Business

‘Coalition for Nigeria movement might become a political party’ – Obasanjo says as he registers

Published

7 years ago

February 1, 2018

STATEMENT BY H.E OLUSEGUN OBASANJO ON THE OCCASION OF HIS REGISTRATION FOR COALITION FOR NIGERIAN MOVEMENT

Ladies and Gentlemen and members of the Fourth Estate of the Realm, I welcome you to this simple but important ceremony of my registering as a member of the Coalition for Nigeria Movement and I thank you for being here.

Last week, I issued a statement which I did not do lightly or frivolously but out of deep concern for the situation of our country. I gave an expose on some aspects of our situations as I have observed them. I also took liberty to offer advice politely knowing fully well that my advice could be heeded or may be ignored.

However, heeded or not, I strongly believe that Nigeria cannot continue with business as usual. So, I proffered a way out or a way forward.

If the instruments we have used so far in our nation-building and governance since independence have not served us well, it is imperative that we should rethink and retool. It was Einstein who stated that it would amount to height of folly for anybody or any group to continue to do things in the same way and expect different results.

Coalition for Nigeria Movement is proposed as the new direction to mobilise our population for unity, cooperation, development, rule of law, employment, law and order, justice, integration, peace, security, stability, welfare and well-being. In these regards, special attention and space must be given to youths and women, who in most cases, have been victims and underlings.

I am particularly happy that yesterday, men and women (of all ages) of like minds joined hands to launch Coalition for Nigeria Movement (CNM). Among many other things that CNM will do is to raise standards generally but particularly standards of political leadership and governance.

Like all countries, Nigeria has many challenges. That, by itself, is not what we should worry about. What should matter is how, when and with what instruments we address or fail to address these challenges or create more problems.

Let me emphasise important areas, programme, priorities, or processes for improved attention. To start with, we seem to have taken nation-building for granted. Nation-building must be given continued attention to give every citizen a feeling of belonging and a stake in his or her country. For instance, the federal character principle, as espoused in our constitution, was to guide the leadership to search for competent holders of major offices to be distributed within the entire nation and avoid the concentration in a few ethnic hands or geographical places as we currently have in the leadership of our security apparatus. To avoid such non-integrative situation, we have the National Assembly and the Federal Character Commission, both institutions which must raise alarm or call for correction of actions by the executive that violates the spirit of our constitution. In like manner, the spate of violence, criminality, organised crime, insurgency and terrorism have not received sufficient proactive ameliorative responses through transformational leadership – a determined leadership that brings cohesion and wholesomeness to the polity. Nobody and no group should feel excluded in his or her own country. Inclusion and popular participation must be visibly pursued in terms of politics, the economy and our overall social life.

I am happy to be a member of the Coalition for Nigeria Movement. The movement is a pressure point towards good governance. This is the commencement for our popular and grassroots association. Of course, the membership will be free to collectively decide on whether CNM becomes a political party. If the Movement decides to transform itself and go into partisan politics, I will cease to be a member. And as a member for now, I accept all the conditions attached to membership of the Coalition.

We must promote the CNM and mobilise membership all over the country including membership from the Diaspora.

This is an opportunity for women and men, especially youths who have hitherto been feeling marginalised and helpless to go all out and bring friends and families into the CNM fold.

The CNM will remain a popular socio-economic Movement open to all Nigerians who believe in the greatness of Nigeria and are ready to contribute to it.

Some people have started worrying about the problem of personalities, in which some, in other efforts allocate positions to themselves. This Movement is not about personality or personalities; but about platform and system. Our system so far has not given us what we must have. For the first time we are building a platform from bottom-up. The Movement’s base is the grassroots and the people – all the people. When the platform is formed and the new system is put in place, the Movement may decide to sponsor/support candidates or transform itself into a political machine for that purpose.

A socio-economic popular Movement needs to be the new vehicle to give hope to the youths, dignity and encouragement to women and security, confidence, and a promising future to all Nigerians. It must work to bring about a new democratic and efficient Nigeria. The Movement must speak up boldly and bluntly about the truth but politely in accordance with African culture. The Movement will also act collectively with political awareness, social responsibility, sustained and sustainable economic development and progress. Timidity and cowardice must not be part of its make-up or culture and neither must there be indifference. He who keeps quiet, inactive and indifferent in the face of bad act is an accomplice to that act. Self-interest, self-centredness and selfishness must be put aside. National interest must be paramount. The Movement will teach what it believes and practice what it teaches.

It is necessary to make it clear that this movement does not regard itself as a third force. It sees itself as a popular movement that can accommodate all Nigerians irrespective of their political interest or affiliations and will propel Nigeria forward. Nigeria belongs to all Nigerians to be made right and the Coalition with others of the same view and like minds will leave no stone unturned to actualise God-given potentials of our country. The Movement will spearhead process, programme, policies and priorities to make Nigeria a great country playing its expected roles within West Africa, Africa and the world.

Nigerian youth will be emboldened, empowered, have employment, and play meaningful and responsible roles in the leadership and governance of the country in all ramifications. Nigerian women will have dignity, responsibility and equal consideration with men in the affairs of Nigeria.

The Movement is a means to an end. The end is Nigeria, unshackled, united, dynamic, strong, secure, cohesive, stable, and prosperous at home and respected outside, and as result, able to play decisive roles assertively within the comity of nations. A Nigeria of hope, aspiration and assurances which belongs to all with no sacred cow nor sacrificial lamb is what we want. My Nigeria, your Nigeria and our Nigeria with enchanting present and secure and glorious future.

Join the Movement to build a new Nigeria that will be in the hands of God.

Business

Empowering Tomorrow’s Tourism Leaders: Batsumi Travel’s Mission to Bridge the Skills Gap

Published

19 hours ago

January 13, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Empowering Tomorrow’s Tourism Leaders: Batsumi Travel’s Mission to Bridge the Skills Gap

Batsumi Travel Township Tourism Development (BTTTD) Creates Opportunities for Youth in Tourism
In a country where youth unemployment and skills shortages remain pressing challenges, Batsumi Travel Township Tourism Development (BTTTD) is stepping up to make a difference. This innovative initiative aims to bridge the gap between theoretical education and real-world industry experience for high school students studying tourism in South Africa.

Recognizing that many young learners in township schools lack access to practical exposure and industry connections, BTTTD provides in-depth knowledge and hands-on training to better prepare students for further studies and employment. Through educational tours, site inspections, and interactive workshops, students gain valuable insights into various sectors of the travel and tourism industry, one of the country’s fastest-growing sectors.

Creating Pathways to Employment and Entrepreneurship

Beyond education, BTTTD is committed to empowering previously disadvantaged youth by offering internships and mentorship programs. Through strategic partnerships with tourism industry suppliers, the initiative ensures that students engage with real-world professionals, gaining a deeper understanding of career paths in hospitality, travel management, tour guiding, and more.

Financial support is also a key component, as Batsumi Travel works with industry partners to provide learnerships, internships, and employment opportunities for graduates of the program. This not only benefits the learners but also uplifts their families and communities, contributing to broader economic growth.

Building a Recognized Industry Leader
Batsumi Travel envisions becoming a major role player within the travel industry, offering world-class services in both inbound and outbound travel, concierge services, flight reservations, and visa assistance. With a commitment to quality, transparency, and customer satisfaction, the company ensures that every client experience—whether for business or leisure—is seamless and stress-free.

A Call for Collaboration and Support

To sustain and expand this impactful program, BTTTD seeks to strengthen partnerships with tourism stakeholders, calling on suppliers and sponsors to contribute towards the future of South Africa’s tourism workforce. With the right support, this initiative has the potential to shape a new generation of tourism professionals, ensuring the industry continues to thrive.

For more information on how to partner with Batsumi Travel or to book travel services, visit www.batsumitravel.co.za or contact [email protected] | +27 64 534 3213.

Batsumi Travel: Turning Dreams into Destinations—For Travelers and Future Tourism Leaders Alike.

Business

Lisa Sebogodi: The Trailblazer Revolutionizing South African Tourism

Published

2 days ago

January 12, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Resilient, Innovative, Unstoppable – Lisa Sebogodi’s Leadership at Batsumi Travel

Lisa Sebogodi, the visionary founder and CEO of Batsumi Travel, has significantly influenced South Africa’s tourism landscape. Established in 2010, Batsumi Travel emerged from Lisa’s ambition to create employment opportunities and establish a lasting legacy for her family.

Under her leadership, the company has become a beacon of excellence in the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry. Lisa’s dedication to client satisfaction was recognized when she was honored as the “Most Client-Focused Woman-Owned Travel Agency 2023 – Gauteng” by Acquisition International.

The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges to the global tourism sector, and Batsumi Travel was no exception. Lisa’s resilience and innovative strategies were instrumental in reviving the company post-pandemic. Her commitment to excellence and adaptability ensured that Batsumi Travel not only survived but thrived in the aftermath of the crisis.

Batsumi Travel offers a comprehensive range of corporate and leisure travel management services, catering to diverse client needs. The company’s dedication to personalized service and attention to detail has garnered a loyal clientele, both locally and internationally.

Lisa’s impact extends beyond her business achievements. She serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women, demonstrating that with vision and determination, one can overcome challenges and make a significant impact in their industry.

Patronizing Batsumi Travel means supporting a company that values client satisfaction, innovation, and resilience. Under Lisa Sebogodi’s leadership, clients are assured of exceptional service tailored to their unique travel needs, contributing to the growth and sustainability of the tourism industry in South Africa and beyond.

For more insights into Lisa Sebogodi’s journey and the ethos of Batsumi Travel, you can watch her interview on the Small Business Show:

celebrity radar - gossips

Abdul Samad Rabiu: The Game Changer Transforming Lives Through BUA Group

Published

4 days ago

January 10, 2025

Sahara Weekly

The Master Builder: Abdul Samad Rabiu and the BUA Legacy”

By Femi Oyewale

Arguably, Abdul Samad Rabiu, one of Africa’s leading industrialists and philanthropists, has emerged as a transformative force in Nigeria and beyond. Through the BUA Group, Rabiu has not only revolutionized industries but has also dedicated himself to improving lives and fostering economic growth. This article explores how Abdul Samad Rabiu and his BUA Group are reshaping industries and communities, becoming a beacon of hope and progress.

The Rise of BUA Group: A Visionary’s Journey

Founded in 1988, the BUA Group began as a modest trading company, importing and distributing commodities such as rice, edible oils, and flour. Under Rabiu’s visionary leadership, the company evolved into a diversified conglomerate with operations spanning cement, sugar, real estate, steel, ports, and terminals.

Today, BUA Group stands as one of Africa’s largest and most influential industrial enterprises, directly contributing to the continent’s economic development. With a focus on self-sufficiency and reducing import dependency, Rabiu’s initiatives have helped strengthen Nigeria’s position as a manufacturing hub.

Transforming Industries: BUA’s Impact

1. Cement Industry: Building Nations

BUA Cement has become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s construction and infrastructure sectors. The company’s state-of-the-art plants, strategically located in key regions, have significantly boosted local production capacity, reducing reliance on imports. This industrial expansion has led to job creation and infrastructure development, directly impacting millions of lives.

2. Sugar Refining: Sweetening Local Economies

Through its sugar plantations and refineries, BUA Group has contributed to Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in sugar production. The company’s backward integration program, which includes developing vast sugarcane plantations, has provided jobs for thousands of Nigerians while reducing the country’s sugar import bill.

3. Agriculture: Feeding the Future

Rabiu’s focus on agriculture goes beyond sugar. BUA’s investments in rice milling and other agro-processing industries are addressing food security challenges and empowering smallholder farmers across Nigeria. By leveraging technology and innovation, the company is helping modernize Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.

4. Energy and Infrastructure: Powering Progress

In a nation grappling with energy deficits, BUA Group has invested in power generation to support its operations and contribute to the national grid. The company’s infrastructure projects, including ports and terminals, are enhancing trade efficiency and positioning Nigeria as a key player in global commerce.

The Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative: Philanthropy at Scale

Rabiu’s commitment to transforming lives extends beyond business. In 2021, he launched the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) with an initial pledge of $100 million annually for health, education, and social development projects across Africa.

1. Health Sector Interventions

ASR Africa has funded the construction of hospitals, medical research centers, and healthcare facilities in underserved communities. These initiatives aim to improve access to quality healthcare and address systemic challenges in the sector.

2. Education and Capacity Building

Education remains a cornerstone of Rabiu’s philanthropic efforts. From building schools and universities to providing scholarships, ASR Africa is empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators.

3. Social Development

Through strategic partnerships with governments and NGOs, ASR Africa addresses pressing social issues, including poverty alleviation and community development. These projects are designed to create lasting change and promote inclusive growth.

A Legacy of Impact and Inspiration

Abdul Samad Rabiu’s journey from a young entrepreneur to one of Africa’s most influential figures is a testament to his vision, determination, and compassion. Through the BUA Group, he has demonstrated how businesses can drive economic growth while prioritizing social impact.

As he continues to expand his influence, Rabiu’s focus remains steadfast: transforming industries, empowering communities, and creating opportunities for millions. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and a reminder of the power of purposeful leadership.

Abdul Samad Rabiu and the BUA Group represent a transformative force in Africa’s economic and social landscape. By prioritizing sustainability, innovation, and philanthropy, Rabiu is not just changing industries but also improving lives. His work underscores the importance of aligning business success with societal progress, making him a true game changer in every sense of the word.