Saturday, 30 May 2015
Photo: Meet President Buhari's ADC
Buhari’s inaugural speech, powerful agenda for Nigeria –John Kerry
The United States Secretary of State, John Kerry, on Friday, described President Muhammadu Buhari’s inaugural speech as laying out “a powerful agenda.”
Kerry, who gave assurance that the United States would support the new administration to tackle insurgency and the economic challenges bedevilling the country, was accosted by journalists within the venue of the inauguration immediately after the event.
He said, “The inauguration is historic and very promising. The President made a very important speech, laid out a very powerful agenda and the United States is prepared to work very closely to help to do and everything we can on the economy, Boko Haram and other issues. The President did a very great job today.”
Others who also spoke with our correspondent at the venue of the event on Friday were former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, an All Progressives Congress chieftain and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Chief Audu Ogbeh; former Anambra State governor, Chimwoke Mbadunuju; and a member of the House of Representatives, Opeyemi Bamidele.
They hailed the agenda set out by Buhari in his inaugural speech.
Atiku, who described the inauguration as historic, said the President’s inaugural speech was a reflection of the APC manifesto.
He said, “It is a very historic day for our democratic process and for Africa. His promises are based on the party’s manifesto and I believe we will all work towards achieving the objectives.”
Bamidele said the speech reflected seriousness, focus and “demonstrated the resolve of a man who is determined to really make a difference.”
He added, “And going by the antecedent of the Vice-President, I have no doubt that the administration will hit the ground running. I also have no doubt that this should mark the true beginning in the kind of the transformation that we need in the area of building our economy, strengthening our democracy and ensuring good governance in this country.”
Mbadunuju also expressed confidence that Buhari would deliver on his promises.
Fani- Kayode, Anenih and other Nigerians react on President Muhammadu Buhari’s Inaugural Speech
Nigerians yesterday reacted to the President Muhammadu Buhari’s inaugural speech.
Fani-Kayode: ‘’I believe his part of non vendetta will be true, all Nigerians should join hands to see Nigeria move forward.
“I believe it was a promising speech and sincerely hope that he is true to what he has said especially on the issue that he will not be on a vendetta mission. I hope he is saying the right thing; hope his words will be proved to be truth.
“It is incumbent upon all of us as politicians to ensure that the next four years go on smoothly. I trust that all will be well and the country will move forward.”
Iyom Josephine Anenih
Pioneer National Woman leader of the PDP and former Minister of Women Affairs and delegate to the 2014 National Conference.
“I like President Muhamadu Buhari’s speech. He was very kind to former President Jonathan by acknowledging the role he played in keeping Nigeria one and united. His avowed blueprint when implemented will definitely spell a positive Change for this country. His speech was very states manly. Very reassuring to the nation.”
The Director- General, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, NGF, Asishana Okauru
“ the speech is very encouraging. It has a lot of accommodation in it between the federal government and the states in moving the country forward and the NGF will be ready to participate fully. “
Festus Okoye: Executive Director, Human Rights Monitor and member of the 2014 National Conference:
“The speech lifted the spirit of despair and fatalistic resignation that enveloped Nigeria in the last few years. It was both inspirational and uplifting. He clearly mapped out his navigational chart and direction. His pledge to be for all and for none is a clear indication that he will run a just and fair administration.”
HDP asks Buhari to probe Adoke, EFCC
The Presidential candidate of Hope Democratic Party, HDP.
The immediate past AGF, Mohammed Adoke, SAN, sabotaged the trial of some members of the the “cabal” behind the oil subsidy scam, which occasioned untold hardship on Nigerians within the past two months.
“Our position remains that the Attorney General of the Federation and other such Ministers, and the EFCC, who played a major role in the connivance and encouraging the fuel subsidy scam, should be probed to recover trillions of naira belonging to Nigerians now in their possession.
“We demand that the government of Buhari must do this to earn the respect and confidence of Nigerians and the international community and to assuage the embarrassment the government officials have caused the entire nation and the suffering people of Nigeria.”
Aisha Buhari closes beauty parlour in Kaduna
Soft-spoken but extremely eloquent, there are many things that make Aisha Buhari, wife of Nigeria’s new president thick. Blessed with an infectious smile; many, often as a result of her warm disposition, underrate the power that lies in her.
Though, only soaring in popularity in recent months especially in the build up to the March 28 presidential elections where her husband, Muhammadu, a retired military general and former Head of State, coasted to an overwhelming victory, Aisha has always been a known face especially among people who seek to pamper their bodies. The First Lady, until recently, owned one of the biggest spas and beauty institute in the country. Situated along Camp Road, a high brow area of Ungwan-Rimi Government Residential Area in Kaduna State, Hanzy Spa and Hanzy Beauty Institute was always a beehive of activities all week long. It is the first beauty institute in Northern Nigeria and is a National Board of Technical Education accredited vocational training centre and registered by the Ministry of Education with the aim of exploring the untapped wealth in the emerging beauty industry.
However, since the victory of her husband in late March before his swearing-in in Abuja, the nation’s capital, on Friday, Aisha has since closed down the beauty parlour to take up the new role of Nigeria’s First Lady. The spa and beauty institute patronised by individuals across class, was sighted close to the private residence of the immediate past Vice President, Namadi Sambo. The institute was consulted by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation/Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company to help train individuals under its Youth Empowerment and Skill Acquisition Programme.
But as popular and strategically-placed as the spa and beauty institute was, not many knew Aisha was the brains behind it. Like her more popular husband who is famed for shying away from limelight and prefers to stay at the background most of the time, she operated the business only as a professional and not as wife of a former Head of State at the time. Many clients, who visited the place and also came across her, attested to how simple and impressive at customers’ relations she was.
But Aisha didn’t just venture into the business of pampering people’s skin and bodies – she worked very hard to learn the tricks of the business and how to succeed in it. A trained esthetician who obtained a diploma in Beauty Therapy from the Carlton Institute of Beauty Therapy, Windsor, United Kingdom and a certificate course from the French Beauty School, Esthetique Academie Dubai, she is a member of the United Kingdom’s Vocational Training and Charitable Trust and the International Health and Beauty Council.
In an interview she granted Thisday Style last year, the beautiful Adamawa State-born mother of five said: “I’m a very busy person who does her things quietly. I keep to my profession as an esthetician, managing my spa and beauty institute both in Kaduna and Abuja. I also personally perform some advanced facial treatments like mesotherapy, gold facial and application of TCA etc. I have a number of documentations on my experience in this area including writing a book titled “The Essentials of Beauty Therapy.”
Though, now saddled with the bigger responsibility of giving her ageing husband the needed moral and emotional support required to bring massive transformation in a country craving for change, Aisha’s training and experience as a beauty expert could come to bear in the colouration of things within her control in the coming weeks. For neighbours close to the First Lady’s now closed beauty institute, they would miss the atmosphere she brought to the area.
Tuesday, 26 May 2015
BREAKING: Court orders NDLEA out of Kashamu’s home
Justice Ibrahim Bubba of a Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the personnel of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, out of the home of fugitive senator-elect, Buruji Kashamu.
Mr. Kashamu had been under house arrest since Saturday morning when anti-narcotic agents secured his property.
The NDLEA had said Mr. Kashamu was detained to ensure he appears in court to face extradition proceedings on Monday.
The lawmaker-elect is wanted by United States authorities for alleged drug related offences.
Despite the house arrest, the NDLEA failed to take Mr. Kashamu to court on Monday.
The matter has subsequently been adjourned till 4th of june.
Monday, 25 May 2015
Photos: Ghastly accident in Lagos this morning
A ghastly accident occurred along Estate bus stop in Yaba, Lagos this morning. Thankfully, no one died. Another photo after the cut...
Photos: Lewis Hamilton gets touchy-feely with Gigi Hadid amid new romance rumours
Photo: 24yr old accountant murdered by ritualists in Port Harcourt
Jonathan mismanaged Nigeria –Obasanjo
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo fired a fresh salvo the way of President Goodluck Jonathan, on Sunday, when he looked back at the last eight years and returned with a verdict: The country had been poorly managed under Jonathan.
Sunday, 24 May 2015
Photos: Chelsea celebrate the 2014-15 Premier League title at Stamford Bridge
Sunday afternoon at Stamford Bridge the Premier League champions Chelsea celebrated their title victory, the third under manager Jose Mourinho.
The club have been top of the table since day one and a few weeks ago they confirmed their title with a 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace.
Since then they’ve drawn 1-1 with Liverpool and lost 3-0 away at West Brom but against Sunderland on the final day they won 3-1 to preserve their unbeaten home record.
At the full-time whistle the players, coaching staff and their families came back onto the pitch to celebrate with the fans.
It was a very emotional event, not least because it was the final team that Didier Drogba would play for the club, after he announced that he would leave at the end of the season.
For some players like Cesc Fabregas and Gary Cahill it was their first Premier League title whilst for others like captain John Terry it was their fourth.
Nicki Minaj's ex Safaree now dating Meek Mill's ex, K. Michelle
Photos: Dbanj dapper in purple suit in new photos from Texas
Lewis Hamilton’s on £641,000 a week at Mercedes, now highest paid British sportsman
Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton today signed a new 3-year deal with
News In Pictures: Buhari meets British PM David Cameron in London
Nigeria’s president-elect Buhari met with British Prime Minister, David Cameron in Downing Street, central London. See more photos
Buruji Kashamu, Senator-elect wanted for US drug deal ‘arrested
LAGOS, Nigeria (AP) — Nigerian drug agents on Saturday arrested a senator-elect wanted by the United States
Wednesday, 20 May 2015
Actress Kehinde Bankole's releases beautiful new photos
I Prefer Pleasure To Duration During Sex— Stella Damasus
Apart from the different controversies that have been hung on her, Stella Damasus is an actress that is well known for her acting skills.
When it comes to interpreting her part in movie scripts, she does it to the admiration of most faithful of Nollywood.
Speaking on a radio show in the US, Stella Damasus was asked her view on which most women prefer; duration or satisfaction during s3x.
The actress did not mince words in airing her preference.
As Encomium reported, Stella said
Your comments are unbecoming of a president-elect – Group tells Buhari
A group, National Peace Building and Conflict Reconciliation Organisation (NPBCTO), has advised President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari
Artist that appeared in Jay Z's video feels completely used by him
PDP NWC resolution on the resignation of the national chairman
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at its 399th meeting today, Wednesday, May 20, 2015 received and accepted the voluntary resignation of the National Chairman of our great party Ahmadu Adamu Mu’azu.
Tuesday, 19 May 2015
Mbryo new freestyle ----Sample for me
“Rugged Records act Mbryo is working on dropping a massive song for 2015. It is the star studded remix to his song Halleluyahand he features Korede Bello, Jaywon andDammy Krane.
While you wait for that, enjoy this freestyle from him he titled Sample For Me. #SampleForMeFresstyle
Produced by Tyrone.”
download
While you wait for that, enjoy this freestyle from him he titled Sample For Me. #SampleForMeFresstyle
Produced by Tyrone.”
Irina Shayk dumped Cristiano Ronaldo after finding text messages from dozens of women on his phone
Irina Shayk dumped ex-boyfriend Cristiano Ronaldo after she
found multiple text messages on his phone from dozens of
women from across the world, some of whom he had slept with.
Some of them he even replied.
"For so long she trusted him and stuck up for him but
now she feels completely let down and betrayed." A
source told The Sun:
The source also claimed Irina, who is now dating Bradley
Cooper, received plenty messages from anonymous women
telling her they wer"She immediately confronted Cristiano about it, but he
initially denied any knowledge. After she explained to
him what she had found he eventually admitted to
messaging the girls. She couldn't believe it so
immediately got out of the house. She ended the
relationship there and then."
Omotola and daughter Meraiah become Knorr mbassadors
Knorr which is Unilever’s biggest brand has embarked on a social mission “Knorr Green food steps” a new way of adding Greens to cooking daily and the launch of the new fortified Knorr Bullion cubes.
Also at the glamorous event was the ever gorgeous Mrs Toyin Saraki of the well-being foundation, Yemi Alade, who performed the Toss, stir and crumble anthem, Chef Fregz and many more.
We’ve done things we shouldn’t have done, Jonathan says
Outgoing President Goodluck Jonathan has asked for forgiveness from Nigerians hurt directly or indirectly by his actions during his tenure as Vice- President, acting President and President.
He explained to worshippers at a farewell service organised in his honour at the Aso Villa Chapel in Abuja on Sunday, that those actions were not deliberately done.
Jonathan pointed out that there were times one would take a decision in the best interest of all but friends and associates might not understand why.
The President said, “Nothing is perfect; if you wait for perfection, you cannot achieve anything. No system is perfect. Every human system has an element of imperfection.
“So, for the eight years that I have been here as Vice-President, acting President and President, I can say that no one is perfect.
“We have done certain things that probably we shouldn’t have done, but we didn’t do them deliberately.
“So, for those that we offended, it was not deliberate; it was as a result of the exigencies of the office.
“We plead that such people should forgive us; I think we have done our best. You may do your own best and your friends and associates may misunderstand you.”
Jonathan thanked God and those who stood by him and his family in the last eight years, saying he had every reason to be thankful.
While admitting that public office holders have different roles, the President said no head of government, be it at the national or sub- regional levels, could do everything.
He however said it was normal for office holders to set and achieve targets so that their tenure would be remembered.
Jonathan recalled that when he was the governor of Bayelsa State, his target was to construct two bridges in the state annually.
But he said that that dream was cut short when he was nominated as the vice presidential candidate of the then Peoples Democratic Party’s candidate, Umaru Yar’Adua (late).
The President said although he was leaving as President and his wife as the First Lady, they would not leave members of the Aso Rock Chapel who were relentless in praying for them.
Jonathan added, “I believe some of you may even come closer and even do more meaningful things together when we leave office.
“The office is quite challenging; some of you may desire to see us but I believe that as we move forward, things will get better.
“I don’t believe that it is only in government that one can do things; outside it (government), you can do a lot.
“The richest people in the world don’t even serve in government. (Aliko) Dangote has never been in government, yet he is doing so much.
“Bill Gates too has never been in government, yet he is the richest man in the world. So outside government, a lot of things happen; It is for us to be committed and be focused.
Joyful atmosphere pervaded the chapel during the service which was the last time Jonathan and his family would be worshipping there (chapel) before May 29.
There will not be service at the chapel on May 24 because of an interdenominational service to commemorate the nation’s Democracy Day at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.
Colourfully-dressed chapel members, friends and associates of Jonathan and his family as well as top government officials turned out en masse to wish them well.
The chapel committee and the children presented gifts to Jonathan, his wife, Patience, and his mother, Eunice.
The President later led his family members to dance at the altar for a special thanksgiving to express gratitude to God for being with them in the last five years.
The President’s Chaplain, Ven. Obioma Onwuzurumba, in a short message titled, “To God be the Glory” thanked God for keeping the Jonathan family safe throughout their stay in the Presidential Villa.
Mrs. Jonathan read the first lesson of the service from Numbers 6:22-27 while the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, John Kennedy-Okpara, read the second lesson from 2 Chorinthians 13:11-14.
The service featured special presentation by the children, presentation by the chapel committee and special prayers for the nation.
A five-year-old girl, Juliet Ishola of the children church, stole the show with a memory verse taken from 1 Timothy 6: 6-7.
She got a standing ovation from the congregation when after reading the verse, she turned to Jonathan and said, “For emphasis, I will take verse 7 of I Timothy chapter 6 again which says “For we brought nothing into this world and it is certain we will not take anything away.”
Juliet went on to tell the President, “You seem to understand this verse more than all of us by your reaction to the results of the 2015 presidential election.
“God bless you sir for allowing peace to reign in the country.”
Osinbajo fails to take over chapel
However, the expectation that Jonathan would formally hand over the chapel to the Vice President-elect, Yemi Osinbajo, on Sunday did not materialise.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo was said to have handed over the worship centre to Jonathan as the Vice President since the then President-elect(Yar’Adua) was a Muslim.
The same process would have taken place on Sunday but for Osinbajo’s absence.
Onwuzurumba later confirmed to State House correspondents that the handover process was part of the programme packaged for the day.
He said it could not be done because the President-elect did not attend the service in person.
“We actually invited the President-elect for the handing over of the chapel but for one reason or the other, he was absent.
“But he was represented in the service by a regional pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. The handover will be done later.”
Pastor Emmanuel Ibitaye from the RCCG was one of the guests recognised during the service but he was not introduced as Osinbajo’s representative.
Among the prominent persons who attended the service were Peter Obi, Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, members of the National Assembly, members of the Federal Executive Council as well as heads of government agencies and parastatals.
He explained to worshippers at a farewell service organised in his honour at the Aso Villa Chapel in Abuja on Sunday, that those actions were not deliberately done.
Jonathan pointed out that there were times one would take a decision in the best interest of all but friends and associates might not understand why.
The President said, “Nothing is perfect; if you wait for perfection, you cannot achieve anything. No system is perfect. Every human system has an element of imperfection.
“So, for the eight years that I have been here as Vice-President, acting President and President, I can say that no one is perfect.
“We have done certain things that probably we shouldn’t have done, but we didn’t do them deliberately.
“So, for those that we offended, it was not deliberate; it was as a result of the exigencies of the office.
“We plead that such people should forgive us; I think we have done our best. You may do your own best and your friends and associates may misunderstand you.”
Jonathan thanked God and those who stood by him and his family in the last eight years, saying he had every reason to be thankful.
While admitting that public office holders have different roles, the President said no head of government, be it at the national or sub- regional levels, could do everything.
He however said it was normal for office holders to set and achieve targets so that their tenure would be remembered.
Jonathan recalled that when he was the governor of Bayelsa State, his target was to construct two bridges in the state annually.
But he said that that dream was cut short when he was nominated as the vice presidential candidate of the then Peoples Democratic Party’s candidate, Umaru Yar’Adua (late).
The President said although he was leaving as President and his wife as the First Lady, they would not leave members of the Aso Rock Chapel who were relentless in praying for them.
Jonathan added, “I believe some of you may even come closer and even do more meaningful things together when we leave office.
“The office is quite challenging; some of you may desire to see us but I believe that as we move forward, things will get better.
“I don’t believe that it is only in government that one can do things; outside it (government), you can do a lot.
“The richest people in the world don’t even serve in government. (Aliko) Dangote has never been in government, yet he is doing so much.
“Bill Gates too has never been in government, yet he is the richest man in the world. So outside government, a lot of things happen; It is for us to be committed and be focused.
Joyful atmosphere pervaded the chapel during the service which was the last time Jonathan and his family would be worshipping there (chapel) before May 29.
There will not be service at the chapel on May 24 because of an interdenominational service to commemorate the nation’s Democracy Day at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.
Colourfully-dressed chapel members, friends and associates of Jonathan and his family as well as top government officials turned out en masse to wish them well.
The chapel committee and the children presented gifts to Jonathan, his wife, Patience, and his mother, Eunice.
The President later led his family members to dance at the altar for a special thanksgiving to express gratitude to God for being with them in the last five years.
The President’s Chaplain, Ven. Obioma Onwuzurumba, in a short message titled, “To God be the Glory” thanked God for keeping the Jonathan family safe throughout their stay in the Presidential Villa.
Mrs. Jonathan read the first lesson of the service from Numbers 6:22-27 while the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, John Kennedy-Okpara, read the second lesson from 2 Chorinthians 13:11-14.
The service featured special presentation by the children, presentation by the chapel committee and special prayers for the nation.
A five-year-old girl, Juliet Ishola of the children church, stole the show with a memory verse taken from 1 Timothy 6: 6-7.
She got a standing ovation from the congregation when after reading the verse, she turned to Jonathan and said, “For emphasis, I will take verse 7 of I Timothy chapter 6 again which says “For we brought nothing into this world and it is certain we will not take anything away.”
Juliet went on to tell the President, “You seem to understand this verse more than all of us by your reaction to the results of the 2015 presidential election.
“God bless you sir for allowing peace to reign in the country.”
Osinbajo fails to take over chapel
However, the expectation that Jonathan would formally hand over the chapel to the Vice President-elect, Yemi Osinbajo, on Sunday did not materialise.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo was said to have handed over the worship centre to Jonathan as the Vice President since the then President-elect(Yar’Adua) was a Muslim.
The same process would have taken place on Sunday but for Osinbajo’s absence.
Onwuzurumba later confirmed to State House correspondents that the handover process was part of the programme packaged for the day.
He said it could not be done because the President-elect did not attend the service in person.
“We actually invited the President-elect for the handing over of the chapel but for one reason or the other, he was absent.
“But he was represented in the service by a regional pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. The handover will be done later.”
Pastor Emmanuel Ibitaye from the RCCG was one of the guests recognised during the service but he was not introduced as Osinbajo’s representative.
Among the prominent persons who attended the service were Peter Obi, Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, members of the National Assembly, members of the Federal Executive Council as well as heads of government agencies and parastatals.
Sampaul blog----Tony Blair to speak at APC policy forum
The All Progressives Congress is set to hold a two-day forum to unveil the policy plan of the incoming Muhammadu Buhari administration.
According to a statement by the party, a former British Prime Minister, Mr. Tony Blair, will be the keynote speaker at the dialogue where input for the actualisation of the policies of the incoming administration would be made by experts drawn from different fields and members of the public.
The policy dialogue themed, “Implementing Change: From Vision to Reality,” and organised by the Policy, Research and Strategy Directorate of the APC Presidential Campaign Council would hold in Abuja on Wednesday and Thursday.
The Deputy Head of the Directorate and a former Minister of Youth and Sports, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the President-elect Muhammadu Buhari, would declare open the dialogue which would be chaired by Vice-President-elect, Prof. Yemi Osibajo (SAN).
Abdullahi said the programme would focus on the economy, governance, job creation and security – in line with the APC manifestoes of change.
He added that some of the topics to be discussed are “Improving the national economy for shared prosperity, “Repositioning agriculture for job creation and economic prosperity,” “Developing infrastructure for national development;” “Achieving sustainable reforms on oil/gas sector” and “Reducing inequality and achieving sustainable human development.”
The statement added that others who will speak at the event are a former Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Ifueko Omogui-Okauru; a former Minister of Power, Dr. Rilwan Babalola; and a former Country Chair, Nigeria-Sao Tome and Principe Joint Development Authority, Dr. Tajudeen Umar.
Also expected to speak at the programme are the Chairman, West African Examination Council, Prof. Pai Obanya; Vice Chancellor, Federal University, Otuoke, Prof. Bolaji Aluko; a former Nigerian Permanent Representative, United Nations, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari; a former Lagos State Solicitor-General, Mr. Fola Arthur-Worrey, among others.
According to a statement by the party, a former British Prime Minister, Mr. Tony Blair, will be the keynote speaker at the dialogue where input for the actualisation of the policies of the incoming administration would be made by experts drawn from different fields and members of the public.
The policy dialogue themed, “Implementing Change: From Vision to Reality,” and organised by the Policy, Research and Strategy Directorate of the APC Presidential Campaign Council would hold in Abuja on Wednesday and Thursday.
The Deputy Head of the Directorate and a former Minister of Youth and Sports, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the President-elect Muhammadu Buhari, would declare open the dialogue which would be chaired by Vice-President-elect, Prof. Yemi Osibajo (SAN).
Abdullahi said the programme would focus on the economy, governance, job creation and security – in line with the APC manifestoes of change.
He added that some of the topics to be discussed are “Improving the national economy for shared prosperity, “Repositioning agriculture for job creation and economic prosperity,” “Developing infrastructure for national development;” “Achieving sustainable reforms on oil/gas sector” and “Reducing inequality and achieving sustainable human development.”
The statement added that others who will speak at the event are a former Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Ifueko Omogui-Okauru; a former Minister of Power, Dr. Rilwan Babalola; and a former Country Chair, Nigeria-Sao Tome and Principe Joint Development Authority, Dr. Tajudeen Umar.
Also expected to speak at the programme are the Chairman, West African Examination Council, Prof. Pai Obanya; Vice Chancellor, Federal University, Otuoke, Prof. Bolaji Aluko; a former Nigerian Permanent Representative, United Nations, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari; a former Lagos State Solicitor-General, Mr. Fola Arthur-Worrey, among others.
I’ll Concentrate On 3 Major Areas – Buhari
President-elect Muhammadu Buhari yesterday expressed his displeasure at the military’s inability to secure the life and property of its citizens.
“The military has never been so incapacitated like now. It’s a shame that the military cannot secure 14 of Nigeria’s local governments out of the 774 local governments in the country,” he said.
According to the president-elect, what is more worrisome is the fact that Nigeria’s military has to rely on South African mercenaries before it could gain recent success in the war against Boko Haram.
General Buhari, who made the above comment in Kaduna while playig host to the national executive council of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) described the development as “shameful and unacceptable.”
“My administration will concentrate on three major areas on assumption of office; that is insecurity, the economy/unemployment and corruption. We will ensure we nip insecurity in bud.
“The Nigeria Army could not do small thing, they have to bring in South African mercenaries to enable them record the recent gains in the North East,” Buhari stated.
Speaking on governance, the president-elect said his administration would make sure that every Nigerian lives within his honest earnings, adding that “a situation where people live above their earnings will not be tolerated.”
In his address, the ACF chairman, Ibrahim Ahmadu Coomassie, a former inspector-general of police, had told the president-elect that Nigerians voted for him because they believe in his integrity, transparency, accountability, honesty and commitment to the security of life and property.
Coomassie noted Nigeria had never experienced the level of decay, the collapse of moral values and the high level of corruption, crime and impoverishment of the citizenry like in the last six years.
The ACF leader said: “Security has been the major concern, especially in the North-East region which has been devastated by the insurgency caused by the Boko Haram; and the energy, which is the source of power and main driver of the economy, requires serious and urgent attention. “
The former IGP further told Buhari that Nigerians are eagerly waiting for him to solve the problems facing them and to also free them from the shackles of poverty, ignorance, corruption and insurgency.
He advised the president-elect to restrict the powers of the secretary to the government of the federation (SGF).
He said, “The current situation when SGF operates above ministers offends the laid-down principles of accountability in governance.”
APC holds forum on policy direction for new government
Ahead of the inauguration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) central government in the country, the roadmap for the policy direction of the Muhammadu Buhari –led administration would be unveiled during a two-day policy dialogue to be held in Abuja tomorrow and Thursday.
The policy dialogue, with the theme, “Implementing Change: From Vision to Reality,” is being organised by the Policy, Research and Strategy Directorate of the APC Presidential Campaign Council.
Briefing journalists in Abuja yesterday, the deputy head of the directorate and former minister of youth and sports, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, said the president-elect would declare the dialogue open while the vice-president-elect, Prof Yemi Osibajo (SAN), would chair it.
Former British prime minister, Mr Tony Blair, is the keynote speaker at the dialogue where input to the roadmap for the actualisation of the policies of the incoming administration would be made by experts drawn from different fields and members of the public.
Abdullahi identified the core areas of focus in the two-day dialogue to include the economy, governance, job creation and security in line with the APC manifesto.
According to him, topics for discussion include: Improving the National Economy for Shared Prosperity; Repositioning Agriculture for Job Creation and Economic Prosperity; Developing Infrastructure for National Development; Achieving Sustainable Reforms on Oil/Gas Sector; Reducing Inequality and Achieving Sustainable Human Development; Achieving Holistic and Sustainable Reforms in the Education Sector; Developing an Education System Relevant to Nigeria’s Developmental Aspiration, and Achieving Qualitative and Affordable Healthcare.
Others include: Achieving Diversity and Inclusion in Public Life; Exploring Sports, Tourism and Creative Industry for Job Creation; Governance and Improved Efficiency in Public Service; Tackling Corruption in Public Sector and Foreign Policy and Agenda for Change.
Some of the speakers and discussants expected at the dialogue include Ms Ifueko Omogui-Okauru, former FIRS chairperson; Dr Rilwan Babalola, former minister of power; Dr Tajudeen Umar, former country chair, Nigeria-Sao Tome and Principe Joint Development Authority; Prof Niyi Ayoola Daniels, president, International Institute for Petroleum Energy Law and Policy; Mr Tunde Ahonsi, resident representative, UNFPA, Ghana, and Major-General Ishola Williamsn (retd).
Others include : Prof Pai Obanya, WAEC chairman; Dr Ayo Teriba, CEO, Economic Associates; Prof. Bolaji Aluko, vice chancellor, Federal University, Otuoke; Prof Mohammed Tabia, Department of Islamic Law, Bayero University, Kano; General Abdulrahman Dambazzau , former Chief of Army Staff; Prof Ibrahim Gambari, former Nigerian permanent representative, United Nations; Mr Fola Arthur-Worrey, former solicitor-general, Lagos State; Ms Bolanle Onagoruwa, former director-general, BPE; Mr Wale Fapounda, of Legal Resources Consortium, and Prof Etannibi Alemika, chairman, CLEEN Foundation.
The programme will also mark the winding down of activities of the Policy, Research and Strategy Directorate of the APC Campaign Council, Abdullahi added.
“The military has never been so incapacitated like now. It’s a shame that the military cannot secure 14 of Nigeria’s local governments out of the 774 local governments in the country,” he said.
According to the president-elect, what is more worrisome is the fact that Nigeria’s military has to rely on South African mercenaries before it could gain recent success in the war against Boko Haram.
General Buhari, who made the above comment in Kaduna while playig host to the national executive council of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) described the development as “shameful and unacceptable.”
“My administration will concentrate on three major areas on assumption of office; that is insecurity, the economy/unemployment and corruption. We will ensure we nip insecurity in bud.
“The Nigeria Army could not do small thing, they have to bring in South African mercenaries to enable them record the recent gains in the North East,” Buhari stated.
Speaking on governance, the president-elect said his administration would make sure that every Nigerian lives within his honest earnings, adding that “a situation where people live above their earnings will not be tolerated.”
In his address, the ACF chairman, Ibrahim Ahmadu Coomassie, a former inspector-general of police, had told the president-elect that Nigerians voted for him because they believe in his integrity, transparency, accountability, honesty and commitment to the security of life and property.
Coomassie noted Nigeria had never experienced the level of decay, the collapse of moral values and the high level of corruption, crime and impoverishment of the citizenry like in the last six years.
The ACF leader said: “Security has been the major concern, especially in the North-East region which has been devastated by the insurgency caused by the Boko Haram; and the energy, which is the source of power and main driver of the economy, requires serious and urgent attention. “
The former IGP further told Buhari that Nigerians are eagerly waiting for him to solve the problems facing them and to also free them from the shackles of poverty, ignorance, corruption and insurgency.
He advised the president-elect to restrict the powers of the secretary to the government of the federation (SGF).
He said, “The current situation when SGF operates above ministers offends the laid-down principles of accountability in governance.”
APC holds forum on policy direction for new government
Ahead of the inauguration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) central government in the country, the roadmap for the policy direction of the Muhammadu Buhari –led administration would be unveiled during a two-day policy dialogue to be held in Abuja tomorrow and Thursday.
The policy dialogue, with the theme, “Implementing Change: From Vision to Reality,” is being organised by the Policy, Research and Strategy Directorate of the APC Presidential Campaign Council.
Briefing journalists in Abuja yesterday, the deputy head of the directorate and former minister of youth and sports, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, said the president-elect would declare the dialogue open while the vice-president-elect, Prof Yemi Osibajo (SAN), would chair it.
Former British prime minister, Mr Tony Blair, is the keynote speaker at the dialogue where input to the roadmap for the actualisation of the policies of the incoming administration would be made by experts drawn from different fields and members of the public.
Abdullahi identified the core areas of focus in the two-day dialogue to include the economy, governance, job creation and security in line with the APC manifesto.
According to him, topics for discussion include: Improving the National Economy for Shared Prosperity; Repositioning Agriculture for Job Creation and Economic Prosperity; Developing Infrastructure for National Development; Achieving Sustainable Reforms on Oil/Gas Sector; Reducing Inequality and Achieving Sustainable Human Development; Achieving Holistic and Sustainable Reforms in the Education Sector; Developing an Education System Relevant to Nigeria’s Developmental Aspiration, and Achieving Qualitative and Affordable Healthcare.
Others include: Achieving Diversity and Inclusion in Public Life; Exploring Sports, Tourism and Creative Industry for Job Creation; Governance and Improved Efficiency in Public Service; Tackling Corruption in Public Sector and Foreign Policy and Agenda for Change.
Some of the speakers and discussants expected at the dialogue include Ms Ifueko Omogui-Okauru, former FIRS chairperson; Dr Rilwan Babalola, former minister of power; Dr Tajudeen Umar, former country chair, Nigeria-Sao Tome and Principe Joint Development Authority; Prof Niyi Ayoola Daniels, president, International Institute for Petroleum Energy Law and Policy; Mr Tunde Ahonsi, resident representative, UNFPA, Ghana, and Major-General Ishola Williamsn (retd).
Others include : Prof Pai Obanya, WAEC chairman; Dr Ayo Teriba, CEO, Economic Associates; Prof. Bolaji Aluko, vice chancellor, Federal University, Otuoke; Prof Mohammed Tabia, Department of Islamic Law, Bayero University, Kano; General Abdulrahman Dambazzau , former Chief of Army Staff; Prof Ibrahim Gambari, former Nigerian permanent representative, United Nations; Mr Fola Arthur-Worrey, former solicitor-general, Lagos State; Ms Bolanle Onagoruwa, former director-general, BPE; Mr Wale Fapounda, of Legal Resources Consortium, and Prof Etannibi Alemika, chairman, CLEEN Foundation.
The programme will also mark the winding down of activities of the Policy, Research and Strategy Directorate of the APC Campaign Council, Abdullahi added.
APC unveils Buhari policy roadmaps
A two-day conference where the policy direction of the incoming government of the General Mohamadu Buhari would be unveiled is due in Abuja on Wednesday and Thursday, All a Progress Congress, APC said on Monday.
Themed “Implementing Change: From Vision to Reality”, the dialogue is a brainchild of the Policy, Research and Strategy Directorate of the APC Presidential Campaign Council.
The event would mark the winding up of the Directorate as the inauguration of the new government is almost a week a way now.
A statement by the Deputy Head of the Directorate and former Minister of Youth and Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, said the President-Elect Mohammadu Buhari is expected to declare while the Vice President-elect, Prof Yemi Osibajo, would chair it.
Also, former British Prime Minister, Mr Tony Blair would be the Keynote Speaker at the dialogue many other technocrats drawn from various fields of human endeavors are expected to deliver papers in the realization of the policy roadmap.
According to the deputy Head, the core areas of focus in the two-day dialogue included the Economy, governance, job creation and Security in line with the APC manifestoes for change.
He added that topics for discussion include: “Improving the National Economy for Shared Prosperity; “Repositioning Agriculture for Job Creation and Economic Prosperity”; “Developing Infrastructure for National Development”; “Achieving Sustainable Reforms on Oil/Gas Sector”; “Reducing Inequality and Achieving Sustainable Human Development”; “Achieving Holistic and Sustainable Reforms in the Education Sector”; “Developing and Education System Relevant to Nigeria’s Developmental Aspiration”; “Achieving Qualitative and Affordable Healthcare”
Others include: “Achieving Diversity and Inclusion in Public Life”; “Exploring Sports, Tourism and Creative Industry for Job Creation”; “Governance and Improved Efficiency in Public Service”; “Tackling Corruption in Public Sector” and “Foreign Policy and Agenda for Change”
Some of the Speakers and Discussants expected at the dialogue include Ms Ifueko Omogui-Okauru, former Chairperson of the FIRS; Dr Rilwan Babalola, former Minister of Power; Dr Tajudeen Umar, former Country Chair, Nigeria –Sao Tome and Principe Joint Development Authority; Prof Niyi Ayoola Daniels, President International Institute for Petroleum Energy Law and Policy; Mr Tunde Ahonsi, Resident Representative UNFPA, Ghana; Major-General Ishola Williamsn (rtd).
Others include : Prof Pai Obanya, Chairman WAEC; Dr Ayo Teriba, CEO Economic Associates; Prof. Bolaji Aluko, Vice Chancellor Federal University, Otuoke; Prof Mohammed Tabia of the Department of Islamic Law, Bayero University, Kano; General Abdulrahman Dambazzau , former Chief of Army Staff; Prof Ibrahim Gambari, former Nigerian Permanent Representative, United Nations; Mr Fola Arthur- Worrey, former Solicitor-general, Lagos State; Ms Bolanle Onagoruwa, former Director-general BPE; Mr wale Fapounda, of Legal Resources Consortium; and Prof Etannibi Alemika, Chairman CLEEN Foundation.
Themed “Implementing Change: From Vision to Reality”, the dialogue is a brainchild of the Policy, Research and Strategy Directorate of the APC Presidential Campaign Council.
The event would mark the winding up of the Directorate as the inauguration of the new government is almost a week a way now.
A statement by the Deputy Head of the Directorate and former Minister of Youth and Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, said the President-Elect Mohammadu Buhari is expected to declare while the Vice President-elect, Prof Yemi Osibajo, would chair it.
Also, former British Prime Minister, Mr Tony Blair would be the Keynote Speaker at the dialogue many other technocrats drawn from various fields of human endeavors are expected to deliver papers in the realization of the policy roadmap.
According to the deputy Head, the core areas of focus in the two-day dialogue included the Economy, governance, job creation and Security in line with the APC manifestoes for change.
He added that topics for discussion include: “Improving the National Economy for Shared Prosperity; “Repositioning Agriculture for Job Creation and Economic Prosperity”; “Developing Infrastructure for National Development”; “Achieving Sustainable Reforms on Oil/Gas Sector”; “Reducing Inequality and Achieving Sustainable Human Development”; “Achieving Holistic and Sustainable Reforms in the Education Sector”; “Developing and Education System Relevant to Nigeria’s Developmental Aspiration”; “Achieving Qualitative and Affordable Healthcare”
Others include: “Achieving Diversity and Inclusion in Public Life”; “Exploring Sports, Tourism and Creative Industry for Job Creation”; “Governance and Improved Efficiency in Public Service”; “Tackling Corruption in Public Sector” and “Foreign Policy and Agenda for Change”
Some of the Speakers and Discussants expected at the dialogue include Ms Ifueko Omogui-Okauru, former Chairperson of the FIRS; Dr Rilwan Babalola, former Minister of Power; Dr Tajudeen Umar, former Country Chair, Nigeria –Sao Tome and Principe Joint Development Authority; Prof Niyi Ayoola Daniels, President International Institute for Petroleum Energy Law and Policy; Mr Tunde Ahonsi, Resident Representative UNFPA, Ghana; Major-General Ishola Williamsn (rtd).
Others include : Prof Pai Obanya, Chairman WAEC; Dr Ayo Teriba, CEO Economic Associates; Prof. Bolaji Aluko, Vice Chancellor Federal University, Otuoke; Prof Mohammed Tabia of the Department of Islamic Law, Bayero University, Kano; General Abdulrahman Dambazzau , former Chief of Army Staff; Prof Ibrahim Gambari, former Nigerian Permanent Representative, United Nations; Mr Fola Arthur- Worrey, former Solicitor-general, Lagos State; Ms Bolanle Onagoruwa, former Director-general BPE; Mr wale Fapounda, of Legal Resources Consortium; and Prof Etannibi Alemika, Chairman CLEEN Foundation.
Monday, 18 May 2015
Photos from Nicki Minaj's performance at the 2015 Billboard Awards
Billboard Music Awards which held at MGM Grand Garden
Arena on May 17 in Las Vegas.
Xenophobia: South Africa repatriates 5,645 immigrants
xenophobic attacks in late April, the government said
yesterday. A Minister in the Presidency, Jeff Radebe, who said
this in a statement, added that the foreigners chose to leave
South Africa voluntarily.
Malawians made up the bulk of the foreigners, numbering
3,506, followed by Zimbabweans (1,440) Mozambicans (682),
while Tanzanians had (17). Mr. Radebe said the repatriation
process started soon after the latest spate of xenophobic
violence ended in April.
"The Department of Social Development continues to work
closely with other relevant departments, as well as civil society
organisations to provide support to displaced foreign
nationals,” Mr. Radebe said. The official also said over 1,000
foreigners received trauma counseling.
According to the statement, 10 women with children under 12
months of which three had just given birth were flown to their
respective countries on their insistence. Mr. Radebe further
said the department would continue to do its work to ensure
that the underlying socio-economic issues that gave rise to
tensions between South Africans and foreign nationals were
dealt with.
He also defended the current Operation Fiela (meaning
“sweep’’ in Sesotho language) launched after the end of the
xenophobia attacks. He said the operation was meant to
address the security challenges in a structured and
coordinated manner.
(NAN)
N/Assembly management asks lawmakers to vacate offices today
The National Assembly bureaucracy has asked members of the House of Representatives to pack all their personal belongings out of their offices latest Monday, May 18 (today), with just 17 days to the end of their tenure.
Findings by The PUNCH on Sunday showed that an internal memo from the management conveyed the directive to the 360 outgoing lawmakers.
Senior legislative aides and other non-civil service members of staff in the lawmakers’ offices reportedly received a similar memo.
“They started receiving the memo on Wednesday last week, specifically asking them to move their personal effects out of the offices by May 18 (today).
“Many of them actually started complying almost immediately, particularly members who are not coming back to be part of the 8th Assembly.
“I have seen a couple of lawmakers’ aides moving personal property out of the offices since the memo came in,” a National Assembly source informed The PUNCH in Abuja on Sunday.
More than 233 of the current members will be out of the House by June 5, though the memo was addressed to both returning and non-returning ones.
One official, who did not want to be named, claimed that the directive was “procedural” and meant to prepare the offices for re-allocation in the weeks ahead.
The official explained, “We have to prepare the offices because there is a lot of work ahead to be done.
“We are welcoming a new House. Most of the offices will be re-allocated. The name tags will change. Some ranking members will have to change offices.
“The same thing will apply to the sitting arrangements in the chambers. If we don’t start work now, we will not meet up with the schedule before the inauguration of the 8th Assembly.”
The official added that, “with or without memo,” it was expected that members would start moving their belongings out of the offices since the tenure was over.
When contacted, the Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Mr. Zakari Mohammed, confirmed knowledge of the memo, but he dismissed it as “nothing serious.”
He said, “That one (memo) is nothing serious. I think it has to do with some renovations or repairs that they have to do in some of the offices.
“It is just to say, ‘give some space for the repairs’, a normal thing that happens.”
Findings by The PUNCH on Sunday showed that an internal memo from the management conveyed the directive to the 360 outgoing lawmakers.
Senior legislative aides and other non-civil service members of staff in the lawmakers’ offices reportedly received a similar memo.
“They started receiving the memo on Wednesday last week, specifically asking them to move their personal effects out of the offices by May 18 (today).
“Many of them actually started complying almost immediately, particularly members who are not coming back to be part of the 8th Assembly.
“I have seen a couple of lawmakers’ aides moving personal property out of the offices since the memo came in,” a National Assembly source informed The PUNCH in Abuja on Sunday.
More than 233 of the current members will be out of the House by June 5, though the memo was addressed to both returning and non-returning ones.
One official, who did not want to be named, claimed that the directive was “procedural” and meant to prepare the offices for re-allocation in the weeks ahead.
The official explained, “We have to prepare the offices because there is a lot of work ahead to be done.
“We are welcoming a new House. Most of the offices will be re-allocated. The name tags will change. Some ranking members will have to change offices.
“The same thing will apply to the sitting arrangements in the chambers. If we don’t start work now, we will not meet up with the schedule before the inauguration of the 8th Assembly.”
The official added that, “with or without memo,” it was expected that members would start moving their belongings out of the offices since the tenure was over.
When contacted, the Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Mr. Zakari Mohammed, confirmed knowledge of the memo, but he dismissed it as “nothing serious.”
He said, “That one (memo) is nothing serious. I think it has to do with some renovations or repairs that they have to do in some of the offices.
“It is just to say, ‘give some space for the repairs’, a normal thing that happens.”
President Jonathan Begs Nigerians For Forgiveness
President Goodluck Jonathan has appealed to his fellow Nigerian compatriots to forgive him for all his transgressions. He also pleaded for their understanding.
Jonathan spoke today at the Aso Villa Chapel, where a valedictory service was held for him, to mark the end of his five year reign in Nigeria.
Jonathan who noted that no system including his administration is perfect, urged Nigerians to forgive him in any way he has erred.
He said since nobody was perfect, there was no way he would not have done some things that some people would found annoying, saying he did not do such things deliberately.
He observed that there are times one would take a decision in the best interest of all but even friends would misunderstand the situation.
Jonathan spoke today at the Aso Villa Chapel, where a valedictory service was held for him, to mark the end of his five year reign in Nigeria.
Jonathan who noted that no system including his administration is perfect, urged Nigerians to forgive him in any way he has erred.
He said since nobody was perfect, there was no way he would not have done some things that some people would found annoying, saying he did not do such things deliberately.
He observed that there are times one would take a decision in the best interest of all but even friends would misunderstand the situation.
We’ve done things we shouldn’t have done, Jonathan says
Outgoing President Goodluck Jonathan has asked for forgiveness from Nigerians hurt directly or indirectly by his actions during his tenure as Vice- President, acting President and President.
He explained to worshippers at a farewell service organised in his honour at the Aso Villa Chapel in Abuja on Sunday, that those actions were not deliberately done.
Jonathan pointed out that there were times one would take a decision in the best interest of all but friends and associates might not understand why.
The President said, “Nothing is perfect; if you wait for perfection, you cannot achieve anything. No system is perfect. Every human system has an element of imperfection.
“So, for the eight years that I have been here as Vice-President, acting President and President, I can say that no one is perfect.
“We have done certain things that probably we shouldn’t have done, but we didn’t do them deliberately.
“So, for those that we offended, it was not deliberate; it was as a result of the exigencies of the office.
“We plead that such people should forgive us; I think we have done our best. You may do your own best and your friends and associates may misunderstand you.”
Jonathan thanked God and those who stood by him and his family in the last eight years, saying he had every reason to be thankful.
While admitting that public office holders have different roles, the President said no head of government, be it at the national or sub- regional levels, could do everything.
He however said it was normal for office holders to set and achieve targets so that their tenure would be remembered.
Jonathan recalled that when he was the governor of Bayelsa State, his target was to construct two bridges in the state annually.
But he said that that dream was cut short when he was nominated as the vice presidential candidate of the then Peoples Democratic Party’s candidate, Umaru Yar’Adua (late).
The President said although he was leaving as President and his wife as the First Lady, they would not leave members of the Aso Rock Chapel who were relentless in praying for them.
Jonathan added, “I believe some of you may even come closer and even do more meaningful things together when we leave office.
“The office is quite challenging; some of you may desire to see us but I believe that as we move forward, things will get better.
“I don’t believe that it is only in government that one can do things; outside it (government), you can do a lot.
“The richest people in the world don’t even serve in government. (Aliko) Dangote has never been in government, yet he is doing so much.
“Bill Gates too has never been in government, yet he is the richest man in the world. So outside government, a lot of things happen; It is for us to be committed and be focused.
Joyful atmosphere pervaded the chapel during the service which was the last time Jonathan and his family would be worshipping there (chapel) before May 29.
There will not be service at the chapel on May 24 because of an interdenominational service to commemorate the nation’s Democracy Day at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.
Colourfully-dressed chapel members, friends and associates of Jonathan and his family as well as top government officials turned out en masse to wish them well.
The chapel committee and the children presented gifts to Jonathan, his wife, Patience, and his mother, Eunice.
The President later led his family members to dance at the altar for a special thanksgiving to express gratitude to God for being with them in the last five years.
The President’s Chaplain, Ven. Obioma Onwuzurumba, in a short message titled, “To God be the Glory” thanked God for keeping the Jonathan family safe throughout their stay in the Presidential Villa.
Mrs. Jonathan read the first lesson of the service from Numbers 6:22-27 while the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, John Kennedy-Okpara, read the second lesson from 2 Chorinthians 13:11-14.
The service featured special presentation by the children, presentation by the chapel committee and special prayers for the nation.
A five-year-old girl, Juliet Ishola of the children church, stole the show with a memory verse taken from 1 Timothy 6: 6-7.
She got a standing ovation from the congregation when after reading the verse, she turned to Jonathan and said, “For emphasis, I will take verse 7 of I Timothy chapter 6 again which says “For we brought nothing into this world and it is certain we will not take anything away.”
Juliet went on to tell the President, “You seem to understand this verse more than all of us by your reaction to the results of the 2015 presidential election.
“God bless you sir for allowing peace to reign in the country.”
Osinbajo fails to take over chapel
However, the expectation that Jonathan would formally hand over the chapel to the Vice President-elect, Yemi Osinbajo, on Sunday did not materialise.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo was said to have handed over the worship centre to Jonathan as the Vice President since the then President-elect(Yar’Adua) was a Muslim.
The same process would have taken place on Sunday but for Osinbajo’s absence.
Onwuzurumba later confirmed to State House correspondents that the handover process was part of the programme packaged for the day.
He said it could not be done because the President-elect did not attend the service in person.
“We actually invited the President-elect for the handing over of the chapel but for one reason or the other, he was absent.
“But he was represented in the service by a regional pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. The handover will be done later.”
Pastor Emmanuel Ibitaye from the RCCG was one of the guests recognised during the service but he was not introduced as Osinbajo’s representative.
Among the prominent persons who attended the service were Peter Obi, Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, members of the National Assembly, members of the Federal Executive Council as well as heads of government agencies and parastatals.
He explained to worshippers at a farewell service organised in his honour at the Aso Villa Chapel in Abuja on Sunday, that those actions were not deliberately done.
Jonathan pointed out that there were times one would take a decision in the best interest of all but friends and associates might not understand why.
The President said, “Nothing is perfect; if you wait for perfection, you cannot achieve anything. No system is perfect. Every human system has an element of imperfection.
“So, for the eight years that I have been here as Vice-President, acting President and President, I can say that no one is perfect.
“We have done certain things that probably we shouldn’t have done, but we didn’t do them deliberately.
“So, for those that we offended, it was not deliberate; it was as a result of the exigencies of the office.
“We plead that such people should forgive us; I think we have done our best. You may do your own best and your friends and associates may misunderstand you.”
Jonathan thanked God and those who stood by him and his family in the last eight years, saying he had every reason to be thankful.
While admitting that public office holders have different roles, the President said no head of government, be it at the national or sub- regional levels, could do everything.
He however said it was normal for office holders to set and achieve targets so that their tenure would be remembered.
Jonathan recalled that when he was the governor of Bayelsa State, his target was to construct two bridges in the state annually.
But he said that that dream was cut short when he was nominated as the vice presidential candidate of the then Peoples Democratic Party’s candidate, Umaru Yar’Adua (late).
The President said although he was leaving as President and his wife as the First Lady, they would not leave members of the Aso Rock Chapel who were relentless in praying for them.
Jonathan added, “I believe some of you may even come closer and even do more meaningful things together when we leave office.
“The office is quite challenging; some of you may desire to see us but I believe that as we move forward, things will get better.
“I don’t believe that it is only in government that one can do things; outside it (government), you can do a lot.
“The richest people in the world don’t even serve in government. (Aliko) Dangote has never been in government, yet he is doing so much.
“Bill Gates too has never been in government, yet he is the richest man in the world. So outside government, a lot of things happen; It is for us to be committed and be focused.
Joyful atmosphere pervaded the chapel during the service which was the last time Jonathan and his family would be worshipping there (chapel) before May 29.
There will not be service at the chapel on May 24 because of an interdenominational service to commemorate the nation’s Democracy Day at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.
Colourfully-dressed chapel members, friends and associates of Jonathan and his family as well as top government officials turned out en masse to wish them well.
The chapel committee and the children presented gifts to Jonathan, his wife, Patience, and his mother, Eunice.
The President later led his family members to dance at the altar for a special thanksgiving to express gratitude to God for being with them in the last five years.
The President’s Chaplain, Ven. Obioma Onwuzurumba, in a short message titled, “To God be the Glory” thanked God for keeping the Jonathan family safe throughout their stay in the Presidential Villa.
Mrs. Jonathan read the first lesson of the service from Numbers 6:22-27 while the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, John Kennedy-Okpara, read the second lesson from 2 Chorinthians 13:11-14.
The service featured special presentation by the children, presentation by the chapel committee and special prayers for the nation.
A five-year-old girl, Juliet Ishola of the children church, stole the show with a memory verse taken from 1 Timothy 6: 6-7.
She got a standing ovation from the congregation when after reading the verse, she turned to Jonathan and said, “For emphasis, I will take verse 7 of I Timothy chapter 6 again which says “For we brought nothing into this world and it is certain we will not take anything away.”
Juliet went on to tell the President, “You seem to understand this verse more than all of us by your reaction to the results of the 2015 presidential election.
“God bless you sir for allowing peace to reign in the country.”
Osinbajo fails to take over chapel
However, the expectation that Jonathan would formally hand over the chapel to the Vice President-elect, Yemi Osinbajo, on Sunday did not materialise.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo was said to have handed over the worship centre to Jonathan as the Vice President since the then President-elect(Yar’Adua) was a Muslim.
The same process would have taken place on Sunday but for Osinbajo’s absence.
Onwuzurumba later confirmed to State House correspondents that the handover process was part of the programme packaged for the day.
He said it could not be done because the President-elect did not attend the service in person.
“We actually invited the President-elect for the handing over of the chapel but for one reason or the other, he was absent.
“But he was represented in the service by a regional pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. The handover will be done later.”
Pastor Emmanuel Ibitaye from the RCCG was one of the guests recognised during the service but he was not introduced as Osinbajo’s representative.
Among the prominent persons who attended the service were Peter Obi, Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, members of the National Assembly, members of the Federal Executive Council as well as heads of government agencies and parastatals.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)