Nigerian Gossip

Cross River breaks Nigeria’s budget record; hits N1 trillion

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Gov. Ben Ayade of Cross River has presented a budget of N1.3 trillion for the 2018 fiscal year to the Cross River House of Assembly for deliberation and passage, the News Agency of Nigeria reports. 
The budget is the largest for a single state in Nigeria’s history. 
 
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Lagos state held the record with its N812 billion budget for 2017. The state has indicated its 2018 budget may also hit N1 trillion. 
 
Most states in Nigeria propose budgets at average N150 billion to N300 billion. 
 
The biggest annual spenders are Lagos, Rivers and Akwa Ibom. The entire federal budget for 2018 is a little above N8 trillion. 
 
Gov. Ayade, who presented the budget on Thursday in Calabar, said the proposal was designed to add value to the socio-economic development and well being of the people of the state. 
 
Mr. Ayade, who tagged the budget as “Budget of Kinetic Crystallisation’’, said it was meant to “crystallise” what the state had achieved in the past two years of his administration. 
 
He said the priority of the budget was to develop the state’s deep sea port and the super highway which he said were his two marked projects. 
 
The governor said 70 per cent of the budget was for capital expenditure and 30 per cent,re-current expenditure. 
 
According to him, the size of the budget is expected to create room for potential investors, now that the annual construction of the state deep sea port and superhighway has commenced. 
 
He added that the budget was for actualisation and implementation of the state deep sea port, super highway and other laudable projects earmarked for completion. 
 
“The 2018 budget of N1.3 trillion, tagged `Kinetic Crystallisations’, is meant to drive the economy of the state to an enviable height. 
 
“The sum of N126 billion was budgeted for the Ministry of Infrastructure. This is to help us develop critical assets in the state. 
 
“N7 billion was also budgeted for the state job centre with a view to helping us train our unemployed youths with marketable job skills. 
 
“Also, we have budgeted N2 billion for our school feeding programme. In addition to that, we also budgeted N52 billion for social welfare to care for the aged. 
 
“My administration is human friendly and my desire is to ensure that every family has what to eat before going to bed,’’ he said. 
 
The governor further said that the garment factory, with 1,000 workers, would be increased to 3,000 in 2018 as part of his administration’s drive to engage the unemployed in the state. 
 
NAN reports that the 2018 budget is far higher than the 2017 budget of N301 billion. 
 
Responding, the Speaker of the Assembly, John Gaul-Lebo, commended the governor for commencing work on the deep sea port and the super highway. 
 
Mr. Gaul-Lebo said that the two projects, when completed, would attract more investors to the state and improve its revenue profile. 
 
He assured the governor of the assembly’s continued support for the economic and political growth of the state. 
 
(NAN)

Cross River breaks Nigeria’s budget record; hits N1 trillion

Gov. Ben Ayade of Cross River has presented a budget of N1.3 trillion for the 2018 fiscal year to the Cross River House of Assembly for d...

Mugabe recovering from cold after “resignation shock”

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(dpa/NAN) Catholic priest and long-standing friend of Mugabe, Fidelis Mukonori says ousted Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe is in good spirits, though recovering from a touch of cold. 
 
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Mukonori said on Thursday that Mugabe was still in his Harare mansion with his wife Grace, whose unpopularity was a catalyst behind a bloodless military coup earlier this month. 
 
“He is at his house in Borrowdale, I talked to him a few days ago and he was in high spirits, he said he was recuperating from the cold but is generally okay,’’ he said. 
 
Mugabe’s sons, Robert Junior and Chatunga, who are known for their lavish playboy lifestyle, are outside the country but Mukonori refused to disclose the exact location. 
 
The 93-year-old’s almost four decades in power were marred by human rights abuses, corruption and the destruction of the country’s once vibrant economy. 
 
Mugabe’s former deputy Emmerson Mnangagwa was sworn in as president recently. 
 
While Mnangagwa was quick to hail Mugabe as a father figure and laud his role in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, he also promised a new chapter for the country. 
 
The ruling Zanu-PF party said it would not be calling for the former president’s prosecution over alleged crimes, with some media reporting the Mugabes had been given a multi-million dollar retirement package instead. 
 
“Mugabe is our elder statesman, he deserves respect. 
 
“He is not going to be prosecuted,’’ Zanu PF deputy legal secretary Paul Mangwana told newsmen, refusing to comment on any financial settlement negotiated before Mugabe’s exit.

Mugabe recovering from cold after “resignation shock”

(dpa/NAN) Catholic priest and long-standing friend of Mugabe, Fidelis Mukonori says ousted Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe is in good ...

VIDEO: Like father, like son - Cristiano Ronaldo's 7-year old son scores stunning freekick

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VIDEO: Like father, like son - Cristiano Ronaldo's 7-year old son scores stunning freekick

Presidency approved $40 million contract to Jonathan’s cousin’s firm, EFCC tells Court

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Trial of a cousin to former President Goodluck Jonathan, Mr. Azibaola Robert and his wife, Stella, took a new dimension on Thursday, as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, told the Federal High Court in Abuja that payment for $40million contract that was awarded to the defendants’ firm, Oneplus Holdings Limited, was duly authorised by the Presidency. 
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Azibola and his wife, Stella, are answering to a seven-count criminal charge the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, preferred against them. 
 
At the resumed hearing, the 10th Prosecution witness, PW-10, in the case, Mr. David Mkpe, who is an EFCC operative that investigated the deal between the company and the Office of the National Security Adviser, NSA, told trial Justice Nnamdi Dimgba that he was aware of a Presidential memo approving both the contract and payment for the job. Mkpe, who was cross examined by the defence counsel, Mr. Chris Uche, SAN, told the court that his investigative team case across the memo from the ONSA, which he said okayed the payment of $40 million to Oneplus Holdings Ltd. 
 
Mkpe also admitted that the $40 million paid to Oneplus was not the only payment for security assignment from accounts of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, through the Office of the NSA under Col. Sambo Dasuki, rtd. Asked if he saw the memo from ONSA through which the payment of $40m was made to Oneplus account, Mkpe replied, “Yes, my lord. The payment was duly authorised by the NSA.” He said: “My lord funds from which the $40m was paid to Oneplus came from NNPC funds. 
 
In March 2014, Lt-Col Sambo Dasuki (rtd) wrote a memo to the President entitled “Intervention in Urgent National Security Project” through which he sought the approval of Mr. President for the sum of $1bn for subheads and surveillance of pipelines and additional request for $250m. “The President gave approval to his request. The President approved the release of the sum of $1.2bn. In May the sum of $1.2bn was then released from NNPC accounts. “ It was this fund that was disbursed to various recipients. 
 
The $40m was part of the $1.2bn statutorily approved and released for urgent national security intervention. I can confirm.” EFCC is prosecuting the defendants for allegedly diverting $40 million purportedly meant for the supply of tactical communication kits for Nigeria’s Special Forces. 
 
The funds were alleged to have been transferred from the account of the Office of the NSA with the Central Bank of Nigeria to the domiciliary account of their company, OnePlus Holdings. The offence, according to the EFCC, contravenes Section 8(a) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act, 2011 as amended in 2012 and punishable under Section 15 (3) of the same Act. Justice Nnamd Dimgba has adjourned the trial to 22 and 23 January 2018 to enable the defence to cross examine more of the prosecution witnesses.

Presidency approved $40 million contract to Jonathan’s cousin’s firm, EFCC tells Court

Trial of a cousin to former President Goodluck Jonathan, Mr. Azibaola Robert and his wife, Stella, took a new dimension on Thursday, as...

I take responsibility for Maina’s reinstatement – Perm Sec

19:58 Unknown 0

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The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Mr Abubakar Magaji, has owned up to administrative lapses in the purported reinstatement of dismissed former Chairman, Pension Reform Task Team, Abdulrasheed Maina. 
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Magaji conceded the responsibility when he appeared before members of House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee investigating the “disappearance, reappearance, reinstatement and promotion of Maina’’ in Abuja on Thursday. 
 
According to him, the reference letter made to inform the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation that Maina resumed duty was a letter sent to the Federal Civil Service Commission. 
 
“When I observed this upon resumption from sick leave, I quickly replied to the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Winifred Oyo-Ita, apologising to her about the reference letter. 
 
“But service is an institution, whatever happened in the process of the minutes, the permanent secretary is the head of the administration and I am here to take responsibility. 
 
“Whatever the Interior Ministry has done wrongly in accordance with the way the administrative matter has been done to the end of this matter, I take responsibility because I cannot reject. 
 
“I am the permanent secretary, head of administration and I take responsibility for any administrative wrongdoing that Ministry of Interior has done,’’ Magaji said. 
 
Earlier, Oyo-Ita had insisted that the ministry acted in error on the issue. 
 
She stated that the letter of Maina’s reinstatement was not endorsed by the Head of Civil Service of the Federation and the letter of posting not delivered to him. 
 
According to her, the Ministry of Interior did not wait to get posting directives from the Head of Civil Service but it went ahead to act on advance copy issued by the Federal Civil Service Commission. 
 
Oyo-Ita, therefore, insisted that Maina was not reinstated into the service. 
 
“The Federal Civil Service Commission considered the administrative aspect of the case which is punishable by dismissal and the letter reinstating Maina has not been delivered. 
 
“Therefore, he stands dismissed and was never reinstated into the service,’’ she said. 
 
In his submission, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Mr Abubakar Malami, said that his office had commenced investigation into the letter directing Maina’s reinstatement. 
 
Malami said that though work was in progress over Maina’s demand to be reinstated based on a court judgment, “the letter of his reinstatement may not have emanated from my office as at Oct. 5, 2017’’. 
 
He maintained that he did not author nor sign letters purported to have emanated from his office directing the Federal Civil Service Commission to cause Maina’s reinstatement. 
 
“The request for Maina’s reinstatement as submitted to my office by Maina’s lawyers was a work-in-progress as at Oct. 5, 2017,’’ he added. 
 
He told the committee that he had set up a panel of enquiry headed by the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry to investigate issues revolving around the letter.

I take responsibility for Maina’s reinstatement – Perm Sec

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Mr Abubakar Magaji, has owned up to administrative lapses in the purported reinstatement of...

Christmas Traditions in Nigeria

19:28 Unknown 0

Christmas Traditions in Nigeria

Goodluck Was Never Power Hungry – Saraki

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President of the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki, said former President Goodluck Jonathan was never desperate for power, but got there by providence. 
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He stated this on Thursday in Abuja at the unveiling of a book titled “On a Platter of Gold“ written by Mallam Bolaji Abudullahi, National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC). 
Saraki, who was the chief host of the occasion, said “a country produces the kind of leadership it gets’’. 
 
“I think it is us Nigerians, that produce the kind of leaders we get; no matter what you say about Jonathan, I don’t think he was someone who was desperate for power,“ he said. 
 
He added that Jonathan was not someone that was prepared for leadership but became the president of the country either by “misfortune or fortune“. 
 
The president of the senate added that it was unfortunate that Nigerians knew the right things to do, but would not do it but would keep playing the blame game. 
 
He expressed optimism that the book would be cherished by Nigerians going by its quality. 
 
In his remarks, Gov. Kashim Shettima of Borno, said that there was need for the political class to place national interest above other considerations to ensure the country`s development. 
 
The governor, who was the chairman of the occasion, also tasked politicians to work assiduously towards building the country in the interest of all. 
 
He spoke extensively on the Peoples` Democratic Party and President Goodluck Jonathan`s administration, saying that though Jonathan was a “decent person“, he was surrounded by wrong people. 
 
“Sadly, Borno was the epicentre of the crisis that engulfed the Jonathan administration; I think President Jonathan is essentially a decent person, an unsophisticated country politician caught up in the vortex of power politics in Nigeria. 
 
“When the Chibok girls saga started, they made the president to believe that there was no abduction, that the Chibok girls were kidnapped by the governor of Borno,“ he said. 
 
Shettima said that Jonathan believed the story, which was meant to embarrass his administration. 
 
“I was in Chibok, my wife was in Chibok and there was a global outcry on the issue, but Jonathan was in a world of his own created by the clowns and also the misfits around him,’’ he said. 
 
He added that in spite of the situation, Jonathan was an honest man. 
 
READ: ICAO, Air Transport agencies releases new runway safety plan 
 
According to the governor, sheer display of bad governance, lack of political sagacity and will-power squandered the enormous goodwill the Jonathan administration commanded. 
He said that such situation consequently got him voted out of office in 2015. 
 
Shettima disclosed that because of Jonathan`s honesty, “he recently confided in Sen. Ben Bruce that his major undoing was his poor relationship with the Borno governor’’. 
 
He wished Jonathan luck in his retirement, saying “ he can redeem himself by serving God, humanity and Africa“. 
 
The governor insisted that rather than emphasising issues of restructuring the country, efforts should be made to improve governance. 
 
“Let us work for the people, invest in education and create jobs for our people,’’ he said. 
 
On his part, Kwara Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed, said that the book would serve Nigerians and help review the country`s political history. 
He also said that the book would be important to politicians and history students across the country. 
 
Mr Dele Momodu, while presenting the book to the public, said that the intrigues and the behind-the-scenes in the Jonathan`s administration captured in it, were mind-bugling. 
 
He added that the book was bound to stir lots of debate and controversies, saying that it was a painstaking piece that must be read by all. 
 
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the occasion was attended by APC National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun and members of the party’s National Working Committee. 
 
Also in attendance were some ministers, representative of Emir of Ilorin and members of Kwara House of Assembly. 
 
The book chronicled the ascension of Jonathan, the power play, and the intrigues that led to his loss of power in the 2015 presidential election.

Goodluck Was Never Power Hungry – Saraki

President of the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki, said former President Goodluck Jonathan was never desperate for power, but got there by provid...

Why my prophecy on Anambra governorship election failed – Popular Ebonyi prophet

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Why my prophecy on Anambra governorship election failed – Popular Ebonyi prophet

On-Air-Personality Freeze Tackles Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo's Stance On Tithing

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On-Air-Personality Freeze Tackles Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo's Stance On Tithing

Banky W congratulates Davido and Wizkid on Mobo award win, addresses rivalry between both artistes

16:58 Unknown 0

Banky W congratulates Davido and Wizkid on Mobo award win, addresses rivalry between both artistes

2018 World Cup: Rohr blows hot, says Nigeria not afraid of any country

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Coach Gernot Rohr says the Super Eagles have no fear of any team, hours before Friday’s Final Draw for the 21st FIFA World Cup finals. 
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Speaking from the Crowne Plaza World Trade Centre, Moscow on Thursday, Rohr said that there was no weak squad in the 32 countries that qualified for the competition. 
 
Rohr, who is in Russia for the draw, said, “All the teams that are in the Final Draw, except the host nation Russia, played qualifying matches. They all emerged from tough encounters and therefore, none can be tagged ‘weak’. 
 
“In the next 24 hours, we will enter the State Kremlin Palace for the Final Draw and a couple of hours later, everyone will know their opponents. There is no apprehension. If you have to be listed among the best, you have to conquer the better teams and even beat some of the best.” 
 
Nigeria emerged from a qualifying group that included Cameroon, Algeria and Zambia. 
 
Analysis of the teams in the Final Draw revealed that Nigeria used the youngest squad to qualify for the finals. 
 
Rhor said, “Seriously speaking, every team has the right to dream. But we have our heads on our shoulders and our feet on the ground, and whatever draw comes, we will take it one match at a time.” 
 
Friday’s Final Draw at the State Kremlin Palace will start at 6pm Moscow time (4pm Nigeria time). 
 
Russia is the largest country in the world, bounded by 12 seas including the Atlantic, Arctic and Pacific Oceans and its 17.1million square kilometres make it one-eighth of the earth’s inhabited surface area. 
 
The country extends across 11 of the earth’s 24 standard time zones, and its 146 million people make it the 9th most populous nation in the world. The 146 million people represent 140 nationalities, who speak over 100 languages. 
 
(</div>

2018 World Cup: Rohr blows hot, says Nigeria not afraid of any country

Coach Gernot Rohr says the Super Eagles have no fear of any team, hours before Friday’s Final Draw for the 21st FIFA World Cup finals. ...

2018: We will deploy every legitimate power to dislodge Fayose – APC vows

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2018: We will deploy every legitimate power to dislodge Fayose – APC vows

NNPC Selling Fuel At N133.28, Denies Hiking Prices

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, denied hiking the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, also known as petrol, stating that the commodity is currently selling at N133.28 per litre. 
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In a statement by its Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, the NNPC also restated its commitment to ensuring copious supply of petroleum products across the country to aid hitch-free movement of motorists during and beyond the festive season. 
 
The NNPC stated that this assurance and clarification became necessary in light of the threats by the Lagos Chapter of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) to withdraw its services in Lagos and its environs sequel to alleged discrepancies in ex-depot prices, among others. 
 
It disclosed that the rift was actually between IPMAN and depot owners, adding that the appropriate government agencies had been contacted to settle the rift between IPMAN and the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association (DAPPMA). 
 
“The Ejigbo Satellite Depot had consistently dispensed premium motor spirit (petrol) at the approved price of N133.28 per litre, contrary to allegations that it was sold at a higher price,” it explained. 
 
Ughamadu added that the Ejigbo Satellite Depot was fully stocked and carrying out regular loading services. 
 
He also disclosed that there was enough petroleum products in the country to last till the end of the year, adding that 25 vessels laden with petroleum products were also being expected to berth between now and January 2018 to further boost supplies. 
 
The NNPC, therefore, urged members of the public not to entertain any fear or engage in panic buying of petroleum products as there was enough to keep the country well supplied. 
IPMAN, had in Lagos on Wednesday, threatened to withdraw its services from December 11, accusing the NNPC of breach of its bulk purchase agreement to sell fuel to them at N133.28 per litre and over irregular fuel supply at Ejigbo satellite depot. 
 
The association said its members had been running their fuel stations at a loss in the last eight months due to NNPC’s default in the bulk purchase agreement it signed with IPMAN to sell fuel to its members at N133.28 per litre. 
 
It stated that a litre of petrol is being sold to its members DAPPMA at N141, apart from running costs, bank charges and other expenses, adding that this is making it impossible for them to sell at the controlled price of N145, but N146 per litre. 
 
“While the NNPC had refused to sell fuel to its members regularly, the corporation is diverting the supplies to DAPPMA at N117 per litre. DAPMAN in turn is selling to IPMAN members at N141 per litre,” it lamented.</div>

NNPC Selling Fuel At N133.28, Denies Hiking Prices

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, denied hiking the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, also known as petrol, st...

Mainagate: Hold Me Responsible For His Reinstatement - PS Intetior

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Mainagate: Hold Me Responsible For His Reinstatement - PS Intetior

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Mr Abubakar Magaji on Thursday admitted before the Rep Ali Madaki led ad-hoc investigative ...

Buhari travels to Jordan to discuss terrorism

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President Muhammadu Buhari will on Saturday and Sunday join other Heads of State in Aqaba, Jordan, to review strategies in fighting terrorism, and reinforce joint security structures that will be more proactive in preventing attacks. 
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The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday. 
 
Adesina said the meeting tagged, AQABA RETREAT, hosted by King Abdullah II of Jordan, is expected to be attended by West African Heads of State, representatives of governments of 48 countries and a number of key Non-Governmental Organisations. He said Buhari would at the meeting, share Nigeria’s experience on terrorism and its spread across West Africa. 
 
He added that the President will solicit more support for pre-emptive measures that will neutralise the activities of insurgents in the sub-region. 
 
The statement added, “The Nigerian leader will also hold bilateral meetings with some Heads of State to strengthen relations. “President Buhari and his delegation will attend the official dinner to be hosted by King Abdullah II in honour of visiting Heads of State and their delegations. 
 
“The President will be accompanied to Jordan by the governors of Kogi, Osun and Niger States; the Ministers of Defence, Education, Foreign Affairs; the National Security Adviser, and the Acting Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency.”</div>

Buhari travels to Jordan to discuss terrorism

President Muhammadu Buhari will on Saturday and Sunday join other Heads of State in Aqaba, Jordan, to review strategies in fighting terror...

Gov Ayade Presents N1.3trn Budget For 2018

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Gov.Ben Ayade of Cross River has presented a budget of N1.3 trillion for the 2018 fiscal year to the Cross River House of Assembly for deliberation and passage. 
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Ayade, who presented the budget on Thursday in Calabar, said that the proposal was designed to add value to the socio-economic development and well being of the people of the state. 
 
Ayade, who tagged the budget as “Budget of Kinetic Crystallisation’’, said it was meant to crystallise what the state had achieved in the past two years of his administration. 
 
He said that the priority of the budget was to develop the state’s deep sea port and the super highway which he said were his two marked projects. 
 
The governor said that 70 per cent of the budget was for capital expenditure and 30 per cent, recurrent expenditure. 
 
According to him, the size of the budget is expected to create room for potential investors, now that the annual construction of the state deep sea port and superhighway has commenced. 
 
He added that the budget was for actualisation and implementation of the state deep sea port, super highway and other laudable projects earmarked for completion. 
 
“The 2018 budget of N13.trillion, tagged `Kinetic Crystallisations’, is meant to drive the economy of the state to an enviable height. 
 
“The sum of N126billion was budgeted for the Ministry of Infrastructure. This is to help us develop critical assets in the state. 
 
“N7 billion was also budgeted for the state job centre with a view to helping us train our unemployed youths with marketable job skills. 
 
“Also, we have budgeted N2billion for our school feeding programme. In addition to that, we also budgeted N52billion for social welfare to care for the aged. 
 
“My administration is human-friendly and my desire is to ensure that every family has what to eat before going to bed,’’ he said. 
 
The governor further said that the garment factory, with 1,000 workers, would be increased to 3,000 in 2018 as part of his administration’s drive to engage the unemployed in the state. 
 
NAN reports that the 2018 budget is far higher than the 2017 budget of N301billion. 
 
Responding, the Speaker of the Assembly, Mr John Gaul-Lebo, commended the governor for commencing work on the deep sea port and the super highway. 
 
Gaul-Lebo said that the two projects, when completed, would attract more investors to the state and improve its revenue profile. 
 
He assured the governor of the assembly’s continued support for the economic and political growth of the state.</div>

Gov Ayade Presents N1.3trn Budget For 2018

Gov.Ben Ayade of Cross River has presented a budget of N1.3 trillion for the 2018 fiscal year to the Cross River House of Assembly for del...

Ex-VP Sambo Expresses Confidence In Daniel’s Leadership Qualities

15:28 Unknown 0

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Former Vice President, Architect Namadi Sambo, has affirmed his confidence in Otunba Gbenga Daniel’s ability to lead the Peoples Democratic Party to victory in the forthcoming general election as the National Chairman. 
<a name='more' id="more"></a> 
 
Sambo stated this while welcoming Daniel to Kaduna State on Tuesday. 
 
He said: “Your Excellency, my professional and political colleague, you’ve embarked on a serious endeavour and I know you are up to the task. 
 
“You managed your state creditably well and I must thank you for the efforts you’re making to ensure our party return to the right path. 
 
“We must allow democracy to work at all levels because that is the avenue to make the party strong. 
“At the convention, things must be allowed to be free and fair.” 
 
It was a sort of homecoming for Daniel as he, together with the campaign team, was warmly received at the Kaduna State PDP secretariat on Tuesday amid songs and praises. 
 
The visit was in continuation of Daniel’s nationwide campaign ahead of the National Convention of the PDP holding on December 9, 2017. 
 
Visibly excited at the arrival of Daniel and his team, the Kaduna State party Chairman, Hon. Felix Hassan Hyat, declared: “You are not a visitor here. 
 
“I know your relationship with the architect of modern Kaduna and National Caretaker Chairman, His Excellency, Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi. 
 
“By right, you are an elder statesman in Kaduna State. 
“I call your visit a formality. 
 
“You have presented your message in a simple but penetrating way. 
“I cherish the way you have conducted your campaign. 
 
“Only a leader of substance and focus will be able to navigate through the 36 states without attacking other aspirants. 
 
“Your message rings deep down in us. 
 
“Whether South West is qualified or not, we know Gbenga Daniel is most qualified. 
“We will plead with our other brothers so that we can truly return power to the people.” 
 
On hand to receive Daniel’s team were delegates, party leaders and other stakeholders of the party in the State, who listened with rapt attention to the front line politician’s speech, which wowed the audience. 
 
Also caught in the euphoric reception was Alhaji Aliyu Wusolo, the Kaduna State PDP Secretary, who saluted Daniel’s political sagacity and intellectual prowess. 
 
Extolling Daniel’s exemplary virtues, Wusolo said: “This is the first time I’m meeting Gbenga Daniel and he spoke very well. 
 
“In fact, I think I’m going to change my mind about my former decision. 
“We in Kaduna are united in voting for OGD come December 9.” 
 
In response, Otunba Daniel thanked the leadership and Kaduna PDP for the rousing welcoming and the expression of their confidence in him. 
 
He assured them that with their support in his bid for the chairmanship position, victory is beckoning on the party to control power at the centre in the forthcoming general election.</div>

Ex-VP Sambo Expresses Confidence In Daniel’s Leadership Qualities

Former Vice President, Architect Namadi Sambo, has affirmed his confidence in Otunba Gbenga Daniel’s ability to lead the Peoples Democrati...

FG stopped Maina’s salaries February 2013 – Adeosun, AGF insist

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FG stopped Maina’s salaries February 2013 – Adeosun, AGF insist

Magu speaks on EFCC looting properties recovered by ex-Pension boss

15:13 Unknown 0

Magu speaks on EFCC looting properties recovered by ex-Pension boss

Senate postpones MTEF, awaits OPEC’s decision

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Senate postpones MTEF, awaits OPEC’s decision

Libya slave trade: Nigeria must go to war – Fani-Kayode

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Libya slave trade: Nigeria must go to war – Fani-Kayode

More Excuses! DSS DG, Daura explains why ex-Pension Chairman has not been arrested

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More Excuses! DSS DG, Daura explains why ex-Pension Chairman has not been arrested

2018 budget is built on wrong foundation – Senator Barau

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2018 budget is built on wrong foundation – Senator Barau

Nigeria Flies Migrants Home From Libya After Slavery Scare

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Nigeria’s president said on Wednesday the government had started bringing stranded citizens home from Libya after a global outcry over reports that migrants there were being sold into slavery. Muhammadu Buhari’s comments came days after CNN aired footage that appeared to show men being auctioned as farm hands in Libya after being smuggled across the Sahara. 
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Libya’s U.N.-backed government has said it is investigating. 
 
“The situation in Libya, of people being sold into slavery, is appalling and unacceptable. We will do everything to protect our citizens wherever they might be,” Buhari wrote on his Twitter account. 
 
Nigeria had “started bringing back home all Nigerians stranded in Libya and elsewhere,” he added. 
 
The U.N.’s International Organization for Migration said 239 Nigerians flew home from Tripoli on Tuesday. 
 
It has said Nigerian migrants risk exploitation, detention and abuse as they head north to Libya, hoping to cross the Mediterranean to Europe.</div>

Nigeria Flies Migrants Home From Libya After Slavery Scare

Nigeria’s president said on Wednesday the government had started bringing stranded citizens home from Libya after a global outcry over rep...

54 babies born HIV-positive in Nasarawa

14:28 Unknown 0

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The Executive Director of Nasarawa State Aids Control Agency, Dr Zakari Umar, said 54 babies delivered between January and September in the state tested positive to HIV. 
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Umar made this known on Thursday in Lafia in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria. 
 
Umar said out of the 1,194 pregnant women who keyed into the Prevention of Mother- to- Child Transmission HIV programme in 2017, 54 of them transmitted the virus to their babies. 
 
He explained that cases of transmission recorded were due to the lack of adherence to medical advice and refusal to take prescribed drugs. 
 
“Science has proved that it is possible to totally eradicate mother-to-child transmission of HIV if pregnant women living with the virus adhere to medical advice and take their drugs regularly. 
 
“Those women whose babies tested positive must have refused to comply with their drug regimen during pregnancy,” Umar added. 
 
According to him, the case of mother-to-child transmission of HIV in the state has reduced over the years due to sensitisation and other preventive measures taken by stakeholders. 
 
He said available records from 2016 indicated that 66 babies were born with HIV. 
 
Umar attributed reduction in transmission of the disease to babies in 2017 to sensitisation and adoption of the PMTCT programme. 
 
He also advised members of the public to avoid acts that would make them vulnerable to the virus, adding, “The virus is not yet over, hence the need for people to take preventive measures.” 
 
The executive director urged people to get tested to enable them know their status in order to curtail spread of the disease. 
 
He said the state had domesticated the anti stigmatisation law aimed at protecting those living with the virus. 
 
Umar, therefore, advised those being stigmatised on the account of the disease to always seek redress at the appropriate quarter. </div>

54 babies born HIV-positive in Nasarawa

The Executive Director of Nasarawa State Aids Control Agency, Dr Zakari Umar, said 54 babies delivered between January and September in th...

Maina: Drama as HOS, Oyo-Ita, Ministry of Interior disagree over ex-Pension boss’ reinstatement

14:28 Unknown 0

Maina: Drama as HOS, Oyo-Ita, Ministry of Interior disagree over ex-Pension boss’ reinstatement

Report reveals there will be more hunger, extremism in 2018

14:28 Unknown 0

Report reveals there will be more hunger, extremism in 2018

Our record shows Maina has not left Nigeria – NIS boss

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Our record shows Maina has not left Nigeria – NIS boss

Appeal Court finally rules in suit challenging Tambuwal’s emergence

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Appeal Court finally rules in suit challenging Tambuwal’s emergence

Slave trade:Protest holds in front of Libyan Embassy (VIDEO)

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Slave trade:Protest holds in front of Libyan Embassy (VIDEO)

Goodluck Jonathan believed I was responsible for the disappearance of Chibok schoolgirls - Borno state governor

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Goodluck Jonathan believed I was responsible for the disappearance of Chibok schoolgirls - Borno state governor

Emir Sanusi Attributes Quest For Illegal Migration To Poverty, Unemployment

12:53 Unknown 0

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The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, has attributed the excessive quest by Nigerian youths to engage in illegal migration to poverty and unemployment. 
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The Emir made the remark on Thursday in Kano when the President and members of Pan African Institute for Global Affairs and Strategy (PAIGAS) paid him a courtesy visit. 
 
According to him, the hunger to move across the shores of this country in an elusive search for greener pasture abroad can be effectively tackled when viable alternatives are made available to engage youths. 
 
He called on the leadership of the country to rise up to the challenge by creating an enabling environment that would encourage wealth creation and empower the youth population in Nigeria. 
 
The monarch commended PAIGAS for the initiative to partner the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to sensitize corps members against illegal migration. 
 
According to him, as leaders, we must do everything possible to give the youth population in Nigeria a hope of a better future. 
 
Earlier, President of PAIGAS, Amb. Martins Uhomoibhi informed the emir that their visit to Kano was to sensitize corps members on the dangers associated with illegal migration. 
 
According to Uhomoibi, the sensitisation is part of the NGO’s contribution to the development of the society. 
 
“My youth service year experience in Koko; Kebbi, inspired me to rededicate my life to serve Nigeria throughout my life time on earth,” he said. 
 
Uhomoibi described the emir as a unique personality who combined the rare attributes of royalty, tradition and diplomatic experience. 
 
He expressed delight for the honour to visit the emir.</div>

Emir Sanusi Attributes Quest For Illegal Migration To Poverty, Unemployment

The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, has attributed the excessive quest by Nigerian youths to engage in illegal migration to pove...

VIDEO: Libya slave trade: Osinbajo meets with agencies, reveals government’s plans

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VIDEO: Libya slave trade: Osinbajo meets with agencies, reveals government’s plans

Man in court for using N10m mistakenly deposited to his account

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Man in court for using N10m mistakenly deposited to his account

Use your private jets to repatriate migrants – Daddy Freeze tells Nigerian pastors

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Use your private jets to repatriate migrants – Daddy Freeze tells Nigerian pastors

Ministry of Interior denies reinstating Maina

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Ministry of Interior denies reinstating Maina

Christianity in Nigeria a fraud – Gay rights activist, Bisi Alimi

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Christianity in Nigeria a fraud – Gay rights activist, Bisi Alimi

Maina: I did not endorse letter for ex-Pension Chairman’s reinstatement – Head of Service, Oyo-Ita

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Maina: I did not endorse letter for ex-Pension Chairman’s reinstatement – Head of Service, Oyo-Ita

Maina’s Name Not In FG’s Pay Roll – Adeosun

12:13 Unknown 0

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It was a swath of counter-accusations at the continued investigative hearing by the ad-hoc Committee on the Disappearance,re-appearance and reinstatement of embattled former boss of Presidential Task Force on Pension Reform Team Abdulrasheed Maina on Monday. 
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The Finance Minister, Kemi Adeosun told a bewildered Committee members that Maina’s name was not in the FG’s pay roll. 
 
The investigative hearing which started at precisely 10.25am after the opening prayer by the Chairman, Rep Ali Madaki, APC, Kano took a twist when the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior in his submissions declared that he got instructions to reinstate Maina from the Office of the Head of Service to the Federation. 
 
This declaration did not go down well with the HOS, Mrs Winifred Oyo-Ita as she immediately countered his position saying: 
 
“This is not quite correct to put it mildly 
 
At this point, the Chairman ordered that she should be placed on oath. 
 
Also, the Accountant General to the Federation, AGF, Ahmed Idris told the Committee that the last salary Maina earned was in February, 2013. 
 
The minister of finance, Kemi Adeosun also corroborated the position of her AGF, saying: 
 
“Maina is not in FG’s pay roll and his biometric was not even captured. </div>

Maina’s Name Not In FG’s Pay Roll – Adeosun

It was a swath of counter-accusations at the continued investigative hearing by the ad-hoc Committee on the Disappearance,re-appearance an...

Maina Is An American Citizen Too - Immigration Boss

12:03 Unknown 0

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Sacked Chairman of Presidential Task Team on Pension Reforms, Abdulrasheed Maina, Thursday, has been reported to have three international passports and he is an American citizen. 
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Mohammed Babandede, the Nigerian Immigration boss speaking at the ongoing House of Representatives adhoc committee investigating on Maina’s reinstatement into the public service on Thursday said that Maina has 3 Passports, and that he an American citizen too since he has an American passport. 
 
Also the Finance Minister, Kemi Adeosun speaking told the Committee members that Maina’s name was not in the FG’s pay roll. 
 
The investigative hearing which started at precisely 10.25am after the opening prayer by the Chairman, Rep Ali Madaki, APC, Kano took a twist when the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior in his submissions declared that he got instructions to reinstate Maina from the Office of the Head of Service to the Federation. 
 
This declaration did not go down well with the HOS, Mrs Winifred Oyo-Ita as she immediately countered his position saying: 
 
“This is not quite correct to put it mildly 
 
At this point, the Chairman ordered that she should be placed on oath. 
 
Also, the Accountant General to the Federation, AGF, Ahmed Idris told the Committee that the last salary Maina earned was in February, 2013. 
 
The minister of finance, Kemi Adeosun also corroborated the position of her AGF, saying: 
 
“Maina is not in FG’s pay roll and his biometric was not even captured.</div>

Maina Is An American Citizen Too - Immigration Boss

Sacked Chairman of Presidential Task Team on Pension Reforms, Abdulrasheed Maina, Thursday, has been reported to have three international ...

Goodluck Jonathan, Ben Bruce congratulate Wizkid on his Mobo win

11:58 Unknown 0

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Former President Goodluck Jonathan and Senator Ben-Murray Bruce have sent congratulatory messages to  Ayo Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, for winning Best International Act at the MOBO Awards. 
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At the 2017 edition of MOBO Awards, Wizkid beats Jay-Z, Cardi B, Kendrick Lamar and others to clinch the best international artist award at the event on Wednesday. 
 
The two who could not hold back their excitement took to the social media to celebrate Wizkid. 
 
Jonathan wrote, “When Nigeria does well, I cannot help but feel well. My happiness is tied to the happiness of Nigeria and when Nigerians break records and take the name of Nigeria to greater heights it exhilarates me. Thank you Wizkid for raising Nigeria’s flag high for the positive, not the negative. Your emergence as the Best International Act at the #MOBOAwards is a proud moment for Nigeria. And the fact that you emerged over JAY-Z and Drake makes it even more celebratory. WELL DONE. GEJ.” 
 
The common sense senator said, “Dear @wizkidayo, I‘ve been in the entertainment business as an investor since 1980 and one of my proudest moments for Nigerian music is the day you defeated both Jayz and @Drake, two of the biggest stars in the world, to win the Best International Act at the #MOBOAwards well done.” 
 
Davido also went home with the Best African Act at the event which took place at First Direct Arena, Leeds England. 
 
See post below: 
 
Dear @wizkidayo, I‘ve been in the entertainment business as an investor since 1980 and one of my proudest moments for Nigerian music is the day you defeated both Jayz and @Drake, two of the biggest stars in the world, to win the Best international Act at the #MOBOAwards well done 
 
— Ben Murray-Bruce (@benmurraybruce) November 30, 2017</div>

Goodluck Jonathan, Ben Bruce congratulate Wizkid on his Mobo win

Former President Goodluck Jonathan and Senator Ben-Murray Bruce have sent congratulatory messages to Ayo Balogun, popularly known as Wizk...

Finance ministry denies paying Maina salary after disengagement

11:58 Unknown 0

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The Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun, on Thursday said the former Chairman, Pension Reform Task Force, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Maina, did not receive salary from government after his disengagement. 
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Adeosun said this in Abuja when she appeared before members of House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee investigating the disappearance, re-appearance, re-instatement and promotion of Maina. 
 
She said that from the records of the ministry, there was no trace of any payment of salary to Maina after he was disengaged from service in 2013. 
 
“We have looked very well and we have no biometrics of Maina, so there is no way he could have received salaries,” Adeosun said. 
 
In his submission, the Accountant-General of the Federation, Mr Ahmed Idris, said that Maina was last paid salary in February, 2013. 
 
According to Idris, from March, he was removed from the payroll so I don’t know where he was receiving the salary. 
 
“If there was any payment of salary to Maina, there should be payslips and an account the payments were made; so, let whoever made the claim tender them to support the claim,” Idris said. 
 
Counsel to Maina, Mr Muhammadu Kuta, had while before the committee on Nov. 23 claimed that his client received salary up to October, 2017. 
 
According to Kuta, assignments were still being given to him to execute for the Federal Government even as at last month and he was getting his salary. 
 
NAN

Finance ministry denies paying Maina salary after disengagement

The Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun, on Thursday said the former Chairman, Pension Reform Task Force, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Maina, di...

Mourinho won’t ‘park the bus’ against Arsenal – Wenger

10:38 Unknown 0

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Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is not expecting Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho to set his team up defensively when the sides clash on Saturday despite his reputation for “parking the bus” in big matches. 
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United travel to the Emirates Stadium sitting second in the Premier League and on the back of a 4-2 win at Watford in midweek. 
 
But Mourinho has yet to win an away game against a fellow “big six” side since taking charge at Old Trafford, with seven games at Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool and Tottenham yielding just three points and one goal. 
 
That run includes a 2-0 defeat at Arsenal last season as Wenger recorded his first competitive victory over Mourinho at the 16th attempt. 
 
The pair have shared a tumultuous relationship over the years but Wenger does not believe Mourinho, renowned for his defensive tactics in such matches, will only be eyeing a clean sheet in north London this weekend. 
 
Asked whether he expected Mourinho to park the bus with a defensive outlook on Saturday, Wenger replied: “No, I don’t expect anything special. 
 
“I just expect us to be ready to recover now. Man United is a strong team and I expect us just to cope with the problems they will give us. They will attack as well. They will not only defend. 
 
“It is a game between Arsenal and Man United at home. I just want to focus and to prepare well my team, and give my team a good chance to win the game. 
 
“Man United is doing well at the moment, we are doing well at the moment, so it looks to be a promising game.” 
 
Arsenal welcome United having won their previous three Premier League games to move into the Premier League top four. 
 
Victory in the north London derby at home to Tottenham was followed up with a last-gasp win at Burnley before Huddersfield were dispatched 5-0 at the Emirates on Wednesday. 
 
That was a 12th successive home win as Alexandre Lacazette, Alexis Sanchez and Mesut Ozil all got on the scoresheet while Olivier Giroud hit a brace. 
 
It was not all positives for Wenger, however, as Lacazette was substituted at half-time with a groin injury, while Sanchez was also replaced late on after feeling his hamstring. 
 
Wenger expects Sanchez to be fit to face United, but said club-record signing Lacazette will “certainly be out” of the contest. 
 
“Sanchez had a little hamstring problem, that’s why I took him off, but I think he will be all right,” he said. 
 
“Look, we have offensive weapons, you know. We have Danny Welbeck, we have Giroud, we have Jack Wilshere who all came on. They are all offensive players. 
 
“I will see what I do for Saturday but ideally you wanted him (Lacazette) there.”</div>

Mourinho won’t ‘park the bus’ against Arsenal – Wenger

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is not expecting Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho to set his team up defensively when the sides clash on...

US Threatens To ‘Utterly Destroy’ North Korea Regime

10:38 Unknown 0

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The United States warned that North Korea’s leadership will be “utterly destroyed” if war breaks out as it called on countries to cut all diplomatic and trade ties with North Korea — including Chinese oil shipments to Pyongyang. 
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Washington urged tough action at an emergency meeting of the Security Council held Wednesday to respond to North Korea’s launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). 
 
“The dictator of North Korea made a choice yesterday that brings the world closer to war, not farther from it,” US Ambassador Nikki Haley told the council. 
 
“If war comes, make no mistake: The North Korean regime will be utterly destroyed.” 
 
US President Donald Trump derided Kim Jong-Un as a “sick puppy” and threatened “major” new sanctions after Pyongyang tested its third ICBM — which it claimed was capable of striking anywhere in the United States. 
 
The test ended a two-month lull in missile tests that had raised hopes for the opening of diplomatic talks. The North said the weapon could land anywhere in the continental United States — a claim some experts said was feasible. 
 
Kim said the test of the Hwasong-15 weapons system had helped his country achieve the goal of becoming a full nuclear power, sparking global condemnation. 
 
“We call on all nations to cut off all ties with North Korea,” Haley told the council. 
 
She said Trump had called Chinese President Xi Jinping and urged him to “cut off the oil from North Korea”, a move that would deal a crippling blow to North Korea’s economy. 
 
“That would be a pivotal step in the world’s effort to stop this international pariah,” she said, warning that if Beijing does not act, “we can take the oil situation into our own hands.” 
 
The United States earlier pressed for a full oil embargo on North Korea after it tested its most powerful nuclear bomb to date in September, but dropped that demand in negotiations on a sanctions resolution with China. 
 
– ‘The situation will be handled’ – 
The Security Council met at the request of the United States, Japan and South Korea to consider next steps after three rounds of sanctions adopted in the past year failed to push North Korea to change course. 
 
Trump — who had traded barbs with Kim for months — asked Xi to use “all available levers” to press the hermit state. 
 
“Additional major sanctions will be imposed on North Korea today. This situation will be handled!” Trump tweeted. 
 
China’s foreign ministry sidestepped questions about the US call for an oil embargo, with spokesman Geng Shuang telling reporters that Beijing upholds UN resolutions and backs the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. 
 
Beijing has backed a slew of sanctions that include bans on imports of North Korean coal, iron ore and seafood. The UN also barred the hiring of North Korean guest workers and capped exports of refined petroleum products. 
 
But China has refused to turn off its pipeline shipping crude to North Korea. 
 
Beijing fears that taking tougher actions could cause the regime to collapse, triggering a refugee crisis across its border with the North and eliminating a strategic buffer separating China from the US military in South Korea. 
 
China has proposed that the North stop missile and nuclear tests in exchange for a freeze of US military exercises — a suggestion Washington has repeatedly rejected. 
 
– War fears – 
There are also concerns in Seoul — which is within range of Pyongyang’s artillery — that Trump might be considering military action against the North that could trigger a full-scale war. 
 
Last week, Trump announced new US unilateral sanctions on Pyongyang and returned it to a US list of state sponsors of terror. 
 
Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzi urged Washington “to revise its policy of mutual threats and intimidation,” saying it was “essential to take a step back.” 
 
Canada said it would host a meeting of foreign ministers to discuss the North Korean threat.</div>

US Threatens To ‘Utterly Destroy’ North Korea Regime

The United States warned that North Korea’s leadership will be “utterly destroyed” if war breaks out as it called on countries to cut all ...

Appoint Of Justices Of Court Of Appeal: Igbo Group Says NJC Not Telling The Truth

10:33 Unknown 0

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 The Igbo Renaissance has faulted the claim by the Nigeria Judicial Council, NJC, that Ndigbo were not shortchanged in the recent appointm 
<a name='more' id="more"></a>ent of Appeal Court justices, saying that the South East zone was actually sidelined in the process. 
 
Renaissance said that by convention, each of the states in the country were supposed to have three serving justices of the Court of Appeal, adding that while Kwara State for example would have four by the new arrangement, Enugu and Abia States would have two each as no candidate was interviewed from the east by the NJC, despite the shortlisting of qualified candidates from the area. 
 
National Secretary of Igbo Renaissance Group, IRG, Chief Roland Eze, who spoke in an interview with Vanguard in Enugu, debunked the claim by the NJC over its partiality against the South East, insisting that the zone was shortchanged, just as the South West and the North West had more than there fair share in the new appointments. 
 
His words, “The Court of Appeal is statutorily expected to have 90 Justices, out of which no fewer than three must come from each state. However, the available vacancies were 14 as the Court of Appeal had 76 justices instead of 90. Other zones had 15 each except the South East which had 13. 
 
“By the new arrangement arising from the Court of Appeal’s submission to the NJC, the South East was supposed to have had at 14 justices while other zones had 15. 
“However, instead of following the Court of Appeal’s recommendations, the South West and North West got one new Judges each to bring the number of justices in the zones to 16 each, while Kwara State got additional one to make the state have four justices even as Abia and Enugu remained with their two slots each. 
 
“It is difficult to know what magic the NJC used in arriving at this awkward arrangement whereby the South East will have 13 serving justices in the Court of Appeal while all other zones had 15 0r 16. 
 
“It is absurd for the NJC to say that it considered merit and geographical spread in the appointment of judicial officers to the Court of Appeal. Are they saying that we do not have qualified judicial officers to be appointed? 
 
“This is bullshit! Some senior judges from the South East were shortlisted by the Court of Appeal. Why were they even invited for interview? The statistics provided by the NJC were sexed up and we expect that this issue must not be allowed to be swept under the carpet,” Eze said.</div>

Appoint Of Justices Of Court Of Appeal: Igbo Group Says NJC Not Telling The Truth

The Igbo Renaissance has faulted the claim by the Nigeria Judicial Council, NJC, that Ndigbo were not shortchanged in the recent appointm...

Life Outside Nigeria Not Necessarily Better Than Life In Nigeria – Reps

10:33 Unknown 0

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In a bid to halt a brewing crisis in the Niger Delta region arising from an alleged tenure elongation of the current members of the board of Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, the House of Representatives has asked the Federal Government to adhere to the provisions of the Act establishing the body. 
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The House also called on the federal government to liaise with the Libyan government to find solution to the menace of modern day slavery which involved Nigerians in the country. 
 
The resolutions followed two separate motions titled “Violation of the Niger Delta Development Commission Act and its Attendant Consequences”, sponsored by Hon. Daniel Ofongo (Bayelsa) and “Need to Investigate the Inhuman and Barbaric Act of Slave Trade Involving the Auctioning of Black Africans in Libya”, sponsored by Hon. Saheed Akinade-Fijabi (Oyo State). 
 
While moving the motion, the stated that against the practice of rotational chairmanship and the office of the Managing Director of NDDC amongst the relevant States, the former acting Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Dr (Mrs) Habila M. Lawal purportedly granted the Board members fresh tenure of four years. 
 
He said that if the situation was not reversed, it would likely create crisis in the region as there were also agitations by the youths in the region. 
 
He said: “The House notes that the tenure of the Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) was cut short in 2015 following the dissolution of the Board; 
 
“Also notes that the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Engineer Babachir David Lawal issued letters to the current members of the Board that was inaugurated by the present administration requiring them to serve for the unexpired tenure of the Board that was dissolved in 2015; 
 
“Further notes the recent statement by the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation regarding the letters of appointments issued to the Board members by the former acting Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Dr (Mrs) Habila M. Lawal was said to have granted the Board members fresh tenure of four years, rather than them serving out the unexpired tenure of the dissolved Board; 
 
“Equally notes that the pronouncement was in clear violation of section 5 (2) of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Act, 2000 which provides that “where a vacancy occurs in the membership of the Board, it shall be filled by the appointment of a successor to hold office for the remainder of the term of office of his predecessor, so however, that the successor shall represent the same interest and shall be appointed by the President, subject to the confirmation of the Senate, in consultation with the House of representatives; 
 
“Aware that there is a nexus between the violation of the NDDC Act and youth restiveness in the Niger Delta region, which has such grave consequences of impacting adversely on oil production and consequently, the nation’s revenues from the resource; 
 
“Cognizant of the provision of Section 88 (1) (b) (i) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 which empowers the National Assembly, by Resolution, to cause an investigation into the execution or administration of laws enacted by the National Assembly”. 
 
Ruling on the matter after members had given their nod, the presiding officer and deputy speaker, Hon. Yusuf Lasun adhered to the prayers of the motion which included urging the “Federal Executive Arms of Government to adhere strictly to the provisions of the NDDC Act of 2000 with respect to the tenure of the current Board; and mandating the “Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to investigate the matter with a view to ensuring compliance with Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Act, 2000”. 
 
The Committee was given two weeks within which to conclude its assignment and report back to the House for further legislative action. 
 
In a similar note, the House also urged the Federal Government to liaise with the Government of Libya to find a solution to the menace of migration and modern day slavery in Libya. 
 
It also mandated its Committees on Human Rights, and Foreign Affairs to interface with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant stakeholders to identify the factors that encourage migrants to embark on the perilous journey, proffer solutions that would discourage same and provide for how the Nigerian youths caught in the web of legal immigration procedures would return to the country. 
 
Moving the motion, Fijabi said that a certain Nigerian was sold for $400 (₦144,000) to North African buyers as potential farm hands. 
 
The motion which also has a reflection to another one moved by Hon. Omosede Igbinedion noted that Nigerians who migrate abroad in search of greener pastures ended up either dead or permanently injured. 
 
Fajabi said: “The House notes that African migrants from nations including Nigeria, Guinea, Senegal, Mali, Niger and Gambia make the dangerous crossing through the Sahara Desert to Libya with hopes of making it over the Mediterranean Sea to Italy and other European countries in search of greener pastures; 
 
“Also notes that on November 14, 2017, the US Television Network, CNN broke the news of auctioning of human beings in Libya with a live footage of the auctioning process in which young men were being sold to North African buyers as potential farm hands and one of the unidentified young men sold off for as little as $400 (₦144,000) is said to be a Nigerian in his twenties; 
 
“Further notes that the footage of the auctioning of black Africans in the conflict-torn nation sparked outrage across the world with thousands of people taking to the streets of Paris , France to protest against the modern day slavery, and in reaction, the African Union, on November 17, 2017 called on the Libyan Authorities to investigate the matter”. 
 
Contributing to the debate on the motion, some members of the House said that Nigerian government needed to adopt proactive measures to discourage the youth from embarking on needless journeys. 
 
They equally harped on the urgent need to create jobs and the enabling environment for the youths to be gainfully employed at home. 
 
For instance, Hon Nnenna Ukaje (Abia State) advised the youth to stay at home instead of dying abroad. 
 
She said: “We need a lot of information and education to let our children know that life outside Nigeria is not necessary better than life in Nigeria. 
 
“We need to also get the ECOWAS parliament in this.” 
 
Also speaking, Hon. Emma Ogene (Lagos State) said that it was a sad moment for the country. 
 
He however said that the unhealthy development was a wake up call for all levels of government to create jobs for the teeming unemployed youths. 
 
“This is a very sad event. We should be ashamed of ourselves. We need to find out if parent are involved in the matter 
 
“We need to call the Libaya Ambassador in Nigeria and ask him why they are selling our people. 
 
“The solutions lies in the various levels of government in providing employment to our youths”. 
 
Also contributing, Hon. Henry Ofongo (Bayelsa State) emphasized the need for enlightenment of the youth on the adventures. 
 
“Some of them feel that Nigeria is too hard, too tough. What is the going doing about enlightenment?”, he said. 
 
On his part, the Leader of the House, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila advised Nigerian parents against subjecting their house helps to inhuman treatments, saying it was also slavery. 
 
“We are practicing the slavery here on our soil”, he said. 
 
The committees on Human Rights, and Foreign Affairs were also given 4 weeks within which to work and report back to the House for further legislative action.</div>

Life Outside Nigeria Not Necessarily Better Than Life In Nigeria – Reps

In a bid to halt a brewing crisis in the Niger Delta region arising from an alleged tenure elongation of the current members of the board ...

Save Nigerians from Libyan slave traders, Senate tells Buhari

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President Muhammadu Buhari has said the Federal Government was hoping to evacuate identified stranded Nigerians in Libya back to Nigeria and rehabilitate them. 
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This came on the heels of reports that hundreds of African refugees and migrants passing through Libya were being bought and sold into slavery. 
 
Meanwhile, no fewer than 11,600 migrants of Nigeria origin are facing repatriation from different parts of the world, Hajia Sadia Umar Faruk, Chief Executive Officer of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, has said. 
 
Speaking while interacting with the Nigerian community in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, on Tuesday night, Buhari, who is in Abidjan for the 5th European Union-African Union (EU-AU) Summit, said those still there would be evacuated. 
 
He assured Nigerians that his administration would do everything humanly possible to make the country conducive to discourage youths from embarking on the journey and risking their lives. 
 
To make the country conducive, President Buhari promised that fixing security as well as providing other critical infrastructure would also reduce the chances of people taking the risk and ending up in the Mediterranean Sea, adding that efforts had been made in that direction which had started yielding positive results in agriculture. 
 
He said: “Whenever Nigerians are identified, especially in Libya and so on, we hope to evacuate them back home and then rehabilitate them because the indoctrination is what is happening with the Boko Haram where girls, mainly from the ages of 15 downwards, will strap themselves and go to the market, blow themselves up and anybody around in motor parks, mosques, churches and so on. 
 
“I am telling you all these because I know that those of you who are making it here I’m sure send contributions home for feeding and for school fees and healthcare. 
 
“These are the basic things that the government should do and we are to make sure that the people challenging the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean to perish will be less of Nigerians. 
 
‘’It was announced that 26 Nigerians died but before they could prove that they were all Nigerians, they were buried. But the evidence I got from the Senior Special Assistant on Diaspora Affairs now is that only three were identified as Nigerians. 
 
“But I won’t be surprised if majority of them were really Nigerians. And for people to cross the Sahara Desert to go into shanty boats across the Mediterranean Sea, I think we will try and keep them at home. 
 
“But for anyone who dared the desert and the Mediterranean without documents to prove that he/she is a Nigerian, there is nothing we can do, absolutely nothing. 
 
“In the interview some of you saw, some of the Nigerians said they were being sold like goats for a few dollars for years in Libya. Now after 43 years of Gaddafi where he recruited so many people from the Sahel, including Nigeria and so on, all they learned was how to shoot and kill. 
 
“They didn’t learn to become electricians, plumbers or any other trade. So, when the Libyans stood against their leader, those who are not their people, they chased out. 
 
"A lot of them came back home with their workers, some of them became part of Boko Haram. 
 
“So, I’m telling you that our major problem as we have identified, is still the security of the country. We have done much better, everybody is saying it. And then we are talking very regularly with the Niger Delta and the leadership because they know they are holding the throat of the country economically.” 
 
Buhari, who stressed the need for Nigerians in Côte d’Ivoire to be good ambassadors by obeying the law of their host country, urged them to also report those portraying the image of the country in bad light to the embassy so that the bad eggs will be flushed out. 
 
He said:  “For you to be good ambassadors of our dear country, it is to live by the law of the country and as much as possible, the bad eggs here among you, you should report quietly to the embassy so that we can get them and repatriate them home as the ambassador has said. 
 
“We, being the biggest country in Africa, at least 180 million people, the requirement for infrastructure is especially education because if you educate people, they can look after themselves and then, of course, healthcare. 
 
“But I’m telling you there is a lot of work to be done back home. We are doing our best and the leadership at all levels are doing their best and the problem we are having is with those being indoctrinated and are hurting our people, blowing up people in mosques, churches, marketplaces, motor parks, which is absolute madness. 
 
“No religion advocates violence; all religions advocate justice from your home, town, household to whatever you become, Justice is the basic thing all religion demand.’’ 
 
Also speaking, the Nigerian Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Ibrahim Isah, noted that the largest number of Nigerians in Sub-Sahara Africa, second only to Sudan, were in Côte d’Ivoire, adding that they were as many as 1.5 million. 
 
Ambassador  Isah, who is just about three months old in his post, said the greatest challenge facing the embassy was the issue of child trafficking and prostitution, disclosing that 50 persons had been repatriated since he resumed. 
 
He said:  “We are facing the challenge of child trafficking and prostitution. Over 50 persons have been repatriated since I came three months ago. We put them across to Lagos through the Young Shall Grow Motors and give them stipends. 
 
“We have succeeded in getting three traffickers jailed here in Côte d’Ivoire but we need National Agency for the Prohibition Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP, and the Nigerian Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, to continue doing what they are doing until we stop this illicit trade.” 
 
On her part, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Diaspora and Foreign Affairs,  Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said a total of 5,000 Nigerians stranded in Libya had been brought back to the country under the present administration. 
 
She regretted, however, that some of them have sadly found their way back, despite warnings, expressing hope that with President Buhari’s directive on massive evacuation, all of them would be back to Nigeria. 
 
Meanwhile, the Senate, yesterday, charged the Federal Government to save Nigerians from slave auctions in Libya. 
 
Senate President, Bukola Saraki, described the Libya slave trade reports as a slap in the face of Nigerians. 
 
Saraki said this after Kaka Baba Bashir (Borno Central), had sponsored a motion on the urgent need to protect Nigerian citizens from being sold into slavery. 
 
The Senate President wondered why the country had not done anything about the situation. 
 
He said:  “Libya slave trade is a slap on us all if a state like Cote D’Ivoire is taking step to address this act while we have not done so.’’ 
 
While moving the motion, Bashir had described the slave trade as a “sickening crime against humanity,” wondering why Nigeria was “indifferent”, despite being one of the most affected countries. 
 
He said:  “This is a humiliation not just to Nigeria and Africa as a whole but also to human civilization and the fundamental principles of human rights under the United Nations Charter. 
 
“Libyan government does not have the means nor the commitment to crack down on the perpetrators as their hands are full, hence these smuggling networks are killing, torturing, extorting and detaining migrants at will. 
 
“Other African countries such as Ivory Coast, have taken active steps to protect their people from these despicable acts and bring them back to their home country.”</div>

Save Nigerians from Libyan slave traders, Senate tells Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari has said the Federal Government was hoping to evacuate identified stranded Nigerians in Libya back to Nigeria a...

Togo’s political instability may affect Nigeria, others -Buhari

10:28 Unknown 0

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President Muhammadu Buhari and his Ivorian counterpart, Alassane Ouattara, on Wednesday expressed concern that political instability in Togo, if not averted, could have regional consequences. 
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According to a statement on Thursday by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, both leaders expressed the view during a bilateral meeting in Abidjan on the margins of the 5th AU-EU Summit. 
 
“We must have a solution in Togo. The friends of the opposition and authorities must talk to them on the steps to jointly take to achieve stability. They must work towards gaining the trust of each other. 
 
‘‘There will be regional consequences for instability in Togo and this will surely come at a cost to development,’’ Buhari was quoted as saying. 
 
The President also had a separate bilateral meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel where the issue of stemming the tide of illegal migration of Nigerians to Europe took the front burner. 
 
The two leaders agreed to strengthen legal migration and made a commitment to expand discussions on how to stem the tide of illegal migration. 
 
On security, Buhari told the German Chancellor that his government’s commitment to the security of lives and property in Nigeria remains absolute. 
 
Reaffirming the nexus between security and job creation in Nigeria, President Buhari said prompt attention is being given to the gainful employment of youths in Nigeria through education and the acquisition of skills and vocational training. 
 
He said Nigeria and Germany can draw from the experiences to cooperate effectively in the area of investing in youths for a sustainable future. 
 
In her remarks, the German Chancellor appreciated the strides made by the Buhari administration in revamping the economy and promised to increase support for Nigeria in dealing with terrorism. 
 
Merkel said 58 German companies are operating in Nigeria, adding that more companies have indicated interest to invest in the energy, manufacturing, agriculture and construction sectors. 
 
Buhari also had fruitful bilateral discussions with Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo and the Vice President of the Gambia Fatoumata Tambajang.</div>

Togo’s political instability may affect Nigeria, others -Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari and his Ivorian counterpart, Alassane Ouattara, on Wednesday expressed concern that political instability in To...

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Ibrahimovic reason Lukaku is struggling to score goals – Ferdinand

09:03 Unknown 0

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Former Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand says striker, Romelu Lukaku is struggling to score goals because of the pressure of competing with team-mate, Zlatan Ibrahimovic. 
 
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Ferdinand has backed Lukaku to rediscover his goal-scoring form, but insisted the Belgium international must first learn to live with the pressure of competing for a spot with Ibrahimovic. 
 
“He’ll come out of this. I think that maybe the bigger problem for him is Zlatan Ibrahimovic being there. 
 
“Mentally, having a big striker behind you who wants to play, that’s a pressure from within, and sometimes people find that hard to deal with,” Ferdinand told BT Sport. 
 
Lukaku started his United career with 11 goals in his first 10 games following a £75 million move from Everton last summer. 
 
The 24-year-old has scored just once in his last 11 appearances and missed a golden chance during the second half of the 4-2 win over Watford on Tuesday night. 
 
Ibrahimovic returned from a seven-month layoff earlier this month and has made four substitute appearances as he works his way back to full fitness.</div>

Ibrahimovic reason Lukaku is struggling to score goals – Ferdinand

Former Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand says striker, Romelu Lukaku is struggling to score goals because of the pressure of compe...

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Libya slave trade: ECOWAS reacts

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How We Can Work With Tinubu — Afenifere

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The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere has said that its rapprochement with a leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Aswiaju Bola Tinubu, would be structured on an irreducible minimum that he would adopt the call for restructuring as adopted by the body. 
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Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr Yinka Odumakin, in an interview with Vanguard, affirmed that Tinubu was not a stranger to Afenifere saying that he only departed at a time. 
 
Odumakin spoke against the background of the celebrated rapprochement between Tinubu and the body last Wednesday when he paid a courtesy call on Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti. 
 
Tinubu parted ways with Afenifere shortly before the 2003 general elections partly because of his refusal to go with the group’s decision to back a pact to return President Olusegun Obasanjo to power in that year’s election. The breach subsequently extended to the formation of the Afenifere Renewal Group, supposedly backed by Tinubu which constituted itself as a rival to Afenifere. 
 
Responding to the development in an interview, Odumakin said: “It was a courtesy call, he (Tinubu) is not a stranger to Afenifere, Afenifere made him governor in 1999, so he is a member to the family. He moved at a time, and we hope that the visit will bring a better understanding in terms of the irreducible minimums of areas of cooperation in the interest of the Yoruba outside of party politics. 
 
“So, even if there are disagreements, you must not hire small children to abuse your fathers.”</div>

How We Can Work With Tinubu — Afenifere

The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere has said that its rapprochement with a leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC...