U.S. Allocates Fresh $75 Million To Fight HIV/AIDS In Nigeria
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/21/u-s-allocates-fresh-75-million-to-fight-hiv-aids-in-nigeria/

The United State government has allocated an additional $75 million for HIV control activities in Nigeria, with about $25 million allocated for the Anti-Retroviral Treatment (ART) surge activities.

Ambassador Stuart Symington who disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the U.S delegation to Rivers state governor Nyesom Wike at Government House, Port-Harcourt, said People Living with HIV (PLHIV) globally require appropriate medical treatment in order to live a normal and healthy life.

To that effect, Symington said the U.S. delegation was in Rivers state to advocate for elimination of user-fees for all people living with HIV, antenatal care charges for pregnant women living with the virus, and other barriers hindering PLHIV from accessing health services.

The Ambassador noted that disbursement of the additional PEPFAR HIV funds are contingent upon Nigerian federal and state governments reducing or eliminating financial barriers to PLHIV access to services, in particular fees charged by healthcare facilities for non-essential services or those already provided by PEPFAR.

“The U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) administered by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), U.S. Department of Defense, and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is implementing an ART surge program in Rivers state to identify and provide treatment to approximately 180,000 PLHIV who have not previously received such,” he added.

Eyes Of Lagos reports gathered that, He assured that the United States remains committed to supporting Nigeria as it works to reduce and ultimately eliminate the scourge of HIV/AIDS among its people, adding that the increased funding to make anti-retrovirals available would enable more people living with HIV to lead healthy, productive lives until the day a cure for the virus is found.

The Ambassador while commending Governor Wike’s pronouncement to eliminate user fees, said such pronouncement should serve as an example to other states and the federal government.

INEC Commences Plan, Pledges To Improve Electoral System In 2023
source : https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/20/inec-commences-plan-pledges-to-improve-electoral-system-in-2023/

Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), says the commission has commenced plan for the 2023 general elections with the ongoing series of review of 2019 general elections.

Yakubu, disclosed this on Thursday at the 2019 Post Election Review Meeting With Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in Ikeja, Lagos, said the commission was determined to improving the electoral process.

“You would recall that we promised to undertake a comprehensive review of the 2019 general elections internally by way of self-appraisal and externally through wide-ranging consultations with stakeholders.

“In the last one and half months, we had 11 meetings in Abuja and Lagos, on the 2019 general elections. Today’s interaction with the Residents Electoral Commissioners is the 12th meeting so far.

“At the end of these series of meetings and consultations, we are convinced that the commission will learn vital lessons on the conduct of general elections – successes, challenges and the way forward.

“We consider these necessary because as a commission, we are committed to the improvement of the nation’s electoral process.

“We are convinced that immediately after the conclusion of one election, planning for the next election should quickly be in earnest. This is precisely what we are doing in this series of engagement,” Yakubu said.

He said that the commission was confident and had high hope that the RECs just like the other stakeholders would also rise to the occasion.

According to him, the first meeting in the series was held in Abuja with RECs, commission’s officials, all electoral officers in the 774 LGAs, leaders of political parties, the media, civil society organisations and security agencies among others.

The INEC chairman added that since July 8 in Lagos, the commission had met with the media, exclusively the line editors, editors and producers as well as collation and returning officers in its bid to improving electoral process.

“We have met the Vice Chancellors of Federal Universities who served as state collation officers for the Presidential Election and returning officers in the governorship elections as well as some senior academic who served as returning officers in some constituencies.

“We have met with all our administrative secretaries from all the state of the federations and FCT and the last meeting yesterday, we heard from the 20 departments and directorates in the commission’s headquarters in Abuja,” he said.

In his welcome address, Mr Sam Olumekun, the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, said that the conduct of 2019 elections would not be complete until the review of the exercise to chat the way forward.

“The 2019 general elections, in my opinion, have been successful and the efforts and the determination of the commission must be commended even though there may be critical issues which call for consideration and review for better performances in the future,” Olumekun said.

According to him, the political class have not helped matters in elections through their desperation and do-or-die attitude.

He added that holding collation or returning officers hostage to declare results under duress remained a repugnant and a discredit to the integrity of elections.

In his address, Dr Mustapha Lecky, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Planning, Monitoring and Strategy Committee (PMSC), said that the review of the policies and programmes of the last elections would serve as road map for Bayelsa and Kogi governorship elections and 2023 general elections.

Lecky said: “This process is essentially a SWOT-analysis; involving identification of our strengths, performances, weaknesses or lapses, opportunities missed or taken.

“Also to analyse impediments, bottlenecks or threats uncovered across all the processes before, during and fallout since the conduct of the 2019 general elections.”

In her goodwill message, Ms Monica Frassoni, President, European Centre for Electoral Support (ECES) said the centre considered it a privilege to be part of the review as well as giving assistance to INEC and electoral system in Nigeria.

Frassoni said: “2023 seems far way but it is not. During the discussions we have had over these days, we see that the task you have is difficult but achievable and is absolutely exciting and we are so glad to support you in these endeavours.”

The ECES president urged INEC to consider inclusion as the commission prepares for future elections, saying such would improve electoral process.

“This starts from taking time to listen and to interact,” she said.

Eyes Of Lagos report that the review meetings had in attendance RECs, National Commissioners, and Administrative Secretaries of the commission among others.

UNILAG, LASU Grounded As Varsity Workers Commence Strike
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/19/unilag-lasu-grounded-as-varsity-workers-commence-strike/

The Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Universities (SSANU) have commenced a five-day industrial action.

Eyes Of Lagos reports that members in the University of Lagos, Lagos State University, among others complied on Monday.

The directive by the Joint Action Committee of NASU and SSANU was issued to all branch chairmen of the unions across the country on Friday.

It explained that the action was as a result of the expiration of the 14-day ultimatum given to the Federal Government.

The workers accused the government of failing to show firm commitment towards resolving the issues raised by the unions, including the payment of earned allowances to members.

Others are the status of the university staff schools’ matter and the renegotiation of 2009 Agreements

Gov Akeredolu’s Wife Trains 1,000 Girls In ICT, Solar Energy
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/13/gov-akeredolus-wife-trains-1000-girls-in-ict-solar-energy/

Wife of the Ondo State Governor, Mrs Betty Akeredolu, says she has trained over one thousand girls in ICT, solar renewal energy and other skill acquisitions since inception of the Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu-led administration.

Akeredolu made this known on Monday at the opening of a training programme tagged: “Bemore Summer Bootcamp for Girls in Naija” held in Ilara-Mokin, Ifedore Local Government area of the state.

Eyes Of Lagos reports that the programme, which will end on Aug. 24, is the initiative of the governor’s wife.

It is aimed at training girls in various skills during the holiday.

The skills include: solar energy, ICT, Taekwondo, soap making and make-up, among others.

She said that the programme had changed the narrative of the girl-child to facilitate a world that would unleash the potential of the girls rather than regimenting them.

“We are here today to train another set of girls who will join their compatriots already on the battle field fighting for the cause of women, showing to the world that women can be more than what the society says they are.

“I am sure that after this training, my girls will stand for themselves; they will never put their dependence on any man.

“They will walk shoulder to shoulder, hand in hand with the male folk to achieve a prosperous society for us all.

“The duty is for persons of both genders to create a society that is free of violence, free from atrocities and from all forms of intimidation and harassment.

“A society that must grow and be sustained is a society that does not discriminate by any means, especially gender,” Akeredolu said.

The governor’s wife said that the training would also afford the girls the opportunity to be trained on taekwondo so as to enable them to provide self-defence when there was any issue of rape, by any means.

She expressed her displeasure over the rising cases of rape in the state in recent time, and urged victims to fight for their rights and never keep quiet anytime it occurred.

In his remarks, Mr Gbenga Edema, Chairman, Oil Producing Area Development Commission (OSOPADEC), described the governor’s wife as a nation builder.

Edema said that she had helped many girls to build their careers by catching them young in technology.

He said that the programme had afforded thousands of girls in the state the opportunity to develop solar for both commercial and domestic use.

Also, the Olowa of Igbara-Oke, Oba Adefarakanmi Agbede, commended the governor’s wife for introducing the girls to technology that would help them develop the nation.

Agbede said that the state was fortunate enough to have Akeredolu, assuring her that traditional rulers were solidly behind the present administration in state.

Nigerians Spend N730bn On Sports Betting Annually
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/13/nigerians-spend-n730bn-on-sports-betting-annually/

Nigerians spend over 730 billion Naira annually on sports betting and at least two billion naira is generated daily, recent research data shows.

Data also revealed that over 60 million Nigerian punters spend over 3, 000 naira daily placing bet stakes. At least there are 50 betting sites in Nigeria with the number growing annually.

Respondents, who spoke with the Eyes Of Lagos , said they placed bets to generate quick and easy income, and turn their passion for football into cash.

28-year-old Fashion designer, Segun Mukoro who bets at least once weekly said that it was the fastest way to double his income and although he might lose sometimes, the wins come big.

He said, “Yes I bet and I do so weekly, especially when there is a league playing. When you have been betting for long, it’s easier to know what odds to play and what teams to bet on.

“It is a guessing game and you get better with time. I know that it is addictive but I see it as an investment, a way to double my income,” Mukoro said.

Similarly, 23-year-old Eronini Kolapo explained that he used betting to augment his allowance as a student. He narrated that he started for fun, at first but soon built a network from it.

Kolapo’s almost-perfect predictions made him a leader of his sport betting ring where his peers pay him extra to place ‘sure’ bets for them.

His model is not strange as website and online channels where predictions are sold to help punters maximise betting stakes, populate social media.

However, there are tons of fraudulent platforms.

30-year-old Noble Obioria sold his agro-business and combined the proceeds with his savings to purchase predictions from a fraudulent channel that swindled him.

He spent almost one million naira trying to place a ‘sure’ stake with hope of making over ten million naira in return.

He told Eyes Of Lagos that losing all his money helped him realise how addicted he was to betting and how much he had given to the greed and dissatisfaction that came with regular betting.

Obioria also agreed with respondents who said that the presence of betting sites and platforms online made it too easy and fuelled the desire to place stakes.

Research statistics show that over 14 million bet stakes and payments are made over the internet every day. This, however, does not affect the rate of teeming punters at offline, physical shops.

A betting shop attendant, Niyi Adejujagbe said that he gets at least 500 stakes placed in his shop daily, adding that he has a crowd of punters as early as 9 am.

He said, “People place bets here every day. They still use shops very well because some don’t know how to use the websites and other people like to see their paper bet slips.”

Eyes Of Lagos reports that in five betting shops visited, there were only two women placing bets each a part of two male-dominated groups.

Jennifer Olisa said she enjoyed the process as she loved football and wanted to make money from it.

On the low participation of women in betting, she said women try to be more careful, especially with money.

She added that she took the risks to bet as her prediction most times, worked. However, she gets help from her male friends who had been betting for longer.

A psychologist, Dr Aimua Cole said that betting and gambling had high tendency to lead to depression in addicts, adding that it takes a toll on victim’s mental health.

She said, “Gambling addiction could lead to other serious effects, including loss of jobs, failed relationships, and severe debt.

“Problem gambling is often associated with mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.”

She also decried the high advertising rates of betting sites glamourized the habit, leading more young people to indulge in the addictive act.

Eyes Of Lagos also reports that leading betting platform Bet9ja took its advertising a notch higher by sponsoring the ongoing Big Brother Naija reality show.

This fourth season tagged ‘Pepper Dem’ designs games where housemates win Bet9ja coins with which they can purchase favours.

Meanwhile, outside the house, fans are encouraged to place bets using the links of the 25 housemates that were introduced into the show to support their favourite housemates.

Elise Claire Cosmetics Is Finally In Nigeria: How To Get Yours
https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/09/elise-claire-cosmetics-is-finally-in-nigeria-how-to-get-yours/


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You do not need to travel out of the country in order to buy yours; you can now visit their store in Nigeria or order online on their website eliseclairecosmetics.com/ng/ and you will be surprised at the huge number of Elise Claire Cosmetics and Skincare available on sale. I have heard a lot of people who visited the Elise Claire Cosmetics store to purchase products say “oh finally Elise Claire is finally here in Nigeria, Thank God“ or “oh finally Elise Claire is here, God bless you guys” and my heart just warms, because I remember how hard it was getting the real Elise Claire Cosmetics products here.

Osun Offers Free Train Ride For Eid-El-Kabir
source : https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/07/osun-offers-free-train-ride-for-eid-el-kabir/

Osun State Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, has approved free train ride for its citizens living in Lagos and environs to commemorate this year’s Eid-el-kabir celebration.

The government said the gesture is in continuation of its practice during festive periods.

The government said those travelling from towns on the route between Lagos State and Osun State would also benefit from the free trip.

A statement from the Office of the Chief Press Secretary, Mr Adeniyi Adesina said the free train transportation will convey holiday makers from Iddo Terminus of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Lagos to Nelson Mandela Freedom Park, Osogbo.

The schedule of movement indicates that the train will depart the Iddo Terminus in Lagos by 10am on Friday, August 9 and will be expected to arrive at the Nelson Mandela Freedom Park Train Station in Osogbo by 6pm of the same day.

According to him, for the return journey, the train will depart the Nelson Mandela Freedom Park Train Station in Osogbo at 10am on Tuesday, August 13, and arrive at the Iddo Terminus in Lagos by 6pm, of the same day.

Since assumption of office about eight months ago, the administration of Governor Oyetola has been providing free train services during festive periods to meet the needs of the people of the state who might not be able to afford the cost of transportation during festive periods.

The scheme is part of the social intervention programmes of the administration, aimed at providing succour for its citizens, with a view to saving them from untold hardship and stress they normally undergo during festive periods.

The government had extended similar gestures during the 2018 Christmas and New Year celebration; also during 2019 Eid-el-fitr as well as during the 2019 Easter celebration.

Thousands of Osun citizens have benefitted from the free train movement since it was initiated by Osun State government in 2011

Federal Government Fishes Out 24,000 Ghost Penioners
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/07/federal-government-fishes-out-24000-ghost-penioners/

The Pension Transitional Directorate (PTAD) yesterday said the federal government spent over N5 billion on payment of monthly pension to about 300,000 retirees of 270 parastatals and government privatised agencies.

The directorate also dropped 24,000 ghost pensioners from the pension pay roll at the end of its verification exercise conducted in 2017.

Eyes Of Lagos learnt that, PTAD’s executive secretary, Mrs Sharon Ikeazor, made the disclosure while speaking with newsmen on the sideline of the ongoing fourth phase of Pensioner Verification exercise in Maiduguri.

Ikeazor disclosed that the amount was spent on payment of pension monthly to retirees in the 270 agencies under its supervision.

She said the directorate also uncovered fraudulent activities by families of some deceased retirees, who continued to withdraw monies from their accounts without notifying the agency over their demise.

Ikeazor noted that prelude to the verification exercise, the agency received several notifications over the death of retirees, who died since 2012 and their pensions were still running.

The secretary lamented that the trend caused great loss to government and pledged to check the problem through the verification exercise.

“The verification gives us greater accountability to know we are paying the right pensioners. At the end of the exercise, pensioners could verify themselves from the comfort of their homes that they are still alive so that we stop payment to the deceased without denying rightful pensioners their monies because of the unscrupulous ones.

“Let the Next of Kin (NoK) of the deceased put in their death claims and we will pay them instead of defrauding government of monthly pension,” she said.

Ikeazor explained that the verification exercise was designed to address anomalies and complaints, to ensure accurate, reliable and transparency in pension administration.

She added that the agency was collaborating with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFFC), Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), security agencies and pension unions, to facilitate smooth conduct of the exercise.

According to her, the verification exercise is designed to capture retirees in 270 agencies including universities; tertiary education and health institutions as well as Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN).

Other agencies included Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), Nigeria Postal Service (NPS), Aluminum Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON), Nigeria Aviation Handling Company (NAHCO), Nigerian National Shipping Line and Assurance Bank, among others.

Policeman Seriously Disgraced For Refusing To Pay Sex Worker
source : https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/06/policeman-seriously-disgraced-for-refusing-to-pay-sex-worker/

There was mild drama around the Dangote Refinery, Idasho, Ibeju Lekki area of Lagos as a sex worker attempted to disgrace a Mobile Police officer for refusing to pay for her service.

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that the Mobile Police officer, believed to have been attached to provide security for workers at the Refinery site, reportedly sought the services of the sex worker and they agreed on N7,000 for an all-night romp.

Trouble started on Sunday morning, August 4, 2019, when the middle-aged sex worker demanded for her money. The Mobile Police officer reportedly was only able to offer her N1,000, which the lady used to pay for her cabin room. Irked by the response of the officer, the sex worker held him until she drew the attention of passers-by.

When asked what transpired between them, the sex worker explained what they had agreed on before the romp. At that point, the people that had gathered insisted that he should pay the lady the agreed fee. He remained adamant until they seized his torchlight and cap while asking him to respect his age and the uniform he had on him.

After haggling for a while, he eventually brought out N4,000 and handed over to the lady when he noticed that people were taking shots with their mobile phones. He then left the scene amidst boos and jeers from the people that had gathered to know what happened.

2023 Date For Change Of Baton – VON DG
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/06/2023-date-for-change-of-baton-von-dg/

Director general of Voice of Nigeria (DG), Osita Okechukwu has declared that 2023 is the date Nigerians are waiting to produce President of Igbo extraction.

He spoke while reacting to the call for nationwide protest by Global Coalition for Security and Democracy (GCSD) led by Omoyele Sowore, and the poor response to the call for protest in Enugu.

Okechukwu, who is also a chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), spoke after holding a meeting with WAWA Farmers Association.

“Methinks our people are aware that 2023 is the date we are waiting to elect Nigerian president of Igbo extraction. That’s why they didn’t participate in the protest. All one hears from the people one discussed with in the meeting with WAWA Farmers Association was their anger over incessant killings like that of Rev. Fr. Paul Offu. Instead of protest, they are urging Mr President to overhaul the security architecture and upgrade the security infrastructure. They cried that insecurity is hampering their farming activities,” Mr Okechukwu stated.

Asked why he thinks his people consider 2023 more important than the dire insecurity in the land, he said, “They know that in democracy, street protest will neither alter the crisis on the ground nor provide solution in the short run; for gains made in democracy throughout the world history were evolutionary and incremental not revolution now.”

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, Okechukwu added that “Nigerian president of Igbo extraction is our goal, which street protest will not enhance. We are in constitutional democracy, no matter the challenges, it is better to adhere to the cycle of elections provided in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.”

On Sowore’s detention, Mr Okechukwu said,

“I appeal for his release, on compassionate ground, for with time Sowore will come to terms that the huge gains democracy made in United States of America and in particular New York, where he resides were made incrementally over the years via periodic and cyclic elections not via revolution.”

Nigerian Taxify driver shot dead in South Africa
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/05/nigerian-taxify-driver-shot-dead-in-south-africa/


The Nigerian union in South Africa (NUSA) on Sunday confirmed the untimely death of Benjamin Okoronkwo, a 43-year-old Taxify driver, in Johannesburg.
Okoronkwo hails from Okposi, Ohaozara local government area in Ebonyi state.
According to a statement issued by Ikele Odefa, the union’s assistant national publicity secretary, the deceased was shot dead by unknown assailants at about 3am on August 3, in his car.
Eyes Of Lagos reports that NUSA has visited the scene of the ugly incident and subsequently opened a case of murder at Mofartview police station in Johannesburg south cluster.
Odefa said the deceased is survived by two children and a wife.
He said the union was calling yet again on law enforcement to investigate his murder and whoever was involved should be prosecuted.
The death toll of Nigerians killed in South Africa has continued to rise, with more than 120 lives lost since 2016.

ADSN Decries Gang Rape Of Female Student
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/05/adsn-decries-gang-rape-of-female-student/

Amid condemnation over the gang raping of a 300 level female student of Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba (AAUA), Ondo State, the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria (ADSN) has described the act as animalistic, crude and un-godly.

Members of the society made their stand on the development at a meeting held at Arigidi Akoko Area of the state.

It would be recalled that some military personnel at a check point along Akungba-Ikare few days ago, gang raped the female student.

The society Akoko divisional council condemned the act and described it as very animalistic, crude and very ungodly.

The duo of Alhaji Saliu Owolabi and Alban Alimi Maliki both state and divisional chairmen of the society called on the military to use its disciplinary machinery to deal with culprits.

They said this would serve as a deterrent to others who have no respect for female minors and womanhood at large.

Also, An Anglican cleric, Rev. Cannon Isaac Awowole noted that government was doing much to sensitise people against rape.

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, He particularly identified the recent state-wide sensitization by the wife of Ondo State governor, Mrs. Betty Anyawu Akeredolu where she condemned in strong terms the act of raping.

Awowole expressed his sympathy to the victim and urged government to make sure thorough investigation was conducted while culprits should not go unpunished.

Senator Omo-Agege urges oil firms to relocate headquarters to Niger Delta
source : https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/04/senator-omo-agege-urges-oil-firms-to-relocate-headquarters-to-niger-delta/

Deputy President of the Senate Ovie Omo-Agege has urged oil companies operating in the Niger Delta region to relocate their headquarters to the region.

Mr Yomi Odunuga, his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity in a statement on Saturday in Abuja, said that Omo-Agege made the call in his hometown, Orogun in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta.

Omo-Agege said that there was need for oil companies that left the region to return, given the prevailing peace and accelerating development in the region.

He reiterated his concern about the alleged plot to move the headquarters of the Nigerian Gas Company Ltd. in Ekpan-Warri to Abuja.

He said that the relocation of the headquarters of oil multinational companies to the Niger Delta would speed up the development of the area, create job opportunities for youths and reinforce the atmosphere of peace in the region.

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, He said, “I’m sure the message has been sent that they cannot move, they must remain.”

Speaking on the cleared ministerial nominees, Omo-Agege, said that the 43 nominees had passed through security screening before their names were sent to the Senate.

He expressed support for ongoing moves towards total reconciliation within All Progressives Congress.

Customs Seizes N458m Fake Drug, Foreign Rice In Ogun, Lagos
source : https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/04/customs-seizes-n458m-fake-drug-foreign-rice-in-ogun-lagos/

The federal operations unit (FOU), Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service, yesterday paraded 1200 pieces of compressed Indian hemp worth N12million intercepted from suspected smugglers.


Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, The unit also said it intercepted 1,239 cartons of fake viagra, sexual enhancements drugs with N409million and smuggled foreign parboiled rice worth N36.4million along the border.

FOU, is an anti-smuggling unit of the service in the South-Western part of the country and is saddled with the responsibility of serving as the last layer for smuggled or under-declared cargoes at the seaports or land borders.

However, taking journalists round the seizures yesterday, the Customs Area Controller of the unit, Compt. Mohammed Aliyu said the cargoes were intercepted on the highway. Speaking further, he said 2751 bags of rice worth N36.4million and 147 pieces of used tyres worth N1.02million were also intercepted by the unit.

He said, “the duty paid value of interceptions were N458million and we will not relent our effort until smuggling is suppressed to the barest minimum in the south west”.

“You can see, I told you the last time we came for the conference that smuggling will be suppressed because my officers are on their trail, anywhere they hide we shall get to them.”

It would be recalled that last week, the unit intercepted contrabands such as vehicles, pharmaceuticals and foreign parboiled rice worth N1.2billion from smugglers. The seizures include six vehicles namely, Toyota Tacoma, 2 Lexus ES350, 2 Toyota Highlander and Toyota Hilux with Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N242million were intercepted.

Others are 541 cartons of Original chest and lung tablets; 211 cartons of Analgin Injection; 238 cartons of Really Extra Diclofenac; 158 cartons of Double actions Labimol Diclogenac potassium capsules.

Also intercepted are 1698 cartons of Powermantlets, 671 kg of pangolin scales and 5, 226 bags of smuggled foreign parboiled rice all with Duty Paid Value of N1.01billion. He said, “Within a week, because of the motivations we just got which made some impact, we have intercepted six cars worth over N242million at various border points and various car mart.”

“The vehicles are Toyota Tacoma worth N47.8million, Lexus ES 350 at N16.5million, Toyota Highlander worth N47.5million and another Lexus ES RX 350L at N34million. Other vehicles are Toyota Hilux with Duty Paid value of N41.6million and Toyota Highlander at N54.5million.”

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18 Lekki toll collectors handed over to police


The Lekki Concession Company Limited has handed over 18 toll collectors, suspected to have defrauded it of huge sums of money, to the police for investigation.

The Managing Director, LCC, Mr Mubashiru Hassan, who made this known in a statement on Wednesday, said the affected employees took advantage of the operational hitches, which occurred in January, to perpetrate some sharp practices at the Admiralty Circle Toll Plaza in Lekki, Lagos.

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, According to him, following the resolution of the hitches in June, the operations department carried out an audit and discovered some anomalies in transactions, such as the abuse of the transaction unblock key and non-adherence to vehicle processing procedures, including the receipt of money from customers without processing the vehicles and non-issuance of toll receipts to customers after receiving payment.

“Other offences were sabotage of toll equipment; non-adherence to the controls and operating procedures, including the use of personal phones in the booths; processing of vehicles on another person’s profile; and recording and accounting for low traffic numbers during peak periods,” the statement said.

Hassan was quoted as saying that consequent upon the discovery, the affected workers were queried and a disciplinary committee was set up to look into the matter.

He stated, “Out of the 56 suspected staff members, six were exonerated and 18 were indicted in the first batch and handed over to the police on July 11, 2019, for further investigation, while the remaining 32 are still undergoing internal questioning before decisive action will be taken against them in line with the disciplinary policies of the company.

“The LCC management will never tolerate any fraudulent act and will handle such behaviour decisively.”

He described the affected workers as unrepentant as “they have not seen what they have done as a criminal offence.”

“Instead, they have gone on the social media to malign the competence and character of the management staff, especially the managing director and managers in the operations department, who investigated and unravelled the fraudulent act,” Hassan stated.

source : https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/01/18-lekki-toll-collectors-handed-over-to-police/

MTN board: Stakeholders commend Ernest Ndukwe’s appointment as chairman
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/01/mtn-board-stakeholders-commend-ernest-ndukwes-appointment-as-chairman/

Stakeholders in the telecom industry have commended the emergence of seasoned telecommunications technocrat Mr. Ernest Ndukwe has the Chairman of the Board of Directors of MTN Nigeria.

In a statement signed by its President, Patrick Ajudua, the New Dimension Shareholders Association stated, “The appointment is a welcome development because Ndukwe is tested and well experienced in the industry.” The Association expressed optimism that the new MTN Board headed by Ndukwe will ensure transparency, compliance with corporate governance, and value addition to the shareholders.”

In a similar vein, the President Proactive Shareholders Association, Taiwo Oderinde, urged the new board to shun any corporate governance lapses capable of dragging the image of the firm through the mud.

Eyes Of Lagos report that, He noted, “The new Chairman, Dr. Ndukwe, is a man with a wealth of experience and connections in the telecommunications sector. As a one-time head of NCC, I believe with the support of other members of the board, he will bring this to bear in his new responsibility. I congratulate him and he should not let the shareholders and other stakeholders down.”

Ndukwe, a former Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), is fondly called Mr. Telecoms for his vast experience and rich contributions to the growth of telecommunications industry over the years. A highly respected telecommunications professional, Dr Ndukwe’s career has gone full circle, starting from the private sector as the Managing Director of a notable telecommunications company, he moved into government service at the helm of the industry regulatory agency as EVC of NCC and back to the private sector and now Chairman of Nigeria’s largest operating company MTN.

Cerebral and a hands on manager, Ndukwe was an adjunct faculty at the Pan Atlantic University/Lagos Business School and also a Director of the School’s Infrastructure Center. His passion for human capacity development in the industry led to the birth of the Digital Bridge Institute, an international centre for telecommunications and information technology studies, during his tour of duty as EVC of NCC.

Man Bites Woman’s Breast During Fight In Asaba


A 22-year-old man, Precious Michael, who allegedly bit a woman on her breast, on Wednesday appeared in a Magistrates’ Court in Asaba, Delta.

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, The police charged Michael with assault and causing grievous hurt.

The Prosecution Counsel, Mrs Blessing Okafor , told the court that Michael assaulted Miss Ella Ibeawzie, near the Royal park Hotel, Asaba.

Okafor alleged that the defendant bit Ibeawzie on her breast and also knocked out her tooth during an altercation.

She alleged that the defendant also tore Ibeawzie’s dress, valued at N4,000.

The offence, she said, is punishable under sections 355 and 451 of the Criminal Code Cap C21 Vol 1 laws of Delta state of Nigeria 2006.

The accused pleaded not guilty.

Magistrate Edith Anumodu admitted the defendant to bail i the sum of N50,000 with one surety in like sum.

Anumodu ordered that the surety must provide an affidavit of mean.

She adjourned the case until Aug. 20 for definite hearing.

Source ; https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/08/01/man-bites-womans-breast-during-fight-in-asaba/

Photo is for illustration

Senator Abbo After Beating Up Nursing Mother, Receives Award Of Excellence
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/07/28/senator-abbo-after-beating-up-nursing-mother-receives-award-of-excellence/

The Senator representing Adamawa North Senatorial Zone, Sen. Elisha Abbo has received an award of excellence from members of inter-community awareness for change and development initiative in his office in Abuja.

The lawmaker, who made headlines recently for assaulting a nursing mother in a intimacy gadget shop in Abuja, assured that he is committed to serving humanity, using his office as a distinguished senator of the federal republic of Nigeria.

The Senator thanked the group for finding him worthy of such a prestigious “ICON of Democracy” Awards.

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, According to the lawmaker, his pending case of assault won’t deter him from providing dividends of democracy to his constituents and Nigerians in general.

New Music : Yhemmie ransome X Chinko Ekun X Danny S – Mafhor
download source : https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/07/09/new-music-yhemmie-ransome-x-chinko-ekun-x-danny-s-mafhor/

Another banger from Yhemmie Ransome as he comes through with another new smashing single titled “mafhor featuring Chinko Ekun , the able God crooner and Danny S aka Mr waka jeje
Yhemmie Ransome popularly known as Ransome was born 2nd of May in Ekiti State. So he decided to drop this single titled mafhor. this is a sure hit banger for the street as the slang has gone viral. Mafhor is produced by Tony Y mixed and mastered by Aje . It serves as a follow up to “Las Las “
Listen and Enjoy!

Naira Marley still in ikoyi prison and he will be out today - management
Source: https://www.instagram.com/p/ByHnO4LFPVA/?igshid=1dezdnveiykta

The inauguration ceremony of Lagos state governor Mr Olusola Babajide Sanwoolu and his deputy Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos

Source : spotlight Africa mag

Source : https://www.instagram.com/p/ByFdtUXlOLD/?igshid=xgcskdzll3qe

For more pics Visit : www.instagram.com/spotlightafricamag1

Federal Government Targets 20m Jobs As PMB Signs 2019 Budget
source : https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/05/29/federal-government-targets-20m-jobs-as-pmb-signs-2019-budget/


The federal government has unveiled strategies to create 20 million jobs from agriculture, construction, transport and the services sectors in the next four years. The minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enalemah, presented them yesterday in Abuja at a programme organised by the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to interface with stakeholders on strategies for Job creation by the federal government. Enalemeh spoke as President Muhhammadu Buhari signed into law the 2019 Appropriation Bill which was passed by the National Assembly (NASS) last month. Represented by the permanent secretary in the ministry, Mr. Edet Akpan, the minister said that his ministry had charged ITF to come up with revolutionary multi-faceted job wealth creation strategies that would provide a lasting solution to unemployment in the country. Eyes Of Lagos report that, The minister, who said that the ITF has delivered on the assignment, added that the ITF report has provided an opportunity for the government to chart a roadmap for the engagement of Nigerians in the identified sectors. He said: “I need not remind you that as you brainstorm and articulate ideas using your various professional experiences, technical capacity and ingenuity, you are also expected to proffer innovative and pragmatic solutions that will pave the way for job creation leading to growth and development of the nation’s economy through entrepreneurship and increase Growth Domestic Product (GDP).” In his presentation, the director-general of ITF, Mr Joseph Ari, said that despite the government’s social investment programmes to get Nigerians engaged such as the N-Power Initiative, TraderMoni, Government Enterprise Empowerment Programme (GEEP) and Home Grown School Feeding Programme (HGSF) among other numerous skills acquisition programmes being implemented by agencies like the ITF, unemployment still remains a teething challenge. Citing the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report of the fourth quarter of 2017 to the third quarter of 2018, Ari lamented that the total number of Nigerians that were unemployed increased from 17.6 million in fourth quarter of 2017 to 20.9million in third quarter of 2018. He said that this was despite the fact that the number of people in employment increased from 68.4 million in the third quarter of 2015 to 68.72 million in the third quarter of 2016. The figure rose to 69.09 million in the third quarter of 2017, and 69.53 million in the third quarter of 2018. “What the report indicated is that, although government efforts to create jobs may be having an impact, the number of unemployed is still rising,” he explained Ari said that Nigerian tertiary institutions of learning produce up to 500,000 graduates every year with only a fraction able to secure employment. “These are statistics that should bother any Nigerian,” he added. According to him, ITF has equipped over 450,000 Nigerians with skills and empowered all the beneficiaries with start-up packs within the last two years, and over 80 per cent of them were doing well. “The question that comes to mind is this: why the continued rise in the number of the unemployment figures despite these efforts. The answer to this is simple: Government, as seen in societies that have reduced unemployment to single digit figures, cannot do it alone. Indeed, in all societies that unemployment is single digit, they relied on sectors other than the government,” he explained. Ari, therefore, urged the stakeholders to contribute ideas on how the ITF report can be improved upon and also look at areas they would assist the government either through funding or by technical assistance. While assenting to the budget bill, President Buhari expressed reservations on its implementation due to what he described as some adjustments by NASS. He said that regardless of his signing of the document into law, he would take up the issue with the 9th National Assembly when it is inaugurated. The President had submitted a budget of N8.83trillion but the lawmakers jerked it up to N8.92trillion. Buhari recalled that some weeks ago, the National Assembly passed the 2019 Appropriation Bill which he signed into law yesterday, adding that “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the leadership of the National Assembly and indeed all the distinguished senators and honourable members for all the hard work they put in to get us here. “You will all recall that in December 2018 I presented our 2019 budget proposal with the theme: ‘Budget of Continuity’. Our goal was to use this budget to move the economy further on the path of inclusive, diversified and sustainable growth. “Back then, I proposed a total expenditure of N8.83 trillion to the National Assembly for appropriation targeting strategic and impactful projects and initiatives. However, the 2019 budget I will be signing into law today provides for aggregate expenditures of N8.92 trillion. This is an increase of N90.33 billion over our submission. “This increase reflects changes introduced by the National Assembly. In some areas, expenses we proposed were reduced while in other areas they were increased. There were also certain areas where new additions were introduced into the budget. More details of the approved budget will be provided by the minister of Budget and National Planning. “Of course, some of these changes will adversely impact our programmes making it difficult for us to achieve the objectives of the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP). “Although I will be signing this bill, it is my intention to continue to engage the National Assembly to ensure we deliver on our promises. I will, therefore, be engaging with the leadership of the 9th National Assembly, as soon as they emerge, to address some of our concerns with this budget. “We will also look at how to improve the budget process so that, amongst other things, we can speed up budget consideration processes and return the country to the January to December fiscal year timetable,” he said. The brief ceremony which was held in the president’s office at the presidential villa was witnessed by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara and the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu The Senate President Bukola Saraki showed up after the ceremony had ended. Dogara told State House correspondents that it was the duty of the legislature to tinker with the budget estimates sent by the executive. He averred that for the budget to return to the January-December cycle it must start with the early and timely submission of the budget to the National Assembly from the executive. On Buhari’s complaint about the increase in budget, Dogara said that the issues Buhari raised on certain reductions in the budget and some subheads increased were ongoing processes. “Above all, what I heard him say is the issue of aligning the appropriation from January to December just like the case in the private sector. I think that can really be achieved but it must start with the early and timely submission of the budget to the National Assembly from the executive. On the constant bickering between the executive and legislature on the increase of the budget, he said: “I have told you that the job of the National Assembly is not to agree with the executive, I don’t think any congress in the world does that. “By the constitution and design, the executive informs us what they intend to do and the representatives of the people in the National Assembly decide what the priorities are since they represent the people,” he said. Experts React Among the experts, who reacted to the president’s signing of the budget were the director-general of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCC), Mr. Muda Yusuf and the chief operating officer of InvestDate Consultig Limited, Mr. Ambrose Omordion. Yusuf said that the signing of the budget by the president was a welcome development, stressing that the country did not witness any undue delay in the signing of the document this time around. Yusuf said that implementation can commence even though the budget was increased. The issues around the increase can be sorted out. On that late passage of the budget, he said it was not good for the economy because it affects the speed at which the government can deliver capital project, especially infrastructure project. He added that the earlier the country was able to correct the abnormality, the better for the economy. To Omordion, the signing of the budget was in order as he remarked that the month of May was the earliest time the budget had been passed under the President Buhari administration. Omordion said that “our greatest disappointment is that while the 2019 budget could have heralded new beginnings, which should be reform-driven and growth-supportive, nothing seems to have changed. This further supports our expectations of continued economic underperformance over the medium-term.”

Dangote: Africa’s Biggest Philanthropist

The president of Dangote Group of Companies, Aliko Dangote, through his foundation, Aliko Dangote Foundation (AFD) has been recognised for his love for humanity in desiring to promote the welfare of the less privileged. Through unprecedented donations in Nigeria and in Africa in general, Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, the businessman has been helping victims of natural disasters, building schools and hospitals, and supporting initiatives to eradicate poverty and debilitating diseases such as polio. The Aliko Dangote Foundation is the Philanthropic endeavor of Alhaji Aliko Dangote. The main objective of the Foundation is to reduce the number of lives lost to malnutrition and disease. Combating Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) in children, is at the core of our programming. Improving the outcome of children’s lives, forms the basis for the work the Foundation is engaged in, using its investments in health, education, and economic empowerment to help lift people out of poverty. Aliko Dangote has been rated 11th of the 50 World’ Greatest leaders for 2019. The rating carried out by the Fortune Magazine, an American multinational business magazine headquartered in New York City, United States was released recently and focused mainly on the businesses run by the men and how they have used it to impact their society positively. The time-tested magazine, which first edition was published in February 1930, said the world’s greatest leaders both men and women are transforming the world and inspiring others to do so in business, government, philanthropy and the arts. “These thinkers, speakers, and doers make bold choices and take big risks- and move others to do the same”, the magazine declared. This is the first time Fortune magazine is recognizing and including Aliko Dangote in the annual ranking. Specifically, Dangote having popped up in the magazine’s radar earned nomination after being adjudged as having used business to acquire wealth and who is now converting his wealth into impactful philanthropy through his Aliko Dangote Foundation. The ranking of Dangote as one of the greatest business leaders has attracted comments by eminent persons around the world who described him as worthy of the nomination going by his business acumen and philanthropic gestures. Global business giant and founder of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Mr. Bill Gate extolled the efforts of Dangote in making businesses play roles in provision of sound public health through his various interventions in health care issues especially in the fight against malnutrition and routine polio. Gates, who himself was ranked along with Dangote, said “Aliko Dangote, through his leadership at the Aliko Dangote Foundation, is a key partner in the Polio eradication effort, strengthening routine immunisation and fighting malnutrition in Nigeria and across Africa. Aliko bridges the gap between private business and public health in a unique way and our shared belief that Nigeria will thrive when every Nigerian is able to thrive drives our partnership.” Renowned activist and co-founder of ONE, Paul David Hewson, popularly called Mr. Bono said he was not surprised at Mr. Dangote’s feat globally, saying his vision is as big as the African continent. Bono, a global campaigner on taking action to end extreme poverty especially in Africa said, “Aliko has a vision just the size of his continent, but with humility of somebody who has just started his first job. It’s no surprise to me that Fortune would recognise his leadership because we have seen first-hand, through his service on ONE’s Board, the benefits of his wise counsel and grace.” Also, the popular economic analyst, Mr. Bismark Rewane stated that, “Aliko remains understated but very potent and Africa’s most successful and decorated entrepreneur. He is a global financial and managerial behemoth.” Dangote as the Africa’s richest worth $16.4 billion, according to Bloomberg and the four publicly traded companies under the umbrella of his Dangote Industries now account for about a third of the value of the Nigerian stock exchange. That wealth is based on a big bet on Nigeria’s economic independence, Dangote’s peers give him credit for helping the country become self-sufficient in the sectors in which his companies compete (cement, agriculture and mining) The Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) is the Philanthropic endeavor of Aliko Dangote. The main objective of the Foundation is to reduce the number of lives lost to malnutrition and disease. The Foundation is poised to combat Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) in children, as the core of its programming. It has also resolved to use its investments in health, education, and economic empowerment to help lift people out of poverty. It would be recalled that Dangote was last year ranked among 75 most powerful persons on the planet, ahead of the Vice-President of the United States of America, Mike Pence. Aliko Dangote has been named among most powerful persons in the world for the past five consecutive years. According to the Forbe’s 2018 ranking of the World Powerful people, Dangote ranked among world leaders like Xi Jinping, the Chinese President, Vladimir Putin the Russian President and Donald Trump, the President of the US, all of whom were ranked first, second and third respectively. He was the only Nigerian on the list and one of the only two Africans who made the list with the other being the Egyptian President, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, who was ranked 45thmost powerful. In the same vein, he was named among the 100 most influential personalities in the world in 2018 by Time Magazine, leading business broadcast organisation. The CNBC had earlier in same year ranked Dangote as one of the 25 people which have had most profound impact on business and finance worldwide. He was rated the most influential African by Jeune Afrique in their classification of the most influential 50 Africans in 2018, and was also named the 6th most charitable person in the world in the same year according to Richtopia, a United Kingdom-based digital platform. He is, in addition, the richest African, according to Forbes. Dangote stepped up his humanitarian activities recently spending billions of Naira to build hospitals and critical hospital equipment, the lack of which has forced Nigerians of means to seek medical attention abroad. He also donated a N1.2 billion Business School complex to Bayero University in Kano and another one for the University of Ibadan Business School. Last month he donated 10 blocks of hall of students’ hostel that can accommodate 2,160 beds to the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna state The business mogul has continued through the Foundation by disbursing N10 billion to vulnerable women across the 774 local governments in the country. He made a donation of $2 million to the World Food Programme as part of efforts to help Pakistani nationals devastated by floods in the year 2010. Dangote was the chairperson of the Presidential Committee on Flood Relief, which raised over N11.35 billion, of which Dangote himself contributed N2.5 billion, an amount higher than the entire contribution from the 36 state governors in Nigeria. So far, the Foundation has spent over N7 billion in the troubled North Eastern part of Nigeria to see to the full reintegration of persons and communities ravaged by the activities of Boko Haram terrorists.

source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/05/29/dangote-africas-biggest-philanthropist/

Governor Okorocha of Imo state unveils the statue of Pres. #Buhari
source : https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/05/22/governor-okorocha-of-imo-state-unveils-the-statue-of-pres-buhari/

Eyes Of Lagos reports gathered that Governor Okorocha of Imo state unveils the statue of President #Buhari, see photo of the statue below

Kano Airport New Terminal 90 Percent Ready – Minister
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/05/22/kano-airport-new-terminal-90-percent-ready-minister/

As part of the ongoing commissioning of projects as the first term of President Mohammadu Buhari’s administration comes to an end, the Minister of State, (Aviation), Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, Sen. Hadi Sirika had revealed that the new airport terminal at the Aminu Kano international airport is 90 percent completed. Speaking at the Commissioning of some projects at the airport, the minister said “This is the first time that Kano has seen this significant progress and perhaps before the end of the year we will finish the international terminal and as you can see that currently, we are just doing the apron where the airplane will taxi and park and when that is done we will be able to deliver that project. So the project is 90 percent completed and we would want to score the 100 percent because the contractor is on site, money is provided, if government will extend to July, it will be possible for us to achieve the 100 percent just like we did for Port Harcourt and Abuja.” He further noted that “Kano is part of 157 projects initiated and undertaken by the government in aviation sector between 2015 and 2019. “Out of these 157 projects, 134 have been completed 100 percent. Some of them were inherited projects that we finished and most of them were new projects that we started and completed by the grace of God 100 percent. ” The remaining balance are in excess or most of them are in excess of 50 per cent and very few of them below 50 per cent completion. “We are in Kano because in Kano, we have done a lot. Few of them for example under NiMet, we have commissioned the regional office which will serve the seven north western states. “Under AIB, we have also commissioned the office which will also serve this zone and I think AIB has four offices in Lagos, Enugu, Abuja and Kano and we have commissioned that of Kano. ” Also, on the part of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), we have commissioned the DVOR which is the Doppler Very High Frequency Omnidirectional Radio Range equipment and the Instrument Landing System equipment and the radios for communication. These things that we do in aviation most of them are not things that the passenger or traveling public can notice and see because there are remote away from sight but they make aviation very safe and secure and also in addition very precise. They intended to bring down airplanes safely and also take them up to their various destinations. This is part of what we do that passengers don’t see. “So, more than 90 percent of what we do are off the eyes of the people. Aviation is not about terminal building, it is about quite a number of things that are working together. Terminal building itself is of significant importance because it creates the atmosphere and the ambience to drag towards us the people who would be flown all over the place. In that way it makes our jobs worth it and also it makes us improve upon our services and then our revenue generation.” Also speaking, the managing director of FAAN, Capt.Rabiu Yadudu said “we are going to commission all the completed projects that have been undertaken in the last four years. A lot have been commissioned along the line but on this day, we said we should complete it. Other projects commissioned include the Genre Aviation Terminal, (GAT) in Makia, Kano; Fire and Rescue Station, General Aviation Terminal, Abuja Airport; Independent Power Plant, Abuja Airport; Domestic Terminal D, Abuja Airport; and the Accident Rescue Centre at the Abuja airport.

Libya to deport another 131 Nigerians
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/05/22/libya-to-deport-another-131-nigerians/

Another batch of 131 Nigerians would be deported into the country on Wednesday, May 22, 2019 from the North African country – Libya.

The impending returnees, consisting of males, females and toddlers are expected to land in the country at 9pm on Wednesday through the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, A source close to one of the security agencies at the Lagos Airport, confided in our correspondent that a chartered aircraft, a Boeing 787-800, belonging to Buraq Airlines with the registration number 5ADMG would return the deportees to Nigeria.

The Nigerians are being deported from the war-torn North African country for illegally entering and residing in Libya.


The stranded Nigerians would be assisted back to the country through the humanitarian efforts of International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and special funding from European Union (EU) for reintegration process for the voluntary returnees after their futile attempts cross over to Europe through Libya.

The source told our correspondent that all the security agencies at the Lagos Airport had been notified of the impending return of the Nigerians.

Some of the security agencies included – the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Aviation Security (AVSEC), Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Police, Department of Security Service (DSS) and several others.

Besides, it is expected that officials of National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) would receive the deportees on arrival in Nigeria.

It would be recalled that the exercise has been ongoing since 2017 with the 66th flights performed late last month.

As at the last time, over 13, 000 Nigerians have been returned to the country through the exercise.

Most of the returnees had planned to use Libya as a departing point to Europe, but were later stranded in the North African country.

LG Boss Survive As 3 Others Die In Wukari-Jalingo Road Accident
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/05/22/lg-boss-survive-as-3-others-die-in-wukari-jalingo-road-accident/

At least three people reported to have died while three others sustain degree of injuries as chairman Donga Local Government Council of Taraba state Hon. Nashuka Pyeven survived in a motor accident. Nashuka, the local government boss was coming from Donga, his local government headquarters where he went to calm uprising between Tiv and Jukuns of his local government, he was heading to Jalingo Taraba state capital, Speaking with Eyes Of Lagos in Jalingo, Hon. Nashuka who looks strong said the accident was a head to head collusion with his official Hilux and a vehicle that was coming from Jalingo, he said three people died in the accident. The chairman also reveal that the accident occurred immediately after Mutum-Biu, a semi town along Wukari Jalingo high way, he said his driver had a fracture on his leg was admitted in a Hospital while both the bodies of the deceased and those who were injured were taken to the Mutum-Biu Hospital. Eyes Of Lagos gathered that the vehicle that had head to head collusion with the chairman’s official vehicle got damaged beyond repairs meanwhile a toll Van has already been mobilized to evacuate the official Hilux of the chairman to Jalingo, it also got damaged in the accident process.

Check out Yemi alade new gigantic hairstyle
Source : https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/05/21/check-out-yemi-alade-new-gigantic-hairstyle/

Eyes of Lagos gist
Yemi alade looking so beautiful with her new gigantic hairstyle

FG Rakes In N393.7bn From VAT In 4 Months
Source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/05/20/fg-rakes-in-n393-7bn-from-vat-in-4-months/

In the first four months of this year, the federal government generated the sum of N393.799billion from Value Added Tax (VAT), Eyes Of Lagos can authoritatively report. The amount, however. showed that the government did not meet the targeted revenue for the period by N128.670billion. Official data released by the government at the weekend indicated a deficit of N128.670billion of the amount budgeted for each of the months and the actual collection from January to April 2019. A breakdown of the VAT pool account showed that N100.759billion was realised by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in January while the sum of N104.468billion was posted as VAT revenue for February. The VAT income reported by the revenue agencies took a bearish form from its peak in February, resulting in the actual collection of N96.389billion and N92.181billion in March and April 2019 respectively. According to the Planning, Research and Statistics Department of FIRS, non-import (local) VAT collection for March amounted to N72.688billion. The details revealed that Lagos State topped the VAT collection chart with N44.168billion while the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja raked in N16.973billion. Oyo State had the second largest rate of non-import VAT collection of N2.144billion, followed by Kano and Rivers States which posted N1.180billion and N1.666billion correspondingly. Zamfara State recorded the lowest VAT collection in March as it contributed N2.834million into the VAT pool account with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The state, however, received the sum of N927.270million for the same. In February, Zamfara got N969.372million as revenue from VAT distribution from the Federation Account. Meanwhile, the federal government through the Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has deducted the sum of N770.424million from 11 states for the repayment of the bailout funds, they got between 2015 and 2017 to repay workers’ salaries. The states and the amount deducted from their accounts are; Benue N139.538million, Cross River N38.551million, Ebonyi N30.761million, Gombe N53.983million, Kogi N89.972million, Nasarawa N39.238million, Ogun 115.776million, Ondo N47.177million, Osun N82.028 million, Oyo N83.688million, and Sokoto N35.989million. The administration of President Muhammadu Buhari had given the sum of N1.75 trillion to the states as extra-statutory allocation known as bailout, according to data released by BudgIT, a research organisation. The loan which is to be repaid at nine per cent interest rate was to enable the states clear salary arrears at the time they were facing fiscal strains to meet their obligations to their workers. …Spends N37.543bn on foreign loans Similarly, all the 36 states of the federation, the federal government, and the FCT spent a total of N37.543billion on foreign loan servicing in March 2019. The chunk part of the money, N34.543billion, was paid by the federal government while all the states and the FCT jointly paid N3.175billion to service their foreign loans.

IN KETU: Blackout Imminent As Storm Destroys Electricity Poles, Houses
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/05/20/in-ketu-blackout-imminent-as-storm-destroys-electricity-poles-houses/

Residents of Ketu, Lagos Mainland, may be faced with power outage for an unpredictable period of time following the storm witnessed in the state on Monday, 20 May, 2019.

Photographs made available to Eyes Of Lagos showed the level of devastation the downpour visited on the Ketu community.


Roofs of houses were peeled out while some houses also collapsed.

In other parts of the state, the roads were completely flooded causing traffic gridlock as motorists attempted to wade through.





Traffic management and emergency response officers are making efforts around the state to contain the situation, attending to emergencies. �