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President Biden Reaffirms Strong Support for Israel Amid Rising Tensions with Iran

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President Joe Biden convened a high-level meeting with his national security team today to receive an update on the escalating situation in the Middle East, particularly regarding Iran’s recent attacks against Israel. The meeting underscored the United States’ unwavering commitment to ensuring Israel’s security in the face of threats posed by Iran and its proxies.

During the briefing, President Biden reaffirmed the ironclad support of the United States for Israel, emphasizing the importance of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the nation in the wake of heightened tensions. The discussions delved into the latest developments in the region, including Iran’s alleged involvement in recent attacks targeting Israeli interests.

 

In a tweet from the president official X page following the meeting, the White House reiterated the administration’s stance on the matter, stating, “The United States stands firmly alongside Israel in the face of aggression from Iran and its proxies. Our commitment to Israel’s security is unwavering, and we will continue to work closely with our allies to address threats to regional stability.”

Tunde Onakoya is Attempting To Break Guinness World Record for the Longest Chess Marathon in 58 Hours

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Nigerian chess master and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, is set to attempt to break the Guinness World record for the longest chess marathon in the heart of New York City’s Times Square. The goal: play chess for 58 hours without a single defeat.

 

His motivation is driven by a mission to empower disadvantaged children. “Doing this for the dreams of millions of children across Africa without access to education,” he declares.

 

Tunde is currently in New York and has been spotted playing chess and winning at events, chess clubs and even on the bustling streets of Times Square.

 

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PRESIDENT TINUBU TO GOVERNORS AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY LEADERSHIP: LET US UNITE TO MAKE NIGERIA GREATER

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STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE

 

PRESIDENT TINUBU TO GOVERNORS AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY LEADERSHIP: LET US UNITE TO MAKE NIGERIA GREATER

 

President Bola Tinubu has called for unity of purpose and more collaboration between the federal government, state governors, and members of the National Assembly to achieve national development goals.

 

The President made the appeal while receiving state governors and the leadership of the National Assembly in Lagos on Friday.

 

Led by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, the delegation included Senate President Godswill Akpabio; the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, among others.

 

Speaking on behalf of the President, Vice-President Shettima expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic resurgence and called for collective efforts to propel the nation forward.

 

He urged unity and collaboration among all stakeholders to achieve shared prosperity and promised a brighter future for the nation under President Tinubu’s guidance.

 

“Let us unite, rally around our leader, and catapult this nation to a greater pedestal. By December, I hope we will have cause to celebrate. Let us coalesce to take the nation to a greater pedestal,” Vice-President Shettima said.

 

Emphasizing President Tinubu’s role as a unifying leader transcending ethnic and religious lines, the Vice-President noted that the gathering of 27 governors in Lagos, along with the leadership of the National Assembly and some former governors, bears the testimony of a detribalized leader who has embraced all.

 

”This gathering cuts across ethnic, religious, and political lines. Here, we have Pastor Eno of Akwa Ibom and Father Hyacinth of Benue, and as the President was seated, he was asking, ‘Where is Wammako, where is Yari’? That is the hallmark of true leadership. What binds us together supersedes whatever it is that may divide us.”

 

”The future of the black man rests on Nigeria to make or mar. Our economy has turned the corner. By the coming months, the economy will roar back to glory,” the Vice-President said.

 

Senate President Akpabio commended the state governors for emulating President Tinubu’s leadership style, characterized by listening to diverse voices and consulting widely with the people, irrespective of political affiliations.

 

“The governors are doing well. I can say so because I have been there before,” Senator Akpabio said.

 

Expressing confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership, Akpabio noted that the President enjoys the broad support of Nigerians across political divides.

 

“As you coast home to victory for a second term, may all the governors seated here also coast home to a second term victory in their states,” Senate President Akpabio prayed.

 

In his remarks, Governor AbdulRazaq expressed support for the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, describing it as a huge project that will have a significant impact on the nation when completed.

 

He commended the President’s efforts in stabilizing the economy and improving living conditions, highlighting the positive developments in the country, which include the stabilization of the exchange rate and decreasing food prices.

 

He attributed these improvements to the President’s initiatives and also lauded the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s funding for 8,800 primary healthcare centres.

 

“We commend your efforts because the ship is gradually turning. We have seen how the exchange rate of the naira against the dollar is coming down. The cost of food is coming down. The dry season harvest is commencing soon. Things are getting better, and there is light at the end of the tunnel,” the Governor said.

 

He urged President Tinubu to persevere in his efforts towards achieving economic stability.

 

The governor also expressed gratitude for the support provided by the Federal Government to states, particularly in distributing grains to alleviate food shortages.

 

”We are here to support you, and we also thank you for the support that you are giving to the sub-nationals. Trucks are wheeling up across the nation, distributing grains. I have received, and most of the states have.

 

”Because of what you are doing, those who are hoarding food items are releasing them, and that is why the prices of food are coming down,” he said.

 

Governor AbdulRazaq reiterated the governors’ commitment to supporting the President’s initiatives and pledged to continue complementing the efforts of the federal government in driving progress and prosperity across the nation.

 

Chief Ajuri Ngelale

 

Special Adviser to the President

 

(Media & Publicity)

 

April 12, 2024

How ISWAP, NJIM, are getting fuel through Kebbi- Niger – Benin and Burkina Faso 

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Large quantities of fuel and other supplies were being loaded from Nigeria’s border in Kebbi State to Dolé Kaina village in Tounouga community and Sabon Birni in Gaya (DOSSO) in Niger Republic on a routine basis

Dole-Kaina, is a border town between Nigeria and Niger Republic runs through one half of the town in Kebbi State of Nigeria, while the other falls into Dosso State of Niger as well as Benin Republic.

 

Terrorists Marchants secretly transport large quantities of Fuel, ammunition, and other logistics to terrorist groups in the Sahel and West African region through these routes. Sometimes, they passed through Benin Republic to get to Kompienga, one of the 45 provinces of Burkina Faso, located in its East Region to supply other terrorist groups.

The Bandit in the North West also used the same route to transport arms and ammunitions into Nigeria, which they used to aid their campaign of terror.

 

One of the challenges confronting Nigeria today is the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. This problem is more pronounced in developing countries where there are porous borders and weak institutions responsible for border security like Nigeria.

 

The proliferation and misuse of small arms and light weapons in the country is a progressively complex and multifaceted phenomenon that affects people and insecurity.

 

The destabilizing accumulation and uncontrolled spread of small arms and light weapons by the terrorists groups has increased the intensity and duration of conflict, undermines the sustainability of peace, impedes the success of peace building, frustrates efforts aimed at the prevention of the conflict and hinders considerably the provision of humanitarian assistance in the affected areas.

 

Recommendation: There is a need for an improved border management mechanism using modern and sophisticated detection equipment to discourage arms trafficking through border communities in Nigeria.

Understanding TaxPro-Max by FIRS

*Understanding TaxPro-Max by FIRS*

 

By Arabinrin Aderonke Ogunleye-Bello

Amid economic challenges worsened by changing oil prices and COVID-19, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has recognized the critical need for innovative revenue generation methods. Therefore, FIRS has introduced TaxPro Max as a solution to address Nigeria’s critical revenue problems.

 

The introduction of an input VAT credit mechanism and the modification of the sales adjustment process are among the key changes implemented by FIRS. The input VAT credit mechanism mandates suppliers to remit VAT collected from customers using a new sales schedule format, while the sales adjustment process requires taxpayers to provide additional information for adjustments, with VAT credit reversals for prior month adjustments.

 

One of the notable features of TaxPro Max is its robust e-Payment system. Taxpayers can make payments through multiple channels, including online platforms, direct debit, debit cards, and integrated payment gateways such as Remita, InterSwitch, and eTransact. Installment payments are also supported, allowing taxpayers to manage their cash flow more effectively. Before committing to an installment payment agreement, taxpayers can view and calculate payment amounts and schedules, promoting transparency and financial planning.

 

In addition to facilitating tax payments, TaxPro Max generates e-Receipts for payments made, which are automatically sent to the taxpayer’s registered email address. These FIRS-branded receipts serve as tangible evidence of payment and can be verified for authenticity by scanning the QR code provided. Furthermore, taxpayers can easily request and obtain Electronic Tax Clearance Certificates (e-TCC) through TaxPro Max. Upon approval, the e-TCC is promptly delivered via email, offering convenience and efficiency in obtaining essential tax documents.

 

TaxPro-Max holds the potential to stimulate economic growth by improving the ease of doing business in Nigeria. Simplified tax procedures and streamlined processes enable businesses to focus their resources on productive activities, driving innovation, investment, and job creation across various sectors of the economy.

 

Meanwhile, the old method used to be cumbersome, which requires a visit to the FIRS office or hiring of an agent to support the processes of acquiring TIN Number and payment of tax, but with TaxProMax, its a Do-it-yoursef DIY process which simply means, once you have your code, you can do everything on your own and from your comfort zone.

 

The measures taken by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) under the leadership of Dr Zacch Adedeji are a good one. The introduction of TaxPro-Max and the ongoing efforts to modernize tax administration signify a commendable commitment to fostering sustainable revenue generation and economic stability in Nigeria. With the continued dedication and vision of the FIRS boss, there is optimism that the nation’s tax system will undergo substantial reform for the benefit of all Nigerians.

 

_Arabinrin Aderonke ANIPR is an Award-Winning investigative journalist and finalist, 2016 CNN African journalist Award. She currently serves as Technical Assistant, Broadcast Media at Federal Inland Revenue Service_

We’re holding Bobrisky in male facility; we’ll protect him from sexual predators: Correctional Service

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Idris ‘Bobrisky’ Okuneye, a crossdresser who delights in adorning female outfits, will be kept in the male section of the prison facility throughout his six-month imprisonment, Peoples Gazette has reliably learnt from officials of the Nigerian Correctional Service.

 

Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Lagos Division of the Federal High Court on Friday sentenced Bobrisky to jail after he pleaded guilty to a four-count charge of naira abuse.

 

Bobrisky told Ms Awogboro that he was a man when asked to clarify his gender status before the court. The Gazette was told that his answer would later inform the prison officials to keep him in the facility designated for men.

 

“Since he admitted to being a male in court, then we have to abide by what was submitted in court,” the correctional spokesperson told our masthead on Friday.

 

Prison officials also said Bobrisky will be offered adequate protection from other inmates who might want to sexually violate him.

 

“He shouldn’t be afraid of sexual assault from other male inmates because our men can give him protection.”

 

Bobrisky, posting a video of him clutching what appeared to be bosoms and posing half-naked in a bathrobe, has given his five million Instagram followers the impression that he has transitioned to a female.

 

In one of his photos on Instagram, he wrote, “My journey transitioning into a woman has been going smooth, no health issues, everything is going smooth for me.”

Sisi Eko: Olori Temitope Ogunwusi Advocates Cultural Education for the Next Generation

Last weekend, Vicmob Schools Lagos hosted a spectacular evening of arts and cultural celebration with their rendition of the play “Sisi Eko: Lagos Women of All Seasons.”

The event drew esteemed guests, including Her Regal Majesty, Olori (Dr.)Mrs. Temitope Ogunwusi, who was thoroughly impressed by the students’ performances in music, dance, and acting.

In an interview with Adesina Kasali (Medullar Concept), the media and PR director for the play, Olori expressed her elation at witnessing the students’ brilliance on stage. She emphasized the significance of nurturing and grooming children to embrace their culture and traditions, noting that firsthand experiences leave a lasting impact on their understanding.

She commended the students for showcasing their talents and highlighted the importance of preserving Lagos’ rich history and the Yoruba heritage traced back to Ile Ifẹ.

The evening served as a captivating display of talent and cultural pride, leaving attendees in awe of the students’ remarkable performances and underscoring the importance of cultural education and heritage preservation.

Anam boat mishap: Movie producer, Adanma Luke voluntarily submits herself to the police

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Adanma Luke, the producer of the movie actor Jnr Pope was featuring in before he and four others met their untimely death in Anam river, has turned herself in to the police.

In a chat with LIB, the spokesperson of the command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said Adanma voluntarily turned herself in to the police on Thursday, April 11 and wrote a statement.

 

Ikenga also told LIB that two boat operators have been arrested and are in police custody in connection with the unfortunate incident, while other members of the cast and crew of the movie, will be invited for questioning.

 

He assured that nothing would be swept under the carpet with regards to the incident.

Bobrisky jailed for six months with no option of fine over Abuse of Naira

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Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court in Lagos has sentenced cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky, to six months in jail with no option of fine. The judgement was handed this morning, April 12.

Recall that on April 5th, EFCC arraigned Bobrisky in court on a six-count charge ranging from Abuse of the Naira and Money laundering. The court, however, dismissed the money laundering charges but convicted him for Naira Abuse after he confessed to the crime. The court also ordered that he be remanded in EFCC detention in Lagos

 

The judge also adjourned hearing for judgement into the case to April 9. However, the court couldn’t sit due to the April 9 to April 11 Eid-Fitri public holiday.

Canal+ presents an official takeover bid of $2.9 billion to MultiChoice

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Vivendi SE’s Canal+ has officially made an all-cash bid to acquire the MultiChoice Group, placing a valuation of $2.9 billion (R35 billion) on the South African pay-TV operator’s shares. The proposal, disclosed in a filing on Monday, entails Canal+ offering to purchase shares at 125 rands each. This move comes as part of Canal+’s strategy to expand its presence in Africa and capitalize on the continent’s burgeoning market.

Following the bid, MultiChoice will convene a newly established independent board to deliberate on the offer. Despite initial reservations, MultiChoice shares have surged by 25% since Canal+ first expressed interest in acquiring the broadcaster back in February. To navigate regulatory hurdles in South Africa regarding foreign media ownership, Canal+ may enlist the support of South African billionaire Patrice Motsepe, though discussions are still in the early stages.

Canal+ has gradually increased its stake in MultiChoice since 2020, surpassing a 35% holding this year, thereby necessitating a mandatory takeover offer. Vivendi’s intention to list Canal+ as a separate entity aligns with its strategy to capitalize on growth opportunities in Africa and Asia. MultiChoice’s board has engaged Standard Bank as an advisor for the transaction, with both companies affirming that a combined entity would be better equipped to tackle the evolving dynamics of the media and entertainment industry amidst digitalization and globalization.