Suicide attack targets government officials in Peshawar

Peshawar, Pakistan - A suicide bomber targeted a government van in the northwestern Pakistani city of Peshawar, killing at least one person and wounding several others, officials said.

Pakistani Taliban, Tehreek e-Taliban, claimed Wednesday's attack which follows a recent surge in violence across the country.

"We claim responsibility for the suicide attack on the vehicle of the judiciary. The man who carried out the suicide attack was the brave warrior Sabir Swati," the group said in a statement, as it warned of further attacks.

"Remember that the Pakistani judiciary and those [...] who work for it are an obstacle to the imposition of an Islamic system. These people are the reason for mujahideen [fighters] being imprisoned or executed."

The attacker, who rammed his motorcycle into the van, appeared to be targeting government judicial employees in the Hayatabad area, police officials said.

"There was a suicide bomber on a motorcycle … the driver of the van has been killed, and four others have been wounded," said senior police official Sajjad Ahmed, speaking to media at the site of the explosion.

Tauheed Zulfiqar, a spokesperson for the nearby Hayatabad Medical Complex where the wounded were being treated, confirmed the death toll.

Images of the blast showed the mangled wreckage of the van crashed into a low wall, with its windows and doors badly damaged.

Police cordoned off the site and deployed a security perimeter.

"We have found body parts of the bomber as well as his motorcycle, which hit the van," said Ahmed. "We have started a search operation, we will be able to share more information after it is completed."

Muhammad Tahir, Peshawar's police chief, said: "The initial analysis shows that at least 15kg of explosives were used in this attack."

Prominent opposition politician Imran Khan was due to visit the nearby Hayatabad Medical Complex later in the day, and police had been directed to secure the area.

A bomb disposal unit team and additional security had been dispatched to the area hours earlier, police sources said.

"Security was on high alert, because [Imran Khan] had to go to this hospital," provincial Information Minister Mushtaq Ghani told local television channel Dawn.

The attack came hours after a suicide bombing at a government office in the nearby Mohmand tribal area, which killed at least five people, including three policemen and two civilians.

On Monday, at least 13 people were killed when a suicide blast targeted police officers at a protest in the eastern city of Lahore.

I, Ikedi Benjamin Onwuka Will Be The President Of Biafra, Not Nnamdi Kanu!!

The leader of the Biafra Zionist Federation (BZF), Barr. Benjamin Onwuka, who was reportedly released from prison 24hours ago, has vowed to restore the Republic of Biafra by March 15, 2017.

Recall that the pro-Biafra leader had three years ago stormed the Enugu Broadcasting Service (ESBS) with intention to make a live broadcast, in order to declare Biafra, but midway, security operatives acting on a tip-off, stormed the broadcast station and rounded up 12 of the BZF members, including Onwuka. ?He was, later incarcerated for three years.

Speaking with journalists at a press briefing in Enugu on Tuesday just few hours after regaining his freedom, Onwuka, who was exuding much confidence, said that there was no going back on Biafra.

He stressed that the re-enactment of Biafra Independence stemmed from the diplomatic relations his group, the BZF, had establised with America, the Great Britain and some other world powers.

“The state of Biafra will be announced on March 15, 2017 by the Zionist Federation. I, Ikedi Benjamin Onwuka will be leading Biafra. I will be the President of Biafra.

“The work we have done underground permits that America will endorse the Independent state of Biafra in March 15, 2017; we expect that this will come with the endorsement of President Donald Trump”, he stated.

He further claimed that ex-President Barrack Obama of the United States of America, approved the policy for an independent state of Biafra on October 15, 2014 and also garnered support for Biafra from Great Britain, France, Israel, Russia and some other world powers.

Onwuka added that it was incumbent on President Donald Trump to implement the action “since a siting President in America usually do not ignore foreign policies established by their predecessors.

“My confidence on President Donald Trump endorsing the restoration of an Independent state of Biafra hinges on the fact that ex-President Barack Obama made the approval.

“Since 2015, Biafra has been accepted worldwide due to diplomatic groundwork. Without America’s support, there will be no Biafra. Now that we have gotten America’s support, Biafra Independence is realizable.”

He attributed the failure to realize the Biafra project in 1967 by the late Biafra leader, Dim Emeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, to lack of diplomatic relations with world powers.

On the perceived friction among the various pro-Biafra groups, he said:? “There will never be a day when all the pro Biafra groups will agree on every issue but the ‘Zionists’ have taken the upper hand because we established diplomatic ties with America, Great Britain and other world powers.

“The MASSOB, the IPOB and others are under the zionists; the IPOB for instance has never gone beyond River Niger. All that Nnamdi Kanu is doing is to be insulting everybody through his radio; he is not even sparing America and Britain. So, you can even see that his actions are inimical to the Biafra dream.

“The mistake our leaders made in 1967 was based on the fact that they failed to establish diplomatic relations with Russia, America and Great Britain.? Nnamdi Kanu is still toeing the same line.”

Onwuka disclosed that the new Biafra territory stretched beyond South East zone and Niger Delta regions to include Kogi, Benue, Nasarrawa states and many tribes in the middle belt.

“Also the maligned and maltreated people of Southern Kaduna, several enclaves within the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja, including Seme Boarder in Lagos state to parts of Cameroon are part of us”, he claimed.

“It is going to be a Biafra nation for all. The Igbo tribe will not dominate the Ijaw or Igala tribe. There will be no discrimination. It will be a government of all. No person or region will have an upper hand. There will be free press. It is the bedrock of democracy.

“All those who died in the struggle will not be forgotten. Those who laid down their lives in the Biafra struggle paid the highest price. We would look for their families and take care of them”, Onwuka stated.

IT Officers At Inland Containers Nigeria Limited

Inland Containers Nigeria Limited, is a fully indigenous organization incorporated in February, 1980 to provide Port Services to the hinterland shipping communities in the country. The Company was born out of necessity and packaged as a veritable intervention facilitator to assist the rapid industrialization and development of the hinterland.

We are recruiting to fill the position of:

Job Title: I.T Officer

Location: Lagos

Job Description
Assist in implementing IT Strategies, policies and proceduresPlan, design and maintain data networks and servers
Administer day-to-day operations of networks and serversImplement LAN/WAN maintenance and Management proceduresImplement relational database management software (e.g. SQL Server) and SQL with windows XP/Unit client/server environmentSupport and maintain computer software systems.
Create accounts for new users in the company's active directory server and assigns access rights to software applications.Install client/server applications and essential software patches then carry out any required maintenance of applications and identify compatibility issues
Check out new computers on arrival and install as appropriateAssist in maintenance of computer peripheral equipment such as scanners, printers and ensure that these are prepared and ready to be used.
Assist Head, Information Technology in the deployment of computer hardware around the companyKeep a log of all technical faults and respond as necessary
Requirements
Minimum of first degree in Computer/System/Electrical/Electronic Engineering/Applied Physics/ Computer Science or a related discipline is required.Relevant professional certification/s is an advantage.Minimum of 3 years relevant work experience in the Information Technology industry.
Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV's to:recruitment@inlandcontainers.net

I.T Officer at Inland Containers Nigeria Limited

Inland Containers Nigeria Limited, is a fully indigenous organization incorporated in February, 1980 to provide Port Services to the hinterland shipping communities in the country. The Company was born out of necessity and packaged as a veritable intervention facilitator to assist the rapid industrialization and development of the hinterland.We are recruiting to fill the position of:
Job Title: I.T Officer
Location: Lagos

Job Description
Assist in implementing IT Strategies, policies and proceduresPlan, design and maintain data networks and serversAdminister day-to-day operations of networks and serversImplement LAN/WAN maintenance and Management proceduresImplement relational database management software (e.g. SQL Server) and SQL with windows XP/Unit client/server environmentSupport and maintain computer software systemsCreate accounts for new users in the company's active directory server and assigns access rights to software applications.Install client/server applications and essential software patches then carry out any required maintenance of applications and identify compatibility issuesCheck out new computers on arrival and install as appropriateAssist in maintenance of computer peripheral equipment such as scanners, printers and ensure that these are prepared and ready to be used.Assist Head, Information Technology in the deployment of computer hardware around the companyKeep a log of all technical faults and respond as necessary 

Apply at https://ngcareers.com/job/2017-02/i-t-officer-at-inland-containers-nigeria-limited-484/

Plant Operator at Inland Containers Nigeria Limited

Inland Containers Nigeria Limited is a fully indigenous organization incorporated in February, 1980 to provide Port Services to the hinterland shipping communities in the country. The Company was born out of necessity and packaged as a veritable intervention facilitator to assist the rapid industrialization and development of the hinterland.We are recruiting to fill the position of: 

Job Title: Plant Operator

Location: LagosJob DescriptionOperate the plant and equipment (i.e. Forklift, Crane, Reach Stacker etc) to ensure optimal functionality for movement of containers around the Tarmac

Unload inbound shipments safely and move cargo to warehouse/storage locations. Efficiently stack and store the cargo in the appropriate areas.

Act to ensure inbound and outbound shipments are accurate and free of damage and report quality variances to the Warehouse Supervisor.

Maintain a clean, neat and orderly work area and plantCarry out daily routine cleaning and maintenance of plantMaintain daily log of equipment use and container movementCarry out safety checks on equipments daily 

Apply at https://ngcareers.com/job/2017-02/plant-operator-at-inland-containers-nigeria-limited-805/

Job vacancy: Maintenance Head for Steel Plant-Long Product at African Industries Group

African Industries Group is involved in various steel products, industrial chemicals and other commodities. African Industries Group has been operating in Nigeria since 1970’s and is involved in trading and manufacturing of various industrial products. The group was founded by Mr. P.K.Gupta and is still promoted and managed by the Gupta family, supported by a wide and growing range of professional managers and consultants, selected worldwide among the best available sources. On the trading side the Group is continuously expanding and ranging from steel products and industrial chemicals to other basic commodities. In parallel, in the last decade.
Job Title:
Maintenance Head for Steel Plant-Long Product & nbsp;

Job description
Planning, Scheduling & Monitoring of Rolling Mill Maintenance.Responsible for major breakdown analysis and suggest improvement in maintainability of the equipments/ systems used.

Apply at https://ngcareers.com/job/2017-02/maintenance-head-for-steel-plant-long-product-at-african-industries-group-651/

Job Vacancy: Sales Engineers at Stag Engineering Nigeria Limited

Stag Engineering Nigeria Limited is a leading wholly Nigerian owned engineering firm in Nigeria. The company has over 40 years’ experience in providing expert engineering services and mercantile power to discerning clients in Nigeria and West Africa. At present it delivers over 1,000MW of mercantile power to these clients. The company has recently expanded into the marine and will be expanding its expertise to railway solutions in 2013.Sales Engineer - Diesel & Gas Generators - 2 positions Locations: Port-Harcourt & Lagos
Key Responsibilities
Tracking of current customer base requirements and converting new business opportunities.
Ensuring accurate information on competitors to support marketing strategies.
Regularly interacting with the customer on product performance and offering timely assistance in the resolution of all queries. 

Apply at https://ngcareers.com/job/2017-02/sales-engineers-at-stag-engineering-nbsp-nigeria-limited-960/

LONDON JOB OPPORTUNITY

Location: London
Pay: £500- £600(negotiable)
Contract/Interim
Sector: Information Technology
Establishment: LA International Computer Consultants Limited

Head of Product Management - Digital and Agile 
12 months 
London 
ASAP 

£500-600pd Negotiable

My Government Client are currently looking for a Head of Product Management to join their organisation on a contract basis.

The Head of Product Management will be accountable for ensuring all people performing the role of product manager across the Defra group have the appropriate skills, as well as access to the right support, learning and development to capably lead agile teams to deliver customer focused services. 

Skills required: 

*be a recognised expert in the field of agile product management and have experience of a wide range of agile and lean tools and techniques 
*have experience of leading and growing product management in an agile environment 
*be a skilled team leader 
*be confidently able to communicate the value of the role to digital and no digital stakeholders 
*be able to build credibility and influence across a range of stakeholders or a range of seniority 
*have demonstrable experience of performance and people management

LA International Computer Consultants Ltd is an HMG Approved Consultancy and operates as an IT & Engineering Consultancy or as an Employment Business & Agency, depending upon the precise nature of the work, for security cleared jobs or non-clearance vacancies, we welcome applications from all sections of the community and from people with diverse experience and backgrounds. Award Winning LA International Computer Consultants Ltd (Recruiter Awards for Excellence - Best IT, Best Public Sector & Gold Awards) and the most prestigious award that any business can receive The Queens Award for Enterprise: International Trade 2015.

Sheerly amazing! Britney Spears wows in transparent starburst frock at Clive Davis Grammy Party

While she won a Grammy back in 2005, she was not nominated for one this year.

But Britney Spears was still determined to draw quite a bit of attention, if her transparent outfit was any indication.

The 35-year-old pop legend showed off her stunning body on the red carpet in a sheer number that stopped at her mid-thigh.

Loving the limelight: Britney Spears was still determined to draw quite a bit of attention, if her transparent outfit was any indication

While some strategically placed shiny starbursts covered her nipples, the Toxic singer still put on an extremely busty display thanks to the frock's extremely thin material.

A nude second layer did hide the most vital bits below, but was still small enough to provide a clear look at her impressive abs.

The thigh-skimming garment also showcased Britney's dance-honed legs. 

Not shy: While some strategically placed shiny starbursts covered her nipples, the Toxic singer still put on an extremely busty display thanks to the frock's extremely thin materialNot shy: While some strategically placed shiny starbursts covered her nipples, the Toxic singer still put on an extremely busty display thanks to the frock's extremely thin materialThe simple part: Some very delicate nude heels completed the eye-popping ensemble

Some very delicate nude heels completed the eye-popping ensemble.

Her famous blonde locks were parted in the middle and fell in golden waves down past her shoulders.

She employed some light-rose lipstick, and subtle blush, although her deep scarlet eye shadow was most prominent.

Fringe benefits! Songstress Rita Ora, 26, looked sensational in a glossy black sleeveless bodysuit that featured a shredded patternFringe benefits! Songstress Rita Ora, 26, looked sensational in a glossy black sleeveless bodysuit that featured a shredded patternAward-worthy! Mary J Blige, 46, looked like a million bucks in a shimmering gold wrap dress which featured a very short hemA little of everything: Of course Kourtney Kardashian, 37, stunned on the carpet as always in a complex dress consisting of a bralette, a mesh bodice and skirt portion featuring multiple slashesVery unique: Momager Kris Jenner, 61, opted for a slightly more cryptic look in an all black velvet outfit with a large white chandelier printed on the torso

While Britney is obviously a musical superstar, there were many other celebs in attendance as well. 

Songstress Rita Ora, 26, looked sensational in a glossy black sleeveless bodysuit that featured a shredded pattern.

Shiny tassels bordered the whole garment, which added drama to the already head-turning outfit.

Ecclectic: Paris Jackson, 18, delighted in a low-cut lacy number which also included some interesting nature prints below the waistLike a fairy tale! Royals singer Lorde, 20, seemed to channel a whimsical vibe in a dark glittering gown which she layered over a simple white tee

Mary J Blige, 46, looked like a million bucks in a shimmering gold wrap dress which featured a very short hem.

Some very appropriate gold stilettos and shiny clutch rounded out the eye-catching look.

Of course Kourtney Kardashian, 37, stunned on the carpet as always in a complex dress consisting of a bralette, a mesh bodice and skirt portion featuring multiple slashes.

Bold: British crooner Jessie J, 28, also chose a very unique look, opting for an almost comically oversize navy blue suit under which she opted to go bra freeNot too formal: The multi-talented Jennifer Hudson, 35, embraced sheer in a lacy black pantsuit that also put her ample assets on full displayHistory in the making! Jennifer also got a snap with the man of the hour, Clive Davis, aged 84

Momager Kris Jenner, 61, opted for a slightly more cryptic look in an all black velvet outfit with a large white chandelier printed on the torso.

Paris Jackson, 18, delighted in a low-cut lacy number which also included some interesting nature prints below the waist. 

As it was a party hosted by one of the foremost music executives currently living, many more musical talents were present as well.

Va va voom! Nicole Sherzinger, 38, definitely was not bashful in a partially translucent dress which showed off her underwear and lack of a braVa va voom! Nicole Sherzinger, 38, definitely was not bashful in a partially translucent dress which showed off her underwear and lack of a braSnazzy dressers: Sean Garrett looked smart in a white, black and gray three-piece suit Holdin' on tight: Paul Stanley and Erin Sutton cleaned up well for their red carpet appearance

Royals singer Lorde, 20, seemed to channel a whimsical vibe in a dark glittering gown which she layered over a simple white tee.

British crooner Jessie J, 28, also chose a very unique look, opting for an almost comically oversize navy blue suit under which she opted to go bra free.

She accessorized with a gigantic crucifix earring and a gold crucifix necklace. 

The multi-talented Jennifer Hudson, 35, embraced sheer in a lacy black pantsuit that also put her ample assets on full display.

She later changed for a performance at the event, wearing  an angelic white lace number with a plunging neckline and mesh insert. 

Switch up! She later changed for a performance at the event, wearing an angelic white lace number with a plunging neckline and mesh insertCool and comfortable: Pillowtalk singer Zayn Malik, 24, looked dashing in a bead-embroidered jacket, black turtleneck, skinny black trousers and patent leather oxfordsUnexpected duo: Rapper Wiz Khalifa, 29, donned only a simple suit with no tie for the event, but surprised regardless by showing up with ex Amber Rose, 33, on his armAffectionate: The exes got close on the carpet, with Wiz giving Amber a kiss on the forehead

A diamond necklace, bracelet and several rings added a bling factor.

Nicole Sherzinger, 38, definitely was not bashful in a partially translucent dress which showed off her underwear and lack of a bra. 

Pillowtalk singer Zayn Malik, 24, looked dashing in a bead-embroidered jacket, black turtleneck, skinny black trousers and patent leather oxfords.

Rapper Wiz Khalifa, 29, donned only a simple suit with no tie for the event, but surprised regardless by showing up with ex Amber Rose, 33, on his arm. 

Fresh off publicity for the last season of Girls, actress Lena Dunham, 30, donned a floral frock with a thick velvet overcoat.  

Dismayed? Fresh off publicity for the last season of Girls, actress Lena Dunham, 30, donned a floral frock with a thick velvet overcoatAll smiles: Halsey grins broadly in an interesting turtleneck, one-sleeve velour jumpsuitShowed up for this: Renee Bargh, 30, wore a Michael Lo Sordo number with a sky-high slit

Australian beauty Renee Bargh wore a navy blue silk draped dress by Michael Lo Sordo that featured a sky-high slit and showcased the TV presenter's mile-long legs.

Meanwhile, Tamar Braxton put her best foot forward in a see-through black Alexia Klein gown.

She paired the intricately designed dress with a pair of Christian Louboutin heels, a Bottega Veneta clutch, and Cartier jewelry. 

Smart dresser: Aloe Blacc looked snazzy in a patterned button-down jacket Looking good: Tamar Braxton put her best foot forward in a see-through black Alexia Klein gownCleaned up well: Actor Peter Fonda (L) and Parky Devogelaere (R) looked classy at the eventBreaking necks: Lea Michele and Rachel Platten dropped jaws in floor-length black gowns

‘Niger Delta will have a better deal under President Muhammadu Buhari.’

The group also described the announcement made during the visit by the Minister of State for Petroleum , Dr. Ibe Kachukwu on the proposed 20-points agenda to be unveiled by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) as commendable and a show of competence.

In a statement issued in Yenagoa after its participation at the Interactive session the Acting President had with key stakeholders,‎ the group stated that the openness displayed by Osinbajo and the Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu showed that the people of the Niger Delta will have a better deal under President Muhammadu Buhari.

The statement , signed by ‎the group’s Secretary General, Ambassador Prince Tonye Jeminimieme, howver called on the people of the Niger Delta region to be calm and maintain the existing peace for the Federal Government to redeem it’s pledge of pragmatic development and peace in the region.

The group however stated that though the people have consciously participated in the discussions and profer solutions, “we are asking the Federal Government to inaugurate it’s team that will work in tardem with PANDEF to review and consider the 16 points agenda including the Ledum Mitee report and others.

“The Federal Government and the honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources should set up a ‎committee to investigate non-compliance to GMoUs and Corporate Social Responsibilities by IOCs that causes over 60 per cent of crises between host communities and oil companies and call for review of the formula.”

“We urge the Federal Government and National Assembly to pass a law that the PIB Bill and establish the Nigeria Merchant Navy Bill to enhance security on our waterways. Federal Government should expedite action in the commencement of the Bonny LNG and the Brass LNG.

We call on the Federal Government to build five functional sea ports of international standard for the region. We also urge the Federal Government to commence clean up processes of the Koluama Oil Spill in Bayelsa.

“We also urge the Federal Government to make an upward review of the derivation formula and consider strongly the inclusion of indigenous firms and the allocation of Oil blocks,” the group stated.

Niger Airport better Kaduna’s – Sani Bello fumes during meeting with Saraki

Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, has insisited that Minna Airport is better than the one in Kaduna.

He also appealed to the Federal Government to fix Minna Airport to save the country from impending national embarrassment.

Sani Bello made the appeal when he led a team of political leaders from the state to pay the Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki a courtesy visit in his office in Abuja.

The governor said the visit was to seek for the support of the National Assembly for the completion of Minna-Suleja Road, the abandoned terminal wing of Minna Airport and the road network to Baro Inland Port by the federal government.

He argued that the fixing of Minna Airport, which requires less than N300 million would have given the country another alternative to Kaduna airport and provide airline operators opportunity to choose while the rehabilitation works on Abuja airport lasted.

The governor maintained that Niger state was not opposed to the selection of Kaduna airport, but noted that the Minna airport has more comparative advantages over the preffered airport.

“Minna is a natural alternative to Nmandi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. It is nearer to Abuja and has a better run-way than Kaduna Airport.

“With the controversies the selection of Kaduna airport is already generating with airline operators, we need to fix Minna airport, being the closest to the capital airport, give airline operators alternatives to choose from and safe the country national embarrassment.

“From what I am seeing in the way we are handling the rehabilitation of of capital airport, if not carefully plan, we are heading for national embarrassment,” Sani Bello cautioned.

According to the governor, “The contractor handling the rehabilitation of Minna airport is on ground with all the equipment needed to complete the project.

“All he needs is less than N300 million. Our runway is one of the best and we are the closest to Abuja”.

Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki, corroborated issues raised by Sani Bello, stressing that lack of options of airports was responsible for the fire brigade approach of solving the Abuja airport.

“It is true Minna airport is the closest and the runway in good condition. It is not good we limit ourselves to one airport as Mr. Governor has said”.

Saraki agreed that the situation should be salvaged but expressed concern that the much touted repair of the Nnamidi Azikiwe Airport was not even captured in either the 2016 or 2017 budget.

“Mr. Governor the issues of Minna-Suleja Road and the airport and the Baro Port are very critical, they are not only in the interest of Niger State but that of national and they require our support.”

Ex-NNPC boss N3.04 billion loot: Columnist, Kperogi, slams Buhari’s anti-corruption war

Columnist and academic, Farooq Kperogi, has faulted President Muhammadu Buhari-led government’s anti-corruption war.

In an interview with PREMIUM TIMES, the journalism professor said the government’s anti-corruption war was driven largely by propaganda as none of those alleged to have embezzled public funds in the president’s cabinet had been investigated.

Reacting to the recovery of N3.04 billion loot at the residence of Andrew Yakubu, a former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, in Kaduna by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Mr. Kperogi noted that even though the effort was commendable, Nigerians need to exercise caution on the discovery.

An operation conducted by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on February 3 on a building belonging to a Mr. Yakubu yielded $9,772,800 (Nine Million, Seven Hundred and Seventy Two Thousand, Eight Hundred United States Dollars) and another sum of £74,000 (Seventy Four Thousand Pound Sterling) cash.

In his reaction, Mr. Kperogi said, indeed, enormous theft of public funds took place in the last administration.

“Most people who have deep emotional investment in Nigeria know that unbelievably enormous and conscienceless theft of the public treasury took place in the Goodluck Jonathan administration. So this doesn’t surprise me.”

He, however, said Nigerians should exercise caution, adding that the EFCC has become a propaganda machinery of the Nigerian government and the ruling APC.

“But we need to be a little circumspect here. Given that the EFCC has become the poodle of the president and the most potent propaganda arm of the APC, I take anything from it with a pinch of salt,” he said.

“The president has nine media aides and a vast, well-oiled propaganda centre. They are now working day and night to distract the attention of the Nigerian people from the crying incompetence of the administration and from the profound hurt the incompetence, clannishness and unpreparedness of the administration are wreaking on Nigeria.

“The more nakedly transparent the cluelessness and ineptitude of the administration becomes, the more propaganda will be unleashed to the Nigerian people to absolve of it of responsibility for its own incompetent choices or lack thereof.”

He noted further that none of the corrupt officials in the government of President Buhari has so far been investigated, adding that it is so because such would have little propaganda value.

“More millions and billions in raw cash will be discovered in the houses of past government officials in the coming days. Of course, none of the insanely corrupt officials of the Buhari administration will be investigated, much less found guilty of hoarding large sums of money, by the EFCC. That has zero propaganda value,” he noted.

Commenting further, Mr. Kperogi asserted that there is no difference between the ruling APC and the ousted PDP, noting that both parties are peopled by corrupt politicians.

“But the truth is that APC and PDP are indistinguishable. They are both peopled by the same thieving, opportunistic leeches. The narrative that these EFCC ‘discoveries’ want to give fresh life to is the idea that it is Jonathan, not Buhari, who is responsible for the current terrible state of Nigeria’s economy.

“It’s a narrative that seeks to conceal the fact that Buhari’s ill-advised decision to increase petrol prices is the immediate trigger for the current hyperinflation in the country, that Buhari’s choice to travel the world for months while leaving Nigeria basically ungoverned during that period contributed to our current state, and that the government’s lack of any blueprint to turn the economic fortunes of the country is also blameworthy.”

He, however, disclosed that the government does not have an economic team, noting that a diplomat posted to the office of the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, had been acting as ‘economic adviser’.

“The administration doesn’t even have a well-defined economic team; it only has a diplomat that it calls an economic adviser to the president—who is posted to the Vice President’s office.

Sokoto Governor Dissolves Internal Revenue Board

Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal has approved the dissolution of the management committee of the State Board of Internal Revenue.

The State Commissioner of Finance, Alhaji Saidu Umar, in a statement, said a nine-member interim management committee had been constituted, pending when a substantive board would be appointed.

The commissioner urged the new appointees to develop a ”holistic road map” that would strengthen the board.

According to him, the state government will provide necessary support to the new team, headed by Aminu Dalhatu, to enable it achieve optimum results.

The governor had at a recent stakeholders’ forum, promised to reposition the board to enable it to discharge its responsibilities diligently and efficiently.

Government intensifies crude oil pipeline agreement from Niger Republic

NNPC Director Says Project Will Benefit Nation 

Officials of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), have said the Federal Government joint venture with Niger Republic to run pipeline supplying crude oil to the Kaduna Refining and Petrol Chemical Company (KRPC) plant will ensure efficient and uninterrupted production and supply of petroleum products in the country.

Besides, government’s decision to enter into the agreement may have arisen from activities of the Niger Delta militants in the oil-producing region, where crude oil installations are under constant threat of attack.

Mallam Mohammed Lawal, member, Board of Directors of NNPC, who spoke on the progress made on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government of Niger Republic on the project, said this is not the first time Nigeria is entering into such a joint agreement, and that it will enhance the capacity of production of petroleum products in our country.

He said: “We are in the preliminary stage of the project. If this crude is refined in KRPC, it is not only the Kaduna people or the North that will benefit from it, as it will serve the entire country. Nigeria is losing a lot of revenue from the sector due to the activities of the militants, and we have the KRPC there in Kaduna, which is some kilometres from Niger. Now that we have an agreement with Niger Republic, I think we should exploit that avenue to ensure that there is adequate supply of crude to Kaduna refinery for constant production and supply of fuel and other products in the country.

“And this partnership will bring a lot of revenue to Nigeria. Also, the issue of Turn Around Maintenance (TAM) of Kaduna refinery is very crucial to the performance of the plant. Now that this joint agreement is on, we should really take this TAM of the plant seriously, so that we take advantage of the crude that will be pumped into the plant from that country.”

Southern Kaduna: Hoodlums destroy military base foundation

Only rubbles remained yesterday of the foundation stone of the planned military base in Ungwan Yashi area of Zangon Kataf Local Government, Southern Kaduna after an attack by suspected hoodlums overnight.

The foundation stone was laid on penultimate Saturday by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen Tukur Buratai, as part of efforts to step up security in the area and reduce the incessant killings by Fulani herdsmen and the locals.

A furious Governor Nasir El-Rufai lashed out at the vandals yesterday and vowed that they won’t go unpunished.

Government, he said in a statement by his spokesman, Samuel Aruwan, would not give in to “obstacles and setback to its stabilisation and peace building efforts by destructive elements.”

He branded the destruction of the foundation stone as unfortunate, condemnable and a setback to government’s peace initiative.

His words: “I received the news with shock over the unfortunate destruction of foundation laid for the proposed Nigerian Army Battalion in Southern Kaduna.

”The very structure we erected to establish the long-awaited Army Barracks to assist in promotion of peace and end the decades of senseless blood-shedding, in the southern part of Kaduna State.

“The situation is unfortunate, condemnable and a setback to the government’s communal stabilization and peace building efforts, but we will not be deterred.

”We urge our people that cherish peaceful coexistence, to continue to be resilient, focused and resolute in overcoming antics of forces of darkness and evil.

”Those that did this are determined to derail the contributions of the security agencies, having failed to spread their tentacles of hate, bigotry and penchant for divisiveness.

“I want to use this medium to appeal to all men and women of conscience to remain firm and optimistic, while the government in collaboration with security agencies, civil society, religious and traditional institutions will continue to work assiduously for peace and security of life and property.

“Finally, all those that have their hands in the destruction of this structure will not go free.

”The security agencies will fish out the perpetrators, and those found to be involved, or engaged in omissions that led to the destruction of public property will be brought to justice without fear or favour.”

$1bn Eurobond: We’ve plenty headroom to borrow further – Nwankwo

 The Director General, Debt Management Office, Abraham Nwankwo, says Nigeria needs to borrow to fix broken infrastructure. The 2016 and 2017 Budget’s include  significant deficit’s that the government must fund byincreased borrowing. As the Director General of the Debt Management Office this makes your role extremely important. Can you talk us through the current government’s debt strategy and the motivation behind it?

First of all, we have to start from the position we are currently in. Our debt to GDP ratio is low compared to our contemporaries in Africa, and other emerging markets. We have plenty headroom to borrow further in order to fund growth, and that is the strategy that this government has adopted. But the emphasis of government is that proceeds of loans must be used to fund crucial infrastructure projects. The value added has to be maximized.

Nigeria’s debt strategy is directly aligned to the spending plans of the Federal Government incorporated into the governments Medium Term Expenditure Framework.

At the heart of the strategy, is a clear recognition that Nigeria needs to deploy long term, relatively cheaper capital to finance recovery and growth.

So Nigeria can afford to borrow further?Absolutely, as I have said, we have a very low debt to GDP ratio; more importantly, the borrowed funds must be used to generate growth and employment and improve people’s living standards. Where we need to focus, is on increasing government revenue so that the cost of servicing our debt portfolio decreases as a proportion of annual spending. We do not have too much debt, we simply do not have enough revenue, and that is the focus of this government and has been for the last 18 months.

What is the return we are going to get for all this debt? Is it worth it?

As a country, we need to fix our broken infrastructure. It is fundamental to achieving long term growth and improved quality of life. Adequate infrastructure is essential for diversifying revenue sources and making the economy more competitive. We are aligning long term debt with those infrastructure needs and are committed to delivering an economy that works better for all of us.

What about the risks associated with borrowing in dollars given current forex liquidity issues?

We believe these risks are very manageable. With loans of up to 15 years, at a relatively favorable cost the competitiveness that will result from the improvement in infrastructure will enable the country to generate enough foreign exchange in the medium to long term to service these debts. In essence, strategic long term foreign borrowing at this time is imperative for overcoming the dependence on oil for almost all of the country’s foreign exchange earnings.

What are the proceeds of the Eurobond going to be spent on?

The government has identified a clear focus on increased capital spending, with circa 30% of the 2016 and 2017 budget’s allocated to capital spending. This is specifically designed to address significant structural issues and reset the economy. The Honorable Minister of Finance has spent considerable time ensuring that the system is ready to deploy these funds, with maximum efficiency and now is the time to invest. The current Eurobond will be used specifically to fund critical infrastructure projects in the 2016 budget, with the objective of supporting activities in the real sector of the economy – agriculture, agro-processing, light manufacturing and solid minerals development.

The Eurobond was priced at 7.875% and over a 15-year term, why is this?

The government is very happy with the outcome from the roadshow and the transaction. Not only did we get a good price for the debt, it was heavily oversubscribed. Investors remain confident in Nigeria’s outlook. We elected to pursue a 15-year term because we need long term financing to enable infrastructure investment, and traditionally we have approached the market for 10-year money. Over time, and as we engage with markets further, we will be in a position to borrow on better terms, and over longer periods of time.

Can we expect further borrowing in 2017? From where? Yes. The 2017 budget includes a deficit of N2.32 trillion of which N1.067 trillion will be sourced from external sources. The Eurobond we’ve just completed was to fund the deficit and capital spending in the 2016 budget; for the 2017 budget we will be determining the optimal approach over coming months.  In addition, N1.254 trillion will be raised from the domestic capital markets giving us a 46:54 debt ratio between international and domestic borrowing to finance the 2017 budget deficit.

How Boko Haram razed Borno village, burn one person alive

This was not the first time Mussa is witnessing Boko Haram attacks. The palace of the District Head and some structures in the community were allegedly burnt down by insurgents in recent past.

The latest incident came barely 24 hours after a group of insurgents ambushed troops in Ajiri village in Dikwa Local Government Area of the state, leaving seven soldiers dead and over 20 injured.

Askira Uba shares common border with Chibok and Damboa LGAs with some of the communities  located on the fringes of Sambisa Forest.

The incident, according to fleeing residents, occurred at about  9.30pm  on Friday.

Johnson Ali Gadzama, who claimed to be among those who fled into the bush upon hearing the sounds of gunshots, detonation of Improvized Explosive Devices, IEDs, and petrol bombs by the fighters, said the village is now deserted as residents fled. “Our community came under attack from Boko Haram at about  9:30pm  on Friday. The insurgents were reportedly  in a convoy of  vehicles on which were mounted  anti- aircraft guns and  carrying AK-47 rifles and other dangerous weapons,”Gadzama said.

“The insurgents looted  foodstuff, livestock before setting ablaze almost all structures, without anybody confronting them.  It is unfortunate that one person, who was unable to flee due to ill-health, was burnt beyond recognition by the attackers.”

Sources said  the invaders fled before the military could intervene.

Efforts to get Borno State Police Command Public Relations Officer, Mr. Victor Isuku, to comment on the attack proved abortive as his phone lines were not reachable.

Meanwhile, 22 hours after,  another set of insurgents, launched a fresh attack on the community, yesterday.

Residents, who fled the first attack but returned to the village in the evening, told Sunday Vanguard  that the insurgents returned to Askia Uba at about 6:30pm, shooting sporadically and razing some structures still standing in the village.

Buhari’s return still shrouded in secrecy

Presidential Aides On Standby There is no indication that President Muhammadu Buhari will return this week, even as speculation was rife last night that he had quietly returned. Presidential aides are however, on standby to receive the president, anytime he arrives from London.

Reports had indicated that only a last minute change of plans could stop President Buhari’s planned return, yesterday.Presidential Spokesman, Femi Adesina, could not be reached for reaction last night. Adeshina did not pick calls put through to his two official lines.

In the same vein, Senior Special Assistant on media and publicity ‎to the President, Garba Shehu, last night told The Guardian he had no information regarding the president’s return.

It would be recalled that President Buhari was expected to resume last Monday from his vacation. However, the President wrote to the National Assembly informing the parliament of his desire to extend his leave in order to complete and receive the results of a series of tests recommended by his doctors.

The development has continued to fuel speculations among Nigerians over his health status, with the Presidency failing to come up with a categorical statement on when he would return to the country.

Anti-government protests continue in Romania

Thousands of protesters braved the cold to march in Romania's main cities on Saturday marking the 12th consecutive day of protests against the government attempts to water down anti-corruption laws.

In the capital Bucharest, where a major rally is planned for Sunday, around 3,000 people gathered at the seat of government despite sub-zero temperatures.

"We are resisting, we aren't going away" yelled the protesters, who are calling for the left-leaning Social Democrat government, which only took power in December, to stand down.

Another 8,000 people took part in protests in the rest of the country, according to the national Agerpres news agency.

These included 3,000 in Timisoara, in the west and around 2,500 at protests in towns of Cluj and Sibiu.

Saturday's demonstrations took place despite the administration backing down over a planned controversial decree which would have made abuse of power a crime punishable by jail only if the sums involved exceeded 200,000 lei ($47,500).

The demonstrations, the largest since the ousting and summary execution of communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989, have also continued despite the resignation on Thursday of justice minister Florin Iordache.

Romania joined the European Union in 2007 and Brussels has long taken Bucharest to task over slow progress dealing with corruption and organised crime.

The country has intensified the fight against corruption in recent years with the creation of a prosecutor attached to the DNA anti-corruption agency, which has become one of the most popular government agencies following the conviction of several ministers and senior officials.

Graft watchdog Transparency International ranked Romania below all but three of its fellow EU states in a January report based on public perception of the prevalence of corruption. Worldwide, the country ranked 57th.

A counter-demonstration in support of the government also took place in Bucharest on Saturday, but mustered only a few hundred people in front of the presidential palace.

Stop executing prisoners – UK, EU tell Nigeria government

British High Commissioner, Paul T. Arkwright, has supported the position of European Union Heads of Mission against death penalty in Nigeria.

The EU has been campaigning for an end to execution of prisoners on death row.

The commissioner recalled that on 1st February, 2017, Lagos State signed a law authorizing death penalty for anyone convicted of kidnapping where the victim dies.

He also regretted that as recently as 23 December, 2016, Nigeria witnessed the execution of three prisoners by Edo State government.

Arkwright added that “These actions have undermined the progress Nigeria made in upholding the moratorium on the death penalty.

“I fully associate myself with the recent call by EU Heads of Mission for Nigeria to uphold the moratorium on the death penalty that has been in place since 2006.

“We remain open to working with the Nigerian government and civil society to push forward the debate towards abolition of the death penalty”.

The EU Heads of Mission had condemned the execution of the three prisoners by the Edo government.

The EU, in its reaction, underlined the universality of human rights, including the right to life and opposes the death penalty in all circumstances.

EU said: “It is a cruel punishment which fails to act as a deterrent of serious crime, and any miscarriage of justice – which is inevitable in any legal system – is irreversible.

“The EU notes that a de facto moratorium on the death penalty has been in place in Nigeria since 2006, though this moratorium was also broken in 2013 with executions in Edo state”.

The body urged Nigerian authorities to uphold the moratorium on the death penalty at a Federal and State level, and to take steps to accede to and ratify the second protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights leading ultimately to the abolition of the death penalty.

Again, UNICEF links FGM with high mortality rate

Embraces Teenagers Who Rejected FGMSeventeen-year-old Confident Mbam, and 18-year-old Faith Ekwede, from Achacha 1 Igbeagu in Izzi Local Council of Ebonyi State, recently ran into the warm embrace of UNICEF, after escaping from the village in order not to undergo the dreaded female genital mutilation (FGM)

The girls, The Guardian understands ran away from their village when they got wind of the impending mutilation.While on a sensitisation visit to the community, the United Nations agency explained that women circumcision, apart from the complications that come with it, also causes devastating, social, emotional, legal and economic repercussions for young girls and women.

Narrating their ordeal during an advocacy visit to Achacha by UNICEF and other organisations, Mbam said that she ran away from the house when she got the news that she would be circumcised that night.

She noted that she first took refuge at her pastor’s house, who later aided her to run to Cross River State.She said her father, who is the traditional ruler of the village, had told her to prepare herself for the ritual, explaining that it is the only way to be initiated into womanhood.

She continued, “So, I asked myself why will my parents want to mutilate me now that I am 17 and beside, our pastor (Anglican Priest) has told us that the practice is against our faith and we should not indulge in it.

So at that point she said: “I made up my mind to run away and my first destination was our pastors place, who hid me till the next day before I ran to one of my elder brothers living in Cross River State.

In her own case, Ekwede, a JSS 1 student of Comprehensive College, Achacha 1, said she also ran away when the news of her impending mutilation filtered out.

UNICEF Communication Officer Mrs. Ijeoma Onuoha, said: “It’s unacceptable that in this age, millions of women and girls continue to undergo the harmful practice of FGM/C, which research, science has proven to be a high risk factor for maternal mortality, VVF, and other socio-economic repercussions for the survivors.”

Jean-Marie Le Pen charged over apparent anti-Semitic pun

The founder of France’s far-right National Front party, Jean-Marie Le Pen, has been charged with inciting hatred for alleged anti-Semitic remarks in 2014, his lawyer said Saturday.

Frederic Joachim said the remarks by his client had been misinterpreted and his comments cut short.

The situation goes back to June 2014 when Le Pen in a video clip posted on the FN website railed against a number of critics including pop star Madonna and Yannick Noah, the French singer and former tennis champion.

When asked about another critic — French singer Patrick Bruel, who is Jewish — Le Pen said then that he would be part of “a batch we will get next time,” using the word “fournee” for “batch”, evoking the word “four”, which means “oven”.

SOS Racisme called it “the most anti-Semitic filth”, a pledge by the FN founder to put his critics in their place using a pun suggesting Nazi gas chambers.

The remarks were also denounced by the FN and his daughter, Marine Le Pen, who took over the party leadership and is now the FN presidential candidate in this year’s election.

“The word ‘fournee’ that I used has no anti-Semitic connotation, except for political enemies or imbeciles,” Jean-Marie Le Pen responded.

The now 88-year-old former paratrooper, who has had multiple convictions for inciting racial hatred and denying crimes against humanity, once described Nazi gas chambers as a “detail” of history.

The European Parliament, of which the elder Le Pen is a member, in late October lifted his parliamentary immunity in the case.

In 2015 Le Pen was booted out of the party he founded for his views on the Nazi gas chambers and for defending France’s collaborationist wartime Vichy regime.

Last November a French court upheld the FN’s decision to strip him of his membership but in a small victory for the elder Le Pen it ruled he should be allowed to remain as the party’s honorary president.

No plans to convert Arik Air to national carrier – Nigerian government

The Federal Government of Nigeria has denied plans to convert embattled airline, Arik Air, to a national carrier.

The Assets Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) had last week officially taken over the airline over issues ‎bordering on non-payment of leases, frequent flight delays, constant fracas between Arik Staff and irate passengers at both local and international airports, among others..

Following the development, there were reports in a section of the media that the FG had concluded plans to convert the Arik Air to National carrier.

Reacting however, the Deputy Director, Press and Public Affairs, Aviation Ministry, Mr. James Odaudu, explained that the report was false and unfounded.

He explained that the government only intervened in Arik through AMCON in order to save the carrier from collapse, adding that the Minister of State for Aviation, Hadi Sirika, had never given an inkling to suggest that Arik will be converted to a national carrier.

Odaudu said, “I have heard such claims too and they are just speculations. The federal government is not planning to convert Arik Air to a national carrier, I don’t have that information. Like the minister has always stated, the federal government will establish a private sector driven national carrier.

“As far as I know, I don’t think the government will want to start a national carrier with an airline that is full of encumbrances like Arik Air. Why did AMCON take over Arik Air? It is because of the problems faced by the airline.”

“We’ve heard even senior officials of the airline saying that the Federal Government wants to take over Arik because it wants to establish a national carrier, but to the best of my knowledge that’s not true. The truth is that as far as government is concerned, the more healthy airlines we have in the country, the better for us as a nation,” he told Punch.