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Amaechi explains reasons behind discouraging departure from Nigeria in conversation with Japa

The former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, clarified his stance on discouraging Nigerians from emigrating, commonly known as “Japa.

During an interview on Arise Television, Amaechi expressed that seeking a 9 to 5 job abroad might limit opportunities compared to staying in Nigeria, where individuals could rise to political offices.

He urged young Nigerians to navigate their way into decision-making roles, particularly in the country’s economic sphere.

Amaechi emphasized his belief that staying in Nigeria offers unique opportunities, stating, “If you are looking for opportunity, please stay back in Nigeria, but if you are looking for 9-5, safety, and others, you can leave the country.

He underscored the unpredictable nature of achieving political positions in Nigeria, contrasting it with the more structured employment abroad.

Highlighting his commitment to honesty, Amaechi pointed out that his fear of God sets him apart from other elites and politicians.

He expressed a willingness to speak the truth even in challenging situations, emphasizing that he chooses honesty over political correctness.

When questioned about his political career, Amaechi declined to provide a response.

Amaechi served as Nigeria’s Minister of Transportation from 2015 to 2022 in the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Following his resignation, he contested the presidential primary within the ruling All Progressives Congress, ultimately losing to Bola Tinubu in the race that Tinubu later won in the presidential election.

 

The World Bank reports a 7% reduction in poverty in Nigeria and Tanzania due to increased internet access

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The World Bank has revealed in its recent brief, “Digital transformation drives development in Africa,” that enhanced Internet access in Nigeria and Tanzania resulted in a notable 7% reduction in extreme poverty over three years.

Moreover, labor force participation and wage employment witnessed an impressive 8% increase.

In the last five years, Sub-Saharan Africa saw a remarkable 115% surge in Internet users, contributing significantly to economic growth, innovation, and job opportunities.

Despite Nigeria having over five million active Internet subscriptions, there’s a pressing need for broader coverage to foster inclusive economic growth.

Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, acknowledged Nigeria’s relatively low data costs globally but expressed concerns about operators’ reluctance to extend fiber coverage beyond major cities due to profitability concerns.

World Bank Chief Economist for Africa, Andrew Dabalen, emphasized the untapped potential of mobile internet usage in Africa, stating that closing the uptake gap could drive inclusive growth.

However, challenges persist, including high mobile internet costs and a substantial digital gender gap, with women being 37% less likely to use mobile internet compared to men.

The brief underscores the region’s digital infrastructure challenges, noting that despite widespread coverage, only 22% of people in Sub-Saharan Africa were using mobile internet services by the end of 2021.

Affordability remains a major hurdle, with the cost of one gigabyte of mobile data significantly exceeding the United Nations Broadband Commission’s recommended 2% of monthly per-capita Gross National Income.

Moreover, the digital gender gap persists, with women lagging behind in mobile internet use by 37%.

The lack of proof of ID for around 470 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2021 is hindering their access to crucial public and private services.

Despite these challenges, the World Bank reiterated its commitment to digital development in Africa, with a substantial investment of $731.8 million across 11 Digital Development projects over six years.

This aligns with the broader Digital Economy for Africa initiative, aiming to digitally empower every individual, business, and government in Africa by 2030, with a cumulative allocation of $2.8 billion across 24 projects over the past decade.

Martinelli’s brace ensures Arsenal’s commanding 5-0 victory over Palace in the EPL

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The Gunners bounced back in style with a resounding 5-0 victory over Crystal Palace at the Emirates on Saturday.

Arsenal secured their first league win of the New Year, kick-started by Brazilian defender Gabriel’s 11th-minute header, a powerful nod past Henderson following a corner kick from Declan Rice.

Henderson found himself with an own goal after the ball struck the back of his head, a moment contested by Palace players who believed it resulted from an obstruction by Ben White.

A swift counterattack initiated by Arsenal goalkeeper Raya, who quickly delivered the ball to Gabriel Jesus, allowed the Brazilian to set up his Belgian teammate, Trossard, for a goal past Henderson.

Far from content with a 3-0 lead, the Gunners showcased their attacking prowess until the final whistle.

In stoppage time, Martinelli scored two quick goals, securing a comfortable victory against Roy Hodgson’s side.

This triumph comes after Arsenal’s setbacks in 2023, including a 2-0 home loss to West Ham and a 2-1 defeat by Fulham at Craven Cottage, followed by a 2-0 FA Cup loss to Liverpool.

With this win, Arsenal maintains their third position, level on points with Manchester City and trailing leaders Liverpool by two points.

Meanwhile, Crystal Palace remains five points above the relegation zone with a total of 21 points.

 

Otedola and celebrities extend congratulations to Kunle Remi on his wedding celebration

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On Friday, January 19, 2024, the renowned actor Kunle Remi and his wife Boluwatiwi captivated the town with their star-studded traditional wedding held in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The couple created unforgettable moments, with Remi expressing his overwhelming happiness and admiration for his bride, who radiated joy throughout the wedding rites.

A heartwarming highlight was when the couple serenaded each other with sweet words and Remi delighted his bride by playing the talking drum, turning the celebration into a dance of love.

Emotions ran high as the bride, accompanied by her parents, shared tearful embraces of joy during the ceremony.

Remi also shared a touching moment with Lady Doja, former Lagos State first lady and mother to billionaire businessman Femi Otedola, who graced the occasion.

In a delightful turn, Remi sat on Lady Doja’s lap, and a loving kiss on his cheek ensued, leaving guests smiling.

The groomsmen, including actors Mofe Duncan, Isaac Olayiwola (Layi Wasabi), Efe Iwara, and best man Bimbo Ademoye, added a touch of glamour to the celebration.

The star-studded event also drew in celebrities like Deyemi Okonlawon, Sharon Ooja, Beverly Osu, Bisola Aiyeola, and many others.

EFCC lodges new charges, alleging Emefiele’s involvement in forgery

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On Friday, the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, faced arraignment at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Maitama, Abuja, on 20 counts related to corruption and forgery.

Dressed in an ash-colored pair of trousers and a dark jacket, Emefiele, accompanied by his legal team and associates, arrived at the court premises.

Initially arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on six counts of N1.2bn procurement allegations, Emefiele now faces an amended 20-count charge.

The charges include forgery, conferring a corrupt advantage, and criminal breach of trust. Emefiele, donned in an ash-colored pair of trousers and a dark jacket, pleaded not guilty.

The Federal Government had initially filed 19 charges related to procurement fraud against the ex-CBN boss, later reduced to six.

In the amended charge, Emefiele is accused of obtaining $6.2m through false pretenses, misrepresenting the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

The charges also allege Emefiele’s involvement in forgery, conspiring with Eric Ocheme (still at large) to forge a document related to a presidential directive on foreign election observer missions.

Additionally, Emefiele is accused of conferring a corrupt advantage by awarding a renovation contract for the CBN Governor’s residence to his wife and brother-in-law.

Following the adjournment of the case to February for trial, Emefiele’s counsel, Mathew Bukka, expressed gratitude to the trial judge, Justice Hamza Muazu, for allowing his client to enjoy bail.

Bukka emphasized that Emefiele would return to face trial on the amended charges, acknowledging the state’s right to add more counts within the rule of law.

The trial is scheduled to commence on February 12 and 13, 2024.

 

World Theater Day: VICMOB High School Set To Stage Another Play “SISI EKO, LAGOS WOMAN OF ALL SEASON” 

After the successful production of Asake’ and ‘Black Bethlehem’ which have left an indelible mark, and now, a new chapter unfolds as VICMOB High School proudly announces the much-anticipated staging of “SISI EKO – LAGOS WOMAN OF ALL SEASON.” This production stands as a celebration of World Theatre Day.

Scheduled for April 6, 2024, starting at 4 pm, the event promises to captivate audiences within the enchanting premises of VICMOB High School, located at 23 Elegbede Street off Coker Road, Shasha, Oguntade, Egbeda, Lagos.

Vicmob Director of Schools, Mrs. Modupe Folarin

According to the director of schools, Mrs. Modupe Folarin, “we extend a heartfelt invitation to parents, guardians, and the entire community to join us on April 6, 2024, at 4 pm. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable journey through history and culture as “SISI EKO – LAGOS WOMAN OF ALL SEASON” unfolds, ensuring an enriching experience for all attendees.”

 

As well for further information and real-time updates, the school can be reached via various social media platforms:Facebook/Instagram/Twitter/TikTok/YouTube: @vicmobschools

 

As well the school is seeking for sponsorship, partnership and collaborations on the project. For enquiries: Dial 08029096149 and for general enquiries: Contact 0703 661 9443 | 09160034542

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Written By Adesina Kasali

Hotel manager succumbs to heart attack following Ibadan explosion

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The Operations Manager, Tunde Solomon, of BON Hotel Nest Ibadan, has tragically passed away due to a heart attack believed to be linked to an explosion near the hotel in Bodija.

The explosion occurred in the Adeyi area at Old Bodija, Ibadan on Tuesday night, claiming 5 lives, injuring 77 residents, and damaging 58 houses.

The management of BON Hotel Nest Ibadan announced Mr. Solomon’s demise in a statement on their official Instagram account, expressing deep regret for the sudden loss.

The statement highlighted Mr. Solomon’s dedicated 25-year career and extended heartfelt condolences to his family, acknowledging the significant void left by his absence.

 

The FG aims to allocate more than $3 trillion for the energy transition

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The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Dr. Heineken Lokpobiri, revealed at the 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, that Nigeria is set to invest a total of $3.1tn in transitioning from fossil fuels to cleaner and renewable energy.

Lokpobiri specified that the energy transition plan is projected at $1.9tn, with an additional $1.2tn estimated for the renewable energy plan by 2060.

Emphasizing Nigeria’s commitment to responsible fossil fuel exploration and alignment with OPEC expectations, he stressed that the nation, particularly in Africa, aims to achieve this transition without relying on aids and grants.

During the forum, the minister, accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima and other global leaders, outlined strategic initiatives to position Nigeria as an attractive investment destination in the oil sector.

He invited prospective investors to join the transformative journey, ensuring mutual prosperity and sustainable energy solutions.

Highlighting the importance of increased investment in the oil and gas sector for economic growth and energy security, Lokpobiri advocated for domestic control of mineral resources’ mining and production.

He asserted that this approach would generate climate finance for Africa, emphasizing a shift in transition conversations towards trade and partnerships rather than focusing solely on deadlines.

 

The Supreme Court upholds the election victory of Dapo Abiodun

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The Supreme Court has upheld the victory of Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun.

Ladi Adebutu and the Peoples Democratic Party had sought the court’s intervention to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct fresh elections in 99 polling units where alleged cancellations occurred.

The Lagos Division of the Appeal Court had, on November 24, 2023, affirmed Abiodun’s re-election in a split decision, with Justice Joseph Ikyegh delivering the majority judgment, dismissing the appeal from the PDP and its governorship candidate.

Justice Tijani Abubakar, in the lead judgment, further dismissed the appeal.

 

Prime Video Cuts Funding in Africa, Middle East in Favor of Focusing on European Originals

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Amazon Prime Video is restructuring its international business to focus on European originals. The re-org will involve cutting content and staff in Africa and the Middle East.

 

Shows from the MENA region that have already been greenlit or contracted are still on the slate, including “LOL ZA” and “Ebuka Turns Up Africa,” but it may stop greenlighting local originals in Sub Saharan Africa, the Middle East and North Africa for the foreseeable future.

 

Although Prime Video will continue to operate in those territories, there may be redundancies in the local teams.

 

Meanwhile the European team will be split into two, both reporting into Prime Video Europe VP Barry Furlong. One, known as EU Established and led by country director for France Brigitte Ricou-Bellan, will focus on the U.K., Germany, Italy, France and Spain. The other, EU Emerging, will focus on growing businesses in Benelux, the Nordics and CEE. It will be led by Ritchie Ordonez, director of Benelux, CEE and Turkey.

 

It remains unclear whether the European restructing will lead to layoffs within Prime Video’s teams in Europe.

 

The company also intends to hire an executive in a new role, currently defined as director of EU content and programming strategy, who will work with both U.S. and international colleagues on the Amazon MGM Studios pipeline.

 

In the email to staff, Furlong said: “We’ve been carefully looking at our business to ensure we continue to prioritize our resources on what matters most to customers. I have carefully evaluated our structure in the region and decided to make some adjustments to our operating model to rebalance and pivot our resources to focus on the areas that drive the highest impact and long-term success. I have listened and considered the feedback received across the teams over the past 12 months; I believe these changes will improve the operational running of our multi-territory business and allow us to be more agile and focused.”

 

As Variety reported last year, Prime Video had been bolstering their investment in Africa and the Middle East, including establishing dedicated country teams for both Nigeria and South Africa, hiring a raft of new employees and inking a number of multi-year licensing deals. Africa had been a priority within this plan, while across the Arab world Prime Video had not commissioned any originals.

 

“We want to make sure that we’re really telling the stories of whole communities that have never even been able to see their stories on camera before,” said Ned Mitchell, the Los Angeles-based head of originals for Africa and the Middle East for Prime Video and Amazon Studios, in an interview with Variety last year. “And we think that the new standard that we’re hoping to create, in working and producing premium content, will attract all African storytellers and crews and talent who want to join us in creating those stories. And if we can get that right, I really don’t think there’s a limit to where we can go next.”