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"Nigeria Must Be Better!!!" Says Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies

Princess Prof Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies Honoured as the National Grand Patron of Nigerian Youths


Princess Prof Adesanya has emerged victorious over other nominated candidates and has been honored with the prestigious title of 'National Grand Mentor of Nigerian Youths.' The award presented at a ceremony organised by the Nigeria Youth Convergence (NYC) took place at the prestigious Transcorp Hotel, yesterday, Saturday 10th, May 2025, where the Nigerian youths were gathered at the auspicious occasion.

The former 2019 Presidential candidate of the Mass Action Joint Alliance (MAJA) - Member of Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), at the occasion delivered an inspiring message to the women and young folks, encouraging them to remain relentless and not to settle for being second fiddles in the society.

Adesanya-Davies emphasized, "The importance of Nigerian youths in contributing positively to the nation's economy, stating that empowering the youths is synonymous with building a stronger nation, while neglecting them could lead to its downfall." She passionately emphasized "Her belief that Nigeria can become the nation of our dreams, urging the youths to continue pursuing positive initiatives and to take charge of their future."

In her speech, Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies encouraged youths and women folks, "To remain resilient and proactive in their efforts to effect necessary positive change in society." She highlighted, "The importance of youth engagement in nation-building and the potential for innovative ideas to drive progress." She further reminded the youths of the critical role that young people would play in shaping the future of Nigeria, and reinforced the call for collective action towards a brighter and more prosperous nation.

Earlier in an introductory speech, Comrade Dogo Shagari the President of the Nigeria Youth (NYC) Convergence, praised Princess Adesanya-Davies for her sterling, distinguished qualities, commitment, relentlessness and urged her to intensify her efforts in the quest to uplift the country. He highlighted, "The critical role that mentorship and leadership play in shaping the future of Nigeria, particularly through the engagement and empowerment of its youth and emphasize more inclusion of women in politics."

He further stated that, "This well deserved award is a clear testament to the moral rectitude and positive antecedents that the Princess professor has shown to the entire nation at large and youths (students) in particular in the field of education and her pursuit of Peace in the nation and on the entire globe."

Amb. Shagari who doubles as the National Chairman of Arewa Youth Council (AYC) and National Youth Convergence (NYC) called on the awardee to use the ceremony as a rallying point and stepping stone for collective action towards a brighter future for Nigerians especially the youths with a renewed focus on the potential of its youth population especially in 2027 upcoming presidential election.

In her acceptance speech, Her Excellency Bishop Prof Amb Adesanya-Davies thanked the NYC Secretariat for the Award, Her Key and Core Message is Peace!! Peace, Unity and progress is her identity: It is her unique strength and the reason people pay attention to her. "I love you both Nigerian Women and Youths, let peace and love shine through every word, gesture, and appearance in the nation; "she admonished, as the youths chants their slogan, "Build the Youth - Build the Nation! - Ignore the Youth, Destroy the Nation!"

The golden plaque of the Award reads: "This is to certify that Princess, Prof Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies has been duly nominated and confirmed as the 'National Grand Mentor of Nigerian Youth.' This nomination was organized by the Nigerian Youths Convergence under the watch of the National Youth Congress, Arewa Youth Council, Igbo Youth Association, Yoruba Youth Association, Niger Delta Youth Forum, and endorsed by other Global Youths Organizations as well. The nomination took place in March 2025, and Princess, Prof Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies emerged victorious, defeating other nominees for the position."

"We hereby endorse Princess, Prof Funmilayo Adesanya- Davies terms of service as National Grand Mentor of Nigerian Youths and pledged our support for her. Please accept our Congratulations, madam!" -
NIGERIA YOUTH CONVERGENCE (Motto: 'For Unity in Diversity.')

The event was convened by Amb. Comrade Dogo Shagari, the President of the National Youth (NYC) and flagged by the rest executive members of the NYC, namely: Amb Samuel Adegbola - National Secretary, Abdullahi Bilal - Head of Administration,
Alhaji Abdullahi Adamu -
Chief of Staff to the President, Christabel Ramsey - Woman Leader, and Comrade Onwe Peter - National Publicity Secretary, amongst others.

Prominent figures at the event, supporting the youths include Christian Association of Nigerian - CAN's former General Secretary, Barr Daramola Joseph and Apostle John Kareem of Sovereign Jesus Ministry, a retired Police top officer, Rev James Paul Adama, Convener, Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF), as well as Dr Ilesanmi Andrew and Comrade Nuhu Agwom amongst others. Some Princess family members were also present along with the gentle men press.

While giving her votes of thanks and closing speech, on behalf of the awardee, Dr Victoria O. Solomon, her long time student, praised Prof Adesanya-Davies for her dedication and contributions to youth and women empowerment and nation building. She expressed gratitude to the youth for recognizing her impact and encouraged her to continue her vital work in inspiring and mentoring the next generation.

Prof Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies has similarly recieved an award for her contributions to Peace and Stability in Nigeria while NANS presented her a Certificate of Credence this year. At an event which took place on Tuesday February 18th, 2025 at the School of Post Graduate Studies Hall, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. "The National Association of Nigeria (NANS) Secretariat, Abuja paid a courtesy call to pass a vote of confidence on Prof. Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, their lecturer of FOUR DECADES."

They honoured Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, the former Country President (CP) of United Nations Positive Livelihood Award Centre (UN-POLAC), and the newly appointed Int'l PEACE CONSUL (PC) of UN-POLAC for her contributions to promoting Peace and Stability in Nigeria. "She is our own MOTHER," the Student senators from the NANS' Secretariat said.

"We are confident that your leadership has had profound impacts on the lives of numerous students, and we believe it is fitting to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements. Please accept our sincerest appreciation for your unwavering commitment to education and your unrelenting support for students." - The news report stated.

Happy mother's day to our Sweet mother Bishop Amb Prof Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies today Mother's day 11th may 2025 - NYC

By
Alo Mathew

@Mynd44 @Lalasticlala

Commemorating the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

The Coalition of Nigerian Women Forum for Peace and Good Governance joins the global community in commemorating the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). This year's campaign underscores the urgent need to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls, a battle we must fight collectively until every woman and girl can live in safety, dignity, and freedom.

As a coalition committed to building a society where justice, equality, and peace prevail, we have tirelessly championed initiatives aimed at dismantling the structures that perpetuate GBV. Through grassroots advocacy, capacity-building workshops, legal aid programs, and the empowerment of survivors, we are making a tangible impact across communities in Nigeria.

Our flagship programs, such as the Pad the Girl Child initiative, not only address menstrual hygiene but also serve as a platform to educate young girls about their rights and empower them to speak up against abuse. By fostering partnerships with government agencies, civil society organizations, and international bodies, we are amplifying the call for stronger policies, better enforcement of laws, and the provision of adequate resources to combat GBV.

The Way Forward
Ending GBV requires collective action and sustained commitment. As we mark these 16 days, we call on:

The Government to prioritize the implementation of GBV-related laws and policies, ensuring swift justice for survivors and accountability for perpetrators.

The Private Sector to invest in programs that promote gender equality and support survivors' rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Communities and Religious Leaders to challenge harmful norms and practices that perpetuate violence.

Every Individual to speak out against all forms of violence and support efforts to protect vulnerable groups.


Gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue—it is a societal menace that impedes progress and development. The Coalition of Nigerian Women Forum for Peace and Good Governance remains resolute in its mission to create a Nigeria where GBV is a relic of the past. Together, let us transform awareness into action, and action into lasting change.

Our Vision: A society free of violence, driven by equality, peace, and good governance.

Signed,
Amb. Ruth Ishaku Bang
National Coordinator
Coalition of Nigerian Women Forum for Peace and Good Governance

CC
@Mynd44, @Lalasticlala

PRESS STATEMENT: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (03/11/2024)


NORTHERN YOUTH COUNCIL OF NIGERIA (NYCN) CONDEMNS THE TRIAL OF MINORS CHARGED WITH TREASON FOR END BAD GOVERNANCE PROTEST PARTICIPATION; URGES NORTHERN LEADERS TO RESCUE THE CHILDREN AND DEMANDS GOVERNMENT INVESTMENT IN EDUCATION AND COMPENSATION FOR VICTIMS

The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), the leading umbrella body representing the interests of young people across northern Nigeria, strongly condemns the ongoing trial of minors charged with treason for their involvement in the recent End Bad Governance protests. These young Nigerians were simply exercising their democratic rights by peacefully protesting and voicing concerns over governance issues that affect their futures.

This attack on minors is a direct attack on the North and a deliberate attempt to depopulate northern youth. The charges of treason represent a gross violation of their fundamental human rights and contravene both the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights agreements to which Nigeria is a party.

The NYCN calls on Northern leaders to rise up and take immediate action to protect these children from the government's excessive measures. We emphasize that the detention and trial of these minors undermine Nigeria's democratic principles, especially the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, which are crucial to building a just and progressive society.

Furthermore, the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria demands that the government focus on investing in education for the northern region, where educational resources remain woefully inadequate. Instead of criminalizing our youth, the government must prioritize giving them opportunities to thrive through education, addressing root causes like poverty and unemployment that contribute to discontent among the youth.

In addition, the NYCN demands compensation for the families of the minors whose rights have been infringed upon, as well as prosecution of those responsible for violating these children's fundamental rights. Justice must be served to prevent such abuses from reoccurring.

We call on the relevant authorities to:

1. Immediately and unconditionally release all detained minors. These young Nigerians should be reintegrated into society, where they can contribute positively to their communities and futures.


2. End the criminalization of peaceful protests. The government must uphold the constitutional rights of all citizens to free expression and assembly without fear of repression.


3. Invest in education in northern Nigeria. Education is key to empowering the next generation, fostering peace, and ensuring that Nigeria's youth are prepared to build a brighter future.


4. Compensate the victims of this gross infringement on their rights and hold those responsible for their illegal detention and mistreatment accountable.



The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for the rights and future of northern youth. We urge all stakeholders, including civil society organizations, international bodies, and northern leaders, to join us in this fight for justice.

In solidarity,
Mallam Abdullah Bilal Mnis
National Vice President, Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN)

CC Lalasticlala, Mynd44

Arewa Youth Council Condemned Attack on Students at Plateau State University Community.

The recent terrorist attack on the Plateau State University community has not only shocked but deeply saddened the Arewa Youth Council and the wider community. This appalling act of violence, resulting in the tragic loss of a student's life, underscores the urgent need for comprehensive security measures to protect our youth and educational institutions across the country.

The Arewa Youth Council stands in solidarity with the affected families and friends, offering our deepest condolences during this time of profound grief. No words can adequately express the sorrow and anguish felt by the entire youth community as we mourn the loss of one of our own.

At the core of our mission is the unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerian youth. It is imperative that immediate and decisive action be taken to address the security challenges facing our educational institutions. We call upon government authorities at all levels to prioritize the protection of our youth and swiftly implement measures to restore peace and security to the Plateau State University community.

In light of the ongoing security concerns, the Arewa youth council emphasizes the importance of suspending all ongoing examinations at Plateau State University until the security situation is brought under control. The safety of students, faculty, and residents must take precedence above all else during this tumultuous period.

Furthermore, the frequency of attacks by terrorist elements is a clear indication of the pressing need for a concerted effort by the Federal Government to stem this tide of violence. We urge the government to deploy necessary resources and personnel to apprehend those responsible for these reprehensible acts and bring them to justice swiftly.

As an organization committed to championing the rights and welfare of Nigerian youth, the Arewa Youth Council reaffirms our dedication to working collaboratively with relevant stakeholders to safeguard the integrity and security of educational institutions nationwide. We recognize that the protection of our youth is paramount to the future prosperity of our nation, and we remain steadfast in our resolve to ensure that every young Nigerian can pursue their education in a safe and secure environment.

In conclusion, the Arewa Youth Council reiterates our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the victim, and we stand in solidarity with the entire Plateau State University community during this challenging time. Together, we must unite in our efforts to combat terrorism and create a safer, more secure future for all Nigerian youth.

Amb. Dogo Shagari.

National President.
Arewa Youth Council

cc @lalasticlala @Mynd44

Press Statement by Peter Oladapo, National Vice President , Nigerian Youth Convergence, Addressing Newsmen in Ibadan

Ladies and gentlemen of the press,

Thank you for gathering here today as we address a matter of great significance to the Nigerian youth and indeed the entire populace. Under the current administration led by H.E Bola Tinubu, we have witnessed a distressing trend of oppressive electricity tariffs that disproportionately affect the livelihoods of our citizens, particularly the youth.

The Nigerian Youth Convergence condemns in the strongest terms the ongoing increase in electricity tariffs, which only serve to exacerbate the hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians. Access to reliable and affordable electricity is not a luxury but a fundamental necessity for our nation's progress and development.

As highlighted in our statement, electricity is the backbone of industrialization. Without it, our aspirations for sustainable economic growth remain elusive. We cannot overlook the fact that any hindrance to access electricity directly translates to underdevelopment for our nation.

Therefore, we call upon Nigerian youths to organize and reject all anti-people policies, including exorbitant electricity tariffs. Our collective action is pivotal in holding the government accountable and ensuring a fair and prosperous future for all.

It is imperative to recognize that the youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow but active participants in shaping the present. Our energy and commitment to social justice issues make us powerful agents of change. Through mobilization and unity, we can drive meaningful reform and demand accountability from those in power.

Democracy thrives on the active participation of its citizens. As such, we must hold the government accountable and demand transparency in policymaking. The Nigerian Youth Convergence remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and advocating for the welfare of our people.

Thank you.
CC

@lalasticlala @mynd44

Mynd44 lalasticlala

Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura of Nasarawa state has assured the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members posted to the state of their safety throughout their service year.

Al-Makura gave the assurance on Thursday during the swearing-in-ceremony of 2018 Batch C corps members posted to the state at the Dan Yamusa Orientation camp in Keffi LGA of the state.


He urged the corps members not to panic even if they are visiting the state for the first time but carry out their national duty with vigour and patriotism, while enjoying the hospitality of their host communities.

Al-Makura, who was represented by Abdulkareem Kana, Commissioner of Justice and Attorney General of the state, said despite communal clashes in some parts of the state in the past, adequate efforts had been put in place to protect lives and property, including those of corps members deployed to the state.

“My dear corp members, I know most of you are in Nasarawa state for the first time and may have come with different impressions about the people of Nasarawa state. I wish to assure you that our people are hospitable and peaceful. In this regard, I urge you to feel at home and integrate freely with our people. I assure you by the grace of the Almighty God your security is guaranteed in Nasarawa state throughout your service year,” he said.

The governor also urged the corps members to participate fully in all camp activities so as to be acquainted with the culture, values, occupation and traditions of the people of the state.

Earlier in her remark, the NYSC state Coordinator, Hajiya Zainab Isah, said 2,010 corps members were duly registered for the 2018 Batch C exercise, which comprises of 1,010 females and 1,000 males.

She appealed for assistance in the provision of new hostels, renovation of dilapidated structures in the Orientation Camp and the provision of a utility vehicle for inspection of corps members at different locations in the state.

“We believe that as a caring father that you have always been to us, you will come to our aid,” she said.

http://surecontents.com/2018/10/25/al-makura-assures-corps-members-of-safety-in-nasarawa/?preview=true&frame-nonce=58845df18e

MEN of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested a masquerader in Akure, Ondo state capital, over the killing of a job seeker, Femi Makanjuola, who was stabbed to death.

The suspects, Olu Olowokere and two others at large were alleged to have killed the deceased around Oke Aro area of the state capital while demanding money from him.

According to a source, the masqueraders demanded for N50 from the young man who was in the area to buy raw beans but he refused to give them money, while three of the masquerades pursued him and eventually stabbed him to death.

The source said Makanjuola who was residing with his brother had just secured a job with Dangote Cement Company, in Benin said “the young man planned to resume work next Monday and he was planning to cook beans on this fateful day when the masqueraders descended on him and stabbed him to death.


Speaking during the parade of the suspect, the State Police Public Relations Oddiver (PPRO) Femi Joseph, said two of the masquerades and their guide, Olowookere, have been arrested by men of the state police command while two others have taken to their heels.

Joseph said the command had begun investigation into the incident and said the arrested suspect has been assisting the police with relevant information on how to apprehend the two other suspects.

He said “All over the world what we know about masquerade dance is to entertain the people. What happened in Akure was to the contrary and absurd.

“Five young boys were on an outing with one of them acting as a masquerader, and they got to where one Femi Makanjuola was. The masqueraders demanded money which the deceased refused to give and this did not go down well with the masqueraders.

“This led to an argument between them and they eventually stabbed the deceased after he had been thoroughly beaten by the masqueraders and his followers. Investigation is ongoing towards apprehending other accomplices involved in the crime.

However, the suspect, Olowokere denied his involvement in the killing of Makanjuola but confirmed that the deceased was stabbed by one of his followers and said “I’m not the one who stabbed the boy, It’s one of the two masquerades that accompanied me that committed the crime.

“They went back to town after the outing which I didn’t authorise them, It is when the police came to my house that I realised what the boys had done. They are currently on the run,”
http://surecontents..com/2018/10/masqueraders-in-police-net-for-stabbing.html



A report by a cyber security solutions, Check Point Software Technologies, has said African countries are increasingly a choice target for cybercriminals, and it added that organisations are increasingly coming under cyber attacks.
Even though the continent’s internet penetration was only 35.2 per cent in December 2017, 19.2 per cent behind the world average, cybercrime is a serious threat to countries in Africa, it said.

One of the main challenges that the security industry in Africa, and globally, continuously fight against is mobile security.
It is hardly surprising given that Sub-Saharan Africa alone currently has a unique mobile subscriber penetration of 44 per cent, expected to hit 52 per cdent in 2025.
“The sheer economy of scale offered by mobile devices is incredibly appealing to cybercriminals. They are using every available opportunity to attack individuals and organisations through their mobile devices, including apps, particularly because these devices are so popular and people usually do not take as strict precautions when it comes to securing them as they would with their laptops for example,” explains Rick Rogers, Regional Director, Africa at Check Point.
Rogers said, “Check Point has discovered two major vulnerabilities related to mobile devices over the past month alone – Man-in-the-Disk, which our researchers discovered a new attack surface for Android apps exploiting a shortcoming in the way that Android apps use storage resources and Fake apps which researchers discovered a vulnerability in WhatsApp that allows a threat actor to intercept and manipulate messages sent by those in a group or private conversation.’’
According to him, it’s no surprise that mobile attacks are having a major impact on organisations in Nigeria.
“One of the key markets in Africa, Nigeria, is quickly becoming a mobile-first country, with mobile penetration increasing from 53 per cent in 2016 to 84 per cent in 2017. And considering the availability of phones at a lower price point, more Nigerians are now able to afford a mobile device,” he said. He said even though major malware like Ransomware, Cryptominer, and banking trojans have had, and continue to have a big impact, it was mobile attacks on Nigerian companies that were growing in prevalence.
When comparing the impact of these attacks to the global market, we find that Nigeria averaged 20 per cent – 35 per cent higher between January and August this year, which is not to be taken lightly, he explained.
“The current threat landscape has evolved into a much more aggressive beast. We are now experiencing Gen V (fifth generation) cyber-attacks, which are characterised as large-scale and fast moving across multiple industries.
“These sophisticated attacks on mobile, cloud and various enterprise networks easily bypass conventional defenses being used by most organisations today as they rely on older generations of security,” Rogers said.
Seeing that Africa is increasingly under threat from cybercriminals, the need for local businesses to partner with security specialists that can help them remain one step ahead of the game is essential.
To ensure that enterprises across Africa have access to the expertise and technology needed to protect themselves from sophisticated attacks on all fronts, the company has invested in growing its local teams in North, East and South Africa, SADC and West Africa through the following appointment:


http://surecontents.com/2018/10/01/nigeria-increasingly-becoming-target-of-cyber-attacks/?preview=true&frame-nonce=39024dd2ce



The presidency has described the outcome of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential primaries which held on Friday across the states with President Muhammadu Buhari as the sole aspirant, as a major boost to his success at next year’s general election.
Some of the results declared by governors or top party members in APC controlled states showed that Mr Buhari scored high number of votes even though he was in the U. S attending the 73rd United Nation General Assembly.
In his home state of Katsina, the state chapter announced that he scored 802,819 votes during the exercise in the state.
Other results are Kano 2,931,235, Zamfara 247,847 representing 98%, Jigawa 202,599 votes, Bauchi 786,032 and Sokoto 472, 344
The presidency, in a statement by spokesperson, Garba Shehu, said in a more direct way, the huge turnout of millions of registered party members at all voting centres proved that the president had an incomparable ability to reach out to people and mobilise votes.
“It is significant that President Buhari has won a major victory, fair and square through direct nationwide primary, a system that seeks to break the mould,”Mr Shehu said.
He also said Mr Buhari had shown that “you don’t have to be a party owner or go through a difficult inner party consensus to emerge as candidate.”
Beyond this being a victory for the party and the president, he said, it was also a message to everyone that development and good governance were more important to the Nigerian people than “divide and rule politics”.
“The message in the air from this unique achievement by the APC is that all true democratic parties in the country need to start raising their act by copying the leadership of the President.
“We thank everyone for their role in bringing about this victory,” he said.

http://surecontents.com/2018/09/29/apc-presidential-primaries-buharis-victory-excites-presidency-says-it-confirms-pulse-of-the-nation/

The President of the Senate Dr Bukola Saraki is currently leading former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in an online poll on twitter ahead of the presidential primaries of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

The poll posted on the twitter handle @PDP_RIVERS called on Nigerians to vote for the candidate whom they want to win the primary election and be the flag bearer of the PDP in the 2019 Presidential Election.



The poll read thus: It is settled, that the @OfficialPDPNig primaries will hold in Rivers State On Saturday 6th October 2018. Who do you think should be the best candidate to defeat President Buhari of the failed APC in the 2019 presidential election.

The poll listed only four aspirants: Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, President of the Senate Bukola Saraki, Sokoto state Governor Aminu Tambuwal and former Kano Governor and former APC Presidential aspirant Rabiu Kwankwaso.

As at the time of this report, a total of 1788 people had voted and Bukola Saraki was in the lead with 41 per cent of the votes, followed by Atiku Abubakar with 30 per cent of the votes, then Rabiu Kwankwaso with 21 per cent votes while Aminu Tambuwal trailed with 8 per cent of the votes.

The poll however did not just end at voting as many of those who supposedly voted went on to argue their points in the comments session of the tweet.

While some berated Saraki others supported him and while some didnt give Atiku any chance, others insisted that he is the only one that can effectively challenge Buhari in 2019.

Some sought to know why only four aspirants were listed, pointing out the all four of the aspirants betrayed PDP in 2015 when they defected to the APC to support Buhari against then President Goodluck Jonathan.

However, some of those who made comments used the opportunity to support President Muhammadu Buhari, saying that none of the aforementioned can defeat him.
http://surecontents.com/2018/09/29/pdp-presidential-primary-saraki-defeats-atiku-tambuwal-in-online-poll/

Mynd44 lalasticlala

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared its readiness to deliver a credible and acceptable governorship election in Osun State today to produce a successor to outgoing Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

The state Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mr Olusegun Agbaje, made the declaration on Friday at a press conference held at the commission’s office in Osogbo, the state capital.

Agbaje said all the vehicles which conveyed sensitive materials from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to the 30 local government areas of the state were successfully tracked to their destinations.

The REC, who was flanked by national officers of the commission, said: “INEC has put in place adequate preparation for the conduct of the Osun State governorship election on Saturday, 22nd of September, 2018 and as we speak, I can confidently say that the commission is fully ready to make the Osun State gubernatorial election a model that will be applauded by Nigerians and the international community.

“Production of a credible register of voters through a painstaking process that involved data consolidation, Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS), Business Rules for PVC, CVR and transfers, resulting in the registration of 807,598 (48 per cent) male and 874,897 (52 per cent) female, making a total of 1,682,495 registered voters in Osun State.”

He said enhancement of smart card readers had been completed for optimal performance, noting that “a total of 4,761 smart card readers will be used for the conduct of the election as follows: 1/PU= 3,010, 1/VP=755 and 3/RA=996 to serve as backup.”

On Wednesday’s movement of sensitive materials to the local government areas, Agbaje said: “The vehicles moved from the CBN to all LGAs and they got to their destinations very safely. They are property tracked from our headquarters here, we followed them and the vehicles also delivered safely. On the use of private vehicles, we only used them to carry our personnel.

“Our tracking devices were used for INEC vehicles, I mean, commission’s vehicles that carry sensitive materials and the card readers. They all moved together. Government cannot afford to buy all the vehicles needed for this election. So, we have to source for vehicles from outside. We used our vehicles that are properly tracked and the vehicles are going to be at those areas and they are the same ones that would bring the results back on Saturday.

“When we want to track the vehicles as they would be bringing results, maybe we would allow some media men into our facility to observe how these vehicles will move from there to this headquarters tomorrow night. The vehicles would remain in their destination with the security men that will follow them to the Registration Area Centre (RAC) this night to the Polling Units (PUs) tomorrow morning.”
http://surecontents..com/2018/09/osundecides-were-ready-to-deliver.html

Pidgin English

Why these 5 Nigerian cities speak the language

Portuguese influence contributes to why these Nigerian cities speak dope pidgin.


On September 19, 2018, news broke that Nigerian businessman and senator, Ben Murray-Bruce offered a woman, Dekpe Kate a job as Pidgin English Newscaster on Silverbird TV.

The news was broken by controversial Nigerian writer, Reno Omokri via his twitter page @RenoOmokri. Once again the conversation has centred around the beauty of pidgin English.


What is pidgin English?



What exatly is pidgin english? (ToyoBaby)

Also called, ‘broken’, it is an English-based Creole that has been adopted as a pseudo-lingua franca or nationally spoken language in Nigeria.

In some ways, due to the diversity of tribes and dialect and the inability to speak English as is, most Nigerians understand and speak pidgin as primary mode of communication.

It is the one language that we all understand and can speak without formal education or being in any particular crowd. Everybody, regardless of tribe or social standing speaks pidgin.

While the cities like Lagos, Abuja, Onitsha, and Kaduna speak pidgin, the very best pidgin is spoken in the South-South/Niger-Delta that encompasses Edo, Delta, Cross-River, Rivers, Bayelsa and Akwa-Ibom states.



The reason is simple. The Portuguese came into pillaged Nigeria for business around the 1470s.

In fact, a 1490s Portuguese trader wrote that at Benin, Cooper bracelets were more expensive than brass ones.

These Portuguese expeditionists were in Nigeria to trade mineral resources, spices, spirits, and cowrie shells before they discovered slave trade, an already booming business.

It is alleged by 234 Project that Benin Chiefs traded these slaves with the Portuguese who eventually exported a reported 3.5 million people to Europe and then America.

They had discovered Nigeria by accident while seeking a new trade route to Asia. Interestingly, even the word, ‘Lagos’ is from a Portuguese word for, ‘Lakes’ underlining the water-rich landscape.

When the Portuguese first landed, it was Benin that attracted them. Like it usually is in Nigeria, across the seven South-Southern states lie at least 10 tribes with each tribe accustomed to its own dialect.

They had to find a way to communicate with these people with whom they hoped to trade and further plunder for their personal enrichment and for selfish ends.

Thus, the earliest saunters into our own Creole, like the expeditonists had done across the Caribbean to create effective communication was to understand these people’s language and infuse theirs into it.

Like the Patois, spoken in Jamaica, pidgin was born, but it was initially based off Portuguese as a word like, ‘Sabi’, which meaning ‘to know’ in pidgin is of Portuguese origin.

While the pidgin we now speak now is English-based Creole, it started off Portuguese sense of invention before the British jumped on it as they had greater grounds and greater reach as the years rolled by.

The status of the South-South as the home that birthed riches in Pidgin had however been laid, the Portuguese influence spread across to modern Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa and Cross River States.

For this reason, the following Cities speak the best pidgin English;

5.) Yenogoa

The capital of Bayelsa State and known for its native Epie-Atissa Language, it is home to about 500,000 people who all speak the language.




Due to the questionable depth at speaking pidgin like all the yet-to-be-mentioned cities on this list, it comes at number 5.

It, however, gets in over other cities like Lagos because of the attractive way pidgin is spoken. When its inhabitants speak it way they use the sounds, ‘Sh’ and gossip in it.

You cannot help but admire.

4.) Port Harcourt

The capital of Rivers State, sometimes called ‘Lagos of the South-South’, it houses about 1.8 million people and is also called ‘ígúócha’ in Ikwerre.



It is known for its cosmopolitan vibes, hold-ups, streets that start with ‘Rumu-’, beautiful women and quality pidgin.

Sometimes mixed with local Ikwerre dialects, this denomination of pidgin is most known for words like, ‘Shwo’ when speakers want to ask, ‘Why?’

PH makes this list because pidgin is more widely spoken than in Yenogoa, with better attraction a fluency.

3.) Asaba

In truth, for the quality of pidgin spoken, vertically and for density, Asaba is probably at par with Port Harcourt. It just makes this list because it is in Delta.


Asaba, also called ‘Àhàbà’ in Igbo, is the capital of Delta State and is home to about 300,000 people. It is known for its colour, lively people and wonderful pidgin.

Asaba people are specifically blessed at how they drag their pidgin words towards the end and accentuate certain words in ways that will make the average pidgin speaker laugh.

It is truly a beauty to listen to them speak.

2.) Benin

Benin is a wonderful space where almost anyone can thrive. It is the lively capital of Edo State where nothing ever stops, it keeps going and stories abound.


We hear of their accommodating character, free spirit and willingness to scatter ground when needs br. Asides that, it is known for rubber and oil production.

Historically, Benin is also a Nigerian power to be reckoned with for its riches in culture, arts, craft, and creativity.

The beautiful women also make a pungent point as well as names that start with, ‘Osa’.

Their pidgin is so incredible, it feels like music as words tend to follow a particular sonic line that create a balance, you might lose yourself in the music and forget the words.

If a Benin tells you, ‘You nor dey shame?’, you might neglect the abusive tendency and just enjoy the way the pidgin being spoken.

It is an everyday language, vertically spoken more than in most Nigerian cities. The Portuguese history might also have contributed. It is also slightly discernible from Warri pidgin.

1.) Warri

Warri nor dey carry last, but this time, Warri carry first. Warri is simply home to be best, most inventive and crisp pidgin English in Nigeria.

It is almost impossible to think that Warri has another dialect asides pidgin. The vertical culture of pidgin in Warri cuts across everything.

Listening to someone like the rapper, Errigga gives a wonderful insight into just how good listening to Warri people speak pidgin is.

The way they also stress certain first sounds in like, ‘R’, ‘Sh’ or ‘O’, in words is simply admirable.

A major city in Delta, Warri is an oil hub that houses immense wealth amongst its 500,000 people across three major ethnic groups; Itsekiri, Urhobo and Ijaw.

Warri leads Benin on this list because pidgin is basically the first language in Warri. The average mind basically only knows Warri people for their beautiful pidgin prowess.

http://surecontents..com/2018/09/5-nigerian-cities-that-speak-best.html

Ede the home town of the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in the ongoing Osun governorship election Ademola Adeleke has been peaceful with large turnout of voters.

There are few vehicular movement as shops are closed for business.




Adeleke voted around 8:00am at a polling unit in Abogunde while his brother, Davido’s father, Adedeji Adeleke was sighted at another polling unit in Ede South ward o4 Alajue polling unit 10.



Election observers can be seen monitoring the voting process while some party agents who spoke to our correspondent said the security agents has done good job so far.
http://surecontents..com/2018/09/osundecides2018-large-turnout-in-ede-as.html

APC candidate Oyetola votes, speaks on likelihood of victory

The candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Gboyega Oyetola, has expressed optimism that he would win the governorship election in Osun State.

Mr Oyetola said this while casting his vote in his hometown in Iragbiji, Boripe Local Government Area.

The candidate voted at about 10:15 a.m. at PU1, Ward 2, LA Primary School, Popo Iragbiji, Boripe Local Government Area.

While addressing journalists after casting his vote, Mr. Oyetola said: “From the report reaching me, everything is still going on smoothly but it will be difficult to judge now”

When asked about the voting process, he said he believes INEC has advanced as the card reader appeared more efficient.

“I put my fingers and it captured once. It shows that we are advancing. I’m optimistic that at the of the day, we will emerge.”

A total of 48 parties are participating in the election including Mr Oyetola.

Mr Oyetola was the former Chief of Staff to the outgoing Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola.
http://surecontents..com/2018/09/osundecides2018-apc-candidate-oyetola.html

The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the ongoing governorship election in Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on Saturday said he would win the election if the process is free and fair.

He debunked various allegations against him saying they were all intended to frustrate him out of the race.



Adeleke who spoke to journalist shortly after he had cast his vote at about 8.08am at Unit 9, Ward 2, Abugunde in Ede in Osun State, stated that he was eminently qualified for the election.

“I am very optimistic, that I am going to win this election. All the allegations levelled against me are false. They tried to make sure that I did not contest this election. I am qualified, I have all it takes.



“They are all afraid of me because they all know that if I contest in this election and if it is a free and fair election, I am going to win.

“By the special grace of God, that is what is going to happen. I am going to win” he said.
http://surecontents..com/2018/09/osundecides2018-pdps-adeleke-is.html

THE Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Central Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy, Rear Admiral Saidu Garba, has given three reasons there’s decrease in oil theft and illegal oil refinery in the Niger Delta.

The naval chief itemised the reasons in Warri during his familiarisation tour of the bases under his command.

He commended the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS DELTA) and its Commander, Commodore Ibrahim Dewu, describing the base as the most critical security outfit to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

Giving reasons why the incidence of oil theft and illegal oil refining had reduced in the Central Naval Command’s area of responsibility, Garba said three major security strategies had been useful in containing the area.

“As you know, crude oil theft and other such criminal activities have reduced as a result of a number of measures put in place, one of which is the permanent operation at sea, which is called Operation Tsare-Teku. Tsare-Teku maintains a number of vessels at sea at all times.

“The second one is the Swamp bogey operation, whereby we go around demolishing all illegal infrastructure that have been put in place for illegal oil production.



“The third one is the choke-point regime, in which we have our houseboats at strategic points within the inner waterways, which are the backwaters, ensuring there are no illegal movement of any kind of illegally produced products in that general area.

“We’ve been able to sustain these three and with them, we have been able to curtail the flow of illicit oil activities in our area of responsibility,” he revealed.

The naval boss advised those engaging in illegal and criminal activities within the Delta rivers to turn a new leaf and seek other legal and peaceful means of livelihood.

He vowed to deal with anyone caught perpetrating criminality in the waterways according to the law.

“We are advising them to engage in productive ventures that will enable them make clean money that will allow them to live peacefully because these criminals are unable to enjoy whatever illicit gains they make through criminality because they still have to be living in hiding.

“They should come out, engage in productive and legal ventures because anyone we catch breaking the law will certainly face the law,” he warned.
http://surecontents..com/2018/09/3-reasons-theres-reduction-in-oil-theft.html

Malam Ibrahim Shekarau

Kano State Governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and former governor of
the state, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau have been described as politicians
of like minds whose political ideologies center on the overall
development of humanity.

The Kano state Deputy Chairman of the All Progressive Congress, Alhaji
Shehu Maigari, who made the assertion Monday in Kano, said the
recent defection of the Shekarau to APC from PDP was a blessing to the
party and the people of Kano.



He said, “Joining forces between Ganduje and Shekarau is a blessing
not only to the APC, Kano people, but also to Nigeria as a whole.
Politics is a game of believe and ideology and the two politicians
shared common beliefs and ideologies.

The deputy chairman was optimistic that the two politicians would work
together for the betterment of Kano and its people before and after
the 2019 general elections.


“I have said it sometimes ago that the alliance between Senator
Kwankwaso and Shekarau was a Kangaroo one and would not last longer
because they differed in beliefs and ideologies. I said the latter
will never sacrifice his good refutations that have been built for
decades for the former. Now I have been vindicated,” he said.

Maigari assured that the APC Kano state chapter was ready to treat
Shekarau and his teaming supporters like other members of the party
and without any discrimination, noting that the defection was a return
home journey.

“Shekarau and his supporters returned to a home they actively
participated in laying its foundation. So, it is not something new,
there were in this party before they decamped to the PDP due to some
circumstances,” he said.

http://surecontents..com/2018/09/shekarau-ganduje-politicians-of-like.html?m=1