COVER
Ohinoyi: Encomia as Tinubu, Others Send Condolences
By David Torough with Agency reports
President Bola Tinubu joined numerous sympathisers on Sunday to send condolences to the government and people of Kogi State on the passing of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, His Majesty, Dr. Ado Ibrahim.
Remains of Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, were laid to rest In Okene, his hometown Sunday according to the Islamic rites around 8.
40PM.Secretary of Ebiraland Traditional Council, Alhaji Salihu Sule, explained that the burial could not hold earlier because of unforeseen challenges as the corpse left Abuja late and only arrived in Okene around 6.
45PM.President Tinubu in a statement issued on Sunday by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President (Media and Publicity) described the death of the Ohinoyi as a painful loss, as he noted that the late monarch was peace-loving, affable and cerebral.
Tinubu stated, “The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland was in a class of his own. He was highly respected and admired for his deep insights, wisdom, and sophistication. He had a masterful way of handling issues. He was very knowledgeable and wise.
“May Almighty Allah grant His Majesty Aljannah Firdau.”
He urged the people of Kogi State to take solace in the legacy of peace and fellowship left behind by the late monarch.
Secretary of Ebiraland Traditional Council, Alhaji Salihu Sule, explained that the burial could not hold earlier because of unforeseen challenges as the corpse left Abuja late and only arrived in Okene around 6.45 p.m.
“On arrival, there was a family meeting that was held before the final internment according to Islamic rites,’’ Sule said.
Sheik Salihu Ebere, the Chief Imam of Ebiraland, who led the burial rites and prayers for the repose of the soul of the late Ohinoyi, prayed to God to forgive the royal father his sins.
The cleric said since death is inevitable, all humans must be conscious of the fact and live a loving, peaceful and God-fearing life.
In his remarks, Dr Godwin Oyibo, National President, Ebira Development Association, described the death of the paramount ruler as shocking and very painful.
“With painful heart we have just laid to rest the remains of our leader and father, who died in the early hours of Sunday in a hospital in Abuja.
“Committing his corpse to mother earth is very painful and unbelievable.
“I have never been this close to someone who suddenly is no more. It has never happened to me till this time. He is the kind person one would not want to part with.
“I have worked very closely with him for three years and he was a very wonderful leader. He has shown me that leadership is not about occupying the position, but about making impact.
“It is unfortunate that we are greatly going to miss him,’’ Oyibo said.
Present at the funeral were sons and daughters of Ebiraland, the Kogi governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, the Attah of Igala, His Royal Highness, Matthew Opaluwa and other royal fathers in Kogi.
The deceased Ohinoyi of Ebiraland was born on Feb. 7, 1929 and was the fourth traditional ruler and Ohinoyi of Ebiraland.
He was a son of the second Attah (now “Ohinoyi’’) of Ebiraland, Ibrahim Onoruoiza of the Omadivi Clan, who reigned from 1917 to 1954.
Ado-Ibrahim was enthroned as the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland in 1997 and reigned until Sunday, when he died.
Before ascending the throne, Ado-Ibrahim was a successful businessman who lived most parts of his life in Lagos.
Dr Ibrahim was born to His Royal Highness, Alhaji Ibrahim Onoruoiza Attah and Hajiya Hauwawu Ozianuva.
Young Ado Ibrahim completed his Nursery and Quranic education at the age of 11 years.
He was enrolled at the Okene Native Administration School from 1934 to 1940 for his elementary education. Upon completion of his elementary education, he was admitted to Okene Middle School in 1941.
After spending two years, he moved to the famous Ondo Boys High School for his secondary education from 1943 to 1946. From 1947 to 1949, he moved to Oduduwa College, Ile-Ife, Osun where he completed his secondary education.
He was employed by the United African Company (UAC) in 1950 as a special entrant for accelerated management.
Having successfully gone through the Accounting and Sales Department in 1952, he was promoted to the post of Manager at the Kingsway Stores, Kaduna.
In January 1953, he quit Kingsway Stores and moved to Jos as Personnel Manager of Amalgamated Tin Mines of Nigeria Limited in charge of maintaining operation areas of Bukuru and Barkin Ladi.
In that same year, he attended the first Mining School in Jos and qualified as a Mining Prospector and Area Manager.
Later in the year, the company sent him on a further technical training course, organised by the Anglo-American Mining Corporation, in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Upon his return, he was immediately promoted to Area manager and assigned the responsibility to excavate the Lead/Zinc Ore deposits at Izom in the Abuja district, and to lead a team prospecting for gold and base materials in the location.
He enrolled in 1952 as an external candidate for a degree at the London School of Economics, by utilising the extramural study facilities organised by the British Council in Jos.
He combined his mining and prospecting duties successfully with the undergraduate study programme and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Statistics from the London School of Economics in 1954.
In 1955, he won a Ford Foundation Sponsorship to undertake a six-month course in Marketing and Business Strategy at the Business School of Harvard University.
On the strength of his performance, he was readmitted into the Master’s Programme of the school as a full-time student. He thus earned the celebrated Harvard MBA in 1959.
Having fortified himself with practical industrial experience and sound academic training, he settled into marriage with Miss Abimbola Solomon on Nov. 1, 1959.
Ohinoyi Left Indelible Mark on Ebiraland — Says Ganduje
National Chairman, All Progressives Congress, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje expressed shock over the demise of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, saying his reign has left an indelible mark on his kingdom.
A statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, the APC national chairman described the traditional ruler as a father figure, who lived his life for the growth of Ebiraland in Kogi state and Nigeria in general.
The statement stated that late Ohinoyi’s leadership reflected his humility, adding that he was passionate, hardworking, and hospitable towards his subjects both at home and diaspora.
The statement partly read, “The late Ado Abdulrahman Ibrahim’s reign as the 4th Ohinoyi left an indelible mark on Ebiraland, while his commitment to discipline serves as an inspiration for generations yet unborn.
“We noted that the fascinating life and journey of Ado Abdulrahman Ibrahim’s life is a testimony of his resilience, wisdom, and dedication to tradition.
“The ruling APC also commiserated with Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, the immediate family of the late monarch, and Kogites in general over the loss. We pray unto Allah to forgive his shortcomings and grant the departed soul eternal rest.”
Dino Melaye Suspends Campaign
Sen. Dino Melaye, the Peoples Democratic Party candidate in the November 11 governorship election in Kogi State, has described the death of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Dr. Ado Ibrahim as a national loss.
Melaye said in a statement signed by the Spokesman for his Campaign Council, Mr. Omoyemi Gold Olumudi, on Sunday that the late traditional ruler’s death was a personal loss to him as one who watched over his life and career.
He said that as a mark of respect and honour to the late royal father, he had suspended his campaign activities for the next 48 hours.
“He treated me as a son just as his counsel and guidance will remained etched on my memory.
“The Ohinoyi will be remembered for his image and achievements which loomed larger than his immediate family, the Okene traditional Council and our dear Kogi State.
“The revered late monarch stood out in business, politics and in Traditional Administration, where he was distinguished in panache, class and finesse,” Melaye said.
He said the late traditional ruler’s “exposure and world outlook reflected in his broad mindedness, cordiality and accommodation of others within and outside his domain”.
The PDP candidate said the late royal father would be missed and prayed God to comfort and bless his family and the people of Kogi State.
By David Torough, Abuja
Business tycoon Aminu Alhassan Dantata yesterday donated N1.5 billion to those affected flood in Maiduguri, Borno State.Dantata who was accompanied friends and associates in Kano was received in Maiduguri by the Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum.The businessman extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and the people of the state especially those who lost their beloved ones to the flood.
Dantata, 96 lamented the bad economy and prayed for the peace and harmony of Borno State and Nigeria. The Borno State governor expressed heartfelt gratitude for the visit.He acknowledged that its serves as a powerful beacon of hope and solidarity during the trying times.Zulum said, “The people of Borno deeply appreciate this show of humanity by a 96-year-old to visit us.“Let me say it, Our Baba has donated the sum of N1.5 billion to support the flood victims. May Allah bless and reward you with Aljannah.”This donation comes after Dantata’s nephew, Aliko Dangote also donated N1 billion to the flood victims.Meanwhile, Borno State government has raised the alarm, saying the people are at the risk of health crisis.Government has warned residents against eating vegetables from flooded areas because they are contaminated.A statement posted by the Ministry of Information and Internal Security on Facebook yesterday advised the public to abide by the warning for their wellbeing.The statement read, “Due to the recent flood disaster, vegetables from flooded areas are seriously contaminated with harmful substances, including sewage, dead bodies, chemicals and bacteria.“Consuming these contaminated vegetables can lead to serious health risks, including waterborne diseases, food poisoning, and other health complications. “To protect your health and safety, we urge you to avoid buying vegetables from flooded areas; only purchase vegetables from trusted sources and reputable markets; ensure that all vegetables are properly washed and cleaned before consumption.”Nearly 500,000 people have been displaced and more than 1 million affected by flood that recently submerged several parts of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.The flood, described as the worst in the state in 30 years, resulted from the collapse of Alau Dam due to high rainfalls. The disaster also killed about 80 percent of animals in a zoo in the city as some ran away.
From Dan Amasingha, Minna
Niger State Government has signed a $2billion Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a Turkish company, Direkci Group for the off-taking of Soya Beans in the State.The agreement signed at the Niger State Government House, Minna was witnessed by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, officials of Direkci Group led by their MD/CEO Mr Nurullah Mahmet and other top government functionaries.
The 10-year partnership, which will cost $200 million per year and $2 billion for the 10 years period, is under the Niger Foods, and is expected to boost agriculture in the State, create job opportunities and improve the economic status of local farmers. Bago appreciated the Turkish Government for the willingness to invest in Niger State.According to him, “This collaboration is a game-changer for Niger State and we are confident it will significantly reduce unemployment and boost food security.”He said going forward, the state government was equally willing to partner with Turkey in other areas beyond agriculture.The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Turkish company, Mr Nurullah Mahmet said they have been in agric business for decades and have established their presence in Nigeria for 17 years.He said they were attracted by the agricultural programmes of the state and partnering with the state would be mutually beneficial for both parties.He commended Bago for providing the needed impetus for agric investment in the state.The MD said they were willing to put in $10 billion in agriculture investment for the next 10 years and would work with the government of their country to provide security for their investment in the state.The Chairman, Niger Foods, Sammy Adigun disclosed that the Turkish firm will buy 500,000 tonnes of soya beans each year for 10 years.He said the agreement would empower local farmers by providing them with seeds and fertilizers, ensuring a guaranteed market for their produce.Adigun revealed that the Turkish firm was also investing in a 100,000 hectare Green House project with cold chain facility at the agro processing zone with an annual output of about 160,000 tonnes of fruits and vegetables such as tomato and pepper among others.He added that the group will also establish a total of 2.5 million chicken production facility including eggs and feed mills production in two phases.Adigun said the partnership would establish 30,000 hectares of soya beans farms with irrigation systems in Adunu, Paikoro Local Government Area of the state.He announced that already, the group had ordered the first chicken house for 500,000 chickens and would be functional in six months time, while 2000 green houses were already being shipped as the group was also to provide $50 million as direct support to farmers.The agreement, according to Adigun will include the company providing security for their investment in areas prone to insecurity in the state.
From Sylvia Udegbunam EnuguEnugu State Government and Jelfah Nigeria Ltd yesterday signed N40 billion deal for the revitalisation of the long-moribund state-owned Sunrise Flour Mills, Enugu.The deal signed at the Government House, Enugu saw Jelfah acquire 60 percent equity stake in Sunrise Flour Mills and is expected to invest N24 billion in the iconic mills, which went moribund since 1985 just two years after it was commissioned in 1983.
The state government keeps 40 percent based on the existing assets of the company. Speaking at the brief signing ceremony and public announcement of the transaction, the Enugu State governor, Peter Mbah said this milestone, coming on the heels of the N100 billion deal to resuscitate the hitherto dying Enugu United Palm Products Limited (UPPL) is clear demonstration of his administration’s determination to grow the state’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion through private sector investment.“Just a few months ago, we secured an investment size of N100 billion with a company known as Pragmatic Palms Limited, and today we have just witnessed Enugu State, again securing another investment size of N40 billion.“This investment will see Jelfah Group investing N24 billion into the existing Enugu Sunrise Flour Mills. N22bn will be directed into revamping and resuscitation of the Sunrise Flower Mill, and N2 billion is going to come to the State by way of cash.“The Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) is also going to own 10,000 hectares of farmland, where we are going to cultivate the inputs for the flour mills such as cassava and grain.“This is a testament that when we say Enugu State is open for business, we are truly committed to it. We understand how to make a win-win deal, both for the investors and for the people of Enugu State,” Mbah stated.He assured Jelfah group of continued support, enjoining other prospective investors to come over to invest in the state.“We hope that this signals to other investors, who may still be on the fence that Enugu is actually ready for business. We are committed to not just creating the enabling environment, but also working with investors to help them derisk investments and grow their businesses,” the governor concluded.Speaking, the Chairman of Jelfah Group, Moses Saromi, said they were attracted by Governor Mbah’s vision, dynamic leadership, and speedily increasing ease of doing business in Enugu State under his leadership, saying that Jelfah was in a hurry to transform Sunrise Mills to a centre of excellence.“Your policies have unlocked new opportunities for private sector participation, and Jelfah is proud to be part of this progressive movement.“This acquisition of 60 percent equity not only aligns with Jelfah’s long-term vision, but also furthers the governor’s ambition of empowering the people, revitalising moribund assets, and ensuring sustainable development. And together with our consortium partners, our goal is to transform Sunrise Flour Mills into a centre of excellence, harnessing our collective expertise to drive growth and value creation.“So, we firmly believe that this partnership will catalyse positive change, spark job creation, elevate local production capacities, and contribute significantly to the socio-economic advancement of Enugu State,” he said.“We have worked hard in the last months to get to this point. We have a short term, medium term, and a long term plan for the flour mills. Activities will start in earnest. In another 90 days, you are going to experience a lot of movements and activities with regards to the revitalisation of the flour mills.“Our activities will include recruitment of people, who will run the plant, indigenes of the state, obviously. And as the governor rightly said, we are creating a model that will provide the inputs for the mills, such as the 10,000 hectres of farmlands to cultivate all the inputs for the mills,” he said.
Customs Intercept Contraband Worth N510.92m in Two Conths
ShareThe Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit Zone C, says it intercepted contrabands with a Duty Paid Value (DPV)...
APC Forum Decries Deplorable Condition of Federal Roads
ShareThe Forum of Stakeholders of the All Progressive Congress (APC) has decried the deplorable condition of some federal roads in...
Court Shifts Judgment in Suit Seeking Ganduje’s Sack Until Sept. 23
ShareA Federal High Court, Abuja, on Wednesday, shifted the judgment in a suit seeking the removal of Dr Abdullahi Ganduje...
Yuan Strengthens 7. 087 Against Dollar
ShareThe central parity rate of the Chinese currency renminbi, or the yuan, strengthened 160 pips to 7.087 against the dollar...
Edo 2024: NSCDC Deploys 6,433 Personnel
Share The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 6,433 operatives to provide security ahead of the Edo...
Ex-Gov Yahaya Bello Honours EFCC’s Invitation
ShareFormer Governor of Kogi, Alhaji Yahaya Bello has honoured the invitation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over...
Enugu LG polls: 4,145 Security Personnel to Be Deployed – ENSIEC
ShareThe Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) has said that no fewer than 4,145 security personnel would be involved in...
NNPC Ltd/TotalEnergies’ $550m Ubeta Upstream Gas Project Begins Operation – Aide
Share The 550 million dollars upstream gas project between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) and TotalEnergies on...
Kwara LG Poll: Court Allows KWSIEC to Proceeds with Process
ShareFrom Samuel James, Ilorin On the restraining order regards the releasing of the National Voter Register to the Kwara State...
Barau Receives Kano Gov’s Top Aide to APC
ShareBy Eze Okechukwu, Abuja The Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin has received a top aide of the Kano...