₦airaland Forum

As the 2016/2017 English Premier League season starts today, digital television firm, Star Times has said Nigerians can now watch the EPL on its platform in the country. File: Chelsea File: Chelsea The firm in statement said football fans would watch 33 live matches of the English Premier League from this weekend, August 13, adding that viewers would also watch the games if they missed via replay Star Times has exclusive rights to other leagues like German Bundesliga, Italian Serie A and French Ligue I. Football enthusiasts can enjoy live matches on weekends and the replays on NTA Sports 24 (STarTimes channel 270)as the biggest clubs in England do battle for the crown and glory. In August and September, Everton vs Tottenham, Burley and Liverpool, Leicester and Swansea, Manchester City against Bournemouth will all be shown live. Oludare Kafar, Marketing Director, Star Times Nigeria, said, “Securing the English Premier League EPL on Star Times platform highlights Star Times commitment towards ensuring quality contents for its subscribers to enjoy maximum entertainment, be it sports, movies, music, news documentary and kiddies.”

Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/08/star-times-air-live-epl-games-nigeria/

A group within the Peoples Democratic Party, Concerned Stakeholders, has asked the Head of the Peoples Democratic Party’s Reconciliation Committee, Prof. Jerry Gana, to address the root cause of the party’s protracted crisis.

According to the group, the 2019 presidential election is the root of the crisis rocking the PDP.

The group, in a statement issued on Thursday by its patron, Prof. Tayo Adeyemi, said it was important for the Gana-led committee to ensure fairness in the party.

The Concerned Stakeholders insisted that the PDP governors had no right to impose a candidate on the party for the position of the national chairman.

The group said, ‘So, it’s obvious that the 2019 presidential election is the origin of the crisis in the PDP. However, nobody has even considered trying to find out what the people actually want, that is the big problem in the PDP. The people will reject this imposition of candidates.

‘We have written to the national reconciliation committee to ensure fairness. Regarding the aspirants for the election of the party’s national chairman, we maintain our position that this must be left to the best and most popular candidate in the South-West. Why destabilise the party when nobody knows who will be alive tomorrow?’

The group noted that based on development in politics across the world, it was important that the PDP considered a female as the party’s vice-presidential candidate in 2019.

Citing the case of the US and Germany where women have held top positions in government, the group said Nigeria should follow such examples.

Source: http://punchng.com/2019-election-cause-pdp-crisis-group/

Onitsha—Fresh crisis has erupted in the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, over alleged tenure elongation for the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Fidelis Okafor by the Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano. Ojukwu Varsity Ojukwu Varsity The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, branch of the institution disclosed this yesterday to newsmen at a press conference held after its meeting. The Union led by Mr. Emeka Nwabunnia who was flanked by his secretary, Dr. Mbanefo Odum and other executive members appealed to governor Obiano to follow due process in the appointment of a Vice-Chancellor as stipulated by the law establishing the university. The union alleged that there was plan by the governor to elongate Okafor’s tenure for another six months on acting capacity when he is expected to bow out as Vice-Chancellor on September 4, 2016. Accordingly, the Union gave three weeks ultimatum to the Governor to appoint an Acting Vice-Chancellor before the expiration of the tenure of the incumbent Vice-Chancellor to avoid crisis in the institution. “Your Excellency, further to the foregoing requests, the Union respectfully reiterates the need to have a properly constituted and functional Governing Council prior to the exit of the incumbent Vice-Chancellor and the assumption of duty by the incoming Ag. Vice-Chancellor. We earnestly request that you use your good offices to remove all obstacles preventing the proper constitution of the Governing Council and Senate before the 4th day of September, 2016, when the tenure of the incumbent Vice-Chancellor, Professor Fidelis Uzochukwu Okafor will expire. The Union stated that the tenure of the Vice-Chancellor would end on September 4, 2016, having served a single tenure of five years. But in a separate press conference in the institution, some members of the Union under the aegis of concerned members of ASUU led by Dr. Pascal Oguno condemned the action of the ASUU Chairman and his Secretary on grounds that the Union had no power to announce vacancy for the position of the Vice-Chancellor. According to him, since there was no properly constituted governing council, it was the prerogative of the visitor (Governor) to announce vacancy of the position of the Vice-Chancellor. He said that action of the Chairman and Secretary was tantamount to cause crisis in the institution. “ASUU has acted ultra vires by announcing vacancy for the Vice-Chancellor position and it is embarrassing and an unethical behavior to write a letter to the governor and circulate same to persons who are not members of the university.”

Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/08/crisis-rocks-ojukwu-varsity/

Abeokuta—Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Bola Ajibola,SAN, yesterday advised President Muhammadu Buhari not to succumb to the pressure to relax his anti-corruption war. Bola-Ajibola Bola-Ajibola According to him, Nigeria will not make progress, if corruption is not taken to the cleaners. Ajibola, who gave the advice in an interview in his Abeokuta home, recalled telling the President after his inauguration that corruption would fight back, but pleaded with him not to give in to pressures. The retired Judge of the International Court of Justice wondered what manner of people Nigerians were if the same people that voted Buhari to solve their problems of corruption were so early getting tired when the work had only just begun. He said: “Fighting corruption is vital and it is going to come with many provocations and open show of ungratefulness by the same Nigerians you are working hard to save but you stand firm and not be deterred. That is the way to go. ‘’When I served as Attorney-General of the Federation for over six years, I did not take salaries, asking them to use my salaries as part of the fund to run the nation’s affairs. ‘’Despite all that, when I was nominated for election into the International Court of Justice, eminent Nigerians, lawyers of note (names withheld) travelled all the way from Nigeria to campaign against me that I should not be voted into the ICJ. “That is where I would like to advise President Buhari not to be deterred by seeming lack of appreciation of the good work he is doing and various acts of sabotage and pressures of corrupt people that caused the suffering of Nigerians currently. ‘’The success of the whole struggle is in his not succumbing and in his firmness. The people that are doing these to the government, who will always come out to criticize as if there is nothing good that the government has done or is doing, should not be the reason to allow the other 170 million helpless Nigerians to suffer.” He is capable and I pray that Almighty Allah will continue to strengthen him to succeed.’’

Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/08/bola-ajibola-buhari-dont-bow-pressure-anti-corruption-war/

Majority of the 38 officers compulsorily retired by the Nigerian Army two months ago were sent away without recourse to the rules of disengagement in the Nigerian military,” PREMIUM TIMES can authoritatively report today.

The army had in June announced the compulsory retirement of 38 officers on different ranks on the grounds of alleged professional misconduct during the 2015 general elections, as well as involvement in the $2.1 billion arms procurement scandal.

The affected officers include Major-Generals F. O. Alli, E.J. Atewe, I. N. Ijoma, L. C. Ilo, TC Ude, Letam Wiwa, SD Aliyu, M.Y Ibrahim, LC Ilo and O. Ejemai.

Others were Brigadier-Generals D. M. Onoyeiveta, A. S. O. Mormoni Bashir, A.S.H Sa’ad, A. I. Onibasa, D. Abdusalam, L.M. Bello, KA Essien, B. A. Fiboinumama and I. M. Lawson.

Also affected were Cols. M.A. Suleiman, I. O. Ahhachi, P. E. Ekpenyong, T. T. Minimah, O. U. Nwonkwo, and F. D. Kayode, Lt-Cols C. O. Amadi, K. O. Adimogha, T. E. Arigbe, O. A. Baba Ochankpa, D. B. Dazang, O. C. Egemole, Enemchukwu, A. Mohammed, A. S. Mohammed, G. C. Nyekwu, T. O. Oladintoye, C. K. Ukoha and Major A. T. Williams.

In the June 9 letters, seen by PREMIUM TIMES, to the affected officers, their compulsory retirement was hinged on “provisions of Paragraph 09.02c (4) of the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service for Officers 2012 (Revised)”.

The referenced section – 09.02c (4) – of the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service for Officers 2012 (Revised), shows the officers were laid off “on disciplinary grounds i.e. serious offence(s)”.

Emphasizing “service exigencies” and that the “military must remain apolitical and professional at all times”, Army spokesperson, Sani Usman, a colonel,on June 10, released a statement, disclosing what could have constituted the “serious offences” which warranted the 38 officers to be compulsorily retired.

“It should be recalled that not too long ago some officers were investigated for being partisan during the 2015 general elections,” the statement said.

“Similarly, the investigation by the Presidential Committee investigating Defence Contracts revealed a lot. Some officers have already been arraigned in court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC),” Colonel Usman said.

Although, some of the officers, who were shocked by their sudden retirement, had alleged ethnic cleansing, the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, said the army embarked upon the exercise to remove those “who in one way or the other jeopardized the fight against insurgency and other issues bordering on national security.”

He also said that there was no better time to send the officers away than the time they were retired.

But PREMIUM TIMES investigations revealed that the Army breached its own rule by retiring most of the officers without query or indictment by any panel, thereby raising question of arbitrariness.

However, contrary to the claim by the Army, our investigations showed that only a few of the affected officers were queried, tried and indicted.

Others had their careers abruptly cut short for reasons that smacks of high-level arbitrariness, pettiness, witch-hunting and partisanship by authorities of the Army.

While officers cleared by either arms procurement panel or election panel were retired, others who were not questioned at all were also sent away.

Our findings revealed that nine officers, holding the rank of Major General, 11 Brigadier Generals, seven Colonels and 11 Lieutenant Colonels, amounting to 38 officers in sum, were laid off.

Highly placed sources in the Army told PREMIUM TIMES that out of the Major Generals, only one – E.D. Atewe (N/7674) faced a panel and was indicted. Mr. Atewe was indicted by the presidential arms probe panel, and he is currently being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

Although S.D. Aliyu (N/7711); M.Y. Aliyu (N/8114) GOC 7 Division; Fatai Alli, (N/7914) a former Director of Operations in the Army, also faced presidential arms panel but they were cleared. Yet they were laid off for “serious offence”, our investigations revealed.

Other five Major Generals – L. Wiwa (N/7665), who is late Ken Saro-Wiwa’s brother; I.N. Ijeoma (N/8304); T.C Ude (N/7866); L.C. Ilo (N/8320); O. Ejemau (N/8340) were neither queried nor indicted by any panel.

On June 9, they received letters via emails, directing them to proceed on compulsory retirement.

Brigadier Generals had to go because of their loyalties

The cases of the affected Brigadier Generals are not different; only one of them – A.I Onibasa (N/9072) was indicted by the presidential panel on arms procurement.

Sources told PREMIUM TIMES that the remaining 10 officers were simply retirement because they were suspected to be have failed to help this regime to power.

For instance, two officers were laid off because of their ties to the embattled former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki, our sources said.

The two officers – A.S.H. Sa’ad (N/8392), who was at the Directorate of Military Intelligence; and Mormoni Bashir (N/8396), former principal staff officer to Mr. Dasuki – were retired without indictment. Although, Mr. Sa’ad faced a panel, he was not found to have engaged in any wrongdoing.

For his alleged close ties to a former Army Chief, Kenneth Minimah, D. Abdulsalam (N/9169) was sent away.

Koko Essien (N/8794), a former Brigade Commander, 2 Brigade, Port Harcourt, faced the election panel but was cleared. Mr. Essien was laid off nonetheless, like Bright Fibioinumana (N/8399); L.N. Bello (N/8799), former Brigade Commander, 34 Brigade Owerri; and M.G. Alli Moundhey, former Director, Campaign Planning in the North East Operations, who were even not queried in the first place.

Although, the Nigerian Army said the affected officers were retired for either involvement in the 2015 general elections or arms procurement fraud, our investigations showed that officers who were not in Nigeria at the time of the elections were also sacked.

That was the case of I.B. Lawson (N/8812) and G.O. Agachi (N/9363) who were Defence Attaches at Nigeria’s missions in China and Benin Republic respectively.

According to a document seen by this newspaper, they retired for allegedly committing “serious offence”.

But they were never informed of their offences nor were they invited to face any panel of inquiry, army insiders say.

“They aided PDP to get votes”

Many Colonels and Lieutenant Colonels who were laid off on June 9 were merely suspected of failing to cooperate with the All Progressives Congress to garner votes in the 2015 elections, sources told PREMIUM TIMES.

In one instance, T.A Williams (N/11469) a Major; and A. Mohammed (N/10659), a Lieutenant Colonel, both attached to the 195 Battalion, Agenebode, Edo State, with the latter as Commanding Officer, were said to have been flushed out because of complaint of not cooperating with the APC, brought against them. But Mr. Mohammed was said to be away in the North-East at the time and played no role during the election. Yet he was retired.

Similarly, in Rivers State, Army insiders said, APC officials accused four officers attached to the 332 Air Defence Regiment (B. Odiankpa – N/10417) and ; 5 Battalion, Elele (A.S. Mohammed -N10662); 2 Brigade Garrison, Port Harcourt (A.Adimoha – N/10421); 29 Battalion Port Harcourt (T.O. Oladuntoye (N/10338) of aiding the PDP in the state.

Our findings revealed that these officers, accused of partisanship, were not queried or investigated before they were asked to forced to leave the army.

In one curious case, documents seen by this newspaper revealed that Lt. Col A. Mohammed was in the North East, not Agenebode, but somehow his name was among those listed for alleged partisanship.

The former Commanding Officer, 93 Battalion, Takum, O.C. Egemole (N/10423), who was also compulsorily retired, was also accused of “not doing enough” to avert APC loss in Taraba State. He was also neither queried nor investigated.

Seven colonels on the list of the compulsory retirees had no formal charge issued to them nor did they face panel before they were laid off.

For instance O.U. Nwankwo (N/9678) was studying at the University of Ibadan while M.A. Suleiman (N/10030) was in Chad as Defence Attaché before they were suddenly retired.

Then, C.K. Ukoha (N/10319) was in Abuja during the elections, insiders told us, but was accused of taking part in electoral fraud in Benin and was retired.

Also, without probe or indictment for any offence, T. Minimah (N/10185), brother to former Army Chief, Kenneth Minimah, was also removed from his post in Benin and retired.

Did the retirements follow due process?

PREMIUM TIMES checks indicated the army violated its own rules in the ways the officers were disengaged.

The Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service for Officers whose paragraph 09.02c (4) was relied upon to remove the officers, originates from the Armed Forces Act.

The section cited by the Army provides that an officer may be compulsorily retired “on disciplinary grounds i.e. serious offence(s)” without defining what constitutes “serious offences”.

But the principal law – the Armed Forces Act – establishes all actions that constitute offences in the Military.

The Act prescribes steps to be taken in punishing offences, and a review shows no section empowers the Army Council to arbitrarily punish or compulsorily retire officers for any offence.

In fact, the Army Council, in Section 11(a-f) of the Act, has no power to retire any officer on disciplinary ground without compliance with the steps prescribed by law.

“Army did no wrong; affected officers can seek redress”

The spokesperson for the Army, Sani Usman, a Colonel, however insisted the officers were properly retired.

“Those that were compulsorily retired had one problem or the other that warranted their compulsory retirement from the Army,” Mr. Usman told PREMIUM TIMES.

“Basically that’s it. And whoever is not satisfied with that should please seek redress. They are quite familiar with the terms and conditions of service.

“None of them was arbitrarily retired and they know. Army can’t just retire you without any offence or because the Chief of Army Staff does not like your face.

“It is not for them to go to newspaper. They were advised to write the Commander-in-Chief through the Chief of Defence Staff to seek redress. Their records are there and they will be given cogent reason why they were asked to retire compulsorily.”

Mr. Usman was evasive when asked whether all the affected officers were queried or formally indicted before they were forced out of service.

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/208459-special-report-how-nigerian-army-violated-own-rules-sacked-officers-for-not-helping-apc.html

A fresh public opinion poll by NOIPolls on Wednesday revealed that Nigerians have been compelled to adjust the feeding patterns of their families, while others have resigned to fate, resorting to seeking divine intervention through prayers as the country’s economic situation worsens.

The poll conducted in conjunction with Business Day Media revealed that about two-thirds of the country’s 170 million population (66 percent) lamented the hardship they and members of their families were facing since the country’s economic situation worsened over the past three months.

The Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, confirmed the country’s economy was in recession.

A recession is a general downturn in any economy, with significant decline in activity across the economy, lasting longer than a few months, associated with high unemployment, slowing real gross domestic product, declining income and high inflation.

The poll said Nigerians believe the recession was triggered by recent happenings in the macro and micro economic landscape, includng the decline in the global crude oil prices, which resulted in outcomes that have negatively impacted their personal economic wellbeing and living standards.

Key among the recent economic challenges faced by Nigerians include huge increase in prices of goods and services (43 per cent); hike in petrol pump price (18 per cent); rise in the cost of transportation (10 per cent); devaluation of the Naira and foreign exchange crisis (8 per cent); poor electricity supply (7 per cent); irregular payment of salaries (4 percent); increase in electricity tariff (3 per cent).

The report said the findings were corroborated by recent inflation figures published by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), putting headline inflation in June 2016 at about 16.5 percent, the highest in more than six years.

“From the poll results, 97 percent of the entire respondents acknowledged that these recent economic realities have had a negative effect of the general wellbeing of the average Nigerian. Consequently, this has led to the adoption of some measures and strategies to enable them cope or manage the impact of the current economic realities,” the report said.

The report identified the coping mechanisms by Nigerians to include cutting down on household expenses and luxury items; enduring the situation and seeking the face of God in prayers; adjusting family feeding patterns; creating alternative sources of income and engaging in subsistence agriculture.

As remedies for improving their general well-being, the report said Nigerians suggested that government focus attention on ‘improving the economy’ (33 percent), ‘investing in agriculture’ (15 percent), ‘controlling the price of goods and services’ (14 percent) and ‘reducing the pump price of petrol‘ (10 percent).

About four percent of Nigerians, the report said, believe resolving the crisis in the Niger-Delta region would end the vandalism of oil installations in the region, check the country’s dwindling revenue from crude oil, help in reviving the economy and improving the general well being of citizens.

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/208379-worsening-economic-crisis-nigerians-adjust-feeding-patterns-embrace-prayers.html

When you are getting ready to start trying to get pregnant, there is a lot you will need to learn about your own body in regards to fertility. This way you will be able to more accurately predict the days of the month where you are most likely to get pregnant. Learning to track your cycle is called Natural Family Planning (NFP). It can also be referred to as the Sympto-Thermal Method, the Ovulation Method or Billings Method.
Using the body's natural indicators like body temperature and cervical mucus in combination with the calendar/rhythm method you decide on times of highest fertility, and get pregnant more quickly.
How Does it Work?
Each of the indicators (temperature, mucus, rhythm) gives you an indication of when your body will be the most fertile. During the times when your fertility is at its highest you can choose to try to get pregnant, or use contraception to prevent an unwanted pregnancy.
How to Use it
Using Natural Fertility Planning means charting out your menstrual cycle in order to get an idea of your fertility pattern. Although most women have a cycle between 28 to 32 days each women is different. The average cycle will look something like this:
Day 1: This is the first day of your menstrual flow and the first day of your calendar.
Day 7: On this day your egg is ready to be fertilized.
Days 11-21: (if a 28 day cycle): Hormones trigger the release of the egg from the ovary, also known as ovulation. The egg begins its journey toward the uterus along the fallopian tube. If fertilization occurs the egg will attach itself to the uterus, otherwise it will break apart.
Day 28: If fertilization does not occur then dropping hormone levels will cause the lining of the uterus to shed and start your menstrual flow.
Every woman's cycle is slightly different, and for the most part it is the first portion of the cycle, prior to ovulation that will differ the most. The first part can vary from 13 to 20 days long, while the last half is usually the same, about 14 days from ovulation to the start of the menstrual flow.
Calendar Tracking
Once you have a few months of tracking your menstrual cycle you will have a pretty good idea of when your fertile times of each month are. Here is how to get started:
o Step One: Get ready to track your menstrual cycle for about 8 to 12 months.
o Step Two: The first day of your menstrual flow will be Day 1 in your calendar.
o Step Three: After tracking your menstrual cycle for several months, start planning out your cycles by choosing the one longest and one shortest cycle.
o Step Four: Determine the first day that you are fertile within your calendar by taking your shortest cycle and subtracting 18 days. For example, if your shortest cycle was 27 days then day 9 of your cycle will be your first fertile day.
o Step Five: Determine the last day you are likely fertile by taking eleven days off your longest cycle. So, if your longest cycle is 31 days then your last fertile day will be day 20.
o Now you have a window to work with. In the above example you would start your period on day one, and you would be fertile somewhere in between day 9 and day 20. Keep in mind that this is a general guide and you are likely to ovulate and be able to become pregnant somewhere within this window.
Basal Body Temperature
After you ovulate your body temperature will be slightly higher until your period begins. This is a good way to get a better idea of when your fertility window starts, so that you can more accurate plan when you are likely to get pregnant. Here is how to track and measure your basal body temperature.
o Step One: Buy a basal thermometer, which will more accurately be able to ready the 0.4 to 1 degree Fahrenheit rise in body temperature after you ovulate.
o Step Two: Record your temperature daily on your fertility calendar.
o As you go through your cycle you will notice that your temperature remains pretty steady prior to ovulation, then just prior to ovulation there may be a slight decline. After ovulation there will be a measurable increase.
o Once you have gone through a few cycles you will be able to determine pretty accurately when ovulation occurs. Keep in mind that certain factors can interfere with your temperature such as illness, alcohol or drug use or lack of sleep.
Cervical Mucus
The third fertility tracking tool involves taking stock of the chances of your cervical mucus throughout your cycle. On average you will have 3 or 4 dry days after your menstrual flow. Then your mucus will increase daily for about 9 days. At this point your cervical mucus should resemble egg whites and be slippery, clear and stretchy. It is on the peak day of mucus, or within two days that you will ovulate.
Here are the steps to measuring your cervical mucus:
o Step One: Gather the mucus from your vaginal opening by wiping with your fingers from front to back.
o Step Two: Make the following notes on your fertility calendar each day - color, consistency and feel. Use terms like yellow, white, clear, cloudy, thick, sticky, stretchy or slippery.
o Step Three: The day your mucus is the most clear, slippery and stretchy should be noted as the day you ovulate.
o It is important that you do not use douche or spermicide while you are tracking your cervical mucus as it will interfere with the results and increase the risk of infection.
Effectiveness of Natural Family Planning
It is extremely important that anyone intending on using this method be very vigilant about tracking their temperature, menstrual cycle and cervical mucus. When used properly this method is 90% effective when used as a birth control guideline as long as protection is used during the fertility window.
Average use indicates that the failure rate (meaning pregnancy) is 25%. For those who are using Natural Family Planning to get pregnant will find that this method gives them a good indication of their fertile days.
Cost of Natural Family Planning
The tools you will need to keep track of your cycle are relatively inexpensive and include a basal thermometer ($10-$15) and a calendar. The thermometers are available at drugstores and grocery stores, and you can use your own calendar or buy a fertility chart for about $8. If you want more help learning about fertility planning you can attend free classes through health centers or pregnancy services in your area.
Health Effects of Natural Family Planning
There are no health effects or side effects associated with Natural Family Planning, and it does not affect the male or female reproduction system. If you are using NFP as a birth control method you can easily get pregnant by simply not using protection during your fertility window.
NOTE: Natural Family Planning DOES NOT protect against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Other Signs of Ovulation
There are other bodily signs that you are ovulating, and you may notice all or some of them if you are tracking your fertility:
o Tenderness in the breasts
o Change or softening of the cervix
o Slight pain around one ovary
Pros of Natural Family Planning
o Is effective when used properly and consistently
o No side effects or health effects
o No wait from using NFD as a contraceptive method to trying to get pregnant
o Inexpensive
o No need for prescriptions, devices or doctor's visits
o Does not make use of any type of drug
o Can be used by religious couples who are opposed to contraception
o Very effective for those who are trying to get pregnant
Cons of Natural Family Planning
o Needs to be supported by both partners
o Will require abstinence or contraception for 10 days per month
o Needs to be tracked daily
o Can be challenging if you have irregular cycles
If you are trying to get pregnant, Natural Family Planning is the cheapest and simplest way to get an idea of when you can get pregnant. Before you head to a fertility doctor you may want to give NFD a try to see if you can get pregnant without medical intervention.

http://women-ng..com.ng/2016/08/getting-pregnant-using-natural-family.html

The UK has launched Super Priority Visa Service in Nigeria to allow customers to process their applications within 24 hours.

The British High Commission, on its website, said the new service was to particularly meet the needs of those who required urgent service to travel.

The High Commission quoted the British High Commissioner, Paul Arkwright, as welcoming the introduction of the Super Priority Visa service in Nigeria.

“I am pleased to see the Super Priority Visa service being launched in Nigeria.

“This comes with an additional cost but is designed to give greater flexibility to our customers and underlines our strong commitment to make improvements to the visa services we offer.

“We expect this new service to be particularly useful for business. We understand that business opportunities and urgent requirements can arise at very short notice.

“We recognise this and want to facilitate such travel to the UK with this new super-fast service”, Arkwright said.

The High Commission said the introduction of the service allowed customers greater flexibility to choose from a number of visa products to meet their needs.

“It is offered alongside our current Priority Visa (front of queue processing five to seven-day) and standard (15-day) services.

“The UK is the only European country to offer a visa decision in 24 hours.

“The Super Priority Visa service is aimed largely at key business customers and those needing to travel urgently by providing a visa decision for collection at the Visa Application Centre the working day following submission.”

It said the service costs 750 Pounds in addition to the visa fee and would be available to eligible customers applying in the Abuja and Lagos Visa Application Centres.

The High Commission said those applying in the “Visitors” or “Points Based System Tier 4” are eligible to use the Super Priority Service.

It said appointments are available from Mondays to Thursday from 8.30 a.m. to 10 a.m. and Fridays from 8.30 a.m. to 9 a.m. at the Abuja and Lagos centres only.

“Extending the Super Priority Visa service to Nigeria is another example of how the UK is leading the world in the provision of premium visa services for those coming to the UK to visit, do business or study.’’

(NAN)

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/208400-uk-launches-24-hour-visa-service-nigeria.html

The Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai, on Wednesday decried the Central Bank’s prevailing fiscal regime, saying the bank’s 14 per cent monetary policy rate has led to massive job losses in the country.

Mr. El-Rufai said the CBN risked losing its power to set lending rates for commercial banks unless it immediately addressed the situation, adding that only unscrupulous elements could successfully operate under the current fiscal policy atmosphere.

“We have a Central Bank that has an MPR at —what?— 14 per cent and banks lending at 20 percent. Only traders and drug dealers can make money at this interest rate.

“I have said it before and I will repeat it again, unless the Central Bank and the banking system make a conscious decision to bring interest rate down, one day we would legislate it,” Mr. El-Rufai said.

The governor’s comments were delivered at a special edition roundtable organised by Women in Business, a non-profit women advocacy organisation, in Abuja.

Mr. El-Rufai dismissed CBN’s perennial reasons for high interest rate, and used the “B” word to express his disgust.

“The rate of inflation in the UK is not 2 per cent or 1 per cent. It is 7-8 per cent. But lending rate is at what one percent. I think they cut the interest rate last week.

“All these theories that the rate of interest must be above the rate of inflation is economic [expletive],” Mr. El-Rufai said.

“We must decide that businesses should be able to borrow at the rate interest that makes sense and politically lower rates to that level.”

The Women in Business roundtable attracted professionals from all walks of life and the participants used the platform to share viable ideas and express challenges faced in running a successful enterprise.

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/208409-el-rufai-attacks-cbn-says-bank-destroying-jobs.html

One of my favorite times of year is spring. I love getting outside after the long winter and cleaning up my flowerbeds. Seeing the tulips, lilies, and crocuses coming up really makes my day! As any gardener knows, flowerbeds are a lot of work. If you don't spend time in them every day, the weeds will take over and choke out all of your flowers. I think pulling weeds is actually very therapeutic. It makes me feel great to be out in the sunshine and keeping the weeds out of my flowerbeds gives the flowers roots more room to grow. My flowers get bigger and more beautiful every year.
Being a good Christian is much the same. A new Christian is as beautiful as the new spring flowers. But if they don't spend time with God every day, praying and reading his word, the weeds of the world will get in the way and choke out the joy of the Lord. Spending time talking to God and reading the bible can help keep the weeds out of your life and keep the grace of God in.
In the book of Matthew, chapter 13, Jesus tells the parable of the sower. He tells of a farmer scattering his seed on the land. Some of it falls on the path and the birds eat it. Other seeds fall on rocky places where there is not a lot of dirt and so they don't have good roots and the die. More seeds fall among thorns, which grew and choked them out. The last of the seeds fall on good soil and produce many times what was sown (vs. 1-9).
Jesus then explains the parable to the disciples. He says that when anyone hears the message about God and the kingdom of heaven, and does not understand it, the devil comes and takes it away from his heart. He is like the seed on the path. The one who is like the seed in the rocky place is the one who hears the word and receives it right away, but since he does not have good roots, when trouble or persecution comes, he falls away. The one who is like the seed in the thorns is the one who hears the word, but the worries of the world and the love of money choke it out. The last is the one who receives the word and understands it. He is the one who prospers (vs. 18-23).
Every gardener know that if you want your flowers to grow and be beautiful year after year, they have to be planted in the right soil and tended daily. Great care will result in a beautiful flowerbed. In the same way, spending time with God every day will make you a beautiful, healthy Christian with good roots that can last forever.

http://christianlifeministry..com.ng/2016/08/how-being-good-christian-is-lot-like.html

Chai! EFCC!

Alpha and Omega.....

A 35-year old man arrested by the operatives of Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of Lagos State Police Command, has revealed that his pastor pushed him into selling of a stolen vehicle.

The suspect, Olawale Olabinwonnu, working with Cherubim and Seraphim Church in Igbogbo, Ikorodu, as an administrative officer, was arrested by RRS Intelligence Team on Tuesday for trying to sell a Nissan Sentra, 2015 Model, stolen at gunpoint.

The vehicle, whose original vehicle number was changed to a fake one – APP 510 DW, in order to sell it, was recovered on Monday, August, 1 at a car park in Lekki, Lagos.

It was learnt that RRS investigators had on seeing the vehicle on a popular online shopping platform called its marketer to indicate interest in buying the car before pretending as couples interested in the car.

Enthusiastically, the man who took the custody of the stolen Nissan Sentra came forward to welcome the buyers before he was arrested.

He however assisted the police in the arrest of its marketer in Ikorodu several days later.

Mr. Olawale, apparently sensing something was wrong with the vehicle had along with his family parked out of his Ikorodu residence and office to evade arrest, but investigators were said to have tracked him to another church in Ikorodu where he was arrested last Sunday after church service.

The vehicle, which is owned by one of the first generation banks in the country, was reported stolen at gun point when robbers invaded an hotel in Iju-Ishaga area where the manager of the bank was lodging.

The robbers were reported to have demanded the car key from the banker before making away with it along with other valuables.

According to Mr. Olawale, “the vehicle was given to me to sell by Ahmed Abbey. I met him at Dammy Jay Hotel, Ikorodu. I went there to drink and he came to my table, bought drinks for everybody. That was how I liked him.

When I was going home, I told him I was going home and he gave me N2, 000. Those were moments I was struggling and I had no job.

“I saw Abbey later that week to explain how he could help me because I had no job. This was the time he asked me if I could help his sister travelling overseas to sell her car. And, I told him that I would try.
Stolen car
Stolen car

“I consulted my pastor twice on the issue of helping him sell a car. First, the pastor told me to go ahead and collect the car from him and sell it. I took the car from Abbey and began to market it but after about three weeks, I couldn’t get a buyer. He took the car from me.

“Some weeks later, I stumbled on him with the car and he challenged me that I didn’t want to help his sister sell her car.

After a while, we agreed that I will help him to look for buyer. I consulted my pastor again for him to pray about it.This time, the pastor introduced me to somebody in Lekki who has a car park at a very conspicuous place, where we can put the car for sale. It was here the car was until I learnt that the car was stolen at gun – point”, he added.

“Since I was arrested, I have been calling Abbey to come and explain to the police that he gave me the car to sell, but most of the time, he avoided my calls. At times, he switched off his phone. Presently, he’s no longer picking any call on that line.”

Confirming the arrest, the State Police Public Relations Officer, Dolapo Badmus, a superintendent of police, said the suspect was helping the Police with investigations, adding that efforts were ongoing to arrest the man that gave him the car to sell.

The suspect, along with the vehicle, has been transferred to Special Anti-Robbery Squad for further investigations.

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/208228-pastor-encouraged-sell-stolen-car-suspect.html

To many women this is the most obvious thing to do and they wouldn't consider any alternative. Others may be undecided, particularly if they are expecting their first child.
This article is a summary of the known advantages of breast feeding, and has been written to offer women clear, factual information to enable them to make an informed choice as to whether to breast feed their baby or not.
With very few exceptions, every woman who bears a baby throughout pregnancy is physically capable of feeding it after the birth. Breast feeding is one of the most natural things in the world and has many advantages for both the baby and for the mother.
Let's look at each of the key areas in a little more detail...
What is in breast milk that makes it so nutritious?
There is no doubt that the nutritional content of human breast milk is ideally suited to babies. It has evolved over tens of thousands of years and contains well over 300 known ingredients to ensure that every nutrient necessary for babies is present and in the right proportions and quantities. But it is not as straightforward as that - not only are these nutrients present in the right proportions and quantities, but those proportions change depending on the age of the baby.
The First Stage of Milk Production.
Immediately after the baby is born, the mother's milk is rather thin-looking and contains very high concentrations of Essential Fatty Acids (EFA's) needed for the growth, brain development and bile-salt production of the new-born baby. This first milk is called 'colostrum' and it plays a vital role in establishing a healthy digestive system in the baby. Colostrum is only produced for the first few days and normally by the end of the first week mothers are producing transitional milk.
The Second Stage of Milk Production.
Transitional milk is still rich in EFA's, but has less than are found in colostrum. Overall fat content is also slightly down, with corresponding increases in lactose and protein. This milk is generally produced for the first six months of the baby's life, although this can be longer if the infant was born prematurely. This milk provides everything that the growing baby needs during the first six months of life - there is no need to supplement with anything else during this period.
The Third Stage of Milk Production.
The third stage of milk production is called mature milk and this is generally produced from six months onwards. It is during this stage that mothers should start to introduce other foods to start the process of weaning. Most authorities agree that infants should be breast-fed until at least the age of 12 months, and up to 24 months if possible. During this period, the range and frequency of other foods should be gradually increased so that the weaning process is carried out smoothly and without trauma. Each of these three stages ensures that the exact needs of the developing infant are met and that nutritional health is optimised.
The benefits of breast feeding for your baby
* Provides Essential Fatty Acids, Proteins and many other nutrient
* Offers strong baby immunity - Macrophages (cells that destroy bacteria, viruses and fungi) can help with common diseases like pneumonia, botulism, bronchitis, staphylococcal infections, influenza, urinary tract infections and ear infections
* Breast Milk is always sterile and never contains the bacteria that may cause diarrhoea in bottle-fed infants.
* Protects against allergies. The antibodies in breast milk work to form a protective coating on the inside of a baby's intestines, protecting them from potential allergens. Babies are never allergic to their own mother's milk. They may react to some of the foods that she eats - common examples are cow's milk and Brussels sprouts - but if the mother eliminates the problem food from her diet, the symptoms in the baby soon go away
* Creates strong physical growth through the act of suckling by exercising the baby's jaws and facial muscles and encouraging the growth of straight, healthy teeth
* Establishes a close bond between mother and baby. This is further developed when there is skin to skin contact during feeding. This, together with the feelings of warmth and security that come from being cuddled help to establish an early psychological balance in the infant, usually resulting in a more placid temperament. Interestingly, at birth a baby can only focus on things between 12 and 18 inches away - precisely the distance between the mother's face and the infant's eyes during breast feeding.
The benefits of breast feeding for mum
* Convenient and economical. No bottles to sterilise, no kettles to boil, no formula to buy, measure and mix. Breast milk is always at the right temperature and sterile.
* Helps regain your pre-pregnancy weight and figure. In order to produce milk the body uses a lot of calories and fat and this can speed up the loss of any excess accumulated during pregnancy. Also, the action of the baby suckling stimulates contractions of the uterus, helping it to return to its normal size.
* Breast feeding forces you to relax. It really isn't practical to feed whilst on the move. Sitting down and resting every few hours will speed up your recovery from childbirth. Even in the middle of the night, it is so much easier to breast feed than to give a bottle - you can even doze off during feeding if you are lying down.

http://women-ng..com.ng/

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) on Sunday said the Federal Government has not given foreign exchange waiver to Nigerian pilgrims performing hajj this year.

The commission’s Head of Media, Uba Mana, said this in a statement in Abuja on Sunday.

“The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria wishes to draw the attention of the public that the Federal Government has not given foreign exchange waiver to Nigerian pilgrims performing this year’s hajj,” Mr. Mana said.

“If there is one thing that the Government did for the Nigerian pilgrims, it was to allow the exchange rate prevalent at the time of payment of Hajj fare in February when the current flexible exchange rate was not in action to subsist.

“It is therefore wrong and mischievous for some persons or media organisations to peddle unfounded claims that the Federal Government gave the Nigerian pilgrims a waiver,’’ he said in the statement.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Presidency had earlier clarified the concessions of foreign exchange rate of N191 to one dollar for the 2016 intending pilgrims to Hajj and Jerusalem.

The Senior Special Assistant to the President, Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, said the policy was non-discriminatory.

He said that it had been approved before the current foreign exchange regime came into effect.

He also said that that the Central Bank of Nigeria had confirmed the approval, wondering why the apex bank had not notified the public earlier.

President Muhammadu Buhari has been roundly condemned for approving foreign exchange concession to pilgrims at a time the economy is struggling.

On Saturday, the Afenifere Renewal Group, a Yoruba socio-political group, warned the government against its policy of subsidising pilgrimage.

In a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Kunle Famoriyo, the group said the policy sent wrong signals about the touted autonomy of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

“It is tantamount to prioritizing religion over the nation’s economic needs,” the statement said.

ARG said religion was personal and should not be given priority when there were more fundamental and higher priority issues to expend the country’s scarce foreign exchange on.

Outrage had greeted the CBN’s decision that dollar be sold to intending pilgrims at N197/$1 at a time the market rate is averaging N400/$1.

Public condemnation had trailed a similar directive by the apex bank last year mandating banks to release dollar to the pilgrims at N160/$1 when the exchange rate for around N197/$1.

“This religious subsidy policy is needless, leaves room for sharp practices, and it is in bad taste considering that the forex policy is deemed to have been somewhat been liberalised,” the group said.

“For example, importers of pharmaceutical products and textbooks do not benefit from a government special rebate, considering that these are more essential needs.

“Education has also been adversely affected by the forex crisis with more Nigerians affected than those going on pilgrimages,” the statement said.

“Already, thousands of Nigerians studying abroad are being recalled home because their sponsors could no longer afford the fees.

“Also, We know that overseas education is a private choice but so also is religious pilgrimage. If any of the two deserves government intervention, it is education, unequivocally.”

The ARG maintained that the policy did not portend well for the economy at a time Nigeria was desperate about shoring up its Foreign Reserve.

“This policy is more damaging to a larger Nigerian population that depends on stable forex policy and strengthening of the Naira. This is clearly a wrong priority and it must stop.”

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/208227-nahcon-denies-buhari-gave-foreign-exchange-waiver-hajj-pilgrims.html

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Saturday denied media reports suggesting he attended an event convened by his former party, the Peoples Democratic Party. in Abuja.

In a text message he personally sent to PREMIUM TIMES on Saturday morning, Mr. Obasanjo said the reports were a ploy by their masterminds to score “cheap political gains”.

He also said the reports were manufactured to embarrass or annoy him.

He said he was at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre as guest of Senator Abdullahi Adamu, the Senate Committee Chairman on Agriculture, when some PDP leaders stormed the venue to great him.

“Chief Obasanjo’s resignation from party politics is final,” the statement said.

PREMIUM TIMES’ correspondent in Ogun State also quoted the former president as saying, “Those who know me, know that I have publicly announced my quitting partisan politics and those who will believe the purported story will believe anybody who tells him that his or her mother is not a woman.

“If I quit a party when it was alive and seemingly united, how could I go back to a now divided, factionalized party grasping for breath?”

Later on Saturday afternoon, Mr. Obasanjo’s office issued a more detailed statement saying, “The attention of the former President, His Excellency, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has been brought to the photonews story, which has gone viral on the social media on Friday, August 5, 2016 of his purported being “spotted” at a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) event at the Shehu Musa Yar’adua Centre, Abuja’,the statement reads.

‎’While ordinarily his first reaction to the news was that those behind it targeted to get him annoyed and embarrassed him, his conclusion was that he has told the world that he has quit partisan politics and that is final. Anybody hoping to drag him back will fail like any man feeding mice to a dead cat’,the statement added.

“To clear the minds of doubting Thomas’s and those behind the orchestrated news in circulation and particularly those who had been calling to ascertain what actually happened at the Shehu Musa Yar’adua centre. On the invitation of the Commodities Association Stakeholders, His Excellency, was invited to the “Zero Hunger Nigeria” event at the Centre’, the statement said.

“He arrived at about 10.00am and immediately moved to the meeting. The meeting commenced but few minutes into the session, his attention was drawn to the presence of some people walking up to where he was seated.

“At closer glance, he recognized them to be politicians and they exchanged pleasantries, saying they came to greet him and they walked out again from the meeting. The former President cracked joke with them calling them “invaders and gate crashers”.

The statement said the programme ended and immediately Mr. Obasanjo and his entourage headed back to Lagos.

He said he was barely hours in Lagos when he started receiving calls from far and near wanting to find out about his presence at a political party programme in Abuja.

The statement added, “The photo news in circulation, which claimed that he was spotted at a political party event is therefore mischievous, as a responsible journalist ought to have gone further to ascertain his actual destination in among the number of venues at the centre and not taking photograph of his alighting from his vehicle to read another meaning. Shocking also to note that the picture was actually taken while on his way out of the Centre after the programme he had attended had finished”.

“This is the height of irresponsible journalism, which the former President is calling for its investigation and sanction on anybody involved in order to serve as deterrent to others who may want to be used either by omission or commission to misinform the public on such sensitive issue.”

There were reports on Friday (not in PREMIUM TIMES) that Mr. Obasanjo was sighted at the Yar’Adua centre in Abuja, the same venue used by the leadership of the PDP to inaugurate its national convention committees.

It later turned out that the former president was at the venue for an entirely different engagement.


http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/208174-plotted-associate-dying-pdp-obasanjo.html

The Nigerian Army said on Friday that three soldiers and seven civilians died in a clash between soldiers and some residents of Kpaidna community in Niger.

Njideka Agwu, a major and Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 31 Artillery Brigade, Minna, made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Minna.

Ms. Agwu said the incident occurred at 2.00 a.m. on Friday in the community located in Bosso Local Government Area of the state.

“The 31 Artillery Brigade of the Nigeria Army, Minna, was on a joint operation with the Nigeria Air Force Quick Response Group in the area when we were attacked by the villagers.

“We were on a cordon and search operation in the village because we got intelligence report that there were caches of arms and ammunitions in the area.

“During the operation, three soldiers and seven civilians lost their lives, while 57 villagers were arrested by the joint operation,’’ she said.

Ms. Agwu said arms and ammunition were recovered during the operation which was still ongoing.

“Trouble started when some of the villagers denied the military access to their houses to enable soldiers search for arms and ammunition believed to be stockpiled there.

“During the clash, six operation vehicles belonging to the army were destroyed by the villagers; four were set ablaze while two were vandalised,’’ she said.

Ms. Agwu enjoined law abiding citizens in the area to go about their normal businesses as the operation was to safeguard lives and property.

She urged members of the public with useful information that would lead to the recovery of arms and ammunition in the area to report to the nearest security agency.

Bala Elkanah, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, confirmed the incident which he described as “purely military matter’’.

“It was purely a military operation. We (police) were not involved,” he told NAN.

(NAN)

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/208138-troops-clash-villagers-minna-soldiers-civilians-killed.html

Leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, from southern Nigeria, have agreed to zone the National Chairmanship position of the party to the South-West geopolitical zone.

At a meeting attended by governors, National Assembly members and former ministers, and other leaders on Thursday, in Port Harcourt, Rivers state, the party leaders also agreed to zone the positions of national treasurer and deputy national publicity secretary to the South West.

The leaders zoned the position of first deputy National Chairman, National Legal Adviser, Deputy National Woman Leader and Deputy National Auditor to the South-South.

The South-East zone got the National Organising Secretary, National Youth Leader and Deputy National Financial Secretary.

Addressing journalists at the end of the meeting, deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, said despite the zoning of the positions, any party member willing to contest any position was free to do so.

By that arrangement, it appears the door has been locked against media mogul, Raymond Dokpesi, and the immediate past acting National chairman of the PDP, Uche Secondus, who both signified their intention to contest.

Those likely to emerge as the next chairman of the party include former Chairman of the Nigerian Port Authority, Bode George, former Ogun state governor, Gbenga Daniel, and the party’s governorship flag bearer for Lagos state in 2015, Jimi Agbaje.

The PDP is expected to hold its national convention to elect a new set of leaders on August 17 in Port Harcourt, Rivers state.

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/208115-pdp-blocks-dokpesi-zones-national-chairmanship-south-west.html

President Muhammadu Buhari has has appointed a former commissioner in Lagos State, Wale Edun, as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Ogoni clean-up project.

The 13-member BoT was inaugurated on Thursday by Mr. Buhari, alongside the Governing Council for the clean-up.

Mr. Edun was commissioner of finance in Lagos when the leader of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Tinubu, was governor of the state.

Ibrahim Jibril, the Minister of State for Environment; Kemi Adeosun, the Minister of Finance; and Ibe Kachikwu, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources/NNPC chairman are also members of the BoT.

A renowned environmentalist, Nnimmo Bassey, is also a member of the BoT. He was picked to represent non-governmental organizations on the board.

Other trustees are Bebe Okpabi, representing Ogoni stakeholders; Nicholas Terraz, representing the multinationals being Shell Petroleum Development Company, Agip and Total; Mike Emuh, the National chairman of Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSCOM), representing other communities in the Niger Delta.

A slot has been reserved for a yet-to-be named United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) observer, while the Secretary and HYPREP (Hydro-Carbon Pollution Restoration Project) Legal Adviser is to be appointed by the Governing Council.

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/208098-buhari-names-governing-council-board-trustees-ogoni-clean-full-list.html

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease that is acquired through the exchange of different bodily fluids such as semen, blood, or saliva. It is also known as "the Clap." Gonorrhea is caused by bacteria called Neisseria gonorrheae, which can infect the urethra, cervix, anus, or throat. Majority of the people who get infected with the disease are under 30. In the United States, 75% of gonorrhea cases involve people aged 16 to 30 years old. When properly treated, antibiotics can cure the disease.
Women infected with gonorrhea may exhibit mild or no symptoms that is why it is difficult to diagnose. Also, gonorrhea symptoms in women are often mistaken for a bladder or other bacterial vaginal infection and as many as 50% of women with gonorrhea manifest no symptoms. Men are more likely to exhibit symptoms. Gonorrhea symptoms depend on how you contracted the infection and how long you've had it you may experience symptoms concerning these areas: urethra, cervix, anus or throat.
The signs of the disease usually appear between 2 to 10 days after acquiring the infection, but it can take as long as 30 days before the symptoms appear. Women suffering from gonorrhea may experience frequent and painful urination, as well s bleeding after intercourse. These symptoms are normal especially in the early stages of a cervical infection. Symptoms which occur later on are fever, vomiting, nausea, bloody or yellow vaginal discharge, and bleeding between periods.
Men infected with gonorrhea may feel painful urination, frequent urination, and painful and swollen testicles. These are manifestations of an infection in the urethra. There might also be a white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis. Also, the penis may also look redder and more tender than normal and there may also be swelling of the glands in the groin.
Gonorrhea can also infect the throat and the anus. An oral infection usually brings about a sore throat, and several pus-like materials on the tonsils or on the back of the throat. An anus that is infected may exhibit painful bowel movements, discharge, itching, and bloody stool. Infections to these areas may be transmitted to other parts of the body that is why immediate treatment is very important.
If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to different serious health complications. In women, the bacteria can easily go from the cervix to the uterus, and to the fallopian tubes which can cause the condition called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Approximately 15% of women who have infected cervix will develop PID. PID can cause infertility because of damaged fallopian tubes. Infected women also have a higher chance of having an ectopic pregnancy, which is very dangerous and life threatening.
Men who are infected and remain untreated may develop epididymitis, which causes pain in the testicles and may result to infertility. If you exhibit any of the gonorrhea symptoms, or think you may have been exposed, it is necessary to get tested for the infection immediately. Fortunately, there are a lot of STD clinics that offer tests and laboratory exams for Gonorrhea. People infected with gonorrhea have a higher chance of contracting Chlamydia or HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.

source: http://women-ng..com.ng/

A beleaguered All Progressives Congress on Thursday moved to contain the crisis in the House of Representatives, occasioned by allegations of budget fraud.

The APC-dominated House recently came under intense public scrutiny following allegations that lawmakers manipulated the 2016 budget to enrich themselves.

The party on Tuesday met with Abdulmumin Jibrin, the lawmaker at the centre of the crisis.

Mr. Jibrin is accusing Speaker Yakubu Dogara and other principal officers of the House of “padding” the budget.

In its latest move, the party on Thursday directed Mr. Jibrin to immediately stop distributing statements to the media with respect to the scandal.

Mr. Jibrin says Mr. Dogara, his deputy, Yusuf Lasun, House Whip, Alhassan Doguwa and Minority Leader, Leo Ogor attempted to smuggle up to N40 billion into the budget.

The lawmaker claims he foiled the fraud, and has circulated several documents to the media purporting to support that allegation.

In its letter Thursday, the APC said the situation in the house was embarrassing to the party.

“As you are aware, the Party and indeed the Government have not been happy over recent developments in the House of Representatives over the issue of 2015 budget. We found it embarrassing to have to deal with another new phenomenon you tagged “budget padding,” the party said in a statement signed by Lawal Shuaibu, its Deputy National Chairman for the Northern Zone.

“Arising from the series of the meeting we held with you over the subject matter, the National Working Committee has decided you henceforth avoid issuing any public statement on this matter.”

The APC also emphasised the scope of its order to Mr. Jibrin’s, saying, “This however, includes statements through social media or other means of transmitting an opinion on the matter to the public, as the party is now looking into it towards finding solution”.

It is not immediately clear if Mr. Jibrin would yield to his party’s latest demand.

Efforts to reach him proved abortive Thursday afternoon.

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/208079-budget-padding-embarrassed-apc-orders-jibrin-stop-media-war.html

The Nigerian government has blamed past administrations for the current economic crisis that has left many families struggling to feed and to survive.

The Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, said on Thursday that Nigerians are suffering today because past governments did not properly manage the country’s oil wealth.

Mr. Mohammed spoke at the 2016 edition of the All Nigeria Editors Conference in Port Harcourt. He urged the media to trace the story of hardship to its beginning.

“Nigeria has nothing to rely on to cushion the effects of the lost earnings. Many other oil producing countries and fellow OPEC members are faring better, because they saved for the rainy day. Saudi Arabia, with about one fifth of Nigeria’s population, has in foreign reserves about 600 billion dollars (which is 23 times what Nigeria has in foreign reserves),” he said.

“United Arab Emirates, with less than 10 million people, has 75 billion dollars in foreign reserves. Qatar, with 2.4 million people, has 36 billion dollars in foreign reserves. Even Angola, with just 24 million people, has about 25 billion dollars in foreign reserves,” Mr. Mohammed said.

There have been increasing criticisms of the government’s response to the economic crisis that has caused increase in prices, pay cuts and owed salaries, job losses and growing unemployment.

On Wednesday, fiery Catholic Priest, Ejike Mbaka, accused President Muhammadu Buhari of focusing more on fighting corruption than responding to an economic emergency that has left many families struggling or unable to feed.

“It is not easy everywhere. Hunger everywhere. As the president is fighting corruption, some of us are praying that he will equally fight hunger. Hunger is in the atmosphere,” Mr. Mbaka said in a sermon to his congregation on July 23, 2016.

“All this noise about EFCC arrest this and that, after one week that one is over. People are dying of hunger. Dollar is growing every day and naira is dying every day. Euro is rising every day and naira is collapsing every day. Pounds is on hike every day–on a mega level- and naira is dwindling–on a hyper level.

“The landlords are crying, tenants are lamenting. Sellers are crying. Buyers are lamenting. There is hunger on the street. Many students are being rusticated from school, why? Because they can’t pay for school feels. Proprietors are distressed. Many companies are winding up. The economy is hard.”

But the information minister, Mr. Mohammed, said Nigeria’s economy is hard hit by the fall in the price of crude oil because the country failed to save for the rainy day.

He said the previous governments also failed to invest in infrastructure.

Mr. Mohammed said Nigerians should know that people are suffering today because previous administrations did not save.

“We are not saying we should continue to lament about missed opportunities, the massive corruption or profligacy of the past, but is it is important for Nigerians to know where and when the rain started beating them; that no provision was made for any umbrella to shield them from the elements, and that indeed genuine efforts are now being made to turn things around,” he said.

Mr. Mohammed urged the media to spread the message of hope proposed by the current administration to the Nigerian people.

”We must give hope to our people, while also giving encouragement to those who are working non-stop to revamp our economy,” he said.

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/208087-nigerians-complain-hardship-nigerian-govt-blames-past-leaders.html

Former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, says there is nothing wrong with restructuring the country provided it is done within one Nigeria context.

Mr. Gowon said this when Shehu Sani, the Vice-Chairman, Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja on Wednesday.

Reacting to calls by some Nigerians to restructure the country, Mr. Gowon said there was nothing wrong with restructuring.

He recalled that Nigeria was restructured under his leadership as the head of state with the creation of states in 1967.

“We can restructure within one Nigeria context. I did it in 1967; we created states to stop eastern Nigeria from seceding.

“We had to do something to ensure the fear of their seceding did not exist; a serious issue of a part of the country wanting to breakaway when we already lost a part to Cameroon.

“If we had allowed the eastern region to go away, the map of Nigeria would have looked funny; it would have been tilted one way.

“So, we decided overnight to break the fear through the creation of states. If we had to save the country that was the only way to do it.

“We also ensured that no state was too big or too small to threaten the unity of the country,’’ he said.

Mr. Gowon, in 1967, announced the creation of 12 states, namely, North-Western, North-Eastern, Kano and North-Central states.

Others are, Benue-Plateau, Kwara, Western, Lagos, Mid-Western, Rivers (a South-Eastern state), East-Central and East-Central states.

The former head of state added that the call for true federalism by some Nigerians was also not a bad idea, as long as it was done within the context of the nation’s unity.

“What is true federalism? As long as it means respect for oneness of our country, it is alright, but if it means to breakaway, it is not my way of thinking’’, he said.

(NAN)

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/208038-gowon-backs-restructuring-nigeria-gives-condition.html

Organic menstrual cramp remedies could be accomplished via simple treatments that you simply could easily do at home. These organic remedies will assist you to reduce the symptoms that PMS brings so you can perform better regardless of getting your month-to-month period.

A healthy diet is an essential element to think about in attaining menstrual cramp relief. You need to consist of inside your healthy diet plan foods rich in proteins and carbohydrates. Green veggies are also great additions in your daily meals. Research show that eating meals high in carbohydrates improves women’s mood 30 minutes after usage.

Potassium-rich foods should also be included in your diet. These foods help you battle h2o retention. Among meals with high potassium content are dates, figs, sunflower seeds, tomatoes, and bananas.

Food supplements can also provide your body with essential nutrients that may not be attained through consuming foods on your own.

Serotonin, an important chemical in the physique, plays a significant part in regulating your mood. To increase the manufacturing of serotonin within the body, you should consume turkey. Milk and meals containing the amino acid tryptophan ought to also be included. Tryptophan is a key component within the manufacturing of serotonin.

Nutritional vitamins ought to be taken regularly to maintain your body powerful and battle the symptoms of PMS. Pick meals with high quantities of those. Otherwise, take supplementary multivitamins in tablets or capsules.

Regular eating helps in sustaining the degree of sugar inside your blood. This gives you much more power in your daily duties. You should consume little servings of food in little intervals than big meals in big intervals.

Rest is an outstanding way to achieve organic PMS relief. By doing this, you could reduce the tension that your body experiences. A great quantity of rest at night ought to be around six to 8 hrs.

You should also identify the factors that provide you with tension. By decreasing them, you also reduce stress inside your body. You may inquire for the health consultant some relaxation methods to cope up with everyday tension.

Hypothyroidism is a typical situation that ladies getting PMS suffer. Checking your thyroid ought to be done to possess it treated instantly. When this loss of thyroid perform is conquer, the symptoms of PMS may also be reduced or eliminated.

Reducing stimulants and usage of dairy and junk foods also aids in reducing PMS symptoms. Stimulants consist of tea, coffee, soft drinks, refined sugar, and chocolate.

Herbal dietary supplements are also obtainable in the market that helps a lot in decreasing PMS symptoms. You might ask your physician for extra advices on how you could reduce the serious signs and symptoms. With these simple remedies, you can accomplish organic PMS treatment.

http://women-ng..com.ng/2016/06/organic-menstrual-cramp-remedies.html

President Muhammadu Buhari has requested the Senate to confirm nominees into positions of Chairman, Executive Commissioner, and Non-Executive Commissioners of Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

In a letter dated August 2, 2016, sent to President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, Mr. Buhari nominated Olabiyi Durojaiye as chairman of the commission.

Mr. Durojaiye, a former senator, is to represent the South West.

The president also nominated Sunday Dare as the NCC’s Executive Commissioner, Stakeholders Management.

Mr. Dare will also represent the south west. He is currently special adviser and chief of staff to a former Lagos State governor, Bola Tinubu.

Those nominated as Non-Executive Commissioners are: Aliyu Sa’idu Abubakar (North East), Clement Omeiza Baiye (North Central), Okoi Ofem Obono Obla (South South), Ezekiel Yissa (North Central) and Ifeanyi Ararume (South East).

“The nominations are in accordance with Section 8(1) of the Nigerian Communications Commission Act 2003,” a statement by the president’s spokesperson, Femi Adesina, said on Tuesday.

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/207961-buhari-appoints-tinubu-aide-others-ncc-commissioners.html

Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Wednesday said he was against the disintegration of Nigeria, saying he was working with other leaders to find solutions to the renewed crisis in the Niger Delta.

Mr. Jonathan spoke to journalists at the presidential villa after a private meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari.

The former president, who met with Mr. President Buhari for about 15 minutes, said he was at the villa to report his international engagements to the incumbent president.

“One key thing is that having been a head of a government, a former president you become a state property, that’s the privilege you have. But every privilege has its corresponding responsibility, and once you become a state property, most of your international engagement, that has to do with public addresses and some international assignment becomes a national assignment, you brief the president. Even when I was here the former presidents used to do that and see me. I have been coming but most times I come in the night that’s why you don’t see me.

“I came to brief the president about some of my engagements. As you are aware I will be leading the AU elections monitoring team to Zambia, I came to brief the president about some of this external engagement. It is the tradition,” he said.

Mr. Jonathan said he was staunchly opposed to the secession of any part from the country.

He said Nigeria was only termed “great” because of its size and diversity and not necessarily because of its oil.

“It’s not just about me but about all the traditional rulers, elders and opinion leaders that are of the Ijaw ethnic nationality; we have been in touch to see that peace reigns in the country,” Mr. Jonathan said. “Those of you that have followed my talks when I was here, my emphasis is that we need a united Nigeria and I always emphasize that Nigeria is great not just about the oil – so many countries produce more oil than Nigeria nobody notices them.

“We are great because of our size, the human resources we have, the diversity we have, if we fragmentise the country into small components we will be forgotten by the world.”

A group known as Adaka Boro Avengers had threatened to declare an independent Niger Delta Republic on Monday, but said it cancelled the plan following the intervention of Mr. Jonathan and other leaders in the area.

“That has been my focal position and without peace, there cannot be development anywhere in the world,” the former president said. “We are all working collectively to see that issues are resolved.”

On the ongoing anti-corruption campaign that has seen several of his former appointees arrested and prosecuted, Mr. Jonathan said he would speak when most of the court cases are resolved.

“I don’t want to talk about that one because there are too many cases that are in court, it will not be fair to make comments, I will talk at the appropriate time when most of these things are resolved,” he said.

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/208018-what-i-told-buhari-jonathan.html

Once you've given birth, breast feeding is the single most important thing you can do to protect your baby and help to promote good health. Best of all, breast feeding is free.
Along with saving you money on HMR (Human Milk Replacement), breast feeding can also help you to keep your medical bills down. Babies that are fed with formula get sicker more often and more seriously than babies that are breast fed They also have more ear infections, respiratory infections, and other problems.
This can be even more true if your family has had a history of allergies. When a baby is breast fed, the antibodies pass on from the mother to the baby, helping to protect against illness and allergies. As the baby's system matures, his body will begin to make it's own antibodies, and he'll be more equipped to handle sensitivities of food.
Sucking on the breast will also help with the development or jaw alignment and the development of the cheekbone. For this very reason, there is less of the need for costly orthodontic work when the child gets older.
Unlike formula, breast milk is always ready, always available, convenient, and always the right temperature for feeding. Plus, it contains all of the vitamins and minerals your growing baby needs, saving you a lot of money.
Breast feeding also offers many benefits for the mom as well. The baby sucking at the breast will cause contractions right after birth, leading to less bleeding for the mom, and helping her uterus to it's shape before pregnancy much faster.
Breast feeding will also burn calories, so a mom can lose weight much faster than if she fed her baby with a bottle. Breast feeding will also create a special bond with the mother and the baby - which is one thing formula simply cannot do.

http://women-ng..com.ng/2016/08/benefits-of-breast-feeding.html

The founder of Daar Communications, accused of corruptly receiving N2.1 billion from #Dasukigate, took his lobby to become national chairman of Nigeria’s main opposition party, PDP, to Ogun State.

Raymond Dokpesi and his team arrived Conference Hotel, Sagamu at about 8.00 p.m. on Friday to seek the support of a former Ogun State governor, Gbenga Daniel.

At the hotel, Mr. Dokpesi sought Mr. Daniel’s support to secure the votes of the Ogun State delegates at the upcoming Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, convention.

Speaking after Mr. Daniel treated him and his team to a dinner, Mr. Dokpesi said the visit was to ask for his host’s support in view of his influence in the Ogun PDP.

The founder of Nigeria’s first private radio station said he and Mr. Daniel enjoyed a friendship that has existed for over 40 years.

‘We shall rebuild the party together,” he told his host. “I am at home in Ogun State. We have been friends for over 40 years and I believe when the time comes I will have the best votes from Ogun State.”

The aspirant said he was convinced Mr. Daniel would not run against him for the position of National Chairman as being insinuated.

The PDP, led by Ahmed Makarfi, has zoned the chairmanship position to Southern Nigeria, meaning both Mr. Dokpesi (Edo State) and Mr. Daniel (Ogun State) are eligible.

A possible hindrance to Mr. Dokpesi’s ambition, however, could be his corruption trial.

Corruption trial

Mr. Dokpesi is currently facing a six-count charge of money laundering at the Federal High Court, Abuja.

Before his prosecution, he was arrested and detained for weeks by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for allegedly receiving N2.1 billion from the office of the embattled ex-National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki, prior to the 2015 general elections. The money is believed to be part of the mismanaged billion dollar funds earmarked to purchase weapons for the military, in a scandal now known as #Dasukigate.

Mr. Dopkesi has denied any wrongdoing.

Upon his arraignment, the politician was granted bail by Justice Gabriel Kolawole of the Federal High Court for N200 million and two sureties.

Shortly after he regained freedom, Mr. Dokpesi disclosed his intention to run for the PDP national chairmanship seat and promised to roll out strategic programmes that would restore the party to its glorious days.

He said he would formally unveil his 10-point programme at the August 17 National convention in Port-Harcourt.

On Friday, Mr. Dokpesi’s host, Mr. Daniel, said he was ready to support the revival of the party.

Without making any commitment of support, Mr. Daniel wished his guest luck, saying what was paramount to him was strengthening the party.

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/207822-accused-laundering-n2-1-billion-dokpesi-lobbies-become-pdp-chairman.html

1. Wipe From the Front Towards the Back.
When wiping yourself after going to the toilet, wipe your vaginal area from the front to the back, not vice versa. The anus often harbours pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria which can be spread to the vagina if you wipe from the anus frontwards. Many urinary tract infections are caused by this common hygiene error.
2. Don't Wash your Vagina - Especially With Soap.
Your vagina cleans itself - so there is no need to "wash" or to douche your vagina. The vagina normally has a healthy balanced ecosystem inside it, where "good" bacteria keep the potentially "bad" microbes under control. Using soap, washes or perfumes can change the pH (acidity) of the vagina and upset the natural balance that helps to keep the vagina healthy.
3. Do Not Leave Tampons in Your Vagina for More Than 4 Hours.
Leaving tampons in place for longer than 4 hours or forgetting to change them can allow bacteria or other disease-causing microbes to breed. This can lead to infection, including the potentially fatal "toxic shock syndrome".
4. Change Sanitary Napkins and Panty Shields Regularly.
Sanitary napkins become smelly if they are left in place for too long. The unpleasant smell is caused by bacteria beginning to "rot" the napkin. When the rotting napkin rubs against the delicate skin inside your panties, it may cause sores or rashes.
5. Eat a Healthy Diet with Lots of Fresh, Unprocessed Foods.
Eating healthy foods such as vegetables and natural fats, and cutting down on refined foods and sugars in the diet is essential for a healthy body and a healthy vagina. The "good" bacteria in your vagina will help keep your vaginal flora in balance but you do need to "feed" them the right nutrients by eating fresh foods yourself.
6. Consider Hair Removal.
Removing hair from around the vagina and asking your partner to remove any hair from around or even on his penis, may help to prevent chafing. Chafing that occurs during sexual intercourse is one way that "bad" microbes can get through the skin barrier and cause an infection. You will notice areas that are red and irritated after sex, if chafing is occurring.
7. Use Sexual Lubricants.
Even if you have removed hair prior to sexual intercourse, you may still encounter irritation due to chafing. The chafing may be caused by shaving stubble, ingrown hairs after waxing, dry skin or a dry vagina. Lubricants made especially for reducing friction during sexual intercourse can be purchased from supermarkets, pharmacies and chemists, sex shops or online. A good sexual lubricant can help you to avoid a lot of post-coital discomfort!
8. Wear Cotton Panties and Allow Your Vaginal Area to "Breathe".
Enveloping your panty area with tight or synthetic clothing can allow a build up of moisture and perspiration that can't escape. This hot, moist environment is a breeding ground for bacteria and other potentially unpleasant microbes.
9. Regularly Check Your Vaginal Discharge.
Unusual or smelly vaginal secretions can indicate that you have a vaginal infection. Tell - tale signs are bad odour, an unusual colour or discomfort such as vaginal itching. Your doctor can diagnose and advise you on a course of treatment if it turns out that you require one.
10.See Your Doctor for Regular Pap Smears.
Pap smears are designed to pick up the early stages of cervical cancer. The current recommendation is to have a pap smear once every two years or once per year if you have previously had abnormal cells detected. While they may be somewhat unpleasant, pap smears do save lives!
Bonus Tip
Use a Cream Such as "LadySoothe" as Required to Cleanse and Freshen Your Vagina.
Sometimes we all need a little help to soothe an irritated, itchy, dry or smelly vagina. LadySoothe cream is not designed to treat vaginal infections, but can help to soothe and heal the delicate vaginal areas. This 99% natural, white cream contains tea tree as well as other naturally antifungal and antibacterial essential oils, which can help to restore the natural balance of flora in the vagina.

http://women-ng..com.ng/2016/07/a-healthy-vagina-top-ten-tips.html

A coaching client recently told me, "I'm convinced if two people are totally honest, they can be married." As a dating coach for midlifers, I hear from a lot of folks who are dating. I also stay current with the dating scene on the Internet, and read the profiles people write. Men often say that "honesty" is crucial for a relationship, while women rarely do. Let's take a look at this.

First I'm going to speculate as to why men say this and women don't, and then I want to talk about the place of honesty in a relationship.

As we know from research, and such books as "If Men Could Talk: Unlocking the Secret Language of Men," ), by Alon Gratch, Ph.D., men, as a rule, have more trouble verbalizing emotions, something most of us would also agree is crucial to an intimate relationship. Not that we need to talk about emotions all the time, but that it's necessary to know what you feel and to be able to communicate it when necessary. It becomes particularly important when the relationship meets an impasse. You need to what the problem really is. Are you picking on her about her outfit because you haven't had sex in 4 days? Are you accusing him of ignoring you all the time, when really he does a fair job most of the time, but tonight you're hungry and tired?

According to Emotional Intelligence research, men and women test the same overall, but men, on average, are not as empathic as women (Reuven BarOn). Simon-Baron, Cambridge professor of psychology and psychiatry agrees. His thesis in "The Essential Difference: The Truth About the Male and Female Brain) is: "The female brain is predominantly hard-wired for empathy. The male brain is predominantly hard-wired for understanding and building systems."

Of course the "average" man, statistically speaking, is not necessarily the individual sitting in front of you. But where there's smoke there's fire.So why the male emphasis on "honesty"? And are they referring to honesty about thoughts, feelings, facts, or what? If what we're being honest about is "the truth," how we feel is indisputable, and many facts are, but the truth of any given situation is relative, most of us would agree,or our relationships would not become the imbroglios they do"Mr. and Mrs. Smith does a great job or portraying marriage, and beings with him saying they've been married 5 years, and her saying "6". If there's an absolute truth ("reality", it's of little use in human relations.

Men engage more in what's called "selective remembering."He remembers the games he won, not the games he lost. He remembers when to change the oil in the car, but not his girl-friend's birthday. Selective listening may be part of it. He hears that the prime rate has gone down, but not that you'd like more time with him. I couldn't help wonder if this client would hear "honesty" if it were given.

"Honesty", I think, is a systems-word. Women, in their profiles, are more likely to focus on behaviors. "Nophilanderers," they say, and "no addicts." You see the difference . if he's unfaithful and honest about it ,they're still not interested. Doh.

Women use language to connect, and are more hard-wired for emotion. They enjoy experiencing it and talking about it, while men consider emotions a call to discharge by action. They are not as likely to use a verbal strategy to deal with a feeling.

Women have a larger corpus callosum, so it's easier for us to talk about emotions. TALKING about a FEELING is multi-tasking, and one of the hardest things we ask our brains to do.

Women also say thousands more words a day than men do. Testosterone causes silence. Men talk about facts and want clarity and brevity. Women also, according to Reuven Bar-on, have a greater sense of social responsibility. Does this preclude honesty? When we meet for lunch, we greet each other as Nancy, and Kelly, and Meg. Men? Fatso, and Stupid and Loser. Are men being more "honest"? If so, are they being less socially responsible, i.e., not caring if they hurt the other guy's feelings? I can't imagine a man's feelings being hurt by that, yet no woman would greet another woman with Big Butt, Drama Queen, or Boobless Wonder, though they might think it.

Would being 100% honest insure the survival of a relationship? No. The person might be "honest" about the fact that they could not live with you any more and were filing for divorce. Do men say this because they're attempting to systemize, with rules? Or because they've found women to be "dishonest"?

I've heard more than one man say, "I don't know why she left me. I thought we had a perfect marriage. (Women divorce men more often than vice versa.) Variations include, "She was deceptive. I didn't know anything was wrong," and "She told me why she was leaving, but it doesn't make any sense." A plea for "honesty" might be a plea for comprehensibility.

http://loveseekers-izang..com.ng/2010/08/is-honestythe-key-to-good-and-open.html

Over the years, one of the questions I have been asked most is how do I develop a stronger spiritual life? Most people tell me they spend a great deal of time praying but don't seem to get any answers, guidance or direction. In my experience I have found one sure-fire method of developing a stronger spiritual life and I will share it in this article. Most people have been taught that reading, studying, prayer and worship are the keys to stronger spiritual development. Those things definitely have their place and should be done no matter what your chosen spiritual practice is. However, reading, studying, prayer and worship will only take you so far. The key to spiritual development and growth is meditation. Prayer is us speaking to the universal powers, and is a one sided conversation. Meditation should follow prayer giving the universal powers the opportunity to speak to us and answer. When speaking of meditation I am not referring to the practice in which the meditation itself is the goal. That type of meditation is great for stress management but won't do much for spiritual growth. I speak of meditation with intention and purpose. The most effective way I have found to begin this practice is to get close to nature. Find a place out in nature that you can get to easily, is quiet and where you can remain undisturbed. Your home altar will work also, but out in nature is best. Go to your place every morning, sit and pray, then meditate with the intention and purpose of receiving the answers you seek. Then do the same every evening. Even 10 or 15 minutes twice daily will cause your spiritual life to grow exponentially. Find a method of meditation that works for you. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) works well for some while Transcendental Meditation works well for others. There are many methods you can learn. As you continue your practice it will slowly become easier for you to achieve the inner silence that is meditation. It is in the silence that answers come and growth begins. When you are able to achieve the silence easily you will then find you can enter that silence at will, no matter where you are. This is when your meditation becomes dynamic, as meditation should be. The only requirement for meditation is that you are comfortable and relaxed. I am comfortable and relaxed while taking a walk and therefore can enter the silence. Many times when I am creating or fixing something I take the time to ask how to do it, go to the silence, and get a very clear picture of how to complete the project. As you continue this practice you will develop greater awareness of all that is around you. Your intuition will become stronger and you will have a greatly expanded sense of knowing. You will begin to understand the spiritual communications that seldom come in language but rather in pictures, dreams, emotions, symbols and waking visions. It is then that you will realize you were receiving answers all along but simply did not know how to listen. Following this practice with dedication and commitment will open the door to unlimited spiritual growth and development as well as open two way communication with the spirit world. Don't be discouraged if it takes a while to learn. Be persistent in your practice and the rewards will be greater than you can imagine.

http://christianlifeministry..com.ng/2016/07/how-to-develop-stronger-spiritual-life.html

They say falling in love is the easy part. It's staying in love that's hard. Indeed, it takes work to make a relationship last. Yet, there will come a time when no matter how sure you are that your partner is still special to you, doubts and insecurities will plague your relationship. Painful as it is to admit, some relationships really do have to end. Is yours one of them? Or can it still be saved?
If you value your partner too much to give up on the relationship easily, read on to find out how you can help erase thoughts of ever leaving it.
1.Determine if your relationship is worth saving.
Before you even make attempts at rescuing your relationship, ask yourself first if it's really worth saving. Yes may be your fervent answer, but is it an honest one? Think of the long-term consequences and think hard. If you will stay in this marriage, what will it cost you? If you leave, how do you think your decision will affect you emotionally, mentally, physically, spiritually, and financially? Moreover, look back on better times. Were you, for the most part in your relationship, happy and contented? Do you think you still have a chance of regaining that feeling of completeness? Do you desire, with all your heart, to relive those wonderful moments when you were still madly and completely in love? Do you believe your love, or what's left of it, is worth saving?
2.Give the relationship your 100%.
If you do decide that you will do whatever it is needed to save your relationship, then you have to commit to that resolve a hundred percent. There should be no doubt in your mind that your love deserves a second chance. Change what needs to be changed. Understand, though, that as much as you want to, you cannot change another person. You can only influence them, so once you have made up your mind that you want your marriage to last, give it 100% focus and energy. Do not wait for your partner to make the first move. Show them what you want and if they want the same thing, they will also start to commit to the relationship 100%.
3. Maintain positive attitude all the way.
Take your relationship seriously but don't overdo it. It is possible to give it your 100% commitment and have fun at the same time. See the "task" of rescuing your relationship as an exciting challenge than a chore. Things will be easier for you this way. Suggest that you go out and do new things or go on new adventures. In return, appreciate even the small things your partner does for you.
Keeping your sense of humour intact will also go a long way. Do not start listing who's done what in your head. If you feel things are starting to slip again, take it all in good stride. Bickering and nagging will not solve anything. Light teasing and joking can do the trick oftentimes.
Though most couples are able to revive their relationship just by following the above tips religiously, there will be situations that call for the help of a Marriage Counsellor or Coach. If you feel that you need the help of a coach or counsellor, do not hesitate to seek the advice of these relationship experts.

http://sweethome001..com.ng/2016/07/the-first-three-steps-in-saving-your.html