We are well equipped to handle coronavirus—FG

The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that it is well-equipped to detect and handle case or cases of coronavirus. Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed stated this during a press briefing on FG response to Coronavirus, following the first confirmed case in Nigeria.

He appealed to Nigerians not to panic, saying that “we know that at times like this, purveyors of fake news and disinformation usually ramp up their acts. We are therefore urging Nigerians not to fall for the antics of purveyors of fakes news and disinformation”. “Fortunately, Facebook is working with us in this regard. They have asked Nigerians to report any false or misleading report on Facebook and Instagram pages so they can immediately bring them down”

Alleged fraud: Buhari suspends coordinator of amnesty programme

The President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), has suspended the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Mr Charles Dokubo, over fraud allegations.

Buhari wielded the big stick following the recommendation of a panel chaired by the National Security Adviser, Major General Babagana Monguno (retd.).

The State House said in a statement on Friday night that the panel had looked into the “numerous allegations and petitions surrounding the Presidential Amnesty Programme” and came to the conclusion that Dokubo should be suspended.

In Dokubo’s place, a caretaker committee has been appointed by Buhari to review the programme by bringing its operations in line with the objective of the scheme.

The mandate of the Monguno panel was  to “ensure that allocated resources are properly utilised in consonance with government’s objective of alleviating problems in the Niger Delta region, and stamping out corruption in the amnesty programme.”

As for the review committee, the statement, which was signed by Buhari’s media aide, Mr Femi Adesina, said it was directed to review the programme and “oversee the running of the programme henceforth, with a view to ensuring that government objectives are achieved.”

Dokubo and the PAP had been in the news lately, with one of the allegations being that 75 ex-militants said he did not pay them their allowances totalling N492million.

The ex-militants alleged that the money covered their monthly stipend of N65,000 from January 2011 to May 2019.

Another allegation was that Dokubo “manipulated” the allocation of 75 slots  to the Benuwolo Camp in breach of operational procedures.

Recall that in December 2019, the ex-militants had sued Dokubo before the Federal High Court sitting in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, over the same matter.

The court had summoned Dokubo to appear before it on January 21 to answer to the allegations of fraud raised by the ex-militants.

Protected: Coronavirus patient attempts to escape Lagos isolation centre

BREAKING: Italian confirmed as first case of Coronavirus disease in Lagos

The first case of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been confirmed in Lagos. The Minister of Health, Osagie Enahire, announced this early Friday morning.

The case is an Italian citizen who works in Nigeria and returned from Milan, Italy, on Tuesday, February 25, 2020.

The government says the patient is in clinically stable condition, with no serious symptoms and is being managed at the Infectious Diseases Hospital in Yaba, Lagos.

Also speaking on the development, the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof Akin Abayomi, on behalf of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in a statement, also confirmed the case, and noted that the State Emergency Operations Centre had been activated to respond to this case and implement firm control measures.

According to the statement, the Italian, whose name was not made public, entered Nigeria for a brief business visit, but fell ill the next day, and was transferred to Lagos State Biosecurity Facilities for isolation and testing.

“COVID-19 infection was confirmed by the Virology Laboratory of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, part of the Laboratory Network of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control”, Prof Akinyemi notes.

The statement further read in part: “The Government of Lagos State under the Governor as the COVID-19 Incident Commander, through the the Lagos State Ministry of Health, has been strengthening measures to ensure that any outbreak in Lagos is controlled and contained quickly in collaboration with the multi-sectoral Coronavirus Preparedness Group, led by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). We have immediately activated the State Emergency Operations Centre to respond to this case and implement firm control measures.

“I wish to assure all Lagosians and Nigerians that we have been strengthening our preparedness since the first confirmation of cases in China. We will use all the resources made available by the State and the Federal Government to respond to this case.

“We are working to identify all the contacts of the patient, since he arrived in Nigeria. Please, be reminded that most people who become infected may experience only a mild illness and recover easily, but it can be more severe in others, particularly the elderly and persons with other underlying chronic illnesses. All Lagosians should take care of their health and maintain hand and respiratory hygiene to protect themselves and others, including their own families, following the precautions below:

1. Regularly and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water, and use alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

2. Maintain at least 1 & half metres (5 feet) distance between you and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.

3. People coughing persistently or sneezing should stay indoors or keep a social distance, but not mix with a crowd.

4. Ensure that you and people around you follow good respiratory hygiene by covering mouths and noses with a handkerchief or tissue while sneezing or coughing. You can also sneeze or cough into your sleeve at the bent elbow.Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.

5. Stay indoors if you feel unwell with symptoms, such as fever, cough and difficulty in breathing”.

He also urged citizens not to abuse social media and indulge in spreading misinformation that causes fear and panic.

Ex-banker sentenced to 18 years in prison for fraud

A former Relationship Manager with a bank in Enugu, has been handed an 18 year jail sentence after being arraigned before a Federal High Court in Enugu by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a six-amended-count charge bordering on forgery, altering and giving a loan with defective collateral.  

EFCC Acting Head of Media and Publicity, Tony Orilade said the convict identified as Onyekachi Nwosu was found guilty on all the six-count charge and sentenced accordingly. He revealed that Nwosu altered several account documents of his friend who he illegally granted loan to enhance his Visa application to United Kingdom.

Justice D.V. Agishi who ruled on the case, said the prosecution team proved its case beyond doubt. 

Orilade said; 

“On counts one and two, he was sentenced to five; while he is to serve two years each on counts three, four, five and six. The cumulative 18 years prison terms will, however, run concurrently.

“Investigation by EFCC revealed several professional misconducts by Nwosu who took undue advantage of his position as a Senior Bank Supervisor and account officer to forge a document titled LETTER of SET-OFF which he used to illegally grant a loan of N34,900,000 to a customer and his company from several fixed deposits of other customers without their knowledge nor consent.”

Pastor arrested for allegedly defiling 13-yr-old member inside the church office

The police in Lagos have arrested Prophet Temidayo Afolabi of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church, Kings of Kings parish, Ipaja, for allegedly raping his 13-year old member inside his office within the Church premises.

According to reports, on several occasions, the 36-year-old lured the girl into his office and defiled her, while warning her against telling anyone. The act came to an end when the girl’s elder sister caught them in the act and informed their mother.

Upon interrogation, the victim opened up and the matter was reported to the police who promptly arrested Mr. Afolabi. The suspect was said to have offered the family an accommodation within the church after their dad’s demise.

However, he allegedly used the opportunity to take advantage of the girl and always used his office to avoid being caught by his wife. 

The cleric has been transferred to the Gender Section of the Police Command where he allegedly admitted to sleeping with the girl five times.

Reps Set To Deliberate On Challenges Of Out-Of-School Children

The House of Representatives has set aside March 12 to extensively debate on the challenges associated with out-of-school children in the country.

They made the decision during plenary on Wednesday, adding that no other matter is expected to be debated on that day.

According to the reps, this is part of the legislative agenda of the House, to pay more attention to the education sector.

Late last year, the President of the Senate, Ahmed Lawan, had lamented that Nigeria has the world’s highest figure of out-of-school children – a record which he says is not enviable.

“The majority of these out-of-school children are in the northern part of Nigeria. And this is the highest in the world. It is not an enviable position,” he said.

He also noted that the government is making efforts to ensure that all out-of-school children return to school, stressing that git is not a privilege but a right that the government owes them.

“These out-of-school children are our responsibility. We owe them, because it is not a privilege, it is their right to be in school. We shouldn’t allow them to continue to stray in the street.

“Whether we call them Almajiri or not, these are the leaders of tomorrow and there is going to be a widening gap if such people are left uneducated. They will also contribute security challenge to us if they have not already,” Lawan said.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government has expressed its readiness to partner with Google global services to educate 56 million out-of-school children in Nigeria.

Also, as part of efforts to consolidate the free and compulsory primary and secondary school education policy, the Kano State Government has banned street begging by Almajiri children in the state.

Governor Abdullahi Ganduje gave the order on Tuesday, February 25, during the launch of the Basic Education Service Delivery for All (BESDA) and the Distribution of Offer of Appointment to 7,500 volunteer teachers, held at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata.

He also stressed that parents or guardians of children still found out-of-school, would be taken to court.

Kano Bans Almajiris from the street

Gov. #Ganduje has announced a ban on street begging by #Almajiris in #KanoState.

In a statement on Tuesday, the governor’s spokesperson, Abba Anwar, said the effort was to fully consolidate the free and compulsory primary and secondary schools education in the state.

The decision was meant to integrate the Almajiri system into the policy and address the lingering problem of street begging.

The governor warned that henceforth, Almajiri teachers must accept the new approach put in place by the state government.

“If almijiri teacher thinks he cannot accept the new policy he has to leave the state,” .

When Almajiri are caught begging, it is not only that beggar is caught, but his parents or guardians. Such parents or guardians would be taken to court to face the wrath of the law,” he added.

Chiwetalu Agu denies being sick and begging for financial assistance

Chiwetalu Agu says he is not sick and begging for financial assistance from anyone.

Veteran Nollywood actor, Chiwetalu Agu has come out to deny the news spreading around town that he is sick and begging for financial assistance.

The movie star took to his Instagram page on Saturday, February 22, 2020, where he denied the rumours. According to him, everyone should disregard all any posts on Facebook spreading the rumours of him being sick.

"Good morning my people ❤️ Please disregard any foolish post on Facebook by anybody saying I am SICK and SOLICITING for MONEY, I'm in a perfectly good health condition, I will never ask anybody for A DIME neither am I on FACEBOOK. Signed Chief Chiwetalu Agu," he wrote.

Residents flee Adamawa town as Boko Haram threatens fresh attacks

Residents of Garkida town in the Gombi Local Government Area of Adamawa State were on Sunday fleeing the area, following a fresh threat by the Boko Haram insurgents to attack the town.

A resident of Garkida, in an interview with  the Hausa service of the British Broadcasting Corporation, monitored in Kaduna on Sunday, said the insurgents had threatened to launch another attack on the town.

Also residents, in separate interviews on Sunday, recounted their ordeals when the insurgents attacked the community on Friday.

They lamented that the military did not come to their rescue.

For six hours on Friday night, Boko Haram insurgents attacked Garkida, which is located on the Gombi-Biu-Damaturu road.

During the attack, the insurgents burnt down a police barracks, a police station,  two churches; the Living Faith Church and the Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (Church of the Brethren in Nigeria).

The resident, who spoke to the BBC Hausa Service, said many residents had fled the community on foot, noting that even with money, there was no vehicle plying the area.

The source said, “Many have fled on foot. Even if you have the money, there are no vehicles because of the high number of people on the run now.  Everybody is scared because the Boko Haram sent a new message that they are coming back.”

Police  seek hunters’ assistance.

EPL: Ighalo misses goal as Manchester United thrash Watford 3-0

Manchester United thrashed Watford 3-0 on Sunday in the English Premier League encounter.

Ex-Super Eagles striker, Odion Ighalo, missed an opportunity to score his first goal in his new club.

Though he successfully dribbled the goalkeeper, his shot was deflected by a Watford defender.

Details later…

Atiku condemns Boko Haram attack on Adamawa

Atiku says Boko Haram against lives and properties of innocent Nigerians is unbecoming.

Former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar has condemned the latest Boko Haram attack on his home state, Adamawa.

Boko Haram terrorists invaded Garkida, a town in Gombi Local Government Area of Adamawa State on Friday, February 21, 2020.

Using his Twitter account, Atiku decried the terrorists' attack on the state.

The 2019 Peoples Democratic Party candidate also condoled with the affected families in Garkida.

Speaker Gbajabiamila bags traditional title in Kebbi

The Emir of Yauri, Dr Muhammadu Abdullahi, has honoured the Speaker, House of Representative, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila with the traditional title of  Sadaukin Yauri.

The title which means the ‘Warrior of Yauri’, was conferred on the Speaker on Saturday when he paid a courtesy visit to the emir.

Gbajabiamila was in Kebbi for the annual regatta and cultural festival in the emirate.

Abdullahi said the title was to appreciate the Speaker for his love and support to the people of the state.

“This is a great day for us as the people of Yauri, and because of the love you have shown us, my emirate has conferred on you the prestigious title of Sadaukin Yauri, which is translated as warrior of Yauri,’’ he said.

In his acceptance speech, Gbajabiamila, described the honour given to him as a form of cultural exchange and showed Nigeria’s diversity.

“I came here because of the love and support the people of the state have been giving to me.

“The Governor, Atiku Bagudu, has been my good friend and brother for a long time,’’ the Speaker said.

In a vote of thanks, Senate Leader, Yahyah Abdullahi promised that the National Assembly would mobilise resources to ensure the completion of the Koko-Yauri federal road.

The festival was attended by the Emirs of Gwandu, Argungu, Zuru and Kotogora, as well as Gov. Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed.

Other in attendance were members of the House of Representatives and state government functionaries

Mob Action: Angry youths kill one, burn police vehicle in Jigawa

Police have confirmed the killing of one person while four others have been injured in a clash involving police and a mob in Malam Madori local Government of Jigawa state

Police spokesman Sp Abdu Jinjiri confirmed the incident in Dutse.

He explained that the incident happened when two police officers in a patrol vehicle knocked down a girl on her way home from school while on a hot chase of a vehicle.

He said the incident resulted in commotion and irate youth became violent, killing one person and injuring four passengers travelling in the suspected vehicle.

Jijiri added that the irate youth also burned down both the patrol vehicle and the suspected commercial vehicle.

Police Public Relations officer added that two officers have been arrested and are detained for investigation, while the four others that were injured are receiving treatment at the Hadejia general hospital.

Eyewitness also confirmed the incident to newsmen stressing that two schoolgirls were knocked down by the police patrol vehicle after a commercial driver tried to escape police search.

I’m not afraid of prison – South Africa’s ex-president, Jacob Zuma

South Africa’s graft-accused former president Jacob Zuma returned home on Saturday after a month-long trip to Cuba for medical treatment and declared he was not afraid of prison.

Zuma, 77, was slapped with an arrest warrant earlier this month after his lawyers claimed he was too ill to travel back to South Africa for a pre-trial hearing on corruption charges.

A high court issued the warrant after it questioned the authenticity of his sick note, but said it would not be executed until the case is set to resume on May 6.

A crowd of people gathered at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo international airport to welcome Zuma, the former ANC leader who ruled South Africa from 2009 to 2018.

Zuma is alleged to have taken bribes of  four million rand (about $267,000) related to a $3.4 billion arms deal in 1999 when he was deputy president.

In all, he faces 16 charges of fraud, graft and racketeering related to the purchase of fighter jets, patrol boats and military equipment.

The arrest warrant was just the latest twist in a case that has seen many legal turns over the past decade and a half.

Thai multi-millionaire Chatri Sityodtong offers bullied 9-year-old boy with dwarfism an all-expenses-paid trip to Singapore

Thai multi-millionaire owner, Chatri Sityodtong has offered Quaden Bayles, the 9-year-old boy with dwarfism an all-expenses-paid trip to Singapore after he was bullied. 

Three days ago, Bayles's mother shared an emotional video of her son, who was born with Achondroplasia, a form of Dwarfism crying and saying he wanted to die after being bullied at school.

Now, Martial arts champion and ONE Championship founder, Chatri Sityodtong has offered to fly Quaden and his family on an all-expenses-paid trip to Singapore.  

He also praised Quaden's strength and said he would want him to be taught martial arts at his martial arts school called Evolve Mix Martial Arts.

'I just want to let you know you have a friend out here in Asia and I know you're going through incredible suffering and pain. I can't imagine what you're going through,' Sityodtong said. 

'But I want you to know that God gives the toughest battles to his bravest and strongest soldiers and for sure you're one of them. And I want you to know that your pain and suffering today is going to be your strength tomorrow. 

'One day you're going to rise above and have the strength, compassion, and empathy because everything you've gone through to help others. I really believe it.' 

He then extended an offer to Quaden and his family to learn martial arts in his 'bully-proof' school.  

'I would also like to extend to you and your family an all-expenses paid trip to Singapore.

'I own a wonderful martial arts school called Evolve Mix Martial Arts. It has an incredible children's program that bully-proofs kids. If you have time this summer I'd love to invite you and your family as my personal guests to Singapore.'

At the end of the video, Sityodtong urged parents and children to put a stop to bullying. 

'To the parents and children out there, lets stop this bullying. Lets be kind to one another. The world needs it now more than ever.'

FAYOSE DISCREDIT NEWS OF DUMPING PDP

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose says he is not contemplating dumping the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), for another party.

Mr Lere Olayinka, his Media Aide, said this in a statement in Ado Ekiti, on Friday.

Olayinka, explained that the claim in some quartres that Fayose had concluded arrangements to embrace the All Progressives Congress (APC), was false.

“Someone of the status and pedigree of Fayose can never join APC,” he said.

He said, a statement purportedly made by the state chapter of APC to the effect that the ex-governor was not qualified to join the party, was therefore unthinkable and mischievous.

“It is funny that APC lied about him coming to join the party and also went further to react to its own lies,” he said.

He admonished the party to focus its attention on how to lift the state to economic greatness and stop further job losses.

NAN

King of #Iwo suspended

Osun State Council of Traditional Rulers on Friday suspended #Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi for six months.

They said his suspension was not in connection with the alleged assault on the Agbowu of Ogbaagba, Oba Dhikirulahi Akinropo, but over what they termed Oluwo’s indecent acts to some monarchs, including the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, Alake of Egbaland and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi.

Briefing journalists at the end of the meeting which lasted for about three hours, the Orangun of Ila Orangun, Oba Wahab Adedotun said: “Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi has been suspended for six months.”

Nollywood actor Frank Dallas is dead

Veteran Nollywood actor and film maker, Frank Dallas Ebulukwu is dead.

The death has been announced of veteran Nollywood actor cum producer, Frank Dallas Ebulukwu.

His death was announced on the official page of the Actors Guild Of Nigeria on Thursday, February 20, 2020. According to its Public Relations Officer, Monalisa Chinda, the body has declared 3 days of national mourning and prayers across all State Chapters including FCT Abuja.

"With a heart full of sorrow, we announce the sudden death of the immediate past National PRO of GNU, Frank Dallas Ebulukwu. The National President of AGN, Ejezie Emeka Rollas has declared 3 days of national mourning and prayers across all State Chapters including FCT Abuja.

"In view of this, all official activities of the Guild at all levels are hereby cancelled for three days. State Chapter Chairmen are instructed to open condolence register in his honour from Monday, 24/02/2020.

Monthly meeting for February is dedicated to mourning and prayers. We shall be guided accordingly while we await further directives and burial arrangements from the family. May his gentle soul rest in peace. Monalisa Chinda Coker, National PRO," she wrote.

Frank Dallas started his acting career in the 1990s. He first featured in the 1994 movie 'Black Maria.' He later went on to feature in numerous movies including 'Agony Of A Mother,' 'A Night To Remember,' 'Emotional Pain' and a host of others.

#nollywood #naija #lagos #abuja #kaduna #veteran #peteredochie teredochie

Okada/Keke ban: Taskforce nabs 2 fake uniformed operatives

The operatives of the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences (Enforcement) Unit (Taskforce) has nabbed two suspects for impersonating Security Officers at Oshodi, Lagos.

Speaking on the incident, the Chairman of the Agency, CSP Olayinka Egbeyemi disclosed that while one of the suspects (Monday Job) impersonated a Police Officer using his commercial motorcycle to scout for passengers on restricted routes, the second (Rasak Oloyede) presented himself as an Army Officer using his commercial bus for fraudulent acts along Lagos-Abeokuta expressway.

Egbeyemi stated that after their arrest, the two suspects confessed to the crime, saying that they indulged in the act in order not to be accosted by genuine security officers on monitoring duties.

According to him, “Our intelligent reports revealed that some dubious-minded motorcyclists are now using fake Nigerian Army/Police uniform to scout for passengers on restricted routes as well as indulging in various forms of fraudulent acts across the State”.

He reiterated the directive of the state government which stipulates that all security personnel on an official assignment with motorcycles must be fully kitted in uniform, with their identity card conspicuously displayed.

The Chairman also reiterated that motorcycle operators must desist from plying all 475 restricted routes, adding that they must also wear their crash helmets and must possess riders’ permit for proper identification of the park they belong while plying other routes.

While urging members of the public to be vigilant and desist from patronising motorcyclists and commercial bus drivers wearing a fake security uniform, the Chairman disclosed that the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Hakeem Odumosu has directed that both suspects be charged to court for prosecution.

In his statement, one of the suspects (Monday Job) who hails from Akwa-Ibom State, confessed that he bought the uniform from a Police Officer who was deployed from Lagos to the northern part of the country for N7000, adding that he has since been using the uniform to carry out an illegal arrest and extortion of money from both motorists and motorcyclists plying restricted routes along Lagos-Abeokuta expressway.

“I was hawking before I joined Okada business over a year ago and I have been wearing this Police uniform to arrest and defraud Okada riders and making at least N30,000 to N35,000 daily”, he added.

The second suspect (Rasak Oloyede), who impersonated a Sergeant in the Nigerian Army, said he has been using the uniform he got from a dismissed Army officer to escape checkpoints on roads by Traffic Officers.

He also claimed to be using the uniform to extort money from motorists and making a daily average collection of N25,000 to N40,000 whenever his Volkswagen commercial bus, with the registration number BDG149 XK, had mechanical faults.

NCC, NIPOST to verify mobile line owners’ addresses

The Nigerian Communications Commission and the Nigerian Postal Service are to collaborate in verifying the addresses of SIM card owners in the country.

The two agencies also agreed to work out a Memorandum of Understanding on ways to facilitate financial inclusion in the country.

The managements of the two establishments met at the NCC headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, where it was also agreed that the commission and the postal service would collaborate on driving the Federal Government’s digital economy agenda.

The NCC and NIPOST will also partner on Internet access for people in rural areas and provision of e-governance services in all the local government councils in the country.

A committee was set up to work out details of the MoU.

Speaking at the meeting, Postmaster General and Chief Executive Officer of NIPOST, Mr Adebayo Adelusi, said the postal service was going through a difficult phase at the moment.

Adelusi said NIPOST needed to partner with NCC to leverage available opportunities.

He disclosed that issues surrounding the collection of stamp duty, which had become a bone of contention between NIPOST and the Federal Inland Revenue Service, had not been resolved.

Adelusi observed that his predecessor fought very hard to ensure that NIPOST retained the right to collect the revenue for the Federal Government.

The Postmaster General noted that NIPOST had what it takes to provide banking services for Nigerians.

He said, “We want to tap and leverage on our properties across the country to provide services for the people in the rural areas.”

Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Prof. Umar Danbatta, said NIPOST was strategically positioned to work with the commission to deepen access to internet services in the rural areas.

Ekiti to translate Amotekun law to Yoruba

Ekiti State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Wale Fapohunda, said on Wednesday that the state governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, had approved the translation of laws in Ekiti State into Yoruba Language.

Fapohunda said the laws to be translated included the bill for the establishment of Amotekun Corps and Ekiti State Security Network Agency which was passed into law on Friday by the state House of Assembly and at present awaiting the assent of the governor.

The AG, in a statement in Ado Ekiti, said, “Ekiti State Security Network Agency Bill affects the daily lives of the people of Ekiti State, especially those in our rural communities. It, therefore, follows that this is one legislation that all of our people need to understand.

“In furtherance of the commitment of the Fayemi administration to its citizens’ active participation in governance, Mr Governor has approved the translation of laws of Ekiti State into Yoruba Language.

“Given the volumes of the laws of Ekiti State, the translation will be implemented in phases. The first phase will include laws that have a direct impact on the daily reality of our people,” he said.

According to Fapohunda, some of the laws that will be translated immediately will include Sustainable Development Goals Law, Ekiti State, 2019; Ekiti State Property Protection (Anti- Land Grabbing) Law 2019; Ekiti State Gender-Based Violence (Prohibition) Law 2019, and Ekiti State (Transition) Law, 2019.

On how the laws will be translated, the AG said, “There are many qualified academics in the Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti who are specialised in Yoruba Language. We will work with them.”

Fapohunda also stated that some of the policy documents of the Ministry of Justice like the Ekiti State Charter for Victims of Crime; Directive on Non-discontinuance of Criminal Matters, Additional Measures in aid of Prosecution of Sexual Violence would also be translated into the Yoruba Language.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice and Solicitor General, Ekiti State, Lawrence Ojo, while commenting on the development, said, “Ekiti State Ministry of Justice will be recording another first in Nigeria”.

Ojo said there had been talks over the years, especially in lawyers’ conferences and meetings, on the need to translate laws into local Nigerian languages, but little progress had been made, adding, “With Ekiti State breaking the ice, it is envisaged that more states will follow.”

Federation Account: FG, States, LGs Share N647.35bn For January

The Federal Government, States and Local Government Councils have shared a total of N647.353 billion from the Federation Account Revenue for January 2020.

This was disclosed in a statement on Wednesday by the Deputy Director, Press and Public Relations, Henshaw Ogubike.

According to Mrs Ogubike, the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), in a meeting chaired by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mahmoud Isa-Dutse disbursed the funds to the three tiers of government.

FAAC confirmed that for the month of January 2020, there was a significant increase in Import Duty revenue while Companies Income Tax(CIT), Value Added Tax (VAT),  Oil and Gas Royalties and Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT) recorded decreases.

It stated that from the total revenue of N647.353 billion, the Federal Government received N267.389 billion, the State Governments received N176.923 billion, and the Local Government Councils received N132.944 billion.

The statement read in part that the “N647.353 billion comprised Statutory Revenue, Value Added Tax (VAT), Exchange Gain, Non-Oil Revenue and Excess Bank Charges recovered.”

It added that the balance in the Excess Crude Account (ECA) as at February 19, 2020, was $71.814 million.

Oil Producing States received N46.197 billion as 13% derivation revenue and the Revenue Generating Agencies received N23.900 billion as cost of revenue collection.

The statement gave a breakdown of the distribution from the gross statutory revenue of N525.253 billion; the Federal Government received N243.704 billion, the State Governments received N123.610 billion and the Local Government Councils received N95.298 billion.

Also, the Oil Producing States received N46.074 billion as 13% derivation revenue and the Revenue Collecting Agencies received N16.567 billion as cost of collection.

“From the Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue of N104.758, the Federal Government received N14.614 billion, the State Governments received N48.713 billion, the Local Government Councils received N34.099 billion and the Revenue Generating Agencies received N7.333 billion as cost of revenue collection.”

Meanwhile, from the Exchange Gain revenue of N1.044 billion, “the Federal Government received N0.485 billion, the State Governments received N0.246 billion, and the Local Government Councils got N 0.190 billion and the oil-producing States got N0.123 billion as 13% derivation revenue.”

Non-Oil revenue of N16.298 billion, the Federal Government got N8.586 billion, the State Governments got N4.355 billion, the Local Government Councils got N3.357 billion.

2020 BATCH 'A' ORIENTATION COURSE COMMENCES MARCH 10

Arrangements have been concluded for the smooth conduct of 2020 Batch 'A' Orientation Course scheduled to hold between Tuesday 10th March and Monday 30th March 2020.

The Director-General, Brigadier General Shuaibu Ibrahim disclosed this today in his address at the Opening Ceremony of 2020 Batch 'A' Pre-Orientation Meeting which had Area Coordinators, State Coordinators, Camp Directors, Camp Commandants designate and other Collaborating Agencies in attendance.

He said the Orientation Course, which is one of the four cardinal programmes of the NYSC is the first point of Corps Members' contact with the scheme, hence, the need for a memorable Orientation Course that would play a vital role in the overall success of the service year.

Ibrahim, who said Management places high premium on the security and welfare of Corps Members added that there was the need to continually strategize and effectively liaise with  all security agencies, NYSC State Governing Boards, NYSC Local Government Committees and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the safety of all Corps Members before, during and  after the Orientation Course.

The DG commended some State Governments who had commenced work on the renovation of camp facilities but added that there is the need for increased focus on the upgrade and expansion of the camps so as to make them fit for the increasing rate of Corps population.

Ibrahim appealed for teamwork and diligence from the participants as they evaluate the previous Orientation Course, brainstorm and evolve new strategies for the success of the forthcoming Orientation Course.

"I enjoin you to identify individuals and corporate organisations that can be approached for help in the development of the Orientation Camps".

"Management will continue to sensitize State Governments on the need to upgrade the carrying capacity of all the Orientation Camps to 5,000".

"Management places high premium on the health and general welfare of Corps Members. Therefore, it behoves on all of us to ensure that issues of Corps Welfare are given priority attention at all times", the DG said 

Speaking further, he said the NYSC Scheme has trained over 1.4 million Corps Members through its in-camp and post-camp training on Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme.

General lbrahim also reiterated the scheme's commitment to prevent unqualified graduates from participating in National Service.

Visa ban: US gives Nigeria conditions for review of policy

The United States (US) government has given Nigerian government conditions under which the recent visa policy, affecting six countries, Nigeria inclusive, could be reviewed.

Mrs Mary-Beth Leonard, the U.S Ambassador to Nigeria, gave the conditions during a familiarisation visit to the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, on Tuesday in Abuja.

Leonard said that the policy will be reviewed once Nigeria improves her data intelligence, such that it would be easy to investigate any immigrant wishing to visit her country and meet information sharing systems, the ban might likely be reviewed.

It would be recalled that the U.S recently announced that it is expanding its curbs on immigration to include six more countries, including Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation.

This development means that citizens from Nigeria, Eritrea, Sudan, Tanzania, Kyrgyzstan and Myanmar will now be blocked from obtaining certain types of visas.

“I think I need to clarify something for you here, the immigrant visa ban does not affect people who are currently resident in the United States. It does not cancel the status of anyone currently in the United States.

“What Mike Pompeo, U.S Secretary of States, said was something that was meant to be temporary. And it is about problems with information sharing which are investigable, achievable and resolvable.

“We look forward to Nigeria in a very short while being able to meet those information sharing goal so that the decision can be reviewed.

“Also, students visas are not affected by the current visa ban,” according to her.

On diversification policy, Leonard said there was need for skill set of Nigerians to be effectively harnessed and internationalised, such that they would not be seen as illegal immigrants when they go abroad to work.

She added “I think for Nigeria, you have interesting story about diversification of your economy and prosperity of your economy and its people. You know Nigerians are so well known at home and abroad for their industriousness.”

She however called on the Nigerian government to capture the entrepreneurial spirit in the informal sector by bringing on board into the formal sector service to enhance employment in the country.

The minister however said that the immigrant visa ban by the U.S was impunity.

Ngige noted that Nigeria has over 70 per cent of Nigerian professionals who migrated to the U.S for the betterment of their skills.

“This includes the medical doctors, engineers, ICT, among others, who are resident in the U.S and when the U.S government gave the ban it came to us as a rude shock that their legal status would be cancelled.

“I will want to say that Nigerian professionals over there are highly qualified to have their visa status residence over there,” he said.

Ngige however called on the U.S government to assist Nigeria to build schools in the areas where child labour is an endemic in the country.

“We have done a total of 14,000 labour inspection out of which we detected about 3,900 child labour defaulters and we have empowered them economically and encouraged them to go to school or learn skills,” he added.

BREAKING: Lassa fever spreads to Lagos

Lagos has recorded a case of Lassa fever currently raging in 19 other states in the country. Announcing the development on Wednesday morning, the State Commissioner for Health Prof, Akin Abayomi confirmed that the patient is currently in isolation at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, LUTH.

Abayomi who assured that the situation is under control called for calm among the residents said there was no cause for panic as the State government in active collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, is doing everything possible to control the spread of the disease in Lagos State.

Amaechi's Chief Security Officer is dead

Iwelu was electrocuted in the shower, reports say.

Tony Iwelu, the Chief Security Officer (CSO) to the Minister for Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, is dead.

Iwelu was electrocuted by a shower rose in his hotel room in Kaduna on February 17, 2020, at about 10:30am, an aide of the minister told Daily Trust.

Premium Times has also reported his passing.

The late Iwelu traveled with the minister to Kaduna to felicitate with Governor Nasir El-rufai on his 60th birthday.

The minister is yet to officially comment on his aides passing, however.

Supreme court adjourns Imo governorship case till March 2nd

The Supreme Court has adjourned till March 2nd, the hearing in the application filed by the PDP and former Imo state governor, Emeka Ihedioha, for a review of the January 14th judgement in which Ihedioha's tenure as governor was terminated. 

Counsel to the former governor of the state, Emeka Ihedioha and the PDP, Kanu Agabi (SAN) sought an adjournment to enable the parties conclude on the processes that are being filed and served.

Counsel to Uzodinma and APC, Damian Dodo (SAN) did not oppose the application.

Ihedioha and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had filed an application before the apex court, asking it to set aside its judgement of January 14th in which the court nullified the March 9 election of Ihedioha and declared Hope Uzodinma of the All Progressives Congress, APC, winner of the election.

Breaking ! Port Harcourt Popular Dj Shot Dead By Unknown Gunmen

A Port Harcourt based popular DJ is known as DjFlexzy Wheelz has been reportedly shot dead by unknown gunmen. The ugly incident occurred at the early hours on 15th of February, 2020.

According to the information from a close friend, the deceased was shot at the neck from a close range just on his way home from a party he hosted on valentine's day.

DjFlexzy Wheelz was the chief host of the “Traffic Light Party” which took place at the Hakarat Mall somewhere along Obi Wali road Rumuigbo in Port Harcourt, where he displayed historic performances but unfortunately could not make it home safely after entertaining his fans on valentine's day.

His family members, friends and fans has taken it to social media as they mourn their departed friend and brother. His remains have been taken to the morgue by his family while awaiting burial.

Nigeria Customs: Court orders arrest of ex-Comptroller General Dikko

The Federal High Court, Abuja, on Monday, ordered the arrest of Abdullahi Dikko, former Comptroller General (CG) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

The court wants Dikko to appear at the next sitting on March 16, 2020.

The order followed his continued failure to appear in court in an alleged corruption and bribery trial.

Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu turned down the lawyer’s explanation that the defendant was ill and on admission in London.

Dikko’s lawyer, Solomon Akuma, SAN, had presented a medical report before the court.

But the judge said the medical report bearing the address, N6 Ahmed Musa Crescent, Jabi, Abuja, contradicted Akuma’s claim that the defendant was on admission in London.

NAN reports that the ICPC in 2019 charged Dikko and two others with inducing the Managing Director of Cambial Limited, Yemi Obadeyi, to pay the sum of N1,100, 952,380.96 into the account of Capital Law Office.

The fund was described as a refundable “completion security deposit” for the purchase of 120 units of duplexes as residential accommodation for officers of the NCS.

The other defendants are former Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Finance, Administration and Technical Services, Garba Makarfi and a lawyer and promoter of Capital Law firm, Umar Hussaini.

Ibadan-Kano rail line ready by 2023, says FG

The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, said this in an interview with journalists in Abuja.

The minister expressed optimism that the project would be ready before the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), leaves office in 2023.

When asked what could be the reason for the delay in completing the Lagos-Ibadan rail project, he said it was not the fault of the contractors but the urban nature of Lagos.

He said, “We have pipes. For instance, for the road to the seaport, we had to bring a company from Italy to identify the pipes and know those who owned them because the companies did not know their pipes.

“The next thing is, if we try to dig out the pipes, the power supply will stop in Lagos and there will be no fuel literally for the entire country apart from those from Port Harcourt.

“So, we brought another company that was not part of the contract. We brought another company that came to find the solution to how to build on those pipes without causing damage because one of the problems with those pipes is that once it is not properly done, the whole of Lagos will be gone.

“We have to put enough engineering to protect those pipe and oil that they carry so that we don’t have an explosion.”

The minister also said the Russian President, Vladimir Putin, had directed a Russian firm to partner with Nigeria to construct the Lagos-Calabar rail line.

He said the government was waiting for feedback from a Russian firm for the construction of the Lagos-Calabar rail line.

The government of Russia and Nigeria had reached an agreement for the construction of the Lagos-Calabar rail line during Buhari’s visit to Russia in October last year.

The minister also expressed optimism that the bill of quantity that the Russian firm would present would be cheaper than what the Chinese had proposed.

Coronavirus: Tokyo marathon cancelled

Organisers said Monday they are cancelling the amateur portion of the Tokyo marathon, affecting around 38,000 runners, on fears about the spread of the new coronavirus in Japan.

“We reached the conclusion that unfortunately, it is difficult to organise the event. After several cases (of the virus) were confirmed in Tokyo,” the Tokyo Marathon Foundation said in a statement.

Details later…

AFP

Planned Protest Against Service Chiefs Aimed At Embarrassing Buhari – Presidency

The Presidency has accused the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of planning a protest for the removal of service chiefs over poor security on the country.

According to the Presidency, the protest is an effort is to embarrass President Muhammadu Buhari.

“The Presidency wishes to caution a section of the political class against misleading the public and inciting protests against the heads of military institutions.

“This has become necessary in view of received reports that about two thousand men and women have been hired to demonstrate against Nigeria’s service chiefs on Monday,” the statement which is signed by the senior special adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu said.

Shehu in the statement added that “this imminent gathering is the latest in a series of demonstrations orchestrated by the opposition to embarrass the government of President Muhammadu Buhari.”

He added that PDP had earlier commenced a march from one embassy to the other in protest against the Buhari administration and the nation’s highest court of justice, the Supreme Court.

“They are keen to give the impression that Nigerians are in support of them as they take to the streets, and they will go to any length to promote this false narrative.”

Speaking concerning the recent incident in Maiduguri, Borno State, a group of people were recorded booing President Buhari, Shehu said this is a part PDP’s ‘elaborate scheme.’

It is misleading, as some analysts have tried to do, to read this as verdict against President Buhari, who emerged winner with 94 per cent of the votes cast in the Presidential election in the state in February last year.

This was clearly a hired few, but the news was promoted by the opposition who had of course positioned themselves to record the booing – all just to embarrass the President.

Buhari could not achieve more because Nigeria does not have money – BMO

The Buhari Media Organisation (BMO) has said Nigeria does not have money.

BMO Chairman, Niyi Akinsiju, stated this on Sunday at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum in Abuja.

He stated that due to the situation, President Muhammadu Buhari was only implementing important policies that will positively affect the poor.

Akinsiju said: “We have a President that is considerate that for every policy, the important thing to him would be the consequence to Nigerian poor and the Nigerian people.”

He noted that the government was “thinking of building roads, upgrading schools, upgrading hospitals and all that when we have lesser money to attend to such”.

“So, the reality is that Nigeria does not have money and I personally do not delude myself because we do not have money and the only way we can have money is a pure capitalist system that we are running.

“We would have gone into taxing, removing subsidy and all that, that is what most capitalists of the other worlds are telling us to remove subsidy so that government would have more money.”

Akinsiju pointed out that citizens, especially the poor will find it difficult to exist if such advice is taken.

“There was just this 2.5 per cent increase in VAT and there was uproar, meanwhile our capitalist economists are telling us that we should have increased it to 15 per cent VAT, you can only imagine the outcome,” he said.

He further blamed the nation’s underdevelopment on the previous administrations.

The BMO chairman said bad roads, bad hospitals, bad schools were caused by those who governed Nigeria before Buhari.

“If government of each particular period had been constructing 100 kilometers of road per year, you can only imagine how many roads would have been constructed”, Akinsiju added.

Permanent Secretary Abducted In Nasarawa

The Permanent Secretary of the Nasarawa Ministry of Works, Jibrin Giza, has been abducted.

According to the Commissioner of Police in the state, Bola Longe, Mr Giza was abducted around 12:30 am by gunmen from his resident in Shabu, a suburb of Lafia.

The police chief told Channels Television that the gunmen stormed the resident shooting into the air and gained access into the residence when one of them scaled the fence and forced the gateman who had only a cutlass for a weapon to open the gate.

Longe added that the police have launched a manhunt for the kidnappers.

The abductors have yet to contact Mr Giza’s family and have not made any demands.

David Lyon’s sack: Buhari told to arrest, prosecute Oshiomhole immediately

Barrister Olusegun Bamgbose has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to immediately order the arrest and prosecution of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole over his outburst shortly after the Supreme Court’s ruling that sacked David Lyon as Bayelsa State governor-elect.

Saga Gist reported on Thursday that a five-man panel of the Supreme Court held that Lyon’s deputy, Degi-Eremieoyo presented a forged certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Angered by the court’s decision Oshiomhole had vowed that no one would be sworn-in as governor in the State, adding that Bayelsa would remain without a governor.

Angry mob suspected to be supporters of the APC had attacked the premises of the Bayelsa State Broadcasting Corporation, damaging and looting valuables to protest the declaration of the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Douye Diri, as the Governor-elect by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Bangbose, in a statement to DAILY POST on Sunday, said it is really quite sad and unfortunate that Oshiomole could descend so low to incite violence because Supreme Court sacked Mr. Lyon, the APC candidate.

According to the senior lawyer, one would have expected Oshiomole to have decorum in addressing the issue, but he wondered why the APC national chairman chose to throw decency in the dustbin and dared the Supreme Court judgment by submitting that there was no fruit of justice in it.

He said, “That is an affront on the Supreme Court of the land. He [Oshiomhole] should be charged with contempt of law and he may likely spend about 3 months behind bar to purge himself of this contempt.

“Oshiomole has actually outlived his usefulness in the Party. One still wonders why the party is still keeping him as the leader.

“If Oshiomole is the best person in APC, to be the National Chairman, then it’s most unfortunate. He has done more damage to the party than good. I’ve reasons to believe that Oshiomole was sidelined in the scheme of things.

“The recent outbursts of Oshiomole, is to say the least shocking. It’s however more shocking that the [President Muhammadu Buhari-led] Presidency has maintained a stoic silence.

“One would have expected the Presidency to order the immediate arrest of Oshiomole not minding that he is the party leader.

“He incited violence and should be dealt with according to the law. Oshiomole has exhibited and promoted political rascality and this should not go unpunished.”

UI NASU on Strike, Places “Idol” at School Gate to Demonstrate Grievance.

It was a very disturbing scene at the University of Ibadan in the early hours of Friday, February, 14th 2020, when a “disturbing image” was placed by the aggrieved members of the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) at the school entrance.

Alas! It was an Idol at School Gate.

The NASU strike seems to be incessant as the members have been going on frequent demonstrations since last year 2019. It appears that the members are yet to have their needs met and their words heard.

Howbeit, this NASU strike seems to be one that will be very devastating as students of the institution are complaining about power being seized in the hostels which has consequentially given rise to short supply of water, especially at this period when the second-semester examination of the 2018/2019 is ongoing

However, in the light of this occurrence, the aggrieved members of the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) locked the school gate, halted movement, and placed an Idol at the entrance.

Many people who saw the scene criticized the action of the NASU members, saying they stooped so low to have done something of such, especially in a respected institution like the University of Ibadan.

What do you have to say about this action of the Non-Academic Staff Union members of the University of Ibadan with the placing of Idol” at School Gate? Justifiable or unjustifiable? Give your comments below.

Lagos: Why okada, keke ban will not be reversed – Dep gov, Hamzat

The Lagos State Government has stated that the ban on commercial motorcycles (okada) and tricycles (keke) in Lagos metropolis will not be reversed.

Deputy Gov. Obafemi Hamzat, in a statement on Friday, said this was because the government was determined to reduce accidents and vices associated.

Hamzat noted that the ban would promote security of lives and that the decision was taken after evaluating the rate of crime and accidents recorded.

He said: “It is not to punish anybody or restrict people from doing certain jobs; the reality is that people are dying, security of our children is being compromised, and the government must act.

“What this administration is doing is just to enforce the law that the House of Assembly passed which must have been vigorously scrutinised.

“The ban is in accordance with the Lagos State Transport Reform Law of 2012. The law that has been in existence since 2012.

“The law says that commercial motorcycles and tricycles are restrained from plying major highways, certain roads and all bridges,” he said.

“The law was revisited due to the scary figures of fatal accidents in the state as against the claims that the ban was targeted at anyone or group.

“We have 27 general hospitals in Lagos and close to 3,000 private hospitals.

“Using the statistics from the general hospitals alone, an average of 28 deaths related to okada are recorded monthly. It is therefore important for us as a government to act.”

Hamzat noted that said motorcycles and tricycles were being used by some unpatriotic citizens as tools for crime such as theft and drug trafficking.

He said that the modes of transportation were becoming avenues to commit crimes and the government would not wait until major disasters would happen before acting.

“We get calls through our emergency control centres as early as 6:00a.m. from people going to work who are being robbed and harassed through motorcycles,” the deputy governor added

Bayelsa: Oshiomhole reveals APC’s next step as INEC gives PDP’s Diri certificate

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced plan to seek a reversal of the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (lNEC) to issue certificate of return to Bayelsa Governor-elect, Sen. Douye Diri.

APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, told newsmen on Friday that the nullification of the election of the party’s governorship candidate, David Lyon, was an injustice that favoured the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He stated that the APC recognises that having issued certificate to PDP candidate, “there are viable legal windows that will be explored”.

“We affirm our confidence in the judiciary even with pains in our hearts.

“The Supreme Court for good reason, gave a conditional order that INEC should swear in the second candidate with the highest number of votes and the required constitutional spread.”

“Clearly, the votes scored by PDP and its candidate in that election only met requirements in five Local Government Areas (LGAs) and you need six LGAs to meet the requirement of two third. PDP candidate did not satisfy this requirement,” Oshiomhole added.

BREAKING: APC officially rejects INEC’s declaration of Diri as Bayelsa Governor-elect

The national body of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC has kicked against the declaration of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP’s Douye Diri as the governor-elect of Bayelsa State by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

The party rejected INEC’s decision, saying that the party will seek legal redress and go to the court to reclaim its mandate.

This was said by the National Chairman of the party, Adams Oshiomhole, in an ongoing press conference in Abuja.

Oshiomhole said INEC “illegally declared Diri as Governor-elect.”

The former Edo State Governor accused the electoral umpire of appropriating judicial powers to itself over the Supreme Court ruling.

Eagles: Yakmut, Mohammed laud Yobo’s appointment

Two sports administrators, Alhassan Yakmut and Adam Mohammed, have hailed the appointment of former Super Eagles skipper, Joseph Yobo, as assistant coach of the team.

While Yakmut is a former Director General of the defunct National Sports Commission (NSC), Mohammed is the current FCT FA boss.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in a statement on Wednesday announced the appointment of Yobo as assistant coach, and replaces Imama Amapakabo on the technical bench.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, Yakmut described the appointment as “a fantastic choice; he is a disciplined and committed ‘sweat merchant’”.

Mohammed, who described Yobo as best for the job said: “I think the appointment is a good one because he used to be Nigeria’s captain, holds a record number of caps and have played for the best leagues in the world.”

On reaction to Yobo’s qualification, Mohammed said the former Everton FC player would learn on the job.

“He is worthy of the position and have distinguised himself as a legend and an ambassador. He will learn on the job,” Mohammed said.

The FA boss added that the appointment showed that “Nigeria will not always rely on foreign coaches”.

NAN reports that the defender got his first cap for the senior team in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match away to Zambia in Chingola in April 2001, and went ahead to feature in three FIFA World Cup finals in 2002, 2010 and 2014.

He also played in six Africa Cup of Nations finals in 2002, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2010 and 2013, leading the Super Eagles to their third continental title in South Africa in 2013.

He played a total of 100 matches for Nigeria at senior level. (NAN)

EFCC, NYSC, Nigerian youths walk against corruption Nationwide

Economic Financial crime commission in collaboration with NYSC, Institutions and youths are currently walking against corruption nationwide.

According to commissioner for youths and sports, kebbi state Hon Momood Aliu, corruption is taking over Nigerian society that needs to be destroyed and it's sanity that must be resuscitated by the youths.

He advised that the Nigerian president's agenda to fight corruption can not be done alone but with the Nigerian youths.

NYSC Kebbi state Coordinator Mr. Mustapha Muhammed, said the mobilization came from the Director General of NYSC to join the EFCC in the fight against corruption nationwide. He advised Corps members serving in the state to take to nook and cranny of the state the sensitization against corruption.

At the walk was officials of the EFCC, ICPC, FRCS, State Security Service, National Orientation Agency, and the Nigerian Police force.

#EFCC

#podiumradiotv

#podiuminternational

@efcc

@kebbistate

 

Podium International Launches a Virtual Cinema on YouTube

Podium International Launches a Virtual Cinema on YouTube with Majemu Egbon movie, a Podium Film  produced by Titilola Aboyade-Cole and directed by Afeez Balogun.

Starring Antar Laniyan, Saidi Balogun, Ayou Adesanya, Tegina Chuckwu and Launching “M1-MIKKY BANJO into Nollywood all the way from the UK stage.

Mikky Banjo AKA M1 has been a theatre artiste in the UK with over 34 stage performances across London. 

He has decided to give Nollywood a shot in order to stay rooted and connected to his source.

The new film has been released on Thursday the 13th February 2020 to launch the channel that will be bringing loads of Nollywood and other African Movies to the comfort of your home.

To watch Majemu Egbon the movie, you’d have to go straight to the Podium Cinema Channel on Youtube as it won’t be available on any other platform so soon.