AMBODE GIVES N500M GRANT TO 275 COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS TO COMPLETE PROJECTS

…Gesture Unprecedented In Nigeria, Says Lagos APC Chairman

AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday doled out N500million as grant to 275 Community Development Associations (CDAs) to enable them complete their ongoing self help projects.



Governor Ambode, who presented the grant to the CDAs at De Blue Roof, LTV, Agidingbi, said it was not in doubt that the various self help projects, ranging from community halls, street light, transformers, police post, drainage and health centres by these communities were complementing the efforts of the State and Local Government to engender growth and development.



He said his administration was totally committed to supporting CDAs in the initiation and implementation of community based development projects, adding that apart from being in line with his administration’s policy of inclusive governance, such approach would guarantee ownership of such projects by the communities.



“These projects have contributed immensely to make our communities to be more liveable for residents. I must commend all of you for the various projects you have initiated and funded from your voluntary levies and donations by members.



“I thank all of you for appreciating the fact that voluntary community effort is required to facilitate growth and development,” Governor Ambode said.



He said the decision to aid the CDAs with grant was based on the report gathered from monitoring of some of the ongoing community projects, which showed that some of the projects were on the verge of being abandoned due to paucity of funds, noting that the gesture was therefore compelling.

“Today’s occasion is historic; we are presenting financial support of N500million Grant to 275 Community Development Associations to enable them complete their various self-help projects which had been executed to an appreciable level. Let me emphasise that this will be a continuous exercise. Other deserving Community Development Associations will also be considered in the next phase of this presentation,” the Governor said.



Alluding to the fact that the gesture was the first of its kind in the State, Governor Ambode said that beyond the 275 projects being supported, all the divisions of the State have been covered.



“The message remains the same.  We are committed to good governance and inclusive leadership.  We know your efforts remain selfless to all your communities.  We are partners in governance and we will always support you.



“I congratulate the leadership and members of the CDAs that are benefitting from this support initiative. It is my expectation that all the self-help projects covered by this grant will be completed as soon as possible for the usage and benefit of residents,” he said.



The Governor also charged residents in the communities to take ownership of the projects and protect them against vandalisation and all acts that would result in the reduction of the life span of the facilities.



Earlier, State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Tunde Balogun, in his remarks, described the gesture by Governor as unprecedented in the history of Nigeria, urging community leaders and residents to make judicious use of the projects as well as prudent spending of the grants.



“What is happening today is the presentation of grants to 275 CDAs across the State. It is very awesome and unprecedented. This is the first time I’ve ever heard of such. It is unprecedented in the history of Nigeria. Please take ownership of the projects and ensure durability in your locality. This government had been constructing roads, bridges, and different projects across the states. We thank God for using Governor Ambode to change the face of Lagos for good”.



On his part, Commissioner Local Government and Community Affairs, Hon Muslim Folami, said the all inclusive governance mantra of the Governor Ambode administration had seen the increase of CDAs in the State from 2012 in 2015 to 3935 in the last three years.



Also speaking, Special Adviser to the Governor on Communities and Communications, Hon. Akeem Sulaimon, reiterated the present administration’s commitment to articulate the concept of inclusive governance, whereby all government policies, projects and programmes would be driven by the needs of various communities.



In his goodwill message, Patron General of CDAs in the State and APC Chieftain, Cardinal James Odumbaku urged the CDAs to reciprocate the gesture by the Governor at the 2019 elections in the State.



Some of the communities that benefitted from the grant include Olera CDA, Ojokoro; Anifowoshe CDA, Ikeja; Onibaba CDA, Ajeromi Ifelodun; Ogoitan Phase I CDA, Epe; Ifelodun Surulere CDA, Olorunda; Ofiran Phase 1 CDA, Ibeju Lekki; Equitable Estate CDA, Igbogbo Baiyeku; Anuoluwapo CDA, Ojota, among others.

Time For Nigeria To Broaden Export Products Beyond Oil - Ambode

...Says Export Inflow At LFZ To Hit $6Billion By 2020

…Advocates 25-Year National Policy On Export Promotion



Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday said the export inflow at the Lekki Free Zone (LFZ) in Ibeju Lekki area of the State is projected to hit over $6billion (about N2.159trillion) by 2020, saying it was time for Nigeria to develop sustainable roadmap to rev up export with particular focus on multi-sector products far beyond oil.

Speaking at the 2nd National Committee Meeting on Export Promotion of the National Economic Council (NEC) held in Lagos, Governor Ambode said beyond oil, it was now important for the country to put in place infrastructure and other initiatives to support other sectors with the view to preparing them for export.   



He said already, the Lagos State Government had keyed into several export-oriented initiatives such as One-State One-Product Initiative, adding that it was gratifying to note that tremendous progress had been made in that regard.



“Our efforts in this area include the development of Lekki Free Zone as a one-stop export processing zone and we are happy to report that we have made tremendous progress in this particular export zone and I hope participants would have the time to see what it is that is actually going on in that place.



“Just to give you a clearer picture of what we are saying. At the end of 2020 when the investment of the Dangote Industries and other Deep Seaport that we are putting in that place will fully come on stream, the export inflow that we are projecting for that place is over $6billion and that is just the way to go,” Governor Ambode said.



He said through the export initiatives being spearheaded and monitored by the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), the State Government had identified and commenced the process of developing three key commodities in which the State has comparative and competitive advantage including Coconut, Fish and Vegetables.



“We plan to facilitate the development of these commodities into exportable products. Our export promotion initiatives also include export aggregators designed to boost production capacities of our indigenous micro small and medium industries. The objective is to create locally made products and services that not only satisfy local market but meet competitive export demand.



“We have also developed enterprise zone, small scale industrial estate and light industrial parks in different parts of this State to provide business accommodation and also factory spaces, support made-in-Lagos campaign and to also enhance market access for our MSMEs,” the Governor said.



He said the initiatives were some of the programmes of the State Government to support the Zero Oil plan of the Federal Government, just as he urged participants at the meeting to come up with a viable and sustainable agenda that would at the end of the day help in achieving Nigeria’s economic rebirth without reliance on oil.



While alluding to the visit of French President, Mr Emmanuel Macron to Afrika Shrine in Ikeja, the Governor said the development signposts the need for the country to develop other sectors of the economy especially the creative industry, among others.



“For me, the visit is clear that Afrobeat is a product that we can export but not only that, what about other things such as intellectual property and others that we need to harness to create a final product of our export policy. What about fashion? What about arts? There are lots of export products that we can export beyond Agriculture.



“However, before we can do that, we must put in place the infrastructure and the framework to support these industries and that is the core of this whole story. The message here is that let us expand the scope of our export considerations and increase the wealth of our nation.



“If one of the most powerful men in the world is a lover of our music and culture, then we must look inwards and find ways to export this. Our State is big on arts and entertainment and we believe strongly that this is a very lucrative avenue to create wealth and employment for our people,” Governor Ambode said.



According to the Governor, the economic indicators of the country were such that reliance on oil without planning for the future was dangerous, and so something urgent must be done to promote other sectors.



“For all the years, if you say oil is 90 per cent of what our economy is all about, if there is a flip in the price of oil, what happens to 190 million people on just one product? Who does that? So, the idea is this, if in 2050, Nigeria is targeted to be the third largest country in the world with 400million people and then maybe Lagos population by then will be about 50million people, then there is going to be a problem if by now we are not thinking about other products.



“And then, who cares about oil anyway when there are people using vehicles without oil and so something must be wrong if we are not thinking 2050 in 2018. We have been speaking about this and it is almost sounding like a broken record but if something goes wrong with oil, what are we doing,” he queried.



The Governor said though the Federal Government had shown leadership and good examples about rice production, but that it was important to come up with a national policy on export to create a roadmap to engender sustainable promotion of export.



“Beyond agric product and others, this is one singular opportunity for us to create a roadmap of an export policy that will be known as the National Policy on Export for the next 25 years which each State will key into and follow. The whole message is that we need to be broader in our approach. I believe strongly that the export policy strategy is another way to put Nigeria on the global map and that is the only way we can continue to bring ourselves together to promote export,” he said.



Besides, Governor Ambode advocated synergy among all the Federal Government agencies and State Governments to promote export, while also calling on Nigeria to immediately ratify the agreement on African Continental Free Trade Area which had already been signed by 49 out of 55 countries, adding: “Nigeria must show leadership because the whole of Africa is waiting for us to show leadership and we must drive the economy of the continent.”



Earlier, Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of NEPC, Mr Olusegun Awolowo called on State Governments to seriously consider bringing export products in their respective States for the Committee on Export Promotion to look at, saying such was important going forward.

Governor Ambode Sets to give out grants Worth N500m to CDAs in Lagos

Happening Now: Lagos State Governor, His Excellency, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode Sets to present grants Worth N500m to Community Development Associations ( CDAs) in Lagos State,  at De Blue Roof, LTV8, Agidingbi -Ikeja

CDAs Agege and Orile Agege to be part of the beneficiaries amongst others.

How 11-yr-old Nigerian artist dazzled President Macron with painting

As French President, Emmanuel Macron continues to revel in his return to Nigeria 17 years after serving as an intern in the country, one of the memories he will never forget is the creative skills of an 11-year-old Nigerian artist, Kareem Waris Olamilekan who drew a stunning portrait of him in just two hours during his visit to Fela Kuti's New Africa Shrine in Lagos on Tuesday.

Macron is currently on a two-day visit to Nigeria and attended a cultural showcase at the venue to announce the launch of the Season of African Cultural Season, scheduled to hold in France in 2020.

While waiting for the President to arrive, Olamilekan got to work and created a hyperrealist portrait of Macron, which was presented to him by the event's host, Nigerian singer, Banky W.

A visibly moved Macron touched heads with Olamilekan and later took to Twitter to appreciate his work.
He posted a short video of the moment, with the caption, "Very touched. Congrats to this young boy."

Olamilekan currently enjoys a growing reputation as the youngest member of a growing community of artists in Lagos creating hyper-realistic charcoal and pencil paintings.

Hyperrealism is a genre of art that produces hand-drawn images resembling high-resolution photos.

#macroninnigeria #macron #entertainment #africa Akinwunmi Ambode Emmanuel Macron Banky-W African Artists' Foundation BBC News Africa CNN International Yinka Ayandele Lagospedia Lagospedia EDUCATION DISTRICT 1, LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT Agege LG

2019 elections may not hold, PDP chairman warns

The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Prince Uche Secondus, on Wednesday in Abuja, warns that the 2019 general elections may not hold if the July 14 governorship election in Ekiti State is rigged.

He said the election must be free, fair and credible.

Secondus spoke at the national secretariat of the party while playing host to the Forum of PDP Local Government Chairmen who had paid him a courtesy visit.

He said the PDP would do everything within the law to win the 2019 presidential election to “save Nigerians from the All Progressives Congress-inflicted hardship.”

He also charged members of the forum to work hard to reposition the party in their respective domains, just as he assured them that the party under his stewardship was committed to free, fair and credible polls.

He said, “It is no longer business as usual at Wadata as the party has decentralised power to the grassroots to strengthen the party in readiness for the 2019 polls.

“To guard against corrupting party officials in the future, the National Working Committee would not assign hungry people on its assignments at whatever level.

“We have warned them not to rig the Ekiti governorship election because there will be a crisis. There may be no election in 2019 if Ekiti election is rigged.

“We won’t post persons who are hungry on party’s assignments; people who are looking for money. We have resolved here at Wadata that no one can change positions or names of people that have won elections. That was in the past.”

Source: Punch

Education District 1, Agege Wins Four Honours At Lagos Schools Debate

We Always Position Ourselves To Be The Best  Dr Ayandele

AgegePulse Magazine

The staff and students of Education District One, EDDI have once again proven that the district is truly a centre of excellence with another rounds of honours in the just concluded Lagos Schools Debate.

Over the years, especially since the appointment of Dr Mrs Yinka Ayandele  the woman with the midas touch, as the Permanent Secretary/Tutor General of EDDI by Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode, the fortune of the district has continue to soar astronomically around staff welfare, students academic and co-curricular activities.

Recently, some students of EDDI took their fellow students (debaters) from across the state to the cleaners in the Y2018 Lagos Schools Debate with veracious, tenacious and well-thought-out presentations that kept the judges and spectators inside the Blueroof hall of LTV8 jamming their hands endlessly.

Although, the cash prize was slightly lost to Agbede Senior School, Ikorodu, Masters Oluwatobiloba Odebowale and Denis Akinyemi of Vetland Senior Grammar School, Oko-Oba had to settle for the second position after dazzling like a million stars during their presentations.

Moreover, in the Best Individual Speaker category, the latter emerged 2nd while the former took the 3rd positions respectively.

Also, in the Junior Category, Akinfenwa Boluwatife and Adu Adeoluwa of Alimosho Junior Grammar School, Alimosho settled for the third place amidst fierce presentations from other participants in the category.

Speaking to AgegePulse Magazine, the Permanent Secretary/Tutor General of EDDI expressed delight towards the impressive performances of the students who represented the district. She thanked the state government and teachers of the students for creating enabling environment for learning and for developing the art of public speaking in the students respectively.

Our main target is always to win every competition we put in for, whether its academic or co-curricular activities, the target is always to take the top prize and be the best. Hence, we ensure we do not take anything for granted during preparation. I deeply appreciate the state government under the leadership of HE, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode for the huge support and massive investment in education. Indeed, he is a leader with clear focus. I must also commend the students and their teachers for a job well done. Congratulations to the EDDI family. Dr Ayandele said.
 
A total of 3,015 schools comprising 1,688 public and 1,329 private schools registered for this years competition as against 631 students of the preceding year. Agegepulse learnt that the Zonal Preliminaries for Government Primary, Junior and Senior Schools took place at the 20 Education Zones and Districts, while those of the Private schools were conducted by their associations to ensure that their best candidates were fielded.

The Lagos State Schools Debate is a Literary and Debating competition organised by the Lagos State Government through the Ministry of Education for all public and private senior secondary schools in the six (6) Education Districts in the State. The aim of the competition is to develop and improve the public speaking skills of the students through provocative topics being discussed by the students, to add value to the co-curricular in schools, with the hope of increasing communication and research skills of the students for a Brighter Rewarding Future (BRF).

WAEC releases 2018 May/June WASSCE result,

...says there’s decline in pass rate

The West African Examinations Council said on Wednesday that only 49.98 per cent of candidates who wrote its 2018 school certificate examination obtained credit passes and above.

The council’s Head of National Office, Mr. Olu Adenipekun, said the credit passes included English Language and Mathematics.

Adenipekun gave this information at a news conference to announce the 2018 West African Senior School Certificate Examination in Lagos.

According to him, the performance of candidates for its examinations in the last three years has been fluctuating in view of the outcome of the just released 2018 examination.

The HNO, who gave a breakdown of the statistics candidates’ performance in the examination, said that a total of 1,578,846 registered for the examination in Nigeria.

According to him, out of the number, 1,572,396 of them sat for the examination.

Adenipekun said a total of 786,016 candidates, representing 49.98 per cent who sat for the examination, obtained credits and above in a minimum of five subjects including English Language and Mathematics.
He said the performance, when compared to what obtained in the same examination in 2016 and 2017, showed a decline.


“If we should compare the performance of candidates for this year’s examination under this category with that of 2016, which was 52.97 and in 2017; 59.22, we are safe to say it is fluctuating, just as it is declining.

Source punch

Anigbajumo, councillors to embark on Y2018 Legislative Budget Consideration.

AgegePulse Magazine

The legislative Arm of Agege Local Government Area under the leadership of Hon. Anigbajumo Akolawole will tomorrow embark on Year 2018 Legislative Budget Retreat.

The retreat is aimed to dissect the content of the Budget presented to the house few months ago by the Executive Chairman of Agege, Alhaji Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi.

See poster for more details

CONTRACTORS COMPLETE SKYWALK BRIDGE OF TWO TERMINALS IN OSHODI

…As LASG Thanks Motorists, Residents For Understanding

The contractor handling construction of the iconic Oshodi Transport Interchange on behalf of the Lagos State Government, Planet Projects Limited has completed the hoisting of Skywalk Bridge linking terminals one and two of the interchange.

The exercise, which started on Sunday evening and lasted till early hours of Wednesday, was supervised by relevant government agencies, and supported by Police, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), among others to ensure security and safety. 

The State Government had announced partial restriction of movement on Oshodi flyover to enable it advance the construction of the transport interchange.


Giving details on the exercise, Managing Director of Planet Projects, Mr. Biodun Otunola said the hoisting of the pedestrian bridge of the Oshodi transport interchange was a significant milestone in the construction of the project, saying that all hands were on deck to ensure the interchange is delivered between October and November, 2018.



“This bridge is the longest free-standing bridge in the history of this country. It spanned 53.2metres. It is only supported at the two ends without any support at the middle and it is part of the skywalk for the Oshodi Transport Interchange.



“This particular one links terminal one and terminal two. We also have another one that is linking terminals two and three and that is about 155metres long. The plan is that people can move from one end of the terminal to another be it from terminal one, two and three and then the nature of the terminal is such that we have six lifts and one escalator, and so in all we have 18 lifts and three escalators.

“For anyone to access each of the sky bridge, you have to use the lift and we also have staircase for emergency exit. The skywalk is part of the features of the Oshodi Transport Interchange designed to make travel pleasurable, enjoyable, safe and more comfortable for commuting Lagosians,” Otunola said.

Also speaking, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Mr Taiwo Salaam, said the exercise was a critical stage of the construction of the interchange, saying it was in line with the vision of the State Government to redefine public transportation in the State.

“What is happening here is connectivity of terminal one and two of the transport interchange which has three terminals. It is a skywalk for pedestrians to link the terminals and this is an intermodal connectivity that is taking place.



“The dream of Lagos State Government under his Excellency, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode is to bring a befitting public-passenger transport that is sustainable, safe, frequent and reliable to people and the new Bus Reform Project needs all these appurtenances and infrastructure to be able to effectively run public-passenger transportation,” Salaam said.



He said the Oshodi interchange, when operational, would process minimum of one million passengers daily, while the Ikeja Bus Terminal which was constructed as part of the vision to transform public transportation would process 600,000 passengers daily.



“If we compare the two with processing of passengers to local and international airport, they are far below at about 21,000 passengers, and so for us in Lagos, we believe there is need to bequeath functional, efficient, safe and comfortable transportation system to our people,” Salaam said.



He said as part of plan for intermodal transport system, work was progressing on the Blue Line  as well as Red Line Rail projects, while the State Government was also constructing new ferry routes and jetties to boost water transportation.         



On his part, General Manager of LASEMA, Mr Adesina Tiamiyu said the agency was principally at the scene of the construction to provide the necessary safety backup and help to ensure hitch-free exercise.



“As an agency, the Oshodi interchange is a massive project and we are here first to give support to the project and secondly, we have also come with the capacity that we have to be able to provide an emergency services if the need arises.


“We have medical team with an ambulance on standby; we have lifting capacity with a forklift that could assist if they need them; we also have tow trucks because we have done some diversions here and if there are issues with broken down vehicles, we have to quickly do that so that we don’t lock up this road,” Tiamiyu said.

Meanwhile, the State Government has commended motorists and residents for their understanding and cooperation while the hoisting of the skywalk bridge lasted.


Salaam said the total cooperation of motorists during the period the flyover was closed to traffic, led to the completion of the installation process without any hitch.


The State Government also commended the project team led by Messrs Planet Projects Limited, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the Nigerian Police and other security agencies community for making the exercise come to completion safely and without any incidents.

BREAKING: Court orders National Assembly to commence impeachment process against President Buhari

A Federal High Court, sitting in Osogbo, Osun state capital has ordered the National Assembly to immediately commence impeachment process against President Muhammadu Buhari.

The judge gave the order on Wednesday, July 4, 2018 based on the suit filed by two Nigerians, Kanmi Ajibola, a lawyer and Sulaiman Adeniyi, a human right activist, urging the court to enforce the National Assembly to impeach President Buhari.

The duo had three months ago written to both the lower and the upper chambers of the National Asseorders National Assembly to commence impeachment process against President BuhariPublished on July 4, 2018 By Ajibola Olaniyi

A Federal High Court, sitting in Osogbo, Osun state capital has ordered the National Assembly to immediately commence impeachment process against President Muhammadu Buhari.


The judge gave the order on Wednesday, July 4, 2018 based on the suit filed by two Nigerians, Kanmi Ajibola, a lawyer and Sulaiman Adeniyi, a human right activist, urging the court to enforce the National Assembly to impeach President Buhari.

The duo had three months ago written to both the lower and the upper chambers of the National Assembly on the need to impeach President Buhari, citing alleged constitutional breaches by the president and threatened that they will approach the court if they failed to act accordingly.


But when the lawmakers refused, they headed for court and filed a suit at the Federal High Court, Osogbo asking for an order of mandamus to compel both the Senate and the House of Representatives to start the impeachment proceedings of President Buhari.

In the suit filed on Tuesday, June 19, 2018, they hinged their arguments on four grounds on why the National Assembly should impeach the Buhari.

In the motion ex-parte, the duo claimed that in flagrant violation of the 1999 constitution, President Buhari contested election, won and was sworn in as the president on the 29th day of May 2015 without possessing the basic constitutional requirement, which would have made him qualified for the contest of the election.


They further alleged that the 4th respondent, which is President Buhari in flagrant violation of section 137 (1) (j) of the 1999 constitution presented a forged certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the purpose of the 2015 presidential election that brought him to the office of the president

“In the light of the 4th Respondent’s placement to continue in the office as the president, he has no certificate and basic requirement upon which this placement to continue in the office can be placed.”

Besides, they accused the president of treating the orders of the court with great disdain and abuses the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria at will, particularly from the angle of the observance of the Federal character as contained in section 14 of the constitution.

“The 4th Respondent on the 29th day of May 2015, took an oath of office, among others, to the effect that, he would rule in accordance to and protect the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, particularly section 14 (2) (b) which stipulates that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.”

“In the contrary, the 4th Respondent has proved to be unable to guarantee the security of lives and properties of the citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in fulfilment of his oath of Office. The herdsmen killings of the innocent citizens under the 4th Respondent have been uncountable, unbearable and unprecedented overheating figures in the globe.

“The 4th Respondent in contravention of the due process and sections 80 and 81 of the 1999 constitution spent about $496 Million on the purchase of Tucano Jets without the approval of the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as required by the law.

Can the 4th Respondent continue to benefits from his act of forgery and infraction of constitution?

“Definitely, an Ameriminister of the Great Britain”, they noted.

Barrister Ajibola urged the court that with all array of documents before the court, he was of the view that the National Assembly must perform its constitutional duties without fear or favour.

Justice Onyetenu in her ruling granted the application and ordered “that the National Assembly being the 1st,2nd and 3rd respondents commence the impeachment of President Muhammadu Buhari”.

Further hearing on the matter has been fixed for October, 2018

 oThey further alleged that the 4th respondent, which is President Buhari in flagrant violation of section 137 (1) (j) of the 1999 constitution presented a forged certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the purpose of the 2015 presidential election that brought him to the office of the president“In the light of the 4th Respondent’s placement to continue in the office as the president, he has no certificate and basic requirement upon which this placement to continue in the office can be placed

AFRIKA SHRINE REPRESENTS CULTURE, STRENGTH, MUSIC OF THE CONTINENT- MACRON

…Visit Will Open New Vista Of Cooperation Between France And Lagos- Ambode

…Insists State Remains Undeniable Destination For Business, Pleasure In Africa

Agege Pulse Magazine

President of France, Mr. Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday night made a historic visit to the Afrika Shrine, home of the late Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, describing it as an iconic centre for the propagation of African culture, strength and music.


Macron, who spoke at the New Afrika Shrine in Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos, at an event tagged ‘Celebration of African Culture’ to inaugurate the African Cultural Season 2020, said he was glad to be back to the Afrika Shrine, adding that he still holds fond memories of the place since his first visit back in 2002.

“I discovered Nigeria and a lot of my friends are here. I discovered Nigeria and I discovered Lagos and I discovered the shrine. This place is an iconic place and it is a place where the best of music is given. I have to say my main memories about this place are friends, proud people, proud of their culture, proud of their art and music. I have a very different view of Africa than a lot of other people in Europe,” he said.

Macron stressed the need for Africa and Europe, especially France to build a new commonality, adding that “this new commonality is not based on what is important for Europeans but what is important for Africa, about their culture, how they build their culture and promote the culture and which places are important for them about their culture. Being here, I do recognize their culture and respect their views. This place is important for Africa and their culture and that is why I am here.”



He also disclosed plans to host the African Cultural Season 2020 in France, which he said, would be about promoting African culture in Europe, adding that the event was going to be for Africa and by African artistes.



“It will include people with fashion, African movies, new generation of artistes will be coming from Africa and it will be organized by them to show Europe and France” the real culture of Africa.


“The event will be financed by African leaders. It will not be sponsored by France or European businesses, but by African businesses, it is brand new. This season is a unique one and it will be the new face of Africa in Europe organize by Africans, providing what you like and what you have here,” he said.


At the official unveiling of Alliance Francaise, a French Cultural Centre in Lagos on Wednesday, Macron said the development was part of the measures to scale up the relationship between France and Nigeria, while also specifically offering the commitment of the government and people of France to development of infrastructural projects in Lagos.


“Thanks very much for being here; thanks very much for making this possible and to Mr Governor, we spoke yesterday and this morning together in the car. Going to shrine together yesterday and going to French Alliance now. It’s much more quite, much more calm and reasonable but at the end of the day, I think both of us (Governor Ambode and I) did share the same views that we can do tremendous things together.


“Your State – Lagos, is one of the main challenges of not just Nigeria but the whole of Africa. I mean this huge city, there is tremendous challenge about how to make people living together in peace, in a better place and I want France to be part of this story and I do want my country and my people being part of this experience. It means belonging same values, sharing cultures, languages, literatures, music, movies, building together projects, having common economic projects and so on, and this eco system will be not just possible but stronger staying in this place,” Macron said.


Earlier, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode while welcoming President Macron to the State, expressed optimism that the historic visit will go a long way to break any barriers between Nigeria and France as well as foster greater collaboration for economic, social and cultural growth.


The Governor said the State Government was delighted to host Macron, a well respected global leader, adding that it would also signal a new era between both countries, especially for Lagos where talents in the arts and creative industry abound. 


“On behalf of the government and good people of Lagos State, I welcome His Excellency, President Emmanuel Macron, President of France, to the commercial and cultural capital of Nigeria and indeed West Africa.

“We are delighted and honoured to be hosting a President of one of the world’s Super Powers; a permanent member of the United Nation’s Security Council with veto rights, a prominent member of the G8 and the World Trade Organisation and a champion of Global Climate Change.


The Governor said he was particularly delighted that Macron's visit to Lagos began on a cultural and entertainment note, adding that the French Cultural Centre and Alliance Française based in the State had always been an asset to its cultural landscape in the same way that Trace Television had also become an invaluable addition to its music and entertainment sphere.


Governor Ambode said he was very optimistic Macron’s visit and activities would boost the State’s quest to become the culture and entertainment capital of Africa, just as he said that the State Government would seek to establish collaborations with France and play an integral part of the Year 2020 African Cultural Season in Paris as envisioned by President Macron.


“With the exceptional characteristics of our State as the most populous, vibrant and indeed the fifth richest economy on the African continent, Lagos is the undeniable destination for business and pleasure in Africa. The new Lagos experience is being enhanced daily as we continue to create an enduring infrastructural and security architecture for the business of tourism and cultural arts to thrive. This also creates a platform for our local talents to feel a sense of belonging and encouragement.

“Mr. President, this momentous State Visit shall signal the dawn of a new era between France and Nigeria especially for the myriad of talents that have made Lagos their home,” the Governor said.


He said Macron’s emergence as the President of France has inspired many youths in Nigeria, who constitute 60 percent of the country’s population, adding that Lagos was providing avenues for youths to explore their creativity and talents.


There were also Art Exhibition, Fashion Show, display of Nollywood scenes, presentation of a painting of Fela to Macron by Governor Ambode as well as pencil frame artwork of Macron done by 11-old old Kareem Olamilekan drawn within two hours.


Highpoints of the night include sterling performances by dance group, Footprints of David, music artistes, Yemi Alade, Charlotte Dipanda from Kenya and a scintillating performance by Femi Kuti to bring the event to a close.

APC CRISIS: oshiomole came too late, we are leaving. -Shehu Sani

Senator Shehu Sani has said there is no going back on the decision of aggrieved members of the All Progressives Congress in Kaduna State to leave the party.

Sani stated this during an interaction with newsmen in Abuja on Tuesday.

He said if only the new National Chairman of the APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, had assumed office earlier, the scenario could have been different.

But he said Oshiomhole was coming too late with this reconciliation agenda.

He described the situation that led to the crisis as grenade laid by the former National Chairman of the party, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, adding that they will explode in a matter of days.

He said: “I wish Adams has come earlier because like I said these grenades that were laid by the former chairman will explode in a matter of days.”

Sani said party leaders, including President Muhammadu Buhari, have proved incapable of handling the crisis.

He said the ward, local government and state congresses in Kaduna State were flawed and that complaints he and other party members lodged were ignored by the Odigie-Oyegun-led National Working Committee.

He said: “It is also very clear to us that even President Muhammadu Buhari is incapable of tackling the menace of the governor of Kaduna State.

“How can a governor openly call for violence against senators and not a statement came from the seat of power cautioning such a governor?

“How can a governor move bulldozers and demolish a house of a fellow party member, the one who helped him to be where he is and there is not even a statement from the Presidency?
“The governor uses the machinery of the state to emasculate political opponents.

“He even framed me for murder and there was no statement that came from the Presidency to caution such a governor.

“Virtually, Kaduna State under governor El-Rufai does not create conducive environment for any of us to remain in that party.
“There were three attempts to resolve the Kaduna APC crisis.
“There was Inuwa Abdulkadir committee, which was never respected by the governor.

“There was the Governor (Aminu) Masari-led committee, which was also not respected and there as you can see, (Asiwaju Bola Ahmed) Tinubu’s attempt to reconcile members of the party was simply naturalized and abandoned.

“So we are not slaves to continue to be in that party.”

My Dad was in Kidnapper's Den during Argentina Match, Mikel Obi Reveals

BY KUNLE SOLAJA, MOSCOW.

Nigeria’s skipper, Mikel Obi has opened up on the trauma he went through as he led the Super Eagles in the futile effort to get past the group stage of the Russia 2018 World Cup.

In a statement released by his publicists, Mikel remarked: “Following various speculators about recent occurrence with my father. I can confirm I had to suppress emotional trauma to lead Nigeria out against Argentina last Tuesday 26th June in Saint Petersburg.

“Four hours before kick-off, I received a call from Nigeria that my father Pa Michael Obi had been kidnapped for the second time.

“He was on his way to a funeral in south eastern Nigeria from Jos when he was abducted along the Makurdi-Enugu expressway.

“I was emotionally distraught but had to make a decision about whether I was mentally ready to play the game.

“I was confused. I did not know what to do, but in the end I knew that I could not let 180 million Nigerians down, I had to shut it out of my head and go and represent my country first.

“I could not even inform the coaches or NFF staff, and only a very tight circle of members my friends knew

“I was told that they would shoot my dad instantly if I reported to the authorities or told anybody.

“And I did not want to discuss it with the coach because I did not want my issue to become a distraction to the coach or the rest of the team on the day of such an important game.

“So as much as I wanted to discuss it with the coach, I could not do it. Thankfully he is now safely released less than seven hours ago. I thank the police authorities for their rescue efforts and support from friends and family members”.

Photo: Zamora 

Why I’m visiting Afrika Shrine - Macron

President Emmanuel Macron of France has given the reason behind his decision to visit the Afrika Shrine in Lagos.

The French leader disclosed this during a joint press conference at the presidential villa in Abuja yesterday.

Recalling his days in Nigeria, Macron said he never imagined he would return to Nigeria as president of France.

Fifteen years ago, the president of France worked as a diplomat in Abuja.

He told reporters that the Afrika Shrine stands as a symbol on the importance of African culture.

“First, because I wanted to find a good occasion to come back there. I know the place and I have some memories, I have to confess at a time that there was no president around, I hope I will not spoil the party,” he said.

“First, I think that is such an iconic place for a lot of African people and African culture. And I think very often when you speak of the African culture in Europe, those who are successful in Europe and in France, which is different most of the times are not dramatically very famous in Nigeria or in Africa. And there is a bias because you know people are absolutely not the same.

“I mean Fela, Femi, Seun Kuti are obviously very famous in France and Europe, I mean they are big successes but the Shrine is a cultural hub, an iconic hub and it is very important for me first on a personal level, and that is why I want to say with a lot of humility that I recognize the importance of this place, I recognize the place of culture in this current environment.”

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

READ MORE: http://bit.ly/2MHalxE

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