April 14, 2010
"Acting President" Goodluck Jonathan today left the United States at 7 :00PM today after expressing the determination of his government to boost the fight against corruption by reviewing the structure of the EFCC.
"Acting President" Goodluck Jonathan today left the United States at 7 :00PM today after expressing the determination of his government to boost the fight against corruption by reviewing the structure of the EFCC.
Jonathan was speaking at a breakfast meeting organized by the Centre for Global Development, a Washington-based independent research centre championing global poverty reduction and equal rights with former EFCC chair Nuhu Ribadu in attendance. He told them his administration’s focus is on building strong institutions that will last beyond the leadership and operators of such institutions.
“I can assure you that we are going to review the EFCC to strengthen the body to make it to perform,” he reportedly said in a press release signed by Mitaire Ikpen, “This will go a long way to deter fraudulent minds and ensure the security of indigenous and investments in the country.’’
The full text of the Press Release is as follows:
We will build strong institutions – Jonathan
Acting President Jonathan said the focus of his administration is to build strong institutions that will last beyond the leadership and operators of such institutions. To this end, he has assured that the Federal Government would review the structure of the EFCC to strengthen its performance in the fight against corruption.
Jonathan stated this at a breakfast meeting organized by the Centre for Global Development, an independent research centre championing global poverty reduction and equal rights.
Answering questions from seasoned American diplomats and businessmen who are interested in investing in Nigeria, Jonathan said the issue of corruption in African countries is a worrisome trend, and that Nigeria will take urgent measures to step up the anti-graft war.
“I can assure you that we are going to review the EFCC to strengthen the body to make it to perform. This will go a long way to deter fraudulent minds and ensure the security of indigenous and investments in the country.’’ he said.
Responding on Nigeria’s trade relations with China and the US, the Acting President assured that though there are more Chinese investors in the country, Nigeria has not abandoned its traditional allies which include America.
He attributed the development to the aggressiveness of the Chinese investors noting that even Americans are going to China to invest.
Jonathan also assured the gathering that Nigeria is committed to the rule of law and the protection of the rights and privileges of local and foreign investors.
He advised foreign investors to ensure they do business within the ambit of the laws to ensure security of their investments. He added that foreign investors should change their perception that Nigeria is a corrupt place where anything goes, as it is such perception that make them cut corners and get duped in the process.
The Acting President also reiterated that Government will stop at nothing to pursue ongoing banking reform to a logical conclusion.
He said the Executive arm of Government has sent the Asset Management Bill to the National Assembly that will statutorily put in place the regulation of the assets of banks and ensure that depositors’ monies are safe.
MITAIRE IKPEN
Another speech at the Atlantic Council
REMARKS BY THE ACTING PRESIDENT, COMMANDER IN CHIEF OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA DR. GOODLUCK EBELE JONATHAN GCON AT THE ATLANTIC COUNCIL WASHINGTON DC TODAY 14TH APRIL 2010.
PROTOCOL
Senator Hagel,
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
Thank you for the opportunity to interact with you at this time. I am here to share a few thoughts about our current efforts at entrenching accountability in our country and also benefit from your deep insights and experience in this very important matter.
I want to begin by extending my sincere thanks to the Atlantic Council for the warm welcome and very specially add my congratulations to your launch of the Michael S. Ansari Africa Center.
Many of you will know that just last week, Nigeria and the United States agreed to establish a Bi-National Commission. This marks a new and promising chapter in our relationship by recognizing the vital importance of our bilateral relationship and the need to maintain regular, high-level consultation and engagement. We shall work together on good governance, a peaceful and prosperous Niger Delta and stable West Africa, continued growing investment in the energy sector and strengthened food security. At the heart of this joint effort and in my work as Acting President is the need to realise the promise of accountability so as to arrive at our destination of a happier world within the shortest possible time.
Accountability to the poorest Nigerians who yearn to be freed from the shackles of poverty, to the West African region whose peoples yearn for good government and democracy, and to our partners and friends in the struggle for a stable and peaceful international order.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, there is no time to waste. Nigerians are very aware of this. We have the opportunity and indeed the obligation to direct Nigeria on a path that allows it to live up to its considerable promise. A strong, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria would be a voice for good in the world.
We live in a world that has more than its fair share of challenges. Over the years, Nigeria has taken a strong stance in supporting international and regional peacekeeping efforts. We are determined to live up to our responsibilities as a valued member of the International Community in combating all forms of violence that aim to terrorize and harm civilians and property. We will remain a country that has been a strong actor for peace. Precious Nigerian blood and treasure were lost when we moved to intervene to stop the ruinous civil wars in Sierra Leone, Liberia and other countries most recently Darfur. Nigeria has also stood firm in support of democratic elections not just in our region but the entire continent of Africa. This is in addition to our local challenges, which we must resolve for the good of our people.
Events and actions need to be put in perspective so that suggestions for solutions when advanced benefit the whole not a part. The unfortunate and unacceptable violence in Jos led to a widespread misinterpretation that Nigeria is in the grip of a religious war.
May God Almighty forbid the use of His name for unholy purposes!
Our present understanding of the Jos matter is that the feeling of economic exclusion, poverty and citizenship is central to the crisis. Like other parts of the world, the struggle for access to resources and position is taking different forms and in some instances they explode in violence. The tragedy in Jos is a reminder of urgent task in nation building which we have sworn to accomplish. These are national challenges knocking on doors of many African Nations! In Nigeria we are determined to address the issues in a frank, firm and forthright way that will reaffirm our belief in our common humanity. We are responding to this over five decades old conflicts through professional law enforcement and a deliberate increase in the pace and distribution of economic development.
In ordering a comprehensive law enforcement response to the latest incidents, I was recognizing the government’s accountability to the safety of every life regardless of nationality, ethnic identity or religious affiliation. The protection of life, liberty and property is the responsibility of all responsible governments the world over. Ours cannot be different. Yet in so doing all the soldiers and policemen in the world cannot build a culture of peace. That must come from sustained efforts to address the needs of people, to recognize their dignity and humanity and ensure that we are all covered by the indestructible canopy of the Rule of Law.
The challenges are many and we need your support especially in our determination to expand our economy so as to meet our obligation of delivering our promise of good governance. This is particularly important in places like the Niger Delta were poverty and the loss of livelihood through environmental degradation has created a social and political environment that allows the flourishing of a festering culture of discontent.
The United States suffered a terrible tragedy just under a decade ago. We stood with you then and we stand with you today in ensuring that those responsible for that terrible attack do not find any shelter or succor in Nigeria. We have taken strong steps to ensure that our airport security is improved to a world class standard. We will continue to work hard to be a strong partner in the fight against international terrorism.
As friends we need to be honest with one another. We were dismayed a few months ago when our country was put on a watch list due to the actions of a young man flying to Detroit. I am happy that the Obama administration has changed the airport security criteria and that national origin will no longer be used to determine who is screened. It also bodes well for our partnership that we received such a sympathetic hearing when we raised this issue at the highest of levels.
As the United States is discovering in Afghanistan and Iraq, a sustained peace is built in the final analysis on sustainable economic development. This is one of the issues that we are accountable for. A growing Nigerian economy whose fruits are enjoyed by all citizens will be the key to our long-term success. In appointing a new cabinet, I sought to find Ministers who understand how crucial it will be for Nigeria to rebuild its infrastructure, widen its sources of financing and investment for all Nigerians and lead public bodies that are accountable and transparent. These are not minor goals but they have been too long in coming to fruition. This is a time for committed change in building a solid base that will ensure that all Nigerians are well educated, have access to electricity, are productively employed and can trust that government offices are sanctuaries for the delivery of services for the benefit of the people. But all these dreams can go up in flames if we do not focus attention on leadership recruitment and strengthen the institutions that can sustain our young democracy.
In this regard, we will need to improve our system of elections. Without a pool of accountable public officials in position of authority, many of the ambitions we have for our country will come to naught. And there is no way to win this credibility without ensuring that elections are free and fair. Already, during this trip, I have promised to reform the Independent National Electoral Commission and this afternoon I again reiterate that promise. Electoral justice and accountability cannot be put by the way side or delayed for some convenient time in the future.
Nigeria is rising and our rise must be for the good of all our citizens. Our economy is growing at a time when many countries in the world are unfortunately in the grip of recession. Our young people are competing in the sciences and arts at a world-class level. Our film makers make films that are some of the most watched. We have a wind at our back. Our challenges which are considerable offer us the opportunity to solve them and by so doing, be a generation that Nigerians will remember for many years to come. A strong and prosperous Nigeria will be a strong partner to the United States. The time to bring this about is now, not tomorrow.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, please join me in thanking the Atlantic Council for the opportunity for this interaction. And very specially I thank you for your attention.
May God bless us all.
For: SSA Media and Publicity to the Acting President
Jonathan was speaking at a breakfast meeting organized by the Centre for Global Development, a Washington-based independent research centre championing global poverty reduction and equal rights with former EFCC chair Nuhu Ribadu in attendance. He told them his administration’s focus is on building strong institutions that will last beyond the leadership and operators of such institutions.
“I can assure you that we are going to review the EFCC to strengthen the body to make it to perform,” he reportedly said in a press release signed by Mitaire Ikpen, “This will go a long way to deter fraudulent minds and ensure the security of indigenous and investments in the country.’’
The full text of the Press Release is as follows:
We will build strong institutions – Jonathan
Acting President Jonathan said the focus of his administration is to build strong institutions that will last beyond the leadership and operators of such institutions. To this end, he has assured that the Federal Government would review the structure of the EFCC to strengthen its performance in the fight against corruption.
Jonathan stated this at a breakfast meeting organized by the Centre for Global Development, an independent research centre championing global poverty reduction and equal rights.
Answering questions from seasoned American diplomats and businessmen who are interested in investing in Nigeria, Jonathan said the issue of corruption in African countries is a worrisome trend, and that Nigeria will take urgent measures to step up the anti-graft war.
“I can assure you that we are going to review the EFCC to strengthen the body to make it to perform. This will go a long way to deter fraudulent minds and ensure the security of indigenous and investments in the country.’’ he said.
Responding on Nigeria’s trade relations with China and the US, the Acting President assured that though there are more Chinese investors in the country, Nigeria has not abandoned its traditional allies which include America.
He attributed the development to the aggressiveness of the Chinese investors noting that even Americans are going to China to invest.
Jonathan also assured the gathering that Nigeria is committed to the rule of law and the protection of the rights and privileges of local and foreign investors.
He advised foreign investors to ensure they do business within the ambit of the laws to ensure security of their investments. He added that foreign investors should change their perception that Nigeria is a corrupt place where anything goes, as it is such perception that make them cut corners and get duped in the process.
The Acting President also reiterated that Government will stop at nothing to pursue ongoing banking reform to a logical conclusion.
He said the Executive arm of Government has sent the Asset Management Bill to the National Assembly that will statutorily put in place the regulation of the assets of banks and ensure that depositors’ monies are safe.
MITAIRE IKPEN
Another speech at the Atlantic Council
REMARKS BY THE ACTING PRESIDENT, COMMANDER IN CHIEF OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA DR. GOODLUCK EBELE JONATHAN GCON AT THE ATLANTIC COUNCIL WASHINGTON DC TODAY 14TH APRIL 2010.
PROTOCOL
Senator Hagel,
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
Thank you for the opportunity to interact with you at this time. I am here to share a few thoughts about our current efforts at entrenching accountability in our country and also benefit from your deep insights and experience in this very important matter.
I want to begin by extending my sincere thanks to the Atlantic Council for the warm welcome and very specially add my congratulations to your launch of the Michael S. Ansari Africa Center.
Many of you will know that just last week, Nigeria and the United States agreed to establish a Bi-National Commission. This marks a new and promising chapter in our relationship by recognizing the vital importance of our bilateral relationship and the need to maintain regular, high-level consultation and engagement. We shall work together on good governance, a peaceful and prosperous Niger Delta and stable West Africa, continued growing investment in the energy sector and strengthened food security. At the heart of this joint effort and in my work as Acting President is the need to realise the promise of accountability so as to arrive at our destination of a happier world within the shortest possible time.
Accountability to the poorest Nigerians who yearn to be freed from the shackles of poverty, to the West African region whose peoples yearn for good government and democracy, and to our partners and friends in the struggle for a stable and peaceful international order.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, there is no time to waste. Nigerians are very aware of this. We have the opportunity and indeed the obligation to direct Nigeria on a path that allows it to live up to its considerable promise. A strong, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria would be a voice for good in the world.
We live in a world that has more than its fair share of challenges. Over the years, Nigeria has taken a strong stance in supporting international and regional peacekeeping efforts. We are determined to live up to our responsibilities as a valued member of the International Community in combating all forms of violence that aim to terrorize and harm civilians and property. We will remain a country that has been a strong actor for peace. Precious Nigerian blood and treasure were lost when we moved to intervene to stop the ruinous civil wars in Sierra Leone, Liberia and other countries most recently Darfur. Nigeria has also stood firm in support of democratic elections not just in our region but the entire continent of Africa. This is in addition to our local challenges, which we must resolve for the good of our people.
Events and actions need to be put in perspective so that suggestions for solutions when advanced benefit the whole not a part. The unfortunate and unacceptable violence in Jos led to a widespread misinterpretation that Nigeria is in the grip of a religious war.
May God Almighty forbid the use of His name for unholy purposes!
Our present understanding of the Jos matter is that the feeling of economic exclusion, poverty and citizenship is central to the crisis. Like other parts of the world, the struggle for access to resources and position is taking different forms and in some instances they explode in violence. The tragedy in Jos is a reminder of urgent task in nation building which we have sworn to accomplish. These are national challenges knocking on doors of many African Nations! In Nigeria we are determined to address the issues in a frank, firm and forthright way that will reaffirm our belief in our common humanity. We are responding to this over five decades old conflicts through professional law enforcement and a deliberate increase in the pace and distribution of economic development.
In ordering a comprehensive law enforcement response to the latest incidents, I was recognizing the government’s accountability to the safety of every life regardless of nationality, ethnic identity or religious affiliation. The protection of life, liberty and property is the responsibility of all responsible governments the world over. Ours cannot be different. Yet in so doing all the soldiers and policemen in the world cannot build a culture of peace. That must come from sustained efforts to address the needs of people, to recognize their dignity and humanity and ensure that we are all covered by the indestructible canopy of the Rule of Law.
The challenges are many and we need your support especially in our determination to expand our economy so as to meet our obligation of delivering our promise of good governance. This is particularly important in places like the Niger Delta were poverty and the loss of livelihood through environmental degradation has created a social and political environment that allows the flourishing of a festering culture of discontent.
The United States suffered a terrible tragedy just under a decade ago. We stood with you then and we stand with you today in ensuring that those responsible for that terrible attack do not find any shelter or succor in Nigeria. We have taken strong steps to ensure that our airport security is improved to a world class standard. We will continue to work hard to be a strong partner in the fight against international terrorism.
As friends we need to be honest with one another. We were dismayed a few months ago when our country was put on a watch list due to the actions of a young man flying to Detroit. I am happy that the Obama administration has changed the airport security criteria and that national origin will no longer be used to determine who is screened. It also bodes well for our partnership that we received such a sympathetic hearing when we raised this issue at the highest of levels.
As the United States is discovering in Afghanistan and Iraq, a sustained peace is built in the final analysis on sustainable economic development. This is one of the issues that we are accountable for. A growing Nigerian economy whose fruits are enjoyed by all citizens will be the key to our long-term success. In appointing a new cabinet, I sought to find Ministers who understand how crucial it will be for Nigeria to rebuild its infrastructure, widen its sources of financing and investment for all Nigerians and lead public bodies that are accountable and transparent. These are not minor goals but they have been too long in coming to fruition. This is a time for committed change in building a solid base that will ensure that all Nigerians are well educated, have access to electricity, are productively employed and can trust that government offices are sanctuaries for the delivery of services for the benefit of the people. But all these dreams can go up in flames if we do not focus attention on leadership recruitment and strengthen the institutions that can sustain our young democracy.
In this regard, we will need to improve our system of elections. Without a pool of accountable public officials in position of authority, many of the ambitions we have for our country will come to naught. And there is no way to win this credibility without ensuring that elections are free and fair. Already, during this trip, I have promised to reform the Independent National Electoral Commission and this afternoon I again reiterate that promise. Electoral justice and accountability cannot be put by the way side or delayed for some convenient time in the future.
Nigeria is rising and our rise must be for the good of all our citizens. Our economy is growing at a time when many countries in the world are unfortunately in the grip of recession. Our young people are competing in the sciences and arts at a world-class level. Our film makers make films that are some of the most watched. We have a wind at our back. Our challenges which are considerable offer us the opportunity to solve them and by so doing, be a generation that Nigerians will remember for many years to come. A strong and prosperous Nigeria will be a strong partner to the United States. The time to bring this about is now, not tomorrow.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, please join me in thanking the Atlantic Council for the opportunity for this interaction. And very specially I thank you for your attention.
May God bless us all.
For: SSA Media and Publicity to the Acting President
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