President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Abuja urged Nigerians to get more interested in working with security agencies to tackle myriad challenges facing the country, extoling the courage and bravery displayed by security agencies and service chiefs in promoting peace and order.
In an address at the opening ceremony of Alumni Association of the National Defence College (AANDEC), the President said more could be achieved in bringing law and order to various parts of the country with full cooperation of citizens.
“Security is not just a military concern but a challenge for all Nigerians. No matter the amount of money invested in military operations, without the support of the people, display of patriotism and preparedness for everyone to be ready to take ownership of securing our environment, success will be limited.
“Consequently, we must look beyond the military and the security agencies for enduring solutions to the security challenges we are facing,’’ he said.
President Buhari said the administration had put in place measures to adequately support the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies in terms of modern equipment, boosting the manpower of all security agencies and financing their operations in Nigeria and other international assignments.
“We have equally, recently, put in place a National Development Plan (2021 – 2025) covering medium- and long-term plans, with a vision to make Nigeria a country that has unlocked its potentials in all sectors of the economy for sustainable, holistic, and inclusive national development.
“We will in this regard be building a thriving and sustainable economy while improving access to quality education, enhance social inclusion as well as expand infrastructure among several others. All of these desirables can only be achieved in a peaceful and secure environment,’’ he added.
The President said security outfits in the country deserved commendation for the efforts in tackling issues of banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.
“I am proud of the achievements of the security agencies in dealing with issues of terrorism, insurgency, banditry and the so-called unknown gunmen in the North West and other parts of the country.
“These issues and challenges are being professionally handled by the Armed Forces and other security agencies with improved intelligence operations and effective collaboration in the Armed Forces and other agencies.
“For this, I commend the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, Inspector General of Police and all other agencies that have been toiling day and night to ensure the safety of lives and property,’’ he added.
President Buhari assured Nigerians that the issue of kidnapping that had bedeviled the country in the recent past was being tackled with all seriousness.
“We have zero tolerance for kidnapping, especially of school children and we shall deal with such outrages decisively. The disruption of our educational system and economic activities will not be tolerated.
“I have directed that all cases relating to security breaches, economic sabotage and wanton destruction of lives and property across the entire nation be immediately addressed.
“Let me add here that the Armed Forces have been deployed in virtually all states of the Federation to combat any security challenges,’’ he said.
The President noted that the National Security Strategy 2019 was very clear on all of issues related to safety, with the need for individuals, private sector, civil society groups, media, politicians, traditional institutions and government functionaries to key into the endeavor.
According to him, “This is the time to enhance Corporate Social Responsibility and giving back to the society.’’
The President said policies and strategies at all levels of governance must be properly coordinated and implemented to ensure Nigerians all over the country and in Diaspora had a sense of belonging, with focus on family, socio-cultural, ethical values and proper upbringing of children.
“We must also develop our future leaders to effectively take over from us. Above all, we must harness the strength in our diversity to ensure a cohesive and forward-looking nation.
“The Alumni Association of the National Defence College (AANDEC) has brought forth all of these at this National Security Seminar. I therefore commend the President of the Alumni Association and his team for their acts of patriotism, support for nation building and bringing their experience acquired in Service over the years to bear on enhancing national security, peace and development.’’
President Buhari urged the AANDEC to keep up the efforts.
“We will continue to support the Association and I also call on all the security agencies to tap into the rich experience of AANDEC membership to enhance our security and nation building.
“I look forward to a comprehensive report with actionable recommendations just as in previous occasions, to support the efforts of Government. With the caliber of resource persons here, I have no doubt that the Seminar will be successful,’’ he said.
In his remark, the Minister of Defence, Maj. Gen. Bashir Salihi Magashi (rtd), said Nigerians had put up resilience in the face of challenges, adding that security outfits should also be aware of the rights of citizens.
The Minister noted that the government would keep supporting the military in ensuring promotion of peace and order.
The President of AANDEC, Air Commodore Darlington Abdullahi said there was a need to change the narrative of the country, adding that Nigerians had made indelible marks in their various fields of endeavor, and greatly impacted on the global economy.
Abdullahi said the efforts at re-orientation must be deliberate, starting from schools and other public institutions, and it must be sustained, with focus on values that bring honour like respect for national symbols, diligence, honesty and integrity.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 1, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI ATTENDS SPECIAL SESSION ON UNEP@50 IN KENYA
Sequel to an invitation extended to him by his Kenyan counterpart, Uhuru Kenyatta, President Muhammadu Buhari will depart Abuja Tuesday, 1st March to participate in the Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP@50), scheduled for 3rd – 4th March, 2022 in Nairobi, Kenya.
The theme of the Special Session is “Strengthening UNEP For The Implementation Of The Environmental Dimension Of The 2030 Agenda For Sustainable Development.”
According to the organisers of the event, “for 50 years, UNEP has coordinated a worldwide effort with Member States to address the world’s biggest environmental challenges. Member States are vital partners in formulating UNEP’s policy, implementing UNEP’s programme and championing solutions to our shared environmental challenges.
“UNEP@50 is a time to reflect on the past and envision the future. It provides an opportunity to reinvigorate international cooperation and spur collective action to address the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste. No country or continent can solve these global crises alone. But each nation has a crucial role to play in protecting our people and planet.”
President Buhari is expected to deliver the National Statement of the country and participate in High Level Dialogue Sessions on the Environment at the event.
He will be accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, Minister of State for the Environment, Sharon Ikeazor, National Security Adviser, Maj.Gen Babagana Monguno (rtd), Director General, National Intelligence Agency, Amb. Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, and the Chief Executive Officer of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
From Kenya, President Buhari will proceed to London for routine medical checks that will last for a maximum of two weeks.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 1, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI REJOICES WITH PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE ON 80TH BIRTHDAY
President Muhammadu Buhari joins members of Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), the Christian community, particularly clergymen in Nigeria and abroad, in celebrating with Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye on the auspicious occasion of his 80th birthday, March 2, 2022.
President Buhari felicitates with the wife, Pastor Foluke Adenike Adeboye, family members, friends and relations as the General Overseer turns an octogenarian, with clear evidences of walking the path of a righteous man by dedicating his life to the service of God, and humanity.
The President recalls his private and public meetings with the renowned preacher and teacher of the Bible over many years, most remarkably the visit when he was recuperating in London, 2017, appreciating Pastor Adeboye’s warmth and friendliness, which he also extends to leaders and others from all walks of life.
On the cleric’s 80th birthday, President Buhari believes his contributions to the betterment of Nigeria and other countries stand out clearly as testimonies of his divine calling, impacting greatly on education, health and infrastructural development, which include many urban and rural roads.
The President salutes the focus of the RCCG leader on works of the Kingdom and peace for the nation, praying that his path will be like a shining light, with grace for good health and strength.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
March 1, 2022

PRESS RELEASE
SANWO-OLU: WE’LL DELIBERATELY PUSH MORE DEVELOPMENT TO BADAGRY

•Says Construction Of Badagry Deep Seaport Will Be Activated In June

•We Are Ready For Development, Traditional Rulers, Host Communities Tell Governor

Following the outcry of the host communities over alleged neglect and delay of the Badagry Deep Seaport project, an idea that was birthed 10 years ago, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday said the construction of the deep sea port would start in June once the State is granted ratification by the Federal Government grants ratification in April.

Governor Sanwo-Olu gave the assurance during a stakeholders meeting and community engagement on Badagry Deep Seaport Project held at the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) Auditorium in Topo, Badagry.

The Governor, who assured the people of Badagry that his administration is determined to push development to Badagry axis of Lagos State, reiterated the government’s readiness to compensate residents for economic losses on buildings, ancestral lands, farms and sites as a result of the deep seaport.

He said: “We need to go to Abuja to get a re-ratification because it is NPA that owns the license for port. So, we need to get ratification from Abuja. That process has started and we are praying that before the end of April, we will get that ratification.

“Once we get that ratification, by the grace of God we will plan to see if we can start something by June. Once we get that ratification, two months, we must activate something. We want to start the project as soon as possible. We want to deliberately push development to this axis.

“The Badagry Deep Sea Port Project is not just one project; it is a multi-level opportunity for progress for all the people of this State in view of the volume of trade and quantum of investment opportunities that would spring up in the area when the project commences, and when it is completed and operational. Very importantly, employment and capacity building for the teeming youth and women in the affected communities will be prioritised.

“About 10 years ago during the administration of one of my predecessors, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, this Sea Port Project, which is the reason we have organised today’s community engagement, was conceived as a flagship project that when fully operational, would not only boost the fortunes of the people of Badagry, but, also transform the entire economy of our State and that of the entire West African sub-region.

“As you are all aware, when completed, this deep sea port will be the second in the State after the one in Lekki, which is projected to be commissioned this year. It is expected that with these two deep sea ports, we will experience significant relief from the difficult challenges being experienced in the Apapa axis as a result of the activities at Tin Can port which has been overstretched beyond its installed capacity.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu also congratulated the Management of Badagry Port Development Limited and the host communities for being collaborators and joint beneficiaries of the laudable project which would positively impact lives and businesses, create wealth and improve standards of living in the Badagry division of Lagos State.

Speaking earlier, Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperative, Mrs. Lola Akande, said the State Government hopes to chart a way forward in ensuring smooth and cordial relationship between investors, Badagry Deep Sea Port Limited and members of the host communities.

“We are hopeful that at the end of the day, under Mr. Governor’s direction, we would be able to chart a way forward in ensuring smooth and cordial relationship between our investor, Badagry Deep Sea Port Limited and members of the host Communities, with a view to safeguarding easy access of the investor to the Project Land Area, whilst assuring our host communities, who are the ancestral land-owners of adequate protection of their various concerns and interests by the State Government,” she said.

The Managing Director of the Badagry Sea Port Limited, Mr. Didi Ndiomu in his remarks said the Badagry Deep Seaport project will be developed in four phases under a public private partnership arrangement that includes the supporting roles of both Lagos State Government and the Federal Government of Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of Transportation, the Nigerian Ports Authority, as well as other relevant Government Agencies.

He also noted that the affected communities would be compensated.

“The deep seaport is to be located in Gberefu area of Badagry, Lagos State and it covers an area of approximately 1,103 hectares out of which 623 is dedicated for port activities including an 18-meter draft and 4 Km quay, making it a port with the deepest draft and widest berths in Sub Sahara Africa, capable of berthing the largest vessels known in existence today such as the 400-meter-long Maersk Triple E class with a carrying capacity of 18, 000 TEUs as against the present 4,500 TEU West Africa Maximum (WAFMAX) vessel. An additional 480 hectares of land has also been earmarked for industrial and logistics park zone.

“The scope of the new port includes terminals for containerized and non-containerized cargo, dredged access channel, tuning circle, port basin, anchorage area, shore line protections, an offshore supply base, refined product import jetties, industrial and logistics zone and supporting transport infrastructure,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the host communities, the Alapa of Apa kingdom, Oba Oyekan Adekanbi Ajose, expressed their satisfaction about the plan of the Lagos State Government to attract more development to Badagry through the sea port project.

He said 10 out of the 12 host communities to the Badagry Deep Seaport are in full support of the project in their communities because they believe it will attract more development to the Badagry axis and therefore urged other communities to support the project.

Also speaking, a traditional leader and chairman of the host communities, Chief Frederick Ajanisan said: “We are happy with the project and we are also grateful to Governor Sanwo-Olu for showing interest in the project. Coming to Badagry for a stakeholders meeting today showed clearly that Governor Sanwo-Olu is interested in the project.”

SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
01 MARCH 2022

•
• Top government functionaries, high-ranking diplomats, others storm Kogi State for Uduaghan, Akpoti

The relationship between the Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan and the esteemed lawyer and powerful Kogi State politician, Natasha Akpoti, will be pushed to a formal level on Saturday, March 5, 2022.

The historic ceremony is expected to be the biggest gathering of international faces in Kogi State.

Royalty, top government functionaries in Africa, high-ranking diplomats and directors of powerful multinational companies have already confirmed their attendance to the marriage ceremony.

The tradition marriage of the quiet-spoken, backroom power broker, strategist and man of great personal integrity, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan and the Kogi State flamboyant politician and tower of strength to the good people of Ebiraland, Natasha Akpoti will take place in Okene.

Top government functionaries, high-ranking diplomats, others storm Kogi State for Uduaghan, Akpoti

The relationship between the Alema of Warri Kingdom, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan and the esteemed lawyer and powerful Kogi State politician, Natasha Akpoti, will be pushed to a formal level on Saturday, March 5, 2022.

The historic ceremony is expected to be the biggest gathering of international faces in Kogi State.

Royalty, top government functionaries in Africa, high-ranking diplomats and directors of powerful multinational companies have already confirmed their attendance to the marriage ceremony.

The tradition marriage of the quiet-spoken, backroom power broker, strategist and man of great personal integrity, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan and the Kogi State flamboyant politician and tower of strength to the good people of Ebiraland, Natasha Akpoti will take place in Okene.