Category: Press Release

Residents of Oyo State have been assured of even distribution of rehabilitation, as the Oyo State Road Maintenance Agency, OYSROMA, continues to make efforts to rehabilitate roads in the State.

The Chairman, OYSROMA, Mr. Raphael Ogunlade gave the assurance in Ibadan while inspecting some ongoing rehabilitation projects on Thursday.

There have been numerous concerns from Oyo residents in other zones regarding the ongoing rehabilitation in the state, if it will be extended to all zones in Oyo state.

Responding to the enquiries, Ogunlade said “Governor Seyi Makinde has assured the residents of Oyo state that this rehabilitation process is not only going to be done in Ibadan but will definitely extend to other zones till the whole Oyo state is covered.”

Ogunlade, quoting the governor said, “he re-emphasised this at the Mobil – Akala road commissioning some months ago where he categorically mentioned that rehabilitation process like this will also be extended to Oyo, Ogbomosho and other zones, and he pleaded with Oyo state residents to exercise more patience as their convenience is him and his cabinets’ top priority.”

The OYSROMA Chairman while inspecting a just concluded project, commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his diligent efforts towards giving Oyo state the best road network and for giving listening ears and support to OYSROMA in making these projects a success.

The chairman also assured the people that the rehabilitation exercise involves all the bridges damaged by the recent heavy rainfall, adding that they will be reconstructed as directed by His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde

“We are grateful to our Governor for his consistent effort in giving Oyo state the best in every sector and his commitment to this dream of making Oyo state roads the best in the country. We will also appreciate the residents of Oyo state for their continuous understanding and appreciate if they can be a bit more patient as every demand concerning Oyo state roads will be attended to as soon as possible”, he said.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information and Orientation,

Oyo State.

October  25, 2024. 

…as First Ladies, female party leaders, others storm Abuja for gender bills

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D, has stressed the need to empower women, noting that it is a necessary, strategic move for economic growth.

Speaker Abbas said it is disheartening that females are low in numbers at the National Assembly.

The Speaker made these points in his keynote address at the International Legislative Dialogue on Women and the Constitution Amendment Process in Nigeria, which was organised by the House Committee on the Review of the Constitution in Abuja on Monday.

Physically present or represented at the event were presiding and principal officers of the National Assembly, ministers, female party and forum leaders, gender-based civil society organisations, members of the diplomatic corps, among others.

The attendees include the Deputy Speaker and Chairman, House Committee on Constitution Review, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu; wife of Kwara State Governor and Chairperson, Nigerian Governors’ Spouses Forum, Amb. Prof. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, who represented the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly and Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye.

Also in attendance were the Resident Representative, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Elsie Attafuah; Deputy Ambassador, European Union Delegation to Nigeria & the ECOWAS, Mr. Zissimos Vergos; and the Executive Director, Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), Clement Nwankwo.

Others were the Speaker, Parliament of Tanzania & President, Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Tulia Ackson; and Member, Parliament of the Republic of South Africa, MP Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, among others.

“Today represents a meaningful step forward in our collective commitment to inclusive governance and national progress,” Speaker Abbas stated, while noting that the dialogue was “not for rhetoric but to establish a clear and actionable path toward meaningful reform.”

He said: “Our goal is to ensure that Nigerian women, an essential part of our nation’s social and economic fabric, secure their rightful place within our governance framework. Empowering women is not only a moral and democratic imperative but also a strategic economic necessity.”

The Speaker referenced researches from global institutions, including the United Nations and the World Economic Forum, which show that organisations and countries benefit from better decision-making, stronger economic growth, and enhanced social well-being when women hold leadership roles.

Speaker Abbas said: “Women bring unique perspectives influencing vital issues, from healthcare to economic policy, creating legislation that resonates with millions. McKinsey estimates that closing gender gaps could add $12 trillion to the global GDP by 2025, underscoring the immense untapped potential of women’s inclusion. Thus, increased representation of women is not a luxury but a necessity for sustainable national development and stability.

“Around the world, and particularly in Africa, we see encouraging examples of gender inclusion. Rwanda, with over 60 percent women representation in its parliament, has shown us that robust, intentional policies work. South Africa, Namibia, and Senegal have all taken significant strides toward inclusivity, reshaping their political landscapes in ways Nigeria can learn from. These countries have demonstrated the profound impact of women’s perspectives on governance and development.

“For Nigeria, the current numbers are disheartening. Since 1999, women’s representation in our National Assembly has remained disappointingly low. Despite notable contributions from Nigerian women across various sectors, only 20 of the 469 seats in our National Assembly are occupied by women. This stark gap speaks not of a lack of capable women, but of institutional barriers we must dismantle.”

While noting that some view increased women’s representation as a threat to the status quo, Speaker Abbas noted that “inclusion is not displacement—it is partnership.”

He added that women’s presence complements the contributions of men, enriching the policymaking process. “If we trust women to shape our homes, nurture our families, and educate our children, we must trust them to contribute to shaping our nation’s future,” he stressed.

While pointing out that affirmative action policies to increase women’s representation are not undemocratic, the Speaker said on the contrary, they are deeply aligned with democratic principles.

Speaker Abbas noted: “As lawmakers, we are responsible for advancing policies that reflect the values of fairness and equity. I am proud to state that this 10th House has prioritised inclusivity in our Legislative Agenda. I have directed the Constitution Review Committee to focus on reforms that promote gender equity and provide additional or reserved seats for women in our legislative bodies.

“We must work towards joint ticketing in elections, reserved seats, and conferring equal citizenship rights to foreigners married to Nigerian women. However, reform is a collective responsibility, and we cannot simply issue communiqués or promises. We must translate today’s dialogue into real, actionable outcomes.”

Signed:

Musa Abdullahi Krishi
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Sunday Akin Dare, appointed as the Special Adviser on Public Communication and Orientation by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on October 23, 2024, served as the Nigerian Minister of Youth & Sports from 2019 to 2023.

He previously held the position of Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management at the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) between 2016 and 2019, where he managed the NCC’s interactions with public and private sector stakeholders.

He was the Chief of Staff/Special Adviser on media to President Tinubu when he was the leader of the APC.

In 2009, Dare was appointed Senior Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and Communications. In this role, he managed media-related decisions, public information dissemination, and media policies under the Ministry’s jurisdiction.

Between 2001 and 2009, Dare served as Chief of the Hausa Service, African Division at Voice of America (VOA) in Washington, DC, where he managed various portfolios, including the daily production of radio and online broadcast programs.

He also led a team of international journalists based in Washington, DC, and correspondents in West Africa for Voice of America.

He was a correspondent for The Nation magazine in New York and as a production editor for the European-backed Fourth Estate magazine during Nigeria’s military interregnum. He was also part of the founding team of Nigerian weekly magazines, The News and Tempo.

Academic records

• London School of Economics, LSE Strategic Communications.
• Oxford University, UK Academic Research Fellow.
• Harvard University Cambridge, Boston Massachusetts, USA Journalism and New Media Studies Nieman Journalism Fellowship
• New York University Freedom Forum Fellow Visiting Scholar, School of Journalism
• University of Jos Masters in International Law and Diplomacy
• Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna, Nigeria Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) Degree in International Studies
• Member, Nigerian Institute of Public Relations. NIPR. (BEEC)
• Oyo States College of Arts and Science, (OSCARS) Ile-Ife. Nigeria. Advanced Level Studies in Fields of Government, Economics and Geography
• Baptist High School, Jos, Nigeria West African Examination Council (WAEC)

Books and Publications

• Making a Killing-The Business of War

Public Integrity Books, Washington DC (March 2003)

(In 2003 Won the Sigma Delta Chi Online Research Award of the Society For Professional Journalists, SPJ)

• Guerrilla Journalism: Dispatches from the Underground.

Xilibris Corporation, USA. (March 2007)

• We Are All Journalists- Africa in the Age Of Social Media.

(Oxford University approved academic research) 2011

• Datelines – A Journalist’s Narrative

May, 2016

Awards

• 2010, Selected As One of The 50 Leading Nigerians in North America -in Commemoration of Nigeria’s 50th Anniversary
• 2000, Committee to Protect Journalists, CPJ, New York-Special Citation for Courage
• 2009-Awarded Voice of America Meritorious Honor Award in recognition of skilful leadership, outstanding performance, and contribution in accomplishing the VOA mission by making the Hausa program one of the most impactful broadcasts in the target area.
• In 2004, awarded VOA Silver Medal in “recognition of extraordinary contributions towards the accomplishment of the mission and goal of the agency.”
• In 2003, awarded VOA Quality Step Increase in “recognition of sustained high quality performance of official duties.”
• In 1996, awarded the “Best Correspondent Award” for coverage of Political developments under Nigeria’s brutal military dictatorships.
• Member of the International Committee to Protect Journalists Citation in 2000 in New York City.

Press Statement from the Office of the Speaker, House of Representatives

October 16, 2024

Speaker Abbas Laments Deaths, Injuries in Jigawa Tanker Explosion

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of approximately 100 individuals following a Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) tanker explosion in Jigawa State.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, Speaker Abbas described the incident as tragic and unfortunate.

Scores of victims were confirmed dead after a tanker carrying petrol exploded in Majiya town, Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State, on Tuesday night. Over 50 others sustained various degrees of injuries and were hospitalized at Ringim General Hospital.

Reports indicate that the driver lost control of the tanker, which had left Kano en route to Nguru in Yobe State, resulting in the accident.

The Speaker lamented the loss of life and injuries, calling the incident terrifying. He extended condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for a swift recovery for the injured.

Speaker Abbas prayed for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives.

Signed:

Musa Abdullahi Krishi
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

 

President Bola Tinubu has expressed unwavering support for his long-time political ally, Senator George Akume, who currently serves as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF). Speaking through the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, during a wedding ceremony in Makurdi, President Tinubu reaffirmed his deep political connection with Senator Akume and praised his leadership.

“Mr. President thanks the people of Benue for their continuous support. He is proud of Senator Akume, a trusted political ally. The church is with George Akume, I am with George Akume, and Mr. President is with George Akume,” Ribadu stated, emphasizing Tinubu’s strong backing and confidence in Akume’s leadership and service.

This statement underscores the enduring relationship between Tinubu and Akume, highlighting Tinubu’s appreciation for Akume’s contributions to national service and his role as a key figure in the current administration.

The remarks were warmly received by attendees, further solidifying Akume’s standing within both the political sphere and his community.

…as lawmakers seek enforcement of child laws, passage of gender bills, and an end to drug abuse and the plight of out-of-school children

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., made history on Thursday by vacating his seat in plenary to honour the girl-child. He handed the gavel to 16-year-old gender advocate Ms. Isabel Anani, who conducted a special session commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child.

This unprecedented move marks the first time a sitting Speaker has allowed a non-member to preside over plenary. Members resumed with a ceremonial session, and Speaker Abbas introduced Ms. Anani, who was accompanied by female students from various schools in the Federal Capital Territory. These students were brought to the ceremony by the non-governmental organization, Plan International Nigeria.

While the United Nations designates October 11 as the International Day for the Girl Child, the Speaker called for significant recognition of the girl-child during the last sitting of the week.

Before vacating his seat, Speaker Abbas stated: “Honourable Members of the House of Representatives, I am pleased to announce that today, the 10th of October, the House joins the global community in commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child. This day highlights the challenges faced by girls around the world while celebrating their resilience, potential, and crucial role in shaping a better future.

“In recognition of this special occasion, we welcome girls from public secondary schools across the Federal Capital Territory, who are present today to observe our proceedings. Their presence reminds us of the importance of investing in the education and empowerment of young girls in Nigeria.

“Furthermore, the House is proud to introduce Ms. Isabel Anani, our ‘Speaker for the Day.’ Isabel is a remarkable young leader and a Girl Advocate for Gender Equality. She is the youngest member of the Technical Working Group for Adolescent Health and Wellbeing in Nigeria, as well as a UNICEF Young Influencer. Isabel was chosen for this prestigious role after emerging first among candidates across Nigeria following an open call and a rigorous interview process.

“Throughout the day, she will shadow me during today’s plenary session and in meetings as part of our effort to empower young leaders. In the spirit of this celebration, I call on all Honourable Members to join me in a round of applause for Isabel and for all Nigerian girls who continue to demonstrate immense strength, ambition, and determination in overcoming barriers.”

As the ‘Shadow Speaker,’ Isabel presided over the presentation of a motion by the Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, titled ‘Commemoration of the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child.’ The motion was seconded by Hon. Akin Rotimi, Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs.

Unanimously adopting the motion, the House resolved to urge the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Orientation Agency (NOA), along with other stakeholders, to collaborate with schools, community organizations, and religious institutions to educate the public on the dangers of drug abuse and promote a drug-free lifestyle, as well as to provide rehabilitation services.

The House also urged the Federal Ministry of Education to devise practical ways, such as implementing mobile education units or community outreach programs, to educate out-of-school girls across the 36 states of the federation.

Additionally, the House called on the leadership of the National Assembly to amend the Child Rights Act to provide better protection for sexually abused children and to ensure the necessary legislative support through budgetary approvals for the concerned ministries. They also urged the domestication of the Child Rights Act throughout the nation via the conference of speakers.

Furthermore, the House called for the swift passage of bills aimed at protecting women and girls, such as the Gender and Equal Opportunities Bill (GEOB).

Consequently, the ‘Shadow Speaker’ mandated the House Committees on Women Affairs and Social Development and Basic Education and Services to engage the NDLEA, Federal Ministry of Education, NOA, and other stakeholders by organizing workshops, creating awareness campaigns, and monitoring progress to ensure compliance.

Addressing the House, Ms. Anani, winner of the Girl Takeover Initiative who has just gained university admission to study engineering, stated: “For me, I envision a future where every girl, regardless of where she comes from, has the opportunity to flourish; where education isn’t seen as a high-pedestal privilege but as an essential tool to equip girls to make important decisions that affect them and their communities.

“I want a future where we don’t have to combat overwhelming experiences of childhood and adolescence alone; where girls aren’t discriminated against because of their bodily functions and are encouraged when they want to take charge in areas like STEM and politics, feeling safe and wanted.

“As an aspiring woman in STEM, I know what it is like to be the only girl in male-dominated spaces. However, I don’t want to be the only girl. I want to be one of many. I envision a future where the healthcare system for girls isn’t compromised due to socio-cultural factors that wrongfully exist.

“Now more than ever, we need girls to combat issues like climate change, political conflict, economic decline, diseases, and global unrest. We must ensure that every girl has access to healthcare that meets her needs; access to quality education that enables her to reach her potential; and safety from violence and harmful practices that affect her physically, emotionally, and mentally.

“How can she take charge when she lives in constant fear? How can she dream when she worries about her next meal? Most importantly, she needs support because we all have a role to play.”

According to the UN, the theme for the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child is “Girls’ Vision for the Future.” The global body states on its website, “This year’s theme conveys both the need for urgent action and persistent hope, driven by the power of girls’ voices and vision for the future.”

Signed:
Musa Abdullahi Krishi
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Emir of Zazzau, His Royal Highness, Amb. Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, as he marks his fourth anniversary on the throne.

As a prince of the Zazzau Emirate who holds the traditional title of Iyan Zazzau, Speaker Abbas praised Emir Bamalli for his exemplary leadership and dedication to fostering peace and unity among Nigerians, particularly within Kaduna State.

In his statement, Speaker Abbas emphasized the significance of Emir Bamalli’s role as the Chairman of the Kaduna State Council of Traditional Rulers, noting that the people of the Zazzau Emirate are fortunate to have him as their foremost traditional ruler.

“I join the great people of the Zazzau Emirate in congratulating our Emir, His Royal Highness, Amb. Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, on his fourth anniversary on the throne,” he stated. “I am particularly delighted that our Emir embodies peace, unity, and prosperity for all Nigerians. In just four years, His Royal Highness has proven to be a compassionate leader, providing exemplary guidance.”

The Speaker expressed pride in the leadership demonstrated by Emir Bamalli and wished him many more years of success on the throne, along with sound health.

 

…says the President is a listening leader

The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for correcting the mistakes of the past by according the House its constitutional status in coffering the Speaker with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON).

President Tinubu had during his Independence Day Anniversary address to Nigerians on Tuesday, October 1, announced the conferment of the Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFR) on the Speaker and GCON on the President of the Senate and the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).

On Wednesday, the House, through a motion by Hon. Philip Agbese and 249 others, called on the President to correct past mistakes by according the House the same status as the Senate in the conferment of the National Honours.

The House had decried the discrimination it had suffered over the years not just regarding the National Honours but also in some quarters, where a segment of Nigerians referred to it as the “lower chamber” even when the constitution places both chambers of the National Assembly on the same pedestal.

Following the resolution of the House, President Tinubu on Friday night through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, announced the withdrawal of the CFR honour and conferment of the GCON on the Speaker.

Mr. Onanuga said, “President Tinubu was persuaded by the House of Representatives position and has decided to remedy the historical error and oversight. Thus, he has decided to upgrade the Speaker to GCON from CFR, in accordance with the National Order of Precedence.”

Speaker Abbas, in a press statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, said President Tinubu has demonstrated good leadership in his action.

“I thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for correcting the mistakes by past administrations of not according the House its constitutional recognition. The President has once again demonstrated his democratic credentials of being a true democrat, an objective and a listening leader.

“With this development, Nigeria and indeed the world, now know that the House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has the same status as its sister chamber, the Senate, and is treated as such.

“I thank the President for heeding the voices of reasoning from the House and other well-meaning Nigerians,” the Speaker said.

Speaker Abbas equally congratulated the 10th House of Representatives “for this historic achievement.”

He thanked his colleagues for rising against the age-long discrimination of the House, which he said has been corrected through their efforts.

Signed:

Musa Abdullahi Krishi
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

…Calls for Quality Assurance in Public Schools

…Encourages Unity, Patriotism, and Hard Work on His 59th Birthday

In celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary and his 59th birthday, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., reached out to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the Kabusa community of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Tuesday.

Leading a delegation that included Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu and Chief Whip Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, Speaker Abbas expressed his concern for the plight of the IDPs. He distributed 1,000 bags of 10kg rice, 200 cartons of noodles, over 800 articles of clothing for men and women, and bedsheets to the displaced individuals.

The humanitarian effort was supported by the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). Additionally, free medical services were provided to IDPs suffering from various ailments.

Earlier in the day, Speaker Abbas hosted students from six public secondary schools in the FCT for an interactive session, where he addressed their questions. He emphasized the need for prioritizing adequate supervision and quality assurance in public schools to restore the education sector to its former glory.

He expressed concern over the proliferation of private schools, stating that it has contributed to a decline in public school standards. “Even teachers in public schools now send their children to private schools because they lack confidence in the education provided in public institutions,” he noted.

Reflecting on past educational practices, Speaker Abbas remarked, “When we were growing up, there were no private schools; everyone, including high-ranking officials, sent their children to public schools, which ensured strict supervision and high standards.”

The Speaker urged students to embrace hard work as a form of patriotism. He cautioned against the temptation to seek shortcuts to success, advising them to pay attention to details and follow due processes. “Believe in yourself and work hard; it worked for me,” he said.

Sharing his personal journey, Speaker Abbas recounted how he became self-reliant at a young age, securing his first home at 19 without financial assistance from his parents. “I went straight into teaching after secondary school and never sought help from my parents again,” he recalled.

He also stressed the importance of unity among Nigerians, urging students to love their country and each other, transcending ethnic and religious divides. “When you love your neighbor as yourself, you foster meaningful relationships and true patriotism,” he said.

The students from the six Area Councils of the FCT presented various technological innovations as birthday gifts to the Speaker during the interaction.

Signed:

Musa Abdullahi Krishi
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria

As Nigeria marked its 64th independence anniversary, renowned basketball promoter and founder of the Mark D’ Ball Basketball Championship, Igoche Mark, highlighted the vital role sports have played in shaping the nation’s image since 1960.

Mark urged the Federal Government to prioritize sports, viewing it not just as a recreational activity, but as a viable business and career opportunity. He emphasized the success of Nigerian athletes on the global stage, which showcases the country’s talent and potential.

“Sports have been Nigeria’s image marker since independence. Investing in sports and supporting athletes can enhance our reputation and create opportunities for the youth,” Mark stated.

His vision for sports-driven positive change and development resonated with many. Through his unwavering commitment to basketball, Mark hopes to inspire others to champion the transformative power of sports in Nigeria.

As the nation continues its independence celebrations, Igoche Mark’s message stands as a call to action. By embracing sports as a catalyst for positive change, Nigeria can unlock its full potential and pave the way for a brighter future.