The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) on Monday said available statistics on young Nigerians

enrollment into Technical Colleges showed a reduction in enrollment.

NBTE’s Director of Technical Vocational and Skills Development, Mr Abbati Muhammad, made the disclosure at a National Occupational Standard Development and Classification of Dual Vocational Training (DVT) Curricula Workshop in Lagos.

Muhammad, who represented NBTE’s Executive Secretary, Dr Adamu Kazuare, at the opening ceremony of the workshop, said there was an increase in the number of Nigerians enrolling to Polytechnics.
“Let me say that in 2015, about 62, 171 young Nigerians enrolled into Nigeria Technical colleges.
“While there is a growing interest of young Nigerians today, enrollment into Technical colleges has continued to grow lower and lower,” he said.
The Director said that Nigerians were no longer interested in the colleges due to absence of training facilities, lack of commitment on the part of the providers, as well as ignorance.
Muhammad said some students were not aware of the employment opportunities that would readily await them during and immediately after their studies in the colleges.
He appealed to young Nigerians to avail themselves of the opportunities for them in technical colleges.
Muhammad commended the delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Nigeria for introducing the dual vocational training to Nigeria.
He said that many young Nigerians had so far benefited from it.
The director said the workshop was organised to forge more collaboration between the German Government, NBTE, NACCIMA as well as the Ogun and Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industry in producing National Occupational
Standard.
The National President of NACCIMA, Chief Alaba Lawson, described the workshop as being “historical”, because the private sector was prepared to work with other stakeholders in repositioning the nation’s
artisans.
According to her, Nigeria should not continue to bring in artisans from Lome and Cotonou when there are undeveloped and unutilised artisans in the country.
“We no longer want to be going to places like Lome and Cotonou to be bringing in plumbers, bricklayers and electricians.
“We need to urgently begin to restore our once enviable Technical colleges for prompt, efficient and effective services of artisans,” she said.
Mr Stephen Awoyele, the Project Coordinator of the German Dual Vocational Education Partnership with Nigeria (DVT), said the project, which commenced in 2012, was meant to increase the qualification and employability of young Nigerians.
Awoyele expressed satisfaction at the success so far recorded by DVT in the benefiting States.
He said that the German Government was also planning to train trainers for repositioning of Nigeria’s hospitality sector.
“We are soon also going to be looking at other sectors like the hospitality sector, where Nigeria currently has a dearth of skills,” he said.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/nbte-says-enrollment-in-technical.html

Thirty-two ships laden with petroleum products, food items and other goods are expected to arrive Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports in Lagos from March 26 to April 5.

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) made this known in its publication, “Shipping Position’’ in Lagos on Tuesday.

NPA said that 11 of the expected 32 ships would sail in with petrol.
It said that the remaining 21 ships contained bulk wheat, fertiliser, butane bulk sugar, ethanol, steel products, frozen fish, empty containers, general cargo and containers laden with goods.
NPA, in the publication, said that six ships had arrived the ports, waiting to berth with bulk fertiliser and petrol.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/lagos-ports-to-receive-32-ships-laden.html

United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has announced its audited results for the financial year ended December 31, 2017, showing significant growth in the contribution and market share from its pan-African subsidiaries, among other positive trends in its financial performance.

A statement from UBA at the weekend showed that the pan-African financial institution’s gross earnings grew substantially to N462 billion, up by 20 per cent from N314 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2016.


According to the report released to the Nigerian Stock Exchange on Friday, UBA delivered a strong 16 per cent year-on-year growth in profit before tax to N105 billion, compared to N90.6 billion in the 2016 financial year. Its profit after tax also leaped to N78.6 billion, an 8.8 per cent year-on-year growth compared to N72.3 billion in 2016.

The bank’s subsidiaries outside Nigeria contributed a third of the group’s top-line and 45 per cent of the profit for the year, a remarkable improvement from the 31 per cent contribution made by the ex-Nigeria offices in 2016.

This, according to market analysts, affirmed the success of the bank’s expansion strategy, with a target of 50 per cent contributions by 2020, said the statement.

The bank’s operating income grew to N326.6 billion, a 20.6 per cent increase compared to N270.9 billion recorded in 2016. This, according to analysts, affirmed the capacity of the group to deliver strong performance through varying economic cycles and a challenging business environment.

The audited results also showed that the bank’s total assets peaked at N4.07 trillion, translating to a 16.1 per cent year-on-year growth from the N3.50 trillion recorded in the 2016 financial year.

In 2017, the bank’s net loans achieved a prudent 9.7 per cent growth at N1.65 trillion, while customer deposits grew to N2.73 trillion, representing a 10 per cent YoY growth over the N2.49 trillion recorded in the 2016 financial year.

Reflecting strong internal capital generation, the bank’s shareholders’ fund also rose by 18.2 per cent to N529.4 billion in the 2017 financial year.

Subject to the approvals of the shareholders, the bank’s board proposed a final dividend of 65 kobo per every share of 50 kobo each. This final dividend proposal is in addition to the 20 kobo per share interim dividend paid after the audit of the 2017 half-year financial statements, thus putting the total dividend for 2017 financial year at 85 kobo per share.

Commenting on the results, Kennedy Uzoka, GMD/CEO of UBA, said: “The results underline the success of our strategy of expanding across Africa, diversifying revenues and capturing the broader business opportunities inherent in Africa’s growth.

“The results reinforce the sustainability of our business model and the capacity to deliver superior long-term returns to shareholders, as the economic and business environments improve.

“In 2017, we made strong progress in our strategic initiative of dominating transaction-banking across all our countries of operation, gaining market share in all lines of our business.

“Even as the non-oil sector of our largest country of operation, Nigeria, remained relatively weak, we still grew earnings by 20 per cent to N462 billion, a third of which was attributable to non-funded income.”

Also speaking on the bank’s performance, the Group Chief Finance Officer (GCFO), Ugo Nwaghodoh said: “In a period of high-interest rates, we achieved a relatively low 3.7 per cent cost of funds. This operational efficiency reflects the benefit of our rich pool of stable savings and current account deposits.

“Net interest margin stabilised at 7 per cent, even as yields on treasury assets dropped in the last quarter of 2017. Our core transaction banking offerings gained strong momentum, with income from these business lines growing by double digits.”

“We remain committed to our responsible approach to balance sheet management, with a focus on growing risk assets and a broader balance sheet in a profitable and prudent manner.

“Amidst a subdued Nigerian credit market, we grew our loan portfolio by 10 per cent, leveraging our robust liquidity and capitalisation to support good businesses through this challenging economic cycle.

“We closed the year with a Basel II capital adequacy ratio of 19 per cent and a liquidity ratio of 50 per cent, well ahead of the 15 per cent and 30 per cent regulatory requirement, respectively.

“Our disciplined approach to lending and broader risk management continue to uphold our asset quality,” he added.

Apart from the strong financial performance in 2017, the UBA Group proved its leadership on the continent as the Banker Magazine crowned the group, African Bank of the Year 2017, the statement added.

To further demonstrate the group’s strength and dominance in the financial sector on the continent, four of UBA Group’s operations in Africa also led contenders in their respective countries to emerge the Best Bank of the Year 2017.

UBA Congo, UBA Tchad, UBA Gabon and UBA Senegal emerged the Best Bank of the Year in Congo, Tchad, Gabon and Senegal, reinforcing the strong franchise of the group across its chosen markets in Africa.

UBA is a leading financial services group in sub-Saharan Africa, with a presence in 19 African countries, as well as the United Kingdom, the United States of America and France.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/uba-reports-n1053bn-pbt-recommends-n085.html

The Group Managing Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Dr Maikanti K. Baru has explained why the corporation will not, for now, resume supply of petroleum products to the NNPC depot at Emene, near Enugu, insisting that as long as the vandals continued their nefarious activities on the on oil pipelines, there would be no supply to the area.

Dr Baru also spoke on the problem of ‘profiteering’ among fuel dealers in southeast zone, particularly in Enugu and its environs where dealers sell fuel above the official price of N145 per litre, and condemned the attitude of such marketers who make fortunes at the detriment of the average consumer in the area.

The GMD who spoke during the NNPC Special Day at the on-going 29th Enugu International Trade Fair, said he had earlier held a meeting with Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi on how to make the Enugu depot functional, but he explained to him that the implication of vandalization of the oil pipelines, one of which is that “if the vandals don’t stop their negative activities on the oil pipelines, there won’t be supply to the area.”
Daily Trust reports that the NNPC depot at Emene, Enugu and the sub-depot at Osisioma in Aba, Abia State were established to service the southeast zone, including Benue and Kogi States as well as the south-south zone. But for close to 20 years, the Enugu depot has been moribund owing to the activities of vandals who destroyed oil pipelines.
Baru regretted that the NNPC has so far recorded 685 spots of vandalization of oil pipelines between the Aba and Enugu depot, maintaining that “as long as this thing continues, there’s no way we can supply petroleum products to Enugu depot.”
He said that Enugu depot is a very strategic one to the corporation, assuring the southeast zone of rehabilitation of facilities and resumption of supply of petroleum products so long as vandalization of oil pipelines was brought to an end.
On profiteering and the shylock attitude of some oil marketers in the zone, Baru said there was no reason people should be selling fuel above the official price of N145 per litre while using cost of transportation as an excuse.
“The issues are many but we need your assistance; we need your cooperation. Talk to your members,” Baru specifically told the President of the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA), Sir Emeka Udeze. The ECCIMA boss had earlier in his keynote speech, appealed to the GMD to ensure resumption of fuel supply to Enugu depot.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/why-we-wont-supply-fuel-to-enugu-depot.html

The Sokoto State Zakkat and Endowment Commission has distributed educational materials to 46 orphans and disbursed business capital to their guardians in the state.


The Chairman of the Commission, Malam Lawal Maidoki, who made this known while distributing the materials, said that the programme was to encourage the orphaned children in the state to go to school.

“This is to ensure that the 46 orphaned children are able to go back to school and become educated like those whose parents are alive."


“The gesture, however, is to support the state government’s commitment of declaring a state of emergency in the education sector of the state,” he said.


Maidoki added that the gesture was part of the commission’s commitment to cater for the less privileged in the society.


He said that each orphan was fully provided with two school uniforms, writing and reading materials, school bags and school sandals.


Maidoki said that their guardians were provided with their choice of business materials including vegetable oil, bags of rice, bags of groundnut, among others and each will get a capital of N5, 000.


He added that the orphans were selected from each of the 23 local government areas of the state by district heads in the areas.
Maidoki called on wealthy individuals to emulate Alhaji Umarun Kwabo, who established a primary school to support over 150 children orphaned by insurgency.


The District Head of Gagi, Alhaji Sani Umar, commended the efforts of the commission in supporting the less privileged in the society.


Umar called on the beneficiaries to judiciously utilise the money and materials for better living standards of the orphans under their care.


Also, Malam Amadu Mairoba, who spoke as the Guest Speaker, said that supporting orphans in the society was the fulfillment of faith among mankind.


Mairoba stated that the gesture was highly recommended in the teachings of Islam, as it purifies the heart and deeds of individuals in the society.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/46-orphans-get-educational-materials-in.html

Report reaching Akelicious from Adamawa State has it that two students of the Adamawa State Polytechnic, were killed on Thursday night following a riot in the institution.

According to competent sources from the institution, the clash involving two lovers took a religious tone following an argument.



“I was at the gate when I saw a group of students coming out with swords and sticks and they were chanting Islamic slogans, so we took to our heels knowing it was trouble,

According to him, they ran towards a roundabout in Yola called Bekaji, then they saw police vehicles being deployed towards the school to quench the riot.
“Some few minutes later, we saw some of our students who were pursued out of the school coming. They told us that the rioters killed two students before the security men could arrive the school,” he said.
Mohammed Mohammed said that, he was with his friend near the girls hostel when a group of rioters came and started beating up girls.

According to him, the students were asked to vacate the school premises this morning.
It could be recalled that the Federal University Of Technology, Yola, FUTY, has was also shutdown in February this year over students’ clash after students union politics culminated into religious crises on campus.
Findings by Akelicious revealed that the University is yet to reopen.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/adamawa-state-polytechnic-shutdown-over.html

Alhaji Dalhatu Dogara, the Chief Fire Officer of Nassarawa State, has called on residents of the state to immediately call the service in case of any fire outbreaks.

Dogara made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Lafia.

He gave the numbers which members of the public should call during emergencies as: 08130652025, 07030158046 and 08039669127, respectively.

He said that the service has embarked on a sensitisation exercise to educate members of the public on fire safety tips and it was yielding results.

The Chief Fire Officer attributed the reduction in cases of fire outbreaks to the level of synergy the service has entered into with stakeholders by sensitising them on fire safety rules.

Dogara urged Nigerians to put off all electronic appliances whenever they were leaving their homes or offices, in order to stem fire disasters.

He said the call became imperative due to the attitude of some Nigerians who were careless about putting off electronic appliances, even when they are travelling to spend weeks.

According to him, “this careless attitude by some people often resulted in avoidable fire disasters that claim people’s lives and property, worth several millions of naira.

“Even if you are at home, there is no point putting on appliances that are not being used at that particular point in time, in order to prevent fire outbreaks,” he added.

Dogara explained that lack of access roads was one of the problems hindering the effectiveness of the service in responding to distress calls in the state.

He also advised members of the public to adhere strictly to fire safety rules, in order to curtail the cases of fire incidents in the state.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/fire-outbreaks-nasarawa-fire-service.html

The Nigeria Police would set up an Explosive Ordinance (EOD) training school in Borno to check indiscriminate Improvised Explosive Device attacks by Boko Haram insurgents.

Inspector General of Police Ibrahim Idris made known on Thursday during an interactive session with officers and men of the Borno Police Command in Maiduguri.

Idris said that the school would be sited in Maiduguri, adding that work had already stated on the project which is currently at an advanced stage.

“We have deployed additional unit and sniffer dogs to Maiduguri to guard against suicide bomb attacks and to ensure enhance security,” he said.

Idris disclosed that the police had also embarked on the rehabilitation of the Mobile Police Force training school, Gwoza.

The IG assured that outstanding allowances would be paid to officers and men engaged in special assignments, as soon as the 2018 budget is passed.

Idris reiterated the commitment of the police high command towards providing modern equipment to officers and men of the force as well improve their welfare.

While commending the officers and men of the command for their commitment and outstanding performance, Idris urged them to sustain the tempo.

He also commended Gov. Kashim Shettima, and the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Garbai for their numerous support to the police.

Idris noted that such support contributed towards the success of the police operations in the state.

Also, speaking the Borno Commissioner of Police, Mr Damian Chukwu, said the commended the IG for the visit as well as his numerous support in terms of equipment supply to the command.

Chukwu listed some of the equipment supplied to the command to include five Armoured Personnel Carriers, three Armoured Personnel Vehicles, sniffer dogs among others.

He disclosed that the command had deployed 500 policemen to the counter-insurgency operation, adding more personnel were deployed to liberated communities as part of stabilisation and peace restoration process.

“Deployment of the dogs helped a great deal to curtail the spate of suicide bombing in University of Maiduguri, Muna Garage and environs.

“A full unit of mobile policemen is also deployed to the University to prevent infiltration,” Chukwu said.

He added that the command had also adopted effective measures to curtail suicide bombing, cattle rustling, drug abuse and Gender Base Violence, as well as cases of assault.

The commissioner said that the command was working in collaboration with the military and other security agencies to protect lives and property in the state.

Idris arrived Maiduguri to visit Gwoza, and Uba as well as some communities liberated form the Boko Haram terrorist group.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/nigeria-police-to-set-up-explosive.html

...Obaseki lists gains of ICT in governance

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said that his administration is ready to partner the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on job creation for youths in the state.

Obaseki disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the NCC Corporate Headquarters in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

The governor said, “My administration is also seeking collaboration with the NCC to boost broadband penetration in Edo State. We are expanding areas we can deploy Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to improve broadband penetration in the state.

He explained that his administration is ready to work with the NCC and other stakeholders in the telecommunication industry to support service providers and other investors in the state, noting, “This collaboration will assist service providers in Edo State to extend their services to the remotest towns and communities.”

Obaseki said, “The key driver of our vision to transform Edo State is to deploy ICT infrastructure and knowledge to enhance economic growth and prosperity for Edo people. My administration is focused on the use of technology and provision of telecommunication infrastructure to create jobs for youths.

“Part of the vision is to engage youths in productive ventures and provide employment opportunities for them. We are also exploring ways to deploy the use of ICT to engage youths. Our aim is to discourage youths from engaging in human and drug trafficking.”

Obaseki also said that that the state government will work with the NCC to address the challenges faced by the telecommunication industry in the state and assured, “My administration will work with the NCC to resolve several issues confronting stakeholders in the state which include; the right of way for telecommunication infrastructure, multiple taxation and regulation.”

He added that the state government will work with telecommunication operators in the state to resolve conflicts with members of local communities to allow operators access to infrastructure within safety and other regulations.”

Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, NCC, Sunday Dare, who represented the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, assured Obaseki of the commitment of the commission to partnering with Edo State Government.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/edo-govt-partners-ncc-on-job-creation.html

The All Progressives Congress (APC) national woman leader, Hajiya Dr Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, has hailed the federal government role in the release of Dapchi schoolgirls. The federal government, on Wednesday, confirmed the release of 101 students out of the 110 schoolgirls kidnapped by Boko Haram insurgents group at Government Science and Technical College in Dapchi, Yobe State. In a statement made available to Akelicious on Wednesday, Hajiya Aliyu applauded the federal government for rising up to the occasion to ensure the swift return of our girls. The statement reads in part: ‘’On behalf of Nigerian mothers and APC women, I heartily felicitate with the families of the released Dapchi girls. ‘’Our joy knows no bound because we know the agony you have endured since their abduction. Our hope is that this unfortunate episode will never occur again in our beloved country. ‘’We must also applaud the federal government for rising up to the occasion to ensure the swift return of our girls. From our President right down to the soldiers in the field, we thank you. ‘’We urge the security agencies put more effort into ensuring that we forestall future occurrence.’’

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/apc-national-woman-leader-hails-release.html

The Lagos State Government has to ensure that the various water hydrants installed along the roads within the state are always functional. Alhaji Shakirudeen Akinlagun, the chairman of Idowu-Asho Community Development Association (CDA) in Isheri Oshun area of Lagos State made the appeal in Lagos. This would help in putting out fire outbreak any time it occurred and, especially, during the dry season.The community leader said that his appeal became imperative following a fire incident that happened on Sunday night in his area involving a Camry Salon car that was burnt beyond recognition. He said that if the water hydrant installed along the recently completed Ijegun-Jakande Estate road had been functional, the residents would have pumped water from it.The water would have been used to put out the raging fire and saved the car from burning.He said, “At around 11.50 p.m. on Sunday, there was a shout of help following the bellowing of thick smoke from a Toyota Camry (Muscle) salon car with registration number EPE 419 CJ parked inside No. 7/9, Mike Ojo St., in Isheri Oshun. “Neighbours made frantic efforts using water, sand and detergent to put out the fire but it did not stop until the car was completely burnt ,’’ he said. He said that the availability of efficient water hydrant where residents could pump water from would help to arrest similar incidents in future. Akinlagun commended the joint efforts of the residents from the community, which he said saved the residents of the building from being burnt by the fire. He said that the men from the Lagos State Fire Service from Ikotun station arrived the scene shortly after the fire had been put out. Also, the owner of the car, Mr Emmanuel Nwachukwu, who was visibly distraught told NAN that he had not driven the car for a week. Nwachukwu said that he only re-parked the car on Sunday morning when his neighbour wanted to move out his own car. He said that having retired to bed that night, it was his landlady’s alarm that his car was burning that woke him from sleep.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/community-leader-tasks-lasg-on.html

With N19.2 billion and good effort between Ondo State government and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), it would take less than 30 minutes to drive from Ondo to Lagos on a 50-kilometre stretch.

This will be made possible as Ondo State government and the NDDC have jointly flagged off the construction of the N19.2 billion Araromi-Akodo/Ibeju-Lekki Road, connecting Ondo and Lagos states.

Speaking at the ceremony to mark the commencement of work on the 50-kilometre road at the Araromi Seaside, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu described the event as “epoch-making and indescribable.”

Governor Akeredolu said: “This is the project for us. To link our state almost seamlessly to Lagos is the big deal. It has been our vision and we thank God that it is now being realised.”

Akeredolu expressed optimism that the project would be delivered before the expiration of the tenure of the current NDDC Board, thanking the Commission for partnering his administration to provide good governance to the people.
In his remarks, the chairman of the NDDC board, Victor Ndoma-Egba, said the Commission was focusing on projects that would truly integrate the Niger Delta region. Ndoma-Egba, therefore, urged all the governors in the region to emulate their Ondo State counterpart in collaborating with the NDDC.

He said people should discard the notion that NDDC projects were hardly completed; assuring that the Ondo regional road project would be executed faithfully. He also assured that the Omotosho-Okitipupa electrification project would be completed soon.

In his speech at the occasion, the NDDC managing director, Nsima Ekere, recalled that the Commission had on Tuesday, April 4, 2017, signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ondo State government to build the 50.918km road.

Ekere said: “The Araromi-Akodo/Ibeju-Lekki Road will connect the agricultural-rich communities of Araromi seaside – Igbo Erelu, Eba, Awodikora, Elefon, Ode-Omi, Imedu, Igboguna, Akodo in Ondo State with Ise in Ibeju – Lekki area of Lagos States.

“It is the first part of the very important coastal road project, which the Federal Government has conceived to link our coastal towns with a strategic road network. On completion, it will cut travel time between Ondo State and Lagos to less than one hour, and facilitate easy evacuation of agricultural produce from these communities.”

He explained that the main alignment from Irokun to Ise was 36.035km, with seven different spurs totalling 14.883km. He observed that because of the difficult terrain, it would cost a total of N19.274 billion at an average cost of N378.5 million per kilometre.

Under the current NDDC board, more attention would be focused on projects that would engender sustainable and comprehensive regional economic and social integration of the Niger Delta, he said.

He said: “Very shortly, the Commission will conclude and execute similar partnership projects with Edo and Delta State Governments for the construction of the Benin-Abraka Road and Omadino-Okerenkoko-Escravos Road. We are also looking to partner with the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing, for the construction of the Abak-East-West Road.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/photos-nddc-ondo-begin-n19bn-coastal.html

Of recent, big brother has decided to entertain the #bbnaija housemates as a type of reward for their good behaviour by providing them with various games to keep them busy.

The island in the dressing room has almost become the centre of gravity of the #bbnaija House, due to the games available there.

What started on a makeshift table, with book covers as tennis rackets, and a rolled up towel serving as a net, has increased bonding amongst the three alpha male #bbnaija housemates who seem to delight in this ping-pong game.

Teddy A, Miracle and Tobi have taken turns around the improvised table tennis court and sometimes at odd hours of the day and night, just for the fun and relaxation of it.
For some reason, the #bbnaija Housemates did not seem to take to the jacuzzi or water games, for it has remained mostly covered and protected by the canvas cover.
Biggie’s House was fitted with all the amenities to ensure they have a pleasant stay, yet and unlike previous cohorts, the #bbnaija Housemates have failed to take advantage of it.
Perhaps the early pairing and romantic games may have influenced them into keeping their distances from the hot tub. Yet there were a few times where relaxing in the heated outdoor pool would have helped some of their spirits to cool-off.
The #bbnaija Housemates seem to have developed a real appetite for strategy games, and for a good reason too. There has been more than a dew times where the housemates could be seen focusing intensely on Ludo board games, a game that demands a sustained focus and fast analysis skills as well as endurance.
It is during matches that hearts poured out (half) open as much as their resentments sharpened. The Housemates also seemed to enjoy playing cards, especially after a good drink which has lead more than a few to lose and resulted in general hilarity.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/bbnaija-2018-day-50-housemates-burn.html

The Presidential Committee for the North-East Initiative ( PCNI ) has commenced the training of 300 primary school teachers on trauma control and other psycho-social support in Adamawa.

Declaring the training open in Yola on Monday, the Chairman of the Committee, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma, the training was designed to enhance the capacity of the teachers to support parents and pupils affected by the insurgency.

Danjuma, who was represented by Alhaji Ibrahim Bapatel, Senior Special Assistant to President on Policy Development Analysis, said the participants would also be equipped in peace building skills.

He added that the training would last for one week.


“The workshop is in line with the Buhari plan and the PCNI core mandate aimed at improving the content delivery and skill of primary school teachers from the states of North-East in post-conflict situation.

“The training Module includes Intensive Teaching Techniques, Conflict/Disaster Risk Reduction and Psycho-social support training,” Danjuma said.

In his remarks, Alhaji Saidu Komsori, the state Director, Quality Assurance, Universal Basic Education Board, said that over 25,000 teachers were expected to benefit from the training.

Komsori said that participants were drawn from insurgency-affected areas in order to expose them to teaching principles and techniques.

According to him, about 25,000 pupils were directly affected by the insurgency in the state.

He further said that the training would go a long way in assisting and improving social activities in the state.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/pcni-trains-300-teachers-on-trauma.html

Renowned Nigeria social media influencers, advocates, celebrities and concerned Nigerians took to the street of Lagos sparking spontaneous protests against rape, assault and domestic violence.


They joined several concerned Nigerians from different sectors of the society to create awareness and encourage victims to speak up.
The seventh edition of the much awaited walk against rape campaign was held on Wednesday, March 15th 2018 in support of the ongoing war against rape in the country and in commemoration of the International Women’s Day.

The walk which is aimed at creating awareness and lending a voice to sexually abused persons (particularly women and children) in the society was a huge success as people came out enmasse to participate and speak up against rape.

The hashtag #Walkaagainstrape didn’t only dominate social media conversations on Wednesday, but it also trended on social media.

According to the National Coordinator, Walk Against Rape, Esther Ijewere:”We appreciate Governor Akinwunmi Ambode for his recent declaration of 25 years jail term for rapist and perpetrators of all forms of domestic violence.

However we have this one demand to make and it is for the REJUVENATION OF THE JUSTICE SYSTEM AND LAWS!, There should be a more transparent justice system to tackle sexual crimes, create and enforce existing laws that protect women from discrimination and violence, including rape, poundings, torture and all forms of verbal abuse. We call on the government to revive the justice system for people to have firm faith in it.

Project Fame Finalist, singer and actress, Immaculate Edache who was also part of the Walk Against Rape said:” Rape is an unjustified act that is injurious to the human soul. Therefore rape is a crime that shouldn’t be taken lightly”.

The walk cum demonstration started from the Archbishop Vining Memorial church (AVMC) ground and ended at the Ministry of Women Affairs, Alausa, Ikeja.

The feedback, engagement and interaction gotten from the walk indicates that more and more awareness needs to be created in order to combat the scourge of rape

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/photos-hundreds-protest-walk-against.html

Is this another confusion or one of them is not aware?

12th Mar -PMB said we chose to negotiate with Boko Haram. 18th Mar- Defence Min said Military will soon rescue abducted girls. Negotiation= Girls are released after payment. Military option= Girls are rescued NO payment.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/is-this-another-confusion-or-one-of.html

The two-week long bullish performance in the Nigerian stocks market came to a halt last week as investors lost N506 billion despite broadly positive corporate releases during the week. The All Share Index plunged 1,231 points or 2.85 per cent week-on-week to close at 41,935.90 points while year-to-date return declined to 9.66 per cent. Also, investors lost N506 billion in value as market capitalisation fell to N15.002 trillion. Capital market analysts attributed the bearish performance of last week to sell pressures in bellwethers in the Banking and Consumer Goods sectors such as Zenith Bank, Nestle and Guaranty Trust Bank, which all released impressive results for full year, 2017. Performance across sectors was largely negative as all indices closed in the red save the Insurance index, which inched 0.25 per cent higher on the back gains in NEM Insurance and Mansard Insurance. The Banking index led laggards, down 8.35 per cent dragged by profit taking in UBA, Zenith Bank and Access Bank. The Oil and Gas and Consumer Goods indices trailed with a decline of 1.64 per cent and 1.59 per cent, respectively as investors sold off positions in Conoil, Seplat, Unilever Nigeria and Dangote Sugar. Similarly, sell offs in CCNN and Dangote Cement drove the negative performance of the Industrial Goods index week-on-week down by 0.24 per cent. Market breadth for the week closed negative with 25 gainers as against 60 losers. Associated Bus Company led the gainers by 14.29 percent increase to close at 48 kobo per share. John Holt followed with a gain of 12.50 percent to close at 54 kobo, while NEM Insurance appreciated by 11.57 percent to close at N2.70 per share On the other hand, Japaul Oil led the losers table by 30.93 percent to close at 67 kobo per share. Fidelity Bank declined by 22.48 percent to close at N2.31, while Unity Bank shed 21.51 percent to close at N1.35 per share. Similarly, activity level softened as weekly volume and value traded declined 8.29 per cent and 20.56 per cent to 2.444 billion shares worth N36.665 billion in 26,712 deals. Outlook For This Week This week, analysts expected bullish activity in the market as investors re-position to take advantage of the lower prices amid good corporate results released last week. Analysts at Cordros Capital Limited said, “Despite the loss recorded last week, we reiterate our positive outlook for the equities market, as strengthening macroeconomic fundamentals suggest legroom for gains still exist.” Analysts at Afrinvest Limited noted that “although the market performed negatively last week, we believe this has created bargain hunting opportunities. Hence, we expect a rebound in the market as investors take position in fundamentally sound stocks that declined.”

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/investors-lose-n506bn-despite.html

The United Labour Congress (ULC) has taken a swipe at the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), saying the leadership has failed Nigerian workers particularly in its inability to defend their yearnings, aspirations and fight for their rights frontally. The ULC President, Comrade Joe Ajaere stated this at the weekend in Kaduna during the zonal council meeting of the labour union while lamenting that the leadership of NLC had failed to fight for the right of its members who have not been paid their salaries for months, while most retirees are yet to be paid their entitlements and pensions after many years of meritorious service. In the same vein, the ULC said it has passed a vote of no confidence on the leadership, assuring that the ULC which has come to stay will provide a formidable alternative that will fight for the welfare and wellbeing of their members and affiliates and by extension the entire Nigerian workers. According to the ULC National President who was represented by the deputy national president, Comrade Igwe Achese, “NLC has failed Nigerian workers. You will see the impact of the failure. The pains, the agony on Nigerian workers, there is no much to say over this than to say without fear or favour unequivocally that NLC has totally failed. “In some of the states up till today, Nigerian workers have not received their salaries, pensioners whom are affiliates of NLC are yet to receive their pensions. “These are workers who have put in their best, and all their sacrifices to get Nigeria to where it is today, and they are retired and cannot be paid, and NLC is sitting down there doing nothing emphatically about it. He said,”the only hope for the Nigerian workers today is the United Labour Congress.” Speaking further, he said, “It is sad to hear the story of corruption and fraud activities in NSITF, where labour leader from the NLC are members and as board members, and you here that in one day, N5 billion of workers hard earned contribution is being withdrawn and unaccounted for. “These are the issues we talk about , that Nigerian workers should rise up and begin to ask questions of their future, because we need a labour union like ULC to move this country and the labour movement forward”. On whether or not the ULC has gained recognition, he said ULC has the deserved recognition and will remain unshakable despite the heap of intimidation and petitions against her by the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the NLC. He said “Nothing can stop ULC from being recognized. I will say this again that ULC have come to stay , because where ever we are today, Nigerians are expecting us to continue to work. That is why we have this meeting to sensitize our state chairmen to go out and begin to work to restore that lost hope of Nigerian workers. “ ULC is ably represented as a member at the ongoing deliberation on minimum wage set up by the federal government and ULC will collaborate will government to bring hope and smile on the faces of Nigerian workers,” he said. Meanwhile, the National secratary of the union, Comrade Didi Adodo at the council meeting also corroborated his president on NLC’s failure to protect the interest of Nigerian workers. Adodo said, “some wrong people have found themselves in the leadership of the labour movement, and that is what we want to change with the formation of the United Labour Congress.” He further said, “it was a vote of no confidence passed on the leadership of NLC that led to the formation of United Labour Congress”.

http://www.akelicious.net/2018/03/nlc-has-failed-nigerian-workers-ulc.html

President Muhammadu Buhari has rejected the amendment to the Electoral Act, which intended to change the country's elections sequence, Daily Trust has learnt.

The president, it was gathered, gave three reasons for withholding assent to the bill, which was passed by both chambers of the National Assembly.

Sources told Daily Trust that the president has yesterday communicated his decision to the federal legislature in two separate letters addressed to the Senate President Bukola Saraki and Speaker Yakubu Dogara.

The two presiding officers are expected to read the letters to their colleagues at plenary between today and Thursday.

Following the passage of the bill by the National Assembly, several civil society organizations (CSOs), senior lawyers and other notable Nigerians kicked against it, calling on the president not to assent to it.

http://akelicious..com/2018/03/breaking-buhari-rejects-electoral-act.html

President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday said he was ‘surprised’ that the Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris disobeyed his directives to stay in Benue until the bloodletting between farmers and herdsmen was resolved.

Mr. Buhari also said his government was deeply worried about the incessant attacks on Benue’s rural communities and vowed to end the menace “very soon”.

The president, in the wake of public outcry that greeted the murder of over 70 persons by suspected herdsmen had instructed the IGP to relocate to the state until the carnage was contained. The police boss had reportedly spent less than 24 hours in the state before leaving; attracting more condemnation from Nigerians even as the presidency failed to reprimand him.Mr. Buhari, who met with farmers, herdsmen, government officials and other stakeholders in Makurdi on Monday as part of his visits to troubled states however, denied insinuations that he was not interested in what was happening to Benue state.

“I cannot overlook the killings in Benue or any other part of Nigeria. I cannot do that. I am genuinely worried about the attacks in Benue and we are doing everything to end them,” he said.

He said that the insecurity in some states was a major concern to his government, adding that concerted efforts were being made to restore normalcy to every part of the country.

Mr. Buhari said that he was surprised at the revelation that the IGP did not spend 24 hours in Benue, when he directed him to relocate to the state and remain there till peace was restored.

“I am getting to know this in this meeting. I am quite surprised,” he said.

He, however, said that the meeting was not the best place to expose the inefficiency of his appointees, and appealed to Benue people to exercise restraint and live in peace with their neighbours.

Why the president did not know that IGP Idris disobeyed his order remained unclear. PREMIUM TIMES had on February 1 published an exclusive report detailing how the police boss failed to relocate to Benue as directed by Mr. Buhari [READ THAT REPORT HERE]

But in his speech on Monday, Mr. Buhari appealed to the people to pay more attention to farming, especially rice cultivation, saying that rice importation had dropped by 90 per cent since some states embarked on massive production of the commodity.

Speaking earlier, Governor Samuel Ortom appealed to the president to upgrade the ongoing military exercise in the state tagged “Ayem Akpatema”, to a wider operation to effectively curb herdsmen attacks.

“If the exercise is upgraded to a wider operation, it will assist greatly in ending the incessant attacks and senseless killings by herdsmen,” he said

He urged Benue people to learn to live in peace with other people.

Mr. Ortom said that many states were currently involved in massive cultivation of rice, and urged his people to join the trend.

The governor reiterated his call for the arrest of the leadership of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, alleging that the body was responsible for the killings in Benue.

Mr. Ortom maintained that ranching was the best option for cattle breeding in Nigeria, and advised herdsmen to embrace it so as to minimise the clashes caused by open grazing.

He also called on the federal government to take over the management of the Benue University Teaching Hospital, College of Education, Katsina-Ala and Benue Polytechnic, Ugbokolo.

Shetima Mohammed, a representative of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Benue Chapter, however, denied responsibility for the Benue attacks.

“Our association is a peace-loving one and the exact opposite of what is being portrayed,” he declared.

http://akelicious..com.ng/2018/03/im-surprised-igp-idris-disobeyed-my.html

The Oba of Benin Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, has placed curse on perpetrators of human trafficking and their collaborators including native doctors and priests who administer oath of secrecy on victims.

The Oba placed the curse yesterday in Benin City, while meeting with Enogie, Edionwere, and priests of different deities in Benin and native doctors at his palace.

Others, who attended the meeting, are senior and junior priests of Okhuaihe, senior and junior priests of Ovia, all priests in Iyekogba, all priests of Ake, all priestesses and native doctors as well as market women leaders.

He said the oath of secrecy administered on the victims has been encouraging the illegal trade called on all native doctors to shun the act and join hands with the palace to attract development and progress to the kingdom.


“It is reported that at the beginning the traffickers take their victims to native doctors to take oath that they will not disclose the names of their traffickers and sponsors.

“Your power is to fight for the progress of Benin kingdom and not to be used for the destruction of our young people”.

He also invoked his power as the spiritual leader of Benin kingdom nullified all the oaths of secrecy administered on all victims of human trafficking and urged them to speak out and seek assistance.

While disclosing that statistics from relevant agencies reveal that most of those trafficked in Nigeria are from Benin, Oba Ewuare deplored the practice where gainfully employed artisans sell their working tools to pay their traffickers.

“We have some people gainfully employed as mechanics, welders, tailors, selling their working tools to pay traffickers to take them to Italy, Germany.


“Those, who traffic people to Italy, Germany and other countries first take them to Libya where they are enslaved”.

He urged the native doctors to tell all victims of human trafficking to speak out as all oaths of secrecy have been nullified.

“From today, we no longer want to hear of human trafficking in Benin.I hope those who have been involved in this illegal trade will stop from today.

“All native doctors who have administered oath of secrecy on victims of human trafficking should also tell those they administered such oath on to speak out.

“Am appealing to all native doctors to stop administering such oaths on trafficked victims and all such oaths are hereby nullified.

“No native doctor should do any charm for any potential illegal migrant to cross international border. Those who did it before now are forgiven and whoever does it from today will face the wrought of our ancestors”, the monarch warned.

Speaking with newsmen after the royal pronouncement, zonal commander, National Agency for the Prohibition in Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP, Barrister Nduka Nwanwennee pointed out that the Oba’s intervention is a significant milestone in the war against human trafficking and illegal migration.

“Before now, victims of human trafficking rarely open up to give evidence in court because of they have taken. They are afraid and believe that the oath will have effect on them as the native doctors who administered such oaths have their personal items like finger nails, pubic hair, menstrural pads, pants, photographs etc.

“Now that those oaths have been nullified by the monarch, our power of prosecution has been enhanced and we can now rescue more victims,” he said.

http://www.akelicious.com/2018/03/oba-of-benin-moves-against-human.html

The United States Secretary of State, Rex Tillerson, on Thursday warned African countries about receiving loan facilities from the Chinese government.

Tillerson advised that loans from China should be weighed carefully and admitted that Washington was not trying to keep Chinese investment away from African continent.


On Tuesday, Tillerson said China “encouraged dependency, utilised corrupt deals and endangered Africa’s natural resources.”
On Thursday, during his first trip to Africa, the US diplomat told a news conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, that African leaders need to carefully consider their agreements with China.
“We are not in any way attempting to keep Chinese ‘dollars’ from Africa. But it is important that African countries carefully consider the terms of those agreements and not forfeit their sovereignty.”
Tillerson added that Chinese investments, “do not bring significant job creation locally” and criticised how the country structures loans to African governments, saying if a government accepts a Chinese loan and “gets into trouble”, it can “lose control of its own infrastructure or its own resources through default.”

He is also billed to visit Nigeria.

http://www.akelicious.com/2018/03/us-warns-nigeria-over-loans-from-china.html

Claims that last week’s shooting, which led to the death of 30-year old Kehinde Adeleke at Pete’s Lounge and Bar in Ibadan, was carried out by the bar owner, Mr. Seyi Olusa, have been disputed by people who claimed to have witnessed the incident.

The leisure facility, located within the Trans Amusement Park in the Oyo State capital, was subsequently ordered shut by the management of the facility.

The Oyo State Police Command, on Wednesday, announced that it has commenced an investigation into the incident. Spokesman of the command, Mr. Adekunle Ajisebutu, stated that the suspected killer will be charged to court at the end of the investigation. He, however, warned that the investigation may take a while to be concluded. Mr. Olusa is currently in police custody.

“The police will not hurry in their investigation. We will do a thorough investigation so that we will be able to ensure that the actual culprit is apprehended. Then, the case will be charged to court for prosecution,” said Ajisebutu.

Accounts of the incident have been wildly discrepant. Twin brother of the victim, Taiwo Adeleke, claimed that it was Mr. Olusa, the bar owner, who shot the victim after snatching a rifle from a soldier attached Operation Burst, the code name for the state government’s anti-crime outfit, at the car park of Trans Amusement Park.

However, people who claimed to have been at the scene of the incident said it was the soldier, not the bar owner that fired the killer shot. According to three of them, Mr. Olusa was not at the car park when the incident occurred. Alli Akinoso, one of those who said they watched the incident happen, said the deceased and Mr. Olusa were friends and the latter had no reason to kill him. He wondered how the bar owner could have snatched the rifle, shot the victim and calmly returned it to the soldier afterward.

“I was at the car park and witnessed the whole thing. Kehinde’s younger brother, Damola, was having a fight with someone over the parking lot. I tried to talk to him, but he did not listen. Then, a soldier came and beat him with a stick. He fell down and we offered him water. But he did not accept it. When Kehinde showed up, Damola stood up and approached the soldier violently.

“I saw the siblings struggling with the soldier. That was when the shooting began. Kehinde fell to the ground. I tried to resuscitate him but there was nothing I could do. Taiwo was not on the scene; he was at the bar. He only came after the shooting, and I was the first person he saw. He attacked me and tore my clothes. I still have the clothes with the victim’s blood on it,” said Akinoso.

He explained that Mr. Olusa came out at the time the disagreement began and tried to intervene, but went back after men of Operation Burst arrived at the scene, apparently in the belief that they could take care of the matter.

“I saw him on the scene when the fight started. He was trying to mediate but left when the Operation Burst team came. The car park is about 100 metres to the bar. He was not there when the shot was released. It is difficult to snatch a rifle from a soldier and return it after using the same gun to kill,” he contended.



The witnesses called on the Army to produce the killer soldier.But the twin brother of the deceased, Taiwo, claimed that Mr. Olusa was arrested by his friends after the shooting and handed over to officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) attached toOperation Burst, who later freed him.

However, his claim was challenged by, Yinka Fabunmi, another person who claimed to have witnessed the shooting. Fabunmi stated that he was the one that was arrested and not the bar owner.

“I have an office at Trans Amusement Park and I visit the bar regularly. The place became rowdy soon after the shooting. Olusa was with me inside the bar. He wanted to know what happened after we heard the shooting. Suddenly, Taiwo came in and grabbed him. He said the soldiers who were called to the scene had killed Kehinde.

“Then, Damola took a bottle and smashed in on my face. I was taken to a vehicle but managed to escape when the soldiers intervened. Olusa was never apprehended. I slept at J. Rapha Hospital at Bodija for treatment,” he said.

Taiwo’s version of events had it that Mr. Olusa shot his twin brother during a heated argument over alleged parking a wrong place.

“On Monday evening, my twin brother and I, as well as our younger brothers went to Pete’s Bar and Lounge at Trans Amusement Park, Samonda, Ibadan, to relax, as we have been doing since 2015. After arriving there, we asked one of our younger brothers to get us food from Hexagon at Samonda. After 10 minutes, one of our two brothers ran in to tell us that our other brother who drove the car was being beaten by officers of the Operation Burst alongside the owner of the bar," he claimed.

Taiwo added that he and his twin brother rushed out to find out what was happening. He claimed that they met Mr. Olusa in the company of Operation Burst’s operatives. Taiwo further claimed that he and his twin brother expressed their dismay with the alleged treatment meted out to their younger brother over improper parking of his car.

“My twin brother told the bar owner that he could have called us out of the bar where we came to spend our money for his business, to inform us of our brother’s wrongdoing instead of beating him.

“Probably they were irked by the way Kehinde spoke, the bar owner responded angrily, saying: ‘Am I the one you are addressing like that? Am I your age mate?’ He pulled the gun off the shoulder of one of the operatives and that was how a shot rang out and hit my brother," alleged Taiwo.

Immediately the operatives saw that Kehinde had been hit, added Taiwo, the soldier whose gun was used started firing shots into the air and ran into a nearby bush. He said he held on to Mr. Olusa and started saying he had killed his brother.

“We insisted on arresting the person who shot my brother. Meanwhile, my brother was already losing blood. We took him to three different hospitals, starting from the University College Hospital (UCH) to Police Hospital, Eleyele and Molly Hospital, Idi-Ape. He was later certified dead and the Divisional Crime Officer of Sango police station, where we reported the case, later accompanied us to Adeoyo General Hospital, Ring Road, where his dead body was deposited,” said Taiwo.

Another narrative, provided by a security guard at the facility, equally absolved Mr. Olusa and blamed the victim’s death on a stray bullet. The guard, Alade Samuel, said he was at the when the altercation over the parking space began. According to him, Damola, younger brother to the deceased, who had earlier parked his car at a particular spot at the parking lot, left the premises briefly. When he returned, he discovered that another customer had parked at the spot he vacated. Samuel said Damola ordered the new customer to move his car, but the man declined, arguing that it is a public place.

Damola, Samuel said, responded by blocking the customer’s car with his own. This led to a heated argument, which degenerated into a scuffle.

“It was their noise that attracted our boss (Mr.Olusa) and some other people came out to settle the dispute, but Damola was adamant. He insisted on beating the guy. While that was going on, the Operation Burst team came in and many people including, Mr. Olusa and his friends returned to their tables. The soldier asked Damola and the new customer to kneel down, but Damola refused and the soldier hit him on the head with the cane in his hand and he went down immediately. He asked one of the people around to call his brothers,” he said.

When his brothers came, he got up and started shouting at the soldiers. Taiwo and Damola, said Samuel, attempted to snatch the soldier’s gun. The soldier resisted the attempt and started shooting into the air to scare them away. The security guard said both brothers had once slapped a military man and it was Mr. Olusa that intervened to stop the matter from escalating. The guard said it was one of the stray bullets that hit the deceased. What followed, he added, was that about 20 men arrived with broken bottles and other weapons.

Since the incident, the facility has been shut. According to Mr. Yinka Fatoki, Executive Secretary, Oyo State Bureau of Investment Promotion and Public-Private Partnerships, in a statement, said the state government agrees with the decision of the management of the park to shut it down. The management had earlier served a three-month quit notice to Pete’s Bar & Lounge, effective January 12, 2018.

In a letter to the owner of Pete’s Bar, dated 17 November 2017, the management of Trans Wonderland accused the bar of selling and promoting the use of illicit drugs.

http://www.akelicious.com/2018/03/ibadan-lounge-bar-shooting-controversy.html

Abundant Nigeria Renewal Party (ANRP) has raised questions about the sources of funding of N14.8 billion 2018 budget of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress, APC as announced by the National Treasurer, of the party, Mr. Bala Gwagwarwa

Mr Gwagwarwa was quoted to have said APC would generate N2.4 billion at the rate of N100 million from each of the 24 states under its control and another N1.05 billion from eminent members of the party in non-APC states to fund the budget.



But Sesugh Akume, National Spokesman for ANRP in a statement on Wednesday said APC’s intention to raise N100m from the 24 states under its ‘control’ especially when some of the states are known to be owing over 12 months in unpaid salaries and pensions of retired workers is a demonstration of impunity and insensitivity to the plight of suffering Nigerians.“It is now clear where APC priority lies: in mere politics and self-serving interests, not in being of service to our people,” the party said.

The party also noted that going by APC's income projections, N2.4 billion with N1.05 billion is N3.45 billion, ANRP wondered if the outstanding N11.37 billion balance come from 100 naira monthly donations by members as APC stated.

The party reminds APC That the Electoral Law clearly stipulates that the maximum amount any individual or body corporate may donate to political parties is N10 million.

“This law applies to all, APC included. ANRP is interested in knowing these 'eminent' Nigerians who would be donating billions of naira to finance APC.

ANRP also reiterated its objections to the use of public funds to finance parties and elections.

“This is not acceptable, ANRP rejects it. ANRP raises money from crowdfunding and freewill donations, etc. Our books are also open for scrutiny”

“APC (as every other political party) will have to show where every dime of their financing comes from. APC must be transparent and accountable about their financing. They must do the right thing, and follow ANRP's example.

The party added that plans by APC to spend a stupendous N500 million on vehicles for their National Working Committee (NWC) officers, that is, N25 million each for 20 vehicles from its 2018 budget is the replication of the same culture of wastage and misgoverning across all levels that the ruling party has foisted on all arms of government and at all levels since it came to power.

“Under the APC government Nigeria has this 2018 become the country with the highest number of people living in abysmal poverty, and also the highest percentage of the population living in such dire poverty.

“The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) also releases reports that demonstrate that millions of jobs are lost every quarter, businesses dying, as well as increasing hardship with more people falling into penury daily.

“Yet, APC feel no sense of responsibility and have chosen to continue in their ways of lavish spending. Nigerians now know better on how to decide,” ANRP said.

The party said it will closely monitor campaign financing to ensure that the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC performs its constitutionally assigned task of task of ensuring strict compliance to laws related to financing of elections and that violators of the laws are punished.

http://www.akelicious.com/2018/03/abundant-party-raises-alarm-over-apcs.html

A 31-year-old businessman, Anthony Okonji, who changes money, was on Wednesday brought before an Igbosere Magistrates’ Court in Lagos for allegedly obtained 30, 840 dollars (about N9.8 million) under the guise of supplying the naira equivalent.The accused, whose residential address was not given, is standing trial on a two-count charge of conspiracy and fraud. The Prosecutor, SP Susan Ezema, told the court that the accused committed the offences between May 23 and May 25, 2017 in Lagos and Kano.She said the accused obtained 30, 840 dollars (equivalent of N9.8 million) under the pretext of supplying the naira equivalent to the complainant, Yusuf Zakanji.The offences contravened Sections 312 (3) and 323 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

Section 312 prescribes 15 years jail term for false pretences, while Section 323 provides seven years for conspiracy to defraud, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.The accused denied the charge. The Magistrate, Mr W. B. Balogun, granted the accused bail in the sum of N5 million with two sureties in like sum.He said the sureties must be gainfully employed, have property in Lagos State and show evidence of three years tax payment.The case was adjourned until May 17.

http://www.akelicious.com/2018/03/money-changer-faces-n98m-fraud-charge.html

As part of efforts to diversify the economy and increase local production in sectors where Nigeria has comparative and competitive advantages, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Hajia Aisha Abubakar has constituted a stakeholders committee for the development of policy framework to boost the dairy industry.

While addressing the stakeholders, the Minister represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Edet Sunday Akpan urged members to bear on the work of the committee so as to develop a roadmap that will move the production of dairy products in Nigeria from its current position to rank among the foremost dairy producers in the world.

The Minister added that the industry was capable of producing millions of jobs and generating about N300 billion monthly into the country’s coffers if the right technology and infrastructure are put into place. Hajia Abubakar disclosed that about $1.3 billion is spent annually on the importation of dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese and other milk derivatives.

She added that with the increasing population, the consumption is expected to grow further. The Minister lamented, that available statistics shows that there are about 19.5 million cattle, 85% of which are owned by individuals and managed by indigenous small holder, subsistence and nomadic herdsmen while the rest is owned by medium and large scale farmers in managed pastures.

The objective of the policy framework is to attract and achieve local participation in dairy business; ensure local content development of dairy; encourage joint venture opportunities across strategic segments of the dairy business and provide financial relief to boost local growth through the participation of women and youths in the sector.

Members of the committee were drawn from the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Raw Materials, Research and Development Council and the National Animal Production Research Institute.

Others are: Nigeria Customs Service, Central Bank of Nigeria, National Agency for Food Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture and the Private Sector groups such the Commercial Dairy Ranchers Association of Nigeria (CODARAN), Friesland Campina WAMCO, PROMASIDOR, Arla Foods as well as L&Z Integrated Farms.

UMAR MARYAM YUSUF
For: DD Press

http://www.akelicious.com/2018/03/fg-moves-to-boost-dairy-industry.html

The controversial official of the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Philomina Chieshe, who claimed that the board’s N36 million was swallowed by a snake, has made a U-turn. She has now revealed that the missing money was not swallowed by a reptile but by a superior officer of the commission. Akelicious recalls that Chieshe, who works as a clerk at the JAMB office in Makurdi, Benue State, had told top officials of the examination body that a “mysterious snake” had swallowed the money derived from the sale of JAMB scratch cards when an enquiry was conducted into the matter of missing money. However, when she appeared before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), she confessed that the money was collected by one Samuel Umoru, her superior. It was gathered that the EFCC had interrogated Chieshe on several occasions since she made headlines with the sensational claim in February. “The interesting aspect of the disclosure is that Chieshe’s statement (on snake swallowing the money) was obtained long before the snake and naira swallowing testimony became public knowledge,” an EFCC official was quoted as saying. “In all her statements before the EFCC, there was no mention of any episode of any snake and the disappearance of monies in her care. “In a fact-sheet regarding the investigations, Chieshe was quoted to have said her superior — the coordinator at the Markurdi office — had asked her to withdraw the N36 million.” According to a report in the Nation, the fact-sheet notes that “contrary to her claim before the leadership of the examination body that the N36 million proceeds from the sale of scratch cards were eaten up by a snake, Chieshe told operatives of the anti-graft agency that the money was collected piecemeal from her by her coordinator, Mr. Samuel Sale Umoru. “In one of the statements she volunteered to the EFCC, Chieshe, who is a clerk in the Makurdi office of JAMB, revealed that the coordinator usually asked her to withdraw proceeds of the sale of the scratch cards from her account in two new generation banks. “This money I withdrew, the coordinator used it for the office and sometimes for himself,” she was quoted to have said, adding that she had been warning Umoru “that it was improper to use the money for miscellaneous expenses in the office or for private purposes but he would not listen.” The fact-sheet added that the coordinator did not deny the allegations and had been released on administrative bail. It listed other JAMB officials being probed to include Tanko Labaran, who could not account for N23 million from the sale of scratch cards at the Nasarawa office, and Yakubu Jakada who is yet to explain the whereabouts of N20 million e-facilities cards sold in Kano office. The suspects are said to have been released on bail pending the conclusion of investigation.

http://www.akelicious.com/2018/03/jamb-official-recants-says-n36m.html

The data mining efforts of the federal government through the Federal Ministry of Finance has identified a new batch of over 130,000 high net worth individuals and companies that have potential tax underpayments.

The Honorable Minister of Finance, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, revealed this on Tuesday while appearing on the Good Morning Nigeria programme of the Nigerian Television Authority.

The Minister disclosed that the data was currently being compiled by Project Lighthouse in preparation for the closure of the ongoing Voluntary Assets and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS), which ends on 31st March 2018.

Project Lighthouse is a unique project of the Federal Ministry of Finance that combines data from federal and state agencies and overseas countries.

She said, “The data have been received from a number of sources including land registries of the governments of Lagos, Kaduna, Kano and Ogun States as well as the Federal Capital Territory."

“In addition, Nigeria has been able to request data from a number of nations including traditional tax havens. The data have been received from a number of foreign jurisdictions under the exchange of information protocols."

“Under the exchange of information protocols, this information relates to bank records and financial filings for tax purposes and is obtained from tax havens who are signatories to the information sharing agreements such as British Virgin Islands and Mauritius.”

She explained that the data received from overseas countries would only be used for taxation purposes in line with the protocols governing the exchange of information

“The sole interest of the federal and state governments in the use of the data is in raising tax revenues. There is absolutely no hidden agenda on the use of the data,” she added.

Mrs. Adeosun hailed the ‘unprecedented’ level of cooperation between the federal and state governments, which she said was a marked change from the past when the various arms of government did not align their efforts.

She identified the common violations by non-compliant tax payers to include:

· Under-declaration of and non-declaration of income earned including income from government contracts and overseas trading;

· Collection of Value Added Tax (VAT) which is not duly remitted to FIRS;

· Charging of non-allowable personal expenses to company accounts particularly with reference to overseas school fees;

· Inconsistency between income declared for tax purposes and the value of assets owned.

She advised non-compliant tax payers to seek professional advice and to also consult relevant literature available from the tax authorities on tax rules.

She underscored the federal government’s commitment to raising tax revenues which were essential to grow the economy and create jobs for Nigerians.

She cited the fact that just N1 million could feed over 14,200 primary school children under the Homegrown School Feeding programme as well as creating many jobs in the agricultural sector.

Asked if the federal government would extend the deadline of the tax amnesty programme, the minister ruled out an extension of the deadline saying sufficient period had been given to tax payers to voluntary and truthfully declare their assets and income which had not been declared previously.

On the economy, she assured that the country was on the path of growth.

Nigeria, it would be recalled, had exited recession in the second quarter of 2017, recording a growth of 0.72 percent.

The country further consolidated its recovery in the third and fourth quarters of last year, with growths of 1.40 percent and 1.92 percent, respectively.

Mrs. Adeosun said, “The administration of President Muhammadu Buhari has laid the foundation for the repositioning of the economy by a series of reforms which are being sequenced to ensure maximum impact and benefits to Nigeria and the citizens."

“These include huge investments in infrastructure and social welfare across the country, improved revenue mobilization, the rebuilding of foreign reserves, and stabilization of exchange rate.”

She further noted that revenue mobilization was potentially the master key to unlocking Nigeria’s huge growth potentials and funding the infrastructure programmes.

In addition, the minister said the federal government would continue to create more fiscal space for reforms to enhance productivity and opportunity in the non-oil sector.

http://www.akelicious.com/2018/03/nigerian-govt-identifies-130000.html

Welcome to a new Legislative Day in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu , led the Principal Officers into the chambers; took the official prayers; and began the day’s proceedings at 10:49am.

Senator Abdulaziz Nyako moved for the approval of votes and proceedings of Thursday, 1st March, 2018. Senator Jonah David Jang seconded.

PETITIONS

Senator Obinna Ogba raised a petition on behalf of a constituency member against an agency for non payment of his retirement benefit.

Senator Ahmed Ogembe raised a petition on behalf of the Ebira people of Kogi State on a tribunal judgement that was not implemented.

Senator Ibrahim Gobir also raised a petition on behalf of a constituency member.

Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu referred the petitions to the committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions to report back in 4 weeks.

PRESENTATION OF A BILL- First Reading
Energy Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (HB. 72 and 446) by Senate Leader.

Energy Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2018 (HB. 72 and 446) was read the First Time

PRESENTATION AND CONSIDERATION OF A REPORT

Conference committee report on Nigerian Financial Intelligence Agency (Est, etc) Bill, 2018 (SB. 535) by Senator Chukwuka Utazi.

Senator Suleiman Adokwe seconded that the Senate do receive and consider the Conference committee report on Nigerian Financial Intelligence Agency (Est, etc) Bill, 2018 (SB. 535).

The Report was LAID.

“This is an important Bill and I am happy we have come to agreement with the House of Representatives. It is important we consider this report.”- Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

MOTIONS

The need to minimize the possibility of air mishaps and near fatalities in Nigeria by Senator Gbenga Ashafa.

“I support this important motion. I am of the opinion that we invite the Minister of Aviation to explain to us the state of the airport.”- Senator Chukwuka Utazi

“This is a serious issue and not a laughing matter. I fully support the suggestion of Senator Utazi and for the Minister of State to be invited as well.”- Senator James Manager

“I advice we declare an emergency on the airport situations.”- Senator Aliyu Sabi

“We should start a minute decision now and take drastic steps before we start observing a minute silence.”- Senator Abdulfatai Buhari

“It’s important this is investigated properly, Dana Airline should be suspended and properly checked. I support this motion.”- Senator Mao Ohuabunwa.

“Aviation Ministry is the most regulated ministry in Nigeria. However, the responsibility lies mostly with the pilot.”- Senator Stella Oduah.

“This shows that we should do something immediately on the aviation sector so that those who will fly in Nigeria will fly safely. I had a similar experience last month where the pilot missed the runway twice, it is also imperative we sort this once and for all.”- Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

Senate resolved to:

I. Direct the Honourable Minister of State for Transportation (Aviation) to appear before the Senate to give a full briefing on the steps that have been taken to minimize human errors and avoid preventable air crashes; and

II. Urge the Honourable Minister of State for Transportation (aviation) to immediately direct all relevant agencies in the aviation industry to immediately conduct a maintenance and airworthiness audit on all commercial aircraft operating within the Nigerian Airspace as well as the training of personnel operating within the industry.

Urgent need to repair and rehabilitate inter-state roads in Nigeria by Senator Chukwuka Utazi.

“I rise to support this motion due to its context. The state of our roads need more designs from the ministry and have guarantee from contractors for quality of work done.”- Senator Bassey Akpan

“Year in and out millions of money are being wasted on road construction which is not acceptable. We need to act and make good decisions.”- Senator Shehu Sani

“It is our responsibility to raise the issues of our people. As a parliament we would continue to fight for our people, sometimes we win and sometimes we lose but we won’t get tired of fighting. Every good road is an economic corridor.”- Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu

Senate resolved to:

I. Urge the Federal Government to ensure the rehabilitation and repair of inter-state roads in Nigeria in the 2018 fiscal year;

II. Mandate the committee on Works to investigate the award and execution of the Idah-Odolu-Nsukka-Adani-Otuocha-Onitsha federal road which has been in a state of total disrepair; and

III. Urge the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to as an interim measure, begin immediate repair of the bad portions of the Idah-Odolu-Nsukka-Adani-Otuocha-Onitsha federal road to make it motorable pending when full rehabilitation works can commence.

Alarming maternal and infant mortality rate in Nigeria by Senator Ahmed Ogembe.

“I support this motion. This issue is about fund and also to raise the awareness for environmental cleanliness.”- Senator Mao Ohuabunwa

“I rise to support this motion by commending the sponsor and I urge my Distinguished colleagues to also do so.”- Senator Gbenga Ashafa.

“The maternal and infant mortality rate in Nigeria is very worrisome, we have to maintain our population. If we allow our mothers and children die then our population would drop drastically. The earlier we address this, the better for us.”- Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu

Senate resolved to:

Mandate the committees on Women Affairs and Health to liaise with the Federal Ministers of Women Affairs and Health on ways to curb maternal, newborn and infant mortality in Nigeria and report back to the Senate.

Urgent need to stop increasing rate of child labour, molestation and abuse in Nigeria by Senator Benjamin Uwajumogu.

“I rise to support this motion, this is so because children are not well protected as they ought to.”- Senator Bassey Akpan

“This motion is obvious and patriotic, I support this motion.”- Senator T. A Orji.

“We have laid down rules, our problem is not setting laws but the enforcement of these laws. Anyone who faults the laws and orders should be punished. Abuse on a child affects the growth of that child.”- Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu

Senate resolved to:

I. Urge the security agencies and Ministry of Woman Affairs to put modalities in place to arrest this war against the right of children;

II. Call on the members of the Senate committee on Women Affairs and Judiciary to investigate the viral trend and report back to the Senate in 2 weeks; and

III. Urge the Federal, state and local government to provide quality and affordable education.

Urgent need to initiate proceedings for the release of certificates and mobilization of graduates of the Federal College of Education, Pankshin, Plateau State to participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme by Senator Jonah Jang.

Senator Jeremiah Useni seconded and supported the motion on the urgent need to initiate proceedings for the release of certificates and mobilization of graduates of the Federal College of Education, Pankshin, Plateau State to participate in the National Youth Service Corps programme.

“This matter calls for investigation, we cannot go into resolutions without being certain of what is going on.”- Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu.

Senate resolved to:

Mandate the committee on Tertiary Education and TETFUND to investigate this matter and report back to the Senate in 2 weeks

ADJOURNMENT

Senate Leader moved that all other items on the order paper be stood down to another Legislative day. Minority Leader seconded.

Plenary is adjourned to Wednesday, 7th March, 2018.

#GavelBangs.

Signed:

New Media Department,

Office of the President of the Senate,

Federal Republic of Nigeria.

http://www.akelicious.com/2018/03/proceedings-of-nigerian-senate-of.html

The reserve bidder in the sale of 9mobile, Smile Telecoms Holdings, has raised concern over some perceived anomalies in the handling of the sale of 9mobile by Barclays Africa, and has called for a review of the entire bid process.

Barclays Africa, the financial adviser handling the sale of 9mobile had penultimate week, declared Teleology Holdings as the preferred bidder for the sale of 9mobile, and had transmitted an official letter to Teleology Holdings, informing it of its emergence as the preferred bidder.

Disturbed by the letter from Barclays Africa to Teleology Holdings, coupled with the manner in which the bid exercise was carried out, Smile Telecoms Holdings wrote a protest letter to Barclays Africa, expressing its dissatisfaction in the entire bid process that produced Teleology Holdings as the preferred bidder.


Smile’s protest letter, which was addressed to Barclays Africa, was dated February 21, 2018 and signed by Templars, the company’s solicitors.

In the two-page letter, Smile expressed surprise and disappointment at the manner in which the selection process for the preferred bidder and reserve bidder was conducted. Of particular concern, to Smile, is the fact that the selection of the preferred bidder was announced before the stated deadline of February 26, 2018 as set out in the process letter.

The company therefore requested Barclays, to as a matter of fairness and urgency, provide a practicable with verifiable and preferably third-party authenticated proof that the party that has been selected as the preferred bidder has indeed satisfied all the conditions precedent to that selection.

Barclays Africa, Akelicious gathered, replied Smile’s protest letter on February 26, 2018, and promised to “be in touch with Smile to discuss any updates on the transaction, to the extent considered necessary.”

It expressed gratitude for Smile’s continued interest in the transaction but noted that its clients exercised their rights at their sole discretion to pursue an alternative path to completion of the transaction. Barclays restated its willingness to explore transaction completion with Smile should the pending process not reach a satisfactory conclusion.

Akelicious gathered from a reliable source close to Smile that Barclays Africa’s letter evaded the critical issues of due process and eligibility of the announced preferred bidder. The source wondered if the preferred bidder was able to meet the laid down requirements for the transactions that required it to reach agreement on any required financial accommodations with the syndicate lenders and the trade creditors.

The requirement also entails the preferred bidder to have firm, unconditional and committed funding for any cash payments and to provide a binding offer that is unconditional, excluding the formal licence approvals.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has however reassured that only investors with the required technical expertise and financial muscle will buy 9mobile.

A statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs, NCC, Mr. Tony Ojobo, stated that the commission would ensure that all relevant statutory and regulatory processes are duly complied with in the process leading up to the emergence of new owners for the telecoms company.

Some stakeholders who have been following the entire bid process have commended Teleology for emerging as the preferred bidder. They however said its emergence signaled a strong test to the financial capability of Teleology to pay the $50 million non-refundable fee within the 21-day window given it since February 21, and as well pay the $500 million bid money.
The ability of Teleology to pay these money within the stipulated time, will prove its critics wrong, the stakeholders said.

http://www.akelicious.com/2018/03/smile-holdings-raises-concern-over-sale.html