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Police arrest suspected kidnapper, rescue 18-month-old victim

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Police arrest suspected kidnapper, rescue 18-month-old victim

The police have arrested a 22-year-old suspected kidnapper,  Zakariyya Muhammad, of Sabuwar Gandu Kwarin Barka Quarters, Kano State, sixteen hours after the kidnap incident.

Confirming the arrest in a press statement, on Tuesday, the Police Command’s spokesman, SP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, said: “On 04/07/2024 at about 4 pm, a report was received from a resident of Sabuwar Gandu Kwarin Barka Quarters, Kano that he received a phone call from an unknown person, who claimed to have kidnapped his 2½-year-old daughter, Amina and demanded N2m ransom for her release.”

“On receipt of the report, the Commissioner of Police, Kano State Command, CP Salman Dogo Garba, mobilised a team of the Anti-kidnapping Squad, led by SP Aliyu Muhammad Auwal, with a directive to rescue the victim within 24 hours, and to ensure the arrest of the suspect.”

“Consequently, the squad swung into action, and with sustained efforts, coupled with intelligence-led technical operations, it led to the arrest of the suspect, Zakariyya Muhammad, ‘M’, aged 22 years, of Sabuwar Gandu Kwarin Barka Quarters, Kano on 05/07/2024 by 8 am, i.e. 16 hours after the kidnap incident.”

According to the statement, the suspect, who coincidentally is a neighbour to the victim, confessed to having singlehandedly committed the offence and led the detectives to where she held the victim hostage.

“Subsequently, the victim was rescued unhurt in an isolated area in their neighbourhood and rushed to the Murtala Muhammed Specialist Hospital, Kano, where she was examined, certified healthy, and discharged.”

However, the CP assured the public that this despicable act would not be tolerated, promising that the command would continue to leverage all its available assets to forestall all criminal activities and bring the perpetrators to justice.

While appreciating the law-abiding people of the state, the CP urged the community to remain vigilant and cooperate with the police in preventing and reporting criminal activities to help create a safer environment for all.

“In case of emergencies, Kano State Police Command can be contacted through the following mobile phone numbers; 08032419754, 08123821575, 09029292926, or login to the NPF Rescue Me Application available in the Play Store, or through the following Online Media Platforms:

Facebook: Kano State Police Command

Twitter: Kano State Police Command (@KanoPoliceNG)

Instagram: Kano State Police Command

Tiktok: Kano State Police Command.”

Police recruitment confusion as PSC denies rumours, warns of imposters

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Police recruitment confusion as PSC denies rumours, warns of imposters

The Police Service Commission (PSC) has moved to clear the air regarding ongoing confusion surrounding the recently concluded police recruitment exercise. In a statement issued Tuesday, the PSC addressed several false claims circulating online.
Debunking False Information:
The commission explicitly denied issuing statements on:
• Reviewing the list of successful candidates.
• Inviting successful candidates to a newly launched portal
Addressing Misinformation:
The PSC further debunked the following rumors:
• A requirement for candidates to print updated invitation slips.
• A set training commencement date (July 22nd, 2024).
The PSC attributed these falsehoods to “imposters” and urged candidates to disregard them.
Calling for Patience:
The statement advises candidates to be patient and wait for an official announcement from the PSC regarding the recruitment process.
Read Also: NPAN demands urgent action from Nigerian govt over abducted Kaduna journalists, families
Warning Against Interference:
The PSC issued a stern warning to those spreading misinformation and attempting to undermine the recruitment process. The statement emphasized legal consequences for anyone caught interfering.
The statement reads, “The commission wishes to clarify that it has at no time issued any statement on (i) review of the list of successful candidates or (ii) inviting successful candidates to check their application on the newly launched portal.
“The commission has not at any time advised candidates to print any updated invitation slip and proceed to the Police Training Colleges. It has also not announced any date for the training programme, and the Monday, July 22nd 2024, date, bandied in social media, is just the imagination of the impostors.
“The commission wishes to advise candidates to be patient and await its official statement on the just concluded recruitment exercise.
“The PSC also warns these unrelenting impostors to steer clear of its activities, especially the recruitment exercise, and warns that anybody caught undermining the exercise will be dealt with in accordance with the law.”
Unresolved Issue:
While the PSC’s statement clarifies the specific rumors, it doesn’t address the larger issue of the delay in announcing a confirmed list of successful candidates and subsequent training details. This lack of information continues to create uncertainty for applicants.
Moving Forward:
Candidates should remain vigilant and rely solely on official PSC communications to avoid falling prey to misinformation. Transparency from the PSC regarding the next steps in the recruitment process would be crucial in alleviating ongoing anxiety amongst applicants.
The post Police recruitment confusion as PSC denies rumours, warns of imposters appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.

Using oppressive institution to witch-hunt fellow Nigerian unacceptable – Effiong warns actress Toyin Abraham

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Using oppressive institution to witch-hunt fellow Nigerian unacceptable – Effiong warns actress Toyin Abraham

A human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, has urged Nollywood actress Toyin Abraham, to immediately secure the release of now arrested X influencer, Big Ayo.
This is even as the legal expert explained that defamation of character is different from cyberstalking.
Effiong warned Toyin that using the apparatus of a corrupt and oppressive state institution to witch-hunt a fellow Nigerian for insulting her is unacceptable.
Big Ayo had alleged that the actress arrested his mother.
Toyin in her reply stated that she didn’t arrest Big Ayo’s mother but merely reported a case of cybercrime as a concerned citizen.
However, Effiong in a post on his X handle on Wednesday, urged Toyin not to be deceived by the police, as most of the so-called cybercrime charges filed because of insults on the internet will be thrown out in court.
According to him, whatever the grievances may be, Toyin as a public figure and celebrity, using the apparatus of a corrupt and oppressive state institution to witch-hunt a fellow Nigerian for insulting her is unacceptable.
He said: “Good morning, @toyin_abraham1
“I am urging you to immediately secure the release of Ayo. Defamation of character is different from cyberstalking. It seems many people do not know this. Don’t let the police deceive you. Most of these so-called cybercrime charges that are being filed because of insults on the internet will be thrown out in court.
“Just on Monday, the Federal High Court in Abuja discharged Agba Jalingo on charges of cyberstalking. Jalingo stood trial for two years because his organization, Cross River Watch, published an article alleging that a relative of the immediate past governor of Cross River State, Ben Ayade, had hired an impersonator to write Law School examination for her.
“The police was very confident that they had a case, but they lost like they mostly do in similar cases. If you feel that you’ve been defamed, approach the civil court.
“Whatever your grievances may be, you are a public figure and a celebrity. Using the apparatus of a corrupt and oppressive State institution to witch-hunt a fellow Nigerian for insulting you is unacceptable.
“I have seen that you also made unpleasant and derogatory comments towards Ayo. How do you think that will play out in the court if the gentleman is arraigned? Are you sure you’re ready to go though the rigors of the court system?
“I hope you’ll listen to the voice of reason before this gets out of hands. I read that the mother of Ayo was also targeted in the process of the police arresting him, if that is the case, you may have just bought yourself a serious lawsuit because arrest in lieu is illegal under the law.
“Do not listen to those cheering you up, even Buhari’s cyberstalking charge against Sowore did not yield anything.
“Do the right thing now.”
Using oppressive institution to witch-hunt fellow Nigerian unacceptable – Effiong warns actress Toyin Abraham

Nigerian drug baron flees South Africa, arrested in Imo mansion

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Nigerian drug baron flees South Africa, arrested in Imo mansion

A drug baron on the wanted list of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, identified as Joachin Mbonu, has been arrested.

Mbonu was arrested by operatives of the NDLEA in his village mansion in Imo State on July 5.

A statement on Tuesday by the agency’s spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, said Mbonu was arrested along with his associate.

He stated that Mbonu belongs to a drug cartel behind the production of methamphetamine.

Babafemi said, “A major drug cartel behind the production and distribution of deadly psychoactive substance, methamphetamine, popularly called ‘Mkpuru mmiri’ has been taken down by operatives of the NDLEA following the arrest of the leader of the syndicate, 42-year-old Joachin Chikaodi Mbonu and his associate in his mansion tucked in his Umuomi village, Uzogba-Ezenomi autonomous community, Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State.”

The cartel, with operational bases in Imo and Rivers states, became a target of the agency following intelligence indicating it was responsible for the distribution of substantial quantities of methamphetamine in the South-East, South-South and other parts of the country.

During the operation, Babafemi said operatives recovered 419.99 grams of methamphetamine, 750 grams of iodine, and a pump action gun with four cartridges, among others.

He said, “After weeks of surveillance, officers of a special operations unit of the agency on Friday, July 5, 2024, tracked and traced the drug lord to his village mansion in Imo State, where he was caught with a member of his cartel, Kenneth Chibuike Ofoegbu, 34, with different quantities of methamphetamine, its precursor chemicals, a pump action gun and cartridges recovered.

“Exhibits recovered from the house include 419.99 grams of methamphetamine; 750 grams of iodine, a precursor chemical for meth; 500 grams of sodium bicarbonate, a precursor chemical for meth; two electronic weighing scales and a pump action gun with four cartridges.”

Babafemi said the operatives also raided residences of Mbonu’s associates in Rivers and Imo states, recovering several illicit drugs.

He said, “The operatives moved swiftly to another of Mbonu’s hideouts located at 11 Redemption Avenue, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where they recovered additional exhibits: 750 grams of processed sodium bicarbonate; 170 grams of plain sodium bicarbonate and 75 grams of meth.

“Another raid in the home of one of Mbonu’s associates, Odoemenam Pedro Chinedu, currently at large, at Njaba LGA, Imo State, led to the recovery of another pump action gun with 25 cartridges, among other items. While the kingpin cools his heels in custody, two of his mansions in Imo State have been marked for possible forfeiture to the Federal Government.”

Babafemi stated that Mbonu had escaped from South Africa, where he lived for years, and mastered the art of cooking methamphetamine after he came under investigation for drug dealings.

He added that upon his return to Nigeria, he continued the criminal trade by setting up clandestine laboratories in remote villages to shield his nefarious activities.

TUC insists on N250,000 benchmark as minimum wage

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TUC insists on N250,000 benchmark as minimum wage

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) is urging for expedited negotiations on a new minimum wage in Nigeria.
Festus Osifo, TUC Secretary General, made this call on Tuesday, when he addressed the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Women Commission’s annual convention, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.
Lessons from 2019:
Osifo acknowledged the lengthy process surrounding the previous minimum wage increase. Negotiations starting in 2017 only saw a new minimum wage implemented in 2019. He assured the audience that unions were working to avoid a similar delay.
Fast-Tracking the Process:
The TUC began negotiations in January 2024 and submitted their proposed minimum wage in June. However, President Buhari opted for broader consultation with governors, local governments, and the private sector.
Negotiations Behind the Scenes:
Osifo stressed that the apparent media silence surrounding the negotiations doesn’t indicate inactivity. Instead, unions are engaged in “internal work” to ensure the new minimum wage proposal caters to “the poorest of the poor.” This behind-the-scenes work aims to present a comprehensive bill to the National Assembly soon.
Read Also: Presidency reassures Nigerians on Samoa Agreement, denies LGBTQ+ rights concerns
N250,000 Benchmark Remains:
He reiterated the TUC’s stance on an ideal minimum wage of N250,000, a figure he said remains their benchmark despite ongoing negotiations and consultations.
Uncertain Timeline:
While Osifo expresses optimism about a swift resolution, the timeline for a new minimum wage remains unclear. The consultation process initiated by the President could lengthen the negotiation phase.
Focus on the Vulnerable:
The TUC emphasizes their commitment to securing a minimum wage that uplifts the lives of Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens. Their focus on internal work suggests a data-driven approach to support this goal within the proposed legislation.
His statement reads, “The minimum wage negotiations cannot be dead. The 2019 minimum wage (that has expired) took about two years to see the light of day. We started the negotiations in 2017.
“We promised you when we started in January (this year) that we will ensure this one is fast – tracked for us not to be in the conundrum that we were in 2019 which took two years.
“So where we are today, we submitted the divergent position in June, when we did that you know clearly that Mr President came out to say that he wanted to consult across board which is the governors, Local Government chairmen, organised private sector and labour, so we are doing some level of reach-out and conversations.
“So that what will be submitted to the National Assembly will actually be a minimum wage that will cater for the poorest of the poor, so for the fact that in the media we are not shouting, we are doing some level of internal work so that this bill will be submitted in earnest soon. We still insist on the N250,000 benchmark as ideal minimum wage.”
The post TUC insists on N250,000 benchmark as minimum wage appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.

Choosing The Right Vape Juice In 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

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Choosing The Right Vape Juice In 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Vaping has evolved significantly over the past decade, and 2024 is no exception. With an ever-expanding variety of vape juices available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This article will guide you through the process of selecting the perfect vape juice for disposable vapes in 2024, considering factors such as flavor, nicotine strength, PG/VG ratio, and brand reputation. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced vaper, this comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Vape Juice Components

Before diving into the selection process, it’s essential to understand the basic components of vape juice:

1. Propylene Glycol

PG is a thin, odorless liquid that provides a throat hit similar to smoking traditional cigarettes. It’s also a great carrier for flavorings, making it a key component in many vape juices.

2. Vegetable Glycerin

VG is a thicker, sweeter liquid that produces large vapor clouds. It’s less harsh on the throat and is ideal for those who prefer smooth hits.

3. Flavorings

Vape juices come in a wide range of flavors, from fruits and desserts to menthol and tobacco. These flavors are food-grade and safe for inhalation.

4. Nicotine

Nicotine is an optional component in vape juices. It comes in various strengths, allowing users to customize their experience.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Vape Juice

1. Flavor Preference

The flavor is arguably the most important factor when selecting a vape juice. In 2024, there are countless flavors to choose from, including:

  • Fruity Flavors: Strawberry, mango, apple, and mixed berries.
  • Dessert Flavors: Vanilla custard, chocolate, and caramel.
  • Tobacco Flavors: Classic tobacco, menthol, and Cuban cigars.
  • Beverage Flavors: Coffee, cola, and energy drinks.

Try sampling different flavors to find what suits your palate best. Many vape shops offer sampler packs or testers for this purpose.

2. Nicotine Strength

Nicotine strength in vape juice ranges from 0 mg (nicotine-free) to 50 mg (for high-strength nicotine salts). Here’s a general guideline:

  • 0 mg: For those who enjoy vaping without nicotine.
  • 3 mg to 6 mg: Suitable for light smokers or those who are gradually reducing their nicotine intake.
  • 12 mg to 18 mg: Ideal for moderate smokers.
  • 24 mg to 50 mg: For heavy smokers or those who prefer a strong nicotine hit.

Choose a strength that matches your current smoking habits or your desired vaping experience.

3. PG/VG Ratio

The PG/VG ratio affects the throat hit and vapor production. Common ratios include:

  • 50/50: Balanced throat hit and vapor production.
  • 70/30: More throat hit, less vapor. Ideal for flavor chasers.
  • 30/70: Less throat hit, more vapor. Perfect for cloud chasers.

Determine your preference for throat hit and vapor production to choose the right PG/VG ratio.

4. Brand Reputation

With the increasing number of vape juice brands in 2024, it’s crucial to select a reputable one. Look for brands that:

  • Conduct Third-Party Testing: Ensures the safety and quality of their products.
  • Have Positive Reviews: Check online reviews and forums for customer feedback.
  • Offer Transparency: Provide clear information about their ingredients and manufacturing processes.

5. Price and Value

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in high-quality vape juice can enhance your vaping experience and ensure safety. Compare prices and consider the value for money, especially if you’re vaping regularly.

Trends in Vape Juice for 2024

1. Nicotine Salts

Nicotine salts provide a smoother throat hit even at higher nicotine strengths. They’re ideal for those who need a quick nicotine fix without the harshness of freebase nicotine.

2. CBD and THC Vape Juices

With the growing acceptance of cannabis products, CBD and THC vape juices are becoming more popular. These offer therapeutic benefits and are available in various flavors and strengths.

3. Organic and Natural Ingredients

Health-conscious vapers are increasingly opting for vape juices made with organic and natural ingredients. These products avoid synthetic chemicals and artificial flavorings.

4. Customizable Vape Juice Kits

Some brands offer DIY kits that allow users to mix their vape juice. This is perfect for those who want complete control over flavor, nicotine strength, and PG/VG ratio.

Tips for First-Time Buyers

1. Start with a Small Quantity

If you’re new to vaping or trying a new flavor, start with a small bottle. This allows you to test the vape juice without committing to a large quantity.

2. Visit Local Vape Shops

Local vape shops often have knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the right product. They may also offer samples so you can try them before you buy.

3. Check for Allergen Information

If you have allergies, check the ingredient list for potential allergens. Some vape juices may contain ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions.

4. Read Reviews and Ratings

Online reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the quality and flavor of vape juices. Look for feedback from other vapers to make an informed decision.

Safety Considerations

1. Store Vape Juice Properly

Store your vape juice in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality. Keep it out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

2. Avoid Expired Products

Check the expiration date before using vape juice. Using expired products can affect the flavor and safety of your vaping experience.

3. Be Aware of Your Body’s Response

Pay attention to how your body reacts to different vape juices. If you experience any adverse effects, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

Choosing the right vape juice in 2024 involves considering various factors such as flavor, nicotine strength, PG/VG ratio, brand reputation, and price. With a wide range of options available, it’s essential to take the time to find a product that suits your preferences and needs. By staying informed about the latest trends and following the tips provided in this guide, you can enhance your vaping experience and enjoy it safely.

 

 

To tackle food scarcity lawmakers to distribute FG’s 2,700 fertiliser trucks to states

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To tackle food scarcity lawmakers to distribute FG’s 2,700 fertiliser trucks to states

The Federal Government plans to send 60 trucks of fertiliser to each of the states of the federation as a way of tackling the food crisis in the country.
This was disclosed by the Senate sequel to a motion moved by Senator Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West and co-sponsored by Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South at plenary.
The motion was titled: “Urgent Need to Address Food Insecurity and Market Exploitation of Consumables In Nigeria.”
The Federal Lawmakers encouraged the Federal Government to expedite effort in the fertiliser distribution.
Thus, each of the 109 senators will receive two trucks of fertiliser for distribution to farmers in their constituents, while the 360 members of the House of Representatives will get one truck each to distribute in their constituencies.
Karimi noted that in the last few months, the price of goods and household consumables had been on an abysmal rise in the country, leading to a high rate of inflation, weakened buying power, and general worsening of living conditions of the vast majority of Nigerians.
He averred that the latest data released by Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics showed that “food inflation in the country skyrocketed to 40.66 per cent on a year-on-year basis, a significant increase from the 24.82 per cent recorded in May 2023.
“The current market price of food items such as beans, maize, rice paddy, yam, tomatoes, and onions, which initially rose by about 40 per cent after the removal of petroleum subsidy, has now increased to over 100 – 300 per cent without any attributable reason for the increase in prices.
READ ALSO: CBN boosts fight against food insecurity with N100bn, 2m bags of fertilisers
“Although insecurity in food-producing regions, bad roads, increase in the cost of transportation attributable to the removal of fuel subsidy and depreciation of the value of naira are possible factors that have contributed to the increase in price of food items, household commodities, and consumables; the percentage of increase in cost of transportation and some other factors listed above is significantly less than the percentage increase in the current prices of goods all ever the country.
“There is a need to be more pragmatic about addressing food insecurity, curbing herder-farmer crises, kidnapping for ransom, and terrorism, and ensure the development of a viable National Commodity Board to regulate the price of grains and ensure the elimination of artificial contributions to food and commodity inflation in Nigeria.”
In his contribution, Senator Ndume lamented that this was the first time Nigeria was listed as one of the countries battling food insecurity.
Ndume said: “Currently there are four countries, including Sudan and some others, that are facing very serious insecurity. Nigeria is added to this list this year by the International Rescue Committee as one of the spots for food insecurity action against hunger. World Food Programme also indicated that over 32 million people are expected to face a critical hunger crisis and emerging level between and August.
“I don’t know about some other colleagues, but here in the North, we have started seeing it visibly. This is the first time we are experiencing this level of hunger. It’s the first time Nigeria is being listed as one of the countries with food insecurity.”
The post To tackle food scarcity lawmakers to distribute FG’s 2,700 fertiliser trucks to states appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.

Access Bank plans free fibroid surgery for 100 women

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Access Bank plans free fibroid surgery for 100 women

Access Bank’s Retail Banking Team will be conducting free fibroid surgery for 100 women across the country.

A statement by the group on Tuesday said it was part of the activities lined up for its Project 111 second Fibroid Awareness Campaign across the country.

Project 111 is a fibroid-focused initiative to treat one woman at a time, change her family, and by extension, generations to follow.

Uterine leiomyomas or fibroids are benign growths that can be extremely large and cause substantial discomfort, including bright red vaginal bleeding, constipation, bloating, and severe pelvic and low back pain that interferes with women’s daily functioning and child-bearing capability.

It read, “The campaign, which runs all through the month of July 2024, will kick start with a webinar aimed at creating awareness of fibroid among the female populace. And it will be spearheaded by dedicated team members of the bank’s retail group committed to seeing the success of the initiative, against all odds.

“The initiative comes on the heels of the general lack of awareness on the part of women as highlighted in key statistics that 70-80% of women will develop fibroid at some point in their lifetime, but only 38% were aware of the available treatment. These statistics emphasize the importance of Project 111, which focuses on creating awareness and support for women who struggle with the issues around fibroid and its effects.”

Deputy Managing Director of Retail, Chizoma Okoli, said Access Bank believed that its responsibility extends beyond banking, adding that the bank was dedicated to the well-being of its customers and communities.

“This campaign is a testament to our commitment to supporting women’s health and ensuring they have the information and resources they need to lead healthy lives.

“Project 111 was officially launched in 2022 when we provided more than 100 free fibroid surgeries in five geopolitical zones to directly touch over 4,000 lives while creating a ripple effect of positive change with over 16,000 impacted lives.

“This year, we are raising the bar of this social responsibility, targeting 100,000 women, providing 500 women with free diagnostic tests, and aiding 100 women in need of surgeries.

“We have a dedicated website, which provides articles on fibroids, information on partner hospitals, as well as up-to-date information for individuals about the initiative,” Okoli concluded.

Group Head, Consumer Banking, Njideka Esomeju, said, “As part of our kick-off activities to flag off the second Fibroid campaign, we will be having free Fibroid screenings and community health talks across 20 states. We will also have a webinar to listen to and address women affected by Fibroids and other related health issues.

“When we launched in 2022, we had a webinar addressing women affected by fibroids and in efforts to be at the forefront of public support for women’s health in Nigeria, we began the ‘Wear White Campaign’ in July last year during the Fibroid Awareness Month. In this pilot phase, the awareness and education campaign reached 17,266 women across 33 countries, with 156 women given access to proper diagnosis, assessment, and treatment recommendations.”

One of the beneficiaries of the health initiative Hannatu Botsha, shared her testimony.

In her words,” I have come back with my mouth full of gratitude, I can’t thank this Retail team enough. I came across the free fibroid surgery in 2022 and was reluctant to apply because I thought it was for customers only, it took me days to make up my mind and give it a trial. I got a call from Oyindamola Oyebola (one of the staff in the dedicated team)on the 9th of February 2024 to ask if I was still interested in the surgery since she sent an email I did not respond to.

“I saw that call as a sign from God because I was bleeding and having pains, plus feeling movements in my abdomen. I went to the hospital and got all the requirements from them, and after a month, the doctor called me to come for an all-expense surgery by the Access Bank Retail team.

“Surgery was done on 29th March, and I came out victorious and clean after all the scary gist I heard about fibroid surgery.”

NPAN demands urgent action from Nigerian govt over abducted Kaduna journalists, families

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NPAN demands urgent action from Nigerian govt over abducted Kaduna journalists, families

The Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN) has called on the Federal Government to take immediate action to secure the release of two Kaduna-based journalists and their families who were abducted over the weekend.
According to NPAN, Abdulgafar Alabelewe and AbdulRaheem Aodu, journalists working in Kaduna, were abducted alongside their families by bandits in a late-night raid on their homes. While details remain unclear, one family member reported the attackers to be heavily armed and shooting indiscriminately.
In a statement released on Wednesday, NPAN President Kabiru Yusuf described the abduction as a “condemnable event” and called on the government to “deploy all necessary security assets at its disposal” to ensure the safe return of the journalists and their families.
Yusuf said, “The Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria is concerned over the safety of Messers Abdulgafar Alabelewe and Mr. AbdulRaheem Abdu, the Kaduna state’s correspondents of The Nation and Blueprint newspapers, respectively, who were abducted last weekend.
READ ALSO:Nigerian journalist cries out, alleges threat to life over reports on Kaduna conflicts
“More worrying is the prolonged silence from their abductors, who seized the journalists along with members of their families, including wives and children. The trauma induced on both their biological and professional families by this condemnable event, is better imagined.
“We call on the Federal Government to ensure the safe return of the journalists and their families, by deploying all the necessary security assets at its disposal.”
The abduction has raised concerns about the safety of journalists operating in Nigeria, particularly in areas with high levels of banditry and violence. NPAN’s statement emphasizes the chilling effect such incidents can have on press freedom and the vital role journalists play in society.
NPAN’s demand for swift government action reflects the urgency of the situation. The families of the abducted individuals are undoubtedly facing immense distress, and time is critical to securing their safe release.
The post NPAN demands urgent action from Nigerian govt over abducted Kaduna journalists, families appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.

Indiscriminate dissolution of institutions’ governing boards illegal

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Indiscriminate dissolution of institutions’ governing boards illegal

The Committee of Pro-Chancellors of State-Owned Universities has urged stakeholders within the university system to collaborate in addressing challenges facing the sector.

Chairman of COPSUN, Senator Joshua Lidani, made this statement in Lagos on Tuesday during the opening ceremony of the seventh biennial conference of the Committee of Pro-Chancellors of State-Owned Universities in Nigeria.

The conference theme was ‘Effective University Governance: Role of Stakeholders.’

Lidani, who is also the Pro-Chancellor of Gombe State University, revealed that the theme covers various governance issues within the university system.

He mentioned several challenges currently affecting the university and tertiary education sectors, such as corrupt practices, impersonation, irregular exam centres, inadequate funding, and the proliferation of universities.

Additionally, he expressed concerns about the discriminatory and premature dissolution of governing councils and boards of tertiary educational institutions, along with delays in their reconstitution.

“The indiscriminate and premature dissolution of governing councils and boards of tertiary educational institutions, coupled with delays in their reconstitution, not only constitute illegal acts but also create significant administrative vacuums that lead to various anomalies. The incessant strike actions by ASUU and other labour unions have had profound consequences on stability, quality, and standards. The proliferation of universities and inadequate funding further exacerbate these challenges.

“While this conference alone may not fully resolve these issues, it serves to raise public awareness about the threats posed to good governance, standards, and quality within the tertiary educational system. It is imperative for stakeholders to recognize the depth of these problems. Failing to address them promptly could lead to the deterioration of our education system, undermining trust from other nations. The sooner we acknowledge and resolve these challenges, the better.

“I have no doubt that this conference can chart a path forward and provide guidance on how stakeholders can effectively contribute to enhancing educational standards in the country,” he said.

Chairman of the opening ceremony, and former Chief of Staff to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, encouraged the pro-chancellors to formulate action plans to elevate their institutions to the level of competence and attractiveness seen in federal and private universities.

Gambari said that by doing so, universities would retain top faculty and staff, thereby attracting the best students from the pool of eligible candidates.

“State-owned universities should strategically carve out specific niches that leverage their unique comparative advantages to enhance their position in the educational landscape.

“Successfully achieving this establishes a foundation for creating and gaining recognition for their brand,” he said.

The keynote address was given by Prof. Nuhu Yaqub.

Also speaking, Emeritus Prof. Julius Okojie emphasised the significance of emotional intelligence in leadership among Vice-Chancellors of universities.

He stated that effective university governance could be achieved through productive collaboration among stakeholders.

The chairman of the national planning committee was Prof. Deji Omole, while the chairman of the local planning committee, was the Vice-Chancellor, of Lagos State University, Ojo, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello.

The conference will end on July 12, 2024.

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