A Nigerian newspaper and Online version of the Vanguard, a daily publication in Nigeria covering Niger delta, general national news, politics, business, energy, sports, entertainment, fashion,lifestyle human interest stories, etc
Abeokuta – Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reiterated that agric business is key to the development of the country.
Obasanjo made this known at the 2016 Independence Day programme organised by the Useful Youth, Owu Baptist Church, Abeokuta on Saturday.
He spoke on the topic "Nigeria Development for Nigerians by Nigerians".Obasanjo
The former president said that agric-business was the only area the nation could beat development and generate millions of employment if taken seriously.
"Agric business also includes manufacturing because when you take cassava and you turn it to starch, that's manufacturing and when you take your starch and you turn it to glucose that's manufacturing.
"When you take your Cocoa and you turn it to Cocoa powder, that's manufacturing, when you turn Cocoa powder to chocolate, that's also manufacturing.
"That's part of the value chain in agric-business and that is a very key aspect of our development, agric business adding value to whatever commodities we produced and creating job for millions of our people particularly the youths, "he said.
Obasanjo also identified security, transportation, communication, information trade, peace and employment as elements of development in any nation.
He said that all these items had to be taken seriously for the growth of the nation , adding that the development of the country should be a collective responsibility
On the independence celebration, he said Nigerians who had lived to witness the 56th independence day celebration should give glory to God.
"Whoever that has lived to witness the celebration of today, we should thank God, things are not what they should be but we should pray that next year will be better than this year.
"We thank God for those who are alive, we prayed for the souls of those who have laboured for these country and who have passed on rest in perfect peace.
Willian and Diego Costa scored twice in six second-half minutes as Chelsea won 2-0 at Hull City on Saturday to claim a first win in four Premier League games.
Willian struck in the 61st minute after Chelsea launched one of a series of increasingly dangerous counter-attacks.
Costa’s pass picked out the Brazilian, who checked, putting his defender out of the game in the process, before curling an unstoppable shot into the top-right corner of the Hull goal.
Six minutes later the game was put beyond Hull’s reach in similar fashion.
Having powered into the area, Nemanja Matic saw a shot blocked by Curtis Davies, but Costa latched onto the rebound to bend a shot past Hull goalkeeper David Marshall for his sixth goal in seven games.
Victory provisionally lifted Chelsea to sixth place in the table and saw Hull drop to 15th.
Yet Hull had forced Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois into the only two saves of significance in the first half and, in between, gave as good as they got against a club they have not beaten in 28 years.
After just four minutes, and a David Luiz foul on Dieumerci Mbokani, Robert Snodgrass’s terrific 25-yard free-kick forced the Chelsea keeper into a twisting save as he turned the ball over his crossbar.
In first-half injury time, Ryan Mason gathered the ball 25 yards from goal and unleashed a strong shot that Courtois appeared to see late as he forced it behind for a corner.
Chelsea started with a three-man defence, a tactic adopted by manager Antonio Conte in the second half of last weekend’s 3-0 defeat by Arsenal, which meant Branislav Ivanovic lost his place.
The move saw winger Victor Moses make his first start for the club since May 2013 at wing-back, underlining Conte’s desperation to end his team’s recent run of poor form.
– Kante miss –
Willian looked a lively performer for the visitors as he attempted to spark them into some attacking life and on 16 minutes the Brazilian just missed the far post with a low, driven shot.
Moses also might have won a penalty on another day, with replays suggesting he had been tripped by Adama Diomande.
But for all Chelsea’s possession, there was not a serious moment of concern for Marshall in the Hull goal over the opening 45 minutes.
His first real test came in the opening minutes of the second period as Eden Hazard turned his man just inside the home half and darted towards goal before dispatching a curling shot that Marshall diverted over.
The ensuing corner was only half-cleared by the home side and N’Golo Kante latched onto the rebound with a low shot that Marshall smothered easily.
The pressure was mounting, with Chelsea looking particularly threatening on the counter-attack, through Costa and the pairing of Willian and Hazard behind him.
That combination should have brought about an opening goal on 58 minutes.
Kante’s through-ball was perfectly weighted and allowed Costa to round Marshall before shooting goalwards, the ball passing through the legs of Sam Clucas and striking the foot of the post.
The rebound fell kindly for Kante, but the former Leicester City midfielder hurried his follow-up attempt, sending the ball high and wide.
With Chelsea looking more and more menacing a goal soon followed and matters might have worsened for the hosts three minutes later as Costa saw an 18-yard shot parried by Marshall following another break.
Costa, with a wild shot from the corner of the six-yard box, and Oscar, whose low attempt was pushed away by Marshall, might have further extended the visitors’ lead in the closing minutes.
Enugu – Rev. Innocent Chukwujindu of St. Paul Anglican Church, China Town, Enugu, has said that the country will survive the current economic challenges in spite of the seeming doubtful circumstances.
Speaking during an Independence Day mass wedding in the church, Chukwujindu said that the current challenges were not worse than most situations that had come and gone.
He said that Nigerians had proven to be resilient in the face of similar situations, adding that what was needed were clear-cut policies to navigate the country out of the woods.
The cleric called on Nigerians to support the current administration by embracing its policies aimed at correcting the wrongs of the past.
"Nigeria is surrounded by so many doubtful circumstances but if we have confidence in God, the challenges we see today will soon be gone.
"The country is not a mistake. God knows about the creation and He has plans for it but we need to go back to God.
"In years to come when we must have gotten out of the current situation, Nigeria will be the best because our children will learn from our mistakes," he said.
Chukwujindu urged the couples to always remember the importance of the Independence Day in their lives.
"The wedding is not a coincidence to have been organised today. It is to serve as a memorial for the couples and Nigerians that Independence Day commemorates the joy we have to be free from colonialism," he said.
The four couples were wedded to mark the Independence Day celebrations.
Abakaliki – Gov. David Umahi of Ebonyi has ordered that death sentences on 14 prisoners of Ebonyi origin in various prisons be commuted to life imprisonment.
The governor gave the order on Saturday in Abakaliki during activities to mark the 56th Independence Day and 20th year of Ebonyi creation.
According to the governor, 32 inmates from the state have also been granted unconditional pardon for offences which they were jailed.
"The order is to the comptrollers of Enugu, Abakaliki and Afikpo prisons and pursuant to powers of Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, conferred on me as the state governor. "These decisions were reached after due consultation with the state's Committee on Prerogative of mercy and other enabling powers and this serves as the official warrant," he said.
Umahi explained that the effective date of the decisions was Oct.1.
He said those whose death sentences were annulled included Igantius Ochioso, Paul Ominyi, Nnachi Asula, Sunday Ukpai, Onyebuchi Eze and Ikechukwu Nwafor.Umahi
"Those who were pardoned unconditionally include Ogbuzuru Odoh, Ogbonnia Odom, Shadrack Eboko, Ezi Ekum, Nduisi Nwodo, Paul Una, Musa Bako, Chikwu Ndukwe, Mgbeleke Oduma, Ugo Ogbuba, among others.
"The state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Augustine Nwankwagu, is advised to submit report on the released inmates' conduct to my office, to ascertain whether they still pose threat to society," he said.
The governor also announced a five per cent increase in workers' salaries with effect from Oct.1 and thanked labour leaders in the state for their understanding and support in reaching the decision.
"The government has also recalled the sacked workers of the state College of Education, Ikwo, and the 37 workers of the proscribed Ebonyi State Environmental Protection Agency
"We would also release workers' promotion results and look into the issue of pension and gratuity which totals over five billion naira," he said.
The governor also noted that the government would inaugurate a department 'of tomorrow' that would rehabilitate indigenes engaged in various forms of menial jobs across the country.
"We would be placing advertorials in national media on Tuesday, urging them to return to the state to learn the assemblage, repairs and maintenance of equipment such as tractors, tricycles, among others," he said.
Bishop Christopher Edeh, Methodist Bishop of Enugu Diocese and Chairman of the occasion, urged Nigerians to leave in peace to fulfil the aspirations of its founding fathers.
"Ebonyi people should tow the path of righteousness, rally around its leaders to enable it meet its developmental objectives as a young state," he said.
The occasion was witnessed by past leaders of the state, National and State Assembly members, among other stakeholders.
The occasion also witnessed march pasts by selected schools, labour unions, security agencies as well as the cutting of the anniversary cake,.
The governor also inspected a guard of honour mounted by security agencies.
Lafia – Gov. Tanko Al-Makura of Nasarawa on Saturday granted amnesty to a 17-year-old nursing mother and eight other prison inmates on grounds of age.
Al-Makura granted the pardon when he visited Lafia Prison as part of the activities to celebrate 20 years of the creation of the state and the country's 56th Independence Day celebration.
The governor, who was represented on the occasion by the Attorney-General and Commissioner of Justice, Alhaji Yusuf Usman said that the pardon was in accordance with the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
He said that the gesture was part of the activities lined up for the country's 56th independence celebration and the 20th anniversary of the creation of Nasarawa.
Al-Makura added that the exercise was carried out based on the recommendations of the committee on prerogative of mercy.
The governor said the gesture was to decongest the prisons and give the inmates a sense of belonging and the opportunity to contribute their quota positively to national development.
"Today, on behalf of the Nasarawa State Government, I am freeing nine inmates from the five federal prisons in the state.
"This is part of the state government's support to President Muhammadu Buhari's efforts in decongesting the prisons as well as to make the inmates responsible members of the society," Al-Makura said
He reiterated his administration's commitment to partner with the ministry of interior in improving the conditions of the prisons.
The governor said that he was particularly touched by the case of the nursing mother who gave birth to the baby 10 months ago.
He said that since the offence was committed by the mother, the innocent baby who did not know anything should not be in the prison.
"The 17-year-old nursing mother, Justina Musa, who was convicted for joining a secret society, was reprieved of her one year sentence under the prerogative of mercy, while eight other inmates are at ages ranging from 12 to 20 years," he said.
In her brief comments, Justina Musa said: "I am very grateful to Gov. Al-Makura for setting me free from the prison to go and take care of my baby. I promise not to go back to what brought me to prison."
Earlier in his remark, the Comptroller of Prisons in the state, Mr Ekwere Ekanem, said that the Lafia Prison was designed to accommodate 300 inmates but was currently congested with 614.
He explained that out of the number, only 92 were convicted while 523 were awaiting trial.
Ekanem appealed to the state government and other relevant agencies, especially the police and the ministry of justice, to speed up the discharge of criminal cases.
He added that a total of 1,690 inmates were currently in the six prisons in the state.
Of the nine inmates granted amnesty by the governor, six were serving their terms in Lafia while three were in Wamba.
By AbdulSalam Muhammad KANO – Kano state government has declared Tuesday, October 4th as Public Holiday to mark the beginning of the new Islamic calendar 1438 A.H.
The Islamic New Year is on the first day of Muharram, the first month in the lunar Islamic calendar.
The state government had on Friday, 30th September, 2016 organized a prayer session at the Government House Mosque in Kano, to usher in the new Islamic year, which coincided with activities marking the nation's 56th anniversary celebration.
In the same vein, the state governor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, accompanied by top government officials, visited some hospitals in the state capital to show sympathy with the sick and to prayer for their speedy recuperation, in line with Islamic etiquette.
Governor Ganduje urges Muslims to use the period of the holiday, especially the blessed days of the 9th and 10th of the month of Muharram to ease the socio – economic challenges facing the country and to strengthen our leaders to steer it to greater heights.
Mr. Anthony Olatujoye is a legal practitioner, and Managing Partner, Difgland Partners, a law firm based in Abuja. Before his foray into private practice, he worked with the Central Bank of Nigeria for 31 years and retired as Legal Adviser/Director, Legal Services. In this interview, he talks about the economy and restructuring among other national issues. Excerpts:
What is your reaction to the recent calls for the restructuring of the country?
It is a call in the right direction. Restructuring is long overdue. Some of the challenges facing us today would have been needless had we restructured long ago. Restructuring is about effecting or bringing about changes that will help unify us together as a nation. For instance we should have been implementing fiscal federalism long time ago. By doing this, the problems we are facing now as a result of global drop in oil price would not have had devastating effects on us as it is doing now. Our over-dependence on oil has made us to be lazy, and we are paying the price now.
Is Nigeria not practising true federalism?
It is true we are a federal state, in practice, Nigeria has become more or less a unitary state, and that is why all the 36 states have to depend on the government at the centre, for monthly allocations. Under a true federal practice, states are supposed to enjoy some autonomy from the Federal Government. Not only that, states are also expected to develop some resources in their domains in order to generate revenue, but this has not been so. Now that oil price has crashed and many states can no longer pay their workers salaries, everybody is now talking about the need for fiscal federalism. The reality we must face today is that if we don't restructure, we will only be postponing the evil day.
But the impression some people are giving is that restructuring will lead to the break-up of the country.
Anthony Olatujoye
Those saying this are mis-informing the people and it is unfortunate. No society is perfect, even the United States of America, there are still complaints and calls for reviews of their system from time to time as a way of unifying the people. Restructuring can never lead to Nigeria's break-up, rather it will help to strengthen the country. Today, you have agitations all across the country.
The Boko Haram insurgency is here, you also have the Biafra agitations in the South-East, so also is the Niger-Delta Avengers wreaking havoc in the South-South, bombing oil pipe-lines and yet, people are saying we don't need restructuring. It is by restructuring that we can address these problems. I will advise President Muhammadu Buhari not only to listen to the agitations for Restructuring but take steps towards restructuring Nigeria. How can Nigeria break up when you listen to grievances of people and you then take steps to address the issues they have raised?
We should not pretend as if all is well. Our leaders should try to address some of these agitations. Today what we are practicing in Nigeria is nothing but a caricature of federalism. Until we do the needful, long lasting peace may continue to elude us. For those who are afraid that true practice of federalism will affect some states especially those that are not oil producing, I say they have nothing to fear.
There is no state in Nigeria that does not have one mineral resource or the other that can be harnessed and exploited for commercial purposes. What about cash crops? In the First Republic when we were still practicing true federalism, Nigeria was well known as a leading country for cash crops. In Kano you had groundnut pyramids and cotton, in the South-East you had palm-oil and coal, for the Mid-West and South-West you had palm-oil, rubber and cocoa. At a point Nigeria was the leading cocoa producing nation in the world. But what do you have today? Our over-dependence on oil has put us into trouble.
Between 27 of 36 states are owing workers salary due to fall in oil revenue. How do you react to this?
It is unfortunate, it is sad . A labourer, as the saying goes, deserves his wage. If the 36 states have not been over-dependent on the central government in Abuja, this ugly situation would have been averted. The states should have been in-ward looking instead of going cap in hand to Abuja every now and then to solicit for funds. States, as autonomous structures within a federal structure, should be less dependent on the Federal Government. They should have avenues for generating revenues.
So, what is the way out? Is bail-out from the Federal Government the answer?
The answer is simple. States should look for ways to boost their internally generated revenue IGR . Other states should emulate Lagos State which generates about N30 billion IGR monthly. There is no state in Nigeria that cannot generate sufficient funds for its upkeep. States can also go back to agriculture, back to farming. We should start mass production of cash crops like palm-oil, groundnut, rubber and cotton. If we do this, states will become financially buoyant.
People have accused some state governors of not being prudent in the management of monthly allocations they receive to run their states, what is your view on this?
There is a need for monitoring of how state finances are utilized by the governors. The anti-corruption agencies can be strengthened and empowered to monitor governors on their spending habits. Anyone found to be corrupt can then be put on trial after serving out his term. There is need for financial sanity in our system. Another aspect is the issue of local government autonomy. Autonomy of local governments should be respected. Many state governors have tampered with LG's autonomy and their funds. They divert funds meant for development in local government areas for other uses. This is not only illegal but also unconstitutional.
The issue of what should be done with recovered looted funds has also become a subject of debate. In your view, how should the money be utilised?
Part of the money should be used to fix the epileptic power sector. If the power sector stabilizes, a lot of other things would sort itself out; companies and factories that have been moribund will bounce back to life, and job opportunities will be created. A lot of things that were dead before will come back alive. Part of the recovered looted fund can also be injected into the economy to help as part of efforts to pull the nation out of economic recession.
What is your assessment of the war against corruption by Buhari's government?
It is a right step in the right direction. Looters should be regarded as economic saboteurs. They should not be treated with kids gloves. Aside recovering money they stole, they should also be sanctioned, at least to serve as a deterrent. There are penalties in our law books for looters. However, the trial of suspects must be seen to be free and fair. They must be given fair trial.
One thing I would emphasize is that government needs to put measures in place to address problems of hunger, poverty, and unemployment. Nigeria is a blessed nation,we only need the right leaders to help us attain greatness.
How can Nigeria attain greatness?
We need a new crop of leaders who are selfless and dedicated. We need leaders who will no longer see public office as an avenue to loot but to serve. Nigeria is destined to be great, we need men and women of honor, who will henceforth see public office as an avenue to serve and not to loot public treasury.
Kwara State Commissioner for Works and Transport, Alhaji Aro Yahaya, has explained the state government's decision to embark on the construction of Geri-Alimi Diamond Underpass, Ilorin, the state capital, which was flagged off on Tuesday by Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed.
Speaking on the need for the Split Diamond Interchange, Yahaya said the project became necessary in view of the growing population of the state capital, resulting in traffic situation within and around Geri-Alimi.
He added that the project will meet the needs of current and future road users in the state.
The Commissioner explained that the influx of people into Kwara, particularly Ilorin, prompted the state government to come up with the idea of the Split Diamond Underpass to ease human and vehicular movement within the metropolis.
He said that as the first contact for the people visiting Ilorin from the southwestern part of the country, traffic at Geri-Alimi usually gets busy especially in the morning and evening thereby causing gridlock for hours.
Yahaya stated that the project, when completed, will not only decongest the chaotic traffic situation along the axis but also add aesthetic value to the area, as it is an engineering and architectural masterpiece.
According to him, a police post, traffic light system and a Close Circuit Television Camera (CCTV) will be provided at the roundabout to ensure 24-hours adequate security in and around the area.
He added that a walkway for pedestrians will also be provided while the road that extends to General Hospital, Ilorin and the airport will also be upgraded.
The Commissioner said that the project, which is in three phases, is expected to be completed in the next 18 months. He disclosed that the state government will unveil more developmental projects in coming weeks.
Yahaya also revealed that the asphalt plant recently acquired by the Kwara government will be commissioned next week, after which the Ministry of Works will embark on massive rehabilitation and reconstruction of major roads across the state.
As Nigeria marked its 56th Independence Anniversary, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Saturday said there was no better time for Nigerians to unite to rescue the nation's economy from the stranglehold of recession.
Governor Ambode, who spoke at the Independence Parade held at the Police College Ground in Ikeja, said the fact that the nation has remained united despite visible challenges in the last 56 years of sovereignty was a lot to be thankful for.
He said the never say die spirit of resilience, resourcefulness and determination that Nigerians display to succeed in all spheres of human endeavour was well recognised and acknowledged all over the globe, saying that the nation has great potentials to rank among the most prosperous countries in the world.
Representative of Lagos State Governor & Deputy Governor, Dr. (Mrs.) Oluranti Adebule (right), with Commissioner of Police, Mr. Fatai Owoseni during the 56th Independence Day Parade at the Police College Ground, Ikeja, Lagos, on Saturday, October 01, 2016
The Governor who was represented at the parade by his Deputy, Dr. Mrs. Oluranti Adebule, said, "I wish to use this opportunity to make a passionate appeal, more than ever before, that we must renew our belief in the Nigeria Project and play our parts diligently. At this trying and challenging time, we must aggregate our strength and be united in focus to rescue our economy from the stranglehold of recession.
"We all need one another to survive as no part of Nigeria can do it all alone and still wield or command the kind of influence that Nigeria currently enjoys in the comity of Nations. This is not a time to despair. It is a time to review our patriotic zeal and stand firm with our leaders at all levels in our collective efforts to make Nigeria work for all."
Governor Ambode said his pact with Lagosians to run an all-inclusive government and make lives more comfortable for everyone was not just a slogan, adding that in the last 16 months, his administration has demonstrated through its actions that it was a clear statement of commitment which it is determined to actualize within the shortest time possible.
"The government and people of Lagos State are delighted to join fellow compatriots across the nation in celebrating our nation's 56th independence anniversary today.
"As we celebrate today, I enjoin all Lagosians to remain steadfast and hopeful for a better tomorrow. The future of our State is certainly brighter than anyone can imagine. Let us therefore forge a common front to defend our hard earned freedom by being purposeful, focused and disciplined. May the labour of our heroes past never be in vain," the Governor said.
The Independence Parade featured March Past from the Nigerian Police, Military and other Para-military organizations as well pupils and students from various primary and secondary schools respectively.
Top government functionaries, senior military officers, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional as well as religious leaders were also in attendance.
Following the kidnap and rescue of Mrs Margaret Emefiele, wife of the Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr Godwin Emefiele, the CBN boss has expressed gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari over his directives to the security operatives to rescue his wife within 24 hours.
Emefiele gave his gratitude in a statement released in Abuja on Saturday by the Acting Director, Corporate Communications, Mr Isaac Okorafor.
Okorafor in the statement said, Emefiele praised the security agencies for their gallantry in bringing his wife back home within 24 hours, in compliance with the directive of President Muhammadu Buhari.
He expressed his gratitude to the Delta and Edo State Governments, friends and well-wishers, who through their actions, prayers and goodwill, helped to bring this harrowing experience to a joyful end.
The CBN Governor reaffirmed his resolve to continue to serve the nation diligently, without any fear of intimidation.
It will be recalled that Mrs Emefiele was kidnapped by armed gunmen along the Benin-Agbor road on Thursday.
The kidnappers made contact with the CBN governor, demanding a huge sum in ransom. CBN governor's wife was however rescued on Friday night.
President Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday in Abuja presided over the celebration of Nigeria's 56th Independence Anniversary with former Head of State, retired Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar and other personalities in attendance.
The low-key event, which took place at the fore-court of the Presidential Villa, was Buhari's second independence celebration since he took over the leadership of the nation on May 29, last year.
President Buhari participates at the 56th Independence Anniversary programme Presidential Change of Guards Parade at the Statehouse on 1st October 2016.
President Buhari, who appeared in white traditional attires of Babbar Riga with a white cap, inspected the quarter guards before marching to the Presidential Villa forecourt to receive national salute
The national salute was followed by rendition of the National Anthem.
The Christian prayers were offered by the Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Christian Association of Nigeria, Israel Akonji.
The Deputy Chief Imam of the National Mosque, Prof. Taofeeq Abdulazeez, offered the Muslim prayers.
The event witnessed the inspection of new Guard/Quarter guard, silent drills, posting of sentries and colour, while weapons and uniforms were inspected to ensure conformity with military standards by the Commander, Brigade of Guards, Brig.-Gen. Musa Yusuf.
Shortly after the ceremony, Buhari signed the anniversary register and released 56 pigeons from a cage.
President Buhari, assisted by Vice President Osinbajo; Senate President Bukola Saraki; Chief Justice of the Federation, Justice Mahmud Mohammed, and some top dignitaries, cut the anniversary cake.
Others who attended the ceremony were; former Chief of Staff Supreme Headquarters, retired Gen. Oladipo Diya, ?APC National Chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun and former Senate President, Ken Nnamani.
Others were; the Service Chiefs, top government functionaries and members of the diplomatic corps.?
Speaking to State House correspondents after the ceremony, Senate President Bukola Saraki, expressed confidence that the nation's economy would bounce back.
According to him, the National Assembly ?has already sent a 20-point agenda to the executive to help Nigeria come out of recession, saying that NASS had started implementing four points of the agenda.
The applications filed by Chevron Plc and Total, seeking to stop claims by Nigerian government that they either failed to declare or under-declare crude oil lifted out of the country, were dismissed by a Federal High Court in Lagos today.
Justice Mojisola Olatoregun, struck out the applications for lack of merit, after hearing the arguments of the two parties.
At the resumed hearing of the matter, counsel to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Prof. Fabian Ajogwu (SAN), told the court of Chevron motion to amend the claims and file additional processes.
However, counsel to Chevron, Miannaya Aja Essien (SAN), in response to the suit filed by the Federal government, said her client had filed a counter-affidavit alongside written address, seeking the dismissal of the suit.
Ruling on the arguments of both parties, Justice Olatoregun, pronounced that the preliminary objection filed by Chevron was premature, and such was struck out.
The court also struck out the application filed by Total Plc, seeking to stop Nigeria government from prosecuting it over undeclared oil lifted out of the country.
At the resumed hearing of the Prof. Fabian Ajogwu (SAN), counsel to Federal government, told the court that they have before the court, an application dated seeking June 6, 2016, to amend it's claims filed against the oil company.
But counsel to Total Plc, Babatunde Fagbohunlu (SAN), told the court that about his client's application seeking to dismiss the Federal government's suit, on the ground that the suit is premature.
Olatoregun also struck out Total's application, saying that the application was premature.
The two suits have been adjourned till October 25, for hearing.
Federal Government of Nigeria in a bid to recover various sums of money value of the shortfall in the lifting of the Nigerian crude oil dragged the two oil companies TOTAL E &P NIGERIA LIMITED AND Chevron Plc before the court.
The Nigerian Government is claiming the sum of $490,517,280 from Total E&P Nigeria Limited.
The US and French companies are among up to 15 oil majors targeted by the Nigerian government for the recovery of $17 billion in revenue between 2011 and 2014.
Prosecutor Fabian Ajogwu told reporters outside court that the dismissal indicated there was "a course of action for the federal government".
The first case centres around the alleged non-declaration of some 57 million barrels worth $12.7 billion to the United States by the Nigerian subsidiaries of Total, Chevron and Italy's Eni.
Anglo-Dutch Shell's local subsidiary is also expected to face action in the coming weeks.
The court papers for Friday's case only mentioned Total and say the government wants $245 million in damages and interest, with 21 percent interest for every year of revenue lost.
Eni said: "The claim dates back to last March and refers to a request to our subsidiary in Nigeria (Agip) for a payment of about $160 million."
Chevron said it would not be commenting as the court case was active.
Coal, rather than gas is now used to power Dangote cement plants in Nigeria, according to the company's chairman Aliko Dangote, who said coal also reduces costs.
Dangote said his plants turned to locally-mined coal because of gas shortages due to militant attacks on gas pipelines in Niger Delta.
Alhaji Aliko Dangote
"All our cement plants have been converted to coal," Aliko Dangote, the company's billionaire majority owner and chairman, told a business conference on Thursday, adding they would use 12,000 metric tonnes of coal each day.
Dangote is shifting to coal rather than gas to fire the kilns which produce clinker, an ingredient of cement.
BUA Group, said it is also switching one of its plants in northern Nigeria to run on coal to fire its kiln to address fuel shortages. It said technological advances have helped in the processing of coal to reduce emissions. Dangote's main cement plant is located in Nigeria's Kogi State.
BUA Group said its other plants in the south of the country still run on gas to heat the kilns.
Coal's use to generate U.S. electric power fell in April to its lowest monthly level since 1978, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said in a June report. Natural gas, meanwhile, surpassed coal as the United States' top fuel source for the third straight month, the EIA said.
But gas shortages have plagued Nigeria, with militants in the oil heartland of the Niger Delta regularly disrupting the West African nation's oil and gas production.
Dangote, Africa's biggest cement producer, has an annual production capacity of 43.6 million tonnes and targets output of between 74 million and 77 million tonnes by the end of 2019 and 100 million tonnes of capacity by 2020.
The company has invested more than $5 billion to expand outside its home market in the past few years.
Dangote said Nigeria has become a cement exporter generating $1.25 billion of sales as against annual imports of $2.5 billion which the country would have spent before the sector was liberalised in 2002.
Crude oil production at Nigeria's Warri refinery in the country's restive Niger Delta region has not been affected by an explosion heard near the site, the country's oil labour union said on Friday.
The explosion heard by locals late on Thursday follows a series of attacks on oil and gas facilities in the Niger Delta by militants that have cut the OPEC member's crude oil production by about a third.
"No one has been able to pinpoint the explosion but there was a big bang around Warri axis yesterday. For now no production is affected," said Cogent Ojobor, zonal chairman of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).
The Nigerian navy said the blast was caused when its officers foiled an attempt to attack energy facilities.
"Our men fired at a boat that was suspected of carrying explosive materials," said navy spokesman Joseph Dzunve, adding that the gunfire was likely to have hit the explosives.
In a separate incident in the Niger Delta on Thursday, a Nigerian militant group claimed responsibility for an attack on the Unenurhie-Evwreni pipeline in Ughelli.
PDP protesters on Independence dayPDP protesters on Independence dayPDP protesters on Independence dayPDP protesters on Independence dayPDP protesters on Independence dayPDP protesters on Independence day
The 1st of October is much more that flags and partying, it's about Nigeria severing ties with the British and declaring independence. No doubt the day is special for every Nigerian, be it a child or an octogenarian. It is the day of patriotism and one cannot help but be nostalgic of this very day every year.
Most Nigerians even celebrate Independence Day for a span of around four to five days as they engage in several cultural activities and community gatherings to make it memorable. This year with the holiday falling on a Saturday, the government has declared the Monday a public holiday, making the weekend even longer.
Wondering what Nigerians will be doing with all the time? Jumia Travel shares six things most Nigerians do to celebrate Independence Day!
Hang Nigerian Flags Everywhere Have you ever noticed how a few days to October 1st, you find hawkers selling Nigerian flags as well as other items with green, white and green all around town, especially in Abuja? From the tiny fluttering flags flanking both sides of an automobile or Keke to the huge ones billowing in the wind atop large buildings, you see Nigerian flags hoisted and flapping everywhere, even in places you won't expect to see them at. Basically, when it comes to hanging the Nigerian flag on Independence Day, Nigerians tend to go a little overboard.
Organize A Local Parade The Independence Day celebrations can become a "fancy" affair in some locations around the country. A lot of people organize, participate as well as gather to watch processions and parades which usually include elaborate dressing in green and white costumes, Role plays, skits, musicals and a lot of performances. Keep in mind these may not be fancy parades like you see abroad or on foreign TV.
Go For Parties And Shows Since it is a paid national holiday for most Nigerians, a full day of people partying and going for shows with friends istypical of Independence Day celebrations. Basically, every organization, company or business hosts some kind of party or event and a number of them are free. The ones which require a fee are usually affordable too.
Throw KnockOuts And Fireworks Nigerians never fail to seize opportunities to throw knock-outs and crack fireworks and they usually make a big deal of it during Independence Day. In some places, people get together to enjoy some fireworks while in other places they just throw it randomly into the street. You may want to be vigilant when moving around to be just you don't become a victim of the fire play.
See Historical Films At Cinemas New historical films are either released or old ones make a comeback during Independence Day as a way of revving up national pride and patriotism as well as honoring of Nigeria's independence. There was a major explosion in 2014 with movies like October 1st, A place in the stars and Half of a Yellow sun. What better way to celebrate Independence Day holiday with your friends and family, than a good movie and some home-made snacks at any of the cinemas in your town?
Sleep And Social Media Binge Another thing most Nigerians do on independence day is stay indoors and sleep all day or spend their entire time online either stalking people on Social Media or engaging in other online activities such as gaming e.t.c. With the economic situation right now, a number of people have been on extra hustle and they do not take the `holiday to sleep and unwind anymore, they stay on the hustle. Basically, there certainly may not be a larger number of people sleeping in this year, especially in Lagos.
The United States military said it is building a $100 million drone base near Nigeria, particularly in Agadez, central Niger, to help the West African country combat militant groups and protect its borders.
Niger, a security ally of the West, is grappling simultaneously with incursions from jihadist group Boko Haram across its southern border with Nigeria as well as roaming al Qaeda-linked groups in its vast desert spaces.
A US predator drone built near Nigeria
Security sources have also expressed concern about a possible southern influx of Islamic State fighters into Niger and Chad from Libya where they are retreating from Libyan forces.
"At the request of, and in close coordination with, the Government of Niger, United States Africa Command is establishing a temporary, expeditionary cooperative security location in Agadez, Niger," said a U.S. Africa Command spokesperson in an emailed response to Reuters.
"Agadez is an ideal, central location to enable ISR collection (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) to face the security threat across the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin region," she said. The $100 million covered initial costs for construction, fuel and equipment.
Niger's President Mahamadou Issoufou was re-elected in March having promised to boost security in the poor, semi-arid state. However, the southern region of Diffa, which borders the Boko Haram stronghold in northeastern Nigeria, is still in a state of emergency and subject to regular attacks.
The US already has drone bases in Cameroon, Burkina Faso and Chad. It also has in Mauritania, Ethiopia and Kenya.
The United States first said it was considering establishing a drone facility adjacent to an existing Agadez airbase in 2014.
It already has forces in Niger's capital Niamey and will eventually relocate them to Agadez, the U.S. Africa Command spokesperson added.
Intelligence gathered by the drones will be shared with other partners in the region such as Nigeria, Chad, Mali among others, she said.
Agadez is also a major transit point for African migrants seeking a northwards path towards Europe.
The new facility is the latest example of the United States' deepening military ties with the fragile Sahel region, a semi-arid band stretching from Senegal to Sudan.
In May, it signed a defence deal with Senegal to ease the deployment of troops to the country.
France also has strong military ties with Niger, including a base in northern Niger, and has 3,500 troops spread across the Sahel combating Islamist fighters.
