Author: Editor Francis

 Adams Oshiomhole, the former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has shed light on the circumstances leading to his removal from office, attributing it to the actions of some governors, including Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti and Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State. Oshiomhole made these revelations during the launch of the book “APC and Transition Politics” written by Salihu Lukman, a former national vice chairman (North-west) of the party, at the Shehu Yar’Adua Center in Abuja on Tuesday. Speaking at the event, Oshiomhole accused the author and certain governors of spearheading the campaign that resulted in his “illegal” removal…

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Standard Chartered Plc is selling its consumer-banking business unit in the Ivory Coast to West African lender Coris Bank International SA as it completes plans to streamline businesses in the Africa and Middle East.Bloomberg reports The European lender did not disclose what proceeds it will receive from the sale, which is expected to be completed in the next few months and is subject to regulatory approval. Standard Chartered has divested units across Africa since April 2022, with the stated goal of reducing complexity and driving scale. It has sold businesses in Zimbabwe, Lebanon, Angola, Cameroon, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Jordan and…

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In a pivotal meeting at the State House in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu assured the global investment community of his administration’s commitment to maintaining Nigeria’s prominence as a preferred destination for both onshore and offshore projects. During discussions with Mr. Patrick Pouyanne, Group Chairman and CEO of Total Energies Worldwide, President Tinubu stated, “The moment I took over, there was a clear path that we set out to pursue, and we will ensure that Nigeria remains a top-level investment choice in the dynamics of the offshore and onshore sectors.” President Tinubu outlined the government’s focus on promoting gas production in…

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Concerning governance, there is never any moment too early, nor demand too drastic in calling for the overhaul of security agencies where their activities intrude on the fundamental rights of the citizen. The practice of citizen detention at the whim of either religious blackmail or secular arrogation demands curtailment at source, most especially when exercised in defiance of the law, and the pronouncements of its agencies. Anything less goes to remind us that anarchy remains a choice for citizen recourse, with unpredictable consequences. The immediate provocation for these reflections is ongoing predicament of a former Minister of Power, Dr. Olu…

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In observance of International Migrants Day, U.S. Secretary of State Anthony J. Blinken issued a press statement underscoring the importance of recognizing and supporting the hundreds of millions of migrants living outside their home countries. The United States, committed to leading global efforts, emphasizes the need for countries to expand lawful pathways, protect vulnerable migrants, promote inclusion, and implement policies fostering safe, orderly, and humane migration. Highlighting the significant role played by the United States, Secretary Blinken noted the country’s leadership in the largest expansion of lawful migration pathways in decades. This initiative aims to assist vulnerable migrants, refugees, and…

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The acting national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, has unequivocally stated that the party is prepared to demonstrate to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike, that he is not above the party. Addressing questions at a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Damagum emphasized that individuals engaging in anti-party actions, including Wike, would face consequences from the party leadership in due course. This declaration follows criticism from various PDP stakeholders who accused Wike and others of involvement in anti-party activities during the recently concluded general elections, urging Damagum…

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In a joint statement released today, several governments, including the United States, Canada, the European Union and its Member States, Japan, and the United Kingdom, expressed their unified support for the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in addressing the challenges and opportunities associated with Higher Airspace Operations (HAO). The statement underscores the increasing demand for common rules to facilitate the safe, secure, and sustainable development of civil aviation operations in higher airspace, beyond the current regulated limits of conventional aircraft operations. With emerging technology and engineering breakthroughs, the need for a comprehensive vision for HAO has become crucial. Higher airspace…

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In commemoration of the one-year anniversary of the U.S.-Africa Leaders’ Summit, the U.S. African Development Foundation (USADF) proudly announces substantial advancements in fulfilling the commitments established during the Summit. In a collaboration with the Government of Namibia, USADF recently concluded the application process for the inaugural round of funding, amounting to an impressive $10 million over five years. This partnership is poised to provide grants aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), with a special focus on women and youth. The initiative is designed to stimulate sustainable development in the rural economy of northern Namibia. Over…

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In a significant development, Vice President Kashim Shettima’s Tuesday announcement marks a pivotal stride towards fulfilling the commitment made six months ago. Assuring Nigerian small business owners under the Tinubu-led administration, Shettima reiterated the government’s dedication to expediting access to single-digit loans in the most efficient manner. The assurance, initially conveyed on June 27, 2023, during the World Micro Small and Medium Enterprises Day, emphasized the administration’s recognition of the crucial role played by Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in propelling economic growth, job creation, and fostering innovation. Vice President Shettima underscored the government’s proactive stance, vowing to provide…

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This Christmas, leave the crowded malls behind and embrace the spark of joy that comes with stress-free shopping at SPAR Nigeria. As the festive season approaches, SPAR Nigeria invites shoppers to indulge in a hassle-free shopping experience, avoiding the stress of crowded malls. Renowned as the leading chain of hypermarkets in the country, SPAR takes pride in offering customers unparalleled selection, value, and convenience all under one roof. Boasting multiple spacious retail locations nationwide, SPAR ensures an abundance of goods catering to diverse shopping needs. From freshly baked breads and pastries to a curated selection of fine wines and spirits,…

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 Claudette, the older sister of renowned Canadian singer Celine Dion, has shared distressing news about the artist’s health. Reportedly, Celine is grappling with stiff person syndrome, a progressive and incurable neurological disorder that has left her without control over her muscles. Following the cancellation of her world tour in December, Claudette, 74, expressed concerns about Celine’s return to the stage, emphasizing the challenges posed by the debilitating condition. Stiff person syndrome triggers the body to attack its nerve cells, severely affecting mobility. Speaking to Daily Mail on Monday, Claudette shared, “She works hard, but she has no control over her…

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 Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has won a landslide victory to secure a third term in office, taking 89.6% of votes in an election featuring no serious opposition. The National Election Authority announced the overwhelming win on Monday following three days of voting last week. Turnout reached 66.8%, higher than the 41% in the 2018 election. Some voters said the conflict in neighboring Gaza encouraged them to vote for Sisi, seen as a source of stability in the volatile region. In his victory speech, Sisi described the election result as a rejection by Egyptians of the “inhumane war” between Israel…

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