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Reviewing Otunba Gbenga Daniel political sagacity so far

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But this only lasted a short while, as he had to fight many battles in the process.

Remarkably, OGD operates what can best be termed the politics of the people. Not only is he loved and cherished by the people of Ogun state, he ensures that his political moves are in tandem with the desires of his people. That was why he had to leave the PDP to join the Labour Party. His reason for joining Labour Party was to build a platform that will serve as a proper check mate for irregularities in governance of the state. Though people in the PDP frowned at this but the masses joined him to follow the party. Labour Party became the most dominant opposition party in the state taking over from the PDP. While skeptic analysis said it was an act of desperation for him to have left PDP for Labour Party but majority of the people of Ogun State didn’t care, they started declaring their support for him. He became the voice of the masses speaking against unhealthy antics of the state government.

After much deliberations and reconciliation meetings orchestrated by the National Leadership of PDP, Gbenga Daniel returned to PDP in October 2014. He returned back to PDP with massive supporters from the Labour Party which became a big boost for the PDP. But as the years rolled by, the internal wrangling and power tussles within the party took on greater dimensions, en route the last general elections. Things looked as if they couldn’t get worse, but they did, as the PDP lost the elections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Politically, the PDP had lost its teeth within the political schemes in Ogun state. No longer was it the formidable party of yester years; this is notwithstanding OGD’s large followership in the state. Political pundits and analysts have for years posited that a move for the political gladiator away from the PDP and its many problems will be the best move for OGD’s political life as well as a win for the people that have come to love and trust him.

It, therefore, came as cheery news when he announced his return to politics on a formidable platform like the APC. OGD’s return to politics and the pitching of his tent with the APC marks something of a comeback for the Ijebu political titan, whose political exploits appeared irretrievably tainted by the internal wrangling and power tussle that afflicted the People’s Democratic Party.

Onboard APC, OGD relevance, political clout, prowess, etc, go beyond Ogun State to the national level for the greater good of the Nigerian people. This can be envisaged from his programme on Public Private Partnership which attracted several businesses into the state during his tenure. And why not? From education to health, sports, economy, agriculture, urban renewal and rural development, power, infrastructure, human development, housing, industrialisation, tourism and employment generation, OGD’s imprints in the state were phenomenal!

As at the last count, about 70 companies berthed in Ogun State from 2003 to 2011 with over 250,000 jobs provided through various employment generation schemes of the State government. In his eight years, the OGD Administration did more roads than all the administrations before it and most of these were done through direct labour with the Ministry of Works and the Ogun State Road Management Agency OGROMA. By utilising this method, costs were significantly saved while the confidence of indigenous engineers was reinstated in the people. The Olumo Rock resort was refurbished meeting international tourism standard, the MKO International Stadium Abeokuta was renovated and three other stadiums in other geo-political zones of the state were constructed to FIFA specifications.

The NYSC orientation camp in Sagamu is reputed to be the best in the country while the Tai Solarin College of Education was upgraded to University status making it the first in Nigeria and second in Africa. It was adjudged the best University of Education In Africa in 2011. The construction of a modern secretariat for civil servants in the state at a cost which beat the imagination of late President Umar Musa Yar’Adua who commissioned it remains a landmark.

The construction of the six-lane Lalubu Road – the commercial nerve centre of Abeokuta – without a single demolition of existing building was to become a standard in road constructions in Ogun State today.

For OGD, the governorship was a 24-hour job. The last project he commissioned, the OPIC PLAZA remains, till date, is the tallest structure in Ogun State.

Perhaps it is not immodest to say that the incredible performance of Otunba Gbenga Daniel is now a benchmark to measure the performance of future leaders of the gateway state. In the words of the Nobel Laureate himself, Professor Wole Soyinka, “The various projects embarked upon by Governor Daniel are laudable and practical”.

If his decisions have gained him so much love and respect from his teeming apostles and the good people of Ogun State in the past, then who dares question why a lion decided to roar again?

Ogidi Omo has once again thrown his hat into the ring. He is the APC senatorial candidate for Ogun East and given his antecedents, there is no gainsaying that the good people of his senatorial district are in for the best available representation at the national assembly.

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Nigeria Independence Fiesta 2023: Lagos Airport Hotel  to Host Green and White Party.

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A front line Nigerian events and communications company, PRIMAA Productions and Promotions, has announced a 3-day unlimited and exciting fun-packed “Nigeria Independence Fiesta” in celebration of the nation’s 63rd independence anniversary.

The event has been scheduled to be held at the prestigious Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja from Saturday September 30 to Monday, October 2, 2023.

Speaking about the event tagged “Green and White Party,” the organisers led by Prince Adeyemi Aseperi-Shonibare of Primaa Productions and Promotions, said the “event is designed for Nigerians to commemorate the 63rd anniversary and share a special day with families and friends in a very moderate but exquisite manner.

On her part,  the General Manager,  Lagos Airport Hotel, Mrs. Folashade A. Awe (FCA ) said; the “events are also aimed at providing a platform for an exciting get-together for associates, colleagues, families and friends on the national day is going to be fun parked days of celebration at the exclusive pool side of the prestigious Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. The events are packaged to deliver an outdoor unforgettable and exciting social event in celebration of Nigerians’ uniqueness.”

“The 3-day event which is to be celebrated with Nigerian contemporary music and dance will have a good number of Nigerian musicians and comedians thrilling and entertaining their fans in spectacular ways. The artists include Don P,  Kenny J, Hismusic, Young Lop, ACENUNKY, LYRIKA, Helix, Oluwafrozy, Macqelin, Omalicha(BlazeG), Emoh Grand and many more.

MC MACAVALI and MC 525, with the reputable DJ AK are going to be the DJ for the 3 days of unlimited fun of music, dance, comedy, swimming competitions, games and many more.”

The event is supported by Fresh FM, Goldmyne TV, Landmark Media limited, LASAA and exclusively packaged by 3P and Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja. It promises to be an exciting weekend with gate opening between 9am and 5pm daily and evening events from 7pm till fade.

Interestingly aside the entertainment galore and side attractions,  the Gate Pass also goes with specific benefits. While a child with N2,000 will have free drinks and an adult with N3,000 will be entitled to free drink ,a couple paying N5,000 gate pass will also get free drinks, and a family of four is N10,000  and will get free drinks.

Every ticket also attracts a 20% discount on Airport Hotel rooms. Your ticket can also win you a weekend getaway at Lagos Airport Hotel. (With Terms and conditions )
The dress code for every attendee is a touch of Green and White.

For Sponsorship and Support, please call : +2348138661114 or +2348033077759.
LAGOS AIRPORT HOTEL, HOTELIER OF DISTINCTION.

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Rotimi Ajanaku, others make Ministerial Team Lead of Power Minister

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The Ministry of Power is pleased to announce the commissioning of a dynamic and experienced ministerial team dedicated to providing technical support, project delivery coordination, stakeholder management, and media relations within the ministry. This strategic move aims to strengthen the ministry’s existing capabilities and enhance its efforts in delivering efficient and sustainable power solutions to the nation.

Under the visionary leadership of the Honourable Minister of Power, the newly formed team will play a crucial role in driving key initiatives, ensuring seamless project monitoring and execution, fostering collaboration with stakeholders, and effectively communicating the ministry’s objectives and activities to the public.

The appointed team members bring a wealth of expertise and diverse backgrounds, enabling them to contribute effectively to the ministry’s goals. Their collective knowledge and experience will be instrumental in achieving the vision of providing reliable and affordable power supply for all citizens.

The key responsibilities of the ministerial team include:

1. Technical Support & Project Coordination

The technical support team will play a crucial role in assisting the Minister of Power in carrying out his responsibilities effectively. They will provide support to Minister of Power in the areas of Policy and Regulation Research and Analysis, Briefing and Documentation, Project tracking, coordination and harmonisation, Technical Expertise, Crisis Management, International Cooperation, Monitoring and Evaluation.

Team Lead : ADEDAYO OLOWONIYI

A seasoned professional with proven success conceptualizing strategies and directing multicultural teams to streamline operations, improve fiscal health, and propel business growth across Africa. He established and steered entities in Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya and Angola.

He has over 10 years’ experience as CEO of multinational companies in Africa, and 15 years’ experience in the power sector in Africa. Adedayo was the first Nigerian CEO and Country Manager for ABB, and the Vice President Business Development and Managing Director for MAN Diesel & Turbo, a German manufacturer of turbines, engines and compressors for power generation and oil & gas applications.

He possesses in-depth knowledge and understanding of the power sector in Sub- Saharan Africa and its challenges. Adedayo has vast international experience within multiple countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Switzerland, South Africa, Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, and Angola.

He will be supported by other seasoned professionals and specialists across the Power Sector value chain as well as Institutional technical partners from UKNaif, AfDB, USAID, and the World Bank.

2. Stakeholder Coordination

As a stakeholders’ coordinating team to the Minister of Power, the primary responsibility of the team is to manage and facilitate effective communication and collaboration between the Minister and various technical and political stakeholders in the power sector. This includes Stakeholder Mapping, Relationship Building, Policy Advocacy, Public Relations, Political Analysis, Political Strategy, Conflict Resolution, Political Intelligence and Political Risk Assessment.

*Team Lead: ROTIMI AJANAKU

Rotimi, a Law graduate is a skilled stakeholder engagement specialist with a strong background in public relations and diplomacy. Responsible for managing relationships with key stakeholders in the power sector, fostering collaboration, and addressing stakeholder concerns to promote a conducive environment for power sector development.

Rotimi will be supported by other stakeholder liaison officers across the country.

3. Media Relations Team

As a media advisory team to the Minister of Power, the role of the team is to provide strategic guidance and support in managing media relations, public communications, and reputation management. This includes Media Strategy, Media Relations, Message Development, Media Monitoring, Crisis Communication, Media Training, Content Creation, Reputation Management, Media Campaigns, Media Analysis and Reporting.

Team Lead: Bolaji Tunji

Bolaji Tunji was Special Adviser, Communication and Strategy to Senator Abiola Ajimobi, Governor of Oyo State, Nigeria, until May 29, 2019. He retained the position after the public service, working with the Ex- Governor and was Senator Abiola Ajimobi’s Special Adviser when he was nominated the Deputy National Chairman (South) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the ruling political party in Nigeria.

Prior to his appointment, he was Executive Director (Special Duties) and a member of the Board of The Sun newspaper.

An astute journalist with wide network in the media industry, he set up and was pioneer Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of New Telegraph newspaper, a national publication. He was also Editor, National Mirror newspaper, having edited the Sunday Mirror title, from the same stable, for about three years.

A graduate of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile- Ife, Osun State, Tunji, a former classroom teacher, began his journalism career with Nigeria’s The Guardian newspaper in March 1993 where he spent eight years before resigning as a Correspondent to join Daily Independent as pioneer Deputy News Editor in September 2001.

The Ministry of Power is confident that the commissioning of this exceptional ministerial team will significantly bolster its capacity to address the challenges and opportunities in the power sector. By leveraging their combined expertise and collaborative approach, the team will contribute to the sustainable development of a robust and reliable power infrastructure that meets the growing energy needs of our nation.

He will be supported by other seasoned media specialists covering the conventional print and electronic media as well as the New media.

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US President, Joe Biden Appoint Nigerians Osagie Imasogie & Chinenye Ogwumike As Advisers.

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The United States President, Joe Biden, has appointed two professionals who are of Nigerian descent as special advisers.

Both Osagie Imasogie and Chineye Ogwumike were part of the 12 members of the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement in the United States.

The appointment was contained in a statement released by the State House on Wednesday.

The members include Silvester Scott Beaman who will chair the council, Mimi E. Alemayehou, Rosalind Brewer, Viola Davis, Helene D. Gayle, Patrick Hubert Gaspard, C.D. Glin, Osagie Imasogie, Almaz Negash, Chinenye Joy Ogwumike, Ham K. Serunjogi, and Kevin Young.

The members of the council will serve for the 2023-2025 term.

According to the statement, the establishment of the council was aimed at enhancing dialogue between United States officials and the African Diaspora.

“The Council’s members include individuals who have distinguished themselves in government, sports, creative industries, business, academia, social work, and faith-based activities.

“They will provide invaluable guidance to reinforce cultural, social, political, and economic ties between the U.S. and Africa, and promote trade, investment, and educational exchanges between the United States and Africa,” the statement read in part.

Below are the profiles of both Imasogie and Ogwumike

Osagie Imasogie

Osagie Imasogie is Chairman of the Investment Bank and SEC/FINRA registered Broker-Dealer, Quoin Capital and Quoin Advisors. In addition, Osagie is a co-founder of PIPV Capital, a private equity firm that is focused on the life sciences vertical and has invested over $1 billion into that industry. Prior to co-founding PIPV Capital, he established GlaxoSmithKline Ventures and was its founding Vice President. Osagie has held senior commercial and R&D positions within pharmaceutical companies such as GSK, SmithKline Beecham, and DuPont Merck.

He has also been a Price Waterhouse Corporate Finance Partner as well as a practicing attorney with leading U.S. law firm, Schnader, Harrison, Segal & Lewis. Osagie is a serial entrepreneur and investor who serves on the board of a number of financial institutions such as FS-KKR Capital Corp and Haverford Trust, institutions that cumulatively manage over $28 billion. He is an adviser to Brown Advisory, a firm that manages in excess of $140 billion. Osagie is the Vice-Chair of the Executive Committee of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and a member of the Executive Committee and Chair of the Nominating & Governance Committee of the Philadelphia Orchestra and Kimmel Center.

In addition, Osagie is a Trustee of the University of Pennsylvania, a member of the Executive Committee of the University, and is also the Chairman of the Board of the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, where he is an Adjunct Professor of Intellectual Property. Osagie holds LLM degrees from the London School of Economics and the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, and is a member of the New York State Bar in addition to being admitted to practice in other jurisdictions.

Chinenye Ogwumike

Chinenye “Chiney” Ogwumike is a 2-Time WNBA All-Star for the Los Angeles Sparks and a full-time, multi-platform ESPN host and NBA analyst. Chiney stars on ESPN daily on ESPN’s NBA Today and NBA Countdown, and also stars on the court as a forward for the Sparks. Chiney is a proud first generation Nigerian-American, born in Cypress, Texas. The 1st overall pick in the 2014 WNBA Draft, she graduated from Stanford University with an International Relations degree under the mentorship of Dr. Condoleezza Rice.

Chiney led Stanford to three Final Fours while distinguishing herself in academics, earning multiple honors for her academic success, including being named the 2014 Capital One Academic All-American of the Year and the Pac-12 Women’s Basketball Scholar-Athlete of the Year. Chiney Ogwumike was the 2014 WNBA Rookie of the Year and is a 2-Time WNBA All-Star (2014, 2018). She served as the vice president of the WNBA Players Association (WNBPA) from 2018 to 2022, instrumentally helping negotiate the groundbreaking 2020 collective bargaining agreement.

In August 2020, Chiney became the first Black woman to host a national, daily sports-talk radio show. The 2021 Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree also holds the title of Executive Producer, producing an ESPN Films documentary “144” on the 2020 WNBA season. In 2018, Chiney became a full-time multi-platform ESPN NBA Analyst, becoming one of the youngest national sports studio analysts and one of the only full-time professional athletes to currently hold a regular national sports media position. She has made numerous trips to Nigeria, Rwanda, Kenya, and South Africa with NBA Africa and other nonprofits to help launch youth empowerment and education initiatives, using basketball as a tool for development.

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