Fuel price may fall as petrol vessels berth at port

The pump price of Premium Motor Spirit, popularly called petrol, may be reduced in filling stations operated by independent marketers this week, following the massive imports of PMS by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, oil dealers stated on Saturday.

It was gathered that the recent hike in petrol prices at retail outlets operated by independent marketers was due to the short supply of the commodity, which led to acts of profiteering by both depot owners and filling stations.

But operators in the downstream oil sector confirmed to our correspondent on Saturday night that several cargoes imported by NNPCL had arrived in Nigeria, as some of them were currently discharging at the ports.

“Once the products start hitting filling stations, fuel price will reduce, because the recent high cost was due to supply drop,” the National Public Relations Officer, Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Chief Ukadike Chinedu, told our correspondent.


On Thursday, oil marketers blamed the emergence of queues for petrol at filling stations in Abuja and neighbouring Nasarawa and Niger states on the low supply of PMS by its sole importer – NNPCL.

However, the national oil company refuted the position of marketers, as it argued that the queues in the affected areas were due to a “price war.”

But going by the latest development concerning the imports by NNPCL, operators in the sector stated that the queues would not only disappear but there would be a reduction in price at independent filling stations.


Currently, petrol is mostly sold at between N580 and N613/litre at filling stations operated by NNPCL. Most other marketers dispense the commodity at higher rates, with some selling PMS for as high as N670/litre.


He noted that the inflow of foreign exchange during the Yuletide would not necessarily impact petrol prices, rather the increased imports by NNPCL should warrant a reduction in price.

He said the large PMS imports were confirmed to marketers by NNPCL.

On whether marketers had started receiving the products, Ukadike replied, “By Monday we will start receiving from Port Harcourt and Warri, based on my last discussion with the NNPC management.”

Another major marketer also confirmed the position of IPMAN, as he stated that “when you wet the market with products, there’ll be no room for profiteering.”

Earlier, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPCL, Olufemi Soneye, stated that the position of oil marketers as regards the re-emergence of fuel queues was not true, as he insisted that the oil firm had enough products.

“That is not true. The recent tightness in Abuja is essentially a price war which is typical of any competitive market. Motorists would rather queue at filling stations that offer lower prices than others.

“While NNPC retail is selling at N613/litre in Abuja, other marketers’ prices range from N625-N650/litre,” Soneye said.

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Naira Marley, Sammy Larry released from police custody



The Lagos State Police Command on Friday, November 17, 2023, released controversial singer, Azeez Fashola, aka Naira Marley; and his associate, Balogun Samson, popularly known as Sammy Larry, after the duo met their bail conditions.

This was made known by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin on Friday in a terse statement saying, “Naira Marley and Sammy Larry, having met their bail conditions, have been released.”

Hundeyin, a Superintendent of Police, made this known on Friday afternoon after the artiste and the socialite perfected their bail conditions granted by a Lagos State Magistrates’ Court.

The court, on Monday, 6th of November , had granted both of them bail in the sum of N20m with three responsible sureties.

“As part of the bail conditions, the defendants are to surrender their passports and make weekly appearances at the State Criminal Investigation Department (Panti, Yaba, Lagos),” the court ruled.

Mohbad died on Tuesday, September 12, 2023. in a clash that is still yet to be uncovered


Before his death, the singer had cried out that he was being harassed by his former record label, Marlian Music, owned by Marley.

Labour suspends strike, OPS, stakeholders tackle NLC, TUC, NLC members during a strike

•Labour threatens to resume strike, insists on demands, says suspension temporary

The national executive councils of the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress on Wednesday night suspended their nationwide strike over an alleged assault on the President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero.

The unions said the suspension followed the intervention of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.




However, the organised Private Sector and the maritime operators carpeted the NLC and TUC over the industrial action, stating that it was ill-timed and misconceived.

The OPS comprising critical players in the economy noted that the strike would affect the Federal Government’s ability to meet its yearly revenue target.

Our correspondent gathered that the organised Labour meeting which commenced a few minutes past 7pm lasted for close to one hour during which various affiliates and state chapters reviewed the outcome of the meeting held between the leaders of the organized Labour and the NSA.


The National Deputy President of the TUC, Tommy Etim, explained that the strike was suspended based on the trust the unions had in Ribadu.

He stated, “The NECs of the NLC and the TUC have suspended the strike. We did this based on our trust in the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu who gave us his word. We also saw that he wasn’t playing politics with our demands and he was ready and promised to follow up with everything.”

Asked whether the suspension of the strike was indefinite, Etim said, “It is a temporary suspension. We are going to give them some time after which we will meet and if they fail to meet up, the strike resumes.

“We listened to the NSA and he listened to us. He noted that Ajaero didn’t do anything wrong by going to Imo State. We must commend the NSA and it is because of him that there is a suspension of the strike.”

The labour leaders had earlier on Wednesday met with the NSA who announced the arrest of two suspected involved in the attack in Owerri, Imo State on November 1.

The NSA revealed this during a meeting with labour leaders in Abuja on Wednesday- the second day of the strike.

He also apologised to the organised labour over the attack on the NLC president.

The PUNCH reports that Ajaero, who stormed Owerri to lead a protest over unpaid salaries to government employees in Imo State, was beaten by hoodlums and allegedly detained for hours by the police in the state.

Consequently, the labour movement gave the Federal Government an ultimatum to arrest the perpetrators among other demands, to avoid a strike.

To prevent the labour action, the Federal Government secured a restraining order against the unions at the National Industrial Court but the labour leadership mobilised the workers for the strike which commenced on Tuesday.

NSA begs Labour

In a statement signed by the Head of Strategic Communications in the Office of the NSA, Zakari Mijinyawa, issued after their meeting, the NSA urged the unions to rescind their decisions on the strike.

Ribadu noted that the Federal Government regretted the incident that happened in Imo and condemned it in its entirety, adding that it was against the rule of law and the principles of freedom of association and expression subscribed to by President Bola Tinubu and his administration.

The statement read, “The Office of the National Security Adviser is concerned by the declaration of a nationwide strike by the leadership of the Organised Labour led by the NLC and TUC.


“The NSA is particularly worried about the implications of the strike action on the livelihood of ordinary Nigerians and its potential impact on economic security and other strategic national interests.

“As attested by the NLC leadership, the NSA immediately intervened on learning about the travails of the President of the Nigerian Labour Congress, Comrade Joseph Ajero who was assaulted in Owerri, Imo State.

“The NSA regrets the incident and condemns it in its entirety as it was against the rule of law and the principles of freedom of association and expression subscribed to by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration.

“The Federal Government will never condone such an act. As fallout of the incident, relevant authorities were directed to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the assault and bring to book the culprits. An available update indicates that some arrests have already been made in this regard. The outcome of the investigation will be made public as soon as it is concluded.

“The Federal Government, through the Office of the NSA, therefore, appeals to the labour leadership to call off the current strike action and allow the dialogue process underway to be exhausted.”

Meanwhile, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, has expressed optimism that the industrial action would soon be called off.

Giving an insight into the parley with the NSA, the Deputy President of the TUC, Etim, told The PUNCH the NSA also briefed the leadership of the organized Labour on the steps taken so far in implementing the demands of the labour unions.

He also noted that the union leaders secured the commitment of the NSA, adding that the union leaders were satisfied with the steps taken so far by the government.

Meanwhile, the NLC has listed six demands that must be met before labour unions before it can call off the strike indefinitely.

It listed the six conditions in a post via its official X handle (formerly known as Twitter) on Tuesday.

The NLC said a special adviser to the Imo governor on special duties who allegedly led the attack on the NLC president and other workers in the state must be arrested and prosecuted.

The union also said all police officers as well as thugs involved in the attack on the labour leader should be arrested, prosecuted, and dismissed.

Ruing the costs of the strike on the economy, the OPS noted that the strike was coming at a time when the naira was struggling to stabilise.

On his part, the Deputy-President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Gabriel Idahosa, described the decision of the organised labour to go on strike over an assault on the NLC President as an abuse of power.


According to him, it is self-serving for labour to shut down the national economy merely because of an assault on the president of the labour union.

He said, “It is unfortunate that labour unions in Nigeria have degenerated to the kind of self-seeking impunity that the functionaries of government are always accused of being guilty of.

“Because an individual is assaulted, then the economy of a country is shut down; it doesn’t make sense. It doesn’t matter who the individual is, even if it was the president of the country, he is still an individual. So, labour thinks that because it has the power to go on strike, any reason is sufficient to exercise that power.’’

Exchange rate

A facilitator with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, Dr Ikenna Nwosu, said, “For me, the impact is coming at a very bad time when the exchange rate is trying to find its way back to some level of stability; that is the worst part of it. So, it is coming at that good time when the currency is about stabilising.”

Nwosu added that the strike would affect the government’s ability to meet its yearly revenue target.

He added, “Secondly, it is also going to affect the ability of the government to meet its revenue target. They are losing money, the ports are closed and ships can’t berth to offload their cargoes.’’


The National Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Association of Small-Scale Industrialists, Segun Kuti-George, disclosed that businesses were already feeling the shocks of the strike.

“There is already difficulty in transportation hindering workers from reaching their workplaces. This, in turn, is expected to lead to a decline in productivity, potentially affecting both small and large businesses,’’ he pointed out.

Kuti-George emphasized the need to understand the situation and acknowledge the complexities at play.

The strike, according to him, posed a tough situation that demanded careful consideration and resolution.

The President of the West Africa Specialty Coffee Association, Larry Segun-Lean expressed the uncertainties faced by the union members due to the strike.

While recognising the unions’ right to strike, he questioned the timing, stating that not every situation warrants such an action.

Segun-Lean urged the NLC to consider the broader issues affecting the economy and advocated a strategic approach.


N20bn lost

Two days into the strike, licensed customs agents operating in the nation’s maritime sector, said that the country had lost between N10bn to N20bn following the lockdown of the ports by the Maritime Workers Unions of Nigeria.

One of our correspondents observed that as of Wednesday, access to Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports was restricted as workers were denied entry into the facilities.

Giving an update on the development, the Deputy National President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, Mr Nnadi Ugochukwu said, “The country is losing and the individuals are also losing. I have a customer here who was supposed to take delivery of his vehicles yesterday (Tuesday) but he couldn’t, having to pay demurrage of about N500,000 on a car for two weeks.

“He is paying N30,000 daily. He had paid today (Wednesday) and he can’t take it today so he will still pay for another day tomorrow. So, everybody is losing but I can’t equate how much that is being lost.’’

Also speaking, the Chairman of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents, Tin Can Island Chapter, Abayomi Duyile, said that so far, the economy had lost between N10bn to N20bn in the sector within the two days of the strike.

He said, “The cost for these days now should be in billions. Let’s just say they have lost about N20bn in these few days. You know a day you do not work in our clime, you know the cost implications.


“It is painful when you want to work and all the contractual agreements are disrupted, it is painful. Even manufacturing companies are also affected. The unfortunate thing is that most guys that come to the port for their daily bread can’t feed any longer.”

The Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, Adewale Oyerinde, sued for peace between the labour and the government, pointing at the consequences of the ongoing strike.

“The strike is quite unfortunate, more so at a time when job losses are on the high; business shutdown is becoming a daily occurrence and inflation is riding high.

“It is no gainsaying that the cost of this strike, again, is humongous and cannot be appropriately quantified.”

“We hope that reason will prevail, and the government and labour will get to the discussion table. Organised businesses cannot sit by and watch both parties turn into undertakers of legally established and responsible businesses,” Oyerinde admonished.

Meanwhile, offices in Niger, Bauchi, Rivers, and many other states were still under lock and key on Wednesday as the industrial action entered its second day.

The Niger State Civil Service secretariat which was shut down on Tuesday remained under lock as the security men at the gate continued to turn visitors back.


Workers did not turn up for work and patients were turned back at the public hospitals.

While workers in the public schools observed the strike, private schools carried on with their academic activities.

Banks in the state did not fully observe the strike.

The Niger State Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, Abdul Mohammed, stated, “ASUU is complying with the strike action. We want the Federal Government to be aware that we are not happy with the treatment being meted out on Nigerian workers and they must take urgent steps to address our demands.”

In Bauchi, there was a near total compliance to the strike, The PUNCH reports.

Our correspondent observed that some banks that operated skeletal services on Tuesday, the first day of the strike, complied fully on Wednesday, as they were under lock and key.

Schools were shut just as the Federal High Court, the Jos Electricity Distribution Company, and the Federal and State Secretariats were all shut.


Also, government ministries, departments, and agencies did not open.

Filing stations visited were also closed down. The AYM Shafa Limited filling stations which were opened on Tuesday, were closed down.

In Warri, Delta State, labour activists continued to lay siege to the entrance gates of the Warri Port.

The aggrieved labour activists had padlocked the gates Tuesday preventing vehicular or human traffic into the complex.

Also, public primary and secondary schools in Warri and Effurun remained shut to the pupils and students as labour activists turned back teachers from work for the second day.

However, commercial and social lives in the twin cities continued to bubble as markets and shops were opened to members of the public.

Chelsea Will Not Sign Osimhen In January


Chelsea have reportedly moved away from the idea of making a move for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen in January.

Signing a new attacker is top of the Chelsea wishlist currently, given the lack of cover behind Nicolas Jackson with Armando Broja and Christopher Nkunku both having suffered serious injuries in the past year.

Jackson has had a mixed start to life at Stamford Bridge too, after being dropped recently, but he did reclaim his place and scored a hat-trick away to Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea’s third in their 4-4 draw with Manchester City in recent weeks.

Football London claims that a deal for Osimhen is unlikely to happen during the season, given the fee they would likely need to pay to acquire the player.


The club paid a nine-figure fee to bring Enzo Fernandez to the club last January, but appear reluctant to fork out a similar sum this time around.

Ivan Toney is also on their shortlist of options, and will demand a lower fee, with the Brentford striker likely to leave the club after he returns from his current eight-month suspension for breaches of gambling rules.

However, the report states that Chelsea remain undecided about whether they will enter the market for a new striker in January, or wait until next summer.

That is partly due to the fact that Nkunku is set to return to first-team duty very soon, and the club have high hopes that he can hit the ground running in a blue shirt.

Nkunku scored 58 goals in his final two seasons with RB Leipzig and broke into the notoriously competitive French national side before his injury, but fitness issues have plagued him over the last 12 months.

Broja has also proved a useful option for Mauricio Pochettino after returning from a serious knee injury, and the Albanian won the penalty which clinched a draw against Man City at the weekend.

Should Chelsea opt to bring in either Osimhen or Toney though, it may lead Broja to reevaluate his future at the club, with him already playing potentially third-choice behind Jackson and the soon-returning Nkunku.

There was a big fuss made about Chelsea’s capabilities in attack, after scoring only 13 goals in their opening 10 Premier League games of the season – seven of which came against Luton Town and Burnley.

However, they were eventually able to take advantage of Ange Postecoglou’s ultra-high-risk tactics when down to nine-men in their London derby two weeks ago, while also putting four past the champions.

While Jackson has chipped in with a fair few, new England recruit Cole Palmer has also gotten in on the act, with two goals and an assist in those two matches.

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Poverty unacceptable under my leadership – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu says poverty is not a shameful thing but it is unacceptable in Nigeria under his leadership.

Tinubu spoke on Tuesday at the 55th International Conference, Exhibition and Emerald Anniversary of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria, with the theme, ‘Sustainable HR, Business and National Development.’

He said, “I am reminded of the crucial role that human resources play in shaping the destiny of our nation. Our collective vision must transcend the ordinary, and today, I wish to share with you a vision that centres on transforming Nigeria into a nation of creators and builders, ensuring a prosperous Nigeria for us and future generations to come.

“As I have said repeatedly, poverty is not a shameful thing – but it is an unacceptable thing. Therefore, my vision for the Nigerian workforce is one where every citizen who wishes to be, is gainfully employed and able to take care of themselves and their family. Together, keying into this vision, we will banish poverty.”



The President, who was represented by Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkiru Onyejiocha, noted that in the face of global challenges, his administration was committed to steering Nigeria towards self-reliance and reducing dependency on others.


“We envision an unprecedented level of industrial activity, marked by the establishment of unique industrial hubs tailored to the strengths of each region in our great nation.

“Our commitment to ending poverty is deeply intertwined with our focus on economic growth and job creation. We recognise that sustainable development can only be achieved by fostering an environment where job opportunities abound, ensuring food security, and eradicating poverty,” Tinubu stated.


Commenting on the roles of HR practitioners, Tinubu said it was crucial in moulding, and effectively managing people to become catalysts for economic resurgence in an increasingly competitive and changing world.

On his part, the President and Chairman of Council, CIPM, Olusegun Mojeed, noted that now more than ever, HR was charged with the responsibility of shaping a progressive organisation and nation.

“Sustainable people practice is a strong catalyst for cultural, national, and infrastructural development, among others. Talent supply will play a major role in creating and shaping the conditions in which organisations and nations will operate,” he said.

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Why I snubbed Saudi offer – Osimhen


Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen, has said that the juicy offer from Saudi Arabia would’ve changed his life and revealed why he chose to reject the offer although it was a tough decision for him.

The Nigerian striker was the star of the show in the Campania capital last season during their historic Scudetto success, scoring 26 goals and providing five assists across 32 league games. He stood out as one of the most dangerous centre-forwards in Europe, attracting widespread attention from the biggest clubs in the World including Manchester United and Chelsea.

Osimhen gave his thoughts on the Premier League and which clubs he likes.


“Next season I know you will come to Chelsea man! I tell you, I will be the agent who will broker that deal. I will make sure it happens. We are desperate for someone like you since Drogba left the club.”

To which the 24-year-old responded that he has two clubs he considers moving to in the EPL.

Osimhen hopes to return for Madrid clash
“I don’t have a favourite Premier League club, but I have two shirts, Chelsea and Manchester United. Many of my friends are Chelsea fans, a few Man United. The Premier League is the most popular league for any African player, it’s a great league,” Osimhen said.


Saudi side Al-Hilal launched a serious attempt to sign Osimhen in the summer, ultimately offering €200m to Napoli, but president Aurelio De Laurentiis refused to accept, making it clear that he wasn’t ready to let the star striker leave just yet.

Osimhen admitted the lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia ‘would’ve changed his life’ as he reflected on Al-Hilal’s mega-offer in the summer saying, “What was said is true. I have to be honest, I never thought about leaving last summer because Napoli wanted to keep me, but when the offer came from Saudi Arabia, a huge offer, it was hard to refuse. I spoke to Napoli and decided to stay.

“It was crazy… The more I said no, the more they increased the financial offer. It would have changed my life, they never gave up. But I said, no guys, I’m staying.”

He was asked if he wanted to continue playing in Europe.

“Of course. I had talks in August, it was a huge decision for me to make. I spoke to Napoli, and we decided together to refuse. I didn’t want people to think I wanted to leave. It was a positive decision for my career. As much as you play football for money, there is also so much more to it,” Osimhen said.


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INEC official kidnapped in Bayelsa, result sheets lost in capsized boat

The Independent National Electoral Commission has reported the abduction of one of its officials in the Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

In a statement on Friday, Wilfred Ifogah, head of INEC voters’ registration in the state, said the electoral official was kidnapped while waiting to board a boat at the jetty.

In a statement on its verified X account on Friday night, Wilfred Ifogah, the head of INEC voters’ registration in the state, said the abduction took place as the official was waiting to board a boat at the jetty.

He also revealed that a boat carrying election personnel and materials to southern Ijaw LGA has capsized and result sheets were lost during the incident.


“We wish to confirm that a boat carrying election personnel to registration area 17 (Koluama) in southern Ijaw LGA capsized,” the statement read.

“Fortunately no life was lost as all the election personnel numbering 12 and the boat operator were rescued.

“The total number of registered voters in the affected registration areas is 5,368 and the number of PVCs collected is 5,311.

“INEC is making efforts to ensure the conduct of election in the affected area.

“INEC also reports that its SPO assigned to registration area 06 (Ossioma) in Sagbama LGA was abducted while waiting to board at Amassoma jetty.

“The security agencies have been notified,” the statement concluded.


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PDP, LP kick as Uzodimma, Ododo win, protests in Bayelsa
13th November 2023
uzo n ododo
Gift Habib, Chidiebube Okeoma, Daniels Igoni, Gbenga Odogun, Peter Dada, and Adeyinka Adedipe
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The Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party on Sunday cried foul as Governor Hope Uzodimma, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, was declared the winner of Saturday’s governorship poll in Imo State by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

The electoral body affirmed Uzodimma’s re-election, having won in all the 27 local government areas of the state.

The governor clinched a second term in office after scoring a total of 540, 008 votes, the commission stated.

In Kogi, the candidate of the APC, Usman Ododo, was declared the winner of the election with 446,237 votes.

Announcing the result late Sunday night, the state Returning Officer, Prof Johnson Urama, said Ododo was closely followed by the Social Democratic Party candidate, Muri Ajaka, who scored 259, 052 votes.

Dino Melaye of the PDP garnered 46,362 votes; Leke Bejide of the African Democratic Party, 21,891; and Adejo Okeme of the LP 567.

The total number of registered voters was 1,932,474, and accredited voters numbered 794,500.


The commission said 9,601 votes were rejected out of the 791,890 total votes cast.

In Bayelsa State, the INEC said the results from Brass and Southern Ijaw local government Areas of Bayelsa would be announced on Monday (today).

The Head of Department, Voter Education and Publicity INEC office, Yenagoa, Mr Wilfred Ifogah, announced to state party agents, election observers and journalists on Sunday that the collation of results would continue today.

Announcing Uzodimma’s victory, the Imo State Returning Officer for the election, Prof Abayomi Fasina, who is the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oye, Ekiti State, disclosed that Samuel Anyanwu of the PDP got 71, 503 votes while the Labour Party candidate, Athan Aconu, garnered 64, 081 votes.

The PDP and LP called for a total poll cancellation after the declaration.

They alleged that the security agents connived with INEC staff to allow members of the APC to rig the election.

Addressing journalists at a press conference, Anyanwu, while demanding the nullification of the election, said INEC and the security agents failed in their constitutional responsibility to deliver a credible election to the people of the state.

Instead, he alleged that the security agents protected INEC staff “as the APC members rewrote results.’’

Anyanwu said he and his party, the PDP, would not accept anything other than total cancellation of the poll.



LP candidate

The LP candidate, Achonu, vowed to seek redress at the election tribunal.

Addressing journalists at his Umulomo country home in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of the state on Sunday, he alleged that the election was “marred by irregularities, including vote-buying and physical assaults of LP agents, and thus deserving of outright cancellation.”

He further alleged that voting in many locations was done without the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System accreditation, contrary to the assurances by INEC before the election.


Achonu also alleged compromise on the part of the security personnel, adding that “recorded evidence abound such as that of a police officer who voters beat for attempting to snatch a ballot box.”

He commended the LP supporters for their steadfastness in the face of provocation and assured them that they would get justice at the courts.

He stated, “Our democracy was raped in the full glare of security personnel, whose salaries we pay from our commonwealth.

“Collation was suddenly moved from the ward to LG centres, and only APC agents were allowed to enter, while agents of other parties were locked out.

“And to you, my supporters, thank you for your doggedness and steadfastness; you fought hard, and I am proud of you all.

“I have not lost hope in the judiciary; there are so many men of integrity therein, and we shall reclaim our mandate.”

He condemned the assault and detention of the LP Chairman in the state, Mr Callistus Ihejiagwa, at the state collation centre and called for the immediate arrest of those who manhandled him.

“My party chairman was beaten up at the collation centre, as is evident in a widely circulated video. And instead of arresting those who beat him, the police arrested and detained him.

“Let’s save the drift into anarchy; let’s save our country and her democracy. There was no election yesterday, and we call on the INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmoud Yakubu, to cancel the purported results,“ Achonu said.

Also, the deputy governorship candidate of the LP, Tony Nwulu, said that the security agents allegedly provided security to the INEC staff and APC members to subvert the will of the people of the state.

Speaking to journalists on Saturday night, he claimed that electoral materials had been diverted to all the LG secretariats “where rewriting of the election results were allegedly ongoing.’’

Nwulu claimed, ‘’There was no election in Imo State on Saturday. What happened was the electoral materials’ diversion to the people’s homes and the LGA council headquarters. In all this, the police, army, and DSS provided security to the actors.

“They came with vast sums of money to the polling units for votes buying, but the Imo people rejected them. They now resorted to snatching electoral materials and diverting them to the homes of individuals and the LG headquarters, where they are currently rewriting the results.

“In all these things, the police, army, and DSS are providing security to the APC members and staff of INEC in these disgraceful acts. We have all the records. We are informing Nigerians that there was no election in Imo state on Saturday.

“The position of our party and my principal, Senator Athan Achonu, the governorship candidate of the party in Imo state, is that this sham called election be cancelled outright.”

Uzodimma’s victory

The LP chairman in the state, Callistus Ihejiagwa, said that the process that gave victory to the governor needed to be revised and fraught with electoral irregularities.

He said that from the actual results, Achonu won the election, describing the poll as “a daylight robbery and a rape of democracy.’’

The LP chair alleged that elections didn’t take place in most places in Orsu, Orlu, Ideato North, Okigwe, Oguta, Owerri municipal, “yet INEC in collaboration with APC and security agents wrote the results.’’

He also faulted the returning officer for failing to address his petition before collating the results and returned Uzodimma as the election winner.

Ihejiagwa said, “What happened in Imo state on Saturday was a sham. It was shameful how the security agents provided INEC staff and APC members the protection to rig the election.

“From our records, our candidate, Senator Athan Achonu, won the election. We will challenge Hope Uzodimma’s announcement as the election winner in court. If anybody keeps quiet, the Labour Party and our candidate won’t. We won the election. We will retrieve our mandate in court.”

Basking in the euphoria of his victory, Governor Uzodimma urged his opponents to join him in moving the state forward.

Uzodimma, who spoke in Owerri, the state capital, on Sunday, shortly after being declared the poll’s winner, said that his next four years in office would hugely benefit the state.

The governor expressed gratitude to the state’s people, the security agents and the INEC staff for their roles in ensuring a peaceful election in the state.

He specifically thanked President Bola Tinubu for supporting his re-election bid.

Uzodimma said, “I am humbled and honoured by your overwhelming support in yesterday’s election. Your trust in me to continue leading our dear State is inspiring and deeply appreciated.

“Together, we have achieved a resounding victory, and I am committed to delivering on the promises made during our campaign.

“As we embark on the Next Level of Shared Prosperity, rest assured that your interests will remain at the forefront of my administration.

“I extend a hand to my fellow contenders from other parties, urging them to join me in a united effort to build and uplift our only dear State. In the spirit of inclusivity, we will operate a government that transcends political differences for the benefit of all.’’

Meanwhile, a female youth corps member who served as an ad hoc worker in Mbaitolu LG was reported missing, and the BVAS and results in her possession had not been recovered.

While presenting his result, the local government collation officer, Dr Bolaji Olaleye said the youth corps member did not respond to phone calls, heightening fear that something terrible might have happened to her.

However, The PUNCH called a number given by Olaleye, but a female who answered terminated the call without responding to questions.

Olaleye told The PUNCH, “I don’t know what happened to the female corps member, but we couldn’t locate the BVAS and results sheet in her possession, which led to the cancellation of the election in ward three polling units.”

But the Kogi State chapter of the SDP called for the cancellation of the results in Okene, Okehi, Ogori Magongo, Adavi, and Ajaokuta LGs, as well as in some parts of Lokoja alleging corrupt practices, vote-buying and over-voting.

The party’s collation agent, David Edibu, submitted a petition to the State Returning Officer, Prof. Johnson Urame, who assured him the petition would be reviewed.

Corroborating Edibu, the PDP agent at the collation centre, Abubakar Mahmood, submitted that the incidences of malpractices in the said LGA were alarming.

Similarly, the PDP standard bearer in Kogi State, Dino Melaye, has called on the electoral commission to cancel the off-cycle election in the state.

Melaye, who spoke at a press conference on Sunday in Lokoja, the state capital, alleged that result sheets were manipulated before the commencement of the accreditation of voters on Saturday.

“Yesterday, there was no election in the five local governments of the central senatorial district in Kogi state. In the end, surprisingly, accreditation was done manually, the BVAS was not used,” Melaye said.

However, the APC has called on INEC to disregard calls for the cancellation of the election and should instead protect the integrity of the votes in the state.

The APC Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, said the party’s candidate, Ododo, was already “coasting to a spectacular victory.”

In a statement on Sunday, Morka said the announced and uploaded results so far showed Ododo “maintaining a landslide lead in Kogi West and Central, with a competitive showing in Kogi East.”

APC warns

“We are keenly aware of intense pressure, including violent threats on INEC staff, by agents and supporters of trailing opposition parties aimed at unduly influencing or disrupting ongoing collation of results in the state.

“We urge INEC to stand fast in the discharge of its constitutional duty to deliver free, fair and credible election in the state and ensure that the freely exercised will of the Kogi electorate prevails,’’ the party spokesman stated in a statement.

In Bayelsa, hundreds of PDP supporters staged a protest in Yenagoa, the state capital, on Sunday, demanding that the results of the election conducted in Nembe-Bassambiri, Nembe LG, should not be brought to the collation centre.

The results indicated that the PDP candidate, Governor Douye Diri, had polled 137, 909, the APC candidate, Timipre Sylva, had 73, 503 and LP candidate, Udengs Eradiri, scored 703.

But the PDP supporters stormed the INEC office to protest elections in the APC strongholds, particularly the Nembe LG, where Sylva got 22,248 votes.

But the APC agent at the collation centre in Yenagoa, Dennis Otioto defended the party’s victory, adding Sylva’s agents Ofoni, and Kolokuma/Opokuma were chased away.

The PDP supporters alleged that the election did not take place in Nembe-Bassambiri and that the results from the polling units in the area were concocted.

The protesters marched towards the INEC office on Swali Road but were barred from reaching the office by security agents.

They had converged on the Isaac Boro Peace Park at Ovom on the Mbiama-Yenagoa Road at about 9.30 am before marching towards the gate of the INEC Office along the Swali Market Road.

But as the protesters approached the Swali Road from the Lambert Eradiri Road and moved past the roundabout connecting Mgbi Road, several armed security operatives mounting a checkpoint on the road stopped them from getting close to the junction leading to the INEC office entrance.

The security operatives blocked the road with Armoured Personnel Carriers and several security patrol vans while taking strategic positions around the area.

Speaking in an interview with reporters, the state Commissioner for Education, Gentle Emelah, said they embarked on the demonstration because eligible PDP voters in Nembe-Bassambiri were disenfranchised, and this was unacceptable.

He called on INEC and the State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Obo Effanga, to reject the results from Nembe-Bassambiri, insisting that voting did not occur in the community.

Emelah said, “We are here to tell the world that election is not violence. Election is a serious responsibility. Everyone that is having electoral rights ought to cast his vote.

“But what is happening in Nembe-Bassambiri is not acceptable because you cannot disenfranchise eligible voters and coerce INEC to do your bid. A level playing ground should be provided to every adult of voting age to cast his or her vote.

“We know that there was no election in Nembe-Bassambiri. So, because of that, we are talking to INEC to discard that result. And if at all, let them revisit the Bassambiri issue and ensure that everybody has the right to vote.”

Also speaking, the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Diriyai Dambo, SAN, described the incident in Nembe-Bassambiri as “a rape of democracy.’’

He claimed that the party’s supporters who were travelling to Nembe ahead of the governorship polls on November 10 were allegedly subjected to a life-threatening situation.

Dambo said that balloting was not conducted in Nembe-Bassambiri, particularly in constituencies 2 and 9, and that fake results were written and posted on social media.

Dambo, an indigene of Nembe, said, “If what we are here for is allowed to go on, then there will be a massive rape of democracy. We are here because we were disenfranchised in Nembe-Bassambiri, where I am from. Precisely, on the 10th of November, most of our people, with about 58 buses, left Yenagoa to Nembe with escorts.

“When we arrived, the SWAT Team was blocking the entrance to Nembe with other APC acclaimed youths. They said we should come down for a search. One of our boys, identified as Kile, came down, and they manhandled him. He escaped by the whiskers.

‘’After that, they started threatening us, up to the extent that they threw tear gas at us. They said we could not go in, to the extent that most of them were scared for their lives, so they had to leave.’’

In a worrisome development, some INEC officials have been held hostage in the Brass LG.

In a post on its X handle on Sunday, the INEC called on the police and other security operatives to investigate the situation and facilitate the release of the officials.

The post read, “The unfolding situation in Brass Local Government Area. The Commission is closely watching the situation in Brass LG of Bayelsa State, where our officials are held hostage.

“This is detrimental to credible elections. We call on the security agencies to immediately facilitate their release.”

A man identified as George Sibo reportedly died Sunday afternoon in Twon-Brass, the headquarters of the Brass LG, after he was attacked by a mob believed to be APC supporters.

It was learnt that the deceased, a PDP supporter, was attacked at the governorship election collation centre at the council area headquarters when results from some wards in Constituency 2 were being submitted.

Sibo, popularly called “Kobo-Kobo”, was said to be an indigene of Twon-Brass and an aide to a politician from the local government.

A member of the state House of Assembly representing Brass Constituency 1, Daniel Charles, condemned the gruesome killing of the man.

He urged security agents to arrest and prosecute the perpetrators of the dastardly act immediately.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Asinim Butswat, said he was awaiting the details of the incident from the area commander in Brass LGA.

Billionaire Elumelu Says New CBN Leadership To Boost Naira

Billionaire entrepreneur and business magnate, Tony Elumelu, has expressed confidence that the recent change in leadership at the Central Bank of Nigeria will play a pivotal role in bolstering faith in the nation’s currency.



He expressed this during an interview with Bloomberg TV in New York, Elumelu said, “The reason people are accumulating dollars is not because they need it now; it is because of a lack of confidence.” He went on to express his optimism in the capabilities of the new central bank team, is “very capable” and “will be able to bring confidence”, he said.

Elumelu, who serves as the chairman of United Bank for Africa Plc and is the largest shareholder of Transnational Corp. of Nigeria Plc, the country’s largest conglomerate, noted that there is a palpable sense of anxiety among Nigerians due to uncertainty regarding the future stability of the Naira.



Elumelu concluded by stating, “The missing link has been poor leadership, and I believe that we all know there’s so much private global capital seeking the right investment destination.”

In dollar terms, shares of his companies have experienced significant surges this year, with Transcorp witnessing a more than doubling in value in 2023, while United Bank has registered approximately a 40% increase.



In light of these developments, Tony Elumelu remains hopeful that the new leadership at the Central Bank of Nigeria will contribute to the restoration of confidence in the Naira and stimulate economic growth in the nation.



Transcorp, under Elumelu’s leadership, controls approximately 16% of Nigeria’s electricity generation capacity, operates hotels, and engages in oil exploration.



This strategic positioning allows Elumelu avenues for expansion in sectors that are critical to Africa’s most populous nation.





Olayemi Michael Cardoso officially assumed his responsibilities as the acting governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, albeit pending Senate confirmation, last Friday. Nevertheless, despite this change, the Nigerian Naira has continued to experience a decline in value.



According to data compiled by the Forward Marketing Bureau de Change Ltd., the Naira depreciated to N992/$1 in the unofficial market, marking a substantial decrease from its starting rate of N900 Naira at the beginning of the month.



Moreover, this rate signifies a significant 30% weakening when compared to its official close of 772.98 Naira on the FMDQ trading platform the previous Thursday

FG slams Obi’s comment on supplementary budget
9th November 2023

Peter Obi

By
Goodness Acheje
The Federal Government has slammed the comment of the Labour Party presidential candidate in the February 25 election, Peter Obi, on the recently signed supplementary budget.

The FG decried the comment of Obi that the supplementary budget was insensitive to the citizens, noting that it is a “bold and pragmatic response” to national pressing issues.

Obi had, on Wednesday, via a post on his X handle, lamented that the supplementary budget failed to capture “urgent items of national welfare,” despite being signed by President Bola Tinubu at a “late” period of the year.

The erstwhile Anambra State governor branded the FG’s act as “uncaring” and “insensitive.”


However, in response to the claim, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has said that the budget signed into law on Wednesday by Tinubu, was a reflection of the administration’s “bold and pragmatic response to the pressing and economic challenges Nigeria currently faces.”

This was made known in a statement issued on Thursday by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, a copy which was obtained by our correspondent.


“The broad provisions in the supplementary budget are a reflection of President Tinubu’s strong desire and eagerness to support the vital functions of government, address urgent security needs, and fast-track the country’s recovery process from the economic impact occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy.”

The statement added that the minister urged the “political opposition to be informed and balanced in the exercise of their right to differing opinions and refrain from misrepresentation of facts for political gains,”

He further explained that the supplementary budget was “derived from the active engagement and consultation with relevant stakeholders who ensured that the budgetary provisions aligned with the needs and expectations of Nigerians.”

The minister noted that all items contained in the budget had been “meticulously scrutinised” before its passage into law; a show of Tinubu’s “inclination to accountability and transparency in government expenditure,” to “ensure efficient utilisation of public funds.”

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Presidency, Obi exchange words over Supreme’s Court judgment
7th November 2023

Peter Obi

By
Goodness Acheje
Presidential candidate of Labour Party, Peter Obi, on Monday, slammed the Supreme Court judgment that affirmed President Bola Tinubu’s victory, saying he found the verdict contradictory and disappointing.

But in a swift response, the Presidency slammed Obi, describing him as “a copycat” who “tried, in vain, to gaslight Nigerians with false claims and innuendos.”

Obi, at a press conference in Abuja, on Monday, formally reacted to the October 26 judgment of the Supreme Court, saying he was disappointed that despite the plethora of evidence placed before the apex court, the justices chose to focus on technicality rather than substance, thereby breaching the confidence of Nigerians in the judiciary.

He said, “Setting legal issues aside, the Supreme Court exhibited a disturbing aversion to public opinion just as it abandoned its responsibility as a court of law and policy. It is, therefore, with great dismay I observe that the court’s decision contradicts the overwhelming evidence of election rigging, false claim of a technical glitch, substantial non-compliance with rules set by INEC itself as well as matters of perjury, identity theft, and forgery that have been brought to light in the course of this election matter.


“These were hefty allegations that should not be treated with levity. More appalling, the Supreme Court judgment willfully condoned breaches of the constitution relative to established qualifications and parameters for candidates in presidential elections. With this counter-intuitive judgment, the Supreme Court has transferred a heavy moral burden from the courtrooms to our national conscience. Our young democracy is ultimately the main victim and casualty of the courtroom drama.

“Without equivocation, this judgment amounts to a total breach of the confidence the Nigerian people have in our judiciary. To that extent, it is a show of unreasonable force against the very Nigerian people from whom the power of the Constitution derives. This Supreme Court ruling may represent the state of the law in 2023 but not the present demand for substantive justice.

The judgment mixed principles and precepts. Indeed, the rationale and premise of the Supreme Court judgment, have become clearer in the light of the deep revealing and troubling valedictory remarks by Hon. Justice Musa Dattijo Muhammad, on Friday 27th October 2023.”


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Supplementary budget not addressing pressing national needs, emergencies -Obi
He said with the outcome of the legal battle “going forward, we in the Labour Party and the Obidient Movement are now effectively in the opposition. We are glad that the nation has heard us loud and clear. We shall now expand the confines of our message of hope to the rest of the country. We shall meet the people in the places where they feel pain and answer their needs for hope. At marketplaces, motor parks, town halls, board rooms, and university and college campuses; we all carry and deliver the message of a new Nigeria.”

“As stakeholders and elected Labour Party officials, we shall remain loyal to our manifesto. We will continue to canvas for good governance and focus on issues that promote national interest, unity, and cohesion. We will continue to give primacy to our constitution, the rule of law, and the protection of ordered liberties. We will offer the checks and balances required in a functional democracy and vie robustly in forthcoming elections to elect those who share our vision of a new Nigeria.”

But reacting, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said, “We are at a loss as to how the copy-cat Obi and his faction of Labour Party convinced themselves they won an election in which they came a distant third.

“At the press conference where he tried, in vain, to gaslight Nigerians with false claims and innuendos, Mr. Obi contradicted himself. Here was a beneficiary of judicial pronouncements in the past but now he is castigating the same court because its judgment did not go his way. We expected the Labour Party candidate to know that the Supreme Court or any other court does not give judgment based on public opinion and mob sentiments. Judicial pronouncements are based on evidence, precedents and the rule of law.”

Onanuga said having admitted that the Supreme Court ruling brought an end to litigation “Obi should have congratulated President Tinubu for his victory and pledged his support, in the spirit of statesmanship. Instead, he brought up extraneous matters that he thought the apex court should have considered to declare him the winner.

“Obi’s antecedents as Governor of Anambra for eight years didn’t inspire any confidence as someone capable of running a country like Nigeria. No tangible records of achievement in the state he governed recommended him for the Presidency of Nigeria. If Mr. Peter Obi truly believes in Nigeria, the time to prove it is now when all men and women of goodwill are rallying support for President Tinubu in his determination to lead a new era of prosperity, inclusive governance and economic growth in Nigeria.

“Finally, we welcome Obi and his party to play the role of the opposition and start preparing for another shot at the presidency in 2027. We hope by then he will campaign on issues and not whip up religious and ethnic sentiments as he did in the last campaign. Our admonition to Mr. Peter Obi is to find another worthwhile vocation to engage his time henceforth, having been rejected by the majority of Nigerians who didn’t consider him qualified to lead our country.”

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How Singers Gain Fame: A Guide to Becoming a Celebrity In today's world.

Fame is a highly coveted status that many people aspire to achieve. Whether it's through social media, reality TV, or traditional media outlets, there are many ways to gain fame and become a celebrity. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the key strategies and tactics that can help you achieve your goal of becoming famous.

1.Find Your Niche.The first step to gaining fame is to find your niche. This means identifying what makes you unique and different from everyone else. Whether it's your talent, your personality, or your looks, you need to find something that sets you apart from the crowd. Once you've identified your niche, you can start building your brand around it.

2.Build Your Brand Building your brand is all about creating a strong and consistent image that people can associate with you. This includes everything from your name and logo to your social media profiles and website. You need to create a cohesive and compelling brand that people will remember and want to follow.

3.Use Social: Social media is one of the most powerful tools for gaining fame. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube allow you to reach millions of people with your content. To use social media effectively, you need to create high-quality content that resonates with your audience. This could be anything from funny videos to inspirational quotes to behind-the-scenes glimpses of your life.

4.Collaborate with Others Collaborating with other influencers and celebrities can help you gain exposure and build your following. By working with others in your niche, you can tap into their audience and expand your reach. This could involve guest appearances on their social media channels, collaborations on content, or joint ventures.

5.Be Persistent Gaining fame is not easy, and it takes time and persistence. You need to be willing to put in the work and keep pushing yourself even when things get tough. This means creating content consistently, engaging with your audience, and always looking for new opportunities to grow your brand.In conclusion, gaining fame is a complex and challenging process, but it's not impossible. By finding your niche, building your brand, using social media, collaborating with others, and being persistent, you can increase your chances of becoming a celebrity. So, if you're ready to take the plunge and pursue your dreams of fame, start implementing these strategies today!

Football, undoubtedly the most popular sport globally, is often associated with big-name clubs, passionate fans, and astronomical transfer fees. However, there are a few teams that have managed to break the bank but remain relatively unknown in the footballing world. In this blog, we will explore some of the most expensive yet unpopular football teams, shedding light on their financial investments and the reasons behind their lack of popularity.
1.Paris Saint-Germain (PSG): One might argue that PSG is not an unpopular team, given their recent success and star-studded lineup. However, it is worth mentioning that PSG's rise to prominence is relatively recent. Since Qatar Sports Investments took over the club in 2011, PSG has become one of the wealthiest teams globally, spending exorbitant amounts on transfers like Neymar and Kylian Mbappé. Despite their success, PSG still struggles to gain the same level of recognition as traditional European powerhouses.
2.Manchester City: Manchester City's transformation from a mid-table club to a footballing powerhouse is well-documented. Since being acquired by the Abu Dhabi United Group in 2008, the club has invested heavily in players, infrastructure, and youth development. The club's rise to prominence has been met with success on the field, winning multiple Premier League titles. However, their success has not translated into widespread popularity, especially when compared to their cross-town rivals, Manchester United.
3.AS Monaco: AS Monaco is another team that has experienced significant financial backing, particularly from Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev. The club's investment in young talents like Kylian Mbappé and Thomas Lemar has resulted in impressive performances, including reaching the UEFA Champions League semi-finals in 2017. Despite their success, AS Monaco remains relatively unknown outside of France, lacking the global fan base enjoyed by other top European clubs.
4.Zenit St. Petersburg: Zenit St. Petersburg, based in Russia, is a team that has made substantial investments in recent years. Gazprom, a Russian energy company, has poured significant funds into the club, enabling them to attract top talents from around the world. Despite their financial muscle, Zenit St. Petersburg struggles to gain recognition on the international stage, often overshadowed by more prominent European clubs.
5.Guangzhou Evergrande: Chinese Super League club Guangzhou Evergrande is a prime example of a team that has invested heavily in both domestic and international talent. The club's success in the Chinese league and AFC Champions League has been impressive, yet they remain relatively unknown outside of Asia. Cultural differences, language barriers, and the lack of exposure in global competitions have hindered their popularity on the international stage.Conclusion: While these teams have spent vast sums of money to build competitive squads, their lack of popularity can be attributed to various factors. Cultural differences, limited exposure in international competitions, and the dominance of traditional football powerhouses are some of the reasons why these teams struggle to gain widespread recognition. However, as football continues to evolve, the landscape may change, and these teams might eventually find their place among the most popular clubs in the world.

"Understanding the Dollar to Naira Exchange Rate: Factors and Implications"

The exchange rate between the United States Dollar (USD) and the Nigerian Naira (NGN) is a topic of great interest and importance for individuals, businesses, and the Nigerian economy as a whole. In this blog post, we will explore the dynamics of the dollar to naira exchange rate, the factors influencing it, and the implications it has on various stakeholders.

Market Forces and Foreign Exchange: The dollar to naira exchange rate is primarily determined by market forces of supply and demand in the foreign exchange market. Factors such as trade balances, foreign investments, inflation rates, and geopolitical events can influence the demand and supply of dollars, thereby affecting the exchange rate.

Central Bank Interventions: Central banks, including the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), often intervene in the foreign exchange market to stabilize the exchange rate. Through measures like buying or selling currencies, adjusting interest rates, or implementing capital controls, central banks aim to manage currency fluctuations and maintain stability in the economy.

Economic Factors: Economic indicators such as GDP growth, inflation, interest rates, and fiscal policies can impact the exchange rate. A strong economy with stable fundamentals generally attracts foreign investments, increasing the demand for the local currency and potentially strengthening its value against the dollar.

Oil Prices and External Factors: Nigeria's economy heavily relies on oil exports, and fluctuations in global oil prices can significantly impact the naira's value. Lower oil prices can lead to reduced foreign exchange earnings, putting pressure on the naira's exchange rate. Additionally, external factors like international trade policies, geopolitical tensions, and global economic conditions can influence the exchange rate.

Implications for Individuals and Businesses: The dollar to naira exchange rate has implications for individuals and businesses in various ways. For individuals, it affects the cost of imported goods, travel expenses, and remittances from abroad. Businesses that rely on imports or have foreign exchange exposure must carefully manage currency fluctuations to mitigate risks and ensure profitability.

Investment and Economic Growth: A stable exchange rate is crucial for attracting foreign investments and fostering economic growth. A favorable exchange rate can stimulate exports, boost tourism, and attract foreign direct investment, contributing to job creation and overall economic development.

Government Policies and Reforms: Government policies and reforms aimed at enhancing economic stability, diversifying the economy, and improving the business environment can have a positive impact on the exchange rate. Measures such as promoting non-oil sectors, encouraging exports, and implementing sound monetary and fiscal policies can help maintain a favorable exchange rate.

The dollar to naira exchange rate is influenced by a complex interplay of market forces, economic factors, government policies, and external dynamics. Understanding these factors and their implications is essential for individuals, businesses, and policymakers. While fluctuations in the exchange rate can present challenges, they also create opportunities for strategic planning, risk management, and economic growth. By closely monitoring and adapting to exchange rate dynamics, stakeholders can navigate the currency landscape effectively and make informed decisions.

"Unleashing the Potential: Exploring the Future of Artificial Intelligence"
by Goodness

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly transformed various aspects of our lives, from voice assistants and recommendation systems to autonomous vehicles and medical diagnostics. As we look to the future, the potential of AI seems boundless. In this blog post, we will delve into the exciting possibilities and discuss how AI is poised to revolutionize industries, shape our society, and redefine the way we live and work.

Enhanced Automation: AI will continue to drive automation across industries, streamlining processes, and increasing efficiency. From manufacturing and logistics to customer service and data analysis, AI-powered systems will take on repetitive tasks, allowing humans to focus on more complex and creative endeavors. This will lead to increased productivity and innovation in various sectors.

Personalized Experiences: AI will enable highly personalized experiences in areas such as entertainment, healthcare, and e-commerce. By analyzing vast amounts of data, AI algorithms will better understand individual preferences, enabling tailored recommendations, content, and services. This level of personalization will enhance user satisfaction and create more engaging interactions.

Advancements in Healthcare: AI has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by improving diagnostics, drug discovery, and patient care. Machine learning algorithms can analyze medical data to identify patterns and predict diseases, leading to early detection and more effective treatments. AI-powered robots and virtual assistants can also assist healthcare professionals, enhancing efficiency and patient outcomes.

Smarter Cities: AI will play a crucial role in creating smarter and more sustainable cities. By integrating AI with IoT devices and sensors, cities can optimize energy consumption, manage traffic flow, and enhance public safety. AI-powered systems can analyze data in real-time, enabling proactive decision-making and resource allocation for a more efficient and livable urban environment.

Ethical Considerations: As AI becomes more prevalent, ethical considerations will become increasingly important. Issues such as bias in algorithms, privacy concerns, and job displacement need to be addressed. The future of AI will require a careful balance between innovation and responsible development, ensuring that AI technologies are used ethically and for the benefit of society as a whole.

Human-AI Collaboration: The future of AI is not about replacing humans but rather augmenting human capabilities. AI will work alongside humans, enhancing decision-making, providing insights, and automating routine tasks. This collaboration will empower individuals and organizations to achieve more, leveraging the strengths of both humans and AI.

Continued Research and Development: The field of AI is evolving rapidly, and ongoing research and development will drive its future growth. Advancements in areas such as deep learning, natural language processing, and reinforcement learning will lead to even more sophisticated AI systems. Collaboration between academia, industry, and governments will be crucial in pushing the boundaries of AI technology.

Conclusion: The future of AI holds immense promise and potential. From automation and personalization to advancements in healthcare, smarter cities, and ethical considerations, AI will continue to shape our world in profound ways. As we move forward, it is essential to embrace AI responsibly, ensuring that it is developed and deployed in a manner that benefits humanity and addresses societal challenges. With the right approach, AI has the power to transform industries, improve lives, and unlock new possibilities we have yet to imagine.

Five lacks of nutrient That Can Cause Dark Circles Under Your Eyes
It is critical to visit a specialist in the event that you are stressed over the dark circles underneath your eyes to preclude any fundamental clinical worries.
Cause Dark Circles
Dark Circles Under The Eyes
What Causes Dark Circles
What Nutrient Stops Dark Circles

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Dark Circles Under Your Eyes? It very well may Be A lack of nutrient
Indeed, nutrient lack can cause dark circles. Various nutrients, including Vitamin B12, Vitamin K, Vitamin D, L-ascorbic acid, Vitamin E, and so forth, assist the body with working better. These nutrients are critical for the soundness of your skin. At the point when there is a lack in these nutrients, the skin under the eyes can turn out to be slender and badly crumpled, which can make the basic veins more noticeable. This can prompt the presence of dark circles. Look down to understand what nutrients can cause you dark circles.

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Lack of vitamin B12 And Dark Circles
Dark circles underneath the eyes are one of the indications of vitamin B12 inadequacy. This is so haemoglobin, the protein that transports oxygen in red platelets, can be created, which requires vitamin B12. The skin underneath the eyes might appear to be pale and flimsy when haemoglobin levels are low, which might cause to notice the veins underneath the skin. An absence of vitamin B12 causes a problem known as lack of vitamin B12. The production of red platelets, DNA blend, and nerve capability are only a couple of the crucial body processes that vitamin B12 influences. Likewise Read - Sexual Wellbeing During Menopause: Busting Fantasies On the most proficient method to Keep up with Closeness

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Lack of vitamin K And Dark Circles
Blood coagulating and bone wellbeing are two elements of the supplement vitamin K. Also, it is urgent for keeping up with great skin. Dark circles under the eyes are one of the indications of vitamin K inadequacy. This is on the grounds that the improvement of a protein called prothrombin, which is engaged with blood coagulating, relies upon vitamin K. Absence of vitamin K can make the veins under the eyes more weak and inclined to dying, which can bring about dark circles.

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Lack of vitamin D And Dark Circles
An absence of sufficient vitamin D in the body is known as vitamin D deficiency. An essential supplement called vitamin D is engaged with the improvement of new cells, immunological reaction, and bone wellbeing. Under-eye circles are one of the indications of vitamin D inadequacy. This is because of the way that vitamin D is expected for the blend of collagen, a protein that keeps up with the immovability and versatility of the skin around the eyes. The skin under the eyes might turn out to be meagre and badly crumpled because of an absence of vitamin D, which might make the veins underneath the skin more self-evident. Likewise Read - Sweet And Straightforward 3 Letter Word Names For Child Young lady

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L-ascorbic acid Insufficiency And Dark Circles
An absence of L-ascorbic acid in the body is alluded to as L-ascorbic acid insufficiency. The invulnerable framework, the making of collagen, and wound mending are only a couple of the basic body processes that are helped by the urgent supplement L-ascorbic acid. The presence of dark circles under the eyes is one of the indications of L-ascorbic acid insufficiency. This is so on the grounds that L-ascorbic acid is expected for the blend of the protein collagen, which keeps the skin around the eyes versatile and tight. The skin around the eyes could become diminishing and creased when there is inadequate L-ascorbic acid, which can make the veins underneath the skin more self-evident.

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Lack of vitamin E And Dark Circles
Lack of vitamin E is an uncommon condition wherein the body needs more vitamin E. Vitamin E is a fundamental fixing that upholds the invulnerable framework, cell development, and cell reinforcement guard. Cell reinforcement vitamin E can help with guarding the skin against oxidative pressure welcomed on by free revolutionaries. Free revolutionaries are unsteady synthetic substances that can hurt cells, including skin cells.

Four ways students use ChatGPT



The hallmark of the 21st century is ‘technology.’ It has changed the paradigm of how we reason and approach life. Technological advancement has made communication, health and education better. Although there is an ongoing debate that Artificial Intelligence will disrupt human skills, it is also noteworthy to realise how it enhances students’ learning process. 
 
Chat GPT is a tool, driven by artificial intelligence to have human-like conversations. It means Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer. It was developed as a natural language processing instrument to assist with human tasks. Students are using this interactive tool to make learning tasks easier in the following ways: 


 
 
Research
It is common nowadays to find students using Chat GPT to generate research ideas or to solve puzzles. This artificial intelligence tool is simple and calculative in generating ideas and answers. The ideas obtained are used in formulating research topics. GPT not only serves as an inspiration to students, it also gives them a breakdown of what a particular topic should be or look like. Sometimes, research can be very challenging and frustrating for students when they are stuck on what to incorporate into their study; the ChatGPT AI tool gives a unified direction on what has been documented before and the perspectives that need to be explored. However, it can only be maximised when asked the right questions and supplied with the right information. 



 
Assignment

Sometimes, students find it difficult to meet deadlines concerning their assignments. Hence, they use Chat GPT to know how to approach the assignment in the shortest possible time. The results provided are always gratifying and unique to students, helping them approach their schoolwork from an exceptional perspective. They can answer and come up with exceptional ways of doing the assignment. The Chat is also used to inquire about how the work structure should be, that is, a framework.

ChatGPT is revolutionising how students conduct book reviews and article summaries. When examination is fast approaching, students use the ChatGPT to analyze topics into smaller bits for better comprehension. Students can generate different questions that serve as a practice in enabling them to prepare for exams.
 
Grammatical Error
Students use chatGPT to improve the grammatical construction of their essays. With the right prompt on the goal of the writing, ChatGPT can restructure already-written articles to fit suitable grammatical rules. Additionally, students use ChatGPT to fine-tune their essays to avoid plagiarism. 
So far, the debate about the ethics surrounding the use of AI in academics is still ongoing.

Top 10 Most Expensive Football Trophies in The World 2023

Football competitions at the club and national levels are crowned with trophies to deserving winners. In many other sporting events, awarding trophies to winners is a common practice. Trophies typically come with awards and cash. Even so, the value of the football trophies varies depending on the individual awards’ size, quality, and reputation. 
Below is a list of the top 10 most expensive football trophies in the world

10. The English Premier League Trophy 

Price: $10, 000
With a price tag of $10000, the English Premier League trophy is tenth on the list of the most expensive football trophies in the world. It is one of the most sought trophies in the world.
It is awarded to the winner of the English premier league at the end of the competition.
Only two of the Premier League trophy exist, one for the triumphant team and the other is kept on standby in case there is a change of winner on the last day of the game due to goal difference or other reasons.

9. UEFA Champions League Trophy

Price: $15,000
The UEFA Champions League is a competition organised by the Union of European Football Association for European football clubs.
The prestigious trophy has undergone a series of modifications through the years. The trophy is currently 73.5 centimetres tall and weighs 7.5 kilograms. The recent design has a huge size of handle that looks like the ears of an elephant. 
The UEFA champions league trophy is worth $15,000

8. Bundesliga Meisterschale

Price: $57,102
This trophy was awarded to the winner of the German League, Bundesliga. The trophy is a shield that weighs 11kg, with a Tourmaline weighing 71.98 carats, and the rest is silver and gold 
The trophy is worth about $57,102

7. Seria A Trophy

Price: $66,000
The trophy, also known as Scuddeto, was made for the top-ranked Italian club in the league in 1960. The trophy has a blue sodalite base and some gold rings, which later in total carries a total weight of 8kg with a height of 58cm. The $66,000 trophy assembles 20 Italian teams to lock horns annually.

6. African Cup of Nations Trophy

Price: $150,000
This trophy is the most important and revered in Africa. The trophy unites the continent’s football teams every two years in a colourful football event.
The African Cup of Nations Trophy sits in the sixth spot with a price tag of $150,000

5. Ballon d’Or Trophy

Price: $805,439
The Ballon d’Or is Football’s top individual award, and many of the best players strive to win it. The award has been given to outstanding football players each year since 1956.
Even though the Ballon d’Or’s actual value is unknown, it has been valued at around $805,439 since Cristiano Ronaldo sold one of his for that amount at a charity auction.

4. The FA Cup Trophy 

Price: $1.18 million
The FA Cup is the oldest national football tournament in the world. The trophy has undergone two substantial changes since its inception.
The current FA Cup was established in 2013. It stands 61.5 cm tall and is constructed of 925 sterling silver.
It is still one of the most recognizable football trophies, valued at roughly $1.18 million.

3. UEFA Europa League trophy 

Price: $4.5 million 
Each year, the Europa League trophy is awarded to the champion of Europe’s second-tier club competition. It is mostly made of silver and rests on a yellow marble base.
Europa League is a lower-tier competition contested by clubs that failed to advance from the Champions League or qualify for a fourth-place finish. There are 32 teams in the Champions League group stage, and the third-placed clubs join them in the round of 32. 
The trophy is worth $4.5 million.

2. Copa Libertadores trophy

Price: $8.5 million
In South America, the Copa Libertadores is the top club football tournament. The Copa Libertadores de América champions are awarded the Copa Libertadores trophy yearly. Originally, the trophy could only hold 18 winners’ badges, but it was altered to accommodate more.
Most of the trophy’s top is made of sterling silver. The crest uses silver-coated bronze only for a small figure. 

1. FIFA World Cup trophy

Price: $20 million
The FIFA World Cup trophy is an 18-carat gold trophy awarded to the winners of the FIFA World Cup after every four years. It is the most expensive football competition, with the 2022 FIFA World Cup estimated to cost an incredible $220 billion. 
The trophy’s initial cost is $50,000 but has grown to $20 million as of 2023, making it the most expensive trophy in all sports. The current holders are the Argentina National team.

Living in France: Embracing the Joie de Vivre
Living in France is like stepping into a fairytale. From the charming cobblestone streets of Paris to the picturesque vineyards of Bordeaux, this country offers a unique blend of history, art, and gastronomy. In this blog, we will guide you through the essentials of living in France, helping you navigate everything from finding a place to live to immersing yourself in the local culture.
1. Finding Accommodation: Finding a place to call home in France can be an exciting adventure. Whether you prefer the bustling city life or the tranquility of the countryside, there are various options to suit your taste and budget. We'll explore popular cities and regions, discuss renting vs. buying, and provide tips for navigating the French real estate market.
2. Navigating Daily Life: Once you've settled into your new home, it's time to embrace the French way of life. From understanding the local customs to navigating public transportation, we'll provide practical tips to help you seamlessly integrate into French society. We'll cover topics such as grocery shopping, healthcare, banking, and transportation, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable in your new surroundings.
3. Learning the Language: While it's possible to get by with English in major cities, learning French will greatly enhance your experience of living in France. We'll share resources and strategies to help you master the language, from language schools to language exchange programs. Speaking French will not only facilitate day-to-day interactions but also open doors to forming deeper connections with locals.
4. Exploring French Cuisine: France is renowned for its culinary delights, and living in this country offers the perfect opportunity to indulge in its gastronomic wonders. We'll take you on a virtual tour of French cuisine, from croissants and baguettes to wine and cheese. We'll also provide tips on navigating local markets, finding the best restaurants, and even trying your hand at cooking traditional French dishes.
5. Embracing French Culture: Living in France is not just about the physical surroundings; it's about immersing yourself in the vibrant culture. We'll guide you through the must-visit museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks that showcase France's rich heritage. Additionally, we'll delve into the French passion for fashion, cinema, and literature, offering insights into the cultural fabric that makes this country so unique.
Living in France is a dream come true for many, and with the right knowledge and preparation, you can make the most of your experience. From finding accommodation to embracing the French way of life, this blog has provided you with a comprehensive guide to living in France. So, pack your bags, embrace the joie de vivre, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the land of baguettes and berets!
I hope you find this blog helpful and informative! If you have any further questions or need assistance with anything else, feel free to ask @goodnessacheje@gmail.com. Enjoy your journey in France!

“Affordable and Feature-Packed: The Top 10 Smartphones in Nigeria”
In today's fast-paced world, smartphones have become an essential part of our lives. From communication to entertainment, these pocket-sized devices offer a plethora of features. If you're in Nigeria and looking for a budget-friendly smartphone without compromising on performance, we've got you covered. In this blog post, we'll explore the top ten most affordable smartphones available in Nigeria, ensuring you get the best bang for your buck.
1. Tecno Spark 7
2. Infinix Hot 10
3. Xiaomi Redmi 9A
4. Samsung Galaxy A02s
5. Nokia 2.4
6. Itel P37 Pro
7. Huawei Y6p
8. Oppo A15
9. Gionee M12
10. Vivo Y12s