President Muhammadu Buhari joins the media in celebrating with Alhaji Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operations of The Nation Newspaper, on his 60th birthday, extoling the journalist for his dedication to duty, devotion to nation building and determination to promote democratic values.
The President notes contributions of the journalist to political developments in the country, as a reporter and editor, regularly updating the public on germane issues with his hallmark of fairness, balance and clarity, which endear many readers to his reports.
The President joins the Nigerian Union of Journalists, and Nigerian Guild of Editors in rejoicing with the prolific reporter and editor, whose interest in humanity recently saw to his investiture as 11th President of Rotary Club of Abuja in Maitama.
President Buhari prays that the Almighty God will guide the celebrant in his service to the nation, and bless his family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 9, 2022

Killings: Indigenous People of Biafra move against Ifeanyi Okowa
The Indigenous People of Biafra has threatened the vice-presidential ambition of the Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, over alleged killings in the state.
This was as the group reiterated that it was not a terrorist organization, adding that the recent United Nations’ pronouncement that it was a peaceful movement buttressed the need to treat its members as non-criminals.
IPOB’s Director of Media and Publicity, Emma Powerful, said this in a statement on Wednesday.
“The attention of the global movement and noble family of the Indigenous People of Biafra under the command and leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Okwuchukwu Kanu, wish to draw the attention of Ifeanyi Okowa, the Delta State governor, over the killing of innocent citizens in Delta State by Nigeria compromised security agents in the State claiming that they have killed IPOB and ESN’.
“However, IPOB members are peaceful and not terrorists to be hunted and killed.
“We boldly want everyone, including Nigeria terrorist sponsoring government, to understand that being an IPOB member is not a crime. Recently, United Nations Working Group, in their public opinion defined IPOB’s struggle as a peaceful movement seeking lawful Self Determination from Nigeria.
“If Ifeanyi Okowa continues to play ostrich while this barbarity and shielding of innocent people’s blood continue, IPOB will ensure that his Vice Presidential ambition becomes a mirage.

It added, “IPOB is peaceful in all its operations. ESN under IPOB-DOS is only after Fulani terrorists masquerading as herdsmen in our bushes and forests who are raping our mothers, wives, and sisters.
“Delta State is now safe heaven for these Fulani terrorists who are doing all manner of atrocities unchallenged. IPOB are watching with keen interest, and we are ready to confront Fulani terrorists in Delta State because Delta State is part of the Biafran territory.
“Also, there was no ESN operative or IPOB member killed in Delta State. Rather, innocent Biafran youths are being massacred at the watch of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. We challenge Nigeria police to publish the names of police officers killed by IPOB and ESN in Delta state.”

WE’II CONTINUE TO MAINTAIN PEACE IN ONDO-GOV AKEREDOLU
•Commends Security Agencies Over Arrest Of Owo Church Attackers
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has assured that his administration will continue to maintain peace in the State,stressing that it is the responsibility of government.
The Governor commended the security agencies over the arrest of terrorists involved in the June 5, 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo.
Governor Akeredolu spoke in his office on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to his office by officers of the Federal Fire Service, led by the South West Zone L, Commander and Assistant Comptroller of Fire Service, James Olatunji.
The Zone comprises Ondo, Osun and Ekiti States.
While thanking the Almighty God for the arrest of the perpetrators, the Governor noted that the blood of the innocent worshipers spilled in a sacred place of worship and the fervent prayers of the people also contributed to their arrest.
Arakunrin Akeredolu, who reiterated his administration commitment to protecting the people and their property, reemphasised that the recent shooting in Owo had nothing to do with the June 5 attack.
He said:”We knew about this about a week ago. Arrest has been made over a week ago. I know there was ongoing investigation and because of that, there was no need for us to make it public so that the security agencies, especially DSS, who were majorly involved are not compromised.
“The arrest were made about last week, we were briefed, but we had a pact with them not to go public and as at this morning two other people were arrested.
“We know that now that it has been made public, the security work may be difficult. We must thank Almighty God that this arrest has been made. Where they attacked was a sacred place and the prayers of the people have been answered.
“The blood of the innocent people they killed are crying. What happened in Owo thereafter, the recent shooting, was not to maim or kill. By the grace of God, we will continue to find a way to maintain peace in this state. That is what we owe our people.”
The Governor while stressing the importance of the fire service, said if not for their timely interventions at different occasions, properties worth several billions of naira would have been lost to various fire incidents in different parts of the state
Earlier, the Zonal Commander, James Olatunji, appreciated Governor Akeredolu for the harmonious relationship among the State government, the Federal and State Fire Services as well as all the security agencies in the state, adding that Governor Akeredolu has consistently supported the Federal Fire Service in the state with logistics and other important needs to boost their activities.
He also applauded the Governor for making the state safe and habitable for the citizenry by improving on the security architecture across the state, just as he expressed the readiness of his team to key into the security architecture of the state to further secure the lives and property of the poeple.
Olatunji revealed that between January 1 and August 9, 2022, the Service saved five lives while one life was lost during fire incidents. He added that property worth N3.139bn were saved just as the state lost property worth N164.2m.
According to him, the properties included houses, shops, market, event centres, fuel tankers, trucks and others.
He said a total of 46 cases were recorded during the period under review.
He added that just last Friday afternoon, he personally led a crew of fire service to Sijuwade area where properties worth N50m were saved.
He also gave the Toll Free emergency number as 112 and Ondo State Federal Fire Service emergency number 08133006400, in case of fire outbreak.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
August 10, 2022.

OWO TERROR ATTACK: GOV AKEREDOLU CONFIRMS ARREST OF ATTACKERS
•Warns Ebiras In Ondo Against Venturing Into Kidnapping
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has confirmed the arrest of the attackers of St Francis Catholic Church, Owo.
The Governor confirmed the arrest shortly after the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor made the announcement in Abuja.
Governor Akeredolu further disclosed that the owner of the house where the attackers stayed before the June 5 attack in Owo has also been arrested
He noted that government did not spare a moment in trailing the terrorists since the horrendous attacks on innocent worshipers at the St Francis Catholic Church, Owaluwa, Owo.
Arakunrin Akeredolu spoke during a courtesy visit to his office by the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) led by the Chairman of the Council, Prince Leke Adegbite.
He said:”Now that the military has announced it, I can tell you that five of them have been arrested now. They are still on the trail of the rest. The home where they lodged in Owo and the person that accommodated them before the attack, has also been arrested.
“We did not spare a moment. I am happy that the Chief of Defence Staff has announced it. We have known for a while but we needed not to come out with it because more works are still ongoing. I can confirm that this arrest has been made. And they are still on the trail of some of them.”
Governor Akeredolu has also called on leaders of the Ebira community in the state to warn their young ones not to copy the bad venture of kidnapping.
The Governor said recent reports from victims of kidnap in the state have established that some Ebira indigenes are now involved in the unwholesome act.
He noted that the Ebiras have lived together with the people of the state peacefully for several decades, adding that they have always been supportive and hardworking.
“I want to use this medium to urge our brothers to concentrate on their farming trade. It will be unfortunate to know that the Ebiras in our midst are now involved in kidnapping.
“We are appealing to them not to copy bad thing. The traders selling by the road side should not become informants. We are not fighting them.
“We have seen their numbers, they supported and voted for us during elections. I will call their leaders and talk to them. Our brothers who were kidnapped on their way to Ikare, talk to them. They were taken to Ebira farmsteads.
“For me, we have lived together for too long for this to happen. I am ready to make any effort to ensure that the conviviality that we have enjoyed continues. But we are begging their leaders to urge them not to copy bad thing. They are in our midst , we are surrounded by them. The issue of security is key and it’s dynamic.” Governor Akeredolu noted.
The Governor, who thanked the NUJ in the state for the cooperation extended to his administration, assured them of sustained efforts at developing the state.
On the issue of Security, Governor Akeredolu disclosed that aside the recent recruitment and training of new Amotekun personnel, 20 hunters and local vigilantes will be trained by the Amotekun corps in each of the eighteen local government areas in the state.
Earlier, the Chairman of the NUJ, Ondo State Council thanked the Governor for his support for the management of OSRC and Owena Press PLC, adding that the upgrade of facilities in the two state-owned media outfits is commendable.
He equally appreciated the Governor for the approval of the Weigh-in allowance for journalists and information officers working in the State and Local government service.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
August 9, 2022.

PRESIDENT BUHARI CELEBRATES HIS EMINENCE SHEIKH ABDUL HAFEEZ ABOU (BABA ADINI OF LAGOS) ON CENTENARY BIRTHDAY
President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with revered Islamic scholar and respected Muslim leader, His Eminence Sheikh Abdul Hafeez Abou, Baba Adini of Lagos, on his centenary celebration, rejoicing with family members, friends and associates for the mercies of God upon his servant.
President Buhari acknowledges the role of the religious leader in promoting peace, unity and progress among the Muslim community, and their neighbours, in Lagos and across the country, propagating the truth of the Holy Quran, and relating it to practical life issues, especially on leadership and national development.
The President affirms that the wise counsels of the scholar provides guidance to political leaders and inspires the youth on the right path to fruitful living and yielding to the will of the Almighty God, by keeping to instructions.
As the Baba Adini, who is the Executive Chairman of Lagos Central Mosque turns 100, President Buhari believes the grace for long life and strength could only come from God as reward for piety, humility and living for the good others and society.
The President joins the Muslim umma in praying for good health and more strength for the religious leader.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 09, 2022

WE ARE NIGERIANS, GOD WILLING WE REMAIN NIGERIANS, AND NIGERIA WILL REMAIN ONE, SAYS PRESIDENT BUHARI
President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Abuja urged political leaders to stay focused and uphold the ultimate objective of promoting interest of the country, saying, “We are Nigerians, God willing we remain Nigerians, and Nigeria shall remain one.’’
President Buhari, who received former State Chairmen of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) at the State House, noted that the passion and zeal for improving the livelihood of Nigerians, which culminated in creation of the political party had not dwindled, calling for more steadfastness as Nigerians.
The President said the self-centeredness that led to the loss of about a million lives between 1967-1970 must not be allowed to repeat itself, noting that the CPC was founded on the bedrock of patriotism and loyalty to the unity of Nigeria.
“Our main objective is the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We are human beings. We have our weaknesses, but I can assure you that the patriotism in us is hard earned. We have gone through all the troubles from 15th of January 1966 to date. You know what I mean by this, we have killed a million of ourselves in order to keep this country together.
“I don’t think there can be any practical experience more than that. We are Nigerians, God willing we remain Nigerians and Nigeria will remain one,’’ he said.
President Buhari urged all members of defunct CPC and political leaders to always be mindful of the larger picture by working towards preserving the unity, peace and integrity of the nation.
The President thanked former chairmen of the political party, which was merged to form the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), for always highlighting the achievements of the government, admitting that some areas will surely get more attention.
“I am delighted to welcome the forum of State Chairmen of the former Congress for Progressives’ Change to State House today. I accord great significance to this visit as it demonstrates a determination and commitment to identify with our administration.
“This visit recalls the solidarity with the successes that we have recorded in critical areas of our society. The visit also affords us the opportunity to discuss other issues of interest to the forum.
“I commend members of this forum and all members of the legacy party-CPC, for their continued dedication to the ideals of democratic governance that we all believed in.
“The doggedness with which we pursued our vision and goals that culminated into the success we recorded remain like bright stars in the history of our dear nation,’’ he added.
President Buhari said he was particularly grateful for the “unalterable belief the members of CPC and, by extension the Nigerian electorate, had and still have in me as demonstrated in their unalloyed support for our electoral struggles which reflected in the results that we consistently recorded at the polls over the years.’’
He said it was the solid credentials that the CPC possessed that gave the party a prime place in the merger that led to the formation of the All Progressives Congress.
Other political parties in the merger include the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) along with some members from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and People’s Democratic Party.
The President said efforts had been made in appointing some members of CPC in his government, including those in the Federal Executive Council (FEC) like the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Minister of Education, Minister of Water Resources, and Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.
“I listened to the remarks of your Chairman which highlighted our modest achievements in diverse areas. We shall remain resolute to continue to deliver on the promises we made to Nigerians, and to ensure that we attain greater milestones in terms of economic growth, infrastructural development, provision of security, and the war against corruption, among other responsibilities of government,’’ he added.
Describing the President as the “Patriarch of the CPC’’, the Chairman of Forum of State Chairmen of the defunct CPC and former Chairman of the party in Niger State, Umar Shuaibu, said the party had maintained all its structures across the country, assuring President Buhari of their loyalty, especially in the forthcoming elections.
Shuaibu commended the President for providing strong leadership over the years, particularly in remaining balanced, fair and above board in electoral issues.
“Before you, the opposition was arrested and maltreated, but it is no longer so,’’ he said, “You did not deny them what they denied you when they were in power.’’
Shuaibu thanked the President for appointing members of the defunct CPC into the Federal Executive Council, as head of agencies and members of Boards.
He said the CPC had always garnered millions of votes in elections across the country, and would support the APC Presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 9, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI HOSTS NEW NMA EXCO, SAYS FG DISBURSES N100B TO INDIGENOUS PHARMA MANUFACTURERS
The Federal Government has disbursed a total of N100 billion to indigenous pharmaceutical manufacturers and healthcare investors as loans to expand their capital base and boost local production of medicines and medical consumables.
President Muhammadu Buhari announced this Tuesday in Abuja while receiving the new Executive Members of Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).
The President explained that the loan was extended through the Central Bank of Nigeria’s support to the private pharmaceutical sector.
He added that the Health Sector Reform Committee chaired by Vice-President Professor Yemi Osinbajo, is currently exploring models for revitalizing the nation’s healthcare system, in ways that improve quality of care and the benefit package to care providers.
On brain drain in the health sector, the President said he has directed the Honourable Minister of Health to look into ways of turning “brain drain” to “brain gain” by engaging top Nigerian medical experts in the diaspora in knowledge and skills repatriation.
He urged the Association and other stakeholders in the health sector to support initiatives by the Federal Government and work with the Committees set up to chart a fast track to a health system that best meets the needs of Nigerians in the 21st Century.
The President also commended the Association, which is the umbrella body of all Medical Practitioners in Nigeria, for consistently choosing peaceful resolution of differences on matters pertinent to the National health system.
‘‘I commend our medical professionals for their contribution to Nigeria’s exemplary management of the COVID-19 pandemic, the control of malaria, HIV and Tuberculosis, and other feats also achieved by Nigerian doctors in the diaspora.
‘‘Our response to COVID-19 pandemic has been praised internationally and your members are key parts of this success.
‘‘I recall that in the last quarter of 2021, the immediate past NMA Executives visited me and presented recommendations for the health sector, which included, the review and amendment of NHIS Act; upgrading and equipping existing health institutions; loans to fund hospital equipment; the repeal and re-enactment of the Medical and Dental Practitioners’ Act; and Appeal for more funding for the four (4) newly established Universities of Medical Sciences.
‘‘I am pleased to inform you that most of these recommendations have been addressed, whilst further action is being taken to study those involving cross-cutting administrative processes with legal implications.’’
The President also used the occasion to congratulate a former President of the body, Dr. Osahon Enabulele, the President-elect of the World Medical Association, the first Nigerian to hold the position.
While wishing him a successful tenure, the President expressed hope that Enabulele would use his position to support improvement in health care delivery in Nigeria and lower income countries.
He also wished the new Executive Members of NMA a successful tenure, urging them to earnestly continue to serve as arbiters of peace and progress.
The Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire, who led the medical practitioners to the audience, affirmed that the doctors have been good partners with his ministry, helping to regulate the health profession as well as stressing quality service delivery.
In his remarks, the President of the NMA, Dr Uche Rowland Ojinmah, said the new National Officers Committee (NOC) was elected on the 21st of May, 2022. He commended President Buhari for his steadfast war against corruption; assent to the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act which will “improve the health indices of our nation;” the constitution of the Health Reform Committee under Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; and the various infrastructural projects embarked upon by the Buhari administration.
Dr Ojinmah enjoined the President to ensure full and appropriate implementation of the NHIA Act; provision of “adequate work equipment, conducive work environment and necessary budget support;” as well as elongation of the retirement age for medical consultants to 70 years and 65 years for non-consultant doctors and other healthcare workers.
Others include: implementation of the Hazard Allowance circularized in December 2021 with the arrears; as well as the setting up of a Health Bank.
He also requested for a representation of the Federal Government at the inauguration of Dr. Enabulele in Berlin, Germany, later in the year.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 9, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS ACE JOURNALIST, YUSUF ALLI AT 60
President Muhammadu Buhari joins the media in celebrating with Alhaji Yusuf Alli, Managing Editor, Northern Operations of The Nation Newspaper, on his 60th birthday, extoling the journalist for his dedication to duty, devotion to nation building and determination to promote democratic values.
The President notes contributions of the journalist to political developments in the country, as a reporter and editor, regularly updating the public on germane issues with his hallmark of fairness, balance and clarity, which endear many readers to his reports.
The President joins the Nigerian Union of Journalists, and Nigerian Guild of Editors in rejoicing with the prolific reporter and editor, whose interest in humanity recently saw to his investiture as 11th President of Rotary Club of Abuja in Maitama.
President Buhari prays that the Almighty God will guide the celebrant in his service to the nation, and bless his family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)

BUILD ON THE SUCCESS OF COMMONWEALTH GAMES, PRESIDENT BUHARI URGES SPORTS MINISTRY, STAKEHOLDERS
President Muhammadu Buhari congratulates the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, led by Chief Sunday Dare, Sports Federations and Associations in the country on the successful conclusion and performance of Team Nigeria at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, United Kingdom.
Team Nigeria posted an impressive outing at the competition, finishing seventh on the medals table with 12 gold, 9 silver and 14 bronze.
The President expresses delight at several reports of peaceful atmosphere, unity and camaraderie in the camp throughout the Games, which reflected positively in the psyche of the athletes, contributing to the harvest of medals for Team Nigeria.
President Buhari urges the officials to work with all relevant stakeholders to build on the success of the 2022 Commonwealth Games, begin early and earnest preparations to surpass this spectacular achievement in upcoming competitions.
President Buhari looks forward to a rousing reception from Nigerians for members of Team Nigeria Birmingham 2022, even as he assures all stakeholders that youth and sports development will remain a priority for this administration.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 8, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI NOMINATES EXECUTIVE COMMISSIONER FOR BOARD OF UPSTREAM REGULATORY COMMISSION
President Muhammadu Buhari has forwarded the name of Muhammad Sabo Lamido to the Senate as Executive Commissioner, Finance and Accounts, for the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission.
In a letter addressed to President of the Senate, Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan, the President said Lamido was being nominated due to the death of Hassan Gambo, who occupied the position until his demise.
President Buhari urged the Senate to confirm the nominee “in the usual expeditious manner.”
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
August 8, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS MINISTER OF LABOUR, SEN. CHRIS NGIGE AT 70
President Muhammadu Buhari warmly felicitates with Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Nwabueze Ngige, on his 70th birthday, rejoicing with the political leader on many strides and achievements, which include impact on governance at both state and national levels.
President Buhari notes the passion, zeal and diligence that the minister brings into every responsibility, starting out as a civil servant, with distinguished record of work at National Assembly and State House Clinics, before venturing into politics in 1999, where he has served as party chieftain, governor and senator.
The President affirms that Ngige’s penchant for excellence drives his interest to always motivate and breed leaders, leaving a legacy of hardwork in Anambra State as a governor, with landmark achievements in infrastructural development, inclusive governance that greatly inspired grassroots participation, and accountability that was dubbed, “Anambra people’s money working for the people’’.
As Minister of Labour, President Buhari acknowledges the foresight, sacrifice and insight of Dr Ngige in labour laws, creating employment opportunities, stimulating a healthy working relationship between employers and employed, leading negotiations between unions and government, and putting the interest of workers first, especially for their wages, salaries and allowances.
The President prays for the wellbeing of the minister and his family.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 8, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES MINISTER OF COMMUNICATIONS, ISA ALI PANTAMI ON CIISEC FELLOWSHIP
President Muhammadu Buhari warmly felicitates with Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, on conferment with a Fellowship status by Chartered Institute of Information Security (CIISec).
President Buhari congratulates the minister on the historic recognition, being first and only African Fellow admitted into CIISec amongst 89 other Fellows.
The President notes the passion, diligence and creativity that Prof. Pantami has brought into governance since assumption of office, enabling a convergence and synergy that takes security into full consideration, especially in the global cyber space.
President Buhari also appreciates CIISec for the recognition to Prof. Pantami and the effort at providing a community of professionals that work towards protecting the interest and safety of global citizens on the internet.
CIISec is the only genuine information and cybersecurity institution granted the Royal Charter of Incorporation status in the United Kingdom since 2018, and saddled with the responsibility to raise the standard of professionalism in information and cybersecurity.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
August 8, 2022

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONSENTS TO ACQUISITION OF EXXON MOBIL SHARES BY SEPLAT ENERGY OFFSHORE LTD
In his capacity as Minister of Petroleum Resources, and in consonance with the country’s drive for Foreign Direct Investment in the energy sector, President Muhammadu Buhari has consented to the acquisition of Exxon Mobil shares in the United States of America by Seplat Energy Offshore Limited.
Exxon Mobil had entered into a landmark Sale and Purchase Agreement with Seplat Energy to acquire the entire share capital of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited from Exxon Mobil Corporation, Mobil Development Nigeria Inc, and Mobil Exploration Nigeria Inc, both registered in Delaware, USA.
Considering the extensive benefits of the transaction to the Nigerian Energy sector and the larger economy, President Buhari has given Ministerial Consent to the deal.
The President, in commitment to investment drive in light of the Petroleum Industry Act, granted consent to the Share Sales Agreement, as requested by the parties to the transaction, and directed that the approval be conveyed to all the parties involved.
Exxon Mobil/Seplat are expected to carry out operatorship of all the oil mining licenses in the related shallow water assets towards production optimization to support Nigeria’s OPEC quota in the short term as well as ensure accelerated development and monetization of the gas resources in the assets for the Nigerian economy.
President Buhari also directed that all environmental and abandonment liabilities be adequately mitigated by Exxon Mobil and Seplat.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media and Publicity)
August 8, 2022

August 9, 2022

Lagos, Nigeria 08 August 2022

“Hip-Hop has only one school – the true school!” Experts say on fresh edition of MTV Base Musicology

Is Hip-Hop dead in Africa? Has it dwindled against the blinding spotlights of the afrobeat and afro-fusion genres? On the latest episode of the MTV Base’s quarterly music series, experts gathered to examine Hip-Hop within the bounds of Africa, and how the new crop of rappers have fared in an industry that has recently demanded more commercially alluring sounds.

This episode’s lineup of elite Nigerian music experts included Nigerian Hip-Hop legend, Entrepreneur, and African Peace Ambassador, Elajoe; rapper and former BBNaija housemate, Coco Ice; prolific rapper and music video director Chyn and; Music Executive / CEO, Speedplug Promotions, Lucas ‘KingLu’ Emeodi aka Lucas Jay. Also featured on this episode were Head, Artists, and Repertoire (AnR) at Chocolate City, 10Ten, and finally, MTV Base’s (West Africa) Digital Media Manager, Adekoya Adetola.

Kicking off the discussion with the evolution of hip-hop from the old school to the new school, Paramount’s Culture Squad member and show host, Ilo, quizzed contributors on the ‘old school–new school’ evolution of the genre.

The panel started by correcting the notion of “old school v new school” and stated that there was only one school — “The True School”. “The industry of today doesn’t even highlight the “true school” Hip-Hop artists,” Elajoe began. “This, coupled with the lack of media promotions and publicity, means ‘true school’ artistes are not appreciated enough.” Objecting to this opinion, Coco Ice affirmed the Nigerian music scene has watered down the rudimentary elements of Hip-Hop, citing an infusion of African flavours into rudimentary Hip-Hop as a primary contributor. She further highlighted the fact that since there is no hard and fast rule in expressing the art of Hip-Hop, most rappers are forced to veer away from the traditional style to make the genre more appealing and relatable to the mass market.

Lucas Jay corroborated Coco Ice’s point, noting that Hip-Hop had been thriving in Africa, but the industry has blindfolded itself to the modern music form. He noted that the new school artists thoroughly understood the pattern of the music industry and successfully created an intersection between hip-hop and pop, due to the evolving taste of its audience.

On the issue of rappers evolving into singers and abandoning their true identity, Adetola faulted many Nigerian rappers for succumbing to the pressure of the industry, thereby abandoning their true identity. “This spurs the question of whether Hip-Hop is truly dead”… “because some artistes came into the music scene as rappers, but evolved into something else over time.”

After making note-worthy references to the likes of MI, Elajoe, and even Dagrin, who stayed true to the art while incorporating other artists that delivered amazing hooks on their rap songs, Adetola noted that it was time African rappers went back to the rudiments of the art. 10Ten agreed with Adekoya’s opinion, further stating that it was important for talent financiers across Africa to accept the new version of Hip-Hop artists and invest heavily in them.

Other parts of the discourse explored support for female rappers, identifying and promoting emerging talents through platforms like the MTV Base Cypher, sustaining relevance without watering the true rap essence, among others.

To watch reruns of this MTV Base Musicology episode, tune in to DStv Channel 322 and GOtv Channel 72, on Thursday, 11 August at 20:00 WAT and Sunday, 14 August, at 20:00 WAT.

You can also follow @mtvbasewest across all social media platforms for more exciting scoops from the show and join the conversation using the hashtags #MTVBaseMusicology and #IsHipHopDead.

Identities, Names Of Masterminds Of Owo Church Massacre Released By CDS Irabor

Two of the masterminds of the deadly terrorist attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, South-West Nigeria have been arrested. The suspects described as top commanders of ISWAP in Nigeria, are 32-year old Idris Ojo and 39-year old Jimoh Ibrahim.

Chief of Defense Staff, CDS, General Lucky Irabor who disclosed this to senior Editors at a parley on Tuesday in Abuja, the nation’s capital, said the two were arrested in separate joint security operations involving the Army, Police and the Department of State Services, DSS.

General Irabor said Idris Ojo was arrested in Ayetoro, Ondo State on Sunday, August 7 along with his other commanders, who were already planning another attack before intelligence reports identified his location and he was subsequently arrested in the operation.

The CDS also said four other persons were arrested in Eja, Okehi local government area of Kogi state, in connection with the June 5 attack on the Catholic church in Owo and another attack on a police station in Ada in which a policeman was killed. They are Idris Abdul Malik Omeiza, Momoh Ojowu Abu, Aliyu Yusuf and Auwal Onimisi.
The CDS described all those arrested as top members of ISWAP in Nigeria and they will be publicly paraded soon. General Irabor said massive operations are ongoing in the North-West and North-Central to combat bandits and eliminate them as directed by President Muhammadu Buhari.

DON’T ALLOW ANOTHER CIVIL WAR IN THE COUNTRY, BUHARI URGES NIGERIANS

President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday warned Nigerians not to allow the civil war that took place from 1967 to 1970 to repeat itself in the life of the country.

The president, who identified self-centredness as the main cause of the civil war that claimed one million lives, however submitted that Nigerians will remain Nigerians in one indivisible country.
Speaking at the State House, Abuja, while receiving in audience former state chairmen of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), President Buhari said the self-centredness that led to the loss of about a million lives between 1967-1970 must not be allowed to repeat itself, adding that the CPC was founded on the bedrock of patriotism and loyalty to the unity of Nigeria.

He said: “Our main objective is the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We are human beings. We have our weaknesses, but I can assure you that the patriotism in us is hard earned. We have gone through all the troubles from 15th of January 1966 to date. You know what I mean by this, we have killed a million of ourselves in order to keep this country together.

“I don’t think there can be any practical experience more than that. We are Nigerians. God willing, we remain Nigerians and Nigeria will remain one.

The president urged all members of defunct CPC and political leaders to always be mindful of the larger picture by working towards preserving the unity, peace and integrity of the nation.”
He also urged political leaders to stay focused and uphold the ultimate objective of promoting interest of the country, saying: “We are Nigerians. God willing, we remain Nigerians and Nigeria shall remain one.’’

President Buhari noted that the passion and zeal for improving the livelihood of Nigerians, which culminated in the creation of the political party had not dwindled, calling for more steadfastness as Nigerians.

The president thanked former chairmen of the political party, which was merged to form the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), for always highlighting the achievements of the government, admitting that some areas will surely get more attention.

“I am delighted to welcome the forum of state chairmen of the former Congress for Progressives Change to State House today. I accord great significance to this visit as it demonstrates a determination and commitment to identify with our administration.

“This visit recalls the solidarity with the successes that we have recorded in critical areas of our society. The visit also affords us the opportunity to discuss other issues of interest to the forum.
“I commend members of this forum and all members of the legacy party-CPC, for their continued dedication to the ideals of democratic governance that we all believed in.
“The doggedness with which we pursued our vision and goals that culminated into the success we recorded remain like bright stars in the history of our dear nation,’’ he added.

President Buhari said he was particularly grateful for the “unalterable belief the members of CPC and, by extension, the Nigerian electorate had and still have in me as demonstrated in their unalloyed support for our electoral struggles which reflected in the results that we consistently recorded at the polls over the years”.

He said it was the solid credentials that the CPC possessed that gave the party a prime place in the merger that led to the formation of the APC.

Other political parties in the merger include the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) along with some members from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The president said efforts had been made in appointing some members of CPC in his government, including those in the Federal Executive Council (FEC) like the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Minister of Education, Minister of Water Resources, and Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

“I listened to the remarks of your chairman which highlighted our modest achievements in diverse areas. We shall remain resolute to continue to deliver on the promises we made to Nigerians and to ensure that we attain greater milestones in terms of economic growth, infrastructural development, provision of security and the war against corruption, among other responsibilities of government,’’ he added.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Forum of State Chairmen of the defunct CPC and former Chairman of the party in Niger State, Umar Shuaibu, who described the president as the “Patriarch of the CPC’’, said the party had maintained all its structures across the country, assuring President Buhari of their loyalty, especially in the forthcoming elections.

Shuaibu commended the president for providing strong leadership over the years, particularly in remaining balanced, fair and above board in electoral issues.

“Before you, the opposition was arrested and maltreated, but it is no longer so,’’ he said, adding: “You did not deny them what they denied you when they were in power.’’
He said the CPC had always garnered millions of votes in elections across the country, and would support the APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.