₦airaland Forum

The Comptroller-General of Customs, retired Col. Hammed Ali, on Friday donated relief materials to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Edo.
Presenting the materials in Uhogua community, Ovia North East local government area of the state, Ali said this was to improve their standard of living.
He added that the items were made possible due to the mandate given by Mr President, directing customs to transfer relief materials from its various warehouses to IDPs in the country.
“Working with partner government agencies, Customs is executing a Presidential mandate to alleviate the plight of our internally displaced brothers and sisters.
“The scope of our intervention involves transferring of relief items that have been seized and forfeited to Federal Government through appropriate legal processes to the IDP camps.
“It is my pleasure to handover these relief items: 1,897 50kg of rice; 211 25kg of rice; 340 cartoons of vegetable oil; eight jerry cans of vegetable oil in 20 litres, and 33 jerry cans of vegetable oil in 25 litres.
“4,820 cartoons and 32 tablets of Eva and Savon soaps; 100 cartoons of slippers; 16 sacks of school bags and 156 bales of used clothing,’’ Ali said.
He said that the event was the second in the series of donation to be made in the first phase, adding that the flagged off exercise was in Adamawa.
Ali said that the donation has been made to four IDP camps in Yola, including Damare, St. Theresa, Fufore and Malkohi.
Receiving the donations, the Coordinator of the camp, Pastor Solomon Folorunsho, commended President Muhammadu Buhari and the Customs for the kind gesture.
Folorunsho said that the relief materials would go a long way in alleviating the sufferings of the inmates calling for sustainability of the initiative.
“I am proud to be a Nigerian; this nation has the brightest mind in the world.

“The children here are well behaved and are willing to learn; some of them have taken part in WAEC, NECO and JAMB examinations and they did well,’’ he said.

The coordinator appealed for the provision of skills acquisition centre for the adults in the camp, better learning aids and improved shelter.

Folorunsho also commended the wife of the Edo Governor, Mrs Iara Oshiomhole, for her relentless support to inmates of the camp.

Also, Oshiomhole, who is a facilitator in the IDP camp, commended the federal government of Nigeria for the initiative.

She commended the camp coordinator and volunteers working in the camp for rendering humanitarian services to the IDPs.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the National Logistics Committee set up by Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs with a Presidential mandate to donate relief materials to the lDPs witnessed the event. (NAN)

read more: http://tapread.net/2016/02/27/customs-donates-…s-to-idps-in-edo/

EFCC

• More than 40 persons seized in two months
• Commission, auditors to co-operate , fault Asian countries’ stance

EXTENDING the anti-corruption campaign beyond the nation’s borders, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has turned to the global police organisation Interpol for help in tracing and apprehending former government officials who have been indicted for graft.

An official of the commission confided in The Guardian last night that such indicted persons who have left the shores of Nigeria would certainly be caught.

“There is no hiding place. Interpol is helping in fishing them out,” he said.

Meanwhile, no fewer than 40 persons have been arrested in the new anti-corruption drive of the EFCC which started with the arrest of the former National Security Adviser (NSA), Sambo Dasuki by operatives of the Directorate of State Security (DSS), on December 1, 2015.

Same day, he was handed over to the anti-graft commission on allegations of a $2.1 billion and another N643 billion arms procurement fraud.

Also, the EFCC and the Association of Chief Audit Executives of Banks in Nigeria have agreed to improve synergy in the area of financial investigations both in Nigeria and outside the country while decrying the situation where some Asian countries have not been assisting the auditors on such investigations.

In a related development, EFCC says it has the capacity to prosecute everyone so far arrested, quizzed and detained in the on-going arms scandal, adding that some have not been charged to court because the commission is still carrying out investigations.

Interpol is currently on the trail of Abdulrasheed Maina, chairman of defunct Pension Reform Task Team who is alleged to have stolen pension money. He is believed to be hiding in the United Arab Emirate (UAE).

But following President Muhammadu Buhari’s recent agreement with UAE leaders, it is believed that that country would assist in the repatriation of Nigeria’s stolen money and corrupt persons.

Although the anti-graft agency would not specifically disclose the names currently on the Interpol list, an inside source recalled that former Comptroller General of Customs, Abdullahi Inde Dikko and former Special Adviser to former President Goodluck Jonathan on Amnesty Programme, Kingsley Kuku, are currently out of the country.

Former Minister of Petroleum, Diezani Alison-Madueke, whose husband was recently quizzed for alleged money laundering, is also in London, where she is said to be on cancer treatment.

Spokesman for the anti-graft agency, Wilson Uwujaren told The Guardian that some suspects still in detention were being held in Abuja while others were in Lagos. He also gave an indication that the commission had court permission papers to keep holding them so they could help further with the investigations.

Since the EFCC seized Sambo Dasuki, scores of others from politicians to military personnel, to persons in the oil and petroleum industry as well as the media have also been arrested and quizzed.

They include former Air Mashal Alex Badeh, Air Mashal Adeshola Amosu, ex- Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal M.D. Umar; Col. N. Ashinze and AVM A. M. Mamu.

Others are: AVM O.T. Oguntoyinbo, AVM R.A. Ojuawo; AVM J.B. Adigun; and AVM JA Kayode-Beckley; AVM T Omenyi, Air Cdre A.O Ogunjobi; Air Cdre GMD Gwani; Air Cdre SO Makinde; and Air Cdre AY Lassa.

At the Nigeria Air Force (NAF), another $2 billion and N29 billion fraud was allegedly discovered in contract award spending.

The alleged fraudulent contracts include how 10 contracts to the tune of $930,500,690.00 were awarded, payment of N4,402,687,569.41 for unexecuted contracts, procurement of two used Mi-24V helicopters instead of the recommended Mi-35M series at $136,944,000.00, four used Alpha-Jets for the NAF at US$7,180,000.00 funded by ONSA, cannibalisation of engines from NAF fleet to justify procurement of jets, excessive pricing of 36D6 Low Level Air Defence Radar at $33 million instead of $6 million per one and delivery of radars without vital component of Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) that distinguishes between own and adversary aircraft.

Other areas being investigated by the EFCC are the transfer of $2 million to Mono Marine Corporation Nigeria Limited owned by some Air Force officers, N15 billion allegedly lavished on the maintenance of its Alpha-Jets, C-130H aircraft and Mi-24V/35P helicopters, N2.5billion contracts awarded to Syrius Technologies, a Ukrainian company not registered in Nigeria, award of seven contracts worth N599,118,000.00 contracts to Defence Industry Corporation of Nigeria(DICON) but two delivered.

Many of those arrested and being investigated are still in detention; some for more than three weeks.


Others arrested and quizzed got some share of the arms money from the office of the former NSA. They are mainly politicians and media personalities.

They include former Minister of State for Finance, Bashir Yuguda, former governor of Sokoto State, Attahiru Bafarawa and his son, former Minister of Defence, Haliru Bello Muhammed and his son, spokesman of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), Olisa Metuh among others.

The EFCC has also delved into the petroleum sector. While it is gathering evidence in the investigations that involve former ministers of finance; and petroleum resources, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Alison Diezani Madueke, the commission has had to quiz oil magnate, Jide Omokhore from whose company, $1.4 million was reportedly recovered a week ago in oil royalties accruing to the Federal Government.

Acting Chairman of the EFCC, Ibrahim Magu had not long ago, informed the House of Representatives Committee on Financial Crimes that the commission was investigating the former ministers and the petroleum sector. He was responding to a committee member’s question.

On November 2, 2015, the EFCC declared Maina wanted for his alleged role in the fraudulent biometric contracts issued while he held office as the chairman of defunct PRTT. He was initially charged to court on July 21, 2015 alongside former Head of Service, Steve Oronsaye, Osarenkhoe Afe and Fredrick Hamilton Global Services Limited for allegedly stealing pension funds.

On January 6, 2016 the EFCC arrested and detained the first chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), to be questioned in the arms procurement case, a former Military Administrator of Kaduna State, Gen. Lawal Jafaru Isa, who is also a close ally of President Muhammadu Buhari.

Isa, after 18 hours of interrogation was released on an administrative bail after he had paid N100 million of the N170 million he allegedly got from the arms deal. The EFCC statement afterwards read that Jafar had written an undertaken to refund the remainder of the funds he received.

As investigations into the arms deal spread wider, the EFCC arrested a former Aide-De-Camp (ADC) to former President Jonathan), Col. Ojogbane Adegbe, who is alleged to have received N10 billion from the office of former NSA.

The sum, which was allegedly collected in dollars and amounted to $47 million and some Euros, was allegedly for disbursement to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) nomination convention delegates. The money was allegedly got from oil proceeds.

Adegbe is still in EFCC custody, helping with investigations while his alleged accomplice is said to be outside the country.

The military has also announced that 15 officers were last week sent to the EFCC for interrogation after which they would be tried by the military if found culpable by the anti-graft agency.

While some of the suspects were quizzed and granted administrative bail, the EFCC has taken some others to court. They include Bashir Yuguda, Attahiru Bafarawa, Haliru Bello Muhammed, Olisa Metuh and Sambo Dasuki.

Former Comptroller General of Customs, Abdullahi Inde Dikko is being investigated in connection with some corruption charges whose details are still scanty.

Early in January the EFCC searched his No. 6 Ahmed Musa residence in the Jabi area of Abuja. He is believed to be out of the country. Also, former Director General of Nigerian Maritime and Safety Agency (NIMASA) , Patrick Akpobolokemi is being investigated in five different cases by the EFCC.

One of the cases involves a N34 billion alleged scam he allegedly committed with former Niger Delta militant Government Ekpemuopolo known as Tompolo.

Akpobolokemi is also being prosecuted in another case of N2.6 billion alleged fraud, as well as three other cases, all in court. Tompolo has been declared wanted by the EFCC and the police have been on his trail.

Chairman of the Auditors’ Association, Bimbo Dawodu said during a visit to the commission that it had become imperative for the EFCC and the auditors to revive the collaboration they used to have in the past in terms of investigating and prosecuting suspected fraudsters. He noted that the commission in the past, helped with tips on how to handle situations where suspects in fraud cases escaped prosecution.

He also enjoined the EFCC to revive the relationship with the auditors in the area of capacity building and extending such synergy to investigations beyond the shores of Nigeria.

Other members of the association used the opportunity to enlist EFCC’s cooperation in getting other nations to cooperate with the auditors in the area of financial investigations. They named China and some other Asian countries as those which were not cooperating with such investigations.

In response, EFCC Acting Chairman, Ibrahim Magu confirmed that China’s cooperation level was not encouraging. “But we can go either through Interpol or government to government,” he said.
more: http://tapread.net/2016/02/25/efccnigeria_interpol/

The Federal Government has called for the abolition of visa requirement among the members of the Developing Eight (D- Countries Organisation for Economic Cooperation to ensure free movement of people and trade.
The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, made the call when he met with the Secretary General of the organisation, Dr Seyed Ali-Mohammed, on Wednesday, in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the D-8 countries are Nigeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan and Turkey.
“One area that I think D8 must to work on and if really they want to succeed, they must make sure that there is no barrier in term of visa among those eight countries.
“You cannot grow any trade talk less of tourism, if I cannot have easy access to Malaysia, Egypt, Iran, Pakistan.
“You can imagine the volume of trade that will develop over night if only you can make sure that if I want to go to Iran that there is bilateral agreement between Nigeria and Iran, between Nigeria and Pakistan and among those eight countries that there will be free movement of people.
“It is free movement of people that will guarantee free movement of trade.
“So, this is one area that I believe that you need to work hard on.’’
Mohammed, who commended the organisation’s focus on tourism development, said the provision of infrastructure was critical to the development of domestic tourism.
According to him, “until you develop domestic tourism, you cannot have international tourism”.
In his remarks, Ali-Mohammed said the purpose of his visit was to intimate the minister about the organisation’s resolve to focus on tourism development as the area of cooperation among member countries.
“The meeting today I am enthusiastic about tourism.
”Very recently, on the proposal of member states, we came to conclusion that tourism or so could be one of our priority areas.’’
(NAN)
mORE: http://telltimes..nl/2016/02/fg-seeks-abolition-of-visa-requirement.html

Actress/Producer Shan George have thrown more shade to the sound city staff she claimed duped her of 100k, payment meant for Jaga Music Video Promotion. she said
" Lots of young upcoming artists are being swindled in hundreds of thousands of naira by some of these bad eggs working in tv stations lets join hands to stop this talent killers. Umeh is going about saying the 100k I paid him was for him to upload Jaga video on youtube. A video that was promoted online on top sites like Notjustok.com . etc. Why would I pay anyone to upload a video on youtube? Something even kids can post nowadays ?
She described Umehs reply as laughable, saying how on heart could she pay somebody to upload on youtube since she belongs to the entertainment world and has seen it all, youtube is part of her daily life.
screenshot and full story here: http://telltimes..nl/2016/02/shan-george-replies-soundcity-staff.html

President Buhari’s critics have been ridiculing the President for his frequent foreign trips, calling him a “Travel/Touring president”. They fail to appreciate that his visits have positioned Nigeria as the world’s new growth engine
President Buhari had undoubted visited 26 countries since he took charge of the nations number one office where he is successfully discharging his national duties, 2o of his travels across the world are mainly on Finance, Loan and Summit that will enhance and give way for influx of investors into our country, the president is propagating and conveying the new message of change and progress, telling tales of how Nigeria would be the next big hit for investors, he attends summits sourcing investments around the globe, he will bring a return gift of investors for the country in the form of truthful and cheerful plans as he works tiredlessly for Nigeria to become the top destination for foreign direct investment in the world. Buhari emcourages and sponsor made in Nigeria as he calls on exporters to come trade with Nigerians. Already million of foreign capital inflows had been recorded in the last 4 months, Nigeria has surpassed what it used to be before now when it comes to production and industry.
If things continue to go the way it should, Nigeria will be the next big team in the league of best economy with both China and US in inflows this year as it has the potential to out perform others in economic growth and overpower the apparent slowdown in emerging markets. It’s heartening that Nigeria would soon have more than doubled its half-yearly investment levels.
The Buhari Government have truly imbibed the hallmark of its manifestoes of converting adversity into opportunity. Amidst the gloom of global slowdown and the oil market crash, instead of going on the defensive, the president attends high- level international meetings with other countries, stakeholders and experts to deliberate on how to position Nigeria as the world’s next investment destination.
A closer scrutiny of our macroeconomic numbers gives us reason to be confident.
We are the only economy to have 2.50 per cent plus gross domestic product growth rate even in the current turbulent global economic scenario, and this is expected to go higher. Unarguably, we are currently projected to be one of the strongest and fastest-growing economy.
The Finance Ministry have managed the economy astutely and has successfully managed a turnaround in the past few months, exposing fraud and initiating recovery, legalizing TSA.
This also signifies that President Buhari’s initiatives, like the Made in Nigeria and the Digital Nigeria plans, have managed to attract attention. In the coming months, they will generate greater interest among the global investors. Initiatives like the ‘Start-up Nigeria for entrpreneurs, Lagos state govt have already implemented his , Stand up Nigeria’ and ‘Skill Nigeria’ campaigns are bound to enhance entrepreneurship and innovation, and generate employment for the youth.
Financial experts also agree that President Buharis foreign visits have triggered a big positive response from investors globally. His charismatic personality and governance model have galvanised the investment story. Global investors have whole-heartedly trusted the Presidents pitch for a new, developed Nigeria. It will be good if political adversaries back home also support his vision for a new, modern and developed Nigeria.
The Buhari’s Government had in the past 7 months taken several significant measures to improve the ease of doing business and promote investments . President Buhari have expressed his commitment to improving the ease of doing business by building a congenial atmosphere for investment. Rules and procedures have been simplified and a number of products have been taken off the licensing list.
Made in Nigeria initiative aims to achieve the objective by creating an investor-friendly environment, modern and efficient infrastructure, opening of new sectors and forging partnerships between Government and industries. Significant improvements have been made in regulatory environment through deregulation, delicensing and simplification of procedures. An action plan has been proposed for improvement in the regulatory environment.
The Government intends to provide a robust infrastructure to business through the development of various facilities and institutions. The Governmnt are aiming to develop industrial corridors and smart cities to provide a conducive working environment with state-of-the-art technology. Efforts are also being made to provide skilled manpower through a national skill development programmes such as Youwin and much more:
Moreover, environment clearances can be sought online. All income tax returns can be filed online. Validity of industrial licences has been extended. Paper registers are being replaced by electronic documents. The approval of the head of department is necessary to undertake an inspection.
Hundred per cent under the automatic route has been permitted in construction, operation and maintenance in rail infrastructure projects and other projects. The old policy in the defence sector has been liberalised and the cap has been raised from 26 per cent to 49 per cent. Hundred per cent Budget have been allowed in the defence sector for modern technology on a case-by-case basis.
All ministries have adopted a target-specific approach. Each ministry has identified an action plan for the next one year and three years. Twenty five industry related ministries are working on sector-specific targets, which have been identified by them. An investor facilitation cell has been created with a dedicated team to guide and assist first-time investors.
Many ongoing projects, in sectors such as coal, civil aviation, mines, petroleum, power and roads, were pending resolution of issues at different levels. Any stalled projects have been resolved by the initiative of the Government.
In the past two decades, China was the growth engine for the world. However, like many Chinese products, the Chinese engine is getting dated. Nigeria would emerged as the new growth engine
Micheal Adebola Adeniyi
@9jaclicktivist
read more with photo: http://telltimes..nl/2016/02/buharimeter-voice-of-resurgent-nation.html?spref=fb

Wanted former militant leader in the Niger Delta region, Chief Solomon Ndigbara, popularly known as ‘Osama Bin Laden’ has dragged the Federal Government and the Nigerian Army to Federal High Court, sitting in Port Harcourt, seeking to stop further harassment and invasion of his homes by soldiers.
Ndigbara, who went into hiding after the January 11, 2016, invasion of his residences by soldiers from 2 Brigade, Nigerian Army, is also seeking an order of the court to enforce his fundamental human rights.
Speaking to newsmen in Port Harcourt, legal representative of the ex-agitator, Eugene Ode, said: “We don’t even know where he is; he is in hiding for his life. The way his house was invaded and destroyed and his family beaten and battered, it is very obviously that if he was on the spot that day, he probably would have been summarily executed.
“We hear now that the military authorities have placed a bounty on him; he is wanted but there is no allegation whatsoever. They have not made any public statement to say this us what this man is wanted. For us, we think this way beyond the way of the law and we are here to enforce his fundamental human right. Don’t forget, this man is an ex-agitator. He was one of the first to embrace the Amnesty Programme by the late President Yaradua. This man has surrendered.’
read more: http://telltimes..com/2016/02/osama-bin-laden-drags-fg-army-to-court.html

The Northern apex socio cultural group, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and its eastern counterpart, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo have indicated their support for the anti graft war of the current administration and its resolve to battle insurgency.

The two groups also reaffirmed their belief in the unity and corporate existence of the country.

Their position was contained in a joint press statement issued at the end of their meeting in Enugu shortly after the University of Nsukka conferred on the chairman of ACF, Dr. Ibrahim Ahmadu Coomassie (rtd) an honorary doctorate degree of doctor of public administration at its 45th convocation ceremony.

The statement which was jointly signed by the national publicity secretary of ACF, Mallam Muhammad Ibrahim, and secretary general of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Dr. Joe Nwaorgu said the meeting also re-enforced its stand on the peaceful coexistence of its members in any part of the country, better understanding, trust and confidence among all Nigerians.

According to the statement, “Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and Ohanaeze Ndigbo reaffirmed their belief in the unity and corpo rate existence of one indivisible nation.

Dr. Coomassie was honored for his selfless service to the nation not only in his career but as someone who has continued to dedicate his retirement to service of humanity.

Nigeria with Justice, fairness and equity to all.

“We wholly support the war against the insurgency in the Northeast region and commend the effort of our gallant soldiers at the frontline and the encouragement being given to them by the Federal Government.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Governments, people and families of innocent people killed in the affected states and equally sympathized with the displaced persons in the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPS) camps.

read more http://tapread.net/2016/02/23/acf-ohanaeze-ndi…ption-insurgency/ ‎

On the Exchange Rate Table, It Seems The Only Currency we can stand is the Zimbabwe billion dollar note....
see what the giant of Africa is becoming, see the currency higher than that of the giant of Africa as compiled by activist @9jaclicktivist
.. AFRICA currencies
South Africa: Rand 1 = 13 Naira

See list and pictures here: http://telltimes..nl/2016/02/see-list-and-currency-25-african.html

Screen favourites Desmond Elliot, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Patience Ozokwor, Shan George, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde alongside renowned movie director, Tunde Kelani are in the list of the most influential figures in the Nigerian movie industry.

These are some of those that made the my list. The list below is based on factors such as longevity, media following, output, awards and popularity within the industry.

Shan George- Producer/Actress

The British Nigerianborn movie producer is one of the most respected people in Nollywood. Beginning her career in 1996, she has excelled in writing and producing. With provoking and well thought-out plots, she has earned her place in Nollywood as one of the best screen writers. She is the CEO of Shandel Production

Tunde Kelani

Cinematographer, CEO Mainframe Films Globally recognised as a leader of Nollywood, cinematographer Tunde Kelani has seen stars come and go. He’s also made many stars and big hits. But what ensures longevity for him and his Mainframe studios, is a rather rare connection with underdogs; a passion for inserting anonymous characters into leading roles and changing their careers forever. Plus, he brings fading cultural stories into the contemporary space, making films out of independence era literature, and preferring to trade in his native Yoruba. Kunle Afolayan, himself a bonafide leader of the new school will tell anyone who cares to listen, that Kelani is his mentor and master. He’s not alone.

Emem Isong: Producer, scriptwriter

This Akwa Ibom-born movie producer is one of the most respected people in Nollywood. Beginning her career in 1994, she has excelled in writing and producing. With provoking and well thought-out plots, she has earned her place in Nollywood as one of the best screen writers.Isong holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Calabar and a diploma in computer science from the Computer Science Institute (NCR).She runs a film school, Royal Arts Academy, with which she has discovered young actors who are now giving the established ones a run for their money.

Richard Mofe Damijo

Actor Currently on vacation from politics, Richard Mofe-Damijo is working the phones, hoping to get busy with Nollywood again. But he hasn’t had to call much. His number has not stopped ringing since he announced his return. Since he discovered how to use Instagram. Since he decided to keep his beard. The grandfather has been a sex symbol for almost three decades; a charmer for even much longer. He’s the actor other actors want to be like; the brand corporate Nigeria want but can’t have.It’ll take a while for anyone to come close.

Kunle Afolayan: Filmmaker/actor

Now on his fourth film, Afolayan, the son of a film icon, is perhaps the most remarkable name in Nigeria’s contemporary film industry. While still struggling with funds, he’s succeeded where many have failed. And, as his local and international awards will show, he’s plotting a new path for an industry stuck in an era that has passed. Like Kelani, he’s choosy about his stories, finicky about his actors, and ambitious with his projects. If ‘New Nollywood’ was a thing, he’ll be the one running the show.

Genevieve Nnaji Actress

Genevieve does not do as much public charity work as Omotola, her long time archrival. She doesn’t do as many movies as Mercy Johnson, Stephanie Okereke or Funke Akindele. But she is regarded globally as Nollywood’s leading female super star, with a brand apparently bigger than most of her colleagues put together. Careful about her image, and almost snobbish about associations, she’s one of the few Nollywood actresses you may never encounter face-to-face. She spent 2015 repositioning as an executive, with the success of her debut film, Road to Yesterday. It remains whether she will cross into waiting markets in Europe and America. But it shouldn’t matter, if she continues to have nearly 20 million young Nigerians in her palms.

Patience Ozokwor Actress

Patience Ozokwor aka Mama G has perfected the art of playing the role of a villain especially the wicked mother-in-law, so much so that any film she is star in being gentle doesn’t really suit her role.

Ibinabo Fiberesima: Actress, AGN president

The Rivers State-born actress is the first female to lead the Actors’ Guild of Nigeria (AGN). Ibinabo wields uncommon influence and power among Nollywood practitioners. Having done very well being at the helm of Actors Guild of Nigeria for four years, Ibinabo was re-elected AGN president last year.

Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde: Actress

Talented, charming and graceful are perhaps the words that best describe Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, popularly known as ‘Omo Sexy’. The Lagos-born star, who hails from Ondo State, made her debut in Nollywood in 1995. Since then, she has acted in about 200 movies and has endeared herself to producers and marketers. Her star power has seen her snag numerous endorsement deals and even a listing by Time Magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in the world, along with the likes of Michelle Obama, Beyonce and Kate Middleton

Toyin Aimakhu: Actress/Producer

Toyin is one of the highest paid Yoruba actresses on the continent. An interpreter of roles whose talent is never in doubt, Toyin has garnered many fans over the years with her acting skill and good look. She began acting in 2003, when Bukky Wright, a Nigerian film actress, visited Ibadan to shoot a movie. She’s known for blockbuster movies like Alakada, Eta Oko, Iku Doro among others. She’s now built a solid image and following that put her firmly in a position to lead the thousands of actors unsure of how to play in a terribly fragmented ssytem.

Desmond Elliott: Actor, producer, director, politician

Elliot, who is now a member of Lagos State House of Assembly, is one of the prominent actors in Nollywood. Also a producer and director, the Lagos state born actor has prduced several blockbusters under his production company Denziot Productions. He is involved in public relations projects for the Nigerian telecoms giant, Globacom, and is said to be one of Nigeria richest Nollywood actors, making his money from acting, directing, endorsements and advertising.

Charles Novia: Filmmaker, Actor, Writer

He has been a strong pillar in the Nollywood industry. Charles, who is popularly known as Mr. November, has been a major force in both the movie and music industry in Nigeria over the past 15 years, churning out lots of hit movies such as The Bridesmaid, Real Love, Missing Angel, More Than Sisters, You Broke My Heart, A Christmas Passion and recently Alan Poza.Besides making good movies, Charles Novia has also helped in discovering lots of A-list stars in the movie and music industry. They include Desmond Elliot, Grace Amah, Empress Njamah, Caroline Ekanem Danjuma, among others. He also helped in re-engineering the careers of many artistes like Stella Damasus, Kate Henshaw-Nuttal and a host of others, who he reintroduced to stardom through his movies and November Records music label, which was home to Majek Fashek, whose last album Little Patience, was executively produced by Charles Novia and sold over a million copies. He hasn’t done much work in recent times, but he continues to be a powerful voice, using his blog to shape thoughts and perspectives.

Razak Abdullahi: CEO Corporate Pictures

He’s one of the people who call the shots in the Yoruba movie industry. He owns a successful movie marketing outfit, Corporate Pictures and his company has backed several blockbusters. Nearly all films from his stable have won or been nominated for major film industry awards. A veteran by every definition, he’s not just a money man. Those who know him confirm he’s an ideas man, a deals broker, and passionate investor.
read more: http://telltimes..nl/2016/02/elliot-kelani-shan-geoerge-omotola-and.html

On Thursday, 11th February 2016, the Sussex Nigerian Society hosted Professor Isa Hussaini Marte, a Professor of Pharmacology, University of Maiduguri, a visiting Professor, University of Virginia, USA and a Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Science.
In an event titled “Meet the Nigerian Scientist” organised by the Society, Professor Isa discussed with the Nigerian students in Sussex about their discovery of Nigerian traditional herbs that show substantial efficacy against cancer, better than the currently used cancer drugs.
From Right to Left Ag. High Commisioner, Prof. Isa, Prof. Babagana Kolo and Professor Jonathan Bacon Head of School of Lifescience Sussex
He described to our community how he moved to the US in the late 90’s after his Ph.D. and eventually developed to a competent scientist that received over $5 million of research funds for research into cancer.
Prof. Isa came to the University of Sussex on invitation by the School of Lifesciences of the University, to present his team’s discovery of the potential anti-cancer traditional herbs.
On Friday, 12th February, he was received warmly by the Vice – Chancellor of the University of Sussex, the Head of School of Lifesciences and other Professors, following which he was given a gift by the Vice – Chancellor.
Later in the Friday evening, Professor Isa delivered his research findings at the University’s Genome Damage and Stability Centre to experts and young scientists, in a talk that was brilliantly fascinating, titled – “Exploitation of medicinal plant compounds in the search for novel cancer therapeutic agents.”.
His talk explained how his team investigate the scientific rationale for the tradition uses of Nigerian Medicinal plants.
How they now discover novel plants with anti-cancer properties.
Group Photo with Prof. Isa and Head of School of Lifescience after the talk
They have isolated and characterised the compounds from these plant sources and tested them against many cancer cell lines.
He said “We are working to develop cancer therapy from Nigerian traditional plants. We have conducted an extensive screening of many plants with anti-cancer properties, tested them in cell and animal models. Our research has created an evidence base to demonstrate that eight naturally growing medicinal plants in Nigeria have strong anti-cancer properties, especially against breast cancer.”
Professor Isa also praised the “world-class facilities” at the University of Sussex and discussed possible collaboration with the School of Lifesciences regarding research.
The Nigerian Ag. High Commissioner in London, also attended Professor Isa’s research talk and was very impressed that such research is conducted in Nigeria.
He praised Professor Isa and encouraged him to continue his research as it shows promise for solving world problem and positively influences the global reputation of Nigeria.
The Ag. High Commissioner also held a Question and Answer session over Lunch with the Nigerian students in Sussex where he advised them to work hard in their studies and acquire useful skills that can drive the development of Nigeria.
Inspired by Prof. Isa’s talk, the Sussex Nigeria Society have launched a campaign to raise money for the Breast Cancer Association of Nigerian “BRECAN” to help disadvantaged women access free clinical breast examination and towards BRECAN’s awareness-raising campaigns.
Details of Professor Isa’s visit has been published in the weekly bulletin of the University of Sussex “Nigerian High Commissioner & cancer specialist visit Sussex.
http://telltimes..nl/2016/02/nigerian-professor-delivers-ground.html

The Consumer Protection Council (CPC) on Wednesday said MTN had complied with its directive to pay N1.85 million to an allegedly short-changed promo winner, Mr Omeje Fidelis.
This is contained in a statement by the Deputy Director of Public Affairs of CPC, Mr Abiodun Obimuyiwa, in Abuja.
The payment was made following a directive by the council on Feb. 10 that MTN Nigeria Communications Limited should pay Fidelis N1.85 million within 14 days, the statement said.
It said the payment was the balance of the aggrieved customer’s winning in the promotion held in 2012 which the telecommunications company failed to pay.
“MTN raised a United Bank of Africa’s draft in the said sum in favour of the complainant on Thursday, Feb. 11, 2016 barely 24 hours after its receipt of the agency’s order.
“ Fidelis, in a telephone conversation, confirmed to CPC his receipt of the amount, disclosing that he received the cheque for the balance of his N2 million prize on Feb. 15, 2016.’’
The statement said that CPC also received receipt of a settlement agreement made to that effect between the parties in the matter.
According to the statement, MTN’s decision to pay the complainant is in consideration of CPC’s directive and MTN’s concern over the negative implications of the complainant’s claims.
It said CPC gave the instruction because of alleged lack of due diligence displayed in the verification of the winners of the N2 million category of the sales promotion.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalled that Fidelis filed a complaint against the telecommunications giant that he was underpaid after he was declared winner of N2 million in the sales promotion.
Fidelis said he was called that he had won N2 million in the promo and was also invited to the presentation ceremony, which was done on Oct. 19, 2012 at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja.
Fidelis said that during the ceremony, he was presented with a dummy cheque of N2 million with his name on it, interviewed and paraded as a winner of the amount.
He said he was stunned to receive another call from MTN line 180 after the much publicised dummy presentation ceremony that his winning was N150,000.
He said the MTN, thereafter, gave him a Verve ATM card for that amount.
“MTN, in its response to the council’s intervention, denied the claim, saying that Fidelis was informed from the beginning of its communication that his winning was N150,000.
“MTN said the complainant deceitfully presented himself when winners in the N2 million category were called forward on the day of the prize presentation.
“Fidelis’ antics were discovered at the verification of winners, which was done after the ceremony and he was thereafter contacted on his misrepresentation, over which he apologised.
NAN further recalled that CPC, in order to determine the claim of the telecommunication firm, demanded for the call data of the communications between both parties but MTN was unable to produce them.
The Director-General of CPC, Mrs Dupe Atoki, while reacting to the development, welcomed the prompt compliance by MTN.
Atoki said “this underscores the supremacy of the consumer in the market-place”.
She charged business operator to exhibit best practices that would engender value for money for consumers.
http://telltimes..nl/2016/02/4years-after-mtn-pays-n185m-to-short.html

bukola_saraki

Senate President, Bukola Saraki on Wednesday urged members of the State Houses of Assembly in the 36 states of the federation to collaborate with the National Assembly in ensuring the timely amendment and passage of the 1999 Constitution this year.
Saraki stated this when the leadership of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, led by its Chairman, Hon. Ismaila Abdulmumin Kamba, visited him in Abuja, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sanni Onogu.
The Senate President described the amendment of the Constitution as a very important assignment to be carried out by both the 8th National Assembly and State legislatures in order to deepen democracy and move the country forward.
He said it was necessary for the leadership of the State Houses of Assembly to ensure that they make their input into the document when it gets to them without delay and transmit same to the National Assembly for its quick passage.
Saraki said: “I enjoin the State Houses of Assembly to partner with the National Assembly by taking this Constitution amendment exercise very serious in order to start implementing the new Constitution this year. We need to continue to do our best for those that elected us into positions of authority.”
He added that for the impact of the exercise to be felt early enough, “all hands must be on deck to ensure that it is passed this year.”
Saraki assured the State Houses of Assembly of the Senate’s support and encouragement most especially in terms of capacity building and sharpening of their legislative skills to meet international best practices through the capacity building programmes of the National Institute of Legislative Studies (NILS).
Earlier, the Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Hon. Ismailia Abdulmumin Kamba commended the leadership qualities displayed by Saraki so far since his assumption of office.
Kamba who is also the Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, thanked the National Assembly for the trainings organized for its members by NILS which he said has helped to enhance the legislative activities of state lawmakers nationwide.

read more : http://telltimes..com/2016/02/constitution-amendment-saraki-seeks.html?spref=fb

The troops of the Cameroonian Army have handed over two suspected Boko Haram insurgents to their Nigerian counterparts along the nation’s border with the francophone country.
The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, said in a statement on Monday that the troops of 26 Task Force Battalion, and Cameroonian Forces, also rescued 112 captives of the Boko Haram during a joint operation at Kirawa Junction.
He said that the rescued comprised eight men, 36 children and 68 women.
Usman said that the Cameroonian troops also assisted the Nigerian soldiers in de-mining a section of the road between Kirawa and Pulka.


He added that the both armies did not have an encounter with the Boko Haram during the operation.
However, the Acting Army Spokesman said that a Cameroonian officer died, while eight soldiers sustained injuries when their vehicle ran into an Improvised Explosive Device buried along the Pulka-Ngoshe Road.
He said that the officer gave up while he was being evacuated to Douala by air.
Usman also said that the troop of the 113 Battalion on patrol to Ngwala, cleared Boko Haram camps at Ngorta and Aritimie villages.
Usman stated further that the troops seized two vans and 12 motorcycles from the insurgents when they abandoned the items during a raid on a market.
He added that the market suspected to be giving supplies to the Boko Haram had been closed down indefinitely.
“The cooperation with our neighbours has brought renewed vigour and is yielding fruitful result in the fight against the Boko Haram terrorists,” Usman said.
“For instance, apart from recording tremendous success, troops of 26 Task Force Brigade, have married up with Cameroonian forces for joint operations in Kirawa junction.
“Although they have not met any of the terrorists in the axis of advance, they rescued eight men, 36 women and 68 children in the area.
“To further consolidate the cordial relationship, the Commander of Cameroonian 1st Battalion, paid courtesy call on his counterpart, the Commanding Officer of 121 Task Force Battalion in Pulka.
“The visiting unit assisted with the demining of a section of the road between Kirawa Junction and Pulka and handed over two suspected Boko Haram terrorists to the Nigerian unit.”

http://telltimes..nl/2016/02/cameroon-hands-over-suspected-boko.html

A Chinese firm, CCE, handling the Abuja Rail project yesterday told the Senate Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) was that former President Olusegun Obasanjo awarded the contract in 2007 with neither design nor Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The contract was said to have been signed based on uncalculated estimate by the then Minister of FCT and present Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai.
This is coming just as the committee discovered that, while the 60.67 kilometres rails contract was inflated by $10 million per kilometres, the length was later reduced to 45 kilometres without refund of the cost for the 15.67 kilometres dropped.
Accordingly, the Senate committee on FCT chaired by Senator Dino Melaye has demanded that the the sum of 195,878,296.74 dollars, being the amount for the 15.67 kilometres cut out from the Chinese firm be refunded.
CCE’s Project Manager, Etim Abak who briefed members of the committee during their oversight assignment to the project site noted that the contract was signed by the then Minister of FCT without design and MOU.
According to him, the signing was carried out based on what he described as conceptual design.
Abak said, “The contract was awarded based on conceptual design and estimates were not properly done. There was no formal design submitted and rail bridges and crossover bridges were not captured in the contract”.
The committee chairman, Senator Melaye said from his findings, the rail project was inflated by over $10 million dollars per kilometre, just as he wondered why the handlers of the project would commit such a corrupt act.
He the whole project was shrouded in fraud, adding that the contract sum was $841.645,898, with a project completion period of 48 months, while the scope of work was 60.67km standard gauge, with double railway tracks and associated permanent way within FCT.
Melaye marveled that the project, which length initially stood at 60.67 kilometres, was later reduced to 45. 245 kilometres without reduction in the cost of the project initially paid for.
He said, “Now, you have reduced the length of the kilometre standard gauge from 60.67 kilometres to 45.245 kilometres, meanwhile, there is no concomitant reduction if you juxtapose the length of kilometres and the reduction in terms of the cost.
“If we are to spend 841 million dollars for 60.67 kilometres and now you have reduced to 45.245 kilometres and the only reduction in terms of monetary value is from 841.6 million dollars to 823 million and with reduction of just about 17 million dollars, that to me is not commensurate to the reduction in terms of length, ” he added.
“The Federal Government has so far invested 31.5 billion dollars and another 7.6 billion from the SURE-P fund and if you put these together, we have altogether 39.1 billion dollars invested in the rail project, leaving the balance of 113. 233,155.32 dollars. The sum of three billion dollars proposed in the 2016 national budget of the FCT for the rail project.
“If you look at this, I would want to say that I did a personal research and looked at rail construction of the same specifics, of the same technology across the globe and one cannot but complain that this railway project in Nigeria is on a very high side.”
The committee chairman wondered why it cost the federal government so much money to construct a railway of just 45 kilometres, unlike the construction of the same specifics across the globe.
He questioned the rational behind the government’s loan of $500 million from Exim Bank of China for the project, saying the money the federal government had so far injected into the project was far enough to execute the entire project.
His words: “From my own calculation, in fact, from my comparison with other rail projects across the world, the federal government investment in this project is enough to execute the project without taking a loan as high as 500 million dollars from China. From our research and it’s very simple, the world is now a global village.
“As you are sitting here now, on your phone you can google, even in India and Egypt. Fortunately, one of those projects in Zambia was also done by this same company, CCE. We have six countries and the average cost per kilometre, non is above four million dollars per kilometre. Why is the Nigerian project is costing 13.8 approximately 14 million dollars per kilometre”.

http://telltimes..nl/2016/02/how-obasanjo-awarded-abuja-rail-project.html

Innocent Idibia, popularly known as Tuface seems to be ‘hot’ at the moment as he keeps releasing songs at short intervals. Shortly after releasing Coded Tinz featuring Phyno and Chief Obi some days ago, 2baba has dropped another single titled Officially Blind.
Explaining how they arrived at the single, the producer of the new song, Benjamin Spellz, told Saturday Beats that the song was a spontaneous one.
He stated, “I was supposed to work with 2baba that day, but after I set up the studio, he became restless. We decided to take a drive and I brought out a CD containing some of my beats. When it got to a particular beat, 2Baba started singing to it. AJ, his cousin who was with us, followed up with a chorus and I tried to put in harmony into it too. That was how we began to write the song while driving. I was at the passenger side and AJ was behind 2baba. We immediately entered the studio, worked on the song and I gave it to him.”
Spellz, who is getting married on February 21, described the song as a love song that represents everything 2baba stands for since the days of Plantashun Boiz.

“I believe the song would make a big impact as time goes on. Aside being a producer, I am a big fan of 2baba and Plantashun Boiz. I recently played it for Faze and he loved it. This is the original sound of Tuface; if you love Tuface Idibia, you would love Officially Blind,” he said
Source: http://telltimes..nl/2016/02/tuface-wrote-his-new-hit-song-while.html

The Federal Government’s savings as a result of the removal of subsidy on both petrol and kerosene are growing daily.

Between January 1 and February 12 this year, an interval of about six weeks, the Federal Government made over N18.3bn as savings from the removal of subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit and House Hold Kerosene.

The government officially stopped subsidy on PMS, popularly known as petrol, on January 1, 2016, while on January 23 this year, it also ended the subsidy regime on kerosene, according to the pricing templates for both commodities obtained from the Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency.

The PPPRA is the agency of the Federal Government that fixes and regulates the prices of the white products, PMS and HHK, as well as other refined petroleum products across the country.

It unveiled its revised PMS template on January 1, 2016 while that of HHK was posted on January 23, a development that showed that the Federal Government now makes extra cash daily from every litre of petrol and kerosene sold across the country.

The PPPRA occasionally updates the templates for both commodities to reflect fluctuations in the global prices of crude oil.

An analysis of the various updated templates so far released by the agency after they were revised showed that the Federal Government had raked in over N18.3bn in six weeks.

For instance, in the recent template for PMS, which was posted on the PPPRA website on February 12, the government made a cash recovery of N15.23 on every litre of petrol sold in the country.

On petrol alone, about six templates had been released by the regulatory agency, beginning with the one posted on January 1 this year, which confirmed the stoppage of petrol subsidy and showed an over recovery of N1.4 per litre of PMS.

Other templates were posted on January 11 and January 20, as well as on February 6 and February 11, while their over recoveries were N4.7, N7.49, N10.5, and N16.06 per litre, respectively.

Therefore, on the average, the over recovery for PMS since January 1 this year is N9.23 per litre.

According to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, about 40 million litres of petrol are being consumed daily in the country.

When multiplied by the average over recovery on the product and the number of days (January 1 to February 12), the result shows that the government must have made extra cash of N15.88bn from the sale of petrol alone since the halt of subsidy on the commodity.

In the case of kerosene, findings by our correspondent showed that an average over recovery of N10.25 was made by the Federal Government on every litre of HHK sold since January 23, when subsidy was officially removed on the product.

So far, about four updated templates have been posted by the PPPRA for kerosene. They were posted on January 23, January 30, February 11 and February 12, 2016, while their over recoveries per litre were N10.72, N6.3, N12.51 and N11.47, respectively.

According to the Pipelines and Product Marketing Company, a subsidiary of the NNPC, Nigeria consumes about 11 million litres of kerosene daily.

By multiplying the average over recovery on HHK with the volume consumed daily, it shows that about N2.4bn has been saved by the government since subsidy on kerosene was officially removed on January 23 this year.

The NNPC is the major importer of kerosene in the country, as most marketers have yet to venture into the business due to the fact that the HHK market was only deregulated recently by the government.

The summation of the amounts saved on both PMS and HHK shows that the Federal Government must have recovered over N18.3bn on the products since they were officially deregulated.

On how an over recovery is arrived at, taking a look at the recent template posted on February 12, the PPPRA stated that the Expected Open Market Price for PMS was N71.27 per litre, whereas the retail price was N86.50 per litre in non-NNPC filling stations.

Petrol price is N86 per litre at fillings stations run by the NNPC.

While the EOMP is the actual cost of the commodity, the difference between it and the retail price as sold at filling stations is the over or under recovery. But since the halt in subsidy payment, the government has been making over recoveries on both PMS and HHK.

The EOMP is the summation of the landing cost of the commodity and the subtotal margins like bridging fund, transporters’ cost, dealers’ charge, admin charge etc.

The February 12 PMS template puts the commodity’s price plus freight cost per litre at N52.11; lightering expenses, N2.02; Nigerian Ports Authority fee, N0.36; jetty throughput charge, N0.6; and storage charge, N2.

Others under the distribution margins are retailers’ cost, N5; transporters’ charge, N3.05; dealers’ fee, N1.95; bridging fund, N4; marine transport average, N0.15; and admin ch

arge, N0.15.

When summed up, an EOMP of about N71.27 was obtained, in contrast to a retail price of N86.5, leaving an over recovery of N15.23.

Officials at the PPPRA as well as those at the NNPC explained to our correspondent that the over recoveries from both PMS and HHK would be saved by the government and used to fund future subsidies if the need arose.

When asked to speak on the extra amount being paid by consumers for the commodities, the Group General Manager, Corporate Planning and Strategy, NNPC, Mr. Bello Rabiu, told our correspondent that the negative subsidy would be remitted to the Petroleum Support Fund in line with the PPPRA guidelines.

“The savings under such a regime could be domiciled in the PSF as a buffer to fund future subsidies (if any) that may arise during high oil price regime or invested by the industry in supply and distribution efficiency improvement projects such as the decongestion of the Apapa area, Single Point Monitoring in Port Harcourt and Warri, complimentary rail services, inland waterways, etc,” he said.

Source: http://www.punchng.com/subsidy-removal-fg-saves-n18-3bn-in-six-weeks/

2016 Budget Presentation by President Buhari
Indications emerged yesterday that the National Assembly may have rescinded its decision to indefinitely suspend its passage of the 2016 budget.

While the leadership of the House of Representatives has expressed optimism that the 2016 may be passed into law as anticipated on Thursday, February 25, 2016, the leader of the Senate, Ali Ndume, said yesterday that the Senate was striving to pass the 2016 budget before the end of March.

Ndume also said, contrary to reports in the media, that at no time did the Senate indefinitely suspend its passage of the N6.08 trillion 2016 budget, explaining that the Red Chamber only said that the February 25 dateline earlier given “may not be feasible.”

Concerns have continued to persist over the accuracy of the fiscal document alleged to have been seriously ‘padded’ and replete with errors.

After the first reading of the budget at plenary, both the Senate and the House of Representatives had fixed February 25 for the passage of the budget, soon after defence sessions with the various ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) at the committee level may have been concluded.

But the National Assembly last Tuesday announced that the February 25 deadline it gave for the passage of the budget estimates was no longer feasible due to inherent errors, ambiguities and phoney figures (padding) smuggled into the fiscal document.

Chairmen of Appropriation Committees of both chambers, Senator Danjuma Goje and Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin, noted that they had postponed passage of the budget indefinitely due to gross errors already identified in the entire budget estimates at both chambers.

But in what apparently looks like an about turn, the House of Representatives said at the weekend that it was working closely with the executive arm of government to ensure the speedy passage of the budget as planned.

Spokesman of the House and chairman of the Standing Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Abdulrazak Namdas, who hinted this during his weekly press briefing at the weekend in Abuja, however, asked Nigerians to show understanding if the February 25 date is not achieved.

He said, “As regards 2016 Appropriation Bill, I want to state here that the 25th February dateline earlier suggested may or may not be achieved. We admit that there are issues that have come up in the budget, but the leadership of the House is working very hard in collaboration with the Executive to ensure that the dateline is achieved; but if it is not (achieved), Nigerians should show understanding.

“However, Standing Committees have been urged to stick to the timelines for interaction with the MDAs and submission of reports to the Appropriation Committee,” Namdas said.

In the same vein, Senate Leader, Ali Ndume, said that the Senate did not suspend its passage of the budget indefinitely, but only said that the February 25 deadline earlier given may not be feasible.

Speaking in Abuja yesterday, Ndume stated noted that since March is the deadline for the implementation of the 2015 budget, the Senate working hard to pass the 2016 Budget before the end of March.

The Senate leader explained that although it was the wish of the National Assembly to pass the budget five weeks before the expiry of the period set for the implementation of the 2015 budget, it may not possible due to some errors.

“We have not postponed it indefinitely; we are saying that with the developments that we are seeing as the time goes on, the 25th February deadline we gave ourselves may not be realistic.

“That is why we now said that, going by this, it is not possible to say we will come back on 25th and say this is the budget; we are not saying that we have suspended it indefinitely. The reason we fixed 25th was because we wanted to have a gap of five weeks,” he said.

According to him, the gap would have enabled the Senate to fix whatever issues that needed to be handled before the March 31 deadline for the implementation of the 2015 budget.

Ndume further stated that the leadership of the National Assembly had met with ministers to iron out the grey areas and make corrections to them.

Promising that the Senate would ensure strict compliance with the implementation of the budget, the leader said once funds were available, he was convinced that the present administration would ensure a thorough implementation of the budget.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has refuted a report by an unknown media outfit alleging fraudulent activities by members of the National Assembly in the handling of constituency projects between 2013 to 2015.

Spokesman of the House, Abdulrazak Namdas, told journalists at the weekend that the report was “unfortunate,” and that the outfit does not actually understand what constituency project was all about.

He said, “It is obvious that the media support centre does not know how constituency projects are managed. Lawmakers are never given a penny to carry out constituency projects. Constituency projects are appropriated to the relevant MDAs. No cash is given to a lawmaker.

“Therefore, to say lawmakers diverted monies meant for constituency projects demonstrates not only lack of understanding of constituency projects, but also a desperate attempt by few individuals to set lawmakers against their constituents.”

Namdas assured that the 8th House of Representatives will do things differently, including ensuring that constituency projects get to the people, adding that the present 8th House of Reps has zero tolerance for corruption.



Civil servants responsible for budget padding – Gbajabiamila

Meanwhile, the Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, has absolved President Muhamadu Buhari of any blame in the controversy surrounding the preparation of the 2016 budget estimates.

Rather, he said the bureaucrats, made up mostly of civil servants, should take the blame for the apparent inconsistencies, padding of figures and duplications in the fiscal document.

Gbajabiamila made this comment while interacting with a delegation of the National Association of Nigerians Students (NANS) from the South-West geopolitical zone, who had come to honour him in Abuja at the weekend.

When asked to clear the air on the controversies surrounding the proposed 2016 budget, the House Leader noted that those who had be given positions of trust and saddled with the responsibility of the budget job at various levels had betrayed the trust of the president; hence Buhari is not to be blamed but the civil servants.

He said, “First of all, I’m going to absolve the president, but I’m not going to absolve the people that did it. Why I must absolve the President I will tell you. The job was done by civil servants; it has always been done by civil servants. The president does not sit in a ministry; he doesn’t know what’s going on in a ministry or what they need or do not need.

“The argument can be that the buck stops at his desk – I agree with that; he must take responsibility. But the point is that he delegated (the task). Under the Constitution, he has the right to delegate his work to ministers, and he delegated the issue of budget and planning to the minister of budget and planning.

“And once you delegate, the assumption is that you’re doing the work of the President, and that’s what delegating power means. It’s in the Constitution and that’s what he’s done.

“Where I think the ball was dropped, I think it was with the minister of budget and planning; because after the civil servants, whether intentionally or not intentionally, did what they did, it was for the minister of budget and planning to vet and scrutinize those things before coming to the House, or the National Assembly. It’s not for the President to do,” Gbajabiamila said.

He assured the students that President Buhari was on top of the situation.

“Don’t forget that the President was the first to raise the alarm – that it looks like there is a budget mafia,” he said.

“I’m sure things we get better as we move along. The problem of Nigeria is multi-faceted. The President is dealing with one thing and he expects that the people he has appointed should able to deal with other things.”



2016 Budget Funding: Falana to sue FG over foreign loans

For failing to respond to a letter in which he advised President Muhammadu Buhari not to borrow $3.5 billion to finance the 2016 Budget and to recover the outstanding loans and accrued revenues payable to the Federation Account, human rights activist, Chief Femi Falana (SAN), has threatened to drag the federal government to court.

Falana, in a letter dated February 12, 2016 and addressed to the Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun, said he would commence legal proceedings not later than February 29, 2015 with a view to compelling the federal government to recover loans, royalties levies and other recoverable revenues payable to the Federation Account, which is not less than $66.5 billion.

The one paragraph letter reads: “Since you have not deemed it fit to react to the serious issues raised in the letter, kindly be informed that we shall commence legal proceedings not later than February 29, 2015, with a view to compelling the federal government to recover the said loans, royalties levies and other recoverable revenues of not less than $66.5 billion.”

LEADERSHIP recalls that the lawyer had, in a letter dated February 5, 2016, and also addressed to Mrs Adeosun, urged President Buhari to jettison the plan to take a $3.5 billion loan to finance the 2016 budget from the World Bank and the African Development Bank (AfDB) due to the unpalatable conditionalities attached to it.

He had urged the government to rather recover outstanding loans and accrued revenues payable to the Federation Account and use same to fund the budget.

The lawyer said that the hapless Nigerian people should not be made to pay for the gross mismanagement of the national economy by the federal government and the profligacy of the pampered members of the ruling class.

According to him, instead of taking a loan of $2.5 billion with dangerous conditionalities from the World Bank, the federal government should recover the aforesaid loans and revenues of not less than $66.5 billion with the assistance of the anti-graft agencies.

Falana gave the details of the said recoverable loans and revenue as:

“From five cycles of independent audit reports compiled by the National Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), the potential recoverable revenues payable to the Federation Account are not less than $20,221,018,007.00, or approximately $20.2bn).

“The potential recoverable revenues are said to have arisen from “underpayment/underassessment of taxes, royalties, levies and rents. If you require more information in respect of this matter you may wish to contact your colleague, Mrs Zainab Ahmed, the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning. In her capacity as the immediate past executive secretary of NEITI, she had called on the federal government to recover the said sum of $20.2 billion.

“On October 4, 2006, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) apportioned $7 billion to 14 Nigerian banks to “manage” out of the nation’s external reserves, which stood at $38.07 billion, as at the end of July, 2006. The amount involved represented 18.39 per cent of the total external reserves at the material time.

“In addition, following the crisis of global capitalism, which occurred in 2008, the CBN gave a bailout of $4 billion (N600 billion) to the commercial banks in the country. The CBN has not deemed it fit to ask for the refund of the total sum of $11 billion injected into the banking system in the space of two years.

“On September 6, 2015, the Presidency announced that the management of the NNPC had commenced the process of recovering of the sum of $9.6 billion in over-deducted tax benefits from joint venture partners on major capital projects and the legacy OPA/SWAP oil contracts.

“A fortnight ago, Mr Abubakar Malami, SAN, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, disclosed that the federal government had concluded arrangements to recover an additional $750 million of the Abacha loot.”

Falana also noted that the ongoing Senate probe into the affairs of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) had revealed that the corporation had accumulated over $25 billion (about N5 trillion) debts, a violation of its Act which put the debt ceiling at N800 billion.

He recalled that AMCON’s managing director, Mr Ahmed Kuru, had stated that most of the debtors of AMCON were ‘big men who fly in private jets, live in big mansions and they have taken money and they are not paying back.’

Falana continued: “Having regard to the fact that the International Monetary Fund (IMF), whose endorsement is required for the World Bank loan of $2.5 billion, will insist that certain unpalatable conditionalities be imposed on the people of Nigeria, we urge the federal government to jettison the plan to take the loan.

“While acknowledging the concerted efforts to recover the looted wealth of the nation through the anti-graft agencies and the Arms Procurement Panel, the Buhari administration should embark on the immediate recovery of the aforesaid loans and accrued revenues with a view to financing the 2016 budget and the infrastructural development of the nation.”

He reminded the federal government that when Nigeria paid $12.4 billion to exit the London/Paris Club in 2005, it had assured the Nigerian people that the $2.1 billion the country paid annually to service the Paris Club debt would be made available to fund critical priority sectors such as education, health, etc, and stimulate the economy.

According to him, not only have the critical sectors been neglected, but the federal government has further plunged the country into indebtedness, with Nigeria currently indebted to the tune of $64 billion; yet it is seeking another loan of $2.5 billion from the World Bank and $1 billion from the AfDB to fund the 2016 Budget.

Source:

http://leadership.ng/news/501366/nass-makes-u-turn-passage-2016-budget

The Federal Government College Ilorin Old Students’ Association (FGCIOSA), has applauded the plan by the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, to recruit about 500,000 teachers for primary and secondary schools in the country.

National President of FGCIOSA, Mr. Gbenga Olaniyan gave the commendation at the weekend while speaking on the sideline of the 5th annual general meeting (AGM) of the association in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.

Olaniyan, however, said majority of those that would likely go for the teaching jobs might do so due to unemployment and not necessarily because they loved teaching, and expressed the worry that they might cause more harm than good to the schools at the end of the day.

He said, “Well, two things, for some people, the problem is that they don’t have teachers; for others, it is the quality of the teachers. So the decision of the Federal Government to recruit more teachers will solve the first problem, which is the teachers in terms of numbers. But then, we don’t know where these teachers are gotten from.

“It could be people who are out of school and don’t have jobs, and are not really interested in teaching. By the end of the day, might do more damage than good, because they will just be doing the job while looking for another job. But seriously speaking, I think it is a good step because it is better to do that than sit down and do nothing.”

The FGCIOSA President decried the dropped in the quality of teachers in unity schools and other government owned secondary schools in the country, saying the best of the teachers have been attracted to private schools that pay higher salary.

Olaniyan said, “Speaking generally, in my own opinion and the opinion of a lot of educational consultants is that the quality of teachers has dropped. We are concentrating on the secondary education here.

“The quality of teachers has dropped mainly in the schools that are at the lower end, that the less fee paying schools as well as the Federal Government Colleges, because a lot of schools that have very high fees are taking away a lot of these teachers. They are able to attract the very best, leaving behind just those who are really not the best in class.

“Secondly, even the schools themselves, because I now want to compare the Federal Government College and the private schools. Even the schools themselves are not attracting the best candidates. If you have somebody who is normally a student that is below average, he is not like going to have a distinction, but you can push to be above average and when these are the students attracted to the Federal Government Colleges, then you know it defeats the purpose.

“By and large, the main problem is the quality of the teachers and even what is happening in Nigeria now where teachers don’t concentrate. They leave school and they are going to do another job; they are patching up with two jobs. So, by and large, this is definitely affecting the education system.

Source: http://tapread.net/2016/02/14/association-lauds-fg-over-plan-to-recruit-500-000-teachers/

Master Bakers in Kogi have resolved to hike the price of bread and other confectioneries in the state in response to high production costs.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) gathered that the decision was reached at a recent meeting of the state chapter of the Association of Master Bakers and Caterers in Lokoja.

Chief Gabriel Bamidele, chairman of the association in the state, told NAN in an interview on Saturday that as a result of the increase in the price of baking items, his members were left with no other choice.

Bamidele hinted that the bakers had been incurring losses in recent times, adding that unless there was price increase, many bakeries in the state would be forced out of business.

He said that given the present situation, there was no going back on the decision as they could not afford to continue operating at a loss.
“The decision became expedient given the fact that prices of items like flour, sugar, yeast, vegetable oil and other items required for baking have skyrocketed.

“The truth is that many of us have been merely struggling to stay in business. Our profit margins as bakers are increasingly getting slim.
“The only way to remain in business is to have marginal increase in the price of our products”, he said.

On the percentage of the expected increase in price, Bamidele declined to be specific but assured that it was not going to be significant.

He said that it would not go beyond the reach of the common man, adding that unreasonable price increase would have an adverse effect on their market.

He said that Kano State branch of the association only recently embarked on strike action and caused scarcity of bread in the state, but added that Kogi bakers did not consider the Kano option as feasible. (NAN)http://tapread.net/2016/02/14/bakers-to-increase-price-of-bread/

PLANS to mark the first year anniversary of Governor Akinwumi Ambode is being organised by the Nigerian Wrestling Federation with an intercontinental professional wrestling championship as he clocks one in office by May.

The championship, tagged A+A Intercontinental Wrestle Force, is being put together by the Nigerian Wrestling Federation (NWF) in alliance with the Current World Wrestling Federation.

According to the NWF’s president, Prince Olarenwaju Mohammed, the fiesta is being planned to further project the good governance of Ambode’s administration to the outside world.

“Our plan is to project Lagos to the outside world that the state is peaceful despite all the negative reports in the international media. I always tell people that we cannot quantify the benefits of staging international competitions in our community like the recently held Lagos City Marathon.

“We have invited renowned wrestling champion, Hulk Hogan and Undertaker to be part of the show. Hogan specifically told us that he would like to come to Lagos once in his lifetime to see how the city looks like,” he said.

Mohammed, an ex-Nigeria and intercontinental wrestling champion, said wrestlers from different parts of the world would be in Lagos for the show that will hold in 14 centres in the three senatorial districts of Lagos.

“The reason we are having the championship in multiple centres is to bring wrestling closer to the people at the grassroots. We want our people to see those wrestling stars who they normally watch on television live at their domain.

“These centres include Epe, Alimosho, Badagry, Ojo, Ikorodu, Ikeja, Ifako Ijaiye, Agboyi Ketu, Eti Osa, Oshodi Isolo, Yaba-Mainland, Lagos Island, Surulere, while the grand finale will hold in Agege,” he said.

Chairman of the Publicity Committee, Alhaji Abiodun Salami, said that between now and May when the competition will hold, series of activities have been lined up to ensure a smooth organisation of the championship.
http://tapread.net/2016/02/13/hulk-hogan-to-storm-lagos-as-nwf-marks-ambodes-one-year-in-office/

SENATE President, Dr. Bukola Saraki and the United States Embassy in Nigeria on Thursday condemned the recent suicide attacks by members of Boko Haram on the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Dikwa community of Borno state in which about 51persons including women and children were killed and 78 others were injured.

Saraki, in a statement by his Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, in Abuja, described the new upsurge in attacks carried out by Boko Haram as both condemnable and unacceptable. He therefore, urged the military to beef up security in all IDPs’ camps.

While sympathizing with the victims of the attack, the Senate President also advised the security forces to step up their intelligence gathering activities in order to prevent future attacks on defenceless citizens and IDPs.

“My heart goes out to those that lost their lives and loved ones in this tragic event of Tuesday in IDPs’ camp in Dikwa, Borno State.

“We cannot continue to live in fear and agony of insurgency in our father land. The government is doing its best and likewise, our security forces are doing striving hard and we sincerely acknowledge their efforts so far. We can feel the positive impact and effects. But as a country, we need to do more. Our call, goes to the world powers, to come to our aid. We need help regarding terrorism. “ Saraki pleaded.

In a statement signed by the US Diplomatic Mission on Thursday, in Abuja, the U.S. government’s restated that it will continue to support Nigeria governments fight against terrorism.

The statement which expressed the American government’s deepest condolences to the families of the victims read, “The US Embassy condemns the reported suicide attacks on internally displaced persons in Dikwa town, Borno State that occurred on February 9.

“The US remains committed to assisting internally displaced populations in North-Eastern Nigeria through humanitarian relief efforts.
“We will also continue to support the Nigerian government in its fight against terrorism” the embassy stated.
Read More: http://tapread.net/2016/02/12/saraki-u-s-condemn-boko-haram-attacks-on-dikwa-idps-camp/

Nigeria’s is estimated to have about 180 million people while about 45 percent of the Nigerian population currently live below the poverty line, or the income level needed to make a bare-essentials living in Nigeria. This figure depends on a number of factors, below poverty income is currently calculated to be an annual income of N300,000 for a family of four.
The social economic classes define how far the economy is growing and how pronounced the poverty rate in Nigeria is. Below is a statistical survey.

The Lower Class
This is primarily comprised of lower-level citizens, white-collar workers. These workers are typically not educated, and lack the graduate degrees needed to advance to higher levels of employment, or have a degree but remain unemployed but manage to put food on its table. Income for these workers generally falls between N160,500 and N1m. 45% Nigerians are in this category.
This category is trapped in the poverty rate of 45%.

The Middle Class
They typically have post-graduate degrees and work at high-level, white-collar positions. They are mostly civil servant, traders and vocational professional: Household income for these workers is often above N2m naira annually. According to statistics, we have 15% Nigerians in this category.

The Upper-Middle Class
This professional class workers, earn enough to be in the top one-third of Nigeria’s incomes.
They earn above N6m naira annually, Nigeria have 15% of this category.

The Upper Class
This income level is what is commonly called the “High Class,” or the 4 percentage of Nigerians who make more than N10m naira annually. we have about 4% in this category.

At the top of his economic ladder is the so-called “1 percent,” or households that earn more than N20m annually.
This category is mainly occupied by Politician and Business Moguls
Minimum wages in Nigeria is N18,000. This social economic Class estimate was based on Nigeria’s N4.69Tn naira National budget for 2014, it is imperative that the management of national wealth and the reduction of poverty are the key questions of political economy all over the world today, Nigeria have to do more to bring its people out of poverty rate.

Lai Mohammed Disowns Ministry’s N398m Votes For Computers
Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed yesterday openly disowned the N398 million being part of the budget estimates by his ministry meant for the purchase of computers.

Speaking at a budget defence session before the Senate Committe on Information, Mohammed noted that the total sum of N398 million proposed in the budget for the purchase of computers was strange to him.

Reacting to questions on the N230 million and N168 million voted for the purchase of computers for the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) and the Film and Video Censors Board, the minister said he was not aware.

“No, that is not possible. That was definitely not what was proposed, this cannot be,” the minister protested even as an official of the ministry noted that only N5 million was proposed for the item in the original budget of the NFVCB.

But the chairman of the Committee, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe said, “The difference between N5million and N168m is huge.”

Managing Director of NAN, Ima Niboro also expressed shock at the N230million for the purchase of the same item as captured under “Capital Votes” in the 2016 budget of NAN.

A member of the committee, Senator Ben Murray Bruce had also expressed misgivings about the fact that little or no attention was paid to the core functions of the ministry and parastatals under it at a crucial time when Nigeria was at war in the North East.

“I want to ask passionately that they (Ministry/ parastatals) re-submit their budget, taking care of the North East.

because people are dying. This is not the question of spending more recklessly, I appeal that the budget be resubmitted, taking care of their needs in the North East; it is very important”, Bruce said.

Recalling that during the Civil War, radio was a very effective way of communicating with the public, the Senator added that this should also be employed in the war in the North East.

He said. “It would have made more sense for the information budget of the Army to be given to the Ministry of Information to equip these stations manned by NTA and FRCN used by the military as a source of communication.

“For instance, if there is going to be an air raid in a particular area, we can warn the citizens to stay off that particular area. The media can be used like when Buhari did in 1983 for War against Indiscipline, War Against Corruption, so National Orientation should use the medium that we have.

“NTA is a phenomenal network, it has more assets than any station in the whole of Africa today, NTA must be worth 400 million dollars in the open market today.”

Bruce noted that Nigeria is in a state of war as such it was important that national orientation should be in the fore front, followed by NTA and FRCN to be led by the Minister working with the military to guarantee that innocent lives are not lost.
read more: http://tapread.net/2016/02/11/lai-mohammed-disowns-ministrys-n398m-votes-for-computers/

Have you ever wanted to hangout with celebrities and socialites then a visit to Bar192 get you experience a nite with the stars and it could be the best gift for lovers this weekend as we celebrate Valentine.

Bar192 is located in Shoreham Street in the heart of Sheffield, South Yorkshire, United Kingdom. The bar is renowned for its Unique entertainment style in the UK and it is a beautiful Place where all the big guys, top-notch International students, business men & women converge for some fun and quality AfroUrban / Afro -beat music sharing the “gala and the booze”. To the International students’ community in the UK, BAR192 Sheffield, UK is described as the ”AFRO HOUSE OF FUN ” and should be the first option for The Nigerian / International students seeking a classy night out in Yorkshire. The famous bar has a huge variety of live entertainment & top DJs keeping everyone moving with a party mix of lively tunes. Specially spiced up for your enjoyment is the every Last Saturday of the month Event Tagged ”#SEXYSATURDAYS hosted by the CEO of SOSLIMM Entertainments UK, Fadayomi Abiola popularly called Duke Of Yorkshire by his fans. In his words, he said ”We take pride in what we do & it is our duty to go that extra mile and deliver you with only the quality Night Life experience you can ever imagine”. If you’re looking for a new hangout with the entire basement In Yorkshire, UK, VIP party vibes you could wish for, BAR192, Sheffield will show you the dark and luxurious world of exclusive clubbing in Yorkshire. For an ultimately glamorous night out with all the trimmings of debauchery, drinks and dancing, BAR192 Sheffield will take care of you until the sun comes up. If you are lucky to be in Yorkshire hit the bar to find delectable exotic cocktails at pocket prices – punchy concoctions start off at just £6.45! And after you’ve sunk a few back, dance the night away as the Talented DJ spins the Latest Bangers in Afrobeats ,Hiphop, Rnb & lots more.
You would surely get the chance to meet one on one with Nigerian celebrities.

You can Follow host on

Facebook:@SOSLIMMENTS.

Instagram: @DukeOfYorkshire

[quote author=tapread post=42783853]tapread.net/2016/02/10/n400m-fraud-efcc-closes-case-against-olisa-metuh/

The Presidency yesterday expressed worry over N20 billion allocated for the Presidential Amnesty Programme in the 2016 budget, describing it as grossly inadequate.

Brigadier-General Paul Borah

It informed the Senate that most of its obligations in the Amnesty Programme would be frustrated should that amount be approved against the N64 billion it originally proposed for the scheme for the 2016 fiscal year.

Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta/Coordinator, Presidential Amnesty Programme, Brigadier-General Paul Borah (rtd), at a budget defence session with the Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs, disclosed that a significant number of the 30, 000 ‎Niger Delta ex-militants currently undergoing training overseas would be adversely affected.

“In view of the foregoing, I urge you most sincerely to consider an upward review from the proposed N20 billion to N64,824,488,493.27 billion for the sustenance of re-integration of ex-agitators in the Presidential Amnesty Programme for the 2016 fiscal year,” he said.Of the N63.06 billion ‎appropriated for the programme in 2015, N63.02 billion was released.
‎
Borah told the committee that the differences between what was submitted to the National Assembly as budget proposal for the amnesty programme was N44.8 billion.

According to him, while the programme had budgeted N19.950 billion for payments of stipends and allowances of students, a meagre N7.875 billion was voted in the budget proposal that was submitted to the National Assembly.

Another serious difference was that the budget with the National Assembly voted N10.290 billion for re-integration of the ex agitators while N41.804 billion was originally proposed.

Also, N3.07 billion was originally proposed to take care of operational cost but some N1.834 was eventually submitted to the National Assembly.

Borah further said: “With due respect, the proposed N7.875 billion for stipends and allowances can only accommodate 9,868 ex-agitators for the 2016 fiscal year‎, leaving a balance of 15,132 ex-agitators. However, if the proposed sum is to be utilised for the payment of stipends for the 30,000 ex-agitators, the monthly stipend will come to N21,875 for each ex-agitator which will be inadequate to cater for their accommodation and feeding allowances essential in the re-integration phase of the progranme.

“Mr. Chairman, distinguished Senators, this amount will be at variance with the initial agreement between the Federal Government and the stakeholders in the Presidential Amnesty ‎Programme which stipulates that daily feeding allowance of N1,500 and monthly accommodation allowance of N20 000 be paid to each of the ex-agitators”

According to the chairman of the committee, Peter Nwabo‎shi, the committee would also vet the list of 30,000 ex-agitators submitted to it to ensure that they were genuine.

The Committee asked the Presidential adviser to immediately disengage the 247 consultants who have been working for the Programme, pointing out that the economic reality in the country cannot ‎support the engagement of such number of consultants.

http://tapread.net/2016/02/10/n20b-vote-for-amnesty-scheme-grossly-inadequate-senators-told/

When it comes to exclusive entertainment, the Ondos within the country and diaspora are well known for this. Ondo born Fadayomi Abiola, CEO SOSLIMM Entertainment who has received accolades both home and abroad as one of the best party planners in UK gave us an insight into life at Bar 192, Yorkshire U.K. A visit to Bar192 could be the best gift for lovers this weekend as we celebrate Valentine.

Bar192 is located in Shoreham Street in the heart of Sheffield, South Yorkshire, United Kingdom. The bar is renowned for its Unique entertainment style in the UK and it is a beautiful Place where all the big guys, top-notch International students, business men & women converge for some fun and quality AfroUrban / Afro -beat music sharing the “gala and the booze”. To the International students’ community in the UK, BAR192 Sheffield, UK is described as the ”AFRO HOUSE OF FUN ” and should be the first option for The Nigerian / International students seeking a classy night out in Yorkshire. The famous bar has a huge variety of live entertainment & top DJs keeping everyone moving with a party mix of lively tunes. Specially spiced up for your enjoyment is the every Last Saturday of the month Event Tagged ”#SEXYSATURDAYS hosted by the CEO of SOSLIMM Entertainments UK, Fadayomi Abiola popularly called Duke Of Yorkshire by his fans. In his words, he said ”We take pride in what we do & it is our duty to go that extra mile and deliver you with only the quality Night Life experience you can ever imagine”. If you’re looking for a new hangout with the entire basement In Yorkshire, UK, VIP party vibes you could wish for, BAR192, Sheffield will show you the dark and luxurious world of exclusive clubbing in Yorkshire. For an ultimately glamorous night out with all the trimmings of debauchery, drinks and dancing, BAR192 Sheffield will take care of you until the sun comes up. If you are lucky to be in Yorkshire hit the bar to find delectable exotic cocktails at pocket prices – punchy concoctions start off at just £6.45! And after you’ve sunk a few back, dance the night away as the Talented DJ spins the Latest Bangers in Afrobeats ,Hiphop, Rnb & lots more.

You can Follow them on

Facebook:@SOSLIMMENTS.

Instagram: @DukeOfYorkshire …

You can see exclusive pictures of life at BAR192 below: