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  • Lagos rep promotes talent hunts among youth, gifts N3m to winners

    Lagos rep promotes talent hunts among youth, gifts N3m to winners

    A legislator, Hon. Kalejaiye Paul has tasked Nigerian youths to dedicate themselves towards promoting their inborn talents and avoid the bandwagon of japa syndrome. 

    The lawmaker, who represents Ajeromi Ifelodun federal constitency in the Geen Chamber of the National Assembly, gave the charge on Sunday, December 24, in Lagos during a musical concert and talent hunt he hosted in his constituency. 

    The event, which was organised by the lawmaker, featured competitions from 200 church choirs in Ajeromi-Ifelodun with six churches in the final stage. 

    The finalists that got a sum of N3 million, include Holy Mount of Delight and Fulfilment Church; CCC Alfa and Omega; CAC MBA Coke Ayo; Christ the king Catholic Church, Alaba Oro; First Baptist Church, Amukoko; and RCCG, Habitation Refuge. 

    Explaining why he organised the talent hunt, Kalejaiye, who revealed that his vision was about appreciating God and keeping his vow for winning the election, noted that millions of Nigerian youths are endowed with talents that are wasting away. 

    He said: “What I try to do is to encourage a healthy competition among the choristers.

    “We had over 200 entries from various churches and we had the preliminary process. we had elimination, quarter final and semi final. 

    “Today we are going to present six finalist out of whom we will have the first, second and third. 

    “The first price goes away with one million naira, the second price goes with N750,000 and the third goes with N500,000. Other prices are N250,000, N150,000.”

    He, however, lamented the japa syndrome in the country.

    The lawmaker stated: “Unfortunately, japa syndrome has become a phenomenal in recent time. People japa because they believe there are greener pastures and that Nigeria offers nothing. 

    “But I want to encourage them to say that Nigeria offers the best.

    “Even the japa we are talking about, you see graduate go there to wash coffins, security jobs and other. 

    “These are menial jobs they don’t want to do here but when they get abroad they do just any job to make money. 

    “While I want to discourage the japa syndrome, my appeal is for us to engage in programmes like this where people that are talented can be spotted and encouraged. I also intend to pursuit the skill accusation.”

    Read Also: Drone inventor, 29 other youths bag U-30 Arewa Star Awards

    In his address, the chairman of the Talent Hunt and Judges Committee, Olusegun Osinaike, who said such event has the capacity to enhance both human capital and the nation’s economy, urged Nigerian politicians to unveil initiatives and programmes that will positively impact lives.

    The Olu of Iwa and Apapa Kingdom, Oba Moroof Oluwa, who commended the initiative, said such will discourage youths from roaming about. 

    He said: “I want to thank our good representative, Hon. Kalejaiye Paul. He is representing us well. He has been contributing a lot to the development of this area and he is one of our best because he has been presenting things that will enhance this area.”

    The monarch thanked Hon. Kalejaiye for his good deeds.

    He stated: “I  want to thank our good representative, Hon. Kalejaiye Paul. He is representing us well. He has been contributing a lot to the development of this area and he is one of our best because he has been presenting things that will enhance this area.”

  • Tinubu celebrates Oodu’a Investment’s chair, Ashiru at 60

    Tinubu celebrates Oodu’a Investment’s chair, Ashiru at 60

    President Bola Tinubu has celebrated Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, the chairman of Oodu’a Investment Company Limited, a conglomerate owned by the governments of southwest states, as he turns 60 years old.

    President Tinubu’s message to Otunba Ashiru was contained in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, on Monday, December 25.

    The president commended Otunba Ashiru for his significant contributions to the private sector and public service, extolling him as a quintessential gentleman, a bridge builder, and an advocate of economic development.

    Read Also: Tinubu celebrates Ganduje at 74

    Highlighting the dexterous efforts of the former Stanbic IBTC Bank Director and former Commissioner for Commerce and Industry in Ogun State, President Tinubu recalled that Otunba Ashiru’s tenacity, innovative thinking, and relentless drive made him Commissioner of the year during his time in office and that he continued to distinguish himself even in his position as Chairman of the Odu’a Investment Company Limited, a role that has further demonstrated his vision and foresight.

    He said: “While wishing Otunba Ashiru peace and happiness, the President acknowledges the deep impact the exceptional administrator has had on the growth and development of businesses and the private sector in Nigeria at large. 

    “President Tinubu prays that this year and the ones to come will bring Otunba Ashiru and his family tremendous joy and every good thing in life that they desire.”

  • Alia: Be wary of indolent federal legislators

    Alia: Be wary of indolent federal legislators

    Benue state governor, Hyacinth Alia on Monday, December 25, urged the people to be wary of indolent federal lawmakers fanning the embers of disunity in the northcentral state. 

    The governor said in his Christmas message at the Government House, Makurdi, the state capital that instead of sponsoring bills that guarantee progress, they indulge in propaganda and circulate messages of hate.

    Alia said: “I call on you all to shun acts that dislocate unity amongst us. We must learn to live in harmony with all and sundry irrespective of our various religious, ethnic and political leanings.

    “I admonish you to resist being swayed by desperate, selfish and disgruntled politicians who are only interested in weaponizing you to cause divisions, mischief and disharmony. Always watch out for their media propaganda often couched in press conferences, staged video clips, doctored audio files and messages.

    “Most importantly, watch out especially for those who have abdicated their primary legislative responsibilities which you voted them to Abuja to perform. Be very wary of them at this crucial period as they have sadly failed to jointly sponsor even one newsworthy bill in the whole of the last six months, but have rather resorted to poisoning your minds with hate in the bid to divide and conquer.”

    The governor congratulate residents for witnessing this year’s Christmas, which have give opportunities to exude love for one another, and to share gifts and quality time with the less privileged, friends and families.

    Read Also: Benue Governor Alia: brighter future coming for Nigerians

    He described the festive period as a time to imbibe the timeless values of compassion, tolerance and forgiveness, irrespective of ethnic, cultural and historical differences, as exemplified by the birth and life of Jesus Christ.

    Alia said he personally found this Yuletide very unique, being his first as governor, assuring that he and his team will not let the state down.

    He added: “It is partly for this reason that we recently handed 100 buses to the State-owned Benue Links transport company, mandating them to ensure that every commuter in Benue enjoys subsidized rates of transportation to their various destinations, especially during this Yuletide and afterwards.

    “More so, just last week, I flagged off the distribution of grains and other food items as palliatives across the 276 council wards in the State. 

    “The aim is not only to bring succour to the masses in view of the effects of the removal of fuel subsidy; the move is also geared towards translating ‘Renewed Hope’ into reality in form of tokens of tangible dividends of democracy to cater for our most immediate needs.”

    The governor said prompt payment of workers’ salaries was statutory obligation that has come to stay under my watch, adding that the best was yet to come.

    He reiterated his belief that the birth of Jesus Christ as the Prince of Peace will ignite the people the optimism of hope for a brighter future, urging them to strive for better days by combining their faith with exemplary conduct.

    Alia said:”In this season of hope, I urge you to remember to visit the sick, as well as provide refuge to those who cannot enjoy Christmas at home with their families, or have been sacked from their homes by insurgency or violence, particularly the IDPs.

    “I specially commend all security agencies, the civil society, the youth and all relevant stakeholders across the state, for upping your game during this period. I hope that this patriotic act of yours would be sustained even after the current celebrations.

    “It is my profound conviction that better days lie ahead of us as a people. I look forward to a rancour-free Benue in which goodwill, love, unity and prosperity reign supreme.”

  • Why I intervened in payment of soldiers’ December salaries – Matawalle 

    Why I intervened in payment of soldiers’ December salaries – Matawalle 

    The minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has said that the sacrifices made by the military to keep the country safe and secured is the reason their salaries should be paid promptly.

    The minister said this after he had intervened in the payment of December salaries for soldiers, which was earlier delayed by the concerned authorities.

    The Director of Information and Public Relations in the Ministry of Defence, Henshaw Ogubike, said this in a statement on Monday, December 25.

    Read Also: Matawalle to Military: Don’t let Kaduna accidental bombing deter against terrorists

    According to Ogubike, Matawalle engaged with the Accountant General of the Federation and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to expedite the resolution of the salary payment delay.

    He said: “The Minister’s intervention came at the heat of non-payment of December salary to our Nigerian Soldiers at this festive season.

    Recognizing the critical nature of this matter, Matawalle personally made all necessary contacts with the authorities in charge of payment of salary and our Military officers can now celebrate with their loved ones as their salaries have started dropping to their accounts.”

    “While thanking the concerned authorities for the prompt payment of December salary after his intervention, the minister commended the Military for their dedication and commitment to their duties despite the initial challenge in the payment of their December salary.

    “He hopes the payment will boost your morale to carry on your constitutional duty of protecting the nation.

    “He urged Nigerians irrespective of their religion to pray for the Military officers who are out there protecting us and the territorial integrity of our nation.”

  • Transport palliative: FG’s 50% rebate extended to 128 non-luxury bus passengers in Abuja

    Transport palliative: FG’s 50% rebate extended to 128 non-luxury bus passengers in Abuja

    The federal government‘s 50% transportation rebate palliative got expanded on Monday, December 25, as 128 road transport passengers on northern routs received the refund of 50% of their fares from one of the groups monitoring the implementation.

    Federal government had last week announced the transportation rebate as part of President Bola Tinubu administration’s ways of intervening and relieving Nigerians of the current harsh economic realities, especially as many would have to travel to different parts of the country to celebrate Christmas and New Year festivities with loved ones.

    The palliative, which saw road transport cutting back 50% of regular fares and zero cost for train services, where they operate in the country, however strictly clarified that road transport rebate would be applicable to 28 luxury bus service routs nationwide.

    However, a statement issued on Monday by Director of Press and Public Relations of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Olujimi Oyetomi, the Association of Luxury Bus Owners (ALBON) extended part of its mandate to passengers traveling with National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), returning 50% of their fares to them.

    “Implementing the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for 50% discount on transport fares for Nigerians during the yuletide got a serious boost especially as 128 (One Hundred and Twenty-Eight travellers from Abuja, but bound for destinations in the North – Gombe, Bauchi, Yola and Maiduguri were freighted to their destinations paying only half of the transport fares charged for each of their destinations, as monitored by Federal Ministry of Transportation (FMT) Situation Room Monitoring Team on Christmas Day, 25th of December, 2023.  

    “The north bound passengers got immediate reimbursement of 50% of the transport fares paid upon boarding their vehicles, by the Chairman of the Association of Luxury Bus Owners (ALBON)’s Task Force on the Implementation of the discount, Chief Clement Okuefuna who personally conducted the disbursement in cash at the Area 1 Motor Park from where most of the buses which conveyed the passengers took off on Christmas day, 25th of December, 2023.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu approves 50% rebate for inter-states travels

    “Since the routes to the north were mostly serviced by low-capacity vehicles as opposed to high-capacity luxury vehicles, ALBON has initiated a work arrangement with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), FCT Chapter to service the routes. ALBON also made good its promise to publicise venues for boarding the vehicles where passengers could be reimbursed 50% of the fares paid.  

    “Starting from as early as 5 am on Christmas Day, four (4 Nos) 16-seater capacity buses began loading, their passengers given back half of the fares paid and despatched to Gombe from Area 1 Park in Abuja.  One 16-seater capacity bus was loaded with travellers who also got the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s discount of 50% and despatched for Bauchi.  Additional loaded and headed for Yola while yet another loaded and headed for Maiduguri.

    “The last 16-seater passenger bus which loaded, got its passenger refunded half of the transport fares paid back to them and heading for Bauchi and Maiduguri rounded off the operation at Area 1 Motor Park, Abuja. Thus, eight (8) buses loaded with 16 passengers each, totalling 128 (One Hundred and Twenty-Eight cheerful Nigerians got refunded half of transport fares they paid, courtesy of the directive and provisions made for the special period of Christmas (2023) and New Year (palliative ending on January, 4th, 2024).  

    “It was therefore no wonder to hear the politically conscious northern Nigerians cheering and chanting “Jagaban, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, 4 plus 4”, even when the intention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR in directing the transport palliative wasn’t towards a political end, but to renew hopes for a better Nigeria

  • Gunmen attack Catholic Church In Ebonyi state, kill three worshippers

    Gunmen attack Catholic Church In Ebonyi state, kill three worshippers

    Some gunmen on Christmas eve attacked a Catholic Church in Abakaliki, Ebonyi state and killed three worshippers.

    Bishop of Abakaliki Diocese, Most Rev. Peter Nworie confirmed the attack. 

    Nworie disclosed this at Monday’s Christmas service at Saint Theresa Cathedral Church.

    He said the killing occurred at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Nkweagu, in Abakaliki local government Area of Ebonyi state at 11:30 pm on Sunday, December 24.

    The bishop, who described the incident as sad and disheartening, prayed for the repose of their souls.

    Read Also: Re-run: Umahi’s brother declares for Ebonyi South

    He explained that the suspected killers invaded the church while a priest was celebrating a vigil mass service and killed and injured many others.

    According to Nworie, such an unfortunate act had never happened in the church in the state.

    He  said: “This is the first time such an incident has happened in the church and in Ebonyi State in general.”

    Earlier, the cleric, in his sermon, encouraged people to align themselves with the significance and teaching of Christmas.

    He urged the faithful to pray for the unity and progress of the state and nation.

    The Police in Ebonyi could not be reached for comments at the time of this report.

  • CAN president to Nigerians: don’t lose hope, preach peace, unity

    CAN president to Nigerians: don’t lose hope, preach peace, unity

    The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh has urged Nigerians not to loss hope inspite of the economic challenges.

    Okoh advised Christians to be champions of peace and unity, setting aside differences and promoting genuine reconciliation, understanding, and unity among all Nigerians. 

    The CAN president in his Christmas message issued on Monday pleaded with christians to use the season to renew commitment to building a better Nigeria for future generations. 

    He said: “On behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), I extend warm greetings and good wishes to all Nigerians as we celebrate the joyous occasion of Christmas.

    “On the night when Jesus was born, the hosts of heaven were singing a joyful song, saying “Glory to God in the highest, peace on earth, and goodwill to men.” Luke 2:14 (NIV). Christmas, therefore, holds great significance for Christians worldwide, serving as a poignant reminder of the genuine reconciliation initiated by God’s love to restore the hope of mankind to live forever.

    “During this season, we are reminded to seek to be more like Jesus by reaching out to our neighbors with words of peace. In a diverse country like Nigeria, characterized by multiple ethnicities and religions, we must always strive to seek what unites and binds us together rather than what divides us.

    Read Also: Christmas: This season epitomizes love, peace, joy for all mankind – Peter Obi

    “In this context, reconciliation signifies more than the absence of conflict; it signifies the presence of genuine love, respect, and acceptance for one another.

    “As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, we are reminded of the transformative power of forgiveness, compassion, and empathy. This season presents us with an opportunity to reflect on our individual and collective actions, seek forgiveness where necessary, and extend a hand of reconciliation to those we may have wronged or who have wronged us. Let us emulate the example set by Jesus Christ and strive to cultivate a culture of forgiveness and understanding in our communities and nation at large.

    “As Nigerians, we are faced with numerous challenges, but we must not lose hope. Instead, we must use this season to renew our commitment to building a better Nigeria for future generations. Let us work towards fostering an environment where every Nigerian can thrive, where justice and equity prevail, and where peace and prosperity abound.

    “Though we may be experiencing economic hardship, let us not forget those who are on the margins of society. We must share our resources with them and give them a sense of belonging, as Christ would do. Let us strive to build a nation where peace, justice, and unity prevail. May the joy and blessings of Christmas be with you all.”

  • Olugbon: I didn’t vacate my seat for Pastor Adeboye 

    Olugbon: I didn’t vacate my seat for Pastor Adeboye 

    The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, has denied vacating his seat for the General Overseer, the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Pastor Enoch Adeboye at the church’s evangelism programme at Orile-Igbon on Friday, December 22.

    Criticism had trailed a photo which circulated on social media at the weekend showing the priest sitting on a royal chair on which the monarch’s name and title were inscribed at the event.

    Some people argued that the photo showed that Oba Alao surrendered his throne to the preacher, describing it as an insult to Yoruba culture.

    But in a statement in which he also felicitated Christians on the occasion of this year’s Christmas, the monarch took cognizance of the social media brouhaha, explaining  that the said chair was only one of the royal chairs in the palace that are offered top dignitaries such as presidents, governors and persons of Pastor Adeboye’s status. 

    He pointed out that his name and title are inscribed on all those royal chairs.

    The monarch said there was no need to misinterpret a simple act of giving honour to whom it is due, stressing that his personal traditional chair cannot be given to any other person due to its spiritual and historical significance.

    The statement read: “I hereby felicitate Christians on this another occasion of celebrating the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ which is a worldwide celebration.

    Read Also: Stop disgracing our heritage – Internet users criticise Adeboye for sitting on Oyo monarch’s throne

    “I urge all followers of Christ in Nigeria to use this period to reflect on the multiple blessings of God, particularly the grace to be alive to witness another Christmas.

    “Aside eating and drinking to celebrate his birth, Christmas is a time to make a new commitment to ensuring that our lives mirror Christ in every way. We should make commitment to a life of righteousness, honesty and showing love to fellow men regardless of their faith and cultural beliefs.

    “Meanwhile, my attention has been drawn to different types of reactions to a photo circulating on social media where the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye sat on one of the palace chairs.

    “Let me set the record straight by reminding all that Pastor Adeboye was in Orile-Igbon for an evangelism programme which held on the playground of Olugbon High School. His chopper landed in an open space within the palace from where I received him to my living room.

    “We spent some time talking about Nigeria and Orile-Igbon before we moved to the venue of the programme where thousands of people already gathered.

    “I joined the reverred priest to the venue as a mark of support for the programme given that his coming to the ancient town will be a blessing to us. And he did pray for both the town and everyone that attended.

    “As a mark of honour, I offered one of the ceremonial royal chairs that are usually reserved for top dignitaries to Pastor Adeboye to be used at the programme. It should be noted that the chair is not the particular one that is reserved for the Olugbon which can not be shared with anyone because of its spiritual and historical significance.

    “The royal chairs are provided in palaces to honour high-ranking dignitaries, not to desecrate the throne.

    “I, therefore, seek understanding of all those expressing concern about the issue. There is a traditional royal chair that is meant for only the Kabiyesi, and there are traditional ceremonial chairs for very important persons.

    “The throne of the ancient town of Orile-Igbon remains sacrosanct. I thank all well-wishers for their understanding and support.”

  • Why I’m still single at 41 – Actress Ini Edo

    Why I’m still single at 41 – Actress Ini Edo

    Popular Nollywood actress, Ini Obong Edo, has opened up on the reasons she is still single at 41. 

    She said she is still single because she is yet to find true love devoid of toxic traits.

    The thespian revealed this in a recent episode of Toke Makinwa’s podcast.

    She said: “I am still single because I just want somebody that would really love me. That’s all. I’m not asking for too much.

    “Not like I don’t see love. Loving somebody and being loved are two different things. You can love someone but you are not ready to be committed. Maybe this is why I’m still single: I can’t be in a toxic relationship.

    Read Also: Why some men don’t like overly successful women – Actress Ini Edo

    “If you cannot give me that protective energy that allows me to respect you… I can not be with a man that I don’t respect. If you can not earn my respect, then we cannot be together. 

    “Because what’s the point? When it gets to the point when I start to disrespect you, that means you have brought yourself down to a point where I begin to talk back at you. Sometimes, it’s not even about having money. It’s about how you are able to love and manage situations and the people around you. Kindness!”

    Recall that Ini Edo got married to an American-based businessman, Philip Ehiagwina in November 29, 2008 and it lasted for five years. 

    In 2021, the actress announced the arrival of her first child, a girl through surrogacy.

  • Christmas: This season epitomizes love, peace, joy for all mankind – Peter Obi

    Christmas: This season epitomizes love, peace, joy for all mankind – Peter Obi

    The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the last election, Peter Obi, has urged Christians to embrace love, peace and joy during Christmas.

    Obi, who posted on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday, also emphasized for leaders to reach out to the less privileged.

    While lamenting the economic hardship confronting Nigerians, urged them not to allow it to hinder them from “appreciating the essence of our creation and the importance of seeking God’s mercy at all times”.

    He wrote: “I wish you all a Merry Christmas as you join the Christendom to celebrate the anniversary of Jesus Christ.

    “This season epitomizes love, peace and joy for all mankind. These are values and longings that unify our common humanity in a feast of love.

    “This is why I wish to share the spirit of this season with all our compatriots irrespective of station, circumstance and persuasion. I fully acknowledge the difficulties of these times in our dear country.

    “The hardship in the country, the biting effects of bad government policies and poor governance have dampened the hopes of most Nigerians. The difficulties and challenges of this moment should not however hinder us from appreciating the essence of our creation and the importance of seeking God’s mercy at all times.

    Read Also: Christmas: PDP calls for unity, love

    “Furthermore, our current setbacks should not stop us as a people from aspiring to overcome present difficulties and realize the full potential of our blessed country.

    “I therefore enjoin you to use this great feast to offer special supplications to God for our country so that we can have the opportunity of joining others in the global community to give thanks to God for the abundant gifts he lavished on us as a nation. As leaders, we must embrace the spirit of this season which emphasizes charity.

    “For leaders, charity underlines compassion for the people in their present hardship. For us as a people, charity means sharing with our neighbours and the less privileged our material blessings.

    “On this unique occasion, I wish to reassure our people that our adversity shall not persist for too long as we look forward to a New Nigeria.”