Tuesday 31 May 2016
Nigeria Structure "not working"- Former VP Atiku Abubakar
Former vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is currently canvassing for true federalism saying that the current Nigeria structure is not working.H disclosed this in an interview with Premium Times.His words,
"If anything, it has made our unity more fragile our government more unstable and our country more unsafe. We must renegotiate our union in other to make it strong."
"If anything, it has made our unity more fragile our government more unstable and our country more unsafe. We must renegotiate our union in other to make it strong."
It costs 0.00usd to mind your own business Huddan Monroe captions instagram photo
LOL Kenya Socialite who is currently in Lagos Nigeria, cautions all her followers and fans to mind their business and never bother or complain about what she does.She shared a photo on her instagram and captioned it "It costs 0.00usd to mind your own business"
Another photo below,
Another photo below,
Marcus Rashford included in England’s Euro 2016 squad
Englash Coach,Roy Hodgson has included 18-year-old Marcus Rashford in the Englash sqaud.He gave the young lad an opportunity to make a mark at the summer’s European Championship after including the strikers among a quintet of forwards in his final 23-man squad for Euro 2016.
Faces of "South East Group for Change" that visited President Buhari at the Villa today
A big questions: Are these faces really representing the mandate of the South East or they are there for their personal pocket interest???
They were lead by former Senate President,Ken Nnamani,I can see former Senator Ifeanyi Ararume and Co.
Photo Credit: Bayo Omoboriowo
They were lead by former Senate President,Ken Nnamani,I can see former Senator Ifeanyi Ararume and Co.
Photo Credit: Bayo Omoboriowo
Queen Elizabeth Covers Vanity magazine summer edition
The Queen graces the cover of vanity magazine summer edition.
The Senate, passes Bill to establish the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment
The Senate today passed the bill for the establishment of the National Institute for Cancer Research and treatment in the country.This was disclosed through the instagram page of the Senate President Bukola Saraki.Read what he wrote,
"Since 2013, Nigeria has recorded more than 2 million cases of Cancer, with up to 500,000 cases of the disease being registered each year.
As someone who has suffered the pain of losing a loved one to Cancer, it gives me great joy to announce that today at the Senate, we passed for its third and final reading, the Bill to establish the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment.
Once established, the Cancer Research Institute will provide a holistic national strategy for dealing with cancer treatments, and will serve to reorient the public on preventable measures."
"Since 2013, Nigeria has recorded more than 2 million cases of Cancer, with up to 500,000 cases of the disease being registered each year.
As someone who has suffered the pain of losing a loved one to Cancer, it gives me great joy to announce that today at the Senate, we passed for its third and final reading, the Bill to establish the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment.
Once established, the Cancer Research Institute will provide a holistic national strategy for dealing with cancer treatments, and will serve to reorient the public on preventable measures."
Monday 30 May 2016
Information on looted fund will be publish on or before Thursday - Garba Shehu
It has been confirmed from the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu,that all information on the recovered looted funds will be published on or before Thursday the 2nd of June according to the instruction from the President to the ministry of information.He wrote this on his facebook page.
"On Stolen/Recovered Loots
The President is true to his words. He has done what he has promised. He has given directive that the information be put out by the Ministry of Information. Records will be obtained from the CBN and the investigation agencies regarding recovery and seizures, and actual status with regard to frozen sums in banks and assets held wherever they are. Going forward,he has asked them to update the information periodically. The minister should be ready with this when work resumes, possibly Wednesday or Thursday."
"On Stolen/Recovered Loots
The President is true to his words. He has done what he has promised. He has given directive that the information be put out by the Ministry of Information. Records will be obtained from the CBN and the investigation agencies regarding recovery and seizures, and actual status with regard to frozen sums in banks and assets held wherever they are. Going forward,he has asked them to update the information periodically. The minister should be ready with this when work resumes, possibly Wednesday or Thursday."
David Beckham congratulates Zidane on his championship victory
Football Legend David Beckham took to his instagram to congratulate his friend Zidane over his championship victory. Zidane won the champions league as a player and also as a coach.He is truly a legend.Read what he wrote,
"Congratulations my friend this couldn't have happened to a nicer and more passionate person... Hala Madrid 🏆 🇪🇸 @realmadrid"
"Congratulations my friend this couldn't have happened to a nicer and more passionate person... Hala Madrid 🏆 🇪🇸 @realmadrid"
Photos: Cristiano Ronaldo and son celebrate Real madrid trophy
His son is so happy over his fathers achievements in football although he is a Messi fan.LOL.Another photo below,
Manchester United signs two from academy
Manchester United FC confirms signing two of their academy players into the main team.The two players who graduated from academy are Marcus Rashford and Cameron Borthwick-Jackson.They signed a contract that will end by 2020.
Saturday 28 May 2016
Actress Uche Jombo celebrates son as he turns One
A year has gone in a blink.Matthew kenney-Chinedu Rodriguez I Can't believe today you are one. Feliz Cumpleanòs hijo🎂 Your smile is sunshine! Your laugh is contagious! Your energy is something else! (I wonder where you got that from😆)Your hugs melt my heart! Your kisses are the sweetest! You make me one emotional mama today...You are my greatest blessing and best gift from God.My love for you is irrevocable. You bring so much joy and purpose into our lives ,mommy and daddy love you. 🙏I pray you grow up strong, God-fearing, kind , loving and brave. You introduced me to a new love and I will love you till my days are gone. Like your name..Matthew(you are God's gift to us) kenney (homesome you) Chinedu (God will always lead you) Happy birthday my prince ...(since you are going to read this some day your igbo better be as good as your Spanish). . Chineke gozi gi nwa m nwoke! Aguru m gi na anya nwa m!
Dios te bendiga mi hijo!
#llovebeingyourmom #ithankJesusEverydayforyou #MatthewKenneyChineduRodriguez #matthew1stbirthday
#happybirthdayson #felizCumpleanòsmijo
In another post she captioned the photo "50%igbo 🎂💖😍happy 1st birthday son. Chief!!!"
Dios te bendiga mi hijo!
#llovebeingyourmom #ithankJesusEverydayforyou #MatthewKenneyChineduRodriguez #matthew1stbirthday
#happybirthdayson #felizCumpleanòsmijo
In another post she captioned the photo "50%igbo 🎂💖😍happy 1st birthday son. Chief!!!"
Tsquared2016: Tunde is set to say "I Do"
The Groom Tolu Oniru is getting set with her crewAnother photo below.
Photo: Topless Justin Bieber covers his eggplant in new instagram post post
Justin shared the photo on instagram and captioned it #mycalvins.
Banky W prepares Tunde for his wedding.
Banky W is the grooms man for Tunde and Toolz wedding taking place in Dubai UAE today the 28th of May 2016.The grooms man took to his instagram account to prepare the groom as they prepare for the D day.Another photo below,
Friday 27 May 2016
Dangote foundation donates to Lagos state micro-grant programme
The Dangote foundation has donated to Lagos women through the lagos state Micro-Grant Programme set up by the Government of Akinwunmi Ambode to alliviate the poverty of the rural women.While speaking at the Dangote foundation donation program the Governor said,
"Few hours ago, I appealed to the first set of beneficiaries of the Micro-Grant Programme not to abuse the opportunity afforded them. The seed grants have been provided to enable beneficiaries to engage in petty commercial activities and cottage business that would put food on the table family and not a largesse that should be spent frivolously.#DangoteMicroGrant #ItesiwajuEko"
The amount donated was not mentioned.
"Few hours ago, I appealed to the first set of beneficiaries of the Micro-Grant Programme not to abuse the opportunity afforded them. The seed grants have been provided to enable beneficiaries to engage in petty commercial activities and cottage business that would put food on the table family and not a largesse that should be spent frivolously.#DangoteMicroGrant #ItesiwajuEko"
The amount donated was not mentioned.
Photos: President Oboma hugs Shigeaki,a survivor of the 1945 atomic bombing of Hiroshima
President Obama is one of the first American President's to visit Hiroshima,the world first nuclear attack.He visited the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park where he met and hugged Shigeaki Mori.one of the survivor of the 1945 atomic bombing.
He also laid a wreaths in a ceremony at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial in Hiroshima, Japan. More pictures from the visit below.
Photo Credit:Pete Souza Chief Official White House Photographer
He also laid a wreaths in a ceremony at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial in Hiroshima, Japan. More pictures from the visit below.
Photo Credit:Pete Souza Chief Official White House Photographer
Sameul Eto arrives into Nigeria with his private Jet ahead of Joseph Yobo Testimonial Match
When your big your big.Samuel Etoo,who is chosen to partcipate in the testimonial match of Joseph Yobo arrived into Port Harcourt airport this morning with his private jet.He shared the photo and wrote,"Good Morning from Port-Harcourt (Nigeria)🇳🇬!😊 @jyobo234 #YoboTestimonial #Adrenaline ❤️"
Its official Jose Mourinho appointed as Manchester United Manager
Jose shared his contract agreement photo with Manchester United on instagram and captioned it "Manchester United Football Club,Old Trafford,The Theatre of Dreams"
Tomato scarcity as metaphor - Reuben Abati
Enjoy his article below..
One of the major news items in circulation has been the scarcity of tomato. Incidentally, Nigeria is (was) the 14th largest producer of tomato in the world and the second largest producer in Africa, after Egypt, but our country hardly produces enough to meet the local demand of about 2.3 million tonnes, and lacks the capacity to ensure an effective storage or value chain processing of what is produced.
Out of the 1.8 million tonnes that the country produces annually, 900, 000 tonnes are left to rot and waste. Meanwhile, tomato-processing companies in the country operate below capacity and many of them have had to shut down.
The CEO of Erisco Foods, Lagos, Eric Umeofia laments that tomato processing companies lack access to foreign exchange to enable them buy heat-resistant seedlings and other tools that would help ensure the country’s sufficiency in local production of tomato paste. Similarly, Dangote Tomato Factory recently suspended operations due to the scarcity of tomatoes and the assault on its tomato farms by a tomato leaves destroying moth, known as “tuta absoluta” - a South American native, also known as the Tomato Ebola, because of its Ebola-like characteristics.
Other reasons have been advanced for the scarcity of tomatoes in our markets: the fuel crisis which has driven up costs making it difficult and expensive for Northern tomato farmers to bring tomatoes to the South, insurgency in the North East which has resulted in the closure of many tomato farms in that region, thus cutting off national output, the recent ethnic crisis in Mile 2, during which Hausa Fulani traders and other marketers engaged in a murderous brawl, climate-change induced drought and heat wave in the Northern-tomato producing states of Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Plateau, Kano and Gombe. In the best of seasons, Nigeria spends $1.5 billion annually on the importation of tomato products. The cost in this regard, seems certain to rise.
Already, the effect of this tomato blight is being felt in households. Whereas a few months ago, a basket of tomato was about N5, 000, it is now about N40, 000 per basket. Housewives are protesting bitterly about how a piece of tomato vegetable has jumped up by about 650%, such that three pieces now go for as much as N500. Tomato in Nigeria today is thus more expensive than a litre of petrol! I have it on good authority, that in those face-me-I-face you quarters where the poor live, it has in fact become risky to leave a tin of tomato paste carelessly or fresh tomatoes lying around: they would most certainly be stolen, and there have been reports of soup pots suddenly vanishing should the owner take a minute from the communal kitchen to use the loo. Many are resorting to desperate measures to sort out a growing epidemic of empty stomachs and empty pockets. Unless this matter is addressed seriously and urgently, the social crisis may be far too costly in both the short and the long run: hungry people could become sick and angry, hungry citizens could become thieves and a nuisance, they could also become angry voters and a rebellious populace.
However, the most brilliant explanation that we have received so far from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is that there is tomato scarcity because of “tuta absoluta”. According to the Minister of Agriculture, Audu Ogbeh, a group of experts will be immediately commissioned to advise the government of Nigeria on the way forward. The mandate of these experts is to “appraise the situation”, and then give us “a figure on cost of treatment…so we will source funds to tackle it.” Is that what this is all about? I am not in the mood at this moment, to spoil anyone’s day, with straight-to-the-nose-the-mouth-and-the-groin punches but I think that the response from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture is far from adequate, if not stupid. Please, where is that bow-tie wearing Akinwumi Adesina, the former Minister of Agriculture, now on loan to the African Development Bank?
What we are dealing with is a national food security crisis. Before the commissioned outsiders begin to “appraise and cost”, the resident experts in the Ministry, should know that it is not only tomato that has become a scarce and expensive item in Nigerian kitchens, virtually every food item has become unaffordable and there are many homes that can no longer feed properly. The scarcity of tomato is only a metaphor for the spread of staggering inflation and the hunger that ravages the land. A bag of rice that was once N7, 000 is now N19, 000 per bag, a congo of garri has jumped from N170 to N300, bread from N200 per loaf to N300, and same is the case with virtually every food item. More than this, tomato scarcity is a metaphor for the lack of continuity in governance processes (What happened to all that revolution in the agriculture sector under Akinwumi Adesina as Minister?) and of course, for the failure since independence, to take agriculture seriously as a major vehicle of national security and development. If the response to this query is that nothing concrete actually took place under previous administrations, then what is the present Minister’s blueprint? What is his comprehensive agenda for ensuring food sufficiency?
It is indeed absurd that in 2016, we cannot produce enough tomatoes to feed ourselves – the short of it is that that single narrative about “tomato ebola” calls for more rigorous thinking. It is not enough to deal episodically with tomato scarcity, or the scarcity of any other food item; this must be done within the context of a plan of action. The job of government officials is to give the people hope and not to deepen their agony. A committee of experts looking into the scarcity of tomato, and how to throw money at the problem (!) is a round-about excuse for doing nothing. The knowledge that is required is within easy reach and much of the issues at stake, those within the province of the Ministry and those located in the larger context, are out there in the public domain, and perhaps, also in those accumulated files and old reports that most officials hardly ever read. The Ministry also spoke up rather too tardily.
For weeks, there have been all kinds of ethnic and political insinuations about how tomato became scarce, some of which, allowed to fester for too long, could have resulted in other crises. And we can only hope that the connection between food and health will not be lost on the experts. The health benefits of tomato alone are so many; to have a population no longer eating tomatoes, because of its cost could have long-term health implications. And while we expect the Federal Government to take the lead in terms of visioning, we should remember to ask: what are the state governments also doing? What are the states doing to promote agriculture and ensure food security? Apart from Kaduna state, other state governments have been criminally silent about the food crisis or they really don’t know since they probably get supplies of fresh tomatoes from neighboring countries for their own kitchens. All the big men eating imported fresh tomatoes when we, the people, can’t get tomatoes to eat, just “continuu eh” but don’t forget that a hungry and angry voter is an enemy of politicians.
There is another side to this whole tomato thing that is noteworthy. Special notice must be taken of the reference to the insurgency in the North East as a threat to agriculture. It is also interesting that most of the tomatoes produced in the country are from the North, and the Middle Belt. Check the list of major tomato producing states in Nigeria: Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Gombe, Plateau. Also check the list of the states where people are complaining most about the cost of tomato: they are all in the South! We should ask: so Southern Nigerians are grumbling about tomato being expensive and scarce, why are they so dependent on Northern farmers? They want tomatoes from the North, but are these not the same people who don’t want to see Northern cattle herdsmen in the South? Are these not the same people campaigning on social media that Southerners should stop buying beef in order to spoil market for Northern herdsmen? They are now begging for tomatoes from Northern farms?
In Ekiti, the state Governor has already given local hunters an executive order to shoot any AK-47 wielding herdsmen sighted anywhere in the state. It may not have occurred to the Governor that an AK-47 is far more versatile than a “shakabula” that is made by local blacksmiths and that he may actually be sending his local hunters on a suicide mission, but I doubt if the same Governor will stop lorry loads of fresh and healthy tomato baskets coming from Gombe to Ekiti markets! Thus, whereas cattle-grazing is causing ethnic division, tomato is generating so much hypocritical love for the Northern farmer: “Please, send us tomato, stop selling tomato to the tomato paste producers!”. This country is truly far more integrated and its various units so interdependent, in more ways than the politics of hate and division would ever allow the people to see. It is tomato today, should onions, millet and kolanuts also become very scarce, Southerners may start begging Northern farmers to please bring their produce to the South. This is the truth of our interdependence but we need to get our politics right and those who exploit ethnic divisions must allow the country to grow.
One final point: The scarcity of tomato and the threat of a national food crisis should remind policy makers at all levels, of the importance of agriculture. A nation that can feed itself is a safe and secure nation. A hungry nation can only have sad people. Tomato is incidentally, a versatile vegetable, very easy to grow, usually ready for harvest between 60 – 85 days. Those who are screaming “give us tomatoes”, and playing politics with it, may also do well to embark on subsistence farming: create a small garden in the backyard, turn that uncultivated plot of land into a small farm, plant a variety of food plants, remove that your white collar, stop waiting on the Northern tomato farmer, get on with the food revolution we need…while hoping that some day, Nigerian leaders will stop waiting for oil money and rediscover agriculture as Nigeria’s true gold.
Source Reuben Abati website.
One of the major news items in circulation has been the scarcity of tomato. Incidentally, Nigeria is (was) the 14th largest producer of tomato in the world and the second largest producer in Africa, after Egypt, but our country hardly produces enough to meet the local demand of about 2.3 million tonnes, and lacks the capacity to ensure an effective storage or value chain processing of what is produced.
Out of the 1.8 million tonnes that the country produces annually, 900, 000 tonnes are left to rot and waste. Meanwhile, tomato-processing companies in the country operate below capacity and many of them have had to shut down.
The CEO of Erisco Foods, Lagos, Eric Umeofia laments that tomato processing companies lack access to foreign exchange to enable them buy heat-resistant seedlings and other tools that would help ensure the country’s sufficiency in local production of tomato paste. Similarly, Dangote Tomato Factory recently suspended operations due to the scarcity of tomatoes and the assault on its tomato farms by a tomato leaves destroying moth, known as “tuta absoluta” - a South American native, also known as the Tomato Ebola, because of its Ebola-like characteristics.
Other reasons have been advanced for the scarcity of tomatoes in our markets: the fuel crisis which has driven up costs making it difficult and expensive for Northern tomato farmers to bring tomatoes to the South, insurgency in the North East which has resulted in the closure of many tomato farms in that region, thus cutting off national output, the recent ethnic crisis in Mile 2, during which Hausa Fulani traders and other marketers engaged in a murderous brawl, climate-change induced drought and heat wave in the Northern-tomato producing states of Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Plateau, Kano and Gombe. In the best of seasons, Nigeria spends $1.5 billion annually on the importation of tomato products. The cost in this regard, seems certain to rise.
Already, the effect of this tomato blight is being felt in households. Whereas a few months ago, a basket of tomato was about N5, 000, it is now about N40, 000 per basket. Housewives are protesting bitterly about how a piece of tomato vegetable has jumped up by about 650%, such that three pieces now go for as much as N500. Tomato in Nigeria today is thus more expensive than a litre of petrol! I have it on good authority, that in those face-me-I-face you quarters where the poor live, it has in fact become risky to leave a tin of tomato paste carelessly or fresh tomatoes lying around: they would most certainly be stolen, and there have been reports of soup pots suddenly vanishing should the owner take a minute from the communal kitchen to use the loo. Many are resorting to desperate measures to sort out a growing epidemic of empty stomachs and empty pockets. Unless this matter is addressed seriously and urgently, the social crisis may be far too costly in both the short and the long run: hungry people could become sick and angry, hungry citizens could become thieves and a nuisance, they could also become angry voters and a rebellious populace.
However, the most brilliant explanation that we have received so far from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is that there is tomato scarcity because of “tuta absoluta”. According to the Minister of Agriculture, Audu Ogbeh, a group of experts will be immediately commissioned to advise the government of Nigeria on the way forward. The mandate of these experts is to “appraise the situation”, and then give us “a figure on cost of treatment…so we will source funds to tackle it.” Is that what this is all about? I am not in the mood at this moment, to spoil anyone’s day, with straight-to-the-nose-the-mouth-and-the-groin punches but I think that the response from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture is far from adequate, if not stupid. Please, where is that bow-tie wearing Akinwumi Adesina, the former Minister of Agriculture, now on loan to the African Development Bank?
What we are dealing with is a national food security crisis. Before the commissioned outsiders begin to “appraise and cost”, the resident experts in the Ministry, should know that it is not only tomato that has become a scarce and expensive item in Nigerian kitchens, virtually every food item has become unaffordable and there are many homes that can no longer feed properly. The scarcity of tomato is only a metaphor for the spread of staggering inflation and the hunger that ravages the land. A bag of rice that was once N7, 000 is now N19, 000 per bag, a congo of garri has jumped from N170 to N300, bread from N200 per loaf to N300, and same is the case with virtually every food item. More than this, tomato scarcity is a metaphor for the lack of continuity in governance processes (What happened to all that revolution in the agriculture sector under Akinwumi Adesina as Minister?) and of course, for the failure since independence, to take agriculture seriously as a major vehicle of national security and development. If the response to this query is that nothing concrete actually took place under previous administrations, then what is the present Minister’s blueprint? What is his comprehensive agenda for ensuring food sufficiency?
It is indeed absurd that in 2016, we cannot produce enough tomatoes to feed ourselves – the short of it is that that single narrative about “tomato ebola” calls for more rigorous thinking. It is not enough to deal episodically with tomato scarcity, or the scarcity of any other food item; this must be done within the context of a plan of action. The job of government officials is to give the people hope and not to deepen their agony. A committee of experts looking into the scarcity of tomato, and how to throw money at the problem (!) is a round-about excuse for doing nothing. The knowledge that is required is within easy reach and much of the issues at stake, those within the province of the Ministry and those located in the larger context, are out there in the public domain, and perhaps, also in those accumulated files and old reports that most officials hardly ever read. The Ministry also spoke up rather too tardily.
For weeks, there have been all kinds of ethnic and political insinuations about how tomato became scarce, some of which, allowed to fester for too long, could have resulted in other crises. And we can only hope that the connection between food and health will not be lost on the experts. The health benefits of tomato alone are so many; to have a population no longer eating tomatoes, because of its cost could have long-term health implications. And while we expect the Federal Government to take the lead in terms of visioning, we should remember to ask: what are the state governments also doing? What are the states doing to promote agriculture and ensure food security? Apart from Kaduna state, other state governments have been criminally silent about the food crisis or they really don’t know since they probably get supplies of fresh tomatoes from neighboring countries for their own kitchens. All the big men eating imported fresh tomatoes when we, the people, can’t get tomatoes to eat, just “continuu eh” but don’t forget that a hungry and angry voter is an enemy of politicians.
There is another side to this whole tomato thing that is noteworthy. Special notice must be taken of the reference to the insurgency in the North East as a threat to agriculture. It is also interesting that most of the tomatoes produced in the country are from the North, and the Middle Belt. Check the list of major tomato producing states in Nigeria: Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Gombe, Plateau. Also check the list of the states where people are complaining most about the cost of tomato: they are all in the South! We should ask: so Southern Nigerians are grumbling about tomato being expensive and scarce, why are they so dependent on Northern farmers? They want tomatoes from the North, but are these not the same people who don’t want to see Northern cattle herdsmen in the South? Are these not the same people campaigning on social media that Southerners should stop buying beef in order to spoil market for Northern herdsmen? They are now begging for tomatoes from Northern farms?
In Ekiti, the state Governor has already given local hunters an executive order to shoot any AK-47 wielding herdsmen sighted anywhere in the state. It may not have occurred to the Governor that an AK-47 is far more versatile than a “shakabula” that is made by local blacksmiths and that he may actually be sending his local hunters on a suicide mission, but I doubt if the same Governor will stop lorry loads of fresh and healthy tomato baskets coming from Gombe to Ekiti markets! Thus, whereas cattle-grazing is causing ethnic division, tomato is generating so much hypocritical love for the Northern farmer: “Please, send us tomato, stop selling tomato to the tomato paste producers!”. This country is truly far more integrated and its various units so interdependent, in more ways than the politics of hate and division would ever allow the people to see. It is tomato today, should onions, millet and kolanuts also become very scarce, Southerners may start begging Northern farmers to please bring their produce to the South. This is the truth of our interdependence but we need to get our politics right and those who exploit ethnic divisions must allow the country to grow.
One final point: The scarcity of tomato and the threat of a national food crisis should remind policy makers at all levels, of the importance of agriculture. A nation that can feed itself is a safe and secure nation. A hungry nation can only have sad people. Tomato is incidentally, a versatile vegetable, very easy to grow, usually ready for harvest between 60 – 85 days. Those who are screaming “give us tomatoes”, and playing politics with it, may also do well to embark on subsistence farming: create a small garden in the backyard, turn that uncultivated plot of land into a small farm, plant a variety of food plants, remove that your white collar, stop waiting on the Northern tomato farmer, get on with the food revolution we need…while hoping that some day, Nigerian leaders will stop waiting for oil money and rediscover agriculture as Nigeria’s true gold.
Source Reuben Abati website.
Nine Key Milestones in President Buhari's First year - Garba Shehu
NINE KEY MILESTONES IN PRESIDENT BUHARI'S FIRST YEAR BY GARBA SHEHU.
Twelve months ago, President Muhammadu Buhari was sworn in as the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He came to power following the decisive victory of his party, the All Progressives Congress, APC over the ruling People’s Democratic Party, PDP and its candidate, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. The victory ended the 16-year reign of the PDP.
President Buhari campaigned on a promise to fight Boko Haram terrorism and secure the whoe country, fight corruption and develop the economy to the point that it creates jobs for the teeming unemployed.
The campaign message caught on very well with most Nigerians, against the desperate efforts of the Jonathan administration which deployed incumbency as tool for its own campaign. They literally threw the kitchen at candidate Buhari. The government media were used against the opponent. The private media sold their outlets to a free-spending government pouring out venom, hate speech, libel and defamation. The public treasury was personalized and its content poured into a campaign that shared out money for weapons purchase to fight Boko Haram terrorism into the pockets of party leaders and their campaign staff. The Army which served as the glue that held the country as one through the years was compromised to such extent that they claimed not to be aware that a former General in the Head of State, Muhammadu Buhari had a secondary school certificate. Of course the certificate resurfaced shortly after he won the election.
President Buhari came to office amidst massive hope and expectation at home and abroad, that here at last was a leader who would stop the slide and lead Nigeria to progress, development and the realization of her destiny. The mood all over Nigeria, the continent and the world at the time he took over was euphoric.
In line with the promises made, Nigeria under Muhammadu Buhari has begun to show that it will be a radically different country than one the world had become used to. Here is a proof of that:
Promise of Transparency and Accountability
A promise kept by the President is of a government that not only preached but also practiced transparency and accountability. The President and the Vice President made public their assets as declared before they took office on May 29th.
For the first time in the annals of our Executive-Legislative relations, this country had all ministers nominated screened and passed without any casualty. What is important is that not a single incident was reported involving exchange of money in bribery of parliamentarians. The President’s first budget, the 2016 appropriations bill was passed, even though after some delays, without the usual bribery allegations that attended the passage of budgets. The Senate and the House under their current leadership must themselves be proud of this happening at this time.
While still on the budget, the President must take credit for the exposure of a particular kind of fraud, the padding of budget, itself a known and ongoing practice until the whistle was blown by diligent ministers and parliamentarians. For once, the country has a budget, the 2016 appropriations bill that is rid of added billions ending up in the pockets of officials. By putting these changes in place, the government has established a model for transparency in public expenditure.
Implementing the Treasury Single Account,TSA
The President has been trying to right the many wrongs things he inherited, especially in terms of securing government revenues which leaked or were out rightly diverted to private accounts.
President Buhari didn't invent the TSA. What he did is to bring political will to bear on its implementation.
By this, government has a snapshot at any given time of incoming revenue and expenditure following the centralization of government accounts domiciled at the Central Bank.
At the last count, the President said he had saved the country money in excess of three trillion Naira which would otherwise have been wasted or shared out to officials at the end of the financial year.
Minimum Government
The President kept his promise to reduce superfluity in government administration by cutting down on the number of ministers, ministries and government departments. The delay in the coming of ministers was first to reduce the number of ministries, and then set a new set of ground rules to stop the theft of government resources through systemic leakages. Boards of directors will come only when the President is satisfied that agencies of government are brought in line with existing ministries structure and that a new foundation is laid, in all cases, to replace the rotten past that allowed a free-for-all when it came to dealing with public assets.
Fighting Insecurity/Stabilizing the State
The first priority of this government as repeatedly mentioned by the President, is security. "You must secure the country before you can manage it well”, is a classic statement the President has continued to repeat. Where we stand on this today is best captured by the country’s Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami in saying that “the capacity of Boko Haram to hold territory has totally been decimated. Our focus now is on dealing with the remnants of their forces and re-focusing on the unfortunate humanitarian challenge caused by their activities.” This was achieved following the change in the leadership of the armed forces, the movement of the command and control centre to Maiduguri and realization of how much can be achieved with greater international cooperation. In this respect, the coming together of Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, Chad and Benin in the Muti-National Joint Task Force under a centralized command had been helpful in forging a common, regional response to the Boko Haran threat.
War against corruption/ending impunity
Nigeria is country of paradoxes, one in which the VIP steals an elephant and runs away with it but the poor man stealing a goat goes to jail for up to 30 years.
The President has severally expressed his frustrations over the fact that known thieves, 419 kingpins fly over our heads in private jets and run around in Jaguars and Rolls Royces, as we wait endlessly for the law to take its course. As military Head of State, what he did was to lock them up until they proved their innocence. As an elected President, he has sworn to uphold the constitution which guarantees citizen rights.
Things are changing with impunity in the country. For the first time, VIP suspects are being asked questions by the investigating agencies and are being charged to court. Many who would have snubbed the bailiff and go scot-free are now standing before undergoing trials. Would anyone have thought that a Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, pretenders to thrones, the children of “natural rulers” including “toy” Sultans, Kings, Emirs and Chiefs will be brought to trial and kept in prisons? Ending impunity is one of key milestones of this administration.
The country today basks in the aura of a major battle against corruption and the impunity that goes with that and world is supporting the President.
In one year of his administration, a miracle has happened, which is that there has been the total absence of multi-billion naira corruption scandals that had characterized the previous administrations.
Global Diplomacy
In one year, the President has successfully reset the relationship between this country and her immediate neighbors and with our lost friends, both far and near. The West, Far East and Middle-East countries as well as our neighbors who walked away from this country on account of the arrogance of our past leaders, corruption and the abuse of human rights have all come back to us.
Over the past one year in which the President traveled to many countries, he has succeeded in convincing the world that Nigeria is now under a responsible management with a government that is inviting of prospective investors. As a result of his travels, Nigeria’s image has improved and the country is occupying a preeminent place in the comity of nations.
President Buhari has indeed been a revelation to the world. In addition to improving the standing of the country, his personal integrity has given him the best ever international attention by any past President of this country. The trips have opened doors that were shut against Nigeria, doors that bring security cooperation, and eventually trade and economic benefits to the country.
Fuel Import Liberalization
The fuel subsidy issue is a well-known cause of trouble in this country. Every government in the past that tried to remove it got tested in its political will and dropped it like a hot metal. There is nothing in this country that is as politically unpopular.
Yet, even those who vocally supported it knew that it wasn't working for the ordinary citizens. The secret service surveyed the price regime of N86 per liter and reported to government five months ago that the price prevailed only in Lagos and Abuja with the rest of the country paying higher. Petrol subsidies served as a scam to line the pockets of officials and cronies in business.
Acting in the best national interest, the President took the very brave action of liberalizing the import of PMS products by first removing subsidy from the budget and then opening the door for marketers to bring the products to sell at a profit, saving the country trillions of naira in fraudulent subsidy payments.
Due mainly to the trust they reposed in him, Nigerians have accepted this change in the belief that the president means for them.
Major Infrastructure Products/Diversification
The President’s campaign for the diversification of the economy, away from over-dependence on oil is already setting the tone for the transformation of the economy into an agaric and industrial one.
The President has equally fared well in his efforts to attract investment into Nigeria following his trips to some of those countries. Discussions are ongoing with a number of them with rich foreign reserves that have indicated a willingness to pour foreign capital to develop the economy and create jobs here. From the sometimes zero capital allocation of the past, his budget this year has 30% of its content devoted to capital projects. After many years of delay, there will be a serious attempt to improve roads and rail transport as well as power projects. His administration is determined to improve the country's infrastructure landscape in a short period of time.
Social welfare program
President Buhari’s administration is the first in Nigeria’s history to take a major step towards the institution of a social welfare scheme as enunciated by the APC.
One million of country’s poorest of the poor will get a monthly supplement of N5,000.00. Another one million will get start-up loans from the Bank of Industry. Five hundred thousand graduates will get teaching jobs and 375,000 others without degrees will receive training to acquire skills. Under this year’s budget, there is money for scholarship for medical, science and technology students in tertiary institutions and a meal-a-day for five million children in primary school. For the first time, the ordinary citizen can claim that he/she has a budget of his/her own.
In one year in office, the Buhari administration has taken major steps to secure the country and curtailing corruption while attracting investors with a view to promoting industrial growth and job creation. Although Nigeria is confronted with many problems that don’t have quick fixes, the administration has revealed a fine talent for finding lasting solutions to those kinds problems that had defied solution under the past governments. Given the tenacity with which he fought the Boko Haram terrorism and corruption, the economy, which is still work in progress, will receive a lot more attention going forward.
The rate of job creation and manufacturing should improve from the third quarter of the year when the implementation of the budget gathers steam. Happily, voters are still hopeful that President Buhari will produce the cure for the ills of the economy.
While many still believe that it is too early to assess the overall performance of the administration, the sentiment that prevails across the country is that Nigeria will improve a lot under his leadership; that he has a good vision and he is committed to Nigeria and Nigerian people.
Early enthusiasm and high expectations have their challenges especially in times of low earnings from exports. Given this situation, delivery will take time but the promised change will not fail to come.
In one year in office, the President has fused his own ideas with APC’s program which is strong on social welfare. His government has brought hope and respect to Nigeria. He has made a strong start on security, war against corruption, foreign policy although the sticking issue remains the limping economy he inherited which is hamstrung by corruption and the past failure to diversity.
The President is tirelessly working for Nigeria and will continue to do so with hard work, diligence and honestly for the period he is in office.
By Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
Media and Publicity
Twelve months ago, President Muhammadu Buhari was sworn in as the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He came to power following the decisive victory of his party, the All Progressives Congress, APC over the ruling People’s Democratic Party, PDP and its candidate, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. The victory ended the 16-year reign of the PDP.
President Buhari campaigned on a promise to fight Boko Haram terrorism and secure the whoe country, fight corruption and develop the economy to the point that it creates jobs for the teeming unemployed.
The campaign message caught on very well with most Nigerians, against the desperate efforts of the Jonathan administration which deployed incumbency as tool for its own campaign. They literally threw the kitchen at candidate Buhari. The government media were used against the opponent. The private media sold their outlets to a free-spending government pouring out venom, hate speech, libel and defamation. The public treasury was personalized and its content poured into a campaign that shared out money for weapons purchase to fight Boko Haram terrorism into the pockets of party leaders and their campaign staff. The Army which served as the glue that held the country as one through the years was compromised to such extent that they claimed not to be aware that a former General in the Head of State, Muhammadu Buhari had a secondary school certificate. Of course the certificate resurfaced shortly after he won the election.
President Buhari came to office amidst massive hope and expectation at home and abroad, that here at last was a leader who would stop the slide and lead Nigeria to progress, development and the realization of her destiny. The mood all over Nigeria, the continent and the world at the time he took over was euphoric.
In line with the promises made, Nigeria under Muhammadu Buhari has begun to show that it will be a radically different country than one the world had become used to. Here is a proof of that:
Promise of Transparency and Accountability
A promise kept by the President is of a government that not only preached but also practiced transparency and accountability. The President and the Vice President made public their assets as declared before they took office on May 29th.
For the first time in the annals of our Executive-Legislative relations, this country had all ministers nominated screened and passed without any casualty. What is important is that not a single incident was reported involving exchange of money in bribery of parliamentarians. The President’s first budget, the 2016 appropriations bill was passed, even though after some delays, without the usual bribery allegations that attended the passage of budgets. The Senate and the House under their current leadership must themselves be proud of this happening at this time.
While still on the budget, the President must take credit for the exposure of a particular kind of fraud, the padding of budget, itself a known and ongoing practice until the whistle was blown by diligent ministers and parliamentarians. For once, the country has a budget, the 2016 appropriations bill that is rid of added billions ending up in the pockets of officials. By putting these changes in place, the government has established a model for transparency in public expenditure.
Implementing the Treasury Single Account,TSA
The President has been trying to right the many wrongs things he inherited, especially in terms of securing government revenues which leaked or were out rightly diverted to private accounts.
President Buhari didn't invent the TSA. What he did is to bring political will to bear on its implementation.
By this, government has a snapshot at any given time of incoming revenue and expenditure following the centralization of government accounts domiciled at the Central Bank.
At the last count, the President said he had saved the country money in excess of three trillion Naira which would otherwise have been wasted or shared out to officials at the end of the financial year.
Minimum Government
The President kept his promise to reduce superfluity in government administration by cutting down on the number of ministers, ministries and government departments. The delay in the coming of ministers was first to reduce the number of ministries, and then set a new set of ground rules to stop the theft of government resources through systemic leakages. Boards of directors will come only when the President is satisfied that agencies of government are brought in line with existing ministries structure and that a new foundation is laid, in all cases, to replace the rotten past that allowed a free-for-all when it came to dealing with public assets.
Fighting Insecurity/Stabilizing the State
The first priority of this government as repeatedly mentioned by the President, is security. "You must secure the country before you can manage it well”, is a classic statement the President has continued to repeat. Where we stand on this today is best captured by the country’s Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami in saying that “the capacity of Boko Haram to hold territory has totally been decimated. Our focus now is on dealing with the remnants of their forces and re-focusing on the unfortunate humanitarian challenge caused by their activities.” This was achieved following the change in the leadership of the armed forces, the movement of the command and control centre to Maiduguri and realization of how much can be achieved with greater international cooperation. In this respect, the coming together of Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, Chad and Benin in the Muti-National Joint Task Force under a centralized command had been helpful in forging a common, regional response to the Boko Haran threat.
War against corruption/ending impunity
Nigeria is country of paradoxes, one in which the VIP steals an elephant and runs away with it but the poor man stealing a goat goes to jail for up to 30 years.
The President has severally expressed his frustrations over the fact that known thieves, 419 kingpins fly over our heads in private jets and run around in Jaguars and Rolls Royces, as we wait endlessly for the law to take its course. As military Head of State, what he did was to lock them up until they proved their innocence. As an elected President, he has sworn to uphold the constitution which guarantees citizen rights.
Things are changing with impunity in the country. For the first time, VIP suspects are being asked questions by the investigating agencies and are being charged to court. Many who would have snubbed the bailiff and go scot-free are now standing before undergoing trials. Would anyone have thought that a Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, pretenders to thrones, the children of “natural rulers” including “toy” Sultans, Kings, Emirs and Chiefs will be brought to trial and kept in prisons? Ending impunity is one of key milestones of this administration.
The country today basks in the aura of a major battle against corruption and the impunity that goes with that and world is supporting the President.
In one year of his administration, a miracle has happened, which is that there has been the total absence of multi-billion naira corruption scandals that had characterized the previous administrations.
Global Diplomacy
In one year, the President has successfully reset the relationship between this country and her immediate neighbors and with our lost friends, both far and near. The West, Far East and Middle-East countries as well as our neighbors who walked away from this country on account of the arrogance of our past leaders, corruption and the abuse of human rights have all come back to us.
Over the past one year in which the President traveled to many countries, he has succeeded in convincing the world that Nigeria is now under a responsible management with a government that is inviting of prospective investors. As a result of his travels, Nigeria’s image has improved and the country is occupying a preeminent place in the comity of nations.
President Buhari has indeed been a revelation to the world. In addition to improving the standing of the country, his personal integrity has given him the best ever international attention by any past President of this country. The trips have opened doors that were shut against Nigeria, doors that bring security cooperation, and eventually trade and economic benefits to the country.
Fuel Import Liberalization
The fuel subsidy issue is a well-known cause of trouble in this country. Every government in the past that tried to remove it got tested in its political will and dropped it like a hot metal. There is nothing in this country that is as politically unpopular.
Yet, even those who vocally supported it knew that it wasn't working for the ordinary citizens. The secret service surveyed the price regime of N86 per liter and reported to government five months ago that the price prevailed only in Lagos and Abuja with the rest of the country paying higher. Petrol subsidies served as a scam to line the pockets of officials and cronies in business.
Acting in the best national interest, the President took the very brave action of liberalizing the import of PMS products by first removing subsidy from the budget and then opening the door for marketers to bring the products to sell at a profit, saving the country trillions of naira in fraudulent subsidy payments.
Due mainly to the trust they reposed in him, Nigerians have accepted this change in the belief that the president means for them.
Major Infrastructure Products/Diversification
The President’s campaign for the diversification of the economy, away from over-dependence on oil is already setting the tone for the transformation of the economy into an agaric and industrial one.
The President has equally fared well in his efforts to attract investment into Nigeria following his trips to some of those countries. Discussions are ongoing with a number of them with rich foreign reserves that have indicated a willingness to pour foreign capital to develop the economy and create jobs here. From the sometimes zero capital allocation of the past, his budget this year has 30% of its content devoted to capital projects. After many years of delay, there will be a serious attempt to improve roads and rail transport as well as power projects. His administration is determined to improve the country's infrastructure landscape in a short period of time.
Social welfare program
President Buhari’s administration is the first in Nigeria’s history to take a major step towards the institution of a social welfare scheme as enunciated by the APC.
One million of country’s poorest of the poor will get a monthly supplement of N5,000.00. Another one million will get start-up loans from the Bank of Industry. Five hundred thousand graduates will get teaching jobs and 375,000 others without degrees will receive training to acquire skills. Under this year’s budget, there is money for scholarship for medical, science and technology students in tertiary institutions and a meal-a-day for five million children in primary school. For the first time, the ordinary citizen can claim that he/she has a budget of his/her own.
In one year in office, the Buhari administration has taken major steps to secure the country and curtailing corruption while attracting investors with a view to promoting industrial growth and job creation. Although Nigeria is confronted with many problems that don’t have quick fixes, the administration has revealed a fine talent for finding lasting solutions to those kinds problems that had defied solution under the past governments. Given the tenacity with which he fought the Boko Haram terrorism and corruption, the economy, which is still work in progress, will receive a lot more attention going forward.
The rate of job creation and manufacturing should improve from the third quarter of the year when the implementation of the budget gathers steam. Happily, voters are still hopeful that President Buhari will produce the cure for the ills of the economy.
While many still believe that it is too early to assess the overall performance of the administration, the sentiment that prevails across the country is that Nigeria will improve a lot under his leadership; that he has a good vision and he is committed to Nigeria and Nigerian people.
Early enthusiasm and high expectations have their challenges especially in times of low earnings from exports. Given this situation, delivery will take time but the promised change will not fail to come.
In one year in office, the President has fused his own ideas with APC’s program which is strong on social welfare. His government has brought hope and respect to Nigeria. He has made a strong start on security, war against corruption, foreign policy although the sticking issue remains the limping economy he inherited which is hamstrung by corruption and the past failure to diversity.
The President is tirelessly working for Nigeria and will continue to do so with hard work, diligence and honestly for the period he is in office.
By Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant to the President
Media and Publicity
Kourtney Kardashian call ex husband Scott "baby daddy" as he turns a year older
Kourtney Kardashian took to instagram and shared a provocative photo of them,to mock her ex Husband Scott Disick who'se main birthday was yesterday the 26th of May.He turned 33 but plans to hold a party party on Saturday in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
She called him baby daddy lol.She wrote "'Happy birthday baby daddy!"
She called him baby daddy lol.She wrote "'Happy birthday baby daddy!"
Lagos Fire service is neeed at Cacasa Nig Ltd house Awolowo Rd Ikoyi Lagos
The Cacasa Nigeria Limited,Building situated along Awolowo road,Ikoyi Lagos is currently on fire and the services of the Firs service is required.
We hope they have water and their tires are good.
Photo Credit:Instablog
We hope they have water and their tires are good.
Photo Credit:Instablog
Thursday 26 May 2016
RIVERS PEOPLE WILL NEVER REGRET VOTING ME - Governor Wike
Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has declared that the people of the state will never regret giving him their mandate as he will fulfil all his campaign promises.
Speaking at the commissioning of the Rumukurusi-Eneka-Igwuruta road on Thursday, Governor Wike said that he is determined to make a difference in the lives of the people.
He reiterated that his administration will complete all key projects abandoned by the immediate past administration especially those that will impact positively on the lives of the people.
The governor said; "We will never disappoint the people of the state. You will not regret giving us your mandate .
"We don't care who awarded the project. Our concern is to execute projects that will impact positively on the community ".
He commended the people of the three communities of Rumukurusi-Eneka-Igwuruta for cooperating with the contractor to deliver the project on schedule.
Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Mr Bathuel Iheanyichukwu said the road was abandoned in a deplorable condition by the immediate past administration.
He said the completion of the road has revived the economy of the three communities and created access to the Port Harcourt International Airport.
The commissioning witnessed celebration by Chiefs and residents of the populated suburbs.
Simeon Nwakaudu,
Special Assistant to the Rivers State Governor, Electronic Media.
May 26, 2016.
Speaking at the commissioning of the Rumukurusi-Eneka-Igwuruta road on Thursday, Governor Wike said that he is determined to make a difference in the lives of the people.
He reiterated that his administration will complete all key projects abandoned by the immediate past administration especially those that will impact positively on the lives of the people.
The governor said; "We will never disappoint the people of the state. You will not regret giving us your mandate .
"We don't care who awarded the project. Our concern is to execute projects that will impact positively on the community ".
He commended the people of the three communities of Rumukurusi-Eneka-Igwuruta for cooperating with the contractor to deliver the project on schedule.
Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Mr Bathuel Iheanyichukwu said the road was abandoned in a deplorable condition by the immediate past administration.
He said the completion of the road has revived the economy of the three communities and created access to the Port Harcourt International Airport.
The commissioning witnessed celebration by Chiefs and residents of the populated suburbs.
Simeon Nwakaudu,
Special Assistant to the Rivers State Governor, Electronic Media.
May 26, 2016.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic opens up on offers from England amid Manchester United interest
Swedish internationa Zlatan Ibrahimovic opened up on his offers from some England clubs.He disclosed this while talking at a Sweden press conference as they started their Euro 2016 build-up.
"Let's see what happens. I've got concrete offers from clubs in England as well as Italy and from sides outside Europe. I had a fantastic time with him [Jose] at Inter and we said when I left that we might work together again. I have spoken to Mourinho every day since I left Inter. We talk a lot. He is the man to bring Manchester United back to the top. If you want action, you get Mourinho. He is a winner.”
He is likely to go to Manchester United because of Jose Mourinho.More detailed later.
"Let's see what happens. I've got concrete offers from clubs in England as well as Italy and from sides outside Europe. I had a fantastic time with him [Jose] at Inter and we said when I left that we might work together again. I have spoken to Mourinho every day since I left Inter. We talk a lot. He is the man to bring Manchester United back to the top. If you want action, you get Mourinho. He is a winner.”
He is likely to go to Manchester United because of Jose Mourinho.More detailed later.
Tiwa Savage and Son Jamil storms Dubai with swag
Both mother and son looking so adorable.What will be going through Teebillz mind now is what am thinking.
BREAKING: Dana Airlines’ pilots begins strike, disrupt flights across the country
Premium Times reports that,
A disagreement with management over promised largess has snowballed into a strike action by pilots of Dana Airlines resulting in the suspension of normal flight operations on Thursday May 26th 2016.
According to Premium Times,Scheduled flights have been disrupted with passengers booked to travel with the airline stranded at airports across the country.
At the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, announcements are made intermittently to communicate the development to customers waiting to board flights.
The spokesperson of the airline, Kingsley Ezenwa, told PREMIUM TIMES the management was working hard to resolve the crisis within a short time to enable it restore normal flight operations
Detailes later
A disagreement with management over promised largess has snowballed into a strike action by pilots of Dana Airlines resulting in the suspension of normal flight operations on Thursday May 26th 2016.
According to Premium Times,Scheduled flights have been disrupted with passengers booked to travel with the airline stranded at airports across the country.
At the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, announcements are made intermittently to communicate the development to customers waiting to board flights.
The spokesperson of the airline, Kingsley Ezenwa, told PREMIUM TIMES the management was working hard to resolve the crisis within a short time to enable it restore normal flight operations
Detailes later
The Economist writes about North Korea's nuclear ambitions
The Economist has written about North Korea's nuclear ambitions and urging the entire world to get serious about their nuclear ambition which might be detrimental to the world.
INEC Releases EDO and ONDO Governorship election timetable
Press release from Independent National Electoral Commission Abuja.
The Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), has released the time table and schedule of activities for the governorship elections in Edo and Ondo, scheduled for Saturday, 10th September and Saturday, 26th November 2016, respectively.
According to the Commission, 12th June 2016 is the date scheduled for the commencement of Campaigns by Political Parties participating in the Edo governorship election, while 2nd June – 4th of July, 2016 has been set aside for the conduct of party primaries, including resolution of disputes arising from the primaries.
The Commission has scheduled 11th August, 2016 for publication of official Register of Voters for the election, while submission of names of party agents for the election to the Electoral Officers of the Local Government Areas has been fixed for 27th August, 2016.
Thursday the 8th of September, 2016 is the last day for campaigns for the Edo governorship election.
Similarly, INEC has scheduled 28th August 2016 for commencement of campaign by Political Parties in the Ondo governorship election.
The Commission has scheduled 22nd - 26th August 2016 for collection of forms by Political Parties at INEC Headquarters, while conduct of party primaries, including resolution of disputes arising from the primaries will hold between 18th – 19th September, 2016.
Publication of official Register of Voters for the election will be done on the 27th of October, 2016, while submission of names of party agents for the election to the Electoral Officer of the Local Government Areas is slated for 19th November, 2016.
The last day for campaigns for the Ondo governorship election is Thursday, 24th November, 2016.
The Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), has released the time table and schedule of activities for the governorship elections in Edo and Ondo, scheduled for Saturday, 10th September and Saturday, 26th November 2016, respectively.
According to the Commission, 12th June 2016 is the date scheduled for the commencement of Campaigns by Political Parties participating in the Edo governorship election, while 2nd June – 4th of July, 2016 has been set aside for the conduct of party primaries, including resolution of disputes arising from the primaries.
The Commission has scheduled 11th August, 2016 for publication of official Register of Voters for the election, while submission of names of party agents for the election to the Electoral Officers of the Local Government Areas has been fixed for 27th August, 2016.
Thursday the 8th of September, 2016 is the last day for campaigns for the Edo governorship election.
Similarly, INEC has scheduled 28th August 2016 for commencement of campaign by Political Parties in the Ondo governorship election.
The Commission has scheduled 22nd - 26th August 2016 for collection of forms by Political Parties at INEC Headquarters, while conduct of party primaries, including resolution of disputes arising from the primaries will hold between 18th – 19th September, 2016.
Publication of official Register of Voters for the election will be done on the 27th of October, 2016, while submission of names of party agents for the election to the Electoral Officer of the Local Government Areas is slated for 19th November, 2016.
The last day for campaigns for the Ondo governorship election is Thursday, 24th November, 2016.
Actress rachael Okonkow turns a year older today
The actress took to instagram to share some new photo for her big day.We wish her more beautiful years ahead.More pictures below,
Buhari’s one year ‘a colossal waste’ — Gov.Fayose
“Petrol Price Increment as Buhari’s 1st Year Anniversary Gift to Nigerians”
The statement reads; “Despite his electoral promise to reduce petrol pump price from the N87 per litre that he met it, President Muhammadu Buhari increased the price to N145! With this increment, Buhari has further impoverished Nigerians.
“Nigerians should be reminded that on April 14, 2015, President Buhari’s ally and former Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Prof. Tam David-West, told Nigerians that Gen. Mohammed Buhari (who was then President-elect), will reduce the fuel pump price from N87 to N40 per litre. Buhari did not debunk this statement made by his friend and major supporter.
“Also, when the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) government of Dr Goodluck Jonathan reduced the petrol pump price from N97 to N87 per litre in January 2015, former Lagos State Governor who is now Minister of Works, Power and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola said N10 reduction of the petrol pump price was too low and that Nigerians will get a better deal under Buhari. Fashola tweeted on January 18, 2015; ‘On PMS price reduction by N10. Now they listen. Oil the raw material drop over 50%, N10 is just about 10%. Good try but Nija can get a beta deal.’
“In rewarding Nigerians for electing him as president, President Buhari opted to increase petrol pump price by N58.50!
“The first justification of the increment was removal of subsidy. But Nigerians were later stunned when the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo said pump price of petrol was increased because Nigeria was broke!
“In other words, President Buhari increased petrol pump price because the country was broke and it needed to shore up its revenue base. The N58.50 added to the previous pump price of N86.50 was an Indirect Tax imposed on each litre of petrol purchased by Nigerians.
“Simply put, the Federal Government is indirectly collecting N58.50 naira tax from suffering Nigerians on each litre of petrol they buy. Buhari is no doubt acting like the proverbial Agbalowomeri Baale Jontolo (Aking that exploit his extremely poor subject to further enrich himself).
“It is on record that on May 2 this year, the federal government, in the Petroleum Product Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) Template released in Abuja, told Nigerians that it was subsidising petrol at N12.62 per litre.
“In 2012 when the Dr Jonathan removed fuel subsidy and increased petrol price to N141 per litre, crude oil was selling at $111 per barrel.
“If not wickedness, how can petrol price be increased to N145 per litre when crude oil is now selling at $49 per barrel?
“Increasing petrol pump price by N58.50 when the federal government claimed it was subsidising the product at N12.62 per litre is clear wickedness on the part of President Buhari.
“In the history of Nigeria, increase in price of petrol has never been as high as it was done by Buhari, putting Nigerians in severe hardship as the product affects every sector of the economy.
“Too bad, those who opposed removal of fuel subsidy in 2012 and funded the Occupy Nigeria protest are the ones canvassing support for this Buhari’s wicked one year anniversary gift to Nigerians.
“The labour unions are now completely cowed, dashing completely hope of the common people of Nigeria.
“Interestingly, this is not the first election promise by APC/Buhari that have been jettisoned since they got into office. The N5,000 unemployment benefits promised the downtrodden was derisively put down by this President as “largesse” with the president spurning the emotional plea of his own wife to the contrary. To add salt and insult unto injury, he traveled abroad to make the statement.
“Despite the mindless and indefensible hike in fuel price, the commodity is still not available. Minister of state for Petroleum says there is no forex to pay for fuel import; yet there is forex to indulge Buhari’s foreign-trip profligacy.
“Presidential spin doctors and APC chieftains labouring to hoodwink the people speak glibly of how so-called deregulation will make products available, reduce cost through competition and the interplay of market forces as well as encourage private sector to build more refineries. But thank God who loves Nigerians so much, the lies of
these people was by divine arrangement, I suppose, revealed by no less a person than the junior minister Ibe Kachikwu himself when he said importation of fuel continues till 2019.
“Nigerians should be reminded that the manner of hardship being faced now was also faced during Buhari’s first coming as a military dictator when people had to queue for essential commodities. Now, Nigerians can’t even afford common tomato to prepare soup.
“So Nigerians you have heard the truth: Under Buhari/APC, it is almost certain that our suffering will continue till 2019.
“Nigerians, remember I warned you before Buhari was elected; I have been warning you since Buhari became president and I am warning now that if nothing is done urgently, the economy of Nigeria will collapse.”
Source:Premium times.
The statement reads; “Despite his electoral promise to reduce petrol pump price from the N87 per litre that he met it, President Muhammadu Buhari increased the price to N145! With this increment, Buhari has further impoverished Nigerians.
“Nigerians should be reminded that on April 14, 2015, President Buhari’s ally and former Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Prof. Tam David-West, told Nigerians that Gen. Mohammed Buhari (who was then President-elect), will reduce the fuel pump price from N87 to N40 per litre. Buhari did not debunk this statement made by his friend and major supporter.
“Also, when the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) government of Dr Goodluck Jonathan reduced the petrol pump price from N97 to N87 per litre in January 2015, former Lagos State Governor who is now Minister of Works, Power and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola said N10 reduction of the petrol pump price was too low and that Nigerians will get a better deal under Buhari. Fashola tweeted on January 18, 2015; ‘On PMS price reduction by N10. Now they listen. Oil the raw material drop over 50%, N10 is just about 10%. Good try but Nija can get a beta deal.’
“In rewarding Nigerians for electing him as president, President Buhari opted to increase petrol pump price by N58.50!
“The first justification of the increment was removal of subsidy. But Nigerians were later stunned when the Vice President, Prof Yemi Osinbajo said pump price of petrol was increased because Nigeria was broke!
“In other words, President Buhari increased petrol pump price because the country was broke and it needed to shore up its revenue base. The N58.50 added to the previous pump price of N86.50 was an Indirect Tax imposed on each litre of petrol purchased by Nigerians.
“Simply put, the Federal Government is indirectly collecting N58.50 naira tax from suffering Nigerians on each litre of petrol they buy. Buhari is no doubt acting like the proverbial Agbalowomeri Baale Jontolo (Aking that exploit his extremely poor subject to further enrich himself).
“It is on record that on May 2 this year, the federal government, in the Petroleum Product Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) Template released in Abuja, told Nigerians that it was subsidising petrol at N12.62 per litre.
“In 2012 when the Dr Jonathan removed fuel subsidy and increased petrol price to N141 per litre, crude oil was selling at $111 per barrel.
“If not wickedness, how can petrol price be increased to N145 per litre when crude oil is now selling at $49 per barrel?
“Increasing petrol pump price by N58.50 when the federal government claimed it was subsidising the product at N12.62 per litre is clear wickedness on the part of President Buhari.
“In the history of Nigeria, increase in price of petrol has never been as high as it was done by Buhari, putting Nigerians in severe hardship as the product affects every sector of the economy.
“Too bad, those who opposed removal of fuel subsidy in 2012 and funded the Occupy Nigeria protest are the ones canvassing support for this Buhari’s wicked one year anniversary gift to Nigerians.
“The labour unions are now completely cowed, dashing completely hope of the common people of Nigeria.
“Interestingly, this is not the first election promise by APC/Buhari that have been jettisoned since they got into office. The N5,000 unemployment benefits promised the downtrodden was derisively put down by this President as “largesse” with the president spurning the emotional plea of his own wife to the contrary. To add salt and insult unto injury, he traveled abroad to make the statement.
“Despite the mindless and indefensible hike in fuel price, the commodity is still not available. Minister of state for Petroleum says there is no forex to pay for fuel import; yet there is forex to indulge Buhari’s foreign-trip profligacy.
“Presidential spin doctors and APC chieftains labouring to hoodwink the people speak glibly of how so-called deregulation will make products available, reduce cost through competition and the interplay of market forces as well as encourage private sector to build more refineries. But thank God who loves Nigerians so much, the lies of
these people was by divine arrangement, I suppose, revealed by no less a person than the junior minister Ibe Kachikwu himself when he said importation of fuel continues till 2019.
“Nigerians should be reminded that the manner of hardship being faced now was also faced during Buhari’s first coming as a military dictator when people had to queue for essential commodities. Now, Nigerians can’t even afford common tomato to prepare soup.
“So Nigerians you have heard the truth: Under Buhari/APC, it is almost certain that our suffering will continue till 2019.
“Nigerians, remember I warned you before Buhari was elected; I have been warning you since Buhari became president and I am warning now that if nothing is done urgently, the economy of Nigeria will collapse.”
Source:Premium times.
Actress Rita Edochie opens up on how she was sexually molested in Primary Six
Veteran Nollywood actress,Rita Edochie who was a guest at a seminar to end violence against children, yesterday in Abuja, opened up to NAN how she was sexually molested at a young age by a family friend. Her words:
“I was a victim of sexual abuse; that was when I was in primary six; I was going to the hospital and somebody called me.
The boy used some diabolic means and sexually violated me; when I could not see my period, I refuse to tell my mother, because she was very strict. I love sharing my experience because at the end of the day I succeeded; If I had not succeed, I would not have been able to be saying it."
The pregnancy was about seven months before my mother noticed it. She was shocked because she thought her being strict would not allow such a thing to happen. She asked how it happened and I told her everything; my brother picked a knife and wanted to kill me, but my mother stopped him.
It happened that the mother of the boy that violated me was my mother’s friend; the boy’s mother was surprise but the boy denied. My mother took me to hospital to abort the pregnancy with a planned of taking me to my grandmother’s place to stay for one week before returning home.
I told her I may lose my life in the process; and because she loved me, she then aborted the planned abortion; I feel it was God that spoke through me. My mother took care of the baby while I went to school; if not for my mother I would not be where I am today.’’
The veteran actress called on parents to communicate regularly with their children and make them their best friends. “Parents should always listen to their children’s complaints on happenings both in and outside the home," she added
“I was a victim of sexual abuse; that was when I was in primary six; I was going to the hospital and somebody called me.
The boy used some diabolic means and sexually violated me; when I could not see my period, I refuse to tell my mother, because she was very strict. I love sharing my experience because at the end of the day I succeeded; If I had not succeed, I would not have been able to be saying it."
The pregnancy was about seven months before my mother noticed it. She was shocked because she thought her being strict would not allow such a thing to happen. She asked how it happened and I told her everything; my brother picked a knife and wanted to kill me, but my mother stopped him.
It happened that the mother of the boy that violated me was my mother’s friend; the boy’s mother was surprise but the boy denied. My mother took me to hospital to abort the pregnancy with a planned of taking me to my grandmother’s place to stay for one week before returning home.
I told her I may lose my life in the process; and because she loved me, she then aborted the planned abortion; I feel it was God that spoke through me. My mother took care of the baby while I went to school; if not for my mother I would not be where I am today.’’
The veteran actress called on parents to communicate regularly with their children and make them their best friends. “Parents should always listen to their children’s complaints on happenings both in and outside the home," she added
We must work towards self-sufficiency in production of most items in our import list- President Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari reaffirmed Wednesday in Abuja that his administration is fully committed and determined to do all within its powers to achieve the rapid diversification of Nigeria's economy in the shortest possible time.
Speaking at a farewell audience with the outgoing Iranian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Saeed Koozechi, President Buhari said he was convinced that with greater diligence, hard work and patriotic determination to achieve self-sufficiency, Nigeria can produce most of the items currently on its import list.
"We made a terrible mistake by becoming a mono-product economy hinged on oil and we are now in a volatile situation, due to the crash in oil prices.
"We have seen the benefits of diversification which helped Iran to survive many years of sanctions and still come out strong.
"We are now fully committed to economic diversification. Most of the things on our import bills can be produced here. And we are determined to achieve that self-dependency," President Buhari told the outgoing envoy.
At a separate audience with the outgoing Chinese Ambassador, Mr. Gu Xiaojie, President Buhari gave an assurance that the Federal Government will continue to do its best to meet its obligations under bilateral agreements with China for the development of critical infrastructure in Nigeria.
The President said that because of their importance to Nigeria, his administration will uphold contractual agreements with Chinese companies for the development of essential infrastructure which it inherited from past administrations, and work to ensure that the projects are speedily completed.
The President reiterated his particular commitment to the completion of the Mambilla Power Project which, he said, was of great strategic importance to his government's efforts to ensure that Nigeria does not become over-reliant on gas-powered electricity generation.
President Buhari commended the outgoing ambassadors for their efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and their countries during their tenure in Abuja.
He wished them well in their future endeavours.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
May 25, 2016
Speaking at a farewell audience with the outgoing Iranian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Saeed Koozechi, President Buhari said he was convinced that with greater diligence, hard work and patriotic determination to achieve self-sufficiency, Nigeria can produce most of the items currently on its import list.
"We made a terrible mistake by becoming a mono-product economy hinged on oil and we are now in a volatile situation, due to the crash in oil prices.
"We have seen the benefits of diversification which helped Iran to survive many years of sanctions and still come out strong.
"We are now fully committed to economic diversification. Most of the things on our import bills can be produced here. And we are determined to achieve that self-dependency," President Buhari told the outgoing envoy.
At a separate audience with the outgoing Chinese Ambassador, Mr. Gu Xiaojie, President Buhari gave an assurance that the Federal Government will continue to do its best to meet its obligations under bilateral agreements with China for the development of critical infrastructure in Nigeria.
The President said that because of their importance to Nigeria, his administration will uphold contractual agreements with Chinese companies for the development of essential infrastructure which it inherited from past administrations, and work to ensure that the projects are speedily completed.
The President reiterated his particular commitment to the completion of the Mambilla Power Project which, he said, was of great strategic importance to his government's efforts to ensure that Nigeria does not become over-reliant on gas-powered electricity generation.
President Buhari commended the outgoing ambassadors for their efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and their countries during their tenure in Abuja.
He wished them well in their future endeavours.
Femi Adesina
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)
May 25, 2016
Why i am building an ecumenical centre - Governor Wike
Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has declared that he resolved to build a Christian Ecumenical Centre for the state as a thanksgiving to God for delivering him from the evil machinations of political opponents.
This is as the Primate of the Anglican Church in Nigeria, Most Reverend Nicholas Okoh commended the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike for putting God first by initiating the construction the State Ecumenical Centre, saying God will prosper the state going forward.
Speaking after Primate of the Anglican Church in Nigeria, Most Reverend Nicholas Okoh the laid the foundation stone for the Construction of State Ecumenical Centre, Governor Wike said that the Ecumenical Centre will be completed and commissioned within the scheduled time in 12 months.
He said: "This edifice will be completed and commissioned in 12 months. This is to thank God for his mercies. But for God, we would not be here.
"This project will be completed within scheduled time. It is crucial to me. If there is no money, I will look for money to complete this project. When enemies plotted against us, God stood with us and ensured that we emerged victorious " .He said Rivers State is a Christian State that will continue to look up to God for his guidance and blessings.
In his sermon, Primate of the Anglican Church in Nigeria, Most Reverend Nicholas Okoh said the construction of the State Ecumenical Centre is a step in the right direction, saying it calls for joy to the Glory of God.
He noted that it would bring fruitfulness to the state and engender answers to prayers.
He said: "Because you have put God first as symbolised by the foundation of the Ecumenical Centre, God will work with you and work for you. "
Also speaking, the Prelate of Methodist Church of Nigeria, Most Reverend Samuel Uche prayed for the unity of the church and God's grace for the completion of the project.
Special Adviser to the Rivers State Governor on Religious Matters, Bishop Wiston Iwoh stated that the Ecumenical Centre will help in enhancing the unity of Christian denominations in the state.
The event attracted Christian clerics from all the denominations of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN., in Rivers State.
Simeon Nwakaudu,
Special Assistant to the Rivers State Governor, Electronic Media.
25th May, 2016.
This is as the Primate of the Anglican Church in Nigeria, Most Reverend Nicholas Okoh commended the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike for putting God first by initiating the construction the State Ecumenical Centre, saying God will prosper the state going forward.
Speaking after Primate of the Anglican Church in Nigeria, Most Reverend Nicholas Okoh the laid the foundation stone for the Construction of State Ecumenical Centre, Governor Wike said that the Ecumenical Centre will be completed and commissioned within the scheduled time in 12 months.
He said: "This edifice will be completed and commissioned in 12 months. This is to thank God for his mercies. But for God, we would not be here.
"This project will be completed within scheduled time. It is crucial to me. If there is no money, I will look for money to complete this project. When enemies plotted against us, God stood with us and ensured that we emerged victorious " .He said Rivers State is a Christian State that will continue to look up to God for his guidance and blessings.
In his sermon, Primate of the Anglican Church in Nigeria, Most Reverend Nicholas Okoh said the construction of the State Ecumenical Centre is a step in the right direction, saying it calls for joy to the Glory of God.
He noted that it would bring fruitfulness to the state and engender answers to prayers.
He said: "Because you have put God first as symbolised by the foundation of the Ecumenical Centre, God will work with you and work for you. "
Also speaking, the Prelate of Methodist Church of Nigeria, Most Reverend Samuel Uche prayed for the unity of the church and God's grace for the completion of the project.
Special Adviser to the Rivers State Governor on Religious Matters, Bishop Wiston Iwoh stated that the Ecumenical Centre will help in enhancing the unity of Christian denominations in the state.
The event attracted Christian clerics from all the denominations of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN., in Rivers State.
Simeon Nwakaudu,
Special Assistant to the Rivers State Governor, Electronic Media.
25th May, 2016.
Wednesday 25 May 2016
Governor El-Rufai pays Fashola a courtesy visit in Abuja
Governor of Kaduna State,Mallam Nasir El-Rufai,today the 25th of May paid the Minister of Power, Works & Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola, SAN a courtesy visit in the Ministry at the Ministry of Power, Works and Housing Headquarters, Mabushi, Abuja.
It was gathered that he came to contribute and discuss with the planned developmental issues by the ministry.
It was gathered that he came to contribute and discuss with the planned developmental issues by the ministry.
Mikel Obi's girlfriend shows off her hot shape in new instagram photo
Olga Allegra took to her instagram to share a photo of herself looking so smart as she performs her fitness training.She captioned the photo,
"Outdoor workouts are always the best ⛅️🌳💪🏽 #fitness #outdoorgym #postpregnancy"
"Outdoor workouts are always the best ⛅️🌳💪🏽 #fitness #outdoorgym #postpregnancy"
Julius Agwu's kids rock Rivers state Cultural attire for their school African day
Comedian Julius Agwu shared some photos of his kids Princess ZAHRA and Prince ZADOK,rocking his state,Rivers state cultural attire to sch as the celebrate African day.The look so beautiful.
Bukola Gadzama covers TWMagazine May/June edition
Real Estate Mogul Bukola Gadzama covers Today's Woman Magazine May/June Issue.
Slot MD,NNamdi Ezeigbo and Brand Ambassador D'banj attend slot Academy and foundation inauguration
D'Banj who is the Slot communication brand ambassador and his Porche car given to him by the Slot managament were seen at the inauguration ceremony of Slot Academy and Slot Foundation today the 25th of May 2016.
Photo Credit:Videowheels
Photo Credit:Videowheels
Tonto Dike showers praises on her step Mum
Tonto Dikeh praised her step mum and thanked her for always being there for her and for being a caring big mum.Read what she wrote on instagram as she shared the group photo of her step mum,husband and step brother.
"My WCW goes to my Wonderful step ma,She happens to be the best mom ever.Never judging and ever ready to protect,Pray and love ..
Her devotion to the family is next to none,In a country were step moms are far from great she stands out heavy..I love u so much Mrs Dikeh Aka Big mummy/Mama..
Thank you for playing the mother role with a heart of gold and wanting nothing other than Greatness for all of us..Thank you for giving me the best brother any girl cld ask for (Pastor Tonye aka Boss).
Thank you for sharing your husband with Us and taking good care of him,I believe my mom appreciates you too..
Love you and God bless you continually ijn,Amen..
#Mom #WCW"
"My WCW goes to my Wonderful step ma,She happens to be the best mom ever.Never judging and ever ready to protect,Pray and love ..
Her devotion to the family is next to none,In a country were step moms are far from great she stands out heavy..I love u so much Mrs Dikeh Aka Big mummy/Mama..
Thank you for playing the mother role with a heart of gold and wanting nothing other than Greatness for all of us..Thank you for giving me the best brother any girl cld ask for (Pastor Tonye aka Boss).
Thank you for sharing your husband with Us and taking good care of him,I believe my mom appreciates you too..
Love you and God bless you continually ijn,Amen..
#Mom #WCW"
Granit Xhaka confirms playing for Arsenal next season.
Arsenal FC new signing Granit Xhaka took to his instagram account to share his happiness and willingness to play for Arsenal next season.He promised to use his skills to help the club win trophies especially the Premier league.He wrote,
"Now it’s official. From next season on I will play for @Arsenal. I want to thank everyone at @borussia. Together we brought the club back to where it belongs, to the Champions League. I will always look back with pleasure to that time. But from now on I’m totally focused on playing at one of the biggest clubs in the world. It's a big honour for me to wear the Arsenal jersey, as well as it has been an honour to play for Gladbach in the last four years. I hope we see each other again in the Champions League! ✊🙏🙌 #Xhaka #GX34 #PremierLeague #Thanks"
"Now it’s official. From next season on I will play for @Arsenal. I want to thank everyone at @borussia. Together we brought the club back to where it belongs, to the Champions League. I will always look back with pleasure to that time. But from now on I’m totally focused on playing at one of the biggest clubs in the world. It's a big honour for me to wear the Arsenal jersey, as well as it has been an honour to play for Gladbach in the last four years. I hope we see each other again in the Champions League! ✊🙏🙌 #Xhaka #GX34 #PremierLeague #Thanks"
Underboss of Luxury shop, Polo Avenue, Jennifer Obayuwana celebrates birthday
She calls her self the underboss of PoloLuxury. Jennifer Obayuwana celebrated her birthday some days back and it was well attended by her family and friends.Some pictures she shared on her instagram below,
Selana Gomez/Nicolas Ghesquiere cover Vogue Brazil new edition
Selane Gomez and Nicolas Ghesquiere are on the cover of Vogue Brazil latest issue.They both look beautiful.Another photo below,
Edo Government Confirms Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa as New Oba of Benin
The Edo State Government has confirmed His Royal majesty Edaiken N’Uselu, Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa as the new Oba of Benin. It was disclosed in a letter dated May 24, 2016, and signed by the Secretary to the State government, Prof Julius Omozuanvbo Ihonvbere, OON, the state backdated the appointment to April 29, 2016.
The letter reads “it is hereby notified for general information that in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 19 (1) of the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Law, 1979 (as amended) and by virtue of all other laws enabling it in that behalf, the Executive Council of the Edo State Government of Nigeria has approved the appointment of His Royal Highness Edaiken N’Uselu, Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa as the Oba of Benin, with effect from 29th day of April, 2016.”
The letter reads “it is hereby notified for general information that in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 19 (1) of the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Law, 1979 (as amended) and by virtue of all other laws enabling it in that behalf, the Executive Council of the Edo State Government of Nigeria has approved the appointment of His Royal Highness Edaiken N’Uselu, Crown Prince Eheneden Erediauwa as the Oba of Benin, with effect from 29th day of April, 2016.”
Governor El-Rufai Renames Kafanchan Hospital after late Governor Yakowa
Press statement from Kaduna Government House.
The General Hospital, Kafanchan has been renamed the Patrick Yakowa Hospital. A statement from the Kaduna State Government said that the State Executive Council decided to honour the late governor by naming the hospital after him.
“The Kaduna State Executive Council has approved the renaming of the Kafanchan General Hospital. The hospital will henceforth be known as Patrick Yakowa Hospital. This in honour of the service rendered to the state by the late Governor Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa.
“Governor Yakowa capped a distinguished career in public service with the two highest political offices in Kaduna State. He was Deputy Governor and then Governor, before his unfortunate demise in an helicopter crash.
“The general hospitals in the major cities in Kaduna State are named in honour of citizens who had made notable contributions to the state. The general hospital in Zaria bears the name of Hajiya Gambo Sawaba, an activist who fought for Nigeria’s independence. The eminent name of Dr. Barau Dikko, the first medical doctor from Northern Nigeria and first president of the Northern Peoples Congress, graces the hospital in Kaduna that was recently accredited as a teaching hospital.
“General hospitals in Kaduna are also named after the revered late Chief of Kagoro, Gwamna Awan, and Alhaji Yusuf Dantsoho, a respected public servant.
“The only exception to this naming trend among the general hospitals in the major cities of Kaduna, Kafanchan and Zaria is the one in Kafanchan. That has now been remedied by the action of the Kaduna State Executive Council.”
Signed
Samuel Aruwan
Special Assistant to the Governor (Media and Publicity)
24th May 2016
The General Hospital, Kafanchan has been renamed the Patrick Yakowa Hospital. A statement from the Kaduna State Government said that the State Executive Council decided to honour the late governor by naming the hospital after him.
“The Kaduna State Executive Council has approved the renaming of the Kafanchan General Hospital. The hospital will henceforth be known as Patrick Yakowa Hospital. This in honour of the service rendered to the state by the late Governor Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa.
“Governor Yakowa capped a distinguished career in public service with the two highest political offices in Kaduna State. He was Deputy Governor and then Governor, before his unfortunate demise in an helicopter crash.
“The general hospitals in the major cities in Kaduna State are named in honour of citizens who had made notable contributions to the state. The general hospital in Zaria bears the name of Hajiya Gambo Sawaba, an activist who fought for Nigeria’s independence. The eminent name of Dr. Barau Dikko, the first medical doctor from Northern Nigeria and first president of the Northern Peoples Congress, graces the hospital in Kaduna that was recently accredited as a teaching hospital.
“General hospitals in Kaduna are also named after the revered late Chief of Kagoro, Gwamna Awan, and Alhaji Yusuf Dantsoho, a respected public servant.
“The only exception to this naming trend among the general hospitals in the major cities of Kaduna, Kafanchan and Zaria is the one in Kafanchan. That has now been remedied by the action of the Kaduna State Executive Council.”
Signed
Samuel Aruwan
Special Assistant to the Governor (Media and Publicity)
24th May 2016
Sharon Osbourne Defends daughter Kelly Tweeting Phone Number of husband Ozzy’s Alleged Mistress
Sharon Osbourne comes to her daughter Kelly's defence on The Talk on Tuesday, May 24, after the tweeted out the phone number of her father Ozzy's alleged mistress, Michelle Pugh which led to their divorce.
The tweet was read out by Julie Chen read during the show, which reads: "Anyone looking for cheap chunky LOW-lights a blow out and a blowjob call +1(323) 928-2323."
Sharon wearing her wedding ring responded to the questions saying
"In cases like this, what can you do but laugh?"
"[Kelly's] so funny. She loves her mom. She loves her dad so much."
"I'm always proud of my girl. What are you going to be mad? She's an adult."
The tweet was read out by Julie Chen read during the show, which reads: "Anyone looking for cheap chunky LOW-lights a blow out and a blowjob call +1(323) 928-2323."
Sharon wearing her wedding ring responded to the questions saying
"In cases like this, what can you do but laugh?"
"[Kelly's] so funny. She loves her mom. She loves her dad so much."
"I'm always proud of my girl. What are you going to be mad? She's an adult."
Michael Jackson’s Daughter Paris Shows off her new tattoo in honor of her father
Michael Jackson’s Daughter Paris took to her instagram to show off her new tattoo in honor of her late father who is her hero.She wrote,
"The meaning of life is contained in every single expression of life. It is present in the infinity of forms and phenomena that exist in all of creation." Never forget your roots, and always be proud of where you came from.
"The meaning of life is contained in every single expression of life. It is present in the infinity of forms and phenomena that exist in all of creation." Never forget your roots, and always be proud of where you came from.
Senate President Saraki issues statement on the Sexual Harassment bill
Read the statement below,
"Today at the Nigerian Senate, we passed a Bill to Criminalize Sexual Harassment in Nigerian Universities for its Second Reading.
Many young Nigerian boys and girls suffer at the hands of lecturers, fellow students and those in administrative positions of power when they seek to further their education in our universities.
This bill, once passed and signed into law, will help stamp out all forms of harassment to make our schools more conducive for our students.
I can attest to the fact that I have received anonymous emails and messages urging the Senate to make sexual harassment in our universities a criminal offence. In this regard, as we have taken this pivotal step to get this bill off the ground, I enjoin members of the civil society and students across the country to join in the process to make sure that this bill is passed and signed, so that students can receive the protection and backing of the law as they pursue their education."
"Today at the Nigerian Senate, we passed a Bill to Criminalize Sexual Harassment in Nigerian Universities for its Second Reading.
Many young Nigerian boys and girls suffer at the hands of lecturers, fellow students and those in administrative positions of power when they seek to further their education in our universities.
This bill, once passed and signed into law, will help stamp out all forms of harassment to make our schools more conducive for our students.
I can attest to the fact that I have received anonymous emails and messages urging the Senate to make sexual harassment in our universities a criminal offence. In this regard, as we have taken this pivotal step to get this bill off the ground, I enjoin members of the civil society and students across the country to join in the process to make sure that this bill is passed and signed, so that students can receive the protection and backing of the law as they pursue their education."
Tuesday 24 May 2016
Open letter to President Buhari requesting for the release of Femi Fani Kayode
President Buhari
I still can't fathom the reason(s) or the pleasure you derive in imprisonment of the voices of the opposition.
There's no iota of integrity in your life and style of Governance. The UK affirmed how your election was fraudulently sponsored by funds stolen from different States, including my poor State, Ekiti. Yet, the accused are too sacred to be invited nor questioned by the EFCC, while you send PDP members to the prison. A man who stole an elephant, is calling a man who took a piece of meat, a thief!!!
It's amazing how a particular sum of money would be released to service providers, to render a particular service during election, (adverts, media publications, jingles etc) and a dumb government will be asking for the refund of such money! The money paid for airing of jingles on NTA and other government media houses, must need be refunded too!
Whoever burrowed President Buhari the money to purchase his nomination form is no Philanthropist but a smart thief, who stole from his state, trying to cover up his paths, offered to pay for the form to avoid crucifixion when our Sheriff ascends the throne.
Apparently, the President is fighting no corruption but the opposition, and the voices opposed to the maximum tyranny of this administration.
Glaringly, the President, knowing fully well that he was going to hike the price of fuel, embark on the dramatic return of Chibok girls in preparation for the one year anniversary, decided to incarcerate Femi Fanikayode, to avoid criticism.
This Government would have been popular, if it didn't embark on the abuse of humanity, incessant Persecution of voices opposed to the government, inhuman, insensitive and absolute wicked policies of the administration. There wouldn't have been anything to criticize by the opposition, if this government abodes by all promises made during the election.
I opined that the fear of criticism, feeling of insecurity, lack of integrity, fantastic level of corruption (as we've never witnessed in Nigeria) and dictatorial tendencies, are the reasons behind this fake and inglorious corruption war.
When the righteous rules, the people rejoice but when a wicked man is on the throne, the people gnash their teeth. Every time the Hausa/Fulani are at the helm of affairs, Nigerians weep, suffers and revolt ~~~~ Babangida, Abacha and Buhari!!! Why?
The President goofed by sending FFK to the Prison. Posterity shall judge all men, no matter the greatness, as I've never seen a powerful man, who God cannot arrest.
It's pertinent to note that the family of Babangida never recovered from the consequences of his wickedness after leaving Aso Rock, Abacha didn't even survive his. President Buhari, be cautious, God is watching, he's no respecter of any man.
#freeffktoday
Culled from Ayodelefayoseorganization facebook page.
I still can't fathom the reason(s) or the pleasure you derive in imprisonment of the voices of the opposition.
There's no iota of integrity in your life and style of Governance. The UK affirmed how your election was fraudulently sponsored by funds stolen from different States, including my poor State, Ekiti. Yet, the accused are too sacred to be invited nor questioned by the EFCC, while you send PDP members to the prison. A man who stole an elephant, is calling a man who took a piece of meat, a thief!!!
It's amazing how a particular sum of money would be released to service providers, to render a particular service during election, (adverts, media publications, jingles etc) and a dumb government will be asking for the refund of such money! The money paid for airing of jingles on NTA and other government media houses, must need be refunded too!
Whoever burrowed President Buhari the money to purchase his nomination form is no Philanthropist but a smart thief, who stole from his state, trying to cover up his paths, offered to pay for the form to avoid crucifixion when our Sheriff ascends the throne.
Apparently, the President is fighting no corruption but the opposition, and the voices opposed to the maximum tyranny of this administration.
Glaringly, the President, knowing fully well that he was going to hike the price of fuel, embark on the dramatic return of Chibok girls in preparation for the one year anniversary, decided to incarcerate Femi Fanikayode, to avoid criticism.
This Government would have been popular, if it didn't embark on the abuse of humanity, incessant Persecution of voices opposed to the government, inhuman, insensitive and absolute wicked policies of the administration. There wouldn't have been anything to criticize by the opposition, if this government abodes by all promises made during the election.
I opined that the fear of criticism, feeling of insecurity, lack of integrity, fantastic level of corruption (as we've never witnessed in Nigeria) and dictatorial tendencies, are the reasons behind this fake and inglorious corruption war.
When the righteous rules, the people rejoice but when a wicked man is on the throne, the people gnash their teeth. Every time the Hausa/Fulani are at the helm of affairs, Nigerians weep, suffers and revolt ~~~~ Babangida, Abacha and Buhari!!! Why?
The President goofed by sending FFK to the Prison. Posterity shall judge all men, no matter the greatness, as I've never seen a powerful man, who God cannot arrest.
It's pertinent to note that the family of Babangida never recovered from the consequences of his wickedness after leaving Aso Rock, Abacha didn't even survive his. President Buhari, be cautious, God is watching, he's no respecter of any man.
#freeffktoday
Culled from Ayodelefayoseorganization facebook page.
Rotimi Amaechi begs Nigerians to be patient with President Buhari
The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, on Tuesday appealed to Nigerians to be patient and give the Muhammadu Buhari administration more time to achieve its objectives.
Making the appeal while answering questions at the forum of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Mr. Amaechi said.
“We encountered challenges; were we expecting to encounter those challenges? yes; did we think that we will meet the quantum or volume of those challenges?
“We didn’t anticipate that things were this bad. We thought you go to government and there would be money for you to run government and others.
“Now you have the situation where there is no money to run government. I hate to use the word difficult; I hate to use the word impossible but we met things close to difficult and impossibility.
“That is why Nigerians are impatient; they want to see results and for them, change is not about change in structure, it is about change in their pocket.
“Because their pocket is getting dried and they wanted us to put some more resources in their pocket.
“Because of the structural changes that we want to put in place is not getting all that they want to get.
“What I usually say to people is that we beg you to give us time; we will achieve our objective if you give us time and we will both thank God for that opportunity.’’
He gave an assurance that money recovered from the ongoing corruption fight, would be used to provide infrastructure.
According to him, the government has started paying contractors not appointed by the current administration, noting that such action represents service delivery to the people.
Source: (NAN)
Making the appeal while answering questions at the forum of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Mr. Amaechi said.
“We encountered challenges; were we expecting to encounter those challenges? yes; did we think that we will meet the quantum or volume of those challenges?
“We didn’t anticipate that things were this bad. We thought you go to government and there would be money for you to run government and others.
“Now you have the situation where there is no money to run government. I hate to use the word difficult; I hate to use the word impossible but we met things close to difficult and impossibility.
“That is why Nigerians are impatient; they want to see results and for them, change is not about change in structure, it is about change in their pocket.
“Because their pocket is getting dried and they wanted us to put some more resources in their pocket.
“Because of the structural changes that we want to put in place is not getting all that they want to get.
“What I usually say to people is that we beg you to give us time; we will achieve our objective if you give us time and we will both thank God for that opportunity.’’
He gave an assurance that money recovered from the ongoing corruption fight, would be used to provide infrastructure.
According to him, the government has started paying contractors not appointed by the current administration, noting that such action represents service delivery to the people.
Source: (NAN)
Oni of ife Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi pays Atiku courtesy visit (Photo)
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar was visited by the Oni of Ife,Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi at his home.Atiku shared the photo on facebook stating how delighted he was for the royal visit by the Oba.
Miss Joy one of the victims of the Peace Mass transport bus accident
This is the picture of one of the victims of the fatal accident that occured on Sunday along Umuahia -okigwe express involving a Peace Mass Transport bus and a truck where almost all the passengers lost their lives and some still in coma.
Her friend Ruth Emiratebaby Chidimma shared her picture on facebook and wrote,
She was among d passengers in that Peace MAss Transit bus dat had accident at Nkpa Junction along Umuahia Okigwe axis of the Enugu/PH Express road on sunday.
Miss Joy may ur soul RIP..... Amen! — feeling sad
Her friend Ruth Emiratebaby Chidimma shared her picture on facebook and wrote,
She was among d passengers in that Peace MAss Transit bus dat had accident at Nkpa Junction along Umuahia Okigwe axis of the Enugu/PH Express road on sunday.
Miss Joy may ur soul RIP..... Amen! — feeling sad
I will privatize Imo State University if lectures fail to call off Strike - Gov. Rochas Okorocha
Imo State governor Owelle Rochas Okorocha while speaking in Owerri yesterday about the current strike action by workers and lecturers of Imo state University,has threatened to privatize the state owned university if its workers fail to go back to classroom and call off their strike.Saying it is just a sabotage to bring to an end his Free education for all students.
His statements,
"A comparative analysis has been made with other state universities in the South-East zone and it was discovered that Imo pays far more than other states.
IMSU workers only argued that the institution offers qualitative studies than the other state-owned universities in the South-East. I have discovered that most IMSU lecturers are not happy with the free education programme of my administration. They want it to fail.
Perhaps, they want the students to pay school fees and this is not what I am prepared to accommodate. Honestly, if they fail to call off the strike, I will hire new teachers and concession the university to any willing investor, in the interest of our children."
CC.Instablog.
His statements,
"A comparative analysis has been made with other state universities in the South-East zone and it was discovered that Imo pays far more than other states.
IMSU workers only argued that the institution offers qualitative studies than the other state-owned universities in the South-East. I have discovered that most IMSU lecturers are not happy with the free education programme of my administration. They want it to fail.
Perhaps, they want the students to pay school fees and this is not what I am prepared to accommodate. Honestly, if they fail to call off the strike, I will hire new teachers and concession the university to any willing investor, in the interest of our children."
CC.Instablog.
UNICEF unveils new education fund
United Nations, May 23, 2016 (NAN) The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on Monday announced the launch of a new fund to better coordinate support for and drive investment in education for children and youth affected by humanitarian emergencies and protracted crises.
The ``Education Cannot Wait'' fund has a funding target of 3.85 billion dollars over five years.
It aims to bridge the gap between humanitarian interventions during crises and long-term development afterwards, through predictable funding.
UN Special Envoy for Global Education, Gordon Brown, presented the new fund at the World Humanitarian Summit (WHS), a two-day conference that opened in Istanbul, Turkey.
He said ``action now has to happen urgently because of the sheer scale of numbers of children impacted.''
Specifically designed for education in emergencies, the fund, he added, also aims to reach more than 13.6 million children and youth living in crisis situations, such as conflict, natural disasters and disease outbreaks, with quality education over the next five years.
``These young people are missing out on schooling and this is becoming a full-blown global crisis that will haunt the world for generations,” Brown said.
On average, the UN estimates that less than two per cent of humanitarian aid currently goes to funding education.
Moreover, the UN says, education systems equipped to cope with protracted crises cannot be built on the foundations of short-term and unpredictable appeals.
Meanwhile, UNICEF warns that one in four of the world’s school-aged children – nearly half a billion, live in countries affected by crises and that as many as 476 million children and young people between the ages of three and 18 live in 35 countries affected by crises.
It says 80 million of them have had their education disrupted or destroyed by emergencies and protracted crises and over 16 million are in refugee, internally displaced and other populations of concern in these same affected countries.
UNICEF added that the situation for girls is even worse.
The UN also said that less than two per cent of all humanitarian funding goes to education every year since 2010, with a current estimated 9 billion dollar gap for education in emergencies annually.
UN also added that conflict, natural disasters, displacement, epidemics and other crises pose a serious threat to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for education. (NAN)
The ``Education Cannot Wait'' fund has a funding target of 3.85 billion dollars over five years.
It aims to bridge the gap between humanitarian interventions during crises and long-term development afterwards, through predictable funding.
UN Special Envoy for Global Education, Gordon Brown, presented the new fund at the World Humanitarian Summit (WHS), a two-day conference that opened in Istanbul, Turkey.
He said ``action now has to happen urgently because of the sheer scale of numbers of children impacted.''
Specifically designed for education in emergencies, the fund, he added, also aims to reach more than 13.6 million children and youth living in crisis situations, such as conflict, natural disasters and disease outbreaks, with quality education over the next five years.
``These young people are missing out on schooling and this is becoming a full-blown global crisis that will haunt the world for generations,” Brown said.
On average, the UN estimates that less than two per cent of humanitarian aid currently goes to funding education.
Moreover, the UN says, education systems equipped to cope with protracted crises cannot be built on the foundations of short-term and unpredictable appeals.
Meanwhile, UNICEF warns that one in four of the world’s school-aged children – nearly half a billion, live in countries affected by crises and that as many as 476 million children and young people between the ages of three and 18 live in 35 countries affected by crises.
It says 80 million of them have had their education disrupted or destroyed by emergencies and protracted crises and over 16 million are in refugee, internally displaced and other populations of concern in these same affected countries.
UNICEF added that the situation for girls is even worse.
The UN also said that less than two per cent of all humanitarian funding goes to education every year since 2010, with a current estimated 9 billion dollar gap for education in emergencies annually.
UN also added that conflict, natural disasters, displacement, epidemics and other crises pose a serious threat to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for education. (NAN)
Blac Chyna shares ultrasound photo of her pregnancy with fiancee Rob Kardashian
Never give up & ALWAYS have faith because fairytales DO come True was the summary of her write-up after she shared an ultra sound scan photo of her pregnancy with Rob Kardashian.
"For a long time I felt like King was going to be an only child. That he was my greatest blessing and we were gonna live happily ever after together Just the 2 of us, I was no longer looking for love because I thought I had all that I needed. We needed. But look at God ! Here I am Engaged to be married to one of the greatest men I know who loves King & I unconditionally AND having another bundle of joy! I just want to say Never give up & ALWAYS have faith because fairytales DO come True #LookAtOurLittleNugget #KingsGoingToBeABigBrother"
"For a long time I felt like King was going to be an only child. That he was my greatest blessing and we were gonna live happily ever after together Just the 2 of us, I was no longer looking for love because I thought I had all that I needed. We needed. But look at God ! Here I am Engaged to be married to one of the greatest men I know who loves King & I unconditionally AND having another bundle of joy! I just want to say Never give up & ALWAYS have faith because fairytales DO come True #LookAtOurLittleNugget #KingsGoingToBeABigBrother"
Every 23rd of May has been named Beyonce's day in Minnesota
Yes the state of Minnesota in the United States of America has named every 23rd day of May as Beyonce's day.This is to immortalize the singer's contribution to the music industry.
Jonathan Calls THISDAY from Cote d‘Ivoire, Says I’m Not in Exile
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has reacted t THISDAY’s monday report that he had gone on exile in Cote d’Ivoire.He however confirmed that he was indeed in the West African country, but was not in exile.
Speaking exclusively to THISDAY on the phone monday, the former president confirmed that he had been out of the country for over a month, revealing that he travelled to some cities in the United States of America, then departed the country for London before arriving Cote d’Ivoire via Paris.
When reminded that THISDAY had tried to reach him several times last week to verify allegations that he was in exile, he said: “So what… I am not in exile. I am here resting.”
He said: “Yes I am in Cote d’Ivoire, I have been here for a week resting and this is my second trip to the country since I stepped down as president.”
He maintained however that he was not in exile because he had no reason to leave Nigeria as he had done his best for his country as president.
“I have made sacrifices for Nigeria. I am praised all over Africa for averting bloodshed and for the peaceful transition from one government to another, but it seems Nigeria does not appreciate my efforts.
“I have done my best for this country and if I have to die for it, I will do so. However, I am taking it easy here (Cote d’Ivoire) and when I am ready, I will come back,” he said.
Culled from ThisDay
Speaking exclusively to THISDAY on the phone monday, the former president confirmed that he had been out of the country for over a month, revealing that he travelled to some cities in the United States of America, then departed the country for London before arriving Cote d’Ivoire via Paris.
When reminded that THISDAY had tried to reach him several times last week to verify allegations that he was in exile, he said: “So what… I am not in exile. I am here resting.”
He said: “Yes I am in Cote d’Ivoire, I have been here for a week resting and this is my second trip to the country since I stepped down as president.”
He maintained however that he was not in exile because he had no reason to leave Nigeria as he had done his best for his country as president.
“I have made sacrifices for Nigeria. I am praised all over Africa for averting bloodshed and for the peaceful transition from one government to another, but it seems Nigeria does not appreciate my efforts.
“I have done my best for this country and if I have to die for it, I will do so. However, I am taking it easy here (Cote d’Ivoire) and when I am ready, I will come back,” he said.
Culled from ThisDay
Arsenal player Alexis Sanchez flies with dog in a private Jet (Photo)
When you are big your big.Arsenal forward Alexis Sanches was pictured flying a private jet with his dog.
Life expectancy increased by 5 years since 2000 - World health organization
The world health organization has confirmed that the life expectancy rate has increased by 5 years.Dramatic gains in life expectancy have been made globally since 2000, but major inequalities persist within and among countries, according to this year’s “World Health Statistics: Monitoring Health for the SDGs.
Nigeria is among the seven countries with the lowest rate with an average of 54.5 years for both men and women.Angola is 52.4,Lesotho is 53.7.
“The world has made great strides in reducing the needless suffering and premature deaths that arise from preventable and treatable diseases,” said Dr Margaret Chan, Director-General of WHO. “But the gains have been uneven. Supporting countries to move towards universal health coverage based on strong primary care is the best thing we can do to make sure no-one is left behind.”
Nigeria is among the seven countries with the lowest rate with an average of 54.5 years for both men and women.Angola is 52.4,Lesotho is 53.7.
“The world has made great strides in reducing the needless suffering and premature deaths that arise from preventable and treatable diseases,” said Dr Margaret Chan, Director-General of WHO. “But the gains have been uneven. Supporting countries to move towards universal health coverage based on strong primary care is the best thing we can do to make sure no-one is left behind.”
Tiwa and son Jamil goes to Dubai
Mavin diav Tiwa Sagave and her son with estranged husband Jamil,goes to Dubai.The singer shared the photo on her instagram page.Beautiful people.Another photo below,
Monday 23 May 2016
KWAM1's celebrates son Mustapha as he returns with degree certificates & Canadian citizenship
Juju music singer,King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal also known as KWAM 1 today took to his instagram page to celebrate his son,Mustapha adetunji that returned to Nigeria and presented him with his Canadian passport and degree certificate.The happy father could not withhold his joy that he shared the photo on instagram wishing his son well.
"Also today, My son Mustapha adetunji ayinde marshal came to present to Me his degree certificate from York University in Toronto, with his Canadian citizenship certificate and passport, I pray him that so shall his children make him happy. Ameen"
"Also today, My son Mustapha adetunji ayinde marshal came to present to Me his degree certificate from York University in Toronto, with his Canadian citizenship certificate and passport, I pray him that so shall his children make him happy. Ameen"
Photos:President Buhari receives Governor of Ogun state,Senator Ibikunle Amosun at the State House
His trip to lagos on a state working visit scheduled for today the 23rd of May was cancelled because of some ear infection according to a report by SaharaReporters.More photos below,
Ali Modu Sheriff's removal in the best interest of PDP- Gov. Fayose
Press statement from Governor of Ekiti State Ayodele Fayose.
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose has said the former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ali Modu Sheriff-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the party was dissolved and caretaker committee appointed at the last Saturday National Convention held in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State to save the party.
The governor said even though he was one of those who supported the former chairman, he had no option than to support his removal so as to forestall disintegration of the party, adding that; “We cannot sacrifice the party for any individual.”
Special Assistant to the governor on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, in a release issued in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, urged Sheriff to accept his removal in good faith and join others to build the party.
The governor said; “I supported Senator Ali Modu Sheriff in good conscience. But when it became obvious that his continuous stay in office as the National Chairman will jeopardise the collective interest of the party, I had no option than to support his removal.
“To me, the general interest of the party overrides that of any individual and there is no how I can stand in support of any plan to sacrifice the party for any individual.
“Anyone whose ambition threatens the collective interest of the party should be removed to save the party and that’s exactly what we have done.
“I therefore urge Senator Ali Modu Sheriff to accept the dissolution of the NWC and appointment of the Senator Ahmed Makarfi-led Caretaker Committee in good faith and cooperate with other well-meaning members of the party to reposition it so as to achieve the much needed electoral victory in 2019.
“To Sheriff and other well-meaning members of the party, what should be important is the party and not the individual and no sacrifice should be too much for anyone to make for the party at this time.”
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose has said the former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ali Modu Sheriff-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the party was dissolved and caretaker committee appointed at the last Saturday National Convention held in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State to save the party.
The governor said even though he was one of those who supported the former chairman, he had no option than to support his removal so as to forestall disintegration of the party, adding that; “We cannot sacrifice the party for any individual.”
Special Assistant to the governor on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, in a release issued in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, urged Sheriff to accept his removal in good faith and join others to build the party.
The governor said; “I supported Senator Ali Modu Sheriff in good conscience. But when it became obvious that his continuous stay in office as the National Chairman will jeopardise the collective interest of the party, I had no option than to support his removal.
“To me, the general interest of the party overrides that of any individual and there is no how I can stand in support of any plan to sacrifice the party for any individual.
“Anyone whose ambition threatens the collective interest of the party should be removed to save the party and that’s exactly what we have done.
“I therefore urge Senator Ali Modu Sheriff to accept the dissolution of the NWC and appointment of the Senator Ahmed Makarfi-led Caretaker Committee in good faith and cooperate with other well-meaning members of the party to reposition it so as to achieve the much needed electoral victory in 2019.
“To Sheriff and other well-meaning members of the party, what should be important is the party and not the individual and no sacrifice should be too much for anyone to make for the party at this time.”
Threaten public peace in the FCT and be firmly dealt with - IGP warns factional PDP party loyalists
PRESS RELEASE
THREATEN PUBLIC PEACE IN THE FCT AND BE FIRMLY DEALT WITH – IGP SOLOMON ARASE WARNS FACTIONAL PARTY LOYALISTS OF THE PDP
Intelligence at the disposal of the Force leadership indicates that some aggrieved factional leaders and members of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) have perfected plans to engage thugs from across the country to join them in threatening public peace and security in Abuja. This is sequel to the on-going intra-party leadership crisis in the party and further fallout of the recent political engagements of the Party.
The plan of the brains behind this development is to infiltrate Abuja and attack the National Headquarters of the Peoples’ Democratic Party with intent to forcefully occupy the facility. Towards perfecting this criminality, credible Police sources confirm that the actors will mobilise into Abuja with effect from Monday 23rd May 2016 and they intend to march through major streets in Abuja before proceeding to the PDP Secretariat to manifest their intention.
Consequently, the Inspector-General of Police has directed the deployment of Police assets to secure the PDP Secretariat and protect the staff until the threat to internal security that is being occasioned by the intra-party crisis within the PDP is stabilised.
The police action is a proactive initiative which is being emplaced in furtherance to the statutory Mandate of the Nigeria Police to prevent breakdown in law and order and protect lives and property.
The Inspector General of Police, however, warns all actors in the crisis as well as their loyalists to refrain from any act that may threaten public order as the Police shall deal promptly, firmly and decisively with such persons or group in line with their legal obligations.
ACP OLABISI KOLAWOLE
FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
FORCE HEADQUARTERS,
ABUJA.
THREATEN PUBLIC PEACE IN THE FCT AND BE FIRMLY DEALT WITH – IGP SOLOMON ARASE WARNS FACTIONAL PARTY LOYALISTS OF THE PDP
Intelligence at the disposal of the Force leadership indicates that some aggrieved factional leaders and members of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) have perfected plans to engage thugs from across the country to join them in threatening public peace and security in Abuja. This is sequel to the on-going intra-party leadership crisis in the party and further fallout of the recent political engagements of the Party.
The plan of the brains behind this development is to infiltrate Abuja and attack the National Headquarters of the Peoples’ Democratic Party with intent to forcefully occupy the facility. Towards perfecting this criminality, credible Police sources confirm that the actors will mobilise into Abuja with effect from Monday 23rd May 2016 and they intend to march through major streets in Abuja before proceeding to the PDP Secretariat to manifest their intention.
Consequently, the Inspector-General of Police has directed the deployment of Police assets to secure the PDP Secretariat and protect the staff until the threat to internal security that is being occasioned by the intra-party crisis within the PDP is stabilised.
The police action is a proactive initiative which is being emplaced in furtherance to the statutory Mandate of the Nigeria Police to prevent breakdown in law and order and protect lives and property.
The Inspector General of Police, however, warns all actors in the crisis as well as their loyalists to refrain from any act that may threaten public order as the Police shall deal promptly, firmly and decisively with such persons or group in line with their legal obligations.
ACP OLABISI KOLAWOLE
FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
FORCE HEADQUARTERS,
ABUJA.
Ogoni land pollution a tragedy that shouldn’t have happened -- Minister Mrs Amina Mohammed
Abuja, May 23, 2016 (NAN) The Federal Government says the pollution of Ogoniland via oil exploration is a tragedy that ``should never have happened''.
The Minister of Environment, Mrs Amina Mohammed, said this when she featured on the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum in Abuja.
Mohammed, who was speaking on the expected clean-up of Ogoniland, explained that the exercise would begin in a couple weeks.
• Cue in audio 1 (Mrs Mohammed on Ogoniland pollution)
``I think that the expectations are very high. For many, many years, the people in Ogoni land have suffered and struggled to try to begin the implementation of the UNEP report.
``If you are living there, you would understand that this is a tragedy and it is something that should have never happened.
``So, it is urgent that we do something about it.
``However, if we want to begin a process of clean-up, what we put in place to ensure that it is sustainable and that we are clean after the clean-up, requires a lot of buy-in.
``It requires us to talk to communities, to key stakeholders to make sure that they are all on board so that once we launch, it is question of going along that road map, remembering that the clean-up in Ogoniland is going to take up 20 to 25 years.
``The damage there is considerable. It is not something that can be fixed overnight.
``So, that launch will take place in the next couple of weeks.’’
• Cue out audio 1
Speaking on the Paris Climate Change Agreement, the minister said that Nigeria was yet to ratify the document as there were a number of issues that needed to be addressed before the signing of the agreement.
• Cue in audio 2 (Mrs Mohammed on agreement)
``We believe in the climate change agreement, but we also know that we have a year to sign.
``We also know that there are many issues here (in Nigeria) that we ought to address before we go to sign and ratify an agreement externally.
``The change in the way this administration is approaching, we need to be in charge of our destiny.
``I think that this is something that we do not bring a prescription to Nigeria; we’d have discussions with key stakeholders and say that this is the implications.
``And the time frame that was given for us to do that was short and we felt that we needed to take a decision that we can do this in a much more inclusive way.
``And by the time we go back before the year is up, hopefully by September.
``That if we are signing and ratifying, then we are committed to a number of actions and investments, which will then yield results in our implementation.’’
• Cue out audio 2
NAN reports that 176 countries have so far ratified the agreement.
Amina disclosed that there would be a breakfast meeting among all key ministers and partners next to discuss the agreement.
She added that the meeting would examine what the country stood to benefit from agreement and chart way forward its implementation, if ratified.
``Next week, we will be having a breakfast meeting that will include all the key ministers and our partners so that we can look at what we got out of Paris.’’
According to her, the meetings will continue over the next six months to make sure that we can turn the intended national commitments into national commitments and implementation plan.
``This is important because we need buying in and we need to integrate it into our own national plan, it must not be something we take from outside.
``It needs to be an integral part of what is important to us. We have to be in the driving seat, determining our priority for climate change.’’
Mohammed said that the ministry was creating a new narrative in line with President Muhammadu Buhari change mantra. (NAN)
The Minister of Environment, Mrs Amina Mohammed, said this when she featured on the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum in Abuja.
Mohammed, who was speaking on the expected clean-up of Ogoniland, explained that the exercise would begin in a couple weeks.
• Cue in audio 1 (Mrs Mohammed on Ogoniland pollution)
``I think that the expectations are very high. For many, many years, the people in Ogoni land have suffered and struggled to try to begin the implementation of the UNEP report.
``If you are living there, you would understand that this is a tragedy and it is something that should have never happened.
``So, it is urgent that we do something about it.
``However, if we want to begin a process of clean-up, what we put in place to ensure that it is sustainable and that we are clean after the clean-up, requires a lot of buy-in.
``It requires us to talk to communities, to key stakeholders to make sure that they are all on board so that once we launch, it is question of going along that road map, remembering that the clean-up in Ogoniland is going to take up 20 to 25 years.
``The damage there is considerable. It is not something that can be fixed overnight.
``So, that launch will take place in the next couple of weeks.’’
• Cue out audio 1
Speaking on the Paris Climate Change Agreement, the minister said that Nigeria was yet to ratify the document as there were a number of issues that needed to be addressed before the signing of the agreement.
• Cue in audio 2 (Mrs Mohammed on agreement)
``We believe in the climate change agreement, but we also know that we have a year to sign.
``We also know that there are many issues here (in Nigeria) that we ought to address before we go to sign and ratify an agreement externally.
``The change in the way this administration is approaching, we need to be in charge of our destiny.
``I think that this is something that we do not bring a prescription to Nigeria; we’d have discussions with key stakeholders and say that this is the implications.
``And the time frame that was given for us to do that was short and we felt that we needed to take a decision that we can do this in a much more inclusive way.
``And by the time we go back before the year is up, hopefully by September.
``That if we are signing and ratifying, then we are committed to a number of actions and investments, which will then yield results in our implementation.’’
• Cue out audio 2
NAN reports that 176 countries have so far ratified the agreement.
Amina disclosed that there would be a breakfast meeting among all key ministers and partners next to discuss the agreement.
She added that the meeting would examine what the country stood to benefit from agreement and chart way forward its implementation, if ratified.
``Next week, we will be having a breakfast meeting that will include all the key ministers and our partners so that we can look at what we got out of Paris.’’
According to her, the meetings will continue over the next six months to make sure that we can turn the intended national commitments into national commitments and implementation plan.
``This is important because we need buying in and we need to integrate it into our own national plan, it must not be something we take from outside.
``It needs to be an integral part of what is important to us. We have to be in the driving seat, determining our priority for climate change.’’
Mohammed said that the ministry was creating a new narrative in line with President Muhammadu Buhari change mantra. (NAN)
More Photos from the 2016 Billboard awards in Las vegas
Russell Wilson and Finacee Ciara attended the 2016 Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada (May 22, 2016) more pictures below.
Ciara reveals side boobs at the 2016 Billboards music awards
Ciara showed off her side boobs with her attire as she attends the 2016 Billboard music award.A close photo of Ciara below,
Unbelievable: Akwa Ibom monarch’s wife gives birth in kidnappers’ den
Mrs Ubong Assam, the wife of the traditional ruler of Esit Eket in Akwa Ibom, was delivered of a baby girl on Friday, May 13, while in custody of her kidnappers.
A family source, who pleaded anonymity, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), in Esit Eket, Esit Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom, on Saturday that the monarch’s wife gave birth to the baby in an unknown hideout of her abductors
NAN recalls that the kidnappers abducted the traditional ruler’s wife and her four children in the Akpautong neighbourhood of Esit Eket on April 29.
The source said that the kidnappers quickly released the woman and her four children due to the birth of the baby in their den.
Reacting to the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in Akwa Ibom, ASP Cordelia Nwawe, said that the command expressed appreciation to God for the safe delivery of the monarch’s wife.
She, nonetheless, said that the command had yet to receive any information about the release of the kidnapped woman and her four children.
NAN, however, reports that the traditional ruler’s wife and her four children were released on May 14.
A family source, who pleaded anonymity, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), in Esit Eket, Esit Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom, on Saturday that the monarch’s wife gave birth to the baby in an unknown hideout of her abductors
NAN recalls that the kidnappers abducted the traditional ruler’s wife and her four children in the Akpautong neighbourhood of Esit Eket on April 29.
The source said that the kidnappers quickly released the woman and her four children due to the birth of the baby in their den.
Reacting to the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in Akwa Ibom, ASP Cordelia Nwawe, said that the command expressed appreciation to God for the safe delivery of the monarch’s wife.
She, nonetheless, said that the command had yet to receive any information about the release of the kidnapped woman and her four children.
NAN, however, reports that the traditional ruler’s wife and her four children were released on May 14.
Seyi Law apologizes for slapping an Eko Hotel security guard three times
Comedian Seyi Law was accused of slapping an Eko Hotel Security guard which he has reacted and admitted and apologiszed so case close.Oga security guard sorry.His apology note below,
"I am not writing to defend a mistake I made, but so people would know that I am also prone to faults. However, I will oblige you with my own side of the story. The Kiss Daniel's Album Launch show ended and I got in my car to drive out like everyone when I got to the security guy who directed me to the other gate which I did. I got to the gate and was asked to go and take the main gate, driving back, I stopped by the security guy and told him, "make una dey follow una selves talk na, you dey direct us go there, another person dey direct us back" and his response was, " how many people don turn back", looking away.
I replied him that even if I was the only person, I no reach to tell you and he said, abeg dey go jor. I was shocked, I said so I not fit follow you talk and he said, dey go. I looked and saw another security not far off and decided to get down from my car to talk with him, unfortunately, as I opened my car, this security guy pushed the door back at me, hitting my leg, I would not know his reason for this, but it got me angry and I slapped him thrice as I got down.
I know Eko Hotel has CCTV and if there was any around there, they can release the footage(s). I am not justifying my anger and reaction, but please pardon my behaviour. I duly apologise for the action I took. Thanks for reading.
SEYILAW"
"I am not writing to defend a mistake I made, but so people would know that I am also prone to faults. However, I will oblige you with my own side of the story. The Kiss Daniel's Album Launch show ended and I got in my car to drive out like everyone when I got to the security guy who directed me to the other gate which I did. I got to the gate and was asked to go and take the main gate, driving back, I stopped by the security guy and told him, "make una dey follow una selves talk na, you dey direct us go there, another person dey direct us back" and his response was, " how many people don turn back", looking away.
I replied him that even if I was the only person, I no reach to tell you and he said, abeg dey go jor. I was shocked, I said so I not fit follow you talk and he said, dey go. I looked and saw another security not far off and decided to get down from my car to talk with him, unfortunately, as I opened my car, this security guy pushed the door back at me, hitting my leg, I would not know his reason for this, but it got me angry and I slapped him thrice as I got down.
I know Eko Hotel has CCTV and if there was any around there, they can release the footage(s). I am not justifying my anger and reaction, but please pardon my behaviour. I duly apologise for the action I took. Thanks for reading.
SEYILAW"
Mezut Ozil arrive Mecca for prayers.
German international and Arsenal star departed the Dubai on Sunday for Saudi Arabia where he landed in Mecca to pray.I am sure he is praying for Allah to make Arsenal his team lift the EPL next season.LOL.His caption " #Mecca #HolyCity #SaudiArabia #Islam #Pray"
Photo of when he was leaving Dubai in a private jet below.
Photo of when he was leaving Dubai in a private jet below.
Kim Kardashian and hubby Kanye West attend Opera in Rome
The KUWTK star shared a snap chap video of herself, husband kanye West and family friend Valentino,as they attend the opening night of Sofia Coppola's production of La Traviata at the Opera of Rome on Sunday, May 22.She dazzled in a white gown with a waist-high side slit revealing a little more than she intended. rapper hubby attended the
The production features costumes designed by Valentino.More pictures below,
The production features costumes designed by Valentino.More pictures below,
Comedian Julius Agwu shares adorable family photo as they prepare for church
The Comedian shared the photo on instagram of his pretty wife,Ibiere and kids as they prepare to go to church.But Julius Agwu is short oh....
Comedian AY's shares surelere and recent photo of himself
Change is the only constant thing in life.The comedian shared the photo on instagram and captioned it "Metamorphosis"
Sunday 22 May 2016
The Niger Delta Avengers - Article by Reuben Abati
Enjoy a constructive article by Reuben Abati on his website,
Niger Delta Avengers is the name of a new group of militants in the Niger Delta who claim to be different from the former agitators and militants who operated between 2006 and 2009, largely under the umbrella of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND). The title of this group may well serve as the thematic and definitive umbrella for the resurgence of low-level insurgency in the Niger Delta, for in the last month alone, more groups have joined the NDA to wage war against oil installations, the Buhari government, and the Nigerian state. These include the Isoko Liberation Movement and the Red Egbesu Water Lions. The groups are working in concert with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) led by detained Nnamdi Kanu.
The NDA runs a website (created in February 2016) where it posts news items and statements; and in terms of rhetoric, and activities, there is no doubt that the various groups are indeed on “a vengeance mission”. They are angry over what they consider the continued marginalization of the Niger Delta, the unjust allocation of oil mining licenses to persons from non-oil producing areas, the hounding of officials and associates of the Jonathan administration by the present administration (hence General Torunanawei, coordinator of the Red Egbesu Water Lions issues a seven-day ultimatum calling for the release of Colonel Sambo Dasuki, and the de-freezing of the accounts of ex-militant leader Government Ekpemupolo). There is also some concern about environmental pollution, the scrapping of the Maritime University at Okerenkoko and undisguised discontent with the Buhari administration.
More than any of the emergent groups, the Niger Delta Avengers have used their online resources to articulate the basis of this vengeance mission in such posts as “Operation Red Economy”, “We shall do whatever is necessary to protect the Niger Delta interest” and “Keep your threat to yourself, Mr. President”. Their statements are written in halting, extremely poor English, but their various strike teams, which they boast about, have proven to be deadly through recent attacks on oil infrastructure creating a global oil supply crisis, and bringing down Nigeria’s daily oil production from 2.2 million barrels to just about 1.4 million.
Shell has had to shut down its Forcados terminal. Chevron’s Escravos operation has been breached. ENI and Exxon Mobil have declared “force majeure”. Shell and Chevron are moving their staff out of the Niger Delta. The avengers claim they are not into kidnapping, or the killing of people and soldiers, but no one is sure yet about the depth and extent of this new phase of Niger Delta insurgency, and of course, the oil and gas multinationals have since learnt not to trust either the Nigerian government or the criminals who target oil infrastructure to make political and ethnic statements. But the question is: why vengeance? The reason this question is important explains the seeming indifference to the crisis, at least for now, within the larger Nigerian community and why the avengers have so far been dismissed, to their dismay, as “empty heads” and “criminals.” Not a few persons have asked: what else do Niger Delta militants want?
Recall that in 2009, late President Umaru Yar’Adua introduced an amnesty programme to end Niger Delta insurgency. Two years earlier, the architects of Nigerian politics had also deemed it necessary to allocate the Vice Presidency to the Niger Delta, and by sheer providence, the occupier of that slot, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan soon became Acting President following the death of his boss, and later in 2011, he won the Presidential election and became President.
For about seven years, under this programme, introduced by President Yar’Adua and sustained by President Jonathan, Niger Delta militants were demobilized and disarmed. The top hierarchy soon became security consultants to the Federal Government, monitoring pipelines, and helping to check oil theft. The middle cadre was placed on a monthly stipend while those who could be trained were sent to technical colleges and universities in Southern Africa and Eastern Europe. The militants became rich and gentrified, and with their kinsman in office as President in Abuja, the people of the Niger Delta began to feel a sense of ownership and belongingness that no one in that region had felt since 1960.
But what is now happening clearly shows the limits of the politics of appeasement that Nigeria has played since independence. No country can be successfully run on a short-term basis and through the assignment of tokens to aggrieved parties within the union. It was mere delusion to have ever imagined that the people of the Niger Delta could ever be successfully appeased with a pacifying short-term amnesty programme and a shot at the Presidency. Even under President Jonathan, there were protests about the distribution of amnesty largesse, and disagreements among the former militants, who practically relocated to Abuja to take advantage of their brother’s ascendancy. The quarrel was all about who got what and it was only a matter of time, before those who felt short-changed would stage their own drama, which they have now started, in the hope that they may be luckier this time around and get their own share of appeasement. This is the sub-text of the deliberate distancing by the new boys from the old guard of militants.
They seem to have been further provoked by the arrival in Abuja of “a new Pharaoh who does not seem to know Joseph.” President Muhammadu Buhari has approved funding and payments under the Niger Delta Amnesty programme, he has also appointed a Minister of Niger Delta and a Special Adviser on Niger Delta Amnesty, in addition to extending the amnesty initiative, beyond the initial December 2015 deadline to December 2017. But there is no programme of patronage, the type that channels money into the pockets of Niger Delta militants, warlords or foot-soldiers, and since Abuja also seems to have become wasteland for the once-triumphant Niger Deltan, the Jonathan crowd, and the fisherman’s cap, the informal patronage that turned many Niger Deltans into king’s men and women, has vanished. The emergent militant groups also have other selfish reasons why they are angry not just with President Buhari but also with the Nigerian state, for in the end, after the 2009-2015 period, position, cash and contracts appeasement has not in any way resolved the core problems of existential and environmental crisis in the Niger Delta. Nigeria merely postponed the evil day and unless we deal more forthrightly with the vexatious issues of equity, federalism, justice and citizenship driving Niger Delta and Biafran nationalism, those who throw tokens at the problem can only do so in vain.
The bad news is that President Muhammadu Buhari doesn’t seem to be in a hurry to address these fundamental issues. He probably has every reason to be angry, and he may even raise such questions as: what is wrong with these Niger Delta avengers? What exactly do they want to avenge -their kinsman losing election? Do they think they can blackmail government even when the amnesty programme has been “magnanimously” extended? These may sound emotional, but they are serious questions, signposting how access to power at the centre and survival in that space has become a victim of deterministic ethnic rivalry. The emerging trend that whoever becomes President of Nigeria now has to worry about the possibility of being sabotaged by an aggrieved ethnic group or groups is dangerous for our democracy.
Recall also that after the 2011 Presidential election, the people of the Niger Delta while certainly elated about one of their own emerging as President, were also painfully aware that in the course of the feverish politics of succession in 2010, leading up to the nominations for 2011, certain interests and voices from the North had threatened that should Dr. Jonathan become President, Nigeria would be made ungovernable for him. And as promised, the Boko Haram threat, which had been an issue before 2011, soon got worse and from 2011-2015, the Jonathan administration had to struggle endlessly with overt national security challenges designed and delivered in the North East, and other parts of the North. The Boko Haram crisis and the abduction of the Chibok girls eventually became key negative factors for the Jonathan campaign in the 2015 Presidential election.
It is also similarly on record that before and during the 2015 elections, certain Niger Delta elements also threatened that should President Jonathan lose the election, Nigeria would be made ungovernable for President Buhari. And again as promised, the South East and the South South, President Jonathan’s main support centres, have thrown up major security threats since President Buhari won and assumed office. When governance and politics are thus reduced to a game of thrones, democracy and sovereignty are endangered. Already the Niger Delta Avengers have announced a plan to declare a sovereign state of Niger Delta in October 2016. Nigeria sits on a precarious balance.
There is no justification however, for President Buhari, in dealing with these challenges, to also play the game of vengeance. Speaking in China, recently, he directed the military to crush the new Niger Delta militants and indeed there has been a scaling up of military operations in the region. A military solution to a crisis such as this, as has been learnt with the Boko Haram, and much earlier in the Niger Delta, ultimately proves to be inadequate; instead there should be a return to the core issues of making Nigeria a country that works for everyone regardless of extraction - religious or ethnic. President Buhari is a livestock farmer; it should not be too difficult for him to understand how the chickens are now going home to roost in the Niger Delta. In the face of unemployment rate hitting 12.1%, youth unemployment, 42.24%, the GDP recording a negative growth of -0.36%, inflation standing at 13.7%, crude oil accounting for 90% of exports and 70% of national revenue, crude oil production dropping to low levels, and the country facing recession, a foreign exchange and power supply crisis, and financial insolvency, renewed restiveness in the Niger Delta, and threats by avengers who want to cut off Nigeria’s key source of revenue, can only further deepen the people’s agony, and place the country on danger list.
President Buhari may deal with the impunity and criminality of the avengers, but Nigeria must address the more ideologically original parts of their protest, and how particularly, the politics of appeasement has made the country far more vulnerable than imaginable. Preventing the country from imploding so dangerously, on so many fronts, as is currently the case, should be considered a matter of urgent national importance.
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