Nigerian Gossip

Nigerians to know ministerial nominees next week

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hQU9jZQP-A4/VgxmB9Bg80I/AAAAAAACFgk/7y8aw8HLor0/s1600/list%2527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hQU9jZQP-A4/VgxmB9Bg80I/AAAAAAACFgk/7y8aw8HLor0/s640/list%2527.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 Anxious Nigerians may have to wait till next week to know the ministerial nominees. 
 
It can be recalled that, President Muhammadu Buhari  surprisingly failed to submit the much-anticipated ministerial list to the senate until after lawmakers ended Tuesday’s plenary session. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
But Senate President Bukola Saraki announced this evening on his Facebook page that he eventually received the ministerial list from the Presidency at about 5PM Wednesday. 
 
“About an hour ago, I received the list of President Muhammadu Buhari’s ministerial nominees from the Chief of Staff to Mr. President, Abba Kyari, and the Special Adviser to Mr. President on National Assembly (Senate) Sen. Ita Enang,” Mr. Saraki posted on Twitter at 6:06PM on Wednesday. 
 
It was  however gathered that the ministerial nominees may not be officially known to Nigerians until Tuesday next week owing to the timing of the transmission of the list and the established tradition guiding the announcement of the nominees. 
 
The tradition has been that upon receipt of the correspondence from the Presidency, the senate president would read the content of the letter on the floor, after which a motion for screening and confirmation of nominees would be moved by the Senate Leader. 
 
The names of the ministerial nominees would have been read Wednesday had the presidency conveyed it to the leadership of the Senate at the appropriate time, a senator said. 
 
NE's investigation revealed  that in anticipation of the list, the senate president, Bukola Saraki, had to stay beyond office hours to receive the correspondence from the presidency. 
 
A principal officer at the Senate stated that the Senate President can only read the names on the next legislative date, which is Tuesday. 
 
“This means that all of us will only have the privilege of knowing the ministerial nominees presented by President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday next week,” a senator said. 
 
While explaining the reason the list may not officially made public until Tuesday, he said the Senate does not sit on Mondays, Fridays and at weekends. 
 
“If tomorrow, Thursday, were not public holiday, the list would have been announced before the Senate,” he said. “You know the federal government has announced 1st October to be a public holiday in order to mark our independence anniversary.”

Nigerians to know ministerial nominees next week

Anxious Nigerians may have to wait till next week to know the ministerial nominees. It can be recalled that, President Muhammadu Buhari ...

Fayose to Buhari - 'Stop making selective corruption fight'

20:36 Unknown 0

<div align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X8hLjdPasNg/VgyjRVr7sbI/AAAAAAAABFU/sWyhM9TiIvY/s1600/Fayose-to-Buhari.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fayose to Buhari - 'Stop making selective corruption fight'" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X8hLjdPasNg/VgyjRVr7sbI/AAAAAAAABFU/sWyhM9TiIvY/s1600/Fayose-to-Buhari.png" title="Fayose to Buhari - 'Stop making selective corruption fight'" /></a></div>
 
Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to probe all the past administrations, to prove "he has something to offer." 
 
The governor also said the manner the president would handle the coming governorship elections in Bayelsa and Kogi States "would determine if he likes democracy to grow in the country." 
Fayose said it was unfortunate that despite the nation marking her 55th independence anniversary, her developmental strides had not been commensurate with her age. 
 
According to a statement on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Idowu Adelusi, the governor called for the strengthening of core values for the country to take its pride of place among its peers. 
He also called for greater commitment on the part of leaders to get the country out of the woods while lamenting the current economic situation in the country. 
 
"But today calls for sober reflection, going by events in and around us. The situation has never been this bad in the country and there is nothing to celebrate. 
"Our country is growing in age as an independent country, but there is no corresponding growth in values. Those who are supposed to help propel those core values are muzzling the opposition and the imaginary enemies. The current leadership in the country should have the courage to probe all the leaderships of the past. There should be no sacred cow if truly they have anything to offer. 
 
"The mismanagement of yesteryears, especially since we started the Fourth Republic, should be probed. It will not augur well for our nation if we are selective in the dispensation of justice. Leaders must be equitable and fair to all. Everybody must be diligent in playing our parts. The current civilian dispensation in the country must be supported and allowed to thrive," he said. 
 
The governor urged the Federal Government to address the dwindling economy and stop selective fight against corruption and the harassment of the opposition. 
"If President Muhammadu Buhari believes in democracy, he will be judged in the way he handles Kogi and Bayelsa governorship polls," he added. 
 
Fayose gave kudos to former President Goodluck Jonathan for the manner he handled the last general elections. 
 
"Former President Goodluck Jonathan played his role and posterity will have a good place for him in history. He anchored free, credible and fair polls that heralded in the current leadership in the country. President Jonathan should be declared the hero of our democracy and a man of honour," he noted.

Fayose to Buhari - 'Stop making selective corruption fight'

Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to probe all the past administrations, to prove "he h...

Breaking News: Finally, Saraki receives ministerial list from Buhari

18:15 Unknown 0

Breaking News: Finally, Saraki receives ministerial list from Buhari

Senate President, Olubukola Saraki has finally received the list of ministers to work in the cabinet of President Muhammadu. The senate...

BREAKING: PDP zones 2019 presidential ticket to North

17:58 Unknown 0

BREAKING: PDP zones 2019 presidential ticket to North

The Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Chief Uche Secondus, on Wednesday in Abuja said the party has zoned its pres...

FG begs ex-militants over 3 months delayed allowance

17:58 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9q4FxZgR4pY/VgwUD_Jzn5I/AAAAAAACFf4/TBKmNTZhPyE/s1600/Ex-Militants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9q4FxZgR4pY/VgwUD_Jzn5I/AAAAAAACFf4/TBKmNTZhPyE/s400/Ex-Militants.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
 
Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Brig.-Gen. Paul Boroh (retd.), has urged ex-militants, enrolled under the scheme, not to be agitated over the delay in the payment of their stipends for three months. 
 
Boroh, the Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta, made the plea in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday in Abuja. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
He attributed the delay in payment of the outstanding allowance to the non-receipt of allocation to the Presidential Amnesty Office for July, August and September, 2015. 
 
He said, “I want to assure the ex-agitators under the programme that arrangements are being made to fast-track the payment of their July and August stipends as soon as the Amnesty office receives its July allocation. 
 
“The office has been conscientious in managing resources and has already cleared the July and August, 2015 in-training and accommodation allowances for international students under the scholarship programme; and will presently conclude the payment of the in- training allowances of scholarship students in Nigerian universities.” 
 
According to him, the Federal Government is aware of the pains the ex-militants are going through and will ensure that they get their stipends soon. 
 
The coordinator recalled that prior to his appointment, the payment of allowances to all beneficiaries had been stalled owing to the change in government. 
 
He added that the delay in the payment of allowances was occasioned by the introduction of the Treasury Single Account System by the new administration to ensure accountability. 
 
Boroh said his office was working assiduously to engage the relevant agencies of government to ensure the release of all accrued allocations to the Presidential Amnesty Office. NAN

FG begs ex-militants over 3 months delayed allowance

Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Brig.-Gen. Paul Boroh (retd.), has urged ex-militants, enrolled under the scheme, not ...

Judge handling Saraki’s case bows out over negative reports

17:58 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mODkdD-dJxw/VgwTKsL2cNI/AAAAAAACFfw/lSHj7rGyKEI/s1600/saraki%2Bas.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mODkdD-dJxw/VgwTKsL2cNI/AAAAAAACFfw/lSHj7rGyKEI/s400/saraki%2Bas.png" width="400" /></a></div>
 
 
Justice Ahmed Mohammed, of the Federal High Court, Abuja, who heard Senate President Bukola Saraki’s ex parte application to stop the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), has withdrawn from the case. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Justice Mohammed who on Wednesday, remitted Saraki’s case to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Mahmud Mohammed, for reassigning to another judge, cited “negative reports” on the case as informing his decision 
 
Recall that Saraki late on September 17 had approached Mohammed to give an order halting his trial by the CCT for alleged corruption and false declaration of assets. 
 
‎The judge ordered the parties to the case – the CCT, and the ministry of justice – to appear before him on September 21. Saraki’s lawyers interpreted the order to mean the suspension of their client’s trial at the CCT. 
‎ 
The trial nevertheless went on September 21. 
 
Mohammed said: “While it is not my intention to join issues with the authors of the said publication, I strongly feel that the records should be set straight. 
 
“In the first instance, I have never made any restraining order against any of the defendants and in particular, the code of conduct tribunal vide a motion ex parte or any motion at all. 
 
“Those who are conversant with the workings of this court know it is not in the habit of granting restraining orders to stop public institutions from carrying out their statutory duties‎.”

Judge handling Saraki’s case bows out over negative reports

Justice Ahmed Mohammed, of the Federal High Court, Abuja, who heard Senate President Bukola Saraki’s ex parte application to stop the Cod...

Ondo Workers begin two days warning strike over outstanding salaries

17:58 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-353QNpRFITM/VgwSHfdpbfI/AAAAAAACFfo/b2bdAqdiYFI/s1600/gov%2Bondo%2BMimiko-2010-360x327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-353QNpRFITM/VgwSHfdpbfI/AAAAAAACFfo/b2bdAqdiYFI/s640/gov%2Bondo%2BMimiko-2010-360x327.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
WORKERS in Ondo State yesterday began a two day warning strike accusing government of insincerity in the payment of their two months salary arrears despite collecting N14b bail out from the federal government. But in a swift reaction, the State government described the strike as an embarrassment and an unpatriotic act on the part of the workers since they have started receiving the July salary on Tuesday. 
 
The August salary is still outstanding despite government assurance on Tuesday that it would be paid together with that of July. However, government source revealed that the August salary will still be paid Wednesday‎. 
 
Government offices were under lock and keys yesterday in compliance with the directive of labour leaders in the state that workers should commence a warning strike Wednesday and Friday because of Thursday’s independence day holiday. 
 
Labour leaders, as early as 7am moved from one government offices to the other to ensure total compliance. 
 
The. State Chairman of the Public Service Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), Mr Sunday Adeleye said the government only tried to divide the workers by paying net salary for the month of July to core civil servants and secondary school teachers. 
Adeleye pointed out that government has not paid anything to workers in the local government and primary school teachers and other categories of workers. 
 
According to him the state government had breached the agreement it reached with labour leaders at the meeting where it was agreed that gross salaries of July and August and deductions for the Month and June would be paid. The JNC chairman said the government, apart from not paying primary school teachers and local government workers, is also withholding deductions for the month of July. 
 
He said the action of the government was contrary to what was been aired on the State Radiovision Corporation that government had commenced payment of salaries of July and August to all workers. Adeleye said workers are aware that the government had placed the bail out fund received from the Federal Government in a fixed deposit account to yield interest. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
The Information Commissioner Kayode Akinmade said the delay in the August salaries was due to bank processes adding that the strike was politically motivated. Akinmade pointed out that the workers would have shown understanding with government which promised to pay their July and August ‎outstanding salaries. 
 
Also, the Head of Service, Mr Toyin Akinkuotu while reacting to the strike action said the “labour leaders were unfair to the government because they had agreed during the meeting that things would be sorted out amicably. Akinkuotu said that the strike” is uncalled for since they all knew that two months salaries cannot be paid at once with the new system of payment. 
 
The Head of Service said with the explanation made by the government on the situation on ground and the fact that the workers have started receiving their July salaries, the labour leaders ought to realize that government was ready to live up to her responsibilities. 
 
The JNC chairman said that they will consider their next line of action if, by Friday, government failed to meet their demands.

Ondo Workers begin two days warning strike over outstanding salaries

WORKERS in Ondo State yesterday began a two day warning strike accusing government of insincerity in the payment of their two months salar...

We are still waiting for Buhari's ministerial list – Senate

17:58 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9j685GdFCEY/VgwRav0t5LI/AAAAAAACFfg/XpQwAYpU3-4/s1600/dino%2Bmeleye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9j685GdFCEY/VgwRav0t5LI/AAAAAAACFfg/XpQwAYpU3-4/s640/dino%2Bmeleye.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
The Senate is yet to receive the list of ministers from the President even as Nigerians were expecting the list to have been read at plenary on Wednesday. Sen. Dino Melaye, Chairman, Senate Ad hoc Committee on Publicity, who briefed senate correspondents at the end of plenary, said the senate was still waiting for the list. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
He promised that the Upper Legislative Chamber would communicate receipt of the list anytime it received it and urged Nigerians to exercise patience. He said: “we are still waiting for the ministerial list from Mr President. I want to advise that there is no need for agitation. 
 
“September expires by 12midnight today. I want to assure Nigerians that as soon as we get hold of this list, we will communicate to Nigerians through the press corps of the National Assembly. “I want to assure Nigerians that we will attend to the ministerial list expeditiously but diligently. 
 
“Due process will be followed but I want to assure that the nominees will be properly screened and only those who meet constitutional and modal requirements will be cleared.’’ Earlier during plenary, the Minority Leader, Sen. Godswill Akpabio demanded to know why the list was not read by the Senate President despite expectation that it should have been received. 
 
However, the Deputy Leader of the Senate, Sen. Bala N’Allah said that Nigerians had until 12 mid night before getting agitated. NAN reports that President Muhammadu Buhari had promised to send the list of his ministers to the Senate for confirmation before the end of September.

We are still waiting for Buhari's ministerial list – Senate

The Senate is yet to receive the list of ministers from the President even as Nigerians were expecting the list to have been read at plena...

We will end Boko Haram by December – Army

17:58 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98JzSkRXqMg/VgwQiGVVL9I/AAAAAAACFfY/428LlCa4d2U/s1600/Major%2BGeneral%2BTY%2BBuratai%2Bnew%2Barmy%2Bchief.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-98JzSkRXqMg/VgwQiGVVL9I/AAAAAAACFfY/428LlCa4d2U/s640/Major%2BGeneral%2BTY%2BBuratai%2Bnew%2Barmy%2Bchief.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, has reiterated the military’s determination to end Boko Haram insurgency in Nigeria in December, a statement said. The statement was issued by the acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, in Abuja on Wednesday. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
It said Buratai restated the commitment during a routine operational visit to frontline troops in parts of the Northeast. 
 
“I want to reassure Nigerians that Nigerian Army is ever determined to succeed in meeting up with the set deadline of defeating Boko Haram terrorists by the end of this year,’’ it said. The statement said the Army chief had defied the public holidays to embark on operational and morale boosting trips to troops under Nigerian 3 Division and 7 Division areas of responsibility. 
 
It said Buratai’s first port of call was Headquarters, 33 Artillery Brigade, Shadawanka Barracks, Bauchi, where he addressed troops on the on-going operations. It said the Army chief also visited the 301 Artillery Regiment, Gombe and Biu where he visited two units; 231 Tank Battalion and 331 Artillery Regiment in Aboge Largema Military Cantonment. 
 
The statement said Buratai admonished troops to treat surrendered terrorists humanely in line with international humanitarian laws and the Nigerian Army Code of Conduct. It said the Army chief also decorated newly promoted officers in the frontline with their new ranks and paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Biu, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Umar Aliyu, at his palace. 
 
It said Buratai was accompanied on the visit by some Principal Staff Officers at the Army Headquarters and the General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Maj.-Gen. HA Umaru and other Commanders. NAN recalls that the Chief of Army Staff has since assumption of office embarked on visits to troops in the frontline to issue operational directives.

We will end Boko Haram by December – Army

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, has reiterated the military’s determination to end Boko Haram insurgency in Nigeria in D...

Breaking News: Sylva wins Bayelsa APC governorship primary

17:38 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WszcoTmPtGU/VgwPHMXzm0I/AAAAAAACFfQ/_uULL2rpJBg/s1600/Timipre-Sylva-620x350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WszcoTmPtGU/VgwPHMXzm0I/AAAAAAACFfQ/_uULL2rpJBg/s640/Timipre-Sylva-620x350.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 Chief Timipre Sylva winner of the All Progressives Congress APC primary yesterday extended a hand of fellowship to Timi Alaibe to work with the party to deliver the governance in Bayelsa State. 
 
Sylva who spoke shortly after he was declared winner of the primary said, “I will like him to come back, let us sit down together as a people, as lovers of the APC, as lovers of Bayelsa state and as lovers of Nigeria join hands and work together and deliver good governance to this state. 
 
According to him, “Its been a long walk and I am very happy today to accept the victory that you have given to me for the second time. This is only the beginning of the journey. today I have seen that we politicians have a lot to learn from the military, what a serving Governor of Edo state of this country was incapable of doing just just a few days ago has been achieved by a retired general and his team. 
 
“This tells you that we have a lot to learn about the military. I want to thank the security agencies that have been present since yesterday night until now and have kept the peace and make sure that this primary are rancour free. 
 
“For us in the APC ,this victory only signals the need for hardwork and unity. There is is a lot to do. We have a job out kicking out n ineptitude government that has done a lot of disservice to our people. 
 
“There has been a preponderance of uncompleted projects, failed promises and lies. A government that lies to its own people, claiming projects that they never had a hand in. 
 
“I give you an example of the Ogbia Nembe road that the government continues to showcase as if it is their project, when they don’t have a hand in that project, that project is a job between the NDDC and Shell. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
“You people have a lot to do when we come in from 14th February 2016. I have gone around this state and I know that the people are yearning for change and I want to assure you that victory will be ours. 
 
“For the delegates, I have a word for you. I have never seen this kind of commitment in politics before. Some people sleet on the roads and in the rain, a lot of you have not had their bathe since morning. I want to assure you that this time, it will no longer be monkey dey work bamboo dey chop, this time I want to tell you that this time it will be monkey go work monkey go chop. 
 
“This time will work together and stay together; we will do everything to keep the unity. I will like to call on all aspirants that have accepted these results to join hands with me to make sure and ensure that we win the election come 5th of December which is actually the main issue at stake.”

Breaking News: Sylva wins Bayelsa APC governorship primary

Chief Timipre Sylva winner of the All Progressives Congress APC primary yesterday extended a hand of fellowship to Timi Alaibe to work with...

APC greets Nigerians as nation turns 55

17:38 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LLFHajFLc94/VgwOcjk9dcI/AAAAAAACFfI/G1PY1HuD6-w/s1600/APC-logo-360x325.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LLFHajFLc94/VgwOcjk9dcI/AAAAAAACFfI/G1PY1HuD6-w/s640/APC-logo-360x325.png" width="640" /></a></div>
 
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has felicitated with all Nigerians on the occasion of the country’s 55th independence anniversary, to be observed on Thursday, 1 October. 
 
In a statement issued in Lagos on Wednesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said the anniversary provides an opportunity to remember all the nation’s past heroes as well as the sacrifices they made to keep the nation united and strong, and for Nigerians to rededicate themselves to the ideals for which the heroes lived. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
It said in order to ensure that the labour of those heroes past are not in vain, it was necessary for all Nigerians, in line with the wordings of the country’s national anthem, to re-commit themselves to serving their fatherland with love, strength and faith. 
 
”We have no doubt that today’s generation of Nigerians have also made, and are indeed still making, great sacrifices for the peace, unity and stability of Nigeria. We appeal to all our compatriots to continue to put the nation first, and to downplay everything that divides us and embrace that which unites us,” APC said. 
 
The party said since democracy is one of the most precious gifts of the nation’s post-independence era, it is imperative for all to continue to embrace this known best form of government and never to do anything that will undermine it. 
 
”We wish all our compatriots a joyous and peaceful celebration,” it said.

APC greets Nigerians as nation turns 55

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has felicitated with all Nigerians on the occasion of the country’s 55th independence anniversary, to ...

Court orders Zamfara to pay Ecobank N3.1b debt

17:38 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HsVo5jBlWPA/VgwOK58k87I/AAAAAAACFfA/W800uyZMG10/s1600/gov%2Bzamfara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HsVo5jBlWPA/VgwOK58k87I/AAAAAAACFfA/W800uyZMG10/s400/gov%2Bzamfara.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
 
The Federal High Court in Lagos on Wednesday ordered the Zamfara State government to pay Ecobank Nigeria Limited N3.1billion. 
 
Justice Okon Abang directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Ministry of Finance and Accountant-General of the Federation to deduct the sum from money accruable to the state from the Federation Account and remit to the bank. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
The state is also to pay interest on the sum at 30 per cent per annum from March 1, 2013 when the suit was filed, until Wednesday (when judgment was delivered). 
 
In addition, the state must pay 10 per cent interest on the judgment sum until it is finally liquidated. 
 
The judge awarded N50,000 to the bank as cost of prosecuting the suit. 
 
He directed the Attorney-General of Zamfara, it’s finance ministry, Ministry of Finance, Accountant-General, Attorney-General of the Federation and CBN “to ensure the full and effectual compliance with the judgment.” 
 
Justice Abang held that the sum of N3, 159,017,740.71 was the outstanding indebtedness on a facility of N1.5billion extended to Zamfara State by Oceanic Bank Plc, which was consolidated with Ecobank. 
 
Ecobank, in its claims, said the state’s Executive Council passed a resolution authorising its finance ministry to accept the loan on Zamfara’s behalf. 
 
It said the major security for the disbursement of the loan facility was a conditional Irrevocable Standing Payment Order (ISPO) from the state’s Value Added Tax (VAT) account domiciled with First Bank, Gusau Branch. 
 
Ecobank said the facility suffered a setback when First Bank “stopped the warehousing of state Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) and consequently declined further remittance for the payment of the indebtedness that arose from the subject facility.” 
 
An agreement was subsequently reached to restructure the debt in November 2010, after which the state “honoured rentals for few months.” 
 
“However, the rentals till date have not been paid by Zamfara State

Court orders Zamfara to pay Ecobank N3.1b debt

The Federal High Court in Lagos on Wednesday ordered the Zamfara State government to pay Ecobank Nigeria Limited N3.1billion. Justice O...

Buhari to address Nigeria at 7am on Thursday

17:38 Unknown 0

Buhari to address Nigeria at 7am on Thursday

President Muhammadu Buhari will on Thursday make a nationwide broadcast as part of activities to mark Nigeria’s 55th Independence Annivers...

IN PICTURES: Buhari returns to Abuja from UN General Assembly

17:19 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QzUSY6ltcc8/VgwG8Z45AWI/AAAAAAACFeY/eiXMmcY1xuQ/s1600/az1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QzUSY6ltcc8/VgwG8Z45AWI/AAAAAAACFeY/eiXMmcY1xuQ/s640/az1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
 
President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday afternoon returned to Abuja from New York, US, where he had gone to attend the 70th UN General Assembly. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Buhari, who addressed the Assembly on Monday, equally met notable work leaders, attended sessions on anti-terror initiatives and pleaded with world leaders for support on his anti-graft war. 
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1D2rVXLSmes/VgwJpA4z14I/AAAAAAACFek/uFOyq7eS4nI/s1600/az2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1D2rVXLSmes/VgwJpA4z14I/AAAAAAACFek/uFOyq7eS4nI/s640/az2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6Yc_poUDeE/VgwJq8t5FvI/AAAAAAACFes/DOCPlF3JqvA/s1600/az3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6Yc_poUDeE/VgwJq8t5FvI/AAAAAAACFes/DOCPlF3JqvA/s640/az3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>

IN PICTURES: Buhari returns to Abuja from UN General Assembly

President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday afternoon returned to Abuja from New York, US, where he had gone to attend the 70th UN General As...

Never abuse or insult President Buhari - PDP warns Nigerians

16:52 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qqd-5P2FEGw/VgwDQRyhKuI/AAAAAAACFeM/1dRKZXB__zc/s1600/buhari%2Bpdp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qqd-5P2FEGw/VgwDQRyhKuI/AAAAAAACFeM/1dRKZXB__zc/s640/buhari%2Bpdp.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 The Peoples Democratic Party has said it is wrong for anyone to abuse or insult President Muhammadu Buhari. 
 
The PDP, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh in Abuja on Wednesday, congratulated the citizens for keeping faith in the Nigerian project and working together in building a strong nation and one of the fastest growing economies in the world. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
It said this while charging Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 55th Independence Anniversary to rekindle the spirit of patriotism, asking the citizens to exhibit actions that promote democratic ideals and peaceful co-existence at all levels in the country. 
 
The party said the occasion reminded Nigerians of their common root and destiny as well as the country’s resilience and determination to succeed in all spheres of life as a strong, united and prosperous nation, irrespective of her challenges. 
 
It urged Nigerians to use the anniversary to recommit to respecting their leaders at the local government, state and national levels, while paying adequate reverence to national symbols and institutions. 
 
The party added, “In this regard, the PDP urges all citizens to have full respect for the office and person of the symbol of the leadership of our great country, the President. 
 
“The President can be constructively criticised, but under no circumstance should he be abused or insulted in any way and under any guise whatsoever. 
 
“On this note therefore, we expect those around our dear President to be cautious and desist from actions and utterances that tend to set him up for public ridicule.” 
 
The PDP congratulated the nation on its giants strides since independence, especially within the 16 years under the PDP led-administration, during which he said enviable milestones were recorded in critical sectors of the polity. 
 
It commended the military for the success recorded in the fight against insurgency in the country, while commiserating with all those affected by the senseless acts of terrorism and violence.

Never abuse or insult President Buhari - PDP warns Nigerians

The Peoples Democratic Party has said it is wrong for anyone to abuse or insult President Muhammadu Buhari. The PDP, in a statement by it...

Buhari’s ministerial nominees list fails to reach National Assembly

15:53 Unknown 0

Buhari’s ministerial nominees list fails to reach National Assembly

The list of President Muhammadu Buhari’s ministerial nominees failed to reach the National Assembly on Wednesday as widely expected. Th...

Nigeria’s foreign reserves crash by $1billion

14:27 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L_niwviPt1M/VgvUbD6DKcI/AAAAAAACFdo/DY4oqSosoFY/s1600/BUhari-600x336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L_niwviPt1M/VgvUbD6DKcI/AAAAAAACFdo/DY4oqSosoFY/s640/BUhari-600x336.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
The Central Bank of Nigeria has revealed in its data for the month of September that there has been a fall in Nigeria’s foreign reserves. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Foreign exchange reserves fell by 3.14 per cent to $30.48 billion by September 23 from $31.47 billion a month ago, central bank data showed on Wednesday. 
 
The reserves of Africa’s top oil producer is now down 23.03 per cent from a year ago. 
 
In August, the CBN indicated that foreign exchange reserves rose by $350 million to 31.43 billion. The reserves increase crossed $30 billion in July, rising by 5.6 per cent from 29.03 billion in June to N30.69 billion.

Nigeria’s foreign reserves crash by $1billion

The Central Bank of Nigeria has revealed in its data for the month of September that there has been a fall in Nigeria’s foreign reserves. ...

Adeyeye emerges Senate chief whip of the Nigerian senate

14:27 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AsSphqL_YOs/VgvTNuSISLI/AAAAAAACFdc/LuHQedWnrCk/s1600/APC-logo-360x325.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AsSphqL_YOs/VgvTNuSISLI/AAAAAAACFdc/LuHQedWnrCk/s640/APC-logo-360x325.png" width="640" /></a></div>
 
Senator Olusola Adeyeye (APC-Osun Central) has been made the new chief whip of the Nigerian senate. 
 
Adeyeye was nominated for the position by the Senate South West Caucus and was made whip after Senate President, Bukola Saraki read a letter by APC South West Caucus nominating Prof Sola Adeyeye as Chief Whip of the Senate. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Saraki’s move looks like a u-turn from his previous action when he refused to honour a similar letter sent by the leadership of the All Progressives Congress urging him to appoint select individuals as principal officers of the senate. 
 
The new chief whip, Adeyeye, attended the University of Ibadan, where he was the editor of a students’ newspaper. When the military government of Olusegun Obasanjo lifted the ban on politics in 1978, he worked for the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), the party of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. 
 
After Awolowo failed to be elected President in 1979, Adeyeye went abroad where he earned his graduate degree. He earned a PhD from the University of Georgia. Adeyeye later became a Professor of Biology at Duquesne University.

Adeyeye emerges Senate chief whip of the Nigerian senate

Senator Olusola Adeyeye (APC-Osun Central) has been made the new chief whip of the Nigerian senate. Adeyeye was nominated for the positi...

Timi Alaibe withdraws from APC Bayelsa guber primary

14:27 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-baBUa9Q7X_4/VgvR35E77BI/AAAAAAACFdQ/mspY-Ig-8vQ/s1600/timi%2Balaibe.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-baBUa9Q7X_4/VgvR35E77BI/AAAAAAACFdQ/mspY-Ig-8vQ/s400/timi%2Balaibe.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
 
Former Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission NDCC, Timi Alaibe has withdrawn from the primary of the All Progressives Congress in Bayelsa State. 
 
Alaibe in a statement issued in the early hours of Wednesday said the decision to withdraw from the contest was in the interest of the party especially as it face the task of the common challenge of unseating the PDP in the state come December 5 
 
He said, “It is with all nostalgia that I recall the zeal, enthusiasm and hope with which thousands of Bayelsans made a statement in the direction of change in August, 2015. I can also vividly recall a mental replay of the occasion wherein a qualitative representation of the leadership of our great party, the All Progressives Congress ( APC) ushered in respected leaders and members from their then party, Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) . 
 
“That singular event has been phenomenal just as its true meaning and direction have all exuded confidence, unity of purpose, cohesion, collectivism and courage. That day undoubtedly marked the beginning of a people’s journey from hopelessness and squandry as enunciated by the accidental PDP-led ‎government in Bayelsa state to that of quality leadership that an APC government will represent. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
“As one of such leaders who took that historic decision, I thought of giving a further bite to my burning desire to extricate the state from‎ abysmal leadership failure. Therefore, my aspiration to be governor after series of consultations was to rekindle our collective hope and lift the state beyond its current state of decay under the PDP. 
 
“Regardless, I am not oblivious of the fundamental fact that we all need a virile, united, cohesive and collaborative APC to bring about our desires to fruition. Not only do we need this, APC deserves every sacrifice, including personal interests, to arrive at the envisaged destination come February, 2016. 
 
“This is more so that both as individual leaders and as a party, the need to avoid the a situation of crisis that the PDP might inadvertently reap from cannot be over emphasised. 
 
“As a result, having carefully examined the circumstances that have trailed the Governorship primaries of our great party in Bayelsa state, I have come to the conclusion that pushing my governorship ambition beyond this point carries alongside it some collateral consequences. 
 
“Succinctly, two options are available to me. Whereas I am confident that I have the required support of my admirers and supporters‎ as well as the needed backing of Bayelsans to govern them, the hurdles set on the way of this noble project are seemingly temptous and capable of overheating the APC in Bayelsa. 
 
“In another vein, the virtuous path to take is that virtuous one in which personal interest are sacrificed for the common good,whether for the APC or the state in general. This is the path I chose in the light of the prevailing circumstances. I therefore withdraw from the governorship primary contest. 
 
“This decision is taken in the interest of our party especially as we face the task of the common challenge‎ of unseating the PDP in the state come December 5.”

Timi Alaibe withdraws from APC Bayelsa guber primary

Former Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission NDCC, Timi Alaibe has withdrawn from the primary of the All Progressives C...

Hajj tragedy: 64 Nigerians dead, 240 still missing —NAHCON

10:04 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ymE8RWU9Bpw/VguhaFUIHhI/AAAAAAACFcw/Pry1jKRinTU/s1600/hajj%2Bstampede%2Bmecca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ymE8RWU9Bpw/VguhaFUIHhI/AAAAAAACFcw/Pry1jKRinTU/s1600/hajj%2Bstampede%2Bmecca.jpg" /></a></div>
 
 
The National Hajj Commission, has confirmed that Nigerian casualties at the September 24 Muna stampede has risen to 64. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Similarly, as many as 240 Nigerian pilgrims are still missing at the time of filing this story. 
 
In a telephone interview, Mr Uba Mana, the Public Relations Officer of the Commission, said the injured were receiving prompt medical attention. 
 
According to him, a report containing the identities of the victims is on its way to Abuja, in line with the directive from the Presidency to the National Hajj Commission. 
 
He said: “As soon as our medical team finishes treating the injured, we will start airlifting them back to Nigeria.”

Hajj tragedy: 64 Nigerians dead, 240 still missing —NAHCON

The National Hajj Commission, has confirmed that Nigerian casualties at the September 24 Muna stampede has risen to 64. Similarly, as ...

Nigerians put out hillarious reactions to Buhari's proposed ministerial list

09:01 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NOLuJLPK3Ck/VguVv9U0rjI/AAAAAAACFcU/EUFOhh1wuIY/s1600/buhari%2Blaugh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NOLuJLPK3Ck/VguVv9U0rjI/AAAAAAACFcU/EUFOhh1wuIY/s640/buhari%2Blaugh.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
Nigerians put out hillarious reactions to Buhari's proposed ministerial list 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
<div class="storify"><iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="no" height="750" src="//storify.com/olufemiajasa/see-funny-nigerians-posts-on/embed" width="100%"></iframe><script src="//storify.com/olufemiajasa/see-funny-nigerians-posts-on.js" type="text/javascript">
</script><noscript>[<a href="//storify.com/olufemiajasa/see-funny-nigerians-posts-on" target="_blank">View the story "See funny posts by Nigerians on ministerial list" on Storify</a>]</noscript></div>

Nigerians put out hillarious reactions to Buhari's proposed ministerial list

Nigerians put out hillarious reactions to Buhari's proposed ministerial list [ View the story "See funny posts by Nigerians o...

Ministerial List: I will appoint myself as petroleum minister - Buhari

02:56 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-34cSzdiIAqE/Vgs1AKCVViI/AAAAAAACFbI/SjDpf5sMrRM/s1600/buhari%2Bfresh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-34cSzdiIAqE/Vgs1AKCVViI/AAAAAAACFbI/SjDpf5sMrRM/s640/buhari%2Bfresh.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
 
A glimpse into the cabinet list of President Muhammadu Buhari has been revealed by the President himself. 
 
He will head the Ministry of Petroleum Resources in the new cabinet. 
 
Buhari dropped the hint in one of the interviews he granted one of the foreign media in his hotel shortly before departing New York. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
The President was in New York to participate in the 70th United Nations General Assembly. 
 
“I will serve as the Minister of Petroleum Resources myself,” Buhari told his interviewer. 
 
The nation’s petroleum sector has been said to be enmeshed in corruption with millions of dollars said to be missing in the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation. 
 
Shortly after assuming office, Buhari sacked and replaced the management of the company. 
 
The new management had started a general reorganisation of the firm. 
 
Buhari had on Monday said the trial of those who looted the NNPC would commence soon. 
 
Meanwhile, ministerial list that President Muhammadu Buhari will submit to the Senate on Wednesday (today)will not contain all the members of his proposed cabinet. 
 
Buhari was inaugurated on May 29, having defeated former President Goodluck Jonathan in the presidential election held in March. 
 
Investigation by one of our correspondents on Tuesday revealed that what would be transmitted to the Senate this week would not be a complete list of nominees. 
 
A top government official familiar with the arrangement confided in one of our correspondents that Buhari would send the names of the nominees to the Senate in batches. 
 
“What the Senate will be getting on Tuesday or Wednesday will not be a complete list. The names will be sent in batches but quite a number will be on this first list while others will be compiled and sent later,” the source said. 
 
The President may have decided to send the names in batches in order to meet the September deadline he set for himself rather than waiting to compile the full list and fail to beat the deadline. 
 
Efforts made by one of our correspondents to get an insight into the list of the first batch of would-be ministers did not however yield any positive result on Tuesday. 
 
The issue of the list has however been generating concerns among members of Buhari’s delegation to the 70th United Nations General Assembly holding in New York. 
 
Many of the politicians on the President’s delegation who felt they might be considered for ministerial positions were getting in touch with Nigeria intermittently on the telephone for latest information on the list while they also kept making themselves visible for Buhari. 
 
Some of them who could not hide their anxiety were heard asking Nigerian journalists if they had latest information on the list. 
 
Prominent chiefs of the All Progressives Congress on the President’s delegation include a former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi; a former Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi; and a former member of the House of Representatives, Abike Dabiri-Erewa among others. 
 
Meanwhile, the Senate President, Bukola Saraki, said on Tuesday that his leadership would not employ vendetta in the screening of the President Muhammadu Buhari’s wise men. 
 
Saraki, who stated this in his welcome address to his colleagues at a plenary after their six-week recess, expressed confidence that Nigeria’s economy would experience a turn-around with the appointment of ministers. 
 
He said, “As we await the list of ministerial nominees this week, I believe the presence of ministers will create the space for greater policy engagement with the executive arm of government. 
 
“It will also enable us to begin to respond in a more systematic manner to the various economic and social challenges before us, especially through our various committees that will also be constituted soon. 
 
“On this note, I want to urge you all my colleagues to ensure that what is uppermost in our minds as we begin the constitutional task of screening of ministerial nominees is the overall interest of our country, informed by the enormity and the urgency of the challenges before us. 
 
“Once the list is submitted, let us ensure that we treat it with dispatch and thoroughness. We must not be held down by unnecessary politicking.”

Ministerial List: I will appoint myself as petroleum minister - Buhari

A glimpse into the cabinet list of President Muhammadu Buhari has been revealed by the President himself. He will head the Ministry of ...

Buhari is a Fulani man, he is sympathetic towards Fulani herdsmen - Femi Fani-Kayode

02:56 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ddQQMlvVGHk/Vgs1jx62W7I/AAAAAAACFbQ/Jvv4C23Ar6Y/s1600/Buhari-Fani%2Bkayode.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ddQQMlvVGHk/Vgs1jx62W7I/AAAAAAACFbQ/Jvv4C23Ar6Y/s640/Buhari-Fani%2Bkayode.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
 
A former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, says President Muhammadu Buhari, who is a Fulani man, is sympathetic towards Fulani herdsmen. 
 
The former minister said this in a Facebook post titled, ‘Herdsmen from hell’ while reacting to the abduction of a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Olu Falae, by suspected Fulani herdsmen. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Fani-Kayode said Buhari had in the past referred to Fulani herdsmen as ‘my people’. He, therefore, argued that he was not surprised that Fulani herdsmen were hardly arrested despite their many acts of violence. 
 
He said, “In the last few years the Fulani herdsmen have attacked, ravaged and pillaged many rural communities south of the River Niger and they have slaughtered and raped thousands of innocent people in the South-South, the South-East and the South-West. 
 
“We recall how, after a violent clash between them and some Yoruba farmers in Oyo State in 2000, General Buhari (as he then was) led a strong delegation of northern leaders to see the late Governor of Oyo State, Lam Adeshina. On arrival, Buhari put the question to him: ‘Why are your people killing my people?’ This was a classic case of a Freudian slip. 
 
“The Bible says out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. The general had spoken his mind. Governor Adeshina was shocked with disbelief and he responded by telling Buhari that he was rather surprised that a former Head of State would refer to one ethnic group as his people while referring to another as someone else’s.” 
 
Fani-Kayode, who was the spokesperson for former President Goodluck Jonathan’s campaign organisation, said Buhari had never shown concern for the plight of the people of the South. 
 
He said this was why it took Buhari 48 hours to react to Falae’s kidnap. 
 
Fani-Kayode said it was possible that Buhari knew those behind the abduction Falae because the herdsmen released Falae 24 hours after the presidency condemned the abduction. He noted that no one had since been arrested for Falae’s kidnap. 
 
He added, “Another curious twist to the tale is the fact that it took the Buhari administration two days to make any formal announcement on Falae’s abduction and just the day after they (Presidency) finally did so, the elder statesman was suddenly released. 
 
“The question is this: who is pulling the strings from behind the scenes and who is attempting to test our resolve and test the waters?” 
 
The Peoples Democratic Party chieftain said Falae’s claim that the Fulani herdsmen had links with Boko Haram should not be ignored. 
 
He said the Fulani herdsmen were a security threat and could easily cause crisis in the South-West having populated the entire region under the guise of selling cattle.

Buhari is a Fulani man, he is sympathetic towards Fulani herdsmen - Femi Fani-Kayode

A former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, says President Muhammadu Buhari, who is a Fulani man, is sympathetic towards Fulani herd...

REVEALED: See full list of 83 senators who passed vote of confidence on Saraki

02:56 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4T27lHo-J_o/Vgs4SZiBZqI/AAAAAAACFbs/CFO7a1To_M8/s1600/Bukola-Saraki1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="339" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4T27lHo-J_o/Vgs4SZiBZqI/AAAAAAACFbs/CFO7a1To_M8/s640/Bukola-Saraki1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
 
As the 8th Senate, on Tuesday, resumed from its 4th recess in 110 days, no fewer than 83 Senators passed a vote of confidence on the leadership of the embattled Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, amidst rowdy session. 
 
Despite Saraki’s trial at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) over alleged corrupt practices and false declaration of assets, he initially got the backing of 84 of his colleagues. But as the Chairman, Senate Committee on Business and Rules, Babajide Omowarare (APC-Osun East), backed out, 83 Senators threw their weight behind Saraki. 
 
The proposal titled: “Vote of Confidence on Principal Officers of the Senate,” in pursuant to Orders 42 and 52 of the Senate Standing Order 2015, had the names of 48 Senators from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and 35 from the majority All Progressives Congress (APC). 
 
Senator David Umaru (APC-Niger East), was the one who read the Vote Of Confidence motion on the floor of the Red Chamber. 
 
See the full list: 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 1. Sen. David Umaru 
 2. Sen. Mohammed A. Ndume 
 3. Sen. Godswill Akpabio 
 4. Sen. Biodun Olujimi 
 5. Sen. Malam A. Wakil 
 6. Sen. Isah Hamma Misau 
 7. Sen. Emmanuel I. Paulker 
 8. Sen. Ogola Foster 
 9. Sen. Gershom H. Bassey 
 10. Sen. James Manager 
 11. Sen. Babajide Omowarare (Backed out) 
 12. Sen. Ahmadu Abubakar M. 
 13. Sen. Joshua M. Lidani 
 14. Sen. Achonu A. Nneji 
 15. Sen. Shehu Sanni 
 16. Sen. Salihu H. Egye 
 17. Sen. Mao Ohuabunwa 
 18. Sen. Mohammed S. Ohiare 
 19. Sen. Philip Aruwa Gyunka 
 20. Sen. Abdullahi Adamu 
 21. Sen. Samuel N. Anyanwu 
 22. Sen. George T. Sekibo 
 23. Sen. Monsurat J.A. Sunmonu 
 24. Sen. Jeremiah T. Useni 
 25. Sen. Ogba Joseph Obinna 
 26. Sen. Aliyu S. Abdullahi 
 27. Sen. Sunny Ogbuoji 
 28. Sen. Gilbert Nnaji 
 29. Sen. Bala IBN Na’allah 
 30. Sen. Philip Tanimu Aduda 
 31. Sen. Duro Samuel Faseyi 
 32. Sen. Kabiru Gaya 
 33. Sen. Muhammad Aliero 
 34. Sen. Bukar A. Ibrahim, CON 
 35. Sen. Abubakar Kyari 
 36. Sen. Rose Okoji Oko 
 37. Sen. Osinachukwu I. Ideozu 
 38. Sen. Matthew A. Urhoghide 
 39. Sen. Fatimat O Raji-Rasaki 
 40. Sen. Tijani Yahaya Kaura 
 41. Sen. Sabo Mohammed 
 42. Sen. Danjuma Laáh 
 43. Sen. Mohammed S. Lafiagi 
 44. Sen. Dino Melaye 
 45. Sen. Abdulrahman Abubakar 
 46. Sen. Bassey A. Akpan 
 47. Sen. Olanrewaju A. Tejuoso 
 48. Sen. Buruji Kashamu 
 49. Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe 
 50. Sen. Samuel O. Egwu 
 51. Sen. David A.B. Mark\ 
 52. Sen. Aliyu M. Wamakko. 
 53. Sen. Marafa Bachir Abba 
 54. Sen. Mohammed Hassan 
 55. Sen. Utazi G. Chukwuka 
 56. Sen. Francis Alimikhena 
 57. Sen. Emmanuel Bwacha 
 58. Sen. Joshua Chibi Dariye 
 59. Sen. Uche L. Ekwunife 
 60. Sen. Murray-Bruce Ben 
 61. Sen. Binta Masi Garba 
 62. Sen. Jang Jonah David 
 63. Sen. Ighoyota Amori 
 64. Sen. Ibrahim A. Gobir 
 65. Sen. Mohammed Goje, CON 
 66. Sen. Ahmed Rufa’i Sani 
 67. Sen. Ibrahim Abdullahi 
 68. Sen. Muhammad U. Shitu 
 69. Sen. Andy E. Ubah 
 70. Sen. Nelson A. Effiong 
 71. Sen. Rafiu Adedayo Ibrahim 
 72. Sen. Abdul A.M. Nyako 
 73. Sen. Theodore A. Orji 
 74. Sen. Olaka Johnson Nwogu 
 75. Sen. Abubakar S. Danladi 
 76. Sen. Yele Omogunwa 
 77. Sen. Stella Adaeze Oduah 
 78. Sen. Hope O. Uzodinma 
 79. Sen. John Owah Enoh 
 80. Sen. Peter Nwaboshi 
 81. Sen. Clifford A. Ordia 
 82. Sen. Donald Alasoadura 
 83. Sen. Mustapha Sani 
 84. Sen. Gbolahan Dada

REVEALED: See full list of 83 senators who passed vote of confidence on Saraki

As the 8th Senate, on Tuesday, resumed from its 4th recess in 110 days, no fewer than 83 Senators passed a vote of confidence on the lead...

Afenifere group demands end to cattle rearing in Yorubaland

02:56 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QUfjmCmkoyU/Vgs3XQrsXVI/AAAAAAACFbk/w8oLyFgXXEU/s1600/cows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QUfjmCmkoyU/Vgs3XQrsXVI/AAAAAAACFbk/w8oLyFgXXEU/s400/cows.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
The Pan socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has called on the Federal Government to abolish nomadic system of cattle rearing in order to stop the criminality allegedly being perpetrated by Fulani herdsmen in the rural communities of Yorubaland. 
 
This was contained in a communique on Tuesday at the end of the monthly meeting of the organisation held at the residence of its leader, Pa Rueben Fasonranti, in Akure, the Ondo State capital. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
In the communique read by the Publicity Secretary of the group, Mr Yinka Odumakin, Afenifere decried the state of insecurity in the country, particularly, the recent kidnapping of a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation. Chief Olu Falae, last week. 
 
Describing the kidnap of Falae as shameful, insensitive and disrespect to the Yoruba race, the group warned that if the Federal Government failed to stop the herdsmen from attacking the Yoruba people, the people of the South-West might have to defend themselves. 
 
It added, “Our people are everywhere in the country and they don’t destroy the business of their hosts. Why should the Fulani people be destroying our own business?. Our demand is that the Federal Government should arrest the perpetrators and prosecute them. Youruba people will not tolerate this any longer. 
 
“So, while we await the arrest of the criminals, cattle rearing should be stopped in Yorubaland. I read Chief Olu Falae told the Commissioner of Police that government should do something urgently to stop this thing because if such a thing is not done, it will be encouraging self-help; people will defend themselves. And we agree totally with him.” 
 
While reminding the President to implement the recommendations of the report of the 2014 National Conference, Afenifere said the report contained the abolition of nomadic system of cattle rearing, which it described as primitive, and asked the government should rather adopt ranching cattle rearing system. 
 
“The meeting noted that in 2014 National Conference, to which Chief Olu Falae led the Yoruba delegation, extensively discussed this matter of nomadic cattle rearing and the Conference resolved that it should be stopped and instead have ranches for cattle business.”

Afenifere group demands end to cattle rearing in Yorubaland

The Pan socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has called on the Federal Government to abolish nomadic system of cattle rearing in order...

Finally, Sylva accepts cancellation of APC primary

02:56 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ct-Yxp-5yns/Vgs2GGL7LEI/AAAAAAACFbc/UO-BAvtldq8/s1600/Timipre-Sylva-620x350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ct-Yxp-5yns/Vgs2GGL7LEI/AAAAAAACFbc/UO-BAvtldq8/s640/Timipre-Sylva-620x350.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
Former Governor Timipre Sylva of Bayelsa State who was declared the winner of the disputed All Progressives Congress governorship primary last week has accepted the cancellation of the exercise by the leadership of the party. 
 
His campaign team, however, boasted that he would win the next primary. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
The Timipre Sylva Campaign Organisation described the invalidation of the primary as unfortunate. 
 
A statement signed on behalf of the campaign team by Mr. Doifie Buokoribo, on Tuesday, however, said Sylva would abide by the party’s decision because as a loyal party member, he believes in the supremacy of the party. 
 
The campaign organisation, in the statement titled, “We will win again,” told supporters to remain calm and steadfast, saying, “Ultimately, our victory is sure.” 
 
The statement by the campaign team read in part, “The cancellation of the September 22 primary, where Chief Timipre Sylva was overwhelmingly voted by the APC family in our state to be the governorship candidate at the December 5 governorship election, is unfortunate. 
 
“But as loyal and faithful party folks, we have the serenity to accept the decision in the larger interest of our great party. We urge our teeming supporters to remain peaceful and unruffled, rest assured that all is well. 
 
“Ultimately, our victory is sure. Our hope cannot be annulled. Our mission to rescue Bayelsa State from the grip of maladministration and underdevelopment is a task that must be accomplished.” 
 
It urged delegates to turn out more than ever on Wednesday to repeat the “overwhelming endorsement you gave Sylva on September 22.” 
 
Though there had been fears that Sylva might head for the courts to stop the new primary, sources said influential members of the party prevailed on him not to take any action that would be inimical to the interest of the party. 
 
Sylva was said to have dropped the idea of going to court and decided to participate in the fresh primary to safeguard the interest of the party ahead of the December 5 governorship election.

Finally, Sylva accepts cancellation of APC primary

Former Governor Timipre Sylva of Bayelsa State who was declared the winner of the disputed All Progressives Congress governorship primary ...

Arsenal 2-3 Olympiacos: Ospina blunder helps visitors to surprise win

02:56 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uS5hXUZFvZw/VgszQFx34rI/AAAAAAACFaw/cD5VOdQaR9U/s1600/wengerrrrr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uS5hXUZFvZw/VgszQFx34rI/AAAAAAACFaw/cD5VOdQaR9U/s640/wengerrrrr.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
Substitute Alfred Finnbogason was the match-winner for Olympiacos as his strike condemned Arsenal to a 3-2 defeat at the Emirates Stadium in the Champions League on Tuesday. 
 
Arsene Wenger's side remain pointless in Group F as they had nothing to show for their efforts despite twice equalising as suspect defending and a calamitous David Ospina error helped ensure Olympiacos their first win on English soil. 
 
Theo Walcott was picked to replace the suspended Olivier Giroud and the England international looked to have ensured Arsenal parity at the break, having cancelled out Felipe Pardo's 33rd-minute opener. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
However, Ospina inexplicably dropped Kostas Fortounis' corner behind the line five minutes before half-time - the goalkeeper having been selected ahead of regular number one Petr Cech. 
 
Walcott turned provider for Alexis Sanchez to equalise for a second time shortly after the hour but Arsenal were again caught flat-footed as the visitors broke from kick-off, with Finnbogason making his impact off the bench with a well-taken finish from close range. 
 
It leaves Arsenal with an uphill battle already, while the severity of the injury that forced Laurent Koscielny off could add further frustration for Wenger - who will face difficult questions on his goalkeeping selection. 
 
Arsenal began the brighter and showed pace on the counter when Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain found the side-netting inside the penalty area after nine minutes. 
 
The forward was one of five to come in for the hosts alongside Ospina and the Arsenal goalkeeper was called on soon after to collect a dangerous delivery from Fortounis that almost looped in. 
 
Fortounis dragged a shot wide after 21 minutes as Olympiacos grew into the game before taking the lead. 
 
The unmarked Pardo collected a corner and guided his shot on target, with a deflection off Oxlade-Chamberlain deceiving a helpless Ospina en route to the far corner. 
 
Walcott levelled within three minutes, latching onto Sanchez's pass and finishing past Roberto Jimenez, who made contact with the effort but failed to keep it out. The Olympiacos goalkeeper should perhaps have done better but Ospina's howler proved the final talking point of an entertaining half. 
 
The Colombian was caught out by an inswinging Fortounis delivery and, having recovered to collect the ball, spilled it behind the line as the goal-line official eventually gave the goal amid protests from the home side. 
 
The hosts' difficulties continued after the break when Koscielny limped off with an apparent hamstring problem following a slide tackle on Pardo before the hour mark. 
 
Following Aaron Ramsey's introduction, Arsenal came close to levelling again, as Mertesacker's effort was saved by Jimenez before Santi Cazorla's follow-up was blocked on the line as the hosts eventually gained reward for their pressure. 
 
Sanchez appeared to have lifted the sullen atmosphere at the Emirates when he glanced home Walcott's cross but slack play once again saw Arsenal slip behind, as Esteban Cambiasso found Pardo, who crossed for Finnbogason to finish. 
 
Despite late pressure from their side, home fans saw Arsenal slip bottom of the group ahead of a clash with Bayern Munich while Marco Silva's men claimed an away win in the Champions League for the first time in two years. 
 
(Goal.com)

Arsenal 2-3 Olympiacos: Ospina blunder helps visitors to surprise win

Substitute Alfred Finnbogason was the match-winner for Olympiacos as his strike condemned Arsenal to a 3-2 defeat at the Emirates Stadium...

Porto 2-1 Chelsea: Mourinho's woes continue as he sufffers yet another defeat

01:54 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZxJS3iHbQVM/VgsyRhhRUdI/AAAAAAACFao/wsDcwfOyXeo/s1600/mourinho%2Bsad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZxJS3iHbQVM/VgsyRhhRUdI/AAAAAAACFao/wsDcwfOyXeo/s400/mourinho%2Bsad.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
 
Porto captain Maicon headed a decisive second-half goal to give Porto a 2-1 Champions League win and extend Chelsea's laboured start to the season. 
 
Julen Lopetegui's side were offered encouragement throughout the Group G clash by the defensive frailties that have undermined Chelsea over the past two months and opened the scoring at the Estadio do Dragao through Andre Andre. 
 
Willian – recalled to the starting line-up following his weekend equaliser against Newcastle United, as Jose Mourinho benched Eden Hazard and Nemanja Matic – levelled matters with a brilliant free-kick on the stroke of half-time. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
But, as they did at St James' Park on Saturday, Chelsea switched off and Maicon capitalised in the 52nd minute to ensure a miserable return to his old stomping ground for Mourinho. 
 
The margin of victory could have been greater as Danilo headed against the post inside the final 10 minute, while the result moves Porto onto four points alongside Dynamo Kiev – one ahead of Chelsea. 
 
Iker Casillas set a Champions League record by making his 152nd appearance in the competition and the Porto goalkeeper was called into action early on. 
 
Diego Costa, performing at his menacing best in the midst of a domestic suspension, left defenders in his wake down the left and found Cesc Fabregas, only for Casillas to save plunging to his right. 
 
The ex-Real Madrid captain came out on top in another all-Spanish duel in the 14th minute – saving with his feet from Pedro, who charged onto Willian's crisp pass. 
 
Some uncertain Chelsea defending ended with Vincent Aboubakar, who scored both Porto's goals in their opening 2-2 draw at Dynamo Kiev, lashing wildly over. 
 
Full-back Maxi Pereira produced some more wayward shooting for Porto, but the sense of defensive vulnerability surrounding Chelsea was confirmed when they fell behind six minutes before the break. 
 
Yacine Brahimi cut inside from the left past Branislav Ivanovic to draw a brilliant save from Asmir Begovic, who could not keep out Andre's volleyed follow-up. 
 
It was all square from the final, stunning kick of the first-half – Willian fizzing a wonderful free kick over the defensive wall and across a statuesque Casillas. 
 
 
 
 
 
Costa won the foul for the equaliser and combined with Willian to have a 48th-minute attempt deflected wide before Chelsea fell behind again. 
 
Brahimi skipped around Ivanovic again to win a corner and Maicon peeled off the Chelsea goalline to send a clever back header beyond Begovic at the near post from Ruben Neves' delivery. 
 
There was more rough treatment for Ivanovic at the hands of Brahimi, although the Serbian recovered to make a vital block on his tormentor, before Chelsea failed to fully clear and Neves had a deflected attempt headed away from the goalmouth by Kurt Zouma. 
 
Mourinho sent on Hazard in place of John Obi Mikel in the 62nd minute and he was quickly into the action – collecting Pedro's pass and hurdling Maicon's lunging challenge to shoot in to the side netting. 
 
But Chelsea's problems at the other end showed no sign of abating. 
 
Begovic kept out a stinging drive by Giannelli Imbula in the 70th minute and the ball barely left the visiting penalty area during a sustained assault that culminated in Brahimi skipping past Ramires and missing out on the goal he deserved. 
 
Ivanovic passed up a headed set-piece opportunity and Danilo went even closer in the 82nd minute, setting up a frantic period of stoppage time where Porto's defence managed to scramble to safety and deny the tireless Costa at the death.

Porto 2-1 Chelsea: Mourinho's woes continue as he sufffers yet another defeat

Porto captain Maicon headed a decisive second-half goal to give Porto a 2-1 Champions League win and extend Chelsea's laboured start ...

Soldiers kill Boko Haram kingpin in Borno

21:33 Unknown 0

Troops involved in the ongoing counter insurgency operation in the North-East have killed a terror kingpin around Kwatarha and Torikwaptir general area of Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State. 
 
The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Sani Usman, said in a statement on Tuesday that the terror kingpin said to be wreaking havoc in the area was gunned down during a shootout with soldiers on Monday afternoon. 
 
The Acting Army Spokesman added that the troops recovered an AK 47 rifle from the killed Boko Haram commander. 
He said that four other suspected terrorists escaped with gunshot wounds during the encounter. 
 
Usman added that the troops of the 3 Division arrested a suspected Boko Haram kingpin in Yobe State. 
 
He gave the name of the arrested terror suspect as Alhaji Tijjani Usman Damagum. 
He said the suspect who was now undergoing interrogation led several Boko Haram attacks in Yobe State. 
 
"In an offensive operation to clear Boko Haram terrorists enclave around  Kwatarha and Torikwaptir general area of Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, a notorious Boko Haram terrorist who had been wreaking havoc on  communities was gunned by our troops on Monday afternoon. 
 
"During the operation, four other terrorists were believed to escape with gunshot wounds. An  AK-47 rifle was recovered from him. 
 
"In a related development, troops of 3 Division have arrested a suspected Boko Haram kingpin, Alhaji Tijjani Usman Damagum. He was tracked down and arrested at Damagum town, Yobe State yesterday.

Soldiers kill Boko Haram kingpin in Borno

Troops involved in the ongoing counter insurgency operation in the North-East have killed a terror kingpin around Kwatarha and Torikwaptir g...

Good governance capable of ending terrorism – Buhari

21:33 Unknown 0

President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday said military action alone was not capable of ending the menace of terrorism and extremism currently eating deep into global polity.
He said good governance, which entailed transparency, accountability and rule of law, remains the best way to start the process of ridding the world of terrorism.
Buhari made his position known in a statement he delivered at a Global Leaders' Summit on Countering ISIL and Violent Extremism, organised by President Barack Obama on the sideline of the 70th United Nations General Assembly in New York.
He said while military action was not enough, it was however capable of stemming the tide and reversing the process of recruitment, movement and effective operation of foreign terrorist fighters and their associated radical extremists.
He said while Nigeria notes the efforts being made by the UN and the international community to tackle ISIL, a lot more needs to be done.
Buhari said, "Nigeria notes with satisfaction, the efforts of the United Nations and the rest of the international community to contain ISIL. We certainly need to do more.
"We need to take military action combined with effective border security, intelligence collection and sharing, and vigorous policing action.
"These alone may not suffice, but they can certainly stem the tide and reverse the process of recruitment, movement and effective operation of foreign terrorist fighters and their associated radical extremists.
"In order to put in place the critical components of an effective approach to countering ISIL and eventually defeating it, we must address the threat from the source."
Buhari added that, "We must find a way to prevent young people from turning to terror in the first place. And the young people that turn to violent extremism do not exist in a vacuum – they are often part of communities and families and are lured into the fold of barbaric and nihilistic organisations, somehow, through a misguided appeal to their worst fears, expectations and apparent frustrations. 
"While addressing the causes of this attraction and how to deal with them, we should pay close attention to other manifest factors that may not be tangible but can be crucial.
"Good governance, which entails transparency, accountability and rule of law, remains the basis on which we should kick-start the process of ridding the world of the menace of terrorism and violent extremism.
"The international community will be required to work together to deter and disrupt illicit financial flows from nations with weak anti–theft structures to other parts of the world."
The President said where such funds were identified, the victim state should be assisted to recover them expeditiously.
He said member states need to address local socio-economic grievances by formulating policies that would ensure broad-based transformation through job creation, equalisation of opportunities and expanding access to social services.
He added that African leaders also needed to rededicate themselves to uphold the mandate of the African Union Peer Review Mechanism, and other good governance initiatives that they have adopted in the region, to encourage conformity with political, economic and corporate governance values.

Good governance capable of ending terrorism – Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday said military action alone was not capable of ending the menace of terrorism and extremism currently e...

Boko Haram, terrorism not about Islam – Fashola

21:33 Unknown 0

Gormer Governor of Lagos State and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Babatunde Fashola, has said acts of terrorism currently perpetrated by Boko Haram and other insurgents in the country have nothing to do with Islam or its tenets.
Speaking at the public presentation of a book, 'Frontiers of Jihad: Radical Islam in Africa', written by Dr. Yinka Olomojobi, held on Monday at the MUSON Centre, Lagos, Fashola noted that a religion, whose foundation was peace, such as Islam, could not be the foundation or excuse for acts of murder, rape, savagery, pillaging and terror. 
Commending the author of the book for intellectualising the ongoing discourse on the real identities and motives of terrorists masquerading as promoters of the Islamic faith, he urged Muslims and other Nigerians not to accept any reason given by the criminals to explain their actions.
Fashola said, "It is sheer propaganda to fool the general public and to deceive people in the name of a faith whose tenets they themselves breach and violate. The simple truth is that we have allowed the voices of a few criminals to rise above that of billions of law abiding global citizens.
"What we are dealing with is a new wave of crime by criminals who seem to have an edge because of the need for a new global order and the gaps created by globalisation." 
The former Lagos State governor warned that guns alone nor nuclear weapons would not defeat terrorists nor wipe away terrorism.
He said a solution was possible through a collective agreement that terrorism had nothing to with religion as well as a collective decision to stop helping to promote the brands of insurgents by calling their names. 
"That will expose them for what and who they are and help us to defeat them," he said.
The event also had in attendance Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State, who was represented by Dr. Adeleke Ipaye; Pastor Tunde Bakare; the Executive Secretary of Muslim Ummah in South-West, Prof. Daud Noibi; Chairman of Safari Books Limited, Chief Joop Berkhout and Chief Lekan Alabi, among others.

Boko Haram, terrorism not about Islam – Fashola

Gormer Governor of Lagos State and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Babatunde Fashola, has said acts of terrorism currently perpetrated by Boko H...

Tinubu didn’t support my re-election as Senator – Wife

18:25 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G9ErTeN-afY/VgrGUM_M9kI/AAAAAAACFaI/ROC1ZmdWQLE/s1600/Tinubu%2BWIFE-360x225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G9ErTeN-afY/VgrGUM_M9kI/AAAAAAACFaI/ROC1ZmdWQLE/s400/Tinubu%2BWIFE-360x225.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
 
Senator Oluremi Tinubu on Tuesday said she did not get the support of her husband, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, to run for a second term in the past National Assembly election. 
 
Tinubu, who represents Lagos Central Senatorial District, made the disclosure while answering questions at the ongoing ‘Women in Government’ conference organised by the South-West Region of the Department For International Development. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
The conference was organised in collaboration with the Lagos State Office of the Deputy Governor. 
 
She said it was her district leaders who got the nomination form for her and talked her husband into allowing her to run for the position. 
 
The federal lawmaker added, “Asiwaju likes his wife to be at home and what is more confusing to me is that most Muslim men do not want their wives to work, but I am a hard worker. 
 
“People have been saying that I got to this position because I am Asiwaju’s wife. What they do not realise is that in the past election, my husband asked me not to go for a second term. It was the leaders in my district that got me the form and talked to him that they wanted me to go back. 
 
“You can go to my district, the elite might not know me but the grassroots are the ones supporting and voting massively for me. 
 
“I think that is enough for me and that is how you can get elected; you have to really identify with your people. If you really know your people, they will stand up for you.” 
 
Tinubu said she fought and worked hard as it was difficult getting the vote of the masses. 
 
She stated, “When I got the bill to run for primaries, I told my husband that I needed money and he said ‘no money’. 
 
“I fought with the people in my constituency because they said I have to give them more money and I said ‘no, what about the ones I have been giving to you before? If you are not going to vote, so be it’. 
 
“They said they were just voting for me because of Asiwaju and I responded that ‘Asiwaju is not even supporting me, then, you can go and vote for him’. But I’m grateful they voted for me. 
 
“I have realised that when you are elected, you have to go back and work with your constituency because that is where your support and vote rest.”

Tinubu didn’t support my re-election as Senator – Wife

Senator Oluremi Tinubu on Tuesday said she did not get the support of her husband, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, to run for a second term in the p...

We’ll kill corruption, solve power problem – Osinbajo

18:25 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XF7kYJjMgPg/VgrF4JLaqZI/AAAAAAACFaA/ivuZWoQDC28/s1600/osinbajo%2Boffice%2Bnew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XF7kYJjMgPg/VgrF4JLaqZI/AAAAAAACFaA/ivuZWoQDC28/s640/osinbajo%2Boffice%2Bnew.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, has said the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, is determined to stamp out corruption and solve power problem, which have become an incessant problem in Nigeria. 
 
Osinbajo said this in his address on Tuesday at the seventh convocation of the Redeemer’s University, Ede in Osun State. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
The vice president said the members of the administration who were daily being confronted with the negative effect of years of massive theft of the nation’s resources were convinced that Nigeria needed to stop corruption for it to survive. 
 
He said, ” Most importantly, we must defeat the scourge that has brought us to our knees as a nation. 
“For those of us who daily see the damage that theft and wastage of public resources have done to us as a nation, we agree with President Muhammadu Buhari that if we don’t kill corruption, corruption will kill us.” 
 
“We are determined to solve the problem of power in Nigeria. Regular power supply will open up industries, will help small and media scale enterprises to do their businesses without cost of petrol and diesel and their generators. 
 
“We are determined to establish technology parks, these are specially designed places provided with power and Internet to young people interested technology as business to have a platform to operate from.” 
 
He stated that the administration would also invest in agriculture to boost food production and to create jobs for millions of Nigerians. 
 
To achieve this, the vice president disclosed that the Federal Government was cooperating seven states in the production or rice, cassava, cashew nuts and other crops. 
 
All these, he said, were efforts of the administration to bring Nigeria to the level of self sufficiency in food production.

We’ll kill corruption, solve power problem – Osinbajo

Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, has said the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, is determined to stamp out corruption and ...

Trial of Saraki: Tread softly, Dogara cautions FG

17:55 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uX-ndnSwprg/Vgq-vwvPPiI/AAAAAAACFZw/kjhBXBjCOA8/s1600/Speaker-of-the-House-of-Representatives-Yakubu-Dogara-360x225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uX-ndnSwprg/Vgq-vwvPPiI/AAAAAAACFZw/kjhBXBjCOA8/s400/Speaker-of-the-House-of-Representatives-Yakubu-Dogara-360x225.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
 
 
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara has called for caution over the ongoing trial of the President of the Senate, Senator Bukola Saraki. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
In his welcome address, the speaker on the matter concerning Saraki who is scheduled for trial by the Code of Conduct Tribunal ,CCT, for false declaration of assets in October 2015, commended the Senate President for submitting himself to the jurisdiction of the CCT. Both principal officers emerged leaders of the Parliament, against the wishes of their party, the APC. Supporters of Saraki have insisted he is being persecuted for flouting the orders of the party. 
 
 
Dogara, in his message to the members of the House following resumption from a six week summer recess, Tuesday, also commended the members for ‘avoiding further escalation through media commentaries’. “The barometer of the polity has been on the rise of late because of certain developments concerning the arraignment of the President of the Senate. 
 
 
While commending the President of the Senate for submitting himself to the jurisdiction of the Code of Conduct Tribunal in the recognition that no person is above the law, I wish to caution that there is need for great circumspection in times such as this in order to maintain proper focus in pursuit of the common good,” he said. 
 
The Speaker added that the report of the House Adhoc Committee for Code of Conduct for members, which has been submitted, will be considered, to set higher standards. “…in the performance of our onerous task of over-sighting the other arms of government, we must at all times remind ourselves that we are equally being over-sighted by the people whose mandate we hold and indeed ultimately by God. 
 
 
We will therefore do well to adopt the righteous doctrine of leadership by example, only then shall we be able to face accountability with confidence,”Dogara said. Speaking further, the Speaker commended the introduction of the Treasury Single Account (TSA) policy as a measure to curb revenue leakages and ensure accountability. 
 
He noted that the problem of uncontrollable leakages have been a source of concern to the Parliament and public finance management over the years. Dogara however noted that extra-budgetary expenditure constitutes revenue leakages, in accordance with Section 80 of the constitution. 
“The recent submission by the Federal Ministry of Finance which revealed extra budgetary expenditure running into billions of Naira shows that Ministries, Departments and Agencies are yet to grasp the full import of revenue leakages in the contemplation of Section 80 of the Constitution,” he said.

Trial of Saraki: Tread softly, Dogara cautions FG

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara has called for caution over the ongoing trial of the President of the Senate, ...

READ: Buhari delivers impressive speech on anti-corruption, SDGs, Chibok Girls at the United Nations General Assembly

17:40 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>
 
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UUECC4_d5aI/Vgq8XhBru-I/AAAAAAACFZk/ld2cHGDV0vA/s1600/buhari%2Bun%2Bgen%2Bassm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UUECC4_d5aI/Vgq8XhBru-I/AAAAAAACFZk/ld2cHGDV0vA/s640/buhari%2Bun%2Bgen%2Bassm.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 President Muhammadu Buhari left an impression at the 70th United Nations General Assembly in New York by the time he finished because of the quality of  his speech.  
 
Known for his anti-corruption stance, Buhari took same message to the UNGA but also took time to reflect on the triumph over Islamist sect, Boko Haram and the chances of getting Chibok Girls back. 
 
Read full speech below 
 
ADDRESS BY MUHAMMADU BUHARI, 
PRESIDENT, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA AT THE 70TH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY, 
NEW YORK, 28TH SEPTEMBER 2015. 
 President of the General Assembly, 
Secretary–General 
Your Excellencies Heads of State and Governments 
Distinguished Delegates 
Ladies and Gentlemen, 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
I would like, Mr. President, on behalf of the Government and people of Nigeria, to congratulate you and your country on your election to preside over the 70th session of the U.N. General Assembly. 
 
2. May I also express appreciation to your predecessor, Mr. Sam Kahamba Kutesa and the Secretary General Mr. Ban Ki-moon both of whom worked tirelessly to ensure proper articulation of the post-2015 Development Agenda and to maintain the focus and commitment to the ideals of the United Nations. I thank Mr. Ban Ki-moon for his recent visit to Nigeria when we held very useful discussions. 
 
Mr. President, 
3. Fifty-five (55) years ago almost to the day, my great predecessor, Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa stood on this forum to declare Nigeria’s desire to develop and maintain friendly relations with all countries. He also assured the world of our country’s commitment to uphold the principles upon which the United Nations was founded. 
 
4. Mr. President, my country, Nigeria, has lived by this conviction, even when judgement went against us in territorial disputes with our neighbours. We respected those judgements and abided by them as a mark of respect for the rule of law and the charter of this organization. Nigeria’s record in the U.N. peacekeeping is second to none. I myself as a young officer in the Nigerian Army did tours of duty in Congo and the Lebanon. 
 
5. Nigeria has contributed to U.N. peacekeeping efforts in Ethiopia, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Darfur. Furthermore, we are proud of our contributions to other activities of the U.N. including the Peace Building Commission, the Human Rights Council and security sector reform. 
 
Mr. President, 
 
6. We are gratified to note that most countries have pledged commitment to the post-2015 Development Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with their means of implementation. The successor frameworks of the MDGs have come, Mr. President, with lofty aspirations and if I may say so, heroic assumptions! Nonetheless, they target development cooperation by the international community up to the year 2020. And they deserve universal support. 
 
7. This is because the SDGs mirror the hopes and aspirations of much of the world. 
 
8. I should stress that for the newly adopted SDGs to be truly global, they must be practical. In this regard, the SDGs’ core objectives of poverty eradication and reducing inequalities must be met within the framework of a revitalized global partnership support by concrete policies and actions as outlined in the Addis Ababa Action Agenda. 
 
9. Luckily, these two core objectives of the SDGs are precisely at the centre of Nigeria’s new Administration’s agenda. It must be emphasized, Mr. President, that Foreign Direct Investment supplemented where suitable by Official Development Assistance as outlined in the Addis Ababa Agenda are necessary, though not sufficient, conditions for accelerated development in countries that are trying to catch up. 
 
10. In this connexion, I would like to appeal to industrialized countries to redeem their pledge of earmarking 0.7% (nought point seven percent) of their GDP to development assistance. With the sole exception of the UK, all concerned countries have, I am told to meet the UN requirement. But, Mr. President, with SDGs we have the opportunity to improve the lives of people not just in the developing world but in all nations. 
 
11. The Secretary General himself has grouped the SDGs into what he calls six “essential elements” namely: 
• Dignity 
• Prosperity 
• Justice 
• Partnership 
• Planet 
• People 
As a prerequisite to these and as we look at history and remember the terrible events that gave rise to the birth of the United Nations in 1945, I would like to propose a seventh: 
• PEACE 
 
12. Peace, Mr. President, is close to the hearts of Nigerians, as we are in the front line in the war on terror. Boko Haram’s war against the people of Nigeria, Chad, Niger and Cameroon may not attract as much worldwide attention as the wars in the Middle East but the suffering is just as great and the human cost is equally high. 
 
13. This is a war about values between progress and chaos; between democracy and the rule of law. Boko Haram celebrates violence against the weak and the innocent and deplorably, they hide behind their perverted interpretation of Islam. Boko Haram is as far away from Islam as any one can think of. 
14. Many of my colleagues attending this forum would want to know how our new government intends to tackle the huge problems the government has inherited. Friends of Nigeria and foreign investor partners will be encouraged to know that the new Government is attacking the problems we inherited head-on. 
 
15. We intend to tackle inequalities arising from massive unemployment and previous government policies favouring a few people to the detriment of the many. We intend to emphasize quality technological education for development and lay foundation for comprehensive care of the aged, the disadvantaged and the infirm. But for now terrorism is the immediate problem. 
 
16. Accordingly, Mr. President, Members of the General Assembly, the new Nigerian Government which I have the honour to head, moved with dispatch to put in a bold and robust strategy to defeat Boko Haram. Nigeria and her neighbours Cameroon, Chad and Niger plus Benin are working together to face this common threat within the regional framework of the Lake Chad Basin Commission. We have established a multinational joint task force to confront, degrade and defeat Boko Haram. 
 
17. We have driven them away from many of their strongholds, killed or captured many of their operatives or commanders and freed several hundreds of hostages. 
 
18. Mr. President, one of our major aims is to rescue the Chibok girls alive and unharmed. We are working round the clock to ensure their safety and eventual reunion with their families. Chibok girls are constantly on our minds and in our plans. 
 
19. Mr. President, terrorism is by no means the major or the only evil threatening and undermining the wellbeing of societies around the world. 
• Corruption 
• Cross border financial crimes 
• Cyber crimes 
• Human trafficking 
• Spread of communicable diseases 
• Climate change 
• Proliferation of weapons 
are all major challenges of the 21st century which the international community must tackle collectively. Let me reaffirm Nigerian government’s unwavering commitment to fight corruption and illicit financial flows. By any consideration, corruption and cross border financial crimes are impediments to development, economic growth, and the realization of the wellbeing of citizens across the globe. 
 
20. Nigeria is ready and willing to partner with international agencies and individual countries on a bilateral basis to confront crimes and corruption. In particular, I call upon the global community to urgently redouble efforts towards strengthening the mechanisms for dismantling safe havens for proceeds of corruption and ensuring the return of stolen funds and assets to their countries of origin. 
 
21. Mr. President, the world is now facing a big new challenge: human trafficking. This is an old evil taking an altogether new and dangerous dimension threatening to upset international relationships. 
We in Africa are grieved to see on international networks how hundreds of thousands of our able bodied men and women fleeing to Europe and in the process thousands dying in the desert or drowning in the Mediterranean. 
 
22. We condemn in the strongest terms these people traffickers and will support any measures to apprehend and bring them to justice. At the same time, we are very appreciative of European governments notably Italy and Germany, for their understanding and humane treatment of these refugees. 
 
23. Last year, our continent faced the dreadful occurrence of Ebola. We sincerely thank the international community for the collective efforts to contain this deadly disease. We are not out of the woods yet but we would like to record our appreciation to the United States, United Kingdom, France and China for their outstanding assistance in arresting the spread of Ebola and care of those infected in collaboration with host countries. 
 
Mr. President, 
24. Nigeria fully subscribes to and fully endorses Goals 13, 14 and 15 of the SDGs regarding Climate Change. In Nigeria, desertification and land erosion and degradation leading to biodiversity loss are real threats to our environment and we shall propose under the auspices of the Lake Chad Basin Commission a regional approach to combat these environmental challenges. 
25. We look forward to the UN Summit on climate change in Paris in December 2015. This summit should provide optimism to humanity on addressing the looming threat faced by many communities around the world. 
 
Mr. President, 
26. We are witnessing a dreadful increase in conflicts fuelled by availability of small arms and light weapons. I call upon all member countries to demonstrate the political will needed to uphold the UN charter. For a start, a robust implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty will guarantee that small arms and light weapons are only legally transferred. Arms traffickers and human traffickers are two evil species which the world community should eradicate. 
 
Mr. President, 
27. As we engage in these annual debates, we need remind ourselves of the principles that led to the founding of the United Nations. Among those are peaceful coexistence and self-determination of peoples. In this context, Mr. President, the unresolved question of self-determination for the Palestinian people and those of Western Sahara, both nations having been adjusted by the United Nations as qualifying for this inalienable right must now be assured and fulfilled without any further delay or obstacle. 
 
28. The international community has come to pin its hopes on resolving the Palestinian issue through the two – states solution which recognises the legitimate right of each state to exist in peace and security. The world has no more excuses or reasons to delay the implementation of the long list of Security Council resolutions on this question. Neither do we have the moral right to deny any people their freedom or condemn them indefinitely to occupation and blockade 
Mr. President, delegates of member countries, 
 
29. UN is 70 years old. It can count many more than 70 major achievements as the world’s forum and family reunion. It is my hope that in the next 70 years, it will achieve control of climate, help to eliminate communicable diseases, eliminate major and local conflicts and therefore eliminate the problem of refugees, take major steps towards reducing harmful inequalities between nations and within nations and above all, eliminate nuclear weapons. 
 
30. Mr. President, as this is my first address in this Assembly, I thank you and the delegates for listening so patiently.

READ: Buhari delivers impressive speech on anti-corruption, SDGs, Chibok Girls at the United Nations General Assembly

President Muhammadu Buhari left an impression at the 70th United Nations General Assembly in New York by the time he finished because of...

CAF fines Nigeria $5,000 for fans’ misconduct at Nigeria vs Chad match

17:25 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gRTBFxTXEng/Vgq6X0NDihI/AAAAAAACFZI/-wC1eOZuUR0/s1600/Caf-logo-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gRTBFxTXEng/Vgq6X0NDihI/AAAAAAACFZI/-wC1eOZuUR0/s640/Caf-logo-.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has fined Nigeria 5,000 Dollars for fans misconduct during its first leg 2017 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier match on June 13. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
The decision of the continent’s football governing body was released on its website in Abuja on Tuesday. It said that the decision was reached at its disciplinary board meeting on Sept. 20. 
 
NAN reports that fans rushed into the pitch to celebrate the Super Eagles’ second goal in the match played at the Kaduna Stadium, Kaduna. 
The encounter ended in 2-0 in favour of the Eagles. The victory placed Nigeria is the second position in Group G with four points behind Egypt which has six points.

CAF fines Nigeria $5,000 for fans’ misconduct at Nigeria vs Chad match

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has fined Nigeria 5,000 Dollars for fans misconduct during its first leg 2017 African Cup of N...

Ebisan: Proudly Nigerian! - Femi Aribisala

17:25 Unknown 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IzmjfuOGVH4/Vgq4K-aCKHI/AAAAAAACFY0/cZ_DVbrjy58/s1600/nigeria%2Bface.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IzmjfuOGVH4/Vgq4K-aCKHI/AAAAAAACFY0/cZ_DVbrjy58/s400/nigeria%2Bface.png" width="400" /></a></div>
 
Two days to another October 1 independence anniversary, and all is bleak and depressing on the Nigerian front. No self-congratulatory messages. No stadium march-pass and celebrations. All we are getting is a steady diet of prison-rations: “Nigeria is corrupt.” “The treasury is empty.” “Recession is knocking at the door.” With all the attendant political hullaballoo, you get the impression that even the very country called Nigeria is going to be probed and sent to jail. 
 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
But the saying goes: “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” This is no time to drown ourselves in the Slough of Despond. This is the time to dig deep and encourage ourselves. This is the time to remind ourselves who we are. We are Nigerians and that means a lot more than the four-one-niners and the yahoo-yahoo maestros. There is something different; something wonderful; something special about Nigerians. Whatever the situation, we must never forget to celebrate who we are. 
 
That is why, on this 55th independence anniversary of Nigeria, it is exciting to find national inspiration from an unusual source. While our president goes to the United Nations and bemoans, once again our corruption; while a political civil war has been declared between the presidency and the legislature by the mischievous embarrassment of the Senate president, a little-known voice from our burgeoning music industry decided it is time to celebrate our Nigerian-ness. 
 
Nigeria’s new music sensation, EBISAN, has come out with her new single; just in time for our October 1 independence anniversary. It is entitled “THE NIGERIANS” and it provides tonic to our weary national soul. Thank God, Ebisan does not dwell on our struggles at national integration. She does not insist on the hemorrhage of our corruption. She does not bring out another litany of our misgivings, our doubts and our despair. 
 
Surely, we need a holiday from all of this for a change. What she gives us is a new national anthem; a new rallying-cry to remember who we are. We are Nigerians for heaven’s sake, and even in these difficult times, that is more than enough. 
 Mighty Nigerians 
 
“Everywhere we go; People always ask us; Who we are; And we always tell them: We are Nigerians; Mighty, Mighty Nigerians. And if they can’t hear us, Then we’ll shout a little louder.” 
 
When I heard this single for the first time, I was inspired. I thought: “That’s telling!” Then I thought about it again. Who are we really? The answer is so simple, it easy to forget. It is so simple, it can easily be overlooked. It is so simple, we need every so often to remind ourselves. We are Nigerians. We are Nigerians. Thank God, we are Nigerians. 
 
There are certain inevitabilities about Nigeria and Nigerians. Our country has a manifest destiny to be one of the greatest countries in the world. In spite of everything, Nigeria remains a miracle waiting to happen. That miracle is not going to be worked by foreign investment. It is going to be worked by Nigerians, because, when all is said and done, we are a very resourceful people. It is not only with regard to the people of Warri: the time is coming when Nigerians will refuse to carry last. 
 Incredible Nigerians 
 
“Every day we get better; There’s so much that they need to know like; Every day we get stronger; It’s amazing the way we grow. Yes we are, we are incredible,” 
 
It’s not for nothing that we are the largest Black Country on the planet. It’s not for nothing that we are now the biggest economy in Africa. It is not for nothing that Hakeem Bello-Osagie is a Nigerian. Aliko Dangote is a Nigerian. Olisa Agbakoba is a Nigerian. Udoma Udo Udoma is a Nigeria. Odein Ajumogobia is a Nigerian. Jide Akintunde is a Nigerian. Patrick Utomi is a Nigerian. 
 
Nigeria’s greatest assets are Nigerians. In every walk of life, at home and abroad; Nigerians excel. Everywhere and anywhere, you will find us in the Premier League. 
 
Q: What is so incredible about Nigerians? Ebisan: There are so many things but I’ll mention just two. The way we deal with adversity is amazing to me. When going through tough times or hard conditions, we refuse to have a defeatist attitude. I believe Nigerians are the most resilient people in the world. The second thing about us that I love is that wherever you go, you always know when there’s a Nigerian around. We stand out; we are a unique and are very special people and we need to apply our smartness to more positive things. 
 
Front-running Nigerians 
 
“So when they come a little closer; They are blown away by the skills we show them. No we don’t act like we’re supposed to; We take the lead, no follow follow; ’Cause we are, we are, we are incredible.” 
 
Nigerians are a completely different kettle of black Africans. We have not been brow-beaten by colonialism or apartheid. We are not intimidated by Western prowess. The Nigerian psychology refuses to accept the myth that the black man is somehow intellectually inferior to the white man. You can see this in operation everywhere. The Nigerian stands shoulder to shoulder vis-à-vis whites and Westerners and, in many cases, bests them. We only become second-best when we come together as a team, as a people and as a country. But all that will pass. 
 
Q: What are the potentials you currently see in Nigeria? Ebisan: More SME’s are being set up, there is more competition within the service industry, and I also see that my generation is producing a lot more entrepreneurs. The mindset is changing and we are aware that our oil will not last forever. Other industries such as the entertainment and fashion industries are rapidly growing and even attracting foreign interest. There is a lot happening around us to make me optimistic about where we are heading. 
 
Game-changing Nigerians 
 
“So tell me do you feel me now; We are changing the game over and over; You know there’s no denying; We are on our way to the stars.” 
 
Nigeria confounds every dire prognostication. The news of the disintegration of Nigeria has been highly exaggerated. We were not supposed to survive 2015. But we are still here. We are still on our way; and we remain the only hope for the black man in the comity of nations. 
 
Q: What gives you the impression Nigeria is on the way to the top? Ebisan: Perhaps it’s the optimist in me but I truly sense that we are on a general quest for change, real tangible change. If we were ever guilty of complacency in the past, I feel it is no longer the case. A lot has happened this year that has made me feel very hopeful about where we are going as a nation, from the way the elections were carried out to the enlightened conversations I have had with different individuals. We know we have a long road ahead but we are willing to be better. 
 
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xe-2QpwKung/Vgq5hJYgKrI/AAAAAAACFZA/I28q8uUvgso/s1600/ebisan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xe-2QpwKung/Vgq5hJYgKrI/AAAAAAACFZA/I28q8uUvgso/s640/ebisan.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
 
Q: What is currently holding Nigeria back? Ebisan: We need more people to step up and play their part, however small it may be. The onus is not only on the government to make changes. Great nations are built from individuals taking personal responsibility for the growth of their country and optimising their gifts and opportunities. Constant complaints with little action do none of us any good. 
 
Bold Nigerians 
 
“Look at the way we talk; Look at the way we walk. We hold our heads up high; Far too bold to be shy.” 
 
If a Nigerian is somewhere, you will know. Someone told me that Nigerians are even easily recognisable at immigration posts all around the world. He says they know we are the only black Africans who look you straight in the eye without batting an eyelid. We fear no one. We are as bold as a lion. I never quite liked the logo of an elephant. Something heavy and ungainly about that. But we are better represented by the eagle. We are ready to soar, even into the eye of the storm. 
 
Q: What are you trying to achieve with this single? 
 
Ebisan: I want us to remember how awesome we are as a people whenever we listen to the song. I wrote ‘THE NIGERIANS’ to remind fellow Nigerians that there is nothing we cannot overcome because we are bold, fearless people. I want people to be proud of their roots whenever they listen to the song. To remember that they are Nigerians first! So that whether you are in heavy traffic in Lagos, selling on the streets of Benin, mining in Nasarawa, or cooking white soup in Calabar, a smile will cross your face as soon as this song comes up. 
 Happy birthday, Nigeria 
 
Q: Tell us about your new single, “THE NIGERIANS” and why you wrote it. 
 
 Ebisan: I usually write love songs and am generally inspired by love, this single is not far off from that. I love my country (I no go lie…hahaha) and I decided to write about it. Some people meet us and wonder why we have the audacity to be so bold, some people are endeared to us, either way it is never a lukewarm feeling. We conjure up strong emotions in whomever we meet and that’s intriguing to me. I decided to write about it. 
 
Q: Do you intend to write other songs about Nigeria? 
 
 Ebisan: I already have another song I wrote about Nigeria years ago, I am considering releasing that in the future as part of my upcoming album. 
 
Q: How come your single can be downloaded for free? 
 
Ebisan: My single can only be streamed for free but not downloaded for free. It is for sale on iTunes and all other online music stores.