Happy 57Th Independence Anniversary Nigeria!

 Happy 57th Independence Anniversary Nigeria! 
Congratulations to all Nigerians! 
We won! 
Let us rejoice with thanksgiving to Almighty God our Father JEHOVAH! 
For He has given us victory over every adversary in Jesus' mighty name. 
HALLELUJAH!

Social Climbing: Executives Rank Facebook First

Social Climbing: Executives Rank Facebook First 
Survey Reveals Preferred Social Media Platforms Among Creative Managers and Workers 

 MENLO PARK, Calif., Sept. 5, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Whether for business or pleasure, Facebook reigns supreme among managers and employees, according to new research from staffing firm The Creative Group. When asked which social media platform they would choose if limited to one for both professional and personal use, the top response among advertising and marketing executives (44 percent) and workers (58 percent) was Facebook. LinkedIn came in second, cited by 17 percent of creative managers and 13 percent of professionals.
Click here to read more.

Amina Mohammed Meets Luis Alfonso de Alba

Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed (left) meets Luis Alfonso de Alba, Vice-Minister for Latin America and the Caribbean of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Mexico.

UN Photo/Kim Haughton 22 September 2017 United Nations, New York Photo # 735775

Every State in Nigeria, and Abuja Needs A Film Commission

Two major drivers of a modern film industry are missing in the Nigerian film industry (including Nollywood and Kannywood) and they are the absence of film markets and film commissions. And without them, Nigeria is losing millions of dollars every year and the film industry will remain underdeveloped. But before starting a Nigerian film market, every state in Nigeria, including Abuja needs a film commission.
Presently there is no single functional film commission in Nigeria, because Nigeria does not have any film commissioner. You cannot have a film commission without a certified film commissioner.

The United States of America has the largest number of film commissions in the world with one or more in every state.

President Bill Clinton And James Patterson's Upcoming Novel THE PRESIDENT IS MISSING To Be Adapted Into Series By SHOWTIME®

President Bill Clinton And James Patterson's Upcoming Novel THE PRESIDENT IS MISSING To Be Adapted Into Series By SHOWTIME®

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 22, 2017  /PRNewswire/ -- Today, SHOWTIME announced it has acquired the rights to adapt into a series THE PRESIDENT IS MISSING, based on the highly anticipated novel by President Bill Clinton and bestselling author James Patterson set to be published in 2018. In the book, President Clinton and Patterson tell the startling story of a sitting U.S. president's disappearance, with the level of detail that only someone who has held the office can know – generating a powerful, one-of-a-kind thriller. Though fictional, the story brings to life the pressures and realities of the most important position in the world. The announcement was made today by David Nevins, President and CEO, Showtime Networks Inc.


(PRNewsfoto/Showtime Networks Inc.)...
"I'm really enjoying writing this book and working with Jim," said President Bill Clinton. "And I can't wait to see SHOWTIME bring the characters to life."

"Bringing THE PRESIDENT IS MISSING to SHOWTIME is a coup of the highest order," Nevins said. "The pairing of President Clinton with fiction's most gripping storyteller promises a kinetic experience, one that the book world has salivated over for months and that now will dovetail perfectly into a politically relevant, character-based action series for our network."

Stephanie Linus Takes 'Dry' To the United Nations General Assembly

STEPHANIE LINUS TAKES 'DRY' TO THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY

It’s been a busy week for #Nollywood diva, filmmaker, philanthropist and UNFPA Ambassador,  Stephanie Linus as she joined other world leaders, policy makers and key stakeholders for strategic meetings at the 72nd United Nations General Assembly currently taking place in New York, USA.

This high profile event which has been graced by world leaders such as United States of America President Donald Trump, and Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari is the main deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the United Nations comprising of 193 Member States. In her capacity as the UNFPA Ambassador for Maternal Health in West and Central Africa, Mrs Linus has reaffirmed her commitment to ending Fistula by mobilizing the support and commitment needed to rid the world of Fistula once and for all.

The actress also recorded another milestone as her advocacy movie on fistula awareness, DRY, was screened at one of the events in an audience comprising of several African leaders, first ladies, health experts and policy makers.

"Black Girl Magic" and Brand Loyalty is Propelling Total Black Buying Power Toward $1.5 Trillion by 2021

NIELSEN REPORT: With 67% Growth in Business Startups and 64% of High School Grads Going Straight to College, "Black Girl Magic" and Brand Loyalty is Propelling Total Black Buying Power Toward $1.5 Trillion by 2021

First Museum Celebrating the Global Advertising Industry Founded in New York City

The Museum of Advertising Founded in NYC 

NEW YORK, Sept. 21, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The first museum dedicated to celebrating the global advertising industry has been founded in New York City. Exhibits will feature historical works of all mediums to explore the intersection of creativity, culture and commerce.

"The advertising industry is constantly focused on the future, and our changing media landscape. What we don't do as well is preserve the work which is so ephemeral, and recognize the innovations made in communication, design, and media." Museum Founding Director Glenn Pajarito said. "Advertising also transcends commercial marketing and has influenced product innovations, influenced politics, shaped cultural trends, educated and entertained over generations across the world."

Chinese AI Startup Yi+ Raises US$15 Million in Series B Funding

Chinese AI startup Yi+ raises US$15 million in Series B funding

BEIJING, Sept. 21, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Beijing-based startup Yi+ (www.yijia.ai), which uses computer vision and artificial intelligence to provide intelligent media and marketing solutions, has recently obtained US$15 million in Series B funding.

The round was led by Haitong Securities, with participation from BRJ Group and an investment fund under the Bank of Beijing. This brings Yi+'s total funding to overUS$25 million, including a Series A funding from Alibaba back in 2015. The startup's new capital will be used on research and development, product commercialization and entry into new global markets.

Full Transcript of the Speech By President Buhari at the 72nd Session of UN General Assembly

STATEMENT DELIVERED BY HIS EXCELLENCY MUHAMMADU BUHARI,
PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA AT THE GENERAL DEBATE OF THE 72ND SESSION OF UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY, IN NEW YORK,
ON TUESDAY, 19 SEPTEMBER 2017.

Mr. President,
Fellow Heads of State and Government,
Mr. Secretary-General,
Distinguished Delegates,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

On behalf of my country, Nigeria, I congratulate you Mr. President on your election and Mr. Gutteres on his first General Assembly outing as our Secretary-General. I assure you both of my country’s solidarity and cooperation. You will indeed need the cooperation of all member States as we are meeting during extra-ordinarily troubled and dangerous times. Let me also thank former Secretary-General Mr. Ban ki Moon for his service to the United Nations and wish him peaceful retirement.

World Hunger Again On the Rise, Driven by Conflict and Climate Change - New UN Report

World Hunger Again On the Rise, Driven by Conflict and Climate Change - New UN Report

GENEVA, 15 September 2017 / PRN Africa / -- After steadily declining for over a decade, global hunger is on the rise again, affecting 815 million people in 2016, or 11 per cent of the global population, says a new edition of the annual United Nations report on world food security and nutrition released today. At the same time, multiple forms of malnutrition are threatening the health of millions worldwide.

The increase – 38 million more people than the previous year – is largely due to the proliferation of violent conflicts and climate-related shocks, according to The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2017.

Program Started by Dickinson College President Margee Ensign Now an Educational Haven for Escaped Boko Haram Refugees

Program Started by Dickinson College President Margee Ensign Now an Educational Haven for Escaped Boko Haram Refugees

CARLISLE, Pa., Sept. 15, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A program established inNigeria by Dickinson President Margee Ensign today welcomed more than 100 young women who until recently had been held captive by the terrorist group Boko Haram. Ensign started the New Foundation School (NFS) in 2014 at the American University of Nigeria (AUN) in Yola where she served as president during the height of Boko Haram's terrorist insurgency.

Inclusive and Sustainable Development Key To Prevent Violent Extremism – Deputy UN Chief

Inclusive and Sustainable Development Key To Prevent Violent Extremism – Deputy UN Chief

NEW YORK, 18 September 2017 / PRN Africa / -- Noting that sustainable development and sustainable peace mutually reinforce one another, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed called for greater investments in basic services and in building equitable societies.

Speaking at the event, 'Rebuilding Shattered Lives and Communities: Chibok and Yazidi Girls and Women,' Ms. Mohammed said the atrocities against them require immediate and compassionate care, and comprehensive services.

New Case Study Details How to Deploy Successful Agency Banking in Africa

New Case Study Details How to Deploy Successful Agency Banking in Africa 

WASHINGTON, Sept. 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, FINCA International, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, released a case studyto highlight FINCA's journey in deploying agency banking in Africa over the past four years.  The case study outlines ten strategic, operational and technical learnings that other finance and microfinance institutions can consider when creating or building upon a similar program.

David Oyelowo, Warren Moon and Kevin K.O. Olusola To Headline GEANCO Foundation Hollywood Gala

David Oyelowo.

Acclaimed Actor David Oyelowo, NFL Hall of Famer Warren Moon and Pentatonix's Kevin K.O. Olusola To Headline GEANCO Foundation Hollywood Gala 

GEANCO's annual Hollywood benefit will raise money for urgent health and education programs in Nigeria

 Warren Moon.

Kevin K.O. Olusola.

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 19, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The GEANCO Foundation, which saves and transforms lives in Africa, will hold its annual star-studded Hollywood fundraiser on Tuesday, October 3, at Spectra in the Pacific Design Center. Each year, GEANCO hosts this benefit to rally support for vulnerable women and children in Nigeria. Golden Globe nominee and GEANCO's 2015 Global Promise Award recipient David Oyelowo (Selma, Interstellar, Queen of Katwe) will host the event alongside NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Warren Moon. Three-time Grammy winner Kevin K.O. Olusola of the multi-platinum musical group Pentatonix will open the program with a special musical performance.

Orthodox Jews to Protest TODAY Against Netanyahu in Front of the United Nations

Orthodox Jews to Protest TODAY Against Netanyahu in Front of the United Nations 

NEW YORK, Sept. 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Thousands of members ofNew York's Orthodox Jewish community, organized by the Rabbinical Alliance of the USA, plan to protest against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who arrived to address the UN General Assembly this week. The demonstration will be held in Dag Hammarskjold Plaza in Manhattan, 47th Street between 1st and 2ndAvenues, TODAY Tuesday September 19 at 4:30 PM. The entrance to the park will be from 2nd Avenue only and their will by a designated tent for the members of the press.

The Incorruptible Nigerian Senator Who Had No Car

"I Was Ridiculed For Returning Home A Poor Senator."
~ Prof. Wande Abimbola

I was the Senate leader between November 1992 and November 1993 when the late Sanni Abacha ousted us. But the Senate I led was not paid. Only N5,000 was paid to each of us to visit our constituency once in a month. We were all lodged and fed free at the Hilton Hotel. I have said it many times that we were not paid a dime.

Our problems are the people and not the politicians. We vote them to go and steal and bring home the loot. When Abacha drove us out, I came to my house in Oyo. That is my only house in Nigeria. I had no car, so I took a bus and arrived home at 2am. I actually had two Mercedes Benz cars that were at home for 15 years before I gave them out. I was using taxis to go out.

I went to Lagos twice in danfo (commercial bus) as a senator. On one occasion, I sat in the front seat. We entered Lagos at 5.30am. In the bus, people were talking about me. They said that I went to Abuja and I returned a poor man taking taxis each time I went out. One of them said that people like me who could not steal should not be voted for.

When the bus stopped, I looked back and greeted them. I introduced myself to them and they were shocked. The people make the politicians thieves. I don’t cherish material things. My father built the house I live in in 1918 after he returned from the World War. I only built more houses in the compound to be comfortable. That is all I have.

Source
http://punchng.com/i-was-ridiculed-for-returning-home-a-poor-senator-prof-wande-abimbola/.

"The Victory of Muhammadu Buhari and the Nigerian Dream: My Testimony on the 2015 Presidential Election".
Click here to get the book on Lulu.
Click here to get the book on Amazon.

12 Countries in the Morocco-Nigeria Gas Pipeline Project To Meet in Casablanca

Moroccan Minister of Energy, Mines, and Sustainable Development to Welcome African Energy Leaders to Casablanca This November

LONDON, September 13, 2017  /PRNewswire/ --

Two energy forums focusing on gas and renewable energy in Casablanca this November have secured the endorsement of the Honourable Minister Aziz Rabbah, Minister of Energy, Mines, Sustainable Development in Morocco.

The Africa Renewable Energy Forum (ARF) and the preceding Gas Options: North & West Africa meeting will take place from 29th November - 1st December 2017 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Casablanca.

Former President Barack Obama To Join Bill and Melinda Gates and Other Leaders at Goalkeepers Event in New York

Former President Barack Obama To Join Bill and Melinda Gates and Other Leaders at Goalkeepers Event in New York

Inaugural Gates Foundation Events to Highlight Progress Against Global Poverty and Disease, Showcase Innovative Solutions to Advance the Global Goals.
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New MINISO Lifestyle Store Opens with Cheers in Lagos

New MINISO Lifestyle Store Opens with Cheers in Lagos

Star power of #Nollywood diva and philanthropist Stephanie Linus, the brand ambassador of #MINISO in Nigeria with top Nollywood stars, Uti Nwachukwu and Bryan Okwara, Mr. Nigeria 2007; beauty queen, Unoaku Anyadike, winner of the 2015 edition of the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) pageant and the mesmerizing foremost female talking drummer in the world, Aralola Olumuyiwa, aka "Ara" thrilled hundreds of people Sunday afternoon at the opening of JAPANESE retail giant, MINISO in Lagos city at the Circle Mall in Lekki Peninsula 2.

The excitement of the first shoppers at the new MINISO lifestyle store was increased by more unforgettable moments of entertainment in the fantastic free style choreography by a group of energetic young male and female dancers who took over the premises in the mall. There were other side attractions of a painted clown and performers on stilts towering over the crowd. Lucky people, including yours sincerely won free shopping vouchers to purchase any of the attractive products in the MINISO lifestyle store. We had cocktails with cakes and shopping continued. Atane Colette, the Marketing Communications Manager of MINISO Lifestyle Nigeria must be a very happy lady for organizing the most entertaining event to launch MINISO in Africa's largest megacity.

First Ladies, Experts, and Activists Address Impact of Terrorism on Women and Children

First Ladies, Experts, and Activists Address Impact of Terrorism on Women and Children
Joint Action Meeting will take place during the Global Hope Summit to mobilize stakeholders and develop solutions

NEW YORK, Sept. 7, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --The Global Hope Coalition, in cooperation with UNESCO, brings together a group of first ladies and other invested leaders to address the effects of terrorism and violent extremism on women and children. The joint action meeting will take place September 18th, 2017 at the New York Public Library in New York City, at the onset of the United Nations General Assembly week.

Participants are expected to issue a statement urging the international community to take concrete and urgent measures to deal with a crisis that could lead to a lost generation across the Middle East and Africa, with catastrophic consequences.

Scheduled speakers and guests include: Jeanette Kagame, First Lady of Rwanda; Keïta Aminata Maiga, First Lady of Mali; Akie Abe, First Lady of Japan; Irina Bokova, Director General of UNESCO; Cherie Blair, Founder of Cherie Blair Foundation; Wided Bouchamaoui, President of the Tunisian Confederation of Industry, Trade and Handicrafts and 2013 Nobel Peace Prize laureate; Alexandra Chen, mental health and psychosocial advisor to UN agencies on the Syria crisis; Hafsat Mohammed, community organizer working against Boko Haram in northern Nigeria; and Denis Mekwege, gynecologist, Founder of the Panzi Hospital in Bukavu, D.R. of Congo. Two recognized researchers from the Experts Committee of the Global Hope Coalition – Prof. Phyllis Magrab and Farah Pandith, former State Department Special Representative to Muslim Communities – will also speak at the meeting. UNESCO's director for gender equality, Saniye Gulser Corat, will moderate.

Hajj 2017: Women Attend in Large Numbers

Hajj 2017: Women Attend in Large Numbers


JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, Sept. 6, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The annual Hajj pilgrimage unites millions of people in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula - the birthplace of Islam. This year, the Kingdom has welcomed more than 2.35 million people from every culture and corner of the globe, including a large number of women. A core value of the pilgrimage is equality of the sexes and millions of women have performed Hajj, and for this year, women pilgrims are at a near equal number to men.

Photo - http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/551740/MOCI_Hajj_Pilgrimage.jpg

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click:
https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/8173053-women-peace-pilgrims/

Additional information: http://www.saudiwelcomestheworld.org
Website: http://www.cic.org.sa

Twitter: @CICSaudi

Video - https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/8173053-women-peace-pilgrims/

SOURCE The Ministry of Culture and Information (MOCI)

CONTACT: For any queries, members of the media can contact: The Center for International Communication (CIC), Ministry of Culture and Information, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Telephone: +966 53 839 3535 Email: cic@moci.gov.sa



BRICS Potential Huge, But Needs More Work

BRICS Potential Huge, But Needs More Work


Wang Xiaohui, Editor-in-Chief of China.org.cn: BRICS potential huge, but needs more work.

BEIJING, Sept. 1, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- A newly released report by China.org.cn on the BRICS and its upcoming summit in Xiamen, China.

The BRICS cooperation mechanism has undergone 10 years of development, during which the acronym has grown from a concept invented by an economist from Goldman Sachs Group Inc. of the United States into a multilateral cooperative mechanism exerting a great influence on world politics, economic and security affairs.

In recent years, Western media have been harping on a regular theme known as "fading of the BRICS". In fact, a one-sided discussion on whether the worth of "BRICS" is 24 or only 14 carat gold doesn't have much practical significance. The five member states of BRICS are not five gold bars preserved in a bank vault, but comprise a multilateral cooperation mechanism of differing, independent economies. Influenced by many factors at home and abroad, fluctuations and changes within a certain range are only to be expected. So, we need to focus on the development trend and potential of the BRICS, as well as the challenges it faces.