Talented Nigerian music scene has been graced with yet another masterpiece from the talented singer-songwriter, T.I Blaze titled “Chop Am “.
The song “Chop Am” is a remarkable record that showcases T.I BLAZE‘s unique style and it serves as the 7th track on his latest project, “Dangerous Wavy Baby“.
In addition to T.I BLAZE‘s exceptional performance on the track, the production quality of “Chop Am” is top-notch.
The song was produced by the talented music producer, Dibs.
Dibs expertise in music production is evident in the way the song has been crafted.
The beats are well-arranged, and the overall sound quality is excellent, further enhancing the listening experience.
The Nigerian music industry is once again set to be thrilled by the exceptional talent of singer-songwriter, T.I Blaze has he recently released a new song titled “Take Off” featuring Blaqbonez.
This impressive record holds a special place in T.I Blaze’s discography as it is the 1st track off his latest project, “Dangerous Wavy Baby“.
This project is a collection of 6 tracks that showcase the artist’s versatility and his ability to create music that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Adding to the allure of the song “Take Off” is the feature from Award-winning music star, BlaqBonez.
His contribution to the song is nothing short of amazing, as he delivers a verse that complements T.I BLAZE ‘s style perfectly.
The production of the song “Take Off” was handled by the talented music producers, ATG, Dibs and Niphkeys.
Talented Nigerian singer-songwriter and multi-talented artist, T.I Blaze, has released a new single title “On D Low” featuring Mr Eazi.
The song “On D Low” is the 3rd track on his latest project, “Dangerous Wavy Baby“. This body of work consists of 6 tracks that showcase T.I Blaze ‘s versatility and creativity as an artist.
Each track offers something different, ensuring that there is something for everyone in this project.
Adding to the allure of the song is the vocal contribution from talented superstar, Mr Eazi. His unique voice and style add a layer of depth to the song, making it even more appealing to listeners.
The collaboration between these two artists is a testament to their shared passion for creating great music.
To ensure the highest quality, T.I BLAZE enlisted the help of Niphkeys for the production of the song.
He returned to Nigeria in the early 1990s and was employed by Mobil Nigeria as an accountant, before entering politics as a Lagos West senatorial candidate in 1992 under the banner of the Social Democratic Party.
After dictator Sani Abacha dissolved the Senate in 1993, Tinubu became an activist campaigning for the return of democracy as a part of the National Democratic Coalition movement.
Four years later, he won re-election to a second term.
After leaving office in 2007, he played a key role in the formation of the All-Progressives Congress in 2013. In 2023, he was elected president of Nigeria.
Background
Tinubu was born in Lagos into the merchant family of Abibatu Mogaji, the Ìyál’ọ́jà of Lagos. He is generally accepted in reliable sources to have been born in 1952;[2] this year of birth is sometimes disputed by political opponents, who argue that he is much older. Some reliable sources note that his age has not been verified.[3][4]
Education
Tinubu attended St. John’s Primary School, Aroloya, Lagos before proceeding to Children Home School in Ibadan.
In the run-up to the 1999 elections, Bola Tinubu was a protégé of Alliance for Democracy (AD) leaders Abraham Adesanya and Ayo Adebanjo. He went on to win the AD primaries for the Lagos State governorship elections in defeating Funsho Williams and Wahab Dosunmu, a former Minister of Works and Housing.
In January 1999, he stood for the position of Governor of Lagos State on the AD ticket and was elected governor.
Governor of Lagos State (1999–2007)
During his 8 years in government, Tinubu initiated new road construction, required to meet the needs of the fast-growing population of the state.
Tinubu, alongside a new deputy governor, Femi Pedro, won re-election into office as governor in April 2003.
He was involved in a struggle with the Olusegun Obasanjo-controlled federal government over whether Lagos State had the right to create new Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) to meet the needs of its large population.
The controversy led to the federal government seizing funds meant for local councils in the state.
During the latter part of his term in office, he was engaged in continuous clashes with PDP powers such as Adeseye Ogunlewe, a former LagosState senator who had become minister of works, and Bode George, the southwest chairman of the PDP.
In 2006, Tinubu attempted to persuade the then-vice president of Nigeria Atiku Abubakar to become the head of his party, the Action Congress (AC).
Abubakar who was a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), had recently fallen out with President Olusegun Obasanjo over Abubakar’s ambition to succeed Obasanjo as president.
Tinubu offered Abubakar the chance to switch parties and join the AC, offering him his party’s presidential candidacy, with the condition that he, Tinubu, would be Atiku Abubakar’s running mate.
Atiku declined the proposition and, having switched to the AC, chose a running mate from the Southeast, Senator Ben Obi.
Although Atiku ran for office on Tinubu’s platform in the election, the PDP still won, in a landslide.
Relations between Tinubu and deputy governor Femi Pedro became increasingly tense after Pedro declared his intention to run for the gubernatorial elections.
Pedro competed to become the AC candidate for governor in the 2007 elections but withdrew his name on the eve of the party nomination.
He defected to the Labour Party while still keeping his position as deputy governor.
Tinubu’s tenure as Lagos State Governor ended on 29 May 2007, when his successor Babatunde Fashola of the Action Congress took office.
Pre-presidency (2007–2023)
2007 general election
In 2009, following the landslide victory of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the April 2007 elections, Tinubu became involved in negotiations to bring together the fragmented opposition parties into a “mega-party” capable of challenging the then ruling PDP.
In March 2009, there were reports that a plot had been identified to assassinate Tinubu.
In 2014, Tinubu supported former military head of state General Muhammadu Buhari, leader of the CPC faction of the APC – who commanded widespread following in Northern Nigeria, and had previously contested in the 2003, 2007 and 2011 presidential elections as the CPC presidential candidate.
Tinubu initially wanted to become Buhari’s vice presidential candidate but later conceded for Yemi Osibanjo, his ally and former commissioner of justice.
In 2015, Buhari rode the APC to victory, ending the 16-year rule of the PDP, and marking the first time an incumbent Nigerian president lost to an opposition candidate.
Tinubu went on to play an important role in the Buhari administration, supporting government policies and holding onto the internal party reins, in lieu of his long-held rumored presidential aspiration.
In 2019, he supported Buhari’s re-election campaign defeating the PDP candidate Atiku Abubakar.
In 2020, following an internal party crisis which led to the removal of Tinubu ally and party chairman Adams Oshiomole, it is believed the move was to scuttle Tinubu’s presidential prospects ahead of 2023.
2023 presidential election
On 10 January 2022, Tinubu made his formal announcement of candidacy for president.
On 8 June 2022, Tinubu won the party convention vote of the ruling APC, scoring 1,271, to defeat Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and Rotimi Amaechi who scored 235 and 316 respectively. [
His runner-up Atiku Abubakar of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) polled 6,984,520 votes. Labour Party’s Peter Obi had 6,101,533 votes to come third.
His government having cleared the legal hurdles of the opposition following the March election is generally accepted unopposed and has international legitimacy.
Several heads of state and government attended the swearing-in ceremony.
Tinubu in his inaugural address promulgated the removal of the government subsidy on fuel.
The statement in his inaugural address caused initial panic buy and an overnight increase in price at fuel pump stations in Nigeria.
The national labor union NLC called for nationwide strike and protests over the increase in fuel price, which was later called off amidst ongoing negotiations with government representatives.
The government subsidy on fuel consumption has caused a hemorrhage on the Nigerian public purse for decades and the removal was lauded as a positive development by the World Bank for the Nigerian economy.
Emefiele’s suspension was the second ever a head of the apex bank in its history was removed by a Nigerian president.
Emefiele was arrested by Nigerian secret police SSS in Lagos attempting to flee the country to Benin.
The suspension was viewed as a positive development Emefiele as a conservative banker ascribed to the old school of propping up the Nigerian naira.
Emefiele was replaced by one of his more economical liberal deputies Folashodun Adebisi as acting governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria in a statement by the presidency “sequel to the ongoing investigation of his office and the planned reforms in the financial sector of the economy”.
The suspension and subsequent arrest of Emefiele by secret police on charges of terrorism financing is seen as not far removed from his ideological leanings and politicizing of the apex bank with his initiatives in office such as arbitrage under the Buhari administration and a currency redesign of the Nigerian naira.
However, some observers have noted the role of politics in Emefiele’s suspension amid a clandestine raise in government debt borrowing ceiling from 5% to 15% through ways and means on the eve of the inauguration of President Tinubu.
On the back of his suspension the apex bank five days later on 14 June removed all foreign exchange trading restrictions and allowed the national currency to fall to its lowest ever on the market.
The move though not unprecedented signaled what was expected after the suspension.
Tinubu’s financial reforms has been seen as surpassing the 1986 SAP regime in a bid to drastically overhaul the Nigerian economy and government finances since the return of democracy two decades ago.
On 15 June, President Tinubu inaugurated the national economic council chaired by Vice President Shettima.
The Council is mandated to advise the President on economic affairs and is composed of the governor of the central bank and all state governors of the federation.
Tinubu’s close associate investment banker Wale Edun is the monetary policy czar.
The appointment of Nuhu Ribadu, a former police officer, was viewed as a radical turn from the military establishment which has long dominated the state security apparatus of Nigeria.
President Tinubu purged the leadership of the entire armed and paramilitary forces on 19 June retiring in the process over one hundred and fifty major generals.
The direction of state security under Tinubu is expected to be led by civilian control of the military under the Office of the National Security Adviser, a statutory constitutional body established in 1993.
Tinubu embarked on his first foreign visit as Nigerian president to Paris on 21 June to attend a global financial summit held at Palais Boignart from 22 to 24 June.
He left Paris for London on a “private visit” where he met with his predecessor Muhammadu Buhari.
Tinubu despite drastic changes in fiscal and monetary policies has yet to constitute his cabinet.
He has made calls for a coalition government in order to bring opposition leaders under him. [
A constitutional amendment passed by his predecessor made provisions for the President to appoint Ministers within the first sixty days in office.
Tinubu dissolved the boards of all ministries, departments and agencies of Nigeria on 19 June.
Having spent one month in office and with the conclusion of parliamentary leadership elections Tinubu is constrained by law to send ministerial nominations to the Senate for hearing before July 29.
Ideology and public image
Tinubu has throughout his political career espoused a comprehensive political and economic platform.
He views the state as a positive advocate for the public welfare and its intervention in Nigerian society as necessary to ensure equality, justice, and social harmony.
His presidency and economic policies known as Tinubunomics is expected to be a politico-ideological departure from Buharism, albeit, most international economists are yet to ascertain the nature of this departure in economic terms although reforms in his first month in office has shown a departure from the previous administration.
The World Bank and IMF have pointed out the need for the incoming government to establish macro-structural adjustments on the scale of the late 1980s reform to re-herald the Nigerian economy amidst a global slowdown.
Tinubunomics has been outlined in a book he co-authored with Brian Browne, an American consul general in Lagos.
Tinubu has been widely perceived as the “Godfather of Lagos”.
His role in pulling the strings of the mega city-state was exposed in The Lion of Bourdillon, a 2015 documentary film highlighting Tinubu’s political and financial grip on the city-state. Tinubu filed a ₦150 billion libel suit against the producers, Africa Independent Television (AIT).
The documentary ceased airing on 6 March 2015. He has attempted to strongarm the political process, including in December 2009, when it was reported that Fashola and Tinubu had fallen out over the issue of Fashola’s re-election as Governor of Lagos in 2011, with Tinubu preferring the commissioner for environment, Muiz Banire.
A similar conflict took place in 2015 over Fashola’s successor, Akinwunmi Ambode, pitting Fashola against Tinubu, who threw his full weight behind Ambode.
Ambode succeeded Fashola, was ousted by Tinubu and replaced by incumbent Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Allegations of corruption
In 1993, his assets were frozen by the United States government as a result of a court case asserting that the American government had “probable cause” to believe Tinubu’s American bank accounts held the proceeds of heroin dealing.
He settled with the U.S. government and forfeited about $460,000 later that year.
Court documents and later reporting on the case suggested he worked in league with two Chicago heroin dealers.
In April 2007, after the general elections, but before the governor elect Babatunde Fashola had taken office, the Federal Government brought Tinubu before the Code of Conduct Bureau for trial over the alleged illegal operation of 16 separate foreign accounts.
Tinubu said the transaction was straightforward and profitable to the state, with no intermediaries involved.
The Federal Government rejected a request by Britain to release evidence needed for further investigation and prosecution of the three Nigerian ex-governors in a London court.
During the 2019 election, a bullion van was seen entering Tinubu’s residence on Bourdillion Road in Ikoyi, which caused him to later exclaim: “I keep money anywhere I want.”
They have 3 children, Zainab Abisola Tinubu, Habibat Tinubu and Olayinka Tinubu.
He fathered 3 children from previous relationships, Kazeem Olajide Tinubu (12 October 1974 – 31 October 2017), Folashade Tinubu (born 17 June 1976) and Oluwaseyi Tinubu (born 13 October 1985), whose mother is rumored to be the former air hostess and prophetess Bunmi Oshonike.
Tinubu’s mother, Abibatu Mogaji, died on 15 June 2013 at the age of 96.
On 31 October 2017, his son, Jide Tinubu, died in London.
^GOBERT EMERSON Jr., TAIWO AMODU and DURO ADESEKO (11 April 2009). “Mega party, mega confusion”. Daily Sun. Archived from the original on 15 April 2009. Retrieved 24 December 2009.
Talented Nigerian Talented singer and songwriter, T.I Blaze, has finally launched his highly anticipated project titled “Dangerous Wavy Baby”.
This new release is undoubtedly a testament to his musical prowess, as it features a collection of 7 captivating tracks that are sure to leave fans and music enthusiasts alike in awe.
In this exciting musical journey, T.I Blaze collaborates with an impressive lineup of artists, including Mr Eazi, Lojay,Balloranking, and Magixx.
Their collective talents and unique styles promise an extraordinary listening experience for all.
With his mesmerizing vocals, ingenious songwriting, and infectious melodies, T.I Blaze has undoubtedly crafted a project that will resonate with music lovers from all walks of life.
Canada has introduced a new immigration opportunity targeted at carpenters, plumbers, and welders from various countries, including Nigeria.
The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) made the announcement in a statement on Tuesday, unveiling a streamlined immigration pathway specifically tailored for skilled workers specializing in carpentry, plumbing, and welding.
According to Marc Miller, the minister of IRCC, addressing the shortage of skilled trades workers in the country is of utmost importance.
Therefore, providing assistance to the construction sector in recruiting and retaining the skilled workforce it requires has become a crucial aspect of the solution.
This recent category-based selection is an acknowledgement of the essential role these skilled trades workers play in Canada, and the government looks forward to welcoming more of these talented individuals into the country.
Previously, in May, Sean Fraser, the former minister of IRCC, had announced changes to Express Entry through category-based selection. This new process aimed to welcome skilled newcomers with work experience in priority jobs as permanent residents.
Express Entry is an online system utilized by the Canadian government to grant permanent residence to skilled workers.
It serves as the main pathway for managing skilled worker applications for Canadian immigration.
According to lawyers at First Immigration Law Firm based in Canada, there are several ways for professionals and workers to qualify for a Canadian immigration permanent resident visa.
The most prominent option is through Express Entry, specifically the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Canadian Experience Class. Meeting the requirements of these programs makes applicants eligible for entry into Canada under the Express Entry system.
A young man behind the Burkina Faso’s coup that has been making headlines for some days now.
Ibrahim Traore is the current President of Burkina Faso. Born Jan 1988, he is currently the youngest head of state in the world.
He went to the university of Ouagadougou where he graduated with Honours.
He joined the Burkina Faso army in 2009 where he quickly rose in ranks.
He was sent to Morocco for anti-aircraft training.
He subsequently came back and was put in charge of an infantry in Kaya.
He was involved in the Mali war and also helped to suppress the jihadist uprising in Burkina Faso.
Traoré was part of the group of army officers that supported the January 2022 Burkina Faso coup d’état and brought the Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration military junta to power.
This came after a large section of young Army soldiers became dissatisfied with the government and the performance of Paul-henri Sandaogo Damiba.
Following the coup, Ibrahim Traore assumed the office the supreme head of state, supreme head of armed forces.
In 2023 the government of Traore expelled the France forces that was assisting in the Fight against Jihadist insurgency.
Traore is for the idea to Unite Mali and quinea and if the three happens to hit an agreement it will be the largest territory ruled by military Junta.
During the recent visit to Russia where they met Putin, Traore expressed dissatisfaction with the way in which the African continent is still poor despite having all the resources enough to make us a superpower continent.
The Executive Secretary, Yobe Primary Health Care Board, Dr Babagana Machina, has said the breastfeeding reduces the risk of breast cancer and maternal obesity.
Machina stated this in Potiskum on Wednesday at the inauguration of the 2023 World Breastfeeding Week.
According to him, six months of exclusive breastfeeding minimizes childhood infections and increases the intelligence of babies.
He noted that breast milk is a unique nutritional source that cannot be replaced by any other food, including well-formulated infant formula.
Machina, therefore, called on critical stakeholders to assist in promoting exclusive breastfeeding for the healthy development of babies.
In his remarks, Alhaji Abdullahi Jawa, Permanent Secretary of the state’s Ministry of Health, said the week-long event had the theme: “Enable Breastfeeding – making a difference for working parents”.
He expressed optimism that the event would foster the adoption of exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers.
Jawa also said that Gov. Mai Mala Buni had recently approved the expansion of free maternal neonatal and child health services to cover all pregnant women and under-five children.
The permanent secretary said the approval was part of efforts to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity in the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that highlights of the occasion included presentation of gifts to 11 women who exclusively breastfed their babies for six months.
Talented Ghanaian rapper and songwriter, Sarkodie dropped a new Hip-hop single tagged ‘Freaky & Naughty.’
On the rap debut record ‘Freaky & Naughty’ Sarkodie takes his artistry and craft to new heights utilizing his prowess and steak to create a profound musical escapade.
This serves as a follow-up to the Hip Hop Award winner’s previously released single ‘Try Me ‘following the controversial story surrounding him and Ghanaian actress, Yvonne Nelson.
Talented Nigerian award-winning singer, Kizz Daniel has released his anticipated project titled, “Maverick” album.
The album consists of 20 solid tracks with a guest appearance from the likes of Tekno, Jonny Drille, Chike, Blaqbonez, YoungJonn, YemiAlade, Becky G, and others.
However, this serves as KizzDaniel’s sophomore album and he has proven his musical dexterities once more.
The “Maverick” album is one of the projects to look out for this weekend.
With production assistance from DJ Coublon, Reward Beatz, Killertune, MOG Beatz, and others.
STARBOY TV and Entertainment presents a brand-new track titled “9-5” performed by Wizkid and The Cavemen, with production by the talented hitmaker P.Prime.
Get ready to enjoy an exclusive jam session from Wizkid and The Cavemen in this thrilling song “9-5.”
As anticipation builds for the “More Love, Less Ego” tour at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on the 29th of July 2023, where one of the biggest Afrobeat shows of the year will take place in London, Wizkid treats fans to this appetizing new tune as a taste of what’s to come.
Don’t miss out on the excitement and be sure to catch the performance at the stadium for an unforgettable experience!
Talented Nigerian singer-songwriter and talented artist, Adekunle Gold, has released an impressive single titled “Tio Baby “.
This highly anticipated song showcases Adekunle Gold ‘s unique musical style and exceptional talent.
The song “Tio Baby” holds a special place and the 4th on Adekunle Gold ‘s latest project, “Tequila Ever After “.
This project consists of 18 tracks, with “Tio Baby” being the fourth track. Each song on the album showcases Adekunle Gold ‘versatility and ability to create captivating music across different genres.
The production of “Tio Baby” is top-notch, thanks to the talented music producers Jonah Christian, Seyifunmi and Mannywellz.
Talented Nigerian singer-songwriter and talented artist, Adekunle Gold, has released a captivating new song titled “All My Life “.
The song effortlessly blends elements of Afrobeat and contemporary R&B, creating a truly mesmerizing sound that is bound to resonate with fans and music lovers alike.
“All My Life” is the 18th and outro track on Adekunle Gold ‘s highly anticipated album, “Tequila Ever After “.
This remarkable body of work consists of 18 tracks in total, each showcasing Adekunle Gold ‘s versatility as an artist and his commitment to delivering top-notch music.
“All My Life” is credited to the talented music producers TheElements and Kel-P.
Their expertise and creativity shine through in the flawless production of the song, elevating it to another level of musical excellence.
Talented Nigerian singer-songwriter and talented artist, Kizz Daniel, has just released an impressive single titled “Easy to Love” featuring Chike.
“Easy To Love” is the 14th track off Kizz Daniel ‘s highly anticipated album, “Maverick “. This project consists of a total of 20 tracks, each showcasing Kizz Daniel ‘s versatility and creativity as an artist.
Adding to the allure of the song, Kizz Daniel enlisted the vocal talents of superstar Chike whose contribution add an extra layer of depth and emotion to the track, making it even more captivating for listeners.
The production credits for “Easy to Love” go to the talented music producer DeeYasoo.
Talented Nigerian singer-songwriter, Kizz Daniel, is back with a new track titled “One Dollar” featuring Blaqbonez.
This talented artist has consistently impressed fans with his unique sound and captivating lyrics, and this latest release is no exception.
The song is taken from Kizz Daniel‘s latest project, “Maverick“. This body of work showcases the artist’s versatility and creativity, and “One Dollar” is a standout track from the album.
The song features a vocal contribution from the incredibly talented superstar, BlaqBonez, adding an extra layer of depth and excitement to the already impressive record.
Produced by the gifted music producer, BlaiseBeatz, “One Dollar” boasts a flawless production that perfectly complementsKizz Daniel‘s smooth vocals and Blaqbonez‘s dynamic performance.
The combination of their talents creates a truly memorable listening experience.
In an effort to mitigate the impact of fuel subsidy removal, the Lagos State Government has implemented a 50 percent reduction in transportation costs for all state-owned transport systems.
Additionally, the government has made a commitment to distribute food supplies to the vulnerable population in the state.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu addressed the public during a press briefing at the Lagos House, Ikeja, on Monday, emphasizing the state’s determination to introduce these measures as palliatives to alleviate the hardships caused by the removal of fuel subsidies for citizens.
The governor stated that the 50 percent reduction in transportation expenses will be effective starting from Wednesday, August 2, 2023.
He added that modalities have also been put in place by the informal transportation sector, especially the yellow buses, to slash their charges by 25 percent.
“We’ve had extensive conversations with all of the stakeholders in our transport system, both formal and informal modes of transportation, and we have come to a conclusion, which the state government will be supporting.
“Immediately from Wednesday, all public transportations that are being controlled by LAMATA, all of the high capacity buses, will be plying all the routes of Lagos at 50 per cent discount, and all commuters that will be plying these routes will start enjoying a 50 per cent rebate on the transport fares that are currently being charged on all of these routes,” the governor said.
He added, “For the informal buses, they are also going to make a pronouncement today, and I can say to you that we have agreed with them that they will be doing about 25 per cent reduction on their buses — all of the yellow buses that we have on the streets.”
Sanwo-Olu also said more staff buses had been procured for workers of the state civil service to make commuting to and from work easier for them.
In a nationwide broadcast on Monday, July 31, President Tinubu urged Nigerians to exercise patience with his administration, assuring them that better days are ahead.
Acknowledging the significant financial burden caused by the removal of subsidies, Tinubu emphasized that the country could no longer sustain such costs.
He outlined key areas of focus in his administration, including economic reforms, support for the manufacturing sector, micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, and a forthcoming salary review for civil servants.
Removal of Fuel Subsidy
For several years, I have consistently maintained the position that the fuel subsidy had to go.
This once beneficial measure had outlived its utility.
The subsidy cost us trillions of Naira yearly.
Such a vast sum of money would have been better spent on public transportation, healthcare, schools, housing and even national security.
Instead, it was being funneled into the deep pockets and lavish bank accounts of a select group of individuals.
This group had amassed so much wealth and power that they became a serious threat to the fairness of our economy and the integrity of our democratic governance.
To be blunt, Nigeria could never become the society it was intended to be as long as such small, powerful yet unelected groups hold enormous influence over our political economy and the institutions that govern it.
The whims of the few should never hold dominant sway over the hopes and aspirations of the many.
If we are to be a democracy, the people and not the power of money must be sovereign.
The preceding administration saw this looming danger as well.
Indeed, it made no provision in the 2023 Appropriations for subsidy after June this year. Removal of this once helpful device that had transformed into a millstone around the country’s neck had become inevitable.
Multiple Exchange Rate System
Also, the multiple exchange rate system that had been established became nothing but a highway of currency speculation.
It diverted money that should have been used to create jobs, build factories and businesses for millions of people.
Our national wealth was doled on favorable terms to a handful of people who have been made filthy rich simply by moving money from one hand to another.
This too was extremely unfair. It also compounded the threat that the illicit and mass accumulation of money posed to the future of our democratic system and its economy.
Economic Reforms
I had promised to reform the economy for the long-term good by fighting the major imbalances that had plagued our economy.
Ending the subsidy and the preferential exchange rate swam was key to this fight.
This fight is to define the fate and future of our nation.
Much is in the balance.
Thus, the defects in our economy immensely profited a tiny elite, the elite of the elite you might call them.
As we moved to fight the flaws in the economy, the people who grow rich from them predictably will fight back through every means necessary.
Our economy is going through a tough patch and you are being hurt by it.
The cost of fuel has gone up. Food and other prices have followed it. Households and businesses struggle.
Things seem anxious and uncertain.
I understand the hardship you face.
I wish there were other ways.
But there is not.
If there were, I would have taken that route as I came here to help not hurt the people and nation that I love.
What I can offer is immediately stop reducing the burden our current economic situation has imposed on all of us, most especially on businesses, the working class and the most vulnerable among us.
Already, the Federal Government is working closely with states and local governments to implement interventions that will cushion the pains of our people across socio-economic brackets.
Support for Manufacturing Sector, and Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Earlier this month, I signed 4 Executive Orders in keeping with my electoral promise to address unfriendly fiscal policies and multiple taxes that are stifling the business environment.
These Executive Orders on suspension and deferred commencement of some taxes will provide the necessary buffers and headroom for businesses in the manufacturing sector to continue to thrive and expand.
To strengthen the manufacturing sector, and increase its capacity to expand and create good-paying jobs, we are going to spend N75 billion between July 2023 and March 2024.
Our objective is to fund 75 enterprises with great potential to kick-start sustainable economic growth, accelerate structural transformation and improve productivity.
Each of the 75 manufacturing enterprises will be able to access N1 billion credit at 9% per annum with a maximum of 60 months of repayment for long-term loans and 12 months for working capital.
Our administration recognizes the importance of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises and the informal sector as drivers of growth.
We are going to energize this very important sector with N125 billion.
Out of the sum, we will spend N50 billion on a Conditional Grant to 1 million Nano businesses between July 2023 and March 2024.
Our target is to give N50,000 each to 1,300 Nano business owners in each of the 774 local governments across the country.
Ultimately, this program will further drive financial inclusion by onboarding beneficiaries into the formal banking system.
In like manner, we will fund 100,000 MSMEs and start-ups with N75 billion.
Under this scheme, each enterprise promoter will be able to get between N500,000 to N1 million at 9% interest per annum and a repayment period of 36 months.
Food Security Initiatives
To further ensure that prices of food items remain affordable, we have had a multi-stakeholder engagement with various farmers’ associations and operators within the agricultural value chain.
In the short and immediate terms, we will ensure staple foods are available and affordable. To this end, I have ordered the release of 200,000 Metric Tonnes of grains from strategic reserves to farmers across the 36 states and FCT to moderate prices.
We are also providing 225,000 metric tonnes of fertilizer, seedlings and other inputs to farmers who are committed to our food security agenda.
Our plan to support the cultivation of 500,000 hectares of farmland and all-year-round farming practice remains on course.
To be specific, N200 billion out of the N500 billion approved by the National Assembly will be disbursed as follows:
Our administration will invest N50 billion each to cultivate 150,000 hectares of rice and maize.
N50 billion each will also be earmarked to cultivate 100,000 hectares of wheat and cassava.
This expansive agricultural program will be implemented targeting small-holder farmers and leveraging large-scale private sector players in the Agric business with strong performance records.
Infrastructure Support Fund:
In this regard, the expertise of Development Finance Institutions, commercial banks and microfinance banks will be tapped into to develop a viable and appropriate transaction structure for all stakeholders.
Fellow Nigerians, I made a solemn pledge to work for you.
How to improve your welfare and living condition is of paramount importance to me and it’s the only thing that keeps me up day and night.
It is in light of this that I approved the Infrastructure Support Fund for the States.
This new Infrastructure Fund will enable States to intervene and invest in critical areas and bring relief to many of the pain points as well as revamp our decaying healthcare and educational Infrastructure.
The fund will also bring improvements to rural access roads to ease the evacuation of farm produce to markets.
With the fund, our states will become more competitive and on a stronger financial footing to deliver economic prosperity to Nigerians.
Part of our program is to roll out buses across the states and local governments for mass transit at a much more affordable rate.
We have made provision to invest N100 billion between July 2023 and March to acquire 3000 units of 20-seater CNG-fueled buses.
These buses will be shared with major transportation companies in the states using the intensity of travel per capita.
Participating transport companies will be able to access credit under this facility at 9% per annum with 60 months repayment period.
In the same vein, we are also working in collaboration with the Labor unions to introduce a new national minimum wage for workers.
Salary Review for Civil Servants:
I want to tell our workers this: your salary review is coming.
Once we agree on the new minimum wage and general upward review, we will make budget provisions for it for immediate implementation.
I want to use this opportunity to salute many private employers in the Organized Private Sector who have already implemented general salary reviews for employees.
A tragic incident was shared by a Nigerian lady involving a doctor who passed away just two weeks before completing her housemanship in a hospital in Lagos.
The sad story suggested that the doctor’s death was a result of alleged poor management and negligence in the hospital, where the elevator she was in fell from the 10th floor to the ground.
Sharing the story, she wrote
“A doctor who had just 2 weeks to complete her housemanship just died in general hospital (Odan, Lagos island) due to poor management and negligence!!!”
“The elevator she was in, fell from 10th floor to the ground! Video was so painful to watch.
The lady’s post included screenshot evidence to support her claims.
Later, she retweeted a post showing the aftermath of the incident where the unnamed doctor had unfortunately lost her life.
Concerned individuals who read her post and watched the video took to the comment page to air their views.
Peter Obi, the candidate of the Labour Party, had his mobile phone reported stolen by an unidentified individual/s while he was at a Nigerian court premises.
A video circulating on Twitter captured the moment he was seen searching for his phones and informing his running mate, Datti Baba Ahmed, that he had left them at a specific location.
As of the current time, he has not been able to recover his phone. Many Nigerians have shared their opinions on the incident and Peter Obi’s situation.
Former Minister of Aviation and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Femi Fani-Kayode has warned the military governments of Niger Republic , Mali and Burkina Faso not to underestimate the fighting force of the Nigerian military.
Information Nigeria reports that his reaction stems on the heels of threats by the military governments of Mali and Burkina Faso that will join forces against “any attack on the Niger Republic by the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS.
According to Fani-Kayode, Nigeria might have challenges and issues in the country but when at war against foreign armies on foreign soil it is never been overwhelmed or defeated.
Reacting via Twitter on Tuesday, he described the threat as “a pitiful and nonsensical threat from two pitiful and nonsensical unelected governments.”
“The military governments of Mali and Burkina Faso have said that “any attack on Niger Republic by ECOWAS will be regarded as an act of war.
“This is a pitiful and nonsensical threat from two pitiful and nonsensical unelected Governments headed by tin pot military dictators.
“The biggest mistake that the mutinous rebels and military usurpers of Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and their allies can ever make is to underestimate the fighting force and indomitable spirit of the Nigerian military and the sense of solidarity that we as a people kindle, muster and cultivate when confronted in the field of battle by a foreign foe.
“We may have challenges and issues in our country but when at war against foreign armies on foreign soil we have NEVER been overwhelmed or defeated. History proves that.
“We are slow to anger but irresistible in battle and if the Burkinabe, Malian or the Nigerien Army test our will we shall bring them to their knees and teach them the lesson of their lives.
“Threatening great Nigeria with war is no small matter and, if carried out, will prove costly for them.
“Simply put we would crush them like maggots under our feet and send them back to the stone ages where they belong,” he tweeted.
The Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal has reserved judgment on the petition filed by the candidate of the LabourParty (LP), Peter Obi, seeking nullification of the declaration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as winner of the February 25 presidential election.
Obi who came third in the election and his party had filed a joint petition in March challenging the outcome of the February 25 poll.
They are asking the court to nullify the victory of BolaTinubu, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In their final written address dated July 20, the petitioners insisted that Tinubu and Vice President KashimShettima were not qualified to contest the poll.
The petitioners had said Tinubu was not eligible to run for the office of president due to the forfeiture of $460,000 in the US and his failure to secure 25 percent of votes cast in the federal capital territory (FCT).
NAIJAHITZ reports that the petitioners closed their case on June 23 after calling 13 witnesses.
At the court session on Tuesday, the petitioners as well as the respondents adopted their final written addresses
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) legal team led by Abubakar Mahmoud prayed the court to dismiss the petition.
“We humbly submit that this petition is lacking in merit and should be dismissed,” Mahmoud said.
Meanwhile, Wole Olanipekun, counsel to Tinubu and Shettima, as well as Lateef Fagbemi, representative of the APC, also prayed the court to dismiss the petitioners’ case.
The five-member panel of justices led my Harunna Tsammani reserved judgment adding that a date would be communicated to parties.
Yesterday morning, an incident occurred on an Air Peace flight from Abuja to Port Harcourt involving a passenger named Mr. Vitalis Nwabuzor, who was wearing a blue safari outfit.
In a video, it can be seen that he took another passenger’s computer bag from the overhead luggage compartment during the flight and removed the money contained in a brown envelope.
After taking the money, Mr. Nwabuzor relocated the computer bag to a different compartment and then moved to an unoccupied seat at the back of the aircraft.
Despite the announcement for passengers to disembark line by line, starting from the front, he managed to be among the first few to leave the plane.
Fortunately, he was apprehended, and the stolen money was recovered from him. The authorities found various currencies in different denominations on his person.
This incident serves as a warning to those traveling on local commercial flights in Nigeria to be cautious of potential thieves like Mr. Vitalis Nwabuzor.
Popular Nigerian singer-songwriter, Kizz Daniel, returns with a brand new track, titled “Show You Off” featuring Pryme.
The song “Show You Off” is an amazing record that should definitely be on your Playlist. With its groovy beats and captivating vocals, it is bound to become a fan favorite.
KizzDaniel once again proves his versatility as an artist, delivering a track that is both refreshing and addictive.
The impressive record serves as the 5th track off Kizz Daniel‘s highly anticipated album, “Maverick“.
This project, consisting of 20 tracks, showcases Kizz Daniel‘s growth as an artist and his ability to create music that resonates with a wide audience.
Adding to the allure of the song, Kizz Daniel enlisted the vocal talents of superstar Pryme.
Their collaboration adds an extra layer of depth and excitement to the track, making it even more enjoyable to listen to.
The production of “Show You Off” is top-notch, thanks to the skilled work of music producer BlaiseBeatz.
Popular Nigerian singer-songwriter and performer, Kizz Daniel, has released a brand new track titled “Never“.
This highly anticipated song is definitely one that should be added to your Playlist. With his unique style and captivating vocals, KizzDaniel continues to impress his fans with his musical talent.
“Never” serves as 16th track on Kizz Daniel‘s highly anticipated album, “Maverick“.
The production credits for the song “Never” go to the incredibly talented music producer, AyZed.
With his exceptional skills, AyZed has created a captivating sound that perfectly complements Kizz Daniel‘s vocals and lyrics.
Nigerian singer-songwriter and music star, Kizz Daniel, has once again captivated his fans with a brand new single titled “Side Chick” featuring DJ Big N, Yemi Alade & Young Jonn.
This highly anticipated track is a must-have addition to your Playlist.
As the 19th track on his incredible 20-track body of work Project, “Maverick“.
What makes this track even more special, is the introduction of industry’s finest artists. Award-winning artists DJ Big N, Yemi Alade and Young Jonn all contribute their unique styles and hot verses to create an unforgettable collaboration.
The production of “Side Chick” is top-notch, thanks to the talented duo MOG and BlaiseBeatz.
Nigerian singer-songwriter and talented artist, Adekunle Gold, has released a captivating new song titled “Make It Easy” featuring Coco Jones.
This track is an absolute gem that deserves a spot on everyone’s Playlist.
“Make It Easy” serves as the impressive 10th track on Adekunle Gold‘s latest project, “Tequila Ever After“, which consists of a total of 18 tracks. This body of work showcases the artist’s incredible talent and versatility.
What makes this song even more special is the addition of award-winning music star, Coco Jones, who delivers an amazing verse that perfectly complements Adekunle Gold‘s vocals. Their collaboration adds an extra layer of depth and excitement to the track.
The production of “Make It Easy” is top-notch, thanks to the talented music producers Michaël Brun and Kel-P.
Nigerian singer-songwriter and talented artist, Adekunle Gold, has released a captivating new song titled “Soro“.
The song “Soro” is part of Adekunle Gold‘s latest project “Tequila Ever After“.
Behind the scenes, the production credits for “Soro” go to the incredibly talented music producers, Kel-P and Seyifunmi. Their expertise and skillful production have contributed to the overall excellence of this track, making it a true masterpiece.