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Ahmed Kuru and his adversaries By James Imoru

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Ahmed Kuru and his adversaries By James Imoru

Ahmed Kuru and his adversaries

By James Imoru

 

 

 

BEING a beacon of integrity in an abundantly blessed but criminally managed, consciously monetized society like Nigeria can be daunting. Ask the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) boss, Ahmed Lawan Kuru. Confronting the hawks who wrecked the banking sector with unpaid loans and thus forced the creation of the corporation in the first place is not just a daunting task; it is an assignment strewn with perils, including lawfare and media wars by profiteers from the people’s pain, the friends and enablers of criminals. For one thing, the obligors of AMCON are in the commanding heights of political power, and if the nation has learned anything in the past few years when the corporation and these enemies of state have been locked in a battle, it is the fact that criminals do not like exposure.

 

 

 

 

 

In 2017, Kuru was garlanded as the African Best Rated CEO of The Year at the second edition of the National Development Forum (NDF)/award ceremony organized by African Development Magazine. Explaining the criteria for the selection of Kuru at the event, the media house stated that the AMCON boss was adjudged winner by the panel of judges after a careful evaluation of his difficult assignment at AMCON and the fact that he went about it in a way that supported the anti-graft war in the country. As it noted, it was a herculean task chasing dangerous debtors who had borrowed money from taxpayers to fund their lavish lifestyle while deliberately refusing to pay back and thus contributed to crippling the Nigerian economy. The same point was canvassed by the management of the New Telegraph when they bestowed upon Kuru the maiden edition of the “Public Integrity Award 2021.” The AMCON boss, they averred, was selected from a large poll of public servants heading different Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of the government across Nigeria because of his commitment, dedication, uprightness, and patriotic zeal that he has gone about the recovery drive from AMCON obligors who owed Nigeria a current outstanding debt of over N4.4trillion.

 

 

Ahmed Kuru and his adversaries

By James Imoru

 

 

As a popular Nigeria musician quipped, “it is divinity that abhors falsehood, the world wants no forthrightness.” And yet someone must stand up to be counted; someone must dare the status quo and rescue the nation from ruin. That is the kind of job Dora Akunyili had, and it is the kind of job Ahmed Kuru has. It is no wonder, then, that hiding under pseudonyms (fake names) and purveying the most blatant of falsehoods, certain anti-Kuru elements have gone on an overdrive in the media in recent times, cooking up falsehood against the high-flying, phenomenally cerebral, passionately committed and resource-savvy AMCON boss. Combining innuendos with conjecture, and vile abuse with sheer envy, they are doing their level best to robe the AMCON boss in the garb of a villain and get him out of the way. They are movers and shakers within the Nigerian landscape and they are not content with the multiple frivolous cases they filed in court in a desperate attempt to get away with crimes for which in saner climes they would presently be rotting in jail. The tactic is unmistakable: take Kuru’s job away from him by casting aspersions on his integrity, forcing the president to remove him. This is, to say the least, a devious tactic, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not be moved by it. He is much too sophisticated to be swayed by charlatans masquerading as social crusaders. Convicts of financial crimes and the brains behind failed banks fazed by the public spirit with which Kuru works can only rage using media hounds; they must not be allowed to turn back the hands of the clock.

The fact that a good number of AMCON obligors who have no business occupying public office given their role in wrecking Nigeria’s financial system are now occupying top government offices should be a source of concern. But the fact that they are using public funds to sponsor all manners of attacks against AMCON is even more egregious. They are using public funds to protect their crime and take out those who dared to challenge them. They detest AMCON and its debt-recovery efforts with passion. And their pain was compounded by the fact that following his stellar performance in the first five years at the helms of affairs of AMCON, President Muhammadu Buhari reappointed Kuru, a career banker with professional experience spanning nearly four decades across investment banking, risk management, operations, human capital management and marketing, for another term of office in 2021.

As Managing Director/CEO of the former Enterprise Bank Limited, Kuru oversaw phenomenal growth. Within the first two years of his leadership, the bank made over N11billion profit, solidifying the path of profitability. It is a fact that it was AMCON that saved Arik Airlines, the largest local carrier, and Aero Contractors, Nigeria’s oldest carrier from shutting down operations, while making other strategic investments in a number of other local carriers, all of which have helped to keep the aviation sector afloat. The fact that AMCON has recovered about N1.8trillion from inception till date cannot be discountenanced, nor can the fact that it acquired about 12,000 Non-Performing Loans (NPLs) worth N3.7 trillion from 22 banks and injected N2.2 trillion as financial accommodation to 10 banks in order to prevent systemic failure.

In August last year, speaking in London, United Kingdom, at a training for Federal High Court judges from Nigeria, the AMCON boss indicated that the corporation’s recoveries in cash and in sale of assets had been made possible with the help of the judiciary. This was because “granting of Exparte Orders as well as orders to attach traced assets have compelled most recalcitrant obligors of AMCON to come to the negotiation table.” The recalcitrant obligors, he said, had mastered the act of clinging to the technicalities rather than settling their established obligations. But the Kuru-led AMCON had never shirked its responsibilities. AMCON made a profit of N23.97 billion in 2020, which increased to N34.65 billion in 2021. In the year 2022, the corporation made N58.59 billion profit. It has consistently delivered on its recovery mandate since its inception. The figure was over N70 billion for 2023. Given the feelers from the corporation, things are bound to get even better under Kuru’s leadership in the days to come.

Imoru , Civil Right Activist, contributes this piece through [email protected]

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Video Proof How Apostle Suleman Prophesied Donald Trump’s Victory As US President Four Months Ago

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Video Proof How Apostle Suleman Prophesied Donald Trump’s Victory As US President Four Months Ago

 

“When you hate people so much, you push them into acceptance,” this was the prophecy released about the winner of the United States presidential election, Mr. Donald Trump, by the servant of God and general overseer of the Omega Fire Ministries (OFM), Apostle Johnson Suleman, at a Sunday service in his Auchi, Edo State State ministry headquarters on July 14, 2024.

The direct prophecy was delivered at the time a series of attacks considered politically motivated were launched on the person and politics of Mr Trump allegedly by the opposition camp.

 

In the sermon video that went viral in July, Apostle Suleman declared specifically that “America has just got the winner of the election.” Further, the ‘Restoration Apostle’ warns, “He (Trump) is not a perfect man because everybody has their challenges. But when they shot at him, I told somebody that by this action, the man was winning. I said people who were hitherto on the fence have already endorsed him.”

 

The servant of God warns people to ‘stop wasting your emotions, never dislike who you don’t know one on one. Nobody in this life can determine the outcome of your destiny…”

See video;

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World leaders salute Trump, vows to end illegal immigration

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World leaders salute Trump, vows to end illegal immigration

World leaders salute Trump, vows to end illegal immigration

 

Donald Trump has emerged as the 47th President of the United States, after winning over 292 electoral college votes in the 2024 election.

Trump won the election having crossed the 270 score required to clinch the White House.

As of the time of filing this report, Vice President Kamala Harris had polled 224 votes in the electoral college system, according to the Associated Press.

On the heels of the results, President Joe Biden called President-elect Trump to congratulate him on his election victory and to invite him to the White House to discuss the transition.

The White House said staff would coordinate a date “in the near future.”

Biden plans to address the nation on the election results, which will have sharp implications for his legacy on Thursday.

Biden also spoke with Vice President Harris to congratulate her on her campaign, the AP reports.

 

Addressing a massive crowd of supporters in West Palm Beach, Florida, on Wednesday, Trump vowed to deliver a “strong, safe, and richer America,” while outlining his key priorities and echoing his promise to restore the country’s former glory.

“We are going to secure our borders immediately. No illegal immigrants will be allowed to enter this country,” he declared to cheering supporters, according to NDTV.

On international relations, Trump declared his intention to end the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas-Lebanon conflict, stating, “I would not start a war; I will end one.”

A prominent theme of Trump’s speech was his intent to reduce federal income taxes, which he framed as essential to bolstering the economy.

“We will cut taxes and bring prosperity to American families,” he affirmed, stressing financial relief for working and middle-class Americans.

Trump also spoke glowingly of a vaccine sceptic and environmental lawyer, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who he said would play a key role in his administration.

Amid chants of “Bobby, Bobby,” Trump expressed his support for Kennedy, promising, “He wants to do some things, and we are going to let him go to it.” Trump humorously added, “But Bobby, leave the oil to me.”

 

Referencing recent assassination attempts against him during the campaign, Trump credited his survival to a divine purpose.

“Many people have told me that God spared my life for a reason, and that reason was to save our country,” he said.

In his vision for the future, Trump pledged a “golden age” for America, declaring, “America’s future will be bigger, better, bolder, richer, safer, and stronger than it has ever been before.”

In a nod to Elon Musk, Trump praised the tech mogul as a “new star” and stressed the importance of protecting “super geniuses” like Musk for the country’s future innovation.

As Trump prepares to assume office on January 20, 2025, he promised, “I will not rest until we have delivered a strong, safe, and prosperous America that our children deserve and that you deserve.”

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu and other world leaders have extended their congratulations to the US President-elect.

Tinubu said he looked forward to strengthening the ties between Nigeria and the US amid the complex challenges and opportunities of the contemporary world.

 

His congratulatory message was conveyed through a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday.

The statement is titled ‘President Tinubu congratulates President-elect Trump.’

Tinubu said, “Together, we can foster economic cooperation, promote peace, and address global challenges that affect our citizens.”

According to him, Trump’s victory reflects the trust and confidence the American people have placed in his leadership.

He also congratulated the US electorate on their commitment to democracy.

“President Tinubu believes that, given President Trump’s experience as the 45th President of the United States from 2017 to 2021, his return to the White House as the 47th president will usher in an era of earnest, beneficial, and reciprocal economic and development partnerships between Africa and the United States,” Onanuga noted.

Tinubu also acknowledged the United States’ influence, power, and position in determining the trend and course of global events, trusting that President Trump would bring the world closer to peace and prosperity.

 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warmly welcomed Trump’s win, calling it “history’s greatest comeback” and expressing optimism about a new chapter in the US-Israel alliance.

Netanyahu described Trump’s return as a chance for a renewed commitment to their close strategic partnership, especially on regional security matters.

China’s reaction was cautiously optimistic, calling for “peaceful coexistence” in future US-China relations.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning expressed hope for mutual respect and collaboration, indicating China’s interest in maintaining a stable relationship while preparing for Trump’s typically assertive stance, particularly on trade and economic issues.

French President Emmanuel Macron extended a diplomatic message, affirming his readiness to work with Trump “with respect and ambition.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated Trump, emphasising hopes for “just peace” in Ukraine and expressing appreciation for Trump’s “peace through strength” philosophy.

 

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte welcomed Trump’s win, expressing confidence in his ability to strengthen the alliance.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent warm congratulations to Trump, referring to him as a “friend” and expressing optimism for renewed US-India collaboration.

President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi of Egypt phoned Trump to congratulate him on his election, according to a statement from the Egyptian leader’s office.

El-Sissi has affirmed: “Egypt looks forward to completing the joint work with President Trump during his new term … in a way that benefits the Egyptian and American peoples and achieves stability, peace and development in the Middle East.”

Meanwhile, Harris will deliver her concession speech at Howard University, her alma mater, in her first public address since election results indicated a victory for Trump.

Her speech will formally acknowledge the election outcome and her defeat in the closely watched race.

The Republican Party has regained control of the US Senate, marking their first majority in the chamber in four years, according to the Associated Press.

This shift gives the Republican Party a foothold in Washington, positioning them to influence key decisions, including the confirmation of the next president’s cabinet and any Supreme Court nominees should a vacancy arise.

 

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NNPP’s Ajadi congratulates President Trump

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NNPP’s Ajadi congratulates President Trump

NNPP’s Ajadi congratulates President Trump

 

 

Ogun State’s 2023 New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) governorship candidate and South West chieftain, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, extended warm congratulations to newly re-elected U.S. President Donald Trump, expressing confidence that his leadership will bring lasting stability to the world.

 

NNPP’s Ajadi congratulates President Trump

Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, a staunch advocate for good governance, had previously predicted the victory of Donald Trump in the U.S. elections. Known for his sharp political insights, Ambassador Ajadi has consistently voiced opinions on global and national political trends, often foreseeing outcomes with remarkable accuracy. His earlier prediction on Trump’s success highlights his keen understanding of political dynamics and his commitment to staying informed on international affairs.

Americans turned out in record numbers to vote in a closely watched presidential race between Donald Trump and his challenger, Kamala Harris. The election, marked by intense campaigning, captivated global attention, with critical issues like economic recovery, healthcare, and foreign policy taking center stage. Trump, representing the Republican Party, campaigned on a platform of economic revival and strong conservative values, while Harris, of the Democratic Party, promised progressive reform focused on social justice and environmental concerns.

Both candidates offered opposing visions for America’s future, creating a polarized atmosphere across the nation. Observers noted this election could redefine the United States’ role on the world stage, as well as its approach to pressing domestic issues. As votes were counted, Trump emerged victorious, securing another term in the White House and prompting reactions worldwide, from celebration to contemplation of its implications for America’s alliances and domestic policies.

Speaking to journalists early Wednesday morning at his office in Ibafo, Ogun State, Ajadi hailed Trump’s victory as a “divine intervention,” stating that it brings blessings beyond American borders. “President Trump’s win is a powerful message of hope, not just for Americans but for people all around the world,” Ajadi declared. He highlighted Trump’s role as a stabilizing force amid current global tensions, especially among nations where conflicts have sparked fears of a potential world war.

Ajadi expressed his optimism, predicting that Trump’s leadership could help avert the “looming world war” by promoting diplomacy and de-escalating tensions among powerful countries. “We believe Trump has the resolve and influence to bring major players to the negotiating table and promote peaceful resolutions to conflicts,” Ajadi remarked. “His re-election represents an opportunity for constructive dialogue that will ease global anxieties and strengthen efforts for international peace.”

He went on to describe Trump’s diplomatic approach as potentially beneficial for emerging markets and African nations. “This victory symbolizes a global movement toward fairness and mutual respect in international relations,” Ajadi said, expressing hope that Trump’s presidency would foster partnerships with nations like Nigeria, advancing development through collaboration on trade, technology, and security.

Ajadi also emphasized Trump’s commitment to national sovereignty and self-reliance, viewing these principles as valuable lessons for African countries. “Trump encourages nations to stand strong and use their resources wisely,” he said, “and this message can inspire African leaders to pursue sustainable, self-reliant growth.”

The NNPP leader went further with a hopeful vision for the future, adding, “President Trump’s victory is not merely for America; it’s a victory for all who cherish peace, stability, and cooperation across borders. Under his leadership, we anticipate a renewed era of global stability, where nations can work together toward progress and mutual understanding.”

Ajadi reiterated his confidence in Trump’s capacity to unify nations, especially in times of division. “This is a time for healing, and we trust that Trump will rise to the challenge,” he added.

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