| 8 Guides For A Successful Visa Interview Posted: 17 Jul 2017 03:31 AM PDT A visit to the different embassies in Lagos and Abuja will give you a fair idea of the number of Nigerians who want to jet out of the country. Getting the visa for some is like a lifeline. It is either they get it or nothing else. Rejection for them is unacceptable. As such, Jumia Travel shares tips for a successful visa interview.
Forget about all the stories of rejection you have heard
There are lots of stories about the mean consular officers at the embassies and their knack for rejecting visa applications. Do not allow these stories to get to you. Have a positive mental attitude and you will be surprised that if you genuinely respond to interview questions, you will get the visa.
Arrive very early
There is no African time in this case. As early as 7 am some embassies have kicked off their screening. If you are late, your chances of even being allowed into the premises are very slim let alone being interviewed.
Prepare yourself for questions
You should be prepared to say everything about yourself and your work. So, when answering the questions, you should focus on demonstrating that you meet the requirements for getting a particular visa category and of course, do not lie.
Carry with the right documents
It is foolhardy when you arrive for an interview and you do not have the correct documents. Your interview is already jeopardised. It is essential that you carry the necessary documents.
Familiarise yourself with your application materials
Do not just carry the right documents, you have to also familiarise yourself with these documents. Additionally, arrange them in such a way that you can easily access any document when it is requested.
Address any potential language issues
If you have an accent (Yoruba, Hausa or Ibo) that could potentially be difficult for a consular officer to understand you, make sure you speak slowly. At the same time, if you cannot understand what the consular officer is saying, do not be afraid to tell him/her. It is for your own good.
Dress for success
Dress for your visa interview like you will dress for a job interview. You must appear businesslike.
Pray
We are very religious people in Nigeria. We 'love' God so much. There is absolutely nothing wrong with praying for your visa application to go smoothly. However, you must do all the aforementioned. Like they say work and pray.
 culled from Olu famous Mr Olumide's Blog |
| I don’t know if I keep my home intact-Omoni Oboli | Mr Olumide's Blog Posted: 17 Jul 2017 02:42 AM PDT After being married for 17 years,actress and producer,Omoni Oboli is in a good position to give advice on marriage .In an interview with Punch,when asked how she has kept her home intact,she said I don't know if I keep my home intact; I believe God does that for me. There are many women who do the right things and show up at every time for their husbands and still get the short end of the stick. So I don't take credit for it. I have my moments and he does too, but somehow it has never tipped the scale and that's because God made it possible. Nevertheless, I believe that when you understand that you're both different individuals who have become one, then you can try to weather any storm, knowing that if you don't, both of you will have a dreadful life in that marriage. Enjoy it and seek for the things that make for peace because life is too short to waste it fighting.
I have an understanding husband who knows what my job entails and I don't disrespect him, so we assume responsibilities to fill up the gaps that the other is lacking. My career keeps me away from my family often, but with love and understanding, family and career have never been at war in my home.  culled from MPNB Mr Olumide's Blog |
| Bobrisky celebrates his crush Wizkid on his birthday | Mr Olumide's Blog Posted: 17 Jul 2017 02:42 AM PDT Bobrisky took to snapchat to celebrate his major crush,Wizkid who turned 27 yesterday,July 16th. How sweet!  culled from MPNB Mr Olumide's Blog |
| What To Do When A Christian Leader Fails You Posted: 17 Jul 2017 02:31 AM PDT Leaders in the church aren't exempt from sin. No one is. We don't expect perfect people to lead our congregations, create our resources, and speak into our culture. But we do expect them to uphold the Bible's authority. We do want them to remain faithful to Christ. So what are we to do when a respected Christian leader fails the church, in any context?
How are we to respond? Rejoice in God's Unchanging NatureGod is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it? (Numbers 23:19) God is immutable. He never changes his mind. He makes good on what he says he'll do, and he upholds every word he has spoken. Think about all the plans God has made and communicated to us, plans he had formed before eternity past, and consider how he's been faithful to fulfill them. Think about his goodness to keep his promise of salvation to unworthy sinners. Think about the unbreakable new covenant of Jesus' blood, poured out for the forgiveness of our sins. As we consider the leader who has changed, we can rejoice in our unchanging, trustworthy, and true God. He will never leave us, fail us, betray us, or change. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).
Recognize It Could Be You
Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. (Proverbs 16:18)
When a respected leader fails us, it's easy to think, "I would never do that. Shame on them." I'm guilty of such thoughts. But we should be careful because all of us are more prone to sin than we may think.
Have you ever considered what sins you're capable of committing in your lifetime? What about in the next year or week? What about in the upcoming hour? It may seem far-fetched to compare our potential to sin to those leaders who've fallen so drastically…but is it?
"The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?" (Jeremiah 17:9). God's Word tells us it's not drastic to think this way because the human heart is complex and perplexing, deceiving us into pride (believing we'd never do such a thing) or into sin itself (trading God for temporary pleasures). Sometimes such pride can actually lead to sin, as Proverbs 16:18 warns.
When a leader fails, we'll be helped by recognizing our proneness to wander from God's ways and Word. We should praise God for the good gift of his Holy Spirit, who lives in us, convicts us of sin, and empowers us to walk in holiness and truth; and we should always, always be on guard against the deceitfulness of our flesh, openly confessing sin and temptation to our faithful, just God (1 John 1:8-9).
Respond with Caution and Humility
Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips! (Psalms 141:3)
In the age of social media, blogs, and instant news, it may feel like we have permission to comment on anything and everything, whether we know all the facts or not. It may seem like there's an open door to air our grievances and speak our minds, and there may be—but that doesn't mean we should. Wisdom responds with caution and humility; it doesn't react in haste.
"Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear" (Ephesians 4:29). This verse doesn't say, "Let no talk come out of your mouths," but "let no corrupting talk." There are indeed times and contexts for us to speak into situations with godly wisdom; we aren't to sweep destructive beliefs and outcomes under the rug. But we are to exercise caution and humility so our words reflect the truth and do not corrupt.
We should also consider what we know to be true – or don't know – about any given situation involving another person. Many times, we don't know every detail, nor do we see the context clearly—yet another reason to use caution and exercise humility before we respond.
When a leader fails us, it's tempting to react and speak from hurt, disappointment, and anger. But God in Christ calls us to wisdom, to keep watch over our lips, so our response builds up and doesn't add to the tearing down that's already in action. Sometimes, this means taking a step back to pray and process the situation before saying anything.
Remember Your Leaders in Prayer
…I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
Finally, pray. Pray for your pastor, your elders, and the board members of your church. Pray for church staff and volunteers. Pray for Christians who've been entrusted by God with large, public platforms, who influence many people. Pray because sin is real, human hearts are deceitful, and the enemy is looking for more leaders to devour.
God hears the prayers and pleas of those whom he's set apart for himself (Psalm 4:3). As you consider the leaders who've failed you and the church at large, meditate on God's promise from Deuteronomy 31:6: "Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you."
[written by Kristen Wetherell, a writer and Bible teacher]
 culled from Olu famous Mr Olumide's Blog |
| Buhari's Health: I See Flag At Half Mast - Primate Ayodele Posted: 17 Jul 2017 01:31 AM PDT Primate Babatunde Elijah Ayodele has reacted to the Supreme Court's verdict, which returned the Ahmed Makarfi-led National Caretaker Committee as the lawful leadership of the PDP. The popular prophet, in an interview with The Sun, also speaks on ongoing issues in Aso Rock. Here are the excerpts; In your predictions published on August 14, 2016 you alluded to the fact that only the faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Ahmed Makarfi could revive the party. Now with the Supreme Court having ruled in favour of the former Kaduna State governor, is that an indication that the party will bounce back? We have just started. With Makarfi back in the saddle PDP will be on its way to gradual recovery if they take the right steps. As it is PDP needs proper cleansing. Makarfi can still bring the party back but if the party brings the wrong person for the presidential election in 2019 the party may not win. Then APC will now have crisis with Makarfi returning except they are able to put their house in order and re-strategise if the party is to retain power. At end of the day it may neither be APC nor PDP that will get the central if they fail to present sellable candidates. I don't want to talk about candidates now; at the appropriate time I will reveal that. What I am saying is that Makarfi can still stabilize PDP. What happens in Osun does not mean that PDP is back. They should reorganize the party properly and do the right in the party.
At the same time APC is cracking. If APC wishes to retain the Presidency they should also ensure they put their house in order. Then the vice president's life is in danger but God will see him through. Many things will still be exposed about the plots against him. There are so many things we don't see now; the vice president is struggling against the cabal. As it is now the villa is vacant.
What do you mean by this?
We still need to pray very well for Buhari to recover quickly. He may not be stable till the end of his term. I am also seeing a big referendum coming in Nigeria but I cannot see when or how it will come because God did not show me that. Honestly, Buhari needs prayers. His family needs to pray very well for him. I am not saying the medical treatment he is receiving will not work, but it is not the lasting solution. It is only God that can sustain his life. Buhari must not die because if he dies it will affect a lot of things in the North. But I see the national flag being flown at half mast but I don't know where that is coming from. Oyegun's seat is shaking. His position will be in crisis if Buhari fails to continue.
The agitation for the state of Biafra is still on. What is your view on it?
Nnamdi Kanu's life is at risk especially because of the way he talks, his misuse of words. Forget about all he is doing, let him continue to pray to the dead souls. Kanu will not lead Biafra. Biafra vision may be actualized in the nearest future, he will not lead the Igbo to actualize the vision. He is taking some wrong steps that will fail him to actualize his dream as a leader of Biafra. Then the Igbo should not expect the Presidency in 2019. Their time has not come. I am talking as a prophet not as a politician. Kanu is still going to face a lot of challenges and if he is not careful enough, he may miss it. He must be careful so that he doesn't lose his life in the cause of this struggle. He needs to be extremely careful and watchful.
There will be election in Anambra although there will be crisis. If the governor remains steadfast with his party APGA God can help him to sustain that seat but he if he attempts to take wrong steps, he will see the other side of the voters. In a nutshell Nigeria is sitting on time bomb.
No party can do it. That is why I said Buhari should leave the issue of corruption because if we continue to play money politic, the fight against corruption will continue to be a mirage, even the EFCC cannot effectively fight corruption...until we stop money politics.
 culled from Olu famous Mr Olumide's Blog |
| Halima Abubakar Back From Hospital, Looks Different Posted: 17 Jul 2017 01:01 AM PDT Since after her fibrosis operation in India, Halima Abubakar has been in and out of hospital. I hope she realizes on time that she needs prayers at this time and seeks same, sincerely.
Above is her before and after photos. We wish her well.
 culled from Olu famous Mr Olumide's Blog |
| N-POWER Releases New Test Assessment Date Posted: 17 Jul 2017 12:01 AM PDT N-Power has announced the new assessment date for those that haven't received Their Eligibility SMS. Below are the details as released: July 15th N-Power Tax July 16th N-Power Tax July 17th N-Power Tax July 18th N-Power Tax July 19th N-Power Tax July 20th N-Power Health July 21st N-Power Health July 22nd N-Power Health July 23rd N-Power Health July 24th N-Power Health July 25th N-Power Agro July 25th N-Power Agro July 26th N-Power Agro July 27th N-Power Agro July 28th N-Power Agro July 29th N-Power Agro July 30th N-Power Agro July 31st N-Power Agro August 1st N-Power Agro August 2nd N-Power Teach August 3rd N-Power Teach August 4th N-Power Teach August 5th N-Power Teach August 6th N-Power Teach August 7th N-Power Teach August 8th N-Power Teach August 9th N-Power Teach August 10th N-Power Teach August 11th N-Power Teach August 12th N-Power Teach August 13th N-Power Teach August 14th N-Power Teach August 15th N-Power Teach August 16th N-Power Teach
 culled from Olu famous Mr Olumide's Blog |
| 5 Things You Should Know About The Tech Industry Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:31 PM PDT There is a lot more to the tech industry than we realize. There are many opportunities to explore in the industry and many misconceptions to dispel; there are also some dynamics to understand, the knowledge of which can help you make smart investments in the tech industry. Jumia Travel shares 5 things you should know about the tech industry.
The Industry is Not all About Coding
The tech industry consists of a lot more than coding. There are lot of jobs and technical skills available in the tech industry aside coding and programming, some of which include: design, data analysis, setting up systems and processes, project management, technical writing, web hosting and so on.
Proficiency in Coding Does Not Depend on How Good You are at Math or Science
Coding is about problem solving and logic, and you will find that some of the best coders admit to not being good at or even liking math or science. In fact, coding is easier learned by those coming from backgrounds or professions where problem-solving skills, as well as attention to detail, are involved.
There is Room for Creativity
Most people associate technical jobs like those in the tech industry, with a lack of creativity. However, the tech industry is all about finding creative ways to solve the world's tech problems. Aside the data science field in the tech industry, there is also a design field that relies on creativity to come up with attractive phone and laptop designs, as well as website designs and other tech designs we see.
The Tech Industry is Not Entirely Male Dominated
It is true that a large percentage of the tech industry is made up of men, but the industry is not completely male dominated. For example, the data science field of the tech industry is mostly made up of men, but the design fields have a larger percentage of women. As much as there might be a lot of men in the tech industry, there is still room for women who are passionate about tech.
Profit Margins Really Matter
In the tech industry, competition tends to be fierce and this makes it difficult for companies to maintain their profit margins over the long term. This can lead to disastrous results for investors, as a result investors are very particular about profit margins. Therefore, before buying stocks in the tech industry, investors carefully consider if the company will be able to maintain its pricing power over the long term.
 culled from Olu famous Mr Olumide's Blog |
| FG orders DISCOs to distribute 3m hoarded prepaid metres Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:24 PM PDT  The Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola SAN By Ese Awhotu with agency report The Federal Government has ordered Electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOs) to distribute three million pre-paid metres to electricity consumers.
Babatunde Fashola, who is the Minister of Works and Housing, told the News Agency of Nigeria that the government had in 2003 awarded contract for the meters but they were not supplied.
"In 2003, the government awarded a contract for three million meters but they were not supplied.
"I inherited it, they were in court and I am trying to take it out of the court so that we can settle and start the supply,'' he said.
According to the minister, more than three million pre-payment meters are to be rolled out under the Federal Government's intervention programme.
He said that, the intervention followed the incapacity of Electricity Distribution Companies (DISCOs) to meter all the houses of consumers across the country.
He said that metering houses in the country was facing some challenges as there was no accurate database of actual consumers in the country.
His words: "There is a database of six million households; it is a faulty base because we have more than six million households in the country.
"There are four types of consumers – R1 (poorest consumer), R2, R3 and maximum demand consumers — and they are not on the same plan.
"DISCOs need to go into these houses, do an audit to determine the type of meters to install.
"If you have a wrong meter, you will pay wrong price or bill. A meter is both a safety device and a measuring device; it can under read or over read or cause fire if not properly installed.
"But essentially, the DISCOs must provide meters, it is only fair and let the consumer manage his consumption and billing system because he has a meter.''
On the challenges facing the nation's power sector, NAN reports that, Fashola described the problems as man-made, identified planning, way of life and human behavioural problem as some of the intractable issues.
Others are power wastage, building of houses in difficult terrain without approval, lack of conservation culture and energy theft.
NAN also reports that electricity consumers pay N25,000 (official), N35, 000 (fast-track) for a single-phase meter, while the three-phase models go for N50,000 and above.
Consumers have complained of down payment for several months or a year for the meters without being supplied by DISCOs which has exposed consumers to the user-unfriendly estimated billing system or "crazy'' bills.
Recall that several organizations including ocio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) had called on Fashola to order DISCOs to provide pre-paid meters to Nigerians or face legal action.
SERAP had asked Fashola to "take this step within 7 days, saying that it was the responsibility of this government to give pre-paid metres to Nigerians.
SERAP noted that in several parts of the country, consumers pay more for electricity than in other parts of the world. from peoples daily |
| Melaye’s recall: INEC petitions CJN, seeks reversal of court order Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:24 PM PDT  Independent National Electoral Commission INEC By Ali Alkali The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has petitioned the Chief Justice of the Federation (CJN) seeking to defend its constitutional mandate in respect of the suspended recall process of Senator Dino Melaye.
Sections of the media had reported that INEC was brow beaten to suspend the recall process of Senator Dino Melaye of Kogi West Senatorial District due to pressures mounted on the commission by the Senate.
The threat by the Senate to probe the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFUND where current INEC chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu headed as Executive Secretary was cited as reason for the suspension of Melaye's recall process, suggesting that Yakubu may have erred while at TETFUND.
According to a top official of INEC who spoke in confidence, " INEC has petitioned the Chief Justice of Nigeria on the High Court order on a strictly constitutional matter which if not addressed could set a dangerous precedent that could derail the country's democracy beginning with the general elections already scheduled."
He said by section 69 of the Constitution, INEC has a 90-day limit from the date of recall petition presentation, June 21, 2017 in this case, to complete the exercise.
He explained further: "The Chief Justice needs to address the matter promptly. If not, somebody or people could come up one day to ask a Court to put aside the 2019 General and Presidential Elections Time Table already announced by INEC. When that happens, you can imagine the monumental distortion it will create in the 2019 elections process."
A commissioner at INEC also insisted that there was no link between Senate moves to probe TETFUND and the Commission's decision to put on hold Melaye's recall process.
He said "all INEC did was to obey the Court order restraining the Commission from going further with the process. But you must note that we have gone to Court to appeal the order; to get it vacated ahead the September 29 date fixed by the High Court for the motion on notice.
It could be recalled that the Commission had on Thursday, March 10, this year fixed February 16, 2019 for the next Presidential and National Assembly polls with Governorship and State Assembly elections scheduled for March 2, 2019.
He said that these are all indications of determination of INEC to prosecute its constitutional mandate, a recently appointed national commissioner said what INEC did by scheduling the 2019 polls two years ahead was to land Nigeria's democratic process in the same league with other democracies in the world.
Chairman of Abuja-based League of Democracy Watchdogs, Omeresan Olayinka also observed that "Insinuation linking that decision to the resolution of the Senate to probe whatever they suspect at TETFUND, is neither here nor there. I don't see any connection there. Anything closest to that is a mere coincidence. If not why is INEC moving to lift the order? And why has INEC petitioned the CJN for protection of its mandate constitutionally guide our democracy?"
Meanwhile, a statement by Okechukwu Ibeanu, a national commissioner and acting Chairman of INEC issued on Saturday in Abuja said the reports relating INEC's decision to the Senate's intention to probe TETFUND, where the present INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, previously served as executive secretary, was false and misleading.
He stated that the commission, in line with its issued timetable for the recall, pasted the Notice of Verification at the Kogi West Constituency (INEC Office in Lokoja) on July 10.
"However, on the same July 10, INEC received an order given by the Federal High Court, Abuja, and dated July 6.''
He said that the order in respect to suit filed by Melaye, directed the "parties to maintain the status quo till the determination of the plaintiff's motion on notice.''
Mr. Ibeanu added that the Judge, in granting the relief sought by the Senator, also fixed Sept. 29 as the date to hear the Motion on Notice.
He said that by this date, the 90-day timeframe established by the Constitution for the entire recall process to be completed, would have lapsed.
He said deeply concerned by this situation, INEC considered the court order and its implication for the Commission's ability to carry out its constitutional function regarding the petition to recall the Senator.
He stated that after weighing all the options, the commission, as a responsible organization, decided that it should not be seen to be disobeying a court order, "however inappropriate it may consider the order. from peoples daily |
| Turkish Embassy commemorates first anniversary of coup attempt Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:24 PM PDT  By Ochiaka Ugwu
The Turkish Embassy in Nigeria has commemorated the first anniversary of the failed coup attempt in Turkey which claimed several lives and wounded many others.
Speaking to newsmen in Abuja at the weekend to commemorate the first anniversary of the coup, Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Hakan Gakil stated that some terrorists decided to truncate their nation's democracy by staging a coup which claimed over 250 lives and left many wounded when the coupists bombed their National Assembly building.
Mr, Gakil who also refuted claims that some Nigerian students in Turkey are under custody in connection to the failed coup allegedly sponsored by a popular Islamic cleric, Fethuller Gullen, also denied deporting any Nigerian student at any time, noting that the four Nigerian citizens deported were not students but persons who tried to gain entry to Turkey illegally.
Regarding to the news in the media about the detention of Nigerian students in Turkey, Mr. Gakil said there are no Nigerian students under custody in Turkey. The Turkish police have not detained any Nigerian students. No Nigerian students were deported from Turkey'.
It also stated that, Turkey and Nigeria have been enjoying very cordial relations and Turkish Government attaches particular importance to the enhancement of the relations with Nigeria in every field.
It said, 'More than three thousand Nigerian students have been studying in different Turkish universities with about 29 of them granted new scholarship for the 2016-17 academic year by the Turkish Government.
'Allocations of new scholarships to the Nigerian students constitutes clear example of Turkey's willingness of developing relations with Nigeria in the field of education" he added.
He said the Turkish Embassy in Nigeria have been giving scholarship to Nigerian students as part of the country's collaboration to develop Nigeria's education sector.
"Last year on the 15th of July, there was an unsuccessful coup attempt in Turkey.
Unfortunately, this coup attempt claimed the lives of 250 Turkish citizens and much more severely wounded.
"We are still struggling to overcome this threat to our country
because it was a major trauma for the Turkish people," he said.
He described the incident as the worst act of terrorism as the plotters made use of lethal weapon and fighter jets, adding that they attempted to topple the government by bombing the Turkish National Assembly. from peoples daily |
| UniAbuja Alumni Association elects new exco Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:24 PM PDT  By Usman Shuaibu
The Alumni Association of the University of Abuja has elected ten executive members to pilot the affairs of the association for three years.
The elected officials include; Mr. Musa Thomas (National President), Aloyinlapa Shuaibu Tunde (Secretary-General), Ogbu Collins (Assistant Secretary-General), Ifeoma Arnest (Vice-President) and Barr. Mohammed Eze (National Legal Adviser).
Other executives are; Areh Atama David (National Provost), Olusegun Maiye (Financial Secretary), Johnson John Edache (Treasurer), Ismaila Gambo (Publicity Secretary) and Anthony Adeiza Onwudah (Mobilization and welfare officer).
In an interview with newsmen during the election, the chairman, Alumni electoral committee, Prof. Adegboyega Kolawale who announced the result of the election, described the conduct of the election as a credible one.
He charged the officials to be responsible always in order to move the Alumni to the next level, while advising the losers to accept the defeat in good faith.
Kolawale, who represented the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Prof. Michael Adikwu during the election, disclosed that about eight graduates who presented fake certificates were disqualified to vote during the election.
Also speaking, the National President of Alumni Association of the University of Abuja, Mr. Musa Thomas, expressed joy as he emerged the president of Alumni.
He said his leadership would deem it necessary to partner with the corporate organizations as well as philanthropists to arrest some pending problems affecting the University.
He further said his administration would not hesitate to provide an enabling environment for the students in terms of securing admission into the University.
Thomas who is a lecturer in the Department of Political science, however, said he would take every contestant along for the sake of moving the Alumni forward.
On her part, the secretary, electoral committee, Ms. Gloria Nkem Okoh, Charged the officials to bring other contestants on board in order to contribute their quota towards the development of Alumni.
Okoh thanked the supporters who came out en masse to cast their votes for the candidates of the choice. from peoples daily |
| Niger gov donates N31m to Suleja flood victims Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:24 PM PDT  The Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello From Yakubu Mustapha, Minna. The Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello has approved the release of N30 million to Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NISEMA) to enable it provide relief materials for victims of flood in Suleija.
This is even as he charged for strict adherence to the urban development regulations for safety of lives and property to reduce the attendant high rate of casualty from floods.
Governor Bello disclosed when he paid on-the-spot assessment visit to some flooded areas in Lapai, Suleja and Tafa local government areas of the state.
He explained that the recent collateral and financial looses to flooding were mostly products of non-adherence to urban development regulations as evident in indiscriminate building of structures without recourse to the law, especially on flood or stream plains.
Disturbed by the enormity of the disaster caused by flood in the areas, he stated that, "all these losses incurred both in human and properties would have been averted if our people adhere strictly to urban development regulations.
"It is glaring that most of the affected structures were on the natural flood path. We have to desist from this unwholesome practice and obey simple laws that are meant for our good".
At Gawuraka in Tafa local government area, where a dead body washed away by flood was recovered meters away from the victim's home, the governor directed clearance of all the debris on the over flooded stream to give way for free flow of water and to forestall future disaster.
The governor also visited Checheniya area of Suleja to console a man (Malam Saad Abdullahi) who lost two wives and six children to last week flood and inspected the washed away ductile pipes conveying water to Suleja town by the flood at the Second Gate, Field base area of the town.
He also at Sabo Orehi village in Lapai Local Government area of the state where a bridge connecting the local government to Kogi state was washed off by flood
He then directed the agency to ensure an alternative route is made available to motorists and villagers. from peoples daily |
| UNESCO moves to curtail Internet excesses through media literacy Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:24 PM PDT  UNESCO By Ochiaka Ugwu There is need to engage the populace through media and information to curtail internet excesses which has made led money to use it for the wrong reasons, UNESCO has said.
This was contained in a statement released yesterday by UNESCO's National Professional Officer (Communication and Information) Mr. Olushola Macaulay in Abuja at the weekend and made available to Peoples Daily.
According to the statement, "Over the past years, the number of reported attacks perpetrated by violent extremist groups have risen.
Young people are, however, most at risk. They are the main targets of recruitment through the internet and fall victim to extremist violence.
"In the same vein, the violent and destructive conflicts in the society today are the results of hate speech or unfounded news that has no root or foundation. The stakes are high; fake news, hate speech and violent extremism are affront that need to be checked. This phenomenon alerts us to the steps of losing a generation of youth to despair and disengagement.
"UNESCO is drawing on all of its strengths, to deepen cooperation through education, the sciences, culture and communication, supporting Member States, civil society actors, academia and private sectors in order to prevent and reduce all the mayhems that are createdvia the internet.
"In order to support its member States to face violent extremisms and hate speech, UNESCO has initiated Media and Information Literacy curriculum that lay emphasis on sensitization and capacity building of internet users, for more critical analysis of the information they are exposed to, and that can engender violence.
"Empowerment of the society through Media and Information Literacy (MIL) is an important prerequisite for fostering equitable access to information and knowledge and promoting free, independent and pluralistic media and information systems, to checkmate the excesses created by the use of social media.
It noted that UNESCO is organizing A-2 day Training the Trainers workshop from 18-19 July 2017 in Abuja with a particular focus on teachers and other social media users to sensitize them on the importance of MIL in the social context which will enable them to integrate the curriculum into their day-to-day activities and provide them with appropriate pedagogical methods, curricula and resources.
It also stated that over 60 participants are expected to benefit from the training, raging from the Federal Ministry of Education, National Universities Commission, National Colleges of Education, National Film and Video Censors Board, Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council, Media, Schools and other relevant Agencies. from peoples daily |
| 9 people confirmed dead in Calabar tank farm explosion Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:24 PM PDT The Cross River Police Command has confirmed that nine people died in a fire outbreak that occurred at Linc Oil and Gas tank farm on Sunday morning.
Hafiz Inuwa, the State Commissioner of police, who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria at the scene of the event, confirmed the figure.
Mr. Inuwa added that several other persons, who sustained injuries were currently being treated in one of the hospitals in Calabar.
According to him, the manager of the depot is yet to brief the police on what led to the explosion.
"Up until now, nobody has come out to tell us that this is what caused the fire outbreak.
"We have gone round, we have done what we can do but investigation will later reveal what actually led to the explosion.
"For now, nine people are confirmed dead and many others who sustained different burns are currently receiving treatment in one of the hospitals around town," he said.
NAN reports that officials from the Cross River State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, were on ground to assess the extent of damages caused by the explosion.
A NAN correspondent who went around the depot, reports that the fire outbreak also affected the high-tension cable which connected the depot's electricity transformer, while two vehicles and other important equipment were also burnt to ashes.
The depot manager refused to speak with journalists, saying that he was not authorised to speak at the moment.
But, a staff of the depot, who spoke with NAN under the condition of anonymity, said that the fire outbreak occurred when staff of the depot where discharging the old products in the tanks to fill in the new consignment.
"As we speak right now, the vessel that brought in our new product is just by the port here. Some of our staff were discharging the old product from the tank with a view to bring in the new one when the fire outbreak occurred," he said.s(NAN) from peoples daily |
| Muslim, Christian Interfaith Forum preaches peace, decries hate speeches Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:24 PM PDT From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna The Interfaith Forum of Muslim and Christian Women's Association also known as Women Interfaith Council (WIC) has called on all and sundry to shun all forms of hate speeches and embrace peace in the interest of peaceful coexistence.
The women group also lamented the noticeable increase in violence which includes kidnapping, rape, sporadic killings all of which results in deaths and destruction of properties.
A statement jointly signed by the General Coordinator Hajiya Amina Kazaure, Secretary General Reverend Sr. Anne Falola Ola, Mrs Elizabeth Abuk Christian Coordinator and Hajiya Daharatu Ahmed Aliyu Muslim Coordinator said, "we as mothers strongly advocate for peace in our state and country and condemn in totality the issuance of unguarded and inflammatory statement tending towards hate speeches capable of plunging the country into catastrophic circumstances.
"We urge all residents of the state to be law abiding and to always seek for redress of any wrong done to them or their loved ones through appropriate channels.
"While we as mothers share in the pains of these constant vices of kidnapping, rape, and killings, we appeal to the government and the security agents to further enhance their apparatus /personnel for better security of lives and properties in the State.
"As peace loving mothers who has as its slogan 'women of Faith working together as mothers of a culture of peace ' we are using this medium to join our voices with those of other concerned citizens by calling on every Nigerian to desist from acts that are capable of causing disunity particularly in Kaduna and the country at large".
The women group further noted that in Kaduna metropolis for some time now, "we have enjoyed relative peace and we do not want to see this to be disrupted, because when there is no peace in the land, women and children particularly bear the brunt of the untold hardships brought by violence.
"We are therefore using this medium to call on the government, security agencies and the good people of Kaduna State to be at alert so as to ensure that no agitation by any group infringe on the rights of other citizens or degenerate into violence". from peoples daily |
| Senate probes Chiamaka De-Freitas’ postnatal death in Lagos Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:24 PM PDT  By Ikechukwu Okaforadi
The Senate has begun an investigation into the cause of death of Mrs Chiamaka Glory De-Freitas, who reportedly died as a result of postnatal complication at the Medical Art Centre, Lagos.
The decision of the apex legislative chamber to step in and unravel the circumstances leading to the unfortunate incident followed a petition dated July 4, 2017, by the family to the deceased, requesting the chamber to probe the matter.
Senator Benjamin Uwajumogwu (APC, Imo North) who presented the petition to the Senate, told journalists that the Red Chamber would conduct a public hearing on the matter to ascertain what actually led to the woman's death.
Uwajumogu, who represents the deceased in the apex chamber, said that part of what the legislators would be looking at was whether or not the hospital took prompt and proper action on the Chiamaka before her demise.
In the petition, which was obtained by our correspondent in Abuja, it was alleged that the hospital conducted a second operation on the lady without her husband's consent and after some days of continuous bleeding, she died.
The lawmaker further said that the Senate would also investigate if the doctors who conducted the surgery on Chiamaka were qualified and if the hospital should be held liable for her death.
The senator said, "I have submitted the petition to the Senate to investigate if the hospital has done the proper thing. The information we have is that this young lady was pregnant and was admitted to Medical Art Centre, a hospital in Lagos. She was said to have attended her ante-natal at the hospital and the lady would have to undergo a caesarian operation which her husband assented to, but after the operation, she continued bleeding.
"Her husband (Alindo De- Freitas) asked for a referral to Redington Hospital to handle the post-operation crisis but they refused and insisted that they would conduct an 'expository surgery' which the husband refused.
"The hospital conducted a second operation on this lady without her husband's consent and after some days of continuous bleeding, she died. The hospital then declared that it was the husband's fault for not consenting on time.
"The senate would also investigate if the doctors who conducted the surgery were qualified and if the hospital should be held liable for her death".
According to the petition, the family is demanding the release of Mrs De-Freitas' medical report while seeking for a reevaluation of the medical license of the health care centre by the Ministry of Health. from peoples daily |
| Almakura urges Nigerians to assist govt check flood Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:24 PM PDT  Governor Umaru Tanko Al-makura of Nasarawa State By Umar Muhammad Puma Governor Umaru Tanko Al-makura of Nasarawa state has urged Nigerians to assist government at all levels to avoid the future occurrence of flood that recently ravaged many communities across the country.
The governor made the call yesterday while on inspection of some communities ravaged by floods in extension in Mararaba area of karu local government area of the state.
In a statement issued yesterday by his special Assistant on media and publicity Ahmed Tukur Al-makura said that communities can assist by clearing drainages and avoid dumping of refuse in water channels andc canals.
He explained that excess water would be managed if available channels and drainages are free of refuse that block the passage.
He expressed regret with the recent flood that claims lives in some states while commiserating with the families of those that loss their lives
He said that his administration is doing its best to ensure that channels and drainages are constructed to avoid any devastation while federal government to assist the state to address more challenges of ecological problem in the state capital and environs.
He then appeal to residence and citizens to avoid building on water ways and channels so as to keep the environment safe from ecological problems. from peoples daily |
| Kwali council distributes agro -chemical to farmers Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:09 PM PDT By Paul Efiong To ensure adequate food production which might lead to food
exportation in the council, Kwali Area Council said it has distributed agro-chemical worth thousands of naira to all the registered farmers across the ten political wards of the council.
This was disclosed to our reporter during the weekend by the Head of Agric Department in Kwali Area council, Dr. Alhasan Maji Ibrahim.
Dr. Ibrahim while commending the council Chairman, Honourable Joseph Shazin for such gesture toward farmers further expressed optimism that it could lead to food exportation within the council.
HOD Agric also disclosed measures by his council to boost food production, such as sensitization of youths on why they should venture into agriculture, massive and continuous enlightenment workshops as well as distribution of farms impute to farmers.
He maintained that at current, more people are willing to venture into farming owing to lack of white collar job observing that in his council more farm lands are now being cultivated than in previous years.
Asked to advise young graduates who continually room major streets in search of white collar jobs that do not exist said" Agriculture is the way out, young gradates must grab all opportunities available to them to venture into farming as market forces has already been created for all who want to do so".
He noted with happiness that weeds control chemicals as well as mechanized farming initiated by his council had move several people into farming activities while huge cash is also made at the of the day. from peoples daily |
| Don’t play politics with peoples lives- Sultan Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:09 PM PDT From Ahmed Kaigama Bauchi The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar III haswarned politicians to stop playing politics with people's lives and take proactive measures to ensure peace reigns in all parts of the country.
While condemning all forms of violence and crimes emanating from different sections of the society, the sultan emphasized that the federal government must probe the recent crisis in Mambilla, Taraba state that claimed many lives.
The Sultan stated this when he paid a visit to traditional religious worshipers at Miya village in Ganjuwa local government area of Bauchi state at the weekend.
The Sultan paid a visit to the village to inspect a school being constructed by him for the people of the area, while three persons from the traditional religious worshipers renounced their former religion and converted to Islam.
He emphasized the need for the Da'awa Council to ensure that Nigerian Muslims were understood rather than just being tolerated by the adherents of other religions in the country.
This is just as he called on all Nigerians to come together, irrespective of their different affiliations to resolve national issues that have in recent times become maters of national discourse, noting that all disagreements could only be resolved through dialogues and not violence or confrontations.
He also urged the federal government to handle the controversy surrounding the issue of teaching religious subjects in secondary schools with caution and avoid heating up the polity unnecessarily.
The Sultan tasked those engaged in Da'awa to propagate Islam in the best manner and urged all Muslims to be good ambassadors of the religion by exhibiting good conduct always as thought by the religion. from peoples daily |
| Industrial Training Fund graduates 500 trainees Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:09 PM PDT From Ahmed Idris Birnin Kebbi The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has graduated 500 trainees of the 2016 2nd batch of National Industrial Skills Development Training Programme.
This was at the closing ceremony which took place yesterday at the Waziri Umar Federal Polytechnic Birnin Kebbi.
Delivery his speech, the Director and Chief Executive of the Industrial Training Fund, Sir, Joseph N. Ari, said that the ceremony is one of the key initiatives by Industrial Training Fund to key into the present administration policy of job creation along with the wealth generation.
He explained further that the policy is aimed at ensuring that youths are equipped with skills for employability and entrepreneurship adding that since its inception, the NISDP has equipped over 93,100 youths with various skills for employability and entrepreneurship.
"I am pleased to inform you that according to our tracking and monitoring system, over 70 percent of beneficiaries of earlier phases of the programme are now gainful employed or are successful entrepreneurs" he added.
The DG therefore said that the commitment of the Federal Government and the ITF to skills acquisition is informed by dark and bleak future that lies in wait if urgent and proactive actions are not taken, particularly in the empowerment of the youth and other vulnerable groups.
In his remarked, the Area Manager of ITF in charge of Sokoto area office, Alhaji Inuwa Samaila said that the 500 graduated were involved in the programme were trained on a different skils such as cosmetology, auto -mechanic and welding/fabrication.
He stated that the programme with aimed to impacting the trainee in enhancing self reliant and self employment opportunities.
He then admonished the beneficiaries to use it for the growth and development of the state and the nation at large and also for the consolidation of the change agenda of President Muhammadu Buhari. from peoples daily |
| Nasarawa govt donates land to AEDC for electrification project Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:09 PM PDT From Gambo Ahmed, Lafia In order to improve and support the federal government to supply power in Nasarawa state, the state government has said that twenty –five (25) hectares of land has been donated to the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC)for electrification project in Lafia, the state capital.
Nasarawa state Commissioner for Works and Transport, Engineer Mohammed Yahaya Wada, who stated this during a town hall meeting organized by the Nigerian electricity regulatory commission for consumers in the state held Saturday at the lafia square.
According to Wada'' works has since commenced at the site. The state government also provided access road to the site .we also hired equipment to facilitate the work. power is very important in terms of economic activities. The 330kw power drop project is a welcome development in the state .Nasarawa state has the biggest sub-power station in the northern states
Engineer Wada added that since the assumption of the present administration under the leadership of governor Almakura, the state government in agreement with AEDC has been paying ten (10)million naira for installations in public schools and water works in the state.
Wada further called on the NERC to improve power supply in Nasarawa state as well as expressed concern on the alarming vandalization, unnecessary charges of power bill and estimated billing , adding that NERC should provide reading meters to business outfits, public institutions and homes for accuracy.
In his address to electricity consumers, the commissioner in charge of the consumer affairs of (NERC) Doctor Moses Arigu said that the meeting was aimed at creating a special platform for consumers to make complains to NERC.
According to him, NERC's mandate is to ensure availability of reliable and adequate electricity to Nigerians business ad homes.
The NERC commissioner further stressed that the role of NERC is to ensure that the rights of consumers are protected, calling on electricity consumers to forward their complaints to the consumers complaints unit (CCU) either by written or text messages for proper action towards resolving their problems; adding that twenty (20) branch offices has been established in twenty states as well as nine (9) additional stations will be added before the end of the year.
Arigu further said that the commission has put in place a customer complaints unit handling procedure to enable adjudication of complaints in all the branch offices. from peoples daily |
| Police arrest 3 men with human skulls in Ogun Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:09 PM PDT  From Lucky Lawal
The men of Ogun State Police Command at the weekend arrested three men who are all indigenes of Ogun State in possession of two human skull.
The three men who range from the ages of 48 years to 55years are namely Saibu Popoola, Aliu Ajiroba and Jimoh Ijiola, have been arrested by men of Ogun State Police Command for being in possession of two human skulls.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Abimbola Oyeyemi, the two of the men, Saibu and Popoola were arrested when Policemen attached to Ayetoro Division were on routine patrol and accosted the duo on a Bajaj motorcycle along Idagba Olodo road with a bag which looked suspicious.
He said, immediately the Police decided to quickly conduct a search on them and the two human skulls were discovered in the said bag.
The two men were promptly arrested and taken to Ayetoro Police Station where they were interrogated and investigation conducted.
The suspects confessed to the crime but told the Police that the skulls was given to them by one Jimoh Ijiola who live in Erinpa area of the town.
Getting the information from the two suspect prompted the Divisional Police Officer,DPO Ayetoro Division CSP Makinde Kayode who led detectives to the resident of the accused suspect where he was also arrested.
In his own statement, he denied been the person that gave them the skulls but said they all got it from neighboring Benin Republic and their intention was to use it for money rituals.
Meanwhile, the commissioner of Police CP Ahmed Iliyasu has ordered that the case be transferred to State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department for further investigation and possible prosecution of the suspects. from peoples daily |
| High kidnapping rate in Nigeria worries Defence Corporation Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:09 PM PDT From Mohammad Ibrahim, Kaduna Director General of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria-DICON, Major General Bamidele Ogunkale has lamented over increase rates in kidnapping saying out of the top ten countries with high kidnapping records in 2007, Nigeria occupied the sixth position.
According to him, Nigeria has since 2007 moved up to the third position, behind Mexico and Columbia.
Major General Bamidele Ogunkale made the observation while presenting a paper titled: "The Role of Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria in the face of current security challenges," at the Annual meeting of Nigerian Society of Engineers Kaduna Branch.
The Director General mentioned causes of terrorism in Africa to include poor governance, systemic corruption, rising poverty, unemployment inequality, collapse of social services and infrastructural facilities, unhealthy competition for power, resource control and balanced federalism as well as foreign support.
Major General Ogunkale opined that the challenges faced by DICON are inadequate funding, human capital development, obsolete machines and equipment.
"But DICON is being reposition to meet the security challenges facing the country, when you look at the National security, it encompasses so much such as food security, environment security, health security and military security".
"Effort to mitigate the challenges is collaborative efforts, change of vision, mission statement and logo of DICON, human capital development and training and proposed amendment of DICON Act Installation support for the production lines
He pointed out that to be self-sufficient; DICON is establishing Primal Cap Factory in small arm production which will be a vital raw materials requirement in small arm production before moving into the medium caliber ammunition production.
"Before now we use to import arms so with the establishment of the factory, will be self-sufficient in the production of those raw materials for small arms production and from there we will move into the medium caliber ammunition production".
"Because technology drives quite a number of things so it is necessary for us to collaborate with the Nigeria Society of Engineers to be able to give us advice, come in to help us and move the corporation forward.Being an engineer, you need the security as a body to help you move with the tide of times.
Fielding questions from newsmen, Chairman, Nigeria Society of Engineers NSE, Kaduna Branch, Engineer, Abdul-Rasheed Babalola said due to numerous security challenges in Nigeria, NSE invited DICON to educate its members on the need to embrace themselves as engineer and help the country in any way they could.
Speaking on why DICON is not able to produce quality and long lasting ammunitions for the country, he said It is lack of Government political will to patronize made in Nigeria ammunitions.
"It is lack of Government political will, because an average Nigeria want to patronize imported goods including ammunitions and do not trust the common watch that was made in Nigeria or the weapon that was produced by DICON, " he said . from peoples daily |
| Miyetti Allah blames porous borders for frequent attacks on Fulani herdsmen Posted: 16 Jul 2017 11:09 PM PDT From: Femi Oyelola Kaduna Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, (MACBAN) said porous nature of Nigerian borders is responsible for the free entry and exit of the foreign killers of Fulani herdsmen in parts of Nigeria.
Addressing a press conference at the Correspondents' Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, (NUJ) Kaduna, yesterday MACBAN Assistant National Secretary General,Dr. Ibrahim Abdullahi said, "In Nigeria here our borders are porous, people come in anytime and go out anytime they want, infact it is a shameful thing today that we don't even know those that are indigenous Fulanis or the transhumantFulanis.
"We don't know and that is why people mixed things up, you begin to suspect the Fulani man that you grew up with when anything happens. He has not traveled far where did he get the AK 47."
Abdullahi stressed that "It is either Nigeria opts out of the ECOWAS protocol or we should apply the conditions. We should ensure that anybody coming into the country, we know when he is coming, where he is going and control what they are coming with.
"Another problem we have that you people don't know is that, these migratory Fulanis that come into the country with all forms of weapons, many at times they come in with less than 50 cattle, but when going back they go with thousand cattle rustled from our own Fulanis here. So our economy is also affected.
"One other issue we need to know again is that, some of these countries that Fulanis come from in Africa have crises, like Chad or central African Republic were there is rebellion. Weapons have become like pure water or bread, so people from there see it as normal to hang AK 47.
"So it is left for the government to do the right thing, let us decide who comes in because it is our country, let us decide the terms for the person coming, let us not because of ECOWAS protocol leave everything to fate, that is not going to help us. The truth is that that when you go to your village today you will see Fulanis that have been there since, apart from the knife and the stick that they have and maybe Dane gun for hunting they don't have AK 47. The truth is that these people coming from other countries we have to control them."
Abdullahi who was addressing the press on the alleged killings of four of their members by Kadara and Gwari communities in Kajuru local government areas of Kaduna state said, a kidnap incident took place in the area allegedly by Fulani herdsmen, but instead of trying to get to the root of the matter the communities descended on the nearest Fulani community, a development he said was not good enough.
According to him, the communities and the federal and state governments need to do a lot to stem the tide of violence.
He insisted that there is need for people to understand the different types of Fulanis, saying, " Fulanis are categorized into three, one you have the settled Fulanis every part of the north you have Fulanis that are indigenous to that area. Then you have the semi settled Fulanis, they move but the movement is not constant and is not very far. from peoples daily |
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