The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • NPFL Play-off delays Super Eagles list for Sierra Leone

    NPFL Play-off delays Super Eagles list for Sierra Leone

    The on-going Nigeria Premier Football League Championship Play-Off might have delayed the unveiling of the 23-man Super Eagles list for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations(AFCON) qualifier against Sierra Leone.

    Nigeria will be away to Sierra Leone on June 18 in reverse Group A fixture after the Super Eagles beat the Leone Stars 2-1 in their opening game 9th June 2022.

    While the West African opponent have since released the squad to face Nigeria in the forthcoming fixture , it has been reliably gathered last night that coach Jose Peseiro is looking at the possibility of getting at least two players from the on-going Super six play off in Lagos before tidying up his 23 list.

    Our correspondent learnt the Portuguese coach has already listed 19 foreign-based professionals as well as two players from the coach Ladan Bosso’s Flying Eagles team that crashed out of the FIFA U20 World Cup Argentina 2023 in the quarter finals on Sunday.

    ” The list of the Super Eagles for the match against Sierra Leone is almost ready to the best of my knowledge,” a reliable at the Nigeria Football Federation(NFF) told NationSport last night.” What is delaying the list is the ongoing NPFL Championship play-off because they want to add at least two other home-based players from the tournament.

    Read Also: NPFL Super 6: Enyimba secure first as River s United, Insurance record draws

    “ I’m aware they have listed 19 foreign-based players as well as two players from the Flying Eagles; and I think what is left are the two players to be picked from the NPFL Super 6 in Lagos.”

    The super Eagles list against Sierra Leone may yet be populated with the usual suspects including the likes of Victor Osimhen after his record-breaking season with Napoli as well as Samuel Chukwueze and Taiwo Awoniyi that impressed with their respective clubs in the La Liga and EPL this season.

    Nigeria currently top the Group A section on nine points from four matches and are closely followed by guinea Bissau on seven points while Sierra Leone are third with five points with São Tomé and Príncipe in rear position with just one point.

  • Flood claims mother of five in Anambra

    Flood claims mother of five in Anambra

    A middle-aged woman has died in a flood incident following downpour in Oko, Orumba North Local government Area of Anambra State.

    Mrs. Onyinye Okafor, a mother of five, was said to have gone to transact business in a bank within the area and was on her way home when the incident occurred.

    According to eyewitness, the deceased, from Etti in Nanka community, Orumba North Local Government Area of the State was swept away by the deluge after she jumped out of a tricycle she boarded in attempt to save her life.

    The witness, who preferred anonymity, said: “It was about 11:49pm on Tuesday after the woman came out from the bank where she went to perform some transactions.

    “Due to the heavy rain, she packed her motorcycle within the area and boarded a tricycle to the bank after which she boarded another tricycle to go pick her bike.

    “While on the tricycle, the rider lost control due to the heavy flood but was battling with the steering and trying to return to his lane.

    Read Also: Flood: NEMA partners with NiMET, NIHSA on early warning alerts

    “Suddenly, the woman jumped out of the tricycle in the midst of the flood in attempt to save herself. But immediately she jumped down, she mis-stepped and fell into a drainage channel and was washed away by the flood.”

    The witness however regretted that efforts to rescue her by the tricyclist with some of her co-passengers proved abortive as the ravaging flood eventually swept her off their hands.

    “Many of those who attempted to rescue her also sustained varied degrees of injuries due to the impact of the flood,” the witness sobbed.

    The Nation gathered that the deceased body was later recovered under a culvert of drainage channel located exactly at the gate of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, after hours of intensive search.

    She was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital where she was confirmed dead by the doctor on duty.

    Confirming the incident, Police spokesperson, Ikenga Tochukwu said the body had been recovered, while investigations into the incident has commenced.

    “The body has been recovered and the CP has directed investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the death. Meanwhile, the identity of the corpse is yet to be identified,” he said.

  • Napoli to parley Osimhen amid Newcastle Interest

    Napoli to parley Osimhen amid Newcastle Interest

    Napoli will hold discussions with Newcastle United and Chelsea target Victor Osimhen’s representatives soon as they seek to establish if he wants to stay.

    Osimhen has sparked interest from several European sides with his performances for Napoli in the recently concluded season.

    He scored 26 goals while providing five assists in his 32 league appearances for the club and helped Napoli lift the Serie A title.

    Several English outfits are monitoring the 24-year-old centre forward, while Chelsea and Newcastle are particularly keen on him.

    Read Also: Serie A: Osimhen becomes Africa’s first golden boot winner

    The Nigerian international has two more years left on his contract and Napoli value the player in the region of €120m.

    And according to Italian daily Gazzetta dello Sport, Napoli are set to hold talks with Osimhen’s side to get a clear idea of what the centre forward is thinking about his future.

    Chelsea have suffered a disappointing season and they are keen to get a striker in to solve their goal-scoring situation.

    Newcastle, who have booked a place in the Champions League next season, are keen to strengthen their team in the summer transfer window and are suggested to want Osimhen to be part of Eddie Howe’s squad.

    However, both English clubs will face tough challenges from several other European giants for the signature of the Napoli forward.

  • 100 per cent increment for Ogun local govt pensioners

    100 per cent increment for Ogun local govt pensioners

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has approved an 100 per cent increase in pension for local government retirees earning N5,000.

    Permanent Secretary in the Bureau of Local Government Pensions (BLGP), Mrs. Olubukola Adeniregun, who confirmed this, said the governor directed that the increment should take effect from March 2023, making it arrears of two months. She added that the gesture would be continuous to further ensure the wellness and well-being pensioners.

    Read Also: Ex-Ogun NNPP chairman Oginni arrested for alleged fraud, money laundering

    Mrs. Adeniregun assured the retirees of the government’s unwavering determination to give appropriate attention to other demands of pensioners in due course.

    Chairman of Local Government Pensioners Association of Nigeria (LOGPAN), Pastor Benedict Ademoye; Chairman, Association of Retired Primary School Teachers Ogun State (ARPSTOS), Zaacheous Adekoya, and Chairperson, Retired Primary School Teachers Association of Nigeria (REPSTAN), Mrs. Caroline Oguntola, thanked Governor Abiodun for the increment, and appealed for his timely intervention on other issues raised by the associations.

  • NITDA, Mara to train 500,000 on blockchain tech

    NITDA, Mara to train 500,000 on blockchain tech

    Blockchain-based technology firm, Mara, has partnered the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Circle to train 500,000 government employees on the intricacies of blockchain technology. Circle is the creator of USDC and Euro Coin.

    Mara is driving this initiative through its foundation, Mara Foundation. The collaboration seeks to equip Nigeria’s workforce with the skills and knowledge necessary to energise the workforce, drive innovation and foster economic growth in the digital age.

    The first training session, which took place early this month marked a significant milestone in this collaborative effort. Managers from the NITDA participated in the session, which focused on the role of blockchain technology in building Nigeria’s digital economy.

    Various topics were covered, including “The Role of the Blockchain Industry in Strengthening Nigeria’s Digital Economy” and “Policymaking and Regulations for the Blockchain Industry.”

    Deputy Manager, Software Unit, IT Infrastructure Solutions Department at NITDA, Aishatu Yahaya Umar, expressed gratitude for the training.

    She commended Mara for sharing valuable knowledge that will empower NITDA to explore the potential of blockchain in organisational processes, projects, and regulatory frameworks. Ms. Umar acknowledged Mara’s dedication and collaborative efforts with the government and other stakeholders to drive blockchain technology in Nigeria.

    “Mara, as one of the blockchain stakeholders in Nigeria, through this initiative has proven to be a great supporter of driving the Nigeria digital economy agenda and we at NITDA are excited to be partners and beneficiaries of their laudable initiatives. We are convinced that by collaborating with government and other stakeholders within the space, the full adoption of blockchain technology in Nigeria is not far-fetched,” she said.

    Read Also: Telecom operators: NITDA Bill recipe for chaos

    Co-founder and CEO of Mara, Chi Nnadi, stated the organization’s commitment to closely work with the Federal Government to increase blockchain adoption across the country and the wider African continent. Mr. Nnadi expressed belief that empowering Nigeria’s workforce with the skills and knowledge required in the digital age would stimulate innovation and economic growth. Recognizing blockchain’s transformative potential in various sectors, Mr. Nnadi emphasized the importance of equipping government workers with this technology to build a more effective and inclusive government system, as well as to establish better regulations.

    He said: “Blockchain has the potential to revolutionize various sectors in Africa and by equipping government workers with this transformative technology, we are laying the foundation for a more effective and inclusive government system, better regulations and improved economy.”

    The collaboration between Mara Foundation, NITDA, and Circle aims to create a solid foundation for the widespread adoption of blockchain technology in Nigeria. By training 500,000 government employees, the initiative seeks to propel Nigeria into a leading position in the digital economy and inspire other African nations to follow suit.

  • NAPHER-SD holds 7th annual conference in Lagos

    NAPHER-SD holds 7th annual conference in Lagos

    The Lagos State chapter of the Nigeria Association for Physical, Health Education, Recreation, Sports and Dance (NAPHER-SD), has hosted its 7th annual conference and award ceremony.

    This was heralded in a two-day seminar held at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere with the theme: ‘Catalysing Lagos State Sustainable Development Dynamics through School Health, Physical Education, Recreation, Sports and Dance.’

    Chairman of the day, Prof. Olawale Moronkola, identified dancing as part of sports, which should be given more attention by the association.

    “NAPHER-SD represents all that are embedded in the theme. When we have conferences, whether at the national or state level, it should capture all the domains of sports.

    “In our curriculum or physical education, we see that we have recreational dance, folklore dance, but over the years, it seems it’s neglected and I want to challenge us as professionals to also make sure we develop this area.

    “We know that dance generates money now in Nigeria. We need to inculcate it in our association. Those of us in University and Colleges of Education, let’s ensure we make dance relevant.

    “We need to integrate all aspects of sports so that NAPHER-SD can become stronger. Our activities should meet the needs of the society,” he noted.

    The association’s Lagos State chairman, Prince Hakeem Olukunga, noted that the international bodies, recognize the importance of recreational and physical education, which are in tandem with the vision of the Association.

    Read Also: Teslim Balogun Stadium to host Lagos NAPHER-SD conference

    “It is on record that this is the first time in the history of NAPHER-SD Lagos, that the chairmanship of this noble profession is being peddled from the outside the world of academics,” he said.”

    “We are here to talk about physical education, recreation, sports and dance. I want to take you back to UNESCO international chapter on physical education and sports, particularly article one, which recognises the practice of physical education, physical activities and sports as the fundamental human rights for all.

    “Also, the articles of United Nations on right of the child recognize the right of the child, leisure and engage in recreational activities appropriate to the age of the child to participate freely in cultural life also.

    “I remember in the olden days, in the 60s and 70s, physical activity is the first thing you do when you get to the school. The question is, do we still have it today? If we still have it, it’s not as prominent as before.”

    In a keynote address, Prof. Abiodun Moronfolu spoke on sustainable development, quality education, poverty eradication, gender equality, reduced inequality, and partnerships.

    Commending the contributions of some of its members towards the growth of the association, they presented award of excellence and appreciation to ten Awardees.

  • Ronik Foundation holds lecture

    Ronik Foundation holds lecture

    Ronik Academic Development Foundation, owners of co-educational Ronik Intl Primary School, Ronik Comprehensive Secondary School and Ronik Polytechnic, Ejigbo, Lagos, is holding a memorial lecture in honour of the late proprietress, Mrs. Rachael Oyenike Alabi-Oyo, on June 15, at 2p.m. at Ronik Comprehensive Secondary School, Ejigbo, Lagos.

     The event has its theme, “Education as the bedrock of national development: The example of Ronik Citadel”. It will be delivered by Dr. Afolabi Tajudeen Alebiosu.

    Read Also: Dansol, Topfield are Doregos Basketball champions

     According to Mr. Olalekan Otun, a member of the Ronik Board of Governors, “the first memorial lecture is to celebrate the life and times of the renowned educationist and proprietress of Ronik Group of Schools, and further institutionalise her significant contributions to our nation’s education and socio-cultural development.”

     He added: “In the same vein, a one-year memorial service in her honour holds on June 18, at noon at Triumphant Baptist Church, Shasha Road, Akowonjo, Lagos.”

  • Classic Expo holds in Lagos

    Classic Expo holds in Lagos

    The Customs and Classics International Expo will be hosted in Lagos at the Landmark Events Center, Victoria Island, on July 14 and 15.

    Modified and classic cars and bikes from all over the country will feature in the competition to choose the best in paint, rims, modification, restoration and, the biggest prize, ‘Best in Show’.

    Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pinnaclemena Media, Ms Diji Shujahi, in collaboration with CEO of The Temple Company, Idris Olorunnimbe, said Nigerians are invited to this exclusive show.

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    “Visitors are expected to pay N3,000, which will enable them get a raffle ticket to win N50 million and 30 gadgets,” the organisers said.

    Founder and publisher of Ladies in Business Magazine Global, Dubai, Amb. Adeshola Helen Onadipe, will oversee operations and ensure the Expo’s success.

  • We’ve partnered Fed Govt, Lagos for June 12 memorial, says Coalition

    We’ve partnered Fed Govt, Lagos for June 12 memorial, says Coalition

    The Coalition of Pro-Democracy Groups for A Better Nigeria has said it is in partnership with the Federal Government and the Lagos State Government for a June 12 @ 30 World Press Conference.

    The coalition’s National Coordinator, Awa Bamiji, said in a statement that the conference will be the 4th in the series and the 12th National Discourse.

    The event will be held on Monday, June 12, 2023, at 12pm at Afri Hotels Suites and Restaurants Limited, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

    According to Bamiji, President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will at the event play host to veteran pro-democracy activists who fought military dictatorship to enthrone democracy in the country.

    On Monday, it will be 30 years since the June 12, 1993, presidential election won by the late Chief M.K.O Abiola (GCFR), which was adjudged the best in the country’s history.

    The said election was later annulled by the Military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida (aka IBB). Abiola was later detained by Babangida’s successor, the late Gen. Sani Abacha.

    He died in detention barely a month after Abacha’s sudden death in office.

    Chairmen of the occasion are Alhaji Tanko Yakassai (North), former Chairman of Arewa Consultative Forum, and Chief Frank Kokori (South), General Secretary of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) during the democratic struggles for the actualisation of June 12, 1993 election.

    Former President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and former Governor of Edo State who is now Senator representing Edo North, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, and the immediate past Minister of State for Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Rahamatu Aliyu, are the father and mother of the day.

    Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Godswill Akpabio and Hon Tajudeen Abass are Special Guest of Honour and Guest of Honour respectively.

    The Guest Speakers are Senator Uba Sani, Governor of Kaduna State; former Governor of Imo State, Senator Rochas Okorocha; Comrade Segun Mayegun, President of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) during the June 12, 1993, democratic struggles; Alhaji Asari Dokubo, Leader, Niger Delta People’s Volunteer Force; Alhaji Yerima Shettima, President, Arewa Youth Consultative Forum; Eze Goodluck Obi, an Activist and Royal father in Imo State and Abukar Onalor, Leader, Middle Belt Congress.

  • Northern youths protest ‘campaign of calumny’ against NEDC Board

    Northern youths protest ‘campaign of calumny’ against NEDC Board

    The Northern Youths Rights Protection (NYRP) has protested an alleged campaign of calumny against the Governing Board of the North East Development Commission (NEDC).

    The group noted that the NEDC board remained valid and legitimate until the Senate rejected their individual or collective nominations as already communicated by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    In a statement jointly signed by the Chairman, Northern Youths Rights Protection, Haruna Maikano and Secretary, Raphael Terkura, the group said: “After some 10 days of the expiration of the former Governing Board of the NEDC, abhorring an administrative vacuum via the non-action of the Senate, Buhari gave approval for the fresh nominees to be sworn-in in acting capacity, pending confirmation by the Senate.

    “And the distinguished Senators shall do well, when they confirm these nominations, without actually wanting to pitch President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against his predecessor, former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    “The unpatriotic act displayed by Ahmed Lawan’s 9th Senate in neither confirming or rejecting President Buhari’s nominations for the memberships of the Governing Board of the NEDC, at its expiration, May 7, is not only disrespectful, but also bullyish and treacherous toward Buhari’s constitutional right to choice of nominations.

    “In normal, lawful, respectful and seamless procedure, the President of the Senate was supposed to have read and conveyed to the Distinguished 9th Senate, Buhari’s communication regarding nominations to the Governing Board of the NEDC.

    Read Also: Northeast youths urge Tinubu to disregard letter on NEDC

    “Then, the Distinguished Senate would move and act in either confirmation of the nominees, or move and act in rejection of one, multiple or all of the nominees. Unfortunately, neither of the two actions was taken by the Senate.

    “On the 5th of May, 2023, former President Buhari, in exercise of his constitutional right and mandate, duly nominated 12 persons to fill the positions of the Governing Board of the North- East Development Commission, NEDC, whose then Governing Board was due to expire on the 7th of May, 2023.

    “President Buhari’s nominations were made known through two channels: Garba Shehu, President Buahri’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity issued a press statement, mentioning the fresh nominees as: Barr Bashir Bukar Baale, Chairman (North-East, Yobe), Suwaiba Idris Baba, Executive Director, Humanitarian Affairs (North-East, Taraba), Musa Umar Yashi, Executive Director, Administration and Finance (North-East, Bauchi), Dr Ismaila Nuhu Maksha, Executive Director, Operations (North-East, Adamawa), and Umar Abubakar Hashidu, MD/CEO (North-East, Gombe).

    “Others are: Grema Ali, Member (North-East, Borno), Onyeka Gospel-Tony, Member (South-East), Hon Mrs Hailmary Ogolo Aipoh, Member (South-South), Air Commodore Babatunde Akanbi (rtd), Member (South-West), Mustapha Ahmed Ibrahim, Member (North-West), Hadiza Maina, Member (North-Central), and a representative of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning.

    “This was also communicated to the Senate for due action, which shall be either confirmation or rejection of one, multiple or all of the nominees, as the Senate deems fit. To this day, Senator Ahmed Lawan’s 9th Senate has not acted on this important communication, despite receiving and acknowledging receipt of such.”