Uncategorized
Buratai Reappears with Research Centre
Buratai Reappears with Research Centre
Against the background of increasing loss of faith in the Nigerian project, former Chief of Army Staff and Nigeria’s current Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, General Tukur Buratai, initiated the Tukur Buratai Research Centre, a cutting-edge leadership think-tank to aid the troubled national development journey. Louis Achi examines the underlying vision
This is a good time to recall former French president, Giscard D’Estaing’s counsel to statesmen and world leaders: “There can be no response to history without effort.” D’Estaing’s sage warning was clearly inspired by the environment of the human crisis that defined his era. He was born during the First World War and fought in the second bloody global conflagration.
Today, the stakes are extremely high, and Nigerians are mindful that failure to achieve democratic stability, through a fair, transparent, inclusive governance process and very importantly, an untainted leadership transition process may imperil the country’s future as a coherent state.
Moreover, being Africa’s demographic and natural resources centre of gravity, Nigeria ought to lead the journey of transformative change on the continent. She ought to provide the leadership to raise Africa to her next level. But then charity must begin at home because at this period in human history, it surely would be sheer folly to tread a different path.
And that is the challenge before both the current Muhammadu Buhari presidency and successive administrations. This is also at the core of the leadership think-tank project initiated by the former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Nigeria’s current Ambassador to the Republic of Benin.
Conceivably, in order to respond to the tumultuous history he has found himself in and had actually played a crucial role in as counselled by the ex-French President D’Estaing, the former COAS recently initiated the establishment of a cutting-edge leadership research centre at Gora in Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria.
He stated that the Centre would collaborate with the Nasarawa State University, Keffi, in the fields of strategic studies, peace and conflict studies, environment and leadership for development. Not one to beat about the bush, the ground breaking and fundraiser for Tukur Buratai Research Centre (TBRC) held at Gora in Nasarawa State in late December last year.
When THISDAY directly asked the brawny ex-General, now an Ambassador, why he opted for this path, he provided an insight that showed his lesser known side and spoke to a hidden passion about the progressive transformation of the Nigerian state.
Ambassador Buratai said: “My simple philosophy about life is to continue to live a life of value by improving on the system that we have. As someone from the military, I reckoned the best way for me and my associates to add value to our society and make our country better and stronger is through a think-tank like the Tukur Buratai Research Center (TBRC).’’
In addition, the soldier-statesman said that Nigeria has the potential for greatness but there were insufficient capabilities to transfer those potential into socio-economic benefits for the people. According to him, inadequate research and development implementation in Nigeria create a massive void in the nation’s progress.
His words: “When properly focused research and training institutes are established, innovation and development become a natural progressive activity that benefits the nation’s life. In other words, Nigeria gains the ability to develop positively as a result of enhanced study and training.
“Corruption, insecurity due to terrorism and banditry, inadequate infrastructure, issues in governance and an inept educational system are all systemic flaws. With every amount of commitment made to research and training, as well as a strong national orientation one may be confident that we, as a people and a nation, are on the right track.
“I would like to utilize this TBRC platform to emphasize that now is the moment for us to turn within and devise home-grown solutions to our unique difficulties.”
Further, according to him, the “TBRC was his way of contributing to national development and giving back to society through a well thought-out approach that would have a long lasting impact on the country. As a result of the myriad of socio-economic and political challenges, it may be reasonable to argue that Nigeria can, to a large degree, resolve her development issues through research.”
Perhaps not surprisingly, the unique initiative drew support from several stakeholders who are also concerned about the worrisome drift of the national journey. According to the Vice Chancellor, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Prof. Suleiman Mohammed, the institute and TBRC had identified their research and development partnership based primarily on security and strategic studies.
In his words: “The vision and mission of the Buratai Centre aligns with the university’s policy and strategy for impacting the society. The centre’s motto which is to promote research for leadership and development is a strong statement about the ultimate value of research to impact humanity positively. We envisage that the centre will be a hub for cross fertilization of ideas on security, peace, conflict, leadership and development issues.”
Soft-spoken Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State who performed the ground breaking donated N50 million to the Centre. Over N160 million was realised at the occasion with the highest donation of N100 million coming from the BUA Group of companies.
The emerging consensus is that Ambassador Buratai’s well-considered leadership project is certainly not coming too soon. Today, ethnic nationalism, a crucial component of the myriad challenges, has reared its head in the country with different political nuances – from the overt to the subtle. This has a history. But perhaps most importantly and to the credit of Nigerians, the country remains one entity despite powerful forces that have challenged its growth and severely tested its resilience.
These have undeniably sown the seeds of loss of faith in the Nigerian state. Former US President Bill Clinton captured something of this troubling truth at the Leon H. Sullivan Summit, held in Abuja in July 2006. His words: “There is no single tragedy in Africa more than robbing people of their dreams. The new challenge in Africa today is building a systematic capacity which will enable the people to live to make their own progress and save their own future. If you look at the miracle economies of Asia, it’s not only hard work but the opportunity to be part of a system that will reward your intelligence and hard work.”
Further prodded by THISDAY, the Ambassador made it clear that a strong and innovative think-tank would go a long way to boosting a nation’s institutional development and democracy, noting the Centre will fill the vacuum in the area of research and policy development. He then revealed the hidden historian and philosopher in him by enlisting specific examples of the place of innovative think-tanks in human development history.
Hear him: “Let me make it categorically clear to us that one of the factors that helped the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries is strong and innovative think-tanks. As far back as 1831, the Duke of Wellington set up the Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies with the aim of helping policymakers navigate through complex policy problems. Then the London Fabian Society which was established in 1884, home to Sydney and Beatrice Webbs, who later founded the London School of Economics.”
He accurately recalled that Lionel Curtis of Oxford University spearheaded the establishment of a think-tank to explore international problems and advocate policy solutions.
According to the ambassador, “In 1919, scholars like Lionel Curtis of the Oxford University spearheaded the establishment of a think-tank to explore international problems and advocate policy solutions. After that, we saw the emergence of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in 1916, which in 1927, merged with two other institutions to form the widely acclaimed Brookings Institution. I believe that there exists a gap in our polity that TBRC as a think-tank can fill through research and policy development especially in the areas of security and defence, peace, conflict management, climate change, leadership and development.
“We need development in every sector of our national life, and this is something that should not be left for the government alone to do. As I have said in so many fora, there can be no real development without security and peace, and in the same vein, there must be economic opportunities, equity and justice for security and peace to exist which in turn serves as the foundation or pillars of development.”
Ambassador Buratai’s intervention through his think-tank must, of course, bear a human face – a scenario he has left pretty few in doubt about. It is only through this pathway that Nigeria’s current and subsequent leadership can give meaning to the four essential human freedoms espoused by that great American President – Franklin Roosevelt – whose country has supplied Nigeria with the democratic model she is operating currently.
Uncategorized
Celebrating The Women Behind The Music : The Members Of Elite Women Musicians Club Of Lagos
Celebrating The Women Behind The Music : The Members Of Elite Women Musicians Club Of Lagos
In the pulsating heart of Lagos, the Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos
stands as a beacon of unity and empowerment for female artists. This dynamic association, renowned for its diversity in musical genres, prides itself on bringing together talented women from all walks of musical life. Today, we celebrate its esteemed members, who number twenty-nine strong, each contributing uniquely to the vibrant tapestry of the Club.
Leading The Charge :
At the forefront of the Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos Club is Alhaja Queen Isimot Abake Abiola PQ1st (Omo Opeki), the President. Her leadership is a source of inspiration for many, guiding the Club with a vision of inclusivity and excellence. Supporting her is Alhaja Queen Halimot Ayinla Omowura, the Vice President, whose dedication ensures the smooth operation and growth of the association.
Alhaja Badirat Adunni Olaniyan (Just Like That) serves as the Treasurer, managing the financial health of the Club with precision. The Social Secretary, Alhaja Aminat Babalola Balogun (Omotayebi, Iya Kekere Eko), brings vibrancy and connectivity, fostering a sense of community among the members. Asiwaju Yeye Tosin Eniba (Fuji Queen), the Secretary, ensures that the administrative duties are handled efficiently, supporting the organizational backbone of the Club.
Valued Members :
The Club’s strength lies in its diverse membership, each woman a luminary in her own right. The following are the distinguished members of the Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos :
– Afonja Gbajoba
– Bisi Ewa Ogo Jesu
– Alhaja Jelilat Dupytie
– Ejire Akewi Oba
– Alhaja Aminat Itojuobi
– Alh. Fatimo Oseni Salawa Onigbongbo
– Alh. Tawakalitu Alagbada Tokotaya to nko Fuji
– Aishat Irepo Obi
– Olaleye Rahemot Arike (Akomolesin Agbaye)
– Alh. Dasola Abeke
– Ewebiyi Iya Oriki
– Ameerat Oninure
– Alh. Azeezat Otibiya
– Alh. Rukayat Bashirimi
– Alh. Mujidat Damilola
– Alh. Fatima Aljafaria, an Elder whose wisdom and experience enrich the Club.
– Alh. Taibat Omo Tayenfe
– Queen Muheenat Ijaodola
– Sakirat Yeye Oge
– Alh. Mariam Akiki Akanbi
– Queen Abebi Ayala
– Aweni Adepeju (Aweni Fuji)
– Fatimo Ajoke Cinderella
– Alh. Hafsat Sideeq, another Elder whose guidance is deeply valued.
A Legacy of Excellence :
The Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos is more than just an association; it is a legacy of excellence, a network of powerful voices that harmonize to uplift and inspire. Each member, from the executives to the distinguished members, plays a crucial role in shaping the cultural and musical landscape of Lagos and beyond. Their combined efforts create a symphony of collaboration and mutual support, ensuring that the future of female musicians in Nigeria remains bright and promising.
As we celebrate these remarkable women, we also look forward to the new heights the Club will achieve under their leadership and unity. Their commitment to their craft and each other stands as a testament to the incredible power of music and the unwavering strength of women.
Sustain Tempo of High Revenue With Compliance, CGC Tells Comptroller Olomu
… As Apapa Command Honours Outstanding Stakeholders
By Ifeoma Ikem
Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR has commended the Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, fsi for the command’s outstanding revenue collection of over N2.2tr and urged him to sustain the tempo.
CGC said this in Apapa on Friday at the command’s end of the year party and award ceremony also harped on the need for compliance and synergies as necessary strategies to greater productivity at the port. According to him, compliance is a competitive advantage.
He was represented by Deputy Comptroller General Caroline Niagwan, DCG Tariff and Trade, Adeniyi congratulated the Customs Area Controller and all the officers and men of Apapa Area Command for the milestone achieved in revenue collection to the tune of N2.2tr and still counting which has earned the command multiple accolades
“It is with immense pleasure that I stand before you today to celebrate a shared commitment to compliance and excellence in trade. This award ceremony is a testament to your dedication to ethical business practices, adherence to regulations, and unwavering support for the principles that drive Nigeria’s economic growth.
“Compliance is not merely a requirement; it is a competitive advantage. It fosters transparency, reduces operational risks, and strengthens the trust between businesses and regulatory authorities. It also positions compliant stakeholders to enjoy streamlined processes, faster clearance times, and access to the numerous benefits that come with being recognized as trusted trade partners.
“As a Service, we understand that sustaining compliance can sometimes require capacity building, especially as global trade evolves.
To this end, the Service is committed to providing the necessary training, technical assistance, and partnerships that will empower you with the knowledge and tools to maintain this high standard.
“Our goal is to ensure that every stakeholder remains competitive,vinnovative, and aligned with global best practices.
By working together, we can unlock even greater opportunities for growth. Compliant stakeholders not only contribute to national revenue but also drive economic development, attract foreign investments, and enhance Nigeria’s position in international trade” Adeniyi said
In his welcome speech, Comptroller Olomu expressed appreciation to the CGC and the customs management team for always providing the direction and inspiration to the command in it’s drive to meet government’s expectations .
He described the end of year party as many things rolled up in one as it strengthens the stakeholders bond as a community of government and private sector collaborators working together for the betterment of Nigeria;
it’s also to celebrate together as the year 2024 ends and honour those whose outstanding performances contributed in shaping the command’s achievements in 2024.
Comptroller Olomu said despite the challenges of low trade volume, the command is able to achieve it’s target which is a reflection of officers commitment and dedication to duty
He added that in line with the policy thrust of the CGC, the command utilised it’s relationship with stakeholders to achieve it’s goal this year.
According to him improving on stakeholder engagement has become an operational template the Comptroller General of Customs has impressed on the officers and expressed joy to announce that it has proven to be a masterstroke towards enhanced compliance.
Comptroller Olomu said “Compliance is no doubt the bedrock of all customs achievements in areas of revenue collection, anti smuggling and legitimate trade facilitation. Our approach to regurlarly engage our sister government agencies has raised our degree of intelligence sharing towards a common national interest.
“Let me use this period to thank the NPA, DSS, NDLEA, NAQS,Port Health, Police, Immigration and other sister government agencies for their consistent collaboration in 2024. They are indeed an integral part of the command’s success story in 2024. I urge them to stay on board let’s do it again in 2025.
“With our port users, we maintained regularly enlightenment meetings, faster trade dispute resolution mechanism and consistent appraisal of feedbacks to keep improving on our responsibilities.
“There have been positive fallouts of our regular interface with our stakeholders. This is evident in our collection of N2..2tr revenue and still counting, zeroing in on the minority that attempt smuggling by curbing their activities with seizures. We are fostering inclusivity and this will continue in 2025
“We have ensured no container , import or export consignment goes through our control without due diligence of proper examination. This has been the foundation of our impeccable enforcement drive.
“We are honouring some of our officers and stakeholders for their outstanding performances in the year 2024 . I want to urge the awardees to see this as a call for more commitment to surpass their best outputs. There is no end to improvement
“This should also be a challenge to those who didn’t make the award list this time, I urge them to keep improving with a promise that their inputs shall not go unnoticed for due recognition” he concluded
Among those recognised with various awards are APM Terminals, Sifax Group, ENL Consortium, Dangote, Talod Ocean Airfreight and Princess Chi Ezeh the CEO of Munah Sylva Nigeria Limited
The command also recognised serving and retired officers for their contributions to it’s overall successes in 2024.
- Advancing Gender Equality and Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) Response in Malawi December 23, 2024
- An mpox survivor’s tale of hope December 23, 2024
- United Nations (UN) Emergency Fund allocates $6 million to support refugees fleeing Sudan in Egypt December 23, 2024
- Africa’s critical mineral resources, a boon for intra-African trade and regional integration December 23, 2024
- African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) honours Ugandan troops for contributions to Somalia’s stability December 23, 2024
- Agreement in principle reached on Agreement between Japan and the Republic of Zambia for the Promotion and Protection of Investment December 23, 2024
- Siraj Finance PJSC signs an agreement with Azentio for iMAL core and digital financial services solution subscription optimization December 23, 2024
- European Commission provides €1 billion in macro-financial assistance to Egypt December 23, 2024
- Visit of Foreign Secretary Shri Vikram Misri to Mauritius (December 20-22, 2024) December 23, 2024
- Catholic Bishops Conference of Ethiopia: Pastoral message for Advent, December 2024 December 22, 2024
- Advancing Gender Equality and Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) Response in Malawi December 23, 2024
- An mpox survivor’s tale of hope December 23, 2024
- United Nations (UN) Emergency Fund allocates $6 million to support refugees fleeing Sudan in Egypt December 23, 2024
- Africa’s critical mineral resources, a boon for intra-African trade and regional integration December 23, 2024
- African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) honours Ugandan troops for contributions to Somalia’s stability December 23, 2024
- Agreement in principle reached on Agreement between Japan and the Republic of Zambia for the Promotion and Protection of Investment December 23, 2024
- Siraj Finance PJSC signs an agreement with Azentio for iMAL core and digital financial services solution subscription optimization December 23, 2024
-
Entertainment6 months agoAkanke Amororo: The New Yoruba Movie Everyone Is Talking About + Why People Are Rushing To YouTube To See It
-
Politics7 months agoGov Fubara And One Year of His Signature in Rivers By Nath Odili
-
Business7 months agoFIRSTBANK WINS 2024 BEST SME BANK IN NIGERIA AND BEST SME BANK IN AFRICA BY ASIAN BANKER AWARDS
-
Business5 months agoPROFILE: JESSICA AMARACHI OKU BY CHINEDU NSOFOR