Big Shake Up in Nigerian Air Force, 41 Senior Officers Redeployed

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced a major shake up in its hierachy of leadership with the redeployment of 41 Senior Officers, mostly of the ranks of Air Commodores and Air Vice Marshals.

The shake up affected 19 Air Vice Marshals, 14 Air Commodores, four Group Captains, two Wing Commanders, and two Squadron Leaders.

According to the Director of Public Relations and Information of the NAF, Air Vice Marshal Olatokunbo Adesanya, the redeployment is with effect from January 2, 2018.

In a statement issued in Abuja, AVM Adesanya described the redeployment as routine and in line with the recent promotions in the Service.

He said the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, had also directed that newly appointed Commanders of NAF field units and other commanders should attend a workshop slated for Abuja on January 3, 2018 as their new postings go with lots of responsibilities.

The statement read: “The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the postings and redeployment of a total of 41 senior officers comprising 19 Air Vice Marshals (AVMs), 14 Air Commodores (Air Cdre), 4 Group Captains (Gp Capt), 2 Wing Commanders (Wg Cdr) and 2 Squadron Leaders (Sqn Ldr). The postings and redeployment came as a result of the recent promotion of senior NAF officers to the next higher ranks. Though a routine exercise, the posting exercise is aimed at ensuring that the NAF is effectively manned for operational efficiency and effectiveness.

“Prominent among those affected by the new postings are: AVM Lawal Alao who is now the Commandant of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji and AVM Olusoji Awomodu, who has been appointed as the Director Manning & Establishments at the Defence Headquarters. In addition, AVM Bello Garba has been redeployed as the Chief of Logistics at Headquarters NAF (HQ NAF) and AVM Mahmoud Ahmed has taken over as Chief of Administration, also at HQ NAF.

“Other appointments include those of AVM Mohammed Suleiman as the Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) at Headquarters Tactical Air Command, Makurdi, AVM Samuel Babalola as the Director of Personnel Management at HQ NAF, AVM Tunde Awoyoola as Deputy Chief of Defence Space Agency and AVM Haruna Mohammed as Commandant Air Traffic Services Training Centre, Likewise, AVM Sambo Usman has been appointed as Group Managing Director of NAF Holding Company, AVM Remigus Ekeh appointed as the Director of Evaluation at HQ NAF while AVM Paul Dimfwina becomes the Coordinator Project Implementation and Monitoring Committee at HQ NAF. Furthermore, AVM Ibukun Ojeyemi is now the SASO at Headquarters Air Training Command, Kaduna while AVM Frank Oparah has been appointed as Director of Research at Defence Headquarters.

“​Also appointed are AVM Peter Uzezi as Director Earth Observation at Defence Space Agency, AVM Olusegun Philips as Director of Museum and Archives at HQ NAF, AVM Chinwendu Onyike as Director of Technical Services at Defence Intelligence Agency and AVM Emmanuel Wonah as SASO, Headquarters Logistics Command, Ikeja. Similarly, AVM Abubakar Liman has been appointed as SASO, Headquarters Special Operations Command, Bauchi, AVM Mahmud Madi as Director of Launch Services and Space Operations at Defence Space Agency and Air Cdre Noah Oyibo as SASO, Headquarters Ground Training Command, Enugu. Meanwhile, Air Cdre Cosmas Ozouggwu is to take over as Director of Production at HQ NAF while Air Cdre David Aluku becomes the Director of Civil Military Relations also at HQ NAF.

“​The new posting also brought about changes at the Unit level. Some of the new Commanders and Commandants are Air Cdre Edward Adedokun, who is appointed as Commandant NAF Institute of Safety, Kaduna and Air Cdre Paul Masiyer, appointed as Commandant Military Training Centre, Kaduna. In addition, Air Cdre Moses Onilede is to take over as Commander 631 Aircraft Maintenance Depot, Ikeja while Air Cdre Elijah Ebiowe is appointed as Commander 115 Special Operations Group, Port Harcourt.

“​The newly posted and redeployed senior officers are expected to take over their new offices not later than 2 January 2018. Furthermore, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, has directed the newly appointed commanders of NAF field units to attend a workshop being organized at HQ NAF Abuja on 3 January 2018 for commanders. Command appointments in the NAF come with a lot of responsibilities, including the management of human and material resources. The workshop is therefore aimed at equipping/reminding commanders of their responsibilities and HQ NAF expectations in the conduct of their activities.”

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Nigerians Losing Hope On "Change" Promised Them – NLC

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC ) has said that the failure and inability of President Muhammadu Buhari led government to address the infrastructural deficit and other related problems, especially in the oil industry has dashed the hope placed on the change promised Nigerians by the APC led government.

The congress said Nigerians have continued to be at the receiving end, with over 4 million Nigerians losing their job in 2017 according to statistics provided by the National Bureau of Statistics as against the three million jobs annually promised by APC.

In his new year message to Nigerians, NLC President, Comrade Abubakar Wabba lamented that rather than work to create jobs and improve the condition of Nigerian working people and Nigerians in general, leading elements in the ruling APC government, like Governor Nasir el-Rufai, have been taking measures to further chastise and ruin Nigerians by throwing tens of thousands of workers into the already saturated unemployment market and wretchedness.

According to him, 2017 saw the working people, pensioners and other Nigerians facing series of daunting socio-economic and security challenges, “even though we had hoped that the year would offer succour for the masses of the people.”

Wabba said the deplorable economic situation in 2017 is aptly captured by the statistics recently released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) which indicated that over 4 million Nigerians lost their jobs in 2017.

He said: “Against the background of the campaign promise of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government to create three million jobs annually, this statistics from the NBS underscores the grave and depressing situation of the Nigerian economic landscape in 2017.

“Rather than work to create jobs and improve the condition of Nigerian working people and Nigerians in general, leading elements in the ruling APC government, like Governor Nasir el-Rufai, have been taking measures to further chastise and ruin Nigerians by throwing tens of thousands of workers into the already saturated unemployment market and wretchedness.

“In the same vein, despite the huge revenue that the states have received through the Federal Government intervention funds to clear arrears of unpaid salaries and pensions in many states of the federation, coupled with additional payment of three tranches of windfall, (Paris Club debt refunds), states like Kogi, Osun, Benue, Ekiti, Bayelsa and several others entered 2018 with huge arrears spanning up to ten (10) or more months of wages and pensions.

“Under these conditions, Nigerian workers, pensioners and their families remained the most despondent group in an economy that even the well-to-do are groaning and struggling to survive. No wonder, our country is one of the worst, known for having many hungry people in the world according to the World Hunger Index report 2017.”

He stressed that in recent times, Nigerians have witnessed one of the worst shortages in the supply of petrol in the history of the country in spite of Federal Government’s repeated claim that with the complete removal of subsidy on petroleum products, scarcity of petroleum products would become a thing of the past.

Wabba said that the position of the congress regarding the prevailing situation in the petroleum industry has been that the crisis in the industry is due to the inability or refusal of our ruling elite to refine all petroleum needs in Nigeria, adding that Nigeria remain the only major producer of crude oil in the world that depends on importation of refined products from abroad.

He said “For us in the Congress, and for majority of working people in Nigeria, the hope placed on the capacity of President Buhari to bring about positive change is being undermined by his government’s inability to address the infrastructural deficit and other related problems in the oil industry, such as making our existing refineries work at optimal capacity by refining products for domestic consumption.

“Not only is government unable to achieve this for almost three years now, but moving forward more refineries, especially modular refineries which can be built between 12 and 18 months are required to address the reoccurring challenge of fuel scarcity and price hike in Nigeria and stop the exploitation of ordinary Nigerians. The inherent corruption in the system has made this impossible for more than three decades and should be addressed headlong.”

On the new minimum wage, Wabba said the tripartite committee recently inaugurated should expeditiously conclude its assignment and ensure that a new minimum wage is put in place before the third quarters of the year and urged the National Assemboy to give accelerated hearing g to the bill that will be produced by the committee.

On local government autonomy the NLC President said: “Congress appreciates the recent passage of three core bills on Local Government autonomy in Nigeria by the National Assembly. It is our belief that the passage of the constitutional amendment to guarantee Local Government autonomy will promote good governance and deepen democratic culture at the grassroots level.

“We therefore call on the State Houses of Assembly to demonstrate courage, patriotism and assert their desired independence by passing these constitutional amendment bills designed towards emancipating our local governments and freeing their finances from being usurped by governors who are determined to truncate the quest for democratisation at the local government level.”

Wabba wants the National Assembly and State Houses of Assemblies to ensure that payment of primary school teachers’ salaries is put on first line charge of the Federation Account to assuage the fears of all stakeholders in the local government system.

“Over the years, the Congress has advocated for good governance as a basis for sustainable development of our country. We have in similar tone campaigned against corruption in our body politics, as this malady has remained the greatest impediment to our quest for national development.

“We believe that the ascendancy of the APC to power was rooted on the personal integrity and anti-corruption pedigree of President Buhari. As we move into 2018, our expectation is that the executive arm of government would push for the implementation of key anti-corruption protocols and good governance principles in our public and private institutions.

“In the same vein, we call on the government to increase the tempo of the fight against corruption in a way that is fair, just and all encompassing.”

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4 Best Cities For First-Time Overseas Travelers

If you’ve never traveled abroad before, it can be quite daunting and overwhelming because you might find it hard to decide on where to go. Jumia Travel shares 4 of the best cities for first-time overseas travelers to make it easier for you to decide on where to travel to.

Barcelona 
To be honest, there is really no place like Barcelona. In many ways, Barcelona encapsulates the best of Europe. If you really want to experience Europe, then Barcelona in Spain is one of the best places to visit. It is a very interesting place that’s culturally diverse, with great and breathtaking scenery. It is one of the most tourist-friendly cities in the world. The best part about Barcelona is that there are a ‘glut of cheap and chic hotels and/or accommodation’ for you to relax in while visiting. They also have a bustling and delightful food scene that is sure to give your taste buds a culinary experience like no other.

Paris 
Paris is considered one of the world’s most visited cities and for good reason. There is a certain ‘casual elegance’ to the city and that is further enhanced by its array of famous museums, beautiful architecture and pretty, intimate streets. Paris is one of the best cities for first time travelers because there really is hardly a chance of getting bored or underwhelmed. The city has a virtually limitless and wide array of shopping, dining, drinking and sightseeing opportunities. The best part about Paris is its extensive metro-system that makes transportation or getting around relatively easy. The only downside is that Paris is quite an expensive city but if you are able to budget well and set aside enough money, you are sure to have a great and memorable experience.

United Kingdom
This is the obvious choice for many first-time overseas travelers, especially those from Anglophone countries, because everyone speaks English so there will be less of a culture shock. The UK is very diverse so it offers the opportunity to enjoy big cities, beautiful seashores, as well as spectacular highlands. When visiting the UK, try to base your stay in London so you can visit iconic attractions like the Tower of London, Big Ben etc., and enjoy day trips to places like Windsor, Bath and St. Albans. Accomodation in the UK can be quite on the expensive side, so it will help if you know someone living in the UK that you can stay with during your visit. However, if you prepare, budget well and put enough money aside, you should be able to take care of accomodation without really breaking a sweat.

Canada 
This is generally a great place for first-time overseas travelers. It’s a safe, very friendly and incredibly scenic place. It’s ideal for outdoor adventures like whale watching, puffin and iceberg cruises, kayaking, hiking etc. There are also some great and delicious foods to enjoy like the famous sweet Canadian maple syrup. Many travelers to Canada go there to enjoy its calm, peaceful and scenic ambience. Canada is known to be one of the safest countries in the world, as well as one of the best countries in the world.

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Speaker Dogara To FG: Attend To Direct Needs of Nigerians

Speaker of the House of Reps, Honourable Yakubu Dogara, has reiterated the need for the Federal Government to attend to needs that have direct bearings on the lives of Nigerians.

A statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Mr Turaki Hassan quotes Dogara as saying that “2018 presents an opportunity for stock taking.

“And a strong resolve to sustain the gains of Nigeria’s exit from economic recession.

“Improvement of the economy, security and welfare of Nigerians must remain our priority in the New Year.

“Although employment generation and wealth creation remain priorities of our All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration, it is imperative for us to create more employment opportunities for the youth and women in order to underscore our drive for economic recovery and growth’’.

Dogara added, “we should also endeavour to attend to those needs that have direct bearing on the lives of the people and dire consequences on our nation, as democracy cannot succeed where poverty thrives.

“On our part in the House of Representatives, we will continue to pass laws that will better the lives of Nigerians, create conducive business environment for investments and secure the lives and properties of Nigerians.’’

The speaker, who commended the resilience and determination of Nigerians in the midst of daunting challenges, expressed optimism that better days were ahead.

He urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to sustain the nation’s unity and progress in 2018 and also draw from the lessons of 2017 to strengthen the bonds of unity, solidarity and peace.

“As a people, we must continue to imbibe the spirit of togetherness and love for one another.

“We must also support government at all levels by contributing our quota in the generation of wealth and alleviation of poverty in the land,” he said.

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Odunlade Adekola Celebrates His Birthday With Family & Friends

Popular actor Odunlade Adekola is a year older. He took to his page to appreciate family and friends for celebrating with him on his special day. HBD! More photos…

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Making Calls At Filling Stations Is A Crime — Nigeria Police

The Nigeria Police Force have said that making phone calls at filling stations is a criminal offence which could land the offender in jail.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Jimoh Moshood, stated that an offender could be prosecuted and jailed for attempted arson.

He noted that police officers have the authority to arrest anyone found making phone calls or smoking at filling stations.

He described the filling station as a public facility where motorists cannot act as they like on account of the inflammable products like petrol and other petroleum products being dispensed there.

Moshood, therefore, cautioned the public against violating the safety rules forbidding smoking and phone calls at filling stations.

He said, “Making phone calls or smoking at filling stations is a criminal offence and the police, of course, could arrest anyone violating the safety rules put in place to safeguard life and property at the filling stations.”
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PHOTO: Nigerian Lawmaker From Taraba Kidnapped

The Taraba Police Command on Sunday confirmed the abduction of a state legislator, Honourable Ibi Hosea by three unidentified gunmen.

Hosea represents Takum 1 in the State House of Assembly.

The command’s spokesman, Mr. David Misal said in Jalingo, the capital, that Hosea was kidnapped in Takum, his hometown Saturday night.

“I can confirm to you that the lawmaker was kidnapped last night in Takum. That is all I can tell you for now,” Misal said.

The spokesman said the command has mobilised its men to Takum to rescue the lawmaker.

Mr. Rimansikpe Tsokwa, a witness of the abduction, told NAN that Ibi was abducted around 10 p.m on Saturday.

“Three gunmen alighted from two motorcycles at about 10 p.m and stormed Hosea’s mother’s residence.

“Immediately they entered, they seized all handsets belonging to the people in the compound.

“They then dragged the member to their motorcycles and whisked him away without saying anything.” he said.

NAN reports that Takum is also the hometown of the state governor, Darius Ishaku, who is celebrating the New Year in the town.

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TRAGIC: 30 Die In New Year’s Eve Road Accident

Thirty people were killed and 16 injured in a road accident early Sunday morning after a bus and a truck had a head-on collision in central Kenya.

“We have 30 dead,” said Rift Valley traffic police chief Zero Arome of the 3am accident close to Nakuru town.

“All the bodies have been removed from the wreckage and injured people taken to hospital.”

The accident occurred close to a notorious stretch on the Nakuru-Eldoret highway when a bus travelling from Busia, in western Kenya, collided with a truck coming from Nakuru.

Police said the death toll for that stretch of road has now reached 100 this month alone.

Arome said the drivers of both vehicles were among the dead, as well as a three-year-old child, while the injured had been taken to a Nakuru hospital.

One survivor, speaking from his hospital bed, said he had been asleep at the back of the bus when the collision happened.

“All I heard was a loud bang and screams from all over,” he said. “I was seated at the back and was helped out after some time because my legs were stuck. It is by the grace of God that I am alive. I saw many people dead and their bodies mutilated.”

Official statistics show that around 3,000 people die annually in road accidents in Kenya.
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What The New Year Brings

The new year comes bearing gifts.

For some, it is the gift of relief – relief that the last year is over. For others, a new year brings hope – hope for the future and for a better year than the last. A new year can also bring anticipation for what’s ahead. Perhaps there’s a new adventure to look forward to. 

Or maybe we have goals for this year and look ahead to their completion.

Often, when we consider our expectations for the new year, we tend to plan for and look forward to good things. We anticipate fun activities, new experiences, and increased blessings. We set goals and make plans to attain the things and experiences we’ve long desired. We resolve to make things better and improve ourselves and our lives.

Sometimes though, like the ugly sweater or new appliance we never wanted, the new year brings gifts that aren’t desired. Fear. Uncertainty. Dread. Just the thought of the unknown future can bring worry or paralyzing fear. If that last year was especially hard, we may dread the thought of another difficult year. Or maybe we do know what to expect in 2018. Maybe we have a dreaded medical test or procedure scheduled. Or we are certain a relationship we’ve tried so hard to keep together will finally fall apart. Or that bill will finally come due and we know we have no way to pay it.

When I consider my own thoughts about this new year, part of me accepts the gift of sweet anticipation and looks forward to the experiences that lie ahead. Yet another part of me trembles a bit with fear at the unknown. The truth is, I know that life is filled with hardship and challenges. I don’t expect 2018 to be easy and carefree. And maybe that’s why there’s fear, because I know some challenge, obstacle, or hardship likely lie ahead.

But what if this year you and I embrace all that the new year brings? What if we looked forward to everything God wants to do in and through us in 2018?

Even if it’s hard? 

And even if the story He’s written for us this year involves more challenges, obstacles, and trials?

James tells us to “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds.” (1:2) As we look ahead into 2018, anticipating what God has planned for us, we need to face that future with joy. Not because trials are fun. Not because we want additional heartache in our life. Rather, we rejoice in what those trials produce in us, “the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (James 1:3,4).

We find joy in knowing what trials produce in us. God uses challenges and hardships to make us more and more like Christ. And what did our Savior’s life look like? One of suffering. Paul wrote, “I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.” (Philippians 4:10-11, NIV). Paul was willing to do whatever it took, even enduring trials, to become like Christ. May that be our goal as well for this year, to pursue Christ and become like him, no matter what it takes.

We face the new year with joy also because we know who rules and reigns over our trials. We can trust that each and every obstacle, whatever trial we endure, and any heartache we face, are all given to us by God for our good. He doesn’t use challenges or trials in a willy-nilly way, with no purpose or meaning. He doesn’t even do so out of anger and punishment. Rather, he uses trials for our discipline and training. They are used to strip away the remaining sin in us and shape us into the image of Christ. Such trials show us our need for God and his grace. They teach us humility and dependence. They are opportunities for us to grow in faith. They also show to a watching world the power of God in weakness, bringing him honor and glory.

Challenges and trials come to us from a good and righteous Father who only does what is good and right. We can trust his purposes and plans for us because he is holy and just. He knows exactly what we need to teach and train us in the way of righteousness. He knows just what we need to be made holy.

After all, we are his children, adopted through the sacrifice of Christ on our behalf. We are his beloved—loved by God as much as he loves the Son. He is gracious to us and no matter what the future holds, we are not left alone in it. He is with us, giving us peace in anxiety, strength in the face of suffering, and grace to endure. He also gives us brothers and sisters to walk with us: encouraging us when we stumble, helping us when we fall, and remaining with us to the finish line.

As we open this gift of a new year, may we accept it with hope and joy, rather than fear and despair. Because we know the sender of all gifts. And since he gave us the greatest gift of all — life through his Son — how can we not trust him with the gift of a new year?

[written by Christina Fox]

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Nigerian Army Begins 2018 Recruitment; how to apply

The Nigerian Army says it has commenced its online registration for the 77 Regular Recruit Intake for both trades, non-tradesmen and women from December 29 to February 9, 2018.

The army spokesman, Sani Usman, a brigadier general, said in a statement on Saturday that the exercise was aimed at selecting able bodied Nigerians and would take place in all states.

“Interested applicants must be Nigerians between the ages of 18 to 22 for non-tradesmen and women, while tradesmen and women must be between 22 to 26 years by 1st March 2018.

“Applicants are to visit the Nigerian Army official website http://ift.tt/1XxOacE to apply online,” Mr. Usman said.

Application is free.

For more details, applicants are to contact 

08038575725 or 08037234828.

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Power-Bike Accident: President Buhari Checks On His Son Again

President Muhammadu Buhari on Friday was back at the Cedar Crest Hospital, Gudu District, Abuja, where his son, Yusuf, who was injured in a motorbike accident, was hospitalised.

The President, who got there around 6pm, had on Thursday alongside his wife and Yusuf’s mother, Aisha, visited the hospital.

But the security situation around the hospital remained tense, as policemen screened those gaining entry into the medical facility.

A guard near the hospital told a Punch correspondent that the First Lady was believed to have slept overnight till Friday.

“The dignitaries have not stopped coming. We see luxury cars every 10 minutes, we see police escorts; I can’t mention everyone who has visited today.

“But the wife of the President slept in the hospital. She is still with the injured son,” the guard who pleaded anonymity, said.

It was learnt that Yusuf’s friend, Bashir Gwandu, was also at the Intensive Care Unit of the Cedar Crest Hospital, Abuja.

The President’s son had collided with Gwandu during a motorbike race on Tuesday night in Abuja.

Yusuf’s younger sister, Hanan, said her brother was doing well. Hanan, in a message on Instagram, stated, “Yusuf is doing well. Alamdulilahi. Thank you for all the messages.”

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Ten modular refineries reach advanced stage – VP Osinbajo

Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has said that the President Muhammadu Buhari administration is committed to promoting the establishment of privately financed modular refineries in the country.

This, he said, will increase local refining capacity, create jobs, ensure peace and stability in the Niger delta region.

A statement by the Senior Special Assistant on Media and publicity, Laolu Akande, said that the initiative which featured prominently in recent talks between the Federal Government and the oil-producing areas, as represented by PANDEF, will also reposition the petroleum industry and ensure self-sufficiency of petroleum products, while serving as a disincentive for illegal refineries and oil pollution.

According to the statement released on Saturday, he said “At an end-of-the-year review meeting of the Niger Delta Inter-Ministerial Committee at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, before the holidays, Prof. Osinbajo noted that the Federal Government, in line with its Niger Delta New Vision, is targeting measurable objectives in its efforts towards implementing development projects in the region.

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Presidency Explains Inclusion of Dead Persons in Federal Boards

The Presidency on Saturday explained why there were names of dead persons on the list of newly appointed chairmen and members of board of government parastatals and agencies.

The list was released on Friday by the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

The Senior Special Assistant to the on Media and publicity, Garba Shehu said that the list was prepared before President Muhammadu Buhari took ill and was subsequently released by the SGF, Boss Mustapha without any alteration.

According to him, the President requested for the submission of 50 names each by the state chapters of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in 2015 which were later complied by the National Secretariat of the party.

He also pointed out that the names were then submitted to the immediate past SGF, Babachir Lawal.

He said: “However, complaint arose from some governors who felt they were not carried along in the process. To answer this, the president constituted a committee under the vice president to review and reflect the interest of the governors.”

He said that action on the report submitted to the President by the committee headed by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo was delayed because of President Buhari’s illness and his subsequent medical vacation abroad.

“The president’s trips for medical attention slowed down completion of the process,” he said.

According to him, the president only decided to revisit the matter recently and therefore directed the new SGF to release the list.

“The current SGF was only directed to complete that process by releasing the list which he apparently did without altering it,” he stated.

He said that the appearance of dead persons names on the list was a mistake which would be corrected.

The President had approved the constitution of the Governing Boards of Agencies and Parastatals, under some Ministries, as well as the appointment of eminently qualified Nigerians to fill the Board positions.

It is made up of 209 Chairmen and 1,258 members.

According to a statement issued by SGF, in Abuja on Friday said the President considered the approval for the constitution of the Boards as well as the appointments as they were “very necessary, so as to provide a proper Governance and oversight structure for Government Agencies and Parastatals.”

The statement added: “The constitution of the boards with the appointments, is a demonstration of this Government’s efforts aimed at building strong institutions of Governance, and by extension, improving the quality of Policy formulation and supervision.

“While these appointments represent a substantial number of hitherto pending board appointments, some more appointments are still being processed and will be released in due course.

“The appointments take immediate effect and Honourable Ministers are advised to inaugurate the boards after letters of appointment have been issued.”

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5 Telltale Signs Someone Is A Foodie

Everyone knows that food is awesome and eating it is even better. This said, there are some people who take more interest in food than usual. Want to know if you are among these people? 

Well, Jumia Food highlights signs you are a foodie.

You can eat just about anything 
You are not very picky about the food you eat. You are flexible in terms of the cuisine you are having, and you are always ready to try something new. As long as you know it is good food, your stomach never says no.

You’re always the one to decide the menu 
Wherever you go out for lunch or dinner with your friends, the menu automatically gets into your hands. Everyone has faith in your ability to choose what they will eat because of how much you eat.

You have serious weight issues that you ignore You stand on the weighing machine and you are quite aware that you are overweight. Despite this, you ignore this and continue your food binging. You are obviously a foodie.

You plan your day around food Mealtime is the best time and you plan your day accordingly. Chances are you wake up having already planned what’s for breakfast and at the same time, you always have a snack on hand, because you are always hungry.

You travel to eat 
The concept of a holiday without food is unthinkable for you. You secretly plan your holidays based on the kind of food that is available at the travel destinations.

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A Prayer For The Year Ahead

Whether you’ve just walked through the greatest year of your life, or are incredibly glad to see this one finally over, one thing is certain: God excels in making all things new.

And although a fresh calendar year can never erase all the struggles or pain you may have faced this past year, God has the power to work through even the hardest of times, bringing renewed purpose, greater strength, and a hope that the world can’t ever offer.

On the heels of the celebration of the birth of our King, that reminder has the power to carry us right into a fresh, new start.

He is Immanuel, God with us.

Still. Always.

Five Verses of Hope: 

• “…Behold, I am making all things new…” (Revelation 21:5).

• “…but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead” (Philippians 3:13).

• “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland” (Isaiah 43:18-19).

• “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’” (Jeremiah 29:11).

• “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23).

A Prayer for the Year Ahead: 

Dear God,
We thank you that you know our way and you have a plan. We thank you for all this past year has brought, for the struggles as well as the blessings, because we know that you work through all things and will use them for good somehow, and for your glory. We confess our need for you again, for the fresh filling of your Spirit. We ask that you would make all things new, in our hearts, in our minds, in our lives, for this coming year. We pray for your refreshing over us and for your deep peace within.

We ask for your wisdom, for your strength and power to be constantly present in us. We pray you would make us strong and courageous for the road ahead. Give us ability beyond what we feel able, let your gifts flow freely through us, so that you would be honored by our lives, and others would be drawn to you. We ask you to keep our footsteps firm, on solid ground, helping us to be consistent and faithful. Give us supernatural endurance to stay the course, not swerving to the right or to the left, or being too easily distracted by other things that would seek to call us away from a close walk with you.

We ask for your hand to cover us and keep us distanced from the evil intent of the enemy; that you would be a barrier to surround us, that we’d be safe in your hands. We ask that you will be our defense and rear guard, keeping our way clear, removing the obstacles, and covering the pitfalls. Lord, lead us on your level ground. We pray that you would give us discernment and insight beyond our years, to understand your will, hear your voice, and know your ways.

We pray for your Spirit to lead us each step of this New Year. We ask for you to guide our decisions and turn our hearts to deeply desire you above all else. We ask that you will open doors needing to be opened and close the ones needing to be shut tightly. We ask that you would help us release our grip on the things to which you’ve said “no,” “not yet,” or “wait.” We ask for help to pursue you first, above every dream and desire you’ve put within our hearts. Keep your words of truth planted firmly within us, help us to keep focused on what is pure and right, and give us the power to be obedient to your word.

We ask for your miraculous provision for every need, we ask for your grace and favor. We pray for your blessings to cover our families. We pray that you would help us to prosper in all you are leading us to do, and bring every plan you have birthed in our hearts to fulfillment.

Shine your light in us, through us, over us. May we make a difference in this world, for your glory and purposes. Set your way before us. May all your plans succeed. May we reflect your peace and hope to a world that so desperately needs your presence and healing.

To you be glory and honor this New Year, and forever.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

[written by Debbie McDaniel]

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5 Reasons To Stop Cleaning Your Ear Wax Out

If you are engrossed in the practice of swabbing your ears with cotton buds, it is time for you to stop. This is because it has been discovered that ear wax is good for you due to the following reasons. 

However, according to Jumia Travel, this does not mean that people do have actual ear wax problems that need to be addressed with ear wax removal. You should not use a cotton bud.

It is not a sign of uncleanliness Some people make more earwax, while others make less. The makeup of earwax varies depending on ethnicity, age, environment, and even diet. However, it’s not a reflection of uncleanliness; in fact, it’s a sign of normal, healthy ears.

It can result in loss of hearing If you are an expert in ear cleaning, you may have permitted old ear wax filter into your ear canal. This can lead to ear loss or reduced hearing.

Ear wax keeps the ear healthy 
Ear wax protects your ears against bacteria, fungal infections and viruses. Amazingly, it even repels insects! It also protects and lubricates the inside of the ear canal to keep it healthy.

It can lead to ear injuries 
If you are not discreet about cleaning your ears and you insert just any sharp object, it can lead to serious ear injuries. And if you laggard in taking appropriate action, you are playing with ear loss.

Your ears can clean themselves 
Cerumen or earwax stops dirt and dust from entering the ear canal thus preventing it from slipping deeper down where it could block your eardrum and dull your hearing. Activities such as yawning, chewing and talking moves the dirty ear wax out of the ear canal. In addition to this, ensure you take a regular shower.

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President Buhari Will Do Better During His Second Term – APC Senator

The Senator representing Kano South, Kabiru Gaya, on Thursday gave an indication that President Muhammadu Buhari will be seeking re-election.

Shortly after meeting the President inside the Presidential Villa, Abuja, the senator told State House correspondents that Buhari will, during his second term, complete whichever projects he cannot complete before the end of his first term.

“On road projects, we have to thank President Buhari for putting extra efforts and may Allah continue to give him good health and strength to continue.

“I know he is going to inaugurate some projects in 2018 and those not completed will be completed during his second term,” he said.

Gaya said he was in the Presidential Villa to thank Buhari for visiting Kano State recently.

He said he was happy that the present administration had awarded the road projects from Kano to Abuja which will cost N165bn.

The senator said, “I am the Chairman of Works Committee. No government for the past 16 years has been able to put so much money on road project like this government.

“The budget of 2011-2014, it was only N26bn that was allocated to works but in 2016 when President Buhari came in, we had a budget of over N200 bn for works and in 2017 we have over N400bn and for 2018, we have about N500bn for works.

“So we are rehabilitating our roads and those that were abandoned for years the contractors have gone back to site.

“I have gone round 26 states of the federation as Chairman Senate Committee on Works, is remaining the states in the south-west and three states in the north-west for me to visit.

“We have seen that work are going on, in some places, there are issues of payment but the contractors are back to site because the president has orders for them to be paid and I’m sure payment to contractors commenced last week and will continue till next week.”

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Popular Channels TV’s Presenter, Maupe, Weds In Lagos

Channels’ presenter, Maupe Ogun has tied the knot with her Cinematographer lover, Bamidele Mohammed Yusuf.

She got married to her heartthrob in a ceremony in Lagos on Friday. Congrats to the couple.

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Tope Alabi & Husband Unveil Their New Multimillion Naira House In Lagos

Gospel singer Tope Alabi and her husband on Friday dedicated their newly completed house in Lagos to the glory of God.

The popular singer revealed how, when she started, she begged to perform for free in different churches and now God has blessed her family with a new house far better than what they use to call home previously. See the photos…

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Buhari Angrily Reacts To Son’s Accident, Blames Security Aides

President Muhammadu Buhari was very unpleased with his security aides over his son, Yusuf’s accident with a power bike. He believes it was wrong for them to allow his son out at that time of the night with a power-bike.

Yusuf was drag racing with a friend on Tuesday night around 8 pm when he crashed his power bike, sustaining head injuries and breaking a limb in the process.

According to ThisDay: “The president was at the hospital on Wednesday night. He was very devastated when he saw his son, Yusuf, in a very critical situation. He was shaking his head, while looking at his son and thereafter angrily reprimanded his security officials for allowing Yusuf to leave home at that time of the day for power-bike racing.

From the way the president spoke, it appears the security aides are in trouble. He spoke angrily. The Minister of Interior, Lt-Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd); his FCT ministry counterpart, Alhaji Mohammed Bello; and the Senate President’s wife, Mrs. Toyin Saraki; stayed throughout the night of Tuesday till Wednesday at the hospital with Hajia Aisha Buhari.

While the doctors were working to stabilise him, Dambazau kept appealing to the doctors to do everything possible to stabilise Yusuf, saying the president would find it very difficult to bear the pain if anything happens to his son.”

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Five Ways To Avoid Food Poisoning This Period

Since we are in the festive season, there is so much to eat and drink. As such, the possibility of experiencing food poisoning is very high. However, you can take a number of simple measures to prevent food contamination and reduce your risk of getting sick from tainted food so that you get the best out of this festive period! 

Jumia Food shares some measures.

Refrigerate raw meat or poultry immediately Unless you are preparing raw meat or poultry immediately, put them in the refrigerator. This will prevent germs from taking over. Once it’s in the refrigerator, however, don’t keep it for more than two or three days.

Defrost food safely 
The essential thing to remember is to not refrigerate food at room temperature. The safest way to defrost food is to actually do it in the fridge — moving it from the freezer to the fridge a day or so before you plan to cook it. If you microwave frozen food using the defrost settings, make sure to cook it immediately. Otherwise, bacteria has time and an ideal temperature in which to grow.

Cool leftovers quickly 
If you have cooked food that you’re not going to eat straight away, cool it as quickly as possible and store it in the fridge or freezer. Use any leftovers from the fridge within 2 days.

Respect expiry dates 
Don’t eat food that has past its expiry date, even if it looks and smells fresh. Use-by dates are based on scientific tests that show how quickly harmful bugs can develop in the packaged food.

Wash your hands 
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them before handling food, as well as after touching the bin, going to the toilet, blowing your nose or touching animals.

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Delta State University Genius Runs Mad… heartbreaking story

A young man who was described as academically sound during his undergraduate days has developed mental issues.

Read the touching story as shared by Eric Okijie below:

About a week ago, I was walking down a popular road in Benin city while on phone with a friend. As I was about to cross a T-junction, suddenly while still on the phone I heard the man (in rags) whose pictures you are seeing speaking the best of English grammar, but not minding him nor listening to what he was saying, I walked past him.

Immediately he paused, and I heard a strange voice calling me by name.

Shocked I quickly hanged up the phone.

Don’t you know me? He asked! I didn’t say a word. Looking at him, still wondering how he got to know my name!

Are you not a Nifesian? He questioned.

He then went on to remind me what happened about ten years ago, how I helped him as a fresher in Delsu Asaba campus, how I accommodated him when he had issues in hostel 9.

He told me his name is Emeka. At this point I was confused so I hurried away. But as I walked away, I was troubled within me especially because even though he looked insane, his ability to accurately remember events that transpired 10 years ago was baffling.

Convinced in my spirit to probe further, I went back.

I called him EMEKA and with excitement he said, “you Don remember me now abi?” Then I interrupted him.

I asked him who else he knew in Delsu apart from me. Adebola Bakare he replied.

The following discussion ensued;
Me: Who was you best friend in School?
Emeka: Stanley Ochuko

Me: Which course did you study?
Emeka: business administration

Me: which year did you gain admission? 

Emeka: 2007

Me: where you a regular student? 

Emeka: no it was CEP he replied.

At this moment I was like how come you remember so much? 

Emeka: I can remember everything that happened.

Me: Okay, give me any of your family member’s phone number.
Emeka: I can’t remember any

Me: if you can remember what happened 10 years ago, you should be able to remember a number.
Emeka: if I remember I for tell you.

Me: Where do your parents recides? 

Emeka: DSC.

Me: which church do your parents attend? 

Emeka: deeper life bible church.

Me: which branch?

Emeka: DSC branch.

Me: what about your siblings?
Emeka: I don’t know where they are.

I discovered that He is from Isialangwa, Ugwa in Abia state. His mum’s name is Mrs. Unkasi popularly known as “nwanyi church” he added. And for over 30 minutes I was with him asking questions and receiving answers?

Before I finally left, he described his place where he sleeps along the road to me. I have passed by that place several times within the week and always see him sitting.

I have gathered that his name is Onwughara Daniel and that he started having certain mental issues back in school.

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Governor Ayade Arrives Calabar Carnival on a ‘Monster Scorpion Bike’ with His Wife

The Governor of Cross River state, Ben Ayade stole the show at the ongoing 2017 Calabar Carnival festival, also tagged “Africa’s Biggest Street Party”, when he arrived with his wife on a ‘monster scorpion bike’.

The Governor was cheered by many onlookers who were wowed by the grand arrival. See more photos…

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