PDP gubernatorial candidate in the 2018 governorship election, Senator Ademola Adeleke has congratulated Governor Gboyega Oyetola on his victory at the Supreme Court, submitting that his ambition was never a do or die affair.

In a statement issued after the court ruling on Friday, July 5, 2019, Senator Adeleke said the Supreme Court being the apex court in the land, their decision, regardless of his disagreement and disappointment with same, remains final. ‘As a Democrat and law abiding citizen, I accept the ruling no matter my misgivings.

I wish Governor Oyetola well in the governance of Osun state’ Senator Adeleke said. He expressed immense gratitude and appreciation to his teeming supporters, leaders and members of the People’s Democratic Party for their massive support throughout the duration of the case, lauding “our high spirit and commitment to the cause of democracy which we championed from last year tilll date.

‘In all circumstances, we must thank God Almighty. We gallantly fought a good fight in pursuance of a democratic cause. The ideals we fought for lives on. Our ambition was never a do or die affair. We aspired to serve and deliver democratic dividends to the people of Osun state. Our ambition was altruistic.

We wish Governor Oyetola the best in governance of the state’ he stated.

–Akinlolu Abayomi

Contemporary live band celebrity musician, David Seun Bankole a.k.a. SB Live, has won City People ‘Most Stylish Showbiz Personality of The Year’ award. 

The talented musician was honoured at the prestigious Coliseum Event Centre , Lekki Phase 1, Lagos  on Sunday June 30th 2019 at an event that was graced by A-List celebrities from various fields of endeavor.

S B Live, who just released a new E P, ‘Orire’, expressed his joy on the award in a chat with Global Excellence Online.

“I’m very happy winning this award. It is a sign of progress for me. It has been very rough to reach this level in my scintillating musical career. I fought hard as well with empty stomach before my parents could give me the opportunity to do music. I’m still aspiring more. I will keep working hard . I will not disappoint my family, fans that have been there for me. This is the beginning. I thank City People management for the award,” SB stated.

Meanwhile, the star singer is now planning a U S musical tour. This tour, we gathered, will see him perform in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Indianapolis, Philadefia, Maryland , and Atlanta Georgia, among other counties in the United States of America.

Upon his return from the American tour, SB he will stage a live concert in October for his fans who have been hungry for his music. 

The live band artiste, for information, performs every Friday at Radisson Blue, G R A, Ikeja and on Sunday at ‘District 10 Lounge’ C M D Road, Magodo respectively.

-Tijani Adegbola

The ancient city of Ondo, Ondo State, on Saturday July 6, 2019 played host to people from all walks of life as Comrade Josuah Olushola, Deputy Chairman 2 of Petroleum Tanker Drivers Branch of NUPENG (PTD) NIPCO Unit was buried.

The deceased died in the hospital in Lagos on Thursday May 16, 2019 at the age of 65.

At the funeral service held at his private residence by Christ Apostolic Church led by Pastor Jeje Jonathan in his sermon, urged Christians to always do good and walk in the way of God while alive.

He described the deceased as a man with exemplary virtues.

His words, “The value of life is in its application in things we do. Both the rich and the poor will taste death, this world is a passing phase and whenever death strikes, it gives us all the opportunity to evaluate our relationship with God.”

One of the daughters of the late Comrade, Mrs Jumoke Ajibulu, described her late dad as a pillar of support and upholder of values and shared heritage and that she will miss him greatly.

Publisher of veracitydesk.com (a digital magazine) and Trade Unionst, Comrade Emmanuel Ajibulu, son-in-law to the deceased on his part added;

“Baba was a loving father-in-law, a caring, playful, cheerful grandfather, a devoted husband to mama, my mother-in-law for over 40 years. Baba was extremely intelligent and prophetic too and most respected person I have ever known.

In all the 11 years I have known him, I cannot recall a single moment where he raised his voice or complained about anything. From the beginning when I met him, he took me in as his own son and made me feel part of his family from that very moment.

I can say without any second thought that time spent with him have been a treasured time in my life, my wife’s life, and my children’s lives. We were so fortunate to have him with us for all these years.”

He continued, “My father-in-law has touched each of our lives in ways that cannot be expressed with words. Through his living example, he has taught us what it means to be a man of humility, honor and grace. We have so many wonderful memories with him that we will treasure for the years to come, all of them happy and joyful. 

Not only has he been an amazing father to my wife, and my sister-in-law, Mrs Omowunmi Jobi and her husband, Mr. Tunde Jobi but also an incredible role model to all his grand children.”

The deceased also received far reaching encomiums and tributes from family members, friends, colleagues and other sympathizers who came for the function.

His elder brother, Hon. Comrade Joseph Akinlaja who was immediate past Chairman of House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources Downstream could not be approached for comments as he was openly seen to be emotionally down amidst uncontrollable tears.

Members of PTD and Independent Marketers Branch of NUPENG at National, Zonal and Unit levels were in attendance. Chairman of Lagos Zonal Council of NUPENG, Comrade Tayo Aboyeyi, NUPENG National Welfare Officer, Comrade Adejoke Oyeleke also registered their presence to commiserate with the family.

What is emanating from the neighbourhood of the foremost Islamic singer, Alhaja Rukayat Gawat, popularly known as Sheikha, is her new venture that she has been using to support the communities within her.

Gathered from reliable sources that the beloved daughter of former ace Islamic program presenter, Alhaji Razak Gawat, has just joined the elite league of industrious and well-meaning Nigerians who ventured into the water production business, (bottled and sachet,) which she brands ‘SpringStar Water.’ 

Enterprising and sensational Rukayat Gawat is someone whose milk of human kindness, is like an inestimable fountain, which has endlessly flowed to whet parched throats, just as he is a passionate lover of humanity, generosity, charity, philanthropy, and an embodiment of munificence in all its ramifications.

This beautiful mother of two is taking good advantage of the hard times to give back to her people, through free doling of bags of her pure water production to individuals for the sustainability of their living. This is only because she knows the value of water to their life and business.

Recently, she was sighted at her neighbourhood of Ogudu, a rural suburb of Lagos, randomly distributing free bags of water to people, and at the same time promoting and creating awareness of his new venture, the ‘SpringStar’ water production, which has been in operation for some time now without attracting any publicity.

A semi-final spot at the ongoing 2019 Africa Cup of Nations is up for grabs when the Super Eagles of Nigeria take on the Bafana Bafana of South Africa in one of the tournament’s quarter-final games on Wednesday.

The match between two past winners of the African Cup of Nations, billed for Cairo International Stadium, will be broadcast live at 8pm on SuperSport 7 and 10 on all DStv packages, and SuperSport Select 2 and 4 on GOtv Max and Plus packages.

The Super Eagles, who posted two underwhelming victories and lost 0 – 2 to minnows, Madagascar booked their place in the quarter-final after a hard-fought 3 – 2 victory over continental powerhouse and defending champions, Cameroon, on Saturday.

South Africa, on the other hand, qualified for the knockout stage as one of the third-best placed teams. They advanced to the quarter-final with an impressive performance against hosts and one of the pre-tournament favourites, Egypt, in front of 80,000 fans at the Cairo International Stadium.

Both teams have met 13 times, with six Nigerian victories against South Africa’s two, the most recent being the 2 – 0 away victory over the Super Eagles in a 2019 AFCON Group E qualifier played in June 2017. The return leg last November in Johannesburg ended 1 – 1.

Coach Gernot Rohr will once again look to Odion Ighalo for inspiration, with the China-based striker seeming to have rediscovered his scoring touch. The Super Eagles coach will also hope that his side’s defence, which has proved a source of worry, will enjoy better protection by hard-working midfielders, Wilfred Ndidi and Oghenekaro Etebo. The Super Eagles can also count on midfielders Alex Iwobi and defender Ola Aina to provide attacking spark.

The Bafana Bafana look very capable of ending the Super Eagles’ dream of adding to their three AFCON victories. The 1996 winners will take inspiration from the staggering counter-attacking performance against Egypt and their main offensive weapons, Percy Tau and Thembinkosi Lorch, the 2018/2019 ABSA Premiership Best Player. Both players showed how much menace they are capable of against the Pharaohs of Egypt.

Coach Stuart Baxter can also depend on Lebo Mothiba, who has been a source of irritation to defenders since the tournament began, the creativity of Bongani Zungu and the reliability of Dean Furman in midfield.

All the matches of AFCON 2019 are available to DStv subscribers on Premium, Compact Plus, Compact and Family packages, while selected matches will be available to DStv Access subscribers. On GOtv, the matches are available to subscribers on GOtv Max and GOtv Plus packages.

Once upon a time, around two decades ago, you had to seek the services of a local travel agent to research and book a trip on your behalf regardless of whether it is domestic or international.

With the debut of the internet, booking travel became seamless as online travel agencies started to leverage the internet to make travel seamless for millions of Nigerians. So, nowadays, travellers have many options available to them to help choose destinations, compare prices and make reservations independently and easily. 

The undeniable fact is that online travel agencies have changed and disrupted the way we travel. Jumia’s travel and flight marketplace, Jumia Travelis one of the few OTAs that are playing a huge role in making travel smooth for Nigerians. 

By booking hotels for Nigerians at any time of the day, Jumia Travel eliminates the stress of scouting for hotels. Today, Jumia Travel has expanded to flight, packages, airport pickups and even cruises. The aim is to become an all-in-one travel agency. So, how is an OTA like Jumia Travel changing the travel experience of Nigerians?

Democratise travel

For some Nigerians, the reason why they do not travel is that they think travel is expensive, which is not always the case. However, with an OTA like Jumia Travel, every Nigerian has a better chance of travelling. This is because unlike other OTAs, Jumia Travel has one of the best available rates you can ever find on the internet. Hence, whether you have a huge amount in your account or not, you can still travel comfortably.

Take the stress off travel bookings

Travel planning can be overwhelming, especially if it is group travel. You have to put together a bucket list of destinations to visit and even book hotels you do not know anything about. If you get this wrong, it can make or mar the travel experience. This is where online travel agencies come into play. All over Nigeria, they have hotels on their platform; you simply reach out to your preferred OTA, for example, Jumia Travel and their travel advisors will recommend fantastic hotels you and your group can stay anywhere in Nigeria. This is, of course, at the best price.

Enhanced customer service

Customer service and satisfaction have also transformed the travel experience of Nigerians. The travel advisors of Jumia Travel help customers make informed decisions. Also, the vast majority of brands have a social media presence that is being used to make customers aware of the best packages and deals. And when necessary, to provide relevant information to help unsatisfied or confused customers.

Travel research transformed

One of the most profound effects that OTAs has had on travel in Nigeria is the democratization of online reviews. Today’s travellers go online to research their future travel destinations and accommodations. When booking travel, a good number of Nigerians plan travel activities based on the content posted by their peers online. Hence, travel agencies do everything in their power to ensure they get positive reviews by offering sterling services.

Leaders of Egbe Omo Usi, the apex socio-cultural organization in Usi-Ekiti on Monday visited the Director General, Ekiti state Council for Arts and Culture Ambassador Wale Ojo Lanre to officially congratulate him on his appointment by Dr. Kayode Fayemi and seek government collaboration on USI-Day celebration 2019

The team led by the National President Engineer Debo Ayorinde, Vice president Mrs Bunmi Awopetu VP 1 and Mr Ajayi Mathew VP 2 said Ojo Lanre is a good ambassador of the historical community who they are proud of.

Cbief Ayorinde said Ojo Lanre is one of the pride of Usi, he distinguished himself in his chosen carrier as a journalist and his contributions to the community cannot be underestimated

Corroborating Ayorinde, Mrs Bunmi Awopetu, VP, said the entire people of Usi-Ekiti appreciated Wale Ojo Lanre’s effort and expressed optimism that he would not betray the confidence reposed in him as the face of USI community in the government.

Speaking on the 2019 Usi Day, Awopetu said another reasons for coming here is to resuscitate the existing relationship between the Council for Arts and Culture and the USI in rebranding the festival and to attract more tourists and development to the community

‘The annual event which started 38 years ago was initiated to promote unity among the indigenes and showcase the cultural heritage of the town” She added.

Mr Banji Adelusi, Director of Culture while speaking on behalf of the council’s management said ,Wale Ojo Lanre’s activities since he resumed as the Director General has reflected that USI community is a place where we have dominance of brilliant, educated and cosmopolitan people.

He said further that part of the council’s job is to rebrand and promote cultural festival to projects Ekiti culture and traditional heritage as well as enhancing promoting the economy of the state, He however assured them that the government would give them necessary support at ensuring a successful celebration of USI day 2019.

Wale Ojo Lanre, in his short remarks appreciated the Leadership of Egbe Omo Usi for the visitation and commendation “ I am passionate about the development of Usi, and I will do everything to defend, promote the community that shaped my elementary. I have been involved in so many things about USI development and I will not relent in my efforts.” He concluded.Programmes lined up for the one week event include, Miss Usi beauty pageant, traditional and cultural event, carnival and grand finale to be held on Saturday 3rd August 2019.

photo caption. from left  Engineer Debo Ayorinde, president Egbe Omo Usi, Ambassador Wale Ojo Lanre, Director General, Council for Arts and Culture , Mrs Bunmi Awopetu VP 1 and Mr Ajayi Mathew VP 2  during the visit to Wale Ojo Lanre at the government secretariat in Ad Ekiti

Nigerian celebrity pastor, Abiodun Fatoyinbo, may have become public enemy number one over the last two weeks, losing thousands of admirers and subscribers on his social media platforms after being accused of rape in a brief video interview by a former female member of his church, Busola Dakolo.

Fatoyinbo, the founder of Commonwealth of Zion Assembly, popularly known as COZA, and nicknamed ‘Gucci Pastor’, for his taste for expensive jewelries, clothes and ostentatious lifestyle, was accused by Busola, wife of a musician, Timi Dakolo, of raping her twice while she was 17 years old living with her mother in Abuja.

Relatively an anonymous Church leader until about six years when news broke about his alleged amorous affairs with two of his church’s female members, Ms. Ese Walter and one Franca. While Ese confessed she had ‘consensual sex’ with him for about one week in a London hotel, Franca claimed she escaped the attempt to lure her to sleep with Fatoyinbo allegedly at Wheatbaker Hotel in Lagos.

While Fatoyinbo became well known for his social media grandeur posturing, attracting huge following, related scandals and seeming weirdness are reversing his popularity among social media fans.

A study of COZA church and Pastor Fatoyinbo’s Facebook, Istagram and Twitter pages revealed how within two weeks that the story of the alleged rape broke, the hitherto massive traffic had scaled back drastically. In the hours following Busola’s interview, this reporter observed that enormous comments previously celebrating Pastor Fatoyinbo had begun to plummet.

Although, the embattled pastor announced his temporary resignation from the church leadership following the protests that trailed the scandalous news, Nigerians, mostly protesters from within his ministry, called that COZA be shut down temporarily. The protesters’ demand was buoyed by the shocking revelation by yet another former female member that the COZA pastor raped her.

In a social media interview, the unnamed victim, called X, said she joined the church in 2009 and steadily grew close to Fatoyinbo’s wife, Modele, and the family’s children. She alleged that Modele groomed her for her husband by giving her access to the family by making her feel special.

She accepted Modele’s offer to take care of their children as a legal guardian in a city abroad, a job that also required her to work closely with Fatoyinbo who visited regularly to minister to his congregation there.

When the alleged rape happened, she was in a meeting with Fatoyinbo at his residence discussing church business.

She said he left his seat and joined her on the couch she was sitting and then attempted to hug and kiss her despite her protests, actions she found shocking.

X said Fatoyinbo ignored her protest and went on to take off her navy blue jean trouser.

“He started to take that off. I remember trying to fight off. I kept on asking him to stop but he just kept on going. 

“He had taken off my button and my zipper was down. And then he had one hand holding me back to the couch and another hand right up in my pant. 

“I think at that point, I pretty much just knew what was about to happen,” she said.

She said Fatoyinbo simply kept saying “Just relax” to all of her protests as he went on to rape her.

“He took off his pants and did what he wanted to,” she said.

She noted that she wasn’t shouting during the incident, but that she was crying and blamed herself for putting herself in that situation.

X further said Fatoyinbo apologised profusely after the alleged rape, and then sent her home.

“I didn’t go there to have sex with him. I didn’t ask to have sex with him. I told him to stop on countless occasions. There was no consent. I didn’t give my consent. I didn’t come on to him. I never saw him as anything other than a pastor and a mentor,” said the lady who claimed she worked in the church until 2018.

-Biodun Fariogun

The 2019 edition of Mykmary Fashion Show is set to hold. The event billed to take place on Saturday, 31st of August 2019 at Sweet Sensation Banquet Hall, Opebi roundabout, Ikeja, Lagos, according to a statement made available by the organizers, will see fashion designers coming together to show their latest collections on the runway.

The show aimed to promote Nigerian fashion brands will see young and creative fashion designers to showcase their designs, the statement said.

“The aim of Mykmary Fashion Show (MMFS) 2019 is to give adequate exposure to Nigerian fashion designers, create a networking channel between the established fashion designers, fashion journalists and
enthusiasts, trend setters and of course consumers.

We are calling on Nigeria fashion designers, fashion accessories dealers, bead makers, organic beauty product dealer, hand made bag dealers, footwear dealers among others to book their slot for Mykmary Fashion Show 2019, the statement adds.

The organizers stated that Mykmary Fashion Show was designed to promote Nigerian fashion brands to the world at large via Lagos which is the hub of the Nigerian fashion industry’s creative process with large economic values.

“We promote brands that focuses on Nigeria fashion content. We are known for what we know how to do best leading to the right channel,” the statement says, adding that “because there is a huge global demand for the Nigeria fashion brands, and being the largest population in Africa, Mykmary Fashion was conceived and created, to aid its fast-growing economy towards attracting exporters and investors from all over the world.”

Interested participants can register online via;

www.mykmary.com/register

–Rahman Is’mail

.

Music star, Simisola Ogunleye aka Simi has called for better protection of Nigerian women and girls from physical abuse and rape.

In an emotional post last week, Simi decried the lack of safety for women in Nigeria and the lack of action from family and society when they are assaulted.

She wrote @simplysimi on Instagram,

“Women, even little girls are not safe in this country. First, there is oppression, abuse.

“When something does happen to you, nobody fights for you. The family says ‘Protect our name’, the church says ‘touch not my anointed’.

“The government just does not give. So men, please when people are fighting for women, say they are feminists and want equality rights for women, I hope you remember how unprotected they are and fight with them.

“Women, when you see another woman fighting for you and your rights, if you don’t like the approach because you think everything is all about submission.

“Your life is constantly at stake, if it hasn’t touched you yet, count your blessings. Open your eyes, the world does not favour you. Fight back.

“As for these animals, you can only slap and rape for so long. One by one, judgement will find you and drag you down. I know men go through sexual assault too!

“I acknowledge it but women and children are more vulnerable. Let’s fight for and protect the most vulnerable in the society,”

Simi said.

Her statement comes on the heels of two high profile alleged abuses, among others that have flooded social media in the last couple of days.

An online savings platform, Moneybag.ng has been launched for adoption by Nigerians.

The financial product, which was created by Nuture Technology Services Limited, an indigenous technology firm based in Lagos is a savings platform that has been described as simple, fast, convenient and transparent.

The product which was unveiled to the media on the 8th of July 2019 at D’Podium International Event Centre, Ikeja in Lagos also witnessed the unveiling of Omololu Somuyiwa as Moneybag.ng’s brand ambassador. “Lolu” as he is popularly known rose to stardom from participating at the 2018 edition of the Big Brother Nigeria (BBN) TV reality show.

According to the Chief Executive Officer of Nuture Technology, Mr Uchenna Okezie, “saving is an activity that is crucial to the financial independence of any individual and with Moneybag.ng, we have created a customised savings solution that is flexible for everyday use and transparent for comprehension”.

Moneybag.ng is an online financial services platform that can be used by anyone regardless of age or profession with features such as savings, investments (“Baglocker” which helps you lock away funds for a set period with 9-13.5% per annum interest) and loans. It also has a lifestyle feature known as “Cliquebag” designed to help friends save together. Okezie further stated that the company’s goal is to add value to the savings culture of the Nigerian society since so many people find it difficult to save for different reasons.

In his remarks, The Chief Operating officer of the company, Mr. Lanre Fadayomi made it clear that low inclusivity and limited user-friendly financial service options were identified as the main difficulties why people found it hard to save and that this was a critical motivating factor when Nuture
Technology decided to create an easy way people could save regardless of their age, background or qualification.

Fadayomi also said, “Majority of what we do is transaction based so it required us to be customer centric with the types of savings plans Moneybag.ng offers.

We also had to focus on a user experience that was easy to understand and interact with the needs of our customers while looking for ways to help customers better appreciate the product. We then infused lifestyle, investments and discipline in saving to help get customers interacting with the product.”

In its efforts to creating Moneybag.ng, Nuture Technologies partnered with some giants of the financial sector towards ensuring a full integration for Moneybag.ng across the various financial services.

The list of partners
includes, Interswitch, GTbank, First Bank’s FBN General Insurance, Moneyline, Primera Micro-Finance and others. The launch event which held on Monday the 8th of July 2019 at the D’Podium International Event Centre in Lagos also witnessed the unveiling of former Big Brother Nigeria 2018 Housemate, Omololu Somuyiwa as Moneybag.ng’s brand ambassador.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday visited victims of the recent Ijegun pipeline fire incident who are receiving treatment at the Trauma and Burns Unit of the Gbagada General Hospital.

The Governor, in company of his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, sympathised with families of the victims and also appraised recuperation of the survivors.

The Governor took time to go round the three wards where some of the victims were receiving treatment for various degrees of injuries.

Among the survivors are three children and four adults.

While describing the incident as unfortunate, Governor Sanwo-Olu bemoaned criminal activities around oil pipeline right of ways in the state, stressing that the State Government would cooperate with the Federal Government to strengthen security patrol of the vulnerable areas to protect the lives of residents.

He said: “We are here to check on the survivors, who are receiving treatment and assess their healing process. Although, we had a few fatalities, there are many survivors with different degrees of burn. They are responding well to treatment. I spoke with them and assured that government will do everything to ensure they get well.

 “This kind of unfortunate incident must be a lesson for all of us. We cannot continue to witness loss of lives to this kind of preventable crimes. Those who are bent on making illegal wealth at the expense of other people’s lives should have a rethink.”

Sanwo-Olu warned those engaging in pipeline vandalism to desist, saying full wrath of the law would be brought against economic saboteurs.

The Governor cleared the air on why he did not visit the scene of the fire incident.

He said: The issue of pipeline vandalism is a criminal issue being dealt with by the Federal Government. For us in the state, my deputy and I did not visit the site of the incident, because we didn’t want to make a camera show at the scene. This is not because we don’t have empathy or we are not doing what is required of us; it is a crime scene and security operatives are at the site for investigation. We don’t want to disrupt that process.”

Sanwo-Olu said the government had resolved to foot the bills of the survivors who are receiving treatment at the state’s medical facilities in Ikeja and Gbagada.

The Governor also used the opportunity to inspect the abandoned cardiac and renal Centre located inside the Gbagada General Hospital to inspect the state of the health facility.

The 7th anniversary and special Ileya promo of Adron Homes has began with an unbelievable offer where New Clients enjoy 30% discount on all estates and Existing Clients enjoy 50% discounts on initial or additional purchase of two plots of land. 

However, 10% is general discounts on ‘Ileya Classic’ for all customers interested in all their lands and estates.

Unveiling the promo at the Omole Phase 1, Ojodu, Lagos office on Tuesday, with their brand ambassadors, Adebayo Salami, aka Oga Bello,  Yinka Ayefele, Saheed Balogun, Sodiq Ayeloyun, Saoty Arewa who are popular inslamic singers, the promo which has since started will run till July 30, 2019.

Adron Homes is wooing both their customers and potential ones to come enjoy this massive offer and also win fabulous prices on all their lands in Ibeju-Lekki, Shinmawa, Atan-Ota, Ikorodu, Badagry,  Shagamu, Abeokuta, Ibadan,  Abuja, Nasarawa and others.

CEO of Adron Homes and Properties, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, who was represented at the event by the GCRO, Fola Oloruntoba said, “this ileya festival classic is in celebration of the massive success and achievement of Adron Homes for the past 7 years. We are calling on everyone to come own a home at an incredibly attractive, amazing and affordable prices which will equally be spread over a period of 24 months.” 

This promo is for everyone. We are encouraging all to partake in it and also win fabulous and exciting prizes going from litres of vegetable oil to bags of rice to a cow sized ram and home appliances just to make both our customers and the new clients happy in this season.”

Speaking at the event, one of the brand ambassadors of Adron Homes, Alhaji Adebayo Salami, aka Oga Bello, said he joined the company because of its mandate at making the incredible affordable. He said,  there are no property company that can be compare with Adron when it comes to fulfilling promises made. He enjoined Nigerians home and abroad to take advantage of this massive promo and become a landlord.

Also speaking, popular Tungba crooner, Yinka Ayefele, said, “it is better to align with people who will not promise and fail. Adron Homes has shown that they are capable and that is why I have also bought a land from them in Ibadan.”

Wave making singer, ‘Daniel Ojo ‘Danny S’ Olaborode, has released the video of his hit song, ‘Waka Jeje’ featuring Olamide.

The acclaimed Iju Ishaga lion star, dropped the snippet of the video and since then the airwaves have been agog.

In the video, directed by Abula with a special appearance of Instagram sensation fame, Taaooma, Olamide and Danny S performed wonderfully.

The video which was shot at Unlimited L A Chroma Studio, Mangoro Estate, Lagos, saw lots of stars assembled to feature in it.

Speaking, Danny S said; “I give God the glory. It was not an easy task at all. ‘Waka Jeje’ idea was developed after some brainstorming. To be innovative in the music industry takes lots of researches and time. I have always wanted to create my own style. I appreciate everyone who helped to make this video a success. Big thanks to my mentor, Olamide Baddosneh, he contributed a lot on this project.

I implore my fans to keep supporting me. Without you, Danny S is nobody”.

It would be recalled that Danny S came into the limelight with the hit single, ‘Off The Light’. He released a follow up hit single, ‘Ege’, followed by other coupleof songs like ‘Japa’, Freestyle and others to remain on top of his game.

-Tijani Adegbola

Ecobank Nigeria has said it did not disengage staff.

The bank, in a statement, said it decided not to renew the contract of its third party recruitment agencies which expired recently and as such returned this category of personnel back to these agencies who are their employers.

According to the statement, as a demonstration of the its concern and compassion for the affected personnel of our contractors, palliative measures were put in place by the Bank to cushion the effect on them: These include payment of contract cessation packages of over half a billion Naira already paid through their employers as well as opportunity given to those with requisite qualification to apply to the Bank for permanent employment.

In addition, the Bank said it has offered them the opportunity to become Xpress point agents of Ecobank as a way of further providing them entrepreneurial and financial empowerment.

“May we state that Ecobank is not obligated to renew its contract with the service providers involved.

As part of the Bank’s business strategy, the bank is investing in the employment of full time graduates and as such over 300 graduates are currently undergoing training at the Bank’s state of the art Academy which was recently accredited by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. They are to be absorbed into the system at the end their training as permanent staff.

The Bank would continue to align its people composition, development, recognition and rewards to position us as best practice service model in the industry, delivering superior customer service and experience across our network,” the statement reads.

President Muhammadu Buhari congratulates the Super Eagles for another spectacular outing that has confirmed Nigeria’s progress to the Next Level in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Egypt 2019.

With a well-deserved victory over the Bafana Bafana of South Africa, President Buhari believes, like millions of other sports-loving Nigerians, that the mission of having the trophy in our hands for the fourth time is almost accomplished for the high flying Eagles.

The President urges the team and their handlers to remain focused, disciplined and scale the remaining two hurdles to glory.

He affirms that the crop of players in the national football team represent the resilient and indomitable Nigerian spirit, which must be reflected in all other areas of national life.

President Buhari assures the players that Nigerians are praying for them to fly higher and get to the peak of the tournament, knowing that the taste of victory is sweet and what they have achieved so far is pleasing to Nigerians irrespective of ethnic, religious or political inclination.

The Managing Director of Jumia Travel, Omolara Adagunodo, has urged Nigerian employees to embrace organizational awareness in order to guarantee personal and career growth. 

Adagunodo made this call at the first edition of the Young Manager’s Summit organised by the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) (Chartered) held recently at the Management House, Idowu Taylor Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.  

Presenting on the topic: ‘Harnessing the Power of Organizational Awareness’, Adagunodo stated that organizational awareness is about employees having a holistic understanding of their organization from top to bottom, and being aware of the external forces that impact their organization.

“Today, we have a lot of employees with an indifferent approach to the happenings at their place of work. But as employees and young managers, you have to show inquisitiveness and curiosity, identify influencers and get to know them and how they operate, go the extra mile, work hard, play hard, dig deep and fly high. Have informal conversations with co-workers and get their perspectives on how things get achieved,” Adagunodo said.

On the benefits of being organizationally aware, she highlighted that it helps to improve staffing decisions, promotes team building, communication, culture and leadership effectiveness. It also ensures that managers understand the strengths and weaknesses of all employees and give them an opportunity to think outside the box and learn new things.

In his opening remarks, the Director, Capacity Building, NIM, Mr Jude Iheanacho MNIM, FCA said: “The aim of the Young Manager’s Summit is to refocus attention on young Nigerians who aim to become future managers in their various fields of endeavours and equipping them with the right knowledge and mindset.” 

Iheanacho reiterated the NIM’s commitment to nurturing the development and growth of young managers reeling out initiatives such as the NIM-NYSC partnership that allows corp members to be graduate members of the NIM and the Young Managers’ Competition to celebrate young competent managers among other initiatives. 

Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has declared toll free for motorists going and coming out of Lekki axis during rush hours on Thursday.

The Governor declared a toll-free passage at the toll plaza on Lekki-Epe Expressway and the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge between 6:30am and 9:30am in the morning, and also at the peak period in the evening (4:30pm to 8pm).

The Governor disclosed this during a tour that followed a stakeholders’ meeting on regeneration of the Lekki-Oniru and parts of the Victoria Island as solution to the perennial traffic gridlock and flooding issues around the Lekki and Ajah areas.

The objective, according to Governor Sanwo-Olu is to allow traffic consultants to the government carry out a comprehensive study of traffic flow around Lekki-Ikoyi-Victoria Island axes, which is part of the initiatives the government is bringing to diffuse vehicular gridlock in major Business Districts in the state.

The cost of the toll fees for the study period will be borne by the government, Sanwo-Olu said.

The Governor said: “Tomorrow being Thursday, the toll plazas on the Ikoyi Link Bridge and Lekki-Epe Expressway will be left open between 6:30am and 9:30am in the morning and also between 4:30pm and 8:00pm in the evening. This is to allow us to do a real simulation of traffic study in these areas that usually witness high density of vehicular movement daily.

We are currently undertaking a traffic study with our experts and we want to know where the traffic goes to when the tollgates are left open for steady movement. It is only when we do this activity at the peak hour that we will be able to understand how to deal with congestion in these places.”

Sanwo-Olu said the undertaking was necessary for the government to take actions that would lead to reduction of traffic on the axes by 50 per cent. The resultant effect, he said, would lead to decrease in travel time and improved productivity.

“Our government wants to bring about a quick journey time through our traffic solution. The way we want to do it is to have an online real-time study of what the issues are. We are going to analyze the dimension of observed challenges and discuss next steps of solution we are bringing,” the Governor said.

As part of the measures being initiated to achieve free flow of traffic, Sanwo-Olu hinted that the mode of toll collection at the Ikoyi-Link Bridge would completely go electronic, disclosing that a new method of payment would take off in October. The Governor urged motorists plying the route to apply ahead for electronic access cards at Lagos Tolling Company in compliance with the new service.

He said: “In October, the partners that we are working with will introduce a software that will allow electronic collection of toll fees. This means that motorists will not be paying cash. The process to implement this is on, and we will come up with a seamless electronic solution. We are giving three months notice to residents and motorists to prepare ahead. By the time this is done, we believe some of the bottlenecks in and around Ikoyi would be reduce and we are hoping there would be free flow of traffic.”

He added that the size of the roundabout at the Admiralty road would be reduced for the purpose of traffic diffusion.

The Governor also visited the scene of last week Monday flood in Abraham Adesanya Junction to inspect the cause of the clogged drainage in the area. Sanwo-Olu said Office of the Drainage Services had been given a task to ensure free flow of water in the clogged drainages and canals in Ajah area.

He said: “Our stop at Abraham Adesanya Junction in Ajah area was to take necessary assessment of the condition of drainage in the area. We have identified things we need to do to have free flow of water from the area to the lagoon. We are also looking at reduction of the size of the roundabout there. We are coming out with a comprehensive traffic and drainage solutions at the Abraham Adesanya area.

“We have had several complaints about how long it takes people moving around Ajah Bus Stop. We are going to push a major layby, where we can take commercial vehicles off the road. We have realized that commercial vehicles are the major cause of traffic at the spot. We are going to push the layby there and cut it off, so that motorists moving inward to Victoria Island can have an easy way. We are looking at both lanes to reduce journey time.”

Joining the governor in the tour included the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Folashade Jaji, Head of Service, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola, and Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Gboyega Soyannwo, among others.

There were strong indications last night that between 12 and 15 ex-ministers will join President Muhammadu Buhari’s cabinet.

It was learnt that the ex-ministers’ names are on the list which was reportedly submitted to Senate President Ahmed  Lawan on Wednesday.

But there was still a pall of uncertainty on the size of the cabinet.

The President has the constitutional right to have a 36-man or a 42-man cabinet.

The President is said to have decided to retain some of the ex-ministers on merit.

Those speculated to be on the list last night are ex-Ministers of Justice and AGF Abubakar Malami ( SAN); Adamu Adamu( Education); Hadi Sirika ( Aviation); Zainab Ahmed (Finance); Aisha Abubakar (Women Affairs); Lai Mohammed ( Information); Babatunde Fashola (Works, Power and Housing); Rotimi Amaechi (Transportation); Mohammed Musa Bello( FCT); Suleiman Adamu Kazaure (Water Resources); Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu (Science & Technology); Solomon Dalung (Sports & Youths Development) and others.

Although Dr. Ibe Kachikwu, former governors Rauf Aregbesola (Osun), Niyi Adebayo (Ekiti) and Akinwumi Ambode (Lagos) were also being speculated last night to have made the list, none of our sources could confirm such speculations.

The sources confirmed that some ex-ministers, such as Adebayo Shittu (Communications) and Okechukwu Enelamah (Trade and Industry) lost the battle to return to the cabinet.

A government source said: “I know that the two women ex-ministers are returning to the cabinet. We have a few others who have really added value that the President will be retaining.

“It is not a total overhaul, which you are anticipating. What the President promised was to leave sustainable legacies in his second term.”

Another source said: “I think the list is already with the Senate President and some officers but they said it will not be made public until Thursday.”

A source in the Presidency simply said: “All things being equal, the Senate will receive the list on Thursday morning. “

It was uncertain whether or not the President will retain the 36- member cabinet in his first term or expand it.

Section 147(1-3), provides that the President should have no fewer than 36 ministers at one per state.

The section reads:   “There shall be such offices of Ministers of the Government of the Federation as may be established by the President.

“Any appointment to the office of Minister of the Government of the Federation shall, if the nomination of any person to such office is confirmed by the Senate, be made by the President.

“Any appointment under Subsection (2) of this section by the President shall be in conformity with the provisions of Section 14(3) of this Constitution:

”Provided that in giving effect to the Provisions aforesaid the President shall appoint at least one Minister from each state, who shall be an indigene of such state.”

Lawan confirmed on Wednesday that the list of ministers will be out this week.

President Buhari had promised to appoint into his cabinet those who would help him to implement his “Next Level” programmes.

Lawan spoke during plenary on Wednesday, following a Point of Order by Senator Albert Bassey Akpan (Akwa Ibom Northeast).

Akpan, who spoke under personal explanation, prayed the Senate to mount pressure on Buhari to transmit the list to the chamber.

The senator reminded his colleagues that the Senate would embark on its annual recess within the next two weeks.

He stressed the need for Buhari to transmit the list before the recess.

Akpan said: “Mr. President, in view of the yearly long recess the Senate and the House of Representatives will embark upon in two weeks, there is need to urge President Muhammadu Buhari to forward the much expected ministerial list to the Senate for screening and confirmation.

“This is very important because if such list is not made available for the required legislative attention before we embark on the long recess, there will be no ministers and, by extension, the federal cabinet for the President to work with till September.

“Making the list more urgent now from the President before our long recess, is the fact that if it is not made available, the concerted effort being made by both arms of government to return to the yearly budget cycle of January to December will be defeated.

“On this note, I call on the President of the Senate to inform President Muhammadu Buhari of the need for the ministerial list before we embark on recess.”

Lawan said: “Let me, on the strength of this motion, inform the Senate that the Executive arm of government is working very hard on the ministerial list.

“In fact, the list, based on information at my disposal, will be forwarded to us by the President before the end of this week.

“May I, therefore, appeal to us all to be ready to make the necessary sacrifice in terms of sufficient time to be spent in carrying out thorough screening and confirmation of appointments of the expected ministerial nominees.”

-The Nation

Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has hinted that pump price of premium motor spirit (PMS) may be increased soon, as it described the N145 pump price as the cheapest in West Africa.

The new Group Managing Director (GMD), Mele Kyari, stated this yesterday during a visit to Senate President Ahmed Lawan at the National Assembly complex, Abuja.

Kyari spoke while making submissions on revenue generation before the leadership of the senate.

He identified cheap fuel price and smuggling as the two key factors hampering revenue generation by the agency.

“The N145 per litre fuel price regime in Nigeria runs against the N350 per litre most of the other West African countries operate, encouraging smuggling.

“It is even very difficult for us to make the product available at N145,” said he.

NNPC also said it would lobby the National Assembly to ensure speedy passage of laws relating to the oil and gas industry to enhance performance.

The corporation stated that the move would ensure the emplacement of an enabling legal framework for the growth of the oil and gas sector.

Immediate past GMD, Dr. Maikanti Baru, who was at the meeting, said a visit to the senate president was part of the programmes planned for the period of transition but was not realised due to exigencies.

Baru stressed that he considered it necessary to still visit, even after the formal handover, considering the good relations he enjoyed with Lawal.

He stated that beyond introducing his successor, the visit was meant to canvass the senate’s support for the quick passage of the Deep Offshore Amendment Bill, which could boost the government’s revenue with about $5 billion per annum.