Tuesday, 8 October 2013
NAFDAC impounds N50m unregistered products in Lagos
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has confiscated goods worth N50m from major supermarkets, open markets and suspected warehouses in Lagos State.
Among the markets where the goods were impounded are the popular Oke-Arin, Balogun, Idumota, Mushin and Oshodi markets. Trade Fair Complex; and some major supermarkets located in the Apapa, Victoria Island, Ikoyi and Ajah areas were also affected.
Apart from the markets, some suspected warehouses in Isolo, Badagry expressway and motor garages and loading parks were also visited during the three-day exercise.
A statement by the agency on Monday said, “During the exercise, products of various ranges worth over N50m were confiscated while the warehouses were sealed and three trailers suspected to be loaded with unregistered regulated products were equally impounded.
“The three-day exercise which took most of the shop owners by surprise coupled with the presence of stern looking security operatives was a huge success.”
Director, Enforcement Directorate of the Agency, Mr. Garba Macdonald, said the exercise was to ascertain the level of compliance of the products in circulation.
He said it became imperative to storm the locations because surveillance earlier carried out indicted the places visited.
He confirmed that the products confiscated would be subjected to further laboratory analysis before final decision could be taken.
“Field reports indicated that most of the products were smuggled into the country from the neighbouring countries and those arrested or invited will be of help to furnish us with useful information that will assist to forestall future occurrence,” he added.
Source: Punch*
NYSC bags UN award
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme has bagged a UN award for its active participation in a recent offline survey conducted by the international body.
Alhaji Abdulwahab Obomeile, the Director, Community Development Service and Special Projects Department of the corps, made the disclosure on Monday in Abuja at the award ceremony.
He said that the award; ``My World: A Global Survey For Citizens’’, was an initiative from the UN, which is an options survey carried out through creative Online and Offline methods.
``It allows people across the world to tell the UN in particular and the Secretary-General’s High Level Panel, the most important issues they would like the Post-2015 agenda to address after the expiration of MDGs agenda,’’ he said.
He added that the NYSC in Nigeria, using the Corps Volunteers of NYSC MDGs Advocacy Programme, was actively engaged in the offline survey, which took place across the country in March.
``We partnered with the UN Millennium Campaign Nigeria, OSSAP-MDGs and CISLAC, and engaged over 1,000 youth corps members as field volunteers to administer the questionnaires in the 774 local government areas in Nigeria,’’ he added.
He said the survey was structured to capture two persons per 100 households in each of the 774 local government areas.
``The total number of the votes came to 145,672 citizens, 67.2 per cent of which were rural dwellers, 45.5 per cent were youths and 46.5 were female.
``It is worthy of note that some of these areas face security challenges and cultural barriers where women are not allowed to express themselves, but the Field Volunteers worked around these situations,’’ he said.
Obomeile saluted the resilience and hard work of the corps members who remained committed and resolute in carrying out the exercise within five days.
Also speaking, Hilary Ogbonna, the National Coordinator, UN Millennium Campaign, Nigeria, said the MDGs had made a huge impact on the lives of many Nigerians.
``But there is still much more to be done to address extreme poverty, diseases and environmental crises among many others,’’ he said.
Responding, the NYSC Director-General, Brig.-Gen. Nnamdi Okore-Affia, said he was most excited to receive the award on behalf of the NYSC.
``I am dedicating this award to Mr President, the Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces, NYSC Staff and the entire corps members nationwide, who worked assiduously to merit this award,’’ he said.
Source: NAN*
h
Saturday, 5 October 2013
Nadal Returns To No. 1 By Reaching Beijing Final Beijing, China by ATP Staff | 05.10.2013
Rafael Nadal will become No. 1 in the Emirates ATP Rankings on Monday after reaching the China Open final.
Nadal will contest his 13th championship match of a remarkable season after World No. 5 Tomas Berdych retired at 2-4 in the first set in their Beijing semi-final on Saturday with a back injury.
"I barely can sit, I[can] barely can stand up [or] walk," said Berdych, who described the injury as new. The Czech No. 1 said he tweaked his back as he ran for a backhand slice.
Berdych voiced his respect for Nadal. "It's really incredibly well done in how short [a] time he [became] No. 1 again after [his] comeback... That's really an achievement."
Since returning from seven-month absence due to a left knee injury in February, Nadal has compiled a 65-3 match record on the season. He has won 10 titles from 12 finals, including the Roland Garros (d. Ferrer) and US Open (d. Djokovic) crowns plus five ATP World Tour Masters 1000 trophies.
The left-handed Nadal extended his FedEx ATP Head2Head over Berdych to 16-3. He has now won his last 15 clashes against Czech.
The 27-year-old Spaniard has had two stints at the summit of men’s professional tennis for a total of 102 weeks. Nadal first became No. 1 on 18 August 2008 for a period of 46 weeks. He regained top spot from Roger Federer on 7 June 2010 and added 56 weeks to his tally until relinquishing No. 1 to Novak Djokovic on 4 July 2011.
By reaching the final, Nadal is one win away from claiming his first China Open title since 2005.
He'll attempt to retain the year-end No. 1 ranking for the first time since 2010 and the third time overall (also ’08).
Nadal will contest his 13th championship match of a remarkable season after World No. 5 Tomas Berdych retired at 2-4 in the first set in their Beijing semi-final on Saturday with a back injury.
"I barely can sit, I[can] barely can stand up [or] walk," said Berdych, who described the injury as new. The Czech No. 1 said he tweaked his back as he ran for a backhand slice.
Berdych voiced his respect for Nadal. "It's really incredibly well done in how short [a] time he [became] No. 1 again after [his] comeback... That's really an achievement."
Since returning from seven-month absence due to a left knee injury in February, Nadal has compiled a 65-3 match record on the season. He has won 10 titles from 12 finals, including the Roland Garros (d. Ferrer) and US Open (d. Djokovic) crowns plus five ATP World Tour Masters 1000 trophies.
The left-handed Nadal extended his FedEx ATP Head2Head over Berdych to 16-3. He has now won his last 15 clashes against Czech.
The 27-year-old Spaniard has had two stints at the summit of men’s professional tennis for a total of 102 weeks. Nadal first became No. 1 on 18 August 2008 for a period of 46 weeks. He regained top spot from Roger Federer on 7 June 2010 and added 56 weeks to his tally until relinquishing No. 1 to Novak Djokovic on 4 July 2011.
By reaching the final, Nadal is one win away from claiming his first China Open title since 2005.
He'll attempt to retain the year-end No. 1 ranking for the first time since 2010 and the third time overall (also ’08).
Thursday, 3 October 2013
The Federal Government yesterday announced that it had resolved the disagreement with workers of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria.
The Federal Government yesterday announced that it had resolved the disagreement with workers of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria.
The workers had on Monday embarked on a nationwide protest following Federal Government’s decision to hand over share certificates to the core investors in the PHCN successor companies.
A statement issued by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power, Dr. Goodnews Igali, read ''The payment implementation committee had resolved all contending issues and promised that before the end of this week, at least over 38,000 PHCN workers would have been paid their terminal benefits.
He blamed the hiccups experienced in the course of the payment on the large number of people involved, adding that the government had enough fund to complete the process.
Igali commended the PHCN labour unions for their show of patriotism, saying that, 47,000 employees, 45, 366 persons had so far been captured, and that the remaining persons would be captured after the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation finalises its processes.
READ MORE: http://news.naij.com/48714.html
READ MORE: http://news.naij.com/48714.html
Tuesday, 1 October 2013
Address by His Excellency, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR On the Occasion of Nigeria's 53rd Independence Anniversary.Tuesday 1st October, 2013
Address by
His Excellency, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR
On the Occasion of Nigeria's 53rd Independence Anniversary.
Tuesday 1st October, 2013
FELLOW NIGERIANS,
1. Today marks 53 years of our Independence as a nation. First and foremost, I would like to say congratulations to us all. Through thick and thin, we have built this country together. Through triumphs and trials, we have developed a Nigerian identity in our own way.
2. In truth, Nigeria is still a work in progress and we are challenged everyday to keep building in spite of the various obstacles that we face. Our strength has been in our diversity. If we look back over the years, we can say confidently that there is every reason to celebrate.
3. Today's Independence anniversary is unique because it is the last before we mark our centenary. On January 1, 2014, Nigeria will be 100 years old as a country, following the amalgamation of the Protectorates of Southern and Northern Nigeria in 1914.
4. Beloved country men and women, traditionally, the Presidential address on this symbolic day has served two purposes. It has, quite rightly, been used to remind all Nigerians about our heritage. It has also allowed my predecessors and I to comment on our stewardship to the nation and make political capital out of a state occasion.
5. But this year, I will not. Because, today of all days, we should not be scoring political points. On the contrary, in this last year of the first century of our Union, we should be addressing our future as a Nation and a people!
6. I admit that these may not be the best of times for our nation. Our people are divided in many ways – ethnically, religiously, politically, and materially. I cannot hide from this reality. I cannot hide from my own responsibilities.
7. As we prepare to mark the centenary, therefore, today offers us an opportunity to reflect on our long journey to nationhood and the progress we have made so far. Whatever the challenges that we may face, we have every reason to be proud of our national accomplishments; we have every reason to remain proud and optimistic. Our collective national journey has witnessed great watersheds, thanks to our spirit of endurance, perseverance and sacrifice. Getting the rest of the job done with determination and courage is just a matter of time. We are Nigerians, a nation of talented people, endowed with resources, potentials, and Divine Grace.
8. In our journey to greatness as a nation, we have built an economy that is robust and erected enduring infrastructure and institutions of democracy. Our social system is now more inclusive, open and compassionate. We are waging a steady battle against poverty, unemployment, and corruption. Our sense of community, solidarity and shared expectation is strong and capable of withstanding the present social, economic and political challenges that still confront us.
9. In saying this, I am reminded of the comments I made a week ago to a cross-section of Nigerians in New York during the 68th United Nations General Assembly. I declare now as I declared then: we have a duty as Nigerians, whatever may be our differences or prejudices, to always put Nigeria first.
10. Our politics should be an art of patriotic labour and selfless service to the community, particularly by the political elite who are placed in positions of great trust and responsibility. Politics has its own high moral principles which abhor distracting and divisive rhetoric. As men and women in leadership, we must continually focus on service, duty, responsibility, and the next generation. Those who are elected to govern at all levels must focus on improving the lives of our people, not selfish ambition.
11. In the words of the American theologian and author, James Freeman Clarke, ‘a politician thinks of the next election; a statesman of the next generation’. Whether we are Muslims or Christians; rich or poor; from the North or the South; East or West; regardless of our political affiliations, this is the time for every one of us to be a statesman!
12. My clarion call therefore, on this special day, is that we should begin to align our political utterances and conduct solely to the nobler passions that unite our people. Politicians do not make a nation; ordinary folks do.
13. Our nation is made great by the big and small efforts of regular citizens. These are the teachers and men and women in academics who inculcate the knowledge and wisdom that transform into tomorrow’s wealth; the traders and market women who tend to our everyday needs; the farmers whose labour feeds the nation; the artisans whose work ensures that our homesteads are well maintained; the doctors, pharmacists, nurses, accountants, bankers, engineers, and other professionals who add value to our lives; the sportsmen and women and those in the creative industry who bring honour and fame to our nation;
14. And the men and women of our armed forces and security services who toil day and night so that you and I may live in a safe and secure nation.
15. It is the individual and collective heroism of these regular folks that has placed our nation on the path of greatness. Politics and politicians sometimes distract the people and create unnecessary tension.
16. But our independence celebration is about the same people, the people of Nigeria: their industry, sense of mission and purpose, and their patience and perseverance as we navigate historical turns in our march towards prosperity and self-sufficiency. Today, I salute the people of Nigeria.
17. My Compatriots, history has proven that nations take time to evolve. We should rejoice in our democracy because it enables us to be united by our differences, not destroyed by them. And, there is no more crucial time for us to be united than now.
18. The threats we face may be real and immediate. But we are not alone in this regard. It is a difficult season for much of the world: industrialized or developing; rich or poor. What matters are the lessons we learn, the wisdom we demonstrate, and the victory we snatch from the jaws of likely defeat.
19. And I tell you, more than anything else, there are lessons to learn, and every cause to be thankful. If I must cite one example, take Syria. As we all pray and work for a return to normalcy in Syria, it would be helpful for us to reflect on the fact that Syria was once a peaceful, thriving, multi-cultural nation which played host to a mosaic of religions and ethnicities.
20. But that once idyllic nation has today become a theatre of human misery of unimaginable proportions as a result of the activities of extremist forces.
21. Fellow Nigerians, the spectre of extremism haunts every democracy in every corner of the globe. While we celebrate our independence and good fortune, our hearts must grieve for those who have lost loved ones in numerous terrorist activities around the world.
22. Back home, I admit being overtaken by deep feelings of grief, whenever news reached me of the appalling atrocities in some of our States, especially the North Eastern part of our country. Just two days ago, terrorist elements attacked the College of Agriculture in Gujba, Yobe State killing a number of innocent students of the institution and other residents in cold blood, most of them in their sleep. This act of barbarism is a demonstration of the extent to which evil forces will go to destabilize our nation. But I assure you, they will not succeed.
23. My heart goes out to the families of all those who have fallen victim of these dastardly acts. Our Administration will not rest until every Nigerian is free from the oppression of terrorism. I reassure you that no cost will be spared, no idea will be ignored, and no resource will be left untapped in the quest to enable our people live without fear.
24. On this day, I implore every Nigerian – wherever you are, whatever language you speak, whatever your religious persuasion, whichever Political Party you support -: let us join together to fight this evil of extremism.
25. On behalf of us all, I commend our Armed Forces and security agencies for their dedication and bravery in the face of grave danger, and in the name of our collective liberty.
26. Fellow Nigerians, this is a time to pull together behind the national cause: the cause of our freedom, and our future. We must rekindle the spirit of Nigeria, to ensure that every democrat and every lover of peace in this great nation continues to live in a free, peaceful, and secure Nigeria.
27. On my part, I re-dedicate myself completely to the service of this great country. I was elected President to continue the process of building a prosperous nation where hopes, dreams and aspirations would be fulfilled. Nigerians, home and abroad, want a country they can be proud to call their own. I am pleased to affirm that, no matter the challenges we face, we are on the right path to greatness. Our Transformation Agenda, which is part of the overall vision of making Nigeria a land of greatness, has been delivering positive and encouraging results.
28. On May 29th this year, I presented to the nation a mid-term report of my Administration’s Transformation Agenda. This was conceived as an integrated policy aimed at reconstructing not only institutional governance for effective and efficient service delivery, but also a re-orientation of national norms and values. The document captured the essence of our agenda in relation to core objectives and achievements.
29. I have been consistently mindful of the weight of public expectation to find solutions to the challenges that confront us because the mandate we have is a free and sacred one. In all that I have done, I have been guided by this sacred obligation, to work hard for the good of Nigeria and to make life better for Nigerians. I want to assure everyone that Nigeria, under my leadership, will not fail.
30. Exactly 53 years ago today, Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa urged us to ‘move with quiet dignity to our place on the world stage’. I am sure that there have been times when every one of us must have questioned how closely we have followed that injunction.
31. But again, I can reassure you that Nigeria’s place on the world stage today is strong and safe, and it is certainly a place of dignity and respect. We must continue to build on this by remaining a nation and a people committed to ideals, the noblest humanitarian values, and the rule of law.
32. Our Constitution is anchored ultimately on the idea of freedom and fundamental rights: freedom of expression; freedom from discrimination; freedom to vote and be voted for, and the right to human dignity. These are the core values of a true democracy. These are the values of which we must never lose sight.
33. In my address to the UN General Assembly last week, I emphasized the crucial role of democratization in improving the fortunes not just of this country, but of our entire continent. Democratic values encourage diversity. They encourage discourse. They encourage disagreement. This is the joy of democracy.
34. It enables us to have an opinion. And ultimately, the ballot box gives us all the opportunity to instigate change. When democracy works, it does not destroy a nation. It unites and defines it.
35. Fellow Nigerians, our Administration has taken cognizance of suggestions over the years by well-meaning Nigerians on the need for a National Dialogue on the future of our beloved country. I am an advocate of dialogue. When there are issues that stoke tension and bring about friction, it makes perfect sense for the interested parties to come together to discuss.
36. In demonstration of my avowed belief in the positive power of dialogue in charting the way forward, I have decided to set up an Advisory Committee whose mandate is to establish the modalities for a National Dialogue or Conference. The Committee will also design a framework and come up with recommendations as to the form, structure and mechanism of the process.
37. The Committee will be chaired by Dr. Femi Okurounmu while Dr. Akilu Indabawa will serve as the Secretary. The full membership of the Committee will be announced shortly.
38. I expect the Report to be ready in one month, following which the nation will be briefed on the nomenclature, structure and modalities of the Dialogue.
39. Fellow Nigerians, the past 53 years have seen Nigeria evolve on an epic scale. Our progress since independence has not always been smooth. This is, after all, our Fourth Republic; but despite all its flaws, it has lasted longer than all the previous three put together. That is progress and it proves that, our differences – real and imagined - notwithstanding, we are, in every sense, a united nation.
40. This is no time for the harmful clutches of parochial sentiments and the politics of bitterness, impunity, arrogance and unhelpful indiscipline. We must stand as one, with absolute commitment and resolve to resist any force that threatens us and the sanctity of our union.
41. I want to thank all our country men and women who have stood by this Administration in the midst of mounting challenges and enormous expectations.
42. I recognize that it is not easy to keep believing in the possibilities of our greatness when our faith is constantly challenged. But let me assure you that, if we do not despair, we shall reap the reward of our labour in due season.
43. It is my prayer that, another 53 years from now, our children and grand-children will look back on our effort and be thankful that we kept the faith.
44. May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
45. I wish you all a very happy 53rd Independence Celebration.
46. I thank you.
His Excellency, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR
On the Occasion of Nigeria's 53rd Independence Anniversary.
Tuesday 1st October, 2013
FELLOW NIGERIANS,
1. Today marks 53 years of our Independence as a nation. First and foremost, I would like to say congratulations to us all. Through thick and thin, we have built this country together. Through triumphs and trials, we have developed a Nigerian identity in our own way.
2. In truth, Nigeria is still a work in progress and we are challenged everyday to keep building in spite of the various obstacles that we face. Our strength has been in our diversity. If we look back over the years, we can say confidently that there is every reason to celebrate.
3. Today's Independence anniversary is unique because it is the last before we mark our centenary. On January 1, 2014, Nigeria will be 100 years old as a country, following the amalgamation of the Protectorates of Southern and Northern Nigeria in 1914.
4. Beloved country men and women, traditionally, the Presidential address on this symbolic day has served two purposes. It has, quite rightly, been used to remind all Nigerians about our heritage. It has also allowed my predecessors and I to comment on our stewardship to the nation and make political capital out of a state occasion.
5. But this year, I will not. Because, today of all days, we should not be scoring political points. On the contrary, in this last year of the first century of our Union, we should be addressing our future as a Nation and a people!
6. I admit that these may not be the best of times for our nation. Our people are divided in many ways – ethnically, religiously, politically, and materially. I cannot hide from this reality. I cannot hide from my own responsibilities.
7. As we prepare to mark the centenary, therefore, today offers us an opportunity to reflect on our long journey to nationhood and the progress we have made so far. Whatever the challenges that we may face, we have every reason to be proud of our national accomplishments; we have every reason to remain proud and optimistic. Our collective national journey has witnessed great watersheds, thanks to our spirit of endurance, perseverance and sacrifice. Getting the rest of the job done with determination and courage is just a matter of time. We are Nigerians, a nation of talented people, endowed with resources, potentials, and Divine Grace.
8. In our journey to greatness as a nation, we have built an economy that is robust and erected enduring infrastructure and institutions of democracy. Our social system is now more inclusive, open and compassionate. We are waging a steady battle against poverty, unemployment, and corruption. Our sense of community, solidarity and shared expectation is strong and capable of withstanding the present social, economic and political challenges that still confront us.
9. In saying this, I am reminded of the comments I made a week ago to a cross-section of Nigerians in New York during the 68th United Nations General Assembly. I declare now as I declared then: we have a duty as Nigerians, whatever may be our differences or prejudices, to always put Nigeria first.
10. Our politics should be an art of patriotic labour and selfless service to the community, particularly by the political elite who are placed in positions of great trust and responsibility. Politics has its own high moral principles which abhor distracting and divisive rhetoric. As men and women in leadership, we must continually focus on service, duty, responsibility, and the next generation. Those who are elected to govern at all levels must focus on improving the lives of our people, not selfish ambition.
11. In the words of the American theologian and author, James Freeman Clarke, ‘a politician thinks of the next election; a statesman of the next generation’. Whether we are Muslims or Christians; rich or poor; from the North or the South; East or West; regardless of our political affiliations, this is the time for every one of us to be a statesman!
12. My clarion call therefore, on this special day, is that we should begin to align our political utterances and conduct solely to the nobler passions that unite our people. Politicians do not make a nation; ordinary folks do.
13. Our nation is made great by the big and small efforts of regular citizens. These are the teachers and men and women in academics who inculcate the knowledge and wisdom that transform into tomorrow’s wealth; the traders and market women who tend to our everyday needs; the farmers whose labour feeds the nation; the artisans whose work ensures that our homesteads are well maintained; the doctors, pharmacists, nurses, accountants, bankers, engineers, and other professionals who add value to our lives; the sportsmen and women and those in the creative industry who bring honour and fame to our nation;
14. And the men and women of our armed forces and security services who toil day and night so that you and I may live in a safe and secure nation.
15. It is the individual and collective heroism of these regular folks that has placed our nation on the path of greatness. Politics and politicians sometimes distract the people and create unnecessary tension.
16. But our independence celebration is about the same people, the people of Nigeria: their industry, sense of mission and purpose, and their patience and perseverance as we navigate historical turns in our march towards prosperity and self-sufficiency. Today, I salute the people of Nigeria.
17. My Compatriots, history has proven that nations take time to evolve. We should rejoice in our democracy because it enables us to be united by our differences, not destroyed by them. And, there is no more crucial time for us to be united than now.
18. The threats we face may be real and immediate. But we are not alone in this regard. It is a difficult season for much of the world: industrialized or developing; rich or poor. What matters are the lessons we learn, the wisdom we demonstrate, and the victory we snatch from the jaws of likely defeat.
19. And I tell you, more than anything else, there are lessons to learn, and every cause to be thankful. If I must cite one example, take Syria. As we all pray and work for a return to normalcy in Syria, it would be helpful for us to reflect on the fact that Syria was once a peaceful, thriving, multi-cultural nation which played host to a mosaic of religions and ethnicities.
20. But that once idyllic nation has today become a theatre of human misery of unimaginable proportions as a result of the activities of extremist forces.
21. Fellow Nigerians, the spectre of extremism haunts every democracy in every corner of the globe. While we celebrate our independence and good fortune, our hearts must grieve for those who have lost loved ones in numerous terrorist activities around the world.
22. Back home, I admit being overtaken by deep feelings of grief, whenever news reached me of the appalling atrocities in some of our States, especially the North Eastern part of our country. Just two days ago, terrorist elements attacked the College of Agriculture in Gujba, Yobe State killing a number of innocent students of the institution and other residents in cold blood, most of them in their sleep. This act of barbarism is a demonstration of the extent to which evil forces will go to destabilize our nation. But I assure you, they will not succeed.
23. My heart goes out to the families of all those who have fallen victim of these dastardly acts. Our Administration will not rest until every Nigerian is free from the oppression of terrorism. I reassure you that no cost will be spared, no idea will be ignored, and no resource will be left untapped in the quest to enable our people live without fear.
24. On this day, I implore every Nigerian – wherever you are, whatever language you speak, whatever your religious persuasion, whichever Political Party you support -: let us join together to fight this evil of extremism.
25. On behalf of us all, I commend our Armed Forces and security agencies for their dedication and bravery in the face of grave danger, and in the name of our collective liberty.
26. Fellow Nigerians, this is a time to pull together behind the national cause: the cause of our freedom, and our future. We must rekindle the spirit of Nigeria, to ensure that every democrat and every lover of peace in this great nation continues to live in a free, peaceful, and secure Nigeria.
27. On my part, I re-dedicate myself completely to the service of this great country. I was elected President to continue the process of building a prosperous nation where hopes, dreams and aspirations would be fulfilled. Nigerians, home and abroad, want a country they can be proud to call their own. I am pleased to affirm that, no matter the challenges we face, we are on the right path to greatness. Our Transformation Agenda, which is part of the overall vision of making Nigeria a land of greatness, has been delivering positive and encouraging results.
28. On May 29th this year, I presented to the nation a mid-term report of my Administration’s Transformation Agenda. This was conceived as an integrated policy aimed at reconstructing not only institutional governance for effective and efficient service delivery, but also a re-orientation of national norms and values. The document captured the essence of our agenda in relation to core objectives and achievements.
29. I have been consistently mindful of the weight of public expectation to find solutions to the challenges that confront us because the mandate we have is a free and sacred one. In all that I have done, I have been guided by this sacred obligation, to work hard for the good of Nigeria and to make life better for Nigerians. I want to assure everyone that Nigeria, under my leadership, will not fail.
30. Exactly 53 years ago today, Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa urged us to ‘move with quiet dignity to our place on the world stage’. I am sure that there have been times when every one of us must have questioned how closely we have followed that injunction.
31. But again, I can reassure you that Nigeria’s place on the world stage today is strong and safe, and it is certainly a place of dignity and respect. We must continue to build on this by remaining a nation and a people committed to ideals, the noblest humanitarian values, and the rule of law.
32. Our Constitution is anchored ultimately on the idea of freedom and fundamental rights: freedom of expression; freedom from discrimination; freedom to vote and be voted for, and the right to human dignity. These are the core values of a true democracy. These are the values of which we must never lose sight.
33. In my address to the UN General Assembly last week, I emphasized the crucial role of democratization in improving the fortunes not just of this country, but of our entire continent. Democratic values encourage diversity. They encourage discourse. They encourage disagreement. This is the joy of democracy.
34. It enables us to have an opinion. And ultimately, the ballot box gives us all the opportunity to instigate change. When democracy works, it does not destroy a nation. It unites and defines it.
35. Fellow Nigerians, our Administration has taken cognizance of suggestions over the years by well-meaning Nigerians on the need for a National Dialogue on the future of our beloved country. I am an advocate of dialogue. When there are issues that stoke tension and bring about friction, it makes perfect sense for the interested parties to come together to discuss.
36. In demonstration of my avowed belief in the positive power of dialogue in charting the way forward, I have decided to set up an Advisory Committee whose mandate is to establish the modalities for a National Dialogue or Conference. The Committee will also design a framework and come up with recommendations as to the form, structure and mechanism of the process.
37. The Committee will be chaired by Dr. Femi Okurounmu while Dr. Akilu Indabawa will serve as the Secretary. The full membership of the Committee will be announced shortly.
38. I expect the Report to be ready in one month, following which the nation will be briefed on the nomenclature, structure and modalities of the Dialogue.
39. Fellow Nigerians, the past 53 years have seen Nigeria evolve on an epic scale. Our progress since independence has not always been smooth. This is, after all, our Fourth Republic; but despite all its flaws, it has lasted longer than all the previous three put together. That is progress and it proves that, our differences – real and imagined - notwithstanding, we are, in every sense, a united nation.
40. This is no time for the harmful clutches of parochial sentiments and the politics of bitterness, impunity, arrogance and unhelpful indiscipline. We must stand as one, with absolute commitment and resolve to resist any force that threatens us and the sanctity of our union.
41. I want to thank all our country men and women who have stood by this Administration in the midst of mounting challenges and enormous expectations.
42. I recognize that it is not easy to keep believing in the possibilities of our greatness when our faith is constantly challenged. But let me assure you that, if we do not despair, we shall reap the reward of our labour in due season.
43. It is my prayer that, another 53 years from now, our children and grand-children will look back on our effort and be thankful that we kept the faith.
44. May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
45. I wish you all a very happy 53rd Independence Celebration.
46. I thank you.
Monday, 30 September 2013
FG hands over licences to new owners of power plants
The Federal Government Monday in Abuja handed over share certificates and licences to new core owners of 15 of the 18 PHCN successor companies.
The ceremony, held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, was presided over by President Goodluck Jonathan with the Vice-President and Chairman of the National Council on Privatisation, Namadi Sambo, in attendance.
Jonathan assured of better days for electricity users in the country with improved economy and employment generations.
``To the Nigerian people who have demonstrated such great patience and confidence, putting up often with darkness, noisy power-generating sets, the related pollution and daily disruptions in their lives, I say better days are coming.
``We do not expect the sector to be revitalised overnight, but we can all look forward to a better time very soon as we have seen in the telecommunication and banking sectors.
``I am confident that the power sector will promise no less, knowing the caliber of those who are taking over.
``Today, we embark on a journey, a journey that will usher us to a destination of enduring gain and fulfillment,’’ he said.
Jonathan said the ceremony was a milestone in the nation’s journey from a public-owned and -operated electricity sector to an industry driven by private sector.
He commended the efforts of all stakeholders in the privatisation process for the transparent, fair and well-organised way they handled the process.
He urged the affected PHCN workers not to nurse a feeling of displacement, but to dwell on the tremendous possibilities that the revitalisation of the sector hold for the future.
Speaking in the same vein, Sambo said the event marked another major landmark in the transformation agenda of Jonathan’s administration.
He noted that at the inception of the programme, pessimists believed that the feat could not be accomplished.
The vice-president gave the assurance that the electricity market would be regulated in a manner that would promote growth and competitiveness.
``Electricity consumers are assured that their interests will be protected from over-pricing and poor service.
``It is important to stress that the role of regulation in a private sector-led electricity power sector cannot be overemphasised,’’ he said.
Sambo commended international development partners such as USAID, DFID, the World Bank Group and AfDB for keeping faith with the process.
He assured the investors that the Federal Government would protect their investments and create an enabling environment for a private sector-driven electricity market to flourish.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the privatised generating companies are Geregu Power Plc, Ughelli Power Plc, Egbin Power Plc, Kainji Hydro Electric Plc and and Shiroro Hydro Electric Power Plc.
The 10 privatised distribution companies (Disco) are located in Abuja, Benin, Eko, Ibadan, Ikeja, Jos, Kano, Port-Harcourt, Yola and Enugu.
The three PHCN successor companies that have yet to be handed over because of outstanding issues are located in Afam, Kaduna, and Sapele.
Source: NAN*
Sunday, 29 September 2013
MONDAY BIBLE STUDY (Special Study 30/09/2013) - THE SINFULNESS OF ACTS AND THOUGHTS OF IMPURITY Matthew 5:27-30
Special
Study 30/09/2013
THE SINFULNESS OF ACTS AND THOUGHTS OF IMPURITY
Matthew 5:27-30
Jesus Christ is the Light of the world as well as the
Light of the Word. Without His insight and interpretation, most people will
think that they are free from the condemnation of sin. Hearing the word, “Thou
shalt not kill”, the majority of people in the world will claim to have
kept this God’s Word. Hearing the true explanation, “Whosoever is angry
with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment,” every
mouth is stopped and all the world become guilty before God (Romans 3:19).
Christ’s true interpretation makes everyone see the need for forgiveness and
salvation.
Our Lord now explains and applies the next commandment,
“Thou shalt not commit adultery.” Limited understanding,
again, will lead most people to conclude that they are morally upright and
righteous. That superficial righteousness is lost as we listen to Christ’s
revelation on the commandment. “Whosoever looketh on a
woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.”
Christ effectively takes the veil of deception away to make everyone in
the world see the need for salvation in Him. Christ makes the world see the
need for divine mercy and He makes the church see the need for heart-cleansing.
1. COMMAND
AGAINST AN IMMORAL DEED
Matthew 5:27; Exodus 20:14; Deuteronomy 22:22-24; Proverbs
6:32-35; Romans 1:29-32; 13:9,10;1 Corinthians 6:9,10; Galatians 5:19-21;
Revelation 2:19-23; Luke 16:18; Romans 7:2,3; Hebrews 13:4.
“Ye have heard ...”
We have heard from the voice of conscience, from the voice of society,
from the voice of self-interest, from the voice of judgement and from the voice
of priests and preachers. “Ye have heard that it was said
by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery.” This moral
law had been in effect before the dispensation of the law (Genesis 20:1-7;
38:24) and it is still in effect today after the dispensation of the law; in
this dispensation of grace (Matthew 19:16-18; Romans 13:9,10). Christ has not
come to excuse and conceal the sin of mankind; No! He came to expose and
cleanse the sin of the world. He has not come to condemn and leave man under
condemnation; No! He has come to reveal the guilt and condemnation of all men
in order to make men seek God’s forgiveness, mercy and salvation through
Christ. His light searches us that His love may save us.
2. CONDEMNATION OF
AN IMPURE DESIRE
Matthew 5:28; Exodus 20:14,17; Mark 7:20-23; Romans 7:7; 2
Samuel 13:1-4; Colossians 3:5,6; James 1:14,15;1 John 2:16; Genesis 6:5;
Proverbs 15:26; 24:9; Isaiah 55:7.
The Pharisees and scribes had reduced the commandment which
prohibits adultery to the mere physical act of adultery. They imagined that as
long as they were not actually guilty of the act, they were
perfectly innocent and free from guilt or condemnation. The great
mistake of the Pharisees was that they never read the Ten commandments
properly. If they had truly considered and thoroughly studied them, they would
have seen the error of isolating each of the commandments. While the seventh
commandment says, “Thou shalt not commit adultery”, the
tenth commandment says, “Thou shalt not covet thy
neighbour’s wife.” This law forbids lust in the heart or improper
desire of “inordinate affection” for any woman in the
heart. Here again, we have Christ faithfully showing us the insufficiency of
external righteousness. His inspired interpretation and faithful revelation of
what is in man’s heart helps us to see our need of Christ as Saviour and
Sanctifier. “Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto
Christ, that we might be justified by faith” (Galatians 3:24).
3. CONSIDERATION
OF AN ILLUSTRATIVE DELIVERANCE
Matthew 5:29,30; Psalm 119:37; Job 31:1; Proverbs 5:8-13;
Proverbs 6:25-29; 7:25-27; Romans 6:13; 8:13; Galatians 5:24; 2 Corinthians
10:4,5; 1 Corinthians 9:27; Mark 9:43-48.
Christ is not only the Teacher come from God, He is also
the great Physician (Doctor) sent from God. He is the Saviour with the
divine Word. He is also the Surgeon with divine Wisdom. For a man with a
cancerous eye or hand, there are times when ‘plucking out the eye’ or ‘cutting
off the hand’ becomes necessary to save the whole body. It is the last resort
when all other treatments fail.
“And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and
cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should
perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.” If a man or a woman as dear and precious to you as your
right eye, be an occasion of offending God; a means of exciting unholy desires
in your heart, delay not to separate from him or her. “And if thy right
hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for
thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should
be cast into hell.” If anyone who is as necessary, useful and
profitable to you as your right hand be a constant means of impure desires or
immoral deeds, cut her or him off and let there be a total and final
separation.
* *
* * *
* *
Congregational
Songs:
THE THING MY GOD DOTH HATE
1. The thing my God doth hate
That I no more may do,
Thy creature, Lord, again create,
And all my soul renew.
2. My
soul shall then, like Thine,
Abhor the thing unclean,
And,
sanctified by love divine,
For ever cease from sin.
3. That blessed law of Thine,
Jesus, to me impart;
The Spirit’s law of life divine,
O write it in my heart!
4. Implant it deep within,
Whence it may ne’er remove,
The law of liberty from sin,
The perfect law of love.
5. Thy nature be my law,
Thy spotless sanctity,
And
sweetly every moment draw
My happy soul to Thee.
6. Soul of
my life remain!
Who didst for all fulfil,
In me, O Lord, fulfil again
Thy heavenly Father’s will!
O FOR A HEART TO PRAISE MY GOD
1. O for a heart to praise my God,
A heart from sin set free,
A heart that always feels Thy blood
So freely spilt for me.
2. A
heart resigned, submissive, meek,
My great Redeemer’s throne,
Where only Christ is heard to speak,
Where Jesus reigns alone.
3. A humble, lowly, contrite heart,
Believing, true, and clean;
Which neither life nor death can part
From Him that dwells within.
4. A heart in every thought renewed,
And full of love divine;
Perfect, and right, and pure, and good,
A copy, Lord, of Thine.
5. Thy nature, gracious Lord, impart;
Come quickly from above,
Write Thy new name upon my heart,
Thy new, best name of love.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)