LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR
PRESS RELEASE

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday said he would not interfere with the ongoing selection process that would lead to the appointment of the substantive Vice Chancellor of the state-owned Lagos State University (LASU).

The Governor said he does not have personal interest in who becomes the next Vice Chancellor of LASU and therefore has no intention to influence the process, adding that due process would be followed in the appointment.

Governor Sanwo-Olu made the statement while receiving members of the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities (CVCNU) led by its chairman, Prof. Samuel Edoumiekumo, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Lagos House, Ikeja on Tuesday.

“The process for the appointment of the substantive Vice Chancellor of the Lagos State University (LASU) is ongoing and I can assure you that all the laws and due process that would lead to the appointment of the vice chancellor would be fully adhered to.

“I have no intention to interfere or have any interest in the choice of who would be vice chancellor. We have put in the committee men and women of impeccable character that have distinguished themselves and are willing to do for us a good job,” he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who promised adequate and continuous funding for state-owned tertiary institutions in Lagos State, said plans were in top gear to establish two additional universities of technology and education in the State.

The Governor also promised to assist the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities to get back the title documents of its property situated at Idowu Taylor Street, Victoria Island in Lagos, saying the property would be released to the Committee at no cost.

He said Lagos State Government will support the Committee on its forthcoming 60th anniversary celebration holding next year.

Speaking earlier, Prof. Edoumiekumo commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for rising to the occasion when COVID-19 pandemic ravaged the state and for delivering dividends of democracy to the people of Lagos State in different sectors.

He said the ongoing metro rail system and the proposed 38 kilometres long Fourth Mainland bridge project, which according to him is one of the single most significant infrastructure projects undertaken by a state government in Nigeria, are testimonies of a thoroughly focused government.

The Chairman of CVCNU said Governor Sanwo-Olu’s support as the Visitor to the Lagos State University is commendable and called for the Lagos State Government’s support for the forthcoming 60th anniversary of the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities.

“As Nigeria’s economic and social powerhouse, Lagos is arguably a mini-Nigeria and leader in its federation of states. Lagos sets the agenda and leads other states to emulate in economic development, innovation, good governance and education,” he said.

Prof. Edoumiekumo said the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities is desirous of working with key stakeholders to improve the Nigeria University system and therefore seek for mutually rewarded partnership with Lagos State Government and the people in that regard.

SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
SEPTEMBER 7, 2021

NOTICE OF 93rd NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (NEC) MEETING:
This is to invite all members of PDP National Executive Committee to the 93rd NEC Meeting scheduled as follows:
Date: Thursday September 09, 2021
Venue: NEC Hall PDP HQ, Wadata Plaza, Abuja FCT
Time: 11 AM prompt
All members are kindly advised to note that the Anambra National Campaign Council will be inaugurated during the open session of the Meeting.
All members are enjoined to attend please.
Sen. Umaru Ibrahim Tsauri, CON
National Secretary, PDP

SAUDI ARABIA HAS BEEN KIND TO US, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI IN MEETING WITH SAUDI MINISTER
President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday played host to the Saudi Arabian Minister of Foreign Affairs at State House, Abuja, declaring that the oil rich kingdom has been quite kind to Nigeria.
Receiving HRH Prince Faisal Bin Farhan Al-Saud, the President said with Nigeria’s large population and infrastructural deficit, the country needed all the revenue she could get from oil, a mainstay of the economy, “and Saudi Arabia has been very kind to us, making sacrifice by reducing production to accommodate us a number of times.”
President Buhari noted that the relationship between the two countries is very strong, “and dates back in time, both at the personal and national levels.”
“It is long and steadfast,” the President added.
Prince Al-Saud brought greetings from King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, saying the Kingdom appreciates the relationship with Nigeria, “which dates back 61 years, and we want to strengthen it even further.”
The two countries, he said, have good prospects both economically and politically, not just among the leaders, but also the people.
“There’s still a lot we can do together,” the Prince submitted.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
September 7, 2021

PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS EMIR OF SULEJA, ALHAJI MOHAMMED AWWAL IBRAHIM ON 80TH BIRTHDAY
President Muhammadu Buhari warmly congratulates Emir of Suleja, Alhaji Mohammed Awwal Ibrahim, on his 80th birthday, September 8, 2021, joining family and friends to celebrate with the traditional ruler on the auspicious occasion.
The President felicitates with Niger State Traditional Council, Suleja Emirate Council and all indigenes on the milestone, which highlights the career of Emir of Suleja, starting out as lecturer, registrar, permanent secretary and joining the political fray to be first elected Governor of Niger State in 1979.
President Buhari believes Alhaji Ibrahim’s extensive work experience, serving in many capacities in public service, remains an asset to his community, state and the country, commending his diligence, discipline and focus in delivering results.
As the royal father turns an octogenarian, the President notes his contributions to nation building, which includes accepting to serve as Chairman of the Niger State Government’s Committee on Reformation of Almajirci, further revealing his passion for education.
The President prays that the Almighty God will grant the Emir of Suleja longer life, good health and strength to continue in good works.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 7, 2021

Ayade mourns General Ukpo, describes death as monumental loss to Cross River, Nigeria

Cross River state governor, Sir Ben Ayade has lamented the death of one – time Military Administrator of Rivers state, Brigadier-General Anthony Ukpo (rtd).

General Ukpo who was also a former Minister of Information died on Monday.

Late Gen. Anthony Ukpo, former Military Governor of Rivers state.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Christian Ita, the governor described the General’s transition as a tragic and mounememtal loss to Cross River in particular and Nigeria in general.

Ayade commiserated with General Ukpo’s family and the military, saying, “an illustrous son, a fine and gallant officer has left us.

“As a state, we are pained by the loss of this thorough bred officer, an illustrous son of Cross River.

“General Ukpo’s death has robbed our dear state of his wise counsel. He was forthright and a partner in building a Cross River of our dream.”

Continuing, the Cross River state governor recalled that the late General Ukpo applied himself diligently and dutifully to all the national assignments enthrusted to him to the applause of his superiors.

“As a military officer, General Ukpo had a distinguished career, as a Military Administrator he excelled beyond expectations and as a Minister he showed passion and professionalism. He left these offices without blemish. He was a rare gem.

“We are indeed hurt by his demise, we are pained that General Ukpo had to leave us at this time but as a people of faith, we cannot question God. We can only pray for the peaceful repose of his soul.

“On behalf of the people and government of Cross River state, I condole with General Ukpo’s family, his immediate community, Okpoma and the Nigerian Army.“

While assuring the Ukpo family that his prayer and thoughts are with them at this trying moment, the governor prayed God to “grant all of us the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR
PRESS RELEASE

SANWO-OLU EMPOWERS ARTISANS WITH MODERN WORKING TOOLS, AS LAGOS GRADUATES 2,000 IN UP-SKILL PROGRAMME

• 76-Year-Old Brick Maker among Beneficiaries

• Governor Donates Free Land in Badagry for Industrial Skill Hub

For Pa Fawole Johnson Alade, there is no age too old to learn. The 76-year-old concrete and block craftsman from Igbogbo-Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA) makes the list of graduands churned out by the Lagos State Government, on Tuesday, in its up-skill programme for tradesmen and artisans in informal sector.

No fewer than 2,000 artisans from all traditional divisions of Lagos had their skills modernised and upgraded in the eight-week intensive training organised by Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at the graduation ceremony held at LTV Blue Roof in Agidingbi, empowered all the trainees with technological tools and equipment to facilitate their transition into modern practice in their respective vocations.

The event also commemorated the yearly Tradesmen and Artisans’ Day.

The trainees were nominated for the capacity building programme by Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans (LASCOTA), the umbrella body for all traders’ associations in the State.

Sanwo-Olu said the Government embarked on the up-skilling and trade enhancement programme for the artisans, given the contributions of the informal sector to the State’s economic growth.

The Governor said the training was to equip the participants with contemporary skillset and tools in order to make them in tune with changing dynamics in their chosen vocations.

He said: “Our administration places premium on participatory governance, just as we strongly believe Government and private sector must work together to transform the State’s economy. It is not in doubt that technology and innovation are the bedrock of economic development. The transition from the agricultural age to the Industrial Age to the Digital Age has been underlined by waves of innovation that emerge to disrupt an established order and replace it with a new way of doing things.

“As a forward-looking Government, we cannot afford to ignore the rapid pace of change in the 21st century. Lagos’ artisans cannot afford to be left behind. It is our abiding commitment to ensuring that our Micro, Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (MSMEs) grow and flourish. This is why we are equipping our artisans with contemporary skills and incorporating technological innovation into their practice to stay in tune with emerging trends from around the world.”

To build a dynamic economy for the State, Sanwo-Olu said there was a need for optimisation of values provided by skilled workers, while also training the under-skilled segments of the workforce.

The Governor said his administration would continue to create enabling environment for artisans and tradesmen to thrive, promising continuous investment in programmes that would impact their lives and improve earnings from their crafts.

He said: “For the 2000 re-trained tradesmen and artisans who are graduating today, let me remind you that the strategic position of Lagos offers you limitless opportunities to achieve your dreams, as the State contributes a quarter of the national GDP, and is by extension the fifth largest economy in Africa. Your training has, therefore, been designed to provide you with the right mix of skills needed to service the rapidly growing industrial needs of our State.”

Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Mrs. Yetunde Ariobeke, said the up-skill programme was part of the empowerment opportunities initiated by the Sanwo-Olu administration for residents in informal sector in which 4,500 had benefited.

She said the training was packaged with technical support from BOSCH Nigeria, which taught the participants on how to use various technological tools. The training and provision of equipment, the Commissioner said, are to address the challenge of obsoleteness of equipment at the disposal of artisans in the State.

“The informal sector is the engine that drives the economy. It, therefore, becomes imperative for Lagos artisans to work towards the realisation of a common purpose which is creating 21st century artisans for sustainable economic growth. In line with our mandate, we have continued to foster the creation of an enabling environment for our artisans through access to market, capital and capacity building by partnering with the private sector by way of impact investment,” Arobieke said.

President of LASCOTA, Mr. Nurudeen Buhari, said the capacity building would provide competitive advantage for the participants in the vocations, praising the Governor for the opportunity.

Buhari used the occasion to remind the Governor of the association’s request for secretariat and industrial skill centre for the artisans.

In response, Sanwo-Olu donated three hectares in Badagry to LASCOTA to build its secretariat and the industrial skill hub.

The best graduating artisan from the Ikorodu centre, Mr. Ariwoola Olagoke, an Estate Management technician, conveyed the participants’ appreciation to the State Government for the empowerment that also afforded them the opportunity to upgrade their skills.

SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
SEPTEMBER 7, 2021

PRESIDENT BUHARI SEEKS ROTARY CLUB’S SUPPORT FOR VACCINATION DRIVE
President Muhammadu Buhari Monday in Abuja said the Federal Government will continue drawing from the expertise, partnership and consistency learnt from the eradication of Polio in the country to strengthen the health sector.
President Buhari, who received Rotary International President, Mr. Shekhar Mehta and some officials, at the State House, thanked the organization for various interventions in the health sector, particularly putting in $268 million in the fight against Polio.
“Nigeria has benefitted from your kind support, most particularly in the fight against Polio, with a total sum of $268 million provided by Rotary International. For this, I say thank you.
“In addition to support provided by Rotary International in Polio Eradication, I am also well apprised of your other health interventions focused at improving maternal, newborn and child health, infrastructural renewal of health facilities, data management to improve evidence-based decision making, and the area of improving quality of care for patients,’’ he said.
The President noted that the support Nigeria had received from multilateral and bilateral partners, including Rotary International for Sustainable Development Goals and Universal Health Coverage had been invaluable.
Rotary International equally presented an award to President Buhari.
“I also heartily welcome and receive the award you have given in recognition of the efforts of the administration, in collaboration with our partners, leading to the certification of Nigeria, and the entire continent as being polio-free,’’ he responded.
The President welcomed the Club’s offer of partnership with Nigeria in effective Coronavirus vaccine management and service delivery.
In his remarks, the Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire, commended Rotary International for supporting health care programmes and improving facilities in the country.
Earlier, Mehta said the historic achievement of eradicating Polio in Nigeria was made possible by the leadership of President Buhari, while highlighting the President’s foresight and diligence in taming spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Mr President, thank you profusely for ensuring that Nigeria became polio free. It has been possible only because of your leadership,’’ he said.
Mehta said the charity organization currently had 1.2 million members in 200 countries, emphasizing that the focus of the year 2021 is on empowering girls by ensuring better health, hygiene and nutrition.
The Rotary International President also said the Covid-19 threw up economic and educational challenges, assuring that the organization would continue to support Nigeria in education, including surrogate teaching, and environmental issues.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 6, 2021

PRESIDENT BUHARI SETS UP HEALTH SECTOR REFORM COMMITTEE, NAMES VICE PRESIDENT OSINBAJO AS CHAIRMAN
President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the setting up of a Health Sector Reform Committee to commence the development and implementation of a Health Sector Reform programme for Nigeria in collaboration with the State Governments and the FCT administration. This is sequel to a Health Sector Diagnostic Review Report developed by a consultant, Vesta Healthcare Partners and the Federal Ministry of Health.
The committee will undertake a review of all healthcare reforms adopted in the past two decades and lessons learnt and factor them into the development of the new Health Sector Reform Programme.
The committee which is set up for a period of six months under the Chairmanship of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has members drawn from private and public sector health care management professionals, development partners, representatives from the National Assembly as well as the Nigeria Governors Forum among others.
Other members are: His Excellency Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Governor of Delta State ; Dr. Osagie Ehanire, Honourable Minister of Health; Mr. Alex Okoh, Director General BPE; Prof Ibrahim Abubakar, a Professor of Infectious Disease Epidemiology at University College London and Director of the UCL Institute for Global Health; Mr Babatunde Irukera, Director General, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Council; Senator( Dr) Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe; Dr. Adedamola Dada; Dr. Sani Aliyu; Dr. Mairo Mandara; Dr. Haliru Yahaya, Emir of Shonga; Professor Uche Amazigbo ; Director Hospital Services, Federal Ministry of Health; Dr Faisal Shuaib; Prof Nasiru Sambo; Dr Ifedayo Morayo Adetifa; Dr Gambo Aliyu.
Others in the committee are: Dr Betta Edu (Chairman, Nigeria Health Commissioners Forum representing National Council on Health); President Nigeria Medical Association; President Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria; President National Association of Nigeria Nurses & Midwives; President Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria ; Mrs Temi Marcella Awogboro ; Dr. Muhammad Sadiq; Dr. Azubike Tagbo and World Health Organization, Nigeria.
Vesta Healthcare Partners and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation are to serve as resource persons and have observer roles in the committee.
Meanwhile, President Buhari has also approved the appointment of Dr Ifedayo Morayo Adetifa as the new Director General of Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). The President has named him as a member of this important committee.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 06, 2021

PRESIDENT BUHARI URGES INSURANCE COYS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF DIVERSIFICATION, EXPAND OPERATIONS TO MEET NEEDS
President Muhammadu Buhari Monday in Abuja urged Insurance firms in Nigeria to take advantage of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to grow non-oil sector of the economy through innovation, commending their role in encouraging medical practitioners to tackle spread of COVID-19.
Speaking virtually at the opening ceremony of the 47th African Insurance Organization (AIO) Conference and Annual General Assembly, the President said the Insurance sector will play a vital role in the diversification of the economy by bringing “necessary stability, economic sustainability, revenue generation, job creation and financial inclusiveness.’’
“There is a great future for the Insurance industry in Africa. We only need to put the right mechanism in place for it to thrive. I assure you that this administration has and will continue to support Insurance growth in Nigeria and Africa at large.
“I commend the leadership of the AIO for the resilience, foresight and perseverance in ensuring that the African Insurance market strives to meet its expectations in the global market notwithstanding the prevailing challenges,’’ he said.
President Buhari said the theme of the conference, “Rebuilding Africa’s Economy: An Insurance Perspective”, was apt and well thought out to respond to the reality of the moment as many governments try to devise ingenious ways to manage their economy in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The pandemic has indeed changed many perspectives that have forced leaders across the globe to think hard for remedies.
“I want to assure you that we in Nigeria are doing everything humanly possible to ensure coordinated approach to the pandemic and reaching out to other African leaders on possible best options to fully revive the African economy in which I strongly believe the Insurance industry has a vital role to play,’’ he added.
The President noted that the COVID-19 pandemic presented a global challenge which led to lockdown of many countries, travel restrictions, and issuance of many health protocols, affecting all human, social and economic interactions that made hosting of the Conference impossible in 2020.
“COVID-19 is still a serious challenge in many countries across the globe. However, adequate protocols have been put in place to curb its spread and vaccination is in progress.
“We understand as a government and nation the need to frontally tackle some of the disruptions to our social, economic and health occasioned by the pandemic by putting in place sufficient measures that allow the system to function.
“I once again use this opportunity to commend the Nigerian Insurance industry for identifying with the government through the provision of life insurance set of packages for frontline medical and paramedical personnel in the course of this fight. Your support and solidarity in these times are highly appreciated,’’ he added.
President Buhari thanked the Organizing Committee for successfully putting the conference together, adding that the subtopics listed for discussions were germane and critical in helping Nigeria and Africa rebuild.
“We are aware that the AIO’s Conference and Annual General Meeting is rotated amongst member states in order to provide a forum for exchange of information and strategies on market development while promoting regional knowledge and integration.
“We received the news of the decision of the Executive Committee of the AIO granting Nigeria the hosting rights of this 47th edition of the AIO Conference with pleasure. As a country, we are confident in our ability to deliver the best conference ever in year 2020 before the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic,’’ President Buhari affirmed.
In her remarks, the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mrs Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed, said the foresight of the founders of the AIO deserved commendation as it had fostered African integration agenda and how best to collectively address shortcomings.
The Minister urged the Insurance sector to design their products around the needs of society, especially for low income earners, noting that greater impact on development would only be possible by looking at the African peculiarity.
The President of AIO, Mrs Delphine Traore, who is also the Chief Operations Officer, Alliance Africa, said the conference was last held in Nigeria in year 2000, assuring that innovation in the sector would help in complementing government efforts in development.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 6, 2021

Press Statement
RIWAMA Boss, Bro Obuah Felicitates With Governor Wike Over Award
The Sole Administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency, RIWAMA, Bro Felix Obuah has commended the State governor, Chief Bar. Nyesom Wike for the honour of ‘Silver Leadership, Mentorship for Peace’ Award by the Methodist Church Nigeria.
Bro Obuah who described the Honour as well deserved, said it’s yet another testament to how much Governor Wike has warmed himself into the various segments of the Rivers community through hard work, selfless service and meaningful people-oriented developmental projects.
The RIWAMA boss observed the uniqueness of the Award on account of where it is coming from, the Church, which has both human and divine endorsement.
He said the Church’s reason for the honour, “outstanding commitment and dedication to the service of God, humanity and the society in general,” is insightful and worthy of note.
While also commending the leadership and members of the Methodist Church Nigeria for their vision and gesture of goodwill, Bro Obuah likened the honour to a seed planted on a good soil and is expected to yield bountiful fruits for the wider and deeper propagation of the Christian faith.
The RIWAMA boss noted that the only way the good efforts of Governor Wike will be sustained is for all to join hands in praying for him and keying into the new Rivers Vision of His Excellency which he said has launched the State on the path of steady and irreversible progress.

Jerry Needam
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to
Bro. Felix Obuah, Sole Administrator,
Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA).

Monday, September 6, 2021.