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Mass Burial For Victims As The Number Of People Killed In The Explosion Of The PWTOL Tanker Rises To 153

In Majiya town, in Jigawa State’s Taura Local Government Area, there were weeping on Wednesday when a petrol-laden tanker exploded, killing at least 153 people. According to reports, 94 people died at the scene, while other injured people were taken to Ringim General Hospital where medical professionals were fighting for their lives. When there were no more beds available at Ringim Hospital due to the high number of casualties, additional victims were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre in Birnin Kudu. Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Bola Tinubu, his wife Oluremi, governors, and numerous other Nigerians expressed their sorrow over the occurrence. Following the explosion, the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency announced that 147 people were given mass burials, and more than 55 people were admitted to different hospitals. The majority of the victims suffered irreversible burns. 153 people had been verified deceased and another 100 were seeking medical attention in hospitals, according to a statement released at the time of bed by Lawan Shiisu Adam, the Jigawa State Police Command’s public relations officer. On Wednesday, Majiya town held a mass burial for the deceased. The tanker driver lost control of the vehicle in Majia, close to Khadija University, on Tuesday at around 11:30 p.m. Before the driver lost control and the tanker collapsed with its contents, it was said to have departed Kano and was traveling to Nguru town in Yobe State. It was learned that some individuals went there to retrieve the product following the incident, a move that ultimately resulted in the explosion.Dr. Haruna Mairiga, the Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency, confirmed that there were 147 casualties. He also stated that his team saved approximately fifty additional people and sent them to several hospitals across the state. “When we first arrived, we were informed that approximately 95 people had died, but during the mass burial, we were able to count 147 bodies, which we all gave mass burial to,” he stated. “We also transported roughly fifty injured people to various hospitals throughout the state.”In confirming the occurrence, the police spokesperson stated, “The tragic event happened on October 15, 2024, at roughly 2230hrs, involving a gasoline truck carrying Driven by Yusuf Mohd’m’, a 32-year-old resident of Hotoro Quarters, Kano State, the tanker, registration number KMC 6412 F, overturned and spilled petrol while it was en route from Kano to Nguru, Yobe State. The driver lost control of the vehicle close to Khadija University in Majia town, Taura LGA. “The gasoline reached the village’s periphery via the drainage system. Sadly, when residents tried to scrape gasoline out of the drains, a fire broke out and many people are said to have died. According to him, Divisional Police Officer Gujungu, Area Commander Ringim, and his troops hurriedly arrived to the spot. A total of 105 dead have been removed, while 50 injured people have been sent to the Hadejia and Ringim General Hospitals for treatment. “The Thanks to the coordinated efforts of police, firefighters, and good Samaritans, the fire was effectively put out. The police command ascribed the large number of fatalities and injuries on local residents’ frantic attempts to get the commodity. Despite the police’s best efforts to keep everyone away and warn them, Adam claimed that individuals persisted and began scooping gasoline, which resulted in a disastrous explosion. He continued by saying that several bystanders disregarded warnings and approached the accident site irresponsibly, making it difficult for the police to maintain control of the area. “Shortly after the collision, the gasoline-loaded tanker caught fire, engulfing many nearby residents in the conflagration. “The wounded were sent right away to the Medical staff at the General Hospital in Ringim are treating the injured twenty-four hours a day. Nevertheless, since a number of the injured are still in critical condition, the death toll is probably going to go up. He claimed that since then, A.T. Abdullahi, the state’s commissioner of police, has expressed sympathy and condolences to all of the state’s citizens, particularly those in Majiya town, where the tragedy took place. Governor Umar Namadi offered his condolences to the people for the untimely deaths. Namadi quickly went to the scene of the occurrence and participated in saying the deceased’s burial prayer. He called the event the worst catastrophe to ever affect Jigawa State. “During this difficult moment, our prayers and thoughts are with the victims’ families. The governor declared, “We stand in solidarity with those who have lost loved ones and those injured in this tragic incident.” The governor added that all injuries sustained in the fire would be covered by the government. On Monday, Tinubu sent George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, instructions to head a delegation from the Federal Government to Jigawa.In addition, he gave the order to provide emergency medical supplies, food, and lodging to fifty injured individuals undergoing treatment as well as other fire victims. “The government delegation will comprise [Jigawa’s immediate past governor who is now] the Minister of Defense, Mohammed Abubakar; Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali; Corps Marshal of the Federal Roads Safety Corps, Mr. Shehu Mohammed; and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North-West), Abdullahi Yakasai,” according to a statement signed on Wednesday by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. Onanuga stated that the group would visit the hospitalized injured and the place of the tragedy to evaluate the situation while in Jigawa. With heavy hearts, the President and Vice President offer their sincere condolences to the families of those lost in this tragic event. He offers the Jigawa government and people his sincere condolences and support at this terrible period of loss and mourning. According to the statement, “he prays for divine comfort for the bereaved families and the peaceful repose for the souls of the departed.” Additionally, President Tinubu informed the people that the federal government is dedicated to reviewing fuel transportation safety measures countrywide as soon as possible and thoroughly, working

Gist Of The Day: Emerging Business and Industry Trends

Vibrant visuals of modern technology, business meetings, and industrial landscapes “Welcome to today’s special report on the evolving world of business and industry. In a rapidly changing landscape, innovation and adaptation are key to survival. From the rise of artificial intelligence to the push for sustainability, these trends are reshaping the future of work and commerce. Segment 1: The Rise of Artificial Intelligence and Automation [Cut to visuals of AI-powered robots, smart offices, and digital assistants in action] “Artificial intelligence, or AI, has become the backbone of modern business operations. What was once considered science fiction is now reality, with AI handling everything from customer service chatbots to complex data analytics. Companies across sectors are leveraging AI to streamline processes, boost efficiency, and enhance decision-making.” Business Expert  ‘Automation is key. We’re seeing AI technologies replacing repetitive, manual tasks, freeing up human workers to focus on creativity and strategy. This is fundamentally changing how businesses operate.’  “From retail to finance, AI is redefining what it means to be productive. But with this rise comes new challenges—how do we ensure that automation doesn’t lead to job loss, and how do businesses balance technology with human input?” Segment 2: Cybersecurity Protecting the Digital Frontier [Cut to visuals of servers, firewalls, and cybersecurity experts monitoring data] “With great power comes great responsibility, and in the digital age, that responsibility is cybersecurity. As businesses continue to expand their online operations, the threat of cyber-attacks grows larger. Data breaches and ransomware attacks have skyrocketed, costing businesses billions each year.” ‘In today’s world, companies are one hack away from disaster. Whether it’s financial institutions or e-commerce platforms, everyone is a target. Protecting data and securing digital infrastructure is now a top priority for all industries.’  “As the stakes rise, so do investments in cybersecurity measures. Businesses are turning to encryption, multi-factor authentication, and AI-based threat detection to safeguard their digital assets.” Segment 3: Sustainability and Green Business Models [Cut to visuals of solar panels, wind farms, and eco-friendly products] “The call for sustainability is louder than ever. Environmental concerns, fueled by climate change, have put pressure on businesses to adopt greener practices. Governments are stepping in with strict regulations, particularly in Europe, where the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is changing how industries operate.”   ‘Sustainability is no longer an option—it’s a necessity. Consumers are demanding eco-friendly products, and governments are holding companies accountable for their environmental impact. This is driving innovation in green technology and pushing businesses toward more sustainable supply chains.’  **Narrator:**  “From renewable energy to eco-conscious manufacturing, companies are finding that sustainability not only protects the planet but can also lead to long-term profitability.” Segment 4: Digital Transformation and Cloud Computing [Cut to visuals of cloud servers, remote work setups, and connected IoT devices] “Digital transformation continues to be the driving force behind business modernization. Cloud computing has revolutionized how companies store, access, and share information. With remote work becoming the norm, businesses are adopting cloud solutions to ensure seamless operations from anywhere in the world.” ‘Cloud computing offers flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency. It allows businesses to grow without the need for massive physical infrastructure, and it supports the modern workforce that operates across borders and time zones.’  “Alongside the cloud, the Internet of Things (IoT) is creating an interconnected world where devices communicate in real-time, optimizing everything from production lines to customer experiences. Segment 5: The Rise of Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and Cryptocurrency [Cut to visuals of blockchain networks, cryptocurrency trading platforms, and digital wallets] “Blockchain technology and cryptocurrency are pushing the boundaries of finance. Decentralized finance, or DeFi, is disrupting traditional banking by offering secure, transparent, and efficient financial services without the need for intermediaries. Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are becoming more widely accepted, and businesses are exploring how to integrate these digital currencies into their operations.” ‘DeFi and cryptocurrencies are opening up new financial pathways, especially for those who don’t have access to traditional banking. Blockchain’s decentralized nature provides a level of security and transparency that’s difficult to match.’  “However, regulation remains a key issue. Governments are still grappling with how to manage this emerging financial system, ensuring both innovation and security for investors.” Closing Segment: The Future of Business [Cut to visuals of futuristic cityscapes, business leaders, and workers in high-tech environments] “As we move deeper into the digital age, the way businesses operate is being reshaped by these emerging trends. Artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, sustainability, digital transformation, and decentralized finance are not just buzzwords—they are the foundation of the future economy.” “Stay tuned to LMSINT MEDIA for more insights and updates on the latest business trends shaping our world. Thank you for reading. This documentary highlights the most pressing topics in business and industry today, offering a comprehensive look at how these trends are shaping the future.

Liam Payne Former One Direction Member Is Dead

On October 16, 2024, Liam Payne, a former member of One Direction, tragically died in Buenos Aires at the age of 31. According to reports, he fell from the CasaSur Hotel’s third-floor balcony in the Palermo neighborhood. The precise cause of his fall is still under investigation by the authorities, and it is still unclear if it was an accident or deliberate. His creativity and goodwill have been remembered by many fans and fellow artists, who have expressed shock and deep regret. Payne may have traveled to Argentina to see a performance by Niall Horan, his former bandmate. In recent years, he had been dealing with personal issues such as mental health issues and setbacks in his music career. Liam Payne’s death has left a profound impact, especially considering his impressive career and the personal struggles he faced. Born on August 29, 1993, in Wolverhampton, England, Payne rose to global fame as a member of the boy band One Direction, which was formed on the reality TV show The X Factor in 2010. Although Payne initially auditioned as a solo artist, he was grouped with Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlinson to form what would become one of the best-selling boy bands of all time【16†source】. One Direction’s meteoric rise was swift. Their debut single, “What Makes You Beautiful,” topped charts globally, and their first album, Up All Night (2011), solidified their place in pop music history. Over five years, they released five albums, embarked on sold-out world tours, and garnered millions of fans worldwide【16†source】. Despite the group’s success, Payne, like many of his bandmates, struggled with the pressures of fame and later opened up about his battles with mental health issues and alcoholism. After One Direction’s hiatus in 2015, Liam Payne pursued a solo career, releasing his debut single “Strip That Down” in 2017, which was a commercial hit. Payne continued to release music, including his first solo album, LP1, in 2019. While successful, his solo career did not reach the same heights as One Direction, and he faced personal and professional setbacks. He had parted ways with his management company and delayed a second album before his untimely death Beyond his music career, Payne had a notable personal life. He was engaged to model Maya Henry, with whom he later split, and shared a son, Bear, with singer Cheryl Cole【16†source】. Despite his struggles, Payne had a lasting impact on the music world, and his legacy will continue to influence future generations. Two years after Payne’s initial audition for the British singing competition series “The X Factor,” in 2010, Payne was one of five members of the group that would later form One Direction. Payne sang a second rendition of Michael Bublé’s “Cry Me a River” at the age of 16, initially seeming apprehensive but gradually becoming more comfortable as she received applause and screams from the crowd. Simon Cowell and the other judges brought Payne, Zayn Malik, Harry Styles, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlinson together to form one of the most successful boy bands, even though they lost the competition, after each performer had failed to advance as a solo act. The best entertainment news in one locationEvery participant had their own persona, with Payne—a native of Wolverhampton, an English city in the West Midlands—being regarded as the one in charge. Pop music and romantic singles like “What Makes You Beautiful,” “Night Changes,” and “Story of My Life” helped the band gain recognition. Payne co-wrote several of the band’s singles and had big solos on songs like “Change Your Ticket” and “Stole My Heart.” By the time they called it quits in 2016, they had amassed a devoted following of teenage females known as “Directioners,” and six Top 10 hits on the Billboard charts. Since I was a young child, I have always adored One Direction. It’s unreal to realize that he passed away and that the boys will never get together again. Another fan outside Payne’s hotel, Juana Relh, 18, exclaimed, “It kills me.” Outside of Payne’s hotel, another admirer, 18-year-old Juana Relh, declared, “I’ve always loved One Direction since I was little.” “It kills me to see that he passed away and that the boys will never get together again.” Payne had previously stated that he needed some time to get used to the spotlight following his quick ascent to prominence. He described an incident where a fan was in a state of shock and stated, “I don’t think you can ever deal with that, it’s all a bit crazy for us to see that people get in that sort of state of mind about us and what we do.” of surprise when they first met him. Like all of his former bandmates, Payne sought a solo career after the group broke up, gravitating toward hip-hop and EDM. His 2017 hit song “Strip That Down,” which featured Quavo, peaked at number 10 on the Billboard charts and remained there for a few months. He published the album “LP1” in 2019 and his most recent release, a song titled “Teardrops,” in March. Cheryl Cole and Liam Payne pose at a photo call for the Global Gift Gala at the Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris on Monday, May 9, 2016. (Francois Mori, File/AP Photo) Bear Grey Payne, Payne’s seven-year-old kid, was born to the artist and former girlfriend Cheryl, who went by Cheryl Cole when she performed. Girls Aloud. She served as a judge on “X Factor” when One Direction was competing. Payne and Maya Henry were previously engaged from August 2020 to the beginning of 2022. She said that Henry’s book, which was published earlier this year, was based on their relationship. He is survived by his son, as well as his parents, Ruth and Nicola Payne, and Geoff and Karen Payne.

Scotland National Football Team vs Portugal National Football Team Lineups

Scotland National Football Team vs Portugal National Football Team Lineups: Match Preview“Welcome back to LMSINT MEDIA! Today, we dive into a highly anticipated football clash—Scotland vs Portugal! Two dynamic teams, rich in history, face off in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. We’ll take a closer look at the expected lineups and key players to watch in this international showdown. Let’s break it all down!” [SCOTLAND LINEUP]“Let’s start with Scotland. Managed by Steve Clarke, Scotland comes into this match in fine form, showcasing a resilient team spirit. Clarke’s squad is built on a solid defensive foundation with a few attacking threats.” Midfield: Attack: [PORTUGAL LINEUP](Transition to Portugal’s lineup graphics)“Now, let’s move on to Portugal. Under Roberto Martínez, Portugal remains a powerhouse in European football, stacked with world-class talent. Let’s look at the stars expected to start for this dynamic side.” Midfield: Attack: [KEY MATCHUPS](Visuals of players facing off)“Now, let’s focus on a couple of key matchups that could determine the outcome of this match. First up, we have Kieran Tierney vs. Cristiano Ronaldo. Tierney will need all his defensive skills to contain the Portuguese captain, while Ronaldo’s knack for finding space could be decisive. Another key battle is in midfield—Scott McTominay against Bernardo Silva. McTominay will have his hands full trying to stop Silva from dictating the flow of the game.” [FINAL THOUGHTS]“This match is shaping up to be an intense battle between two nations hungry for victory. Scotland’s organization and defensive solidity will be tested by Portugal’s attacking flair and individual brilliance. Will the Scottish spirit prevail, or will Ronaldo and his teammates shine once again?” “Thanks for tuning in to LMSINT MEDIA! Be sure to subscribe for more sports breakdowns and match previews. Let us know in the comments who you think will come out on top—Scotland or Portugal? See you next time!”

According to the World Bank, Nigeria needs maintain the current government changes for 10-15 years to have an impact.

The World Bank’s assertion that Nigeria must sustain its economic reforms for 10 to 15 years is a clear signal of the long-term commitment required to address the country’s structural challenges. According to the World Bank, these reforms are critical for transforming Nigeria’s economy into a more resilient and competitive one, both within Africa and globally.Currently, Nigeria faces high inflation, driven in part by the removal of fuel subsidies, which has sharply increased transportation and production costs. The unification of the foreign exchange market has further compounded the issue, leading to currency volatility and raising the cost of goods and services. These issues have made life more expensive for everyday Nigerians and present significant challenges for businesses and policymakers alike .However, despite these hardships, the World Bank argues that the reforms are laying the groundwork for long-term economic stability. Without these measures, Nigeria’s economy could continue to lag behind its peers in sub-Saharan Africa, as seen in the current economic disparities. For example, while Nigeria’s growth is projected at 3.3% in 2024, the broader West African region is expected to grow faster, at around 4.4%, driven by stronger economies like Benin and Côte d’Ivoire .The World Bank believes that if Nigeria maintains its reform path, the country could unlock its potential to become a significant engine of growth in the region. These reforms would foster a more productive private sector, create better jobs, and ultimately improve living standards. Yet, this is a long-term vision, and the bank stresses that it requires consistent implementation over the next decade or more to bear fruit .In summary, while the immediate effects of Nigeria’s economic reforms might be tough, the World Bank urges perseverance, as sustained changes could yield transformative benefits for the country’s economy and society.

VeryDarkMan Generated ₦21.6m in less than one day for his new NGO

Prominent Nigerian activist and social critic VeryDarkMan has revealed that, just twenty-four hours after his non-governmental organization (NGO) was established, he received ₦21,620,780. The activist expressed his gratitude for the prompt reaction to his need for help in a video that has become popular on social media. When VeryDarkMan launched his non-governmental organization, he invited Nigerians to support his goal of using creative methods to transform the country’s public education system. He verified the cash received just one day after he made the request, and these will provide the starting point for his efforts. He emphasized his commitment to openness by promising to expose NGOs that embezzle public cash for private gain. Additionally, VeryDarkMan denounced the pervasive lack of transparency within many Nigerian non-governmental organizations, saying that Donations are often exploited for private advantage.He promised to set his group apart by making all of its expenses publicly available, setting a new benchmark for honesty and openness in NGO operations. The following is a portion of his statement: “You won’t believe how much money is in that account right now, and it’s only been 24 hours since I announced my NGO. Let me start by thanking everyone who sent money. I witnessed affection and assistance in quantities of ₦72, ₦100, ₦22, and ₦500. The majority came from modest gifts of ₦500, ₦300, and ₦200. People with few resources nevertheless desired to help. ₦1 million and ₦2 million were the largest sums. In actual honesty, though, the bulk consists of lesser amounts. I possess one. Donations are often exploited for selfish purposes.By making all of his organization’s expenses publicly available, he promised to set a new benchmark for honesty and openness in NGO operations. In his announcement, he says, “You won’t believe how much is in that account right now, and it’s barely been a day since I announced my NGO.” I want to thank everyone who sent money first. Amounts like ₦72, ₦100, ₦22, and ₦500 showed me love and support. Most of the funds came from modest contributions of ₦500, ₦300, and ₦200. Even those with little nevertheless desired to be supportive. Amounts of ₦2 million and ₦1 million were the largest. However, the majority really consists of the tiny amounts. I have one. ₦100 was donated along with a note that read, “I love you because you’re crazy.” That is affection. My eyes have been opened to the sheer number of NGOs defrauding people in our nation by these contributions. A large number of them are not making the proper use of the funds they are given. However, I’ll make sure to expose them through complete transparency with my NGO. I promise to notify the public if I spend ₦10. Other NGOs will be under pressure to follow suit as a result. VeryDarkMan restated that the goal of his project is to improve public education. He highlighted the lack of young, creative teachers in public schools and said that his approach entails introducing new teaching techniques and resources, including technological tools like projectors, to enhance the process of learning. The educational system is broken, particularly in the case of public schools. It’s no longer exciting in any way. We need to implement contemporary teaching techniques and bring in youthful instructors who pupils may look up to. He stated that education need to change with the times. He also emphasized the significance of giving pupils real-world skills, saying that not everyone must pursue a traditional academic path. Early vocational training introduction would enable kids to begin considering their future vocations as early as primary school. Cultural gatherings and other enjoyable educational activities must be reinstated.

FG may ground 60 private jets today due to import duties.

Over 60 private jets owned by prominent individuals in the nation will be grounded by the Federal Government on Monday (today) due to unpaid import duties totaling several billions of naira. This action will be taken through the Nigerian Customs Service. The enforcement exercise would start on October 14th, 2024, according to documents that were exclusively seen by The PUNCH on Sunday and were exchanged between the NCS and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency. According to reports, most private aircraft in the nation do not have their duties paid; the NCS is attempting to recoup unpaid import charges totaling several billions of naira. The NCS reportedly conducted a one-month verification exercise on all private jet owners in the nation between June and July as a result of the development. The most recent decision to ground the private aircraft was made over three months following the NCS verification test. However, according to documents obtained by The PUNCH on Sunday, some wealthy businessmen, including chairmen and senior executives of certain institutions, would not be allowed to fly their private planes. The NCS has already formally informed the wealthy private jet owners who will be impacted by the decision. The records indicate that most of the aircraft affected are privately owned Nigerian aircraft with international registrations. Bombardier Challenger 604 CL-600-2B16, Challenger 3500, BD-700 Global 6000, BD-700 Global 6500, and BD-700 Global 7500 are a few of the high-end aircraft on the list. The projected cost of each Bombardier BD-700 Global 7500 is over$70m, compared to over $50m for the Global 6500 and 6000 versions. This occurred as it was reported that a few influential private aircraft operators had pressured the President prior to the grounding drill on Monday; nevertheless, our journalist discovered that the President declined to intervene. It was discovered that certain operators had started the process of paying the import duty as a result of the development. According to officials, a few owners of private jets promised to pay the levy this week. Operators of a major Nigerian bank’s Gulfstream G650ER aircraft, registered in the United States, have already They allegedly paid N5.3 billion in import taxes to get out of the clampdown. During a similar action in 2019, the Customs had retrieved some duties into the government coffers. However, the letters that were discovered on Sunday stated that unless the unpaid debts were resolved, private and corporate aircraft could not take to the air. The government anticipates making a sizable profit from this enforcement action. Nevertheless, it has been claimed that three of these aircraft, which are scheduled for grounding today, were flown outside of the nation. When the planes get back to the nation, though, they will be forced to land. The Nigerian Customs Act of 2023, according to officials who spoke under anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the subject, gives the The person paid N5.3 billion in import duties to evade the enforcement action. A similar operation was conducted in 2019 and the Customs had retrieved some duties into the government coffers. However, according to the letters discovered on Sunday, aircraft owned by well-known people and businesses were forbidden from taking to the air until unpaid bills were resolved. The government anticipates that this enforcement action will bring in a sizable sum of money. Three of these aircraft, which are supposed to be grounded today, have allegedly been flown out of the nation. But as soon as they get back in the nation, the planes will be grounded. Officials, speaking under anonymity because they lacked the authority to discuss the subject, claimed that the Nigerian Customs Act of 2023 gives the the owner or importer of any products brought into the nation unlawfully will be subject to penalties from the customs department. The NCS has sent demand notes to all impacted owners and importers, the spokesman continued, directing them to settle unpaid customs on their private aircraft. Some aircraft owners have made formal promises to pay the debts when they return to Nigeria, while others have started talks with the NCS to settle the unpaid balances. The NCS is expected to profit more than N260 billion from this enforcement action. According to the findings, the NCS had written to the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, asking that the listed aircraft’s flight clearances be revoked until the outstanding charges were paid or the NCS issued new directives. Four of the seized aircraft are presently in negotiations with Customs, and their owners have agreed to pay the necessary duties, according to additional information obtained by The PUNCH. The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency admitted receiving a letter from the NCS about recovering import charges on private aircraft that were unlawfully imported, according to correspondence seen by our correspondent. In addition to ordering Air Traffic Control units to ground any non-compliant aircraft beginning on October 14, 2024, until cleared by the Nigeria Customs Service, the agency also sent out a Notice to Airmen. Additionally, NAMA asked that cleared aircraft details be sent as soon as possible to avoid problems and guarantee efficient cooperation. The agency stated that it would work with the government to improve aviation operations’ transparency and boost the country’s economy. In In July, Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi of NCS announced that a few private aircraft were departing the nation in order to avoid the verification process. Since the announcement, very few of the private aircraft operators have shown up for verification, and we have information that many of them are fleeing Nigeria because they would not want to be validated,” he stated. The CGC clarified that more private jets were operating outside of legal boundaries, which is why the service launched the private jet verification exercise. We are bringing up this verification because we have observed so many of these aircraft flying and our records generally indicate that very few of them have showed up to pay duty,” he said. The CGC revealed that although a large number of private

Members want free Internet for hospitals and public schools.

The House of Representatives has started the process of offering Nigerians free internet access in a few public locations. This comes after a bill sponsored by Mr. Abubakar Kusada, the representative of Katsina State’s Kankia/Ingawa/Kusada Federal Constituency, was passed last week during its first reading. The bill is named “An Act to provide the legal framework for the free internet access programme in selected public places in Nigeria and for other related matters.” Rallying support for the bill, Kusada underlined the policy to “promote an environment for the development of structures that would ensure availability and accessibility to reliable and secure internet access,” noting that Nigeria recognizes the critical role of ICT in nation-building. The law text will apply to public hospitals, including health centers in remote areas, secondary and tertiary institutions, and federal, state, and municipal government agencies. Public parks, plazas, libraries, reading centers, public airports and seaports, police, Army, Navy, and Customs barracks, and public transportation terminals are among the other locations mentioned. Is Anita Ben’s favorite person in the world? Zinwe’s eviction and Topher and Anita’s age drama0:00 / 01:01 The first section of the bill states that users would not be charged a fee to connect to public internet access points. The free internet service offered must be kept apart from the internet service utilized by government agencies for databases, backend computer systems and programs, management, and information systems; however, shared infrastructure use must the online advocacy group Nigerian online Group. The bill requires NCC and NITDA to “develop a comprehensive plan for the timely and effective implementation and propagation of this program within one year of the commencement of this Act” in order to manage the proposed law. In order to “ensure that the comprehensive plan is integrated with the plans and budgets of all agencies mandated to provide free internet access under this program,” the two agencies must also “liaise with federal, state, and local government areas, other relevant agencies, private sector entities, the Nigeria Internet Group, and concerned organizations.” Furthermore, the measure grants the two agencies the authority to “adopt contracts to undertake the establishment of policies, regulations, and the timely and efficient implementation of this Act. the execution of this Act in accordance with current rules and regulations; and secure program funding from any source, including public, private, and international.” When implementing this, NCC and NITDA are required to guarantee that each user has a minimum internet speed of two megabytes per second, or the speed specified under the National Broadband Plan, whichever is faster. Additionally, the measure promotes collaborations to guarantee effective service delivery. “To foster an effective and economical delivery of free internet access in public places, NCC and NITDA may collaborate with the private sector in the execution of the program,” reads Section 6(1). Additionally, it permits the following: “Private sector partners’ excess capacity may be supplied to deliver supplemental internet access service to the user in the regions where program facilities are situated, given that those people or organizations register as value-added service providers with the NCC. Private service providers are encouraged to trade data prices through domestic internet protocol exchanges, which may be designated by NCC and NITDA, in order to lower costs and improve access. Thanks for reading.

Dangote meets Tuesday with marketers over the new fuel price.

In order to finalize agreements on the price and lifting of gasoline from the plant, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria is scheduled to have meetings with Dangote Petroleum Refinery on Tuesday and Wednesday. On Sunday, it was discovered that the $20 billion refinery located in Lekki had requested that the Petroleum Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria submit its request for gasoline lifting again. As marketers load the commodity from the refinery, PETROAN voiced optimism that the price of gasoline would drop in the upcoming days once the rivalry in the downstream oil industry fully develops. The anticipated agreement with the Dangote refinery, meantime, was hailed by IPMAN as a significant milestone in the association’s continuous efforts to ease the lifting of petroleum products and bolster the stability and effectiveness of the nation’s fuel supply chain. Petroleum marketers now have the ability to obtain fuel directly from the Dangote refinery, bypassing the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, according to a permission issued by the Federal Government last week. In a statement, Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Chairman of the Naira-crude sale implementation committee, stated that petroleum product merchants could now buy PMS (petrol) straight from local refineries without NNPC acting as an intermediary. In order to foster competition, marketers are urged to start making direct purchases from refineries under commercial terms that are mutually negotiated. In an update on Sunday, IPMAN’s National Publicity Secretary, Chinedu Ukadike, stated that the association was prepared to start a positive commercial relationship with the refinery and hoped to meet with Dangote refinery executives for a conversation. In an interview that our correspondents saw on Arise TV, Ukadike stated that the organization had purchased tank farms to improve its storage facilities, resolving an issue that had previously hampered operations. “We hope to meet with Dangote on Tuesday or Wednesday, and if they provide us with a price or template, we will proceed with Dangote,” he stated. I want to reassure you that we are capable of handling whatever Dangote throws at us. I’m not sure why they are taking a long time to talk to marketers; perhaps politics are to blame. We are not afraid of this competition; we have organized ourselves and are prepared to compete since this is a race in which the fittest will survive. The more distribution lines we implement, the more the price will decrease. “The problem of not having tank farms has been resolved. We now have farm tanks, and we will distribute our products to our marketers wherever Dangote promises to give them to us.” Billy Gillis-Harry, the president of PETROAN, informed The PUNCH that his organization has been invited to submit their request to remove gasoline from the plant again. We have corresponded with Dangote on multiple occasions, and they are completely conscious of the actions taken by PETROAN. We are waiting for a meeting that one of the executive directors there phoned to say they would like to schedule one with us. We’re hoping to accomplish it this week. All of them, including NNPC, dealers, importers, Dangote refinery, modular refineries, etc., are welcome to supply us with goods. We are pursuing it, then. Although we haven’t heard back from Dangote regarding the meeting, we have resent our request as instructed. And compared to earlier, when they were merely remaining silent, I believe it is a favorable response. Thus, PETROAN members ought to begin removing goods from the Dangote refinery at any moment, and it is excellent news for all of us. said Gillis-Harry. The PETROAN president went on to say, “The price can be knocked down to N700/litre; it depends on the volatility of the market and this does not always mean upward prices, it could also mean prices coming down.” in response to a question on whether gas prices might decline in the future. “Obviously, everyone will be seeking for the smallest possible profit if there is a large supply and a large number of products in Nigeria. Since turnover is the main goal of our firm, some may lower their pricing. The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, according to IPMAN spokesperson Ukadike, has granted independent marketers a bulk buy license so they can off-take from the Dangote refinery. The NMDPRA possesses granted independent merchants a license to purchase in bulk from the Dangote refinery. We want this to go into effect right now. In order for us to import, we have also been promised an import license. These are the deregulation-related elements. By putting it into practice, you have aligned all the players to ensure healthy competition. It does not prioritize some above others. How can we claim competition when we purchase goods for N1,040? Its goal is to weaken us and turn us into NNPC’s and its suppliers’ dependents. Our national president was informed by the head of NMDPRA that we will receive an import license on Friday. Yet, as you are aware, these procedures all have bureaucratic protocols. We didn’t have this opportunity before, but things have changed for the better now,” he said. Regarding the amount that the NNPC owes oil traders, Ukadike stated, “The head of the NNPC has promised to load out all of our tickets that are in their system and unlock the money.” These funds are occasionally obtained through bank loans, and when they are locked up, we pay bank fees that have an impact on fuel prices as well. As I speak to you, they haven’t burdened us down and they haven’t disclosed the additional cost. Our president stressed that since this money has been locked up with them, they must do so before we can look at the remittance we will be making. ought to provide it to us at the previous rate so that we can utilize it to offset the bank fees and other costs we have already incurred. I’ll make the announcement and the new price available by Monday or Tuesday. The idea that independent

Ndume is cautioned by APC not to insult Tinubu.

The ruling All Progressives Congress suggested that rather than publicly denouncing the government’s policies or actions, Ali Ndume, the former Chief Whip of the Senate, should speak with President Bola Tinubu privately. In an interview with The PUNCH on Sunday, Bala Ibrahim, the National Publicity Director of the APC, offered the advice, stating that while everyone in a democracy has the freedom to voice their opinions, influential people like Ndume have to consider their comments carefully before speaking out. In the National Assembly, Ndume, who represents the Borno South Senatorial District, had urged the President to address the suffering endured by the populace before it was too late. Ndume asserted in a statement issued in Abuja on Friday that certain evil actors associated with Tinubu were in charge of promoting detrimental changes and policies meant to topple the government. He said, “Those who are out to discredit the President will do whatever it takes to hurt Nigerians with the so-called reforms till things get out of control, at which point President Tinubu will be held accountable. The senator further recommended that the Tinubu administration attend to the pain of hyperinflation, which has been exacerbated by the ongoing increases in the costs of necessities. Ndume’s most recent intervention occurs just a few months after the ruling APC, which he belongs to, urged the Senate to remove him from his role as Senate Chief Whip due to his unrelenting public criticism of President Tinubu and the party. Later, he would apologize and receive a pardon from the APC, which asked that the Senate reinstate him as Chief Whip. Ndume’s appointment as Chief Whip by the Senate is still pending. When asked on Sunday if Ndume’s most recent public advise to the President alarmed the ruling APC, Ibrahim, the party’s national publicity director, said Ndume should proceed with prudence. “People have the right to own an opinion and to ventilate their positions without anyone suppressing them,” he stated. Ali Ndume is a general adviser to the president. The President is working on the party’s agenda and policies, so if you happen to be in the same party as him, you have some things in common. As a prominent member of the party, a lawmaker, and a previous Chief Whip, Ndume serves as an advisor to all of our party’s leaders by default. He can therefore communicate with them in private without necessarily doing so in public. People need to be aware of their stance and the reality that their supporters will go so far as to evaluate them according to what they do or say. “Ndume is highly esteemed by many people. He must therefore always consider what he says to avoid being misquoted or misunderstood. However, I hope that he is acting honestly when he does this. Whether the APC is unhappy or will take any sanctions into account when making a decision. This development occurs three months after Ndume’s removal from the Chief Whip role due to his humiliation of the President on a live Arise TV broadcast. The Bornu senator infuriated the ruling party by claiming that Tinubu had been imprisoned and kept in the dark about the struggles Nigerians were facing. Following a direction from the party’s national secretary, senator Bashir Ajibola, and national chairman, Umar Ganduje, in a letter, he was promptly replaced by senator Tahir Monguno, who represents Borno North. Godswill Akpabio, the president of the Senate, put the request to a voice vote, and all of the APC senators enthusiastically supported it. However, following a two-hour meeting behind closed doors with the APC National Working Committee in Abuja two months ago, a somber-looking Ndume informed reporters that he had expressed regret to the party’s leadership. Thanks for reading.

Eliminating fuel subsidies prior to rectifying refineries is an error – SAN

In order to lessen Nigeria’s current economic suffering, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria named Paul Obi has emphasized the necessity of revitalizing the nation’s public refineries. Oil and gas lawyer Obi said that before enacting the oil deregulation policy, the Federal Government had to have turned on at least one or two public refineries. This, in his opinion, would have mitigated the negative economic effects that Nigerians are currently experiencing. During an interview with newsmen after receiving the SAN title in an Abuja event alongside eighty-six other individuals, the lawyer expressed his opinions. “Deregulate is a good idea because it will free up funds for the government and encourage healthy competition in the industry,” stated Obi. However, vital infrastructure ought to have been operational, like as the Port Harcourt refinery. In order to lessen Nigeria’s current economic suffering, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria named Paul Obi has emphasized the necessity of revitalizing the nation’s public refineries. According to Obi, a lawyer specializing in oil and gas, the Federal Government ought to have turned on one or two public refineries prior to enacting the oil deregulation policy. This, in his opinion, would have mitigated the negative economic effects of the policy. Although the private sector’s establishment of the Dangote Refinery was a good thing, he pointed out that the industry would have been stabilized more if public refineries had been in operation. The degree of economic suffering that Nigerians are currently facing would not exist if Dangote’s refinery coexisted with one or two state refineries. Obi emphasized that these refineries ought to have been in operation prior to the implementation of deregulation. He applauded the government’s efforts to alleviate pressure on the foreign exchange market by supporting the Dangote Refinery by providing crude in naira. Speaking about judicial reforms, Obi voiced hope for the new Supreme Court regulations, saying they will help Nigerians receive justice more quickly. He emphasized the importance of the top court’s bench having all 21 Justices for the first time in a long time, claiming this would lessen the backlog of cases. From 2013 to 2023, two of my appeals were stalled at the Supreme Court. Considering that our bench is currently filled, that shouldn’t occur again. I wholeheartedly endorse the reform that the new regulations will ensure is that justice is served promptly,” he said. After 34 years of practicing law, Obi talked about his first experience getting to the SAN rank. In order to avoid the difficulties of repeatedly applying, he counseled prospective attorneys to carefully follow the application instructions. I made sure I was technically qualified and had all of my cases in order before applying once, and I was successful. Given that numerous attorneys have attempted as many as seven times, I didn’t want to go through the procedure again. I made sure I was technically qualified and had all of my cases in order before applying once, and I was successful. Many lawyers have tried up to seven times without success, so I didn’t want to go through the process again,” he stated. Thanks for Reading.

Father files a Senate appeal regarding his daughter’s UTME result withholding.

In response to the withholding of his daughter Chizitere Obioha’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination results, a parent named Onyebuchi Obioha has filed a petition with the Senate. He said that a Joint Admissions Matriculation Board supervisor’s wrongdoing was the reason behind the development. Obioha accused a JAMB supervisor of handing his 16-year-old daughter his phone number after the exam, implying improper intentions, in a petition filed through senator Neda Imasuen. Obioha believed the “examination infraction” cited as the reason Chizitere’s results were withheld might have been caused by the supervisor. Obioha refuted JAMB’s malpractice allegation, asserting that his daughter had committed no crime.He asked JAMB for proof, requesting CCTV footage from the testing facility and a forensic investigation of any alleged misconduct forms.“My name is Onyebuchi Obioha, the father of Chizitere Audrey Obioha, whose JAMB details are stated below:” is part of the petition. Registration number: 202440075547GF; name: Audrey Chizitere Obioha; examination number: C44208171; center number: C44208; seat number: 171. On April 22, 2024, at noon, she took the JAMB exam at the Wisdom House CBT Center in Ogba, Lagos. Chizitere I personally drove Audrey Obioha to the aforementioned center in Ogba, Lagos, where she completed her JAMB on April 22, 2024. After I dropped her off at the center, she went to queue to enter with her exam slip, leaving her reading materials in the car.I waited for her to emerge at a nearby shopping center. She informed me she did extremely well on the exam when I inquired how it went. We verified when the results were made public and discovered that the result for her was Alleged Examination Infraction instead of her actual score. He claimed that parents became concerned about the trend and asked Chizitere if she had engaged in any unethical behavior related to exams.She answered us no when we asked whether anything had happened or if she was concerned about the exam because we were apprehensive. In order to receive answers, we contacted a relative who lives in Abuja to go to the JAMB headquarters. However, we were told that we needed to open a ticket. “On April 30, we immediately opened a ticket; the ID is #240430-9KYGAD. We updated the ticket on April 30 and kept requesting for responses, but we never heard anything. The appeal went on, “On June 25, 2024, we attended the JAMB office in Ikoyi. The officers there informed us that the term ‘Alleged Examination Infraction’ might refer to any of the following: being caught using a device, cheating with another applicant, or being discovered with materials in the hallway. During an interactive session on July 11, 2024, my daughter was questioned by JAMB authorities, who also revealed that they had video of her using a gadget during the exam. In response, my daughter said she had no problems in the hallway, thus this was not conceivable. She also said that she had not filled out a malpractice form when they asked if she had. “My daughter did not own a telephone, IPAD, or any other electronic device, and she did not take any with her to the exam that day,” the father continued. As of now, we have not heard back from anyone regarding that session.We ask that you please do us no favors. Let the law unleash its full fury if my daughter has broken any laws. If, however, she is falsely charged, we will be grateful that justice is done. Then he became suspicious, saying his daughter was being punished for something she had not done. I would want to draw your attention to a suspicion we have regarding this situation. Our daughter is definitely not being punished for a crime she did not commit. Upon her exit from the exam hall on that fatal April 22, 2024 exam day, my daughter brought me a small piece of paper and stated she had received it from a man in the hall, asking her to call him after the exam. The man came around and said, in her exact words, that her name was beautiful after looking at it. He then walked away, returned just as she was finishing up, dropped this piece of paper, and requested her to give him a call later. He said, “She made the decision to bring the paper to me. The petition further stated, “I contacted the number right away and questioned him about why he gave his number to a sixteen-year-old girl so she could call him. Right away, he refuted it, claiming that the number was incorrect. After looking over the paper, I informed him that I had called the number he had written. He crossed the boundary. Upon arriving home, my daughter informed my wife as well, and she called him as well. This time, he denied it once more and ended the call.That same day, in the evening, I wrote him a WhatsApp message requesting that he stop doing this and issue an apology. He remained silent. That message is with me. I’ve included it here as well. Please dial 08067366564. When I checked Truecaller, Mutiu Olayemi’s name appeared. In response, Olayemi refuted the claims.He denied having given his phone number to any applicant, saying he was in Abuja only to answer questions from JAMB. Additionally, Olayemi denied having anything to do with the report that was made about Chizitere’s exam infringement, blaming it on the Resident Monitor.I didn’t “toast” any candidates or provide my phone number to any during the exam. As instructed by JAMB Abuja, I’m already in Abuja to defend myself,” he declared. The petition is anticipated to be discussed by the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions in due course. Thanks for reading.

Pump price hike: Nigeria is on the verge of collapse – Secondus

Pump price hike: Nigeria is on the verge of collapse – Secondus The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)’s former national chairman, Prince Uche Secondus, has issued a warning that Nigeria is getting closer to collapse as a result of the recent increase in fuel prices.In an interview in Abuja, he chastised the All Progressives Congress (APC) government of Bola Tinubu for its failure to exercise effective leadership over the previous two years.“Every indicator points to a state and democracy in collapse. The masses are suffering, so we must pray for our nation,” Secondus said, highlighting the plight of the populace. He pointed out that the cost of gas at the pump is currently N1,100, and in certain places, prices are as high as N1,200, which makes things worse for a lot of Nigerians. Secondus talked about the PDP’s current crisis as well, focusing on Rivers, his home state. He maintained that if everyone had done their part, the conflict would not have arisen and could have been prevented. He declared that the PDP in Rivers cannot have two leaders and that Governor Siminalaye Fubara is the legitimate leader who should be respected by all party members.A ship never has two captains. He underlined, “Governor Fubara is our governor and the leader of our state,” and expressed optimism that the party’s internal problems would soon be settled.Secondus asked for a lowering of tensions and advised the dissident party members, led by Chief Nyesom Wike, to acknowledge Fubara’s leadership in a subdued manner to promote the state’s advancement. “The state pains me greatly because investors and businesses are fleeing. “They ought to moderate it,” he suggested.In order to safeguard Nigeria’s precarious democracy, Secondus also argued for judicial reforms, emphasizing the judiciary’s crucial role in the government. “We all want to see reform and improvement in the judiciary,” he said in closing.