President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday called on Nigerians to make national unity, peace, stability and progress of the country a priority in the new year.
The president also promised Nigerian youths more jobs in 2014, as well as improved well-being for the citizenry through focused implementation of the Transformation Agenda.
In a six-page New Year message, the President, who restated that the amalgamation of the country exactly 100 years ago was not a mistake but a blessing, however, said that the centenary of the country’s nationhood was a moment for sober reflection.
Enumerating the achievements of his administration last year, the president said he would this year “diligently carry forward the purposeful and focused implementation of our agenda for national transformation in priority areas such as power, the rehabilitation and expansion of national infrastructure, agricultural development, education and employment generation.”
Dear Compatriots,
I greet and felicitate with you all as we enter the year 2014 which promises to be a momentous one for our country for several reasons, including the fact that it is also the year of our great nation’s centenary celebrations. I join you all in giving thanks to God Almighty for guiding us and our beloved nation safely through all the challenges of the outgoing year to the beginning of 2014.
Exactly 100 years ago today, on January 1, 1914, the British Colonial authorities amalgamated what was then the separate Protectorates of Southern Nigeria and Northern Nigeria, giving birth to the single geopolitical entity known as Nigeria. For us therefore, today is not just the beginning of a new year, but the end of a century of national existence and the beginning of another. It is a moment for sober reflection and for pride in all that is great about Nigeria.
Whatever challenges we may have faced, whatever storms we may have confronted and survived, Nigeria remains a truly blessed country, a country of gifted men and women who continue to distinguish themselves in all spheres of life, a country whose diversity remains a source of strength. We pay tribute today, as always to our founding fathers and mothers, and all the heroes and heroines whose toil and sweat over the century made this country what it is today.
As I noted, a few days ago, the amalgamation of 1914 was certainly not a mistake but a blessing. As we celebrate 100 years of nationhood, we must resolve to continue to work together as one, united people, to make our country even greater.
I assure you that our administration remains fully committed to the progressive development of our country and the consolidation of peace, unity and democratic governance in our fatherland. Despite several continuing domestic and global challenges, for us in Nigeria, the year 2013 witnessed many positive developments which we will strive to build upon in 2014.
We have diligently carried forward the purposeful and focused implementation of our agenda for national transformation in priority areas such as power, the rehabilitation and expansion of national infrastructure, agricultural development, education and employment generation.
You may recall that our 2013 Budget was on the theme, “Fiscal Consolidation with Inclusive Growth”, and I emphasized the need for us to “remain prudent with our fiscal resources and also ensure that the Nigerian economy keeps growing and creating jobs”. I am pleased to report that we have stayed focused on this goal.
Our national budget for 2014 which is now before the National Assembly is specifically targeted at job creation and inclusive growth. We are keenly aware that in spite of the estimated 1.6 million new jobs created across the country in the past 12 months as a result of our actions and policies, more jobs are still needed to support our growing population. Our economic priorities will be stability and equitable growth, building on the diverse sectors of our economy.
In 2013, we commenced implementation of the National Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) aimed at industrializing Nigeria and diversifying our economy into sectors such as agro-processing, light manufacturing, and petrochemicals. We have also negotiated a strong Common External Tariff (CET) agreement with our ECOWAS partners which would enable us to protect our strategic industries where necessary.
I am pleased to note that as a result of our backward integration policies, Nigeria has moved from a country that produced 2 million metric tonnes of cement in 2002, to a country that now has a capacity of 28.5 million metric tonnes. For the first time in our history, we have moved from being a net importer of cement to a net exporter.
Foreign direct investment into Nigeria has also been strong. In fact, for the second year running, the UN Conference on Trade and Development has named Nigeria as the number 1 destination for investments in Africa.
We are witnessing a revolution in the agricultural sector and the results are evident. We have tackled corruption in the input distribution system as many farmers now obtain their fertilizers and seeds directly through an e-wallet system. In 2013, 4.2 million farmers received subsidized inputs via this programme. This scheme has restored dignity to our farmers.
Last year we produced over 8 million metric tonnes of additional food; and this year, inflation fell to its lowest level since 2008 partly due to higher domestic food production. Our food import bill has also reduced from N1.1 trillion in 2011, to N648 billion in 2012, placing Nigeria firmly on the path to food self-sufficiency.
The sector is also supporting more jobs. Last year, we produced 1.1 million metric tonnes of dry season rice across 10 Northern states; and over 250,000 farmers and youths in these States are now profitably engaged in farming even during the dry season.
This Administration is also developing our water resources which are key for both our food production and job creation goals. In 2013, we completed the construction of nine dams which increased the volume of our water reservoirs by 422 million cubic metres. Through our irrigation and drainage programme, we have increased the total irrigated area by over 31,000 hectares creating jobs for over 75,000 farming families while increasing production of over 400,000 metric tons of assorted irrigated food products.
Fellow Compatriots, I have always believed that the single greatest thing we can do to ensure all Nigerians realize their potential and play a full part in our nation’s future, is to invest in education. The education of our young people is a key priority for this Government. We take this responsibility very seriously and I urge all other stakeholders in the sector to recognize the national importance of their work, and to help advance the cause of education in our nation.
Between 2007 and 2013, we have almost tripled the allocation for education from N224 billion to N634 billion – and we will continue to vigorously support the sector. We have improved access to education in the country with the construction of 125 Almajiri schools, and the establishment of three additional Federal Universities in the North, bringing to twelve, the number of universities established by this administration.
In 2013, we rehabilitated 352 laboratories and constructed 72 new libraries in the Federal Unity Schools; and also rehabilitated laboratories of all the 51 Federal and State polytechnics across the country.
In the Health sector, we are building strong safety nets and improving access to primary health care under the Saving One Million Lives programme. In 2013, we recruited 11,300 frontline health workers who were deployed to under-served communities across the country. Over 400,000 lives have been saved through our various interventions. We have reached over 10,000 women and children with conditional cash transfer programmes across 8 States and the FCT and we intend to scale up this successful initiative.
Our national immunization coverage has exceeded 80%. And for the first time in the history of the country there has not been any transmission of the Type-3 Wild Polio virus for more than one year. We have also eradicated the guinea worm that previously affected the lives of over 800,000 Nigerians yearly. In tertiary health care, we upgraded medical facilities across the country. Two of our teaching hospitals – the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital in Enugu, and the University College Hospital in Ibadan – commenced open heart surgeries this year after the installation of new facilities.
Fellow Nigerians, I have dwelt on some of our administration’s achievements in 2013 to reassure you that we are working and results are being achieved on the ground. As we enter our Centennial year, there is still much work ahead. We are determined to sustain our strong macroeconomic fundamentals, to strengthen our domestic institutions, and to invest in priority sectors. These investments will create more jobs for our youth. Government will at the same time, continue to scale-up investments in safety nets and the MDGs to take care of the poor and the vulnerable so that they too can share in our growth and prosperity.
In 2014, we will continue to prioritize investments in key sectors such as infrastructure development, power, roads, rail transportation and aviation. In the past year, the Federal Government completed the privatization of four power generation companies and 10 power distribution companies. We are also in the process of privatizing 10 power plants under the National Integrated Power Projects (NIPP).
We shall boost investments in transmission to ensure power generated is properly evacuated and distributed. In this regard, we have already mobilized an additional $1.5 billion for the upgrade of the transmission network in 2014 and beyond. Government will also strengthen regulation of the sector, and closely monitor electricity delivery to increase this beyond 18 hours per day. We will complete the privatization of the NIPP projects, accelerate work on our gas pipeline infrastructure and also continue to invest in hydro-electric power and clean energy as we monitor the effects of climate change on our economy.
Our administration believes that the cost of governance in the country is still too high and must be further reduced. We will also take additional steps to stem the tide of corruption and leakages. We have worked hard to curb fraud in the administration of the pension system and the implementation of the petroleum subsidy scheme. We have introduced a Pensions Transition Arrangement Department under a new Director-General. This department will now ensure that those of our pensioners still under the old scheme receive their pensions and gratuities, and are not subjected to fraud. Prosecution of all those involved in robbing our retired people will continue. The Petroleum Subsidy Scheme is also now being operated under new strict guidelines to tackle previous leakages in the scheme and prevent fraud.
Foreign travel by government personnel will be further curtailed. This directive shall apply to all Ministries, Departments and Agencies of the Federal Government. Our strategy to curb leakages will increasingly rely on introducing the right technologies such as biometrics and digitizing government payments.
I am therefore pleased to inform you that we shall complete the deployment of the three electronic platforms in 2014 – namely, the Treasury Single Account (TSA), the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS) and the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) – which are all geared towards improving efficiency and transparency in our public finances. Through these reforms, we have already saved about N126 billion in leaked funds and intend to save more.
To sustain Nigeria’s ongoing agricultural transformation, we have planned further investments in the sector. We will provide input subsidies to five million farmers nationwide using the e-wallet system. This Administration recently launched a self-employment initiative under the Youth Employment in Agriculture Programme (YEAP), called the Nagropreneur programme. This scheme would encourage our youth to go into commercial agriculture as entrepreneurs and we plan to develop over 750,000 young Nagropreneurs by 2015.
We will also establish new agro-industrial clusters to complement the staple crop processing zones being developed across the country. In 2014, this Administration will continue to work with the private sector to improve financing in the agricultural sector. For example, we will launch the Fund for Agricultural Finance in Nigeria (FAFIN) which will serve as a private equity fund to invest in agri-businesses across the country.
Our Small and Medium scale enterprises (SMEs) will be the bedrock of Nigeria’s industrialization. We have about 17 million registered SMEs, and they employ over 32 million Nigerians. When our SMEs grow, more jobs will be created for our youth. Therefore, in 2014, this Administration will focus strongly on implementing the Nigeria Enterprise Development Programme (NEDEP) to address the needs of small businesses. Our interventions will include helping SMEs with access to affordable finance, business development services, and youth training. In addition, our new CET policies will enable us to support our emerging industries.
We will also intensify our investment promotion efforts abroad, to ensure we bring the biggest and best companies from around the world to invest in Nigeria.
Dear Compatriots, the housing and construction industry is a critical sector in most developed economies. When the housing sector booms, it creates additional jobs for architects and masons, for electricians and plumbers, forpainters and interior decorators, and for those in the cement and furniture industries.
Today, I am pleased to inform you that this Administration is reinvigorating our housing and construction sector. We have established the Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC) which will increase liquidity in the housing sector, provide a secondary market for mortgages, and thereby increase the number of people able to purchase or build homes at an affordable price in the country.
In 2014, we will work in a number of pilot states where the State Governors have agreed to provide fast-track land titles, foreclosure arrangements, and serviced plots. This new institution will enable us to create over 200,000 mortgages over the next five years at affordable interest rates. In addition, those at the lower end of the economic ladder will not be left behind as this new initiative will expand mass housing schemes through a re-structured Federal Mortgage Bank and other institutions to provide rent-to-own and lease-to-own options. I am confident that very soon, many more hardworking Nigerian families will be able to realize their dream of owning a home.
In this our centenary year, we will continue our efforts, through the Saving One Million Lives initiative to strengthen primary health care services. We will scale up interventions in reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health, nutrition, routine immunization, HIV/AIDS, malaria elimination, tuberculosis, neglected tropical diseases, and non-communicable diseases. We will pay greater attention to the provision of universal health coverage. Besides the implementation of new initiatives such as my comprehensive response plan for HIV/AIDS, we shall continue to collaborate with global health partners to deliver our health sector transformation agenda.
I am glad that the issues responsible for the long-drawn ASUU strike have been resolved and our children are returning to their campuses. We are committed to making our tertiary institutions true centers of learning for our young people. We will therefore focus on upgrading hostels, laboratories, classrooms, and halls. As the 2015 deadline for the Millennium Development Goals approaches, we will continue to expand access to basic education for all Nigerian children. Working with State Governments, we shall decisively tackle the problem of the large numbers of out-of-school children in this country. We will also invest in technical and vocational education to promote skills development for our youth across the country.
Nigerian entrepreneurs still lack access to affordable financing, with medium-to-long-term tenors. To address this gap, a new wholesale development finance institution will be established in 2014 to provide medium-to long-term financing for Nigerian businesses. We are working with partners such as the World Bank, the Africa Development Bank, the BNDES Bank in Brazil, and KfW in Germany, to realize this project. Our existing Bank of Agriculture and Bank of Industry will be re-structured as specialized institutions to retail financing from this new wholesale development bank.
In addition to the foregoing, our administration will also do all within its powers to ensure the success of the forthcoming National Conference. The report of the Presidential Advisory Committee on the Conference is undergoing urgent review and the approved structure, guidelines and modalities for the conference will soon be published as a prelude to its commencement and expeditious conclusion.
It remains our sincere hope and expectation that the success of the national conference will further enhance national unity, peace and cohesion as we move ahead to the 2015 general elections.
In keeping with our avowed commitment to progressively enhancing the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process by consistently upholding the principle of one man, one vote, our Administration will also ensure that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) receives all required support to ensure that it is adequately prepared for the next general elections.
As peace and security remain prerequisite conditions for the full realization of our objectives, we will also do more in 2014 to further empower our security agencies who are working in collaborative partnerships with our friends in the international community to stem the scourge of terrorism in our country and enhance the security of lives and property in all parts of Nigeria. The allocation of over N600 Billion to Defence and Policing in the 2014 Budget attests to this commitment.
Fellow compatriots, the task of making our dear nation a much better place for present and future generations cannot be left to government alone. I therefore urge you all to be ready and willing to do more this year to support the implementation of the Federal Government’s Agenda for National Transformation in every possible way.
Let us all therefore resolve as we celebrate the new year, and Nigeria’s Centenary, to place the higher interests of national unity, peace, stability and progress above all other considerations and work harder in our particular fields of human endeavour to contribute more significantly to the attainment of our collective aspirations. I urge all Nigerians, no matter their stations in life, to rededicate themselves to contributing meaningfully to further enrich our national heritage. The time for that re-dedication is now, not tomorrow.
I wish you all a happy and rewarding 2014. God bless Nigeria. Happy New Year.
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
2013 Glo-CAF Award: Mikel heads for showdown with Yaya Toure, Drogba
Nigeria’s John Obi Mikel will battle Ivorian pair, Yaya Toure and Didier Drogba for the 2013 Glo-CAF African Footballer of the Year Award.
The Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) announced on Tuesday that the trio had made the final list of nominees as Nigeria’s striker Emmanuel Emenike and goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama dropped out.
Sunday Mba, another Nigerian is in the race for honour as the Rangers International attacking midfieder has scaled the final hurdle for the African Footballer of the Year for players based in Africa.
However, he has Egyptian duo, Ahmed Fathy and Mohamed Abou Trika as obstacles to the title.
The winners will be announced on January 9 at the GLO-CAF Awards Gala to be held in Lagos, Nigeria.
Nwankwo Kanu, then of Arsenal FC of England, is the last Nigerian who won the African Footballer of The Year title way back in 1999.
Yaya Toure is the current holder of the title.
The Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) announced on Tuesday that the trio had made the final list of nominees as Nigeria’s striker Emmanuel Emenike and goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama dropped out.
Sunday Mba, another Nigerian is in the race for honour as the Rangers International attacking midfieder has scaled the final hurdle for the African Footballer of the Year for players based in Africa.
However, he has Egyptian duo, Ahmed Fathy and Mohamed Abou Trika as obstacles to the title.
The winners will be announced on January 9 at the GLO-CAF Awards Gala to be held in Lagos, Nigeria.
Nwankwo Kanu, then of Arsenal FC of England, is the last Nigerian who won the African Footballer of The Year title way back in 1999.
Yaya Toure is the current holder of the title.
A middle-aged man sets self ablaze in Abuja
Less than 24 hours to the New Year, a middle-aged man has committed suicide by setting himself ablaze at his Gwarimpa residence in Abuja on Tuesday.
Though details of the incident was sketchy at the time of filing this report, it was gathered that the smoke from the man’s apartment attracted neighbours, who on getting to his residence, found his charred remains.
The police evacuated the corpse to the mortuary of the General Hospital, Kubwa, Abuja.
Though details of the incident was sketchy at the time of filing this report, it was gathered that the smoke from the man’s apartment attracted neighbours, who on getting to his residence, found his charred remains.
The police evacuated the corpse to the mortuary of the General Hospital, Kubwa, Abuja.
8 things a lady shouldn't do in the presence of a man
Here with the help of our friends we are going to dissect some few immediate turn offs men see in some ladies:
[1] Farting In Our Presence
Men hate this to the core, they may pretend not to but they really hate when you do it in their presence. If you doubt me, go and ask a man whom you don't know to tell you what he thinks of a lady who fart or always fart in front of him.
[2] Eating too much
Whenever you Ladies are in our Presence please try to control your eating habits. Not that we're too broke to buy you Food but eating without Class just because your indoors is disgusting to say the least!
[3] Washing of your undies (panties)
Please try to reduce the amount of times you wash your undies in our presence. Forget that popular slang
which tends to say that when a man loves you, he can even wash your undies, we're not that cool with seeing someone else's undies!
[4] Talking too dirty
Please, have control of things you say in our presence. Don’t be too naughty when it comes to your language except you want to remain a GIRLFRIEND FOR LIFE!!!!!
[5] Laughing excessively
Control the length you laugh in front of us. When we're not around, you can laugh and bring down the roof if you wish. I was talking to a lady and she laughed so loud that she didn't know when she polluted.
[6] Always watching movies
If your a Nollywood addict please, for the sake of not receiving any RED CARD, stop giving all your time to once your man is around. We need total concentration when we are talking to you
[7] Fighting
Never you fight in front of your man, he may feel that one day you will fight his mother.
[8] i Too Know attitude
Its very annoying when you always act like you know everything. When we argue about sports,romance,friends etc its cool for you to let us win sometimes as it would do you no harm than try to make sure you POV is the most correct even when its not. [Source: Nairaland]
Do you agree with the writer?
[1] Farting In Our Presence
Men hate this to the core, they may pretend not to but they really hate when you do it in their presence. If you doubt me, go and ask a man whom you don't know to tell you what he thinks of a lady who fart or always fart in front of him.
[2] Eating too much
Whenever you Ladies are in our Presence please try to control your eating habits. Not that we're too broke to buy you Food but eating without Class just because your indoors is disgusting to say the least!
[3] Washing of your undies (panties)
Please try to reduce the amount of times you wash your undies in our presence. Forget that popular slang
which tends to say that when a man loves you, he can even wash your undies, we're not that cool with seeing someone else's undies!
[4] Talking too dirty
Please, have control of things you say in our presence. Don’t be too naughty when it comes to your language except you want to remain a GIRLFRIEND FOR LIFE!!!!!
[5] Laughing excessively
Control the length you laugh in front of us. When we're not around, you can laugh and bring down the roof if you wish. I was talking to a lady and she laughed so loud that she didn't know when she polluted.
[6] Always watching movies
If your a Nollywood addict please, for the sake of not receiving any RED CARD, stop giving all your time to once your man is around. We need total concentration when we are talking to you
[7] Fighting
Never you fight in front of your man, he may feel that one day you will fight his mother.
[8] i Too Know attitude
Its very annoying when you always act like you know everything. When we argue about sports,romance,friends etc its cool for you to let us win sometimes as it would do you no harm than try to make sure you POV is the most correct even when its not. [Source: Nairaland]
Do you agree with the writer?
“Many giant nations will become small nations..” – TB Joshua prophesies about 2014
On Sunday, December 29, 2013 the auditorium of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) in Nigeria was packed with thousands of international visitors, including Malawian president Joyce Banda, as Prophet T.B. Joshua showed them a letter from South Sudan president Salva Kiir asking for prayers after hearing of the prophecy he gave concerning his nation.
The prophet then instructed his congregation to pray for cease fire and reconciliation.
After the prayer, T.B. Joshua started to prophesy about the coming year of 2014.
He said that “Many giant nations will become small nations and many small nations will become giant nations.” In particular he mentioned that the country Russia was to face trouble soon.
He said, “We have to pray for the nation of Russia because I’m seeing a great war coming against them.
Their leader will face a greater opposition and the opposition will be so much that it may squeeze him and that will turn the nation into another thing.”
The very next day Russia was hit by what was said to be a terrorist attack when an explosion hit a trolleybus during the Monday morning rush hour in the city of Volgograd.
Could this be the beginning of what T.B. Joshua was speaking of? Two days after the SCOAN’s prayers, the rebel leader Riek Machar agreed to a cease fire saying he will enter peace talks, but will that encourage Russia’s president Vladimir Putin to acknowledge T.B.
The prophet then instructed his congregation to pray for cease fire and reconciliation.
After the prayer, T.B. Joshua started to prophesy about the coming year of 2014.
He said that “Many giant nations will become small nations and many small nations will become giant nations.” In particular he mentioned that the country Russia was to face trouble soon.
He said, “We have to pray for the nation of Russia because I’m seeing a great war coming against them.
Their leader will face a greater opposition and the opposition will be so much that it may squeeze him and that will turn the nation into another thing.”
The very next day Russia was hit by what was said to be a terrorist attack when an explosion hit a trolleybus during the Monday morning rush hour in the city of Volgograd.
Could this be the beginning of what T.B. Joshua was speaking of? Two days after the SCOAN’s prayers, the rebel leader Riek Machar agreed to a cease fire saying he will enter peace talks, but will that encourage Russia’s president Vladimir Putin to acknowledge T.B.
Marriage makes you FAT - Study
Tying the knot might be the happiest day of your life - but new research released today has revealed marriage makes you fat.According to a report by Dailymail..
Sinking into wedded bliss causes couples to put on an average of 4lbs a year after wedlock, as the comfort of a stable relationship leads many to abandon diets.According to a poll of 1,000 people, this results in many couples being more than a stone heavier less than four years after their wedding day.
The main reason for piling on the pound is the amount of time they spend staying in and snacking together in front of the TV.
Settled couples also feel under less pressure to look good because they are no longer seeking a partner.
Childbirth is another factor - with women in particular blaming this for weight gain.
According to the research, 72 per cent of those polled felt under more pressure to stay slim when they were single because they were still looking for a partner.On the other hand, 82 per cent of couples said they put on weight after marrying or settling in a stable relationship.
And 54 per cent of couples admitted that they put weight on together.Women, in particular, felt under less pressure to stay slim if their husband or boyfriend was putting on weight at the same time.
Sinking into wedded bliss causes couples to put on an average of 4lbs a year after wedlock, as the comfort of a stable relationship leads many to abandon diets.According to a poll of 1,000 people, this results in many couples being more than a stone heavier less than four years after their wedding day.
The main reason for piling on the pound is the amount of time they spend staying in and snacking together in front of the TV.
Settled couples also feel under less pressure to look good because they are no longer seeking a partner.
Childbirth is another factor - with women in particular blaming this for weight gain.
According to the research, 72 per cent of those polled felt under more pressure to stay slim when they were single because they were still looking for a partner.On the other hand, 82 per cent of couples said they put on weight after marrying or settling in a stable relationship.
And 54 per cent of couples admitted that they put weight on together.Women, in particular, felt under less pressure to stay slim if their husband or boyfriend was putting on weight at the same time.
Jailed Ibori sacks Daily Independent newspaper management from prison
Jailed former Delta State governor, James Ibori, has ordered the management of his newspaper, Independent Newspapers Limited, INL, to proceed on compulsory leave with immediate effect.
The order from Mr. Ibori, who is currently serving his jail term in a London prison, was handed top editorial and senior management and operations staff of the embattled newspaper by the Chairman of its Board of Directors, Lawan Gambo, during an emergency management meeting on Saturday, December 18.
Mr. Gambo, who presided over the brief meeting, held at the Corporate headquarters of the newspaper in the Ogba area of Lagos reportedly told some top editors and management to go home till January 31, PREMIUM TIMES learnt.
The board chair also indicated that only those of them relevant to the future of the company would be recalled. Those not recalled, he said, would be disengaged and communicated.
Those affected in the purge are Managing Editor, Akpandem James; General Editor, Daily, Ikechukwu Amaechi; General Editor, Online, Oguwike Nwachukwu; General Editor, Features, Emeka Duru, and former Saturday Editor, Olumide Iyanda
Saturday Editor, Charles, Okogene; Daily Editor, Rotimi Durojaiye; and Sunday Editor, Habib Aruna, who were also suspended, were reportedly recalled to continue to produce the paper while replacements are sought for them.
Also affected is the head of Accounts department, Eugene Onyeji, and other top managers in the Administration, Advertising and Operations Sections.
Under the new order, Ted Iwere, the former Managing Editor/Chief Executive Officer, who left in 2009 in controversial circumstances, was named interim coordinator, and is overseeing the reorganization of the media house.
Mr. Iwere, a close relative of Mr. Ibori, has always been in and out of the management of the organization right from inception in 2000.
The management of the company was for years mired in serious politics of entrenched interests among top editors, which affected the smooth running of the business.
Matters got to a head recently when 10 management staff petitioned the board accusing Mr. James, the managing editor, of alleged mismanagement and high-handedness.
The opposition to Mr. James was led by former editor, Mr. Ikechukwu, who has had a long running battle with the managing editor over his handling of the affairs of the company.
Insiders said Mr. Ikechukwu rallied other management staff against Mr. James after the managing editor got approval from the board to drop the title editors and appoint them General Editors.
The management of the company then became polarised along those in support of Mr. James and those rooting for Mr. Ikechukwu.
The management crisis soon resulted in the newsroom being factionalized, sharply along divided loyalty lines among the top editors, a situation that left the board of the company confused.
The board, PREMIUM TIMES learnt, briefed Mr. Ibori on the situation at the company. The former governor responded by asking the board to fire the feuding management staff and editors.
Since Mr. Ibori’s exit from government, and his later travails in the hands of the UK Metropolitan Police over money laundering charges, which resulted in his imprisonment, Daily Independent has been struggling.
Apart from the massive resignation of workers to other media houses, the company is having difficulties meeting its obligations, particularly as they concerned salary payments and other entitlements.
When contacted, Mr. James, the ousted managing editor, and Mr. Iwere, the interim coordinator of the company, said in separate interviews that they were not willing to discuss the situation in the company on the pages of newspapers.
The order from Mr. Ibori, who is currently serving his jail term in a London prison, was handed top editorial and senior management and operations staff of the embattled newspaper by the Chairman of its Board of Directors, Lawan Gambo, during an emergency management meeting on Saturday, December 18.
Mr. Gambo, who presided over the brief meeting, held at the Corporate headquarters of the newspaper in the Ogba area of Lagos reportedly told some top editors and management to go home till January 31, PREMIUM TIMES learnt.
The board chair also indicated that only those of them relevant to the future of the company would be recalled. Those not recalled, he said, would be disengaged and communicated.
Those affected in the purge are Managing Editor, Akpandem James; General Editor, Daily, Ikechukwu Amaechi; General Editor, Online, Oguwike Nwachukwu; General Editor, Features, Emeka Duru, and former Saturday Editor, Olumide Iyanda
Saturday Editor, Charles, Okogene; Daily Editor, Rotimi Durojaiye; and Sunday Editor, Habib Aruna, who were also suspended, were reportedly recalled to continue to produce the paper while replacements are sought for them.
Also affected is the head of Accounts department, Eugene Onyeji, and other top managers in the Administration, Advertising and Operations Sections.
Under the new order, Ted Iwere, the former Managing Editor/Chief Executive Officer, who left in 2009 in controversial circumstances, was named interim coordinator, and is overseeing the reorganization of the media house.
Mr. Iwere, a close relative of Mr. Ibori, has always been in and out of the management of the organization right from inception in 2000.
The management of the company was for years mired in serious politics of entrenched interests among top editors, which affected the smooth running of the business.
Matters got to a head recently when 10 management staff petitioned the board accusing Mr. James, the managing editor, of alleged mismanagement and high-handedness.
The opposition to Mr. James was led by former editor, Mr. Ikechukwu, who has had a long running battle with the managing editor over his handling of the affairs of the company.
Insiders said Mr. Ikechukwu rallied other management staff against Mr. James after the managing editor got approval from the board to drop the title editors and appoint them General Editors.
The management of the company then became polarised along those in support of Mr. James and those rooting for Mr. Ikechukwu.
The management crisis soon resulted in the newsroom being factionalized, sharply along divided loyalty lines among the top editors, a situation that left the board of the company confused.
The board, PREMIUM TIMES learnt, briefed Mr. Ibori on the situation at the company. The former governor responded by asking the board to fire the feuding management staff and editors.
Since Mr. Ibori’s exit from government, and his later travails in the hands of the UK Metropolitan Police over money laundering charges, which resulted in his imprisonment, Daily Independent has been struggling.
Apart from the massive resignation of workers to other media houses, the company is having difficulties meeting its obligations, particularly as they concerned salary payments and other entitlements.
When contacted, Mr. James, the ousted managing editor, and Mr. Iwere, the interim coordinator of the company, said in separate interviews that they were not willing to discuss the situation in the company on the pages of newspapers.
Who is Nigeria's Best Dressed male celebrity of 2013?
Who is your best dressed male celebrity of 2013? Above we have Julius Agwu, D'banj, Alex Ekubo, Uti Nwachukwu, and Chidi Mokeme. After the cut you will find Ohimai Atafo, Banky W, Ice Prince, Chinedu Ikedieze and IK Ogbonna. If your best dressed is not listed, just mention their name/s. Continue..
OWho is your best dressed male celebrity of 2013? Above we have Julius Agwu, D'banj, Alex Ekubo, Uti Nwachukwu, and Chidi Mokeme. After the cut you will find Ohimai Atafo, Banky W, Ice Prince, Chinedu Ikedieze and IK Ogbonna. If your best dressed is not listed, just mention their name/s. Continue..
Ohimai Atafo, Banky W, Ice Prince, Chinedu Ikedieze and IK Ogbonnahimai Atafo, Banky W, Ice Pri
OWho is your best dressed male celebrity of 2013? Above we have Julius Agwu, D'banj, Alex Ekubo, Uti Nwachukwu, and Chidi Mokeme. After the cut you will find Ohimai Atafo, Banky W, Ice Prince, Chinedu Ikedieze and IK Ogbonna. If your best dressed is not listed, just mention their name/s. Continue..
Ohimai Atafo, Banky W, Ice Prince, Chinedu Ikedieze and IK Ogbonnahimai Atafo, Banky W, Ice Pri
Who is Nigeria's Best Dressed female celebrity of 2013?
In 2013, Nigerian female celebrities took fashion to the next level. These women stood out everytime they stepped on the red carpet. But one person stood out the most. Who do you think it was? Above we have Tiwa Savage, Genevieve Nnaji, Agbani Darego, Toke Ma dressed female celebrity of 2013? Please share your thoughts...Continue...
Karen Igho, T, Osas Ighodalo, Yvonne 'Vixen' Ekwere and Eku Edewor
In 2013, Nigerian female celebrities took fashion to the next level. These women stood out everytime they stepped on the red carpet. But one person stood out the most. Who do you think it was? Above we have Tiwa Savage, Genevieve Nnaji, Agbani Darego, Toke Makinwa, and Rita Dominic. After the cut you will find Karen Igho, Toolz, Osas Ighodalo, Yvonne 'Vixen' Ekwere and Eku Edewor.
Who is your best dressed female celebrity of 2013? Please share your thoughts...Continue...
Karen Igho, Toolz, Osas Ighodalo, Yvonne 'Vixen' Ekwere and Eku Edewor
Karen Igho, T, Osas Ighodalo, Yvonne 'Vixen' Ekwere and Eku Edewor
In 2013, Nigerian female celebrities took fashion to the next level. These women stood out everytime they stepped on the red carpet. But one person stood out the most. Who do you think it was? Above we have Tiwa Savage, Genevieve Nnaji, Agbani Darego, Toke Makinwa, and Rita Dominic. After the cut you will find Karen Igho, Toolz, Osas Ighodalo, Yvonne 'Vixen' Ekwere and Eku Edewor.
Who is your best dressed female celebrity of 2013? Please share your thoughts...Continue...
Karen Igho, Toolz, Osas Ighodalo, Yvonne 'Vixen' Ekwere and Eku Edewor
BREAKING NEWS UPDATE: Gov. Oshiomole Badly Injured, Rushed To Secret London Hospital. na wa o
BREAKING NEWS UPDATE: Gov. Oshiomole Badly Injured, Rushed To Secret London Hospital
Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State, is currently battling for survival after a horrible auto crash which his aides noted that is not serious.
Some sources within Government House claim that the governor was flown to London to get treatment in an undisclosed hospital.
According to the reliable sources, contrary to the facts stated by his media aide, Kassim Afegbua, that all was well with the governor; in reality he sustained serious injuries on his head as well as pains in his heart.
It has been gathered that Mr. Oshiomhole was first attended to in the government house by his doctor of physiotherapist and medical doctor, but he never responded well to immediate treatment, hence he was promptly flown out in secret.
Journalists have been making frantic effort to get the true story after it was broken exclusively yesterday by a London based media, Elombah.com, but they have made no headway.
A source who spoke to the Paradigm correspondents queried why the government is scared of showing the world the pictures of the car which carried the governor on that fateful day if the car was not badly hit.
When The Paradigm contacted another official source within the government house, it said the governor was hurriedly flown to the United State in a chartered air ambulance. However, the source preferred to remain anonymous.
Genevieve Nnaji finally moves into D'Banj's house in Lekki. suprised?
Yes it's true. You know that Dbanj love Genny very much and he didn't send her away before but she left on her own and when she pleaded with him to come back, he just have to forgive her. He has taken her back and she is very happy!"
Those are the words of a close source in D'banj's camp who confirmed the story that the two are back. Genevieve needed a man in her life and to end 2013 without one would have been sad.
Sources are alleging that the love birds are already talking marriage but the source told me that such may not be true. He said D'banj has already told her that their relationship should be free of pressure...
I think Genny should just be happy that at least she now has a man and allow things to take their due course in order not to drive D'banj away again, because most single successful guys do not like to be rushed. lol!
Whatever the case may be, I wish them a better 2014 in their love life.
Those are the words of a close source in D'banj's camp who confirmed the story that the two are back. Genevieve needed a man in her life and to end 2013 without one would have been sad.
Sources are alleging that the love birds are already talking marriage but the source told me that such may not be true. He said D'banj has already told her that their relationship should be free of pressure...
I think Genny should just be happy that at least she now has a man and allow things to take their due course in order not to drive D'banj away again, because most single successful guys do not like to be rushed. lol!
Whatever the case may be, I wish them a better 2014 in their love life.
Monday, December 30, 2013
Fuel scarcity looms as oil workers insist on strike
Fuel scarcity looms as the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, and Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, PENSASSAN, yesterday insisted on going on strike tomorrow to protest the proposed sale of the nation’s four refineries by the Federal Government next year.
Already, most petrol stations in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, remained shut to customers in anticipation of the strike.
The two unions had on December 17, 2013, threatened to go on nationwide strike from this week if the Federal Government did not withdraw its plan to privatise the refineries.
Vanguard observed that some filling stations were locked up, though they had fuel in stock, apparently hoping to cash in on the anticipated scarcity.
Even the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, mega station at Kubwa was not left out.
Our correspondent who went round the city reported that most of the filling stations such as the two Total filling stations and Oando at Kubwa were locked.
A manager of a filling station at Kubwa claimed that the station had not been supplied fuel in the last five days
A customer, Mr James Morris, who was apparently angry over the development, told Vanguard that he had been to over four stations at Kubwa without getting fuel to buy.
He said the filling stations were still not awake to the reality that the strike had been called off, believing that the stations had fuel but just refused to sell in anticipation that NUPENG could still go ahead with its threat.
At Karu, Vanguard observed long queues in the few fuel stations that opened as motorists rushed to fill their tanks, while other people rushed in with gallons to get fuel for their generators. Even black marketers too were on queue to stock up.
The black marketers were ready to reap from the intended scarcity as they were seen displaying fuel in gallons in some streets, particularly near the filling stations that shut down.
Already, most petrol stations in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, remained shut to customers in anticipation of the strike.
The two unions had on December 17, 2013, threatened to go on nationwide strike from this week if the Federal Government did not withdraw its plan to privatise the refineries.
Vanguard observed that some filling stations were locked up, though they had fuel in stock, apparently hoping to cash in on the anticipated scarcity.
Even the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, mega station at Kubwa was not left out.
Our correspondent who went round the city reported that most of the filling stations such as the two Total filling stations and Oando at Kubwa were locked.
A manager of a filling station at Kubwa claimed that the station had not been supplied fuel in the last five days
A customer, Mr James Morris, who was apparently angry over the development, told Vanguard that he had been to over four stations at Kubwa without getting fuel to buy.
He said the filling stations were still not awake to the reality that the strike had been called off, believing that the stations had fuel but just refused to sell in anticipation that NUPENG could still go ahead with its threat.
At Karu, Vanguard observed long queues in the few fuel stations that opened as motorists rushed to fill their tanks, while other people rushed in with gallons to get fuel for their generators. Even black marketers too were on queue to stock up.
The black marketers were ready to reap from the intended scarcity as they were seen displaying fuel in gallons in some streets, particularly near the filling stations that shut down.
Man kills 2 prostitutes, ships their bodies home and has sex with their corpses. Ladies plz bcareful
A 23-year-old university student in China will be executed after hanging two prostitutes and having sex with their corpses.
The student, whose surname is Lee, was studying design at Jilin University in Changchun and told police that he had been failing a lot of classes and called the prostitutes to help relieve the pressure.
He also told detectives that he used to have fantasies about having sex with dead bodies and decided one morning that he could no longer resist carrying it out.
On March 6 this year he hired a 20-year-old prostitute called Cai through the internet, according to iFeng.com.
Lee then hanged her and had her body shipped back to his house in Changping , where he had sex with the corpse.
It was then dismembered and the parts buried in Lee’s garden.
On March 23 he carried out the same macabre act on the body of another prostitute that he’d hanged and shipped home.
A forensic psychiatrist determined that Lee wasn’t insane and was criminally responsible for the crimes.
The Second Intermediate People’s Court found him guilty of intentional homicide and sentenced him to death.
It also ordered him to pay 80,000 yuan (£8,000) in compensation to the victims’ families.
Source: Mail online
The student, whose surname is Lee, was studying design at Jilin University in Changchun and told police that he had been failing a lot of classes and called the prostitutes to help relieve the pressure.
He also told detectives that he used to have fantasies about having sex with dead bodies and decided one morning that he could no longer resist carrying it out.
On March 6 this year he hired a 20-year-old prostitute called Cai through the internet, according to iFeng.com.
Lee then hanged her and had her body shipped back to his house in Changping , where he had sex with the corpse.
It was then dismembered and the parts buried in Lee’s garden.
On March 23 he carried out the same macabre act on the body of another prostitute that he’d hanged and shipped home.
A forensic psychiatrist determined that Lee wasn’t insane and was criminally responsible for the crimes.
The Second Intermediate People’s Court found him guilty of intentional homicide and sentenced him to death.
It also ordered him to pay 80,000 yuan (£8,000) in compensation to the victims’ families.
Source: Mail online
Top 5 richest entertainers in Nigeria and how they make it big
The Nigerian music industry has become one of the most lucrative ventures in the country, a far cry from how it was in the past. Musicians in the country now rake in the big bucks and make millions from performances and endorsements, compared to those in the 90s and early 2000s.
After the list of Nigerian billionaires, Ventures Africa has now compiled a list of the “5 Richest Contemporary Entertainers In Nigeria.” Tom Jackson looks at the five richest entertainers in Nigeria, in no respective order.
[1] 2face
Born Innocent Idibia, the former member of the band, Plantashun Boyz, is among the richest artists in the industry. With two platinum records already behind him, Tuface (2Face) is speculated to be worth about 550 million naira ($3.47 million). He has had endorsement deals from companies such as Guinness, which earned him 20 million naira ($125,000) and Airtel, which earned him 22 million naira ($139,000).
He was also rumoured to have collected 30 million naira ($189,000) from the producers of the Phat Girls movie. Tuface has invested heavily in real estate and stocks, and made bug money from it. He once said his goal was to recover all the wealth taken from Africa.
[2] D’banj
Apart from his music interests, D’banj has moved into other sectors. His interests include Koko Mansion, a TV reality show, Koko Lounge, an upscale hangout in Lagos and the UK, Koko Foundation, a charity, and Koko Mobile. There are also rumours that he is set to launch Koko Records. The bulk of his money comes from endorsements – his endorsement deal with Globacom telecommunications cost 70 million naira ($442,000).
He has a multi-million naira endorsement with energy drink Power Fist, a deal with the makers of the Virgin Colour soft drink and another huge deal with a popular jeweller. Another endorsement which runs into millions is with Chris Aire, with D’banj acting as the face of his watches.
He collects between 5 million naira ($31,500) and 7 million naira ($44,200) as performance fee for local gigs, and even bigger fees across the rest of Africa and in the US and the UK. Like his old boss, Don Jazzy, D’banj also bagged a recording deal with Kanye West’s G.O.O.D Music. D’banj once said, “I work hard so that money, awards, endorsements, bookings and kokolets chase me.”
[3] Don Jazzy
Real name Michael Enebeli, Don Jazzy, is the founder of now defunct Mo’Hits and now runs Mavin Records. He is one of the most sought after producers in Nigeria. As a child he was a member of Good Morning Kids, a group created by his father.
He is known for his business dexterity, building Mo’Hits from scratch to become one of the biggest entertainment empires in the country. He recently signed a recording deal with Kanye West – a move that not only boosted his reputation as an entertainer, but also his wealth.
[4] Psquare
Singing and dancing duo Peter and Paul Okoye won the KORA award for Best Africa Artiste in 2010, collecting a $1 million prize in the process. Shortly after, the duo got an endorsement deal with Globacom telecommunications worth about 240 million naira ($1.5 million) for four years. Their seven-city American tour in 2010 earned them a whopping $1m and have also built a house valued at 300 million naira ($1.9 million).
They own Rayfield Hotel, Jos, and two multi-million naira factories in the same city, where they built a multimillion naira bakery and sachet water companies for their parents. The bulk of their wealth comes from concerts, especially in Africa, where they charge about 2 million naira ($12,600) per show. They have sold over 14 million copies of their CDs since 2005.
[5] Banky W
Banky W has become one of the richest entertainers in the industry, making the bulk of his wealth from gigs, where he charges between 2.5 million naira ($15,800) and 3 million naira ($19,000) per show and performs three to four times each week.
A brand ambassador of Estisalat, one of Nigeria’s telecommunications giants, he also featured in Coca Cola-Nigeria’s World Cup theme song and Microsoft’s Anti-cyber Crime Initiative. An entrepreneur, Banky W has invested heavily in various businesses and also doubles as a philanthropist, founding the Mr. Capable Foundation, where he provides tuition fees for indigent and brilliant students. He is also the force behind EME music which has, arguably, the Nigeria’s fastest rising artiste (Wizkid) under the label.
After the list of Nigerian billionaires, Ventures Africa has now compiled a list of the “5 Richest Contemporary Entertainers In Nigeria.” Tom Jackson looks at the five richest entertainers in Nigeria, in no respective order.
[1] 2face
Born Innocent Idibia, the former member of the band, Plantashun Boyz, is among the richest artists in the industry. With two platinum records already behind him, Tuface (2Face) is speculated to be worth about 550 million naira ($3.47 million). He has had endorsement deals from companies such as Guinness, which earned him 20 million naira ($125,000) and Airtel, which earned him 22 million naira ($139,000).
He was also rumoured to have collected 30 million naira ($189,000) from the producers of the Phat Girls movie. Tuface has invested heavily in real estate and stocks, and made bug money from it. He once said his goal was to recover all the wealth taken from Africa.
[2] D’banj
Apart from his music interests, D’banj has moved into other sectors. His interests include Koko Mansion, a TV reality show, Koko Lounge, an upscale hangout in Lagos and the UK, Koko Foundation, a charity, and Koko Mobile. There are also rumours that he is set to launch Koko Records. The bulk of his money comes from endorsements – his endorsement deal with Globacom telecommunications cost 70 million naira ($442,000).
He has a multi-million naira endorsement with energy drink Power Fist, a deal with the makers of the Virgin Colour soft drink and another huge deal with a popular jeweller. Another endorsement which runs into millions is with Chris Aire, with D’banj acting as the face of his watches.
He collects between 5 million naira ($31,500) and 7 million naira ($44,200) as performance fee for local gigs, and even bigger fees across the rest of Africa and in the US and the UK. Like his old boss, Don Jazzy, D’banj also bagged a recording deal with Kanye West’s G.O.O.D Music. D’banj once said, “I work hard so that money, awards, endorsements, bookings and kokolets chase me.”
[3] Don Jazzy
Real name Michael Enebeli, Don Jazzy, is the founder of now defunct Mo’Hits and now runs Mavin Records. He is one of the most sought after producers in Nigeria. As a child he was a member of Good Morning Kids, a group created by his father.
He is known for his business dexterity, building Mo’Hits from scratch to become one of the biggest entertainment empires in the country. He recently signed a recording deal with Kanye West – a move that not only boosted his reputation as an entertainer, but also his wealth.
[4] Psquare
Singing and dancing duo Peter and Paul Okoye won the KORA award for Best Africa Artiste in 2010, collecting a $1 million prize in the process. Shortly after, the duo got an endorsement deal with Globacom telecommunications worth about 240 million naira ($1.5 million) for four years. Their seven-city American tour in 2010 earned them a whopping $1m and have also built a house valued at 300 million naira ($1.9 million).
They own Rayfield Hotel, Jos, and two multi-million naira factories in the same city, where they built a multimillion naira bakery and sachet water companies for their parents. The bulk of their wealth comes from concerts, especially in Africa, where they charge about 2 million naira ($12,600) per show. They have sold over 14 million copies of their CDs since 2005.
[5] Banky W
Banky W has become one of the richest entertainers in the industry, making the bulk of his wealth from gigs, where he charges between 2.5 million naira ($15,800) and 3 million naira ($19,000) per show and performs three to four times each week.
A brand ambassador of Estisalat, one of Nigeria’s telecommunications giants, he also featured in Coca Cola-Nigeria’s World Cup theme song and Microsoft’s Anti-cyber Crime Initiative. An entrepreneur, Banky W has invested heavily in various businesses and also doubles as a philanthropist, founding the Mr. Capable Foundation, where he provides tuition fees for indigent and brilliant students. He is also the force behind EME music which has, arguably, the Nigeria’s fastest rising artiste (Wizkid) under the label.
Scientists discover wonder drug to block HIV/AIDS
Research led by scientists at the Gladstone Institutes, San Fransisco, United States has identified the precise chain of molecular events in the human body that drives the death of most of the immune system’s CD4 T cells as an HIV infection leads to AIDS. Further, they have identified an existing anti-inflammatory drug that in laboratory tests blocks the death of these cells — and now are planning a Phase 2 clinical trial to determine if this drug or a similar drug can prevent HIV-infected people from developing AIDS and related conditions.
Two separate journal articles, published simultaneously in Nature and Science, detail the research from the laboratory of Warner C. Greene, MD, PhD, who directs virology and immunology research at Gladstone, an independent biomedical-research non-profit. His laboratory’s science paper reveals how, during an HIV infection, a protein known as IFI16 senses fragments of HIV DNA in abortively infected immune cells. This triggers the activation of the human enzyme caspase-1 and leads to pyroptosis, a fiery and highly inflammatory form of cell death. As revealed in the Nature paper, this repetitive cycle of abortive infection,
cell death, inflammation and recruitment of additional CD4 T cells to the infection “hot zone” ultimately destroys the immune system and causes AIDS. The Nature paper further describes laboratory tests in which an existing anti-inflammatory inhibits caspase-1, thereby preventing pyroptosis and breaking the cycle of cell death and inflammation.
“Gladstone has made two important discoveries, first by showing how the body’s own immune response to HIV causes CD4 T cell death via a pathway triggering inflammation, and secondly by identifying the host DNA sensor that detects the viral DNA and triggers this death response,” said Robert F. Siliciano, MD, PhD, a professor of Medicine at Johns Hopkins University, and a Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator. “This one-two punch of discoveries underscores the critical value of basic science — by uncovering the major cause of CD4 T cell depletion in AIDS. Dr Greene’s laboratory has been able to identify a potential new therapy for blocking the disease’s progression and improving on current antiretroviral medications.”
The research comes at a critical time, as so-called AIDS fatigue leads many to think that HIV/AIDS is solved. In fact, HIV infected an additional 2.3 million people last year, according to UNAIDS estimates, bringing the global total of HIV-positive people to 35.3 million. Antiretroviral medications (ARVs) can prevent HIV infections from causing AIDS, but they do not cure AIDS. Further, those taking ARVs risk both a latent version of the virus, which can rebound if ARVs are discontinued, and the premature onset of diseases that normally occur in aging populations. Plus, some 16 million people who carry the virus do not have access to ARVs, according to World Health Organization estimates.
Seeking solutions for all these challenges, the new Gladstone discovery builds on earlier research from Dr. Greene’s lab, published in Cell in 2010. This study showed how HIV attempts, but fails, to productively infect most of the immune system’s CD4 T cells. In an attempt to protect the body from the spreading virus, these immune cells then commit “cellular suicide,” leading to the collapse of the immune system — and AIDS.
After that research, the Gladstone scientists began to look for ways to prevent this process by studying exactly how the suicidal response is initiated. Working in the laboratory with human spleen and tonsil tissue, as well as lymph-node tissue from HIV-infected patients, the researchers found that these so-called abortive infections leave fragments of HIV’s DNA in the immune cells. As described in Nature, pyroptosis ensues as immune cells rupture and release inflammatory signals that attract still more cells to repeat the death cycle.
Two separate journal articles, published simultaneously in Nature and Science, detail the research from the laboratory of Warner C. Greene, MD, PhD, who directs virology and immunology research at Gladstone, an independent biomedical-research non-profit. His laboratory’s science paper reveals how, during an HIV infection, a protein known as IFI16 senses fragments of HIV DNA in abortively infected immune cells. This triggers the activation of the human enzyme caspase-1 and leads to pyroptosis, a fiery and highly inflammatory form of cell death. As revealed in the Nature paper, this repetitive cycle of abortive infection,
cell death, inflammation and recruitment of additional CD4 T cells to the infection “hot zone” ultimately destroys the immune system and causes AIDS. The Nature paper further describes laboratory tests in which an existing anti-inflammatory inhibits caspase-1, thereby preventing pyroptosis and breaking the cycle of cell death and inflammation.
“Gladstone has made two important discoveries, first by showing how the body’s own immune response to HIV causes CD4 T cell death via a pathway triggering inflammation, and secondly by identifying the host DNA sensor that detects the viral DNA and triggers this death response,” said Robert F. Siliciano, MD, PhD, a professor of Medicine at Johns Hopkins University, and a Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator. “This one-two punch of discoveries underscores the critical value of basic science — by uncovering the major cause of CD4 T cell depletion in AIDS. Dr Greene’s laboratory has been able to identify a potential new therapy for blocking the disease’s progression and improving on current antiretroviral medications.”
The research comes at a critical time, as so-called AIDS fatigue leads many to think that HIV/AIDS is solved. In fact, HIV infected an additional 2.3 million people last year, according to UNAIDS estimates, bringing the global total of HIV-positive people to 35.3 million. Antiretroviral medications (ARVs) can prevent HIV infections from causing AIDS, but they do not cure AIDS. Further, those taking ARVs risk both a latent version of the virus, which can rebound if ARVs are discontinued, and the premature onset of diseases that normally occur in aging populations. Plus, some 16 million people who carry the virus do not have access to ARVs, according to World Health Organization estimates.
Seeking solutions for all these challenges, the new Gladstone discovery builds on earlier research from Dr. Greene’s lab, published in Cell in 2010. This study showed how HIV attempts, but fails, to productively infect most of the immune system’s CD4 T cells. In an attempt to protect the body from the spreading virus, these immune cells then commit “cellular suicide,” leading to the collapse of the immune system — and AIDS.
After that research, the Gladstone scientists began to look for ways to prevent this process by studying exactly how the suicidal response is initiated. Working in the laboratory with human spleen and tonsil tissue, as well as lymph-node tissue from HIV-infected patients, the researchers found that these so-called abortive infections leave fragments of HIV’s DNA in the immune cells. As described in Nature, pyroptosis ensues as immune cells rupture and release inflammatory signals that attract still more cells to repeat the death cycle.
"Eagles will win 2014 World Cup If..." – Guru Maharaj Ji predicts victory, gives condition
The Spiritual Leader of One Love Family, Satguru Maharaj Ji, has predicted victory for Super Eagles at the forthcoming 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
He made this known to Daily Independent at his Spiritual Village, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, while speaking on plans to mark his spiritual birthday on January 1, 2014.
Maharaj Ji was determined speaking about it:
"I have said it and nothing will change it. If the Super Eagles handler, Stephen Keshi, shows more love to Maharaj Ji, the true name of the Almighty. He will lead the team to victory that will shock the world.
"I want him and top shots of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to visit Maharaj Ji Village and let us have a discussion. Let them come and put Maharaj Ji’s power to test. I cannot be here and Nigeria won’t be able to conquer the world.
"I told them before that Eagles will win the Nation’s Cup and so it was. The powers of Chukwujekwukwu will touch the players again and they will have strength to run faster as children of the light than any other team at the tournament. Nigerians should come and avail themselves of the opportunity of the power now.
“Keshi should humble himself more. I foresee the cup coming to Nigeria in 2014. Nigerians should stop doubting because the Living Perfect Master is talking. I think by now government in its own wisdom would have shown appreciation to me for the victory of Eagles at the last Nation’s Cup. They should know that it is only by encouraging me that they receive more."
The Spiritual Leader proceeded:
"The players, particularly the goal keeper, should avoid wearing blue jersey which was one of the things that caused initial problems for the team during the Nation’s Cup before an NFF top shot got across to me to intercede. Blue is the colour of mermaid. That is not ideal for any progressive development.
"I have said it loud and clear that the cup is within reach and definitely it will come to Nigeria if the sports administrators and the coaches take the advantage. I cautioned Samson Siasia, the former Eagles’ handler, but he retorted saying ‘is Satguru God’? That affected him and he was booted out.
"However, not only the Super Eagles, tell other national teams to come and receive the power to excel and it shall be well with them at any tournament,”he assured.
He made this known to Daily Independent at his Spiritual Village, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, while speaking on plans to mark his spiritual birthday on January 1, 2014.
Maharaj Ji was determined speaking about it:
"I have said it and nothing will change it. If the Super Eagles handler, Stephen Keshi, shows more love to Maharaj Ji, the true name of the Almighty. He will lead the team to victory that will shock the world.
"I want him and top shots of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to visit Maharaj Ji Village and let us have a discussion. Let them come and put Maharaj Ji’s power to test. I cannot be here and Nigeria won’t be able to conquer the world.
"I told them before that Eagles will win the Nation’s Cup and so it was. The powers of Chukwujekwukwu will touch the players again and they will have strength to run faster as children of the light than any other team at the tournament. Nigerians should come and avail themselves of the opportunity of the power now.
“Keshi should humble himself more. I foresee the cup coming to Nigeria in 2014. Nigerians should stop doubting because the Living Perfect Master is talking. I think by now government in its own wisdom would have shown appreciation to me for the victory of Eagles at the last Nation’s Cup. They should know that it is only by encouraging me that they receive more."
The Spiritual Leader proceeded:
"The players, particularly the goal keeper, should avoid wearing blue jersey which was one of the things that caused initial problems for the team during the Nation’s Cup before an NFF top shot got across to me to intercede. Blue is the colour of mermaid. That is not ideal for any progressive development.
"I have said it loud and clear that the cup is within reach and definitely it will come to Nigeria if the sports administrators and the coaches take the advantage. I cautioned Samson Siasia, the former Eagles’ handler, but he retorted saying ‘is Satguru God’? That affected him and he was booted out.
"However, not only the Super Eagles, tell other national teams to come and receive the power to excel and it shall be well with them at any tournament,”he assured.
Man Rapes, Impregnates Daughter, Blames Witches
The Nigerian Police in Lagos State said it has arrested a 36-year old man who allegedly raped and impregnated his 14-year old daughter.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Ngozi Braide, made this known when she briefed newsmen in Ikeja on Friday.
Braide said the girl had been pregnant for the past two months and that the man claimed to be bewitched.
She added that the mother of the girl divorced her father seven years ago.
Braide added that the matter was reported at Meiran Police Station of the Area ‘M’ Police Command.
The victim told newsmen that her father brought a native doctor who convinced her that sex was part of the treatment to cure her undisclosed sickness before she was raped.
“My father gives me native soap and sponge probably for ritual bath always.
He once entered the bathroom with me and had sex with me forcefully.
He took me to bed forcefully several times in his room and when I refused, he threatened to kill me with a knife.
Since then, he had been making love to me under the guise that I will be cured”, she said.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Ngozi Braide, made this known when she briefed newsmen in Ikeja on Friday.
Braide said the girl had been pregnant for the past two months and that the man claimed to be bewitched.
She added that the mother of the girl divorced her father seven years ago.
Braide added that the matter was reported at Meiran Police Station of the Area ‘M’ Police Command.
The victim told newsmen that her father brought a native doctor who convinced her that sex was part of the treatment to cure her undisclosed sickness before she was raped.
“My father gives me native soap and sponge probably for ritual bath always.
He once entered the bathroom with me and had sex with me forcefully.
He took me to bed forcefully several times in his room and when I refused, he threatened to kill me with a knife.
Since then, he had been making love to me under the guise that I will be cured”, she said.
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Nigeria will split' - Ibibio Chief Priest has a message for Jonathan
Chief priest of Ibibio Youth Council (IYC), in Ikot Abasi, Ikot Abasi local government area of Akwa Ibom State, Chief Ekemini Udonna, has said the problems of the country are "basically spiritual".
He made this known while exchanging views with newsmen yesterday in Eket.
According to him, one of the ways to avert the break-up of Nigeria was to institutionalise the deity located in the Atlantic Ocean.
“The removal of the capital of Nigeria from Calabar in Cross River State from the national deity has mysterious consequence on the country,” he said.
He also called on the federal government to implement a West Africa Court of Appeal judgment of 1944 for peace to reign in Nigeria.
He said the non-implementation of the Appeal Court judgement has led to threat to world peace and disintegration of the West African region.
“Without the implementation of court judgement, Nigeria should expect war, anarchy or possible disintegration before or after 2015.
“I have a message for Mr President, If he accepts, I know what to do but if he does not, the country will split and there will be a serious problem in Nigeria,’’ he said.
He made this known while exchanging views with newsmen yesterday in Eket.
According to him, one of the ways to avert the break-up of Nigeria was to institutionalise the deity located in the Atlantic Ocean.
“The removal of the capital of Nigeria from Calabar in Cross River State from the national deity has mysterious consequence on the country,” he said.
He also called on the federal government to implement a West Africa Court of Appeal judgment of 1944 for peace to reign in Nigeria.
He said the non-implementation of the Appeal Court judgement has led to threat to world peace and disintegration of the West African region.
“Without the implementation of court judgement, Nigeria should expect war, anarchy or possible disintegration before or after 2015.
“I have a message for Mr President, If he accepts, I know what to do but if he does not, the country will split and there will be a serious problem in Nigeria,’’ he said.
How oral séx destroys your body
percent will have visible symptoms. What all this means is that oral sex puts you at risk of picking up a cancer-causing virus, not just the host of venereal diseases such as HIV.
The most obvious HPV-related oral-cancer risk factors have to do with the kind of sex you have, how often you have it and the number of partners you’ve tangled sheets with. According to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine, people who have had six or more sex partners are more than twice as likely to develop oral cancer. But those who’ve had six or more oral sex partners increase their chances by a whopping 340 per cent. As such, says Masters, HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer should be considered a sexually communicable disease. “From cases I see, I get the sense that many younger people don’t think oral sex counts as sex,” he says. “But oral sex has risks too.”
The most obvious HPV-related oral-cancer risk factors have to do with the kind of sex you have, how often you have it and the number of partners you’ve tangled sheets with. According to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine, people who have had six or more sex partners are more than twice as likely to develop oral cancer. But those who’ve had six or more oral sex partners increase their chances by a whopping 340 per cent. As such, says Masters, HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer should be considered a sexually communicable disease. “From cases I see, I get the sense that many younger people don’t think oral sex counts as sex,” he says. “But oral sex has risks too.”
Comedienne Princess Dammy & husband split after only 7 months of marriage
After just seven months of marriage, one of Nigeria's best comediennes Princess Dammy, real name Damilola Adekoya, has separated from her husband, movie producer/director Adeshola Jeremiah. The NET reports that the couple started having problems just two weeks after their wedding in May 2013 and officially split a few months ago after a series of efforts to mend the broken marriage failed.
Confirming the split, Princess Dammy told Thenet,ng
"Yes my marriage has ended due to irreoncilable differences. We have been having issues since the wedding but we still remained together hoping that we would be able to work it out. But apparently, we couldn’t work it out, hence the reason for our separation. We actually ended it several months ago, but we didn’t want to make it public. I’m sure God knows best’
Eya, sad to hear this...
Confirming the split, Princess Dammy told Thenet,ng
"Yes my marriage has ended due to irreoncilable differences. We have been having issues since the wedding but we still remained together hoping that we would be able to work it out. But apparently, we couldn’t work it out, hence the reason for our separation. We actually ended it several months ago, but we didn’t want to make it public. I’m sure God knows best’
Eya, sad to hear this...
The NET list of the 12 biggest artist of 2013
According to a list put together by Nigeria Entertainment Today, these are the 12 biggest artists of 2013. See below and see if you agree with them...
2013 was a very big year for Nigerian music and quite a number of artistes lived up to expectation. We’re talking sold-out shows, monster singles, European tours and endorsement deals. NET presents the 12 biggest artistes of 2013.
1. Wizkid
2. Davido
3. P-Square
4. Tiwa Savage
5. D'banj
6. Iyanya
7. Olamide
8. Flavour
9. Kcee
10. Femi Kuti
11. Ice Prince
12. 2face Idibia
What do you think of this list? Any name missing for you?
Linda Ikeji
2013 was a very big year for Nigerian music and quite a number of artistes lived up to expectation. We’re talking sold-out shows, monster singles, European tours and endorsement deals. NET presents the 12 biggest artistes of 2013.
1. Wizkid
2. Davido
3. P-Square
4. Tiwa Savage
5. D'banj
6. Iyanya
7. Olamide
8. Flavour
9. Kcee
10. Femi Kuti
11. Ice Prince
12. 2face Idibia
What do you think of this list? Any name missing for you?
Linda Ikeji
Music producer ID Cabasa ordained a pastor
Top music producer, Olumide Aka, popularly known as ID Cabasa, the guy who produced 9ice's mega hit debut album, is reportedly now a pastor. He was ordained today at Global Impact Church, Babs Animashaun, Surulere. Congrats to him...
Burna Boy Exists the Headies 2013 Angrily for losing out to Sean Tizzlein the “Next Rated” category
Music star Burna Boy exited The Headies 2013 on Thursday night when rising Afro pop star Sean Tizzle was announced winner of the Next Rated category.
The category has been chosen to honour the most promising musician during the period of nomination. The award comes with a brand new ride.
Sean Tizzle picked the award and got the keys to a Hyundai Tucson SUV.
As soon as Sean Tizzle was announced as the winner, Burna Boy left the venue, telling photographers not to take his photos, na wa o.
The category has been chosen to honour the most promising musician during the period of nomination. The award comes with a brand new ride.
Sean Tizzle picked the award and got the keys to a Hyundai Tucson SUV.
As soon as Sean Tizzle was announced as the winner, Burna Boy left the venue, telling photographers not to take his photos, na wa o.
Actress Mercy Johnson Donates Materials To 5000 Widows In HerHusband’s Home Town In Uromi
On Monday Dec 23, 2013 top actress Mercy Johnson-Okojie donated various materials and food stuffs to 5000 widows in Uromi, her husband’s home town. According to sources, she made the entire widows and the people of Uromi very happy this Christmas.
The actress was able to achieve this through her Mercy Johnson Okojie’s Foundation, which is geared towards the improvement of less privileged people and women in the society. Each widow of over 5000 received a bag of rice, 6 yards of super print, a bag of salt, groundnut oil, tin tomatoes and maggi cubes.
She indeed has a heart of gold, more grease to her elbow
The actress was able to achieve this through her Mercy Johnson Okojie’s Foundation, which is geared towards the improvement of less privileged people and women in the society. Each widow of over 5000 received a bag of rice, 6 yards of super print, a bag of salt, groundnut oil, tin tomatoes and maggi cubes.
She indeed has a heart of gold, more grease to her elbow
Ladies Beware! I’m Not Ready For Marriage - Ada Ada Crooner, Flavour Speaks On Life, Career & More
Chinedu Okoli a.k.a Flavour Nabania who has made his name in the Nigerian music industry sat down for an interview with Vanguard Newspaper, enjoy the highlight from his chat:
What’s the secret of your success story in pursuing your musical career?
The secret of my success is originality. Right from day one, I knew that if I try to be original, the sky would be my limit. But I know it’s going to take some time before that dream would become a reality. This is because nothing good comes that easily.
I work so hard to sound so original in my music. Right from when I released my first album, there has been a tremendous improvement in my music. And this time around, I had enough funds to do better videos which has distinguished my style from other artistes. Africans as a whole love originality, even though some might pretend about it
If you are original in whatever you are doing today coupled with being down-to- earth, you will get to anywhere you want to.That has been the secret of my success. I began my career as a drummer for a local church in my home state, Enugu State.
What has actually kept you going till today ?
Having passion for what I’m doing. I have so much passion for music. I started singing at the age of 13. I went to the right source because I had some companies that gave me a scholarship as a way of encouraging me. They trained me in music. They believed in me becoming as a rising musician then.
The director always tell us that people used to regard musicians as irresponsible and wayward people. People who squander all their money on women and cars while trying to live a flamboyant lifestyle. If you are talented, you need to work hard to give back to the society. That has been my driving force. People now see me as a responsible person and an example to the young ones.
I have to keep my head low and stay humble and keep doing what I am doing well. So, the passion has kept me going. Initially, when I started, I didn’t care whether I had some money in my pocket or not. I was just doing it for the love of music. But I wanted to get somewhere.
Where do you draw your inspiration from ?
I draw my inspiration from people around me, especially things that happen around me I like when things go bad and when things go good because it doesn’t have to be good all the time.
So, all I do is to keep focus and balance the two situations that come my way. And sometimes friends around me inspire me even when my family were against my keeping too many friends, I still get close to them making them know that they are very important to me. To me, I think as a musician you should have a story to tell .Things around me inspire my kind of music .
Glo endorsed you recently. How do you feel about the endorsement ?
It’s something great, it’s not only Glo I still have a lot of awards both within and outside the shores of the country . Glo endorsement is a wonderful opportunity , it’s good to associate with big brands and it’s also good for big brands to recognize big artiste and not to just use the person to build up a platform.It’s something nice and I am enjoying the relationship, the tour , interviews and the photo shoot; I am enjoying everything.
Can you share some of the pains and gains of becoming a celebrity ?
Let me start with the pains because it’s the bigger part of the challenges we face as celebrities . The painful part of it is that we go through a lot and people don’t know and they don’t even care to know.
They just want to see you up there so what we go through as artistes every day is unimaginable. Even when you get to meet your fans , the way some of them will approach you is something else . Then the challenge of being on top of your game; But if you know what you are doing the pains will become a blessing and a watchword for you.
You have to take so many things away from you , you don’t live your normal life again though not everyone. But left for me, I am free spirit. I want to wake up and walk around the street buy something that I want.
Sometimes you will want to have fun alone but you won’t be able to do so because other people will want to associate with you; you don’t have to chase them away because they are coming because they love your music even the once with bad intention you have to show them love and accommodate them.
Meanwhile, achieving my dreams and getting to where I want today remains part of the gains . I am also, not relenting on efforts. My work just keeps going and I have so many things to do and also achieve .
What are you working on presently ?
Presently, I have been performing almost every weekend. People invite me to perform at different shows and I’ve been working everyday, there is no day that pass I don’t have something to do. I like surprises, and I also like to look at the market and know where I can make my impact. There are also different businesses I have been doing with some cooperate bodies .
We learnt you are coming up with a reality show. What is it all about ?
Yes, it’s not that much. I'm just planning to come out with something very soon. However, I need to put everything in place before I can talk about it.
How have you been able to compete with other top artistes in the industry ?
If you have your own style , you just need to stick to it; be very versatile and at the same time, original because every now and then, new artistes keep emerging from the blues. You need to maintain the tempo.
The hardest part of the job is not to come up with a hit , but to be there and keep giving them the hit till when you retire . The drive is to just keep on doing what you are doing well and going deep into it . And always source for ideas , look for different things , know your market and the people that are looking up to you. What they think about your work .
For me, I havemade a lot of findings outside the shores of Nigeria. So, that alone makes it difficult because you are not just looking at the crown but also, you are looking at Africa at large. From Africa, you can hit the international stage.
Doing collaboration with other artistes is what is in vogue in the industry. In your own case, what are the conditions and things do you look out for before accepting to do collaboration with fellow artistes ?
I look out for somebody I can work with, and not someone that just want me to bless his song so that it will just be my glory. There are few artistes in Nigeria who can really release some good stuffs . In every song, I’m collaborating with any artiste, I always try to bring in something new. I bring my creative ingenuity to bear in every song I’m featuring in.
What’s the secret of your success story in pursuing your musical career?
The secret of my success is originality. Right from day one, I knew that if I try to be original, the sky would be my limit. But I know it’s going to take some time before that dream would become a reality. This is because nothing good comes that easily.
I work so hard to sound so original in my music. Right from when I released my first album, there has been a tremendous improvement in my music. And this time around, I had enough funds to do better videos which has distinguished my style from other artistes. Africans as a whole love originality, even though some might pretend about it
If you are original in whatever you are doing today coupled with being down-to- earth, you will get to anywhere you want to.That has been the secret of my success. I began my career as a drummer for a local church in my home state, Enugu State.
What has actually kept you going till today ?
Having passion for what I’m doing. I have so much passion for music. I started singing at the age of 13. I went to the right source because I had some companies that gave me a scholarship as a way of encouraging me. They trained me in music. They believed in me becoming as a rising musician then.
The director always tell us that people used to regard musicians as irresponsible and wayward people. People who squander all their money on women and cars while trying to live a flamboyant lifestyle. If you are talented, you need to work hard to give back to the society. That has been my driving force. People now see me as a responsible person and an example to the young ones.
I have to keep my head low and stay humble and keep doing what I am doing well. So, the passion has kept me going. Initially, when I started, I didn’t care whether I had some money in my pocket or not. I was just doing it for the love of music. But I wanted to get somewhere.
Where do you draw your inspiration from ?
I draw my inspiration from people around me, especially things that happen around me I like when things go bad and when things go good because it doesn’t have to be good all the time.
So, all I do is to keep focus and balance the two situations that come my way. And sometimes friends around me inspire me even when my family were against my keeping too many friends, I still get close to them making them know that they are very important to me. To me, I think as a musician you should have a story to tell .Things around me inspire my kind of music .
Glo endorsed you recently. How do you feel about the endorsement ?
It’s something great, it’s not only Glo I still have a lot of awards both within and outside the shores of the country . Glo endorsement is a wonderful opportunity , it’s good to associate with big brands and it’s also good for big brands to recognize big artiste and not to just use the person to build up a platform.It’s something nice and I am enjoying the relationship, the tour , interviews and the photo shoot; I am enjoying everything.
Can you share some of the pains and gains of becoming a celebrity ?
Let me start with the pains because it’s the bigger part of the challenges we face as celebrities . The painful part of it is that we go through a lot and people don’t know and they don’t even care to know.
They just want to see you up there so what we go through as artistes every day is unimaginable. Even when you get to meet your fans , the way some of them will approach you is something else . Then the challenge of being on top of your game; But if you know what you are doing the pains will become a blessing and a watchword for you.
You have to take so many things away from you , you don’t live your normal life again though not everyone. But left for me, I am free spirit. I want to wake up and walk around the street buy something that I want.
Sometimes you will want to have fun alone but you won’t be able to do so because other people will want to associate with you; you don’t have to chase them away because they are coming because they love your music even the once with bad intention you have to show them love and accommodate them.
Meanwhile, achieving my dreams and getting to where I want today remains part of the gains . I am also, not relenting on efforts. My work just keeps going and I have so many things to do and also achieve .
What are you working on presently ?
Presently, I have been performing almost every weekend. People invite me to perform at different shows and I’ve been working everyday, there is no day that pass I don’t have something to do. I like surprises, and I also like to look at the market and know where I can make my impact. There are also different businesses I have been doing with some cooperate bodies .
We learnt you are coming up with a reality show. What is it all about ?
Yes, it’s not that much. I'm just planning to come out with something very soon. However, I need to put everything in place before I can talk about it.
How have you been able to compete with other top artistes in the industry ?
If you have your own style , you just need to stick to it; be very versatile and at the same time, original because every now and then, new artistes keep emerging from the blues. You need to maintain the tempo.
The hardest part of the job is not to come up with a hit , but to be there and keep giving them the hit till when you retire . The drive is to just keep on doing what you are doing well and going deep into it . And always source for ideas , look for different things , know your market and the people that are looking up to you. What they think about your work .
For me, I havemade a lot of findings outside the shores of Nigeria. So, that alone makes it difficult because you are not just looking at the crown but also, you are looking at Africa at large. From Africa, you can hit the international stage.
Doing collaboration with other artistes is what is in vogue in the industry. In your own case, what are the conditions and things do you look out for before accepting to do collaboration with fellow artistes ?
I look out for somebody I can work with, and not someone that just want me to bless his song so that it will just be my glory. There are few artistes in Nigeria who can really release some good stuffs . In every song, I’m collaborating with any artiste, I always try to bring in something new. I bring my creative ingenuity to bear in every song I’m featuring in.
Saturday, December 28, 2013
DISCLOSED: Why Timaya Is Afraid Of Oritse Femi
Oritse Femi who gained popularity after releasing his hit track ‘Mercies of Da Lord’ featuring Dagrin says Timaya still sees him as a threat.
He made this statement while interviewed by Vanguard Newspaper. According to him, even though they are friends, Timaya is always tries to compete with Femi.
Here is the extract from the interview:
"But talking about Timaya, he is a good friend and right from time, Timaya has always seen me as a competitor. You know sometimes, someone can be your friend and still feels you are the only problem he has. The last time that I called him that we should do a song together, he said we are going to do it but he kept postponing it because he sees me as a threat. He doesn’t want a situation whereby people will be comparing us. Timaya is a good artiste and he has his own energy and he keeps doing what he knows how to do best but to me, I don’t see him as a challenger. I can compete with any artiste in the world."
In your opinion, who is better: Timaya or Oritse Femi?
He made this statement while interviewed by Vanguard Newspaper. According to him, even though they are friends, Timaya is always tries to compete with Femi.
Here is the extract from the interview:
"But talking about Timaya, he is a good friend and right from time, Timaya has always seen me as a competitor. You know sometimes, someone can be your friend and still feels you are the only problem he has. The last time that I called him that we should do a song together, he said we are going to do it but he kept postponing it because he sees me as a threat. He doesn’t want a situation whereby people will be comparing us. Timaya is a good artiste and he has his own energy and he keeps doing what he knows how to do best but to me, I don’t see him as a challenger. I can compete with any artiste in the world."
In your opinion, who is better: Timaya or Oritse Femi?
Friday, December 27, 2013
Limpopo King, KCee Acquires A Lekki Mansion To End A Good Year
Reports reaching us confirms that Five Star Music star artiste and limpopo king, KCeehas capped off a blistering year by acquiring a duplex in Chevy view estate, off Chevron drive, Lekki.
It is comfirmed that properties in this estate for a duplex is valued betwen N55 - N70million, it is undoubtably a good year for the music star...From all of us at eGistonline, we congratulate KCee for this massive achievement and wishing him and his fam a wonderful christmas
It is comfirmed that properties in this estate for a duplex is valued betwen N55 - N70million, it is undoubtably a good year for the music star...From all of us at eGistonline, we congratulate KCee for this massive achievement and wishing him and his fam a wonderful christmas
Saturday, December 21, 2013
Don Jazzy Grateful To D’banj, Wande Coal For Flytime Entertainment Legend Award!
Don Jazzy received the Flytime Entertainment Legend Awards given to him during the just concluded Harp Rhythm Unplugged and while on the podium Don Jazzy expressed surprise that he was considered for the awards. “I did not even know that they give award to people at Rhythm Unplugged,” he said. Continue to read more (plus more pictures) after the break
Don Jazzy and his dad at the event
Accepting the award, Don Baba Jay as he is often referred to by friends and fans thanked D’banj, Wande Coal and the Mavins for the award because without them, he would not have had the award. Wyclef and Bovi, hosts of the comedy show, made sure there was no boring moment. Bovi showed the reason why he was considered an ace comedian by making sure people rolled on the floor with laughter.
A major highlight of the event was when the comedy merchant wanted to deceive the American into calling him his boss. Bovi told Wyclef that when you want to greet a Nigerian you say, “You be my oga patapata.” However, the American did not fall for the trick as he told the comedian that, “Are you trying to make me say you are my boss? No way!” The American further challenged the Nigerian comedian to a rap battle for his YouTube channel. According to the crowd’s chants and cheers, Bovi beat Wyclef hands down.
Don Jazzy and his dad at the event
Accepting the award, Don Baba Jay as he is often referred to by friends and fans thanked D’banj, Wande Coal and the Mavins for the award because without them, he would not have had the award. Wyclef and Bovi, hosts of the comedy show, made sure there was no boring moment. Bovi showed the reason why he was considered an ace comedian by making sure people rolled on the floor with laughter.
A major highlight of the event was when the comedy merchant wanted to deceive the American into calling him his boss. Bovi told Wyclef that when you want to greet a Nigerian you say, “You be my oga patapata.” However, the American did not fall for the trick as he told the comedian that, “Are you trying to make me say you are my boss? No way!” The American further challenged the Nigerian comedian to a rap battle for his YouTube channel. According to the crowd’s chants and cheers, Bovi beat Wyclef hands down.
I Am Not Engaged, I Bought Engagement Ring Myself – Nadia Buari
Nadia Buari wears what looks like an engagement ring; but I’m not engaged; I bought the ring myself, she says in reaction to media reports that she is engaged.
Since Nadia Buari and Nollywood ‘bad boy’ Jim Iyke developed a certain bond, the pair have been in the news for all the love reasons.
Although they have vehemently denied any love relationship brewing between them, the Nollywood actor recently took her on a five-city European tour for her 31st birthday.
The rumours that the two are in a relationship gained currency when it was reported that Jim might have popped the all important “Will you marry me,” question to Nadia with an engagement ring.
Reacting to the rumours in an interview with Myjoyonline.com, Nadia dispelled the rumour saying the media are always bent on making news out of nothing.
Stretching her beautiful, delicate fingers to show some rings, she said, “When you look at these rings, I think there are three of the same kind of ring so is this an engagement ring? I think you guys want to make a story out of nothing.”
Asked the source of the rings and if they were only for fashion, Nadia said, “Of course.”
‘The Diary of Imogen Brown’
Nadia Buari is set to premiere her first movie production, ‘The Diary of Imogen Brown’ on December 23, 2013 at the Conference Centre.
‘The Diary of Imogen Brown’, a true life story, tells the story of Imogen Brown, a successful business woman who had it all – an incredibly beautiful daughter, a great home, a diamond business empire and a handsome boyfriend.
Unknown to her, her envious boyfriend, Tyler Graham, who had been having an affair with two of Imogen’s closest friends, was only interested in her wealth.
After many failed attempts to persuade Imogen to marrying him so he could take over her company, he decides to walk out on their six years relationship. In trying to get over the pain of heartbreak, she meets Stanley Coleman who introduces her to all kinds of drugs and as a result becomes an addict.
The movie stars Jim Iyke, Charles Bruce, Soraya Mensah, Heba Khaled, Kevin Boateng, Prince Mingle, Beatrice Dadson and Nadia Buari.
Asked what inspired her to go into movie production, Nadia explained that the “passion, the zeal I have for it is what inspired me and for the fact I it’s something I studied.”
With young actors and actresses including Yvonne Nelson, Yvonne Okoro and herself venturing into movie production now, Nadia dispelled assertions that she is also releasing the movie just to jump onto the bandwagon.
According to her, “the reason why I decided to do my own production is basically because I grew up in a production home. My father owned a production studio where he did his own movies, I grew up watching him and I aspired to own a production company one day.
“If now is the time, I am not too sure but I’ve realised over a period of time that there is no such thing a perfect time, I have been waiting to do this for a really long time,” and that this is the right time for her. Already, she has written about five movie scripts.
With about years experience in the movie industry and dozens of movies under her belt, Nadia revealed that she “felt that if I want to come out and do my first production or my first movie it has to be something that people can take something away from.”
She finished shooting ‘The Diary of Imogen Brown’ in August 2013 and it was her aim to make it a Christmas gift to her fans.
Asked about the feedback of her first production, Nadia noted that feedbacks from fans “has been impressive.”
Proceeds from the premiere, she disclosed, will be going to the Nadia Buari Foundation, which is into charitable works.
Since Nadia Buari and Nollywood ‘bad boy’ Jim Iyke developed a certain bond, the pair have been in the news for all the love reasons.
Although they have vehemently denied any love relationship brewing between them, the Nollywood actor recently took her on a five-city European tour for her 31st birthday.
The rumours that the two are in a relationship gained currency when it was reported that Jim might have popped the all important “Will you marry me,” question to Nadia with an engagement ring.
Reacting to the rumours in an interview with Myjoyonline.com, Nadia dispelled the rumour saying the media are always bent on making news out of nothing.
Stretching her beautiful, delicate fingers to show some rings, she said, “When you look at these rings, I think there are three of the same kind of ring so is this an engagement ring? I think you guys want to make a story out of nothing.”
Asked the source of the rings and if they were only for fashion, Nadia said, “Of course.”
‘The Diary of Imogen Brown’
Nadia Buari is set to premiere her first movie production, ‘The Diary of Imogen Brown’ on December 23, 2013 at the Conference Centre.
‘The Diary of Imogen Brown’, a true life story, tells the story of Imogen Brown, a successful business woman who had it all – an incredibly beautiful daughter, a great home, a diamond business empire and a handsome boyfriend.
Unknown to her, her envious boyfriend, Tyler Graham, who had been having an affair with two of Imogen’s closest friends, was only interested in her wealth.
After many failed attempts to persuade Imogen to marrying him so he could take over her company, he decides to walk out on their six years relationship. In trying to get over the pain of heartbreak, she meets Stanley Coleman who introduces her to all kinds of drugs and as a result becomes an addict.
The movie stars Jim Iyke, Charles Bruce, Soraya Mensah, Heba Khaled, Kevin Boateng, Prince Mingle, Beatrice Dadson and Nadia Buari.
Asked what inspired her to go into movie production, Nadia explained that the “passion, the zeal I have for it is what inspired me and for the fact I it’s something I studied.”
With young actors and actresses including Yvonne Nelson, Yvonne Okoro and herself venturing into movie production now, Nadia dispelled assertions that she is also releasing the movie just to jump onto the bandwagon.
According to her, “the reason why I decided to do my own production is basically because I grew up in a production home. My father owned a production studio where he did his own movies, I grew up watching him and I aspired to own a production company one day.
“If now is the time, I am not too sure but I’ve realised over a period of time that there is no such thing a perfect time, I have been waiting to do this for a really long time,” and that this is the right time for her. Already, she has written about five movie scripts.
With about years experience in the movie industry and dozens of movies under her belt, Nadia revealed that she “felt that if I want to come out and do my first production or my first movie it has to be something that people can take something away from.”
She finished shooting ‘The Diary of Imogen Brown’ in August 2013 and it was her aim to make it a Christmas gift to her fans.
Asked about the feedback of her first production, Nadia noted that feedbacks from fans “has been impressive.”
Proceeds from the premiere, she disclosed, will be going to the Nadia Buari Foundation, which is into charitable works.
Actor Desmond Elliot joins politics...
Actor and movie director, Desmond Elliot has delved into politics. He is now a card carrying member of Labour Party and plans to contest for the Lagos House of Assembly, Surulere Constituency, come 2015.
Desmond, who said he's going into politics because he wants to be 'an agent of change' will start his political campaigns soon. Or maybe he's already started...we are talking about it now...lol. Wish him all the best.
Desmond, who said he's going into politics because he wants to be 'an agent of change' will start his political campaigns soon. Or maybe he's already started...we are talking about it now...lol. Wish him all the best.
Friday, December 20, 2013
Ladies get in here, Banky W says he's 100% single
The ladies man, who was last linked to gorgeous Italian-Ghanaian model Andrea Giaccaglia, told Hip Hop Magazine that he is 100% single
"That’s news to me. (His relationship with Andrea) Nothing happened, she’s a fantastic person who happens to be my friend. I think people shouldn’t be so obsessed about my relationship status, I’ll get married when the time is right and the lady is right. When these two things are in order I’ll marry. At the moment, I am 100% single”. Banky W says.
"That’s news to me. (His relationship with Andrea) Nothing happened, she’s a fantastic person who happens to be my friend. I think people shouldn’t be so obsessed about my relationship status, I’ll get married when the time is right and the lady is right. When these two things are in order I’ll marry. At the moment, I am 100% single”. Banky W says.
Candidates Record Mass Failure in Nov/Dec 2013 WASSCE Examinations
** 29% scored 5 credits, including English, Maths **
Like in two previous examinations, candidates who sat for the November/December 2013 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) recorded mass failure, as only 86, 612 candidates, representing 29.17 per cent, out of 308,217 that wrote the exam, obtained five credits, including English Language and Mathematics.
Announcing the release of the private candidate examination yesterday, the Nigeria Head of National Office (HNO), Mr. Charles Eguridu, along side his management team, which included Director of Administration, Mr. Stephen Taiwo; Director of Computer Services, Mr. Joseph Oke; Head of Test Development Division, Mrs. Olayinka Ajibade and Head of Test Administration Division, Mr. K. E. Ekekwe, admitted a decline in the performance of candidates in the exam compared to 2011 and 2012.
The HNO also disclosed at the briefing, held at the Yaba Headquarters of WAEC, that 38, 260 candidates’ results, representing 12.88 per cent, were being withheld in connection with various cases of examination malpractice.
His words: “86, 612 candidates, representing 29.17 per cent, obtained credits in five subjects and above, including English Language and Mathematics. Based on this, when compared to the November/December 2011 and 2012 WASSCE (private), there is a marked decline in candidates’ performance.”
In comparison with the November/December 2013 WASSCE results, Eguridu said in 2011, only 139, 827 candidates, representing 36.07 per cent and in 2012, 150,615 candidates, representing 37.97 per cent, obtained five credits, including English Language and Mathematics.
According to him, 82 blind candidates registered and sat for the examination, noting that only 17 candidates, representing 20.73 per cent obtained credits in five subjects, including English Language.
He however explained that blind candidates did not take Mathematics and Science practicals in the WASSCE.
Giving a breakdown of candidates’ performance, Eguridu, said 308, 217 candidates registered for the examination, out of which 296, 827 candidates, consisting of 163,659 male and 133,168 female candidates, sat for the examination, stressing that out of the number of candidates, 299,784 (including absentees) candidates, representing 97. 26 per cent had their results fully released.
The WAEC boss further noted that 8, 433 candidates, representing 2.74 per cent had a few of their subjects still being processed due to some errors mainly traceable to them and cyber cafes in the course of registration or writing the examination.
Eguridu said such errors were being corrected by the council to enable the affected candidates get their results.
He revealed that out of the number of candidates that sat for the examination, 120, 115candidates representing 40.46 per cent, obtained six credits and above, 161,721 candidates, representing 54.48 per cent got five credits and above.
In addition, the HNO said 198, 832 candidates, representing 66.98 per cent, secured credits and above in four subjects and 230, 325 candidates, representing 77.59 per cent obtained credits and above in three subjects. He added that 256, 500 candidates, representing 86.41 per cent obtained credits and above in two subjects.
Eguridu advised candidates who sat for the November/December 2013 WASSCE (private) to check the details of their performance on the council’s results website within the next 36 hours.
He paid glowing tributes to staff of the WAEC for the successes recorded during the conduct, marking and processing of the results.
The HNO revealed that from next year, candidates would not be allowed to enter the exam hall with mobile phones, as the council would introduce a metal detector to screen candidates.
According to him, this had become necessary as candidates use mobile phones to scan question papers and send it out to people to provide answers and send back.
He said WAEC could not be held responsible for the poor performance of candidates, noting that the council set questions based on the approved government syllabus, even as he disclosed that from 2014, WAEC would partner with state governments to run a clinic on how to improve results.
On exam fraud, Eguridu said beginning with the May/June 2014 WASSCE, the council would deploy cutting-edge technology in the conduct of its examinations, by using contact lens Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) smart card, for easy and accurate identification, automated attendance register, instant malpractice reporting and effective post-examination management.
He stated: “The council has continued the quest of improving its service delivery systems, particularly through the deployment of Information and Communication Technology. The council, as of today, has fully migrated from paper-based registration to electronic registration of candidates for its examinations in addition to the online checking of results and the embossment of passport photographs of candidates on their certificates.
“The council also deployed biometric technology in the registration of candidates for the November/December 2013 WASSCE. The data captured during registration formed the basis for the identification of candidates and the taking of attendance during the examination. Reports from the field indicated a drastic reduction in impersonation by candidates during the conduct of the November/December 2013 WASSCE, largely due, we believe, to the deployment of the biometric technology in the registration for the examination.”
Like in two previous examinations, candidates who sat for the November/December 2013 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) recorded mass failure, as only 86, 612 candidates, representing 29.17 per cent, out of 308,217 that wrote the exam, obtained five credits, including English Language and Mathematics.
Announcing the release of the private candidate examination yesterday, the Nigeria Head of National Office (HNO), Mr. Charles Eguridu, along side his management team, which included Director of Administration, Mr. Stephen Taiwo; Director of Computer Services, Mr. Joseph Oke; Head of Test Development Division, Mrs. Olayinka Ajibade and Head of Test Administration Division, Mr. K. E. Ekekwe, admitted a decline in the performance of candidates in the exam compared to 2011 and 2012.
The HNO also disclosed at the briefing, held at the Yaba Headquarters of WAEC, that 38, 260 candidates’ results, representing 12.88 per cent, were being withheld in connection with various cases of examination malpractice.
His words: “86, 612 candidates, representing 29.17 per cent, obtained credits in five subjects and above, including English Language and Mathematics. Based on this, when compared to the November/December 2011 and 2012 WASSCE (private), there is a marked decline in candidates’ performance.”
In comparison with the November/December 2013 WASSCE results, Eguridu said in 2011, only 139, 827 candidates, representing 36.07 per cent and in 2012, 150,615 candidates, representing 37.97 per cent, obtained five credits, including English Language and Mathematics.
According to him, 82 blind candidates registered and sat for the examination, noting that only 17 candidates, representing 20.73 per cent obtained credits in five subjects, including English Language.
He however explained that blind candidates did not take Mathematics and Science practicals in the WASSCE.
Giving a breakdown of candidates’ performance, Eguridu, said 308, 217 candidates registered for the examination, out of which 296, 827 candidates, consisting of 163,659 male and 133,168 female candidates, sat for the examination, stressing that out of the number of candidates, 299,784 (including absentees) candidates, representing 97. 26 per cent had their results fully released.
The WAEC boss further noted that 8, 433 candidates, representing 2.74 per cent had a few of their subjects still being processed due to some errors mainly traceable to them and cyber cafes in the course of registration or writing the examination.
Eguridu said such errors were being corrected by the council to enable the affected candidates get their results.
He revealed that out of the number of candidates that sat for the examination, 120, 115candidates representing 40.46 per cent, obtained six credits and above, 161,721 candidates, representing 54.48 per cent got five credits and above.
In addition, the HNO said 198, 832 candidates, representing 66.98 per cent, secured credits and above in four subjects and 230, 325 candidates, representing 77.59 per cent obtained credits and above in three subjects. He added that 256, 500 candidates, representing 86.41 per cent obtained credits and above in two subjects.
Eguridu advised candidates who sat for the November/December 2013 WASSCE (private) to check the details of their performance on the council’s results website within the next 36 hours.
He paid glowing tributes to staff of the WAEC for the successes recorded during the conduct, marking and processing of the results.
The HNO revealed that from next year, candidates would not be allowed to enter the exam hall with mobile phones, as the council would introduce a metal detector to screen candidates.
According to him, this had become necessary as candidates use mobile phones to scan question papers and send it out to people to provide answers and send back.
He said WAEC could not be held responsible for the poor performance of candidates, noting that the council set questions based on the approved government syllabus, even as he disclosed that from 2014, WAEC would partner with state governments to run a clinic on how to improve results.
On exam fraud, Eguridu said beginning with the May/June 2014 WASSCE, the council would deploy cutting-edge technology in the conduct of its examinations, by using contact lens Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) smart card, for easy and accurate identification, automated attendance register, instant malpractice reporting and effective post-examination management.
He stated: “The council has continued the quest of improving its service delivery systems, particularly through the deployment of Information and Communication Technology. The council, as of today, has fully migrated from paper-based registration to electronic registration of candidates for its examinations in addition to the online checking of results and the embossment of passport photographs of candidates on their certificates.
“The council also deployed biometric technology in the registration of candidates for the November/December 2013 WASSCE. The data captured during registration formed the basis for the identification of candidates and the taking of attendance during the examination. Reports from the field indicated a drastic reduction in impersonation by candidates during the conduct of the November/December 2013 WASSCE, largely due, we believe, to the deployment of the biometric technology in the registration for the examination.”
'She Is My Heart' - BBA Angelo Gushes About His Boo 'Candice'
Beverly ex boyfriend 'Angelo' shared this picture of his long time girlfriend 'Candice' on his instagram page and called her 'His Heart' Wow!!! True love....
Senate bans same sex marriage in Nigeria
The Nigerian Senate have officially banned same sex marriage in Nigeria. Man + Man = Not allowed. Woman + Woman = Go to prison. :-). Only a union between a man and a woman in a recognized worship center is allowed.
The new bill states;
1. A marriage contract or civil union entered into between persons of same sex by virtue a certificate issued by a foreign country shall be void in Nigeria.
2. Marriage or civil union entered into between persons of same sex shall not be solemnized in any place of worship either Church or Mosque or any other place whatsoever called in Nigeria.
3. Only marriage contracted between a man and a woman either under Islamic Law, Customary Law or the Marriage Act is recognized as valid in Nigeria.
4. Persons that entered into a same sex marriage or civil union contract commit an offense and are jointly liable on conviction to a term of 14 years imprisonment each.
5. Any persons or group of persons that administers, witnesses, screens, abet and aids the solemnization of a same sex marriage contract or civil union or supports the registration, operation of gay clubs, societies and organizations, processions or meetings in Nigeria commits an offense and liable on conviction to a term of 10 years imprisonment.
The bill awaits the approval of President Goodluck Jonathan.
The new bill states;
1. A marriage contract or civil union entered into between persons of same sex by virtue a certificate issued by a foreign country shall be void in Nigeria.
2. Marriage or civil union entered into between persons of same sex shall not be solemnized in any place of worship either Church or Mosque or any other place whatsoever called in Nigeria.
3. Only marriage contracted between a man and a woman either under Islamic Law, Customary Law or the Marriage Act is recognized as valid in Nigeria.
4. Persons that entered into a same sex marriage or civil union contract commit an offense and are jointly liable on conviction to a term of 14 years imprisonment each.
5. Any persons or group of persons that administers, witnesses, screens, abet and aids the solemnization of a same sex marriage contract or civil union or supports the registration, operation of gay clubs, societies and organizations, processions or meetings in Nigeria commits an offense and liable on conviction to a term of 10 years imprisonment.
The bill awaits the approval of President Goodluck Jonathan.
Obasanjo blasts Vanguard over daughter's open letter
Former president Olusegun Obasanjo has reacted in very strong terms over the 11-page letter purportedly written by his daughter Iyabo Obasanjo and exclusively published by Vanguard yesterday where he was described as a liar, manipulator and a woman beater.
A call was put through to the former president yesterday by the editors of Vanguard to hear his side of the allegations leveled against him by his daughter and the conversation went thus:
Vanguard: Sir, we tried reaching you all through yesterday, to no avail, over the letter written by your daughter, Iyabo, to you.
Chief Obasanjo: You are a bloody idiot, you have published the paper and you are now looking for me, you are an idiot, don’t call me again. When Iyabo finishes you in court…. (hangs up).
Meanwhile it seems Iyabo Obasanjo really wrote that letter. Continue...
From Vanguard
Following the hoopla over her letter, Iyabo spoke severally to Vanguard, yesterday. Asked to respond to claims that she had denied the authorship of the letter written to her father, Iyabo, who holds a doctorate in epidemology and now resident in the United States, said:
“No, no, no, that is not true. How can you live by social media? That is part of the problem with Nigeria, people want to be flying rumours. I have not told anybody o! It is early morning here and I just woke up and if I were you I would just ignore them,” Senator Obasanjo said.
“People are calling me and telling me that they called Baba but if I say I am not talking to someone (her father), how can you say you called the person and the person will tell you what is on my mind?” she asked.
Giving reasons on why she broke off, she said that after a break from relating with Obasanjo, she found out days ago that her father would not change from the manipulative person she had known all along.
“The whole of last year I didn’t speak to him and I just started speaking to him recently, and the last time he was trying to manipulate me to say, this, say that. I can’t be saying no when you say no.
“The last time I spoke to him was three days ago and I decided that I was not going to speak to him again after that. That was the communication through which I realized that this man would never change from manipulations for himself.”
Dismissing her unsolicited canvassers on social media, she said:
“I was surprised that they would say that they called Baba, and I said to myself, are these people mad? How can you call the person that I said I am not talking to, to ask him whether I wrote a letter or not and he is going to speak for me?
“Nobody can say that I told him that I didn’t write it. I am not a liar. I will not back away from what I wrote and there is nothing that is there that is a lie. In the last four years how many of them have spoken to me? They are all mad people,” she said.
A call was put through to the former president yesterday by the editors of Vanguard to hear his side of the allegations leveled against him by his daughter and the conversation went thus:
Vanguard: Sir, we tried reaching you all through yesterday, to no avail, over the letter written by your daughter, Iyabo, to you.
Chief Obasanjo: You are a bloody idiot, you have published the paper and you are now looking for me, you are an idiot, don’t call me again. When Iyabo finishes you in court…. (hangs up).
Meanwhile it seems Iyabo Obasanjo really wrote that letter. Continue...
From Vanguard
Following the hoopla over her letter, Iyabo spoke severally to Vanguard, yesterday. Asked to respond to claims that she had denied the authorship of the letter written to her father, Iyabo, who holds a doctorate in epidemology and now resident in the United States, said:
“No, no, no, that is not true. How can you live by social media? That is part of the problem with Nigeria, people want to be flying rumours. I have not told anybody o! It is early morning here and I just woke up and if I were you I would just ignore them,” Senator Obasanjo said.
“People are calling me and telling me that they called Baba but if I say I am not talking to someone (her father), how can you say you called the person and the person will tell you what is on my mind?” she asked.
Giving reasons on why she broke off, she said that after a break from relating with Obasanjo, she found out days ago that her father would not change from the manipulative person she had known all along.
“The whole of last year I didn’t speak to him and I just started speaking to him recently, and the last time he was trying to manipulate me to say, this, say that. I can’t be saying no when you say no.
“The last time I spoke to him was three days ago and I decided that I was not going to speak to him again after that. That was the communication through which I realized that this man would never change from manipulations for himself.”
Dismissing her unsolicited canvassers on social media, she said:
“I was surprised that they would say that they called Baba, and I said to myself, are these people mad? How can you call the person that I said I am not talking to, to ask him whether I wrote a letter or not and he is going to speak for me?
“Nobody can say that I told him that I didn’t write it. I am not a liar. I will not back away from what I wrote and there is nothing that is there that is a lie. In the last four years how many of them have spoken to me? They are all mad people,” she said.
Mountain of Fire begins crusade to close all beer parlors in Lagos
Dr Daniel Olukoya-led Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries church, MFM, will today Dec. 19th begin a crusade to close down all beer parlor outlets in Lagos and turn them into their praying centres. Well, that's their plan, they can only try. Lol
The church says it took the decision to close down beer parlors because alcohol consumption & crime go hand in hand. They say the action would ultimately help depopulate the kingdom of darkness. Ogba, Ikeja is their kickoff base, so all you beer drinkers in that area, make una get ready. Hehe.
Speaking on the strategy to be adopted, Pastor Aderemi Oseni, Regional Pastor for Region 32 MFM Ogba, Lagos, he said;
"We want to convert beer parlours into our praying centres. At the end of the crusade, the kingdom of darkness would be depopulated completely. I am aware that powers of darkness have converted major roads to shines in this environment. We want to pull down all shrines".
The crusade, tagged 'Overcoming The Storm' will begin today 19 December.
The church says it took the decision to close down beer parlors because alcohol consumption & crime go hand in hand. They say the action would ultimately help depopulate the kingdom of darkness. Ogba, Ikeja is their kickoff base, so all you beer drinkers in that area, make una get ready. Hehe.
Speaking on the strategy to be adopted, Pastor Aderemi Oseni, Regional Pastor for Region 32 MFM Ogba, Lagos, he said;
"We want to convert beer parlours into our praying centres. At the end of the crusade, the kingdom of darkness would be depopulated completely. I am aware that powers of darkness have converted major roads to shines in this environment. We want to pull down all shrines".
The crusade, tagged 'Overcoming The Storm' will begin today 19 December.
Homosexuality is well rooted in the core of Nigerian society &identity - Bisi Alimi writes
Nigeria's foremost gay activist, Bisi Alimi 2 days ago delivered a lecture titled “Post-colonial sexual identity and orientation in Nigeria” at Free University in Berlin, Germany where he said homosexuality is very African as much as it is Nigerian. Below is an extract from his paper:
Even though Nigeria has recently seen a more active conversation around the issue of sexuality and gender, these conversations are played out on the premise of sentiments, morality, religion and assumptions rather than on facts. But it is facts and not assumption that can put things into perspective.
The argument against homosexuality in Nigeria has been on the premise that it is “un-African” and hence not part of our culture. The other premise used is that since it is not part of our culture, therefore it is “un-biblical”.
Since the introduction of modern religion into Africa, there has been confusion between the real African identity vs enforced identity.
This confusion has also found its way into the discourse around cultural identity. The modern understanding of what really is an “African culture” has created a basis for identity misunderstanding not just in Nigeria, but the whole of Africa.
It was not only religion that played a role in the misconstruction of “African Culture” in the 21st century. With the coming of colonizing, African identities were systematically washed away. Africans were made to believe through western education, politics and religion that anything African is not fit for purpose and therefore demonized in most of the cases.
However, unlike culture, identity is more on a personal individualist level. Identity could be strongly interwoven with culture.
I remembered when I first came to the United Kingdom, as a Nigerian. There are certain things in my culture that were not permitted within the English culture. For example, the English could not understand why I have to eat certain food with my fingers.
However, that lack of cultural understanding has not taken away from me my gender identity as a man nor has it eroded my sexual identity as a gay man.
Therefore, how then does the argument used by Nigerian religious and political class as regards sexuality and gender fit into the actualization of fundamental human rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) people?
Prior to colonization, there are evidences to prove that Africa was never a “heteronomative” society. In “African Sexualities: A Reader” Sylvia Tamale argues: “African sexuality lies in ancient histories that live through girot, ighyuwas, imbongies, jellies, igawens, guewels".
As a young child with deep interest in my culture, I was really fascinated at the eloquences with which histories are passed on from generation to generations in Africa through the power of poetry and oration.
I remembered in 2005, as part of my research in sexuality and sexual identity, I came across the famous word “Adodi”. This translates as “anus fucker”. The fact that there is a language for sexual behaviour explains that there are indeed people that are considered as such.
Aside from that, many of African arts (it is important to note here that while Africans were never seen as writers, the one fact that can never be taken away from us is that fact that we are artist. We tell the story of our lives through our sculpture, painting and drawing), have shown the celebration of same sexual relationship before the colonization of the continent.
African arts has had huge influence on the Greek art and even more so the roman arts. These arts that not only promote but celebrate sexuality has African culture and identity at its core.
From Igbo Ukwu, to Benin and Ife art, Nigerian art works celebrate the existence of same sexual relationship, not as seen as “homosexuality” in modern terms, but as a process of nurturing the acceptance of dualism of sexuality.
In religious setting, most Nigerian gods actually have dual sexes. Take for example ESU who is neither man nor woman, male of female. Shango, the god of thunder is dressed as transvestites, wearing skirts with earrings on both ears and braided hair. Obatala, though a male god is subtle, emotional and sexual.
Even more interesting are the female gods. Oya the goddess of the ocean and Yemoja the mermaid are said to have used their sexuality to conquer men. They were not just seductive, but they exhibited a level of romantic affinity for each other.
Then the question will be, what happened? Ben Anderson in “The Politics of Homosexuality in Africa” examined the written literature of colonial observation of same sexual relationship in Africa.
According to him, examples of famous western sexuality historians like Staples, Davies and Whitten tend to disregard pre-colonial homosexuality in Africa as a forced, accidental ‘phase’ rather than a cognitive choice”.
Anderson noted that in an article in 1982, Lamb argued, “it is curious by Western standards that homosexuality in Africa is virtually unknown.” He stated further that “Africa’s traditional is rigidly heterosexual”.
As a student of African sexuality and gender identity, I know this is not true. I am not alone in my argument, Dr. C. Otutubikey Izugbara in a paper titled “Patriarchal Ideology and Discourses of Sexuality in Nigeria” explained that “evidence, indeed suggests that, in many cases, homosexual practices, while not always explicitly discussed or identified as such in larger public imaginary were often treated with more tolerance in pre-colonial Nigeria than during and after colonial period”.
In the book “The origins and Role of Same Sex Relations in Human Societies” James Neil buttressed my earlier assertion that in Nigeria homosexuality is rooted in our traditional religious believe. He stated, “members of the a spirit possession cult among the Hausa in northern Nigeria practices cross-dressing and take the passive role in homosexual intercourse”.
Lyn Ossome in her contribution to Queer African Reader edited by Sokari Ekine and Hakima Abbas further dismissed the perceived westernization of homosexuality on the continent of Africa. In a contribution, she argued that the notion that “there is no homosexuality in Africa” is a false claim “often accompanied by the similarity insidious accusation that homosexuality is a ‘western perversion’ imposed upon or adopted by African population”.
In the book “The construction of Homosexuality” Greenburg documented the existence of same sexual relationship in diverse African communities including Nigeria. Also Davis and co in “The Cross-Cultural Study of Human Sexuality. Annual review of Anthropology” argued that “a wide variety of homosexual behaviour is reported”, they also documented “the use of artificial phalli” between two women as a “compensation for rare heterosexual intercourse”.
Two notable anthropologists have not only documented behaviours, but they have also shown acceptance even to the level of marriage. First of such is William Naphy in his well-written book “Born to be Gay”. In it, Naphy captured the process of same gender marriage with the medium of paying bride price. He claimed, “it is clear that customs involving woman-woman ‘marriages” (in which case bride-price and dowries may exchange hands) is extensive”. He dismissed argument against same sex relations in Africa as ‘ludicrous and to suggest that a practice which is so widespread and yet differently constructed is anything but indigenous. Even more so Naphy considered any argument by white Europeans against the exhibition of same sex relations between Africans as racism.
Another interesting take on beyond sexual behaviour to actual exhibition of relationship is ‘Boy wives ad female husband’. According to Anderson, this book in its research “also effectively demonstrates the existence of same sex love before the arrival of the white settlers”
But let us for a second agree with the proposition of Staples that exhibition of same sexual behaviour in pre-colonial Nigeria was a phase. The question we then have to ask is: where did they learn this phase? Who and what influenced the occurrence of this phase among what the western academia will refer as “primitive” people.
There are possibly two answers to these questions. Its is either we argue that Africans are of lesser human and therefore happened to experiment occasional sexuality, or that actually, homosexuality like every other human traits is inherent in all people irrespective of race, gender, or age.
If you agree with me that homosexuality is very African as much as it is Nigerian, then the argument put forward by both the western and the African opposition to homosexual behaviour is flawed.
Based on the above explanation and argument, I will say that homosexuality is well rooted in the core of Nigerian society and identity
Even though Nigeria has recently seen a more active conversation around the issue of sexuality and gender, these conversations are played out on the premise of sentiments, morality, religion and assumptions rather than on facts. But it is facts and not assumption that can put things into perspective.
The argument against homosexuality in Nigeria has been on the premise that it is “un-African” and hence not part of our culture. The other premise used is that since it is not part of our culture, therefore it is “un-biblical”.
Since the introduction of modern religion into Africa, there has been confusion between the real African identity vs enforced identity.
This confusion has also found its way into the discourse around cultural identity. The modern understanding of what really is an “African culture” has created a basis for identity misunderstanding not just in Nigeria, but the whole of Africa.
It was not only religion that played a role in the misconstruction of “African Culture” in the 21st century. With the coming of colonizing, African identities were systematically washed away. Africans were made to believe through western education, politics and religion that anything African is not fit for purpose and therefore demonized in most of the cases.
However, unlike culture, identity is more on a personal individualist level. Identity could be strongly interwoven with culture.
I remembered when I first came to the United Kingdom, as a Nigerian. There are certain things in my culture that were not permitted within the English culture. For example, the English could not understand why I have to eat certain food with my fingers.
However, that lack of cultural understanding has not taken away from me my gender identity as a man nor has it eroded my sexual identity as a gay man.
Therefore, how then does the argument used by Nigerian religious and political class as regards sexuality and gender fit into the actualization of fundamental human rights for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) people?
Prior to colonization, there are evidences to prove that Africa was never a “heteronomative” society. In “African Sexualities: A Reader” Sylvia Tamale argues: “African sexuality lies in ancient histories that live through girot, ighyuwas, imbongies, jellies, igawens, guewels".
As a young child with deep interest in my culture, I was really fascinated at the eloquences with which histories are passed on from generation to generations in Africa through the power of poetry and oration.
I remembered in 2005, as part of my research in sexuality and sexual identity, I came across the famous word “Adodi”. This translates as “anus fucker”. The fact that there is a language for sexual behaviour explains that there are indeed people that are considered as such.
Aside from that, many of African arts (it is important to note here that while Africans were never seen as writers, the one fact that can never be taken away from us is that fact that we are artist. We tell the story of our lives through our sculpture, painting and drawing), have shown the celebration of same sexual relationship before the colonization of the continent.
African arts has had huge influence on the Greek art and even more so the roman arts. These arts that not only promote but celebrate sexuality has African culture and identity at its core.
From Igbo Ukwu, to Benin and Ife art, Nigerian art works celebrate the existence of same sexual relationship, not as seen as “homosexuality” in modern terms, but as a process of nurturing the acceptance of dualism of sexuality.
In religious setting, most Nigerian gods actually have dual sexes. Take for example ESU who is neither man nor woman, male of female. Shango, the god of thunder is dressed as transvestites, wearing skirts with earrings on both ears and braided hair. Obatala, though a male god is subtle, emotional and sexual.
Even more interesting are the female gods. Oya the goddess of the ocean and Yemoja the mermaid are said to have used their sexuality to conquer men. They were not just seductive, but they exhibited a level of romantic affinity for each other.
Then the question will be, what happened? Ben Anderson in “The Politics of Homosexuality in Africa” examined the written literature of colonial observation of same sexual relationship in Africa.
According to him, examples of famous western sexuality historians like Staples, Davies and Whitten tend to disregard pre-colonial homosexuality in Africa as a forced, accidental ‘phase’ rather than a cognitive choice”.
Anderson noted that in an article in 1982, Lamb argued, “it is curious by Western standards that homosexuality in Africa is virtually unknown.” He stated further that “Africa’s traditional is rigidly heterosexual”.
As a student of African sexuality and gender identity, I know this is not true. I am not alone in my argument, Dr. C. Otutubikey Izugbara in a paper titled “Patriarchal Ideology and Discourses of Sexuality in Nigeria” explained that “evidence, indeed suggests that, in many cases, homosexual practices, while not always explicitly discussed or identified as such in larger public imaginary were often treated with more tolerance in pre-colonial Nigeria than during and after colonial period”.
In the book “The origins and Role of Same Sex Relations in Human Societies” James Neil buttressed my earlier assertion that in Nigeria homosexuality is rooted in our traditional religious believe. He stated, “members of the a spirit possession cult among the Hausa in northern Nigeria practices cross-dressing and take the passive role in homosexual intercourse”.
Lyn Ossome in her contribution to Queer African Reader edited by Sokari Ekine and Hakima Abbas further dismissed the perceived westernization of homosexuality on the continent of Africa. In a contribution, she argued that the notion that “there is no homosexuality in Africa” is a false claim “often accompanied by the similarity insidious accusation that homosexuality is a ‘western perversion’ imposed upon or adopted by African population”.
In the book “The construction of Homosexuality” Greenburg documented the existence of same sexual relationship in diverse African communities including Nigeria. Also Davis and co in “The Cross-Cultural Study of Human Sexuality. Annual review of Anthropology” argued that “a wide variety of homosexual behaviour is reported”, they also documented “the use of artificial phalli” between two women as a “compensation for rare heterosexual intercourse”.
Two notable anthropologists have not only documented behaviours, but they have also shown acceptance even to the level of marriage. First of such is William Naphy in his well-written book “Born to be Gay”. In it, Naphy captured the process of same gender marriage with the medium of paying bride price. He claimed, “it is clear that customs involving woman-woman ‘marriages” (in which case bride-price and dowries may exchange hands) is extensive”. He dismissed argument against same sex relations in Africa as ‘ludicrous and to suggest that a practice which is so widespread and yet differently constructed is anything but indigenous. Even more so Naphy considered any argument by white Europeans against the exhibition of same sex relations between Africans as racism.
Another interesting take on beyond sexual behaviour to actual exhibition of relationship is ‘Boy wives ad female husband’. According to Anderson, this book in its research “also effectively demonstrates the existence of same sex love before the arrival of the white settlers”
But let us for a second agree with the proposition of Staples that exhibition of same sexual behaviour in pre-colonial Nigeria was a phase. The question we then have to ask is: where did they learn this phase? Who and what influenced the occurrence of this phase among what the western academia will refer as “primitive” people.
There are possibly two answers to these questions. Its is either we argue that Africans are of lesser human and therefore happened to experiment occasional sexuality, or that actually, homosexuality like every other human traits is inherent in all people irrespective of race, gender, or age.
If you agree with me that homosexuality is very African as much as it is Nigerian, then the argument put forward by both the western and the African opposition to homosexual behaviour is flawed.
Based on the above explanation and argument, I will say that homosexuality is well rooted in the core of Nigerian society and identity
Commercial Bus and Conductors to wear Uniform next year
The Lagos state Commissioner for Transportation, Comrade Kayode Opeifa while speaking at a stakeholders meeting in Lagos yesterday revealed that come 2014 the Lagos state government would be introducing the use of uniforms and badges for commercial bus drivers and conductors. He said the move is geared towards proper identification & effective management of the public transportation sector.
Heart breaking News:New born twins thrown into the canal
An unidentified woman allegedly threw her new born set of twins into the canal...watch the video..
What mannerof wickness.. Mtcheeeww
What mannerof wickness.. Mtcheeeww
Dear LIB readers: Will my ex-girlfriend's curse affect me?
From a male LIB reader...
I had a girlfriend for over five years and she did more than six abortions for me. Didn't think she could have any children in the future that is why I recently broke up with her. Abeg I didn't want to waste time when I eventually marry cos I'm the only boy in my family. I heard she got naked and was swearing for me in her compound. Please does it work. Can the swear catch me?
Lol @can the swear catch me? Before??? Lol.
I had a girlfriend for over five years and she did more than six abortions for me. Didn't think she could have any children in the future that is why I recently broke up with her. Abeg I didn't want to waste time when I eventually marry cos I'm the only boy in my family. I heard she got naked and was swearing for me in her compound. Please does it work. Can the swear catch me?
Lol @can the swear catch me? Before??? Lol.
Beyonce reaches platinum status, 1million copies of new album sold in 6 days
Without any promos or in store sales, Beyonce has sold 1 million copies of her new album worldwide on iTunes. Queen Bey reached platinum status in just six days, with over 600k copies of the album sold in the US alone. The album officially hits stores tomorrow December 20th.
Kim K Shows Off Her Amazing Post-pregnancy Body In White Bikini
The figure on this woman tho. See the curves. The reality star showed off her sizzling post baby body during an outing with friends at the beach in Miami recently. More photos after the cut...
There Are More APC Members in House of Reps; PDP Cries Out
What has been dubbed the Broom Revolution by political analysts swept across the House of Reps in Abuja on Wednesday and at the end, the PDP suffered a major set back as thirty-seven (37) of its once loyal members in the House defected to the All Progressives Congress, APC.
According to the lawmakers, they are joining the APC because of what they described as factionalisation and division within the PDP. The decampees further stated that their defection to the APC is in obedience to Section 68, sub-section 1(g) of the constitution.
But the PDP leadership has cried out that APC should "leave our people for us".
In fact, feelers from PDP headquarters in Abuja indicated that the party is mad at the move as it had thought that the lawmakers would be afraid to decamp and follow the five governors who dumped the party. I hear the PDP is threatening to go to court and plead for an order to declare the seats of the lawmakers vacant.
The defected lawmakers are however saying that they are gone for good. “We are joining the APC due to division and factionalisation within the PDP. The defection is also in obedience to Section 68, sub-section 1(g) of the constitution”, they said in their statement.
According to the lawmakers, they are joining the APC because of what they described as factionalisation and division within the PDP. The decampees further stated that their defection to the APC is in obedience to Section 68, sub-section 1(g) of the constitution.
But the PDP leadership has cried out that APC should "leave our people for us".
In fact, feelers from PDP headquarters in Abuja indicated that the party is mad at the move as it had thought that the lawmakers would be afraid to decamp and follow the five governors who dumped the party. I hear the PDP is threatening to go to court and plead for an order to declare the seats of the lawmakers vacant.
The defected lawmakers are however saying that they are gone for good. “We are joining the APC due to division and factionalisation within the PDP. The defection is also in obedience to Section 68, sub-section 1(g) of the constitution”, they said in their statement.
Celebrities honour Nelson Mandela at The Legacy Concert
Nigerian stars came out in their numbers on Thursday, December 18, 2013 to celebrate the life of an icon and legend; Nelson Mandela at Oceanview Restaurant, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The free concert was put together by the Nigeria Stars in collaboration with Mo Abudu’s EbonyLife TV in celebration of the extraordinary life and times of the legendary freedom fighter. Present at the event were Dbanj, Tiwa Savage, Tuface, Waje, Timi Dakolo, Nneka, Ikechukwu, Niyola, Chuddy K, Julius Agwu, Joseph Benjamin, K switch, Nikki Laoye, Victoria Kimani and others. Continue...
Chuddy K and Cobhams Asuquo
Dare Art Alade and Seyi Shay
Tiwa Savage and Timi Dakolo
Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, Julius Agwu and Elohor Aisien
Funlola Raimi and Ikechukwu
The free concert was put together by the Nigeria Stars in collaboration with Mo Abudu’s EbonyLife TV in celebration of the extraordinary life and times of the legendary freedom fighter. Present at the event were Dbanj, Tiwa Savage, Tuface, Waje, Timi Dakolo, Nneka, Ikechukwu, Niyola, Chuddy K, Julius Agwu, Joseph Benjamin, K switch, Nikki Laoye, Victoria Kimani and others. Continue...
Chuddy K and Cobhams Asuquo
Dare Art Alade and Seyi Shay
Tiwa Savage and Timi Dakolo
Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, Julius Agwu and Elohor Aisien
Funlola Raimi and Ikechukwu
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Senator Yerima divorces 17year old Egyptian wife, marries another 15yr old
Three years after marrying a 14 year old Egyptian girl named Marian, which was widely protested in Nigeria, former Zamfara state governor and serving senator of the federal republic of Nigeria, Sen. Ahmed Yerima, has reportedly divorced her to marry a new wife, City People reports. According to the magazine, Yerima and four men, said to be members of the Zamfara State House of Assembly were in Egypt a few weeks ago for the wedding fathia of a new bride said to be 15 years old.
Marian who is now 17 and a mother of one, is believed to be the daughter of the former governor's driver whenever he visits Egypt.
The reason he divorced her is to enable him take a new wife as he's not allowed more than four wives.
The Senator is alleged to have married and divorced a few women in the last few years but has never changed his first three wives, only the fourth ones.
Sen. Ahmed Yerima this year was strongly against the deletion of the section of the 1999 constitution which pegged the official marriage age in Nigeria as 18 years, saying it was anti-Islam.
Marian who is now 17 and a mother of one, is believed to be the daughter of the former governor's driver whenever he visits Egypt.
The reason he divorced her is to enable him take a new wife as he's not allowed more than four wives.
The Senator is alleged to have married and divorced a few women in the last few years but has never changed his first three wives, only the fourth ones.
Sen. Ahmed Yerima this year was strongly against the deletion of the section of the 1999 constitution which pegged the official marriage age in Nigeria as 18 years, saying it was anti-Islam.
OC Ukeje Openly Declares His Love For Chidinma Ekile
Another celebrity has declared his love for Chidinma Ekile just like one of the Skuki brothers openly did. This time around, it’s one of the best actors we have around, OC Ukeje. OC in a new interview with Ynaija reveals how he had lots of school mothers because he was quite handsome then and his crush in the entertainment industry at the moment is Chidinma Ekile. Enjoy!
Okay now knowing that you were “cute” meant you had alot of crushes on girls right?
OC Ukeje: Well I had, and you know because of the school mother concept I had a lot of girls who wanted to be my school mothers. At a time, I think I had three of them and one was a hausa chick , her name just barely skipped my mind but yeah I had “school mothers”.
Then one of the girls that I had a huge crush on, her older sister was like my school aunty, her name I remember clearly “Teni” because her sister was my classmate and I a huge crush on her because she was super cute he name was “ Toyin Alabi” I don’t know if she is married now, she probably is, but you know that’s how it went.
Who is your crush in the entertainment industry at the moment?
OC Ukeje: I would say Chidinma Ekile, she is all forms of cute.
Okay now knowing that you were “cute” meant you had alot of crushes on girls right?
OC Ukeje: Well I had, and you know because of the school mother concept I had a lot of girls who wanted to be my school mothers. At a time, I think I had three of them and one was a hausa chick , her name just barely skipped my mind but yeah I had “school mothers”.
Then one of the girls that I had a huge crush on, her older sister was like my school aunty, her name I remember clearly “Teni” because her sister was my classmate and I a huge crush on her because she was super cute he name was “ Toyin Alabi” I don’t know if she is married now, she probably is, but you know that’s how it went.
Who is your crush in the entertainment industry at the moment?
OC Ukeje: I would say Chidinma Ekile, she is all forms of cute.
Beyonce Hits 800,000 Downloads In 3days, Rihanna Furious!
Beyonce took fans by surprise when she released a 32 track album on iTunes which has now made history as the fastest ever iTunes seller with more than 800,000 downloads in 3 days.
One person is reportedly angry about this and this is Rihanna.Reports claim she is furious that Beyonce intentionally tried to upstage the video for her No1 hit with Eminem Monster .Her video is dropping today but its no match for Beyonce’s whooping 17 videos.
“Rihanna and Beyonce have always had a very cordial [relationship], but they are definitely competitors,
“I think Beyonce is jealous of Rihanna. First there were those Jay Z [affair] rumors, and lately people are acting like Rihanna [is] the top girl in the game. . . . [I think] Beyonce definitely pulled a power play and let Rihanna know who the Queen is.” Considering that the pair share the same management, there could definitely be some angry phone calls flying, courtesy of BadGalRiri.
In their defense, there’s a great chance that Rihanna’s team was completely in the dark about the whole thing, along with pretty much the rest of the entertainment industry
According to Mediatakeout
One person is reportedly angry about this and this is Rihanna.Reports claim she is furious that Beyonce intentionally tried to upstage the video for her No1 hit with Eminem Monster .Her video is dropping today but its no match for Beyonce’s whooping 17 videos.
“Rihanna and Beyonce have always had a very cordial [relationship], but they are definitely competitors,
“I think Beyonce is jealous of Rihanna. First there were those Jay Z [affair] rumors, and lately people are acting like Rihanna [is] the top girl in the game. . . . [I think] Beyonce definitely pulled a power play and let Rihanna know who the Queen is.” Considering that the pair share the same management, there could definitely be some angry phone calls flying, courtesy of BadGalRiri.
In their defense, there’s a great chance that Rihanna’s team was completely in the dark about the whole thing, along with pretty much the rest of the entertainment industry
According to Mediatakeout
Monday, December 16, 2013
The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU may have called off its five-months-old strike according Daily Post. The National Executive Committee of ASUU held a meeting on Monday to decide when to call off the five-month-old strike after signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the federal government. The agreement includes transfer of Federal Government property to universities; setting up of research and development units by companies. Developing story on Daily Post
The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU may have called off its five-months-old strike according Daily Post.
The National Executive Committee of ASUU held a meeting on Monday to decide when to call off the five-month-old strike after signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the federal government.
The agreement includes transfer of Federal Government property to universities; setting up of research and development units by companies.
Developing story on Daily Post
The National Executive Committee of ASUU held a meeting on Monday to decide when to call off the five-month-old strike after signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the federal government.
The agreement includes transfer of Federal Government property to universities; setting up of research and development units by companies.
Developing story on Daily Post
Sunday, December 15, 2013
First Lady of Nigeria said she want to be address as mama Peace.. winck
The first Lady of Nigeria said yesterday at an event in Abuja that she no longer wants to be called Patience but Mama Peace...
Speaking during the inauguration of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme Maternal and Child Health known as MAMA Project, Patience Jonathan explained why she now wants to be addressed as Mama Peace. The First Lady said:
"My name is no more Patience but now Mama Peace because I believe that without peace, there will be no more women, no more children and no more health sector. Without peace, the international community will be afraid to come and invest in our country. Peace is from the heart and not from the tongue or lips; not what you say but what is in you. We pray for genuine peace because peace is the key to our arriving at our desired destination as a nation.
“We are approaching the new year which is a year of peace, progress and so many good things to come. 2014 is going to be a year of no militancy and no Boko Haram because God will shower peace and make us take a U-turn from disaster.”
Amen. Una hear...? She's now to be addressed as First Lady Mama Peace...:-)
Speaking during the inauguration of the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme Maternal and Child Health known as MAMA Project, Patience Jonathan explained why she now wants to be addressed as Mama Peace. The First Lady said:
"My name is no more Patience but now Mama Peace because I believe that without peace, there will be no more women, no more children and no more health sector. Without peace, the international community will be afraid to come and invest in our country. Peace is from the heart and not from the tongue or lips; not what you say but what is in you. We pray for genuine peace because peace is the key to our arriving at our desired destination as a nation.
“We are approaching the new year which is a year of peace, progress and so many good things to come. 2014 is going to be a year of no militancy and no Boko Haram because God will shower peace and make us take a U-turn from disaster.”
Amen. Una hear...? She's now to be addressed as First Lady Mama Peace...:-)
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