NSCDC Arrests Five Suspected Vandals In Ogun State

<p dir="ltr">Five suspected vandals have been arrested by officers of the Ogun State Command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).<br> The arrest was made during an overnight patrol around Ibafo/Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of the state.</p> <p dir="ltr">They were all arrested on Wednesday at pipeline area around Ibafo area of the state.</p> <p dir="ltr">The suspects are: Banwo Olaide, Kabiru Rahimi, Tunde Rahimi, Disu Toheeb and Jamiu Koleosho.</p> <p dir="ltr">Commenting on the arrest, the Ogun State Commandant of the NSCDC, Mr Aboluwoye Akinkinwade, said that it would not be business as usual.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Akinkinwade noted that effective strategies had been put in place by the Command to check the menace of vandalism in the state.</p> <p dir="ltr">Exhibits recovered from the suspects include: two Ford buses with registration number, Lagos – GGE 943XL and another with registration number Lagos – APP 123XH, 87 50 litres kegs containing Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), five handsets and a sum of 50,000 Naira cash.</p> <p dir="ltr">Source : Channelstv </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMjN7luYGX2bR9fpP4vK3vPAO7fkUQOjhz2y85ZyjABbszXHMmh8NoqF0WemYP9hq3Ds99tBGR1HX79Z-03FMevZ_OCI5IX1yQxu1GSKBu1H0hyE2cYRXRvgFGbj7UXHlwor4WAGLO_OoV/s1600/kidnap_suspects-300x193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMjN7luYGX2bR9fpP4vK3vPAO7fkUQOjhz2y85ZyjABbszXHMmh8NoqF0WemYP9hq3Ds99tBGR1HX79Z-03FMevZ_OCI5IX1yQxu1GSKBu1H0hyE2cYRXRvgFGbj7UXHlwor4WAGLO_OoV/s640/kidnap_suspects-300x193.jpg"> </a> </div>

NSCDC Arrests Five Suspected Vandals In Ogun State

Five suspected vandals have been arrested by officers of the Ogun State Command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). ...

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Lawmakers Question Basis For MTN Fine Review

<p dir="ltr">Nigeria’s House of Representatives is questioning the legal basis for the review of the 1.04 trillion Naira fine imposed on a South African telecommunication company, MTN, for failing to deactivate unregistered SIM cards.<br> After considering a motion on the matter on Wednesday, the House resolved to investigate the extent to which the company violated the provisions of the law and if the company should escape criminal liability for the alleged death of over 10,000 Nigerians.</p> <p dir="ltr">The lawmakers also frowned at the tone of a letter written to the House Committee on Communication, declining an invitation to appear before the Committee and referring it to other government agencies.</p> <p dir="ltr">They queried the role of the Attorney General of the Federation for taking over the negotiations with MTN without including the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).</p> <p dir="ltr">The motion, however, called for an investigation into the matter. The Speaker, Honourable Yakubu Dogara, then put the prayers to a vote.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 1.04 trillion Naira fine was imposed on MTN for violating some aspects of the Nigerian Communications Commission’s regulation.</p> <p dir="ltr">The fine has been reduced to 780 billion Naira.<br></p> <p dir="ltr">Source : Channelstv </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHp6HBWkdO-UD_0kJhCubs4wmq72ETbudh3pzuOteQ2kDfa_mV9t7elUEtw7Yh8BOagOnD6uSCCdIrW6yzXVfPhp9VPP-CiLlPo9prJHiktbhQFpebDUSowrUjj7Dlw46-IMRaNAtcJqrE/s1600/House-of-Representatives-300x162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHp6HBWkdO-UD_0kJhCubs4wmq72ETbudh3pzuOteQ2kDfa_mV9t7elUEtw7Yh8BOagOnD6uSCCdIrW6yzXVfPhp9VPP-CiLlPo9prJHiktbhQFpebDUSowrUjj7Dlw46-IMRaNAtcJqrE/s640/House-of-Representatives-300x162.jpg"> </a> </div>

Lawmakers Question Basis For MTN Fine Review

Nigeria’s House of Representatives is questioning the legal basis for the review of the 1.04 trillion Naira fine imposed on a South African ...

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Sad, sad news for BB users. No more Whatsapp, Facebook for Blackberry users

<p dir="ltr">Social media and instant messaging applications Facebook and Whatsapp will no longer be available to users of Blackberry, Nokia and Windows phones by the end of 2016.</p> <p dir="ltr">Whatsapp, an instant messaging application owned by Facebook, was the first to make the announcement after it celebrated the seventh year of it’s existence in February.</p> <p dir="ltr">“When we started WhatsApp in 2009, people’s use of mobile devices looked very different from today. The Apple App Store was only a few months old. About 70 percent of smartphones sold at the time had operating systems offered by BlackBerry and Nokia,” the Whatsapp blog reported.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Mobile operating systems offered by Google, Apple and Microsoft – which account for 99.5 percent of sales today – were on less than 25 percent of mobile devices sold at the time.</p> <p dir="ltr">“As we look ahead to our next seven years, we want to focus our efforts on the mobile platforms the vast majority of people use. So, by the end of 2016, we will be ending support for WhatsApp Messenger on the following mobile platforms: Blackberry (including Blackberry 10), Nokia S40, Nokia Symbian S60, Android 2.1 and Android 2.2,Windows Phone 7.1.</p> <p dir="ltr">“While these mobile devices have been an important part of our story, they don’t offer the kind of capabilities we need to expand our app’s features in the future. This was a tough decision for us to make, but the right one in order to give people better ways to keep in touch with friends, family, and loved ones using WhatsApp.</p> <p dir="ltr">“If you use one of these affected mobile devices, we recommend upgrading to a newer Android, iPhone, or Windows Phone before the end of 2016 to continue using WhatsApp.”</p> <p dir="ltr">In a statement released by the company, Blackberry said  it is ‘extremely disappointed in Facebook’s decision as they know so many users love these apps”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We fought back to work with WhatsApp and Facebook to change their minds, but at this time, their decision stands.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Despite this, we have worked hard to ensure our end users have the best experience in light of this decision, and are continuing to search for alternate solutions.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The company encouraged users to let Facebook know how they feel on the social media.</p> <p dir="ltr">However, Blackberry has provided alternatives for users to move to the web-based version of Facebook.</p> <p dir="ltr">“As of March 31st, 2016 BlackBerry smartphone users will have to perform an update for the BlackBerry Facebook application in order to continue using Facebook.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Those wishing to continue using Facebook are encouraged to move to the web-based experience which will provide the most feature rich alternative.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Source : thecable.ng </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY5iVijKcSVWehDDaOcDnSfzaf71uw0iV5sFMR3p9UyAga5GIHMIYD55HzRFDmDI4nagzxw0y7kpWdc1d0a2UYC9uwQ7KOE88UBkcScYIsSBWsuv3PX0MsmaEKXW8psZoIfQx7WLuZQHeX/s1600/blackberry-logo_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY5iVijKcSVWehDDaOcDnSfzaf71uw0iV5sFMR3p9UyAga5GIHMIYD55HzRFDmDI4nagzxw0y7kpWdc1d0a2UYC9uwQ7KOE88UBkcScYIsSBWsuv3PX0MsmaEKXW8psZoIfQx7WLuZQHeX/s640/blackberry-logo_1.jpg"> </a> </div>

Sad, sad news for BB users. No more Whatsapp, Facebook for Blackberry users

Social media and instant messaging applications Facebook and Whatsapp will no longer be available to users of Blackberry, Nokia and Windows ...

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Reps Honour Exceptional UNILAG Graduate

<p dir="ltr">The House of Representatives on Wednesday honoured 29 year-old Ayodele Dada, who graduated with a cumulative grade point average of 5.0 from the University of Lagos.<br> He received a standing ovation from the House during plenary in honour of his rare academic feat.</p> <p dir="ltr">In an unprecedented gesture, the House suspended its rules to invite Mr Dada into its hallowed chamber to honour him and commend his remarkable achievement, a tradition usually reserved for visiting presidents and parliamentarians.</p> <p dir="ltr">Some of the lawmakers said young Dada’s success story, in the face of the challenges in the education sector, is compelling and an inspiration to the Nigerian youth and the country in general.<br> </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6LNiBrn2nMUP_Yt0f50jHI_8YIEqEkiOEas2v6UgRf03Qd6pRgX82Mtlg-b27bTo_pERbjptIOxpLEvcwci4DfcCW6C-lwqhK_n_JiYBBD_t-TObHtXsCz2CYQMK_pbHIJD3VJwOK1kv/s1600/UNILAG-300x162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6LNiBrn2nMUP_Yt0f50jHI_8YIEqEkiOEas2v6UgRf03Qd6pRgX82Mtlg-b27bTo_pERbjptIOxpLEvcwci4DfcCW6C-lwqhK_n_JiYBBD_t-TObHtXsCz2CYQMK_pbHIJD3VJwOK1kv/s640/UNILAG-300x162.jpg"> </a> </div>

Reps Honour Exceptional UNILAG Graduate

The House of Representatives on Wednesday honoured 29 year-old Ayodele Dada, who graduated with a cumulative grade point average of 5.0 from...

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Nigerians Are not Ready For Change by Adeyemi Babatunde

<p dir="ltr">As a Nigerian that I am, and will always be, gives me the liberty to write my view with love, compassion and understanding in my heart. This piece is out of political affiliation, gimmicks and intrigues. It's the best to purge my heart feelings and eschew from all form of sentiments, prejudice and bias. It is my firm belief that our nation Nigeria is just on the verge of announcing her arrival to the World as the rising sun of the new age. This is not the time we should be regretting our actions for voting "change" , laying emphasis on the woes of this administration and planning for another election when the first appropriation bill is yet to be approved by the National Assembly, which is a pause to the development of this country. Eight months ago we took a bold step with high hope, excitement and optimism of a better Nigeria by electing a new President who we believe has what it takes to build a country that we can be proud of, where due process and sanity in all sectors with high respect for the rule of law will be the order of the day. It is very unfortunate that today our hope is gradually dashing out as the ruling class has obviously displayed to the entire world that only the personality of the President, His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR is ready for the change we all clamoured for, while others ( senators,Governors  reps ,labour leaders, etc.) are mere opportunists, pretenders and dubious set of greedy leaders who hides under the integrity of the President to rob us of our mandates and continue in their dubious and fraudulent dealing at Government corridor. I am specifically unhappy with the situation of things in this country because am a victim of the circumstance but let us recall that the journey of a thousand miles start with a step. The day I was born wasn't the day I started crawling or talking, farmers would wait for days, months, and sometimes years before planted crops could be harvested, even those in academics would study for years with various researches before they can  be elevated to become a Professor. Then why can't we stop murmuring, complaining and becoming more impatient because we all know how corruption has eaten up virtually all the sectors of this country and we cannot expect a miracle in a short period. Few days ago I was listening to the Governor of Ekiti State sending abusive words to the President saying that "he is the voice of the voiceless and if the president hit him he is dead", something came to my mind that instant, to me he is a rabble rouser because there is nothing he is doing towards the development of his state than riding motorcycles, cutting meat in the public and all sorts of irrelevant things he is using to gain public attention while to some people he is a patriot.<br> A statesman looks for how his country will be transform, share policies, support the government and proffer solutions to pertinent  problems that affects the country not planning about electing another leader in the next election. Constructive criticism is welcomed because it puts those in corridor of power on toes.We are yearning for change but are we really ready? It seems to me that we Nigerians don't know what we want. Israel is a case study, they had the best leaders any nation could ever dream or think of. Their leaders were kind, great and supreme but the people didn't know the value of such leadership, they complained, grumbled, whined and demanded for better leaders.<br> Let me take you back to the class of history for a moment, Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president of the United States of America, he is probably the most popular and loved president in America today. He was brutally assassinated in office, despite the numerous success he achieved, and the emancipation proclamation to release black slaves yet he was so much hated and killed at the age of 56. Another example is Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore who built his country from a third world to a first world country, he's a modern example that you cannot have a good leader without some excess. He ruled his country for 30yrs and achieved huge success during his tenure which other world leaders envied and admired. After he left he was regarded as the greatest political leader of his country and was recognised only after his death.<br> When people clamour for a good leader, the leader would either be hated or rejected within an ample period of time. The change we voted for is a short walk to a long destination, it is something that cannot be achieved overnight. The truth is Nigerians are impatient, we want drastic change, miracle and magic within the short period of time the mantle of leadership was given to Buhari and since it can't be done then we should not support him?.<br> The point am trying to make is that the biggest problem of our nation is not the "leadership" is we the "people". The very individuals who called for good leadership would also call for his head. Why? Because he demands for the right things to be done that would bring temporary discomfort to the people.</p> <p dir="ltr">For example, it might require people not to jump queues irrespective of your status. I believe he would stop all the corrupt practices in the land which some people might interpret as taking away their bread, etc. Most importantly, instead of us waiting for a good, kind and angelic leader we must know that change must begin with each and every one of us. We all as citizens of this great nation must get rid of our wrong mindsets. We must individually take responsibility to reform our lifestyles. We must intentionally declare war against our own wrong attitudes, actions and inactions.<br> If this change does not happen first in the populace, this same populace with their wrong value systems would crucify any leader that comes to rule them with the right values. I therefore call for patience, tolerance and support for the government and its policies.. I belief that if we imbibe those virtues and change our mindset the change we clamour for will come to stay.<br><br></p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBEKR8GF31clmb2T9NO83BrezvpVAV5ogKIdITIZbgnT89EvU-aeiLaWfjve8Vi5yg91jtrylbX3pnBaZUPP4KfuVgv6g60Nf7sv-Fh1dVO_j6s3YEpY4mVB2yolxG8p243lU9NKzd69mK/s1600/IMG-20160318-WA0000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBEKR8GF31clmb2T9NO83BrezvpVAV5ogKIdITIZbgnT89EvU-aeiLaWfjve8Vi5yg91jtrylbX3pnBaZUPP4KfuVgv6g60Nf7sv-Fh1dVO_j6s3YEpY4mVB2yolxG8p243lU9NKzd69mK/s640/IMG-20160318-WA0000.jpg"> </a> </div>

Nigerians Are not Ready For Change by Adeyemi Babatunde

As a Nigerian that I am, and will always be, gives me the liberty to write my view with love, compassion and understanding in my heart. This...

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Buhari Meets With APC Caucus

<p dir="ltr">President Muhammadu Buhari has held a closed door meeting with some leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC).<br> <br> At the meeting holding at the Presidential Villa is the former Lagos State Governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and all the caucus members of the party.</p> <p dir="ltr">Many serving governors of the party and past state governors including Rabiu Kwankwaso of Kano State are also at the meeting.</p> <p dir="ltr">Also present are Senate President, Bukola Saraki and the former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, Speaker of the House of Representatives Yakubu Dogara, among others.<br> </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW3Qzv5ZDLStX1gc0t4RH3haQJyoBM0g9Y6uokseO9UHUUMySrRg-aDUogcbGD76qgYtQ6JwzoYrNduIz2OWrp_vlJhUiQXZncHCtIGG41DVjUQFft3H3AqY_PiXxQc0wPoadAgXh3rojo/s1600/TwImg-20150225-182320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW3Qzv5ZDLStX1gc0t4RH3haQJyoBM0g9Y6uokseO9UHUUMySrRg-aDUogcbGD76qgYtQ6JwzoYrNduIz2OWrp_vlJhUiQXZncHCtIGG41DVjUQFft3H3AqY_PiXxQc0wPoadAgXh3rojo/s640/TwImg-20150225-182320.jpg"> </a> </div>

Buhari Meets With APC Caucus

President Muhammadu Buhari has held a closed door meeting with some leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC). At the meeting holdin...

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Ekiti Lawmaker In Hospital After His Release From DSS Custody

<p dir="ltr">The Department of State Services (DSS) has released Mr Afolabi Akanni, a member of the Ekiti State House of Assembly who has been in the custody of the DSS since March 4.<br> The lawmaker is being investigated by the DSS over an alleged forgery during the Peoples Democratic Party’s House of Representatives primaries held in Ekiti North Federal Constituency-Two and an alleged assault on Justice John Adeyeye of the State High Court.</p> <p dir="ltr">He told reporters that he was released after he collapsed twice in detention.</p> <p dir="ltr">The lawmaker is currently receiving medical treatment at a private hospital in Abuja the nation’s capital city.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Akanni’s alleged abduction by operatives of the DSS had been condemned by  a federal lawmaker during one of the Senate’s proceedings.</p> <p dir="ltr">Senator Biodun Olujimi, informed the Senate, that on March 4, armed operatives from the DSS invaded the chamber of the Ekiti State House of Assembly.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The Senate is alarmed that on Friday, March 4, the hallowed chamber of the Ekiti State House of Assembly was invaded by armed men of the Department of State Services.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Not minding that the various committees of the House were meeting, more than 10 DSS men armed to the teeth invaded the assembly complex shooting sporadically into the air, thereby causing panic among members and staff of the House who had to scamper for safety and were afraid for their lives,” she told the Senate.</p> <p dir="ltr">After his disappearance, the state government alleged that he was dead, but the DSS on March 17 presented Mr Afolabi before newsmen in Abuja.</p> <p dir="ltr">After been held for over 20 days, the DSS released him.</p> <p dir="ltr">Source :Channelstv </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOdfPb480s9jkAgaReX_SYvUaTAQykrqa4ZGeW_GmRUITDPktppOoVBIrkRcWmy7N_OQZYy1-v6td7sG1WMdTpV81rFM3fkZ0MNq_9br6FwjizYbrI3cF566EAhH30KJqXtiSk7YosFyd/s1600/Ekiti-House-Assembly-300x161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOdfPb480s9jkAgaReX_SYvUaTAQykrqa4ZGeW_GmRUITDPktppOoVBIrkRcWmy7N_OQZYy1-v6td7sG1WMdTpV81rFM3fkZ0MNq_9br6FwjizYbrI3cF566EAhH30KJqXtiSk7YosFyd/s640/Ekiti-House-Assembly-300x161.jpg"> </a> </div>

Ekiti Lawmaker In Hospital After His Release From DSS Custody

The Department of State Services (DSS) has released Mr Afolabi Akanni, a member of the Ekiti State House of Assembly who has been in the cus...

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The NEC retreat is over: Here’s what they discussed in 7 thematic areas

<p dir="ltr">The National Economic Council (NEC) concluded its retreat on Tuesday. The retreat had as its theme, “Nigerian States: Multiple Centres of Prosperity”. NEC is chaired by Nigeria’s Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and has the 36 state governors and some ministers and heads of government agencies as members.</p> <p dir="ltr">At the end of the retreat, the vice president’s office released a communique with the highlights of the retreat:</p> <p dir="ltr">Agreement reached for concerted and consistent efforts to diversify revenue sources<br> Expand compliance on VAT, adopting a gradual plan for rate increase<br> Increase expenditure through borrowing, which should be invested in infrastructure<br> Federal and State Governments to focus on fiscal responsibility as a critical element in macro-economic balance<br> Increase investment in infrastructure through public private partnership (PPP)<br> 6.Develop financial inclusion strategies to cater for the poor and vulnerable population<br> Maintain a minimum level of capital expenditure of 30% in the budget<br> Thematic Area – Agriculture<br> 1. The Federal Government to re-position Bank of Agriculture to enhance its capacity to finance agriculture.<br> 2. Funding for Agricultural sector is considered critical and sources of intervention funding from the Central Bank of Nigeria should be considered<br> 3. A single digit interest rate for agricultural loans should be considered while duties and taxes for Agricultural products and equipment should be waived<br> 4. Develop strategic partnerships between Federal and State government. Each State should make specific commitments to crops in which it has comparative advantage and request Federal Government intervention<br> 5. National targets for self-sufficiency should be set for identified crops, which should be monitored. Tomato paste – 2016, Rice – 2018, Wheat – 2019<br> 6. The Federal and State Governments should roll out agricultural extension services nationwide<br> 7. The Commodity Exchanges should be established for price regulation and avoidance of losses due to lack of markets. The Abuja Commodity Exchange should be revitalised<br> 8. The National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) should be re-established<br> 9. Federal Government should develop an Agriculture Implementation plan whereby State Governments are encouraged to identify at least two crops in which they have comparative advantage<br> 10. States should open up of rural/feeder roads to facilitate transportation of agricultural produce to be supported by the Federal Government<br> 11.The Federal and State Governments should establish minimum price guarantee for farm produce<br> 12.The Federal Government should provide immediate funding to upscale efforts of Agricultural Institutes of Research and Development across Nigeria<br> 13. State Governments should also be encouraged to fund research and development in agriculture through technical colleges, universities and research institutions Thematic Area – Solid Minerals<br> 1. Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to complete and present the solid minerals development roadmap. This framework should address issues of illegal miner, licenses, taxes and royalties by 31st March 2016<br> 2. Federal government to engage with state government on the roadmap and agree any amendment that may be required by 30th June 2016<br> 3. Initiate relevant legislative changes that maybe necessitated by the agreed roadmap by 31stJuly 2016<br> 4. Conclude the revalidation/recertification of all mining leases by 30th September 2016<br> 5. Agree with states and local government on respective responsibilities for developing feeder roads and other critical infrastructure for solid minerals development<br> 6. Federal Government and States to set deadlines to achieve self-sufficiency in Bitumen/Asphalt and tiles (to discourage/stop importation)<br> 7. Make and communicate final decisions on operationalization of Ajaokuta steel plant by 30th June 2016<br> 8. Establishment of joint committee to address issues of data on quantity and quality of minerals exploited and exported<br> 9. Setting up of mining cadastral zonal offices for proximity to States for the purpose of issuing licenses and easy monitoring by States<br> 10. Discourage use of wood for cooking by promoting use of coal briquettes<br> 11. Guarantee access to finance solid minerals development via intervention funds and private sector capital<br> 12. Block revenue leakages in the sector through effective monitoring of activities in the mining sector<br> 13. Organise artisanal/small-scale miners as a mechanism for reducing illegal mining and Establish Mines Surveillance Taskforce by September 2016</p> <p dir="ltr">Thematic Area – Investment, Industrialisation and Enabling Monetary policies<br> 1.Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment (MITI) to develop a matrix of actions to be taken by Federal and State Governments towards achieving the targeted improvements in Ease of Doing Business ranking by 30th April 2016<br> 2. Present an incentive scheme for States taking actions towards improvement of the investment climate in their States including grants by 30th September 2016<br> 3. Forge strong links between the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) and the State Investment Promotion Agencies<br> 4. States to collaborate more actively on regional basis on investments and industrialization<br> 5. The Federal Government should work with the States and other stakeholders to create an enabling environment for trade and investment through the implementation of the Nigerian Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) to encourage industrialization<br> 6. Make environment conducive for the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises to create jobs for the unemployed and undertake deliberate policies to create access to funds<br> 7. State and Federal Governments must emphasize the patronage of “Made in Nigeria” products. “Import competition” rather than “import substitution” should be emphasized<br> 8. Governors to set up task forces to monitor implementation of trade/ investment policies and strengthen planning institutions by linking federal and sub-national planning; in this regard, a monthly meeting between the Minister of Budget & National Planning and State Commissioners for planning will be institutionalised<br> 9. States to set up one-stop shop for investors where they do not currently exist to attract investment and improve on IGR Safeguard competitive market economy<br> 10. Promote regional cooperation on investment and industrialisation<br> 11. Implement institutional and structural reforms as a way of improving the efficacy of monetary policy including greater consultation with the National Economic Council<br> 12. Predictability and consistency of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s communication to key stakeholders is required to manage expectations<br> 13. The Central Bank of Nigeria should carry the States along in some of their reforms in areas of SMEs and Agricultural funding initiatives<br> 14. Long-term development goals should anchor policy decisions<br> 15. Effective regulation & supervision to improve confidence in the soundness and stability of the banking system</p> <p dir="ltr">Thematic Area – Infrastructure and Services<br> 1.Develop infrastructure delivery plan considering current financial capabilities driven principally by the goal of improvement of the quality of life for the populace<br> 2.Develop financing model for infrastructure projects<br> 3. Integrate training and job creation components in infrastructure projects<br> 4. Implement empowerment and entrepreneurship policies to foster inclusive growth</p> <p dir="ltr">Thematic Area – Investing in our people<br> 1. Federal and State Governments to work collaboratively to ensure sustainability of the school feeding and other social protection programmes<br> 2. Cooperation from the States’ Ministries of Education and State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEBs) for the Teacher Corp program<br> 3. Provide logistics support on the proposed upgrade of 75 existing National Directorate of Employment (NDE) facilities (across the various States) to Empowerment Centers<br> 4. Cooperation and coordination with the States on their specific job creation efforts<br> 5. State Government support on identified needs such as infrastructure and/or space for innovation hubs<br> 6. State Government support for artisan training, scoping and support for existing artisan cultures, use of existing training facilities<br> 7. Institutionalize a single register as a platform for targeting the authentic poorest and vulnerable for safety net programs; for government, donor agency, organizations or individuals<br> 8. Creating a delivery mechanism that ensures efficient, consistent timely and direct payments in the remotest parts of the country<br> 9. Boost productivity and financial inclusion for the poorest and most vulnerable<br> Thematic Area – Revenue Generation and Fiscal Stability<br> 1. There is need for deliberate effort to generate relevant data on the respective economies of the states and the nation generally in order to drive revenue generation<br> 2. FIRS and SIRS need to invest in relevant technology to support efforts to improve tax collection<br> 3. There is a need to develop incentive schemes for federal and state revenue generating agencies<br> 4. FIRS and SIRS need to actively collaborate on initiatives to improve tax collection, including joint audits of major corporate tax payers<br> 5. All state governments are encouraged to establish efficiency units to review/enhance the quality of expenditure as well as plug revenue leakages<br> 6. Focus on property and consumption taxes will help in improving revenues in a fair manner<br> 7. Tax-payer education should be intensified to expand the tax base and avoid political back-lash from intensifying tax collection<br> 8. State Government are encouraged to rationalise number of Ministers, Commissioners and Permanent Secretaries<br> 9. Cost control measures should be identified and implemented on an ongoing basis; in this regard various examples from Nigeria and other countries are recommended</p> <p dir="ltr">Thematic Area – Survival of States and Beyond</p> <p dir="ltr">Strengthen States Peer Review Mechanism under auspices of the Governors Forum and the National Economic Council (NEC) to promote sharing of good practices between the Federal and States <u>Governments</u></p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_HydGJs1s5HfAWzrlTd79ERv_muN6NbFHf7yzGLZTUt-yHl7HzlDPn5bvxoxEY1W3DoUuCa09Z_c6UCf58RARtc6DuftQz1kfZv37tlUqYgQQs0jOQydf4lO-_0WJz8uu-60hCqhbOsc/s1600/IMG_20160315_102840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_HydGJs1s5HfAWzrlTd79ERv_muN6NbFHf7yzGLZTUt-yHl7HzlDPn5bvxoxEY1W3DoUuCa09Z_c6UCf58RARtc6DuftQz1kfZv37tlUqYgQQs0jOQydf4lO-_0WJz8uu-60hCqhbOsc/s640/IMG_20160315_102840.jpg"> </a> </div>

The NEC retreat is over: Here’s what they discussed in 7 thematic areas

The National Economic Council (NEC) concluded its retreat on Tuesday. The retreat had as its theme, “Nigerian States: Multiple Centres of Pr...

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FG To Inject 350bn Naira Into Nigeria’s Economy

<p dir="ltr">The Nigerian government says it will inject 350 billion Naira into the economy in the next few months to stimulate it.<br> <br> The government’s plan was announced at the end a two-day National Economic Council (NEC) retreat held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, the nation’s capital.</p> <p dir="ltr">Explaining that the Federal Government is keen at using the 2016 budget to fast-track economic diversification, the Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun, said efforts had been put in place to ensure that the spending on the capital projects trickles down to all Nigerians.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mrs Adeosun, in her paper at the second day of the National Economic Council retreat in Abuja, said: “We are going to spend money and this will be done in a disciplined manner and in right places.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The Federal Government has a platform and system of control in place to ensure transparency. Spending will not be reckless.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We are pumping 350 billion Naira into the economy in the next one quarter to help the economy to bounce back. That has never happened in the history of this country”.</p> <p dir="ltr">According to her, part of the money would be used to offset contractual debts.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Robust Revenue Drive”</p> <p dir="ltr">With this huge spending, the minister believed that “companies that had laid off staff and those that had abandoned projects are going back to sites and the economy will bounce back”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Our priority is that the wages of workers will be paid. We have engaged the contractors to let them know that the payment of management fees has to wait, this is how to make the money to trickle down to Nigerians,” she told the gathering.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Minister further urged state governments to take their destinies in their own hands by proactively driving revenue generation, saying “now is the time to put in place a robust revenue drive by the states”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“There is need to have a business and commercial approach to revenue generation,” she emphasised.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mrs Adeosun also stressed the need for the Nigerian government to look at data management, saying “nobody can succeed in revenue generation without the numbers. It is important to report accurately and understand the billings versus the revenue coming in”.</p> <p dir="ltr">She told the gathering that the Finance Ministry had already strengthened the Post-Mortem Sub-Committee of the Federation Account.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The big differences between the NNPC and the Federation accounts are now things of the past.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We now run a transparent structure. We have appointed three professionals to help clean the system. They write formal reports and get formal responses to all the questions,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">Speaking on the plans for the Customs service, the minister said the Federal Government had agreed to review the remunerations of the Customs Service.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We look at the Customs and found out that it has one of the lowest salaries at least from their peer group. That is a problem. Here you have a custom officer being paid 50, 000 Naira monthly and you task him to collect duty of nearly two million Naira.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This means we are looking for trouble. So we are working on better remuneration for the Customs.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The other issue is the equipment being used by the agency. Their ability to scan containers is very important. Classifications of containers are faulty now because of the kind of equipment they use.</p> <p dir="ltr">Ability to scan a container and know what is in it is limited,” the Minister stated.</p> <p dir="ltr">Some other resolutions reached at the retreat which she read out to reporters were focused on increasing Internally Generated Revenue and fostering collaboration between Federal and State Inland Revenues to ensure there was an alignment.</p> <p dir="ltr">The retreat was said to have been muted by the Nigerian Governors Forum to find a solution to the economic problems they had faced over time.</p> <p dir="ltr">To solve the problems, the Chairman of the National Economic Council convened the two-day retreat.</p> <p dir="ltr">Other resolutions reached at the retreat were read out by the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Udo Udoma.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano said a resolution was reached on the integration of trading in infrastructure projects and investing in the Nigerian people through the school feeding programme.</p> <p dir="ltr">The National Economic Council also established two committees, one of them headed by the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, to monitor the full implementation of the resolutions from the retreat, as well as provide a progress report on the implementation.</p> <p dir="ltr">Source :Channelstv <br> </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizPldjW8OgcmANJteZximQDej-tKb-dr-hKnqo7Bkx7szj7x5yNaea4YXSIP_9pa_ZhzWaLo-U0_0uw33z0dxUgOsutithgDloAcq7qddagWOukd43xDcP0F5IivZa1zEHsN0eMci4vWS1/s1600/Kemi-Adeosun-finance-minister-300x162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizPldjW8OgcmANJteZximQDej-tKb-dr-hKnqo7Bkx7szj7x5yNaea4YXSIP_9pa_ZhzWaLo-U0_0uw33z0dxUgOsutithgDloAcq7qddagWOukd43xDcP0F5IivZa1zEHsN0eMci4vWS1/s640/Kemi-Adeosun-finance-minister-300x162.jpg"> </a> </div>

FG To Inject 350bn Naira Into Nigeria’s Economy

The Nigerian government says it will inject 350 billion Naira into the economy in the next few months to stimulate it. The government’s p...

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NYSC : Do You Dream Of Becoming A Successful Entrepreneur.?

<p dir="ltr">DO YOU DREAM OF BECOMING A SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR? YOU MIGHT JUST BE INTERESTED IN<br> THIS INFORMATION!!!</p> <p dir="ltr">Heritage Bank has been adopted by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as the sole pilot bank for the Youth Innovative Entrepreneurship Development Programme (YIEDP).<br> The programme is aimed at harnessing the latent entrepreneurial spirit among the teeming youths by providing timely and affordable loans to implement their<br> business ideas. This further provides a sustainable mechanism to stimulate<br> employment, contribute to the Nation’s non-oil GDP, and address the challenge of youth restiveness. The following categories of youth (aged 18 – 35) are<br> eligible under this scheme:<br> * Serving youth corps members<br> * Non-NYSC (not more than 5 years post NYSC)</p> <p dir="ltr">Qualified Business Sectors:<br> * Agro – Allied,<br> * Food Processing / Preservation,<br> * Arts & Crafts,<br> * Manufacturing / Cottage Industry,<br> * Information & Communication Technology (ICT),<br> * Construction Support,<br> * Power & Energy,<br> * Education & Financial Inclusion,<br> * Film & Photography,<br> * Automobile,<br> * Others<br> The details below are relevant for all eligible youth:<br> Eligible youth can apply for the loan through this portal<br> http://www.yiedp-hbng.com/using his/her NYSC State Code.<br> Applications can be made as an Individual or as a group (of<br> 3-5 applicants with similar business interest). A single applicant can access up to a facility limit N3m while group<br> project jointly owned by 3-5 qualified beneficiaries can access up to a facility limit of N10m. Applicants can also<br> track application status via the same portal. Security: Graduate entrepreneurs will use their Tertiary institution(s) certificate(s) and their NYSC discharge<br> certificate. Serving Corp members will pledge their NYSC discharge certificate and their tertiary institution(s) certificates(s). Also, legal ownership of assets financed by the Bank and 3rd party guarantors will be requested as additional collateral from all entrepreneurs.<br> The application portal will be open for a limited period. However, you can refine your business ideas before the<br> submission.</p> <p dir="ltr">Please, share with as many youths as you know!!!</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMyfoxb3OxUGUAvwNdpJdTZTAKdDcrT9xvQujjDq1u0aJ_Gm9jaiCJGme7IKAumIW-EvVb-R-kGkWlbMUOZleSwKW2BDLH8Eted1w5WaawljwqFUxZw5yF9yZT9Qxz3nAYFQGJD3-06j5t/s1600/12891747_979799622102566_111568754674075585_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMyfoxb3OxUGUAvwNdpJdTZTAKdDcrT9xvQujjDq1u0aJ_Gm9jaiCJGme7IKAumIW-EvVb-R-kGkWlbMUOZleSwKW2BDLH8Eted1w5WaawljwqFUxZw5yF9yZT9Qxz3nAYFQGJD3-06j5t/s640/12891747_979799622102566_111568754674075585_o.jpg"> </a> </div>

NYSC : Do You Dream Of Becoming A Successful Entrepreneur.?

DO YOU DREAM OF BECOMING A SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEUR? YOU MIGHT JUST BE INTERESTED IN THIS INFORMATION!!! Heritage Bank has been adopted by ...

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APC Demands Cancellation Of Rivers Rerun Election

<p dir="ltr">The All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned the conduct of the Rivers rerun elections.<br> The party held a press conference to review activities during the polls.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Chairman of the party in Rivers State, Mr Davies Ekanya, told journalists that the APC is unhappy with the outcome of the polls.</p> <p dir="ltr">On the arrest of the Secretary to the State Government, the APC Chairman said it was in connection to an assassination attempt, although Governor Nyesom Wike insists the arrest was masterminded by the APC.</p> <p dir="ltr">In his own press conference held earlier, he accused the opposition of colluding with security agencies to arrest his Secretary to the State Government and instigate violence during the elections.</p> <p dir="ltr">Governor Nyesom Wike had blamed INEC and the Army for cases of violence at the polls.</p> <p dir="ltr">He said that while INEC failed to print a uniform form with federal government seal for all the council areas, the soldiers according to him acted beyond their brief by attempting to stop party agents from accompanying electoral materials.</p> <p dir="ltr">The electoral body has declared results of one federal constituency and nine state constituencies.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Peoples Democratic Party won the entire constituencies. Elections were also canceled in eight other local government areas.</p> <p dir="ltr">Source :Channelstv </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvTHh4yhVePpp99rCfb6YFUNq0N8R8iD2PemSRDXhRjKZXgMUiCZhZFZuvWOdS8LYjC7t95F1iLYcE5ZWIvhfAwH0paa3aprpfoQgYRbBf0EU0Fw2MDJgDN2jeCSLitGuAPznhDKZo6pW3/s1600/APC-Logo-300x161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvTHh4yhVePpp99rCfb6YFUNq0N8R8iD2PemSRDXhRjKZXgMUiCZhZFZuvWOdS8LYjC7t95F1iLYcE5ZWIvhfAwH0paa3aprpfoQgYRbBf0EU0Fw2MDJgDN2jeCSLitGuAPznhDKZo6pW3/s640/APC-Logo-300x161.jpg"> </a> </div>

APC Demands Cancellation Of Rivers Rerun Election

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned the conduct of the Rivers rerun elections. The party held a press conference to review ac...

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Toyota Unveils Its First Made In Nigeria Vehicle In Lagos

<p dir="ltr">Toyota Nigeria broke records in Nigeria yesterday (March 21) when it  unveiled its first locally-assembled vehicle in Lagos. The Managing Director of Toyota Nigeria, Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo, said the new unveiled vehicle, a Hiace bus, was assembled in the company’s plant in Lagos, built with 30,000-unit production capacity.<br> Mr. Ade-Ojo said the plant’s facility which comprises of two lines is expected to assemble mini buses, pickups and other light commercial vehicles. He added that the new vehicle was assembled as a test case, as the company make plans to begin its mass production soon.<br> “We need to introduce some changes to the plant so as to achieve efficiency in the operations. With the current economic situation, we are looking at starting the mass production in a couple of months.<br> “We are constantly training technicians and as far as the plant is concerned, we are assuring customers that we will continuously improve the assembling process of our vehicles to ensure that the vehicles meet international standards.”<br> He however emphasized that no automobile company is manufacturing any vehicle in Nigeria, stressing that “what everybody does is to assemble the parts as the parts are still shipped in from overseas.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Last year, Toyota Nigeria disclosed its plan to establish a vehicle assembly plant in the country to join Nissan, Ford, Kia, Peugeot and a host of other auto firms already assembling vehicles locally. The plant, which occupies a 40,000 square meter of land, was built to handle different models.<br> This is coming about two and a half years after the announcement of the Automotive Industry Development Plan by the Federal Government, which raised the import duty on cars from 22 per cent to 70 per cent in order to discourage vehicle importation.<br> Few weeks ago Toyota Nigeria recalled 900 units of RAV4 produced between 2006 and 2012 to fix possible faulty real seat belts.<br> According to the managing director, the recall was an order from the mother company, Toyota Motor Corporation, as a proactive safety measure to avert danger to the lives of people occupying the back seats of the vehicle in the event of an accident.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHxw4loS5DTF0VJj5hD_zeqjLnrvAfHCFLh3-v6zRSNItWx6Vo9r8_Rl3A5ptM5wtVrQVSisl1rE3RNorYQ5swpZJCSKHy6s5DpehnsgvTHC01KBOK35TSB0fzD47spy2sY7f_rvqs3z2-/s1600/Toyota-Ng-e1458637416351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHxw4loS5DTF0VJj5hD_zeqjLnrvAfHCFLh3-v6zRSNItWx6Vo9r8_Rl3A5ptM5wtVrQVSisl1rE3RNorYQ5swpZJCSKHy6s5DpehnsgvTHC01KBOK35TSB0fzD47spy2sY7f_rvqs3z2-/s640/Toyota-Ng-e1458637416351.jpg"> </a> </div>

Toyota Unveils Its First Made In Nigeria Vehicle In Lagos

Toyota Nigeria broke records in Nigeria yesterday (March 21) when it  unveiled its first locally-assembled vehicle in Lagos. The Managing Di...

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Corps Member Shot Dead During Rivers Re-run Polls

<p dir="ltr">The news yesterday revealed a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member on election duties who had lost his life through gun shot during Rivers state legislative election on Saturday March 19.<br> Okonta Samuel Dumebi , an orphan, who hailed from Illah in Delta State, was on duty at Ahoada West Local Government Area where he and two of his colleagues were attacked and shot at by hoodlums who were trying to frustrate the conduct of a free and fair election. Unlike the two others were lucky to escape into hiding, including another Corps member Anana Aniekan Udoetor, who was declared missing after the shooting, but later returned alive, Okonta was shot dead.<br> The NYSC yesterday confirmed Okonta’s death, describing his killing as “primitive, barbaric and ungodly”. Official statement issued by NYSC management confirmed Okonta Dumebi Samuel’s (RV/15B/5539) death during the weekend.<br> “Corps member Okonta Samuel, who until his demise served at GCSS Ukpeliede, was shot dead by some unknown gunmen in Ahoada West Local Government Area.”<br> They expressed regret and condemned the violent means through which the young orphan was killed and pledge to work with relevant agencies to ensure that the perpetrators of such heinous crime are caught to face the wrath of law.<br> “We consider Okonta Samuel’s death as a great loss, not only to his immediate family, but also to all of us in the NYSC family and the entire nation.“May the Almighty God grant him eternal rest, and give his immediate family and the rest of us the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”<br> The late Okonta attended Illah Grammar School and Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, Edo State.<br> Illah Community Youths expressed shock over Dumebi’s death, describing as it “great loss”. Commenting on Dumebi’s social page yesterday, Mary Obosi Egbuchiem, who lives in Abuja, wrote: “What a world we are. The last time I saw you (the late Dumebi) was during my son’s dedication. Oh God, come and rescue your children from the hands of death. Tears. RIP Dumebi.”<br> Uzor Amos wrote: “My best friend is no more. What sad news. In fact, I can’t believe this. Well, may your soul rest in peace my brother and friend.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Ojubi Ezenwa, another Illah youth, wrote: “What a bitter story. Unforgettable pains have been caused to us, we the youth of Illah. I can’t still believe you are no more. Rest in peace is all we have to say, brother. But, it is so sad that we did not see again, until I heard that you are dead.”<br> Obiageli Nwokocha, who broke the news to Illah youth, wrote: “Of what purpose was the rerun election in Rivers State to the poor and innocent masses? Dead bodies found all over the state. Why are politicians killing those who are not part of them? I am writing this with a heavy heart. It is only in Nigeria that youth service is risky. If Boko Haram did not kill Corps members, politicians will…<br> “Losing old people is better than losing a young vibrant youth that should make great impact to our future. Dumebi Okonta Samuel! I am speechless, shocked and in pain. You left so early without a notice. You only went to serve your fatherland, but it is obvious the land does not serve you well. I have always known you to have good relationship with God. I pray that the Lord receive and welcome your soul to heaven. To my Illah youth and friends, we need to embrace God. RIP my friend.”<br> No fewer than seven people were also believed to have been killed in various parts of the state in the bloody election. But the police said four people died and that 22 people were arrested.<br> Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will investigate the allegation that some fake result sheets were being distributed during the election. The alleged distribution of fake result sheets resulted in violence in some parts of the state, leading to the cancellation of the election in some local government areas on election day.<br> The commission’s Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Mr Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, said a meeting had been slated for tomorrow to review the election, which could not be concluded as a result of the violence.<br> Osaze-Uzzi insisted that there was no way fake election materials could have been distributed by INEC’s election officers. He said the allegation of fake result that was distributed will be investigated. He also said there would be a meeting on Wednesday with the Rivers Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), monitors and supervisors who went to the state for the election.<br> Uzzi said the issue will be discussed during the meeting afterwards, a public statement would be released on their findings. On when the commission would release the remaining results of the election, he said the decision on it would be taken at the Wednesday meeting.<br> “We are not going back to the state until the atmosphere is conducive to have a violent-free election. But I don’t want to pre-empt anything ahead of the Wednesday meeting.”</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi408WO0_3oFpY6OTGi948R7tW7-E9CoAkh9jMEskSbc-dFj9g_YywLRMvnTZLml1Btxtk8oH8cD3HJdzRZ80C1vMt84OX2QeSvQyLbveBJ2FNKxiATRilgj68qfuC_q74HEVlr6GCF4YbC/s1600/NYSC1-e1457969315628.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi408WO0_3oFpY6OTGi948R7tW7-E9CoAkh9jMEskSbc-dFj9g_YywLRMvnTZLml1Btxtk8oH8cD3HJdzRZ80C1vMt84OX2QeSvQyLbveBJ2FNKxiATRilgj68qfuC_q74HEVlr6GCF4YbC/s640/NYSC1-e1457969315628.jpg"> </a> </div>

Corps Member Shot Dead During Rivers Re-run Polls

The news yesterday revealed a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member on election duties who had lost his life through gun shot during Ri...

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FG To Review Forest Reserves Policies

<p dir="ltr">The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to commence the review of its policies on forest reserves.<br> The Minister of Environment, Mrs Amina Mohammed, made this known on Monday at an event to mark the 2016 International Day of Forests.</p> <p dir="ltr">She said that the nation was yet to tap into the economic benefits of its forest resources, owing to inadequate enforcement of the regulatory policies.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Minister added that the Federal Government was looking at the possibility of sanctioning those involved in indiscriminate felling.</p> <p dir="ltr">“We need to review the National Forest Policy to ensure among other things certification of roads and ensure that illegal loggers.</p> <p dir="ltr">“In fact, we need to find the incentives and not just deal with the penalties. There have to be incentives to stop the logging to begin with.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It is not that we don’t have the policies or the regulations. Nigeria has enough regulations and Acts but enforcing them is a very big challenge and that is what we intend to try to do,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Minister further stressed the need for genuine partnership in tackling the issue.</p> <p dir="ltr">March 21 of every year has been set aside globally to create a platform to enlighten people on the importance of all types of tress in and outside forests.</p> <p dir="ltr">The forests play a vital role in our daily lives, even as over 2,000 indigenous cultures depend on forests for their livelihood such as feeding, medicine and shelter.</p> <p dir="ltr">Source : Channelstv </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ICqj7AvdgbhKXofWFUswWUtue3qksL2N9sNtomQ8F1k2rQ-aFD4NQ0u_21p7Oe34FDFBUFxlr8ojgkGUlXG79-OX7Oq_IqIYyEWw2TgVoVxKwu5GfD66Qp1ZyBtUCsvVvXkpJBoZ6V1S/s1600/Amina-Mohammed-Environment-300x162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ICqj7AvdgbhKXofWFUswWUtue3qksL2N9sNtomQ8F1k2rQ-aFD4NQ0u_21p7Oe34FDFBUFxlr8ojgkGUlXG79-OX7Oq_IqIYyEWw2TgVoVxKwu5GfD66Qp1ZyBtUCsvVvXkpJBoZ6V1S/s640/Amina-Mohammed-Environment-300x162.jpg"> </a> </div>

FG To Review Forest Reserves Policies

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to commence the review of its policies on forest reserves. The Minister of Environme...

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Buhari Congratulates President-Elect Of Benin Republic

<p dir="ltr">Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari, has congratulated the President-elect of Benin Republic, Mr Patrice Talon, on his electoral victory in the presidential run-off on Sunday, March 20.<br> President Buhari also commended the Government and people of Benin Republic on the peaceful and orderly conduct of the presidential election.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Nigerian leader saluted the courage and statesmanship of Prime Minister Lionel Zinsou and presidential candidate of the ruling coalition in upholding the democratic process by promptly congratulating his main challenger, Mr Talon, on his electoral victory.</p> <p dir="ltr">President Buhari also commended President Boni Yayi for his leadership throughout the electoral process and for his invaluable contribution to democratic governance in the sub-region, evidently demonstrated in the successful conduct of the presidential elections.</p> <p dir="ltr">He said he was encouraged by the determination and exemplary conduct demonstrated by Beninese in coming out en masse to perform their civic duties.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The successful conclusion of the electoral process marks an important step in consolidating democracy in the sub-region and a beacon for other African countries to emulate,” President Buhari stated.</p> <p dir="ltr">He expressed optimism that the Beninese would give the incoming government all the necessary support to succeed while reaffirming that Nigeria, as a beneficiary of the dividends of democracy, would continue to build strong partnerships with its neighbours for the peace, progress and prosperity of our citizens.</p> <p dir="ltr">The result of the Benin Republic’s Presidential election was announced by the Autonomous National Electoral Commission earlier on Monday.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Eec_hUi34lQ/VvBwLRnuIXI/AAAAAAAAASA/s1600/Patrice-Talon-300x162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Eec_hUi34lQ/VvBwLRnuIXI/AAAAAAAAASA/s640/Patrice-Talon-300x162.jpg"> </a> </div>

Buhari Congratulates President-Elect Of Benin Republic

Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari, has congratulated the President-elect of Benin Republic, Mr Patrice Talon, on his electoral victory i...

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José Mourinho Signs Pre-Contract With Man. U

<p dir="ltr">Former Chelsea manager, José Mourinho has reportedly signed a pre-contract agreement to join Manchester United, due up to £15m in compensation if he is not appointed by the club by 1 June.<br> If by May 1, Man. U does not complete the deal, Mourinho will be entitled to £5 million compensation. Should negotiations drag on beyond June 1 or break down, the 20-time English champions would owe the Portuguese a further £10 million.<br> This new deal is in view to replacing Louis van Gaal as manager of  Manchester United next season.<br> Spanish newspaper El País on Saturday night reports that, a source from his agent Jorge Mendes’s company Gestifute has now confirmed the 53-year-old has already signed an agreement to move to Old Trafford last month, although United still reserves the right to change their mind.<br> “If United do not sign the final contract (with Mourinho) before 1 May, they must pay £5m; if by 1 June he’s still not signed, they shall pay another £10m,” read the report. “May is the key, because it’s the month in which the vast majority of the signings of players are closed and the plans formed.”</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMKYQUPas1V-5aYfEPPlrhWrEKD9A6WCvJStLUQ9JaeBAJLkAdPirh4xpgmShIuZg8lGLvcBgJUZETVJpUn8jBEmEi7Hp96n8MCxd9lDxbtu-apt_kzTmcshe20lPJdWz3VZI9YWTqiPVt/s1600/Jose-Mourinho-e1458560407571.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMKYQUPas1V-5aYfEPPlrhWrEKD9A6WCvJStLUQ9JaeBAJLkAdPirh4xpgmShIuZg8lGLvcBgJUZETVJpUn8jBEmEi7Hp96n8MCxd9lDxbtu-apt_kzTmcshe20lPJdWz3VZI9YWTqiPVt/s640/Jose-Mourinho-e1458560407571.jpg"> </a> </div>

José Mourinho Signs Pre-Contract With Man. U

Former Chelsea manager, José Mourinho has reportedly signed a pre-contract agreement to join Manchester United, due up to £15m in compensati...

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The Misogynists in the Nigerian Senate

<p dir="ltr">What Senator Biodun Olujimi (PDP, Ekiti South) did with her presentation of a bill on gender and equal opportunities on March 15, is the equivalent of trying one’s luck. But she deserves praise for her courage and progressive views, and for forcing the issue so well. The subject has generated useful debate and the Senate President has been forced to reassure the public that the bill will be re-presented, after it has been re-drafted “to address some of the reservations that were expressed on the floor of the Senate.”<br> This is the third time that the Senate will throw out this same bill. Senate President Bukola Saraki knows too well that to address the expressed reservations is to kill the bill completely. There may be no hope of a misogynistic Senate passing a Bill that seeks to empower women and the girl-child, protect them from discrimination and violence, rescue them from being treated like chattel, and ensure that women play more prominent roles in public and private decision-making processes. The Bill further seeks to protect the rights of women in marriages.<br> It should not be surprising that the male-dominated Senate (102 men to 7 women) rose against the Bill. A few male voices supported Senator Olujimi, but those against the Bill were determined. They quoted the Bible. They cited the Quoran. They dismissed any thought of women having more powers or voice or being treated like equals to men. They even cited culture and tradition. One newspaper stated matter of factly, that Senator Olujimi “incurred the wrath of Northern Senators”. When the matter was put to a vote, the naysayers of course won. So, given the gender imbalance in the Senate and the shortage of enlightened men on the floor, if that Bill is presented a thousand times, the outcome is predictable. It is perhaps for this reason that a different kind of strategy will be required to make any progress in the important fight for the treatment of women’s rights as human rights.<br> Nigeria is signatory to different international conventions on the elimination of all forms of violence and discrimination against women. The Constitution also forbids discrimination against any person on the grounds of gender and circumstances of birth. Long before the internationalization of the struggle for women’s rights and its NGO-nization, there have been records of valiant Nigerian women pushing the envelope and demonstrating through advocacy and individual accomplishments that women are capable partners in society’s development, and that they deserve full citizenship rights.<br> But just as was demonstrated again on the floor of the Senate, religion, culture and male chauvinism are major stumbling blocks. Even some of the most educated men around cannot stand the idea of women being given more opportunities. Those male Senators who shot down the Olujimi Bill must have been wondering what gave her the effrontery to suggest that men and women should begin to share power and opportunities as equals. The man who led the assault against the bill and who reportedly later celebrated the victory is actually the same man who was once publicly upbraided for marrying a 13-year old girl, a girl about the age of his granddaughter! In that same Senate, one of the members while declaring his assets sometimes last year, listed his two wives as part of his assets!<br> A gender and equal opportunities Bill should help provide stronger legislative framework for protecting women from all forms of discrimination, but legislative intervention may well not be enough. The real battle-field is in the identified areas of religion, culture and tradition, and the absence of political will to enforce relevant laws that promote social justice. Societies don’t just move from one level of enlightenment to the other: leadership is required. But as it is, Nigeria has leaders who are male chauvinists, whose attachment to culture and religion prevents them from understanding the true meaning of human rights. This is why it seems so difficult to convince Nigerian patriarchs that certain religious and cultural practices simply do not make sense.<br> What kind of culture or tradition allows a man to marry a child, for example? What kind of tradition recommends that a widow should be humiliated and subjected to inhuman practices in 2016? In some communities in the East, a woman cannot taste the new yam of the season as they call it. Men must taste it first. Among Igbos, even the most enlightened man will not allow a woman break kolanut in a gathering of men. Leviration is still practised in some Nigerian communities. One year after the millennial deadline on gender equality, there are still families in Nigeria where the girl-child is considered fit only for marriage, and so when male children are sent to school, the girls are asked to hawk wares, until they are ripe enough to be married off. In other places, wives cannot inherit their husbands’ estates, and daughters are disinherited on the basis of gender. Patterns of this discrimination against the female gender exist even in workplaces today, and significantly in politics. I recall the case of one of these banks, which once instructed female employees not to get pregnant, within the first year of employment! And in politics, women are organized as separate groups with someone called Woman Leader, whereas there is no such equivalent for men.<br> The manifold existence of constructive gender discrimination explains the speed and alacrity with which the gender and equal opportunity bill is always dismissed whenever it is brought up in the National Assembly. The advocacy for women empowerment and an end to gender discrimination is also severely limited. It is restricted to non-governmental organizations, and a few influential voices in society who understand the issues, attend international conferences and who over the years have been organizing workshops and rallies to conscientize political, religious and traditional leaders. But this has not quite helped, and this may well be because the majority of the core affected women are excluded from the campaign.<br> The Biodun Olujimis of Nigeria are not necessarily the ones seeking freedom from discrimination. They can hold their own, they can negotiate power at many levels; the ones in need of help are the poor women and girl-children who are trapped under male domination, poor, disempowered, voiceless, and incapable of realizing their potentials to the fullest. The ones in need of help are those poor widows who are humiliated by in-laws, the millions of girls who are out of school just because they are female, the under-aged girls who are married off to old men, against their wish, and the army of dispossessed women whose lives have been condemned to a routine of raising children, fetching water and working on the farm.<br> These victims themselves need to be mobilized into the struggle for the full recognition of the human rights of women. They need to be given a voice. It is not a task for NGOs alone. The struggle must become more inclusive. We have Ministers and Commissioners in charge of women affairs and social development. They are busy travelling from one international workshop to the other. Such a department of government can do a lot more. To get Nigerian men to respect the human rights of women, the womenfolk must work together and support each other, and develop the kind of advocacy that was defeated last Tuesday into a sustainable, organized movement. The tone of the advocacy should also change: too often, gender and equal opportunity issues are presented as pleas, as if women are seeking favour and understanding from the men: please-give-us-more-powers, allow-us-to-also-exercise-authority; we-want-more-women-in-government. For as long as the language of negotiation sounds that beggarly, not much progress can be made. Nothing short of an organized women’s movement around the core issues is what is required.<br> In the long run, education is probably the best policy option. Every child must go to school and no child should be allowed to be an artisan until after secondary school education. Once upon a time in this country, the social welfare department used to arrest any child found on the streets during school hours. The disparity in the education of men and women in Nigeria is alarming, given the fact that women constitute about 50% of the national population. The school drop-out rate for the girl-child is as high as 44%! There are extant laws, which prescribe punishment for parents who keep their children out of school; such laws must be enforced. State governments should vigorously promote education at all levels.<br> Education is the strongest weapon for liberating people from the clutches of harmful religious and traditional practices. Education in this regard means being enlightened enough to know what parts of religion and tradition are humane and progressive. Even where these prove resilient on the basis of social legitimacy, the truth is that it will be difficult to maltreat a woman who is fully aware of her rights. The Senators opposing gender equality and rights would never allow their own daughters to be exposed to any form of indignity. They quote culture and religion out of sheer hypocrisy. Their reliance on the Holy Books to justify the inferiorization of women as the weaker sex is dubious.<br> Successful women should be prepared to support other women. More women should take interest in politics, and seek political power at all levels. Nigerian women must get into the arena and seek decision-making positions, to enable them influence and implement policies. Let Nigerian women form their own political parties and contest the public space with the misogynists. The women’s movement in Nigeria has lost its steam. Some Nigerian women are involved in partisan politics but they either end up behaving like the men, or they claim they are technocrats with no interest in feminist matters. They reinforce stereotypes and even work against the interest of other women seeking progress. Such women cannot lead the struggle; new recruits and role models are needed. To give meaning and bite to Senator Olujimi’s kind of intervention, progressive Nigerian women must unite and re-organize.<br> About the Author:<br> Reuben Abati is a columnist in The Guardian and former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to former President Goodluck Jonathan.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSJhCmEHMqDCYkTuHM4c5GtZ5EbnUXxp2Dr-Xbf27lHmlIgqDGzoMKdNwpTwi5rLfT0dd0fEkxS3MXv3SHHWRn7A5CfNzNBQpiDEbeqwdIy9uek6dQ5hhmmzEnB8ramHJgJUySII_nAhH/s1600/ReubenAbati1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSJhCmEHMqDCYkTuHM4c5GtZ5EbnUXxp2Dr-Xbf27lHmlIgqDGzoMKdNwpTwi5rLfT0dd0fEkxS3MXv3SHHWRn7A5CfNzNBQpiDEbeqwdIy9uek6dQ5hhmmzEnB8ramHJgJUySII_nAhH/s640/ReubenAbati1.jpg"> </a> </div>

The Misogynists in the Nigerian Senate

What Senator Biodun Olujimi (PDP, Ekiti South) did with her presentation of a bill on gender and equal opportunities on March 15, is the equ...

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Emir of Kano Advocates Policy For Patronage of Locally Made Products

<p dir="ltr">The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammad Sanusi, has identified the over-dependence on imported foreign made products as being responsible for the collapse of Nigeria’s industrial sector.<br> He said this to reporters after commissioning the remodelled secretariat of the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry Mines and Agriculture (KADCCIMA).</p> <p dir="ltr">The Emir said that the over dependence on importation of foreign goods that can be manufactured locally, as well as poor economic policies are some of the contributory factors responsible for the country’s socio-economic challenges.</p> <p dir="ltr">He explained that the insurgency in Northeast and other related crimes in the country were caused by the death of the Nigerian economy.</p> <p dir="ltr">Alhaji Sanusi therefore called on the federal government to come up with policies that will compel its agencies, institutions and citizens to give maximum priority to patronising locally made products.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Emir of Kano also expressed worry that Nigeria, as an oil producing nation, still imports refined petroleum products for its consumption, and also cannot generate enough electricity that will serve the entire citizens.</p> <p dir="ltr">He argued that the way out of the nation’s economic woes is to support government not to patronise products smuggled into the country, saying such goods were responsible for the collapse of the nation’s manufacturing sector.</p> <p dir="ltr">On his part, the President of KADCCIMA, Abdul Alimi, stressed the need for government to support the local manufacturing sector in order to enhance the nation’s economic growth.</p> <p dir="ltr">Source : Channelstv </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExLs1oAjlEdTeVbq07YoF08gnp0EJg1OEu_JOol4OdMHdY6-U25iUcpNj9m2G0CcgtIAMpf7-9kGjOxMd627UNeS7frKG21qYi99RbsZ72F6QqiEpF62kVrxMz6Hhtk3utqE2zFtSnx3t/s1600/emir-300x162.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExLs1oAjlEdTeVbq07YoF08gnp0EJg1OEu_JOol4OdMHdY6-U25iUcpNj9m2G0CcgtIAMpf7-9kGjOxMd627UNeS7frKG21qYi99RbsZ72F6QqiEpF62kVrxMz6Hhtk3utqE2zFtSnx3t/s640/emir-300x162.png"> </a> </div>

Emir of Kano Advocates Policy For Patronage of Locally Made Products

The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammad Sanusi, has identified the over-dependence on imported foreign made products as being responsible for the ...

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Barack Obama Makes Historic Visit To Cuba

<p dir="ltr">President Barack Obama has arrived for a three-day historic visit to Cuba and to hold talks with its communist leader.<br> This is the first time in several decades, a US President is visiting the island nation of Cuba.</p> <p dir="ltr">He arrived in Cuba with his wife, Michelle Obama, his two daughters and his mother-in-law.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Obama is the first sitting President of the United States to visit since the 1959 revolution, which heralded decades of hostility.</p> <p dir="ltr">Speaking at the reopened US embassy in Havana, he called the visit “historic” as he also spent time in the old city.</p> <p dir="ltr">During the historic visit, President Obama would meet Cuban President, Raul Castro, but not retired revolutionary leader, Fidel Castro, and the pair would discuss trade and political reform.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjZRAJgLirnEd392fmR-VRvfHim76hyphenhyphenV9RIcbalcU-s5QIdnJAOMx-w1cZWStdA9GVtRt4VjukGeOpspfe0R721QKHFReDpoOokwsLqlbLxKEqwy_gxvwMK1EyZcyF19IsZwEPUledQn0K/s1600/obama-300x161.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjZRAJgLirnEd392fmR-VRvfHim76hyphenhyphenV9RIcbalcU-s5QIdnJAOMx-w1cZWStdA9GVtRt4VjukGeOpspfe0R721QKHFReDpoOokwsLqlbLxKEqwy_gxvwMK1EyZcyF19IsZwEPUledQn0K/s640/obama-300x161.png"> </a> </div>

Barack Obama Makes Historic Visit To Cuba

President Barack Obama has arrived for a three-day historic visit to Cuba and to hold talks with its communist leader. This is the first t...

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Rivers Rerun: Missing INEC Electoral Officer Found

<p dir="ltr">INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner in Rivers State, Mr Aniedi Ikoiwak, has confirmed that the electoral officer for Ikwerre who was earlier declared missing during the Rivers rerun election has been found alive.<br> Mr Osifo Osaze is reported to have been attacked by gunmen who opened fire on his vehicle but he managed to escape his assailants into the bush.</p> <p dir="ltr">The REC told Channels Television that Mr Osaze was found with bullet wounds and has been taken to hospital for treatment.</p> <p dir="ltr">In another incident, a Youth Corps ad hoc INEC official was killed during violence at a polling unit in Ahoada West Local Government area on Saturday.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Ikoiwak said that further announcements on the polls will be made in due course.</p> <p dir="ltr">INEC had suspended further activities in the Rivers State rerun elections following the violent incidents trailing the conduct of the polls.</p> <p dir="ltr">In a statement late on Sunday, INEC’s Director in charge of Voter Education and Publicity, Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, regretted that “some of these elections witnessed the disruption of the process, including the barricading of  some of the INEC Local Government offices and Registration Area Centres (RACs) used for the distribution of Electoral materials which led to the late commencement of the exercise in some places and consequently, its smooth take off”.</p> <p dir="ltr">He said that “the suspension does not affect constituencies where the exercise has been completed and the results declared by the returning officers”.</p> <p dir="ltr">INEC had earlier suspended election in eight local government areas of the state.</p> <p dir="ltr">Addressing reporters earlier on Sunday the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr Aniedi Ikoiwak, said that the cancelation was due to irregularities at the affected local government areas.</p> <p dir="ltr">Source : Channelstv </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR4V4TSeG5f4_5KpFhcvHoj8YPWEmtUfAmLtdlP9faZSP9_rr_pZgQEaaySykkn3dxg5C8mrxPPXZvv7UwDnhKcj-mC7eD7RuYD4fjnws5crM0lxTS3iOzfTAYvim0Qn0uTkHokuDEJ3_Z/s1600/INEC-2-300x161.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR4V4TSeG5f4_5KpFhcvHoj8YPWEmtUfAmLtdlP9faZSP9_rr_pZgQEaaySykkn3dxg5C8mrxPPXZvv7UwDnhKcj-mC7eD7RuYD4fjnws5crM0lxTS3iOzfTAYvim0Qn0uTkHokuDEJ3_Z/s640/INEC-2-300x161.png"> </a> </div>

Rivers Rerun: Missing INEC Electoral Officer Found

INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner in Rivers State, Mr Aniedi Ikoiwak, has confirmed that the electoral officer for Ikwerre who was earl...

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Air Force Acquires More Aircraft, Promises Better Welfare

<p dir="ltr">The Nigerian Air Force says it has recorded 100% increase of serviceable aircraft to address the current national security threat in Nigeria.<br> Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, said this during the commissioning ceremony of staff accommodation in Kano’s Air Force base.</p> <p dir="ltr">He said that Government is determined to reposition the Nigerian Air Force into a highly professional service through capacity building.</p> <p dir="ltr">Accompanied by top ranking officers, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar said that the Nigerian Air Force must continue to remain vibrant towards the nation’s air defence.<br> He added that in order to achieve that, officers and men of the service also need to have a robust welfare package that will make them comfortable in confronting any kind of security threat.</p> <p dir="ltr">Officers and men of the service had lacked adequate accommodation for mostly their family, a problem Sadique said is capable of dividing their attention in executing their duties.</p> <p dir="ltr">To him, accommodation, healthcare facilities, capacity building among others should come first in any security institution across the country.</p> <p dir="ltr">Meanwhile, the Air Chief has said that accommodation package for the personnel would continue across all Air Force bases across the country.</p> <p dir="ltr">He added that with better welfare and equipment, there would be no hiding place for criminals.</p> <p dir="ltr">Source : Channelstv </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihKllHG0KdiRg49fqFqMjPzTxdbW-7nDc59vbmRAkvljJ2rkF_3ZAwpWxyYR3wPUXc5RbesVTYyXlzxGqchaQYyi9tDyBaIRnXmcQQeHEzDlNOq1SoAEjyya9GzAvlC6gj7HNS8vXvYX5e/s1600/Air-Force-Sadiq-Abubakar-300x161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihKllHG0KdiRg49fqFqMjPzTxdbW-7nDc59vbmRAkvljJ2rkF_3ZAwpWxyYR3wPUXc5RbesVTYyXlzxGqchaQYyi9tDyBaIRnXmcQQeHEzDlNOq1SoAEjyya9GzAvlC6gj7HNS8vXvYX5e/s640/Air-Force-Sadiq-Abubakar-300x161.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0PDnp2lS-lsgllSm42YHfvDYiXIRfjQCTomZmoefa_cIMgD9e8PNoMq2nM4kTZpxrxL4Q0QHZuaU89VuipZPbz4yWfwC8R8NtJf8aKPO2291GM8stDMeyzgH2BWmepblUcA1hyphenhyphenfjH8HzH/s1600/image.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0PDnp2lS-lsgllSm42YHfvDYiXIRfjQCTomZmoefa_cIMgD9e8PNoMq2nM4kTZpxrxL4Q0QHZuaU89VuipZPbz4yWfwC8R8NtJf8aKPO2291GM8stDMeyzgH2BWmepblUcA1hyphenhyphenfjH8HzH/s640/image.png"> </a> </div>

Air Force Acquires More Aircraft, Promises Better Welfare

The Nigerian Air Force says it has recorded 100% increase of serviceable aircraft to address the current national security threat in Nigeria...

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Western Governments Knew Where 80 Abducted Chibok Girls Were, British Envoy says

<p dir="ltr"><u>R</u>eport by the U.K Sunday Times is alleging that the US and British governments knew where at least 80 of the Nigerian girls kidnapped by the Boko Haram sect where but failed to launch a rescue mission.<br>   <br> The former British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Andrew Pocock, told the Sunday Times that a large group of the missing girls were spotted by British and American surveillance officials shortly after their disappearance on April 14, 2014, but experts felt nothing could be done.</p> <p dir="ltr">‘Too High Risk’</p> <p dir="ltr">Dr Pocock was quoted by the Sunday Times as saying that Western governments felt ‘powerless’ to help, as any rescue attempt would have been too high risk – with the Boko Haram terrorists using the girls as human shield.</p> <p dir="ltr">He said: “A couple of months after the kidnapping, fly-bys and an American eye in the sky spotted a group of up to 80 girls in a particular spot in the Sambisa forest, around a very large tree, called locally the Tree of Life, along with evidence of vehicular movement and a large encampment”.</p> <p dir="ltr">He told Sunday Times that the girls were there for at least four weeks but authorities were ‘powerless’ to intervene – and the Nigerian government did not ask for help anyway.</p> <p dir="ltr">“A land-based attack would have been seen coming miles away and the girls killed, an air-based rescue, such as flying in helicopters or Hercules, would have required large numbers and meant a significant risk to the rescuers and even more so to the girls.’</p> <p dir="ltr">“You might have rescued a few but many would have been killed. My personal fear was always about the girls not in that encampment – 80 were there, but 250 were taken, so the bulk were not there. What would have happened to them? You were damned if you do and damned if you don’t,” he added.</p> <p dir="ltr">He further told the Sunday Sunday Times Magazine that the information was passed to the Nigerian government but it made no request for help.</p> <p dir="ltr">Terrorists stormed a secondary boarding school in the remote town of Chibok in Borno state, northern Nigeria in April 14, 2014, and seized over 200 girls who were preparing for their final-year exams.</p> <p dir="ltr">Although 57 of the girls managed to escape the rest have remained missing and have not been heard from or seen since.</p> <p dir="ltr">The abduction triggered solidarity protests in different countries with protesters carrying placards mostly written, “Bring Back Our Girls”.</p> <p dir="ltr">In different intervals, top military officials said they were aware of the girls’ location, but could not launch an attack on the terrorists, fearing it could lead to civilian casualties.</p> <p dir="ltr">Source : Channelstv </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT-DKikBcJI9RyBl_225TbwD6tcHvMigzJKVzzzOVgzfYX-MwF3J9CkvDQGfsBn_E2qYv0fFcU3XOyHuFm_ziNsfhlOzxMYvqWkTElmGZ4jzdZr68alJC94SR0Am2ryH3lu5gYyQ4y5KiI/s1600/chibok_girls-300x162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT-DKikBcJI9RyBl_225TbwD6tcHvMigzJKVzzzOVgzfYX-MwF3J9CkvDQGfsBn_E2qYv0fFcU3XOyHuFm_ziNsfhlOzxMYvqWkTElmGZ4jzdZr68alJC94SR0Am2ryH3lu5gYyQ4y5KiI/s640/chibok_girls-300x162.jpg"> </a> </div>

Western Governments Knew Where 80 Abducted Chibok Girls Were, British Envoy says

R eport by the U.K Sunday Times is alleging that the US and British governments knew where at least 80 of the Nigerian girls kidnapped by th...

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Rivers Re-run Election: INEC Suspends Action Pending Receipt Of Reports

<p dir="ltr">The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended all action concerning the Rivers re-run polls in all other constituencies pending the receipt of a comprehensive report from its field officials and monitors.<br>   In a statement late On Sunday, INEC said “the suspension does not affect constituencies where the exercise has been completed and the results declared by the returning officers”.</p> <p dir="ltr">The statement by INEC’s Director in charge of Voter Education and Publicity, Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, read: “Rather unfortunately, some of these elections witnessed the disruption of the process, including the barricading of  some of the INEC Local Government offices and Registration Area Centres (RACs) used for the distribution of Electoral materials which led to the late commencement of the exercise in some places and consequently, its smooth take off.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Of more serious concern was the level of threats, violence and intimidation of election officials and voters by well-armed thugs and miscreants allegedly acting on behalf of some politicians, which marred the elections in some areas.</p> <p dir="ltr">“There were reports of numerous attacks resulting in fatalities, kidnappings, ballot snatching, diversion of officials and materials, amongst others, which necessitated its suspension in eight Local Government Areas.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Regrettably, such deviant behaviour has continued today. Several permanent and ad hoc staff engaged have been attacked, again resulting in fatalities, while some have been forcibly abducted and taken to presently unknown destinations”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Osaze-Uzzi, stressed that under such difficult circumstance, the Returning Officers were only able to collate and declare results in one Federal and nine State constituencies where the disruption and malpractices were not so widespread.</p> <p dir="ltr">He said: “Having reviewed the situation, the Commission is compelled to suspend all further action concerning the exercise in all the other constituencies in the State pending the receipt of a comprehensive report from its Field Officials and Monitors.</p> <p dir="ltr">“For the avoidance of doubt, it should be noted that the suspension does not affect the constituencies where the exercise has been completed and the results declared by the Returning Officers”.</p> <p dir="ltr">INEC had earlier suspended election in eight local government areas of the state.</p> <p dir="ltr">Addressing reporters earlier on Sunday the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr Aniedi Ikoiwak, said that the cancelation was due to irregularities at the affected local government areas.</p> <p dir="ltr">Election held in Etche and Asari-Toru Local Government Areas were the latest to be cancelled.</p> <p dir="ltr">In a press statement, the INEC said: “Further to our earlier pronouncement on the suspension of the re-run in the six Local Government Areas of Khana, Bonny, Gokana, Andoni, Tai and Eleme, following disturbances and violence that impeded the electoral process in those parts of the state, it has become necessary to suspend elections in Etche and Asari-Toru LGAs for the same reasons.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Please note that the suspension of the re-run elections by INEC is necessitated by the need to forestall breakdown of law and order in the event of further aggravation of crisis.</p> <p dir="ltr">“INEC needs to put all stakeholders on notice that we are still studying the situation in the other fifteen LGAs, where collations are currently going on”</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjioB6nVyJ3oG6ruxtZ0_W1PcGFSZN7payZNIo76FXOLRnnjid2Jrua5_vCHo8QWO1uq40qOvPxKLSx70LnURCWHSay70Hoh5R80Lcy52JSskIrTEpNRFLsbJ-c1g4BTK6O-Aqog8zKl6eD/s1600/INEC-2-300x161.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjioB6nVyJ3oG6ruxtZ0_W1PcGFSZN7payZNIo76FXOLRnnjid2Jrua5_vCHo8QWO1uq40qOvPxKLSx70LnURCWHSay70Hoh5R80Lcy52JSskIrTEpNRFLsbJ-c1g4BTK6O-Aqog8zKl6eD/s640/INEC-2-300x161.png"> </a> </div>

Rivers Re-run Election: INEC Suspends Action Pending Receipt Of Reports

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended all action concerning the Rivers re-run polls in all other constituencies...

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Obiano Launches Book On Achievements

<p dir="ltr">Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano, has launched a book which captures his administration’s policies and programme since he assumed office.<br>   Governor Obiano unveiled the book on Sunday at the Professor Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre in Anambra State in southeast Nigeria, as part of activities marking his two years in office.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 588-page book captures the developmental strides of the governor in critical sectors of the state.</p> <p dir="ltr">Governor Obiano, who dedicated the successes recorded in the book to the people of the state, appealed for more support to enable him do more for the benefit of all.</p> <p dir="ltr">Earlier the governor announced to the people of Anambra State that a very good foundation had been laid for sustainable development in the state since the inception of his administration.</p> <p dir="ltr">He pointed out that the development strategy of the state in keeping afloat despite the present economic crunch in the country was his ability to define his vision and mission for the state.</p> <p dir="ltr">Governor Obiano said that the vision and mission were hinged on four pillars of his administrative blueprint – agriculture, industrialisation, trade and commerce, and oil and gas.<br></p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEFJEbvUOCvPcOW-XNEP4LQ03K86pCuw3wKmq_VnFn6NVUM5p0I40ulkais4zQFRA58HeRJAFfYBWtO7hlwGoMd9vr-3GFFw6JbWfKfJMxtSuY6ifFJeaoilo9JDklZ8urdQ9spxM3xu5o/s1600/obiano-300x161.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEFJEbvUOCvPcOW-XNEP4LQ03K86pCuw3wKmq_VnFn6NVUM5p0I40ulkais4zQFRA58HeRJAFfYBWtO7hlwGoMd9vr-3GFFw6JbWfKfJMxtSuY6ifFJeaoilo9JDklZ8urdQ9spxM3xu5o/s640/obiano-300x161.png"> </a> </div>

Obiano Launches Book On Achievements

Anambra State Governor, Willie Obiano, has launched a book which captures his administration’s policies and programme since he assumed offic...

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Troops Kill Suspected Boko Haram Suicide Bomber

<p dir="ltr">Troops of 25 Task Force Brigade ambushed and killed a Boko Haram terrorist suicide bomber at Kumala and Musafanari villages’ general area.  According to the army, the operation which took place on Saturday led to the saving of lives and property of some residents of the area.</p> <p dir="ltr">A military spokesman, Colonel Sani Usman, said the troops, after receiving a tipoff, laid an ambush for the terrorist at suspected Boko Haram terrorists’ crossing point, engaged the terrorist who was obviously on suicide mission, from Sambisa general area.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The suicide bomber paid the price of his wicked activities as he was dealt with decisively.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The troops recovered a motorcycle, 12 primed Improvised Explosive Devices and a hand bag containing personal effects which included a hijab obviously meant for disguise and concealment of explosives for the intended nefarious act,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">The army spokesman further reassured Nigerians that the morale of the troops had remained high, as they continue to mop up all surviving terrorists.</p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfX4s9ZEHOw2V3ZPWWfC6vvIcQquLtbrZIr-TDSHbApf65gacP5uzWFMJYuMQdjD0TQ-syGpZv2QU47JbRCn8XKFahLZGYBKm1nzRlUZgTi0Wtq65GbwfvXIvReaDp584OmvIrQMcKSmgk/s1600/Suicide-bomber-300x161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfX4s9ZEHOw2V3ZPWWfC6vvIcQquLtbrZIr-TDSHbApf65gacP5uzWFMJYuMQdjD0TQ-syGpZv2QU47JbRCn8XKFahLZGYBKm1nzRlUZgTi0Wtq65GbwfvXIvReaDp584OmvIrQMcKSmgk/s640/Suicide-bomber-300x161.jpg"> </a> </div>

Troops Kill Suspected Boko Haram Suicide Bomber

Troops of 25 Task Force Brigade ambushed and killed a Boko Haram terrorist suicide bomber at Kumala and Musafanari villages’ general area.  ...

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Governor Wike’s Chief Of Staff Held Over Assassination Attempt On NIMASA DG Dakuku

<p dir="ltr">The Department of State Security in Rivers state has thwarted an assassination attempt on Peterside Dakuku, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in last year’s guber election in the state and reportedly arrested ChukwuEmeka Woke, the Chief of Staff to Governor Nyesom Wike for leading a killer squad in two Sport Utility Vehicles that trailed and opened fire on Mr. Dakuku. <br>   According to a press release issued by Mr. Dakuku’s office, the gunmen trailed him from Aba Road as he drove towards his house in the GRA area of Port Harcourt, but as his car made to turn towards the GRA entrance to his home, the gunmen drove aggressively hoping to overtake his car. <br> Mr. Dakuku then changed course and drove to the state headquarters of the DSS as his security aide had already radioed for help.</p> <p dir="ltr">Soon as Dakuku was allowed into the premises of the DSS, officers at the gate reportedly opened fire on the two SUVs trailing him and succeeded in demobilizing the care and got some of the occupants including Mr. Woke arrested.</p> <p dir="ltr"> One of Mr. Dakuku’s security aides was seriously injured as a result of exchange gunfire during the thirty-minute long <u>encounter</u>. </p> <p dir="ltr">Scene of attack on Peterside Dakuku, source : saharareporters.com </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXpaB1NCvBHWxCvfo9H8l9AmXPcgxr_nWhNDrPcRUFFU-HHRnS1SNpxI3I40NNIHoUX5-_vbKcF1zYvrSx9g8xDOa9mwznbGZaAXJyw5Ooza7zvWNEwjFZk1cS_qMpx4oas9deBl37x6F/s1600/IMG_20160320_200232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXpaB1NCvBHWxCvfo9H8l9AmXPcgxr_nWhNDrPcRUFFU-HHRnS1SNpxI3I40NNIHoUX5-_vbKcF1zYvrSx9g8xDOa9mwznbGZaAXJyw5Ooza7zvWNEwjFZk1cS_qMpx4oas9deBl37x6F/s640/IMG_20160320_200232.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdHO3XdTfuaPKUvvSNBXnHIir1bGf5TfMjy8lSEClpntT8vLXYX2iGiWXJW9sn5s91NqHe1FrjW9AuQe5aZ_qu8iE4W1YX_I0kR7NE3gXD5l20sOE1JBnN3RnYAOx_fRBXZNvXiHUryzcC/s1600/IMG_20160320_200133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdHO3XdTfuaPKUvvSNBXnHIir1bGf5TfMjy8lSEClpntT8vLXYX2iGiWXJW9sn5s91NqHe1FrjW9AuQe5aZ_qu8iE4W1YX_I0kR7NE3gXD5l20sOE1JBnN3RnYAOx_fRBXZNvXiHUryzcC/s640/IMG_20160320_200133.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJw6u75KnCFpdMjQ6vCwX8kezk93AttlkXgvKJWfd09EflnUAX1KdXv83r6TmYgTE8uSVmgpxoAu9bmILg2sRlxkFS8MEn_dxPLBX8O_MvDnY0dTOkDppNP1LXeIiZaRF1W-FqFs2KPU3/s1600/IMG_20160320_200227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJw6u75KnCFpdMjQ6vCwX8kezk93AttlkXgvKJWfd09EflnUAX1KdXv83r6TmYgTE8uSVmgpxoAu9bmILg2sRlxkFS8MEn_dxPLBX8O_MvDnY0dTOkDppNP1LXeIiZaRF1W-FqFs2KPU3/s640/IMG_20160320_200227.jpg"> </a> </div>

Governor Wike’s Chief Of Staff Held Over Assassination Attempt On NIMASA DG Dakuku

The Department of State Security in Rivers state has thwarted an assassination attempt on Peterside Dakuku, the All Progressives Congress (A...

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Photographer Sues 2face For Alleged Breach Of Agreement

<p dir="ltr"><u>P</u>hotographer, Mr Emmanuel Okolo, has filed a 120 million Naira copyright infringement suit against Nigeria’s popular musician, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2face (2baba), and his wife, Annie.<br>   The photographer sued the couple and one Mr Anthonio Anifite before Justice Mohammed Idris of a Federal High Court in Lagos.</p> <p dir="ltr">He alleged that the defendants made use of some photographs he took at the traditional wedding of Mr and Mrs Idibia in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State in 2013 without duly attributing the works to him or acknowledging him.</p> <p dir="ltr">He claimed that the act was contrary to an alleged agreement.</p> <p dir="ltr">The photographer, who sued alongside his company, Papilonmexy Films Studios Limited, claimed that the defendants wrote “2faceonline.com” across 148 out of the 355 high resolution photographs he took at the couple’s wedding and uploaded them on 2face’s official website, thereby denying him credit and referral opportunities.</p> <p dir="ltr">He claimed Annie had called him on phone days after the wedding, requesting for copies of his photographs and that upon sending them to her, Annie complained about the watermark of Papilomenxy studios reflecting on them.</p> <p dir="ltr">According to the photographer, Annie later sent the second defendant to negotiate with the photographer on the terms that the photographs could be released without watermarks.</p> <p dir="ltr">The photographer claimed to have then released 355 high resolution photographs from the wedding to Anifite free of charge on the agreement that whenever and wherever they were used, the copyright would be credited to his company.</p> <p dir="ltr">He, however, claimed that the defendants breached the terms of the signed agreement and went ahead to write “2faceonline.com” across 148 of the photographs that they uploaded on 2face’s official website.</p> <p dir="ltr">The photographer, who described himself as “a certified film maker from the prestigious London Film Academy” and a holder of a Masters of Arts degree from Cardiff School of Creative and Cultural Industries, South Wales, United Kingdom, claimed to have suffered general and exemplary damages for which he is seeking 120 million Naira compensation from 2face, Annie and Anifite.</p> <p dir="ltr">‘Premeditated Plan To Blackmail’</p> <p dir="ltr">But the defendants have not only urged Justice Idris to dismiss the photographer’s suit but also filed a counter-claim wherein they are demanding 150 million damages from him and his studio.</p> <p dir="ltr">They claimed that the photographer crashed into the venue of their traditional wedding, took pictures and circulated same for commercial gains without their permission.</p> <p dir="ltr">They claimed that he was not invited but was just “one of the numerous photographers and pseudo-professionals and artisans who invaded the venue of the ceremonies to eke out a living for themselves without prior consultation with or the consent of the celebrants”.</p> <p dir="ltr">They claimed that soon after their wedding they noticed some strange versions of their wedding pictures circulating online with Papilonmexy studio watermark and after painstaking findings they traced them to the photographer.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Idibias claimed that upon locating the photographer and expressing their displeasure, he pleaded them with them, while lamenting that he was hard hit by a downturn in the still photography business and sought any future engagement with them.</p> <p dir="ltr">They also claimed that the photographer forced the photographs on them, saying he wanted to leverage on their popularity to get referrals.</p> <p dir="ltr">They, however, claimed that they told him categorically that the only condition on which they could accept the photographs was for him to remove the watermarks of his company, which he allegedly agreed to.</p> <p dir="ltr">They, however, said they were shocked when after uploading the photographs, the photographer wrote a pre-litigation letter to them demanding that his watermarks be boldly inscribed across the photographs and a letter of apology.</p> <p dir="ltr">But they claimed to have immediately pulled down the photographs because having Papilonmexy watermarks on some pictures on 2face’s official website would distort the original idea of the website.</p> <p dir="ltr">They accused the photographer of having a premeditated plan to blackmail and extort money from them.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The second plaintiff (Okolo), through his several guile, deceit, cunning gate-crashing and opportunistic posturing carefully planned and orchestrated the entire events leading to the institution of this suit with the express intention of embarrassing, harassing and blackmailing the first and third defendants (Annie and 2face) with a view to extorting money from them,” the further claimed in their counter-claim.</p> <p dir="ltr">They, however, urged the judge to order Okolo and his studio to pull down all the photographs of them that the photographer had circulated.</p> <p dir="ltr">They are also praying the court to order Okolo and his studio to “render forthwith, account as well as make full and frank disclosure of all sums and profit made by them as a result of unauthorised commercial usage” of their photographs.</p> <p dir="ltr">They are demanding 150 million Naira damages and an order of perpetual injunction restraining Okolo and his studio from further commercialising their photographs.</p> <p dir="ltr">Source : Channelstv </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji17taLJHrlt2eRL9ephnG_218HIQpH1qMv31xdArn7fOASbmJ57Brd42dKRL5HmptKErWLs_Sc6QjfskmvaavSqM3WbhrkvYIySmKODZ4pqN5KdwcLNnYraFSaOJeMYr-sZQLa8hsVLVt/s1600/IMG_20160320_195038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji17taLJHrlt2eRL9ephnG_218HIQpH1qMv31xdArn7fOASbmJ57Brd42dKRL5HmptKErWLs_Sc6QjfskmvaavSqM3WbhrkvYIySmKODZ4pqN5KdwcLNnYraFSaOJeMYr-sZQLa8hsVLVt/s640/IMG_20160320_195038.jpg"> </a> </div>

Photographer Sues 2face For Alleged Breach Of Agreement

P hotographer, Mr Emmanuel Okolo, has filed a 120 million Naira copyright infringement suit against Nigeria’s popular musician, Innocent Idi...

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National Economic Council’s Retreat Holds On Monday

<p dir="ltr">The National Economic Council (NEC) retreat is expected to hold on Monday in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city.<br>   <br> President Muhammadu Buhari will be addressing the members during the opening ceremony of the retreat.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajor, who is chairman of the forum, is expected to preside over the event that will commence by 9:00am local time at the Old Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa.</p> <p dir="ltr">Thirty-six state governors will be attending.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Central Bank Governor and the Budget and Planning Minister are among those expected at the forum.</p> <p dir="ltr">A spokesman for the Vice President, Laolu Akande, said that the objective of the National Economic Council Retreat was to provide a forum for in-depth discussions by NEC members of the policy actions that the States and the Federal Government could consider in order to stimulate local production, cut costs and enhance public revenues among other measures to stimulate the economy.</p> <p dir="ltr">Contrary to suggestions, the Retreat is not an emergency national economic conference.</p> <p dir="ltr">The idea was mooted at the last regular NEC meeting in January, where members requested an intensive session to review economic trends and evolve strategies to cope.</p> <p dir="ltr">Source :Channelstv </p> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihJOH39WXjFT1yqNw6gQMKcMyuyMvPJA4NLSD6qf3PrGPcKNVjLgtamYoFPPpHzdAhUDLZebRoUpEyjj5vv4Pa8RjIJZR02U-2hccd4_uCgZYzGlH6lXb25cmOf9tWyUp0riqH7B8J6M0f/s1600/IMG_20160315_102840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihJOH39WXjFT1yqNw6gQMKcMyuyMvPJA4NLSD6qf3PrGPcKNVjLgtamYoFPPpHzdAhUDLZebRoUpEyjj5vv4Pa8RjIJZR02U-2hccd4_uCgZYzGlH6lXb25cmOf9tWyUp0riqH7B8J6M0f/s640/IMG_20160315_102840.jpg"> </a> </div>

National Economic Council’s Retreat Holds On Monday

The National Economic Council (NEC) retreat is expected to hold on Monday in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city.   President Muhammadu Buhari w...

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