The Police misunderstood me, Small Doctor explains arrest over arms possession

AgegePulse Magazine

Singer Adekunle Temitope, aka Small Doctor, has finally explained circumstances that led to his arrest by the Nigerian Police.

Speaking with our correspondent, the singer, who was released from Police custody on Tuesday, said his issue with the Police was a case of misunderstanding.

 “It was a case of misunderstanding and everything is settled.

"My fans need to know that I will not get involved in any illegality. The younger ones look up to me for hope and I will never let them down.”

Small Doctor insisted that he had licence to carry a gun, saying that he was stunned when he later read that he was in possession of illegal firearms.

He added, “As I said earlier, I cannot be involved in any illegal activity. There is no way I will hold a firearm without having a licence."

He insisted that there was no way the fracas would affect his show slated for Sunday, as all preparations had been
concluded.

Punch

K1 Meets Lagos APC Gov. Candidate Sanwoolu and Deputy Hamzat

...Donates  Campaign Vehicles

AgegePulse Magazine

Fuji music king, Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde Marshal popularly called K1 De Ultimate officially met with Lagos APC governorship candidate, Babajide Sanwoolu and the deputy governorship candidate, Kadiri Obafemi Hamsat at their Awolowo Road koyi office this afternoon Tuesday the 4th of December 2018.

The meeting becomes the first to be done by the musician since the flag off of the campaign by the party.

K1 who is also a top party member used the opportunity to pledge his loyalty to the party  towards winning the election in the state next year.

The musician who came with his team promised to keep on supporting the party till victory is achieved at the next year general election.

interestingly, K1 made it known to the governorship candidate and his deputy that he'll be supporting the campaign with 15 vehicles which he promised to take the campaign office in GRA Ikeja. He however brought 2 vehicles to the Ikoyi office that he presented to both Sanwoolu and Hamsat.

While speaking on the visit, K1 says  "the journey has started. we've mapped out plans to achieve this. We have  done this for the past three governments and i am certain that what we started will turn out well. I have no doubt in my mind that victory is just by the corner.I am giving my words that my support will be total till we achieve the desired victory. I will not only support with my music but every thing to make sure victory is ours"

Babajide Sanwoolu in his response said he is very delighted to receive K1 for his visit and he thank him for the vehicles.

"#SANWO-EKO....#EKO A SANWA OOO"

Ijoba IbileTv

EXCLUSIVE: Omo Better Concert To Hold As Small Doctor Regains Freedom

 AgegePulse Magazine

It is no longer news that ace music act, Adekunle Temitope popularly known as Small Doctor was recently arrested by officers of the Lagos State Police Command for unlawful possession of firearms, what Agegepulse reliably gathered is that the Omo Better crooner is now a free man again.

Sources close to Small Doctor revealed that he regained his freedom from the police custody yesterday afternoon after spontaneous intervention of well meaning Nigerians who were privy to the arrest.

Meanwhile, information reaching Agegepulse has it that the earlier planned live concert of Small Doctor will be staged as planned.

According to the manager of the Agegeborn star Temitope Adekunle music and fun lovers in Agege and environs will witness a first of its kind live performances from top Nigerian and African entertainers at the forthcoming Omo Better Concert.

According to the organisers who confirmed to AgegePulse, the concert will hold on Sunday 9th December, 2018 adding that sonorous and rave making music stars such as Pasuma, Olamide, Remininse, Mayorkun, Terry G, Reekado Bank, Mr. Easi, 9nice will lit up the stage with exquisite live performances.

Others include Korede Bello, Junior Boy, Vector, Oritshefemi, and Broda Shaggy.

Although, feelers around the penalty crooner are of the opinion that the concert may be postponed till further notice in order to water down the recent ugly incident, those who should know exclusively opened up to Agegepulse that fun lovers will enjoy epoch making musical feast inside the prestigious Agege Stadium come Sunday.

Also, it was reliably gathered that security operatives would be on ground to ensure maximum security.

For ticket and more details see banner or contact: 08026263626

People find it difficult to believe I sing in Yoruba– Nikki Spooner, American gospel artiste

AgegePulse Magazine

By Gloria Okezie-Okafor

Prior to the time of her encounter, she had no relationship with Nigeria, whether by family tie or any other. But she had always enjoyed listening to and watching juju maestro, King Sunny Ade, perform on stage. And she had no other desire than to meet him someday.

However, for American gospel singer, Nikki Spooner, the day finally came!

“After I met Oba Akran of Badagry, he asked me to perform at his 40th anniversary with King Sunny Ade. I was so excited I nearly passed out. I proudly took to the stage to sing with the king himself. I had dreamt of nothing else but to perform on stage with him. You know, liking someone enough to want to learn his language,” she recalled.

Spooner, a nurse, born of American parents and herself a mother of two, continued: “I love God and the music I was given by God was gospel music. I am honoured that God chose me to usher in cultural exchange in Nigeria.”

And she is also a Nollywood actress. “As for Nollywood, that was actually something I did for fun at first. I thought it was so much fun just being on set. Then I started making money and getting more serious and I am very blessed to be a part of the Nollywood industry, as it thrives and grows!”

Hearing Spooner sing in Yoruba, one would assume she was born into a Yoruba family, or even married to a Yoruba man. But none of that ever happened. And yes, she tells you: “I have two amazing kids from a serious relationship which lasted eight years. I love Nigeria – the good, the great, the bad, and the ugly. And I have no problem being in Nigeria.

“I am definitely at home with Nigeria and Nigerians, and I can assure you that I always take the good with the bad. There are awful experiences everywhere you go because life happens, and that’s the way I see it. Nigeria is only 58, and slowly growing day by day. I believe in the change that’s happening, and every year I come back, there is more and more good to praise God about.

“Nigeria is an amazing country. One thing I say often is that every- thing we lack in America, Nigeria has! So, I haven’t any bad word to say about Nigeria or Nigerians.”

Does her fellow country men feel the same way about Nigeria?

Her response: “I change the mind of Americans one person at a time! See, there’s no way you can please
everyone, but anytime someone gives me the chance to speak about Nigeria, I always tell them my truth, and that is that Nigeria is one of the best countries in the world.”

And if you think that was all, Spooner has more coming. “I launched my album last year, but ran into some issues which was why I didn’t send it to marketers, because people found it difficult to believe that a white woman was the one singing the (Yoruba) songs on the album, and without a video it would cause people to think twice before buying, as if it was a trick… So, I decided to hold it until I do the music video this December in Nigeria. So, please come back and ask me next year,” she said breaking into a guffaw.

Spooner has had the honour to feature at topnotch events, and even interacted with the likes of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and many more celebrities, including royal fathers and other dignitaries. According to her, Yoruba people are very accommodating and amazing.

“I have been so blessed to go all over Nigeria and meet people and experience things, even Nigerians I haven’t been able to see live! I pray that the cultural exchange programme will kick off in a big way so that during festival times, we can bring people from all over the world to experience it live as well. And my manager, Olamilekan and producer, Julie King have been working on a lot, and my calendar is already being booked up for December.

“The all white night out event holding on December 20 in Ikeja this year will be amazing, and you all aren’t gonna wanna miss it. Soji Omatayo is doing it really big this year, and award programmes as well as collaborations with other popular musicians. Sooo much going on! I am excited.”

Talking about her son, Spooner says: “My son, Fabian is just 18-years-old and is still in high school for his final year. He’s in marines training and I couldn’t be more proud as a mother. It’s all he has ever dreamed about and now he’s making his dreams come true.

I have always taught my kids to be what they want and follow their dreams because it’s usually God who orchestrates the big plans.”


Asked what she knew about former President Obasanjo, she says: “Obasanjo was a great leader with what he was handed, and in my opinion, every person put into office has but one chance to prove themselves and become transparent. His time is up now and he still has great influence but that’s the way great nations grow – by learning from the mistakes of the generation before and fixing the problems, not adding to them.”

Nikki Spooner still has a lot she hopes to do in Nigeria. She has performed on stage with notable Yoruba highlife and gospel artistes, and featured in a number of Nollywood flicks. Her pidgin is so perfect you would doubt she actually had to tutor herself. She is also learning how to speak Igbo.

I’ll work against Ogun APC gov candidate, says Amosun

Olusola Fabiyi and Tunji Bosun

The Ogun State Governor and the All Progressives Congress’ candidate for  the Ogun Central Senatorial District,  Ibikunle Amosun, on Monday said he would work against the governorship candidate of the APC, Dapo Abiodun, in the 2019 governorship poll.

Amosun said this while addressing a stakeholders’ meeting of the APC which was attended by his preferred governorship candidate and the candidate of the Allied People’s Movement, Adekunle Akinlade, at the Presidential Villa in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

As Amosun was addressing his supporters, a former state governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, at another venue described those against Abiodun’s candidacy as “disappointed” party members.

Amosun, however, said he would remain in the  APC to contest the senatorial seat and ensure the re-election of President Muhammadu Buhari.

He insisted that he was in support of the action of the APC aggrieved members who dumped the ruling party for the APM.

Amosun’s statement came as 26 aggrieved candidates of the APC loyal to him  announced their movement to the APM.

God won’t forgive me if I dump Akinlade –Amosun

Amosun, who said he had attempted to stop  the  defection of Akinlade and other aggrieved candidates to another party,  said  God would not forgive him if he had stopped  them from protecting the tickets given to them during the APC primaries.

The governor disclosed that some people, whose name he did not mention, had been begging him to ensure the unity of the party in the state.

He said his only condition to them was to return the name of Akinlade as the governorship candidate of the APC before any discussion could take place.

He said, “When these people came, they told me they were leaving the APC, I said ‘no’ but I couldn’t stop them. In fact, Akinlade has my full support. I am not going to stop him. Everything I have, I will use to support him, let them try whatever they want to try, we also have our strategies and I am not going to hide behind one finger.

“I remain in the APC because that’s what those people want. They want us to leave the APC but they are joking. I will stay in the APC to ensure that (President Muhammadu) Buhari wins in Ogun State and to let them know that they can’t subvert the will of the people of Ogun State.

“Every day, I will campaign for President Muhammadu Buhari, we will do everything possible to ensure Buhari wins massively in Ogun State, but they should not miss it. I , Senator Ibikunle Amosun, will not support anyone (Dapo Abiodun) they are bringing.

“Why would a reasonable person with less than 10 per cent lord  it over the majority?  It can’t happen.  They know there was only one primary and they have called me to say that, and we have done everything possible to right the wrong, but they are already destroying the party.

“God will punish me if I stop Akinlade. All of you who are supporting Akinlade, you have my support and blessing. They are talking about party supremacy, what happens to party supremacy at the local level?”

Political offices’ll be zoned – Osoba

However, Osoba promised that the APC would zone all political offices, if its governorship candidate, Abiodun, won the governorship election in 2019.

Osoba said this on Monday  at the formal unveiling of the APC governorship running mate, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele, held at his Abeokuta residence, saying  that the next APC administration in the state would place more premium on zoning all political offices in order to give members a sense of belonging.

According to him, it was the zoning arrangement of all political offices that made him disagree with Amosun.

He said he would not support a situation where a particular zone would benefit from the appointments to the disadvantage of the other two districts.

However, Osoba implored all the chieftains and members of the party to work in harmony.

He stated, “Whether they like it or not Dapo Abiodun has become the Ogun State APC governorship candidate. Those who don’t wish the APC well have been disappointed. The task has begun. We are in the midst of enemies and we should come together as one.

“I want to urge all, that we have just started. I am 80 years old and I am old enough to say things the way they are. We don’t want any group within the APC. It is an insult.

“We are just going into an election period and we should stop insulting our candidate.

“From now onward, let us be one. Leaders, don’t hold group meetings, but what you should be having is the APC meeting as a party and it should be for the governorship candidature of Dapo Abiodun.

“Three-quarter of your poster should bear the APC logo, a quarter for a candidate’s picture and another quarter for the party’s slogan.

“So, as we are moving today, disunity is over. We are fighting a vicious war and we should fight it within the purview of the APC constitution. Go and deliver your polling booths.”

Prominent leaders in attendance included the governorship standard bearer, Abiodun, the running mate, Salako-Oyedele, Senator Gbenga Kaka, Gbenga Obadara, Akin Odunsi, Dipo Odujinrin, Tunji Egbetokun, and Prince Segun Adesegun.

Governor’s loyalists defect to APM

Earlier on Monday no fewer than 26 loyalists of Amosun on Monday announced their defection from the APC to the APM.

The defectors were the aggrieved members of the APC who claimed to have won the legislative primaries of the APC  conducted by the state election committee appointed by the National Working Committee.

Addressing  journalists on behalf of other members, their spokesperson, Lamidi Olatunji, said they were declared winners by the committee chairman, Col. Ali Ciroma,(retd.), but were denied the Independent National Electoral Commission’s forms for nomination as the APC candidates by the party’s national leadership till it closed on December 2.

Okatunji  in his speech titled, “Why we are  leaving the APC for APM,” said, “After extensive and due consultations with our elders, members and stakeholders in the APC in Ogun State, we have come to the inevitable conclusion to seek the mandate of our people in the 2019 elections on the platform of the Allied People’s Movement.

“We wish to state that this is without prejudice to the progressive ideals which have endeared our candidature and our political group to the good people of Ogun State.”

He however said,” We regret that Mr President’s  efforts were frustrated by the forces  that are hell bent on taking the South-West  back to the  dark age of slavery where unelected kingpins direct the affairs of the people.

“We are committed to the second term of  President  Muhammadu Buhari and we are determined to deliver Ogun State to him in the presidential election come February 16, 2019 by the grace of God.

“We are going to work tirelessly for the election of Hon. Adekunle Akinlade who was overwhelmingly elected as the governorship candidate of the APC but denied  the ticket by the same forces that hijacked our tickets.”

Speaking on the roles of Amosun in their  defection, the group’s spokesperson exonerated the governor, saying they were old enough to take decisions  without the input of their boss.

He said, “Governor Amosun is still in the APC while we have moved to the APM. Governor Amosun has nothing to do with our decision to defect to APM.”

If we lose one person, three will join us – APC

But the national leadership of the APC said though it was pained to lose any of its members, three people would join the party in place of one defector.

The party said the gale of defections rocking it should not also be interpreted that reconciliation had failed among its members.

The ruling party said it was also wrong to assume that reconciliation was targeted at its three governors who had been accusing the national leadership of the party of bias in the conduct of party primaries in their states.

The governors are Rochas Okorocha of Imo State, Amosun  (Ogun State) and Abdulaziz Yari  (Zamfara State ).

The National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Mr Lanre Issa-Onilu, who spoke with one of our correspondents in Abuja on Monday, said the party would take solace in the fact that it was doing the right thing by its actions which he said were aimed at deepening democracy.

He said, “Reconciliation has not failed. The reconciliation we are carrying out is not because of three governors that were supposed to be aggrieved,  no. It is not because of them.

“The reconciliation committees were set up for all members irrespective of what level of primary they were involved in – whether House of Assembly,  whether House of Representatives.

“So, it was for everybody no matter what the grievances are. But a section of the media felt it was just because of just three people (governors).

“If it was just because of the three people,  we will not get about the 19 governors involved and other eminent personalities to be involved as well. That is not just for three people.

“At the end of the day, we know they will send in their reports and at the end of the day, many cases that were not reported will be discussed.”

Issa-Onilu said the defections would not affect the chances of the party’s presidential candidate, Buhari, in 2019.

He said the party would have preferred not to lose any of its members to any other rival political party.

But he said when defection happens, people would also find out why it happened.

He said, “The defections will not affect the chances of President Muhammadu Buhari winning the election. Like I said, we don’t want a single member to leave the party.

“But when it happens, the question we are going to ask ourselves is why did they do that?

“If at the end of the day, they left the party because the party decides to do the right thing,  we can only pat ourselves in the back, that despite pressure, we stay by the rule of law, we follow democracy.

“Though we won’t be happy that they have left, we will be happy that we are doing the right thing, we are promoting democracy.

“At the end of the day, we know that when one person leaves, three people will come in because that is what many people want.

“They want an atmosphere where the rules will be upheld and each is entitled to one vote and rules are the same and people are equal. Many Nigerians will be happy with that and they will find the APC the right place to go.

“So, when we lose one person, we know it is because we have done the right thing and three people are coming in.

“So, instead of affecting our chances, majority of Nigerians will join us.  We don’t have any reason to panic.”

Ballon d' Or: Modric Beats Ronaldo and Messi to Win Best Player Award

Luka Modric has closed the year off by winning the Ballon d’Or by ending the dominance of former teammate @CR7 & Lionel Messi who both refused to attend the event.

The total votes points are:

1 - Luka Modric (753 points)

2 - Cristiano Ronaldo (476)

3 - Antoine Griezmann (414)

4 - Kylian Mbappe (347)

5 - Lionel Messi (280)

6 - Mohamed Salah (188)
Congratulations 🎈🎉🍾🎊

OneLagos Fiesta: LASG Unveils Olamide, Teni, Mr Real, Humblesmith, Ayuba, Osupa, Other A-list Artistes For Concert

...Fiesta to attract Two Million Participants, 90Milliom Viewers Worldwide

AgegePulse Magazine

No fewer than two million direct participants and 90million viewers worldwide are expected to take part in this year’s edition of the flagship Yuletide end-of-the-year revue of the Lagos State Government, One Lagos Fiesta (OLF) holding from the eve of December 24, 2018 till the wee hours of January 1, 2019.



The State’s Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Steve Ayorinde who said this while addressing a press conference on Monday at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa, Ikeja to formally announce activities for this year’s show, said necessary arrangements have been firmed up to ensure another hugely successful outing.



Ayorinde, who briefed the media alongside senior officials of the State Government, some a-list artists billed to perform and representatives of sponsors, said the OLF would hold in five locations simultaneously across the State in line with the tradition adopted in the last four years, adding that it was gratifying that the event had become the biggest end-of-the-year entertainment brand in Africa as it provides an unparallel platform for residents and visitors, both old and young, to relax and enjoy themselves in a secured environment.



“As a Government, we are encouraged by the noticeable achievements recorded as a result of hosting this event and we are taking advantage of this year’s edition to fete millions of Lagosians who have supported this initiative running for the 4th consecutive year.



“The One Lagos Fiesta draws parallel with other international cross over events in the world especially in the countdown night of December 31, and with the unique features associated with the fiesta, it is anticipated to attract over 2million direct participants across the State and over 90million viewers via live television and live streaming on social media,” Ayorinde said.



He said considering the strategic position of Lagos as the economic and socio-cultural hub of Africa with vibrant expression of art, it had always been the tradition of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s administration to use such instrument as springboard to drive development and market the State’s potentials to domestic and foreign investors who would, in turn, contribute meaningfully towards making Lagos Africa’s model megacity.



Tagged ‘A December to Remember,’ the Commissioner said there would be live music concert, which will feature trending DJs and MCs and performances by popular Nigerian artistes and musicians running from 6.00p.m till 12 midnight across the five venues in Agege (Agege Stadium), Victoria Island (Bar Beach/Eko Atlantic City), Badagry (Badagry Grammar School), Epe (Epe Marina Waterfront) and Ikorodu (in Ikorodu Town Hall).



Other festivities, according to him, are kiddies corner, which would run from 12.00p.m to 6.00p.m with various activities like bouncing Castle, Rodeo Bull, Carrousels, among others, as well as cultural performances, stage plays and talent hunt, otherwise known as Lagos Grows Talent, a grassroots’ competition which provides a platform for youths to compete using their talents in the areas of music, dance, comedy and other creative activities.



Ayorinde also announced the introduction of a raffle draw as part of this year’s fiesta for the purpose of winning a brand new saloon car, courtesy of one of the partners, CIG Motors.



Giving details, he said: “The competition is open to only residents of Lagos State who are up to 18 years of age and are in possession of a valid Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC). Every individual that resides in Lagos and wishes to participate is a potential winner of the vehicle.



“Entries will open on Thursday, 6th December and close on Wednesday, 26thDecember 2018, and entries will be submitted strictly online through the OLF website, while the winner is expected to emerge through a raffle draw which will be conducted on the 31st December, 2018 at Eko Atlantic City venue. There are other consolation prizes to be won.”



 While thanking all the sponsors for supporting the vision of the present administration to scale up the entertainment and tourism potentials of the State via the OLF platform, Ayorinde also encouraged Lagosians and visitors to take advantage of the fiesta to experience and savour the attractions it brings whilst enjoying the fun that is available in all the venues, just as he assured that adequate measures have been put in place for security, traffic management, sanitation and health concerns to ensure safety of lives and property throughout the course of the fiesta.



Some of the a-list artistes expected to perform at this year’s OLF include Olamide, Teni, Slimcase, Mr Real, Humblesmith, Blackky, Mr P, Dr. Adewale Ayuba, Saheed Osupa, among many others.

Finally, Atiku gets US Visa

Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has finally been issued a visa to the United States, TheCable can report.

A family source disclosed this to TheCable on Saturday and confirmed that the former vice-president has left Nigeria for the UK, where he will spend some time before flying to the US.

TheCable also understands that former president Olusegun Obasanjo played a “critical” role in getting the American government to issue the visa to his former deputy with whom he was estranged for almost 15 years.

The trip marks another chapter in the controversy that has rocked the former vice-president for over a decade.

Atiku, who is widely travelled, has not been to the US in 13 years, intially fueling speculations that he might be avoiding possible arrest or prosecution.

His political opponents had used his absence from the US not just to taunt but to discredit him.

His row with the US authorities began after the FBI investigated a bribery scandal involving William Jefferson, former US congressman, in 2004.

Atiku was accused of demanding a bribe of $500,000 to facilitate the award of contracts to two American telecommunication firms in Nigeria.

The FBI had searched his residence in the posh neighbourhood of Potomac, Maryland, but no money was found.

The investigators had videotaped Jefferson, who was the congressman representing Louisiana, receiving $100,000 worth of $100 bills which he claimed was meant for Atiku, but the former vice-president has consistently denied the allegation.

Despite Atiku’s claim to innocence, the controversy raged.

Two months before he declared interest in the 2019 presidential race, Atiku granted an interview to Dele Mommodu, celebrity journalist, where he clarified his absence from the US.

“It is the sole prerogative of America to determine who they want in their country or not,” he said.

“I’m not running away from America. I applied but wasn’t issued a visa.”

He said the US did not categorically deny him visa.

“They’ve only said my application is going through administrative process,” he said.

Super Falcons win record ninth Awcon title

AgegePulse Magazine

Tochukwu Oluehi was the heroine as Nigeria claimed the African Women Cup of Nations for a record ninth time after defeating South Africa 4-3 on penalties following a tightly contested 120-minute draw in Accra, Ghana.

The Super Falcons goalkeeper was impressive throughout the encounter, before saving the decisive penalty to help her team beat Banyana Banyana.

Onome Ebi had missed Nigeria's first penalty of the shootout before Oluehi provided a stunning save to deny Linda Motlhalo, thus, securing victory for Nigeria.

Goal

Breaking: OPC Founder Fasehun is Dead

The founder of Odua Peoples Congress, Dr. Frederick Fasehun, has died, The PUNCH can exclusively report.

Fasehun, it was learnt, died in the early hours of Saturday at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja.

 

The octogenarian, it was learnt, was admitted at the Intensive Care Unit of the hospital on Tuesday where he remained until his demise.

Confirming his death to our correspondent on the telephone, Fasehun’s spokesman, Mr. Adeoye Jolaosho, said the late OPC founder was confirmed dead after a brief illness.

“It is true, baba died this morning at the ICU in LASUTH, Ikeja,” he said.

Fasehun was born in Ondo Town, Ondo State in 1938.

He was a medical doctor and hotel owner and was responsible for the recent revival of the Unity Party of Nigeria, a party formed by the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo in the 1970s.

He studied science at Blackburn College and furthered his education at Aberdeen University College of Medicine. He also studied at the Liverpool Postgraduate School after which he had a Fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons, according to Wikipedia.

In 1976, he studied acupuncture in China under a joint World Health Organization and United Nations Development Scholarship Program.

Have You Paid Bail Money To The Police In 2018? It's Illegal — And Your Refund is Ready | Sahara Reporters

"From January 2018 till date, we have also been able to return N7.5million collected from members of the public and Police officers have also been sanctioned. Bail is free no matter the offence. If the Police insists on taking money, call the PCRRU; we’re available 24/7," Shogunle said.

AgegePulse Magazine

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has said Nigerians who paid to secure bail should contact the Public Complaints Rapid Response Unit (PCRRU) for a refund.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Abayomi Shogunle, who also heads the PCRRU, stated this during an interview on Armed Forces Radio 107.7 FM.

According to Shogunle, the Police has returned N7.5million bail money to Nigerians in 2018.

His words: “As we always say, bail is free. You’re not expected to pay any [policeman] when you’re taking somebody on bail. But you know, just as we have almost everywhere, we have some bad eggs in the Police that have been misusing their official capacity; we’ve had reports to PCRRU.

"In the course of the first two years of PCRRU — between November 2015 and November 2017 — we were able to recover N11.1million bribe money, which includes bail money that has been collected from members of the public based on reports to us and the money was returned to the various owners.

"10 Police officers that were involved in this were dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force. And as at this year January 2018 till date, we have also been able to return N7.5million collected from members of the public and Police officers have also been sanctioned. Bail is free no matter the offence. If the Police insists on taking money, call the PCRRU; we’re available 24/7."

He also noted that details of complainants remain confidential.

BAIL IS FREE. @PoliceNG_PCRRU has recovered & returned ₦7.5m bail money to some Nigerians this 2018. Have you paid bail money to police? Call 08057000001-2 or WhatsApp/SMS 08057000003 to get a refund. Nos. also for distress call 24/7.

TOSHIBA, BLUEOCEAN LAUNCH NEW VRF AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM INTO WEST AFRICAN MARKET

…BLUEOCEAN Now Sole Merchants of Toshiba Air Conditioning Products in Nigeria, West Africa

AgegePulse Magazine 

Leading engineering company in Nigeria, Blueocean Technical Services Limited in conjunction with AHI Carrier (producers of Toshiba Heat and Ventilation Air Conditions) launches a new technology into the Nigeria Air Conditioning market – TOSHIBA Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF).

The Variable Refrigerant Flow systems (VRF), combine flexibility, energy efficiency and respect for the environment, with a wide choice of stylish units. This allows the air to be distributed evenly across the space, providing high efficiency and optimal comfort. With a special controller, the VRF regulates and operates the sequence of outdoor units and individual compressors for a simple and reliable experience for all users.

With the latest innovation from TOSHIBA, the days of hanging several outdoor units of Air Conditioning system across office or residential buildings are now over. The sophisticated VRF technology from Toshiba offers superior application flexibility and unrivalled capabilities. Unique from Toshiba every outdoor unit incorporates two new DC twin-rotary compressors and dual-inverter drives. The Inverter control operates with more and smaller steps (increase in control steps) and ensures a more precise and stable temperature desired by the occupant. The VRF technology allows just one central outdoor unit with supplies to all indoor units for pleasant cooling.

At the 4-days seminar organized by BLUEOCEAN and AHI for technical contractors and consultants in Abuja and Lagos, participants were put through the workability of the new Toshiba VRF Air Conditioning technology.

Iminder Singh, Regional Manager for Africa, AHI Carrier FZC the VRF Air Conditioning system boast of comprehensive range of trusted, energy efficient and industry leading solutions reduce operating costs and increase return on investment in an extensive range of applications including commercial and residential buildings, educational institutions, airports, healthcare, shopping malls, hotels, leisure facilities, oil and gas, and industrial applications.

“TOSHIBA’s association with Africa goes back several decades and throughout this relationship, we have remained committed to offering the latest technology and the most energy efficient solutions, unlike several others who enter African markets as a profit generation strategy towards the end of the product lifecycle.

“Our solutions are backed by unwavering design and engineering support that offer market leading operating efficiencies, reduce carbon footprints and compliment the sustainable development initiatives of the governments in the region. We are the proud guardians of 143 years of trust resulting from Toshiba’s philosophy of ‘Leading Innovation’ and remain pledged to empowering decision makers through developing and enhancing the local capabilities.’ Iminder Singh concluded.

Anupam Ghosal, Managing Director, Blueocean Technical Services Ltd., while speaking at the seminar said, “Blueocean believes in partnering with world renowned brands known for technological innovation and in line with that vision. We bring TOSHIBA to the doorstep of Nigerian and West African market to deliver energy saving cutting edge HVAC product and solutions to the region. We are committed to providing products, spares and technical support for Toshiba range of products to clients through our wide spread presence and network.”

Prasath .S, Senior Business Development Manager. “Our aim is to add sustainable value and ensure rapid ROI for our clients. We offer cutting-edge technology from Carrier Corporation and Toshiba, and are committed to empowering channel partners, consultants, contractors and decision makers by establishing clear and measurable standards of technology and performance. This will help clients in making the right decisions in favor of proven technology, higher efficiencies and lower operating costs.”

In addition, Babatunde Adisa, AGM, Blueocean Techical Service Limited assured that Blueocean is committed to bringing economical engineering solutions to the HVAC industry in Nigeria and West Africa at large. He asserted that Blueocean can boast of a very competitive price, services and stock availability with the partnership with TOSHIBA.

The Toshiba SMMS-e VRF that AHI Carrier offers in Africa is a leading example of market leading Japanese technology. The SMMS-e VRF finds its roots in 32 years of Toshiba’s dominance of VRF technology and comes standard with many global firsts - such as the new Wave Tool technology that facilitates remote monitoring, testing and commissioning through mobile devices through NFC technology. The tool works even under conditions of power failure or service shutdown.

SMMS-e machines use innovative DC Twin Rotary Inverter technology with infinity variable control. The units feature advanced variable heat exchanger technology which increases operational efficiency by enabling the system to smart select the most efficient heat exchanger size based on cooling load. Toshiba SMMS-e VRF units offer several other market leading features such as piping lengths of up to 1000 meters, maximum drops of up to 90m, precise refrigerant control, dependable back-up operation and advanced new blade design. 

The well attended 4-days Product & Technology Seminar by Blue Ocean Technical Services Limited in collaboration with AHI Carrier was held in Abuja and Lagos from 27th to 30th of November, 2018 for eminent consultants and contractors from Nigeria, Ghana and the Ivory Coast. 

Blue Ocean Technical Services Limited is the only Nigerian company in the field of Specialty Engineering Services to provide a full version solution across all segments in the field of design, supply, installation and maintenance of Residential and Commercial Air-conditioning, Extra Low Voltage Electronic Safety and Security, Solar Power Systems, Lifts and Escalators, Water Treatment, Sewage Treatment, Waste Management, Hospital Engineering Services etc. 

The company's headquarters is situated at 23, Ladipo Oluwole Street, Oba Akran, Ikeja, Lagos. 

IT’S TIME FOR WOMEN TO RISE ABOVE ‘WEAKER SEX’ TAG- AMBODE

...Says Women Key To Nigeria’s Transformation

 AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Friday urged women to rise above all forms of discriminations and ‘weaker sex’ tag and truly play their role as change agents, saying such was necessary to transform Nigeria starting from the family unit.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 2018 National Women’s Summit of Oyo State Officials’ Wives Association (OYSOWA) held at University of Ibadan Conference Centre, Governor Ambode said it was important for the Nigerian women to recognize the fact that the world was changing, and that they must use their influence to bring about positive change that would in turn cascade into every strata of the society. 



According to the Governor, “The world is changing everyday and women are now in the forefront of things. Women are now agents of change and are no longer referred to as the “weaker sex”.



“So, they must never see themselves as oppressed or discriminated against. Every woman can be an agent of change. The society is built on a small unit called the family where the woman has great influence.



“From the family unit, every woman can initiate or spark change which can cascade upwards to every level and every sector of the nation. With focus, determination and perseverance, you can transform yourselves, your families, your communities and our country, against all odds,” he said.



Governor Ambode, who described the theme of the summit – ‘Against All Odds’, as apt, said it was important for women to appreciate the fact that it is possible for one to attain any goal despite challenges.



“There will always be odds facing us; odds against our aspirations, our dreams, our objectives. But we cannot use these as excuses. The world we live in today does not take excuses. The world does not recognize efforts but results. So, against all odds, we must push forward, with a strong desire, and determination to succeed.



“I know our women face a lot of odds. Different, difficult challenges come your way every day. But my message to you today; and I am sure that is the message of this Summit, is that you can overcome all the challenges and triumph in all your endeavours,” Governor Ambode said.



He particularly urged participants at the summit to take practical steps to apply the lessons learnt from the very enlightening, engaging and inspiring sessions, saying the success of the conference largely depended on their individual abilities to translate the values gained positively, starting from their respective homes and families, to the larger society.



“At this critical period of our nationhood, your ability to adapt yourself to the current challenges will inevitably transform our society,” he added.



Besides, Governor Ambode commended the convener of the summit and wife of Oyo State Governor, Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, saying it was on record that many lives have been positively transformed in all communities in the State through the OYSOWA initiative.

In his remarks earlier, Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi commended Governor Ambode for bringing pivotal professional into governance, saying being a professional all his life, the Governor of Lagos had exemplified such in his dealings.

He also commended women in the State for standing by their husbands against all odds.

YULETIDE: YOU MUST OUTSMART CRIMINAL ELEMENTS, AMBODE TELLS SECURITY AGENCIES

…To Set Up Special Task Force To Tackle Street Begging

…Police Foil 233 Robbery Incidents, Recover 701 Ammunitions In One Year, Says CP



Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Wednesday urged security agencies to take practical steps to be ahead of criminal elements and as well build on the successes recorded so far in making the State the safest in Africa.

Speaking at the 12th Town Hall Meeting on Security organised by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), Governor Ambode said though the security agencies deserved commendations for their efforts in securing the State, but that more strategies and policies have to be adopted to outsmart hoodlums especially during the yuletide season as well as the electioneering period now that the country is approaching the general elections in 2019.



He said in the last few years, a lot of investment had been made in securing the State which had paid off, but that more investments needed to be made to further enhance the security architecture of the State.



According to him, “Has our investment paid off, I would say yes it has. Have we really invested enough in terms of security, the answer is no and the truth is it can never be enough and so it is not a matter of we are getting there but it is an everyday thing.



“As long as we want to go out in the night, as long as we want to enjoy Christmas and have night out, these other good guys (men of the underworld) are thinking about us and so we have to be two steps ahead of them all the time in terms of strategy and reforms we need to make.



“So, obviously we need to think about how to outsmart them and believe me this is their season and so we need to smart up and be vigilant and that is the message because they are not going to relent and again, election is coming and they can be easy tools; so we need to outsmart them,” Governor Ambode said.



He said it was gratifying that the huge investment in security had positively reflected in the State, but that more investment would have to be made especially in the area of technology, just as he assured that his administration would continue to do that, while also expressing optimism in the ability of the Governorship candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu to sustain the policy.



“Our return on investment has been very good to the point that Lagos is right now the safest city in Africa, and then the collaboration of the LSSTF with the private sector has been wonderful but again we need to increase investment in technology and also communication kits.



“I reiterate that we will continue to support security agencies and I also believe strongly this is one of the programmes that I met and I believe strongly that Mr Sanwo-Olu will continue in this same direction,” Governor Ambode said.



Responding to issues raised by participants at the meeting especially on the increase in number of beggars on the road with attendant security risk, the Governor said government was already perfecting plans to set up a Special Task Force consisting of plain cloth personnel to prevent security breach. 



“Lagos is a victim of its own success. Many people are coming to Lagos in droves and this is November/December meaning that more people are coming into Lagos but we are having the same capacity that was used to manage twelve million people and now using same to manage twenty-three million people and so, obviously do we stop being successful, the answer is no but we need to now stretch ourselves to be able to manage our success and also create more facilities to be able to do that.



“What we are trying to do is to set up a Task Force for this December/January and the campaign period to see how we can use plain cloth people to mix with police officers and the LASTMA (Lagos State Traffic Management Authority) officials without people realizing that they are there to mitigate some of these things,” he said.



He added that the government would also explore collaboration between the police and the judiciary to expeditiously deal with the menace posed by area boys and hoodlums, saying such was necessary in the larger interest of the State, while also directing the Neighbourhood Safety Corps to extend their activities deep into the communities across the State to deepen security.



While appreciating donors who have contributed to the security architecture of the State, the Governor said it was important for more emphasis to be placed on enforcement, adding that the people must also endeavor to give out information to security agencies promptly.



“I want to say a big thank you to all those who have made Lagos very peaceful. The most important part of this assignment is to make sure that Lagos continues to be safe. Making Lagos safe technically means we are growing the GDP of Lagos because once the city is safe, we can increase production, more people would pay their taxes and then we can use the money to improve on infrastructure; and then the city grows and people live a more comfortable life



“We must continue to lay emphasis on enforcement and we continue to make sure that the things that we are doing are correct. I can promise the people that with everything that we have, we would make sure that we have a very good end of the year and ensure that Lagos remains very peaceful.



“Security is a collective responsibility and we must all contribute for the safety and security of lives and property. Everybody must be vigilant and report strange things around us promptly. That is the only way we can continue to secure the State,” the Governor said, just as he advocated reform in the funding model for security to bring about sustainable framework.



In his presentation, the State’s Commissioner of Police, Mr Imohimi Edgal commended Governor Ambode for his massive investment and commitment to security of lives and property, saying the achievements recorded by the Command were largely due to the support of the State Government.



He said in tackling the security threats from the creeks, it was instructive to note that the Governor recently approved the procurement of six additional gunboats to effectively police the waterways, among other interventions by the State Government.



On crime statistics in the State from November 2017 to September 2018, the CP said 233 robbery incidents were foiled by the police in the last one year, while 701 arms and ammunitions were recovered, with nine kidnappers and 669 cultists arrested in various parts of the State.



He said 290 armed robbers were arrested with 15 dead during encounter with the police, while a total of 186 murder cases and 43 suicide/attempted suicide cases were recorded.



However, the CP said one police officer was lost during the period under review. 



SIGNED

HABIB ARUNA

C

BREAKING: Buhari approves reduction in cost of JAMB, NECO forms

AgegePulse Magazine

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved a reduction in the cost of forms for final year secondary school and post-secondary school examinations.

This was made known by the president’s aide on new media, Bashir Ahmad.

According to Mr Ahmad, the cost of Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) forms has been reduced from N5,000 to N3,500 while the cost of National Examination Council (NECO) forms was reduced from N11,350 to N9,850.

The reduction takes effect from January 2019.

JAMB has been making hundreds of millions of naira profit since its new leadership headed by Ishaq Oloyede assumed office; leading many Nigerians to demand a reduction in the cost of forms.

More details later…

Premium Times

BREAKING: Okorocha’s In-law, Uche Nwosu dumps APC for DPP

Information reaching Lagos reporters this morning reveals that Chief of Staff and In-law to Governor Rochas Okorocha, Uche Nwosu has dumped the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC for the Democratic Peoples’ party, DPP.

Nwosu alongside Okorocha’s aides and members of the state house of assembly defected on Tuesday. This development is arising from the refusal of the APC to field Nwosu as the party’s Gubernatorial aspirant in the upcoming state governorship elections.

Okorocha, who spoke with journalists at the Government House, Owerri, however, promised to work for the victory of Nwosu as the next governor of the state in 2019 even as he remained in the APC as its candidate for Orlu Senatorial District.

He also accused the APC governorship candidate in the state, Senator Hope Uzodinma, of duping the deputy governor, Mr. Eze Madumere, former Secretary to the State Government, Mr. George Eche, and his predecessor, Mr. Jude Ejiogu, from the governorship ticket.

According to him, what happened in APC primaries in many states presents interesting scenario as the party he said is known for justice, equity and fairness has been dented by the National Chairman, Mr. Adams Oshiomhole.

He said, “What happened in Imo was a clear case of injustice, where Uche Nwosu won the primary and was robbed of the ticket. This injustice must be addressed. However, in spite of the fact that my aides are leaving the party, I am still a member of APC and will not leave the party.

“I tried to persuade them not to leave, but they have made up their minds. I have done what I can to make them remain in the party, they disobeyed me. I don’t have any moral justification to stop them.

“President Buhari is not behind the injustice done by the party in the state but Oshiomhole is solely responsible for all the injustice meted to my people in Imo State.

For me, I am still a member of APC. Buhari still remains my candidate and I will support him.”

Okorocha maintained that Imo people did not play politics of party but politics of individual, revealing that the people’s interest in APC was by his own making.

He contended that among the various governorship candidates in the state, his son-in-law, Nwosu, remained the best and vowed to support him to fulfill his governorship ambition.

LR

AMBODE PRESENTS CHEQUES TO 2,000 BENEFICIARIES OF EMPLOYMENT TRUST FUND

…I’m fulfilled Initiative Is Meeting Set Objectives, Says Gov

…As Fund Disburses N7bn To 10,000 SMEs, Creates 25,000 Jobs In Three Years

AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday presented cheques to another batch of over 2,000 beneficiaries of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) loan programme, saying it was gratifying that the initiative was meeting the objectives of creating jobs and contributing to the growth of the economy.

This is in addition to the over 10,000 beneficiaries who have received more than N7billion and have created over 25,000 new jobs in the last three years.



Speaking at the presentation ceremony held at LTV Blue Roof, Agidingbi, Ikeja, Governor Ambode expressed fulfillment that the initiative, which is a brain child of his administration, had positively impacted many Lagosians and help to scale up entrepreneurship with many businesses now thriving. 

“Today is a historic day. It is one of those days that we have this fulfillment that we tried our hands on something that was never done before and years after, we are able to see the result and I just want to say a big thank you to all of you that have accepted to be partners in this programme and to just congratulate ourselves that a day like this can come in Lagos State.



“I am particularly delighted to be here today to see for myself the manifestation of a small dream we had at the inception of this government and the little seed we have sown in the lives and businesses of Lagosians. The Employment Trust Fund was a promise we made to Lagosians in 2015 and today, I am happy to see the faces of the people whose lives and aspirations have been positively impacted by this programme,” Governor Ambode said.



While noting the positive difference the beneficiaries of the scheme were making in the State, the Governor said the wonderful stories about the initiative were the true outcomes of governance, saying the vision was to use it to grow Lagos economy by supporting entrepreneurship, which in turn, would help to create jobs for unemployed residents.



The Governor said in line with his promise of inclusive governance, the beneficiaries of the LSETF programmes range from the youth to senior citizens in active business across all 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Community Development Areas (LCDAs) in this State, adding that the positive stories emanating from beneficiaries were pleasing to note.



“A very big validation of this programme we have embarked upon comes from the over 25,000 new direct jobs created directly by these businesses in our State. This does not include the multiplier effect of those businesses on the Lagos economy and the indirect jobs created.



“Apart from the jobs being created, I am especially pleased to see testimonials from some of our beneficiaries. I watched the video of Ibrahim Shuaib; a final year student of Dentistry at the Lagos State University Medical School. With a loan of N250,000, Ibrahim has not only grown his dry-cleaning business, employing over 20 people, but also started another business which his sister runs.



“I also read about Femi Oyedipe, whose chocolate production business, Loshes Chocolate, can now produce ten times more than before, employing more Lagosians as staff. Apart from employing more people, Loshes Chocolate makes it products from cocoa beans sourced from Ondo State, creating value for farmers outside Lagos. This is a very good example of the inter-state economic partnership Nigeria needs to grow its economy,” Governor Ambode said.



Aside the loan, the Governor said he was also proud of another programme of the LSETF known as the Lagos Employability Support Programme being executed in partnership with the United Nations Development Fund (UNDP), revealing that 3,363 unemployed youth have so far been trained out of the 10,000 target, with over 1,100 of them now either employed or running their own businesses.



On efforts of the LSETF to make Lagos the leading destination for Africa’s most exciting tech talent and start-ups, the Governor said it was pleasing to note that under the Lagos Innovates Programme, 75start-ups have been awarded workspace vouchers which provide their businesses with access to excellent infrastructure and a community where they can incubate and pursue their dream of becoming Africa’s emerging unicorns, without bearing the associated cost, adding that a loan had equally been awarded to one of the leading hubs, to expand and incubate more technology start-ups in the Lagos environs.



Giving a breakdown of the loans and women participation, the Governor said: “Our commitment to women is evident in the number of women who are beneficiaries of the programmes of this Fund. Before today we had a total of 3,652 female loan beneficiaries to the 4,280 male loan beneficiaries. Under our Lagos Employability Support Programme, women represent 49% of the total number of young people that LSETF has trained while in our Lagos Innovates programme which supports a tech ecosystem dominated by men, 21% of the beneficiaries are women.



“In spite of this, the Fund has assured me of their work to increase the level of female participation across all programmes, especially within Lagos Innovates,” he said.



While charging the beneficiaries to use the funds to grow their businesses and pay back as at when due, Governor Ambode also expressed optimism about the sustainability of the scheme, saying it was instructive that the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu had already expressed commitment to the initiative.



Besides, the Governor commended the Chairman, Executive Secretary, Board members and Staff of the LSETF for a job well done and translating the dream of his administration to reality and bringing the scheme to Lagosians.



In her welcome remarks, LSETF Board of Trustees Chairman, Mrs Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru said the presentation of cheques was another milestone in the journey of providing financial support to micro, small and medium enterprises for economic growth and job creation.



While appreciating various agencies and institutions who partnered with the LSETF to bring about the successes so far recorded, Omoigui-Okauru also urged others to take a cue from such by collaborating where and when necessary to further advance the objectives of the initiative.



Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr Adeoye Olumide of Jetco Global Farms whose company was granted N3.750million loan, said aside that he applied and got the loan without knowing anybody in government, the multiplier effect of the scheme was amazing as more people would be employed to his business.



“This is so unbelievable and it is so amazing. The domino effect on the entire value chain with this empowerment is very laudable and very commendable,” Olumide said.



S

WE’LL DELIVER MAJOR ONGOING PROJECTS ON SCHEDULE, LAGOS ASSURES RESIDENTS

…Orders Contractors To Speed Up Work

AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State Government on Sunday ordered contractors handling major ongoing projects across the State to speed up work to bring relief and comfort to motorists and residents, assuring that no efforts would be spared to ensure the delivery of the projects on schedule.

Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr Adebowale Akinsanya who said this after embarking on extensive inspection tour of ongoing projects in the State, said the government was not oblivious of the difficulties being experienced by motorists, adding that concerted efforts were on to seriously bring it under control.

He said with the rains subsiding, Lagosians should expect increased pace of work by contractors handling various projects, just as he assured that the State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode was seriously committed to the delivery of the projects.

According to him, “I have just inspected the progress of work on Airport Road, Pen Cinema Flyover, Oshodi Transport Interchange, Onikan Stadium, Oshodi-Abule-Egba Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project and JK Randle Centre For Yoruba Culture and History.

“The inspection tour is at the instance of His Excellency the Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode who has equally given contractors handling various projects across the State matching orders to expedite work.

“You see, with the rains subsiding, the State Government is leaving no stone unturned to rev up the projects and bring the truly deserved comfort to the people as well as improve on the aesthetics of the State and that is why all hands are on deck to ensure completion of the projects on schedule,” Akinsanya said.

He said the projects were deliberately embarked upon to align the State with the league of cities with world class infrastructures thus making Lagos to be globally competitive, adding that the gains of the investment of the present administration in provision of critical infrastructure would soon be positively felt on a large scale in all sectors.

On the traffic situation, the Commissioner said while potholes were being fixed day and night, the traffic management team of the State Government had equally jerked up activities, adding that other initiatives were being put in place to address the situation with the urgency required.

“As I speak to you, the Public Works Corporation has intensified their rehabilitation of potholes across the State. We were initially held back by the rains, but with the dry season now, more roads have been covered in the last one month and we appeal to Lagosians to be patient, if you have not seen them in your area, they will get their soon,” he assured.

Nigeria 'Headquarters of Poverty in the World' says Sanusi

AgegePulse Magazine

The Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, has lamented that the richest man in Africa is from Nigeria and ironically, the country “is also the poverty capital of the world”.

According to him, Nigeria had no basis for spending $3billion to $4billion annually on fuel subsidy.

Speaking at the launch of “From Frying Pan to Fire”, written by the Chairman of ThisDay Editorial Board, Mr. Olusegun Adeniyi in Abuja on Thursday, Sanusi claimed Nigeria is now the headquarters of poverty in the world.

The monarch said: “If you come to Abuja Airport, it is filled with private jets. If you land in Abuja you will think Nigeria is a very rich country. We have beautiful roads and bridges; we have everything in Abuja.

“Go to the rural areas and see the large number of Nigerians there. It is a completely different world. It is a sad case and we need to deal with that. We must also remember that the discourse is not just a humanitarian discourse and it is not value-free.”

He also spoke of a mismanaged economy and misplaced priorities, stressing that subsidy funds should be spent on education, power and industry to create jobs.

In his view, Africans need jobs and they need a life to stop them from migrating to other continents.

Sanusi, however, said global inequality accounted for the migration crises being experienced in Europe, America and even Nigeria.

Native Reporter s

A look at projects in Lagos State that may suffer after Ambode’s exit

AgegePulse Magazine

It is no longer news that Governor Akinwumi Ambode failed in securing his party’s ticket for the next gubernatorial election and by implication, the current administration in Lagos State comes to an end on May 29 2019 when a new administration will be sworn in.

As party campaigns for the next year’s elections gather momentum, there are growing concerns among the business community over the fate of some current government policies in areas of infrastructural projects, and job creation initiatives.

In this article, Nairametrics takes a look at some ongoing projects vis-a-vis policies under threat with the exit of the present administration in Lagos State next year.

When the Ambode-led government came on board, he stated that the project would be delivered to Lagos residents in 12 months. That deadline fell on July 2016; in fact, five months after he promised to deliver the project, he shifted the goalpost and said it would be completed in December 2016. But by November 2016, the governor made another volte-face, extending the date of completion to sometime before the end of 2019.

Ongoing Road Projects 

A visit to some major road project sites such as the Murtala Muhammed Airport road, Pen Cinema Bridge in Agege, and Iyana Ipaja road shows that the pace of work has slowed down significantly.

The Lagos State Government had promised to deliver the Oshodi-Airport Road in 15 months. It was to be expanded from four to 10 lanes and work commenced in September 2017. The Agege Pen Cinema Bridge has a December 2018 completion date.

Sadly, with the current pace of work on these projects, there are doubts over the ability of the present government to deliver before the expiration of this administration, while residents of these areas continue face untold hardships daily.

Light Up Lagos Power Project 

The Ambode-led government launched the “Light-Up Lagos Project” which was conceived to light up major highways and streets in the Lagos metropolis with the aim of boosting commercial activities, enhancing security, and improving the aesthetics of the state and living standards for residents.

The project which has three segments (Light up Lagos Advisory Committee, Community Electrification, and the Street Lighting Initiative) was greeted with high hopes among residents, but most highways in Lagos are still in total darkness.

Early this year, the Lagos State government signed a N2.52 billion partnership agreement with a UK firm to construct 10,000 LED street lights covering 300km across the state. Lagosians still await the execution of this project.

The Cleaner Lagos Initiative 

Waste management has been a major challenge in the state. The Ambode administration, through the Ministry of Environment, introduced the Cleaner Lagos Initiative and subsequently appointed Visionscape Sanitation Solution Limited, as its strategic partner for the deployment of waste management infrastructure in the state.

Subsequently, the State Executive Council passed a resolution to secure the financing structure adopted by Visionscape and its partners to raise up to N50 billion in bonds for the implementation of the CLI through the issuance of an Irrevocable Standing Payment Order (ISPO) as a charge on the State Internally Generated Revenue Account/ Environmental Trust Fund. The company thereafter raised an initial first tranche of its bond issuance, a N27 billion at 17.5% fixed rate with a five-year maturity due 2022.

Visionscape

Currently, there is an ominous future for Visionscape. Last week, the company vowed to suspend its operation following attacks by residents on its staff and equipment as a result of political outcomes in the state.

Lagos State Employment Trust Fund

One of the high points of the Ambode administration is the establishment of the Code Lagos Initiative and the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund. The fund was established to provide financial support to residents of the state, for job, wealth creation, and to tackle unemployment. The fund is expected to create 300,000 direct and 600,000 indirect jobs within a period of three years by supporting at least 100,000 MSMEs in the state. It is, however, not certain if a new administration will continue with these laudable initiatives.

Way forward

Ideally, Government should be a continuum, where an incoming administration continues with the projects and policies of the preceding administration, but this is not the case in the Nigerian political landscape as several projects are starved of funds immediately a new government comes into power. The Ambode administration also scrapped several policies and projects of the Fashola administration.

Sadly, the list of abandoned projects and policy somersaults in the state are endless, all of which are not good signals to investors. Recall that the Lagos State Government terminated a PPP arrangement it entered with Lekki Concession Company, LCC, which could have seen it fund the construction of the Lekki-Epe Expressway and recoup its investment through tolling on the road over a period of 30 years. The government had to buy back the concession agreement by way of buying back the company.

Whichever way the pendulum swings at the next governorship election in the state, the new administration should act maturely by improving the existing infrastructure in the state. The race of making Lagos a “smart city” can only be achieved if there is consistent improvement of infrastructure in the state.

Copied!