The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • CSO, INEC, security operatives meet, seek end to violence during off-cycle elections

    CSO, INEC, security operatives meet, seek end to violence during off-cycle elections

    AHEAD of the off-cycle governorship elections in Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa states, stakeholders have met to foster a hitch-free process during the exercise later this year.

    The stakeholders which include Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC), police chiefs, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps(NSCDC) and other stakeholders during the second National dialogue on post-2023 General elections workshop organised by a non-governmental organization, Kimpact Development Initiative(KDI) in Osogbo analyzed the 2023 General election and advocated for better processes in subsequent elections.

    In the welcome address by Team Lead, KDI, Mr. Bukola Idowu, he said violence can be stopped if the country leadership provide economic opportunities for everybody to thrive, adding that electoral offenders must also be brought to book.

    He urged electorates to stop giving much respect to those with untraceable incomes, “Electoral offenders must be punished. We should stop to give much respect to those who do not have traceable incomes. Some of the people we called politicians don’t even have a company they are running. They can’t even manage a company and yet, our education, security, economy, and infrastructure is in their hand.

    “From our findings, election violence has a direct link with poverty. We must address unemployment and question projects that have no economic value.”

    The INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, Osun State, Dr. Mutiu Agboke who was presented by the head of the legal department, Omoniyi Fayanju admonished that Nigerians must own the process by fighting against any irregularities.

    Speaking on the topic, ‘National reconciliation and strategies of violence prevention ahead of the off-cycle elections, a media consultant, Prince Kanmi Ademiluyi, said violence can only be prevented when the county developed a positive economy where people actually have opportunities to develop themselves and actually be what they wanted to be.

    In his own part, a journalist with Rave Fm, Osogbo, Mr Olufemi Olanipekun who spoke on ‘Setting the agenda ahead of the 2023 off-cycles elections’, said there was the need for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to fix its logistics issues which was an intractable problem.

  • Makinde to constitute cabinet in two weeks, decouple Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism

    Makinde to constitute cabinet in two weeks, decouple Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism

    OYO State Governor Seyi Makinde, has stated that he will put his cabinet in place in the next two weeks, saying that names of other commissioner-nominees would be sent to the House of Assembly for screening and confirmation soonest.

    The governor also maintained that his administration will focus on tourism as one of the key sectors that will drive the state’s economy.

    According to him, the government will decouple the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism as part of efforts to enhance the optimal performance of the existing ministries.

    Governor Makinde, who gave these indications in his official Newsletter, dated 29th June, 2023, said the Ministry of Information will now be headed by one commissioner, while another commissioner will head the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

    The decoupling, he said, would bring the number of Ministries in the state to 18 as against the 17 that existed during the first tenure.

    Read Also: Makinde seeks clearance for seven as commissioners

    The governor equally noted that in line with his promise, the Light-Up Oyo streetlights, which went off for a few weeks, have now returned to being active.

    He explained that the project will, for the time being, continue to use diesel generators until it will finally fall back on the ongoing hybrid power system – the 11MW Independent Power Project (IPP, which is ongoing) as the main source of power, with gas generators and inverters as a backup.

    Makinde said: “For me, having sent the first batch of commissioner nominees to the Oyo State House of Assembly, I know I now have just about two weeks to send the names of the rest of the nominees and have my cabinet in place.

    “This promise will be kept just as all other promises we have made to the good people of Oyo State.

    “You may have noticed that the street lights are coming back on as promised. We will continue to use the diesel generators to power the street lights for now so that our people can get the benefits of this infrastructure while we work on finally moving them to the tribrid power system – the 11MW Independent Power Project (IPP, which is ongoing) as the main source of power with gas generators and inverters as a backup.

    “One of the other things we are going to do is to ensure that all our ministries function optimally. As you already know, Tourism is one of the sectors that we will be focusing on during this tenure to drive our economy.

  • Group endorses philanthropist Achadu for ministerial slot

    Group endorses philanthropist Achadu for ministerial slot

    The Asiwaju Transformation Ambassadors (ATA) has endorsed Dr Michael Achadu for the position of Minister from Benue State.

    The Asiwaju group said Dr Achadu has enjoyed a distinguished career, and have excelled in the cooperate world for decades.

    In a statement issued by Otunba Lawrence Akala and Barrister Femi Oke, its President and General Secretary respectively, the group described Achadu as a loyal party stalwart who perfectly understands President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The statement added thay since delving into politics, Achadu has demonstrated an unusual penchant for excellence, capacity and competence.

    It noted that the Okpokwu native is a detrabilised Nigerian, unifier and nation-builder who so much believes in the philosophy of President Tinubu.

    The group recalled that Achadu played a crucial role in the victory of the ruling party at all levels in Benue State.

    Describing the brand strategist as a philanthropist, it further said he is out to make a difference in governance and should be given the opportunity to serve.

    Read Also: S’east APC youths demand ministerial slots, board membership for party faithful

    “Chief Dr. Michael Achadu is man who is bucking the trend in politics and governance. Not your usual politician, Achadu is a seasoned professional with global economic expertise,” the group said.

    “A philanthropist, he is also a consummate business mogul and an epitome of hope to the young generation owing to his penchant for hard work, capacity and integrity.

    “Achadu’s impact has been felt all over the nation with over 3,500 youths workforce spread across all 774 local governments.

    In recognition of his contribution to human capacity development, philanthropy and entrepreneurship, he was awarded an honorary doctorate degree from the prestigious International University of Entrepreneurship, Delaware, USA.

    “His foray into partisan politics was driven by the need to offer an alternative to the general narrative. He was instrumental to the delivery of Benue state and especially Okpokwu LGA to our great party, the APC in the last general elections.

    “Chief Achadu embodies determination, doggedness, perseverance and courage. He understands the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a new Nigeria, where development is driven by intellectuals and their time-tested track record of entrepreneurship break-through.

    “We, therefore, believe he is the most suited member of our party from Benue State for the position of Minister in the cabinet of Mr President”.

  • ‘Nigeria, China must intensify cross-cultural exchanges

    ‘Nigeria, China must intensify cross-cultural exchanges

    The Administrator of Grace Schools, Lagos Mrs Olatokunbo Edun has underscored the need to deepen the cultural exchanges between Nigeria and China. 

    She said this was necessary because of the enormous benefits derivable from promoting cross cultural exchanges.

    Edun, who spoke at the roundtable discourse tagged : “China modernisation and poverty alleviation policies :Lessons for Nigeria” organised by the African and Asian  Researchers Association of Nigeria (AARAN)stated that with China’s role in technological and infrastructural development, Nigeria has a lot to take advantage of.

    Edun asserted that the promotion of Chinese language has exposed students of Grace Schools to information and improved communication skills 

    Grace Schools, according to her, is the pioneer of Chinese teaching in Lagos with the adequate support of the Confucius Institute, University of Lagos.

    Read Also: China ratifies WTO deals on fisheries subsidies

    She added that the cross cultural exchange has helped in no small measures to boost the learning capabilities of the students in Chinese language.

    This, she said, has been achievable through vigorous teaching,study exchange visits to China and intensive learning of Chinese language. 

    The Consul of the Consulate General of the Chinese Consulate in Lagos, Mr Liang Benbin emphasised the need for Nigeria to learn from the workable policies and strategies adopted by the Chinese government to develop it’s economy.

    Benbin stated that China focuses more protection of the environment and the Education of her citizens.

    China, according to him,is focused in developing the economy and poverty alleviation. 

    The citizens, according to him, are provided social security to improve their living conditions.

    He asserted further education is the most effective way to lift people out of poverty. 

    The Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute , University of Lagos,Professor Zhao Hongling, said China has remained focus on developing the economy and collaborating with other countries. 

  • My parent’s separation almost ruined my life – Yhemolee

    My parent’s separation almost ruined my life – Yhemolee

    Popular actor and singer, Idowu Adeyemi aka Yhemolee has recalled how his parent’s separation almost ruined him and his sister.

    He said their parents stayed apart when they were still young, adding he had to sponsor himself and his sister’s education.

    The singer disclosed this in a recent interview with media personality, Chude Jideonwo.

    Read Also: A man without money at disadvantage already- Yhemolee

    He said: “I saw myself and my sister through school. Our parents separated at a point when they could have damaged our lives.

    “My parents were well-to-do. I mean, I went to one of the best schools at that time. But they left us all of a sudden.”

    Yhemolee said last year he reunited his parents during his mum’s birthday and even took them clubbing.

    He said they are on good terms now

  • Didi Ekanem tackles men hitting Davido over rumoured affairs

    Didi Ekanem tackles men hitting Davido over rumoured affairs

    Actress Didi Ekanem has knocked men criticising Afrobeats singer, Davido over alleged infidelity and pregnancy scandals.

    For the past two days, the singer’s name has topped social media discourse after two ladies claimed he impregnated them.

    Many chastised O.B.O for having extramarital affairs and worse still without using protections.

    Sharing her thoughts on the men who’ve condemned Davido for the alleged deeds, Ekanem expressed how good it felt to see them realise how awful they’re perceived when they engage in illicit affairs outside their matrimony.

    Read Also: Girls claiming pregnancy for Davido dumb – Bobrisky

    “I’m glad that men are using David’s story to see how bad they look when they go about cheating and disrespecting their wives anyhow,” she wrote.

    The film star mocked men who despite doing the same thing the singer was being accused of still joined the crowd in castigating him.

    “Men are busy commenting and condemning David for the same thing they do. Anyways, na who them catch be thief,” she added.

  • Grammy releases dates for 66th edition

    Grammy releases dates for 66th edition

    The Recording Academy organisers have released the date for next year’s edition of Grammy awards.

    The Academy, in a tweet, shared that the nominees for the 66th Grammys will be unveiled on November 10, 2023.

    It announced the 66th Grammys would hold on February 4, 2024.

    The event would air on CBS from the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

    Read Also: Mr Eazi gets Latin Grammy recognition

    The Nation reports the Recording Academy has introduced three new categories, namely Best African Music Performance, Best Pop Dance Recording and Best Alternative Jazz Album to the award show.

    The new categories will receive nominations beginning with next year’s show.

    The Best African Music Performance category is open to contemporary and traditional music from the African continent, including Afrobeats, Afro-pop, Amapiano, High Life, Fuji, etc.

  • Nigeria climb to 39 in latest FIFA Ranking

    Nigeria climb to 39 in latest FIFA Ranking

    Nigeria’s 3-2 away victory over Sierra Leone in the AFCON qualifiers may have rubbed off positively on the fortunes of the team as the coach Jose Peseiro-tutored leapt a step up in the latest FIFA Ranking to 39th in the world.

    The Super Eagles remain the sixth best team in Africa as Qatar 2022 World Cup semi finalist Morocco held on to the zenith in Africa as the continent’s best rated team in the world occupying 13th place in the latest FIFA Ranking.

    African champions Senegal are second in Africa and 18th in the world while Tunisia (31), Algeria (33) and Egypt (34) are third, fourth and fifth respectively in Africa.

    Meanwhile, Argentina are settling into their new role as world leaders. Nearly three months on from regaining top spot in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, La Albiceleste remain out front thanks to friendly wins over Australia and Indonesia.

    Read Also: Super Eagles slides to 40th in FIFA ranking

    The top three is also unchanged, with the reigning world champions staying ahead of France (2nd) and Brazil (3rd ).

    There has been movement behind them. England (4th , plus 1) and Belgium (5th , minus 1) swap places, as do Croatia (6th , plus 1) and Netherlands (7th , minus 1). Newly crowned CONCACAF Nations League champions USA (11th , plus 2) close in on the Top 10, where Spain (10th) manage to remain thanks to their UEFA Nations League triumph.

    There have been some major moves further down the Ranking. While Wales (35th , minus 9) and Côte d’Ivoire (51st , minus 6) dropped places, Ukraine (24th , plus 6), Scotland (30th , plus 6) and Armenia (90th , plus 7) all moved in the opposite direction. Slovakia (46th , plus 5), Greece (49th , plus 3) and Mali (50th , plus 3) are back in the Top 50, while Mauritania (99th , plus 6) and India (100th , plus 1) both return to the Top 100.

  • Naomi Campbell welcomes second child at 53

    Naomi Campbell welcomes second child at 53

    World-class supermodel Naomi Campbell has announced the arrival of her bundle of joy.

    Campbell, in a picture, is seen holding the newborn’s hand with her two-year-old daughter.

    The mother of two, who began her career at 15, is single but not letting that deter her from her motherhood aspirations.

    In the post, the 53-year-old dotes on the newborn, calling him, “a true gift from God”.

    She said: “My little darling, know that you are cherished beyond measure and surrounded by love from the moment you graced us with your presence.

    “A true Gift from God, blessed! Welcome baby boy”.

    Read Also: Wizkid was nominated in wrong Grammy categories, says Naomi Campbell

    Campbell urged women not to give up on their dreams saying, “It’s never too late to become a mother”.

    This comes after the model stunned fans in 2021 with the birth of her first child, a daughter at age 51.

    Declaring the fulfillment she found in parenthood, Campbell said, “I always knew that one day I would be a mother, but it’s the biggest joy I could ever imagine. I’m lucky to have her and I know that. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done.”

    When the supermodel announced the birth of her daughter in 2021, she captioned the post, “So honoured to have this gentle soul in my life, there are no words to describe the lifelong bond that I now share with you, my angel. There is no greater love”.

    She has proven again that truly it is never too late to become a mother.

  • BBNaija reunion: My relationship genuine from start to finish, says Beauty

    BBNaija reunion: My relationship genuine from start to finish, says Beauty

    Former Big Brother Naija Season 7 housemate, Beauty Tukura has stated that despite the toxic nature of her relationship with colleague Groovy, her love for him was genuine.

    She insisted on not being swayed by any strategy or game plan with Groovy, stressing that she is a realist.

    Beauty, who because of the toxicity of her relationship got disqualified, reiterated how she never faulted her estranged lover for it.

    The reality star stated this during the ‘Level Up’ reunion show episode 9 on Thursday night.

    She said: “My relationship with Groovy was real at that time. I was being genuine from start to finish. And that was what it was.

    Read Also: BBNaija reunion: Eloswag, Chomzy fall apart

    “It wasn’t a game to me. I was just being me. This is how I am even outside the House, that is how I am; if I like you, I like you, if I don’t like you, I don’t like you.”

    Defending himself, Groovy said Beauty was the one who body-shamed and broke up with him.

    He said he was hurt when some of the housemates labelled him as “player” after the incident.

    Groovy said, “Let’s not forget that this is an adult that has the ability to make decisions.
    “I came clean. I’m a real person. I didn’t come with any games, I didn’t come with anything. So, it really hurt me when the Level 2 people started saying, Groovy is trying to play, Groovy is this, Groovy is that. And that kind of isolated me a lot from the group.”

    “This is literally a lady that ended the relationship. Body-shamed me,” he lamented.