Barber who set self ablaze on Lagos road dies

...It's unfortunate We could not save his life - Emergency Officer

A barber has taken his own life after setting himself ablaze on a road leading to Omole Estate, near Akiode Bus Stop, Lagos.

He died while he was receiving treatment at a hospital.

The barber had reportedly emerged on the road around 4:30pm on Wednesday holding a five-litre jerrycan of petrol.

He subsequently poured the fuel on his body; struck a match and lit himself.

Our correspondent learnt that a passerby, who was standing a few metres away from the scene, rushed to put out the fire.

The young man, who was identified simply as Ahmed, was said to have died shortly after he was rescued from the scene around 5:00pm by officials of the Lagos State Ambulance Services.

Before the arrival of the emergency officials and policemen from the Ojodu Division, it was gathered that a mild drama played out.

“While a man used a piece of torn carton to fan the man, some passersby were busy taking his photograph,” an eyewitness, Dolapo Gabriel, told Saturday PUNCH,

Gabriel stated that Ahmed was running a barber’s shop until his life recently took a drastic turn.

“I saw him pouring the fuel on himself but I thought it was water. Within seconds, he brought out a pack of matches from his pocket and set himself ablaze. Fortunately, a food seller close to the gate had some water. A man quickly took the water to put out the fire. Some people and I joined him. It was strange to me,” he added.

A resident, who introduced himself simply as Tolu, explained that he saw Ahmed walking along the road on Monday and advised him on the need to turn a new leaf.

He said, “He was a barber and used to have a shop around Akiode. He closed the shop sometime ago and started roaming about the neighbourhood. He smoked a lot which I think affected his brain.

“Two days ago, I met him on the road and talked to him that he needed to change. I told him that I would take him to church next Sunday for special prayers. He asked me to buy roasted corn for him which I did after he assured me he would follow me to the church.”

Another eyewitness, Samuel, described Ahmed as a drug addict, saying that he had been mentally unstable for some time.

“Many people around here know him. He used to be a decent person before he suddenly changed as a result of drugs. He lived with his family within this community and they are aware of his plight,” she said.

A senior emergency official told our correspondent on Friday that Ahmed gave up the ghost while he was receiving treatment.

“It is unfortunate that we could not save the man’s life. He died while receiving treatment and his corpse had been handed over to his family,” the official disclosed.

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Chike Oti, confirmed the incident, but said he had yet to be briefed on the man’s death.

He said, “The incident is true. The man attempted suicide by setting himself ablaze but he was rescued. We have yet to ascertain the reason why he took that deadly action.”

Copied Afeez Hanafi

Agege Legislative Arm Holds Y2018 Budget Consideration

...As Hon Ogundimu, Hon Fatai Ajijola Light Up Retreat

AgegePulse Magazine

The legislative Arm of Agege Local Government under the leadership of Hon. AKolawole Anigbajumo has embarked on Year 2018 Legislative Budget Retreat to dissect the content of the Budget presented to the house few months ago by the executive chairman of Agege, Alhaji Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi.

The appropriation document is tagged: "Budget of Sustainable Social, Economic and Infrastructural Development",.

On the Day 2 of the retreat, Chairman of Lagos State House Assembly Committee on Finance, Hon. Oluyinka Ogundimu was on ground to speak on the importance of " Budget & Budgeting".

As a United house, all the councilors representing the seven wards in Agege were fully engaged in the deliberation.

Also, former Council Leader Orile Agege LCDA, Hon. Fatai Ajibola who was a guest yesterday, shared from his wealth of his legislative experience while discussing how to ensure effective budget implementation is achieved.

We'll Build Crime-free Society Through Education - Orile Agege Boss, Hon. JS Babatunde

...Distributes Over 150 GCE Forms To Orile Agege Scholars

AgegePulse Magazine

Aside from building infrastructure and construction of roads, the Executive Chairman of Orile Agege LCDA, Hon. JS Babatunde has taken education as a major area of consideration of his administration. Since assuming office, huge investment has gone into providing conducive environment for teaching and learning within his jurisdiction.

Having invested hugely in the rehablitation of Ideal Primary School and Zion Primary School, sharing of writing materials to school pupils, the council boss has also distributed over 150 GCE forms to scholars in the council as part of his commitment to improve and enhance literacy level in Orile Agege LCDA.

In a brief chat with AgegePulse, the council boss, stated that: "The annual GCE form distribution is meant to eradicate illiteracy, to make education as a priority and to reduce crime rate among the youths and more importantly to give opportunities to those that can't afford to buy the form. Education is a major tool to empower our youth and chide them away from societal vices. We'll continue to support this course."

Also,  Hon. JS Babatunde pledged to support Ogunshina Taiwo and Kehinde ( Beneficiaries) by paying their tutorial fees in order to encourage and boost their performances in the upcoming exams.   

The council's Vice Chairman who doubles as Supervisor for Education, Hon.Kafilat Akanni Pedro, commended Hon. JS Babatunde for his biased commitment towards given the people of Orile Agege an enabling environment to thrive when it comes to education.

The beautiful lieutenant urged beneficiaries of the GCE forms to take advantage of the chairman's gesture as an opportunity to plan for their chosen career. she advised them to make adequate preparation that will herald success during the examination period, adding that to whom much is given, much is expected.


Leader of the House, Hon. Wale Fayemi, Hon. Councillors and Supervisors, HoA, Mr Azeez Ademola and other management staff of the council marked attendance at the event.

Oyo 2019: Awolowo, Olubadan, Olunloyo others endorse Ayandele

....you’re Awolowo’s reincarnation, APC excos

...As Dr. Ayandele Joins Gubernatorial Race

The journey to the Oyo State government highest seat is bound to be very eventful as 2019 draws nearer.

And one candidate who has stood out so far amongst the multitude jostling for the ruling All Progressive Congress, APC, ticket is none other than Dr. Olusola Ayandele, popularly called Stainless within the State

#Eruobodo2019, which is his campaign mantra, set the state agog today when Dr. Ayandele formerly declared his intention to contest for the number one seat to serve the good people of Oyo State and build on the progress the incumbent governor, Sen. Isiaka Abiola Ajimobi.



The gubernatorial aspiration got a big boost when the former governor of Oyo State in 1983, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, visited the Stainless campaign office on Obafemi Awolowo Road, Ibadan and certified Dr. Ayandele as the worthy voice of the people come 2019 election. METRONEWS NG recalls that same Dr. Omololu once predicted the emergence of Oba Saliu Adetunji as the Olubadan before the latter was crowned 10years later.

The campaign train then hit town and berthed first at the palace of Olubadan of Ibadanland, HRM Oba Saliu Adetunji, where the aspirant sought his royal blessing and approval to lead the state come May 29, 2019.

With his humble entourage well received by the king, Olusola was able to give insights into the great plans he has for the good people of Oyo State.



In his response, the Olubadan praised him for his courage and wished him success in his quest to become the next Oyo State governor.

“By the special grace of God, you shall become governor,” Olubadan said, “No one can make a king but God. Therefore, don’t listen to those who claim it can’t be done.”

After, the train moved to pay homage to Obafemi Awolowo’s family, who had already shown its acceptance and approval of Olusola’s ambition by granting the aspirant the permission to put his campaign poster beside late Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s picture on a billboard stationed in front of the great Yoruba leader’s Ibadan house.

The eldest daughter of the first premier of South West, Mrs. Tola Oyediran, also prayed for the aspirant and said she is in total support of his dream to govern the state.

The excitement came to a crescendo when at the Oyo APC party secretariat, the executives likened the aspirant to the great Awolowo, describing him as the reincarnation of the late Yoruba leader.

Dr. Olusola Ayandele, who is an Ibarapa man, said he is not desperate to become the governor of Oyo State but he is determined to be.

At the mega rally ground, where multitude of party faithfuls and the people of the state trooped out in support of #Eruobodo2019, Olusola, who never minced word at his conviction of being the next governor of the state, made known his plans again for the people principal of which is ensuring that farming is enough to be the major internally generated revenue.

“If Cocoa House, Obafemi Awolowo Stadium formerly known as Liberty Stadium and first television station in Africa were built with money generated from cocoa, then we can do it again,” he insisted.

With today’s successful declaration, the journey to the state house has just began and Dr. Olusola Ayandele made it known he is not afraid to face the future as he is well prepared to tackle the challenges in ensuring he clinches the ticket to represent the great and progressive party, APC, by building on the successes of incumbent governor, Sen. Ajimobi.

When asked of his take on what the future holds as he had thrown his hat into the ring, the successful businessman and seasoned engineer smiled, looked at his wife, Dr. Mrs. Yinka Ayandele, whose mobilization of the women folks for the day’s outing added glamour to the event and said, “Eru o b’odo, eni to fe kan l’odo ni komura.”

AgegePulse Magazine

Source; Metronews

Lagos Speaker Obasa, Ogundimu, Other Lawmakers Call On Gov. Ambode To Restrict Trailer's Movement

AgegePulse Magazine

Following the recent petrol tanker accident that claimed lives and property along Otedola Estate in Berger area on Thursday 28th June,  2018, the Leader of the House, Hon. Sanai Agunbiade called for a review of issues surrounding movement of trailers in the state.

The Motion was moved by 14 members of the House.

The House urged the Governor to direct the State Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Dipo Lawanson to ensure that long vehicles do not ply the roads in the state until 9pm.

"The House observed that the fire incident around Otedola Estate on Thursday  28, June led to avoidable deaths of several people and destroyed many properties.

"We noticed that the incident was caused by recklessness on the part of the driver, overspeeding, drinking of alcohol amongst others.  It is also observed that many of the drivers do not have drivers license  and many of the vehicles are not road worthy," he said.

While commending the Lagos State Government for the rapid response to the incident, the movers of the motion urged the state government to sanction any long vehicle owner that does not obtain necessary papers and ensure road worthiness of their vehicles.

Agunbiade stated that it was worrisome that long vehicles are parked on Ikorodu Road indiscriminately considering the consequences.

The House used the opportunity to call on the state's Governor to direct the Commissioner for Transportion to provide regulations for the types of vehicles that would ply Lagos roads based on their year of purchase.

Agunbiade added that the state government should direct all owners of long vehicles to go for insurance policies, provide places to park the vehicles and ensure that they follow the regulations of the state government.

"We also want to call on Governor Ambode to direct the Chief Justice of the state, Justice Olufunmilayo Oke to set up mobile courts to handle cases involving long vehicles.

"The House calls on the Minister of Power, Works and Housing to repair the roads in the state and provide weigh bridges for the vehicles," he said.

The Motion was, however, supported by Hon. Abiodun Tobun.

Contributing to the matter, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa suggested that the state Commissioner for Transport should meet with the insurance companies so that the policies would be done properly.

"The state government should have a discussion with the insurance companies  so that the policies would be original and not fake.

"Our traffic law should be reviewed to reduce loss of lives on our roads. If the Otedola Estate incident had happened at night, the casualty would have been minimal," he stated.

Also speaking on the matter,  Hon. Yinka Ogundimu said that the state government should call on the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Edgal Imohinmi to be up and doing to ensure that the vehicle owners obtain insurance policies.

He said that the policies should be regulated by the police so that the efforts of the government would not be wasted.

The motion was also supported by Hon. Bisi Yusuf, who said that a similar incident was averted in Alimosho Area on Wednesday, adding that the matter should be taken seriously.

The Speaker of the House subsequently directed the Clerk of the House, Mr. Azeez Sanni to write to the government on the matter.

Meanwhile, the House has set up a committee to review the mid-year expenditure of the Ministries, Parastatals and Agencies (MDAs) in the state.

The Committee is to be headed by Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu, while members include Hon. Abiodun Tobun, Hon. Yinka Ogundimu, Hon. Jude Idimogu, Hon. Bisi Yusuf, Hon. Moshood Oshun, Hon. Nurudeen Saka-Solaja and Hon. Adefunmilayo Tejuosho.

The committee was directed to submit its report within two weeks and a half.

Collect Rent In Arrears Not In Advance, Fashola Tells Landlords

...Says Consider the low-income earners.

AgegePulse Magazine

The Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, on Thursday urged landlords in the country to start collecting rents in arrears beginning from today, July 6, 2018.

According to him,  property owners across the country should understand the plights of the low-income earners.

While advocating the payment of rents after each month, as against what is obtainable across the country currently, the minister appealed to homeowners to be considerate.

He argued that salary earners, who could afford to pay rents, were not receiving their salaries in advance, but in arrears.

Fashola stated this while speaking on the theme, ‘Innovative housing finance model as a catalyst for home ownership,’ at an event for real estate operators in Abuja.

He recommended that there should be a landlord-tenant-employer’s relation, whereby the landlord reaches an agreement with the tenant’s employer to ensure the rent is deducted on a monthly basis from the tenant’s salary.

Fashola said, “If you ask me to go and bring in advance one year’s rent from what I’m going to earn monthly in arrears, how feasible is that?


“Even my salary as a minister is paid at the end of every month, not even at the beginning; then you the landlord is now asking me to bring next year’s salary, and we’re complaining that there’s corruption.

“I tried to intervene as a governor, passing the resolution to our own council in Lagos then, but the outcome was not peaceful, because there were landlords in our midst.”

The minister made it clear that he was not pleased with the practice of advance rent payment, arguing that all the developed economies Nigeria was being compared to were not collecting one year’s rent in advance.

“Those who get paid weekly, pay their rents weekly; those who get paid monthly, pay monthly rents,” Fashola stated.

According to him, the masses, unlike the well to do in the society, cannot afford to pay their house rents in advance.

“I believe this meeting is about the critical mass of Nigerians, the taxi drivers, market men and women who earn their money daily and are not even sure of making any revenue for that day. Meanwhile, landlords expect advance payments,” the minister told his listeners.

Fashola charged all landlords in the country, starting from Friday, July 6, 2018, “to agree to take one month rent in arrear,” noting that the payment pressure on the side of the tenant would be reduced in 12 months.

The minister also stated that there was no country in the world where everybody owned a home.

Fashola, at another function in Abuja, stated that claims that Chinese firms in Nigeria could be harbouring workers originally serving prison terms in their home country were subjective and unconfirmed.

He also suggested that the conditions for loans given to Nigeria by China might include the use of certain number of Chinese labour to execute infrastructure projects in the country.

He added that it was necessary for Nigeria to upgrade its influence in the world by developing its economy such that it could take such decisions in its engagements with the rest of the world, especially countries it would lend money to.

Police warn against cult gathering in Lagos

The Lagos State Police Command has warned suspected cult members planning to converge on any part of the state on Saturday, July 7 for a supremacy fight to drop the idea in their own interest.

The state police spokesperson, CSP Chike Oti, said such a move would be resisted, urging parents to put their children in checks.

He said, “The authorities of the Lagos State Police Command have received credible intelligence that members of some unlawful societies such as the Aiye, Eiye, Black Axe and Buccaneers  are going round town serving notices to rival cult gangs in the neighborhood that they would be converging on Saturday, July 7, 2018, at yet-to-be disclosed locations within their domains.

“According to available information, the 7th day of the 7th month is sacred to these outlaws. It is also a day they settle scores with rival cults and a day of outright brigandage and anomie.

“No cult will be allowed to compromise the peace nurtured by men and women of goodwill in the state and maintained by the police.

“The Lagos Commissioner of Police, Edgal Imohimi, therefore, urges members of the public to blow the whistle on these brigands anywhere they are found.”

Ambode challenges civil servants on effective decision management

...create entrepreneurial public service, says Utomi

AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos state governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has challenged the state's civil servants to be proactive in decision making process for quality service delivery to the public.

Governor Ambode said this became imperative for the civil servants, so as to incorporate organisational behaviour, hone thier effective decision abilities which are rational, informed and collaborative for the overall interest of the state.

Ambode gave this indication at a two-day workshop organised by the Ministry of Establishments, Training and Pensions for some top management officers on how to improve their critical thinking skills.

The governor, who spoke through the Commissioner for Establishments, Training and Pensions, Dr. Akintola Benson-Oke, explained that the training was designed to achieve a paradigm shift required for high impact decision in the state civil service.

While delivering a keynote address, on the 'High Impact Decision Making Programme for Directors in the Lagos State Public Service', Benson-Oke said government is concerned about improving the state civil service, in order for her to meet up with the current trends and compete favourably with thier counterparts in any part of the world.

"Every responsible government places premium on the establishment, maintenance and sustenance of a modern, robust, effective public service. In most democracies, the public service represents the permanent government that must be equipped to adequately advise the government of the day, implement government programmes and effectively communicate the reasoning behind government-sanctioned programmes to the citizens.

"The net effect is that, if public servants are well equipped to discharge these tasks, the programmes of government will be effectively implemented," he said.

He added that decision-making is a huge responsibility which drives relationship between government and the public, hence, the need for continuous training of the teeming work force which formed the path towards a renewed and foremost state civil service.

The governor said the state was investing in Infrastructural renewal projects and would continue with the training and re-training of its workforce for it to key into developmental strides of the government.

In his words, "As to the matter of decision-making styles, the need for senior officers to develop a decision-making style that will make the proper implementation of government policies very effective will be tuned to achieving intended goals can never be overemphasised."

He stressed that attainment of higher positions in the civil service involved a lot of making decisions, and to climb the corporate ladder and be effective in new roles, managers must learn new skills and behaviours to create the way they use information and the way to create and evaluate options.

One of the resource person at the training, Professor Pat Utomi, stated that the Lagos state government was creating an enabling environment for their staff to allow them perform optimally in the public service career.

Professor Utomi, who commended the initiative said that the world had gone digital and complex, and as such; individuals, the private sector and government could not be left out.

He said, "We are now in a digital world. A world that is volatile, competitive and ambiguous. It means that anybody who is in this environment must be very sophisticated in gathering and processing information, and also making a choice out of hundreds of thousands of options that are before such a decision and the maker. It also involves training yourself to be capable to take this kind of decision that can affect million of lives."

He, however, advised government to create an entrepreneurial public service that can work with the stakeholders and essentially align with their needs towards achieving its set goals.

Earlier, the Director of Training, Ministry of Establishments, Training and Pensions, Mr. Ayodeji Aruna, implored the participants to use the training sessions judiciously to upgrade thier skills and train their subordinates for optimal performance of the state civil service.

SHORT BIOGRAPHY OF LATE SHAYKH MUHAMMAD YAHYA SALATI:

The renowned scholar, is a grammarian, mystical, poet, Islamic philosopher, jurist, person is Shaykh muhammad yahya Salati.

The son of Shaykh Hashim bn muhammad baba, bn Abdulsalam (kofasamu; simply means: the fearless), by which his father was a Nephew to popular and reformer of Qa’diriyah order in Yoruba land in nigeria.

Shaykh Hamad rufai nda salati, while his mother sahadah is one of Shaykh nda Salati’s Daugthers.

He was born in Ilorin in the year 1960 he started his Arabic education background from his uncle Shaykh Buhari.

In 1968 he was enrolled at Ansar Islam primary school Okekere Ilorin, for the western and Islamic Education.

He finished his primary level in 1976, And Because of his quest and thirsty for knowledge he moved to lagos the same year where he lived with Shaykh Abdullah salati and later become alter ego to Shaykh Sha’zili Sambo oganija as his first pupils which also enrolled to marcaz (Islamic training centre at Agege the same year 1976).

He finished both stages (Ida ‘di and Tha’nawi) at marcaz and graduate in 1983. In February 2, 1985 he was appointed as Imam at masjid Aranse Oluwa, Olumo street, Papa Ashafa Agege, lagos.

He joined Ansa’r Deen Society of Nigeria in 1985 through Alhaji Abdul Azeez Adeshina and served as deputy missioner of Fadeyi branch till 1998.

He performed his first haj in 1990. In 1998, he was appointed as the missioner of ojodu branch till 2012.

He resigned from the society in 2012 and stand as chief Imam in his permanent Masjid at Denro Ojodu Ogun State. He was a married man and blessed with many children.

He succeeded shaykh Abdullah salati after his demise for ramadan tafsir at ode-alfanda, ilorin since 2005 till date and he has since moved the programme to the greater height.

In 2002 He delivered a paper at “usbuhu shaykh” marcaz agege on the topic:

*THE ROLE AND IMPACT OF QA’DIRIYAH IN WEST AFRICA TOWARD DEVELOPMENT OF ISLAM*

In 2011, He visited “el-azhar el-sherif” and met some personels like shaykh el azhar tanta’wi and others.

He also attended maolid at senegal in 2012 and related sufis conferences in which he was honoured to contribute to the theme of the day , a rare opportunity to come by.

In 2003, he officially established madrasah (Ibtida’hiyah section) at denro lshashi ogun state.

He wrote many books with arabic language such like;

Manzumatul alfiyah (on philosophy),

El hahaji el sufiyah (on sufism),

Jada’wilu qa’nunil fikr (on logic),

Diwa’nu shir lateef (on ode/ poem) and others.

He is da’hiyah per excellence in our immediate society. He has attended lectures and conferences every part of the nation like:

Anabra,
Delta,
Kano,
Abuja,
Oyo and others.

He almost travel accross the globe for “dahwa” to mention few:

Saudi arabia-

Benin Republic-

Port Novo (more than a time),

Egypt (2011),

Senegal (2012),

Canada (2016),

Italy/rome (2016),

France (2016),

United state of america (2017).
In summary, he was pronounced in 1996 as Amirul jaysh Qa’diriyah (The commander Chief of Qa’diriyah in Yoruba land, He is Chief imam, author, rector and the head of sawiya jilani and its branches in nigeria, Benin and dubai . He has students and “sa’likun” of qa’diriyah order…
Finally he passed away on Thursday 5th of July, 2018

May Allah be pleased with this our humble lecturer and great Sufist forgive all his shortcomings and grant him Jannatul Firdaws.

Robbery suspects escape from police cell with handcuff

Two robbery suspects, Rotimi Adeyeye and Adeoye Bukola, have reportedly escaped from a cell of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad of the Ondo State Police Command.

It was gathered that the suspects allegedly broke into the house of one Samuel Arifalo in the Ijoka area of Akure, and robbed him of some valuables on April 30, 2018.

A source said they were later arrested and handed over to men of the Special Anti-Cultism Squad in Akure, who kept them in custody for 16 days.

They were said to have been arrested for cultism instead of robbery.

The source said, “Some residents of the area informed the state Commissioner of Police about the matter and the commissioner directed that the suspects be transferred to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad.

“On Monday, the suspects escaped from police cell with handcuffs in their hands. Till now, the police have yet to get them.”

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Femi Joseph, said the command had started investigation into the matter.

He, however, said the suspects were not arrested for robbery, but for stealing and burglary, adding that the SARS officers on duty at the time of the escape had been arrested.

Punch

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