₦airaland Forum

Aero Marks 60 Years Of Flight Operations In Nigeria
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/05/22/aero-marks-60-years-of-flight-operations-in-nigeria/

Nigeria’s oldest surviving carrier, Aero Contractors Ltd., on Tuesday celebrated its 60th anniversary of flight operations in the country. Speaking at the ceremony, Capt. Ado Sanusi, Chief Executive Officer, Aero Contractors, said the airline which began operations in 1959 had hugely contributed to human capacity development in the aviation sector. Sanusi said the airline had an enviable safety record with zero fatalities since it began both commercial flights and helicopter charter services. He, however, noted that Aero had faced hard times from February 2013 to August 2016, which led to its takeover by the Federal Government through the Asset Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON). Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, According to him, the AMCON intervention was aimed at returning Aero to profitability through repositioning of its operations and expansion of its portfolio of services. Sanusi therefore, said the management had to make tough choices to sustain and stabilise the airline’s operations and ultimately return it to an active player in the Nigeria’s aviation sector. He said: “It is my sincere pleasure to inform you all that like a phoenix, Aero has risen from its hard times. “Our individual and collective sacrifices, resilience and insistence that this airline is lifted back up is paying off and yielding visible results.” According to him, the airline services has since December 2016, returned to full operations and grown its fixed wing operational aircraft from one to four. “It is our expectation to grow our fixed wing aircraft to six by the close of this year. The present count of four aircraft improved our domestic flight operations to 32 daily. “From one helicopter in 2017, we now have five operational helicopters with capacity to further grow this number to 10 helicopters by close of the year so as to deepen our services. “In all, we began our repositioning journey growing our domestic operations from eight to 32 daily flights. “From ferrying 8,000 passengers per month, to 52, 000 passengers per month into and out of the several airports on our route,” Sanusi added. He disclosed that the Aero Aircraft Maintenance Organisation which was approved by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to carry out C-checks on Boeing 737 Classics had helped to turn around the fortunes of the airline. Sanusi said Aero had successfully conducted C-checks on 737 CL Boeing aircraft and had secured approval from the Governments of Ghana and Democratic Republic of Congo to carry out C-checks on B737 aircraft registered in the countries. Speaking on behalf of the Ibru family, Mrs Cecilia Ibru, former Managing Director of the defunct Oceanic Bank, commended the staff of the airline for putting in their best towards sustaining its operations. Ibru also acknowledged the role played by the incumbent Aero management in repositioning the airline and restoring the confidence of the flying public in its operations. Eyes Of Lagos reports that Aero Contractors was first formed in 1959 in the Netherlands before being officially registered in Nigeria in 1960. At inception, it was wholly owned Schreiner Airways B.V. of the Netherlands. Aero later became a partly Nigerian-owned company with an initial 40 per cent Nigerian shareholding in 1973. This grew to 60 per cent by 1976 in fulfillment of the requirements of compliance with the Nigerian Enterprises Promotion Decree of 1977, also known as the Indigenisation Decree. By January 2004, Schreiner Airways was bought over by CHC Helicopter which acquired a 40 per cent holding in Aero. while the 60 per cent majority share remained within the lbru family. By July 2010, CHC sold its interests in Aero and the airline became wholly owned by the Ibru family until it was taken over by AMCON in 2013 due to its huge indebtedness.

Former Presidential Aide Advises Sanwo-Olu Against Making ‘Empty’ Promises
source: https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/05/22/former-presidential-aide-advises-sanwo-olu-against-making-empty-promises/

Former spokesperson for ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, Dr. Reuben Abati, has advised the governor-elect of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, against making what he termed as empty promises.

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, The journalist made his remark in his column titled: Promises and the Future: “Sanwo-Olu and other govs-elect” which was published at the back page of ThisDay Newspapers on Tuesday, May 21, 2019.

Abati, in his intervention, cautioned the governor-elect to refrain from making promises that he may not be able to keep warning that there would be consequences as the media and other stakeholders would double check and call him to account in due time.

According to Abati, Mr. Sanwo-Olu was not a professional politician advising him to resist the temptation to talk like one.

The columnist who was making reference to recent comments by the incoming governor about how he would end the Apapa gridlock, said: “Sanwo-Olu, the Governor-elect of Lagos State has been quoted making many promises, after the 2019 election in the spirit of the triumphalism of the moment. He says for example that he will employ graduates as BRT drivers and pay them N100, 000 as salary.

“That is what most of these newly-elected Governors and legislators across the country have been doing. They are ever-ready with poorly considered, formulaic responses. Sanwo-Olu wants to pay drivers N100, 000? Has he checked whether or not the state can afford to do so?,” he queried.

“At the same event, Sanwoolu boasted that he would put an end to the traffic gridlock on the Apapa expressway within 60 days of his inauguration. He should be careful about what he promises,” adding that “He should know that he cannot fix the Apapa traffic gridlock in 60 days!”

The former presidential spokesperson recalled a comment made by a former governor of the state, Mr. Babatunde Fashola who is now Minister of Power, when he said the problem of electricity in the country could be solved within six months.

According to Abati, Mr. Fashola has been unable to solve the problem he boasted he could handle adding that the Minister is currently having problems with private sector stakeholders.

In concluding, Dr. Abati who also a presenter Arise Morning Show on Arise TV, said: “It would help if the elected persons ahead of their inauguration, try to be sensible enough not to behave badly or make unintelligent statements or such political speech that cast doubts on their eligibility for office.

“They will destroy their own credibility by so doing. And it would help a great deal more if departing Governors and legislators-elect can just keep quiet too, and focus more on the common good. The election was bad enough. They should not make things worse by showing so early in the day that the people made mistakes.”

Buhari won’t be part of your ungodly agenda’ – Senator Marafa attacks Gov. Yari
source : https://eyesoflagos.com/2019/05/21/buhari-wont-be-part-of-your-ungodly-agenda-senator-marafa-attacks-gov-yari/

Chairman of Senate Committee on Petroleum (Downstream), Senator Kabiru Marafa, has raised the alarm over alleged attempt by the Governor Abdulaziz Yari to influence the outcome of the Supreme Court’s ruling on the crisis rocking the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, in Zamfara State.
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, In a statement on Monday, Marafa said that Governor Yari’s iftar dinner (breaking of Ramadan fast) with President Muhammadu Buhari in Saudi Arabia was an attempt to influence the outcome of the court.
He noted that Yari and the Emir of Maradun, Alhaji Garba Tambari, had iftar dinner with President Buhari in Makkah, Saudi Arabia yesterday.
Recall the Supreme Court had fixed the judgement of the appeals filed by Yari and APC on the ruling of Appeal Court Sokoto on Zamfara APC candidates tussle for Friday.
The governor’s camp had requested the Supreme Court to set aside the judgement of the Appeal Court which upturned the ruling of the Zamfara High Court upon which INEC recognised the candidates nominated by the governor for the last general elections.
However, Marafa said in his statement, “the uninvited and unwanted company of Yari at this point in time when the Supreme Court had fixed Friday 24 for judgement on Yari and APC Appeal amounts to contempt.
“It is all aimed at showing the panel of the esteemed justices and Nigerians that the president is friendly and sympathetic to his ungodly act.

OLAMIDE THANKED INSTAGRAM FOR THE NEW MUTE FEATURE ADDED & ALSO GAVE A STERN WARNING
source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2019/05/ybnl-boss-olamide-thanked-instagram-for.html

The YBNL Boss, Olamide has a little warning to everyone on his Social Media pages if they found wanting of the stupid act.Eyes Of Lagos report gathered that Baddo promised to use the Instagram newly added feature “Mute” on anyone that act stupid or foolish on his page. He cleared the air on that via his IG story. See post below

AWARD WINNING COMEDIAN MCSMART BAGS IN NEW ENDORSEMENT DEAL WITH SURF
source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2019/04/fast-rising-award-winning-comedian.html


Prolific Mc, Actor and Comedian Joseph Oche Udeh “Mc Smart” seems to be one of the hottest mc/comedian in Nigeria you should watch-out for, because he is not slowing down at all as he bags in new endorsement deal with a transportation company called Surf .
The benue born superstar mc is also the Host of Kanu Heart Foundation Music Concert in London which featured many top Nigerian entertainers like A.Y comedian as the co- host, rekaado banks, peruzzi, Dj cuppy and many more

watch video :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVV8zlNdhtw

This makes it very easy for her to blend her musical styles with any genre of music without switching her sound. She hit nationwide limelight after an outstanding stage performance at the Star Trek tour held in Abuja, Nigeria.




1. How would you describe what you do for a living?
Ans : Feels like am living my Dreams...like am the Boss in control of my craft,it gives me inner peace which is the most important...

2. What is your most vivid childhood memory? .
Ans : lol The day we had a riot in Enugu,I was just very little and scared in school,there was no Movement and my parents couldn’t come and pick me up...Crying under my school staircase,all of a sudden I heard my brothers voice, he had to run all the way from CIC to come rescue me,lol he was just in JSS1 but he still made it with me home not minding the danger we encountered on our way home..




3. If you could invite any three people, dead or alive, for dinner, who would they be and why?
Ans : my Friend Sochi(Late),Davido and My Mum...
Sochi happens to be a friend I lost after secondary school,I miss her and will love to remind her how happy she always made people around her be and will love to watch her laugh again...
Davido is one artist I admire his life style,having a dinner with him present will really gon be Fun I feel...
My mum is one person I always love by my side while eating,She wunt let me talk! Lol

4. If you ever found yourself auditioning for a music reality TV show, what song would you sing and why? .
Ans : PABLO by Lucy Q..
There’s something about that song,it will differently move you if Only you have ears for good music.


5. If you are to be the president of nigeria for a day , name one thing you will love to do for your country

Ans : Well for the Country... I will Vacate everyone to another country First!! Nigeria needs to cool off, needs a Break!! Lol




6. What would you say is the biggest misconception about you?
Ans : Not being a girly Girl..lol

7. What is your (honest) opinion of growing up in the Eastern part of Nigeria ?
Ans : I see Growing up in the East as a guideline!! Mostly as an eastern rapper, the East has a way of making you see reasons to be motivated,reasons to want to be the best amongst the rest!! A lot of young talents out her, you just have to stay woke!!! EAST puts you in the Breast form when your really up for your hustle!!

8. What's the greatest fear you've had to overcome to get where you are today?
Ans : Being shy unnecessarily lol...sounds funny but that was just my fear, how to over come it cause I never saw anyone as my problem...Nahh no one scares me lol..

9. What's the one thing you'd like to achieve before you die? .
Ans : Going Global!!! It comes with the Full package of Life..




10. Which well- known Nigerian personality would you , without a doubt, be able to beat in a street fight and why?

lol Wahala Dey... the Question could have been ,which art arnt scared of my abilities as a rapper...lol...

10 FACTS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE NEW RAP GODDESS OF THE EAST LUCY Q - Eyes Of Lagos
source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2019/03/10-facts-you-need-to-know-about-new-rap.html

Lucy-Q is an up-and-coming female rap artist, born and raised in Enugu State, Nigeria, Born as Lucy Queen Eneh, also known as Pefizy, she hails from Eziagu, Eziagu local government area of Enugu State, Nigeria. This self acclaimed queen of Igbo rap has a unique sound. Here is a strong contender for the Igbo rap female chairman position. And fellow femcee Splash better watch out for her place. The Rap Goddess is signed to Big n Small Entertainment and she is hottest female eastern rapper you should watch out for in Nigeria

This makes it very easy for her to blend her musical styles with any genre of music without switching her sound. She hit nationwide limelight after an outstanding stage performance at the Star Trek tour held in Abuja, Nigeria.




1. How would you describe what you do for a living?
Ans : Feels like am living my Dreams...like am the Boss in control of my craft,it gives me inner peace which is the most important...

2. What is your most vivid childhood memory? .
Ans : lol The day we had a riot in Enugu,I was just very little and scared in school,there was no Movement and my parents couldn’t come and pick me up...Crying under my school staircase,all of a sudden I heard my brothers voice, he had to run all the way from CIC to come rescue me,lol he was just in JSS1 but he still made it with me home not minding the danger we encountered on our way home..




3. If you could invite any three people, dead or alive, for dinner, who would they be and why?
Ans : my Friend Sochi(Late),Davido and My Mum...
Sochi happens to be a friend I lost after secondary school,I miss her and will love to remind her how happy she always made people around her be and will love to watch her laugh again...
Davido is one artist I admire his life style,having a dinner with him present will really gon be Fun I feel...
My mum is one person I always love by my side while eating,She wunt let me talk! Lol

4. If you ever found yourself auditioning for a music reality TV show, what song would you sing and why? .
Ans : PABLO by Lucy Q..
There’s something about that song,it will differently move you if Only you have ears for good music.


5. If you are to be the president of nigeria for a day , name one thing you will love to do for your country

Ans : Well for the Country... I will Vacate everyone to another country First!! Nigeria needs to cool off, needs a Break!! Lol




6. What would you say is the biggest misconception about you?
Ans : Not being a girly Girl..lol

7. What is your (honest) opinion of growing up in the Eastern part of Nigeria ?
Ans : I see Growing up in the East as a guideline!! Mostly as an eastern rapper, the East has a way of making you see reasons to be motivated,reasons to want to be the best amongst the rest!! A lot of young talents out her, you just have to stay woke!!! EAST puts you in the Breast form when your really up for your hustle!!

8. What's the greatest fear you've had to overcome to get where you are today?
Ans : Being shy unnecessarily lol...sounds funny but that was just my fear, how to over come it cause I never saw anyone as my problem...Nahh no one scares me lol..

9. What's the one thing you'd like to achieve before you die? .
Ans : Going Global!!! It comes with the Full package of Life..




10. Which well- known Nigerian personality would you , without a doubt, be able to beat in a street fight and why?

lol Wahala Dey... the Question could have been ,which art arnt scared of my abilities as a rapper...lol...

FIRS LIFTS RESTRICTIONS ON BANK ACCOUNTS OF ALLEGED TAX DEFAULTERS
source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2019/02/firs-lifts-restrictions-on-bank.html

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has written to banks, directing them to lift the lien on tax defaulters’ bank accounts for 30 days.
The directive, which takes immediate effect, was contained in a letter from Tunde Fowler, the chairman, FIRS, to bank managing directors.
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, The FIRS explained that it issued the directive because of the large number of taxpayers, who have besieged its offices in their bid to regularize their tax positions and the inconveniences they are going through.
In September 2018, Tunde Fowler, FIRS chairman, said the service was going after 6,772 tax defaulters, stating that they would have their account frozen till they pay due taxes.
“So, all these ones of TIN and no pay and no TIN and no pay, to the total of 6772 will have their accounts frozen or put under substitution pending when they come forward,” Fowler had said.
KPMG, one of the Big Four auditors in the world, said on Thursday that the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has gone draconian by giving fiats to banks to freeze accounts of suspected tax defaulters.
KPMG said “nothing in the CITA or FIRSEA authorises the FIRS to impose a freeze order on a taxpayer’s bank account beyond the amount of tax proven to be due and payable by that taxpayer”.
It added that the move was in contravention of CITA, and breaches the confidentiality between the banks and their clients.
“Generally, a bank has a fiduciary obligation to maintain the confidentiality of its customers and their transactions, and to prevent third-party access to the customers’ account information,” KPMG had said.

ELECTION UPDATE : INEC NOT UNDER PRESSURE – REC
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2019/02/election-update-inec-not-under-pressure.html

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said it is not under any pressure from any quarter as far as preparation for Saturday’s election in Adamawa State is concerned.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner, Kassim Gaidam, made this known as he distributed sensitive electoral materials across the State on Friday.
Electoral materials were distributed to the 21 local government areas of the State from Yola, the state capital, amidst very heavy security on Friday.
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that while Speaking with journalists on the exercise, Gaidam said: “Things are going as planned. We have distributed sensitive materials in the presence of the press, local and foreign observers and security agencies. There is no unusual challenge so far. But if any arises, the most important thing is to have good mechanism to address them immediately. We appeal to the people to be solution providers.
“The objective is to succeed in the process and we will try our best to comply with the minimum standard of the commission.”
The Adamawa REC continued: “Our advice to the electorate is to come out and vote for their choice and be law abiding. There will be no VIP treatment for anyone except People With Disabilities, people should be humble at polling units. INEC is not under any pressure from any quarters within and outside the commission. I commend our leaders for being responsible.”
Meanwhile, a member of the European Union Election Observation team sent to Adamawa, Rebekah Palmer, has said that the report of the team on today’s presidential election would be made public on Monday.
Palmer said this on Friday at the office of the Independent National Electoral Commission office in Yola, Adamawa State during the distribution of election materials ahead of the Election.
Palmer said that the EU was aware of the position of the Adamawa as the state of origin of one of the Presidential candidates, Atiku Abubakar, adding that and that the Observer ateam from the EU would monitor the election in the state with assistance from local observers.
Palmer said: “We have 20 teams across the country and we will be sending information from each team and have a collective report which will come out two days after the election. From the report, you can see what happened during the election across the country.
“We have two observers in Adamawa State. I am from Sweden and my colleague is from Bulgaria. But we have local assistants working with us.
“The report will be made public for everyone to see. What we will be doing is to send information from areas where we work to our headquarters so that we can now have one report for the whole country. We will send the report via email to people and it will also be available online for everyone to access it. There will also be a big press conference in Abuja where the head of the team will present our findings.”

cc : seun ,mynd44 , lalasticalala , Fynestboi, MissyB3

SEE THE IKORODU AGOG FOR ASA FESTIVAL 2018
Source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/11/see-ikorodu-agog-for-asa-festival-2018.html?m=1

Residents and visitors of Ikorodu community, Lagos Mainland, should brace up for a fun-filled time in December 2018 as the organizers of the annual ASA Carnival in Lagos State, have announced the date for this year’s edition of the event.

The event billed to hold at the Ikorodu Town Hall, is tagged “Asa-Ere Osupa 2018” and will come up on Saturday, December 8, 2018.

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, According to the handlers of the event, this year’s edition of annual Asa Festival will project the dynamic culture and hospitality of the people of Lagos State in general and Ikorodu division in particular. With the events that would be showcased during the celebration, the festival would linger in the memory of residents and visitors, for a long time to come.

ASA Carnival which is one of the approved annual cultural events of Lagos State government is a traditional cum social festival staged every year to highlight the rich cultural heritage in many towns in Ikorodu Division.

The event is part of the commitment of the State Government to use entertainment as a springboard to drive development and market the state’s potentials to domestic and foreign investors who will contribute meaningfully towards making Lagos a smart city.

Besides entertainment, fun and networking, the carnival will offer upcoming artists and tradesmen opportunities to exhibit their skills and market their products to attendees of the occasion.

MUST READ ; COURT ISSUES BENCH WARRANT AGAINST RAILWAY CHIEF
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/11/must-read-court-issues-bench-warrant.html

Justice Muslim Hassan of the Federal High Court, Lagos yesterday issued a bench warrant for the arrest of the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Mr. Fidet Okhiria, for the alleged disobedience of court order.
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, The court issued the bench warrant for the arrest of the corporation Managing Director consequent upon an application made by Mr. Akeem Aponmode asking the court for an order directing the police to arrest the corporation’s managing director and bring him to court to come and show cause why he should not be committed to prison for the disobedience of court order.
Consequent upon an ex-parte application filed by Mr. Aponmode on behalf of his clients, Alhaji Moruf .K. Salami, Mrs. Uyo Nwajei and Alhaja Aisha Aminu Gwadabe and others against the NRC and four others over attempts to forcefully and illegally acquire their properties without recourse to due process, Justice Hassan had on August 3, 2018 granted an order directing parties to maintain status quo ante belllium pending the determination of the motion on notice.
The Plaintiffs Alhaji Moruf .K. Salami, Mrs Uyo Nwajei and Alhaja Aisha Aminu Gwadabe had earlier filed an ex-parte application before the court against the NRC, the Federal Ministry of Works, Power and Housing, China Construction and Electrical Investment Company Limited, Inspector General of Police and the Attorney General of the Federation seeking among others, an order restraining the defendants from demolishing, damaging, or tampering with properties lying and situate at Block 1 House 1, Block B House 1 and Block E House 2, Adisa Housing Estate 308B, Minerals Mohammed Way, Baba, Lagos pending the determination of the motion on notice filed before the court.
The Plaintiffs are also asking the court to restrain the defendants from disturbing the peaceful possession of the respective Plaintiffs or anyone living with them or their respective properties pending the determination of the motion on notice filed in the suit.
However, on the last adjourned day, Plaintiffs’ counsel told Justice Hassan that despite the pendency of the suit and the order of the court directing status quo be maintained pending determination of the suit, and service of same on the defendants, the defendants continued to take actions inimical to the interest of the Plaintiffs.
Aponmode added that when the Plaintiffs noticed that the defendants have brought in equipment to demolish their properties, the Plaintiffs rushed to the court with Form 48 (notice of disobedience to court order) and same was served on respondents.
“Despite the service of Form 48 on respondents they still went ahead and demolish the properties thereby turning the plaintiffs to homeless people,” Aponmode said.
The Plaintiffs counsel added this flagrant disobedience to court order necessitated the filing of Form 49, committal proceedings against the Defendants.
At the resumption of hearing, on Monday, Aponmode told Justice Hassan that the matter was adjourned on Friday till yesterday to move his application for the committal of the contemptnor.
He, however, said that for the contemptnor not to claim ignorance of yesterday’s proceedings, he took it upon himself to write them notifying them of the proceedings and proof of service filed in court to fulfill all righteousness.
He said the Managing Director was aware of the proceedings and that all conditions for the activation of committal proceedings has been met. “The Managing Director of NRC chose to deliberately disobey the order of the court.”
Aponmode said that the country is governed by the constitution adding that impunity cannot be allowed to be the order of the day.
The legal practitioner, however, said that since the matter was quasi criminal in nature and that somebody’s head can’t be shaved in his absence.
He urged the court to grant an order that the police should arrest the Managing Director of the first defendant and bring him to court so that he can come and show cause why he should not be committed to prison for disobeying the order of the court.
Justice Hassan in his ruling said, ”I have listened to the plaintiffs’ counsel and from the court’s records the defendants were served with the motion on notice, order of the court directing status quo form 48 and 49, yet the first Defendant is not in court with no reason given.
“I have no reason than to accede to plaintiffs’ counsel request. I hereby issue a bench warrant for the arrest of the first Defendant’s Managing Director.”
Justice Hassan added that the Nigerian Police should arrest and produce the first defendant’s managing director in court on the next adjourned date to come and show cause why he should not be committed to prison for disobeying the order of the court. The court consequently adjourned the matter till 10th December, 2018
The Plaintiffs, who are residents of Adisa Housing Estate Multala Mohammed Way, Ebute Meta, Lagos, had earlier approached the court over attempts by the Nigerian Railway Corporation, to acquire their properties without recourse to due process.
The residents said that in as much as they are not averse to government acquisition of their properties for overriding public interest, but that such action should follow due process which should also guarantee their own right to properties.

DISTURBING : MINIMUM WAGE IN COMMON MAN’S SHADOW
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/11/disturbing-minimum-wage-in-common-mans.html

He however expressed dissatisfaction with the leadership of the labour unions. According to him, “The labour union has become politicized, what they are doing is politically motivated. It is all a game plan by the ruling APC to promote their campaign for 2019. If not, why now. The labour union should have been out fighting for the poor man’s interest a long time ago. Like during the fuel hike time, that is when they should have raised their banners if they were truly pro-poor. N18,000 has been lingering for a long time and people have been surviving on it. But nobody cared, it is now they care because they are campaign for Buhari.
Mr Adam Ohiza, said it is a good development but presently, it is not viable especially if one looks at the implication for the economy. “It may lead to inflation in the economy and that won’t augur well for the economy,” he said.
On his part, Shehu Zakari who work with the National Agency for the Control of Aids (NACA), said: “Let’s look at it from two different perspectives, that is, how it affects your life as an individual, before you look at the economy. How does it affect your life? In that regard the minimum wage is well deserved because our country seems designed to favour the wealthy few.
“That is why you see the governors ganging up to say they cannot comply or they will be forced to down size. These governors have been spending massively on their welfare having a multiplicity of aides. So the minimum wage is well deserved. Why is it that in this country everything must be publicized? By the time the government enacts this law, I think the minimum wage will have a ripple effect on the private sector. If it is religiously implemented, the private sector will follow suit.”Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, Mr Mike Golu, a public servant said the Nigerian labour unions have failed the Nigerian workers. “My own personal grieve is that when fuel price was increased from 87 to 145, that was a good opportunity for labour to try to see that it was cushioned for the workers,” he said. “By that time, life drastically changed because virtual everything that you buy at N100, had a price increase of almost 200 percent. For instance, like food stuff which is the common need of everyone, a bag of rice was about N7000 and with the increment in the fuel price, a bag moved to almost up to N20,000 at that time. Then with the exchange rate that affected the economy at that time measures would have been put in place to cushion the effect then, not now when people have already almost gotten used to the situation.“That is why it seems this is all politically motivated. I can assure you that many Nigerians have lost faith in labour. Not that minimum wage is not good, it is good. After every four to five years constitutionally the government need to do something about the minimum wage. The other problem is that inflation will rise.“The mistake has been made, the government through its many anti-people policies have dealt with the common man. There is no more a middle class in Nigeria. The economy is in shambles. Minimum wage is good, there is nowhere in the world that there is no minimum wage.”

HOORAY!!! RELIEF FOR IJORA RESIDENTS; SEE WHY HERE
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/11/hooray-relief-for-ijora-residents-see.html

Succor has come the way of residents of Ijora and adjoining communities on the Lagos Mainland as Nigeria’s Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo has directed Julius Berger, the contractor handling the repair of Ijora Bridge in the Apapa to hasten work on the bridge and re-open it to traffic as soon as possible.
Recall that the Chairman, Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Princess Vicky Haastrup recently alerted the nation that closure of a section of the Ijora Bridge, outbound Apapa, is worsening the already chaotic traffic situation in the Lagos port community.
Speaking on the development, Professor Osinbajo explained that the reopening of the bridge is vital to the free flow of traffic in Apapa and its environ.
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, According to him; “So while we are fixing the roads, if you stand in front of the port, the bridge Julius Berger is building, they opened one half of the bridge and closed the other half, so it is not being used. That bridge must be completed and opened. So one of the things we have done is telling Julius Berger about two weeks ago that they must complete and open up the bridge. Even when the construction of Wharf Road has been completed and the bridge has not been opened, we will still experience the same problem.”
The Vice President blamed congestion on the Lagos port access roads on bad roads and increased cargo volume. “The Apapa port was built to handle 38 million metric tons of cargo and now it is handling 84 million metric tons. So it is too small for the volume that it is handling and has resulted in too many trucks going into the port,” he said.
“When we had the problem the first time and I came to Lagos, we noticed that all the roads around Apapa were bad and we agreed that we will fix the roads. We agreed to fix the Wharf Road down to Mile 2. We have almost completed the road around the port now; then move all the way to Mile 2. We must fix the roads, if those roads are not fixed, we will continue to have the problem,” he added.
Meanwhile, Professor Osinbajo identified road repair, revival of the rail network, and revival of ports outside the Lagos area as long-term solutions to the Apapa gridlock.
“But for long term solution; three things must be done. The first is that now we are building Lagos-Kano Railway and the first phase is Lagos-Ibadan starting from Apapa Port. So many of the goods will be evacuated by rail. The Lagos-Ibadan phase should be completed by January 2019 and hoping to finish construction to Kano in about two and a half years.
“The second is that we have other ports. We have Calabar, which we are dredging to about 10 meters. So we have to make sure we can divert some traffic there. If we can divert some traffic away from Lagos ports it will help but it will not solve the problem completely because 60 percent of business is being transacted in Lagos. So when people import goods to Nigeria they will want to use it in Lagos, which is the problem we have.
“So we do the railway, we will finish the roads and then we fix the other ports; it will definitely make things much better. Once we have completed the railway across the country: Port Harcourt-Maiduguri, Lagos-Calabar, Lagos-Kano; once we fix the railway; railway is the best way to transport goods all around the country, inland port, dry port, that is what we should do.
“Once we fix the infrastructure, the Apapa issue is a small thing because it will boost business, manufacturing activities and people can easily move their goods from one part of the country to another,” Osinbajo added.

Update on 2face brother’s wedding , Charles Idibia and Rosemarie wedding in Abuja
source: http://spotlightafricamag.com/2018/11/10/update-on-2face-brothers-wedding-charles-idibia-and-rosemarie-wedding-in-abuja/

According to Spotlight Media Africa , the entire crew is live at the Abuja venue and it has been reported that the groom and bride is about to leave the hotel .
More details coming soon
#spotlightafricamag

see video on instagram : https://www.instagram.com/p/Bp_t5NIlGV2/

cc: lalasticalala ,mynd44

GOSPEL MUSIC: THE BEULAH QUARTET – KUNINGININGI
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/10/gospel-music-beulah-quartet-kuninginingi.html

The Beulah Quartet Is a Nigerian Based Gospel Acapella Group, Known for it’s Uniqueness and Dexterity,
The team Comprises of Four (4) young music literate,
Udoh Jeremiah- Bass Singer
Ozioma Amadi- Lead vocalist
Okafor Micheal- Tenor singer
Adeyemi adesola- Aalto singer
The group was Founded in 2008 By The General Overseer of The ‘Mountain of Fire And Miracle ministries’ Dr. Dk Olukoya,
The Group has also Shared the stage with Well renounce Gospel Artist both home and abroad
And has also gone forth to collaborate with the 5 Times Grammy Award South Africa Acapella group known as ‘Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Which has brought about its debut Album Titled ‘It’s All About Jesus’
Title of Song: kuninginingi
Meaning: We have come/ we have arrived to take over
It was recorded in South Africa, which featured the legend of the 5 times Grammy award winning Acapella group of the Ladysmith Black Mambazo which goes by the name ‘Joseph Shabalala’

PRESIDENT BUHARI PRESIDES OVER FEC MEETING, SHITTU ATTENDS AGAIN
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/10/president-buhari-presides-over-fec.html

President Muhammadu Buhari is currently presiding over the weekly meeting of the Federal Executive Council.

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, The meeting which started at about 11.01am with Buhari’s arrival is holding inside the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The Muslim opening prayer was said by the Minister of State for Power, Works and Housing, Mustapha Shehuri, while the Christian prayer was offered by the Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung.

Embattled Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, is among council members attending the meeting.

Shittu has been in the eye of the storm over his failure to participate in the mandatory one year service as required by the law.

Based on this, the ruling All Progressives Congress disqualified him from contesting the party’s governorship ticket in Oyo State.

THE DRINKS ARE NOT HARMFUL, I ALSO DRINK IT’ – ‘FAKE’ WINE PRODUCER BEGGED IN IKORODU
source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/10/the-drinks-are-not-harmful-i-also-drink.html

The operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have apprehended one Ifeanyi Udeh, a wine producer in Agbowa community, Ikorodu, Lagos Mainland, for allegedly producing drinks without adequate approval.
The suspect, however, claims the products are not harmful as he also consumes them.
Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, While parading the suspect yesterday, Monday, October 8, 2018, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Edgal Imohimi, said; “He was producing the wines in his one-room apartment without getting the right approval from the concerned authority.”
Udeh who pleaded for forgiveness admitted committing the offence saying; “I would have gotten NAFDAC approval but because I could not afford it, so I decided to do little business to raise money to get the approval.
“The drinks are not harmful, I also drink it and nothing happens to us. The only mistake I made is by not getting the approval, if I am forgiven on this, I will do the right thing and do the business in a legal way.
“I don’t have the means to produce the wines in a big form, so I was doing it in my room. I was arrested while trying to distribute the ones I made.”
The suspect was remanded in custody of the Police as further investigation continues.

NIGERIA PLAN TO RETAIN $14BN YEARLY IN-COUNTRY OIL INDUSTRY SPEND
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/10/nigeria-plan-to-retain-14bn-yearly-in.html

The eventual takeoff of disbursement of the $200 million Nigerian Content Intervention Fund (NCIF), is a major policy implementation that will see the country bring down significant capital flight in the oil and gas sector, writes CHIKA IZUORA. The disclosure by the executive secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Simbi Wabote, of disbursement of the $200 million Nigerian Content Intervention Fund (NCIF) brings a huge relief to local oil firms who have had to grapple with challenges of accessing funds to execute jobs in the industry which is highly capital intensive. Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, The NCDMB and the Bank of Industry (BoI) last year endorsed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), on the implementation of the $200 million Nigerian Content Intervention Fund (NCIF). The MoU, is significant for the oil and gas industry and the Nigerian economy because the NCI Fund has been long expected which is expected to go a long way in addressing the funding challenges which hamper the growth and success of indigenous manufacturers, service providers and other key players in the sector. At the launch of the Fund, minister of state for petroleum, Ibe Kachikwu, observed that over the years, Nigerian companies had found it difficult competing with their counterparts from jurisdictions where funding was accessible for 5 per cent or less as compared to Nigerian market where bank lending rates hover around 20 per cent. Some Nigerian banks are still unable to provide long-term financing required by the local supply chain to build needed capacity and the banks also lack sufficient knowledge of the oil and gas sector, of which the pedigree and operating model of the Bank of Industry (BoI) is expected to close this gap. The exorbitant cost of funds in Nigerian market is partly responsible for the high cost of service delivery by Nigerian Oil and Gas Service Providers (NOSPs) and this feeds into the unacceptable high cost of our crude oil production, Kachikwu said. The NCI Fund is a portion of Nigerian Content Development Fund (NCDF), which was established by Section 104 of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development, NOGICD, Act and is drawn from 1 per cent of all contracts awarded in the upstream sector of the oil and gas industry. Although the board began in 2012 to collect the funds, it has not been very successful with utilising it to support the operations of indigenous service companies in the industry and this has created a lot of frustration among stakeholders who felt that the purpose of the NCDF was not being achieved. The governing council of the board, approved the transaction with an initial outlay of $200 million which is to ensure that a wide spectrum of NOSPs access the Fund, and the board is also desirous of catalysing the growth and development of Nigerian content in all its facets, including manufacturing, asset acquisition, contract financing and contract financing for community contractors. The governing council’s approval is also in keeping with the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan of the Muhammadu Buhari- led administration, which recognizes access to cheap funds as a key enabler for industrialisation. Disbursement of the fund falls within the 10-year strategic plan, through which the board hopes to create over 3,000 jobs in the country, including indirect employment. The executive secretary explained that since the Local Content Act was enacted in 2010, the oil and gas sector had witnessed growth in terms of fabrication activities locally. According to him, prior to the enactment of the act, “out of the about 20 billion dollars, which the Industry spends in its annual activities, less than 3 per cent remained in the country,” adding that with the implementation of the Act, the trend has been reversed with major chunk of industry budget spent in-country. He explained that the aspiration of the Board in terms of its 10 years strategic plan was to have up to $14 billio out of the about $20 billion spent within the country annually, adding that over $5 billion has already been achieved due to policies of the Board. The executive secretary pointed out that the critical success factor of the Board had been the implementation of the Act itself. Wabote said, “The Act has been very critical to the success we have achieved. Prior to now, we practised what we call poles in terms of local content implementation.” Wabote further disclosed that one of the major impediments for most Nigerians in the oil and gas sector was high interest rates which between 15 and 26 per cent. He said the NCDMB, working in partnership with stakeholders; the sector came up with the type of facilities that involved a large range of funding up to $10 million with a single digit interest rate of only 8 per cent. He said, “But aside from that we also have a facility for contract financing for those that have short term contracts to access up to $15 million at the rate of 8 per cent.” Wabote explained that for community contractors, they can access up to $20 million with an encouraging interest rate of 5 per cent that can span up to five years. Currently the Board has received about 100 applications, while three companies he revealed, have accessed the fund. Realising the difficulties experienced by indigenous firms in accessing the fund, the NCDMB, with its partner the Bank of Industry (BoI) have also announced relaxation some of the conditions for accessing the $200 million Fund by qualified oil and gas service companies. The new step was agreed upon at a stakeholders’ meeting convened by NCDMB and BoI, in Lagos recently to address the major challenges applicants face in processing their loan applications. The forum was chaired by the executive secretary of NCDMB, Simbi Wabote, and the managing director of BoI, Mr. Olukayode Pitan, and it drew the participation of 84 delegates from different companies. Both the NCDMB and BoI agreed that “Bank of Industry may consider the inclusion of insurance bonds as collateral for accessing the fund, provided the bonds are issued by competent and major insurance companies qualified by the bank.” There was consensus that BoI should accept other forms of collateral outside of bank guarantees, which are listed against each loan type and applicants that have unencumbered collateral acceptable to the BoI can access the NCI Fund loan without recourse to bank guarantee. A key resolution is that an applicant can access loans for two different categories or product types, subject to the applicable single obligor limit under the scheme. The NCDMB would also consider increasing the single obligor limit for Refinancing from $2m to between $5m and $10m, particularly because many companies that attended the forum have such needs. It was also agreed that there would be no discrimination between international oil companies and national oil companies, rather the history and performance of the Nigerian oil companies would be considered by the BoI when taking a decision. The BoI also committed to standardise the conditions for obtaining bank guarantees from each commercial bank and this shall be issued to each applicant at the point of application to guide and speed up their pursuit of the document. As part of efforts to ease access to the NCI Fund, BoI would no longer insist on appointing a director on the board of borrowers; but would rather place an officer to monitor the project financed by the loan.

I WILL NOT ENGAGE IN PERSONAL ATTACKS’, SANWO-OLU REACTS TO AMBODE’S ALLEGATIONS
Source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/09/i-will-not-engage-in-personal-attacks.html?m=1

In the aftermath of the bold revelations made by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode during his press conference earlier today, Sunday, September 30, 2018 against All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the later has responded to allegations.

Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, Recall that Ambode ripped Sanwo-Olu apart saying he’s unfit to govern Lagos adding that he had a medical history at the Gbagada General Hospital and once has a history of spending fake dollars at a nightclub in the United States of America sometimes ago where he was arrested.

Reacting to the allegations, Sanwo-Olu said he would not engage in personal attacks against Ambode.

Sanwo-Olu added he holds the office of governor of our state in high esteem. I shall never consciously do anything that will undermine the dignity of the office nor will I engage in personal attacks against the holder of that officer.

“I must clear up some inaccuracies in the Governor’s statement. His allegation of that I was arrested for spending fake dollars at a nightclub in the United States was untrue. In fact, the governor knows I travelled to the United States just last month. I would not have been allowed to travel or even get a visa if I had been involved in what the Governor falsely alleged,” he said.

Read the full release below.

TIME TO RESPECT THE PEOPLE OF LAGOS STATE AND THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

Let it be heard by all that I hold the people of Lagos state with great respect and affection. Their welfare is my utmost concern and it is what drives my pursuit for the governorship nomination of the APC.

As such, I also hold the office of governor of our state in high esteem. I shall never consciously do anything that will undermine the dignity of the office nor will I engage in personal attacks against the holder of that officer. My pursuit of office will continue to be based on issues that matter to Lagosians and not on attacks against someone’s character, even when he attacks mine. For anyone to engage in unwarranted character attacks against me, reveals more about that person’s character than it says about mine.

Thus, I felt sad for Lagos as I watched Press Conference by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode. Many things he said was beneath the dignity of our people and the exalted office he now holds. Perhaps the tension and anxiety of the moment got the better of him. If given a chance at a cooler reflection of what he said, I am sure he would regret his descent into such low conduct. In this vein, I forgive him and hope he regains his balance and proper comportment no matter the outcome of tomorrow’s contest. After all, we are both here to improve Lagos not to wrestle in its streets.

However, I must clear up some inaccuracies in the Governor’s statement. His allegation of that I was arrested for spending fake dollars at a nightclub in the United States was untrue. In fact, the governor knows I travelled to the United States just last month. I would not have been allowed to travel or even get a visa if I had been involved in what the Governor falsely alleged.

That the Governor claimed I underwent some unidentified type of “rehabilitation” at the Gbagada General Hospital was also shameless and untrue. Promulgation of salacious rumour should not be part of the job description of a governor.

This is not the stuff of high office. People should question whether itis ethically right for the Governor to turn what should be confidential medical information about a citizen into a weapon of political warfare? But for the avoidance of doubt, let it be stated that I never received any treatment whatsoever at the Gbagada General Hospital.

Today, instead of making a convincing defence of his performance, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode sought to sow fear into the hearts of Lagosians.

But Lagosians are intelligent and brave people. They can see through the smoke and the fog. I am here not to tear my opponent down but to help build Lagos up.

With me, you will hear about progress in education, health, sanitation, proper tax levels, economic development, infrastructure, jobs, public services and other things that enhance the lives of people. I am a serious person and this primary is a serious matter. I have not the time or inclination to attack character when there are so many real issues to address.

We will continue to focus on the issues that matter in the lives of the people of Lagos.

Lagosians want an answer to the sanitation crisis cast loss of jobs caused by Mr. Ambode’s Visionscape misadventure. Our people will want to know why Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode has not been able to build a single General Hospital in the State when his immediate predecessor Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) built 11 General Hospitals.

Lagosians are waiting to hear what our solutions are. They want to know why hundreds of competent civil servants got summarily dismissed and how this has undermined public services.

As a candidate for the party’s nomination and hopefully as your next governor, my approach will not be to sling insults but to propose solutions to the problems of the day.

DONALD DUKE DUMPS PDP, PICKS SDP PRESIDENTIAL FORM
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/09/donald-duke-dumps-pdp-picks-sdp.html


A former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, says Nigeria is still fighting a civil war, adding that 25 per cent of the country is being occupied by terrorists.

Duke said this while picking the N1m Presidential expression of interest form at the national secretariat of the Social Democratic Party in Abuja on Tuesday.



The former governor said, “It is not too difficult to see that the country is falling apart. We like to call what is happening in the North-East a crisis but it is actually a civil war. It has gone on for seven years now.


“It has lasted longer than the Nigerian civil war; it has cost more lives than the Nigerian civil war and it is far more expensive than the Nigerian civil war but because it is somewhere where the media is not very prevalent, we want to believe it is some other country but it is in our country and it is occupying at least 25 per cent of our landmass.

“And 25 per cent of our landmass is far more than what was occupied during the Nigerian civil war. So, it is a fallout of the challenges we have refused to address as a nation.”

Duke said Nigeria needed visionary leadership that would be able to tackle the high rate of poverty and unemployment and also harness the nation’s population effectively.

The former governor, while addressing journalists, said he was a loyal member of the Peoples Democratic Party for 20 years but decided to leave after the party lost focus.

Duke also questioned the decision of the PDP to zone the Presidency to the North.

He said, “I was a member of the PDP but over the years we saw the fortunes and the values of the party dwindle. When a former President walks out of his party, you know there is something. Over the years, you will see that it lost its values and became a shadow of itself.

“That the PDP is zoning today is actually a betrayal of those ideals it started off with because it was a national organisation. Today, in some parts of the country, it is hardly in existence.”

The former governor also berated the All Progressives Congress-led Federal Government for failing to improve the lives of Nigerians.

He promised that if elected as President, he would focus on health, education, infrastructural and technological development and job creation

Also speaking, the Deputy National Chairman of the SDP, Abdul Isiaq, said the SDP would not zone any elective offices.

Isiaq added that the party believed in providing a level playing field for all.

APC PRESIDENTIAL, GOVERNORSHIP ASPIRANTS TO PAY N45 MILLLION, N22.5 MILLION FOR FORMS
source: http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/09/apc-presidential-governorship-aspirants.html


The All Progressives Congress will today (Wednesday) begin the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms to its aspirants for the 2019 elections.


The APC, in a statement on Tuesday, said that during the sale of the forms, which would end on September 10, a presidential aspirant would pay N45m, as against N55m reportedly fixed by the party last week.



With the sale of the forms closing on Monday, it means those seeking elective posts on the platform of the APC have six days to pay the fees. Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, According to the party, each presidential aspirant will pay N5m for expression of interest form and N40m for the nomination form.

It added that a governorship aspirant would pay N2.5m for expression of interest form and N20m for nomination form making it N22.5m.

For a senatorial ticket, an aspirant will pay N1m for the expression of interest form and N6m for a nomination form.

The House of Representatives aspirant will pay N3.85m, including N350,000 for the expression of interest form and N3.5m for the nomination form.

The APC asks a House of Assembly aspirant to pay N850,000, including N100,000 for the expression of interest form and N750,000 for the nomination form.

It, however, gave a 50 per cent discount for female and physically challenged aspirants.

Recall that in 2014, those who sought the presidential ticket of the party paid N27m for both forms (expression and nomination).

Incumbent governors, who ran for a second term paid N10.5m, while fresh aspirants paid N5.5m

Incumbent senators paid N5.3m, while fresh aspirants paid N3.3m. Members of the House of Representatives, who sought re-election, paid N3.2 m, while fresh aspirants coughed up N2.2m. In the 36 states, sitting lawmakers in the Houses of Assembly paid N800, 000, while fresh aspirants paid N550, 000,

Besides the fees, the APC on Tuesday stated that its nationwide congresses to elect delegates would be held on September 12, while on September 13 and 14 appeals arising from the congress would be heard.

It added that from September 15 to September 18, aspirants who had purchased forms would be screened.

On September 19 and September 20, there will be appeals arising from the screening of aspirants to various posts.

According to the APC, its presidential primary would hold on September 20 and its appeals on September 22.

It added that it would hold its governorship primaries on September 25 and its appeals on September 26 and 27.

The APC will hold its senatorial and House of Representatives primaries from September 27 to September 29, while state assembly primaries will take place on October 2 and their appeals

NIGERIA CUSTOMS GENERATES N140.4BN IN AUGUST
source : http://www.eyesoflagos.com/2018/09/nigeria-customs-generates-n1404bn-in.html



The Nigerian Customs service has announced a record revenue generation of N140,415,355,659.97 billion in the month-ended August, 2018 alone. Commenting on what he described as historic feat, comptroller-general of customs, Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali (Rtd) ascribed the result to the “dogged pursuit of the reform programmes which include: Strategic deployment of manpower, upgrade on the electronic systems from Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS I) to NICIS II which has blocked leakages. Eyes Of Lagos gathered that, According to a statement that was issued by the customs’ public relations officer, åçcement of extant guidelines by the tariff and trade department. “Robust stakeholder engagements resulting in higher compliance and increased disposition of officers and men to change the way of doing things for the better,” Attah said in the statement that was issued yesterday in Abuja.He said the implementation of three- pronged presidential mandate of restructure, reform and raising revenue in the customs had continued to strengthen the Service as a crucial contributor to national economy and security. In the last eight months, the Service has made seizures of 156,090 bags of smuggled rice, 15,632 sets of military wears, 489,000 ammunition and other items with the highest monthly revenue collection of over N140 billion in August 2018. “These positive harvests in the areas of anti-smuggling and revenue generation are clear testimony of what can be achieved under a selflessly focused leadership. NCS therefore calls on Nigerians to support the Service by providing credible information that will help nip smuggling at the bud and generate needed revenue for national development,” the customs spokesman said.