Vice President Kashim Shettima has embarked on a journey from Abuja to Dallas, United States, where he will stand in for President Bola Tinubu at the 2024 US-Africa Business Summit. Organised by the Corporate Council on Africa, the summit is set to convene at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Centre in Dallas, Texas. In a statement released by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, it was disclosed that Vice President Shettima will join a distinguished gathering of political and business leaders from Africa, the United States, and beyond. The summit aims to facilitate high-level…
Author: Editor Francis
The Israeli government, under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has announced plans to shut down Al Jazeera, a Qatar-based news channel, citing concerns over its alleged ties to Hamas, a militant group. Netanyahu described Al Jazeera as the mouthpiece of Hamas and accused its correspondents of harming Israel’s security and inciting against Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) soldiers. The decision was made after a meeting with the security cabinet. Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi echoed Netanyahu’s sentiments, stating that there will be no freedom of speech for Al Jazeera in Israel. Karhi issued an order to seize equipment used by the channel, including…
In a recent address titled “Championing Innovation: Digital Transformation and Economic Diversification in Nigeria,” Engr. James Egerton-Idehen, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT), emphasised the persistent issue of reliable and affordable internet access faced by numerous Nigerians, especially those in rural areas. Delivering this message during the 20th Herbert Macaulay Memorial Lecture and Symposium, organised by the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Faculty of Engineering, Engr. Egerton-Idehen underscored the findings of a 2023 report by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), indicating that only approximately 40% of the population has access to broadband internet.…
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have issued a stern ultimatum to the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), demanding improved power supply across the Southeast region or facing decisive action. In a statement released by IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, the group accused EEDC of exploiting residents through excessive billing practices and a flawed estimated billing system, which they claim has left many communities in the region in darkness. The statement highlights grievances including the imposition of exorbitant electricity bills without corresponding power supply, the absence of prepaid metres, and the disruption of electricity services for non-payment of disputed bills. IPOB…
The Department of State Services (DSS) has taken action against Al-Ihsan clinic in the Ungwan Rogo community of Jos North local government area, Plateau State. The clinic was sealed off following allegations of quackery and the reported death of a patient who underwent treatment there, as reported by Daily Trust. According to sources, a woman passed away in the clinic last week after undergoing surgery allegedly performed by Mr. Lukuma Abdul. This incident has prompted widespread concern, with many questioning Abdul’s medical credentials and specialty. Abdul has refuted the accusations, stating that the surgery did not result in the patient’s…
In a recent development, Russia has included Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in its wanted list, as reported by the state news agency, TASS. The specifics of this listing remain undisclosed, leaving room for speculation about its implications. Responding to this move, Ukraine swiftly dismissed the report, denouncing it as a clear manifestation of Moscow’s “desperation” in the ongoing geopolitical tensions. Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry issued a sharp statement, highlighting that Russian President Vladimir Putin himself is subject to arrest under an International Criminal Court warrant. The Ukrainian ministry emphasised the stark contrast between what it termed as “worthless Russian announcements” and…
Kenneth Omemavwa Gbagi, the Social Democratic Party’s candidate in the last Delta State governorship election and former Minister of Education, has passed away at the age of 62. The renowned criminologist and lawyer died on Saturday, May 4th, 2024. In a statement released by his eldest son, Chief Emuoboh Gbagi, on behalf of the family, they expressed profound sadness but gratitude to God for his life. Gbagi’s contributions as an industrialist and his impact on countless individuals and communities were acknowledged. The family requested thoughts and prayers during this difficult time of loss. May his soul rest in perfect peace.
The recently passed National Youths Service Corps Trust Fund Bill has been hailed as a promising solution to unemployment among graduates, according to Yemi Adaramodu, the chairman of the Senate Committee on Youth and Community Engagement. Adaramodu, representing the APC from Ekiti South, made this assertion during an official visit to the Oyo State NYSC Orientation Camp in Iseyin. Having successfully navigated through the legislative process, with first and second readings completed, the bill is poised for presidential assent. Adaramodu emphasised that its primary aim is to facilitate job opportunities for corps members by leveraging the training provided through the…
In the wake of a recent social media storm, Bidemi Olaoba, a celebrated gospel artist, issued a heartfelt apology to white garment churches, seeking to amend any misunderstandings sparked by a video that stirred controversy online. During a televised interview on ‘Confession Box with PLA’ hosted by Pastor Leke Adeboye, Olaoba expressed his reluctance to perform in churches where incense and perfumes are used, inadvertently causing uproar within the white garment church community. In his public apology, Olaoba underscores his unwavering belief in the universal message of the gospel and extends regrets for any unintended offence resulting from his previous…
As Chad goes to the polls on Monday to vote for a new president, voters are eager to do battle with the old regime. Indeed, the country has not held a presidential election since the death of former leader, Idriss Deby Itno, who ruled the country for three decades. “We have come a long way, we’re ready and well prepared. So, even if we have to go out and vote today, we’re ready for it,” says Ndjamena resident, Innocent Kouldegue. The National Election Management Authority (ANGE) has banned anyone from filming or taking photos of the results, or from publishing…
Journalist Daniel Ojukwu, employed by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), has been apprehended by the Intelligence Response Team of the Inspector General of Police on allegations of cybercrime. As disclosed by FIJ, Ojukwu vanished on May 1st, with his whereabouts unknown until a private investigator hired by FIJ traced his last phone activity to Isheri Olofin. He was subsequently located at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, in Lagos. Despite efforts by FIJ to file a missing person report, Ojukwu remained incommunicado for three days without access to legal counsel. His detention coincides with World Press Freedom Day, raising…
In response to directives from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), several prominent Nigerian fintech firms, including Opay, Moniepoint, PalmPay, and Paga, have issued warnings to their customers regarding cryptocurrency trading on their platforms. These announcements come amidst a broader regulatory crackdown on the fintech sector in Nigeria. Last week, the CBN mandated major fintech companies such as Kuda, Opay, PalmPay, and Moniepoint to cease onboarding new customers as part of an ongoing audit of their Know-Your-Customer (KYC) processes. This move follows heightened concerns over money laundering and terrorism financing within the fintech space. Prior to the CBN’s intervention, the…