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Tag: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

  • 2023 Supplementary Budget is pragmatic response to address economic challenges – FG replies Obi

    2023 Supplementary Budget is pragmatic response to address economic challenges – FG replies Obi

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, says the 2023 supplementary budget is a bold and pragmatic response to address the current economic challenges.

    Idris stated this in a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr Rabiu Ibrahim, on Thursday in Abuja.

    President Bola Tinubu on Nov. 8, signed the 2023 supplementary budget into law.

    However, Mr Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, claimed that the 2023 supplementary budget was insensitive.

    The Minister admonished Obi to take the time and effort to acquaint himself with the details of the N2.17 trillion 2023 Supplementary Budget.

    He said that highlight of the budget captured allocations for essential sectors including security; agriculture and food security, works and housing, wage increase for workers, student loan scheme, social safety nets, among others.

    “All these aimed at strengthening the country’s economic foundation and improve the living conditions of Nigerians.

    “The broad provisions in the supplementary budget is a reflection of President Tinubu’s strong desire and eagerness to support the vital functions of government.

    “These include addressing urgent security needs, and fast-track the country’s recovery process from the economic impact occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy,” he said.

    Idris urged the oppositions to be informed and balanced in the exercise of their right to differing opinions and refrain from misrepresentation of facts for political gains.

    He said the supplementary budget was derived from the active engagement and consultations with relevant stakeholders who ensured that the budgetary provisions aligned with the needs and expectations of Nigerians.

    “In line with President Tinubu’s inclination to accountability and transparency in government expenditure, all items in the supplementary budget have been meticulously scrutinised to ensure efficient utilisation of public funds”.

  • Tinubu inaugurates digital civil registration, vital statistics system

    Tinubu inaugurates digital civil registration, vital statistics system

    President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated the National Geospatial Data Repository Digital Civil Registration and Vital Statistics System (CRVS) to generate accurate and reliable demographic data in Nigeria.

    He also inaugurated the National Coordination Committee for the CRVS, under the Chairman of National Population Commission (NPC) and stakeholders across all Federal Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

    In his address at the event on Wednesday in the Presidential Villa, Abuja, the President said that the CRVS would help improve service delivery, care and knowledge to Nigerians.

    “It is my honour to be here to launch a digital Electronic Civil Registration and Vital Statistics System (e-CRVS), a National Geospatial, Data Respiratory and the inauguration of the CRVS National Coordination Committee approved.

    “This launch marks another great step in our efforts to generate accurate and reliable demographic data in Nigeria.

    “We can debate why now? Why not before now?

    “But let me commend the noble initiative of the National Population Commission (NPC).

    “The CRVS system is the basic building block of an identity ecosystem.

    “It will help to improve service delivery, care and knowledge to Nigerians and shall ultimately become vital source of identity data across federal agencies such as NIMS-C, NIS, road safety, police, EFCC and other security outfits.”

    He, therefore, appealed to all Ministries, Departments and Agencies to support the initiative.

    “Don’t say this is not my business; please cooperate.”

    The President said that the system would improve the ability of the federal agencies to generate vital statistics on important population events and migration.

    According to him, the CRVS will enable the government to design a well tailored, effective and efficient policy capable of meeting the needs of the Nigerian people.

    “Let’s always thank God that this country has been blessed, and has been disaster free.

    “Sometimes when you see disaster even minor magnitude, involving the lives of our people, you cannot easily say these are how many people are involved.

    “It is hoped that the current drive to reposition this vital registration system will provide the basis for 100 per cent attainment of our year 2030 SDG targets in respect of real time identity management and population data.

    “For me, at this time, the Commission has made substantial progress in the quest to deliver the first digital population and housing census.

    “It is my hope that the result of the census will provide the nation with much needed data for development, planning and the enthronement of good governance.”

    He called on the NPC to deploy its cutting edge technology especially the geospatial data that had been collected, through the enumeration area, demarcation in implementing the CRVS.

    He noted that the population remained the greatest asset of the nation in the development process.

    According to him, collecting accurate and reliable information on the size, distribution, composition and characteristics of the population is an essential governance activity which is also consistent with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “The Commission will, therefore, be supported and in the conduct of this next census.”

    He thanked the private solution providers for the laudable project and assured them that the Federal Government would always extend a hand of partnership to all private investors willing to partner with the government at all levels.

    “We are open for business and we are open for all possible partnerships in a way that will determine and redirect our progress development to upgrade the character of our country.

    “The ‘VitalReg’, they call it, I know is very special and I know the Director-General in charge; I have worked with her before.

    “Bisoye Odusote is a very hardworking lady that you can count on.

    “The prosperity of our nation is assured if we can do a reliable and dependable exercise,” President Tinubu said.

    In her goodwill message, UNICEF’s Country Representative, Cristian Munduate, commended Tinubu’s commitment to enhance civil registration data capturing, collation, processing, dissemination and access.

    “UNICEF remains steadfast in its support of the Federal Government of Nigeria’s endeavour to build a sustainable civil registration and vital statistics system.

    “We are committed to providing assistance to establish the necessary requirements for the successful compilation and processing of vital data,” Munduate said.

    For his part, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, said Nigeria’s most important asset was its people, especially its children, present and generations yet unborn.

    Earlier, the Chairman of NPC, Nasir Kwarra said the inauguration of CRVS emphasised the commitment of the current administration to strengthen civil registration, data capturing, processing and timely access to vital statistics.

    According to him, the initiative aligns with the United Nations Legal Identity Agenda and resolutions of the African Ministers Conference held in Addis Ababa.

    Kwarra said that the conference advocated for a technological shift in data generation.

  • Alleged planned UK protest against Tinubu, a misadventure – APC diaspora

    Alleged planned UK protest against Tinubu, a misadventure – APC diaspora

    The leadership of APC UK Chapter says planned protest by a group against President Bola Tinubu in London remains a misadventure.

    The Chairman of the chapter, Mr Tunde Doherty, disclosed this in a statement on Friday in Lagos.

    Doherty, also the APC Committee of Diaspora Chairmen, said he felt compelled to respond to the recent allegations and statements made by a group led by Aisha Yesufu, an activist allegedly associated with the Labour Party.

    “It has come to our attention that this group is organising a protest in London to propagate unfounded claims about the educational credentials of President Bola Tinubu.

    “We firmly believe our responsibility is to address this matter and underscore the significance of relying on substantiated facts over premature and unsubstantiated allegations.

    “President Bola Tinubu, a seasoned and distinguished statesman, has a long and illustrious track record of serving our great nation. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the betterment of Nigeria and its people.

    “The allegations of forged certificates not only lack concrete evidence but also undermine the spirit of democracy and fair political discourse that we hold dear,” Doherty said.

    The chairman said that APC diaspora leaders were standing solidly behind Tinubu.

    According to him, as responsible citizens, the chapter understands the value of peaceful protest and the freedom of expression.

    He, however, said that such actions must be based on facts and a genuine pursuit of justice rather than serving as a platform for character assassination and divisive tactics.

    Doherty said: “We implore those planning to participate in this protest to consider the potential consequences of spreading unfounded allegations and misinformation.

    “In the spirit of constructive dialogue and unity, we encourage a more constructive approach to addressing concerns or grievances related to our nation’s leadership.

    “Let us engage in respectful, evidence-based discussions that foster progress and maintain the dignity of our great nation.

    “We extend an open invitation to anyone with genuine concerns to engage in a meaningful and informed dialogue with us, as we firmly believe in the power of informed, collaborative, and fact-based solutions to move our nation forward.”

    He urged all concerned parties to reconsider their actions and seek the truth through rational, respectful discourse rather than contributing to division and unwarranted controversy.

  • Tinubu mourns Prof. Nwabueze

    Tinubu mourns Prof. Nwabueze

    President Bola Tinubu has condoled with the Nwabueze family, the government and people of Anambra State, on the death of Professor Ben Nwabueze, one time minister of education.

    Tinubu, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, described the death of Nwabueze who was also a foremost constitutional lawyer as a profound loss.

    According to him, Nwabueze’s knowledge of law was outstanding.

    “Prof. Nwabueze’s contribution to the precedents and principles of the nation’s constitution is notable.

    ” His involvement in the drafting of the 1979 constitution is a legacy that stands him out as well as his outstanding contributions to the legal profession at large.”

    Tinubu asked his family, the good people of Anambra State, and Nigerians in general to take solace in the worthy legacy that the deceased left behind.

    The President prays that God Almighty grant Prof Nwabueze eternal rest.

  • President Tinubu seeks German chancellor’s support to combat terrorism

    President Tinubu seeks German chancellor’s support to combat terrorism

    President Bola Tinubu, on Sunday solicited the support of German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, in combating terrorism in Nigeria.

    Tinubu made the request at a bilateral meeting with the German Chancellor at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Sunday.

    “We are fighting terrorism and that is improving. We still need more support in that area. And for us to be able to sustain democracy, rule of law and freedom for our people, we need to fight for democracy.

    “And democracy must win at all times for us to meet the expectation of an African dream. That is why your visit this time around is more than necessary.

    “You will have noticed, I don’t need to go about the various problems happening in the Sahel region of Africa. You’ve seen and noticed the coup in Guinea and recently in Niger Republic.

    “We have people diplomatically managing the situation. The need for you to help on security will be emphasised and we will continue to require your knowledge.

    “We thank you for the past contributions, particularly on police, law enforcement training. We need more help. And we’ll discuss further today.”

    The president said following the supreme court judgment validating his election, his administration would focus on good governance to move the country forward.

    He said his administration was determined to change the narrative and bring about a transformative government in the country.

    “It is just about a few days ago that the Nigerian Supreme Court had a final say on our electoral exercise.

    “The distraction is over. This gives us more time to focus on governance for the people and moving Nigeria forward for economic opportunities and prosperity that will defend democracy.

    “Our economic team and members of the group are all here ready to partner with you, with Germany as the largest economy in Europe.

    “And the largest economy in Africa is Nigeria, so we are blessed with good environment, weather and blessed in terms of mineral resources.

    “Our hydrocarbon industry is still fledging environmentally while we are moving towards the transition energy source.

    “I know Germany has advanced a lot in protecting the environment and modernising energy to meet the 21st century needs both of the world and Europe in particular.”

    On his part, Scholz expressed the commitment of Germany to democracy and the rule of law.

    “And it is important for us to make this a lifestyle for countries. It is good for a better future for our people. And so I’m very happy that we can work on this discussion.

    “We will examine how we can continue to support you in doing the best and having this insecurity questions in your country as well.

    “We will go into details later, but I can assure you that we will continue our support and our cooperation in this field.”

    He said one of the main aspects for cooperation between the two countries would be developing the economy and using the economic opportunities of Nigeria.

    “As you already said, there are a lot of chances not just from gas and oil, which is traditionally linked to your country.

    “But there’s a lot of room for improvement, using the capacities of your country, but also for going into investments for the future, which is about hydrogen.”

  • Gov. Yusuf praises Tinubu on his commitment towards security

    Gov. Yusuf praises Tinubu on his commitment towards security

    Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State on Tuesday commended the political commitment demonstrated by President Bola Tinubu for his efforts towards securing lives and property of Nigerians.

    The Kano State Governor made the commendation while delivering a speech at a hangout with the 222 influential youths who have changed to be good Samaritans in the state.

    “I want to use this opportunity to commend President Bola Tinubu for his efforts in ensuring the primary responsibility of government, which is the protection of lives and property of citizens,” he said.

    The governor called on the influential youths to live up to expectations and be honest with themselves and the society by become law abiding.

    He explained that the state government would continue to support the Police and other security agencies to perform optimally.

    He however warned that should anyone of the youths who decided to disregard law and order would be arrested and prosecuted.

    He described the repentant youths as victims of the personal whims of some desperate politicians who drug them and use them to achieve their selfish political motives.

    Yusuf called on them to make use of the opportunities they now have as the stat government is going to support them to achieve better life.

    “We are satisfied that you have shun crimes and criminality and have promised to live a good life.

    “For those of you who want to go back to school, we will offer you complete scholarship from whatever level you are.

    “Those who want skills will be trained under the skill acquisition centres and be given start up capitals to be self reliant,” he said.

    Earlier, the Commissioner of Police Hussaini Gumel, commended the governor for the support to the police in its efforts at providing peaceful atmosphere in the state.

    Gumel said that already the police has since submitted a list of requirements to the governor according to the trade the repentant youths had chosen.

    “We will continue to be proactive to sustain the ongoing peaceful atmosphere in our areas of supervision for peace, progress and political stability of our state,” he said.

    The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, commended the Police and other security agencies for their contributions in the ongoing fight against criminal activities in the state.

    The Emir said that the professionalism and commitment demonstrated by the Police had helped to improve the security situation in and outside the metropolis.

    “I want to use this occasion to specially appreciate the law enforcement agencies; the Nigeria Police, the Navy, the DSS, the Civil Defence Corps and of course other outfits for enhancing security situation in the state.

    “I want to commend all the forces who put their lives on the line to have our people sleep with their two eyes closed

    “We will continue to mobilise residents on the need to volunteer credible information on movement of dubious characters for prompt security action,” he said.

  • My husband is not a magician – First lady, Remi Tinubu

    My husband is not a magician – First lady, Remi Tinubu

    Nigeria’s first lady, Senator Remi Tinubu has posited that her husband, president Bola Ahmed Tinubu  is not a magician.

    She made this remark the interdenominational church service to mark Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary in Abuja on Sunday.

    Speaking about the current reality of the nation, Mrs Tinubu explained that this administration inherited the situation on ground but noted that her husband is willing to fix them brick-by-brick without putting blame on the past administration.

    “All we inherited are things that happened years ago. We won’t put blame on any administration but to fix what has been damaged.

    “My husband is not a magician. He is going to work and I believe that we will have peace in this country. The best is yet to come to us,” she said.

    Also, George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) appealed to Nigerians to be patient as Nigeria’s problems cannot be resolved urgently as they had expected.

    “Solutions to Nigeria’s complex problems can never be as instant as expected. It will take some time, but measures are already being put in place to address them,” he said.

  • Former President Buhari hails PEPC verdict as victory for democracy

    Former President Buhari hails PEPC verdict as victory for democracy

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed satisfaction with the ruling of the Presidential Elections Petition Court (PEPC) confirming the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidates, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, in the February 25 election.

    The senior special adviser, media and publicity to the former president Garba Shehu, made this known in a statement on Thursday.

    Buhari commended the PEPC for its decision, stating that it had made history by upholding justice and respecting the wishes of the majority of citizens.

    He stressed that democracy and the people emerged as the true victors in this ruling.

    “If anybody has won today, it is democracy and the people. With the verdict of the Supreme Court, the election period is over, and it is time to put the heat and dust behind us.

    “From here, the new APC administration led by Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu should get the support of everyone in order to deliver the promises it made to the people,” Buhari said.

    He extended his warm congratulations to President Tinubu, Vice President Shettima, and the APC on their victory in court, offering his best wishes for their success in fulfilling the people’s aspirations.

    On Wednesday, the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal (PEPT) comprised of a 5-member panel of justices chaired by Justice Haruna Tsammani, affirmed Tinubu as the authentic winner of the 2023 presidential election.

  • Analysis: Key metrics that shaped President Tinubu’s First 100 Days

    Analysis: Key metrics that shaped President Tinubu’s First 100 Days

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s first 100 days in office, have been marked by bold decisions aimed at addressing the country’s longstanding economic issues, but they have also brought immediate challenges for Nigerians.

    The Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (Senate), Senator Abdullahi Gumel, pointing to various activities undertaken during this period, has lauded the President’s strong commitment to Nigeria’s renewed hope.

    Speaking at a news conference in Abuja, Gumel said: “The administration has stabilised the polity and reduced tensions associated with ethnic and religious agitations by better managing our diversity.

    “Tinubu ensured balance in all the appointments into key government positions including that of service chiefs from diverse parts of the country.

    The Fuel Subsidy Removal: A Controversial Move

    One of the defining actions of President Tinubu’s administration during his first 100 days was the removal of the fuel subsidy which he announced during his inaugural speech on May 29.

    The government views this as a necessary and courageous step to address a long-standing issue that has hindered economic growth.

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mallam Mohammed Idris, noted that the fuel subsidy regime had hung over Nigeria like a “Sword of Damocles” for decades, stunting the nation’s growth and forcing it into borrowing.

    Gumel, also stressed that “Tinubu’s courage to announce fuel subsidy removal on May 29 shows his determination to put Nigeria on the path of economic growth and sustainability.”

    However, the government’s failure to implement a mitigation plan for the repercussions of fuel subsidy removal led to the Nigeria Labour Congress initiating a two-day warning strike on Tuesday, to protest the significant hardship faced by many households.

    Gumel pointed out that President Tinubu was well aware of the challenges this move would bring and is actively working to mitigate them: “The N5 billion released to state governments and other measures being put in place to ensure that the impact of the subsidy removal was minimized are all evidence that he means well for Nigerians.”

    Economic Realignment

    In addition to the fuel subsidy removal, President Tinubu took steps to realign the Nigerian economy by unifying the multiple foreign exchange markets, a move aimed at bringing transparency and consistency to currency exchange.

    This decision, which has peaked the exchange rate at N920/USD, was seen as a necessary step to address the complexities and inconsistencies in the foreign exchange system.

    President Tinubu’s first 100 days also saw a strong commitment to economic diversification.

    To this end, a Tax and Fiscal Reforms Committee was established with a mandate that includes simplifying the tax system, eliminating multiple taxes, streamlining business regulations, and addressing the annual tax gap of over 20 trillion Naira.

    This initiative aims to create a more business-friendly environment and stimulate economic growth.

    From the government’s perspective, other major highlights of President Tinubu’s 100 days in office include efforts to cushion the effects of subsidy removal include raising minimum wages, supporting local governments, and providing assistance to vulnerable citizens.

    Others include: plans for over 11,000 CNG buses for affordable public transportation and discussions on modular refineries, swift appointment of ministers and service chiefs, efforts to attract foreign investment.

    Key Economic metrics 

    A comparison of some key economic indicators over the period under review provides insights into the economic situation of the country and the implications for citizens.

    These metrics which defined President Tinubu’s 100 days in office include: exchange rate, inflation, crude oil price, oil production, and fuel price in the country pre and post May 29.

    1. Exchange Rate: From N462/US$1 to N920/US$1

    The significant depreciation of the Nigerian Naira against the US Dollar means that it now takes more Naira to purchase one US Dollar.

    What this means is that imported goods and services become more expensive, Nigerians traveling abroad will need more Naira to exchange for foreign currencies, making foreign trips more costly, businesses that rely on imported inputs may face increased production costs, potentially leading to higher prices for their products.

    2. Inflation: From 22.41 per cent to 24.08 per cent

    The rise in inflation indicates a general increase in the prices of goods and services within President Tinubu’s first 100 days, resulting in reduced purchasing power for consumers and higher living costs, including food, housing, and healthcare expenses. Savings and fixed incomes also lose value.

    3. Crude Oil Production and Price:

    There was a slight decrease in oil production from 1.18 million barrels per day to 1.08 million barrels per day over the last 100 days even as crude oil prices rose from S$76 per barrel to US$92 per barrel, representing an opportunity for higher government revenue from oil exports and enhanced ability to fund infrastructure, social programs, and public services.

    4. GDP Growth Rate: From 2.31 per cent to 2.51 per cent

    While there was a modest increase in GDP growth, a stronger economy typically implies more job opportunities for citizens, increased investments and business activities and improved overall economic well-being.

  • Failing ministers would face the axe – Presidency

    Failing ministers would face the axe – Presidency

    The Special adviser to the President on Media and Publicity Ajuri Ngelale, has said President Bola Tinubu remains committed to achieving specific goals within each sector of the country and has a zero-tolerance policy for ministerial failure.

    Ngelale who was speaking during an interview on Channels Television on Monday, August 28, said utilized the interim period between his election as president-elect and his inauguration on May 29 to establish a series of reform committees across all sectors of the nation.

    The presidential spokesperson said these goals are part of a comprehensive plan aimed at building on the achievements of his predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari.

    Ngelale stressed that the President’s commitment does not stop at setting goals, adding that he is prepared to enforce these standards rigorously much like his tenure as the Governor of Lagos State, and will not be afraid to take swift and stern action to ensure that the desired results are achieved.

    He asserted: “The President has set the benchmarks. The question now is about enforcements and the President has shown, as he did during his time in Lagos State as governor, that he is not someone that is afraid to fire anybody.

    “He is not somebody that is afraid to levy quick sanctions to ensure that they get the results that he wants ’cause, ultimately, if this administration fails, they will not say a minister failed or a set of ministers failed. They will say President Bola Tinubu failed, and he will not accept failure.”

    Ngelale added that every incoming minister is acutely aware of their specific objectives and the timeframe allotted to them by the President.

    This level of clarity and accountability is a departure from previous Nigerian governance practices.