President Goodluck Jonathan makes way to Brazil for UN Earth Summit

President Goodluck Jonathan will depart Abuja on Tuesday for the UN Earth Summit, RIO+20, opening in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, on Wednesday.

A statement by Dr Reuben Abati, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, in Abuja on Monday, stated that the President would participate in the summit's four plenary meetings at Rio Centro Plenary Hall on Wednesday and Thursday.

Brazilian Indian Chief Raoni smokes during the People's Summit at Flamego Park in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on 18 June, 2012, in the framework of the UN Rio+20 gathering. The UN conference, which marks the 20th anniversary of the Earth Summit -- a landmark 1992 gathering that opened the debate on the future of the planet and its resources -- is the largest ever organized, with 50,000 delegates. AFP PHOTO

The statement noted that the President would also attend a reception to be hosted by the Brazilian President for Heads of State and Government.

It added that Jonathan would use the opportunity of the summit to open the Nigerian/Brazil RIO+20 Business Forum, and also hold talks with selected Brazilian businessmen and captains of industry.

Abati said the President would meet with representatives of the Nigerian community in Brazil and return to Nigeria on Friday.

The President would be accompanied by the First Lady, Dame Patience, Gov. Ibrahim Shema of Katsina and Gov. Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa.

Also on the President's entourage are Sen. Benedict Ayade and Hon. Eziuche Ubani of the National Assembly.

The Ministers of Environment, Hajiya Hadiza Mailafiya, that of Water Resources, Mrs Sarah Ochekpe, Trade and Investment, Dr Olusegun Aganga and Niger Delta (State) are also on the entourage.

Vanguard

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