Macron's Visit: France Based Agency, Ogun, Others Partner on Restoration of 108,000 Hectares of Degraded Lands

The Ogun State Government, France based In-Vivo Foundation and the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority, have signed a Letter of Intent, officialising the kick off of the "Ile Dotun" project implementation.

Aimed towards land revival, it is expected to restore the 108,000 hectares of degraded lands, belonging to the forest and game reserves of Imeko and Aworo in Ogun State.

The signing of the Letter of Intent, at the State House, Abuja, was part of highlights of the state visit of Mr. Emmanuel Macron, president of France, to Nigeria, yesterday.

Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, on behalf of the state, signed the letter for the partnership, the first structured initiative in Nigeria, towards concretising its engagement to achieve the Land Degradation Neutrality as an integral part of its Sustainable Development Goals 2015-2030 and in compliance with its engagement, contracted under the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification.

It is the first site among 13 identified as priorities to convert degraded lands into havens for nature, while producing food in a sustainable manner and creating attractive jobs and green economic growth.

Under the project, land will be allocated to restore natural forest ecosystems in order to protect water catchments and establish biological corridors as well as secured grazing areas for transhumant shepherds alongside all rivers.

Land will also be allocated to local communities, comprising 3000 small farms that will receive assistance for long-term land lease as well as financial and technical support to establish climate smart intensive agriculture and agroforestry systems, from the state government.

Private farmers groups and enterprises, seeking means to develop agroforestry and forestry activities, are also to benefit.

It is expected that more partnerships will follow in the coming months, to secure the financial and technical inputs, needed for the successful implementation of Ile Dotun, as a new agricultural development paradigm.

French entities are said to be involved in the project, while more are expected to join this important innovative initiative, paving the way to reconcile production, job creation and nature restoration.

Nigerians Have More Electricity Than They Can Consume, Says Garba Shehu

“We have more electricity that cannot be consumed, 2,000 megawatts of electricity that nobody is taking. By the year ending, we are going to hit 10,000 megawatts from the 2,600 that we inherited,” he said.

He also said that the war against corruption led by the President was attracting lots of attacks from those who benefitted from the old system of things.

Source Sahara Reporters
Agege Pulse

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How Mikel Obi’s father Regained Freedom after 72 hours in kidnappers’ den

Michael Obi, father of Mikel Obi, captain of Super Eagles, has been rescued from a den of kidnappers in Enugu state.

Ebere Amaraizu, spokesman of the Enugu state police command, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.

He said police operatives rescued Obi, his driver and Ishaya John through a well-coordinated operation around 2:30pm on Monday.

Amaraizu said the feat was achieved by the command’s operatives from the 9th mile division.

He disclosed that the operatives also recovered Obi’s Toyota Prado jeep.

“It was gathered that Michael Obi and his driver were abducted along Makurdi-Enugu Road on June 29 in the afternoon on his way from Jos in his grey-coloured Toyota Prado jeep with registration number: MUS 604 CG and taken to an unknown destination through the thick forest part of the area,” he said.

“It was further gathered that the abductors started calling to demand a ransom of N10 million before police operatives acted on intelligence information and swooped on them.

“In the process of the rescue, a gun duel ensued between police operatives and the kidnappers which forced the hoodlums to abandon their victims inside the forest and they were promptly rescued.’’

Amaraizu said Obi extolled the efforts of the police which led to their rescue.

“I am happy with the police operatives’ performance,” he was quoted to have said.

“I am alive and healthy. I thank the commissioner of police and the police operatives for their efforts which led to our rescue.”

Breaking: Agege, Orile Agege, Other CDAs To Benefit From Gov Ambode's Grant

AgegePulse Magazine

Information reaching Agege Pulse Magazine now says Lagos State Government is set to begin distribution of grants to Community Development Association.

It was leant that the grant is part of supports for the CDAs to be more effective in their activities.

Agege Pulse gathered that with the grant, Governor Ambode is fulfilling his campaign promise of fostering inclusive governance.

See poster for details of the epoch making event.

AgegePulse Newspaper Headlines, July 3, 2018

SOME NIGERIAN NEWSPAPER HEADLINES, 03/07/2018

Punch
Osinbajo meets IG as policemen protest in Maiduguri

Macron to open Alliance Francaise headquarters in Ikoyi

National Assembly sends revised Electoral Act bill to Buhari

Court grants Dasuki N200m bail, declares ex-NSA detention illegal

Killings: Miyetti Allah rejects calls for service chiefs’ sacking

Giwa takes over NFF as FG asks Pinnick to quit

Ex-minister Wakil, others arraigned for alleged N341m fraud

Nigeria needs N234bn to control population explosion – Minister

SON seizes 21 containers of substandard tyres

NEITI assists FG to recover $3bn from oil firms

Lagos DCO allegedly leads policemen to Ondo filling station, takes N5m

Tanker fire death rises to 12, LASG to try driver

Mikel Obi’s father rescued from kidnappers again

2019: I’m better educated than Buhari, says Turaki

Cloned PVCs: Atiku warns online platform boss against interfering with elections

Doogee launches five smartphones in Nigeria

Fayose accuses police, INEC, Fayemi of rigging plot

New Bauchi deputy gov sworn in

800 to benefit from Kakanfo, UCH free eye treatment

No university pays salary ahead of me – UNIOSUN VC

Cross River lawyers protest over pay





Th Nation
Gowon to Buhari: deal with culprits

Riot policemen protest unpaid five months stipends

Court sacks Kwara monarch

Corrupt politicians fueling insecurity, says Presidency

Plateau: 21 suspects held

I’ve no hands in killings, says Jang

Killings unacceptable, says Adeboye

Boko Haram: EFCC seizes N1b hotel from ex-presidential aide

EFCC has secured 139 convictions, says spokesman

350 Nigerians owing banks N5.8tr, says NLC

Equities open second half with N120b loss

Air Namibia begins direct flight to Lagos

Air Peace decorates first woman captain

Businessman docked for alleged N8m Canadian visa scam

One dead, 100 houses destroyed in Katsina rainstorm

Kidnapped Ebonyi siblings freed

Osun, firm sign pact to generate 30MW from solar energy



Vanguard
Herdsmen, B’Haram Killed 1,750 Christians In First Six Months Of 2018—Intersociety

Extradition: We’ve Not Taken Action Against Kashamu, NDLEA Tells Court

48-Yr-Old Paedophile Bags 60 Years Imprisonment

Rice Smuggling: NUTGTWN Urges FG To Hasten Closure Of Border With Benin Rep

Oil Firms Attempting To Sabotage Local Content Initiative — NCDMB

N341m 2015 Election Funds: EFCC Docks Ex-Power Minister, Four Others

Aggrieved Ex-Militants Write Buhari, Dokubo Over 5yrs Suit On Non-Inclusion

Apapa Wharf Road : Contractor Reassures Of July Completion Deadline

Oshiomhole’s Transparency’ll Boost My Gov Ambition —Abe

Edo Govt’s Agents Destroying My Constituency Projects —Urhoghide

Imo Assembly Fails To Get Quorum For Deputy Gov’s Impeachment

Kwara Gov Bans Charcoal Production, Trade

Otedola Bridge Tanker Fire: NGO Lauds Lagos Govt Over Survivors Medical Bills

I Gave My Mother N50,000 From Proceeds Of My First Robbery—Suspect

Lagos commences immunization of children against Polio

… Targets Over 4.8 Million Eligible Children

AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State Government has commenced the second round of the Year 2018 National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDs), polio vaccination campaign for children age 0 to 59 months and will hold from Saturday, 30th June to Tuesday, 3rd July, 2018 at all designated centre across the State.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Primary Health Care, Dr. Olufemi Onanuga who made this known at a Flag-off ceremony to signal the commencement of the campaign at Agege Local Government Secretariat, noted that a target population of more than 4million children is expected to be covered during the vaccination campaign.

“The NIPDs would involve house-to-house, transit and fixed post teams. In all, Lagos State will mount 752 fixed posts, 4859 house-to-house and 1712 transit teams, children at home, markets, churches, mosques, major car parks and social events venues would be specifically targeted”, he said.

Onanuga added that plans have been made to implement activities that would attract children and caregivers to vaccination posts, stressing that the vaccination campaign will hold between the hours of 8am and 2pm daily for four days.

While noting that the goal of the State government is to increase the number of children between 0 and 59 months, the Special Adviser informed that the infants will receive two drops of oral polio vaccine irrespective of their previous immunization status in order to boost their herd immunity against poliomyelitis.

“To ensure the success of this year’s polio vaccination campaign, many training sessions have been conducted to strengthen the capacity of relevant health workers, the State government has equally embarked on massive media campaign involving airing of jingles, while LGA social mobilizers are moving within communities to sensitize and mobilize citizenry effectively”, he explained.

Onanuga stressed further that town announcement, community dialogue, mosque and church announcement, carrying out sensitization programmes in schools and advocacy meetings with LGA Chairmen, Ward Councillors, Supervisory Councillors for Health, and key traditional and religious leaders have been and are being carried out.

While appealing to parent and caregiver to ensure that all the children in Lagos between 0 and 59 months received two oral drops of polio vaccine during this campaign, the Special Adviser declared that the vaccination service is free, the vaccine is safe and effective, and is to be administered to the children irrespective of their previous immunization status.

Said he “I hereby seize this opportunity to encourage our parents and caregivers to ensure that their children and wards are taken to the primary health care clinics to receive the vaccine and all other scheduled immunizations. This campaign is another window of opportunity to protect our children from vaccine-preventable diseases”.

Onanuga, who noted that the responsibility to vaccinate all eligible children against measles is not that of the parents and caregivers alone, averred that the responsibility rests on everybody to ensure that children are fully immunized against childhood preventable diseases.

“The State government is particularly interested in the health of the children and as such is prepared to carry out any activity that will ensure that their right to health is attained. Polio is one of the major killer diseases of children under the age of five years which can be prevented by vaccination”, the Special Adviser posited.

Tanker explosion: Lagos to prosecute truck owner, driver

…Orders security agencies to step up enforcement of traffic law

…As CP allays fears over renewed threat of militancy in Epe, Ikorodu axis


AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State Government is perfecting plans to prosecute the owner and driver of the ill-fated fuel tanker which exploded last Thursday on Otedola Bridge inward Ojodu Berger along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, the State’s Commissioner of Police, Imohimi Edgal said on Monday.

Already, the State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Adeniji Kazeem had at the weekend written to the CP to advise him on the relevant provisions of the law that could guide the ongoing investigation which would lead to possible prosecution.

Confirming receipt of the letter while briefing Government House Correspondents after the Security Council Meeting chaired by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, Edgal said investigations into the incident were ongoing, saying that government would not allow vehicles that pose serious danger to residents on the road.

The police chief, who briefed journalists alongside heads of other security agencies in the State, specifically commiserated with those who lost their loved ones to the tragic incident, while also commending emergency responders who quickly raced to the scene to keep the causality figure low.

“As regards investigation into the matter, it is in top gear. I have just received a letter from the office of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice which stated very clearly charges which we are going to prefer against the driver and the owner of that tanker.

“Henceforth, we are using this opportunity to call on all tanker drivers, all lorry drivers, all owners of such articulated vehicles to please submit those vehicles for Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) test; they must go through the entire hub and get the Ministry of Transportation (MOT) Certificate of Road Worthiness. We will not allow such vehicles which obviously pose serious danger to other road users on our roads,” Edgal said.

He said government had already directed security agencies to intensify enforcement of relevant laws, especially the State Traffic Law, with the view to ensuring that the roads and highways in the State were safe for commuters to ply without any danger.

Edgal also urged residents to always refrain from converging on the scene of any accident of such magnitude as that of the unfortunate tanker fire incident, saying there could be secondary explosion which could lead to loss of lives.

Speaking on other issues deliberated at the meeting, Edgal said the Council reviewed the security situation in the State since the last time it met, saying it was gratifying to note that there had been 17 per cent reduction in violent crimes in the period under review.

He also allayed fears over renewed threat of militancy in the creek areas of Epe, Imota and Agbowa, assuring that State Government, in collaboration with security agencies, was on top of the situation.

“We have just concluded the Security Meeting Chaired by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode and a wide range of security issues were discussed but most importantly some of the threats which we are currently having in certain parts of the State.

“The first one relates to the renewed threat of militancy around the creeks of Epe, Agbowa, Imota and the action that we are taking. There is a good synergy between the security agencies and the locals in ensuring that we keep some of these militants who want to come into the State from Ondo waters to try to disturb peace of the State.

“We are calling on all those who are in the riverine communities to continue to partner with security agents to ensure that when they see strange movement, they quickly alert security agencies so that we can keep them safe. For now, I can assure Lagosians that those areas are being properly policed and security is tight in those areas,” Edgal said.

Besides, Edgal appreciated Lagosians for credible information which had aided the fight against kidnapping, cultism, drug sale and drug abuse in the State, revealing that operatives of the Command recently intercepted a Container with over 37 Cartons of Tramadol which would have gotten to the public if not for prompt action of security agencies, just as he urged residents to continue to support security agents.

On the scheduled visit to Lagos by French and Namibian Presidents in the coming days, Edgal urged residents to show the hospitality the State is known for, while appealing for cooperation in the eventuality of road diversions and restrictions.

Giving update on the tanker accident, the Attorney General (Kazeem) said families of the victims had started submitting relevant samples to aid DNA test, saying: “I can confirm that today, families who lost their loved ones to the accident have started reporting at the Lagos State DNA Forensic Centre for submission of reference samples that would be used to identify victims.”

OTEDOLA BRIDGE INCIDENT: LAGOS RESTRICTS TANKERS TO DESIGNATED TRAILER ROUTE

…Gives 30-Day Ultimatum For Articulated Vehicles To Obtain Road Worthiness Certificate

AgegePulse Magazine

Following the tragic tanker explosion on Otedola Bridge inward Ojodu Berger along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway which claimed lives and property, the Lagos State Government on Sunday restricted movement of Fuel Tankers to designated trailer route going forward.

The government also said it was now mandatory for all articulated trucks coming into Lagos to obtain the Ministry of Transportation’s Road Worthiness Certificate at any of the designated centres within the next 30 days.


Addressing a joint press briefing at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa after meeting with all the relevant stakeholders including Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO), Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), National Association of Transport Operators (NATO), Container Truck Owners Association of Nigeria, among others, the State’s Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Ladi Lawanson, said the decision became necessary following preliminary investigations into the incident which revealed a combination of vehicular defect and human errors.



Lawanson said: “As an immediate response to the latest incident, the Lagos State Government hereby announces the following measures: Fuel tankers are hereby directed to ply the designated trailer route, that is, Apapa-Oworonshoki Expressway via Ogudu to Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.



“All Tankers and containers coming into Lagos State from henceforth are directed to obtain the Ministry of Transportation Certificate of Road Worthiness at any of or centres within the next 30 days, while new centres along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway will be established to quickly to cope with the expected demand for this service.”



He listed the 10 centres currently available to process the applications to include Berger, Ojodu; Odogunyan, Ikorodu; Agric/Ishawo Road, Ikorodu; Worksyard, PWD, Shogunle; NCI, Gbagada; VIS Yard, Oko-Afo, Badagry; VIS Yard, Ayobo-Ipaja; Test Centre, Badagry; VIS Yard, Epe; and VIS Yard, Oko-Oba Abattoir.



Lawanson, who addressed the briefing alongside heads of government agencies and the stakeholders, said preliminary investigation revealed that the affected tanker which exploded was registered in Nasarawa Local Government, Kano State with registration number NSR 888 YC, and had changed ownership 13 times since purchase.



“It (the tanker) was manufactured in 1999 by Mack Trucks Inc at its assembly plant in Winnsboro, United States. This truck was designed as a 14,959kg (approximately 15 ton) drilling rig with low bed, but it was converted in Nigeria from a drilling rig to fuel tank carrier to carry 30 tonnes.


“From this preliminary investigation, the truck should not have been loaded to the weight of 30 tonnes, which is twice its pulling capacity,” the Commissioner said, adding that further investigation into the current ownership of the tanker and other related details were progressing.


On suggestion of restriction of operation of tankers to certain hours, the Commissioner said having critically examined the issue especially considering the fact that imported petroleum products are pumped from import jetties at Atlas Cove through pipelines to Ejigbo Depots in Lagos, Mosimi (Ogun), Ibadan (Oyo), Ilorin (Kwara) and Ore (Ondo), and due to pipeline vandalism, any restriction of such would undermine supplies and threaten the wellbeing of the Nigerian economy since there is high demand for petroleum products across the country.


“This position has also been canvassed by the authorities in charge of the distribution of petroleum products in the consultations which followed the incident and at a time of great expectations for our economy to fully bounce back from recession, we believe that ensuring unhindered supply of petroleum products is indeed a patriotic contribution by Lagos State to the nation’s economic survival,” Lawanson said.


He, however, disclosed that the State Government was already exploring alternative modes of transportation of petroleum products to separate passenger traffic from cargo movements within the metropolis in the interest of the public safety and order.



He also said that government, in partnership with all the stakeholders, would set up joint-enforcement of the operating laws, while barriers would be installed on bridges in Lagos to prevent articulated trucks including Ojuelegba, Mobolaji Bank Anthony, Ekodeso, Abule-Egba, Lekki-Ajah, among others.



Giving update on the accident, Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr Seye Oladejo said out of the four injured persons that were taken away from the scene, one unfortunately died while government is taking full responsibility for the treatment of others.   



He particularly denied allegations that some victims were rejected by the General Hospital in Surulere, saying that the victims were only taken to LASUTH, Ikeja and Burns and Trauma Centre in Gbagada.



“When you have such incident of that magnitude, as part of our training as emergency responders, we need to be very careful the way we handle our communication so that we don’t raise unnecessary alarm. It is important for members of the public to remain calm while we get all our acts together, otherwise we would also be asking for another emergency.


“Altogether, nine people passed on at the incident and they were all burnt beyond recognition. We have set up a helpline at LASEMA to try and open a communication channel with members of the public and with family members of the victims. It is important that DNA is conducted otherwise we would end up giving the wrong bodies to some families to go and inter and that would become another issue entirely.


“This kind of situation really calls for patience and understanding on the part of members of the public and most especially families of victim. As much as we sympathize and commiserate, things still have to be done professionally. As a government, we are alive to our responsibility and the major business we have is to ensure safety of lives and property and we are committed to that. We have signed up on that, you are also aware of the massive investment of the State Government on issues bothering on emergency and response,” Oladejo said.

Besides, the Commissioner dismissed insinuation alleging that the integrity of Otedola Bridge had been compromised following the incident, saying there was no iota of truth in such, while government would soon fix the damaged section of the road. 

MACRON VISIT: LAGOS ANNOUNCES TRAFFIC DIVERSION IN ALAUSA, AFRICAN SHRINE AXIS

AgegePulse Magazine

Ahead of the historic visit of the President of France, Emmanuel Macron to Lagos, the State Government on Sunday announced that there would be traffic diversion and restricted movement from 12 noon to 12 midnight on Tuesday, July 3, 2018 around the Alausa, African Shrine/Agidingbi axis.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transportation, Dr. Taiwo Salaam in a statement appealed for the understanding of residents, urging motorists to make use of alternative routes provided.

“While we regret the inconvenience that this might cause the public, especially those who live and work in the area, we appeal that you kindly bear with us during this period and make use of the alternative routes provided,”, Salaam said.

Macron is expected to be hosted by the State Government at the African Shrine on Tuesday.

OSINBAJO LAUDS NEW 12,500 JOBS CREATED THROUGH LAGOS EMPLOYMENT TRUST FUND

…Lagos, Shining Example Of What Democracy Entails, Says Ambode

 AgegePulse Magazine

Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo has commended the Lagos State Government for establishing the Employment Trust Fund (ETF) through which loans are granted to small scale businesses and people with business ideas, saying that it was particularly laudable that over 12,500 new jobs were created within the first six months of the scheme.

The ETF is an initiative of the State Government established by the administration of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode through which a total of N25billion is earmarked to be disbursed within four years to empower business owners with capital to revive moribund ventures, boost trade and as well help to start new ventures.


Speaking while delivering a keynote address at the Special Parliamentary Session to mark the third anniversary of the 8th Assembly of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Osinbajo said the ETF, which was created in 2016, was an excellent example of how State Governments could intervene in creating opportunities for small businesses.


“At this point, I want to mention that the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund which was established in 2016 is an excellent example of State intervention in creating opportunities for small businesses.


“As of May 2018, 7000 loans totaling about N5billion have already been given out and 12,500 jobs were created even within the first six months of its operation.


“This is a very important initiative of the State Government and we think that it is important because it understands and addresses the concern of an important segment of our society – the young bright minds that require some capital to multiply their thoughts and trade,” Osinbajo said.


He said as part of measures to address poverty in the country, the Federal Government was already working on a scheme relating to the ETF through which loans would be given to small traders, adding that the initiative would commence in July.


“In the area of job creation, our party - the All Progressives Congress (APC) realized that we simply have to adopt a bottom-up economic model one where government directly intervenes by massive social investment programme in matters of poverty and this sort of programme addresses youth, especially graduate employment and credit to small businesses but especially credit to the smallest businesses like the one-table trader, the bread or plantain seller and so on. This is the largest segment of our working population.


“The smallest traders or petty traders, their inventory is usually not more than between N5000 and N10,000 but they are an important part of the value chain of goods that they sell. They are the ones who sell the single sachet of soap, sugar, spices and so on for the largest numbers of our people but they are forgotten and ignored in the economic plans and budget and they are considered too unhealthy or too risky for micro credit loans,” the Vice Preside said.


While alluding to Nigeria’s high poverty index, Osinbajo said the neglect of the smallest traders had contributed to the figures, but that the Federal Government was set to take care of people in such category by expanding the micro credit scheme to them.


“One of the reasons why our poverty figures are high is because of our large informal sector consisting of the petty traders whose income does not fit into the extreme poverty bracket but they are counted in a number because there is no way of tracking them up and right now, the plan of the Federal Government is to expand our micro credit programme to give smaller credit to this group.


“Eventually, they will open bank accounts under what we call Government Savings Account (GSA) and by giving credit to them, they can replenish and increase their inventories and give them a stronger chance to earn more while they also service the value chain that they are part of, and more importantly is that we bring them into the formal sector where they have access to government and private credit and we thereby lift more people permanently out of poverty.


“This is an important part of the Economic Growth Plan and we believe that by next month July, we should begin the disbursement of smallest micro credit – giving micro credit to the bottom of the pyramid,” Osinbajo said, adding that government was already working with major banks, telecommunication firms and payment companies.


In the area of youth employment, the Vice President aside the 200,000 graduates that have been engaged through the N-Power scheme, another 300,000 would be engaged by July, making the initiative the largest post-tertiary job programme in Africa.


Earlier in his remarks, Governor Ambode said it was gratifying that the three arms of government in Lagos have always worked together to show good example of promoting the tenets of democracy and what growth and development should be.


“The three arms of government in Lagos State have continually strived to ensure that we uphold the tenets of democracy and also create a clear example of what development and growth should be.



“We stand today as the shining example of what democracy should be and what actually development and growth should be and we are excited that in that collaboration we would take Lagos and also Nigeria to the rightful place it belongs,” Governor Ambode said.



SIGNED HABIB ARUNA

$322m Abacha loot: Cash transfers to poor homes

The Federal Government says it will commence disbursement of the recovered 322 million dollars Abacha loot through Conditional Cash Transfers (CCT) to 302,000 poor households in 19 states in July.

Mr Tukur Rumar, of the National Cash Transfer Office (NTCO), said this at a roundtable on assets recovery organised by the Swiss Embassy on Thursday, in Abuja.

The event was organised to intimate citizens and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on the efforts both nations were making on asset recovery after the Post-Global Forum on Assets Recovery (GFAR) held in Washington D.C. in Dec. 2017.

At the forum, Nigeria made commendable commitments on beneficial ownership, tax transparency, asset recovery, transparency management of recovered funds and payments to victims of corruption.

The states are: Niger, Kogi, Ekiti, Osun, Oyo, Kwara, Cross River, Bauchi, Gombe, Jigawa, Benue, Taraba, Adamawa, Kano, Katsina, Kaduna, Plateau, Nasarrawa, Anambra and Internally Displaced Camps (IDPs) in Borno.

According to Rumar, the benefiting households will receive N5,000 monthly and are derived from the National Social Register (NSR) that the 19 states are already on.

He said the programme was designed to also train beneficiaries on livelihood skills, social skills and other programmes that would change their lives completely.

Rumar, however, said that NCTO had been making payments to the 46,000 poor and vulnerable households across the 19 states since Dec. 2016, adding that the number had increased to 290,000.

Mr Iorwa Apera, the National Coordinator, National Social Safety Net Coordinating Office (NASSCO), said 503,055 households were already on the NSR register from the 19 states, adding that by July, there would be a social register for all the states of the federation.

He said that of the Abacha loot, about 302,000 poor homes across the 19 states would be mined by the NCTO to begin to receive the Abacha loot.

Apera told the participants that the Federal Government would begin with those states, because they had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NASSCO to put in place certain infrastructure to empower the national register.

“Some of the states delayed, but the other ones were quick enough to set up infrastructure that allowed us to start work there, but all the states are now on board as they have set up their state operating offices and donated office equipment to us.

“As states come on board, we enroll and so they extend to the beneficiary register, and presently we are generating data in all the states now,’’ he said.

Mrs Linda Ekeator of the office of the Special Adviser to the President on Social Investment said the Abacha loot was invested in the social investment programme, because it was a programme that was already supported by the World Bank.

She said that before the money was returned to Nigeria, there was an agreement with the Swiss government that it should be used for alleviating poverty and this was to be done with the supervision of the World Bank.

The Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Eric Mayoraz said the 722 million dollars of the Abacha family money that was hidden in Switzerland was fully repatriated in 2005.

He also said that the 322 million dollars that was repatriated in Dec. 2017, was money that was frozen by the Swiss Attorney-General, but was not domiciled in Switzerland, but in other countries, mainly Luxembourg.

He, however, said measures had been put in place to ensure that Swiss banks were not used to hide stolen funds from other countries.

“For possible new cases, the Swiss legislation has fundamentally changed.

“The law in Switzerland does not allow bank secrecy anymore, and all banks and financial institutions have a due diligence duty to ask everyone coming with money where it is coming from.

“That does not mean that there are no illegal or stolen assets now in Switzerland, but then there is another instrument I signed myself with the Nigerian Ministry of Justice and Switzerland two years ago on mutual legal assistance and this is for new cases.

“Now, this agreement with our own Ministry of Justice and Nigeria is that there will be direct communication and exchange on mutual legal request and we are really collaborating with EFCC and other agencies in Nigeria,’’ Mayoraz.

The Executive Director, ANEEJ, Rev. David Ugolor, said for Nigerian citizens to not keep spreading rumours about the whereabouts of recovered loots, the government must be transparent in all the processes.

He also said that CSOs should be given access to the social register to enable it monitor properly whether or not the beneficiaries received what was due to them.

INEC Releases 2019 Election Timetable For Party Primaries:

AgegePulse Magazine

• COLLECTION OF FORMS FOR POLITICAL PARTIES FOR ALL ELECTIONS TO BE ISSUED TO CANDIDATES
*17TH AUGUST TO 24TH AUGUST 2018.*

• CONDUCT OF PARTY PRIMARIES INCLUDING RESOLUTION OF DISPUTE ARISING FROM PRIMARIES.
 *18TH AUGUST ENDS 07TH OCTOBER 2018.*

• COMMENCEMENT OF CAMPAIGN BY POLITICAL PARTIES FOR PRESIDENTIAL AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
  *18TH NOVEMBER 2018*

• COMMENCEMENT OF CAMPAIGN BY POLITICAL PARTIES FOR GOVERNORSHIP AND STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
*01ST DECEMBER 2018.*

• LAST DAY OF SUBMISSION OF FORMS CF001 AND CF002 AT INEC HQ (FOR ALL ELECTIONS)
PRESIDENTIAL AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
*18TH OCTOBER 2018.*

• GOVERNORSHIP AND STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
*02ND NOVEMBER 2018.*

• PUBLICATIONS OF PERSONAL PARTICULARS OF CANDIDATES (CF001)
PRESIDENTIAL AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
*25TH OCTOBER 2018*

• GOVERNORSHIP AND STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
*09TH NOVEMBER 2018.*

• LAST DAY OF WITHDRAWAL BY CANDIDATES/REPLACEMENT BY POLITICAL PARTIES.
PRESIDENTIAL AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
*17TH NOVEMBER 2018*

• GOVERNORSHIP AND STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
*01ST DECEMBER 2018.*

• LAST DAY OF SUBMISSION OF NOMINATION FORMS BY POLITICAL PARTIES.
PRESIDENTIAL AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
*03RD DECEMBER 2018*

• GOVERNORSHIP AND STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
*17TH DECEMBER 2018.*

• SUBMISSION OF NAMES OF PARTY AGENTS FOR ELECTION TO ELECTORIAL OFFICERS OF THE LOCAL GOVT AREAS.
PRESIDENTIAL AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
*01ST FEBRUARY 2019*

• GOVERNORSHIP AND STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
 *16TH FEBRUARY 2019.*

• LAST DAY OF CAMPAIGN.
PRESIDENTIAL AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
  *14TH FEBRUARY 2019*

• GOVERNORSHIP AND STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
*28TH  FEBRUARY 2109.*

• DATE OF ELECTIONS.
PRESIDENTIAL AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
*16TH FEBRUARY 2019*

• GOVERNORSHIP AND STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
*28TH FEBRUARY 2019.*

 • INEC releases 2019 election time table, fixes party Primaries for August 18 2018 (for presidential and national assembly elections) and Oct

OSHODI TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE: LAGOS ANNOUNCES CLOSURE OF FLYOVER TO FIX SKYWALK BRIDGE

…To Close Traffic from 10:00pm Sunday, July 1 To 5:00am Monday, July 2, 2018

Agege Pulse Magazine

The Lagos State Government on Friday said there would be partial restriction of movement on Oshodi flyover to enable it advance the ongoing construction of the Oshodi Transport Interchange.

This is with effect from 10:00pm Sunday, July 1st to 5:00am Monday, July 2nd, 2018.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Ade Akinsanya, the Government said construction work at the Oshodi Transport Interchange had entered critical stage and the contractor Messer Planet Projects Limited would be hoisting heavy structural steel trusses for the assembly of the Skywalk Bridge.

Men of LASTMA, FRSC, Police, LAGESC, VIO, etc. would be on ground to manage traffic and provide safety and security support during the 7-hour night operation.

The Skywalk Bridge, the longest free standing pedestrian bridge in Nigeria at 53.4 metres long and six metres wide, would link Terminal One and Two buildings at the Oshodi Transport Interchange.

The flyover would be completely closed in the direction of Anthony to the Airport, while the motorists (in both directions) would now make use of the second carriageway, that is, the one in the direction from Airport to Oshodi to Anthony.

He said motorists coming from Anthony can either access Town Planning Way through Ikorodu Road or Apapa Oworonshoki Expressway and then turn to Ilupeju Industrial Avenue then link Agege Motor Road via Ilupeju bypass and make a U-turn at Bolade and turn to Apapa Oworonshoki Expressway.

“For motorists coming from Isolo/Airport Road, you can enter the service lane at Charity and turn to Agege Motor Road at Oshodi and then link Ilupeju Industrial Avenue via Ilupeju Bypass and then turn to Town Planning Way to link up Apapa-Oworonshoki Expressway,” the Commissioner said.

Besides, Akinsanya added that in the days and weeks ahead, there would also be closure on some certain section of roads within the axis to vehicular and human traffic, just as he solicited the cooperation and support of all road users plying the corridor to observe all the precaution signs on the road.

“We encourage individuals and groups that may have cause to use the network of roads and bridges passing through, or linking Oshodi and environ, to be alert to disruptions and danger associated with movement of heavy steel and equipment,” he said.

He added that the State Government has also put in place effective traffic management strategies to manage traffic situation during the period of closure.

He said the notice of restriction of the road became expedient to enlighten motorists and other road users to utilize alternative routes to avoid delay as well as obey traffic officers deployed on the road to ease movement.

Akinsanya also thanked road users and motorists for their support, patience and understanding since the commencement of the project, assuring that on completion it would be an iconic facility that would change the face of Lagos forever.

SIGNED

SINA THORPE

DEPUTY DIRECTOR, PUBLIC AFFAIRS

MINISTRY OF WORKS &

AMBODE VISITS TANKER ACCIDENT SCENE, COMMENDS EMERGENCY RESPONDERS

....Thanks Road Users For Patience, Commiserates With Victims’ Families

 AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday evening visited the scene of the tanker explosion which occurred on Otedola Bridge inward Ojodu Berger along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, describing the incident as sad and unfortunate.


The incident, which occurred at about 5pm, was said to have left over 50 vehicles burnt and nine people dead.

Governor Ambode, who visited the scene at about 9:30pm where he was briefed by Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr Seye Oladejo, among other emergency response agencies, particularly commiserated with the families of the victims and those who lost their properties to the incident.


Addressing journalists at the scene after assessing the situation, Governor Ambode also directed the emergency responders and relevant government agencies to ensure the immediate removal of all the burnt vehicles from the road so as to open it up again for traffic.


“This is quite unfortunate; we are actually on the spot to see what is happening here and like most people must have been aware, this is a tanker that was carrying 33,000 litres of PMS attempting to climb on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway towards the Kara Bridge and unfortunately maybe lost control and then spilled almost all the 33,000 litres on the road and there was an explosion which caught up with a lot of vehicles.



“At the last count, we have about 50 vehicles burnt and nine bodies also recovered from the scene. In all of this, I am happy that our response team has been up and running. The response time to this part particular incident was less than three minutes and if not for that, a whole lot of things would have really gone wrong.



“I want to praise all our agencies – the Fire Service, the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and also the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) Response Unit. This is what we have been saying about investing in some of these infrastructure and equipment. Nobody knows when this kind of incident will happen next but the most important thing is that our response time should be up and running and be able to save lives,” the Governor said.


Governor Ambode said though lives were lost to the unfortunate incident, but that he would take solace in the fact that more lives were saved, just as he admonished residents to always give access to emergency responders during such incidents. 



“I want to commiserate with all the families of those that have lost their lives. We never wish for incidents like this but again we take solace in the fact that we were able to save more lives. Right now, we would make sure that this traffic is cleared immediately within 30 minutes to free the major highway because we have to continue to use it.


“I also want to appeal to Lagosians that we don’t like to see onlookers; there is a need to always give way for our first responders and all our agencies to save lives quickly and that is the whole essence of having the Response Unit,” he said.


While commending the people for their patience, the Governor assured that the State Government would continue to put measures in place to mitigate such incidents in future.


“I want to also thank the people for being patience with us. We will continue to do our best and ensure that we mitigate things of this nature in future,” Governor Ambode  said".

LAGOS INFERNO: SITUATION REPORT OF THE TANKER INCIDENT ON OTEDOLA BRIDGE INWARD BERGER

AgegePulse Magazine

On getting to the scene of the incident it was discovered that a Mack  tanker truck loaded with  33 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) moving inward Berger at about 5:23pm, fell and spilled its content on the road resulting into fire outbreak. Further investigation by the Lasema Response Team.

Unfortunately 9 bodies were confirmed dead and recovered from the scene (8 adults and 1 minor) and 4 persons sustain various degrees of injuries and taken to the hospital. A total number of  54 vehicles were completely burnt as a result of the inferno.

The Agency's LASEMA Response Team, men of Lagos State Fire Service, LRU fire, LSNC, NSCDC, FRSC, LASAMBUS, LASTMA, SEHMU, LSPWC and Nigeria Police Force from Alausa and Isheri Division were the responders present at the scene. Effort on going to recover all burnt vehicles off the road. Recovery operations ongoing.

General Manager LASEMA
Mr. Adesina Tiamiyu

Agege LG Agege Pulse

Exclusive: How I Became Responsible Through Tailoring- Agege Legislative Arm Leader, Anigbajumo Reveals

…Says Egunjobi  a fantastic individual that welcomes fresh ideas

AgegePulse Magazine

One of the greatest surprises of the last council election in Agege was the emergence of Anigbajumo Kolawole Muyideen as the Leader of Agege Local Government Legislative Arm. Many were of the opinion that he's the least person that should occupy such tasking position. In fact, some of his political oppositions rumoured that he can not confidently express himself in English Language talk of holding such position. Naturally, politics becomes interesting when opposition camp have lacuna to explore the weakness of another camp. However, all these were proven wrong when AgegePulse had a chat with him in his office recently. The father of one whose drive for leadership position engineered his foray into active politics speaks on several topics of interest ranging from politics, social and personal life. Excerpts

For the sake of those who know next to nothing about you, please tell us about you.


My name is Kola Anigbajumo Muyideen, Leader of Agege Legislative Arm. I was born into the family of Mr. & Mrs. Anigbajumo. I grew up at Ibido Street. I attended Orimolade Primary School, but due to some circumstances, I could not graduate from that school. I later enrolled into Alimosho Primary School. I attended three secondary schools names Yewa High School, Dairy Farm, Agege and Iqrah Comprehensive High School, Ijaiye where I finally sat my WAEC. I had my tertiary education at Lagos State Polytechnic, where I obtained a Higher National Degree, HND in Business Administration. Then, I served my fatherland at Odogbolu High School in Ayepe, Ogun State. Most importantly, during secondary school days, I had trained as a tailor which I never knew that will be my source of living. My education was sponsored by God and with the help of my tailoring; I continued with the tailoring before I secured a teaching job here in Agege local government vocational center in 2006 with a stipends aiming at imparting knowledge to young ones. I've been doing that for over ten years even while I was in school.

From tailoring to teaching, now that you are an elected politician, how has life being as leader of the legislative arm?

It has been so challenging, being a first timer, and emerging as the leader of the house. I had no experience. I've not been appointed into any political office before. This is the first time, but with the ability to learn fast and the will to learn more through positive consultation, it is getting easier gradually. However, I must give thanks to God and to Hon. Oluyinka Ogundimu for his support and readiness to ease my pressure whenever I seek knowledge from him.

During the electioneering process, did you envisage becoming leader of the house?

To be sincere, I never envisaged it but I had mind in other positions like deputy leader and majority leader due to my level of education and exposure.

Since your emergence as the leader of Agege LGA Legislative Arm of and being the youngest ever in the history of Agege and Lagos, what have you done differently in the house?

It is not how far but how well. Getting to this house, there was nothing on ground from our predecessors, even the bye-laws that was seen in place was last touched in 2006. We have put some bye-laws that we want to work on in place. We had to do some findings so that whenever we want to put things in place, we would put things that will be rewarding and beneficial to our people.. We have ensured that whatever we push forward is not condemned.

Since you assume office, has there been any instance whereby legislative arm was in disagreement with the executives?

Of course there is no way we won't be having some disagreements at times but when we work in collaboration with the binding Constitution, we won't have any problem with the executives. More so, the Executive Chairman of Agege, Alhaji Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi has been a fantastic individual who welcomes any idea that can develop the people of Agege. Till date, we have not had any major misunderstanding.

Do you think the incumbent chairman of Agege has the ability to make Agege better than the way he met it?

As we all know that the Executive Chairman of Agege Local Government is also a youth. We are the first set of legislative arm in the history of Lagos State that passes vote of confidence on our executive chairman. We were questioned, we were attacked that within a couple of two months. Little did they know what we know about him. On assumption into office, the first thing he did was to make office conducive for everybody. From the legislators, to the management staff, to his personal office and to every other offices under the council. It gave all off us sense of belonging because when you have a conducive condition to work, creative and developmental ideas will flow. Also,what really impresses us was when we went for budget retreat; we asked the civil servants if the budget retreat is the same as the one they have been doing in the past? They all said no adding that this has been the most tasking, educating and interesting one ever. From that, I'm able to say the chairman of Agege local government is vibrant, he knows what he is doing, and I think he can even do more than expected.


What will the house do  to ensure the budget is fully implemented when passed into law?

The implementation of budget is due to the availability of resources. When the present administration was clamoring on the increment in the internal generated revenue, it's to achieve this purpose. However, If we block the leakages in government, we can assure you we will actualize our plans as a government.

How do you unwind?

You know politics at the community level is a round the clock job because of closeness to the community. Since our swearing-in, I am always in office from Monday to Friday. Also, the weekend that is meant for relaxation is now used for one invited social event or the other. I will probably consider my relaxation regime later.

What prompted you into politics?

School politics prompted me into active politics. During my primary school days, I clamoured for the position of gate prefect, I didn't want any other post in school aside that. When I was in secondary school too, I vied for the same post. When I got to higher institution, I have built interest in leadership position and I was voted as the Welfare Director, that was during National Diploma programme. During HND, I was voted Financial Secretary of my department. Also, during NYSC, I was voted the CLO after a tooth and nail fight with other interested corps members. After my schooling days, I decided not to just stop at school politics. I went to one of my political father telling him my intention to join active politics. He advice and guided me on what to do and here I am today. I will say it's my desire for leadership positions that spurred me into politics.

What will you say is your greatest regret in life till date?

The only thing I'm regretting is that my father is not alive today because I told him to let me be when I was young. I left home since year 2000, and I told him to leave me alone. But now he is no more, when everything is booming. It saddens me, but my mother is alive, in fact, she is one of the most successful businesswomen in Agege. I am taking respite in her but I miss my dad a lot.

LAGOS GOES TOUGH ON DRUG ABUSE, PLANS 1000-MAN WALK AGAINST SCOURGE

…Women Strategically Positioned To Stop Teenage Rape, Pregnancy- Ambode's Wife

 Agege Pulse Magazine

In a bid to step up its campaign against all forms of drug abuse, the Lagos State Government on Tuesday said it has concluded plans to stage a 1000-man walk against the scourge and raise awareness on its inherent danger especially among youths.

Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Agboola Dabiri who disclosed this while addressing journalists at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa, Ikeja, ahead of the launch of a rigorous and renewed campaign under the acronym, Lagos State Kicks against Drug Abuse (LASKADA), said the Government was leaving no stone unturned in its effort to dissuade youths who are prime victims of the practice.

According to the Commissioner, the campaign will adopt a tripod approach including events, engagements with stakeholders and awareness campaign, adding that it would be flagged off by a 1000 man symbolic walk against drug abuse in the State.

He said the walk, which will hold on Thursday, June 21, would commence from Ikeja Bus Stop- under the bridge and would terminate at the Blue Roof, LTV, Agidingbi, where the official launch of LASKADA would take place.

He said participants at the walk will include students, members of voluntary organizations, sports men and women, members of Nongovernmental organisations, local government and youth representatives, local youth council representatives, faith based organisations, government functionaries, among others.

“What we want to do on Thursday is to launch this campaign and show that we are ready for war against all forms of drug abuse. Once we launch out, we are going to have series of activities on various platforms and we will employ every avenue to ensure that the campaign gets to the nook and cranny in the State,” he said.

Dabiri added that the campaign will also involve a stakeholders’ sensitization session to deliberate on the menace and proffer likely intervention to tackle the issue holistically.

“The stakeholders will include parents, youths, professional bodies include Pharmacists, NDLEA, psychiatrists, traditional medicine board, patent medicine sellers, NURTW, Tricycle and okada riders unions and a communiqué will be issued at the end of the session.

He said the campaign train will also move to primary, secondary and higher institutions as well as to the communities adding that it would be implemented in collaboration with the Lagos State Youth Ambassadors, Lagos State Youth Parliament and NGOs in their immediate community.

Besides, the Commissioner said that mosque, churches and faith based organization will be implored to dedicate a day to enlighten worshippers on drug abuse and canvass support for the fight against the menace.

“The youth group is the largest population in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos State and this segment is considered the most vulnerable group as far as drug and alcohol issues are concerned. Thus, their health and optimal development is critical to national development agenda and deserves significant attention. Drug abuse is real and we should not fold our arms and watch the scourge continue, partner with us and lets all say “No to Drug Abuse”, Dabiri said.

In a related development, Wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs Bolanle Ambode said women must use their strategic position as builders of the home-front to adequately fortify their children and wards with right virtuous to stem the tide of rape and teenage pregnancy in the society.

Speaking at a special Lagos Women Forum put together by her office held at Police College in Ikeja, the wife of the Governor said as coordinators of the family unit, women have the responsibility to bring up their children in most decent ways and be good examples to them.



According to her, “We as women have a great role to play in combating the social evils of rape and teenage pregnancy. Our natural role as mothers and coordinators of the family unit, imposes responsibilities on us, to bring up the boy and the girl child in the most decent way, to stem the tide of rape and teenage pregnancy in our society.”


She said young girls who suffer abuse and become pregnant stand the risk of medical complications, stressing however that conscious effort must be made in their upbringing to achieve the desired results including early enrolment in school, sound moral lessons and exposure to the ways and things of God.



Besides, Mrs Ambode expressed concern over the disturbing trend of domestic violence against women which sometimes result in deaths, saying it was time for women to come together and jointly speak out against the menace.



“By publicly speaking out against domestic violence, together we can challenge attitudes that breed violence in the homes and everywhere. We must insist that domestic violence is a social crimes and not acceptable in our society. That is why we have brought seasoned speakers, to talk to us on issues of social menace, and our expected roles as mothers and home builders.



In her keynote address, Lagos State Deputy Governor, Mrs Idiat Adebule commended the wife of the Governor for the initiative to gather women together for the purpose of enhancing their welfare and health, saying the strategic importance of women in the society could not be overemphasized.



She said women should no longer be stereotyped into silence but rather become vocal advocates for improved health delivery system and social justice, adding that the womenfolk also have the responsibility of investing and increasing access of more girls and women to good health, quality education, and as well ensuring that laws respect and ensure the rights of women are enforced. 



The Deputy Governor, who is also overseeing the Ministry of Education, said as part of efforts to protect the future of girls who are abused, the State Government recently established a special school for people in such category to have another opportunity to be educated.



“We have equally established the alternative school for the girls who, in the course of their lifetime, get pregnant and could not continue their education. Our government has provided that particular school for them to have a second chance in life,” Adebule said.



SIGNED: HABIB ARUNA

LASG’s workers to get gratuity 3 months after retirement

AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State Government is to introduce an efficient pension scheme for its workforce , an official said on Sunday.

Under the new regime , retirees will be paid their gratuity ( lump sum) within three months after retirement .

The Director -General , Lagos State Pension Commission ( LASPEC) , Mrs Folashade Onanuga , told the News Agency of Nigeria ( NAN ) that the administration would soon unveil the new regime.

“Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode is working towards a three -month gratuity collection regime.

“Our amiable governor is working towards a regime that all pensioners will be able to access their gratuities within three months after retirement , ” she said.a

Onanuga also said that the governor was committed to the welfare of retirees as he had cleared the backlog of pensions.

She said : “Gov. Ambode is fully committed to retirees ’ welfare as he is working towards clearing pension backlog the administration inherited under the old pension scheme known as Defined Benefit Scheme ( DBS ) before the Contributory Pension Scheme ( CPS ) was introduced in 2004.

“He has cleared the pension backlog up till 2015."*

About N37 billion has been released by Gov. Ambode for 9 , 045 retirees since he assumed office.

The director-general , however , has advised retiring workers in the employ of the state government to study the two options available to them at retirement carefully before taking decisions .

According to her , the two options are Programmed Withdrawal and Annuity.

“The retirement options should be studied carefully before signing any deal with Pension Fund Administrators ( PFAs) .’’

AOnanuga , who described some PFAs as hookwinkers, said they had been deceiving retiring employees into taking wrong decision for their own selfish reasons.

“There are still pension ` fraudsters ’ parading themselves as PFAs and the Lagos State Government will put concrete measures in place to ensure that its retirees do not fall victims.

“It is important to note that pension fraudsters are still out there , retirees must be vigilant and courageous not to sign negative deals ; be wise , ’’ Onanuga warned.

According to her , the commission in order to guide prospective retirees in the state public service between July and December also held a seminar on retirement benefits and documentation on June 8.

“The commission ensured that the 1 , 200 workers slated for retirement between July and December participated."

Onanuga emphasised that it was the responsibility of the prospective retirees to study and master the features.

She said, for instance, a retiring employee ought to have signed up a PFA and his or her monthly contributions remitted into his or her Retirement Saving Account ( RSA).

“Lagos State Government approved 13 PFAs for its workers , among them are AIICO Pension Managers , ARM Pensions, Leadway Pensure PFA and Nigerian Life and Provident Company ( NLPC )

NAN

June 12: Lagos To Unveil New MKO Abiola’s Statue Tomorrow

According to a reliable source, the Lagos State Government has concluded plans to unveil the refurbished statue of the late Chief Moshood Kasimawo Olawale Abiola, MKO Abiola tomorrow.

This is to commemorate the celebration of June 12 anniversary.

Recall LASG had last week, declared tomorrow Tuesday June 12, 2018 as public holiday to mark the historic day.

Lagos State Hafsat Abiola #politics #freedom #democracy Agege Pulse Agege Talents Agege LG Agege LG Akinwunmi Ambode

Wike Planning To Pay 6 Months Salary Arrears Owed Ekiti Workers – APC

AgegePulse

The Rivers State Chapter of All Progressives Congress, APC, says Governor Nyesom Wike has turned himself into a “Father Christmas” who shares money at will”, just as the party expressed worry over what it described as the Governor’s penchant for alleged misappropriation of Public funds.

The APC added that it has confirmed that Governor Nyesom Wike intends to clear salaries owed to Civil Servants in Ekiti state.

APC in a statement obtained by DAILY POST and signed by its spokesperson, Chris Finebone claimed that governor Wike, has concluded plans to pay off six months’ salary arrears the government of Ekiti State is owing to its workers ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in that state.

Finebone says the planned clearance of salaries owed by Fayose comes against a decaying secretariat complex where Rivers State civil servants endure untold inconveniences every working day.

According to the statement, “Indeed, it comes against the suffering of pensioners owed several months of gratuity and pension. Paradoxically, even political appointees of Gov. Wike are enduring untold hardship, suffering and smiling except for the select cabal popularly referred to as Cardinals.

“The APC recalls that after the defeat of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the 2015 presidential elections, Gov. Nyesom Wike effectively took over control of the party nationally and has since been spending billions of naira belonging to Rivers taxpayers to sustain the PDP.

“Sadly, we recall that Gov. Wike spent several billions of naira to hold an ill-fated national convention of the party in Port Harcourt in May 2016. Afterwards, Wike single-handedly sustained the PDP with billions of naira belonging to Rivers people throughout the period the party was under the leadership of the Markarfi-led caretaker committee.

“Gov. Wike it was who used the resources of Rivers State to fund the protracted legal tussle between the caretaker committee and its factional group led by Senator Ali Modu Sheriff.

“Following the victory of the Makarfi-led caretaker committee at the Supreme Court, Gov. Wike, again, bankrolled the national convention of the party that followed in 2017 with Rivers State commonwealth.

“This culminated in Wike decimating and silencing the South-West and other leaders in PDP to successfully capture the national structure of PDP by installing his acolyte and stooge, Prince Uche Secondus as the party’s national chairman.

“Quite sadly, we note that the decision of Gov. Wike to pay outstanding six months salaries owed to Ekiti State civil servants is coming as part of Wike’s inordinate desire to maintain his position as the leading financier and national leader of PDP.

“Whereas other PDP governors are busy developing their states and bettering the standard of living of their people, Gov Wike remains consumed by the obscene and inordinate craving to continue as the little god of PDP.

“While no one begrudges him the pursuit of his vane glory, the bitter truth is that Gov Wike is fritting away resources that should be channelled at bettering a lot of the ordinary Rivers people.

“We find it hard to believe that a governor that came into office and immediately discontinued and returned Rivers youths on overseas scholarship on account of lack of funds, finds it convenient to play father Christmas for purely political reasons.

We ask: why is it that other PDP governors of equally oil-rich Akwa Ibom and the Delta States are not throwing the commonwealth of their people at sustaining and controlling the PDP?

“Again, we recall that in his bid to take advantage of the killings in Benue State some months ago, Gov. Wike doled out N500m to Benue State with the sole aim of luring Governor Ortom to join the PDP.

“The APC calls on Rivers people to protest the decision of Gov. Nyesom Wike to, once again, embark on this senseless and atrocious decision to spend billions of naira belonging to Rivers people to pay six months outstanding salaries of Ekiti State civil servants while the workers and people of Rivers State are suffering poverty, indignities and penury.”

Exclusive: Why Oracle Directed Our Forefathers To Settle In Orile-Agege - - Alaige of Orile Agege, HRM, Oba Ambaliu Agbedeyi

...Says Gov. Ambode's Fulfilling Age-long Prophecies In Orile Agege

Ask the people of Orile Agege, they will say it has never been rosy for the community as it is now. As much as more needed to be done in terms of infrastructure and empowerment, within six years of the installation of His Royal Majesty, Ambaliu Akeem Agbedeyi, the Alaige of Orile Agege Kingdom, the erstwhile ancient community has been witnessing steady growths and developments. Thanks to the mutual relationship that exists between the custodian of tradition and political figures in the area. Shortly after witnessing the completion of Jubilee bridge at Abule Egba, some major roads in Orile Agege have been wearing new looks. In this exclusive interview with Agege Pulse, the soft spoken Alaige of Orile Agege opens up on several issues bothering on culture, economy, politics and the resolve to host newly crown Aare Ona Kankafo of Yoruba Land in Orile Agege for Odun Aje festival. Excerpt:

Introduction
My name is Ambaliu Akeem Agbedeyi, the Alaige of Orile Agege Kingdom.

How long have you been on the throne sir?
Its about six years

What are the challenges you faced when you were about to be the king?

There is no one who wants to be the king without him faced some challenges, I had no challenge from my family. It used to be three families which rotate the kingship. It was Komolafe before me. Salami Adegbeye was the first king when he enthroned from Baale. Orisanmi became king after him, then it moved to Komolafe before it became my family's (Agbedeyi) turn again. Other families rose against Agbedeyi family claiming that we are not entitled to kingship. We had to go to kingship secretariat to resolve the grievance. My father, late Aminu Agbedeyi ought to be the next king, but he became very old which he can't go out again. My father called me and said I will the next king. I initially went against it because I was a full celestial evangelist. If I have to be the king, I knew I will have to do with tradition which I never wanted to.  I went to my church for advice, I was supported with prayers and warned me to be conscious of my actions as a traditionalist.

My father was never happy with my decision before I later succumbed. In fact, prior to my acceptance, I was faced with many personal life threatening issues. One of them was a terrible accident which almost claimed my life before I became the king. I thank God I was able to overcome those challenges.

How do you manage the demands of traditional doctrines as a king with your Christianity belief?

I deal tactically with the three prominent religions in my kingdom. Someone as a king will definitely deal with all religions in his capacity. When it's time for Islamic, traditional or Christianity festivals, I joined them wholeheartedly. I believe everybody owns the king, hence no discrimination.
Kindly tell us brief history of Orile-Agege.

We are the founder of Agege from Isheri while we hailed from Ile-ife. When we got to Isheri, some went to Ido and Iru. From Iru, our forefather came back to Erekusu.  Efunmikan was one of our forefather's son. Efunmikan experienced still birth. He was a hunter. He made consultations and oracle told him to hunt down to Orile before he could bore offspring. Oracle also prophesized that the land would be a fertile land of honour and greatness. Honestly, that's why I'm not worried when all these infrastructural and economic developments are being carried out by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and others. It's an age-long prophesy that Orile Agege would be great and haven for all. He continued the hunting profession in which he sold his hunted animals to Eko. History has it that When he got to Orile, he gave birth to Oshimoro. Oshimoro gave birth to Ogunshi. Ogunshi gave birth to Agbedeyi who later gave birth to Salami and Gbangudu. Gbangudu gave birth to Aminu Agbedeyi Gbangudu who was my own father.

Efunmikan likes dancing in which he was named Ayogesibadi. Ayogesibadi is transformed to Ayege. Hausa people came on board due to the business and the kind of plantations on the Orile land. We had like cocoa, kolanut, coffee and palm kennel plantations. Due to the strength of the Hausas, they were employed to work on our plantations. Along the line, they began to settle down in Orile, all goods were brought to Orile for sales. The community began to experience development and population increment, the village extension of Orile was Agege (Now Agege LGA). Visitors came around to purchase land and started building there. The Hausas couldn't pronounce Aiyege they would rather pronounced it as Agege. That's how the name Agege came by.

What steps have you taken to make Orile-Agege better than how you met it?

There are lots of changes as I work underneath. In terms of security, before I became the king, it was obvious that security was very porous in Orile-Agege. We had issue of street robbers who robbed shops all around, the touts that cause unruly havocs in the community and many vices. All these have drastically reduced due to the disciplinary measures I put in place on assumption.

Orile Agege is blessed with top political figures in Lagos State. What has been your relationship with the No. 3 man in the State and other political leaders In Orile-Agege ?
I have good rapport with them. Our relationship is mutual. Although, I don't interfere with politics because it's different to kingship, the only thing we can do is just to support them with prayers while demanding conducive environment for our people.

How have you been able to influence the impact of government in Agege, especially having the Speaker Of Lagos State House of Assembly from Agege, Hon. Rt. Mudashir Obasa?

Obviously, government is really trying in Agege. Having Obasa, Adaranijo and Ogundimu in government has really given us a head up. I told the three of them about having a general palace here in Orile Agege because we don't have it, and they promised to make the money for the construction available. The next thing for us to get is land of about four plots. We are for it.  Also, some roads which I met as dusty roads have been tarred, thereby aiding economic development of our people. They are really trying for us. But, like Oliver Twist, we want more.

How would you rate the incumbent chairman of Orile-Agege LCDA, Hon. J.S Babatunde?

The chairman is doing his best. From work done by him, I have been able to join him to commission three roads and rehabilitation of Schools within our communities. He is also working on building three schools presently. May God continue to give him wisdom to drive Orile Agege to greatness.

How is your relationship with the Olu Agege of Agege, Oba Kamilu Oyedeji Isiba? People say you're inseparable twins, how true is that?

(Laughs…) We have very cordial relationship.

What about a day you wish never came by again?
My saddest day on earth happened to be the day I lost my first child. It was as if the world would end that day. I had watched her grew old and became a mother. She died during the delivery of her fifth child.

Apart from Aje, which deities are worshipped in Orile-Agege?
We worship many deities like Oro, Egun, Osun, Aale and others.

What can you say about the ongoing construction of the Pen Cinema fly over bridge?

Like I said earlier, our government is really trying for us in Agege and Orile Agege. It's not about the Pen Cinema bridge alone. As you can see, the Abule Egba (Jubilee) bridge has been constructed. Can you imagine the beauty and ease of vehicular movement it brought to our community? We can't wait to see the Pen Cinema bridge completed, Governor Ambode is turning Agege and Orile Agege into small London. We appreciate all our representatives too who have been making us proud in the polity.

Tell us about your educational background and kind of work you do before kingship?

I attended Ikeja Local Government School before I had the completion in Ososun, Ifo. After secondary education, I started working as a battery charger. After a while, some of my friends introduced me to iron business which I'm known with till date. I do receive contracts from people to supply iron needed on their buildings. I got more contracts because I engaged with my father on the sale of lands. After selling any land, I introduce my business to the buyers and we agree on what would be need to build their choice houses. That was what I did till I became a king.

What's your favorite food sir?
I love eating beans a lot. Also, I like taking bread fruits. 

What advice do you have for the youths sir?
Youths are the leader of tomorrow. In every occasion I go to, I always advice the youths to be of good behavior. They should stay away from bad characters like hooliganism and other social vices. The reward of vices is negativity.