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

•Says LASG’ll Hold Day of Tributes, Church Service for the Late Military Administrator

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the immediate past chairman of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and former Military Administrator of Lagos State, the late Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (rtd), as a detribalised Nigerian and therefore urged Nigerians to learn from the simplicity, humility and sense of service and dedication that Kanu lived for.

He said Rear Admiral Kanu would be missed dearly because of the big vacuum his death has created as an elder statesman, outstanding military officer and an enviable Admiral.

It would be recalled that Ndubuisi Kanu, a retired Naval Officer and former military administrator of Imo State between 1976 and 1977, died on Wednesday, January 12, at the age of 77 years. During a condolence visit to the deceased family on Friday, January 15, by Governor Sanwo-Olu, his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and top state officials, Lagos State Government promised to participate fully in all the programmes leading to the final burial ceremony of the former Governor.

Speaking during ‘a night of tribute and celebration of Rear Admiral Godwin Ndubuisi Kanu’ held in Onikan, Lagos on Tuesday night, Governor Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State Government would hold a Day of Tributes and Church service to celebrate the exit of the former Military Governor of the State.

He said: “On behalf of the Government and the people of Lagos State, we would be having our own day. We would be doing two events in one. We would be having a proper Church service for him and we would also be having a Day of Tributes for him because there is nothing that we do that would be enough to celebrate this giant of our time.

“He was a man that I have personally come to respect and appreciate. On behalf of the people and government of Lagos State, I want to say without any fear or doubt at all that the late Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Godwin Kanu was indeed a great Nigerian. He was a detribalised Nigerian. He was an outstanding military officer. He was a gentleman and an enviable admiral.

“He was a Lagosian to the core; a man that truly knew how to build bridges and a man that held everybody’s hands across Nigeria. A man that truly believed in the narrative called Nigeria. I believe he was also a true father to his children; a loving husband and a man that all of us have come to acknowledge and respect as an outstanding individual.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu also praised late Kanu’s contribution to Nigeria’s democracy and fiscal federalism, especially his fight, alongside the progressive elements in the country during the June 12, 1993 presidential annulment struggle and the dark days of the military junta for the enthronement of democracy and good governance in Nigeria.

“Leaving the military, he became the lover of his people. He became a defender of his people. He became an advocate for his people because he couldn’t take a back seat. He truly showed to all of us that the NADECO fight was a true cause; a cause that he needed to stand up and be counted for and he led that coalition at the height of it and at the most difficult time of that coalition that led to all the things that we know around June 12, 1993. He brought men and resources together and he did not change his opinion. He was an outstanding Nigerian that we all need to be proud of,” he said.

SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
SEPTEMBER 29, 2021

PRESS RELEASE
LSETF HAS SUPPORTED OVER 40,000 STARTUPS WITH ACCESS TO FINANCE – SANWO-OLU
…Says Tech Firms Have Received Millions Of Grants From State Science And Research Council
…As First Lady Hosts First Lagos Inter-Youth Collaboration

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday disclosed that the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) has so far supported over 40,000 startups with access to finance which in turn has created jobs and contributed to the bid to ensure an enabling environment for businesses, especially budding entrepreneurs to thrive.
The Governor spoke at the maiden edition of the Lagos Inter-Youth Collaboration organized by the Office of the First Lady of Lagos State, held at LTV Blue Roof, Agidingbi, Ikeja, with the theme: “Youths and Moral Values in an Evolving Society: Challenges and Recommendations.”
The programme, according to a statement signed by the Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Office of the Lagos State First Lady, Mrs Olubukonla Nwonah, was designed to expose over 1,000 participants drawn from 100 youth groups both from formal and informal sectors as well as paramilitary institutions across the state to the various intervention programmes of the state government specifically targeted at the youth.
Mr Governor said: “The LSETF is also here. If my calculation is not wrong, they have intervened in over 40,000 start-ups. They have given some people soft loans; they have given some people grants directly; they have given other businesses development plans so that they can indeed develop their businesses to full fruition.
“They have been on for a couple of years and every year, they are doing lots and lots of great things. The programmes are available irrespective of who you are, where you are from or who you know, as long as you are a resident of Lagos.”
The Governor, who also spoke on activities of the Lagos State Science and Research Council, said in the last two years, grants worth millions of naira have been given to various tech firms through the council to support them to grow and build on their innovations.
“The council, headed by the VC of UNILAG, reviews a lot of tech start-up businesses that we have and once they see some of them, they pass them; they give them grants. In the last two years, they have given grants of N10million, N20million, N5million, and N2million to different categories of individuals.
“Our youth need to take advantage of these programmes. See how you can partake and how you can be part of it because it is published everywhere before they get entries. We have been doing it for the past two years and there is another one coming before the end of the year again,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He commended the Office of the First Lady for putting the programme together, saying it would go a long way to build conversations around various initiatives of the government for young people.
In her opening remarks, the First Lady, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu said the Inter-Youth Collaboration was aimed at sensitizing youths on the inculcation of moral values which were gradually being eroded in today’s society, as well as how they can take advantage of intervention programmes of government for the youth.
“Our objectives, among others, are to encourage youth participation in Nation-building, create awareness on civic rights and responsibilities, provide access to opportunities profitable for youths, enlightenment of the youths about the activities of the state government, and re-orientation,” she said.
At the programme, key government MDAs including Ministries of Agriculture, Education, Finance, Wealth Creation and Employment, Youth and Social Development, Science and Technology, Health Management Agency, and Office of Sustainable Development Goals and Investment were on hand to educate participants on programmes of government including Bursaries and scholarship opportunities, low-interest loan packages of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, innovation funds, among others.
Representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were equally on ground to enlighten participants on how to participate in the voting process, while various prizes including laptops, phones, cash rewards and other gift items were won through raffle draws personally supervised by Mr Governor and the First Lady.
The highpoint of the programme was special appearances by Nigerian star actress and producer, Funke Akindele-Bello (Jenifer); as well as hip hop musicians – Humblesmith and CDQ.
SIGNED
OLUBUKONLA NWONAH
ASST DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS
OFFICE OF LAGOS STATE FIRST LADY
SEPTEMBER 29, 2021.

Press Statement
Akeredolu To Oyetola @ 67: You Are A Silent Performer, Engendering Confidence In Governance
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Aketi, SAN, joins family members, friends, acquaintances and associates of Governor Isiaka Gboyega Oyetola of Osun State to celebrate him as he turns 67 today.
Governor Akeredolu describes Oyetola as a silent performer and gift to the people of Osun State.
The Governor notes with excitement the decent achievements of Governor Oyetola in his state since he assumed office over three years ago.
“Ilerioluwa, as fondly called by his supporters and followers, has proven to be a leader with the heart of gold. His selfless commitment to the good of the people and the state of Osun is unparalleled. Oyetola has continued to deploy his vast experience and candour to drive the development of his state.
“His determination to improve infrastructure, human and capital development in the State is alluring. Governor Oyetola’s visionary leadership, coupled with his calm and unassuming personality, is an asset that has justified the confidence of the good people of the state. He has engendered confidence in governance,” the Governor says.
Governor Akeredolu says the Osun State Governor is an amazing friend whose sense of humanity and commitment to a fruitful relationship is heart-warming.
Arakunrin Akeredolu wishes Governor Oyetola God’s favour, grace and continued wisdom on this memorable day.
Congratulations
.
Signed:
Olabode Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 29, 2021.

APAPA GRIDLOCK: PORT ONDO IS THE WAY OUT – GOV AKEREDOLU
•Says Investors Waiting For Partnership
“Southwest States Working Together On Agric Development”
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has called on the Federal Government to look into the establishment of the Deep Sea Port in the state.
Governor Akeredolu noted that the proposed Port Ondo will go a long way to decongest the Apapa Port in Lagos State.
The Governor, who said Ondo State is strategically positioned, explained that goods are moved through the Sunshine state to the Southeast, Southsouth, Northwest and Northcentral.
He spoke on Tuesday at the South-West Export Enlightenment and Engagement Forum held at the International Culture and Event Centre, Igbatoro Road, Akure, the state capital.
The theme of the event was “Maximizing Export Potentials In The South-West Region For Economic Growth”.
Governor Akeredolu stressed that investors have already shown interest in developing the Port, saying the state has the deepest draught in West Africa.
“Everything going to southeast or South-South and the North pass through Ondo state. All these activities will make us to advise the federal government on the importance of Port Ondo.
“Apapa will be decongested. We can boast of the deepest draught in west Africa. We are ready and we have done our work and people have shown interest. It is a pity we have to go through a lot of protocols including the port declaration,” the Governor said.
Governor Akeredolu, who also highlighted his administration’s efforts on agriculture development, disclosed that Governors in the Southwest are steadily working together on the sector through the Southwest Agric Company (SWAgCo).
According to the Governor, SWAgCo is a registered company under the Oodua conglomerate which was created for effective exploration of agricultural resources in the region.
Arakunrin Akeredolu said the Akure airport which was originally designed as a cargo airport should be given due attention so that it can serve its purpose.
“The airport in Akure is so busy now but it is not serving the purpose for which it was established. The Akure airport was established as a cargo airport. We have said it should have a refrigerated area where people can refrigerate their goods before exporting them,” he said.
While speaking on the efforts of his administration in improving Cocoa production, the Governor said: “In Ondo state, we have had some transformation since we got in. Ondo is the leading exporter of cocoa in Nigeria. It is an unfortunate development that we are not the leading producer in West Africa.
“When we came in, we knew there must be a transition. I see Agric as a business. When we came in, I met experts who spoke to us. They made a case for Agricpreneurs. That led us to Youth on the Ridges. We have trained about 5000 youth. That was our approach to it.
“Today, we try to unlock the Agric sector by creating a conducive environment. In creating it, we are a One-Stop-Shop. We have the Ondo State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (ONDIPA) here, when you need land they must look for it.
“Today, we are not seriously exporting cassava but we need to do that. Many countries are in dare need of cassava. We have the cassava to ethanol plant. We have gone into partnership with NNPC. Another cassava to ethanol company is coming up in Ose. Cassava for us becomes so important.
“And poultry. We have set up an industry that will be producing powder egg. The company is almost afoot to produce powder egg. And on Cocoa added value, we have tried to do that. Today, Ondo State can be proud of a chocolate factory.
“We have put a lot of intervention in place to double our cocoa export. We have a single estate approach in jugbere. We have 10,000 hectares in Jugbere. We should be able to improve to 150,000 metric tons per year from 80,000 that we currently produce.
“We have started a major revolution in Nigeria here in Ondo State called red gold. It has to do with palm. We must support the zero oil economy,” Governor Akeredolu stated.
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 28, 2021.
Press Release
Akeredolu Hails Appointment Of Engr. Komolafe As NUPRC CEO
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has congratulated the Ondo-State born Engr. Gbenga Komolafe who was recently nominated by President Muhammadu Buhari as the pioneer Chief Executive Officer of the newly created Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).
Governor Akeredolu, who hailed the nomination of Engr. Komolafe, appreciated President Buhari for finding an Ondo State indigene worthy of the position.
Describing the appointment as evidence of unblemished service, with years of hardwork and career-building, the Governor said the new appointee, being a Fellow of Nigerian Society of Engineers, FNSE, Council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria, COREN, and Member of the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, has the required experience for the new assignment.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Richard Olatunde reads: “I am delighted to congratulate Engr. Komolafe on this appointment. It is a great opportunity to further deploy your experience and expertise in the service of the nation. Your capacity and capability are never in doubt. I congratulate you.”
Governor Akeredolu also charged Engr. Komolafe to be ready to surmount any challenge in the course of his new assignment, adding that his years of leadership at various levels of the oil and gas industry has prepared him for the new role.

Press Statement
Akeredolu Mourns Supreme Court Justice, Samuel Oseji
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, expresses sadness over the death of Hon. Justice Samuel Chukwudumebi Oseji of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
Describing his death as devastating, Governor Akeredolu laments that Justice Oseji died at a time when his wealth of experience and knowledge is most needed in the legal profession and the country.
“He was only appointed in the year 2020. He is yet to fully deploy his rich knowledge of the law to further enrich our legal firmament in the country.
“We will not only miss his learnings and candour, but also his renditions with experience. Undoubtedly, the bench has lost one of its finest. He will be sorely missed,” says the Governor.
Governor Akeredolu commiserates with the immediate family of the deceased and the Supreme Court of Nigeria, while praying to God to grant him eternal rest and keep him in his bosom.
Signed:
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
September 28, 2021.

PRESIDENT BUHARI CONGRATULATES D’TIGRESS, 2021 AFROBASKET CHAMPIONS
President Muhammadu Buhari congratulates the D’Tigress, Nigeria’s senior women basketball team on their victory at the 2021 FIBA AfroBasket Women’s Championship in Cameroon.
The President is extremely delighted to see our team excel over and over again on the regional and world stages,demonstrating that with hardwork,
resilience and dedication, victory is sure.
President Buhari joins Nigerians in celebrating the unique achievements of the winning team, praying that the discipline and talent which made them three-time Africa champions in a row, will inspire more breakthroughs in their careers.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 28, 2021

Press Statement
Stop Dumping Wastes Into Water Channels, Waterways, Obuah Urges
…Warns Against Building On Waterways
Sole Administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA), Bro Felix Obuah has again warned Port Harcourt residents and those doing business in the State to desist from discharging wastes and heavy objects into the water channels and waterways to avoid possible floods that could occur as a result of the blockage.
The RIWAMA boss spoke against the backdrop of the regrettable serious flooding of roads, streets, houses and offices in parts of Port Harcourt following heavy torrential rains in the State in the last few days.
He said the floods which have left so many homeless and properties destroyed could be partly attributed to the blockage of the water channels and waterways which may have naturally forced the waterflow out of its natural routes to enter residences and offices, and blamed this on the stubbornness of residents who have blatantly refused to heed the State sanitation laws and RIWAMA campaigns against indiscriminate dumping of wastes.
The RIWAMA Sole Administrator said residents should learn from the ugly experience and join RIWAMA in preaching the gospel of decent living and civil conduct in their homes, offices and markets to help reduce the negative impact of these natural disasters whenever they occur.
Bro Obuah also warned land developers to strictly follow the survey plan of their areas and refrain from building or setting structures on waterways and channels.
He regretted that land speculators are most often blindfolded by profit motives that they no longer observe or respect these natural boundaries and landmarks.
“We have always warned and pleaded that people should keep away from waterways and channels and not block them for free flow of water when it rains. Rather than see reason and heed our instructions they see it as pestering them but when it happens and their lives are in serious danger they turn around to blame the government and the concerned agencies. I don’t think this is fair. All our efforts are for your own good only if you can listen to us and keep all the sanitation laws and a lot of these disasters like the floods will be avoided,” Bro Obuah advised.

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

Wednesday, September 29, 2021.
SANWO-OLU: ATTACKERS OF SECURITY AGENTS WILL FACE JUSTICE

The government of Lagos State has noted with deep concern attacks on law enforcement agents by hoodlums. Such senseless attacks are attempts to trample on law and order by those who are desperate to turn our society upside down. This will not be allowed to happen.

In the latest of such attacks, a Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP), Kazeem Abonde, was killed on September 23, 2021 in Ajao Estate by yet unknown hoodlums. I have directed the Commissioner of Police to ensure that all those who participated in this savagery are brought to justice. This is to encourage our law enforcement agents that we will always stand by them as they carry out their duties and, at the same time, send a strong signal to criminals that any attack on our officers will not go unpunished.

Such display of savagery as the one in which CSP Abonde died will not be allowed in our state, no matter the circumstances. The law is there for us all, should there be need to redress any perceived wrongdoing. Citizens who take the law into their own hands are promoters of jungle justice, which will not be allowed to take root in our dear Lagos.

I commiserate with the family of the fallen officer and the Police Command on the loss of this fine officer whose diligence and bravery have been applauded by his colleagues and relations. May The Almighty bless his soul.

BABAJIDE SANWO-OLU
Governor, Lagos State.

Press Statement
September 27, 2021
Nigerians Can’t Live With Terrorism, Poverty For Next 40 Years, PDP Replies Sheriff
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has told the former Governor of Borno state, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, to perish the thoughts of All Progressives Congress (APC) ruling for 40 years, as Nigerians are resolute in their decision not to allow the APC and its associated bloodletting, killings, violations, corruption and economic hardship in our polity, beyond May 29, 2023.
The PDP’s position is predicated on the arrogant and reckless assertion by Sheriff that their aspiration is to continue to foist APC in government for the next 40 years, in defiance of the decision by Nigerians to do away with their party by 2023.
Ali Modu Sheriff must know that Nigerians are aware of the desperate plots by the APC and its members that are behind acts of terrorism, banditry, treasury looting, violation of rights and electoral manipulations in our country, to continue to enjoy official cover using the APC as a platform for their reprehensible activities.
Nigerians have decided to kick out the APC in the 2023 general election and no amount of manipulations or evil machination can sway that resolve to ensure that the APC does not stay a day beyond May 29, 2023.
The PDP therefore has nothing but pity for Ali Modu Sheriff and his co-travelers as the conspiracies against our dear nation will surely come to naught.
Signed:
Kola Ologbondiyan
National Publicity Secretary

PRESIDENT BUHARI GREETS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, NEPC, OLUSEGUN AWOLOWO AT 58
President Muhammadu Buhari warmly felicitates with Executive Director/CEO, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Olusegun Awolowo Jr., on his 58th birthday, joining family and friends to celebrate with the lawyer and administrator, whose contributions to nation building remain indelible.
President Buhari notes Awolowo’s willingness to work in public service over many years, serving four presidents in different capacities, and now leading the policy of “zero-oil’’, which seeks to stimulate potentials for export in some key areas of the economy that will generate foreign exchange.
The President congratulates the Executive Director, who was elected President of National Trade Promotion Organizations (TPOs) from ECOWAS member States, due to his diligence and commitment to encouraging inward–outward linkage for the Nigerian and African economy.
As the scion of Chief Obafemi Awolowo family turns 58, President Buhari prays for his good health and strength to keep serving the nation he loves so much.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 27, 221

Press Statement
Conferment Of IKEMBA IDEMILI
Obuah Dedicates Award To God, Gov Wike, Less Privileged
Amid pomp and pageantry, Bro Felix Amechi Obuah, Sole Administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA), Saturday, September 25, 2021 was conferred with the most prestigious IKEMBA IDEMILI by the 17 Idemili Towns in North and South Idemili Local Government Areas of Anambra State.
The Award which entitles the recipient membership of the Igwe-in-Council of all the 17 towns also qualifies him as an honorary indigene of Idemili land as a whole.
Elated Bro. Obuah who also holds the traditional title of MBA-ANABARA-AGU I, EZE ORASHI I, OSAEMIRI KA OGBALIKPO, PARAMOUNT RULER, GO-ROUND COMMUNITY amongst others expressed his appreciation to the traditional rulers of Idemili, Kingmakers, opinion leaders and the good people of Idemili for finding him worthy for the honour.
Strengthened by the support of his home state, Rivers, powered by the quality leadership of His Excellency, Chief Bar. Nyesom Wike that has made Rivers State the epicenter of good governance and exemplary leadership in Nigeria, the IKEMBA IDEMILI (HIGH CHIEF FELIX AMECHI OBUAH) said he dedicated the Title to God and Gov Wike for what God is using the governor to do in the state.
The honour, he said, is for all Rivers people particularly the less privileged, and goes to show that the infrastructural revolution in the State being powered by the Wike administration is a potential value for all Rivers sons and daughters and has also shored up events and great minds in the state to the front burner of national discourse.
Bro Obuah promised to use his new position of IKEMBA IDEMILI which also makes him a fellow of Nzuko Ime Obi and honorary member of Leaders of Thought (Idemili) to enhance the good relationship between Rivers people and their neighbouring Igbo people for the collective good of the two ethnic nationalities.
“This honour bestowed on me is not for me alone. It’s an honour to the Rivers State government, the mass of Rivers people and particularly the less privileged. It goes further to show that whatever you do as a people or as an individual, people are watching you. Our individual and collective conduct has a lot to continue to our good image as the people-oriented leadership of Gov Nyesom Wike has demonstrated by adding value and honour to all Rivers people anywhere in this country. This is why I do not hesitate to dedicate this Award to God, Governor Wike and the less privileged. To God be the glory and may God bless Rivers State”, IKEMBA IDEMILI prayed.

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

Tuesday, September 28, 2021.

Press Statement
Gov Wike Deserves All The Honours, Award Of Excellence, Courageous Leadership – Bro Obuah
It’s interesting and gladdening to note that all the efforts and the exemplary leadership of Governor Nyesom Wike are being appreciated even by the religious and so many other social institutions outside the political class, Bro Felix Obuah has noted.
The Sole Administrator, Rivers State Waste Management Agency, and immediate past State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bro Obuah said of greater interest and satisfaction is the Award of Excellence and Courageous Leadership to the Nation conferred on His Excellency by Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion).
Describing the award as most deserving, the RIWAMA boss congratulated the governor for the honour and praised him for his focus and incontrovertible openness in leadership.
Bro Obuah observed that the avalanche of awards to Gov Wike is a proof of the popular belief that when the righteous is on the throne the people rejoice.
He said while the recognitions and acknowledgement of all the deeds and quality leadership of Gov Wike are good and gratifying, the most desirable is for other political office holders and those in positions of authority to emulate him and replicate same in their respective offices, communities, local government councils, other states and in the country generally for a better citizenry, and for the collective good of the people.
Bro Obuah said imbibing and sustaining this legacy as epitomized by His Excellency especially by our youths who are the leaders of tomorrow will be the best reward to the Governor for his efforts.
“As long as his ideals live and are sustained, so will he remain alive in our minds, state and the nation. I joyfully join other friends and admirers within and outside our state to congratulate and rejoice with His Excellency and pray the good Lord to continue to strengthen him to do more for our state and humanity,” Bro Obuah prayed.

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

Monday, September 27, 2021.

Ararume: Buhari’s Deft Masterstroke

By Erasmus Ikhide

SENATOR Ifeanyi Ararume’s appointment as the pioneer Chairman of the new NNPC has been applauded by many as one of best appointment made by President Muhammadu Buhari since he assumed office over six years ago.

Ararume has both robust experience in the private and public sector which will rub off positively on the altered NNPC.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) was created on April 1, 1977 by the then military administration of General Olusegun Obasanjo as a State owned Oil Company to play in the oil and gas space. It was patterned after Saudi Arabia’s Aramco and Brazil’s Petrobras.

With the passage of time, mismanagement of the company has made it descend into a white elephant project with huge financial losses being declared by it annually while its counterparts all over the world are wildly
profitable. It recently made its first profit after over a decade of colossal losses.

The stakeholders in the industry that lays the golden egg for the nation
pressed for reforms through the Petroleum Industry Bill which was recently passed into law as the Petroleum Industry Act which has changed the status of the NNPC into a Limited Liability Company with effect from February 2022. Now that the NNPC will be transiting from a government owned agency into a profit driven organization, it needs someone at the helm to provide direction and uncommon leadership in order for it to meet its goals.

Senator Ararumen has been here for quite a while. Few people know that he
was once resident in Benin City where he owned the largest pharmaceutical
chain at the time there. His business interests spreads across the length
and breadth of Nigeria and in the process built sturdy bridges across the
nation. Even though the new NNPC will be privately run as from next year as
President Buhari seeks further amendments to the PIA law, it also requires someone with a strong political background to effectively steer its ship as it will take some time for it to be completely weaned off from total
government dependence. Ararume perfectly fits the bill with his twin public
and private sector experience.

He is no political green horn as he has been in the cloak and dagger game
since the defunct Third Republic where he pitched his tent with the National Republican Convention (NRC) as a member of its national finance
committee between 1990 and 1993. He was elected Senator representing Imo
North (Okigwe) between 1999 and 2007 and was the Chairman of the Senate
Committee on Power and Steel, Vice Chairman of the Senate committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chairman Public Hearing committee for South-West zone on amendments to the 1999 Constitution, member of the National Assembly Joint Constitution Review Committee (JCRC) and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debts. He was Chairman of the Southern Senators’ Forum.

But for the flawed electoral system, he would have been the Imo State
Governor in 2007 as he won the primaries of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) but his name was unfairly substituted with that of Charles Ugwu. His popularity was affirmed as his exit from the party in protest of the gross
injustice led to its electoral loss when the Imolites gave a protest vote
to Ikedi Ohakim of the Peoples Progressive Alliance (PPA).

Ararume has the grit and street wisdom to lead the NNPC to the path of
sustainable profitability as he is a proven and tested manager of men and
resources. Imo state where he hails from is a member of the NDDC and he has been in the forefront of resource control and greater devolution of powers
to the states as a firm believer in true federalism.

Even though his position as the Chairman will be nominal as the executive powers will reside with Mele Kyari who is the Managing Director of the NNPC, his position is akin to that of the Queen of England who reigns while
the Prime Minister governs. He will act as a great stabilizing force for a
fairer deal for Nigerians in the beleaguered energy sector whose dividends has eluded them since crude oil was first discovered in commercial quantity in Oloibiri in present day Bayelsa State in 1956.

His input will be highly valued and he will use his vast local and global
contacts to ensure that the corporation becomes wildly commercially
successful. The position of the Chairman of a Board even though ceremonial is usually reserved for the cream of the crop in local and global circles.
Al Gore, former US Vice-President served as a Member of the Board of
Directors of Apple after he left the White House in 2001. Condelezza Rice
served on the Board of Chevron after her first stint in public office when
she served on the committee that permanently dismantled the then Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR).

Coming down locally, the nation’s foremost downstream oil and gas company, Ocean and Oil (OANDO) has Major-General Mohammed Magoro who had a distinguished military career as a Minister both under the military regimes
of Olusegun Obasanjo and Muhammadu Buhari when they held sway as military leaders as well as a Senator as its Chairman. Former Chief of Army Staff and Ex Defence Minister, General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma who is a famous soldier served as the Chairman of Union Dicon Salt, the defunct Universal Trust Bank and many blue chip companies. Professor Pat Utomi, a renowned political economist and management scholar served as Chairman of the defunct Platinum Bank and is on the board of many successful companies, including BusinessDay and Linkserve.

There will be the dawn of a new era with Ararume as the new NNPC Chairman
and the ailing corporation will be properly guided to profitability with
his uncommon leadership, especially at a time when the demand for fossil
fuels all over the world is on a steep decline. The UK for example has set
2030 as the exit date for fossil fuel driven vehicles in favour of electric
powered ones. Their foremost science and technology university, Imperial
College has scrapped Petroleum Engineering from its curriculum.

There will no doubt be a shift to more sustainable areas like gas and
renewable energy. Ararume is well prepared with his education obtained from the United States and Nigeria to lead this energy restructuring both into
the new world order as well as making the corporation profitable.

Erasmus Ikhide contributed this article from Lagos and can be reached via:
ikhideerasmus@gmail.com, +2348035032123.

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNOR
PRESS RELEASE
NIGERIA AT 61: SANWO-OLU TASKS NIGERIANS ON FAIRNESS, EQUITY, JUSTICE

•Says Nigeria’s Progress Depends on Every Citizen’s Support

•VAT Collection Will Help Lagos to Do More for Citizens – Governor

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Sunday charged Nigerians to work toward the prosperity of the country, saying Nigeria could be on the path of progress if the citizens continue to display fairness, equity and justice.

He gave the advice on Sunday at the 61st national Independence Day Celebration service held at the Chapel of Christ The Light, Alausa, Ikeja, which was attended by his wife, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; the Chief of Staff, Mr. Tayo Ayinde, members of the State Executive Council as well as religious leaders in the State.

Governor Sanwo-Olu who described the theme of the service ‘Righteousness exalts a nation’ as apt, said building a nation is about people doing the right things not only once but all the time.

He said: “We know Nigeria is going through a lot. We know that our country is going through turbulent times in our polity, management of affairs, security challenges, pandemic, unemployment, inequality, inflation and issues that are ravaging the entire world and also affecting us. But in all of these, God remains God and He will continue to stay and abide with us.

“We all need to come together. Like the Preacher said on the pulpit, ‘Righteousness exalts a nation’ is all about doing the right thing not only once but doing well all the time. It is not about Mr. Governor. It is not about the commissioner. It is about all of us. It is about ensuring that we have good conduct and continually display fairness, equity and justice as people and as a nation.

“We need to admonish and encourage ourselves that as we celebrate our 61st anniversary as a nation; it is time for each and every one of us to play our parts. We are all in it together. When Nigeria prospers, we will also prosper. We need the prosperity of Nigeria; we need the prosperity of Lagos for each and everyone one of us to prosper. This is our nation and if the land prospers, we the people will prosper.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu while stressing his administration’s commitment toward delivering on his campaign promises, said Lagos will do more if the State is allowed to collect the Value Added Tax.

“We should ensure there is equity and fairness and that is why we talk about issues around VAT. We know and we believe that if Lagos gets more, we would do more. If Lagos can get a lot more, we will a do a lot more because that is what we deserve; that is what is expected, that is what is required and that is what we are committed to.

“Year in, year out; your government implements over 90 percent of the budget. What it means is that if we have the capacity to get more, we will be able to give more to the citizens.

“I want to assure you that this government, your government will leave no stone unturned to ensure that we don’t shy away from our primary objective and responsibility, which is the security of life and property.

“As a Governor, I will do everything with every strength that I have to ensure that we set this State on a path of prosperity because I want each and every Lagosian to prosper. I will ensure that we create a Lagos that will work for the people of the State so that our tomorrow can be better than today.”

Also speaking, the Bishop of Lagos Mainland Diocese, Rt. Revd. Akinpelu Johnson, urged Nigerians to allow righteousness to reign in the country.

Bishop Johnson also called for a new constitution that will guarantee equity and justice for all the citizens of Nigeria.

He commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for his performance in the office within two years, especially in the area of infrastructure, considering how the incumbent administration is carrying out projects simultaneously in different parts of Lagos State.

The Bishop also hailed Governor Sanwo-Olu for successfully managing the COVID-19 pandemic in Lagos State.

SIGNED
GBOYEGA AKOSILE
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
SEPTEMBER 26, 2021

September 27, 2021
Press Statement
PDP National Convention: Transportation Sub-Committee to Meet on Tuesday
In preparation for the 2021 National Convention of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), all members of the Transportation Sub-Committee are invited to an opening meeting slated for Tuesday, September 28, 2021 at the NEC Hall of the PDP national secretariat, Abuja at 12 noon.
Members are advised to note that Covid-19 protocol on public gatherings will be strictly observed.

Signed:
H.E Dr. Ibrahim Dankwambo
Chairman, Transportation Sub-Committee
Convener