The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Wife pours hot water on husband’s mistress

    Wife pours hot water on husband’s mistress

    From Osagie Otabor, Akure

    A food vendor identified as Esther Godwin, has been arrested by the police in Ondo State for pouring hot water on a woman, Endurance Samuel, she suspected to be her husband’s mistress.

    It was gathered that the suspect called the victim around 10am last week to come and collect the palm oil her husband, Sunday Godwin was owing her.

    A source said the victim went to the suspect’s shop and was offered a seat.

    The source stated that the suspect queried the victim why she was sleeping with her husband, an allegation the victim denied.

    It was at that moment, according to the source,  Esther poured hot water on her.

    The victim was rushed to the Health Centre at Idanre but was referred to General Hospital, Alade Idanre, where she was still receiving treatment.

    Read Also: 21-year-old Bauchi housewife stabs husband to death

    She said she only went with the suspect’s husband to farm as a labourer.

    “Esther called me from where I was learning tailoring to come and collect the palm oil her husband is owing me because I also work as a labourer for some farmers in the town. I rushed out of my oga’s shop excitedly to the place, not knowing that the call was just to lure me to her own shop where she was selling food, to pour hot water on me for an offence I did not commit,” she narrated.

    The source said the suspect has been charged to court and remanded in a Correctional Centre, Surulere, Ondo.

    The suspect, it was gatherd was nursing a month old baby

    Mr. Godwin, who denied having any affair with Endurance, said he only engaged her as a labourer in his farm.

    “I am the one paying for the victim’s treatment at the hospital since the incident happened till date.”

  • Verification committee denies paying abandoned projects contractors

    Verification committee denies paying abandoned projects contractors

    Chairman, Kaduna State Projects Verification Committee, Sani Sabiu, has debunked a statement credited to him that some contractors received payments during the previous administration of Governor Nasir El-Rufai and abandoned the projects.

    Sabiui’s reaction in a statement entitled: ‘Clarification to The Statement Credited To Me Regarding Ongoing Projects In Kaduna State’, followed news publications making the rounds where he alleged that he was quoted saying that some contractors collected money and abandoned projects in Kaduna state.

    According to Sabiu, “I wish to clarify that  I was misquoted and my statement was completely taken out of context,” adding that the primary mandate of the committee was to determine the status of ongoing projects and those in the pipeline, in order to ensure the speedy completion of all priority projects in the state.

    ” I shared with the media information on the extent of work on some of the projects and what the contractors informed us are required to speedily complete the projects. The statement credited to me that some contractors collected payments and abandoned their projects is incorrect and merely a product of the fertile imagination of the reporters.”

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     The Chairman of the Committee added: “The committee visited some project sites on Friday, 14th July, 2023. At the end of the visits, I addressed the media on the Committee’s mandate, our findings so far and next steps.

    “In the course of the interaction, some media team members attached to the Government House asked some questions on the visitation which I  responded to as follows: “that we are amazed by the number and quality of projects so far completed, and that several projects are at completion level with some requiring minimal funds to complete.

    “I also mentioned that some were being delayed due to ongoing compensation issues, especially where some residential areas are affected, where I also said that our report will guide the Government in prioritising some projects and speedily completing them in fulfillment of its promises to the people of Kaduna State.”

    Sani who expressed displeasure on how he was misquoted in the media further explained that: “one reporter then asked a question about those who collected payments and abandoned their project sites, to which I responded that every project has its record. If there is a proven case of collection of payment and abandonment of a project, the state government knows the right step to take in the circumstance,” he said.

  • ‘More firms should be in maritime’

    ‘More firms should be in maritime’

    An expert in maritime logistics, Ben Garba, has said more involvement of local firms will create jobs and boost the economy instead of exporting opportunitises meant for youths.

    Garba, chief executive officer of GOG Marine, said dominance of foreign operators negates the spirit and promotion of local content, which also brought about capital flight in the sector.

    He appealed to the Federal Government to deploy more resources and create enabling environment to encourage participation of  indigenous firms in global shipping.

    “We need an environment that allows more investors to enter shipping because foreign players dominate the market. Foreign-owned tankers, manned by foreign crews export a significant percentage of our crude oil.

    Read Also: Stakeholders stress mentorship for maritime students

    “More indigenous owners should come in to play in the industry and arrest capital flight,” he noted.

    He called for stakeholder engagement in finding solution to taxes that threaten to cripple businesses in the sector, noting dozens of international shipping companies have threatened to stop trading with Nigeria following back tax claims imposed on them by Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) amounting to several millions of dollars.

    “High taxes always make it difficult for businesses to be competitive because these high taxes increase prices, which have a spiral effect on the cost of products at the pump and other value chains.

    “So, we need to keep trying to find a middle ground between what we are doing with taxation and how it affects the average Nigerian on the road, who has to buy fuel daily from our pumps.

    “We need to take these into consideration. As a ship owner and operator, we will dialogue with stakeholders to see how we can find the best place to be”, Garba added.

  • ‘Why Nigeria needs improved land administration mechanism’

    ‘Why Nigeria needs improved land administration mechanism’

    Head of practice at Nuel Mark & Partners Estate Surveyors and Valuers, Emmanuel Mark, has called for intervention on Right-of-Way, land administration, valuation, and compensations for development projects.

    He spoke while addressing the 69th Educational Conference of International Right-of-Way Association (IRWA) in Denver, Colorado, United States.

    Mark said as Nigeria’s population grows from 45.1 million in 1960, to over 221 million today, and projected as 400 million in 2050, the urban population also increased, with Lagos State, seven million in 2020, projected as 15 million and Port Harcourt, one million in 2000, projected as 3.4 million.

    He noted Nigeria needs to invest about $2.3 trillion in the next 30 years to close its infrastructural deficit (about $150 billion annually).

    Mark observed the problem with infrastructural development is acquisition of Right-of-Way necessary for development projects as the country has been unable to develop land administration, valuation, compensation procedure, and mechanisms to meet challenges of compensation valuation as demanded today.

    In his address on Right-of-Way acquisition as a challenge for infrastructure development in Nigeria, he noted some of the challenges bordered on the manner of revocation or acquisition of land by the governor after notice or consultation, saying the term “Revocation” of Right of Occupancy implies the fact that landowners has occupancy right that can be revoked hence should be acknowledged and compensated.

    He also made a case for compensation for economic trees and crops as proscribed while bemoaning that no priority compensation is stated in the existing Land Use Act for the acquisition of fallow land.

    Other challenges according to him include issues of delayed payment as provided by the law stating that the Land Use Act did not establish a deadline for payment of compensation. He also hinted at the challenge of building structures along the ROW to receive compensation for land which has created additional bottlenecks

    On what can be done to address these issues, Mark stated that there is a need to provide a simple guideline on how land and property can be compulsorily acquired by the government and also provide a clear definition of public purpose to allow for judicial review of the State Governor’s expropriate decision.

    He went further to state that government and developers need to conduct with EIA/SIA before takeover so as to deal with issues associated with project impact on Land Rights and Management while arguing that all enabling laws must be amended to make compensation payable not only for unexhausted improvements on land but only for the land itself as a store of value. He went further to espouse that the value of land must be considered and the required compensations should be paid before possession.

    He said “I have always noted that Right of Way Acquisition should not just be the power of government to “Revoke and Acquire” but rather the process by which that, power is exercised. In this regard, members of the International Right of Way Association (IRWA), Chapter 84, Nigeria, and Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESVS), will continue to advocate for a just process that will include ‘Consultation and Negotiation’ in the Acquisition process in Nigeria”.

    “Therefore, the process, in my opinion, must include Consultations, Negotiation, Publicity (gazette and advert), Valuation and Submission of Claims, Payment of Compensation and Possession, including Dispute Resolution” he concluded

  • Lagos trains pension officers

    Lagos trains pension officers

    LAGOS State Pension Commission (LASPEC) has reiterated the need for pension desk offices and officers to be abreast of new developments in the pension scheme.

    It spoke at a training for pension desk officers, directors of administration and human resources in local government and State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB). The theme was ‘The Pension System and Documentation’.

    Director-General, Babalola Obilana, noted pension desk officers, directors of administration and human resources should  manage and administer the financial benefits of retiring persons, saying ‘it is a role that demands diligence, accuracy and compassion’.

    Read Also: Otti orders payment of April salary, June pensions

    He said: “Today’s event has been organised by LASPEC to enlighten you on reforms in the administration of Contributory Pension Scheme. The theme serves as opportunity for us to enhance skills and stay up-to-date with latest developments in pension management. The landscape of retirement benefits is evolving, influenced by economic trends, legislative changes and the evolving needs of retirees. It is our duty to remain knowledgeable and adaptable so we can provide the best service to beneficiaries.”

    Obilana also stressed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was working to ensure retirees get their pension as and when due.

    “Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has said he will clear the pension backlog and he’s doing it. He ensures he pays them monthly. Very soon, by the end of the year, we would have paid up to date,” he added.

  • FastCash lends N105b digital loans to customers 

    FastCash lends N105b digital loans to customers 

    FastCash, an instant loan solution powered by First City Monument Bank (FCMB), has disbursed over three million loans worth N105 billion to Nigerians. Each was disbursed in less than five minutes, with no collateral or paperwork required for accessing up to N200,000 via the bank’s mobile app and *329*11 USSD code.

    The solution, launched in 2018 and has repayment options of 30 days to three months.

    Divisional Head of Personal Banking at FCMB, Mr Shamsideen Fashola, said: “We are thrilled by the extraordinary reach and impact of FastCash. Our digital loan product, with a remarkable sum of N105 billion disbursed over five years.

    Read Also: FCMB unveils FastCash

    Through FastCash. We effectively bridge the access to credit gap for countless Nigerians. We know the solution has improved the well-being of Nigerians. So, we remain resolute in our dedication to serving as a steadfast pillar of support to our customers and the wider Nigerian society. First City Monument Bank will continue to empower individuals and contribute to advancing our society through innovative, convenient, secure, and easily accessible digital products.”

    In addition to FastCash, FCMB offers the Salary Plus Loan, a consumer credit scheme exclusively available to salary account holders. This scheme enables qualified FCMB customers to access short or medium-term funding to meet urgent financial obligations.

    Both FastCash and Salary Plus Loan are excellent solutions for those facing unexpected financial needs or planning an investment for the future. They provide quick access to funds and flexible repayment terms, making them a convenient and affordable option for Nigerians.

  • Sule appoints 20 special assistants

    Sule appoints 20 special assistants

    Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule has approved the appointment of 20 Senior Special Assistants.

    They are Hamza Ibrahim Moyi, Shua’aibu Sani, Elsa Monde, Bala Kalami Ibrahim, Muhammed Ikushunta Adih, Maisaheru Gude, Abdulaziz D S Keffi, Elsie Indi Ayih, Venerable Jibrailu Yarima, Hajiya Hafsat Abdullahi, Yusuf Aliyu Galadima.

    Others include Usman Umar Baba, Yusuf Mada, Solomon Pevkya, Comrade Ali Manga, Danladi Musa Ibrahim, Mohammed Ahmed, Abubakar Abbas, Benjamin Moses Ambuti and Hashimu Jaja.

    According to a statement from the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Muhammed Ubandoma Aliyu, the appointments take immediate effect.

    The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Affairs, Comrade Peter Ahemba said the appointments represent balance and inclusiveness.

    “A careful look at the list of all the appointments so far made by the Governor no doubt, confirms the commitment of the Governor to promoting fairness, equity and balance in the governance of the State. For instance, Nasarawa State has 13 Local Governments and 18 Development Areas in which each of the 13 LGAs is fairly represented in government at different levels and capacities, including the latest appointment of additional Senior Special Assistants to the Governor.

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    “Beside spreading the appointments to ensure that all the Local Government Areas of the State are represented in the current Government, the Governor also ensured equity and fairness in terms of religion and ethnicity.

    “It is therefore expected that the new appointees will quickly settle down and bring to bear, their wealth of experience towards assisting the Governor in his quest to provide good governance for the people of the State. The appointees must also work hard to justify the confidence reposed in them, bearing in mind that to whom much is given, much is expected.”

    “With this practical demonstration of inclusiveness and sustained representation of all segments of the society in governance, Abdullahi A. Sule, the Governor of Nasarawa State has proven that, he is indeed, a detribalised Nigerian, who is strategic in his thinking and actions, a Governor that is committed to keeping to his oath of office by doing right to all manner of people, irrespective of their ethnicity, religion and other affiliations.

    “It is, therefore, incumbent on the people of Nasarawa State to support the policies and programmes of the present administration and resist the temptation of engaging in unnecessary criticisms that are targeted at distracting the governor from the delivery of good governance to the citizenry,” he said

  • Rivers YPP governorship candidate withdraws petition

    Rivers YPP governorship candidate withdraws petition

    • •Hails Fubara for developmental steps

    Rivers State governorship candidate of the Young Progressive Party (YPP) in the last general election, Danagogo Wenike-Briggs, has withdrawn his petition against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Governor Siminialayi Fubara from the Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja.

    Wenike-Briggs hailed Fubara for “starting on a right footing” in his development masterplan for the state.

    He urged him not to relent.

    Read Also: APC, YPP, others reject Akwa Ibom results

    Wenike-Briggs Development Organisation spokesman Nduchukwu Oriji made this known yesterday in a statement in Port Harcourt. 

    He said the governorship candidate’s decision to withdraw the petition followed appeal and advice by elders and stakeholders.

    He expressed regrets that the plans by Wenike-Briggs to become the governor did not materialise now, hoping that the ambition would be realised in future.

    Oriji recalled the lofty visions of the governorship candidate for the state if he was given the privilege to serve, saying his principal was passionate to ensure development of the state.

  • The Future of Online Sports Betting in Nigeria

    The Future of Online Sports Betting in Nigeria

    Sports betting has grown tremendously in Nigeria, tightly weaving itself into the lives of sports-loving citizens and courting bettor dedication across the country. But with the threat of a clamp down on gambling addiction looming, technological advancements, and a shift in punter behaviour, one begins to wonder, if this industry will stand the test of time or fizzle out like others before it. Our article on The Future of Online Sports Betting in Nigeria answers this question.

    With a population of 200+ and the largest betting market in Africa, Nigeria is making giant strides in the world of online sports betting. By keeping devotees plied with a range of betting options, this industry is booming and has become a main source of income for many.

    This article does a deep dive into the sports betting industry in Nigeria and an analysis of its rise and present state. We discuss factors that facilitate its growth like the impact of technology, and mobile phone usage. We also explore the current regulations for this field, its future, and the challenges it battles with.

    At the end of this post, you would have gotten a look into Nigeria’s sports betting industry, and ultimately decide if it’s a sector you wish to invest in or not.

    Article Content:

    1. Top 10 Statistics For Online Sports Betting In Nigeria
    2. An Overview Of Online Sports Betting In Nigeria
    3. Regulation Of Online Sports Betting In Nigeria
    4. Impact Of Technology Online Sports Betting In Nigeria
    5. Future Of Online Sports Betting In Nigeria

    Top 10 Statistics For Online Sports Betting In Nigeria

    Currently,  there are over 65 million Nigerians actively engaging in this activity and about $15 is spent daily in Nigeria on gambling. For other numbers on Nigeria bettor activity, look at the rundown we gave below:

    1. The Nigerian sports betting industry is estimated at $750 billion.
    2. On average, a bettor spends close to N3,000 daily gambling on sports.
    3. 53% of Nigeria bet at least once a day.
    4. There are only 3 licensed casinos in Nigeria.
    5. Despite having just 3 licensed land-based casinos, the estimated revenue from this sector is $70 million annually.
    6. Lagos is the biggest gambling city in the country, with 1 gambling facility, 10 table games, 106 games, slot, and video poker machines.
    7. 14 million bet stakes and payments are made online daily.
    8. 26% of bettors pick quick payment of earnings as one of the main reasons they will choose a bookmaker.
    9. Most Nigerian bettors view betting as a way to make fast money.
    10. Up to 70% of the sports betting trade is estimated to come from football gambling.

    An Overview Of Online Sports Betting In Nigeria

    The fast growth of online sports betting in Nigeria is mainly characterised by its equally growing population and increased internet penetration.

    The use of smartphones has caused a remarkable boost in this sector, with many users having unrestricted access to online sports betting sites in Nigeria like Helabet.

    Online casinos are another area that pulls its throng of punters; if people don’t wager on traditional sports like football or basketball, they’ll do so on virtual poker.

    The steady implementation of betting markets punters can access seamlessly with their mobile phones is another reason why people believe Nigerian online sports betting will experience strong growth in future.

    Regulation Of Online Sports Betting In Nigeria

    The increase in online sports betting has led to the establishment of many online casinos and bookmakers. To protect customers, the Nigerian government has laid down certain regulations and guidelines that must be followed by every sports betting site and virtual casino operator.

    These rules are presided over by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission. The Commission monitors the industry. They ensure that all better platforms pay their taxes and that bettors only bet on approved games.

    Government regulations regarding online betting are becoming relaxed and there is a higher tolerance for it now. This has created an opportunity for more betting sites to be legalized and provide services to bettors.

    Impact Of Technology Online Sports Betting In Nigeria

    Technology has such a significant impact on online sports betting in Nigeria, with it being this sector’s biggest promoter. Sports betting is built on predicting the result of matches or events and then wagering on it. Technological advancement has made it easier for you to bet at any time, on any sport in the world and from any location.

    In what other ways technology has influenced the virtual gambling scene in Nigeria?

    1. Internet Betting

    With many Nigerians using mobile devices to access the internet, most online sports betting sites in Nigeria are also following this trend. These sites provide mobile versions of their platforms.

    Additionally, mobile phones are easy to use, which makes them convenient for gambling. The surge in mobile usage has had a huge impact on young Nigerian bettors. It also offers them numerous opportunities to try different types of betting.

    2. Virtual Reality

    Virtual reality is another technological creation that led to the growth of online sports betting in Nigeria. Players who enjoy fantasy sports can watch their favourite athletes in VR soccer leagues. Fantasy games like basketball and League of Legends are also available for interested bettors.

    Bookies have designed virtual sporting contests that feel and look realistic to suit punters who want an immersive experience in another world.

    3. Numerous Payment Methods

    Due to technological advancements, sportsbooks have included more payment methods for patrons. You can now deposit and withdraw using credit/debit cards or e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill.

    The wide usage of cryptocurrencies has also caused them to be adopted as acceptable payment methods by online sports betting sites. Transactions are also quicker with Ethereum, USDT, Bitcoin, etc.

    Online payment is secure and you don’t need to fear because blockchain technology has qualities like consensus cryptography and decentralization principles that ensure safety.

    4. Enhanced Security

    Thanks to upgrades in technology, online sports betting systems are more secure than they used to be.

    Sportsbooks used two-factor authentication to protect patrons’ accounts. To withdraw your payouts, you need a one-time password, which will be sent to your registered email address or phone number.

    5. Unrestricted Betting

    Technology has made it possible for punters to get unrestricted access to bets without the confines of local laws. International bookmakers use satellites to provide their services and stream matches.

    This means you can wager on different sports betting markets that are not available in Nigeria, giving you a variety of options to select from.

    6. Excellent User Interface

    Using technology, many betting platforms have improved the gaming experience of users. With a good user interface, they’ve attracted and retained bettors to their sites. Besides this, you no longer need to be too tech-savvy to use the functions available on the websites.

    Future Of Online Sports Betting In Nigeria

    The prevalence of online sports betting in Nigeria has preceded the establishment of several betting companies in the country. Nigerian punters troop to the online spaces of these bookmakers to wager on a wide selection of games. The Internet has also made gambling more convenient.

    With these systems and practices in place, the future of online sports betting in Nigeria is secured.

    1. Wider Acceptance

    Online sports betting is gaining wider acceptance in Nigeria, which won’t be changing soon. The Nigerian government in 1990, legalised multiple games of skill using the Criminal Act Code. This code allows land-based casinos and betting websites to operate with little restrictions.

    2. International Brands Flooding The Nigerian Market

    The Nigerian betting market is huge, foreign betting brands know this and are already working towards bringing their businesses to this place. Broadband internet services and tolerance for betting have brought them to our betting industry.

    Another thing is, young Nigerians and tech-savvy and already inclined to do most activities online. Foreign betting services will leverage this behaviour to build thriving ventures.

    Nigerian betting websites are not left out in this trend too, more of them are popping up to occupy the market.

    3. Live Streaming

    Many sports betting sites in Nigeria, like MatchPlug, are already offering live streaming and live scores to patrons. Streaming allows fans to watch live games on their mobile devices or PCs and get fixtures scores on the go.

    These betting sites provide live /in-play betting too so that punters can wager on events in real time. This gives them a more immersive experience for prominent matches like the English Premier League.

    Fans will for last-minute bets, where they can wager moments before a match begins. Last-minute bets are an acceptable choice for bettors who need extra time to get their predictions ready after extensive analysis and research.

    4. eSports

    eSports has garnered attention lately and is slowly becoming one of the main forms of betting in Nigeria. This industry is so massive that certain sports businesses and players have already begun dabbling in it to promptly corner the market.

    Nigerian bettors are seeking out new thrills in gambling, as such it won’t take long for this trend to spread across the nation.

  • Ondo: Kingsmakers ignore oracle, elect Oba

    Ondo: Kingsmakers ignore oracle, elect Oba

    Crisis is rocking the Akotogbo community in Irele Local Government Area of Ondo State as kingmakers in the area have reportedly ignored the decision of the oracle and declared Prince Micheal Elumaro Akinfolarin as Oba- elect

    It was gathered that the Ifa oracle picked Prince Adeteye Akindele from Igodan-moko Ruling House as the Larogbo of Akotogbo to replace the late Oba Turoti Martins Jola-Ade who died in 2009.

    But the selection of Prince Akinfolarin was done under the supervision of the Secretary of the Local Government, Mr. Oladipupo Temenu on behalf of the council Chairman Mr. Olusegun Ajimotokin.

    Prince Akinfolarin scored four votes out of five accredited kingmakers that participated in the exercise.

    Temenu stated that the kingmakers opted to elect an Oba after the oracle consultation as traditional method of selection failed to disqualify any of the contestants.

    Read Also: Game of throne: Race for Ooni stool

    His words “It is glaring that the oracle jointly consulted by the three priests disqualified none of the candidates, nevertheless, it is a must for us to select a candidate and no other means than election.

    “You, Prince Micheal Elumaro Akinfolarin, having possessed certified requirements and scored the highest number of four votes cast from election against zero, are hereby declared the winner”

    But a kingmaker from Igodan-moko, Chief Ayo Omolafe, who called for the nullification of the selection process, said the kingmakers violated the modality earlier agreed upon by the two main parties.

    Omolafe noted that the authentic candidate as selected by oracle divination in line with traditional modality as collectively adopted by all the five certified kingmakers of the Akotogbo community, was Prince Akindele.

    His words “The exercise of today was full of irregularities when the modality registered with the state government to be adopted to select a new Oba (Ifa) was violated and we can never accept the outcome.

    “The priests had earlier consulted Ifa where Prince Adeteye Akindele Sunday from Igodan-moko ruling house was revealed as authentic Oba-elect.

    “But it was Irele Local Government chairman Barrister Olusegun Ajimotokin and four other Ijamas (Kingmakers) who turned things upside down after being romanced”.