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Tag: Shettima

  • Nigeria on journey to self-discovery, says Shettima

    Nigeria on journey to self-discovery, says Shettima

    • VP launches OTNI for private-public sector synergy, job creation

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has said Nigeria cannot take over the world without understanding the right road to the future.

    The Vice President spoke at the inauguration of 2,000 jobs to vibrant and talented youths yesterday in Gombe State under the Outsource Nigeria Initiative (OTNI).

    The Vice President said for too long, the country had underestimated its potential that could unlock her future.

    He described OTNI as a catalyst for change in business processes and technology-enabled outsourcing sector said to be the fastest route to job security for the teeming youths in the state and other parts of the country.

    “Today, we embark on a journey of self-discovery. It’s a paradox for any country to possess the advantages we have and still rank in the middle or at the bottom of the economic chain.

    “This is why we are here to provide a gateway to the world and remind ourselves that we are an epicentre of knowledge, an incubator of innovation, and a nurturer of brilliance. We can’t take over the world if we don’t know the road to the future. And so, we are honoured to join you in this quest.

    “For too long, we have overlooked the treasure within our demographic dividends. For too long, we have underestimated our role in the knowledge economy. Far beyond the magnitude of our population and the global utility of our proficiency in English lies a profound characteristic — the Nigerian spirit.

    “From the bustling cityscape of Aberdeen to the vibrant landscapes of Melbourne and the financial hubs of Zurich, this Nigerian spirit of excellence thrives. It is, therefore, time to recognise our potential and embrace this unique identity as we set out to explore the markets eager for our unique contributions.

    “Today, we are not only presenting to you the Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OTNI) with the honourable aim of taking over the world. We present to you a lens to see the needs of the world, a bridge to interact with the world, and a vehicle to reach the world from the comfort of your offices and homes in Nigeria.

    “Outsourcing, as an economic strategy, is not just about efficiency; it’s a profound recognition of our interconnectedness in the global economy. Outsourcing is also a strategy to counteract brain drain and channel our talents and skills into reconstructing a Nigeria that works,” he said.

    Praising President Bola Tinubu for his foresight, Shettima said: “In President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we have a leader whose vision transcends the immediate horizon. He is a refined economic strategist who understands the balance between our present circumstances and the trajectory of the global landscape.

    “Our routes to the future hinge upon our sensitivity to our realities. The tough decisions we have taken may pose short-term challenges, but rest assured, they are strategic investments to fortify the foundations of our economy.

    Read Also: Oronsaye report: Labour cautions Fed Govt against job loss

    “As your guarantee, I affirm that the reforms in progress will not only weather the storms but usher in a future where we shall stand grateful for the resilience and foresight displayed in propelling our nation towards economic prosperity.”

    Shettima explained that the OTNI, which is the global business process for outsourcing industry, is a towering monument valued at over $250 billion.

    Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya said the initiative would unlock the business potential of the state and position it as a beacon of opportunity and innovation.

    Other dignitaries at the event included Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi; deputy governors of Borno and Gombe states; the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris; the Emirs of Gombe and Biu, as well as the Secretary to Gombe State Government (SSG), Prof. Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi.

  • Economic challenges ‘ll soon be over, says Shettima

    Economic challenges ‘ll soon be over, says Shettima

    Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has said the current economic challenges would soon be over.

    He appealed to Nigerians to react to the current realities “in a responsible and mature manner.”

    Shettima spoke yesterday in Lagos during the 29th pre-Ramadan lecture organised by the University of Lagos Muslim Alumni (UMA) with the theme, “Economic Reforms for Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects for the Future.”

    Represented by his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, Shettima noted that the forthcoming Ramadan would come with “severe” challenges for many Nigerians.

    The Vice President said the reforms might be challenging but the government has no intention to punish Nigerians.

    He said: “The leadership of President Tinubu recognizes that this Ramadan will come with severe challenges for most Nigerians. The road to where we are today was long and full of missed opportunities and tragic failures to build on our great potentials.

    “The consequences of our past are the stark realities we face today, such as rising cost of living and pessimism over our prospect to turn round our economy in the direction of growth and inclusive development.

    “Yet, my brothers and sisters, we do not have the choice of continuing in the direction that brought us where we are today. We have to fix this country, and failure to do this is not an option. All the options we have are difficult and challenging, and they are, without a doubt, more telling on the poor. If there are easier and reliable alternatives to the policy choices we have adopted, we would have adopted them.

    “Our administration does not plan to make lives of Nigerians more difficult. Nor do we intend to deceive fellow citizens that the change in direction and the expected outcome can be achieved without pain or sacrifices.

    “We are also acutely aware that ours is a set of related Nigerian problems, and the solutions we seek must be genuinely informed by a Nigerian context, not the experiences of others or the preferences of special foreign interests which are removed from consequences of mis-steps or errors of judgement.

    “Fellow alumni, I appeal to you to help make space for our administration to achieve the goal of turning our nation around. As products of a distinguished institution, we have learnt that progress is only possible if it is informed by criticism and critical scrutiny. We expect that Nigerians should express their feelings over our circumstances in a responsible and mature manner. We are also a deeply religious people, and we believe in the powers of faith and prayers. Let us be reminded that Allah tests His servants with ease and hardship, and He asks that we pray to Him for relief from hardship, and discipline in times of abundance.

    “I join you in praying that Allah will grant us the privilege of undertaking our Ramadan fast as prescribed by Him, and we shall receive the reward.”

    Chairman of the occasion, Yusuf Ola-Olu Ali represented by Deputy President of Muslim Ummah of Southwest Nigeria (MUSWEN) Alhaji Wale Sonaike, said any economic reform must be well thought out and diligently implemented, adding that Nigeria must transform from a consumption nation to a production nation.

    Earlier in his welcome address, UMA President Prof Khalid Adekoya, expressed hopef that the hardships will recede and better times will come when policies being introduced begin to yield good fruits.

    Prof Adekoya said this will materialise only if all stakeholders (government and the governed) play their part in line with global best practices in rejuvenating an ailing economy and, above all, if we imbibe the fear of Allah in the true sense of it.

    “However, we are obligated to take some practical steps as a nation. We must invest extensively and pragmatically especially in manufacturing and Agro-Allied industries. Manufacturing will promote local production, boost employment and reduce our dependence on imported goods. Agriculture will eliminate hunger and reduce crime and criminality. Government should also make concerted efforts to achieve fiscal and monetary policy consolidation to tackle inflation; strengthen our public services to improve efficiency and reduce corruption; improve the business environment to attract investment; fight insurgency and banditry to improve security nationwide,” Prof Adekoya said.

    Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), Mr. Niyi Yusuf, said the country must drive foreign direct investments (FDI), tame inflation and tackle the foreign exchange volatility to achieve $1 trillion economy in 2030.

    He said the $1 trillion economy is achievable through three pathways which include export diversification and sophistication strategy; innovation and digital transformation strategy and sub-national integration strategy.

    Yusuf said the current headline inflation at 29.9 per cent and food inflation at over 35 per cent means the poor are getting poor.

    According to him, the government must improve the tax to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from the present eight per cent which is the lowest in Africa to 15 per cent.

    Read Also: Shettima receives new Christian Pilgrim Commission’s board

    He said: “January 2017 was when we had a single digit inflation. We want businesses to thrive and investors to come and between Adamawa and Uyo, we have 154 checkpoints. From Agbara to Seme borders, we have 46 checkpoints.

    “Nigeria is the only country with multiple checkpoints at our airports. Motorists pay 73 taxes to move goods from the North to South. Insecurity has chased our farmers away, flooding has affected our farmlands.”

    He admitted that the removal of subsidy is a decision that should have been taken a decade ago.

    “We must first stabilise our economy, tame forex volatility and inflation rate. Government must block all fiscal leakages in the CBN, NNPC, FIRS and we must increase our tax to GDP ratio. Also we must support local businesses and invest in digital infrastructure.

    “How do we track progress? Our budget should be more on capital than recurrent. We are barely growing to meet the demands of our growing population. We must look at how the critical sectors are growing like agriculture, ICT, construction, among others because these are the sectors that support employment.

    “We must track budget allocation. Our capital expenditure must be more than the recurrent and debt servicing otherwise we are not progressing. Again growth will not happen until we solve electricity supply issue. Presently only 46 per cent of the population has access to power. We can’t run on generator economy,” he said.

    Prominent Islamic scholar Sheikh Dawud Abdul-Majeed said Nigeria’s economic problem was as a result of the country’s extravagant lifestyle.

    Nigerians, he said, should not be suffering with its rich natural resources like oil, rubber, land, among others.

    He added that Nigeria has no reason to be poor.

    In their discussions, Prof. Jameelah Yaqub of the Department of Economics, Lagos State University and Dr. Jubril Salaudeen of Nungu Business School said economic reforms must be wholistic.

  • FG to deploy new strategies against banditry, kidnapping, others —Shettima

    FG to deploy new strategies against banditry, kidnapping, others —Shettima

    Vice-President Kashim Shettima  emerged from a closed door meeting with  former President Muhammadu Buhari in Daura, Katsina State yesterday with a promise of  new strategies by the federal government to check the the security challenges in parts of the country.

    Shettima ,who was accompanied by a powerful delegation of ministers and the immediate past governor of Imo State, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, told reporters that  the  federal government planned to deploy new strategies to deal with such  security challenges like  armed banditry, kidnapping and others.

    Government, according to him, would spare no resources and expertise to ensure restoration of security of life and property in all parts of the country.

    The Vice President had led a delegation of government officials to pay a condolence visit on the people and Government of Katsina State and a courtesy call on former President Buhari in Daura.

    Shettima said the visit was to enable government   commiserate with the people of the state on the heightened offensive from terrorists. ⁣

     He  said, “We felt duty-bound to come and identify with him (Buhari), and also to commiserate with the Governor and people of Katsina over the sad incident which led to the loss of lives in the past couple of days and reassure them of the federal government’s determination and to convey the best wishes of President Bola Tinubu to his excellency President Muhammadu Buhari and to further reassure them that the government will leave no stone unturned, will expend whatever resources that are needed to safeguard the lives and properties of citizens.” ⁣

    He vowed that   the Tinubu administration was on course to fulfill its campaign promises to Nigerians regardless of the current  the economic crisis.

    He called for the continued support of all Nigerians for the government.

    The delegation of government officials also prayed for sustained good health for the former leader who thanked them for the visit. ⁣

    The visitors also met with the Emir of Daura, Alhaji Umar Faruk Umar at his palace in Daura and the Emir of Katsina, Dr.Abdulmumin Usman.

    The visit came 24 hours  after residents of communities in Kurfi Local Government Area protested incessant terrorist activities on their turf. ⁣

    Protesters, drawn from Birchi, Wurma and other nearby communities, blocked the Dutsin Ma – Katsina highway from around 10 a.m. on Friday, burning corn stalks and tyres, in protest of incessant bandit attacks

    Governor Dikko  Radda, who addressed the protesters and Wurma community leaders, vowed to continue fighting terrorists in the state.

    On Tuesday, terrorists torched a newly built primary healthcare centre, houses, vehicles and police outposts.

    Shettima and his entourage were received was received at the the Musa Yaradua International Airport ,Katsina by  Governor Radda before leaving for Daura.

    Read Also: Emefiele moves out of CBN Gov’s quarters in Lagos

    The Vice President arrived the former President’s residence at about   1 p.m and launched into discussion which lasted  about 30 minutes.

    Also on the VP’s entourage were Budget and Economic Planning Minister  Abubakar Atiku Bagudu and Agriculture and Food Security Minister  Abubakar Kyari.

    For several years now,gunmen have been killing,maiming and looting in  Katsina and neighouring states like Kaduna,Sokoto,Zamfara and Kebbi in the North West.

    Although the security agencies have been unrelenting in stemming the wave of banditry,the situation is yet to be completely brought under control.

    The gunmen have seized control of socio-economic affairs in many communities where they impose protection levies on the residents.

    Farmers are required to pay the bandits for them to go to their farm and harvest.

    This has forced many farmers off the land.

  • Shettima receives new Christian Pilgrim Commission’s board

    Shettima receives new Christian Pilgrim Commission’s board

    • … Tasks board on steadfastness, devotion to duty

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has tasked the newly appointed Board of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) to demonstrate unwavering devotion to duty.

    This was contained in a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, on Friday, March 1.

    Addressing the delegation that came on a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa, VP Shettima reminded the board members of the importance of religious commitment in addressing the challenges facing the nation.

    The Vice President also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s positive impact on the nation, attributing the President’s success to divine blessings and the purity of his heart.

    He said: “The road that led us to the Tinubu Presidency did not happen by chance. This is a man whose trajectory is characterized by making sacrifices for the good of the nation.”

    Highlighting Tinubu’s role as a sanctuary for victims of political persecution, VP Shettima said the need for leaders to invest in building bridges can never be wished away, noting President Tinubu’s contributions in providing an alternative platform for the Nigerian political system.

    “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made sacrifices and built bridges. He was a veritable sanctuary for victims of political witch hunts. When other governors were struggling to have a seat at the dining table with Obasanjo way back then, he provided an alternative platform for the Nigerian political system,” the Vice President said.

    Addressing the appointed board members, Shettima said: “All of you here were picked because of your religious devotion. We cannot condone what is taking place in the system. We must all strive to make a positive impact to attain the Nigeria of our dreams.”

    Read Also: VP Shettima to speak at UMA Pre-Ramadan lecture

    Earlier, the Executive Secretary of NCPC, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve on the board.

    He also commended the Vice President’s exceptional leadership, recounting instances of support for the church and efforts to foster peace and harmony in Borno State.

    “Your antecedent and what we have known about you are immense. When we came to Maiduguri, Borno State, I was the Director of National Issues and Social Welfare at the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). The then CAN chairman in Borno State said to us that they have an exceptional governor, who supported Christians and rebuilt churches destroyed by Boko Haram,” he said.

    He added that Vice President Shettima stood with the Church and ensured that there was peace and harmony in the church in Nigeria and with people of other faiths.

    Bishop Adegbite also noted that the commission’s role goes beyond pilgrimage as it extends to the duty of ensuring a harmonious environment for the nation.

    “For us as a commission, our assignment is beyond pilgrimage. It is our duty and responsibility to ensure that we have a harmonious environment for our nation, to build bridges and ensure that there is peace and harmony in Nigeria,” he stated.

  • Shettima inaugurates NAHCON Board

    Shettima inaugurates NAHCON Board

    The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, yesterday inaugurated the board of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) at the State House, Abuja.

    Shettima urged members to synergize and bring fresh perspectives to the operations of the commission.

    He urged the commission to introduce innovations in hajj operations.

    According to him, serving on the NAHCON board is very important as Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam.

    “For you, beyond your appointment, it is a win-win situation because if you serve the pilgrims well, Allah will compensate you in the hereafter. So, it is more of a religious duty than an administrative function,” he said.

    “The president deliberately picked people with diverse backgrounds and untainted by the past so that they can bring fresh perspectives and innovations to Hajj operations and also interrogate the management structure of the organisation and bring out the best from the staff.

    “As usual, you will encounter a lot of challenges but I will urge you to fuse into a single force and achieve our desired result. I will urge you to wear your thinking caps and come up with robust solutions that will satisfy Nigerian pilgrims.

    “It is a very tough assignment; this is the nature of pilgrimage. But I want you to have it at the back of your minds that you are rendering service to God and humanity,” he added.

    Read Also: Shettima inaugurates new NAHCON board

    The board comprises Aliu Abdulrazaq (Commissioner, Policy, Personnel, and Finance), Prince Anofi Elegushi (Commissioner, Operations), and Prof Abubakar Yagawal (Commissioner, Planning and Research).

    The zonal and stakeholder representatives include Dr. Muhammad Umaru Ndagi — North Central; Abba Jato Kala — North East; Sheikh Muhammad Bin Othman — North West; Tajudeen Oladejo Abefe — South West; Aishat Obi Ahmed — South East; Zainab Musa — South South; Prof Musa Inuwa Fodio — Jama’atul Nasril Islam, and Prof Mahfouz Adedimeji — Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA).

    Shettima enjoined the new management to improve on the Hajj Savings Scheme to boost the number of pilgrims participating in the exercise across the country.

    He said: “There are states that have become success stories in the Hajj Savings Scheme, and there is a need for greater advocacy so that this scheme can be replicated across the country.”

    He further challenged the board to “engage our agents and operations partners to foster a longer-term relationship so that they can make significant capital investment in operations in the holy land.”

    Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the commission, Malam Jalal Arabi, thanked the President and Vice President for finding them worthy of service to the nation.

  • Shettima inaugurates new NAHCON board

    Shettima inaugurates new NAHCON board

    … Tasks Board members on employing innovation in Hajj operations

    Vice President Kashim Shettima on Wednesday, February 28, inaugurated the newly constituted board of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) at the State House, Abuja.

    Speaking during the inauguration of the new board, Vice President Shettima urged members to synergize and bring fresh perspectives to the operations of the commission.

    According to a statement issued by Senior Special Adviser to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima also called on the new management to introduce innovations in hajj operations in Nigeria.

    He said serving on the NAHCON board is very important given that “Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam.

    “For you, beyond your appointment, it is a win-win situation because if you serve the pilgrims well, almighty Allah will compensate you in the year after. So, it is more of a religious duty than an administrative function.”

    Read Also: Tinubu means well for Nigeria, says SGF Akume

    Speaking further about the composition of the new board and the task ahead of them, Shettima said: “The president deliberately picked people with diverse backgrounds and untainted by the past so that they can bring fresh perspectives and innovations to Hajj operations in Nigeria and also interrogate the management structure of the organisation and bring out the best from the staff.”

    “As usual, you will encounter a lot of challenges but I will urge you to fuse into a single force and achieve our desired result. I will urge you to wear your thinking caps and come up with robust solutions that will satisfy Nigerian pilgrims.

    “It is a very tough assignment; this is the nature of pilgrimage. But I want you to have it at the back of your minds that you are rendering service to God and humanity,” he added.

    The vice president particularly urged the new management to improve the Hajj Savings Scheme to boost the number of pilgrims participating in the exercise across the country.

    His words: “There are States that have become success stories in the Hajj Savings Scheme, and there is a need for greater advocacy so that this scheme can be replicated across the country.”

    He further challenged the board to “engage our agents and operations partners to foster a longer-term relationship so that they can make significant capital investment in operations in the holy land.”

    Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the new board, Malam Jalal Arabi, thanked the President and Vice President for finding them worthy of service to the nation through the NAHCON board.

    He said given the importance of the task ahead of them, the new board would work as a team to improve Hajj operations in Nigeria, assuring that pilgrims will get value for their money.

    The NAHCON CEO said his team has already commenced work with a visit to Saudi Arabia to inspect facilities ahead of the forthcoming operations.

    The newly constituted board comprises Aliu Abdulrazaq (Commissioner, Policy, Personnel, & Finance), Prince Anofi Elegushi (Commissioner, Operations), and Professor Abubakar A. Yagawal (Commissioner, Planning & Research).

    The zonal and stakeholder representatives include Dr. Muhammad Umaru Ndagi — North Central; Abba Jato Kala — North East; Sheikh Muhammad Bin Othman — North West; Tajudeen Oladejo Abefe — South West; Aishat Obi Ahmed — South East; Zainab Musa — South-South; Professor Musa Inuwa Fodio — Jama’atul Nasril Islam, and Professor Adedimizi Mahfouz Adebola — Supreme Council on Islamic Affairs.

    Also, present at the event were the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate; Ministers of Aviation, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, and Interior, Mr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

  • Shettima: Tinubu determined to restore Southeast’s industrial status

    Shettima: Tinubu determined to restore Southeast’s industrial status

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is determined to restore Southeast to its industrial status, Vice President Kashim Shettima said yesterday.

    He spoke when he flagged off the Light Up Nigeria project in Enugu as part of efforts to improve energy supply to industrial clusters in the Southeast.

    The Vice President was also in Aba, the commercial nerve of Abia State, where he inaugurated the 188 Mega Watts Aba Integrated Power Plant Project by the Geometric Power Limited.

    He described the completion of the project, which has lingered for over 20 years, as significant.

    The Light up Nigeria Southeast Business Roundtable was organised by the Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC) and its partners.

    The Vice President hailed the collaboration as significant.

    He said: “This marks the renewal of hope for investors and industrialists.

    “This is not a ribbon-cutting charade, this is a calculated endeavour to re-engineer our economy.

    “The project serves as a long-awaited solution to the power supply that has undermined our economy over the past decades.

    “This intervention is a calculated endeavour to re-engineer our economy, oil the wheels of industries and stabilise our electricity supply industry.

    “Power is a sinequanon for any industrial takeoff. No matter the efforts committed to industrial development, if there’s no power, there can be no industrialisation.

    “The economic fortune of Nigeria remains the critical concern of President Tinubu as we believe that if the power sector works, Nigeria works too. So we must make the project work and make Southeast work

    “The Southeast is an industrial powerhouse and its economic fortune remains a critical aspect of President Bola Tinubu. He wants Southeast to work again. If Southeast works, Nigeria works.”

    Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, who spoke virtually, said the initiative aligns with his administration’s disruptive approach to governance underpinned by thinking outside the box.

    He said: “This project ensures efficient dispatch of power to the largest consumers via bilateral sales agreements, which overrides the existing bulk purchase arrangements through NBET, leveraging on a willing buyer, willing seller structure.

    “The programme will certainly bring improved access to affordable power to the Southeast.

    “This will in turn result in reduced power costs for the productive sector and enable them to improve productivity and generate jobs.

    “This is critical in this day where the country is pushing to boost production and drive-up exports to ultimately shore up our domestic currency.”

    The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NDPHC, Chiedu Ugbo, said the event was to provide an opportunity for the business community in the Southeast to interact with the Vice President.

    He said NDPHC is responsible for implementing the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) and operates a portfolio of gas thermal electricity generation assets in Nigeria.

    He lamented that the optimal utilisation of these assets has been hindered by technical challenges and market constraints.

    Speaking in Aba, Shittima said addressing erratic power supply remains top on President Tinubu’s policy agenda.

    Okonjo-Iweala seeks better regulatory environment

     Director General of the World Trade Organisation, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, called for a proper regulatory environment to ensure the success of power sector investments.

    She made the call in her goodwill message, sent virtually, at the inauguration of the Aba Integrated Power Project (IPP), Geometric Power Group.

    She explained that creating proper regulatory environments was needed to enable the country’s energetic private sector to follow the Aba IPP example and invest more in energy infrastructure.

    According to her, the Aba IPP is a great example of the type of private sector infrastructure investment needed in Nigeria.

    Read Also: Tinubu ready to return southeast as industrial powerhouse – Shettima

    “The benefits are truly significant, especially for the thousands of small and medium scale enterprises in Aba, including our well-known industrial market, Ariaria.

    “The nation will also benefit from the additional megawatts of power that Aba IPP will send to the national grid instead of being used in Aba.

    “The Aba IPP is totally funded by African capital, something we should all be proud of.”

    Okonjo-Iweala also said the expectation of establishing Aba IPP was to help stimulate other investments in manufacturing in the Aba area by providing reliable electricity.

    She added that another advantage of the IPP was that it makes use of the nation’s gas, a clean energy transition fuel that Nigeria is so fortunate to have in abundance.

    “There is really no reason why this country should have the majority of its households without power or have industries struggling when we have the basic energy transition fuel that other countries are yearning for.

    “Let me reiterate how excited I am that this thing has finally come,” she said.

  • Tinubu ready to return southeast as industrial powerhouse – Shettima

    Tinubu ready to return southeast as industrial powerhouse – Shettima

    Vice President Kashim Shettima on Monday, February 26, flagged off the Light Up Nigeria project in Enugu as part of federal government efforts to improve energy supply to industrial clusters in the southeast region.

    Shettima, who spoke during the Light up Nigeria Southeast Business Roundtable held in Enugu, also disclosed that President Bola Tinubu has vowed to return the southeast region as the nation’s industrial powerhouse.

    The launching of the project was done by the Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC) and its partners.

    The event was to launch an initiative to ensure dedicated power supply to industrial clusters across the country, with the southeast as a major bloc.

    Shettima described the project as a transformation journey and renewal of hope for industrialists and investors in the Southeast region

    He said: “I am pleased to witness the second launch of this strategic collaboration between the Niger Delta Power Holding Company and its invaluable customers. We gathered here to embark on a strategic journey for the light-up Nigeria in the Southeastern States.

    “This marks the renewal of hope for investors and industrialists. This is not a ribbon-cutting charade, this is a calculated endeavour to re-engineer our economy.

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    “The project serves as a long-awaited solution to the power supply that has undermined our economy over the past decades.

    “This intervention is a calculated endeavour to re-engineer our economy, oil the wheels of industries and stabilize our electricity supply industry. Power is a sinequanon for any industrial takeoff. No matter the efforts committed to industrial development, if there’s no power, there can be no industrialization.”

    Shettima added: “The economic fortune of Nigeria remains the critical concern of President Tinubu as we believe that if the power sector works, Nigeria works too. So we must make the project work and make Southeast work

    “The Southeast is an industrial powerhouse and its economic fortune remains a critical aspect of President Bola Tinubu. He wants Southeast to work again. If the southeast works, Nigeria works.

    “Some describe the Igbo as the Nigerian Jews; geographically mobile, economically enterprising and educationally ambitious. You have the hope of the nation, right in our midst. The hope of the nation rests with Ndigbo.”

    The vice president explained that the light-up project is dear to President Tinubu, whose determination is to improve power supply to in­dustrial clusters in the Southeast.

    Shettima, who assured that the project would soon be delivered, called on all stakeholders to join hands to ensure the success of the project.

    Governors of Anambra, Enugu, Imo, and Ebonyi States took their turn to address the audience.

    Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu state who virtually spoke on behalf of his colleagues said that the Light-Up Nigeria Project signals a new dawn for power and industrialization of the Southeast of the region, saying the initiative aligns with his administration’s disruptive approach to governance underpinned by thinking outside the box.

    Mbah, while commending the federal government and the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) for coming up with the project to ramp up power supply to industrial clusters in the Southeast, enjoined industrialists of the region to fully key into it and take advantage of the initiative to remove any bottlenecks they face regarding power availability.

    He said: “The Light up Nigeria Project today is, in my view, a new dawn for power in the Southeast and one of the most innovative initiatives in the power sector. This project is of critical importance since it deals with the power sector, which I believe is pivotal to economic growth. Indeed, if we fix power, a lot of other sectors would fall into place.

    “This project ensures efficient dispatch of power to the largest consumers via bilateral sales agreements, which overrides the existing bulk purchase arrangements through NBET, leveraging on a willing buyer, willing seller structure.

    “The programme will certainly bring improved access to affordable power to the Southeast. This will in turn result in reduced power costs for the productive sector and enable them to improve productivity and generate jobs. This is critical in this day where the country is pushing to boost production and drive-up exports to ultimately shore up our domestic currency.”

    He pledged his government’s continued support to industrialists and other private investors across the state to complement the undeniable boost that the Light-up Nigeria project would bring.

    The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Niger Delta Power Holding Company Ltd (NDPHC) Chiedu Ugbo, said the event was to provide an opportunity for the business community in the southeast zone to interact with the Vice President of Nigeria, adding that it marked the formal launch of the Southeast phase of the strategic collaboration between NDPHC and other project partners to provide steady and reliable electricity supply to industrial and business clusters across Nigeria.

    The initiatives, he said, demonstrated the commitment and determination of President Tinubu’s administration, working through NDPHC, to provide reliable and sustainable solutions to the electricity challenge in the country, starting with reliable and affordable supply to industries.

    He said: “The first event in this series took place on October 12, 2023, in Agbara, Ogun state, southwest Nigeria, where His Excellency engaged with the business community and committed to providing the required electricity to power businesses in industrial areas across the country through NDPHC.

    “Since then, significant progress has been made on the Agbara Project including identifying and signing on key industrial customers, conducting engineering surveys, negotiating transaction agreements, and procuring OEM/EPC providers for the required transmission and distribution projects.

    “Additionally, NDPHC has worked closely with the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and FGN Power Company to conduct engineering surveys, identify sites, and acquire a mobile transmission substation for the project.

    “TCN has approved the connection of the new substation to the national grid, and efforts are underway to deploy this fast-track transmission substation.

    “Today’s event builds on the commitment made by His Excellency at Agbara and will be replicated in other geopolitical zones across the country.”

    Ugbo disclosed that the NDPHC is responsible for implementing the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) and operates a portfolio of gas thermal electricity generation assets in Nigeria.

    He however lamented that the optimal utilization of these assets has been hindered by technical challenges and market constraints.

    “One major challenge is the lack of sufficient transmission and distribution infrastructure to transport power from the plants”, he said.

    He nevertheless assured Southeast governors and the business community that the Light up Nigeria project would have the dedicated and diligent attention of the team of NDPHC and its project partners devising creative and bankable solutions to addressing power supply challenges to industries in the zone.

    Some of the dignitaries in attendance were the governor of Imo State and the Chairman, of Southeast Governors’ Forum, Senator Hope Uzodinma; the governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mba; the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo and the Governor of Ebonyi State, Hon. Francis Nwifuru.

    Others were former governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha; former senate President Pius Anyim; Minister of power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu; the Chairman, Board of Directors, Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, (EEDC) Emeka Offor, among other dignitaries.

  • We must resolve border security lapsesto get national security right -Shettima

    We must resolve border security lapsesto get national security right -Shettima

    • Urges action on provision of social amenities to residents

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized the need to address the problem of poor border security in order to be able to solve the general security crisis facing the nation.

    Vice President Shettima, who stated this during a meeting with a delegation from the Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA), led by its Executive Secretary, Captain Junaid Abdullahi, at the State House, Abuja, also said the role of the agency in changing the nation’s security landscape.

    The Vice President, however, pledged the federal government’s action to secure and develop Nigeria’s border communities to improve the lives of residents and the security situation in the country.

    According to a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima, noted the challenges faced by these communities, including insecurity and lack of basic amenities.

    “Most of the challenges we face stem from our poor border security, evident in the free flow of light weapons and ammunition across the borders. We need to address the role of the BCDA in changing the security landscape of our country,” VP Shettima said.

    He stressed the importance of border communities in national security and pledged continued support for their development needs.

    Read Also: Tinubu, Shettima to attend APC Youth event

    The Vice President acknowledged the need for residents to feel a sense of belonging as Nigerians and assured of the government’s commitment to improving access to healthcare and other essential services for the residents of these communities.

    Shettima also urged the BCDA to develop a roadmap for strengthening the agency, highlighting the need for increased government funding.

    The agency’s Executive Secretary, Captain Abdullahi, acknowledged the challenges of limited resources and expressed hope that under Shettima’s leadership, the agency would receive the necessary support to fulfill its mandate.

    He said, “our border communities feel alienated from the rest of the country because of neglect. If we can get development into our border communities, the pressure on the centre will reduce. We would have reduced rural-urban migration and also addressed most of our security challenges.

    “Under your chairmanship, we believe that following your antecedent as Governor of Borno State, we are sure you will give us the needed support to see that our agency is funded to carry out its mandate.”

  • Shettima to flag-off Light up Southeast Initiate Monday

    Shettima to flag-off Light up Southeast Initiate Monday

    Vice President Kashim Shettima will on Monday, February, launch the Light Up South East Initiative to accelerate power supply to industrial clusters in the region. 

    This was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha. 

    The event, billed to be held in Enugu, the Enugu State capital, is in continuation of the ongoing efforts to improve energy supply to industrial clusters across the country. 

    The project, a collaboration between the Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC) and its partners, will feature key stakeholders in the nation’s power sector. 

    Read Also:Tinubu, Shettima to attend APC Youth event

    A key highlight of the Vice President’s engagement in Enugu on Monday will be the South East Business Roundtable featuring top government officials and business leaders deliberating on delivering reliable and sustainable power to industrial and residential areas in the region. 

    The Vice President had on October 12, 2023, flagged off the initiative in the South West at the Agbara Industrial Cluster, with stakeholders committing to the successful implementation of the project across the country.

    The Tinubu administration had from the onset committed to revamping Nigeria’s Infrastructure framework with the much-needed drive to empower Nigerians and strengthen the nation’s economic policies. 

    Similarly, the Vice President will on the same day commission the 181-megawatt Geometric Power plant in the Osisioma Industrial Layout, Aba, Abia State.