Emmanuel Agwu had studied History and International Relations in Abia State University.

He graduated in 2005 but has not worked for any man except for his company, May17 Footwear.

Before he left school, job availability had started to wane in Nigeria but the number of graduates coming out of different universities continued to increase.

His father and uncle were shoe makers and he had developed an interest in the craft before he gained admission into the university.

Shoe making for Emmanuel is as simple as A, B, C, as he turns out good and beautiful shoes from his small but mighty workshop in few hours if he has to.

He makes huge supplies to Ghana from his small place somewhere around Fagba area of Lagos State because his shoes could pass for Italian shoes.


Bounce News was at his workshop to see how he goes about his craft, but Emmanuel believes the shoe making industry could grow and boost the economy if the government would consider his suggestions.

He gives attention to details.

"My shoes are cheaper than Italian Shoes yet more solid because I make shoes with much consideration given to our weather and our roads. I make them strong and durable for my customers,” he said.

“I will not deviate from this norm, he stressed; a little wonder he has no one working with him.

He started production of shoes under his label May17 in 2010 and since then his shoes have continued to improve in beauty and smartness.


His craft is not the reason he talked to Bounce News, but the fact that he believes that his idea is a reliable solution to the challenge facing Nigeria’s shoe production industry and the economy in general.

"Why have you not moved your business beyond this level to making substantial number of shoes?" Bounce News asked.

He gave a wide smile and began to dish out ideas that the government could apply to transform the sector if the “Buy Made in Nigeria” strategy would work.

“It is not about giving loans to people to boost their business. What will turn this sector around is not what the government is doing at the moment. People will take the loans and not be able to put it to effective use.

“If you take loan and you still spend so much on electricity generating plant, buying fuel and maintaining the plant, you will come back to zero level after some years. You will have no ready market to supply your shoes. Our population is our market but the government must help us to explore it maximally.

“I have not made any move for a loan because I cannot even use the modern machines that people who make shoes in large number use at the moment. I need training to be able to do that,” he said, still quite enthusiastic that the idea he has will work.

"What is this idea of yours?" Bounce News asked again.

“Look at it this way. The government has the highest number of employees and the Procurement Act should be made to factor in workers in different government offices. Make them get shoes made in Nigeria and subsequently spread the payment for the shoes across months for them to pay without feeling the pains of buying a pair of shoes.

“Consider a government worker having to buy a shoe at an affordable price and that payment is spread across 5 months. He will gladly make payment for the shoes. He can even afford to give a pair of shoes as a gift to his friend,” he explained.

Emmanuel believes this strategy will create a ready market for shoe makers whose products must have been evaluated and passed by government agencies based on durability, aesthetics and other yardsticks.

He also suggested that the government should call for shoe makers to present their samples and subsequently request that those selected should come to a designated place to make shoes similar to samples they had presented to be sure they made them.

“I am very much aware of what happens in the public sector. How some persons hijack the process and bring persons who do not know anything about what they claim just to make money,” he stated.

The shoe maker believes that a ready market for shoe makers in Nigeria will motivate shoes makers to perfect their craft and compete favourably with foreign shoes.This will further reduce importation of shoes and reflate the economy still trying to wriggle out of recession.

He has a bright idea that could work, but will the government follow this route and boost the economy or will they continue to dish out loans while the power sector has remained in the dark ages? We shall find out in coming years.

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/bounceexclusive-this-shoe-makers-solution-will-change-nigerias-shoe-industry-20170608

None of the three Nigerian athletes that competed on Monday night in the Women’s 400m semifinal race at the ongoing IAAF World Championships made it to the final.

The trio fell like a pack of cards; finishing 6th, 7th and 8th in their respective semifinals.

Yinka Ajayi who was the ‘fastest’ among the Nigerian trio finished 6th in Heat 2 with a time of 52.10secs.

Patience George-Okon was 7th in her own Heat where she ran a time of 52.60secs

Margaret Bamgbose was the first from the rear in her own semifinal race as she posted a time of 52.23.

The trio will now have to dust themselves fast enough and aim better in the 4x400m relays event which starts on Saturday.

[b]Source:[/b]IAAF World Championships: Nigerian Trio Fail 400m Semi Final Test http://news.bounce.ng/Content/iaaf-world-championships-nigerian-trio-fail-400m-semi-final-test-20170808

In apparent shock and disbelief, Awwal Mohammed collapsed and fainted beside his colleagues who were also stunned after the visiting team scored from 20 yards out
Shooting Stars are momentarily out of the relegation zone in the Nigeria Professional League.

If that calls for some sort of celebration, a bigger one will be required for the lucky fan that escaped death during Sunday's game against Gombe United in Ibadan.

Awwal Mohammed slumped in the stands when visiting Gombe United took a shock lead in the Match Day 33 fixture at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba Ibadan.

A substitute for Gombe United, Joseph Onoja took a shot from about 25 yard to beat badly positioned Adamu Abubakar to his right and silenced the once vociferous home fans.

Save for the security personnel who kept their eyes on the stand and few of the fans who noticed his fall among his friends; this could have been another casualty.

Awwal was taken out to the sidelines and given proper medical attention that revived him.

Just two weeks ago Shooting Stars vice captain, Ebiaku Promise also collapsed during a match against Enyimba FC and was rushed off the pitch before being resuscitated.

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/npfl-fan-escapes-death-as-shooting-stars-win-in-ibadan-20170807

Especially when the bills have not been paid in full, the fear of power distribution agents is the beginning of Wisdom.

In this video exclusive to Bounce News, a woman is captured holding off 4 able bodied officials of the Ikeja Electric Company, preventing them from ascending the ladder to disconnect her line.

Considering how these officials are known to be ruthless when it comes to power disconnection, even with the bills which don't tally with the poor supply of electricity, she is very bold.

Source: http://bounce.ng/article/413774789

See video below:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zu1mtrraFLo&feature=push-u&attr_tag=1PDg-ld5aD4YTPOC-6

It’s now a level playing field as venture capitalists and corporate organizations aren’t the only ones staking their money in tech startups.

Celebrities are also ploughing millions of dollars into new ideas in the hope that one day they'll become the next Google or Facebook.

Everyone knows Jay Z.

The rapper and business man put his money in Uber in 2011. The e-taxi service is now worth 200 times more than he initially invested.

In 2017, he launched a new venture capital firm called Arrive, to work with early-stage startups, and offer investment of capital as well as assistance with business development.

There are many other celebrities who have put their weight behind ideas that they are passionate about.

Digital Influencer, Ifeanyi Abraham says Nigerians are not left out of this new 'celebrity-investor' status.

“Tech in Nigeria is becoming a much more attractive investment and smart celebrities like Don Jazzy, El Dee and Mr Eazi are joining a trend that started globally with stars like Ashton Kutcher, Kobe Bryant, Serena Williams and Robert Downey Junior.

“If you look at the kind of products Nigerian celebrities are investing in, they are mainly consumer products which benefit from the celebrity’s star power and ability to drive publicity, awareness and reach potential customers using social media.”

He said celebrities have turned a new leaf and looked past just becoming ambassadors for companies to investing in the things that they love.

"In the past, brands paid these celebrities fees for brand ambassadorship but the new crop of celebrities we see are aligning with companies that fit their personas and align with their passions." Ifeanyi Abraham said.

Here are 4 whys celebrities can invest in tech businesses:

1. Celebrities can latch on to a trend


Everybody loves a smart phone and Oluwatosin Oluwole Ajibade took advantage for this cellular craze to create a phone swapping trend.

Nobody knows him as Tosin, but when you hear “Zagadat” and see a straw hat, you will know that its Mr Eazi.

He is currently signed to Wizkid’s Starboy Worldwide record label.

In all his musical glory, Mr. Eazi has co-founded 2 tech startups, first it was Obiwezy which was launched in 2014, a company that was listed among 10 of the startups in 2015, but unfortunately, due to certain issues between both co-founders, they decided to dissolve the partnership.

Mr Eazi in his entrepreneurial restlessness co-founded another tech startup called phonetrader.ng in September 2015.

Phonetrader.ng, in partnership with Airtel, sells top quality used smartphones, and offer trade-ins/swaps for customers.

The company has a staff strength of 12 including tech support, marketing, sales, engineering and dispatch.

They have sold, repaired, and swapped over 200 smartphones since September 2015.





2. Celebrities can help build structures

In every advanced society, access to internet is not a luxury, it is a necessity, in bridging the gap of this ‘necessity', Mavin Records CEO Don Jazzy and Dele Odufuye CEO of Tsaboin launched Flobyt WiFi as co-founders.

Flobyt is a free WiFi service installed across partner locations in Lagos like eateries, parks, taxis, buses, restaurants, cafés and many other businesses.

The idea is to walk into a partner outlet, patronize them and use the internet without restrictions.

(Did you think Don Jazzy is always on Twitter because he is jobless? Nahhhhhhh.... he is building his brand and networking).

As far back as 1998, ElDee the Don, was a key member of the defunct Trybesmen rap group; one of the pioneer rap groups in Nigeria.

Over the years, he has worn many caps as a producer, songwriter and record label executive, but quit the music scene to concentrate on Playdata.

The rapper, who also writes codes, started Playdata as an analytical tech solution designed for musicians and advertisers to accurately track audio broadcasts in an efficient, reliable, and transparent way.

Playdata solves the current problem that comes with not knowing exactly how many times a song or campaign jingle has played on radio, and caters for everyone in the music value chain.

3. Celebrities can help solve problems


Ubi Franklin wants his clothes washed at his own convenience, so he started an online laundry service called ‘Instant Pick Up’.

The artiste-manager/record label executive of Made Men Music Group decided to solve a problem that is common in a city where the tempo moves almost at the speed of light.

Workers are always trying to meet tight deadlines and really have no time to wash their clothes.

“The Instant Pick Up app, would not be just an everyday pick up app, this is what will guaranty quality and excellent on-time pick up delivery of laundry, catering for a wide population of Nigeria from across various demographics.” He said about the app.

4. Celebrities can join a tech workforce and make a difference


Ajebutter22 has been making hits, on a low key, with songs like “Omo Pastor”, “Serenre” and “Bad Gang”.

Ajebutter22 is a Petroleum Engineering graduate from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom with a Masters Degree in Engineering Project Management.

Unlike most Nigerian artistes, Ajebutter22 drops his song at intervals because his techie part is unleashed during the day time to occupy his daily grind.

He is a marketing and business strategist at global IT company, Cisco.

Before joining Cisco, he was at Gamsole, a Nigerian-born mobile game production company.

Next time you hear their tracks or spot them in a mall, remember they are more than just screen kings and queens; they are entrepreneurs who have a stake in the future. You better join in...

Seems like Dammy Krane would not be coming to Nigeria anytime soon.

The musician will appear in court on August 17, 2017.

According to the Miami-Dade County Criminal Justice Online System, the Felony case against Krane indicates that his arraignment hearing had to be rescheduled.

Dammy Krane will now appear in court at 9:15 am on the said date at the Justice Building, Room 4-3 with Courtney Erik as his defence attorney and Miguel De La O as the Judge.

7 fake credit cards were found by the Police in Krane's trouser pocket.

The police say Krane used one of those cards to book his flight with private jet booking company, TapJet.

He was arrested for credit card forgery and grand theft.

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/dammy-krane-to-appear-in-court-on-august-17-20170803

Adaeze Yobo is by all ramifications, a stunner.

As a starry-eyed 18-year old, she clinched the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MGBN) crown and proceeded to steal the heart of retired Nigerian Super Eagles Captain, Joseph Yobo not too long after.

The pair would later get married and go on to have two sons, then in February this year, they welcomed a lovely baby girl.

As one can imagine, baby Lexine is the apple of her mother's eyes and we never tire of the images her mother shares of both of them on her Instagram page.

Here are 8 times Adaeze and her little one completely melted our hearts.

See photos below: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/8-times-adaeze-yobo-and-her-baby-girl-melted-our-hearts-20170803

Bounce News takes a ride with a physically challenged Lagos danfo driver. He shows us how he drives with one leg and talks about his life, challenges and dreams.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4X3SDr6U_N0

How much is a life worth?

Well, to a crowd in Indonesia, it is only worth an amplifier.

An alleged suspect paid the ultimate price after he was accused of stealing.

The head of the local police’s criminal investigations, Rizal Marito, said that locals chased the 30-year-old man after he was seen emerging from a mosque in Bekasi district, near the Indonesian capital, with the amplifier.

“The mosque’s caretaker shouted ‘Thief!’ and people chased him,” he said.

The man was caught about two kilometres from the mosque and beaten, with some in the crowd pouring petrol on the man and setting him alight.

He died on the spot from injuries and severe burns.

Marito denied local media reports that the man was a technician who was taking out the amplifier for repair.

According to the police, the victim’s family will not press charges.

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/man-set-ablaze-for-stealing-amplifier-from-mosque-20170803

A visit to the community around the Obalende bus station that has just been demolished to clear up the drains around the canal.

Lagos is planning to build a mega city and these are the prices being paid to pave way for the development.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qD1VBV17HhA

Ever wonder how some folks always manage to get the best deals when it comes to work?

They nail their reviews, snag the promotion plus all the benefits that come with it.

While some may argue that such people are in the management's "good books", the truth is more often than not, getting ahead in the work place is really just down to how much work you're willing to put in.

Now it is true that the dynamics differ from one organisation to the other, and let's not forget the obnoxious office politics that will always plague every organisation, no matter how small.

But amidst this, there's one universal truth - every employer just wants staff who add value to their organisation. The more value you add, the more indispensable you become, and the easier it becomes to get ahead.

So, how does one work their way to becoming the model employer, thus guaranteeing your rise through the ranks?

These 6 points should nudge you in the right direction.


[b]1. Think like you own the business: [/b]this is one of the biggest issues that plagues the average employee - a lack of sense of ownership and responsibility. Many are just content with getting their salary at the end of the month, and they keep it moving. But if you think of yourself as a co-owner of the business, you'll feel a sense of responsibility when things are going wrong and thus, are more likely to make a difference and distinguish yourself. Here's how.

Let's imagine you're privy to the fact that the company isn't making as much money as it should be. You then begin to rack your head on how you can improve the company's bottom-line; regardless of the fact that sales isn't in your job description. Soon enough, if you match your actions to your thoughts, you'll find a solution or at least, point the relevant person in the right direction. If you play your cards right, your efforts should attract the attention of the management, except they're following you from your village, and place you in good books.

Also it needn't just be with something as major as improving company sales. It could be taking charge of your duties and going over, and beyond in discharging them.

2. Be proactive: closely related to point 1 above, this simply means that you don't have to wait to be told everything. Show some initiative by constantly asking yourself: how can I improve my output? How can I increase the value I'm adding to the company, and more so, how can I contribute my quota to making my company obtain bigger market share? When you make these your mantra, you'll find yourself on the path to success.

3. It's okay to point out your achievements: haven successfully done the above, it's perfectly fine to occasionally highlight your achievements. Now, no one likes a show-off, that could make you an easy target. What we recommend is the occasional tactful email to your line manager, pointing out said accomplishment. We highly recommend emails, rather than word of mouth because emails are documented, in case you need to refer to it in the future; especially when it's time for reviews.


4. Quit complaining: also in tandem with the above, always think of solutions rather than problems. When you dwell on problems, you're consumed with negative energy which can ultimately affect your productivity. While we're not unaware of structural issues that can exist in organisations, it's important to stay focused on your goals. So, rather than get bugged down with office politics, and how your organisation may not recognise your value, busy yourself with how you can solve this problem.

5. Hone your emotional intelligence: [/b]above all, it's important you hone your emotional intelligence down to perfection. All of the above go to waste if you're not vastly honed in this skill.

Simply put, "emotional intelligence is the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one's emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically."

So, how well do you relate with your colleagues? Are you difficult to work with, and are you willing to help out others? Do you know when it's appropriate to be demanding and when it's time to just back down and fight another day?

In the grand scheme of things, all of these could stand against you, despite your best intentions. So it's important that you equally manage your relations with your co-workers and superiors as best as you can.

[b]6. Work smart: this goes without saying. You've got to put in the work, but then it's not enough to work just for the sake of it. What tasks take up most of your time? Are you bugged down with menials things that ultimately won't get you deserved recognition? It's important that you manage your time efficiently so that your daily activities bring you the maximum amount of reward.

Original article: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/bouncecareertalk-how-to-become-your-companys-ceo-in-5-years-20170731

Office romance is most of the time a product of uncontrollable flames in the hearts of two colleagues working in the same office and this means it is not entirely a bad thing.

But the problem is that as honest as they come, they hardly work out. This is because once other colleagues know about that supposedly secret affair, you become the hottest topic for gossips.

Then different persons start to develop that annoying sense of right to know, right to tell, right to be told, right to advise or right to analyse what ordinarily is none of their business. But in spite of the sad tales of office romance ending in a disaster and leaving some people in pain, you can make yours work with these tested rules.

However, you do not need a combination of all the rules at the same time because no two relationships are same and offices also differ in setup and rules.

You just have to try them to know what applies to you.


1. First off, if you are the jealous or possessive type, you should stop reading at this point because office romance is not for you. No matter the setting of your office, you should not be seen being protective of your secret lover, else you will one day have to explain why what she does with other guys in the office matters so much to you.

You must learn to ignore other colleagues flirting with your partner. It’s hard but it is what it is.


2. Create the impression that you are in a relationship outside the office. It is harder to imagine you are cheating on that ‘imaginary’ partner you seem quite fond of but if they know you are not seeing anyone, it is easier to suspect you have “started dating” XYZ.

Just avoid that vivid gist that would make your colleagues demand more details.


3. You cannot be live-in lovers and the reason for this is simple – you can’t eat your cake and have it.

Anything that makes you arrive or leave office or colleagues’ parties together or makes you have your things in his car or makes him the one picking stuff you forgot in the office must be avoided religiously.

In any case, how do you explain a particular colleague knowing about every robbery, power-cut or newsworthy incident in your neighborhood?


4. You cannot defend or side with your partner when there are disputes in the office. Especially when there is no known corporate interest that you are protecting.

Someone like me would ask you what is in it for you? Let them fight their battles ALONE and play the peacemaker only when it is justified.

This rule also includes favoritism and lousy patronage. Let your partner earn the privileges or praises they get.


5. It is also not a bad idea to disagree with your partner once in a while, but the issue must be strictly work related else you make it look like you’re hurting over something else (which they will be interested in unraveling). Even if you have to discuss the issue ahead, it works.

I particularly feel it is brilliant when colleagues do not get the impression that you both have much in common. That way it’s harder to link you romantically.


6. Take this seriously. That thing that guys run into the toilet to quickly do…don’t even think about it! I mean no sex in the office, what if you get caught?

Except you are both just carefree players with some skyscraper-high libidos looking to just have a fling. Otherwise, if this relationship is worth protecting with rules 1 to 5 then breaking this one can ruin everything.


7. We all like to avoid being seen with the office aprokos [/b]but you cannot afford to be in their bad book or you become a target. This is the riskiest of the rules because it can backfire if not well managed.

It is recommended that you join in when colleagues are having GENERAL gossips about your partner but be CAREFUL not to be the one who knows more than everyone else.


[b]8. [/b]An expert says it's inevitable that you're going to give clues about your relationship if you only hang out with each other. Avoid this by never meeting in an office with the door closed, and make sure to sit and mingle with other people at events.

Your monthly team bonding is about the team NOT for you to discuss with only one colleague all through the evening. Share the love so you don’t share the secret.


[b]9. Because you cannot openly display affection in the office or have your intimate conversation, you most likely will do a lot via the phone. So, password your phone(s).

It is probably unethical in many offices for colleagues to get into your computer behind you but if you use Whatsapp web, you can easily be carried away and you never can tell. So, don’t leave your computer also carelessly.


10. Guys, I beg you, don’t get drunk when ‘hanging out with the boys’; and ladies, you do not need that ‘friend like a sister’ in your office.
Remember your right to remain silent, as anything you say can be used against you.


11. Social media can also give you away if you aren’t guided. [/b]You don’t have to like every picture she uploads, you don’t have to tag him in every post if you do not do same with other colleagues.

But if you know you have already succeeded in making him look like just a colleague, then feel free to tag him in posts where he is relevant or react to his posts that are obviously related to you.


[b]12. Above all, you must know from the beginning where the relationship is going. It may seem awkward but it is better to do it because the risks involved are high.
There is this mutual distrust rule I learnt many years ago. It makes me expect less from everyone and anyone and you need it more when dating a colleague.

If it is a fling, be clear about it. You don’t want a heartbreak that will affect your job performance.

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/bouncefeature-12-ways-to-hide-office-romance-20170501

Asides traveling overseas, Lagos is the usual domestic destination for Nigerians in search of greener pastures.

So, if you are one of those JJCs in town, chances are that you need to move around in commercial transportation – danfo, okada or keke marwa.

Added to your problem of not knowing the popular bus stops and landmarks is that the conductor seems to be speaking a language you don’t understand.

How they call Naira notes in Lagos is a major source of confusion. So, lets start with that.

Five Naira [/b]does not have a significantly popular nickname and I guess that is not a surprise; it does not have much value these days.

[b]Faiba - This is the first one and it is the name given to the 10 Naira note. It is highly important because it is also a unit of measurement for other denominations.

So, when next you hear faiba, quickly do your calculations. Continue reading and you will understand better.

Shandy – Since the 20 Naira note was introduced, it had been called Muri because it has the portrait of slain Head of State, General Muritala Mohammed on it and this is not peculiar to Lagos.

But in Lagos and among commercial drivers, conductors and agberos, it is called Shandy.

When next you see a conductor, ask him for the meaning. Thank me later.

White – You probably know the 50 Naira note to be Wazo, and its OK because of the representation of Nigeria’s major tribes (Wazobia) on it but in Lagos, many times these boys call it White.

So, don’t be confused when you hear an agbero yelling at your conductor funmi n white! they aren’t talking about crack! Lol

Ten Faiba – Look up at the name for 10 Naira and this one will make sense immediately.

If faiba is 10 Naira, then 10 faiba is 100 Naira! Simple isn’t it?

Twenty Faiba – The same arithmetic works here. If faiba is 10 Naira, then 20 faiba is 200 Naira!

Figo – The last time I checked, this is the name of a famous Portuguese footballer - Luis Figo. How it became the name for our 500 Naira note is what beats me.

None of the Lagos danfo operators spoken to could explain it either but then, in Lagos, just like its traffic, you may never understand.

In addition, please note this one or you may get a slap from the aggressive ones before you realize your mistake.

One naira is a way of referring to N1,000 and so is two naira for N2,000 all the way up.

Men In Black

Now let’s go to the part that will wow you.

There is more to the 12 months in a calendar year than your birthday or knowing today’s date. For policemen, LASTMA officials and others, it means money.

When you see men of the Police standing on the road collecting what you call bribe, you probably do not know they have codes too.

Well, they do. Since the Naira is an essential part of the duty, they should have their own names for it.

Only the drivers understand their codes and that is probably why you don’t know but Bounce News found out.

January means N1,000, February [/b]is N2,000, [b]March [/b]is N3,000 and so the list goes up to [b]December [/b]which represents N12,000.

When you hear “half a month”, that is 500 Naira.

At this point I say welcome to Lagos.

[b]Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/welcometolagos-funny-naira-nicknames-you-should-know-20170721

Born in Badagry Lagos, Arafat lost one of his legs at the age of 10 in what appears to be a case of polio but he would tell you “enemies of progress” afflicted him with a disease.

Well, that is no more the focus because he has since moved on to make the rest of his life meaningful despite his challenge.

If you ply the Mile12-Ojota-Ojuelegba route regularly by bus, you may have been driven by him but you would never know that the danfo carrying you is being driven by a “crippled” man.

Asked to introduce himself, he tells you proudly, “I am a driver and a sportsman” then you are tempted to look down at his short dangling limb.

How does he do it? Bounce News needed a ride with Arafat to find out how. The story of Josa Arafat is one that validates the saying that impossible is nothing.

He is a man almost everyone knows and it took just a few days to get him to Bounce with us.

From Ojota to Ojuelegba to Costain and back to Ojota; from LASTMA officials to Police, agbero and fellow drivers, they all hailed him as “their man” throughout the exciting and humbling ride.
Arafat drives a bus with a manual gear system. His mastery of the skill shows years of constant practice with his right hand well trained to do most of the job.

With it he controls the gear. He holds the short dangling lower limb like a rod with which he presses the throttle and the brake.

He says: “Nobody taught me driving except God. I did not learn from anyone. It was like God telling me ‘nobody can help you, take this skill and help yourself’.

“I cannot stay at home waiting for someone to come and feed me.”

By the way, Arafat has won some laurels for the Lagos state in powerlifting but complains that his sports career has not been rewarding.

“I won a silver medal for Lagos state in 2012 at the National Sports Festival. Government said they would employ us but they did not give me the job.

Full interview here: [url]http://news.bounce.ng/Content/bounce-exclusive-meet-arafat-the-danfo-driver-with-one-leg-20170404
[/url]


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LzwMEGeQUso

Talented Nigerians in the arts industry - poetry and music - will soon have access to finance. The idea is to convert their uncommon abilities into sources of income
The Nigerian government says it will support talented youths in the arts sector with 300 million Naira start-up loans.

The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, announced the plan at the “Spoken Words Open All White Finale’’, a poetry and music platform held at Onikan, Lagos to encourage talents.

Mohammed highlighted that poetry and music performances show the government is willing these youngsters.

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/talented-get-ready-for-governments-30mln-naira-loan-20170731

Source: [url]http://news.bounce.ng/Content/warning-do-not-use-lagos-ibadan-expressway-today-20170728
[/url]
If you have plans to travel to Ibadan today, July 28, consider using Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway and avoid the Lagos-Ibadan Express way.

Sickening is one way to describe the circumstance that travellers on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway are facing today.

They have spent the time it will take an individual to travel from Lagos to Ibadan but they have not covered more than 200 metres.

It is a lockdown circumstance and travellers are lamenting already, wondering why they are losing man-hours to a traffic jam they are not sure of when it will clear off.

A trailer had overturned around Christ Embassy near the Redeem Christian Church redemption Camp along the road and that trailer has not been removed.

lagos ibadan express way traffic

It is Ogun State and commuters are wondering why the State government has not made effort to remove the trailer since it fell last night.

It is not clear what caused the overturn, but there have been repair works on the road ongoing for months now.

Bounce News Correspondent on the road reports that vehicles are taking an alternative route near the road, which is in a terrible state. It is the area cleared for rail track and it is terrible.

Commuters expect the Ogun State government to come to their aid and not wait for the Federal Government to intervene in the removal of the truck.

The alternative route for persons that want to travel to Ibadan today or out of Lagos is the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway.

The recklessness of truck drivers cannot be ruled out as one of the reasons the vehicles overturn.

Source:[url] http://news.bounce.ng/Content/for-fighting-tinubu-apc-suspends-muiz-banire-20170728[/url]

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended the party’s National Legal Adviser, Muiz Banire, over alleged anti-party activities
Did he try to bite the hand that feeds him?

Banire has been having a running battle with the National leader of the party, Bola Tinubu over the imposition of candidates in last Saturday's local government election in Lagos.

Calls for the suspension and subsequent sack of Banire became heightened in the build-up to the polls.

Mushin APC members had on Tuesday last week stormed the party’s state secretariat and Government House Alausa, Ikeja, demanding for his immediate suspension and sack.

Confirming the development in a statement on Thursday, the acting secretary of the ward, Taofeek Ajani-Balogun, explained that the party finally decided to suspend Banire in a resolution reached at the ward meeting.

He said, “After a critical assessment of individual activities and the performance of the party during the last elections, members of the party in Ward C, Ilasamaja, Mushin unanimously voted for the immediate suspension of Banire from participating in party activities in the Ward and his removal from office as National Legal Adviser.”

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/for-fighting-tinubu-apc-suspends-muiz-banire-20170728

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The Nigeria Football Federation will soon advertise coaching roles for some national teams.

The federation is looking at hiring coaches for the Dream Team, Super Falcons, Flying Eagles, Golden Eaglets, Falconets and Flamingos.

Technical committee chairman, Chris Green said the positions will be published in two national newspapers, while the process will be free and fair.

“At the last meeting of the NFF Technical and Development Committee, a decision was taken to advertise the coaching positions in the U17 men and women National Teams, U20 men and women National Teams, the U23 men’s side (Dream Team) and the Senior Women National Team (Super Falcons). A public notice to that effect has been prepared and will be published in two national newspapers in a matter of days.

“We have stated clearly the eligibility guidelines for the coaches to be appointed into the various National Teams and oral, written and practical interviews will be conducted to select the best. It is not an exercise that would be undertaken in secrecy.”

Samson Siasia was the immediate past coach of the Dream Team. He who won bronze at the 2016 Rio Olympics men’s football event.

Florence Omagbemi served as the last coach of the Super Falcons after they won the 2016 Women’s AFCON in Cameroon.

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/nff-to-advertise-coaching-roles-for-flying-eagles-super-falcons-20170727

[url]Three women have appeared in court after a pastor said they raped him several times when he visited their apartment.[/url]

The victim was said to have been owed money by the attackers and he went to their home to collect it, a magistrates’ court in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, was told.

They invited him into the house, but once he was inside, he said, he was grabbed around the waist and his trousers were pulled down by a second who then groped him.

The women Sandra Ncube, 21, Riamuhetsi Mlauzi, 23, and Mongiwe Mpofu, 25, denied rape, but pleaded guilty to indecent assault.

Full story here: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/3-women-accused-of-raping-pastor-over-debt-20170727

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The Nigerian Senators on Wednesday voted in support of the Local Government Autonomy which is part of the areas up for amendment in the 1999 Constitution.

Another amendment that got the Senate's approval was the immunity in respect of words spoken or written during plenary.

The Senate also voted against devolution of powers, but voted in favour of the amendments that the President must nominate Ministers within 30 days of taking office and attach the portfolios of the Ministers to the Senate when sending for confirmation.

The clause makes it obligatory for the President to deliver a State of the Nation address in a joint session of the National Assembly.

The lawmakers also voted amended the constitution to permit independent candidate in elections. The approval has received Nigerians commendation.

It was the Bill number 14 debated on and it got - Yes: 82 No: 5 and 3 Senators abstained.

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/breaking-senate-approves-autonomy-for-local-governments-20170726

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Reggae legend, Majekodunmi Fasheke, popularly known as Majek Fashek, has been around for a very long time.

Majek, who is set to his celebrate 30 years on stage, said during an interview said Nigeria has some of the most talented human beings in the world.

He pointed out that the development of human capital in the country is being hindered by greedy politicians who are stifling the economy and misusing limited resources.

‘It is only in Nigeria that politicians bury money in coffins, Nigerian politicians are ass*****, God go punish all of them.’

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/god-will-punish-nigerian-politicians-majek-fashek-20170726

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/3-reasons-the-tax-man-needs-to-visit-bobrisky-20170726

[url]Nigeria based male barbie, Bobrisky may have just called the attention of the Federal Inland Revenue Service on himself[/url].

His latest income declaration on Snapchat will raise any tax man’s eyebrow.

He made this revelation while addressing his haters and those wondering how he makes money.

Below are 4 reasons federal and state authorities would like to pay Idris a visit.

1.According to him, he makes $800 (292,000 Naira) daily from sales of his cream which amounts to $24,000 (8.7 million Naira) monthly and $288,000 (105 million Naira) per annum.

2. Bobrisky says he’s coming to Nigeria with a Private Jet - this attracts special fees, special sums are paid by those who fly privately.

3. The sum he declared does not include the ones he makes from events, adverts and promotions.

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Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/photos-nnamdi-kanu-inspects-locally-made-car-20170725

The self-acclaimed leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu has promised to encourage local manufacturers in the eastern part of Nigeria.

Photos have surfaced where Nnamdi Kanu is seen inspecting a locally made car.

The combatant vehicle was manufactured by Ephraim Alex Akwaiwu from Imo state, according to a Facebook user.

Obiwest Utchaychukwu wrote on his Facebook page on Tuesday July 25, 2017, that the Akwaiwu has promised the 2017 model of the car will be specially made for the IPOB leader.

“Nnamdi Kanu Drives A Combatant Car Manufactured By A Biafran.

“The combatant car below was manufactured by Ephraim Alex Akwaiwu from Imo state. He said the 2017 model will be specially made for the Ipob leader.

“IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu was pictured driving and inspecting the car. IPOB leadership also agreed to sponsor and finance such huge and enormous projects across Biafra land,” he wrote.

See the photos below.

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/bounceexclusive-8-reasons-biafra-kingdom-might-not-come-20170627

The push for secession is still ongoing in Nigeria. The call is now being backed by some groups in different regions. Since the civil war ended in 1970; the outcry has never been this loud.
Different regions of Nigeria are making the demand for secession but it has become hotter in the south-east, the only region that has witnessed war for self-determination.

The Nigerian government continues to emphasise that it believes in the unity of the nation.

The President Muhammadu Buhari and the Acting President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, have reiterated their commitment to having a united and stronger Nigeria.

Even past leaders, including Goodluck Jonathan, who is from the south-south, which will stand in the balance if Biafra is actualised, have come out to throw their weight behind the entity called Nigeria.

There are a few reasons this dream may not become a reality, not even by war.

1. Nigeria is the only entity that exists in the UN Charter and Biafra is not recognised.

2. Nigeria is a sovereign state and the international community respects that fact.

3. The Constitution of Nigeria does not allow a referendum. There are no chances of a 2/3 vote in the National Assembly for the words 'referendum for self-determination' to be included in the constitution, considering the number of Igbos in the Assembly as against the other ethnic groups. These other lawmakers will be on the side of 'One Nigeria'.

4. The United States declared support for Nigeria’s unity which is a signal that it only recognises the current Nigerian structure.

5. Within the Igbo nation, the centre is weak and the branches are very strong. The typical Igbo man will not see and Ebonyi man as his brother. In Delta State, the Igbo speaking indigenes do not see themselves as Igbos. “We are Delta-Igbos,” they will tell you.

6. From conversations that Bounce News had with some opinion leaders from the south-east region, there is no concrete agreement on ground as to where the first president of the nation will come from. Would they result to the tried and failed zoning formula?

7. The capital city has not been agreed on. This and number 6 must have been decided to show sign of readiness.

8. The population of the nation - Nigeria - is too large for the world to sit and allow it to slip into another civil war.

Thin Tall Tony misses his creative 'paddy' in the big brother house- Bisola, and he admits it in an exclusive interview with Bounce News
Is Triple T still in love with Bisola even after all that happened in the house and the discoveries outside?

He gave some insight into his "connection" with the #BBNaija runner-up when he visited Bounce News studios in Lagos.

“The whole world kind of like connected with me and Bisola, just like the whole world connected with Efe and Marvis, like the whole world connected with Bassey and Debbie. It’s just unfortunate, the way things went but yeah, if you want me to be honest and plain, yes I do”.

The dancer and choreographer who plans to enter into Nollywood, also revealed that he plans to create a one minute Instagram dance video to help promote the music of former housemates - Soma, Marvis and Efe.

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/bounceexclusive-i-miss-bisola-thin-tall-tony-20170724

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Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/these-nigerian-foods-are-hot-cakes-in-america-20170724

It is either there are so many Nigerians in the United States or Americans are now fed up with their own cuisines.

Regardless of which it is, Nigerian foods and drinks including Star, Gulder, Ovaltine, Peak Milk, Maggi, Milo, Semovita and Honeywell Wheat, are now being consumed in America.

Trust Nigerians, they are already reaping bountifully from the new export business opportunity.

One of them, a seasoned entrepreneur, Stephen Opayemi, told newsmen in New York that Nigerian food products have become so hot in demand because they compete favourably with their foreign counterparts in terms of quality.

He therefore called on the Federal Government to encourage more Nigerians to export food and non-oil products.

Opayemi, who is now the Chief Executive Officer for Kalto International in the U.S., said his company has a result of the rising preference for Nigerian foods, introduced a lot of Nigerian food products into the U.S. markets.

According to him, his company imports over 35 Nigerian brands into the U.S. including the ones mentioned above.
“Nigeria has some of the best natural products that anybody can think of and at the same time, a lot of our packaged goods are made of very good quality,” Opayemi said.

He added that, “There’s a lot of health consciousness globally, especially in the United States, and we see a lot of Nigerian products, because they are made out of natural raw materials.”


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zb3W4kwAcIw

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Source: [url] http://news.bounce.ng/Content/funnybone-calls-daddy-showkey-a-mosquito-20170724[/url]

Comedian, Funnybone has apologized to the 'Area Father' after calling the veteran Ajegunle musician, a mosquito while making jokes at 'Funnybone untamed'
Daddy Showkey felt insulted, even when Funny bone tried to be "funny".

The Galala propagator was unhappy when he heard a joke made by the comedian which was directed at him.

Funnybone, who was performing at his show titled "FunnyBone Untamed" on the 9th of July 2017, told some jokes using recent happenings in the entertainment industry.

In reference to the social media fight between Wizkid and Tekno, Funnybone said "If Tekno na Duck, then wetin be Daddy Showkey, na Mosquito be that!"

Daddy Showkey prepared for a ‘showdown’ with Funny bone on Instagram when he wrote; "someone just sent this to me now, please let me know if this is a joke or insult, tell him to get ready"

https://www.instagram.com/p/BW3ugamgGYF/

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Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/pique-says-neymar-will-remain-a-catalan-20170724

Neymar scored twice to help Barcelona beat Juventus in a pre-season friendly game at the weekend and he celebrated kissing the club's badge
Neymar’s proposed move from Barcelona has been making the headlines since it first broke last week.

The 25-year-old striker is at the centre of frenzied speculation linking him to a world record 222-million-euro ($256.8 million) transfer to Paris Saint-Germain.

But according to teammate Gerard Pique, who posted a Twitter message on the striker's status Sunday, Neymar will stay with Barcelona.

Spanish international defender Pique indicated the Brazilian maestro would continue at Camp Nou by tweeting a photo of Neymar with the caption "He's staying."

The message came hours after Neymar gave Barcelona fans a dazzling reminder of what he brings, the talisman scoring twice as the Spanish giants defeated Juventus 2-1 in a pre-season friendly Saturday in New Jersey.

French newspaper Le Parisien reported on its website late Sunday that the transfer of Neymar to PSG could be made official in the next few days.

And ESPN's website reported, citing an unnamed source, that Neymar had no idea why Pique tweeted the photo and message.

The report also said sources had Neymar wanting to move to the French club and agreeing to terms on a deal for at least four years.

Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde swatted down talk of Neymar departing to France on Friday, dismissing "rumors" while saying the squad wants him to stay for years to come.

"This is a time of rumors. We understand it's how it is," Valverde said. "He is with us right now. One of us. It's a player we love and we want. Not only football-wise, but also for the things he brings to the locker room.

"It's only rumors. There's no need to worry about something we don't know if it's going to happen or not. If it happens in the future, we'll see. But no need to worry about it now.

Visit https://bounce.ng/source/806307247 for more current sports updates.

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/bounceexclusive-3-ways-to-build-a-successful-business-20170721

At every stage of your business, you should be evaluating if the people on the team are ready and capable of going into the next phase – including yourself
Every day all over the world, budding entrepreneurs start businesses.

But more than 90% of these businesses fail in their first year.

But it is still possible to start a business that will succeed if you get the basics right.

At the recent Techplus 2017 conference held in Lagos, Founder and CEO of Pagatech, Tayo Oviosu spoke on how to build a successful business.

From his presentation, Bounce News brings you 3 ways to build a sustainable business.

1. Define The Change You’re Bringing: What are you trying to change? It is not just enough to want to start a business. Even if you have all the resources to succeed, you must ask yourself ‘why’. This will help you to do proper evaluation of your idea, business model and the market you intend to penetrate.

“It is not enough to want to change something, you have to be clear on why you are passionate about that change and be able to tell the story of why,” said Mr Oviosu.

“You must seek to make change happen…if not, stop! You have to be very clear on the change you are trying to make and why?” added Seth Godin, an American entrepreneur.

2. Build A Reliable Team: [/b]There is no business that succeeds without a strong, reliable team. So, if you really want to build a successful business, you need to start from day one to choose people who are productive and willing to learn. Not people with university degrees that cannot apply simple principles.


“Can I enjoy having a beer with this person,” you may consider such a question trivial but it is crucial in deciding who joins your team.

The success of your business depends on it.

According to Oviosu, “In the early days, do not worry about titles but bring on people who will be willing to take on different roles as needed.

He said:“Building a team is a continuous work, involving training, coaching, an developing individuals. At every stage of your business, you should be evaluating if the people on the team are ready and capable of going into the next phase of the business – including yourself.”

[b]3. Seek Investment Partners: There is no gainsaying the fact that you need some level of financing to start the business and remain in it.

Fundraising is a major challenge in Nigeria but investors are members of your team, said Oviosu.

He noted that entrepreneurship is a lonely road and so it is necessary to bring others along from the start of the journey.

He, however, warned that “it is important to get the investor-entrepreneur relationship right” by understanding that your roles complement each other.

Investors, he noted, bring money, corporate governance, connections and guidance, while entrepreneurs bring time, passion and energy.

These elements make the business succeed with significant profit to show.

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This means the major recipe for Nigeria’s beloved pomo delicacy – animal hide and skin – will soon become a scarce commodity
Pomo meat is under threat and the Nigerian government is to blame.

You have heard as they say in some quarters that Nigeria is eating its leather industry.

The government seems to be buying into the argument.

It is taking steps to increase leather production which could be sad news to lovers of the rolled up delicacy.

The Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onu, said this while speaking on the federal government’s plans to make Nigeria a leather hub to drive industrialisation.

Source: http://news.bounce.ng/Content/nigerias-leather-initiative-threatens-pomo-delicacy-20170714

Onu spoke on Thursday in Abuja at the matriculation of trainees and inauguration of Nigerian Institute of Leather Science and Technology (NILEST).

“By doing this, we will also strengthen our capacity to convert our rich agricultural products into viable economic goods and services that we need for both domestic consumption as well as strengthen export earnings.

“This will help in job and wealth creation, help restore national self-reliance and self-confidence, enhance prosperity and boost our economy,” the minister said.

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