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Sunday, May 31, 2015

FIFA's Corruption Also Has A Human Cost


Following the arrest of senior officials accused of “rampant” corruption, some of FIFA’s key sponsors have threatened to reassess their relationship with the organization. Allegations of bribery amounting to over $100 million have rocked soccer’s world governing body but this story isn’t just about money. It’s also important to mention the deaths that are going to be associated with soccer’s showpiece event in 2022. The decision to award the 2022 World Cup to Qatar didn’t just raise eyebrows. It also created a storm of controversy and disbelief. The World Cup would take place in a tiny nation with a questionable human rights record, barely any soccer culture, and in a climate where playing the sport would be nearly physically impossible.



More importantly, however, migrant workers have been dying in droves since Qatar started work on the infrastructure for the event. Even though it’s difficult to obtain data on the exact number of fatalities, a Guardian investigation revealed migrant workers in Qatar, primarily from Bangladesh, India and Nepal, were dying at the rate of one every two days. The Washington Post compared these figures with other sporting events to gauge the sheer scale of the situation in Qatar. Even though it’s also difficult to divulge which deaths are directly associated with the World Cup, numbers are almost certain to be high. Whether corruption is proven or not, the decision to host the event in such a country is already having far-reaching and fatal consequences. If the current trend continues, 4,000 migrant workers will die in Qatar by the time a ball is kicked in 2022.

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Emirates Takes Over English FA Cup


Emirates Takes Over English FA Cup

London, UK & Dubai,  – 31st May, 2015; Emirates, a global connector of people and passions, and The FA, today announce that the airline will become the Lead Partner of The FA Cup, to be known as The Emirates FA Cup, from next season until 2018.

This season has seen one of the great FA Cup campaigns, from Middlesbrough beating Manchester City in the Fourth Round, to Bradford City shocking Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on the same day. Over 2million fans have attended an FA Cup game this season with the competition also enjoying a resurgence in popularity amongst domestic and global television audiences.


With over 700 clubs entering the competition since it began in August, The FA Cup continues to touch all parts of the world’s favourite sport, with its distributions being critical to the lifeblood of non-league, amateur and grassroots football in England.


Emirates is a long-standing supporter of football with partnerships across Europe including AC Milan, Real Madrid, Olympiacos FC, Hamburger SV, Benfica, Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal. Throughout the next three years, Emirates will focus on bringing the world’s most prestigious domestic cup competition closer to its fans from across the nation as well as the rest of the globe.

Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline said: “Football is a truly global sport, a unifying factor in many communities and nations across the world. Never is this more evident than with The FA Cup, which has an unrivalled heritage and draws a global audience of more than 1.1 billion people. The spirit of competition, fair play, and sparking the passions of a global audience, are all values we share at Emirates. That is why we are proud to be the first title sponsor of the tournament and we look forward to a long-term partnership to support and connect fans to their teams both here in the UK and across the world.”
>
> The FA is the not-for-profit, governing body of football in England which re-invests £100m back into the game each year. It grows participation, promotes diversity and regulates the sport for everyone to enjoy. Over eight million players of all ages, 400,000 volunteers, 300,000 coaches and 27,000 qualified referees help The FA keep the grassroots game going.

Greg Dyke, Chairman of The FA said: “Emirates’ commitment to our sport is evident and securing such an iconic and forward-thinking lead partner for The FA Cup is great news for us, the fans and for the whole game. The partnership will help take the tournament to new audiences, inspire interest in football from across the globe and allow us to continue our investment into the game at all levels.”

Next season’s FA Cup kicks off on 15th August with Extra-Preliminary rounds and culminates in a showpiece final at Wembley on Saturday 21st May 2016.

-ENDS-

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Saturday, May 30, 2015

See World Leaders Who Love Apple iPad - Obama, Obasanjo, Abubakar and Shonekan


Apple iPad Air is an amazing tablet that even world leaders are fascinated to see how it works; from President Barack Obama in Washington, D.C. to the former Presidents of Nigeria; Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd) Chief Ernest Shonekan and Chief Olusegun Obasanjo at the inauguration of the new President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari on Friday May 29, 2015, at the Eagle Square, Abuja.


You can get yours at the Apple iStore, Ikeja Mall, Ikeja, Lagos. And from June 1, Apple iStore Offers Big Deals @ Jumia's Mobile Week Megathon!

 Get your iPad & iPhone from the authorised Apple iStore 

Mr. Rutger-Jan van Spaandonk, Chairman, Core group Africa, Apple’s official value added distributors for sub-Saharan Africa has advised Nigerian consumers to avoid buying grey Apple products from unauthorized resellers, as these products do not honour warranty agreement and deny consumers of the full buyer’s benefits. “We appeal to Nigerians to buy their iPads, iPhones and other Apple products from the iStore located in ikeja Mall and the authorized resellers to get the best value for their hard earned money, enjoy authentic warranty documentation and experience". Core Group Africa acts as the dedicated full-service brand custodians, managing a brand’s presence from end-to-end, taking care of logistics, distribution, sales, training, marketing and support. The iPad and full range of Apple products are available at the Apple iStore in Ikeja Shoprite Shopping Mall. It is the home of everything Apple in Nigeria, and customers can get the same great Apple experience, as obtainable in USA, Europe and other developed markets. Slot is also an authorized Apple distributor

 Apple iStore Offers Big Deals @ Jumia's Mobile Week Megathon


Apple iStore Offers Big Deals @ Jumia's Mobile Week Megathon

Apple iStore, (The home of everything Apple in Nigeria)is has announced it's special participation in Jumia’s Mobile Week Megathon, the one and only mobile sale of this size in Nigeria, taking place from the 1st to the 7th of June. iStore and Jumia partnered to offer mega deals on its finest and latest Apple products, from iPhones to iPads on iStore Online - Powered by Jumia - for seven days in a row, offering customers nationwide the chance to purchase the Apple device of their dreams at a price they won’t be able to find somewhere else.

Jumia has been revolutionizing the way of accessing the Nigerian market for mobile brands for three years now, providing trustworthy, direct and fast access to Apple products for the end customers. It is therefore natural that iStore collaborates with Jumia to bring to its customers exactly what they want, and at the best price. Apple Deals available are:

1. 10% Discount across iPad mini, iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3. All capacities and colors where applicable (16, 32, 64 & 128GB - White, Black, Space Grey, Gold and Silver)
2. Buy an iPhone 6 16GB with a free Griffin/Incase cover and screen protector and save N23 000
3. Buy an iPhone 6 64GB with a free Griffin/Incase cover and screen protector and save N33 000 - Hero Deal
4. Buy an iPhone 6 128GB with a free Griffin/Incase cover and screen protector and save N23 000
5. Buy an iPhone 6 Plus 16GB with a free Griffin/Incase cover and screen protector and save N23 000
6. Buy an iPhone 6 Plus 64GB with a free Griffin/Incase cover and screen protector and save N33 000 - Hero Deal
7. Buy an iPhone 6 Plus 128GB with a free Griffin/Incase cover and screen protector and save N23 000

Make sure to download the Jumia App and get access to Apple deals hours before everyone else. Note that the deals will be available on the app from 5am every day before they go live on the website at 9am! You can win a N5000 voucher simply by sharing the news on Facebook, Twitter or Google Plus!

The Apple iStore is located at ikeja Shopping Mall. 
Let the countdown
begin! Click on www.jumia.com.ng/megathon/ for more information or visit www.istoreonline.ng

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Friday, May 29, 2015

Dubai Visa Has No Age Or Marriage Restrictions


Dubai Visa Has No Age Or Marriage Restrictions

Contrary to the rumors and wrong information making the rounds, there are no visa restrictions whatsoever to Dubai for Nigeria travellers below the age of 40, whether they are married or single.

According to the official portal of the Dubai Government, Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce as well as Emirates airline, visas to Dubai can easily be obtained by all persons with the valid travel documents, irrespective of their age or marital status. Some misinformation had earlier been circulated that ladies/men travelling alone should be 40years old and above; married women travelling with children should be above 40 years old; ladies/men who are less than 40years old will be allowed to travel if accompanied by someone who is above 40 and bears the same surname with them.


The Dubai Smart Government Department stated that "Dubai is tolerant and cosmopolitan and all visitors are welcome. With year-round sunshine, intriguing deserts, beautiful beaches, luxurious hotels and shopping malls, fascinating heritage attractions and a thriving business community, Dubai receives millions of leisure and business visitors each year from around the world. These visitors can benefit from a range of services and a local infrastructure that help make any trip to Dubai smooth and hassle-free."

 Nigerians are therefore encouraged to visit Dubai without any fear of age or marriage restrictions. 

 The list of Documents required to obtain a visa to Dubai include: Passports valid for at least 6 months, passport copy, Applicant’s colour photograph, Original application form (available at all Emirates Travel Hubs) in Arabic or English with addresses and contact numbers at both their originating country and in Dubai, Copy of Emirates ticket, hold documents for their next destination, have sponsor in the UAE to cover their stay or confirmed hotel reservation.

Emirates Airlines advised on three ways to apply for your UAE visa: You can apply online through the Emirates Manage a Booking tool after booking your Emirates or through the local Emirates office or through official Emirates partners.

Other rules and conditions for visa to Dubai include: The visa fees must be paid upon application, Visa fees are non-refundable, the ticket is non-refundable if the visa has been issued and utilized. Visa processing time is approximately three to four working days. All visa types are valid for 59 days from the date of issue.

Dubai has emerged as a cosmopolitan metropolis that has grown steadily to become a global city and a business and major hub. Dubai remains one of the top favourite destination of many Nigerians. And there are no age restrictions or marriage restrictions in obtaining a visa to Dubai.

For more information, please visit: http://www.emirates.com/english/plan_book/essential_information/visa_passport_information/prearranged_uae_visas.aspx. http://www.dubai.com/v/visa_requirements/ http://www.dubai-online.com/essential/immigration/.

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The Inaugural Speech of Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode As New Governor of Lagos State


BEING THE INAUGURAL ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, MR. AKINWUNMI AMBODE, GOVERNOR OF LAGOS STATE ON FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2015 AT TAFAWA BALEWA SQUARE, LAGOS

PROTOCOL:

Today, I have just performed the sacred duty of oath-taking as the Governor of Lagos State. It has pleased GOD through the good people of Lagos State, that my destiny as a little boy, born from a humble background, on the 14th day of JUNE to become the 14th Governor of our great State, Lagos is being realized.

2 I am eternally grateful to all of you. To all Lagosians,
the young and elderly, widows, physically-challenged; girls and boys, and especially, the children; who followed our musical campaign with vigour; God bless you all.

3 Permit me to acknowledge and appreciate specially all the voters that voted for me; equally appreciate those that did not and also the people that did not exercise their franchise to vote at all. We are all winners. One of the instructive lessons from this last political campaign and election is for all politicians never to take our people for granted again. I would, more than ever before; take you, the good people of Lagos, along with me, in this journey of renewed hope and prosperity at all times.

4 My appreciation goes to all our elder statesmen and women including all our senior citizens. To all our religious leaders, I say thank you. All our Muslim leaders, Christians leaders and other faiths; your prayers for Lagos State did not go unanswered.

5 I must not fail to acknowledge all our civil society organisations. The students, civil servants, labour unions, artisans, professionals, corporate Lagos, the business community, thank you very much. To all Lagosians in diaspora, foreign residents and all other stakeholders; thank you for keeping faith in the potential greatness of our State.

6 From the bottom of my heart, I greet all our traditional rulers, our Royal Fathers, Kings, Chiefs and their wives. I thank you all, most especially, the Chairman; the State Council of Obas and Chiefs, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, Oba of Lagos. We promise to continue to nurture our traditional institutions as part of our heritage.

7 To our Party Leaders and all members of our great party, The All Progressives Congress (APC); today belongs to you all. Our elected Officers, the three Distinguished Senators, Honourable Members of the House of Representatives and Members of the House of Assembly; congratulations and thank you.

8 And my Deputy; Dr. Idiat Oluranti Adebule, thank you.

9 To my family, words are not enough; My mother, who is here today, thank you for being a very caring mother to me. All my uncles, brothers and sisters; I appreciate you. To my lovely wife, Bolanle, thank you so much for your sacrifices and perseverance. God bless you always. My children, friends and loved ones and supporters; I really appreciate the enormity of sacrifices, pain, prayers and efforts. I remain eternally grateful.

10 Lastly, I speak to the two people that have shaped the history of this State in the last sixteen (16) years.

11 You are focused, dogged and hard-working, you are a visioner par excellence. You are a bridge-builder. To our leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; you have laid an enduring foundation for what we are all building on today. When the history of the political economy of Nigeria is being written, surely it would be kind to you. Thank you so much.
To our Distinguished Senator, (Mrs.) Oluremi Tinubu; your support and commitment to our State and to me personally during the election is well appreciated.

12 To the out-going Governor, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), you have fought the good fight. You came, you saw, you conquered. I have been at close quarters as a student, you as my teacher and mentor. On behalf of my family and other good people of Lagos; we say thank you. We appreciate you and your family.

13 EVERYBODY COUNTS
As we collectively face the challenge to make Lagos a better place to live in, we must recognize our strength in diversity. A common national identity where everybody counts. I shall run an open government of inclusion that will not leave anyone behind. No matter your age, sex, tribe or any other Status, as long as you reside in Lagos, we will make Lagos work for you.

14 THE NIGERIAN DREAM
Lagosians are hardworking people. Lagos is striving because of its undying entrepreneurial spirit. However we must realise that there are no short-cuts to success. To our youths, we must nurture good family values to succeed in any endeavour. I want our younger ones and children to draw some lessons from my story. Anyone of you can rise up to be the best you want to be. Your background and circumstances cannot be an obstacle to your dreams. In our country, particularly in Lagos, you can always succeed. This is the Nigerian dream where hard-work, courage, perseverance, persistence, merit and rewards pay. We must therefore embrace new thinking and be determined to succeed at all times. I am ready to encourage and nurture that dream in our children, youths and every hard-working Lagosian. We would reward merit, hard-work and loyalty to the State. The future is for those who dare to dream and find courage to pursue their dreams.

15 THE FUTURE IS NOW
We are all witnesses to the economic downturn and dwindling revenues at the national and state levels. The present economic situation has affected the financial profile of most states in the country.
The state is blessed that the foundation of its financial autonomy was designed and implemented by that visioner and our leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Thus, the state has been partially shielded from the negative trend flowing from the federal level.

For us to sustain the progressive and radical transformation on-going in the state, we have to redouble our efforts on all fronts for our commitment to excellence. While we must be creative and innovative; we are not citizens until we become responsible tax payers. I want to assure all of us that I will make your taxes work for you. You will surely get a transparent and incorruptible government that will give you good value for your taxes paid.

Creativity is the most valuable asset in any public institution. Progressive governments must reward contributors of good ideas. Therefore, wherever practicable, we shall practise government by incentives and not government by enforcement. We shall implement creative ideas and concepts that reduce the cost of running government; ideas that make life simpler and happier for our people.
I, therefore, invite you all, to join hands with me, to offer new ideas that will pull more resources to cater for the poor and needy amongst us. This will be a compassionate government.

16 DEVELOPMENT PLAN (2012 – 2025)
In the spirit of continuity, I am committed to the State Development Plan (2012 – 2025). The plan is structured under four pillars; (1) Social Development and Security; (2) Infrastructural Development; (3) Economic Development and (4) Sustainable Environment.
The challenges we face today as a State, are good enough ingredients to bring out the best of all of us. Together, we shall push forward and not look back, with our hands firmly on the plough. We would work hard to tackle poverty, ignorance and social decadence in our State.

17 PUBLIC SECTOR REFORMS
As we all know, the best practices of yesterday may not be good enough for the products of today. In this sense, we shall embark on continuous reforms in the public service. I am determined to demonstrate that the government belongs to the citizens. You have put us here as servants to serve you and not you serving us. Today we are committed to that creed.

Moving forward, the Civil Service will be strengthened and made to respond to the needs of all citizens in the same manner, quality services are rendered in the private sector.

My administration is prepared to take the decisions needed to promote merit and professionalism. To restructure where required, eliminate poor Human Resource practices and accelerate the pace of reforms in the spirit of good governance.

I want to assure the business community and corporate Lagos that the ease of doing business in Lagos will be improved upon earnestly. Lagos is open for greater business; To this end, a new office of Overseas Affairs and Investment (LAGOS GLOBAL) shall be created under the Governor’s Office.
We want you to fly into Lagos, start your business, find your way; live, work and enjoy in Lagos.
As part of our reforms, a new Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment shall be established. This would specifically address the promise I made during the campaign on employment trust fund, labour exchange and entrepreneurship. This goal, we shall pursue vigorously.

Also, the Office of Civic Engagement shall be created under the Deputy Governor’s Office to strengthen and enhance our promise on government of inclusion. Everyone must have a voice in my administration.


18 CONCLUSION
I have the political will to engage investors and stakeholders in creating the enabling environment for tourism, entertainment and arts; and iconic infrastructure for the benefit of all.
Once again, I thank the good people of Lagos for the confidence reposed in our party; both at the national and State levels. We shall not disappoint you. God bless you all.

20 God bless Lagos State

God bless Nigeria
Itesiwaju Ipinle Eko
Oje mi lo gun; Oje wa lo gun
Eko oni baje – I promise.
Thank you.

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Inaugural Speech by His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari



Inaugural speech by His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari following his swearing-in as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on 29th May, 2015


I am immensely grateful to God Who Has preserved us to witness this day and this occasion. Today marks a triumph for Nigeria and an occasion to celebrate her freedom and cherish her democracy. Nigerians have shown their commitment to democracy and are determined to entrench its culture. Our journey has not been easy but thanks to the determination of our people and strong support from friends abroad we have today a truly democratically elected government in place.

I would like to thank President Goodluck Jonathan for his display of statesmanship in setting a precedent for us that has now made our people proud to be Nigerians wherever they are. With the support and cooperation he has given to the transition process, he has made it possible for us to show the world that despite the perceived tension in the land we can be a united people capable of doing what is right for our nation. Together we co-operated to surprise the world that had come to expect only the worst from Nigeria. I hope this act of graciously accepting defeat by the outgoing President will become the standard of political conduct in the country.

I would like to thank the millions of our supporters who believed in us even when the cause seemed hopeless. I salute their resolve in waiting long hours in rain and hot sunshine to register and cast their votes and stay all night if necessary to protect and ensure their votes count and were counted. I thank those who tirelessly carried the campaign on the social media. At the same time, I thank our other countrymen and women who did not vote for us but contributed to make our democratic culture truly competitive, strong and definitive.

I thank all of you.

Having just a few minutes ago sworn on the Holy Book, I intend to keep my oath and serve as President to all Nigerians.

I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody.

A few people have privately voiced fears that on coming back to office I shall go after them. These fears are groundless. There will be no paying off old scores. The past is prologue.

Our neighbours in the Sub-region and our African brethenen should rest assured that Nigeria under our administration will be ready to play any leadership role that Africa expects of it. Here I would like to thank the governments and people of Cameroon, Chad and Niger for committing their armed forces to fight Boko Haram in Nigeria.

I also wish to assure the wider international community of our readiness to cooperate and help to combat threats of cross-border terrorism, sea piracy, refugees and boat people, financial crime, cyber crime, climate change, the spread of communicable diseases and other challenges of the 21st century.

At home we face enormous challenges. Insecurity, pervasive corruption, the hitherto unending and seemingly impossible fuel and power shortages are the immediate concerns. We are going to tackle them head on. Nigerians will not regret that they have entrusted national responsibility to us. We must not succumb to hopelessness and defeatism. We can fix our problems.

In recent times Nigerian leaders appear to have misread our mission. Our founding fathers, Mr Herbert Macauley, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Alhaji Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Malam Aminu Kano, Chief J.S. Tarka, Mr Eyo Ita, Chief Denis Osadeby, Chief Ladoke Akintola and their colleagues worked to establish certain standards of governance. They might have differed in their methods or tactics or details, but they were united in establishing a viable and progressive country. Some of their successors behaved like spoilt children breaking everything and bringing disorder to the house.

Furthermore, we as Nigerians must remind ourselves that we are heirs to great civilizations: Shehu Othman Dan fodio’s caliphate, the Kanem Borno Empire, the Oyo Empire, the Benin Empire and King Jaja’s formidable domain. The blood of those great ancestors flow in our veins. What is now required is to build on these legacies, to modernize and uplift Nigeria.

Daunting as the task may be it is by no means insurmountable. There is now a national consensus that our chosen route to national development is democracy. To achieve our objectives we must consciously work the democratic system. The Federal Executive under my watch will not seek to encroach on the duties and functions of the Legislative and Judicial arms of government. The law enforcing authorities will be charged to operate within the Constitution. We shall rebuild and reform the public service to become more effective and more serviceable. We shall charge them to apply themselves with integrity to stabilize the system.

For their part the legislative arm must keep to their brief of making laws, carrying out over-sight functions and doing so expeditiously. The judicial system needs reform to cleanse itself from its immediate past. The country now expects the judiciary to act with dispatch on all cases especially on corruption, serious financial crimes or abuse of office. It is only when the three arms act constitutionally that government will be enabled to serve the country optimally and avoid the confusion all too often bedeviling governance today.

Elsewhere relations between Abuja and the States have to be clarified if we are to serve the country better. Constitutionally there are limits to powers of each of the three tiers of government but that should not mean the Federal Government should fold its arms and close its eyes to what is going on in the states and local governments. Not least the operations of the Local Government Joint Account. While the Federal Government can not interfere in the details of its operations it will ensure that the gross corruption at the local level is checked. As far as the constitution allows me I will try to ensure that there is responsible and accountable governance at all levels of government in the country. For I will not have kept my own trust with the Nigerian people if I allow others abuse theirs under my watch.

However, no matter how well organized the governments of the federation are they can not succeed without the support, understanding and cooperation of labour unions, organized private sector, the press and civil society organizations. I appeal to employers and workers alike to unite in raising productivity so that everybody will have the opportunity to share in increased prosperity. The Nigerian press is the most vibrant in Africa. My appeal to the media today – and this includes the social media – is to exercise its considerable powers with responsibility and patriotism.

My appeal for unity is predicated on the seriousness of the legacy we are getting into. With depleted foreign reserves, falling oil prices, leakages and debts the Nigerian economy is in deep trouble and will require careful management to bring it round and to tackle the immediate challenges confronting us, namely; Boko Haram, the Niger Delta situation, the power shortages and unemployment especially among young people. For the longer term we have to improve the standards of our education. We have to look at the whole field of medicare. We have to upgrade our dilapidated physical infrastructure.

The most immediate is Boko Haram’s insurgency. Progress has been made in recent weeks by our security forces but victory can not be achieved by basing the Command and Control Centre in Abuja. The command centre will be relocated to Maiduguri and remain until Boko Haram is completely subdued. But we can not claim to have defeated Boko Haram without rescuing the Chibok girls and all other innocent persons held hostage by insurgents.

This government will do all it can to rescue them alive. Boko Haram is a typical example of small fires causing large fires. An eccentric and unorthodox preacher with a tiny following was given posthumous fame and following by his extra judicial murder at the hands of the police. Since then through official bungling, negligence, complacency or collusion Boko Haram became a terrifying force taking tens of thousands of lives and capturing several towns and villages covering swathes of Nigerian sovereign territory.

Boko Haram is a mindless, godless group who are as far away from Islam as one can think of. At the end of the hostilities when the group is subdued the Government intends to commission a sociological study to determine its origins, remote and immediate causes of the movement, its sponsors, the international connexions to ensure that measures are taken to prevent a reccurrence of this evil. For now the Armed Forces will be fully charged with prosecuting the fight against Boko haram. We shall overhaul the rules of engagement to avoid human rights violations in operations. We shall improve operational and legal mechanisms so that disciplinary steps are taken against proven human right violations by the Armed Forces.

Boko Haram is not only the security issue bedeviling our country. The spate of kidnappings, armed robberies, herdsmen/farmers clashes, cattle rustlings all help to add to the general air of insecurity in our land. We are going to erect and maintain an efficient, disciplined people – friendly and well – compensated security forces within an over – all security architecture.

The amnesty programme in the Niger Delta is due to end in December, but the Government intends to invest heavily in the projects, and programmes currently in place. I call on the leadership and people in these areas to cooperate with the State and Federal Government in the rehabilitation programmes which will be streamlined and made more effective. As ever, I am ready to listen to grievances of my fellow Nigerians. I extend my hand of fellowship to them so that we can bring peace and build prosperity for our people.

No single cause can be identified to explain Nigerian’s poor economic performance over the years than the power situation. It is a national shame that an economy of 180 million generates only 4,000MW, and distributes even less. Continuous tinkering with the structures of power supply and distribution and close on $20b expanded since 1999 have only brought darkness, frustration, misery, and resignation among Nigerians. We will not allow this to go on. Careful studies are under way during this transition to identify the quickest, safest and most cost-effective way to bring light and relief to Nigerians.

Unemployment, notably youth un-employment features strongly in our Party’s Manifesto. We intend to attack the problem frontally through revival of agriculture, solid minerals mining as well as credits to small and medium size businesses to kick – start these enterprises. We shall quickly examine the best way to revive major industries and accelerate the revival and development of our railways, roads and general infrastructure.

Your Excellencies, My fellow Nigerians I can not recall when Nigeria enjoyed so much goodwill abroad as now. The messages I received from East and West, from powerful and small countries are indicative of international expectations on us. At home the newly elected government is basking in a reservoir of goodwill and high expectations. Nigeria therefore has a window of opportunity to fulfill our long – standing potential of pulling ourselves together and realizing our mission as a great nation.

Our situation somehow reminds one of a passage in Shakespeare’s Julius Ceasar
There is a tide in the affairs of men which,
taken at the flood, leads on to fortune;
Omitted, all the voyage of their life,
Is bound in shallows and miseries.

We have an opportunity. Let us take it.

Thank you

Muhammadu Buhari
President Federal Republic of Nigeria
and Commander in-chief-of the Armed forces.


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Thursday, May 28, 2015

First Book on 2015 Presidential Election in Nigeria To Be Released Worldwide On May 29



The first book on the 2015 presidential election in Nigeria, "The Victory of Muhammadu Buhari and the Nigerian Dream" will be released worldwide on May 29 as the man of the moment President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari takes over as the new President, Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces of Federal Republic of Nigeria in a historic swearing in ceremony at the Eagles Square, Abuja. The author Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima is a prize winning writer and publisher. 

Dedicated to all the fearless patriots of united Nigeria; to all the nation builders of a New Nigeria who are believers, champions and defenders of the Nigerian Dream and to all the martyrs of the Change Revolution by peaceful election who sacrificed their precious lives for the successful election of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (retd) in Rivers State, Edo State, Kaduna State and other parts of Nigeria during the 2015 elections. 

The colourful book captures the most melodramatic moments of the presidential election campaigns of Buhari from the street to the internet, including the live mobile phone text messages sent from Rivers State during the bloody presidential election on March 28 as an All Progressives Congress (APC) member was shot and killed at a polling unit.

The book also chronicled the vitriolic attacks on Buhari by the attack dogs of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti State and Dr. Doyin Okupe, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan who are now eating their dirty words of campaign of calumny and the PDP man who wished Buhari dead, but later slumped and died.
There are articles on the significant roles played by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi and also critical analyses on the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan and the PDP.

The Internet meltdown caused by the beautiful daughter of Buhari, Zahra, the invasion of Lagos streets by the OPC thugs and finally the most colourful scenes of the presidential campaigns showing the beautiful women of APC and as Governors Rochas Okorocha of Imo State, Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State and Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi of Rivers were dancing "Shoki" at campaigns.
The book is a must read and a collector's item for all Nigerians and others, especially historians and students of political history.

 "The Victory of Muhammadu Buhari and the Nigerian Dream" will be distributed worldwide by Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Lulu and other leading booksellers. Interested distributors in Nigeria should contact the Publisher by email. publisher@nigeriansreport.com

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Wednesday, May 27, 2015

GTBank and Etisalat in Strategic Partnership to Offer New Retail Banking Service



GTBank and Etisalat in Strategic Partnership to Offer New Retail Banking Service

Guaranty Trust Bank plc, a foremost financial institution in Africa and Etisalat, one of Nigeria’s most innovative and fastest growing telecommunications company have partnered to introduce GTEasySavers, a savings account that is easy to open and easy to save; designed to enable under-banked and unbanked individuals achieve their financial goals while operating a regular bank account via their mobile phones. This strategic alliance that will enhance the service delivery of both brands, will offer customers, unparalleled lifestyle and loyalty benefits.


Registered subscribers of Etisalat network can conveniently open a GTEasySavers account by simply dialing a USSD short code–“737*0#”via their mobile phones, and a ten digit GTBank account number is sent via SMS immediately. Funding of the account can be done by Cash deposits at Etisalat Experience Centers and GTBank branches; electronic transfers from other bank accounts; Cash Deposit ATMs at GTBank branches and GT Express Agent locations.

From Left: Chief Executive Officer, Etisalat Nigeria, Matthew Willsher; Managing Director, Guaranty Trust Bank GTB , Segun Agbaje; and Chief Marketing Officer, Etisalat Nigeria, Angelone Francesco at the launch of “GTEasySavers” powered by Etisalat and GTBank at Guaranty Trust Bank Headquarters in Lagos on Tuesday, 26th May 2015.

Speaking on the partnership, the Managing Director and CEO of Guaranty Trust Bank plc, Mr. Segun Agbaje stated that “we are passionate about driving the CBN’s financial inclusion strategy in ensuring the under banked and unbanked, begin to find the propositions of banking services more attractive and convenient and then take the bold step of patronizing our numerous bank products and offerings, a passion which we fully share with Etisalat Nigeria”.

 The GTEasySavers account operates like a regular bank account and is in line with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s financial inclusion strategy for the country. Transaction limits on the account is pegged at CBN’s Tier 1 KYC status limits of N20,000 for single deposits and maximum cumulative of N200,000 account balance at any point in time. Benefits for account holders include free airtime, higher interest rates on savings and quarterly rewards.

Mr. Matthew Willshire, CEO, Etisalat. 

"This is a new chapter in the continuing growth of the banking industry made possible through GTEasySavers by GTBank and Etisalat Nigeria. Enabling account opening via an Etisalat phone will make it more convenient for individuals to carry out transactions using the transformative power of the banking system. Etisalat currently has the highest quality network in Nigeria and our partnership with GTBank is designed to add value to the lives of our customers and make banking more accessible. We will continue to offer innovative products and services in fulfillment of the promise we made to Nigeria over six years ago when we commenced operations in the country. The partnership will also begin the journey for unbanked customers from our over 22 million subscriber base," said Etisalat’s CEO Matthew Willsher.

Customers who sign up for this account need not provide any initial documentation but can upgrade the status of their accounts to Tier 3 at any time, by simply visiting any GTBank branch with additional information/documentation, including a valid identification card and utility bill.

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Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Apple iStore Offers the Biggest Deals @ Jumia's Mobile Week Megathon!


Apple iStore Offers Big Deals @ Jumia's Mobile Week Megathon

Apple iStore, (The home of everything Apple in Nigeria)is has announced it's special participation in Jumia’s Mobile Week Megathon, the one and only mobile sale of this size in Nigeria, taking place from the 1st to the 7th of June. 

iStore and Jumia partnered to offer mega deals on its finest and latest Apple products, from iPhones to iPads on iStore Online - Powered by Jumia - for seven days in a row, offering customers nationwide the chance to purchase the Apple device of their dreams at a price they won’t be able to find somewhere else.

Jumia has been revolutionizing the way of accessing the Nigerian market for mobile brands for three years now, providing trustworthy, direct and fast access to Apple products for the end customers. It is therefore natural that iStore collaborates with Jumia to bring to its customers exactly what they want, and at the best price. Apple Deals available are:

1. 10% Discount across iPad mini, iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 3. All capacities and colors where applicable (16, 32, 64 & 128GB - White, Black, Space Grey, Gold and Silver)
2. Buy an iPhone 6 16GB with a free Griffin/Incase cover and screen protector and save N23 000
3. Buy an iPhone 6 64GB with a free Griffin/Incase cover and screen protector and save N33 000 - Hero Deal
4. Buy an iPhone 6 128GB with a free Griffin/Incase cover and screen protector and save N23 000
5. Buy an iPhone 6 Plus 16GB with a free Griffin/Incase cover and screen protector and save N23 000
6. Buy an iPhone 6 Plus 64GB with a free Griffin/Incase cover and screen protector and save N33 000 - Hero Deal
7. Buy an iPhone 6 Plus 128GB with a free Griffin/Incase cover and screen protector and save N23 000

Make sure to download the Jumia App and get access to Apple deals hours before everyone else. Note that the deals will be available on the app from 5am every day before they go live on the website at 9am! You can win a N5000 voucher simply by sharing the news on Facebook, Twitter or Google Plus!

The Apple iStore is located at ikeja Shopping Mall. 

Let the countdown
begin! Click on www.jumia.com.ng/megathon/ for more information or visit www.istoreonline.ng



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