Adebayor Released By Club On Compassionate Leave Following Series Of FB posts

Following his disturbing and emotional Facebook posts where he revealed a lot of family drama, footballer Emmanuel Adebayor has been granted compassionate leave by his football club, Tottenham Hotspur, for a second time this season to return to Togo to sort out all his family issues.

Photo: Ambode Visits Aregbesola in Abuja

Lagos state governor-elect, Akinwunmi Ambode paid a courtesy visit to Osun state Governor, Rauf Aregbesola in Abuja yesterday May 20th.

NLC Threatens To Shut Down NIPOST Offices Nationwide

The president of The  Nigeria Labour Congress Mr. Ayuba Wabba and the employees of The National Union of Post and Telecommunication on Wednesday shut down the operations of the Nigerian Postal Services in Abuja to protest an alleged decision of the management (of NIPOST) to compel Level 07 members of staff, numbering over 4,000, to join the Senior Staff Association of Communications, Transport and Corporations, against their wish

Wabba said that the NIPOST management wrote the Accountant General’s Office to send check-off dues deducted from Level 07 officials of the organisation who have been in NUPTE for over 30 years to the SSACTAC.
He said the NIPOST management violated the rights of workers to belong to unions of their choice.
The NLC President also denied a claim by SSACTAC that the matter was before the court and that a prevailing court order had been issued to restrain the NLC from further action.

He said: “Section 40 of our Constitution says there is freedom of association. These workers have been members of NUPTE for over 30 years. Overnight, the management transferred them to SSACTAC. Is that law? Freedom of association means workers should decide which union they want to belong; it is not at the whim and caprices of the management.
“The management wrote a letter to the Office of the Accountant General, ceding those members to SSACTAC. They have belonged to NUPTE for over 30 years. These are of our grievances.
“ILO Convention says the workers have a right to the freedom of association. They belong to a union; you must seek their consent. The workers here are protesting because they have ceded them to another union so as to undermine their interest.
“Well, we have not been served. I have not seen any court injunction. That is why we are here. We are respecters of the law. Once we are served and put on notice, we would abide by the law. Nobody told us about any court order.
“Over 4,000 workers were ceded to another union. They belong to NUPTE before now. That is the reason for this picketing.”
The President of SSACTAC told journalists that the affected NUPTE members were members of SSACTAC who were on loan to NUPTE to beef up its finances.

National Assembly Members Move out of the Assembly Complex

Ahead of the May 29th inauguration of a new administration, some lawmakers have started moving out their personal effects from their offices within the National Assembly complex. Pictures show some of their assistants helping them move.

47th Ordinary Session, ECOWAS Speech by President Jonathan

Pres. Jonathan pictured with President Gnassingbe & President Mahama at 47th ECOWAS Summit, Accra, today May 19. President Macky Sall of Senegal is the new ECOWAS Chairman, he takes over from President Mahama of Ghana.          B Your Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama,
President of the Republic of Ghana, and Chairman of the
Authority of Heads of State and Government;
Your Excellencies, Brother Heads of State and Government;
Your Excellency, the President of the ECOWAS Commission;
Honourable Ministers;
ECOWAS Commissioners
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen;

Mr. Chairman,

      I must start this brief remarkby expressing my profound appreciation to you, the Government and People of Ghana for the warm reception accorded me and my delegation since our arrival here in Accra.  The traditionally warm hospitality that has been extended, inspires admiration of the brotherly people of Ghana.  It alsocertainly underscores the committed, forthright and exemplary leadership that you have personally offered our sub-region since assuming the Chairmanship of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.

Game of Thrones comes to Nigeria

Game of Thrones, the global phenomenon that has become arguably the biggest show on TV comes to Nigeria for the first time, exclusively on DStv. From Monday 18th May to Friday 19th June at 10pm daily, DStv will broadcast every episode from all five seasons in crystal clear HD.

That means fans and newcomers alike can get to experience all the twists, turns and heartbreak that has made the show so popular!


Watch 2 episodes back to back on Mnet Edge Chanel 113, the home of HBO in Africa. Plus, if you own the DStvExplora Decoder, you can programme it to record every episode for later viewing at your convenience!

Also log on to www.dstv.com for more information, and ensure that you activate parental control to restrict viewing as this series is not for persons under the age of 18.

Jay Z slams Google, YouTube, Spotify, others for criticizing Tidal

While performing at a private show at Terminal 5 in New York for Tidal subscribers, Jay Z launched into a blistering attack against those he said are criticizing his new streaming service, Tidal. He lashed out at Google, Youtube, Spotify and a host of others.
He claimed he was being depicted as 'the bad guy' because he's going against the grain, before turning on Google and YouTube for underpaying artists, claiming they 'pay you a tenth of what you supposed to get'. 'You know n***as die for equal pay right?  You know when I work I ain't your slave right?' he rapped.


He also included Beat's co-founder Jimmy Iovine in that list, who was previously accused of trying to lure high profile artists away from Tidal.

Ali Baba's Funny Comment on Adams Oshiomhole & His Bride's Wedding Kiss

This is the wedding everyone is talking about in Nigeria.

Egyptian Court Sentences Ousted President Morsi To Death

CAIRO — An Egyptian court on Saturday sentenced to death the deposed president, Mohamed Morsi of the Muslim Brotherhood, along with more than 100 others, for fleeing prison during the 2011 revolt against President Hosni Mubarak.

Mr. Morsi’s conviction is the latest sign of the undoing of the uprising that overthrew Mr. Mubarak. Mr. Morsi, who was Egypt’s first freely elected leader, now faces the death penalty for escaping extralegal detention — a form of detention that many Egyptians hoped would be eliminated by the revolution.

If carried out, the sentence could make Mr. Morsi a martyr to millions of Islamists in Egypt and around the world. In a statement about the sentencing, Amr Darrag, a Muslim Brotherhood leader who was a cabinet minister under Mr. Morsi, said it was “one of the darkest days of Egyptian history” and a symbol “of the dark shadow of authoritarianism that is now cast back over Egypt.”

Judge Shaaban el-Shami issued the ruling in a courtroom in a converted auditorium on the grounds of a police academy on the outskirts of Cairo. Mr. Morsi, wearing a blue prison uniform, stood inside a metal and glass cage built in the courtroom. Some of his co-defendants, including other senior Brotherhood leaders, also appeared in the cage.

Adams Oshiomhole's Daughter on why she missed his wedding

Winifred Oshiomhole is governor Oshimhole's daughter and she's older than the bride so when she was noticeable absent at her father's wedding, tongues began to wag. But explaining why she was absent, Winifred said;
"The information for the day was not properly circulated, I would say I was busy taking care of my life, work and my family and I must have missed out on the plan, I cannot say for the rest of my sisters but I am sure we were not properly informed. I wish the couple a great married life and I am sure she will make my father happy.."
Oshiomhole's other children and grandchildren were at the wedding.

You're invited to an amazing stage play hosted by Daystar Christian Centre this Sunday

It's the classical stage play production everyone has been awaiting. After much anticipation, Daystar Christian Centre's drama group, TheReflections is set to premiere an exciting stage play titled
"TheDupliCityStore" this Sunday 17th May 2015 at Plot A3C Ikosi Road, Oregun Ikeja, Lagos.

A thought-provoking and life-changing play production, TheDupliCityStore will be staged live in four encore performances at 7am, 8:45am, 10:30am and 12:15pm respectively.




You can also watch live online, from anywhere across the globe, via www.daystarng.tv. Admission is to this event is free and you are enjoined to invite friends and family members.

For more enquiries, feel free at tweet at @DaystarNG.

Study, Work and Live in Canada

Do you wish to obtain an international certificate in a reputable and highly rated institution in Canada?

Maple Education Canada Inc. is inviting you to a free education seminar for Secondary School Leavers and Graduate. Maple Education Canada Inc. is affiliated to over 35 Canadian Institutions (High schools, Colleges and Universities) such as University of Alberta, Carleton University,
University of Manitoba, Vancouver Island University, Thompson Rivers University, Columbia

International College, Centennial College, Algonquin College, International College of Manitoba, Fraser International College, Lambton College, Peace River North School District 60, Golden Hills Secondary School, Bodwell School, amongst others.

University of Ibadan VC Explains How Student Died

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Isaac Adewole, has given an account of how an undergraduate of the school, Mayowa Alaran pictured above, died last Thursday which resulted in major protests in the school. Fellow students of the deceased had alleged that their colleague who slumped while watching a match, passed away due to negligence by staff of the school's medical center.

Speaking with newsmen in the school campus, the Vice Chancellor debunked the students claims. What he said after the cut...

Fayrouz L'Original Season2 Enters Audition Phase- Makes 1st Stop at University of Ibadan

The second edition of the Fayrouz L’Original Expression Show is about to get more exciting as the organizers kick off the auditions phase of the competition, starting with University of Ibadan, Oyo State on Friday, May 15 and Saturday, May 16, 2015.

The oldest and most prestigious university in Nigeria which boasts of over 30,000 students is all set to host Fayrouz L'Original Expression Show designed to give young undergraduates, fresh graduates and corp members with unique creative abilities a platform to showcase their original works for a chance to win amazing prizes and opportunities.



According to the organizers, the Ibadan auditions is open to thousands of registered participants from within and around the ancient city.

EFCC Arraigns Five over N26million Internet Fraud

Find the EFCC press statement below ...
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Monday, May 11, 2015 arraigned Uchenna Nwako, Ejikeme Oluchukwu, Nnamani Ikechukwu, Ibeh kodili Martins and Nwako Victoria Ifeoma before Justice D.V Agishir of the Federal High Court, Enugu, on a 16-count charge bordering on intent to defraud and obtaining N26,338,000 by false pretence.
The five accused persons were picked up by EFCC operatives on February 27, 2013 after intelligence reports indicated that they were involved in fraudulent activities bordering on cybercrime.

Part of the charge read: “That you Uchenna Nwako, Ejikme Oluchukwu, Nnamani Ikechukwu, Ibeh Kodili Martins and Nwako Victoria Ifeoma sometime in November 2012 in Enugu, Enugu State within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court of Nigeria, conspired among yourselves to commit an unlawful act to wit: obtaining money by false pretense and thereby committed an offense contrary to Section 8(a) and punishable under section 1(3) of Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.

Elumelu to Address Industrialists in White House

Former Managing Director of United Bank for Africa (UBA), Mr. Tony Elumelu

Former Managing Director of United Bank for Africa (UBA), Mr. Tony Elumelu, has been nominated to address a select group of global industrialists at the White House in Washington D.C., the United States to celebrate emerging entrepreneurs around the globe.
The event, a statement issued by Tony Elemelu Foundation in Lagos yesterday and obtained by an online news medium, Freedom Online, said, Elumelu would be hosted by US President, Barack Obama, today.
According to the statement, the event is a prelude to Obama’s scheduled trip to Kenya in the summer for the Global Entrepreneurship Summit.
Elumelu, one of Africa’s business leaders, the statement said, had been identified as one of the promoters of global entrepreneurs.
The Elumelu Foundation recently inaugurated 100 million dollars Entrepreneurship Programme, aimed at assisting in growing 10,000 start-up companies across the Africa over a decade.
The foundation said the White House entrepreneurship celebration would bring established and emerging entrepreneurs across the world seeking the support and commitment of investors, governments, private foundations and individuals, together.
Speakers expected to join Obama and Eleumelu in the event, according to the statement, include Mark Cuban, owner of the Dallas Mavericks; Barbara Corcoran, founder of Barbara Corcoran Venture Partners. Others are Daymond John, Chief Executive Officer and founder of FUBU; Antonio Gracias, founder of Valor Equity Partners and Julie Hanna, founder of Kiva.

P & G Partners With Desperate Housewives Africa To Promote Local Content in Nigerian Entertainment!

Maker of leading consumer products, Procter & Gamble Nigeria is sponsoring the African adaptation of the popular and award winning American series, Desperate Housewives.

The company is sponsoring with two of its leading brands – Oral B & Ariel detergent, as its contribution to the promotion of local content in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

The Desperate Housewives premiere which held on 28th of April, 2015 at Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos, had in attendance the crème de la crème of the entertainment industry.

One of the guests, Adebanke Elegbede who participated in the Oral B Smile of the Day Competition, won for herself a brand new washing machine.

Mo Abudu, CEO of Ebony Life TV, owner of Desperate Housewives Africa franchise, commended P&G for adopting and believing in the potency of the African adaption of the American series, adding that its sponsorship is a proof of its commitment to supporting homegrown entertainment . Living & Celebrating the African Dream!
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Get a Job in 10 minutes, take the 10:10 Challenge

                          
What can you do in 10minutes? Boil an egg? Record a song? Or get a job with a leading financial institution? Take the 10:10 challenge and you could work with Nigeria’s leading bank. Are you young and amazing? Do you want to join a family of exceptional people? Do you want a career in a Bank that would take your career to the next level? More importantly, do you have what it takes? If your answer is yes to these questions, then this is your chance to Take Tomorrow Today...

Footballer Emmanuel Adebayor's brother begs for forgiveness

                          
Emmanuel Adebayor's brother, Rotimi Adebayor, who the Togo and Tottenham Hotspur striker has put on blast in two posts on Facebook recently, is begging his brother and other family members for forgiveness for the mistakes he has made.

Rotimi Adebayor told the BBC that he's "on his knees" asking for the family to be together again.

"I'm so sorry for everything that I've done wrong... I want to beg, forgive me. I want him [Emmanuel] to try and be with us again. To sit like a family, do things together. I pray to God that moment is coming soon. People are laughing at us, but they will see us and they will cry... God's time is the best, I wish my brother good luck." he said

Four Nigerians that Contested for seats in UK parliament win

Four Nigerians who contested for various seats to represent different county in UK's parliament won their elections. Helen Grant won the seat for Member of Parliament representing Maidstone and The Weald while Chuka Umunna won the elections to represent Streatham. Kate Osamor won the seat for Edmonton in North London while Chi Onwurah won the seat for New Castle upon Tyne Central. Congrats to them. Pics after the cut

Galaxy of Stars As Africa Magic Celebrates Igbo Channel

Finally, the African Magic Igbo Channel was launched and for some weeks now, it has been running on Africa Magic, the continent's leading provider of world class African entertainment. But a recent gathering, which hosted a galaxy of movie stars in Enugu State, was merely to celebrate the new channel and all that it portends. Writes Mary Ekah.  "The industry has embraced it, the viewers obviously love it. It is another channel that tells a different side of the Nigeria story and helps, outsiders see Nigeria and Africa as a whole, from another point of view.  It is not just about Nigeria but it is about Africa. So we have audiences all across Africa that are actually keen to this channel. So we are really excited.” Those were the exact words of the visibly excited Regional Director of M-Net (West), Mrs. Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, at the recent event to celebrate the birth of the Africa Magic Igbo Channel held in Enugu. The launch could not have come at a better time and so the turn out was huge as a handful of Igbo sons and daughters in and outside the movie industry, mostly dressed in their native attires, turned out in a large number to witness the landmark event. The event was the celebration of the Igbo culture and the role Igbo language movies played in founding the Nigerian film and television industry, which has grown to become the second biggest movie industry in the world. M-Net, owners of the Africa Magic channels, has therefore availed Africans with platforms to tell their stories from their own perspective.  The star studded event featured elegant performances by an Igbo traditional troupe and stellar performances from artistes including Chidinma, Phyno, and Flavour, who closed the event with a medley of his hit songs. A highlight of the evening was when the elegant stallion, Onyeka Onwenu, joined Chidinma on stage in a spontaneous, unforgettable performance.  Hosted by ace comedian and Nollywood actor, Okey Bakassi, the glamorous event, which held at The Dome, had in attendance leading players from the Nigerian film and television industry including many who were instrumental to the industry's founding with early Igbo language content. Veteran entertainers like Chief Peter Edochie, Onyeka Owenu, Bob-Manuel Udokwu, Eucharia Anunobi, Kenneth Okonkwo, Clem Ohameze and Francis Duru were present at the event, which featured colourful displays of the Igbo culture.  

3 Things You Need For Recognizing Opportunities

Moyo Mamora

It’s often said that success happens when opportunity meets preparation. The beauty of life is that we all have access to opportunities. However, only a few people have trained themselves to recognize these opportunities, and more importantly take advantage of them. An opportunity is defined as either a favorable or advantageous circumstance or combination of circumstances, or a chance for progress or advancement.

No matter where you may be in life currently, there’s always more…something better…and greater. Don’t let the memories of the past impede on the dreams of tomorrow. Past failures or success is never an indication of what opportunities are available for you going forward.

The next phase of progress in our lives many times is routed through the door of opportunity. Hence, it is imperative that at every point in life we ask “what’s next?” and “How do I get there?” The answer to these questions is in preparation!

What does it take to take advantage of opportunities?

Decision
It all starts with a decision! I realized that life got much better for me the moment I began to take decisions and own them. When you make a firm decision and follow through on it, it is empowering. You recognize that you are responsible for your life and with that if you don’t like the way things are you can make a change. The feeling of being able to influence one’s circumstances is one of the highest cognitive states.

Zig Ziglar said, “As a young aspiring speaker I heard a motivation speaker say ‘You are where you are because that’s exactly where you chose to be.’ I was broke, in debt, and down in the dumps. It came through loud and clear that I was where I was and what I was because of the choices and decisions I made!”

Doing nothing or making exhaustive complaints about your current situation is a decision in itself. Your decisions, not your circumstances, determine your destiny. Make a decision to prepare for the next phase of your life and to take full advantage of God given opportunities.

Recognize that there are certain aspects of your life that you have the power to change, and make a decision to do what it takes to make those changes. You become happier and fulfilled to the degree you feel in control of your life, but it all starts with a decision!

Perspective
Do you see the glass half full or half empty? Both pessimism and optimism have their advantages, but I’d rather be an optimist. For you to make the best of opportunities and succeed, you must have an expectation of a better future. You attract what you expect and what you hold in your mind; with an optimistic perspective on life, you are conditioned to see the positive in situations. As a result, when others are blinded to possible opportunities, you will recognize them.

How Britain's Election Has Stumped the Betting Markets

British voters are heading to the polls Thursday, and it looks as if it’s going to be a nail-biter. Political prediction markets suggest that it’s basically a 50-50 bet as to whether the Conservative prime minister, David Cameron, will serve another term or be ousted by Labour’s leader, Ed Miliband. I can recall very few elections where the bookies couldn’t pick a favorite by election eve.

The traditional two-party system is breaking down in Britain, which makes the outcome more uncertain because it renders traditional approaches to predicting the outcome less useful. Multiparty elections bring a type of complexity that traditional polling — and computer models based on polling — are ill-equipped to deal with.

US Govt Considers Michelle Obama, Biden, Kerry For Buhari's Inauguration

Following thesuccessful conduct of the 2015 polls, there are indications that the United States Government will send a large, high-powered delegation, which may be led by either US First Lady Michelle Obama, Vice-President Joe Biden or Secretary of State, John Kerry, to the inauguration of Major-General Muhammadu Buhari on May 29 as Nigeria’s fifth democratically elected president.

Confirming this on Wednesday, a source in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told THISDAY that it was very likely that the delegation might be led by either Mrs. Obama, the US vice-president or Kerry.

He said the ministry was aware that Nigeria’s Ambassador to the US, Prof. Ade Adefuye was scheduled to have a meeting with the US State Department at 2 pm (EST) on Monday where the issue of the delegation will be discussed and finalised.

Since Buhari’s victory at the polls and the peaceful transition in the country following President Goodluck Jonathan’s concession of defeat, several countries have shown a renewed interest in Nigeria and have moved to improve ties with the incoming administration.
Relations between Nigeria and the US, in recent months, have been frosty following the latter’s reluctance to provide concrete assistance in the war against the Boko Haram insurgency.

Things got to a head last year when the US blocked Nigeria’s attempt to procure American-manufactured Cobra helicopters from Israel for the war against Boko Haram.

Vconnect Introduces Online Deals, Slashes Sales By 80%. http://deals.vconnect.com/#55428c4da1574

The new http://deals.vconnect.com/#55428c4da1574 innovation tion from your own largest local search engine in Nigeria, Vconnect.com, is a fast growing deal site in Nigeria. With it’s beautifully arranged products and services in categories that include:

·         Men: easy access to products that suits men
·         Women: women categorized products and services
·         Lifestyle: best place to shop for your clothes and accessories
·         Home Decor: a place for all household goodies
·         Electronics: deals place for discounted electronics
One can easily see and select needed products and services within seconds. Continue...

Floyd Mayweather Goes To The Club With His Girlfriends

Floyd Mayweather, who made about $180million on Saturday after his fight with Pacquaio took two of his girlfriends plus his Money Team to the club in Vegas last night to celebrate his win. Chris Brown, whose birthday it was yesterday, performed on stage.

2015 Budget: FG Borrows N473bn in Four Months

The Federal Government on Tuesday said it had within the past four months, borrowed the sum of N473bn to finance the 2015 budget.

The Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, stated this during a media briefing on the 2015 budget, which was passed last week by the National Assembly.

The Senate had last week Tuesday passed the national budget of N4.493tn for the 2015 fiscal year, about five months after it was presented by Okonjo-Iweala.

The fiscal document, which was earlier passed by the House of Representatives two weeks ago, was N51bn higher than the N4.425tn submitted to both chambers of the National Assembly by the Federal Government.

But the minister said despite the fact that the budget had not been signed into law by President Goodluck Jonathan, the constitution allows the executive to incur expenditure within the first six months into the fiscal year.

She, however, said the drop in oil revenue, which began in 2014 and lasted up to the first quarter of this year, had impacted negatively on the gross federally collectible revenue.

For instance, she said the country experienced a 50 per cent cut in revenue owing to the slump in oil prices, coupled with low revenue receipts from non-oil sources as most companies had yet to file in their tax returns within the first quarter of this year.

This, according to her, had made the government to resort to borrowing the sum of N473bn out of the N882bn provided for borrowing in the 2015 budget.

The minister said in as much as the Federal Government had, in the past, tried to reduce the level of borrowing, such could not be achieved this year owing to cash flow problems.

For instance, she said government borrowing was brought down to about N570bn last year, noting that the figure had to go up to about N882bn in order to cushion the negative impact of revenue decline.

According to her, about N380bn of the N882bn is for external borrowing while the balance of N502bn is for domestic borrowing.

She said, “We have tried to work within the budget. The budget provides for N882bn in borrowing and we have had to increase the borrowing budget this year as compared to last year when we have actually brought it down.

“If you all recall, we said we will be bringing down borrowing to finance the budget and we have been doing that steadily.

“Last year, the borrowing came down to about N570bn but this year, because of the very difficult cashflow situation, we ve provided N882bn in borrowing.

“About N380bn of that is external borrowing and the balance of N502bn for domestic borrowing. So what we ve had to do to manage this first half is to front load the borrowing program which is a normal reaction that you have because the cash crunch has been very difficult.

“In the budget, we provided for N882bn and all we have borrowed is within the budget. What we have borrowed so far is N473bn and so we still have more room for borrowing.”

Freebies & Job Opportunities at Koga Entertainment

Koga Entertainment which is the mother & umbrella body to Koga studios, Koga records and KogaTv (the first and only 24 hours online streaming television in Nigeria) is out with another first. The entertainment power house in a bid to expand, reach and entertain more audience has launched a new unique online portal which has an active/interactive radio, exclusive contents, fresh music videos, movies amongst other unique features.

Now this is the catch; 500 lucky people would have an unrestricted access to this portal for two month for free by simply registering on www.kogaxtra.tv. Hurry as registration for the free access is open till the end of May from where 500 people would be picked.

Do you think you have what it takes to be part of the generation next team? Then hurry, send your Cv to info@kogaentertainment.com as job opportunities abound for producers, presenters amongst other TV crew members would be needed on the platforms Koga TV (terrestrial) and Kogaxtra.tv(online).  Entries close a week from this post. Follow @kogaent and @kogateeve for updates.

The Oby Ezekwesili Aljazeerah Interview that's got everyone talking

Former Minister of Education and convener of the Bringbackourgirls group, Oby Ezekwesili was a guest on Al-jazeerah's Hardtalk which aired on Friday  May 1st and it has got many people on social media talking. Many believe she responded very intelligently throughout the interview but expressed their reservations regarding her response when she was asked if the administration of her former boss, Olusegun Obasanjo who she served under as Minister of Education was as corrupt as what many have described it to be.
"I really like empirical evidence..and right now you don't have any. You just assumed" - she told the reporter. More stuff she said after the cut...

How To Get A Small Business Loan From A Bank

                                                   Let’s talk about getting a small business loan from a bank. One of the challenges of running and expanding a small business in Nigeria is getting access to funds to finance the business. People usually start their businesses with money they have saved and, sometimes, donations or loans from friends and family. Sometimes, money from these sources is not enough to really grow a business, and so the business owner starts looking for other ways to finance his ventures.

Some business owners say that banks are not willing to lend money to small businesses. This is not the case. The issue, many times, is that business owners do not know how to organize and present their businesses in a way that will help them get money from banks.
Here are five simple ways through which you can increase your chances of getting a loan from a bank, and grow your business.
·         Number one, you must understand why banks give out loans in the first place. Banks give out loans because they expect to be paid back. They will therefore only lend to a business purpose that they think is sound. A bank will not lend you money unless you can show that bank that you have a good business plan and that you will use the money that you are given as your business plan says.
·         The second thing is your reputation. Do you have a record of borrowing from banks and repaying what you borrowed? Or have you borrowed from other banks and not paid back? If you have a track record of not paying loans you have taken or issuing cheques which bounce, most banks will not be willing to lend you money.
·         Number three; do you have a good accounting system in place for your business? Many banks will only lend to businesses that have a good and accurate accounting system. The accounting system must show that the owner’s accounts and the accounts of the business are separate. The accounting documents which banks like to see before they lend you money for your business are the profit and loss account of the business, the balance sheet, the cash flow statement and etc.
·         Four, are you familiar with your industry? It is easier to convince a bank to lend to you if you are able to show that you understand the industry that you do business in and, that you understand the value that you bring to that industry. Do you know who your major competitions are? What do you offer that they do not or cannot? How do you intend to win a bigger market share over time? If you can show that you understand your competition and how to get ahead of them, banks may consider your business a good one to support.
·         Finally, be persistent. Many small business owners try just one of two banks and then give up on their goal of getting a loan because they have been rejected. It is important to know that banks have different business areas in which they focus. They also have different areas of knowledge. Some banks prefer to lend to really big companies while others prefer to lend to small or medium sized ones. If you really need a loan, don’t give up after trying just one or two banks.
If you have a good business plan, keep the right accounts and find the right bank, chances are that you will get the loan that you are looking for to grow your business.
This has been courtesy Wema Bank as part of The Bankers Committee Financial Literacy Public Enlightenment Programme brought to you by The Bankers Committee, comprising all the commercial Banks in Nigeria and the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN.

Congratulations MayoMipo's 2015 On Your Wedding Ceremony

 It was a successful wedding ceremony today at St. Thomas Church Events Centre, Ondo Road, Akure. Congratulations MayoMipoMayoMipo2015. More photos below...

Mayweather vs Pacquiao: 'Fight of the century'

Who are the stars of boxing backing?
Mayweather v Pacquiao
Venue: MGM Grand, Las Vegas. Date: 2/3 May: 21:00 local time/05:00 Sunday BST
Coverage: Live text commentary on the BBC Sport website
By Ben Dirs, BBC Sport in Las Vegas
On Saturday in Las Vegas, Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao will engage in the richest fight in history at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

So much has been said about the numbers involved that it is sometimes difficult to remember there are other things at stake - namely the WBC, WBA and WBO welterweight titles and the title of best boxer of the modern era.

It is a fight everyone has an opinion on and BBC Sport has pooled the thoughts of boxers past and present, including some of the sport's greatest names. Continue

Happy New Month SLB Readers

Today, the first day of the month of May is not just another day, it's a special day, because you see, it's another chance, a new opportunity, a new beginning to keep moving forward, or starting over, doing new things, opening new doors, thinking great ideas...or if you think you have not done well so far - a time to start all over again, another chance to get it right, to fight for your dreams.

My hope for you is that you realize today that no matter how hard it's been for you, no matter how much you think you have failed in the past - every new day is an opportunity to start all over again. I wish you new ideas, new energy, new determination, new excitement and God's guidance.

I know for sure your best is yet to come, so keep fighting. May all your dreams come true.
Happy new month! Stephen

Photos From 2013/2014 UI Induction Faculty of Technology

From 2015 University of Ibadan Faculty of Technology's Induction Here at Tech Large Lecture Theatre. Congratulations on your induction into Nigerian Society of Engineers. More Photos below...

Photos: Meet Miss Nollywood Nigeria 2015 - Miss Gwen

Pretty Gwendolyn Okutele from Delta state is the current Miss Nollywood Nigeria. She's an actress and a 400l student of the department of Business Administration at the Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti. She's also a former Miss ‘Face of the Niger Delta.

GEJ Sacks MD of Nigerian Ports Authority, appoints Sanusi Lamido Ado Bayero as new MD

Read the State House press release below...
President Goodluck Jonathan has approved the appointment of Alhaji Sanusi Lamido Ado Bayero as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). Alhaji Sanusi, a lawyer, from Kano State takes over from Mallam Habib Abdullahi (pictured above) who has been relieved of his appointment as Managing Director of the NPA.
The appointment of the new NPA Managing Director takes effect from tomorrow, Thursday, April 30 2015.
President Jonathan thanks the outgoing Managing Director for his services and wishes well in his future endeavours.

Reuben Abati Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) April 29, 2015

Senate Presidency: Tinubu Withdraws Support for Akume, Lobbies for Ahmed Lawan

• North-central caucus kicks as APC moves to zone post to North-east
Chuks Okocha in Abuja

The battle for the principal offices of the National Assembly has taken another turn with the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Bola Tinubu, withdrawing his support for the former Governor of Benue State, Senator George Akume, as his preferred candidate for the Senate presidency.


By jettisoning Akume, it is a clear indication that the North-central geopolitical zone may have lost out in its bid for the number one position in the National Assembly to the North-east zone.

Army Spokesman Says 200 girls rescued today are not Chibok girls

                                                 The army tweeted yesterday evening that they can't confirm if Chibok girls were among the 200 girls they rescued from Sambisa forest today, that they will know after they screen and profile the rescued girls. But now Reuters, AP and Al-Jazeera are reporting that an Army Spokesperson has confirmed Chibok girls are not among the 293 girls and women rescued today.

Army spokesman Col. Sani Usman told The Associated Press that troops destroyed and cleared four militant camps and rescued 200 abducted girls and 93 women "but they are not the Chibok girls." (Let's wait for official confirmation from Army Spokesperson, Olukolade)

The Campus Heat Awards 2015 Live @ The Oriental Hotel, May 9th

Join us on May 9th, 2015 as we honor and recognize our nation's leaders of tomorrow.


The highly anticipated Campus Heat Awards 2015 exclusively sponsored by Efizy.com will this year take place at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos. Tribute shall be paid to young men and women who overtime have shown a dedication to the advancement of the nation through hard work, social relevance, philanthropy and varying entrepreneurial endeavors.


Red Carpet: 4:00 PM | Main Event: 7:30 PM | Celebrity After Party: Details To Be Revealed At The Event

Guests are certified going to have an amazing time as there will be: Music & Comedy Performances, Dance Show-Offs, Never-Before-Seen Talent Showcase & lots of Giveaways.

For The Full #CHA2015 Experience, Download The Efizy App on Your Devices. (Efizy.com; @EfizyApp)

On The App, You Get To:

- Vote For Your Favorite Nominees Till May 9 As Voting
Closes on the Campus Heat website April 30.
- Win Free VIP Tickets To The Event
- Win A Night Stay At The Oriental Hotel
- Get Exclusive Advance Details on The Celebrity After Party
- Get Free Champagne Service & Food During The Event & After Party
- Full Paid Hang-Out Tickets To Get Arena For You & A Guest
- Cash Prizes
- Android phones & Loads of Data/Airtime

Tickets For The Campus Heat Awards Are Now Selling:

Silver: N3,000 | Gold: N10,000 | Table For 8: N100,000

To Purchase Tickets, Kindly Call Any of These Numbers:
07011041930 | 08051582354 | 08183750053 or Add Pin: 52F4B2EA .

To View The Nominees Lists, Cast Your Votes e.t.c Visit www.campusheathq.com & Remember To Support Your Nominees on @CampusHeat @EfizyApp (Instagram/Twitter)

For More Information on the Campus Heat Awards 2015, Visit The Website: www.campusheathq.com .

See You There :)

Oshoala shortlisted for BBC Women's Footballer of the year

Super Falcons and Liverpool FC forward, Asisat Oshoala, has been shortlisted for the first edition of the British Broadcasting Corporation Women’s Footballer of the Year.

The BBC is widely noted for their African Footballer of the Year award which comes up before the Confederation of African Football edition.

The new event was announced during one of their monthly programmes ahead of the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Canada.

The African Footballer of the Year was nominated along with four others: Spain’s Verónica Boquete, German Nadine Kessler, Kim Little of Scotland and Marta of Brazil.

Like the BBC Africa Footballer of the Year award, fans are expected to vote for their favourite player to increase their chances of winning the award with the voting closing on May 11 and the winner being announced on May 26.

Controller of BBC World Service English, Mary Hockaday, said, “The five shortlisted players represent an incredible array of talent and show the growing strength of the women’s game. The vote is now open to fans to choose their favourite playyer.

APC Taraba Female Governorship Candidate Loses Rerun To PDP Candidate

Nigeria's dream of having the first elected female governor has been dashed after the APC Guber candidate in Taraba state, Aisha Alhassan, lost the governorship rerun election to the PDP governorship candidate, Darius Ishaku.


INEC this afternoon declared Mr Ishaku winner of the rerun election held yesterday April 25th. Mr Ishaku pulled a total of 369, 318 votes while Aisha Alhassan pulled a total of 275, 984.

Beautiful Photo of Oyo State Governor and His Family

Oyo state governor, Abiola Ajimobi pictured with his wife Florence, their daughters, son-in law and grandson at Mrs Ajimobi's birthday thanksgiving recently.

Win a free trip to an unforgettable experience in Kigali

Have you dreamt of going to Rwanda? You could be in with a chance of winning the trip of a lifetime

Travelstart, Nigeria’s leading online travel agency is giving you a chance to win one of 3 free return flights to Kigali, sponsored by RwandAir. Fly with Rwanda national carrier, RwandAir, for a unique Rwandan experience. This is an amazing opportunity you shouldn’t miss!


Rwanda is an impeccably beautiful country, characterized by deep valleys, sheer rolling hills and fascinating savannah. Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda is simply stunning and full of picturesque attractions and amusements, waiting to be explored.

No holiday to Rwanda will be complete without Gorilla adventure, one of the most amazing activities. Get a chance to go gorilla tracking in Volcanoes National Park.

So why not make it easier for you to go there by entering into Travelstart Nigeria and RwandAir Competition.

Click here to enter and stand a chance to win http://competitions.travelstart.com

How will Xenophobic attacks in SA affect Business?

The recent wave of attacks against foreigners living in South Africa has damaged the image of the country as an investment destination.
Experts have been saying that political stability is a major factor when it comes to putting money into a country and the pictures of the attacks in South Africa are giving some investors pause for thought.
From South Africa, the BBC's Roderick Macleod reports for Africa Business Report.

Google Launches Project Fi Mobile Phone Network

Google Project Fi  will connect users to open wi-fi hotspots and Sprint and T-Mobile USA's 4G networks
Google has detailed its plan to run a mobile phone network in the US.
The firm will rent voice and data capacity from two existing operators - Sprint and T-Mobile - and use existing wi-fi hotspots, rather than build new infrastructure from scratch.
Initially, Project Fi will only be offered to Nexus 6 handset owners.
Google Fiber, the firm's "ultra-fast" broadband service, is already seen as a disruptive force in the US telecoms market.
It has been credited with encouraging Comcast and Time Warner Cable to offer their own customers speed boosts without higher prices.
However, Fiber's roll-out involved Google buying infrastructure built by companies that had collapsed as well as laying its own fibre optic cables - giving it full control of the service.
By contrast, one expert said running a mobile virtual network - which is dependent on rivals' equipment - might limit Project Fi's impact.
"The example of MVNOs in the US and elsewhere suggests that it's hard for their operators to dramatically change the industry because of their nature," said Ian Fogg from the IHS Technology consultancy.
"But the past isn't always a guide to the future.
"No-one would have thought that a handset manufacturer could transform the mobile industry by teaming up with one network - but that's what happened with Apple and AT&T when the iPhone launched.
"And Google itself has repeatedly shown that it is capable of changing the direction of an industry by entering it." Continue...

43 Boko Haram Child Soldiers Rescued in Borno State

43 Boko Haram child soldiers have been rescued by the Chadian army in Damasak, Borno state. Spokesperson of Chadian Army, Col. Azem Agouna, while revealing this yesterday April 22nd, said the children, all aged between 12 and above and of Chadian nationality managed to escape during the clashes between insurgents and soldiers, while local families helped them to hide from the militias.

He explained that when it was certain that Boko Haram had been defeated and would not return to the town, the children came out of their hiding places and asked Chadian security forces for help. The spokesman said the children have been repatriated back to Chad while a full scale investigation into how they were abducted will be launched.

Something Fresh & Exciting! Pepsi & Viva Entertainment Launch New Cinema in Ibadan

Head of Marketing, Viva Entertainment, Tunji Folayan; Actress Iyabo Ojo, CEO, Persianas Retail, Rian Erasmus; GM, Seven-up Bottling Company Plc Ibadan, Louis Prem Kumar, ace Nollywood producer, Lancelot Imasuen, and Brand Manager, SBC, Segun Ogunleye.


Pepsi and Viva Entertainment, two world class brands have come together to redefine the entertainment landscape of the ancient city of Ibadan as Viva Cinema berths at The Palms Shopping Mall, Challenge, Ibadan.



The atmosphere was exquisite and alluring with music blasting from the high speakers at the lobby of the cinema. The cinema was being made officially open to the public on Thursday April 16, 2015.

From the premier university, University of Ibadan, Lead City University, and The Polytechnic Ibadan, students and other town folks came in droves to be part of history as Ibadan is formally stewed in the urban pop culture of world-class cinema and entertainment.

With two notable Nigerian film producer and actress, Iyabo Ojo and Lancelot Imasuen present to premiere their award-winning films Silence and Invasion 1897 respectively, the excitement was palpable as they waited patiently for the cinema hall to fling open with a cone of pop corn and a can of Pepsi in hand.

Pepsi raised the decibel of the fun with ladies dancing competition in which rich goody bags were given away as prizes.

Norden Thurston, Head of Marketing, Seven-Up Bottling Company Plc, said Pepsi’s partnership with Viva Entertainment is aimed at encouraging relationships and bonding among friends and families and enthrone the culture of relaxation outside of the home.



Rian Erasmus, CEO of Persianas Retail, owners of Viva Cinema was ecstatic at the huge attendance which he attributed to the partnership between his organisation and Pepsi a brand already legendary in urban youth culture entertainment.

Some notable On Air Personalities (OAP) present at the event included Don T and Ronke from Splash FM, Tobi of Beat FM among others.

_______


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Ijaw group asks GEJ to grant presidential pardon to James Ibori before he leaves office

An Ijaw group called the Ijaw People’s Development Initiative, IPDI, in Delta State, over the weekend asked President Jonathan to grant presidential pardon to former governor of Delta state, James Ibori, before he leaves as president of Nigeria on May 29th.
"Ibori should be freed. Hundreds of persons, who looted heavily from government coffers are walking freely in the streets. The continuous incarceration of one corrupt man among a million other corrupt citizens cannot change the menace of high level corruption in the country. Ibori’s imprisonment could be seen as a witch-hunt and such is highly barbaric and provocative and the Nigerian government must quickly do something about his matter. Despite the ordeals Ibori is passing through, Deltans hold him in high esteem and his great achievements while in office cannot be discountenanced.
There should be no sacred cow among political office holders. Ibori’s case is not different, he is a victim of circumstances. Release him and let him breathe fresh air and let other corrupt public office holders be tried as well.” National President the group, Mr. Austin Ozobo, in interactive with newsmen, said (Vanguard)

Make Money Off The Cloud

Being among the first to start a new line of business, almost always guarantees business success. Local examples to point to include: Jumia, Konga, Jobberman, Swift, etc. they jumped on the train of new business opportunities & have made huge success. So would you dare to start out on new track?

Last month, Microsoft Nigeria, Mara Mentor and Fate Foundation launched the Cloudpreneurs Project, an initiative which will provide training, support and mentorship for entrepreneurs looking to use cloud technology to provide IT solutions to customers.  

So if you own a cloud-based business or are interested in starting one, apply to be a Cloudpreneuer and stand the chance to participate in the project.

100 top applicants will receive technical training from Microsoft, business training and mentorship from Fate Foundation and Mara Mentor. Then, the 20 best will emerge and move on to be mentored on how to grow their business.
Remember, innovation drives competitive advantage, and with the wave of cloud technology moving fast globally, the best time to start a cloud-based business is now!
Application for the Cloudpreneurs Project is open from the 20th of March to the 26th of April

To register, go to: https://mentor.mara.com/cloudpreneurs/

Sterling Bank Sends 6Winners to the Emirate Stadium...

Up until date, over twenty (20) winners have emerged from the Sterling Bank Gunners Promo and at least six (6) have been sent to The Emirate Stadium to watch several Arsenal matches.

Winners of the promo who have made the trip include Oseni Tajudeen Adekunle, Segun Oghe John, Ohaeri Uloma, Bala Obarabi Belief, Momodu Francis Aleogho and Lawal Bamidele Kazeem enjoyed a 3-day all-expense paid trip to London covering return flights, match tickets and accommodation.





An excited Oseni, who spoke with journalists at the Emirates Stadium said: “The experience is wonderful. Setting my eyes on the players as they arrived the stadium and seeing the best manager in the world, Arsene Wenger is wonderful”.
“The entire process was flawless. Right from the head office of the Bank from where we took off to the airport, the arrangement was superb. The Bank had also put in place adequate arrangement for accommodation, feeding and transportation which made life very comfortable for us. When the players started coming out, l was so excited, it was a rich experience for me”. Mr. Oseni further said.

Segun Oghe John added “I opened the account to identify with a bank supporting the darling team of millions of Nigerians and this has made it possible for me to connect directly with the Arsenal players by watching the match Live. It is the dream of all football lovers to have this great opportunity that Sterling Bank has provided”.





























Mr. Shina Atilola; Group Head, Strategy & Communications, stated that the Bank initiated the promo to reward customers for their loyalty, and encourage football lovers to share the one-customer experience. He said “The Sterling Gunners Promo is opened to not only Sterling account holders but also to customers who have a Sterling-Arsenal debit card on a regular account. All one has to do is maintain the sum of N30, 000 over a period of 3 months (90 days). Lucky winners will enjoy a 3-day all-expense trip covering return flights, match tickets and accommodation.

NNPC Missing Money Traced To A Top Bank

$16million out the $20billion allegedly stolen from the coffers of the Nigeria National Petroleum, NNPC by the management of the corporation have reportedly been refunded by the management of one of the top banks in Nigeria due to fear of prosecution by the incoming government.



According to nairausd.blogspot.com, in the eye of the storm is the embattled Minister of Petroleum, Mrs. Deziani Allison-Madueke, has since commenced on a shuttle between Nigeria and abroad.

Until the conclusion of the presidential election, the minster  had allegedly embarked on shenanigans and illegal stunts in an alleged bid to stop the National Assembly from investigating her roles in the missing  funds.

According to a security source who pleaded anonymity, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, Nigeria’s former head of state pleaded with General Buhari not to prosecute the petroleum minister, a situation which led to the refund of $16milion last week, which was allegedly traced to the bank.

Also, the appointment of the CBN governor may not be unconnected to the sordid transactions between the bank and the Jonathan led administration as the CBN governor was once a managing director in the bank.

Allison-Madueke had allegedly masterminded the CBN governor’s appointment and even handpicked him to occupy the post in a bid to cover up her shady deals.

She is now said to be on ‘medical tourism’ outside the country, a situation which sources revealed is a move to stall her arrest after the 29 May hand over.

The Minister of Petroleum Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, had sued some individuals and organizations to prevent them from reporting on the controversial missing $20billion oil money.

No Electoral Offender Will Go Unpunished- Buhari

President-elect, Muhammadu Buhari has vowed not to allow electoral offenders go unpunished. He said he would encourage the setting up of a special court to first prosecute them.

Buhari made this known on Saturday, while speaking with journalists in Daura, Katsina State after he cast his ballot in the governorship and state House of Assembly elections in Kofar Baru 3 of Sarkin Yara Ward, Daura Local Government Area

He said that his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) was critically following developments in Edo, Rivers and Imo States in the gubernatorial and House of Assembly polls, gathering evidence to present to INEC and the courts.

“I will look for understanding and cooperation from the National Assembly where a change in the Constitution or the Electoral Act is necessary. So, for me, to make up my mind here and later try to lobby is out of it because some of them, if they are very hard, they will give me a tough time. I will say that I haven’t read the Uwais Report, but I have read a few of the extracts from the papers, I think it is a good thing and we will encourage it.

“But we need to get a comprehensive report from the field. The running battle from Rivers, the South-East and the rest of the South-South, especially by Governor Amaechi, Governor Rochas Okorocha and governor of Edo State with INEC officials and law enforcement agencies and the Army is remarkable.

“I think it has to be totally exposed so that Nigerians will know which of the law enforcement agencies and at what levels is undermining the Constitution of Nigeria because the Electoral Act is derived from the Constitution of the country, so that in future, those who are in position will know that they are not beyond the law. I think that is what will bring more stability into the system. In view of that, I will try and work with the National Assembly to make sure that we do something about it.

“I will like to work within the system because we believe in it. I have just told you about three governors and the battle they have with the law enforcement agents in their states.

“We discussed and advised them to try and document these things legally so that it can be taken before the court and we will make sure that we register the cooperation of the court so that people who work against the law are prosecuted, especially those who have lost their immunity and those who think they have immunity because this is the best way to stabilize the system.

“People must not benefit from being lawless. You can’t be in a position by virtue of the Constitution, subvert the Constitution and continue to enjoy the privileges offered by the Constitution. I don’t think that will be acceptable by the APC. So, whether you are in the opposition or the government, you have to behave yourself. I think that is the way we can make progress,” Buhari said.

Commenting on the conduct of yesterday’s elections, Buhari said disruptions were less than in the presidential and National Assembly elections held penultimate week. But stories in Lagos and other APC states were unfortunate.

“I think there are less disruptions today than we had during the presidential and National Assembly elections. I hope that it was as a result of the bandwagon effect because APC had the upper hand during the last elections. But what happened in the South-South and the South-East cannot be compared to what happened today.

“What I saw was that there was a few cases of ballot snatching in some local government areas in Bayelsa and a few disruptions in I think, Adamawa state. But that is nothing near to what happened two weeks ago. I don’t think it is up to 25 percent of what happened two weeks ago. I think that after the elections, both parties, APC and PDP will perhaps make their presentations to INEC or the courts and then more details will emerge.

“Definitely maybe because the turnout is much lower. Info9ja