Forbes names Dangote Africa’s most powerful man

The President, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has been named the most powerful man in Africa and 64th in the world by the Forbes magazine. Dangote, who Forbes says is by far Africa’s richest man with a net worth of $16.1bn as of March 2013, was ranked ahead of the likes of Fifa President, Sepp Blatter (69); Speaker, United States House of Representatives, John Boehner (66); and Founder, Mo Ibrahim Foundation, Mohammed Ibrahim (71). The 56-year-old, Dangote, whose company is considered one of the most diversified on the list, is currently ranked 43 on the Forbes list of the world’s billionaires with his net worth over time said to be on the rise. In August, the industrialist had announced plans by the Dangote Group to build a $9bn refinery and petrochemical complex in Nigeria, a move which is expected to help the group further diversify its current business model and increase his net worth. Away from his business interests, mention was also made of his philanthropic efforts in his profile on the Forbes website. It reads in part, “Inspired by fellow billionaires, Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, Dangote is making a name for himself on the philanthropic circuit and has given away millions to education, health and social causes in Africa.” Apart from Dangote, Ibrahim is the only other African on the list, which contains 72 people. Russia’s President, Vladimir Putin, topped the list, displacing United States President, Barrack Obama, who dropped to the second spot for the first time in three years. Chinese President, Xi Jinping, occupies the third spot, while the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, debuts on the list at number four. Pope Francis, who was elected in March this year, leads 12 other new entrants. Other notable new names on the list are Samsung Chairman, Lee Kun-Hee (41); Volkswagen’s Martin Winterkorn (49); South Korean President, Park Geun-hye (52); and Janet Yellen (72), who has been nominated by President Obama as the next leader of the US Federal Reserves. The Executive Editor of the New York Times, Jill Abramson (68), makes a return appearance after dropping off the list in years past. Facebook Founder, Mark Zuckerberg, aged 29, and North Korean leader, Kim Jung-un, aged 30, are the youngest people on the list. Zuckerberg occupies the 24th place, while Kim is ranked 46th. Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah, who occupies the eight spot, is the oldest person on the list. He is 89 years old. The world’s richest man, Carlos Slim, is, however, not the most powerful man. The América Móvil honorary chairman occupies the 12th position. According to Forbes, the Most Powerful People in the World list is an annual snapshot of the heads of state, financiers, philanthropists and entrepreneurs, who truly rule the world. “It represents the collective wisdom of top Forbes editors, who consider hundreds of nominees before ranking the planet’s top 72 power-brokers – one for every 100 million people on earth – based on their scope of influence and their financial resources relative to their peers,” the magazine explained. This year’s list features 17 heads of state, who run nations with a combined Gross Domestic Product of some $48tn.

Arsenal confidence intact – Wenger

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger said a Capital One Cup fourth-round defeat by Chelsea on Tuesday will not hamper his side’s momentum ahead of a tough fixture list in November, BBC Sport reports. Cesar Azpilicueta and Juan Mata goals marked a second successive home defeat. The Gunners lead the Premier League and face Liverpool and Manchester United in their next two domestic fixtures. Asked if his side’s confidence had been dented, Wenger said, “No. It’s a different competition.” Since losing to Aston Villa in their first game of the season, Arsenal recorded 11 wins in 12 matches before losing to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League a week ago. They recovered by beating Crystal Palace on Saturday but the defeat to Chelsea was the first time they have lost two consecutive games at the Emirates since February. Having only faced one team from last season’s top seven – Tottenham – they now host Liverpool before trips to Dortmund and Old Trafford. They then host fifth-placed Southampton, who have beaten Liverpool and drawn with Manchester United recently. Wenger, who made eight changes to the side that beat Palace 2-0 at Selhurst Park, said Chelsea punished a mistake for Azpilicueta’s opener. Chelsea broke forward after an Arsenal corner with Carl Jenkinson’s header failing to reach Lukasz Fabianski. But he said it was too early to say that Arsenal could not perform against the stronger teams. “Let’s not reach a conclusion too quickly,” he said. “If you take the points we have made since 1 January, it’s more than everybody else. Over a longer distance, you’ll see more of the quality of the team than in the last two games. “It is true that it is difficult to swallow what happened to us in the last week, but the mistakes are so big that they can be corrected. “After the first game against Aston Villa, we were relegated. Today we are in a strong position in the league. “It is down to how we get rid ourselves of these mistakes without losing the belief in our qualities. That is what is at stake.”

Mikel hails Mourinho impact at Chelsea

Chelsea midfielder Mikel Obi has praised coach Jose Mourinho for the positive impact he has made since returning to the club at the start of the season. The Blues are currently in second place on the Premier League standings and first in their group in the Champions League and Mikel believes the Portuguese has helped to restore their winning mentality. “This game is all about winning and the manager that brought this transformation of winning to this club is back now,” the Super Eagles star told Chelsea TV. “He still has the same idea of how he wants us to approach every game with a win, win mentality. “I came to this club at 18 and he made me to think win, win, win. Whenever you see him, you see motivation. “He walks around the place full of energy, full of confidence. And really, he is not doing it for himself but for you to see how he goes about his business and he wants you to emulate that into yourself and start behaving in a similar way. “This is because confidence can lead you to so many places that you never thought you could go and it is just brilliant to work with him again. “And now that he is back, we hope that we can continue winning the trophies that we won since he left.” The Blues will look to continue with their winning form when they visit Newcastle United in a league clash on Saturday. Mikel played all 90 minutes in Tuesday’s 2-0 defeat of Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in the League Cup. The former Lyn Oslo player made 90 per cent pass accuracy from 70 touches on the ball. He also won just 25 per cent of all his aerial duels while completing one dribble and one successful tackle. He was shown a yellow card in the 29th minute for a blatant foul on Jack Wilshere.

KAYODE FAYEMI SPEAKS ABOUT ISSUES IN EKITI

The Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, spoke to journalists about threats to the security of the state, the 2014 governorship election in the state and sundry other issues. JOHN ALECHENU was there. Excerpts: We are less than a year to the 2014 election. Will governance not suffer as is often the case at such times? Government is not just about the governor and I think that is something we have to get away from. We still have an authoritarian mindset in Nigeria because of our military past. I’m one governor who is on the road a lot and governance does not suffer when I’m not in Ado – Ekiti. So, the fact that I’m on the road should not mean government is suffering. I’m spending the entire November, for example, as I normally do every year, touring the communities because we do that in preparation for the budget. So I’m spending 30 days in November going round about 150 communities in Ekiti. So, does that mean government will suffer because I’m not sitting in this office (Governor’s office)? That is governance for me. That is what government is! When I’m with the people I’m governing. Then you are also campaigning? I’m not campaigning. I’m preparing for 2014 budget. But you know this is not the first time I’m doing this. I do it every November. So, you cannot associate it with campaign. I’m not campaigning. Apart from the endorsements you have been receiving, tell us, will you contest? Yes, I will. You have said that Ekiti State ranks 35th on the revenue allocation ladder, but there are allegations about the bond obtained by your administration. What have you done with the money realised from this? I don’t think the issue is about my critics not seeing what we have done the way you are seeing it. As a matter of fact, I think they are seeing it. And it has become a political hot potato for them. Their challenge is: What are we going to use to campaign against this man? Since there is nothing to use to campaign against him, and since we are politicians, there must be something. Yes, we may not have anything to take to EFCC or ICPC about him, but we must find something against him. And the best they could find is the bond. Yes, we went to the bond market. It was public information. We took N20bn bond in December 2011 – meaning about 18 months ago and the projects that we said we were going to use the bond for are specific. They were identified. If you look at the bond book, they are listed there. The 10 projects were listed. You can just google Nigerian Stock Exchange website or the Security and Exchange Commission; you can access the information there. We took N20bn, we were going to build roads, we were going to revive our moribund brick factory in Ire; we were going to re-develop Ikogosi; we are going to build a government house; you can see it on the top as you drive around Ekiti and you will see what we are doing there. There is not a single project that we took bond for that is not being implemented. So the issue is not that we took bond, the issue is whether we have worked with the bond. Lagos State that makes N20bn from internally generated revenue every month has bond of about N250bn. These are facts that you can check. Akwa – Ibom, Rivers have N300bn bond. And why do you want to go for bond? Simple- it is better structured. It has a lower interest rate of about 14.5 per cent as against straight loan where you pay as much as 22.5 per cent interest. So, bond works out better for us over a long period. Otherwise how are we going to carry out any development in this part? Yes, we have increased the IGR in Ekiti from about N109m to N600m but that is just a scratch. Or is it the N3bn from Abuja that is going to give us all these things that you have said we have done? So, when the election comes, we would have that debate about bond and anybody who wants to come with a superior argument would also table it. And what is our track record? The last government that ever did anything in this state that you can refer to as concrete legacy was the Adebayo government. Adebayo’s government took a N4bn bond in 2002; Ekiti House in Abuja that was built in 2002 for N700m; we have just done revaluation, and the Ekiti House is now worth N4.7bn. So these are trade-offs. It’s even wiser to take these bonds to develop, because Ekiti people are not going to say to me that because money does not come from Abuja, I would not work. It is an excuse for inaction. They are not interested in that. Didn’t I know that the money was limited before I became governor? When I was running, hadn’t I thought through how I was going to get money? We took N20bn in December 2011 and as of today, as I speak to you, we have paid N9bn out of that because it is deducted automatically from our FAC account. The second issue for me, which I think ought to interest our colleagues, is: are there obligations that this state had that are not being met because we have taken bond? Do we owe salaries? Things that were not done when we didn’t take bond under Fayose and Oni administrations, we are doing now- social security, housing loan, car loan – these were things that were not there before and we have increased salaries. When I became the governor, the salary in this state was N7, 500 minimum wage, we raised it to N13,500 and now N19,300 and we have not had a corresponding increase in the FAC allocation to Ekiti. These are calculations that can be easily done but for mischief-makers they would just sell all sorts of silly things about us. Yes, we know he is working but he borrowed money. Are you not worried that Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele who is a member of your party is coming to challenge you in the coming election? As far as I am aware, APC does not even have members yet in Ekiti State. APC membership registration has not taken place. It is taking place in November. So, we would know if Opeyemi Bamidele is a member of APC in November. So I don’t want you to jump to that conclusion. How close are you to Opeyemi Bamidele and is there any betrayal along the line, because he appears to be aggrieved? To the best of my knowledge, he is my brother and he is representing this organisation, but what you should know is that in politics you don’t even need permission to have ambition. The state used to be relatively peaceful, but in recent times, we are beginning to experience political violence? You know we politicians are attention seekers by the nature of the business we are in and that is part of the problems. If you are a politician and you want to impress your political leaders or masters in Abuja, you want to give them the impression that you are the one in charge and you go to Abuja and the people say to you: but there is nothing happening, the place is peaceful there is no problem in Ekiti, how do you think you are going to challenge this man if the place is this quiet? Then, you will begin to look for opportunities to create crisis or to foment trouble and I think that is what we have noticed in the last couple of months here. But I am determined to ensure that we have a peaceful state even if it means bending over backwards to bring in all of the people to agree to a code of conduct – a code of ethics that binds us. Maybe we would call all our elders in Ekiti so that it will not be seen to be partisan or that the governor is dictating his position to them. But I would like to think that the majority of our politicians are interested in peace. You know this was a state of one week one trouble. How else do you want to explain a state that had six governors in seven years? How do you explain that? We have had too many problems here. That already tells you the instability we had. When we had the pension law for ex-governors, it was only two people that qualified; Niyi Adebayo and Paul Alabi, because they were the only people- governor and deputy governor – that completed their tenure of office. Source: Punch

At last, MFM G.O. Olukoya Secret Data Exposed

The journey of a thousand miles started a day, this made our reporters to deep search into the affair of a Notable man of God Dr kolawole Olukoya, who was born into the family of Mr and Mrs olukoya his father was a retired police officer and mother was a pretty trader, Dr olukoya started his primary education at st john CAC primary school Akure ondo state and later move to lagos state to complete his primary school at St jude primary school Ebute metta, he excelled in both institutions He processed to Methodist Boys high school where he finished with grade one (distinction) and was the best student of his set in deed this was the beginning of Dr olukoya academic exploit, in his quest for higher education, he processed to the prestigious university of Lagos ( Unilag )where he studies Microbiology and pass out with first honourdegree, the first from his department since the establishment of the course in the university in 1962. Ater a few years of teaching and subsequent employment as a research assistant at the Nigeria institute of medical research Yaba Lagos. Dr olukoya travelled to the United Kingdom under the Commonwealth Scholarship to Study Molecular Genetic at the University of Reading, where he obtained a doctorate degree in a record time in spite of the difficulty of the subject and probably the first Nigerian to obtain PhD in this discipline. Although under the pressure to remain and work in Britain against the background of his chosen field Dr olukoya who had his eye fixed on God plan for his returned back to Nigeria and re joined the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research NIMR Yaba Lagos, he equally served as an external lecturer to many universities including university of lagos and Benin dr olukoya was the first Scientist to establish an indigenous laboratory of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology in Nigeria. Dr olukoya has supervised over twenty PhD student Most of whom where doing well in their chosen career another important contribution olkoya made to Biotechnology and health delivery is the invention of a new type of Ogi named Dogik which is a weaning food that control diarrhea and improved nutritional qualities as a researcher he has over eighty scientific publication to his credit. If their unique about olukoya, it is his love and passion fo God from his youthful days, notwithstanding his academic exploits, he devoted his time to God, the fact that olukoya would become a mighty tool in the hands of God to serve as a vehicle of deliverance for his generation began to manifest in his life however as he continue to evangelism and composed songs he left for England to further his education. After the completion of his PhD, Dr olukoya continue to worship the almighty God he became deeply involved in seminars and in the preaching of the word, until God gave him the blueprint and the vision of Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries 1977, the church took off with about 24 people in his sitting in Yaba to CAC makoko off adebisi street alagomeji yaba lagos in 1989 as a result of the mighty thing God was doing the church moved to a hall at 60 old yaba road Ebute Metta Lagos when the space became inadequate as membership rapidly increased MFM church moved to his present headquarter at 13 olasimbo street onike beside university of Lagos 2nd gate in 1994 since its establishment by God through Dr olukoya MFM has experienced tremendous expansion from its international headquarter in Lagos, the church oversees many branches located within and outside Nigeria. A huge percentage of these branches are located in united state, United Kingdom and Ireland despite its less than three decade of existence, MFM which is noted for her unique and powerful prayers has enveloped the nation of the world like a colossal MFM headquarters is the largest single congregation in Africa with an attendance of over 120,000 worshipers in a single meeting, its is a Ministries devoted to the revival of apostolic signs, holy ghost, works, miracle and unlimited power of God to deliver to the uttermost. Absolute holiness within and without as a spiritual insecticide and pre requisite for heaven anointed by God Dr olukoya is a prophet, an evangelist, a teacher and preacher of the words of God apart from the over eighty sciencific publication Dr olukoya has written about 230 spiritual books most of which are best seller among the outstanding one are Prayer Rain, which is been used by Christians over the globe. Like his mentor, Apostle Joseph Babalola, DKO as his follower fondly called him has changed the face of Pentecostalism in Nigeria and world, his deliverance Ministries has infested all churches in and around his prayer patter is now the vogue in all churches even by those who condemned the pattern earlier on.

LATEST UPDATE ON ASUU STRIKE

PRESIDENTS JONATHAN TO MEET ASUU ON MONDAY NOV 4 Universities may re-open next week, authoritatively reveal that in a last ditch effort to resolve the ASUU strike, President Goodluck Jonathan will on Monday, November 4, meet with the leadership of ASUU at the Presidential Villa. This was part of the resolutions of the meeting between the ASUU leadership, Vice President Namadi Sambo and the Supervising Minister of Education on Tuesday as was first reported by this medium. An official of the Vice President’s office who pleaded anonymity told Scan News that all hands are now on deck to ensure that the universities resume next week. The official stated that the Vice President and the Supervising Minister of Education have made head-way in resolving the strike, but the final involvement of the President is to show ASUU that there is the commitment of the Federal Government at the highest level. It was learnt that the President has been fully briefed on steps taken by Vice President Namadi Sambo and the Supervising Minister of Education to get to this point. It was learnt that the President will at next Monday’s meeting present to the ASUU leadership the administration’s last concession for them to call off the prolonged strike. A source at the Presidential Villa noted that if ASUU fails to call off, the Federal Government will then resort to plan B, which will be to compulsorily open the universities, using the instrumentality of the governing councils and the school managements. Already, most of the governing councils of the universities have started meeting to work out modalities for the compulsory re-opening of the universities should ASUU fail to honour the personal request of President Jonathan. Scan News gathered that the Supervising Minister of Education, Barr. Nyesom Wike and the Vice Chancellors of Public Universities also discussed the re-opening of the schools last Monday. Most of the Vice Chancellors suggested the compulsory re- opening of the schools, should the last ditch efforts fail. It was gathered that security report available to the Presidency may have necessitated this line of action to salvage the universities system from the direction it is facing at present.

Jonathan Finally Moves Against Stella Oduah

It seems the prayers he made in Israel have finally opened the eyes of President Goodluck Jonathan to the rot in his government and the sins of people like Stella Oduah, the embattled Minister of Aviation. Jonathan finally took his first obvious action against Stella on Monday with the last-minute decision to stop her from signing the much-publicised Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with Israel. Following the refusal of many Nigerians to say “Amen” to prayer for Stella Oduah in Israel on Sunday, it then dawned on President Jonathan that he can no longer allow Stella to sign another official document… In her stead, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs, Prof. Viola Onwuliri, signed the agreement on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria. Stella Oduah was shocked as she was present at the venue. Presidential spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati, confirmed that Stella Oduah did not sign the BASA agreement on behalf of the government. He however refused to explain why she was not allowed to sign. But a top Presidency source on the entourage of the President in Israel told Punch that the decision to stop Stella from signing the agreement was taken shortly after Jonathan arrived in Israel. That same reason, he added, informed the decision of the President’s aides to keep the minister away from the President since their arrival in the country.

Jonathan Finally Moves Against Stella Oduah

seems the prayers he made in Israel have finally opened the eyes of President Goodluck Jonathan to the rot in his government and the sins of people like Stella Oduah, the embattled Minister of Aviation. Jonathan finally took his first obvious action against Stella on Monday with the last-minute decision to stop her from signing the much-publicised Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with Israel. Following the refusal of many Nigerians to say “Amen” to prayer for Stella Oduah in Israel on Sunday, it then dawned on President Jonathan that he can no longer allow Stella to sign another official document… In her stead, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs, Prof. Viola Onwuliri, signed the agreement on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria. Stella Oduah was shocked as she was present at the venue. Presidential spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati, confirmed that Stella Oduah did not sign the BASA agreement on behalf of the government. He however refused to explain why she was not allowed to sign. But a top Presidency source on the entourage of the President in Israel told Punch that the decision to stop Stella from signing the agreement was taken shortly after Jonathan arrived in Israel. That same reason, he added, informed the decision of the President’s aides to keep the minister away from the President since their arrival in the country.

BREAKING NEWS: Court Orders Baraje’s Faction To Stop Parading Self As PDP

Kawu Baraje-led faction of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been ordered to stop parading itself as a parallel faction of the party by an Abuja High Court on Friday. The court also recognised the Bamanga Tukur-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the party as the authentic leadership of PDP. It will be recalled, that Tukur and other members of the NWC, who were elected at the Special National Convention on August 31, had filed a suit seeking to restrain Baraje and two others from parading themselves as executive members of the party. The others are the factional deputy National Chairman, Sam Jaja, and factional National Secretary, Olagunsoye Oyinlola. A former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, who is a member of the faction, was also joined in the suit. The ruling by the court followed a High Court sitting in Lagos that had a week ago dismissed a suit filed by the Baraje faction against the Tukur-led leadership of PDP. Justice Adefope Okojie dismissed the suit on the grounds that the court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the matter because it originated outside its territorial jurisdiction. The Baraje faction had approached the court on September 1, asking it to restrain Tukur and three other officials of his faction (Uche Secondus, Kema Chikwe, and Olisa Metuh) who are the Deputy National Chairman, Woman Leader, and National Publicity Secretary respectively, from parading themselves as national officers of the party. The decision of the Lagos court followed the preliminary objection filed by counsels to Tukur – Joe Kyari-Gadzama, and Emeka Etiaba. Both Counsels argued that the writs of summons did not comply with the mandatory requirements of Section 97 of the Sheriff and Civil Process Act because they were not endorsed. However, counsel to Baraje and two other officials of his faction, Robert Emukpaeruo, in his reply to the objection, argued that the court had jurisdiction to entertain the suit. Justice Okojie, however, stated in her ruling that even Baraje and his group had claimed in their affidavit that the course of action, which was the special national convention of the PDP, arose in Abuja. The judge said the PDP had its registered office in Abuja and that none of the defendants was resident in Lagos State. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had also October 2 turned down the request by the Baraje faction to recognise its NWC as the authentic leadership of the ruling party. INEC in a letter to the factional National Secretary, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, said it would not withdraw recognition of the National Working Committee, NWC, led by Bamanga Tukur, as the authentic leadership of the PDP because it monitored the conventions that produced it.

See Photo of Yinka Ayefele 13 Years Ago While On His Feet

That’s gospel singer, Yinka Ayefele and his wife Temitope Titilope on their wedding day in year 2000 before his accident. They have two sons together. Love their heights.

The Healing Power Of Bitter Kola

Bitter kola is a type of nut mostly found in several parts of Nigeria and West-Central Africa as a whole and the tree grows in the (tropical) rain forests. Its biological name is “Garcinia kola” and it belongs to the family of “Guittiferal”. Bitter Kola has been identified as a potent antibiotic which could be effective in the treatment of many diseases confronting people today. The fruit, seeds, nuts and bark of the tropical tree have been used for centuries in traditional medicines to treat many forms of ailments. Below are the benefits of Bitter Kola: Chewing bitter kola relieves coughs, hoarseness, bronchial and throat troubles. Several studies discovered bitter kola to be a remedy for dysentery, osteoarthritis, antidote against poisoning and considered an aphrodisiac. Improves lung functions Bitter kola has been used for centuries to treat chest colds in traditional medicine, but research has taken a look and found out why it is effective. A study in the 2009 issue of The Internet Journal of Pulmonary Medicine, performed on mice, reports that Garcinia kola improved respiratory function after 28 days of use of a Garcinia extract. Written by Simon Adekunle of the Ekiti State University in Nigeria, the study shows that Garcinia kola works by dilating the alveolar ducts and sacs in the lungs by improving the strength of the fibers in the lung tissue. Bitter kola’s beneficial lung properties are attributed to its high antioxidant content. Bitter Kola health benefit for malaria Considerable experimental studies found the chemical constituents in bitter kola have anti-malaria properties. That aside, traditional healers have, for years, prescribed bitter kola for the treatment of malaria infections. Researchers who reported that bitter kola had anti-malaria effect in the 2010 issue of Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, from a survey of plants used by traditional healers in the Democratic Republic of Congo, attributed this to its quinones content. Further more, kolaviron, the powerful chemical compound found in bitter kola, was reportedly tested on a malaria parasite and found to inhibit malarial activity.

Call off strike, Sultan begs ASUU, doctors

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called on striking workers, particularly, the Academic Staff Union of Universities, to call off their strike and embrace dialogue. The Sultan, while delivering his Eid-el-Kabir message to the Muslim faithful at his palace in Sokoto on Tuesday, urged all striking workers to go back to the negotiation table. He said, “We wish to use this opportunity to call on all those on strikes, especially the university lecturers, to call off their strikes, so as to reduce the suffering of the people. “And they should go back to the negotiation table in order to bring an end to the crisis.” Abubakar also called on the Federal Government to listen to the yearnings of the striking workers. He said, “This creates problems in the development of the country. We call on the government to listen to the complaints of the workers with the intention of solving them. “The workers on their part should always be mindful of the suffering of the teeming populace in the country.” He said the strike by the university lecturers, which is in its fourth month, had caused a lot of hardships to millions of students and their parents. “The strike action of medical workers has, on its part, caused loss of many lives and untold suffering to the sick that cannot afford going to private clinics,” Abubakar said. He also, he expressed concern about the level of insecurity in the country, saying “it is a matter of great concern.” He appealed to all Muslims to live peacefully with all and avoid acts of violence. The religious leader said, “The prophet of Allah (peace be upon him) has cursed anyone who serves as a source of insecurity. “As a result of this, we wish to call on the politicians, especially those holding executive positions, to help in ensuring the security of this country and to conduct themselves in truth and with the fear of Allah.” He said, such would lead to the desired progress and peace in the nation. “They should consider the security situation of the country and try to improve the lot of the people who elected them, so as to bring meaningful development to the nation,” he said.

Jonathan vows to implement outcome of national conference

President Goodluck Jonathan has vowed to act on the outcome of the planned national conference, by forwarding the recommendations to the National Assembly for legislative action. Mr Jonathan said Tuesday the outcome of the talks will be useful for the ongoing constitution amendment. Mr Jonathan stated this in Abuja on Tuesday when he received members of the Muslim community who paid him Sallah homage at the presidential villa. The remarks were his second in two days as he sought to dispel fears expressed by critics that his government lacks the sincerity and the capacity to implement the outcome of the conference. The president urged politicians to stop utterances that incite and instigate hate, saying the dialogue process must lead Nigerians to talk with a direction and not dissension. “In Nigeria, we must work very hard; we must talk to ourselves the way that our children will not develop hate amongst themselves. And that is one of the key reasons that we decided to have a conversation as a nation,” the president said. “At times, when you listen to radio and read the papers, you see even our elders that are supposed to give us leadership quarrelling over nothing. “(And) sometimes, even insulting themselves and even making provocative statements that will sometimes instigate one group against the other. “We decided that we cannot continue that way; the talking must have a direction. What has been happening on the pages of the newspapers are discussions that have no direction. “We want a country that will have a direction, so the discussions must have a direction. “The discussions must lead Nigeria to where we want to be, not a divided Nigeria, not a Nigeria that is sown on hate. “Also not a Nigeria that will be based on acrimony, ethnicity and tribal sentiments in the way we conduct ourselves. “That is a reason we set up that committee and we have given them the free will. “Some people are still instigating others that the president is doing this, the government does not have the capacity to do that.’’ Mr Jonathan, however, assured “that government is totally committed to doing what is right.’’ The president further reassured that his administration would implement the reports of previous committees set up by government on National Dialogue. He said some of the reports had already been submitted to the National Assembly for further considerations. “Even the Justice Uwais’s committee that was set up, that report was passed on to the National Assembly in 2010. “We brought Belgore and others and I said in 2005 Nigerians discussed some things; why don’t we begin to implement some of them. “So, we need to come up with some bills in those areas we have agreed and we will push them to the National Assembly. “Of course, some of those bills have not come out from the National Assembly, but we believe that even in the constitution amendment that is going on, some will be useful.’’ The president, therefore, enjoined Nigerians to impress it on their representatives in the National and State Houses of Assembly to work together and ensure the proposals were enshrined in the constitution. He thanked God that in spite of the challenges facing the country, the Muslims were able to celebrate the Eid-El-Kabir. He urged Nigerians to inculcate in their children the virtues that would encourage unity in the country to ensure that the coming generations lived in peace. “We must build a Nigeria that wherever you go you call the next person your own brother or sister, “A Nigeria that our young children who will become adult will say that I am proud to be a Nigerian, not a Nigeria that people will kill them probably because they don’t recognise them. “The killing has been going on in some parts of the country; it has nothing to do with religion and ethnicity. “That is why I asked those who killed those 50 students if they even bothered about their religion our ethnicity? “It has nothing to do with religion, it has nothing to do with ethnicity, it is because the world generally is experiencing terrorism.’’ Earlier, Vice-President Namadi Sambo thanked the President for his guidance and leadership in ensuring political stability in the country. He also thanked him for the planned convocation of the national dialogue which he said, would unite and move the nation forward. Mr Sambo had performed the two Raka’at Eid-El-Kabir prayer along with some members of the Federal Executive Council, service chiefs and many others at the National Sallah praying ground, Lugbe, Abuja. Speaking to newsmen after the prayer session, Mr Sambo enjoined Nigerians to continue to pray for the peace and progress of the country. The Acting Chief Imam of National Mosque, Ibrahim Makari, led the Eid-El-Kabir two-raka’at prayer at the prayer ground. He later slaughtered a ram there to signify the religious ritual in line with the teaching of the Holy Quran.

7 foods that make you smell bad

Over-eating will lead to issues liker perspiration and unwanted sweat. 1. Spicy food A spice overload can lead to excessive sulfur in your food intake, which will be eliminated through skin’s pores and breath. Ensure that you eat well-balanced meals that aren’t too heavy on garlic, onions or piping hot curries. 2. Red meat Red meat requires maximum digestion effort for your body to process. Over-eating will lead to issues liker perspiration and unwanted sweat. While vegetarians might not have such issues with their limited food intake, fenugreek and other strong flavoured plants cause similar results. 3. Alcohol Chocolate, soda, tea, coffee, alcohol – consuming any of these in excess causes body odour as when you drink them atleast 10% of it will be left unprocessed causing perspiration. Excessive alcohol, in particular, may cause body odour. 4. Junk foods Excessive consumption of junk foods with next to no exercise routine, will lead to accumulation of fatty cells inside your body which is the chief reason behind sweating and BO. They lead to unwanted breath and body odour as the food takes longer than their healthier counterparts to get digested. Foods high in hydrogenated oil, sugar, flour, salt and so on are not good when consumed in excess. 5. Low carbs A diet which does not contain carbs can lead to a greater release of sweat in the body and also excess of protein foods. This process leads to a release of chemical called ketones in your bloodstream which lead to unwanted smell. 6. Dairy products Again, dairy products are rich in protein and high consumption of these food items will take longer for your stomach to digest them. Excess consumption of dairy products can lead to release of hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan in the body which can easily trigger off a foul smell. 7. Tobacco We all know it. When the smoke of cigarettes mingles with other sweat glands in the body it’ll lead to a release of a distinctive smell which leads to a specific ‘smoker’ smell that lingers on everything from clothing to hair.

10 Super Foods You and Your Family Should Eat Every Day

While the old adage “you are what you eat” is only partially true – you are also what your genetics predisposes you to be – what we put into our bodies clearly does have an impact on our health and overall well-being. And while some diets may promise a magic bullet to healthier aging, there are a few basic food rules that we really shouldn’t stray from. Eat a plant-based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Choose foods with healthy fats, like olive and canola oil, nuts and fatty fish. Limit red meat and foods that are high in saturated fat and avoid foods that contain trans fats. Drink water and other healthy beverages, and limit sugary drinks and salt. Here are 10 super foods that you should be having every day: 1. Choose good carbs. Whole grains are your best bet. 2. Pay attention to the protein package. Fish, poultry, nuts, and beans are the best choices. 3. Choose foods with healthy fats, limit foods high in saturated fat, and avoid foods with trans fat. Plant oils, nuts, and fish are the healthiest sources. 4. Choose a fiber-filled diet, rich in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. 5. Eat more vegetables and fruits. Go for color and variety – dark green, yellow, orange, and red. 6. Calcium is important. But milk isn’t the only, but may be the best and cheap source of it. 7. Water is best to quench your thirst. Skip the sugary drinks, and go easy on the milk and juice. 8. Eating less salt is good for everyone’s health. Choose more fresh foods and fewer processed foods. 9. Moderate drinking can be healthy- but not for everyone. You must weigh the benefits and risks. 10. A daily multivitamin is a great nutrition insurance policy. Some extra vitamin D may add an extra health boost.

Suicide Bombers Blow Themselves Up In A Failed Attempt To Blow Up The Super Eagles

The Ethiopian goverment has revealed that terrorists who had planned to blow up the game between Nigeria and Ethiopia had accidently blown theirself up. The explosion on Sunday happened in the upscale Bole district of the capital, about 5 km (3 miles) from Addis Ababa Stadium where thousands of fans were gathering for the match. “They were Somali nationals and plotted to carry out a suicide attack disguised as fans on either the stadium or areas where large crowds gathered to watch the game,” government spokesman Shimeles Kemal said. Explosives, arms, hand grenades and football shirts were found at the scene of the blast, at a residential address an hour before kick-off, Shimeles said. Three suspects were detained. The Bole district has a small Somali refugee community. “Heavy police presence must have caused their nervousness and state of agitation which led to the detonation that caused their own death,” Shimeles said. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Somalia’s al Shabaab Islamist rebels have vowed to exact revenge on Ethiopia for sending troops to Somalia to fight the al Qaeda-linked militants, alongside African Union forces from Uganda, Burundi and Kenya. Ethiopia says it has thwarted attacks over the past two years which it has blamed on domestic rebel groups as well as the Somali insurgents. However, it has so far been spared the sorts of attacks carried out in nearby countries – such as the siege at the Nairobi mall last month and an attack on football fans in Uganda in 2010.

UCH performs 1st open heart surgery

The first open heart surgery in a teaching hospital in Nigeria has been successfully carried out at the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan, Oyo State. The feat was carried out by surgeons at the UCH in conjunction with a team of surgeons from Tri-State Cardiovascular Delaware, United States of America, A statement by the institution’s Head of Information Unit, Mr. Toye Akinrinola, disclosed that the four-hour surgery was to correct a leaking heart valve in a 19-year-old secondary school leaver. An elated Chief Medical Director of the UCH, Professor Temitope Alonge, noted that the UCH was moved to embark on the exercise as a way of alleviating the hardship being experienced by Nigerians with heart-related challenges. He stated that as the first teaching hospital in Nigeria, the UCH should take the lead in critical areas of medicine, propelling it into ensuring that complex surgeries (like open heart surgery) were carried out in the hospital. feat: The surgical team that performed the feat at University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan. “We are the pioneer teaching hospital in Nigeria, and we should be taking the lead. We are going to do this and we intend to make it a continuous exercise. “In fact, within the next six months, we intend carrying out not less than 30 heart-related surgeries and at affordable cost to Nigerians.” Alonge, who lamented that Nigerians pay exorbitantly to undergo such procedures outside the country, pointing out that the cheapest rate outside Nigeria was about N2.5 million. “This is outside the airfare and hotel bills. It will run into millions. But with us here, it will be a lot cheaper and the access is there. The first surgery is heavily subsidised as a way of encouraging Nigerians to have confidence in our healthcare system.” Alonge stated that the Federal Government had given the UCH a mandate to improve on the training of doctors as a way of enhancing more access to adequate healthcare in Nigeria. Leader of the doctors from the USA, Dr. Kamar Adeleke noted that the patient would be back to his normal activities in less than two months. “He does not have anything to fear about life expectancy. He will soon resume his normal activities, and do all the things he was used to before he took ill,” Dr. Adeleke said. Adeleke gave assurance of his continued support to providing access to adequate healthcare as obtained in other developed countries.

Midfielder Nosa Igiebor suffered a cut on his right palm as the Nigeria team bus was attacked by furious Ethiopia fans after Sunday’s 2-1 win by Nigeria.

The Nigeria bus left the stadium with delay. When it finally did, the waiting fans started throwing missiles at it and even broke the rear window. Igiebor was hit on the hand by a big stone and received serious bleeding, which needed immediate attention of team doctor Ibrahim Gyaran. NFF General Secretary Musa Amadu explained that because of this incident the players missed the dinner arranged in their honor by the Nigerian embassy in Ethiopia. “Their bus was stoned, and a player was injured,” Amadu told the gathering. “As a result, the players do not feel safe enough to come out from their hotel.” This issue has been reported to the FIFA Security team at the match venue and to the Ethiopian Police by Eagles Chief security Officer, ACP Baba Abubakar. Source: KickOff

Where are all the education funds? Omotola asks FG, ASUU

As the face off between the Academic Staff Union of University, ASUU and the Federal Government lingers one of Nollywood actress, Omotola Ekeinde has added her voice to the cry for solution. Omotola on her twitter handle want to know why there is a ‘crippling silence’ on the strike issue that has been on for months now with out solution. One will but join her to ask what importance do the two parties place on the lives of the youths of this nation when majority of them are at home doing what? When they should be studying. Omotola twitted Why is there a crippling silence when Nigerian schools have been SHUT 4 mouths and the youths are wasting away with their future uncertain? Why are students of the Most Populous Black Nation in the World “Giant” of Africa Not in schools? where are all the education funds? Education is a right not privilege. This should be the 1st Responsibility of every parent, state and country to their child. One true question that is begging for answer is where are all the education founds ? Omotola has asked and i hope she will get answers

UNILAG PG/Masters 2013/2014 Courses and Fees

1. MBA P/T ---N350K MBA F/T ---N150K MBA Executive N1.2M 2. M.A TRANSLATION OF FRENCH doesn't have PT, but FT=75K 3. M.A ENGLISH PT=120K AND FT=75K 4. M.SC GEOLOGY= 150K (TUITION) AND 60K (FILED WORK) 5. M.SC GEOPHYSICS = 150K (TUITION) AND 60K (FILED WORK) 6. M.SC MET MAT IS AVAIL ONLY ON FULL TIME, TUITION IS 75K. PGD MET MAT IS ON PT, TUITION IS 75K 7. Cell and molecular Biology---TUITION IS 90K 8. M.SC COMP SCI IS FULL TIME (ONLY), TUITION IS 75K 9. MIT (MASTERS OF INFO TECHNOLOGY)IS PART TIME, TUITION IS 150K 10. M.SC ELECT ENGR (COMMUNICATION OPTION, CONTROL OPTION, ELECTRONICS OPTION AND ELECTRICAL POWER OPTION) AVAIL ON BOTH FT(75K) AND PT(80K) 11. M.SC FINANCE PT IS 100K AND FT 75K 12. M.SC ECONS PT IS 100K AND FT 75K 13. M.SC MANAGEMENT PT IS 100K AND FT 75K 14. M.SC MARKETING PT IS 100K AND FT 75K 15. M.ED EDU ADMIN; PT=70K AND FT=75K 16. M.SC MICROBIOLOGY IS ON FT ONLY= 90K. 17. M.SC Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Management- TUITION FEE IS; 90K 18. M.A ENGLISH PT=120K AND FT=75K 19. M.SC OPERATION RESEARCH PT IS 100K AND FT 75K 20. M.SC ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR PT IS 100K AND FT 75K

Governor Fashola intervenes to save Pa Kasumu

The Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola has made inquiries concerning the health of veteran actor Pa Kasumu. According to THE NET, the Governor has made contact with the family of Pa Kasumu concerning his health. “Governor Fashola is a very proactive governor. Just when we were still trying to send letters out and raise funds from different sources, he intervened and has asked that my father be taken for a new test. We are really grateful to the God, the Governor and to Nigerians” said Tunde Odumosu, Pa Kasumu’s son. "Although he (Governor Fashola) hasn’t really declared a figure, we are hopeful that since God has touched him to ask my father to undergo a test, he will fully intervene” he further said. Earlier this week it was revealed that Pa Kasumu was suffering from heart and liver diseases. The veteran actor is in need of N12m to treat his health issues.

10 Things Women Should Know About Fibroids

1. WHAT IS A FIBROID? A fibroid (also called a leiomyoma) is a non-cancerous growth in the womb (focus is on uterine fibroids). A fibroid usually originates from the smooth muscles of a woman’s uterus (womb). The growth can be single or multiple and there are various types. Fibroids are the most common benign growths in women and they are seen mainly when women reach their middle or latter part of their reproductive years. In short, they are seen mainly in a woman’s child-bearing years. A fibroid may grow rapidly, shrink or stay the same. They can be so tiny that you cannot even see them with the naked eyes or get so large that they occupy all the abdominal region of a woman and even reach the chest (see pictures). Fibroids can grow anywhere in the body but are mainly seen in the womb (uterus), oesophagus and the small intestine. They can also stay in a woman’s body for decades. 2. WHAT CAUSES FIBROIDS? Well, doctors do not exactly know what causes fibroids but a number of factors have been associated with the condition. One is the gene. Fibroids run in families and identical twins have been noticed to have it more than non-identical twins. Another factor that has been pointed are the hormones (chemical substances produced in the body) oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones are normally produced in the body but for some unknown reasons, they promote the growth of fibroids. And that also explains why women do not have fibroids after menopause because the levels of these hormones drop drastically. Also, it must be stated that the rate of incidence of fibroids is higher in the following women: -Black women (African descent) -Obese women (slow down on those burgers, ok?) -Women who have never given birth before or women who have never carried a pregnancy beyond 20 weeks. Such women are called nulliparous women and they also stand an increased risk of breast cancer. Yes, giving birth reduces the risk of breast cancer. -Women who have suffered from conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome which is actually very common in ladies. Other diseases associated with fibroids include diabetes and hypertension. 3. CAN FIBROIDS CAUSE INFERTILITY?Yes. As a matter of fact, a small percentage of women are infertile as a result of fibroids. This is when the fibroid is located where the embryo is supposed to implant (sit). In some other cases, the fibroids are so big that they clog the oviducts (Fallopian tubes) thus blocking the eggs coming from the ovaries into the uterus. 4. CAN FIBROIDS LEAD TO MISCARRIAGE OR EVEN AFFECT A PREGNANCY? In very rare cases, fibroids can interfere with a pregnancy. Depending on the size, location and other factors, a fibroid can trigger a miscarriage, cause bleeding, premature birth or even affect the way the baby is positioned. Please, always see your doctor for proper examination before, during and after pregnancy. Do not just brush any symptom as ‘ordinari headache or stomach ache’. But the interesting thing is that fibroids do not grow during pregnancy as the pregnancy itself confers some degree of protective effect. 5. WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF HAVING FIBROIDS? Although when fibroids are small, there is really nothing to worry about as they do not lead to symptoms but there are some other cases where the fibroids are either big or cause uncomfortable symptoms for the woman. Once a woman experiences any of the following symptoms which can result from fibroids, then it is time to seek assistance: -Dyspareunia: This is pain during sexual intercourse. Since sex is a very crucial component of marriage, see your doctor if you are always feeling hurt during coitus with your spouse. It may be due to a fibroid growth. -Heavy and painful menses: You will agree with me that this is not funny at all. -Frequent urination. -Other forms of bleeding like gynecological bleeding which is heavy non-menstrual bleeding. This can lead to anaemia and iron deficiency if care is not taken. -Constipation. -Bloated abdomen. 6. CAN A MAN HAVE FIBROIDS?Yes, as stated earlier, a man can also have fibroids (but this piece is focusing on uterine fibroids which is seen only in women). In 1919, a diagnosis was made at a US Army General Hospital of a male patient (a soldier) with multiple fibroids (five to be specific) in the pelvis (Annals of Surgery, Ann Surg.1920 June; 71(6): 755–756.1.). So, it is not only a woman thing. Men also have breast cancer too for those who may not know. Medics may want to read more on the case of male fibroids HERE 7. WHAT ARE THE FORMS OF TREATMENTS AVAILABLE? Some women usually get terrified when a diagnosis of fibroids has been made. Well, the truth is that there is actually nothing to worry about as fibroids is mainly a benign (non-cancerous) condition and there are various modes and forms of treatments that you can employ and cheaply too. I am not very sure but I don’t think myomectomies are that expensive even in Nigerian teaching hospitals (government, kit up our hospitals and appreciate the efforts of doctors). These include: -Drugs: There are specially formulated drugs that women can take to dissolve the growths or address the various symptoms that are produced (like the painful menses). Always consult with your doctor and do not embark on self-medication. -Surgery: Called myomectomy, the aim of this surgical operation is to remove the fibroids. Another form of surgery is the entire removal of the womb (called hysterectomy) but this is usually recommended as a last option. Many American women opt for this but Nigeria is not Yankee. Many Nigerian women still cherish their wombs (apo omo) even if they have given birth to a dozen children…lol! -Ultrasound can also be used to destroy the fibroid growth. Always consult your doctor and do not take to self-medications. Do not even swallow any herbs or drink any agbo (local concoction) that your female friends recommended for you because ‘it works like wonders’. Have an appointment with your doctor and get the most ideal treatment. 8. CAN FIBROIDS LEAD TO CANCER AND CAN THERE BE FIBROIDS AFTER MENOPAUSE? Yes, but luckily, this is an exceedingly rare occurrence. A fibroid can turn cancerous to become what is known as a leiomyosarcoma. Yes, postmenopausal fibroids are possible but are rare indeed. 9. HOW CAN FIBROIDS BE PREVENTED? There is no specific preventive measure against fibroids but you can adopt a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risks of some factors mentioned above. Eat healthy, exercise more and leave a stress-free life. 10. THANKS A LOT FOR YOUR TIME

Meet The Top Nigerians Who Are Making Waves In Hollywood

Nigeria is blessed with both human and natural resources; exports intellectuals round the globe representing the home nation, and the entertainment industry is not left out. Leadership’s Anthony Ada Abraham profiles some of the top Nigerian born actors in Hollywood:

Hakeem Kae-Kazim This British Nigerian actor who is best known for his portrayal of Georges Rutaganda in the 2004 motion picture Hotel Rwanda shares birthday with his home country Nigeria. Born October 1, 1962, the energetic actor also starred in the movie Inale (2010), and he is sometimes credited as “Hakim Kae Kazim”. He also featured as Colonel Iké Dubaku in season 7 of the Fox television series ’24′ and the TV film tie-in 24: Redemption. Other movies are Last Flight to Abuja (2012), Girl Soldier (2011), Darfur (film) (2009), The Fourth Kind (2009), X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009), Big Fellas(2007), Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End (2007), Hotel Rwanda (2004),Half of a Yellow Sun (2013) and others. David Oyelowo He is best known for playing MI5 officer Danny Hunter in the British TV drama series Spooks (known in North America as MI-5) from 2002 to 2004. Born in Oxford, Oxfordshire, England, to Nigerian parents, Oyelowo first attended a youth theatre after being invited by a girl to whom he was attracted. He then studied theatre studies for A level at City and Islington College and his teacher suggested he should become an actor. After A levels, he enrolled for a one year art foundation course, before winning a place and scholarship at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), finishing his three-year training in 1998. He had before that appeared in Tomorrow La Scala (2002), Maisie Raine (1998) and Brothers and Sisters (1998). Soon after the end of his time on Spooks, Oyelowo made a cameo appearance in the 2005 Christmas special of ‘As Time Goes By’. In 2006 he appeared in the TV film ‘Born Equal’ alongside Nikki Amuka-Bird as a couple fleeing persecution in Nigeria – they also both appeared in ‘Shoot the Messenger’ (2006), and in ‘The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency’ (2008) as a husband and wife. Oyelowo was signed up for the voice cast of the Star Wars Episode 7 animated series being made by Lucasfilm Animation. The news didn’t come as a suprise to those who knew Oyelowo who has starred in a previous Lucasfilm production Red Tails and had a role in Lincoln, which was produced by Star Wars Episode 7’s Kathleen Kennedy. He stars as Forest Whitaker’s son in Lee Daniel’s ‘The Butler’ and currently shooting a new film ‘Interstellar’ for Christopher Nolan. Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje This well known figure in Hollywood was born in Islington, London. His parents are Nigerians, of Yoruba origin. He has a law degree from King’s College London and a Masters in Law from the University of London. His best known acting roles have been as the imposing convict Simon Adebisi in the 1990s HBO prison series Oz, and as Mr Eko on ABC’s survivor drama Lost. He was also in an episode of New York Undercover. He has numerous film credits since he began acting in 1994 and has appeared in many top films, including The Bourne Identity, in which he played a deposed African dictator, Hitu the police officer in Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls, Lock-Nah in The Mummy Returns, and Heavy Duty in G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra. In 2009, Akinnuoye-Agbaje told MTV that he was in talks with Marvel Studios to play Black Panther in the film of the same name. When asked, the actor replied “We’re talking to Marvel about ‘Black Panther… This is the first round, so you know; hopefully they’ll look at ‘G.I. Joe’ and see the potential. But it’s about time we have a black superhero, isn’t it? He’s from a fictional village in Africa and the timing is so right for that kind of character to come through… And while I’m in my prime, this is the time. We’ve got [U.S. President Barack] Obama, now we need something onscreen to represent, so… ‘Panther,’ man I would love to see that happen, and I think the more we – my people – campaign for that, the more viable it will be. And I mean, obviously appearing in cult-classics and blockbusters all help, we’re very much on [Marvel’s] radar…I think it’s all about campaigning, I’m going to keep knocking on their door.” However, Marvel Studios have not yet confirmed that he will get the role. Chiwetelu Umeadi “Chiwetel” Ejiofor He has received numerous acting awards and nominations, including the 2006 BAFTA Awards Rising Star, three Golden Globe Awards’ nominations, and the 2008 Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor for his performance in Othello. Born July 10, 1977 in London’s Forest Gate to Nigerian parents who belonged to the Igbo ethnic group, his father, Arinze, was a doctor, and his mother, Obiajulu, was a pharmacist. In 1988, when Ejiofor was 11, during a family trip to Nigeria for a wedding, he and his father were driving to Lagos after the celebrations when their car was involved in a head-on crash with a lorry. His father was killed, but Ejiofor survived. He was badly injured, and received the scars on his forehead. Ejiofor began acting in school plays at the age of thirteen at Dulwich College and joined the National Youth Theatre. He then got into the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art but had to leave after his first year, after getting a role in Steven Spielberg’s film Amistad. He played the title role in Othello at the Bloomsbury Theatre in September 1995, and again at the Theatre Royal, Glasgow in 1996 when he starred opposite Rachael Stirling, who played Desdemona. Ejiofor made his film debut in the television film Deadly Voyage in 1996. Ejiofor had his first leading film role in 2002’s Dirty Pretty Things, for which he won a British Independent Film Award for best actor. In the following year, he was part of the ensemble cast of Love Actually, starred in a BBC adaptation of Chaucer’sThe Knight’s Tale and also starred in the BBC series Trust. Ejiofor’s performance in Tsunami: The Aftermath received a 2007 Golden Globe nomination for best actor in a mini-series or film made for TV. In 2007, Ejiofor starred opposite Don Cheadle in Talk to Me, a film based on the true story of Ralph “Petey” Greene (played by Cheadle), an African-American radio personality in the 1960s and ‘70s. He performed on stage in The Seagull at the Royal Court Theatre from January 18 to March 17, 2007. Ejiofor is considered one of the leading candidates to play T’Challa/Black Panther in the proposed Black Panther film based on the Marvel comic books character. In 2007, Ejiofor reprised his role as Othello at the Donmar Warehouse, alongside Kelly Reilly as Desdemona and Ewan McGregor as Iago. The production received favourable reviews, with particularly strong praise for Ejiofor. “Chiwetel Ejiofor produces one of the most memorable performances of Othello in recent years”. He was awarded the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor for his performance. Ejiofor was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2008 Birthday Honours. In the same year, he made his directorial debut in the short film Slapper, which he also wrote, based on an idea by editor/director Yusuf Pirhasan. Ejiofor appeared alongside John Cusack in the 2009 film 2012. The film went on to gross over $700 million, and is among the list of highest-grossing films of all time and placing 5th of top films of 2009. In 2013, Ejiofor appeared in the leading role in the BBC Two drama seriesDancing on the Edge, playing the part of band creator Louis Lester. He is working on more award-winning movies. Gbenga Akinnagbe He is an American actor, best known for his role as Chris Partlow on the HBO original series The Wire. Born in Washington, D.C. in December 12, 1978 to Nigerian parents and grew up in Silver Spring, Maryland. Akinnagbe was in and out of trouble as a youth. He is the second oldest of six children, with one older sister and four younger brothers. He attended Colonel Zadok A. Magruder High School in Rockville, Maryland. Akinnagbe attended Bucknell University on a wrestling scholarship, majoring in Political Science and English. He is the cousin of DC rapper Wale. He played “Ben Ellis” in the episode Contenders on the TV series Numb3rs. In the summer of 2006, Akinnagbe performed the role of “Zim” in the NYC Fringe Festival’s “Outstanding Play” award-winning production of Modern Missionary. In 2003, Akinnagbe auditioned for the role of Chris Partlow on the HBO seriesThe Wire and starting in 2004 began a frequent recurring role. In 2008 during the show’s fifth and final season, he was promoted to a series regular. In 2007, Akinnagbe appeared in the film The Savages with Philip Seymour Hoffman, Laura Linney, and Philip Bosco. He appeared in the remake of The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3, which was released by Sony in June 2009. Akinnagbe made a guest appearance on a Season 10 Law and Order: SVU episode entitled “Hell” as Elijah Okello, a former Ugandan child soldier living in New York, facing deportation. Akinnagbe’s former The Wire cast mate Robert Wisdom also appeared in that episode as Father Theo Burdett. In 2010 in Seattle, Washington Akinnagbe starred in world premiere play The Thin Place at The Intiman Theatre. He was also in this fall’s movie Lottery Ticket and is currently in The Good Wife as Pastor Isiah Easton. His former co-star from the The Wire, Frankie Faison, portrayed his father on the show in several episodes. He is currently starring as Kelly Slater, a new nurse in the 3rd season of the Showtime series Nurse Jackie. He will be seen in the lead role of Jack in the upcoming Independent film “Home”, directed by Jono Oliver. He is currently playing a drug lord in the USA series “Graceland” Caroline Chikezie Caroline Chikezie is a British actress, best known for playing Sasha Williams in As If, and Elaine Hardy in Footballers’ Wives. Chikezie was born February 19, 1974 in England to Nigerian parents. At fourteen, Chikezie was sent to boarding school in Nigeria in an attempt to make her abandon her dreams to become an actress. Prior to this she had attended weekend classes at Italia Conti. On her return to the United Kingdom she enrolled into Brunel University where she studied Medicinal Chemistry (she was expected to take over her father’s hospital in Nigeria), but left after lecturers decided that she was unsuited to academic life. She later won a scholarship to the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts. As a film actress, Chikezie has starred in lots of films as Nasuada in the movieEragon and IJE. Donald Adeosun Faison Born June 22, 1974, is an American actor, comedian, and voice actor best known by fans of the popular television Comedy-drama “Scrubs” (2001–2010) as a leading role, and as Murray in the film Clueless (1995) playing a minor role (reprised in the subsequent television series of the same name). He is a star of the TV Land situation comedy The Exes. Not only is he a favourite character, believe you didn’t know this American actor’s middle name is Yoruba, Adeosun. Faison has also co-starred in the films Remember the Titans (2000), Uptown Girls(2003), Something New (2006), Next Day Air (2009) and Kick-Ass 2 (2013). Faison was born in Harlem, New York, the son of Shirley, a talent agent, and Donald Faison, a building manager. His parents were active with the National Black Theatre in Harlem. Before his debut on Scrubs and Clueless, Faison appeared in a 1991 commercial for Folgers Coffee at the age of 17, in which he played the younger brother of a soldier returning from war. The following year, he appeared along with Malik Yoba, in the ABC News special Prejudice: Answering Children’s Questions, hosted by Peter Jennings. He then became famous for his role as “Murray Lawrence Duvall” in the film Clueless, the 1995 movie, and its subsequent television series, which ran from 1996 to 1999. In 1995, he also appeared inWaiting to Exhale as “Tarik”, the son of Loretta Devine’s character, “Gloria.” He was featured in New Jersey Drive. He also starred in Big Fat Liar alongside Frankie Muniz, Paul Giamatti, and Amanda Bynes. He had a recurring role as, “Tracy,” on Felicity, appeared in Remember the Titans, as the running-back turned corner-back Petey Jones, and provided voice work for various characters in the MTV animated series Clone High. He had minor roles in the sitcoms Sister Sister and Sabrina, the Teenage Witch and in the film Josie and the Pussycats. In 2005, Faison produced one episode of MTV’s Punk’d involving his Scrubs co-star Zach Braff. He has also appeared in the music videos for Brandy’s “Sittin’ Up in My Room”, Fall Out Boy’s cover of Michael Jackson’s “Beat It,” and Gavin Degraw’s “Chariot.” He is currently the host for the TBS comedy sketch show “Who Gets the Last Laugh”. Nonso Anozie This Nigerian was born 1979. An English actor who has worked on stage, film, and television. In the summer of 2002 he played the title role in William Shakespeare’s King Lear, and won the Ian Charleson Award in 2004 for his performance in Othello. Anozie was hired in 2006 to provide the voice for the armoured bear Iorek Byrnison in the film adaptation of Philip Pullman’s Northern Lights. Anozie was replaced by Ian McKellen two months before the film was set to be released. The film’s director, Chris Weitz, told Empire: Anozie played small roles as Think Tank in Guy Ritchie’s film RocknRolla and Frank Mace in Joe Wright’s Atonement. He played the lead in Cass a 2008 British crime drama film recreating the life of Cass Pennant. In 2009, he appeared in the supporting cast of the BBC TV three part 2003 Iraq War drama, Occupation, where he played a US Marine turned private military contractor. In 2011, he played Artus, a Zamoran pirate and close friend of Conan, in Conan the Barbarian. That year, he was also cast to play the role of Xaro Xhoan Daxos in the HBO series Game of Thrones and was cast as Jackson Burke in The Grey. He also plays the role of Samson in the History Channel’s television miniseries The Bible. Sophie Okonedo Sophie Okonedo, OBE, born 1968, is a British actress, who has starred in successful British and American productions. In 1991, she made her acting debut in the British critically acclaimed coming-of-age drama, Young Soul Rebels. She has received an Academy Award nomination for her critically acclaimed role inHotel Rwanda, a Golden Globe nomination for Tsunami: The Aftermath, and BAFTA nominations for Criminal Justice and Mrs. Mandela. Her other film roles included Aeon Flux, Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls, Dirty Pretty Things, Skinand The Secret Life of Bees. Okonedo was born in London, the daughter of Joan (née Allman), a pilates teacher, and Henry Okonedo (1939–2009), who worked for the government. Her father was Nigerian, and her mother, an Ashkenazi Jew, was born in the East End, to Yiddish-speaking immigrants from Poland and Russia. Okonedo was brought up in her mother’s Jewish faith. When she was five years old, her father left the family, and she was brought up in relative poverty by her single mother (“but we always had books,” she has said). Okonedo trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. She has worked in a variety of media including film, television, theatre and audio drama.

Complete List Of Winners At The Nollywood Movies Awards

Nollywood Movies Awards, 2013 edition, took place at the newly launched Intercontinental Hotel in Lagos. The event was hosted by Nollywood actor Segun Arinze and Dakore Akande. Surely, Kunle Afolanya’s hot movie – Phone Swap – carried the day. Full list of winners below: BEST MOVIE: 1. Hoodrush 2. Journey to self 3. The Meeting 4. Phone swap 5. Udeme mmi 6. Mrs Somebody BEST LEAD ACTOR: 1. Bayo Alawiye – The Gods are still not to blame 2. Gabriel Afolayan – First Cause 3. Iyke Adiele – Broken 4. OC Ukeje – Hoodrush 5. Moses Armstrong – Udeme mmi 6. Wale Ojo – Phone swap BEST LEAD ACTRESS: 1. Rita Dominic – The Meeting 2. Nse Ikpe Etim – Mr & Mrs 3. Mercy Johnson – Dumebi 4. Funke Akindele – Maami 5. Bimbo Akintola – Hoodrush 6. Uche Jombo – Mrs Somebody BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR: 1. Imeh Bishop Udoh – Udeme mmi 2. Akin Lewis – Heros & Zeros 3. Bimbo Manuel – Broken 4. Gabriel Afolayan – Hoodrush 5. Afeez Oyetoro – Phone swap 6. Bob Manuel Udokwu – Adesuwa BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS: 1. Ngozi Ezeonu – Adesuwa 2. Barbara Soky – Bridge of Hope 3. Ada Ameh – Phone swap 4. Chelsea Eze – Hoodrush 5. Mary Chukwu – Broken BEST ACTOR INDIGENOUS: 1. Ekere Nkanga – Kokomma 2. Wole Ojo – Maami 3. Segun ‘Lanko’ Ogunremi – Odasan 4. Imeh Bishop Udoh – Udeme mmi BEST ACTRESS INDIGENOUS: 1. Tope Brass – Odasan 2. Belinda Effah – Kokomma 3. Obonganwan Bennet-James – Udeme Mmi 4. Funke Akindele – Maami BEST INDIGENOUS MOVIE: 1. Udeme mmi 2. Odasan 3. Maami 4. Kokomma BEST DIRECTOR: 1. Mildred Okwo – The Meeting 2. Lancelot Imasuen – Udeme mmi 3. Dimeji Ajibola – Hoodrush 4. Kunle Afolayan – Phone swap 5. Tope Oshin Ogun – Journey to self BEST EDITING: 1. Paul Apel – Mr & Mrs 2. Yemi Jolaosho – Phone swap 3. Victor Ehi-Amedu – Adesuwa 4. Dimeji Ajibola – Hoodrush 5. Okey Benson – The Meeting 6. Kunle Adejuyigbe – Journey to self BEST SOUND DESIGN: 1. Obi Emelonye – Last flight to Abuja 2. Semiu Adewuyi – Kokomma 3. Carl Raccah – Journey to self 4. Olukunle Adegbite – The Gods are still not to blame 5. Alex Njuguna – The meeting 6. Dimeji Ajibola – Hoodrush BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY: 1. Alfred Chia – Heros & Zeros 2. James Costello – Last flight to Abuja 3. Shalom Uyi Enabulele – Broken 4. Yinka Edward – Phone Swap 5. Jim Bishop – The Meeting 6. Byron Ene – The Gods are still not to blame BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY: 1. Tunde Babalola – Maami 2. Mildred Okwo/ Tunde Babalola – The Meeting 3. Rita C Onwurah – Udeme mmi 4. Dimeji Ajibola – Hoodrush 5. Tchidi Chikere – Dumebi 6. Kemi Adesoye – Phone Swap BEST COSTUME DESIGN: 1: Jaiye Owolabi – The Gods are still not to blame 2. Titi Aluko – Phone swap 3. Ekene Okoye Mpon: Kiss and the brides 4. Yolanda Okereke/ Aminat Olateju – Journey to self 5. Wanger Ayu/ Rosaline Ijejem – Mr & Mrs 6. Iyen Agbonifo – Adesuwa BEST MAKE-UP 1. Temisan Etsede – Adesuwa 2. Touch of Glamour/Tobi Jeje- Phillip & Korede Olowoyo – Journey to self 3. Tracy Iyoha – The Gods are still not to blame 4. Jennifer Alegieuno – The Meeting 5. Olivia Obasi – Broken BEST SET DESIGN: 1. Pat Nebo – Phone swap 2. Adeoye Bakare – Heros & Zeros 3. Hilary Patrick – The Meeting 4. Sango B’ Song – Last flight to Abuja BEST SOUNDTRACK: 1. Truth – The Meeting 2. Luke Corradine – Last flight to Abuja 3. Patrick Mathias – Hoodrush 4. Slam – Udeme Mmi 5. Truth – Phone swap 6. Oludare Olateju – The Gods are still not to blame BEST DIASPORA MOVIE: 1. Man on Ground 2. Alaalo 3. Turning Point 4. The past came calling 5. Secret past BEST SHORT MOVIE: 1. Unspoken 2. 15 Minutes 3. Epitaph 4. Ogondah 5. Blink 6. Till Death do us apart BEST RISING STAR MALE: 1. OC Ukeje – Hoodrush 2. Ifeanyi Kalu – Kokomma 3. Bobby Obodo – Mrs Somebody 4. Uti Nwachukwu – In the cupboard BEST RISING STAR FEMALE: 1. Linda Ejiofor – The Meeting 2. Belinda Effah – Kokomma 3. Ijeoma Agu – Hoodrush 4. Rachel Isaac – Daisy 5. Tehila Adiele – Broken 6. Tess Abubakar – In the cupboard BEST CHILD ACTOR: 1. Ayomide Abati – Maami 2. Adeola Faseyi – Married but living single 3. Regina Ojeogwu – Wave of Glory 4- Obiora Samuel Olife – Broken Silence TOP BOX OFFICE MOVIE - Kunle Afolanya’s Phone Swap

NATIONAL CONFERENCE TOO CRITICAL TO BE LEFT TO THE FLIP-FLOPPING PRESIDENCY OF GOODLUCK JONATHAN - Bola Tinubu

Since I first made known my initial reaction to President Jonathan’s proposed National Dialogue/Conference, the daggers have been out against me. The paid public relations gangs of the administration and some sympathizers have gone into overdrive in the media and public fora to denounce me for the position I have taken. I thought I ought to enjoy the same right they have exercised by supporting Jonathan’s conference to also reject it and make my reaction known. Unfortunately it does not seem so. But I have news for them. I will not take anything I have said back on the proposed National Dialougue by this present administration. I insist that the planned national dialogue is a ‘Greek’ gift and public deception. I say beware of the Greek gift; let us first of all, ask a series of questions. The government's proposal is a walk down a back alley that leads only to a dead end. It has the same empty taste as sitting down to dine after all the food has been eaten and the table cleared. I intend to raise fundamental questions/interrogations in the following response. I am known to have always reviewed the message or policy action of government after which I simply proceed to respond to the message and not the messenger. But this time around, my focus and response is to the messenger and not the message essentially. Questioning the messenger and his motives is my mission here as a Nigerian and a political leader. Also, in warning against Jonathan’s proposed Conference, I will put forward a few practicable suggestions. The core questions to ask here is how credible, reliable and capable is the current President to be able to midwife a critical conference such as this? Will this President be sincere enough to let all the issues that are on the agenda be exhaustively discussed at the conference? Will this President have the guts to implement fully all final resolutions of the conference without fear or favor or any pandering? This is an administration that has been known to have flip-flopped on so many critical issues of national importance. President Jonathan was part of two issues of national importance in the recent past; Amnesty and the Uwais Panel on electoral reform. We all know what has happened to these two issues. The Amnesty conceived from inception has been corrupted and hijacked by the President’s clique. It is one of Nigeria’s drain pipes. A slush fund for political expeditions anda conduit to siphon money to the boys. The Uwais Panel report gathers dust and suffers from constant cherry picking. What about the much-publicized SURE-P initiative of this administration? Another ill-conceived and fraudulently implemented program of this administration. Billions of naira have so far disappeared into private pockets and the treasury still bleeds. I can go on and on. Is this the leader we want to trust with organizing a National dialogue or is it conference they call it? Where is the capability? Where is the sincerity? Where is the presence of mind? Recent Nigerian political history bears me out in this instance. Recall the call for a Sovereign National Conference began in earnest in the latter phase of the political transition programme of military president Ibrahim Babangida. Claiming that it was laying a solid foundation for a democracy that will endure, the regime turned Nigeria into a laboratory for all manner of political stunts. Nigerians came to conclude that the regime was pursuing a not-so-hidden agenda of self-perpetuation and called for a Sovereign National conference to replace a transition programme that had clearly lost its momentum and its direction. Next door, in Benin Republic, a Sovereign National Conference was being staged to chart a new course for a country that had virtually come to a standstill. Its crisp, bold and purposeful proceedings resonated in Nigeria, and Nigerians yearning for such a conference embraced the Beninoise model. The military regime seemed at a point to embrace the concept, too, and even tried to enlist some prominent citizens to translate it into practice. But when it appeared those citizens had taken the regime more seriously than it took itself, the regime scuttled the idea and decreed jail sentences for anyone purporting to stage a national conference. Then came the presidential election debacle of June 12, 1993, and with it, renewed calls for a Sovereign National Conference. The election crisis swept out the military regime, but not before it had planted a surrogate, the so-called Interim National Government, a clueless outfit that lasted three months but drove Nigeria to the edge of ruin, until it was overthrown by General Abacha. To win public acceptance, Abacha promised to stage a National Conference with “constituent powers.” This was another act of bad faith, for Abacha packed the assembly with his hand-picked nominees. Those who were not his nominees were products of an election that was widely boycotted, persons who could hardly be described as authentic representatives of their constituencies. The conference exercised nothing close to the “constituent powers” Abacha had promised. The five political parties that emerged from the constitutional framework designed by the Assembly all ended up endorsing Abacha as their presidential candidate. Abacha’s death ended the charade. Knowing that Nigerians were no longer prepared to put up with military rule, Abacha’s colleagues hastily put together a constitution to serve as the legal framework for the civilian administration inaugurated in 1999. The constitution was not published until it came into effect. It was not debated. Those who took office swore an oath to defend a Constitution they had not seen, and the provisions of which they did not know. Soon, it became clear that it was riddled with grave defects. Despite its portentous preface, “We, the People,” it was not a people’s constitution. The people played hardly any role in its writing. It did not reflect their yearnings. Some legal authorities even went so far as to call the document a forgery. And so, demands for a Sovereign National Conference broke out afresh, to design a new constitutional order for Nigeria, one anchored on the core principles of federalism and warranted by the preface, “We, the People.” Then came the Obasanjo’s constitutional review process by the National Assembly in the twilight of his administration. The process came up with 118 recommendations most of which were far reaching and dealt with critical and contentious issues of nationhood. It became ill-fated due to the failure to smuggle in the third term tenure extension provision. The rest, as they say, is now history. Now, we are about to embark on a similar futile exercise. And here is why. Until some two to three months back, our demands for a sovereign national conference found little sympathy in the Executive and Legislative branches of government, until some three weeks ago when Senate President, David Mark, issued a qualified endorsement. Then, in his National Independence Day Broadcast, President Jonathan Goodluck, announced to everyone’s surprise that the Federal Government would indeed sponsor a National Conference, at which Nigeria’s ethnic nationalists would discuss and negotiate the terms of continued association. Within days, Dr. Jonathan named a chairman and members of a committee to advise on modalities for staging the conference and submit a report within one month. I, like other well-meaning Nigerians, must welcome this shift. It is an admission, at last, that the wide cracks in the national fabric can no longer be papered over, and that the time has come for fresh thinking on fundamental problems, the existence of which has for too long been denied. Yet, President Jonathan’s epiphany–if epiphany it is and not an expedient calculated to enhance his 2015 reelection bid – should be subjected to searching questions. It is difficult to lay aside the suspicion that his sudden conversion is all about 2015. Otherwise, why the sudden endorsement of a National Conference, not merely in principle, but with a rush toward some form of implementation? What has happened that was not already in play in all those years during which the authorities rejected demands for a National Conference? Second, it is also difficult to lay aside the suspicion that the government is now embracing the idea with a view to watering it down, if not smothering it altogether. What its proponents have been canvassing is a Sovereign National Conference organized by the sovereign people of Nigeria, not one staged by the government. Government will figure in that Conference only as a facilitator, not as organizer. Many of the ethnic nationalities clamouring for a Sovereign National Conference are contesting nothing less than the legitimacy of the Nigerian State as presently constituted. It cannot be an answer to their misgivings that the Federal Government, the agent of that state, is set to take charge of a Sovereign National Conference designed to chart a new path. Third, Dr. Jonathan did not indicate whether the Conference will be sovereign or exercise constituent powers. That omission is not reassuring. What Nigerians have been demanding is a Sovereign National Conference whose decisions can only be ratified or rejected by the people in a national referendum. There is no room for a Government White Paper or Blue Paper or Paper of any colour whatsoever in such a scheme. Fourth, it must be asked whether this is an opportune moment for the conference, when the ruling party is in disarray, a large portion of the country is convulsed by Boko Haram violence and killings, and permutations over a general election have already taken centre stage in the affairs of the nation two years ahead of schedule. Would staging a National Conference in such a setting not overheat the polity? Would it not be better to defer the Conference until after the general elections? There is still so much to do to ensure that the election is free and fair, conforms to the best practices, and represents the true will of the people. Though I remain an unrepentant supporter of a genuine Sovereign National Conference, I am suspicious of this present concoction because it is half- baked and fully deceptive. Government's sincerity is questionable, the timing is also suspect. Now that this government is sinking in a pool of political and economic hot water of its own making, it seizes hold of the national conference idea as if it were a life jacket. This government habitually puts the wrong leg forward. In the face of debilitating terrorist attacks by Boko Haram, kidnappings across the country and a general insecurity, this government wants to open up another political front by hurriedly organizing a national conference. This rankles the brain. This government has not the honesty, foresight, tolerance and objectivity to hold a National Conference of any type. This government is so partisan and parochial, it can’t even hold its own party together. How dare it even think it can organize a national conference that lives up to its name by being truly representative of all the nation's constituent parts! At most, all they can conduct is a conference comprised of one section of their party and those shell, artificial civil society groups that purport to reflect the public's mind, yet do nothing but spew government propaganda and get paid good naira for their service. This government cannot hold a National Conference anymore than a comatose man can stand and hold up a candle that the rest of us might see our way to a better Nigeria. Before embarking on new public relations ploys to whitewash its tarnished record, the government should treat some long outstanding issues and matters. This government cannot give what it does not have. If the conference must be held now, we must return to the spade work already done by the Obasanjo government in the aspect of constitutional review. Let the Jonathan government bring it out, remove the third term toxic component and set up a technical review committee to examine the 118 recommendations therein. We must continue from where we disagreed. Nation building is a progressive work and to totally jettison the considerable spade work already done is to set back the hands of the clock. Time is not on our side. Secondly, this government should implement the Uwais recommendations on electoral reforms. That report was the work of imminent Nigerians and it was done after widespread consultations to constituencies far and wide. We all know that our electoral system is broken and unfair. If the President has done nothing to fully implement this corrective report that would fix a system so blatantly broken, why would he implement recommendations of national conference if those recommendations do not suit his narrow purposes? The government should first implement this important work in order to demonstrate to Nigerians that it can hold and honor the outcome of a National dialogue. This government should do so to show that it has nothing to hide and is willing to engage in the upcoming electoral contest on a level playing field. This government must first show good faith for Nigerians to believe them. President Jonathan is not the man to give Nigerians a true National Conference. He can only give us a “Jonathan Conference” as bitter icing on the sour cake his government has become. This government lacks the presence of mind and the decency to implement a national conference. This administration has not achieved any tangible transformation because it has no concrete goals. Now it tilts and staggers under the weight of insecurity. Claims of transformation and of building an economy that is robust and institutions of democracy, by the President shows someone who believes fiction is more important than fact and imagination is more genuine than reality. While I would not mind such a person to be a leading figure in our Nollywood film industry, I am frightened that he is the chief resident in Aso Villa. Both in timing and in style, previous administrations adopted the same tricks of National Conference as a framework to structure their agenda to which people presented memoranda and attended plenaries before realising it was a trick. This government's offer of a National Conference is a wingless bird. It will not fly. The advisory committee set up to design a framework and come up with recommendations as to the form, structure and mechanism of the process will soon find out they are on a journey with no destination save the wall of futility. Yes, we need to talk. However, we need a national conference that is truly sovereign and not one dictated by the reactionary and regressive elements of the ruling party. This is not the way to clear Nigeria from danger. This is a selfish ploy that will place the nation deeper in darkness and indirection. Nigeria is adrift and unless we start a discourse aimed at updating and improving our political economy and its structures, we might wake up one day from a night devoid of dreams because we have turned into a nation devoid of hope. However, an imposed national conference by individuals who have shown total disdain for anything nationalistic that does not unduly benefit them and who have demonstrated lack of respect for the opinions of others because they are in “Power” will have little success. It will be an empty and expensive futility with no true dividends for a people wanting their leaders to show them a way out of the pit and not a way deeper into it. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu