Shettima inaugurates Abdulsamad Rabiu International Centre in Maiduguri
Read Also: E-mobility deployment aligns withNigeria’s energy transition plan – Shettima
Tag: Shettima
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E-mobility deployment aligns withNigeria’s energy transition plan – Shettima
Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable and cleaner transportation.
He restated this commitment at the Presidential Villa as he inspected the solar powered charging stations for e-mobility domiciled in the State House, demonstrating Nigeria’s dedication to driving environmentally friendly alternatives.
Shettima highlighted Nigeria’s ambitious plans for an e-Mobility Strategy, designed to position the country as a pioneer in sustainable transportation on the African continent.
He said: “E-Mobility deployment aligns with the Nigeria Energy Transition Plan (ETP), addressing emissions, air pollution, and energy security concerns while ensuring a greener future for Nigerians.”
This commitment from Nigeria comes as the world anticipates the upcoming UN climate summit (COP28) in Dubai.
Read Also: Shettima lists education, skills development as panacea to poverty, hunger
Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP) supported by partners like Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) and the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) shows the transport sector contributing 28.4percent of emissions; with the ETP advocating for transitioning to low-emission transport technologies.
Nigeria’s federal government actively supports this transition which includes boosting local assembly capacity for electric vehicles, establishing charging infrastructure, and enabling private sector participation. Nigeria, through these initiatives, demonstrates its readiness to embrace cleaner and greener alternatives; and its energy transition journey is emblematic of the transformative potential of sustainable energy in shaping the future of African nations. As it looks ahead to COP28, the country seeks to leverage this momentum to attract global investments and foster partnerships for a cleaner and more energy-efficient future.
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Nigeria needs improved public-private infrastructure partnership for economic growth – Shettima
Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday, November 16, emphasized the importance of improved public-private infrastructure partnerships as critical catalysts for Nigeria‘s economic growth.
The vice president stated this in Abuja during the public presentation of two books authored by one of Nigeria’s prominent legal luminaries, Mallam Yusuf Ali (SAN).
According to a statement issued by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, the vice president recalled Tinubu’s legacies as governor of Lagos state, a feat he said the president is set to replicate at the national level in the bid to reposition the country.
Delivering his speech titled, “Mallam Yusuf Ali: Enduring Reflection in Law, History, and Public Policy,” the vice president stated: “There is, of course, no politician in the country today who can match President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s experience in both brokering public-private partnership and understanding what must be done to bridge our infrastructure gaps.
“You only need to gaze into the realities of Lagos State before and after his progressive leadership as Executive Governor to realise his spectacular legacy, a skill set he’s again brought into play to reposition Nigeria as a competitive global player.”
Noting that the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda “is built on the realisation of improved infrastructure as a critical catalyst for “the nation’s economic growth,” Shettima pointed out that the projections of the administration’s sound economic team on revolutionising investment in infrastructure were in tandem with those of its development partners.
“I am here to acknowledge that such a grand vision is the reason we are exploring innovative funding mechanisms like Public Private Partnerships, with avenues like the Infrastructure Concessions Regulatory Commission (ICRC) as testimony to such ambition. The on-going review of the ICRC (Establishment ETC) Act, 2005, is telling,” the VP stated.
The vice president described the two books, “The Supreme Court and the Jurisprudence of the Right to Fair Hearing,” and “Public Private Partnerships: An Essential Guide for Stakeholders,” unveiled today as an eagle-eyed contribution to the “nation’s pursuit of order and development.
“These books aren’t well-timed solely due to their thematic interests. They are not being celebrated solely for their interpretation of paramount aspects of our nation’s journey, nor for a yearning for such interventions in our collective responsibility to serve the nation. These two books stand out due to the intellectual and professional pedigree of the author,” he added.
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Referring to the author of the two books, Mallam Ali (SAN), as a friend and brother, VP Shettima also described the learned silk as a “reservoir of knowledge acquired over decades of sincere engagement with the legal intricacies of our dear nation.
“His decision to document these treasures of wisdom reflects a legacy that shall echo through the corridors of scholarship beyond the practice and learning of law,” he noted.
The VP further observed that the author was able to capture readers’ attention by recognising the need for a clearer perspective on collaborations between the public and private sectors.
He added: “Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit depends on our understanding of the complex interests of all parties involved in deals that do not disadvantage the nation. It’s crucial to ensure that we are not blinded by any legal requirements.
“It’s worth noting that one astute lawyer can bankrupt a country, but it also takes just one astute lawyer to save a nation. We have witnessed this, even in the recent case of Nigeria versus P&ID, which could have resulted in an unbelievable $11 billion arbitral award against us.”
Reviewing the book, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, said apart from the numerous contributions to knowledge by the author, the book offers an absorbing, interesting, and informative insight on the Supreme Court’s jurisprudence on the right to fair hearing in Nigeria.
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He noted that the book is a well-researched study focusing on the principles of fair hearing as laid down by the Supreme Court of Nigeria, adding that it is a must-read for not only lawyers and judges but also for all other stakeholders involved in the justice sector.
The other book on Public Private Partnerships in Nigeria, according to him, was written with the aim of providing stakeholders with the requisite knowledge and guidance regarding the operations and implementations of the Public-Private Partnerships initiative in Nigeria.
Dignitaries who graced the book launch included Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwola; Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) and National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Ganduje.
Others present at the event were former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mrs Patricia Etteh; Chief Judges of Kwara and Osun States; another learned silk, Chief Wale Olanikpekun (SAN); Justice Binta Nyako; Director General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Dr Joe Ohiani, billionaire businessman, Chief Tonye Cole, and Senator Kaka Lawan, among others.
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Shettima lists education, skills development as panacea to poverty, hunger
Vice President Kashim Shettima yesterday identified education and skills development as panacea for poverty and hunger.
Shettima spoke during a meeting with a delegation from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, led by the President of its Global Growth & Opportunity Division, Mr. Rodger Voorhies, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
According to a statement issued by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, the vice president underscored the impact of climate change on agricultural productivity and the urgent need to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices to ensure food security for Nigeria’s growing population.
He urged the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to forge a strategic partnership with the Nigerian government to enhance agricultural productivity, improved nutrition and strengthen the education sector.
The vice president also charged the Foundation to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s gender empowerment initiatives, noting that the programmes which are focused on the girl child are critical to Nigeria’s drive to alleviate poverty.
Shettima expressed appreciation for the foundation’s significant contributions to Nigeria, particularly in the areas of polio eradication and primary healthcare delivery.
Highlighting the need for continued support in the agricultural sector, he said: “We are investing heavily in agricultural innovation and best agricultural practices to enhance productivity. However, we need the expertise and resources of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to accelerate our progress.
Shettima stressed the importance of education and skills development in addressing poverty and hunger, just as he urged the foundation to collaborate with the Nigerian government in expanding access to quality education and further provide opportunities for skills development, particularly in the agricultural sector.
“By the end of the century, we are projected to be the most populous nation on earth. This demographic bulge can be transformed into a dividend or a disaster. Investing in education and skills development is crucial for ensuring that our growing population becomes a source of strength and not a burden.”
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Reiterating his call for a strong partnership between the Nigerian government and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Shettima expressed confidence that such a partnership could yield transformative results in addressing Nigeria’s agricultural, nutritional, and educational challenges, paving the way for a more prosperous and sustainable future for the nation.
“If a nation is not independent in food production, it remains a dependent nation. So, I am soliciting your partnership and attention. Join us in our drive towards combating poverty and hunger in sub-Saharan Africa as you did in Southeast Asia,” he added.
Mr Voorhies said he and his team were in the country to strengthen existing collaborations with Nigeria and also seek other areas of partnership with the new administration especially in priority sectors.
He commended the Tinubu administration’s agenda on food security and healthcare delivery while acknowledging the VP’s leadership and commitment to nutrition and agricultural transformation.
Voorhies assured of the foundation’s commitment and readiness to support efforts aimed at achieving set goals and objectives.
At the meeting were Jeremie Zoungrana, outgoing Country Director of the Foundation; Uche Amaonwu, Interim Country Director; Chief of Staff, Nutrition, Carol Welch; Senior Programme Officer, Agriculture, Audu Grema and Senior Programme Officer, Policy and Advocacy, Katja Schiller Nwator.
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Tinubu committed to improving lives of vulnerable Nigerians, says Shettima
- VP receives committee’s report on flood response harmonisation
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and improving the socio-economic conditions of Nigerians living in the most vulnerable communities in the country, Vice President Kashim Shettima said yesterday.
The Vice President spoke when the Presidential Committee on Flood Mitigation, Adaptation, Preparedness and Response submitted its report to him at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
A statement in Abuja by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity in the Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, said the committee’s report outlines a roadmap for improving the country’s flood response and preparedness.
At the formal presentation of the committee’s report, Shettima said: “Climate change is real and the existential threat it poses is glaring to us every day, from the extreme events being witnessed across the globe to the devastating climate facing Africa.
“Africa is disproportionately impacted and, bringing it home to Nigeria, we have been witnessing drought, flood, among others. The saying on the climate crisis is that it is either too much (floods), too little (drought) or too polluted.
“We are all gathered to find a solution for the ‘too much’ scenario that is flooding. Flood events have, in the past, affected communities with devastating impacts on livelihoods, people and the environment with loss of lives witnessed in some cases, such as the last flood witnessed in 2022.”
Describing the report as a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Vice President stressed that the current administration was focused on improving the socio-economic conditions of Nigeria’s most vulnerable communities.
He said in drafting the report, the committee was guided by science and forecasts from various agencies, such as the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
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The report, according to him, identifies vulnerable communities prone to flooding and presents a roadmap with recommendations to address the issue.
Praising the committee for its hard work and dedication, Shettima said: “I would like to start by thanking this committee for the hard work, commitment and dedication put in to develop the report.
“I particularly thank everyone for the time put in to deliver this assignment within the seven days that I directed when we first met at this very chamber, which meant you all had to work through the weekend. The mandate was clear and it was delivered.”
The Vice President directed the committee to present the report to the National Economic Council (NEC) for further deliberations and possible ascension by the council.
In his presentation, the Director General of the National Water Resources Institute, a member of the Presidential Committee and Chairman of the Technical Working Group, Prof. Emmanuel Adanu, said the ultimate objective of the report of the committee was “to protect the nation from the devastating impacts of floods, safeguarding human lives and property while promoting the sustainable conservation and enhancement of water-related ecosystems”.
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Tinubu committed to improving lives of vulnerable communities – Shettima
Vice-President Kashim Shettima has restated the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to improve the socio-economic conditions of Nigerians living in the most vulnerable communities.
Shettima stated this on Tuesday when the Presidential Committee on Flood Mitigation, Adaptation, Preparedness and Response submitted a comprehensive report to him at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the committee’s report outlined a roadmap for improving the country’s flood response and preparedness.
The report is based on the findings of three previous and ongoing assignments, including the National Economic Council Ad-hoc Committee Report on Flood (ongoing) and the National Flood Emergency, Preparedness and Response Plan (2022).
Others are the report of the Presidential Committee on Development of Comprehensive Plan of Action for Preventing Flood Disasters in Nigeria (2022).
Shettima, who gave a definite position to speculations about the reality or otherwise of the impact of climate change said, “Climate change is real and the existential threat it poses is glaring at us every day.
” From the extreme events being witnessed across the globe to the devastating climate facing Africa. Africa is disproportionately impacted and bringing it home to Nigeria, we have been witnessing drought, flood.
” The saying on the climate crisis is that it is either too much (floods), too little (drought) or too polluted. We are all gathered to find a solution for the too much scenario that is flooding.
” Flood events have, in the past, affected communities with devastating impacts on livelihoods, people and the environment with loss of lives witnessed in some cases such as the last flood witnessed in 2022.”
He described the report as a testament to Tinubu’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Shettima said that in drafting the report, the committee was guided by science and forecasts from agencies such as the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA).
The vice-president explained that the report identified vulnerable communities prone to flooding and presents a roadmap with recommendations to address the issue.
Shettima commended the committee for its hard work and dedication.
” I will like to start by thanking this committee for the hard work, commitment and dedication put in to develop the report.
” I particularly thank everyone for the time put in to deliver this assignment within the seven days that I directed when we first met at this very chamber, which meant you all had to work through the weekend.
” The mandate was clear and it was delivered,” Shettima said.
He directed the committee to present the report to the National Economic Council (NEC) for further deliberations and possible ascension by the council.
Earlier in his presentation, Prof. Emmanuel Adanu, a member of the presidential committee and Chairman of the Technical Working Group, identified the major causes of flooding in Nigeria and the strategies for mitigating its impact.
Adamu, who is the Director-General, National Water Resources Institute, said the ultimate objective of the committee was to protect the nation from the devastating impacts of floods, safeguard human lives and property.
He also said that committee was expected to promote the sustainable conservation and enhancement of water-related ecosystems.
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According to him, beyond the efforts of stakeholders in the public and private sectors, individuals and communities are required to pay attention to issues relating to drainage maintenance and healthy environmental practices.
Adamu said, ” We had lots of problems with flooding in Nigeria and we have lots of misconception too with the flooding outlook and certain incidences that had happened in Nigeria were blamed on certain things.
” One particularly is that most of the flooding we had in Nigeria used to come from Cameron which is totally false and we tried to explain it very well that it is not so.
” Because the water that come from outside Nigeria into Nigeria is just about 25 or less percent of the total rain or every water in Nigeria.
“So,most of the flooding that we see originate from within Nigeria due to high rainfall and the mobility of the water around drainage patterns, so we try to look at that.”
(NAN)
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Tinubu’s administration committed to Niger Delta development – Shettima
Vice President Kashim Shettima on Wednesday, November 8, reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s commitment towards the overall development of the Niger Delta as well as other parts of the country.
Shettima, who represented President Tinubu at the grand finale of the All Progressive Congress (APC) gubernatorial rally in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, ahead of Saturday’s election, noted that Bayelsa State, like every other state in Nigeria, remained dear to the visions and developmental focus of the Tinubu administration.
The Vice President revealed that a wholistic plan for the development of the Niger Delta and all parts of Nigeria in terms of infrastructure, technological advancements, education and harnessing of the bountiful resources has not only been mapped out but is being gradually laid out.
According to a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said: “My principal, our president is a man filled with vision, willpower and total commitment to the Nigerian project. He is unwavering and in a rush to ensure the speedy development of the Niger Delta and all other parts of the country.
“What we owe him is our support and loyalty for him to succeed. This is the more reason why all Bayelsans must come out on Saturday and rally round our party and candidate, Chief Timipre Sylva, who is your own and known for his tenacity for excellence. It is high time the people of Bayelsa State joined the government at the centre. The opportunity is here and the time is now.”
Also speaking at the event, National Chairman of the APC, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, described Sylva as a refined technocrat and politician who is committed to transforming and redefining the political, economic and developmental landscape of Bayelsa State.
On his part, the Bayelsa APC candidate, Chief Sylva, said given his track record of excellence and commitment to service, his blueprint is meticulously tailored towards total revamping of the fortunes of Bayelsa State.
Sylva, who pledged transparent utilization of resources of the state, said when elected, each and every part of the state will witness a transformation never imagined before, just as indigene and community participation in governance would be optimally held.
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The Vice President was earlier received on arrival in the state by Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, and some members of the Bayelsa State Executive Council.
In company of Sylva, he later proceeded to pay homage to Chairman of Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers’ Council and Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom in Yenagoa local government area, King Bubaraye Dakolo.
The Vice President was accompanied by the APC National Chairman; APC National Secretary, Senator Jibola Bashiru; Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni; Governor of Gombe State, Alh Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya,; APC Deputy National Chairman, Alh. Bukar Dalori; Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali, and former Governor of Imo State, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, among others.
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Shettima to give keynote address at 6th Diaspora Investment Summit
Vice President Kashim Shettima is expected to give the keynote address at the 6th Nigerians in Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS).
The summit is scheduled for 13 to 15 November 2023 in Abuja.
It was gathered that no fewer than 2,000 participants have indicated an interest in the 2023 Nigerian Diaspora Investment Summit.
NDIS is a private sector initiative supported by the Nigerian government through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), its primary aim is to demonstrate that in the face of stiff competition for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), targeting Nigerians in Diaspora for inward investment is probably the best strategy for a country like Nigeria with over 15m of its citizens gainfully domiciled in Diaspora.
Briefing journalists ahead of the summit, NiDCOM chairman, Abike Dabiri-Erewa said: “This year’s summit – a hybrid event enabling remote participation via online channels – is particularly special, being the first under the new administration of HE President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, and will have as its Special Guest of Honour and main keynote speaker, HE Senator Kashim Shettima GCON, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Also expected in attendance is the Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike amongst others.
She explained that the target of this administration is to ensure that Diaspora Investment in the country outweighs FDI in the near future.
Hence, she said this year’s summit aims at attracting Diasporan investment in the areas of agribusiness, technology, education, healthcare, real estate, and infrastructure. Others are creative, sports, and entertainment; energy, mining, and manufacturing.
She further explained that with the current happenings across the globe, Nigeria must rise to take its place as the number one producer of agricultural produce.
She stressed that Nigerian Diaspora in this drive remains a major player in the development of the country, hence the need to harness their investment in the country.
She said the summit is set to ignite new aspirations for Diaspora participation in Nigeria’s development.
“With Heifer International, a nonprofit charity on a mission to end hunger and poverty in a sustainable way as its Lead Sponsor, this year’s summit promises to be a significant milestone in promoting economic collaboration, harnessing opportunities, and fostering a revamped investment climate for Nigeria,” She added.
She also revealed that the Diaspora Housing Mortgage Scheme would be launched by the Honourable Minister, Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, during the summit.
On participation, NiDCOM boss said: “As at press time, this year’s summit already has registered, over 2,000 interested participants, including at least 72 identified Nigerian Diaspora investors, 196 small business owners, 148 representatives of private sector entities and 88 public officials from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies who are expected to attend in person, with a further 1,250 expected to participate virtually.”
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The Interim Country Director of Heifer International Nigeria, Lekan Tobe said: “NDIS has established itself as the premier platform for connecting Nigerians in the diaspora with opportunities for investment and engagement in the country’s burgeoning industries. NDIS 2023 aims to strengthen the bonds between Nigeria and its diaspora communities while revealing a dynamic view of investment opportunities and prospects in various sectors, particularly Agriculture, which is our focus sector.
“We feel that our goal of assisting more than two million households to achieve sustainable living income by 2030, through strategic private and public sector partnerships that will support the unlocking of the potential in Nigeria’s agricultural sector to achieve food self-sufficiency is fully aligned with that of the summit, as expressed through the NDIS initiative.”
Since its inception, NDIS has recorded many success stories, both in terms of business connections and social impact. With over 5,000 participants recorded, 900 business links were established and over 200 deals closed.
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Shettima seeks U.S govt’sassistance on food security
Vice President Kashim Shettima has sought the assistance of the United States Government on President Bola Tinubu administration’s food security agenda.
Shettima made the request when he met with Mr Cary Fowler, U.S Special Envoy for Global Food Security, as part of his schedules in the United States of America.
The vice president also identified key areas where Nigeria would require urgent support to overcome challenges in the agricultural sector.
”We seek the support of the United States Government, be it technical or otherwise, towards addressing challenges in our agricultural sector. Mechanisation is absolutely essential, good quality seeds, fertilization, improved agricultural practices, smart agriculture, these are the solutions we seek.
”Because the whole mantra is on increase in yield, it is about improving productivity. It goes beyond the acreage that is used for production. So, I am here surrounded by other stakeholders who have all the figures, facts and knowledge to make this partnership easy and smooth sailing.”
Shettima assured the U.S Special Envoy for Global Food Security of the readiness of the Tinubu administration to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to improve agricultural productivity across the Africa.
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He said Nigeria would sustain existing relationships with partners in the agricultural sector, adding the country would nurture the alliance.
”On the crop side, we are extremely concerned about climate change and its effect on Africa. So, this programme that we have with the AU and FAO is focused on Africa.”
He disclosed that the programme would look at indigenous African crops that have long suffered from massive underinvestment.
“We have established a multi-donor trust fund at the IFAD to provide long term funding for the programme and the USAID is also involved. The US government has allocated 100 million dollars to the programme,” he said.
He, however, emphasised that stakeholders need to work in a collaborative way with countries like Nigeria.
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Supreme Court: APC guber aspirant congratulates Tinubu, Shettima, calls for national unity
A former member of the House of Representatives and gubernatorial aspirant for the 2024 Ondo State election, Mayowa Akinfolarin, has extended his congratulations to President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima on the Supreme Court’s verdict, confirming their victory in the February 25, 2023, presidential election.
The Supreme Court had on Thursday, October 26, upheld the victory of President Bola Tinubu in the election.
The apex court, in its ruling, dismissed the appeals by the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, and his Labour Party counterpart, Peter Obi.
Akinfolarin in a statement applauded the verdict of the presidential petition tribunal.
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He said: “Today’s verdict of the Supreme Court, which affirms Asiwaju’s victory as the winner of the February 25, presidential election, is a confirmation of the people’s endorsement of the president’s leadership.
“I urge Nigerians of diverse cultures, religions, languages, political, social, and economic divides to come together for a common goal of nation-building.
“As a people, it is my conviction that we work together with mutual understanding, love, cooperation, and trust among ourselves. We must be united, tolerant, and have faith in our fatherland.”