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The International Labour Organization emphasizes the need for workers’ unions to formulate impactful social agreements

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The International Labour Organisation emphasizes the pivotal role of workers’ organizations in crafting effective and sustainable social contracts, as outlined in the 2023 edition of the International Journal of Labour Research.

The Bureau for Workers’ Activities at the ILO explores the theme “Achieving Social Justice in an Era of Accelerating Change:

A New Social Contract” to delve into the engagement of workers’ organizations in the multilateral and national discourse. Stressing the urgency, the journal advocates for a new social contract rooted in decent work and social justice, addressing international labour standards.

It underscores the pressing need to tackle global decent work deficits and inequalities, with Maria Andre, Director of ACTRAV, emphasizing the acceleration of social cohesion deterioration due to factors like climate and technological changes.

Andre urges workers’ organizations, as significant ILO constituents, to advocate for an adaptive and effective social contract that reflects evolving realities.

The call is for a comprehensive approach, incorporating international labour standards and promoting global solidarity to address geopolitical tensions and the decline of democracy.

The envisioned new social contract prioritizes reducing inequalities and aligns with the fundamental principles and rights at work outlined by the ILO.

 

Egoras introduces a tricycle powered by gas

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Egoras Technology, an innovative firm focusing on sustainable transportation solutions, has unveiled the Egoras Dual-Fuel Tricycle—a gas-powered three-wheeler.

Ugoji Harry, the CEO, emphasized in a statement that this tricycle was crafted to tackle challenges arising from recent subsidy removals.

Highlighting its dual-fuel capabilities, Harry expressed how the tricycle seamlessly operates on both petrol and liquid purified gas, offering a versatile and eco-friendly option for commuters in urban and rural areas.

Noteworthy is the user-friendly design of the Egoras Dual-Fuel Tricycle, making maintenance easy for operators.

Operating in various states across the North, South, and South, the tricycle stands out as a reliable and powerful vehicle with impressive technical specifications.

Constructed from high-quality materials like aluminum, steel, and carbon fiber, it ensures durability and reliability on diverse terrains.

With a robust 10 horsepower engine, the tricycle combines strength and efficiency, reaching a top speed of 60 kmph—providing users with a swift and dependable mode of transportation.

Emphasizing safety, rigorous testing has been conducted to ensure compliance with industry standards, assuring riders and pedestrians of a secure and efficient mode of transportation.

Harry reiterated the firm’s dedication to fostering positive change in Nigeria’s transportation landscape, citing the dual-fuel tricycle as a significant step toward this goal.

Encouraging communities to embrace this sustainable solution, he added that the company provides fleet management services to assist tricycle owners.

Customers can sign agreements with the company, ensuring a hassle-free and comprehensive support system for their tricycle ownership, with drivers from the company’s fleet using the tricycles until ownership is transferred after an agreed-upon period.

 

Customs officials seek alternative income streams amid a decline in imports

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Numerous impediments are hampering the ease of conducting business in the maritime sector, including the high cost of clearing goods due to exchange rate fluctuations.

This concerning situation has left licensed customs agents disheartened, unsure of their next steps to provide for their families.

Some agents have become unemployed, while others, unable to cope, have opted to relocate to their villages to reduce living costs.

Research indicates that the extensive list of prohibited items in Nigeria is another challenge affecting practitioners in the maritime sector, limiting the variety of goods that can be imported.

A significant 60% of licensed customs agents in the maritime industry have transitioned to alternative professions, such as commercial motorcycling (okada riding), due to the adverse effects of the fluctuating exchange rate.

These operators believe that the Central Bank of Nigeria achieved greater stability during Godwin Emefiele’s tenure as the governor compared to the current administration.

Lucky Amiwero, the founder of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents, acknowledges the impact during Emefiele’s administration but emphasizes that the sector is now facing even more significant challenges.

Amiwero explains that the exchange rate under Emefiele was more stable for an extended period before experiencing gradual increases, unlike the current drastic fluctuations affecting both import and export.

Nnadi Ugochukwu, Deputy President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, notes that over 60% of licensed agents have left the job due to excessive taxation and challenges with the import prohibition list.

Despite these challenges, there are alternative avenues for licensed agents to explore. Ship chandelling, providing supplies for ships and seafarers, is a lucrative but overlooked sector.

Additionally, a shift towards exporting goods, trucking consultancy, assisting in car purchases, and car delivery services are viable alternatives for agents seeking stability and income.

These diversifications not only offer income for displaced agents but also contribute to revenue generation for the government.

 

Rest assured, Nigerians, your funds are secure in banks, as guaranteed by the Central Bank of Nigeria

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The Central Bank of Nigeria has reaffirmed the security of funds within Nigerian banks, underscoring the robust stability of the country’s banking sector.

In an official statement, the apex bank urges the public to maintain their routine banking activities and not be swayed by unverified reports, not originating from the CBN, that have caused unnecessary alarm regarding the health of Nigerian banks.

According to the CBN’s communication, it is fully equipped to fulfill its statutory duty of ensuring a stable financial system in Nigeria.

The acting Director, Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi-Ali, emphasized, “Nigerian banks remain safe and sound.” The CBN encourages the public to dismiss concerns arising from reports not originating from them and assures the safety of funds in Nigerian financial institutions.

Speculations fueled by a report suggested the possibility of the CBN taking over Titan Trust Bank (formerly Union Bank) and Keystone Bank. Special investigator Obazee, appointed in July 2023, submitted the final report titled ‘Report of the Special Investigation on CBN and Related Entities (Chargeable Offenses)’ to the Presidency on December 20, 2023.

 

Why I remain unattached at the age of 41, as shared by Ini Edo

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Renowned Nigerian actress Iniobong Edo Ekim, popularly known as Ini Edo, shared insights into her single status at the age of 41 during a recent social media interview.

Emphasizing her desire for genuine love, she clarified the distinction between mere affection and true commitment in a relationship.

Ini Edo highlighted the importance of a partner who not only cares but also earns her respect, emphasizing that her criteria extend beyond financial considerations to encompass a person’s ability to navigate situations and interact kindly with others.

Ultimately, for Ini Edo, the key lies in finding someone who can offer both love and a foundation of mutual respect.

 

The chairman of Ecobank states that economic growth will receive a significant boost through the empowerment of women

The Chairman of Ecobank Nigeria Limited, Mrs Bola Adesola, emphasized the significance of women’s economic empowerment for national economic growth during the 40th anniversary of the Association of Professional Women Bankers in Lagos.

Adesola highlighted women’s progress in the banking and financial services industry, stressing that a nation aiming to unlock its economic potential must prioritize women’s empowerment.

She mentioned the substantial economic cost of women’s limited access to their contributory potential, both in Nigeria and globally.

Adesola also pointed out that of the 133 million multidimensionally poor Nigerians, over 100 million were women and girls.

Dr Ken Okpara, President/Chairman of the Council, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, noted the increasing number of women in the banking sector, with Deloitte’s report indicating progress towards gender equality.

Okpara urged APWB to seize opportunities to enhance the capacity of its members.

During a ‘fireside chat’ with Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Funke Ladimeji, Chairperson of APWB, and Elumelu discussed crucial success factors, including execution, excellence, and enterprise.

Elumelu emphasized the importance of transformation not only for profitability but also for improving lives.

He underscored that leadership revolves around executing strategies through people and assembling the right team.

In her welcome address, Funke Ladimeji acknowledged the founding leaders of APWB for their commitment to enhancing female participation in the banking sector.

Ladimeji recognized the rapid and broad pace of change across various dimensions, foreseeing positive trajectories for female representation.

 

AXA Mansard receives prestigious accolade

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AXA Mansard, a prominent insurance and asset management firm, has earned the prestigious title of General Insurance Company of the Year at the 2023 Almond Insurance Industry Awards.

The awards aim to spotlight excellence in corporate management, leadership, governance, innovation, and sustainable growth within the insurance sector, annually recognizing exceptional accomplishments.

Expressing gratitude for the recognition, AXA Mansard Insurance’s Chief Security Officer, Adekunle Akinbowale, emphasized that the award validates the company’s unwavering commitment to embody AXA’s mission of contributing to human progress in the lives of every Nigerian.

Kunle Ahmed, the Chief Executive Officer of AXA Mansard Insurance Plc, shared his thoughts on the award, stating that it will inspire the company to consistently surpass customer expectations and provide exemplary leadership, especially during uncertain times.

Receiving the accolade as the General Insurance Company of the Year, Ahmed remarked, “We are once again humbled by this award, as it reflects the high level of confidence our customers have in us.

It serves as another testament to our customer-centric approach, signifying their preference for us.

We recognize this as a challenge to do more, and we do not take their trust for granted. Instead, we embrace the challenge to excel across all our business lines – General, Life, Health, and Investments.

WFE advocates for rigorous regulations in cryptocurrency trading

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The World Federation of Exchanges emphasizes the need for stringent regulations on Crypto-Asset Trading Platforms, aligning them with existing regulated exchanges, as highlighted in their recent report, “Good Markets for Good Outcomes – the Role of Governance in the World’s Exchanges.”

While the Central Bank of Nigeria recently lifted a ban on cryptocurrency transactions, the WFE underscores the importance of subjecting crypto trading platforms to similar rules as traditional exchanges due to observed failures in the crypto market.

The WFE supports a technology-neutral regulatory approach and encourages governments to apply existing exchange laws to crypto-asset platforms.

Despite the global cryptocurrency market exceeding $1 trillion in market capitalization, concerns arise from failures in the crypto space, often attributed to governance issues, lack of controls, and potential fraud.

Meanwhile, the Securities and Exchange Commission, responding to the 2021 crypto ban, has introduced regulations for digital assets and is exploring the possibility of tokenized coin offerings on licensed digital exchanges.

In a broader context, blockchain research firm Chainalysis reports a nine percent year-over-year growth in crypto transactions in Nigeria, reaching $56.7 billion between July 2022 and June 2023.

David Akande’s Movie Asa Wins at Best of Nollywood Awards

In a resounding victory, the versatile actor, writer, and producer David Akande has once more claimed the spotlight, this time at the esteemed Best of Nollywood Awards. His latest cinematic gem, “Asa,” not only captivated audiences but also secured the prestigious award for the Best Movie with a Social Message at the ceremony.

Akande, known for his exemplary storytelling and commitment to thought-provoking narratives, delivered yet another compelling and socially impactful production with “Asa.” The film’s win in the category underscores Akande’s dedication to weaving stories that resonate deeply with audiences while addressing pertinent societal issues.

 

“Asa” stands as a testament to Akande’s creative prowess, featuring a powerful narrative that touches upon relevant social themes, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. This recognition at the Best of Nollywood Awards reaffirms Akande’s position as a visionary storyteller whose work transcends entertainment to provoke meaningful conversations within society.

In addition to his recent triumph with “Asa,” Akande’s illustrious career has been adorned with numerous accolades, including previous wins and nominations at various prestigious ceremonies such as the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and the Africa Movie Academy Awards. His dedication to the craft of filmmaking and his ability to deliver narratives with depth and impact continue to solidify his standing as a prominent figure in the Nigerian film industry.

 

With each production, David Akande consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of storytelling, using his platform to address pertinent societal issues. His latest achievement with “Asa” at the Best of Nollywood Awards not only celebrates his talent and dedication but also reinforces the influential role of cinema in advocating for social change.

 

As audiences eagerly await his next cinematic endeavor, David Akande remains an emblem of inspiration, using his creative prowess to shine a light on compelling stories that resonate far beyond the silver screen.

 

Emeka Ike’s son declares, “My father considers me nonexistent

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Michael, the son of veteran actor Emeka Ike, has revealed that he considers himself estranged from his father and no longer seeks anything from him.

In an interview with Chud on a podcast, Michael expressed his reaction to his father’s video discussing family matters.

Reflecting on the video, Michael questioned whether he wanted to reconcile with someone portraying such behavior.

Despite attempts to mediate, he expressed dissatisfaction with his father discussing private family matters publicly.

Michael confronted his father about the disrespectful portrayal in the media and highlighted his displeasure.

Michael further condemned his father’s negative attitude, recounting instances of insults and discouragement.

Despite his father’s discouraging words about his music career, Michael asserted that he no longer seeks anything from his father.

Emeka Ike’s marriage to Suzanne Emma faced allegations of battery, leading to its dissolution by a Lagos Island Customary Court in 2015.

Emeka Ike later revealed the impact of his marital struggles on his life, including the closure of his secondary school and the loss of properties.

He attributed these challenges to his ex-wife’s actions and discussed the difficulties he faced in various aspects of his life, including clashes with fellow Nollywood actors.