news
Full Text of President Buhari’s Democracy speech
Published
7 years agoon
At 7am today, President Muhammadu Buhari addressed Nigerians on the occasion of the country’s 19th consecutive democracy day celebration.
He also used the opportunity to give account of his administration’s performance in the last three years…
Read the full speech below..
My Dear Nigerians!
Today marks the 19th year of our nascent democracy and the 3rd Anniversary of this administration. I am thankful to Almighty God for bringing us thus far. This administration came at a time that Nigerians needed Change, the Change we promised and the Change we continue to deliver. We have faced a lot of challenges on this journey and Nigerians have stood by us in achieving the three cardinal points of this administration namely; Security, Corruption and the Economy.
2. The commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day is a celebration of freedom, a salute to the resilience and determination of Nigerians and a recommitment by Government to keep its promise to lead Nigeria into a new era of justice and prosperity.
3. Public safety and security remains the primary duty of this Government. Before this Administration came into being 3 years ago, Boko Haram held large areas of land spanning several Local Governments in the North East.
4. Today, the capacity of the insurgents has been degraded leading to the re-establishment of authority of government and the release of captives including, happily, 106 Chibok and 104 Dapchi girls, and over 16,000 other persons held by the Boko Haram.
5. In order to minimize the impact of the insurgency on Internally Displaced Persons, Government has established secure IDP Camps and has improved the mechanism for the distribution of basic aid, foods and essential commodities using various strategies in collaboration with local and international Organizations.
6. Efforts are in process for resettlement of IDPs in their home communities by providing schools, hospitals, clinics, water and sanitation to facilitate a quick return to economic activities. Government is similarly implementing de-radicalization and rehabilitation programmes to facilitate sustainable peace and development.
7. The unfortunate incidences of kidnappings, herdsmen and farmers clashes in several communities which have led to high number of fatalities and loss of properties across the country is being addressed and the identified culprits and their sponsors shall be made to face the full wrath of the law. All the three tiers of Government are presently engaged with communities and religious organizations to restore peaceful co-existence among Nigerians.
8. I want to commend members of the Multinational Joint Task Force drawn from Niger, Benin, Chad, Cameroon and our own country in collaboration with the International Community who are assisting in the fight against insurgency in the North East. I also commend the gallantry of members of our Armed Forces and other security agencies that have continued to provide security for lives and properties across the country. State and Local traditional authorities are helping with much needed intelligence in this fight against insurgency.
9. This administration is pained over the grievous loss of lives and properties occasioned by the carnage of insurgency and other forms of criminality in the country. I wish to assure Nigerians that we will not rest until all criminal elements and their sponsors are brought to justice. Government is boosting the capacity of our security agencies through recruitment of more personnel, training and procurement of modern equipment, enhancement of intelligence gathering as well as boosting their morale in the face of daunting challenges.
10. The Niger Delta Region has enjoyed relative peace through social inclusiveness and cooperation of the Elders and the good people of the region. Government is committed to implementing the comprehensive peace, security and development plan for the region. The environmental clean-up of the region which commenced with the launch in Bodo, Ogoni in June, 2016 is progressing satisfactorily. Furthermore farming assets are being revived and investors in cocoa and palm oil plantations are showing serious interest.
11. The second primary object of this Administration is to fight corruption headlong. Like I have always said, if we don’t kill corruption, corruption will destroy the country. Three years into this Administration, Nigerians and the international community have begun to applaud our policies and determination to fight corruption. We are more than ever before determined to win this war, however hard the road is. I therefore appeal to all well-meaning Nigerians to continue to support us in this fight.
12. Various policy measures already put in place to stem the tide of corrupt practices are yielding remarkable results. Some of these key reform policies include:
The Treasury Single Account (TSA) has realized Billions of Naira being saved from maintenance fee payable to banks. N200 Billion has also been saved from elimination of ghost workers in public service.The Whistle-Blowing Policy has helped to recover over N500 Billion;
The Presidential Initiative on Continuous Audit set up with a mandate to validate controls, assess risks, prune personnel costs, ensure compliance with Public Financial Management reforms has helped to identify and remove over 52,000 ghost workers from the Federal Government MDAs Payroll;
The Voluntary Asset and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS) aimed at expanding tax education and awareness has offered the opportunity for tax defaulters to regularise their status in order to enjoy the amnesty of forgiveness on overdue interest, penalties and the assurance of non-prosecution or subject to tax investigations.
The Sovereign Wealth Fund project portfolio has been expanded with an injection of US$650 million so as to strengthen its investment in local infrastructure, power, health, re-construction of Abuja-Kano road, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, East West Road (Section V) and the Mambilla Hydro-electric Power project as well as the construction of the 2nd Niger Bridge.
13. The fight against corruption through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has resulted in recoveries of Billions of Naira, as well as forfeiture of various forms of assets. This alongside other efforts has improved Nigeria’s international image and regional cooperation.14. We have retained the services of one of the world’s leading assets tracing firms to investigate and trace assets globally. This is in addition to the exploitation of provisions of existing Treaties, Conventions as well as Bilateral Agreements with Multilateral bodies and Nations. Nigeria has also signed Mutual Legal Assistance Agreements to ensure that there is no hiding place for fugitives.
15. This Administration has therefore focused on revamping the ailing economy it inherited in 2015. In 2016, Government executed an expansionary budget and developed the Strategic Implementation Plan. For the first time, 30% of the budget was earmarked for capital expenditure which represents an upward review when compared with the 2015 budget. The SIP was followed by the development of a comprehensive medium term plan – the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan 2017 – 2020.
16. The broad strategic objectives of the ERGP were to; Restore and sustain economic growth; Build a globally competitive economy; and Invest in our people. The implementation of the ERGP has started yielding results. The National Bureau of Statistics reports that the economy grew by 1.95% in 1st quarter 2018, which is a good performance when viewed against -0.91 in 1st quarter 2017 and -0.67% in 1st quarter 2016 respectively.
17. Our foreign reserve has improved significantly to 47.5 billion USD as of May, 2018 as against 29.6 billion USD in 2015. The inflationary rate has consistently declined every month since January, 2017.
18. Recently, Government conducted Focus Labs in three key sectors of the Economy namely, Agriculture & Transport, Manufacturing and Processing as well as Power and Gas. These have yielded significant prospects for investments and Job creation to the tune of US$ 22.5 billion with a potential for creating more than 500,000 jobs by 2020. These investment generation initiatives are expected to increase capital inflows in the form of foreign direct investment. There is a high prospect that the cumulative investments from this first phase of the Labs will hit US$39.2 billion by 2025.
19. Under agriculture, Nigeria continues to pursue a strategic food security programme built around self-sufficiency and minimization of import dependency. As a result, rice importation from other countries has been cut down by 90% which has a direct impact on foreign reserves.
20. The Social Investment Programmes (SIP) has been created as a means to graduating our citizens from poverty through capacity building, investment and direct support. The major strategic objective is to restore livelihood, economic opportunities and sustenance for the poor across the country. The SIP programmes and projects include:
Home Grown School Feeding Programme – About 8.2 million pupils are currently being fed from 24 States of the Federation with over 75,000 Catering Staff engaged under the programme.The Conditional Cash Transfer has so far recorded over 297,000 caregivers and being trained by 2,495 Community Facilitators in 21 states. Less privileged Nigerians are now being paid N5,000 monthly stipend in 9 pilot States of Bauchi, Borno, Cross River, Ekiti, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, Osun and Oyo. Eventually the scheme will cover all the 36 states of the federation including the FCT.
Under the Government Enterprise Empowerment Programme – About 264,269 loans had been disbursed to 4,822 societies in the 36 States and FCT, while another 370,635 are awaiting release of funds.
N-Power Job creation Scheme – is targeted at providing jobs for unemployed young graduates and has so far recruited 200,000 youths while the next batch of 300,000 have been selected, verified and would soon be deployed across the 36 States and the FCT. Furthermore, 20,000 non-graduate volunteers have also been selected to kick off the N-Build programme in collaboration with the National Automotive Design and Development Council and the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria.
21. In the area of power generation, Nigerians from all parts of the country continue to report better power supply and less use of generators. This underscores the effectiveness of the methodical plan to deliver incremental and uninterrupted power supply to our homes, markets, offices and factories.
22. The country achieved 5, 222.3 MW representing the highest peak of power generated onto the national grid and delivered to customers in December, 2017. With new facilities, repairs and rehabilitations by Government and private investors, generation capability now exceeds 7,500 MW.
23. This Administration is committed to lawful interventions to ensure the operators of the distribution business live up to expectations especially in the areas of distribution capacity, service delivery, collection efficiency, and metering to eliminate contentious estimated billing.
24. The Transportation Sector continues to undergo a series of reforms in order to sustain the international best practices and ensure safety and security. The nation’s major airports have witnessed reconstruction of runways, installation of navigational equipment and new international terminals due for commissioning in Abuja, Lagos, Kano and Enugu. Bilateral Air Services Agreements between Nigeria and the Governments of other countries will significantly open up new flight routes.
25. As a result of strict regulatory and compliance policies, Nigeria retained her Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Category 1 status, after a routine international audit. Recently, a new Maintenance Repair and Overhaul facility with capacity for aircraft C-checks and other comprehensive levels of maintenance was established in Lagos. This would save the country an estimated $90m annually.
26. Giant strides have been recorded over the past three years to improve road transport infrastructure in all geopolitical zones of the country.27. The Railway Sector has also received tremendous attention as this Administration is committed to the goal of linking all State capitals in the Federation by rail network to ease the movement of goods and passengers.
28. The Education Sector especially at tertiary level has continued to witness expansion in order to improve access to higher education by millions of youths in Nigeria. Over the last three years, Government has approved the establishment of 1 new Federal Polytechnic, granted licenses for the establishment of 4 State and 14 private-owned Universities as well as 12 private Polytechnics.
29. Government has also continued to support the implementation of various initiatives aimed at improving the quality of Basic Education delivery. Thus, it has ensured proper funding at the Basic Education level with the disbursement of N42.2 billion UBE Matching Grant to 26 States and the FCT, N851.5 million Special Education Grant disbursed to 23 States and private providers of Special Education and N2.2 billion Teachers Professional Development Fund to 33 States and the FCT.
30. The Federal Government has continued to support fiscal sustainability at the sub-national governments through the implementation of the Budget Support Facility which was accompanied by the 22- point Fiscal Sustainability Plan. Thus, bailouts funds were made available to States to ease their fiscal challenges and other obligations including payment of salaries.
31. In addition, a total of 73 Ecological Fund projects for the control of gully erosion in different communities across all geopolitical zones have been completed in the last three years and are undergoing commissioning while 53 other projects are ongoing. The execution of these projects has generated 357 skilled jobs and 1,350 unskilled jobs during this period.
32. It is pertinent to also make mention of the immeasurable contributions of the Nigerian woman to national development and advancement of democracy, over the last three years. The government and people appreciate you all as mothers of our great country.
33. My dear country men and women, as we all celebrate our democratic experience, let us resolve to avoid hatred and intolerance; we can only achieve our objectives in an atmosphere of harmony and peaceful co-existence.34. Finally, the up-coming months will usher us into another season of general elections. Let me use this opportunity to urge us all to conduct ourselves, our wards and our constituencies with the utmost sense of fairness, justice and peaceful co-existence such that we will have not only hitch free elections but also a credible and violence free process.
35. In few days to come, I will be joined by many promising young Nigerians to sign into law the “Not Too Young to Run” Bill
36. I thank you for your attention.
37. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Related
Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact [email protected]
You may like
news
Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria
Published
2 days agoon
December 21, 2024Director General NSC, Bar. Bukola Olopade Extends Christmas Greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South and Across Nigeria
By Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo
In a heartfelt message, The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, has extended warm festive greetings to Christians in Abeokuta South, Ogun State, and across Nigeria as the nation embarks on the joyous celebration of Christmas.
Recognizing the significance of this time of year, Olopade emphasized the essence of unity, love, and gratitude that the Christmas season embodies. He urged citizens to reflect on the virtues of compassion and generosity, which are particularly vital in fostering peace and harmony in communities.
“Christmas is a time for joy, reflection, and togetherness. It reminds us of the values of love and kindness, which are fundamental to our social fabric,” said Olopade. “As we celebrate this festive season, let us remember those in need and extend a hand of support to one another.”
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, acknowledged the challenges that many have faced over the past year, including economic hardships and social unrest, yet he expressed optimism for the future. “In the spirit of Christmas, let us embrace hope and look forward to a brighter tomorrow. Our unity and resilience can overcome any challenges we face.”
Olopade also highlighted the importance of sports in promoting peace and national unity, noting that the NSC is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all Nigerians can participate in sports and recreational activities. He encouraged communities to engage in sports events during the festive period as a means to strengthen bonds and celebrate togetherness.
As part of his Christmas message, Olopade called on everyone to prioritize the welfare of others, particularly the less fortunate. He urged individuals and organizations to consider charitable acts that can uplift those in need during this season of giving.
In closing, Bar. Bukola Olopade wished all Nigerians a Merry Christmas filled with love, peace, and joy. He expressed hope that the spirit of the season would inspire a renewed commitment to community service and cooperation among citizens.
As the festivities continue, the Chairman’s message resonates with the values of compassion, unity, and hope, encouraging all to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.
Related
Business
Dangote Hails Tinubu on Impact of Crude for Naira Swap Deal
Published
2 days agoon
December 21, 2024Dangote Hails Tinubu on Impact of Crude for Naira Swap Deal
…As Dangote Refinery partners MRS to sell PMS at N935 per litre nationwide at its retail outlets
Sahara Weekly Unveils That The Foremost entrepreneur and President of the Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the positive impact of the naira for crude swap deal on the Nigerian economy, which has led to reduction in prices of petroleum products in the country.
To provide succour to Nigerians, Dangote recently reduced the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from N970 to N899.50 at its Refinery loading gantry and provided generous credit terms to marketers.
“To ensure that this price reduction gets to the end consumer, we have signed a partnership with MRS to sell petrol from its retail outlets nationwide at N935 per litre” he added. This price has already commenced in Lagos, and it will be offered nationwide from Monday.
In his statement, he called on other oil marketers such as the NNPC Retail and all other marketers, “to work with us to ensure that Nigerians enjoy high-quality petrol at discounted prices.”
According to him, “The Dangote Refinery is for the benefit of Nigeria and Nigerians. We will therefore continue to work with various value chain players to deliver high quality petrol at cheaper prices. Our aim is for all Nigerians to have ready access to high quality petroleum products that are good for their vehicles, good for their health, and good for their pockets.
Recall that in September, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) under the leadership of Mr. President approved the sale of crude to local refineries in Naira and corresponding purchase of petroleum products in Naira. The move, which commenced on October 1, led to reduced pressure on the dollar and ensured the stability of the local currency.
Dangote thanked Nigerians for their unwavering support and the government for creating an enabling environment for the domestic refining industry.
Related
religion
Prophecy for 2025: A Year of Vengeance, Harvest, and Divine Shifts By Pro. Kingsley Aitafo
Published
2 days agoon
December 21, 2024Prophecy for 2025: A Year of Vengeance, Harvest, and Divine Shifts By Pro. Kingsley Aitafo
Sahara Weekly Reports That Prophet Kingsley Aitafo, under the grace and spiritual leadership of His Eminence Rev. Pastor Samuel Belehou Oshoffa, founder of the Celestial Church of Christ, has unveiled 25 prophecies for the year 2025. These revelations call for vigilance, prayer, and alignment with divine purpose. Below is the detailed list of the prophecies:
1. A Year of Divine Justice
2025 will be a year of vengeance upon the wicked and a season of abundant harvest for the righteous. This is a time for reflection and spiritual alignment.
2. Weather Disasters to Pray Against
The world must unite in prayers against severe weather disasters, including excessive winds, water overflow, floods, earthquakes, and tsunamis. These natural calamities threaten to disrupt lives and properties globally.
3. A Major Technological Advancement
WhatsApp is predicted to receive a significant upgrade, potentially integrating email functionalities. This innovation will redefine digital communication.
4. Nigeria’s National Football Team
The Nigerian national football team should be prayed for, as a painful defeat could occur.
5. A Great Man of God in Danger
One of the most celebrated men of God is at risk of sudden death. Prayers are needed to avert this tragedy.
6. Sunday Igboho
The activist should be prayed for to avoid heart-touching news that could cause widespread concern.
7. Nnamdi Kanu
Freedom is within reach for Nnamdi Kanu, but prayers are needed to ensure he lives to see it.
8. Fire Disasters Worldwide
Serious fire disasters are foreseen and must be prayed against to protect lives and properties globally.
9. NYSC and PHCN Reforms
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) will be empowered and reshuffled for greater effectiveness.
10. Global Police Forces
The police worldwide are warned of potential brutal revolts from the masses. Prayers are needed to prevent such events.
11. African Nations and Coups
Several African countries are advised to pray against unexpected coup plots.
12. Goodluck Jonathan’s Political Path
Former President Goodluck Jonathan is encouraged to follow God’s leading and refrain from contesting future elections.
13. Changes in EFCC
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will be more empowered, but significant transformations will occur within the agency.
14. Passing of Aged Leaders
Several aged ex-presidents, traditional rulers, and military leaders will pass on in 2025.
15. New Religious Leaders
New leaders will emerge in white garment denominations and the Catholic Church, marking significant transitions.
16. Churches in Danger of Scandals
Great churches like RCCG, Winners Chapel, Christ Embassy, Mountain of Fire, and COZA are urged to pray against confusion and scandals that could lead to divisions.
17. Exposure of False Churches
Churches that operate under the guise of Christ without genuine faith will be exposed.
18. Protection of Yoruba Entertainers
Yoruba actors and actresses should pray against strange illnesses, while English-speaking entertainers must pray against sudden deaths.
19. Plane Crashes
A major plane crash could occur, causing widespread pain. Prayers are needed to prevent this disaster.
20. National Unity in Nigeria
Despite ongoing agitations, Nigeria will remain undivided.
21. The Monarch and Pope’s Seat
Prayers are required to prevent sudden vacancies in the monarchy of England and the papal seat.
22. Deadly Disease and Global Conflict
A new, more deadly ailment than COVID-19 and the potential of a mini-war loom on the horizon. The world must unite in prayer to avert these crises.
23. Rising of True Last-Day Churches
The emergence of last-day churches will bring forth spiritual giants and miraculous powers reminiscent of the apostles of old.
24. Business Tycoons in Nigeria
Successful Nigerian business magnates should seek divine protection against untimely death.
25. Christ’s Return is Near
Finally, Prophet Kingsley reminds the world that the return of Jesus Christ is near. Embracing holiness and righteousness is the only path to prepare for His coming.
Prophet Kingsley’s prophecies serve as a divine reminder for individuals, nations, and institutions to seek God’s guidance and protection. Let 2025 be a year of faith, reflection, and readiness for what lies ahead.
Let us watch, pray, and align with God’s will.
Related
Cover Of The Week
- World Food Programme (WFP) and the Republic of Madagascar sign a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen food security and transform agricultural systems December 23, 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
- World Food Programme (WFP) and the Republic of Madagascar sign a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen food security and transform agricultural systems December 23, 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
Trending
-
Entertainment6 months ago
Akanke Amororo: The New Yoruba Movie Everyone Is Talking About + Why People Are Rushing To YouTube To See It
-
Politics7 months ago
Gov Fubara And One Year of His Signature in Rivers By Nath Odili
-
Business7 months ago
FIRSTBANK WINS 2024 BEST SME BANK IN NIGERIA AND BEST SME BANK IN AFRICA BY ASIAN BANKER AWARDS
-
Business5 months ago
PROFILE: JESSICA AMARACHI OKU BY CHINEDU NSOFOR
You must be logged in to post a comment Login