Business

“Our government has been helping states to realise their developmental plans irrespective of political parties’ – President Buhari

Published

8 years ago

September 2, 2016

President Muhammadu Buhari has declared that change can not be attained on a bed of roses and demanded understanding of Nigerians while he deals with the ailing economy.

He also described the newly completed Osogbo Government High school built by the Governor of Osun state, Mr Rauf Aregbesola as an educational legacy that must be emulated by other states of the federation.

Speaking while commissioning the state-of-the-art school to commemorate the 25th creation anniversary of the state in Osogbo yesterday, President Buhari stated that his government has been doing all it could to assist state governments to realise their developmental plans irrespective of their political parties.

His words: “Our government has been helping states to realise their developmental plans irrespective of political parties. We are here to commission Osogbo Government High School, one of the legacy projects of Rauf Aregbesola.

“The facility here is worthy of emulation by other states. What we are witnessing here is a fulfilment of our government policy on education.

“The economy of scales in this edifice is unquantifiable and so we must seize the opportunities the school has in stock.

“During our campaigns, we promised our people positive and progressive change. But history has taught us that change does not come as easy as that. Change will come after much hard work, patience and perseverance. We promise that we shall do everything for our country and our people and this won’t be long in coming,”.

“As you are aware, the purpose of state creation is to bring leaders of government closer to the people, accelerate development, promote patriotic spirit and engender self-sufficiency”.

“I am glad to note that efforts are in place for Osun to achieve these desire goals”.

“With our progressive governance system in place, I believe it will only be a matter of time before more will be done that will quicken the pace of development all over the country”.

“In a federal system, states and local governments are the centres of development, our administration has been helping the states, not just to survive the harsh economic and financial weathers, but to realise their developmental objectives as well, irrespective of the political party in place. We will continue to do this”.

“In our party’s manifesto, we promised to provide free and qualitative basic education by implementing the Basic Education Act. We also promised to make education more cost-effective, even as we devote not less than 10 percent of the budget on education”.

“There should be a substantial commitment of energy and resources to education by all the levels of government. This is how we can renew our society and shape the future of our children”.

“We promised the Nigerian people positive and progressive change during our campaign. We are not and shall not be deterred from that noble undertaking”.

“But as we have learnt from history, change has never been attained by nation states on a bed of roses, but rather, through patience, perseverance and steadfastness”.

“We are quite aware of the pains and incoveniences that have been the lot of the citizenry in the past one year as we strive to faithfully implement our programmes in fulfilment of our change agenda”.

“We are however comforted by the real change and progress we have made in fighting corruption and restoring integrity to government; providing security for lives and property; and positioning the government for effectiveness and especially deregulating the oil sector”.

“We must also not forget the fiscal discipline that has nor characterised government business at all levels. This indeed is how it should be and we are determined to introduce and implement actions and measures that will entrench the change mantra in our individual lives just as we are doing in curtailing excessive waste and rent seeking in governance”.

“We are determined to remain on track as we strive to deliver to rescue the country from past mistakes in fulfilment of our promise of improving the conditions of our people and makinf Nigeria a prosperous country”.

Speaking earlier, the Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola commended President Buhari for his leadership qualities, saying that Buhari since his assumption of office has not disappointed the many patriots.

He also lauded the President for facing his job with uncommon courage despite the obvious grim challenges, one of which is declining revenue.

Aregbesola attributed the challenge being faced by the President to the progressive decline in oil receipts to less than 20 per cent of what it was shortly before he came to office.

He noted that the shortfall in oil has affected the Federal Government and put not less than 28 states under severe financial strain, adding that if not for the courage of the President and his team, the country could have gone totally bankrupt.

‎Governor Aregbesola noted that the commissioning of the school is the manifestation of both governments’ commitment to educational development, which is also derived from APC’s ideology and manifesto of providing mass education to the people.

“We are producing the new man. The overall aim is to develop the new man intellectually, socially and morally. This new man is placed in the centre of society who views his own development as part of and for the development of society.

Dignitaries at the event were: the Governor’s of Borno, Oyo and Lagos States Kazeem Shettima, Isiaka Ajimobi and Akinwunmi Ambode respectively; former Governor of the state, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, and former Deputy Governor of Ogun, Segun Adesegun.

Wife of the Osun Governor, Alhaja Sherifat Aregbesola, Deputy Governor of Osun, Mrs Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori were also present at the ceremony.

Others included former Chief of Army Staff, General Alani Akinrinade (rtd) and Air Vice Marshal Oluseyi Petirin (rtd); Speaker of Lagos State, Rt. Hon Mudasir Obasa; Senator Babajide Omoworare (Osun West); Senator Prof. Sola Adeyeye (Osun Central).

Royal fathers at the occasion were Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi; Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; Ataoja of Osogbo, Jimoh Olanipekun; Akinrun of Ikirun, Oba Abdurauf Adedeji; Oluwo of Iwo, Oba AbdulRasheed Adewale Akanbi among others.

Business

FIRSTBANK’S DECEMBERISSAVYBE LIGHTS UP LAGOS WITH DAVIDO CONCERT

Published

11 hours ago

December 26, 2024

Sahara Weekly

FIRSTBANK’S DECEMBERISSAVYBE LIGHTS UP LAGOS WITH DAVIDO CONCERT

By Farouk Mohammed

Once again, FirstBank has reaffirmed its position as a champion of arts, culture, and entertainment through its annual DecemberIssaVybe initiative. This year, the bank brought music lovers an unforgettable Christmas Eve experience with the Davido Live in Lagos concert, held at the iconic Eko Hotel Convention Centre. As part of the initiative, the event was a highlight of the festive season, delivering joy, excitement, and unmatched entertainment to thousands of fans.

Delivering Exclusive Experiences

True to its legacy, FirstBank ensured its customers and followers had the chance to enjoy this spectacular event through ticket giveaways across its social media platforms. By engaging with fans on Instagram (@firstbanknigeria) and Facebook (First Bank of Nigeria Limited), the bank seamlessly connected with its audience, creating opportunities for them to witness one of Nigeria’s biggest stars perform live.

Through its First@arts initiatives like these, FirstBank continues to elevate the entertainment experience for its stakeholders, positioning itself as more than just a financial institution but a lifestyle enabler. The bank’s efforts underscore its commitment to bringing premium opportunities to its customers, creating memorable moments for families and individuals alike.

Davido: The Highlight of DecemberIssaVybe

On Christmas Eve, the atmosphere at the Eko Hotel Convention Centre was nothing short of electric as Davido, the Afrobeats superstar, delivered an exhilarating performance. With hits like “Feel,” “Unavailable,” “FUNDS,” and “Dami Duro”, the audience was immersed in a musical journey that celebrated Nigerian creativity and artistry. The energy was infectious, as fans sang along to every lyric, making the concert an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

For many, this was their first time seeing Davido live, and FirstBank made it possible, proving once again its dedication to supporting the arts and providing access to world-class entertainment.

The Spirit of DecemberIssaVybe

The DecemberIssaVybe initiative is not just about music; it’s about community, homecoming, and shared joy. Designed to resonate with Nigerians, both at home and in the diaspora, the initiative creates opportunities for family bonding and cultural connection during the festive season. Events like Davido’s concert, the Calabar Carnival, and Flytime Fest have all contributed to making the 2024 edition of DecemberIssaVybe truly extraordinary. Through DecemberIssaVybe, FirstBank continues to demonstrate its commitment to enriching the lives of its customers by providing access to premium events and creating platforms that celebrate the essence of Nigerian culture.

More Than Banking: A Commitment to Community

FirstBank’s impact goes beyond providing financial services—it’s about enabling memorable experiences. By supporting events like the Davido Live in Lagos concert, FirstBank strengthens its bond with customers, enhancing its role as a catalyst for joy and togetherness during the festive season.

With its steadfast support for the arts and entertainment industry, FirstBank also contributes to the economic empowerment of the value chain, showcasing its leadership in promoting culture, music, and creativity in Nigeria.

Stay Connected, Stay Vibing

For those who experienced the magic of Davido’s concert and other DecemberIssaVybe events, the memories will remain cherished. For those who missed out, FirstBank offers more opportunities to join the excitement. Stay tuned to its social media platforms—Instagram (@firstbanknigeria), Twitter (@FirstBankngr), and Facebook (First Bank of Nigeria Limited)—for updates, contests, and more exciting opportunities.

Business

Don’t Return Fuel Subsidy Through Dubious Means, Group Tells NNPCL’s Mele Kyari

Published

17 hours ago

December 26, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Don’t Return Fuel Subsidy Through Dubious Means, Group Tells NNPCL’s Mele Kyari

The Afenifere Mandate Forum (AMF) has cautioned the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) against re-introducing fuel subsidy through dubious means, citing the regime’s notorious history of corruption.

The group emphasised the need for transparency going forward, urging the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) not to make payments to NNPCL’s foreign partners in the name of subsidy.

In a statement signed by its President, Otunba Davies Folorunsho, the group said the fuel subsidy regime was embroiled in corruption, with allegations of fraudulent payments and inflated subsidies.

Folorunsho said Mele Kyari, the Group CEO of NNPCL, was at the centre of the controversy, with reports of the company importing toxic fuel from Malta.

He noted that this not only perpetuated corruption but also endangered the health and safety of Nigerians.

However, Folorunsho said the he removal of fuel subsidy has been a significant step towards economic recovery, saving the country billions of dollars that were previously spent on subsidizing petrol prices.

“In 2022 alone, subsidies gulped $10 billion, leaving the state oil company NNPC with nothing to remit to the treasury,” he added.

“Fuel subsidy were not only financially ruinous but also largely regressive, benefiting mostly car-owning urbanites and those who could afford petrol-powered generators.

“As a result of the subsidy removal, the financial burden on the government has been significantly reduced, freeing up more funds for critical infrastructure and social programs.

“Additionally, government revenue has increased, smuggling has decreased, and the risk of adulterated fuel has been mitigated. The removal of fuel subsidy has also paved the way for a more sustainable energy ecosystem, encouraging the use of alternative energy sources and reducing Nigeria’s reliance on fossil fuels.

The group urged the NNPCL to maintain transparency in its operations and avoid re-introducing fuel subsidy through the backdoor.

“We believe that the removal of fuel subsidy is a step in the right direction, and we urge the government to continue on this path towards economic recovery,” Folorunsho said.

Business

Adron Homes Celebrates Christmas with Customers, Reaffirms Commitment to Bridging Nigeria’s Housing Deficit

Published

23 hours ago

December 26, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Adron Homes Celebrates Christmas with Customers, Reaffirms Commitment to Bridging Nigeria’s Housing Deficit

As the world embraces the joy and warmth of the Christmas season, Adron Homes and Properties, Nigeria’s foremost real estate company, has extended heartfelt greetings to its esteemed customers while reaffirming its commitment to addressing the nation’s housing challenges.

In a message of gratitude and celebration, Adron Homes expressed deep appreciation to its customers for their trust and loyalty throughout 2024. The company highlighted its unwavering dedication to making incredible housing affordable for all Nigerians, in line with its mission of reducing the country’s housing deficit.

“Christmas is a time to celebrate family, unity, and gratitude,” the statement read. “As we reflect on the year, we are proud to have played a role in making homeownership a reality for thousands of Nigerians. Our vision is clear—to bridge the housing deficit by providing affordable, luxurious, and secure homes for all, regardless of income level.”

Adron Homes has continued to lead the real estate industry by implementing innovative solutions that make homeownership accessible, including flexible payment plans and cost-effective housing models tailored to meet diverse customer needs.

As part of its Christmas and end-of-the-year celebration, the company has launched a special festive promotions ‘Lemon Friday’ aimed at encouraging more Nigerians to join its growing community of homeowners.

“We remain committed to transforming dreams into reality. This is not just about building homes; it’s about building futures and creating opportunities for families to thrive in a space they can call their own,” the statement added.

Adron Homes extended warm wishes to all Nigerians and its global customers, urging them to embrace the season’s spirit of love and hope. “May your homes be filled with peace, joy, and prosperity this Christmas and beyond.”