Press Release: Buhari Approves Committee To Rebuild Communities Affected by Herdsmen-Farmers Conflicts
In line with the administration’s commitment towards finding permanent solutions to the herdsmen-farmers clashes in some parts of the country, President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the formation of a new Committee to look into the rebuilding of communities affected by the violence in the affected states.
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, announced the approval today at the monthly meeting of the National Economic Council, of which he is chairman.
The Committee, which would be headed by the Vice President, will also find ways of providing welfare and other needed facilities in these communities.
“The President has asked me to head the committee,” Prof. Osinbajo announced to the State governors, who constitute membership of NEC, alongside the CBN Governor.
Similarly, the Council was briefed on the activities of the NEC Working Group.
The Working Group was set up at the last NEC meeting in accordance with the President’s commitment to bring all perpetrators of violence to book.
Since then, the Group has met twice and formed a technical Sub-Committee, headed by Ebonyi State Governor, which has been given the assignment of consultations with some of the affected communities.
The Vice President noted that the Federal Government will not impose on State Governments, but would share templates on best practices for the conduct of livestock production and business.
Some of the recommendations of the Working Group include the need for joint Military-Police Operation to manage violent outbreak where required while also calling for more efficient intelligence gathering.
Similarly, the Working Group called for the use of the Military force to flush out bandits whose activities have been linked to the clashes, and also for active engagement with traditional leaders to foster peace in their communities.
It further recommended the training of an Agro Rangers Corps to provide security around ranches, livestock production centres and grazing routes.
Press Release: Boko Haram Membership Thinning Out-President Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari Tuesday in Abuja said the era of Boko Haram terrorism is gradually drawing to end, with the narrowing of the recruitment base of the insurgents, and renewed onslaught by the Nigerian Army.
Receiving the Letter of Credence of Apostolic Nuncio of the Holy See to Nigeria, Most Rev. Archbishop Antonio Guido Filipazzi, at the State House, President Buhari said the terrorist group had lost appeal in its initial strongholds, necessitating a steady retreat that will eventually culminate in ending the insurgency.
“You can’t indoctrinate people who are below the age of 14 years and blow up churches, mosques, markets and you keep shouting God is great.
“It is either you don’t know what you are saying, or you simply don’t care or believe what you are saying. It is part of our success story that Boko Haram is finding it more difficult to recruit people.
“The Nigerian Army is also not making it easy for them to grow, with more intelligence, orientation and regular, measured onslaught on their camps,’’ he said.
The President said the ongoing effort to dismember the terrorist group, and render it completely powerless will be intensified.
President Buhari, who described the Catholic Church as a strong partner in the development of Nigeria, noted that the church had made very significant contributions to the development of the educational and health system of the country.
On corruption, the President said the fight against the culture of pilfering public funds would be prolonged, and would require a new orientation by repositioning the entire educational system.
“I am pleased that the African Union has spoken out boldly against corruption and appreciated the work that we are doing here,’’ President Buhari told the Archbishop.
In his remarks, the Archbishop Filipazzi said the Holy Father, Pope Francis, had taken a keen interest on the fight against terrorism, corruption and reviving of the Nigerian economy.
“Mr. President, the Holy Father, sends his warm greetings and he is keen to denounce corruption everywhere,’’ he added.
The Apostolic Nuncio said he had travelled to the North East and was pleased with the efforts of the Nigerian Army in tackling the insurgents, and recovering some of the earlier lost grounds.
President Buhari also received Letters of Credence from the Ambassador of Niger to Nigeria, Mr. Alat Mogaskia and the High Commissioner of Ghana, Alhaji Rashid Bawa.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity)
February 13, 2018
Press Release: President Buhari Mourns Senator Shagaya
President Muhammadu Buhari is profoundly saddened to learn of the tragic accident that took the life of Senator John Shagaya.
President Buhari offers his heartfelt condolences to the Shagaya family, friends, the Government and people of Plateau State on the painful passing of their illustrious son.
The President pays tribute to the great Nigerian whose legacies will live on in the patriotic work he did as a military officer, who rose to the position of a General, and a distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic that ably represented the Plateau Southern zone.
The President affirms that at each step of his distinguished career in national service and politics, General Shagaya brought his deep convictions and discipline to national, regional and community assignments and was ready to always offer his best to the development and stability of the country.
President Buhari prays that God Almighty will comfort all who mourn him and grant his soul eternal rest.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity)
February 11, 2018
Press Release: President Buhari Approves Retirement, Dismissal of Justices
Following recommendations from the National Judicial Council (NJC), President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the compulsory retirement of Honourable Justice A. F. A Ademola of the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court and the dismissal from office of Honourable Justice O.O Tokode of the Benin Division of the Federal High Court.
The disciplinary actions on the two Justices are in pursuance of section 292 (1) (b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
Justice O.O. Tokode is also to refund all salaries and allowances earned illegally from 2nd December, 2015 when he was sworn-in as a Judge of the Federal High Court to date.
The President urges judicial officers to be alive to their responsibilities and eschew corruption in the discharge of their duties.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
Media & Publicity
February 9, 2018
Factsheet: Federal Response to the Attacks and Killings by Herdsmen in Benue and other States.
Background
Insinuations and allegations that the attacks and killings are happening because President Buhari is Fulani are both unkind and incorrect. These attacks long predated the Buhari Government. In 2013 no fewer than nine cases of herdsmen attacks were recorded in Benue State alone, with more than 190 people killed. In 2014 there were no fewer than 16 recorded attacks, in Benue, which claimed more than 230 victims. Between January and May 2015, six attacks left more than 300 people dead, again in Benue State alone.
This historical context is important for a proper understanding of the issue, and to avoid unnecessarily politicizing what should be regarded and dealt with as acts of criminality. These attacks have been a longstanding issue, and successive governments have struggled to contain the situation.
The Buhari Administration is more than fully committed to bringing the cycle of violence to an end, prosecuting the attackers, and preventing further killings and attacks. President Buhari has condemned the killings in Benue and other parts of the country and stands by his earlier directives to security agencies that all those behind wanton killings in any part of the country must be brought to book. The security agencies also have standing instructions to arrest and prosecute any and all persons found with illegal arms.
Federal Interventions
The recent killings in Benue and Taraba States have elicited the following Federal responses:
1. President Buhari has met with the Governor of Benue State on the matter, to assure him of the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting farmers and communities.
2. President Buhari has directed the Inspector General of Police to relocate to Benue State.
3. On Monday January 8, 2018, the Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Dambazau, convened a security meeting on the issue, bringing together Federal and State government officials: Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Heads of security agencies, and the Governors of the most affected States: Adamawa, Benue, Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Taraba.
4. On Wednesday January 10, 2018, the IG held a Stakeholders engagement with the Benue State Government, elders, community, religious and traditional leaders etc
5. Since the first week of January, immediately following the January 1 attacks, the Inspector General of Police has deployed the following to the affected areas:
· Ten (10) Units of the Police Mobile Force
· Ten (10) Units of Police Special Forces (‘Tactical Operation Units’)
· Counter Terrorism Units
· Conventional Policemen.
· Police Explosive Ordinance Department (EOD)
· Special Police Joint Intelligence and Investigation Teams
· Police Aerial Surveillance Teams (Police Helicopters)
6. Five (5) Mobile Police Units deployed to protect IDPs in neighbouring Nasarawa State.
7. The Nigerian Army has deployed Special Forces to Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa States.
8. In Benue State, eight (8) suspected herdsmen are in Police custody over the recent killings, and are currently being prosecuted.
9. The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is working to establish cattle colonies across the country, in 2018. These colonies will provide grass and water for the cattle, and education and healthcare facilities for herders. They will also have Agro-Rangers deployed to secure the facilities.
10. On January 15, 2018, various past and present Benue state government officials, traditional elders and members of the House of Assembly gathered for a security meeting with the President on measures to curb violence in the state.
11. The Vice President has refuted claims that he had prior knowledge on attacks of alleged herdsmen in Logo and Guma LGAs of Benue state on Januray 1, 2018 without acting on it. Full press statement HERE.
12. On January 18, 2018, the National Economic Council, which is chaired by the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, set up a committee to address the issues of conflict and violence between herdsmen and farmers in the country.
13. It was announced on February 7, 2018 that the Nigerian Army will begin an operation exercise called Exercise Ayem Akpatuma. The exercise is to run from February 15 – March 31, 2018 and cover Benue, Taraba, Kogi, Nasarawa, Kaduna and Niger states to tackle the cases of kidnappings, and herdsmen/farmers’ clashes.
Press Release: President Buhari Signs Instruments of Ratification of Bilateral Air Services Agreements with Algeria, Congo, China, Qatar and Singapore
Following the approval of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), President Muhammadu Buhari Monday in Abuja, signed the Instruments of Ratification of the Bilateral Air Services Agreements between the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Governments of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria; the Republic of Congo; the People’s Republic of China; the State of Qatar and the Republic of Singapore.
With the execution of these Instruments, it is expected that Nigeria’s aviation links with the respective countries will improve significantly.
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President (Media & Publicity)
February 5, 2018.
Press Release: President Buhari Signs Executive Order to Improve Local Content in Science, Engineering and Technology Procurement
President Muhammadu Buhari Monday in Abuja signed Executive Order 5 to improve local content in public procurement with science, engineering and technology components.
[Download the Executive Order here: Presidential Executive Order 05-2018]
The Executive Order is expected to promote the application of science, technology and innovation towards achieving the nation’s development goals across all sectors of the economy.
The President, pursuant to the authority vested in him by the Constitution, ordered that all ‘‘procuring authorities shall give preference to Nigerian companies and firms in the award of contracts, in line with the Public Procurement Act 2007.’’
The Executive Order also prohibits the Ministry of Interior from giving visas to foreign workers whose skills are readily available in Nigeria.
It, however, notes that where expertise is lacking, procuring entities will give preference to foreign companies and firms with a demonstrable and verifiable plan for indigenous development, prior to the award of such contracts.
In the proclamation entitled ‘‘PRESIDENTIAL EXECUTIVE ORDER 5 FOR PLANNING AND EXECUTION OF PROJECTS, PROMOTION OF NIGERIAN CONTENT IN CONTRACTS AND SCIENCE, ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY,’’ the President also directed Ministries, Departments and Agencies to engage indigenous professionals in the planning, design and execution of national security projects.
It adds that ‘‘consideration shall only be given to a foreign professional, where it is certified by the appropriate authority that such expertise is not available in Nigeria.’’
[Download the Executive Order here: Presidential Executive Order 05-2018]
Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
February 5, 2018
Press Release: Economic Recovery and Growth Plan: Buhari Administration To Launch Initiative To Boost Job Creation, Investments
Determined to push forward with the economic progress recorded so far, the Buhari administration is set to inaugurate the Joint Working Group for the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) Focus Labs on Tuesday, February 6.
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, will inaugurate the first set of the policy labs tomorrow at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The establishment of the Focus Labs is expected to further boost economic growth and ensure Nigeria continues its journey of building a competitive economy.
The objectives of the Buhari administration’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan include eradicating corruption in government procurement and processes, prudent management of resources, social inclusion, overcoming power constraints and skills shortages, and further promoting private sector inclusion.
In less than a year, following its launch by President Muhammadu Buhari, the implementation of the ERGP has seen the country’s economy record significant strides, including its exit from recession last year and improved stability in the fiscal and monetary markets.
Also, in last year’s World Bank Doing Business index, Nigeria jumped 24 places and was listed among the 10 most reforming economies globally, feats that have attracted wide applause and commendation for the economic policies of the Buhari administration.
In line with the administration’s economic focus and direction, which includes restoring growth and building a competitive economy, the ERGP Focus Labs are aimed at driving new investments that would create hundreds of thousands of jobs for Nigerians across the 36 states of the federation and, in the long-term, continue to grow the economy.
A Central Steering Committee and Joint Working Group of the ERGP Focus Labs will be formed comprising nine ministers in Agriculture, Transport, Solid Minerals, Industry Trade and investment, Power Works and Housing, Petroleum Resources, Finance, Justice and of course Budget and National Planning.
The responsibilities of the Central Steering Committee will include steering the labs and ensuring active collaboration with the private sector to remove inhibitions that may have impeded some of the priority investment projects that have been stalled for too long.
In the same vein, the Joint Working Group will comprise senior public officers from the six aforementioned pilot Ministries, and their agencies. They are expected to work with the Senior Special Assistants to the President in the ERGP Implementation Unit to plan the labs successfully and address the inter-agency bottlenecks the investors bring to the labs.
Other tasks of the members of the core sector teams in the Group include generation and validation of sector data, provision of sector specific information and context, provision of technical perspective and government policy position.
The Working Group would also be tasked with making decisions on behalf of the government that promotes investment and national interest, build Institutional memory, strengthen Institutional capacity, and encourage institutional ownership.
Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity
Office of the Vice President
05 February, 2018
Press Release: VP was in Kano to Attend Aide’s Wedding, Not To Meet Political Groups
The attention of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, has been drawn to a TV news report suggesting that he was in Kano State on Saturday, 3rd of February, 2018 to meet with some political groups. This is completely false and misleading.
On the contrary, the Vice President was in Kano to attend the wedding ceremony of his Personal Assistant, Hafiz Ibrahim Kawu, which was well publicized over the weekend.
On arrival, he was met by Governor Abdullahi Ganduje at the airport, and went straight to the mosque, venue of the Wedding Nikhai. After that, he paid the traditional courtesy call on the Emir of Kano, His Royal Highness, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and proceeded back to the airport.
At no time during the visit did he meet with any political group or groups. Any attempt to give the impression that he was in Kano for a political purpose is mischievous and should be disregarded.
Indeed, the Vice President has in the past few weeks met in Abuja with the Kano APC leadership to ensure unity and full cooperation among party leaders, and this has also been well reported in the media.
Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity
Office of the Vice President
05 February, 2018
Factcheck: Eight Bills of The National Assembly Become Laws Upon President’s Assent
1. Legislative Houses (Powers & Privileges) Act, 2018.
The Legislative Houses Power and privileges Act grant the Legislative Houses: National Assembly and States Houses of Assembly Immunity from Litigation for actions taken in plenary or committee proceedings of the House or committee. It strengthens the power of the Legislators to carry out their legislative functions.
The powers include powers to summon any person to appear before her, give evidence, including power of an officer of the legislative House to arrest any person who commits an offence against the Act.
2. National Institute of Legislative Studies (Amendment) Act, 2018.
The National Institute for Legislative Studies (Amendment) Act, 2018 amends the 2011 Act establishing the Institute and widens her Powers to include powers to provide training Courses and Award Degrees on Democracy, Party Politics, Electoral Process, Legislative Practice and procedures, among others.
3. Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement Between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Kingdom of Spain (Domestication and Enforcement) Act, 2018.
Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Kingdom of Spain (Domestication and Enforcement) Act, 2018. The Act is aims at eliminating double taxation following the provisions of the International Legislation of the contracting states and shall apply to persons who are resident of one or both contracting states.
4. National Senior Citizens’ Centre Act, 2018.
The President also assented to the National Senior Citizens’ Centre Bill 2017. This Act establishes the National Senior Citizens’ Centre in the country to cater for the needs of the senior citizens. The functions of the National Centre shall among others include:
- Identify the needs, trainings and opportunities of Senior Citizens in the County and be responsible for the Provision of recreation, sports, education, health and social programmes and facilities designed for the full enjoyment and benefit of the senior citizens in the country as well as provide guidance and counseling for senior citizens.
- Initiate, develop and implement productive activities and work schemes for senior citizens to provide income or otherwise supplement their earnings.
- Promote and maintain linkages with states and local governments and other instrumentalities of government for the delivery of healthcare services facilities, professional advice services and training.
5. Railway Loan (International Bank) (Repeal) Act, 2018.
These Acts were also assented to by Mr. President and have been remitted to the appropriate authorities of state for further perfecting processes for Acts assented to.
6. Chartered Institute of Local Government and Public Administration Act, 2018.
The chartered Institute of Local Government and Public Administration Act, 2018. The act aims at ensuring professionalism in the system and has the following functions:
- Determining the standards of Knowledge and skills attained by persons seeking to become members of the Institute and improve those standards from time to time
- Secure a register of members of the Institute
- Promote research and development of curricula of training of local government employees and public administrators.
- Provide consultancy services in appropriate cases.
7. Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (Establishment) Act, 2018
The Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (Establishment) Act, 2018 established for the purposes of preventing the entry, establishment and spread of foreign pests and diseases of plant, animal and aquatic resources and products into the country and to promote sanitary and phytosanitary measures as it relates to import and export of agricultural products with a view to minimizing the risk to agriculture food safety and environment.
8. The Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2018.
This Act was also assented by the President.
Sincerely,
Senator (Dr.) Ita Enang
SSA to the President on National Assembly Matters – Senate
26 January 2018.