s mother. My condolences to Senator Ali Sherif and the larger Sherif family on the passing away of their mother. May Allah accept her good deeds.”

    Read Also: Security situation better now than in Buhari’s administration – Shehu Sani

    He also extended his condolences to Governor Babagana Zulum, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin Elkanemi, and the people of the state.

    The former President dispatched a team led by two of his former ministers, Mustapha Baba Shehuri and Engineer Abubakar Aliyu, and a former presidential aide, Garba Shehu to represent him at the third day prayers on Wednesday.

    The late Hajiya Aisa was buried in Maiduguri, her hometown.

  • Security situation better now than in Buhari’s administration – Shehu Sani

    Security situation better now than in Buhari’s administration – Shehu Sani

    Former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, has said that the security situation in Nigeria is better now than it was during the Buhari administration while bemoaning the way banditry and terrorism have degraded the education sector in northern Nigeria.

    The former lawmaker stated this at the Ahmadu Bahago Secondary School, Minna over the weekend during the 40th anniversary of the 1984 set of the Government Science College, Kagara.

    “The security challenges will be over very soon across the whole country because it is better than the one we had during Buhari’s administration. There is every evidence that many of the top terrorists have been eliminated and if you compare what we have today to what we had yesterday, it is still the best.

    “Under Buhari, you have had attacks in schools, like the Greenfield University, Betel Baptist School, Government Science College, Kagara, Government Science Girls College Yauri, Federal School of Agriculture Mechanization, Mando, Government Secondary School Kangara, and others. We have had attacks on schools all over the country during the Buhari’s administration, so we are hopeful that things would be better in this administration”, he said while fielding questions from Journalists.

    The former senator, while lamenting the continuous closure of the Government Science College, Kagara after the abduction of the students, lamented that terrorism and banditry are pushing the north behind the more as these nefarious activities have destroyed the educational fabrics and basics of northern Nigeria.

    “Northern Nigeria must take education seriously. We are behind in education, we have the highest number of out-of-school children and today, the activities of bandits and terrorism have destroyed the educational fabrics and basics of northern Nigeria.

    “The schools we call our own have been deserted because bandits have once attacked the schools and took hostages. This was the school that produced many prominent people and the best in the history of Nigeria.”

    Sani further blamed the current decaying state of public education across the country for the failure of leaders who could not maintain the legacies that the fathers of the nation left behind.

    “Secondary education used to be fun unfortunately the schools we attend today are schools where we cannot take our children. From the President to Governors to Senators to Ministers in this country, they were all products of public education and before our eyes, public education has been destroyed.

    “Secondary school is one of the most important phases in the history of every person. It is a place where the future was planted and it is a place where the character of a student was shaped. We were the product of public education, public education in Nigeria used to be the best of education. In our days, we had lecturers from other countries. Government Science College Kagara produced some of the best in the history of this state and the history of Nigeria. Unfortunately, the schools that produce some of the best in the history of this country are today in ruins of what they used to be.

    Read Also: Otti awards scholarship to children of police officers killed in Aba

    “We must tell ourselves the truth, that as long as we don’t provide education for our young ones, we will be creating a force that we would be unable to control in the future. Secondary education used to be fun unfortunately the schools we attend today are schools we cannot take our children to. From the President to governors to senators to Ministers in this country, they were all products of Public education and before our eyes, public education has been destroyed.

    “Our fathers left for us the legacy of education but as years go by, it decayed. Our leaders could not leave behind for this generation what they inherited from our fathers. The current dismal state of education across the country has shown us the failure of Nigerian leaders. We had the best of education but now, our public schools cannot boast of giving the best to the children of this generation.”

    Sani said that he and other alumni are working to see to the reopening of the school once the security situation has improved greatly, saying he is in talks with the state governor, Mohammed Umar Bago,

    “We will not just celebrate the 40th anniversary with what you have seen here but we will give back to the school and we will ensure that the school is returned to its lost glory”, he assured.

    Other alumni of the Government Science College, Kagara also echoed the disappointment and dismay of the Generator over the state of the school pointing out that the current status of the school is not pleasing to speak about.

    The Chairman of the Government Science College, Kagara Old Boys Association, Jafar Tukur, said that there are currently no students in the school as it has remained shut down and is now being occupied by the military adding that the school is now a haven of pests and termites.

    “Most of the structures have no roofs, the infrastructures have decayed and it is not a good sight to behold. This is the school that was the first beneficiary of science education in northern Nigeria. We are not happy about the current state”, he stated.