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Nigeria is seventh-fastest country in Sub-Saharan Africa for internet speed —Report

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Nigeria is the fifth fastest Sub-Saharan African country in internet speed, with an average download speed of 27.62 Mbps.

This is according to the 2024 Worldwide Broadband Speed Report, which was released by Cable.co.uk on Tuesday. According to internet speed tests conducted in 220 nations, Nigeria has improved its global speed ranking, rising from 133rd in 2023 to 132nd in 2024.

According to internet speed tests conducted across 220 countries, Nigeria climbed from 133rd in 2023 to 132nd in 2024.

Nigeria is placed seventh in Africa, following the top six countries, behind Réunion, South Africa, Eswatini, Rwanda, Mauritius, and Botswana.
READ ALSO: Amazon, Microsoft, Google under probe for alleged anticompetitive behaviour

Réunion has the highest average internet speed in Sub-Saharan Africa, at 63.29 Mbps, followed by South Africa at 42.42 Mbps.
According to the survey, Africa has the world’s second-lowest average internet speed, at 14.99 Mbps.
“50 countries were measured in the second-slowest region Sub-Saharan Africa, which averaged a download speed of 14.99Mbps overall. All but two of the countries found themselves in the slowest half of the league table.
“Going against the trend somewhat were Réunion (63.29Mbps, 75th), South Africa (42.42Mbps, 114th), and Eswatini (37.23Mbps, 120th). Meanwhile, Sudan (4.02Mbps, 223rd), Central African Republic (4.08Mbps, 222nd), and Ethiopia (4.45Mbps, 221st) all fell among the slowest ten countries in the world for average network speed,” the report noted.

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Dubai: $10k bank balance, N640k fee visa application requirements not from us – UAE

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The United Arab Emirates, UAE, has denied it exempted Nigerians from the customary visa application process.
TheCable exclusively reports that it contacted the UAE’s department of economy and tourism to confirm if obtaining a DVN was part of the resolutions reached between the Nigerian government and the UAE authorities before the suspension of the visa ban on Nigerian passport holders.
According to the report, the department said the DV hub website is not affiliated with the UAE government.
This comes after it emerged that Nigerian passport holders intending to visit UAE are now mandated to first obtain a Document Verification Number, DVN, before applying for visa.
Recall that it was announced on Monday that the UAE has lifted a three-year travel ban on Nigeria.
Following the announcement, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said that the resolution had conditions that were “mutually beneficial”.
Part of the conditions include obtaining a document verification number (DVN).
According to the DV hub, the process is a specialised service designed to authenticate and verify documentation essential for visa applications to the UAE.
The DVN costs a non-refundable N640,000 excluding VAT for each application. This does not include the visa fee.
In addition to obtaining a UAE visa, Nigerians are mandated to provide proof of a six-month bank statement with a minimum balance of $10,000.
Some Nigerians have frowned at the conditions, saying it is a ‘constructive ban’, while others expressed doubt about the authenticity of the DVN.
However, upon enquiry by TheCable, the UAE’s department of economy and tourism said the DV hub website is not affiliated with the UAE government.
When asked if Nigerians are required to make payments for documents’ verification, it referred the media outlet to Dubai’s general directorate of residency and foreigners’ affairs (GDRFAD).
The GDRFAD said, while explaining the process for a visa application: “You will need a personal photo and a copy of your passport which must not have less than six months validity.
“A tourist visa costs about 200-300 dirhams (N60,000 – 90,000) depending on the stay.
“You will also need a travel ticket and valid medical insurance within the UAE.”
Also, on the issue of the need to have a bank balance of $10,000, the directorate said: “We are not aware of such requirements. Make your visa applications through the GDRFAD.”
Meanwhile, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Eche Abu-Obe, told TheCable that clarification on the DVN would be sought and provided from the Ministry’s office in the Middle East.
Dubai: $10k bank balance, N640k fee visa application requirements not from us – UAE

Ekiti Govt endorses removal of 2 traditional chiefs for alleged insubordination

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The Ekiti State Government has empowered the Onigede of Igede Ekiti, Oba James Aladesuru, to remove two of his traditional chiefs and kingmakers for alleged insubordination and disrespect to his stool.
The government said the action became expedient, sequel to the recalcitrant postures of the two traditional chiefs and their vehement failure to amend their ways, after two previous suspensions slammed on them by Onigede-in-Council.
The chiefs are The Oluri of Odo Uri Quarters, Chief Sunday Alade and the Odofin of Odo Igede, Chief Emmanuel Adetona.
The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, handed down the verdict in Ado Ekiti on Wednesday while deliberating on a petition dated 15th April, 2024, and signed by Oba Aladesuru, seeking the leave of the government to remove the chiefs.
In the petition, Oba Aladesuru alleged that Chief Adetona, a high ranking kingmaker, was allegedly dividing Igede Ekiti by running a parallel administration and making desperate efforts to whittle down his influence and derail his control over the town.
The monarch alleged that he had no personal grudge against Chief Alade, but stated that the crisis stemmed from Alade’s outright rejection by the people of Uri quarters, who craved for his outright removal as their head.
Delivering the verdict, Afuye, according to a statement by her Special Assistant (Media), Victor Ogunje, said it was utterly disrespectful for the chiefs to have refused to mend fences with the monarch despite being given a nine-month window to reconcile and straighten all issues.
“Kabiyesi is the owner of the town, he knows exactly what he wants to make his town progress. It is sad that the two Chiefs have refused to do the needful despite being given nine months by government to appease the monarch and other aggrieved people.
“It is sad that you are behaving this way, you cant take our government for granted. Kabiyesi, go ahead and take whatever action you sought from us.
“No Chief has the right to be terrorising the traditional ruler or the entire town. It is the Kabiyesi that has the final say on this matter and we grant his request for the progress of his town,” Afuye stated.
Speaking at the parley, Oba Aladesuru, whose position was buttressed by Asa of Igede Ekiti, Chief Ola Ogunrinde, specifically accused Chief Adetona of stoking the ember of discord and instigating the kingmakers against him.
However, the two estranged chiefs denied the allegations, saying they were not holding any parallel administration as alleged by the monarch and other opposing chiefs.
They said efforts to reconcile with Onigede and other aggrieved chiefs had always been rebuffed. They called on the government to give them more time to seek forgiveness, but the plea was rejected.
While appreciating the state government on the matter, the Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Gbenga Oluwatuyi, assured that he will take all necessary steps to ensure peace and orderliness in the town.
Ekiti Govt endorses removal of 2 traditional chiefs for alleged insubordination

Obi urges supporters to donate to schools, hospitals, others ahead of 63rd birthday

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Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has appealed to Nigerians and well-wishers to donate gifts intended for his 63rd birthday celebration to schools, hospitals, and other worthy causes.

In a statement on his X.com handle on Wednesday, Obi disclosed that he has personally redirected resources meant for celebrations towards supporting critical areas such as health, education, and poverty alleviation.

Obi, who turns 63 on Friday, expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life, good health, and the opportunity to contribute to humanity.

He urged supporters to use the occasion to pray fervently for Nigeria and respective countries, and to present themselves to God for guidance and wisdom.

He wrote: “On Friday, July 19th, I will be celebrating my 63rd birthday. As usual, it is a time for personal reflection and thanksgiving to Almighty God, who has graciously granted me life, good health, and the opportunity to contribute to the betterment of humanity.

“I am humbled by the numerous well-wishers, both locally and internationally, who have already begun sending birthday wishes and organizing events in my honour.

“My appeal to my well-wishers and supporters, particularly in Nigeria and Africa, is to use this occasion to fervently pray for our nation and respective countries. Let us present ourselves, as political leaders, to God, so that He may touch our hearts to make sacrifices, utilize public resources for the greater good, and prioritize the needs of the poor and marginalized. Let us also provide better opportunities for our youth to thrive.

“To those organizing events and spending funds in celebration of my birthday, I kindly request that you redirect those resources towards supporting the needy, particularly those in hospitals and schools. Your contributions can help pay medical bills and school fees for the less privileged.

“I also appeal that all gifts intended for my birthday be donated to care homes, schools, and hospitals, which will greatly benefit from your generosity. I have therefore personally, redirected the resources I would have used for celebrations towards supporting critical areas such as health, education, and poverty alleviation.

” I firmly believe that through these sacrifices, God Almighty will grant your heartfelt wishes for me and answer our prayers. Thank you for your kind thoughts and prayers.

“I urge you all to remain faithful to Nigeria, our beloved country, and your respective nations.

“May God Almighty protect, bless, and prosper you and your families, and may He bless our dear nation.”

Katsina gov embarks on vacation, hands over to deputy

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The Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda will commence a one-month vacation from Thursday, July 18, 2024.

The deputy governor, Faruk Jobe, will assume Radda’s role during the period of 30 days.

The governor announced this during Wednesday’s joint executive and legislative meeting held at General Muhammadu Buhari House, Katsina.

The governor’s vacation was granted in response to a formal letter addressed to the Speaker, which was read before the session by the Assembly Chief Whip, Ibrahim Dikko.

In his application, Radda cited Section 190 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which empowers state houses of assembly to grant such requests from the executive arm. This constitutional adherence demonstrates the Governor’s commitment to due process and the rule of law.

While announcing the approval, the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Nasir Daura, who led other members of the Assembly to the joint meeting alongside chairmen of the 34 Local Government areas of the state, extended wishes for Allah’s guidance to Radda throughout the official vacation.

He stated, “It is noteworthy that this marks the second instance in Katsina State’s political history where a Governor has sought constitutional approval for a vacation and formal handover to the deputy. The first occurrence was during the late Governor Umaru Musa Yar’adua’s second tenure.”

Radda while announcing the vacation at the chamber, urged the people to accord the acting Governor support.

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Katsina governor transmits power to deputy, embarks on one-month vacation

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Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has officially signed into law the 2024 supplementary budget, totaling N27,399,967,898.
The development brings the state’s total budget for the year to N481,708,830,120.26.
The Speaker, Katsina State House of Assembly, Alhaji Nasir Yahya Daura, presented the approved budget to Governor Radda at the Katsina Government House on Wednesday.
During the ceremony, Radda commended the legislative arm for their swift and efficient handling of the budget.
He thanked the lawmakers for their unwavering support to the executive and their proactive approach to addressing the state’s challenges.
While addressing the audience, Radda revealed his intention to proceed on a one-month vacation and medical checkup commencing this Thursday, July 18, 2024.
Consequently, he formally transmitted power to his deputy, Mallam Faruq Lawal Jobe, who will assume the role of Acting Governor during his absence.
The Karsina governor directed the legislature, the executive, the judiciary, and chairmen of the 34 local government areas to extend their full support and cooperation to the deputy governor during his absence.
Katsina governor transmits power to deputy, embarks on one-month vacation

Tinubu seeks Senate approval to inject N6.2tn into 2024 budget

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President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday forwarded to the Senate for consideration and approval a request for the injection of N6.2 trillion into the N27.5 trillion 2024 budget.
Tinubu made the request via a letter read on the floor of the Senate by its President, Godswill Akpabio, during plenary, in Abuja.
The President specifically sought for withdrawal of N3.2 trillion from the Consolidated Revenue Fund, for capital expenditure.
In the second leg of the request, the President sought for withdrawal of another N3 trillion from the consolidated revenue fund for additional recurrent expenditure for the year ending on December 31, 2024.
READ ALSO: Senate dismisses reports on padding of 2024 budget
Tinubu in the letter also sought an Act to amend the Finance Act of 2023, to impose and charge windfall tax on banks and to provide for the administration of the tax and matters related thereto.
For expeditious consideration, the Senate had already listed the two requests on its Order Paper as Executive bills for consideration.
If the requested N6.2 trillion is injected into the N27.5 trillion 2024 budget, the budget size will increase to N33.7 trillion.
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Trump’s ex-aide, Peter Navarro, released from federal prison

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Donald Trump’s former White House trade advisor, Peter Navarro, was released from a Florida prison on Wednesday after serving a four-month sentence for contempt of Congress, according to the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

Navarro, 75, is expected to travel from Miami, where he was incarcerated in a federal prison, to Milwaukee to address the Republican National Convention. He is listed as one of the speakers at the gathering.

Navarro is the highest-ranking former member of the Trump administration to spend time behind bars for actions stemming from the former Republican president’s efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

Navarro was found guilty of two counts of contempt in September for refusing to comply with a subpoena to testify before the congressional panel that investigated the January 6, 2021 attack on the US Capitol by Trump supporters.

Navarro, a Harvard-educated economist, was the architect of the “Green Bay Sweep,” a plot to block Congress from certifying the 2020 election results.

Navarro refused to appear for a deposition before the House of Representatives committee that investigated the January 6 attack on Congress and declined to supply documents to the panel.

He was convicted of contempt by a federal jury in Washington after a two-day trial and claimed to be a victim of “partisan weaponization of our justice system.”

Navarro was the second close Trump ally to be convicted of contempt of Congress for defying subpoenas from the House committee.

Steve Bannon, one of the masterminds behind Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign, was also found guilty of contempt of Congress.

Bannon was sentenced to four months behind bars and began serving his sentence on July 1 at a federal prison in Connecticut.

Trump was scheduled to go on trial in Washington on March 4 on charges of conspiring to overturn the results of the election won by Democrat Joe Biden.

His trial was put on hold, however, until the Supreme Court heard Trump’s claim that as a former president, he is immune from criminal prosecution.

The court ruled earlier this month that a former president has broad immunity and Trump’s trial is unlikely to be held before the November election, if ever.

Trump, 78, was impeached for a second time by the House after the Capitol riot — he was charged with inciting an insurrection — but was acquitted by the Senate.

AFP

Israel ready to partner Nigerian govt, private sector, Envoy reveals

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The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, on Wednesday said that Israel is open to partner with the Federal Government and the private sector in areas that would be of mutual benefit to both countries.
Freeman noted that this was part of his country’s efforts to eradicate poverty and insecurity in the world.
Freeman stated this when he spoke at the Nigeria-Israel Business Forum’s Annual General meeting in Abuja.
Represented by the Consul of Israel in Nigeria, Inbar Lipman Garden, the Ambassador, said: “Having gone through the agenda for the day, I can attest to the fact that you have eloquent professionals and great speakers to address the issues of the day. Israel is proud to be partnering development of the Nigerian economic and business sector. We are ready to partner with the government and the private sectors in areas of mutual benefit to our countries.
“I implore you to take advantage of today’s presentations and join us in a quest to eradicate poverty and insecurity in the world. We look forward to receiving the dividends of this gathering, hoping it will improve the trade business between our countries.”
READ ALSO: Israeli forces rescue four hostages from Gaza after 246 days
Speaking virtually, the Nigerian Ambassador in Tel-Aviv, Agatha Afokelu, encouraged Nigerians to take advantage of the partnership offered by the Israeli government.
Afokelu said: “For me, again, it is a great opportunity this time. I urge Nigerians to use this advantage to think of products to export to Israel.
“Now that the door is open for us, I heard the speech of the representative of Ambassador Freeman, and she said that they are open to receive us, they are open for business. So I encourage all members to be ready. We are also ready to receive you, to make you feel at home, to make you happy.”
The president of the forum, PatGrace Owusi said the forum had helped to improve the economy of the two countries.
He said: “Over the years, by the grace of God, we have done so much. The forum has helped to improve the economic standards of the two countries. We are glad that Nigeria can fly to Israel today without heading because the Basra agreement was signed.
“We are glad that today, Nigerian people can go to Israel and do business because of the economic agreement that was signed. This was piloted by this organization.
“And today, we want to look into some vital issues. Israel needs Nigeria, and Nigeria needs Israel. Fish needs water and water needs fish. Without water, fish do not exist. And without fish, water does not exist. It exists with nothing.”
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IBB promises to champion call for reintroduction of Religious Knowledge in public schools

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Former Nigeria Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, IBB, has urged the Federal and state governments to reintroduce religious knowledge across public primary and secondary schools in the Nation to foster unity and love.
IBB stated this when he received the leadership of the Niger State Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, led by the state Chairman, Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Dauwa Yohanna who were on a visit to his hilltop mansion, Minna.
He noted that there is a need for Nigeria to go back to the teachings of religious knowledge in schools as the only way to change the society for the better.
The elder statesman who commended the state CAN for its effort in making sure good morals are inculcated in the youths expressed his readiness to champion the cause for a better society.
According to him: “I can see that you are making a lot of efforts in trying to bring back morals and religious knowledge in our society.
“This is the only way we can change our society, by teaching Christian Religious Knowledge, CRK, Islamic Religious Knowledge, IRK, and other moral subjects in public schools.
“It may not be easy, but I know it is what this country needs at the moment. We need to go back to what it used to be, especially in the teachings of religious knowledge.”
He continued, ” I am prepared and I will be ready anytime with any good cause you have. I will be ready to speak to the President (Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu) and the State Governor (Rt. Hon. Mohammed Umaru Bago) and I can assure you that something will be done both at national and state levels”.
Recall the call for the reintroduction of CRK to public schools in Niger State has been among the top topical issues by various stakeholders in the state.
Babangida added that in his growing days, religious knowledge was one factor that shaped the society, saying, then Christians and Muslims prayed and played together in love and unity in the 50s and 60s.
Earlier, the State CAN Chairman, Most Rev. Dr Bulus Dauwa Yohanna told IBB that the visit was to formally introduce themselves, and receive counsel from his wealth of experience as one who believes in the unity and peaceful coexistence of the country irrespective of tribe, religion or political affiliations.
Dr Yohanna, who is also the Catholic Bishop of the Kontagora Diocese stated that his leadership has made several efforts on the need for reintroduction of CRK in schools which include submitting proposals to the government and hoping for positive action.
The cleric said, ” Your Excellency sir, we are doing all we can to curtail any form of restiveness and to ensure we inculcate in our youths good morals for a better society. We strongly want to appeal to you to join us in the call for the reintroduction of Christian Religious Knowledge in the curriculum of all public primary and secondary schools across the state and the country.
IBB promises to champion call for reintroduction of Religious Knowledge in public schools