The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Lagos distributes study packs to schools

    Lagos distributes study packs to schools

    The Lagos State Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA) has distributed “Lagos Learn Together”(LLT) materials to schools in the six educational districts in the State.

    A statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs of the agency, Mrs.Adepeju Adeyemi said the LLT Learning Platform initiatives launched in  2021 in physical and digital formats with regular updates were conceived by the Office of Education Quality Assurance to promote distance / remote learning and to ensure continuity in learning especially during emergencies/long vacations. It was designed for learners to serve as additional resources to the existing learning curriculum or scheme of work.

    The statement read in part: “Speaking during the distribution of the learning packs, the Director-General, Office of Education Quality Assurance, Mrs. Abiola Seriki-Ayeni noted that the LLT was aimed at revolutionising learning in the State, promoting the reading culture and deepening existing educational equality by increasing access to educational resources, especially during the long holidays.

    “With this initiative, we have free learning resources for students, teachers, parents and all schools below the tertiary level of education. The physical learning pack being distributed free to students is a paradigm shift to prove that we are readers, lovers of books and will deploy education for the greater needs of mankind.”

    Read Also: MC Oluomo rolls out relief package for Lagos bus drivers, passengers

    The statement added:”The D.G noted that according to the 2023/2024 State’s Harmonised Academic School Calendar which was published  in june stipulates schools resume by Monday, September 4th, 2023 the study packs will keep students busy and serve as a refresher for modules learnt during the academic

    “The OEQA leveraged on technology to drive the remote learning platform with all-inclusive e-learning and access to content modelled after the curriculum in compliance with the T.H.E.M.E.S plus agenda of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu on Education and Technology. The OEQA created the platform as a bank of educational materials for students all the way from primary school to SSS3.

    She therefore urged students to use these resources wisely and maximise the opportunities that come with the initiative for the betterment of education and society, saying “Since we have a responsibility to our community, the OEQA has provided Learning Packs to even students who have no access to technology.’’

  • Fintiri relaxes curfew in 17 Adamawa LGAs

    Fintiri relaxes curfew in 17 Adamawa LGAs

    Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa has relaxed the curfew in 17 of the 21 Local Government Areas of the state.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Fintiri imposed the curfew on the affected areas in the wake of Sunday’s looting of government’s warehouses by unidentified hoodlums.

    The measure is contained in a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr Humwashi Wonosikou, in Yola and made available to newsmen on Tuesday.

    The statement however disclosed that the curfew would continue in Yola-North, Yola-South, Girei and Numan from 6 p.m to 6 a.m daily, until further notice.

    ”Security operatives will, therefore, remain in the affected councils to enforce the new directive with a view to further maintain law and order,” the governor added.

    Read Also: 110 held over looting in Adamawa

    Acxording to him, the new directive follows the return of peace and advice of the state security council.

    “The curfew was never declared to inflict hardship on our people in the first instance but to protect them and return normalcy to the affected areas.” he said.

    Fintiri advised the people to always channel their grievances to the appropriate authorities and resist the temptation of taking the law into their own hands.

    (NAN)

  • I’m giving birth to a daughter next year – CeeC

    I’m giving birth to a daughter next year – CeeC

    Lawyer-cum-reality TV star Cynthia Nwadiora aka CeeC has announced she’ll be having a child next year.

    CeeC indicated this in a chat with her fellow BBNaija All-Stars housemate, Seyi after he revealed he has a son.

    This came about after Seyi said his almost three-year-old toddler’s cuteness could drive CeeC into wanting to become a sugar mummy.

    But the ‘Spartans’ queen suggested that Seyi’s son would marry her unborn daughter, expressing certainty that she’d be arriving next year.

    Read Also: If we were outside I would have hired boys to beat up Alex – CeeC

    CeeC said: “I’m sure your son is so cute.”

    Seyi replied: “If you see him ehn, you go choose to be sugar mummy like this

    She noted: “He’ll marry my daughter. She’s coming. How old is he?”

    “He’ll be three this September”, the former ‘Pepper Dem’ housemate retorted.

    Finally CeeC stated: “Ah! He go marry my daughter. I dey born next year.”

  • Mireille Lasme pours heart into new single

    Mireille Lasme pours heart into new single

    Gospel artiste Love Mireille Lasme has immersed herself completely in her latest song “Your Grace.”

    The cofounder of the Church of God, believes her songs are her testimony, proof that when we walk faithfully with God; we can overcome any trial and challenges. 

    ‘With God all things are possible to him who believes,” the mother of three affirmed.

    Releasing the soul-stirring single “YOUR GRACE” Mireille explained: “As I reflect on my journey with Christ, my soul overflows with gratitude for one resounding word: “Grace.”

    “Indeed, I marvel at the thought, “Where would I be…” if it weren’t for your boundless grace, O Lord.”

    This captivating song serves as a poignant testament to God’s incomprehensible love for us, illuminating our path through life’s trials and triumphs.

    Mireille launches a highly anticipated album titled “YOU ARE HERE” produced by ace music producer, Manus Akpanke.

    “In moments of trial, you are here with me.

    Read Also: Single females that welcomed babies after BBNaija show

    When sickness lingers, you are here with me.

    Amidst my joys and happiness, you are here with me.

    “Embrace these words within your heart, knowing that trials are stepping stones to blessings, and from them flow our powerful testimonies. Hallelujah!

    “God’s unwavering presence accompanies us through every moment and in every place, so let us press on, unwavering in faith, for the best is yet to come.”

    “Your Grace” offers a captivating glimpse into the forthcoming album project, “You Are Here,” slated for release in September 2023. 

  • Single females that welcomed babies after BBNaija show

    Single females that welcomed babies after BBNaija show

    The Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) reality TV show, as a platform has brought together different personalities who forged relationships with some leading to marital bliss and others aborted.

    Among the participants too, there were singles and married with and without kids.

    These are three popular BBNaija stars who became mothers after the show.

    TBoss

    Big Brother Naija star, Tokunbo Idowu, popularly known as TBoss welcomed her daughter, Rumi in August 2019.

    TBoss, who was one of the top five finalists on the “See Gobe” 2017 edition of Big Brother Naija show, had rumours trailing the paternity of her baby.

    Following the child’s birth, there were several rumours as to who the father of the baby is but TBoss chose not to disclose this information to the public till date.

    Former Big Brother Africa Winner, Uti Nwachukwu, was also speculated to be TBoss’ child father, necessitating him to address the reports that she was expecting his child.

    Social media was agog on March 26, 2019 with rumours that Tboss was pregnant for the Reality TV star, Uti.

    It was alleged that Nwachukwu didn’t want to own up to being responsible for it.

    But reacting the next day, Uti refuted the claim. Alongside a picture of Tboss on his Instagram, Uti wrote: ”WCW ALL DAY EVERY DARN DAY.

    “Speculations/Assumptions will ALWAYS be the mother of all F Ups! But then again. it’s what we signed up for init? Regardless @officialtboss_ will always Be my WCW and #WCE period!

    “I always stand by who I support because Loyalty is rare in this industry and we are part of the chosen few with unique hearts. Keep Shining Beautiful! I de here to ALWAYS cheer you on.”

    Also, Tboss wrote: “Rumors are carried by haters, spread by fools and accepted by idiots. Don’t be an Idiot!!! Enough said.

    “My body is not your business, None at all.”

    In September 2020, the reality TV star revealed she had her baby via caesarean section, stating her reason for the same.

    In an Instagram post, the boss lady explained she was eager to meet her baby at the time, so she decided to have the child twelve days before her due date.

    She also explained how she had to choose between becoming a mother and continuing with the “celebrity lifestyle.”

    Queen Atang

    In December 2022, Big Brother Naija ex-housemate, Queen Mercy Atang took netizens by surprise after she showed off her baby bump, announcing that she was about to become a mother.

    “Looking forward to beginning this journey would be the best part of my life. It’s the dream of every woman to be a mother and I’ve had this dream for long. I’m grateful to God for this wonderful experience and for keeping me basking in His euphoria.

    Read Also: I don’t mind marrying a 60-year old man – BBNaija’s Angel Smith

    “The journey hasn’t been what the movies made it seem like. My experience I will share soon. For now, I can’t wait to be a mom”, the expectant mom wrote alongside photos unveiling her baby bump.

    Colleagues, celebrities, fans and followers thronged Atang’s post to leave heartfelt prayers and congratulatory messages for the soon-to-be new mom.

    Early January, the ‘Shine Ya Eye’ star had a private baby shower with close friends and family members.

    “PRIVATE BABY SHOWER. A private baby shower with the team and family. Sharing my happiness with the ones that love me genuinely”, she captioned the video.

    Although, she had kept her baby’s gender and arrival date from the public and media; it’s reported that she welcomed her child in January, 2023, soon after her private baby shower.

    The father of her baby is also reported to be popular skit maker, Kelvin Anagbogu, popularly known as Lord Lamba.

    Maria

    Motherhood came another for Big Brother Naija ‘Shine ya Eye’ star, Maria Chike Benjamin a couple of months after her colleague, Mercy Atang.

    She welcomed her first child, Jonathan Anthony Adegbotolu with her lover, Kelvin on July, 17, 2023.

    Earlier, she thrilled fans with an alluring maternity photo shoot in the company of her lover and soon-to-be baby daddy.

    The show host who kept her pregnancy away from the public eye, posted photos to announce the expected arrival of their bundle of love.

    She shared four pictures, the first three displayed her standing all by herself while the fourth captured her man too, standing behind her with his face visibly concealed.

    The month before that, Maria stunned many when she announced that she and her lover were expecting a baby.

    In the captivating video, she prayed her unborn child possessed a heart like the father’s, informing the baby of being the resulting outcome of the boundless love shared with the dad.

    While many drooled over the video with her baby daddy, urging her to ‘press necks’, others expressed surprise at her getting pregnant for the same Kelvin that earned her a call out from Cubana Chief Priest in 2022, who accused her of attempts to snatch his sister’s hubby and threatening her (his sister) while at it.

  • IPOB sacks Kanu’s counsel Ejimakor

    IPOB sacks Kanu’s counsel Ejimakor

    The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has sacked Nnamdi Kanu’s counsel, Aloy Ejimakor. 

    IPOB Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, who announced this in a statement on Tuesday, said that Ejimafor has ceased to be Kanu’s counsel. 

    He said: “The IPOB leadership the DOS henceforth declares Barr. Ejimakor a persona non grata. He must desist from parading himself as IPOB and Mazi Nnamdi Kanu counsel from this day.”

    He faulted Ejimafor’s public claim that Simon Ekpa and his supporters are followers of Nnamdi Kanu, adding that Ejimafor’s assumption that Ekpa has any connection with Kanu and IPOB amounts to playing script of his sponsors. 

    “Therefore, for Barr. Ejimakor and any other person to insinuate or assume that Simon Ekpa has any connection with Mazi Nnamdi KANU and IPOB is not only mischievous but playing the script of his sponsors which we the IPOB family are very much aware of because we know his antecedents. He never meant well for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu but only obsessed with how he can use the position of Special Counsel for personal aggrandizement.”

    Read Also: Troops destroy more IPOB/ESN camps in Anambra, Imo

    According to him: “Barr. Ejimakor is just one of the lawyers contracted to handle specific cases for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. He is not and has never been for the avoidance of doubt, the legal representative of the Indigenous People of Biafra as a movement. 

    “He is not an IPOB member. He has no reason to meddle into IPOB operations beyond the special legal matters that he was contracted to handle. He has no authority or permission from the IPOB’s Directorate of State to speak for IPOB outside the few legal matters assigned to him by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. 

    “Barrister Ejimakor has no idea what IPOB is fighting for and does not know IPOB’s modus operandi which is why he attempted to export his lack of knowledge of the inner workings of IPOB and his confused state of mind to the general public.” 

  • Kogi monarch hails Tinubu for nominating Uju Kennedy as Minister

    Kogi monarch hails Tinubu for nominating Uju Kennedy as Minister

    The Obobaniyi of Obeiba in Kogi State, Chief Samuel Rufus Onimisi, has hailed President Bola Tinubu, for nominating, who he described a beloved mother of Obeiba,  Uju Kennedy, for a ministerial position.

    He described Kennedy, a lawyer, as a remarkable individual whose exceptional qualities have left an indelible mark on the hearts of the people of Obeiba and beyond.  

    Her dedication to the welfare of the less privileged, her unwavering commitment to national development, and her detribalized nature have set her apart as a true icon of compassion and service,  Chief Onimisi added in a statement.

    The statement, which was released through a community leader, Garba Raji reads: “We, the people of Obeiba, hold Barr Uju Kennedy in the highest regard for her extraordinary act of generosity when she provided our community with a much-needed health center.  

    ‘’During a time when access to proper healthcare was scarce, her benevolent gesture illuminated a ray of hope in the lives of our people. The health center stands today as a living testament to her unwavering commitment to uplifting communities and improving the quality of life for all.

    ‘’Her hardworking nature and tireless efforts have been evident in her numerous accomplishments, both professionally and in service to humanity. As a detribalized leader, Barr Uju Kennedy’s vision transcends boundaries, uniting people from diverse backgrounds for the greater good of our nation.

    Read Also: Uju Ohanenye: Breaking gender bias

    ‘’To His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, we extend our sincere gratitude for recognizing the exceptional qualities of Barr Uju Kennedy and selecting her for a ministerial portfolio. Your visionary leadership gives us hope for a brighter future for Nigeria, and we are confident that under your guidance, our nation will continue to thrive.

    ‘’As the Obobanyi of Obeiba, I join hands with the people of Obeiba and the entire Ihima community to pledge our unwavering support for Barr Uju Kennedy in her new role as a minister. We believe that her presence in the upcoming cabinet will pave the way for remarkable progress and positive changes that will benefit all Nigerians.

    ‘’Once again, I express my heartfelt thanks to President Bola Tinubu for this deserving nomination, and I pray for Barr Uju Kennedy’s continued success in her noble endeavors for the betterment of our beloved nation’’, Chief Onimisi said.

  • FCMB Group Plc records 148% profit growth in HI 2023

    FCMB Group Plc records 148% profit growth in HI 2023

    FCMB Group Plc records positive financial performance across key indicators with a 148% growth in profit before tax of N38.2 billion from January to June this year, compared to N15.4 billion in the corresponding period of 2022.

    Highlights of the diversified Group’s unaudited six-month results released on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) floor showed that various divisions achieved robust earnings growth: Banking Group 185.5%, Consumer Finance 10.3%, Investment Management 53.3%, and Investment Banking 54.3%. In addition, FCMB Group’s gross revenue grew by 88.7% to N238.2 billion for June 2023, as against N126.2 billion for the same period in the previous year. This growth was driven by a 51.9% increase in interest income and a 216.9% increase in non-interest income.

    Commenting on the half-year financial results, the Group Chief Executive of FCMB Group Plc, Mr Ladi Balogun, said: “We continue to leverage our unique Group structure to build a technology-driven ecosystem that fosters inclusive and sustainable growth in the communities we serve. This strategy enables us to deliver robust performance despite the challenging domestic and global environment. Barring unforeseen circumstances, this trend will be sustained and accompanied by improving efficiencies arising from greater scale and ongoing digitization.”

    Customer confidence in FCMB Group remained strong, as deposits rose by 45.3% year-on-year to N2.38 trillion at the end of June, up from N1.64 trillion in the corresponding period of 2022, whilst Loans and advances also grew by 37.4% to N1.54 trillion, compared to N1.12 trillion in the previous period.

    The Group’s Assets Under Management (AUM) recorded an increase of 23.6% year-on-year to N910.3 billion at the end of June 2023, up from N736.4 billion at the end of June 2022.

    The half-year results also showed impressive performance in environmental, social, and corporate governance activities that contributed significantly to the society’s sustainable and inclusive growth.

    For instance, within the six months under review, FCMB Group contributed to food security and import substitution in Nigeria by growing lending to the agricultural sector by 18.4% to N174.0 billion from N147.4 billion for the full year 2022. Working with partners, access to finance was provided to 24,000 rural farmers, and the rehabilitation of 80,000 farming households was supported in the North-East geo-political zone of the country.

    In the area of climate action, the company successfully secured funding of up to N5 billion from local development finance institutions for on-lending to customers requiring solar energy solutions in line with its commitment to support renewable energy sources.

    FCMB effectively leveraged its banking business to drive foreign exchange flows by facilitating over $160 million and $81 million in export and remittance flows into the country, respectively, during the first half of 2023. The financial institution secured over N71.6 billion of funding from Development Finance Institutions (DFIs) and donor agencies at the end of June 2023, which was channelled to support the attainment of sustainable development goals in critical sectors of the economy.

    Read Also: FCMB okays N100m asset finance cash for SMEs

    By democratizing access to comprehensive financial services, FCMB Group acquired an additional 869,000 customers, thereby increasing its customer base to 11.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023, as against 10.1 million in the corresponding period of 2022.

    Digital banking initiatives continue to gain traction across the Group’s various businesses as users of its new mobile app that offers lending, wealth, and payment solutions grew by 20% year-on-year to 1.6 million. With an enlarged customer base, an expanded distribution platform, and the use of artificial intelligence to automate and optimize loan underwriting processes, the company disbursed over 3 million loans worth N105 billion to individuals, N5.2 billion to micro-enterprises, and N171 billion to Small and Medium Scale Enterprises. Seventy-eight thousand customers accessed retail investment products via FCMB’s digital channels. Similarly, its agency banking network grew to over 115,000 agents nationwide.

    FCMB Group is listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX). It serves over 11.7 million customers across four platforms: banking, consumer finance, investment management, and investment banking.

  • Alleged N2.475b fraud: Ogun Speaker gets nod for foreign medical trip

    Alleged N2.475b fraud: Ogun Speaker gets nod for foreign medical trip

    The Federal High Court sitting in Lagos on Tuesday granted leave to Ogun Speaker Taiwo Oluomo and two others to travel abroad for medical check up.

    Justice Nicholas Oweibo made the order following the defendants’ ex-parte application of July 26, 2023.

    The defendants were arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on September 6, 2022, for allegedly laundering N2.475billion.

    He and his co-defendants – Oladapo Samuel, Adeyemo Taiwo, and one Adeyanju Nimota Amoke (now at large) – were charged with 11 counts of conspiracy, forgery, stealing, and money laundering.

    Prosecution counsel Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) told the court that the defendants committed the alleged offences between 2019 and 2022, in Ogun State.

    Read Also: Probe begins on alleged N125b Oshodi Army Shopping Complex fraud

    Oyedepo alleged that they stole the N2.475b from the treasury of the Ogun State House of Assembly.

    On September 1, 2022, the EFFC filed the charge at the Federal High Court, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

    But the defendants were eventually arraigned before Justice Daniel Osiagor.

    They pleaded not guilty.

    Justice Osiagor granted Oluomo bail in the sum of N300m with two sureties in the like sum, one of whom must not be less than a level 16 civil servant in the federal civil service.

    The 2nd and 3rd defendants were granted bail in the sum of N100million each with two sureties each in the like sum, one of whom must not be less than level 14, civil service.

  • I’m still friendly with ex-husband’s estranged wife – Stella Damasus

    I’m still friendly with ex-husband’s estranged wife – Stella Damasus

    Veteran actress Stella Damasus has revealed she is still in close rapport with her ex-husband’s estranged first wife, Doris Simeon. 

    Speaking in a recent podcast with popular media personality, Teju Babyface, the actress clarified contrary to the belief of many, she is friendly with Doris.    

    According to her, Doris’s son, David whom she had with their ex-husband, Daniel Ademinokan made them bond so well as he was the common factor.       

    After divorcing Doris, he married Stella and took Doris’ only child with them to the US, where they resided, after a long battle, she regained custody of her son in 2019.

    Read Also: I found out my marriage ended on YouTube – Stella Damasus

    For the little boy, both women sought the best and found their common interests on that ground.

    Speaking on Doris, the former Nollywood actress said: “She is an intelligent, beautiful woman, she’s very talented. The impressions out there are crazy, the person I got to know even over the phone was totally different from the impression that was created in the first place. So we would talk about the by, never about the man”.