₦airaland Forum

Dpharisee:
I must commend Orji Uzor Kalu, dude has done more for Abia state as a Senator than when he was governor to atone for his failure as governor and to worsen his case he handed over the state to a better thief in TA Orji which he regrets unlike his Enugu counterpart Chimaroke Nnamani who messed up but handed over to a gentleman with better integrity Sullivan Chime.
I hope Igbos will recognise his efforts and forgive his past failure since he has worked so hard to make amends

Tinubu increases petrol pump price to N855 per litre

Several filling stations adjusted their price to N897 per litre on Tuesday morning.


[/i]President Bola Tinubu’s administration appears to have upped the petrol price from N650 to N855, according to pump price displays on Tuesday on fuel dispensers at the government NNPC stations.

Amid a lingering fuel scarcity and crisis, petrol prices on dispensing machines of government-backed NNPCL stations in Lagos and Abuja on Tuesday showed N855 per litre, cementing claims that the price has been reviewed upward to reflect the nation’s current foreign exchange woes and fuel landing cost hassles.

Other filling stations adjusted their price to N897 per litre on Tuesday morning.

Femi Soneye, the NNPCL spokesperson, told Peoples Gazette, “I’m not aware. But I’ll find out.”

Fuel prices have dwindled between N580 per litre to N700 per litre since Mr Tinubu became president and announced the removal of fuel subsidies in 2023.

But in recent weeks, the nation has suffered an acute fuel scarcity that led the few stations with fuel to sell at exorbitant prices above N900 per litre while black market prices exceeded N1,000.

On Thursday, the Tinubu government issued a statement denying reports that pegged the official fuel increase to N1,000.

“The federal government is compelled to address the outright falsehoods currently being circulated on social media, which claim that the Minister of Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has directed the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to inflate petroleum prices above the approved pump price,” said the statement by Nnemaka Okafor, special adviser, media and communication, to the Minister for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri.

Although sitting far at the back, Pitobi rejoices and smiles like laughing gas for a rare opportunity to sit in same vehicle with Nigeria's Vice President. pic.twitter.com/AbkoJTSfWJ

— Ayekooto (@DeeOneAyekooto) September 3, 2024

hisexcellency34:
Wike a 🐀 claiming to give birth to an 🐘. How can FCT Minister threaten to deal with PDP Governors?

gammarays:

An eye for an eye
Ogun state deals with Chinese firms
Chinese firms deals with Nigerian properties

Sweet movie 😂😂😂

Ogun shuts down two Chinese companies


Ogun State Waste Management Authority, OGWAMA has sealed two Chinese companies for operating in dirty environments, with improper waste disposal.

The companies are Yibao Industrial Limited, Bara Village along the Sagamu – Abeokuta Expressway and Ronchang Industrial Park, opposite Julius Berger yard Lagos -Ibadan Expressway.

Special Adviser and Managing Director of OGWAMA, Abayomi Hunye who led the enforcement team said the action followed several warnings which were not heeded.

Hunye explained that the two companies were also found guilty of engaging the services of unaccredited waste collectors to evacuate their waste in contravention of section 17 of the Ogun State Waste Management Authority Law of 2020 as well as their continued prevention of the assigned waste collectors to evacuate their waste from their facilities since 2021.

He noted that their unaccredited waste collectors who operate at odd hours were also found guilty of dumping waste on the Sagamu – Abeokuta and Lagos – Ibadan Expressways illegally.

Hunye said, “The essence of shutting them down is to ensure that they comply with the standard ways of managing wastes in the state. We have served them several notices and warnings and they refused to comply.

“We have even gone to their premises for inspections severally to counsel them to clean their environment and engage government approved waste collectors but they were unyielding”

“They both engage unaccredited waste collectors who have no capacities to manage their waste that is why their premises are dirty thereby exposing residents of the state to unnecessary odour and possible underground water infections from their untreated waste”

“So we have no alternative than to shut them down in the overriding public interest as their behaviour and action smacks of gross disrespect to constituted authority especially from companies owned by foreigners who are hellbent on destroying our environment”

He maintained that the state government would not sit back and watch the firms damage the state by engaging in conduct that is not tolerated in their home country.

The OGWAMA boss, however, warned other companies engaging in similar conduct to operate within the state’s waste management laws or risk facing sanctions

He also called on the Community Development Association CDA and other Non-Governmental Organizations NGOs to complement OGWAMA’s efforts by acting as whistle-blowers so that more companies who are in the habit of improper waste management can be brought to justice to further enhance the quality of life of residents of the state.

Lagos-Calabar highway may pose environmental threat – Report



The Environmental Impact Assessment and Social Assessment report of Coastal Highway Project Section 1 has projected that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway may pose security and environmental threats.

This report was obtained recently from the ‘X’ account of the Environmental Assessment Department of the Federal Ministry of Environment.

According to the report, the proposed development may negatively impact the social and physical environment within which it is executed.

It stated, “This is because, for instance, the construction phase is often a rapid and disorderly process when a strong emphasis on completing the project is paramount, not protecting the environment.

“Construction activities occur only once but can have lasting effects due to site preparation, earthworks, waste generation, traffic and safety, which are localised and reversible. During construction, the impacts are rated as significant. However, they are considered minor in duration since construction activities are temporary.

“Proper construction management practices are crucial to minimising negative impacts. Adherence to safety protocols and environmental safeguards is essential. Proactive measures, responsible construction practices, and continuous monitoring will help mitigate any adverse effects during the construction phase.”

The report noted that based on the design of the project, those impacts could be divided into two.

“First, short-term construction-related impacts typical of building construction activities, include several significant factors. Communities might resist land acquisition for the highway, which can lead to delays and disputes. Ensuring fair compensation for affected landowners and communities is critical for maintaining goodwill and resettling communities while minimising disruption, which requires thoughtful planning and sensitivity.

“Geological and environmental factors are also a concern. The construction of the coastal highway could lead to habitat destruction, disrupting ecosystems along the route. Altering the coastal landscape may increase vulnerability to erosion and flooding, with the coastal region’s susceptibility to erosion posing a risk to soil stability and overall highway integrity.

Lagos-Calabar highway: FG reroutes mega project, slashes lanes to six
“Natural features such as swamps, mangroves, and wetlands complicate foundation work and roadbed construction. Striking a balance between development and environmental conservation is crucial, with efforts needed to minimise harm to local ecosystems and wildlife habitats.”

The report further noted that the project also presented infrastructural and logistics challenges.

“Transporting construction materials over long distances can be costly and time-consuming. Developing access roads to remote construction sites is challenging, and building durable bridges across rivers and estuaries demands specialised engineering expertise.

“Security and safety concerns must also be addressed. The highway passes through regions with security challenges, such as militancy and banditry, making it essential to ensure the safety of workers and equipment. Coordinating traffic during construction, especially in densely populated areas, requires careful planning,” it asserted.

According to the firm, funding and budget constraints are another critical area. “Unexpected expenses can strain the project budget, making vigilant cost management essential. Consistent government funding throughout the eight-year construction period is vital for maintaining project continuity. Technical engineering challenges include soft soil stabilisation, which requires techniques like soil compaction, geotextiles, and deep foundations for stability,” it added.


The report indicated that proper drainage design was necessary to prevent water logging and erosion, and constructing bridges that could withstand environmental forces and heavy traffic was a significant task.

It stated, “Noise and dust nuisance from site preparation and material transportation can impact the surrounding community. Effective waste management is crucial to prevent environmental harm from site and camp waste. Soil contamination from stored fuel, lubricants, and paints is a risk that needs to be managed.

“Health and safety issues are paramount, with workers involved in construction facing health risks. Proper facilities and safety measures at the workers’ camp must be in place, and ensuring public safety near construction zones is critical.

“Efficient use of resources is necessary to optimise project outcomes, and increased social vices and other community-related challenges may arise, requiring proactive management.”

TB Joshua’s SCOAN hosts women convention


The Synagogue Church of All Nations, on Friday, hosted its inaugural “Women of Grace” convention at its international headquarters in Egbe-Ikotun.

The event, which celebrated the virtues of womanhood in Christ Jesus, attracted a large turnout of women from both within and outside Nigeria.

The event featured an array of local dances, career talks, drama sketches, Bible quizzes, and motivational speeches focused on “building a godly home.”

These activities were highlighted by the special song titled “No Jesus, No Life,” performed by the Women of Grace choir.

Evictions, Drama, and Showdowns: The No Loose Guard Season 9 Rollercoaster Continues!0.00 / 0.00

The speakers, at the event included successful Christian entrepreneurs such as Mrs. Karen Edwards, Evelyn Adedipe, Mary Paul, Joy Oputeh, and Oyeronke Adebomi, who inspired the audience with their stories and insights.

SCOAN’s leader, Pastor Evelyn Joshua, expressed her excitement and gratitude for the realization of the Women of Grace initiative.

She described the group as a long-cherished dream that had finally come to fruition.

Emphasising the importance of true womanhood as God’s will for mankind, she stated that the foundation of the Women of Grace lies in raising women of honour, integrity, and godly character.

She also thanked God for her late husband, Prophet TB Joshua, who she credited with laying the foundation of Jesus Christ upon which the church stands today.

Citing Proverbs 31:25, Pastor Joshua urged the women to embrace grace, strength, dignity, and honour as their guiding principles.

She also expressed her gratitude to the women of the church for their commitment to making God’s word the standard for their lives.

The coordinator for the group, Mrs. Morenike Jegede, described the Women of Grace as essential to fulfilling God’s will for women.

She noted that the group meets every Friday for Bible studies and prayers, addressing any challenges faced by members, and offering skills acquisition programs.

According to her, the group is divided into three bands—Deborah, Esther, and Queen of Sheba—each with 15 sub-coordinators.


Jegede also stated that the Women of Grace group has grown into a well-structured institution dedicated to the rejuvenation and empowerment of women in God’s service.

The event culminated in the presentation of the “Woman of Virtues and Resilience” award to Pastor Evelyn Joshua, as well as the empowerment of nine less privileged women.

Participants like Mrs. Olaitan Famakinwa praised the program, describing it as “fantastic” and noting that it has inspired hope and opened their eyes to a brighter future.

She said without mincing words the inaugural Women of Grace convention has established itself as a significant force in promoting the spiritual and physical well-being of women, and it’s obvious the critical role of true womanhood in the beauty of creation

NAHCO rewards cleaner for returning $10,000 found in aircraft



The Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc has rewarded a staff member of the company, Mr Auwal Dankode, who found and returned $10,000 while cleaning an aircraft in Kano.

According to a statement on Saturday, Kano-born Dankode was hosted at the company’s headquarters at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos for his transparency, honesty and integrity.

Dankode was assigned alongside other colleagues, to clean the MS 878 passenger aircraft operated by Egypt Air, when he found the money left behind by the passenger on seat No 25H, at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, MAKIA, last Wednesday.

He promptly turned the money over to the airline’s Station Manager.

The Group Managing Director/CEO of NAHCO, Mr Indranil Gupta, while commending Dankode for being a true NAHCO ambassador, who has put into use the training he received in the company, announced a handsome cash reward, instant promotion and appointment as NAHCO Brand Ambassador, the statement from the company noted..

Gupta, who led the management team in appreciating the staff member said, “We are truly proud of the exemplary character exhibited by Auwal. He is a true NAHCO ambassador and an embodiment of what NAHCO stands for, honesty, integrity, diligence and hard work.”

The GMD added, “We celebrate your being and we want this to be just the beginning. Let the values which your family has instilled, guide you and groom you into ideal leader, which everyone will be proud of.”


The CEO pointed out that the majority of NAHCO staff exhibit these values in their everyday work in the Company.

“We urge you to continue working the same way with very high integrity, diligence and continue being a good NAHCO ambassador,” Gupta said.

Also speaking on the occasion, the Chief Financial Officer of NAHCO, Mr. Adeoye Emiloju, commended Dankode for exhibiting high integrity.

“The integrity you’ve displayed is not something that anyone can pretend to have. You’ve shown that it is something that is in you,” Emiloju pointed out.

The COO, Mr. Didier Steullet, also encouraged Dankode to stay on the good path.

Steullet said: “What you have done is very good. You’re the example not only of the week but probably of the year. My only recommendation is that please keep going on the same way. Remain yourself and don’t get carried away with the adulation that you are receiving on social media. You need to remain grounded and make a difference in the world. Stay on the nice side of the ‘force’ and your life will be good.”

Group Executive Director, Dr. Sola Obabori added, “You’ve become a poster boy of NAHCO not only in Nigeria but all over the world because the internet makes things global. You have done something that makes us proud. In today’s Nigeria, where the value of a dollar is so very high, by returning so many of them, you’ve done something commendable. For you to have seen something as valuable, and give it up, it shows that you’re a man, who has purity of heart. This is very commendable and appreciated. Every well-meaning Nigerian will appreciate what you have done.”

Inside abandoned 250-bed Ogun hospital where termites, others are patients

Kehinde lost her brother, Idowu, to a car accident recently. The 26-year-old woman fought back tears as she struggled to recall the incident that claimed the life of her sibling.

“Idowu was a 34-year-old mechanical engineer. He had an accident just before Kobape in Abeokuta. Some civil defence officers took him to the Federal Medical Centre, but he died at the gate of the hospital,” she started.

“When I got to the hospital, the doctor told my mum that if he had got medical attention five minutes earlier, he wouldn’t have died. One of the civil defence officers who brought him to the hospital said if only the government had completed the hospital opposite the state secretariat, he would still be alive.”

The hospital Kehinde referred to is the 250-bed medical facility built by the immediate past governor of the state, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, in the Oke Mosan area.

Painted in white, the modern hospital, with 10 ventilators, was over 80 per cent completed when Amosun left office.

Before the former governor handed over in 2019, ex-President Muhammadu Buhari visited the hospital to inspect the facility.

It was reliably gathered that his administration paid N5bn out of the about N7bn worth of the project, a gesture that motivated the contractors.

In December 2023, after confirming that the hospital was about 20 per cent away from completion at a statutory meeting of the State Council of Obas, held at the Oba’s Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun insisted that due to incapacitation, his government could not continue with the construction and running of the hospital.

Abiodun added that the state government had, however, concluded plans to concession the 250-bed hospital to Afrexim Bank and a medical group.

He reinforced his excuse with the running cost of the state-owned Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital.

“We realise that the state will not be able to run that hospital because, as it is, our tertiary hospital, OOUTH, costs the state almost N300m every month in salaries alone. We appreciate the fact that the state is not in a position to run that hospital the way it needs to be run. From what we have seen and done, if that hospital is properly run, medical tourism will be attracted to that hospital.

“So, the state has adopted a template that we will be the landlord owning that property, and others should come and take the concession of that property and run it professionally.

“Before the end of the year, we will sign the Memorandum of Understanding with Afrexim Bank and the medical group that has agreed to take over that hospital, complete and operationalise it professionally.”

But eight months after the governor’s promise, nothing different meets the eyes of the once beautiful building, which now stands a shadow of itself.

When our correspondent visited the hospital premises, bushes had taken over the compound of the facility. The white-painted building was already fading; the tell-tale signs of abandonment were evident, and everywhere looked dusty with ants breathing freely. The windows were dirty, showing signs of neglect.

To ascertain the level of medical equipment in the facility, this reporter went into the building after surmounting the hurdles of security men at the gate.

The visit to the facility showed that the supplier of the medical equipment had continued to keep routine checks on them.

Large numbers of medical and electrical equipment were seen lying fallow inside the hospital. The hospital also has an already completed oxygen plant designed to serve the facility, as well as for commercial purposes.

At the hospital, our correspondent observed 100KVA and 500 KVA generators, which had been installed. The same for washing machines and other medical equipment which was covered, while many had been partly installed.

A document obtained from the government showed that the hospital was designed to begin operations with a 60-bed Acute Surgical and Outpatient Centre with critical care capabilities delivered at the public and private healthcare levels.

One of the contractors, who spoke with Sunday PUNCH but refused to give his name so as not to break the contractual agreement with the government, said, “All equipment and materials needed for the start-up of the hospital have been supplied, including all medical equipment. In fact, the only equipment that’s not on site is the MRI machine, which has been procured and left at the company because MRI can’t be installed until it is ready for work. The contract for the MRI was cancelled last year since there’s no time on-site for the hospital to take off.

“We spend over N300,000 monthly on diesel to service and maintain the equipment in this hospital because we can’t leave the equipment unattended; it will just rot away if not vandalised.

The contractor further revealed that about five years ago, when Abiodun got into office, the company proposed to his administration the payment of N100m monthly to offset the balance of the N2bn for the hospital to kick start, but the advice was not taken. That was when the remaining balance was just N2bn,” the contractor added.

Sunday PUNCH noted that the hospital also provides a surgical internship location for medical students of OOUTH and Schools of Nursing in the state. It provides a facility for premium private healthcare delivery and partnership with visiting regional and international medical teams in Ogun State.

Additionally, the document showed that the hospital is equipped with radiology diagnostic, laboratory, accident and emergency, maternal & childcare services, oncology and nephrology services, surgical services, and outpatient clinics.

Further findings revealed that there are four operating suites, each with its inverter as a backup to all other power sources, a 10-bed intensive care ward, a five-bed neonatal intensive care ward, and five delivery suites.

The outpatient services, accident and emergency room, four operating theatres, radiology, adult intensive care unit, laboratory, pharmacy and central sterile administration and services on the basement, and two floors are ready for commissioning.


The facility is also equipped with oxygen gas piped to every bed-head unit as part of the equipment procurement contract. The gas production plant has excess capacity, which will adequately provide a revenue stream with the commercialisation of excess gas from the plant.

But a source in the Ogun State Ministry of Health, who craved anonymity to avoid reprimand, said the hospital would now require about N10bn to run.

The source said, “When Amosun’s government was leaving office, the hospital still needed a balance of about N2bn, but owing to the neglect of the project by the present government, the variation has now jumped back to between N7bn and N10bn.”

Reacting, the spokesperson for the Caretaker Committee of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party in Ogun State, Afolabi Orekoya, regretted the situation of the hospital, saying residents were suffering from absence of good healthcare in the state.

Orekoya wondered what the governor’s priority had been if the hospital could be abandoned since 2019.

He said, “The 250-bed hospital if completed by Governor Dapo Abiodun would put Ogun State on the national map. By now, Ogun should be a destination for medical tourists seeking qualitative medical services.

“Why Gov Abiodun abandoned such a huge project for other less important ones like the cargo airport is still a mystery. The specialist hospital would have been a destination for people in dire need of healthcare facilities. So sad that a hospital equipped with over N7bn medical equipment remained underutilised under the watch of Governor Abiodun.

“My question is what exactly is the governor’s focus if a hospital that is beside the seat of power here in Abeokuta can continue to suffer this level of decay; what will happen to the ones in Yewa, Ogun waterside, and other extreme destinations in the state?”

The Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Tunde Oladunjoye, described the PDP’s claim against the governor as an attempt to launder his boss’ image after recent battering.

His words, “After his paymaster, Ladi Adebutu, has been dealt with by his running mate in the last election, Abdulkabir Adekunle Akinlade, who described him as grossly incompetent child-man; and with the PDP Chairman, Hon. Sikirulai Ogundele, saying they lost the elections due to the arbitrariness of Adebutu, it is understandable that my brother, Orekoya, needs something to attempt to shore up the fallen image of his principal.

“He wants to use Governor Dapo Abiodun to be popular. I don’t have time for him. His comment, bearing all the present administration has done on abandoned and uncompleted projects, is, to say the least, unintelligent.”

Efforts to get the state Commissioner for Health, Tomi Coker, to speak on the matter were unsuccessful. Repeated calls put across to her for two weeks were neither picked up nor returned. Also, a text message sent to her was ignored.

When this reporter visited her office twice, she was not around.

When contacted, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information, Kayode Akinmade, said he was indisposed to answering questions at the time of filing the report.

The media aide whose father had died recently said, “I am currently in a family meeting; my father just died and I am preparing for that. As I speak I am in a family meeting.”

I deliberately violated FCCPC due process to help my friend Ibrahim Mikinyawa’s Sahad Stores: VP Shettima

Mr Shettima confessed to obstructing FCCPC’s investigations by contacting the commission’s head to reopen Mr Mijinyawa’s supermarket.

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Saturday admitted he ordered the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to immediately reopen Sahad Store, a supermarket owned by his friend, Ibrahim Mijinyawa, after it was shut down for violating pricing regulations.

At the commissioning of Sahad Hospitals in Abuja on Saturday, Mr Shettima confessed to obstructing FCCPC’s investigations by contacting the commission’s head to reopen Mr Mijinyawa’s supermarket shut for customer extortion and lack of transparency in price fixing.

“When the FCCPC locked up his store, I had to call the head of the agency to say, ‘Please, reopen the store before you come and tell me what happened,” Mr Shettima said. “I did so because I know how helpful Sahad Stores is to many Nigerians.”

He added, “He (Alhaji Mijinyawa) is a very good man. He has used his business to touch many lives. If he were a selfish man, he would have kept his money to himself, his children, and grandchildren alone because he has enough to take care of himself till he leaves this world.”

In February, the FCCPC shut down Sahad Stores when its investigations showed that the supermarket was violating the law on pricing amid soaring food prices.

“The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) conducted an on-the-spot check on Sahad Stores in Abuja on February 16, 2024, leading to the temporary closure of the store due to continued violations involving misleading pricing and lack of transparency,” the commission said in a press release.

It added, “Earlier, on January 8, 2024, the FCCPC investigated Sahad Stores following reports of misleading pricing practices. The investigation revealed that Sahad Stores displayed lower prices on shelves and charged higher prices at checkout, contravening Section 115 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.”

According to the FCCPC, a summons was issued to Sahad Stores’ staff to appear on February 12, 2024, to discuss corrective measures. The staff’s failure to attend without justification raised concerns about potential violations under section 33(3) of the FCCPA.

Meanwhile, the acting executive vice chairman of FCCPC, Adamu Abdullahi, had said in a statement on February 17 that the reopening of the supermarket followed a mutual understanding and commitment from the store to implement transparent pricing practices.

Mr Shettima’s comments give insight into how connections between Nigerian business owners and political figures can lead to legal exemptions and the evasion of accountability.

Officials of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps have arrested nine individuals caught engaging in open defecation in the Berger area of the state.

The state’s Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this in a post on social media on Saturday.

He wrote, “Nine individuals were arrested for open urination and defecation at Berger last night.”

Wahab had earlier disclosed that 17 individuals were arrested on Thursday night at Berger for open urination, defecation, and not using the pedestrian bridge.

The state government’s zero-tolerance stance on open defecation is part of its broader efforts to maintain a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment for residents.

The Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources also commenced cleanup of the Ojodu-Berger highway median as part of its effort to end open defecation.

161 Nigerian students fail UK border checks, denied entry

No fewer than 1,425 international students who gained admission to universities in the United Kingdom were denied entry at the country’s airports between 2021 and 2023.

A total of 161 Nigerians were affected, as they were removed on arrival at airports across the UK.

According to data exclusively obtained from the UK Home Office through the Freedom of Information Act, India topped the list of affected foreign students with 644, representing 45 per cent of the figure, while Nigeria followed with 11.3 per cent. Ghana is third on the list with 92 (6.46 per cent), while Bangladesh is fourth with 90 (6.32 per cent).

However, the released data, covering October 2021 to October 2023, is limited to students denied entry at the airports. It does not include international students deported by the Home Office for violating the terms of their visas, such as working beyond 20 hours weekly and academic malpractice.

The Home Office did not also specify the reasons for the removal of the foreign students.

But Saturday PUNCH gathered that some of the reasons for such decisions included the inability of students to convince the Border Force officers during checks at the airports, presentation of forged documents, and deficiency in English language usage.

An immigration lawyer based in North London, UK, Dele Olawanle, in a post on X in September 2023, decried the maltreatment of students and called on the UK Government to rein in Border Force officers, whom he said had turned themselves to admission officers.


Olawanle lamented that three students contacted him for help within three hours after facing threats of removal at the airports.

He wrote, “UK border officers have turned themselves into university officials at the point of entry by questioning students entering the UK to start their course on some aspects of the course they are going to start. If they do not answer correctly, they have their visas cancelled, and some are removed from the UK. Sad! I have had three instructions on that in the last 24 hours.

“It is not their job because most of these students were interviewed by the university before being offered a place on the course. Most of these Border Force officers have not even been to university and are not qualified to examine these foreign students on their academic knowledge.

“I can say this as I have had dealings with them for the last 24 years. Their job is to make sure the students obtain entry clearance genuinely. If you are a student coming to start your course, be prepared for immigration officers turning themselves into university examiners.”
[/b
A data analyst, Nelly Okechukwu, who claimed he narrowly escaped screening at one of the airports, also shared his experience.

He wrote, “After going through a 16-hour flight, a border officer asked for my transcript, which I presented, and this lady started asking me to tell her about a course I studied in my 200-level in the university. A university I graduated from since 2012.”

[b]Student admissions

A total of 679,970 foreign students were admitted to UK universities for the 2021/2022 academic year, according to data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency.

Nigeria had the highest number of foreign students with 44,195 out of the 68,320 African citizens studying in the UK for the 2021/2022 academic year.

HESA data also shows that the number of students from Nigeria rose to 72,355 in the 2022/2023 academic year, with the explanation that the data relates to students enrolled between 1 August 2022 and 31 July 2023.

Nigerian students and their dependents in the UK contributed an estimated £1.9bn to the economy of the country in one year, according to an analysis by SBM Intelligence. The data covered the 2021/2022 academic session.

According to the data, international students contributed £41.9bn to the UK economy in the 2021/22 academic year.

The Universities UK International, which is the umbrella body for universities in the country, said it couldn’t comment on the data of student removals.

The organisation, in response to Saturday PUNCH inquiries, however, noted that immigrants on student visas who were removed at the border were far less than those admitted

161 Nigerian students fail UK border checks, denied entry

No fewer than 1,425 international students who gained admission to universities in the United Kingdom were denied entry at the country’s airports between 2021 and 2023.

A total of 161 Nigerians were affected, as they were removed on arrival at airports across the UK.

According to data exclusively obtained from the UK Home Office through the Freedom of Information Act, India topped the list of affected foreign students with 644, representing 45 per cent of the figure, while Nigeria followed with 11.3 per cent. Ghana is third on the list with 92 (6.46 per cent), while Bangladesh is fourth with 90 (6.32 per cent).

However, the released data, covering October 2021 to October 2023, is limited to students denied entry at the airports. It does not include international students deported by the Home Office for violating the terms of their visas, such as working beyond 20 hours weekly and academic malpractice.

The Home Office did not also specify the reasons for the removal of the foreign students.

But Saturday PUNCH gathered that some of the reasons for such decisions included the inability of students to convince the Border Force officers during checks at the airports, presentation of forged documents, and deficiency in English language usage.

An immigration lawyer based in North London, UK, Dele Olawanle, in a post on X in September 2023, decried the maltreatment of students and called on the UK Government to rein in Border Force officers, whom he said had turned themselves to admission officers.


Olawanle lamented that three students contacted him for help within three hours after facing threats of removal at the airports.

He wrote, “UK border officers have turned themselves into university officials at the point of entry by questioning students entering the UK to start their course on some aspects of the course they are going to start. If they do not answer correctly, they have their visas cancelled, and some are removed from the UK. Sad! I have had three instructions on that in the last 24 hours.

“It is not their job because most of these students were interviewed by the university before being offered a place on the course. Most of these Border Force officers have not even been to university and are not qualified to examine these foreign students on their academic knowledge.

“I can say this as I have had dealings with them for the last 24 years. Their job is to make sure the students obtain entry clearance genuinely. If you are a student coming to start your course, be prepared for immigration officers turning themselves into university examiners.”

A data analyst, Nelly Okechukwu, who claimed he narrowly escaped screening at one of the airports, also shared his experience.

He wrote, “After going through a 16-hour flight, a border officer asked for my transcript, which I presented, and this lady started asking me to tell her about a course I studied in my 200-level in the university. A university I graduated from since 2012.”

Student admissions

A total of 679,970 foreign students were admitted to UK universities for the 2021/2022 academic year, according to data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency.

Nigeria had the highest number of foreign students with 44,195 out of the 68,320 African citizens studying in the UK for the 2021/2022 academic year.

HESA data also shows that the number of students from Nigeria rose to 72,355 in the 2022/2023 academic year, with the explanation that the data relates to students enrolled between 1 August 2022 and 31 July 2023.

Nigerian students and their dependents in the UK contributed an estimated £1.9bn to the economy of the country in one year, according to an analysis by SBM Intelligence. The data covered the 2021/2022 academic session.

According to the data, international students contributed £41.9bn to the UK economy in the 2021/22 academic year.

The Universities UK International, which is the umbrella body for universities in the country, said it couldn’t comment on the data of student removals.

The organisation, in response to Saturday PUNCH inquiries, however, noted that immigrants on student visas who were removed at the border were far less than those admitted

helinues:


Make una take responsibility for una own actions instead of always pointing fingers

mamagee3:
Ghetto neighbor had s3x with my younger brother… she is Black American

I found out after she came to my house to tell me the story because he didn’t pick up her calls…

What do I do?

Aradel Holdings Plc, an indigenous energy company, through its subsidiary, Aradel Energy Limited, has signed a sale and purchase agreement to acquire the 100 per cent interest in the Olo and Olo West marginal fields from TotalEnergies EP Nigeria and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.

The Olo and Olo West Fields were formerly part of OML 58.

The acquisition was completed for a consideration of $16m plus $3.5m of deferred and conditional payments.

In a statement on Thursday, Aradel said the Petroleum Mining Lease (for Olo) and Petroleum Prospecting License (for Olo West) will be issued after the payment of relevant ministerial consent fees and completion of approved field development plans within designated timeframes.

“The addition of Olo and Olo West marginal fields to Aradel’s portfolio of assets is a significant inorganic growth milestone in furtherance of Aradel’s vision and long-term strategy to provide sustainable energy solutions that support economic growth,” [/b]Aradel’s Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director, Adegbite Falade, said.

Falade said the acquisition of the marginal fields is a major step in our journey of promoting energy security in Nigeria through organic and inorganic growth.

[b]“We want to commend the unwavering commitment of the Ministers of Petroleum Resources, and our regulator – the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission in supporting this acquisition, within the framework of the Petroleum Industry Act.

“We also want to commend the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and TotalEnergies for their commitment to grow Nigeria’s oil and gas production, even from marginal fields,” the CEO stated.

Olo and Olo West Fields are located within former OML 58, in the Eastern Niger Delta, 80 kilometres northwest of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

A marginal field is any field that has been discovered and has been left unattended for not less than 10 years, from the date of first discovery of such a field.

lailo:
It is the igbos that are given us this bad image in SA. Check those names they used as examples of Nigeria's names........

lailo:
Stupid worker. Na poverty go kill you.

ictmikky:
When dem come count our TV wey we no know?

Lagos monarch dissolves market c’ttees over high cost of foodstuff

A Traditional Ruler, the Akran of Badagry, Aholu Menu Toyi 1, has dissolved all market committees dictating the prices of foodstuffs and goods in Agbalata International Market, Badagry, indefinitely.

Akran announced at a meeting with Agbalata market men and women at his palace in Badagry on Tuesday.

The Akran, who was represented by Chief Onu Osekan, the Jengen of Badagry, said no committee should dictate the price of foodstuffs brought to the market by sellers any longer.

“We are all aware of the way prices of goods are going up daily in our markets.

“Some sellers are not given the freedom to sell their products by some committees who will be demanding extra money.

“Henceforth, all sellers in Badagry markets have freedom to sell their products without interference from any committee.

“Also, the charging of extra money after the sellers have collected their money from fish buyers or any others should stop.

“Nobody or committee should charge extra money from the buyers or sellers until further notice,” he said.

A cross-section of traditional chiefs at the palace of Akran of Badagry, during the dissolution of market committees on Tuesday.

The Akran said that the Badagry Kingdom was emulating Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Oni of Ife, in Osun, to ensure prices of goods are reduced.

“The Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Mr Olusegun Onilude, came to meet us in the palace and urged us to appeal to marketers in Agbalata on reduction in prices of foodstuffs.

“Please for now, let all and sundry comply with these directive,” the traditional ruler said.

He added that, therefore, in line with the directive, some selected chiefs from the palace would be going to markets to make a formal announcement.

He said that market chiefs and other selected people would be monitoring the market activities to ensure compliance.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that many market committees, associations, market heads, market men and women attended the meeting.

Traditional chiefs at the meeting include Chief Anthony Hunji, the Finhento of Badagry; Chief Senu Amosu, Baale of Jegba, and Chief Tunde Giro, the Depegan of Badagry.

Others are Chief Mobee Emmanuel, Baale of Apanukoh; Chief Onitiju Wusu, Baale of Yovokomeh; Chief M.M Okoya, Osi Iyaloja of Badagry; Chief Abimbola Ayinde, Osi Babaoja of Badagry and Chief Saliu Zanni, Huntoojan of Badagry

Lagos-Calabar highway demolition: 100 landowners team up for fresh legal war


Over 100 property owners in Lafiaji community, Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State, are planning legal action against the Federal Government as they are being issued demolition notices to evacuate their properties for the Lagos- Calabar Highway construction.

This was made known in a statement titled, ‘Being the text of a press conference addressed by Property Owners and Residents of Lafiaji Community, Eti Osa Local Government Area, Lagos State on the distortion in the construction of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway by arbitrary deviation from the long-established right of way by the Hon. Minister Of Works and the threatened unlawful demolition of their property at Lafiaji Community, Eti Osa Local Government Area, Lagos State,’ on Tuesday.

The property owners accused the Minister of Works, David Umahi, of altering the original right of way to shield prominent politicians.

In the statement, they claimed that they followed due process in acquiring their lands, adding that in the acquisitions of their plots of land and in building their property, they were well informed about the Right of Way, clearly marked, beaconed, and established for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, and, therefore, ensured that they did not encroach on or trespass to the established Right of Way.

The statement read in part, “In the acquisition of our plots of land and development of our respective homes and property, we obtained requisite consents of the Lagos State Government to our deeds of assignments, had our respective survey plans hewed from the approved Ojomu Family Layout Plan, and obtained all the necessary building approvals and development permits from the relevant agencies of the Lagos State Government.

“However, there are those who, overtime, have built on the said Right of Way and constructed huge estates crisscrossing same in the illusion that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway would never be built, without any valid legal title to the land on which they built; or with government officials-assisted fabricated certificates of occupancy with embossed survey-plans (the area coordinates of which truly are that of lands adjacent and proximate to the Right of Way, but which are passed off as that of lands situated within or covered by the Right of Way, to obtain certificates of occupancy). These persons also either did not obtain valid building approvals and development permits from the relevant agencies of the Lagos State Government or were assisted by corrupt officials of government to obtain doctored documents.

“As an outcome of the recent visit of the Honourable Minister of Works and Federal Controller of Works to the communities affected by the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, especially regarding compliance with the enforcement of the Right of Way, valuation of affected landed property, service of removal and demolition notices, and compensation, the Honourable Minister of Works and the Federal Controller of Works decided to deviate from the scrupulous implementation of the Right of way by specifically directing surveyors of the Federal Government of Nigeria (Ministry of Works) on the project to establish a fresh Right of Way, create a new alignment and alter the road-course into the area where our clients’ plots of lands and houses are situate, an area which was not covered by the long established Right of Way.”

The project, designed to connect Lagos to Cross River, passes through the coastal states of Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Edo Bayelsa, Rivers and Akwa Ibom, before culminating in Cross River.

It is crucial for enhancing connectivity and boosting economic activities along Nigeria’s coastal region and is expected to cost N4bn per kilometre, with the government awarding contracts for two sections of less than 100km at a total cost of N2.46tn.

But the coastal highway has been a subject of public scrutiny and controversies since the government commenced construction in March.

In May, Umahi disclosed that 750 houses on the path of the highway had been marked for demolition but owners of affected property were displeased with the government compensation, claiming it did not match their investments.

According to them, the compensation is grossly inadequate and there is the need for the government to review the payment.

The founder of Leisure Games, Olanrewaju Ojo, who got N1.3m compensation, told The PUNCH that the amount was what he could generate in a week.

He said, “This is ridiculous! What am I supposed to do with this? I will make this in a week.”

Stakeholders and experts also condemned the road procurement process, stressing that the contract awarded to the construction company was shrouded in secrecy and bypassed the proper procurement process.

The Lafiaji community residents noted that they wrote protest letters to President Bola Tinubu and the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, amongst other public officers, to seek redress.

“Surprisingly, our relief was short-lived as the officials of the Federal Ministry of Works subsequently resumed in our community to mark our buildings afresh, and to inform us that our property and homes are still very much within the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway course and that the new alignment had not been jettisoned as far as our lands and property were concerned.”

Petrified, they stated that they immediately embarked on an investigation, visiting the Lagos State Lands Bureau, Lagos State Office of the Surveyor-General, and the Federal Ministry of Works, Lagos.

They posited, “We have discovered to our chagrin that the Honourable Minister of Works has disregarded and rebuffed the clear directive of the President of Nigeria, as far as our lands in the Lafiaji Area is concerned. From our findings, we make bold to say that the Honourable Minister of Works has an improper and less than patriotic reasons for arbitrarily directing a departure from the long-established Right of Way for the construction of the Coastal Highway, in the Lafiaji Area.

“This is the reason, from our findings, the minister has found it difficult to follow the presidential directive in the Lafiaji Area. We discovered that amongst some huge housing estates that allegedly have sprung up illicitly on the long-established Right of Way are Ocean Bay Estate and others. The developers of these estates and some of the owners-occupiers of buildings therein are alleged to have strong political connections, ethnic ties, and social links with the powers that be.

“Therefore, the Minister of Works, in an unabashed display of nepotism, as alleged, “ruled” that the property and buildings in these estates are too valuable to be demolished, and that demolishing them would attract huge compensation from the Federal Government. In consequence, it is being alleged that the Minister of Works directed that the Right of Way be altered away from the established path and the said estates and that this new alignment be made through our lands which were never established as the original Right of Way.”

They asserted that after deciding to alter the Right of Way, the Minister of Works found a pretext for their actions by labeling their property as shanties to create the false impression that they were unlawful settlers and illegal occupiers.

“It is our considered but firm position that the decision of the Minister of Works to change the Right of Way and, therefore, the course of the Highway is an abuse of power and unlawful exercise of ministerial discretion. The Minister has no latitude of executive prerogatives to do what he has directed should be done. We dare say that, after the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has specifically directed a reversion to the old, long-established Right of Way, the adamancy of the Minister amounts to an act of ministerial lawlessness!

“As a result of the action of the Minister of Works, we are now being confronted with the prospect of being rendered homeless. The landed properties affected are not just realty investments but also the homes of many of us. Some of us currently are overseas and, therefore, are in no position to vacate and yield up possession of our property for demolition within the unreasonable time we were unconscionably given to flee our abodes.

“We appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to call the Minister of Works to order and direct him to abandon his whimsical and capricious new alignment for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway at Lafiaji, Eti Osa Local Government Area, and revert to the original long-established Right of Way, as the President had earlier directed."

The Federal Government had in June said it had rerouted the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway path to avoid any possible damage to subsea cables belonging to telecommunication companies.

The government also said it had reduced the project’s size from 10 lanes to six as a cost-saving measure for the legacy project.

Umahi, who made the announcements at a meeting with contractors on Tuesday in Abuja, also said the government had disbursed a total sum of N10bn as compensation to property owners affected by the demolition necessary for the construction of the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.


This was as it announced that the first 47km of the project would be open to the public by May of next year.

The legal practitioner representing the community, Jiti Ogunye, said there were so many obstacles involved in proceeding to court on the part of prospective litigants because of the need to reform the judicial process.

He said, “The rules of court are one of the major obstacles, and our courts are congested because our justice dispensation infrastructure is small. However, we want to give it the best shot we can give it because right and morality are on our side, and if we fail, it will not be that we did not try but the system is hostile to success.

“Hence, if we are left with no other choice and if push goes to shove, we will go to court.”

A resident, Bonojo Olalekan, said over 100 property owners were affected by the rerouting.

In a brief call with the Federal Comptroller with the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Olukorede Keisha, she referred our correspondent back to the Honorable Minister of Works.

She retorted, “I said you should go to the Honorable Minister.”

Also, several attempts to reach the Special Adviser (Media) to the Minister of Works, Orji Uchenna Orji, through calls and texts were not responded to.

Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Environment has announced a 21-day public display of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment report for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.

This was disclosed on the agency’s website on Tuesday.

It stated, “Public display exercise on the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for the proposed Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Section 1 (0km – 47.5km) By Federal Ministry Of Works.

“Following the provisions of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act CAP E12 LFN 2004, which makes it mandatory for proponents of all new major developmental activities to carry out EIA for their proposed projects, the Federal Ministry of Environment hereby announces twenty-one (21) working days public display for information and comments on the draft ESIA report for the above-stated project submitted by Federal Ministry of Works.

“This display is to enable the public to make inputs that shall facilitate informed decision taking by the Ministry on the proposed project.”

The report noted that the project required an ESIA due to the potential environmental and social impacts associated with its construction to comply with international standards and Nigerian regulations.


“The ESIA is a crucial tool for identifying, assessing, and mitigating the potential negative impacts of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project while maximising its benefits. Alongside the ESIA is the preparation of a Resettlement Action Plan for the Highway. A Resettlement Action Plan is essential for a highway due to the potential for involuntary resettlement.

“The ESIA aims to ensure the project is developed and implemented sustainably, protecting the environment and benefiting the local community. The primary goal of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is to identify, assess, and mitigate potential negative impacts on the environment and society.”

The report further noted that the highway was a significant infrastructural development spanning over 700km and divided into nine sections.

It added, “Work will begin with Section 1, which spans from 0km to 47.5km in Lagos. Section 1 includes development activities related to transportation, coastal resort facilities, hotels, and recreational facilities in national parks and marine parks.

“The project’s impact assessment has a phased approach to demonstrate a commitment to environmental and social considerations. This ESIA report specifically focuses on Section 1, providing a foundation for subsequent sections. The ESIA evaluates the environmental and social impact of a plan, policy, program, or project before deciding to proceed with the proposed action.

“It covers various aspects, including the environment’s physical, biological, socio-economic, and health elements. The ESIA will describe project activities and identify potential impacts on air, water, soil, vegetation, wildlife, land use, and affected individuals and assets.

World's police in technological arms race with Nigerian mafia


The operations to tackle the gang included arrests made in Switzerland
Police units around the world have joined forces in a series of covert operations targeting one of West Africa’s most feared criminal networks - .

Operation Jackal III saw officers in body armour carry out raids in 21 countries between April and July 2024.

The mission, co-ordinated by global policing agency Interpol, led to the arrest of 300 people with links to and other affiliated groups.

Interpol called the operation a “major blow” to the Nigerian crime network, but warned that its international reach and technological sophistication mean it remains a global threat.

In one notorious example, Canadian authorities said they had busted a money-laundering scheme linked to worth more than $5bn (£3.8bn) in 2017.

“They are very organised and very structured,” Tomonobu Kaya, a senior official at Interpol’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre, told the BBC.

According to a 2022 report by Interpol, “ and similar groups are responsible for the majority of the world’s cyber-enabled financial fraud as well as many other serious crimes”.

Mr Kaya said innovations in money-transfer software and cryptocurrency have played into the hands of group, which are renowned for multi-million dollar online scams.

“These criminal syndicates are early adopters of new technologies… A lot of fintech developments make it really easy to illegally move money around the world,” he said.

.The ultra-violent cult that became a global mafia

Operation Jackal III was years in the making and led to the seizure of $3m of illegal assets and more than 700 bank accounts being frozen.

Many members are university educated and are recruited during their schooling.

The organisation is a secretive criminal network with trafficking, prostitution and killing operations around the world.

Cyber-crime, targeting individuals and businesses, is the organisation's largest source of revenue.

Multiple so-called “Jackal” police operations have taken place since 2022.

Dozens of and other gang members have been arrested and their electronic devices seized during these transnational raids. This work has enabled Interpol to create a vast intelligence database, which is now shared with officers throughout its 196 member countries.

“We need to have data and to collate our findings from these countries to help build a picture of their modus operandi,” said Mr Kaya.

Interpol Police searching though items after a raidInterpol

The Swiss police were pictured carefully going through the contents of a property they had raided

Despite multiple international arrests, some experts feel not enough is being done to address the root of these crime syndicates in West Africa.

“The emphasis must actually be on prevention not on outright operations against these criminal groups,” said Dr Oluwole Ojewale, West Africa Regional Co-ordinator from the Institute for Security Studies.

Nigeria, which has witnessed widespread anti-corruption protests in recent weeks, is one of Africa’s largest economies, but has as many as 87 million people living below the poverty line, according to the World Bank. It is also the main recruitment ground for .

Interpol said it was carrying out training exercises with key Nigerian stakeholders and police officials. But corruption, and allegations of collusion between and local authorities, remain major obstacles.

“It is the politicians who are actually arming these boys,” said Dr Ojewale. “The general failure of governance in the country has made pressures for people to be initiated [into ].”

Despite its current global reach, Interpol’s Jackal Operations have their origins in Ireland.
Following a series of police raids by the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) in 2020, a handful of members were arrested, paving the way for the exposure of a far wider network.

“They were very under the radar, very low-key,” said Michael Cryan, detective superintendent at the GNECB, which led the operation.

“The amount of money being laundered through Ireland was astronomical,” he added.
Interpol A collection of mobile phones seized by the policeInterpol

Interpol released a picture of mobile phones that were seized as part of a raid in South Africa

The police subsequently identified 1,000 people with links to in Ireland and have made hundreds of arrests for fraud and cyber-crime.

“Bank robberies are now done with laptops - they’re far more sophisticated,” said Det Supt Cryan.

He estimates €200m ($220m; £170m) have been stolen online in Ireland in the past five years, and that only accounts for the 20% of cyber-crimes that are believed to be reported.

“This is not typical or ordinary crime… People who make decisions need to know how serious this is,” he said.

Irish police operations in November 2023 revealed that cryptocurrency - which can be sent rapidly between digital wallets around the world - is becoming an integral element in ’s money-laundering operations.

More than €1m in crypto-assets were seized during one operation.

Interpol has deployed its own new technology in an attempt to tackle these innovations, launching the Global Rapid Intervention of Payments system (I-GRIP).

The mechanism, which enables the authorities in member countries to freeze bank accounts around the world with unprecedented speed, was used to halt a $40m scam targeting a Singaporean business last month.

Interpol's Mr Kaya said technology like this would make it harder for criminals to move money across borders with impunity.

A major effort is under way to gather and share intelligence on and other West African syndicates by police around the world.

“If we can gather this data we can take action,” he said.