₦airaland Forum

Kaduna State commissioner of Police, Umar Shehu, yesterday paraded one Bulus Kinze and James Kinze, for allegedly using their residence for illegal manufacturing of arms and ammunitions.

Both suspects are from Kogun village of Jema’a local government area of Kaduna State. They are also alleged to be suppliers of arms to armed bandits within the area.

According to the police commissioner, when the suspects were arrested and their residence raided, the following exhibits were recovered.

Two locally made AK-47 rifles, one locally made SMG rifle and its magazine, two locally made pistols, two police coloured AK-47 magazines, one locally made AK-47 magazine, 20 live 0.36 special revolver ammunition, three live 7.62mm long lar ammunitions, 11 live 7.62mm short, AK-47 ammunition and three live cartridges.

Others are one live 5.5mm, T.6 ammunition, 14 empty shells of 7.62mm short, AK-47 ammunition, 17 empty shells of 0.36 special revolver pistols ammunition, one expanded cartridges, some parts of locally made AK-47 rifle and parts of other rifles, one drilling machine used in production of rifles, one hand driller, some instrument for fabrication of rifles and some assorted charms.

When one of the suspected manufacturers of the illegal arms, James Kinze, was interviewed at the police command headquarters where he was paraded alongside other arm robbery suspects, he owned up to manufacturing locally made arms but said it was meant to protect themselves against bandits that have continued to terrorise their areas unabated.

“Arm bandits have continued to terrorise our area and killing our people, so since we could not get adequate protection from the security agencies, we decided to produce locally made arms to protect ourselves and our people from the recurring attacks by such arm bandits” he said.

Also paraded where 20 suspected persons who were arrested for various offences ranging from, ar‎m robbery, criminal conspiracy, and various acts of terrorism.

Source: http://monitor9ja.com/2015/08/kaduna-state-police-discovers-illegal-arm-manufacturing-factory/

Nigeria has assumed the one-month rotational presidency of the United Nations Security Council, as the country’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Prof Joy Ogwu, takes over from Ambassador Gerard van Bohemen, the permanent representative of New Zealand, who held the presidency for the month of July, 2015.

This will be the first time in the history of the UN that an elected member of the Security Council would assume presidency of the council for the fourth time in two separate tenures within five years. Nigeria was elected a non-permanent member of the council on 17 October 2013 and is serving for the period 2014 – 2015.

This is the fifth time since independence that Nigeria has been elected to serve on this most powerful decision-making organ of the United Nations charged with the responsibility of maintaining international peace and security. Nigeria previously served on the Council from 1966 – 1967, 1978 – 1979, 1994 – 1995 and 2011 – 2012.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/08/nigeria-assumes-presidency-of-un-security-council/

Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK), Dr Dalhatu Tafida, yesterday visited the London home of Oba Okunade Sijuwade, the Ooni of Ife, to commiserate with his family on the passing on of the foremost monarch.

Tafida said he visited the family, including Oba Sijuwade’s son Adetokunbo, and spent about one hour with them. The envoy condoled with the family on behalf of the Federal Government and told them they could ask for consular support —should the need arise.

At Oba Sijuwade’s home were his wives, children and an unnamed traditional ruler from Osun State, according to a source present during Tafida’s visit.

Efforts to reach Adetokunbo, who stays in Banyan House in the upscale neighbourhood in Lensbury Avenue of Southwest London, were not successful last night. Calls to his phones were answered, but he kept saying: “I will call you back.”

Crowds besieged the palace in Enuwa, Ile-Ife yesterday. As early as 9am, hundreds of people had gathered at “Ile Oodua” the sprawling palace of the monarch.

Relations of the monarch and reporters were allowed into the palace and received by members of the Royal Traditional Council, but many indigenes and residents were denied entry by the guards.

The chiefs said the Ooni “is alive and in good state of health”.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/nigerias-envoy-visits-oba-sijuwades-family-in-uk/

As the controversy over the 2015 admission rages, the Registrar and Chief Executive of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor ‘Dibu Ojerinde, has said in spite of new universities that were recently established, the carrying capacity of all tertiary institutions in Nigeria is less than 800, 000.

The registrar stated that this was the only available space for the over 1.4 million candidates that entered for the 2015 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

Ojerinde, who spoke in an interview with journalists yesterday, decried the current situation, stressing that the good intention of the board to redistribute candidates from overloaded institutions to where admissions could be offered to them was opposed by the people.

He said: “The carrying capacity that we have now all over the country including universities, polytechnics, colleges of education among others is less than 800,000 and 1.47 million sat for the examination”.

Ojerinde also called on the federal government to remove the dichotomy between bachelors degree acquired from universities and polytechnics’ Higher National Diploma (HND).

The registrar stated that the discrimination was responsible for the crave for university degrees at the expense of technical and skilled education in the country.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/jamb-registrar-tertiary-institutions-can-admit-less-than-800000-students/

The implementation of a three-pronged financial intervention of President Muhammadu Buhari to assuage workers plight and support the states is now in progress, the presidency has said.

Specifically, state governments, according to a statement by Laolu Akande, the Senior Special Assistant to Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo on Media and Publicity, will start benefiting from the special intervention fund of between N250billion to N300billion in a matter of weeks.

The statement according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), added: “Currently, planning meetings are ongoing on between members of the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), on the one hand, and between CBN and commercial banks on the other hand, regarding details of the special intervention fund and the debt relief programme of the president for states.

“The meetings are reviewing loan profiles of the states, issues around restructuring of existing loans including time span, and reconciling the figures.

“Already, it has been agreed that existing state loans be restructured for 20 years, and regarding the bond option, the rates to be applied would be market-based but with a cap to make it affordable.

“Within weeks from now, the states are expected to start benefiting from this two other parts of the presidential intervention, the statement said.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/presidency-states-to-have-access-to-n300bn-special-intervention-fund-soon/

Job Type: Full Time
Qualification: BA/BSc/HND
Experience: 3 years
Location: Abuja

Job Summary
Support the Decision Support Manager to ensure agreed targets and financial benefits are optimised, costs are managed within agreed envelopes and guidance is provided to the Technical Department on finance issues
Support the improvement of the Network Finance processes

Principal Functions

Liaise, support and assist the technical business area on all aspects of financial and operational matters
Provide support for monitoring and controlling the financial performance of the technical business area via monthly reporting and budgeting/forecasting processes to provide insight into business performance
Support the preparation of techno-economics and accounting analysis/reports as required by the business including:
Product Profitability analysis;
Cost-benefit analysis
Variance Analysis
Geo analysis relevant to financial modelling
Other accounting analysis as required by the business
Ensure Oracle reporting data quality and compliance with accounting standards and guidelines
Provide input into the production of business cases and investment appraisals that could have a material impact on the performance of the business
Liaise with business teams to gather required data for post implementation review of local business initiatives and business cases
Follow up on actions from the technical business area’s monthly financial reviews
Build strong and influential relationships with the technical business area to promote seamless working relationships with the rest of the Finance community.
Attend operational meetings to represent Finance within the assigned business team
Work with the Decision support Manager to implement financial governance within technical team
Work with the Decision Support Manager to develop and implement an improvement process for OPEX management
Responsible for Contract management and optimization of contract agreements in compliance with company policy.
Assist the Decision Support Manager on other ad’hoc projects
Perform any other duties as assigned by the Decision Support Manager

Educational Requirements

First Degree in a relevant discipline from a recognised university
Membership of Professional association (CIMA, CFA, ACCA, ICAN, etc)

Experience, Skills & Competencies

Three (3) to Five (5) years relevant work experience.
Experience in Telecoms industry or management/operational consulting is an advantage.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office – Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Access
Strong accounting fundamentals
Knowledge of Oracle ERP & other industrial standard financial systems
Good understanding of current accounting standards (IFRS)
Basic technical knowledge of Telecoms
Financial modeling (OPEX, CAPEX and Revenue)
Project management
Strong analytical
Problem Solving
Risk and cost control conscious
Quality deliverable
Passion for Excellence
Integrity
Empowering people
Growing people
Team work

Click link to Apply
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/finance-specialist-job-placement-at-etisalat-nigeria/

The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, on Sunday said that the position of the Church in Nigeria against homosexuality was irrevocable.

Onaiyekan reiterated the Church position in a chat with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Makurdi during his official visit to the Diocese of Makurdi.

According to him, the Catholic Church will continue to sustain its stand against gay marriage.
He regretted that many people across the world were accepting homosexuality as a norm but insisted that it could never become a norm just for the fact of its acceptability by some.

“Unfortunately, we are living in a world where these things have now become quite acceptable but for the fact that they are acceptable doesn’t mean that they are right. The Catholic Church considers itself as carrying the banner of the truth in the World that has allowed itself to be so badly deceived,” he said.

He said the Catholic Church was one of the few religious groups across the World that had maintained its consistency against the abnormal sex pattern.

The cleric described homosexuality as against the will of God.

“Even if people don’t like us for it, our church has always said homosexuality is unnatural and marriage is between a man and a woman. There is no such thing as marriage between two men or marriage between two women. Whatever they do among themselves should not be called marriage. There is no question of the Catholic Church changing its positions on this matter,” he stressed.

Source: http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/catholic-archbishop-john-onaiyekan-homosexuality-is-against-the-will-of-god/

Notwithstanding protests and criticisms that have characterised University of Lagos’s new JAMB cut-off point of 250 as opposed to the national benchmark of 180, the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board ( JAMB), at the weekend, threw its weight behind the decision, stating that Nigerian universities must entrench global standards and ensure competitiveness.

The board explained that the decision to align with the institution’s new cut-off mark was to position Nigerian universities as the centres of excellence.

According to JAMB Head of Media and Information, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, the board “has reiterated that the national cut-off marks of 180 for universities and 150 for Polytechnics, Colleges of Education and Innovative Enterprise institutions in the 2015 UTME was a bench mark to set the tone for 2015 admission exercise.

“The decision to have a national accepted cut-off mark at policy meeting was to serve as a guide and pruning mechanism to give the tertiary institutions qualitative and manageable candidates to choose from a pool of candidates desirous of tertiary education.”

He stressed that “universities and other levels of tertiary institutions are at liberty to go higher, but not lower, depending on their peculiarities and the performance of candidates that choose them.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/jamb-supports-unilags-on-new-cut-off-point/

Former governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Abia State, Dr Alex Otti Friday said that unknown gunmen invaded his Abuja guest house in the early hours of the day, apparently to assassinate him.

Alex Otti while Briefing journalists at his campaign office in Umuahia over the unsavoury incident, the former bank boss said he escaped the assassin’s bullet by 24 hours but a policeman on guard duty was shot dead.

He said that in the last seven days he had been staying at the guest house located at Maitama area of Abuja and only left on Thursday for Abia State in order to attend the tribunal sitting in Umuahia. Otti is at the tribunal challenging the outcome of the April 2015 gubernatorial poll in Abia.

According to him, the invading gunmen struck at about 2am on Friday thinking he was still around, adding that what could have been fate was left for the imagination,
“In the early hours of this morning (Friday) I got information that yet-to- be identified people invaded my guest house in Abuja through the back fence, cut the wire mesh and scaled through the fence and made through to where I stay.

“One of the policemen that guard the place was shot dead and the body has been deposited in the mortuary, if I had spent the day yesterday there, maybe it would have been a different story now,” he lamented.

While pointing out that he was not suspecting anyone or group, Otti recalled that “There have been pockets of attempts on my life but not to this magnitude”. He said that police have stepped in and launched investigation into the incident.

Source: http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/former-gov-candidate-of-apga-in-abia-state-dr-alex-otti-escapes-assassination/

Etisalat Nigeria, one of the top four mobile operators in the country, has dragged the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) before a federal government high court in Lagos for favouring its rival, MTN Nigeria, by reversing its 2013 Market Dominance Determination (MDD). According to Etisalat, the development is causing it and other telecom operators to lose revenues running into billions of naira.

Etisalat Nigeria is seeking judicial review of certain actions taken by the NCC which, it believes, is in contravention of the Determination of Dominance issued in April 2013.

In a motion ex parte filed by Mr. Kola Awodein (SAN) on July 15, 2015, Etisalat Nigeria is seeking an order for a judicial review of NCC’s decision approving and allowing a 30 per cent differential between the on-net and off-net retail voice tariff for MTN Nigeria. The approval is said to be in contravention of the obligation imposed on MTN Nigeria under the Determination of Dominance Regulation to collapse its retail voice on-net and off-net tariffs and ensure both tariffs are at par.

In 2012, the NCC conducted a study to assess the level of competition in the Nigeria’s telecoms industry. The Commission thereafter issued a regulation entitled ‘Determination of Dominance in Selected Communications Markets in Nigeria (DDSCMN),’ dated April 25, 2013, wherein it declared MTN Nigeria a Dominant Operator in the Retail Mobile Voice Market segment of the telecommunication industry and directed the firm to immediately collapse the differential between the on-net and off-net retail voice tariffs.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/etisalat-sues-ncc-over-concession-rift/

Ijaw leader and former Information Minister, Chief Edwin Clark yesterday threw his weight behind President Muhammadu Buhari’s anti-corruption war especially in the recovery of the about $150 billion oil money stolen by past government officials.

Clark, during a press conference in Abuja said corruption which has become systemic and endemic has slowed down the progress of the country over the years and the culprits if not severally dealt with will sink the country.

He also called on President Buhari to as a matter of urgency; appoint a successor to the former chairman of the Amnesty Programme to avoid imminent disintegration of the programme which has kept the peace in the Niger Delta.

While congratulating Buhari on his official visit to the United States and his safe arrival to the country, the Ijaw leader called on Nigerians to put the outcome of the 2015 general election behind them and support the president in his fight against corruption.

In a letter to the president, Chief Clark who traced the origin and importance of the Amnesty Programme to the nation’s economy lamented that the programme is facing imminent collapse as it is without leadership.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/edwin-clark-backs-buharis-anti-graft-war/

President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday disclosed his willingness to negotiate with terrorist group Boko Haram for the safe return of the girls of Government Secondary School Chibok abducted last April.

He spoke in an interview with CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, where he maintained that his administration was determined to restore security, fight corruption without sacred cows, among others.

On the president’s requests to the United States in the fight against terrorism and the response he got from President Barack Obama, he said: “United States in the meeting of the G7 promised to do what they can to help Nigeria. So, we have brought our request in terms of training, equipment and Intelligence gathering for Nigeria to be able to fight Boko Haram.”

On the economy, falling oil prices and how he intend to deal with them, since it is what Nigerians really want, Buhari said: “Firstly I believe my people want security in the country to be stabilised so that normal life both in the southern part of the country where militants are sabotaging oil installations, kidnapping people and demanding ransom; and the northeast of the country where Boko Haram is still active. This is main occupation of Nigerians now. There should be a way of looking at things. Nothing will work until the country is secure.”

On the killing of at least 400 people by Boko Haram since he assumed office despite his vows to tackle the sect; the Amnesty International’s allegations of human rights abuses against the Nigerian military; the military’s loss of credibility and trust of the people and whether there would be platform for Boko Haram’s grievances, the President said: “Well, I have just mentioned that under the Lake Chad Basin Commission, we have agreed to form a multi-national Joint TaskForce. So, whatever happens, further decisions will be taken. We have to allow further investigations to verify the question of human rights abuse and with that, we must have known the decision taken by this government, the Federal Government of Nigeria, in changing the military command.”

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/buhari-i-am-willing-to-negotiate-with-boko-haram-on-chibok-girls/

Any parent who refuses to educate his children will now be liable to criminal offence if a bill before the Sokoto State House of Assembly is passed into law, Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has said.

The move, which is considered both radical and revolutionary, is aimed boosting school enrolment and providing quality education to every child as required by local and international laws.

And as part of measures to enhance the implementation of the new policy, government will build and equip 240 primary and tertiary healthcare centres in the three senatorial zones of the state.

Making this known yesterday while addressing religious, traditional and political leaders from 11 local government areas of the state who paid him a Sallah visit in Sokoto, Tambuwal said the policy becomes necessary in view of the high percentage of parents who deliberately frustrate government efforts to educate children.

He said the state government had already made adequate arrangement to cater for the educational needs of its citizens, adding that anyone caught flouting the new regulation will not be spared.

The governor noted that the founders of Sokoto Caliphate made their marks in areas education and scholarship, as such, there’s no excuse if their successors failed to provide at least basic education to the future generation.

According to him, if the state gets its education priorities right, many ills of the society will be taken care of.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/to-deprive-a-child-of-education-is-now-a-criminal-offence-in-sokoto-state/

The International Monetary Fund (IMF’s) Article IV Consultation Staff Report has shown that Nigeria’s oil earnings would drop to $52 billion this year, from $88 billion it was the previous year.

This represents a reduction of six percentage points in the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and would reduce its external current account balance as well as international reserves.

The Fund’s report says Nigeria’s outlook for growth is expected to moderate as the economy adjusts to permanently lower oil prices.

According to the IMF, fiscal oil revenues are projected at 3.4 per cent of GDP, down from 5.8 per cent last year, limiting fiscal spending. It said aggregate demand shocks could lower growth by about 1.5 percentage point from last year to 4.3 per cent this year.

IMF added that the overall impact on non-oil sector GDP will come from cuts in public investment and a reduction in real purchasing power of oil receipts.

It said the depreciation of the local currency will add to inflation, reflecting the pass-through of higher domestic prices for imports, However, it said the effect is likely to be contained, in part due to lower food prices from increased local production of staple food crops.

The IMF said the outlook is compromised by low fiscal and external buffers, which have reduced the capacity to absorb shocks relative to the experience of the 2008-09 financial crisis.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/imf-nigerias-oil-revenue-may-drop-to-52b/

The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, on Sunday broke down in tears while delivering a speech at the Government House, in Kano State.

Sanusi, who had to pause for almost 10 minutes to calm his emotions, said leadership was a great burden on one’s shoulder which obligation must be fulfilled with the utmost fear of God.

The emir spoke when he paid the traditional Hawan Nassarawa visit to Government House, stating that “on the day of judgement, one would be forced to account for his deeds whether good or bad.”

Sanusi reminded leaders at all level of governance to imbibe the fear of God in whatever they do.

The emir stressed that they would be held accountable for their deeds on the day of judgement.

He enjoined the Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, to pay attention to the issue of security, education, healthcare and water supply.

Sanusi expressed confidence that Ganduje would fully utilise his vast experience as a technocrat to propel Kano to greater height.

He stated that the Kano Emirate Council was mindful of the immense contribution given to it by the Ganduje administration hoping that the cordial relationship would be sustained.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/emir-of-kano-sanusi-in-tears-while-speaking-on-leadership/

Two pastors of the Assemblies of God Church Nigeria and their supporters turned yesterday’s worship service to a fighting bout as each group battled over who should control the 27 Mount Street Parish of the church in Enugu.

The latest battle is a new dimension in the leadership crisis rocking the church over who between Rev. Paul Emeka and Rev. Chidi Okoroafor is the authentic General Superintendent of the church.

One of the pastors, Rev. Nathaniel Udeze, came with letters of posting and other court documents in preparation to be installed as the new pastor, but his arrival with his team of supporters was resisted by the resident pastor, Rev. Amaechi Agbo and his supporters, who vowed not to shift ground for any “intruder.”

The matter is currently in several courts including the Supreme Court to determine the true GS of the church.

The fracas at the 27 Mount Street Parish of the church was therefore a demonstration of power tussle between loyalists of the two contending General Superintendents fighting for the soul of the parish considered to be very lucrative.

The development attracted the attention of officers of the nearby Ikirrike Divisional Police, Idaw River Enugu, who stormed the church and ordered the shutting down of the church to avoid break down of law and order.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/two-assemblies-of-god-pastors-engage-in-fist-fight-during-church-service-in-enugu/

To View more Pictures Click link
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/picture-news-some-pictures-of-president-buharis-trip-to-usa/

This, Juwah stated, would become part of NCC’s regulations and guidelines for all telecom operators.
He said the draft enforcement regulation was an amendment of the previous regulations issued to the industry in 2005.

However, he said operators would now be required to submit their advertisement copies for approval, 14 days before publication or roll out in the media.

When finalised, he said the regulations would provide a more robust framework for effective and efficient processes and procedures for carrying out enforcement in the industry.

“These regulations have been amended to reflect best practice which is in tandem with global benchmark,” he said.

The EVC made the disclosure, while speaking on the sideline at its 2015 public inquiries on the draft enforcement process, regulations and SIM replacement guidelines in Abuja.

Asked to explain the basis for the N10 million fine, he said: “The fine of N10 million is not really on the high side if you consider the fact that the fines are being increased from N5 million to N10 million.

“What has happened in the industry is that there has been a rapid growth and we have noticed that the incidence of non-compliance to our regulations has been increasing and because of the progress and success of the industry, we see that the fines of 10 years ago are small and they can pay it.

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http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/ncc-we-will-fine-any-telecom-operator-with-unauthorised-ads-promo/

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has dashed into Abuja to launch a protest. We learnt

Dr Jonathan is disturbed by the determination of President Muhammadu Buhari to probe how $2.1billion was illegally withdrawn from the Excess Crude Account (ECA), sources said yesterday, pleading not to be named “because of the sensitivity of the matter”.

Jonathan is said to be planning a protest to the Gen. Abubakar Abdulsalami, National Peace Committee for 2015 General Elections that:

1. The Buhari administration is trying to blackmail him and his erstwhile cabinet members.

2. The is not pleased with the corruption tar being put on his administration.

3. Their worried by the likely probe of the whereabouts of the $4billion taxes and dividends paid by the Nigerian Liquified Natural gas Ltd between 2009 and 2014.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/jonathan-kicks-as-buhari-plans-to-probe-the-2-1b-illegally-withdrawn-from-the-excess-crude/

The current governing board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has said it inherited over 7,000 abandoned projects scattered across the nine states in the Niger Delta region, as well as liabilities worth over N1 trillion on assumption of office.

Chairman of the board, Senator Bassey Ewa Henshaw, who disclosed this when he paid courtesy call on Bayelsa State governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson at Government House, Yenagoa, said though the commission is faced with challenges such as inadequate release of budgeted funds contrary to section 14, sub-section 2 (a) and (c) of the Act establishing the NDDC, the past one year has been difficult for the commission as the interventionist agency had been striving to complete on-going projects.

Ewa-Henshaw explained that the Act requires the federal government to provide 15 per cent of monies paid from the federation account, pointing out that the NDDC has never gotten its fair share in terms of funding from inception.

The NDDC chairman stated that in the past one year, the interventionist agency had been striving to complete on-going projects,

He said, “The funding for NDDC remains a major challenge and obstacle to the progress that we could have made. For example, since 2001, funds held back by the federal government are now in excess of N800 billion under-payments.”

Ewa-Henshaw noted that the leadership of the NDDC was in the state to seek advice on the way forward, in providing strategic interventions in the areas of power, roads, rail, and education as well as create business opportunities for the people.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/nddc-board-we-inherited-7000-abandoned-projects-n1trillion-liabilities/

A group, South West Professionals Forum (SOWPROF), has hailed All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu for saving Nigeria from economic and political pitfalls.

Established in 1993, SOWPROF hosts over 10,000 Yoruba professionals in Nigeria and the Diaspora.

A statement by its President, Segun Ajibulu, yesterday in Lagos praised the APC leader for risking his life and resources to liberate Nigeria from a ruinous path foisted on it by the ousted Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The statement reads: “Since 1999, Asiwaju has been a pillar of democracy. He put his hat in the ring not for himself but for the benefit of all.

“Tinubu has played more roles than any Nigerian to ensure the sustenance of democracy.

“In the campaign to make the Southwest a model region, we praise Tinubu’s efforts. We urge him not to relent in his efforts to unite the people.

“The future of the Southwest lies in an effective and professional civil service, creative exploration of untapped natural resources and regional integration.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/professionals-hail-tinubu/

For the umpteenth time, the Nigerian Army (NA) authorities tuesday deferred the courtmartial of a brigadier general and 21 others in deference to the Army Day Celebration.

The army had on Sunday revealed plans to continue the trial of the soldiers at the courtmartial sitting at the 9Brigade, Ikeja Cantonment, Lagos.

After concerted efforts to know the status and outcome of the courtmartial, we however gathered that it was postponed.

The reason for the postponement was because the army had declared yesterday a public holiday in commemoration of the 152year anniversary of the force.

The sitting was said to have been tentatively fixed to continue tuesday.

This would not be the first time the courtmartial in Lagos would be postponed. The courtmartial was once postponed in January this year and later in March.

The 22 soldiers are being prosecuted for alleged offences committed during the ongoing war against Boko Haram insurgents in the North-east.

The soldiers on trial include which a brigadier general, 14 colonels, a major, five captains and a second lieutenant, are part of the 547 others being courtmartialed in Abuja and Jos.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/army-day-celebration-stalls-courtmartial-in-lagos/

Lagos State Government Sunday indicated plans to reconstruct the popular Ladipo Auto Spare Parts Market road and other connecting roads to enhance vehicular movement within the axis.

This came to fore when government officials inspected some road networks in the Papa Ajao and Ladipo Spare Parts Market areas in Mushin and Oshodi/ Isolo Local Government Areas of the State with a commitment to commence rehabilitation that would make the roads motorable.

Permanent Secretary in the state Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Bamgbose-Martins who led the inspection said plans are underway to get the contractor working on the Daleko Road back on site to finish the remaining portions of the road
“We need to get the contractor back on site, have them fill it up at least so that it becomes motorable”, he said.

Martins, who was joined by the General Manager, Lagos State Public Works Corporation, Ayotunde Sodeinde, the Chief Press Secretary to the state governor, Habib Aruna and other officials of the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, said palliative measures would be applied by the Public Works Corporation on other roads and craters in the Papa Ajao area.

On the state of Ladipo Market Road, he ruled out the option of carrying out palliative work saying that what the road needs is total reconstruction.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/lagos-plans-reconstruction-of-ladipo-market-road/

1. Communications Specialist – CDC
Job Type: Full Time
Qualification:MBA/MSc/MA
Experience:5 years
Location: Abuja

BASIC FUNCTION OF THE POSITION:
As the lead communications officer, the incumbent develops and implements a comprehensive communications program for CDC Nigeria to promote public understanding of CDC programs and accomplishments. She/he plans and coordinates the dissemination of information relating to the organization’s programs, objectives and functions through various media. This position provides communications supports for multiple public health programs, including but not limited to PEPFAR, PMI, Immunizations and Global Health Security.

To obtain a copy of this announcement please visit our Mission websites at: http://nigeria.usembassy.gov/about_the_us_mission.html

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

NOTE: All applicants MUST address each selection criterion detailed below with specific and comprehensive information supporting each criterion or the application will not be considered.

1. Master’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Marketing or related field is required.

2. Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible working experience in communications or public affairs environment is required.

3. Level IV (fluency) Speaking/Reading/Writing in English Language is required. Language Proficiency will be tested.

4. Incumbent must have an in-depth understanding of overall communications principles, guidelines and procedures related to the management of public relations and working knowledge of the structure and functions of the Agency’s role in support of PEPFAR, PMI, Immunizations and GHS.

5. Ability to quickly and carefully translate technical legal language into understandable and easy to read written documents and ability to adapt style, manner of presentations and format to the requirements of the audience and to assess problems and develop realistic solutions is required.

6. Intermediate user level of word processing, graphics, spreadsheets and database including keyboarding skills that include both speed and accuracy is required.
2. Chauffeur

Qualification: Secondary School (SSCE)
Experience: 2 years
Location: Abuja

BASIC FUNCTION OF THE POSITION:
Under the supervision of the Motor pool Supervisor, the incumbent carefully and responsibly drives an official vehicle to various locations in Abuja, and on some occasions, to other cities in Nigeria. She/he drives Embassy personnel, visitors or cargo to various locations including ministries, embassies, and other businesses organizations.

To obtain a copy of this announcement please visit our Mission websites at: http://nigeria.usembassy.gov/hr_office.html

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

NOTE: All applicants MUST address each selection criterion detailed below with specific and comprehensive information supporting each criterion in the application letter or the application will not be considered.

Completion of Secondary School Education is required.
Minimum of two (2) years professional driving experience is required.
Level III (good working knowledge) Speaking /Reading/Writing in English is required. Language proficiency will be tested.
Level III (good working knowledge) of any widely spoken local language is required.
A good geographical knowledge of Abuja, other cities and neighboring countries, including traffic laws and regulations and ability to drive carefully and cautiously in heavy and chaotic traffic situations on poorly maintain roads is required.
A good knowledge of safety and preventative maintenance practice for vehicles and ability to recognize a hazardous or dangerous situation and take appropriate action is required.
A valid Nigerian driver’s license and ability to communicate clearly on the phone or by radio when necessary is required.

Method of Application

SELECTION PROCESS
When fully qualified, U.S. Citizen Eligible Family Members (USEFMs) and U.S. Veterans are given preference. Therefore, it is essential that the candidate specifically address the required qualifications above in the application.

ADDITIONAL SELECTION CRITERIA

Management will consider nepotism/conflict of interest, budget, and residency status in determining successful candidacy.
Current employees serving a probationary period are not eligible to apply.
Current Ordinarily Resident employees with an Overall Summary Rating of Needs Improvement or Unsatisfactory on their most recent Employee Performance Report are not eligible to apply.
Currently employed U.S. Citizen EFMs who hold a Family Member Appointment (FMA) are ineligible to apply for advertised positions within the first 90 calendar days of their employment.
Currently employed NORs hired under a Personal Services Agreement (PSA) are ineligible to apply for advertised positions within the first 90 calendar days of their employment unless currently hired into a position with a When Actually Employed (WAE) work schedule.

Salary
OR – Ordinarily Resident – N3,154,846 p.a. (Starting basic salary) Position Grade: FSN-06
In addition to the basic salary, all allowances will be paid in accordance with the Mission Local Compensation Plan.
Nor – Not Ordinary Resident AEFM – US$36,353 EFM/MOH – US$31,301 (Starting Salary) p.a. Position Grade: FP-08

Interested applicants for this position MUST submit the following, or the application will not be considered:

Application for US Federal Employment (DS-174); or a current resume or curriculum vitae that provides the same information as a DS-174; plus,
Candidates who claim U.S. Veterans preference must provide a copy of their Form DD-214 with their application.
Any other documentation (e.g., essays, certificates, awards, copies of degrees earned) that addresses the qualification requirements of the position as listed above.
A type-written and signed application letter specifically applying for this position, and addressing the minimum requirements as advertised. Please reference the job title and announcement number on the application letter.
Limit all electronic (e-mail) submissions to one entry/e-mail not larger than 5MB. Please submit attachments in PDF and Word formats, not pictures.
E-mails received without the appropriate subject line and incomplete applications will not be considered.



Submit Application To

Embassy of the United States of America
Human Resources Office,
Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive,
Central District Area,
Abuja.
Or submit to: HRNigeria@state.gov

www.Monitor9ja.com

Officer, Card /E-Crime Forensic Investigations

Job Type: Full Time
Qualification: BA/BSc/HND
Location: Lagos

Position Description
Job purpose
• Investigations into allegations of financial crime and irregularities within Stanbic IBTC Bank Nigeria with specific focus on Card, E-crimes and merchant investigations as directed by the FCC Head in Country. Complete investigations in accordance with the Financial Crime Control (FCC) standards and methodologies aligned to adding value to the Stanbic IBTC Bank business in Nigeria, in order to prevent and recover losses; securing criminal prosecution and civil action. Ensure that all administration and MIS is accurately updated as well as managing relationships with internal and external stakeholders effectively.

Key responsibilities
Manage, lead, provide guidance, facilitate and pursue fraud that is committed against SIBTC Bank and its Customers.
• Manage, lead, collect and analyse relevant information, identify modus operandi of incidents.
• Provide guidance, probe problem areas by following linkages between suspicious cases and entities.
• Direct through process of elimination, identify irregularities and involved parties e.g. syndicates.
• Provide guidance and network within the various areas within the Bank and externally to resolve fraud issues.
• Ensuring compliance to defined processes, e.g. formulating case files, investigation reports, affidavits.
• Direct investigations in determining the Bank’s exposure and to actively recover losses.
• Proactively determine high risk Business Units and potential internal fraud and operational risks
• Proactively assist to facilitate the early detection of fraud leveraging off hotlines and tip-offs.
• Execute the Fraud Strategy through investigations, which will be aligned to Business Goals and priorities
• Provide input and assist in the design and formulation of Banking Industry approaches at industry level e.g. Banking Forums
• Network with Law enforcement agencies, audit, OPS risk, legal and commercial organisations combating financial crime
• On each confirmed internal financial crime matter establish trends, identify modus operandi and provide remedial recommendations,
• Do fraud prevention training to all internal/external stakeholders (Staff & merchants) and actioning early detection reports in order to minimise losses and the risk exposure to the organisation as well as representing the Bank at Interbank and Public Fora

Risk and Loss Management
• Accountable for ensuring the recovery of losses through all available legal remedies and mandates from Visa and Master Card.
• Highlight control deficiencies in the Card Issuing and Acquiring business to the Business stakeholders.
• Assess and pursue recovery prospects.
• Minimise reputational risk by interfacing with relevant parties.
• Take overall ownership and accountability for allocated investigations from the point of allocation until their “formal” conclusion as per the defined processes.
• Apply knowledge and experience to identify fraud, risk and highlight to management.

Process and Case Management.
1. Adhere to the proper process of case management from the allocation of investigations, providing constant feedback to ensure that investigation goals and objectives have been achieved.
2. Attend all relevant Stake holder meetings.
3. Constantly provide intelligence regarding trends, modus operandi, type of fraud documents, and standard of fraud application, knowledge of the criminal groups / syndicates regarding the verification process, other processes that are detected in current investigations on hand. Secure reporting line to relevant 4. Heads regarding relevant intelligence gathered through investigations.
5. On a regular basis, liaise with Law Enforcement Intelligence Services to gather information regarding the movement of suspects, new trends, crime threat’s and modus operandi that are identified from a global perspective.
6. Support the Head FCC by providing daily stats, trends and relevant case information to Management and Business Heads (in country and at centre) to support and secure processes to minimize and prevent losses.
7. Provide Management with consistent and accurate reports regarding fraud trends, market related information regarding fraudulent activities in the Corporate Environment.
8. Be active in supporting the different business heads, know the different product procedures. Provide constantly information to the different business heads regarding crime patterns and modus operandi. These actions will provide them with the relevant knowledge to take sound business decisions that will assist them in minimizing risk and operational losses.
9. Compiling case files for registration with the law enforcement agencies to expedite the tracing and attachment of moveable assets and arrests of suspects.
10. Immediately report incidents discovered through investigations to the relevant business heads and GFCC regarding control deficiencies. Thoroughly investigated deficiencies and provide management with proper knowledge to address and to correct situations.

Key performance measure
• To successfully investigate matters of financial crime with specific focus on Card and Merchant fraud, electronic crimes, cybercrime and gather intelligence and convert it into actionable recoveries and prosecutions.
• Attainment of target in respect of investigations completed, recovery/savings
• Analysis of statistics (cases reported vs. cases worked, vs. confirmed fraud vs. criminal prosecutions vs. convictions and recoveries, staff suspended vs. staff dismissals vs. criminal / civil prosecutions vs. convictions and recoveries
• People management as and when required as directed by the Head FCC.
• Reduction of financial crime losses, with specific focus on Card losses and e.-crimes.
• Adopt a pro-active approach to financial crime control
• Identification of control weaknesses giving rise to fraud and recommending effective control measures to mitigate risk
• Fraud prevention & awareness training to all internal/external stakeholders and actioning early detection reports in order to minimise losses and the risk exposure to the Bank as well as representing the Bank at Interbank and Public

Click link to Apply
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/new-job-position-at-stanbic-ibtc/

Some armed men and officials suspected to be working for Mushin Local Government in Lagos and supported by a team of policemen on Tuesday morning invaded Ladipo Auto Spare Parts Market and demolished shops in the market.

During the demolition exercise, the traders were barred from entering the market in Mushin to remove their goods from the shops.

According to PM News, the armed men were battle ready to forestall any resistance from the traders as the demolition was going on.

The traders were also not allowed to get near the entrance into the market as heavy-duty vehicles were seen taking sand and gravel into the market to commence work after the demolition.

The chairman of the market and president of the central market union, Kingsley Ogunor, said he was not informed before they came for the demolition which threw the entire market into confusion.

In front of the market gate was a banner placed by those suspected to be behind the demolition with the inscription: Proposed Commercial Development of Mushin, Lagos.

It was also written on the banner that Mushin Local Government in conjunction with a developer known as Total Value Integrated Services Limited is to commence building of a modern plaza market in place of the present stalls being demolished.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/famous-ladipo-market-in-lagos-demolished/

The former Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has dismissed the allegation made by the state governors that she spent $2.1 billion from the Excess Crude Account (ECA) meant for the three tiers of government without the authorisation of the National Economic Council (NEC).

Emerging from the inaugural meeting of the council under the Buhari administration on Monday, Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, who has had a running battle with the former minister over the management of the economy and in particular the ECA, alleged that the account had $4.1 billion in November 2014, but now has a balance of $2 billion.

He categorically accused Okonjo-Iweala of spending the difference without the authorisation of NEC. But in a statement yesterday, her media adviser Paul Nwabuikwu said: “The allegation by some governors that former Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, spent $2.1 billion out of the Excess Crude Account ‘without authorisation’ is false, malicious and totally without foundation.

“We want to state categorically that no unauthorised expenditure from the ECA was made under Okonjo-Iweala’s watch in the Finance Ministry.

“Decisions on such expenditure were discussed at meetings of the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) attended by finance commissioners from the 36 states.”

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/07/okonjo-iweala-replys-nec-on-allegations-of-missing-2-1-billion/

Hundreds of grieving Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) students on Monday emptied themselves into the premises of a plastic factory on Lagos – Ore expressway, damaging items worth N7 million and also vandalised 13 trucks packed there.

The angry students also vandalised the company’s office reception even as they threatened a repeat assault next week if the Federal and state governments do not bring to book, those whose inability to obey and implement traffic rules cost the lives of 12 OOU students.

The incensed students who also seized the Sagamu – Ilisan stretch of the Lagos – Ore expresway were reacting to the horrific accident which claimed the lives of their colleagues last Friday.

The factory which is said to belong to some Indian nationals is suspected to own the truck where the 20 – feet container tipped, and fell atop the roof a passengers bus conveying the students.

For the better part of Monday, vehicular movement came to an abrupt halt on both lanes of the dual carriage way as hordes of travelers were compelled to turn back.

There was commotion in an ensuing traffic gridlock as motorists caught unaware struggled to make a detour in order to escape quickly lest they incur the wrath of the incensed students.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/06/oou-students-damage-n7-million-naira-worth-of-items-in-factory-raid/

The Ramadan fast is a time when Muslims take out 30days in the year to consecrate their life’s onto God. But most of the time people only look toward the spiritual benefits alone forgetting their is also a health benefit to the Ramadan fast. Here is a list of ten health benefits of the Ramadan fast.

1. Fasting Helps Weight Loss

Fasting can be a safe way to lose weight as many studies have shown that fasting controlled within a set number of hours allows the body to burn through fat cells more effectively than just regular dieting.

Fasting allows the body to use fat as it’s primary source of energy instead of sugar. Many athletes now use fasting as means to hitting low body fat percentages for competitions.

2. Fasting Improves Insulin Sensitivity

Fasting has shown to have a positive effect on insulin sensitivity, allowing you to tolerate carbohydrates (sugar) better than if you didn’t fast. A study showed that after periods of fasting, insulin becomes more effective in telling cells to take up glucose from blood.

3. Fasting Speeds Up The Metabolism

Fasting gives your digestive system a rest, and this can energise your metabolism to burn through calories more efficiently. If your digestion is poor, this can effect your ability to metabolise food and burn fat. Fasting can regulate your digestion and promote healthy bowel function, thus improving your metabolic function.

4. Fasting Promotes Longevity

Believe it or not, the less you eat the longer you will live. Studies have shown how the lifespan of people in certain cultures increased due to their diets. However, we don’t need to live amongst a foreign community to reap the benefits of fasting. One of the primary effects of ageing is a slower metabolism, the younger your body is, the faster and more efficient your metabolism. The less you eat, the less toll it takes on your digestive system.

5. Fasting Improves Your Brain Function

Fasting has shown to improve brain function, because it boosts the production of a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF.)

BDNF activates brain stem cells to convert into new neurons, and triggers numerous other chemicals that promote neural health. This protein also protects your brain cells from changes associated with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Read full story
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/06/health-is-wealth-10-health-benefits-of-the-ramadan-fast/

1. Trainee Accountant

Job Type: Full Time
Qualification: OND
Location: Lagos

Job Description

Posting payments into the general ledger accounts on a daily basis.
Assist the payable office in processing vendors and petty cash payments.
Carry out banking transaction involving cheque deposits, submission of letters.
Maintain proper and up to date filling of all financial documents
Carrying out other responsibilities as directed by the CFO.

Qualifications and Requirements

Maximum of an OND in accounting or ATS.
Must reside around Lekki Environs.
Must possess basic accounting knowledge.
Must be performance driven with a proven track record.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Good communication skills.
Excellent interpersonal and analytic skills.
Work experience 0-1 year


2. Unit Head, System Integration

Job Type: Full Time
Qualification: BA/BSc/HND
Experience: 3 years
Location Lagos

Job Descriptions

Co-ordination of the Unit’s team effort to implement and adhere to defined standard operating processes.
Formulation of Unit policies and standard operating processes in line with company strategy and business goals.
Ensuring that client server environments meet application deployment requirements
Deployment of applications on client test and production environments.
Integration of applications to various applicable infrastructures (e.g. Active Directory, Exchange Server, FEP, CBA etc.
Involvement in all client site engagements during the life time of project implementation.
Stabilizing of applications in pilot stage.
Data migration where applicable in a project implementation.
Articulation and implementation of on-premise application deployment plans during the implementation phase of software projects.
Ensuring timely integration of software solutions to the relevant third party systems.
Troubleshooting and resolution of third party integration issues.
Adoption and adherence to approved system integration and pilot support policies.
Active engagement in the achievement of Goals & Objectives in line with the company’s vision, mission and values relevant to responsibilities granted to you, which may be amended from time to time.

Skills and Requirement

Must possess an upper credit or 2nd class upper Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or any other related field.
Must possess 3 years’ relevant work experience.
Must possess the ability to use ASP.NET, C#, C++, MS SQL server
Good communication skills.
Must possess the ability to learn with speed & ease
Excellent interpersonal & analytic skills.

Click link to apply
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/06/two-fresh-job-positions-at-appzone-limited/

Brief description:
Masters scholarships for students of any nationality to pursue postgraduate degree in Law, International Relations and Diplomacy and other programmes at Leiden University Netherlands 2016

Accepted Subject Areas:
All MA, MSc and LL.M programmes offered at the university including the following programmes for all nationality:
Master of Laws: Advanced Studies in Air & Space Law
Master of Laws: Advanced Studies in European & International Business Law
Master of Laws: Advanced Studies in International Tax Law
Master of Laws: Advanced Studies in Public International Law
Master of Laws: Advanced Studies in International Civil & Commercial Law
Master of Laws: Advanced Studies in Law & Digital Technologies
Master of Laws: Advanced Studies in European Tax Law
Master of Laws: Advanced Studies in European & International Human Rights Law
MSc in International Relations & Diplomacy

About Scholarship
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship programme (LExS) is being offered for excellent Non-EU/EEA students enrolling in a Leiden University master’s degree programme and for excellent students from all nationalities enrolling in a Master of Law Advanced Programme or MSc in International Relations and Diplomacy.

By what Criteria is Selection Made?
In his or her prior academic education abroad, the applicant must have achieved excellent study results which are relevant for the programme for which the student wishes to enroll. As an indication, the student will be among the top 10% for the relevant programme followed abroad
The applicant will hold a non-EU/EEA passport and will not be eligible for support under the Dutch system of study grants and loans
Scholarships will not be awarded to applicants who have already obtained a Leiden University master’s degree
Students are selected on the basis of academic merit.

Who is qualified to apply?

Non-EU/EEA students enrolling in a Leiden University master’s degree programme starting February 2016 or September 2016 (All MA, MSc and LL.M programmes as mentioned on the website Master’s programmes in Leiden).
All nationalities enrolling in the programmes listed above starting September 2016 or February 2016

Number of Scholarships: The number and type of award of the scholarship depends on the budget available for each Faculty department.

Value of Scholarship
The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship programme has 3 types of awards

€ 10.000 of the tuition fee
€ 15.000 of the tuition fee
Total tuition fee minus the statutory tuition fee (also referred to as home fee)

The number and type of award of the scholarship depends on the budget available for each Faculty department. The type of award has no reflection on the students’ academic level of excellence. Please be aware that the LExS is not a full scholarship.

Duration: Scholarship will last for the duration of the masters programme

Eligible Countries: Any Nationality

Location (country): Netherlands

Application Deadline:

Deadline 1 October 2015 for programmes starting in February 2016.

Deadline 1 February 2016 for all programmes starting in September 2016 except Law programmes.

Click link to apply
http://monitor9ja.com/2015/06/leiden-university-excellence-scholarship-programme-2016/