Features
Eze’s Book On Amaechi: Dakuku Dissects, Provides Insider Perspectives
… as Author Commends Hon. Brown, Prof Ugboma, Prof Agu, Others for Unusual Editorial Work
Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze who feels elated for the privilege to do a detailed and expository book on his friend, associate and Political Leader, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, erstwhile Governor of Rivers State and extraordinary Minister of Transportation, says the work captures in rich details, the past and present legacies, development model and political beau ideal of Amaechi.
Dr Dakuku Peterside, a close ally and confidant of Chief Eze, wrote the book’s classical exordium.
Chief Eze’s irresistibly appealing and succinct proem of Dr. Dakuku Peterside exposes more facts about the Niger Delta rare breed and composite gentleman;
“My friend and brother, Dr. Dakuku Adolphus Peterside, is a composite of the class of well-bred and consummate politician from the Niger Delta region who has earned himself a pride of place and found his niche in public administration as the most outstanding Commissioner of Works on the books of Rivers State. An erstwhile member of the Federal House of Representatives and mannerly gentleman, Dr. Peterside, was the Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Rivers State, in the 2015 general elections. He served meritoriously as Director-General (DG) of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and emerged first Nigerian to head the Association of African Maritime Administrators (AAMA); a strategic regional body set up to harness the potentials of the African Maritime Industry, with a view to strengthening cooperation at the regional, continental and international levels in harmonizing policies and goals necessary for the growth of the African Maritime Sector. He is the author of the bestseller; ‘Strategic Turnaround’, a book which centers on the transformational change in an African maritime administration.
Dakuku once exclaimed; “Always VINTAGE EZE, like no other. I challenge anybody in the land today. No Journalist has as much information on anybody like Chief EZE C EZE. Chief EZE is without doubt a repository of knowledge”.
Dakuku’s affirmative exclamation as captured above, simply lends credence to the widely held view that Eze is repertoire of contemporary standard in literary mechanics.
Thus, one needs no further exposition to quickly align with the opinion of the reading public and leading proponents of truth, who have described the former nPDP Spokesman, as the numero uno in contemporary journalism.
Describing the project as pure inspiration, Eze said he was spurred by the exigency of the need and public yearn to educate the world on certain crucial issues about Amaechi that may be missing in the public domain.
“Those facts and many more espouse the common inclination and popular demand made upon me, to assist Nigerians with the responsibility of unearthing some hidden facts about the life and politics of Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, an enigma whose model of leadership and public service is an archetype of its own and qualifies for a study”.
Emphasising the need to preserve the legacies of the most outstanding Minister in the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, whose tenure as Governor is known to be the golden age of governance in Rivers State, a respected youth leader, Mr. Chris Joseph, demanded thus, “Chief Eze, after reading series of highly educative and expository articles on Amaechi, I wish to suggest that all these write-ups be compiled in a book for future reference and for students of Government”.
The litany of cheering reactions and glee of accolades that accompany Eze’s daily media engagements are testamentary to the efficacy of his works in criticizing societal ills and tackling undesirable events, with the view to restoring sanity in the society.
Below is the classical prefatory remark of Dr. Dakuku Peterside, on the Book;
“Recording events and important milestones for posterity started before formal writing in Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq), where the use of cuneiform was prominent between 3400 and 3300 BC, and shortly afterwards in Egypt at around 3200 BC. The realisations that human memory is short and passage of information from one generation to another is unreliable were the primary reasons for this art form.
Record keeping later evolved to literature. And the earliest literary authors recorded events for people to understand why some actions and inactions took place, the evolution of events, and the socio-cultural and political functions of political gladiators and groups. This development led to our ability to reminisce constructively and deconstruct vital lessons from historical events whilst preserving important information.
Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, by this seminal work, has followed this tradition. He has fused the past with the present to create a compelling written documentary about one great political figure of contemporary Nigeria.
For the first time, somebody has looked at classified and unclassified documents, speeches, biographies, newspaper commentaries, and as a participant-observer to document the remarkable life and leadership of Rt Hon Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi.
More importantly, these events have been put in perspective by someone who was and still is an active participant in the events that defined the politics of Nigeria in the first two decades of the 21st century. This book is a rare collection of essential facts, hitherto not available to most persons who are interested in knowing the truth about the political developments around Rt Hon C. R. Amaechi.
Vintage Eze, through this book, provides a wealth of knowledge and insights about how the master political leader in CR Amaechi was able to navigate political landmines and rose to the pinnacle of leadership. Chief Eze’s account provides stories that have not been told before in this way and at the same time brings clues that make the total picture clear.
This book essentially is a new perspective and a compelling first-hand authentic story that only a master storyteller can share.
Chief Eze, through this work, has taken us through the most significant highlights of the Rotimi Amaechi personae in public life. This account is outside the imagination of those who thought they have information on the Amaechi years.
Chief Eze brings a fresh dimension that clarifies and takes the reader to the inner recesses of how Rt Hon Amaechi accomplished excellent results despite artificial roadblocks and other challenges.
By reading this book, I am sure you will understand how others view Rt Hon Amaechi and what makes him loved, respected, dreaded and appreciated. Most importantly it will be for you as it was for me the beginning of a deeper exploration of the quintessential C R Amaechi.
Few persons are more qualified to document Rt Hon Amaechi’s impactful and definitive leadership than Chief Eze. He is a prolific commentator on national and international issues, an accomplished journalist, an excellent reporter of events, stepped in background facts not available to any other storyteller, opinion moulder and people’s advocate.
Chief Eze started reporting on the Amaechi journey of transformational leadership before becoming a political colossus and a national leader of stature. In his days as Governor of Rivers State, as Director-General of President Buhari’s Campaign Organization and as Minister of Transportation, Chief Eze was there through his numerous battles. He has access to all the political gladiators that no other person within the political ranks has.
Most importantly, He acts out of conviction and deep understanding of the complex web of events that shaped critical historical events in the life of CR Amaechi.
Finally, I thank chief Eze for giving me the privilege to read his book before others and an even more incredible honour to write the foreword.” Dakuku Peterside PhD, Author of Strategic Turnaround, Story of a government agency; turnaround expert, leadership Coach and columnist.
Eze who expressed his unalloyed appreciation to Amaechi for all his support and encouragement in ensuring that I didn’t give up in embarking on such a gigantic project.
Conforming to the words of Jacques Maritain when he stated that “gratitude is the most exquisite form of courtesy,” Eze expressed deep appreciation to the Editorial Team, comprising of Prof. Innocent Agu, Mr. Bekee Anyalechi, a seasoned and respected Journalist; Barr. Ogechukwu Okparanta, a very young, vibrant and brilliant Lawyer; and of course, my good friend and brother Prof. Nwankwo, for their massive supports and contributions in raising the bar of the book.
Eze also applauded Hon. Onari Brown, the Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), whom he described as a true brother, for his support and for providing an extraordinary laptop to facilitate works on the book as well as Prof. Henry Ugboma, the CMD of UPTH, whose inputs and contributions he said, must not go unnoticed.
As the work nears completion, Eze is optimistic that the book will surely see the light of day not minding the obvious obstacles, God willing.
Community
Abiodun declares state of emergency on flooded Isheri community
…assures residents of permanent solution after comprehensive assessment
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Monday declared state of emergency on the flooded Isheri community, in Ifo Local Government Area of the State, as he assured residents of the area quick intervention to save the situation.
The governor added that a comprehensive assessment that would lead to permanent solution to the menace of flooding in the affected area would be conducted very soon.
Prince Abiodun, who stated this while fielding questions from newsmen after inspecting the flooded community, said that his administration is working with the federal government to deal with the situation as an emergency case.
He noted that the time has come to find a lasting solution to the perennial flooding to make the area morw conducive for living.
According to him, the state government will see to the elevation of some roads in the area as parts of the solutions to the problem.
The govenor said: “We will prioritize the works here because I am touched with what I have seen. I will ensure that we immediately begin to see signs of relief as we are stepping this up. The Minister of State for Environment is already aware. The Vice President is already aware and also the president. It will be dealt with as an emergency and we are taking it as such.
“As an emergency, I will like to take it up myself. Please continue to bear with us as we are going to conduct a comprehensive assessment of what we need to do to make this place conducive for living.
“Whatever that assessment comes up with is what we are going to implement. So, we are going to first start with ensuring that we have the required road infrastructure at the appropriate levels.
“So if you now built in such a way that we need to relocate you, we have to do that. Whatever it is that we must do to ensure that place does not persistently experience flood, we will do it. But let us wait for the result of the studies to come back and then we will begin to take that decision as and when the situation arises.”
Addressing residents of Riverview Estate, Governor Abiodun said he has requested for an area survey of the entire estate to identify critical areas that needed immediately intervention.
He assured that the intervention would come through the construction of an elevated road with adequate drainages to mitigate their suffering.
“I want to assure you today, knowing fully well that we are a promise keeping administration, we do not say what we do not mean, my heart goes out to you, it is very unfortunate, I am giving my commitment today, the commissioner for works will come and see what needs to be done.
“We have also engage the Minister of State for the Environment, who fortunately, is from Ogun State and I have already brought this to his attention.
“Before the end of the week, I will also table it before the Vice President and the President as well so that we ensure that this problem gets all the desired attention and consequently gets the desired solution so we can bring this to an end,” he said.
The governor also disclosed that he and the Minister of Water Resources would visit the community in few days time.
“We will also discuss the issue of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Authority and try and interrogate the activities there and understand how their activities affect this community and other communities with respect to the opening and closing of the dam,” he said.
The governor described the environment around the Kara cattle market as an eyesore and not befitting the dreams of a “new Ogun State”.
He said that the market was not conducive for human living and not in tandem with the Sustainable Development Goals and waste disposal.
He, however, acknowledged the area as one of the biggest commercial operation that provide services to a large number of people, even as he assured that government would go into a satisfactory agreement with the market men and women after which a comprehensive beautification of the area would take place.
The Chairman, Riverview Estate, Abayomi Akande, in his remarks, intimated the governor of the suffering residents of the area are going through as a result of the flooding.
He said that there is a need for a panel of inquiry into the operations of Oyan Dam to stop incessant release of water to cause havoc in the State
He applauded the governor for sending miscreants packing from the road, saying residents of the axis have suffered robbery attacks and other criminalities for quite awhile.
Akande urged the state government to think of converting the area into a Government Residential Area (GRA) through Public Private Partnership arrangement to fast track its development.
Features
MediaTek, Airtel Nigeria intensify collaborative efforts to bolster mobile connectivity in Nigeria
Lagos, Nigeria – October 12, 2023 – MediaTek, a global leader in semiconductor industry together with Airtel Nigeria, a leading telecommunications service provider, briefed the local media on Thursday on their collaborative efforts, to drive technological advancements and improve mobile connectivity across the nation.
The collaboration introduces MediaTek’s T750-powered Customer Premises Equipment (CPE), a groundbreaking technology that enhances internet connectivity. This advancement allows users to access high-speed 5G networks from the comfort of their homes, opening doors to remote work, gaming, online education, and entertainment streaming like never before.
Speaking during the session, Rami Osman, Director for Corporate Sales and Marketing at MediaTek, Middle East Africa, highlighted MediaTek’s commitment towards expanding its footprint across the Smartphone and Smart Device ecosystem in the Middle East & Africa (MEA) region.
“MediaTek is at the forefront of the global semiconductor industry, and we are proud to lead the way in key sectors like Smartphones, 5G Fixed Wireless Access, Wi-Fi, TV, and AI-IoT. In Nigeria, our collaboration with Airtel Nigeria, revolves around three core areas of focus. In connectivity, we are enhancing high-speed internet access with our advanced chipsets.”
“In the Smartphone domain, we are committed to offering a wider range of premium and flagship devices while supporting the transition from feature phones to smartphones. In the realm of AI-IoT, we are exploring new possibilities and technologies. Thus, this will promote digital inclusion, revolutionize connectivity in Nigeria, and contribute to sustainable development goals,” said Osman.
In addition, he said, “This collaboration aligns seamlessly with our MEA agenda, laying a robust foundation for the future of 5G technology. As we move forward, we are excited to lead in technological progress within this continually evolving region.”
Ismail Olusegun Adeshina, Director, Marketing at Airtel Nigeria, emphasized the importance of the partnership with MediaTek and how it will provide affordable connectivity to Nigerians. He stated, “Our commitment to innovation is evident through our early adoption of 5G technology. We’re proactively investing in this technology to improve connectivity, to tackle coverage and cost challenges, and make 5G devices more accessible across Nigeria”.
MediaTek powers globally recognized brands and remains dedicated to providing state-of-the-art innovations through its latest products and solutions. These offerings span a diverse range, including smartphones, smart devices, automotive technology, satellite connectivity solutions, and next-generation wearables.
MediaTek’s product portfolio includes MediaTek Dimensity for 5G smartphones, MediaTek HelioG series for 4G gaming smartphones, MediaTek Kompanio for arm-based Chromebooks, MediaTek Pentonic for Smart TV technologies, MediaTek Genio for Internet of Things applications, MediaTek Filogic for advanced Wi-Fi 6/6E & Wi-Fi 7 solutions, and MediaTek Dimensity Auto for cutting-edge automotive technologies, among others.
For more information, please visit: https://www.mediatek.com/
The award-winning Bigi Carbonated Soft Drink brand, a product of Rite Foods Limited, is delighted to unveil her highly-anticipated fourth edition of its “Bigi Watch and Win” promo. Designed exclusively for movie enthusiasts in Lagos and Abuja, this exciting promo offers participants the opportunity to watch their favourite movies and win fantastic prizes.
From September 18, 2023, to November 18, 2023, movie goers can enjoy any film of their choice at Silverbird Cinemas and receive a raffle ticket. These tickets can be redeemed for a chance to win incredible prizes, including laptops, Bigi products, printers, perfumes, and more. The grand prize for this edition is a brand-new car.
The first edition of “Bigi Watch and Win” took place in 2021, and later that same year in December, the Bigi brand held another edition. Since then, it has become an annual tradition, demonstrating Rite Foods Limited’s commitment to rewarding brand loyalty among its valued consumers.
Ms. Biola Aransiola, Assistant Brand Manager for Bigi, expressed her excitement about the fourth edition of the promo, saying, “We’ve partnered with Silverbird Cinemas to enhance people’s movie-going experience. Movie lovers can enjoy any of our 13 Bigi Carbonated Soft Drink flavours while watching their favourite films and stand a chance to win amazing prizes.”
Ms. Aransiola also mentioned that her favourite part is witnessing participants’ reactions when they discover the incredible prizes they have won, particularly the grand prize—a brand-new car. She encourages potential participants to check @getbigi on all social media platforms for the terms and conditions.
Through the “Watch & Win” promo, the Bigi brand accentuates Rite Foods Limited’s dedication to supporting the entertainment industry. The brand continues to sponsor movie premieres, as it has in the past with movies such as “The Prophetess,” “Progressive Tailors Club,” and “Aki and Pawpaw.” Additionally, it has been a consistent sponsor of the popular talent discovery platform, Nigerian Idol, for three consecutive seasons (6, 7, & 8), helping aspiring Nigerian singers achieve their dreams of stardom in the music industry.
The “Watch & Win” promo, combined with other effective marketing initiatives, has earned the Bigi brand numerous awards within its market segment. In 2023, Bigi Cola was honored with the “Best Value for Money” award at the BrandXchange Consumers Value Awards. In 2022, it received the “Fastest Growing Cola Brand of the Year” award at the Marketing Edge Brands and Advertising Excellence Awards in Lagos. The Bigi brand also claimed the “Most Outstanding CSD Brand of the Year” award at the 2021 Brandcom Awards, solidifying its position as a market leader in the beverage industry, outperforming its competitors.
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