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The Holocaust: Rwanda Marks International Day of Remembrance

Published

9 months ago

February 16, 2024

Eric

By Dolapo Aina

The International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of The Holocaust was held at the Kigali Genocide Memorial on Thursday, 25th of January 2024. This year’s event which was well attended by Ambassadors and diplomats stationed in Rwanda; Rwandans and other nationalities residing in Rwanda was quite solemn vis-à-vis the current war between Israel and Hamas.

The evening commenced with Rabbi Michael Miller (former Executive Vice President and CEO of the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York) opening proceedings with prayers.

Germany’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Ambassador Heike Uta Dettmann, who was emotional, stated in her brief speech: “We remember. On January 27, the world commemorates the millions of victims of national socialism and the unspeakable crimes and murder committed against Jews, Sinti and Roma, homosexuals, the disabled, prisoners of war, people whose lives, racial madness had declared as “unworthy of living”. For Germans, this remembering is fundamental. It is a moral obligation. We remember.

“There are few survivors of the Holocaust only left who can tell their own stories. That is why keeping the memory alive is getting even more of a pressing issue with each passing year. Remembrance is important. But without drawing lessons learned from our past, remembrance will remain simply that: the past. Germany acknowledges this historical responsibility. “Never again” must actively be shaped every day.

“Therefore, Germany campaigns nationally and internationally against anti-Semitism. Still, it is a deplorable fact that today, many Jews feel that they cannot live their religion and culture in Germany free from security concerns. Anti-Semitism is on the rise in Germany, as are hate crimes against minorities going hand in hand with a heartbreaking lack of empathy with the victims of these crimes. This is one of the biggest challenges for our society and our democratic system. Against this background I feel even more humbled to be part of the Holocaust Remembrance Day in Rwanda. A commemoration that is generously hosted by the Kigali Genocide Memorial which itself is a unique place of remembrance, the final resting place of 250,000 people who in Kigali fell victim to the genocide against the Tutsi. I am most impressed by the Rwandan way to face up to the memories of the Genocide against the Tutsi and to walk the difficult path of reconciliation. It is an honour for me to speak to you at this venue.”

The United Nations Resident Coordinator for Rwanda Dr Ozonnia Ojielo in his speech stated that “I am deeply honoured to join the International Day of Commemoration in memory of the victims of the Holocaust, within the solemn walls of the Kigali Genocide Memorial. As we gather on this occasion, we collectively reflect on the theme “A Lost World: The Destruction of the Jewish Communities.” It is incumbent upon us to acknowledge the interconnectedness of our stories and the shared responsibility we bear in preserving the memory of atrocities, while tirelessly working towards a world free from the shackles of hatred and intolerance.”

He further stated that: “The Holocaust, a dark chapter in human history, reminds us of the profound impact that prejudice and discrimination can have on individuals and entire communities. The genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda a mere few decades ago stands as a stark testament that the lessons of the Holocaust transcend time and place; they are universal lessons resonating across borders, cultures, and generations. The resilience displayed by the Israeli people in the aftermath of such a profound tragedy serves as an inspiration for us all. As we remember the Holocaust, we pay homage to the survivors and their remarkable ability to rebuild their lives and communities. Their narratives underscore the significance of solidarity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to ensuring that such atrocities never stain the fabric of humanity again. In the midst of unimaginable horrors, we draw strength from the countless stories of resilience and courage – from enduring friendships forged in concentration camps to those who risked their lives to provide shelter and refuge. The survivors of the Holocaust, who found beauty and meaning in life after enduring the worst of humanity, remind us of the indomitable human spirit.”

The UN Resident Coordinator posited that: “Rwanda, too, has stood as a global example, demonstrating the transformative power of reconciliation and unity in the face of unspeakable horrors. The journey towards healing and rebuilding has been arduous, but the progress made stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the potential for positive transformation, even in the darkest of times.”

Preventing another Holocaust necessitates addressing intricate issues related to human rights, tolerance, and international cooperation. Two primary categories for focused action are: Education and Awareness: Promoting Education about Genocides: Implementing comprehensive educational programs that teach the history of past genocides, including the Holocaust, is essential. This education should emphasize the consequences of hatred, discrimination, and the dehumanization of any group. Fostering Tolerance and Understanding: Encouraging educational initiatives that promote tolerance, empathy, and understanding among diverse communities is vital. It involves teaching critical thinking and encouraging open discussions about different cultures, religions, and perspectives.

Also, International Cooperation and Human Rights Protection: Strengthening International Institutions: Reinforcing international organizations like the United Nations and its agencies to actively address and prevent human rights violations and abuses is crucial. Diplomatic efforts, good offices, peacekeeping missions, sanctions, and prosecutions against those promoting hatred, discrimination, and violence are essential components.

And also, global commitment to human rights: encouraging nations worldwide to commit to protect and uphold universal human rights is vital. All human rights are equal. This involves diplomatic pressure, economic sanctions, and other measures against governments or entities that engage in or support activities leading to human rights violations or potential genocides.
The speech by Ambassador Einat Weiss who is Israel’s Ambassador to Rwanda wen thus: “I am standing here today, on this stage, at the very heart of a humane tragedy that took place in recent history. I’m humbled. I’m sad. I’m confused. And I’m scared. 81 years passed from the time the Nazis officially launched their systematic campaign of destroying and demolishing Jewish civilization. 81 years have passed and we have awakened to the worst possible nightmare which started on October 7th and has rippled through the world since then. A Tsunami of anti-Semitism, hate, racism all out, photographed, aired and non-apologetic is taking place as we gather here today. It’s taking strongholds all over the world. It has different size and shapes. It can be overt and public, or covert-sneaky-and undetected. It can be a chant, discriminatory behaviour, a boycott, or even a full-fledge violence. One thing is sure– Anti-Semitism is here. Not behind closed doors, not as a minor act, but a real threat to Jews all over the world.”

Ambassador Einat Weiss went further: “On October 7th the citizens of Israel had woken up to the darkest day in their modern history. Not since the holocaust, had my people gone through the horrors that we witnessed this day. We realized that there is no safe haven for us. That even in our own country that we established on piles of ashes and blood, that we fought and still are; to have, the only small Jewish country in the world, is not safe. We realized that forever the slaughtering knife will hover above our heads. The horror stories that are still coming out from this day are unfathomable; rape, sexual abuse, beheading, arson. Kids that were baked in ovens in front of their parents, families that were burnt alive, women who were tied naked to trees and families that were kidnapped, separated and abolished. It wasn’t a god sent curse. It was an act that was perpetrated by so-called humane-beings. By a terror organization that designed, planned and executed one of the worst genocidal acts of modern history. Hamas, is a terror organization, that openly calls in its charter to destroy Israel and the Jewish communities. Unlike what many led themselves to believe, Hamas will not discriminate between Israelis and any other Jew. Its higher goal is to eliminate all. It is not a liberation group, it’s an anti-Semitic terror group. Don’t get it wrong if the world continues to give it the legitimacy it still gets today, he will continue with this exact goal. As we commemorate the International Remembrance Day of the Holocaust, it is ever so important to remind us all that it was not just a historical event; it was a catastrophic breach of humanity’s moral code. Six million Jewish men, women, and children were systematically persecuted and murdered. Their stories serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of prejudice, discrimination, and unchecked hatred.

“Every year, and this year is not an exception, we hear the testimonies of the survivors. We do it so we never forget. We do it to understand what were the conditions that created the platform for the rise of Hitler. We do it to respect them and their lost ones, and remind ourselves their heroism and unbelievable mental capabilities. And we do it so we shall never forget. All of us. All humanity. The events that took place through and after October 7th, reminded us that all these years that we had clung to the saying “never again” like a child cling to his mother hand, we were deluding ourselves. I belong to the generation that grew up on this saying. The third generation. The Sabras. We were born in the Jewish state. We grew up on our grandparents’ stories. All this time believing that the we are safe. That the Holocaust will never happen again. Something that belongs to the past; like a yellow page in an old book. One of the hardest realisations, the shutter of all believes; it can happen again.”
Ambassador Einat Weiss who was solemn in her speech stated that one thing is sure, Antisemitism is here. It was not a God-sent cause. It was a plan hatched by human beings.

Rabbi Michael Miller during his speech stated that: “I never expected that after speaking on The Holocaust that I would be doing same on the Continent of Africa. What human being would kidnap human beings and keep them fifty metres below ground? Have we done enough, so that never again would just not be a slogan but a commitment? Action is the only remedy to indifference. It is not sufficient to come to commemoration. It is not sufficient to have the education. What is sufficient and important is what we do with the education. To ensure we remember, we need to be actively engaged, to ensure that we never forget.”

Minister Dr. Jean Damascene Bizimana, Minister of Unity and Civic Engagement of the Republic of Rwanda also gave a brief speech emphasising the importance of commemorating The Holocaust and The 1994 Genocide Against The Tutsi.

An online testimony by Ms. Rena Quint, a Holocaust Survivor was viewed by the audience during the event. A performance by Mashirika Troupe titled Clouding Memories was performed whilst Ms. Nayim recited a poem by Hayim Nahman Bialik; the Israeli National Poet.

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Henrietta Ugboh Becomes Independent Non- Executive Director As Owanari Duke Retires from UBA Board

Published

19 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Eric

Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has announced the appointment of Henrietta Ugboh as an Independent Non-Executive Director.

The appointment has been approved by the relevant regulatory bodies, including the Central Bank of Nigeria.

UBA’s Group Chairman, Tony Elumelu, CFR commenting on the appointment, said, “Henrietta Ugboh brings a track record of professional success, integrity and leadership, which will further strengthen the UBA Group Board, underlining once again the Group’s commitment to robust corporate governance.”

Ugboh holds a degree in Economics and Statistics from the University of Benin, an MBA from ESUT Business School, and is an alumnus of the Harvard Business School’s Executive Management Program. She has over 30 years experience in banking with Citibank and is an Honorary Senior Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria and a Fellow of the Institute of Credit Administration (FICA).

Elumelu added that with her considerable experience and expertise, which includes commercial banking, credit, and risk management, the UBA Board is delighted to welcome Mrs Ugboh to the Group Board, “We look forward to her invaluable contribution to the Group, as we continue to execute our unique growth strategy across Africa and globally.”

The Board also announced the retirement of Mrs. Owanari Duke, an Independent Non-Executive Director, who joined the UBA Group Board in October 2012.

During her tenure, Mrs. Duke provided distinguished leadership, serving on Committees of the Bank including the Board Governance Committee, Board Audit, Governance, Nomination & Remuneration Committee, Board Credit Committee, Finance & General Purpose Committee and Statutory Audit Committee.

On behalf of the board, Mr. Elumelu expressed UBA’s deep appreciation to Mrs. Duke for her dedication and significant contributions to the Group, wishing her the best in her future endeavour.

United Bank for Africa Plc is a leading Pan-African financial institution, offering banking services to more than forty-five million customers, across 1,000 business offices and customer touch points in 20 African countries. With presence in New York, London, Paris and Dubai, UBA is connecting people and businesses across Africa through retail, commercial and corporate banking, innovative cross-border payments and remittances, trade finance and related banking services.

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Dusk at Dawn: The Life and Times of Nigeria’s COAS, Taoreed Lagbaja

Published

3 days ago

November 10, 2024

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Nigerians were thrown into mourning in the early hours of Tuesday, November 5, 2024, when the news of the death of the country’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) was formally announced.

It has earlier been rumored that the COAS had died many days before the official announcement from many quarters including a popular online news platform, but both the Army and the presidency had been consistent in their denials of the late Army chief’s death prior to Tuesday.

Lagbaja goes down in history as the third Chief of Army Staff to die in office.

In the presidential statement, it was revealed that Lagbaja battled and died of undisclosed illness.

In a message announcing his death, and signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, it was noted as follows:

“Announcement of the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, regrets to announce the passing of Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of the Army Staff, at age 56.

“He passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after a period of illness.

“Born on February 28, 1968, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed Chief of Army Staff on June 19, 2023, by President Tinubu.

“His distinguished military career began when he enrolled in the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987. On September 19, 1992, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Nigerian Infantry Corps as a member of the 39th Regular Course.

“Throughout his service, Lt. General Lagbaja demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment, serving as a platoon commander in the 93 Battalion and the 72 Special Forces Battalion.

“He played pivotal roles in numerous internal security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity across Kaduna and Niger States.

“An alumnus of the prestigious U.S. Army War College, he earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies, demonstrating his dedication to professional growth and excellence in military leadership.

“Lt. General Lagbaja is survived by his beloved wife, Mariya, and their two children.

“President Tinubu expresses his heartfelt condolences to the family and the Nigerian Armed Forces during this difficult time. He wishes Lt. General Lagbaja eternal peace and honours his significant contributions to the nation.”

Described as a warrior soldier, Lagbaja followed through his military career with equanimity, excelling on all fronts he was posted to. His supervision of the Nigerian Army since June 19, 2023, when he assumed leadership has received commendations.

Earlier, when Lagbaja disappeared from public view, an online news media, reported exclusively that the army chief was dead, but the army, on October 20, 2024, dismissed the story as unfounded rumours that Lagbaja had passed on, adding that the army chief was undergoing medical treatment abroad.

But on October 30, President Tinubu appointed Major General Olufemi Oluyede as the acting COAS, and on November 5, decorated Oluyede with a new rank of lieutenant-general. Less than 24 hours, news filtered in that the army chief was dead. Unconfirmed report says he had been clinically dead, and was on life support, having suffered untreatable ailment, until an agreement was reached to remove the life support. Neither the army nor the president has however, corroborated the report.

With condolence registers opened in all army formations and the Defence Headquarters, many Nigerians have been registering their condolences to the President, the army, his immediate family and the country at large.

Some of the condolences messages include:

NEWS RELEASE

OSUN GOVERNMENT DECLARES THREE DAYS MOURNING FOR LATE COAS LAGBAJA

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has declared three days mourning for the late Chief of Army Staff of the federation, Lt General Taoreed Lagbaja.

The State government also directed that half mast flags should be flown in the state during the same period.

This was stated in the release by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, who disclosed that Condolence Registers has also been opened at the government house and Governor’s office for the condolence messages of the people of Osun.

According to the information Commissioner, the death of the late COAS is devastating, a collosal loss to humanity and the nation, and we can’t forget him.

The government is sad at this irreparable loss of one of the Glory of Osun state, and we particularly condole with the Lagbaja family of Ilobu, the Olobu of Ilobu and everyone.

The mourning period is to start today Thursday November 7, 2024 and end on Saturday 9th, while the Condolence Register is for people to pen down their memories of him, for the immortality of the late COAS, who died at age 56.

Once again, we pray God repose the soul of late Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja, and grant him Aljanna Fidaus

GOVERNOR ADELEKE LAMENTS, MOURNS EXIT OF GENERAL LAGBAJA

Governor Ademola Adelele has described as a sad loss the untimely exit of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoheed Lagbaja, calling his transition “a huge misfortune”

“A huge misfortune has befallen the people of Osun State, the Nigerian army and the great Lagbaja family of Ilobu. We lost a rare breed, a gentleman and a true patriot to the cold hand of death.

“Our late brother has a big vision of operational reforms for the Nigerian Army. He launched out and commenced the implementation of root and branch reform of the Nigerian Army. Within his short stint in office, he enforced professionalism and battled terrorists and bandits with terrifying fierceness.

“Our late brother was a very hardworking officer, a true workaholic, a fierce soldier, a replica of the traditional army officer with an ambitious plan for modernization and integration of the Nigerian Army.

“In my last encounter with him, he exuded hope and aspirations of a better Nigeria with the military as a stabilizer and unifier of the federation. In late General Lagbaja, we had a great military leader with the poise, the confidence and the firmness to realize the vision of a new Nigerian Army.

“Unfortunately, the end came suddenly. We surrendered to the will of the Almighty creator. I commiserate with the Commander – in- Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces, my people of Ilobu and the great Lagbaja family.

“We mourn together on this sad occasion. On behalf of the people and Government of Osun state, we extend commiseration to Mrs Mariya Lagbaja and the two children .”, Governor Adeleke noted in a statement he personally signed.

Signed:
HE, SENATOR ADEMOLA ADELEKE,
EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF OSUN OSUN STATE

NORTHERN GOVERNORA MOURN LATE COAS LAGBAJA

The Northern States Governors’ Forum has conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, over the demise of Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, who died on November 5, 2024, from a protracted illness.

The Chairman of the forum, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, of Gombe State, described the late COAS as a distinguished officer, who served the nation with remarkable courage and dedication.

“General Lagbaja’s life and career were defined by a commitment to the Nigerian Armed Forces and an exceptional dedication to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty amid the ongoing challenges posed by insurgency, banditry, and other criminal activities”, Governor Yahaya remarked.

The NSGF Chairman also noted that the late Lagbaja embodied the values of discipline, bravery, and integrity that characterize the finest traditions of military service, adding that his leadership played a significant role in strengthening the nation’s defence framework and upholding peace and stability.

Governor Yahaya, on behalf of the Northern States Governors Forum, sent his deepest sympathies to the Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede and members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, who have lost a remarkable leader, colleague, and patriot.

He also extended his heartfelt condolences to the wife of the late army chief Mariya Lagbaja, an illustrious daughter of Gombe State from Tula in Kaltungo LGA, and the entire family members as well as the government and people of Osun State where the deceased hailed from, urging them to find solace in his legacy of valour and service.

The Governor prayed to Almighty God to grant the soul of the deceased eternal rest and provide comfort to all who mourn this immense loss.

GOV OTU MOURNS LAGBAJA’S PASSING, DESCRIBES HIM AS COURAGEOUS SOLDIER

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has expressed profound sadness over the sudden death of Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, who, until his passing, was Chief of Staff of the Nigerian Army.

Describing the death of Lagbaja as a great loss to the Nigerian Army, the military, and the entire nation, Governor Otu, in a condolence message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Nsa Gill, said: “The late Chief of Army Staff’s untimely departure is a devastating blow and a monumental loss not only to the military but to our nation as a whole.”

Lamenting the painful death of Lt. General Lagbaja while acknowledging his bravery, Governor Otu noted that “he was known for his unwavering commitment, exemplary leadership, and dedicated service to Nigeria. Throughout his distinguished career, he played a crucial role in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and enhancing the security of our citizens.”

The governor praised the fallen Chief of Army Staff and his strategic vision, saying: “His relentless pursuit of excellence in the face of challenges was inspiring to all who served under him.”

As the nation mourns the loss of Lagbaja, Governor Otu urged Nigerians to celebrate the late Chief of Army Staff’s legacy of courage, bravery, and dedication, adding that “Lt. General Lagbaja’s service to Nigeria will forever be remembered, and his contributions will continue to inspire future generations of military personnel.”

On behalf of the government and the good people of Cross River State, Governor Otu extended his deepest sympathies to Lagbaja’s family and the Nigerian Army, adding: “May his soul rest in peace, and may we find solace in the memories of his service to our nation.”

OYEBANJI MOURNS DEATH OF COAS LAGBAJA

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed his condolences on the death of the Chief of the Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.

General Lagbaja who hailed from Osun State, died after a period of illness. He was aged 56 years old.

The Governor in a statement on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the death of Gen. Lagbaja as a monumental loss to the nation.

He described the deceased as a dedicated soldier, a committed officer and a tested general who fought many battles to defend the territorial integrity of the country.

Governor Oyebanji pointed out that the deceased committed his youthful and adult life to the service of the nation as a commissioned officer of the Nigerian Army and served meritoriously in many formations across the country.

According to him, history would always be kind to Gen. Lagbaja in the fight against insurgency in the Northeast as the Theatre Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole in which he deployed his skills and experience to ensure the routing of terrorists.

He said Gen. Lagbaja’s exploits was recognized in the Multinational Joint Task Force (MJTF) as a leading commander of the troops from the countries in the Lake Chad Basin in their quest to defeat insurgency.

Governor Oyebanji stressed that the deceased’s industry and resourcefulness were instrumental to his appointment as the Chief of the Army Staff, noting that although his tenure was brief, it was remarkable especially in the deployment of technology in soldiering.

Recalling his encounters with the late COAS, the Governor said the late Chief of Army Staff’s swift response to the security challenge in Ekiti State after the gruesome murder of two traditional rulers and the kidnapping of school children is responsible for the current peaceful atmosphere in the state.

Governor Oyebanji commiserated with the family of the deceased urging them to take solace in the worthy legacies left behind by the three-star general.

The Governor also extended his condolences to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Service Chiefs, the Army High Command, the government and people of Osun State and the entire nation on the loss of a great patriot.

MINISTERS OF DEFENCE, BADARU AND MATAWELLE, MOURN LAGBAJA

Ministers of Defence, Mohammed Badaru and Bello Matawelle, commiserated with the President, military and Lagbaja’s family over his death.

In a statement by the ministry’s spokesperson, Henshaw Ogubike, the ministers described Lagbaja’s death as a great loss to his family, the army and the nation at large.

“The passing on to eternal glory shocked us at the Ministry of Defence as our working relationship with him is commendable. He exhibited the spirit of camaraderie and cooperation with us in the discharge of our mandate.

“The late Chief of Army Staff contributed in no small measure to the internal security operations across Nigeria and also exhibited a high level of professionalism.

“He will be greatly missed by the family, the military and the nation as he served the nation with commitment and dedication,” the statement added.

CDS MUSA MOURNS CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF, LAGBAJA

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, described Lt Gen Lagbaja’s death as a great loss to the country, military and his family.

Musa said Lagbaja was courageous, hardworking, reliable, loyal and a dedicated service chief.

The CDS in a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brig Gen Tukur Gusau, added that Lagbaja was committed to the security and well-being of the nation.

He said, “The CDS on behalf of the AFN, expresses profound sorrow over the passing of Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, yesterday, Tuesday, after a brief illness.

“General Musa conveys his deepest condolences to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, family of the late General Lagbaja and all Nigerians over this sad loss.

“He is described as a courageous, hard-working, reliable, loyal, and dedicated service chief whose tireless efforts and unflinching commitment to the security and well-being of the nation were unparalleled.

“Therefore, his passing is a tremendous loss, not only to his family, the Army and the AFN but also to the entire nation and humanity.”

ACTING COAS OLUYEDE MOURNS EXIT OF GENERAL LAGBAJA

The Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede, expressed deep sadness over his predecessor’s demise.

who was scheduled to see the President, spoke to journalists at the forecourt of the Aso Rock Villa, urging Nigerians to celebrate Lagbaja’s life of service.

He said, “I want to urge citizens, for someone that has given his all for Nigeria, we need to celebrate him. So, I want Nigerians to celebrate him for his good work.

“The country as a whole, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, did the very best for him to be alive with us today. But we all belong to God, and He takes when He feels it necessary for him to do so.

“So it’s on a very sober note that I am talking this moment because the entire Nigeria Army is in a sorrowful mood because we have lost our leader, Lt Gen Lagbaja. He was someone who gave his all to Nigeria.”

Oluyede described Lagbaja as a dedicated and selfless leader who was deeply committed to Nigeria and served as an exemplary figure within the Nigerian Army.

He said he was known for his courage, professionalism and attention to detail, which set a standard for others to follow.

He added that Lagbaja’s passing was a significant loss, and those who knew him prayed for his peaceful rest in the afterlife.

At 56, many believe that Lagbaja died even as his career dawn started budding, having served only 16 months into his appointment. His last public appearance, according to reports, was at the 60th birthday party of billionaire businessman, Chief Kola Adesina.

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Endure a Little Bit More, FG Tells Nigerians Amid Hardship

Published

6 days ago

November 8, 2024

Eric

The Federal government, on Thursday, said it appreciates the endurance of Nigerians on side effects of economic reforms, which it says have started yielding results.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, stated this during an interactive session with the Senate Committee on Finance.

According to him, teething problems from the reforms are over for Nigerians as positive indicators for better days are already emerging.

“The two critical reforms on market-based price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and foreign exchange, are now at the stage of results delivery and by extension, viability of the Nation’s economy through restoration of fiscal viability,” he stated.

“These two pillars of the economic reforms that have taken positive shape now portends additional revenue for government, recovery of the finances of NNPCL and strong basis for growing the economy, in terms of attracting investment and creating of jobs.

“I think we need to commend Nigerians for staying the cause to this stage of getting benefits.”

On his part, the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Sani Musa, said the session was a fact finding one on workability or otherwise of the various reforms.

“Today we gather to deliberate on the pressing matters related to the sales of crude oil to domestic refineries in Nigeria, in Naira and its implication on the approved medium-term expenditure framework and fiscal strategy paper for 2024-2026 and what we should expect for 2025-2027.

“Additionally, we will examine shortfalls in NMPCL revenue remittances, focusing on key areas such as foreign and domestic excess crude accounts, the signature bonus accounts, NMPCL cash call account and any outstanding or remitted revenue linked to under-recoveries.

“This meeting underscores our commitment to transparency, accountability and the responsible management of our national resources.

“I am confident that with the collaboration of the Ministry of Finance under the able leadership of the coordinating Minister of the Economy, the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, the Central Bank of Nigeria and Revenue Mobilization and Physical Commission and other critical stakeholders present here, we will identify solutions and ensure that due process are upheld for the benefit of our economy and the Nigerian people.”

Aside the Finance Minister, the Group Executive Officer (GCEO) of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), Mele Kyari, the Director General of Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, representatives of Governor of the Central Bank also attended the session which was later joined by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio while in closed door.