The Nation Newspaper

Tag: President Muhammadu Buhari

  • We will drive implementation of SDG with private sector – Adefulire

    We will drive implementation of SDG with private sector – Adefulire

    The Senior Special Assistant on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to President Muhammadu Buhari, Mrs. Victoria Orelope- Adefulire has given the assurance that Nigeria is on course to meet major aspects of the SDGs.

    Mrs. Orelope-Adefulire while speaking in Abuja also revealed that the country would collaborate with relevant international agencies and make use of proven best practices while working closely with Nigeria’s private sector to drive the implementation of the SDG in the country.

    She said her office is partnering with the Ministry of Budget and National Planning to domesticate the 2030 Agenda by integrating it with the Medium Term Expenditure Framework as well as aligning it with the National Development Plan.

    Nigeria is also taking the lead in Africa by showing best practice in early domestication, integration and implementation of these goals through sub-national mainstreaming, inter-agency coordination and institutional strengthening.

    The Special Assistant who was also former Deputy Governor in Lagos said one of the major areas of collaboration is bridging the financial gap which has been a major challenge towards the implementation of the SDG.

    She said: “Our major challenge is inadequate resource flow due to the global economic downturn. We are reviewing the globally acclaimed best practices, such as the Conditional Grants Scheme, to ensure there is right targeting and efficiency in resource allocation to the grassroots.

    “By collaborating with the private sector, the SDGs Office will lead Nigeria’s drive to reduce the huge financing gap that tended to hamper progress on the SDGs.”

    Orelope-Adelifure said her office is also collaborating with different stakeholders in the private sector to in such areas , such as science, technology and innovation, data as well as human resources. She revealed that Sahara Group, an indigenous oil and gas company led by Tonye Douglas Cole  is sponsoring a United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Fund (UN SDG-F) workshop, on the development of a Universal Sustainable Development Agenda as a background to the nationalization of the SDG-F goals for Nigeria.

    According to her, the workshop is to get inputs and insights from the UN SDG-F and the private sector on how businesses can effectively contribute their quota towards achieving the SDG’s in Nigeria.

    “This is important due to the need for public and private sector agencies and organizations to understand the platforms available for collaboration, to meet the SDG-F goals in Nigeria.With the workshop, we will be opportunity for discussion to facilitate the creation of a collaborative National framework towards the successful implementation of the SDGs,” she said.

    According to the Presidential aide the workshop will bring together public and private sector players to discuss the universality of the new SDGs Agenda and its 17 goals. It will also  provide guidance on creating the right model for the full implementation of the SDG’s in Nigeria.

    She said: “The ultimate aim would be to work closely with the private sector to develop initiatives that would address the peculiarities of nationalizing the SDG’s in Nigeria in line with the Universality Agenda.  The workshop would form the basis for developing a framework for further discussions scheduled for the last quarter of the 2016.”

    On September 25, 2015, at the 70th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, member states of the United Nations adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Agenda has a set of 17 SDGs and 169 targets, with a framework for a peaceful, just, equitable and inclusive world. The new development Agenda  also aligns with Nigeria’s drive to deliver democratic dividends and improve the lives of the poor.

    The 2030 Agenda commits all signatory countries to work together to promote sustained and inclusive economic growth, social development and environmental protection; ensure that every person fulfilled his or her potentials in dignity and equality in a healthy environment.

  • Bayelsa elders to Buhari: Your aides frustrating talks with avengers

    Bayelsa elders to Buhari: Your aides frustrating talks with avengers

    Notable elders and traditional rulers from Bayelsa State, Saturday, told President Muhammadu Buhari that some of his aides were frustrating the proposed peace talks between his government and the militant group, the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA).

    The elders who eulogized the President for taking a decision to lead the dialogue, however, said discordant tunes among presidential aides created doubts in the process.

    They said the avengers became skeptical of the dialogue following signs of deceit, fraud and disharmony among the aides.

    The elders under the auspices of Bayelsa Elders for Progress, Peace and Good Governance (BEPPGG) led by their Coordinator, Chief Ayibatonye Goodnews and ‎Secretary, Chief Lucky Ebifaghe, wondered why attacks on pipelines had continued despite dialogue and ceasefire.

    They alleged that the recent activities of key aides from the region including the Minister of State for Petroleum, Ibe Kachichukwu and the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Brig. Gen. Paul Boroh, were frustrating the peace efforts of the Federal Government.

    The concerned elders, in an open letter to the President said: “President Buhari should investigate the genuiness of purported meetings held between the Presidential Amnesty Boss, Paul Boroh and Dr. Ibe Kachichukwu.

    “How can they claim to have met stakeholders and the militant attacks continues? They met some fake militants and stakeholders and wasted scarce resources of the Federal Government on jamboree.

    “The Amnesty Boss,who claimed to have relocated to the creeks of the region was only sighted in Tompolo’s community with cladestine meetings without solution to the continued bombing of the Oil and Gas facilities.

    “Buhari should investigate the money expended on the jamboree without result. We insist that the Presidential Amnesty Office should be probed following the alleged failed sharing of resources to fake avengers.

    “The lack of knowledge on key issues of the region and wrong signals sent to militants ‎along the creeks are frustrating the needed peace process. Many of the purported stakeholders have made money from the self created jamboree in the region. Genuine Niger Delta Stakeholders should be consulted for sustained peace.”

  • I will remain open to Nigerians – Buhari

    I will remain open to Nigerians – Buhari

    President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday said that his administration will not hide anything from Nigerians in its resolute commitment to restore the economic fortunes of the country and deliver prosperity to them.

    Receiving the Northern Christian Leaders Eagles Eyes Forum at the State House, Abuja, the President appealed to the religious leaders not to lose hope in the unity, stability and progress of the country.

    Buhari, in a statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, also emphasized that the Federal Government will continue to prioritize the safety of lives and property, in addition to equipping Nigerian farmers with the right tools, technology and techniques to boost agriculture.

    He said: “You must tell your followers the truth about the country. We have nothing to hide because we have no other country but Nigeria.

    “Tell them to give us a chance to stabilize the country. Your concern for the security, unemployment, anti-corruption campaign and the frequent altercations between herdsmen and farmers are genuine concerns.

    “I know the Ministry of Agriculture and the Governors Forum are doing a lot to resolve the lingering crisis between herdsmen and farmers, we must give them a chance,’’ the President said.

    He thanked the Christian leaders for their support to the Federal Government’s anti-corruption campaign and other policies geared towards reviving the economy.

    He added: “It is saddening that some of those who stole from our national resources put the money in their personal accounts.

    “However, it is gratifying that those who stole money and shared funds meant for the purchase of arms for our military are regretting their actions and they will regret more.

    “Those caught in corruption will have themselves to blame,’’ he said.

    In his remarks, leader of the Forum, Pastor Aminchi Habu called on Nigerians to support the President’s anti-corruption war and his vision to restore the lost glory of Nigeria.

    “In your administration, I see a new Nigeria where the fear of bribery, corruption and extortion is the beginning of wisdom.

    “I see a new Nigeria, where tribalism, religion and ethnicity is no longer a barrier that separates us but a bond that unites us for a greater tomorrow,’’ he added

  • APC youths task Buhari on NDDC board

    APC youths task Buhari on NDDC board

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) Southern Senatorial District Youths in Ondo State have urged President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently constitute board members for the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
    The youths spoke through their senatorial youth leader, Mr. Soji Ogungbeni, to reporters shortly after their monthly meeting held in Okitipupa local government.
    The youth leader blamed resuscitation of militancy in the Niger Delta region as the failure of the present administration to constitute the NDDC board.
    Ogungbeni expressed optimism that if the government put the board in place, it would help to arrest the scourge of militants’ activities in the region.
    The APC chieftain noted that “the President must understand that his failure to constitute the NDDC board has drawn the Niger Delta, which Ondo southern senatorial district is part of backward.
    “We the youths in APC believe that putting the board in place would fast track development and also help to curb the resuscitation of militant activities in the region.
    “The President must understand that the Niger Delta areas lay the gold egg and issues affecting these areas must be given a special attention.
    “We the youths from the Niger Delta areas believe in this present administration and we also believe that we are in safe hand.”
    However, he commended the President for appointing the APC South West Vice-Chairman, Chief Pius Akinyelure as a member of NNPC.
  • Better days coming, Buhari assures Nigerians

    Better days coming, Buhari assures Nigerians

    Despite the downturn of the economy, President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday assured Nigerians that better days are coming.

    According to him, he is not unaware of what Nigerians are presently going through.

    He commended them for their sacrifices in the face of the current economic challenges.

    This was contained in his Eid-el-Fitr message to the nation, which he personally signed.

    He said: “I am not unaware of what Nigerians are going through and I want to use this medium to commend the amazing sacrifices of Nigerians in the face of the temporary economic and social challenges and also reassure Nigerians that my administration is working assiduously towards providing basic needs and other amenities.

    “Let me also use this opportunity to reaffirm that we will not relent in the fight against corruption and we will ensure that all appropriate and legal measures are deplored to root out this malaise.

    “I promise you all better days ahead even as we remain grateful for your unflinching support to our administration.

    Happy Eid El Fitr celebration and May the Almighty Allah continue to bless our nation.
    Eid Mubarak!” He said

    Buhari again appealed to Nigerians who have the means, to remember the millions of Nigerians who are suffering deprivation because of violence perpetrated by terrorists.

    The President commended the Armed Forces and security agencies for the gains recorded in the fight against terrorists and the rescue of hostages in the North East part of the country.

    He also appealed for the support, understanding and patience of all Nigerians and our international partners as the government explores the fastest means to end the economic sabotage in the Niger Delta and amicably resolve the conflicts within the region.

    On Eid El Fitr, he said: “I felicitate with all Nigerians, especially the Muslim Ummah, on the occasion of this year’s Eid El Fitr, which marks the completion of the Ramadan fast.

    “I congratulate Muslims in Nigeria and around the world on the successful completion of this month-long spiritual journey of fasting, prayer and almsgiving in obedience to the Divine Command.

    “I sincerely pray that the Almighty Allah will reward our sacrifices with increased blessing and a more prosperous future. On this happy occasion, it is my strong belief that all true followers of Islam have been rejuvenated on the true meaning and essence of life and through the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), we have learnt to imbibe the virtues of piety, sacrifice, love, self-denial and good conduct in our daily relationship with one another.

    “As we celebrate another Eid El Fitr, I admonish all patriotic Nigerians to uphold these lessons and also appreciate the numerous material and human blessings God has endowed us with,” he said.

    As his administration strive to make Nigeria great again, he urged Nigerians to learn to show gratitude, respect and tolerance to one other, irrespective of their religion, tribe, language and political leanings.

  • Buhari vows to deal with anti-corruption detractors

    Buhari vows to deal with anti-corruption detractors

    President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday night declared that those planning to deter his administration from fighting corruption in the country will face the consequences.

    He spoke at the Presidential Villa during the breaking of fast with some Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), Taxi drivers, hair dressers, motorcycle riders, barbers, transport workers, butchers, tailors, and junior staff of the campaign office of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    He said: “Whoever deters us from fighting corruption will suffer the consequences.”

    The President said that it was unfortunate that some members of the elite were self-centred and only cared for themselves as very little was on ground to show for the huge income got from sales of oil in the 16 years of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) rule.

    Noting that they mismanaged what accrued to the country, he said that the past administrations were not able to fix power, rail, and no drinking water for the populace among other problems.

    He told the group that his administration was conscious of their needs and desire but that the government met very poor conditions on ground.

    The prices of oil in the international market, he noted, fell from above $100 to $30 per barrel, which has adversely affected the economy.

    The President took time to personally serve some of the physically-challanged Nigerians the type of food they wanted to eat during the dinner.

    Delivering the votes of thanks, a disabled, Musbahu Lawal Didi commended the President for having the interest of disabled persons at heart.

    He also urged the President to set up a Commission for the disabled so that their interest can be further taken care of.

    Muslim and Christian prayers were offered by two IDPs including Musa Abdullahi from Gwoza, Borno State and Joseph Jauro from Adamawa State.

    Present at the dinner included the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir David Lawal.

    The Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate represented Senate President Buk

  • Buhari okays new board of directors for NNPC

    Buhari okays new board of directors for NNPC

    President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the composition of the Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), as provided for under Section 1(2) of the NNPC Act of 1997, as amended.

    The new board, according to a statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, is chaired by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu.

    Other members include Group Managing Director, Dr Maikanti Kacalla Baru; the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance.

    Also in the board are Mallam Abba Kyari, Dr Thomas M.A John, Dr Pius O. Akinyelure, Dr Tajuddeen Umar, Mallam Mohammed Lawal, and Mallam Yusuf Lawal.

    President Buhari urged the new board to ensure the successful delivery of the mandate of the NNPC.

    The board, he said, should also: “Serve the nation by upholding the public trust placed on them in managing this critical national asset.”

  • Be patient with Buhari, Atiku tells Nigerians

    Be patient with Buhari, Atiku tells Nigerians

    Former Vice President and Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Atiku Abubakar has appealed to Nigerians to be patient with the President Muhammadu Buhari led government, assuring that their support for the government will soon start yielding dividends.

    In his Sallah message to Nigerian Muslims, the former Vice President asked Muslims to portray Islam positively through the spirit of tolerance and commitment to peaceful coexistence in their everyday conducts.

    He said the lessons of this Holy month should be taken beyond the celebration, adding that self-discipline and love for fellow human beings is one of the important virtues of the Ramadan fasting period, and that these virtues should not “desert our hearts because the event has come to an end.”

    He explain that abstention from eating and drinking “is an important reminder to the Muslim faithful that there are millions of others who go without food daily on account of their poverty.”

    While asking the Muslims ummah in particular and Nigerians in General to continue to show patience with the Muhammadu Buhari administration, which he says is aware of hardships they were passing through, Atiku assured that their support for the government would ultimately yield dividends.

    He said the President should be commended for the courageous measures he has taken to ensure public funds meant for the welfare of the people and development of the country are not stolen and diverted to private pockets of individuals.

    He assures Nigerians that their patience will yield dividends, adding that “every change comes with initial challenges, pains and sacrifices for a better tomorrow.”

    Also, the Nigeria Labour congress (NLC) said Nigerians should consider the Eid-el-Fitr celebration as a clarion call to higher service to this great nation in other to make the nation work again.

    In his Sallah Message, President of the Congress, Comrade Ayuba Wabba, said the Ramadan fast hitch nine of the obligations of Islam availed Muslim faithful a great opportunity of self-discipline, humility, sharing, piety, scholarship, and strengthening of one’s relationship with Allah.

    He said: “The celebration of Eid-el-Fitr therefore represents obedience to Allah, renewal of faith, service, and the imbibing of higher moral values. The importance of Eid-el-Fitr therefore should not be lost on us. More than ever before, these lessons are relevant in our personal and public lives if we are to make progress as a nation.

    “I therefore urge all Nigerians, Muslims and non- Muslims alike to use the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr to reflect on the state of the nation with a view to confronting the numerous challenges that beset us.

    “I have no doubt that with discipline, piety, humility, scholarship, good neighbourliness or a sense of consideration for others and renewal of our faith in God, that we shall prevail.

    “Eid-el-Fitr avails us an opportunity to deepen our faith in our country and our belief in ourselves to fight the vices that divide us as well as stifle national development such as corruption, social injustices, inequities, discrimination, politics of exclusion and other vices just as it avails us an opportunity to experience the pains and pangs of hunger of the poor, the deprived and the excluded.

    “In light of the above, I urge all of us Nigerians to consider this Eid-el-Fitr as a clarion call to higher service to this great nation so we could have electricity, potable water, shelter, jobs, security, good roads, rail, a strong economy, and above all, a sense of belonging. Let us make Nigeria work again”.

  • Oyegun to Nigerians: Pray for Buhari’s government

    Oyegun to Nigerians: Pray for Buhari’s government

    National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, has appealed to Nigerians to support and pray for the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari as well as for the peace and development of the country.

    In a message to Muslims on the successful completion of Ramadan fast, Oyegun reminded them of the cardinal message that although Eid-el-fitr signifies the end of Ramadan, the doctrines of moderation, piety, regular supplication to Allah (SWT), and being a brother’s keeper subsist always beyond the Ramadan.

    Odigie-Oyegun: “Amidst Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, Muslim faithful are enjoined to spare a thought for the country. The APC also calls on Muslim faithful and indeed all Nigerians to use the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr to pray for the peace, development and prosperity of the country. The Party also calls on Nigerians to pray and support the administration as it continues to develop and implement socio-development initiatives for the good of the country.

    “Happily, the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration is already nursing Nigeria’s battered economy back to life. Nigeria has regained its rightful place amongst the comity of progressive nations. The implementation of palliative measures and social safety nets contained in the 2016 National Budget will ease the current economic hardships in the country.

    “As we celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, I pray that Allah (SWT) accept our prayers and guide the country out of the present rough patch. I wish all Nigerians a happy and fulfilling celebration. Eid-el-Mubarak!”

  • Eid-el-fitri: Sustain Ramadan virtues – Kalu urges Nigerians

    Former Governor of Abia State, Dr. Orji Kalu has urged Nigerians to sustain the virtues associated with the Muslim fast at Ramadan,  charging them to live in peace and harmony, describing the  future of the country as  bright under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari.

    Kalu pointed out that the heterogeneous nature of Nigeria should be seen as an advantage, noting that peaceful co-existence among Nigerians regardless of religion, tribe, economic and social status is a panacea for sustainable development

    In a statement signed by his Special Adviser, Alhaji Kunle Oyewumi, Kalu said,”It is indeed another opportunity to join our Muslim brothers and sisters to celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Fitr in commemoration of the successful completion of the month-long spiritual exercise.

    “ Sallah period is a season of spiritual rebirth and fulfillment and as such, we should use the occasion to offer special prayers for the nation.

    “The tenets of the holy month of Ramadan must be sustained by the Muslim Ummah as a way of keeping to the teachings of the holy Qu’ran and exemplary qualities of Prophet Mohammed.

    “We must imbibe the acts of alms giving, togetherness, love and sacrifice in our daily lives.”

    Kalu, while wishing the Muslim community a hitch-free festivity, he reminded them to celebrate with people of other religious faith.