• Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi, Exec. Dir., Admin. Julius Berger Nigeria Plc

Leading engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has declared the multi-dimensional support given it by Nigerian media as responsible for the overwhelming positive public goodwill the organisation enjoyed in the outgoing year.

The company’s Director, Administration, Alhaji Zubairu Ibrahim Bayi who made the declaration during the end of year media parley of the company in Utako Abuja said, “I wish to once again place on record your tremendous assistance in so graciously publishing and giving eloquent voice and distinctive vision to our company’s business and social activities since the year began till now.“

According to him, the shared interests in each others developmental work and pursuit made it possible, adding, “while some of our satisfied and enthusiastic clients and understandably impressed Nigerians could say, the landmark quality project delivery record of the company is responsible for the effective media reportage on Julius Berger projects and general operations across its subsidiaries, an outstanding and evident truth, however, is that our company’s contractual dedication, our commanding engineering and project management quality and our unmatched reliability in project delivery time, could not have publicised themselves without the active cooperation of you, our great media partners, correspondents, bureau chiefs, editors and publishers.“

Alhaji Bayi further said the company owes the foregoing positive development to the irreducible and highly valued understanding and cooperation of the media practitioners, adding, “… I can confidently, even proudly say, Julius Berger is about the most widely and positively reported engineering construction company in Nigeria today.“

He spoke on the idea of the company hosting the annual media parley saying that it is borne out of the company’s sincere desire to get to relate with media partners at a closer range deliberately removed from official communication channels. Bayi added that a strategy like the annual parley easily activitaes  a warmer comradeship and camaraderie that further consolidates a healthy relationship, thus creating for both the Media and Julius Berger an ever progressive mutual understanding that continues to oil the good and worthy bond already established in active and enlightened furtherance of Nigeria’s national development agenda.

Moving forward, Alhaji Bayi continued, “in the context of Julius Berger’s very healthy relationship with the Press, a cursory look into the future indicates a lot of unending possibilities and opportunities that enure to a renewed hope“ even as he expressed the hope to work with the media partners on a stronger scale than ever before, “as we together aspire for greater cooperation and a more productive and rewarding future and country.“

Institutional and Individual media practitioners at the event were clearly apppreciative of the efforts of Julius Berger in relating with the press even as they pledge to continue to oil the wheel of progressive relationship with the company.

The national Secretary of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Shuaibu Usman Leman who represented the NUJ President and delivered the goodwill message of the NUJ at the event, said, “For us in the NUJ, this parley is a welcome development seen as a very creative and working strategy; it is an integral part of your approach towards meaningfully improving the relationship between Julius Berger and the larger society using the media.“ Comrade Shuaibu Usman Leman called the Julius Berger annual media parley “a strategy geared towards building a stronger synergy between the press, Nigerians and the company for the development of Nigeria,“ adding that the idea and implementation of the Julius Berger media parley serves to amplify the serious efforts of the company in contributing to harmonious social engagement for a more informed, peaceful and progressive society within the developmental aspirations of ‘Project Nigeria.‘ “We appreciate Julius Berger for the invitation and we urge the company to continue to uphold the high professional standards and premium quality of work you are known for,“ Comrade Shuaibu said.

On her part, in delivering the goodwill message from the Executive Management of the Nigerian Television Authority, the Director, News, Hajiya Halima Musa, Mni, celebrateted Julius Berger as having, by the company’s annual media parley, created a veritable ‘Meeting Point‘ for busy media practitioners who for the most time do not socialise with each other to engage outside of their hectic and sometimes all-engaging schedules. For this, Hajiya thanked the Executive Management of Julius Berger, urging journalists to give meaningful coverage to Julius Berger’s works and social activities even as she urged for transparency and accountability.

The excutive Director of the Leadership newspaper, Christian Ochiama also thanked the company for it‘s proactive media engagement policy and prayed for the continuing success of Julius Berger.

The Lagos event had the company’s Head of Media Relations, Prince Moses Duku delivering the address of the Executive Management to the media practioners and executives.

Wole Olajide of Stockswatch magazine summed up the views of the media in Lagos thus: “…in fairness to the company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has contributed a lot to the quality delivery of notable infrastructures in this country. As critical as the Nigerian Press is, I do not see any dissenting voice coming up against the popular viewpoint that Julius Berger Nigeria is central to Nigeria’s infrastructural development in all ramifications. We very objectively hail Julius Berger that has guaranteed quality and timely delivery of critical infrastructures in the land.“

Mr. Wole further said, “…Also, I must not fail to mention that this innovative annual end-of-year Julius Berger Management/Media parley event has continued to assist a very transparent, mutually respectful, and helpful relationship between the very independent Nigerian Press and the company. It is worth emulating by other serious corporate brands in the country. But we understand; Julius Berger is the sector,s leading brand.“

Also present from Julius Berger at the Lagos event were Project Coordinator, Lagos-Sagamu Expressway, Engr. Fatima Kosemani, Senior Executive, Strategic Business Development, Mrs Ndifreke Ukochio as well as other staff of the engineering construction company including Emmanuel Isibor, Mobolaji Ogunyemi, , Kelly Idemudia, Teniola Oladapo and Peace Onuoha.

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Gov. Zulum assures NDLEA of enhanced partnership as Marwa rallies Borno stakeholders

Borno state governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum has assured the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA of his commitment to bolstering the current partnership between his government and the anti-narcotics agency to achieve the goal of a drug free society across all 27 local council areas of the state.

Prof. Zulum gave the assurance when he hosted the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) who was in Borno for a three-day war against drug abuse, WADA, advocacy visit to mobilise relevant stakeholders to take ownership of the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

While commending the governor for his remarkable achievements in office, Marwa briefed him on the purpose of his visit as part of his ongoing social advocacy sensitization efforts across the country to engage with stakeholders with a view to cascading WADA efforts at the national level down to the grassroots and communities. He said everything must be done to drastically reduce demand for illicit drugs and cut down access and availability of psychoactive substances because of the nexus between illicit drugs and the security challenges facing the state and the country as a whole.

Governor Zulum in his response acknowledged Marwa’s inspiring leadership qualities everywhere he had served including Borno as the state’s former military governor and his commitment to the drug fight. He assured the NDLEA boss of the readiness of his government to strengthen and enlarge the existing collaboration in the interest of law and order as well as humanity.

While on his advocacy visit to the palace of Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garba Elkanemi, the NDLEA chairman urged the respected monarch to continue his support for the fight against illicit drugs while calling for drug test for intending couples as part of conditions for the conduct of weddings. He said this will discourage a lot of young people from going into substance abuse. In his response, the Shehu assured Marwa that all the 59 district heads under his emirate and the Chief Imam of Borno, Alhaji Zanna Laisu Ibrahim Ahmad present at the meeting will go back to their domains to implement the idea including setting up of drug control committees in their communities.

The same understanding was equally reached in another engagement with the Council of Ulamas led by the Chief Imam, Zanna Laisu Ibrahim Ahmad. The idea was equally endorsed by the Christian community in another meeting held with leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, in Borno. Chairman of CAN in the state, Most Rev Dr. John Bogna Bakeni while commending Marwa’s integrity, hardwork and selfless service to humanity said “the Christian community in Borno is ever ready to partner with you and your agency on this course because government alone can’t fight the drug scourge.”

Marwa and his delegation also made a stop over at the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin Kai, where he encouraged the Theatre Commander, Major General Gold Chibuisi and his commanding officers to continue their support, patriotism and sacrifice for the nation. He called for more collaboration with NDLEA to cut off access to illicit drugs by insurgents as well as drug test and sensitization lectures for troops on the dangers of illicit substances to their wellbeing. Major Gen. Chibuisi in his response promised to make the drug fight part of the counter-insurgency efforts while increasing partnership with the anti-narcotics agency.

In his meeting with chairmen of local government areas in the state, Marwa charged them on collaboration as the agency prepares to establish presence in all the local councils across the country in the coming year. The state Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Hon. Sugun Mai Mele and the LGA bosses assured of their preparedness while offering suggestions on how the synergy will work.

Also speaking during an advocacy visit to the Vice Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri, Prof. Aliyu Shugaba and his management team, the NDLEA boss called for drug test for fresh and returning students to discourage those with disposition to abuse illicit substances. While asking that the school’s counselling unit be strengthened to be able to respond to early signs of drug abuse, Marwa also assured that “we’ll like to work with the university to fish out members of the university community selling illicit drugs.”

In his response, Prof. Shugaba said “drug test is a great idea. We share and buy the idea and believe it will reduce drug abuse. The drug problem is of a serious concern in the university because most of those arrested for theft and other vices are found to be on drugs. As such, we will take your suggestions and implement them immediately.” He called for the setting up of an NDLEA Post on the campus and a Memorandum of Understanding between the university and the agency.

A stakeholders meeting was later held at the Indimi Hall of the university where Marwa and his team had interactions with members of other security agencies, students, transport unions, women groups, Youth Corp members, civil society organisations and many others.

Femi Babafemi

Director, Media & Advocacy

NDLEA Headquarters Abuja

Wednesday 15th November 2023

Kano High Court jails Benjamin Okechukwu Udeagwu and Benjamin Amos Olamide for internet- related offences

A Kano State High Court presided over by Honorable Justice Ibrahim Musa Karaye has convicted and sentenced two fraudsters, Benjamin Okechukwu Udeagwu and Benjamin Amos Olamide to three years imprisonment for internet- related offences.

They were jailed after pleading guilty to one- count separate charges bordering on internet fraud upon their arraignment by the Kano Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

The charge against Udeagwu reads: “That You, Benjamin Okechukwu Udeagwu sometime in September, 2023 in Kano within the jurisdiction of the High Court of Kano with intent to defraud, obtained the sum of $50 by fraudulently impersonating as Brad George a citizen of United States of America which pretence you knew to be false and you thereby committed an offence of cheating by personation contrary to Section 321 of the Penal Code Law and punishable under Section 324 of same law.”

The charge against Olamide reads: “That you Benjamin Amos Olamide ‘m’ sometime in 2022 at Kano, Kano State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did dishonestly induce unsuspecting victims to deliver to you a total sum of $500 ( Five Hundred dollars only) to you as Terry Vince who lives in United States of America, through a gmail account waytospace420cgmail.com which presence you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence of cheating contrary to Section 320 of the Penal Code Law of Kano State and punishable under Section 322 of the same law”

In view of their pleas, EFCC’s counsels, Abubakar Hassan Elbadawi and Fatima Mustapha prayed the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.

Counsels for the defendants, M.J Ella and M.E Ogah pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy, stressing that “the defendants were first- time offenders and have regretted their actions”.

Justice Karaye convicted and sentenced Udeagwu to one year imprisonment or an option of fine of N20, 000 (Twenty Thousand Naira only).

Olamide, on the other hand, was convicted and sentenced to two years imprisonment with an option of fine of N20,000 (Twenty Thousand Naira only).

The two convicts bagged their imprisonment when they were arrested by operatives of the EFCC for impersonation and internet- related offences. They were charged to court and convicted.

Media & Publicity

November 14, 2023.

EFCC arraigns Oladipo Jimoh alongside his firm, Barma Energy Resources Limited,

The Lagos Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, arraigned one Oladipo Jimoh alongside his firm, Barma Energy Resources Limited, before Justice Mojisola Dada of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos on two-count charges bordering on stealing to the tune of $60, 334.59 (Sixty Thousand, Three Hundred and Thirty Four Dollars, Fifty Nine Cents).

Count one reads: “Oladipo Bankole Jimoh and Barma Energy Resources Limited, sometime between 11th October, 2022 and July 2023 in Lagos, within the Ikeja Judicial Division, dishonestly converted to your own use the sum of $47,534.59, property of Vale Blue Limited.”

Count two reads: “Oladipo Bankole Jimoh and Barma Energy Resources Limited, sometime between 11th October 2022 and July 2023 in Lagos, within the Ikeja Judicial Division, dishonestly converted to your own use the sum of $12,800, property of Vale Blue Limited.”

He pleaded “not guilty” to the two- count charges when they were read to him.

Following his plea, prosecution counsel, G.C. Akaogu, prayed the court for a trial date to enable the prosecution to prove its case against the defendants.

“We also pray that the defendant be remanded at a Correctional Centre,” he said. However, defence counsel, A.K. Akpabio, informed the court of the bail application filed on behalf of her clients.

“We pray that the defendant be remanded in the EFCC custody until the bail is perfected,” she said.

Justice Dada admitted the defendant to bail in the sum of N200 million, with two sureties in like sum.

The sureties must be gainfully employed and each must have N100 million in his/her account or a valued landed property.

Justice Dada held that “the defendant shall be remanded at the Correctional Centre pending the perfection of his bail.”

The judge also ruled that “in view of the fact that there are no Correctional officers in court today, due to security reasons, the defendant shall temporarily be remanded in the EFCC custody.”

The case was adjourned till February 12, 2024 for commencement of trial.

Media & Publicity

November 14, 2023.

EFCC arraigns Aisha for criminal misappropriation

The Maiduguri Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, arraigned Aisha Sabo before Justice Fadima Murtala Aminu of the Federal High Court, Damaturu, Yobe State on one -count charge bordering on criminal misappropriation to the tune of N10,473,500.00 (Ten Million, Four Hundred and Seventy-Three Thousand Five Hundred Naira).

The lone-count charge reads: “That you Aisha Sabo on or about March, 2022 at Damaturu, Yobe State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court directly converts the aggregate sum of N10,473,500.00 (Ten Million, Four Hundred and Seventy-Three Thousand Five Hundred Naira) which you reasonably ought to have known that it forms part of proceeds of an unlawful act to wit: criminal misappropriation and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 18 (2) (b) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the same Act.”

The defendant pleaded ‘not guilty’ to the charge when it was read to her.

EFCC Counsel, Muhktar Ali Ahmed, thereafter prayed the court for a trial date while defence counsel, M.M Ngumurumi applied for the bail of the defendant.

Justice Fadima adjourned the matter till January 24, 2024 for commencement of trial and admitted the defendant to bail with two sureties who must be resident in any local government area of Yobe State.

She further ordered that one of the sureties must be a traditional or religious leader, while the second surety must be a reasonable person in Yobe State. All the sureties are to be verified by the EFCC.

Sabo was arrested by operatives of the Maiduguri Zonal Command of the EFCC for converting N10, 473,500.00 belonging to a petitioner to her own use.

Media & Publicity

November 14, 2023.

November 15, 2023

Press Statement

Nigeria Sliding into Totalitarianism, Anarchy – PDP Raises Alarm

…Says Nation’s Democracy, Unity in Danger

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) raises alarm to Nigerians and the International Community that the nation is dangerously sliding into totalitarianism and anarchy under the brazenly repressive and anti-people All Progressives Congress (APC) administration.

The PDP alerts of attempts and actions of a cabal within the Presidency to emasculate the Institutions of Democracy in Nigeria, especially the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Judiciary in the desperation to foist a one-Party State on Nigerians.

This unfolding anti-democratic scenario is not only evident in the manipulation of elections but also in the conflicting judgments by electoral Courts, especially some Election Appeal Court Panels which judgments are in conflict with the express provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022, INEC’s Guidelines and Regulations for elections.

What is more worrisome is that these obnoxiously contradictory judgments are targeted at the PDP to the effect that elections that were clearly won by PDP candidates are snatched away at the Courts and awarded to defeated candidates of the APC contrary to the provisions of the Law.

Aside from the preponderance of such ugly scenarios in Plateau State, the conduct and outcome of certain election petitions in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Nasarawa and other States of the nation where PDP was robbed of victory through the Courts are pointers to a systemic emasculation of the opposition in a bid to impose a one-Party State and pave way for totalitarianism in the country.

This situation is a clear and present danger to the sustenance of Nigeria’s democracy, unity, political stability and corporate existence as a nation, which is capable of breeding agitation, citizens loss of confidence in the system, restiveness, anarchy and chaos.

Democracy must be allowed to thrive as the government of the people as expressed by their Will at elections. Any intrusion, breach, violation and/or transgression against that expressed Will as being witnessed today under the APC is a clear recipe for serious political crisis and portends grave consequences for our country.

It is therefore imperative to draw the attention of Nigerians and the whole world to the undermining and crippling of democracy and the danger our nation is facing at this moment.

The PDP calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the custodian of the government to come clean by speaking out and denouncing any attempt or action that is capable of stifling democracy, the Rule of Law and muzzling of the independence of the Judiciary which is suggestive of a fait accompli on election matters pending before the Courts.

Our Party urges the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) and the President of the Court of Appeal to step in and assert the independence of the judiciary at this critical time for the defence and sustenance of democracy and the Rule of Law in Nigeria

The PDP charges Nigerians and indeed all lovers of democracy across the world to rise to the occasion, speak out and take urgent legitimate steps to defend, protect and preserve our hard-earned Democracy from the onslaught of the APC.

Signed:

Hon. Debo Ologunagba

National Publicity Secretary

• Appeal Court Ruling: Sanwo-Olu hails Judiciary, recommits self to Greater Lagos Agenda

With sense of humility, I welcome the decision of the Court of Appeal, which ruled today in our favour, thereby validating the position of Lagosians who freely cast their ballots to return my deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and I as Governor and Deputy Governor of our dear State. We do not take it for granted.

Today’s judicial pronouncements, like those of the Lagos State Elections Petition Tribunal, have buoyed my confidence in our country’s judicial system. The Court examined all the  issues and did justice to them, without leaving anyone in doubt as to who is the rightful winner of the   election.

Our party, the All Progressives Congress(APC) will continue to maintain its firm belief in the judicial process.

My deputy and I have satisfied all the constitutional requirements and are now more focused on delivering the democratic dividends to our people.

With deep gratitude to the Almighty God, I humbly accept today’s Appeal Court verdict, with a sense of responsibility and a desire to continue with the giant strides of our administration so as to leave a great legacy for our people.

The judicial victory has further strengthened my resolve to impact the lives of Lagos residents positively, regardless of their political persuasion, in line with our THEMES+ development agenda.

We urge our opponents to embrace the olive branch and join our sure march to the Greater Lagos that keeps rising by the day.

May God bless Lagos State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Babajide Sanwo-Olu

15th November, 2023.

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU HONOURS INVITATION TO GUINEA-BISSAU FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY COMMEMORATION

President Bola Tinubu will, on Thursday, join other Heads of State and Government in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau, to celebrate the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary and Armed Forces Day.

President Tinubu will arrive in Bissau on Thursday for the ceremony, which will be hosted by President Umaro Sissoco Embalo.

Guinea-Bissau marked its 50th Independence Anniversary on September 24, 2023, but the Government had scheduled all celebrations for November 16, 2023.

The President is expected to return to Nigeria on Thursday.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

November 15, 2023

NBA commends EFCC on its adherence to the rule of law in the fight against economic and financial crimes and other acts of corruption.

The Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on its adherence to the rule of law in the fight against economic and financial crimes and other acts of corruption.

It gave this commendation on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 when a delegation of the Association led by the Chairperson, Human Right Committee of the NBA, Benin Branch, Edo State, Ebehitale Osarumwense paid a courtesy visit to the Benin Zonal Command of the EFCC.

According to Osarumwense, the dedication of the Commission in keeping faith with the rule of law in combating economic and financial crimes is commendable, urging it to intensify efforts in responding to petitions from the public.

“We appreciate you for accepting to engage with us in this meaningful dialogue. The relationship between our organization and yours has come a long way, I felt this was an opportunity to familiarize and further strengthen the existing cordial relationship between us”, she said.

Responding, the Benin Zonal Commander of EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC, ACE1 Kanu Idagu said the Executive Chairman of the Commission , Ola Olukoyede upon resumption of office, has stressed the need for professionalism, integrity and the supremacy of the rule of law in the works of the EFCC.

He pointed out that the EFCC is a creation of the law and guided by the law. He urged lawyers to always verify claims made by their clients against the EFCC in order not to be misled.

“Our activities are in line with the rule of law. There is nothing we are going to do that will be at odds with the law. So, I want to urge you to always verify claims made by your clients against the EFCC in order not to be misled because the EFCC has zero tolerance for corruption and will not condone any act of professional misconduct in any of its personnel”, he said.

Media & Publicity

November 13, 2023

Court jails eight internet fraudsters Edo State

The Benin Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on November 6, 2023 secured the conviction and sentencing of eight internet fraudsters to various jail terms by Justice Efe Isoken Ikponmwonba of the Federal High Court sitting in Benin, Edo State.

The convicts are: Pele Osai Wisdom, Olise Godspower Iknna , Okeke Benjamin Chinazor , Macdonald Iriaremhen Onajasike, Prince Joshua, Jethro Saapila , Gilbert Nelson Onyeka and Ojo Osatohhanmwen Favour.

They were jailed after pleading guilty to one- count separate charge bordering on obtaining under false pretense and unlawful possession of fraudulent documents.

One of the charges reads: “That you Pele Ossai Wisdom ( a.k.a Dickson Orakh ) sometimes between 19th February 2020 and 10th June 2020 in Ekpoma within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court with intent to defraud did obtain the aggregate sum of N3, 374,96.53 from one Dawn Aschenbrenner, a Canadian national under the pretense that the said money is the legal fee of one Emma Marcus who defrauded her of the sum of $213.832 which pretense you knew is false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(1) (a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act ,2006 and punishable under Section 1(3)of the same Act.

The convicts, upon their arraignment on October 6, 2023, pleaded guilty to their respective charges when read to them, prompting EFCC’s counsels: I.M Elodi, I.K Agwai, Salihu Ahmed and KY Bello to pray the court to convict and sentence them accordingly.

In her judgment, Justice Ikponmwonba convicted and sentenced Pele Ossai Wisdom to 12 months’ imprisonment with an option of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. He also forfeited the cash sum of N3,374.96.53 (Three Million, Three Hundred and Seventy-Four Thousand, Ninety-Six Naira, Fifty-Three kobo) refund to Dawn Aschenbrenner, a Canadian national through the EFCC.

Onyeka, Iknna , Chinazor and Favour were sentenced to three years imprisonment with an option of N200,000 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) fine. The duo of Joshua and Onajasike bagged two years imprisonment with an option of N100,000 (One Hundred Thousand naira) fine. Similarly, Saapila bagged two years imprisonment with an option of N300,000 (Three Hundred Thousand Naira) fine.

In addition, the convicts forfeited mobile phones, laptops and money in their bank accounts, being proceeds of crimes to the Federal government of Nigeria.

The convicts started their journey to the Correctional Centre when they were arrested by operatives of the Commission based on actionable intelligence on their alleged internet fraud-related activities. They were charged to court and convicted.

Media & Publicity

November 13, 2023

CBN To Allow Old Design Naira Banknotes As Legal Tender, Ad Infinitum

Please recall that the Central Bank of Nigeria introduced the redesign of N200, N500 and N1,000 denominations in October 2022 and certain deadlines were set for the old design of these denominations to cease as legal tenders. Without prejudice, the Central Bank of Nigeria wishes to inform the general public of its desire to extend the legal tender status deadline of the old design of N200, N500 and N1,000 denominations, ad infinitum. This is in line with international best practices and to forestall a repeat of earlier experiences. Thus, all banknotes issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), in accordance with Section 20(5) of the CBN Act 2007, will continue to remain legal tender, ad infinitum, even beyond the initial December 31, 2023, deadline. The Central Bank of Nigeria is working with the relevant authorities to vacate the subsisting court ruling on the same subject. Accordingly, all CBN branches across the country will continue to issue and accept all denominations of Nigerian banknotes, old and redesigned, to and from deposit money banks (DMBs). The general public is enjoined to continue to accept all Naira banknotes (old or redesigned) for day-to-day transactions and handle these banknotes with utmost care, to safeguard and protect the lifecycle of the banknotes. Also, the general public is encouraged to embrace alternative modes of payment, e-channels, for day-to-day transactions.

Isa AbdulMumin PhD

Director, Corporate Communications November 14, 2023

Omo-Agege Congratulates Gov. Uzodinma, Ododo; Thanks President Tinubu, Ganduje-Led APC NEC; And Commends Imo, Kogi Electorate For Supporting APC

The Deputy President of the 9th Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege heartily congratulates the Executive Governor of Imo State, His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodinma and Governor-elect of Kogi State, Alhaji Usman Ododo on their decisive electoral victories in the just concluded gubernatorial elections in their respective states.

The former Deputy Senate President notes with profound joy that Governor Uzodinma’s emphatic success at the polls is a clear testament to the overwhelming confidence reposed in him by Imolites who see him work tirelessly daily for their common good. As his dear brother and friend with untiring capacity to do great things by the power of God, Senator Omo-Agege trusts that Governor Uzodinma is primed to do much more amazing things to lift up his good people, and prays that God guides him all the way.

Equally, Senator Omo-Agege is pleased that working with the good people of Kogi State and trusted leaders across the Kogi landscape, His Excellency, Governor Yahaya Bello and the Governor-elect, Alhaji Ododo stood firm to provide wise, focused and strategic leadership for the All Progressives Congress, APC, to win the governorship election in Kogi State. It is his sincere prayer that God will guide Mr. Governor-elect to lead Kogi well.

Senator Omo-Agege also extends his warm congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for allowing his credentials as a great democrat and statesman to speak eloquently for themselves in these off cycle elections, as he easily played the role of the ‘Father of All’ to further strengthen public confidence in our democracy. He equally extends his sincere congratulations to His Excellency, Dr. Umar Ganduje (APC’s National Chairman) and the entire members of the National Executive Committee of the party for their resourceful leadership at this crucial time of these elections.

Signed:

Sunny Areh

(Media Adviser to Senator Ovie Omo-Agege)

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU MEETS ISLAMIC DEVELOPMENT BANK MANAGEMENT, NEGOTIATES MULTI-BILLION DOLLAR FUNDING PACKAGE FOR INFRASTRUCTURE

President Bola Tinubu, on Monday night, in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, advanced negotiations concerning a multi-billion dollar infrastructure finance facility from the Islamic Development Bank to fund a multi-sectoral portfolio of infrastructure projects at the federal and sub-national levels in Nigeria.

This development was the outcome of substantive investment discussions held between President Tinubu and the Vice-President (Country Programs) of the Islamic Development Bank, Dr. Mansur Muhtar, after the President’s return from evening prayers.

“Nigeria is the candle of hope that will light the way for Africa. And once Africa is illuminated, the world will be a brighter place for all of humanity. We are determined to create a future for our gifted youths. Investments in Nigeria will be among the world’s most high-yielding. Investor money will flow easily in and out of our country. Processes will be seamless. And your bank has always been a faithful partner in progress.

“We have serious deficits in port infrastructure, power infrastructure, and agro-allied facilities that will enable sustainable food security in our country. These deficits present unrivalled opportunity for savvy investors in a market that is by far the largest on the continent. Yes, we had the vision to enable Lekki Deep Seaport before others saw it. We must be bold again.

“We inherited serious liabilities, but also assets from our predecessors. We do not make any excuses. There are several sectors replete with investment opportunity for smart investors. Access to finance and guarantees can be a hindrance in some cases. You can come in there. We see you as a critical enabler. You have partnered with us before. We want to scale it up now and do much more with greater ambition and clear vision,” the President stated.

Noting the historic essence of President Tinubu’s swift and decisive economic reforms, the Vice-President of the Islamic Development Bank said the financial world has been monitoring events in Nigeria and has concluded that Africa’s largest economy means business this time.

“Mr. President, we know you inherited a very tough set of circumstances. It is to your credit that you have taken very bold steps without delay. We are ready to work with you. We are ready to support big investments in Nigeria. We agree that if Nigeria succeeds, Africa succeeds. And the world needs Africa to succeed.

“The Islamic Development Bank President announced the provision of $50 billion U.S. Dollars of new investment for the African continent from the Arab Coordination Group (ACG). This was announced at the Saudi-Arab-African Economic Summit. As the largest market and the largest economy in Africa, Nigeria will certainly receive a significant share. We look forward to supporting Nigeria’s economic transformation,” the Islamic Development Bank Vice-President said.

The President concluded by thanking the Islamic Development Bank management while pledging the unwavering commitment of his administration to win investors’ trust and confidence, just as he did in Lagos State many years ago.

Members of the Nigerian delegation present at the meeting in Mecca were: Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State; Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State; Governor Umar Bago of Niger State; Minister of Budget & Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, and others.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

November 14, 2023

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS FAMOUS ACTOR, SAMANJA

President Bola Tinubu has condoled with the family of retired soldier, broadcaster, and veteran actor, Usman Baba Pategi (Samanja), who died on Sunday at 84.

The President described the death of the popular thespian as a painful loss, saying he contributed to the country through the various vocations he pursued in his lifetime.

“The late Pategi chose to obey the call to national duty when the country needed his service. His television show, Samanja, was must-watch entertainment for decades. Through the show, he taught young citizens national values and respect for our servicepeople. He was a patriot who left behind several indelible impressions,” the President said.

President Tinubu encouraged the Pategi family, the people and governments of Niger and Kwara states, the Pategi Emirate Council, and members of the Nigerian entertainment industry to take comfort in the worthy legacy of the deceased.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

November 14, 2023