Mr President,
On behalf of the Government and People of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I salute you as you preside over the 68th Session of the United Nations General Assembly. I assure you of the full support and cooperation of the Nigerian delegation.
I also wish to extend our commendation to the Secretary-General Mr. Ban Ki-moon, and place on record, Nigeria's appreciation for his focused and committed leadership of the United Nations system.
This Session is coming at a particularly trying period when our world faces a number of critical challenges which make it imperative for us to work within the Charter of the United Nations to meaningfully address them.
It is therefore apt that the theme, Post 2015 Development Agenda: Setting the Stage, signposts our desire and determination to actively cooperate for the improvement of the overall welfare and well-being of the most vulnerable citizens of the member-states of our Organisation.
Nigeria appreciates the consultative nature of designing the Post-2015 development agenda. Earlier in the year, we supported this global outreach through inclusive consultations and surveys of a number of Nigerians who have expressed their aspirations with respect to the world they expect beyond 2015.
A major highlight of this process, which has increased national ownership of the agenda, is the emphasis on the eradication of poverty as the overarching principle in the formulation of the successor framework.
Indeed, tomorrow, we will be hosting a side event on the implementation of the MDGs, in collaboration with the UN, a number of African countries, and our development partners.
As I had cause to say to this Assembly last Session, 2015 is not a destination but only a milestone to a better, safer, healthier and more compassionate world. Let us therefore renew our commitment to the processes that will develop the post-MDGs framework.
Mr. President,
This objective is of particular resonance to us in Africa where the challenges of poverty, illiteracy, food insecurity, and climate change continue to engage the attention of the political leadership.
The good news however, is that in the last decade, a sustained democratization process across the continent has made significant difference in governance processes, institutions and structures. Today, we have a renascent Africa that has moved away from the era of dictatorship to a new dawn where the ideals of good governance and an emphasis on human rights and justice are beginning to drive state-society relations. This is the present reality of Africa that must replace the old prejudices and assumptions about the continent.
We are firm in our conviction that democracy is fundamental to achieving the requisite stability that will enable the realization of a sustainable post-2015 development agenda in Africa.
This emergent Africa will require the continued support and partnership of the international community. An Africa that is no longer merely a destination for aid but one that is involved in constructive, multi-sectoral exchanges on the global stage. Our continent stands ready to continue to engage the rest of the world as a partner in formulating a global development agenda that will guarantee peace, security and stability.
I wish to express my appreciation for Nigeria's selection as co-Chair of the Expert Committee on Financing Sustainable Development.
The importance of this Committee's assignment cannot be overstated. For the post-2015 development agenda to be realistic, it must be backed by a robust financing framework which I hope will receive the strong backing of our Organisation's more endowed members.
Mr. President,
Nigeria's commitment to sustainable peace and security propels the country to action along with member states of our sub-regional and continental organisations, whenever stability is threatened in our continent. In recent years, Africa has had its share of conflicts notably in Mali, Guinea-Bissau, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central African Republic and Somalia.
It is noteworthy that African leaders, with the support of the international community, have demonstrated the capacity to work in concert and decisively in pursuit of long-term solutions in the affected States. While a lot more still needs to be done, we are convinced that progress is being made.
The recent Presidential elections in Mali herald a new beginning that should translate into peace and prosperity for its people and provide a stronger basis for stability within the sub-region. I congratulate President Boubacar Keita. Similarly, the political transition process in Guinea Bissau holds much promise. Among African leaders, there is a greater determination and focus on the transformation of the continent. This is the required impetus for the achievement of development objectives
that will benefit the people, and rebrand the continent even more positively.
Although our world has not witnessed a global war since the establishment of the United Nations, there have been several conflicts with devastating consequences and impact in virtually all regions of the world. As global citizens, we have a sacred duty to free our world of wars, rivalries, ethnic conflicts, and religious divisions. Our collective effort in our drive for a better world will continue to bind us together.
Mr. President,
Nigeria continues to support the efforts of the United Nations in addressing the global initiative to combat the menace of the illicit trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons. We have redoubled efforts to address this onerous challenge within our borders and across the West African sub-region.
In doing so, we also recognize the need for a broad-based global partnership in the on-going battle against trans-border crimes, including terrorism and acts of piracy. It is regrettable that these scourges are sustained by unfettered access by non-state actors to illicit small arms and light weapons with which they foster insecurity and instability across our continent. For us in Africa, these are the 'weapons of mass destruction'!
It is therefore, in the light of our collective obligation and unceasing struggle to end this nightmare, that I congratulate Member-States on the adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) in April this year. Our hope is that upon its entry into force, the ATT would herald an era of accountable trade in conventional arms which is critical to the security of nations.
In line with our continued commitment to this project, Nigeria has signed and ratified the Treaty. We will continue to engage other Member-States for its successful implementation.
Mr. President,
Terrorism constitutes a major threat to global peace and security, and undermines the capacity for sustained development. In Nigeria, the threat of terrorism in a few States in the North Eastern part of our country has proven to be a challenge to national stability. We will spare no effort in addressing this menace. We are therefore confronting it with every resource at our disposal with due regard for fundamental human rights and the rule of law.
Nigeria will like to place on record its appreciation to the international community for its support in this regard. The reign of terror anywhere in the world is an assault on our collective humanity. Three days ago, the stark reality of this menace was again brought to the fore by the dastardly terrorist attack in Nairobi, Kenya. We must stand together to win this war together.
Mr. President,
Piracy, like terrorism, is another menace that has attained worrisome proportions, especially in Africa's coastal waters. At the bilateral and multilateral levels, Nigeria has promoted cooperation to mitigate its impact and consequences on the security and economies of the affected coastal states.
Indeed, in June this year, the leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and the Gulf of Guinea Commission met in Yaounde, Cameroon, and came up with practical steps to collectively confront the menace of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea. This effort will, no doubt, require reinforcement and wider support and collaborative action on the part of our international partners.
Mr. President,
The situation in the Middle East remains volatile. The reported use of chemical weapons in the Syrian crisis, is unacceptable. Nigeria condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the use of chemical weapons that are prohibited by International Conventions.
We applaud the current diplomatic efforts to avert further escalation of the crisis. We urge all parties involved to end the violence and seek a negotiated solution, including the instrumentality of the United Nations.
The threat which nuclear weapons pose to the survival of the human race is to be understood not just in the context of aspirational nations but also the nations already in possession of such weapons. Nuclear weapons are as unsafe in the hands of small powers as they are in the hands of the major powers. It is our collective responsibility to urge the international community to respond to the clarion call for a peaceful universe in an age of uncertainty.
We can attain this objective if we adopt measures and policies that will promote nuclear disarmament, protect and renew our environment, and push towards an international system that is based on trust, mutual respect and shared goals.
Mr. President,
I believe that I express the concern of many about the slow pace of effort and apparent lack of progress in the reform of the United Nations, especially the Security Council. We believe strongly, that the call for democratization worldwide should not be for States only, but also, for International Organisations such as the UN. That is why we call for the democratization of the Security Council.
This is desirable for the enthronement of justice, equity, and fairness; and also for the promotion of a sense of inclusiveness and balance in our world.
Our support for the United Nations Security Council in its primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security has been total and unwavering. We have, in previous membership of the Council, demonstrated both the political will and capacity to engage in key Council responsibilities. Nigeria has therefore decided to seek election for the 2014-2015 Non-Permanent Seat of the UNSC.
I am pleased to state that Nigeria has received the endorsement of the Economic Community of West African States and the African Union. We urge this august Assembly to endorse Nigeria's candidature.
Mr. President,
Our world continues to be confronted by pressing problems and threats. No statement that will be made during this Session can exhaust the extent of these problems. The world looks to us, as leaders, to provide hope in the midst of crisis, to provide guidance through difficult socio-political divisions, and to ensure that we live in a better world.
We have obligations to the present generation, but we have a greater obligation to generations yet unborn who should one day inherit a world of sufficiency irrespective of the circumstances of their birth or where they reside on the globe. We must work to make that world a reality in recognition of our common heritage.
We must strive to eradicate poverty, hunger, disease and human misery; we must eliminate the scourge of nuclear, chemical, biological, as well as small arms and light weapons. We must dedicate ourselves to working together to address global, regional and national challenges and deliver a more peaceful, equitable and prosperous world for all. It is our duty. We must not fail.
I thank you.
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
Addressing the world leaders and other delegates at the opening of the 68th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations, President Jonathan declared that Nigeria's commendable performance on previous occasions when it held a non-permanent seat on the security council, should assure the global community that the country deserved to be elected to the council again for the 2014-2015 session.
"Our support for the United Nations Security Council in its primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security has been total and unwavering.
"We have, in previous membership of the Council, demonstrated both the political will and capacity to engage in key Council responsibilities.
"I am pleased to state that Nigeria has received the endorsement of the Economic Community of West African States and the African Union.
We therefore urge this august Assembly to endorse Nigeria's candidature for a non-permanent seat on the Security Council," President Jonathan said in his address to the General Assembly.
The President also called for faster action towards the democratisation of the Security Council, saying that Nigeria and other developing countries were concerned about the lack of progress in the reformation of the United Nations.
"I believe that I express the concern of many about the slow pace of effort and apparent lack of progress in the reform of the United Nations, especially the Security Council.
We believe strongly, that the call for democratization worldwide should not be for States only, but also, for International Organisations such as the United Nations.
"That is why we call for the democratization of the Security Council.
This is desirable for the enthronement of justice, equity, and fairness; and also for the promotion of a sense of inclusiveness and balance in our world," President Jonathan said.
Noting that the world continues to be confronted with many serious challenges, President Jonathan called for a renewed and concerted effort by the international community to effectively resolve all issues that currently impede global peace, stability and progress.
"Our world continues to be confronted by pressing problems and threats.
No statement that will be made during this Session can exhaust the extent of these problems.
The world looks to us, as leaders, to provide hope in the midst of crisis, to provide guidance through difficult socio-political divisions, and to ensure that we live in a better world.
"We have obligations to the present generation, but we have a greater obligation to generations yet unborn who should one day inherit a world of sufficiency irrespective of the circumstances of their birth or where they reside on the globe.
We must work to make that world a reality in recognition of our common heritage.
"We must dedicate ourselves to working together to address global, regional and national challenges and deliver a more peaceful, equitable and prosperous world for all. It is our duty. We must not fail"," President Jonathan declared.
The President also restated his called for the international community to confront the menace of global terrorism with greater resolve and determination.
"Terrorism constitutes a major threat to global peace and security, and undermines the capacity for sustained development.
In Nigeria, the threat of terrorism in a few States in the North Eastern part of our country has proven to be a major challenge to national stability.
We are therefore confronting it with every resource at our disposal with due regard for fundamental human rights and the rule of law.
The reign of terror anywhere in the world is an assault on our collective humanity.
Three days ago, the stark reality of this menace was again brought to the fore by the dastardly terrorist attack in Nairobi, Kenya. We must stand together to win this war together," President Jonathan said.
The President welcomed Nigeria's selection as co-Chair of the United Nations Expert Committee on Financing Sustainable Development.
"The importance of this Committee's assignment cannot be overstated. For the post-2015 development agenda to be realistic, it must be backed by a robust financing framework which I hope will receive the strong backing of our Organisation's more endowed members," he said. President Jonathan congratulated UN member-states on the adoption of the Arms Trade Treaty."Our hope is that upon its entry into force, the ATT would herald an era of accountable trade in conventional arms which is critical to the security of nations," the President said.He condemned the reported use of chemical weapons in the Syrian crisis and welcomed current diplomatic efforts to avert a further escalation of the crisis in the country.
President Jonathan also urged world leaders to adopt measures and policies that will promote nuclear disarmament, protect and renew the world's environment, and push towards an international system that is based on trust, mutual respect and shared goals.
Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 24, 2013
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
Speaking at talks with President Barrack Obama of the United States ahead of the opening of the 68th session of the United Nations tomorrow, President Jonathan said that unless the international community unites and deploys its enormous resources to eradicate terrorism, it will continue to be embarrassed by terrorist outrages such as the heinous attack on defenceless shoppers in Nairobi at the weekend which both leaders strongly condemned.
President Jonathan expressed his appreciation of the support and assistance Nigeria has been receiving from the United States for its fight against domestic terrorism. He added, however, that Nigeria will welcome even more bilateral collaboration in this regard.
The President said that his administration also looked forward to the further strengthening of Nigeria's relations with the United States in the areas of trade and economic development.
He reassured President Jonathan of his commitment to the continuous strengthening of Nigeria's electoral processes and the country's democratic institutions.
President Jonathan also applauded President Obama's Power Africa and Youth Leadership Initiatives saying that both initiatives would complement aspects of his administration's agenda for national transformation.
President Obama had while welcoming President Jonathan to their meeting at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York, described Nigeria as a critical partner of the United States in Africa.
He assured President Jonathan that the United States will continue to cooperate with Nigeria in all possible areas, including the war against domestic and global terrorism.
President Jonathan was accompanied to the talks by the Minister of State (Foreign Affairs) Prof. Viola Onwuliri, Nigeria's Ambassador to the United States, Prof. Adebowale Adefuye, the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Allison Madueke, and the Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Ibrahim Dankwambo.
The United States Secretary of State, Mr. John Kerry and President Obama's National Security Adviser, Ms. Susan Rice were also present at the talks.
Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 23, 2013
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
While we trust that discerning members of the public who are already very familiar with Sahara Reporters' usual fare of mischief, outright falsehood and erroneous speculation will rightly dismiss this latest claim as a fresh manifestation of the online medium's ill-will towards President Jonathan and his administration, we wish to affirm for the benefit of the unwary that there is absolutely no truth in the allegation that the President took a 600-man delegation to New York.
There is also no substance to the rehashed charge of profligacy which Sahara reporters annually makes against the President when he leads Nigeria's delegation to the UN General Assembly.
The truth is that less than 30 persons arrived in New York with the President this morning as members of his entourage. Other than them, the only other persons who are in New York for the UN General Assembly with the President's knowledge and approval are relevant ministers and few essential aides.
President Jonathan's official delegation is definitely not out of proportion with Nigeria's size, role and relevance in Africa and the global community.
Sahara Reporters' claim that the President's delegation is the largest at this year's General Assembly is an unjustifiable fabrication which can never stand any rigorous test of truthfulness.
We are certainly aware that many Nigerian citizens are currently on visits to New York. These persons are here for their own purposes and neither President Jonathan nor his administration has any responsibility for the presence of these persons in New York.
We will not be surprised if it is such persons who include Nigerian businessmen who are here for an African Business Roundtable event, members of non-governmental organizations and tourists that Sahara Reporters has been counting, for the sole purpose of mischief-making, as "members of the Nigerian delegation".
Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 22, 2013
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
President Jonathan who is also scheduled to meet with President Barack Obama of the United States in New York, will join other world leaders for high-level discussions on ways and means of building on the progress made thus far towards achieving the millennium development goals that were agreed in the year 2000.
The President and members of his delegation will participate in other high-level events focussing on women, youth and civil society, human rights and the rule of law, as well as the use of information communications technology for development.
The Nigerian delegation led by President Jonathan will also contribute to thematic debates on the role of partnerships; how stable and peaceful societies can contribute to development; and the role of potable water, sanitation and sustainable energy in the post-2015 global development agenda.
Before delivering Nigeria's statement to the 68th Session of the United Nations General Assembly which will be broadcast live by the Nigerian Television Authority on Tuesday, President Jonathan will on Monday take his administration's drive for greater foreign investment in Nigeria to the famous New York Stock Exchange where he will be honoured with the opportunity of ringing the closing bell for the day.
President Jonathan who will be accompanied by the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, representatives of the governors' forum, representatives of the National Assembly and several ministers will also confer with the United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. Ban Ki-Moon and hold bilateral talks with other heads of state and government.
The President will host a reception for the Nigerian Community in the United States before leaving New York for Abuja on Wednesday.
Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 20, 2013
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
Speaking at an audience with Zambia's new High Commissioner to Nigeria, Lt.-Col. Bizwayo Newton Nkunika (rtd.), President Jonathan said that while notable macro-economic growth had been achieved across the continent in recent years, African leaders must now focus more on translating such gains into improved living conditions for their people.
The President noted that Africa's political independence would only become truly meaningful to its citizens with visible improvements in human development indicators such as reduction in poverty levels, access to better healthcare facilities, good education and employment opportunities for their children.
Remarking that the challenge of poverty unfortunately continues to blur other achievements in Africa since the continent attained political liberation, President Jonathan said that African leaders clearly needed to prioritize job creation and poverty reduction.
"African countries need to improve on trade and investment as this is the only way to create jobs and to reduce poverty. Nigeria will continue to encourage intra-African trade and business as that will help to move the continent forward," he said.
President Jonathan also urged other African leaders to fulfill promises of opening up their economies to greater regional and intra-continental trade, while re-positioning their countries to attract more foreign direct investments through increased political and economic stability.
President Jonathan also received letters of credence from the new Ambassador of Denmark to Nigeria, Ms. Margit Thomsen and the new Ambassador of the Netherlands to Nigeria, Mr. Johannes Cornelis Maria Groffenf.
Welcoming all three new ambassadors to the country, the President urged them to work for enhanced bilateral relations between their countries and Nigeria.
President Jonathan also received the outing Ambassador of Burkina Faso, Mr. Dramare Yameogo.
He commended Mr. Yameogo for his efforts to improve on the existing cordial relations between Nigeria and Burkina Faso, and wished him success in his future assignments.
Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 16, 2013
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
At the Nigerian Defence Academy, (NDA) Kaduna
Saturday 14th September, 2013
PROTOCOLS
1. It is a thing of joy to join you here once again, at the Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA), to review the passing out of the 60th Regular Course Cadets, which today include, 8 graduating Cadets from the Republic of Liberia.
2. I am honoured to extend a special welcome to His Excellency, the President of Ivory Coast, Alassane Dramane Ouattara, who is not only here to witness this graduation, but also to be honoured with an honorary doctorate degree of this prestigious military institution.
3. Mr President, you are an exemplary leader, an African role model, whose commitment to social and economic change in Ivory Coast is quite remarkable. We urge you to keep up the good work.
4. Your Excellency, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, since establishment in 1964, the NDA has played a leading and holistic role in the attainment of our aspiration to build a strong, safe, and secure country for all Nigerians.
5. By its consistency and thoroughness in the production of astutely trained, and highly disciplined Officers for our Armed Forces, the NDA deserves its global reputation of excellence, and its mandate of elite capacity development for the protection of our sovereignty.
6. The NDA's commitment to best practices, in military and intellectual development and as a centre of excellence for military training, being the pioneer military university in West Africa, has also earned the trust and confidence of sister countries, who have consistently sent their officers here for training.
7. For our graduating Officers, you commenced this momentous journey five years ago, full of hope and promise. Some of your course mates may have fallen by the way side, but you have relentlessly and gallantly, endured to this day.
8. I congratulate each and everyone one of you, and your proud families, on the successful completion of your course. This is undoubtedly an astonishing moment that you will all remember, in the years to come. I am confident that you will take away from this institution, qualities that will enable you fulfill your dreams, and contribute your best to the specific services of your commission, and your Nation.
9. The parade we have just witnessed is a distinctive display of excellence, hard work, discipline and rigorous training. Today marks the end of your rigorous training in this academy and the beginning of your careers as Officers in the Armed Forces.
10. Soon, you shall be Commissioned Officers, with important contributions to make to the realization of our national security objectives. You must brace up to join your colleagues in the ongoing efforts to protect and defend our nation from any threat whether domestic or internationally inspired.
11. The Nigerian Armed Forces have a world-acclaimed reputation for valour, resilience and loyal service. The highly coveted Presidential Commission you will be receiving requires you to uphold these core values.
12. You must avoid any behaviour that will tarnish your honour and dignity as commissioned Officers. As you embark in building your careers in military service, your country expects the highest degree of faithfulness, loyalty, honesty and dedicated service. Thus, your commitment and loyalty to the Armed Forces, and your various Nations, must be unwavering and absolute.
13. Your commission today, is a passport for further service to humanity. Therefore, when on peacekeeping assignments around the world, nothing short of exemplary conduct, stout leadership and professionalism, will make the nations you represent proud. You must never compromise in adherence to the Rules of Engagement, which will be the key to your operational success.
14. Every Nigerian Cadet here today, has an important role to play in the ongoing transformation process in the Armed Forces, an initiative, which the Federal Government will continue to support and expand, within available resources.
15. Let me reiterate that my administration is committed to ensuring equity, due process, merit and the rule of law. I note with satisfaction, the report that our young female cadets have continued to prove that they are second to none in training, and in adhering to military discipline. My dream in initiating the process of admission of female cadets into the Defence Academy was born out of my belief that, given the opportunity, our young sisters will do Nigeria proud.
16. I feel fulfilled by my decision to permit regular combatant training for female cadets. I urge these amazons to keep working even harder than their male counterparts to meet the best standards of the academy and make our nation proud, as well as inspiring others to follow in their steps.
17. Over the decades, the NDA has evolved into a platform for building understanding and strengthening cooperation between the Armed Forces of Nigeria and those of sister African countries. This great institution, has also provided a genuine platform for young men and women from all parts of our country, to live, train and learn together in an environment devoid of discrimination, and harassment. We must ensure that this noble tradition is promoted, protected and defended.
18. Let me use this opportunity to call on those individuals who cause disaffection and mayhem in our country, and in other parts of Africa, under whatever guise, to imbibe the values of peace, love and unity, which exist here in the NDA. I have no doubt, that in building a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria and Africa of our collective dream, the virtue of peace, love, unity and common purpose are most important.
19. I commend the Commandant and his team for creating the right environment for quality academic and military training and values to thrive in this institution. I have received encouraging reports on the performance and progress of the female cadets in the regular combatant course programme, since it started two years ago and we are proud of them, and of our pioneering initiative.
20. It is worthy of note that as required by the National Universities Commission (NUC) guidelines, the next set of cadets, who will commence training in a few weeks, were admitted through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
21. I commend the Nigerian Defence Academy Council - the institution's Governing Board - for complying with this directive, in order to align with the requirements for admission into degree awarding institutions in our country.
22. I am also pleased that the NDA has embraced the Federal Government's initiative on intensifying the study of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). This reinforces my confidence in the military's vital role in accelerating our national technological development.
23. I congratulate the NDA in advance as it turns 50 years on 26 January 2014. This is, undoubtedly, a major milestone for this great institution, whose graduates have been pivotal in shaping the life of our Nation.
24. I salute the founding fathers for their foresight in establishing this institution, which is even more relevant today for our national security and development. I also salute all those individuals, Nigerians and non-Nigerians, whose contributions helped steer the NDA on its lofty path, these fifty years.
25. I wish the entire NDA community successful golden jubilee celebrations ahead. The Government will continue to work towards the completion of the Permanent Site, in order to enhance training in the institution.
26. In concluding, I would like to, once again, congratulate the Commandant and Staff of the Nigerian Defence Academy, for successfully delivering yet another set of graduate officers, and future leaders for our Armed Forces and the Armed Forces of the Republic of Liberia.
27. I urge you to remain steadfast in your uncommon task. For our graduates, I urge you to strive to be the best in your vocation, and hence shining stars to the entire nation.
28. I thank you.
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
It is instructive that despite the refutation of the story by the company, which ought to have laid the mischief to rest, a number of politically-minded news media continue to insist on promoting the blatant falsehood. We deplore their antics as yet another attempt to use any trick or means possible to discredit President Jonathan's well-meaning, hardworking and focused administration.
It is certainly a matter of public record and knowledge that since his assumption of office, President Jonathan has ensured that October 1 independence-day anniversaries are low-key, without any pomp or pageantry. Ironically, even this prudence generated criticisms from a cynical and opportunistic segment of the public which alleged, in 2011, and again in 2012, that the President was either too scared to celebrate or that the government was broke.
This administration has no intention to depart from its established habit of prudent management of resources and modest celebration of the country's independence anniversary. This year, the public should be assured that the October 1 anniversary will also be low-keyed. Neither the Federal Government nor its agencies has ordered any gold iPhones to mark the anniversary.
We do not see any justification for such extravagance either now or at any other time. The Jonathan administration's gold standard is to continue to provide responsible, committed, and result-oriented leadership, not to engage in the purchase and distribution of party gifts.
We urge the Dubai-based company, which has since said that the order for the said 53 gold i-phones was placed by a private individual and not the Nigerian Government, to go ahead and disclose the identity of that individual. We appeal to the public to beware of the increasing desperation of those with politically vested interests, seeking to pull down this administration. Their moral bankruptcy is condemnable.
The Jonathan administration will remain focused as it continues to serve the Nigerian people diligently.
Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 12, 2013
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
Speaking at an audience with the former British Prime Minister, Mr. Gordon Brown, President Jonathan said that his Administration will continue to evolve and execute programmes and actions to improve access to quality education across the country in furtherance of its efforts to create a highly skilled and competitive work-force.
The President assured Mr. Brown, who now serves as the United Nations Special Envoy on Global Education, that in addition to providing the $250 Million required to match the amount raised by international donors towards giving more Nigerian youth access to basic education, the federal government will also provide all possible support to state governments to ensure that they are able to access the new funds and put them to appropriate use.
"Thank you for helping us in this area. Education is critical to making our youth more employable. The Coordinating Minister of the Economy/Finance and the Minister of Education will work with the states to make sure that the programme succeeds," President Jonathan told Mr. Brown.
Mr. Brown told the President that he had had a very productive meeting with Vice President Namadi Sambo, the Coordinating Minister of the Economy/Finance, Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Minister of Education, Prof. Ruqayyatu Rufa'i, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Ashiru, the Minister of State for Education, Mr. Nyesom Wike, governors and state commissioners for education on international support for efforts to create greater access to educational opportunities for Nigerian youth.
He said that the United Nations and international donors were committed to working with the federal and state governments to expand teacher training programmes, improve girl-child education and boost the use of the tools of modern technology such as e-books and tablets in providing basic education to more Nigerian youth.
Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
September 9, 2013
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
Mr Speaker
Principal Officers of the Two Chambers
Honourable Members of the National Assembly
Members of the Diplomatic Corps
Distinguished Invitees
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I bring you fraternal greetings from Nigeria. I am pleased to use this opportunity to express our deep appreciation for the warm reception accorded us since we arrived this beautiful country.
2. I thank the leadership and members of this august assembly for inviting and receiving me so warmly. I am particularly grateful for this honour, especially, for suspending your well-deserved recess in order to receive me. It is indeed the hallmark of true friendship to be so honoured by such an important arm of government. We are not surprised because Kenya is well known for her hospitality.
3. Even though we are separated by distance, we have many things in common. It will be of interest to you that while the National Anthem of Kenya starts with
"O God of All Creation", the second stanza of the Nigerian National Anthem starts with
"O God of Creation".
4. We are two nations bound together in love of God. Kenya, like Nigeria, is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation. Kenya is also a nation that has resolved to live together no matter its differences and divisions, just like Nigeria.
5. Nigeria, therefore, along with many other members of the international community was particularly pleased at the peaceful outcome of your last election that ushered in a new Administration and a new National Assembly. Kenya disappointed the pessimists and reaffirmed that Africans can manage their own affairs. We should be allowed the space to do so. We commend and congratulate the leadership and entire people of Kenya for overcoming the challenges you faced in order to achieve such a peaceful election.
Mr. Speaker,
6. Our quality of leadership is inferior to none neither is our sense of dedication to the common good below par. Our commitment to the upliftment of our peoples is paramount. Our vision is clear; our sense of mission remains ever resolute. Indeed, this has run through the entire gamut of Kenyan history. Your struggle for independence and dignity was a major struggle.
7. Here we must remember the heroes of the past: the leaders and members of the Kenyan Land and Freedom Army (KLFA), also known as the Mau Mau, whose revolt between 1952 and 1960 gave impetus to the struggle for independence. These men and women paid the supreme price. Their blood watered the tree of liberty and inspired nationalists in other parts of our continent and even beyond. But for them, Kenya would not have attained its freedom when it did. To them, we owe a debt of gratitude.
8. The moral justification of the revolt has been further proved by the recent agreement by the United Kingdom to pay compensation to the victims and their descendants. While no monetary compensation would ever be enough for lives lost, we join Kenya in celebrating this moral victory.
9. We are the new generation to whom the torch of leadership has been passed by our forebears. We shall neither let the flame go out nor betray the sacred trust bestowed on us. Our generation must bring about the desired change for our people. We are determined to do so. We shall neither waver nor quit. We intend to fulfill our manifest destiny.
Mr Speaker,
10. Bilateral relations between Nigeria and Kenya have remained warm and cordial. Happily, they are now at the level of a strategic partnership for the mutual benefit of our two countries and peoples. This is right as the East finally meets the West in active and close collaboration to move forward the African development agenda. This is consistent with the objectives of the African Union which enjoins the best of African home-grown solutions; turning current challenges into opportunities for peace, security and sustainable development.
11. As Africa celebrates its Golden Jubilee, we must pause and reflect on the future of our continent in the next 50 years. The questions are: What will be Africa's place in a world that is increasingly knowledge-driven and inter-dependent? Should Africa be content to remain a mere producer of raw materials and net importer of manufactured products? Indeed, what is Africa's vision for itself at its centenary? These are the new and pressing challenges before us; the battle against poverty, being one of them. Nobody is going to fight for us if we do not fight for ourselves. Nobody is going to show us the way to economic prosperity if we do not show ourselves the way. The economic liberation and development of Africa lies in our hands.
12. We must devise innovative and dynamic policies to fully develop our potentials. We have to think together as Africans, cooperate as partners, improve our communication links, expand inter-African trade and take our continent to a higher level in the global order.
13. I am therefore happy that the recent visit of President Uhuru Kenyatta to Nigeria underscored the need for our two countries and Africa to come together and work as one. It augurs well for our relationship that, during that visit, we signed an agreement for the establishment of a Joint Commission for Cooperation, which provides the basic framework for closer bilateral collaboration for the mutual benefit of our peoples. Again, during the current visit, our officials and key private sector operators have been discussing modalities and strategies to actualise our shared aspirations and development objectives. 14. There is no doubt that additional legislation will be necessary to bring many aspects of our relations to the required level. The importance of this esteemed Assembly in this regard cannot be over-emphasized.
Mr. Speaker,
15. We have a responsibility to ensure Africa's successful renaissance. We must continue to act to eradicate want, ignorance and disease through the unlocking of our inventive genius. We must continue to open up political spaces for the free expression of ideas. We must build a society where justice reigns supreme, granting fairness and equality to all before the law. Africa also has to add further impetus to its integration process. We must re-double our efforts to actualise our dream for an African Economic Community (AEC).
16. For sustainable development, we require peace. We must all work together to put an end to conflicts and wars on our continent. We must confront all acts of terrorism wherever they occur, as they endanger the safety of our peoples and societies as well as disrupt economic activities. Here, I must commend the efforts of Kenya, along with other African countries in helping to stabilise the situation in Somalia. Nigeria is proud to be part of this effort as demonstrated by our active participation in the African Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).
Mr. Speaker,
17. Knowledge remains a veritable tool of social mobility and advancement. It has enabled mankind to conquer unknown frontiers, surmount intractable problems and overcome enormous challenges. Therefore, education remains the key to unlocking the door for development and fostering improved well-being, both for the community and the individual. Science and technology have vastly changed the world we live in and their trajectory on this revolutionary path is unstoppable.
18. To develop as we should, we must put in place in all our countries, well designed policies and strategies that give young people ready access to qualitative education. The strategic objective should be to make our youth independent thinkers, innovators, developers, entrepreneurs and community builders who can create jobs and add value to society.
19. We must harness and properly channel the energies of our youth for economic growth and social development. Africa's youths are one of the continent's greatest assets. Much of the continent's immense promise for the future rests on their youthful shoulders. We have a duty and responsibility to nurture them and ensure their growth to the full extent of their potentials. Mr. Speaker,
20. I am happy to note that the Kenyan Constitution reserves thirty per cent of seats in Parliament for women representatives. This is a progressive development to be commended, indeed emulated by others as it enjoins gender equality and sensitivity across the spectrum in appointment to public offices. It is a development we applaud, even as we in Nigeria are committed to achieving the same goals. Besides pursuing a policy of equal opportunity in employment between gender in our public and civil services, we have opened up all cadres of the Nigerian armed forces, including regular combatants, to women who can now aspire to the highest ranks possible for the first time in our history. More than thirty per cent of Cabinet positions and other key political appointments are held by women while the judicial arm of government is headed by a woman as Chief Justice of the Federation.
21. These actions are not taken simply because we want to comply with international conventions or United Nations resolutions. They are taken deliberately because they are right and fair. Indeed, it is the correct approach to take if we genuinely desire to attain the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and sustain them thereafter as envisaged by the post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Besides, they are in recognition of the important role which women continue to play in our respective countries. Such women as Prof. Wangari Maathai of blessed memory, winner of the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize and a tireless environmental campaigner must be celebrated.
Mr. Speaker,
22. I call for collaboration between our two legislatures. This can only be beneficial to our two countries and peoples. It would engender exchange of useful ideas and best practices with a view to strengthening our institutions, promoting human rights and deepening democracy. In this connection, I encourage Honourable Members of the Kenyan Parliament, to participate at the forthcoming African Legislative Summit 2013 taking place in Abuja from 11-13 November this year. Such collaboration can only enrich and reinforce the African Legislative Agenda for Development.
23. The need for a harmonious working relationship between the Legislative and Executive arms of government cannot be over-emphasized. Happily, such harmony exists in Kenya between all the three arms of government. This is how it should be to ensure that our governments are able to deliver positive dividends of democracy to our peoples.
24. Nigeria and Kenya are committed to democracy, the rule of law and the devolution of power from the centre to subsidiary tiers of government as a veritable model of governance. In this regard, Mr. Speaker, we in Nigeria are delighted that Kenyan democracy is alive and well as was amply demonstrated by the peaceful elections last March which ushered in the present administration. The events which attended the elections of 2007 can now be seen as unfortunate aberrations which did not in any way represent the natural inclination of the good people of Kenya, to live in peace and harmony with each other.
25. I believe I share the sentiments of the government and people of Kenya when I say that we in Nigeria do not embrace democracy and the rule of law in response to external pressure or demand. We have embraced democracy and its underpinnings such as free, fair, credible and transparent election; rule of law; respect for human and peoples' rights, because they are the right things to do and they are good for us.
26. We do not seek the validation or endorsement of our democracy outside the collective will of our people, the citizens and electorates of our respective countries. Democracy is not a one-size-fits-all system; rather it is a dynamic political system which must be operated within the particular context it finds itself.
Mr. Speaker,
27. The African renaissance to which we are all committed calls for the consolidation, building and strengthening of institutions. It calls for reinforcing institutions of government with the power, credibility and resources they require to perform to their optimal levels.
28. Kenya and Nigeria share similar positions on a wide range of issues on the African and global agenda. Thus, we have committed ourselves to the global fight against terrorism whose trans-boundary nature calls for concerted efforts on the part of the international community. We are also against the proliferation of small arms and light weapons which fuels the upsurge of conflict and terrorism in many parts of the world, including our African region.
29. We welcome the recent conclusion of the Arms Trade Treaty, which Nigeria has already signed. As a matter of fact, we think that the time has come for the international community to consider the idea of reparation from the manufacturers and purveyors of these weapons of small arms and light weapons, which for us are the weapons of mass destruction.
Mr. Speaker,
30. The on-going debate about the emerging global governance architecture should be of interest to our two countries and Africa as a whole. The existing international system is undemocratic and unfair. Africa's non-representation in the Councils and Chambers of international decision-making in the past was always explained in terms of our lack of sovereign independence. This claim is no longer valid. We call for the reform of the inherited global governance institutions. We call, especially, for the reform of the United Nations and its Security Council.
31. Africa and other regions of the world, either not represented at all or inadequately represented, should be admitted into the permanent membership category of an expanded UN Security Council. Similar expansion and reform should also apply to all the other multilateral institutions with lopsided membership such as the Bretton Woods institutions. This would ensure that the decisions of these organisations enjoy the respect and credibility of their members.
Mr. Speaker,
32. Therefore, we need to build this continent together with one mind and one goal. We need to consolidate our democratic practice. We need to revolutionise our economies. Democracy must deliver development to the people. From the edges of the blue waters of the Mediterranean to the beautiful shores of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, our people are united in demanding for the enthronement of a system that recognises their role as the ultimate source of power and development in the society.
33. As we look to the future, we see a new Africa that is ready to take its rightful place in the comity of nations. This new Africa, the shape of which is already becoming evident, can only become manifest through deliberate and concerted efforts on the part of the present leadership and followership across the continent.
34. Africa cannot afford to stand still. This is Africa's season to gather and unite. This is Africa's moment to rebuild. This century is ours. We must claim it for our continent and for the good of the world.
35. Kenya and Nigeria must work
hand-in-hand to herald the new Africa that would be democratic, united, developed and industrialised. An Africa that is, finally, at peace with itself and at peace with the rest of the world.
36. Mr. Speaker, very distinguished members of Parliament, I end my remarks with the motto of your country, the Republic of Kenya.
Harambee! Let us all pull together! Let us soar as Eagles.
Long Live the Republic of Kenya!
Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!!
Long live Nigeria-Kenya Relations!!
Asante Sana!
Sent from my BlackBerry wireless device from MTN
