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Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Cool FM is the Official FM Radio Station of "Girl Rising" In Nigeria
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Monday, October 7, 2013
Mo Abudu Makes the 25 Most Powerful Women in Global TV
The influential Hollywood Reporter called Africa's answer to Oprah Winfrey. And named Mosunmola Abudu among Hollywood Reporter's MIPCOM's 25 Most Powerful Women in Global TV.
"EbonyLife TV celebrates style and success while motivating its audiences to dream and dream big," said Ms. Abudu.
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Friday, October 4, 2013
Sudan and Spain Together for the Creation of the First Image for the FCAT
A Spanish production company captures the process of creation of the FCAT poster made by the Sudanese painter Dar Al Naim Mubarak Carmona
Dar Al Naim Mubarak Carmona.
Cordoba, 4th October 2013. The Sudanese-Spanish artist Dar Al Naim Mubarak Carmona has featured the first image of the tenth anniversary of the African Film Festival of Cordoba, contributing with her painting to the creation of the poster.
Cordoba, 4th October 2013. The Sudanese-Spanish artist Dar Al Naim Mubarak Carmona has featured the first image of the tenth anniversary of the African Film Festival of Cordoba, contributing with her painting to the creation of the poster.
The
10th African Film Festival of Cordoba will start in a week with over
66 screenings, filmmakers and producers invited for round tables, conferences
and the FCAT Espacio Profesional, as well as an exhibition that has travelled
from Malaga to Gorée Island and now, to Cordoba, and a wide range of parallel
activities. From the 11th to the 19th of October, Cordoba
will travel to our neighbouring continent, and even to the Middle East, through
the screen.
The
artist Dar Al Naim Mubarak, originally from Khartoum (Sudan), but with a
multicultural professional and personal career, has been the one responsible
for the creation of the image of the poster of the festival, filmed by Julio
Castaño, from Yunaki Films, and whose Director of Photography has been the
graphic designer of the FCAT, José Wela.
.jpg)
Dar Al Naim Mubarak Carmona and Mane Cisneros (FCAT Director).
“I
see Africa as a unit, as a very smart figure that one can recognise very
easily”, this plastic artist highlights, while pointing out the nuances of her
statement. “We, as Africans, are a very big community, and thus, very
different, in fact, we are all different”. During the process of creation of
the poster, Dar Al Naiam never lost sight of audiences, and decided to
represent this diversity through a design which is rich in details, sizes and
shapes, all of them surrounded by a corporal unit that could be seen as ‘Mama
Africa’. However, it is difficult to determine whether this shape corresponds
to a female or a male body. The artist seems to be hence incorporating man in
the process of emancipation of women. This is not just a common feature in
films made by female eyes, but also, by men directors such the Senegalese Ousmane Sembène or Cheick Oumar Sissoko. In fact, the painter herself
has not described the figure as a man or woman so far. Instead she refers to it
as a ‘unique and static figure, with patterns and details that induce some
movement’.
For Yunaki Films, it has been a daunting
challenge to represent the level of detail and the laborious method of Dar Al
Naim’s work. Yet this challenge has been successfully met, since the video,
enriched by Rasha’s music – a Sudanese artist coming from a numerous family of
artists and intellectuals – manages to portrays the environment of creation of
the artist, and anticipates the spirit of the festival, where the boundaries
between Córdoba, Africa and the Arab World melt, reminding us of a very rich
and multicultural historic legacy.
Dar Al Naim, who studied in Oxford and
has exhibited in that city, as well as in London and Khartoum, among others,
has postponed her trip back to Khartoum in order to be with us during the festival. The opening ceremony will enjoy her
participation, where she will present the awards to the winners of the children’s
painting competition based on the painting that she designed for the FCAT
poster.
VIDEO OF THE CREATION OF THE POSTER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-imOsTRj_ao
International Media
Office:
Estrella Sendra
Tel.: +34 667 39 26 13
DOWNLOADS:
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Thursday, October 3, 2013
IFC Co-sponsors Conference to Facilitate Investment in Nigeria Power Sector
IFC Co-sponsors Conference to Facilitate Investment in Nigeria Power Sector
WASHINGTON, 1 October 2013 / PRNewswire Africa / - IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, in partnership with EnergyNet Limited and key stakeholders, today announced that it will host the Power Investors Summit on October 2-4. The event, being held at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos, is part of a broader effort to facilitate investments in the power sector in Nigeria.
The Power Investors Summit will provide a platform for international project sponsors and other interested parties to explore investment opportunities. These include projects ranging from gas-to-power, infrastructure, renewable energy and independent power producers (IPPs), which are set to transform Nigeria's power sector as a result of the on-going power sector reforms.
Bernard Sheahan, Director, IFC Infrastructure and Natural Resources, said “IFC is supporting the Power Investors Summit to help the Nigerian government showcase the positive sector reforms achieved. The Nigerian government is putting the right ingredients together for a sustainable power sector, making this the right time to crowd in private sector investment to solidify and put the sector on a long term path”
Simon Gosling, Managing Director of EnergyNet, said “Considerable developments in Nigeria's power sector seem to strengthen the business case for private investors. All of the international project developers that we are working with are talking about Nigeria. It is certainly the most exciting investment destination right now!”
Recently IFC announced plans to support the Nigeria power sector, through the Energy Business Plan. That plan outlines the World Bank Group's support for the addition of up to 1,500mw to the national power grid through support to a number of greenfield IPPs that should help improve electricity supply for 8.0 million households. This is in addition to potential investments in the newly privatized distribution companies, and support to gas production and infrastructure projects.
Under the Energy Business Plan, each World Bank Group institution (IFC, The World Bank, and MIGA) will leverage their competencies and products to provide solutions to projects that encourage their viability and contribute to the sustainability of the power sector. IFC will provide project structuring and investments along with tailor-made packages of risk mitigation instruments that include World Bank Partial Risk Guarantees and MIGA political risk insurance. These interventions will develop power generation, distribution and gas supply.
SOURCE International Finance Corporation (IFC)
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Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Famous Nigerian Filmmaker Newton Aduaka To Feature at 10th African Film Festival of Cordoba-FCAT
Newton Aduaka the famous Nigerian born filmmaker and the first and only Nigerian filmmaker so far to win the highly coveted Golden Yennenga Stallion (Grand Prize) Panafrican Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO) and other notable prizes is the only Nigerian filmmaker to be featured at the 10th African Film Festival of Cordoba-FCAT in Spain from 11th to the 19th of October. His latest feature length film "One Man’s Show" is a must see at the film festival that will screen 66 films selected from 31 different countries and hosting over 50 filmmakers and producers that would be happy to be interviewed.
Aduaka is famous for his multiple award winning films including "On the edge", the best short film at the 8th African Film Festival of Milan in 1998 and at FESPACO 1999. His first feature film, "Rage" became the first wholly independently financed film by a black filmmaker in the history of British cinema to be released at theaters in the UK and it won several awards at film festivals. His next major success was "Ezra", which the California Newsreel described as the first film to give an African perspective on the disturbing phenomenon of abducting child soldiers into the continent's recent civil wars. "Ezra" had a successful world premiere at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival and screened "Not Selected" in Critics' Week at Cannes and won numerous awards, including the Golden Yennenga Stallion (Grand Prize) at the 2007 FESPACO.
Nigerians Report Online and The Nation newspapers are the only Nigerian news media channels covering the film festival.
The African Film Festival of Cordoba-FCAT has been challenging the widespread stereotypical images of the continent for a decade now, placing itself as the only festival in Spain showcasing these cinemas. In order to better represent the multicultural reality of these countries, the programme includes over 60 films made in 24 different countries, not just by Africans in the continent but also, in the diaspora, as well as those made by Europeans that are approaching African narratives.
After eight years in Tarifa (Cadiz), the festival – organised by the NGO Al Tarab, and sponsored by the City Council of Cordoba- moved to this Caliphal city, whose streets reveal an Arab heritage that emerged as the best space to welcome also film titles from the Middle East. In this 10th edition, Cordoba cements its place as the city hosting this unique platform in Spain showcasing African and Middle Eastern cinemas. During these nine days, Cordoba will be able to walk on Africa and the Arab world, rekindling indeed a heritage that is particularly notorious in Andalusia.
For more details, contact:
fcat@fcat.es
Calle Fresa, 5 local
41002 Sevilla España
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Halal Institute, Fully Involved in the FCAT
Halal Institute, fully involved in the FCAT
The entity led by Isabel Romero cements its support to the African Film Festival of Cordoba through its sponsorship
Cordoba, 2nd
October 2013. Halal Institute, the
certification entity of the Halal Guarantee Mark in Spain, joins the 10th
African Film Festival of Cordoba-FCAT not only through its sponsorship, but
also, reinforcing the strategies that both organisations have in the countries
of Mediterranean Africa.
Isabel Romero and Mane Cisneros
The work that Halal Institute carries out – partner of AENOR,
recognised by the main international entities and countries of halal guarantee
in the world – allows over 400 factories and enterprises in Andalusia and Spain
to export their products to over 40 countries practising Islam.
The reason for the support to FCAT Cordoba dovetails with Halal
Institute’s aim, as a promoter of the brand ‘Cordoba Halal’, of claiming
Cordoba’s position in the present, thanks to its historic role in promoting
diversity and tolerance.
In this way, the entity seeks for the cooperation of initiatives
conceived to and from the Muslim World, at an industrial, commercial,
touristic, academic and cultural level. Other than the involvement in FCAT
Cordoba, Halal Institute has also taken part in the activities of Amazig and
Agrópolis Foundation.
This collaboration aims to be representative of the beginning of a
partnership with the festival, in order to, as stated by the Director of Halal
Institute, ‘contribute to the consolidation of links and synergies with our
closest neighbours, from our modest possibilities’.
FCAT Cordoba celebrates its tenth anniversary, even though this is the
second edition at Cordoba. On its first edition last year, FCAT celebrated the
50th anniversary of Algerian cinemas, and this second edition has
welcome many Arab film productions, from North Africa and beyond. The festival
will take place from the 11th to the 19th of October,
with the screening of over 66 films from 31 countries, as well as a wide range
of activities, such as FCAT Espacio Profesional, the Film Criticism Workshop
and the storyteller for children.
Medios internacionales:
Estrella Sendra
0034 667392613
Festival de Cine Africano de Córdoba-FCAT 2013
www.fcat.es
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Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Nigeria Will Not Break Up in 2014 or 2015- Clerics Tells Biafra, Oduduwa, Ogoni Separatists
Nigeria Will Not Break Up in 2014 or 2015- Clerics Tells Biafra, Oduduwa, Ogoni Separatists
~ By Obinna Akukwe
Clergymen from different denominations under the aegis of Nigeria Prayer Project gathered at the National Christian Centre, Abuja on the eve of Nigeria’s 53rd independence day celebrations and eve of 100 years of the nation’s forced amalgamation, to declare the counsel of God that Nigeria will not break up either in 2014 or 2015 as predicted.
The occasion was a night vigil to usher the nation into its centenary year and prophetically declare the counsel of God concerning Nigeria. The clerics unanimously agreed that the proponents of break-up of Nigeria will fail as the nation is yet to fulfill its prophetic agenda.
In the sermon delivered at the occasion, the President of Gethsemane Prayer Ministry, Ibadan, Dr Moses Aransiola declared that “the strength of Nigeria is in its present geographical make up and unity.” According to the cleric BIG UNITED Nigeria is better than a little Odua Republic. a little Biafra Republic, a little Ogoni Republic, or a little Arewa Republic”. Dr Aransiola stated further that what Nigeria needed at the moment is “a united spirit like the United States of America and United Kingdom. Such an entity can become an African Super Power like Britain and America”
Declaring Gods counsel about Nigeria, Dr Aransiola said that God has been making known his prophetic agenda for Nigeria to his servants and prophets for many years now at different gatherings both within and outside Nigeria. Some foreigners who received prophetic words for Nigeria include late Pa S.G. Elton (England). Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke (Germany), Prophetess Cindy Jacobs (America), Robert liardon and Rohan Smith (Americans) among others.
According to him, some of Gods prophetic declarations for Nigeria include;
1. Nigeria is my battle axe and weapon of war
2. Out of this nation shall men and women arise who will be my chosen vessels to bring millions to me
3. Nigeria shall fulfill my counsel for the black race, the race that has been despised and enslaved.
4. I will visit and purify my church in Nigeria so that she may fulfill my purpose
5. I will raise Daniels and Josephs who will know how to build, plant, preserve and conserve Nigeria.
6. Son of Man say unto Nigeria and Nigerians ; though you have passed through the valleys of the shadow of death and shall yet pass through the valley of the shadow of death, thus saith the Lord, you shall not die but you shall live.
He described break-up proponents as fatalists and posited that Christianity is about recovery and redemption and not destruction.
Pastor Offodile Nzimiro, the new vision co-ordinator of Throne Room Ministries, Kafanchan, who represented Emmanuel Kure, led the congregation in the blowing of the chauffeur of liberation. Seven chauffeur was blown seven times signifying liberation of the nation while the covenant of salt and water was enacted for the nation signifying that anything that has held the nation backward for ninety nine years shall be healed by the mystery of salt and water according to how Prophet Elisha healed the land of destruction at the urging of the prophets.
The service started by 7pm and ended around 1.30 am but between the hours of 11.55-12.55 an interval of ten minutes, there was unusual divine presence inside the auditorium and the expectant congregation went into wild jubilation before the cloud lifted.
Earlier during the service the address of Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor on the state of the nation was read on his behalf. Pastor Austin Ukachi, Dr Emeka Nwankpa and Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon prayed for the nation.
Addressing news men after the occasion Apostle Martins Atanda of Zion World Prayer and Missions, Sokoto asked clergymen to shun corruption and lead in the move to emancipate Nigeria. Rev Obinna Akukwe, a human rights activist, observed that the unusual presence of God just before and after midnight at the event is a sign that God has not abandoned Nigeria and that divinity has come to either bless, judge or curse the enemies of Nigeria and asked politicians and looters to beware of judgement ..
In a similar vein the Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Abuja, Paul Enenche has decried the decay in the university educational system in Nigeria. Speaking at the October 1st service, Enenche told the congregation that the decay is such that Ghanaian Medical Graduates can practice in Europe without further examinations while their Nigerian counterparts have to write examinations and rigorous tests before being certified to practice overseas. He led the congregation to bind the spirits plaguing the education sector and also prayed for the strengthening of the naira, lamenting that the once prestigious national currency has been grossly devalued.
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President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan's Speech On Nigeria's 53rd Independence Anniversary
His Excellency, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR On the Occasion of Nigeria's 53rd Independence Anniversary.
Tuesday 1st October, 2013
FELLOW NIGERIANS,
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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;
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
I wish you all a very happy 53rd Independence Celebration.
I thank you.
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Tuesday 1st October, 2013
FELLOW NIGERIANS,
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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;
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
I wish you all a very happy 53rd Independence Celebration.
I thank you.
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October 1: From the Past to the Present and A Greater Future
Here is the First Official Trailer of the movie 'October 1'. This is an African story told from African's perspective. Please click 'LIKE' if you think it deserves to fly. Long live Nigeria, Long live Africa, long live the world.
SYNOPSIS It's September 1960, and with Nigeria on the verge of independence from British colonial rule, a northern Nigerian Police Detective, DAN WAZIRI, is urgently despatched by the Colonial Government to the trading post town of Akote in the Western Region of Nigeria to solve a series of female murders that have struck horror in the hearts and minds of the local community. On getting to Akote, more murders are committed, and with local tension high and volatile, Waziri has a race on his hands to solve the case before even more local women are killed..
~ Kunle Afolayan
Happy 53rd Independence Anniversary to all Nigerians!
Keep the flag flying higher and higher!
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SYNOPSIS It's September 1960, and with Nigeria on the verge of independence from British colonial rule, a northern Nigerian Police Detective, DAN WAZIRI, is urgently despatched by the Colonial Government to the trading post town of Akote in the Western Region of Nigeria to solve a series of female murders that have struck horror in the hearts and minds of the local community. On getting to Akote, more murders are committed, and with local tension high and volatile, Waziri has a race on his hands to solve the case before even more local women are killed..
~ Kunle Afolayan
Happy 53rd Independence Anniversary to all Nigerians!
God Bless Nigeria!
God Bless Nigeria!
Keep the flag flying higher and higher!
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Saturday, September 28, 2013
Miss Philippines Wins 2013 Miss World Pageant in Indonesia
Miss Philippines Megan Young has been crowned Miss World 2013 on Saturday in Bali, Indonesia.
Megan Lynne Young
The event was held under tight security, because the global beauty pageant was threatened by fanatical Muslims who wanted to disrupt the event for violating the Islamic ethics of the world's most populous Muslim country. The radical Islam Defenders Front marched in public protests against holding the pageant in Indonesia and forced the organizers to move the event from a venue outside Jakarta to the predominantly Hindu Island of Nusa Dua in southern Bali.
The 23-year-old U.S.-born beauty queen studying digital film was overwhelmed with emotion as she accepted the crown from her predecessor, Wenxia Yu of China and promised to "be the best Miss World ever".
Marine Lorphelin, a 20-year-old medical student from France was the first runner-up and Miss Ghana Carranzar Naa Okailey Shooter, 23, also a medical student was the second runner-up.
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The event was held under tight security, because the global beauty pageant was threatened by fanatical Muslims who wanted to disrupt the event for violating the Islamic ethics of the world's most populous Muslim country. The radical Islam Defenders Front marched in public protests against holding the pageant in Indonesia and forced the organizers to move the event from a venue outside Jakarta to the predominantly Hindu Island of Nusa Dua in southern Bali.
The 23-year-old U.S.-born beauty queen studying digital film was overwhelmed with emotion as she accepted the crown from her predecessor, Wenxia Yu of China and promised to "be the best Miss World ever".
Marine Lorphelin, a 20-year-old medical student from France was the first runner-up and Miss Ghana Carranzar Naa Okailey Shooter, 23, also a medical student was the second runner-up.
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