A sudden explosion caused widespread panic on Tuesday at the Alake Sports Complex, located in the Ijeja area of Abeokuta, Ogun State, one of the official venues for the 2024 National Sports Festival. According to eyewitness accounts, the explosion resulted from a fire that ignited while a gas truck was delivering fuel to the complex’s power generator. The incident triggered alarm among both athletes and spectators who were nearby, prompting a frantic dash for safety. Emergency management officials responded promptly, arriving at the scene to contain the fire and restore order to the facility. As of the time of reporting, no casualties had been officially confirmed. Despite the scare, the sporting events at the complex—including handball, squash, and badminton—resumed later in the day, as the situation was successfully brought under control. For further nationwide updates and safety coverage, visit Channels TV – Nigeria’s Trusted News Source
Nollywood film star Mercy Johnson-Okojie has cleared the air regarding her health status following the circulation of a viral video that sparked widespread concern. The viral clip, taken from her cooking show Mercy’s Menu, featured a heartfelt conversation between Mercy and veteran actress Joke Silva, where she opened up about her personal health battles and notable weight changes. During this segment, she mentioned undergoing surgery to remove her thyroid after facing a cancer scare. However, this statement was widely misunderstood. Many fans assumed that the actress had been diagnosed with cancer and subsequently flooded social media with prayers and messages of support. In response, Mercy Johnson-Okojie took to her verified Instagram account to release a video statement, clarifying the misinformation. She confirmed that she is not battling cancer and explained the nature of her condition. In her words, “I’m grateful for the love, the calls, the messages, and the prayers, but I need to clarify that I do not have cancer. My doctor initially suspected a tumour on my thyroid might be cancerous, but after thorough medical examinations, it was confirmed to be benign.” Mercy further elaborated, “A short clip from Mercy’s Menu has been making rounds. Unfortunately, it was edited in a way that lacked full context. What I said was that I had a cancer scare. There was a swelling on my neck – as you might notice from the scar – and my medical team treated it seriously. I had complications with my thyroid gland.” She concluded her video message with reassurance: “I am perfectly healthy. Thank you all again for your concern and support, but please be assured – I do not have cancer.” Reference on thyroid conditions: Mayo Clinic – Thyroid Nodules
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (John 1:1). Speech creates sound waves, and the original source material for creation is sound. This is because sound is the energy produced by words. When God spoke, creation came into being. His words possessed the energy that formed and caused everything He said to materialize. Why did He have to speak? Why didn’t He simply make everything without speaking? He was giving us a precedent and, more importantly, showing us the importance of sound coding. Sound coding is the assignment of meaning, interpretation, and communication of sound or the cognitive process for the creation of sound. For example, if I say “Haha” and tell you it means “stop,” only you, who received that instruction, will understand what “Haha” means. Others who don’t know the code will not comprehend its meaning. Sound coding, therefore, is the process of embedding instructions, meaning and information into sound waves. When you’re teaching a child a language, for example, you’re encoding sound into that child by talking to the child; you’re transmitting something into that child’s memory. If you were talking Spanish to that child, the child would end up speaking Spanish because you’ve given that child the sound codes for the Spanish language. Therefore, there’s memory; the child captures the message. Now, here’s what God did: He spoke creation into being. When He said “Let there be light,” light became; He spoke to the darkness and light came out of the darkness. In that entire account of creation in Genesis 1, we find God talking. Even when He made man in His image, He still talked to the man. Why did God have to talk? Because by talking, you create a sound code. This sound code carries the instruction, meaning, and purpose embedded in your words. We talked about the energy of words earlier; all of creation responds to the sound code of your words. Your words carry a creative force. Every word you speak is a wave that carries meaning, purpose, and potential for creating, instructing, and communicating. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the creative power of words. Through your Word, all things were made, and by speaking in faith, I align with your divine principles. I use my words wisely to encode life, meaning and purpose in everything I say. Thank you for teaching me these profound truths and for making me a creator through the power of my words, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYGenesis 1:3And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. Hebrews 11:3Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear. Mark 11:23For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 9:1-41 & 2 Kings 4-5 2-Year Bible Reading PlanMark 11:27-33 & Numbers 23 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: Everywhere I go, the Lord has the right people at the right place and at the right time to favour my course. The ability of God is at work in me today, and I’m conscious of it! I don’t function in my own ability or strength, for God’s inherent ability is in me. My strength is renewed daily, and I’m divinely energized at all times for victory. Good health, success, and prosperity are the hallmarks of my daily life. I enjoy life to the full always, to the glory of God the Father. I walk in supernatural strength, supernatural health, supernatural supply, and supernatural abilities every day. I am making progress with giant strides as I fulfill the ministry and destiny that God has for me. My words are full of power and authority; therefore I live a life of victory, success, divine health, abundance, excellence, and glory. I am not a victim but a victor. God’s Word is producing what it talks about in my life. I am strengthened with divine enablement in my inner man by the Holy Ghost. I function today with the Spirit of might, dominion, and excellence. 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. I am recording great and notable achievements in my ministry, career, finances, academics, family, and in all that concerns me. I am enjoying my days in success, progress, peace, joy, health, and unending prosperity. My eyes of understanding are enlightened; I see the invisible and I’m empowered to do the impossible. My life goes only in the direction of God’s purpose; therefore, I’ll never be sick in life. I can only grow from strength to strength, for divinity has been activated in my body. The life of Christ in me makes me superhuman! I am making progress, rising like an edifice higher and higher irrespective of daunting challenges, persecutions, hardships, and troubles around the nations of the world. When the challenges of life cast men down, my testimony will forever be that there’s a lifting up for me. I have the life of God in every fibre of my being. I can do all things by the strength and ability of God, which is working in me mightily in Jesus’ Name. Amen. Speak in tongues.
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A coalition of advocacy organizations based in Northern Nigeria has dismissed the calls demanding the probe and suspension of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, regarding an alleged N80 billion fraud involving his aide, Torhile Uchi. This stance was communicated in a statement issued on Monday by Prince Miaphen, a civil rights advocate and the coalition’s national coordinator. The coalition maintained that the allegations directed at Akume are baseless and are intended to divert attention from the governance efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. In their defense of the SGF, the northern advocacy group, aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda, firmly opposed the suspension demands. They emphasized that the accusations are not only unfounded but also serve a broader political agenda aimed at discrediting Tinubu’s reforms. “These accusations are deliberate acts by political disruptors who are threatened by the progress and direction of President Tinubu’s leadership,” Miaphen stated. He further stressed, “We express unwavering confidence in the integrity and capability of Senator Akume. We commend President Tinubu for his unwavering support of a leader who exemplifies integrity and diligence. Nigerians should not be misled by these fabricated stories.” It is important to note that the group, Arewa United Patriots, had earlier called for Senator Akume’s suspension, alleging his interference in a high-profile corruption case. As of the latest updates, neither the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) nor the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has made any official remarks concerning the claims. For verified information on anti-corruption policies and actions in Nigeria, refer to the official EFCC website. Related News:
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Former United States President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with a severe form of prostate cancer, which has metastasized to his bones, according to a statement issued by his personal office on Sunday. The announcement detailed that Biden underwent evaluation the previous week following complaints of worsening urinary symptoms. Medical assessments subsequently identified a prostate nodule, and further testing confirmed that the 82-year-old former leader had developed prostate cancer with a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5) — signaling a highly aggressive variant of the illness. Medical professionals also verified that the disease has already spread to the bone. “Although this type of cancer is highly aggressive, it has been identified as hormone-sensitive, which makes it manageable through targeted medical treatment,” the statement noted. Biden and his family are reportedly working closely with his healthcare team to determine the most appropriate course of treatment moving forward, the office added. This diagnosis emerges approximately ten months after Biden withdrew from the 2024 U.S. presidential race, amid rising concern regarding his age and overall health. His withdrawal followed intense criticism after a debate with Donald Trump in June 2024, during which Biden appeared disoriented and physically unsteady. That performance sparked a wave of concern among senior members of the Democratic Party and major media outlets, many of whom openly urged him to step down from the race. Biden officially exited the race on July 21, 2024, publicly endorsing then-Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic candidate. However, despite his support, Harris lost the election to Donald Trump, who was inaugurated for a second term on January 20, 2025. Now retired from politics, Biden has maintained a low public profile, making few appearances. Still, he continues to hold symbolic influence within the Democratic Party.
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Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, has shed light on why President Bola Tinubu received a special invitation to Rome from Pope Leo XIV. According to LMSINT MEDIA, President Tinubu departed Abuja for Rome on Saturday, honoring a personal invitation from Pope Leo XIV, the current leader of the Roman Catholic Church. President Tinubu’s visit coincides with the inaugural mass celebrating the beginning of Pope Leo XIV’s Papacy as the 267th Bishop of Rome. He was accompanied by top figures in Nigeria’s Catholic community. The formal invitation, issued by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, emphasized the need for Tinubu’s presence at this significant religious ceremony. LMSINT MEDIA also reported that prior to becoming widely recognized at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV — formerly known as Robert Prevost — served as Prior General of the Augustinian Order from 2001 to 2013 and had visited Nigeria on nine occasions. Even after concluding his role as Prior General, Prevost maintained a strong relationship with Nigeria. Notably, in 2016, while he was Bishop of Chiclayo in Peru, he was invited to Abuja for the Mid-Chapter Assembly of the Nigerian Augustinian Order. Before his elevation to the Papacy, Cardinal Prevost had plans to return to Nigeria in July for the ordination of new priests within the Augustinian community. Bianca Ojukwu, who appeared live on NTA Weekend File from Rome shortly after Tinubu arrived, explained that the Pope’s long-standing relationship with Nigeria significantly influenced the decision to invite President Tinubu in person. She highlighted Pope Leo XIV’s familiarity with Nigeria, noting that he has firsthand knowledge of the streets and chapels in cities like Abuja and Maiduguri. Additionally, she emphasized Nigeria’s position as one of the fastest-growing Catholic populations globally. Discussing the potential diplomatic value of the Papal invitation, Ojukwu stated that Pope Leo XIV’s relationship with Nigeria could strengthen ties between the Vatican and the West African country. “As the spiritual leader of over 1.4 billion Catholics globally, Pope Leo XIV acknowledges the turbulence in today’s world,” she said. “His leadership can contribute to a new world order rooted in peace and stability — something Nigeria’s Catholic population deeply values.” Ojukwu also appreciated the recognition Nigeria received from the Papacy, highlighting its role as Africa’s most populous country and an influential player in promoting peace and religious harmony. She further remarked on the symbolic importance of President Tinubu — a Muslim — attending a Catholic mass, indicating his inclusive leadership style. “It’s quite telling that despite being a Muslim, the President accepted the invitation to participate in the Pontifical mass. It reflects his commitment to unity and his role as a leader for all Nigerians, regardless of faith,” she concluded. Among those who traveled with Tinubu were Archbishop Lucius Ugorji of Owerri, President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria; Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja; Archbishop Alfred Martins of Lagos; and Bishop Matthew Kukah of the Sokoto Diocese. Related News:Learn more about Pope Leo XIV on Britannica
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Princess Opeyemi Bright has made history as she officially assumes office as the youngest serving Mayor in the United Kingdom. At just 29, she now holds the esteemed title of First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham. Her official inauguration took place on Friday, May 16, 2025, marking a significant milestone in British politics. Born in the United Kingdom to Nigerian parents, Princess Bright’s appointment has been met with widespread celebration as a shining example of diverse representation, youth leadership, and the growing global presence of the Nigerian diaspora. “This is nothing short of God’s grace,” she expressed during her inauguration ceremony. “I am honoured to serve this borough, and as a proud Nigerian, I will uphold my heritage with grace and excellence. I hope this journey encourages others to step forward, lead, and make a difference.” Her political journey began at age 22 when she was first elected as a councillor. Since then, over the past seven years, Princess Bright has earned recognition as a dedicated voice for youth development, social inclusion, and economic accessibility. Her rise to the mayoralty is notably inspired by her mother, Dr. Councillor Afolasade Bright, who previously served as Civic Mayor of Hackney between 2006 and 2007. Additionally, her father, Pastor Gbolahan Bright, MBE, is a respected clergyman affiliated with the Redeemed Christian Church of God, further rooting her leadership within a legacy of service. Princess Bright’s achievement is viewed as part of a larger wave of Nigerian trailblazers shaping politics across the globe. Figures such as Kemi Badenoch, the UK’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Chi Onwurah, Labour MP, Uzoma Asagwara in Canada, and Esther Agbaje in the U.S. exemplify how Nigerians abroad are transforming political landscapes and dismantling stereotypes. Her elevation to this leadership role also counters the prevailing belief that young people are detached from governance. It reinforces the impact young leaders — especially women — can have in shaping communities and influencing change. Experts suggest her achievement could offer valuable insights for Nigerian policymakers, especially in terms of engaging the diaspora and supporting young leaders through strategic development programs. Princess Bright’s historic accomplishment goes far beyond personal success. It stands as a symbol of hope and empowerment for young Nigerians worldwide. Related News:
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The Abia State Government has officially recognized two former National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members for their significant contributions toward reducing unemployment and preventing the spread of viral diseases in the rural communities where they served. The honorees, Owums Francis Chimaobim, an Information Technology expert, and Dr. Ngene Joseph Ekene, a medical practitioner, were commended by Governor Alex Otti for their exceptional service during their NYSC tenure. Chimaobim received accolades for initiating business training for widows and supporting youth entrepreneurship in the Umuawa Alaocha community. His efforts empowered the local population, offering financial backing and skill development to drive sustainable income generation. Meanwhile, Dr. Ekene was celebrated for organizing comprehensive health screenings for HIV, Syphilis, Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B, and C, and for assisting in the safe childbirth of a pregnant woman in the Uzuakoli community. The State Government emphasized that Chimaobim’s entrepreneurial initiatives played a vital role in steering the youth away from criminal activities and helping them escape poverty. During the award presentation, Mrs. Gladys Adama, the Abia State NYSC Coordinator, commended both individuals for dedicating their personal resources and time to addressing community health and employment issues. She handed them certificates of recognition and a cash reward on behalf of Governor Otti, encouraging all current NYSC members in the state to actively participate in community development initiatives wherever they are posted. In his response, Chimaobim encouraged Nigerian youth to break free from economic hardship by acquiring practical skills. He urged them to stay away from crime and instead focus on becoming job creators through self-reliance and skill-building. He noted that fostering employment should not be left to the government alone but should be a shared societal responsibility. Related News:
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Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, the Chief Press Secretary to Abia State Governor Alex Otti, has emphasized that the people of Abia State are primarily concerned about effective governance, not the Governor’s physical location of operation. Speaking during a live broadcast of Open Parliament on Family Love FM in Umuahia, Ukoha addressed circulating speculations suggesting that live animals—such as cows, vultures, and tortoises—were allegedly interred within the premises of the new Government House before Governor Otti took office. He also mentioned there were unverified reports alleging that incantations had been performed to harm the Governor shortly after his election victory. Ukoha clarified that the current administration does not subscribe to these narratives and treats them strictly as rumours. Nonetheless, he raised questions about the growing insistence by opposition figures that Governor Otti must relocate to the new Government House. He stated: “I sincerely hope it’s not what I’m imagining. Why is this call coming from the same political group? The pressure to occupy the Government House is becoming suspicious.” Reiterating the nature of the claims, Ukoha said: “Earlier, there were stories that cows, vultures, and tortoises were buried within the Government House and that rituals were performed aiming to eliminate the Governor when he had just been elected. That’s what was being whispered.” While acknowledging that these stories were mere speculation, he found it curious that the push for the Governor’s relocation was coming from the same quarters that spread the original rumours. Ukoha went on to update the public about the major renovations underway at the old Government House. The reconstruction, overseen by the current administration, includes upgrades to the Secretary to the State Government’s (SSG) office and the Government House medical facility. He also lauded Governor Otti for completing the long-abandoned Port Harcourt Road, which had been in disrepair for years. Ukoha further highlighted that multiple roads in Aba—previously in deplorable condition—have been rehabilitated under the Governor’s leadership. Related News:
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The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) has taken decisive action by sealing several establishments across Lagos for breaching environmental laws, specifically those related to noise pollution. The enforcement operation, conducted on Wednesday, focused on establishments located within the Mainland region of the state. Affected areas include Onike, Yaba, China Town, Ojota, Pedro, Bariga, Magodo, Shomolu, and Ebute Metta. According to a statement issued by LASEPA on Friday, a diverse group of premises faced closure, ranging from religious centers and hotels to residential buildings, warehouses, and bakeries. Some of the affected establishments include: In his statement, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, the General Manager of LASEPA, reaffirmed the agency’s unwavering resolve to uphold environmental safety and promote public well-being. He emphasized that noise pollution continues to pose a major risk to the quality of urban living in Lagos. “Today’s enforcement is a strong indication of our dedication to safeguarding the environment and enhancing public health in Lagos,” Dr. Ajayi said. He called on both individuals and businesses to strictly adhere to environmental regulations, stressing that LASEPA is committed to creating a cleaner, safer, and healthier Lagos for all residents. Related News: To learn more about noise pollution and its health effects, visit the World Health Organization (WHO) page on environmental noise.
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Former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode, has expressed sorrow and outrage following disturbing reports that insurgents in Zamfara State allegedly fed newborn twins to dogs. According to LMSINT MEDIA, the horrific act was brought to light by Aminu Jaji, a member of the House of Representatives, during a session on Wednesday. He claimed that the situation in Zamfara had worsened significantly, to the extent that infants born in captivity were reportedly handed over to dogs by the terrorists. The lawmaker recounted that a pregnant woman had been kidnapped by the insurgents. Upon giving birth to a set of twins while in captivity, the group’s leader reportedly took the babies and threw them to their dogs. “The dogs devoured them, one after the other,” he painfully stated. In response, Femi Fani-Kayode took to his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday, calling it one of the worst crimes against humanity he had ever heard of. “Is there a more heartless atrocity against mankind than this? Is there a more shocking evidence of human cruelty?” he asked. He went further to question the depths of this cruelty: “What could be more savage or barbaric than this? Oh Lord, see our grief. Rise for our nation’s defence and wipe away this evil.” The former minister emphasized that Nigeria must take decisive action to eliminate such evil from its land. “These monstrous psychopaths must be erased from existence and cast into eternal condemnation. This godless group must be removed completely from our soil. “With unity and courage, we shall conquer. They will never break our resolve. We shall never submit to their terror,” he affirmed. Details on the situation in Zamfara State can be found through the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.Related posts from LMSINT MEDIA:
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially commissioned two brand-new Agusta 109 Trekker helicopters into the operational assets of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), enhancing its capability in ongoing security operations. In a statement released by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Director of Public Relations and Information at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters, the ceremony took place at the Presidential Air Fleet Apron in Abuja. The event was one of the major highlights marking the 61st anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force. The President, represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, commended the Nigerian Air Force for its unwavering commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s national security. He reaffirmed the federal government’s continued support for the ongoing modernisation of the country’s defence infrastructure. During his address, President Tinubu acknowledged the Air Force’s significant contributions to peacekeeping missions in The Gambia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Mali. He described the NAF as a “beacon of operational excellence” and a symbol of national pride. President Tinubu emphasized the strategic relevance of the newly inducted aircraft, stating, “Today’s commissioning represents yet another crucial step in our consistent efforts to bolster the capabilities of our military, especially the Air Force, in ensuring a safer and more secure nation.” He also highlighted that the Agusta 109 Trekker helicopters were added alongside other cutting-edge platforms such as the Diamond-62 surveillance aircraft, T-129 ATAK helicopters, and the King Air 360i aircraft. This, he noted, aligns with the administration’s focus on fleet enhancement and improved welfare for military personnel. Security, he stressed, remains a fundamental pillar of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He reaffirmed his government’s dedication to equipping the armed forces to meet the challenges of national security effectively. President Tinubu concluded by stating, “Without security, there can be no meaningful economic development or justice. Our armed forces must continue to confront and defeat those who threaten our collective peace and stability.” For more information on the Agusta 109 Trekker specifications and its role in modern defence aviation, visit Leonardo Helicopters – Agusta 109 Trekker Check these out for more inspiring news:
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The Federal Government of Nigeria has categorically denied circulating reports suggesting that the Ministerial Press Briefing Sessions have been moved from Abuja to London. Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, addressed these claims during the eighth edition of the Ministerial Press Briefing Series held at the National Press Centre in Abuja. In his opening remarks, Minister Idris emphasized that the briefings remain firmly rooted in Nigeria, serving as a platform for government officials to communicate directly with citizens. He stated, “This is your answer to the insinuation that the press briefing session is relocating abroad. We have our responsibility first to the Nigerian nation, and that’s why we invite these ministers to come here and address Nigerians and those outside this country directly from nowhere but the National Press Centre here in Abuja.” The session was attended by key government figures, including the Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev; and the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi. Senator Umahi also refuted the false reports, affirming the government’s commitment to transparency and direct communication with the Nigerian populace. Economic Indicators Show Positive Trends Minister Idris highlighted recent economic data indicating a gradual improvement in Nigeria’s economy. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the headline inflation rate decreased to 23.71% in April 2025 from 24.23% in March 2025. Month-on-month inflation also saw a significant drop from 3.90% in March to 1.86% in April. Food inflation, a major concern for many Nigerians, eased to 21.26% year-on-year in April, down from 21.79% in March. This decline is attributed to price reductions in staple items such as maize flour, wheat grain, yam flour, okra, soya beans, rice, and beans. Minister Idris credited these positive trends to President Tinubu’s focused interventions and reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy and improving the living conditions of Nigerians. He assured that the administration would continue to implement people-centered policies to sustain economic growth and shared prosperity. (National Bureau of Statistics)(allAfrica.com)
