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Why I can’t afford to disappoint my people – Hon. Idimogu … the first Igbo man to be elected as Lagos State House of Assembly Member

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Why I can’t afford to disappoint my people – Hon. Idimogu … the first Igbo man to be elected as Lagos State House of Assembly Member

[dropcap]H[/dropcap]on (Sir) Jude Emeka Idimogu of Lagos State House of Assembly has said that he is fully aware of the expectations of the people of his constituency from his administration, assuring that he will continue to work round the clock to ensure that his constituency is transformed and residents can feel the impact positively.
In an exclusive interview he granted, Hon. Idimogu said residents expect nothing short of good governance from him and that being at the helm of affairs was a task he was prepared to take on headlong and deliver on the job.He said that simultaneous projects are not about timing but fulfilling electoral promises.
Excerpts:

Hon.(Sir) Jude Emeka Idimogu, member representing Oshodi/Isolo Constituency II

Can we meet you sir?
I am Hon.(Sir) Jude Emeka Idimogu. I am from Umuezela Abuke in Ihitte Ubuoma local government area, Imo State. A member in the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Oshodi/Isolo Constituency II. I was born on 23rd December, 1969.I am happily married to an Ogun State woman, Lady Roseline Enitab Idimogu(Nee Kuku) from ijebu-Ode since 1990. This marriage has Produced three children all born in lagos state.

Briefly tell us your background story, sir?
I started visiting Lagos from my secondary school days in 80s and started living in lagos 1989.I completed my primary education at community primary school Abueke in Ihitte Uboma LGA in Imo state,thereafter proceeded for my secondary school education at Boys secondary school Ekwerazu Ahiazu Mbaise,Imo state from 1980-1984,later completed my A-level at methodist boys high school lagos. Later, I proceeded to Yaba college of technology Yaba where I studied accounting from 1991 to 1998 and obtained my HND in Accounting and was also admitted into Ambrose Ali University Ekpoma from 2003-2007 where I obtained my BSc in Accounting. I qualified as a Chartered Accountant in May 2000. As a result of my quest for education, I later attended Lagos State University, Ojo main campus(LASU) from 2007-2009 where I obtained MBA in marketing. Professionally, I am a member of Chartered Institute of Accountants of Nigeria(ICAN).I am also a member of Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria(CITA). In terms of my working career, I have worked with NEPA,NIBD Trustees Ltd,Savannah Bank Plc,Intercity Bank Plc now Unity Bank Plc before venturing into private business. I am the Chairman/CEO of JPM Group of Companies which is made up of JPM Dollars Bureau De Change Ltd, JPM Consulting Ltd, JPM Oil & Gas Ltd,and Gods Heritage Integrated Ltd.Presently. I am the 1st Vice Chairman of Canal Community Development Authority at Ilamoshe Estate Oke-Afa Ejigbo for the past 5 years and the 1st Vice Chairman of Association of Bureau De Change Operators of Nigeria,(ABCON) South-West Zone.Religiously, I am a catholic faithful; a member of Knight of Saint Mulumba, Idimu sub council.I am also a member of CMO(Catholic Men Organization of Nigeria) and presently the Chairman of Local Organization Council(LOC) Bishop Martins Adewale Football Competition among all Catholic church in Lagos Archdiocese.

Sir, what inspired you to go into politics?
Well, I believe that every human being is a political animal. But what really inspired me the most is my love for service to humanity.I so much believe in giving back to the society no matter how painful it may seem to be.That is why even before I joined politics, I single-handedly graded two roads in my street for the people of the community. I am an extrovert and that is why as a Banker, I moved into marketing in order to meet people. I fully joined politics during former President, Goodluck Jonathan’s Second tenure bid in 2015 when I was invited by a friend to attend Peoples’ Democratic party meeting. During that period, a body called Ndigbo United Association had a platform where all the Igbo men and women aspiring for any political position in Lagos state can come; form a group and showcase their abilities. So with that platform, I started having interest in politics.

What were your challenges contesting for such position in another man’s land?
It was not easy at all.But with God, what people may see as impossible was possible. Initially, they refused to give me ticket to run for Lagos state House of Assembly primaries because of what I may called fear of unknown but with God and the support from my wife as a yoruba woman, I had an edge to scale through after much deliberations by the elders/leaders of the land.
Also, the aspirant I contested with was another challenge because he is a son of the soil and the son of a party leader. So, it was very challenging and tough as I did not have a godfather to push me through. But finally, it was a miracle.

Why did you defect to All progressive Congress (APC) after contesting and winning under Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP)?
I am someone who knows my onions and who has quest for development. I defected to All Progressive Congress in the State precisely on Thursday, February 16, 2017 during the plenary on the floor of the Assembly along with 5 other members of the opposition Peoples’ Democratic Party because of my passion to attract more developmental project to my constituency and my desire to make meaningful impact.”I can’t afford to disappoint my people”. This decision was unanimously endorsed by my kinsmen at the Igbo House, Ajao Estate on the 4th of March, 2017.This has in no small way contributed to my success because in 2 years of my parliamentary duties, I have undoubtedly surpassed the achievements of my predecessors in terms of legislative performance.

How do you feel as the only Igbo man in Lagos state House of Assembly?
Infact, I feel great, elated, and encouraged.I believe God has used me to make history in not only Lagos State but entire south-western region because this is the first time a non-indegene is elected into state House of Assembly throughout the South-Western region. Even though I was allowed to marry my heartthrob from the land and had lived in Lagos state for the past 30 years; I still believe this position I am today is made possible through the concerted effort of the elders of the land. “You know you can’t do it alone, you need elders around you; elders that will speak on your behalf to their associates and acquaintances. Such elders you come across by doing good and being hardworking. When they have seen your quality and your determination to really serve for the benefits of the people, you will definitely have it”. I must give kudos to them for their support. Yorubas are nice and happy people to associate and work with. That is why I make sure I don’t disappoint my people.This will also serve as an eye-opener to men and women who intend to aspire for any political position in any foreign land in the country. It will encourage and boost them to contest without fear.

Can you highlight some of your achievements so far?
Yes! immediately I was sworn in, I swung into action. I sponsored about 350 students in computer training in my constituency. There are presently about 9 buses plying the roads which I used to empower people in my constituency. I have always supported the less privileged financially. Even though I have not signed any bill, I have made immense contributions to issues on the floor of the house, oversight duties, sponsored motion (like the relocation of Mile 12 market), committee duties and most especially feasible projects and infrastructures attracted to the constituency in this little period which has transformed the land scape of the constituency.For instance, work will soon commence for the construction of a pedestrian bridge at Oshodi-Mile 2 expressway (by Toyota) for the safety of my people.

Have you experienced any intimidation by your colleagues?
No. I have not. Every Yoruba man or woman is very accommodating.They don’t discriminate. They welcome foreigners even though a son of the soil and a visitor cannot have equal regards. But as a legislator in a foreign land, I am not too enthusiastic or forward; but I have strong will in handling issues and decision making, I hold everyone in high esteem.

What can you say about Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode?
My governor is a great achiever,goal-getter, and a developer. Let me borrow the words of Chief Bola Tinubu to call him ” A WONDER BOY”. The Governor of Lagos State by my own assessment is the Governor General of Nigeria. I say so for a very good reason. It is not a question of age of the occupant of that office or his tenure. It is simply an attestation to the fact that the economy of Lagos is about the summation of the economies of thirty States in Nigeria. One will be deceiving himself not to recognize that fact. I will say that he has surpassed every imagination; he is a fantastic man. He is indeed taking Lagos state to another level. I give kudos to him.

Honourable, some people call you Mr Nigeria, how come that name?
(Laughs), I have always believed in my country. I have always known that Nigeria will get better one day. I believe that your own is your own; the earlier you make your country work, the better for you. As you make your bed so you will lie on it. So, when I was building my house in my community here in Lagos, my workers and I will always eat together everyday but before we eat, we must recite the National Anthem and Pledge. At a time, people from neighbourhood joined us. It got to a time that people will come across me on the road and call me MR NIGERIA. That is how the name came about.

By Grassroots Publishers

EFCC Re-Arrests Former Permanent Secretary Onubuogo

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EFCC Re-Arrests Former Permanent Secretary Onubuogo
Dr Clement Onubuogo Illoh with EFCC officer

[dropcap]A[/dropcap] former Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Labour, Clement Onubuogo ILLOH, was on Wednesday re-arrested at the Federal High Court car park, Lagos, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Onubuogo was alleged to have shunned EFCC’s invitation over an alleged diversion of N606 million SURE-P funds under his watch.

The accused had appeared before Justice Babs Kuewumi on a different charge filed by the commission.He was arraigned over alleged non-declaration of some of his hidden cash assets to which he had pleaded not guilty.According to the EFCC, the ex-Permanent Secretary failed to declare N97 million, 139,000 dollars and 10,000 pounds respectively found in three of his bank accounts.

Dr Clement Onubuogo Illoh

When the case came up on Wednesday, the accused was present in court but the EFCC’s counsel was absent.Onubuogo’s lawyer, Mr A. Dada, informed the court that Onubuogo was “very ill” and asked for an adjournment to enable him to get treatment.
In his response, the judge noted that he had adjourned several cases so that more time could be spent on the trial.

He, however, agreed to adjourn the case as no prosecution counsel was present.Shortly after the case was adjourned, EFCC’s lawyer, Mr Rotimi Oyedepo, walked into the courtroom.The defence counsel, who were already on their way out of the court, also returned to complain to the judge that the accused had been re-arrested. Dada faulted EFCC for arresting Onubuogo, whom he said, was already on court bail and denied that he shunned any invitation by the commission.

Responding, Oyedepo noted that no law forbids anyone undergoing trial from being re-arrested for another criminal matter.  He added: “The money belongs to all of us and we should all support efforts toward recovering it.”In his ruling, the judge said having adjourned the case, there was nothing he could do about the re-arrest. Onubuogo had on Sept. 8, objected to EFCC’s application seeking the final forfeiture of N664 million and 138,000 dollars allegedly recovered from him.

The court presided over by Justice Abdulazeez Anka had ordered an interim forfeiture of the money following a motion ex-parte by the EFCC on Aug. 15. Anka, who ordered the interim forfeiture, also authorised the EFCC to seize a property described as “Clement Illoh’s Mansion” at Ikom Quarters, Issala-Azegba in Delta and a hotel on 19, Madue Nwafor St., off Achala Ibuzo Road, Asaba, Delta.

Onubuogo’s lawyer, Mr T. S. Awhana, while acknowledging the receipt of the motion for final forfeiture, said he had already filed a counter-affidavit against it.The lawyer added that he filed a notice of preliminary objection challenging the court’s jurisdiction to make the interim order.

The court had directed the EFCC to notify the Permanent Secretary, in whose possession the property were found, to appear before the court and show cause within 14 days why the property should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government. The judge also directed the publication of the interim orders in any national newspaper for any interested person to appear before the judge to show cause within 14 days why the order should not be made permanent.

An EFCC investigator, Huleji Abraham Tukura, said Onubuogo converted the funds from the N10 billion released by the Federal Government during his supervision of the Subsidy Reinvestment Programme (SURE-P)

Justice Kuewumi adjourned the case until Nov. 30 for trial.

Police arrest two Lagos masqueraders for robbery

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Police arrest two Lagos masqueraders for robbery

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he police in Lagos State have arrested two masqueraders in their costumes, as well as their handlers, in Elere, in the Agege area of the state.The Acting Commissioner of Police in the state, Edgal Imohimi, in a video that trended on the Internet on Wednesday, accused the masqueraders and their handlers of harassing and robbing the residents of the area. He said the residents made distress calls to the police that some hoodlums were harassing and dispossessing some of them of their valuables, prompting him to call the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Elere division to effect the arrest of the masqueraders and others involves in the alleged crime.
Edgal, in the video, said the masqueraders and others were arrested about 4pm on Tuesday.

He said, “When I received the complaint against the masqueraders, I called the DPO and some decoy teams were sent to the area and the masquerades and their handlers were all arrested.“They were only using the masqueraders as a trick to rob some residents of the area. The masqueraders don’t have the permission of any traditional ruler in the community to come out. There is no festival that they are celebrating. Traditionally, masqueraders don’t just come out without a purpose. “We have warned repeatedly that people without purpose parading themselves as masqueraders on the streets of Lagos will no longer be tolerated.”Edgal warned that any masquerader who came out without permission would be arrested.

“These ones will be de-robed and charged to court,” he added.Some residents told our correspondents on the telephone that the masqueraders and some hoodlums were indeed harassing people, which prompted the distress calls to the police.

They said the masquerades were later taken away by the police in a Toyota Hilux.They stated that some of their handled were also rounded up and whisked away.The state Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Olarinde Famous-Cole, while commenting on the video, said the masquerades were robbing motorists and causing breach of the peace.He said they would be charged to court after investigation.

He said, “The CP got a distress call that some hoodlums were fighting and almost caused the breakdown of law and order. Operatives of the command were mobilised to the scene, where we saw the masquerades intimidating and robbing passersby and motorists.“They engaged the police in a fight and we had to call for reinforcement.“All of them were picked up. They are about seven in number, including their leader.”

Man Escapes Death From 23ft Python, Gets Horrible Injuries

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Man Escapes Death From 23ft Python, Gets Horrible Injuries

[dropcap]R[/dropcap]obert Nababn came across the beast as he travelled home from work on his moped.
The snake was blocking the road in Indragiri Hulu Regency of Riau Province in Sumatra, Indonesia.
The 37-year-old security guard decided to step in and move the reptile, but he was forced into a wrestling match with the python in the middle of the road.
Pedestrians looked on in horror as the colossal snake bit his arm and attempted to smother him in his coils.
But miraculously Nababn managed to win the combat and killed the snake. Speaking from his hospital bed, he said: “I tried to catch it. It bit my arm, and we wrestled for a while.” He suffered deep lacerations to his left arm and hand. Pictures show the creature’s carcass strung up in the village as three children play on its tail.
Nearby adults are clearly dwarfed by the seven metre beast. Indonesian media reported a tussle with a similarly large snake in March had ended a lot worse for a West Sulawesi man, who was found dead in the reptile’s stomach.
Just last month a Hampshire man was found dead next to his pet python.
Dan Brandon, an experienced snake handler, was found with “serious injuries” at his home, police said.

Gov.Obiano flags off re-election campaign

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Gov.Obiano flags off re-election campaign
Gov. Obiano

•My team and I have delivered excellence –Gov

The Anambra State capital stood still yesterday as Governor Willie Obiano, the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) flagged off his re-election campaign at the Alex Ekwueme Square . He told crowd that the state would see more development in his second term and promised that he would build an airport. He urged voters to carry out the wish of the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu by voting for APGA.

Obiano said he brought development to the state by ensuring that every community got N20 million to carry out any project of their choice and promised that the funds would be increased to N50 million next year.

He said: “We gave each community N20 million for any project of their choice and any community that uses up the funds should come for another N20 million. Next year, we will begin to give N50 million to different communities.

“What we are going to do in the next four years in agriculture will be greater that what we have already done. Now, we are more than self sufficient in rice production and we are progressing in the production of maize, cassava and yam. Next year, we are going to provide funds to farmers to start breeding our own cattle, goat, chicken and other livestock.

“The election is just 48 days from today and we have only two choices; to consolidate on the rapid growth we have made so far, or take a step backwards into dark days of lawlessness and shame. All over the world, excellence does not happen by chance; it is usually a direct result of clear vision, smart decisions and bold resolve to rise above average. We plead that we be given another chance to turn excellence into a habit. I represent dignity in labour and reward for hard work

“I welcome those who will contest the election with me but I must remind them all that this state belongs to all of us. Elections will come and go but Anambra will remain. We must refuse every temptation to make this election a do or die affair and turn our dear state into a war zone. We have the responsibility to preserve the peace that we have worked very hard to bring to Anambra state today; I reach out my hands in fellowship to you and urge you to help keep Anambra state safe and peaceful.”
Some of the personalities who were present were former Central Bank Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo ; the Director General of the Campaign Organization, Chief Victor Umeh; former deputy governor of the state, Virgy Etiaba; former governorship candidate in Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti; former minister of Information, Labramn Maku and Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Rita Maduagwu.

Governor Okowa says Buhari has done well keeping Nigeria united

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– Governor Ifeanyi Okowa commended President Buhari for keeping Nigeria united

– Okowa said the Independence Day celebration affords Nigerians the opportunity to tackle new challenges

– The governor thanked Nigerians for their constructive criticisms

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta state has praised President Muhammadu Buhari for keeping Nigeria united and doing his best to ensure the development of the country. Okowa, a governor on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said this at a thanksgiving ceremony to mark Nigeria’s 57th Independence anniversary. The media office said the ceremony was attended by the wife of the governor, Edith Okowa; the deputy governor, Kingsley Otuaro; two senators, James Manager and Peter Nwaboshi; Amaechi Mrakpor and Victor Nwakolo of the House of Representatives among others. “The pride of belonging to an independent country imposes a huge responsibility on us, and we, particularly the elites, have extra responsibility to dedicate our services and lives to the progress of the nation.

Gov. Okowa

“Today, we are gathered to celebrate this great national event, the 57th independence anniversary of our dear country, it was a product of sustained struggle by the founding fathers of this great country and it is a thing of joy that our president, Muhammadu Buhari, is doing a lot to keep the country as one indivisible and progressive nation that can take its pride of place among comity of nations. “This celebration affords us the opportunity to make a critical analysis of our progress so far and to reinvigorate us to tackle new and unfolding challenges by drawing lessons from both our strengths and weaknesses. “We need to rededicate ourselves to the service of this great nation,” the statement said. The governor added: “I urge you to remain resilient; we should not be consumed by our petty differences; rather, we should be united by our common humanity, because we are stronger together, no part of the state is more special than the other, together, we can make progress with our collective efforts and work towards the Delta state where we should all be proud to belong.

“Your incisive criticisms and counsel have helped to stabilise the polity and stay the hands of those who would have either abused or exploited the unfettered freedom that democracy affords citizens of the country

Nigeria @ 57: We are one United Nigeria – Dr Dan Awana

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Nigeria @ 57: We are one United Nigeria – Dr Dan Awana
Dr Dan Awana

[dropcap]A[/dropcap]s Nigeria marks her 57th Independence Anniversary, the National President of Grassroots Newspapers Publishers Network(GNPN)Dr Dan Awana has called on all citizens to use the occasion as a period of sober reflections on the bonds of brotherhood, which all Nigerians share, and the need to eschew rancour and bigotry in the national space.

The National President of Grassroots Newspapers Publishers Network(GNPN)Dr Dan Awana, made the call in a goodwill message to Nigerians, urging citizens to unite in mutual love and respect against centrifugal forces which threaten the nation’s continued existence.he also urged Nigerians irrespective of creed and tribe to continue to work for the peace, unity and stability of the country.He also urged leaders – political, traditional, religious and business – to close ranks and implement strategies that would further develop the country as well as increase standard of living.
The Dr Dan Awana said: “Our togetherness, abundant resources and diversity are our greatest asset. Therefore let us refrain from tendencies that tend to pull us apart.”

Dr Dan Awana also urged Nigerians to use the occasion as a platform for engaging constructively with one another with a view to sufficiently addressing the concerns of all sections of the country, adding that if Nigerians talk more with each other, they would understand each other better and minimize socio-political and ethnic conflicts.
Dr Dan Awana reiterated the Agency’s earlier call for Nigerians to shun hate and divisive speeches and rather embrace the practice of celebrating the good in the other person as this would de-emphasize sectionalism and engender mutual acceptance among Nigerians.
While felicitating with Nigerians as they celebrate the national day, he also urged them to pray for the nation to overcome its present challenges and look forward to many more years of productive nationhood.

rs of productive nationhood.

Best Secondary Schools in Nigeria Revealed By WAEC

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Best Secondary Schools in Nigeria Revealed By WAEC
1. Kings’ College, Lagos

2. Atlantic Hall, Poka-Epe, Lagos

3. Loyola Jesuit College, Gidan Mangoro, Karu-Karshi Road, Abuja

4. Grange Schools, Ikeja, Lagos Sate

5. Christ The King College, Onitsha

6. Vivian Fowler Memorial College, Chief T. A. Doherty Layout, Oregun, Ikeja in Lagos

7. Day Waterman College, Ikoyi, Lagos

8. LEKKI BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Victoria Arobieke Street, off Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos. Lekki British International School

9.Lumen Christi International High School, Uromi, Edo State

10. Corona Secondary School, Agbara, Ogun State

11. Olashore International High School, Iloko Ijesha, Oshun State

12. St Gregory’s College, Ikoyi, Lagos

13. Avicenna School, Lagos

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14. BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL Landbridge Avenue, Oniru Private Estate, Victoria Island, Lagos State

15. GREENSPRINGS SCHOOL, Lagos 32, Olatunde Ayoola Avenue, Anthony, Lagos

16. The Capital Science Academy, Abuja

17. Nigerian-Turkish International Academy, Abuja

18. Louisville Girl’s High School, Ijebu-Itele, Ogun State.

19. Premiere Academy, Lugbe, Abuja

20. St Francis Catholic Secondary School, 107, Liasu Road, Idimu. P. O. Box 91, Oshodi, Lagos State, Nigeria.

21. CHRISLAND COLLEGE Ladipo Oluwole Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos.

22. Regina Pacis College, Abuja

23. DOWEN COLLEGE Regency Town, Lekki, Lagos.

24. Brookstone School secondary, International Airport Road, Igwuruta, Rivers State

25. Bethel Demonstration Schools, 3 ,Asamah Avenue, Effurun, Warri Central, Delta State

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26. Saint Michael’s International School, Dadin Kowa Road, Kontagora, Niger State

27. Hillcrest School Jos, 13 Old Bukuru Road, Plateau State

28. Chrisland College, 72 ,Old Ejigbo Road, Idimu Egbeda, Alimosho, Lagos State

29. Abuja Capital International College, 352/353 Road, FHA Gwarinpa 11 Estate, Gwarinpa, Abuja

30. Charles Dale Memorial International School, 12 Army Range Road, Igwuruta-Eneka, Rivers State

31. Thomas Adewumi International College, Adewumi Drive, Oko P.M. B. 1050, Omu-Aran, Kwara State, Nigeria.

32. Lumen Christi International High School, Arue – Uromi, Benin City, Edo State

33. Adesoye College, Igosun Road, PB 4700,Offa, Kwara State

34. Holy Rosary International School, University Junction, Zone 6, Wuse, Abuja

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35. CITADEL INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE, Arigidi Road Ikare Akoko, Ondo State,

36. Stage One International School, 4Th Avenue, 403 Road, PW, Kubwa, Abuja

Queen’s College, Yaba, Lagos

Capville School, House 58/60 4Th Avenue, Gwarinpa Estate, Abuja

37. Angelwings Comprehensive College, Phase 1, Site 1, Pw (Maroko) Kubwa, Abuja

38. Air Force Comprehensive School, Iyana-Offa , Ibadan, Oyo State

39. Ifako International Secondary School, 99/101 ,Iju Road, Agege, Lagos.

No Rest Yet For Lukaku, Mourinho Says

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No Rest Yet For Lukaku, Mourinho Says
Romelu Lukaku

[dropcap]R[/dropcap]omelu Lukaku has started all of Manchester United’s games in the Premier League and Champions League, but the Belgian striker cannot expect a break just yet, manager Jose Mourinho has said.
Lukaku has hit the ground running since signing from Everton in the off-season with six league goals in as many games.
He has also netted three times in European competitions as United have barely missed the injured Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Mourinho, who hailed Lukaku’s development since last working with the player during their time at Chelsea, said he must continue leading United’s line until Ibrahimovic’s return.“Without Zlatan, we cannot rotate the striker, especially because Marcus Rashford is playing also in other positions,” Mourinho told the club’s website (www.manutd.com).“So, until the moment we have Zlatan, we cannot think about giving rest to our number nine, the same way we give (rest) in other positions. We cannot do that.”
Ibrahimovic scored 28 goals in 46 appearances for the club last season, but injured his knee ligament in the 2-1 Europa League win over Anderlecht in May.
The 35-year-old signed a one-year contract in the close season after surgery, but is not expected to return before the end of the year
The Portuguese manager said Lukaku had taken his opportunities well.
“I don’t want to speak about this progress. If I do that, it looks like we did something extraordinary in three months that he doesn’t have in the remaining years of his career,” said Mourinho.
“I don’t think it’s fair. It’s just a global evolution; I think every step in his career, he got it, grabbed it with both hands.
“It was always his dream to come to this level and since he’s arrived, I don’t think he thinks another thing other than success.”
The manager said Lukaku was coping well with the pressure of playing for the 20-times league champions.
United, who are on 19 points from seven games on the back of Lukaku’s fine finishing, after thrashing Crystal Palace 4-0 yesterday.

Presidency Lists 57 Achievements Of Buhari Administration

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Presidency Lists 57 Achievements Of Buhari Administration

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Presidency on Saturday released what it termed the 57 achievements of the Buhari-led administration.
The release of the list of achievements coincides with the celebration of the country’s 57th independence anniversary.
President Muhammadu Buhari came into office on May 29, 2015.
The list, from an email address in the office of the Vice President, Prof. Femi Osinbajo, was, however, unsigned.
The release stated:
57 ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE BUHARI-LED ADMINISTRATION

SECURITY & RELATED MATTERS
1. Release of 106 Chibok girls, as well as over 16,000 persons in Boko Haram captivity.
2. Tackling insurgency, decimation of Boko Haram in the North East.
3. Recovering 14 local governments and territories previously under Boko Haram control in the North East, rebuilding lives of citizens there; about one million displaced persons in the NE have returned to their communities in two years of this administration.
4. Curbing the incidence of kidnap across the country. (Arrest of kidnap kingpins and dismantling of kidnap cells across the country)
5. Restoring morale of the Nigerian military; re-organizing and better equipping the Nigerian Armed Forces.
6. Purchase of 12 Super-Tucano aircrafts worth $600 million to aid the Nigerian military’s current operations in the North East.
7. Ensuring continued peace in the Niger Delta through consistent funding of the FG amnesty programme for ex-militants.
8. Introduction of an improved mechanism for distribution of aid to IDPs in the North East through the establishment of the Special Intervention Programme of the Federal Government. (Door-to-door strategy)

ECONOMY
9. Implementing the National Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) to aid economic recovery, taking the country out of her worst recession in 29 years, despite fall in oil prices.
10. N1.2 trillion expended on capital/infrastructure projects nationwide, a milestone in the nation’s history.
11. Effective implementation of the Treasury Single Account, and increasing government revenue by over N3 trillion as well as entrenching transparency and accountability.
12. Implementation of the Bank Verification Number (BVN), thus tackling corruption by plugging loopholes for siphoning of public fund and tracking of illicit funds through multiple accounts.
13. Ease of doing business: the Federal Government signed into law two bills from the National Assembly (Acts are the Secured Transactions in Movable Assets Act, 2017 (otherwise known as Collateral Registry Act) and the Credit Reporting Act, 2017) which has facilitated access to more affordable credit for Nigerians, fast tracked budget submissions and promotes Made-in-Nigeria products.
14. Establishment of the Presidential Quarterly Business Forum to enhance interaction and private sector participation in the development of the economy.
15. Institutionalizing E-governance setting the foundation for the creation of a truly digital economy.
16. Creation of opportunities for youths to leverage innovation in technology through the introduction of the Aso Villa Demo Day (AVDD) through which over N700 million has been disbursed to young entrepreneurs.
17. The revitalization of the Made-in-Nigeria campaign. (Emphasis on consumption of local products gain grounds)
18. Implementing reforms in the civil service which has led to the elimination of over 30,000 ghost workers, thereby saving the country billions of naira monthly.
19. Massive investments in agriculture, e.g, Anchors Borrowers Programme to improve local produce, improving fertiliser distribution and access across states through the Presidential Fertilizer Initiative.
20. Reduction in rice imports as a result of government’s policies that has encouraged massive rice production across Nigeria.
21. Improving transport infrastructure (rail and road); construction work ongoing on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, renovation of Abuja International Airport runway, completion of Abuja – Kaduna Railway among others.
22. Social Investment Programmes (SIP): N-Power Volunteer Scheme creating jobs for over 200,000 (and still counting) unemployed graduates in all the 36 states and the FCT.
23. SIP: Ongoing Government Enterprise and Empowerment (GEEP) Scheme; commenced in November 2016 in collaboration with the Bank of Industry, where soft loans ranging from N10, 000 to N100, 000 have been given to over 189,000 market women and traders across different states.
24. SIP: Home Grown School Feeding Programme, where almost three million schoolchildren have been fed, while tens of thousands of cooks have been engaged in their respective states.
25. SIP: Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) scheme, under which about 25,000 less privileged Nigerians so far are now being funded with the monthly N5,000 stipend in 9 pilot States (Bauchi, Borno, Cross Rivers, Ekiti, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, Osun and Oyo). More beneficiaries are expected to be added in more states.
26. The establishment of MSMEs Clinics, a small Business support programme to support entrepreneurs and small businesses in different states.
27. Establishment of One-Stop-Shops to support policies on Ease of Doing Business.
28. The take-off of the 2nd Niger Bridge.
29. Phasing out subsidy for petroleum products, elimination of fuel scarcity and queues in petrol stations.
30. Implementation of the FG Niger Delta new vision, a comprehensive road map to improve livelihood and social infrastructure.
31. Improved power generation nationwide adding $500million to Nigeria’s sovereign wealth fund and about $87million to its excess crude account.
32. The creation of the N30billion Solid Minerals Development Fund.
33. Encouraging the patronage of local contents and increasing export in agriculture.
34. Signing of Executive Order 001 which is the promotion of transparency and efficiency in the business environment – to ensure that public servants offer prompt service in a predictable and transparent manner, and sanction undue delays.
35. Signing of Executive Order 002 which is on prompt submission of annual budgetary estimates by all statutory and non-statutory agencies of the Federal Government including incorporated companies wholly owned by FG.
36. Bailout of cash crunch states; about N689 billion to 27 states of the federation to pay salaries in 2015.
37. Complete refund of Paris loan deductions to states (unprecedented).
38. Implementing the 2011 UNEP report for the ongoing Ogoni clean-up process after decades of oil spills and pollution.
39. Modification of the tax system so that it is more efficient.
40. Reforms in the airports (reconstruction of the Abuja airport runway and ongoing work at the Lagos airport).
41. Reforms at the nation’s seaports (Issues with cargo clearance at the ports addressed)
42. Improved duration (under 48 hours) for visa approval especially for investors.
43. Resuscitation of the nation’s refineries which are now working at 50 percent capacity for the first time in over a decade.
44. Eleven of the dead 33 fertilizer plants have been resuscitated while four others are to be revived shortly and this has profound impact on the ongoing revolution in the agricultural sector.
45. For the first time in more than 45 years, the Mambila Power Plant is set to take off with the allocation of $5.6billion for its realization and an expected 3,050 MW output upon completion.
46. Increasing external reserves to a 13 month high of $33 billion from $29.13 billion which has surpassed the ERGPs target of $30.56 billion despite global low oil prices and production challenges.
47. Cancellation of the Joint Venture cash calls with oil multinational companies operating in Nigeria (For the first time in the history of the industry) which has led to savings of billions of dollars lost to fictitious contract payments.
48. Release of N2 billion take off grant for the Maritime University as part of measures to address agitations in the Niger Delta region.
49. The new development bank of Nigeria (DBN) is finally taking off with initial funding of $1.3billion (provided by the World Bank, German Development Bank, African Development Bank, Agence Francaise De Development) to provide medium and long term loans to MSMEs.

ANTI – GRAFT WAR
50. Improving Nigeria’s international image and regional cooperation with neighbouring countries in fighting insurgency.
51. Anti-corruption war: Prosecuting alleged corrupt public officers and recovering billions of naira of stolen public funds; the successful establishment of the whistle-blower policy.
52. Signing of Executive Order 004 – Voluntary Income Asset Declaration Scheme (VAIDS). This aims to increase tax awareness and compliance, and reduce incidence of tax evasion.
53. Signing of agreements with a number of nations to provide Automatic Exchange of Information.
54. Signing of the Extradition Treaty between Nigeria and United Arab Emirates (UAE) toward strengthening Nigeria’s anti-corruption campaign.
55. Establishment of PACAC – a think-tank that has provided leadership, direction and also built capacity of personnel in the fight against corruption.

OTHERS
56. Eradication of polio disease in the country.
57. The introduction of the One Primary Health Centre per ward programme of the Federal Government.

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