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Omokri Expresses Unwavering Admiration for Jonathan Amid Support for Tinubu’s Emergency Declaration

2025-03-23T13:00:00.000-07:00

Lagos, Nigeria – March 23, 2025 – Renowned Nigerian author and political analyst Reno Omokri has aroused debate with a passionate speech that combines strong support for President Bola Tinubu's recent activities in Rivers State with almost reverent adoration for former President Goodluck Jonathan.

In an emotional Facebook post, Omokri emphasised his unwavering view that President Tinubu's decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspend Governor Simi Fubara, and dissolve the State House of Assembly for a six-month term is "in the best interests of Nigeria." Omokri emphasised his commitment, declaring, "I stand very strongly by my opinion, under the rain and under the sun," highlighting his unflinching support for the contentious move.

However, Omokri's speech took an interesting turn when he expressed his deep affection for former President Goodluck Jonathan, whom he characterised as "the person I admire most in the world of politics." In a stunning display of allegiance, Omokri declared that if his viewpoint differed from Jonathan's, the former president's judgement would be "automatically superior, above, and less fallible" than his own. "Perfection belongs only to God," he continued, recognising human limitations while raising Jonathan to near-iconic status.

Omokri's admiration for Jonathan, whom he described as "the face of democracy in Africa," was evident. "Former President Jonathan is my leader, and flesh and blood cannot separate us," he said, implying a kinship that goes beyond political differences. The statement ended with a prayer, "May God bless Dr. Goodluck Jonathan."

Omokri's unwavering support for Tinubu's emergency measures, combined with his near-idolatrous adoration for Jonathan, has piqued political watchers' interest. While Omokri did not say whether Jonathan had publicly criticised Tinubu's activities in Rivers State, his preemptive deference to the former president suggests an internal conflict between personal conviction and allegiance to a revered character.

Tinubu's emergency declaration in Rivers State has already sparked controversy across Nigeria, with advocates claiming it addresses regional insecurity, while others see it as an overreach of federal power. Omokri's perspective offers a new dimension to the discussion, combining policy backing with a compelling personal experience.

As Nigeria navigates this politically volatile period, Omokri's statements serve as both a rallying cry for Tinubu supporters and a tribute to Goodluck Jonathan's long-lasting influence in the country's politics. It is unclear whether Jonathan will weigh in on the Rivers State conflict, but the former president's legacy is significant to Omokri.

Three Nigerians Freed in Saudi Arabia After Wrongful Drug Trafficking Charges

2025-01-06T13:08:00.000-08:00

In a significant diplomatic achievement, three Nigerian women—Hadiza Abba, Fatima Umate Malah, and Fatima Kannai Gambo—were acquitted of drug trafficking charges in Saudi Arabia after enduring 10 months in detention. They had been arrested on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdul Azeez International Airport in Madinah.

The trio’s arrest was linked to a previous incident where two Nigerian nationals were caught with cocaine totaling nearly 1.7kg. Accused of complicity in the case, the three women faced a legal battle that attracted significant attention both in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed that their acquittal was the result of rigorous diplomatic and legal efforts by the Nigerian government. These engagements led to their discharge and subsequent release to the Nigerian Consulate-General in Jeddah.

Ambassador Muazam Nayaya and the Honourable Consul-General of Nigeria in Jeddah personally received the women, who are now awaiting the completion of immigration processes to return home and reunite with their families.

The Ministry emphasized its commitment to protecting the rights of Nigerians abroad and ensuring due process in all cases involving citizens. Their release serves as a testament to the importance of sustained diplomatic efforts and international cooperation in addressing complex legal challenges.

Napoli fans and Nigerian football supporters clash over Osimhen's reception

2024-02-16T14:45:00.000-08:00

Victor Osimhen

In a digital showdown that exemplifies the passion and intensity of football popularity, fans of Serie A champions Napoli got into a heated debate with Nigerian football fans. The spark? The Italian club posted an innocent yet symbolic photo to welcome their star player, Victor Osimhen, who had recently played for the Nigerian team that reached the African Cup of Nations final.

The photo on Instagram, accompanied by the seemingly innocuous caption "Back to Business," sparked a firestorm of comments, garnering about 5,000 responses in just few hours. Trouble erupted when a Nigerian fan asked Napoli supporters, "Why the Osimhen hate, Napoli fans?" "Isn't he your player?"

What followed was a flurry of back-and-forth exchanges as both sets of fans vied for allegiance, with some defending Osimhen's honour and others criticising his dedication to the club. A Napoli fan described Osimhen as "spoiled and ungrateful," emphasising the club's preference for players who are professional and dedicated.

The debate heated up as fans expressed their displeasure, accusing Osimhen of a lack of passion and commitment to the club's cause. During the commotion, accusations of racism were refuted, with one fan blaming Osimhen's strained relationship with supporters on his rumoured desire to leave the club.

As tensions rose, differing perspectives emerged on Osimhen's contribution to the team. While some lamented the possibility of losing their talisman, others were confident in finding a suitable replacement. Nigerian fans rallied around Osimhen, defending his honour and emphasising his unwavering commitment to the club.

The schism spread to discussions about Napoli's reception of Osimhen, with some doubting the sincerity of his welcome and predicting the consequences of his departure. Among the vitriol, poignant reminders of previous departures emerged, serving as a sobering reality check for the club and its fans.

Ultimately, amidst the tumult of opposing views and emotions, one fact remains undisputed: Osimhen's time at Napoli will soon come to an end. Regardless of the outcome, his legacy as a key figure in the club's recent successes, including their first Serie A title in over 30 years, will live on.

In the dynamic arena of football fandom, where passions run high and allegiances are fiercely defended, clashes like these demonstrate the sport's extraordinary power to spark heated debates and inspire unwavering loyalty.

Super Eagles Captain Musa Calls for an End to Cyberbullying Against Iwobi

2024-02-12T13:47:00.000-08:00

Super Eagles Captain Ahmed Musa issued a heartfelt plea to his fans and supporters on Monday, condemning the cyberbullying directed at teammate Alex Iwobi. Musa emphasised the gravity of cyberbullying in a recent social media post, describing it as both a violation of decency and a serious crime.

Musa highlighted the irony of claiming unity in football while engaging in behaviour that undermines individual players. He emphasised that, while losing a game is undoubtedly difficult, blaming a single player for the team's shortcomings is both unfair and unjust. Musa reiterated the fundamental principle that victories and losses are the result of collective efforts, with each team member contributing to the overall performance.

Musa praised Alex Iwobi's dedication and efforts on the pitch in his message, and urged fans to channel their support constructively rather than spreading negativity. He emphasised the importance of expressing genuine affection and encouragement to players, especially during difficult times.

The captain urged fans to support one another and stand united, regardless of the outcome of the game. He thanked the team for its continued support and urged everyone to rally behind their players in a positive and united manner.

Musa's message, as captain of the Nigerian national team, serves as a reminder to the football community about the importance of respect, unity, and support. His call to end cyberbullying of Alex Iwobi reflects a broader commitment to fostering an inclusive and encouraging sports culture.

The Brain Drain Challenge: Why We Must Improve Doctors' Wages

2023-09-17T14:11:00.001-07:00

It's disheartening to see the growing number of Nigerian doctors seeking opportunities abroad due to better compensation. According to recent data, 281 Nigerian doctors are now practicing in other African countries, and a staggering 11,872 in the UK!

This alarming trend not only poses a significant loss of talent for our nation but also impacts the quality of healthcare services in our hospitals, which are left understaffed.

The situation highlights the urgent need to improve doctors' wages and working conditions in Nigeria. Our healthcare professionals deserve better recognition and compensation for their dedication and expertise.

Let's not forget that these doctors are being actively recruited by other nations, offering higher pay. To retain our healthcare workforce and ensure the well-being of our citizens, we must address this issue promptly.

The brain drain is not just a loss for our healthcare system but a loss for our entire nation. It's time for us to invest in our doctors and healthcare infrastructure to build a healthier and brighter future for Nigeria. 🇳🇬 💪

#HealthcareMatters #BrainDrain #NigeriaHealthcare

http://victorikoli.blogspot.com/

Neymar's Influence: A Social Media Phenomenon

2023-08-16T02:40:00.005-07:00

Neymar's Social Media Stardom

In the world of professional football, few players can match the electrifying charisma and global impact of Neymar Jr. His on-field skills are only rivaled by his social media presence, making him a true influencer both on and off the pitch. One remarkable testament to his influence is the unprecedented growth that clubs experience across their social media platforms when Neymar is associated with them. One such example is Al Hilal, a football club that saw an astounding 100% growth in its social media following after the announcement of Neymar's involvement. In the realm of drawing numbers and attention, Neymar stands tall alongside legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Neymar's prowess on social media platforms is nothing short of astonishing. With over 200 million followers on Instagram alone, he ranks among the most-followed individuals on the platform. His vibrant posts, engaging stories, and interaction with fans create a sense of intimacy and connection that transcends the distance between stadiums and screens. Neymar's content strategy skillfully balances his personal life, training glimpses, and philanthropic efforts, endearing him to a diverse audience that includes football aficionados and casual fans alike.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Neymar's influence is its direct correlation with the growth of clubs' social media platforms. The announcement of Neymar's association with a club has consistently resulted in a surge of followers and engagement. A prime example is Al Hilal, a Saudi Arabian club that witnessed an extraordinary 100% increase in its social media following following the revelation of Neymar's involvement. This phenomenon showcases the profound influence Neymar wields, turning him into a catalyst for generating online attention and buzz.

Neymar's ability to pull numbers and capture attention puts him in the same league as football's most iconic figures, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. While Ronaldo and Messi have been dominant forces on and off the pitch for years, Neymar has managed to carve out his own niche, harnessing the power of social media to solidify his status as a global icon. The trio represents an elite group of players who transcend traditional boundaries, shaping the landscape of modern football and setting new standards for influence and engagement.

Neymar's influence extends far beyond the boundaries of the football pitch. His mastery of social media platforms has transformed him into a global influencer, capturing the hearts and attention of millions around the world. The exponential growth witnessed by clubs like Al Hilal upon Neymar's association underscores the magnitude of his impact. As he stands alongside legends Ronaldo and Messi in terms of pulling numbers and commanding attention, Neymar's influence remains an unparalleled force in the ever-evolving world of football and digital media.

“All Eyes on the Judiciary”: Reassessing the Decision to Dissolve the Advertisement Body

2023-08-15T16:10:00.002-07:00

A decision to dissolve the Secretariat of

the Advertising Standard Panel (ASP) by the Federal Government (Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria-ARCON) following the clearance of the billboard captioned "All Eyes on the Judiciary" in recent days has prompted a debate about the delicate balance between freedom of expression and responsible regulation. This decision, motivated by worries that the billboard could be interpreted as a threat and intimidation to the judiciary, particularly the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal, raises significant questions regarding the role of advertising in expressing viewpoints and creating transparency in society.

The Importance of Freedom of Expression

Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of any democratic society. It allows individuals to express their opinions, engage in public discourse, and hold those in power accountable. In the context of the advertisement in question, "All Eyes on The Judiciary," it is crucial to consider the broader message being conveyed. The phrase may have been intended as a call for transparency, accountability, and public scrutiny in the judicial process rather than a direct threat or act of intimidation.

A Question of Intent

It is essential to recognise the difference between expressing concern and issuing a threat. The assumption that the advertisement constitutes a threat to the judiciary, particularly the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal, hinges on interpreting the intention behind the message. Instead of assuming nefarious motives, there is a need for a balanced approach that acknowledges the potential for diverse interpretations of such advertisements.

Preserving Transparency and Accountability

Advertisements, like any form of media, have the power to influence public perception. However, it is crucial not to stifle public discourse or suppress criticism in the name of protecting institutions. The decision to dissolve the ASP Secretariat and suspend individuals seems to raise questions about whether such actions inadvertently undermine the principles of transparency and accountability that both the judiciary and regulatory bodies aim to uphold.

Balancing Regulation and Expression

While it is understandable that regulatory bodies should uphold ethical standards in advertising, it is equally important to ensure that decisions are based on a thorough and fair assessment. The knee-jerk reaction of dissolving the secretariat and suspending individuals without comprehensive investigation might risk undermining the credibility of regulatory processes.

Conclusion

In our pursuit of a just and transparent society, it is essential to foster an environment where citizens can freely express their opinions, even when those opinions concern institutions as critical as the judiciary. The assumption that the advertisement "All Eyes on The Judiciary" is a threat and intimidation should be critically examined, taking into account the potential for diverse interpretations. Rather than reacting hastily, a measured response that balances the principles of freedom of expression and responsible regulation can contribute to a healthier public discourse and the ongoing pursuit of justice and accountability.

Ukraine-Russia story briefs Monday February 28

2022-02-28T12:15:00.001-08:00

Latvian citizens will be able to volunteer to fight for Ukraine

Latvia's parliament in Riga unanimously passed the necessary legal framework on Monday, allowing its citizens to join the fight against Russia's military advances in Ukraine.

IOC wants Russia and Belarus athletes banned; Putin loses Olympic order

In the aftermath of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) called on sports federations to deny athletes and officials from Russia and Belarus entry into international events on Monday. In an unprecedented move, Russian President Vladimir Putin and two other top political figures have had their Olympic Orders revoked.

Over 500,000 people have flee Ukraine

The number of people fleeing war in Ukraine has risen to over 500,000, while a scandal erupted at the country's border with Poland over alleged racist treatment of African refugees. According to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, over 500,000 people have fled the conflict in Ukraine to neighboring countries.

US closes its embassy in Minsk and authorises diplomats in Russia to leave.

According to the State Department, the United States is suspending its embassy operations in the Belarusian capital of Minsk. It has also authorized the voluntary departure from Russia of non-essential personnel from the US Embassy in Moscow, as well as their family members.

Russia declares tit-for-tat closure of 35 countries' airspace.

In response to multiple countries' decisions to close their airspace to Russian aircraft, Russia's aviation authority Rosaviatsiya announced on Monday that it would close Russian airspace to 35 countries.

All EU member states and Canada are affected by the indefinite ban.

As a Russian ally, Japan imposes sanctions on Belarus

Japan intends to impose sanctions on Belarus as a Russian ally, according to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, as Moscow continues its attacks on Ukraine. According to Kishida, Tokyo's sanctions will target Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and other government officials.

FIFA expels Russia from Qatar 2022 World Cup

The governing body of football FIFA and UEFA, the European Union's governing bodies, have suspended Russian clubs and national teams from all competitions "until further notice," the federations announced on Monday. As things stand, Russia will be unable to compete in the World Cup play-offs next month or the 2022 World Cup in Qatar due to FIFA's decision.

Russian-Ukrainian peace talks end without a breakthrough

On Monday, peace talks between Russia and Ukraine ended without a breakthrough.

"We're travelling back to the capitals for consultations," Ukrainian presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak said as he exited the meeting on the Belarus-Ukraine border.

Homecoming to Nigeria Is Dangerous

2021-01-14T11:30:00.008-08:00

Reviewing the Assassination of Ogacheko Atanu and a Warning to Nigerians in Diaspora on the State of Insecurity in Nigeria

Ogacheko Atanu, an Idah born, world acclaimed and Saudi Arabia based drilling engineer was assassinated by unknown gunmen on Saturday, 9th of January, 2021 while holidaying in his country home in Idah, Kogi State of Nigeria. He was scheduled to travel back to Saudi on the morning of the next day before he was killed on that night in his hometown.

Ogacheko had such a brilliant career while he was at Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Nigeria. It was his sheer brilliance and distinction while at Shell that got him headhunted by Saudi Aramco, the world largest oil company based in Saudi Arabia, where he worked until his assassination in his house in his hometown of Idah.

Homecoming for Ogacheko has had a bad history. Some years ago, after he started work at Saudi Aramco, he decided to visit his hometown and in course of the journey, on his way to Idah, he had a terribly fatal car accident which broke his limbs. Saudi Aramco did not take chances regarding the treatment of one of its best executives. So the company flew a special air ambulance (a chartered plane equipped with specialised medical equipment) into Nigeria and evacuated Ogacheko for treatment in Saudi Arabia. That’s how valuable he was to the company. And it didn’t matter whether he was a Nigerian and a non-national of Saudi Arabia.

So why would Ogacheko choose to come to his hometown under the present circumstances and be brutally murdered in his country home in such a wicked manner? Reports say he was asked by the gunmen to say his last prayers and despite offering them so much money, probably in dollars, they shot at him several times and he died instantly. Why?

Shouldn’t Ogacheko have taken the state of affairs in local security seriously enough to stay away from Nigeria at this time? With his status, he had enough money to arrange armed private guards or special police protection but why didn’t he do that? He also had the means to obtain a licence to own guns with which he could have repelled the assassins or defended himself. Why would uneducated, barbaric, unskilled hoodlums just kill an expatriate of that repute just like that without any resistance? Ogacheko was helpless even in his hometown; he was murdered mercilessly in his country home. Why?

Some Nigerians in diaspora get so accustomed to their host countries which have secure environments that they underestimate the Nigerian security situation. These members of the diaspora should seek proper travel advisory before coming home for holidays and other purposes. But they are usually overconfident in their belief that Nigeria is their original country where they started. So they don’t feel so threatened as if things are not as bad as when they were once here. No! Things are no longer as they were. The security situation in Nigeria seems to be deteriorating by the day. Those of us who live here know the daily risks we face and we trust in God in unusual terms, everyday for our security. Why do you think many Nigerians say crazy prayers using terms like ‘fire and die’ and ‘Holy Ghost fire’?

The Nigerian government needs to do more to assure Nigerians in diaspora and indeed all Nigerians that there is enough security before certain travels can be made in our country.

In the meantime, all Nigerians in diaspora, especially the successful ones who are popular for their generosity, should weigh carefully all their travel plans to Nigeria. A direct advice is for them to stay away completely until the security situation improves or they should be prepared to learn and adopt the needed skills together with resources required to survive in Nigeria, in these precarious times of insecurity, whenever they visit.

Frank Tietie
Human Rights Lawyer
& Executive Director, Citizens Advocacy for Social & Economic Rights (CASER),
Writes from Abuja

French woman told not French enough for Quebec residency

2019-11-11T05:11:00.001-08:00

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Montreal: A French woman seeking permanent residency in Quebec was turned down on grounds on her French was not good enough.
Emilie Dubois, 31, has lived in the mainly French-speaking province since 2012, completed her doctoral thesis at Laval University in Quebec City in French started a small business in the province and even passed a language test.
But all that wasn't enough to convince Quebec officials to give her an immigration suitability certificate that is a prerequisite to gaining permanent residency.
"It's absurd," she told AFP.
French is the official language of government, commerce and the courts in Quebec -- a former French colony ceded to Britain in 1763.
But the province's French majority has often faced criticism for its arguably heavy-handed defense of the language of Moliere.
Most recently a backlash ensued over plans to require anyone wanting services in English to prove their ancestral English roots in the province.
According to a letter from the Quebec immigration ministry, Dubois was turned down because she had not completed her dissertation entirely in French.
One chapter of her doctoral thesis on cellular and molecular biology was written in English because it was a scholarly article published in a scientific journal. But the other four chapters were written in French.
"It's absurd, but I must believe that someone just made a mistake," said Dubois, a Francophone from Burgundy in eastern France.
"You just have to look at the reality of things and not consider that we are just boxes, folders, numbers, but that we are real people and if they have doubts, they can also reach out to us."
Quebec's immigration minister, Simon Jolin-Barrette, is reportedly aware of the case and has asked for a review.
Determined to press on, Dubois said "my desire to stay in Quebec is stronger."

AFP

The University of Ibadan ranked 17th top university in Africa

2019-11-03T07:55:00.001-08:00

The University of Ibadan has been named the top university in Nigeria and the 17th best university in Africa for 2019, according to US News & World Report’s sixth annual Global Universities survey.

The Best Global Universities rankings encompass the top 1,500 institutions spread across 81 countries. Universities were ranked on 13 indicators, including global and regional research reputation, publications, conferences, and international collaborations.

The University of Ibadan, UI as it is fondly referred to, overall ranked 733rd of all universities worldwide and the University of Nigeria Nsukka is ranked at 1393.

Ul ranked 299 in the world's top universities for clinical medicine. The University of Lagos ranks 560 and the University of Nigeria 740. The world's top universities for clinical medicine have shown strength in producing research related to a variety of medical and biomedical topics. These include anesthesia, cardiology, general and internal medicine, gastroenterology, obstetrics, ophthalmology, radiology and surgery. These are the best global universities for clinical medicine, based on their reputation and research in the field.

Established in 1948, the University of Ibadan is the first university in Nigeria.

The full details on 2019 Best Global Universities can be found here: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-global-universities.

Strong first half of year for German incoming tourism

2019-08-21T07:15:00.001-07:00

With an increase of 3.3 percent in June, German incoming tourism is continuing its steady growth. According to provisional figures from the Federal Statistical Office, 39.8 million international overnights were registered across hotels and accommodation establishments with more than ten beds between January and June – a three percent (1.2 million) rise on the equivalent period of the previous year.

“Destination Germany is positioning itself well within the increasingly competitive market“, says Petra Hedorfer, Chief Executive Officer of the German National Tourist Board (GNTB).“According to the latest trend analysis by IPK International to develop international travel in line with the World Travel Monitor, Germany’s incoming tourism is performing better than the worldwide average (plus 3.5 percent) with an increase of 3.7 percent. Germany is even generating a growth of four percent from European source markets, according to IPK, placing it well ahead of the European average (plus 2.5 percent).“

There was a 4.7 percent increase on comparative figures of the previous year in flight bookings made by overseas visitors throughout the first half of 2019, according to analyses by market research company Forward Keys. The segment of advance bookings (at least 120 days prior to departure) grew far above average by 11 percent.

Destination Germany’s partners confirm positive development

Gabriela Ahrens, Senior Director of Leisure Sales Home Markets (DACH) at Lufthansa Group, explains: “As our home market, Lufthansa’s focus is on Destination Germany. We have recognised the importance and potential of Germany’s incoming tourism, and are increasingly targeting the segment with various target group-orientated activities with the German National Tourist Board.” Andreas von Puttkamer, Head of Aviation at Munich Airport, adds: „In the first half of 2019, Munich Airport registered a new record of 22.7 million air passengers, with an increase just short of five percent (more than one million additional passengers). Once again, the intercontinental segment proved to be the driver of growth, seeing a rise of over ten percent within this period.” And there is a further record year in sight for Germany’s hotels, according to Markus Luthe, Managing Director of the German Hotel Association (IHA): “Holidays in Germany are back in trend in Germany in particular. In addition, bookings made by international guests are continuing to rise. With an increase of four percent, the average return per room (RevPAR) is even above the European average of 3.3 percent.”

With its “German Summer Cities” campaign, the German National Tourist Board has already been able to strengthen the popularity of Destination Germany this year. Visitor attractions are enjoying an especially dynamic increase in demand. Dr.-Ing. h.c. Roland Mack, Managing Partner of Europa-Park GmbH & Co Mack KG, explains: “Europa-Park kicked off the 2019 season with many new, exciting attractions. “Krønasår – The Museum-Hotel” was completed in May and is welcoming its first guests. In addition, we have recently celebrated the reopening of the Scandinavian themed area. These highlights have played a role in increasing our overnights from France, Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates within the first half of the year already.“

Evelina Hederer, Director of Business Development at Expedia Group Media Solutions, comments: “The demand from Germany’s TOP 5 incoming markets – the USA, Great Britain, Japan, Canada and Australia – increased by more than five percent in comparison to the previous year within the first half of 2019. Berlin and Hamburg were particularly popular with steady growth throughout the first six months, as were Cologne, Düsseldorf and the Black Forest, which even registered double-digit growth.”

Cautiously optimistic outlook for second half of year

Early indications for the second half of 2019 suggest ongoing stable development. According to Forward Keys, the advance bookings for flights from overseas markets to Germany were 2.1 percent above the comparative figures of the previous year at the end of July.

Petra Hedorfer adds: “These latest analyses should not let us forget that we still have major challenges such as weaker economic growth in the eurozone, climate discussions, trade conflicts and the possibility of a no-deal Brexit to overcome.”

Worshippers seek TB Joshua's blessing in Nazareth

2019-06-24T12:03:00.002-07:00

NAZARETH: Celebrity Nigerian Pastor TB Joshua attracted Evangelical Christians to Israel for a crusade, a mass faith-healing service outside Jesus's hometown of Nazareth on Sunday.

Some worshippers sang in various languages during the powerful gathering, presided over by TB Joshua, who has amassed millions of followers on social media from his base in Lagos.

"Jesus's father, Joseph, and his mother, Mary, came from here. What a blessing. No other place would have been better for Jesus to come from. It was God's design," Joshua told the crowd gathered in a sun-baked stadium on Mount Precipice.

When the self-described prophet descended from the stage to bless attendees, placing his hand on their heads, several declared themselves healed from sickness or infirmity. Attendants stood ready to catch those who fainted in excitement.

Minerva Resendiz, from Mexico, said she had come to see Joshua as part of the two-day gathering "to ask for healing, for a breakthrough ... to resolve conflicts in the family".

"I would like that (all people) could see a miracle through Jesus Christ," Resendiz, 40, said. Other pilgrims came from China, Russia, and African and South American countries.

Joshua founded and leads an evangelical ministry called The Synagogue, Church of All Nations. His Christian television network, Emmanuel TV, says its Youtube's channel is the most subscribed with well over one million followers.

Evangelicals made up roughly half of the more than 2 million Christian pilgrims who visited Israel in 2018, according to the International Christian Embassy in Jerusalem, which oversees evangelical outreach to Israel.

REUTERS

Nigeria’s Oshoala scores in record crowd women's match between Barca and Atletico

2019-03-17T12:13:00.000-07:00

Nigeria

’s Asisat Oshoala and Toni Duggan scored in Barcelona’s women’s 2-0 win over Atletico Madrid in Spanish Liga Femenina with a record crowd of 60,739 Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano on Sunday, less than three months before the start of the World Cup.

The attendance is the largest ever for a top-flight club match in European women's football while Atletico claimed the number also sets a new world record.

"A historic record attendance for a club match! Today we have at the Wanda Metropolitano 60,739 spectators!” read a post from the club's official Twitter account.

"The crowd cheered up our girls and set a world record for attendance at a women's club match," Atletico added in a statement.

The 2-0 win means the Catalan giants now sit just three points behind Atletico at the top of Liga Femenina.

The bumper attendance exceeds the previous European record set, also in Spain, on January 30, when a crowd of 48,121 turned out to watch Athletic Bilbao play Atletico Madrid at San Mames stadium.

The overall record for women's football remains the 90,185 spectators that attended the final of the 1999 World Cup at the Rose Bowl in California, when the United States beat

China

This year's World Cup in France will begin on June 7. Spain have qualified and will be in Group B, with Germany, China and South Africa.

Nigerian football officials charged with $9.5m fraud

2018-10-18T08:09:00.000-07:00

Abuja Three Nigerian football officials have been charged with fraud after allegedly diverting $9.5 million in FIFA grants for personal use, the country's anti-corruption unit said Thursday.
Christopher Andekin, Jafaru Fadanari Mamza, and Rajan Zaka allegedly committed the crime in 2015, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) said in a statement.
"The money was a grant given by the Federation of International Football Association, FIFA, for the development of football in Nigeria," it added.
EFCC lawyer Steve Odiase told reporters outside the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja that the case had been adjourned to a further hearing on November 28.
The body's spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren, told AFP separately that the defendants pleaded not guilty, and were given bail on condition they surrendered their passports and paid a five-million-naira ($13,755, 12,000-euro) surety.
Andekin is the director of administration and finance at the NFF while Mamza heads the finance and accounts department. Zaka is a cashier.
The court case is the latest to hit the embattled NFF, which has been embroiled in a leadership struggle for control that has brought Nigeria to the brink of FIFA sanctions.
Football's governing body and its equivalent in Africa, CAF, have called for calm and reforms to heal the rifts in the running of the sport in Nigeria.

Adidas takes 12-10 lead over Nike in World Cup shirt deals

2018-05-30T09:05:00.000-07:00

BERLIN: Adidas can declare itself the winner over arch-rival Nike in the upcoming FIFA World Cup even before the first match kicks off as it is kitting out the most teams.
However, the German sportswear brand, which is also the official sponsor of the tournament, expects only a limited financial impact, partly because this year's World Cup takes place in Russia, where the economy is in the doldrums.
"The World Cup in Russia does carry lower financial opportunities than the similar event four years ago in Brazil,"
Adidas Chief Executive Kasper Rorsted said earlier this month.
"At the same time, we're looking forward to it. It's going to be a fantastic way of bringing our brand to life globally," Rorsted added.
Since the last tournament in 2014, Adidas has grown sales rapidly in areas other than soccer, capitalising on booming demand for its retro basketball sneakers and springy Boost running shoes to outpace Nike, particularly in the U.S. market.
Nevertheless, soccer remains important for the image of the German brand, which has supplied the World Cup match ball since 1970 and has a deal to sponsor the event until 2030.
It also announced last week it will extend its partnership with the UEFA Champions League until 2021.
After Nike kitted out more teams for the first time in Brazil in 2014, Adidas has fought back, this year sponsoring 12 of the 32 participating teams, including strong contenders like Germany and Spain, along with hosts Russia.
Nike, which only got heavily involved in soccer when the World Cup was played in the United States in 1994, is supplying shirts for 10 countries, including Brazil, France, and England.
"The World Cup is such a powerful moment in sport, and we look forward to amplifying its energy," Nike Chief Executive Mark Parker said in March.

NO IRANIANS WEAR NIKE
While team deals are important for sales of soccer jerseys, more critical for sales of boots is the sponsorship of top players, particularly the likes of Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, who wears Nike, and Argentina's Lionel Messi, in Adidas.
Nike expects 60 percent of all the players heading to Russia will be wearing its boots, including almost half the German and Spanish team and three-quarters of the Russians, even though they will be wearing Adidas shirts.
An exception is Iran, which faces new sanctions after U.S. President Donald Trump pulled out of an international nuclear deal. Nike says none of the country's players are wearing its shoes, while Adidas is providing the team's jerseys.
German brand Puma is a distant third, sponsoring just four relatively lowly teams in the competition, compared with the eight it kitted out in 2014, dented by the failure of its top team Italy to qualify.
Still, Puma Chief Executive Bjorn Gulden says the World Cup has helped its order book for the second and third quarters.
Adidas reported soccer-related sales of 2.1 billion euros ($2.4 billion) in 2014, when it sold 14 million official match balls and 8 million jerseys, including 3 million for the winning German team.
Sales rose to 2.5 billion euros by 2016 but slipped as a proportion of total Adidas revenue to 13.5 percent from 14.5 percent in 2014. It has not disclosed figures since then.
Nike saw soccer sales fall a currency-adjusted 4 percent to $2 billion for its fiscal year ended May 31, 2017, accounting for less than 6 percent of group revenue.
The World Cup could add about 3 to 4 percentage points to Adidas group revenue growth in 2018, lower than previous tournaments due to the fact it is happening in Russia, according to Piral Dadhania, an analyst at RBC Capital Markets.
However, Dadhania noted much of the benefit occurs before the event as the jerseys have already been sold to retailers.
"Any incremental boost during or after the event relating to jersey sales depends on the extent to which specific teams progress through the competition," Dadhania said.

By Emma Thomasson
REUTERS

Woman held in Sudan for Nigerian diplomat's murder

2018-05-14T08:52:00.003-07:00

Abuja: A Sudanese woman of Nigerian origin has been arrested for killing a Nigerian diplomat in Khartoum and stealing his money, the foreign ministry in Abuja said Monday according to the AFP.

Habibu Almu, an immigration attache working in the Sudanese capital, was found dead at his home last week.

"It was established that the deceased was stabbed to death," Nigerian foreign ministry spokesman Tope Adeleye Elias-Fatile said in a statement.

"After committing the heinous crime, the suspect stole some of the deceased personal belongings including cash," the statement said, identifying her as Inas Khalid Maikano, a college student.
Last week Sudanese police said that the killing did not appears to be politically motivated.

Trump leans on Nigeria, Africa to support bid for 2026 World Cup

2018-05-01T08:54:00.000-07:00

US President Donald Trump lobbied publicly on Monday for Nigeria to support the North American bid to host the 2026 World Cup.

In a press conference with Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari in the White House Rose Garden, Trump appealed for support from the region for the joint bid submitted to FIFA by the United States, Canada and Mexico for the 2026 tournament, which is in competition with Morocco's hosting candidacy.

"I hope all African countries and countries throughout the world - that we also will be supporting you - and that they will, likewise, support us in our bid, along with Canada and Mexico, for the 2026 World Cup," Trump said.

"We will be watching very closely, and any help that they could give us in that bid, we would appreciate."

Last week, Trump seemed to warn US allies not to oppose the "STRONG bid" by the North American neighbours.

"It would be a shame if countries that we always support were to lobby against the U.S. bid. Why should we be supporting these countries when they don't support us (including at the United Nations)?" he tweeted.

The 2026 World Cup follows Qatar in 2022 and will be the first with 48 teams.

After the scandals which surrounded the voting for the World Cups in Russia in 2018 and Qatar in 2022, it will be the first World Cup to see the host elected by FIFA members at their congress, and no longer by the former executive committee.

The vote is planned for the FIFA congress on June 13 in Moscow, on the eve of the opening match of the World Cup.

DPA

Nigeria needs to move on without Buhari: Obasanjo

2018-01-23T06:55:00.000-08:00

Former Nigerian President Dr. Olusegun Obasanjo has advised President Muhammed Buhari not to seek reelection for the 2019 Presidential election in a blistering statement on Tuesday.

In a special press statement

titled " The Way out: A Clarion Call for Coalition for Nigerian Movement," Obasanjo said: "President Buhari needs a dignified and honourable dismount from the horse. He needs to have time to reflect, refurbish physically and recoup and after appropriate rest, once again, join the stock of Nigerian leaders whose experience, influence, wisdom and outreach can be deployed on the side line for the good of the country. His place in history is already assured. Without impaired health and strain of age, running the affairs of Nigeria is a 25/7 affair, not 24/7."

"I only appeal to brother Buhari to consider a deserved rest at this point in time and at this age. I continue to wish him robust health to enjoy his retirement from active public service. President Buhari does not necessarily need to heed my advice. But whether or not he heeds it, Nigeria needs to move on and move forward," OBJ added.

OBJ as he's popularly called recently bagged a PhD, admitted he knew Mr Buhari was weak in handling the economy, he went ahead and voted for him because at the time “it was a matter of ‘any option but Jonathan’” and because he thought Mr Buhari would appoint qualified Nigerians to help out in that area.

The two-time democratic President also berated Buhari for his poor political appointment is the economy, finance and foreign affairs. "I knew President Buhari before he became President and said that he is weak in the knowledge and understanding of the economy but I thought that he could make use of good Nigerians in that area that could help. Although, I know that you cannot give what you don’t have and that economy does not obey military order. You have to give it what it takes in the short-, medium- and long-term. Then, it would move. I know his weakness in understanding and playing in the foreign affairs sector and again, there are many Nigerians that could be used in that area as well. They have knowledge and experience that could be deployed for the good of Nigeria."

Providing a new map, Obasanjo hinted that Nigeria need a new direction which he termed " Coalition for Nigeria," having ruled out the two main political parties, PDP and APC, that they have no panacea to the country's malaise.

"We need a Coalition for Nigeria, CN. Such a Movement at this juncture needs not be a political party but one to which all well-meaning Nigerians can belong. That Movement must be a coalition for democracy, good governance, social and economic well-being and progress. Coalition to salvage and redeem our country. You can count me with such a Movement."

BELOW IS THE FULL STATEMENT

THE WAY OUT: A CLARION CALL FOR COALITION FOR NIGERIA MOVEMENT

Special Press Statement

By President Olusegun Obasanjo

Since we are still in the month of January, it is appropriate to wish all Nigerians Happy 2018. I am constrained to issue this special statement at this time considering the situation of the country. Some of you may be asking, “What has brought about this special occasion of Obasanjo issuing a Special Statement?” You will be right to ask such a question. But there is a Yoruba saying that ‘when lice abound in your clothes, your fingernails will never be dried of blood’. When I was in the village, to make sure that lice die, you put them between two fingernails and press hard to ensure they die and they always leave bloodstains on the fingernails. To ensure you do not have blood on your fingernails, you have to ensure that lice are not harboured anywhere within your vicinity.

The lice of poor performance in government – poverty, insecurity, poor economic management, nepotism, gross dereliction of duty, condonation of misdeed – if not outright encouragement of it, lack of progress and hope for the future, lack of national cohesion and poor management of internal political dynamics and widening inequality – are very much with us today. With such lice of general and specific poor performance and crying poverty with us, our fingers will not be dry of ‘blood’.

Four years ago when my PDP card was torn, I made it abundantly clear that I quit partisan politics for aye but my concern and interest in Nigeria, Africa and indeed in humanity would not wane. Ever since, I have adhered strictly to that position. Since that time, I have devoted quality time to the issue of zero hunger as contained in Goal No. 2 of the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN. We have set the target that Nigeria with the participating States in the Zero Hunger Forum should reach Zero Hunger goal by 2025 – five years earlier than the UN target date. I am involved in the issue of education in some States and generally in the issue of youth empowerment and employment. I am involved in all these domestically and altruistically to give hope and future to the seemingly hopeless and those in despair. I believe strongly that God has endowed Nigeria so adequately that no Nigerian should be either in want or in despair.

I believe in teamwork and collaborative efforts. At the international level, we have worked with other world leaders to domicile the apparatus for monitoring and encouraging socio-economic progress in Africa in our Presidential Library. The purpose of Africa Progress Group, which is the new name assumed by Africa Progress Panel (APP), is to point out where, when and what works need to be done for the progress of Africa separately and collectively by African leaders and their development partners. I have also gladly accepted the invitation of the UN Secretary-General to be a member of his eighteen-member High-Level Board of Advisers on Mediation. There are other assignments I take up in other fora for Africa and for the international community. For Africa to move forward, Nigeria must be one of the anchor countries, if not the leading anchor country. It means that Nigeria must be good at home to be good outside. No doubt, our situation in the last decade or so had shown that we are not good enough at home; hence we are invariably absent at the table that we should be abroad.

All these led me to take the unusual step of going against my own political Party, PDP, in the last general election to support the opposite side. I saw that action as the best option for Nigeria. As it has been revealed in the last three years or so, that decision and the subsequent collective decision of Nigerians to vote for a change was the right decision for the nation. For me, there was nothing personal, it was all in the best interest of Nigeria and, indeed, in the best interest of Africa and humanity at large. Even the horse rider then, with whom I maintain very cordial, happy and social relationship today has come to realise his mistakes and regretted it publicly and I admire his courage and forthrightness in this regard. He has a role to play on the side line for the good of Nigeria, Africa and humanity and I will see him as a partner in playing such a role nationally and internationally, but not as a horse rider in Nigeria again.

The situation that made Nigerians to vote massively to get my brother Jonathan off the horse is playing itself out again. First, I thought I knew the point where President Buhari is weak and I spoke and wrote about it even before Nigerians voted for him and I also did vote for him because at that time it was a matter of “any option but Jonathan” (aobj). But my letter to President Jonathan titled: “Before It Is Too Late” was meant for him to act before it was too late. He ignored it and it was too late for him and those who goaded him into ignoring the voice of caution. I know that praise-singers and hired attackers may be raised up against me for verbal or even physical attack but if I can withstand undeserved imprisonment and was ready to shed my blood by standing for Nigeria, I will consider no sacrifice too great to make for the good of Nigeria at any time. No human leader is expected to be personally strong or self-sufficient in all aspects of governance.

I knew President Buhari before he became President and said that he is weak in the knowledge and understanding of the economy but I thought that he could make use of good Nigerians in that area that could help. Although, I know that you cannot give what you don’t have and that economy does not obey military order. You have to give it what it takes in the short-, medium- and long-term. Then, it would move. I know his weakness in understanding and playing in the foreign affairs sector and again, there are many Nigerians that could be used in that area as well. They have knowledge and experience that could be deployed for the good of Nigeria. There were serious allegations of round-tripping against some inner caucus of the Presidency which would seem to have been condoned. I wonder if such actions do not amount to corruption and financial crime, then what is it? Culture of condonation and turning blind eye will cover up rather than clean up. And going to justice must be with clean hands.

I thought President Buhari would fight corruption and insurgency and he must be given some credit for his achievement so far in these two areas although it is not yet uhuru!

The herdsmen/crop farmers issue is being wittingly or unwittingly allowed to turn sour and messy. It is no credit to the Federal Government that the herdsmen rampage continues with careless abandon and without finding an effective solution to it. And it is a sad symptom of insensitivity and callousness that some Governors, a day after 73 victims were being buried in a mass grave in Benue State without condolence, were jubilantly endorsing President Buhari for a second term! The timing was most unfortunate. The issue of herdsmen/crop farmer’s dichotomy should not be left on the political platform of blame game; the Federal Government must take the lead in bringing about solution that protects life and properties of herdsmen and crop farmers alike and for them to live amicably in the same community.

But there are three other areas where President Buhari has come out more glaringly than most of us thought we knew about him. One is nepotic deployment bordering on clannishness and inability to bring discipline to bear on errant members of his nepotic court. This has grave consequences on performance of his government to the detriment of the nation. It would appear that national interest was being sacrificed on the altar of nepotic interest. What does one make of a case like that of Maina: collusion, condonation, ineptitude, incompetence, dereliction of responsibility or kinship and friendship on the part of those who should have taken visible and deterrent disciplinary action? How many similar cases are buried, ignored or covered up and not yet in the glare of the media and the public? The second is his poor understanding of the dynamics of internal politics. This has led to wittingly or unwittingly making the nation more divided and inequality has widened and become more pronounced. It also has effect on general national security. The third is passing the buck. For instance, blaming the Governor of the Central Bank for devaluation of the naira by 70% or so and blaming past governments for it is to say the least, not accepting one’s own responsibility. Let nobody deceive us, economy feeds on politics and because our politics is depressing, our economy is even more depressing today. If things were good, President Buhari would not need to come in. He was voted to fix things that were bad and not engage in the blame game. Our Constitution is very clear, one of the cardinal responsibilities of the President is the management of the economy of which the value of the naira forms an integral part. Kinship and friendship that place responsibility for governance in the hands of the unelected can only be deleterious to good government and to the nation.

President Buhari’s illness called for the sympathy, understanding, prayer and patience from every sane Nigerian. It is part of our culture. Most Nigerians prayed for him while he was away sick in London for over hundred days and he gave his Deputy sufficient leeway to carry on in his absence. We all thanked God for President Buhari for coming back reasonably hale and hearty and progressing well in his recovery. But whatever may be the state of President Buhari’s health today, he should neither over-push his luck nor over-tax the patience and tolerance of Nigerians for him, no matter what his self-serving, so-called advisers, who would claim that they love him more than God loves him and that without him, there would be no Nigeria say. President Buhari needs a dignified and honourable dismount from the horse. He needs to have time to reflect, refurbish physically and recoup and after appropriate rest, once again, join the stock of Nigerian leaders whose experience, influence, wisdom and outreach can be deployed on the side line for the good of the country. His place in history is already assured. Without impaired health and strain of age, running the affairs of Nigeria is a 25/7 affair, not 24/7.

I only appeal to brother Buhari to consider a deserved rest at this point in time and at this age. I continue to wish him robust health to enjoy his retirement from active public service. President Buhari does not necessarily need to heed my advice. But whether or not he heeds it, Nigeria needs to move on and move forward.

I have had occasion in the past to say that the two main political parties – APC and PDP – were wobbling. I must reiterate that nothing has happened to convince me otherwise. If anything, I am reinforced in my conviction. The recent show of PDP must give grave and great concern to lovers of Nigeria. To claim, as has been credited to the chief kingmaker of PDP, that for procuring the Supreme Court judgment for his faction of the Party, he must dictate the tune all the way and this is indeed fraught with danger. If neither APC nor PDP is a worthy horse to ride to lead Nigeria at this crucial and critical time, what then do we do? Remember Farooq Kperogi, an Associate Professor at the Kennesaw State University, Georgia, United States, calls it “a cruel Hobson’s choice; it’s like a choice between six and half a dozen, between evil and evil. Any selection or deflection would be a distinction without a difference.” We cannot just sit down lamenting and wringing our hands desperately and hopelessly.

I believe the situation we are in today is akin to what and where we were in at the beginning of this democratic dispensation in 1999. The nation was tottering. People became hopeless and saw no bright future in the horizon. It was all a dark cloud politically, economically and socially. The price of oil at that time was nine dollars per barrel and we had a debt overhang of about $35 billion. Most people were confused with lack of direction in the country. One of the factors that saved the situation was a near government of national unity that was put in place to navigate us through the dark cloud. We had almost all hands on deck. We used people at home and from the diaspora and we navigated through the dark cloud of those days. At that time, most people were hopelessly groping in the dark. They saw no choice, neither in the left nor in the right, and yet we were not bereft of people at home and from the diaspora that could come together to make Nigeria truly a land flowing with milk and honey. Where we are is a matter of choice but we can choose differently to make a necessary and desirable change, once again.

Wherever I go, I hear Nigerians complaining, murmuring in anguish and anger. But our anger should not be like the anger of the cripple. We can collectively save ourselves from the position we find ourselves. It will not come through self-pity, fruitless complaint or protest but through constructive and positive engagement and collective action for the good of our nation and ourselves and our children and their children. We need moral re-armament and engaging togetherness of people of like-mind and goodwill to come solidly together to lift Nigeria up. This is no time for trading blames or embarking on futile argument and neither should we accept untenable excuses for non-performance. Let us accept that the present administration has done what it can do to the limit of its ability, aptitude and understanding. Let the administration and its political party platform agree with the rest of us that what they have done and what they are capable of doing is not good enough for us. They have given as best as they have and as best as they can give. Nigeria deserves and urgently needs better than what they have given or what we know they are capable of giving. To ask them to give more will be unrealistic and will only sentence Nigeria to a prison term of four years if not destroy it beyond the possibility of an early recovery and substantial growth. Einstein made it clear to us that doing the same thing and expecting a different result is the height of folly. Already, Nigerians are committing suicide for the unbearable socio-economic situation they find themselves in. And yet Nigerians love life. We must not continue to reinforce failure and hope that all will be well. It is self-deceit and self-defeat and another aspect of folly.

What has emerged from the opposition has shown no better promise from their antecedents. As the leader of that Party for eight years as President of Nigeria, I can categorically say there is nothing to write home about in their new team. We have only one choice left to take us out of Egypt to the promised land. And that is the coalition of the concerned and the willing – ready for positive and drastic change, progress and involvement. Change that will give hope and future to all our youth and dignity and full participation to all our women. Our youth should be empowered to deploy their ability to learn, innovate and work energetically at ideas and concepts in which they can make their own original inputs. Youth must be part of the action today and not relegated to leadership of tomorrow which may never come. Change that will mean enhancement of living standard and progress for all. A situation where the elected will accountably govern and every Nigerian will have equal opportunity not based on kinship and friendship but based on free citizenship.

Democracy is sustained and measured not by leaders doing extra-ordinary things, (invariably, leaders fail to do ordinary things very well), but by citizens rising up to do ordinary things extra-ordinarily well. Our democracy, development and progress at this juncture require ordinary citizens of Nigeria to do the extra-ordinary things of changing the course and direction of our lackluster performance and development. If leadership fails, citizens must not fail and there lies the beauty and importance of democracy. We are challenged by the current situation; we must neither adopt spirit of cowardice nor timidity let alone impotence but must be sustained by courage, determination and commitment to say and do and to persist until we achieve upliftment for Nigeria. Nothing ventured, nothing gained and we believe that our venturing will not be in vain. God of Nigeria has endowed this country adequately and our non-performance cannot be blamed on God but on leadership. God, who has given us what we need and which is potentially there, will give us leadership enablement to actualize our potentiality.

The development and modernization of our country and society must be anchored and sustained on dynamic Nigerian culture, enduring values and an enchanting Nigerian dream. We must have abiding faith in our country and its role and place within the comity of nations. Today, Nigeria needs all hands on deck. All hands of men and women of goodwill must be on deck. We need all hands to move our country forward.

We need a Coalition for Nigeria, CN. Such a Movement at this juncture needs not be a political party but one to which all well-meaning Nigerians can belong. That Movement must be a coalition for democracy, good governance, social and economic well-being and progress. Coalition to salvage and redeem our country. You can count me with such a Movement.

Last time, we asked, prayed and worked for change and God granted our request. This time, we must ask, pray and work for change with unity, security and progress. And God will again grant us. Of course, nothing should stop such a Movement from satisfying conditions for fielding candidates for elections. But if at any stage the Movement wishes to metamorphose into candidate-sponsoring Movement for elections, I will bow out of the Movement because I will continue to maintain my non-partisan position. Coalition for Nigeria must have its headquarters in Abuja.

This Coalition for Nigeria will be a Movement that will drive Nigeria up and forward. It must have a pride of place for all Nigerians, particularly for our youth and our women. It is a coalition of hope for all Nigerians for speedy, quality and equal development, security, unity, prosperity and progress. It is a coalition to banish poverty, insecurity and despair. Our country must not be oblivious to concomitant danger around, outside and ahead. Coalition for Nigeria must be a Movement to break new ground in building a united country, a socially-cohesive and moderately prosperous society with equity, equality of opportunity, justice and a dynamic and progressive economy that is self-reliant and takes active part in global division of labour and international decision-making.

The Movement must work out the path of development and the trajectory of development in speed, quality and equality in the short- medium- and long-term for Nigeria on the basis of sustainability, stability, predictability, credibility, security, cooperation and prosperity with diminishing inequality. What is called for is love, commitment and interest in our country, not in self, friends and kinship alone but particularly love, compassion and interest in the poor, underprivileged and downtrodden. It is our human duty and responsibility so to do. Failure to do this will amount to a sin against God and a crime against humanity.

Some may ask, what does Obasanjo want again? Obasanjo has wanted nothing other than the best for Nigeria and Nigerians and he will continue to want nothing less. And if we have the best, we will be contented whether where we live is described as palaces or huts by others and we will always give thanks to God.

I, therefore, will gladly join such a Movement when one is established as Coalition for Nigeria, CN, taking Nigeria to the height God has created it to be. From now on, the Nigeria eagle must continue to soar and fly high. CN, as a Movement, will be new, green, transparent and must remain clean and always active, selflessly so. Members must be ready to make sacrifice for the nation and pay the price of being pioneers and good Nigerians for our country to play the God-assigned role for itself, for its neighbours, for its sub-region of West Africa, for its continent and for humanity in general. For me, the strength and sustainable success of CN will derive largely from the strong commitment of a population that is constantly mobilized to the rallying platform of the fact that going forward together is our best option for building a nation that will occupy its deserved place in the global community. May God continue to lead, guide and protect us. Amen.

Migrants sold into slavery in Libya tell of 'total hell'

2017-11-22T05:34:00.002-08:00

Survivors of slave auctions in Libya have described a "total hell" that they wouldn't wish on their "worst enemy" as global outrage grows over footage showing migrants being sold off in the war-torn country.

"We were slaves," said Moussa Sanogo, a migrant who flew back to Ivory Coast from Libya this week after surviving regular beatings and forced labour in the fields.

"For the Arabs (Libyan jailers), black-skinned men are nothing but animals -- animals were treated better," said Sanogo, who spent more than four months in Libya trying to get to Italy by boat.

The North African country has long been a major transit hub for migrants trying to reach Europe.

He was just one of those who returned home with stories similar to those aired last week by US TV network CNN, which showed an apparent slave auction where black men were presented to North African buyers as potential farmhands and sold off for as little as $400 (340 euros).

"It was total hell in Libya," said Maxime Ndong, one of 250 migrants flown back to Cameroon on Tuesday night.

"There is a trade in black people there. People who want slaves... come to buy them," he told AFP.

"If you resist, they shoot at you. There have been deaths," said Ndong, who spent eight months in Libya.

The Cameroonians flew back to Yaounde on Tuesday aboard a plane charted by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) as part of a project to return and reintegrate some 850 people.

Sanogo, 22, was one of about 600 Ivory Coast migrants that were returning from Libya with IOM's support. Around 150 people landed in the capital Abidjan on Monday with the rest to be brought home during the week.

Sanogo described Libya as an anarchic country preyed on by bandits where the forces of law and order were involved in human trafficking.

"At one point, we were caught by people who said they were police," he said.

"The police then sold me for 500 dinars (310 euros, $365) to a man who made me work in a tomato field for a month. You have to work."

Sanogo fled across the desert to Niger where he was imprisoned again before finally escaping to Tunisia.

Then a people smuggler promising a path to Europe convinced him to return to Libya.

"We were captured and locked in a small room with 60 other people," and were "not able to wash," he said.

"When the Arabs entered they wore masks due to the smell," he said, shaking his head at the memory.

"They are buying you. You're there, you have been arrested, you see they are judging your price like merchandise. They bought you and you're going to work... like a slave," he said.

"They hit you all the time -- especially if you're big like me -- until the blood flows, with sticks, metal, the butt of a gun.

"For food, you are given a piece of bread and a piece of cheese, that's all... I'm happy to be back," he said.

"I would not wish it on my enemy."

Another migrant, Seydou Sanogo from Abidjan, said: "You would have to see what we lived through to believe it".

But not everyone wanted to leave Libya. One woman with an 18-month-old baby said she did not want to return to Ivory Coast.

"We were waiting for the boat. We were almost there," said the woman, who did not give her name.

The slave auction footage has triggered an outcry across Africa, bringing to public consciousness a situation that has previously been condemned by many non-governmental groups and observers.

Music and football stars have expressed their outrage at the revelations, including Ivorian reggae singers Alpha Blondy and Tiken Jah Fakoly, as well as footballer Didier Drogba.

"It is a double indignation, a cry from the heart: I am shocked to see the children of Africa die... trying to find a better tomorrow," said A'Salfo, lead singer of the group Magic System.

"A humiliation for Africa."

The United Nations said the slavery auctions should be investigated as possible crimes against humanity, and the issue will be on agenda at an African Union-EU summit on November 29 to 30 in Abidjan.

AFP

German police bust Portuguese-Nigerian sham marriage ring

2017-09-12T11:17:00.002-07:00

BERLIN A fake marriage ring that paired Portuguese women with Nigerian men who paid thousands of euros for a chance to gain EU residency have been busted by German police on Tuesday.

According to AFP report, police arrested five suspects, including four women, as they carried out raids in more than 40 locations across the German capital, Berlin police and prosecutors said in a statement. Authorities also raided homes in nearby Potsdam, Frankfurt and the eastern city of Goerlitz.

Investigators believe the suspects recruited women in Portugal, while in Nigeria, the gang charged men up to 13,000 euros ($15,000) for the scheme, with part of the money going to the Portuguese "brides".

The ring would then falsify documents such as marriage certificates.

Armed with the fake marriage certificate, the pretend couples would meet briefly in Germany to present themselves to authorities and apply for a legal, EU residency permit for the "husband".

"So far we have established more than 70 cases where marriages were faked to obtain EU residency permits," the police statement said.

Officers seized hard drives, mobile phones and ID documents in the raids, as well as 300,000 euros in cash, according to DPA.

German police said they worked with Europol and their Portuguese counterparts to smash the ring, and that searches also took place in Portugal.

Donald Trump pledges $121 million in aid to Nigeria

2017-07-09T08:38:00.000-07:00

Nigeria will receive $121 million in aid to feed hungry people because of drought and conflict especially in northern Nigeria that suffers the world’s third highest level of chronic under nutrition among children.

Communities in northeastern Nigeria are facing the dual threats of hunger and the terrorist group Boko Haram. The zone has been identified by aid agencies as one of four conflict-torn parts of the world at risk of famine this year.

The United Nations Children’s Fund estimates that the number of children suffering from severe acute malnutrition will reach 450,000 this year in the states of Borno, Adamawa and Yobe.

Thanks to the U.S. President Donald Trump who on Saturday promised $639 million in aid to Somalia, South Sudan, Nigeria and Yemen. Over $191 million would go to Yemen, $199 million to South Sudan and almost $126 million for Somalia.

Trump's pledge came during a working session of the G20 summit of world leaders in Hamburg, providing a "godsend" to the United Nations' World Food Programme, the group's executive director, David Beasley said.

"We're facing the worst humanitarian crisis since World War Two," said Beasley, a Republican and former South Carolina governor who was nominated by Trump to head the U.N. agency fighting hunger worldwide.

The new funding brings to over $1.8 billion aid promised by the United States for fiscal year 2017 for the crises in the four countries, where the United Nations has estimated more than 30 million people need urgent food assistance.

"With this new assistance, the United States is providing additional emergency food and nutrition assistance, life-saving medical care, improved sanitation, emergency shelter and protection for those who have been affected by conflict," USAID said in a statement.

Nigeria to be third largest populatiton in the world by 2050

2017-06-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

United Nations: Nigeria will overtake the United States by 2050 to become the third most populous country in the world, according to the figures by the
UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs on Wednesday.

The world's current population of 7.6 billion will balloon to 9.8 billion in 2050, with India's numbers to surpass China's in just seven years.

"With roughly 83 million people being added to the world's population every year, the upward trend in population size is expected to continue, even assuming that fertility levels will continue to decline," the report's authors said.

At that rate, the global population will reach 8.6 billion in 2030, 9.8 billion in 2050 and 11.2 billion in 2100, it said.

The population of India, which currently ranks as the second most populous country with 1.3 billion inhabitants, will surpass China's 1.4 billion citizens by 2024.

But Nigeria is growing the most rapidly, and the populations in 26 African countries are likely to "at least double" by 2050, according to the report.

The number of persons aged 60 or above is expected to more than double by 2050 and more than triple by 2100.
The aging population is projected to rise from 962 million globally in 2017 to 2.1 billion in 2050 and 3.1 billion in 2100, said the report.

AFP

Nigerian man pleads guilty to taking part in global email scams

2017-06-21T07:29:00.003-07:00

NEW YORK: A Nigerian man on Tuesday pleaded guilty to taking part in email scams attempting to defraud thousands of victims around the world out of millions of dollars, U.S. prosecutors said.
David Chukwuneke Adindu, 29, entered his plea to two conspiracy counts before U.S. District Judge Paul Crotty in Manhattan, according to an announcement from Acting U.S. Attorney Joon Kim in Manhattan.

Prosecutors said Adindu took part in scams in which emails were sent impersonating executives or vendors of companies, directing employees of those companies to make large wire transfers. Such scams are known as "business email compromise."
Adindu, who was arrested at a Houston airport last year, is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 26. The more serious of the two counts carries a maximum sentence of 20 years, while the other carries a maximum sentence of 15 years.

Lawyers for Adindu could not immediately be reached for comment.

Prosecutors said in an indictment last year that Adindu, who during the period in question resided in both Guangzhou, China and Lagos, Nigeria, worked with others to carry out business email compromise scams from 2014 to 2016.

Prosecutors said the scammers' targets included an unnamed New York investment firm, where an employee received an email claiming in June 2015 to be from an investment adviser at another firm asking for a $25,200 wire transfer.

The employee later learned the email was not actually sent by that adviser, and as a result did not comply with a second wire transfer request for $75,100, according to the indictment.
The case is U.S. v. Adindu, U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York, No. 16-cr-00575.

REUTERS

Italian embassy Lagos worse-hit with fake documents -police

2017-06-19T05:40:00.001-07:00

The Italian Embassy Lagos is the worst hit with fake documents in Nigeria following a recent disclosure by the Police Special Fraud Unit on Sunday. According to the police spokesman, ASP Lawal Audu, an average of 50 Nigerian passports with fake documents is sent to the SFU monthly.

The police chief hinted that Canada was the target before now but attention had now shifted to the European nation's embassy in Lagos.

The Italian Embassy sent to SFU about 50 Nigerian Passports monthly with complaints of forged documents.

‘‘We have charged more than 15 persons to court for presenting fake document between January and May, 2017.

“Documents the applicants always forged include bank statements, health insurance certificates, invitation letters from Italy, letters of introduction and letter of employment from multinational companies.

“Italian Consulate normally checks all supporting document for any applicant. They are very meticulous in checking. “We have many passports with such complaints in large numbers.

“Once any embassy or high commission discovers irregularities in any application, they request the applicant to come to SFU for clearance; many never came to us.

‘‘After waiting for some time, we go out to look for such applicants.

“Many of the applicants used fake names and addresses. Even their mobile phone numbers are with fake names and addresses. Some phone numbers have baby’s names for registration,” Audu noted.