A tragic incident unfolded in Gana town, Zamfara State, as no fewer than 46 individuals, including women and children, were abducted during a violent raid. The attack, which occurred around 10 p.m. on Sunday, saw a large group of gunmen storm the town on motorbikes, firing indiscriminately and setting multiple homes and businesses ablaze, according to reports from Reuters. This recent abduction echoes a similar incident just a month prior when 43 people were kidnapped by armed men in Kakidawa, Gidan Goga district, located in the Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Eyewitness accounts reveal that the assailants fired gunshots sporadically, causing widespread panic as residents fled into nearby bushes for safety. The attackers then conducted a systematic house-to-house search, capturing women and children who couldn’t escape. The northern region of Nigeria has faced a troubling surge in ransom-related kidnappings in recent times. In a related development, security forces launched an offensive against terrorists in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State last month. The operation, driven by weeks of intelligence gathering, targeted multiple terrorist hideouts. Several terrorists were reportedly neutralized in both ground operations and airstrikes aimed at halting their attempted escape with stolen cattle. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Discover how power shortages, water crises, and the Japa syndrome are affecting Nigeria’s health sector despite increased funding and policy reforms in 2024. The State of Nigeria’s Health Sector: Progress and Persistent Challenges In 2024, Nigeria’s health sector witnessed both positive strides and persistent challenges. While some improvements were evident in basic healthcare services and disease control, several structural issues continued to hinder the sector’s overall performance. Improvements Noted: The government made a notable financial commitment, with ₦2.5 trillion allocated to healthcare between December 2023 and November 2024. However, the effectiveness of this funding remains a subject of debate due to persistent issues in the sector. The Impact of Power and Water Shortages on Healthcare Services A major factor affecting Nigeria’s healthcare system is the unreliable power supply and limited access to clean water. Hospitals and clinics often struggle with inconsistent electricity, leading to compromised medical services. Additionally, poor water infrastructure poses hygiene challenges, increasing the risk of infections and reducing the quality of care provided. Infectious diseases, including new COVID-19 strains and antimicrobial resistance, continue to strain the system, partly due to poor infection control measures exacerbated by these infrastructural gaps. Japa Syndrome and Health Worker Shortages The “Japa” phenomenon, characterized by the mass migration of skilled professionals abroad, has further strained Nigeria’s health system. Doctors, nurses, and healthcare specialists seeking better opportunities overseas have left many rural areas critically understaffed, reducing the quality and availability of healthcare services. The shortage has impacted service delivery in several ways: Healthcare Funding: Is It Enough? While the government increased the health sector budget in 2024, the actual allocation of ₦1.23 trillion was lower than the previous year’s ₦1.3 trillion. Despite efforts to expand primary healthcare centers and improve infrastructure, the sector continues to be underfunded relative to its needs. Policy Efforts and the Road Ahead In 2024, President Bola Tinubu signed reforms aimed at improving healthcare accessibility and affordability under the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII). This policy aims to: Looking ahead to 2025, the government plans to double the number of fully operational Primary Healthcare Centers from 8,809 to 17,618 by 2027, backed by a ₦260 billion investment. However, sustained monitoring and accountability will be key to ensuring this ambitious plan translates into tangible improvements. Conclusion: A Health Sector in Need of Sustained Reforms While Nigeria’s health sector has shown signs of progress, critical challenges persist due to infrastructure deficits, healthcare worker shortages, and underfunding. To achieve lasting improvement, efforts must focus on consistent funding, better working conditions for health professionals, and enhanced public health infrastructure. The hope for 2025 lies in proper execution and monitoring of policies like the Sector-Wide Compact, ensuring that every Nigerian can access quality healthcare without financial strain. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD Arise, cry out in the night: in the beginning of the watches pour out thine heart like water before the face of the Lord: lift up thy hands toward him for the life of thy young children… (Lamentations 2:19) Another mystery revealed to us in the Word is a secret about prayer that God’s people need to understand. In Lamentations 2:19, we see a situation where the people needed deliverance for their children. Observe that the prophet didn’t just say “Cry out; rather, he said, Arise, cry out in the night…. There was a specificity; it had to be at night. There’s something about praying in the night. Even though He didn’t say you should pray every night, there’re specific times when the Holy Spirit will lead you to pray in the night; that’s why walking with the Spirit is so important. Night here isn’t just 9pm or 10 pm; it’s the wee hours of the morning, at the beginning of the watches, that’s after 12 midnight. Notice what He tells you to do at that time of the night: _*”…pour out thine heart like water before the face of the Lord…”*_ (Lamentations 2:19). This is no casual prayer; you pour out your heart before God. Then, what else? “Lift up thy hands toward Him for the life of thy young children.” Some parents have faced situations where a child had become wayward or errant, delinquent and unruly, ensnared by the devil. Don’t stand by helplessly, as if you can’t bring about a change in that child’s life; deal strongly in prayer and deliver your son or daughter. Get up at midnight and pray! Use this secret of prayer that I’m sharing with you now. Lift up your hands and pray that child back into the will of God. Declare that he or she is turned away from the world’s influences, drawn to the Word, and inspired by the things of the Kingdom. Declare that Satan has nothing in your child and that henceforth, the visions of the Spirit will be kindled in the heart of that child, imbuing him or her with the boldness and courage to fulfil divine purpose with joy. Perhaps it’s sickness or disease that has taken hold of that child; you must deliver that child in prayer. Pray this way and the Lord will intervene in the situation and restore the child to perfection. The instruction is for you to pour out your heart and lift up your hands toward God at night. This is how you take charge and bring deliverance to your children. Hallelujah! *PRAYER* *Dear Father, I pray against every influence of darkness that seeks to capture the hearts of children and young people, including peer pressure, negative media and worldly ideologies. I declare that they’re walking in the light and rejecting every unfruitful work of evil as they walk in righteousness and fulfil their purpose in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.* *FURTHER STUDY* Psalm 63:6* When I remember thee upon my bed, [and] meditate on thee in the [night] watches. Psalm 119:62* At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee because of thy righteous judgments. Luke 6:12* And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. READ ALSO: DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: In me abides all the grace, wisdom, prosperity, strength and courage I need to fulfil my glorious destiny in Christ! I have everything I require for life and godliness. I’m what God says I am, I have all He says I have, and I can do all things in His Name. All things are possible to me because I believe. I’m rich in all things, having inherited all things, for I’m a joint-heir with Christ! I’m fruitful and productive. I am making progress in every area of my life. I’m complete in Christ and every facet of my life is perfected for excellence. The Spirit guides and inspires me to take actions that’ll guarantee evident and unstoppable progress, increase and blessings for me. I walk in the consciousness of God’s righteousness, I am securely established in Christ, and I live above the corrupting influences of this age. I live without worries, conflicts, and agitations. I walk in glory, dominion, and the strength of God. I do not worry about my health, finances, or anything else because the Lord has perfected all that concerns me. I refuse to be sick because the Spirit of life is working in me. A thousand may fall at my side and ten thousand at my right hand, but no evil shall come near me. I affirm that there is no sickness or death in any area of my life or body. I’m daily vitalized by the Holy Spirit who resides in me. I can never be small because the anointing of God’s Spirit has set me apart for greatness, causing me to spread and make progress on every side. Jesus died and was resurrected so that I may enjoy the benefits of the new life in Christ. I walk daily in the consciousness of my divinity in Christ. I enjoy good health, peace, prosperity, and all-around success as I walk in the full blessings that Jesus Christ wrought for me, which I received when I obtained salvation. God’s Word is established in my life and it is evident for the world to see. I am seated with Christ in heavenly places, far above all principality and power, far above the devil and his minions, and far above sickness and disease in the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Speak in tongues Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Explore five promising cryptocurrencies with the potential to skyrocket in value by April 2025. Learn about DOGEN, Polygon, Polkadot, BNB, and Toncoin and how they could turn small investments into massive gains. Discover 5 Crypto Assets with Massive Growth Potential by April 2025 The cryptocurrency market is known for its unpredictable yet immense opportunities. If you’re looking to turn a modest investment into something significant by April 2025, this is your guide. Here are five crypto assets that could see exponential growth, turning small investments into fortunes. DOGEN: The Meme Token for Alphas Step into the world of DOGEN, a meme token that’s redefining success for crypto enthusiasts. DOGEN isn’t just a coin — it’s a lifestyle for the bold and ambitious. Think high-end cars, luxurious living, and a booming crypto wallet. With a 700% increase predicted by the end of its presale, DOGEN is shaping up to be the ultimate power move for investors willing to take risks. Why DOGEN Stands OutDOGEN is more than just another meme token. After the explosive success of coins like BONK, WIF, and Popcat, DOGEN is set to dominate the Solana ecosystem, poised for massive returns. With a solid community backing and an ambitious growth plan, DOGEN offers the chance to be part of a movement, not just a trend. How You Can ProfitDOGEN offers a multi-level referral program to increase your earnings. Gain 7% from each purchase made through your direct referrals, building wealth as your network grows. This isn’t just a coin; it’s your ticket to a whole new level of crypto dominance. Polygon: Faster, Cheaper Ethereum Transactions Polygon (formerly Matic Network) offers a Layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum, improving transaction speed and cutting down costs. Its native token, POL, allows users to stake, vote, and reduce transaction fees. With its growing popularity in decentralized finance (DeFi), Polygon has become an attractive option for blockchain enthusiasts looking to scale their investments. Polkadot: Blockchain Interoperability Made Simple Polkadot connects multiple blockchains, allowing them to share data and value securely. Developed by Ethereum co-founder Gavin Wood, Polkadot uses parachains to scale and increase transaction speeds, making it a perfect solution for the blockchain’s scalability and interoperability issues. The DOT token provides governance and staking rewards, making it a powerful investment option for those looking to get involved in its ecosystem. BNB: Binance’s Native Cryptocurrency Launched in 2017, BNB is Binance’s native cryptocurrency, designed for paying fees, supporting smart contracts, and conducting transactions. As Binance grows, so does BNB’s utility. With regular quarterly burns that reduce its supply, BNB’s deflationary model makes it an attractive investment option. Toncoin: Telegram’s Open Network Toncoin (TON) is the native cryptocurrency of The Open Network, a decentralized blockchain that originally stemmed from Telegram’s ambitious blockchain project. Although it faced legal challenges, TON continues to grow under the leadership of the TON Foundation. With its focus on secure payments and decentralized services, Toncoin has the potential for significant long-term growth. Conclusion Among these digital assets, DOGEN shines for its potential to offer exceptional returns. With a projected 700% increase by the end of its presale and a community-driven ethos, DOGEN offers an exciting opportunity for bold investors. While Polygon, Polkadot, BNB, and Toncoin are solid players in the market, DOGEN’s rapid growth and innovative tokenomics could turn a small investment into a large fortune by April 2025. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Traditional rulers in Southern Nigeria have called on both the government and citizens to leverage the lessons learned from the challenges of 2024 in order to accelerate the country’s economic recovery. The Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC) expressed cautious optimism about Nigeria’s prospects for a brighter and more prosperous 2025. In a statement titled “Happy New Year Nigeria,” signed by the Publicity Secretary, His Eminence Dr. Eberechukwu Oji, the Eze Aro of Arochukwu Kingdom, the royal fathers extended their blessings for the nation’s future. They recognized that although 2024 brought profound challenges, it also showcased the resilience, unity, and strength of the Nigerian people. They urged citizens to carry forward the lessons learned and the hope for a more secure and economically stable country. The traditional rulers prayed for a year filled with renewed opportunities for growth, healing, and progress. They emphasized the importance of working collectively to address the nation’s systemic challenges and uplift every Nigerian. In a separate statement, the SNTRC expressed deep sorrow over the tragic stampedes in Anambra, Oyo, and Abuja, where over 70 lives were lost during palliative distribution events meant to alleviate economic hardships. The traditional rulers acknowledged that these events, despite their well-meaning intentions, highlighted the dire need for a more robust economy to prevent such tragedies in the future. “These painful incidents serve as reminders of the fragility of life and the need for collective vigilance to avoid further tragedies,” said SNTRC. They offered heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, standing in solidarity with those affected. Furthermore, the SNTRC emphasized that these tragic events underline the urgent need for continuous efforts to address Nigeria’s economic issues. The desperation and overcrowding at the palliative distribution points are symptoms of deeper systemic challenges requiring immediate attention. The royal fathers urged the government to persist in improving the economic situation and creating more opportunities for citizens. Led by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the SNTRC also called on event organizers to prioritize safety by involving security agencies in planning and execution. They recommended that crowd control measures, risk assessments, and emergency plans be integral to all public events to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants. “As we mourn the loss of so many, let us also reaffirm our commitment to building a safer, more secure, and prosperous Nigeria,” said SNTRC. The rulers reiterated that preventing such incidents in the future would honor the memory of those who tragically lost their lives. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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A powerful earthquake struck the Tibet region on Tuesday morning, resulting in the deaths of at least 95 individuals and injuring 130 others, according to Chinese state media reports. The earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.1 and a depth of 10 kilometers (6 miles), occurred near Shigatse, Tibet’s sacred city, at 09:00 local time (01:00 GMT). The US Geological Survey also recorded multiple aftershocks in the region following the initial tremor. Tremors from the quake were felt not only in Tibet but also in neighboring Nepal and parts of India, highlighting the widespread impact of this natural disaster. This tragic event underscores the vulnerability of regions like Tibet, which sits on a significant geological fault line where earthquakes are unfortunately common. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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No state should have an excuse for not paying the N70,000 minimum wage—NECA Adewale Oyerinde, the Director General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), has firmly stated that no state in the federation should have any excuse for not paying the newly approved N70,000 minimum wage. Oyerinde emphasized that state governments have received ample support from the Federal Government to ensure the implementation of the new minimum wage, which was signed into law in July 2024. The signing of this law increased the minimum wage for Nigerian workers from N30,000 to N70,000. Following President Bola Tinubu’s assent to the bill, several state governments promised to implement the wage increase, although some expressed concerns about their financial capabilities. However, during an appearance on Arise TV’s ‘The Morning Show’ on January 7, 2025, Oyerinde refuted claims that some states could not afford to pay the new wage. He stressed that the N70,000 minimum wage is now a permanent fixture. “We have shifted from the stage of hope, and now it’s time to confront reality. The reality is that N70,000 is the law, and all stakeholders, whether at the federal, state, or local level, must align with this law, except for those specifically exempted,” Oyerinde explained. He further highlighted that the issue of funding should not be a concern, as the Federal Government has consistently increased allocations to state governments. “State governments’ allocations have risen proportionally, so with some fiscal discipline, no state should claim it cannot meet the N70,000 wage approved by the president.” If any state governor fails to implement the new minimum wage, Oyerinde warned that the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) may have to adopt new strategies to ensure compliance. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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A popular Japanese actor, Ryo Yoshizawa, was dismissed from his role as the face of a low-alcohol beer campaign after a drunken incident, according to officials. Yoshizawa, who was chosen by Asahi Breweries to represent its 3.5% Super Dry Dry Crystal beer, has long been admired for his looks, with one magazine describing him as having “national treasure-class handsomeness.” However, on December 30, the 30-year-old actor returned home possibly under the influence of a stronger drink. Yoshizawa, who was reportedly intoxicated, mistakenly entered a neighbor’s apartment, as stated by his talent agency, Amuse. “I lost my memories. I think I just went in without asking because I needed the bathroom,” Yoshizawa explained to police, as per local media reports. Asahi Group Holdings announced on Tuesday that it had severed ties with the actor. “As a company in the alcohol beverage industry, we find his actions unacceptable,” said spokesperson Shiori Shimizu. Asahi confirmed they would not feature him in future advertisements. Yoshizawa issued an apology to his surprised neighbor for the trouble he caused, and Amuse confirmed the actor had already left the apartment. In Japan, drinking trends are shifting, with younger generations increasingly opting for low-alcohol or alcohol-free beverages, reflecting a broader decline in alcohol consumption across the country. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Pastor Jerry Eze, founder of Streams of Joy Church and convener of the NSPPD prayer platform, has recently found himself at the center of controversy following a testimony by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, during a church service. A viral video from Sunday’s service showed Okpebholo publicly thanking God for his victory in the Edo State governorship election, attributing his success to divine intervention. The session moderator emphasized that God often uses “foolish things” to showcase His sovereignty, reinforcing the governor’s claim of divine favor in his electoral win. The testimony sparked mixed reactions online. Many Nigerians expressed outrage, accusing Eze of desecrating the pulpit by allowing a testimony they felt mocked God. Critics argued that the focus on a political figure’s election win detracted from the spiritual purpose of the church service and questioned whether such a setting was appropriate for such statements. While some defended Okpebholo’s remarks as an expression of gratitude, others questioned the appropriateness of such a testimony in a church environment, especially given its political nature. Ose Anenih, son of former Minister of Works Tony Anenih, criticized Pastor Jerry Eze for celebrating what he referred to as societal perversions. On X (formerly Twitter), he expressed, “God will not be mocked, #RealJerryEze. There was a time when mighty men of God would speak truth to power. Today, pastors use their platforms to celebrate society’s perversions. A rigged election is what your god is using to prove His divinity? God will not be mocked, Pastor Jerry.” An anonymous user, Peaceful Revolution (#buhilz56), questioned the appropriateness of the testimony, stating, “#RealJerryEze this is not supposed to be ooo. On your pulpit, we’re hearing such testimonies from what is a well-known situation in Edo State.” Another user, Adewale (#Wale_A3), lamented, “When I say there are specific pastors I can never listen to, they would claim pride. But I no longer bother anymore. I listen to very few preachers these days because many others are just hustlers trying to survive.” Chuks E (#messersEze) expressed disappointment at the congregation’s reaction, stating, “Imagine the congregation shouting in celebration for this. For them, this God is so good. It is okay o. We deserve what has befallen us as a people.” Akongwale Patrick (#unimagbebia) voiced concerns about the commercialization of Christianity in Nigeria, writing, “When will Christianity learn from Islam? Islam doesn’t close its doors, but they don’t give room to rinse sins and ascribe sham victories to Allah. Christianity, as practiced in Nigeria, can’t take its eyes off money.” However, some defended Pastor Jerry. User #goodthangs_ commented, “Pastor Jerry didn’t tell the rigged governor to testify. He came out on his own. Who is Pastor Jerry not to let him? It’s irritating, but what can he do?” Therim Tanko (#TherimT56364) emphasized the divine aspect of the victory, saying, “If God didn’t want him there, no amount of rigging would put him there. Go and read the Bible carefully. God does not think like a man.” Foreigner (#SmartSyn) defended Pastor Jerry’s actions, saying, “What would you have them do? Chase him off the premises? In this lawless Nigeria, so they’d use state power on the church? Pastor Jerry did what he had to do. In the end, it’s God’s judgment.” Mekus (èkún) (#coly_emeks) remarked, “But should he have banned him from the church because he’s a politician? The church is for God, not for Pastor Jerry. Nigerians are too spontaneous in their reactions.” Daprofet (#FYNEGUY2010) added, “A rigged election is subjective. You were an interested party in the election, so your bias could influence this submission.” READ ALSO:
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“Ogun Police arrest 25 suspects, including a man accused of beheading an 80-year-old woman and twin brothers involved in ritual killings. Stay updated on crime reports.” The Ogun State Police Command has apprehended 27-year-old Afeez Ayeteru for the alleged killing and beheading of an 80-year-old woman named Aduke in Ado Odo Ota, Ogun State. The Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, disclosed this while presenting Ayeteru along with 24 other suspects involved in various crimes during a media briefing in Abeokuta. According to Ogunlowo, the police responded swiftly to a distress call from the deceased’s neighbor. Upon arrival, officers arrested Ayeteru while he was attempting to escape the crime scene. Ritual Killing Case Involving Twin Brothers Among the suspects paraded were 45-year-old twin brothers, Taiwo and Kehinde Yemitan, who were accused of murdering a female victim named Darasimi and mutilating her body for ritual purposes. The crime, which occurred in the Lafenwa area of Abeokuta, was confirmed by the suspects during interrogation. One of the brothers, Taiwo, admitted to the crime, revealing that the victim was his friend and that this was his first direct killing, as he had previously only sold body parts obtained from other sources. Multiple Offences and Ongoing Investigations The police commissioner further revealed that the 25 arrested suspects were involved in crimes including kidnapping, murder, and cultism, all occurring within the past three weeks. Ogunlowo assured that the suspects would be charged in court once investigations are completed. Call for Public Support Ogunlowo urged residents to continue cooperating with law enforcement by providing timely information that could help prevent and address criminal activities effectively. He also issued a stern warning to criminals operating in the state, emphasizing the readiness of the police force to eradicate crime: “We will not hesitate to take action against those who refuse to comply with the law.” Stay informed with the latest crime updates from Ogun State as authorities intensify efforts to ensure public safety. SEO Checklist Applied: Would you like me to generate an image for this article? READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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UK-based philanthropist Opeyemi David Falegan criticizes Governor Oyebanji for hosting his daughter’s wedding in Ibadan, citing Ekiti State’s lack of basic infrastructure as the reason. UK-based philanthropist and founder of the Opeyemi David Falegan Foundation, Hon. Opeyemi David Falegan, has criticized Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for hosting his daughter’s wedding in Ibadan, Oyo State, rather than in Ekiti. Falegan expressed his disapproval, stating that the governor’s choice denied Ekiti State significant economic benefits that could have resulted from the event. He argued that Oyebanji indirectly encouraged capital flight by moving such a high-profile occasion outside the state. The philanthropist further alleged that the decision revealed the governor’s lack of meaningful infrastructural achievements since taking office. Falegan questioned how guests could access Ekiti, pointing out the state’s poor road networks, absence of an airport, and limited water supply. He urged Ekiti residents to recognize the situation as a reflection of the governor’s priorities and lack of infrastructural progress despite the state receiving significant federal allocations. Criticism of Second Term Ambitions Falegan also accused Governor Oyebanji of being more focused on securing a second term than on improving the state’s development. He claimed the governor was more concerned with influencing people and groups to support his re-election bid rather than implementing sustainable projects. The philanthropist warned civil servants and politicians against endorsing the governor’s performance without visible developmental results, urging the public to scrutinize his leadership critically. APC Chieftain Defends Governor Oyebanji In contrast, a former member of the House of Representatives and APC chieftain, Hon. Bimbo Daramola, defended Governor Oyebanji, emphasizing that personal events such as weddings should not be politicized. Daramola argued that a wedding venue does not reflect political achievements, questioning whether hosting the event in Ekiti would have automatically improved the governor’s popularity. He cautioned against using the event to score political points, emphasizing that the focus should be on the couple’s joyous occasion rather than political disputes. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Is the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) truly independent? Explore its reports, methodology, and controversies surrounding Nigeria’s official data. The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) plays a vital role in Nigeria as the primary custodian of the nation’s official statistics, responsible for gathering and managing critical data. Its mission is to support development planning and evidence-based policymaking through reliable data dissemination. However, the agency’s credibility has faced increasing public scrutiny. Some critics question the accuracy and independence of NBS reports, alleging they sometimes fail to represent Nigeria’s true economic realities. Accusations have also surfaced suggesting the bureau might be influenced to align with government interests. Public Concerns About Data Accuracy In July and August 2024, the NBS reported a decline in Nigeria’s inflation rate to 33.40% and 32.15% respectively. This led to public suspicion, with many believing the figures were adjusted to create a positive economic narrative. Similarly, the Q2 2024 Labour Force Survey reported a drop in unemployment to 4.3% from 5.3% in Q1. Many Nigerians questioned the reliability of this figure, citing widespread youth unemployment as a persistent issue. Reports Unfavorable to the Government Despite criticism, the NBS has released data that challenges the government’s image. The 2024 Crime Experience and Security Perception Survey (CESPS) revealed alarming statistics, including: Additionally, the 2022 Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) reported that 133 million Nigerians (62.9% of the population) experience multidimensional poverty. Methodological Reforms and International Standards The NBS has actively updated its data collection processes to align with global standards. For instance, the Nigeria Labour Force Survey (NLFS) adopted a revised methodology in 2022, reflecting practices approved by the International Labour Organization (ILO). Key improvements included: Collaboration with the World Bank has further supported the accuracy and reliability of these surveys. Addressing Allegations of Bias The Statistician-General of the Federation, Adeyemi Adeniran, has reaffirmed the bureau’s objectivity, emphasizing stakeholder workshops for methodological reviews. He stated: “Our data is produced without influence. It captures the realities on the ground to inform better policy decisions.” Similarly, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, asserted the agency’s independence during the 2024 African Statistics Day celebration. Significant Recent Reports Conclusion The National Bureau of Statistics remains committed to delivering transparent, timely, and objective data, essential for Nigeria’s socio-economic development. While doubts persist, the agency continues refining its methodologies with international support, aiming to uphold data integrity and public trust.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has authorized enhanced retirement benefits for Nigerian Army Generals, including bulletproof SUVs and paid international medical trips, under the newly signed Terms and Conditions of Service (TACOS) for Armed Forces personnel. Key Retirement Benefits for Senior Officers Under the new policy, which took effect on December 14, 2024, retired military generals serving for 35 years are entitled to several luxury allowances, such as: Entitlements for Top Military Officers The Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) apply to the highest ranks of the Nigerian military: Benefits for Major-Generals and Brigadier-Generals Retirement Benefits for Colonels Colonels and equivalent ranks will receive: Policy Adjustment and Justification The upward revision of the HTACOS benefits aligns with Nigeria’s current socio-economic realities. The provision of luxurious retirement packages for senior military officers has been a longstanding practice, with the new adjustments aimed at reflecting modern standards of living. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
