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The South West regional railway is set to connect a total of 44 cities, as reported by DAWN

Tosin Ranks
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The South West regional railway is set to connect a total of 44 cities, as reported by DAWN

The Development Agenda for Western Nigeria Commission is unwavering in its commitment to expedite the development of the South-Western region.

Mr. Boye Ologbese, the commission’s Chairman and State Focal Officer, expressed that the proposed integrated transportation network project is a pivotal component of the commission’s strategy to accelerate regional development.

This information was conveyed in a statement released in Akure, Ondo State, by his media aide, Mrs. Debbie Funmilayo.

Ologbese, who also serves as the Ondo State Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations and recently assumed the role of Chairman, State Focal Officer of the commission, elaborated on the proposal for a regional railway network connecting 44 cities and towns, emphasizing its potential to bolster the region’s economic growth.

He stated, “DAWN is entrusted with the vital task of ensuring sustainable development in the South-West region, and the commission has devised a comprehensive plan to expedite progress in the fields of power and railway infrastructure.”

The integrated transportation network project seeks to address transportation challenges in the South-West, facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services while opening up previously underserved areas.

The rail infrastructure will enhance connectivity with other South-Western states, thereby fostering economic opportunities.

It is expected that improved mobility through the rail project will significantly contribute to addressing Nigeria’s rapidly growing population.

Mr. Ologbese also commended the performance of Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, highlighting the opportunities presented by his administration for economic expansion and collaboration.

Akeredolu’s initiatives, including the establishment of the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps) and the realization of the Ondo Deep Sea Port, demonstrate his commitment to regional security and economic growth.

Ologbese stressed the pivotal role of peace and security in strengthening regional economic integration and called for increased collaborative efforts among South-West states’ focal representatives within the commission to ensure the commission’s mandate is optimally achieved.

 

Air Peace is set to commence its operations in London

Tosin Ranks
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Air Peace is set to commence its operations in London

Despite the challenges posed by inconsistent government policies and bureaucratic obstacles, Air Peace, West Africa’s largest carrier, recently achieved a significant milestone.

Instead of expanding its fleet, the private airline successfully gained authorization to enter the European airspace by securing a Foreign Carrier Operator Permit (FCOP) for flights to London.

This permit allows them to operate direct flights to London using their Boeing 777 aircraft.

Furthermore, the airline extended its presence in Asia by launching scheduled commercial flights to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, marking its sixth international destination in just nine years since its commercial flight operations began.

However, it’s worth noting that Air Peace faced various challenges, including infrastructural gaps and government policies, during the past three years.

They had to overcome hurdles to secure landing permits, particularly during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite these challenges, the airline’s commitment to providing affordable air travel is evident, as they offered competitive fares during these challenging times.

Human rights activist Femi Falana called for the suspension of British Airways and Virgin Atlantic flights into Nigeria until Air Peace is allowed to operate on the Lagos-London route in accordance with the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) signed by Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

Stakeholders commended Air Peace for its achievements but emphasized the need for government support for the airline’s sustained success.

Nigerian airlines face difficulties in securing routes and achieving reciprocity under BASA agreements. Air Peace also highlighted the issue of outstanding debts owed by the federal government, which affect the airline’s operations.

They called for government support and the provision of foreign exchange to enable the return of aircraft after maintenance.

In summary, Air Peace has shown its capacity to compete internationally and is investing in its fleet.

They require support from the government to further enhance their operations and contribute to the growth of the Nigerian aviation industry.

 

A Lagos court has issued a bench warrant to apprehend Cletus Ibeto

Tosin Ranks
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A Lagos court has issued a bench warrant to apprehend Cletus Ibeto

The Lagos State High Court, situated in Ikeja, Lagos, has issued a bench warrant for the apprehension of businessman Cletus Ibeto, who failed to make a court appearance for his arraignment on charges of an alleged N4.8 billion fraud.

A statement by Dele Oyewale, Head of Media and Publicity at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, indicated that Justice I.O. Ijelu issued the warrant on Friday.

This development transpired after the judge had adjourned Ibeto’s arraignment, along with Ibeto Energy Development Company and Odoh Holdings, on 10-count charges related to obtaining by false pretences, fraudulent conversion of property, criminal breach of trust, forgery, and deception.

This adjournment was granted on October 5, 2023, with the new arraignment date set for November 3, 2023, following a request from Ibeto’s lawyer, Onyechi Ikpeazu.

Mr. Ikpeazu, in his request for an adjournment, conveyed to the court that the law applies to everyone without exception, expressing confidence in resolving the matter given some time.

He also mentioned the absence of a medical report explaining the defendant’s non-appearance and suggested that the issues at hand could potentially be resolved between the complainant and the defendants.

In response, the prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, highlighted that while plea bargaining was encouraged even in criminal cases, the EFCC had provided an opportunity for the parties to resolve their differences, which they did not take advantage of.

He emphasized the need for an initial arraignment before the court could proceed with any actions.

 

Key Facts About the Fourth Mainland Bridge Project

Tosin Ranks
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0
Key Facts About the Fourth Mainland Bridge Project

Lagos State has shortlisted three bidders for the monumental $2.5 billion Fourth Mainland Bridge project.

This ambitious endeavor, commissioned by the Lagos State Government, aims to span 38 kilometers, connecting Lagos Island via Langbasa (Lekki) and Baiyeku (Ikorodu) over the Lagos Lagoon to Itamaga in Ikorodu.

Once completed, it is set to become Africa’s second-longest bridge, featuring three toll plazas, nine interchanges, a 4.5-kilometer Lagoon Bridge, and an environmentally friendly setting.

Here are six key points to understand about the Fourth Mainland Bridge:

1. Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Project:
The Fourth Mainland Bridge is a collaborative project between the Lagos State Government and a consortium of private investors led by the Chinese construction company CCECC-CRCCIG Consortium.

This partnership encompasses the construction and operation of a 37-kilometer tolled road and bridge with a design speed of 120 km/h, coupled with the development of adjacent real estate.

2. Preferred Bidder Selection:
On December 29, 2022, the Lagos State Government announced that the CCECC-CRCCIG Consortium had been chosen as the preferred bidder to undertake this significant project.

3. Project Cost:
The estimated cost of the Fourth Mainland Bridge is $2.5 billion, originally proposed in 2006 and subsequently earmarked with a budget allocation of $2.2 billion in the 2017 Lagos State budget.

4. Investment Partnership:
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, secured a substantial investment partnership of $1.352 billion with the African Export-Import Bank and Access Bank during the second Africaribbean Trade and Investment Forum 2023 in Georgetown, Guyana. This funding will support the project’s realization.

5. Project Completion Date:
The Lagos State Government has set the target of delivering the Fourth Mainland Bridge by 2027, following the selection of CCECC-CRCCIG Consortium as the preferred bidder.

6. Bridge Details:
The Fourth Mainland Bridge is designed as a 2 x 4 lane carriageway cross-sectional road, with provisions for a BRT Lane and future road expansion.

This bridge is poised to bridge the gap between the mainland and island segments of Nigeria’s former capital city and economic center, complementing the existing Eko, Carter, and Third Mainland Bridges.

The project is expected to extend over approximately 37 kilometers, commencing from Abraham Adesanya in Ajah, along the Eti-Osa-Lekki-Epe corridor, and extending northwest to the Lagoon shoreline of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway via Owutu/Isawo in Ikorodu.

 

The EFCC successfully obtains convictions for 41 individuals involved in internet fraud in the states of Oyo and Ogun

Tosin Ranks
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0
The EFCC successfully obtains convictions for 41 individuals involved in internet fraud in the states of Oyo and Ogun

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has disclosed that its Ibadan zonal office has successfully prosecuted and sentenced 41 individuals involved in internet fraud to various prison terms in the states of Oyo and Ogun.

According to EFCC, these individuals were convicted after admitting guilt in response to one-count charges brought against them.

The convictions took place before Judges Ladiran Akintola and Adebukola Olajide at the Oyo State High Court in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Additionally, some of the convictions occurred before Judges Abiodun Akinyemi, A.A. Babawale, and B.B. Adebowale at the Ogun State High Court in Abeokuta, and before Justice Uche Agomoh at the Federal High Court in Ibadan, Oyo State.

This information was conveyed in a statement issued by EFCC’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale.

It should be noted that all 41 convicts were apprehended by law enforcement officers on charges related to internet-related offenses.

Among the convicted individuals are Siyanbade Timilehin Omobosola, Ilugbo Emmanuel Adekunle, Odude Ayomide Michael, Aderounmu Gbenga Michael, Oluwole David Dare, Habeeblahi Abdullateef Akande, Ololade Sunday Olamide, Ibrahim Victor Abayomi, Adewusi Mojeed Adedeji, Afeez Lekan Jimoh, Peter Seyi Iyanuoluwa, Olatunde Abass, Alan-Oni Joseph Opeyemi, Adetunji Abolaji Adeola, and Ogunmola Oluwabori Michael.

 

The Naira’s rebound persists as it gains further ground, now bolstering to ₦‎950

Tosin Ranks
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0
The Naira’s rebound persists as it gains further ground, now bolstering to ₦‎950

The Naira’s resurgence against the US dollar continued on Friday, as it strengthened to an average exchange rate of N950 per dollar in the parallel market.

This marks a remarkable N170 increase, reflecting a 15.18% appreciation in the local currency compared to the N1,120 exchange rate just the previous day.

This upward trend marks the second consecutive day of the Naira’s recovery, driven by the Central Bank of Nigeria’s action to address its FX backlog.

According to Bureaux De Change operators interviewed by The PUNCH, the Naira’s positive momentum is ongoing, and the market is responding favorably to the CBN’s intervention.

One trader, Awolu, stated, “The dollar is available at N950 today for those looking to purchase.”

Kadri, another trader, mentioned that he buys at N900 per dollar but sells at N950, indicating a favorable trend in the exchange rate. Taura, another currency trader, reported an exchange rate of N1,015 per dollar in his area, with selling at N980 and buying at N1,015.

However, it’s worth noting that not all reports are equally positive.

Muhammad pointed out that the Naira’s value was currently at N970 per dollar, and the spread between buying and selling was N10.

Aminu Gwadabe, the President of the Association of Bureaux De Change Operators of Nigeria, confirmed that the CBN’s efforts to clear its backlog have played a pivotal role in the Naira’s strengthening.

He emphasized the need for continued transparency in CBN’s actions.

It was reported on Thursday that the CBN had begun settling outstanding matured FX forwards owed to various creditors, including Citi Bank, Stanbic IBTC, and Standard Chartered Bank.

 

France will repatriate $150 million in stolen funds linked to the Abacha regime

Tosin Ranks
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0
France will repatriate $150 million in stolen funds linked to the Abacha regime

On Friday, the Presidency announced that France is set to repatriate a substantial $150 million in funds previously looted by the former Nigerian military leader, General Sani Abacha.

In an official statement, Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Publicity, conveyed the President’s appreciation for France’s decision.

During a meeting with the French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Catherine Colonna, President Tinubu expressed his delight at the strengthening of bilateral relations between Nigeria and France, which had evolved following his visit to Paris after his inauguration.

President Tinubu expressed his gratitude for the positive development of the Abacha loot repatriation and stressed the importance of using these recovered funds wisely to achieve Nigeria’s development goals.

Furthermore, he emphasized the need to enhance collaboration on both political and economic fronts, acknowledging the growing cooperation between the two countries in areas like climate change, economic integration, education, and culture.

Tinubu also acknowledged the signing of a €100 million agreement between Nigeria and France to support the i-DICE program, a Federal Government initiative promoting investments in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and the Creative Arts Industries.

The French Minister extended an invitation to President Tinubu to attend the upcoming Paris Peace Forum and lauded the completion of the Abacha loot repatriation, emphasizing the significance of this achievement.

She also commended President Tinubu’s leadership in overseeing the affairs of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and expressed France’s support for his efforts, underlining the importance of constitutional order and democracy in all countries.

 

Bodex Social Media Hangout 4.0: Shaping the Digital Landscape for Positive Impact

Ranks-Staff
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Bodex Social Media Hangout 4.0: Shaping the Digital Landscape for Positive Impact

The 4th edition of the Bodex Social Media Hangout, held at the prestigious Radisson Blu Ikeja, Lagos on 21st October 2023, brought together an ensemble of digital experts, thoughtful leaders, Opinion experts, stakeholders and social media enthusiasts for an event that left a profound mark on the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Themed ‘Social Media: Hope or Hubris,’ the event explored the evolution of social media, transforming from its early days as a platform for personal connections to the complex landscape it has become today. Attendees had the exclusive opportunity to engage with a remarkable lineup of top-tier digital experts who shared their invaluable insights on various digital topics.

The driving force behind the Bodex Social Media Hangout, the esteemed convener Bodex Hungbo, commenced the event with a thought-provoking narrative. She recounted the fascinating journey of social media from its inception to its current role in society, highlighting its original purpose: “to bring sanity to netizens” through the annual gathering of experts.

Guest speaker Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, Lagos State Commissioner of Information and Strategy, shared his insights on how social media has emerged as the new leader, accelerating communication in an interactive and effective manner, surpassing the limitations of traditional media. His compelling discussion resonated with attendees, emphasizing the significance of this dynamic medium.

Keynote speaker Obi Asika, the founder of Omniverse, captivated the audience by shedding light on the astounding growth of Nigerian influencers in the digital space, amassing billions of followers on social media platforms. His perspective underscored the global impact of Nigerian content creators.

Ray Sharma, lead partner at Global Tech and a seasoned investor, delivered an engaging talk on the rapid growth of social media platforms. He pointed out that Instagram took two and a half years to reach a hundred million users, TikTok achieved this feat in just nine months, and ChatGPT, a testament to cutting-edge technology, took a mere month to reach a hundred million users.

The head Mass Media Writing Department School of Media Communication at Pan-Atlantic University Dr. Chike Mgbeadichie also gave a compelling speech on the importance of cultural competence in content creation. He emphasised the inevitable need for cross-cultural knowledge and skills in creating content that respects the cultural and religious sensitivities of others.

Izzi Boye who is into smartphones maximization also taught some hidden features on smartphones leaving the audience jaw dropping as they never knew such features existed on their phones

The Bodex Social Media Hangout 4.0 also featured three enlightening panel sessions where savvy panelists shared insights on different topics. Moderated by Ekezue Anthonia Ezenwa, the first panel featured Dr. Morayo Brown, Victor Ogunyinka, Ekemini Ekerette, and Elsie Godwin, discussing how social media can inspire hope for individuals in today’s turbulent times.

The second panel, moderated by Mercy Frank, featured Hon Gbenga Omotoso, Charles Olojede, Mariam Bakre, and Taiwo Adeyemi sharing their informed opinions on the essentiality of digital media in various sectors, including business, governance and citizenship participation.

Moderated by Lanre Basamta, the third panel featured JJ Omojuwa, Olubiyi Tudors Ogunbiyi, Naijabrandinfluencer and Dami Adenuga dispensing enlightening thoughts on the prospects of social media for economic empowerment. All sessions proved engaging with remarkable takeaways for the audience.

Overall, the Bodex Social Media Hangout 4.0 succeeded in fostering a renewed commitment to using social media as a force for good, emphasizing responsible engagement, and highlighting the incredible potential it offers for both personal and professional growth.

For more information about the Bodex Social Media Hangout and its mission, please visit www.bsmhangout.com

Veteran actor Ameachi Muonagor begs for help to battle stroke

Ranks-Staff
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Veteran actor Ameachi Muonagor begs for help to battle stroke

Veteran actor Ameachi Muonagor begs for help to battle stroke

Veteran actor Ameachi Muonagor has cried out to the public for support after revealing that he is currently battling a stroke.

 

The actor known for playing a fatherly role in the movie Aki and Pawpaw disclosed this information on Thursday night in a widely shared video, claiming that he has been experiencing a stroke for the previous seven months.

 

Ameachi who appeared bedridden in the video, made an appeal to the public for financial support.

 

“I am sick, this thing that is called stroke caught up with me, and from there they rushed me to the hospital. The first hospital they rushed me to was in Nnewi, where I spent some two months and I was referred to teaching hospital Nnewi and here I am.

 

“In that set, I was with Emeka Ani, Patience Ozokwo, Rita Edochie, and Ebele Okaro, at the end of that moment, I was to enter my car when I was struck with this problem and since then it’s getting worse. Right now I cannot move, I can’t walk on my own. All my half of left is paralyzed, so it’s a problem to me.”

 

Speaking further, Ameachi Muonagor said: “I’m so sorry I didn’t make it known to the public earlier, because I didn’t know it will last this long, but as it is now, I am calling on well-minded individuals to come to my assistance, to see how they can help me. It’s paralysis, half of my body.”

 

Credit: X // O2 Connect

People who lack understanding wrongly accuse me of requesting a 25% share – Wike

Tosin Ranks
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0
People who lack understanding wrongly accuse me of requesting a 25% share – Wike

The Federal Capital Territory’s Minister, Nyesom Wike, has rebuked those who accuse him of seeking a 25 percent share from the Rivers government, calling them ignorant. He made these remarks during a visit by a delegation from the Rivers Caucus in the 10th National Assembly, which included three senators and 11 members of the House of Representatives in Abuja.

Rivers had been embroiled in a crisis following an attempt by the Rivers Assembly to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Wike, who served as governor for eight years and is currently the FCT Minister, vehemently denied any interest in governing Rivers.

He emphasized his focus on preserving the political structure that had been meticulously developed over the years.

He issued a stern warning to anyone contemplating interfering with this political structure, emphasizing that such actions would lead to severe consequences.

Wike urged the caucus members to work as a cohesive team for the benefit of the people of Rivers and assured them that constructive criticism would be offered to keep them on the right path.

Reflecting on the challenges faced during his tenure as an opposition party leader from 2015, Wike acknowledged the relentless opposition from the Federal Government but credited the collective effort in overcoming those challenges.

He stressed the importance of unity within the caucus to prevent external interference in the state’s affairs.

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