Author: The Nation

  • Sanwo-Olu appeals for continuous calm over cash scarcity

    Sanwo-Olu appeals for continuous calm over cash scarcity

    Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged Lagosians to remain calm despite the difficulties and frustrations being faced by all.

    He pleaded that ‘violence and destruction should not and will never be the answer’.

    Sanwo-Olu, who addressed reporters on Saturday, at the State House in Marina, admonished the people to be their brother’s keeper and ‘do everything we can to contribute to lessening the hardships faced by our fellow Lagosians’.

    He also warned against attacks on properties, whether public or private, saying ‘law enforcement agents have received clear instructions to take full control and ensure zero tolerance for any and all acts of arson, violence and destruction’.

    The Governor said: “My fellow Lagosians, this is a heartfelt call to you, as your governor, to please remain calm at this time, and avoid all forms of violence, arson and rioting. Even in the face of the difficulties and frustrations being faced by all, violence and destruction should not and will never be the answer.

    “We have noticed with dismay the rampant incidents surrounding some of the players in the financial services value chain (POS Agents/Operators); as well as petrol station attendants, who have taken the current challenges to mean an opportunity to extort hard working and law abiding Lagosians with extortionate service charges on funds withdrawal and sale of PMS. 

    “I appeal to those involved to desist from such sharp practices. This is not the period to sacrifice empathy, compassion, and humanity on the altar of profit making. 

    Read Also : Tinubu, Sanwo Olu ‘to get huge’ votes

    “To my good people of Lagos, please resist the opportunists who seek to take advantage of the anger and frustration that you all are feeling to hijack the situation and foment trouble.

    “We know there are unscrupulous persons who want to sow seeds of violence and discord by their very utterances and actions, all with the view of robbing you of the chance to cast your votes in the February 25 Presidential and National Assembly elections. Do not allow them to use you to achieve their evil intentions.

    “There is no justification whatsoever for attacking public or private property. The law enforcement agents have received clear instructions to take full control and ensure zero tolerance for any and all acts of arson, violence and destruction.

    “As a government that fully understands the challenges you are faced with, with regards to access to cash, we are working very hard to provide palliative measures to lessen the burdens being faced. As part of these measures, I have approved an immediate reduction in transportation charges for public- owned transport, across the state public transport system: our buses, ferries and taxis. 

    “We are also in discussion with private transport operators not to hike fares at this time. We have also since began the distribution of food packs, to the most vulnerable citizens, the people most impacted by this disruption in the supply of cash.

    ” We will continue to highlight more vulnerable groups within our distribution channels who would benefit from the palliatives.

    “The Lagos State government, under my watch, will continue to stand by, with and for the ordinary people of Lagos.”

  • Excited Borno residents out for APC presidential rally

    Excited Borno residents out for APC presidential rally

    Thousands of All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters have flooded the El-Kanami Stadium Maiduguri for kick off of the presidential rally in Maiduguri, Borno State.

    Borno State is the home of the APC vice presidential candidate Senator Kashim Shettima. 

    Shettima, who was a Governor for eight years,  represents Borno central in the National Assembly. 

    At the El-kanami Stadium, a sea of supporters are still trooping into the venue. 

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    The security operatives have been asked to allow people into the venue to witness the historic rally with Borno residents keen to show the strength of the APC in the State.

  • Excited APC supporters await kick off of presidential rallyin Borno

    Excited APC supporters await kick off of presidential rallyin Borno

    Thousands of All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters have flooded the El-Kanami Stadium Maiduguri for kick off of the presidential rally in Maiduguri, Borno State.

    Read Also:

    Borno State is the home of the APC vice presidential candidate Senator Kashim Shettima. 

    Shettima, who was a Governor for eight years,  represents Borno central in the National Assembly. 

  • PHOTOS: Massive crowd at APC presidential rally in Maiduguri

    PHOTOS: Massive crowd at APC presidential rally in Maiduguri

    PHOTOS: Massive crowd at APC presidential rally in Maiduguri

  • Christian Atsu found dead under Turkey earthquake rubble

    Christian Atsu found dead under Turkey earthquake rubble

    Ghanaian footballer Christian Atsu has been found dead in the earthquake rubble in Turkey.

    His manager, Murat Uzunmehmet, told DHA news agency on Saturday that his body had been found under the rubble in the Turkish southern province of Hatay.

    Read Also : Turkey earthquake: Girl survives 10 days under quake rubble

    He said: “We have reached his lifeless body. His belongings are still being removed. His phone was also found,” Uzunmehmet told DHA.

    The 31-year-old played for the Turkish Super league club Hatayspor and the Ghanaian National team.

  • JUST IN: Obasanjo’s in-law bags seven-year imprisonment

    JUST IN: Obasanjo’s in-law bags seven-year imprisonment

    Justice Mojisola Dada of an Ikeja Special Offences Court has sentenced former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s in-law Dr. John Abebe to seven-year imprisonment for laundering and forgery.

    Justice Dada however gave the convict an option of fine of N50million to be paid within 30days in lieu of imprisonment.

    The trial judge handed the judgement after it was established that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt and convicted him accordingly.

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Abebe, who is a younger brother to the late former First Lady, Stella Obasanjo for forgery.

    The prosecution led by Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) arraigned the convict on July 26, 2018 on a four-count charge of forgery, fabricating evidence, using fabricated evidence and attempt to pervert the course of justice before the Special Offences Court in Ikeja.

    The EFCC, in the charges, claimed that Abebe “knowingly forged” a November 30, 1995 letter written by BP Exploration Nigeria Limited to Inducon (Nigeria) Limited.

    The anti-graft agency claimed that the businessman “illegally inserted” into page 2 of the said letter “the following statement: “Also note that the ‘Buy-Out Option’ only applies to the pre-production stage of the NPIA. The $4m buy-out is thus irrelevant from production of oil in any of our fields.”

    Read Also : My trial a witch hunt, John Abebe tells court

    According to the EFCC, Dr. Abebe also attempted to “pervert the course of justice” by tendering the allegedly forged November 30, 1995 letter “as a fabricated evidence” in court, in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/224/2010 between Dr. John Abebe, Inducon Nigeria Limited and Statoil Nigeria Limited.

    An oil company, Statoil Nigeria Limited had on June 22, 2010, accused Dr Abebe of forgery.

    Statoil Nigeria Limited had alleged that the defendant forged parts of a Net Profit Interest Agreement (NPIA) dated November 30, 1995, which was drafted by British Petroleum (BP).

  • Naira swap: El-Rufai spoke the truth, says Fani-Kayode

    Naira swap: El-Rufai spoke the truth, says Fani-Kayode

    All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council (APC-PCC) Director, New Media, Mr. Femi Fani-Kayode Saturday backed Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai‘s stance on the Naira swap controversy.

    Fani-Kayode described El-Rufai as the ‘hero of the moment’.

    El-Rufai, in a statewide broadcast on Thursday night insisted that the N500 and N1,000 notes remain legal tender in his state until and unless the Supreme Court declares otherwise.

    His position deferred with that of President Muhammadu Buhari, who despite admitting awareness of the judicial intervention in the matter, disregarded the apex court’s order in part and directed that only the old N200 is legal tender.

    The governor also opined that the aim of the Naira redesign was to scuttle the general elections in order to allow an interim government led by a retired army general.

    The Federal Government on Friday said the allegation was untrue.

    Fani-Kayode, in a series of tweets via his verified handle @realFFK, said El-Rufai had spoken truth to power.

    Read Also : Between El Rufai and Lai Muhammed

    He criticised those ‘plotting’ to scuttle the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu in the polls slated for next week Saturday saying they had failed.

    The ex-minister also referenced the position of APC-PCC spokesperson, Festus Keyamo as a confirmation of El-Rufai’s comments.

    Fani-Kayode said: “The hero of the moment is Nasir El Rufai. He has spoken the truth.

    “Festus Keyamo confirmed that truth in a most eloquent and courageous manner on Channels TV’s ‘Politics Today’ last night.

    “Those that hatched and plotted the conspiracy to stop BAT and that are attempting to set our nation ablaze and destroy our democracy have failed.

    “Next Saturday this matter will finally be concluded, the hopes of the conspirators shall be dashed and our collective enemies shall not only be roundly humiliated and convincingly defeated but also confined to the dustbin of history.

    “Never forget that we are WARRIORS, we have NO fear and we always win!

    “Bola Ahmed Tinubu SHALL, by the grace of God, be the next President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria!”

  • My clothing line celebrates pop culture – DJ Flava

    My clothing line celebrates pop culture – DJ Flava

    Azeez Jagun a.k.a DJ Flava is not always behind the wheel of steel strutting his stuff. He is also an accomplished fashion designer who embodies his love for music in his fashion brand.

    According to him, his love for music defines his life and so is fine with which he has made as much a good name as in music.

    Introducing himself in a chat, he said: “I’m an international multi-genre DJ with many years of experience. I have played around the world in about 25 countries so far experiencing great culture and humanity.

    “I also have a clothing line that celebrates pop culture with an inclusion of themed street-style. Music and the fashion business really fascinated me throughout my school days in Nigeria and it kept me motivated.”

    DJ Flava, who is based in Dubai, has made his mark in the music landscape for close to a decade and said he launched his clothing line 8 years ago.

    He describes himself as an international disc jockey because he has travelled far and wide, displaying his craft to the delight of audiences across the world.

    “I host and play from time to time at diverse clubs in Dubai, United Kingdom, Malaysia, Indonesia, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Myanmar, South Africa, Uganda, Rwanda, Turkey, Georgia, Cyprus, Mozambique and the list goes on,” he said.

    Read Also : DJ Spinall speaks on new album Top Boy

    For him, music and fashion go hand-in-hand and this is the essence that has underscored his very existence and uniqueness.

    He said he launched his endorsed clothing line, @flavamusic_merchandise 8 years ago, alongside his personal account, @deejay_flava.

    “I have over time fashioned different collections with social and environmental themes, culture appreciation themes and all my collections are available on Instagram @flavamusic_merchandise as well as my personal account, @deejay_flava.

    “I recently re-created my winter all-over logo tracksuit in white and black colours with a touch of street style. I also buy and sell cars internationally and have them delivered at various locations across the world. As for my clothing line, we take orders and deliver across the world.”

  • The Role of Education in Shaping Future Business Leaders

    The Role of Education in Shaping Future Business Leaders

    Education builds fundamental skills and mindsets. Aspiring business leaders need them to navigate today’s complex business world. As industries change and new global challenges arise, education is vital. It must shape future leaders. This article looks at how education shapes business leaders and their skills. It also examines the changing world of business education.

    The Importance of Education for Business Leadership

    Education is key to critical thinking, creativity, and ethics. These are vital for good leaders. Business leaders must analyze situations, identify problems, and implement solutions. Education improves these skills. It urges students to think rationally and handle issues. For example, Harvard Business School utilizes the case study method. It permits students to tackle real-world problems and refine their analytical skills. The importance of education for business leadership is evident as it provides a foundation for strategic decision-making. If you’re looking to enhance your writing on this topic, paper writers cheap can offer valuable insights and support. Every student can get qualified writing help. It helps to be better in any field.

    To succeed in today’s crazy market, one needs to think creatively and come up with new ideas. When schools let students try new things and take risks, they’re more likely to become leaders. They learn to think differently and come up with unique ideas. Google and Apple show that an innovative culture creates great products. This highlights the need for education that fosters creative thinking.

    As business leaders face more ethical dilemmas, education is highly needed. It helps build a sense of moral responsibility. Exposure to diverse cultures helps future leaders. It shows them the impact of their decisions. Institutions like INSEAD emphasize ethical leadership. They prepare students to tackle complex social issues. Their goal is to make decisions that benefit both their organizations and society. Education is important for leadership development. It gives individuals the skills and views to lead well in a fast-changing world.

    Essential Skills and Competencies for Future Business Leaders

    To thrive in an ever-changing business environment, future leaders must possess a diverse set of skills and competencies. These include:

    • Critical thinking and problem-solving: The capacity to assess intricate scenarios and develop practical solutions.
    • Creativity and innovation: The talent for developing novel concepts and methods that propel business growth.
    • Ethical decision-making: A firm set of moral principles that helps leaders make responsible choices.
    • Effective communication: The ability to communicate ideas and unite diverse teams.
    • Adaptability and resilience: the capability to cope with transformation and recover from disappointments.
    • Strategic thinking: The prediction to foresee trends and prepare long-term plans for prosperity.
    • Financial acumen: A substantial awareness of financial ethics and business management routines.

    The Role of Formal and Informal Education

    Both formal and informal education are key to growing future business leaders. Top CEOs around the world, like Tim Cook from Apple and Sundar Pichai from Google, have high-level degrees – we’re talking MBAs. These programs provide a supportive environment. Students can pick up vital business skills and become better leaders. Stanford’s Graduate School of Business is all about fostering entrepreneurship and encouraging innovation. It prepares students to lead in rival markets.

    Informal learning experiences hold great value alongside formal education. Getting advice from experienced mentors can help future leaders understand things that textbooks might not cover. Also, attending workshops, conferences, and networking events helps future leaders. It expands their knowledge and builds key relationships. The role of formal and informal education is essential in developing well-rounded leaders who can adapt to various challenges. For those researching this topic, a thesis writing service can offer assistance in crafting a comprehensive analysis of how both educational approaches contribute to leadership development.

    The Challenges and Opportunities of Online and Blended Learning

    Online and blended learning have changed education. They offer challenges and opportunities for future business leaders. Online programs have made high-quality education widely accessible. They allow people from diverse backgrounds to pursue business studies. This change has made education possible for lots of people who couldn’t get into regular schools.

    Online learning is flexible. It helps students balance school with work and personal commitments. This adaptability helps professionals improve their skills without disrupting their careers. It is very useful for career preparation. Also, online platforms can tailor learning to individual needs. They can use adaptive tech to adjust content and pace based on student performance. This method can boost learning and success for aspiring leaders.

    Examples of Successful Business Education Programs

    Several renowned business schools exemplify educational impact on developing future leaders. Each institution offers unique strengths that contribute to shaping effective business leaders:

    Harvard Business School

    • Curriculum: Known for its rigorous curriculum that emphasizes practical application.
    • Teaching Method: Uses real-life examples to help students tackle tricky problems and develop sharp thinking skills.

    Stanford Graduate School of Business

    • Focus Areas: Specializes in innovation and entrepreneurship.
    • Culture: Creates an environment where individuals can think creatively and strategically. Encourage learners try new things and find their own way..

    INSEAD

    • Global Perspective: A global business school with campuses in France, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi.
    • Diversity: Features a diverse student body, enhancing cross-cultural understanding.
    • Emphasis: It focuses on international business and ethical leadership. Prepares students to face complex global challenges.

    The Future of Business Education

    As the business world changes, business education will likely focus on key trends. As technology advances and markets shift, continuous education will be vital. Business leaders must adopt a lifelong learning mindset to stay relevant and effective.

    As tech becomes vital to business, schools must teach data analytics, AI, and digital tools. This integration will give future leaders the skills to use technology for smart decision-making. As stakeholders demand responsible business, education must stress sustainability and social impact. Programs that prepare leaders to tackle environmental issues will be vital. They must also promote ethical practices. These programs will shape the future of business.

    Education is a vital component in developing the next generation of business leaders. By fostering critical thinking and creativity, schools prepare future leaders for the complex business world. They also teach ethical choices. As the world changes, education’s role in shaping future leaders will grow. It must prepare them for tomorrow’s challenges.

  • Top 10 Most Valuable NBA Trade Assets: Who Could Be Key to the Next Big Trade?

    Top 10 Most Valuable NBA Trade Assets: Who Could Be Key to the Next Big Trade?

    In the world of the NBA, trade assets are like currency that can shift the balance of power in the league and affect odds at bookmakers like Mostbet and others in the race for the championship. Whether it’s young talents, promising draft picks, or veterans with favorable contracts, the right assets can be the key to building a championship-contending team. In this article, we will explore the ten most valuable NBA trade assets at the moment, which could play a crucial role in future trades.

    1. Phoenix Suns’ 2027/2029 First-Round Draft Picks (via Houston)

    The control over future draft picks from the Suns provides the Rockets with immense maneuvering opportunities in the trade market. These picks could be a key element in a deal for a superstar. Given the uncertainty surrounding Phoenix’s future after the contracts of their current stars expire, these picks could end up being high lottery selections.

    2. Brandin Podziemski, Golden State Warriors

    The 21-year-old versatile guard is already showcasing impressive stats and a well-rounded game. His ability to rebound, pass, and defend at a high level makes him a potential star. With three years remaining on his rookie contract, Podziemski represents an ideal mix of talent and financial value.

    3. Jaime Jaquez Jr., Miami Heat

    The versatile forward with excellent two-way skills and three years remaining on his rookie contract makes Jaquez a very attractive asset. His ability to fill gaps in the lineup is valued by many teams. Jaquez displays a rare combination of athleticism, basketball IQ, and versatility, making him a potential cornerstone for a franchise.

    4. Los Angeles Lakers’ 2029/2031 First-Round Draft Picks

    The Lakers’ long-term draft picks are of significant interest to teams willing to wait. The uncertainty surrounding the franchise’s future post-LeBron era makes these picks potentially very valuable. Given the Lakers’ history of attracting stars, these picks could be a goldmine for teams looking for rebuilding assets.

    5. Cason Wallace, Oklahoma City Thunder

    The young guard with outstanding defensive skills and offensive potential. Three years on a favorable rookie contract add value to Wallace as a trade asset. His ability to guard against top opposing players makes him a valuable addition for any championship-contending team.

    6. Atlanta Hawks’ 2027 First-Round Draft Pick (via San Antonio)

    The Hawks’ long-term draft pick is intriguing due to the uncertainty surrounding the franchise’s future. The Spurs could use this asset in a deal for a star player. Considering potential roster changes for Atlanta in the coming years, this pick could turn out to be very valuable.

    7. Los Angeles Clippers’ 2031 First-Round Draft Pick

    This distant draft pick from the Clippers is of great interest due to the uncertainty surrounding the franchise’s future. With key players aging, the Clippers might be in a rebuilding phase by 2031, making this pick potentially very valuable.

    8. Los Angeles Clippers’ 2026 First-Round Draft Pick (via Oklahoma City)

    A closer-in-time pick from the Clippers is also of interest. Given the team’s championship ambitions and the age of their stars, this pick could be high in the draft if the Clippers struggle to maintain competitiveness.

    9. Lu Dort, Oklahoma City Thunder

    An elite perimeter defender with an improving shot and a favorable contract. Dort could be an excellent addition to a championship-contending team. His ability to defend against top opponents and growing offensive efficiency make him a valuable asset.

    10. Phoenix Suns’ 2031 First-Round Draft Pick

    This distant draft pick from the Suns is intriguing due to the uncertainty surrounding the franchise’s long-term future. By 2031, the current stars of the team will likely no longer be at their peak, making this pick potentially very valuable for teams willing to wait.

    How These Assets Could Impact the League

    Valuable trade assets provide teams with flexibility in roster building. They can be used to acquire superstars, strengthen rosters for playoff pushes, or stockpile young talent for the future.

    For example, the Houston Rockets, with the Suns’ draft picks, gain the opportunity to compete for any available NBA star. The Golden State Warriors and Miami Heat could leverage their young players to enhance their rosters around veterans.

    Teams holding distant draft picks, like the Oklahoma City Thunder with the Clippers’ pick, have the opportunity for long-term planning and can use these assets for gradual talent accumulation.

    It is important to note that the value of these assets can change rapidly. Injuries, player development, or franchise plans can significantly impact their attractiveness in the market. For instance, if Phoenix or the Lakers manage to stay competitive longer than expected, their future draft picks might lose some of their value.