All Posts in "Month: August 2024"

Nigeria Hires Eguavon As New Super Eagles Head Coach

Babatunde Solanke

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced that Augustine Eguavoen, a former player and Technical Director of the Super Eagles, will step in as the head coach for the team’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

This decision follows the sudden
withdrawal from the role by the German coach Bruno LabBadia over unresolved issues with German tax laws.

The NFF disclosed late Friday in a statement on X that these tax concerns were the main obstacle to finalizing the agreement.

NFF President Ibrahim Gusau explained, “We have been on the tax issue for the past three days, and I told him clearly that there was no way the NFF will agree to offset the concomitant tax percentage on his salary that will be demanded by German tax authorities. It is not possible for us to shoulder the responsibility of shelling out another money, between 32% to 40% of his salary, after paying the agreed monthly wage.

“The NFF and Mr. Labbadia reached an agreement in principle before we made the announcement that he would become the Head Coach of the Super Eagles. The tax details were never part of our discussions, and he had personally agreed to all terms before the tax issue came up. We were doing our best to be flexible in the discussions but he was adamant that the NFF had to pay the full tax amount as well. We simply cannot do that.”

admin by — August 31, 2024 in Sports 0
NFF Terminates Appointment Of New Super Eagles Coach,Labbadia

Babatunde Solanke

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF),has withdrawn the appointment of Bruno Labbadia as the country’s coach after contract talks broke down.

His appointment is no longer tenable, the NFF said in a statement.

President of the football body,Ibrahim Gusau said “stringent” tax laws in Germany have made it impossible to go ahead with Labbadia’s appointment.

“We have been on the tax issue for the past three days, and I told him clearly that there was no way the NFF will agree to offset the concomitant tax percentage on his salary that will be demanded by German tax authorities,” NFF president Ibrahim Gusau explained in an official statement.

“It is not possible for us to shoulder the responsibility of shelling out another money, between 32% to 40% of his salary, after paying the agreed monthly wage.

“The NFF and Mr. Labbadia reached an agreement in principle before we made the announcement that he would become the head coach of the Super Eagles.

“The tax details were never part of our discussions, and he had personally agreed to all terms before the tax issue came up.

“We were doing our best to be flexible in the discussions but he was adamant that the NFF had to pay the full tax amount as well. We simply cannot do that.”

admin by — August 31, 2024 in Sports 0
Olubadan Promotes Six Obas In Balogun Royal Line

Mohammed Shosanya

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin Ige 1 has promoted six including Obas and High Chiefs in the Balogun royal line following vacancies created by his ascension to the throne and the joining of the ancestors of Oba Lateef Adebimpe, the late Osi Balogun of Ibadan Land.

He performed the promotion exercise at his palace located at Oke Aremo in Ibadan North Local Government area on Friday.

At the ceremony, elevating the Obas and High Chiefs, traditional chieftaincy rites were performed by the Oluwo of Ibadanland, Chief Wahab Popoola Labosinde who decorated them with the traditional Akoko leaves.

Those elevated include; Oba Tajudeen Abimbola Ajibola who was elevated from Otun Balogun to Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Kolawole Adegbola, promoted from Asipa Balogun to Otun Balogun of Ibadanland and Oba John Olubunmi Isioye-Dada who moved from Ekerin Balogun to Osi Balogun of Ibadanland.

Others are; Oba Dauda Abiodun Azeez (absent but represented) who rose from Ekarun Balogun to Asipa Balogun of Ibadanland, Senior Chief Akeem Bolaji Adewoyin who climbed the ladder from Abese Balogun to Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland and Senior Chief (Senator) Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli who advanced from Maye Balogun to Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland.

Oba Olakulehin Ige 1, congratulated the new chiefs on their elevation and charged them to use their new positions for the progress of Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria at large. The monarch urged them to dedicate their lives to the service of humanity emphasising the need for selflessness in their endeavours in these new positions.

The event was witnessed by members of the Olubadan – in – Council among whom were the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole-Foko, Asipa Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi, Ekaarun Olubadan, Oba Adebayo Akande and Ekerin Olubadan, Oba Amidu Ajibade. Others include family heads, traditional chiefs, political office holders, business tycoons, religious leaders, market men and women.

admin by — August 31, 2024 in News 0
Why I Returned Lost $10,000-Airport Worker

A worker of a handling company at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano, Auwalu Ahmed Dankade, who returned $10,000 he found while cleaning an aircraft, has said that his motivation is to please Allah.

He found the money on Wednesday afternoon in an Egyptian aircraft, and Dankade immediately reported the discovery to his company manager, leading to the identification and return of the money to its owner.

Dankade said: “I have been trained not to take what does not belong to me. Anything you take unlawfully, you will be held accountable for in the hereafter.

“My parents taught us to be content with whatever we have, and this upbringing made it easy for me to return the money.”

admin by — August 31, 2024 in News 0
NNPC Commences Search For Private Firms To Operate,Maintain Warri, Kaduna Refineries

Mohammed Shosanya

The Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPC Ltd, is set to ensure sustained production and enhance refining quality at its Warri and Kaduna plants.

The company will also be adopting new maintenance and compliance measures, as well as deploying cutting-edge technology solutions.

According to the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, CCCO, of NNPC Ltd, Olufemi Soneye,these are just a few among the sustainable and profit-driven measures being engaged by the firm.

He said,the company is seeking a short and long term Operations and Maintenance (O&M) services contract for the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC) and Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC).

The scope of work for the O&M “shall cover, but will not be limited to,long-term and short-term production/operations planning,production and operations execution,monitoring, reporting, and optimization of operations,maintenance planning (short term),maintenance execution,reliability and inspection,process and control engineering and quality control,quality assurance, and laboratory

It will also entail,specialist engineering,health and safety,environmental management,turnaround maintenance planning and execution,minor projects,non-hydrocarbon procurement,sub-contractor management and nventory and warehouse management.

On the key objectives of the O&M services for WRPC and KRPC, Soneye said: “One of the objectives is to ensure and guarantee steady and sustained refining production while adhering to the best maintenance and regulatory compliance ethics at the minimum cost of refining and production per barrels.”

On the tender procedure for the O&M services and how it will be conducted, the spokesman disclosed that “there will be a three (3) stage tender process viz:
– Expression of Interest
– Technical and
– Commercial.”

He also disclosed that the O&M is expected “to improve on our refining process that guarantees quality through the application of the latest technology including Computerized Maintenance Management Software (CMMS), Warehousing Management System (WMS).”

He said the specific activities included under the production and operations execution within the O&M contract “consists of the Scope of O&M Services covering all refining areas within the plans including reined products from different slats covering: MIXED LPG, PMS, HHK, ATK, AGO & LPFO.”

admin by — August 31, 2024 in Oil&Gas 0
Police Issue Fresh Summon To NLC President,Ajaero

Mohammed Shosanya

The Nigeria Police Force has issued fresh summon to the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero.

His Secretary General of the union, Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja,was also invited for questioning over alleged “criminal intimidation, malicious damage to properties and conducts likely to cause breach of public peace”.

The police invitation emanated from the Office of the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force intelligence Department (FID), Abuja dated August 28, 2024, and signed by the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibitoye Rufus Alajide.

It was addressed to Ajaero, and claimed that Ajaero’s name appeared in the investigations the police are conducting into the alleged case of criminal intimidation, conduct likely to cause breach of public peace and malicious damage to properties.

It reads:“In furtherance of investigations into the alleged case of Criminal Intimidation, Conducts Likely to Cause Breach of Public Peace and Malicious Damage to Properties in which your name featured.

“You are requested to come along with Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja or an interview with the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force intelligence Department (FID) through the undersigned, at SPO’s Room 12, 2nd Floor, Force Intelligence Department (FID) Complex, Shehu hagari way, opposite Force Headquarters Area 11, Garki, Abuja on Thursday, 5th September, 2024 at 11am.

“On arrival, you may wish to call Mr. Usman on GSM number 08039659139.“Your cooperation in this regard is highly solicited, please.”

admin by — August 31, 2024 in News 0
Navy Seeks Special Court For Maritime Crimes

Mohammed Shosanya

Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla,has called for the establishment of special courts dedicated to maritime crimes to ensure effective and efficient justice delivery in the country.

He said,doing so will result in better outcomes for law enforcement, improve data collection and analysis which are crucial for policy and legislative formulation in combating maritime crimes, for the development of the blue economy.

He stated this on Friday while presenting the 3rd Distinguished personality lecture at Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies (IPSS), University of Ibadan on the lecture “Role of the Nigerian Navy in Combatting Maritime Crimes for enhanced Blue Economy in Nigeria”

He lamented that limited community support makes maritime criminals emboldened, knowing that they may not be reported or caught in Nigeria.

He noted that the evolving “dynamics of maritime crimes could negatively affect the prospects, hence the need for pragmatic solutions to address the threats”

Listing non-diligent prosecution of maritime crimes as one of the challenges facing the navy in combating maritime crimes, Vice Admiral Ogalla stated that “the Nigerian Navy and other law enforcement agencies have made commendable efforts in arrest and prosecution of maritime offenders.

“However, inadequacies such as prolonged trial periods are being exploited by criminals. This has led to protracted litigation and several abandoned vessels across Nigerian Navy Bases. Between 2015 to date, 250 vessels arrested were handed over to prosecuting agencies, yet only 82 have been successfully prosecuted, leaving a balance of 168 still in Nigerian Navy custody In the last six years.

“The Nigerian Navy has lost a significant number of cases for non-diligent prosecution of maritime suspects by these prosecuting agencies. Likewise, over N450 million for legal services are provided for these private lawyers at the expense of essential infrastructure for the service to combat the maritime crimes.

“These waterways provide vital access to 28 of Nigeria’s 36 states and connect 6 neighbouring countries. Nigeria’s maritime domain also has the most fertile hydrocarbon provinces in the world, underscoring its strategic importance”.

In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan Professor Kayode Adebowale represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Administration, Professor Peter Olapegba,stated that “a secure maritime domain is essential for the protection of our territorial integrity, the safeguarding of our economic interests, and the well-being of the millions of Nigerians who depend on the sea for their livelihoods.

“As strategic hub for knowledge creation and re-creation in cognate areas of peace, security and humanitarian studies, we are particularly concerned about the rise in maritime threats, including, oil theft, illegal fishing, trafficking of drugs and weapons and piracy in particular. These illicit activities not only undermine our national security but also command potential to stifle economic growth and development along our coasts”

The Director, Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies, Professor Ruth Adio-Moses,maintained that the significance of “maritime security cannot be overstated, especially for a nation like ours blessed with a vast coastline and abundant maritime resources adding that the Chief of the Naval Staff was invited as part of the ongoing town-gown synergy towards proffering solutions to the myriads of problems facing the maritime space.”

admin by — August 31, 2024 in Business 0
Group Seeks Probe Of Staff Recruitment, Salary Payment In Ajaokuta Steel

Mohammed Shosanya

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation,Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide,has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission(EFCC), and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission(ICPC),to initiate a probe of the recruitment process and salary payment in the Ajaokuta Steel Company.

A statement on Friday issued by the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike,also implored the anti-graft commission to demand appointment letters of staff members and juxtapose it with their monthly earnings as would be shown in their respective statements of accounts.

The umbrella body of Igbo youth organisation alleged that it uncoveredl salary fraud in the Ajaokuta Steel Company,adding that the latest discovery was one of the many alleged heists going on in the company.

The statement disclosed that a preliminary investigation carried out showed that there was a high level corruption within the company’s staff recruitment process.

It added:“In our continuous drive to expose the economic sabotage and high level corruption in the Ajaokuta Steel Company, we beamed a searchlight on the company’s employment process.

“To our greatest chagrin, findings showed that staff members are not paid the same amount as outlined in their appointment letters. One of such irregularities is the case of one of the staff members who was recruited as “Graduate Manpower”, and placed under N100,000 (One hundred thousand Naira) monthly salary.

“However, shockingly, the staff member receives N18,000 (Eighteen thousand Naira) as monthly salary, leaving a deficit of N82,000 (Eighty two thousand Naira).

“Another heartbreaking case is that of another staff member, who was also recruited as ‘Graduate Manpower’, with the proviso that he had been placed on GL 8/4 basis salary.

“The staff had also been receiving N18,000 as monthly salary.

“This is just a tip of what the anomalies going on at the Ajaokuta Steel Company, and to worsen matters, instead of engaging staff directly, the appointment states that “we are pleased to inform you that you have been engaged as Graduate Manpower under M/s Hamdan International Limited, with contract order (Number withheld) with Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited.

“Why should a third party be involved in the employment and salary payment of staff working in Ajaokuta Steel Company?

“We ask again- who are those taking undue advantage of hapless Nigerians? Who are those perpetuating this fraud against humanity?”

The group expressed its commitment to the realisation of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda “and would not stand by and watch anyone jeopardise the interest of the youth population.

It said:“The youths are most affected whenever it comes to issues of employment and this is why we won’t rest until all those behind these acts are brought to book”.

The group also demanded disclosure of the partnership agreement of the company with the consortia.

It added:”Nigerians are fed up with shaddy agreements like that of Mambilla Hydropower, which was trapped by mischievous consortium partners. Nigerians deserve to know what is being signed.

“The Agreement on Ajaokuta Steel Company should be between the Federal Government and the consortium. No more middlemen in the process of the agreement.”

admin by — August 31, 2024 in News 0
Access Holdings Donates To Bethesda Child Support Agency

Mohammed Shosanya

Access Holdings Plc has donated buses to Bethesda Child Support Agency,in order to empower vulnerable children through education. As part of its longstanding partnership with Bethesda Child Support Agency,

The Human Resources and Executive Office team of Access Holdings Plc,acquired and formally handed over two coaster buses to the organisation during a ceremony held recently at Access Towers in Victoria Island, Lagos, a statement said.

This donation marks an important moment in Access Holdings’ mission to provide quality education to 1,000 underprivileged children across Nigeria—a mission that has been at the heart of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts for over a decade.

According to the statement,the new buses are set to play a crucial role in Bethesda’s operations, enabling the safe and efficient transportation of children to and from school, thus removing one of the significant barriers to education for these young minds.

The team of about 20 employees has in the last couple of years channelled resources generated mainly from personal funds under its CSR program to support Bethesda’s comprehensive services, which include education, healthcare, and essential support for underserved children.

This partnership,the statement said,exemplifies how individuals, groups and corporate initiatives can extend beyond philanthropy, directly impacting lives and fostering community development.

Speaking at the handover event, Victor Willie, Head of Government & Stakeholder Relations at Access Holdings PLC, emphasised the transformative potential of this partnership: “This collaboration with Bethesda is more than just a philanthropic gesture; it’s about creating tangible opportunities and breaking the cycle of poverty for vulnerable children. The buses we’ve donated will help Bethesda reach more children, ensuring they have access to the education that is fundamental to their growth and the future of our nation.”

With millions of Nigerian children still out of school, Access Holdings’ initiatives address a critical need by eliminating obstacles to education. For many of these children, gaining access to education is not merely about learning; it represents a lifeline that can protect them from exploitation and abuse while offering a pathway out of poverty.

By addressing transportation challenges, Access Holdings is actively contributing to the creation of a brighter, more equitable future for these children and their communities.

Pastor (Mrs.) Nkoyo Rapu, founder of Bethesda Child Support Agency, expressed deep gratitude during the event, noting the profound impact of Access Holdings’ continued support:

She said:“Access Holdings has been a dedicated partner in our mission for over ten years. This latest donation of buses will change the lives of countless children who otherwise would have had no access to education. Their support underscores the power of collective responsibility and demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations truly commit to community upliftment. Together, we are unlocking doors of opportunity for those who need it most.”

Access Holdings remains steadfast in its dedication to driving initiatives focused on education, human capital development, and community empowerment.

Through enduring partnerships and impactful programs, the organisation continues to work towards building a more just and inclusive society, where every child has the opportunity to realise their full potential.

This partnership with Bethesda Child Support Agency highlights Access Holdings’ belief in the fundamental importance of education as a cornerstone for capacity building, nation-building, and sustainable community development.

admin by — August 31, 2024 in Banking&Finance 0
FG Moves To Revitalise 1,091 Tourist Sites

Mohammed Shosanya

The Federal Government,says 1,091 tourist sites in the country are currently undergoing revitalisation in line with its Renewed Hope Agenda for Nigerians.

Ms. Lola Ade -John, Minister of Tourism,stated this at a pre-summit webinar in preparation for the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES#30), organised by the Tourism and Hospitality Industries Thematic Group (THITG) of the Tourism, Hospitality, Entertainment, Creatives, Culture, and Sports Industries Policy Commission (THECCSPC) of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG).

She emphasized the import of domestic tourism to Nigeria’s future.

She noted that these notable sites include Obudu, Ogbunike, Osun-Osogbo Grove, Kajuru Castle, and Yankari Games Reserve, which are improving in terms of historic architecture, wildlife conservation, and ecotourism efforts.

She said that the shifting of attention by the Federal Government to domestic tourism, would provide significant job opportunities for rural communities.

According to her, in 2022, the tourism sector contributed 17.3 billion Naira to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product(GDP), compared to 7.5% of GDP in France.

She further stated that Nigeria also hosts 814 festivals across 774 locations, offering rich cultural experiences.

She underscored the need for investment in domestic tourism to revitalise communities, spur entrepreneurship, and generate revenue, noting that the sector currently supports 1.9 million jobs but has significant growth potential.

Speaking,Mr. Udeme Ufot, Co-Chair of THECCSPC of NESG, emphasised that several factors have led Nigerians to favour domestic travel over international options since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ufot noted that safety and familiarity are key, as domestic destinations are perceived as safer due to better knowledge of local health and safety protocols.

He stated that reduced international mobility due to travel restrictions and global conflicts have made local destinations more accessible and convenient, noting that economic considerations also play a role; including the pandemic and political instability which have affected livelihoods, making domestic travel a more affordable option.

Ufot expressed optimism that the event would generate actionable recommendations to foster inclusive growth, potentially altering trade patterns, attracting investment and enhancing border stability across the continent.

At the panelists session, Mr. Folorunsho Coker, Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), spoke on the importance of public-private partnerships (PPP), community involvement, and sustainable funding models for promoting domestic tourism.

He noted that domestic tourism is six times the size of international tourism and is essential for addressing employment issues.

Mr. Obi Asika, Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), discussed the role of media, arts, and culture in developing domestic tourism.

He highlighted the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors to bridge capacity gaps and the importance of story-telling in attracting tourists.

Ms. Sade Hughes, Managing Director of MIXTA Hospitality Limited, emphasised the impact of innovative real estate and distinctive tourism experiences in revitalising domestic tourism.

She emphasized the need for government investment in infrastructure and urged Nigerians to support local brands.

Ms. Bolaji Mustapha, President of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), stressed the need for government support in policy and infrastructure to develop Nigeria’s tourism sector.

Ms. Adenike Macaulay, Chief Executive Officer of Wakanow, pointed out that the interconnection between music, art, and tourism and the importance of clearly defining tourism attractions to stimulate the economy.

Ms. Omoyemi Akerele, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Lagos Fashion Week and Style House Files, shared how they have redefined Nigeria’s tourism through fashion and enhanced Lagos nightlife, using fashion week as a tool for ecotourism.

admin by — August 31, 2024 in Business 0