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Mobilise Nigerians To Enthrone Good Leadership In 2023, Wike Tells Anglicans ….As 20 Archbishops, 150 Bishops, Other Clergies Honour Four Govs
Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike has urged the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) to use their numerical strength to determine the enthronement of good political leadership in Nigeria.
This is as at least 600 clergies, amongst them 20 Archbishops, 150 Bishops, and hundreds of reverends converged in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) honoured four serving governors for their exceptional services to their respective states.
The governor said while the church cannot jettison the place of prayers, it should be combined with actual encouragement of the members to be involved in all political processes that include voting and being voted for.
Wike gave the charge at the formal opening of the February Meetings of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) Standing Committee of the Mothers’ Union Executive at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Rumuobiokani of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, last Wednesday.
Over 850 delegates attended the meeting.
The governor said it is scriptural that the people truly rejoices when a nation is ruled by good people.
Accordingly, he stated, that the church bears divine obligation for such good leadership over Nigeria to be realised, which is through active and effective engagement in the nation’s political process.
“There are churches that claim tens of millions of registered members with branches everywhere, yet these numbers are not available in votes during crucial national elections.
“If the church doesn’t like what is happening to Nigeria; the ravaging insecurity, the lack of meaningful development; the mass poverty; the unending economic pains on ordinary Nigerians; the recurring violent conflicts and recriminations; the violence on women and children; the discrimination and widespread social, economic and political injustices and the general lack of hope and direction;
“Then, it must start to mobilize its members and Nigerians in general to join and actively participate in the political process to bring about the genuine and sustainable change that the our country so urgently needs.”
Wike insisted that what will change Nigeria for the better is good governance which comes with good leadership actuated from and by the will of the people through credible elections.
The governor said good leaders beget good governance, which begets peace, progress and prosperity for society.
Wike pointed out that good leaders are problem-solvers not problem-compounders. He said only good leaders can resolve the country’s perennial economic, social, and security challenges.
“Good leaders respect the rule of law, places the common interest above self, are fair to all sections of the society and promotes social cohesion by giving everyone or section a true sense of belonging.
“Good leaders prioritize the security and wellbeing of the people through sound economic policies and refrain from juggling politics and development to the detriment of the nation.
“Good leaders would work with the legislature to strengthen the state institutions, promote human rights and ensure an independent judicial system.
“A good leader will readily sign the amended Electoral Bill into law to guarantee a fraud-proof and credible electoral system for the country so that citizens can freely and fairly elect their leaders and hold them accountable.”
Wike restated the commitment of his administration to serving Rivers people and all residents in the state with the best of ability in delivering the best that can be provided.
He said the purpose of his administration is to serve God through service to the people as an expression of gratitude of the love and protection enjoyed from God, including the sustained prayers from the church.
“Thankfully, we have consistently discharged our responsibilities with the fear of God and with a resolute conviction to be as fair as possible, to do what is right before God and man and to ensure that the benefit of progress is spread to all parts of the state.
“Although we may not have achieved all that we set out to do; neither have we been able to meet all the wishes and expectations of every citizen, which as you know, is rather impossible.
“But no one can deny the fact that we have blazed the trail with our transformation agenda and achieved expansive progress for our state, our people and our country.”
The governor said his transformational agenda, from the rule of law, judicial independence to human security and the provision of socio-economic infrastructure, including quality roads, bridges, flyovers, education, healthcare delivery and rural development has been expansive in content and extensive in delivery and impact.
Which is why, he stated, his administration is profoundly thankful to God Almighty not only for entrusting his team with the rare opportunity to work for the progress of Rivers State but also for the wonderful achievements secured.
The governor donated the sum of N300million to support the Anglican church of Nigeria.
Delivering his primate’s address, Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of all Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba noted the need for courageous, empathic and caring leaders to rise over Nigeria to steer its affairs.
Such demand, he said has become imperative because of the excruciating economic hardship caused by unfriendly economic policies, and endemic corruption that has destroyed all public institutions.
“The removal of subsidies at this time would portend untold hardship for millions of Nigerians, especially those in the middle and low-income brackets. It will surely drive up the cost of fuel, which will lead to an increase in transportation fares, increased inflation rates, reduced purchasing power and a surge in poverty.
“Subsidy removal in our view will throw more Nigerians below the poverty line and further reinforce our unenviable status of being the poverty capital or the world.”
Ndukuba also advised against further borrowing.
He urged the Federal Government to heed to the advise by the Monetary Policy Committee to seek alternative, more viable and efficient infrastructure-financing sources that will help ease the expenditure burden on the county.
The primate said Nigeria needs a new civilian and democratic constitution made by sovereign representation of the ethnic nationalities in order to address the fundamental issues that have hampered national growth, unity and prosperity.
“While we commend the National Assembly for their efforts toreview the present constitution, we are convinced that what we need is a totally civilian constitution made by a sovereign representation of the ethnic nationalities of thiscountry.
“This will address the fundament united and prosperous nation. We need new citizens made national constitution and not the amendment of a military-formulated constitution.”
In his welcome address, the Archbishop of Niger Delta Province, Most. Rev. Blessings Enyindah harped on the need for Christians to strike a balance between their earthly and heavenly obligations so that none suffers.
Enyindah noted that most Christians have focused so much on heaven and have lost their relevance to the earthly government, families, friends.
He said Christians must realise that they are also citizens of countries of the world and should assume their roles in the formulation and implementation of policies that shaped society.
The church used the occasion to confer awards on Governors of Delta State, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa; Samuel Ortom (Benue); Darius Dickson Ishaku (Taraba) and Prof. Babagana Zulum (Borno).
Also honoured is Senate minority leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe.
Earlier, at least 600 clergies, amongst them 20 Archbishops, 144 Bishops, and hundreds of reverends converged in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) honoured four serving governors for their exceptional services to their respective states.
They include Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum; Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom; Delta State Governor, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa; and Taraba State Governor, Darius Dickson.
Also honoured is Senate Minority Leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe.
The Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria Anglican Church, Dr. Henry Ndukuba, presented the award to Borno State’s Head of Service, Barrister Simon Malgwi, who represented Zulum at St Andrews’ Anglican Church at Rumuobiokani in Port Harcourt.
Malgwi is the first Christian in Borno’s history to be appointed Head of Service (by Zulum in November, 2019).
Zulum’s award (and those of three other recipients) was one of the main events at the Anglican Communion’s bi-annual meeting of its “Standing Committee” usually attended by Bishops, and delegates from the 165 dioceses in the Church of Nigeria, representing the clergy, laity and the women ministry of the church”.
The meeting began on February 20, 2022, but the official opening held, last Wednesday, while the meeting ended, yesterday.
Ndukuba said Zulum has distinguished himself in less than three years of becoming Borno’s governor.
“This award supersedes religion. We are tired of leaders that are not responsible and that is why we the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion deemed it fit to honour those who have excellently proven themselves worthy in serving their people: Our intentions are to bring to the fore the selfless service of leaders in such a trying time and Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State stands out”, Ndukuba declared amidst ovation in the church.
“Professor Babagana Zulum is a true leader, worthy of emulation and we are proud to have him among leaders in the country. He has been attacked severally while discharging his duties but he continued to show zeal and passion to bring hope to the state that’s suffered 12 year insurgency. We pray God to continue to guide, protect, bless and uplift Professor Babagana Zulum now and always”, the primate added.
Zulum, speaking through Head of Service, Malgwi, thanked the Anglican Communion for the award, which he said, came to him as a pleasant surprise.
”I have received several awards but this one is very special because it came from clergy and it came from a church to one that is not a Christian and your decision speaks volume of the objectivity and sincerity of purpose of the award. I very much cherish and value this award” Zulum said, as conveyed by the Head of Service.
Also speaking, another recipient of the award, Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State said he was elated to be recognised by clergies whose were dispassionate and apolitical in their assessment of public office holders.
Ortom said that the award would spur him to do more for the people of Benue State.
The Head of Service led Borno’s delegation which included the state’s Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation, Mr Nuhu Clark; Special Adviser on Community Relations, Mr Kester Ogualili; and Senior Special Assistant on Youths and Jobs Creation, Mr Christopher Akaba.
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Arson: Those Behind It’ll Account For Atrocities -Fubara …Swears In Bipi, Three Others As Commissioners
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has said that his administration will not fold its hands and watch sponsored political thugs run berserk, committing arson in the State.
The Governor, therefore, assured that, working with the Nigerian Police Force and the Directorate of State Services (DSS), measures will be taken to unravel those behind the recent burning of council Secretariats at Ikwerre, Emohua and Eleme Local Government areas, with a view to making them account for their atrocities.
Governor Fubara gave the assurance while swearing in four new commissioners into the Rivers State Executive Council at Government House in Port Harcourt yestersday.
Those sworn in are Hon. Israel Lebura Ngbuelu, PhD; Hon. Evans Bapakaye Bipi; Barrister Otamiri John Ngubo; and Hon. Barrister Benibo Anabraba.
Governor Fubara recalled mentioning when he sworn-in newly elected Local Government Councils’ Chairmen on 6th October, 2024, that there was intelligence on planned mayhem by misguided persons, who had threatened to prevent the elected officers from resuming duties.
True to it, Governor Fubara said, the sponsored political thugs hatched their plans, and burnt valued buildings at some council secretariats.
He said, “I said it before it happened. I knew because they were unhappy, they would go extra miles to create disaffection in the minds and hearts of the good people of Rivers State.
“We want to also let the people know that what has happened (arson) after the election, we are not going to allow it to go uninvestigated.
“A similar event had happened in this manner before, and after some weeks, some of our supporters were declared wanted in order to turn the story around.
“But this time around, I strongly believe, with the support and cooperation of the Nigerian Police and the Directorate of State Services (DSS), we will unravel those behind the assault and make sure that they account for their atrocities.”
Governor Fubara expressed appreciation for the show of patience and calmness by majority of Rivers people despite the fact that they are angry with the reckless acts of the misguided miscreants.
The Governor said he has continued to show leadership, provided the climate that has engendered productive endeavours, and will not mislead those he is leading.
“As your leader; the one steering the ship, I assure you I will not mislead anyone of you. I still stand on the path of peace. We have cases of arson in some local government areas.
“But, I appreciate your calmness. I have always maintained that we are going to be the greatest losers, if we meet them force-for-force. We need to go with peace.
“So, I will encourage everyone of you not to follow them with violence. We are carrying a basket of precious eggs in our hands. So, we need to follow them with carefulness and wisdom.”
Governor Fubara reiterated what he said the previous day on what should matter most for Rivers State, which is a firm support to ensure that the progress of Nigeria is sustained.
He said, if oil theft is not checked, the country’s economy will be badly impacted, and there will not be funds to address critical issues.
“We are in a situation where the fund that is being generated from oil production is not sufficient to tackle the challenges of Nigeria, and every hand has to be on deck to make sure that there is increase in production.
“Our focus here, not minding the distractions, will be how to provide support. You have to work with us to make sure that we curb this issue of oil theft and pipeline vandalisation.
“This is the only way that the allowances (revenue) will increase and more will also come to our State, and more progress will also be achieved in this State.”
Governor Fubara explained that his administration is doing a lot for the good people of the State, that are not being seen because of the political drama that takes their attention away.
He, however, said that his administration is working out modalities, and will soon choose a day, which could probably be before the end of October, 2024, to showcase a few projects and services that have positively impacted lives in the State.
Governor Fubara congratulated the newly sworn-in commissioners for making it into the Rivers State Executive Council.
He explained that more persons whose loyalty are for Rivers people and the administration needed to be admitted into the Rivers State Executive Council to help drive the policy of government because they will not resign their appointment.
Governor Fubara said: “We want to be sure, at this point, who we are adding into the Council, so that we will not wake up one morning and see resignation letter. So, we are taking our time.
“And usually, after a normal political period, there used to be what we call balancing. So, I can also say that the new Commissioners that are coming in are coming from their zones to also balance the political equation.”
Governor Fubara charged them to be dedicated, forthright, diligent and productive while rendering quality services to the State.
The Governor said he believed in their capacity to deliver because of their exposure to the workings of government, and expressed the hope that they will contribute positively to the success of the administration.
He said, “So, let me thank everyone of you. Let me also use this opportunity to thank the good people of Rivers State for their support, and to assure them that we will continue to defend, protect the interest of Rivers people.
“I want to thank everyone of you for your support, more especially before, during and after the elections. I appreciate your doggedness, your belief in our course to salvage this State, to protect the integrity of this State,” he added.
Head of Civil Service of the Federation (HoCSF), Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, has sought media support to fast-track the implementation of the ongoing reforms in the civil service sector.
Walson-Jack made the request during a cocktail organised by her office for media executives from different organisations in Abuja.
The event, according to her, aimed at interacting with the media men one-on-one, appreciate them and implore them to continue to strengthen the bond with the office.
“I want to start by thanking each and everyone of you for honouring this invitation. I want to say that we purposely designed this grail cocktail so that we can have one-on-one interactions.
“Let me also go ahead to thank you for all the supports you have given to the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF) in the years past I know that the Fourth Estate of the realm has always supported this office.
“I will also go ahead to thank you for your support, especially at my announcement as the HoCSF and that support has continued, up till date.
“We, therefore, thought it fit that we should organise this event just to interact with you to strengthen the bond that this office has with the media, “ she said.
The HoCSF recalled that her office had continued with programmes she met on ground upon assumption of office, especially the ongoing reforms on Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP- 2022 to 2025).
She, therefore, appealed to the media for continuous reportage on the initiative, so as to give it the necessary publicity for proper dissemination to the citizens.
“You will recall that the office has the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP- 2022 to 2025) and that is the plan that we are still driving.
“We want to request that you collaborate more with us, we are asking that the friendship, the partnership go beyond what it is now to ensure that the reforms which this office is driving get the full publicity it requires,” she said.
Walson-Jack used the medium to announce the preparation to re-introduce the civil service national anthem officially for the entire civil servants to recite at every national programme.
“The anthem has been re-introduced to drive the reforms and it’s expected that the anthem will be sung by all federal civil/public servants and indeed Nigerians.
“And it will be an anthem that will encourage every public servants to be efficient, productive, incorruptible and citizen-centred, “ she added.
Participants at the event congratulated Mrs Walson-Jack for her uplifting to the position of the HoCSF and pledged to continue in the relationship.
In a response, Mr Ephraims Sheyin, Editor-in-Chief, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), pledged the agency’s readiness to give the HoCSF the needed support.
According to him, supporting government policies has always been NAN’ priority as government’s owned media organisation.
“You can take it for granted that we are going to give the Office total support. It is part of our own mandates to support Federal Government policies, so we are going to do that fully for the head of service.
“As she said, she has her policies which are in tandem with the federal government policies, she is asking for the support in implementation of the Federal Government policies.
“She has very lofty ideas, she has lofty things that she believes that we should do. Our job is to make sure that whatever government wants to do, we have to support such policies, “ he said.
Speaking in the same vein, Mrs Halima Musa, Director News, NTA, assured her office’s partnership with the Head of service towards ensuring communicating the needed values on excellence, incorruptibility and new culture of efficiency to the public.
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LG Polls: Rogue Policemen Break RSIEC Gate, Strong Room To Steal Electoral Materials …Fubara Foils Attempt To Cart Away Materials
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara has foiled an attempt by the Nigerian Police, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), to take over the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) at 1am on Friday, 4th October, 2024.
The rogue policemen were said to have attempted to scale through the gates and strong room of the Commission to cart away sensitive Electoral materials meant for the conduct of Saturday’s local government election in the State.
The deployment was said to have been ordered by the Inspector-General of Police.
However, the evil plots of the rogue policemen and DC Ops were botched when vigilant security officials alerted principal officers of the Commission and relevant government authorities, who immediately informed the Governor of the development.
The Governor immediately led a team of government officials, lawmakers from the National Assembly and State House of Assembly, top political stakeholders, and other leaders to storm the facility.
Addressing newsmen in front of RSIEC Office on Aba Road in Port Harcourt, after an encounter with the rogue policemen, the State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara condemned the conduct of the policemen on illegal duty, saying that the IGP was taking his friendship with some Abuja-based politicians too far.
He restated the position that the attempt to surreptitiously withdraw policemen already deployed to protect the facility, and replace them with a detachment from a neighbouring State was unacceptable.
He reminded the IGP that local government election was the internal affairs of states, and advised him to allow the federation unit conduct its affairs without interference.
At present, the Chief of Staff, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, and State and National Assembly members, alongside other stakeholders, are manning the RSIEC office to ensure that the rogur policemen in two trucks and two Hilux vehicles do not return and that elections will go ahead as scheduled on Saturday.