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Category: News

  • We’ll Announce Ogunbanjo’s Successor Soon – Beta Glass

    We’ll Announce Ogunbanjo’s Successor Soon – Beta Glass

    Beta Glass, a subsidiary of Frigoglass Group, is set to disclose its board’s succession plan in the wake of the passing of Abimbola Ogunbanjo, its chairman.

    Ogunbanjo, former group chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group), tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash in the United States last Friday.

    The crash also claimed the lives of Herbert Wigwe, former group chief executive officer (GCEO) of Access Holdings Plc, along with his wife and son.

    In a corporate filing on Monday, Beta Glass affirmed that its board of directors would offer continued support during this transition period.

    “In due time Beta Glass and the Frigoglass Group will communicate the board’s succession plan. In the interim, the Company will continue to receive support from its Board of Directors,” the company stated.

    Gagik Apkarian, chairman of Frigoglass Group board and managing director of Tetrad Capital Partners, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting Ogunbanjo’s dedication during her eight-year tenure as Beta Glass chairman.

    “We extend our deepest condolences to Abi’s family, friends, and loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with them,” Apkarian added.

    Darren Bennett-Voci, Beta Glass’ CEO, emphasized Ogunbanjo’s lasting impact on the company, pledging to uphold his legacy by maintaining the values and vision he instilled.

    In addition to his role at Beta Glass, Ogunbanjo was actively involved in various professional organizations, including the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping and the Institute of Directors (IoD).

    Meanwhile, Access Holdings announced Bolaji Agbede as the successor to Wigwe as its GCEO on February 12, 2024.

  • Alleged N10b fraud: How witness, threatened by EFCC appeared in court

    Alleged N10b fraud: How witness, threatened by EFCC appeared in court

    There was a mild drama at the Federal High Court, Abuja, Tuesday, as Rabiu Musa, a witness, allegedly threatened by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) suddenly appeared in court.

    The Abuja based Bureau De Change operator, is that prosecution star witness in an alleged N10billion fraud suit against Ali Bello and Daudu Suleiman.

    At the resumed trial, Tuesday, Counsel to EFCC, Hannatu Kofamaisa informed Justice James Omotoso that the witness, was alleged to have been threatened, following his appearance at the last trial and got scared.

    Hannatu explained that the witness would not be in court to continue his evidence, based on his experience of threats at the last adjourned date, adding that she had called the witness five times but that he was no longer picking her calls.

    She therefore seeks for an adjournment of the trial.

    Responding, Counsel to Ali Bello, Abdullahi Aliu, SAN, said that he would not react to the EFCC’s allegations because they were not targeted at his client and did not oppose the request for an adjournment.

    However, drama unfolded when the witness alleged to have been threatened away from court and would not attend the trial, suddenly walked into the court room without any signs of apprehension.

    The counsel to Ali Bello got up and drew the attention of Justice Omotoso to the quiet arrival of the witness into the court room.

    It took the intervention of Justice Omotoso to doused tension lawyers to Ali Bello and Daudu Suleman from joining issues with EFCC on the allegations.

    In his testimony, the witness identitied one of his record books of transactions seized from him by EFCC during a raid of his office at Wuse, in Abuja and also admitted knowing Ali Bello.

    Under cross examination by Nureni Jimoh SAN who stood for Daudu Suleman, the Bureau De Change operator who claimed to be an illiterate said most of the transactions were recorded for him by one Mubarak who he said was literate and now a student at a University.

    The witness also said that parts of the transactions were recorded in his absence but that he was always briefed upon his arrival at the office.

    Meanwhile, the matter has been adjourned till February 22 and 23 for continuation of trial.

  • Senate President Administers Oath to Three New Senators

    Senate President Administers Oath to Three New Senators

    Three new senators, elected during the recent national by-election, were on Tuesday, sworn in by the Senate President Godswill Akpabio as members of the 10th Senate.

    The ceremony, conducted within the confines of the Senate chamber, saw Mustapha Musa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) representing Yobe East, Professor Anthony Ani of the APC representing Ebonyi South, and Prince Pam Mwadkon of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) representing Plateau North taking their oaths of office and allegiance.

    With the guidance of Senate Clerk Mr. Chinedu Akubueze, the new senators solemnly pledged their commitment to their legislative duties before being escorted to their designated seats by the Sergeant-At-Arms.

    The inclusion of these three senators brings about a shift in the Senate’s political landscape, as the distribution of lawmakers across different parties now stands at: APC – 59, PDP – 37, LP – 7, NNPP – 2, SDP – 2, APGA – 1, and ADP – 1. This alteration promises increased diversity and representation within the Upper Chamber, shaping the legislative agenda with varied viewpoints and interests.

  • FIRS Speaks On Going After  Skit Makers And Influencers Over Tax Payment

    FIRS Speaks On Going After  Skit Makers And Influencers Over Tax Payment

    The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has said it has no plans to tax skitmakers, influencers and other digital content creators.

    The Special Adviser on Media to the chairman of the FIRS, Dare Adekambi, was quoted as saying that social media content creators and influencers constituted a major block of tax evaders.

    He said content creators and influencers constitute a significant block of tax evaders, adding that a law in Nigeria requires everybody who earns income to pay tax.

    Adekambi stressed that the FIRS would meet with content creators and influencers and make them see why they should voluntarily pay tax.

    But an official of the agency who spoke to some journalists anonymously on Monday, said skit makers are individuals who do not fall within the purview of the FIRS.

    The FIRS official stated that the agency does not tax Personal Income Tax but only collects Company Income Tax.

    He said: “FIRS does not tax Personal Income Tax; State governments do.

    “FIRS collects Company Income Tax. Only those who are corporate names and earn profit of N25 million and more are required to pay tax.”

  • HEDA seeks to jail American Tower’s Nigeria CEO

    HEDA seeks to jail American Tower’s Nigeria CEO

    The Federal High Court sitting in Lagos will February 14, commence hearing on contempt proceedings instituted by the Incorporated Trusted of HEDA Resource Center
    against the Managing Director of ATC Nigeria, Errol Ambler-Smith.

    Other respondents in the matter are the Federal Ministry of Environment and MTN Nigeria Communications Plc (MTN Nigeria).

    HEDA, on February 5th, 2024, filed a notice of consequences of disobedience of court orders against ATC Nigeria before the court.

    It would be recalled that in Suit No FHC/L/CS/2359/2023 between HEDA v. Federal Ministry of Environment and 4 others, the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos on 21st November 2023 issued an ex parte order of injunction against ATC Nigeria, MTN Nigeria and other defendants to restrain themselves from taking any step towards establishing new masts in close proximity to existing ones.

    The order effectively put on hold the implementation of the relocation of 2,500 towers project from IHS to ATC announced by MTN on or around 10th November 2023. The order of injunction was reaffirmed by the court on 7th December 2023.

    While the document sighted did not indicate the basis of the contempt proceedings, it is certain that steps are being taken towards convicting the Managing Director of ATC Nigeria named in the said document. Efforts to reach the Chairman of HEDA, Olanrewaju Suraju, and the Managing Director of ATC Nigeria, Errol Ambler-Smith at the time of publication did not yield positive fruits.

    The matter is coming up on the 14th of February, 2024.

  • Any Government That Refuses To Implement N35,000 Wage Increment Does Not Deserve Peace – Oshiomhole

    Any Government That Refuses To Implement N35,000 Wage Increment Does Not Deserve Peace – Oshiomhole

    Senator Adams Oshiomhole is urging all levels of government to enforce the Federal Government’s N35,000 grant, emphasizing that no government at the state or local level should experience peace if they fail to implement the grant.

    President Bola Tinubu’s administration had approved the N35,000 provisional wage to alleviate the impact of subsidy removal, applicable to all treasury-paid federal government workers for six months. 

    Expressing his concern on Channels Television, Oshiomhole questioned why no Nigerian state government has implemented the wage increase despite federal approval, asserting that it should be applied universally across federal, state, and local levels, as well as in the private sector.

    According to him, “The Federal Government approved N35,000 increase on top of current wage levels. But I’m yet to understand why any Nigerian state government or governor is not implementing that agreement.

    “I don’t agree that the money was for only federal employees. Federal employees don’t have different markets from state employees and the struggle that was mobilised, workers in Nigeria were mobilised both public and private sectors in what we called a general strike before that money was awarded.

    “By extension, therefore, all state governments, local governments, federal government and private sector employers should implement it. I don’t think NLC business is to lament it.

    “They should fight for the implementation of their rights. Any government that refuses to implement the N35,000 is not entitled to peace. That’s my view.”

  • Abuja Nurses Storm NMCN Office, Protest New Verification Rules

    Abuja Nurses Storm NMCN Office, Protest New Verification Rules

    Nurses affiliated with the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) have rallied in Abuja to express their discontent with the recently enforced certification verification guidelines by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN). 

    The protesting nurses, who gathered at the NMCN headquarters, accused the council of impeding their professional growth with what they perceive as overly strict and unnecessary regulations.

    Holding signs reading “No to verification rules!” and “Address nurses’ welfare,” they protested against guidelines introduced on February 7th, requiring a minimum of two years of post-qualification experience, a letter of good standing from both the employer and training institution, and a processing time of at least six months for nurses seeking employment abroad. 

    The circular, signed by Dr. Faruk Abubakar, the Registrar of the council, outlined the non-refundable fee for verification, emphasizing that eligible applicants must possess a minimum of two years post-qualification experience, and applications with provisional licenses will be rejected. 

    The guidelines are set to be implemented from March 1, 2024.

  • World Marathon Record Holder, Coach Die In Car Crash

    World Marathon Record Holder, Coach Die In Car Crash

    24-year-old world marathon record holder and London Marathon winner Kelvin Kiptum has died in a road accident in Kenya.

    The athlete’s coach, Gervais Hakizimana, was also killed in the accident.

    Kenyan President William Ruto tweeted on Monday, “Kelvin Kiptum was a star. Arguably one of the world’s finest sportsmen who broke barriers to secure a marathon record.

    “He was only 24 yet, as a hero, triumphed in Valencia, Chicago, London and in other top competitions. His mental strength and discipline were unmatched. Kiptum was our future.

    “An extraordinary sportsman has left an extraordinary mark in the globe. Our thoughts are with the family and the sporting fraternity. Rest In Peace.”

    Kenyan member of parliament Gideon Kimaiyo also confirmed the pair’s death in a statement on X.

    Mr Kimaiyo said: “It is with heavy hearts that we learn of the passing of Kelvin Kiptum, the world marathon record holder, and his coach in a tragic accident along the Eldoret-Kaptagat road.

    “Kelvin Kiptum was at the prime of his career, a legend in his own right. It’s a tough one to take.

    “Our thoughts are with their families during this incredibly difficult time. The people of Keiyo South are saddened by this loss. May their souls rest in eternal peace.”

    Also, Dr. Alfred N. Mutua, E.G.H., Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, tweeted on Monday morning, “I was profoundly shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the devastating loss of current marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, through a tragic road accident. Their untimely departure has left an irreplaceable void not only in the hearts of their loved ones but also within the entire Marathon fraternity. 

    “As we mourn this immense loss, let us hold onto the memories of Kelvin’s remarkable achievements and the positive impact he had on so many lives. Gervais Hakizimana’s guidance and mentorship undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping Kelvin’s remarkable career.

    “My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, teammates, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. May you find strength and comfort in each other during this incredibly challenging time.

    “May Kelvin and Gervais find eternal peace, and may their legacies continue to inspire future generations of athletes.”

    Kiptum broke the course record for the London Marathon last year.

    He won the men’s event in the second-fastest marathon in history, with a time of two hours, one minute and 25 seconds.

    In 2023, he broke the men’s world record at the Chicago Marathon with a time of two hours and 35 seconds.

    His record was ratified by the international track federation World Athletics last week.

  • Why New Minimum Wage May Be N1 Million – NLC President Ajaero

    Why New Minimum Wage May Be N1 Million – NLC President Ajaero

    The National Labour Congress (NLC) has indicated that its minimum wage demands might increase to N1 million per month if economic challenges persist. 

    NLC President Joe Ajaero mentioned during an interview on Arise TV that worsening inflation and currency depreciation are significant factors contributing to this potential escalation.

    He emphasized that the demand for a higher wage is closely tied to economic conditions, citing the impact of rising exchange rates and the cost of living, including the soaring prices of essential items like rice. 

    He said: “This N1 million may be relevant if the value of the Naira continues to depreciate; if the inflation continues to depreciate. The demand of Labour is equally dependent on what is happening in the society.

    “You will remember that by the time we were contemplating N200,000, the exchange rate was about N900. As we talk today, the exchange rate is about N1,400 or even more.

    “Those are the issues that determine the demand and it is equally affecting the cost of living and we have always said it that our demand will be based on the cost of living index.

    Ajaero’s remarks come amid looming strike threats as organized labour are engaging in discussions with the federal government regarding previous agreements and wage issues.

  • Police Kill ‘Wanted Notorious Kidnappers,’ Destroy Camps in Abuja

    Police Kill ‘Wanted Notorious Kidnappers,’ Destroy Camps in Abuja

    The fight against insecurity in the nation’s seat of power has again yielded results this time, as the nation’s police authorities say some wanted kidnappers have been neutralized and their camps destroyed in Abuja. 

    These recent feats, according to Force Spokesman Muyiwa Adejobi, took place on Friday.

    “In the early hours of February 9, 2024, around 2.40 am, operatives of the Nigeria Police Force Intelligence Bureau – Intelligence Response Team (FIB-IRT), acting on intelligence, successfully attacked, neutralized and eliminated many notorious kidnappers including the kidnapping kingpin identified as Musa Wada (Sabo) Magaji, in an operation conducted around Mpape, Abuja,” a Saturday evening statement from him read.

    “The team also destroyed the camps of the dreaded kidnappers who have been thorns in the flesh of Abuja residents in recent times.”

    Police operatives engaged the criminals in a 30-minute gun battle, the statement added, with several of the kidnappers “fatally injured, while one of the police operatives sustained bullet wounds”.

    He said the development comes just on the heels of the “neutralization of Abubakar Wada, an associate of Musa Wada, on February 8, 2024, who served as a lead to their hideout.

    “Musa Wada, aka Sabo, was the mastermind behind numerous kidnappings for ransom activities plaguing areas including Mpape and Bwari in the FCT; Kagarko in Kaduna; Masaka, and Nukun Village in Nasarawa State. His modus operandi involved identifying wealthy targets and mobilizing armed gangs to carry out abductions for ransom”.

    While noting that the recent operation was carried out by the FIB-IRT “through a surprise assault,” items recovered from the hideout include mobile phones, multiple SIM cards, charms, and hard drugs”.

    “Efforts are on to recover additional arms and ammunition and other equipment they use for their nefarious operations,” the police added, reiterating its commitment to bringing perpetrators of “heinous crimes to justice, against all odds”.