A Nigerian newspaper and Online version of the Vanguard, a daily publication in Nigeria covering Niger delta, general national news, politics, business, energy, sports, entertainment, fashion,lifestyle human interest stories, etc
Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has condoled with the family of late Alh. Maitama Sule, as well as, the government and people of Kano State on the passage of Dan Masanin Kano who died on Monday at the age of 88 years.Maitama Sule
The Ex-President's commiseration was conveyed in a statement by his spokesperson, Mr. Ikechukwu Eze.
Dr. Jonathan described Alh. Sule as a bridge builder and advocate of peaceful co-existence who worked relentlessly for Nigeria's development.
He “described him as a committed patriot and celebrated African statesman whose efforts helped bring an end to apartheid.”
The statement read in part: "I am deeply saddened by the passage of Dan Masanin Kano, Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Sule, who died today at the age of 88.
"He was an accomplished leader, diplomat and elder statesman who served Nigeria and Africa in different capacities to the best of his abilities. I remember him as a great leader who worked relentlessly for Nigeria's development.
"He functioned as a reliable navigator in difficult times both at home and abroad, especially with the commitment he showed towards dismantling the last vestiges of apartheid.
"The canon he preached and lived as a committed patriot was genuine love for our nation which manifested in his sincerity, hardwork and deep embrace of people and politicians from all parts of the country.
"He will always be remembered as a bridge builder and advocate of peaceful co-existence. One of his numerous axioms which I continue to recall was the astute admonition he made while giving a convocation lecture in the University of Port Harcourt in 2006, where he counselled that "young breed without the old breed will breed greed."
Abuja – The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has deployed a Short Message Service (SMS) that allows members of the public to ascertain and verify the authenticity of their National Identification Number (NIN) and access other services.Buhari – NIMC
Mr Loveday Ogbonna, Head of Corporate Affairs of the Commission, made this known in a statement on Monday in Abuja.
According to Ogbonna, the services provided by the SMS platform include the Personal NIN Lookup, which allows an individual check their NIN;
"The Card Status Check, which check the print and delivery status of an individual's National e-ID Card.
"The Change Telephone Number, which allows an individual change the phone number used during enrolment to a new one where the old phone number is no longer available and the Help, which allows an individual seek help on available services," he said.
He said individuals could check their NIN by sending the key word "mynin" to any of the specified number and the result would be the sender's NIN.
The official said that the phone number used for sending the request must correspond with the number the individual supplied to NIMC at the time of registration.
Ogbonna said where the individual seeks to change their telephone number, they could sends "Changeme/FirstName/Surname/OldPhoneNo/Last4digitNIN" and the service will reply with the user's full name and acknowledgement of the change from the old number to the new number.
"In the same vein, where a "cardstatus" request is sent to the specified phone numbers, it returns the state of readiness (where applicable) of the card.
"Responses include: Card ready but not dispatched, Card ready, where the card is ready, it displays your batch ID and other details to enable you pick up your card, or Card Collected.
According to him, similarly, the "Help" function is sent to any of the numbers listed below in order to seek help on available services where the individual is not conversant with any of the available SMS Card and NIN services.
"To request for any of these services, the general public is invited to send the SMS to any of the following numbers: +234 908 000 0871 (Etisalat), +234 903 000 0872 (MTN), +234 705 820 0871(Glo), and +234 708 420 0871 (Airtel)," he said.
Ogbonna noted that for Nigerians to enjoy any of these services, they may be required to opt out of the Do-Not-Disturb (D-N-D) policy implemented by some telecommunication companies on their phone lines.
For detailed information, he said, please visit – www.nimc.gov.ng
Lagos – All Progressives Congress national leader, Sen. Bola Tinubu, says the death of Alhaji Maitama Sule has reduced the rank of true nationalists at a time the nation is in dire need of wise counsel.Maitama Sule
Tinubu, in a statement on Monday said Sule's death came at a time the nation is in dire need of wise counsel on how to navigate through potential landmines.
He described the late statesman as a detribalised Nigerian, whose death is not only a loss to his family and Kano State, but to the entire country.
Sule died at the early hours of Monday in a hospital in Cairo, Egypt, at 87.
Tinubu said the consolation, however, was that Sule lived to a ripe age, and in his lifetime, made an indelible mark as a politician, diplomat and statesman.
"He personified what we should all be: Nigerians who know no tribe, region or religion. Danmasanin Kano was a truly detribalised Nigerian and he was always at the vanguard of peace and unity.
"His death has reduced the rank of true nationalists at this time when the nation is in dire need of wise counsel on how to navigate through potential landmines.
"Danmasanin Kano was a rare statesman and an orator who can move mountains with words. I related with him closely and drank from his vast knowledge.
' I will personally miss him. May Almighty Allah grant him Aljanna Fridaus, " Tinubu said.
ABUJA-The forum of former Peoples Democratic Party, PDP Ministers yesterday took the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to the cleaners, particularly in its handling of the security challenges in the country. From the left, Former Minister for Niger Delta Development, Elder Godsday Orubebe (l) flanked by Former Council members during the meeting of the Former PDP Ministers’ Forum at Asokoro, Abuja
In a meeting at the Abuja home of the former Minister of Special duties, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, the ex-ministers expressed confidence in the ability of the PDP to constructively put the ruling party on its toes, preparatory to the next general elections.
"The forum observes with great concern the deteriorating security situation in this country particularly the increasing spate of kidnapping, armed robbery and the unchecked menace of herdsmen that regularly killed, rapped and vandalized the farmlands of a lot of farmers in the communities," said Turaki who added that the failure of leadership on the part of the Buhari-led government has caused divisions among Nigerians across religions and ethnic cleavages.
"The Forum also notes that as a result of the inept leadership of the APC-led federal government of Nigeria; Nigerians have never been so polarized along regional, tribal, ethnic, religious and other divides and we feel that this is really most unfortunate.
"The forum…strongly feel that the APC government should be alive and up to its responsibility as a government to Nigerians and we wish President Muhammadu Buhari quick recovery and to return to his post as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria," Turaki added on behalf of the Forum.
And in what appeared a rejection of the Senator Ali Modu Sheriff leadership of the party, the Forum pledged its allegiance to the National Caretaker Committee, NCC led by former governor of Kaduna State, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, lauding its effort aimed at making the PDP a party to be reckoned with.
"The National Caretaker Committee led by Senator Makarfi has been playing a commendable role in keeping the members of the party together and upholding the tenets of the vision of the party. The Forum therefore reaffirms its confidence in the caretaker committee.
"The Forum resolves to remain committed to the ideals, vision and mission of the PDP and we are determined to join other organs of the party in revitalizing the party into a virile and more credible opposition," Turaki noted.
Fielding questions from journalists on the gale of defections in the PDP, the former Minister dismissed the development, arguing that politics "is all about interest." According to him, the party remains strong in spite of the defections to the ruling party.
"Life is dynamic and in the process of that dynamism, people move, changes unfold, thinking differs and new realignments come into play. Politics is about interest," he said, adding that it is not true that a stalwart of the party, Doyin Okupe has left the PDP.
"You gave an example of Okupe. If you read his speech very carefully, he said there are reservations why he thinks for now, he should siddon look but he has not said he is going into any other party," Turaki further explained.
Responding to a question on the President's state of health, Turaki said the Forum has not forgotten what Buhari said while President Umaru Yar'Adua found himself in a similar situation but noted it would not hit back in similar fashion, saying the PDP is praying for the recovery of the President to face the PDP in the 2019 general elections.
Also of worry to the opposition party is what it termed the "unnecessary persecution" of its members by the APC, citing the recent raid in the home of former Vice President, Namadi Sambo.
"The Forum once again wishes to condemn in very clear terms, the unnecessary persecution and decimation of the opposition and the unwarranted invasion of the residence of the immediate past Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Architect Namadi Sambo and the continued harassment and detention of key members of the opposition," the ex-Ministers continued.
In a chat with newsmen on the sideline, former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode used the occasion of the Forum's meeting to pay tribute to First Republic Minister, Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Sule who died in a Cairo hospital yesterday. Fani-Kayode described the departed octogenarian as detribalized Nigeria "who fought for the unity of the country" at all times and a man "who stood firm by the Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa" even after he was killed.
The meeting had in attendance Engineer Mike Onolomemen, Professors A.B.C. Nwosu, Tunde Adeniran, Jerry Gana, Abubakar Sulaiman, Elder Godsday Orubebe, Mrs. Josephine Anenih, Comrade Abba Moro and a host of others.
A FLOOR safety expert, Mr. Tomasz Wolski has said that floor safety should be of paramount importance to facility managers, property owners and every Nigerian.
Making this known at the just concluded three-day training programme in Lagos organized by No-slips Limited, the Nigerian representative and service provider for Surestep, a non-slip floor treatment solution in Nigeria, Tomasz, a citizen of Poland and a certified global Surestep trainer and safety professional, stated that the importance of floor treatment cannot be overemphasized as slip and fall accidents are a common occurrence at work places, event centres, homes and other high traffic facilities adding that, the effect of a slip and fall accident can be fatal.
According to him, "Floor safety is important because we walk on floors every day. Safety and health are the two most important aspects of human well being so why won't we care about it. Very often people forget about floor safety but I think that our floors should never be unsafe."
Also speaking during the training exercise, the Chief Executive Officer CEO, of No-Slips Limited, Mr. Charles Igbinidu said, people don't take floor safety serious because much attention is not drawn to slip and fall accidents in Nigeria.
"People need to start taking floor safety very seriously. All over the world, people are constantly experiencing slip and fall accidents and every one of us can testify to that because, at some point in our lives we have experienced it. Many people sustain permanent injuries and sometimes victims may die", Igbinidu said.
MINISTER of Federal Capital Territory, Mallam Muhammad Bello, has promised to ensure strict adherence to laid down guidelines in mass housing programme in the Federal Capital Territory FCT, even as he lauded developers of Court Estate, Abuja, Crown Realties, for embarking on a housing scheme that will enable FCT residents to rent and eventually own their apartments 15 years after occupying the apartments.
FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Musa-Bello
Bello, who was speaking at the unveiling of the Court Estate in Durumi, Abuja, said the population of FCT had been growing at a rate of 20 per cent annually, adding that the project was in line with the mandate of the present administration to provide affordable houses for the residents.
The estate comprising 81 units of single family residential apartments with boys quarters, was built in two phases.
Represented by Engr. Umar Gambo, the Minister noted that efforts are ongoing to ensure that such infractions do not occur in the future by ensuring strict adherence to laid down guidelines.
Lamenting a situation where estates are developed but remained unoccupied as a result of the high cost, Bello noted that Crown Realties ‘lease to own’ initiative would enhance housing ownership.
His words: "Let me say that the FCT Administration sees this project as a gesture of good will and a demonstration of confidence in the present administration which is working round the clock to not only address the housing deficit in the country but also attract foreign direct investment into the sector.
"I am particularly happy to see that the whole estate was conceived with the lower income earners in mind, with an innovative programme called Lease-To-Own, which I was told would allow your clients to own a house by leasing or renting the property over a 15 year period.
“This is a good idea which I must say is highly commendable and it is also in tune with the vision of the FCT administration."
In his remark, the Chief Executive, Crown Realties Plc, Mr. Darl Uzu described the estate as a place to live a good life, pointing out that aside from the modern facilities and technology driven security system used in the construction of the estate, the residential estate is built with a golf court and runs on 24-hour power system.
Abuja – President of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick, on Monday in Abuja inaugurated a 12-member Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 2017 NFF/ Aieto Federation Cup.•DONE DEAL … NFF President, Amaju Pinnick and AITEO's DMD, Francis Peters (in handshake) have the company of Aisha Falode (left), Shehu Dikko (second left), Seyi Akinwunmi (third left), Victor Okoronkwo (right), A. U. Mustapha (second right) and Andrew Onyearu (third right) during the 'Naming Right' of the NFF Federation Cup ceremony.
Inaugurating the committee, Pinnick revealed that the present NFF board would leave no stone unturned to have a competition which would be a better replacement for the Federation Cup.
The NFF/Aieto Federation Cup is replacing the Federation Cup, which the NFF introduced in 2009 to replace the former FA Cup or Challenge Cup.
"We all know what happened last week in Lagos when NFF announced the partnership with Aieto Company, a partnership that includes the sponsorship of the Federation Cup, now `Aieto Cup'.
"Based on the agreement with the company to form a committee that will give us a very befitting grand finale for both the male and female competitions, we have decided to put in the best hands we have in the federation towards a smooth and best 2017 Aieto Cup.
"We want to see the best competition for the male and female categories, especially now that the prize money for the Aieto Cup will be N25 million for the winners of the men's competition.
"Winners in the female category will win N10 million also.
"The runners-up for the men's competition will get N10 million, while the runners-up for the women's event will go home with N5 million,'' he said.
Seyi Akinwumi, Chairman of the 2017 NFF/Aieto Cup Federation Committee, expressed the readiness of the committee's members for a smooth and well-organised competition.
He however sought the support of every stakeholder for the success of the competition.
"I want to thank the NFF board for the task given to us. We will bring some innovation to the game. Discussions about that are ongoing. Also, the media will have a very crucial job to do.
"Not only that, we are going to have different dates for the male and female final matches, unlike what we used to have before.
"I am seeking the support of every stakeholder because we cannot do it alone.
"I am not saying that we will be perfect, but perfection is our goal. We want to move forward to a new glory,'' he said.
Other members of the committee are: Shehu Dikko, Ibrahim Musa, Ibrahim Gusau, Shariff Inuwa, Aisha Falode, Suleiman Kwande, Ahmed Fresh and Mohammed Sanusi, who will serve as secretary.
Two representatives from Aieto and a legal Adviser would also serve in the committee
Former Special Adviser (Media) to Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, Mr. Jude Ndukwe, has replied the ex-aide to Former President, Goodluck Jonathan, Pastor Reno Omokri, saying the ex-Jonathan's aide is a coward and a slave boy who stays abroad and picks on soft spots to attack but then hides "like a sickly fowl just saved from lightning-induced electrocution" when those he thinks are bigger than him direct even derogatory words at him and his principal.
Mr. Ndukwe is replying a statement credited to Omokri wherein the ex-Jonathan's aide equated the personal opinion of the overall leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, to that of Ndigbo in general. Pastor Omokri had said that Kanu's statement that Former President Jonathan was weak is a statement of ingratitude from Ndigbo.
But Mr. Ndukwe said Omokri who claims he is a pastor "without any anointing" and "who was anonymous, lame and ineffectual in his days as media aide to Goodluck Jonathan" to the extent that he could not prevent the now ruling government which was the opposition then from emasculating the good image of his principal was rather enjoying then even to the dwindling image of his principal.
He also said that Omokri has now begun his duty as an aide, much very late, a situation he describes as "scoring a much needed goal only after the match has ended."
Omokri Vs Ndukwe
“We must have heard how the former media aide to erstwhile president Goodluck Jonathan, Reno Omokri, the self-called pastor and founder of the Mind of Chrsit Christian Centre, embarked on an ill-advised and futile attempt at lecturing the Igbo nation on diplomacy in reaction to a statement credited to Nnamdi Kanu, the IPOB leader, on president Goodluck Jonathan.
“It is most unfortunate that Omokri would take a statement by Nnamdi Kanu as a statement by the Igbo, and weave same to make it look like the Igbo met somewhere as a nation, concluded on what to say about Jonathan and detailed Kanu to speak on their behalf.
“Having served at that level of government and run a self-found church for this long (most probably without any anointing), one would have thought that Reno would be circumspect in his approach to such matters rather than blow it out of proportion by apportioning it to the Igbo while using that opportunity to run a web of tirades against the Igbo who were as shocked as anyone else by Kanu's statements.
“Even if anyone should want to say what Kanu said about Jonathan, the general belief in Igboland is that it should not have come from a brother anywhere between the south east and south-south.
“But then, Reno, who was anonymous, lame and ineffectual in his days as media aide to Goodluck Jonathan, was to the extent that he and his colleagues allowed the opposition to literally run the government of Jonathan aground and out of town but for the intervention of people like Femi-Fani-Kayode, which, though, came late, was, nevertheless, so effective that the opposition got distracted from Jonathan and faced FFK squarely, threatening fire and brimstone, and court cases while Jonathan's rating rose so high within the period FFK joined his campaign.
“If Reno had been just even one per cent as effective as he is now, running after every Tom, Dick and Harry who says anything about Jonathan, when he was media aide, the opposition would have had no space to run their propaganda, half-truths and outright falsehood against the former president.
“The impression Reno creates now is that he was so comfortable enjoying the perks of office and a very sure income that he cared less about his job and its sensitive nature to the image of the person and government of Jonathan.
“Of course, we all know that church business is no longer as lucrative in America as it used to be, that country is fast turning its back on the church, so the pastors there, especially those like Reno, who called themselves to church business as a means of livelihood, can hardly make ends meet.
“The income is low for the Renos of this world, and to shore up whatever little they get from there, they have to try to remain relevant by spewing gibberish against a people in the name of defending Jonathan.
“While it is unacceptable to some of us to describe Jonathan in uncomplimentary remarks, we still remember very well that the governor of Bayelsa State, Seriake Dickson, an Ijaw man like Jonathan himself, said that Jonathan's six years as president was a waste. While we condemn Dickson for such insulting remark, it would be wrong for anyone to claim that it was the Ijaw that spoke through Dickson.
“Those of us who condemned Dickson for such remarks, condemned him as a person, and even though he is the governor of Bayelsa State, we would still not arrogate such malicious remark to the good people of Bayelsa. So, why would Reno ascribe Kanu's remarks about Jonathan to Ndigbo and not ascribe Dickson's to the Ijaw?
“What lesson in diplomacy does Reno want the Igbo to learn when the region is peopled by some of the finest diplomats, ladies and gentlemen that can be found anywhere in the world and have risen to the height of their respective callings, towering above many others? From Emeka Anyaoku to Alex Ekwueme, Onyeka Onwenu, Cardinal Arinze, Nwankwo Kanu just to mention a few.
“It is on record that Wole Soyinka once made reference to Jonathan as the inglorious King Nebuchadnezzar of biblical days and described Patience Jonathan as "mere appendage of power…" and other unsavoury things he had said then about the former president and his family. But Reno then operated like a sickly fowl just saved from lightning-induced electrocution: helpless, weak, incompetent and ineffectual while the Soyinkas, Lai Mohammeds etc had a field day against his principal.
“How come Soyinka's statement was not arrogated to the Yoruba then?
“One can only imagine how the Igbo would have been bashed if it was an Igbo man that described Jonathan as clueless. Of course, the traditional media would have gone gaga and the social media would have gone haywire. The statement would have been "the Igbo lack diplomacy, they lack respect, they lack courtesy" etc. But because it was somebody from the other side of the divide that said it, it could be forgiven, it could be forgotten. Not so, never so for the Igbo man. He must not talk or else he is labeled. Such nonsense!
“Nobody heard Reno arrogating that balderdash against Jonathan in Segun Adeniyi's book "Against the Run of Play" to the Yoruba, and rightly so too. Segun Adeniyi may be Yoruba but he does not equate to Yoruba. The same goes for Nnamdi Kanu. One can only imagine what the Igbo would have been subjected to if that propaganda and hate-filled book had been written by an Igbo man.
“While Jonathan faced acerbic and scurrilous attacks even from his own people in south-south, the Igbo stood by him solidly. One can only thank God that Rotimi Amaechi is not Igbo, or Timipre Sylva, or Magnus Abe etc, the Renos of this world would have been convulsing with hate and use every opportunity available to spew such in-built hate against Ndigbo in the media.
“It is even more nightmarish to remember that Jonathan lost the 2015 election majorly to image problem created by the opposition and unchallenged by the president's media aides of which Reno was a prominent member.
“The fact is that the Igbo love Jonathan even till tomorrow no matter what the Renos of this world try to make us feel or think. Apart from high ranking appointments, it was Jonathan who destroyed the plans of our common foes to keep Ndigbo perpetually inaccessible and locked out from the outside world when he declared the Enugu airport an international air route for Nigeria thereby opening the south-East directly to the world. That was not a mean feat given the fact that it was done against the powerful wish of those who have held this country down for so long with their oppressive agenda.
“That singular action by Jonathan has opened the south east to enormous opportunities that can only be appreciated not only now but forever.
“However, the south east is also suffering for their support to Jonathan at the 2015 elections. Our businessmen in the oil & gas industry, auto-industry, cement industry, manufacturing industry etc, are being hounded freely today by security agencies because of their open support for the former president.
“The reversal of some of Jonathan's policies like that of the automobile industry was directed at the Igbo who were already making giant strides in that sector before the coming of Buhari.
“Today, our busineses suffer for our free democratic choice to support Jonathan. We have no regrets about that at all. We are never known to abandon our own even when the battle is fiercest, it does not matter what gossips and betrayers say about us. Our loyalty is always total and unalloyed.
“The suffering assumed an official dimension and got the official stamp of the presidency when Buhari made the infamous and unfortunate declaration of 97% vs 5%! The good thing is that what the Igbo saw in 2015 while sitting, those who did not see it even while standing on the Iroko tree are now seeing it and wished they had towed the same line with the Igbo during the elections.
“No matter what Nnamdi Kanu says, Jonathan will continue to enjoy the support of Ndigbo even till death. We will not betray him like some of his own people have done. Kanu might have said what he said, but the truth is, given another opportunity to choose between Jonathan and Buhari, even Kanu would still choose Jonathan.
“He is not like Reno who is scoring a much needed goal only after the match has ended. Such a needless, meaningless and useless goal…
“Rather than his diatribe against the Igbo, Reno would do well to come out from hiding, return to Nigeria and join in the noble task of tackling this oppressive and tyrannical government that has brought so much distrust among brothers and sown so much hate among neighbours. It is an act of cowardice to remain in San Francisco and keep picking on soft targets while the real despots in the country get away with severe and several acts of unconstitutionality.
“Even if he decides to remain in distant lands, when next Reno wants to attack, he should choose his subjects carefully. Ndigbo are not Jonathan's problem. People like Reno who think they can continue to be hypocritical in order to impress Jonathan should learn to deliver their messages as aides and not as slaves!
“Lastly, Jonathan remains Nigeria's hero of democracy. It is his meekness that has exposed Buhari's gross incompetence and tyranny. If Jonathan had behaved like strong men behave in Africa, we would not have had the opportunity to know that Buhari is the worst president Nigeria would ever have.
“Meekness is no weakness. It is the strong that let go. Jonathan let go to save the nation from the precipice, and today we have all learnt enormous lessons from that singular act of magnanimity.
The Anambra Government says it will boost the country's food security via the preservation of farm produce.
The state's Deputy Governor, Dr Nkem Okeke, said this in Awka on Monday at the demonstration ceremony of drying equipment for preserving agricultural produce.
"Anambra is on the agricultural map of the country as a result of the thoughtfulness and willingness of Gov. Willie Obiano to develop the state for the good of all citizens.
Nkem Okeke
"We are developing our rural economy and agriculture; that is why all hands must be on the deck as to take the state to an enviable height," he said.
Okeke, who was represented by his Special Assistant on Agriculture, Mr Moke Egbuekwe, said that the Obiano-administration placed high premium on the development of rural economy.
He said that was why it embarked on massive road constructions across the state to open up the rural areas.
In his remark, the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Solo Chukwulobelu, urged the citizens to key into the state government's programmes aimed at enhancing the state's development.
"I call on all to participate in these laudable programmes, as this administration will always embark on programmes that will enhance our agricultural potential," he said.
Mr Olu Aiyegbusi, a resource person who spoke on the topic, "Agriculture Value Chain: Minimising Post-Harvest Losses", said that Nigerians could feed themselves and still export agricultural produce, if the nation initiated and implemented good policies.
"This country can be self-sufficient in food production, hence the need for us to learn pre-treatment and drying techniques for our foodstuffs.
"For enhanced productivity, our people have to minimize waste; through that we will be able to bring down the rising cost of goods," he said.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has described the late elder statesman, Alhaji Maitama Sule, as a progressive voice who made the country proud in all assignments he undertook for the country, locally and internationally.
Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, APC National Publicity Secretary made this known in a statement on Monday in Abuja, adding that Nigeria had indeed lost a distinguished public servant and a patriot.
He also said the deceased, also known by his traditional title as "Danmasanin Kano" was a patriot who espoused the God-given strengths and positive attributes of all the constituent ethnicities in the country.
Abdullahi commiserated with the late Sule's immediate family, Emir of Kano, the people and Government of Kano State, the Federal Government and the international community over the loss.
The APC spokesman also recalled the late Sule`s exemplary services as two-time minister and pioneer head of the Public Complaints Commission (PCC).
He said that as former Nigerian Permanent Representative to the United Nations, the late Sule chaired the important United Nations Standing Committee Against Apartheid then ravaging South Africa.
"Indeed, Nigeria has lost an eminent son whose life and work and memories will be forever celebrated and remembered, " Abdullahi, said.
He prayed the Almighty God to give the deceased eternal rest and his family, the strength to bear the loss.
Newsmen report that the late Sule became Minister of Mines and Power in 1954 at the age of 29.
He signed deals and contracts with Shell for oil prospecting and exploration in Nigeria and contested the presidential ticket of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in 1979.
The deceased was widely acclaimed for his oratory prowess which endeared him to many Nigerians and politicians across board.
The late Sule died at 88, at the early hours of Monday while on admission at a private hospital in Cairo, Egypt.
He was said to have been flown to the Egyptian hospital on Saturday after doctors at Kano's Nasarawa Hospital diagnosed him of pneumonia and chest infection.
His corpse is expected to be flown back to Nigeria on Tuesday for burial at the Kano Emir's Palace.
By Dirisu Yakubu ABUJA – The Peoples Democratic Party National Caretaker Committee (PDP-NCC) has paid a glowing tribute to elder statesman, Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Sule who died Monday in Cairo, Egypt, aged 87.
The party expressed shock at his demise even as it commiserated with the deceased's family as well as the government and people of Kano State, Maitama's state of origin.
"The Leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) under Senator Ahmed Makarfi on behalf of the entire organs of the party commiserate with the government and people of Kano State especially, Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, in particular, the family of the deceased icon, and the nation over the demise of this great orator, politician, and diplomat, Alhaji Maitama Sule.
"The Late Maitama Sule was the pioneer Chairman of the Public Complaint Commission (PCC) in 1975, an office created by the regime to hear complaints from Nigerians on all issues of governance. He carried out this responsibility diligently and reduced corruption index in the Country by using the PCC Platform to expose corrupt officers in government.
"He was a two-time Minister in the Ministries of Internal Affairs and Commerce respectively; Nigerian’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN) in 1979 and he served as the Chairman of the UN Special Committee on Apartheid during the first tenure of Alhaji Shehu Shagari, a position he discharged with great responsibilities especially in the apartheid discussions of South Africa.
Alhaji Maitama Sule has left us at a time his wise and experienced counsel is still needed. His demise is not only a loss to the Nation but also to Africa. We will miss his astute contribution on various issues of national development," the party wrote and prayed for the repose of his soul.
"We pray Allah rest his Soul; and pray the fortitude for his family to bear this great loss," it added.
By Ikechukwu Nnochiri ABUJA – The Nigerian Immigration Service, NIS, Monday, narrated before the Federal High Court in Abuja, how Justice Sylvester Ngwuta of the Supreme Court who is facing corruption charges, allegedly used false age to obtain multiple international passports. Justice Sylvester Ngwuta of the Supreme Court
A Deputy Controller of Immigration, Mr. Tanko Kutana, who testified before the court as the third prosecution witness, PW-3, said that the embattled jurist had between 2012 and 2016, obtained four different international passports, adding that two of them were diplomatic passports that could gain the defendant entrance into any country.
According to the witness, the NIS issued second passport to Ngwuta after he claimed that he lost the one that was previously issued to him.
Kutana told the court that he formerly served at the document fraud unit of the NIS as a forensic expert before he was transferred to the Benue Command.
He said that the first passport which was issued to the defendant on November 29, 2012, will expire by November 28, 2017, while the second passport which will expire on April 10, 2021, was issued to the defendant on April 20, 2016.
The witness said he conducted forensic examination on the four passports after they were handed over to him by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation following the raid the Department of State Service, DSS, conducted at Justice Ngwuta’s home in October last year.
Kutana who earlier gave his Evidence-in-Chief in the matter and cross-examined by the defence team led by Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, was recalled to the witness box after FG increased charges against Ngwuta from 12 to 13 counts.
He was led in evidence yesterday by government lawyer, Mrs. Olufemi Fatunde.
Meanwhile, trial Justice John Tsoho has adjourned further hearing on the case till October 6.
Justice Ngwuta is facing charges bordering on money laundering charge, age falsification, as well as his alleged possession of multiple international passports.
He was docked before the high court on November 21, 2016, and subsequently granted bail to the tune of N100million.
FG told the court that shortly after Ngwuta was granted administrative bail by the DSS, he quickly called the PW-1, Mr. Linus Nwamba to help him conceal some of the evidence against him, including N27million he hid in his bathroom at Abakaliki in Ebonyi State.
The prosecution told the court that the defendant equally removed three exotic cars from his residence in his home town.
It told the court that the witness, Nwamba, initially hid the bag that contained the N27m cash at the residence of one Abraham Ezeani in Abakaliki, saying the Money “was subsequently dissipate by Mr Nwamba on the direct instructions of the defendant/applicant”.
It listed the three exotic cars that Ngwuta allegedly attempted to conceal, as a Hummer Jeep Sports Utility Vehicle, Wrangler Jeep Sports Utility Vehicle and a BMW 5 Series Sedan Vehicle which it said was quickly moved by the defendant to Clevero Hotel in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
FG said the properties which it maintained were derived from the proceeds of an unlawful act, were all subsequently recovered by investigators on November 11, following Nwamba’s arrest, weeks after the defendant had been released on administrative bail.
FG said the DSS, at the end of the search operation conducted at Ngwuta’s official residence, recovered several sums of cash, including the sum of Thirty-Five Million, Three Hundred and Fifty-Eight Thousand Naira (NGN35,358,000.00); Three Hundred and Nineteen Thousand, Five Hundred and Ninety- Six United States Dollars ($319,596.00).
As well as Twenty-Five Thousand Nine Hundred and Fifteen Pounds Sterling (GBP 25,915) and Two Hundred and Eighty Euros (EURO 280.00).
President Muhammadu Buhari has sent a personal letter of condolence to the Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, in which he expressed profound shock over the death of elder statesman, Alhaji (Dr) Yusuf Maitama Sule.
President Muhammadu Buhari
The letter, according to Buhar's spokesman Femi Adesina was personally signed by the President, described the death of Alhaji Sule as a “heavy loss” and will be delivered by the federal government delegation at the burial as constituted by the Acting President.
The President’s letter reads thus: “I have heard this morning, the death of the venerable Alhaji Maitama Sule, Dan Masanin Kano, and one of Nigeria’s famous sons. Although, I knew he was in poor health for some time, his death nonetheless, came as a profound shock.
"As a Minister in the First Republic, he was one of those who assisted our Founding Fathers, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Alhaji Ahmadu Bello and Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, to fashion Nigeria politically and lay the grounds of national co-existence.
“Maitama Sule was blessed by God with a wonderful voice and outstanding eloquence. He served with distinction in the First Republic, the Second Military regime, as well as the Second Republic, without him being tainted with the remotest hint of scandal.
"As a person, I found him personable with unceasing good humour. Nothing personified his faith more than the fact that on losing his sight, he did not retreat in himself sulking on account of his ill-fortune. Quite to the contrary, he honoured virtually all invitations extended to him and spoke as usual with singular eloquence and unparalleled wit.
“In my discussions with him, I greatly valued his counsel, and I never ceased to be amazed by his concern for the well-being of his country rather than his personal interests.
"Let me extend my sincere condolences to Your Excellency, family and friends, the Government and people of Kano, and Nigerians as a whole, for this most heavy loss. We shall not soon see the like of him. May God forgive his sins and admit him to Paradise, Amin.”
Abuja – The Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr Nsima Ekere, has assured that the emergency repairs on failed portions of the East West Road, Rivers, will be completed within three weeks.
Mr Ibitoye Abosede, Director Corporate Affairs, NDDC, gave this assurance in a statement on Monday in Abuja.
Abosede quoted Ekere as giving the assurance while inspecting work on the road.File photo: Travellers wading through East-West road cut-off by flood as captured by Vanguard’s Akpokona Omafuaire during a tour of the road by the South-South Regional Editor of Vanguard, Emma Amaize recently.
He was accompanied by the Executive Director Projects, Mr Samuel Adjogbe, and other directors of the Commission.
The NDDC boss stressed the importance of the road, describing it as the gateway to economic activities in the Niger Delta region.
He declared: "This road means a whole lot to the people of the Niger Delta."
Ekere said that NDDC would ensure that the project was properly supervised to guarantee quality, adding: "So far, the quality of work here is impressive.
"I am not an engineer, but even as a lay man, the fact that you have to excavate as much as 2.5 metres in some areas to remove unsuitable materials before sand filling, speaks a lot about the work."
He commended the contractor for mobilisation to the site promptly and challenged other Nigerian contractors to work more for quality rather than profit.
"It is not as if the type of engineering we study in Nigeria is different from what is obtainable in any other part of the world. It is just a question of our attitude to work.
"For us in NDDC, we are interested in quality. We want to shame our critics and we want to ensure that we deliver for the common good of the people of the Niger Delta.
"We are committed to delivering quality roads and other infrastructure that meet international best practices and standards," he said.
The NDDC boss said that the objective of the Commission was to ameliorate the sufferings of motorists who ply the road, as well as improve the living conditions of the people of the region.
He urged the contractor to speed up work on the repairs.
Earlier, the Project Manager, Mr Efe Eloho, said that they faced a challenge with the soil texture, but promised that the repairs would stand the test of time.
"We excavate as much as 2.5 metres in some areas to remove unsuitable materials before filling with sharp sand and hard core."
He said that although the road was a major route for fuel tankers, he could guarantee that it would last for up to 20 years because of the high quality of work put into it.
Some excited motorists, who met the team at the inspection site at the Eleme Junction axis, praised the NDDC for the urgent intervention.
Mr Paul Okoede, who spoke for the road users, said that the highway was critical to the economic activities of the south-south region, praying that God should bless President Muhammadu Buhari to encourage him to do more.
AFC Bournemouth 6 July v Napoli, Vitality Stadium 15 July v Estoril Praia, Stadium Municipal, Marbella 22 July v Portsmouth, Fratton Park, Portsmouth 29 July v Queens Park Rangers, Loftus Road, London 30 July v Valencia, Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth 2 August v Yeovil Town, Huish Park, Yeovil
Arsenal 13 July v Sydney FC, ANZ Stadium, Sydney 15 July v Western Sydney Wanderers, ANZ Stadium, Sydney 19 July v Bayern Munich (Shanghai Stadium) International Champions Cup 22 July v Chelsea (Bird's Nest Stadium, Beijing) 29 July v Benfica, Emirates Stadium (Emirates Cup) 30 July v Sevilla, Emirates Stadium (Emirates Cup) 6 August v Chelsea, Wembley Stadium (Community Shield)
Brighton & Hove Albion 14 July v Fortuna Dusseldorf, Sportplatz St Ulrich, Austria 22 July v Crawley Town, Checkatrade.com Stadium, Crawley 25 July v Southend United, Roots Hall, Essex 29 July v Norwich City, Carrow Road, Norwich 1 August v Girona, Nou Estadi Municipal de Palamos, Catalonia 6 August v Atletico Madrid, Amex Stadium, Brighton
Burnley 14 July v Shamrock Rovers, Tallaght Stadium, Dublin 22 July v Kidderminster Harriers 22 July v Alfreton Town 25 July v Preston North End, Deepdale 29 July v Nottingham Forest, City Ground, Nottingham 1 August v Celta Vigo, Turf Moor, Burnley 5 August v Hannover 96, Turf Moor, Burnley
Chelsea 22 July v Arsenal, Bird's Nest Stadium, Beijing 25 July v Bayern Munich, National Stadium, Singapore (International Champions Cup) 29 July v Inter Milan, National Stadium, Singapore (International Champions Cup) 6 August v Arsenal, Wembley Stadium (Community Shield)
Crystal Palace 15 July v Maidstone United, Gallagher Stadium, Maidstone 19 July v Liverpool, Hong Kong Stadium, Hong Kong (PL Asia Trophy) 22 July v West Brom/Leicester City, Hong Kong Stadium, Hong Kong (PL Asia Trophy) 5 August v Schalke 04, Selhust Park, London
Everton 13 July v Gor Mahia FC, Tanzania National Main Stadium, Tanzania 19 July v FC Twente, SV De Lutte, Overijssel 22 July v KRC Genk, Luminus Arena, Genk 27 July v TBC (UEFA Europa League third qualifying round first leg) 3 August v TBC (UEFA Europa League third qualifying round second leg) 6 August v Sevilla, Goodison Park, Liverpool
Huddersfield Town 12 July v Accrington Stanley, Wham Stadium, Accrington 16 July v Bury, Gigg Lane 22 July v Barnsley, Oakwell, Barnsley 1 August v Stuttgart, Schwaz, Austria 4 August v Torino, Jenbach, Austria
Leicester City 19 July v West Brom, Hong Kong Stadium, Hong Kong (PL Asia Trophy) 22 July v Crystal Palace/Liverpool, Hong Kong Stadium, Hong Kong (PL Asia Trophy) 26 July v Luton Town, Kenilworth Road, Luton 28 July v MK Dons, Stadium MK, Milton Keynes 29 July v Wolverhampton Wanderers, Molineux Stadium, Wolverhampton 1 August v Burton Albion, Pirelli Stadium, Burton upon Trent 4 August v Borussia Monchengladbach, King Power Stadium, Leicester
Liverpool 12 July v Tranmere Rovers, Prenton Park, Birkenhead 14 July v Wigan Athletic, DW Stadium, Wigan 19 July v Crystal Palace, Hong Kong Stadium, Hong Kong (PL Asia Trophy) 22 July v West Brom/Leicester City, Hong Kong Stadium, Hong Kong (PL Asia Trophy) 29 July v Hertha BSC, Olympiastadion Berlin 1 August v Bayern Munich/Atletico Madrid/Napoli, Allianz Arena (Audi Cup) 2 August v Bayern Munich/Atletico Madrid/Napoli, Allianz Arena (Audi Cup) 5 August v Athletic Club, Aviva Stadium, Dublin
Manchester City 20 July v Manchester United, NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas (International Champions Cup) 26 July v Real Madrid, Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, (International Champions Cup) 29 July v Tottenham Hotspur, Nissan Stadium, Nashville, Tennessee (International Champions Cup) 4 August v West Ham United, Laugardalsvollur National Stadium, Reykjavik
Manchester United 15 July v LA Galaxy, Stubhub Centre, Los Angeles 17 July v Real Salt Lake, Rio Tinto Stadium, Sandy, Utah 20 July v Manchester City, NRG Stadium, Houston, Texas (International Champions Cup) 23 July v Real Madrid, Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, California (International Champions Cup) 26 July v Barcelona, FedExField, Washington DC (International Champions Cup) 30 July v Valerenga, Ullevaal Stadium, Oslo 2 August v Sampdoria, Aviva Stadium, Dublin 8 August v Real Madrid, National Arena Filip II, FYR Macedonia (UEFA Super Cup)
Newcastle United 14 July v Heart of Midlothian, Tynecastle Stadium, Edinburgh 22 July v Preston North End, Deepdale, Preston 26 July v Bradford City, Northern Commercials Stadium, Bradford 29 July v FSV Mainz 05, Opel Arena, Mainz 2 August v Wolfsburg, AOK Stadion, Wolfsburg 6 August v Hellas Verona, St James’ Park, Newcastle upon Tyne
Southampton 22 July v Brentford, Griffin Park, Brentford
Stoke City 10 July v Neuchatel Xamax, Tissot Arena, Biel/Bienne, Switzerland (Uhrencup) 12 July v Young Boys Bern, Tissot Arena, Biel/Bienne, Switzerland (Uhrencup) 15 July v AS Monaco, Neutral venue, Martigny, Switzerland 25 July v Sheffield United, Bramall Lane, Sheffield 29 July v Bolton Wanderers, Macron Stadium, Bolton 30 July v Crewe Alexandra, Alexandra Stadium, Crewe 5 August v RB Leipzig, Red Bull Arena, Leipzig
Swansea City 12 July v Barnet, The Hive Stadium, Harrow 15 July v Philadelphia Union, Philadelphia, US 19 July v Richmond Kickers, Richmond, US 22 July v North Carolina, Sahlen’s Stadium, US 29 July v Birmingham City, St Andrew’s, Birmingham 5 August v Sampdoria, Liberty Stadium
Tottenham Hotspur 26 May Kitchee SC 1-4 Spurs, Hong Kong Stadium, Hong Kong 22 July v Paris Saint-Germain, Camping World Stadium, Orlando (International Champions Cup) 25 July v Roma, Red Bull Arena, Harrison, New Jersey (International Champions Cup) 29 July v Manchester City, Nissan Stadium, Nashville, Tennessee (International Champions Cup)
Watford 8 July v Woking, Laithwaite Community Stadium, Woking 15 July v AFC Wimbledon, Cherry Red Records Stadium, Kingston Upon Thames 18 July v Viktoria Plzen, TBC, Austria 22 July v SD Eibar, TBC, Austria 29 July v Aston Villa, Villa Park, Birmingham 5 August v TBC, Vicarage Road, Watford
West Bromwich Albion 12 July v SK Slavia Prague, Kumberg Stadium, Kumberg 19 July v Leicester City, Hong Kong Stadium, Hong Kong (PL Asia Trophy) 22 July v Crystal Palace/Liverpool, Hong Kong Stadium, Hong Kong (PL Asia Trophy) 26 July v Walsall, Banks’s Stadium, Walsall 26 July v Burton Albion, Pirelli Stadium, Burton upon Trent 29 July v Bristol Rovers, Memorial Stadium, Bristol 29 July v Slough Town 1 August v Kidderminster Harriers, Aggborough Stadium, Kidderminster 1 August v Port Vale, Vale Park, Stoke-on-Trent 5 August v Deportivo La Coruna, Estadio Riazor, A Coruna (Teresa Herrera Trophy)
West Ham United 28 July v Werder Bremen, Osterwald Stadion, Schneverdingen (Betway Cup) 29 July v Werder Bremen, Heinz-Dettmer Stadion, Lohne (Betway Cup) 1 August v Altona 93, Adolf-Jager-Kampfbahn Stadium, Hamburg 4 August v Manchester City, Laugardalsvollur National Stadium, Reykjavik
Abuja – Former Gov. Jolly Nyame of Taraba, has told an FCT High Court that he did not benefit from the N450 million contract he approved for the purchase of office equipment and stationery while in office.
Jolly Nyame
Nyame made the refutal on Monday when he was led in evidence by his counsel, Mr Hassan Fagimite.
The ex-governor is facing trial on alleged misappropriation of state funds to the tune of N1.64 billion while in office.
The court was told that while serving as governor, Nyame gave approval in 2004 and 2005 that N450 million be expended on bulk purchase of assorted office equipment and stationery for distribution to ministries.
Nyame also refuted the evidence given by his Commissioner for Finance, Mr Abubakar Tutare that he gave directive on how to spend the first tranche of N250 million he approved.
Tutare had testified that Nyame gave instruction that out of the first tranche of N250 million, N180 million should be paid into the account of Salman Global Ventures Ltd., for the governor's benefit.
Tutare and other witnesses also testified that the former governor had personal dealings with the Director of Salman Global Ventures, an allegation which he also denied.
Nyame told the court that the company was selected to handle contracts based on the needs of the state and that the process of selection was handled by the ministries.
"I do not have personal contact with the contractors,'' he said.
Nyame told the court that he considered the evidence of his former Commissioner for Finance and other witnesses as false.
He also denied the evidence given by prosecution witness number six, one Mr Umar Negari.
Negari had testified that Nyame directed Salman Global Ventures to issue a receipt in the name of the company covering the entire N250 million, including the N180 million.
Nyame told the court that he did not give approval to the effect that N165 million should be given to Salman Global for his benefit.
He also denied the allegation that he ordered that N15 million be given to the Deputy Speaker of Taraba House of Assembly while N20 million should be used for the purchases.
He also refuted the allegation made by a witness that out of the first N250 million, he directed that N70 million should be shared among civil servants in the Ministry of Finance.
The judge, Justice Adebukola Banjoko, adjourned hearing on the matter until July 4.
Abuja – Pastor William Kumuyi, the General Superintendent, Deeper Life Bible Church, will hold a crusade in Abuja on July 9 to seek the face of God for Nigeria and the people.
Kumuyi
The Overseer, Deeper Life Bible Church, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Pastor Joshua Esho, said this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.
Esho said that the coming of Kumuyi was divinely arranged and programmed to be "at this time that the nation really needs God's intervention".
According to him, Kumuyi will be at the National Stadium, Abuja on Sunday July 9, to hold a crusade with the theme: 'A Night of Divine Intervention Crusade', which will start at 4 p.m.
"The programme will also be featuring salvation, healing, breakthrough and deliverance, specifically for people living in Abuja and Nigerians in general.
" God has designed this time to do His work of divine intervention in their lives no matter the challenges they have been experiencing spiritually, materially, marital, health-wise, financially, academically, security wise, among others.
"We want to tell Abuja people that God is interested in the Nigerian situation, her people, their situation and He has prepared to deposit in their lives and set them free no matter the years they have experienced that problems," he said.
He said that measures had been put in place to ensure safety of lives and property, adding that there were ambulances equipped with qualified medical personnel and equipment for any emergency.
"The Federal Road Safety Corps will be there to control both human and vehicular movements for easy flow of traffic.''
He said that the church had made also a solid arrangement for transportation of participants.
"We have provided buses in all our district churches close to you and also major bus stops to convey people to and from the crusade," he said.
He said that God through his anointed servant, Kumuyi would cause special, remarkable, memorable and unforgettable miracles to happen to participants and this country.
"It does not matter how long the people must have been experiencing one problem or the other which has plagued their lives, God will give them complete freedom," he said
Former PDP minister’s on Monday held a meeting in Abuja, the outcome of the meeting will be communicated to soon.
From the left, Former Minister for Information, Prof. Jerry gana; Former Minister for Education, Prof. Tunde Adeniran and the Former Minister for Special Duties, Alhaji Tanimu Turaki during the meeting of the Former PDP Ministers’ Forum at Asokoro, Abuja.From the left, Former Minister for Health, Prof. ABC Nwosu; Former Minister for Interior, Comrade Abba Moro; Former Minister for Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode and the Former Minister for Works, Chief Mike Onolemen during the meeting of the Former PDP Ministers’ Forum at Asokoro, Abuja.From the left, Former Minister for Health, Prof. ABC Nwosu; Former Minister for Interior, Comrade Abba Moro; Former Minister for Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode and the Former Minister for Works, Chief Mike Onolemen during the meeting of the Former PDP Ministers’ Forum at Asokoro, Abuja.From the left, Former Minister for Niger Delta Development, Elder Godsday Orubebe (l) flanked by Former Council members during the meeting of the Former PDP Ministers’ Forum at Asokoro, AbujaFormer Minister for Education, Prof. Tunde Adeniran and the Former Minister for FCT, Mallam Bala Mohammed during the meeting of the Former PDP Ministers’ Forum at Asokoro, Abuja.
Abuja – The Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, on Monday expressed grief over the death of elder statesman and one time Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the UN, Alhaji Yusuf Maitama Sule.
A statement by the Acting President's spokesman, Mr Laolu Akande, said Osinbajo received the news of the passing away of Maitama Sule – orator, elder-statesman, and distinguished diplomat with profound sorrow.
Osinbajo expressed his deep and heartfelt condolences to the deceased's family, friends, associates and the government of Kano State.Maitama Sule
He prayed that the Almighty God comforts all.
According to Osinbajo, Maitama Sule, a Federal Minister in the first republic and the Danmasinin Kano, is best remembered on the global scene as one of the country's foremost envoys.
He said the clarity of his voice and vision contributed significantly to the high esteem and respect Nigeria earned at the UN.
Osinbajo also described Maitama Sule as an illustrious son of Nigeria and his death a loss to the country.
The Acting President observed that in his lifetime, the deceased, a great Nigerian leader and committed nationalist, had positioned himself as an agent of unity.
"Even as he advanced gracefully in age, he was always prepared to reach out to other leaders of thought across the country in the noble quest for unity, tolerance and national cohesion.
"He did not waver in lending his voice to the promotion of moderation in national discourse, and his graceful conduct thereto would be sorely missed.
"Alhaji Sule never relented applying his wealth of experience to advance the cause of unity, peace and progress of Nigeria.
"His fatherly counsel to those in authority had always been bold, sincere and untainted,'' the Acting President stated.
While commending his patriotic fervour, and passionate zeal for public service, the Acting President recalls Maitama Sule's unparalleled dedication to duty as a formidable diplomat, politician, Minister and acclaimed orator.
He said the deceased's well-researched and excellently delivered speeches inspired and impressed several Nigerians, including him (Osinbajo).
He, therefore, urged the octogenarian's family, friends and associates to be consoled by the fact that his selfless commitment to the stability of Nigeria would not be forgotten and would always be honoured.
The Acting President, on behalf of President Muhammadu Buhari, the Government and the people of Nigeria, conveyed heartfelt condolences over the loss of "a great national asset''.
Osinbajo prayed Allah to bless his memory, grant his family and all Nigerians the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Abuja – The Nigerian Navy (NN) on Monday released the list of names of successful candidates for its Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) Course 24 Selection Exercise.Naval officers getting set for Nigerian Navy Day celebration
The Acting Director of Information, Naval Headquarters, Capt. Suleman Dahun, said this in a statement made available to journalists in Abuja.
Dahun said candidates who participated in the selection process from April 10 to April 28 , should visit the NN website, www.joinnigerian.com to check the list.
"Successful candidates are to report at Nigerian Naval College Onne, Port Harcourt, on Wednesday , July 5.
"Candidates who fail to report by 12 p.m. on Sunday July 9 will not be accepted for the training.
"The NN also wishes to use this opportunity to remind the general public, especially interested able bodied young men and women to take advantage of the ongoing recruitment exercise," he said.
Dahun also said that the candidates seeking enlistment should register online in the ongoing Batch 27 Recruitment Exercise for ratings at www.joinnigeriannavy.com.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ongoing registration for Batch 27 recruitment exercise for ratings commenced on July 1 and would close on July 31.
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