The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine

Category: Press Release

  • [PRESS RELEASE] Murder of Ogbete Market Chairman: Enugu Police Operatives Arrest Two Suspects 

    [PRESS RELEASE] Murder of Ogbete Market Chairman: Enugu Police Operatives Arrest Two Suspects 

    Good morning, gentlemen of the press.

    On behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, psc (+), I warmly welcome you to the State Command Headquarters, GRA, Enugu, for this important press briefing. Today, we are here to share details of a significant breakthrough in the case involving the armed robbery and murder of Mr. Stephen Aniagu, the Chairman of the Ogbete Main Market Traders Association (OMMATA).

    As you will recall, on the evening of September 14, 2024, at approximately 8:20 p.m., armed criminals attacked and killed Mr. Aniagu at the Topland, along Amechi Road, Enugu. During the attack, the assailants also stole the blue-coloured Toyota Corolla car he was driving. The tragic incident sent shockwaves throughout the State and beyond, and the police immediately mobilized all necessary resources to track down the perpetrators.

    In response to this heinous crime, the Commissioner of Police ordered a comprehensive investigation, mobilizing both intelligence and operational assets of the Command, and to ensure that the criminals responsible were apprehended and brought to justice.

    You will also recall that the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mba, swiftly directed the state security forces to intensify efforts and ensure that all those involved in this crime are apprehended and held accountable.

    Consequently, through diligent intelligence work and coordinated efforts between Police Detectives of the Anti-Robbery Section (D9) of the State CID and Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad of the Command, the police arrested two male suspects involved in the crime on November 8 and 9, 2024, respectively. The suspects include: Chukwudi Aboshi, a 28-year-old native of Anike in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, and Ani Innocent Ebuka (a.k.a. “Excellent”), a driver and native of Isigwe-Ugbawka in Nkanu East Local Government Area, were arrested in Akwuke, Awkunanaw, in Enugu South LGA of Enugu State.

    During interrogation, both suspects confessed to their active involvement in the crime. They provided detailed accounts of how they attacked Mr. Aniagu, snatched his vehicle, and similarly shot another male driver severally at the same location on the night of the murder, snatching his Toyota Corolla as well. Fortunately, he is stable and undergoing treatment.

    Furthermore, the suspects confessed to having committed several other crimes, stating that their criminal camp was in a forest at Mmaku in Awgu LGA. They also mentioned the following names at large as members of their criminal gang and who were actively involved in the perpetration of the crimes:

    Obinna Nnamani (male), of Ndiagu Ogbo-Ezinne, Akpugo in Nkanu West LGA;

    Miracle (male, other names unknown, but has the nickname “C-C” or “White”), of Mmaku community in Awgu LGA;

    Okoro Chisom (male), of Ihie community in Awgu LGA,

    Israel (male, other names and nativity unknown);

    Pius Anoja (male, a.k.a “Ezeobo” and the Chief Priest of criminal group), of Mmaku community in Awgu LGA;

    Mosquito (male, real names unknown), of Mmaku community in Awgu LGA;

    Anunti (male, real names unknown), of Mmaku community in Awgu LGA; and

    Iyangbakwu (male, real names unknown), of Akegbe-Ugwu community in Nkanu West LGA.

    The suspects are assisting the police in the ongoing investigations to apprehend the mentioned accomplices on the run, and to recover the stolen vehicles and tools used to commit these crimes. One (1) Tecno Android phone, snatched from a victim in the crimes, and objects suspected to charms were recovered from them.

    Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police has reaffirmed the commitment of the Enugu State Police Command to apprehend all individuals connected to these crimes. He assures the public that the police will continue in its efforts to dismantle criminal gangs, particularly those involved in violent crimes. He stressed that the Command will maintain its aggressive stance against criminals and to ensure the safety and security of the good people of Enugu State.

    Finally, CP Kanayo extends his appreciation to the Enugu State Government, under the proactive leadership of Dr. Peter Mba, for its unwavering support to the police and other security agencies in the State. He also lauds the good people of Enugu State, urging them to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and continue to support the police in maintaining peace, law, and order in our beloved Enugu State.

    Thank you, and may God bless you all.

    DSP DANIEL NDUKWE, anipr, mnisma

    Police Public Relations Officer,

    Enugu State Command.

    November 15, 2024.

  • [PRESS STATEMENT] Ohaneze Thanks Nigerians For Support, Solidarity During Funeral of Iwuanyanwu 

    [PRESS STATEMENT] Ohaneze Thanks Nigerians For Support, Solidarity During Funeral of Iwuanyanwu 

    The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide expresses profound gratitude to Nigerians for the uncommon solidarity with the Igbo during the funeral ceremonies of the Igbo Leader, Chief Engr. Dr. Emmanauel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu MFR, OFR, CFR, FNSE, GCSI, FNIST, FNICE, KSC (Ahaejiagamba Ndigbo), the former President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.

    We deeply appreciate His Excellency Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for sending a Federal Government delegation led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, His Excellency, Sen. George Akume; the Senate President, His Excellency, Godswill Akpabio, GCON for sending a Senate delegation led by Sen. Eyinnaya Abaribe; the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu and the NASS team; HE, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR; HE, Dr. Goodluck Ebele & Patience Jonathan, GCFR; HE Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR; HE Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe, GCON & Mrs Amina Ukiwe; HE Emeka Anyaoku, GCON; HE Professor Mrs.Uche Azikiwe; HE Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu;

    We lack the appropriate words to thank the South East Governors Forum led by HE, Sen. Hope Uzodimma, CON, the Governor of Imo State. Other members of the Forum include HE Dr. Alex Otti, OFR; the Governor of Abia State; HE, Professor Charles Soludo, CFR, the Governor of Anambra State; HE, Dr. Peter Mbah, the Governor of Enugu State and HE Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, the Governor of Ebonyi State.

    The following dignitaries were very awesome in special ways; HE Babajide Sanwo-Olu; HE Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of Rivers State; HE Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori,
    the Governor of Delta State; HE Mr. Peter Obi, CON; HE Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha; HE Achike Udenwa, CON; HE Chief Rochas Anayo Okorocha, CON; Professor Bart Nnaji, CON; HE Sen. Dave Umahi, CON; Rear Admiral Allison Madueke, GCON; Gen. Ike Nwachukwu, CFR; HE Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, CON; HE Chief Mrs. Chinyere Ekomaru and her husband, Chief Chukwuma Ekomaru, SAN; HE Sen. Pius Anyim, GCON; HE, Sen. Ken Nnamani, GCON, HE Sen Adolphus Wabara, PhD; the All Progressive Congress (APC) led by HE. Abdullahi Ganduje, OFR; the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Sen. Sam Daddy Anyanwu; HE Sen. Chris Ngige, CON; Professor Anya O Anya, OFR; Chief Nnia Nwodo, HE Sen. Sam Egwu; Chief SN Okeke, OFR; Chief Chekwas Okorie; Sen. Ned Nwoko, Sen. Osita Izunaso, Sen. Anthony Agbo; the Aka Ikenga Lagos, led by Engr Chike Madueke; Sen. Chris Anyanwu, MFR; Chief Fank Nneji, the Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla; Lt Gen. Azubike Ihejirika, Rtd; Iyom Josephine Anenih, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, OFR; HE Dr. Mrs Kema Chikwe, Ambassador Tom Aguiyi Ironsi, Ambassador Greg Mbadiwe, Dr. A BC Orjiakor, Engr. Ernest Nwapa, High Chief Engr. John Chukwu, Chief Johnson Chukwu and many others too numerous to mention.

    The members of the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum led by Chief Edwin Clark, CON have shown an eternal fidelity; especially Ambassador Godknows Igali, Dr. Ken Robinson, Dr. Alfred Mulade, Dr. Joseph Edet, Chief Dr. Ominimimi Obiuwevbi; the Middle Belt Leaders led by Dr Pogu Bitrus; the Afenifere led by Chief Ayo Adebanjo and represented by His Royal Highness Oba Oladipo Olaitan, Chief Sola Ebiseni, Chief Supo Shonibare; the Arewa Consultative Forum led by Mamman Mike Osuman, OFR.

    The Clergy, the Laity and the Choir, of the Anglican Communion, Church of Nigeria led by the Primate of All Nigeria, the Most Rev’d Dr. Henry Ndukuba were awesome at all the various Service of Songs in Lagos, Abuja, Enugu, Owerri and the burial service at Atta, Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State. We recall with deep attachment the services rendered by His Grace, Professor Emmanuel O. Chukwuma (OON), the Emeritus Archbishop of the Enugu Ecclesiastical Province; Most Rev. Dr.Blessing Enyindah, the Archbishop of Niger Delta Province; Most Rev Dr.David Onuoha, the Archbishop of Owerri Province; His Eminence, Dr. Kalu Sam Uche, the Emeritus Prelate of the Methodist Church; Rt. Rev. Osondu Ekweremadu, among others.

    We extend our gratitude to the Diplomatic Missions of the USA, UK, China, and several others; the Alumni Association, University of Nigeria; the Nigerian Society of Engineers; the 34 Artillery Brigade Obinze, Owerri; the Imo State Police Command; the Speaker and Members of the Imo State House of Assembly; the Imeobi Ohanaeze, National Executive Committee (NEC) and all the structures of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide; the Association of the South East Town Unions led by Chief Emeka Diwe and Umuada Igbo Nigeria and Diaspora led by Dr. Mrs Kate Ezeofor.

    We are obliged to the Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council and the Chairman of the South East Traditional Rulers Council, His Royal Highness, Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu; the Imo State Elders Council led by His Majesty Eze Cletus Ilomuanya; His Royal Highness, Ambassador LOC Agubuzu, CON; Eze Ibe Nwosu, Igbo 1 of Abuja; His Majesty, Eze Okeke and Ndi Eze Lagos State.

    Our gratitude goes to the members of the National Burial Committee led by Sen. Ben. Ndi Obi, CON and his deputy, Prince Garry Igariwey for their exceptional commitment and dedication towards the success of the events leading to the burial of Ahaejiagamba. The leadership of the sub committees and the LOCs were in their best elements. We recall with freshness the critical roles played by Iyom Sen. Dr. Uche Ekwunife, the DG South East Governors Forum. Others we cannot forget in a hurry include Chief Dr.Chika Okafor, OON; Prof Okey Ikechukwu, Dame Rita Mbah, Ambassador Ozo Nwobu, Ambassador Dr. Humphrey Orjiako, Dr. Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia, Chief Sam Obaji, Prince Charles Amadi, Mrs Mary Ikoku, Prof. Charles Nwekeaku,Chief Jerry Chukwueke, Chief Everest Ozonweke, Monday Diamond Ani, amongst others.

    It is on record that almost all the sons and daughters of means from Igbo Land travelled from the USA, UK, the far-flung and near to pay their last respects; to them and indeed all the numerous Nigerians whose names, for want of space, cannot be accommodated, we say thank you.
    The press rendered unflinching services from the very day the Igbo Leader transited to the day of Interment. We are indeed very grateful.
    To the wife, children and the immediate family of Chief Iwuanyanwu, we urge them to take solace in the sterling legacies that characterise the Igbo Leader, bearing in mind that Ahaejiagamba- a name that, when mentioned, opens the way- lives on.

    May God Almighty shower his blessings on each and every one who played roles during the burial rites of the late Igbo Leader.

    E-Sign:

    Ambassador Okey Emuchay, MFR

    Secretary General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.

  • [PRESS STATEMENT] APC Accuses Rotimi Amaechi of Inciting Anarchy, Says It’s “Irresponsible, Unpatriotic”

    [PRESS STATEMENT] APC Accuses Rotimi Amaechi of Inciting Anarchy, Says It’s “Irresponsible, Unpatriotic”

    From the lavish comfort of his “proverbial glass house”, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, former Minister of Transport and Governor of Rivers state, in a recent interview, berated Nigerian youth for not protesting “high cost of living” in the country to his morbid satisfaction.

    Amaechi’s comments are insensitive, god-awful and unpatriotic, coming from one of Nigeria’s longest serving and highest ranking political freeloaders – a two-term Speaker of the Rivers state House of Assembly, a two-term Governor, and a two-term Minister of Transport.

    For almost all of his adult life, Amaechi, has been a leechy dependant on state resources, a voracious beneficiary of official patronage, and a leading participant in the generational devastation of our country’s economy. Attempting to hoodwink Nigerians into his web of false empathy and incitement to violence is hypocritical, provocative and dangerous.

    If those in power “steal money” as Amaechi mischievously alleged, how come he can’t afford “to buy diesel” barely two years after “stealing” for over 24 years in power as Speaker, Governor and Minister?

    The only real anger that Amaechi and his fellow tribesmen of naysayers of the likes of Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, must feel is that they are not in the saddle of government today. But that was a decision made by Nigeria’s ultimate political authority – the electorate. Nigerians are highly perceptive, discerning, demure, and mindful that economic discomforts associated with the administration’s inevitable reforms are transient and will pale into insignificance in comparison to the enduring transformative dividends which are already beginning to manifest. Nigerians will not be cajoled into taking back through street violence what they handed to the administration through the ballot, as Amaechi and his partisan tribesmen would wish.

    It is nauseating to think that these naysayer tribesmen who did absolutely nothing to improve the economy or living conditions for Nigerians while they were in office, now pontificate, endlessly, about what and how things should be done but didn’t and couldn’t do while in power.

    It’s as though they only regain their senses and discover their talents for governance when they are out of power. A tribe of naysayers, is what they are, who never see any good, only gloom, filled with bile and disdain for the determined strides of APC-administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to transform our country’s economy for the benefit of present and future generations of Nigerians.

    One would expect Amaechi to keep busy trying to solve the crippling crisis in Rivers state that he once governed. Instead, he has chosen to stoke anarchy on a national scale. Weaponizing protest and exploiting citizen’s economic discomfort for selfish political objective, as these partisan tribesmen are doing, is irresponsible and decidedly unpatriotic.

    We urge Nigerians to dismiss the call to anarchy by Amaechi and his partisan tribesmen and to remain patient and continue to support President Tinubu’s bold effort to transform our country’s economy once and for all.

    Signed:
    Felix Morka, Esq.
    National Publicity Secretary
    All Progressives Congress (APC)

  • FG Refutes Claims of Neglect of North in Road Projects [PRESS RELEASE]

    FG Refutes Claims of Neglect of North in Road Projects [PRESS RELEASE]

    RENEWED HOPE ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS IN FAIR DISTRIBUTION ACROSS THE 6-GEOPOLITICAL ZONES

    The attention of the Federal Ministry of Works has been drawn to a misleading and mischievous publication by Muhammad Jamil, also known as Jadda Garko, who, without recourse to facts, figures nor records, decided to blindly allege that the Northern Region was neglected in the distribution of the ongoing Renewed Hope Agenda road projects being executed by the Ministry.

    2. For the records, the Federal Ministry of Works has continued to work diligently, transparently, and fairly in implementing the distribution of the ongoing road and bridge infrastructure interventions, nationwide. This applies to both the projects funded through budgetary provisions and other funding models such as the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Fund, SUKUK, Tax Credit Scheme in financing the Renewed Hope Legacy Road Projects, inherited ongoing projects and the emergency intervention ones.

    3. The Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. (Engr.) Nweze David Umahi, CON, FNSE, FNATE has commendably and unprecedentedly stepped up project monitoring and supervision mechanisms on these projects spread across the six (6) geo-political zones, and Nigerians can attest to the fact that every zone has its fair share in the distribution of the ongoing projects.

    4. Facts and figures show that out of a total of 2,735km of the Legacy Projects initiated by the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the North has a cumulative total of 1,414km, while the South has 1,321km amounting to a percentage ratio of 52:48 respectively. Furthermore, out of eighty-two (82) Sukuk-funded ongoing projects, the North has forty-five (45), while the South has 37 projects. Of the 260 emergency projects, 98 are being executed in the South, while 108 numbers are in the South. Additionally, out of the 44 road projects executed under the Road Tax Credit Scheme, 23 are domiciled in the North, while 21 numbers are in the South.

    5. To further illustrate the sense of fairness in the treatment of all parts of Nigeria by the Renewed Hope administration, at the last Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting of 23rd September, 2024, it approved the construction of 258 km 3-lane carriageway using continuously reinforced concrete pavement in Kebbi and Sokoto States – part of the 1,000km Sokoto – Badagry Superhighway, completion of the construction of the Bodo-Bonny Road with bridges across the Opobo Channel in Rivers State, the rescoping and downward review of the contract to rehabilitate the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Dual Carriageway, the construction of Cross River to Oferekpe road and the rehabilitation of Kabba (Kogi State) – Iyamoye-Omuo-Ikole-Ifaki-Ado Ekiti (Ekiti State) road, the repair of the Gamboru Bridge along Gamboru-Ngala-Kala Balde road in Borno State, the repair of the damaged loops and ramps of the Third Mainland Bridge Superstructure, the rehabilitation of Adeniji-Falomo roads, the construction of service lanes for the Lekki Deep Sea Port through Epe to Shagamu-Benin Expressway, the dualisation of Afikpo-Uturu-Okigwe Road in Ebonyi, Abia and Imo states, and the repair of 14 bridges, roads, and flooded sections of Federal Highways nationwide. The distribution of the aforementioned approved projects shows, as always, that fairness is a fundamental principle in the Renewed Hope agenda of Mr. President.

    6. The Ministry of Works has achieved a considerable milestone in the execution of critical projects in the North such as the construction and expansion of Mararaba – Keffi road (43.65km), the construction of Lafia Bypass both in Nasarawa State and the Dualisation of 9th Mile (Enugu State) –Otukpo – Makurdi road project (phase ii) in Nasarawa, Benue and Enugu State, the rehabilitation of Abuja – Abaji – Lokoja Road, Abuja – Lokoja Road, Kano – Maiduguri Dual Carriageway, Adamawa – Taraba Single Carriageway, Adamawa – Borno Single Carriageway, Kaduna-Jos Single Carriageway, Zaria-Funtua – Gusau -Sokoto Dual Carriageway and the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road. The Honourable Minister has not only visited these projects but has also set up a supervision mechanism to ensure quality and speed in the execution of the projects.

    7. The Ministry is, undoubtedly, committed to applying the tenets of fairness, justice, equity, and good conscience in the distribution and execution of road infrastructure projects. The Minister has proven stewardship of passion, professionalism, inclusiveness and an abiding devotion to nation-building. It is only persons of narrow minds or with cheap and ulterior motives that can be so petty as to engage in such unprovoked and mischievous misrepresentation of facts as contained in the said publication credited to Jadda Garko, described as a singer and politician.

    8. Members of the public are hereby enjoined to discontenance the allegations in the said publication, as it is baseless, unfounded, mendacious and calculated to demean the person of the Honourable Minister of Works for the personal gains of the sponsors.

    M. A. Ahmed,
    Director, Press and Public Relations.
    3rd October, 2024.

  • FOR THE RECORD: Better Days Are Ahead Of Us [Full Text of Tinubu’s 64th Independence Broadcast]

    FOR THE RECORD: Better Days Are Ahead Of Us [Full Text of Tinubu’s 64th Independence Broadcast]

    TEXT OF NATIONAL BROADCAST BY PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU ON THE 64TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA OCTOBER 1, 2024  

    Fellow Nigerians, as I address you today, I am deeply aware of the struggles many of you face in these challenging times. Our administration knows that many of you struggle with rising living costs and the search for meaningful employment. I want to assure you that your voices are heard.

    As your President, I assure you that we are committed to finding sustainable solutions to alleviate the suffering of our citizens. Once again, I plead for your patience as the reforms we are implementing show positive signs, and we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel.

    Exactly 64 years ago, our founding fathers chose democracy as a form of government and launched the dream of a great country that would lead the rest of Africa out of poverty, ignorance, and underdevelopment, a beacon of hope to the rest of Africa and the world.

    Over six decades later, we can look back, and Nigerians worldwide can see how well we have succeeded in realising the lofty dreams of our founding fathers.

    The world is witnessing and benefiting from the can-do spirit of the Nigerian people, our massive intellectual capacity, and our enterprise and industry in all vocations, from arts to science, technology to infrastructure. The dreams that our founding fathers envisaged are still a work in progress. Every day, we put our hands on the plough, determined to do a better job of it.

    While it is tempting to focus on what has been left undone and where we have stumbled as a nation, we must never lose sight of how far we have come in forging and holding our country together.

    Since independence, our nation has survived many crises and upheavals that led to the dissolution and disintegration of many other nations worldwide. Six years after independence, our country descended into a political crisis that led to a bitter and avoidable civil war. Since returning from the brink of that darkest moment, we have learned to embrace our diversity and manage our differences better as we continue to work towards engendering a more perfect union.

    Despite the many challenges that buffeted our country, we remain a strong, united, and viable sovereign nation.

    Dear compatriots, our independence anniversary gives us another chance to reflect on how far we have gone in our journey to nation-building and to renew our commitment to building a better nation that will serve present and future generations of Nigerians.

    While we celebrate the progress we have made as a people in the last sixty-four years, we must also recognise some of our missed opportunities and mistakes of the past. If we are to become one of the greatest nations on earth, as God has destined us to be, our mistakes must not be allowed to follow us into the future.

    My administration took over the leadership of our country 16 months ago at a critical juncture. The economy faced many headwinds, and our physical security was highly impaired. We found ourselves at a dizzying crossroads, where we must choose between two paths: reform for progress and prosperity or carry on business-as-usual and collapse. We decided to reform our political economy and defence architecture.

    On the security front, I am happy to announce to you, my compatriots, that our administration is winning the war on terror and banditry. Our target is to eliminate all the threats of Boko Haram, banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and the scourge of all forms of violent extremism. Within one year, our government has eliminated Boko Haram and bandit commanders faster than ever. As of the last count, over 300 Boko Haram and bandit commanders have been eliminated by our gallant troops in the Northeast, Northwest, and some other parts of the country.

    We have restored peace to hundreds of communities in the North, and thousands of our people have been able to return home. It is an unfinished business, which our security agencies are committed to ending as quickly as possible. As soon as we can restore peace to many communities in the troubled parts of the North, our farmers can return to their farms. We expect to see a leap in food production and a downward spiral in food costs. I promise you, we shall not falter on this.

    Our government has been responding to the recent natural disasters, particularly the flooding in parts of the country. After Vice President Kashim Shettima visited Maiduguri, I also visited to assure our people that this federal government will always stand with our people in their times of trouble. At the last meeting of the Federal Executive Council, we approved a Disaster Relief Fund to mobilise private and public sector funds to help us respond faster to emergencies.

    Our government has also ordered integrity tests of all our dams in the country to avert future disasters.

    The economy is undergoing the necessary reforms and retooling to serve us better and more sustainably. If we do not correct the fiscal misalignments that led to the current economic downturn, our country will face an uncertain future and the peril of unimaginable consequences.

    Thanks to the reforms, our country attracted foreign direct investments worth more than $30 billion in the last year.

    Fellow compatriots, our administration is committed to free enterprise, free entry, and free exit in investments while maintaining the sanctity and efficacy of our regulatory processes. This principle guides the divestment transactions in our upstream petroleum sector, where we are committed to changing the fortune positively. As such, the ExxonMobil Seplat divestment will receive ministerial approval in a matter of days, having been concluded by the regulator, NUPRC, in line with the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA. This was done in the same manner as other qualified divestments approved in the sector.

    The move will create vibrancy and increase oil and gas production, positively impacting our economy.

    The more disciplined approach adopted by the Central Bank to monetary policy management has ensured stability and predictability in our foreign exchange market. We inherited a reserve of over $33 billion 16 months ago. Since then, we have paid back the inherited forex backlog of $7 billion. We have cleared the ways and means debt of over N30 trillion. We have reduced the debt service ratio from 97 per cent to 68 per cent. Despite all these, we have managed to keep our foreign reserve at $37 billion. We continue to meet all our obligations and pay our bills.

    We are moving ahead with our fiscal policy reforms. To stimulate our productive capacity and create more jobs and prosperity, the Federal Executive Council approved the Economic Stabilisation Bills, which will now be transmitted to the National Assembly. These transformative bills will make our business environment more friendly, stimulate investment and reduce the tax burden on businesses and workers once they are passed into law.

    As part of our efforts to re-engineer our political economy, we are resolute in our determination to implement the Supreme Court judgment on the financial autonomy of local governments.

    The central concern of our people today is the high cost of living, especially food costs. This concern is shared by many around the globe as prices and the cost of living continue to rise worldwide.

    My fellow Nigerians, be assured that we are implementing many measures to reduce the cost of living here at home.

    I commend the Governors particularly, in Kebbi, Niger, Jigawa, Kwara, Nasarawa, and the Southwest Governors that have embraced our agricultural production programme. I urge other states to join the Federal Government in investing in mechanised farming. We are playing our part by supplying fertilizer and making tractors and other farm equipment available. Last week, the Federal Executive Council approved establishing a local assembly plant for 2000 John Deere tractors, combine harvesters, disc riders, bottom ploughs and other farm equipment. The plant has a completion time of six months.

    Our energy transition programme is on course. We are expanding the adoption of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas for mass transit with private sector players. The Federal Government is ready to assist the thirty-six States and FCT in acquiring CNG buses for cheaper public transportation.

    Fellow Nigerians, while we are working to stabilise the economy and secure the country, we also seek to foster national unity and build social harmony and cohesion. Our economy can only thrive when there is peace.

    As we work to overcome the challenges of the day, we remain mindful of the next generation as we seek to galvanize their creative energy towards a better future. We lead today with the future we wish to bequeath to our children in focus, recognizing that we cannot design a future that belongs to them without making them its architects.

    Considering this, I am pleased to announce the gathering of a National Youth Conference. This conference will be a platform to address the diverse challenges and opportunities confronting our young people, who constitute more than 60 per cent of our population. It will provoke meaningful dialogue and empower our young people to participate actively in nation-building. By ensuring that their voices are heard in shaping the policies that impact their lives, we are creating a pathway for a brighter tomorrow.

    The 30-day Confab will unite young people  nationwide to collaboratively develop solutions to issues such as education, employment, innovation, security, and social justice. The modalities of this Confab and selection of delegates will be designed in close consultation with our young people through their representatives. Through this confab, it will be our job as leaders to ensure that their aspirations are at the heart of the conference’s deliberations. The government will thoroughly consider and implement the recommendations and outcomes from this forum as we remain resolute in our mission to build a more inclusive, prosperous, and united Nigeria.

    Our government is implementing several other youth-centric programmes to give our young people an advantage in the rapidly changing world. We are implementing, amongst others, the 3 million Technical Talents programme (3MTT) of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, aimed at building Nigeria’s technical talent backbone.

    We have also enthusiastically implemented the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which provides cheap loans to our students to pursue their tertiary educational dreams. In addition, later this month, we shall launch The Renewed Hope Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP). It is conceived as a comprehensive suite of interventions at job creation by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment that is aimed at facilitating the creation of 2.5 million jobs, directly and indirectly, on an annual incremental basis whilst simultaneously ensuring the welfare and safety of workers across the country.

    As is the tradition, the government will soon announce all the beneficiaries of our national honours for 2024.

    The Senate President and the Chief Justice of the Federation have been conferred with the honour of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON). The Deputy Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives have the honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), while the Deputy Speaker of the House has been awarded Commander of the Order of Niger (CON) .

    Fellow Nigerians, better days are ahead of us. The challenges of the moment must always make us believe in ourselves. We are Nigerians—resilient and tenacious. We always prevail and rise above our circumstances.

    I urge you to believe in our nation’s promise. The road ahead may be challenging, but we will forge a path toward a brighter future with your support. Together, we will cultivate a Nigeria that reflects the aspirations of all its citizens, a nation that resonates with pride, dignity, and shared success.

    As agents of change, we can shape our destiny and build a brighter future by ourselves, for ourselves and for future generations.

    Please join our administration in this journey towards a brighter future. Let us work together to build a greater Nigeria where every citizen can access opportunities and every child can grow up with hope and promise.

    May God continue to bless our nation and keep members of our armed forces safe.

    Happy Independence anniversary, my fellow Nigerians!

    -President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

  • Rotary District 9142 Condoles with Akwa Ibom Governor Over Wife’s Death

    PRESS STATEMENT

    CONDOLENCE MESSAGE

    Rotary International, District 9142 received with rude shock the sudden and untimely death of Pastor Mrs Patience Umo Eno, wife of Governor, Akwa Ibom State, a distinguished Rotarian.

    Until her death, the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State was a devout Christian, an advocate of Women Rights, an ever willing helper to the needy and less privileged, as her true philanthropy knew no bounds. The State of Akwa Ibom is mourning.

    The leadership and members of the Rotary family in District 9142, join His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, his immediate family and Akwa Ibomites in this period of mourning and grief. We send our condolences and pray that the Good Lord will give them the grace and fortitude to go through this very trying and difficult time.

    We take solace in the fact that given the type of life that Pastor Patience lived, our loss is

    heaven’s gain, as she had gone to swell the tribe of Saints.

    Au. Nnonyelu,

    District Governor, District 9142

  • “Unexpected Sunset” – Akwa Ibom Governor’s Wife is Dead

    “Unexpected Sunset” – Akwa Ibom Governor’s Wife is Dead

    Press Release
    UNEXPECTED SUNSET

    It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of the Wife of the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Her Excellency, Pastor Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, following an illness. She passed away peacefully at the hospital, on 26th September, 2024, in the presence of her family.

    The family submits to the will of the Almighty and asks for the prayers and support of kind-hearted individuals during this difficult time. Further details will be provided by the family as necessary. In the meantime, the family kindly requests privacy as they mourn their beloved wife, mother and grandmother.

    His Excellency, the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno appreciates all who have stood by the first family in this period and assures all the citizens that despite this huge personal loss, his commitment to the service of the state is unwavering.

    Signed:

    Comrade Ini Ememobong
    Honourable Commissioner for Information
    27.09.2024

  • Ebonyi: Gov. Nwifuru Approves Appointment of New Permanent Secretaries [PRESS RELEASE]

    Ebonyi: Gov. Nwifuru Approves Appointment of New Permanent Secretaries [PRESS RELEASE]

    PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

    Following the results of the Selection Committee for the appointments of Permanent Secretaries, the Governor of Ebonyi State , His Excellency Rt. Hon . Bldr. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has approved the appointments of the following as Permanent Secretaries:.

    ABAKALIKI LGA
    * Dr. Ezeogo Lawrence M.

    * Barr. Nwede Samuel

    * Dr. Simon Idenyi

    AFIKPO LGA
    * Dr. Mrs Arunne Isioma .C Inyang

    * Ibe Rose Ugwuoma

    EBONYI LGA
    * Dr. Mrs Alo Linda

    * Anwu Theresa N

    * Nwobashi P. Ogechi

    EZZA NORTH
    * Uhuo Cajetan N

    * Igwe Antonia Ogechi

    EZZA SOUTH
    * Henry Onyebuchi N.

    * Ede Peter Afoke

    IKWO LGA
    * Dr. Mrs Ngozi Nwode

    * Alobu I. Israel

    IVO LGA
    * Obasi Bridget Nnenna.

    * Mbazu Shulamite

    OHAOZARA
    * Obiessie Hillary Ogbonna

    * Njoku Matilda

    * Mr. Onu Nweze

    OHAUKWU LGA
    * Odo Gabriel O

    * Onwe Emmanuel N

    ONICHA LGA
    * Okpara Ogbonnaya

    * Dr. Mrs. Joy Umoke

    The appointees will be sworn-in on Tuesday October 1 , 2024

    Time : 10 am

    Venue: Governor’s Office, Ochoudo Centenary City, Abalaliki

    They are to be seated by 9:30am

    Dr. Monday Uzor
    Chief Press Secretary to the Governor

  • 58th Birthday: Shelve birthday adverts on dailies, donate to vulnerable Nigerians – VP Shettima to well-wishers

    58th Birthday: Shelve birthday adverts on dailies, donate to vulnerable Nigerians – VP Shettima to well-wishers

    PRESS RELEASE

    On Monday, September 2, 2024, His Excellency, Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, will turn 58 years old. This exceptional day marks another landmark moment for him to reflect and gauge how much ground he has covered in the course of his stewardship to the nation and its people, as a leader and public servant.

    As it is always the tradition on special days such as this, it is not unexpected that family members, friends and associates would want to make the day a remarkable one for him-celebrating his dedication to excellence, compassion in leadership, and commitment to teamwork in the bid to drive the nation to success and growth.

    However, the Vice President will not want an elaborate pageantry marking the day.

    Accordingly, he has appealed to his fellow compatriots, associates and numerous well-wishers across the country to resist the desire to place congratulatory birthday advertisements on pages of newspapers or utilise paid channels to convey their wishes and greetings.

    As this auspicious moment draws closer, Vice President Kashim Shettima fervently implores family members, friends, and associates who may wish to place goodwill messages as advertisements to kindly donate the funds to charity organisations and vulnerable citizens instead. This aligns with the commitment of the Renewed Hope Administration of President Bola Tinubu to addressing issues of development and economic growth, as well as improving the living conditions of Nigerians.

    As he prepares to use this special moment to reflect and recommit himself to the tenets of responsive and good governance for the overall benefit of the people, the Vice President remains ever grateful for the goodwill he enjoys from Nigerians and the best wishes a great number of his well-wishers have demonstrated towards him over the years.

  • Ohanaeze Ndigbo Condemns “Poison Yoruba And Edo Video” [PRESS STATEMENT]

    Ohanaeze Ndigbo Condemns “Poison Yoruba And Edo Video” [PRESS STATEMENT]

    The attention of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has been drawn to a video clip making rounds in the social media which goes by the “name @Anyi_anambra on tiktok “asking the Igbo to put poison in the foods of the Yoruba and Benin people”. The miscreant “promised to encourage other Ibo to poison Yoruba and Benin people”. According to the video clip: “Let Ndigbo get heart of wickedness and to start poisoning Yoruba and Edo. To put ota pia-paia, eat and die sniper, I will put it in Yoruba and Benin food for them to die”.

    Ohanaeze would have ignored the social media video clip as coming from a deranged psychopath or one of the fictitious narratives which with the Internet device is twisted, dressed, coated and delivered to the unsuspecting and obliging public. However, our telephones have been inundated by various eminent persons who have expressed fears on the possibility of some persons carrying out the threats. It therefore becomes imperative for Ohanaeze to respond, especially when the National Publicity Secretary of the Afenifere, Mr. Jare Ajayi forwarded the clip and requested for prompt action.

    In the first place, there is no sufficient evidence that the lady in question is an Ibo. She does not in any way portray the Igbo character of thoughtfulness, discretion, self-censure and equanimity. There is no Igbo man or woman that will contemplate throwing stone in a full market for the fear of who shall be the victim. In other words, the Igbo travel more than any ethnic group in Africa. They also create homes away from home wherever they are found. They mix up or integrate with the local community and contribute to developing every community they find themselves. Based on the foregoing, two major derivatives emerge: if one should poison food in Lagos or Ibadan or Benin, is there any guarantee that the first victim will not be Igbo? The lady must be a depressed drowning ethnic bigot, obsessed by the negative side of history and unflinching satanic in orchestration.

    The Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Ambassador Okey Emuchay, MFR frowned at the video tape on the social media. Emuchay vehemently condemned both the video content and the perpetrator as a mischief-maker. They are the merchant of woes who deploy despicable and incendiary rhetoric to create ethnic mistrusts and conflicts where none exists.

    Ohanaeze seizes this opportunity to enlighten the younger generations that the Igbo, Edo and Yoruba share a lot in common. We share in cultural affinity, cosmology, morphology, and hospitality. The age-long inter-marriages between the Igbo, Yoruba and Edo have produced well accomplished great grand-children.

    In spite of an infinitesimal de-enculturated deviant category amongst the three ethnics, the Aguiyi Ironsi-Fajuyi episode at Ibadan on July 29, 1966 exemplifies the inviolable fraternity, amity, and camaraderie that must always be elevated, extolled and venerated amongst the groups at all times.

    Finally, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide wholeheartedly assures the Afenifere, the entire Yoruba and Edo brothers that the threat from the depraved mind should be ignored as idiotic, meaningless and vacuous. We add that, throughout history, proposals by the maladjusted are always dead on arrival.

    We use this opportunity to call on the security agencies in Nigeria to trace the perpetrators of this macabre dance to face the full weight of the law.

    E-Sign

    Dr. Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia,

    National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide

  • Abia at 33: Looking to the Future with Boundless Optimism – Gov. Alex Otti

    Abia at 33: Looking to the Future with Boundless Optimism – Gov. Alex Otti

    Being the Text of Governor Alex Otti’s Message to Mark the 33rd Anniversary of the Creation of Abia State on Tuesday, August 27, 2024

    1. Fellow Abians, brothers and sisters, friends, well-wishers and lovers of our great State, I bring you warm felicitations on this historic day as we celebrate the 33rd anniversary of the creation of our State. Let me begin by expressing the collective gratitude of our people to the Almighty God for preserving our lives to witness the joy of this very important day in our history, and for bringing us to a new epoch as we continue the lifelong commitment of creating a better society for ourselves, and those coming after us, building on the heroic sacrifices of the brave men and women who came before us.

    2. Abia is christened God’s Own State for a reason. Events of the last 33 years have amply demonstrated that the people who occupy this land, have a special place in the Creator’s agenda, we are His people, He is our God and we do not take this privilege for granted. We have been led by God through what has been a long and interesting journey, passing from military administrators to democratically elected governors. May I, on behalf of the good people of Abia State, acknowledge and appreciate our past leaders for their diverse contributions to the political, economic and social development of our dear State. Individually and collectively, they contributed in very unique ways to the growth and transformation of our communities, touched lives, and made Abia an important place in the larger geographical reality called Nigeria.

    3. This State was conceived in great hope — an understanding that an enterprising and diligent people, defined for ages by a firmly resilient disposition to life, deserve the freedom to chart the course of their destiny in a new community of dreamers, doers and self-starters. Beyond the gift of great men and women which has been bestowed on us in abundance, we also have very important foundational advantages including large expanse of fertile land to support our agricultural enterprises, vast supply of mineral resources, well known markets that reflect our historical interests in trade and commerce, and rich cultural practices which have been preserved for generations to constantly point us to our history, and values.

    4. It has been 33 years of mixed harvests of good and the not-so-good. At any rate, the significance of today’s event is in the opportunity it provides for collective reflection; to evaluate the long journey we have made and ask a few soul-searching questions. This is also the best time to envision where we want to be in the next few decades and make a firm resolution to play our parts as citizens and leaders in diverse fields of calling to make the dream of a beautiful future a reality through the commitment we bring to our daily endeavours.

    5. We have been presented with a new opportunity to dream bigger, start better and advance farther on the strength of knowledge gained from past experiences. On the basis of what we have learnt in the last 33 years, it is now taken for granted that it is up to us, the present generation of Ndi Abia, to work diligently to actualise the dreams and vision that inspired our fathers to fight for the creation of this State, set the foundation for its greatness and leave us good references in peaceful co-existence. It is now up to us to take up the challenge and contribute more than ever before to build a new, and just society.

    6. As a government, we are continuing to expand the frontiers of opportunities for ordinary men and women in pursuit of the vision of the founding fathers of our great State. Through our infrastructure restoration and expansion projects in rural and urban communities, new corridors of opportunities are being created in agriculture and allied industries, retail trade, transportation, petroleum and solid mineral exploration, and so much more. Our economic development agenda is firmed on the creation of jobs, and alleviation of poverty.

    7. A New Abia is being built and you, the people, are the architects, providing very critical support and direction to ensure that what we have committed to are being done, that the resources of the State are rightly channelled to meet the needs of the majority. Our development framework is comprehensive which explains why we are not just building new layers of physical infrastructure; we are also improving access to social services through sustained investments in the resuscitation of healthcare facilities and schools. Additionally, communities that were previously held hostage by criminal gangs have been liberated on the strength of our commitment to making Abia a truly safe destination for residents and businesses.

    8. My promise is that we shall not rest on our oars. We shall continue to work very hard to fulfil the promises that won us your trust. We acknowledge that things have not gone according to plan following unanticipated economic headwinds which have made planning very difficult for families, businesses and also for the government. Even then, we must refuse to give in to despair because this present storm shall definitely pass.

    9. We should go out today and always with our heads held high like our ancestors. We are the scions of brave men and women, our parents and grandparents lived through wars and famine yet, they did not stop dreaming. They were set apart by the power of optimism. As a people, this is the best time to look beyond the present circumstances and count our many blessings. May we take great pride in what we have achieved as a people in the last 33 years of daring and believing, of winning against the odds, and then step into the future with courage, certain that our victory will come. Abia, as we promised, shall be great in our lifetime because we know we have what it takes to do it and we shall do it, for ourselves, and for our children.

    10. Thank you for listening, happy 33rd anniversary and may God bless Abia State.

    Dr Alex C. Otti, OFR
    Governor, Abia State.

    27/08/2024

  • FG Approves Upward Review of Nigerian Passport Fees [PRESS RELEASE] 

    FG Approves Upward Review of Nigerian Passport Fees [PRESS RELEASE] 

    As part of its efforts to maintain the quality and integrity of the Nigerian Standard Passport, the Federal Government has approved an upward review of the fees for the Passport effective from 1st September, 2024.

    2. Based on the review, 32-page Passport booklet with 5 year validity previously charged at Thirty-five Thousand Naira (N35,000.00) will now be Fifty Thousand Naira (N50,000.00) only; while 64-page Passport booklet with 10 year validity which was Seventy Thousand Naira (N70,000.00) will be One Hundred Thousand Naira (N100,000.00) only. However, the fees remain unchanged in Diaspora.

    3. While the Nigeria Immigration Service regrets any inconvenience this increase might cause prospective applicants; it assures Nigerians of unwavering commitment to transparency and quality service delivery at all times.

    e-Signed:

    DCI KT Udo

    Service Public Relations Officer Service Headquarters, Abuja 21st August, 2024.