 Great100000: 11:42am On Oct 05, 2024 |
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[s][/s]It is make-or-break time for Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, who is under enormous pressure to achieve a positive result in Sunday's Premier League clash with Aston Villa at Villa Park.
The Red Devils blew a two-goal advantage before salvaging a late point in a 3-3 Europa League draw with Porto on Thursday, not long after Unai Emery's side produced one of the biggest Champions League upsets so far by beating Bayern Munich.
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| Great100000: 11:36am On Oct 05, 2024 |
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Manchester City is going head to head with Fulham starting on 5 Oct 2024 at 14:00 UTC at Etihad Stadium stadium, Manchester city, England.
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| Great100000: 8:51am On Oct 02, 2024 |
Electricity supply in Nigeria has been a constant challenge for years, with power outages frequent in many states.
However, some states are fortunate enough to experience relatively stable power compared to others. Here are some of the states with constant electricity supply in Nigeria.
1. Lagos State
As Nigeria’s economic hub, Lagos State enjoys relatively stable electricity compared to many other states. Its industrial and commercial importance has led to investments in better power infrastructure.
Areas such as Victoria Island, Lekki, and Ikoyi are mainly known for having good electricity supply, which makes Lagos a preferred location for businesses.
2. Ogun State
Ogun State benefits from a better electricity supply due to its proximity to Lagos. The state has developed infrastructure to its growing economy with numerous factories and industrial estates in places like Agbara and Ota.
Ogun is known for having a steady power supply, which makes it attractive to industries and manufacturing plants.
3. Rivers State
Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, is another area known for having relatively stable electricity. As the center of Nigeria’s oil industry, the state’s economic significance has ensured a better electricity supply.
While not perfect, residents and businesses in critical areas of Port Harcourt experience fewer power outages than many other states in Nigeria.
4. Akwa Ibom State
Akwa Ibom has recently become one of the states in Nigeria with improved electricity supply, thanks to the government’s investments in power infrastructure.
The state has its power plants, such as the Ibom Power Plant, which helps generate and stabilize electricity for the people of the state. Residents in Uyo, the state capital, often report a better power situation than in many other parts of Nigeria.
5. FCT, Abuja
Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, is known for having a relatively consistent power supply, especially in government and commercial areas. Due to the city’s federal importance, the power situation in Abuja is better than in many other parts of Nigeria.
Areas like Maitama, Asokoro, and Wuse often experience fewer outages, making Abuja an attractive destination for businesses and professionals.
Source: https://tribuneonlineng.com/5-top-states-with-constant-electricity-supply-in-nigeria/
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| Great100000: 5:40pm On Sep 29, 2024 |
Goallllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll 0 - 2
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1 Like |
| Great100000: 4:34pm On Sep 29, 2024 |
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Up Spurs
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| Great100000: 3:32pm On Sep 28, 2024 |
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Palmerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
Ice Cold Palmer is G.O.A.T
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2 Likes |
| Great100000: 11:11am On Sep 27, 2024 |
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18 Likes 5 Shares 
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| Great100000: 11:10am On Sep 27, 2024 |
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21 Likes 3 Shares 
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| Great100000: 11:00am On Sep 27, 2024 |
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Hamster Kombat will make you a billionaire
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| Great100000: 5:08pm On Sep 20, 2024 |
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| Great100000: 1:37pm On Sep 06, 2024 |
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Awesomely Awesome... 👍👍👍
I'm also great.
3 Likes 1 Share |
| Great100000: 12:39pm On Sep 06, 2024 |
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Hmmmm
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| Great100000: 11:59am On Sep 06, 2024 |
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has revealed that September 15, 2024, is the date it would commence lifting Motor Spirit from Dangote Refinery.
In a statement by NNPCL spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, the Executive Vice President of Downstream of the Company, Adedapo Segun disclosed this while speaking on TVC News’ “Journalists’ Hangout” show on Thursday,
He stressed that NNPCL was awaiting the September 15 timeline provided by the 650,000 barrels per day Lagos-based refinery. His comments come as fuel scarcity lingers nationwide despite the recent price hike.
Segun said that NNPCL is collaborating with marketers to “ensure that stations open early, close late, to maintain adequate fuel supply to meet the needs of Nigerians.”
“We are also engaging relevant authorities to ensure product diversions are prevented and timely deliveries to all stations are ensured.“The scarcity should ease in the next few days as more stations recalibrate and begin operations”, he announced to Nigerians.
Recall that Dangote Refinery on Wednesday denied claims that NNPCL has started lifting its petrol.
This comes days after Aliko Dangote, the President of the Dangote Group officially announced that his refinery has commenced production. https://dailypost.ng/2024/09/06/nnpcl-announces-date-to-lift-dangote-refinery-petrol/
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| Great100000: 7:03am On Sep 06, 2024 |
General Ahmed also implored them to use the opportunity of the service year to develop themselves and plan for greater heights in future.
Serving corps have been assured that as soon as civil servants start receiving the new minimum wage as approved by the federal government, their monthly allowance will also increase.
The NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Yusha’u Ahmed gave the assurance while addressing corps at Kebbi State Orientation Camp, Dakingari and Sokoto State Orientation Camp in Wamakko.
He said their selfless and immense contributions to the socio-economic development of the country cannot be underestimated.
General Ahmed also implored them to use the opportunity of the service year to develop themselves and plan for greater heights in future.
The director general further advised the corps to embrace the NYSC skill acquisition and entrepreneurship development programme, to acquire vocational skills that will make them self-reliant.
The federal government and the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) recently agreed to a ₦70, 000 new minimum wage for Nigerian civil servants.
https://www.channelstv.com/2024/09/04/new-minimum-wage-nysc-dg-promises-increased-allowance-for-corp-/
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| Great100000: 6:15am On Sep 06, 2024 |
The Federal Government has said potential buyers would have to present their National Identification Number (NIN) as commenced the sale of 30, 000 metric tonnes of milled rice to Nigerians at a subsidised rate of N40,000 per 50 kilograme bag.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, inaugurated the sale of the subsidised milled rice on Thursday in Abuja, noting that the exercise would be carried out across the country.
Kyari said the rice intervention was timely due to the times and current challenges in the country. He said that the Federal Government was aware of the potential challenges associated with the sales of an important staple such as rice, at this critical period.
Verification of buyers
Kyari said that a multi-disciplinary machinery of government had been deployed to ensure the transparency, wider reach, and success of the exercise.
- According to him, the process is structured to ensure that one person does not get more than one 50kg bag of rice.
- He said that intending beneficiaries would be “verified using relevant identification mediums such as the NIN and phone numbers to forestall multiple accesses to the commodity by fraudulent individuals at the detriment of other citizens.”
“In view of the above, I urge our dear citizens to cooperate with the relevant agencies of government who will try to serve you to achieve this great initiative of government.
“It is expected that with the injection of 30,000MT (1000 trucks of 30MT each of this important staple into Nigeria’s food balance sheet, it will not only crash the price of rice but also other closer food substitutes and alternatives,” he said.
Process of purchase
Highlighting the process Nigerians would have to follow to purchase the rice, the Director of Strategic Grains Reserve, Ministry of Agriculture, Dr Haruna Sule, said civil servants could access the grains from the point of sale with their Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).
“Once you have any of these three, you present it to the sales operators and it is logged on the platform that has been created.
“After this, you proceed to pay electronically with your ATM; once the payment is done, it is linked to the initial sales operator and it shows that you have paid; then a receipt will be issued with a code number,” he explained.
- With the code number, he said the buyer will be issued with a treasury receipt to show that he or she has paid to government.
- The buyer is then given a receipt which shows point of collection and time of collection; this is to eliminate any form of stampede.
- He noted that the point of collection is different from the point of sales, adding that “when you get to the collection point, you present your code to our officials and you will be given a bag of rice.”
- In Abuja, he said the plan is to set up about five to six sales points across the FCT and the duration of the distribution will be for the period they are able to finish sales.
What you should know
The sale of subsidised rice was first announced by the Minister of Information, Idris Mohammed, in July. Following the announcement, the Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs Human Resources Management Department asked civil servants to for the sale of the food item.
The government thereafter announced that it had halted the plan without any explanation about the reason.
Source: https://nairametrics.com/2024/09/05/fg-to-use-nin-for-verification-as-it-begins-sale-of-50kg-rice-at-n40000/
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| Great100000: 1:23pm On Sep 05, 2024 |
Melagros:
COMRADES are speechless, it's well
Yeah, it's well.
1 Like |
| Great100000: 1:21pm On Sep 05, 2024 |
— As China backs Nigeria’s geographical, development advantage in West Africa
ABUJA — NIGERIA and the People’s Republic of China have expressed their commitment towards encouraging flexible and diverse regional monetary and financial cooperation such as local currency swaps, to facilitate trade between the two countries and make contributions to global financial stability.
This was contained in the t statement between China and Nigeria on establishing being part of the broad consensus reached by the two sides during President Tinubu’s official visit to China. The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, had in 2018 signed a bilateral currency swap agreement with the People’s Bank of China, PBoC, worth about $2.4 billion but the implementation had been fraught with challenges due to trade imbalances between both countries.
The two countries also agreed to carry out international cooperation on financial intelligence on anti-monetary laundering/countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) and Nigeria’s efforts to safeguard the order of its financial and foreign exchange markets and to crack down on financial crimes, including money laundering. In the g of a series of partnership agreements and Memorandum of Understandings, MoUs, the two sides further ed the establishment of more friendly relations between Chinese and Nigerian provinces/states and municipalities to expand and deepen cooperation at the sub-national level.
They committed to stepping up the protection of lawful rights and interests of each other’s citizens on their territories and to creating a favourable business environment for each other’s companies.
As China welcomed Nigeria to expand trade between the two countries, the two sides agreed to make t efforts to fully Nigeria’s geographical and development advantage in West Africa to establish Africa’s flagship projects on cross-national and cross-regional cooperation. President Tinubu is in China at the invitation of President Xi Jinping for a State Visit and to attend the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).In their discussion, the two presidents agreed that both countries stood at a new historical starting point as significant representatives of major developing countries and emerging economies, noting that their strengthened strategic cooperation would propel a new dynamic for China-Africa relations in the new era and lead the Global South to march together.To consolidate mutual trust, expand cooperation and strengthen coordination, the two presidents have agreed to upgrade the China-Nigeria relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and build a High-level China-Nigeria Community with a shared future.
The statement noted that Nigeria and China have embarked on a path of seeking strength through unity for win-win cooperation, reaffirming their firm to each other on issues related to their respective core interests and major concerns, particularly sovereignty and territorial integrity.While the Chinese side resolved to the Renewed Hope Agenda of Nigeria and the efforts made by Nigeria to maintain national unity, peace, security, and social stability, as well as promote economic development and improve people’s welfare, the Nigerian side stated its firm adherence to the one-China principle.
Nigeria acknowledged that there is but one China in the world, and the government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory.“Nigeria opposes any form of ‘Taiwan Independence’ or interference in the internal affairs of China and firmly s all efforts made by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification,” the statement added.
The two sides spoke highly of the leading roles played by FOCAC in advancing the quality of cooperation between China and Africa over the past 24 years since, the establishment of FOCAC, believing that the successful convening of the Beijing Summit of FOCAC opened a new chapter of unity and cooperation between China and Africa.
Nigeria and China reiterated their firm to each other in independently seeking a development path that suits their national interest and will further strengthen exchanges on experiences of governance. https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/09/nigeria-china-move-to-revive-local-currency-swap/
1 Like 
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| Great100000: 9:08am On Sep 05, 2024 |
Cajal:
Thanks
You're welcome
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| Great100000: 7:33am On Sep 05, 2024 |
Visa regulations worldwide are undergoing significant updates starting this September, with updates that could impact a wide range of individuals, including frequent travellers, foreign workers, and students.
These new regulations are designed to address various national priorities, from attracting skilled labour to managing immigration more effectively.
For foreign workers, several countries are easing certain requirements to fill critical skill shortages. For example, Canada will waive the IELTS requirement for specific work permits, making it easier for workers in sectors facing labour shortages to enter the country, while is introducing tax reductions to attract skilled workers in technology and engineering, aiming to enhance its economic competitiveness. Here are the key updates across several countries:Canada waives the IELTS requirement for certain applications
Canada has started to ease the entry process for foreign workers by removing the IELTS requirement for certain work permits, particularly those tied to employer-specific roles and sectors with labour shortages.
While this change simplifies temporary work permit applications, language proficiency may still be required for permanent residency. Applicants should review specific eligibility criteria and documentation requirements to ensure successful applications. offers tax reductions for skilled foreign workers
introduced a new tax reduction plan to attract skilled foreign workers, particularly in technology and engineering starting this month.
The plan offers tax rebates of 30 per cent in the first year, 20 per cent in the second, and 10 per cent in the third, aimed at making more appealing to high-skilled professionals and addressing labour shortages in key sectors. According to Christian Lindner, the Federal Minister of Finance, “We are creating a tax rebate for foreign professionals during their first three years in . There will be rebates of 30 percent, 20 percent and 10 percent for people who come here as qualified specialists”.
These measures, effective immediately for new and existing work visa holders, are part of ’s broader strategy to enhance economic competitiveness by fostering a more dynamic and skilled workforce. New Zealand’s straight-to-residence visa for Tier 1 jobs
New Zealand introduced a “Straight to Residence Visa” this month, offering a direct pathway to residency for individuals in Tier 1 jobs within high-demand industries, such as healthcare, IT, and engineering.
This visa simplifies the process by removing traditional work-to-residency criteria, thereby reducing processing times, and making it easier for skilled workers to relocate to New Zealand. The initiative reflects New Zealand’s strategy to attract and retain top talent, addressing critical labour needs and ing the country’s long-term economic growth. United States visa updates
Starting in September, the US embassy expects longer visa wait times due to a surge in applications, particularly affecting tourists, students, and work visa applicants.
Hence, changes to the H-1B visa lottery system will introduce stricter eligibility criteria and increased scrutiny to reduce fraud, which may impact the timing and success of visa approvals. Applicants are advised to start the process early and ensure all documentation is accurate to avoid delays and complications. Ireland’s new flexible employment permits
From September, Ireland will implement more flexible employment permits, allowing foreign workers to switch employers and industries without restarting the visa process.
The improvements in the new Act will allow for a more modern, flexible employment permit system as well as ensure employee rights are maintained.
According to Peter Burke, the minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment of Ireland, “The improvements in the new Act will allow for a more modern, flexible employment permits system as well as ensuring employee rights are maintained”.
UAE visa amnesty programme
From September, the UAE will introduce a visa amnesty programme allowing visa overstayers to regularise their status without fines. This limited-time initiative offers the chance to either switch to new visa types or exit the country without financial penalties, encouraging prompt action from those eligible.
Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, head of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, said, “It is a chance for all violators to change their status in the country.” He said the initiative will enhance the country’s position in the human rights sector.
“We want to the people who are staying in the country by changing their status to enable them to get their rights and have a safe exit from the country or work and live decently in the UAE.”
Source: https://businessday.ng/news/article/here-are-6-visa-updates-in-various-countries-effective-september/
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| Great100000: 7:20am On Sep 05, 2024 |
•Three PMS vessels arrive, transport fares jump as major marketers raise fuel price.
Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation has reportedly suspended the sale of Motor Spirit – popularly called petrol – to independent marketers after it hiked the product’s price on Tuesday.
This is even as three vessels berthed at the Apapa, Lagos jetty on Wednesday to discharge imported petrol.
The price hike sparked a protest in Delta State as commercial tricycle operators, also known as ‘keke’ riders, took to the streets of Warri and Effurun metropolis to resist the price hike.
Checks by our correspondents revealed that commuters across the country were either stranded or trekked long distances on Wednesday as fuel queues worsened amid scarcity of the product.
Few commercial motorists came out for business, with most of them lamenting the agonising hike in fuel, barely a month after the hardship protest rocked the nation.
The National Vice President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Hammed Fashola, told The PUNCH that the NNPC stopped selling fuel to independent marketers on Tuesday when it raised the price of a litre of PMS to N855 and above across its retail outlets nationwide.
Independent marketers sold the product for as much as N1,200 and N1,300/litre in some states following the upward review of prices by the NNPC.
Fashola wondered why the national oil firm would suspend the sale of petrol to the marketers take without any official communication, even when the marketers had paid for the product over two months ago.
Asked if it was true that many of the independent marketers did not go to the depot to lift fuel, Fashola responded, “What are they going there to do? They have stopped our loading. All the tickets we have in the kitties of NNPC, they are not treating them; everything has been suspended.”
When our correspondent inquired to know if the suspension was done despite having paid for the product ordered, he replied, “Yes, our tickets were suspended for loading. They have not been attending to us since yesterday (Tuesday), and there is no official communication yet.
“It is a very bad situation for somebody who has paid for the product, maybe like two to three months ago, and all of a sudden, you stopped loading, maybe because you want to change the price. And it’s not the fault of that customer, because it is supposed to be cash-and-carry. So, I think the NNPC should look at that situation critically.”
It was learnt that NNPC usually prioritised major marketers while IPMAN resorted to private depot owners, who sold at higher prices, leading to a wide gap between the prices offered by both categories of marketers.
“We’re usually forced to go to private depots, it’s not out of our own volition. We were forced to go there because of inadequate supply,” Fashola stressed.
Speaking on the Dangote refinery fuel, which is expected to hit the pumps soon, Fashola said marketers would monitor the situation till Friday.
“We are watching the development. We are monitoring it; we will wait, maybe by Friday we will know where we are going by the time the Federal Government makes a pronouncement as regards the price. There is no official communication yet.”
The IPMAN official added that each filling station sold at their convenient price because NNPC couldn’t fix prices for other operators in the sector.
He stated that the new price announced by the state-owned company is only binding on the NNPC retail outlets.
“You know, NNPC cannot fix the price for us. They fixed the price for their stations; they are now a limited company. They have their retail outlets. That new price is their internal arrangement. So, we are yet to have an ex-depot price or marketer’s price,” he explained.
While believing that the new arrangement will close the price disparity between major and independent marketers, Fashola reiterated that at N855 per litre, the NNPC was still paying subsidy on petrol.
“I believe the price disparity gap will be closed somehow now. That is our belief. The truth is that, with the N855 in Lagos, and the landing cost of petrol, there are still some elements of subsidy. If the NNPC claimed that they are selling at half the cost of the landing price at N568/litre, it means the landing cost should be around N1, 200/litre. If they are selling a litre of petrol at N855/litre, there are still some elements of subsidy,” he added.
He said the association was expecting the details of the arrangement between Dangote and the government on the supply of PMS, especially as Aliko Dangote announced that the NNPC would fix the price.
“For now, we don’t have the details; it’s only Dangote who made the announcement that NNPC would fix the price. So, it’s in two ways. Maybe NNPC wants to act as an off-taker for the Dangote refinery, and they will now start distributing on behalf of Dangote to the marketers. There are a lot of things involved in this Dangote naira-to-naira transaction. There must be something that’s a factor. Maybe that will bring the price to a reasonable level, I don’t know. It may not be called a subsidy, maybe an in-house arrangement.
“If Dangote is buying naira-to-naira, there must be some little difference in of cost. It might be so small, but I believe there must be a difference. They know what they are doing, we are waiting for them to come out and we will react,” Fashola noted.
NNPC spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, did not reply to calls or messages from our correspondent on the matter.
The PUNCH reports that the fuel crisis that has lingered for two months worsened on Wednesday following the price hike.
Several filling stations seized the opportunity to extort customers who were in dire need of the product for their vehicles, power generators and other machines.
Some of the stations in Lagos and along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway sold petrol around N900 and N1,200/litre as the queues worsened across Nigeria’s commercial capital city.
Residents of Ogun border communities disclosed that they got PMS at N1,600/litre from black marketers, claiming petrol supply had been banned from the areas.
Though the NNPC denied ordering Tuesday price increase, all its retail stations have adjusted to the new price, leaving Nigerians not knowing who to believe.
Commuters were stranded as there were a few commercial buses on the road to convey engers. The drivers conveyed only commuters who were ready to pay more for transport fares, blaming the rise in fares on the high cost of fuel
Three vessels arrive
The PUNCH gathered that three vessels arrived the Apapa depot in Lagos on Wednesday to discharge petrol.
Multiple sources told our correspondent that loading improved on Wednesday compared to Tuesday, when the marketers stayed away.
“Loading is picking up slowly. It is far better than yesterday (Tuesday),” a source said.
Another depot operator, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak on the matter, said supply was ramped up by the NNPC, the sole importer of petrol.
“Supply is good today (Wednesday). Three PMS-laden vessels are in Apapa jetty now as we speak. Two of them are already discharging the product,” the depot official said.
It was gathered that the NNPC was making efforts to sell its old stocks before starting its transaction with Dangote refinery.
While unveiling its PMS on Tuesday, Dangote announced that the product would hit the market in 48 hours, adding, however, that this was subject to the readiness of the Federal Government and the NNPC.
Nigerians are eager to know whether or not the Dangote refinery could crash the price of PMS.
TUC slams FG
Meanwhile, the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria on Wednesday expressed shock and dismay over Tuesday’s hike in the pump price of petrol, demanding its immediate reversal by the Federal Government.
TUC in a statement by its president, Festus Osifo, contended that the sudden hike in fuel and electricity costs will exacerbate the poverty level, worsen the suffering and hardships across the country and may trigger social unrest.
The statement read, “TUC received the news of PMS Price hike with great contestation and grave concern. The burden of PMS price increase is huge and percolates all facet of our social-economic life.
“This sudden hike, implemented without consultation with critical stakeholders, represents a blatant disregard for the welfare of the Nigerian people, particularly the working class who bear the brunt of such decisions.
“The disturbing news of the increase in PMS pump price all over the country has sent a wave of apprehension and depression across the length and breadth of the nation.
“This is in the wake of an already existing unprecedented hardship upon citizens.
“In addition, we are deeply troubled by the further hike in electricity tariffs to 250 percent a service that is essential for the survival of the poorest in our society. The timing and magnitude of these increases, in the absence of any meaningful social security measures, demonstrate a lack of empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians.”
It added, “Why does it have to be the common Nigerians bearing all the pains of high cost of living while those in power enjoy increased allocation and affluence?
“The government has not made any concerted efforts to reduce the cost of governance or personal effects, nor have they focused on directing resources or effecting policies that would strengthen the naira and improve the standard of living of our citizens.
“The Congress has long posited several strategies that should be activated towards improving the strength of the Naira and give value to every kobo spent by Nigerians as this is one of the root causes of all the economic woes we face as a country today. Yet much hasn’t been done about these recommendations.”
Also, the Nigeria Labour Congress on Wednesday responded to the denial by the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Print Media, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, regarding an agreement on minimum wage and fuel price hike.
The union described Abdulaziz’s denial as “amusing” and questioned his credibility, suggesting he might be suffering from “selective amnesia” or “attention span deficit.”
The Presidency on Wednesday accused NLC president, Joe Ajaero, of playing dirty politics following his declaration that the Tinubu istration betrayed the NLC by increasing the price of fuel despite a mutual agreement.
Speaking in a statement signed by Benson Upah, Head, Public Relations, NLC, the union reaffirmed its statement, challenging Abdulaziz to reveal the truth about the presidential meetings with labour leaders. They also criticized his personal attack on Joe Ajaero, stating that Nigerians don’t need Ajaero to recognize the harsh realities of life under the current government.
“The union emphasised that Nigerians deserve a decent life, free from harassment and starvation, and warned that “falsehood does not live forever.” They remain resolute in their stance, despite the government’s attempts to discredit them.
“Whatever the matter is with Abdulaziz, we stand by our statement. And if Abdulaziz was at those meetings as he claimed, he should be courageous enough to let the world know whether the President gave the labour leaders one hour to meet and resolve to either accept and allow increase or accept N62,000.
“Labour leaders instead chose to meet outside the Villa and report in a week. When they came back, they were blunt and rejected the offer.
“As for Abdulaziz’s side-dig, he should stop insulting the intelligence of Nigerians as they do not need Comrade Joe Ajaero to know they have been taken for a ride and that life has never been this mean, all due to the policies of government.
“We also find it necessary to let Abdulaziz and those who sent him know that Nigerians are entitled to a decent, respectable life free from harassment, intimidation and starvation.
“Government may have all the ultimate weapons of coercion, true power resides with the people. Finally, we are also acutely conscious of the fact that falsehood does not live forever.”
Protest, lamentations
Commercial tricycle operators in Warri and Effurun metropolis of Delta State, alongside aggrieved women and youths took to the streets on Wednesday in a peaceful protest over the persistent scarcity of fuel amidst the hike in price.
The market women and the cyclists, in their hundreds, marched through the major roads, calling on President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene and reverse the fuel price hike.
The protesters carried placards and chanted slogans expressing their frustration and anger over the government’s decision to increase fuel price to almost N1100/litre, which they say has worsened their economic struggles.
Some of the placards had inscriptions such as ‘Tinubu, intervene now to alleviate commuters sufferings’, ‘Tinubu, activate Warri, Kaduna refineries without further delay’, and ‘We are suffering in silence, the fuel price hike is a killer.’
One of our correspondents observed that most of the filling stations along the Warri-Sapele road were shut to motorists on Wednesday morning while the few that were open for business sold petrol at above N1,000.
Consequently, the development had adverse effects on commuters within the metropolis as well as inter-state travellers as motorists adjusted their transport fares upwards.
Workers ride bicycles
Following the increase in pump price on Tuesday, more residents and workers, including civil servants in Borno State, have embraced trekking, tricycles and bicycles for mobility.
During the early hours of Wednesday in Maiduguri, the state capital, there were less vehicles and more pedestrians on major roads.
Some residents of Nasarawa State lamented the hike after it forced many of them to resort to trekking as they could not afford the luxury of boarding tricycles and buses.
The product, which used to be sold between N930 and N950/litre in most stations in Lafia and its environs, is now sold between N990 and N1,000/litre.
Our correspondent in Lafia observed on Wednesday that many workers and businessmen trekked short distances to their workplaces to avoid spending outside their budgets.
Tricycles, motorcycles and vehicles operators in the state capital had jacked up their prices for both short and long distances due to the rising cost of fuel.
Tricycle riders in Lafia had fixed N250 for a drop per enger but with the increase in price, the transporters jacked up their prices to between N350 and N400.
In Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, residents stayed indoors following the increase in fuel price.
There was a dearth of vehicles on the streets of Ilorin as a result of the increase in the price of PMS.
Many vehicle owners, who were caught unaware, angrily abandoned their cars at home or parked by the roadside to make use of commercial motorcycles and tricycles to their respective destinations.
A litre of petrol was sold at N870/litre at NNPC stations while independent marketers sold at between N950 and N1,200/litre.
However, commercial vehicle operators in Ilorin complained of low turnout by engers.
Similarly, one of the leaders of IPMAN in the state, Alhaji Kunle Sanni, tasked the Presidency to halt what he described as “their flamboyant lifestyles” while masses were being pushed deeper into poverty.
The septuagenarian told The PUNCH that it was regrettable that the Presidency was travelling around the globe in needless multi-billion Naira private jets while its citizens lived in penury.
He said, “There has to be a social service that any government must provide for her people but the present government hasn’t done anything in this regard. Instead all of them, the Presidency and National Assembly , are living flamboyant lifestyles while the masses are suffering more and more.
“The former price of N580/litre was on a very high side, we complained bitterly against it and expected that Dangote product would give us a relief but here we are with another increase and all manner of sabotage stories about Dangote refinery. What kind of a government is this?” “I haven’t sold PMS for over three months now because of the increase because I can’t stand people’s curses on me for what I don’t know anything about.”
The hikealso left hundreds of commuters stranded in Kaduna, with many filing stations closing shop or selling at exorbitant prices.
On Wednesday, residents were forced to trek long distances or opt for expensive alternative transportation.
Journalist Amos Mathew parked his car due to the hike, spending N400 on a tricycle ride instead of the usual N100.
Source: https://punchng.com/petrol-scarcity-nnpcl-bars-independent-marketers-amid-surging-prices/
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| Great100000: 6:56am On Sep 05, 2024 |
• Backs move by W’African country’s trade expansion initiatives
• Tinubu: Africa has huge potential for investments, growth
• Holds bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier, Li Qiang
• Deji Elumoye in Beijing and Michael Olugbode in Abuja
China has agreed to continue to Nigeria’s infrastructural development in sectors such as transportation, ports and free trade zones, for the West African country to achieve integrated development and connectivity.
This pledge was made as President Bola Tinubu disclosed that Africa holds vast opportunities for investments, growth, and development with its vibrant population, productive economy, and natural resources.
These were part of the fallouts of the ongoing visit of Tinubu to China.
The pledge by the Chinese government to Nigeria was contained in a t statement issued yesterday, between the People’s Republic of China and the Federal Republic of Nigeria on Establishing a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and Building a High-Level China-Nigeria Community with a Shared Community with a Shared Future.
The statement revealed that the two sides agreed to deepen cooperation on the infrastructure connectivity between the two countries, with China proactively ing Nigeria in developing its domestic infrastructure construction, including transportation, ports, and free trade zones, towards achieving integrated development and connectivity for industries.
The statement noted that the two sides would make t efforts to fully Nigeria’s geographical and development advantage in West Africa to establish Africa’s flagship projects on cross-national and cross-regional cooperation.
During the visit of Tinubu to China at the invitation of Xi Jinping and to attend the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), the statement added that the two leaders had a cordial discussion, with an in-depth exchange on China-Nigeria relations as well as international and regional issues of mutual interest.
The two presidents agreed that both countries stood at a new historical starting point as significant representatives of major developing countries and emerging economies.
Their strengthened strategic cooperation would propel a new dynamic for China-Africa relations in the new era and lead the Global South to march together.
According to the statement, to consolidate mutual trust, expand cooperation, and strengthen coordination, the two Presidents agreed to upgrade the China-Nigeria relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and build a High-level China-Nigeria Community with a shared future.
In building high-level strategic mutual trust, the two sides agreed among others to each other on issues related to their respective core interests and major concerns, particularly sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Chinese side extended its to the Renewed Hope Agenda of Nigeria and the efforts made by Nigeria to maintain national unity, peace, security, and social stability, as well as promote economic development and improve people’s welfare.
“The Nigerian side firmly adheres to the one-China principle, acknowledges that there is but one China in the world, and the government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory, declaring opposition to any form of ‘Taiwan Independence’ or interference in the internal affairs of China and firmly s all efforts made by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification,” it stated.
The two sides spoke highly of the leading roles played by FOCAC in advancing the quality of cooperation between China and Africa over the past 24 years since the establishment of FOCAC.
They believed that the successful convening of the Beijing Summit of FOCAC opened a new chapter of unity and cooperation between China and Africa.
The two sides reiterated their firm to each other in independently seeking a development path that suits their national interest and would further strengthen exchanges on experiences of governance, with Nigeria recognising that under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, the Chinese people have made great transformation through a Chinese path to modernisation, and subscribed to the opinion that the Chinese path to modernisation expands options of development and solutions of practices for mankind in seeking modernisation.
The two parties also commended each other’s efforts towards the prioritisation of sustainable development and economic growth through the implementation of various developmental initiatives aimed at achieving poverty alleviation and enhanced food security.
Nigeria applauded and ed the vision of Building a Community with a Shared Future for Mankind, The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI) and the Global Civilisation Initiative (GCI) proposed by President Xi Jinping, with both sides pledging to each other’s efforts in multilateral affairs, including the UN, the G20 and BRICS, agreeing to the increased calls for UN Security Council reforms with balanced geographical representation to reflect current geo-political realities.
They also agreed that human rights, including the right to development, are a common cause for all humanity and opposed the politicisation of human rights issues and interference in other countries’ internal affairs under the pretext of human rights.
“China appreciates the efforts of Nigeria in enhancing regional peace and solidarity and promoting regional integration, with a strong emphasis on respecting democracy, good governance, and the rights of citizens.
“China s the West African countries in addressing differences through friendly dialogue and consultations and to carry forward the regional integration. In this regard, China also urges other international actors to refrain from actions that could turn the region into a space for geopolitical contestation.
“China welcomed Nigeria to expand trade between the two countries through platforms such as the China International Import Expo (CIIE), the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE) and the China Import and Export Fair (the Canton Fair), Lagos and Abuja International Trade Fairs, the Annual Nigerian Mining Week and through new channels such as e-commerce and overseas warehouses in China. China s the import of more quality products from Nigeria into its market.
“Nigeria expressed its willingness to strengthen its partnership with China in the development of energy and mineral resources and to work with Chinese companies to set up plants in Nigeria to meet local consumption and export needs, while China promised to encourage more competent Chinese companies to invest in Nigeria to contribute to the diversified and dynamic development of Nigeria’s economy.
“The two countries showed interest in seizing the opportunities of developing productive capacity to further deepen overall reform and tly explore cooperation in areas such as digital economy, green development, blue economy and agricultural modernisation, and foster new growth drivers in cooperation,” the statement added.
Nigeria welcomed the Global Initiative for Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance and Global Initiative on Data Security proposed by the Chinese side and appreciates China’s efforts in promoting the rights of developing countries in artificial intelligence, network, data and other fields.
“The two sides also expressed committed to ing the WTO focused multilateral trading system, oppose trade protectionism, promote trade and investment liberalisation and facilitation, create a transparent and non-discriminatory business environment for cooperation between the two countries, while equally expressing for the establishment of more friendly relations between Chinese and Nigerian provinces/states and municipalities with a view to expand and deepen cooperation at the sub-national level.
“China commended Nigeria’s leading role in ECOWAS and its efforts towards bringing stability to the region, it also Nigeria to play a strong leading role in the regional affairs including fight against terrorism and managing differences, even as the two sides agreed to stay committed to safeguarding peace, security and stability in the region, including the Sahel and Gulf of Guinea,” it stated further.
Meanwhile, Tinubu has disclosed that Africa holds vast opportunities for investments, growth, and development with its vibrant population, productive economy, and natural resources.
Speaking yesterday, at a bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, in Beijing, Tinubu called for a strategic focus on areas of collaboration that will ensure the relationship remains mutually beneficial.
He said: “Africa is a huge opportunity for economic development. As great people, we are willing to partner for progress and development.
“What is most important will be the focus of FOCAC in areas on which we can collaborate to make the relationship mutually beneficial to all of us.”
Tinubu commended the role of the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in advancing partnership between Africa and China for mutual development and prosperity.
According to him: ”The African spirit for FOCAC is based upon mutual respect and partnership that promotes development, happiness, peace, and stability for our people. We are in this journey together. We believe that we share common interests, which are investments and development.
”For me, as a Nigerian and as Chairman of ECOWAS, I am happy that the strategic partnership being promoted is acceptable to both sides and this is the way to go.”
Earlier in his welcome address, the Premier said China was ready to work with Nigeria to deliver on the mutual understanding reached by Xi Jinping and Tinubu under the recently established comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations.
Source: https://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2024/09/05/china-pledges-more--for-nigerias-infrastructure-devt/
6 Likes 1 Share 
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| Great100000: 2:57pm On Sep 01, 2024 |
phr0nesis:
After just 3 matches?
The 3rd match hasn't even yet
Yes, after 3 matches#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut#MarescaOut
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| Great100000: 2:45pm On Sep 01, 2024 |
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#MarescaOut
#MarescaOut
#MarescaOut
#MarescaOut
#MarescaOut
#MarescaOut
#MarescaOut
#MarescaOut
#MarescaOut
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| Great100000: 12:31pm On Sep 01, 2024 |
We have made our choice” – Napoli’s Sporting Director breaks silence on Osimhen’s first team ban.
Napoli signed Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea before England's transfer window closed, but Osimhen remains at the club.
Napoli’s Sporting Director, Giovanni Manna, has spoken about his club’s decision to axe Super Eagles forward, Victor Osimhen, from Antonio Conte’s senior squad, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 25-year-old looked set to Chelsea on transfer deadline day, but the deal fell through due to a difference in salary expectations from both parties.
Osimhen had not trained with the Napoli senior team since the start of the month, missing their pre-season games in a bid to force an exit from Italy.
However, the move didn’t happen, leaving the Nigerian no choice but to continue his football journey with Napoli.
The manner in which Osimhen handled the situation angered the Napoli hierarchy. As a result, the 2023 Scudetto winners handed Osimhen’s number 9 jersey to Romelu Lukaku and banished the former LOSC Lille man from all first-team appearances.
Speaking in an interview with DAZN, Napoli’s Sporting Director remained composed about his side’s ability to cope without the 2023 CAF Player of the Year.
“We’ve made significant investments; we brought in Lukaku and kept Raspadori and Simeone, which wasn’t guaranteed. Right now, we are sticking to our consistent approach that we’ve had from the start. Victor has expressed his desire not to play for Napoli, and we have made other choices. The market is still open, there are many options, but I don’t think Victor will be going to Saudi Arabia in this transfer window,” Manna said in quotes revealed by Napoli Zone.
Osimhen, having missed yesterday’s Napoli clash against Parma, seems to have lost his place in Conte’s first-team squad. It is unclear if he will be given time to play in the rest of Napoli’s games this year.
https://soccernet.ng/2024/08/we-have-made-our-choice-napolis-sporting-director-breaks-silence-on-osimhens-first-team-ban.html
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| Great100000: 10:28am On Aug 31, 2024 |
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| Great100000: 8:48pm On Aug 25, 2024 |
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| Great100000: 5:14pm On Aug 22, 2024 |
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