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Samuel Eto’o Threatens to Sue CAF Over Match-Fixing.

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Samuel Eto’o Threatens to Sue CAF Over Match-Fixing Allegations.

Samuel Eto’o, president of FECAFOOT, has announced his intention to sue the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following a disciplinary hearing regarding allegations of match-fixing against him. The Cameroonian football legend faces accusations related to his involvement in promoting a team owned by a close associate, among other charges including spreading false information and abusing power.

Key Points:

  • Allegations: Eto’o is accused of orchestrating match-fixing and other misconduct while serving as president of FECAFOOT.
  • Disciplinary Hearing: He appeared before a CAF panel recently to address these allegations.
  • Response: Eto’o expressed dissatisfaction with the process, criticizing CAF for premature press releases and alleging that his reputation was unfairly tarnished.
  • Legal Action: He has instructed his lawyers to pursue legal action against CAF to establish accountability for what he perceives as unacceptable behavior from the organization.

Conclusion: Samuel Eto’o’s decision to sue CAF marks a significant escalation in the controversy surrounding his tenure as FECAFOOT president, highlighting ongoing disputes and legal challenges within African football administration.

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Jude Bellingham Faces Potential Ban (WHY)

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Jude Bellingham Faces Potential Ban After Gesture in England’s Win Over Slovakia

Jude Bellingham’s celebration during England’s dramatic 2-1 victory over Slovakia in the round of 16 has sparked controversy, potentially leading to a ban for the midfielder ahead of the Three Lions’ quarter-final clash.

Key Details:

  • Incident: After scoring a crucial goal in the 95th minute, Bellingham made a gesture towards the Slovakia bench during his celebration.
  • Gesture Description: Reports indicate Bellingham’s gesture involved his right hand moving from his face towards his thigh in a motion that has drawn scrutiny.
  • Social Media Response: Bellingham clarified on social media that the gesture was an “inside joke” aimed at friends present at the game and expressed respect for Slovakia’s team.
  • UEFA’s Response: UEFA is reportedly considering a one-match suspension for Bellingham despite his explanation, as reported by Portuguese publication A Bola.
  • Impact: If sanctioned, Bellingham’s suspension would pose a significant setback for England’s coach Gareth Southgate as they prepare to face Switzerland in the upcoming quarter-final match.

Conclusion: The fallout from Jude Bellingham’s gesture underscores the potential consequences of on-field behavior in international competitions, with UEFA’s decision pending ahead of England’s crucial quarter-final fixture.

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Super Eagles Legends Shine at Africa Fashion

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Super Eagles Legends Shine at Africa Fashion Festival Week 2024 in Ethiopia.

Nigeria’s football icons Nwankwo Kanu and Daniel Amokachi have graced the Africa Fashion Festival Week 2024 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, adding star power to the prestigious event. The festival, hosted at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum from June 28 to 30, was inaugurated by Ethiopian officials including Minister of Culture and Sports, Mr. Kajela Merdassa, and Ambassador Nasise.

Key Highlights:

  • Celebrity Presence: Kanu and Amokachi were among the prominent figures at the festival, emphasizing the intersection of sports and fashion.
  • Ethiopian Hospitality: Kanu expressed admiration for Ethiopia, its people, and the warm reception they received, describing it as his first visit to the country. He praised Ethiopia’s beauty and hospitality, underscoring its unique place in Africa.

Event Details:

  • Participants: The festival attracted a diverse array of attendees including actors, social media influencers, designers, models, technology specialists, executives, diplomats, and more.
  • Official Sponsor: Ethiopian Airlines supported the event, highlighting its significance in promoting African culture and fashion on a global stage.

Conclusion: The presence of Kanu and Amokachi at the Africa Fashion Festival Week 2024 not only elevated the event but also celebrated the cultural richness and creativity across Africa. Their participation underscored the event’s role in showcasing African fashion and fostering cultural exchange.

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Atiku Abubakar Urges Federal Government to Address Terrorism

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Atiku Abubakar Urges Federal Government to Address Rising Terrorism in North-East

Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has strongly condemned the recent bomb attack in Borno State, warning the Federal Government against allowing the North-East to become a theater of terrorism. Atiku expressed his concerns in a post on his verified Facebook page on Sunday.

Condemnation of the Attack:

  • Atiku condemned the bomb attack that occurred at a wedding reception, a funeral procession, and a hospital in Borno State. He described the incidents as tragic and unacceptable.
  • The former vice-president stressed the importance of the government maintaining the gains made by security operatives in combating terrorism. He criticized the current administration for what he perceives as a lacklustre approach to security in the region.

Call to Action:

  • Atiku urged the federal authorities to wake up to their responsibilities and prevent the North-East from regressing into a hotbed of terrorism and extreme violence.
  • He emphasized the need for the government to reinforce its commitment to securing the region and protecting its inhabitants.

Condolences:

  • Atiku extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of these attacks. He prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and comfort for their bereaved families.

Atiku’s statement highlights the urgency of addressing the resurgence of terrorist activities in the North-East and calls on the government to take decisive action to ensure the safety and security of the region.

Peter Obi Criticizes Tinubu Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention

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Peter Obi Criticizes Tinubu Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention and Fiscal Policy.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration over two key issues: the detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and the implementation of four national budgets simultaneously.

Call for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release:

  • Addressing the media in Onitsha, Anambra State, Obi argued that the continued detention of Kanu is unjustifiable, especially given that the court had granted him bail. He emphasized the importance of the rule of law, stating, “Government must obey the law as the rule of law is an intrinsic asset that we must cherish and live with.”
  • Obi also expressed his willingness to engage in dialogue with various agitators to ensure peace and security. He urged the government to release Kanu and others in similar situations, underscoring that Nigeria, as a democratic nation, should not engage in arbitrary detentions.

Security Concerns:

  • Highlighting the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria, Obi stressed that the primary duty of any government is to ensure the safety of lives and property. He called for increased efforts from all levels of government to address the rampant insecurity, including killings, abductions, and kidnappings.
  • Obi urged the South East governors to collaborate more closely and engage with former leaders to find effective solutions. He recommended that they work with security agencies and vigilante groups to achieve their objectives.

Critique of Fiscal Policy:

  • Obi criticized the Tinubu administration’s plan to implement four national budgets simultaneously, describing it as chaotic and frivolous. He accused the government of fiscal irresponsibility, lacking transparency, and accountability.
  • In a series of tweets, Obi warned that such fiscal recklessness would lead to essential projects competing with frivolous items for limited resources, exacerbating the suffering of Nigerians. He stated, “This intentionally reckless action will lead to frivolous items in the approved budgets competing with essential projects for limited resources, further exacerbating the suffering of the Nigerian people.”
  • Obi appealed for a reversal of this policy, advocating for a more responsible and transparent approach to budgeting. He called on leaders to prioritize the needs of the Nigerian people over selfish interests.

Appeal for Responsible Leadership:

  • Emphasizing the need for frugality and responsibility in handling public resources, Obi urged leaders to desist from actions that could drive the country into economic chaos. He highlighted that both the National Assembly and the executive must act responsibly to manage the nation’s finances effectively.
  • Obi concluded with a call to action for all leaders to adopt a transparent and accountable approach to governance, stating that this is the only way to build a great nation.

Peter Obi’s criticisms reflect his concerns about the current administration’s policies and his commitment to advocating for the rule of law, security, and responsible governance in Nigeria.

Ighodalo Pledges to Transform Edo into a First World

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Ighodalo Pledges to Transform Edo into a First World Sub-National

In a significant campaign stop, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Edo into a first-world sub-national. Speaking to Edo indigenes in Hamburg, Germany, Ighodalo laid out his vision and plans for the state.

Engagement with the Diaspora:

  • Dr. Ighodalo, along with his running mate Barr Osarodion Ogie, has been engaging with the Edo Diaspora community in Europe. This tour has taken them to several cities, including Reggio Emilia in Italy, Manchester, and London in the UK, and will conclude in Nuremberg.
  • During these engagements, Ighodalo has been discussing his “Pathway to Prosperity for All” manifesto, emphasizing the need to build on the progress made by previous administrations.

Vision for Edo State:

  • Ighodalo highlighted the accomplishments of the current administration under Governor Godwin Obaseki, stating that it has set a foundation that must be built upon. He stressed that Edo State has the potential to become a first-world sub-national and must continue moving forward.
  • His plans focus on enhancing security, improving governance, and fostering economic development. He emphasized the importance of law and order, stating that Edo must set an example for the rest of Nigeria.

Key Pillars of the Manifesto:

  • Ighodalo’s manifesto addresses five major pillars aimed at ensuring prosperity for all Edo citizens. These include security, good governance, accountability, and transparency.
  • He assured that his administration would prioritize the safety and security of Edo State, creating a conducive environment for development.

Commitment to Accountability:

  • Ighodalo pledged to provide accessible and transparent governance, working diligently for the best interests of the Edo people.
  • He noted that while other parts of Nigeria may resist change, Edo is ready for progress and self-sufficiency. He dismissed the notion that only those who have lived their entire lives in Edo can contribute to its development, highlighting the global presence and achievements of Edo indigenes.

Security and Artefacts:

  • During a Q&A session, Ighodalo emphasized that security would be his administration’s top priority. He also addressed the issue of stolen artefacts, asserting that they must be returned to the Palace in Edo, as affirmed by a declaration from former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Personal Accountability:

  • In a notable moment, Ifeyinwa Ighodalo, the candidate’s wife, promised to hold her husband accountable for his commitments, particularly those related to women, youths, children, and the vulnerable, receiving strong support from the audience.

Dr. Ighodalo’s commitment to making Edo a first-world sub-national reflects a bold vision and a strategic plan aimed at leveraging the state’s potential and building on its past successes.

Nigerians Turn to Cucumber, Cayenne Pepper.

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Nigerians Turn to Cucumber, Cayenne Pepper as Tomato Prices Bite.

As the cost of tomatoes continues to rise sharply in Nigeria, many Nigerians are turning to alternative vegetables such as cucumber, carrot, and cayenne pepper to cope with the escalating prices of this essential ingredient in Nigerian cuisine.

Tomato Price Surge:

  • In recent months, the price of fresh tomatoes has increased by over 120 percent. A big basket of tomatoes now costs about N110,000 at Lagos’s Mile 12 market, compared to N40,000 to N50,000 a few months ago.
  • This price hike is driven by several factors, including seasonal changes and logistics costs, which are exacerbated by high fuel prices and middlemen levies.

Alternative Ingredients:

  • Cucumber and Cayenne Pepper: Nigerians are discovering new ways to prepare their staple dishes without tomatoes. For instance, Folake Aturamu, a mother of four, now uses cayenne pepper (locally known as ‘shombo’ or ‘tatashe’) and tomato paste to achieve the desired thickness for her stews.
  • Cucumber: Oluchi Duru, a mother of two, has started using cucumber in her stews. She mixes tomato paste, tatashe pepper, and cucumber to create a satisfactory tomato substitute.
  • Carrots: Elizabeth Onuoha, a businesswoman from Aba, combines carrots with cayenne and red bell peppers to make stews and jollof rice, achieving a taste close to that of tomato-based dishes.

Consumer Experiences:

  • Many consumers like Aturamu and Duru have successfully integrated these alternatives into their cooking routines. They note that these substitutes not only help save costs but also maintain the quality and taste of their meals.
  • Social media platforms are abuzz with Nigerians sharing their experiences and recipes using these alternative ingredients. For instance, Sapphire Odufuwa shared her family’s new staple of cucumber sauce made with onions, tatashe, and yellow pepper, which has become a popular replacement for tomato sauce.

Industry Insight:

  • Experts attribute the price surge to the seasonality of tomatoes, which do not thrive during the rainy season. Sani Danladi, the national chairman of the Association of Tomato Growers, Processors, and Marketers Association of Nigeria, confirmed that prices are expected to decline once the dry season begins, as tomatoes grow better during that period.

In the meantime, Nigerians continue to adapt and innovate in their kitchens, finding cost-effective alternatives to cope with the high tomato prices while waiting for market conditions to improve.

Ebonyi Emerges as Nigeria’s Agricultural Hotspot.

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Ebonyi Emerges as Nigeria’s Agricultural Hotspot in First Census in 31 Years

In a landmark revelation, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has identified Ebonyi State as the leading hub of agricultural activities in Nigeria. This information comes from the recently published National Agricultural Sample Census (NASC) Report 2022, marking the first agricultural census conducted in the country in 31 years.

Key Findings from the NASC Report:

  1. Ebonyi’s Agricultural Dominance:
    • Ebonyi State has the highest concentration of agricultural households, with a staggering 99.5 percent of them engaged in crop cultivation.
    • This is a significant contrast to Lagos, where only 48 percent of households are involved in crop production.
  2. Crop and Livestock Production:
    • Nationwide, 91 percent of agricultural households are involved in crop production, with Benue State leading in groundnut cultivation at 81 percent.
    • The report highlights that 35 percent of agricultural households exclusively practice crop cultivation, while 48 percent are involved in raising different types of livestock.
    • Jigawa State has the highest percentage of households engaged in livestock production at 84.2 percent, followed by Bauchi at 79.7 percent.
  3. Poultry and Fisheries:
    • In terms of poultry farming, Benue tops the list with 65.2 percent of agricultural households involved, closely followed by Ebonyi at 63.3 percent.
    • Overall, 42.5 percent of agricultural households raise poultry, predominantly chickens, while five percent engage in fisheries.
  4. Popular Crops:
    • The most commonly cultivated crops across Nigeria are maize, guinea corn, and rice.
    • The primary root and tuber crops are cassava, yam, and cocoyam.
    • Beans and cowpeas are the main leguminous and vegetable crops, cultivated by 46 percent of crop-producing households.

Challenges in Agricultural Regions:

  • Despite the agricultural potential, regions like Benue, known as Nigeria’s food basket, face significant challenges. Increasing attacks and security issues have worsened the plight of farmers, threatening food production.
  • An SBM Intelligence report from April 2024 indicated over 690 deaths and 130 casualties in Benue over a span of thirteen months, highlighting the severe impact of violence on agricultural activities.

Government’s Response and Future Plans:

  • Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, praised the NASC report as a crucial development for Nigeria’s agricultural sector. He emphasized that the data provided would aid in informed policy decisions and strategic planning.
  • The census is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing the agricultural challenges and enhancing food security in the country.

Significance of the NASC Report:

  • This census, being the first since 1993, is a critical tool for understanding and improving Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. The insights gained will help policymakers and stakeholders address gaps and leverage opportunities for sustainable agricultural development.

Ebonyi’s emergence as a leading agricultural state underscores the importance of regional agricultural strengths and the need for targeted support to enhance productivity and food security in Nigeria. The NASC report provides a comprehensive overview that can shape the future of agriculture in the nation.

Shehu Sani Warns Tinubu: Avoid Buhari’s Mistakes.

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Shehu Sani Warns Tinubu: Avoid Buhari’s Mistake on Appointments.

Shehu Sani, a former Kaduna lawmaker, has issued a stern warning to President Bola Tinubu, advising him to avoid the mistakes made by his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, regarding government appointments. In an interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Sani emphasized the importance of prioritizing competence over nepotism if Tinubu aims to achieve effective governance.

Key Points from Shehu Sani’s Interview:

  1. Nepotism Under Buhari:
    • Sani criticized Buhari’s administration for rampant nepotism, where appointments were often made based on personal connections rather than merit.
    • He highlighted that many ministers and service chiefs were retained throughout Buhari’s eight-year tenure, despite their ineffectiveness in key areas such as security, economy, education, and healthcare.
    • Sani pointed out that the lack of cabinet reshuffles and the lengthy process of replacing ministers hindered progress.
  2. Impact on Governance:
    • According to Sani, the retention of underperforming officials and the failure to reshuffle the cabinet contributed to the administration’s inability to deliver results.
    • He noted that retaining service chiefs despite their failures led to the premature retirement of capable officers, damaging their careers and limiting the effectiveness of the military.
  3. Advice to Tinubu:
    • Sani urged Tinubu to learn from Buhari’s mistakes and focus on appointing competent individuals who can deliver results.
    • He stressed that the country’s progress depends on treating competency as the primary qualification for appointments.
  4. Northern Nigeria’s Underdevelopment:
    • Sani attributed the persistent underdevelopment in northern Nigeria to the failure of political leaders from the region.
    • He criticized these leaders for not using their political power to improve the conditions in the 19 northern states, leaving the region lagging behind in development.

Related Issues:

  • The warning from Sani comes at a time when Tinubu’s administration faces scrutiny over its ability to address Nigeria’s numerous challenges, including economic hardship and security concerns.
  • The call for competency-based appointments is part of a broader demand for good governance and accountability from the new administration.

Sani’s critique of Buhari’s administration serves as a reminder of the consequences of nepotism and ineffective governance. His advice to Tinubu underscores the need for a strategic approach in appointing officials who can contribute positively to Nigeria’s development.

Renewed Hope Cities’ 2000 More Homes Begin Journey

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Renewed Hope Cities’ 2000 More Homes Begin Journey to 1m Units

The Nigerian federal government’s Renewed Hope Cities and Estates initiative, aimed at providing affordable housing, has launched the construction of 2,000 housing units in eight states: Ebonyi, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Osun, Oyo, Benue, and Nasarawa. This development is part of a broader plan to address Nigeria’s significant housing deficit by delivering one million housing units nationwide.

Key Details of the Initiative:

  • States Involved: Each of the eight states will receive 250 housing units.
  • Types of Housing Units: The 250 units in each state will comprise:
    • 50 one-bedroom semi-detached bungalows.
    • 100 two-bedroom semi-detached bungalows.
    • 50 three-bedroom semi-detached bungalows.

Employment Opportunities:

  • Workforce Impact: The construction of these units is expected to employ around 50,000 skilled and unskilled workers, averaging 25 workers per unit.

Current and Future Plans:

  • Ministerial Oversight: Ahmed Dangiwa, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, will oversee the construction, which is set to begin in late June to early July.
  • Previous Projects: This launch follows the construction of 1,500 units in five northern states: Katsina, Yobe, Gombe, Sokoto, and Kano.
  • Overall Targets: The initiative aims to complete 6,612 housing units by the end of 2024. This includes 3,112 units in Abuja and the additional 2,000 units currently being launched.

Funding and Financing:

  • Current Funding: The initial projects, including the additional 2,000 units, are financed by the 2023 supplementary budget of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.
  • Future Funding: Subsequent phases will be financed through the ministry’s 2024 budget.

Inclusivity and Integration:

  • Affordability: The program seeks to promote inclusivity by offering a range of affordable homeownership options, including:
    • Single-digit interest rate mortgage loans with up to 30-year terms from the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN).
    • Rent-to-own options, allowing beneficiaries to pay in monthly, quarterly, or annual instalments.
    • Outright purchase options for high-income earners.
  • Cross-Subsidy Initiative: 80 percent of the housing units will be sold at commercial rates, while 20 percent will be offered at concessional rates to low- and medium-income Nigerians, particularly those affiliated with the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress.

Long-Term Vision:

  • Phase Execution: The first phase began with the launch of 3,112 housing units in Abuja’s Karsana District. The project will be executed in batches to eventually cover all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, aiming to deliver 1,000 units per state and 4,000 units in the FCT.

The Renewed Hope Cities and Estates initiative represents a significant effort to mitigate Nigeria’s housing crisis, providing affordable and inclusive housing solutions while boosting employment and promoting economic development.

Eight Idle Oil Fields Offer Lifeline to Sinking Petrodollars

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Eight Idle Oil Fields Offer Lifeline to Sinking Petrodollars.

Nigeria’s energy sector faces significant challenges, with eight idle oil fields potentially offering a much-needed boost of 900,000 barrels per day (bpd) to the country’s oil output. This increase could provide crucial support for Nigeria’s declining oil revenue, which funds the national budget but has been hit by a sharp decline in investments.

Overview of Nigeria’s Oil Reserves:

  • Crude Oil Reserves: 36 billion barrels.
  • Proven Gas Reserves: 206 trillion cubic feet.

Despite these substantial reserves, the country struggles to meet its target of increasing oil reserves to 40 billion barrels, primarily due to idle projects.

Key Idle Projects:

  1. Zabazaba: 150,000 bpd.
  2. Shell Bonga South West: 225,000 bpd.
  3. Bonga North Project: 100,000 bpd.
  4. Chevron Nsiko Project: 100,000 bpd.
  5. ExxonMobil’s Bosi: 140,000 bpd.
  6. Satellite Field Development Phase: 80,000 bpd.
  7. Ude: 110,000 bpd.

Challenges and Expert Opinions:

  • Investment Decline: The passage of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) has not yet yielded the expected increase in investments due to poor implementation and bureaucratic inefficiencies.
  • Corruption and Bureaucracy: Industry experts highlight ongoing issues with bribery and delays in obtaining licenses and approvals. Austin Avuru, executive chairman and founder of AA Holdings Limited, emphasized the need for $25 billion in annual investments over the next decade to stabilize production at 2 million bpd.

Case Studies of Idle Fields:

  1. Zabazaba Field:
    • Location: Offshore Niger Delta, OPL 245.
    • Operators: Nigerian Agip Exploration (NAE) and Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCO).
    • Challenges: Operations halted due to legal disputes and trials over the $1.1 billion acquisition by Shell and Eni, who were later acquitted of corruption charges. The field holds recoverable reserves of 560 million barrels.
  2. Shell Bonga South West:
    • Capacity: 225,000 bpd of crude oil and 150 million standard cubic feet of gas per day.
    • Investment Opportunity: Shell Group committed $5 billion for Bonga North project development.
    • Development: Expected to start production in 2026, peaking at 146,765 bpd in 2027.
  3. Bonga North Project:
    • Location: OML 118 (OPL 212P), discovered in 2005.
    • Capacity: 100,000 bpd.
  4. Chevron Nsiko Project:
    • Location: OML 140, western Niger Delta.
    • Capacity: 100,000 bpd.
  5. ExxonMobil’s Bosi:
    • Discovery: 1996.
    • Capacity: 140,000 bpd.
    • Development Delays: Slower than expected progress.

Current Situation and Recommendations:

  • NNPC’s Role: The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) has faced criticism for operational inefficiencies and failing to maximize output from its assets. NNPC operates several fields, including Okono/Okpoho in OML 119, which has been stuck at 10,000 bpd due to facility constraints despite potential for 30,000 bpd.
  • Investor Confidence: Transparency and accountability are critical to attracting investments. The old system’s opacity has hindered the expected boost in investor confidence post-PIA.

Conclusion:

Optimizing these idle oil fields requires disciplined planning, economic reforms, and consistent government policies. Restoring investor confidence through transparency and efficient operations is crucial. The NNPC must focus on improving technical efficiency and delivering more crude oil to terminals to support Nigeria’s economy and stabilize the value of the naira.

Nigeria’s Worsening Food Crisis as Costs Triple

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Nigeria’s Worsening Food Crisis as Costs Triple

Nigerians face a severe food crisis in the second half of the year due to skyrocketing input costs, worsening insecurity, and climate change impacts.

Rising Costs of Inputs:

  • The price of a 50kg NPK fertilizer has surged by 49% in one year to an average of N53,000, primarily due to the exchange rate crisis. This fertilizer, essential for smallholder farmers, relies on imported raw materials like potash, phosphate, and granular ammonium.
  • Urea fertilizer, though produced with local materials, saw its price rise by 117%, from N17,500 in 2023 to N38,000 in 2024.
  • Agrochemicals, such as herbicides like Glyview, have tripled in price from N7,500 to over N23,000.

Impact of Insecurity and Climate Change:

  • Security issues in key agricultural areas like Benue, Kaduna, and Plateau have driven farmers away from their lands, severely affecting crop and fish farming.
  • Climate change exacerbates the situation, with floods expected to hit 31 states and 148 local governments, according to the 2024 Annual Flood Outlook.

Challenges in Farming:

  • Farmers face increased costs in cultivating land, leading to reduced production areas and higher food prices.
  • The rainy season is expected to worsen the situation, driving food prices higher in the third quarter of 2024.

Government Response and Criticisms:

  • In July 2023, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency on food security, promising immediate and long-term plans to address the crisis. However, average food prices have continued to rise, with food inflation hitting 40.6% in May 2024.
  • The government’s plans have been criticized for not adequately addressing the main issues, such as insecurity and comprehensive sector development, including livestock, forestry, and fishing.
  • Critics also highlight the lack of investment in agricultural research and nutrition, despite Nigeria having the highest burden of malnutrition in Africa and the second highest globally.

Call for Action:

  • Experts urge the government to restore security to allow farmers to return to their lands.
  • More resources should be allocated to finance agricultural projects and develop a more holistic approach to tackling the food crisis.

Conclusion:

Nigeria’s food crisis is deepening as input costs soar, insecurity disrupts farming, and climate change brings more challenges. The government’s response has so far been inadequate, and urgent, bold actions are needed to mitigate the impending food shortage and rising hunger levels.

 

How Nigeria Can Attract Over $100 Billion

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How Nigeria Can Attract Over $100 Billion Yearly in Remittances Like India

In 2023, Indians in the diaspora sent a record $120 billion back home, nearly double the combined total of foreign investments in India. The World Bank projects this trend will continue, with remittances growing by 3.7% in 2024 and 4% in 2025. In comparison, Nigeria receives between $20 billion and $25 billion annually in remittances. Despite having a population seven times smaller than India’s, Nigeria can learn from India’s success to boost its remittance inflows.

Key Strategies for Nigeria:

  1. Investment in Education and Skills Development:
    • High-Demand Skills: Focus on sectors like medical, ICT, and entertainment, where there is a high global demand.
    • Broad Skill Spectrum: Train citizens in technical and vocational skills such as plumbing, driving, and caregiving, similar to the Philippines’ approach.
  2. Human Capital Development:
    • Improve the quality of education to make Nigerian graduates more competitive globally.
    • Invest significantly in human capital to enhance skill sets and increase employability abroad.
  3. Outsourcing Programs:
    • Adopt and adapt successful outsourcing models from India to create job opportunities and increase remittance inflows.
  4. Ease of Sending Money:
    • Implement favorable foreign exchange policies to facilitate the transfer of remittances.

Challenges and Considerations

  • Population Size: India’s larger population contributes to its higher remittance figures. However, quality over quantity in skill development can help bridge this gap.
  • Accurate Data: Estimates of the Nigerian diaspora range widely. Accurate data collection is crucial for targeted policy-making.
  • Economic Activity: The type and extent of economic activities that the diaspora engages in significantly impact remittance amounts.

Conclusion

By investing in education, broadening the spectrum of skills training, and improving the ease of remittance transfers, Nigeria can enhance its remittance inflows and emulate India’s success. This requires a concerted effort from both the government and private sectors to develop a skilled workforce that meets global demands.

Vinicius Junior Criticizes Copa America Organizers.

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Vinicius Junior Criticizes Copa America Organizers Despite Brazil’s Win Over Paraguay”

Brazil and Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior has voiced his frustration with CONMEBOL following Brazil’s 4-1 victory over Paraguay in the Copa America group stage. Despite an impressive performance that saw him score twice, Vinicius was critical of the organization for what he perceives as a lack of attention to players’ welfare.

In the match held in Las Vegas, Vinicius was the standout performer, helping Brazil inch closer to a spot in the quarterfinals. Lucas Paqueta and Savinho also contributed to the scoreline, securing a dominant win over Paraguay, who remain winless in Group D.

However, Vinicius’s post-match comments highlighted his dissatisfaction with the conditions at the tournament. “The Copa America is always tricky due to the pitches, the referees, and the way CONMEBOL treats us. It’s always really difficult,” he said in an on-field interview. He added, “We have to keep working because we can only talk about it when we win. Whenever we speak up, CONMEBOL tells us we’re talking too much. That’s the truth.”

Despite the challenges, Brazil is well-positioned to advance from their group. Currently second in Group D, they will top the section if they secure a victory against Colombia in their final group-stage match.

Vinicius’s comments have sparked a conversation about player treatment and conditions at major tournaments, emphasizing the need for better standards and respect for athletes’ well-being.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Brazil to see if they can maintain their strong form and overcome any obstacles both on and off the pitch.

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Jamal Musiala’s Masterclass Leads Germany to EURO 2024

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Jamal Musiala’s Masterclass Leads Germany to EURO 2024 Quarterfinals as Denmark Crashes Out”

Germany secured their spot in the EURO 2024 quarterfinals with a 2-0 victory over Denmark, thanks to a stellar performance from Jamal Musiala. The match, held at the iconic Signal Iduna Park, saw the hosts dominate from start to finish.

In the early stages, Germany looked to have taken the lead when Nico Schlotterbeck headed in a cross from Toni Kroos. However, the goal was disallowed due to a foul in the build-up. Undeterred, Germany continued to press, with Denmark’s goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel making a series of crucial saves to deny Joshua Kimmich, Schlotterbeck, Kai Havertz, and Robert Andrich.

The breakthrough came in the 53rd minute when Kai Havertz found the back of the net, putting Germany ahead. Jamal Musiala then doubled the lead in the 68th minute with a brilliant individual effort, sealing the win for the hosts.

Despite Denmark’s best efforts, they were unable to break through the German defense and ultimately crashed out of the tournament. Referee Michael Oliver oversaw the match, ensuring fair play throughout.

Germany, led by Julian Nagelsmann, now looks ahead to the quarterfinals, where they hope to continue their impressive run on home soil.

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