The Uruguayan Government is planning to legalize the sale , Cultivating and purchase of Cannabis Sativa a.k.a Marijuana. This is in a bid to curtail the drug violence ravaging the region.

With the legalization and regulations, the government is hoping to put a dent in the Marijuana bussiness which is estimated to be worth over $40 million.

Jose Calzada of the National Drug Board while speaking to El Pais News, said"The illegal market is very risky and offers poor quality," The state "will provide a safe place to buy, a good quality product and, moreover, will sell at a standard price."

The bill which has been sent to the Senate is proposing to sell Marijuana at $1 a gram, which is slightly below the market price of $1.40 a gram in the country. Also, the proposed law states, that individuals will be allowed to cultivate the cannabis plant for their own use, belong to a membership club that could grow up to 99 plants and also buy the drug at a pharmacy, with a limit of 40 grams a month per person..... Read More http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/uruguay-to-legalize-cannabis.html

Reports coming in says the presidency is under pressure from some big wigs to sack the errant Minster of Aviation, Stella Oduah, as they termed her "too much baggage", "She has to go, the disgrace is too much".

This follows the Ministry of Aviation's confirmation that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority actually bought the two BMW bullet proof cars worth $1.6 million for Stella Oduah.

Source within Aso Rock are saying the Nigerian President, GoodLuck Jonathan have been holding closed door talks with power brokers in efforts to resolve the issue. Possibility that the Minister will be sacked is very high..... Read More http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/president-jonathan-may-sack-aviation.html

On Thursday the 17th of October, Disney Media Distribution announced plans for the production of an African version of the hit series "Desperate Housewives". This production will be done in collaboration with Ebonylife Tv owned by Mo Abudu.

General Manager, Disney Media Distribution, Emerging Markets, Giovanni Mastrangelo said, “Co-producing “Desperate Housewives Africa” with EbonyLife TV offers the opportunity to engage African audiences through locally relevant and entertaining storytelling. It’s terrific news that the local version of this hit series, starring a pan-African cast, will bring to life the universal stories and characters created by ABC Studios.”


Ebonylife Tv CEO, Mo Abudu added, “In “Desperate Housewives” we find one of the most amazing formats for TV and we are extremely excited to be co-producing it with Disney Media Distribution EMEA. On our part, and in line with our mission which is to create original, homegrown and premium content with an African soul, we will work to ensure parity with the original storyline and production values that have characterised the global series, without compromising on that very important African essence. This is very crucial to our channel as it definitely is to The Walt Disney Company.”...... Read More http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/ebonylife-tv-to-co-produce-desperate.html

Since the release of his last Album 'Life Is Good' Nas Nasir Jones has been touring the globe and investing in businesses. The artiste who celebrated his 40th birthday last month, sat down with Huffington post for an interview, where he revealed details of his album and more. He said the album is yet untitled and he also has plan of venturing into the fashion industry.

here is an excerpt from the interview.


Next year will mark the 20-year anniversary of the release of "Illmatic." Are there any special plans underway to commemorate the milestone?
We’re putting together a concert. And I think we’re going to do something with the album and repackage it with special stuff. I think that’s in the works.
Earlier this year you initially planned to unveil the title to your next album. What has been the cause of the delay?
I got a little busy, and I wasn’t sure it was really a real fit for the record. It felt like I came up with it too easy. And I like that because “Life Is Good” came up on its own. It just popped in my head. So the next title came up in a similar way, but it was probably too early...... Read More.

http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/nas-talks-new-album-and-business.html

American Star Stand Up Comedian Deray Davis and Tony Roberts are now in Nigeria for the Glo Laffta Fest comedy show.

Speaking with reporters, Davies said Nigerians attending the show should expect non-stop comedy. “Non-stop comedy. I'm very unpredictable, so I don’t know what I'm going to say. If you're in front of me, I might talk about you. I don't want to offend anybody, but you never know. You've got the best right here with you!”

"I just want to have a good time and bring my own brand of comedy to a whole new place. Many may have watched me on TV, but they’ve never seen me perform live. It's going to be spectacular. It's going to be a different vibe coming from me on that stage. I just want to create a stress-free environment and make the audience have a good time.” ...... Read More http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/glo-laffta-fest-american-comedians.html

Ethiopian Football Association, has said, it is going to investigate claims that their fans attacked the Nigerian super eagles team bus after the World Cup qualifier play off in Addis Ababa last Sunday.

Juneidin Basha, President of the Ethiopian FA, said. "We saw the reports that Nigeria's bus was attacked and a player was injured.

"Tuesday was a holiday in Ethiopia so we couldn't do anything about it, but we will work with the security forces to investigate what has actually happened and hopefully respond soon."

According to the Nigerian team, midfielder Nosa Igiebor was injured in the attack when the team bus windows were shattered by the Ethiopian fans as the eagles left the stadium. http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/nigerian-team-bus-attack-ethiopian-fa.html

Nigerian Golden eaglets are battle ready to kick start their campaign in the Under-17 World Cup championship holding in the United Arab Emirates, which started yesterday.Nigeria’s first game is against holders Mexico on the 19th of October 2013.The battle ready eaglets must crush the Mexicans in tomorrows opener to send a message to other country about their readiness to bring the trophy to Africa Nigeria. Despite the fact that the Mexicans are the defending champions.


Having won the title three times, in 1985, 1993 and 2007 and runners-up 1987, 2001 and 2009,the golden Eaglets are no minnows in this age group competition,apart from Nigeria, Brazil are the other team to have won the FIFA Under-17 World Cup three times...... Read More http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/under-17-world-cup-2013-eaglets-awaits.html

alls have been made by Civil Society Groups and some stake holders in the Aviation for the investigation of the purchase of two bullet proof cars for the Aviation Minister Stella Oduah.

In interview with correspondents from Nigerian Eye on Thursday, respondents said their call for a probe is in order to identify those involved in the controversial deal. The Assistant general Secretary of Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) Mr. Mohammed Tukur, said the purchase is unfortunate and shows the height corruption has gotten to in the country.

“This shows how bad things have gone in this country; that the minister has admitted to receiving the cars from the NCAA reveals that they do not care for the people of this country.

“We can see that all these people and parastatals use their offices to siphon funds for anything they want. We think there is no other option but for her (Oduah) to resign her appointment as the aviation minister.

“Also, we call on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to thoroughly investigate the issue, because, some of us had foresight of these things, and we know that there are more coming up soon.”...... Read More http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/bullet-proof-cars-stake-holders-and.html

The Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities ,ASUU have finally reached an agreement to end the over three months strikes embarked upon by the University Lecturers.

Following meetings held on September 19 and October 11 between representatives of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, led by its chairman, Prof. Hamisu, ASUU representatives led by Dr. N. Fagge the Associations President and the Federal Government delegation led by Vice President Namadi Sambo.

The federal government have now committed to spending 200 Billion Naira in the 2014 on the Universities.In addition to the 100 Billion already made available for 2013. Also, the FG has increased to 40 billion Naira first installment funds for payment of allowances to the Lecturers instead of the previously released 30 billion Naira...... Read More http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/federal-government-and-ASUU-reach.html

The United Arab Emirate, UAE, will have its first glimpse today as all eyes will be glue to see how great footballers are made,as this tournament has serves as the starting point for great players.

The Under -17 FIFA world cup was formally known as the FIFA Under-16 Championship, a biannual tournament which began in 1985 in China PR, where Nigeria Golden Eaglets emerged champions of the maiden edition beating the then W. Germany to the title with a 2-0 victory.Since then,Nigeria has remain a force to reckon with in the youth cadre,along side Brazil.


In this edition of the tournament, five newcomers ,Iraq, Slovakia, Sweden, Venezuela and Morocco will be showing their prowess in the making of the best as they all slogs it out in the championship. Its no news that in 2009,Switzerland clinched the title in their first outing, who knows,history may repeat itself again...... Read More http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/fifa-under-17-world-cup-kicks-off-in.html

Ministers in the UK have been asked to find ways of ending the scandal of having more than one in eight prisoners being from other countries.

According to reports by Dailymail, Hundreds of Nigerians serving various prison terms in UK prisons will be sent back home to Nigeria to complete their term.

Britain has also said it will pay to build new prisons in Nigeria in other to speed up the prisoner transfer process. About 1 Million pounds has been marked to upgrade Nigerian prisons and also build a new wing at the Kirikiri prison in Lagos.

Figures show that there were 534 Nigerians in British Jails, 485 men and 49 women. One in 20 foreign prisoners in the UK is a Nigerian. Each felone cost the British government £40,000 a year..... Read More http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/nigerian-prisoners-in-britan-to-be-sent.html

2face Idibia: From his artistry to passion for change, the Pop king of Africa has continued to use his music as a muse to influence all. Through his foundation, ‘2face Idibia Reach-Out Foundation’, Idibia, an icon by every definition, has dedicated a great amount of time, effort and resources towards reaching out to fellow humans in need.
Alex Okosi: As Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Viacom International, Africa, Okosi continues to showcase Africa to the world and vice versa with the MTV, BET, Nickelodeon and Comedy Central platforms. Okosi is one of the top dogs determining the present and future of entertainment on TV.
Ali Baba: Still at the top of the food chain when it concerns comedy in Nigeria, Ali Baba, a pioneer stand-up comedian is not only responsible for making the trade profitable, he continues to use his influence to hold up the platform for others to shine.
Amaka Igwe: A strong pillar in Nollywood, Igwe’s undying love for motion picture has helped her carve a niche for herself whether with her famous soap operas or her annual BOBTV TV expo. Her Lagos-based radio station, Top Radio has also become a force to reckon with.......
Who’s on the list?
S/N Artiste Designation
1. 2face Musician/Activist
2. Alex Okosi Media Entrepreneur
3. Ali Baba Comedian
4. Amaka Igwe Film Maker/ Entrepreneur
5. Amin Moussalli Media Entrepreneur
6. Audu Maikori Lawyer/Label exec
7. Ayo Animashaun Media Entrepreneur
8. Biola Alabi Media entrepreneur
9. Bolanle Austen Peters Arts and culture enthusiast
10. Chika Nwobi Entrepreneur
11. Chris Ubosi Media entrepreneur
12. Clarence Peters Video director/Label exec
13. D’banj Musician
14. Don Jazzy Music producer
15. DJ Jimmy Jatt DJ
16. Edi Lawani Event consultant
17. Efe Omorogbe Talent manager/Consultant
18. Emeka Mba Administrator
19. Femi Ayeni Media entrepreneur
20. Femi Kuti Musician/activist
21. Funke Akindele Actress
22. Genevieve Nnaji Actress
23. Ibinabo Fiberesima Actress/administrator
24. Jason Njoku New Media entrepreneur
25. King Sunny Ade Musician
26. Kunle Afolayan Filmmaker
27. KWAM 1 Musician
28. Linda Ikeji Blogger
29. M.I Musician
30. Mo’ Abudu TV entrepreneur
31. Omotola Jalade Ekeinde Actress/activist
32. Peace Fiberesima Awards ceremony organiser
33. Psquare Musician
34. Rotimi Pedro Media entrepreneur
35. Sam Onyemelukwe Media entrepreneur
36. Tajudeen Adepetu Media entrepreneur
37. The Murray-Bruces Media entrepreneur
38. Tony Okoroji Musician/ industry regulator
39. Tunde Kelani Filmmaker
40. Uche Eze media entrepreneur
41. Wizkid Musician


Read More http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/nets-most-influential-people-in.html

On Tuesday, the Osun State High court gave a verdict , droping all charges in a three-year rape case brought by Helen Okpara (Then NYSC Member) against a traditional ruler, The Alowa of Ilowa-Ijesha, Oba Adebukola Alli.

Justice Oyejide Falola, while delivering her judgement, said Miss Helen Okpara (Plaintiff) was unable to convince the court beyond reasonable doubt that she was raped by the monarch. That a rape case could have been established if the victims pants and medical reports indicated forceful penetration. That the prosecution failed to tender these evidence, they failed to show any bruises to the plaintiff's private part and also there was no evidence of her torn clothes, as she claimed....... Read More http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/osun-monarch-found-not-guilty-on-rape.html

Huffington Post has released a list of African Top ten musicians with the highest bank balance and assets.

See who made the list.


10. Jose Chameleone
Jose (or Joe) Chameleone is a Ugandan artist who found his niche blending traditional Ugandan folk music, a bit of rumba and a heavy reggae influence. He sings in English, Swahili, and Luganda. His mansion outside of Kampala and four cars (including a Cadillac Escalade and a Benz) are evidence of his success, particularly with his hit, “Valu Valu.” He’s been credited with changing the face of music in Uganda, as well as making local music accessible to the rest of the world....... http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/dbanj-psquare-2face-and-banky-w-makes.html

The popular American Tv show "24" will hit Indian airwaves this October, but if you are expecting to see Jack Bauer, well think again, as this is an adaptation of the series.

Bollywood super star Anil Kapoor, who also starred in the original "24" as a middle eastern president, has taken the show home, making it the first foreign adaptation of "24"
http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/india-bollywood-adapts-american-hit-tv.html

A Gas Pipeline exploded in Delta State yesterday, killing 2 people and injuring 8 others.
The Pipeline belonging to Pipelines and Product Marketing Company (PPMC) subsidiary of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), exploded yesterday at Okwokolo Community, Mereje, Okpe local government area of Delta State.

The fire which caused the exploded is still being put out as at 6:30 pm yesterday, while officials of the PPMC are disputing reports that 2 persons were killed.
http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/gas-pipeline-explodes-in-delta-state.html

A new app, named LeftoverSwap, that allows users to locate their half-eaten food materials and share them with others is being unveiled. The app is capable of making food products like bread, milk, burger, plantain chips, sausage, pizza, gari, yam, akpu
and more; available to others. The description of how the app works is as follows: snap a picture of your excess food, give it a name and click on share. A pin will drop on a map afterwards, hence allowing "Leftover Takers" to browse for their preference by geographical proximity.
http://www.searchlightnigeria.com/2013/10/app-that-allows-you-to-find-and-share.html