In a move aimed at stabilizing fuel prices and the exchange rate, President Tinubu has proposed that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) sell crude oil to the Dangote Refinery in Naira. The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has accepted the proposal, which will provide a valuable lifeline to the refinery.
The deal involves selling 450,000 barrels of crude oil to Nigerian refineries, including the Dangote Refinery, in Naira, with Afreximbank and other settlement banks facilitating the trade. This move is expected to reduce the country’s reliance on imported refined fuel, saving billions of dollars in the process.
The Dangote Refinery, which requires 15 shipments of crude oil annually, will benefit from NNPC’s commitment to provide four of these cargoes. The constant exchange rate throughout the transaction will also help maintain stability in fuel prices and the exchange rate between the dollar and the Naira.
An angry mob vandalized the MTN office in Festac Town, Lagos State, in response to the network blocking its subscribers due to a mismatch in their National Identification Number (NIN) and SIM registration.
Recall, many telecom subscribers have been stopped from using their various lines having been deactivated as a result of failure to link NINs.
The sudden deactivation of people’s lines have been meted with harsh criticisms from various quarters as many were seen stranded in MTN offices across the county.
In Osogbo hundreds of customers of MTN residents in Osun State also embarked on protest around Dada estate, housing the service provider’s head office in the state.
Many of the protesters claimed to have arrived the office since 6am with a view to unblock their sim cards which the network providers have blocked to due to NIN inconsistency.
The protesters also blocked the Osogbo-Iwo road leading to Oke-Fia area of the state capital, thereby disrupting traffic and creating gridlock in the area.
The Nigerian Communications Commission has ordered telecommunications operators, telcos to immediately restore all phone lines blocked due to non-linkage of National Identification Numbers to SIM cards.
Reuben Muoka, the Director of Media and Public Affairs disclosed this on Monday.
Recall that many Nigerians were agog over what they perceived as restrictions by the NCC, which they felt were attempts to frustrate the August planned protest.
In a statement released by the NCC and sighted by Vanguard, Muoka stated that many telecom subscribers/consumers were unable to access their phone lines because of the inability of many telecom consumers to verify their NINs with their SIMs.
The statement read, “Over the weekend, many telecom subscribers/consumers were unable to access their phone lines due to their inability to verify their NINs with their SIMs. This resulted in their numbers being blocked by their telecom service providers in compliance with the laws and policies of the NIN-SIM linkage.
“Telecoms consumers and the public will recall the compulsory linkage of NIN with SIM, which began in December 2020, when the government directed telecommunication companies to bar unregistered SIM cards and SIMs that were not linked to NIN.
“Since December 2023, the Commission has reviewed the deadline a few times; April 15, 2024, was set as the deadline for the full network barring of subscribers with four or fewer SIMs that had unverified NIN details. This deadline was then reviewed to July 31, 2024, to give consumers more time to ensure their submitted NIN details are properly verified. Despite these extensions, many phone lines have yet to be linked with verified NINs.
“The objectives of this exercise by the Federal Government of Nigeria include enhancing national security and ensuring the national SIM ownership database is accurate. The NIN-SIM linkage policy aids in verifying and protecting users’ identities while also providing critical infrastructure that assures access to the benefits of a robust digital economy for the citizenry.
“The consumer is our priority. Therefore, considering the challenges the blockages have caused, the Commission has directed all operators to reactivate all lines that were disconnected over the weekend, given the short time available for consumers to undertake the verification of their NINs with their SIMs. Reactivated consumers are to note that this is for a limited period to allow them to properly link their NIN to their SIM.
“Members of the public who have yet to verify their SIMs are encouraged to do so as soon as possible to maintain access to their lines.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu today signed the new National Minimum Wage Amendment bill 2024 into law. It is reviewable every three years.
President Tinubu signed the bill midway into the Federal Executive Council meeting. Head of Service said the new law will undoubtedly reassure the workers that the President cares about their welfare.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio led National Assembly leaders to the signing ceremony. President Tinubu thanked the National Assembly for accelerating the passage of the law.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, has urged residents to refrain from engaging in violence towards protesters ahead of a planned nationwide demonstration scheduled for August 1-10. Fayoade made this plea during a town hall meeting with traditional rulers and community leaders in Eti-Osa, Ibeju-Lekki, Epe, and Lagos Island.
The commissioner emphasized that while the police and other security forces are opposed to any form of protest, residents should avoid confrontations with protesters and instead report any planned violent protests to the authorities. He stressed that peaceful protests are a legitimate right, but violence will not be tolerated.
Traditional rulers and community leaders, including Oba Abdulfatai Aromire of Ijora/Apapa, have also spoken out against the planned protest and commended the police for their efforts in addressing crime in the area. They have called for action against land grabbers and praised the commissioner for his success in dealing with kidnappers in Mushin.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has received over 20 million job applications within one hour of announcing new job openings on Friday.
A source at the NNPCL confirmed the development to ODUDUWA NEWS on Friday.
“Within the first hour of opening applications, our servers registered over 20 million attempts to submit job applications. It’s an unprecedented situation,” the source stated.
The influx of applications had caused technical glitches on the NNPCL’s website, resulting in slow load times and difficulties for applicants attempting to submit their information.
Addressing the situation, NNPCL had said in post on X (formerly Twitter): “Due to unprecedented traffic to the NNPC Ltd. career page from applicants applying for vacancies, the site is currently experiencing slow load times
“Our technicians are working diligently to rectify the problem as quickly as possible.”
The company reassured potential applicants that the application deadline remains August 20, 202.
In a follow-up statement, NNPCL noted its commitment to fairness in the hiring process: “Our team is working assiduously to accommodate the surge of applications.
“While we acknowledge the keen interest of Nigerians in having an exciting career experience with us, we reassure all Nigerians of a transparent and merit-based recruitment process.
“We therefore encourage capable Nigerians to take maximum advantage of this unique opportunity.”
The positions announced include graduate trainees and those on supervisory cadre.
Tourism isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a golden goose waiting to be plucked. Southwestern Nigeria boasts a treasure trove of cultural riches, breathtaking landscapes, and historical marvels, making it a prime destination for global explorers. Imagine the ripple effects of a thriving tourism industry: jobs blooming like wildflowers, local economies buzzing with activity, and the world falling in love with our unique heritage.
However, challenges remain. To transform this potential into reality, we must navigate a complex maze of obstacles. Let’s delve deeper into the potential and challenges of tourism in Southwest Nigeria. Potential for Tourism A Cultural Tapestry Southwest Nigeria is a vibrant kaleidoscope of culture, where ancient traditions dance with modern rhythms. The Yoruba people, the region’s heartbeat, have woven a rich tapestry of beliefs, arts, and festivals. Imagine losing yourself in the euphoria of Osun-Osogbo sacred, where deities and humans commune in a magical harmony. Beyond the spiritual realm, history buffs will find their paradise in the ruins of the Oyo Empire, a testament to a bygone era of power and influence. The ancient city of Ile-Ife, often called the birthplace of Yoruba civilization, is a treasure trove of art and artifacts. And let’s not forget the serene beauty of Agodi Gardens in Ibadan, a perfect escape from the bustling city life.
These are just a few brushstrokes on the canvas of Southwest Nigeria’s cultural landscape. There’s so much more to discover, from the bustling markets to the local cuisine, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Nature’s Playground and Urban Oasis Southwest Nigeria is a canvas painted with nature’s finest hues. Imagine pristine beaches like Tarkwa Bay and Elegushi, where the rhythmic lullaby of waves invites you to unwind. For adventure seekers, the Old Oyo National Park and the majestic Idanre Hills offer an escape into the wild, teeming with diverse flora and fauna. It’s a paradise for eco-enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. But Southwest Nigeria is more than just sun, sand, and safari. The region’s cities, like Lagos and Ibadan, are a dynamic blend of old-world charm and modern allure. Picture yourself shopping till you drop in world-class malls, savoring exquisite cuisines in upscale restaurants, and experiencing the thrill of the city that never sleeps. Government’s Guiding Hand Recognizing tourism’s potential as an economic catalyst, the Nigerian government has taken significant strides. Policymakers are rolling out the red carpet for both tourists and investors. Simplified visa procedures and improved infrastructure are just the beginning. Imagine arriving at a world-class airport, whisked away on smooth roads to your chosen destination. Development of tourism-specific infrastructure like hotels, resorts, and tourist information centers is being prioritized to enhance the visitor experience. It’s a vision becoming reality. Challenges to Overcome
Security Concerns Perceived and actual security issues can deter tourists. Ensuring safety through effective law enforcement and community engagement is vital for building trust among potential visitors.
Inadequate Infrastructure While there are ongoing improvements, many tourist sites still lack essential infrastructure like reliable transportation, accommodation, and healthcare facilities. Investment in sustainable infrastructure that preserves the natural and cultural integrity of tourist sites is essential.
Marketing and Awareness Effective marketing strategies are needed to showcase Southwestern Nigeria’s attractions to a global audience. Collaborations with international travel agencies, participation in travel expos, and leveraging social media are critical steps in this direction.
Training and Capacity Building Building a skilled workforce to cater to the needs of tourists is essential. Training programs for tour guides, hospitality staff, and local artisans can improve service quality and enhance the overall tourist experience. A Call to Action Southwest Nigeria is a diamond in the rough, waiting to be polished. It’s time to unleash its full potential. Let’s collaborate, innovate, and inspire. Together, we can create a tourism industry that not only generates economic growth but also uplifts communities and preserves our heritage. As the Yoruba proverb says, “Ògbóni bí ọgbọ́n tí a kọ́.” (Wisdom is acquired through learning.) Let’s learn from the best, innovate, and create a tourism legacy for generations to come.
Filling stations in Abuja and neighbouring states of Niger, Nasarawa, and Kogi, were shut on Friday as oil marketers expressed worry over the planned nationwide protest.
Retail outlets, including those operated by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited in Kubwa, Salbas Oil, Eterna, and Gegu Oil, among others located on the Kubwa-Zuba expressway, stopped dispensing fuel.
The same scene was also witnessed inside Abuja and parts of Niger and Nasarawa states.
Oil marketers told our correspondent that filling stations in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, were also shut.
The development led to fuel queues resurfacing in outlets dispensing fuel like AYM Shafa in the Dei-Dei end of the Kubwa-Zuba expressway, Abuja, and the NNPC in Zuba, Niger State.
Also, several filling stations in some parts of Lagos State were closed on Friday, creating fears of impending fuel scarcity.
Our correspondents, who went around, noticed that most filling stations were not dispensing, while the few that attended to customers sold at N800 per litre.
Although some oil marketers said the closure of some retail outlets on Friday was due to the unavailability of fuel, others attributed it to apprehension over the planned nationwide protest.
Long queues in Ogun and Oyo State
In Ogun and Oyo State, the situation at filling stations has reached a crisis point as motorists face long queues amid looming fuel scarcity.
Our correspondent visited the Magboro and Ibafo areas along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, where a chaotic scene unfolded as vehicles including motorcycles, cars, and commercial buses, lined up for petrol.
At Quest Filling Station in Magboro, the sight was alarming as the queue snaked for over a hundred meters, with motorists struggling for their turn to purchase fuel.
Of the three petrol pumps available, only one was operational, exacerbating the delay for those waiting.
President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians not to resort to violent protests, but rather wait until 2027 to vote him out if they are dissatisfied with his leadership. This was revealed by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, after a meeting with the President and other select monarchs at the Villa on Thursday.
According to Oba Ogunwusi, the President is open to dialogue and willing to engage with stakeholders to address the country’s challenges. The monarchs, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Abubakar Saad, and Ooni Ogunwusi, urged protesters to exercise their civic rights peacefully and not allow their actions to be hijacked by those with ulterior motives.
The traditional rulers also condemned acts of looting and vandalism, emphasizing their role as parents and leaders in engaging with the youth to promote peace and stability in the country. The meeting comes ahead of the planned nationwide protest against hardship, scheduled to take place from August 1-10.
The Oyo State Post Primary School Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM has fixed Monday, July 29- August 2, 2024, for computer-based test (CBT) for applicants in the ongoing recruitment exercise for teaching and non-teaching staff of secondary schools.
The Chairman, TESCOM, Pastor Akinade Alamu, stated this in Ibadan today, during a press conference.
He said a total of 62, 000 applicants scaled the application exercise to take part in the computer-based tests for the available positions.
Pastor Alamu said 12,000 applicants put in for non-teaching service, while 50,000 applicants applied for teaching service, under TESCOM.
The Chairman said the Commission is executing the recruitment exercise in conjunction with relevant agencies such as Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Establishment; Office of the Head of Service; and Ministry of Finance.
Pastor Alamu reiterated the Commission’s commitment to a credible exercise, adding that “no applicant should rely on hear-says.”
Pastor Akamu said specific date and time for individual applicants is already can be accessed by applicants through their portals.
He described Governor Seyi Makinde as a lover of Education, who saw the vacuum in secondary schools as one that must be filled, despite its recruitment exercise about four years ago.
He added that the venue for the exam is University of Ibadan Distance Learning Centre, Computer Based Testing Centre, Ajibode, Ibadan.
Alamu instructed all applicants to print copies of their CBT examination schedule and their application print-out, bearing their passports, from the job portal.
According to him, “The Commission has approved that the University of Ibadan Distance Learning Centre, Computer Based testing centre, should conduct the computer-based tests for the applicants because of its pedigree in such exercise.”
The Chairmam said the two print-outs will admit applicants into the CBT examination hall.
He maintained that applicants must adhere strictly to the time and date, sent to them, as loitering around the centre will not be condoned.
The Chairman added that successful candidates from the computer-based tests will be required to appear for oral interview.
Meanwhile, Pastor Alamu said the Commission has made arrangements for applicants, by providing necessities such as tents, chairs, ambulance service and security.
