Reuben Abati on Asari Dokubo's movement

Subject: Dr. Reuben Abati on Asari Dokubo's movement

Dr. Reuben Abati, on the claim that Asari Dokubo was brought to Nigeria from Benin Republic on his release in a presidential jet:

There is no truth in the report that a presidential jet was used to convey Asari Dokubo. Again, what we see here is the attempt by people to just tell lies and try to package lies as the truth.

I have read some reports in which they said "unconfirmed reports indicate.." Nobody has been able to say anything categorically and I think it is very sad that people, in an attempt to just play politics with anything at all, will start packaging lies hoping that gullible persons will believe them.

An aircraft is not a ghost in the air. The movement of any aircraft is properly documented and people will see the aircraft if it lands anywhere, particularly the presidential aircraft.

Nobody can come up with any evidence that any presidential jet was sent to Benin Republic. I can tell you that President Jonathan did not send any presidential jet to Benin Republic.

Or has Asari Dokubo told anybody that he was brought to Nigeria in a presidential jet? So what is this all about?

Blackmail and mischief obviously.

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PRESIDENT JONATHAN RECEIVES NEW UNITED STATES AMBASSADOR

President Goodluck Jonathan Tuesday in Abuja received the letters of credence of the new United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. James F. Entwistle and the new Namibian High Commissioner, Dr. Peingeonjabi Shipo.

Welcoming the diplomatic representatives to Nigeria, President Jonathan urged them to do their best to further strengthen the existing cordial relations between Nigeria and their respective countries.

The President assured the two new ambassadors of the fullest support of the Federal Government for their efforts to broaden areas of bilateral collaboration between Nigeria and their countries during their tenure.

President Jonathan also received Mr. Collins Chabane, a special envoy of President Jacob Zuma of South Africa.

The President assured Mr. Chabane that Nigeria will continue to welcome investors from South Africa and other African countries in keeping with its commitment to the promotion of intra-African trade and economic relations.

Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 26, 2013

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PRESIDENT JONATHAN TO RETURN HOME TOMORROW

Doctors who examined and treated President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan for the sudden onset of severe abdominal pains in London have certified him fully fit to return home and continue his official duties.

After a thorough evaluation of the President's symptoms, medically referred to as acute abdomen, the doctors concluded that no surgical intervention was required.

President Jonathan will therefore return to Abuja tomorrow evening and will be at work in the Presidential Villa as usual on Monday.

The President is scheduled to depart from London at about 1400 hours GMT and arrive at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at about 2000 hours.

He seizes this opportunity to thank all Nigerians once again for their sympathy, support and prayers for his quick recovery following the announcement of his indisposition.

Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 23, 2013
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PRESIDENT JONATHAN THANKS NIGERIANS FOR SOLIDARITY

President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan thanks all patriotic and well-meaning Nigerians, including his supporters, friends and political associates  who expressed and conveyed their sympathies and solidarity with him, through various means, following the announcement of his sudden indisposition while on a mission to attract greater investments to accelerate the growth of the Nigerian economy in keeping with his agenda for national transformation.
The Presidency also commends the generality of the mainstream media whose coverage of the President's slight health challenge in London was mostly factual, objective, fair-minded and supportive.

AT HIIC MEETING IN LONDON, PRESIDENT JONATHAN SAYS NIGERIAN GOVERNMENT WILL CONTINUE TO IMPLEMENT BOLD AND COURAGEOUS REFORMS

President Goodluck Jonathan addressed the ongoing meeting of Nigeria's Honourary International Investors' Council Friday in London having made a speedy recovery from the indisposition he experienced yesterday.

After apologising to the council members for his absence yesterday, President Jonathan said that his administration has attained significant momentum on the drive to attract new investors into the country and will continue to encourage existing investors within the country to expand.

"In 2014, we must not lose this momentum, but rather broaden our interventions to address other difficult issues like the high cost of financing in the country, and the dearth of adequate skills.

"This 15th meeting builds on the last conversation we had in Abuja and begins to address the fundamental issues constraining competitiveness and investment in Nigeria. Competitiveness ultimately drives profitability, which is what investors are seeking worldwide.

"To be competitive, we must address long standing issues, and introduce bold and courageous reforms, regardless of short term political pressures. This is why my government has remained steadfast in making Nigeria the preferred location for investors to do business, because it is our only pathway to create jobs, generate wealth, and guarantee our security.

"In building a truly competitive environment for business, we are addressing the fundamental issues such as internal security and power supply head-on. For the first time in Nigeria's 53 year history, we have successfully privatized the electric power industry.

"We are bringing capital, technology, and operational excellence into the sector. As a result, 11 distribution companies, and four (4) generation companies have been privatized, realising over US$3 billion for Government.  For Council's information the assets were finally handed over on 1st November, 2013. 

"I am delighted to inform you that investors are responding positively to the opportunities in the sector and we expect to see significant investments in the sector and across the value chain going forward. Ladies and Gentlemen, resolving the power sector alone, completely changes the paradigm on doing business in Nigeria, and we are satisfied with the progress made.

"Equally, although challenges remain, we are investing in the requisite security infrastructure and intelligence network that will enable us deal more effectively with the new threats we face which can and do hamper investor confidence in our economy.

"In ensuring that the environment is suitable for investment, we will also continue to intensify the fight against corruption. We are indeed happy that the private sector has begun complementing our strong desire to tackle all forms of rent seeking tendencies. The "Clean Business Nigeria Today" initiative coming from the meetings of the Council is a very good example.

"I also use this opportunity to inform Council that Nigeria will be hosting the World Economic Forum on Africa, between the 7th and 9th of May 2014.

"Our hosting this event is yet again a strong sign of Nigeria's central economic and political role on the continent. The forthcoming World Economic Forum will be used to shape matters of inclusive growth on the continent, and I invite all members of Council to join us in Abuja in May 2014," President Jonathan told members of the council.

The President participated in a discussion of the presentation by the Minister of Communications Technology on the development of ICT infrastructure in Nigeria.

He was also briefed on the council's deliberations yesterday on measures to secure additional sources of financing for essential development projects in Nigeria.

Baroness Lynda Chalker who coordinates the council, told President Jonathan that its members felt much more positive about the opening up of investment opportunities in Nigeria.

She said that the attendance at the ongoing meeting of the Council was the highest ever in its history and that its members were very excited about the emerging potentials of the Nigerian economy.
 
Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 22, 2013
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PRESIDENT JONATHAN UNDERGOES MEDICAL CHECK-UP IN LONDON

In the course of his on-going visit to London for a meeting of Nigeria's Honorary International Investors' Council, President Goodluck Jonathan became indisposed and could not be present at the opening of the meeting today.

President Jonathan has since been examined by competent medical practitioners. He has been advised to rest for a few days.

The Presidency wishes to assure all Nigerians that President Jonathan's condition is nothing serious and that the medical attention he has sought is only precautionary.

Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 21, 2013

PRESIDENT JONATHAN TO MEET WITH INTERNATIONAL INVESTORS’ COUNCIL IN LONDON

President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan will leave Abuja early Wednesday for London where he is scheduled to preside over a three-day meeting of Nigeria's Honourary International Investors' Council.

Issues on the agenda of the meeting include generating long-term affordable finance for Nigeria's real sector, developing Nigeria's private equity and venture capital sectors to attract more foreign investments as well as  Nigeria's information and communications technology master-plan.

The meeting of the council which is coordinated by Baroness Lynda Chalker will also feature a review of Nigeria's existing investment policies by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the Paris-based international organization dedicated to the promotion of policies that will improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world.

Members of the council include the CEO of the Investment Corporation of Dubai, Mr. Mohammed al Shaibani, a former South African Minister of Public Enterprises, Mr. Alec Erwin, the Vice President of Hewlett-Packard's Enterprise Group in Europe, Middle-East and Africa, Mr. Olivier Suinat, a former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Shaukat Aziz and the Director of Shell's International Upstream Business, Mr. Andrew Brown.

President Jonathan will be accompanied by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State, Senator Emmanuel Paulker, Senator Nenadi Usman, Hon. Sylvester Ogbaga, Hon. Isiaka Bawa, the Coordinating of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investments, Dr. Olusegun Aganga and the Governor of the Central Bank, Alhaji Lamido Sanusi.

Others on the President's entourage include the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Allison-Madueke, the Minister of Communications Technology, Mrs. Omobola Johnson, the Minister of Power, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, the Minister of Special Duties, Alhaji Kabiru Turaki, the Minister of State (Foreign Affairs), Prof. Viola Onwuliri and heads of relevant government agencies.

The accompanying Ministers and heads of agencies will brief the gathering on developments in their areas of responsibility, and also lead discussions on proposals for overcoming identified challenges.

The President is due back in Abuja at the weekend.

Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 19, 2013
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PRESIDENT JONATHAN HAILS NIGERIA’S QUALIFICATION FOR WORLD CUP FINALS, SAYS SUPER EAGLES CAN BE FIRST AFRICAN TEAM TO WIN THE WORLD CUP

President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan heartily congratulates the Super Eagles of Nigeria on their 2-0 victory over Ethiopia on Saturday in Calabar which has earned Nigeria a slot at the 2014 World Cup Finals in Brazil.

President Jonathan joins other proud and happy Nigerians in applauding the Super Eagles' dogged and determined performance against the Ethiopians over the two legs of the final qualifying round which ensured away and home victories, and also ensured that Nigeria will be at the World Cup Finals for the fifth time.

The President also commends the team's performance in all the preceding qualifying matches and the consistent commitment and dedication of the players to building on their victory at this year's African Nations Cup by qualifying for the World Cup Finals and bringing further glory to their fatherland.

As the team and its handlers bask in the glory of being the first African country to qualify for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, President Jonathan urges them to rededicate themselves to excelling on the global stage and reaching for heights never previously attained by the country at the World Cup Finals.

The President believes that with the enormous pool of footballing talent available to the country, the Super Eagles can, with more hardwork, dedication, resilience and further honing of their skills and tactics, fulfil the national dream of being the first African Nation to win the world cup.

He assures the NFF and the team, of the fullest possible support of the Federal Government and all Nigerians in their quest to win even greater glory for Nigeria at the world cup finals in Brazil.

Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 16, 2013
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LAMIDO NEVER TOLD PRESIDENT JONATHAN OF $250 MILLION BRIBE ALLEGEDLY COLLECTED BY MINISTER

We have noted with much regret, the grossly irresponsible, false and mischievous claim by the Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Sule Lamido that President Goodluck Jonathan has refused to act on information that a serving minister recently collected a bribe of $250 million from an oil company.

The Presidency views the patently bogus allegation reportedly made by the Governor in a radio interview yesterday as an unacceptable and callous attempt to unjustly impugn the integrity of President Jonathan and cast aspersions on the seriousness of his Administration's efforts to curb corruption.

The allegation and the claim by Alhaji Lamido that he informed President Jonathan of the acceptance of the huge bribe by an unnamed minister is absolutely without any foundation in fact or reality because no such communication has ever taken place between them.

We abhor Governor Lamido's descent to the unscrupulous, reckless and thoughtless peddling of arrant falsehood in a puerile effort to score cheap political points against President Jonathan for personal and sectional political gains.

If, as he claims, Alhaji Lamido has credible information about a minister receiving the said amount as bribe, he should publicly name the minister involved without  delay and provide evidence to support his allegation.

In the event that he is unable to do so, he should be prepared to offer an unreserved apology to the President and Nigerians for his unwarranted and unjust effort to denigrate, disparage and malign the President and the Federal Government.

While the Jonathan Presidency will continue to make corrupt public officials answerable for their actions, it will not succumb to harassment and blackmail by self-seeking politicians jostling for personal advantage.

Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 15, 2013
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PRESIDENT JONATHAN SADDENED BY FORMER ASUU PRESIDENT’S DEATH

PRESIDENT JONATHAN SADDENED BY FORMER ASUU PRESIDENT'S DEATH
On behalf of himself and the Federal Government, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan commiserates with the leadership and members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) on the tragic death today of  former ASUU President, Dr. Festus Iyayi.

President Jonathan also extends sincere condolences to Dr. Iyayi's family as well as his colleagues, friends and associates across the country and beyond.

The President joins them in mourning the renowned academic and award-winning writer who rose to national prominence in the 1980s with his courageous leadership of ASUU in its struggle for a better working environment for teachers and academics in the nation's university system.

He is particularly dismayed by the fact that Dr. Iyayi has sadly lost his life while going to contribute to efforts to finally resolve the current ASUU strike which has unfortunately disrupted academics in most of the nation's universities for over four months.

President Jonathan prays that God Almighty will comfort all who mourn Dr. Iyayi and grant his soul eternal rest.

Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 12, 2013
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PRESIDENT JONATHAN'S SPEECH AT GOLDEN EAGLETS RECEPTION

Remarks by

His Excellency, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR

On the

Occasion of the Reception for the Victorious Golden Eaglets of Nigeria

State House, Presidential Villa Abuja

Sunday 10th November, 2013

PROTOCOLS 1.         I am very pleased to host this special reception, in honour of our victorious Golden Eaglets, who by their outstanding performance and victory at the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates, have brought great pride and honour to our country and our continent.

Address by His Excellency, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR At the First African Legislative Summit, Abuja

Address by

His Excellency, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR

At the

First African Legislative Summit, Abuja

Monday 11th November, 2013

PROTOCOLS
1.            On behalf of the Government and People of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I warmly welcome you all - our highly esteemed guests and distinguished parliamentarians from across Africa and beyond, to Abuja, for this very important First African Legislative Summit.

PHOTOS: PRESIDENT JONATHAN HOSTS GOLDEN EAGLETS

SPECIAL RECEPTION IN HONOUR OF THE GOLDEN EAGLETS OF NIGERIA AT THE
PRESIDENTIAL VILLA ABUJA GOLDEN EAGLETS OF NIGERIA WON THE UAE 2013 FIFA U-17 WORLD CUP

PIC 1. PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN (3RD L); VICE-PRESIDENT NAMADI SAMBO
(2ND L); SENATE PRESIDENT DAVID MARK (L) WITH THE VICTORIOUS GOLDEN
EAGLETS DURING A SPECIAL RECEPTION IN THEIR HONOUR AT THE PRESIDENTIAL
VILLA ABUJA ON SUNDAY (10/11/13).

PIC 2. PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN RECEIVING THE GOLDEN CUP WON BY THE GOLDEN EAGLETS OF NIGERIA AT THE UAE 2013 FIFA U-17 WORLD CUP ON SUNDAY IN ABUJA. WITH HIM ARE: FROM LEFT; VICE-PRESIDENT NAMADI SAMBO; TEAM CAPTAIN MUSA MUHAMMED SHEHU; PRESIDENT NIGERIA FOOTBALL FEDERATION, ALHAJI AMINU MAIGARI;PDP NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, ALHAJI BAMANGA TUKUR AND THE THE MINISTER OF SPORTS, MALAM BOLA ABDULLAHI.

PIC 3. PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHA RECEIVING GOLDEN CUP WON BY THE GOLDEN EAGLETS AT THE THE UAE 2013 FIFA U-17 FROM THE MINISTER OF SPORTS, MALAM
BOLA ABDULLAHI DURING A SPECIAL RECEPTION IN HONOUR OF THE GOLDEN EAGLETS OF NIGERIA AT THE PRESIDENTIAL VILLA ABUJA
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Nigeria's Golden Eaglets win U17 World Cup

Nigeria became the most successful team in FIFA U-17 World Cup history with a 3-0 win over holders Mexico at the Mohammad Bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. The final was a rematch of the 6-1 win Nigeria inflicted on the Mexicans in Group F play and sees the Golden Eaglets lay hands on the junior world trophy for the fourth time in their history, one better than South American giants Brazil. When the final whistle went in the UAE capital, fans and players alike rejoiced, fingers pointed to the sky, with what has become the traditional Nigerian celebration of: "yes, yes yes!"
Mexico kept the ball for a full two minutes at the start of the game, moving it around well and making the Nigerians chase. El Tri even managed the first chance on goal after six minutes. Osvaldo Rodriguez crossed from the left, but Alejandro Diaz couldn't keep his close-range effort the right side of the post. Two minutes on and Ivan Ochoa – who scored twice in the semi-final win over Argentina – saw his off-balance header pushed over the bar by Dele Alampasu.

THE WORLD WILL NO LONGER TOLERATE MILITARY IN GOVERNANCE – PRESIDENT JONATHAN

President Goodluck Jonathan Friday in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau warned that the global community was no longer inclined to tolerate a role in governance by the military in Africa and other parts of the world.
Addressing a special session of the National Peoples's Assembly during his visit to Guinea-Bissau, President Jonathan called on the country's Armed Forces to embrace total respect for democracy and constitutionalism in the interest of their nation.
"It is no longer fashionable today to see the military parading themselves as the custodians of political power. Rather, it is fashionable for the military to embrace the protection, preservation and total respect for constitutional order and democracy in order to build a prosperous and an egalitarian society," President Jonathan said at the session which was also attended by members of the diplomatic corps and representatives of civil society organizations.

PRESIDENT JONATHAN TO HOST VICTORIOUS GOLDEN EAGLETS ON SUNDAY

On behalf of himself, the Federal Government and all Nigerians, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan congratulates the Golden Eaglets of Nigeria on their 3-0 triumph over Mexico in the final match of the 2013 FIFA Under-17 World Soccer Championship played Friday evening in Abu Dhabi.

President Jonathan joins other very proud and happy Nigerians in saluting the glorious achievement of the Eaglets in winning the Under-17 Soccer Championship for an unprecedented fourth time.

The President commends the young Eaglets for the exemplary commitment, dedication, resilience, determination, patriotism and unity of purpose they displayed through-out the tournament to make Nigeria the World's Under-17 Football Champion once again.

In fulfillment of his promise of a heroes' welcome for the triumphant Golden Eaglets on their return home, President Jonathan will host a grand reception for the team at the Banquet Hall of the State House at 1900 Hours on Sunday, November 10, 2013 in appreciation of the great honour and glory they have brought to their fatherland.

The President also urges the leadership of the Nigerian Football Federation to strive to ensure that the world-conquering Eaglets, who have shown such immense potentials as youngsters, are  properly nurtured, trained and developed to represent the nation at higher levels in future international football competitions.

He wishes the Golden Eaglets and their handlers a safe journey home and looks forward to receiving them in Abuja on Sunday.

Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 8, 2013
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PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN RECEIVES PRESIDENT IBRAHIM BOUBACAR KEITA OF MALI IN ABUJA

PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN RECEIVES PRESIDENT  IBRAHIM BOUBACAR KEITA OF MALI IN ABUJA.

PIC PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN (R) WELCOMING PRESIDENT IBRAHIM BOUBACAR KEITA OF MALI TO THE PRESIDENTIAL VILLA ABUJA ON THURSDAY NIGHT (7/11/13)
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President Jonathan's Speech at the Centenary Anniversary of the City of Port Harcourt

Address by
His Excellency, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR
On the
Occasion of the Centenary Anniversary Commemoration of Port Harcourt City
Thursday 7th November, 2013
PROTOCOLS
1.             It is great to be home, in Port Harcourt, to join you all in tribute to a city, which in the 100 years since that faithful day of 30th August 1913, has done so much for so many. At 100, the city of Port Harcourt is still roaring with potentials, as it appears strongly determined to assert its well-earned position as a comprehensive industrial, entertainment and scholastic hub. There can be no doubt that this is indeed a special city; not only is it a few months older than modern Nigeria; its streets are literally paved with history, and legacies.

PRESIDENT JONATHAN TO VISIT NIGERIAN CONTINGENT IN ECOWAS MISSION TO GUINEA-BISSAU

President Goodluck Jonathan will embark on a two-day diplomatic shuttle to Guinea-Bissau and Gambia tomorrow, Friday, November 8, 2013.

President Jonathan will, in continuation of his duties as Chairperson of the ECOWAS Contact Group on Guinea-Bissau, first fly to the country to meet with leaders of the Armed Forces of Guinea-Bissau and visit the Nigerian contingent in the ECOWAS Mission in Guinea-Bissau at Camp Bras, Bissau.

The President is also scheduled to participate in a programme at the National Peoples' Assembly and meet Nigerians resident in Guinea-Bissau before leaving the country on Friday evening for Banjul, Gambia where he will confer with President Yahya Jammeh on bilateral and multilateral issues.

President Jonathan who will be accompanied by the Minister of Information and Supervising Minister of Defence, Mr. Labaran Maku, the Minister of the FCT, Senator Bala Mohammed and the Minister of State (Foreign Affairs), Dr. Nurudeen Mohammed will return to Abuja on Saturday.

Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 7, 2013
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PRESIDENT JONATHAN SENDS DELEGATION LED BY MARK TO CHEER EAGLETS TO VICTORY

President Goodluck Jonathan has constituted a high-powered delegation headed by the Senate President, Senator David Mark to represent the Federal Government at tomorrow's FIFA Under-17 World Soccer Finals between Nigeria and Mexico in the United Arab Emirates.

Other members of the delegation who President Jonathan has charged to ensure that the Golden Eaglets receive all necessary support and motivation for victory include the Minister of Special Duties, Alhaji  Tanimu Turaki, the Minister of Labour, Chief Emeka Wogu, the Minister of Water Resources, Mrs. Sarah Ochekpe and the Minister of State, FCT, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide.

The President told the delegation to reassure the Golden Eaglets and their handlers of his personal confidence and expectation that they will maintain their excellent track-record in this year's Championship and crown their winning performances with another victory against the Mexicans tomorrow.

President Jonathan also conveyed to the Eaglets, through the delegation, the best wishes of all Nigerians for their victory and promised the team that together with all other patriotic Nigerians, within and outside the country, he will be cheering them on to victory during the match.

He looks forward to receiving them at the Presidential Villa and showing them the full appreciation of the nation when, as expected, they return in triumph to Nigeria.

Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 7, 2013
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PRESIDENT JONATHAN APPOINTS NEW DG OF NATIONAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY

President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has approved the appointment of Ambassador Ayo Oke as the new Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA).

Ambassador Oke who hails from Oyo State takes over from the outgoing Director-General of the Agency, Ambassador Ezekiel Olaniyi Oladeji whose tenure has elapsed.

Ambassador Oke is a career diplomat who was formerly at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London. Until his appointment as Director-General, he was the Director (Regions) at the Headquarters of the NIA.

President Jonathan has similarly approved the appointments of Mr. E.O. Okafor (Anambra State) as Deputy Director-General (Operations) and Mr. Arap A. Yadam (Plateau State) as Deputy Director-General (Administration) of the NIA.

All three appointments are with immediate effect.

Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 7, 2013
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BRING THE WORLD CUP HOME – PRESIDENT JONATHAN URGES EAGLETS

BRING THE WORLD CUP HOME – PRESIDENT JONATHAN URGES EAGLETS
President Goodluck Jonathan heartily congratulates the Golden Eaglets of Nigeria on their qualification for the final match of the ongoing FIFA under-17 World Soccer Championship in the United Arab Emirates.

The President joins other very proud and happy Nigerians within and outside the country in applauding the Eaglets' enthralling 3-0 victory over their Swedish opponents in the Semi-Final match played this evening.

As the Eaglets prepare for the final march against the Mexican team, President Jonathan urges them not to be over-confident or take victory for granted, but to stay focused, train well and deploy their full arsenal of strength, determination and artistry once again to ensure that they overcome the Mexicans once again and return home with the Under-17 World Cup.

The President assures the Eaglets and their handlers of the continued prayers, best wishes and fullest support of the Federal Government and all Nigerians as they strive to achieve ultimate victory in the competition.

He looks forward to receiving them at the Presidential Villa when they triumphantly return to Nigeria.

Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
November 5, 2013
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PRESIDENT JONATHAN MOURNS SPEAKER OF TARABA HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY

President Goodluck Jonathan has received with sadness news of the sudden death of the Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly, Mr. Haruna Tsokwa.

On behalf of himself and the Federal Government, President Jonathan extends heartfelt condolences to the late Speaker's family, as well as the government and people of Taraba State.

The President recalls Mr. Tsokwa's commendable role in restoring political stability to Taraba State after recent crises and urges political leaders in the state to honour the late Speaker's memory by ensuring that peace and order continue to reign in Taraba State after his sad and untimely demise.

President Jonathan prays that God Almighty will comfort the late Speakers family, his colleagues in the Taraba State House of Assembly, his friends and political associates as they mourn the peace-loving patriot and true democrat.

Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President,
(Media &Publicity)
November 05, 2013
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PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN MEETS ASUU LEADERSHIP IN ABUJA

PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN MEETS ASUU LEADERSHIP IN ABUJA

PIC  FROM LEFT: PRESIDENT GOOLUCK JONATHAN; VICE-PRESIDENT NAMADI SAMBO; ASSU VICE-PRESIDENT; PROF BIODUN OGUNYEMI AND THE ASUU PRESIDENT, DR NASIR ISA FAGGE DURING A MEETING WITH THE PRESIDENT AT THE PRESIDENTIAL VILLA ABUJA ON MONDAY (4/11/13)
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