The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Gbajabiamila

  • Gbajabiamila, senators, others storm Ijebu-Ode as Awujale installs Odulaja as Lapo-Ekun 

    Gbajabiamila, senators, others storm Ijebu-Ode as Awujale installs Odulaja as Lapo-Ekun 

    The ancient city of Ijebu Ode was practically locked down at the weekend as people from across the globe stormed the city for the installation of Tunde Odulaja as the Lapo-Ekun of Ijebu Ode. 

    Agog with excitement and pageantry, the indigenes, residents and visitors watched with admiration as the highly revered monarch, the Awujale of Ijebu land, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, CFR, conferred the prestigious title of Lapo Ekun on Odulaja. 

    Admonishing the newly decorated high chief to be a good community leader and show exemplary leadership, the monarch reminded Odulaja of his responsibilities to the town and the people. 

    Kabiyesi Adetona also offered traditional prayers of good health and long life for the new community leader while reminding him of the need to be above aboard, being one of the 13 lawmakers that will pick the next Awujale. 

    Odulaja had earlier taken his oath of office and an oath of allegiance to the palace to kickstart the ceremony. 

    Dignitaries that graced the occasion included the Ogun State Government functionaries led by Governor Dapo Abiodun and his wife, Bamidele. 

    The Secretary to the State Government,  Tokunbo Talabi and  the state Commissioner for Finance, Dapo Okubadejo, were on ground to support the governor. 

    Also around to witness the event, is the Chief of Staff to the President, Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila and a member of the House of Representatives, Ademorin Kuye, who  was also honoured with a Chieftaincy title as Otunba Ajana. 

    Read Also: Tinubu directs NDDC to fix Warri-Benin sections of East West road 

    Others include Senator Gbenga Daniel, Senator Olorunibe Mamora, Otunba Seyi Oduntan, Otunba Lekan Bello and the Chairman of Ijebu Ode Local Government, Emilola Gazzal, among other notable personalities. 

  • Gbajabiamila still best for Tinubu’s administration – Group

    Gbajabiamila still best for Tinubu’s administration – Group

    The Arewa Citizens for Change and Renewed Hope has given a resounding endorsement to Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, describing him as an exemplary leader who embodies dedication and excellence.

    In a statement by its President, Alhaji Ibrahim Turakin, the group praised Gbajabiamila’s exceptional leadership skills, which according to them foster unity and purpose, essential for national progress.

    Turakin hailed his ability to navigate complex policy landscapes to ensure effective implementation and impactful outcomes.

    According to him, Gbajabiamila excels as a rallying point for excellence between the executive and parliament, appointees and elected officials, and the older generation and youth.

    Turakin said his experience as a former Speaker of the House of Representatives and one of the country’s best legislators ever coupled with his wisdom to balance competing interests has created a brighter future for all Nigerians.

    He further praised Gbajabiamila’s impact on the Presidency and masses as profound, streamlining processes, enhancing efficiency, and attracting investments to stimulate development.

    Alhaji Turakin added that Gbajabiamila drives progress, unity, and development, making him an invaluable asset to President Tinubu’s team.

    “As Nigeria prepares to celebrate its independence, we reflect on the exceptional leadership that has defined our nation’s progress. Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, exemplifies dedication and excellence,” he said. 

    “Gbajabiamila’s remarkable journey in public service spans over two decades, with six consecutive terms in the House of Representatives. His passion for Nigeria’s growth and development has earned him a reputation as a brilliant legislator and visionary leader.

    “As Speaker of the House of Representatives, he demonstrated unwavering commitment to the nation’s well-being. Gbajabiamila seamlessly bridges the gap between the presidency, his staff, and the masses.

    “His exceptional leadership skills foster unity and purpose, essential for national progress. With strategic vision and expertise, he navigates complex policy landscapes, ensuring effective implementation and impactful outcomes.

    “As a rallying point for excellence, Gbajabiamila excels between the executive and parliament, appointees and elected officials, and the older generation and youth. His experience and wisdom balance competing interests, creating a brighter future for all Nigerians.

    “In his role, Gbajabiamila has demonstrated exceptional leadership, fostering unity and purpose among the president’s staff and the broader administration. His door is always open, listening to diverse perspectives and finding common ground.

    Read Also: Group lauds presidency over tour of agencies, hails Gbajabiamila

    “As the engine room of this administration, Gbajabiamila drives progress, unity, and development, making him an invaluable asset to President Tinubu’s team. Gbajabiamila’s impact on the Presidency and the masses is profound.

    “He streamlines processes, enhances efficiency, and attracts investments, stimulating development. His experience has helped navigate complex policy landscapes, ensuring effective implementation and impactful outcomes. Gbajabiamila’s selfless dedication to Nigeria is a beacon of hope.”

    Turakin concluded that Gbajabiamila embodies the spirit of excellence that Nigeria needs and should be supported to continue to help President Tinubu achieve his Renewed Hope Agenda.

  • Group lauds presidency over tour of agencies, hails Gbajabiamila

    Group lauds presidency over tour of agencies, hails Gbajabiamila

    The Initiative for Credible and Transparency in Governance (ICTG) has praised the Presidency for taking proactive steps to ensure optimal performance in agencies directly under its purview.

    In a statement signed by Dr. Ochonu Ochonu, the group said the recent visit and tour of critical agencies by the President’s Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila demonstrates a commitment to productivity and accountability.

    The agencies so far visited include the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).

    Others are the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the National Hajj Commission (NAHCON).

    According to Ochonu, this initiative will boost performance, enhance service delivery, and promote a culture of accountability.

    Read Also: FG steps up health facility regulatory formation process

    “We salute the Presidency for taking proactive steps to ensure agencies under its purview perform optimally. The recent visit and tour of critical agencies by the President’s Chief of Staff demonstrates a commitment to productivity and accountability,” the statement said.

    “Routine assessment tours like this are crucial in identifying areas of improvement, addressing operational challenges, and ensuring effective management structures are in place. They also promote a culture of accountability and encourage agencies to strive for excellence.

    “By conducting on-site assessments, the Presidency can make informed decisions, allocate resources efficiently, and provide necessary support to agencies. This approach will undoubtedly boost performance and enhance service delivery.

    “We commend Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila for his leadership and initiative in undertaking these tours. His hands-on approach and engagement with agency officials demonstrate a genuine interest in their work and challenges.

    “Gbajabiamila’s efforts will undoubtedly yield positive results, including improved performance, enhanced transparency, and increased accountability. His commitment to good governance and effective leadership is a testament to the Presidency’s dedication to excellence.”

    The ICTG encouraged the Presidency to consider the findings from these tours in resource allocation, policy formulation, and decision-making processes.

    The group also called on other arms of government and stakeholders to emulate this initiative, promoting transparency and accountability across all sectors.

    With sustained efforts, the ICTG looks forward to seeing positive impacts on citizens’ lives and offers its support and expertise to the Presidency in ensuring effective implementation of recommendations.

    “We commend the agencies for their cooperation and openness during the tours, demonstrating their willingness to embrace transparency and accountability,” Ochonu added. 

    “We call on other arms of government and stakeholders to emulate this initiative, promoting a culture of accountability and productivity across all sectors. Sustained efforts like these will significantly contribute to Nigeria’s development, and we look forward to seeing the positive impacts on the lives of citizens.

    “The ICTG offers its support and expertise to the Presidency in ensuring the effective implementation of recommendations from these tours and promoting good governance in Nigeria.”

  • 2025 budget to focus on essential projects, says Gbajabiamila

    2025 budget to focus on essential projects, says Gbajabiamila

    • Govt eyes agriculture to diversify economy

    The Federal Government has announced plans to allocate funds in the 2025 budget based on a thorough needs assessment, prioritizing essential projects and agencies and to ensure that funding allocated to agencies are based on actual requirements.

    Chief of Staff to the President, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, disclosed this while speaking to reporters after a one-day fact-finding tour of government agencies under the State House, emphasising the need for prioritization, given the limited resources available.

    Gbajabiamila questioned the current funding and performance of various agencies, considering their mandates and relevance to the administration’s vision and the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He hinted at the possibility of merging or scrapping underperforming agencies to optimize resources.

    ‘’In any country in the world, resources are limited. For us it is about prioritizing. Where are we so far? What have the agencies done? How have they measured up to their mandates and how important are their mandates in terms of the vision of this administration and the Renewed Hope Agenda?

    ‘’A lot of agencies are not properly funded. Do we merge some of these agencies, do we scrap some? I’m not talking about the State House agencies.

    ‘’In 2025 we are not going to budget in a vacuum. We will budget based on needs assessment,’’ he said.

    Earlier, in separate interactions with heads and staff of the agencies, Gbajabiamila said the Presidency would ensure better welfare and working conditions of staff within the agencies under the supervision of the State House.

    He urged the workers to embrace innovation, excellence, and professionalism, while supporting their Chief Executives to succeed.

    Read Also: FG’ll continue to focus on food security – Gbajabiamila

    Accompanied by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Sen. Ibrahim Hadeija, the Permanent Secretary, State House, Engr. Olufunso Adebiyi, and the Senior Special Assistant to the President, Administration and Operations (Office of the Chief of Staff), Mrs Oyinade Nathan-Marsh, Gbajabiamila also emphasized the importance of transparency in the procurement process, which is critical to upholding the administration’s commitment to good governance and accountability.

    He visited the Nigeria Agriculture and Land Development Agency (NALDA), Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC), and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).

    During the tour, Gbajabiamila underscored the importance of these agencies in driving the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the economic and development sectors, and reiterated the administration’s resolve to strengthen these institutions.

    He noted that the visit, the first of its kind under this administration, was a follow-up to the recent one-day retreat for the Heads of State House Agencies.

    The retreat was convened to reinforce the administration’s commitment to strengthening institutions, ensuring they are well-equipped to fulfill their mandates and reducing the cost of governance.

    Assuring the agencies that their concerns on staff remuneration, inadequate office accommodation and other legitimate challenges would be addressed, Gbajabiamila said measures would be put in place to create a more conducive work environment.

    Engaging the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of NALDA, Engr. Cornelius Adebayo, in an interactive session, Gbajabiamila reaffirmed Federal Government’s commitment to diversifying the economy through the agriculture sector, emphasizing its crucial role in achieving food security.

    He stressed the administration’s serious focus on agriculture and food security, trusting NALDA to continue innovating through initiatives like greenhouse development and expanding arable land cultivation nationwide.

    ‘’This government is particular about diversifying our economy and the role the agriculture sector has to play is very important.

    ‘’This government is focusing very seriously on agriculture and food security and we trust that NALDA will continue to be innovative in its operations, including developing greenhouses and supporting the cultivation of more arable land across the country, ‘’ he added.

    At BPP, the Chief of Staff, while responding to a presentation by the acting Director-General, Olusegun Omotola, commended the agency for saving the government some N1.7 trillion from 2009-2022 by blocking loopholes that would have been exploited during procurement.

    He disclosed that the government has initiated a review of the BPP Act to align it with international best practices, reduce corruption, and streamline bureaucratic processes.

    Gbajabiamila also pledged government’s readiness to address staff remuneration, which has not seen a review in years, drawing comparisons with the Debt Management Office, which has undergone multiple salary structure reviews.

    ‘’The Act establishing the Bureau is going through a review process that will make it meet international best practices, reduce corruption, red tape and bureaucracy.

    ‘’We will also look at the staff remuneration and why there has not been a review over the years, especially when compared with sister agencies like Debt Management Office whose remuneration and salary structure has been reviewed a couple of times over the years,’’ the Chief of Staff said in response to a request by BPP’s acting DG.

    On the National Council on Procurement (NCP), which is an establishment of the law but has never been inaugurated since the creation of the Bureau, the Chief of Staff hinted that President Tinubu intends to inaugurate the Council, conscious of the need for the proposed amendments to the BPP Act.

    Addressing the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Gbajabiamila commended the agency for remitting over N1trillion proceeds to the Federal Government since 1999 and emphasized the need for improvement.

    ‘’We are ready to work with you to make you achieve your mandate optimally,’’ he assured.

    BPE’s Director-General, Ayodeji Gbeleyi, said the agency had received N93.4billionn from privatization projects in the first and second quarter of 2024, though this fell short of the revised expected revenue of  N259.7 billion.

    At NAEC, Gbajabiamila reaffirmed government’s commitment to developing nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, including electricity generation in the country.

    Responding to a presentation by Prof. Yusuf Ahmed, the Chairman of NAEC, Gbajabiamila said government recognizes the importance of incorporating nuclear technology into Nigeria’s energy mix to meet the nation’s growing energy needs.

    At NASENI, Gbajabiamila commended the agency for championing local content development, particularly in the areas of electric vehicles, motorbikes and solar-powered smart irrigation systems, through accelerated technology transfer.

    He expressed President Bola Tinubu’s confidence in the nation’s human resources and their ability to lead technological advancement.

    ‘’I’m very impressed with what we have seen and what we have heard,’’ the Chief of Staff said after a tour of facility at NASENI.

    ‘’The fact that you have 35 market ready products and have completed 44 tangible project and initiatives in 10 months speaks volumes to your commitment, dedication and passion for what you are doing.

    ‘’I commend you and the rest of the team on what you are doing. We live in a world of modern-day technology and Nigeria must not be left behind and we need agencies like NASENI to propagate the President’s vision on advancement in technology,’’ he told the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NASENI, Mr Khalil Suleiman Halilu.

    On staff welfare, he said creating an enabling work environment is very important to boosting staff morale and productivity.

    He noted that due to NASENI’s location at the Idu industrial layout, Abuja, approximately 30 kilometers from the city center, the management should provide adequate support to ease transportation costs for employees.

    In his remarks, Halilu thanked President Tinubu for his unflinching support to the agency.

    He reiterated the agency’s commitment to conducting research and development, as well as the production and commercialization of products that contributes directly to Nigeria’s GDP and improve the lives of the people.

  • FG’ll continue to focus on food security – Gbajabiamila

    FG’ll continue to focus on food security – Gbajabiamila

    Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, says the Federal Government is particular about diversifying the economy through massive investments in agriculture.

    Gbajabiamila said this during an interactive session with Mr Cornelius Adebayo, Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Agriculture and Land Development Agency (NALDA), on Wednesday.

    The Chief of Staff to the President had visited NALDA as part of a tour of agencies under the supervision of the State House on Wednesday.

    He said the government was focusing on agriculture and food security and hoped that NALDA would continue to be innovative in its operations, including developing greenhouses and supporting the cultivation of more arable land across the country.

    At BPP, while responding to a presentation by the acting Director-General, Olusegun Omotola, Gbajabiamila commended the agency for saving the Federal Government N1.7 trillion from 2009-2022 by blocking loopholes that would have been exploited during procurement. 

    “The Act establishing the Bureau is going through a review process that will make it meet international best practices, reduce corruption, red tape and bureaucracy. 

    “We will also look at the staff renumeration, especially when compared with sister agencies like Debt Management Office whose renumeration and salary structure has been reviewed a couple of times over the years,” said Gbajabiamila.

    Gbajabiamila hinted that President Bola Tinubu intended to inaugurate the National Council on Procurement (NCP), which is an establishment of the law. 

    The Council had never been inaugurated since the creation of the Bureau, saying that the President is conscious of the need for the proposed amendments to the BPP Act.

    Gbajabiamila commended the Bureau of Public Enterprises for remitting over N1 trillion proceeds to the Federal Government since 1999 and emphasised the need for improvement. 

    “We are ready to work with you to make you achieve your mandate optimally,” he assured. 

    BPE’s Director-General, Ayodeji Gbeleyi, disclosed that the agency had received N93.4bn from privatisation projects in the first and second quarter of 2024.

    He, however, said this fell short of the revised expected revenue of  N259.7 billion. 

    At the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC), the Chief of Staff to the President reaffirmed government’s commitment to developing nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, including electricity generation in the country. 

    Gbajabiamila said government  recognised the importance of incorporating nuclear technology into Nigeria’s energy mix to meet the nation’s growing energy needs.  

    Gbajabiamila underscored the importance of these agencies in driving the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the economic and development sectors.

    He reiterated the administration’s resolve to strengthen these institutions. 

    He noted that the visit, the first of its kind under this administration, was a follow-up to the recent one-day retreat for the Heads of State House Agencies. 

    The retreat was convened to reinforce the administration’s commitment to strengthening institutions, ensuring they are well-equipped to fulfill their mandates and reducing the cost of governance.

    He reassured the agencies that their concerns on staff renumeration, inadequate office accommodation and other legitimate challenges would be addressed.

    He also said measures would be put in place to create a more conducive work environment. 

    Gbajabiamila was accompanied by Sen. Ibrahim Hadeija, Deputy Chief of Staff, Engr. Olufunso Adebiyi, Permanent Secretary, State House, and Mrs Oyinade Nathan-Marsh, Senior Special Assistant to the President, Administration and Operations (Office of the Chief of Staff).

    Gbajabiamila visited NALDA, BPP, BPE, NAEC, and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).

    (NAN)

  • 2025 budget will be based on needs assessment, says Gbajabiamila

    2025 budget will be based on needs assessment, says Gbajabiamila

    The Federal Government has announced plans to allocate funds in the 2025 budget based on a thorough needs assessment, prioritising essential projects and agencies. 

    It said It will ensure that funding allocated to agencies are based on actual requirements.

    Chief of Staff to the President, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, disclosed this while speaking to journalists after a one-day fact-finding tour of government agencies under the State House, emphasising the need for prioritisation given the limited resources available.

    Gbajabiamila questioned the current funding and performance of various agencies, considering their mandates and relevance to the administration’s vision and the Renewed Hope Agenda. 

    He hinted at the possibility of merging or scrapping underperforming agencies to optimize resources.

    ”In any country in the world, resources are limited. For us it is about prioritizing. Where are we so far? What have the agencies done? How have they measured up to their mandates and how important are their mandates in terms of the vision of this administration and the Renewed Hope Agenda?

    ”A lot of agencies are not properly funded. Do we merge some of these agencies, do we scrap some? I’m not talking about the State House agencies. 

    ”In 2025 we are not going to budget in a vacuum. We will  budget based on needs assessment,” he said. 

    In separate interactions with Heads and staff of the agencies, the Chief of Staff pledged that the Presidency would ensure better welfare and working conditions of staff within the agencies under the supervision of the State House.

    He urged the staff of these agencies to embrace innovation, excellence, and professionalism, while supporting their Chief Executives to succeed. 

    Accompanied by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Sen. Ibrahim Hadeija, the Permanent Secretary, State House, Engr. Olufunso Adebiyi, and the Senior Special Assistant to the President, Administration and Operations (Office of the Chief of Staff), Mrs Oyinade Nathan-Marsh, Gbajabiamila also emphasised the importance of transparency in the procurement process, which is critical to upholding the administration’s commitment to good governance and accountability.

    The Chief of Staff visited the Nigeria Agriculture and Land Development Agency (NALDA), Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC), and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI).

    During the tour, Gbajabiamila underscored the importance of these agencies in driving the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the economic and development sectors, and reiterated the administration’s resolve to strengthen these institutions. 

    He noted that the visit, the first of its kind under this administration, was a follow-up to the recent one-day retreat for the Heads of State House Agencies. 

    The retreat was convened to reinforce the administration’s commitment to strengthening institutions, ensuring they are well-equipped to fulfill their mandates and reducing the cost of governance.

    Assuring the agencies that their concerns on staff renumeration, inadequate office accommodation and other legitimate challenges would be addressed, Gbajabiamila said measures would be put in place to create a more conducive work environment. 

    Engaging the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of NALDA, Engr. Cornelius Adebayo, in an interactive session, Gbajabiamila reaffirmed federal government’s commitment to diversifying the economy through the agriculture sector, emphasizing its crucial role in achieving food security.

    He stressed the administration’s serious focus on agriculture and food security, trusting NALDA to continue innovating through initiatives like greenhouse development and expanding arable land cultivation nationwide.

    ”This government is particular about diversifying our economy and the role the agriculture sector has to play is very important. 

    ”This government is focusing very seriously on agriculture and food security and we trust that NALDA will continue to be innovative in its operations, including developing greenhouses and supporting the cultivation of more arable land across the country ” he added. 

    At BPP, the Chief of Staff, while responding to a presentation by the acting Director-General, Olusegun Omotola, commended the agency for saving the federal government some N1.7 trillion from 2009-2022 by blocking loopholes that would have been exploited during procurement. 

    He disclosed that the federal government has initiated a review of the BPP Act to align it with international best practices, reduce corruption, and streamline bureaucratic processes.

    Gbajabiamila also pledged government’s readiness to address staff remuneration, which has not seen a review in years, drawing comparisons with the Debt Management Office, which has undergone multiple salary structure reviews. 

    ”The Act establishing the Bureau is going through a review process that will make it meet international best practices, reduce corruption, red tape and bureaucracy. 

    ”We will also look at the staff renumeration and why there has not been a review over the years, especially when compared with sister agencies like Debt Management Office whose renumeration and salary structure has been reviewed a couple of times over the years,” the Chief of Staff said in response to a request by BPP’s acting DG.

    On the National Council on Procurement (NCP), which is an establishment of the law but has never been inaugurated since the creation of the Bureau, the Chief of Staff hinted that President Tinubu intends to inaugurate the Council, conscious of the need for the proposed amendments to the BPP Act.

    Addressing the Bureau of Public Enterprises, Gbajabiamila commended the agency for remitting over N1trillion proceeds to the Federal government since 1999 and emphasized the need for improvement. 

    ”We are ready to work with you to make you achieve your mandate optimally,” he assured. 

    BPE’s Director-General, Ayodeji Gbeleyi, disclosed  that the agency had received N93.4bn from privatization projects in the first and second quarter of 2024, though this fell short of the revised expected revenue of  N259.7 billion. 

    At NAEC, the Chief of Staff to the President reaffirmed government’s commitment to developing nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, including electricity generation in the country. 

    Responding to a presentation by Prof. Yusuf Ahmed, the Chairman of NAEC, Gbajabiamila said government  recognizes the importance of incorporating  nuclear technology into Nigeria’s energy mix to meet the nation’s growing energy needs.  

    At NASENI, Gbajabiamila commended the agency for championing local content development, particularly in the areas  of electric vehicles, motorbikes and  solar-powered smart irrigation systems, through accelerated technology transfer. 

    He expressed President Bola Tinubu’s confidence in the nation’s human resources and their ability to lead  technological advancement. 

    ”I’m very impressed with what we have seen and what we have heard,” the Chief of Staff said after a tour of facility at NASENI. 

    ”The fact that you have 35 market ready products and have completed 44 tangible project and initiatives in 10 months speaks volumes to your commitment, dedication and passion for what you are doing. 

    ”I commend you and the rest of the team on what you are doing. We live in a world of modern-day technology and Nigeria must not be left behind and we need agencies like NASENI to propagate the President’s vision on advancement in technology,” he told the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NASENI, Mr Khalil Suleiman Halilu. 

    On staff welfare, the Chief of Staff noted that creating an enabling work environment is very important to boosting staff morale and productivity. 

    He noted that due to NASENI’s location at the Idu industrial layout, Abuja, approximately 30 kilometers from the city center, the management should provide adequate support to ease transportation costs for employees.

    In his remarks, Halilu thanked President Tinubu for his unflinching support to the agency. 

    He reiterated the agency’s commitment to conducting research and development, as well as the production and commercialization of products that contributes directly to Nigeria’s GDP and improve the lives of the people. 

  • Umahi felicitates Gbajabiamila at 62

    Umahi felicitates Gbajabiamila at 62

    Minister of Works David Umahi has congratulated President Bola Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, on his 62nd birthday.

    Umahi praised Gbajabiamila for his manifest leadership skills and proven track record of performance.

    He highlighted Gbajabiamila’s significant contributions as a lawyer, legislator, and technocrat, ‘whose insightful roles in President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope administration are inspiring many Nigerians’.

    “I feel delighted to convey the warmth of my felicitations to Femi Gbajabiamila on this auspicious moment of his 62nd birthday.

    Read Also: Ben Ayade lying low

    “I thank God for the accomplishments of your age. A man with manifest leadership dexterity and proven track records of performance, you have traversed the tunnels of governance measuring high in public service delivery.

    “You have made great marks as a lawyer, a legislator, and a technocrat. You demonstrated an outstanding sense of responsibility as the Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives in the Ninth Assembly, and now as Chief of Staff to Mr. President, you are playing insightful roles in the Renewed Hope administration, igniting flames of inspiration in the hearts of many Nigerians.

    “I pray for God to continue to bless and prosper your endeavours,” Umahi said.

  • Tinubu celebrates Gbajabiamila’s birthday

    Tinubu celebrates Gbajabiamila’s birthday

    President Bola Tinubu has extended congratulations to his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, on his birthday.

    Gbajabiamila was Speaker of the House of Representatives (2019-2023). He represented Surulere 1 Federal Constituency of Lagos State from 2003 to 2023.

    A statement by the president’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, commended Gbajabiamila’s diligence, sense of responsibility, patriotism, and dedication to the country’s well-being.

    He wished his Chief of Staff many more years of good health and renewed strength in his service to Nigeria.

    Read Also: Tinubu appoints Tunji Bello as New CEO FC CPC

    “President Bola Tinubu extends his warm congratulations to his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, on his birthday. Honourable Gbajabiamila, a statesman and prolific public administrator, is an accomplished lawyer who previously served as the Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2019 to 2023.

    “Owing to the quality of leadership and representation he provided for Surulere 1 Federal Constituency of Lagos State, Gbajabiamila maintained a perfect streak of re-elections across decades from 2003 until 2023 when he was appointed as Chief of Staff to the President.

    “President Tinubu joins family, friends, and staff of the presidency to celebrate an exceptional leader on this special occasion. The President commends Gbajabiamila for his diligence, high sense of responsibility, patriotic zeal, and commitment to the common good.

    “President Tinubu wishes his Chief of Staff many more years in good health and renewed strength in his service to the country.”

  • Gbajabiamila remains best hand in Tinubu’s government, says Speaker Abbas

    Gbajabiamila remains best hand in Tinubu’s government, says Speaker Abbas

    Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Abbas Tajudeen said on Monday that the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila is a phenomenon and one of the best hands in the Tinubu government.

    The speaker has paid glowing tributes to Gbajabiamila who is the immediate past Speaker of the House on his 62nd birthday.

    In a congratulatory message signed by his special adviser on media and publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the Speaker said Gbajabiamila remains a phenomenon having reached 62 years on earth.

    Speaker Abbas said he was elated that Gbajabiamila has made his mark and left his footprints in the sand of time during his over 20-year service in the House of Representatives, especially as Speaker of the 9th House.

    Read Also: Reps deputy speaker felicitates Gbajabiamila, Sanwo-Olu on birthdays

    While noting Gbajabiamila’s “exceptional contributions to the growth and development of the nation’s democracy, especially the Legislature,” Speaker Abbas said the Chief of Staff to the President has distinguished himself as a democrat par excellence.

    He said Gbajabiamila’s legacy projects in the National Assembly have been of great benefit not just to the 10th Assembly and the public but also to the Assemblies to come.

    He said little wonder that President Tinubu found the former Speaker worthy of being his top aide to manage the President’s schedule and assist him in his quest to bring about good governance in Nigeria.

    While describing Gbajabiamila as “one of the best hands in Tinubu’s government”, he said: “I am most elated to wish my predecessor and the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, happy 62nd birthday.

    “At 62, Gbajabiamila will go down in history as one of the finest legislators the National Assembly has ever produced. His democratic credentials are legion.

    “In the history of the Nigerian Parliament and our democracy, Femi Gbajabiamila has written his name in gold.

    “I can only wish him well. I pray that God Almighty will continue to preserve his life, give him good health and increase him in wisdom to serve our fatherland the best way he can.”

  • Alleged $30bn loot: First News apologises to Gbajabiamila

    Alleged $30bn loot: First News apologises to Gbajabiamila

    The management of First News online newspaper has apologised to the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, over a news story published on its platform on January 29, 2024.

    The story written by the medium’s editor, Segun Olatunji, was entitled, “How Gbajabiamila attempted to corner $30bn, 66 houses traced to Sabiu.”

    The First News Management, in a statement on Wednesday, May 8, said it had discovered the said story contained “falsehoods and fabricated stories handed out to us as facts by a misleading source which was highly negligent on our part and for which we deeply tender an unreserved apology to the Chief of Staff to the President.”

    “As a responsible media organisation, we wish to state very categorically that we have no malicious intent towards the person of the Chief of Staff to the President or his office. Hence, our decision to tender an unreserved apology and the need to publish a retraction of the said story.”

    Segun Olatunji was arrested and detained in an underground cell by the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA).

    The Publisher of FirstNews Online, Daniel Iworiso-Markson, said the case has been settled out of court.

    Olatunji was abducted in his home in the Iyana Odo, Abule Egba area of Lagos state in March, eliciting wild condemnation from the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Newspapers Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN) and International Press Institute (IPI).

    Read Also: Alleged libel: Gbajabiamila demands apology, retraction

    The management of the online Newspaper initially linked the action to a recent story published by FirstNews titled, “Revealed: “Defence Chief running an office like a family business – Public Interest Lawyers”, but later knew it was the anti-Gbajabiamila story.

    The arrest has thrown panic among the staff of the newspaper.

    It was gathered that his wife, Abiodun Olatunji, said the armed men numbering ten arrived at their residence, a few minutes after 6 pm and whisked her husband away without leaving any information behind as to where they were taking him to.

    She said her husband’s abductors reached for his phone and seized it immediately after they arrived before bundling him into a van like a common criminal and zooming off.

    While further narrating the incident, she said efforts to know his offence or where they were taken him to, were rebuffed by the stern-looking men.

    “Some armed men dressed in military uniform totalling ten in number (two in uniform and the remaining 8 in mufti but all armed) arrived at our residence at Dauda Oriyomi street, Iyana Odo along Joke Ayo in Abule Egba area of Lagos State and took away my husband.

    “They refused to state his offence and where they were taken him to despite all the efforts to make them do so”, she said.

    The Publisher of FirstNews, Daniel Iworiso-Markson, who also confirmed the incident, said there has been no trace of Olatunji, as his phone line has been switched, neither has anyone reached the family or the management of FirstNews to disclose the real reason behind his abduction.

    While condemning the way and manner Olatunji was whisked away, Iworiso-Markson stated that he was never invited formally to answer any issue that bothered national security.

    “The management of FirstNews is using this opportunity to call on the military high command and the security agencies to let us know his whereabouts and the reason why he was arrested.

    “FirstNews (online & print) is a reputable independent digital news network that prides itself on being a frontline media outfit committed to engaging her world-class audience with factual, authentic, and credible information.

    “We conduct our journalism activities with strict observance of the high standards of ethics, accountability, professionalism, and legality while exercising our rights to freedom of expression and information, all in a bid to ensure credible reporting of the news behind the news in Politics, Business, Education, Sport, Health, Entertainment and many more.

    “If there was any infraction that bothers on national security, Olatunji should have first been formally invited rather than this Gestapo style of arrest that reminds of the dark days of the military era, where press freedom was stifled”.