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HIS EXCELLENCY, PROF. PLACID NJOKU: AN EXCEPTIONAL (FORMER) DEPUTY GOVERNOR OF IMO STATE TOOK A BOW OF HONOUR ON JANUARY 14TH 2024

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HIS EXCELLENCY, PROF. PLACID NJOKU: AN EXCEPTIONAL (FORMER) DEPUTY GOVERNOR OF IMO STATE TOOK A BOW OF HONOUR ON JANUARY 14TH 2024. BY CHINEDU NSOFOR

HIS EXCELLENCY, PROF. PLACID NJOKU: AN EXCEPTIONAL (FORMER) DEPUTY GOVERNOR OF IMO STATE TOOK A BOW OF HONOUR ON JANUARY 14TH 2024.

BY
CHINEDU NSOFOR

 

 

Prof. Placid Njoku, a distinguished academic and statesman, took a bow of honour on January 14th 2024, concluding his term as Deputy Governor of Imo State with a legacy of exceptional service and transformational leadership.

 

 

 

HIS EXCELLENCY, PROF. PLACID NJOKU: AN EXCEPTIONAL (FORMER) DEPUTY GOVERNOR OF IMO STATE TOOK A BOW OF HONOUR ON JANUARY 14TH 2024.
BY
CHINEDU NSOFOR

 

Prof. Placid Chike Njoku was born on the 10th February, 1947 in Umuri Amaimo, Ikeduru LGA in Imo State. He is a scholar with a stellar reputation in academia, administration and politics. Prof. Njoku received a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from University of Nigeria Nsukka (1974), Master’s in Poultry Science (1978) and Ph.D in (Major) Monogastric Animal Nutrition; (Minor) Physiology and Biochemistry (1980) from University of Nebraska-Lincoln, U.S.A, respectively.

Prof. Njoku’s journey into the realm of politics was an unexpected one but indeed, a definite act of God as his exceptional dedication quickly set him apart. As a seasoned academic, he rose to the climax of his career as Pioneer Vice Chancellor of Federal University of Agriculture (now Michael Okpara University of Agriculture) Umudike and became a well-respected figure in the academia community. Also as a quintessential professional, Professor Njoku was unanimously elected in 2007 in far away Ile-Ife as the Pioneer President of the Nigerian Institute of Animal Science, thus making one of the few Nigerians who have pioneered two chartered Federal institutions. His performance in both institutions is laden with outstanding logacies. So many were shockingly surprised when he accepted the nomination to serve as Deputy Governor of Imo State. However, his decision was rooted in a deep sense of duty and a desire to contribute to the betterment of Imo State.

From the outset, Prof. Njoku demonstrated an extraordinary level of dedication in his role. His collaborative spirit with the Governor, His Excellency, Sen. Hope Uzodimma, was instrumental in achieving numerous milestones for the state. Their partnership became a model for effective governance, showcasing the power of unity, synergy and shared vision in driving progress. His exceptional loyalty to the Executive Governor was without repugnancy. He projected his Principal’s image bringing his wealth of knowledge and passion for positive change to the forefront of Imo State’s governance. As he stepped down from his role as Deputy Governor on 14th January 2024, the people of Imo State celebrated his unwavering dedication to public service. He gracefully attended the swearing-in of his Principal for a second term in office as Governor of Imo State at which he cheered, and received many distinguished guests with his usual warmth. Throughout his tenure, Prof. Njoku proved to be an impeccable Deputy Governor, demonstrating a keen understanding of the intricacies of governance and a commitment to the well-being of Imo State citizens. His leadership was characterized by transparency, loyalty, accountability, integrity, sense of responsibility and wonderful humour.

One of Prof Njoku’s most notable achievements was his role in promoting the image of the 3R administration and also spearheading educational reforms in Imo State. As an academician himself, he recognized the transformative potential of education and worked tirelessly to improve the quality of schools, provided quality advise for the enhancement of curriculum standards, and provided better opportunities for students of Imo State using his wide range of both national and international networks in the educational sector. Working within his Principal Distingiushed Sen. Hope Uzodimma, Imo State witnessed a significant rise in educational standards and increased access to quality learning. Institutions with programmes with denied accreditation programmes had their programmes accredited. Moribund institutions were resuscitated to provide Imo children more opportunities to actualize themselves academically.

Beyond education, Prof Njoku played a pivotal role in various infrastructural developments through his wise counsel and unparalleled contributions at the State Executive Council. His unwavering support for the Governor’s agenda and his intelligent guidance as a seasoned scholar of international repute, saw the implementation of key projects that improved the lives and well-being of the citizens of Imo State. From road networks to healthcare facilities, the impact of their joint efforts was felt across the length and breadth of Imo State. As Chairman of the State Boundary Committee, he applied his wealth of experience in resolving age-old boundary/land disputes between Local Governments. He also provided the fundamental documentations which enabled the National Boundary Commission complete the field work for the delineation of the boundaries of Imo and Rivers States. He also worked with his Principal, His Excellency, Sen. Hope Uzodimma in articulating historical documentation and arguments that saw Imo State through the Supreme Court boundary case with Rivers State.

Additionally, Prof Njoku’s exceptional loyalty extended beyond policy and governance. His commitment to inclusivity and community engagement has endeared him to the People and the Government of Imo State. His effective representation of the Executive Governor at Town Hall meetings, outreach programs, the National Economic Council, the Nigerian Governors Forum, the Progressive Governors Forum, the Southern Governors Forum, the Southeast Governors Forum and his genuine connection with the grassroots have been the hallmarks of his approach, ensuring that the government remains connected to the pulse of the people. An ardent believer in God Almighty, Prof. Njoku heavily relies on God for vision, direction and sustenance as visibly seen in his excellent participation in religious activities for self and State.

As Prof Njoku takes a bow of honour after four years of selfless and dutiful service, the people of Imo State reflect on the legacy of exceptional loyalty and the values of hard work and servant leadership he leaves behind. His tenure has been a testament to the power of collaboration, dedication, and a shared vision for progress despite visible hardships faced during times of global health, economic and security challenges. The impact of his contributions will undoubtedly resonate for years to come, serving as an inspiration for future leaders and a reminder of the transformative potential of unwavering loyalty, dedication and a sense of duty to public service.

Chinedu Nsofor is the authorized biographer of His Excellency, Prof. Placid Chike Njoku and he writes from Owerri, Imo State.

Business

Lion Oshiyemi Pledges redefinition, reposition as he emerges 20th President of OGUNCCIMA

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Lion Oshiyemi Pledges redefinition, reposition as he emerges 20th President of OGUNCCIMA

Lion Niyi Oshiyemi has been invested as the 20th President of the Ogun State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OGUNCCIMA) at the Chamber’s 40th Annual General Meeting.

The investiture ceremony of the new OGUNCCIMA leadership was held on Thursday at Tunwase Hall in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State with top Chamber movement members in attendance.

The President In his acceptance speech, expressed gratitude to the immediate past President, Engr. Mike Akingbade, and the Chamber for entrusting him with the esteemed position.

He pledged to leverage available opportunities to redefine and reposition the Chamber, creating platforms to influence legislation and improve the business environment.

“I am honored to lead this prestigious organization and I promise to harness all available opportunities to redefine and reposition the chamber of commerce movement in the state”.

“I will continue to create platforms to influence legislation and other measures affecting trade, improve the business environment, and build a Nigerian economy of thriving business opportunities through networking”.

“I wish to enjoin you all who represent businesses, if you have not joined the OGUNCCIMA, please come and lend your voice to others. The bigger the network, the louder the voice and the stronger the influence”.

“Our advocacy seeks to ensure that the business community can have its voice heard on issues that are important to it”.

“I’d like to introduce to you my Presidency’s flagship project “OGUNCCIMA Secretariat”: The project is massive and requires a lot, I therefore seek your support and look forward to partnering with all stakeholders – the state government and it’s agencies (Federal and State Ministries, Departments and Agencies), development partners, the diplomatic communities, the media, and other stakeholders”, he said.

Oshiyemi also praised the founding fathers of the Chamber, saying, “I laud the vision of our founding fathers, who have laid a solid foundation for us to build upon. I am committed to taking OGUNCCIMA to greater heights and making it a beacon of hope for businesses in Ogun State.”

The Ogun State Hon. Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Hon. Adebola Sofela Emmanuel, in his keynote address said by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Trade and Investment, Dr. Olu Ola Aikulola, said over the years that the Ogun State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OGUNCCIMA), has not only remained a beacon of entrepreneurial excellence, but also partners in driving economic growth, fostering trade, and promoting investment opportunities in the state.

He said: “I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to OGUNCCIMA on this historical movement. Forty years of dedicated service to the industrial, trade, and agricultural sectors of Ogun State is no small feat”.

“Over the years, the Ogun State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OGUNCCIMA) has not only been a beacon of entrepreneurial excellence but also a pivotal partner in driving industrial growth, fostering trade, and promoting investment opportunities”.

“Today, as we elect new officers to continue this legacy of excellence, I urge all members to approach this process with a spirit of unity, fairness, and foresight. The future of our chambers and the economic well-being of our state depend on the collective wisdom and strategic vision of our leaders”.

“For us, as a government, we will continue to put in place Institutional mechanisms that will guide our various developmental programmes in all sector of the economy”, he added.

In his remarks, NACCIMA President, Dele Kelvin Oye, represented by the Director – General, Olusola Obadimu, urged the new leadership of OGUNCCIMA to reflect on the the Chambers achievements and chart the course for the future.

“Today, as we gather for the 40th Annual General Meeting and Investiture of New Executives, I want to charge the new leadership to be dedicated and build on the achievements of the past administrations”.

“On behalf of NACCIMA, I congratulate the new officers and may our shared efforts continue to bear fruit, and may new officers lead us for greater heights of success and prosperity”, he concluded.

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ASR AFRICA FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF A N280 MILLION INTEGRATED PUBLISHING HOUSE FOR BABCOCK UNIVERSITY, ILISHAN-REMO, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

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ASR AFRICA FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF A N280 MILLION INTEGRATED PUBLISHING HOUSE FOR BABCOCK UNIVERSITY, ILISHAN-REMO, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

ASR AFRICA FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF A N280 MILLION INTEGRATED PUBLISHING HOUSE FOR BABCOCK UNIVERSITY, ILISHAN-REMO, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

 

 

 

 

Sahara Weekly Reports That The Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa), the philanthropic initiative of the Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu (CFR, CON), has flagged off the construction of a N280 million Abdul Samad Rabiu Integrated Publishing House for Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State. This project will enhance the capacity of the University from basic press status to a modern, integrated publishing house to encompass publishing, print production, and other related diversified services. The one-storey building facility will serve as a laboratory and studio for training students of communications, media studies, and allied disciplines as well as other disciplines.

 

 

 

ASR AFRICA FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF A N280 MILLION INTEGRATED PUBLISHING HOUSE FOR BABCOCK UNIVERSITY, ILISHAN-REMO, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

 

 

 

 

At the groundbreaking event, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Ademola S. Tayo, expressed satisfaction at the nomination by ASR Africa, under its Tertiary Education Grant Scheme. He added that the choice of the project was a response to the vision to take the Mass Communications Department of the University to a whole new level. According to him, the university’s vision is to produce young men and women capable of critical thinking, and problem-solvers capable of proffering innovative solutions to problems of everyday life, be it social, political, and cultural.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In his response, Dr. Ubon Udoh, the Managing Director of ASR Africa, expressed his delight at the University’s choice of establishing an Integrated Publishing House. He added that when information is appropriately applied, human society is empowered to liberate itself from limitations and attain its full potential. Dr Udoh reiterated the commitment of the Chairman of ASR Africa, Abdul Samad Rabiu to supporting quality education within the tertiary education system in Nigeria and urged the institution to focus on the sustainability of this noble project. He also reiterated the importance of cooperation and collaboration between the university and the contractor for the timely delivery of the publishing house.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

About ASR Africa

ASR Africa is the brainchild of African Industrialist, Philanthropist, and Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) was established in 2021 to provide sustainable, impact-based, homegrown solutions to developmental issues affecting Health, Education and Social Development within Africa.

 

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CBOs Laud Minister of Agric Kyari Over Transparent Distribution Of Fertilisers, Foodstuff Across Nigeria

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CBOs Laud Minister of Agric Kyari Over Transparent Distribution Of Fertilisers, Foodstuff Across Nigeria

CBOs Laud Minister of Agric Kyari Over Transparent Distribution Of Fertilisers, Foodstuff Across Nigeria

 

 

A network of community-based organizations (CBOs) in Nigeria, the Coalition of Ethnic Nationalities’ Rights Agenda, the South East Revival Coalition, and Progressive Yoruba Youth for Change have applauded the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, for his efforts and transparency in the distribution of food, fertilisers and other farming inputs across the country.

 

CBOs Laud Minister of Agric Kyari Over Transparent Distribution Of Fertilisers, Foodstuff Across Nigeria

 

The CBOs gave the commendation at a joint press conference held in Abuja on Thursday. The conference was addressed by Mallam Yusuf Khalifa, National Coordinator of the Coalition of Ethnic Nationalities’ Rights Agenda; Dr. Eberechi Okonkwo, Convener of the South East Revival Coalition; and Comrade Olajide Olumide Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of Progressive Yoruba Youth for Change.

 

 

 

“The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari has established a reputation for integrity and transparency in the ministry. The transparency in the distribution of food, fertilisers and other farming inputs across the country under Kyari’s stewardship is unprecedented,” the CBOs said.

 

 

 

“Senator Kyari has demonstrated a practical commitment to enhancing food security and nutrition in the country by prioritising equity and fairness in the distribution of food, fertilisers and other farming inputs.

“We salute his sense of nationalism. His fair distribution of farming inputs has laid a strong foundation for a prosperous and sustainable agricultural sector. Kyari’s tireless efforts to revolutionise the agricultural sector as well as to ensure that Nigeria becomes self-sufficient in food production is beyond patriotic.

“His exceptional leadership has made the the issue of marginalization in the distribution of food, fertilisers and other farming inputs, a thing of the past in the country. The effective utilization of resources by the Minister has proven not only instrumental to modernising the agricultural space but also to peace and harmony on farms across the nation.

“We applaud Senator Kyari for championing the emancipation of Nigerian farmers, particularly those in rural communities who previously lacked access to government-distributed food, fertilizers, and other farming supplies. Kyari’s unwavering support for women and youth in agriculture has resulted in increased distribution of food, fertilizers, and other farming inputs to more female and young farmers this year than ever before.

“This network of community-based organisations urges the beneficiaries, especially those in the rural communities, to use the supplies judiciously for the purpose they were distributed for. The government has prioritised the agricultural sector as a key driver of Nigeria’s economic growth, hence, its unwavering support of the sector. Farmers must corroborate the government’s efforts by taking advantage of its policies, programmes and interventions.

“We urge the Minister to sustain his visionary leadership, effective resource utilization, and strategic initiatives which have yielded significant progress in the agricultural sector.

“We remain committed to working alongside the Minister to strengthen the agricultural sector and achieve a prosperous, food-secure, and environmentally sustainable Nigeria.”

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