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Tag: President Bola Tinubu

  • Saudi Arabia Cancels Visa on Arrival for 264 Nigerians, Prompting Diplomatic Inquiry

    Saudi Arabia Cancels Visa on Arrival for 264 Nigerians, Prompting Diplomatic Inquiry

    By Milcah Tanimu

    In a surprising turn of events, Saudi Arabia has revoked the visa on arrival for 264 Nigerian passengers who arrived in the country aboard Air Peace from Kano. The Saudi Arabian authorities insisted that the passengers be returned to Nigeria, creating a ripple effect in Nigeria’s aviation and diplomatic circles.

    The cancellation occurred as President Bola Tinubu participated in the Arab-Africa summits in Saudi Arabia. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement, indicating that they are investigating the matter to determine if any consular or aviation rules were violated. The ministry affirmed its commitment to mitigating actions that could impact the welfare of Nigerian citizens in the future, aligning with President Tinubu’s 4-Ds strategy.

    While the Presidency acknowledged the situation, it stated that it was awaiting more information on the matter. The flight, originating from Lagos and transiting through Kano, had arrived in Jeddah without incident, but upon landing, Saudi authorities unexpectedly canceled all passengers’ visas.

    Speculation arises whether this move is a strategy to discourage Air Peace from operating to the destination, especially given the airline’s high load factor since commencing operations. The Nigerian embassy in Jeddah intervened, leading to a reduction in the number of passengers slated for return from 264 to 170.

    Stakeholders in the aviation sector see this development as aeropolitics, suggesting that it aims to force the Nigerian carrier out of the route. They emphasize the need for immediate intervention by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, advocating for strong government support for designated Nigerian carriers operating internationally.

    Industry expert Group Captain John Ojikutu emphasizes the importance of designating Nigerian airlines as flag carriers and urges the government to stand firmly behind Air Peace to uphold its rights as per the Bilateral Air Service Agreement with Saudi Arabia. The situation highlights the complexities of international aviation and the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve such issues.

  • Tinubu Appoints Dr. Olasupo Olusi as New MD of Bank of Industry

    Tinubu Appoints Dr. Olasupo Olusi as New MD of Bank of Industry

    By Daniel Edu

    ABUJA — President Bola Tinubu has given his approval for the appointment of Dr. Olasupo Olusi as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Bank of Industry (BOI). Dr. Olusi will serve a term of four (4) years in the first instance, according to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale. This appointment comes following the voluntary resignation of the former BOI Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Olukayode Pitan.

    Dr. Olasupo Olusi brings to this role a wealth of experience, having served as a World Bank economist and development finance expert for over two decades. He held the position of economic adviser to the then Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance from 2011 to 2015. Dr. Olusi is an alumnus of Hull University, United Kingdom, and has earned both a Master’s degree in International Money, Finance, and Investment, as well as a Doctorate in Finance & Economics from Durham University, United Kingdom, in 2005.

    The President has charged the new Chief Executive of BOI with the responsibility of ensuring that Nigerians engaged in enterprises of all sizes and across various sectors receive fair and equitable access to the crucial support needed to enhance employment opportunities and wealth creation among income groups in the country, with particular emphasis on lower and middle-income enterprise operators.

  • Tinubu Appoints Ahmed Aminu as PTDF’s Executive Secretary

    Tinubu Appoints Ahmed Aminu as PTDF’s Executive Secretary

    By Daniel Edu

    President Bola Tinubu has given his nod to the appointment of Ahmed Aminu as the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF). Aminu is set to assume this role for an initial term of four years.

    The newly appointed Executive Secretary/CEO of PTDF was previously the General Manager of the Education and Training Department within the organization. This appointment comes in the wake of the outgoing Executive Secretary/CEO, Bello Aliyu Gusau, submitting his request for retirement, signaling his intention to commence a 90-day pre-retirement leave starting from September 26, 2023.

    Additionally, President Tinubu has instructed Ahmed Galadima Aminu, the incoming Executive Secretary/CEO of PTDF, to serve in an acting capacity until he officially commences his new four-year term in office, which is slated to begin on December 26, 2023.

    Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, expressed the President’s well wishes for the new PTDF Executive Secretary/CEO as he takes on his responsibilities.

  • Tinubu Unveils Conditional Cash Transfer for 15 Million Households

    Tinubu Unveils Conditional Cash Transfer for 15 Million Households

    by Daniel Edu

    President Bola Tinubu has introduced the “Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer” program, aimed at assisting 15 million households. The official launch took place at the State House Press Gallery in Abuja on Tuesday, coinciding with World Poverty Eradication Day.

    Representing the President at the event was George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. Distinguished guests included Betta Edu, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Eradication; Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance; Shubham Chaudhuri, World Bank Country Director; and Matthias Schmale, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Nigeria, among other notable figures.

    In his Independence Day address to Nigerians on October 1, 2023, President Tinubu announced this cash transfer initiative, specifically targeting vulnerable citizens. According to the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, the 15 million households represent approximately 62 million Nigerians.

    Under the program, each beneficiary will receive a monthly transfer of N25,000 for three months, totaling N75,000 in assistance. Additionally, the minister revealed plans for another scheme, “Iya Loja Funds,” set to be launched soon, which will offer soft loans of N50,000 to support small traders.

    Moreover, as the next farming season begins, farmers will receive incentives to enhance their agricultural yields.

    The World Bank’s Country Director, Shubham Chaudhuri, pledged the organization’s support for the initiative. The Finance Minister announced the implementation of a biometric auditing system to ensure efficiency and transparency in the distribution of funds to beneficiaries.

  • Tinubu Appoints Dr. Musa Aliyu as ICPC Chairman

    Tinubu Appoints Dr. Musa Aliyu as ICPC Chairman

    By Daniel Edu

    STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

    President Bola Tinubu Appoints Fresh ICPC Leadership; Grants Pre-End of Tenure Leave to Outgoing Chairman

    In adherence to the authority vested in the President, as stipulated in Section 3(6) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000, and in line with the Renewed Hope initiative aimed at overhauling vital institutions and reinforcing Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, President Bola Tinubu has given his nod to the appointment of a new management team for the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), pending Senate confirmation:

    1. Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu — Chairman / Chief Executive Officer, ICPC
    2. Mr. Clifford Okwudiri Oparaodu — Secretary to the Commission, ICPC

    The nomination of the new ICPC Chairman is now set for Senate approval, following the President’s endorsement of the outgoing Chairman’s request to commence pre-end of tenure leave, starting November 4, 2023, ahead of the expiration of his tenure on February 3, 2024.

    Notably, the appointment of Mr. Clifford Okwudiri Oparaodu as Secretary of the Commission takes immediate effect and does not require Senate confirmation, as per the President’s directive.

    Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, who has been spearheading significant reforms as the Attorney General of Jigawa State since September 2019, boasts a robust educational background, holding Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees in Law. His dedication to public service was further recognized when he was designated as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria in October 2023.

    Meanwhile, Mr. Clifford Okwudiri Oparaodu, a legal practitioner with over three decades of experience, has a distinguished track record in the public sector, having served commendably as a member of the Rivers State Judicial Service Commission and as Chairman of the Caretaker Committee of Port Harcourt City Local Government Council.

    President Tinubu emphasizes the importance of the new ICPC management team maintaining unwavering integrity while carrying out their responsibilities, dealing with all matters impartially and without bias.

    Chief Ajuri Ngelale
    Special Adviser to the President

  • Tinubu Reinstates Formerly Sacked Postmaster General of NIPOST

    Tinubu Reinstates Formerly Sacked Postmaster General of NIPOST

    By Daniel Edu

    In a surprising turn of events, Mr. Sunday Adepoju, who had been previously removed from his position as the Postmaster General of the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST), has been reinstated by President Bola Tinubu. This announcement was made through NIPOST’s official social media handle on Saturday.

    The statement issued by NIPOST expressed Mr. Adepoju’s gratitude to President Tinubu and other key supporters for his reinstatement. Adepoju vowed to redouble his efforts in elevating NIPOST into a world-class digital postal service. He also committed to aligning his vision with that of the Federal Ministry of Communication, Innovation & Digital Economy to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.

    It’s worth noting that Mr. Adepoju was initially appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in October 2022. His reinstatement is seen as a testament to his leadership skills and unwavering commitment to public service.

    The statement further encouraged Nigerians to anticipate improved value and quality services from NIPOST. It also highlighted some of Mr. Adepoju’s accomplishments over the past year, which include the development of a modern digital postcode system, the integration of the Address Verification System (AVS), the procurement of 20 operational vehicles, and 100 motorbikes to enhance last-mile delivery. Additionally, several post offices have been remodeled to facilitate e-government and financial services.

  • “Tinubu’s Bold Move: FCT Breaks Free from Treasury Single Account Control!”

    “Tinubu’s Bold Move: FCT Breaks Free from Treasury Single Account Control!”

    By Daniel Edu

    President Bola Tinubu has made the strategic decision to withdraw the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) from the Treasury Single Account (TSA) arrangement.

    This significant move is anticipated to facilitate accelerated progress and development within the FCTA, now under the leadership of Nyesom Wike, by granting him greater financial autonomy and control.

    The announcement of this shift in financial management, which empowers Wike with more fiscal authority over the Federal Capital Territory, was made during a press conference held on Friday in Abuja.

    The Treasury Single Account, a policy introduced by the Federal Government in 2015, mandated that all government revenues be consolidated into a single account to enhance transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.

    Wike emphasized the need for this change by pointing out challenges faced by the FCT in terms of stalled growth, a backlog of projects without adequate financial backing, and limited financial flexibility due to adherence to the single treasury account system.

    “The city has not been developing as expected, with numerous projects left incomplete and awarded without sufficient financial support. Many of these projects date back to 2002. This situation is primarily because the government consolidated all its accounts into the central bank through the single treasury account,” Wike explained.

    He further elaborated, “Under the current system, even the central bank cannot provide us with loans, and the internally generated revenue is spent as it is earned, hindering our capacity to undertake tangible infrastructure projects. Consequently, I proposed to President Tinubu that if we desire the FCT to execute essential infrastructure projects effectively, it is imperative that we withdraw from the TSA.”

    Wike concluded with an optimistic outlook for the future, stating, “Beginning next year, you can expect to witness a surge in infrastructure projects within the FCT. What you witnessed in Port-Harcourt will pale in comparison. The challenges of insecurity, power outages, and inadequate road networks will soon be consigned to history, as we set forth on a path of comprehensive development in the region.”

  • ‘Interim Report on CBN Activities Submitted to President Tinubu by Special Investigator Jim Obazee’

    ‘Interim Report on CBN Activities Submitted to President Tinubu by Special Investigator Jim Obazee’

    By Daniel Edu

    President Bola Tinubu has received the interim report from Jim Obazee, the Special Investigator appointed to scrutinize the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Appointed on July 28, 2023, by President Tinubu, Obazee, former Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria, was tasked with investigating the activities of the CBN under its suspended governor, Godwin Emefiele, as part of the government’s ongoing anti-corruption efforts.

    In his letter of appointment, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of this inquiry and directed Obazee to collaborate with relevant security and anti-corruption agencies in conducting the investigation. Obazee’s scope extends beyond the CBN; he is also examining the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and other Government Business Entities, employing a team of skilled professionals for this purpose.

    Sources within the presidency, speaking anonymously to The Punch, confirmed the submission of the preliminary report. This interim document has reportedly led to significant changes in the leadership of the CBN. It is anticipated that the findings within this report will inform key decisions by President Tinubu, paving the way for the country’s progress.

    Currently, the president and his team are meticulously reviewing the report, aiming to arrive at a well-considered decision in the near future.

  • Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim: Nigeria’s New Minister of Youth

    Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim: Nigeria’s New Minister of Youth

    By Daniel Edu

    President Bola Tinubu has made a significant appointment by naming Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim as the new minister responsible for the Ministry of Youth. This announcement was made through a statement released by Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity. It is important to note that her appointment is subject to confirmation by the Senate.

    Here’s a glimpse into the profile of Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim:

    1. **Background**: Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim is a 37-year-old medical doctor, politician, and development practitioner. She has a deep commitment to public service and is a strong advocate for the United Nations Global Goals.

    2. **Previous Roles**: Before this appointment, she served as the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Kwara State on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She hails from a family with a history of political involvement, being the daughter of Ibrahim Isa Bio, who held various ministerial positions and legislative roles.

    3. **Political Engagement**: Dr. Ibrahim was the National President of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Young Women Forum (APC PYWF), demonstrating her active involvement in the political landscape.

    4. **Health Advocacy**: She previously served as the Senior Special Assistant on Health matters to the Governor of Kwara State, indicating her dedication to healthcare and well-being.

    5. **Humanitarian Work**: Dr. Jamila volunteered in the northeastern region of Nigeria as part of The Presidential Committee on the NorthEast initiative. Her work involved supporting vulnerable and internally displaced persons in the region. She also contributed to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s campaign during the 2019 general election.

    6. **Awards and Recognitions**: She has received several awards and recognitions for her contributions, including the Clean Nigeria Ambassador award for her work in the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene sector. Additionally, she was honored with the UN Peace Ambassador award by the International Association of World Peace Advocates and a Distinguished honorary award for her contributions to Education and SDGs, supported by UNESCO Nigeria.

    7. **International Representation**: Dr. Jamila has represented Nigeria and Kwara State as a speaker on international platforms such as the United Nations and the African Union, showcasing her commitment to global issues.

    With her diverse background, commitment to development, and extensive experience in both healthcare and politics, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim brings a wealth of expertise to her new role as Nigeria’s Minister of Youth.

  • Soyinka: Atiku and Obi’s Split Helped Tinubu Win Presidential Election

    Soyinka: Atiku and Obi’s Split Helped Tinubu Win Presidential Election

    By Daniel Edu

    Renowned Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has asserted that President Bola Tinubu’s electoral triumph was facilitated by the decision of the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to diverge from his former running mate, Atiku Abubakar, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    Soyinka made these remarks during a dialogue hosted by ‘Africa in the World’ in Stellenbosch, South Africa, as per a statement released on Saturday.

    In his address, Soyinka urged politicians to embrace accountability for the repercussions of their decisions. He debunked the notion that the recent Nigerian elections were a contentious spectacle, emphasizing that the ballot results reflected the outcome when a political party splits so close to an election.

    Soyinka characterized the situation as a “Feast of Voluntary Donation of the spoils of war,” wherein political adversaries voluntarily contribute to the victory of one candidate over another. He also alluded to the notion of an “Interim Peoples Party” (IPP), which often aligns with the military, and highlighted the possibility of a repeated cycle of political events.

    He concluded by stating that the ultimate judgment rests with the Supreme Court, and that politicians should accept responsibility for their choices within democratic processes.

    During the event, Soyinka accused the Labour Party of attempting to mislead Nigerians about the election’s outcome.

    In response, the National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party, Abayomi Arabambi, concurred with Soyinka’s assertion that Obi did not win the election. Arabambi described the reactions from his factional Chairman, Julius Abure, as disrespectful and impertinent.

    He emphasized that the claim of victory without concrete evidence was baseless, and he criticized the expectation that the actual winner would be disqualified to pave the way for a third-place candidate to emerge as the victor.

    Arabambi also highlighted that Obi’s use of Igbo state coordinators during the campaign in the north was indicative of their intentions from the outset.