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  • Newly reconstructed towers along Damaturu-Maiduguri line destroyed -TCN

     

    Towers
    By Constance Athekame
    Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), says two of its towers, T193 and T194, along the Damaturu -Maiduguri 330 Kilo Volt (KV Single Circuit) transmission line have again been destroyed by vandals.
    Mrs Ndidi Mbah, TCN’S General Manager Public Affairs said this in a statement in Abuja on Wednesday.
    According to Mbah, the incident happened at about 10:15 p. m. on Tuesday night, when the 150 Mega Volt Ampere (MVA) power transformer at Molai Substation tripped.
    She said that the tripping happened at the same time as the 330kV transmission line supplying bulk power to Maiduguri from Damaturu Transmission Substation.
    ‘After the line tripping, efforts were made by TCN engineers to close the Mulai – Damaturu line to enable bulk transmission of electricity, which failed repeatedly.
    ”Early Today, TCN lines engineers along with security operatives patrolled the line and discovered that towers 193 and 194 along the 330kV transmission line were brought down using an explosive device, which fragments are scattered at the site of the incident.
    ”The area affected by this incident is Maiduguri and its environs, ” she said.
    Mbah recalled that on Dec, 28, 2023, towers T193, T194 and T195, were destroyed using similar improvised explosives.
    She said that two out of the towers in question were the towers affected by Tuesday vandalism attack, which were rebuilt after that incident.
    According to her, TCN is currently assessing the situation with a view to deciding the best approach at ensuring temporary restoration of the power supply while a contractor is mobilised to rebuild the two transmission towers.
    ”We will continue to do everything possible with the assistance of security operatives to protect our transmission towers.
    ”We are also calling upon the government and well-meaning Nigerians to join in the fight against the destruction of our collective national assets, ”she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    COA/EEE
    ========
    Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

  • Nigerian banking system is stable, CIBN assures Nigerians

    Prof. Pius Olarenwaju, President/Chairman of Council, CIBN.

    Lagos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) on Wednesday reassured Nigerians that the banking system remained “safe, sound and resilient,” dispelling fears of bank liquidations.

     

    Its president, Prof. Pius Olanrewaju, gave the reassurance in a statement in Lagos to correct misinformation and fake news that licence of more banks would be revoked.

     

    Olanrewaju emphasised the importance of clarifying rumours that additional bank licenses would be revoked, following the regulatory action taken by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) against Heritage Bank Plc on June 3.

    “We would like to allay the fears of bank customers and the general public that the assertion is false and misleading.

    “The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) have debunked the claim,” the Chairman of Council, CIBN, stated.

    He added that the ongoing recapitalisation process announced by the CBN aims to further strengthen the resilience of banks and their capacity to support the growth of the Nigerian economy.

    “Consequently, we urge the public to continue conducting their banking services without hesitation or apprehension,” Olanrewaju said.

    According to him, CIBN is committed to promoting best practices and ensuring that the sector remains safe and sound, in collaboration with other stakeholders in the ecosystem. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    GA/AWA

    =========

    Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

  • Pyagbara’s early strike earns 3SC slim win over NPFL leaders Rangers

    League

    Ibadan, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Christian Pyagbara’s 13th minute goal on Wednesday ensured hosts Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) beat visiting Rangers International Football Club 1-0 in a 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) fixture.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that victory in the Match Day 36 fixture strenghtened the Ibadan-based 3SC’s pursuit of a place among the competition’s final top three.

    Both sides came into the game looking very hungry for goals to gain advantage, but it was the hosts that soon took charge with flowing moves down the flanks.

    They ran rings round the visitors, with team captain Taofeek Malomo and midfielder Ayobami Junior holding sway.

    They sustained their attack to confine the league leaders to their half, and were soon rewarded when Ayobami Junior’s corner-kick from the left flank was headed in by Pyagbara.

    Rangers fought back gamely, but the 3SC defence was stoic, with Gbolagade Adelowo and Ayodeji Bamidele holding their own and Victor Ehibe and Gali Falke taking full charge on the flanks.

    Second half play saw Rangers International becoming more daring and were close on a number of occasions, only finishing poorly.

    They threatened 3SC so much as to keep them on the back foot midway into the second half.

    But good defending by the hosts and poor finishing by the visitors kept the scoreline the same way it was earlier.

    NAN reports that the result took 3SC to 59 points from 36 games, but still kept them in fourth place, one point behind third-placed Enyimba International FC of Aba.

    This was in  spite of Enyimba dropping two points after drawing 1-1 with visiting Bayelsa United of Yenagoa in Aba to stay with 60 points from 36 matches.

    Rangers on their part are still maintaining top spot with 64 points from 36 matches, two points ahead of second-placed Remo Stars of Ikenne who are with 62 points from 36 games.

    3SC will visit Bayelsa United in their next game, while Rangers host Bendel Insurance.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    OLAL
    ======

    (Edited by Olawale Alabi)

     

     

  • NPFL: Bayelsa United draw 1-1 with Enyimba in Aba

     

    Draw
    By Nicholas Obisike
    Aba (Abia) June 12, 2024 (NAN) Enyimba International FC of Aba on Wednesday suffered another setback in the ongoing Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), when they drew 1-1 with visiting Bayelsa United.

    In the Match Day 36 fixture of the NPFL, Enyimba’s Alade Balogun raised the hope of the teeming Aba fans when he finished off Chijioke Mbaoma’s pass in the 20th minute to give them an early lead.

    However, the team’s celebration was shortlived as Ekeson Okorie’s close range shot beat Enyimba’s goalkeeper Ani Ozomena to level scores at 1-1 in the 35th minute.

    In a post-match interview, Olanrewaju Yemi, the coach of Enyimba, said the frustration his players suffered following the Match Day 35 fixture against Rangers International FC of Enugu on Sunday affected their psyche.

    According to him, the development caused them their dream against the visitors.

    Yemi said: “I know that it is going to affect us because we were slow in the first half.

    “After all the fight in Enugu, I had to motivate the players and let them know that it was not yet over.

    “This is our worst performance so far in the league.

    “Had it been that our play did not improve after the first 45 minutes, we would have lost the match.

    “We were slow in the first half and improved our game in the second half.

    “Our players were down when they learnt that their effort in Enugu was frustrated.

    “The players never expected the deduction of three points and three goals and that caused a setback to the team,” Yemi said.

    His Bayelsa United counterpart, Meremu Okara, praised his players for executing their game plan, describing the point as a good one for his team.

    “I know that Enyimba have experienced players and have always been a good team but it is a good result for us to have picked a point against a good team like Enyimba.

    “It would have been difficult for us to beat them, even though the chance came for us to wrap up the game. But a draw is still a good result for us,” Okara said.

    He gave assurance that his team would do everything possible to escape relegation.

    The coach said the result in Aba showed that his team had the capacity to retain their top league status.

    “Let’s see how we get over Shooting Stars in our next match, because that may determine our fate of escaping relegation on the final day of the league,” Okara said.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Enyimba occupy third position with 60 points, while Bayelsa United rose to the 16th position with 44 points after 36 matches.

    Bayelsa could still be relegated to the Nigeria National League (NNL) as they are being trailed by Sporting Lagos and Doma United, who occupy the 17th and 18th positions respectively with 43 points apiece.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    NUO/USO
    Edited by Sam Oditah

     

  • FG seeks support for establishment of Energy Bank in Nigeria

    FG seeks support for establishment of Energy Bank in Nigeria

    Support

    By Chinenye Offor

    Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), has called for support to establish an African Energy Bank (AEB), in Nigeria.

    Lokpobiri, thus, urged Heads of Mission, Africa Petroleum Producers Organisation (APPO), during a reception in Abuja, to support Nigeria in the bid to establish AEB in the capital city.

    He said that Nigeria offers a strategic geographical location, robust infrastructure and a dynamic energy sector, which made it suitable for the project.

    He explained that the establishment of the bank would represent a bold and strategic move toward ensuring energy security, fostering economic growth and promoting sustainable development across Africa.

    According to him, Nigeria’s bid to host the headquarters of this pivotal institution is a testament to its unwavering commitment to the goals.

    He added that the nation was committed to fostering a collaborative environment that would enable AEB to thrive and achieve its mandate effectively.

    “We have achieved significant milestones, including a comprehensive assessment by the APPO Afrexim-Bank Inspection Team. Its positive evaluation underscores Nigeria’s readiness and capability to host the AEB.

    “However, the journey does not end here, to secure the hosting rights, we need the collective support of all APPO member countries.

    “Our competitors have intensified their efforts by appointing special envoys to lobby for their bids. In response, we are appealing to each of you to recognise the advantages of situating the AEB headquarters in Nigeria.

    “Let us use this opportunity to engage, collaborate, and forge stronger ties.

    ”Together, we can ensure that the AEB finds its rightful home in Nigeria, where it can spearhead the next phase of Africa’s energy renaissance,” he said.

    Lokpobiri also called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to campaign vigorously through its missions in APPO member countries, adding that their support was crucial to the success.

    Amb. Nicholas Ella, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, said that hosting the AEB would boost collaboration and provide a neutral and inclusive platform for African countries to come together and exchange ideas.

    Ella said that it would also provide an opportunity for member countries to chart a collective path toward energy security and sustainable development.

    He said that Nigeria’s bid to host the bank’s headquarters was grounded in a deep-seated conviction that Abuja stood as the quintessential epi-center of energy innovation and cooperation on the continent.

    According to him, Nigeria’s strategic location at the crossroads of West Africa renders Abuja as an unrivalled nexus of connectivity and accessibility with its extensive network of transportation, infrastructure and logistical capabilities.

    “Abuja offers a strategic gateway to the entire African continent, providing the bank with unparalleled access to key energy markets, stakeholders and decision-makers across Africa.

    “By selecting Abuja as its host city, the AEB can serve as a linchpin of connectivity, fostering collaboration and catalysing progress on a continental scale.

    “Nigeria’s rich endowment of oil, gas and renewable energy resources present an unparalleled opportunity for the bank to harness the continent’s vast energy potential and drive sustainable development.

    “With proven reserves of over 37 billion barrels of oil and five trillion cubic meters of natural gas, Nigeria ranks among the top energy producers in Africa.

    “Nigeria’s burgeoning renewable energy sector, characterised by abundant solar and wind resources, holds immense promise for powering Africa’s future,” he said.

    He added that Nigeria’s distinguished legacy of leadership within APPO underscored its unwavering commitment to fostering unity, stability and prosperity within the African energy sector.

    The permanent secretary also said that Nigeria’s proactive approach to regulatory reform had positioned the country as a paragon of stability and transparency within the global energy landscape.

    He added that with a robust regulatory framework in place, Nigeria offers a conducive environment for the AEB to thrive, attract investment, foster innovation and ensure accountability across all facets of energy governance.

    Amb. Ibrahim Lamuwa, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said that the establishment of the AEB by APPO members held the power to shape the trajectory of energy cooperation and development.

    Lamuwa, whose keynote address was delivered by Amb. Ben Okoye, expressed gratitude for unwavering dedication of APPO members to the cause and their steadfast commitment to fostering collaboration and partnership among African nations. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    CSO/CHOM/AMM

    ============

    Edited by Chioma Ugboma and Abiemwense Moru

     

  • First Bank partners IWS to empower 250 widows

    Empowerment
    By Rukayat Adeyemi
    Cross section of widows at the IWS 2024 Widows Feast And Empowerment Programme on Tuesday in Lagos

    Empowerment
    By Rukayat Adeyemi

    Lagos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) First Bank of Nigeria has partnered with the International Women Society (IWS) to empower over 250 widows, in commemoration of the 2024 International Widows’ Day.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that beneficiaries at the event, tagged “IWS Widows Feast and Empowerment Programme”, received various essential tools, equipment and grants on Wednesday in Lagos.

    The items distributed were sewing machines, freezers, coolers, hair dryers, cake mixers, industrial cooking gas, generators, and freezers to help the widows establish and sustain their businesses.

    Ms Lande Atere, Chief Customer Experience Officer of First Bank, said that the financial institution had been partnering with IWS for over a decade.

    According to her, the bank has been empowering women-owned Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with funding and skills acquisition.

    “As an organisation that strategically prioritises financial inclusion, we will continue to support IWS in creating entrepreneurial opportunities and promoting self-reliance and vocational skills among women,” Atere stated.

    Mrs Adebanke Adeola, Chairperson of the International Women’s Society (IWS) Widows Trust Fund (WTF), appreciated First Bank for supporting the society in empowering and feasting with the widows.

    Adeola mentioned that the bank provided Point of Sale (PoS) machines to improve the benefiting widows’ access to financial services and income generation opportunities.

    Also, some beneficiaries would receive extra working capital through the generosity of the financial institution and other sponsors.

    “This partnership, along with generous sponsorships from other companies and individuals, enables us to continue our mission and expand our impact.

    “The programme, organised yearly, aims to help widows achieve financial independence and self-sufficiency,” Adeola said.

    RUKY/AWA

    ==========

    Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

     

  • 2023/2024 NPFL Match Day 36 results

    By Aderonke Ojo

    Abuja, June 12 , 2024 (NAN) The following are the results of Match Day 36 fixtures played on Wednesday in the 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL):

    Gombe United FC 1-3 Abia Warriors FC

    Bendel Insurance FC 2-1 Rivers United FC

    Niger Tornadoes FC 3-2 Lobi Stars FC

    Remo Stars FC 4-1 Heartland FC

    Kwara United 2-0 Kano Pillars FC

    Akwa United FC 3-1 Katsina United FC

    Enyimba International FC 1-1 Bayelsa United FC

    Sporting Lagos FC 1-2 Plateau United FC

    Shooting Stars FC 1-0 Rangers International FC

    The match between Doma United FC and Sunshine Stars FC will be played on June 19. ( NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    STJ/MAM/EMAF
    ============
    Edited by Modupe Adeloye and Emmanuel Afonne

  • Renewed Hope: Gen. Nwachukwu optimistic Tinubu will deliver

     

     

    Members of The Patriots at the tomb of Chief MKO Abiola on Wednesday in Lagos paying tribute

    Renewed Hope -Gen.Nwachukwu optimistic Tinubu will deliver

    Tinubu
    By Adeyemi Adeleye
    Lagos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) A former Minister of Foreign Affairs,retired Maj.-Gen. Ike Nwachukwu , says he is optimistic that President Bola Tinubu will deliver on  his Renewed Hope Agenda to the people.

    Nwachukwu, one of the leaders of The Patriots, an eminent group of leaders of thought, spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lagos.

    He spoke when the Patriots visited the residence of late Chief MKO Abiola, the winner of the annulled June 12 1993 Presidential Election, to pay tribute on the occasion of the 2024 anniversary of June 12.

     

    The group, led by the former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nation, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, went to Abiola’s tomb to pray and  lay wreath.

    Speaking to NAN, Nwachukwu, who said that it was too early to pass comments on the administration of Tinubu, said with the support of the people, the President could deliver his promised hope.

    “He (Tinubu) came telling us that we should look for renewed hope, and I am holding him down to giving Nigerians that renewed hope.

    “With his background over the years as a democratic, I have no doubt in my mind that he should be able to do that with the support of  the people,” the retired military general said.

    Speaking on the 25th Anniversary of uninterrupted democracy in the country, Nwachukwu said that Nigerian democracy started well but unfortunately down the line, the nation missed the mark.

    According to him, Nigeria needs to facilitate a process to birth ta people’s constitution that will provide a platform for sustainable growth and development.

    Nwachukwu said: “That is why we are all asking today, give us a new constitution that we can call people’s constitution.

    “A constitution which every ethnic nationality would have a say in producing, based on the values we all share.

    “A constitution that will ensure that whoever gets into power at all levels -local government, state and federal – must holds those ideals and values, and stand in them.”

    Noting that the current democracy was faced with challenges , Nwachukwu said that the nation also needed  electoral reforms.

    “We must therefore be able to ensure we have an electoral process, handled by decent people who understand their responsibility to the people.

    “We need people who will ensure when people vote for X or Y, whoever they preferred should be pronounced the winner and the true representative of the people,” he said.

    He urged the people to make their representatives accountable to them.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    AYO/BHB

     

    Edited by Buhari Bolaji

  • LBS launches initiative, promotes best practices in hospitality sector

    LBS launches initiative, promotes best practices in hospitality sector
    Hospitality
    By Rukayat Moisemhe
    Lagos, June 12, 2024 (NAN)The Lagos Business School (LBS) has launched an  initiative geared towards promoting best practices and advancing standardisation within the hospitality sector.
    Dr Belinda Nwosu, faculty member, LBS, on Wednesday in Lagos, via a statement, said the initiative would also enhance innovation and drive customers’ experiences across  Nigeria’s hospitality value chain.
    Nwosu said the LBS had via a retail summit with theme:” Rethinking Standardisation in Hospitality Retail” taken significant steps to foster growth and development within Nigeria’s hospitality industry and across Africa.
    She noted that by addressing challenges facing the industry through the initiative, the LBS reaffirmed its commitment to delivering practical solutions for businesses.
    She urged stakeholders to collaborate by offering solutions to business challenges, providing market research data for informed decision-making, facilitating networking opportunities, and nurturing executive-level talent from Africa.
    “We need creative and adaptive thinking, and with this launch, the Lagos Business School demonstrates a commitment to the hospitality industry in Nigeria first of all and across Africa.
    “Our commitment is to walk with you and together find solutions to your business problems, and as far as discussions go, we have realised that there is a desperate need to raise the profile of engagement for hospitality businesses in our region,” she said.
    Prof. Chris Ogbechie, Dean, LBS, noted the  crucial need for standardisation as today’s businesses strive for competitive advantages through creating exceptional customer experiences.
    He emphasised the need to achieve consistency, quality as well as efficiency across every aspect of the hospitality value chain.
    “Standards play an integral role in fostering loyalty by offering unique service engagements essential not only within retail but also critical for delivering delightful services within hotels or any other type of accommodations that may be available.
    “Being competitive demands organisations’ capability to provide exceptional customer experiences consistently – but how do you scale this? Only through standardisation can you achieve this,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    ARM/SOA
    Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

  • Democracy Day: Forum demands bold policies for revolutionary youth development

    Youth

    By Perpetua Onuegbu

    Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Young Professional Forum (NYPF) has put forward a series of detailed recommendations for the National Youth Policy to pave the way for a more prosperous and inclusive future for Nigerian youth.

    The forum in a communique issued after its meeting and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, noted the crucial role a comprehensive policy reform can play in shaping a brighter future reform were call to action for lasting positive change.

    The proposed changes were carefully reviewed by some NYPF executive members, Chairperson Zaliha Lawal, Barrister Mayor Ndukaku, Dr Ekemini Udo and Media Consultant, Ere-ebi Agedah Imisi.

    The forum stated that the policy recommendations have been forwarded to the Ministry of Youth as the recommendations include
    “Education and Talent Development, STEM Education Enhancement and Early STEM Education”.

    Others recommendations were for Health and Well-being as well as Ensuring Participation and Inclusiveness.

    Highlighting the critical role of education and skills, the NYPF suggested a multipronged approach involving vocational training and education, aimed at elevating the status of vocational education to eliminate existing stigmas.

    The forum said that the approach would increase the number of highly skilled workers, transforming Nigeria from a consumer-driven nation to a manufacturing hub and innovation-led economy.

    “It will tackle youth unemployment by fostering entrepreneurship and providing incentives for businesses that hire young people.

    “It will emulate successful aspects of the Chinese economic model to build a robust manufacturing sector.”

    For the STEM Education Enhancement, it said it would position Nigeria as a global leader in innovation and technology through scholarships and Incentives.

    “Early STEM education will encourage activities at secondary school levels and foster early interest and proficiency in STEM subjects to develop essential skills and passion from a young age.

    “It will also help implement successful strategies from China and Singapore to build a strong STEM foundation, while the health and Well-being emphasises the importance of health and well-being among young Nigerians, proposing.

    “It will enhance Physical and Mental Health and address the rising rates of drug and substance abuse among the youth.

    “It will enhance access to comprehensive healthcare services to ensure a supportive environment for overall well-being.

    “To ensure participation and inclusiveness, governments must promote participation, inclusiveness, and equitable opportunities for all youth.

    “Furthermore, the National Youth Policy should guide leaders to consciously address barriers to meaningful youth engagement in civil and political affairs,”

    This, the forum said would also enhance opportunities for the constructive involvement of all youth in community and social development, political processes and governance.

    The NYPF is a leading organisation dedicated to empowering young professionals across Nigeria through advocacy, policy recommendations, and capacity-building initiatives. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    PUO/EMAF
    ========
    Edited by Emmanuel Afonne