₦airaland Forum

The Acting Director, Defence Information, Brig.- Gen. Abubakar Rabe says the war against Boko Haram insurgents is over and has been won. Rabe who said this while speaking with the Nation, said the military will now focus on eliminating the remnants of the insurgents in their hideouts

“The war on Boko Haram insurgency is over, I can assure you of that. We have won the war against the terrorists, but from this year, we will concentrate on post-conflict repairs in the Northeast; that is the next chapter in our history.
We will also intensify our mop-up operations against the remnants of the terrorists, we are focusing on eliminating them in their hideouts and we are warning members of the public, especially the communities in the Northeast and other parts, to be wary of fleeing Boko Haram terrorists and report them to security agencies. This is necessary because they are in disarray” he said

http://www.metronaija.com/2017/01/war-against-boko-haram-is-over-we-have.html

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Facebook user, Valentine Onu is about getting married to a lady who was matched to provide help to him on the money doubling scheme.


What MMM has joined together!!!

http://www.metronaija.com/2017/01/man-proposes-to-lady-who-provided-help.html

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said that 2016 was a difficult one because of the bad policies of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

However, the main opposition party believes that with hard work and faith, 2017 may be better.

This was disclosed in a statement on Sunday, January 1, by Prince Dayo Adeyeye, the national publicity secretary of the factional PDP.



While complimenting Nigerians as they embark on the journey into the New Year 2017, the party reminded Nigerians of their previous track records of managing the country’ economy.

The party also charged Nigerians in the New Year to work harder and trust in their capacities to surmount the current economic condition in the Country by the Grace of God.

The statement read: “The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Ahmed Makarfi, CON, on behalf of all organs of the PDP and its family nationwide, compliment Nigerians as we usher in the New Year 2017.

“We charge Nigerians in this New Year to work harder and trust in their capacities to surmount the current economic condition in the Country by the Grace of God. The bad policies of the APC led government no doubt, have occasioned this economic recession with its attendant consequences of extreme hardship, starvation, deprivation, insecurity and rise in ethnic, sectional and political agitations for self-determination.

“The ‘Transformation Agenda’ of the last PDP Administration brought a lot of hope to Nigerians, the African Sub Region and our economy at large. Nigeria economy before handing over to the APC in May 2015 was declared the largest and the fastest growing in Africa (number 1) which is now nowhere near number 30. Why is that? Incompetence it is!”

The statement added: “It is no gainsaying that the PDP had better policies and programmes of reforming Nigeria’s economy to provide better living condition for its citizens well-being, which it did. We hope the government of the day changes its policies of high taxations with almost non-economic activity while providing palliatives in 2017 to reduce the effect of the recession, and the country will be better for it in the coming years.

“Against this backdrop, we again advise the APC led administration in this Year 2017 to urgently employ the services of economic experts to put in place viable policies that will revamp our ailing economy. We are presently in recession because of significant decline in government business in both internal and external spheres. The federal government should increase money supply, cause rise in disposable income (spending) and decrease mindless taxations which have led to high inflation and multiple prices in money market.

“Once again, congratulations and happy New Year Celebrations to all Nigerians. God bless the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

Recall that the APC on Monday, December 26, 2016 acknowledged that there is so much hardship in Nigeria at the moment.

This was disclosed by Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the spokesperson of the ruling party, in an interview with journalists in Ilorin, Kwara state capital.

According to Abdullahi, things are currently difficult in the country, but that doesn’t mean that President Muhammadu Buhari had economically failed the nation.

The APC spokesman said that Buhari is doing his best to address the national challenges.

http://www.metronaija.com/2017/01/pdp-new-year-message-to-nigerians.html

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Omawumi: Thank God for social media, but for Instagram where the babe would always post one or two stuff, her presence would have dwindled considerably.

Waje: And like her bestfriend Omawumi, Waje was almost pushed to the background this year. Waje has been busier on social media than in the studio this year. Yes, fans got to know more about her grown up daughter and her cool dresses which she proudly showed off every now and then.

Chidinma: This year, Chidinma was busier arousing people’s curiosity as to whether she is dating artiste, Flavour or not. It seems that the star is fast fizzling out of the industry.

D’banj: Thank God for his song ‘Emergency’ which was released early in the year, it was a good work and so many people felt D’banj had finally survived the break-up.

Alas, his ‘Focus,’ ‘If no be God,’ ‘Breaking New’ and ‘Gifted’ didn’t make any impact at all. D’banj needs to step up his game in 2017, otherwise his career would land in Emergency Room!

Iyanya: Well, thank God for ‘Krukere,’ nobody would have known Iyanya apart from the fact that he was a sensation at the then Project Fame competition.

His controversial exit from Ubi Franklin’s Triple M Records made more headlines than the release of his following songs, ‘Type of woman,’ ‘Nothing Mega,’ ‘Yoga song,’ ‘Sukumma,’ ‘Why,’ and ‘Heartbeat.’

Wande Coal It seems Wande Coal found his sound late this year with the new song, ‘Iskaba,’ which he released few weeks ago. Before then, nothing much was heard from the young man.

http://www.metronaija.com/2017/01/list-of-stars-that-didnt-shine-in-2016.html

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

President Buhari leads the Guards Brigade Bands at the Regimental dinnerv

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photo-buhari-leads-guards-brigade-band.html

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Suspected gunmen in the early hours of Tuesday shot dead three policemen at Idu Industrial Estate, Karmo, Abuja.

The police officers were on patrol when they were attacked by their assailants.

Details later. See Pictures Below:

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photos-three-policemen-shot-dead-by.html

Wife of Edo State Governor, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, in the spirit of Christmas, visited three specialist hospitals in Benin, offset the medical bills of some patients as she facilitated with others wishing them speedy recovery.

Mrs Obaseki, on Sunday, celebrated with patients, especially children at the Stella Obasanjo Hospital, Central hospital and the University of Benin teaching Hospital, all in Benin respectively.

At the Stella Obasanjo hospital, Benin, she offered to pay the medical bill of an unconscious child as she celebrated Christmas with newly born babies children and patients in the various wards.

In her remarks, Mrs. Obaseki said, “That’s what life is all about, to make ourselves instruments in God’s hands, to be used to bless other human beings.

``Whatever we do, it’s God that is doing it, not human beings. To me, it is a privilege and opportunity to be used by God’s hand. I am very glad to find myself in that position. I thank God for everything,” she said,

The governor’s wife, was also at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital where she commended the management for the commendable hygiene and high sanitary condition of the environment

Mrs. Obaseki said she was delighted to visit the patients and babies on Christmas day, adding that “I am very pleased to be here. I have thoroughly enjoyed myself.

``I have to commend the hospital; this is like being at home. No smell of anything foul or vile or unpleasant.

``It’s highly commendable and for a big hospital as yours, second largest in the country, and you are keeping the standard so high. Please keep it up, and well done, sir.

`` Congratulations on that. “By God’s grace, when next i visit, I want to see the standard improving. You have done well, but there is always room for improvement.

``I will be looking forward to coming here every year and enjoy as I have enjoyed today,’’ she said.

Dr. Isaac Omorogiuwa , the Medical Director of Stella Obasanjo Hospital, while thanking the wife of the Governor for the visit, thanked er for te magnanimity for paying the medical bills of the unconscious patient.

He said, “I want to say on behalf of the management of this hospital that we appreciate your coming. More importantly, her Excellency has just informed me that she would foot the bill of that unconscious child.

``This goes to show your magnanimity and human kindness. We appreciate you.”

At the UBTH, its Chief Medical Director, Prof. Mike Ibadin, who thanked Mrs. Obaseki for attending the Christmas party, said the essence of the event was to share the joyous moment with patients who could not celebrate in their homes.

He said, “What we are doing today, the essence is for us to share the joyous moment with patients in the wards, who for circumstances beyond their control are compelled to do their Christmas in the wards.

``At the ward you have just visited is one of the maternity wards. The hospital is an 860 bedded-ward hospital, the second largest in the country.

``We are happy this is your first official assignment here. So, we wish you well, and we hope and pray that by this time next year, you have occasion to repeat an event like this.”

``The Christmas baby of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital who weighed 2.8kg at birth was born by Mrs. Serah Amadin at 00. 50 in the morning.

At the the Central Hospital, Mrs. Obaseki visited patients, babies and their mothers and shared the joy of Christmas with them with the presentation of gifts to them.

`` Among the babies she visited was the Christmas baby born by Mrs. Anita Okoro, a male delivered at 1.59 am and weighed 3.5 kg at birth.

The Medical Director of the Central Hospital, Benin City Dr. Barry Uwadiae, thanked the wife of the Governor for remembering them at this festive period and expressed gratitude for the gifts she presented to patients, babies and their mothers in the wards.

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photos-gov-obasekis-wife-pays-christmas.html

More at http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photos-from-mr-eazis-life-is-eazi.html

Mr. Eazi held his first ever concert, tagged ‘Life Is Eazi’, in Lagos at the Landmark Event Centre, on Wednesday, December 21, 2016.

The event was filled with Mr. Eazi fans, music lovers and celebrities.

Mr. Eazi was one of the biggest break out artists of 2016 and it showed in his concert with people grooving to his string of hit songs.

The star began the show with a number of opening acts, before bringing on Falz for a performance. Mr Eazi also got on stage and was backed by a live band as he ran through all of his songs. He also had key collaborators Phyno, Reminisce, Mayorkun, and Illbliss come through with performances.

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photos-from-mr-eazis-life-is-eazi.html

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Former President Goodluck Jonathan has sent a special Christmas message to Nigerians.


In the message which was released on Saturday, December 24, Jonathan said, ''The essential message of Christmas is that Christ came to earth to live and die for the purpose of reconciling us to God. Being recipients of such good tidings, should we not appreciate this divine sacrifice by being reconciled with each other during this Yuletide season and beyond?

''My desire for Nigeria and Nigerians this Christmas is that we treasure our common brotherhood knowing that if God did not will it so, we would not have found ourselves as Nigerians.

''To God be the glory, we have survived to this point and I am more than confident that we will go on to thrive in 2017 as we work together to build a Nigeria where anyone can become anything irrespective of his region, religion or tribe.Merry Christmas and a happy New Year from my family and I to you and your family. May God bless Nigeria. GEJ.

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/goodluck-jonathans-christmas-message-to.html

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Gov. Aminu Bello Masari sent a high powered delegation to Borno State to present a donation to support the state government in its efforts towards feeding IDPs and in the areas of rehabilitation and reconstruction of destroyed communities across the State.

The delegation which was led by the Katsina State Commissioner of Sports and Rural Devleopment, Alh. Abdu Abu Dankum was received by Gov. Kashim Shettima on Wednesday at Council Chamber of the Government House, Maiduguri.

The Commissioner conveyed a letter duly signed by the Katsina State Governor stating that he always has Borno State at heart, hence a donation of N20 Million to Borno State Government to alleviate the sufferings of IDPs in the State.

In his response, Gov. Shettima warmly welcomed the delegation to the state and thanked them for the empathy and support to the people of State.

“I wish to extend our profound gratitude to the Government and people of Katsina State for the empathy and support you have to shown our people in the hours of trials and tribulations. Most importantly, by this singular gesture, you have succeeded in cementing the century old relationships between the two empires".

“Incidentally, our relationship goes back to time immemorial, aside the personal relationship between Governor Aminu Bello Masari and I" Shettima said.

Gov. Shettima also took time to appreciate a donation recently made by Ebonyi state government.

“Just last week, the Ebonyi state government sent 600 bags of rice, and 600 tubers of Yam to our people. We are quite glad for what they have done. Ebonyi is not from the north, we share not much commonality with them and they are not from the North. Ebonyi belongs to the PDP. It is state that is 99% Christian, 99% igbo, it is deep in the South Eastern part of the country. But every token of support is deeply appreciated by us because it is only somebody who has the empathy that can really reach out to you. Even a morsel of grain counts a lot".

“Whatever affects Katsina, affects Borno, and what affects Borno invariably affects Katsina. We are not surprised, we are most grateful. It is a support from a brother to a brother. A support from the same people, to their brethren in need in another part of the country”.

Other members of the delegation include Alh. Hamza Mohammed Borodo, Commissioner of Information, Special Adviser to the Katsina State Governor on Political Affairs, Hon. Usman Bala Zango, and the Executive Secretary of the Katsina State Emergency Management Agency, Alh. Aminu Waziri.

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photos-katsina-donates-n20m-to-borno.html

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Mr Eazi has been announced as the winner of the 2016 Headies Next rated category. Eazi currently has collaboration with notable Nigerian stars

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/eazi-wins-next-rated-artiste-at.html

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Nancy Isime interviewing Jazzman Olofin on the headies 2016 red carpet. See more photos below

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photos-jazzman-olofin-at-theheadies2016.html

INEC chairman, Chair Prof. Yakubu Mamhood paid a courtesy visit the IG of Police, Idris over Rivers state Governor Wike audio leak involving INEC officers in Rivers Rerun. See another below

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photos-inec-chairman-prof-yakubu.html

What readily comes to mind when we mention names of top male Nigerian hip hop artistes in Nigeria are the likes of Don Jazzy, Olamide, Davido, among other heavyweights in the music industry, but a look at the rise of other youngsters who have fought hard from being upcoming to being among the top-rated is worth mentioning. They have worked hard all year round to be among the artistes who rocked 2016. They include:

1. Adekunle Gold:
This Lagos State Polytechnic graduate who is a graphics designer came into limelight unexpectedly with the song ‘Sade’ which he claimed to have done because of a girl last year, he got signed into Olamide’s YBNL record label the same year and then released another romantic song, ‘Orente’. The two singles shot him into limelight last year.


But for Adekunle, there was just no reason for complacency. This explains why he further went to release other singles like ‘Pick up’ and ‘Ready’ to mention a few this year. His Urban Afro and pop leaning account for what wormed him into the hearts of many.

Adekunle Gold has proved to be astute with his business as he had surprised his fans with what they had been waiting for, by giving them o n e which he named ‘Gold’. The 15-track album has a bonus track called ‘Sade’. He featured just one female artiste, ‘Simi’, the songstress with whom he reportedly shared a romantic tie before they got into showbiz.

2. Anidugbe Daniel (Kiss Daniel)
Daniel Anidugbe whose stage name is Kiss Daniel became popular with the hit song ‘Woju’ and came up with the remix featuring Tiwa Savage and Davido but one will agree that the remix wasn’t as much accepted as the first outing.


Kiss Daniel went further in dropping singles like ‘Laye’, ‘Good time’, ‘Shoye’ and others – none of which begged to be noticed. 'Kiss' didn’t stop after being signed to G-World Wide Entertainment owned by Emperor Geezy, he came out with most of his musical videos which gained massive acceptance by Nigerians, ‘Mama’, ‘Jombo’, ‘Sin City’ and others still on constant rotation.

Kiss Daniel surprised his fans with a debut album, New Era. The 19-track album featured only his l a b e l mate, Sugar Boy. He’s proud to be the recipient of “Artiste of the Year” award of the Nollywood Golden Europe Awards, in Europe this year amongst many other nominations.

His perceived humility may as well continue to sway emotions in his favour just as more fans across Africa couldn’t but praise him after his outing at the Coke Studio project.

3. Reekado Banks
Reekado is another young artiste that had his songs in the heart of most fun loving Nigerians in 2016. Reekado’s most widely played and accepted song is 'Oluwa Ni' which is one of the songs played in Nigeria this year.

Reekado, who had been signed to the Mavins record label since 2014 and had been pushing towards limelight got his biggest attention with the song, Oluwa Ni.

His made his debut album titled ‘Spotlight’ this year too. The album with 18 songs and three bonuses, truly was a spotlight affair for Banks.

With songs from the album like ‘Katapot’, ‘ Standard ’ , ‘Oluwa Ni’, ‘Problem’, the streets of Lagos like many other bubbling states alike can’t stop buzzing.



Despite the drama between MAVIN and YBNL at the Headies award last year, involving Reekado especially, he still gained a handful of fans and his songs are still one of the songs rocking this year.

4. Ololade Keshinro (Lil Kesh)
Lil Kesh has become a recurring decimal in Nigerian music and there’s no stopping the street rap man. Lil Kesh, though has started his musical career since 2012, but his famous seasons are last year and specifically this year.

Li l Kesh became a household name with a single he released titled ‘Shoki’ last year, he went further to release a lot of singles like ‘Gbese’, ‘ Is it because I love you’, his charm reached Eldorado when he dropped a song which entitled ‘Ibile’.


He got signed into YBNL in 2015 and people noted for him to have the same style with his boss, Olamide- their weapon is the use of the native dialect to rap, though he has been criticized for using lewd lyrics. Lil kesh since last year has been getting a lot of nominations.

He dropped his debut album under YBNL record label titled ‘YAGI’. Lil Kesh left YBNL record label this year and established his and named the label ‘YAGI’, an acronym for ‘Young And Getting It’, even though it brought up a lot of controversies among fans on social media and everywhere showbiz matters. Anyway, Lil Kesh is one of the young artistes who gained their grounds in the music industry and has his songs everywhere on the streets of Nigeria.

5. Folarin Falana (Falz The Bahd Guy)
Falz’s real name is Folarin Falana and he’s the son of Nigerian lawyer and activist, Femi Falana. Falz is a graduate of law who was called to The Bar in 2012, but decided to pursue what he loves which is entertainment.

Falz who shot into limelight with his song “Marry Me”, owns an independent record label which he named “Bahd Guys Records”. Falz is a rapper, actor and a comedian.



His acting prowess got the attention of showbiz pundits and cynics alike when did the MTN commercials and after appearing in Jenifa’s diary. Falz has been reported to call his music style a WAHZAP style. And was also reported to have a dalliance with the popular Nigerian female artiste, Simi, after their several collaboration in songs like ‘Soldier’ and ‘Jamb Question’ and even after the release of the ‘Chemistry’.

6. Augustine Miles Kelechi (Tekno)
Touted as the biggest artist of the year 2016, Tekno’s real name is Augustine Miles Kelechi. Tekno has been on the trail of his musical career for a while and it seems the set time for his luck was last year and this year too. Unarguably primed for fame, Tekno’s phenomenal rise is a case study and a matter on the lips of top industry players.

His energy is incredible and he has been having lots of stage performances, collaborations, features and other musical projects here and there. He first shot was ‘Holiday’ under K-Money Entertainment which featured heavy weight music champion, Davido some years’ back.



Tekno signed a recording deal with Made Men Music (Tripple GM) IN 2015. He then released a single last year titled ‘Duro’ which topped the charts on social media and he immediately released the remix which featured Phyno and Flavour,.other songs from, him with huge acceptance are Sisi and Mama Oyoyo. He released an album entitled, “Dance”.

One of the songs that has gone viral in Nigeria is ‘Pana’. Tekno is been a playful person when one looks at his words on social media which his fans and critics are blasting him for.

An example is when he said women should be allowed to cheat since all men cheat on their women. Another example was when he recently said he is in love with Genevieve. That notwithstanding, Tekno is one of the artistes who appears new and rocking 2016 for us in Nigeria with his songs.

7. Azubuike Chibuzo Nelson (Phyno)
Just in case you wonder why Phyno should make this list, remember how his song, ‘Connect’ almost became an anthem. He’s been around but his presence last year and this year is a testament to how great the guy has become. Phyno’s real name is Azubuike Chibuzo Nelson, he is a rapper, singer and a producer known for his special way of using the Igbo language to rap.


In his production line, he has worked with a lot of big names in the music industry before he decided to make rapping his own trademark. In 2012, he released ‘Ghost Mode’ an album that was a colossal success. Phyno has his luck so big this with his album “No Guts, No Glory”.

8. Damini Ogulu (Burna Boy)
Burna Boy whose real name is Damini Ogulu has been around for a while now, a reggae dance hall singer who is recognised for his way of putting different genres of song together in one piece and achieving success in it.


He first released 'Like to Party' which was welcomed by Nigerians, his other song “Yawa Dey” too was for noting like two years ago and one might wonder what Burna have been doing since then but he hasn’t been too far as he has been doing this or that. Burna Boy kept releasing his album songs bit by bit before finally coming out with an album, On A Spaceship. Burna boy’s music is been rocking parties and club houses this year and he did an album this year which he named ‘Redemption’.

9. Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie (Patoranking)
Patoranking, who bears his real name Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie, was formerly signed with K-Solo’s Igberaga records in 2010. The Alubarika crooner was later signed to Foston Muzik which he released Girlie o under the imprints in 2014 february, he released ‘Iya Bisi’ where he featured Qdot and Kbang. in 2015, patoranking got it big when he released both “Daniella Whine and My Woman, My everything ” .



This year early August, Patoranking blew his horn when he released the much anticipated Album “God Over Everything” which had a lot of faces like that of Wizkid and others. He won the MAMA Awards this year as the Song Of The Year.

10. Korede Bello
This cute face of Mavin is one of the young loved artistes in Nigeria for this year. Though he hasn’t dropped any album but we can say Bello’s songs are on the rise as people are still in love with his music and his song is on the playlist for 2016. But his magic is in that face of his though some claims his charming winks had failed in his videos.

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/10-young-male-nigerian-hip-hop-artistes.html

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Popular American rapper Snoop Dogg commented on a video from the recently concluded Otisese Carnival which held at Ile-Ife, Osun State from the 5th – 7th of December, 2016.

The 45-year-old rapper took to his Instagram page and posted the video with the caption “Mood” accompanying it.
A few stuntmen from Ile-Ife can be seen in the video performing some daring motorcycle stunts while surrounded by several cameramen and an enthralled crowd of young men and women.

One of the stuntmen in another perilous stunt, stood on his bike whilst on motion; sending the crowd into an instant frenzy as they bellowed with glee.

The post has since garnered over nine hundred thousand views on Snoop Dogg’s page with over three thousand comments. Fans of the rapper can be seen commending the stuntmen in the comments section – one fan wrote “Nigerians always got something for the people!”, another wrote; “He doesn’t even need biking boots!”

The stunts were performed during the carnival parade in which thousands of attendees participated in.

Put together by Ooni Adeyeye Ogunwusi in collaboration with Achievas Entertainment and Mainstreet Promotions; the carnival was held to celebrate the Ooni’s meritorious reign since his ascendant to the throne. The carnival marked its maiden edition and witnessed attendance from some of the world’s most extolled personalities, socialites and A-list celebrities including Solidstar, Burna Boy, Dammy Krane, Small Doctor, Viktoh, Naomi Mac, CDQ and many more.

As described by Ooni himself; one of the purposes of Otisese Carnival is to accentuate to the world; the rich cultural background of Ile-Ife and Nigeria at large – it’s safe to say this has duly been achieved for it caught the attention of one of the world’s most celebrated music icons; Snoop Dogg.



Instagram to Snoop Dogg's Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/BOKZaJqj17g/

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photos-snoop-dogg-reacts-to-ooni-of.html

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Suspect who beheaded DSP Alkali Mohammed led police to Uju Forest where his orderly, Sgt Peter Uchi was buried in a shallow grave. Police also recovered the patrol vehicle snatched from the late DSP.

Alkali, 48, was beheaded along with his orderly by hoodlums at Uju community near Omoku in Ogba/Edema/Ndoni council area, during the rerun election in Rivers State.

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photos-dsp-alkalis-killer-leads-police.html

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Lol, sometimes you just feel hot. see more photos below…


http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/skales-photos-show-kaduna-perform.html

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Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Sunday hailed tax payers in the State for performing their civic obligations faithfully, saying the State recorded more Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in 2016 than what was recorded in 2015 despite economic recession in the country.

As at December 16, 2016 the State had raked in N287billion IGR for the year under review as against N268.2billion generated in 2015.

Speaking at a special evening of music and camaraderie held at the Lagos House, Ikeja, to usher in the Yuletide season, Governor Ambode said the taxes paid by the people have been judiciously utilized to upgrade infrastructures and provide various services, just as he said that Lagosians deserved to be appreciated for cooperating with government in that regard.

Speaking on the significance of the event which featured performances by array of evergreen musicians and was attended by top political leaders, captains of industries, media executives, professionals in various fields, members of the diplomatic corps, among others, Governor Ambode said the State Government was greatly appreciative of the contributions of the people to the growth of the State in the year under review, adding that the event was principally to appreciate them.

He said: “You wonder what it is that we are doing? We said it is an evening with the Governor but the truth is I just set this up to appreciate all of you and to say a big thank you. Yes, people have been saying that Lagos is working but Lagos is only working because of the people who are seated here.

“The tax payers are the ones giving us the little energy that we have and even though when they say Nigeria is in recession, but somehow Lagos has been able to do it and it is because people are paying their taxes.

“The truth is that the people have been carrying out their civic obligations and somehow we have been returning those obligations with the services that we have provided and you found out that this year; we have actually made more IGR than last year under a recession.

“So, somehow, we need to appreciate all the people that have made this to happen and then I look at the way I could use Arts, Entertainment, Tourism and Hospitality not only to promote the excellence that Lagos has always been known for but to provide another sector of revenue for Lagos State and I felt one of the ways to go about that was to invite our old celebrities that we seem to have forgotten and spend an evening with them,” Governor Ambode said.


The event was attended by top leaders including National Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; Governor of State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Idiat Oluranti Adebule; Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; former Governors of Osun State, Chief Bisi Akande and Senator Isiaka Adeleke; former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke; Majority Leader of House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila; Senator representing Lagos West at the Senate and his predecessor, Solomon Adeola Olamilekan and Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon respectively; Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa; Managing Director of Access Bank, Mr. Herbert Wigwe; South West APC Women Leader, Chief Kemi Nelson; Iyalode of Lagos, Alhaja Binta Tinubu, among others.

Some of the legendary musicians that performed at the event include Evangelist Ebenezer Obey, Sir Victor Uwaifo, Sir Shina Peters, Lagbaja, Queen Salawa Abeni and Adewale Ayuba.



SIGNED
HABIB ARUNA
CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY
DECEMBER 19, 2016

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/despite-recession-lagos-generated-more.html

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President Muhammadu Buhari felicitates with the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki on the occasion of his 54th birthday anniversary on December 19, 2016.

In a goodwill message to the celebrant, the President describes the Senate President as "one of the most influential politicians of our time who has made tremendous impact on the country."

President Buhari notes that Senator Saraki has successfully kept the memory of his late father alive by identifying with the grassroots in his home state.

While wishing the Senate President many more prosperous years ahead, the President calls for closer cooperation between the executive and the legislature to ensure the smooth implementation of government policies and programmes.

According to President Buhari, despite the principle of separation of powers, both arms of government should be united in the promotion of the common good of the people.

He notes that whatever differences that may occasionally arise between the two branches of government should not be allowed to compromise their common goals of promoting the greater progress and development of Nigeria.

GARBA SHEHU
Senior Special Assistant to the President
(Media & Publicity)
December 19, 2016

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/buhari-congratulates-saraki-on-his-54th.html

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The One Last Time party will be the last Heineken activity to hold at the Heineken House Lagos.


Premium beer brand, Heineken, on Saturday, December 17, hosted media personalities, celebrities and influencers to a party which marked the end of an era at the Heineken House Lagos.

The party, which was hosted by On Air Personality, Do2tun, was attended by several notable personalities such as: Bovi, Dare-Art-Alade, Toke Makinwa, Kelechi Amadi Obi, Uti Nwachukwu, Uche Nnaji, Ayo Van Elma, Bolanle Olukanni, Vimbai Mutinhiri, Tee-Y Mix, Efe Tommy, Ozzy Agu, Tosin Ajibade, and others.

A-list artistes: Tiwa Savage, Falz and Olamide also performed several of their hit songs at the exclusive party.

The One Last Time party will be the last Heineken activity to hold at the Heineken House Lagos. The House, which over the years was home to Africa’s first Champion Planet and the venue for UCL matches, will be shutting down this year as Heineken will be opening up several pop experience centers across Nigeria.

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photos-tiwa-savage-olamide-falz-others.html

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Imo State Governor, Rochas Okorocha, on Wednesday, hosted a cross section of journalists in the state.

This was made known in the pictures shared on the Facebook page of EMedia IMSG.

Okorocha who held crucial talk with the media practitioners lauded their change of attitude.

The Governor said he is impressed with the state’s journalists for their support and objectivity in recent time, describing their renewed posture as commendable.

Other dignitaries present at the media parley include the state’s Deputy Governor, Prince Eze Madumere, Eze Imo-Eze Samuel Photo, SGI, Sir George Etche, PS, Paschal Obi, state commissioner for information, Engr.Obinna Nshirim and Nuj chairman, Mr Innocent Igwe.

The Governor during the meeting also disclosed that he has given approval to pay the backlog accruing from the over 27 years of pension arrears owed the state’s pensioners.

See photos below:

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photos-governor-okorocha-hosts.html

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President Buhari Presentation of 2017 National Budget to a joint session of the National Assembly in Abuja.

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/more-photos-as-buhari-presents-2017.html

Today, President Muhammadu Buhari presented the 2017 Draft Appropriation Bill to a joint session of the National Assembly. Please find below my speech

Protocol:

1. It is my pleasure on behalf of my Distinguished and Honourable colleagues to warmly welcome you Mr. President and your entourage to this joint session of the National Assembly.

2. Mr. President, while we may have struggled with key aspects of our budget process in the past, I am happy to note that we have made some important progress.

To start with, we are seeing the budget presentation coming slightly earlier this year. Though, we hope tosee an even greater improvement on this in the coming year. But more importantly however, is that so far this year’s budget process has benefitted from greater cooperation and consultations between the National Assembly and the Executive.

3. Mr. President, I wish to note that the National Assembly recognizes however that the problem with our budget and budgeting process goes far deeperthan the relative progress we have made. This is why in August this year, I inaugurated a joint Executive/Legislative committee and a technical committee to review our budget systems and identify ways we can make them more transparent, more participatory, more result oriented and therefore more effective.

The committee has since submitted its report and the National Assembly is already started the process of implementing the recommendations.

4. Already, we have tried to bring the key highlights of the report into effect within the 2016 framework. These include:
• pre-budget consultation and engagement,
• greater information sharing and recording,
• Public hearing on the budget bill
• Drafting of an Organic Budget Bill
• Amendment of the Public Procurement Act

5. Our hope is that the remainder of the recommendations of this report will be implemented within the 2017 budget year with the passage of the Organic Budget Law.

The Organic Budget Law will provide the legal framework for regulating the procedures that budget preparation, approval, implementation and even accounting must follow. It will bring the budget and national planning regime within a clearly defined framework, thereby ensuring greater predictability, transparency and efficiency.

6. When the current National Assembly introduced the Civil Society Public Hearing on the Budget initiative, the idea was to open up the budgeting space by incorporating the Civil Society into the budget process, thereby ensuring greater transparency and accountability. We are proud to say that this engagement has come to stay as a crucial part of our budget approval process.

7. Mr. President, distinguished colleagues, honourablemembers, you would recall when the National Bureau of Statistics NBS came out with the numbers to confirm that the Nigerian economy has slumped into recession, the National Assembly rose with one voice. Through a joint resolution, we recommended that you make a “state of the nation” address on the plan of government to get us out of recession and have 20 important Executive actions that in our view needed to be taken to get the economy back on track. The National Assembly on its part listed and prioritized 11 economic reform bills for passage. We intend to get these bills ready alongside the 2017 Appropriation bill. We believe that the core elementsof these bills will aid the Executive in mobilizing the required private capital into the general economy, but especially the infrastructure market.

8. In the thinking of the 8th National Assembly, our country can no longer rely on the public sector alone to spend us out of recession. It is therefore critical that we mainstream private sector business and investment in the economy. To achieve this, we must make it much easier and efficient for people to invest and do business in our country.

9. Further to this, we are also aware that if we must attract private investments to play a central role in our economic recovery efforts, must make deliberate efforts to market Nigeria as an attractive brand through a very robust and highly coordinated process of engagements. This effort must necessarily start with injecting confidence in the market through clarity and consistency of policies. We must speak the right language and show that we are open to and ready for legitimate business.

10. I wish to reassure Mr. President that the National Assembly would continue to seek opportunities to deepen this relationship because we are convinced it is the only by working closely together that our country can make the progress that we all desire.

11. The overarching purpose of a budget is essentially to ease the economic pressure on our people in general and the poor most especially. The 2017 budget assumes even a greater significance, particularly in this time of recession. Mr. President, the feedback we get from visits to our various constituencies is that there is hardship in the land. We can see it and we can feel it. This situation therefore commands all of us as government to a greater sense of urgency. We cannot work magic, but we must continue to work the clock.

Our people must see that the singular pre-occupation of government is the search for solution to the current economic hardship; and the commitment to ease their burden. They don’t want to know what political parties we belong, what language we speak or how we worship God. They have trusted their fates into our hands, and they need us now more than ever, to justify the trust that they have reposed on us. The people of Nigeria will pardon us if we do some things wrong. But they will not forgive us if we do nothing. And that is why, Mr. President the two chambers have taken a position whatever may be our differences, or opinions on issues of the economy we will all work with one common purpose for this reason.

12. It is in times like this, when we are challenged from all sides that we need to develop new relationships and cultivate more friends. No one can clap with one hand and expect to be heard. This is the time when compromise, engagement is the tool necessary for successful collaboration and cooperation.

13. This is why I encouraged the Executive to continue with its engagement plans across all sections and stakeholders in the country particularly with our brothers in the Niger Delta and all parts of the country where instability is impacting on our collective economic and security aspirations.

14. Mr. President, you will recall in 2015, , I made a clarion call while receiving Your Excellency’s budget presentation for that year that the 2016 budget needed to be bold and pragmatic to drive local production and promote made-in Nigeria goods.

15. Today, permit me Your Excellency to reiterate this call. The only way we can cut down on our foreign exchange needs, create jobs and stimulate entrepreneurship in the country is to promote local manufacturing and investments.

16. This is why the National Assembly injected the made-in-Nigeria amendment into the Public Procurement Act. We are expectant that with your leadership, Mr. President, we will achieve even much more in this area. It is the hope of the National Assembly that the 2017 budget will continue to proactively pursue this policy objective.

17. Mr. President, though we are confident that we are receiving from you a very well-articulated budget proposal, it is worthy to point out that the best produced budget from the executive at all times still remains a proposal according to our constitution which the National Assembly will work assiduously on.

On behalf of the National Assembly, we commit to work on the 2017 budget, conscious of the responsibility that the current economic situation imposes on us and driven by the urgency to alleviate the suffering of our people and also bearing in mind your aspiration and vision for our people. We assure you Mr. President and all Nigerians that not even a single minute would be wasted on our side in the course of getting this budget approved.

18. With these few words, I hereby invite Your Excellency to deliver your speech and lay the 2016 budget proposals for the consideration of the National Assembly in accordance with Section 81 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.

19. I thank you and extend the season’s greetings to all.

PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/sarakis-speech-as-buhari-presents-2017.html

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The Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola, SAN has drawn the attention of members of the public to the antics of hackers, who compromised his twitter account @tundefashola .

According to a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Communications, Mr Hakeem Bello on Tuesday, the twitter account must have been compromised late Sunday, as members of the public, who follow the Minister, started calling to draw attention to the gibberish tweets in the early hours of Monday.

The account has been recovered and safeguarded to prevent recurrence but people are alerted to be on the lookout for scammers who may want to use the Minister’s name to dupe unsuspecting members of the public.It would be recalled that Fashola had also severally dissociated himself from the antics of facebook scammers, and other unscrupulous persons who use his photographs and ascribe fictitious statements to him on fake Facebook accounts aimed at defrauding innocent people.

While advising members of the public to always clarify with the appropriate agencies of government at all levels before engaging in any dealings with people purportedly working for them, the statement also urged people to report anyone making suspicious monetary or other demands to the law enforcement agencies.

SIGNED:

HAKEEM BELLO

SPECIAL ADVISER,

COMMUNICATIONS

TO THE HON. MINISTER

DECEMBER 13, 2016

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/fasholas-twitter-account-hacked.html

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Towards Affordable Housing for Resttlement of IDPs in the North – East: Governor Kashim Shettima attends crucial meeting hosted by Ministers of Power, Works, and Housing in Abuja

Governor Kashim Shettima was at the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing at the instance of the Minister, Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN, and Minister of State, Mustapha Baba Shehuri where a meeting was held with estate developers preparatory to an intervention by the Federation Government in the construction of low cost houses in communities destroyed by the Boko Haram insurgents in order to fast-track the return of Internally displaced persons who are willing to be resettled in safe places across the North-East.


While Governor Kashim Shettima personally attended the meeting on Tuesday in Abuja, the Governors of Adamawa and Yobe States were represented.


Governor Shettima took advantage of the meeting and made a video presentation highlighting destructions inflicted on communities across Borno State. The Governor recalled that based on the Post Insurgency Recovery and Peace Building Assessment Report jointly authored by the State Government, the Presidency, the World Bank, the European Union, Borno suffered loses accounting to 6.7 billion dollars.


He detailed the destructions of 956,453 private houses; about 30 percent of total houses in Borno State were destroyed across the 27 local government areas. 726 power substations and distribution lines, 5,335 classrooms and other school buildings, in addition to 665 municipal buildings comprising ministries and LGA buildings, prisons, police stations and electric offices were destroyed.



a After his presentation which also showed the nature of ongoing reconstruction works in Borno State in the area of housing, Governor Shettima alongside the Ministers and representatives of the Governors of Adamawa and Yobe States held discussions with developers from Urban Shelter, CITEC and Lafarge after the companies made different presentations showing designs and house types they are proposing for the intervention.


Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola said while he could attest to the capacity of all the developers, he would want the Governors of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States to meet and arrive at the most suitable model of houses to be built after which the project will be taken to the next stage of sourcing funds to commence implementation.

Mr Fashola paid tribute to Governor Kashim Shettima for always paying personal attention to the needs of his people describing him as a gift to Borno State who came at a time his wisdom and commitment was seriously needed at a time of turmoil.


Meanwhile, Governor Shettima promised to meet Governors of Adamawa and Yobe States within the week in Abuja to discuss and adopt the house model desired by the three States to quickly revert to the Minister. Governor Shettima thanked Mr Fashola for his compassion and commended him for his unique leadership qualities since his days as Governor of Lagos State.

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photos-gov-shettima-visits-fashola.html

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

It's undeniable that controversy and popularity go hand in hand.
Something as harmless as a picture shared on social media could become so controversial and talked about for months to come.

It's been undeniably a tough 12 months for the celebrities on this list. Below are our most controversial people of 2016:

1. Toyin Aimakhu
Toyin Aimakhu with her former lover Seun Egbegbe




For Nigerian actress Toyin Aimakhu it started with her marriage scandal with estranged husband, Adeniyi Johnson.

She accused him of constantly cheating with her colleagues but it didn’t take her a month before she got involved with Ebony boss, Seun Egbegbe.

Their breakup was even messier than her marital drama. Seun reportedly seized her phones at a movie location and was accused of kidnapping her too. The two later engaged in a war of words on social media and in several interviews.

Actress Toyin Aimakhu with Ahmed Mayowa Shukurat


Let's also not forget the late Mayowa Ahmed fund raising saga.

Moved by late ovarian cancer patient, Ahmed Mayowa Shukurat's story, actress Toyin Aimakhu visited Mayowa and helped solicit funds on her behalf.

When reports emerged suggesting that the campaign was orchestrated by Ahmed Mayowa Shukurat's family to deceive Nigerians, Toyin Aimakhu stormed LUTH with police officers and that lead to another lengthy social media onslaught.


2. Kemi Olunloyo
Kemi Olunloyo has come out hard in Linda Ikeji




Mother of all controversies. Anything renowned media personality, Kemi Olunloyo speaks or tweets about automatically becomes controversial.

This year alone saw Olunloyo in the limelight more times than normal. From calling Jide Kosoko a ritualist who killed his wife, Henrietta Kosoko, to fat shaming Eniola Badmus and trolling Dayo Amusa, Olunloyo was a hit in the controversial department this year.


3. Freeze
Daddy Freeze




Always one to speak his mind, Freeze has been in the news for different controversies this year alone.

He was rumoured to have been sacked by the management of Cool FM following his public feud with Basketmouth which he tagged malicious.

The media personality has since been hogging the headlines with his unfiltered comments on politics, religion, love and marriage.

He also owns a blog where he posts his opinions on the burning topic of the day and is commonly known as a social critic.


4. Toke Makinwa




Thanks to her marital issues being made public and the occasional rambling on YouTube, Toke Makinwa almost snatched the controversial spotlight from Kemi Olunloyo.

This year alone saw the TV host and Vlogger trend for several reasons.

First, it started with her misconstrued advice to single young ladies, then her releasing a tell-all book, “On Becoming”, where she talks about getting a sexually transmitted disease from her husband, her husband’s mistress and her failed marriage.


5. Emeka Ike
Emeka, Emma Ike and daughter



2016 was undeniably the year of controversial Emeka Ike.

He charged the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) to court, dragged Ibinabo Fiberesima on social media and was involved in a marital drama with his estranged wife.


6. Davido
Davido and Sophie Momodu, his baby mama




Davido and his baby mama, Sophia Momodu, owned this year with their baby drama.

The two constantly threw shots at each other on social media even dragging Ovation publisher, Dele Momodu, into the mess.

Davido was delayed from going to Dubai with his daughter at the airport after Dele Momodu called child services and customs. This led to a full-on media war and onslaught.

The singer even went ahead to release a song calling Dele Momodu his “boy”.


7. Wizkid



And then Wizkid decided to bless fans with his trolling of popular blogger, Linda Ikeji.

The beef between the two started when Linda Ikeji's Blog reported Wizkid had been evicted out of his Lekki home after his rent had expired.

This supposedly angered the pop singer, who made hostile remarks about Ikeji.

Eventually, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, had to intervene putting the beef between the music star and Entrepreneur to rest.

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/7-controversial-celebrities-of-2016.html

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Lagos state Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode at the opening of the 2016 Copa Lagos beach soccer tournament. He was also pictured with D'banj, MTV Base VJ, Ehis and others. See photos below

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photos-ambode-and-dbanj-open-lagos.html

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Senate President, Bukola Saraki and other senators joined Senator Rafiu Adebayo Ibrahim in marking his 50th Birthday with the Launch of the Rafiu Adebayo Ibrahim Foundation Empowerment Program in Offa, Kwara State.

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photo-saraki-and-other-senators-at-sen.html

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, on Sunday, attended the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), the Life Centre 2016 Christmas Carol Service at the Nicon Luxury Hotel Abuja.

This was made known in the pictures shared on the Facebook page of Gloria Eluebo Adagbon.

The event also witnesses the presence of Pastor Opeyemi Boroffice Assistant Pastor RCCG The Life Centre Abuja and Pastor Odun Emasealu.

See photos below:

http://www.metronaija.com/2016/12/photos-osinbajo-attends-rccg-christmas.html

cc: lalasticlala mynd44