Tag: May 29

Buhari tenders apology to Nigerians over painful socio-economic realities

Outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari has apologised to citizens over the negative effects of some economic policies implemented by his administration in the course of revamping the nation’s economy.

The most recent of such policy was the implementation of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) naira redesign policy which was suspended on March 13.

The CBN Governor, Mr Godwin Emefiele, had in October 2022 announced that the bank would redesign N200, N500 and N1,000 notes and discontinue the old ones.

The implementation of the policy, which caused scarcity of the naira notes nationwide, foisted hardship, agony, humiliation, social uprising and deaths of Nigerians.

Banks and their Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) across the country were attacked by angry youths and other protesters.

However, on March 3, the Supreme Court extended the validity of the N200, N500, and N1,000 notes till Dec. 31, thereby restoring sanity into the various socio-economic activities in the country.

The president, however, said: ”In the course of revamping the economy, we made some difficult choices, most of which yielded the desired results.

“Some of the measures led to temporary pains and sufferings for which I sincerely apologised to my fellow countrymen, but the measures were taken for the overall good of the country.”

According to the president, the Nigerian economy has become more resilient due to the various strategies put in place to ensure that the economy remained afloat during cases of global economic downturns.

“You would all recall the supply chain disruptions and economic downturn that the world witnessed between 2020 and 2022 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The deftness of our response to the pandemic still remains a global best practice.

“Furthermore, we increased the ability of the poor and rural Nigerians to earn a living, provided more food for millions in our villages and gave our women opportunities to earn a living.

“Young men and women in urban centres were also supported to put their skills into productive use.”

The president affirmed that his administration also provided an enabling environment for the private sector to engage in businesses for which their return on investments is guaranteed.

According to him, the private sector proved a strong partner in the drive to build a resilient and sustainable economy as evidenced by the growing number of turnkey projects in various sectors of the economy.

On infrastructural development, Buhari disclosed that his administration had successfully completed some legacy projects to drive economic growth in the country.

“Mindful of the need to ensure adequate infrastructure to drive economic growth, we completed age-long projects and processes notably amongst which are the Petroleum Industry Act, completion of some power projects, completion of the Second Niger Bridge and various important roads linking cities and states,” he said.

May 28, 2023
Farewell speech by President Buhari

FAREWELL SPEECH BY HIS EXCELLENCY, MUHAMMADU BUHARI, PRESIDENT AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA

My fellow Nigerian brothers, sisters and friends of Nigeria.

2. I address you today, in my last assignment as a democratically elected President of our great and well-endowed nation, with a deep sense of gratitude to God, a great deal of appreciation to the Nigerian people and a modest sense of fulfilment.

3. Today we mark and celebrate another peaceful transition of power from one elected government to another in our steady march to improve and sustain Nigeria’s democracy.

4. This year we witnessed the most keenly contested Presidential Elections since the first Republic and this demonstrates that our democracy is getting better and more entrenched with each election.

5. We must as a nation improve and sustain gains we make in the electoral process, on an incremental basis for Nigeria to take its rightful place among Nations.

6. Our democracy provides for, allows and encourages seeking redress for perceived injustices, enabling some candidates and political parties that did not agree with the results to go to court.

7. Irrespective of the outcome of the various cases, I urge all parties involved to accept the decision of our courts and join hands to build a better Nigeria.

8. I salute the doggedness and resilience of all the Presidential Candidates and their political parties for believing in our judicial system by taking their grievances with the election results to court.

9. In the course of the campaigns, we had argued and disagreed on how to make Nigeria better but we never disagreed or had any doubts that Nigeria has to be better.

10. As your President, I call on all of us to bring to bear the strength of our individualism, the power of our unity, the convictions of our beliefs to make Nigeria work better and together with one spirit and one purpose.

11. To my brother, friend and fellow worker in the political terrain for the past ten years – Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu -, I congratulate you on the realisation of your dream, which was propelled by a burning passion to put Nigeria amongst the leading nations of the world.

12. You have indeed worked for this day and God has crowned your efforts. I have no doubt that your passion for excellence, reliance on competence, fairness in relationships, commitment to equity, loyalty to the country and desire for Nigeria to be globally relevant would come through for you, under God’s guidance, as you lead our country to levels higher that I am leaving.

13. You are the best candidate among all the contestants and Nigerians have chosen well.

14. The last eight years have been an exciting experience in my desire and commitment to see a Nigeria in which public goods and services are available, and accessible within a united, peaceful and secure nation.

15. Fellow Nigerians, on the strength of your overwhelming support for me and my political party, I started this journey with a great deal of promise and expectation from you. I never intended to be just politically correct but to do the correct things that will make meaningful impact on the lives of the common Nigerian.

16. This high expectation was not misplaced because, like the ordinary Nigerian, I had grown tired of watching the country progressively moving away from the path of correctness.

17. To ensure that our democracy remains resilient and our elected representatives remain accountable to the people, I am leaving behind an electoral process which guarantees that votes count, results are credible, elections are fair and transparent and the influence of money in politics reduced to the barest minimum. And Nigerians can elect leaders of their choice.

18. We are already seeing the outcome of this process as it provided an even playing field where persons without any political God-Father or access to money defeated other well-resourced candidates.

19. The Nigerian economy has become more resilient due to the various strategies put in place to ensure that our economy remained afloat during cases of global economic downturns.

20. You would all recall the supply chain disruptions and economic downturn that the world witnessed between 2020 and 2022 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The deftness of our response to the pandemic still remains a global best practice.

21. Furthermore, we increased the ability of the poor and rural Nigerians to earn a living, provided more food for millions in our villages and gave our women opportunities to earn a living.

22. Young men and women in urban centres were also supported to put their skills into productive use. Our administration also provided an enabling environment for the private sector to engage in businesses for which their return on investments is guaranteed.

23. The private sector proved a strong partner in our drive to build a resilient and sustainable economy as evidenced by the growing number of turn-key projects in various sectors of the economy.

24. In the course of revamping the economy, we made some difficult choices, most of which yielded the desired results. Some of the measures led to temporary pain and suffering for which I sincerely apologised to my fellow countrymen, but the measures were taken for the over-all good of the country.

25. Mindful of the need to ensure adequate infrastructure to drive economic growth, we completed age-long projects and processes notably amongst which are the Petroleum Industry Act, completion of some power projects, completion of the second Niger bridge and various important roads linking cities and states.

26. Our battle to ensure that all Nigerians live in a safe and secure environment has achieved considerable results. As I complete my term in office, we have been able to reduce the incidences of banditry, terrorism, armed robbery and other criminal activities considerably.

27. To sustain the gains made so far, I call on all Nigerians to be more vigilant and support the security agencies by ensuring that our values defined by being your brothers’ keeper govern our actions.

28. Up-till now, I still grieve for our children still in captivity, mourn with parents, friends and relatives of all those that lost loved ones in the days of the senseless brigandage and carnage. For all those under unlawful captivity our Security Agencies are working round the clock to secure their release unharmed.

29. Fellow Nigerians, you know how dear the desire in my heart is, to rid the country of corrupt practices that had consistently diminished our efforts to be a great country.

30. I did pursue this commitment relentlessly, in spite of the expected push back. I am happy that considerable progress had been made in repatriating huge sums of money back to the country and also taken over properties illegally acquired from our common wealth.

31. To improve service delivery, we began the implementation of a number of reforms aimed at producing an Efficient, Productive, Incorruptible and Citizen-oriented (EPIC) Federal Civil Service and the results are beginning to show.

32. On the international scene, Nigeria’s influence continues to grow as exemplified by notable Nigerians occupying headship and leadership positions in renowned global bodies.

33. Our democracy is built on and continues to thrive on the principles of separation of powers. The leadership and members of the National Assembly deserve my appreciation for their patriotism which did not detract from their roles as a check to the executive arm.

34. I also want to use this opportunity to express my appreciation to a good number of Nigerians who provided their support and encouragement to help me navigate the exciting journey in moving Nigeria forward.

35. I cannot and will not forget the millions who prayed for me during my illness in my first term of office. I am constantly praying for you and for Nigeria to thrive in peace.

36. As I retire home to Daura, Katsina State, I feel fulfilled that we have started the Nigeria Re-Birth by taking the initial critical steps and I am convinced the in-coming administration will quicken the pace of this walk to see a Nigeria that fulfils its destiny to be a great nation.

37. I am confident that I am leaving office with Nigeria better in 2023 than in 2015.

38. I thank you all. And may God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

May 28, 2023
Bishop Kukah reveals real problem of Nigeria as Sultan sets agenda for Tinubu

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar III, has urged the incoming administration of Sen. Bola Tinubu to ensure good governance and developmental politics.

Abubakar gave the task on Saturday in Abuja at the 2023 Presidential Inauguration Lecture.

The lecture, titled “Deepening Democracy for Development and Integration”, was delivered by the former President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta.

According to the Sultan, Kenyatta’s words in calling for unity and inclusiveness in governance in Nigeria were those of a very patriotic Nigerian.

“The democracy we are supposed to practice is the type that allows for the development, peace and stability of our people.

“Without development, without stability, there is no democracy. You do not have democracy when you do not have good leaders to practice that democracy.

“Leadership is of utmost importance if we want to practice democracy and move the country forward,” he said.

The Sultan said that it was a worthy achievement that Nigeria was celebrating its seventh consecutive democratic transition.

He described the milestone as a significant achievement for both the winners and those who did not win in the election, adding that they both share in the credit.

“We are here to see how we can enrich the conversation and advise the incoming administration on ways to improve on governance and development in an atmosphere of peace and security,” he said.

The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, said that religion, just like any other form of identity like ethnicity and gender, was not a problem in Nigeria.

According to Kukah, the real problem is when these categories are left unattended.

“It is then that they provoke problems. I do not like to talk about religion because I do not believe that we have a religion problem,” he said.

He called on African leaders to wake up to the threat of “illiberal democracy”.

“There is a resurgence of democracy that looks like democracy but does not work like democracy,” he said.

He called on the incoming administration to take advantage of Kenyatta’s lecture as a basis to build a good society.

Mr Akinwumi Adesina, the President of African Development Bank, said the election of a new president always elicited hope.

Adesina said that Nigerians would be looking to the incoming government with the hope that it will assure security, peace and stability.

“Hope that you will heal and unite the fractured nations; hope that you will rise above patronage and forge a compelling force to move the nation forward with inclusiveness, fairness and equity.

“Also, hope that you will dramatically improve the economy,” he said.

He said the starting point in fixing the economy must be micro economy and fiscal stability.

“Unless the micro economy is revived the fiscal challenges addressed boldly, resources for development will not be there,” he said.

On his part, Mr Dayo Israel urged the incoming government to encourage greater youth participation in governance.

Israel also commended President Muhammadu Buhari for enabling the “Not too young to run” Bill that became a law.

May 28, 2023
I am the most sued minister – Lai Mohammed

The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, says he is the most sued minister in the cabinet of President Muhammadu Buhari.

The Minister stated this in Abuja at a send-forth dinner organised in his honour by his ministry and its parastatals as the Buhari administration comes to an end in days.

Speaking at the event, the minister said, excluding the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, who is represented or joined in cases against the Federal Government, he is the most sued minister.

He said not less than 37 cases were filed against him and his office in the course of discharging his duties speaking for government, defending its policies and programmes as well as being the cultural ambassador of the nation.

According to the minister, no month would pass that President Buhari would not receive a message that Lai Mohammed should be fired for one alleged infractions or the other.

He said he was able to keep his job because the President trusted and believed in him and knew that his actions were in the interest of the administration and country.

Mohammed identified the EndSARS crisis and the suspension of Twitter operations in the country as the two most challenging incidents and actions that his office faced and had to manage and defend.

According to him, it was a daunting task, during the EndSARS, for his office to convince Nigerians and the global community that no life was lost at the Lekki Toll gate which some sections of the media erroneously tagged ‘massacre”.

He reiterated that till date, nobody has come out to claim that his or her child, ward or relative was killed at the the Lekki Toll Gate.

The minister said the suspension of Twitter operations attracted criticism and condemnations locally and internationally because the reason for the action by government was misunderstood.

He said the action had paid off for the country because Twitter has registered its operations in the country and ready to work with terms and conditions agreed by both parties.

Looking back to Nov. 11, 2015, when he assumed office as Minister, Mohammed said it was an epic journey and so far, it was the longest period anyone had served as Minister of Information and Culture.

“I make bold to say that thanks to you all, we lived up to our mandate, which is the management of the image, reputation and promotion of the culture of the people and government of Nigeria.

“We did these through a dynamic public information system that facilitated access by citizens and the global community to credible and timely information.

“Among many achievements, we blazed the trail in the retrieval of our timeless artefacts from those who looted them, and our model is being followed by many countries around the world,” he said.

Mohammed thanked the two Special Assistants to the President attached to his office, Mr Segun Adeyemi, and Mr William Adeleye, whom he described as team players.

He also appreciated the five Permanent Secretaries that worked with him during his tenure, CEOs of the agencies under the Ministry, Directors, his media team and other members of staff for their diligence and cooperation.

May 27, 2023
May 29: Police announce traffic diversion in Abuja

The police in the Federal Capital (FCT) on Friday announced traffic diversions in Abuja ahead of the May 29 Presidential inauguration ceremony slated to hold at the Eagle Square.

The diversion is contained in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer in the FCT, SP Josephine Adeh, on Friday in Abuja.

She said the diversion points are Goodluck Jonathan Expressway by Court of Appeal, Deeper Life Junction, Bond/Total Filling Station, POWA/FCDA Junction, Finance Junction by ECOWAS/Women Affairs and Ministry of Foreign Affairs,

“Other diversion points are Eagle Square ( Phase 1 & Phase 11), Kur Muhammad Way / National Mosque, Abia House, NITEL Junction by Ademola Adetokunbo and Gana Junction/Transcorp.

“Traffic will also be diverted at Bayelsa House by Federal High Court, Aso Drive, Ceddi Plaza, NNPC Twin Tower and NNPC/NBS,” she said.

She said the command had also deployed human and material resources across the nooks and crannies of the FCT to ensure a safe and peaceful Inauguration.

Adeh said the deployment consists of all Intelligence and tactical assets at the disposal of the command, solidified with inter-agency collaboration.

She said the idea was to ensure a peaceful atmosphere during the inauguration and to avert any form of threat on the nation’s democratic process

Adeh said the operational deployment was characterised by visibility policing across the territory, stop and search duty, intelligence-led raids on black spots, surveillance and vehicular/foot patrol.

“The command equally wishes to notify the public of proposed fireworks scheduled to take place on the eve of the inauguration, midnight of May 28 at the City Gate and the Millennium Tower, to usher in the new administration.

“The fireworks will be carried out by Messrs Innate Arts and Media,” she said.

May 27, 2023
Police announce traffic diversion in Abuja ahead of May 29

The police in the Federal Capital (FCT) on Friday announced traffic diversions in Abuja ahead of the May 29 Presidential inauguration ceremony slated to hold at the Eagle Square.

The diversion is contained in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer in the FCT, SP Josephine Adeh, on Friday in Abuja.

She said the diversion points are Goodluck Jonathan Expressway by Court of Appeal, Deeper Life Junction, Bond/Total Filling Station, POWA/FCDA Junction, Finance Junction by ECOWAS/Women Affairs and Ministry of Foreign Affairs,

“Other diversion points are Eagle Square ( Phase 1 & Phase 11), Kur Muhammad Way / National Mosque, Abia House, NITEL Junction by Ademola Adetokunbo and Gana Junction/Transcorp.

“Traffic will also be diverted at Bayelsa House by Federal High Court, Aso Drive, Ceddi Plaza, NNPC Twin Tower and NNPC/NBS,” she said.

She said the command had also deployed human and material resources across the nooks and crannies of the FCT to ensure a safe and peaceful Inauguration.

Adeh said the deployment consists of all Intelligence and tactical assets at the disposal of the command, solidified with inter-agency collaboration.

She said the idea was to ensure a peaceful atmosphere during the inauguration and to avert any form of threat on the nation’s democratic process

Adeh said the operational deployment was characterised by visibility policing across the territory, stop and search duty, intelligence-led raids on black spots, surveillance and vehicular/foot patrol.

“The command equally wishes to notify the public of proposed fireworks scheduled to take place on the eve of the inauguration, midnight of May 28 at the City Gate and the Millennium Tower, to usher in the new administration.

“The fireworks will be carried out by Messrs Innate Arts and Media,” she said.

May 26, 2023
Nigeria will achieve new heights under Tinubu – Buhari

Outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed optimism that Nigeria will continue to thrive and achieve new heights under the leadership of the incoming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports President Buhari stated this after the investiture of President-elect, Sen. Bola Tinubu with GCFR, and Vice President-elect, Sen. Kashim Shettima with GCON.

The investiture of the president-elect and vice president-elect set the pace for their swearing into office on Monday (May 29, 2023), drawing a curtain on the eight-year administration of Buhari, who served two terms, 2015-2023.

The president congratulated both political leaders, who had served as Governor of Lagos and Borno States, respectively.

“I have run a good race, I have finished my course. It is now time for another to take up the baton. I extend my warmest congratulations to the President-elect, on his well-deserved victory at the February 25th, 2023, Presidential elections.

”The Nigerian people have recognised your leadership qualities, political acumen and passion to serve our great nation, and have entrusted you with the burden of governing our beloved country.

“I have no doubt that Nigeria will continue to thrive and achieve new heights under your leadership. You were the best candidate at the elections and Nigerians have chosen wisely. I equally extend my congratulations to the Vice President-elect,” Buhari said.

The president noted that: ”Your wealth of experience in governance, your unwavering commitment to the well-being of the Nigerian people, and your exemplary leadership during challenging times as Governor of Borno State, have made you a deserving candidate for this position.

”I have full confidence that you will serve our nation with utmost dedication and integrity.

“In accordance with the Honours Award Act, 1963, Laws of Federation of Nigeria (LFN), 2004, Presidents/Heads of State receive the Honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (GCFR), while the Vice Presidents are awarded the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON).

“Today, with the authority vested in me, as the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I have conferred the National Honour of GCFR on His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu and that of the GCON on His Excellency Kashim Shettima, respectively.”

“As we celebrate this auspicious occasion, let us not forget the immense responsibilities that come with leadership.

”The challenges facing our nation are significant, and it is the duty of the President and Vice President to address them with courage, wisdom and compassion.

“We must remain committed to the principles of good governance, transparency and accountability, as these are the foundations upon which our nation’s progress and development rely,’’ he added.

Buhari noted that Tinubu had the experience and capacity to lead the country, carrying on the legacy of his administration.

“President-elect, Bola Tinubu, you have a long and illustrious track record of public service, marked by your exceptional achievements in various capacities.

”Your transformative leadership in Lagos State, where you left an indelible mark in the areas of infrastructure, education, healthcare and economic development, speaks volumes about your dedication to the welfare of the Nigerian people,” he stated.

Buhari expressed his deepest gratitude to Nigerians for their unwavering support and trust throughout his tenure.

He said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to serve this great nation, and I am confident that Nigeria is in capable hands as we embark on this new chapter.’’

While examining some of the challenges before the incoming administration, Buhari advised Tinubu to lead the country with wisdom, courage and compassion.

”May the Almighty bless you and guide you in your endeavours to lead Nigeria towards a brighter and more prosperous future,’’ he prayed.

Buhari said the administration was faced with many challenges at inception and worked hard to tackle hydra-headed issues.

“This administration from inception has faced security challenges such as insurgency, oil theft, kidnapping as well as corruption which has eaten deep into the system.

“With the political will and support of many Nigerians, especially our dogged Armed Forces, insurgency, terrorism, and kidnapping have been reduced to their barest minimum while corruption has been tackled headlong.

“Despite the aforementioned challenges, our administration has made economic gains over the years.”

While acknowledging the turbulent times and global economic meltdown occasioned by the world oil crisis and most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic, our economy has remained afloat and strong.

“Our administration’s commitment and determination in infrastructural upliftment of Nigeria have remained unshaken,’’ he added.

Buhari noted that the Second Niger Bridge, named President Muhammadu Buhari, had been completed and inaugurated as part of his administration’s achievements.

“I am happy to say that no administration in Nigeria’s modern history has given so much attention to roads as we have done in the last eight years. In all, we have been able to construct and complete over 8,352.94 kilometers of roads across Nigeria.

“In spite of the shortfall in the federal government’s revenue, due to the weakness in the global economy that led to a drop in oil revenue, we have touched on all sectors of the Nigerian economy positively.

“As we celebrate the monumental infrastructural strides achieved by this administration, it is pertinent to acknowledge that these transformative endeavours have not only reshaped our physical landscape but have also paved the way for remarkable economic outcomes that reverberate across our nation.

“The link between infrastructure and economic prosperity is undeniable. It is through the construction of roads, railways, bridges and other critical assets that we unlock the true potential of our nation, leading to better communication, facilitating trade and propelling economic growth,’’ he said.

The president said an Executive Order No. 14 of 2023, had been signed ”to avoid a repeat of our 2015 experience’’, establishing the legal framework for conducting presidential transitions at the federal level.

According to him, the Executive Order establishes the Presidential Transition Council chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Ministerial Transition Teams headed by the Permanent Secretaries.

Buhari explained that the primary responsibility of the two ad-hoc bodies was to ensure that every piece of information that would help a new administration get off to a speedy start was made available in a usable format and in a timely manner.

“Today, I am so proud to have handed over to you my Successor, Your Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, three key documents that will guide you as you aim to define a path for your administration.

“It is my earnest desire that you will find these documents useful as this would be the first time in the history of this country that such detailed documentation will be produced for handover to a new administration.

”I strongly encourage you to uphold this legacy and make the experience even better for your successor by the time you are to leave office.

“It may also interest you to know that apart from these three documents, all the Ministries and their Agencies have also prepared their Handover Notes, ready to brief their new political leadership. I want to sincerely thank the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and his team for this great feat,’’ he further stated.

On the transfer of a symbolic baton to Asiwaju Tinubu, Buhari said that the incoming government would continue with the race of advancing democracy and development.

“This is a first in the history of our Nation’s transition process. To preserve this remarkable history for generations to come, I have directed that the Baton be preserved in the Presidential history wing of the National Archives and I hope that President-elect Tinubu and those after him will build on this tradition,’’ he added.

In his remark, Tinubu thanked Buhari for the transition committee that was ensuring a smooth handing-over process, with documents that cover and capture the performance of the outgoing administration.

“I also feel a sense of pride that this moment is our moment,’’ he said.

Tinubu also extolled Buhari for his democratic credentials, making history on the assumption of office by recognising late Chief M.K.O. Abiola and Amb. Babagana Kingibe as winners of the 1993 presidential elections and honouring them with GCFR and GCON, respectively.

“You went back into history to set the record straight,’’ he noted.

Tinubu congratulated the president for providing strong and visionary leadership for eight years, assuring that he will not disappoint on the assumption of office on Monday.

“I understand the honour given to me and the magnitude of the task that awaits us,’’ he noted.

On his part, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Boss Mustapha, reeled out the achievements of the administration in eight years and explained the historic baton and the three documents that were handed over.

May 25, 2023
I’m honoured to lead delegation for Tinubu’s inauguration – US home secretary

United States Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development Marcia Fudge acknowledged her role to lead President Joe Biden’s delegation to the inauguration ceremony of president-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Fudge said she is honoured to lead the delegation to Nigeria.

She heads a nine-member delegation to attend the May 29 inauguration.

In a tweet on Wednesday, she said: “I am honored to lead the presidential delegation to Nigeria to attend the inauguration of His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

Other members of the delegation to Nigeria are Chargé d’affaires, U.S. Embassy in Abuja David Greene, United States Representative from California Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, US Department of Commerce Marisa Lago, Commander of US Africa Command Michael E. Langley, US Trade and Development Agency Director Enoh T. Ebong, Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of African Affairs Mary Catherine Phee, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for African Affairs, National Security Council Judd Devermont and Assistant Administrator for the Bureau for Africa, US Agency for International Development (USAID) Monde Muyangwa.

May 25, 2023
May 29: Buhari charges Tinubu to uphold his legacy

President Muhammadu Buhari has told Nigeria’s president-elect, Bola Tinubu to uphold his legacies after his inauguration on May 29th.

Buhari made this demand on Thursday in Abuja, the country’s capital via a statement from his special adviser on media and publicity, Femi Adesina.

According to him, the President said: “I have run a good race; I have finished my course. It is now time for another to take up the baton.

“Today, I am so proud to have handed over to you, my successor, Your Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, three key documents that will guide you as you aim to define a path for your administration.

“It’s my earnest desire that you will find these documents useful, as this would be the first time in the history of this country that such detailed documentation will be produced for handover to a new administration. I strongly encourage you to uphold this legacy and make the experience even better for your successor by the time you are to leave office.

” It may also interest you to know that apart from these three documents, all the ministries and their agencies have also prepared their handover notes, ready to brief their new political leadership. I want to sincerely thank the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and his team for this great feat.”

May 25, 2023
Tinubu is God’s answer to prayers for good leadership – Kabiru Gaya

Sen. Kabiru Gaya has said that the emergence of Sen. Bola Tinubu as Nigeria’s President-elect is God’s answer to the country’s prayers for good leadership.

He said this while speaking during a joint prayer session organised by APC Stakeholders Forum on Wednesday night.

Gaya, who represents Kano-South Senatorial District in the Senate, said Tinubu’s antecedents when he was governor of Lagos State for two-terms was there for all to see.

He expressed optimism that if he could replicate what he did in Lagos State in terms of infrastructure and grow the state’s economy in spite of obvious odds at the national level, Nigeria would be a better place for all.

Gaya noted that Sen. Kashim Shettima, the Vice President-elect also worked hard as governor of Borno for two-terms where he addressed issues of insecurity that brought problems to the state.

According to the lawmaker, Tinubu and Shettima are a perfect match that has the capacity to bring Nigeria to greater heights and make it the envy of other nations.

“I am sure God will guide them to bring in place professionals as cabinet members to work with and form a good government in the interest of the country and its citizens,” he said.

Also speaking, retired Col. Abudumumini Aminu, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT) of the forum said the joint prayer session which cut across religious faith was to pray for a successful tenure for the in-coming administration.

He said it was also to pray for national unity, peace, progress and the development of the country.

He particularly thanked party stakeholders who worked to ensure its success at the polls, adding that the event was to seek God’s intervention and commit the in-coming administration into His hands.

He expressed appreciation to those who made out time to attend the event from across states of the federation, saying their sacrifices and prayers for a better Nigeria would be granted by God.

Alhaji Sulaiman Argungu, APC National Organising Secretary, represented Sen. Abdullahi Adamu, the party’s national chairman at the event which was attended by traditional rulers, members of the Diplomatic Corps and religious leaders.

Prayer for special wisdom on the in-coming administration, development, peace and unity in the country were offered at the event.

Some of the attendees who spoke to NAN, said there was need to regularly organise such prayer session to pray for the country and its leadership.

Tinubu will be sworn in on Monday.

The inauguration of the president of Nigeria is a ceremony to mark the commencement of a new four-year term.

During this ceremony, some 90 to 95 days after the presidential election, the president takes the presidential oath of office.

The first inauguration of Shehu Shagari took place on Oct. 1, 1979 the independence day of Nigeria.

Since the beginning of the fourt republic in 1999, all inaugurations have been held on May 29.

The most recent presidential inauguration was held on May 29, 2019, when President Muhammadu Buhari resumed his second term in office.

The recitation of the presidential oath of office is the only component in this ceremony mandated by the Nigerian Constitution.

The Chief Justice of Nigeria administers the presidential oath of office.

Since 1999, the oath has been administered at six scheduled public inaugurations, by five chief justices.

The ceremony is to hold at the Eagle Square,Three Arms Zone in Abuja.

May 25, 2023