Vanguard News

Your RSS feed from RSSFWD.com.	Update your RSS subscription

Vanguard News 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 Yinka Edwards gets BAFTA nomination 2:19:47 PM Tony Award-winning Nigerian cinematographer, Yinka Edwards is set to take his craft to the international scene as he has been nominated for a BAFTA award. Organizers  of the British Academy Film Awards announced their nominees for the best British and international contributions to film in 2016, during the week, and Edwards made the list. Edwards, who is behind amazing movies such as Kunle Afolayan's 'October 1', 'Phone swap', 'The Figurine' and the wave making '76  was nominated for his work as a co-director of photography on the animated movie, 'A love story'. The animation was Edward's graduating project from the National Film and Television School (NFTS) Beaconsfield, England where he bagged a Masters degree in Film and Television Production with a focus on Cinematography. British actresses like  Viola Davis (Fences) and Meryl Streep (Florence Foster Jenkins) walked away with major nominations in their respective acting categories. A Love Story, which was directed by Anushka Kishani Naanayakkara, was nominated for 'Best British Short Animation' alongside two other films, The Alan Dimension and Tough.   The post Yinka Edwards gets BAFTA nomination appeared first on Vanguard News. People didn't take me seriously when I was producing 'King Invincible – Femi Adisa 2:18:49 PM Tony By ANOZIE EGOLE The Nigerian movie industry is in for big things this year as popular director, Femi Adisa, has set the ball rolling, premièring his debut  movie as a producer titled, 'King Invincible.' 'King Invincible' is an epic film that tells the sprawling tale of love and war. The handsome warlord, Taari (Tope Tedela), is fast transforming into a wolf due to the dog curse that has been placed on him. He must immediately find the cure to the dog curse or be forever damned. The plot thickens when he discovers that the prince of the village, Adetiba (Gabriel Afolayan) will stop at nothing to prevent him from getting the cure he desperately needs. Meanwhile, princess Morenike (Omowunmi Dada) who is desperately in love with Taari, goes against her brother and goes beyond limits to get the cure for her betrothed. Speaking about the movie, the excited Femi said "I wrote this story in 2003 but I knew at that time, Nollywood was not ready to do a film with such special effects, stunts, set design et al. So I just kept it aside. During my NYSC in 2009, I touched the story up a little and started saving towards shooting the film later. In 2015, I felt I am ready to shoot the film then I contacted Paul Gaius who helped out. For a first timer, embarking on such a challenging project, many people did not take me seriously but I wanted the best guys in the industry and nothing less."   The post People didn't take me seriously when I was producing 'King Invincible – Femi Adisa appeared first on Vanguard News. Ijaw HOSTCOM appeals to Okowa on Forcados terminal export line 2:15:17 PM Tony Members  of The Host Communities Of Nigeria Producing Oil & Gas(HOSTCOM), Ijaw Ethnic Nationality, Delta State have appealed toGovernor Ifeanyi Okowa to urgently intervene between the  host Communities– Odimodi, Isiayegbene and Beniboye to the Shell PetroleumDevelopment Company (SPDC) to avoid break down of law and order in theongoing repair work at the 48 inches FORCADOS TERMINAL EXPORT LINE. In an open letter to the Governor signed by Comrade  Kingsley Ikiere, Chairman, Mr Ozigbo Godwin, Secretary and made available to newsmen in Warri, Delta State,  they urged the Governor to do the needful now to maintain peace at the ongoing repair work at the Forcados Terminal Export Line. They said; ” We write first and foremost to commend you for the wonderful works you are doing in Delta State and we urge you to keep it up. We are proud of your enviable achievements so far. Do not relent”. According to them;”Your Excellency, we write to bring to your notice on the urgent need to intervene between our Communities (ODIMODI, ISIAYEGBENE AND BENIBOYE) and the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) to avoid break down of law and order in the ongoing repair work at the 48 inches FORCADOS TERMINAL EXPORT LINE”. They also wrote;”Your  Excellency, we want total peace to reign as far as the ongoing repair work is concerned so as not to delay free flow of oil in order not to affect oil revenue accruable to the State”. “We wish to implore Your Excellency, to do the needful now by ensuring absolute peace for the repair work at the 48 inches FORCADOS TERMINAL EXPORT LINE”, they wrote. The post Ijaw HOSTCOM appeals to Okowa on Forcados terminal export line appeared first on Vanguard News. Red meat intake linked to common bowel condition 1:59:22 PM Tony By Sola Ogundipe A high dietary intake of red meat, particularly of the unprocessed variety, is linked to a heightened risk of developing the common inflammatory bowel condition, diverticulitis, reveals research published online in the journal  Gut. Diverticulitis occurs when the small pockets or bulges lining the intestine (diverticula) become inflamed. It is relatively common, accounting for thousands of hospital admissions every year. New cases of the condition are on the rise, particularly among younger people. And around 4 per cent of those affected will develop severe or long term complications, such as perforations in the gut wall, abscesses, and fistula (abnormal connections between two hollow spaces). Insufficient dietary fibre intake is also thought to have a role, but few other dietary factors have been explored in any detail. In a bid to rectify this, the research team assessed the potential impact of total dietary red meat, poultry, and fish intake on the risk of developing diverticulitis in nearly 46,500 men, taking part in the Health Professionals Follow up Study. During the 26 year monitoring period, some 764 men developed diverticulitis. Those who ate higher quantities of red meat tended to use common anti-inflammatory drugs and painkillers more often; they smoked more; and they were less likely to exercise vigorously. Their fibre intake was also lower. Those who ate more poultry and fish were more likely to exercise vigorously, take aspirin, and to smoke less. Compared with the lowest levels of consumption, the highest level of red meat intake was associated with a 58 per cent heightened risk of developing diverticulitis, with each daily serving associated with an 18 v increased risk. However, risk peaked at six servings a week. The association was strongest for unprocessed red meat, and substituting one daily portion of this with fish or poultry was associated with a 20 v lowered risk. The research was only carried out in men, the findings may not be applicable to women. Nevertheless, the researchers conclude: "Our findings may provide practical dietary guidance for patients at risk of diverticulitis, a common disease of huge economic and clinical burden." The post Red meat intake linked to common bowel condition appeared first on Vanguard News. Why keep quiet, Catholic Rev. Father asks Imo leaders 1:38:43 PM Tony By Chidi Nkwopara, OWERRI. Serious fear has been expressed that Nigeria may not successfully extricate itself from the pains of the current economic crunch if the federal and state governments continue to practice politics of compensation. The Parish Priest of Saint Bridget's Catholic Church, Okwuohia, Obowo local council area of Imo State, Rev. Fr. Joseph Okafor, who made his feelings known while preaching the sermon during the dedication of the twins of Mr. and Mrs. Sebastian Ogwuegbu, also lashed political bigwigs in the state for "keeping quiet in the face of mounting irregularities in our dear state". "What we have in Nigeria is politics of compensation. The ability of political appointees to perform optimally in any office does not worry anybody. Imo State is today in a mess because all the bigwigs have been silenced by the government of the day", Fr. Okafor said. According to the priest, "pensioners have been sadly shortchanged in a manner alien to this clime but nobody is kicking against it", even as he wondered how the state government expects victims, their friends and relations to be in the face of the glaring injustice. "How can we be happy when our aged fathers, mothers and relations are suffering untold hardship and avoidable deaths? Governor Rochas Okorocha's praise singers are still not seeing anything wrong in what their principal has done", Okafor said. Taking a hard look at what he termed "the senseless killing and maiming of innocent citizens by herdsmen", the cleric sought to know how agrarian policy of the Federal Government can be realized in the prevailing circumstance. "The Federal Government wants us to return to the farm but herdsmen have been killing and maiming innocent citizens in this land. We are yet to observe concrete steps taken by government", Fr. Okafor said. While saying that people abandon substance and pursue shadow in Nigeria, the Catholic cleric however lamented that "there is so much hatred, acrimony, rancour, murder and other serious crimes in our country". He then cautioned that "if we must get out of today's recession, the federal and state governments should look for the best hands to manage the country's affairs, irrespective of their political, ethnic or religious leaning, otherwise, we will fail". The post Why keep quiet, Catholic Rev. Father asks Imo leaders appeared first on Vanguard News. Photos: Osun pensioners stage solidarity rally for Aregbesola 12:57:37 PM Tony Pensioners under the name, Trangular Group of Pensioners,  in Osun state have staged a solidarity rally in support of the state Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.  The pensioners who numbered over 3000 rallied round Osogbo, the state capital, carrying a banner that read, #Pensioners with Ogbeni” while equally singing solidarity song along. Cross section of the Triangular Group of Pensioners in Osun, during a road walk in appreciation of Governor Rauf Aregbesola”s good governance in the State of Osun, in Osogbo Osun Pensioners rally for Aregbesola Osun Pensioners rally for Aregbesola Osun Pensioners rally for Aregbesola Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Chairman, All Progressive Party (APC), Prince Gboyega Famodun (left),being welcome by members of the State chapter of Triangular Group of Pensioners, during a programme of appreciation and prayer to the governor for good governance, held at the freedom Park, Osogbo Osun Pensioners rally for Aregbesola Osun Pensioners Osun Pensioners Osun Pensioners rally for Aregbesola The post Photos: Osun pensioners stage solidarity rally for Aregbesola appeared first on Vanguard News. Video: MMM participants celebrate unfreezing of Mavros 12:19:31 PM Tony Following the unfreezing of access to request for money, known as Get Help (GH) by the ponzi scheme, Mavrodi Mondial Moneybox, MMM, on Friday, participants of the scheme have taken to celebration and hosting of parties to express their happiness. Recall that access to Getting Help was restricted for over a month, a development that caused so much panic on the participants of the scheme who taught that their investments were lost for good drawing from the antecedents of similar ponzi schemes which have come and gone with peoples money in the past. In the video, a group of the participants are seen dancing to the song, Osinachi by Humblesmith while the second video shows another passionate participant singing lyrics that says “MMM is back again.” The post Video: MMM participants celebrate unfreezing of Mavros appeared first on Vanguard News. Kaduna killings: Nothing must happen to Bishop Oyedepo – Reno 11:58:25 AM Tony Reno Omokri has warned that nothing must happen to the founder and presiding Bishop of the megachurch, Living Faith Church Worldwide International, AKA  Winners Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo for invoked God's curses on those fueling Southern Kaduna killings as well as saying God should break up Nigeria now if it is His will. Also read: Lord, if it's your will to break up Nigeria, break it now – Oyedepo The post Kaduna killings: Nothing must happen to Bishop Oyedepo – Reno appeared first on Vanguard News. Naira plunges further as CBN resumes dollar sales to BDCs next week 11:31:11 AM adekunle Lagos – The Naira on Friday depreciated further at the parallel market as dollar scarcity worsened, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports. Naira may be seeing its worst times as the CBN will be resuming dollar sales to Bureau De Change (BDC) operators next week. The Nigerian currency exchanged at N497 to a dollar at the parallel market, losing two points from Thursdays posting; while the Pound Sterling and the Euro traded at N597 and 515 respectively. At the BDC window, the Naira was sold at N399 to a dollar, while the Pound Sterling and the Euro closed at N600 and N515, respectively. Trading at the interbank market window saw the Naira closed at N305.00 to a dollar. Alhaji Aminu Gwadabe, President, Association of Bureau De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON), expressed the hope that the Naira would bounce back next week. Gwadabe said that the CBN would be selling about 25 million dollars to BDCs next week and this would definitely help in reducing liquidity challenge in the Market. He urged Nigerians not to panic as the CBN was working closely with the BDCs to ensure that the Naira recovers quickly. The post Naira plunges further as CBN resumes dollar sales to BDCs next week appeared first on Vanguard News. Igbo youths protest clampdown on Mrs Jonathan 11:25:32 AM adekunle By Dennis Agbo. ENUGU- Igbo youths in their numbers, once again took to the streets of Enugu, Friday, demanding for a public apology from the Nigerian Police over the raid on Abuja home of former first lady, Dame Patience Jonathan. It could be re-callled that the Police authorities had declared that the residence was raided following a tip-off that money was stashed in the place. However, the youths who stormed Enugu metropolis after submitting a letter at the Enugu State Police Command said Mrs. Jonathan deserved public apology since nothing was found in her home. Spokesman of the group, Comrade Nwachukwu Kachukwu David, who addressed journalists called on the Federal Government to face various challenges facing the nation instead of engaging in unnecessary witch-hunt. ‎ He declared that: “power supply has gone from bad to worse; many homes could not buy rice for Christmas; economic policies have crippled businesses but instead of finding solutions, Buhari’s government is chasing after innocent citizens.” Nwachukwu further stated that “The entire Igbo Youths stand here today to unequivocally condemn the ceaseless harassment of our daughter, former first Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan. “The latest of this onslaught is the raid on her Abuja house by operatives from the Force Headquarters. This is coming at a time she is still under a vicious attack by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC. “It is even more curious considering the claims by the Police authorities that the raid was carried out over spurious tip-off that huge cash was being kept in the house. “However, after the embarrassing invasion, the police operatives came out with nothing. This is a serious justification to our stand all these while that the attack on Dame Jonathan is politically motivated. Where then is the so-called cash stashed in the house? Who gave the said tip-off? What do they stand to gain by continuously maligning the former first lady? “We are appalled that having served this country with their utmost capacity and having conceded defeat even when they were being urged on, the former first lady is facing this unwarranted persecution. “It is quite clear that all agents of government have been unleashed on them for no just cause- only with the sole aim of humiliating and bringing Jonathan and his family to public ridicule. “Now that they carried out this action and it ended as a wild goose chase, how would the Police compensate her for this national embarrassment?” The youths demanded that “the Police should tender unreserved apology to the former first Nigerian family. We also demand that henceforth they should be treated with dignity and accorded the respect they deserve. “We equally re-echo our demand again that all her accounts, which were hitherto freezed by the EFCC, should be un-frozen. Jonathan and his family should not be cowed down merely because they chose to toe the path of peace and honour for the unity of Nigeria. “May we also state here that other persons have served this country in the same capacity and till date nobody has harassed them. We say time has come for and end to this virulent attack. This is the only way to convince us that Nigeria is indeed one and that it is not a country where some persons are sacrificial lambs. Enough is enough!‎” The post Igbo youths protest clampdown on Mrs Jonathan appeared first on Vanguard News. Naira plunges further, exchanges at N497 to $1 11:20:42 AM Ikenna The Naira on Friday depreciated further at the parallel market as dollar scarcity worsened, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports. NAN reports that the Naira may be seeing its worst times as the CBN will be resuming dollar sales to Bureau De Change (BDC) operators next week. The Nigerian currency exchanged at N497 to a dollar at the parallel market, losing two points from Thursdays posting; while the Pound Sterling and the Euro traded at N597 and 515 respectively. At the BDC window, the Naira was sold at N399 to a dollar, while the Pound Sterling and the Euro closed at N600 and N515, respectively. Trading at the interbank market window saw the Naira closed at N305.00 to a dollar. Alhaji Aminu Gwadabe, President, Association of Bureau De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON), expressed the hope that the Naira would bounce back next week. Gwadabe said that the CBN would be selling about 25 million dollars to BDCs next week and this would definitely help in reducing liquidity challenge in the Market. He urged Nigerians not to panic as the CBN was working closely with the BDCs to ensure that the Naira recovers quickly. (NAN) The post Naira plunges further, exchanges at N497 to $1 appeared first on Vanguard News. Trump not to Nadal's taste 11:16:14 AM adekunle Former tennis world number one Rafael Nadal said Friday that US President-elect Donald Trump was not quite to his taste while lamenting Spanish politics has also, in his view, become too razzmatazz. “It’s not my style. I was in the United States when Trump was on the campaign trail,” Nadal told Spanish online site El Espanol as he limbered up for the Australian Open. “It is true that I don’t care for his manner of speaking — his way of expressing himself is not a style I appreciate,” added Nadal, while conceding he was no expert on the US political scene. “Also, I’ll be honest — the other option didn’t do much for me either,” added the Spaniard in allusion to defeated Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. Nadal consoled himself with the thought that in a globalised world Trump would not necessarily be able to have things all his own way. The Mallorcan winner of 14 Grand Slam singles titles was more guarded in his assessment of the incoming president than actress Meryl Streep, who earlier this week used the Golden Globes ceremony to blast Trump. Nadal did criticise a Spanish political establishment left in virtual paralysis for much of last year after inconclusive December 2015 elections before conservative leader Mariano Rajoy was sworn in to head a new minority government. “Everything is turning into a show — and Spain is not a show. Spain is a country, our present and our future,” the 30-year-old said, indicating he believed supporters of different strands of political opinion should reach out for the good of the nation. Nadal, whose season was plagued by a wrist injury last season, said he was ready for the Australian Open which starts on Monday. “I feel good today,” said Nadal, currently ranked ninth, adding that if he could stay fit he could get back to competing with the best. Nadal’s preparations were hit in terms of match fitness at least when he lost to Milos Raonic in the quarter-finals in Brisbane after first winning an exhibition event in Abu Dhabi. “Injuries or no injuries I’ve had a fantastic career to date — but that doesn’t mean I don’t want to improve. Of course I do,” he concluded. The post Trump not to Nadal’s taste appeared first on Vanguard News. Don't miss this Offer… Own A Property in Lekki 11:14:23 AM sunday The bridge between you and that exquisite home you desire is two words. PENNEK. NIGERIA. (Your Preferred Place). Beautiful houses in serene estates with the safest titles… we have your i-DEAL home waiting for you. Located in the most exclusive neighborhoods our homes offer you peace, serenity and security. Even if you decide to build to your own taste, we have gone through painstaking measures to ensure that your home/investment is as safe as can be. We have developed the most equipped and serene estates you will be proud to call home. Talking about investments, our properties offer some of the highest ROIs around, with 30 to 50% increase annually. It's simply i-DEAL… the perfect DEAL. Security wise, you're covered both legally and physically. Our properties come with perfect titles, are located in tightly secured areas equipped with 24 hour security surveillance.   Check out our offers below: Lekki Southern Villa Annex 1, Sangotedo, Lekki, Lagos. The Lekki Southern Vila Annex is located at Sangotedo, 12 minutes away from the VGC Round-About and is in close proximity to several important facilities like the Shoprite Novare Lekki Mall, Diamond Gardens, Emperor Luxury Estate amongst many others. Duplex starting at ₦26,000,000.00 Grand-Deluxe plots @ 12,000,000.00 Lekki Southern Villa Phase 2, Shapati, Lekki, Lagos. Lekki Southern Villa Phase 2 is 15-18 minutes away from VGC roundabout. It borders the Lakowe Golf Course and is located few minutes away from Mayfair gardens and Lakowe lakes. Grand-Deluxe plots @5,500,000.00 Deluxe plots  @ 3,500,000.00 Pen Gardens Phase 2, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos. Pen Gardens Phase 2 is off the LekkiEpe expressway at Lamija town,Ibeju Lekki. Its 3 minutes away from the new Lekki Airport. Grand-Deluxe plots @1,800,000.00 Pen Gardens, Owerri Pen Gardens, Owerri is our flagship estate in Eastern Nigeria. It is located in a prime neighborhood in the Port-Harcourt Road axis. Grand-Deluxe plots @3.500,000.00 What's more? We are offering discounts on every purchase ( Terms and conditions apply) Invest in Lekki Southern Villa and Pen Gardens today, and you'll thank yourself for making the perfect decision. Your dream home is just a phone call away. 08122493117,  09055557516, 09020906507,  08032692422. 07001000000,  08122493114 sales@pennek.com www.pennek.com The post Don’t miss this Offer… Own A Property in Lekki appeared first on Vanguard News. CAF boss Hayatou facing challenge over 3rd term 11:12:03 AM adekunle CAF executive committee member Ahmad Ahmad said Friday he will challenge long-serving Issa Hayatou in March for the presidency of the African football body. Cameroonian Hayatou, 70, has run CAF since succeeding Sudanese Abdel Halim Muhammad in 1988 and is seeking an eighth four-year term. Issa Hayatou The CAF confirmed in Libreville meanwhile that Hayatou was standing for a new term through to 2021. Ahmad, the Madagascar Football Association president, told reporters in Libreville that his candidacy had been accepted. “My candidacy for the position of Confederation of African Football president has been approved,” he said. Ahmad is in the Gabonese capital ahead of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, which kicks off Saturday. Ahmad faces a huge task to unseat Hayatou as two previous challengers — Angolan Armando Machado and Botswana’s Ismael Bhamjee — suffered humiliating defeats. The presidential election will be held in Addis Ababa during the 60th birthday celebrations of CAF. Officials wanting to become president of the Cairo-based body must be part of the executive committee. Following a lead set by world governing body FIFA, CAF last year agreed that future presidents of the confederation will be restricted to a maximum of three four-year terms. This creates the possibility of former international middle-distance runner Hayatou remaining in power until he is 83. The post CAF boss Hayatou facing challenge over 3rd term appeared first on Vanguard News. 18 ships discharging petroleum products, other commodities in Lagos 11:11:27 AM Ikenna Eighteen ships are presently discharging petroleum products and other commodities at Apapa and Tin-Can Island ports in Lagos, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) said on Friday. NPA explained that the ships were at the ports discharging bulk wheat, petrol, empty containers, general cargo, bulk fertiliser, bulk gypsum, aviation fuel and buthane. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 22 ships laden with petroleum products, food items and other goods are expected to arrive Lagos ports between Jan. 13 and Jan. 28. NPA said that the expected ships would ferry into the country base oil, general cargoes, containers, aviation fuel, bulk gypsum, diesel, empty container, bulk fertiliser, frozen fish and petrol. NAN reports that 23 ships were expected on Jan. 10; 22 ships on Jan 11 and 22 ships expected on Jan. 12. The document noted that four ships had arrived the ports, waiting to berth with bulk fertiliser, frozen fish and petrol. (NAN) AIC/AJA The post 18 ships discharging petroleum products, other commodities in Lagos appeared first on Vanguard News. Guardiola concerned by Kompany's injury woes 11:07:13 AM adekunle Pep Guardiola admits he is not certain if injury-plagued Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany will ever return to peak form. Kompany is back in first team contention having had an eight-week lay-off for a knee problem he sustained against Crystal Palace in November. Guardiola That was the Belgium centre-back’s 35th injury since joining the Premier League club from Hamburg in 2008. Now, at the age of 30, Kompany’s long-term fitness and durability is uncertain and even his City manager has no idea whether the defender will recapture the dominant displays that made him such a key player. “I don’t know, it is a good question. It is not the first time we have talked about that,” Guardiola said when asked about Kompany’s future on Friday. “The good news is he is back and hopefully he stays fit for a long time because then we will see what level he is at. “When he is fit, he is at the top level, we cannot deny how good Vincent is, but to achieve that maybe he needs a bit of time. “Everybody needs that when you have been out for a long time. Mentally he is strong, he knows what he needs to do, but what I would like is for him not to put a lot of pressure on himself. “He needs weeks and weeks and weeks of training sessions and to just go out there and play the games. “He doesn’t have to put pressure on himself to do amazing things, he just has to do the simple things and be the defender he was. “He just needs to keep it simple and do the things he had always done. Once he is back up and running, he will achieve the things he wants, he will get back to his level.” – Mentality – Kompany has repeatedly claimed that he feels he can regain his full fitness and enjoy an uninterrupted run in the first team. But Guardiola revealed that he has spoken with the player and warned him to take his comeback in a steady and sustainable manner. “Yes, his mentality is that he feels he wants to come back immediately,” Guardiola said. “He wants to be perfect immediately, but I know, in this business, you do not get time. “You are judged immediately, but he has to feel his way. His manager and his teammates will give him time to come back, he has been away for a long, long time.” Guardiola must name his Champions League squad for the knock-out stages in two weeks and the Spaniard admitted he must make a decision on whether to risk naming Kompany to one of the places. “I haven’t thought about the Champions League squad yet,” he said. “He was on the list for the first half of the season, but unfortunately he was injured and could not play. “We are going to see which players are going to be involved, everybody has a chance. Hopefully, he is able to play (in the Champions League) in the second half of the season.” One player whose City career is currently being delayed is the Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus who has not completed the paperwork over his January transfer to Eastlands. Although Jesus’s move was initially agreed last year, Guardiola confirmed the administration process is delaying the highly-rated 19-year-old’s debut. The post Guardiola concerned by Kompany’s injury woes appeared first on Vanguard News. I'm calmer than Klopp says Mourinho 11:04:12 AM adekunle Jose Mourinho claims he is a calmer manager than Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp despite having been sent to the stands twice for disciplinary reasons this season. United manager Mourinho has guided his team to nine successive wins in all competitions, and even though they are currently sixth, they could make up significant ground on the Premier League’s top four by beating Liverpool on Sunday. Mourinho United’s run, which includes six straight league victories, has moved them to within five points of Liverpool, who begin the weekend in second place. Klopp suggested on Friday that both managers are driven by anger, and that is the reason for their sustained success. Mourinho, though, believes he is calmer, even though he has faced three Football Association charges since taking charge at Old Trafford last May. The former Chelsea chief was sent to the stands against Burnley in October for a half-time dispute with referee Mark Clattenburg, and suffered the same fate in a league game against West Ham after he kicked a water bottle. Mourinho received a one-match touchline ban for both offences, and a separate fine of £50,000 ($60,000) for making comments about referee Anthony Taylor before United’s 0-0 draw at Anfield in October. “I just think I like to win like every manager likes to win. Everyone has his own personality. Everyone has his own style of coaching and his own style of leading,” Mourinho told reporters on Friday. “Probably we have some qualities that are similar, for sure we have other qualities that make us really different people and different managers. “But looking to this match, I think he wants to play the game as much as I want to. He is as motivated as I am. “I’m not sure if he’s so calm as I am, but it’s just one more big game in our careers.” Mourinho acknowledges that he still has the hunger for success that has brought him eight domestic league titles across four countries during his managerial career, as well as the two Champions League triumphs. His first significant impact at Old Trafford as a manager was in March 2004, when his Porto team knocked United out of the Champions League in the last 16. Mourinho celebrated a decisive late goal in the second leg of that tie, which Porto won 3-2 on aggregate, by running down the touchline. The United manager joked that, even though he is 13 years older, he is still more than capable of repeating that celebration at the right moment. “Yeah I can run. The problem is to score a winning goal in the last minute. I can still run, though, it’s no problem,” he said. Mourinho indicated that winger Memphis Depay could yet stay at United beyond the end of the January transfer window, despite interest from Lyon. “The offer we had is far from being reasonable for us. He is our player. If nothing happens he is one more for us,” Mourinho said. The post I’m calmer than Klopp says Mourinho appeared first on Vanguard News. Bilateral trade: Ambode meets Bbritish, German envoys 11:00:20 AM adekunle …Insists Plans To Make Lagos Hub Of Commerce, Tourism In Africa On Course Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Friday said the vision of his administration to create a more prosperous and safer Lagos and transform the State into the hub of commerce and tourism in Africa remained on course and all efforts would be geared towards achieving the desired result. Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (right), with British High Commissioner, Mr. Paul Arkwright during a courtesy call on the Governor at the Lagos House, Ikeja, on Friday, January 13, 2017. Governor Ambode, who spoke at Lagos House in Ikeja when he received on courtesy visit the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Paul Arkwright, said he remained committed to transforming Lagos from being the commercial hub of Nigeria to that of Africa just like London is the hub of commerce and tourism in Europe. He recalled the historical ties between Nigeria and Britain and vowed not only to continue to uphold the relationship and scale it up for the benefit of the people, but also ensure the protection of British nationals and their investments in the State. He said: "We are doing everything to make sure that we take as much as possible from the expertise of the British companies and I want to see a situation where how London is the hub of European commerce and tourism, we can also make Lagos to be the hub of African commerce and tourism and that is where we are going. "We want to appreciate the partnership that exists between us and the British Government and by extension the partnership existing between Britain and Nigeria. We know that as Lagos continues to be the commercial capital of Nigeria, whatever it is that we do together will obviously grow the GDP of Nigeria because 67 per cent of almost all the commercial activities in the country take place in Lagos." The Governor, who also played host to German Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Barnhard Schlagheck, assured that the State Government would continue to improve on the partnership existing between it and other nationals, especially by creating the enabling environment for investments to thrive. Responding, Schlagheck said he was at Lagos House to further advance the relationship between his country and Nigeria and laid a solid foundation for improvement, especially with the German-Lagos relationship. He said he had been very impressed with the very impressive moves and policies pursued in Lagos under Governor Ambode, saying that Lagos has shown to Nigeria how the country can overcome the economic challenges and once again become a model for prosperity and progress. The envoy specifically commended Governor Ambode for the innovative traffic management strategy, the LAKE Rice initiative and the remarkable efforts to bring in foreign investors to the State. On his part, the British Commissioner (Arkwright) said his visit was principally to advance the partnership between his country and Lagos, saying that the State, being the heartbeat of Nigerian business, is central to his vision of promoting trade, investment, job creation and growth in Nigeria and Britain. He also commended Governor Ambode for his vision for the State, and expressed readiness to work with the State for mutual benefit to the Nigeria and Britain, and by extension, Lagos. "We have had prior discussion talking about some of the priorities of the Governor and I am very impressed by his vision for State of Lagos. We have talked about Transport, Housing, and Aviation links which are extremely important as we look to Lagos to really help to drive the economy of Nigeria and pull the country out of the current economic difficulties and I assure that the United Kingdom will be your partner in this," Arkwright said. The post Bilateral trade: Ambode meets Bbritish, German envoys appeared first on Vanguard News. Don't link Boko Haram with Islam, Ex-GrandKhadi advises Nigerians 11:00:08 AM adekunle Ilorin – A former GrandKhadi of the Kwara Sharia Court of Appeal, retired Justice Salihu Olountoyin-Mohammed, on Friday, urged the people not to link Boko Haram insurgency with lslam. The Jurist made the clarification in llorin during an interview. According to him, lslam as a religion that makes peace its cornerstone, adding that perpetrators of negative acts such as Boko Haram insurgents are not Muslims. Salihu-Olountoyin, however, advised Muslims to always allow peace, unity, love, and goodness to fellow human being their guiding principle, regardless of religious or tribe or other inclinations. "The activities of Boko Haram insurgency are purely anti-Islam and unconstitutional, they are not part of lslamic law", the ex-Grandkhadi said. He further advised Muslims to shun destructive tendencies, stating that no meaningful development could take place in an atmosphere of rancour, acrimony and hatred. The Jurist, however, advised Nigerians to be conscious of their security by reporting negative activities or suspicious movement in their domains to security operatives. Salihu-Olountoyin called on residents in the rural communities not to harbour unknown persons in their areas as part of measures to curb insurgency in the country to the barest minimum. The post Don't link Boko Haram with Islam, Ex-GrandKhadi advises Nigerians appeared first on Vanguard News. Shocking! How Small Blokos Made Banker Lose His Wife & His Life to An Agbero! 10:46:59 AM sunday   This is A Sponsored Post..   Dear Reader,                                             If you are a man and you DON'T want to lose your wifey to one stupid "Agbero" or sugar boy better read this true life story to the very end! This true life story is about a 31 years old banker. He  lost his life in Agege part of Lagos State through a fight with a street Agbero all because he had a small manhood and and only lasted for just 2mins!     How Did a Seasoned Banker Got to the Level  of Fighting with an Agbero?                                       Keep Reading! This guy had a girlfriend whom he promised marriage. It turned that this lady was secretly dating another man (The Agbero). On discovering what was happening, the banker got so angry. He could not mad with the fact that his fiancée was secretly "KNACKING" another man behind his back. So he asked the lady to choose between him and the Agbero. Guess What? The babe went for the Agbero, thanked the banker for his many  years of assistance then walked away! Women! Still trying to figure out if he was dreaming or it was actually happening for real, this banker picked up his phone and called the lady’s line. Surprisingly, the receiver was a man-the agbero. “Shebi you don free her?" "Why you still dey call dey disturb my babe?" He continues…. "So na that small money wey you dey give her wey I take dey help life na’im make you dey show yourself abi?” he Agbero was ranting at the other end. This banker, remembered that the very  phone with which they were answering his call was an android phone (infinix hot) he  bought for the babe. He stormed out in anger to meet the girl & retrieve some of his belongings that were in her possession. Unfortunately for him, the Agbero was there too!  Gobe! That was how the fight started. The Agbero broke a bottle and stabbed him around the neck. That's How a Good Banker Died In The hands of A Worthless Agbero! What would make a lady abandon a man  who foots her bills for another who takes from her? Why would a woman cheat on a well to do man like a banker? The answer is simple! That Abgero has one thing the banker didn’t have….. Unlike the rich banker who was a confirm "2 Mins Man"  Big, Strong & Reliable Blokos that can drill that babe till she loses her brain and went for a tout instead of sticking to a reasonable man. You See what man men don't know is that for women it's NOT always about the money. Rather it's about how long your Blokos is & how long you can last on bed that will blow up their mind and make them feel you I their head…in short sturdy shows that it's like a "drug" for women. -Forget About Your Range Rover! -Forget About You Billions of Naira! -Forget About Being a Caring Husband! -Forget About Giving Her 500k For Shopping! If you don't "Chop"  her "honey well" another sugar boy or Agbero will do the "Chopping"  for you and collect that "Shopping Money" you gave to you wife. If you are a 2 Mins man like Indomie, just forget it, you woman will either cheat on you, or leave you along!!! So my dear brother, it’s all about how well the man in between your leg works..can your Blokos fork for over 40 Mins? Can you last long? And that one thing is what women want and they are ready to do anything to ensure that they are fully satisfied to the full, that's why you see that the Bankers Babe left him for a Agbero without.                                                        Do You Know The Worst Part? It Will be hard for you to even see another babe! Because women of nowadays know how to SPOT a man who have a small Blokos & who don't last for like 30 mins from far!  Who am I to Say All This? I used to be a 2 mins man who can't even last for 1 mins! I don't wish for Even my Enemies to have, I could barely stand a round! Men! My condition was so terrible I went to Cele Church & Herbalist for cure because I know what this use to lead to…  A Unhappy Home! I also tried several things, I did not work at all, the Tiny Blokos did not even rise an inch! And I was a even a 1 mins man!  But Did I see Any Solution? Hell No.                        I was Depressed, Oppressed & Unimpressed with myself!   This was Driving her crazy and I needed to do something or Else I will lose her! I searched everywhere, use all sort of things…just  to get the solution to my EMBARRASING  caricature Small Blokos & 2 Mins Manliness Palava…but to no avail. And he had to do something Unless I will lose this wife like I lost the LAST one to my  Aboki gate man..(oh…another story!) Hopefully 5 Month I Discovered a very POTENT save solution for my small blokos and premature ejaculation problem! It works Like Gangbusters! But guess what? Guess Where I Discovered the Solution? Nope! Not at a Church, Not even at Mosque, Neither one Imam , nor Bishop, nor Babalowo performed any spiritual Miracle .  Nor is It a funny annoying foul smelling Agbo, and all sorts of rubbish! See it Here=> http://naijamenparol.com/sunad1/   All thanks to my Sharp Friend Tobi, that Bad Man, she showed me a No Side effect cream that can give you a SOLID  7 inch Blokos in 14 days or Less & a 100 % Natural  Premature Ejaculation Killer that kills 2 Mins Manliness like Boko Haram! Luckily Me! I discovered a this game changer that turned me from a totally useless man with an Invincible Blokos to a STRONG man with a strong Rod that can last for over 40 mins in action.  See it Here=> http://naijamenparol.com/sunad1/ Now my friends can NOT leave their wives with me…cos they know they will be tempted to taste my Rod of Life! I felt less than a man…even with all my Millions, I was not worthy to be called a man.  What about my Wife? Or will I say Ex-Wifey?                           I caught her read handed Knacking my Aboki Gate Man on my Matrimonial bed! It was that terrible! If not for the Amazing 100 NAFDAC APPROVED  Solution that Cures Premature Ejaculation! See it Here=> http://naijamenparol.com/sunad1/ But after over 4 years of getting Married to my new wife I discovered a POTENT 2-in-1 Solution that slaughtered my twin palava. Today I am a "Bad Man" on bed as I have the right Blokos to drill the Honey Well & I have the stamina to last for 40 Mins Without Spilling all the milk on her! See it Here=> http://naijamenparol.com/sunad1/ When I discovered this unbelievable game changer it was like Dansuki Just sent me N50 Billion! Best part is that I now had Mad confidence like Fayose & I can go hard on any madam whether Slim or big, whether tall or short!                               All because of the Fast Action  2-in-1 Solution! Who Else Want the 2-in-1 Solution Today? Introducing…. "The Amazing 2-in-1 Solution" This is an powerful combo of  these 2 miracle working solution to your chronic premature ejaculation & small manhood problem. "(#1) XXL Enlargement Gel" XXL Gel is an extremely potent gel that INSTANTLY gives you a massive "Python" size blokos that will make your woman scream anytime you drill her. It contains 100% herbal ingredient  and it's used by rich and powerful men all over American & Britain who want to have a bigger egg plant! It gave Segun 6inch in like a just 3 weeks! Are You sick and tired of carry a tiny size blokos? Do you want a Python Sized manhood that will make her scream when ever they pop out? Is she complaining that your manhood is small with her faces?  Then get this Gel & use it as prescribed, she will be the one begging you to stop! **It cost's Uncle Segun N20,000 to bring it in (he actually got 2 pcs) (#2) Indian god Oil (AKA 2 Mins Manliness Killer) Indian god oil spray is an 100% Natural Premature ejaculation spray  instantly allows you to last as long as 40 mins on any woman. Use this and watch how your woman  worshiping you, because you'll be able to drill her honey pot  for as long as 40 mins to take her to "cloud 9"! Go here=> http://naijamenparol.com/sunad1/ With Indian god Oil spray, you are sure to last long so that you can try different styles with her (she will even be the one to give you styles!)  Get this Spray & use it as prescribed, she will be the one begging you to stop!  **It cost over Dr Segun over N17,000 to get one, and he got 2 cos his matter is very serious. See Testimonies of People Who Have Used it….   Remember it cost me a fortune to bring this product in right? But guess what? You are NOT getting it at a FRACTION of that price, but rather you'll get it at an affordable price so you too can have a well endowed package!  So How  much will the Amazing 2-in-1 package cost you?  Originally the 2-in-1 Solution costs=> N37,000 But we are doing a 5 day end of Year Bonanza, so if you act fast and get it today, you'll get if for just….  "N23,000 ONLY!"  If you are getting JUST one of them… ***(1) XXL Enlagment Gel==> N15,000  (Instead of N20,000!)  ***(2) Indian god Oil==> N15,000  (instead of N17,000!) 2-in-1 Cost's N23,000  As if that's not Enough…  Do you know that when you grab the 2-in-1 offer, you'll get a free E-BOOK  called…  "Massive Blokos Secret" Apply the NATURAL Manhood Enlargement Techniques in this E-guide Along Side   XXL Gel, I promise, you'll get a Massive Blokos…GUARANTEED! How  Can You Get It? Simple! Send  the info below  a  SMS  to = => 0812-6546-141  ***2 in 1 solution* (if you want JUST 1 item do this:-**XXL GEL**/**Indian god oil**) ***Your Name*Your Delivery Address*Local Govt*Active Phone No.  ***All to=> 0812-6546-141  ***SHIPPING IS FREE!  TO Eliminate the Fear of Scam we ONLY do Payment on Delivery You will  pay when you see the  product by our courier company.                   “Payment on Delivery Is Accepted All Over The Nation”Once I receive your details, our partner courier company will bring the item to your address in 3 – 5 days! For privacy, we packaged the solution in a way that no body will know what’s inside it except you! Cool Right? But you’ll be dulling yourself by not taking action right away as the remaining pcs will not last the next 5 days. Here’s How to Place your Order today… Just Send the below SMS Info to=> 0812-6546-141  ***2 in 1 solution* (if you want JUST 1 item do this:-**XXL Gel**/**Indian god oil**)**Your Name*Your Delivery Address**Your Local Govt***Active Phone No. All to=> 0812-6546-141 ***NOTE: Your address Must Include Local Government and State. Detailed Enough to make it traceable by our courier company that will come around to deliver to you! **An Agent  will call within 24 hours to confirm your order & Shipping it To You.  ***Delivery Time? ***Lagos=> 24-48 Hours ***Outside Lagos=> 3-5 Working Days  Have  any  questions  about  this  offer? Call our agents on 08126546141 for prompt answers. Better act fast you'll have to act fast as the price shoots up…in 5 days! So there you go…all you need is JUST N25,000 to be a real man with a Python size Blokos that can drill ANY woman with total confidence! With the all new " Amazing 2-in-1 Solution"  you are good to rock that babe! Go HERE==> http://naijamenparol.com/sunad1/   OR… Here’s How to Place your Order today…  Just Send the below SMS Info to=> 0812-6546-141  ***2 in 1 solution* (if you want JUST 1 item do this:-**XXL Gel**/**Indain god oil**)**Your Name*Your Delivery Address**Your Local Govt***Active Phone No.  All to=> 0812-6546-141 ***NOTE: Your address Must Include Local Government and State. Detailed Enough to make it traceable by our courier company that will come around to deliver to you! Thanks to the Amazing 2-in-1 Solution, I have stopped cheating on him, and he give me the best sex in the world like no one (even the witty Remi can't stand near him again!) If you are a man, or you are a woman facing this ugly situation in your marriage or relationship, hurry up and get this amazing 2-in-1 solution an see the drastic increase in size & last longer than normal! I want to publicly apologize to my sweet husband Segun for cheating on him, it's not my fault, it's the work of the devil. But now I've been liberated by his super huge blokos. To the men in the House..I Strongly advice you to take advantage of the insane offer to be a Better man…NOW! Go here for more info==> http://naijamenparol.com/sunad1/ OR Place Your Order Now!  ***2 in 1 solution* (if you want JUST 1 item do this:-**XXL Gel**/**Indain god oil**)**Your Name*Your Delivery Address**Your Local Govt***Active Phone No.  All to=> 0812-6546-141  ***NOTE: Your address Must Include Local Government and State. Detailed Enough to make it traceable by our courier company that will come around to deliver to you! P.S: Now You Can Drill Your Woman and make her go gaga and beg for more with the ultimate fast action 2-in-1 solution=> http://naijamenparol.com/sunad1/  P.S: Why not be the man you have always wanted to be? Go one…go grab your own pcs of the amazing 2-in-1 solution Now before it's all sold out!   The post Shocking! How Small Blokos Made Banker Lose His Wife & His Life to An Agbero! appeared first on Vanguard News.

RSSFWD - From RSS to Inbox

Vanguard News

Your RSS feed from RSSFWD.com.	Update your RSS subscription

Vanguard News 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 EFCC arrests three suspected internet fraudsters 1:13:59 PM Okogba The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibadan Zonal Office has apprehended a gang of internet fraudsters comprising the trio of Davies Ayomide Rapheal, Adeyemi Adewumi Segun and Oyewole Segun who allegedly engage in phony online purchases from designated auction sites. The suspects confessed to have accomplices abroad. They were arrested by the operatives of the Commission at different locations following tip-off. Rapheal, the arrow head of the gang, prowls on the internet particularly on Craigslist- an online sale and purchase sites, where items ranging from cars and furniture are being displayed for sale. His words: "I usually pose like a genuine buyer and engage any seller in a bid to purchase a car. After the seller had agreed to the terms of purchase, I go online to edit any PayPal receipt online to reflect whatever agreement reached which includes cost of purchase and the accrued percentage for shipping. Our cohorts abroad, collect the shipping cost which had been added to the cost of the car on the PayPal receipt and send it to either Adeyemi or Oyewole who receives it in Nigeria for us to share. An indigene of Ipetumodu, Osun State, Raphael, 27, said he had to recruit his co-travelers, Adeyemi and Oyewole into the Syndicate in order to raise money to pursue his dream of becoming a music star, having dropped out of school. He confessed to have made about N2.5million from the various scams from which he bought a car, Honda Accord (EOD) with registration number EKY437EA, and a Phantom 5 phone. Adeyemi and Oyewole who hail from Ondo and Ibadan respectively, also confessed to be members of the Syndicate. Aside being part of the auction scam, Adeyemi, 27, stated that he was also into romance scam and had fleeced some unsuspecting victims of their money, the latest being $250 that he got from an Australian. On his part, Oyewole, 31, confessed that he collects their proceeds through his account domiciled in one of the new generation banks. According to him, his share in the latest 'deal' was N247,000 which was ten percent of the sum realised. The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigation is concluded. The post EFCC arrests three suspected internet fraudsters appeared first on Vanguard News. See virile video that landed Lagos socialite, Pretty Mike in Police net 1:07:17 PM Ikenna After several weeks of setting the social media abuzz with photos and videos showing his putting girls on dog chains to events, the long arms of the law has finally caught up with BDSM activist and Lagos socialite, Mike Eze-Nwalie Nwogu, popularly known as 'Pretty Mike.' BDSM includes bondage and discipline (B&D), dominance and submission (D&S), and sadism & masochism (S&M). The 30-year-old owner of Club Uno, Ikeja, had set tongues wagging on social media with his acts, which perhaps drew the intervention of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State who ordered his arrest by the Police, yesterday. Pretty Mike, said to be cooperating with investigation and had given useful statement to the Police, was released after signing an undertaking to desist from the act. See below the virile video posted by Facebook user, Adeola Fayehun: The post See virile video that landed Lagos socialite, Pretty Mike in Police net appeared first on Vanguard News. Ambode orders arrest of Pretty Mike for putting girls on dog chains 12:38:16 PM Ikenna By Rita Chioma After much heated argument and controversy that trailed 30-year-old club owner, Mike Eze-Nwalie Nwogu popularly known as 'Pretty Mike', for putting girls on chain to events, the long arms of the law has finally caught up with him. Pretty-Mike Mike, was apprehended for dehumanizing young girls by turning them into human puppies with chains round their necks. He was arrested yesterday, by the police on the orders of the Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode. Nwogu was said to be cooperating with investigation and had given useful statement to the police and was released after signing an undertaking to desist from the act The undertaking read in part: "I, Mike Eze Nwalie, A.K.A Pretty Mike of 21A Magodo GRA, Luma Street, do hereby undertake to stop whatever act of putting girls on a leash or any other degrading treatment to ladies and guys. I am aware that such act offends the law of the State of Lagos and if I repeat it again, there will be legal act towards me. I undertake to issue a letter of apology to the public effective from tomorrow on all my social media platforms."  Speaking on the matter, the State's Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Adeniji Kazeem said the State Government will not tolerate any anti-social behavior that attempt to dehumanize any citizen in the State. Kazeem restated the government's determination to prosecute any individual or group of persons who violate any law of the State under any guise. "The Lagos State Government is committed to the protection of the rights of all citizens including children, women and all the vulnerable persons in the State," Kazeem said. The post Ambode orders arrest of Pretty Mike for putting girls on dog chains appeared first on Vanguard News. Actor Gideon Okeke slams Chinwetalu Agu over vulgar comments in movies 12:13:45 PM Okogba Tinsel star and Nollywood actor Gideon Okeke took to his Instagram page to bash veteran actor Chiwetalu Agu for his incessant use of vulgar slangs in his movies. According to Gideon, Chinwetalu Agu's vulgarity is no longer funny as young kids also watch his movies. He also came after directors and producers who give Chinwetalu Agu the freedom to use those slangs in movies. Gideon has however deleted his post after fans of the comic actor came for him. Read Gideon’s post below. Gideon Okeke & Chinwetalu Agu “You know him as the wicked uncle in film. But I know to check the sanity of my mind and ears whenever he comes on screen. I’m a fan of his and also a film person, but the measure of liberty this dear actor enjoys from directors and producers (within Nollywood) to improve vulgarities in movies is not funny to me anymore as an audience member. Hiding behind the pretext that not all of your audience understand Igbo Language, is no licence to throw decorum out of the window. Our job is not only to entertain, but to educate, inform and propagate culture, by subtly reshaping perceptions. This is a case for the Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) and our movie channels that play  eyes-right to the demographic ratings 13, 16, 18 or PG. Watch Chinwetalu Agu again…You will reckon. He is funny no doubt, but the kids are watching, adults are cringing. NFVCB must be sleeping. Not all content is day time content. I may be wrong, but that’s my view.” The post Actor Gideon Okeke slams Chinwetalu Agu over vulgar comments in movies appeared first on Vanguard News. Zero Hunger project'll conquer hunger, poverty by 2030- Obasanjo 12:01:54 PM adekunle …11 million children have stunted growth- Minister By Gabriel Ewepu ABUJA- FORMER President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, yesterday, said Zero Hunger will conquer hunger and poverty by 2030 in Nigeria. Obasanjo Obasanjo made the call at the launch of 'Nigeria Zero Hunger Strategic Review 2030 Launching and Press Conference', where he stated that the forum is geared towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal, SDG, 2, which emphasises prominence of food security and nutrition in member states. He said the forum which consists of the Ministries of Agriculture and Health, African Development Bank, AfDB, Tony Elumelu Foundation, Obasanjo Foundation, Dangote Group, and others will physically be on the field to monitor implementation of the Zero Hunger Project in the four pilot states under the programme, which are Benue, Ebonyi, Ogun and Sokoto. He said: "We are here to begin a new journey that will redefine the destiny of hundreds of millions of people in Africa in general, and in Nigeria in particular. This day is significant as we put our efforts to launch the Nigeria Zero Hunger roadmap that will unlock the potential of our nation and emancipate our dear country from the shackles of hunger and poverty. "There has never been a shortage of good prescriptions and reports for reducing hunger in Nigeria but the implementation of these have been poor and unsustained. This time around and with the establishment of Nigeria Zero Hunger Forum based at IITA, we will ensure that recommendations contained in this Synthesis Report and the individual sub-committee Reports are implemented. We must do all we can so that this effort does not suffer the fate of previous endeavours. "I expect that the actions recommended in our report will be implemented in all the 36 states plus Abuja starting in January 2017. The Nigeria Zero Hunger will Forum will support, encourage and monitor progress in Benue, Ebonyi, Ogun and Sokoto States during 2017 and 2018. The governors of these states have already agreed that they will make implementing Zero Hunger Roadmap a priority." Earlier in his remarks, the Minister of Health, Prof Isaac Adewole, warned that 2.5 million children may be killed by malnutrition if nothing will be done to rescue them. "Indeed achieving zero hunger in Nigeria is imperative. Tackling malnutrition and food insecurity is critical to the growth and development of our country. Nigeria has the highest number of stunted children under age five in sub-Saharan Africa, and the second highest in the world. "Today, we estimate that there are about 11 million children who are stunted in Nigeria. In addition, we have an estimated 2.5 million children under the age of five with severe acute malnutrition in Nigeria. "If nothing is done, about half a million of these children will die. About 90 per cent of these children are in 13 states of North East and North West regions of the country. "The sad irony is that these regions provide the bulk of the food that feeds this nation. Could it be there is something we are missing or something we are not doing right? To end hunger it is important to address the food deficit in the country. "I hasten to note that at this point that good nutrition is a result of three underlying conditions; household food security, adequate primary health services and optimal care and support", Adewole stated. The post Zero Hunger project'll conquer hunger, poverty by 2030- Obasanjo appeared first on Vanguard News. Trump picks high-risk fight crucial intelligence services 11:57:03 AM adekunle Not yet president, Donald Trump has picked a high-risk fight with the all-important US intelligence community, blaming them for an incendiary but unsubstantiated report on his alleged links with Moscow and salacious behavior in Russia. Trump accused US spies of leaking the report, a dossier prepared for US politicians by a British private consultant, to US media to sabotage him, calling it “disgraceful” and likening their alleged action to Germany’s Nazi regime. Trump’s outburst prompted a late night call from National Intelligence Director James Clapper, who told Trump he did not believe the leak came from the intelligence agencies. TRUMP Clapper said in a statement that he agreed with Trump that recent leaks to the press “are extremely corrosive and damaging to our national security.” However, he said, “I emphasized that this document is not a US Intelligence Community product and that I do not believe the leaks came from within the IC,” he said. – Salacious dossier – One week before he is inaugurated as US president, Trump has been rocked by the dossier, which a former British MI6 intelligence agent prepared originally as opposition research for other US politicians. The 35-page dossier alleges longstanding communications between Russian officials and the Trump campaign, and that Russian intelligence has lurid videos of Trump with prostitutes in Russia. None of the allegations are substantiated, but it was serious enough that US intelligence investigated them and included its own conclusions in a top secret briefing to Trump last Friday on Russia’s meddling in the US election and hacking into Democratic Party computers to do so. Trump exploded Tuesday when media reported that some allegations in the dossier were included in the briefing, which was presented by Clapper with the heads of the CIA, FBI and National Security Agency. The dossier was then published online by Buzzfeed, adding to the president-elect’s outrage. “Intelligence agencies should never have allowed this fake news to ‘leak’ into the public. One last shot at me. Are we living in Nazi Germany?” Trump tweeted early Wednesday. He repeated the accusation hours later in a press conference. “I think it was disgraceful — disgraceful that the intelligence agencies allowed any information that turned out to be so false and fake out.” “I think it’s a disgrace, and I say that — and I say that, and that’s something that Nazi Germany would have done and did do.” His blasts against the intelligence community came after his repeated rejections of their conclusion that Russia had interfered with last year’s election, a position he appeared to reverse on Wednesday. Clapper, whose office coordinates 16 other spy agencies, stressed in his statement that those bodies had “not made any judgment that the information in this document is reliable.” But analysts say the four spy chiefs would not have raised the dossier in their briefing for Trump if they saw it was unfounded. Clapper himself suggested as much. “Part of our obligation is to ensure that policymakers are provided with the fullest possible picture of any matters that might affect national security,” he said. – ‘Alarm bell’ – White House spokesman Josh Earnest said impugning the integrity of the intelligence services was “deeply misguided.” “Doesn't mean they're always right, but questioning their motives is another thing altogether,” he said Wednesday. Former CIA and NSA officials and members of Congress also have roundly scolded Trump for picking a fight with the intelligence community, essential to his running government. “Over the course of the election campaign, and even after it, the CIA and the entire intelligence community has been repeatedly and unfairly subjected to criticism of its integrity. These comments have affected the morale of these men and women,” said Senator Mark Warner, Vice Chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, on Thursday. Former CIA deputy director John McLaughlin wrote in an opinion piece Wednesday on the Real Clear World website that Trump’s views were an “alarm bell” for the incoming government. Trump’s distrust of his spies, he said, indicate “that the next four years could prove especially challenging for America's intelligence professionals.” pmh/jm The post Trump picks high-risk fight crucial intelligence services appeared first on Vanguard News. US sanctions 18 over Syrian chemical weapons use – White House 11:44:35 AM adekunle The United States announced sanctions Thursday against 18 senior Syrian military officers and officials over the use of chemical weapons. “We condemn in the strongest possible terms the Syrian regime's use of chemical weapons,” said National Security Council spokesman Ned Price. Individuals targeted include top intelligence officials and military commanders. The post US sanctions 18 over Syrian chemical weapons use – White House appeared first on Vanguard News. Army to launch operation Kunama 11 in Southern Kaduna 11:40:22 AM adekunle …to rename Operation Python Dance in South-East By Levinus Nwabughiogu ABUJA-To completely restore peace in the troubled Southern Kaduna, Nigerian Army has said it would launch Operation Kaunama 11 in the area. It also stated that the military exercise in the South-East code-named “Operation Python Dance” would be renamed while still carrying out other undergoing engagements across the country. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Yusuf Bruntai made the disclosure while fielding questions from State House correspondents at the end of the Security Council meeting presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari at the presidential Villa, Abuja on Thursday. He said that the exercise in Southern Kaduna would be extended to Plateau and Kano States. He said: “Our troops are already in Southern Kaduna. We have our special forces operating there along with all other security agencies and we intend also to have an exercise very soon in Southern Kaduna to cover some part of Plateau and indeed part of Kano State. So, it is part of our strategy for this year to continue all the exercises we have had before. “We will be having exercise Kunama 11 which will come into Southern Kaduna State and part of Plateau and Kano state. “Croccodile smile in the Niger Delta and indeed the Python dance, but we are going to rename the Python Dance for the South East this year also.” Speaking on the Sambisa forest, the Army chief stated that troops were still on the ground, combing the area according to their mandate. “We are continuing our operations in that area, Lafiya Dole mandate and the troops are still moving all over the area. “The directive is there. We are still pursuing it and it is a task we must accomplish at all cost”. Also speaking on the outcome of the Security Council meeting earlier, Minister of Defence, Mansur Dan-Ali said that some resolutions were taken in the Niger Delta crisis. He however did not state the resolutions. “Major security issue were discussed and we were able to come to conclusion on almost all the crises that are going on across the country. “The Southern Kaduna, the Niger Delta issues and other major crises areas were discussed and resolutions were passed. “Like I said in the Southern Kaduna we have our troops being moved and they have already taken places. Negotiation is going on and I believe that very soon, it will come to an end. On the Gambian crisis, the Minister added that the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS were working on the matter. “That is not a national issue and I believe the ECOWAS are working on that. We have not reached any conclusion on that”, he said. The meeting attracted the Chief of Defence State, three Service Chiefs, and the Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General of Department of State Service. The post Army to launch operation Kunama 11 in Southern Kaduna appeared first on Vanguard News. Facebook murder: Osokogu verdict soon 11:17:01 AM Tony Judgment  day in the trial of four men accused of the murder of Cynthia Osokogu, a student of Nasarawa State University, has been fixed for 23 March. Osokogu was murdered on July 22, 2012 at Cosmilla Hotel, Lakeview Estate, Festac Town, Lagos, by her Facebook lover. The defendants are: Okwumo Nwabufo, 33; Olisaeloka Ezike, 23; Orji Osita, 33, and Ezike Nonso, 25. They are facing a six-count charge bordering on conspiracy, murder, stealing, recklessness, negligence and possession of stolen goods. At the resumed trial on Thursday, Justice Olabisi Akinlade of the Lagos High Court sitting at Igbosere,  adjourned for judgment after the adoption of the final written addresses by all the counsel. Akinlade had frowned at the delay by the second defendant's counsel, Mr A. Nwachukwu, in filing his final written address. She pointed out that the court would not entertain delay tactics from any counsel to forestall justice in all cases. Mr Victor Okpara, who spoke for all the defence counsel, said that the trial was fair and they expected their clients to be discharged and acquitted. The murder trial began on Feb. 8, 2013, with the state calling the hotel's receptionist as the first witness. The body of late Cynthia Osokogu,24,  the only daughter of General Frank Osokogu (rtd) was discovered in a Lagos morgue a month after she was declared missing by her family. She was a post-graduate student  of Nasarawa State University and had a boutique in Nasarawa State until her death.   The post Facebook murder: Osokogu verdict soon appeared first on Vanguard News. Gov. Okowa assures of continuous peace in Niger Delta 11:14:54 AM Okogba Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta has assured that the state government was committed to ensuring continuous peace in the Niger Delta region. The governor spoke on Thursday in Asaba when the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Stuart Syminton, paid him a courtesy visit. He said that the state government`s efforts in ensuring an enduring peace was already yielding good results. The governor said that in the past four months, pipeline vandalism had not been experienced in the creeks, especially those in Delta. Gov Ifeanyi Okowa Okowa expressed confidence that the prevailing peace in the creeks would be sustained. ''We are doing a lot to ensure that we have peace and it is our hope that we will sustain peace; it is in our best interest to do so. ''We are looking forward to a peaceful and progressive 2017, it is in the collective interest of all stakeholders for the peace to be sustained.'' He commended the U.S. government for doing business in Nigeria, particularly in Delta. The governor assured investors that Delta was safe for business, more so when the people were friendly and accommodating to visitors. Earlier, Syminton, who led other top embassy officials, disclosed that they were in the state to see how to deepen their business relationships with the people. The post Gov. Okowa assures of continuous peace in Niger Delta appeared first on Vanguard News. Germany pledges to make more young Nigerians employable 11:07:17 AM Tony Mr Stephen Awoyele, Project Coordinator for the German Dual Vocational Training Partnership with Nigeria, on Thursday expressed his government's commitment to providing more technical training to young Nigerians, to enhance their employability. Awoyele told newsmen in Lagos that the German Government had since 2012 been working with the Organised Private Sector and the Industrial Training Fund(ITF) in youth skills development. The  coordinator announced his government's plan to expand the skills development programme to the organised private sector and other partners across Nigeria, this year, so that more young Nigerians would benefit from it. "This programme has the objective of increasing the qualification and employability of young men and women in Nigeria. "We have observed that there are a lot of skill gaps in many companies, as well as a dearth of skilled labour to fill these skill gaps. "So, a lot of organisations are partnering with us in training apprentices to fill these gaps. "We have so far trained about 350 trainers in the organised private sector and companies, as well as 265 apprentices for different organisations in Abuja, Lagos and Ogun States,'' he said. Awoyele said that the success so far recorded by the programme in Abuja, Lagos and Ogun States, was encouraging the German government and its partner organisations to expand it to other parts of Nigeria. The German Government official said that the programme was already being sought for from other States, adding that his organisation would this year extend its training to more young Nigerians. He said that the organisation would sustain its skills development programmes in industrial electronics, industrial mechanics, maintenance and technical facilities management, project management and office management, this year. Awoyele said that the beneficiaries were immediately after their one year industrial training programmes, absorbed as full-time employees in the organisations.   The post Germany pledges to make more young Nigerians employable appeared first on Vanguard News. Buhari meets with Security Chiefs over Kaduna killings, Jammeh 11:04:27 AM Tony President, Muhammadu Buhari has met with the Security Chiefs at the Presidential Villa in Abuja over the recent killings in Southern Kaduna. Among the issues discussed at the meeting were the prevailing insecurity challenges in southern Kaduna, the Niger Delta and other parts of the country. The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Dan-Ali who made this known after the meeting with the President  said that troops have been moved to Southern Kaduna while negotiations are on-going to end the killings in the area. Commenting on whether Nigeria will send a stand-by troop to the Gambia should there be violence if Gambia's President, Yahaya Jammeh refuses to step down, the Defence Minister said that no conclusion has been reached on the issue yet. He added that the matter of forceful removal of President Yahyah Jammeh is to be handled by the ECOWAS regional body. The clarification follows reports that Nigeria has assembled about 800 troops to effect the removal of President Jammeh, if he insists on remaining in power after January 19, 2017   The post Buhari meets with Security Chiefs over Kaduna killings, Jammeh appeared first on Vanguard News. Kudirat: S-Court grants Lagos leave to re-open case against Al-Mustapha 10:57:14 AM adekunle By Ikechukwu Nnochiri ABUJA – The Supreme Court, Thursday, gave Lagos State the nod to appeal against the discharge and acquittal of Major Hamza Al-Mustapha over the murder of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola. Al-Mustapha was a former Chief Security Officer, CSO, to the late Military Head of State, General Sani Abacha. He was accused of complicity in the murder of Kudirat, a wife of the presumed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election that was annulled by former President Ibrahim Babangida, late Chief Moshood Abiola. Lagos State approached the apex court, seeking its permission to challenge a Court of Appeal judgment that freed Al-Mustapha on July 12, 2013. The post Kudirat: S-Court grants Lagos leave to re-open case against Al-Mustapha appeared first on Vanguard News. Non- Career ambassadorial nominees: Buhari drops Mamora, Adegboyega Ogunwusi, Ayodeji 10:54:09 AM adekunle By Henry Umoru ABUJA- ALMOST three months after President Muhammadu Buhari sent names of forty- six non career ambassadorial nominees to the Senate for screening and subsequent confirmation, the President yesterday resent a rejigged list of forty six. In the new list, name of former Deputy Minority leader of the Senate, Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora was dropped with no replacement. The post Non- Career ambassadorial nominees: Buhari drops Mamora, Adegboyega Ogunwusi, Ayodeji appeared first on Vanguard News. Mamora missing in new list of envoys 10:52:15 AM Tony Justice George Oguntade, a retired Supreme Court Judge, and Dr Olorunnimbe Mamora, former Senator, representing Lagos State, have been dropped in the new list of non-career ambassadorial nominees,  sent to the Senate by President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday. The upper chamber had rejected the old list presented two months ago, following the outcry by APC governors and even some senators about their not being consulted before the list was drawn. One of the nominees, Pauline Tallen, a former deputy governor of Plateau State, also rejected her nomination. Senator Olorunimbe Mamora Also missing in the new list is Adegboyega Ogunwusi, an elder brother of the Ooni of Ife, Enitan Ogunwusi. While states such as Lagos, Kwara, Katsina, Plateau, Kaduna, Kano, Sokoto and Zamfara have two nominees on the list, the others have one nominee each. Abuja Senator, Phillip Aduda thanked Buhari for nominating an indigene of Abuja this time in the new list, after Senate President, Bukola Saraki read the list. Aduda had attacked the old list because it excluded Abuja. Dr Eniola Ajayi, a former Commissioner for Education, as well as Environment, under Dr. Kayode Fayemi, and House of Reps Candidate (APC 2015), also made the list. He replaced Mr. Ayodele Ayodele, also from Iyin Ekiti. Full List of the new nominees as read by Mr. Saraki: Uzoma Emenike, Abia; Aminu Lawal (Adamawa); Godwin Umoh (Akwa Ibom); Christopher Okeke (Anambra); Yusuf Maitama (Bauchi); Baba Maigudu (Bauchi); Stanley Douye (Bayelsa); Stephen Uba (Benue); Baba Ahmed Gida (Borno); Utobong Asuquo (Cross River); Frank Ofegina (Delta); Joda Udoh (Ebonyi); Yagwe Ede (Edo); Eniola Ajayi (Ekiti); Chris Eze (Enugu); Sulieman Hassan (Gombe); Sylvanus Usofo (Imo); Aminu Dalhatu (Jigawa); Ahmed Bamilli (Kaduna); Deborah Yahaya (Kaduna); Abdulkadir (Kano); Haruna Arungungu (Kano); Musa Udo (Katsina), Mohammed Rimi (Katsina); Tijani Bande (Kebbi); Aliu (Kogi); Nurudeen Mohammed (Kwara), Mohammed Isa (Kwara); Adesola Omotade (Lagos); Modupe Remi (Lagos); Musa Mohammed (Nasarawa); Ahmed Ibeto; Niger; Susan Aderonke Folarin (Ogun); Jacob Daudu (Ondo); Afolayon Adeyemi (Osun); Olaniyi (Oyo); James Dmika (Plateau); Haruna Abdullahi (Plateau); Orji Ngofa (Rivers); Sahibi Isa Dada (Sokoto); Kabir Umar (Sokoto); Jika Ado (Taraba); Goni Zana (Yobe); Garba T. (Zamfara); Bala Mohammad (Zamfara); and Ibrahim Dada (FCT).   The post Mamora missing in new list of envoys appeared first on Vanguard News. We'll continue to ensure a safe Osun – Aregbesola 10:43:54 AM Tony Osun state Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, on Wednesday, reiterated the commitment of his government to further cooperate with the police and other security agencies in the interest of peace and security in the state. Ogbeni Aregbesola stated this while playing host to the new Assistant Inspector General of police, Zone 11 in charge of Osun, Ondo and Oyo who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House in Osogbo. He described the police as a unique arm of security because they are part of the people in the community who are only separated by their uniform in the process of ensuring law and order in the society. Cross section of Armoured Personnel Carriera distributed to the State Mobile Police Force by the Administration of Governor Rauf Aregbesola. “Despite the fact that there is still a lot of room for improvement, the police force have shown a lot of efficiency in the discharge of their duties. The Nigerian police have, to a great extent, helped to reduce tension to the nearest minimum even in the face of the economic recession hitting the country,” he said. Governor Aregbesola assured that the present administration in the state will continue to support the police because they are partners in the process of ensuring that Osun remains the safest state in the country. Earlier in his remarks, the Assistant Inspector General of police, Zone 11, Mr. Paul Okafor, stated that the Command in Osun and the zone will continue to ensure the security of the state. “I will do my best to ensure that Osun and environs continue to remain peaceful and secured, by the grace of God we will not fail. Being the headquarters of the zone, if we succeed in keeping Osun secured, it means we have succeeded in the zone as a whole.” Mr. Okafor said.‎ Recall that the government of Osun under Aregbesola invested billions of Naira in the purchase of security equipment for various security agencies in the state. Available reports reveal that Osun state is now adjudged the most peaceful in Nigeria as the investment in security is now paying off.   The post We'll continue to ensure a safe Osun – Aregbesola appeared first on Vanguard News. My husband says God revealed to him that our daughter should not be educated 10:34:05 AM Tony The Ile-Tuntun Customary Court in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Thursday dissolved a 25-year-old marriage between one Mary, a mother of two and her husband, Apostle Ayoku Israel, over insensitivity and claims by the husband that God revealed to him not to have their daughter educated. Mr Henric Agbaje, the president of the court, held that it was obvious that there was no more love between the couple, hence, the need for the dissolution. The arbitrator warned the duo against any form of harassment and awarded the custody of the female child of the marriage to Mary for motherly care. He, however, asked Ayoku to take charge of the 16 year-old male child. Mary resides at Amunloko area while her husband, Ayoku lives at Olunloyo area of Ibadan. In her earlier submission to the court, Mary said her husband had, for their 25 years of marriage, been insensitive to anything happening to her and he had refused to send their children to school. "My lord, I was sick for seven years, Ayoku neither bothered to know my whereabouts nor give me anything for treatment. "Ayoku did not marry me legally; he did nothing to know my parents and even refused my bearing his name. "Worst still, he had refused to give quality education to our first child, who is already 24 years old. "Ayoku had always argued that the Lord revealed to him that the girl should not be educated but should engage in petty trading. "I have been solely responsible for the education of the child that is in school. "Instead, Ayoku keeps moving from one mountain to another for his so-called evangelism. "Please my lord, give me custody of the two children for proper care,'' Mary said. However, Ayoku who agreed with the divorce; denied all the allegations levelled against him by his wife. "I sent money to her through her elder sister when she was sick and I have been responsible for the children's education. "The two children are in court, they can testify to it,'' Ayoku said.   The post My husband says God revealed to him that our daughter should not be educated appeared first on Vanguard News. 5 things you need to know about artificial intelligence 10:27:41 AM Tony The next big thing in the technology world is artificial intelligence (AI). Big tech organisations like Apple and Google are aggressively investing in AI. Google has been partnering Oxford University to expand Artificial Intelligence. Some examples of everyday AI include iPhone Siri and Microsoft Windows 10 Cortana. Before going further, it will not be out of place to define AI. Wikipedia simply describes AI as 'intelligence exhibited by machine". It further explained that the term AI is applied when a machine mimics cognitive functions that humans associate with other human minds such as learning and problem solving. Now AI is trending. Therefore, Jumia Travel shares five things you should know about AI as it would soon become an important part of our daily life just like social media. AI was coined in 1956 The first ever mention of AI was in 1956. John McCarthy was famously quoted at a conference at Dartmouth College, in Hanover, New Hampshire as saying: 'As soon as it works, no one calls it Artificial Intelligence." Since its mention, AI has pretty much been evolving to become a popular phenomenon today. Robots will do your job Perhaps the time is here when human presence will not be required to provide services. It will be the job of Robots to provide the service. A good example of this is the Henn-na hotel in Japan which is the first ever robot-staffed hotel in the world whereby the reception desk is staffed by Robotic Dinosaur. So, be prepared. Autonomous vehicles will be the poster tech of AI The overall functions of autonomous vehicles are premised on Artificial Intelligence. If Google and car companies eventually perfect their driverless car’s technology, it will be a huge boost thus making AI commercially viable. This may even encourage more companies to embrace AI. In fact, driverless cars are already being tested in the United States. There will no more error in saving lives This is important in the area of medicine. There are reported cases in which fatal mistakes by doctors have led to the death of patients. For example, in Vietnam recently, a man had a pair of surgical scissors removed from his stomach left during an operation 18 years ago. With machine performing surgery, there will be nothing like error or mistakes in saving lives. So the fear of world famous astrophysicist, Prof Stephen Hawking that the development of AI means the end of humanity is unfounded. Computer will be as smart as humans If you think computers are smart now, you have to reconsider your stance. It is projected that by 2040, computers will be as smart as humans. Thanks largely to Artificial Intelligence.   The post 5 things you need to know about artificial intelligence appeared first on Vanguard News. Continental Cups: NFF to inspect Enugu, Bauchi, Nnewi, Port Harcourt stadia 10:24:14 AM Okogba All the venues being proposed for home matches by Clubs representing Nigeria in African competitions this year will be inspected by officials of the Nigeria Football Federation. This was the agreement reached at the end of a meeting of NFF officials and officials of the four Clubs (Rangers International, Rivers United, FC IfeanyiUbah and Wikki Tourists) at the NFF Secretariat, Abuja on Wednesday. Deliberations centred on match venues, stadium readiness, team preparation, team travel and accommodation, logistics, match officials travel and accommodation, communication with NFF and officials of the opposition team, safety, security and medical provisions. NFF's Director of Competitions, Mr. Bola Oyeyode briefed officials of the four Clubs on requirements of the Confederation of African Football, and harped on the importance of being fully prepared in all the noted areas in order not to attract avoidable sanctions and unpleasant experience during their campaigns. NPFL champions Rangers International will fly the country's flag in the CAF Champions League alongside second –placed Rivers United, while Federation Cup winners FC IfeanyiUbah and League third place –finishers Wikki Tourists will campaign in the CAF Confederation Cup. The Flying Antelopes propose to make use of the 25,000 –capacity Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium (The Cathedral) for their home matches, with Rivers United opting for the Yakubu Gowon Stadium (16,000 capacity) in Port Harcourt and Wikki Tourists decided on the 18,000 –capacity Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi. FC IfeanyiUbah, nicknamed Anambra Warriors and the only privately –owned Club among the four, will host home matches at the 17,000 –capacity Ifeanyi Ubah International Stadium, Nnewi. Oyeyode noted that none of the four stadia had been previously homologated by the Confederation of African Football, hence the need for NFF to inspect the venues well ahead of the African competitions. The Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Bauchi State, Hon. Ibrahim Madaki Sale led the Wikki Tourists delegation, which also included Director of Sports Lawal Garba, Bauchi FA chairman Yahuza Adamu Ningi, Chairman of Wikki FC Isa Musa Matori and FA secretary Ibrahim Garba. Enugu FA chairman Chidi Ofo Okenwa led the Rangers' delegation that also had Rangers Ag. Chairman Steve Oruruo and Amobi Ezeaku. Vice chairman of Anambra FA, Barr. J. B. C. Obikwelu and FC IfeanyiUbah team manager Igwe Jonathan stood in for the Anambra Warriors, while Rivers State FA secretary Ibigoni Benjamin-Akubo represented Rivers United. The first leg, first round of this year's African club competitions will take place on the weekend of 9th – 11th February. The post Continental Cups: NFF to inspect Enugu, Bauchi, Nnewi, Port Harcourt stadia appeared first on Vanguard News. New Senate Leader seeks colleagues' cooperation 10:20:27 AM Okogba The new Senate Leader, Sen. Ahmed Lawan, has called on his colleagues to cooperate with him in his new capacity to deliver the dividends of democracy to Nigerians. Lawan, who made the call at plenary on Thursday, also urged them to work in a bi-partisan manner in the interest of all Nigerians. He said, "Nigeria is our country, it doesn't belong to APC, it belongs to Nigerians". He further called on his colleagues to collaborate to make life better for Nigerians by making laws that would improve the security of the people and ensure the nation's economic growth. "We should put our hands together and ensure stability in the country. "I urge the cooperation and understanding of my colleagues. "The Senate started on a shaky foundation, it will end on a solid, stable and successful foundation,"he said. Ahmed-Lawan Lawan commended his colleagues for giving him the opportunity to serve in that capacity. "I thank the APC caucus for having confidence and trust in my judgement and ability to serve as leader of the Senate. "I say to the opposition that what the APC caucus has done is for all of us. I am not a leader for the APC caucus; I am a leader of the Senate. "It is the will of God and we as religious people believe in destiny. Reacting, the Minority Leader, Sen. Godswill Akpabio (PDP Akwa-Ibom), said that the PDP caucus believed that the elevation of Sen. Lawan would end "all the grumblings and disaffection affecting the 8th Senate.'' "We are delighted. We want to note that in spite the situations, the Senate is focused on national issues. "We are implementing issues on bi-partisan basis. We will continue to remain bi-partisan where the interests of Nigerians are concerned. "We will support the Senate, the APC caucus and President Muhammadu Buhari on things we believe will take Nigerians out of economic recession." Akpabio, however, urged the senate leader to carry all lawmakers along in the discharge of his duties. In a remark, the President of the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki, assured Lawan of his colleagues' support. He commended former Senate Leader Sen. Ali Ndume for his service to the Senate and for his statesmanship in accepting his fate. The post New Senate Leader seeks colleagues' cooperation appeared first on Vanguard News.

RSSFWD - From RSS to Inbox