Monday, November 18, 2024
Home Blog Page 76

Nigeria Will Achieve Food Security, Agric Ministers

By
Uche Kingsley
-
0

Abubakar Kyari, the new minister of agriculture, and Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, the minister of state for agriculture and food security, have promised to work tirelessly to guarantee that Nigeria achieves food security during their terms in office.

Shortly after President Bola Tinubu installed the members of the Federal Executive Council, Kyari made this statement on Monday at the Ministry’s Abuja headquarters when they took office.

Kyari emphasized that Nigeria would not only have access to enough food, but would also make sure that it exported its agricultural products to other nations. Returns To The Ministry Of Finance, Promising Less Painful Reforms.

While addressing the management and staff of the Ministry, Kyari said: “I will not bore you with long speech, I am ready and willing to the service of this nation.

“We all know the challenges we face now. Nigerians are hungry. We have the challenges of insecurity and flooding.

He , however, noted that though these challenges are huge and daunting, but they are not insurmountable.

The stated that his biggest inspiration was the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration and the declaration of the state of emergency on agricultural sector.

In his remarks, Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, Minister of State, Agriculture and Food Security, said the challenges in the sector would be overcome with commitment and dedication of the management and staff of the ministry in collaboration with other critical stakeholders.

Also speaking, the Governor of Borno State, Dr. Babagana Zulum, tasked the new Ministers to work assiduously to ensure that Nigeria becomes food secure in the nearest future.

Zulum, who accompanied the two Ministers to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, maintained that the current palliatives being offered by government cannot solve the problems of Nigerians, as they are short-term measures introduced by government to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal.

As a matter of necessity, he said, Nigeria must look for long-term solutions to the myriads of challenges confronting the nation, adding that food insecurity must be addressed in the country through the deployment of commercial agriculture, modern agriculture, irrigated agriculture and technology in the sector.

The governor,therefore, tasked the two new ministers and all critical stakeholders in the sector to work diligently to reposition the food industry to guarantee food security.

Solid Minerals: We’re Devoted To Giving The Sector A New Lease On Life, Alake

By
Gladys Phillip
-
0

Dele Alake, the minister of solid minerals development, has stated that the administration is ready to breathe fresh life into the industry.

He said that President Bola Tinubu gave him the responsibility because of the industry’s delicate situation with regard to economic revival.

This was said by Alake when he took office following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s inauguration of him in Abuja.

According to Alake :“The ministry is key to the administration and the president wanted someone that he can trust to deliver effectively, So that position was one that I specifically asked Mr President to give me and he obliged” he stated.

He, however, warned members of staff to brace up for the tasks ahead in delivering the renewed hope to Nigerians adding that all civil service bottlenecks should be eliminated to enable him carry out his duties effectively.

“I have worked as a Commission for information to the President while he was the Governor of Lagos state and I understand how you civil servants operate, I wont tolerate any bottlenecks that would hinder my job so any files that get to you must be attended to in an hour” Alake warned.

“We won’t allow bottlenecks to stifle our set goals. If you can really sit down to listen, you would understand that, Hydrocarbon is fading out and the attention of the world is shifting to solid minerals. So, we must get it right.” Alaka emphasized.

“I understood what results are, having served under the current president as commissioner while he was the governor of Lagos state and we are here to achieve results. I believe we can do it with all hands on deck.”

Alake who stressed that all is set to implement President Bola Tinubu’s directive in line with the mandate of the sector added that he would unveil his roadmap for the sector in the next couple days.

Earlier, his counterpart in the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, said it was time to move the country to the G-20 industrialized nations and promised that in no distance time the Ajaokuta Steel mill will commence production.

Saying, “The mandate of Mr. President is to ensure that we get it right in the steel sector and as a young ministry, we would work towards the production of steel in the country in no distance time. We are set to kick start the Ajaokuta steel machine and Nigeria cannot afford to fail in steel production.” Audu stated.

In his presentation, the minister of state, Mines and Steel development, Maigari Ahmadu called for synergy among stakeholders and staff to enable the ministers to perform optimally.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe
explained that the mandate of the ministry was to regulate the mining sector to ensure that mineral resources are harnessed and utilized for development of the nation’s economy.

We are dedicated to implementing policies that will raise the standards for the health sector Pate

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, who was been appointed Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, has committed to see that laws that will improve the standard of care for Nigerians and their quality of life are successfully put into effect.

Pate gave this hint at the reception ceremony held at the Ministry’s Headquarters on 21st August, 2023 in Abuja.

According to him, “I will work with my brother, the Minister of State and everybody to actualize the vision and mandate of President Bola Tinubu” saying, the selection of Ministers for the Health Ministry by the President indicates that “he considers the people as the bases and foundational element of his administration”.

“My tenure will enhance the welfare, health and well-being of the people since they are inter-connected right from gestation to early childhood to adulthood and to the elderly all across life circle”.

He , however, assured that the duties and obligations of the Health Ministry in the area of stabilizing, reducing pain, whether physical pain or financial protection would be addressed so that people will actually begin to feel the impact of the administration on their lives.

The Minister said he is ready to work with the Minister of State, Staff of the Ministry, other Agencies and stakeholders to shape a direction for the Nigerian Health Sector and move it forward.

Pate hinted that his intention to work with health actors, parastatals, hospitals, states and private sectors in improving the standard of healthcare, in order to stall oversea medical tourism.

Also, the Minister of State, Dr. Tunji Alausa commended the management and staff of the Ministry for the warm reception while asserting that health care covers not only hospitals but physical health, social security, national security and others.

He stated that people deserve basic comprehensive internationally acceptable healthcare services, promising that they are determined to achieve this feat to improve lives.

He opined that the President has been very deliberative in the way he has chosen his cabinet members, reiterating the Presidents statement that “he is the driver, the Ministers are driving with him and the entire 250 million Nigerians are in the car, we cannot afford to fail”.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Daju Kachollom mni assured the Ministers that the Staff of the Ministry are determined to give their unalloyed support to ensure they succeed.

While highlighting the mandate, mission and vision obligations of the Ministry, she promised that “we will provide expertise in the administrative standard that will move the health sector forward”.

Edun Resumes As Minister Of Finance, Assures Less Painful Reforms

By
Victor Obabunmi
-
0

Mr. Wale Edun, Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, resumed the Ministry headquarters office on Monday and declared that the current reforms’ discomforts would soon pass.

He claimed that Nigerians will not blow this chance to get the best performance possible from the current crop of the government’s team.

Edun was greeted with songs of unity by the ministry’s delighted staff as he arrived at 1.58 pm.

He entered a meeting behind closed doors right away with the two permanent Secretaries and a small group of ministry senior officials.

Also, in another elaborate session which had Directors of the Ministry in attendance, the former Lagos state Commissioner of Finance underscored Nigerians’ high expectations of the current administration, an expectation he said must not be toyed with.

” I have been to this ministry before now on many occasions on special assignments . The former Minister of Finance Budget and National planning Mrs Zainab Ahmed did a good work. We will consolidate on she did and we will take it to a greater height.

” We need to deliver, we need to perform. Nigerians expectations are high. Mr. President has set the ball rolling.

“He has taken some macro , fiscal and monetary measures that will leave Nigeria for the better. It’s our duty to help him to ensure the pains are minimized. We know we have a job to do to making sure the reforms don’t leave anybody behind”, he said.

He solicited cooperation of ministry’s Directors and other personel in achieving desired result.

” We can do it, let’s work together to ensure we achieve our dream”, said the Minister.

In his introductory remark earlier, Permanent Secretary ( Special Duties) Mr. Udo Okokon Ekanem recalled some of the good antecedents of the Minister as Commissioner of Finance in Lagos state and expressed optimism he will leave such imprint at the federal level.

” Congratulations on your appointment and redeployment to the ministry of finance. Here, we have committed and dedicated staff that are willing and ready to work. We have heard a lot about you, your good work in Lagos. Staff here are receptive. We are ready to work with you”.

Permanent Secretary ( Finance)
Mallam Aliyu Ahmed said the Minister was in a familiar terrain having manned similar portfolios in Lagos and outside of Nigeria where he had tremendous work exposures.

Oyetola Resumes As Marine and Blue Economy Minister, Plans To Tap $1.5 Trillion Sector

By
Victor Obabunmi
-
0

…Seeks Partnership with Stakeholder

The former governor of Osun State and the minister of the newly established ministry of marine and blue economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, resumed to work at the ministry in Abuja on Monday after being sworn in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a quick ceremony dubbed a “meet and greet meeting,” the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, welcomed the new Minister to the ministry along with his wife, Mrs. Kafayat Oyetola, and other guests. The Perm Sec also handed the new Minister the ministry’s briefs for the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry.

Addressing the ministry officials, the former governor of Osun State, said the ministry must play a very significant role in the sector which he said experts have estimated to be worth more than $1.5 trillion per year globally.

According to him: “I strongly believe in the power of collaboration, and dedication to service. The collaborative effort of a group to achieving a common goal can only be efficient and effective through team work. This is why I crave your indulgence that we must work as a team to deliver on our mandate. Let us work together to find innovative solutions to the challenges we face, ensuring that our oceans and marine are safe, reliable, and sustainable.

“Our oceans cover more than two-thirds of our planet’s surface, holding the key to sustainable economic growth, environmental preservation, and technological innovation. As we look ahead, my vision is rooted in the responsible management and utilisation of our marine resources to benefit not only our economy but also the health of our planet.

“Experts say the Blue Economy is estimated to be worth more than 1.5 trillion Dollars per year globally. Therefore, given our size as a country and considering the size of our blue economy, we should be a significant player in this sector, so as to contribute immensely to the revenue generation of our country and also provide jobs for the unemployed.

“We must come up with practicable ways of ensuring that our inland rivers, lakes, and waterways are well utilised, both in terms of cargo shipment and passenger transportation. And this can be done by embarking on a holistic dredging campaign for most of our strategically important inland waterways so as to make them navigable for the passage of goods and people.

“We equally have a duty to promote better inter-agency cooperation and coordination between the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority.

“As someone with a strong private sector background, we shall promote greater private sector inclusion while fostering greater efficiency through specialisation and the effective delineation of core duties between the units.

“We must seize this opportunity to create positive change, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come. I appreciate your dedication, and I look forward to working alongside each of you in the pursuit of a better Nigeria.

“These are my thoughts as I join you today. I believe that when we are able to do all these and more, we would have contributed our own quota towards realising Mr. President’s renewed Hope Agenda in the Marine and Blue Economy sector. I thank you all for welcoming me and listening to my address. I will now sit back and listen to your ideas and contributions” he said.

Earlier in her address, the Permanent Secretary said the Ministry had done a bit on Marine and Blue Economy, stressing that already a committee already exists on ground.

Ajani emphasized there is a lot of resources in the waters, expressing hope that the new Minister would led his team to make the ministry more impactful for the benefits of the country.

I came to Abuja to fix it, not to hoist party flags, Wike claims

By
Gladys Phillip
-
0

Barr. Nyesome Wike, the recently appointed Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has dispelled rumors that he will soon defect to the party in power, the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Wike, the lone member of an opposition party in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet, stated he was there to bring the advantages of democracy to the FCT and return it back to its previous splendor.

The minister presented a 10-point agenda at his first press conference, outlining, among other deliverables, security, city sanitation, preservation of the Abuja Master Plan, infrastructure development, restoration of green spaces, removal of shanties, plugging revenue leaks, and ground rent payments.

The minister made this known while fielding questions from newsmen on the party flags he is likely to fly as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, saying, FCT residents should be more worried about burning issues needing urgent intervention and not the party flag he will be flying.

Why should anyone be bothered about what party flag I will be flying? Ok bring PDP flag, I will fly it, bring Labour Party flag, I will fly it. The FCT has in this state and you think the people are bothered about the party flag I fly? I will fly the Nigerian flag and ensure the FCT returns to the dreams of the founding fathers.

“We will bring FCT back to where it ought to be. So many people have complained that this is not the FCT of the founding fathers. We must tackle issue of security. FCT should be where people come fot holidays.”

He, however, warned that the Administration under his leadership will not take excuses from security agencies as they will provided with the required tools to work as issue of security is germane.

The minister also disclosed that he will sanitise the city and end the raise of slums and shanties across the city.

According to him: “Abuja has turned to a slum city. Sanitation is bad with refuse everywhere. We cannot allow that. We will look at issues of waste disposals.”

“If you know you have built where it’s not suppose to build, it will go down. Our green areas and parks must come back

“Land racketeering days are over. Those who refuse to develop turning to land speculators will loos their lands.”

“All these are our short term deliverables so as to bring back people’s confidence in Government.”

Tinubu to Ministers: We Must Show Collective Trust, Transparency, Accountability in Our New Roles

By
Ola Akinola
-
0

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated 45 members of his cabinet, warning them that they owe Nigerians accountability, trust, and openness in the performance of their duties.

Tinubu identified himself as the President at this moment in time as the driver of the renewed hope agenda, and hence Nigerians will be queuing behind and expecting to collect the rewards of democracy at the Presidential Villa Abuja on Monday.

He praised the ministerial appointees, saying he personally chose them to assist him in running his administration’s operations, but that they will be constantly monitored to ensure they fulfill their responsibilities.

According to him: ” In line with the constitutional obligations the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has screened and confirmed 45 ministers who will superintend over the ministries of federal government in this administration of renewed hope.

“The men and women who have been sworn-in have been carefully selected by me for their track record of excellence and achievement in public and private sector.

“They reflected in diversity of Nigeria and bring to their new role an assortment of experience and expertise to help guide the nation’s affairs and also continue to rebuild the nation and re-engineer all our finances and defects, building blocks of Nigeria today and the future.

“Fellow Nigerians, the challenges we face today are very daunting yes, there are yet amidst this evident challenge, we have the opportunity to implement long overdue reforms that will improve the operation of government, transform our nation’s economy and ensure peace, safety and prosperity for our people.

“These are the objectives that underpin the renewed hope agenda. And these are the objectives that inspired the selection of a lot of these distinguished ladies and gentlemen ministers.

“As Ministers of the federal republic you are, not minister of a region or Minister of a particular state.

“Since my inauguration on May 29, I have taken steps to begin implementing the agenda from which I campaigned and for which I received the mandate of Nigerian people. With the inauguration of ministers today, we are about to accelerate our governing efforts to move forward, highlighting our best aspiration for Nigerians. It is all about a great team. And I believe we have them here.

“It is the highest honour to be chosen to serve as the minister in the Federal Executive Council of our beloved Republic. With such high honour comes tremendous responsibility. In this moment of abundant promise and fail in equal measure.

“All of you who have been sworn in I’ve been called to distinguish yourselves. It is me who knows you. I delegate this authority but the greatest number of Nigerians are highly expecting delivery and accountability and transparency.

“I expect that you will serve with integrity, dignity and deliver. I will hold you to that standard we all promised Nigerians.

“Your assignment begins immediately. As your country honours you today, by this call to service you must each work to make yourself worthy in the eyes of God and all our nation’s people.

“Your highest obligation is to retire public faith in government so that our people can once again believe that the right hands in government can show. I believe in you that the government can be a positive force for transformation and a vehicle for collective progress of this country.

“I congratulate you and welcome you to the administration of renewed hope.

“I wish you success in this new assignment. We are on this boat even if it is a vehicle and I am the driver the entire Nigerians are behind sitting and watching as you and I navigate this vehicle”.

Speaking further, the President said, “We must hold each other responsible. We have to do the job to meet the expectations of all Nigerians.

“As I said earlier on, you are not a minister of a particular state, colonies, region or ethnic nationality, you are a Minister of Federal Republic of Nigeria. God be with you and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Thank you very much”.

Corruption: Activist Tanimu reacts to Jackson Ude tweet on Bala Mohammed

By
Ola Akinola
-
0

Social activist and Public Affairs commentator, Kazeem Tanimu, has reacted to accusations of corruption against Gov.Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State by Jackson Ude, US-based investigative journalist and former A Director of Strategy and Communications, under President Goodluck Jonathan.

In a recent series of tweets on his official twitter page; @jacksonpbn, Ude, who publishes Pointblank News, alleged that the governor was looting the state treasuring under his watch.

The tweet reads: “BALA MOHAMMED AND THE LOOTING OF BAUCHI STATE Pt1

“Governor BALa Mohammed of Bauchi state is using his colleague Governor to loot his state resources. On 04 March 2019, the “BAUCHI STATE UNIVERSITY GADAU- TETFUND INTERVENTION ACCOUNT” account with account number “0122832042” experienced a debit of N89,437,144.73, in favour of SUPERIOR CONTRACTORS LIMITED.

“The company is owned by the Governor of Gombe State, Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya, and his sons Misbahuddin Inuwa Yahaya and Raddiyya Inuwa Yahaya.

Ude continues “IN FOUR TRANSACTIONS, GOV BALA MOHAMMED LOOTED N632.5MILLION FROM BAUCHI TREASURY.

“Findings have revealed that On 26th November 2020, the Bauchi State Consolidated Revenue Fund Account (CRF-TSA) 0124662 witnessed an outflow of N126,5m in favour of Adda Nigeria Limited.

“The following day (April 27, 2020), the Bauchi State Government Federation Account Allocation Committee Account 0125043 paid the sum of N126.5m in favour of the same company.Adda Nigeria Limited also had payment of N126.5m paid into it from the Bauchi State’s FAAC account on May 20, 2020.

“Again, on May 30 and July 27, 2020, the sum of N126.5m each was paid to Adda Nigeria Limited by the Bauchi State Government FAAC Account 01146385 and the Bauchi State Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF-TSA) respectively.

“A quick search by our correspondent revealed that the quartet of Bala Mohammed, Abdullahi Bawa, Salihu Bawa Z.A and Salihu Bawa H.A are Directors of Adda Nigeria Limited.”

The tweet has continued to generate reactions among Nigerians, especially among Civil Society Groups and political watchers. With many saying the Governor need to convincingly debunk the allegations by Ude.

However, Tanimu, a youth mobilizer and advocate of good governance across Africa, told newsmen that although Ude’s claim should not be flayed at the surface as he has known him to be a “ a sound investigative Journalist.”

Tanimu however said that although he testify of the governor’s financial impropriety , he only know him to be “ politically on stable.”

Tanimu said: “Loyalty means nothing to Gov Bala of Bauchi State, he is among those working against the tribunal case because of his selfish intentions to run for president with Nyesom Wike deputizing him in 2027.

“The likes of Rt. Hon Dogara knows Bala Mohammed so well; he is aware of his deviousness. Governor Bala has two-faced lifestyle, that lacks common values and morals.

“You can’t trade or buy loyalty, you can only earn it. It’s a priceless piece that can hardly be afforded. Gov Bala is a mole ravaging the PDP. Personally i regret ever working with him and his frontier, Eric Anyamene.

“We have paid our dues in helping him count his political steps too. In 2019 we organised a grand fundraising dinner for him which he failed to appreciate; and we are still on standby watching him make a fool of himself.”

Revenue harmonisation in FCT a marathon not a sprint – FCT-IRS boss

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

The Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) has reaffirmed that the ongoing harmonisation drive in the FCT is a marathon not a sprint, as such, all concerns raised by stakeholders will be considered and addressed accordingly.

The Executive Chairman of FCT-IRS, Mr. Haruna Abdullahi gave the clarification during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on revenue harmonisation with Kuje Area Council in Abuja, saying, the project takes shape, stakeholders are encouraged to ask questions and the Service is committed to providing answers, addressing concerns and fostering greater understanding.

According to him, the signed MoU between FCT-IRS and Kuje Area Council will provide stakeholders with a clear framework outlining their respective roles and shared responsibilities in this harmonisation initiative.

He said It would also serve as both a template and a beacon of hope, demonstrating the possibilities when organizations collaborate. Mr. Abdullahi emphasized that all concerns raised were valid, and the FCT-IRS would actively engage with major stakeholders to provide clarity based on legal provisions.

Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Mr. Abdullahi expressed his confidence in overcoming them with determination, integrity, and a commitment to openness.

He assured the residents of the city that each and every contributed kobo would be properly accounted for and used judiciously and reiterated the commitment of the Service in leveraging technology, strategic partnerships, and adopting international best practices tol ensuring that the FCT-IRS maintains a high standard in its processes.

“This is not just about Kuje, it is a template and beckon of hope on what can be achieved when organisations come together. And I will also have to say here that all concerns are valid and that is why we are here. We’ll continue to engage major stakeholders and continue to clarify issues that are a bit concerning and clarify according to the law and every stakeholder has a reason to ask questions.

“This is new. I always say harmonisation is a marathon, so there will be challenges along the way but with determination and integrity that we have shown around the process there is honesty. So any body that has concerns, the channels for clarifying these concerns are always opened and the service, does not know it all so we are also open to guidance and clarification as well.

“As we embark on this harmonisation journey I want to assure all residents of the city that every contributed kobo will be accounted for and used judiciously.

“We’re leveraging technology, partnerships and international best practices and good practices to ensure that our processes remain top notch” he stated.

The FCT-IRS commended the FCTA Permanent Secretary, Mr Adesola Olusade for his dedication and support throughout this journey adding that his unwavering commitment has been a source of hope and inspiration

Abdullahi also lauded the Executive Chairman of Kuje Area Council, Mr. Abdullahi Sabo, for his determination and steadfastness in supporting the Harmonisation process.

In his remarks, Mr. Sabo, affirmed Kuje Area Council’s confidence in the capacity of the FCT-IRS to handle revenue collection on their behalf.

He emphasised that the area council had tasked the FCT-IRS with improving and standardizing their existing data , therefore all levy and revenue collections in Kuje area council would transit to an automated, cashless system.

The area council chairman expressed his commitment to the success of this project and indicated that other area councils would soon join in signing the MoU with the FCT-IRS to enhance and strengthen the overall harmonisation drive.

Mr. Adesola Olusade, the FCTA Permanent Secretary, who witnessed the signing of the MoU, emphasised that this journey towards harmonisation and ease of doing business began years ago, in 2012.

He acknowledged the challenges faced due to a lack of mutual trust and insufficient teamwork for implementation stating that with the recent developments, he was satisfied and fulfilled.

According to him, this harmonisation initiative will address issues related to multiple taxation and foster a more business-friendly environment in the city.

‘Today, I am fulfilled. The journey towards harmonisation and ease of doing business started as way back as 2012. Efforts to conclude it had been very challenging because of lack of mutual trust and inadequate team work for the implementation.

“In 2012, we didn’t have FCT-IRS and the Service came to be as a creation of the law in 2015 and had to grable with tilting problems before it became eventually operational in 2018.

“Therefore, harmonizing revenue collection is not amounting to concession, the task before FCT-IRS is to collect the revenue on behalf of other revenue agencies and area councils and remit it to them in accountable and transparent manner” he explained.

Jonathan, Oyakhilome, Kukah have been selected among Africa’s “100 Most Notable Peace Icons.”

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, televangelist and president of Loveworld Incorporated,Pastor Chris Oyakhilome and Matthew Hassan Kukah, bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, have been named among the “100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa.”

They were unveiled by the project’s organizers at a ‘Unveiling News Conference’ of the’100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’ on Friday in Abuja.

Other Nigerians on the list are Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, Cardinal John Onayekan, Pastor Jerry Ezeh, creator of Streams of Joy International, former Nigerian Vice President, Prof YemiOsibanjo, Sultan of Sokoto, Mohammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, and Akinwumi Adeshina.President of the African Development Bank.

Celebrities who made the list include Nollywood actresses Rita Dominic and Mercy Aigbe, Davido, Rema, Ay Makun, Isreal Adesanya, Cubana Chief Priest,Linda Ikeji,Hilda Bassey, Nigerian Chief and Guinesss World Record Holder , Nigerian International Football star, Victor Osimeh and Dele Momodu, publisher of Ovation International Magazine.

Amb. Kinsley Amafibe, Project Director Africa for the ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons  in Africa’, congratulated   recipients of the honour across the continent for   making  the highly coveted ‘peace list’.

According to him, the  peace icons are Africans drawn  from different backgrounds, who have used their talents, positions and resources to build and promote peace across  the continent.

He said those who made the list were carefully selected for   their consistent commitment to humanitarian initiatives  , positive influence on communities and youth empowerment, among other criteria.

“It is with immense excitement that we announce the revelation of the esteemed list titled “100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa.”

“This initiative stands as a testament to our commitment to acknowledging and applauding the remarkable individuals and collectives that have played key roles in nurturing peace, harmony, and positive change  the African continent.

“This initiative celebrates the dedication of those who have labored continuously to reduce conflicts, advance social bond, and establish connections amidst diverse communities.

“By sharing their narratives, our intention is to amplify the ripples of their endeavors, produce a collective resolve to foster a more calm and prosperous Africa.

“Within this illustrious roster of 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa, we encounter a rich shade of leaders, economist, financial expert, sports personalities, religious leaders, industrialist, entertainment entrepreneurs and traditional rulers.

“They have transcended boundaries and overcome challenges to leave inerasable legacies, with each narrative as a tribute to perseverance and determination, enclosed in  the cherished values of Africa- unity, harmony, and progress.

“The profiles and accomplishments of these icons are showcased on our official website, www.100mostnotable.org, a digital monument honoring their contributions across Africa and beyond,” he said.

Other recipients of the recognition across the continent include Patrick Lumumba, Human Right Activist, Rwanda President, Paul Kagame, Kenyan President William Ruto Cyril Ramaphosa, South African President and Joyce Hilda- Band ,First Female President in Malawi.

Ex- Cameroonian football star Samuel Eto’oFils, veteran Ghanaian actor John Dumelo,  American-born Senegalese singer, Akon , the  first lady of Mamibia, Monica Geingos  are also  listed among the peace icons.

According to the Project Director, the “100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa” initiative stands as a celebration of hope, unity, and advancement for the continent.

He therefore urged Africans to unite in constructing a future where peace  and prosperity flourish through education, empowerment, and sustainable development.

“The unveiling of this plaque transcends mere symbolism but serves as a call to action, an exhortation to perpetuate the values embody by African Icons.

“This plaque would serve as a perpetual reminder to both present and future generations that peace entails more than the absence of conflict; it encompasses the proactive cultivation of understanding, cooperation, and shared prosperity.

The legacy of these African Icons shall persist as a wellspring of inspiration for individuals, nations, and the entirety of the African continent,

He added that “Beyond commemorating these Peace Icons, we proudly announce our commitment to elevating education across the continent. In the pursuit of sustaining peace and development, we are endowing scholarships to 20,000 students hailing from various corners of Africa.

“This scholarship program is designed to empower and nurture the forthcoming generation of African leaders, equipping them with the knowledge and skills required to propel the growth and stability of their respective nations”, he said.

1...757677...302Page 76 of 302

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

Newsfocus is your news, sports,politics, entertainment, music fashion website. We offer you the latest breaking news and videos straight from the sports and entertainment industry across the world.

Contact us: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

© 2020 Focus Media . All Rights Reserved