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Prioritize safety of investments in Nigeria, Lawan tells FG

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Senate President Ahmad Lawan
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President of the Senate, Ahmad Lawan, has said that efforts by the Federal Government to prioritize the safety and security of private sector investments across the country would guarantee an improved economy for Nigeria.

Lawan stated this on Wednesday in his remarks moments after the upper chamber considered a bill to enact the Public-Private Partnership Regulatory Commission Bill 2021.

The bill which scaled second reading during plenary was sponsored by Senator Muhammad Adamu Aliero (APC, Kebbi Central).

According to the Senate President, the provision of a safe environment which allows ease of doing business would encourage public-private partnerships needed to drive investments and develop the various sectors of the economy.

He, therefore, called on the executive to ensure that the Public-Private Partnership Regulatory Commission bill, is assented into law when eventually passed by the National Assembly.  

Lawan said, “Let me say that our country at this point and, indeed, at any point, should embark on public private partnership to ensure that we free our scarce resources for social development, particularly education and health, and similar sub-sectors.

“I believe that at this point in our history, with very limited resources, we need to encourage the private sector to participate in the development of infrastructure in our country.

“[And] of course, this is the practice, but one thing is clear, that we have to provide a convenient and safe environment for the public and private sector to be convinced that their investments would provide the kind of return that they aspire to get, and that there’s the legal framework to protect their investments.

“No matter how hard we wish to encourage the private sector to participate in our economy, if the investments do not appear to be fully protected, or they feel unsafe, we will be disappointed.

“So, I believe that this is a very important bill. And it is for us in government – both the executive and the legislature – particularly the two arms government, to work hard to provide the kind of climate of ease of doing business, security and safety to promote and protect private sector investments in our country.

“I believe that Nigeria has the kind of population that will encourage any private sector investment to come.

“What may be a setback at the moment, is the security challenge that we face, but thank God we are doing well and would continue to do so, but this is one bill that all of us in the legislature and executive arm of government would like to see become a law that will also be fully implemented for the benefit of our country.”

Senator Aliero, in his lead debate on the Public-Private Partnership Regulatory Commission Bill 2021, said the piece of legislation seeks to repeal the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (Establishment) Act 2005 and enact the Public Private Partnership Regulatory Commission Bill 2021.

According to the lawmaker, “One of the major challenges affecting the growth of the Nigerian economy is the huge deficit in both the areas of social and economic infrastructure; roads, railway, seaports, and airports, the provision of affordable health care and medical facilities to mention a few.

“To bridge this gap, massive investments must be made in the expansion of the country’s infrastructure services well beyond the resources and capacity of the government, which has been solely responsible for the provision of such infrastructure.”

The bill after scaling second reading was referred by the Senate President to the Committee on Works.

The Committee was given four weeks to report back to the chamber in plenary.

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Appreciation: “We Are Grateful for Your Support” – Ajia

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By AbdulRahman Obaje

The Ajia Ogbonde family of Ilorin has expressed deep and heartfelt appreciation to individuals, families, religious leaders, institutions, dignitaries, and well-wishers who stood by them during the mourning period following the passing of their beloved matriarch, Hajiya Maryam Mohammed Ajia.

In a press statement personally signed by Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, the Dan Amanar Fune, on behalf of the family, the Ajia Ogbonde clan expressed immense gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and condolences received from across the country and beyond.

Describing the support as overwhelming, the family acknowledged the role played by those who participated in the Janaza rites at the National Mosque, Abuja, and those who made time to attend the 3rd Day and 7th Day Fidau prayers held in Abuja and Ilorin respectively, despite their tight schedules.

“We are truly grateful to everyone who stood in solidarity with us during this painful moment. Your presence, prayers, and words of comfort meant so much to us,” the statement read.

The family offered special thanks to His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, Mai-Martaba Sheikh (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, for his fatherly support and spiritual leadership during the mourning period.

They also appreciated His Royal Highness, the Emir of Fune, Dr. Idris Saleh Uthman, for honouring the family through a powerful delegation led by the District Head of Cubana to the Abuja Fidau prayer.

The statement listed an array of dignitaries and high-profile personalities whose presence and messages of condolence brought great comfort to the bereaved family. These include former Senate Presidents Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim (GCON) and Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, the Waziri of Ilorin, and former Inspector-General of Police IGP MD Abubakar (CFR).

Also acknowledged were former Kwara State Governor, HE Abdulfatah Ahmed, former Minister of Youth and Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, former Minister of Power, Engr. Abubakar D. Aliyu, current Senator representing Kwara Central, Sen. Saliu Mustapha, Sen. Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe, former DG of NEMA, Alhaji Sani Sidi, and Prof. Oba Abdulraheem, former Chairman of the Federal Character Commission.

The sitting Governor of Kwara State was represented by Alhaji Abdulrazak Jidda at the 7th Day Fidau prayer in Ilorin.

Other prominent individuals and community leaders recognized for their support include Alhaji Tajudeen Ibrahim Eleku, Alhaji Toyin Abubakar, Prof. Zanna Mohammed (Nile University), Alhaji Mohammed Bukar, Sarkin Sumaila Alhaji Bello Dansumaila, Engr. Musa Saidu, Engr. Ibrahim Usman, Engr. Kamaldeen Ubandawaki, Barr. Ismail Ahmed, Alhaji Mohammed Adamu Cimo, and executives of Saiha Network.

Particular gratitude was extended to the Council of Ulama of Kwara State, led by the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir (CON), and the FCT Council of Ulama, including Sheikh Abdulkadir Oba Sholagberu, Sheikh Fuad Adeyemi, and Sheikh Sharafudeen Aliagan, for their spiritual guidance and physical presence during the mourning.

The family also commended members of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly Courses 21 and 36/2002, various youth groups, political party stakeholders from the PDP, APC, and a new coalition party, as well as War College Estate Muslim Community and Resident Association, members of the National Assembly, Federal Executive Council, and the business and academic communities.

Also mentioned among the sympathizers were Engr. Suleiman Yahaya Alapasanpa (Danmasani of Ilorin), Sarauniya of Ilorin, Hajia Muinat Shagaya, Hajiya Saadat Dogobauchi, Princess Aisha Bubaram (ED North, First Bank Plc), Hon. Muktar Aliyu Betara, Sen. Haliru Jika, Hon. Ibrahim Jimba Baba, Hon. Nalaraba, Hon. Kabir Tukura, Hon. Jaafar Mubi, Chairman of Sobi FM, Alhaji Lukman Mustapha, Hon. Ladi Hassan, Engr. Kale Kawu, Ambassador Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki, Hon. Ahmed Yinka Aluko, Hon. Muktar Shagaya, Alhaji Sheriff Shagaya, Alhaji Hakeem Shagaya, former Kwara Assembly Speakers, Hon. Ali Ahmad and Hon. Razaq Atunwa, as well as the executives of IEDPU and IEYDPU.

“We are indeed overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support during our moment of grief. The legacy of our beloved mother, Hajiya Maryam Mohammed Ajia, lives on in our hearts,” the family stated.

The Ajia Ogbonde family concluded the message by praying for Allah’s mercy upon the departed soul and asking for divine blessings upon all who shared in their pain.

“We pray that Almighty Allah grants our dear mother Aljannatul Firdaus and continues to unite us in peace and brotherhood. We shall forever remain grateful.”

Late Hajiya Maryam Mohammed Ajia was a revered matriarch known for her piety, wisdom, and compassion. Her life, the family said, remains an enduring source of inspiration and spiritual strength.

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Ododo Mourns Late Former President Muhammadu Buhari

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From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Ododo in a statement signed by the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, described President Buhari’s passing as a monumental loss not only to Nigeria, but to the African continent, and indeed the world.

He described President Buhari as a leader of quiet strength, deep convictions, and a patriotic heart wholly committed to the unity, progress, and stability of Nigeria.

Ododo further described the death if the former president as “a moment of national grief and a reminder of the enduring legacy of discipline, integrity and sacrifice that President Buhari stood for.

“President Buhari was a man who came at different times in our national history to steer the ship of state with a deep sense of responsibility.

“He was not a man of many words, but one whose actions consistently reflected his belief in a better, safer, and more self-reliant Nigeria.”

“Kogi State will remember him for his commitment to critical infrastructure, national security, and his consistent stand against corruption.

“His efforts laid a solid foundation upon which successive administrations, including ours in Kogi, continue to build.

“We stand in solidarity with the Government and people of Katsina State, the family of the late statesman, and indeed all Nigerians, as we mourn a patriot who gave his all in service to the nation.

“May Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus.”

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DG Kogi State Government House Administration Honors Outgoing Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olajide Samuel

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By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh

Director General of the Kogi State Government House Administration, Dr (Alh) Shuaibu Umar Oricha, July 10, 2025 in Lokoja described Mr. Samuel Olajide JP as “truly worth celebrating,” commending his humility and exceptional character. “I have no doubt that he is heading to greater heights. He should prepare for even bigger responsibilities,” Alhaji Oricha said.

Dr Oricha during a Sendforth Party Organized by the Ministry of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning in collaboration with the Pooled PRS Staff noted that he was always happy with the level of dedication of the celebrant, stressing that any time it was the time for budget preparation and the celebrant was around , I will always go and sleep because a capable hand is available.

“Today I can stand tall to congratulate you as a permanent secretary of Budget and Economic Planning.
I stand bold to say that your have retired but not tired.
I want to personally appreciate you for recognising yesterday. You are indeed a normal human being”
On behalf of Government Administration I wish you success in your endeavours” he said.

He also assured the Celebrant that the Governor, the Chief Servant of the state His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo was aware of your retirement adding that the celebrant deserves higher responsibility.

The Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, Hon. Asiwaju Idris, praised Mr. Samuel’s tireless role in developing the State Development Plan, emphasizing the importance of diligence and integrity in public service. “When given a task, do it with all your heart. The results will speak louder than the praises of men,” Hon. Idris stated.

Head of the Civil Service, Mr. Elijah Evinemi, noted that Mr. Samuel’s name became synonymous with excellence during his tenure, thanks to his ability to lead with empathy and empower others. “This transition marks not an end, but the beginning of a new chapter,” Mr. Evenemi added.

The ceremony was attended by various stakeholders, including the Acting Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Sarah Ocheja, who commended Mr. Samuel for his service and mentorship.

Amb. Idris Muriana, Chairperson of the Kogi NGOs Network, also praised Mr. Samuel’s people-oriented mindset and commitment to serving the public.

Mr. Olajide Samuel, the outgoing Permanent Secretary of Budget in Kogi State’s Ministry of Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, was celebrated for his dedication, impactful contributions, and meritorious service. He was praised of his humility, exceptional leadership, and commitment to fiscal discipline.
The ceremony highlighted Mr. Samuel’s achievements and the impact of his service on Kogi State’s development

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