How FirstBank Salary Account is Built to Solves Money Problems
“There is always a lot to spend money on, and sometimes the bills can’t wait for the salary to be paid” Tope complained when his wife informed him that they had run out of cooking gas and had to refill.
He had just moved to a new location with his family and the bills seemed to be coming at such speed that he could hardly keep up. Barely three weeks in the new apartment, the electricity bill had arrived.
The new apartment was bigger than the last and their two double-seater cushions left too much space vacant in the seating room. They needed to get a couple more furniture to fill the space. His wife had not stopped reminding him of the car he promised to get, in order to ease mobility for the family.
Everyone has been a Tope at some point in time, and that is why everyone needs a financial partner like FirstBank, Nigeria’s premier and leading financial services brand. FirstBank offers a variety of loan products that can help you ease off pressure as you work towards meeting pressing and urgent needs, as well as medium term goals.
FirstAdvance is a digital product tailored for Salary Account holders, who have an urgent cash need and would want to access salary advance from the bank. If you have held a salary account with FirstBank for up to two months, you can access 50% of your monthly net salary and as much as half a million naira (N500,000).
A physical visit to the bank branch is not required as you can access it via the FirstMobile (FirstBank’s Mobile banking app) and USSD channels. To access the service via USSD, dial *894*11# from the phone number linked with your FirstBank account. This has proved to be the solution for many people while emergencies arise before pay day. There is no point in waiting for month end before you can take on those pressing financial obligations.
FirstCredit is another digital product designed to cater for the non-salaried individuals. All that is required is for your account to have been active and transacting in FirstBank for six months or more to access FirstCredit. It provides customers with quick and easy access to loans to fund urgent transactions. You do not need a smart phone or a physical visit to the bank to get this done as well. This credit facility can be accessed using a mobile phone and the USSD banking code, *894*11#. You can access as much as N300,000 to be repaid within 30 days.
No physical documentation or collateral is required, neither do you need a physical visit to the bank to access both loans. Imagine the confidence that comes with sorting out your bills within minutes and without having to wait till month end.
Salary accounts should do more than receiving your monthly pay from your employer. It should be instrumental in making your day-to-day living easier, and this is what having your salary account with FirstBank can achieve for you. You can get a Personal Loan Against Salary (PLAS) if you have a a longer-term project at hand or investments to make. It may be paying school fees for your kids, acquiring assets or renovating your properties, paying rent, taking professional examinations. Customer who qualify can access Up to N50 million based on their net monthly income and rates are competitive, while offering long term and flexible repayments up to 48 months tenor.
Despite all these benefits and ease in access to loans, it literarily costs nothing to open a FirstBank Salary Account. Zero opening balance, Zero minimum daily operating balance, Zero account maintenance charge, plus you even get your first debit card issued for free.
Truly, it is always “YOU FIRST” from FirstBank.
ENABLING DREAMS WITH FIRSTBANK ‘DECEMBER IS A VYBE’
One of the most fascinating quotes of popular British business magnate and author, Sir Richard Brandson is that “A great business is simply an idea to make other people’s lives better.” This vital nugget aligns with a global view that a critical element of successful brands is the ability to beyond functional products benefits become a visible partner in customers lives, enabling them live better and happier, aim higher and achieve their dreams.
For businesses, this means seeing beyond financial gains into becoming a true ally and partner who make life worth living. This is a core hallmark of the few enduring global brands and FirstBank appears focused on towing the path.
Beyond business promotion and marketing engagements solely for commercial value, the premier bank in its 127th year is assisting Nigerians to live happier and create awesome memories of good time with cherished ones through some cool initiatives.
Globally, December heralds the holiday season during which people love to celebrate, unwind and relax with loved ones. Though checkered by Covid-19 disruptions in 2020, FirstBank is giving a new expression and meaning to ‘December in Nigeria’ with the high-octane and life enriching #FirstBankIssaVybe, #DecemberIssaVybe campaign.
The campaign which started in 2018 is already generating ripples across the cities with Nigerians across ages anticipating the new trick FirstBank will pull out from the hat this year.
Through the annual FirstBankIssaVybe campaign, FirstBank sponsors of an array of the hottest and coolest entertainment platforms across music, fashion and arts during the month of December, with massive ticket giveaways to premium events.
The goal is to create enthralling and memorable experience for customers in the Yuletide season as they bond with family and friends, whilst connecting with their favourite superstars.
Commenting with much enthusiasm on the year-end campaign, global head marketing and corporate communication of FirstBank, Folake Ani-Mumuney says it’s simply FirstBank creating a ‘Wow December to Remember’ experience for all as a bank for all generations.
For her, #FirstBankIssaVybe offers a variety performance; FirstBank is not just considering financial well-being but also the entire well-being for customers. That is why it is enabling opportunities for families to come together to celebrate and enjoy premium concerts, plays, fashion and food, and gave out over 500 mostly VIP tickets per campaign, which cost from N15,000 to N50,000.
“We are delighted with our achievements and consider the yuletide a good way of identifying with our customers and appreciating their support. We want them to have the best of fun through this period. Through different expressions, we strive to support our heritage; the value systems we believe in and create opportunities for families to bond across generations.
“The carefully curated experiences speak to our ethos, what we believe in and what Nigerians would appreciate. We do not just concentrate like some other brands on specific areas, or just one name; we are true enablers across the raft, and offered variety. We also use the opportunity to further deepen support for arts and job creation.
“We also spread the program across the nation with sponsorship of Igue Festival in Edo State, and Calabar Carnival in Cross River State. With our partners, #DecemberIssaVybe, we curate across the country as a whole. We supported Waka the Musical in 2017 which was also taken to Abuja in 2018,” she noted.
Meanwhile, the campaign has seen customers treated to fantastic experience in previous editions and many are looking forward to the 2021 edition. From the exciting Alternative Sound 4.0, held at Terra Culture on 5 December, 2019 to the memorable Cardi B live in Lagos by Livespot Concert on 7 December 2019 and the unforgettable “An Evening with FBNHoldings” held on 13 December, 2019 to the pleasure overload of Island Block Party at Oniru Lagos on 14 December, lucky customers and followers of the Bank’s social media handles were given free tickets to have loads of fun!
Also, in the bouquet of fun extravaganza was Teni – The Billionaire Experience musical concert held at Eko Hotel on Monday, 16 December 2019 which had many customers thrilled to the finest of tunes by the Billionaire crooner and other guest artistes present. The annual Nativeland music festival at Muri Okunola Park was another event for the yuletide which has since its inauguration in 2016, had top class performances by A-lists artistes.
Youth and teenage fashion lovers were not left out; as with Street Souk, they had a feel of current trends and creativity in the fashion industry. The event held on 18 December 2019. Keen on getting exposed to the best and latest designs, wears and fabrics in fashion, then the African Fashion Week Nigeria was another port of call. The event which held 20 – 21 December, 2019 attracted leading players in the fashion industry and deepened the fashion appetite and interest of participants.
Building into Christmas was Flytime Rhythm Unplugged, starting on 20 December at the Eko Hotel and Suites. The 5-day music festival event had performances of leading and top artistes in the country. Olamide, Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, MI, Ycee, Patoranking, Mayorkun, Teni, Zlatan, Joeboy, Fireboy, B Red, Tolani, Jeff Akoh, Oluwadamilola thrilled fun lovers to the best of tunes topping charts not just in Nigeria but the continent. On the wheels of steel was DJ Neptune, DJ Consequence, DJ Obi, and DJ Cuppy.
Kizz Daniel’s Toro concert on 26 December 2019 and Tu Face’s musical show on 28 December built up to the wrap-up of the list of December events with Future, the American trap music sensation scheduled to perform live in Lagos. The Future Live in Concert held 29 December 2019 at the Eko hotel. The 80s boy band, New Edition performance at the FlyTime Music Festival in Lagos was also electrifying with Burna Boy Live, Davido Live and many more in action!
For plays, the campaign has featured sponsorships of Moremi and Oba Eshugbayi play which focused on highlighted history of Lagos: the struggle over water tax imposed by the British on the people of Lagos and the expulsion of Oba Esugbayi, who stood against the tax, to Abeokuta. The play was from the stable of Joseph Edgar of the iconic Duke of Shomolu Production.
Two lucky fans, Tina Ediale and Timilehin Anibaba, amongst others got to see their favourite star Davido Live in Concert; another winner, Azeez Animashaun couldn’t believe his luck when he got a VIP Rhythm Unplugged ticket while some got special treat watching ace actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde as Esumirin in Moremi The Musical.
Some social media followers also scored invitation to parties including Island Block Party, All Black Everything; conferences Golas Grit Grind 2.0; festivals: Native Land, Plamwine Festival; and pop up sales: Mente de Moda.
The FirstBank #DecemberIssaVybe and #FirstBankIssaVybe giveaway fest is again set to reward old, new and potential customers with tickets to premium events around Lagos.
And Yes, we know you want to attend these events and yes you can. Just follow FirstBank on any of its social media pages – Facebook: First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Instagram: @firstbanknigeria, and Twitter: @firstbankngr – look out for the posts announcing the giveaway and follow instructions to experience maximum party #vybes this season.
Dr Lanre Teriba (Atorise) Releases New Song…Warns Road Users
Inspirational Singer Dr. Olalanrewaju AFOLABI Teriba aka Atorise needs no introduction in the music industry with over 21 years of music performance experience under his belt.
In his habit the wonderful Singer has dropped another breathtaking song for the listening pleasure of his teaming fans. The musician who is the Chief Executive Officer of LTEE Records and also the convener of Ori Oke Sioni in his home town in Isara Remo in Ogun state is known for his December treat and his latest work is a sweet one.
The man whose first Album in 1999 titled ATORISE (REFORMER) was a massive hit has yearly been churning out hit after hit and the latest musical work is nothing short of that standard.
The new work, titled ENIYAN WOJU was officially released on the 1st of December on all digital stores all over the world for the yuletide season and beyond.
Reflecting on the new work, Atorise described it as one of the wonders of God aside the wonder of keeping him and seeing him through this wonderful year from January 1st till this day, which he sees as wonder and blessing from God Almighty.
He also appreciates friends, Fans and Family who stood by him through thick and thin even as he declared God’s blessings on all.
He also admonishes all road users and travelers this season to obey the rule and regulations of the highway so everybody can all have a Wonderful Christmas and New year celebrations.
UBA Group Dominates the 2021 Banker Awards, Wins ‘African Bank of the Year’
Breaks the Banker Magazine Record as it wins Best Bank in Nigeria and 12 of Its Subsidiaries
Africa’s global bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc yet again, reaffirms its leadership position across Africa, as the bank has been globally recognised as the African Bank of the year 2021 by the Banker Magazine, a leading global finance news publication published by the Financial Times of London.
UBA’s solid financial performance, its excellent service delivery to customers and its continuous role of facilitating rapid economic growth across the African continent were some of the reasons that led to the bank being named best bank in 12 of its African subsidiaries and in Nigeria. UBA Nigeria Plc, UBA Benin, UBA Burkina Faso, UBA Cameroon, UBA Chad, UBA Congo Brazzaville, UBA Cote D’Ivoire, UBA Gabon, UBA Guinea, UBA Liberia, UBA Senegal, UBA Sierra Leone and UBA Zambia all came out top as the best banks in their respective countries
This will not be a first for UBA Group. In 2020, six of its subsidiaries in Benin, Cote D’Ivoire, Chad, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Zambia were winners of the Best Bank award. This year, the UBA Group is breaking a record with its exceptional wins as African Bank of the Year and Bank of the year in 13 countries. The total 14 awards makes it the first time ever in the history of the almost 100 years of The banker, that any banking group will be clinching as many as 14 wins in a single year.
At the Virtual award ceremony which was held on December 1st 2021, the Middle East and Africa Editor for The Banker, John Everington, explained at the event that a rigorous and highly analytical process is made annually to reach the decision for each Bank of the Year award and the institution’s reputation for independence, authority and integrity is thoroughly applied to each submission.
“While several African banks impressed the judges this year, there was no doubt as to the worthiest recipient of the Bank of the Year for Africa – UBA Group – a clear winner across a wide range of criteria. UBA has performed impressively across its footprint with a strong financial performance across most of its markets,” Everington said.
UBA’s Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Kennedy Uzoka, who expressed delight over the recognition from The Banker stated “Like I always say, at UBA, we must be doing something right. Winning 14 total awards in13 subsidiaries and the Bank of the Year on the African continent is a big achievement.’
Continuing, Uzoka said, “The recognitions come as a reassurance that we are on track in consolidating our leadership position in Africa, as we continue to create superior value for all our stakeholders. We have our millions of customers across the globe and our many thousands of staff to thank for this. They are the very reason why we keep winning’
Since1926, the Bank of the Year awards has been celebrating the best of global banking and is regarded as the industry standard for banking excellence. The 2021 edition highlights those institutions that have outshone their peers in terms of performance, strategic initiatives and response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Banker Magazine is a publication of the Financial Times – a leading global finance news publication which has been in existence since 1888. The Banker magazine is the definitive reference in international banking for high level decision makers.
United Bank for Africa Plc is a leading Pan-African financial institution, offering banking services to more than twenty-five million customers, across over 1,000 business offices and customer touch points, in 20 African countries.
With presence in the United States of America, the United Kingdom and France, UBA is connecting people and businesses across Africa through retail; commercial and corporate banking; innovative cross-border payments and remittances; trade finance and ancillary banking services.
Lagos 2022 Budget Scales Second Reading As Committees Begin Work
The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on Tuesday committed the 2022 Appropriation Bill of the State to a joint committee on Finance and Economic Planning and Budget after deliberations by members.
Recall that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, last Wednesday presented to the Assembly a budget size of ₦1,388,285,459,990.51 for the year 2022.
As the lawmakers read the bill for a second time, many of them commended the Governor for allocating 59 percent of the proposed appropriation to capital expenditure with some saying it would further bring the dividends of democracy to the residents of the State.
Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Sanai Agunbiade, said the allocation to capital expenditure proposes that more hands would be engaged within the year as the government develops more infrastructure.
“If this budget is well funded and monitored properly, democratic dividends would be felt more,” he said.
In his contribution, Hon. Temitope Adewale urged that the revenue generation net of the state should be widened with lesser emphasis on borrowing.
On his part, Hon. Fatai Mojeed, urged that while considering the bill, there should be consideration for the microeconomic indices of the State like its Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
He commended the Governor for allocating 23 percent of the budget to education but raised concerns over what he called an overbloated personnel cost in the Ministry of Establishment.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, Hon. Rotimi Olowo, noted that some of the MDAs performed woefully in 2021 adding that there was need for some of the revenue-generating institutions of the government to be rejigged.
He also suggested that the government create more vocational centres for the youth while advising against excessive borrowing.
Speaking on the budget, the Chairman of the Committee on Economic Planning and Budget, Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu, suggested that the House approves only what is feasible and that if the state needs more, it could make a recourse to the Assembly.
Others who spoke included Hon. Setonji David, who wants the fiscal instruments of the budget to be spelt out properly at the committee stages of defence, Hon. Oluyinka Ogundimu, who advocated for a realistic budget, Hon. Adedamola Richard Kasunmu, and Hon. Mojisola Alli-Macaulay, who urged the government to consider vulnerable women and children.
Meanwhile, the House, at the sitting, passed the bills to amend the Lagos State pension reforms law and that which amends the public office holders (payment of pensions) law.
Ecobank Nigeria to Sustain SMEs Support, Grow Agency Banking Network In 2022
Managing Director/Regional Executive, Ecobank Nigeria, Patrick Akinwuntan; Managing Director, Wema Bank, Ademola Adebise; Deputy Governor, Financial Systems Stability, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mrs. Aishah Ahmad; Managing Director, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Kennedy Uzoka and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC), Chizor Malize at the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) 2021 Dinner held in Lagos at the weekend
Managing Director/Regional Executive, Ecobank Nigeria, Patrick Akinwuntan has said the bank will continue to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), take banking to every Nigerian through its agency banking network. The bank’s digital services will also support industries that focus on exports such as agriculture and manufacturing in 2022. Akinwuntan, who was speaking on the sideline of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) 56th Annual Bankers Dinner in Lagos said Ecobank is well positioned to support the various productive sectors of the economy to make greater impact in the country.
More so, we are a huge player in AfCFTA to assist in making Nigerian entrepreneurs become Pan African multinationals. As Nigerians, we must tell our story; Nigeria is the largest economy in Africa and as at today, Africa provides the best investment opportunities globally, we should turn our concerns to opportunities. As the country increases its exports, it will improve foreign exchange earnings, widen employment base, further support industries and a more stable Gross Domestic Product (GDP)” he advised.
Mr. Akinwuntan also called for a more stable environment devoid of insecurity as a prelude to ensuring an improved production and return Nigeria back from a consuming nation. Stating that a steady growth of employable youths is critical for Nigeria’s economy to improve her production level. He disclosed that there are over 40 million SMEs in the country, assuring that the banks will continue to support the productive sector and entrepreneurial young people and small businesses to make greater impact on the nation’s economy.
FIRSTBANK HOLDS NON-OIL EXPORT WEBINAR SERIES, CREATES AWARENESS OF THE BANK’S EXPORT SOLUTIONS
FirstBank of Nigeria Limited, Nigeria’s premier and leading financial inclusion services provider, has announced the convening of its non-oil export webinar series. The Event is centered on deliberating opportunities that will enhance the country’s expansion of its drive towards diversifying the national economy, thereby reducing the reliance of oil as a mainstay of the country’s revenue.
The first series of the virtual event is scheduled for 10am on Tuesday, 30th November 2021 via Zoom meeting. To register and be part of this transformational knowledge session, click on this link-https://www.firstbanknigeria.com/business/non-oil-export/ . Registration is Free!!
The event is themed “Building Sustainable Non-Oil Export in Nigeria; Harnessing Opportunities within the AfCFTA Treaty & Agro Commodities” and will have the attendance of Mr. Segun Awolowo MD/CEO, Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC); Dr Biodun Adedipe, Founder and Chief Consultant of B. Adedipe Associates Limited (BAA Consult) amongst others, as guest speakers.
The FirstBank webinar series aims to facilitate sustainable exports as well as guide participants on ways of navigating the hurdles and challenges of exports in Nigeria. The webinar will explore market and economic trends, unique export opportunities and potentials within the non-oil export industry across the geopolitical zones in the country.
The importance of exports in Nigeria remains a front burner conversation by individuals and organisations as it provides a means of increasing the markets for producers, and an opportunity to attract the much needed foreign exchange earnings to boost the national economy, which is critical to expanding its Gross Domestic Products.
Speaking on the event, FirstBank Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, Folake Ani-Mumuney said: “in recent years, the country has witnessed increased activities by the government towards diversifying the economy, thereby boosting the export potentials of the country – beyond the contribution of crude oil – which has been the mainstay of the national economy for many decades.
Our forthcoming Non-oil Webinar series will expand discussions that are crucial to the growth of Nigeria’s export potentials as we unlock numerous opportunities that will promote the economic diversification drive of the government which is essential to the continued growth of the national economy, especially with the current business challenges posed by the pandemic.”
Prophet Joshua Iginla celebrates Champion’s 15th Anniversary With Car, cash gifts to pastors and Members
It was signs, wonders and miracles galore as Prophet Joshua Iginla led Champions Royal Assembly Church celebrated her 15th anniversary with exotic car and cash gifts worth millions to pastors and deserving workers in the ministry.
The epoch making anniversary inside the 80,000 seaters auditorium was a week long celebration which began with school of the prophets programme, international women’s conference ,and the international ministers and leadership conference. And the theme was greater glory. Of a truth, diverse miracles and deliverance were wrought through his servant with prophetic conformations.
The peak of the power packed event was the anniversary celebrations which drew partners and participants from across the world. In the process, the philanthropic prophet Joshua Iginla dazzled some of his ministers and workers when he gave them awards which comes with car and cash gifts.
Pastor Ekene won the best evangelist of the year 2021 and was blessed with a new exotic car and a cash gift of N500,000. Pastor Bright emerged second best performing pastor with a gift of 400k.
And the third pastor was the pastor from Minna branch, pastor Femi jakes who won 300k, while Pastor Osi from America won the best international pastor with a 1000 dollars.
Interestingly, the Sons of the prophet and daughters of the prophet who composed award winning birthday songs for him during his birthday won the best group artistes of the year with 500k each making one million.
The best male artiste was bro Sunday Onaja with 500k. And the best female artists of the year was the choir mistress with a gift of 500k while the best producer goes to the choir master of that ministry know as mr make it happen. He was given the award of excellence with the sum of 500k.
UBA Foundation Projects Message of Hope, Encouragement as Uzoka lights up the Foundation’s Garden Ahead of the Yuletide
Set to Give Back at Its Annual Food Bank
l-r: Group Head, Customer Fulfilment Centre(CFC), United Bank for Africa Plc, Prince Ayewoh; Group Head, Personal Banking and Retail Liabilities, Ogechi Altraide; Deputy Managing Director, Oliver Alawuba; Group Managing Director/CEO, United Bank for Africa Plc, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka; Executive Director, Chiugo Ndubisi; UBA Foundation, Bola Atta; Head, Commercial and Corporate Banking, Muyiwa Akinyemi; and Head of Operations, Alex Alozie, at the 2021 Christmas and New Year Light Up Ceremony of UBA Foundation, Garden, by UBA Foundation at Marina, Lagos on Friday
Africa’s global bank, United Bank for Africa, through its UBA Foundation has been spreading joy across Africa for many years as they continue to give back to the underpriviledged in the communities in which they operate.
At the UBA Foundation gardens in Lagos where the bank is head quartered, a lights up ceremony was held to mark the start of the festive season. The garden lights were activated by UBA’s Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka who was joined by other key management staff and some customers of the bank.
Uzoka who is also the chairman of the UBA Foundation, emphasised that giving back was the main tenet of the UBA Foundation. He said ‘We have over the years, engaged in various activities aimed at appreciating our host communities all around Africa and especially in countries where we operate and so for us, these lights symbolise hope for the future and all the goodness it will bring into people’s lives.
‘it is hard to believe that we have been in this pandemic for almost two years. People have lost friends and family members and businesses decimated by the effects of the pandemic. There has been a general feeling of hopelessness but our desire is to fill people’s lives with hope once again.’ Continued Uzoka.
The UBA Foundation has been very active in combatting the spread of Covid -19 across Africa as the bank did not waste any time at the start of the pandemic, donating over $14m to its communities across Africa to support the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.
This year, the Foundation will be feeding tens of thousands of people across Africa through its annual Food bank initiative where food, hygiene products and other gifts items are handed over to those who have less, especially during the festive season.
Group Managing Director/CEO, United Bank for Africa Plc, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka; flanked by Executive Director, Chukwuma Nweke; Head of Operations, Alex Alozie; MD-CEO, UBA Foundation, Bola Atta, and other staff members at the 2021 Christmas and New Year Light Up Ceremony of UBA Foundation Garden, at Marina, Lagos on Friday
The CEO, UBA Foundation, Mrs Bola Atta, said that the light up ceremony was important for the Foundation adding: “This goes beyond lighting up the Marina and adorning the streets with beautiful colours. It reminds us as an institution of our promise to continue to touch lives and treat our communities with kindness. We are living in very difficult times and a little gesture to put a smile on even one face, goes a very long way. We should all endeavour to do whatever we can, within our power, to uplift others’
The Lighting Ceremony which observed all necessary Covid-19 protocols was witnessed by members of staff and customers, and featured Christmas carols by UBA’s CFC choir, as well as a guided tour around the beautiful UBA Foundation Garden at the Lagos Marina.
UBA Foundation, the CSR arm of the UBA Group, is committed to the socio-economic betterment of the communities in which the bank operates, focusing on development in the areas of Education, the Environment, Economic Empowerment and other Special Projects.
2022 Budget: Work On Projects To Alleviate Poverty, Empower Lagosians, Obasa Urges Sanwo-Olu
– Speaker calls on Buhari to rejig economy to boost employment
– Says interference of executive in state legislature should be criminalised
The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly Hon Mudashiru Obasa has urged the Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to work more on policies to bring more dividends of democracy to the people of the State.
Obasa gave the advice when the governor visited the Assembly on Wednesday to present the 2022 Budget Of Consolidation put at ₦1,388,285,459,990.51.
Speaking after the presentation by the Governor, Obasa who passed a vote of confidence on Mr. Sanwo-Olu for the achievements of the current administration, said the dividends still need to get to the grassroots.
The Speaker also called on the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari to rejig the economy of Nigeria to reduce unemployment, insecurity and poverty.
He praised the House of Assembly for its pro-people orientation and for constantly supporting the Governor to meet the yearnings of the people of the State.
He said the support the Governor enjoys from the Assembly had reflected in the successes so far achieved by the government
While commending the seven-man judicial panel of inquiry into cases of brutality and human rights violations committed by operatives of the disbanded special anti-robbery squad (SARS) in the state, for completing its task, the Speaker urged Lagosians to remain patient and not stoke controversies while a white paper on the report is being expected.
Below is the full speech by the Speaker:
REMARKS BY RT HON. (DR) MUDASHIRU AJAYI OBASA, SPEAKER, LAGOS STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY, DURING THE PRESENTATION OF THE Y2022 BUDGET BY MR BABAJIDE OLUSOLA SANWO-OLU, GOVERNOR, LAGOS STATE, AT THE ASSEMBLY HALLOWED CHAMBER, ON WEDS, NOV 24, 2021
Ladies and gentlemen,
1. On behalf of my colleagues and our highly dedicated staff, it gives me a great pleasure to heartily welcome you all to this occasion of the formal presentation of the Year 2022 budget by Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Executive Governor of Lagos State.
2. Before anything at all, we cannot but give praise and adoration to the Almighty Allah, the giver and taker of life, the One who reverses the irreversible; for giving us the opportunity to witness another budget presentation.
3. Dear Lagosians, without further ado, we have all listened with rapt attention to how the wealth of our state will be utilized for our common good in Y2022 with the presentation of the budget size: ₦1,388,285,459,990.51 themed: BUDGET OF CONSOLIDATION. This will be the last full year budget to be implemented by this administration. Expectedly, the responsibility is now on the members of this Honourable House to do the needful, by meticulously performing our constitutional duty.
4. Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, permit me to commend your astuteness, courage, forthrightness as well as your determined spirit all geared towards a greater Lagos within the period you have been in office. No doubt, you have maintained a track record of resourceful consistency in the state.
5. Distinguished guests, as you all know, our dear state of Lagos, the Centre of Excellence, has continued to be seen both within and outside our country as the very place where good governance is the norm, which readily explains why our state is home to all Nigerians, having attained the enviable status of a mega city.
6. Here in Lagos State, the three tiers of government: the Legislature, Executive and Judiciary have always been striving to put our people first in all that we do. Despite their distinct status, these government institutions have continued to regularly collaborate to deliver the dividends of democracy and the very best for our dear state and the people. For instance, this House of Assembly is evidently endowed with industrious, brilliant and diligent men and women who are making a difference in their various constituencies.
7. It is, however, pertinent to note that the very cordial relationship existing between this Legislative House and the Executive has not stopped us from performing our constitutionally assigned roles of exercising control over the state’s purse. This has obviously resulted in the First Class position that our dear state has attained in our country today, which makes Lagos the symbol of good governance.
8. It is on the record that while the legislative arm of other states of the country fights the executive, here in Lagos, it is the other way round. This has, indeed, paved way for the establishment of LAHASCOM, career advancement among the legislative staff as well the promotion of same staff to the position of permanent secretary in the state.
9. You will all agree with me that the responsiveness and readiness of this honourable House to pass pro-people and pro-development legislations is on the right course in giving Mr. Governor the much needed enabling environment to perform creditably well to the admiration of our people. This, indeed, is the confirmation that behind every performing Governor there is a pro-active, pro-people and pro-development House of Assembly like ours.
10. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, around this time last year, Governor Sanwo-Olu was here to present the Y2021 Budget, itemising his projections for the ongoing year. Today, with the remarkable support of this House, we are all witnesses to the outstanding performance of the budget as regards infrastructural renewal and wealth creation among other things.
11. That Lagos State is working is more or less an understatement. That notwithstanding, we need to look inward and devise more methods of improving our Internally Generated Revenue beyond the sources identified so far. We, at the same time, need to ensure that the revenues collected are promptly accounted for.
12. While the projections of this administration are being guided by its THEME agenda, we need to further strengthen it to touch the lives of the people. Despite the numerous infrastructural developments going on in the state, the impact is not yet fully getting to all and sundry as it should be. For instance, the traffic issue in the state has become intractable such that we cannot but look for a holistic approach for solution. The lawlessness of the road users is so noticeable and daring. Of course, we need to focus more on the implementation of the law that addresses this ugly situation.
13. It is a known fact that Lagos State has the highest foreign debt profile. Of course, this loan has been the secret behind most of the infrastructural developments we all see all over the state. Nevertheless, I will advise the Executive to focus more on intense projects that will be geared towards alleviating poverty in our society with most of these loans.
14. At the same time, our policies must be channelled towards fighting poverty in our society and empowering our people, particularly those below poverty line. In doing this, land has become the sole and natural belonging of the people, which can be used as a source of fund to lift them out of poverty. But as it were, the policy seems not to be helpful when it comes to acquisition. As such, there is the need for the government to readdress the issue of land vis-à-vis landowners in acquisition, excision and compensation.
15. Having said that, may I use this medium to address some of the recent developments in our dear state especially the building collapses as well as the issue of END SARS panel report, which has been generating some controversy of late.
16. The issues of building collapse, recently, need to be paid full attention to in the state. The executive must ensure constant and close monitoring of all the agencies in charge of building. These agencies must be up and doing in the discharge of their duties regarding the monitoring, supervision and evaluation of building processes from one stage to another. Any government official who decides to collaborate with unscrupulous building engineers or found wanting in any way should be promptly charged for criminal liability.
17. May I use this medium to commend the seven-man judicial panel of inquiry to investigate cases of brutality and human rights violations committed by operatives of the disbanded special anti-robbery squad (SARS) in the state, chaired by retired Justice Doris Okuwobi. No doubt you were chosen to saddle this task based on your pedigree, integrity and creditability. We have utmost trust in you. As such, what you have been able to put together for about a year must not be jeopardised by mere unwarranted statements that can generate controversy. Let’s not forget that Lagos has never been a police state and it will not start now. Our state has always been a free state for all. We have absolute faith and confidence in our Governor that he will not descend so low to incite violence against any member of the panel irrespective of the decision or interest of the members of the Panel.
18. Based on this, I will plead with Lagosians and Nigerians as a whole that, while we await the White Paper of the ENDSARS Panel report, people should remain calm and not rush to judgment. You can rest assured that justice will surely be served based on the outcome of the report. Of course, we are aware that justice is the basis of any democratic government.
19. Likewise, it has come to my notice that in virtually every street in Lagos of today, there is a Baale or Oba parading themselves. This has become so ridiculous and unwholesome that it requires urgent intervention by the government before the institution becomes a laughing stock. I assure you that this honourable house will do everything within its ambit of power to review the chieftaincy law in the state so as to address this before it gets out of hand.
20. Be that as it may, there is need to remind us that to further strengthen democracy and rule of law. Party politics must not be limited to the fun of electing the party leaders. I say this vis-à-vis the upcoming All Progressives Congress (APC) Convention.
21. At the same time, separation of power is pivotal in the system of government that we practice in this clime. As such, this should be accorded its sacrosanct respect. Of recent, we see cases of the Executive going beyond their boundary in respect of recent development in Plateau State where police invaded and locked up the parliament. Same thing happened in Edo State. If we love democracy, we must all fight for it and protect all its democratic institutions.
22. The National Assembly too should be interested in criminalising invasion of the parliament by anybody, by taking the advantage of the ongoing constitutional review. Anybody found wanting be it Governor, irrespective of the immunity attached to the office or honourable members of the state must be sanctioned. At the expiration of such governor’s administration, he should be made to face the law accordingly. Any police officer that colludes with such illegal invasion should likewise face criminal charges. We at the Lagos State House of Assembly are willing to address this frontally by amending our own Administration of Criminal Justice Act to make a provision for the criminalising of parliament invasion or any other action that undermines the parliament institution. It will interest you that such litigation can be initiated by any individual, CSO or agency. So, you don’t have to wait for government to bring such up.
23. Let me also use this medium to call on our President, Muhammed Buhari to do everything within his power in addressing the state of economy. You will all agree with me that the level of unemployment, inflation, insecurity, infrastructural decay in the country is at an alarming rate. As such, I urge Mr President to work towards rejigging the economy. The federal government should at the same time work with the component units, which are the states, to further empower them to develop the natural endowment resources. This will no doubt boost the economy. Some provisions in the constitution should be reviewed as well such as the railway line and distribution of electricity. For the umpteenth time too, state police should be well considered now as a way of tackling insecurity in the country.
24. Nevertheless, I cannot but salute and commend all Lagosians for their unalloyed support given to us. This can be confirmed in the last Local Government elections in the state where they threw their weight behind us by voting enmasse for our party, the All Progressive Congress, which led to us winning all the Local Governments in the state. It is likewise worthy of note to praise Lagosians for their prompt response to our policies and the payment of their taxes too.
25. It is on this note, however, that I urge those who are still failing in this constitutional obligation of tax payment to make adjustments. Without tax, there will be no Lagos of our dream.
26. All our party leaders and followers in Lagos, particularly our National leader and the GAC members, let us be resolute, determined, focused and stand together in unity. Surely, we will always remain upright on our feet and victorious in every situation and condition.
27. In conclusion, may I use this medium to appreciate and commend all the well wishers who reached out to make 11/11, being my birthday, a colourful day. All the paramount rulers, the ALGON, my people from Agege, Mr Governor who took time to call in the midnight, members of the Executive Council of Lagos State, especially those who attended the party, the Attorney General, Head of Service, members of Permanent Secretary, and all my colleagues at the Lagos State House of Assembly for their love and support, especially for daring the torrential downpour of that day when we were playing football. I also appreciate all my colleagues from my Alma Mater: LASU and Law School for the dance that went viral. At a time in one’s life, you let go your worries and discomfort and be cheerful. Of course, that was a moment I found myself that night. I had no means to exhibit that than engaging in dancing.
Once again, I thank you all for coming and wish us a fruitful Y2022.
Igbega Ipinle Eko, ajumose gbogbo wa ni.
– Rt. Hon Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa
Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly
