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KOGI GUBER 2023: ADVANCING AND CONSOLIDATING APC’s TIME TESTED VICTORY
The All Progressives Congress Activism Forum, APCAF has reacted to news reports publicising a delegation of the so called Audu/Faleke political structure credited to have paid a visit to the National Secretariat of the APC and were received by Deputy National Chairman North.
A statement signed by Ibrahim Jimoh Esq, the National Coordinator,(APCAF) and Tunde Braimoh Ado Esq National Secretary,(APCAF) on Wednesday, read; “The attention of the All Progressives Congress Activists Forum, APCAF, has been drawn to the news item publicising a delegation of the so called Audu/Faleke political structure (APC Kogi East) credited to have paid a visit to the National Secretariat of the APC and were received by Deputy National Chairman North. Led by one Senator Dangana Ochaja, in which he tasked the National Working Committee of the party to a level playing ground for every aspirant to ensure a free, fair and transparent Kogi State governorship primary nomination process.
“It behoves us to therefore state: “It has become an axiom that in a democracy (as opposed to Danganacracy), election is won through mobilization of popular support base and votes from the mass of the electorates. And towards that end, nobody serves you power a la carte. It is on this premise we find it necessary to dissect the motives behind the activities of Sen. Dangana Ochaja and his co-conspirators.
“It is equally important to express our dismay with the champions of zoning the APC guber ticket to a particular ethnic group, acting out a premeditated script of pernicious self serving political game plan. In a polity that has gone through the trauma of tribal cleavages, there is need for crucial therapy in support for unity, togetherness and competence. Kogi State cannot afford another round of arrangement devoid of competence and merits.
“Unfortunately, a minority section of the political class in the state, with half baked concepts and ill-digested ideas, owing loyalty to no other person than their clients are trying to sow the seeds of discords, confusion and distrust. They are determined to hoodwink the party delegates, turn black to white and raise base sentiments to becloud matters, which the people of the state have dismissed with maturity and profound understanding.
“While not grudging the rights of any contestant the liberty to clamour, deepening the principles of democratic values during the forth coming gubernatorial primary nomination exercise, we must posit the party in Kogi State as constituted in the last eight years has been a political winning machine in every free and fair party primaries or the overall general elections at all levels.
“It would be irresponsible on our part to say we are surprised by the hollow posture and ranting of Senator Dangana Ochaja and his collaborators politically masquerading as if having the ability to deliver the party during the forth coming gubernatorial contest in the state. The truth of the matter is that the party as presently constituted undoubtedly demonstrated the capacity to win elections in the recently concluded Presidential, National Assembly and House of Assembly election in the state. The party came out in flying colours to the admiration of committed party members across the country.
“The feat attained by the Kogi APC based on the outcome of the 2023 general elections elevated the winning formula of the party as role model in both the region and the nation at large. The success of the party was a form of irreversible quite revolution, unprecedented in the political annals of the state.
“Therefore, it is completely laughable and pretentious for any one to start making false claims of lack of level playing field in the Kogi APC. It is interesting to note that without level playing field and transparent nomination processes witnessed during the build-up to the 2003 general elections in Kogi, the party couldn’t have recorded the monumental victory witnessed after the polls in the state.
“Rather than masquerading the real intention, their intention, is expedient for Dangana, his sponsors and co- travellers to surmoun courage to disclose their real agenda towards the forth coming party primary nomination processes in Kogi State. They should perish the idea and desperation of using the name of Late Abubakar Audu including exploiting his goodwill for the attainment of their dishonest voyage. Their dubious but failed plot seeking for rights to first refusal for the APC gubernatorial ticket on behalf of his pay masters is dead on arrival.
“It is disheartening that some political desperados devoid of electoral value and prowess are trying to undermine the existing victorious party structure in Kogi just to satisfy their narrow political agenda.
“Sen. Dangana is weeping, waiting, raving and ranting in deferrance to the imminent democratic hurricane about to hit him badly. The only option he has is to admit the fact that his recent activities are detrimental to his person and eroding cohesion and principles of party discipline. Such admission must arouse his consciousness about the present nature of APC Kogi East politics. The nature of dominant political space in which he lives, with newly elected representatives mandated by the people few weeks ago must be ready to make amends.
“We are glad to state that both the President Elect and the National Secretariat of the APC are aware of the characters behind the new found agitation using Sen. Dangana as the poster boy. We can state with fair amount certainly about their readiness to call them to order.
“In conclusion, let us use this opportunity to plead most sincerely to allow the National Secretariat of the APC to allow Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello to lead the way in support of the best aspirant imbued with capacity to build on his selfless legacies to emerge as the candidate of the party during the primary selection process.
“That given the party’s overwhelming victory and performance at the just concluded general elections of 2023 against the monumental and surmountable challenges that confronted us, extreme care and caution must be taken to ensure that the party produces the very best candidates with capacity, competence, vision and experience to win in the forthcoming gubernatorial elections.
“That the All Progressives Congress Activists Forum( APCAF) has resolved beyond any reasonable doubt to overwhelmingly support and endorse His Excellency,YAHAYA Adoza Bello, to produce his own change-agent and successor as history has shown that the governor has perfected the unique sterling abilities to win elections even from impossible angles and to woo the grassroots electorates in the state and beyond.” It added.
- … Endorses Solar Drive, Sets Sights on 2030 Energy Targets
- …Urges Journalists to Support, Not Sabotage Nigeria’s Clean Energy Transition
In a renewed push for sustainable national development, civil society organizations have thrown their weight behind Nigeria’s shift to renewable energy, commending the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) for its commitment to powering underserved communities through clean energy solutions.
Under the umbrella of the CSOs Budget Implementation, Assessment, Monitoring, and Evaluation Committee (CBIAMEC), stakeholders held a press briefing in Abuja themed “Powering Nigeria’s Future: Advocating for a National Shift Toward Renewable Energy for Sustainable Development.”
Speaking at the event, CBIAMEC Chairman, Ambassador Splendour Agbonkpolor, emphasized that renewable energy holds the key to unlocking economic prosperity, job creation, and climate resilience. He described Nigeria’s energy access gap, where over 85 million citizens still lack electricity as a national emergency that demands bold, innovative, and inclusive solutions.
“We are here today not just to speak truth to power, but to align with power that works for the people. Renewable energy is not just a technology; it’s a tool for justice, equity, and human dignity.”Agbonkpolor said.
The committee particularly commended FG for its strategic initiatives aimed at deploying 4 megawatts of renewable energy in all 36 states and the FCT, as well as a separate plan to deliver 5 megawatts to every local government in partnership with the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON).
“These projects are not only ambitious, they are necessary. They represent a real chance to lift communities out of darkness, boost local economies, and bring Nigeria closer to its renewable energy target of 30% by 2030.” Agbonkpolor noted.
The committee also addressed the ongoing ₦10 billion in the 2025 approved budget for the installation of a solar mini-grid at the Presidential Villa. While acknowledging growing media interest and public scrutiny of the initiative, CBIAMEC clarified that its position is not one of opposition but of constructive engagement.
“We had a fruitful interface with the Director General of ECN where detailed clarifications were provided on procurement procedures, project scope, and transparency mechanisms. The Commission assured us that all steps are being taken in line with the Public Procurement Act, including competitive bidding and regular performance audits.” Agbonkpolor added.
The group pledged to serve as an independent watchdog, monitoring the implementation to ensure the solar intervention truly benefits the people and delivers value for every kobo spent. “We will be vigilant, objective, and fact-driven in our oversight role.”
Meanwhile the Committee also raised concerns over what it described as “media trials” that could derail public trust and investment in renewable energy projects. It urged journalists to uphold ethical standards, verify information, and avoid sensationalism that may hinder national progress.
“We are not calling for silence, we are calling for responsibility. The media has a powerful role to play in this transition, not as saboteurs, but as storytellers of change and partners in development.” he restated.
The briefing concluded with a five-point call to action, encouraging households to explore solar home systems, innovators to invest in green technology, communities to support mini-grid projects, policymakers to prioritize renewable energy in national planning, and the media to amplify success stories in the sector.
- …Sets the stage for a future of more possibilities
Wema Bank, Nigeria’s most innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has officially marked the incredible milestone of its 80th anniversary on Friday, May 2nd, 2025.
Celebrated as Nigeria’s oldest indigenous bank, Wema Bank was founded on May 2nd, 1945, as Agbonmagbe Bank Limited; an institution that has now evolved from a single-branch operation aimed at empowering indigenous Nigerians into a formidable force that continues to blaze the trail in Nigeria’s banking and financial industry.
From bridging gaps in access to finance for underserved Nigerians to empowering businesses with insightful financial solutions and support, providing a platform for other industries to thrive and proactively delivering financial solutions tailored to the needs of every Nigerian, Wema Bank has built a legacy of impact for 8 decades. With millions of customers and global presence via 150+ branches and the ALAT App, Wema Bank continues to set the pace in customer-centric innovation and impactful banking.
Extending heartfelt gratitude to the Bank’s stakeholders, Moruf Oseni, the MD/CEO of Wema Bank reiterated the Bank’s commitment to continue going above and beyond in service of its customers in the decades to come. According to him, “Wema at 80 is a milestone that extends deeply into the very roots of the industry, the people and the nation. This is an 80-year-old bank that began to set the pace for indigenous businesses in the depths of colonial rule and has remained resolute in carrying on that mission since 1945, showing the world that ‘Nigerian-owned’ can last, and institutions can be agents of transformation in their own capacity. It’s a journey I am deeply proud of and I cannot celebrate alone”.
“I take this moment to express my sincerest gratitude to every person and institution that has played a part in Wema Bank’s success story. From our customers to shareholders, investors, partners to employees past and present, and every other stakeholder whose efforts run in the veins of this great Bank. We are Wema and I take this moment, on behalf of the Board and Management of the Bank, to reiterate our lifelong commitment to you. Wema Bank is built to last, Wema Bank is built for you and Wema Bank will never relent in delivering optimum value to you. It has been 80 years of impact, and as we look ahead to a future of limitless possibilities, our promise to you remains the same. We Are With You, All The Way!”, Oseni concluded.
Wema Bank’s 80th anniversary has taken the world by storm, with a major highlight being the Wema at 80 Gala Night scheduled to hold in Lagos at 6 p.m. on Friday May 2nd, 2025. Headlined by Afrobeats stars Davido and Wande Coal, Fuji legend Ayuba, vocal sensation Yinka Davies, 9ice and a star-studded lineup of celebrities, dignitaries and stakeholders; the night promises to be one for the books, convening 8 decades of generations in a glamorous ceremony themed ‘Timeless Elegance’.
Anyone can be a part of the Wema at 80 Gala Night by tuning in live at 7 p.m. to the Bank’s YouTube Channel as well as select national TV stations.
The Africa Trade Consortium, a premier platform for promoting intra-African trade, is set to host its 5th edition of the “Tea Break Edition” on May 14th, 2024, at the Grand Pela Hotel, Durimi, Abuja. This annual event, organized by PR Times Africa Media Ltd, aims to boost trade relations within the continent and explore new business opportunities.
*Key Highlights of the Event:*
– *Date:* May 14th, 2024
– *Time:* 10:00 am
– *Venue:* Grand Pela Hotel, Durimi, Abuja
– *Theme:* “Tea Break Edition”
– *Objective:* To promote intra-African trade, strengthen economic cooperation, and unlock new trade opportunities in the tea industry and related sectors.
*This Year’s Focus:*
The 5th edition of the “Tea Break Edition” will bring together top decision-makers, businessmen and women, and diplomats from diverse regions of the continent to discuss the tea industry as a business opportunity and explore related trade prospects. The event will also address key challenges facing trade within the continent, including trade barriers, border challenges, security, and weather-related issues.
*Quotes from the Organizers:*
“The Africa Trade Consortium is committed to fostering economic growth and development within the continent by promoting trade and investment,” said the Lead Consultant of PR Times Africa Media Ltd and Convener of the Africa Trade Consortium. “We believe that the tea industry has immense potential for growth and we look forward to exploring new trade opportunities with our partners from across Africa.”
*About the Africa Trade Consortium:*
The Africa Trade Consortium is a trade initiative launched in Abuja, Nigeria in 2022. Its primary objective is to promote trade between Nigeria and other African countries, fostering economic cooperation and collaboration among nations on the continent. The consortium brings together stakeholders from various sectors, including government, private enterprise, and civil society, to facilitate dialogue and collaboration.
For more information, please visit (link unavailable) or call +234802422404.
CSOs Back Nigeria’s Clean Energy Push, Applaud ECN’s Commitment
Wema Bank Celebrates 80 Years of Impact
