The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Ex-Osun PDP chairman Rasaq dies

    Mr. Ademola Rasaq, former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Osun State is dead.

    He was aged 53.

    The Publicity Secretary of the party in Osun, Mr. Bola Ajao, confirmed the death in a chat with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the party secretariat in Osogbo.

    Ajao said “the former chairman died in the early hours of today (Thursday) in Ibadan as a result of heart conditions.

    “He developed heart complications at the break of dawn and was driven to University College Hospital, Ibadan, by Bayo “Ijebu” his driver.

    “It was at the UCH in Ibadan that he was confirmed dead.’’

    The publicity secretary said “we have lost a true leader, a grassroots politician who was ready to carry everybody along.’’

    “The party has dispatched vehicles to Ibadan to convey the corpse of the late politician to Osun.

    “We are discussing with the family to fine tune where to bury him immediately and other issues, as he is a Muslim.’’

    NAN reports that workers at the PDP Secretariat in Osogbo were seen in groups discussing the incident, while some were weeping.

     

     

  • French priest kidnapped in Cameroon

    A French priest has been kidnapped in northern Cameroon, and checks are under way to establish the circumstances and the identity of the kidnappers, the French Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.

    Reuters quoting the ministry reports that Georges Vandenbeusch was seized on Wednesday night in the region of Koza, some 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the Nigerian border, an area considered to be at high risk for kidnappings

     

  • Omeruo happy to return after ‘difficult time’

    Omeruo happy to return after ‘difficult time’

    Super Eagles defender, Kenneth Omeruo, has declared that he cannot wait to return to action for the Super Eagles after “a difficult time” out with injury.

    The Chelsea defender is fully back from a shoulder injury after he last featured for the Eagles in the FIFA Confederations Cup in June.

    “I am very happy to be back. I cannot wait to wear the national colours,” he told MTNFootball.com.

    “It was a difficult time for me, but I am happy now that I am back and ready to go.

    “I want to thank all Nigerians for their prayers and especially our coach (Stephen Keshi) who was in touch with me regularly during the period of my injury.”

    Omeruo is expected to resume his partnership with Godfrey Oboabona in the heart of the Eagles defence against Ethiopia in Calabar on Saturday.

    “We have an advantage from the first leg but we still want to win on Saturday to qualify for the World Cup,” the defender said of the playoff clash against Ethiopia.

    Omeruo’s agent Obinna Emelogu confirmed to MTNFootball.com the player is match fit and in high spirits after his prompt recall to the national team.

     

     

  • Brazilian Supreme court upholds corruption jail terms

    Brazil’s Supreme Court has upheld jail terms against most of the politicians, businessmen and bankers convicted in the country’s biggest corruption trial.

    BBC reports that more than 20 people were convicted over a scheme to pay opposition politicians for supporting the former government of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

    The court did not say exactly how many would be put behind bars.

    But among them is Mr. Lula’s former chief of staff, Jose Dirceu, who was sentenced to 10 years and 10 months.

    Also facing time in jail are the former chairman of the governing Workers Party (PT), Jose Genoino, and former party treasurer Delubio Soares, court officials told the Agence France-Presse news agency.

    Mr. Lula was not implicated in the case.

    The central allegation of the case was that illegal payments and benefits were paid to members of Congress in return for supporting the government in crucial votes.

    The “Mensalao” (big monthly allowance) scandal came to light in 2005 but the sentences were handed down at the end of 2012.

    The trial was seen as a key test of Brazil’s ability to hold its politicians to account for corruption.

    Mr. Lula left office at the end of 2010 with huge approval ratings and remains a popular figure in Brazilian political life.

     

  • Reps to probe killing of Nigerian in India

    The House of Representatives on Wednesday condemned the brutal murder of a Nigerian by Indian nationals in Goa, India.

    It has also mandated its committees on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Matters to investigate circumstances surrounding the killing as well as the subsequent illegal incarceration of 53 Nigerians in Indian prisons.

    This decision of the House was sequel to the adoption of the prayers of a motion brought on the floor under Matters of urgent national Importance by a member, Hon. Yusuf Ayo Tajudeen.

    Tajudeen while arguing the motion said one Nigerian was allegedly killed and five others severely wounded on October 31, in the Goa region of India by people suspected to be members of a local drug cartel.

    He said following peaceful and legitimate protest by Nigerians against the murder of their compatriot, the police acting on the orders of Goa’s Chief Minister, Manohar Parrikar, forcefully arrested and incarcerated 53 Nigerians living and working in the region.

    The lawmaker expressed worry that the Indian official further issued directive to the police to commence clampdown and possible deportation of Nigerians in the resort state of India.

    “This unfortunate incident may affect the economic fortunes and social relevance of over 50,000 Nigerians engaged in legitimate and lawful business in India,” he said.

     

  • Fashola approves contract for rail project extension

    Fashola approves contract for rail project extension

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN), has approved the award of contract for the extension of the ongoing construction of Blue line lite rail project from National Theatre to Marina.

    The Managing Director, Lagos Metropolitan Transport Management Authority (LAMATA), Dr. Dayo Mabereola, disclosed this on Wednesday at a forum organized by members of the Lagos State Governor’s Office Correspondents (LAGOCO) at the state secretariat, Ikeja.

    The briefing took place as part of activities marking the 2013 Press Week.

    Mabereola said the project being undertaken by LAMATA was awarded on Tuesday by the governor, adding that it would help facilitate movement from Mile 2 to Marina.

    He said though the project awarded to the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) is very expensive considering the terrain involved, he said on completion, it would help reduce traffic congestion and ease the burden of traffic witnessed daily on the route by residents.

    The LAMATA boss, who spoke on the topic, “LAMATA at 10: Challenges, Successes and Prospects,” assured residents of plans to evolve an ultra-modal mode of transportation that would be easily accessible by residents.

    “Gradually, people of Lagos have been abandoning Danfo and Molue buses for BRT. We have been reducing waiting time at bus stops, the travel time within the metropolis and we equally reduced transport fare by 40 percent compared to the service being rendered by yellow buses. ”

    He explained that the agency has developed a 20-year transportation developmental plan that covers bus, rail and ferry service including provision of good roads for BRT system to run well.

    He said part of the plan was the introduction of electronic ticketing system as against the previous paper ticketing system.

     

  • PDP will collapse if I’m not reinstated – Oyinlola

    PDP will collapse if I’m not reinstated – Oyinlola

    The embattled National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, has predicted the end of the party if he is not reinstated.

    The Court of Appeal, Abuja had last Wednesday, ordered his reinstatement as National Secretary but the leadership of the party suspended him instead.

    At a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Oyinlola declared:”If I am not reinstated, it would mean the end of the PDP in Nigeria. I will brief my legal team for the next line of action if they fail to comply with the ruling of the court.”

    Oyinlola faulted claims by the leadership of the party that they were yet to be served a copy of the ruling, saying that their lawyer was in court on the day of the judgment.

    Describing the claim as an afterthought, Oyinlola said the Bamanga Tukur led PDP did not wait for a copy of the January 11 judgment of the Federal High Court that ousted him before swearing-in a replacement.

    “They did not accept service at the party secretariat so I forwarded electronic copies to the National Legal Adviser, Mr. Victor Kwom and the National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh.

    “Serving them a copy of the ruling was meant to fulfill all righteousness because they are fully aware of the judgment. Tukur cannot claim ignorant of the judgment,” Oyinlola stated.

    He accused Tukur of running the party like a subsidiary of his private company, regretting that instead of seeing the ruling as an opportunity to reconcile aggrieved members, the chairman has decided to create more crises in the party.

     

     

  • Jobs of the day

    Graduate Reservation Officer at Aero Contractors Airline

    Aero Contractors Airline – A well respected aviation service provider in the rotary wing (helicopter) offshore oil and gas sector plus the fixed wing scheduled and charter passenger sector. Aero is uniquely placed in the Nigerian market to offer both rotary and fixed wing services to the highest international standards of safety.

    Job Title: Reservation Officer
    Job Purpose
    Responsible for providing excellent services to customers in terms of ticketing reservations and aero product to generate sales and ensure customer satisfaction and loyalty.
    Effect reservations & ticketing for all Aero clients to generate sales.
    Fare quotes to all Aero clients to provide the best applicable fares and generate sales.
    Reconciliation of sales returns to accounts for daily sales.
    Promote all Aero products to create awareness and generate sales.
    Answer inquiries regarding information such as schedules and procedures.
    Determine space availability on travel dates requested by customers and assign/sell such when available.

    Qualifications (MINIMUM)
    A good university degree/HND in any of the Social Sciences or Business Management Disciplines.
    Experience
    1-3yrs experience in Ticketing, Sales or Customer Service.
    Competencies
    Knowledge of basic airline fares and ticketing
    Knowledge of cash handling and debit card transaction
    Knowledge of air kiosk
    Excellent Customer service skills
    Excellent oral and written communication skills
    Ability to handle stressful situations
    Detail oriented and accurate
    Ability to perform basic mathematics
    Ability to work under minimal supervision
    Added Advantage
    Ability to speak and understand the local Language.
    Application Closing Date
    15th November, 2013

    Method of Application
    Interested and qualified candidates should forward their application plus detailed CV to: careers@acn.aero

    2.  Class Hospitality Limited Job Vacancies

    We are a top flight firm in the Health sector based in Ikeja, Lagos and owing to expansion; we hereby require the services of experienced professionals to consolidate our consortium of medical personnel;

    Location: Lagos
    1.) General Manager
    2.) Operations Manager
    3.) Night Duty Manager
    4.) Accountant
    5.) Secretary / Personal Assistant
    6.) Store Keeper/Purchasing Officer Female
    7.) Chef
    8.) Food & Beverage Supervisor
    9.) Front Office Supervisor
    10.) Marketers & Sales Executives
    11.) Protocol Officers
    12.) Receptionist
    13.) Porter
    14.) Barman/Waiter/Waitress
    15.) Cook
    16.) Kitchen Attendant
    17.) Laundryman/Washerman/Pressers
    18.) Housekeepers
    19.) Drivers
    20.) Maintenance Officer (R & A / Plumbers)

    General Requirement
    Minimum of OND/HND with at least 2 years work experience. Must be computer literate.
    Application Closing Date
    26th November, 2013

    How to Apply
    Interested and qualified candidates should send their hand written applications in person to:

    The Human Resources Manager,
    Class Hospitality Limited,
    3, Anu Oluwapo Close,
    Off Agbaoku Street, Awosika Bus Stop,
    Beside Tastee Fried Chicken,
    Opebi, Ikeja, Lagos.

    3. School Job Vacancies

    A reputable Nursery and Primary School in Abuja, urgently needs the services of the following individuals:

    1.) Music Teacher
    2.) Diction/Phonics Teacher
    3.) ICT Teacher
    4.) French Language Teacher
    5.) Experienced and Committed School Administrator

    Location: Abuja

    Requirement

    All applicants must be adequately qualified Teachers.
    A minimum of the Nigerian Certificate of Education (NCE) and not less than 3 years cognate experience.
    Remuneration
    Salaries and conditions of service are very attractive.
    Application Closing Date
    30th November, 2013

    How to Apply
    Interested and qualified candidates should send their applications with current CV’s to: aybmann@yahoo.com

    3. Accountant at Center for Psychological Medicine

    Center for Psychological Medicine – We are a fast growing “Center for Psychological Medicine” based within the Abuja metropolis of international repute and currently retain the services of a robust mixture of highly competent local and international trained professionals that provide excellent, client focused services.
    Our core expertise are providing psychological, counseling services, inpatient facilities/ treatment, day hospital, rehabilitation, community care etc.

    Due to the expansion our facility and services there’s need to recruit a Degree “QUALIFIED CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT” with ACA or ACCA and the following attributes.

    Job Title: Accountant
    Location: Abuja

    Responsibilities
    The accountant is responsible for applying accounting principles and procedures to analyze financial information, prepare accurate and timely financial reports and statements and ensure appropriate accounting control procedures.
    The candidate should be a Chartered Accountant / professional that would be responsible for auditing the financial statements of the company.
    He is responsible for providing accounting and financial advisory services to the Organisation.
    Compile and analyze financial information to prepare financial statements including weekly, monthly and end of year financial report.
    Ensure financial records are maintained in compliance with accepted policies and procedures
    Ensure all financial reporting deadlines are met (Weekly, monthly, quarterly and annually)
    Prepare financial management reports
    Ensure accurate and timely monthly, quarterly and year end close
    Establish and monitor the implementation and maintenance of accounting control procedures
    Resolve accounting discrepancies and irregularities
    Continuous management and support of budget and forecast activities
    Monitor and support taxation issues
    Develop and maintain financial data bases
    Financial audit preparation and coordinate the audit process
    Ensure accurate and appropriate recording and analysis of revenues and expenses
    Analyze and advise on business operations including revenue and expenditure trends, financial commitments and future revenues
    Analyze financial information to recommend or develop efficient use of resources and procedures, provide strategic recommendations and maintain solutions to business and financial problems.
    Conduct regular meetings and interaction with Management and also offering financial advice.
    Proper handling of business and trade policies
    Requirements
    A degree qualified Chartered Accountant should possess an ACA or ACCA
    from a relevant accounting training Institute after obtaining a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Accounting , Economics , Commerce , Business Administration from a recognised University .
    Knowledge of accepted accounting practices and principles
    Knowledge of economic principles
    Knowledge of auditing practices and principles
    Knowledge of applicable laws, codes and regulations
    Knowledge and experience of related computer applications
    A minimum of 4 years experience in the management of financial systems and budgets, financial reporting, financial data analysis, auditing, taxation and providing financial advice
    You should have an acute presence of mind
    Ability to think beyond limits
    Attention to detail and accuracy
    Planning and organizing
    Strong communication skills
    Information and task monitoring
    Proactive problem solving approach
    Judgement and problem-solving
    Continuous learning skill
    Stress tolerance.
    AGE : 27 – 40 years
    Application Closing Date
    30th November, 2013

    Method Of Application
    Interested and qualified candidates should send their applications to: recruitment@synapseservices.org
    Note: the subject of the email should be “Accountant” failure to abide by this would lead to automatic disqualification.

    4. Animal Nutritionist in an Agro-Allied Company

    A leading Agro-Allied Company in Nigeria as a result of its strategic market expansion, requires the services of dynamic, self motivated and result oriented candidates for the vacant position;

    Job Title: Animal Nutritionist
    Requirement
    The preferred candidate must have field and laboratory experience in analysis of animal feeds and feedstuff. Five years experience and a masters degree will be an added advantage.

    Application Closing Date
    26th November, 2013

    Method of Application
    Interested candidates should forward their application and CV to:
    ghrm2012@yahoo.com

    5. Information Technology Executive in a Leading Logistics/Haulage Company

    A fast moving Vehicle Dealership and Logistics/Haulage company. Recent dynamics in the enterprise has created opportunities for qualified candidates to fill the following positions in a challenging and highly competitive work environment. Only those who are self starters, highly driven and hungry for success need apply.

    We are recruiting to fill the position below:
    Job Position: Information Technology Executive

    Job Ref: ITE/FRL/13
    Location: Enugu
    Reports to: Head Corporate Communications

    Job Description
    Plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate the operations of information systems and electronic data processing (EDP).
    Develop and implement policies and procedures for electronic data processing and computer systems operations and development.
    Meet with managers to discuss system requirements, specifications, costs and timelines.
    Manage information systems personnel and contractors to design, develop, implement, operate and administer computer and telecommunications software, networks and information systems.
    Application Closing Date
    26th November, 2013

    How to Apply
    Interested and qualified candidates should submit the electronic copies of their updated curriculum vitae and passport picture to: fortvivit@yahoo.com

  • Atiku to executive, legislature: Respect your boundaries

    Atiku to executive, legislature: Respect your boundaries

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said the executive and legislature arms of government should respect the boundaries of their constitutionally defined powers and responsibilities in order to avoid long-drawn out conflicts, which might impede governance.

    The former vice president stated this in his paper on “Political parties and Legislative Autonomy” at the 2013 Africa Legislative Summit held in Abuja.

    Atiku noted that while the struggle for power between the executive and the legislature is normal, the larger national interest should be allowed to take precedence over their egos.

    According to him, the people of Nigeria would be served better if the different arms of government are guided by national interest rather than egos.

    He noted that even in the United States such conflicts between the executive and legislative branches do exist.

    He, however, advised that “compromises are key to serving the national interest and avoiding a gridlock.”

    He explained that attempts to supplant the power or roles of each other could plant the seeds of conflict and that such temptation should be avoided.

    On the theme of the Summit, which relates to “political parties and legislative autonomy,” Atiku said legislators were elected in their own right and the idea of expecting them to follow the party line was a potential source of conflict.

    He also reiterated his support for a two-party system for the country, which he said, is more suited for Nigeria’s peculiar circumstances.

    Two-party system, he said, “would help to narrow the differences among parties” and remove the traditional fault-lines in our political system.

     

     

     

     

     

  • ASUU suspends NEC meeting indefinitely

    The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) meeting scheduled to hold on Wednesday at the Bayero University Kano (BUK) has been suspended indefinitely by the National Executive Council (NEC).

    The ASUU National President, Dr. Nasir Fagge, who made the disclosure, while briefing journalists in Kano, said the union deemed it necessary to suspend the meeting following the sudden death of its former president, Prof. Festus Iyayi, in a ghastly auto crash in Lokoja on Monday.

    Fagge, who described Iyayi’s death as a great loss to the country, said the deceased was a strong pillar of the union.

    He said, ‘’You (journalists) have to bear with us because we are in a mourning mood over the loss of one of us, who was a strong pillar.”

    A BUK student who spoke to journalists on condition of anonymity, expressed sadness at the announcement, adding that, ‘’we are not happy with the situation because we have over stayed at home,” he said.