President Jonathan regime signs $1.2m contract with US PR firm to voice Boko Haram message

US public relations company Levick has signed a $1.2m contract with the Nigerian government to provide public affairs and communications counsel in the wake of the Boko Haram kidnappings.

Entering into a one-year agreement, Levick began work on June 16 with a brief that includes handling government affairs and communications with the goal of changing the international and local media narrative about Nigeria’s commitment to returning the more than 200 girls kidnapped by Boko Haram in April. In addition, Levick will also aid the government’s efforts to mobilise international support in fighting Boko Haram as part of the greater global war on terror.

Levick’s services will also include communicating the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan’s past, present, and future priorities to foster transparency, democracy and the rule of law throughout Nigeria. According to documents filed with the US Justice Department, the firm will serve as the government's international mouthpiece on this matter.

Mark Irion, Levick's president said: "We are focused on outcomes and authentic communications that build trust. We are approaching the work " tell the world what is really happening to recover these girls and fight the scourge of Boko Haram."

In addition, Levick will also work with human rights lawyer Jared Genser. Mr Genser, the managing director of legal services firm Perseus Strategies, is also the founder of Freedom Now, a group that works to free prisoners of conscience worldwide.

President Jonathan regime signs $1.2m contract with US PR firm to voice Boko Haram message

Posted by Sylvester No comments

US public relations company Levick has signed a $1.2m contract with the Nigerian government to provide public affairs and communications counsel in the wake of the Boko Haram kidnappings.

Entering into a one-year agreement, Levick began work on June 16 with a brief that includes handling government affairs and communications with the goal of changing the international and local media narrative about Nigeria’s commitment to returning the more than 200 girls kidnapped by Boko Haram in April. In addition, Levick will also aid the government’s efforts to mobilise international support in fighting Boko Haram as part of the greater global war on terror.

Levick’s services will also include communicating the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan’s past, present, and future priorities to foster transparency, democracy and the rule of law throughout Nigeria. According to documents filed with the US Justice Department, the firm will serve as the government's international mouthpiece on this matter.

Mark Irion, Levick's president said: "We are focused on outcomes and authentic communications that build trust. We are approaching the work " tell the world what is really happening to recover these girls and fight the scourge of Boko Haram."

In addition, Levick will also work with human rights lawyer Jared Genser. Mr Genser, the managing director of legal services firm Perseus Strategies, is also the founder of Freedom Now, a group that works to free prisoners of conscience worldwide.

ISIL declares new 'Islamic caliphate'

Rebels fighting in Iraq under ISIL banner announce creation of Islamic state, extending from Diyala to Syria's Aleppo.

he Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), the armed group fighting governments in Iraq and Syria, has announced the establishment of a "caliphate" straddling the two countries.

In an audio recording distributed online on Sunday, the ISIL declared its chief Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi as "the caliph" and "leader for Muslims everywhere".

Baghdadi is believed to be the leader of ISIL, which announced that it is now called "The Islamic State".




According to the statement, the new caliphate stretches from Iraq's Diyala province to Syria's Aleppo.

"The Shura (council) of the Islamic State met and discussed this issue (of the caliphate)... The Islamic State decided to establish an Islamic caliphate and to designate a caliph for the state of the Muslims," said ISIL spokesman Abu Mohammad al-Adnani.

"The words 'Iraq' and 'the Levant' have been removed from the name of the Islamic State in official papers and documents," Adnani said, describing the caliphate as "the dream in all the Muslims' hearts" and "the hope of all jihadists".

Al Jazeera's Imran Khan reporting from the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, said that a caliphate is effectively an Islamic Republic led by one leader, regardless of national boundaries.

With the announcement, the armed group is declaring that they are now legitimate, declaring the caliphate as the "true Muslim state", he said.

The announcement might bring up problems with other Sunni fighters in Iraq, who are fighting the central government of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, and not fighting for the caliphate, our correspondent said.

Tikrit offensive

The ISIL announcement came even as Iraq's army pressed ahead with its offensive to recapture the northern city of Tikrit.

Troops backed by helicopter gunships began an assault on Tikrit, the birthplace of former President Saddam Hussein, on Saturday, to try to take it back from ISIL fighters who have swept to within driving range of Baghdad.

The army sent in tanks and helicopters to battle ISIL fighters near the University of Tikrit in the city's north on Sunday, security sources said.

The offensive was the first major attempt by the army to retake territory after the United States sent up to 300 advisers, mostly special forces, and drones to help the government take on ISIL.

Earlier on Sunday, Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Hussain al-Shahristani, one of Iraq's most senior politicians, faulted the US for not doing enough to bolster the country's military, just hours after Russia delivered five Sukhoi jets.

"Yes, there has been a delay from the Americans in handing over contracted arms. We told them, 'You once did an air bridge to send arms to your ally Israel, so why don't you give us the contracted arms in time?'" he told al-Hurra television.

US officials have disputed similar statements from Iraqi officials in the past and say they have done everything possible to ensure the country is equipped with modern weaponry.

The five Russian Sukhoi jets were delivered to Baghdad late on Saturday. State television said they "would be used in the coming days to strike ISIL terrorist groups".

ISIL declares new 'Islamic caliphate'

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Rebels fighting in Iraq under ISIL banner announce creation of Islamic state, extending from Diyala to Syria's Aleppo.

he Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), the armed group fighting governments in Iraq and Syria, has announced the establishment of a "caliphate" straddling the two countries.

In an audio recording distributed online on Sunday, the ISIL declared its chief Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi as "the caliph" and "leader for Muslims everywhere".

Baghdadi is believed to be the leader of ISIL, which announced that it is now called "The Islamic State".




According to the statement, the new caliphate stretches from Iraq's Diyala province to Syria's Aleppo.

"The Shura (council) of the Islamic State met and discussed this issue (of the caliphate)... The Islamic State decided to establish an Islamic caliphate and to designate a caliph for the state of the Muslims," said ISIL spokesman Abu Mohammad al-Adnani.

"The words 'Iraq' and 'the Levant' have been removed from the name of the Islamic State in official papers and documents," Adnani said, describing the caliphate as "the dream in all the Muslims' hearts" and "the hope of all jihadists".

Al Jazeera's Imran Khan reporting from the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, said that a caliphate is effectively an Islamic Republic led by one leader, regardless of national boundaries.

With the announcement, the armed group is declaring that they are now legitimate, declaring the caliphate as the "true Muslim state", he said.

The announcement might bring up problems with other Sunni fighters in Iraq, who are fighting the central government of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, and not fighting for the caliphate, our correspondent said.

Tikrit offensive

The ISIL announcement came even as Iraq's army pressed ahead with its offensive to recapture the northern city of Tikrit.

Troops backed by helicopter gunships began an assault on Tikrit, the birthplace of former President Saddam Hussein, on Saturday, to try to take it back from ISIL fighters who have swept to within driving range of Baghdad.

The army sent in tanks and helicopters to battle ISIL fighters near the University of Tikrit in the city's north on Sunday, security sources said.

The offensive was the first major attempt by the army to retake territory after the United States sent up to 300 advisers, mostly special forces, and drones to help the government take on ISIL.

Earlier on Sunday, Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Hussain al-Shahristani, one of Iraq's most senior politicians, faulted the US for not doing enough to bolster the country's military, just hours after Russia delivered five Sukhoi jets.

"Yes, there has been a delay from the Americans in handing over contracted arms. We told them, 'You once did an air bridge to send arms to your ally Israel, so why don't you give us the contracted arms in time?'" he told al-Hurra television.

US officials have disputed similar statements from Iraqi officials in the past and say they have done everything possible to ensure the country is equipped with modern weaponry.

The five Russian Sukhoi jets were delivered to Baghdad late on Saturday. State television said they "would be used in the coming days to strike ISIL terrorist groups".

Costa Rica’s fairy tale continues in Brazil, edges out Greece

Costa Rica continue their fairy tale journey in the World Cup tournament in Brazil, edging out hard-fighting Greece 5-3 on penalties in World Cup last 16 clash, to qualify for the quarter-finals, against The Netherlands.

It was the first time the central American nation will reach the World Cup quarter finals.

The two sides were 1-1 after regulation time with Bryan Ruiz scoring for Costa Rica and Sokratis Papastathopoulos levelling in injury time to force extra time which also ended in deadlock.

Fanis Gekas missed Greece’s fourth penalty and Michael Umana converted Costa Rica’s fifth to seal the historic victory.

The victory became even more significant for Costa Rica, as they played with 10 men after Oscar Duarte was sent off in the 66th minute, after fouling Jose Holebas of Greece.

Just before this, Bryan Ruiz had put the 10-man Costa Rica ahead at the 52nd minute, with a goal, from outside the box.

The goal brought Greece out of their shells and the pressure began to tell on the Costa Ricans. Oscar Duarte brought down Jose Holebas in the 62nd minute and his second yellow card meant his immediate expulsion.

Greece poured forward but still Costa Rica held on and believed the game was theirs when Papastathopoulos struck in the second minute of injury time.

Gekas fired in a low shot which Keylor Navas could not hold and the Borussia Dortmund defender hit in an easy rebound.

Then the two teams went into extra time, with no goal to show.

The penalties followed, with Greece’s Theofanis Gekas, missing his shot.

Costa Rica’s fairy tale continues in Brazil, edges out Greece

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Costa Rica continue their fairy tale journey in the World Cup tournament in Brazil, edging out hard-fighting Greece 5-3 on penalties in World Cup last 16 clash, to qualify for the quarter-finals, against The Netherlands.

It was the first time the central American nation will reach the World Cup quarter finals.

The two sides were 1-1 after regulation time with Bryan Ruiz scoring for Costa Rica and Sokratis Papastathopoulos levelling in injury time to force extra time which also ended in deadlock.

Fanis Gekas missed Greece’s fourth penalty and Michael Umana converted Costa Rica’s fifth to seal the historic victory.

The victory became even more significant for Costa Rica, as they played with 10 men after Oscar Duarte was sent off in the 66th minute, after fouling Jose Holebas of Greece.

Just before this, Bryan Ruiz had put the 10-man Costa Rica ahead at the 52nd minute, with a goal, from outside the box.

The goal brought Greece out of their shells and the pressure began to tell on the Costa Ricans. Oscar Duarte brought down Jose Holebas in the 62nd minute and his second yellow card meant his immediate expulsion.

Greece poured forward but still Costa Rica held on and believed the game was theirs when Papastathopoulos struck in the second minute of injury time.

Gekas fired in a low shot which Keylor Navas could not hold and the Borussia Dortmund defender hit in an easy rebound.

Then the two teams went into extra time, with no goal to show.

The penalties followed, with Greece’s Theofanis Gekas, missing his shot.

Super Eagle Assured To Beat France - Globacom

Nigeria’s national team, Super Eagles have been told that they have what it takes to advance to the quarter-final of the ongoing FIFA World Cup at the expense of France.

They were advised to work as a team and come out victorious in their match against the Le Blues of France on Monday in the Round of 16 of the World Cup by major sponsor of Nigerian national teams, Globacom.

The indigenous telecommunication company urged the team to improve on their good showing against Argentina in the last Group F match by defeating the French team to clinch the quarter final ticket.

The telecommunication company encouraged the team to work harder and play with cohesion in order to give the team the necessary confidence to win the match.

“The team have started to blend as evident from their last encounter against the Argentines where the Eagles exhibited a lot of confidence and played purposeful football despite losing the encounter,” Globacom said in a statement made available to P.M.NEWS Sports.

“The fact that the Super Eagles almost picked a point from the encounter signifies the new spirit in the team and their determination to excel,” the company said.

Globacom therefore advised the Stephen Keshi led coaching crew to correct the lapses noticed in the last match and use the fittest players to ensure victory over the French team in Brasilia on Monday.

“We are also glad that Nigerians have rallied round the team and we implore the nation to continue to support the team with prayer and goodwill messages in order to inspire the team to excel,” the telco said.

Nigeria is participating in its fifth World Cup. The first was USA 94, followed by France 98. Nigeria’s third appearance was in Japan–Korea 2002 while the fourth was in South Africa 2010.

This is the third time that the Super Eagles will progress to the second round of the tournament as they played in the second round in USA 94 against Italy and against Denmark in France 98.

Africa’s best record at the World Cup is reaching the quarter final which Ghana achieved four years ago. Out of the five teams representing Africa at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, only Nigeria and Algeria made it to the round of 16.

Super Eagle Assured To Beat France - Globacom

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Nigeria’s national team, Super Eagles have been told that they have what it takes to advance to the quarter-final of the ongoing FIFA World Cup at the expense of France.

They were advised to work as a team and come out victorious in their match against the Le Blues of France on Monday in the Round of 16 of the World Cup by major sponsor of Nigerian national teams, Globacom.

The indigenous telecommunication company urged the team to improve on their good showing against Argentina in the last Group F match by defeating the French team to clinch the quarter final ticket.

The telecommunication company encouraged the team to work harder and play with cohesion in order to give the team the necessary confidence to win the match.

“The team have started to blend as evident from their last encounter against the Argentines where the Eagles exhibited a lot of confidence and played purposeful football despite losing the encounter,” Globacom said in a statement made available to P.M.NEWS Sports.

“The fact that the Super Eagles almost picked a point from the encounter signifies the new spirit in the team and their determination to excel,” the company said.

Globacom therefore advised the Stephen Keshi led coaching crew to correct the lapses noticed in the last match and use the fittest players to ensure victory over the French team in Brasilia on Monday.

“We are also glad that Nigerians have rallied round the team and we implore the nation to continue to support the team with prayer and goodwill messages in order to inspire the team to excel,” the telco said.

Nigeria is participating in its fifth World Cup. The first was USA 94, followed by France 98. Nigeria’s third appearance was in Japan–Korea 2002 while the fourth was in South Africa 2010.

This is the third time that the Super Eagles will progress to the second round of the tournament as they played in the second round in USA 94 against Italy and against Denmark in France 98.

Africa’s best record at the World Cup is reaching the quarter final which Ghana achieved four years ago. Out of the five teams representing Africa at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, only Nigeria and Algeria made it to the round of 16.

Nigerian soldiers hide as Boko Haram attack churches

Nigerian soldiers reportedly went to hide in the bush as Boko Haram gunmen unleashed fresh attacks on churches in the Chibok area of Borno state today.

Residents said dozens of people may have been killed in the raids on villages roughly 10 kilometres, (six miles) outside of Chibok, but no one was able to offer an authoritative death toll and the military was not immediately available to comment.

“The attackers went to churches with bombs and guns,” Timothy James, a Chibok resident said by phone.

“From what I gathered, dozens of worshippers, including men, women and children were killed,” he said, explaining that his information had come from people who fled the affected area and through phone calls.

Enoch Mark, an outspoken Chibok leader since the April 14 kidnappings, gave a similar account, telling AFP in Lagos, “presently, as we are talking now, we are under attack”.

“We cannot tell the number of dead bodies,” he added. “I was told the attackers burnt at least three churches to the ground.”

Mark further said that the military had not responded to distress calls after the attack began.

“They just went and got a hiding place in the bush,” he told AFP.

While it was not immediately possible to verify the charge, if true, it would likely raise further questions about the military effort in the northeast, the epicentre of Boko Haram’s five-year deadly uprising.

Following the April abduction of 276 girls by Boko Haram from a secondary school in Chibok, parents and local leaders accused the military of doing almost nothing to secure the release of the hostages.

Fifty-seven of the girls escaped within days of the nighttime raid on the school and local officials have said that 219 are still being held.

International outrage has spread since the kidnappings and Nigeria has vowed to secure better secure in the area in the south of Borno state.

Nigerian soldiers hide as Boko Haram attack churches

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Nigerian soldiers reportedly went to hide in the bush as Boko Haram gunmen unleashed fresh attacks on churches in the Chibok area of Borno state today.

Residents said dozens of people may have been killed in the raids on villages roughly 10 kilometres, (six miles) outside of Chibok, but no one was able to offer an authoritative death toll and the military was not immediately available to comment.

“The attackers went to churches with bombs and guns,” Timothy James, a Chibok resident said by phone.

“From what I gathered, dozens of worshippers, including men, women and children were killed,” he said, explaining that his information had come from people who fled the affected area and through phone calls.

Enoch Mark, an outspoken Chibok leader since the April 14 kidnappings, gave a similar account, telling AFP in Lagos, “presently, as we are talking now, we are under attack”.

“We cannot tell the number of dead bodies,” he added. “I was told the attackers burnt at least three churches to the ground.”

Mark further said that the military had not responded to distress calls after the attack began.

“They just went and got a hiding place in the bush,” he told AFP.

While it was not immediately possible to verify the charge, if true, it would likely raise further questions about the military effort in the northeast, the epicentre of Boko Haram’s five-year deadly uprising.

Following the April abduction of 276 girls by Boko Haram from a secondary school in Chibok, parents and local leaders accused the military of doing almost nothing to secure the release of the hostages.

Fifty-seven of the girls escaped within days of the nighttime raid on the school and local officials have said that 219 are still being held.

International outrage has spread since the kidnappings and Nigeria has vowed to secure better secure in the area in the south of Borno state.

The Dossier: Why Herrera makes more sense than Fabregas for Manchester United

The Bilbao-born playmaker is a natural heir to Paul Scholes, blending defensive bite with craft and invention on the ball, and is the perfect midfielder for Louis van Gaal

Barely a fortnight after Chelsea tried to upstage the World Cup curtain-raiser by announcing the signing of Cesc Fabregas, title rivals Manchester United have now recruited their own talented, big-money, Spanish midfielder. There is far less fanfare accompanying Ander Herrera, though, and many are already wondering why United opted to sign the Athletic Bilbao man ahead of his more experienced counterpart.

The dethroned Premier League champions tried to tempt Fabregas to Old Trafford last summer - still with a title to defend back then - but the Catalan club were unwilling to allow the former Arsenal skipper to leave.

He paid back that show of faith – only one player, Angel Di Maria, recorded more assists in Europe’s top five leagues last term than Fabregas – though his more prominent role under beleaguered, and now axed, boss Gerardo Martino began to turn him into something of a pariah for the club’s jarring change in aesthetic and a rare trophyless campaign, since becoming the new regime’s most prominent casualty.

Yet, rather than return for a player with a medal-laden career at the peak of his ability, United ignored Fabregas, though available, and spent £28 million on a player who has fewer career goals than his compatriot has managed in a single season and who has yet to make a senior appearance for Spain – though that is no great slight given the plethora of talent at Vicente del Bosque’s fingertips.

There is a sense that United have passed on a leading man and signed the understudy instead, rejecting an established, world-class player in favour of one that exudes promise and potential rather than proven talent.

But, as unquestionably brilliant as Fabregas is, he is not the man United – and, more specifically, Louis van Gaal – crave. His time as a disciplined, central midfielder is a distant memory, having resided in an advanced role since Arsene Wenger positioned the Masia graduate behind a striker in his last years at Arsenal, where he scored 15 Premier League goals in 2009-10.

The Dossier: Why Herrera makes more sense than Fabregas for Manchester United

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The Bilbao-born playmaker is a natural heir to Paul Scholes, blending defensive bite with craft and invention on the ball, and is the perfect midfielder for Louis van Gaal

Barely a fortnight after Chelsea tried to upstage the World Cup curtain-raiser by announcing the signing of Cesc Fabregas, title rivals Manchester United have now recruited their own talented, big-money, Spanish midfielder. There is far less fanfare accompanying Ander Herrera, though, and many are already wondering why United opted to sign the Athletic Bilbao man ahead of his more experienced counterpart.

The dethroned Premier League champions tried to tempt Fabregas to Old Trafford last summer - still with a title to defend back then - but the Catalan club were unwilling to allow the former Arsenal skipper to leave.

He paid back that show of faith – only one player, Angel Di Maria, recorded more assists in Europe’s top five leagues last term than Fabregas – though his more prominent role under beleaguered, and now axed, boss Gerardo Martino began to turn him into something of a pariah for the club’s jarring change in aesthetic and a rare trophyless campaign, since becoming the new regime’s most prominent casualty.

Yet, rather than return for a player with a medal-laden career at the peak of his ability, United ignored Fabregas, though available, and spent £28 million on a player who has fewer career goals than his compatriot has managed in a single season and who has yet to make a senior appearance for Spain – though that is no great slight given the plethora of talent at Vicente del Bosque’s fingertips.

There is a sense that United have passed on a leading man and signed the understudy instead, rejecting an established, world-class player in favour of one that exudes promise and potential rather than proven talent.

But, as unquestionably brilliant as Fabregas is, he is not the man United – and, more specifically, Louis van Gaal – crave. His time as a disciplined, central midfielder is a distant memory, having resided in an advanced role since Arsene Wenger positioned the Masia graduate behind a striker in his last years at Arsenal, where he scored 15 Premier League goals in 2009-10.

Arsenal line up £32m Alexis Sanchez bid

Arsene Wenger believes the Barcelona forward can be developed into a front man, but the Gunners must convince the Chile international to move to the Emirates Stadium
Arsenal will make a £32 million bid for Alexis Sanchez after making the Barcelona and Chile star their No.1 forward target this summer, Goal can reveal.

Sanchez, whose World Cup is over after Chile were defeated on Saturday night by Brazil on penalties, is set to be sold by Barca this summer as they overhaul their squad following a disappointing season.

Sanchez is also attracting strong interest from Liverpool, Manchester United and Juventus.

The 25-year-old is a player in demand after a series of outstanding World Cup displays and a season in which his 21 club goals were bettered at Camp Nou only by Lionel Messi.

Goal revealed last month that Arsenal had sent a delegation to Madrid to hold talks with a mystery forward, who it is now understood to have been Sanchez.

Arsenal line up £32m Alexis Sanchez bid

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Arsene Wenger believes the Barcelona forward can be developed into a front man, but the Gunners must convince the Chile international to move to the Emirates Stadium
Arsenal will make a £32 million bid for Alexis Sanchez after making the Barcelona and Chile star their No.1 forward target this summer, Goal can reveal.

Sanchez, whose World Cup is over after Chile were defeated on Saturday night by Brazil on penalties, is set to be sold by Barca this summer as they overhaul their squad following a disappointing season.

Sanchez is also attracting strong interest from Liverpool, Manchester United and Juventus.

The 25-year-old is a player in demand after a series of outstanding World Cup displays and a season in which his 21 club goals were bettered at Camp Nou only by Lionel Messi.

Goal revealed last month that Arsenal had sent a delegation to Madrid to hold talks with a mystery forward, who it is now understood to have been Sanchez.

Chelsea step up Pogba pursuit

The Londoners are putting together the most lucrative package in the club's history to entice the highly rated France midfielder, who is valued at around £60 million by Juventus

Chelsea are stepping up their pursuit of Paul Pogba by preparing to offer him the most lucrative contract in their history, Goal understands.

The Londoners are putting together what sources say is a "staggering" package to entice the French sensation to Stamford Bridge this summer.

Cesc Fabregas joined Eden Hazard, Fernando Torres and John Terry in the top bracket of Chelsea earners on the playing staff when he transferred from Barcelona earlier this month for £28.4 million in a deal worth a basic £180,000 a week.

Owner Roman Abramovich is ready to sanction an even more lucrative offer for Pogba, who Jose Mourinho wants to pair in central midfield with Nemanja Matic next season.

Chelsea step up Pogba pursuit

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The Londoners are putting together the most lucrative package in the club's history to entice the highly rated France midfielder, who is valued at around £60 million by Juventus

Chelsea are stepping up their pursuit of Paul Pogba by preparing to offer him the most lucrative contract in their history, Goal understands.

The Londoners are putting together what sources say is a "staggering" package to entice the French sensation to Stamford Bridge this summer.

Cesc Fabregas joined Eden Hazard, Fernando Torres and John Terry in the top bracket of Chelsea earners on the playing staff when he transferred from Barcelona earlier this month for £28.4 million in a deal worth a basic £180,000 a week.

Owner Roman Abramovich is ready to sanction an even more lucrative offer for Pogba, who Jose Mourinho wants to pair in central midfield with Nemanja Matic next season.

Toyin Aimakhu Says Funke Akindele Is Too Big For Her To Compete With

We are beginning to fall deeper in love with Yoruba actress, Toyin Aimakhu-Johnson, as she is exhibiting humility, respect and giving honour to whom it is due. She knows and acknowledges a better actress and knows she cannot compete with Jenifa star, Funke Akindele, who is seen as one of the top actresses in the industry.

As much as she is becoming a better actress with many jobs and recognition coming her way, Toyin says Funke is too big for her to even contemplate overthrowing and that she holds Funke in high esteem because of what she has achieved.

In a recent interview, Iyawo Niyi said:

I can’t overthrow her (Funke) because no one can overthrow me as well. People do have a right to their opinions but we all know that the truth is she is a fantastic actress any time, any day.

So, she be my oga and I dey follow her for back.

Nice one Toyin!

Toyin Aimakhu Says Funke Akindele Is Too Big For Her To Compete With

Posted by Sylvester No comments

We are beginning to fall deeper in love with Yoruba actress, Toyin Aimakhu-Johnson, as she is exhibiting humility, respect and giving honour to whom it is due. She knows and acknowledges a better actress and knows she cannot compete with Jenifa star, Funke Akindele, who is seen as one of the top actresses in the industry.

As much as she is becoming a better actress with many jobs and recognition coming her way, Toyin says Funke is too big for her to even contemplate overthrowing and that she holds Funke in high esteem because of what she has achieved.

In a recent interview, Iyawo Niyi said:

I can’t overthrow her (Funke) because no one can overthrow me as well. People do have a right to their opinions but we all know that the truth is she is a fantastic actress any time, any day.

So, she be my oga and I dey follow her for back.

Nice one Toyin!

Van Gaal tells Manchester United: I don't want a holiday

The Insider: The manager-to-be is keen to immediately begin his role at Old Trafford just three days after Netherlands' World Cup ends, while Cafu could be Premier League bound

VAN GAAL KEEN TO START MANCHESTER UNITED JOB IMMEDIATELY

Manchester United expect Louis van Gaal to take up his post within 72 hours of Netherlands ending their World Cup adventure in Brazil.

Old Trafford insiders have stated the Dutchman, 62, will first return to Amsterdam for a planned reception with the Dutch FA, before taking the short flight to Manchester.

Van Gaal has told the Red Devils he does not need a break after Brazil and he will get to work straight away at Carrington.

The former Bayern Munich chief has a villa in the luxury Portuguese resort of Vale de Lobo and spent a few days with his wife there before joining up with the national team camp.

His wife Truus has already picked out a house and United are now sorting out the paperwork.

CAFU HAS COACHING OFFERS FROM EUROPEAN CLUBS

Former Brazil captain Cafu was involved in a kickabout on Friday with a variety of international journalists at Fluminense's stadium in Rio de Janeiro.

The 44-year-old looked like he still has the quality to play for Brazil, especially given their poor performances in the World Cup.

But perhaps more interestingly, Cafu claims he has received several offers to take on coaching roles at European clubs.

Cafu has, of course, spent time in Liverpool recently, where young Jon Flanagan has earned the nickname 'the Scouse Cafu'.

Could the Reds be one of the clubs who have taken an interest?

Van Gaal tells Manchester United: I don't want a holiday

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The Insider: The manager-to-be is keen to immediately begin his role at Old Trafford just three days after Netherlands' World Cup ends, while Cafu could be Premier League bound

VAN GAAL KEEN TO START MANCHESTER UNITED JOB IMMEDIATELY

Manchester United expect Louis van Gaal to take up his post within 72 hours of Netherlands ending their World Cup adventure in Brazil.

Old Trafford insiders have stated the Dutchman, 62, will first return to Amsterdam for a planned reception with the Dutch FA, before taking the short flight to Manchester.

Van Gaal has told the Red Devils he does not need a break after Brazil and he will get to work straight away at Carrington.

The former Bayern Munich chief has a villa in the luxury Portuguese resort of Vale de Lobo and spent a few days with his wife there before joining up with the national team camp.

His wife Truus has already picked out a house and United are now sorting out the paperwork.

CAFU HAS COACHING OFFERS FROM EUROPEAN CLUBS

Former Brazil captain Cafu was involved in a kickabout on Friday with a variety of international journalists at Fluminense's stadium in Rio de Janeiro.

The 44-year-old looked like he still has the quality to play for Brazil, especially given their poor performances in the World Cup.

But perhaps more interestingly, Cafu claims he has received several offers to take on coaching roles at European clubs.

Cafu has, of course, spent time in Liverpool recently, where young Jon Flanagan has earned the nickname 'the Scouse Cafu'.

Could the Reds be one of the clubs who have taken an interest?

Kano State Gov't Release: Continue Pursuing Your Legitimate Business, Kwankwaso Tells Released Abia Travelers

Kano state Governor, Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso has advised the 29 indigenes of the state, out of the 486 travelers from Northern Nigeria, who were arrested on transit in Abia state by security agents about two weeks ago, on the allegation of being insurgents, to continue pursuing legitimate businesses anywhere they found themselves in the country.

He made the call when the 29 freed indigenes visited him at the Government House in Kano following their release from detention in Abia state.

Governor Kwankwaso argued that there is no law in the country that restricts any citizen from traveling and doing business lawfully anywhere in the nation, lamenting that what the security agents did to the travelers was a clear violation of their fundamental human right.

“Upon hearing that some Northerners were apprehended in that state (Abia), even though we were unaware that Kano indigenes were among the captives then, we began discussion with the authorities concerned to secure their release. But we later thought that it will be impossible to have that number of people going on business without having anybody from Kano. This is the reason why we sent a powerful delegation to discuss with them for your unconditional release or referral of the matter to court,” the governor revealed.

The governor who thanked Almighty God for making the captives to return home safely and urged them to take what happened to them as predestined.

Earlier one of the released travelers, Mudasir Aliyu Kumbosto revealed that they were severely tortured and painfully maltreated while in detention at the barracks in Abia state and denied access to the Kano state government delegation that went to see them.

He, however, thanked the governor for his effort and for making time to see them return home safely and for giving each of them N20, 000 as a transportation money to their respective communities in the state.

Kano State Gov't Release: Continue Pursuing Your Legitimate Business, Kwankwaso Tells Released Abia Travelers

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Kano state Governor, Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso has advised the 29 indigenes of the state, out of the 486 travelers from Northern Nigeria, who were arrested on transit in Abia state by security agents about two weeks ago, on the allegation of being insurgents, to continue pursuing legitimate businesses anywhere they found themselves in the country.

He made the call when the 29 freed indigenes visited him at the Government House in Kano following their release from detention in Abia state.

Governor Kwankwaso argued that there is no law in the country that restricts any citizen from traveling and doing business lawfully anywhere in the nation, lamenting that what the security agents did to the travelers was a clear violation of their fundamental human right.

“Upon hearing that some Northerners were apprehended in that state (Abia), even though we were unaware that Kano indigenes were among the captives then, we began discussion with the authorities concerned to secure their release. But we later thought that it will be impossible to have that number of people going on business without having anybody from Kano. This is the reason why we sent a powerful delegation to discuss with them for your unconditional release or referral of the matter to court,” the governor revealed.

The governor who thanked Almighty God for making the captives to return home safely and urged them to take what happened to them as predestined.

Earlier one of the released travelers, Mudasir Aliyu Kumbosto revealed that they were severely tortured and painfully maltreated while in detention at the barracks in Abia state and denied access to the Kano state government delegation that went to see them.

He, however, thanked the governor for his effort and for making time to see them return home safely and for giving each of them N20, 000 as a transportation money to their respective communities in the state.

Smugglers resort to mobilising local youths to help them beat up Customs officers

SMUGGLERS have adopted the new tactic of mobilising local youths to join them in attacking Customs officers in their desperate bid to thwart efforts by the authorities to combat the illicit trade in contraband material.

Over the weekend, smugglers successfully mobilised youths from Kishi and Igbeti communities, to attack and beat up men from the of Oyo/Osun Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). These youths joined the criminals in beating up Customs officers on duty on the day, beating them up so badly, thus enabling the smugglers to carry out their business uninhibited.

Shallangwa Hassan Sule, the deputy comptroller of Customs and co-ordinator of the agency's anti-smuggling task force, said the smugglers descended on officers carrying out their legitimate duty. He added that the brutality of the attack left some officers badly injured and their patrol vehicle was also destroyed.

Mr Sule said: “Task force team had in the past weeks made it very difficult for smugglers in that axis to carry out their nefarious activities, hence they resorted to violence. This is with a view to intimidating the officers from carrying out their legitimate duty but we want to assure them that we cannot be intimidated by these acts of violence.

Smugglers resort to mobilising local youths to help them beat up Customs officers

Posted by Sylvester No comments

SMUGGLERS have adopted the new tactic of mobilising local youths to join them in attacking Customs officers in their desperate bid to thwart efforts by the authorities to combat the illicit trade in contraband material.

Over the weekend, smugglers successfully mobilised youths from Kishi and Igbeti communities, to attack and beat up men from the of Oyo/Osun Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). These youths joined the criminals in beating up Customs officers on duty on the day, beating them up so badly, thus enabling the smugglers to carry out their business uninhibited.

Shallangwa Hassan Sule, the deputy comptroller of Customs and co-ordinator of the agency's anti-smuggling task force, said the smugglers descended on officers carrying out their legitimate duty. He added that the brutality of the attack left some officers badly injured and their patrol vehicle was also destroyed.

Mr Sule said: “Task force team had in the past weeks made it very difficult for smugglers in that axis to carry out their nefarious activities, hence they resorted to violence. This is with a view to intimidating the officers from carrying out their legitimate duty but we want to assure them that we cannot be intimidated by these acts of violence.

Local communities across northeast form more anti-Boko Haram vigilante groups

MORE communities across northeastern Nigeria are resorting to forming armed vigilante groups set up to combat the growing menace of Boko Haram due to the inability of the country's military authorities to control the terrorist sect.

Over recent years, Boko Haram has laid siege to large swathes of northeastern Nigeria, blighting communities and in some case taking over entire local government areas. Totalled overwhelmed by the situation, Nigeria's military has been unable to combat the well-armed terrorist group, leaving local people to fend for themselves.

In Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, local people have formed vigilante groups called Civilian Joint Task Forces (JTF) which have been highly effective ion containing the terrorists. This model is now being copied across northern Nigeria with towns and villages forming Volunteer Vigilance Youths’ Groups.

Among other things, they are procuring small arms to enable them confront the well-armed terrorist group that is equipped with hardware that include rocket launchers, armoured personnel carriers, machine guns and other forms of military equipment. Local communities are also introducing measures to defend themselves from potential attacks.

Local communities across northeast form more anti-Boko Haram vigilante groups

Posted by Sylvester No comments

MORE communities across northeastern Nigeria are resorting to forming armed vigilante groups set up to combat the growing menace of Boko Haram due to the inability of the country's military authorities to control the terrorist sect.

Over recent years, Boko Haram has laid siege to large swathes of northeastern Nigeria, blighting communities and in some case taking over entire local government areas. Totalled overwhelmed by the situation, Nigeria's military has been unable to combat the well-armed terrorist group, leaving local people to fend for themselves.

In Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, local people have formed vigilante groups called Civilian Joint Task Forces (JTF) which have been highly effective ion containing the terrorists. This model is now being copied across northern Nigeria with towns and villages forming Volunteer Vigilance Youths’ Groups.

Among other things, they are procuring small arms to enable them confront the well-armed terrorist group that is equipped with hardware that include rocket launchers, armoured personnel carriers, machine guns and other forms of military equipment. Local communities are also introducing measures to defend themselves from potential attacks.

Top 20 Universities In Nigeria Based On Web Ranking

According to 41cu.org,an international higher education search engine and directory reviewing accredited Universities and Colleges in the world, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is the best web ranking university in Nigeria.
The current ranking is based upon an algorithm including five unbiased and independent web metrics extracted from three different search engines:
Google Page Rank
Alexa Traffic Rank
Majestic Seo Referring Domains
Majestic Seo Citation Flow
Majestic Seo Trust
Check out the first 10 universities in Nigeria:

Check out the remaining top 20 universities,,

Top 20 Universities In Nigeria Based On Web Ranking

Posted by Sylvester No comments

According to 41cu.org,an international higher education search engine and directory reviewing accredited Universities and Colleges in the world, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) is the best web ranking university in Nigeria.
The current ranking is based upon an algorithm including five unbiased and independent web metrics extracted from three different search engines:
Google Page Rank
Alexa Traffic Rank
Majestic Seo Referring Domains
Majestic Seo Citation Flow
Majestic Seo Trust
Check out the first 10 universities in Nigeria:

Check out the remaining top 20 universities,,

UK Scholarships for International Students in 2014

Lots of international students in African and other countries are not aware of the many opportunities they have to obtain a scholarship to study in the United kingdom. The scholarship are divided into two broad categories, the UK government scholarship and UK University scholarship.

UK Government Scholarships

Chevening Scholarships
The Chevening UK Scholarships is the flagship scholarship scheme of the British Government. Every year, 1000 scholarships are given to exceptional international students who wants undertake postgraduate study at UK Universities.

Commonwealth Scholarships
The Commonwealth Scholarships are targeted to students from developing Commonwealth countries who wants to pursue Master’s, PhD, and split-site (PhD) study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID).

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme
The Shared Scholarship Scheme is a joint initiative between the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (with funding from DFID), and UK universities, to support scholarships for students from developing Commonwealth countries who wants to pursue postgraduate studies at UK Universities towards the development of their home countries.

UK University Scholarships 

 
Gates Cambridge Scholarships
Gates Cambridge Scholarships are full-cost awards for graduate study and research in any subject available at the University of Cambridge. The scholarships are open to all international students from all over the world. A Gates Cambridge Scholarship covers the full cost of studying at Cambridge namely: university fees, maintenance allowances, airfare, and some dependant’s allowance. About 100 new Gates Scholars are awarded annually.


Rhodes Scholarships at University of Oxford
Established in the will of Cecil Rhodes in 1902, the Rhodes is the oldest and perhaps the most prestigious international scholarship program in the world. The Rhodes Scholarships are postgraduate awards that supports exceptional international students from selected countries at the University of Oxford. A Rhodes Scholarship covers all university fees, personal stipend, health insurance, and airfare to and from the student’s home country. A class of 83 Scholars are selected each year.


Cardiff University Scholarships for International Students
In recognition of the outstanding talent of many international students, Cardiff University offers a highly prestigious International Scholarship Fund designed to attract and reward the brightest students. There is a wide range of distinct scholarships available annually, at all academic levels: Undergraduate (3 scholarships), Postgraduate Taught – Masters (6 scholarships), and Postgraduate Research – PhD (not specified). The scholarships will cover full tuition fees for the duration of the studies.


University of Birmingham Scholarships for International Students
The University of Birmingham is offering 18 individual scholarships for international candidates commencing a one year Masters programme. The scholarships are worth £10,000 towards the cost of tuition fees for a one year masters course. These awards are for tuition fees only and cannot be used for maintenance/living costs.

ISH-London Met Scholarship Scheme
London Metropolitan University and International Students House (ISH) offers a joint scholarship programme for international students from selected countries who wish to pursue a Master’s Degree Programme at the University. The scholarship programme offers a full tuition fee scholarship and includes one year’s free accommodation at International Students House.

Bristol University International Office Scholarships
The University of Bristol is offering ten International Office Scholarships for new international students who wish to pursue an undergraduate or postgraduate degrees at the University. The scholarships are worth £8,500 which can go towards your tuition fee.

UK Scholarships for International Students in 2014

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Lots of international students in African and other countries are not aware of the many opportunities they have to obtain a scholarship to study in the United kingdom. The scholarship are divided into two broad categories, the UK government scholarship and UK University scholarship.

UK Government Scholarships

Chevening Scholarships
The Chevening UK Scholarships is the flagship scholarship scheme of the British Government. Every year, 1000 scholarships are given to exceptional international students who wants undertake postgraduate study at UK Universities.

Commonwealth Scholarships
The Commonwealth Scholarships are targeted to students from developing Commonwealth countries who wants to pursue Master’s, PhD, and split-site (PhD) study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK Department for International Development (DFID).

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme
The Shared Scholarship Scheme is a joint initiative between the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (with funding from DFID), and UK universities, to support scholarships for students from developing Commonwealth countries who wants to pursue postgraduate studies at UK Universities towards the development of their home countries.

UK University Scholarships 

 
Gates Cambridge Scholarships
Gates Cambridge Scholarships are full-cost awards for graduate study and research in any subject available at the University of Cambridge. The scholarships are open to all international students from all over the world. A Gates Cambridge Scholarship covers the full cost of studying at Cambridge namely: university fees, maintenance allowances, airfare, and some dependant’s allowance. About 100 new Gates Scholars are awarded annually.


Rhodes Scholarships at University of Oxford
Established in the will of Cecil Rhodes in 1902, the Rhodes is the oldest and perhaps the most prestigious international scholarship program in the world. The Rhodes Scholarships are postgraduate awards that supports exceptional international students from selected countries at the University of Oxford. A Rhodes Scholarship covers all university fees, personal stipend, health insurance, and airfare to and from the student’s home country. A class of 83 Scholars are selected each year.


Cardiff University Scholarships for International Students
In recognition of the outstanding talent of many international students, Cardiff University offers a highly prestigious International Scholarship Fund designed to attract and reward the brightest students. There is a wide range of distinct scholarships available annually, at all academic levels: Undergraduate (3 scholarships), Postgraduate Taught – Masters (6 scholarships), and Postgraduate Research – PhD (not specified). The scholarships will cover full tuition fees for the duration of the studies.


University of Birmingham Scholarships for International Students
The University of Birmingham is offering 18 individual scholarships for international candidates commencing a one year Masters programme. The scholarships are worth £10,000 towards the cost of tuition fees for a one year masters course. These awards are for tuition fees only and cannot be used for maintenance/living costs.

ISH-London Met Scholarship Scheme
London Metropolitan University and International Students House (ISH) offers a joint scholarship programme for international students from selected countries who wish to pursue a Master’s Degree Programme at the University. The scholarship programme offers a full tuition fee scholarship and includes one year’s free accommodation at International Students House.

Bristol University International Office Scholarships
The University of Bristol is offering ten International Office Scholarships for new international students who wish to pursue an undergraduate or postgraduate degrees at the University. The scholarships are worth £8,500 which can go towards your tuition fee.

MUST READ:Check out UK and Nigeria University head to head

When people are asked why African nations are struggling in areas of development, governance and many others,when the developed world are flourishing, many are quick to give excuses ranging from bad leadership, corruption,ethnicity e.t.c. In this post , i like to present a different approach to these problems.

I sincerely think African biggest problem is lack of a well structured Education system. For simplicity, i like to use Nigeria and UK as a case study because i have lived in both countries well enough and i have gotten degrees in both. It has been very easy to discover educational patterns that make the UK what it is today and also the patterns that characterizes the Nigeria education system.

1. UK built their education system around their own way of living, their culture and to solve their own problems while Nigeria adopted a system that is so different from its way of life in many areas.


2. Research findings from studies in the UK are integrated into the system to impact government and citizens positively while research findings from Nigeria universities are stacked in unread books and journals and don't impact the lives of the ordinary man.
3. Quality education is made accessible to all in the UK while only the rich can afford the allegedly "good education" in Nigeria.


4. Education research, project and studies are sponsored by the government and business organizations to a large scale in the UK while government and business sponsored researches in Nigeria is almost non-existent. Interested and smart individuals inconvenience themselves to carry out researches and the fact that the results are swept under the carpet make this so painful.


5. In the latest QS ranking, UK currently boast about 17 universities in the world's best 100 university while no Nigeria University is in the top 1000 world universities.


To say African continent will undergo a major turn around if they tackle their education crisis is an understatement. Lets all join hands to make African work.

- See more at: http://mercyjonline.blogspot.com/2014/04/check-out-uk-and-nigeria-university.html#sthash.8L3xAg0K.dpuf

MUST READ:Check out UK and Nigeria University head to head

Posted by Sylvester No comments

When people are asked why African nations are struggling in areas of development, governance and many others,when the developed world are flourishing, many are quick to give excuses ranging from bad leadership, corruption,ethnicity e.t.c. In this post , i like to present a different approach to these problems.

I sincerely think African biggest problem is lack of a well structured Education system. For simplicity, i like to use Nigeria and UK as a case study because i have lived in both countries well enough and i have gotten degrees in both. It has been very easy to discover educational patterns that make the UK what it is today and also the patterns that characterizes the Nigeria education system.

1. UK built their education system around their own way of living, their culture and to solve their own problems while Nigeria adopted a system that is so different from its way of life in many areas.


2. Research findings from studies in the UK are integrated into the system to impact government and citizens positively while research findings from Nigeria universities are stacked in unread books and journals and don't impact the lives of the ordinary man.
3. Quality education is made accessible to all in the UK while only the rich can afford the allegedly "good education" in Nigeria.


4. Education research, project and studies are sponsored by the government and business organizations to a large scale in the UK while government and business sponsored researches in Nigeria is almost non-existent. Interested and smart individuals inconvenience themselves to carry out researches and the fact that the results are swept under the carpet make this so painful.


5. In the latest QS ranking, UK currently boast about 17 universities in the world's best 100 university while no Nigeria University is in the top 1000 world universities.


To say African continent will undergo a major turn around if they tackle their education crisis is an understatement. Lets all join hands to make African work.

- See more at: http://mercyjonline.blogspot.com/2014/04/check-out-uk-and-nigeria-university.html#sthash.8L3xAg0K.dpuf

UNIZIK Cut-Off Admission for 2014/2015 Stands at 180

  

Yeah, we promised to bring you all the latest cut off marks for the various university. Just got a report that the Senate Committee of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University has concluded that the cut-off mark for 2014/2015 admission into the institution is 180. This means that if you have applied for admission into UNIZIK and scored up to 180; you stand a chance of being admitted into the school. Start preparing for your post-UTME and stay informed to know when the post-UTME form will be on sale.

UNIZIK Cut-Off Admission for 2014/2015 Stands at 180

Posted by Sylvester No comments

  

Yeah, we promised to bring you all the latest cut off marks for the various university. Just got a report that the Senate Committee of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University has concluded that the cut-off mark for 2014/2015 admission into the institution is 180. This means that if you have applied for admission into UNIZIK and scored up to 180; you stand a chance of being admitted into the school. Start preparing for your post-UTME and stay informed to know when the post-UTME form will be on sale.

Graduate jobs: top 12 degree subjects for getting a job in the UK

This is list of top 12 courses in the UK that can land you a job quickly after graduation as compiled by the Telegraph,UK . 

1. Business & administrative studies
Turns out you don't need need to win The Apprentice to forge a career in the City - for 85 per cent of graduates, a business degree did just as well (or better, in the case of some of Lord Sugar's winners).

2. Architecture, building and planning
"The skies of London are busy with cranes that froze or disappeared in 2008," according to Mayor of London and Telegraph columnist Boris Johnson. And here's more good news for architecture students - 85.2 per cent had found jobs or further study within six months of graduation

3. Historical & philosophical studies
A perhaps surprising inclusion in the top 10 is historical and philosophical studies graduates, 85.4 per cent of whom had landed jobs or further studies within six months of finishing their degrees. However, that's down from 90 per cent the previous year - a golden era for historians, seemingly.

They still beat students of subjects which failed to make the list including physics and computer science.
4. Engineering
Experts everywhere have been making robust predictions for the growth of "Stem" jobs (science, technology, engineering and maths) - and so far they don't seem to be wrong. Engineering graduates performed well in the job market last year, with 85.4 per cent landing either a job or further education within six months.
5. Languages
Much as we Brits hate to admit it, the ability to speak another language is a highly sought-after skill in the job market these days – and 86 per cent of 2011/12 language graduates have the jobs to prove it.
6. Mathematical sciences
Mathematicians are clearly in demand – 86.5 per cent had landed jobs or further education positions within 6 months of 2011/12 graduation. Let's just hope their skills are being employed to better effect than tweaking Libor rates or inventing impossibly complex financial derivatives.
7. Biological sciences
Studying biological sciences isn't all about field trips chasing elephants around the savannahs. Some 87.1 per cent of recent graduates have walked into jobs or more studies, with biotech and other related industries currently booming.
8. Law

If there's one degree choice which has always been seen as a near-guarantee of well-paid employment it has to be law. That appears as true today as ever, with 88.6 per cent of 2011/12's law graduates finding themselves work or study - although it is worth noting that around half of these went into some form of further study.
9. Subjects allied to medicine
This broad category encompasses degrees such as biomedical science and neurology. Across the spectrum an impressive 91.8 per cent of students were able to quickly find work.
10. Veterinary science
Treated as a separate subject from medicine and dentistry by the bods at HESA this year, veterinary science still holds its own in the employment stakes, with 91.9 per cent in either work or study six months after graduation.

In fact, purely in terms of employment it ranks second, with 85 per cent of grads finding work immediately in the UK, and another 3 per cent finding employment overseas.

11. Education
Whatever you think of Michael Gove's reforms, this statistic seems to show how much we still need teachers – 92.6 per cent of all those leaving university with degrees relating to education picked up work or further study right away.

Some 15 per cent were in either part- or full-time study, and just one per cent were working overseas.
12. Medicine & dentistry
A predictable number one, but the margin is still remarkable. A massive 99.4 per cent of all students graduating in medicine or dentistry landed themselves jobs or further study within six months of graduating. 92 per cent went straight into work in the UK.

Surprisingly, relatively few of these new doctors found their jobs in Australia: just 15 of the 7,095 graduates who replied to the survey were working abroad - exactly the same number as were unemployed.

Graduate jobs: top 12 degree subjects for getting a job in the UK

Posted by Sylvester No comments

This is list of top 12 courses in the UK that can land you a job quickly after graduation as compiled by the Telegraph,UK . 

1. Business & administrative studies
Turns out you don't need need to win The Apprentice to forge a career in the City - for 85 per cent of graduates, a business degree did just as well (or better, in the case of some of Lord Sugar's winners).

2. Architecture, building and planning
"The skies of London are busy with cranes that froze or disappeared in 2008," according to Mayor of London and Telegraph columnist Boris Johnson. And here's more good news for architecture students - 85.2 per cent had found jobs or further study within six months of graduation

3. Historical & philosophical studies
A perhaps surprising inclusion in the top 10 is historical and philosophical studies graduates, 85.4 per cent of whom had landed jobs or further studies within six months of finishing their degrees. However, that's down from 90 per cent the previous year - a golden era for historians, seemingly.

They still beat students of subjects which failed to make the list including physics and computer science.
4. Engineering
Experts everywhere have been making robust predictions for the growth of "Stem" jobs (science, technology, engineering and maths) - and so far they don't seem to be wrong. Engineering graduates performed well in the job market last year, with 85.4 per cent landing either a job or further education within six months.
5. Languages
Much as we Brits hate to admit it, the ability to speak another language is a highly sought-after skill in the job market these days – and 86 per cent of 2011/12 language graduates have the jobs to prove it.
6. Mathematical sciences
Mathematicians are clearly in demand – 86.5 per cent had landed jobs or further education positions within 6 months of 2011/12 graduation. Let's just hope their skills are being employed to better effect than tweaking Libor rates or inventing impossibly complex financial derivatives.
7. Biological sciences
Studying biological sciences isn't all about field trips chasing elephants around the savannahs. Some 87.1 per cent of recent graduates have walked into jobs or more studies, with biotech and other related industries currently booming.
8. Law

If there's one degree choice which has always been seen as a near-guarantee of well-paid employment it has to be law. That appears as true today as ever, with 88.6 per cent of 2011/12's law graduates finding themselves work or study - although it is worth noting that around half of these went into some form of further study.
9. Subjects allied to medicine
This broad category encompasses degrees such as biomedical science and neurology. Across the spectrum an impressive 91.8 per cent of students were able to quickly find work.
10. Veterinary science
Treated as a separate subject from medicine and dentistry by the bods at HESA this year, veterinary science still holds its own in the employment stakes, with 91.9 per cent in either work or study six months after graduation.

In fact, purely in terms of employment it ranks second, with 85 per cent of grads finding work immediately in the UK, and another 3 per cent finding employment overseas.

11. Education
Whatever you think of Michael Gove's reforms, this statistic seems to show how much we still need teachers – 92.6 per cent of all those leaving university with degrees relating to education picked up work or further study right away.

Some 15 per cent were in either part- or full-time study, and just one per cent were working overseas.
12. Medicine & dentistry
A predictable number one, but the margin is still remarkable. A massive 99.4 per cent of all students graduating in medicine or dentistry landed themselves jobs or further study within six months of graduating. 92 per cent went straight into work in the UK.

Surprisingly, relatively few of these new doctors found their jobs in Australia: just 15 of the 7,095 graduates who replied to the survey were working abroad - exactly the same number as were unemployed.

WAEC Candidate Gives Birth In Exam Hall?

A 22-year-old final year student of Akyem Swedru Senior High School (SHS) in Ghana was reported to have delivered a baby while writing the ongoing West African School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

According to reports, the students were writing Biology paper when the pregnant girl began to scream, attracting the attention of the invigilators. The student had allegedly delivered the baby boy without the assistance of her colleagues.


Daily Guide reports: She was later rushed to the Akyem Roman Catholic Hospital for medical attention. Meanwhile, DAILY GUIDE has gathered that the baby boy had been named Kwaku Biology – (Kwaku, for the day he was born and Biology, the paper the student was writing before the delivery).


According to some sources, the student was impregnated by her fiancé but the man refused to contact the girl’s family because he claimed the girl was too fat. The mother of the student, Mama Yaa, told the paper via telephone that she had no knowledge of her daughter’s pregnancy. Danwono A.K. Michael, the headmaster of Akyem Swedru Senior High School, expressed surprise at the development, stating that the student never toyed with her studies.

WAEC Candidate Gives Birth In Exam Hall?

Posted by Sylvester No comments

A 22-year-old final year student of Akyem Swedru Senior High School (SHS) in Ghana was reported to have delivered a baby while writing the ongoing West African School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

According to reports, the students were writing Biology paper when the pregnant girl began to scream, attracting the attention of the invigilators. The student had allegedly delivered the baby boy without the assistance of her colleagues.


Daily Guide reports: She was later rushed to the Akyem Roman Catholic Hospital for medical attention. Meanwhile, DAILY GUIDE has gathered that the baby boy had been named Kwaku Biology – (Kwaku, for the day he was born and Biology, the paper the student was writing before the delivery).


According to some sources, the student was impregnated by her fiancé but the man refused to contact the girl’s family because he claimed the girl was too fat. The mother of the student, Mama Yaa, told the paper via telephone that she had no knowledge of her daughter’s pregnancy. Danwono A.K. Michael, the headmaster of Akyem Swedru Senior High School, expressed surprise at the development, stating that the student never toyed with her studies.

Unbelievable : Kim Kardashian And Kanye West's Gardener Sues Their Baby North West

Oh! you want my parent's money Donn, don't you?

Kim Kardashian's one year old Baby North West has been accused of being a spoiled little brat by their former groundskeeper, he claims she made his life, a living hell. And now he is suing Kim Kardashian along with North West for $1million!

MediaTakeOut reports that Chris Donnelly filed a 1 million dollar federal lawsuit against Kim and Kanye's baby North West along with Ms. Kardashian. Chris claims to have been a former groundskeeper for Kanye and Kim.

He claims in court document that baby North West is a spoiled brat who constantly screamed so loud his hearing was damaged. Further, while working with the family he says that North West spit baby food
on him and threw a diaper at him which caused him to fall into a pool and nearly drown. He claimed to have suffered emotional distress due to the incident.


Donnelly also states a family member told him if he didn't like how North West acted that she would punish him by making him shine shoes for dirt cheap. He even says if the family doesn't pay him 1 million dollars he will go to the press and expose everything that happened to him while working for the family.

However, the judge in the case came back on June 25th and sided with Kim, Kanye & West ... claiming the man cannot sue for the allegations he stated and that they are dismissing the case. It's not clear whether the man now plans on releasing the alleged damaging information to the press.

Unbelievable : Kim Kardashian And Kanye West's Gardener Sues Their Baby North West

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Oh! you want my parent's money Donn, don't you?

Kim Kardashian's one year old Baby North West has been accused of being a spoiled little brat by their former groundskeeper, he claims she made his life, a living hell. And now he is suing Kim Kardashian along with North West for $1million!

MediaTakeOut reports that Chris Donnelly filed a 1 million dollar federal lawsuit against Kim and Kanye's baby North West along with Ms. Kardashian. Chris claims to have been a former groundskeeper for Kanye and Kim.

He claims in court document that baby North West is a spoiled brat who constantly screamed so loud his hearing was damaged. Further, while working with the family he says that North West spit baby food
on him and threw a diaper at him which caused him to fall into a pool and nearly drown. He claimed to have suffered emotional distress due to the incident.


Donnelly also states a family member told him if he didn't like how North West acted that she would punish him by making him shine shoes for dirt cheap. He even says if the family doesn't pay him 1 million dollars he will go to the press and expose everything that happened to him while working for the family.

However, the judge in the case came back on June 25th and sided with Kim, Kanye & West ... claiming the man cannot sue for the allegations he stated and that they are dismissing the case. It's not clear whether the man now plans on releasing the alleged damaging information to the press.

Meet Nigeria’s Top 7 Most Bankable Female Musicians

I know Nigerians like anything that has been arranged in a list, so when i came across this online, I decided to share.

Read and enjoy: -

Who are Nigeria’s most bankable female music stars?

This list was determined by factors such as other business ventures and current endorsement deals. The criteria also includes popularity, Youtube views as well as social media influence.

Female musicians are now beginning to be accepted by music-buffs, unlike when they were hardly taking serious in the music industry. Not only are they making waves with their hit songs, thus they are as well appreciated by fans and corporate agencies who had in the past invested huge sum of money in an endorsement deal with them.

Out of too many of them on the scene, few who in the recent times kept their place as the delight of music lovers and fans. We present you Nigeria’s Most Bankable Female Musicians’.

Check Out Our List Below…

TIWA SAVAGE

Gorgeous Singer/songwriter, Tiwa Savage, kings her fellow female acts in all…she has a voice that gives the average listener chills because her soaring voice is truly one in a million.

Ms. Savage took over Africa with her lead-off single “Kele Kele Love,” which became an anthem for women everywhere as it took the number one spot on numerous radio and television stations across the continent. Her big break was at age 16 when she started as a background singer for George Michael, lending her voice to the world-renowned musician. Her determination didn’t stop there; Tiwa went on to sing backup for a host of artistes including Mary J. Blige, Chaka Khan, Blu Cantrell, Emma Bunton from The Spice Girls, Kelly Clarkson, Andreas Bocelli, Ms Dynamite, and much more. She co-wrote the track “Collard Greens & Cornbread” on Fantasia Barrino’s Grammy-nominated album ‘Back to Me’

A graduate from the University of Kent, Tiwa received her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and went on to Berklee College of Music where she received a scholarship to pursue a degree in Professional Music. Drawn by the diversity of cultures, and extraordinary gifts of creative students, she knew then that she had discovered a musical synagogue to hone her artistry. In 2009, music giant SONY/ATV signed her to a singer/songwriter deal and thus far, Tiwa has written for some of today’s A-list artistes and producers. She has since received songwriting credit for her contributions on Monica’s seventh studio album “New Life: The Deluxe Album,” released in 2012 and available on iTunes, for the soul-tinged ballad ‘Catch Me’.

Her exposure to various genres of music, and an understanding of the written verbiage of keys, chords and harmonies has facilitated the construction of new material. Last year, she won the City People Entertainment Award for ‘Female Musician of the Year’, ‘Best R&B Soul Song’ for Kele Kele Love at the Afrotainment Museke Online Music Awards, ‘Most Stylish Female Artiste’ at the FAB Magazine Awards and ‘Most Promising Act’ at the Dynamix Youth Awards. She also just picked up the ‘Best Female Act’ at MTV Africa Music Awards held 2 weeks ago

The Nigerian beauty is a triple threat with her natural songwriting ability, electrifying stage presence and a voice that stays powerful, Ms. Savage is now ready to share her music with the world.

She’s got a few endorsements too in her piggy – MTN, Pepsi, Forte Oil.

OMAWUMI

From childhood Omawumi had been known to be a playful, energetic, intelligent and extremely talented child as she was already a lead vocalist in the children’s choir of Foursquare Gospel Church in Warri at the age of 8. After she graduated in 2005, she moved to Port-Harcourt, Rivers State where she worked with her family law firm called O.S Megbele & Associates while studying French in Alliiance Francaise

On the 26th Day of January 2007, Omawumi auditioned for the West African version of an internationally acclaimed TV talent show tagged ‘IDOLS WEST AFRICA’. Omawumi with her strong voice and out-going personality dazzled the millions of viewers across the continent with each ‘spectacular’ and was voted the 1ST RUNNER UP of IDOLS WEST AFRICA when the competition ended in May 2007.

In September 2008, Omawumi released her debut Single ‘In The Music’ A kwaito based sound which she fused with pidgin English and the song became an Instant Hit. Hitting number 1 on various radio stations and getting multiple nominations and awards including the most coveted award ‘NEXT RATED’(This award came with a KIA OPTIMA!) and BEST FEMALE VOCALIST AWARDS FROM HIPHOP WORLD AWARDS 2009. She also featured in the Hit Single ‘THANK GOD’ by the late Dagrin. Amongst multiple nominations (SOUNNDCITY MUSIC VIDEO AWARDS, NIGERIAN MUSIC VIDEO AWARDS, CITY PEOPLE AWARDS etc), Other Awards for her success in the industry includes.
She is an Ambassador for Telecoms Giant, Globacom

SEYI SHAY

Deborah Oluwaseyi Joshua (born December 21, 1985), professionally known by her stage name ‘Seyi Shay’, is a Nigerian based English singer-songwriter, recording artist, performer, and record producer. She wrote and produced three songs for the soundtrack to Konami’s video game Crime Life: Gang Wars (2005).
She also wrote “You Will See”, a song that was included on Melanie C’s third studio album Beautiful Intentions (2005). Shay wrote “White Lies”, a song from Chip’s Transition album.

Meet Nigeria’s Top 7 Most Bankable Female Musicians

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I know Nigerians like anything that has been arranged in a list, so when i came across this online, I decided to share.

Read and enjoy: -

Who are Nigeria’s most bankable female music stars?

This list was determined by factors such as other business ventures and current endorsement deals. The criteria also includes popularity, Youtube views as well as social media influence.

Female musicians are now beginning to be accepted by music-buffs, unlike when they were hardly taking serious in the music industry. Not only are they making waves with their hit songs, thus they are as well appreciated by fans and corporate agencies who had in the past invested huge sum of money in an endorsement deal with them.

Out of too many of them on the scene, few who in the recent times kept their place as the delight of music lovers and fans. We present you Nigeria’s Most Bankable Female Musicians’.

Check Out Our List Below…

TIWA SAVAGE

Gorgeous Singer/songwriter, Tiwa Savage, kings her fellow female acts in all…she has a voice that gives the average listener chills because her soaring voice is truly one in a million.

Ms. Savage took over Africa with her lead-off single “Kele Kele Love,” which became an anthem for women everywhere as it took the number one spot on numerous radio and television stations across the continent. Her big break was at age 16 when she started as a background singer for George Michael, lending her voice to the world-renowned musician. Her determination didn’t stop there; Tiwa went on to sing backup for a host of artistes including Mary J. Blige, Chaka Khan, Blu Cantrell, Emma Bunton from The Spice Girls, Kelly Clarkson, Andreas Bocelli, Ms Dynamite, and much more. She co-wrote the track “Collard Greens & Cornbread” on Fantasia Barrino’s Grammy-nominated album ‘Back to Me’

A graduate from the University of Kent, Tiwa received her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and went on to Berklee College of Music where she received a scholarship to pursue a degree in Professional Music. Drawn by the diversity of cultures, and extraordinary gifts of creative students, she knew then that she had discovered a musical synagogue to hone her artistry. In 2009, music giant SONY/ATV signed her to a singer/songwriter deal and thus far, Tiwa has written for some of today’s A-list artistes and producers. She has since received songwriting credit for her contributions on Monica’s seventh studio album “New Life: The Deluxe Album,” released in 2012 and available on iTunes, for the soul-tinged ballad ‘Catch Me’.

Her exposure to various genres of music, and an understanding of the written verbiage of keys, chords and harmonies has facilitated the construction of new material. Last year, she won the City People Entertainment Award for ‘Female Musician of the Year’, ‘Best R&B Soul Song’ for Kele Kele Love at the Afrotainment Museke Online Music Awards, ‘Most Stylish Female Artiste’ at the FAB Magazine Awards and ‘Most Promising Act’ at the Dynamix Youth Awards. She also just picked up the ‘Best Female Act’ at MTV Africa Music Awards held 2 weeks ago

The Nigerian beauty is a triple threat with her natural songwriting ability, electrifying stage presence and a voice that stays powerful, Ms. Savage is now ready to share her music with the world.

She’s got a few endorsements too in her piggy – MTN, Pepsi, Forte Oil.

OMAWUMI

From childhood Omawumi had been known to be a playful, energetic, intelligent and extremely talented child as she was already a lead vocalist in the children’s choir of Foursquare Gospel Church in Warri at the age of 8. After she graduated in 2005, she moved to Port-Harcourt, Rivers State where she worked with her family law firm called O.S Megbele & Associates while studying French in Alliiance Francaise

On the 26th Day of January 2007, Omawumi auditioned for the West African version of an internationally acclaimed TV talent show tagged ‘IDOLS WEST AFRICA’. Omawumi with her strong voice and out-going personality dazzled the millions of viewers across the continent with each ‘spectacular’ and was voted the 1ST RUNNER UP of IDOLS WEST AFRICA when the competition ended in May 2007.

In September 2008, Omawumi released her debut Single ‘In The Music’ A kwaito based sound which she fused with pidgin English and the song became an Instant Hit. Hitting number 1 on various radio stations and getting multiple nominations and awards including the most coveted award ‘NEXT RATED’(This award came with a KIA OPTIMA!) and BEST FEMALE VOCALIST AWARDS FROM HIPHOP WORLD AWARDS 2009. She also featured in the Hit Single ‘THANK GOD’ by the late Dagrin. Amongst multiple nominations (SOUNNDCITY MUSIC VIDEO AWARDS, NIGERIAN MUSIC VIDEO AWARDS, CITY PEOPLE AWARDS etc), Other Awards for her success in the industry includes.
She is an Ambassador for Telecoms Giant, Globacom

SEYI SHAY

Deborah Oluwaseyi Joshua (born December 21, 1985), professionally known by her stage name ‘Seyi Shay’, is a Nigerian based English singer-songwriter, recording artist, performer, and record producer. She wrote and produced three songs for the soundtrack to Konami’s video game Crime Life: Gang Wars (2005).
She also wrote “You Will See”, a song that was included on Melanie C’s third studio album Beautiful Intentions (2005). Shay wrote “White Lies”, a song from Chip’s Transition album.

Liar!!! : We Paid Her Bride Price – Actress Uche Ogbodo’s In-Laws

Another big drama is currently unfolding in the life of Nollywood actress, Uche Ogbodo, only in this case, it is happening in real life. According to latest findings, the actress who claimed she was never married has been put on blast by her in-laws who says she was definitely married to their son and already was bearing their name.Recall that on Thursday June 26, Nollywood actress Uche Ogbodo told reporters in exclusive interview that she had ended her engagement to Norway based ex footballer Ato Ubby because of lies that she could no longer deal with, Infact, she said the union was a no win situation. She also claimed it was not a traditional wedding but an introduction ceremony.

  

The pregnant actress who is presently in America to give birth to her baby was very bitter and says she made the mistake of her life.

Ato who is presently recovering from brain surgery(pictured below) read the interview and was very sad, his friends contacted reporters and gave his number to call him and balance reports which they said maligned ”the character of a good man whose only mistake was falling in love…”

Ato was called and said he was recovering and not in the mood to talk and he sent a the above pic to prove it, he therefore referred newsmen to his parents whom he said might want to talk.

After speaking with Uche’s mother in law, she handed the phone to her husband who said ”we went to her village and paid the bride price and after that she was still bearing her fathers name,i dont know why she didnt change it..if she is saying now that she is not married then she has divorced herself..marriage is not by force.I am the father of Ato and i am telling you now that what she told you is a lie.

I am a servant of God and i cannot tell lies,if she is saying that ”she is not married that means she has rejected us.if she has problems with my son this is the wrong way to go about it but we leave it all to God.I am a veteran Journalist,thank you for balancing this story by calling us because we were shocked when people started calling us to say Uche has denied marrying our son.”

Liar!!! : We Paid Her Bride Price – Actress Uche Ogbodo’s In-Laws

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Another big drama is currently unfolding in the life of Nollywood actress, Uche Ogbodo, only in this case, it is happening in real life. According to latest findings, the actress who claimed she was never married has been put on blast by her in-laws who says she was definitely married to their son and already was bearing their name.Recall that on Thursday June 26, Nollywood actress Uche Ogbodo told reporters in exclusive interview that she had ended her engagement to Norway based ex footballer Ato Ubby because of lies that she could no longer deal with, Infact, she said the union was a no win situation. She also claimed it was not a traditional wedding but an introduction ceremony.

  

The pregnant actress who is presently in America to give birth to her baby was very bitter and says she made the mistake of her life.

Ato who is presently recovering from brain surgery(pictured below) read the interview and was very sad, his friends contacted reporters and gave his number to call him and balance reports which they said maligned ”the character of a good man whose only mistake was falling in love…”

Ato was called and said he was recovering and not in the mood to talk and he sent a the above pic to prove it, he therefore referred newsmen to his parents whom he said might want to talk.

After speaking with Uche’s mother in law, she handed the phone to her husband who said ”we went to her village and paid the bride price and after that she was still bearing her fathers name,i dont know why she didnt change it..if she is saying now that she is not married then she has divorced herself..marriage is not by force.I am the father of Ato and i am telling you now that what she told you is a lie.

I am a servant of God and i cannot tell lies,if she is saying that ”she is not married that means she has rejected us.if she has problems with my son this is the wrong way to go about it but we leave it all to God.I am a veteran Journalist,thank you for balancing this story by calling us because we were shocked when people started calling us to say Uche has denied marrying our son.”

Injured Eagles’ Player Babatunde Michael Charges Team For Glory

The Super Eagles midfielder Babatunde Michael, injured in the second half of the Wednesday game against Argentina, prays for the success of his colleagues at the ongoing World Cup.

The player was ruled out by the Nigerian coach from further participation in the Mundial following the surgery he had undergone to fix the damaged wrist.

After the successful surgery Babatunde has turned into a “prayer warrior” for his team, fcnaija reports.

He supported his colleagues by saying:

“I will be praying for the team and I am sure they will do the nation proud in this World Cup.”

It would be recalled that despite loss to the Group F leader Argentina (2-3), the Nigerian team qualified for the round 16 of the World Cup and will clash with France on Monday, June 30.

Meanwhile Keshi’s men have reportedly resumed training in Brasilia to prepare fro the upcoming game.

Injured Eagles’ Player Babatunde Michael Charges Team For Glory

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The Super Eagles midfielder Babatunde Michael, injured in the second half of the Wednesday game against Argentina, prays for the success of his colleagues at the ongoing World Cup.

The player was ruled out by the Nigerian coach from further participation in the Mundial following the surgery he had undergone to fix the damaged wrist.

After the successful surgery Babatunde has turned into a “prayer warrior” for his team, fcnaija reports.

He supported his colleagues by saying:

“I will be praying for the team and I am sure they will do the nation proud in this World Cup.”

It would be recalled that despite loss to the Group F leader Argentina (2-3), the Nigerian team qualified for the round 16 of the World Cup and will clash with France on Monday, June 30.

Meanwhile Keshi’s men have reportedly resumed training in Brasilia to prepare fro the upcoming game.

Dangote Endorses D’banj’s Koko Garri

One thing I like about D’banj is that when he wants to do something he tries to be the best at it. A lot of people have been mocking him about his koko garri and even called him a joker, but gradually, he is building the brand. He posted a photo of himself with Dangote, where the Africa’s richest man endorsed the product. Good one!

Dangote Endorses D’banj’s Koko Garri

Posted by Sylvester No comments

One thing I like about D’banj is that when he wants to do something he tries to be the best at it. A lot of people have been mocking him about his koko garri and even called him a joker, but gradually, he is building the brand. He posted a photo of himself with Dangote, where the Africa’s richest man endorsed the product. Good one!

Why We Prevented Massive Airlift Of Pilgrims From Maiduguri Airport – DHQ

The Defence Headquarters has said that contrary to reports in many newspapers and online media, it did not close the Maiduguri airport to deny its use for airlift of Muslim pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, instead, the airport was only observing restriction of the facility to military use in view of ongoing military operations in the area.

The Director of Defence Information, Maj. Gen Chris Olukolade, who made the clarification yesterday in a statement, added that the Airport was shut after an assessment of the situation, which indicated that such a massive airlift of passengers could not be permitted in the light of the security threat in the area.

Olukolade explained that if those in charge of the pilgrimage exercise appreciated the present security situation and the implication of such massive airlift of passengers, they would have ensured that proper security procedure was in place before embarking on the ‘important’ exercise.

“Apparently, the implications of such massive airlift and traffic from the facility in the light of present security situation was not appreciated early enough by those planning the exercise to enable proper security procedure be installed for the important exercise”, he said.

The Defence spokesman, however, added that an alternative arrangement with the relevant authorities in Borno State had been put in place to continue with the exercise, which, he said, had been going on smoothly despite the inconvenience.

The Defence Spokesman urged the public to exercise caution to avoid playing into the hands of those deliberately undermining national security.

“The sensitivity of the situation in the country calls for due caution and conscious effort to avoid yielding to the pressure from those who are apparently sympathetic to those working frantically to undermine the nation’s security.

“The public is therefore requested to ignore all insinuations inferring religious or political connotations from the security measures put in place in Maiduguri airport. The intention has never been to jeopardize the airlifting of pilgrims as has been wrongly portrayed”, the statement read.

Maj-Gen. Olukolade also appealed to the media not to allow itself to be used by those he described as “seeking to make political or economic capital out of the security situation by insinuating a religious or political connotation to every effort”, insisting that “the restriction in the airport is purely for security reasons”.

Why We Prevented Massive Airlift Of Pilgrims From Maiduguri Airport – DHQ

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The Defence Headquarters has said that contrary to reports in many newspapers and online media, it did not close the Maiduguri airport to deny its use for airlift of Muslim pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, instead, the airport was only observing restriction of the facility to military use in view of ongoing military operations in the area.

The Director of Defence Information, Maj. Gen Chris Olukolade, who made the clarification yesterday in a statement, added that the Airport was shut after an assessment of the situation, which indicated that such a massive airlift of passengers could not be permitted in the light of the security threat in the area.

Olukolade explained that if those in charge of the pilgrimage exercise appreciated the present security situation and the implication of such massive airlift of passengers, they would have ensured that proper security procedure was in place before embarking on the ‘important’ exercise.

“Apparently, the implications of such massive airlift and traffic from the facility in the light of present security situation was not appreciated early enough by those planning the exercise to enable proper security procedure be installed for the important exercise”, he said.

The Defence spokesman, however, added that an alternative arrangement with the relevant authorities in Borno State had been put in place to continue with the exercise, which, he said, had been going on smoothly despite the inconvenience.

The Defence Spokesman urged the public to exercise caution to avoid playing into the hands of those deliberately undermining national security.

“The sensitivity of the situation in the country calls for due caution and conscious effort to avoid yielding to the pressure from those who are apparently sympathetic to those working frantically to undermine the nation’s security.

“The public is therefore requested to ignore all insinuations inferring religious or political connotations from the security measures put in place in Maiduguri airport. The intention has never been to jeopardize the airlifting of pilgrims as has been wrongly portrayed”, the statement read.

Maj-Gen. Olukolade also appealed to the media not to allow itself to be used by those he described as “seeking to make political or economic capital out of the security situation by insinuating a religious or political connotation to every effort”, insisting that “the restriction in the airport is purely for security reasons”.

Luiz Suarez Denies Biting Giorgio Chiellini

More than 48 hours after football by governing body, FIFA, slammed Luis Suarez with a four month ban for biting Giorgio Chiellini, the Uruguayan striker has finally come out to speak on what happened between him and the Italian defender.

Television pictures had shown that the Uruguay striker committed his third biting offence in four years during Tuesday’s World Cup match against Italy.

But Suarez claims there is no way he would deliberately bite Chiellini, saying he ‘lost his balance’ and ‘in no way’ bit Chiellini.

Suarez will miss tonight’s last 16 tie against Colombia, but in the written defence he submitted to FIFA,  he maintained his claim that the incident has been misunderstood.

“In no way [did] it happen how you have described, as a bite or intent to bite,’ the Liverpool man wrote.

He continued: “After the impact I lost my balance, making my body unstable and falling on top of my opponent.

“At that moment I hit my face against the player leaving a small bruise on my cheek and a strong pain in my teeth.”

Suarez returned to Uruguay on Thursday night after FIFA gave their verdict, but was still given a hero’s welcome by fans who continue to stand by him.

Since FIFA announced the ban on Suarez, there have been reports that Liverpool is ready to sell the Uruguayan to Barcelona if the Spanish giants are ready to meet the asking price.

Luiz Suarez Denies Biting Giorgio Chiellini

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More than 48 hours after football by governing body, FIFA, slammed Luis Suarez with a four month ban for biting Giorgio Chiellini, the Uruguayan striker has finally come out to speak on what happened between him and the Italian defender.

Television pictures had shown that the Uruguay striker committed his third biting offence in four years during Tuesday’s World Cup match against Italy.

But Suarez claims there is no way he would deliberately bite Chiellini, saying he ‘lost his balance’ and ‘in no way’ bit Chiellini.

Suarez will miss tonight’s last 16 tie against Colombia, but in the written defence he submitted to FIFA,  he maintained his claim that the incident has been misunderstood.

“In no way [did] it happen how you have described, as a bite or intent to bite,’ the Liverpool man wrote.

He continued: “After the impact I lost my balance, making my body unstable and falling on top of my opponent.

“At that moment I hit my face against the player leaving a small bruise on my cheek and a strong pain in my teeth.”

Suarez returned to Uruguay on Thursday night after FIFA gave their verdict, but was still given a hero’s welcome by fans who continue to stand by him.

Since FIFA announced the ban on Suarez, there have been reports that Liverpool is ready to sell the Uruguayan to Barcelona if the Spanish giants are ready to meet the asking price.

Yobo: Group Stage Hurdle Toughened Us For The Task Ahead

Joseph Yobo hopes the spell of positive outcomes continues in favour of the Nigeria national team, who he says are fired up to face the best in the knockout stage of the World Cup.

Joseph Yobo Answers the Media During a Press Briefing.

The Super Eagles are rated far outsiders to pip France to the quarter-finals of the tournament, as both nations prepare for a crucial last-16 battle on Monday, but skipper Yobo insists his side are ready to scale the most difficult hurdle on their part to glory.

Two encouraging results against Bosnia-Hercegovina and Argentina has returned “confidence” back in coach Stephen Keshi’s squad who were hidden in the disappointment of an uninspiring draw against Iran after their first match in Brazil, but it can always get better for the side that fought back from drawing their first two matches to clinching a third Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) title in South Africa last year.

“I’ve played in this side for many years, so I’ve been able to see it evolve,” Yobo told Fifa.com.

“We won the Africa Cup of Nations, booked our place in the World Cup without any trouble and now we’ve qualified for the second round. It’s not often that I’ve experienced so many pieces of good news in a row.

“That shows you we’re improving. This team is young, but it’s growing fast and learning quickly. We’re taking confidence from our campaign so that it can help us in our next match.”

Having featured in two World Cup campaigns prior to Brazil, Yobo, 33, is an undisputed leader on and off the pitch and will crown his commitment to the West African nation with a 100 international cap against France, if selected.

Those experience have defied even the most terrific skills of many attackers in the past and is still raring to go. ‘Les Bleus’ are sure to provide another probing examination, particularly with Karim Benzema in a form of his life but such threat does not faze the Fenerbahce defender again.

“We’ve just played against the best forward in the world, so we’re ready to measure ourselves against anybody,” said Yobo, before adding with a grin: “I don’t see what we should be afraid of. I believe in this team, and I think we can do it.”

“If we don’t win the next game, there won’t be a 102nd cap and so on. But what if I can make it to 104 in Brazil?”

Yobo: Group Stage Hurdle Toughened Us For The Task Ahead

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Joseph Yobo hopes the spell of positive outcomes continues in favour of the Nigeria national team, who he says are fired up to face the best in the knockout stage of the World Cup.

Joseph Yobo Answers the Media During a Press Briefing.

The Super Eagles are rated far outsiders to pip France to the quarter-finals of the tournament, as both nations prepare for a crucial last-16 battle on Monday, but skipper Yobo insists his side are ready to scale the most difficult hurdle on their part to glory.

Two encouraging results against Bosnia-Hercegovina and Argentina has returned “confidence” back in coach Stephen Keshi’s squad who were hidden in the disappointment of an uninspiring draw against Iran after their first match in Brazil, but it can always get better for the side that fought back from drawing their first two matches to clinching a third Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) title in South Africa last year.

“I’ve played in this side for many years, so I’ve been able to see it evolve,” Yobo told Fifa.com.

“We won the Africa Cup of Nations, booked our place in the World Cup without any trouble and now we’ve qualified for the second round. It’s not often that I’ve experienced so many pieces of good news in a row.

“That shows you we’re improving. This team is young, but it’s growing fast and learning quickly. We’re taking confidence from our campaign so that it can help us in our next match.”

Having featured in two World Cup campaigns prior to Brazil, Yobo, 33, is an undisputed leader on and off the pitch and will crown his commitment to the West African nation with a 100 international cap against France, if selected.

Those experience have defied even the most terrific skills of many attackers in the past and is still raring to go. ‘Les Bleus’ are sure to provide another probing examination, particularly with Karim Benzema in a form of his life but such threat does not faze the Fenerbahce defender again.

“We’ve just played against the best forward in the world, so we’re ready to measure ourselves against anybody,” said Yobo, before adding with a grin: “I don’t see what we should be afraid of. I believe in this team, and I think we can do it.”

“If we don’t win the next game, there won’t be a 102nd cap and so on. But what if I can make it to 104 in Brazil?”