TNN.ng

Jonathan In Surprise Visit To Mubi, Adamawa State

<div style="text-align: justify;">
President Goodluck Jonathan is currently on a surprise visit to Adamawa State.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3VgVFpdkD9LfD2ytvguzQ3m00rNWNghljmlz_LwY1VKORAo7Km-9V4fk6e-Uw12G5aC3hoT2jurCa0K3PY-14xSeSXIcoN7KDjcVmzgmmNy7IhC4d9UrQYz9fzhOU1XBzKDt7-RM-0XEE/s1600/GEJ+Mubi2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3VgVFpdkD9LfD2ytvguzQ3m00rNWNghljmlz_LwY1VKORAo7Km-9V4fk6e-Uw12G5aC3hoT2jurCa0K3PY-14xSeSXIcoN7KDjcVmzgmmNy7IhC4d9UrQYz9fzhOU1XBzKDt7-RM-0XEE/s1600/GEJ+Mubi2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Adamawa is one of the states currently being terrorised by members of the Boko Haram sect.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Accompanied by the the National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki; service chiefs and the state governor, Bala Ngilari, the President is said to be touring troubled towns in the state like Mubi and Vimtim among others.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A source said the visit was designed for the President to interact with soldiers in the battlefield and assess territories already reclaimed by troops from the insurgents.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It will be recalled that Jonathan had on January 15 paid a similar surprise visit to Maiduguri, Borno State believed to be the stronghold of the sect.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI5xTmxoIGDAlaRKG0hyKwDDgixxATCN9kAExAkiu3LHSi5Gkw0_yfAMclW818Cfab1qbBZkbrvMSGtlPk3f7-RcXNLiZKhGw9ezaUmkJPP2KqH4_bOJK7PFaqzj2yACt3njs5COX-ZCI9/s1600/GEJ+Mubi1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI5xTmxoIGDAlaRKG0hyKwDDgixxATCN9kAExAkiu3LHSi5Gkw0_yfAMclW818Cfab1qbBZkbrvMSGtlPk3f7-RcXNLiZKhGw9ezaUmkJPP2KqH4_bOJK7PFaqzj2yACt3njs5COX-ZCI9/s1600/GEJ+Mubi1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7LZhC_Jc5td1Jdv73qR6WN3-N51E9TQR7FoBQtcy-aSau-lOBMnRO5aK49OGoaSAP-nDd5UWtwOR5zZtAeKZl5PtmR8zGPlM59n_WqEjJ-i9nIkpqYTv6TZ7iDEJn3lXI-4H0JQD_lBrw/s1600/GEJ+Mubi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7LZhC_Jc5td1Jdv73qR6WN3-N51E9TQR7FoBQtcy-aSau-lOBMnRO5aK49OGoaSAP-nDd5UWtwOR5zZtAeKZl5PtmR8zGPlM59n_WqEjJ-i9nIkpqYTv6TZ7iDEJn3lXI-4H0JQD_lBrw/s1600/GEJ+Mubi.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Story Credit: <a href="http://www.punchng.com/news/jonathan-pays-surprise-visit-to-adamawa/">PUNCH</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Photo Credit: VANGUARD</b></div>

Jonathan In Surprise Visit To Mubi, Adamawa State

President Goodluck Jonathan is currently on a surprise visit to Adamawa State. Adamawa is one of the states currently being terrorised by members of the Boko Haram sect. Accompanied by the the Nation…

26 Feb 2015

VIDEO: In Case You Missed It - Buhari Speaks At Chatham House

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY14duNcGAjTijQz7eKzWFp9acTjRFCqwp-56NnuDyoFFJV-EyWsFtqMT1ae6RluEpOWc32svm2OGy-YLIovJSudfCtiqJVOm8LL_Qtgv_ggr8MuuGm61q_MwifnVSaQV-POcRZqd0-G-y/s1600/GMB+Chatham2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY14duNcGAjTijQz7eKzWFp9acTjRFCqwp-56NnuDyoFFJV-EyWsFtqMT1ae6RluEpOWc32svm2OGy-YLIovJSudfCtiqJVOm8LL_Qtgv_ggr8MuuGm61q_MwifnVSaQV-POcRZqd0-G-y/s1600/GMB+Chatham2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The presidential candidate of the APC, Gen Muhammadu Buhari was a guest speaker at Chatham House in Central London Thursday, February 26 where he addressed world political and economic leaders on Nigeria's democracy and her march towards another election in a couple of weeks from now.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The theme of the discussion which was chaired by former British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Sir Richard Gozney and had many Nigerians in attendance including several APC stalwarts like Governors Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State and Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State is <i>Prospects for Democratic Consolidation in Africa: Nigeria’s Transition</i>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Below is the video of the Gen Buhari's speech at the event:</div>
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Gm58FyEEDXc" width="640"></iframe>

VIDEO: In Case You Missed It - Buhari Speaks At Chatham House

The presidential candidate of the APC, Gen Muhammadu Buhari was a guest speaker at Chatham House in Central London Thursday, February 26 where he addressed world political and economic leaders on Nig…

26 Feb 2015

VIDEOS: The Unreported Chartham House Extras

<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj23m0HoW1Ds_dgQdUywdsnWGQ8j_DhZRAOTw2TarHR7qS5_BuB4Mu7CBTA3TdoqUasmWS5ebubgXo2gEKoyCY_yfeF8utzF334MCWBkoXpbQ1KTImxHb5SlHi9lKf6S3iS7wkvByhMR3u2/s1600/Chartham+House+Police.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj23m0HoW1Ds_dgQdUywdsnWGQ8j_DhZRAOTw2TarHR7qS5_BuB4Mu7CBTA3TdoqUasmWS5ebubgXo2gEKoyCY_yfeF8utzF334MCWBkoXpbQ1KTImxHb5SlHi9lKf6S3iS7wkvByhMR3u2/s1600/Chartham+House+Police.jpg" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>The APC presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari was at Chatham House London today to honor a talk event having him as a speaker. He was accompanied by the chiefatains of his party among whom are Governors Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), Adams Oshiomhole (Edo), Rochas Okorocha (Imo), and the national leader Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Apart from these men of APC, the party's UK Chapter was also fully represented in the crowd of supporters that massed outside Chatham House. So also were the supporters of President Goodluck Jonathan and the PDP who attended the event to demonstrate to the world why General Buhari should not be president.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Below are some embedded videos from a Nigerian journalist, <b>Rose Graham</b> who was at Chatham House to report those scenes no media house will report.</div>
<br />
Enjoy them!<br />
<br />
<b>When APC and PDP Supporters Exchanged Verbal Attacks</b><br />
<div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152755163346939" data-width="640">
<div class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152755163346939">Post</a> by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rose.peter.982">Rose P. Graham</a>.</div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>The Clash Of Supporters</b><br />
<div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152755121921939" data-width="640">
<div class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152755121921939">Post</a> by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rose.peter.982">Rose P. Graham</a>.<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<b>When Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha Arrived</b><br />
<div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152755148461939" data-width="640">
<div class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152755148461939">Post</a> by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rose.peter.982">Rose P. Graham</a>.<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<b>And Some APC Supporters Confronted the UK Police</b><br />
<div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152755239841939" data-width="640">
<div class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152755239841939">Post</a> by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rose.peter.982">Rose P. Graham</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Photo and Video Credits: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rose.peter.982">Rose Graham</a></b></div>
</div>

VIDEOS: The Unreported Chartham House Extras

The APC presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari was at Chatham House London today to honor a talk event having him as a speaker. He was accompanied by the chiefatains of his party among whom…

26 Feb 2015

Full Text Of General Buhari's Speech At Chatham House, London

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDgRRCazNPNX6ueTiHuzCPu3O8GlEW4hi9V4gkm2ke9_evD6v460JSWW2CYMngKt49l9XDsw3UoFxhwzWFCgOYwAQRyfcflY2i0uI3r9ebALyPhE9rldcWHJi13-v9fQ-bHZFDTOyhUvHb/s1600/GMB+Chatham1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDgRRCazNPNX6ueTiHuzCPu3O8GlEW4hi9V4gkm2ke9_evD6v460JSWW2CYMngKt49l9XDsw3UoFxhwzWFCgOYwAQRyfcflY2i0uI3r9ebALyPhE9rldcWHJi13-v9fQ-bHZFDTOyhUvHb/s1600/GMB+Chatham1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The presidential candidate of the APC, Gen Muhammadu Buhari was a guest speaker at Chatham House in Central London Thursday, February 26 where he addressed world political and economic leaders on Nigeria's democracy and her march towards another election in a couple of weeks from now.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The theme of the discussion which was chaired by former British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Sir Richard Gozney and had many Nigerians in attendance including several APC stalwarts like Governors Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State and Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State is <i>Prospects for Democratic Consolidation in Africa: Nigeria’s Transition</i>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Below is the full text of Gen Buhari's speech at the event:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Permit me to start by thanking Chatham House for the invitation to talk about this important topic at this crucial time. When speaking about Nigeria overseas, I normally prefer to be my country’s public relations and marketing officer, extolling her virtues and hoping to attract investments and tourists. But as we all know, Nigeria is now battling with many challenges, and if I refer to them, I do so only to impress on our friends in the United Kingdom that we are quite aware of our shortcomings and are doing our best to address them.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The 2015 general election in Nigeria is generating a lot of interests within and outside the country. This is understandable. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country and largest economy, is at a defining moment, a moment that has great implications beyond the democratic project and beyond the borders of my dear country.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So let me say upfront that the global interest in Nigeria’s landmark election is not misplaced at all and indeed should be commended; for this is an election that has serious import for the world. I urge the international community to continue to focus on Nigeria at this very critical moment. Given increasing global linkages, it is in our collective interests that the postponed elections should hold on the rescheduled dates; that they should be free and fair; that their outcomes should be respected by all parties; and that any form of extension, under whichever guise, is unconstitutional and will not be tolerated.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the dissolution of the USSR in 1991, the collapse of communism and the end of the Cold War, democracy became the dominant and most preferred system of government across the globe. That global transition has been aptly captured as the triumph of democracy and the ‘most pre-eminent political idea of our time.’ On a personal note, the phased end of the USSR was a turning point for me. It convinced me that change can be brought about without firing a single shot.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As you all know, I had been a military head of state in Nigeria for twenty months. We intervened because we were unhappy with the state of affairs in our country. We wanted to arrest the drift. Driven by patriotism, influenced by the prevalence and popularity of such drastic measures all over Africa and elsewhere, we fought our way to power. But the global triumph of democracy has shown that another and a preferable path to change is possible. It is an important lesson I have carried with me since, and a lesson that is not lost on the African continent.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In the last two decades, democracy has grown strong roots in Africa. Elections, once so rare, are now so commonplace. As at the time I was a military head of state between 1983 and 1985, only four African countries held regular multi-party elections. But the number of electoral democracies in Africa, according to Freedom House, jumped to 10 in 1992/1993 then to 18 in 1994/1995 and to 24 in 2005/2006. According to the New York Times, 42 of the 48 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa conducted multi-party elections between 1990 and 2002.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The newspaper also reported that between 2000 and 2002, ruling parties in four African countries (Senegal, Mauritius, Ghana and Mali) peacefully handed over power to victorious opposition parties. In addition, the proportion of African countries categorized as not free by Freedom House declined from 59% in 1983 to 35% in 2003. Without doubt, Africa has been part of the current global wave of democratisation.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But the growth of democracy on the continent has been uneven. According to Freedom House, the number of electoral democracies in Africa slipped from 24 in 2007/2008 to 19 in 2011/2012; while the percentage of countries categorised as ‘not free’ assuming for the sake of argument that we accept their definition of “free” increased from 35% in 2003 to 41% in 2013. Also, there have been some reversals at different times in Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Cote D’Ivoire, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Lesotho, Mali, Madagascar, Mauritania and Togo. We can choose to look at the glass of democracy in Africa as either half full or half empty.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
While you can’t have representative democracy without elections, it is equally important to look at the quality of the elections and to remember that mere elections do not democracy make. It is globally agreed that democracy is not an event, but a journey. And that the destination of that journey is democratic consolidation – that state where democracy has become so rooted and so routine and widely accepted by all actors.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With this important destination in mind, it is clear that though many African countries now hold regular elections, very few of them have consolidated the practice of democracy. It is important to also state at this point that just as with elections, a consolidated democracy cannot be an end by itself. I will argue that it is not enough to hold a series of elections or even to peacefully alternate power among parties.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It is much more important that the promise of democracy goes beyond just allowing people to freely choose their leaders. It is much more important that democracy should deliver on the promise of choice, of freedoms, of security of lives and property, of transparency and accountability, of rule of law, of good governance and of shared prosperity. It is very important that the promise embedded in the concept of democracy, the promise of a better life for the generality of the people, is not delivered in the breach.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now, let me quickly turn to Nigeria. As you all know, Nigeria’s fourth republic is in its 16th year and this general election will be the fifth in a row. This is a major sign of progress for us, given that our first republic lasted five years and three months, the second republic ended after four years and two months and the third republic was a still-birth. However, longevity is not the only reason why everyone is so interested in this election.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The major difference this time around is that for the very first time since transition to civil rule in 1999, the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is facing its stiffest opposition so far from our party the All Progressives Congress (APC). We once had about 50 political parties, but with no real competition. Now Nigeria is transitioning from a dominant party system to a competitive electoral polity, which is a major marker on the road to democratic consolidation. As you know, peaceful alternation of power through competitive elections have happened in Ghana, Senegal, Malawi and Mauritius in recent times. The prospects of democratic consolidation in Africa will be further brightened when that eventually happens in Nigeria.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But there are other reasons why Nigerians and the whole world are intensely focussed on this year’s elections, chief of which is that the elections are holding in the shadow of huge security, economic and social uncertainties in Africa’s most populous country and largest economy. On insecurity, there is a genuine cause for worry, both within and outside Nigeria. Apart from the civil war era, at no other time in our history has Nigeria been this insecure.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Boko Haram has sadly put Nigeria on the terrorism map, killing more than 13,000 of our nationals, displacing millions internally and externally, and at a time holding on to portions of our territory the size of Belgium. What has been consistently lacking is the required leadership in our battle against insurgency. I, as a retired general and a former head of state, have always known about our soldiers: they are capable, well trained, patriotic, brave and always ready to do their duty in the service of our country.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You all can bear witness to the gallant role of our military in Burma, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Darfur and in many other peacekeeping operations in several parts of the world. But in the matter of this insurgency, our soldiers have neither received the necessary support nor the required incentives to tackle this problem. The government has also failed in any effort towards a multi-dimensional response to this problem leading to a situation in which we have now become dependent on our neighbours to come to our rescue.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Let me assure you that if I am elected president, the world will have no cause to worry about Nigeria as it has had to recently; that Nigeria will return to its stabilising role in West Africa; and that no inch of Nigerian territory will ever be lost to the enemy because we will pay special attention to the welfare of our soldiers in and out of service, we will give them adequate and modern arms and ammunitions to work with, we will improve intelligence gathering and border controls to choke Boko Haram’s financial and equipment channels, we will be tough on terrorism and tough on its root causes by initiating a comprehensive economic development plan promoting infrastructural development, job creation, agriculture and industry in the affected areas. We will always act on time and not allow problems to irresponsibly fester, and I, Muhammadu Buhari, will always lead from the front and return Nigeria to its leadership role in regional and international efforts to combat terrorism.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On the economy, the fall in prices of oil has brought our economic and social stress into full relief. After the rebasing exercise in April 2014, Nigeria overtook South Africa as Africa’s largest economy. Our GDP is now valued at $510 billion and our economy rated 26th in the world. Also on the bright side, inflation has been kept at single digit for a while and our economy has grown at an average of 7% for about a decade.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But it is more of paper growth, a growth that, on account of mismanagement, profligacy and corruption, has not translated to human development or shared prosperity. A development economist once said three questions should be asked about a country’s development: one, what is happening to poverty? Two, what is happening to unemployment? And three, what is happening to inequality?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The answers to these questions in Nigeria show that the current administration has created two economies in one country, a sorry tale of two nations: one economy for a few who have so much in their tiny island of prosperity; and the other economy for the many who have so little in their vast ocean of misery.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Even by official figures, 33.1% of Nigerians live in extreme poverty. That’s at almost 60 million, almost the population of the United Kingdom. There is also the unemployment crisis simmering beneath the surface, ready to explode at the slightest stress, with officially 23.9% of our adult population and almost 60% of our youth unemployed. We also have one of the highest rates of inequalities in the world.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With all these, it is not surprising that our performance on most governance and development indicators (like Mo Ibrahim Index on African Governance and UNDP’s Human Development Index.) are unflattering. With fall in the prices of oil, which accounts for more than 70% of government revenues, and lack of savings from more than a decade of oil boom, the poor will be disproportionately impacted.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In the face of dwindling revenues, a good place to start the repositioning of Nigeria’s economy is to swiftly tackle two ills that have ballooned under the present administration: waste and corruption. And in doing this, I will, if elected, lead the way, with the force of personal example.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On corruption, there will be no confusion as to where I stand. Corruption will have no place and the corrupt will not be appointed into my administration. First and foremost, we will plug the holes in the budgetary process. Revenue producing entities such as NNPC and Customs and Excise will have one set of books only. Their revenues will be publicly disclosed and regularly audited. The institutions of state dedicated to fighting corruption will be given independence and prosecutorial authority without political interference.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But I must emphasise that any war waged on corruption should not be misconstrued as settling old scores or a witch-hunt. I’m running for President to lead Nigeria to prosperity and not adversity.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In reforming the economy, we will use savings that arise from blocking these leakages and the proceeds recovered from corruption to fund our party’s social investments programmes in education, health, and safety nets such as free school meals for children, emergency public works for unemployed youth and pensions for the elderly.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As a progressive party, we must reform our political economy to unleash the pent-up ingenuity and productivity of the Nigerian people thus freeing them from the curse of poverty. We will run a private sector-led economy but maintain an active role for government through strong regulatory oversight and deliberate interventions and incentives to diversify the base of our economy, strengthen productive sectors, improve the productive capacities of our people and create jobs for our teeming youths.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In short, we will run a functional economy driven by a worldview that sees growth not as an end by itself, but as a tool to create a society that works for all, rich and poor alike. On March 28, Nigeria has a decision to make. To vote for the continuity of failure or to elect progressive change. I believe the people will choose wisely.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In sum, I think that given its strategic importance, Nigeria can trigger a wave of democratic consolidation in Africa. But as a starting point we need to get this critical election right by ensuring that they go ahead, and depriving those who want to scuttle it the benefit of derailing our fledgling democracy. That way, we will all see democracy and democratic consolidation as tools for solving pressing problems in a sustainable way, not as ends in themselves.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Prospects for Democratic Consolidation in Africa: Nigeria’s Transition</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Permit me to close this discussion on a personal note. I have heard and read references to me as a former dictator in many respected British newspapers including the well regarded Economist. Let me say without sounding defensive that dictatorship goes with military rule, though some might be less dictatorial than others. I take responsibility for whatever happened under my watch.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I cannot change the past. But I can change the present and the future. So before you is a former military ruler and a converted democrat who is ready to operate under democratic norms and is subjecting himself to the rigours of democratic elections for the fourth time.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You may ask: why is he doing this? This is a question I ask myself all the time too. And here is my humble answer: because the work of making Nigeria great is not yet done, because I still believe that change is possible, this time through the ballot, and most importantly, because I still have the capacity and the passion to dream and work for a Nigeria that will be respected again in the comity of nations and that all Nigerians will be proud of.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I thank you for listening.</div>

Full Text Of General Buhari's Speech At Chatham House, London

26 Feb 2015

Chatham House: PDP Hired Protesters Don't Know Buhari's 'Sins' [VIDEO]

<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglaWZpFsoJujGgIBlxcER_F8f86T678Pl8_3DV7QDNto-t5abgzNE4Tirs0tfkq6wNeHAQhzX6FggVKszcXcDx1vSYT9hz5x1151fTOeoFfzjIMqmfAlpvOXJnXbOBrNwpWtzIWmea4mwN/s1600/pro-GEJ2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglaWZpFsoJujGgIBlxcER_F8f86T678Pl8_3DV7QDNto-t5abgzNE4Tirs0tfkq6wNeHAQhzX6FggVKszcXcDx1vSYT9hz5x1151fTOeoFfzjIMqmfAlpvOXJnXbOBrNwpWtzIWmea4mwN/s1600/pro-GEJ2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Some UK-based Nigerian journalists have done wonderfully well in reporting events inside and outside the Chatham House in London where the APC presidential candidate had just finished participating in an event centered on Nigerian democracy. One of such journalists is Dare Lasisi.</b><br />
<br />
Also, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rose.peter.982"><b>Rose Graham</b></a> of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) has been doing a great job out there in London. She has kept us glued to her Facebook wall for minute-by-minute update on happenings at the Chatham House in London.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The Nigeria Newsroom</b> have been following these two personalities to update our readers on happenings at the Chatham House.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Below, we embed a video posted by Rose on her Facebook page for your viewing.<br />
<br />
After watching this video, I bet you'll sorry for Nigeria and Nigerians.<br />
<br />
Enjoy it!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div id="fb-root">
</div>
<script>(function(d, s, id) {  var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];  if (d.getElementById(id)) return;  js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id;  js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1";  fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));</script><br />
<div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152755079911939" data-width="640">
<div class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=10152755079911939">Post</a> by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rose.peter.982">Rose P. Graham</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Video Credit: Rose Graham</b><br />
<b>Photo Credit: Dare Lasisi</b></div>
</div>
</div>

Chatham House: PDP Hired Protesters Don't Know Buhari's 'Sins' [VIDEO]

Some UK-based Nigerian journalists have done wonderfully well in reporting events inside and outside the Chatham House in London where the APC presidential candidate had just finished participating i…

26 Feb 2015

PHOTOS: Metro Bus Teeters Off Johannesburg Bridge

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UVrihPJPqBJr3q1f7wnmxue1_NlLCqV_1qJlUARMc68yGHbq4nqKpQN56WOFs0Jzqdx9bRRlocoZ9ESAI7XGgqSobtOXu-dhtJlKsBZkKIT7h6Q2_q63LLg22AId4LFY9cJ-HMVtpJQX/s1600/SA+accident1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3UVrihPJPqBJr3q1f7wnmxue1_NlLCqV_1qJlUARMc68yGHbq4nqKpQN56WOFs0Jzqdx9bRRlocoZ9ESAI7XGgqSobtOXu-dhtJlKsBZkKIT7h6Q2_q63LLg22AId4LFY9cJ-HMVtpJQX/s1600/SA+accident1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>A metro bus did something no bus should do when it crashed and went off the Queen Elizabeth bridge in Braamfontein on Wednesday morning.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The bus ploughed into the side of the bridge and broke through a large section, crashing all the way down to bottom of the structure, metres away from Park Station.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The nose of the vehicle was planted firmly into the ground and emergency officials were standing near the broken glass and cement around it.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A large section of the road surrounding the wreckage was cordoned off while the road leading to the accident was also closed off.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaeF2YrQhVOMbop9vlEFLzdkE29Y8W-QHVUqC6l2XM9oR4riekDc3D8Yf_9MFOTSNLCoygqwM5nRKQ2ZYgDmaq2Zct3F7VUQYGoJauetmIRIhHV6NAPpNqH_fq7vx2BOJ9ma4YZ6GuDiat/s1600/SA+accident2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaeF2YrQhVOMbop9vlEFLzdkE29Y8W-QHVUqC6l2XM9oR4riekDc3D8Yf_9MFOTSNLCoygqwM5nRKQ2ZYgDmaq2Zct3F7VUQYGoJauetmIRIhHV6NAPpNqH_fq7vx2BOJ9ma4YZ6GuDiat/s1600/SA+accident2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The accident scene was a hive of activity with several Johannesburg Metro Police (JMPD) officers, emergency services and Johannesburg Road Agency (JRA) officials at the scene.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Several people braved the early morning drizzle to get a glimpse of the wreckage and take photos.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Motorists driving on the opposite lane slowed down to take pictures.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsY-JxGSfjBFdMFu1oOr7PxHZFMbJiVk-pp6lSIZvsYSZcfZtpwGJ5tSl4LKRnwBfkAKy8Rbq_UkbiARi9NGrbwIgjaxQQziWl6yT6BSsl50I8vaepRL8TU1HkD1jJ-b1tN9btyM3KwvRr/s1600/SA+accident3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsY-JxGSfjBFdMFu1oOr7PxHZFMbJiVk-pp6lSIZvsYSZcfZtpwGJ5tSl4LKRnwBfkAKy8Rbq_UkbiARi9NGrbwIgjaxQQziWl6yT6BSsl50I8vaepRL8TU1HkD1jJ-b1tN9btyM3KwvRr/s1600/SA+accident3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Pedestrians attempted to cross the cordoned off line to get a closer view of the bus, but were quickly reprimanded by officers who warned them to back away.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
ER24 spokesman Russel Meiring said there were no passengers in the bus and the driver escaped with a few minor injuries.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
JMPD spokeswoman Edna Mamonyane said the rain and the bus accident had caused major traffic back-ups throughout the city on Wednesday morning, <b><a href="http://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/gauteng/pics-bus-teeters-off-joburg-bridge-1.1823215#.VO4nknyUc4I">IOL News</a></b> reports.</div>

PHOTOS: Metro Bus Teeters Off Johannesburg Bridge

A metro bus did something no bus should do when it crashed and went off the Queen Elizabeth bridge in Braamfontein on Wednesday morning. The bus ploughed into the side of the bridge and broke through…

26 Feb 2015

London Met Police On High Alert As Buhari's Supporters And Opponents Storm Chatham House

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHAlWYBJwIPptocZXZU4qxyANUC_BTTi1VTL8nXgDm-Zc2WLlONunXfdaBoCKhmiak82qBhIEBdMHM8zc-Kc1MhxlKMtZbg5U0BMTXu3xRsuJKN_Nvwrjche2KFNjFFSfy-5Vrmzj5Xa0z/s1600/pro-GMBGEJ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHAlWYBJwIPptocZXZU4qxyANUC_BTTi1VTL8nXgDm-Zc2WLlONunXfdaBoCKhmiak82qBhIEBdMHM8zc-Kc1MhxlKMtZbg5U0BMTXu3xRsuJKN_Nvwrjche2KFNjFFSfy-5Vrmzj5Xa0z/s1600/pro-GMBGEJ.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>"London met police officers are passing through hard times to control Nigerian protesters at the Chatham house in London. You just need to be hear (sic) to feel the tension. There is a (sic) now battle line drawn by the police between pro GEJ and pro GMB supporters."</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The above were the words of a London-based Nigerian journalist and blogger, Mr <a href="https://www.facebook.com/dare.lasisi" style="font-weight: bold;">Dare Lasisi</a>, who is at the Chatham House in London to attend the event which features the presidential candidate of the main opposition party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), General Muhammadu Buhari (GMB).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN5Z3LPZXQawPll3aCAOokATZHvzBlNhdEHUfwcUlWPoUT0RDFz8jzINcqhMih2HKwPQqR62xxPeNgN09wBP4JMekxWhawO7daPjbpgrzWN4T5KlqcELKxHKHCzdAfnesSkYWoztHpRNo3/s1600/pro-GMB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN5Z3LPZXQawPll3aCAOokATZHvzBlNhdEHUfwcUlWPoUT0RDFz8jzINcqhMih2HKwPQqR62xxPeNgN09wBP4JMekxWhawO7daPjbpgrzWN4T5KlqcELKxHKHCzdAfnesSkYWoztHpRNo3/s1600/pro-GMB.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Group of pro-Buhari demonstrators at the Chatham House London (Photo: Dare Lasisi)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It was gathered that both supporters of President Goodluck Jonathan (GEJ) and the PDP as well as supporters of General Muhammadu Buhari and the APC arrived the Chatham House venue of the event in central London as early as 7:00am GMT to take vantage positions. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The pro-GEJ supporters are at Chatham House to protest and pass a message to the world, which Buhari is to address at the event, on the sins of the 72 years old former military ruler.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixT2t26HhowC77FJCHoHkpbsfenWPrLHZsqxp8iV4H-QXhJGcnXubfEg86W4QqMq5Ga-wU1IhvbU-WzNZ-lUEH0DWs_iTWbmWmSO1ZpHgv0qLeJBiyvTqgNH-ftqF_NHFFJHL77HDWV8ZD/s1600/pro-GEJ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixT2t26HhowC77FJCHoHkpbsfenWPrLHZsqxp8iV4H-QXhJGcnXubfEg86W4QqMq5Ga-wU1IhvbU-WzNZ-lUEH0DWs_iTWbmWmSO1ZpHgv0qLeJBiyvTqgNH-ftqF_NHFFJHL77HDWV8ZD/s1600/pro-GEJ.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Group of anti-Buhari demonstrators at the Chatham House London (Photo: Dare Lasisi)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To avert a violent clash among the two groups of supporters, the organizers of the event had requested for a beef up of security presence at the venue. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Details coming up later.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Photo Credit: Dare Lasisi</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>

London Met Police On High Alert As Buhari's Supporters And Opponents Storm Chatham House

"London met police officers are passing through hard times to control Nigerian protesters at the Chatham house in London. You just need to be hear (sic) to feel the tension. There is a (sic) now batt…

26 Feb 2015

Security Beefed Up At Chatham House As Buhari Addresses The World

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Y3QiVJyKx2vzNf4wFqxcf9-HRPW-nhXFtp2dQVy4dvXM6x5D6nCSPXVGbZtGnMZZwHpC4Tqu9RM49zUjsasPCXtzCEaWtglNqTg7ZiXwUGCzWj3O5Tw__CvLwYj1pfBOIFDBMEDSY_5p/s1600/BuhariFam64.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Y3QiVJyKx2vzNf4wFqxcf9-HRPW-nhXFtp2dQVy4dvXM6x5D6nCSPXVGbZtGnMZZwHpC4Tqu9RM49zUjsasPCXtzCEaWtglNqTg7ZiXwUGCzWj3O5Tw__CvLwYj1pfBOIFDBMEDSY_5p/s1600/BuhariFam64.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>All People’s Congress Presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari(rtd)  today will prove wrong claims that he has been hospitalised since arriving the Queen’s land over a week ago as he is billed to address a World political and press figures at the Royal Institute of International Affairs, Chatham House in the heart of the British Parliament  in Central London.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Buhari has been billed to  participate in an event entitled “Prospects for Democratic Consolidation in Africa: Nigeria’s Transition”.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If he appears, it would be his first public appearance since arriving London over a week ago.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
His non-appearance has fuelled speculations that his ailing condition may certify him as unfit to govern Nigeria if he wins the coming election. However, as the heat gathers for the occasion, there has been built-up tension with factions emerging from both sides of support and non-support for the former ddictator who remains emaciating and allegedly has been under care since arriving the United Kingdom.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It would however take his appearance today to douse the fear that he is hale and hearty and suitable for running for the election come next month.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Amid tension and anticipation that both Buhari faithful, PDP supporters and  some NGOs are gearing up for confrontation during the Central London address on Thursday,  British security authority have scaled up all protocol of venue access as it is claimed a huge crowd of both supporters, NGOs  and  oppositions are expected. They are  putting together strategies to douse tensions and  heated  atmosphere by detailing more police to man the venue..</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A source claimed that Chatham House want an assured tension free political atmosphere by beefing up security as it was gathered that only Chatham House staff members, APC Delegation list and a selected members of the press would be allowed to the event venue to minimise the risk of faction stand-offs.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Loyal media organizations from both sides have tensed up the political atmosphere both at home and in the Diaspora in different propaganda efforts to win hearts with social media groups and personal operators heating the polity through found and unfounded speculations to sell their ideas and candidates. The nations as it stands is in danger of anarchy and the outcome of Chatham appearance may determine further steps to be taken as the election approaches next month. Some NGO are also on queue to register their protests against Buhari’s feature as the APC, presidential candidate, claiming he has blood in his hands as a former  military dictator.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Credit: <a href="http://emn-news.com/security-beefed-up-at-chatham-house-as-buhari-apc-leaders-address-world-figures/">EMN News</a></b></div>

Security Beefed Up At Chatham House As Buhari Addresses The World

All People’s Congress Presidential candidate, General Muhammadu Buhari(rtd) today will prove wrong claims that he has been hospitalised since arriving the Queen’s land over a week ago as he is bille…

26 Feb 2015

Load more posts

TNN.ng

AdSense1

Jonathan In Surprise Visit To Mubi, Adamawa State

VIDEO: In Case You Missed It - Buhari Speaks At Chatham House

VIDEOS: The Unreported Chartham House Extras

Full Text Of General Buhari's Speech At Chatham House, London

Chatham House: PDP Hired Protesters Don't Know Buhari's 'Sins' [VIDEO]

PHOTOS: Metro Bus Teeters Off Johannesburg Bridge

London Met Police On High Alert As Buhari's Supporters And Opponents Storm Chatham House

Security Beefed Up At Chatham House As Buhari Addresses The World

Popular Posts

Labels

Archive