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2023 : Nigeria would be among the greatest nations in human history, Says APC presidential aspirant, Bola Tinubu
The former governor of Lagos State and presidential aspirant under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, has listed his agenda for the country if voted into power, saying improving the economic prospects of young Nigerians must be prioritised to reclaim the glorious past.
Mr Tinubu spoke on Thursday as the lecturer 25th convocation ceremonies of the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo. He spoke on the theme; “Global Trends: The Rightful Place of Nigeria in the World.”
The convocation lecturer, who was represented by the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, said time was running out for Nigeria to address her challenges, insisting that it is not enough to have potential but to convert them for the benefit of humanity.
He announced the donation of a N1 billion worth of centre to the university, which he noted would be for the incubation of leadership skills and training for future leaders in the country.
Speaking on the difference between the country’s potential and the sad realities, Mr Tinubu said Nigerians should no longer befool themselves, saying “history is patient yet not forever lenient regarding negligent folly.”
He said; “There comes a time when there is no time. Either action is taken, and the urgent word is said or precious chance slips away, lost forever. Our nation is approaching such a moment.
“We have boasted of enormous potential for decades, consoling our discomfort by saying that potential will be realised tomorrow. But something disappointing seems to happen when tomorrow becomes today. Years and decades have passed, yet greatness remains elusive.
“If greatness came merely by speaking of it, we would be among the greatest nations in human history.
“Instead, Nigeria remains locked in place. We remain an economy unjustly designed to export raw materials and import increasingly expensive finished products. The name of the raw materials might have changed from cocoa and groundnuts to oil and gas. The dire effects of this uneven economic arrangement remain the same
“We must be truthful enough to acknowledge this lapse, bold enough to correct it, and tolerant enough not to endlessly vilify each other for causing it. We are all both causes and hopefully solutions. Let us join hands. We must reform this nation.”
Listing his agenda and strategies for reform in the country, the presidential hopeful said the government must support strategically important industries to employ large numbers of young people for them to unleash their productive capacity and boundless energy.
He said national industrial and employment policies must move from the pages of documents to real life, saying the next sector to be properly reformed should be agriculture.
Mr Tinubu said: “We must increase food production while lowering consumer prices. Commodity exchange boards need to be reinstated to assure minimum farm incomes. Reforms are needed to give farmers more access to credit by loosening mortgage requirements and allowing greater leeway to execute forward contracts on what they grow.
“To combat food spoilage, we need to improve the rural road network and fund refrigeration systems for use by farmers and merchants in major local markets in each state. In the areas affected by extreme weather, water catchment systems and small-scale irrigation projects must take hold to mitigate the consequences of droughts and floods while also ensuring water for year-round agriculture.”
Real estate, education
The former governor also listed the real estate sector as one requiring urgent attention, saying its reform will allow the unlocking of economic potential in urban areas.
“It will make it easier to convey and mortgage real estate to lower the costs and time associated with the acquisition and sale of land, thus better allocating land to the most productive uses. Our mortgage institutions need to be revised and better-financed so they can provide affordable residential mortgages to young people just entering the workforce,” Mr Tinubu said.
According to Mr Tinubu, reforming education and the economy cannot be left out. He noted that formal education must be linked with the skills and expertise the business community seeks in the coming years.
He also said there is a need for a massive national infrastructure plan as he added that no national economy can grow beyond the capacity of its infrastructure to service the economy.
“Potable water should be readily available in our cities. Electrical power is the fulcrum of our development. We enact the reforms necessary to power businesses and homes at affordable prices. Firms in the sector must work as much for the public good as for private gain. Businesses contributing to power generation should receive generous tax treatment and forbearance,” Mr Tinubu said.
Centre donation
Meanwhile, the university’s vice-chancellor, Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, while congratulating the graduands on the successful completion of their studies, announced that Mr Tinubu donated a N1 billion centre to LASU.
Mrs Olatunji-Bello said it will be named Bola Ahmed Tinubu Centre for Leadership and Development, even as she urged the graduands to always conduct themselves in such ways and manners that will bring glory to them, their families, and their alma mater.
“You have been taught what it takes to succeed in life. Go and explore the world, do not limit your capabilities, be focused on whatever you do and involve God in your endeavours. Always remember that we are LASU and we are great,” Mrs Olatunji-Bello said.
She also congratulated all honourary awardees, saying their choice from amongst a lot of other suggested names after rigorous scrutiny, is a confirmation of their sincerity, sacrifice and unparalleled contributions and service to Nigeria.
“To Distinguished Professor Peter Akinsola Okebukola, the conferment of the rank of Professor Emeritus on you today is our modest way of appreciating all you have done and still doing for us at the Lagos State University, other Universities in Nigeria, and the world at large,” the vice-chancellor added.
On his part, the pro-chancellor and chairman of the university’s governing council, David Sunmoni, congratulated the families of the graduands.
He said; “Today’s convocation ceremony is for the Awards of PhDs, Conferment of the rank of Emeritus Professor and Honorary Doctorate Degrees to those who have been trained, examined, and undoubtedly found worthy both in character and in learning and eminent personalities who have contributed immensely to the development of humanity.”
The university’s chancellor, Gbolahan Elias, a professor, who was represented by the chairman of the convocation lecture and governor of Katsina State, Bello Masari, also told the graduates that their hard work and effort are recognised.
“You should continue to show interest in the progress of LASU, just as LASU must always keep track of your progress. The formal link between you and your university is provided for through the convocation. Please do not forget your roots here. LASU will certainly come to you for support in the months and years ahead,” he said.
Honorary doctorate awards were conferred on the governors of Kano and Borno states, Abdullahi Ganduje and Babagana Zulum, a professor of engineering, and the chairman, Nigeria in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
Also honoured are the former chairman of First Bank, Ibukunoluwa Awosika, and the chairman of Ikeja Hotel Plc, Goodie Ibru.
Senator Cyril Fasuyi, representing Ekiti North Senatorial District, has been dragged before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged fraud involving the sum of $2,980,535.00.
The petition, submitted by Mr. Nuel Wilson, West Africa Regional Representative of Integrated Packaging Systems FZCO (IPS Ingredis) and its Nigerian subsidiary, IPS Ingredis Integrated Systems Limited, accused Senator Fasuyi and his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Adun Fasuyi, of conspiracy, fraudulent conversion, obtaining by false pretence, stealing, and diversion of foreign investment funds.
According to the petition, which was acknowledged by the EFCC on December 10, 2020, the Dubai-based company alleged that the senator and his wife, operating under the name Legacy Foods Limited, failed to remit payment for products supplied to them after several business transactions.
The petition stated that IPS Ingredis, a company registered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, conducts the business of sales, supply, and distribution of raw materials across different countries, including Nigeria, through its local subsidiary based in Lagos State.
The complainant explained that the business relationship between both parties began in November 2015 after the suspects were introduced to the company by one of its Chinese customers. Following several meetings, the Fasuyis allegedly represented themselves as credible business partners interested in the company’s line of products.
Based on the agreement, the company reportedly supplied various raw materials, including corn starch, maltodextrin, shortening, maltose syrup, and other products to Legacy Foods Limited through multiple purchase orders.
The petition further alleged that goods worth over $9 million were supplied to the suspects during the course of the business relationship. However, the company claimed that after selling the products, the suspects allegedly refused to pay the outstanding sum of $2,980,535.00.
“Our clients supplied goods worth over $9,000,000.00 to the suspects. The suspects, after selling all the goods, refused to pay the sum of Two Million, Nine Hundred and Eighty Thousand, Five Hundred and Thirty Five United States Dollars worth of products already supplied,” part of the petition read.
The foreign investors also accused the suspects of allegedly diverting proceeds from the sales for personal use and benefits, despite repeated demands for payment.
According to the petition, investigations allegedly revealed that the products supplied had been sold and disposed of, while proceeds were allegedly converted for personal gains.
The complainant described the development as “a calculated attempt to dispossess foreign investors of their investment in Nigeria through fraudulent means.”
The petition also emphasized the need for Nigerian authorities to protect foreign investments and uphold the spirit of bilateral investment agreements between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates.
Meanwhile, the petition named Mrs. Elizabeth Adun Fasuyi as a co-suspect in the matter. She was reportedly present in court alongside her husband at a point during proceedings but allegedly avoided arrest by operatives of the anti-graft agency.
Senator Cyril Fasuyi, representing Ekiti North Senatorial District, has been dragged before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over an alleged fraud involving the sum of $2,980,535.00.
The petition, submitted by Mr. Nuel Wilson, West Africa Regional Representative of Integrated Packaging Systems FZCO (IPS Ingredis) and its Nigerian subsidiary, IPS Ingredis Integrated Systems Limited, accused Senator Fasuyi and his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Adun Fasuyi, of conspiracy, fraudulent conversion, obtaining by false pretence, stealing, and diversion of foreign investment funds.
According to the petition, which was acknowledged by the EFCC on December 10, 2020, the Dubai-based company alleged that the senator and his wife, operating under the name Legacy Foods Limited, failed to remit payment for products supplied to them after several business transactions.
The petition stated that IPS Ingredis, a company registered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, conducts the business of sales, supply, and distribution of raw materials across different countries, including Nigeria, through its local subsidiary based in Lagos State.
The complainant explained that the business relationship between both parties began in November 2015 after the suspects were introduced to the company by one of its Chinese customers. Following several meetings, the Fasuyis allegedly represented themselves as credible business partners interested in the company’s line of products.
Based on the agreement, the company reportedly supplied various raw materials, including corn starch, maltodextrin, shortening, maltose syrup, and other products to Legacy Foods Limited through multiple purchase orders.
The petition further alleged that goods worth over $9 million were supplied to the suspects during the course of the business relationship. However, the company claimed that after selling the products, the suspects allegedly refused to pay the outstanding sum of $2,980,535.00.
“Our clients supplied goods worth over $9,000,000.00 to the suspects. The suspects, after selling all the goods, refused to pay the sum of Two Million, Nine Hundred and Eighty Thousand, Five Hundred and Thirty Five United States Dollars worth of products already supplied,” part of the petition read.
The foreign investors also accused the suspects of allegedly diverting proceeds from the sales for personal use and benefits, despite repeated demands for payment.
According to the petition, investigations allegedly revealed that the products supplied had been sold and disposed of, while proceeds were allegedly converted for personal gains.
The complainant described the development as “a calculated attempt to dispossess foreign investors of their investment in Nigeria through fraudulent means.”
The petition also emphasized the need for Nigerian authorities to protect foreign investments and uphold the spirit of bilateral investment agreements between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates.
Meanwhile, the petition named Mrs. Elizabeth Adun Fasuyi as a co-suspect in the matter. She was reportedly present in court alongside her husband at a point during proceedings but allegedly avoided arrest by operatives of the anti-graft agency.
Engr. Marcus Adedini, Aspirant for Ife Federal Constituency, heartily congratulate the distinguished Ife-born retired military officer, Major General Adeyinka FAMADEWA (Rtd), on his well-deserved appointment as Special Adviser on Homeland Security by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
This prestigious appointment is a clear recognition of your years of meritorious service, professionalism, discipline, and unwavering commitment to national development and security.
Your appointment has brought immense pride, honour, and joy to the people of Ife Kingdom, as it further reflects the excellence and capacity of our sons and daughters who continue to contribute meaningfully to nation-building. Your outstanding record of leadership and dedication to service remains a great source of inspiration to many across the country.
As you assume this important national assignment, I am confident that your wealth of experience and strategic leadership will contribute significantly to strengthening peace, stability, and homeland security in Nigeria.
I pray that God grants you wisdom, strength, and greater success in this new office. Congratulations once again, Sir.
Signed:
Engr. Marcus Adedini
Aspirant, Ife Federal Constituency
The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has celebrated renowned businessman and illustrious son of Ile-Ife, Prince Eludipo Elusanmi Eludoyin, on the occasion of his 78th birthday.
In a statement on Monday released by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the Ooni who is also the Permanent Co-chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) described Prince Eludoyin as one of the shining lights of Ile-Ife whose life has remained dedicated to hard work, service to humanity and the growth of Nigeria’s economy.
The Ooni praised the Ife-born business mogul for his remarkable achievements in the international business community, noting that his contributions through Paragon Holdings Limited and other business platforms have created employment opportunities for thousands of people while also supporting meaningful development projects within and outside Nigeria.
Ooni Ogunwusi said Prince Eludoyin’s impact goes beyond business, describing him as a man who has consistently used his success to uplift people and support communities through various philanthropic activities.
According to the Ooni, the celebrant’s humility, wisdom and commitment to humanity have earned him respect across different sectors both in Nigeria and abroad.
The royal father also acknowledged Prince Eludoyin’s longstanding relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing the celebrant as a trusted confidant and loyal friend whose influence and experience continue to contribute positively to national development.
“Prince Eludoyin is a pride to Ile-Ife and the Yoruba race. His life story is one of vision, resilience and service. At 78, he remains a source of inspiration to younger generations who desire success built on integrity, excellence and compassion,” the Ooni stated.
The Ooni prayed for more years of sound health, peace, strength and continued accomplishments for the elder statesman as he continues to serve humanity and contribute to the progress of society.
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