₦airaland Forum

There are have been crisis in the Buhari’s media center in Abuja over several months of unpaid salary to its members, we learnt in an exclusive report.

One of the agitated member of the center who wants name not to be mentioned said, members of the center have not been paid for the past 5 months, that the delay in payment is affecting their job drastically.

Went further to disclose that, they were told that the money has been paid by the financier (Name Withheld) but yet to be paid to them by the manager of the center, stating further that top members earns about N200,000 a month while middle level members earns N125,000 and members in offshoot locations across the country earns N50,000 a month.

Buhari media center (BMC) comprises of reporters from media houses, TV personalities, Radio OAPs, Social media influencers, bloggers, article writers, TV/Radio call in personalities amongst others.

It was further learnt that majority of their members were recruited by head hunting from social media or through referrals, that any social media user who frequently supports Buhari with reasonable number of social media followers are contacted to be recruited into the BMC.

According to another source, after payment of backlog salaries, there is an underground plan to massively recruit more members into BMC from all states across the country, the decision was reportedly taken after a report was presented to one of the senior presidential spokesman that Buhari’s popularity on social media is dwindling.

They also complained that a group called Wailing Wailers are not making the job easy for them therefore will need more hands to do the job on social media.

They argued that Nigerians are bashing President Buhari on social media over his re-election bid in 2019, that more social media warriors must be recruited, for example, the newly signed member Mr Aye Dee who recently took a “U Turn” to join the BMC.

A separate report indicates that the top level members of the BMC are saddled with the task of facing top critics like Ben Bruce, Dino Melaye, Shehu Sani, Gov Ayo Fayose and others.

A spokesman for the Wailing Wailers Mr Ibrahim confirmed that his group and other pro Nigerian people are battle ready to shame the BMC members and ensure they do not control the narrative no matter their numbers on social media.

…Seeks support of residents to deliver clean, hygienic city

…Inaugurates new board of environmental sanitation corps

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Saturday allayed the fears of residents over the resurgence of waste on major highways and streets, assuring that the State Government is on top of the situation and working round the clock to make it a thing of the past.

Speaking at Lagos House in Alausa, Ikeja after inaugurating new board of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC) now to be headed by a retired Assistant Commissioner of Police as Corps Marshal, Daniel Isiofia, Governor Ambode said the new waste management policy of government encapsulated in the Cleaner Lagos Initiative (CLI) was designed to holistically address the challenges in the sector, and that all hands were already on deck to confront the initial hitches with the transition period.

He said adequate officials of LAGESC transformed from the former Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI), have been employed to police all nooks and crannies of the State to curb indiscriminate dumping of waste and other acts inimical to clean, hygienic and sustainable environment.

Governor Ambode, who was represented at the inauguration by his Special Adviser on Education, Mr Obafela Bank-Olemoh, said concerted efforts were ongoing to clear the heaps of refuse across the metropolis, and assured that there would be marked improvement in coming days.

He said: “We are all living witnesses to the restructuring we are trying to do in the environmental sector. That restructuring culminated in the introduction of CLI which is focused at ensuring that the way we clean Lagos is comparable to what is being done in first class cities in the world.

“As a result, we are changing the way environment in Lagos is being managed and to help us to achieve that, this Sanitation Corp is important. But more importantly now is to speak to the fact that yes, we are having some challenges in the area of waste management in Lagos today. We all live in Lagos but I want to reaffirm that we are doing everything to ensure that this becomes a thing of the past.”

The Governor, who recalled similar challenges in the State in 1999 under the administration of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressed optimism in the workability of the new initiative, saying that the challenges with the teething stages would soon be over.

“Let me assure the people that in the coming weeks, there will be improvement. We are already witnessing a high-level of improvement; we promise that throughout this week and throughout next week, people will see a marked improvement in our State as more equipment come in to the country and we are able to deploy the equipment accordingly.

“But beyond the fact that we are clearing waste, the CLI is also ensuring that we have landfill sites not dumping sites but landfill sites where the waste we are generating in Lagos can be recycled, re-engineered and also resold so that we can create wealth and a new business for Lagosians to tap into.”

Speaking further, the Governor said: “Another key aspect of the initiative is that it will create jobs. As we speak to you, we have employed over 8500 new street sweepers that are being deployed across the State and the target is 27,500. So, every part of Lagos will have street sweepers that are unique to them and live in their neighborhood. Once again, I want to reassure the people that we are on top of the issues here; we promise that you will see a marked improvement and we are totally committed to that. God helping us, we will deliver one of the cleanest cities in the world,” the Governor said.

Besides, Governor Ambode said the support of residents was key to the success of the new initiative, and urged the people to team up with his administration to achieve the overall objective to deliver a clean, hygienic and sustainable environment.

Also speaking, Commissioner for Health, Dr Jide Idris said the need for the new environmental initiative became imperative owing to the fact that there was need for a review of the old system to tackle emerging challenges.

Idris, who said there was correlation between environment and health, particularly urged LAGESC to efficiently and effectively perform its duty, just as he underscored the need for the people to support government.

“The State Government will do its bit; that is why we are here; that is why everybody is working round the clock to ensure we get things done but the people themselves have a serious role to play in terms of their behavior, personal sanitation, what to do with waste and also the people must understand that whatever disease that befall them is due to their own personal behavior because they need to complement the activities of government.

“All of us have a role to play in keeping Lagos healthy because there is a connection between health, environment and security,” Idris said.

On his part, Isiofia thanked Governor Ambode for the opportunity to serve the people, assuring that his men will hit the ground running in line with the mandate to keep the State clean.

He said though the starting point may be difficult but assured that every efforts would be made to change the face of Lagos for good.

The Federal High Court in Lagos has dismissed the claim of Union Bank Plc to Flat 7B, Osborne Towers, Ikoyi, Lagos.

The court described the bank as a busybody, just as it ordered the permanent forfeiture of the property to the Federal Government.

The flat attracted public attention in April last year when large sums of money – $43,449,947, £27,800 and N23, 218,000 (about N13bn) – were recovered from it.

The money, according to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission was stashed away in iron cabinets and “Ghana-must-go” bags in the apartment.
The anti-graft agency later traced the ownership of the apartment to Mrs. Folashade Oke, the wife of the suspended Director General of the National Intelligence Agency, Ayodele Oke.

It claimed that its investigations revealed that Folashade bought the property with proceeds of fraud by her husband.

It urged the court to order the permanent forfeiture of the property to the Federal Government.

In a ruling on Friday, Justice Mojisola Olatoregun, granted the EFCC’s prayer, dismissing the objection by Union Bank, which claimed to have interest in the property.

The judge said she found from the papers filed before the court, that the bank had already sold the property to Chobe Ventures Ltd., a company owned by Mrs. Oke.

Justice Olatoregun held, “It appears to me that the interested party (Union Bank) is a busybody, who is crying more than the bereaved, having transferred all its rights on the property, the subject matter of this suit.

“The interested party has no legal reason to lodge any complaint on the steps being taken by the EFCC on the property, having divested its interest by the outright sale of the property to Chobe Ventures.


“I find the interested party’s motion, seeking to vacate the interim order of forfeiture granted by this court on November 9, 2017, as unmeritorious and same is struck out.

“From the affidavit evidence before the court, the applicant (EFCC) has shown clearly that the property sought to be forfeited was reasonably suspected to have been acquired with the proceeds of unlawful activities of Mr. and Mrs. Ayodele Oke in the name of Chobe Ventures.

“The fund belongs to the Federal Government of Nigeria, which, at the material time, is under the control of Ambassador Ayodele Oke.

“The respondent, Chobe Ventures Ltd., refused and neglected to either file any process or appear in court.

Nigeria threw one leg into the quarter –finals of the on –going 5th African Nations Championship in Libya after Sunday Faleye’s 79thminute goal separated them from 2014 champions Libya in Tangiers.

Both teams fought a fierce and tactical battle on the turf of the Stade Ibn Batouta, but Nigeria, bronze medallists at the 2014 finals in South Africa, created more chances but just could not put them away, as happened against Rwanda in their opening match at the same venue on Monday.

There were very few notable moments in the first half, with both teams tackling each other hard at the vital areas, and the Eagles, who needed a win more having drawn their opener against the Amavubi, showing greater zest.

But the first remarkable moment only came in the 55th minute, when Faleye, operating from the left wing, sent an inviting cross into the vital area, but Emeka Ogbuh’s header did not trouble Libya’s goal –tender.

Six minutes later, Mustapha Ibrahim came in for the battling but largely ineffective Anthony Okpotu, and Ekundayo Ojo also for Ifeanyi Ifeanyi 14 minutes later.

In the 79th minute, Faleye slammed home from an Osas Okoro’s corner kick, taking the Super Eagles to four points and ahead of the Libyans.

Faleye was good for a brace only three minutes later, as Nigeria broke down the middle, but substitute Ibrahim’s pass was cut out by the Libyan defence.

The Eagles will now head to the city of Agadir, where they play debutants Equatorial Guinea on Tuesday.

Emmanuel Adebayor says he “hates” Arsenal and has branded Arsene Wenger as “fake”.

The striker, now playing for Turkish side Istanbul Basaksehi, has accused Wenger of lying over his Gunners exit and lifted the lid on why he prefers Jose Mourinho’s “honesty”.

Adebayor, 33, was the first of three Gunners attackers to leave for Manchester clubs – with Alexis Sanchez now set to follow.

But – unlike Sanchez, Robin van Persie and Samir Nasri – Adebayor says Wenger forced him into a £25million move in 2009.

Comparing Wenger to Mourinho, who the Togolese played for on loan at Real Madrid in 2011, Adebayor said: “Mourinho is the one of the managers I loved and will always love.

“He is one of the (most) honest managers I have met in my career, which is crazy because most of the managers are all kind of like fake.

“As an example, I had a meeting with Arsene Wenger in his office when he told me I had to leave because he doesn’t see my future any more in Arsenal. I have to move on in my life.

“I was like ‘I’m going to stay.’ He was like ‘no there is not even a fight organised. We are not going to organise any fight for you. You move out or you stay here and don’t play any games.’

“So I didn’t have any other choice than joining Man City which I was very happy to join.

“And the next day when I joined Manchester City I saw him doing a press conference in London saying that I wanted to leave because the money was big and everything and since that day that is where the hate for Arsenal came from.

“Not the fans because the fans are the first English fans to sing my name in London.

“Even today when I watch them play I want them to win but at the same time I want them to lose because the anger in me is too big.

“Mourinho is a manager that wants to win a trophy no matter what it takes, even if he has to park the bus, the train or a plane he just wants to win and will do everything it takes to win.

“He will not sleep. He will work 24 hours to win one game and Arsene just loves to bring kids in and make them become big players. He is like a teacher.”

Adebayor faced his old side just a month into the new season and netted in a 4-2 win with his fourth goal in consecutive games for since joining.

Van Persie also accused Adebayor of kicking him in the face.

But the moment fans remember is his goal, which Adebayor celebrated by running the length of the pitch before sliding on his knees in front of the travelling Gunners supporters.

He added: “What was going through my head? A prisoner is out. A prisoner is free.

“I play for the club for three and a half years. They bought me for three or four million they sold me for 27 million they still calling me names. They are still telling me I leave for money?

“You bought me for three million I still have five years of contract and you let me go for 20 million more and you are telling me I am the one leaving for money and abusing me.

“You can insult me no problem, but telling me my father washes elephants?

“I am not taking that so it was just to show them that the person you are insulting still has something in his locker.”

Ex-Super Eagles Star and Football Legend, Kanu Nwankwo has called on the general public to come to his aid to persuade AMCON to respect Court orders and release his properties.

In a statement by the ex-international footballer and made available to The ELITES, he explained that his property which is known as Herdly Apartments located at Victoria Island Lagos has been put under temporary possession of AMCON on account of purported indebtedness which remains unproven since November 2015 till date.

Kanu’s emotional release explained that this has been the reason his Heart Foundation has been threatened, because with the possession of his hotel being taken by AMCON since he retired as a footballer, the establishment, Herdly Apartments was the source of his funding for the Kanu Heart Foundation. He also pointed out that some properties in the hotel have been vandalised and also there are attempts to give it to a third party to run.

He called on well-meaning Nigerians to intervene as he said, “As I issue this statement, my heart bleeds, it bleeds indeed, profusely not just because my priced possession which emerged out of my blood and sweat as a footballer is at the risk of being taken away, under the weight of an intractable/ belligerent government apparatus unjustifiably, but because of his imminent defeat of the purpose if its establishment which is to save lives,” he explained.

A 59-year-old man, Kenneth Okafor, who is alleged to have defrauded one Mrs. Josephine Membi of N3 million has been arraigned at a Wuse Chief Magistrate’s Court, Abuja.

Theaccused of No 590 Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Wuse 2, is facing a five count charge bordering on criminal conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust, disapprobation and personation.

Theprosecutor, Barrister MC Obilor, told the court that the said Mr Okafor had conspired with one Mr Chris Nwoke an alleged international fraudster and misrepresented himself as a pastor to Mrs Membi in order to deceive her and make her believe that she was dealing with a credible Nigerian.

“Based on this deceit, he fraudulently obtained the sum of N1.5 million to buy a fairly used Toyota car for her but failed to fulfill this agreement only to tell her that the said Nwoke had escaped to the United States of America with his share of the proceeds of the fraud,” the prosecutor said. He added that the accused, taking advantage of the weakness of the widow, obtained another N1.5 million under the pretext of purchasing a fairly used ML Mercedes jeep in Lagos, but disappeared with the said amount. Obilor said the accused made several financial demands and extorted more money from the widow under the pretext of paying duties on the car which he never bought. According to the prosecutor, the offence is contrary to sections 97(2), 312, 322, 309 and 179 of the penal code.

Theaccused, however, pleaded not guilty and the magistrate, Ubani Tony Chukwuka, granted him bail in the sum of N1 million with a surety in like sum who must be a resident of Wuse, Abuja. The case was adjourned to the 30th of January, 2018.

Thecase is starting de novo before Justice Chukwuka as it was transferred to him from Justice Zainab Bashir who was recently elevated to the National Industrial Court.

Independent fibre optic infrastructure and telecommunications services provider – Phase3 Telecom has firmly refuted wrong allegations that it and Alheri Engineering limited owe Federal Government of Nigeria the sum of $75,500,000.00 million (about N27.18billion at N360 to $1) over fibre optic agreement with Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).

In a statement released by the company recently, it describes the claim by a section of the news media as scurrilous and unmerited while assuring its clients as well as members of the general public that those accusations were “unmerited insinuations that are far from true but intended to obscure what the real issues are…and should be promptly disregarded”.

Further to these, the company also chose to state that despite deployment challenges which include multi-year delays in linesmen allocation by TCN and devaluation/depreciation of the national currency; Phase3 has ensured that all undisputed payments such as total concession fee payment, royalties, and rental payment for equipment space to TCN were up to date.

That although a dilapidated fiber optic network was inherited from TCN, Phase3 has however, deployed a total of 2000km and installed state-of-art transmission equipment along with the rehabilitation of the existing fiber which has seen concessionaires expend more than $100m as capital and operating expenditure on the project.

The company stressed that the cause for unfounded allegations by TCN is due to its resistance of the harmonization of right of way charges for deployment of fiber optic cables as agreed and communicated by the National Economic Council towards affordable broadband services in the country.

A development that necessitates a review of the Right of Way (Row) charges for deployment of fiber optics on power lines (concession fees) to be at par with other RoW charges available in the telecom industry.

While affirming that Phase3 has always honoured the terms of the concession agreement with TCN in line with kilometer of fiber available as well as market realities and most imperatively the contract review process towards ensuring the success of this project for the overall benefit of the country under the supervision of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), the regulatory agency that is saddled with the responsibility of the review process.

Strongly maintaining that Phase3 has never and will never involve itself in such revolting act as defrauding TCN; as its unwavering commitment has always been to proffer affordable and robust service solutions that will see customers and other businesses rapidly leverage the opportunities of reliable broadband internet across Nigeria.

Management of Alheri Engineering Company Limited has vehemently denied owing Federal Government the sum of $75,500,000.00 million (about N27.18billion at N360 to $1) over fibre optic agreement.
In a statement released by the company on Monday, the company described the accusation as wrong and fallacious and assured its customers that the story is “…not only untrue but a distortion of facts and events twisted to achieve a predetermined goal. The story is as bizarre as it is deceptive, calculated only to sensationalize and to smear the good corporate reputation and image of Alheri”
The company stated that after a very extensive and competitive bid selection process, it was shortlisted with Phase3 as preferred bidders for the award of the concession for the fiber optic deployment project under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement
“The Concession Agreement required the Concessionaires to take over the operations of TCN’s fiber optic network, Design, Build, Finance and Operate (DBFO) the infrastructure with unhindered access to existing and future fiber optic infrastructure on the network. For the purpose of execution of the Project, the entire country was divided into two. The Easter half of the country awarded to Alheri and the Western half to Phase3. It is worth to note that the Concession area granted to Alheri covers less economic viable cities,” it stated.
Despite the deployment challenges as evidenced by TCN’s refusal to meet its obligations under the agreement for example by providing lines upon which Alheri is to build upon, the company revealed that it has expended huge capital outlay to carry out extensive expansion and upgrades on TCN’s telecommunications infrastructure but could not deploy fiber to the North which constitutes a significant market as “there is no line between Makurdi and Jos, which constitutes the bridge between the South and North”
Revealing that a request by Alheri for timelines within which TCN intends to provide the requisite lines between Makurdi and Jos since 2011 has not been provided by TCN till date, the company stated that despite Alheri’s serious challenges, and inheriting next to nothing on the infrastructure concessioned to it, it was still able to deploy a total of 1000km and installed state-of-art transmission equipment along these lines…” Alheri inherited no lines from TCN. The concessioners have therefore thus far expended more than $100m as capital and operating expenditure on the project,” it affirmed.
Alheri’s management expressed surprise at the publication of TCN online and in some Newspapers as Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) has already intervened to resolve the impasse, being the moderator in the resolution process and posited that the “unfounded allegation is the attempt by TCN to resist the restructuring of the concession fee due to the changes in the regulatory and market environment as suggested and recommended by SIAO the Auditors appointed to audit the Concession Agreement with specific terms of reference which included financial audit, technical audit, audit observation and recommendation, with the understanding that Parties will be guided by the outcome of the Auditors’ report. The audit confirmed that prices on capacities for sale of transmission services on fiber per km dropped by about 89 per cent by 2015. The report submitted by SIAO confirmed the need for a review of the Concession Agreement, especially the Right of Way (RoW) charges for the deployment of fibre optics on power lines to be at par with other RoW charges available in the telecom industry.”
Noting that Alheri has always honoured the terms of the Concession Agreement with TCN in line with kilometer of fiber available as well as market realities, it stated that it has never been and would never be part of any diversion or misappropriation of funds accruable to TCN as wrongly claimed by the news media.

The youngest son of the late MKO and Kudirat Abiola, Abdul Mumuni Abiola, has accused his elder brothers, especially Kola Abiola, of playing God over their father’s properties.
In a statement, Mumuni also accused his seniors of allowing their father’s houses and investments to rot without doing anything about them.
“I want my brothers, Kola, Deji, and Agboola to stop playing god with our father’s properties and abandoned projects and investments,” Mumuni said.
“I, my brothers and sisters totalling 40 children of Abiola are not fighting with them. We don’t have a bone to pick with them. But we need to step out of the past and of our father’s shadow.
“Kola, Deji and Agboola have been peddling lies in the media about my efforts to bring about changes to the dwindling fortunes of the Abiola family.
“I am ashamed just like my other brothers and sister to see that after MKO Abiola’s death, many of his legacies appear to be in shambles. No, it shouldn’t be like that. That is not what MKO Abiola stood for while he was alive.”
He pleaded with Nigerians to caution Kola against harassing him with the police.
He said his decision to renovate his father’s property is not for personal gains, but to restore the lost glory of the family’s name.
He added that he had waited patiently for 18 years, saying he had had enough.
“I want the good people of Nigeria to prevail on Kola and his cohorts to stop using the police to harass me or those who are working with me to restore the lost glory of the Abiola family,” he said.
“Every effort I have been making to renovate my father’s properties is not self-driven. It is for all my siblings and for the name of Chief MKO Abiola not to be dragged through the mud.
“Why should some people be sending thugs and miscreants after me and those working with me to renovate MKO Abiola’s properties?
“Why should that be? Do we have to wash our dirty linen in the public? Why should only a select few of Abiola’s children sit on our father’s properties? I am not even asking them to give me and my other siblings a share of the money-spinning companies of my father that they sit on.
“Our humble request is that they should allow me and my other siblings who are interested in renovating Abiola’s derelict properties. I have been painstakingly patient for 18 years. Enough is enough. I am also informing the public that my life is in danger. I don’t feel safe any longer. If anything should happen to me or my siblings, Kola and his cohorts should be held responsible. I love life but I will not sit down cowardly.”

The board of Sterling Bank Plc, on Thursday informed the capital market community of the retirement of Yemi Adeola, its managing director and chief executive after nine years on the saddle with effect from March 31, 2018.

The new CEO, Abubakar Suleiman, an Economics Graduate of the University of Abuja and a Masters Degree in Management from the University of Oxford, started his career at Arthur Andersen, now KPMG Nigeria from where he joined MBC International (now part of First Bank) as a management associate, before moving to Citibank Nigeria to take up roles such as Treasury and Asset & Liability Management.

Appointed in February 2009 from his position as Executive Director, Corporate and Commercial Banking, taking over from Babatunde Dabiri, Yemi Adeola who has been in the industry for 30 years, will be replaced withSuleiman, ED, Finance and Strategy of the bank.
A statement to the Nigerian Stock Exchange, jointly signed by the bank’s chairman, Asue Ighodalo and Justina Lewa, the company secretary, noted that Suleiman was named Chief Financial Officer in 2012 from where he joined the board in April 2014, directly overseeing Finance and performance management, strategy and innovation, branding and communication, as well as human resource management functions.
Suleiman, executive sponsor of the bank’s non-interest banking business (Sterling Alternative Finance), the statement added, joined Trust Bank of Africa, a legacy member of the Sterling Bank Group in 2003 with responsibility for Treasury and Finance.
Post-merger in 2006, he was named Group Treasurer, a position he maintained until 2011, when he assumed the role of Integration Director, following Sterling Bank’s acquisition of Otunba Mike Adenuga junior’s Equitorial Trust Bank (ETB).

…Appoints five new commissioners



Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday carried out a major cabinet reshuffle, dropping three commissioners and appointing five new ones.

In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello, the three affected cabinet members are Mrs. Adebimpe Akinsola, Mr. Femi Odubiyi and Mr. Anifowoshe Abiola.

The newly appointed cabinet members include Mr. Hakeem Fahm (Ministry of Science and Technology); Mr. Ladi Lawanson (Ministry of Transportation); Mr Segun Banjo (Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget); Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye (Ministry of Commerce and Industry) and Mr. Hakeem Sulaiman (Communities and Communications).

The Statement added that major deployments have also been effected.

Mr. Rotimi Ogunleye from Commerce and Industry to Physical Planning and Urban Development; Mr. Steve Ayorinde from Ministry of Information and Strategy to Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Kehinde Bamigbetan from Communities and Communication to Ministry of Information and Strategy; Mr. Babatunde Durosinmi Etti from Ministry of Wealth Creation to Ministry of the Environment; Mrs. Uzamat Akinbile-Yusuf from Ministry of Youth and Social Development to Ministry of Wealth Creation; Mr. Agboola Dabiri from Central Business District to Ministry of Youth and Social Development.

Others include Dr. Samuel Adejare from Ministry of the Environment to Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development; Engr. Ade Akinsanya from Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development to Ministry of Works and Infrastructure.

In the same vein, the statement also added that Mr. Benjamin Olabinjo has been moved from Special Adviser Commerce and Industry to become Special Adviser Civic Engagement, while Mr. Kehinde Joseph moved from Special Adviser Civic Engagement to become Special Adviser Housing.

Mr. Deji Tinubu, Special Adviser Sports has been redeployed as Special Adviser to the Governor on Commerce and Industry and Mr. Anofiu Elegushi moves from Special Adviser Transport to become Special Adviser, Central Business District.

The new Commissioners are expected to be cleared by the State House of Assembly while the other redeployment and postings take immediate effect.

According to the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Bello, the new appointments and redeployments are intended to create a new vigour and vitality for service delivery which has been the hallmark of the Governor Ambode administration.

By: Joshua Oladeji

Pop culture is relentless in giving access to virtually limitless entertainment. With the eager anticipations to season finales and binge-watching episodes, the question “why do people watch the same thing over and over again?” has been at the hearts and minds of many for years.

Viewers have sought out familiar entertainment for specific reasons, with one of them being to recapture lost feelings of nostalgia.

However, with so many amazing television shows and movies produced and broadcast around the world on a daily basis, it gets one wondering: how do you catch up with all of it? Hard core television fans always have that story of getting home late at some point, the dire consequence of which is missing the eagerly awaited episode of that addictive TV show.

On many occasions Repeats and Reruns have helped save face from this disappointment as viewers can often rest assured that a repeat broadcast is somewhere in the works.

This has become a huge part of the television viewing culture – many people have very busy lives and they just can’t keep up with the deadlines offered by live shows. They want to be able to know that when they decide to return to the couch they can catch up on all they have missed.

Others just want to relive those TV moments again, if you really enjoyed watching a TV show or a football game you probably would want to see it again. This means that you never get to miss anything because Reruns are fixed to accommodate viewership for everybody.

There are some counter arguments though, as some argue that the advent of the internet and other innovations in technology has put power in the hands of the audience who can now decide to stream a show or buy a movie they really like to see online whenever they want – very much like what people do with the DStv Explora decoder.

From the back-end business side, producers have also benefited greatly from the use of television repeats globally, especially through syndication. Television and film productions are usually very expensive and producers have been able to use rebroadcasts and syndication to cover this large overhead, ultimately assuring the survival of the productions.

Although sometimes Repeats have managed to be annoying especially when they have been scheduled uninspiringly, I feel people generally benefit more when they are able to catch the favorite shows and re-watch them at their convenience.

Aminu Atiku, son of Atiku Abubakar, former Vice-President, allegedly took his son away from ex-wife, Fatima Bolori, after losing custody of his two children on Wednesday.

Atiku was said to have snatched his son from the mother, locked him in his car and drove off.

The Nation reports that the incident happened around 1:59pm at the Tinubu’s Magistrate Court in Lagos, minutes after Kikelomo Ayeye, the chief magistrate, ruled in favour of Bolori.

Ayeye granted Bolori full custody of both children, Ameera and Aamir, after Atiku failed to file a response to her application for child custody.

The court ordered Atiku to pay Bolori N250,000 monthly for the upkeep of the children and ordered him to carry out medical insurance on the children.

Court proceedings were reportedly over before Atiku arrived with his legal team.

“The respondent failed to file a response. In view of the deliberate absence of the respondent and his legal team, I am constrained to make these following orders in default of respondent’s presence,” Ayeye said in her judgement.

“In the best interest of the children to wit: Unmi Fatima Bolori is hereby granted full custody of Aamir Abubakar Sadiq Aminu Atiku (seven years) and Ameera Amina Atiku (nine years).

“The applicant is allowed to reside with the children at her residence at Katampe Extension, Abuja. The applicant is ordered to put the children in schools suited for their educational needs in Abuja.

“Access is granted to the respondent to visit his children in Abuja and request for the children to spend holidays with him. The respondent is ordered to pay monthly upkeep for the children in the amount of N250,000 monthly beginning January 2018.

“The respondent is ordered to effect medical insurance on each of the children.”

Bolori and Atiku got married in 2007 but separated in 2011.

Diamond Bank has been awarded the prestigious ISO/IEC 20000-1:2011 certification by the British Standard Institute (BSI) Group.

The certification, which was awarded after a rigorous process and systems audit by qualified BSI auditors, is a seal of approval that the Bank’s network architecture, software design, security policies, procedures and protective practices conforms to global security standards in data and financial service delivery system.

The ISO 20000:2011 certification for Service Management System (SMS) is the World’s highest standards of information technology service delivery, demonstrating Diamond Bank’s commitment to a world-class, customer-focused service culture and environment.

Speaking on award, the Bank’s Chief Executive Officer, Uzoma Dozie, stated that Diamond Bank’s commitment towards quality IT service delivery is unwavering, adding that the Bank will continue to pursue and meet world class standard in the provision of IT infrastructure that will enable it deliver unequaled and satisfactory financial services to its millions of customers.

“Diamond Bank do not just provide banking services, we also provide non-banking service 14million customers across the country. With the ISO/IEC 20000-1:2011 certification can now collaborate with other multinational and it gives them more confidence to do business with us without fear,”Dozie stated.

The Bank’s Chief Information Officer, Lanre Bamisebi, also noted that the certification and award has positioned and strengthened Diamond Bank in its quest to continually deploy cutting-edge technological platforms and processes that will enhance its delivery of world class financial services, boost customer satisfaction, meet regulatory requirements and increase staff productivity.

According to him, the Bank has also successfully passed her surveillance audit in ISO 27001 for Information security, ISO 22301 for business continuity and PCIDSS for card security.

Diamond Bank has continued to lead the digital revolution in the financial services sub-sector through the deployment of cutting edge technology in servicing its customers’ needs and changing lifestyle. It could be recalled that the Bank pioneered the online real-time banking with the Diamond Integrated Banking System (DIBS) in 1992.

The Bank has remained a key driver of financial inclusion in Nigeria, the effects of which include Diamond ‘Yello, which has over 15 million customers. The success recorded in driving financial inclusion using mobile technology has led to numerous invitations for strategic partnerships by multilateral international agencies including the IFC, USAID, Women’s World Banking, Shore Cap Exchange and DFID.

• $21m ‘work’ invoice under probe
•AGF to advice on relationship with indicted firm

Dredging of waterways to ensure smooth flow of shipping traffic through the many water channels into the Nigerian seaports has run into major controversy recently, following sharp practices which have continuously trailed the contracts.
The latest of these scandals involve the dredging of three water channels for which the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) is reported to have spent a whooping $3 billion (N1.09 trillion) since 2006, for questionable jobs allegedly done and invoiced.
Recently, courts in Switzerland convicted a Swiss company over a $20 million dredging bribery scam which named three top former officials of the NPA as being involved in the deal.
In addition, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is probing petitions for payment by the NPA of $13 million for alleged dredging of the Calabar Channel which some petitioners alleged were questionable.
The contract for the maintenance of the Calabar Channel was eventually terminated by the NPA, following rifts over the questionable $13 million invoice currently being probed and another $21 million invoice which the Calabar Channels Management (CCM) had lodged for further payment.
THEMOMENT learnt, the scandal also involves a top senator from the South East, who chairs one of the senate committees, who is said to be a major stakeholder in the CCM. He was alleged to have been mounting undue pressure on the NPA to honour the company’s invoices.
In the Swiss courts, Dredging International Services (Cyprus) Ltd was in June last year sentenced to a fine of one million Swiss Francs and asked to refund 36 million Swiss Francs being illegal profit after it was indicted for allegedly making illicit payments to a former Managing Director of the NPA; former acting Managing Director and former Executive Director as well as a former executive assistant to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan’s Special Adviser on Technical Matters.
According to a report former top officials of NPA, between 2006 and 2011 allegedly collectively received $2.6 million in kickbacks.
Afam-Obi was said to have been paid $157,000 for unknown reasons while another $18 million was transferred to nine offshore accounts of companies where some yet unknown Nigerian officials have interests.
Dredging International Services (Cyprus) Ltd is part of a consortium which formed the Bonny Channel Management Limited that in turn entered into a joint venture arrangement with the NPA to form Bonny Channel Company in 2005.
But while Nigerians remain dazed by the indictment of Dredging International Services, the company recently bided for another NPA job further drawing criticism, but the Managing Director of NPA, Hadiza Bala-Usman, said the organisation has consulted the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, for advice concerning the contract bid by the company.
Usman said she raised the issue during a recent board meeting of the organisation and informed members of the board that the NPA was seeking the advice of the AGF regarding the organisation’s continued relationship with Dredging International.
Dredging International, which was fined $1million by a Swiss court for the bribery scandal, had explained to the court that it gave the bribe to the NPA officials to facilitate payments of its invoices which the authority had failed for more than six months to pay.
The firm argued that the unpaid invoices with the NPA were incurring a lot of interest in the banks and that the NPA members of staff refused to sign and pay it unless they were induced. All three officials of the NPA have been queried over their involvement in the alleged scandals.
The contracts for the dredging of the Lagos, Calabar and Bonny channels involve three companies concessioned by the NPA which in 2006, 2013 and 2014 went into joint venture partnerships with private technical partners for the maintenance of the Lagos, Calabar and Bonny Channels,
This partnership resulted in the emergence of the Lagos Channel Management Company (LCM), Calabar Channel Management Company (CCM), and the Bonny Channel Management Company (BMC) set up for the maintenance of the Lagos, Calabar and Bonny water channels respectively.
But in spite of these arrangements, a higher level of efficiency has not been attained in the management of the water channels and that mega million dollar invoices are still being presented to and honoured by the NPA for the questionable dredging of these channels.
Inside sources in NPA disclose the parastatal is actually spending more on maintenance dredging of the channels than it used to do when the Private-Public Joint Venture Partnership was not in place and estimated that the federal agency has spent between $1billion and $2billion on the dredging of the Lagos and Bonny Channels alone since 2005.
The case of the Calabar Channel, which is a strategic gateway serving the North Central and North East geo-political zones of the country, appears to be worse. With over $13 million paid and another $21 million invoice generating heat, insiders report that no significant dredging has been carried out in the channel notorious for constant siltation which has in turn hampered navigation thus scaring away shipping traffic.
Worse still, it appears monies paid into the Calabar Channel Management Company has not reached the system as the company is reported to be going through serious financial stress including non-payment of staff salaries for months.
The Senate recently, just weeks ago intervened in the scandals when it mandated the Senate Committee on Marine Transport to investigate the “dredging activities, books and records” of the NPA and the three contracted companies.
This followed a motion titled, ‘Senate‘s Intervention to Urgently Stop Monumental Financial Recklessness and Economic Waste by the Nigerian Ports Authority Under Its Joint Ventures with Lagos Channel Management Limited, Bonny Channel Management Company Limited and Calabar Channel Management Company Limited.’
Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, who tabled the motion, alleged that NPA had “failed, refused and/or neglected” to ensure the JVs’ comply with the Marine Environment (Sea Dumping) Regulations 2012 made pursuant to the Merchant Shipping Act 2007; the Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and Other Matters 1972, otherwise called the ‘London Dumping Convention,’ and the 1996 Protocol to the London Dumping Convention.
He pointed out that there were no dumpsites for the management of hazardous dredged wastes removed from the Lagos, Bonny and Calabar navigation channels, thereby leading to sustained severe pollution of Nigeria’s marine ecosystem.
In the case of the Calabar Channel dredging, insiders in the Nigerian Ports Authority disclosed that the channel has remained perennially non navigable to large vessels due to the fraud constantly associated with its maintenance dredging. Indeed, most times no actual dredging takes place even though antiquated dredgers are permanently stationed there even while they are not working and invoices are presented and honoured.
We gathered, the NPA management is presently at loggerheads with the Nigerian Global Engineering and Technical Company Limited-led consortium.

Gunmen on Wednesday, January 3, 2018, shot dead Tanko Amfani Ribah, an Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics. The agent was murdered during an operation in the northern state of Kano. At least 59 anti-drug trafficking officers have died in Nigeria within two years.

In a statement on Friday morning, Concerned Officers asked President Muhammadu Buhari to immediately sack the embattled chairman of the Nigerian National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), retired colonel Muhammad Mustapha Abdallah, for incompetence, humongous corruption and outright theft.

Mr. Musa Ahmed Yusuf, who signed the statement on behalf of “Concerned Officers”, reacted furiously to claims by Mr. Abdallah on Thursday that those who want him sacked were fronting for drug barons.

NDLEA spokesman Jonah Achema had said in a statement that the individuals who go by the name “Concerned NDLEA Officers”, using one pseudo name Musa Ahmed Yusuf to circulate petitions against the Chairman/Chief Executive and Directors of the Agency are “men of the underworld who are troubled by the unprecedented counter-narcotic strategies being put in place by the Chairman/Chief Executive”.

Achema advised that “the media should not allow itself to be misled by the well rehashed and recycled petition by these desperate individuals who keep changing the date of the petition that they have been circulating for months”.

He said some months back, NDLEA “had painstakingly responded to all the so-called issues raised in a well publicized Press Release”.

According to him, “The Agency is, however, delighted that some credible media organizations have rebuffed entreaties of these unscrupulous elements by insisting that the petitions be supported with facts, which they have been unable to provide. This explains why the blackmailers have resorted to the social media”.

But NDLEA’s statement was met with fury on Friday. The Concerned Officers described it as an insult and a sad way to reward the 59 officers who have died under the failed leadership of Abdallah. The high number of casualty under the current chairman of the agency, the neglect of the officers, the disappearance of funds and the total neglect of the agency were some of the reasons motivating them.

“The reaction of the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) retired Colonel Muhammad Mustapha Abdallah to allegations of incompetence and insensitivity to the plight of officers is a slap on the Buhari led government and anti-corruption agencies in the country,” the Concerned Officers said.

“On the 3rd of January 2018, armed bandits shot and killed Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics, Tanko Amfani Ribah in Kano during an operation. This brings the total number of officers that have died under Abdallah to fifty-nine in two years.

“It is an insult to our sensibilities for Abdallah to sermonize on life expectancy after neglecting the welfare of officers. We are concerned because of the disturbing number of casualties and the lack of payment to the families of the late officers.

“We are equally worried because of the amount of money Abdallah has spent on injudicious foreign travels when no payment has been made to the fallen heroes. We dare Abdallah to show proof of payment to the families of these fallen heroes. Besides, the worrisome deaths of our fellow officers without soccour, we are three ranks below our normal ranks.

“How can Abdallah call the legitimate demand for justice as blackmail? How can you describe valid allegations as worn-out? It is wrong to beat a child and expect the child not to cry. Under normal circumstances, Abdallah ought to be in jail for financial impropriety and administrative nonchalance.

“Can Abdallah deny the fact that officers have been stagnated in one rank? Can Abdallah deny the total blackout at the Ikoyi Lagos office of the Agency in the past two years? Can Abdallah deny the non-payment of imprest to commanders since he assumed office? Can Abdallah deny the escalating cases of drug trafficking and abuse in the country since he assumed office?

“Can Abdallah deny that the names of late officers in the past two years are false? Why has he not told us how many foreign trips he has made in two years? What then is blackmail? Why did Abdallah fail to provide life insurance policy and intensive medical care for officers? Why did he fail to regularize promotion?

“We call on the relevant Agencies of government to come to our rescue. Until there is justice, we shall not relent in pushing forward our valid demands”.

A prostitute went back to work in a notorious red light district just 30 minutes after giving birth, a Police Community Support Office has revealed.

Jacqui Fairbanks, has been helping the sex workers in Hull’s Hessle Road for ten years and says there are currently around 40 of them working in the area at various times.

Many come from backgrounds where they have been abused physically and sexually while many of them are homeless and sleep on sofas.
Mental health problems are common and there are problems of trafficking and coercion by pimps and boyfriends, explained the officer.

‘One woman had a baby and, within half an hour, was back out on the streets. That’s how desperate some of these women are,’ she told the Hull Daily Mail.

‘This isn’t Pretty Woman, I’m afraid. Some rich punter isn’t going to come along and sweep these women off their feet and live happily ever after.

‘Our problem is that these women will not come and deal with us. Their self-esteem is so low that they enjoy the attention they receive and that is really sad.’

PCSO Fairbanks said the age ranged women in their late 20s or early 30s to a couple of women in their 60s though ‘thankfully we don’t have any young girls on the streets in Hull’.

When it comes to customers said: ‘We have lads as young as 17 or 18 using these sex workers and the age range goes up to those in their 80s.
‘They are all from different backgrounds and cultures. There are those who are very affluent and those who are unemployed.’

She said that the police work work very closely with other agencies, such as social services, the Together Women Project. Lighthouse, the Vineyard and Humbercare.

PCSO Fairbanks says the lack of sympathy for prostitutes can be unfair.

‘There is a perception that these women are all on benefits but that is not always the case. For many, this is their only source of income.

‘At the end of the day these women are somebody’s daughter. I try to tell them they are better than this. But all we can do is off them the help through the different agencies.

One thing PCSO Fairbanks is relieved about the reduction in violence.

‘We have managed things better now and there is less violence towards these women,’ she said.

‘There will always be dodgy pimps and violent boyfriends but, otherwise, the women are quick to tell us if they have been victims of violence. We have a better rapport.

‘It has been around ten years since the last murder of a sex worker.’
In a landmark ruling in 2014, section 222 orders were introduced meaning prostitutes and kerb crawlers found breaching the order by loitering, soliciting or having sex, face arrest.

Plain-clothes officers have been employed to catch kerb crawlers approaching prostitutes.

In the last three months, there has been police engagement with 26 kerb crawlers. There has been 16 section 222 orders have been handed out to users and a further 12 warnings issued.

The long-term plan is to put kerb crawlers on courses rather than sending them to court.

In the last three months there has been police engagement with 42 sex workers. There have been 33 section 222 orders handed out, 32 warnings issued and there has been 32 breaches of those orders, sometimes by the same person multiple times.

Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State has branded Ben Murray-Bruce, Senator representing Bayelsa East a liar.

El-Rufai said the business mogul is feeding the public with wrong information about the Lagos-Kano dual track-standard gauge rail system.

Recall that President Muhammadu Buhari had on Thursday commissioned 10 new coaches and two locomotives for the Abuja-Kaduna route.

Reacting to the commissioning of the coaches, the Senator said Buhari should have commended former President, Goodluck Jonathan for “the train ride he enjoyed in Kaduna.”

Noting that the achievement was entirely the handiwork of the Jonathan’s administration, Bruce added, ”Nigeria should give honour to whom honour is due”.

In his reaction, the governor called out the lawmaker, saying he, Bruce, was wrong in his claim.

El-Rufai noted that former President Olusegun Obasanjo designed and raised the financing and started the “EPC of the Lagos-Kano dual track-standard gauge rail system, and the Abuja Light Rail.”

In a tweet via his Twitter handle, the governor noted that the immediate past President was not part of that government.

El-Rufai said, “Wrong Distinguished Senator! The Obasanjo administration which Jonathan was not part of, designed, raised the financing and started the EPC of the Lagos-Kano dual track-standard gauge rail system, and the Abuja Light Rail. Yar’Adua-Jonathan stalled both projects for two years!

Apostle Joshua Mone of Voice of Liberty Intercessors Ministry, has declared that the presidential seat will become empty this year.

The clergyman made the disclosure while releasing his prophecies for 2018.

He also warned former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar to be careful of those around him as he makes effort to become Nigeria’s president.

Addressing his members, Mone, however, described the New Year as that filled with supernatural surprises.

He also called for prayers for Nigeria, saying the unity of the country is gone.

Mone said, “2018 is a year of supernatural surprises.

“I see a year of angelic encounter/help.

“The church shall become a home for many.

“I see young ministers/Pastors emerging and old ones bowing out.

“I see a fresh attack on the church through policies and actions.

“The scandal against a popular preacher shall be exposed.

“I see a year of expectant mothers shouting for joy.

“I see a year of marital celebration.

“Nigeria must pray; the strength of Nigeria as a nation is gone.

“I see a year where the mighty in government and the politically protected shall be brought down.

“I see a new financial policy.

“I see a year of political trouble and heavy assassination

“I see many politician being replaced due to terrible health issues

“I see arrest in politics; this is against opposition parties

“I see terrible genocide that has never been recorded in decades in Nigeria happening

“I see the earth shaking

“Nigeria must pray and take measures against earthquake

“I see more bomb explosion, but it is political

“I see fire outbreaks. This following people must pray; Banks, Tank Farms, Fuel Stations, Major Markets and Schools.

“Atiku oh no! Watch your back.

“I see the Presidential seat empty

“I see a mighty wind blowing through the West to the East

“I see six (6) government in serious trouble

“Nigeria Police Force shall be reform

“I see replacement of Service Chiefs

“I see great movement from the North to the South and East; this movement is dangerous

“I see a Governor being assassinated

“Occultic ministries/organization shall be heavily discovered and exposed

“I see high level of blackmailers emerging; carefulness is required

“President Donald Trump will face more political and religious attack but God is with him

“The aviation department must put measures in place; I see missing plane

“China needs prayer; I see ball of fire

“I see a new political party prevailing

“The Governor of Delta state must pray; I see conspiracy and attack

“Ritualist shall increase; the children and women must be carefully watched over

“I see a Governor’s convoy under serious attack

“I see a year where the mighty shall be brought down and the small shall be lifted high

“A popular university will experience serious challenges due to government policy

“I see deportation

“I see the Naira sinking

“I see a new Delta State

“Liberty attack shall bring her great honour

“I see high circulation of money

“2018 is a year of the unexplainable and unexpectable

“I see global war

“I see fraudsters being caught

“I see a new face in Uvwie

“The Chairman of Uvwie Local Government must pray; I see conspiracy, set-up and serious opposition

“I see great development in Ekpan and Effurun

“Bayelsa needs prayer

“I see great opposition in Warri South and Warri South – West

“Chevron must not go!

“I see a year of great wisdom

“A popular shopping mall shall face serious attack.”

The abductors of three Catholic reverend sisters and three aspirants for the convent have demanded a ransom of N20m for their release, the THEMOMENTNG.COM learnt.

The reverend sisters, from the Sisters of the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus (EHJ) convent in Iguoriakhi, in the Ovia South-West Local Government Area of Edo State, and three other females, were kidnapped by gunmen on November 14.

The victims were said to have been taken away in a speedboat.

The sisters were identified as Aloysius Ajayi, Frances Udi and Roselyn Isiocha, while the other three females, identified only as Vivian, Mariam and Anna, were aspiring to join the convent before the incident occurred.

It was gathered that the kidnappers stormed the religious community at about 11pm and forcefully took their victims away.

A source told our correspondent recently that the kidnappers earlier demanded N50m but later reduced it to N20m.

The source stated, “They demanded N50m and, subsequently, they reduced it to N20m. As a matter of fact, the EHJ has been praying and I know very well that the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin and security personnel have been trying to see what they can do.

“But it all boils down to the kind of issues we have in this country. If it were to be in saner climes, one would have been able to, at least, pinpoint the location (of the kidnappers).”

Efforts to reach the head of the convent, Sister Agatha Osarekhoe, and the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Johnson Kokumo, for comments were unsuccessful.

They also did not respond to text messages sent to their phones.

Meanwhile, a Catholic priest, Fr. Kevin Anetor, has launched an online campaign for the release of the victims.

It was also gathered that the archdiocese cancelled its annual religious get-together because of the development.

Anetor, in a Facebook post, decried the continuous captivity of the sisters, who had spent 46 days in the kidnappers’ den.

The priest, in the Facebook post, said, “It’s been many weeks already and our sisters have yet to be returned to us. Please, let’s all do something as we continue to pray for their safe release. Join the social media campaign. Share till something positive happens.”

He told our correspondent on the phone, “Sisters are not millionaires. Where do they expect them to get money to pay ransom? First of all, our prayer is that they are safe and the second thing is that they are released safe and sound.”

This is inexcusable since the incident occurred over a month ago. The abductors have remained silent, and they have not been reported to have asked openly for any ransom for their release. The women are not just religious but they belong to a rare breed of citizens in that they care for the vulnerable among us.

According to a source in the convent, “They live in the place (community) and do charity work. They go about teaching children and praying for people. But we do not know why they (kidnappers) had to pick on them.” The hope is that they are still alive. But information about their whereabouts and conditions is virtually nonexistent. According Sister Agatha Osarekoe, “we do not have the details. But we are asking that they should please release them.”

The Pope drew the attention of the international community to their plight, appealing to the hoodlums to release the women. He uttered those words when he was addressing adherents in St. Peter’s Square in Rome. While praying for the nuns he also included “all the other persons who find themselves in this painful condition” to be free in time for Christmas.

“From the heart, I unite myself to the appeal of the bishops of Nigeria for the liberation of the six Sisters of the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus, kidnapped roughly a month ago form the convent in Iguoriakhi,” the pontiff said, referring to the city in Southern Nigeria where the sisters resided.

“I pray with insistence for them, and for all the other people who find themselves in this painful situation,” the pope said. “May they, on the occasion of Christmas, finally return to their homes.”

The pontiff then led the crowd in praying the Hail Mary for the missing nuns.

It is painful indeed that while many Nigerians spent their yuletide in joy and jollification, the nuns could not enjoy their austere life in peace during the festive season. Testimonies of persons in custody indicate that they are usually in perilous conditions. Although most tend to come out alive, we have heard of a few deaths. Hence the fears and prayers for the nuns.

Although the story of the six nuns in Edo State has gained much attention, there are others in the abductors net. Three other nuns were kidnapped by hoodlums on their way to Abuja a few days after the Edo incident. They were not the only victims, the driver was also taken away. The names of the abductees are Mother Angeleen Umesurike, Sisters Anabilis Onuoha and Kate Nweke. According to a release from Sgr. Gerard Lopez, the vicar general of the Diocese of San Bernardino: “We do not yet know who are responsible for this terrible act and the hoodlums have not yet indicated what they want for their release. All the sisters are praying seriously for God’s interventions for their immediate release.”

The Abuja incident is still relatively muted and it has also indicated that hoodlums find the prospect of holding nuns attractive.

In Kogi State, Sister Blessing Olowojoba has also been reported kidnapped in Okene. This incident predated the others as it happened July 7 this year. She belongs to the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus.

The nuns do not fit into the standard fare of victims. They are not money bags. They do not work for any politicians. They are not in the showy club of Nigerians who want to be seen, heard and praised. Nuns are humble, unobtrusive and socially reclusive. They do not seek anyone’s attention except to help or proselytize.

Hence the silence of the Inspector General of Police should be condemned. Not even the Commissioners of Police in Edo and Kogi States as well as Abuja have engaged the public on the subject.

People don’t expect nuns to be attacked because of what they represent. The recent spate of kidnappings calls for the Catholic Church to work with the Nigerian government to step up security for their religious order.

The fear now is that the Catholic Church may be compelled to restrict the activities of the nuns in order to protect them for the ravages of hoodlums.

Last year, two nuns were rescued in Ondo State, but it is a risky business to rely on armed strategy to get these women to safety. Hence preventive measures should be stepped up in convents around the country.

Ibe Kachikwu, minister of state for petroleum resources, says its a shame that Nigeria cannot refine its crude oil after 40 years of activities in the downstream.

Kachikwu said this on Thursday when he appeared before the senate committee on petroleum (downstream).

He said said the ministry and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) were working round the clock to find a solution to petrol scarcity.

As part of the solutions to permanently end the scarcity, Kachikwu said the country’s refinery needs to be functional.

“In what I might call an emergency before the work that we are doing on the refineries that would be finished sometime in 2019,” Kachikwu said.

“I want to remind that over that over two years we haven’t had queues. We are spending night and day to find solutions to nip this in the bud

“Ultimately what this country needs is to have its refineries working and I have said that it is shameful that after 30, 40 years of activities in the downstream, cannot produce sufficient [petroleum products]. I have said nobody sells crude in its form in the world and we have to have the technical capacity to do this.”

He listed non-payment to marketers as one of the reasons for the scarcity. The minister also expressed regrets that some people took advantage of the situation.

Former Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has reacted to reports of her making a voice recording ahead of 2019 election.

The former Minister described reports of her making political utterances and photographs circulating on social media as “fake.”

In a statement she signed and sent to THEMOMENTNG, Iweala said the fake reports about her were the handiwork of political detractors.

The statement reads, “It has been brought to my attention that a number of fake news items with my photo and fake voice recordings of me making political utterances are circulating on social media.

“I want the public to beware of such fake news items. They are being put out by politically motivated people with malicious intent.

“It is the 2019 political season and such people are desperate to destroy and distract for power.

“I want to state categorically, as I have always done, that I will not be distracted from the focused international assignments I am engaged with.”

Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mr. Babatunde Fowler, has been named among the world’s 50 most influential tax personalities and institutions by the authoritative publication, International Tax Review, in its Global Tax 50 2017.

The rankings, which are in their seventh year, provide a run down of the most influential individuals, organisations, geo-political events and trends in the tax world.

According to the publication’s website, Fowler has excelled in his role as Chairman of FIRS Chairman, which, in 2016, collected N3.3 trillion in tax revenue.

International Tax Review noted that part of Fowler’s success was achieved through the decision to educate the public and the private sector about tax and to lead technology integration in the Nigerian tax system. Other Information Technology projects in the pipeline, noted the publication, are the electronic tax clearance certificate and electronic notification of payment of Withholding Tax credit notes.

“For these efforts, FIRS was awarded by African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF) for the best innovation in Africa for its e-Stamp Duty portal, a web-based self-service tool to calculate stamp duties payable,” noted International Tax Review.

The publication also noted that Fowler marked his first year as ATAF Chairman in 2017 and was appointed to the UN Committee of Experts on International Cooperation in Tax Matters as the first Vice Chairman where, as one of the 25 members, he will serve a four-year term.

International Tax Review equally recognized Fowler’s role in promoting the Voluntary Assets and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS), an initiative of the Federal Ministry of Finance. International Tax Review said it believes that Fowler will continue to strengthen capacity building among Africa’s tax administrations and contribute to global discourse on illicit financial flows.

…Vows to stamp out group’s activities

The Lagos State Government on Wednesday sealed off a Petrol Filling Station, an Hotel and Event Centre belonging to a suspected Badoo cult kingpin, Alhaji Alaka Abayomi Kamal.

The structures, situated along Ijebu-Ode-Itoikin Road in Sabo area of Ikorodu were sealed for violating the State’s Urban and Regional Planning Law of 2010.

The Police, had on December 22, 2017, declared Alaka wanted in connection with series of well-orchestrated killings and nefarious activities of the Badoo cult group in Ikorodu and Epe area of the State.

Alaka is believed to be the ring leader of the Badoo menace.

The State Government, in a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Steve Ayorinde, said the order sealing off the structures was in pursuant to Section 60 of the said Law.

It would be recalled that the State’s Commissioner of Police, Mr Imohimi Edgal, on Tuesday, paraded a Badoo kingpin arrested in Ikorodu axis who confessed to the killings and took Police to their shrine in Imosan, a suburb of Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State where the group’s chief herbalist, Fatai Adebayo was arrested.

Adebayo, who is popularly known as Alese, was said to specialize in administering oath on Badoo members before they go for any operation.

According to Ayorinde, “The Lagos State Government is joining the Nigerian Police in asking the said Alaka to come out of hiding and submit himself to the law in his own interest.

“The State Government has also enjoined the Police to offer the public a reward for any useful information on the owner of the Alaka Filling Station, Hotel and Event Centre in Ikorodu.

“The government is once again asking its citizens to go about their businesses without fear. We will leave no stone unturned in keeping the State safe in 2018,” Ayorinde assured.

How does one know a true prophet? When he speaks, it comes to fulfillment. That is the story of this man of God with a special gift of prophecy, Bro. Joshua Iginla.
Every year, several prophecies and predictions are made by powerful men of God concerning Nigeria and the outside world, but as it stands, the founder and senior pastor of Champions Royal Assembly, Abuja, Bro. Joshua Iginla, has persistently led the pack of those who have always got it right; therefore, he is arguably a leading prophetic voice in the world.
The televangelist and philanthropist with prophetic prowess and stunning deliverance ministration has made predictions which have had direct impact on domestic and international affairs in recent years. For instance, he was the first prophet to have warned Nigerians about the invasion of the deadly disease, Ebola a few years ago.
In this piece, we chronicle major world events which were accurately predicted by Bro. Joshua Iginla in 2017.

IPOB
On 10th September 2017, during a live service in his church, Bro. Joshua Iginla gave a word of prophecy concerning Nigeria, specifically regarding Biafra agitation and the form it was to take.
Quoting him, “I see something starting from a small group and it escalated in Nigeria.
“It started from a mini group and its now going high. I see bloodshed but we must pray for Nigeria.
“If there is one thing I want to recommend to the government or those at the helm of affairs, it is caution and there should be no radical decision.”
This prophecy came to fulfillment on Monday 11th September 2017 when the military invaded the residence of the IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, and then tension arose all over the nation, especially the Eastern part.
Watch video here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YgGWCejlAz5ozPEUnJDa3doXDONIItML/view

Robert Mugabe’s resignation as Zimbabwean President
Bro. Joshua Iginla, during his church services on the 14th of May and 2nd of July 2017 had foretold the recent leadership crisis in Zimbabwe.
In his words, “One of the African countries needs to pray against military intervention. I don’t want to say South, North, East or West Africa but one of the African countries should pray against military intervention so that their democracy will not be truncated.”
This prophecy came to pass on 14th November 2017, when Zimbabwe’s military leaders seized control of the impoverished Southern African nation, placing longtime leader, Robert Mugabe under house arrest and deploying armoured vehicles to the streets of the capital, Harare. The events led to Robert Mugabe’s resignation as the president of Zimbabwe, ending his 37-year reign.
Watch video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4A8hJF2NEqc

Uhuru Kenyatta’s re-election as Kenya’s President
On Sunday, July 23rd, 2017, during a live service in his church, Bro. Joshua Iginla revealed how Uhuru Kenyatta would be re-elected as the president of Kenya. The man of God further disclosed that though the election would be marred by crisis and violence, Kenyatta would still emerge as the country’s number one citizen. In his words, “The nation of Kenya has to pray. I have been praying and I see a leader sitting on a seat. Three were taken out of the four legs of the seat and I saw this leader still sitting and didn’t fall. I don’t know how he managed to remain seated.”
This prophecy was fulfilled on Thursday, 26th of October 2017. The country of Kenya was enmeshed in brouhaha over who takes over its helm of affairs as the first election conducted a month earlier was annulled by the Supreme Court and a fresh one declared. True to his words, President Kenyatta was declared winner again.
Watch video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=ukDQMwTcLTY

AERO Contractors’ averted plane crash
On 22nd of January, during a live service, Bro. Joshua Iginla gave a word of prophecy concerning a Nigerian domestic airline.
In his words “I saw myself standing by a domestic airline, and while it was about to take off, there was an attempt to crash the airline.”
This prophecy came to pass on April 18th when a major tragedy was averted after an Aero Contractors’ flight from Port Harcourt headed for Lagos suffered a mechanical fault 20 minutes after takeoff.
From the video shared on the social media, the cabin filled up with smoke and distressed passengers expressed fear – many were heard praying, while others wept. Fortunately, the aircraft landed safely.
Watch video here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AVGHvhR5kH2e14Tl8li_WtRBLd5Kds91/view

President Buhari’s health rush back:
Early March 2017, roughly one week before the return of President Muhammadu Buhari from his first medical trip, Bro. Joshua Iginla, during his church services gave a word of advice to the Nigerian president, Muhammadu Buhari to take good care of his health before returning. He prophesied about President Buhari rushing home to Nigeria without proper medical approval. In his words “I have a message for our president. The Lord says he should take care of his health.
“Do not allow politicians to use your life to play politics. It’s only the living that can rule Nigeria. I saw a vision where people hurried him to wear the boot and come home only for him to be rushed back.
“The reason is because there was an unfinished business medically. Let your persecutors persecute you and say whatever they want to say but make sure you give your health attention. It’s only the living that rules. The throne is yours and nobody can occupy it. That’s why you must stay alive.”
This prophecy was fulfilled on Sunday 7th May, 2017 as President Buhari jetted back to London for medical treatment the second time. He spent only 58 days in Nigeria before rushing back.
Watch video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=WKwCPdFJWgY

Angola presidential election
On 30th April 2016, Bro. Joshua Iginla prophesied that he saw the ruling party in Angola retaining the presidential seat.
“I still see the ruling party succeeding and being on the throne,” he had said.
Confirming this prophecy, on 24th of August 2017, Joao Lourenco of the Angola ruling party (MPLA) emerged winner of presidential election.

Crisis between English and French speaking people of Cameroon
On 31st December 2016, during the Cross-over Night and Candle Light Service, Bro. Joshua Iginla revealed that the crisis between the French and English-speaking people of Cameroon would deepen and worsen but God would intervene and restore peace.
His words: “The crisis between the French and English speaking Cameroonians will deepen but God will bring peace to the nation.”
Confirming this prophecy, the year 2017 opened up with the crisis deepening and getting worst.
Watch video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4_95l8fwF0&t=10s

Niger and Lagos State flood
On 31st December 2016, during the Cross-over Night and Candle Light Service, Bro. Joshua Iginla prophesied concerning the issue of flood in Nigeria.
His words: “I see the issue of flood resuming, I see heavy downpour, and this will really affect a lot of buildings.”
Confirming the prophecy, massive flood took over Suleja, Niger State and Lagos Island on Saturday, 8th July and Sunday, 9th July 2017, respectively.
Watch video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oymQ3Hdiff4

North Korea missile launch
On the 13th August 2017, in a live service, Bro. Joshua Iginla gave a word of prophecy on South Korea, North Korea and American battle, speaking specifically about the North Korea missile launch and reactions that would follow.
According to him, ‘’I see South Korea, North Korea and America trying to be a referee. We need to be careful. I see North Korea doing something of insult to America and for ego, there might be retaliation.
“There’s something North Korean president wants to do. It’s not a threat, I see something coming out. Why will it be an international insult? Why is there going to be a retaliation? This is what we should pray against. What the North Korea man has gathered isn’t ordinary. We need peace and we should pray for peace.’’
In confirmation, On August 28, 2017, news reports had it that North Korea had launched a missile attack against Japan. In reaction to this, Japanese prime minister said he had spoken by telephone with President Trump. “Japan and the U.S. stance are completely matched,” he said, adding that they discussed ways to tighten pressure on North Korea.’
Watch Video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=n3h6N5WN9q8

Lesotho 2017 Election
On 30th April 2017, Bro. Joshua Iginla in a live service prophesied to the nation of Lesotho, speaking specifically about the 2017 general election and who would emerge as the prime minister.
His words: “I see somebody the current man who is sitting and I see someone who was there previously coming back to reclaim his seat.”
This prophecy was confirmed on 6th of June 2017 as the former prime minster, Thomas Thabane returned as Lesotho’s Prime Minister.
Watch video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=rGqWznTxPTU

South Korean election
On 7th May, 2017, in a live service, Bro. Joshua Iginla gave a word of prophecy concerning South Korean 2017 general elections.
In his words: “I see a man with strong influence being supported by foreign nations and I see the ruling party saying bye to their seat. I see somebody with the sensitive name like Moon.”
Confirming this prophecy, on the 9th of May 2017, Mr. Moon Jae-In won the South Korean election.
Watch video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=Z8KW6LcHbfY

France presidential election
On 31st December 2016, during the Cross-over Night and Candle Light Service, Bro. Joshua Iginla gave a word of prophecy concerning France 2017 general elections and the aftermath.
He had said: “I see a new party pushing the ruling party from the helm of affairs. I see a man not too popular in politics, emerging as the president.
“I see a lot of attack that has to do with terrorism and protest.”
This prophecy was confirmed on 7th May 2017 as Emmanuel Macron of the opposition party emerged winner of the France presidential election.
Watch video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=xLSNSzVZF6k

Rwanda presidential election
On 30th April 2017, in a live service, Bro. Joshua Iginla gave a word of prophecy concerning Rwanda 2017 presidential elections.
In his words: “I see the one sitting on the throne still retaining the seat”.
Confirming this prophecy, on 5th of August 2017, the incumbent president, Paul Kagame was re-elected and declared winner of the poll.
Watch video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wm8-39RJ7Oc

Impeachment charges against South African President, Jacob Zuma
On 11th June 2017, during a Sunday service, Bro. Joshua Iginla gave a word of prophecy about the president of South Africa, Jacob Zuma speaking about his impeachment charges and how he would come out of it.
His words: “Hard times are ahead for South African president, Jacob Zuma but it will not change the position God has put him.
“Nothing can change it except his tenure elapses.”
This was confirmed on 8th August2017 as Jacob Zuma survived impeachment charges, a motion of no confidence with only 29 votes in the parliament.
Watch video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGbIVfv3TAQ

As 2018 creeps in slowly, we wait with bated breath for more earth-shattering words of prophecy from a man whom God uses to send warnings to the world.

…KSA, Wizkid, Davido, Olamide, others headline Eko Atlantic’s grand concert

…State lauds sponsors for supporting Ambode’s tourism vision

The Lagos State Government on Saturday promised Lagosians and visitors a world-class, spectacular finale for the ongoing One Lagos Fiesta holding simultaneously across the five divisions of the state.

An array of A-list artistes, a new set of talented youths that emerged from the Lagos Grows Talent (LGT) competition and a spectacular display of fireworks are some of the “special effects” lined up for the countdown concert, which will usher in the new year and draw the star-studded fiesta to a close at the Eko Atlantic City in Victoria Island, Agege Stadium, Ikorodu Town Hall, Badagry Grammar School and Epe Marina waterfront.

In a press statement signed by the State’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Steve Ayorinde, the 8-Day, 5-Centre fiesta has again highlighted Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s passionate commitment to the promotion of art and culture, development of entertainment and tourism and using the creative sector to engage and empower the teeming youths in the State.

An estimated 300,000 people have thronged the five locations of the fiesta on a daily basis in a multi-dimensional arrangement that has made it Africa’s biggest end-of-the-year artistic event.

“It is a fiesta that has provided direct, indirect and induced jobs to more than 6,000 people like musicians, dancers, technicians, stall owners, brand ambassadors, food and beverage sellers as well as security guards and transport services owners,” Ayorinde said.

He added that the Victoria Island zone for tomorrow’s grand finale will hold inside the sprawling Eko Atlantic City as against the Bar Beach end where the first seven days fiesta held since December 24.

According to the Commissioner, the fiesta train is needed to move from Bar Beach to Eko Atlantic City in order to better appreciate the spectacular display of fireworks that will herald the New Year at exactly 12 midnight on Sunday.

He assured that adequate parking provision has been made for those coming in their cars while shuttle buses would be available at the Bar Beach end from 6pm to take guests into the Eko Atlantic venue where some of Nigeria’s biggest artistes like King Sunny Ade, Wizkid, Davido, Olamide, Falz the Bad Guy, Adekunle Gold, Simi, Humble Smith and Osupa Saheed among others will stage a world-class performance that will be broadcast live on various national and international television and online stations.

Ayorinde added that the same high standard that will be experienced at Eko Atlantic will be seen at the other four venues to give Lagosians a memorable countdown/crossover night experience, in tandem with Governor Ambode’s electoral promise that every part of the State would be carried along in all of government activities.

“The Governor is impressed and happy that citizens’ participation in the fiesta has been exemplary across the five zones and that in spite of the unprecedented turn-out, crowd control has been effective; people have conducted themselves responsibly and no untoward incident has happened,” he said.

The statement conveyed the Governor’s best wishes to Lagosians and urged them to continue in this orderly and peaceful manner till the end of the fiesta tomorrow.

The Governor also expressed gratitude to NBplc, South Energy X, Eko Atlantic, GTBank, Access Bank Plc, Eko Hotels LTD, Pepsi, Dangote Group and JMG among other sponsors and partners whose support has not only made the OLF 2017 incomparable, but has also further developed the creative economy of the State.

Super Eagles defender, Kenneth Omeruo, who play for Kasımpaşa of Turkey on loan from English club Chelsea, on Saturday, 30, December, got married to his fiancee, Chioma Nnamani, in Enugu state.

Kenneth we learnt, proposed to Chioma in September.

He shared photos of their engagement on his Instagram page.

Goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme, on his post wrote “Congrats bro”.

…Cash transaction increased by N50bn in four weeks
…Ambode’s tourism vision taking shape says Ayorinde

The Lagos State economy has received a major boost as spendings in the creative sector records an estimated N50bn cash transactions in the first three weeks of December, according to reports monitored by the Lagos State Government.
The peak in entertainment activities and the huge influx of people from neighboring states and the Diaspora on holiday visits have impacted positively on the economy of the state at a time that corporate sponsorship of the creative sector has also recorded an appreciable growth.
In a press statement released on Thursday by the State’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Steve Ayorinde, various reports, statistics and analyses monitored over the last few days captured an estimated additional spending of about N50bn in the creative entertainment sector alone within the State in the last 25days, thereby reinforcing the profile of the state as the hub of entertainment and tourism and the economic capital of West Africa.
Ayorinde said reports monitoring the current trends show multi-billion naira spendings in hotel accommodations across the State; alcohol and beverage consumption as well as culinary business; visits to resorts, parks, clubs and lounges, live theatre and cinemas; fees for musicians, their handlers and technical staffs as well as ancillary businesses like fashion and clothing, kiddies’ games and toys, specialized taxis and private security guards that all contribute into the tourism and entertainment sectors.
“What this cash-enabled December has shown is a massive growth in the creative economy sector in Lagos State. The entire state is agog, hotels are fully booked from Victoria Island to Ikeja, Epe and Badagry. There is a renewed sense of fun among the citizens and visitors. The volume of entertainment content being created for the pleasure of the citizens and media is unprecedented right from the beginning of the month.
“COPA Lagos Beach Soccer Tournament at Eko Atlantic was a combination of football and musical performances. The Lagos Street Carnival was a demonstrable evidence of the government’s assurance that security and traffic management can now be taken for granted in the state when big shows happen. New cinemas are being launched and all are recording huge box office takings. Four of Africa’s biggest musicians – Olamide, Falz, Wizkid and Davido – have had the biggest concert productions in Africa in the past one week. All in Lagos.
“And we have now entered Day 5 of the 8-day, 5-centre One Lagos Fiesta that is featuring more than 700 artistes, if you add dancers, instrumentalists and participants at the Lagos Grows Talent component of the fiesta. This is an extra-ordinary entertainment value chain that is impacting on the pockets and wellbeing of the people. This is an economic reality that you can only get in Lagos State.”
The Commissioner said not only is this remarkable development in tandem with the vision of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, to make Lagos the creative nerve-centre in Africa, but also to assure corporate sponsors and tourists that the state security and social infrastructure can support the ever growing creative economy landscape.
He said: “This Government has found a nexus between art and prosperity. Part of what we have done with care in the past two and half year is to develop and nurture the entertainment value chain that feeds the creative economy of the state. We are aware and happy that industries in the creative economy supported more than 500,000 direct, indirect and induced jobs in the past 30 months, cutting across music promotion, live entertainment, motion picture, digital media, live theatre and cinemas as well as fashion and culinary businesses.
“The night economy has fully returned and every part of the state is feeling the impact of government in terms of participation in the arts, infrastructural development, security and social amenities.”
Ayorinde said this season had become a “December to remember” and expresses the State Government’s gratitude to the Organised Private Sector that is supporting the OLF and the other entertainment events that have drawn hundreds of thousands of visitors to Lagos from other states and abroad, knowing that the state is safe and there are limitless entertainment options to choose from”.
The statement urged citizens who are trooping out daily to places of interest to follow the advice of the Police to be vigilant, exercise caution and moderation and be law-abiding, assuring them that the crime-free situation will be sustained throughout the year in order for the state to maintain its preeminent position as the preferred destination of choice in West Africa.

The government of Benin Republic on Wednesday said its rejection of Globacom-Benin’s bid to renew its operational license had nothing to do with sanctions against the company either for violation of its regulations or dispute over new conditions imposed for the license.

ARCEP-Benin, the Benin telecommunications industry regulatory authority for electronic communications and post, said in a response to enquiries on Wednesday that the decision was informed by a disagreement over the new price for the license.

“The non-renewal of the license does not result from a sanction, but from the lack of agreement between GLO MOBILE BENIN and the State of Benin on the price of the license,” ARCEP-BENIN said in its response by its Communication & Protocol Cell.

“The end of the GLO MOBILE BENIN GSM standard mobile phone network license does not fit into a sanction procedure, even less of any dispute over the new terms of the license, or between GLO MOBILE BENIN and ARCEP-BENIN, on the one hand, and between GLO MOBILE BENIN and the Government of Benin, on the other,” it added.

ARCEP-BENIN said the operating agreement between the Government of Benin and Glo Mobile Benin SA signed on August 20, 2007 expired on August 19.

In the contractual terms of that license, which has a 10 year validity period, ARCEP-BENIN said all parties, including Glo, had agreed that, on expiration, the renewal of the license could be subject to new conditions.

Consequently, ARCEP-BENIN said Glo Mobile Benin’s request for the renewal of the expired license was reviewed and given favourable recommendation for consideration by the government.

The agency said negotiations between the government of Benin Republic and Glo Mobile Benin were based on new conditions imposed as a result of current economic conditions of the electronic communications and post market as well as the country’s targeted sectoral strategy.

At the end of the negotiations, which was based on the price of the license, ARCEP-BENIN said both parties did not reach an agreement on new conditions for the renewal of the license.

Details of the new conditions were not disclosed by ARCEP-BENIN in its statement on Wednesday.

But, sources in Benin said the conditions by government were aimed at improving service quality to mobile telephone subscribers in the country.

The source said the Beninese telecoms industry authority had often criticized Glo-Benin over poor quality of services on its network, resulting in several operations review procedures opened against the company to demand more injection of investment capital.

Regardless, although ARCEP-BENIN said it was not a contracting party, it believed there was a glimmer of hope the license could still be renewed, if Glo Benin management agreed to the new conditions.

“Only the Government will be able to say if there will be a favourable change of renewal, in case GLO MOBILE BENIN accepts the new conditions proposed,” the statement said.

Globacom-Benin, a subsidiary of Globacom Nigeria Unlimited, with more than one million active subscribers on its network, is reputed to be the fourth largest operator in the country.

The network controls over 11.7 per cent market share of the Benin telecom industry since 2007, after MTN Group subsidiary (Spacetel Benin) with four million subscribers or 45.6 per cent.

ARCEP-Benin statistics showed the other operators to include Moov, former Etisalat Benin, Maroc Telecom Group), with 3.7 million subscribers, or 41.9 per cent market share.

In July 2017, in a bid to break the MTN and Etisalat dominance of the Beninese telecoms market, by competing favourably with Spacetel Benin and Moov, Globacom-Benin was said to have opened talks with ARCEP to increase its control of the market share to 25 per cent.

The Benin government’s response was said to be the new conditions of license introduced, which Globacom found objectionable.

Telecoms operators see royalties paid to acquire operational licenses in Benin as the most expensive in West Africa.

The parent company, Globacom Nigeria Unlimited did not respond to several mails seeking to know they were prepared to shift grounds to accommodate the new conditions for the renewal of the license of its Benin subsidiary.

Apart from several calls and text messages to its Senior Manager, Communications, Andrew Okeleke, official emails seeking the company’s reaction also were not responded to.

Rilwan “Real One” Oladosu, the rising lightweight boxing star, on boxing day, won the N2.5 million cash prize attached to the Mojisola Ogunsanya Memorial Trophy for the best boxer at GOtv Boxing Night 13.

Oladosu defeated Kehinde “Ijoba” Badmus at the event, which took place at Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island.

His speed of mind and fists ultimately overwhelmed Badmus, who put up a spirited showing.

Rilwan “Baby Face” Babatunde, who won the national light welterweight title by defeating Chijioke “Painless” Ngige, emerged runner-up to Oladosu and went home with N1million.

Debutant, Rilwan “Scorpion” Oyekola, was second runner-up and won N500, 000. He knocked out Jimoh “Hogan Jimoh Jr” Lukman in the first round of the lightweight challenge bout.

Two African Boxing Union (ABU) title bouts held at the event, with Nigeria’s Oto “Joe Boy” Joseph and Olaide “Fijaborn” Fijabi winning both by knockout.

Joseph knocked out Abdulrahim Ahmed of Egypt to win the ABU lightweight title, while Fijabi knocked out Shadrack Ignas Kobero of Tanzania to claim the light welterweight title.

Nigeria’s Abolaji “Afonja Warrior” Rasheed successfully defended his West African Boxing Union title against Arye Ayitteh of Ghana, winning by unanimous decision.

In the middleweight category, Matthew “Wizeman” Obinna knocked out David “Cosmas” Awosika.

His Imperial Majesty, Oonirisa Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, The Ooni of Ife, has partnered with Empower 54, a non-profit organization, to create awareness and promote solutions to end malnutrition in Africa, which currently kills 2.3 million children annually in Nigeria.

Empower 54 Project Inc (Empower 54) is a US non-profit organization providing humanitarian assistance since 2003 through health, education, empowerment, and IDP/refugee programs to underprivileged Africans.

According to the Founder and President of Empower 54, Princess Modupe Ozolua, Nigeria’s Minister of Health has declared that “one-third, 33% of Nigerian Children under 5 years old suffer from chronic malnutrition” which translates into very disturbing statistics and many innocent lives lost due to lack of sensitization on early management of malnutrition and accessibility to free treatment.

Princess Ozolua further states: “After Empower 54 evacuated the severely malnourished IDP children from Bama to Maiduguri on June 13th and 15th 2016, we realized more has to be done to save children suffering from Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) beyond evacuating them from high risk zones for treatment. There are countless non-IDP children suffering from SAM all over Nigeria and other parts of Africa that also need help.”

Due to His Imperial Majesty’s dedication to humanity, it’s with great honor that he has agreed to lend his voice and passion to the campaign to eradicate malnutrition in Africa, starting in the countries Princess Ozolua further states: “Empower 54 currently work in; Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

His Imperial Majesty supports Empower 54’s forward thinking and lives changing initiative by stating: “The menace of malnutrition is creeping deeper into the fabric of our society and we must be tenacious in our fight against this colossal beast by creating a better mechanism; adopt policies and strategies that are capable of combating its rapid expansion. Africa is the wealth of the world with huge human and natural resources and we must form a consensus that would scale up nutrition projects for the greater developments of future leaders that are being crippled daily by our collective negligence.”

He further states: “As the Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN), we require holistic and systematic global blended approach in addressing the shade of malnutrition in Africa. I recognize and applaud months of intervention of Empower 54 in subjugating the spread of malnutrition in Nigeria and across Africa. Therefore, in an effort to forge greater participation, it is my sheer commitment and other global partners to advocate alongside the long-term collective aspirations of Empower 54 in championing malnutrition extinction roadmap in Africa.”

Empower 54 will be working closely with His Majesty’s organization, Global Outreach (Ooni of Ife Global Outreach) Initiative, on strategies for his role as Empower 54’s International goodwill Ambassador to end malnutrition in Africa.

As a global goodwill ambassador for Empower 54, The Ooni of Ife joins His Emeritus Archbishop Desmond Tutu (Patron of Empower 54) and Hollywood actress, Kat Graham (Empower 54’s goodwill ambassador for IDPs/Refugees) to work towards impacting lives of underprivileged Africans.