tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85184645597426158122024-03-18T04:03:36.463+01:00Sola Ogundeko's BlogNewsnow in Nigeria on politics, education, sports, entertainment, and lots more...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.comBlogger2366125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-29303371951280485372014-05-24T07:36:00.000+01:002014-04-17T08:00:29.846+01:00UTME Past Questions now available online (in CBT format) - Earn N10,000 by referring candidates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlNXwZ68kEUJiXG-8I7b4Qir-sfWMwPN6C4gGXIvUSZyuNtTeSEPf5ifMBJWvW5Jiuh8Oq3Sc6Pec-OdqhuEFYNdZ-7MwtxVX0krUXdHUuO4xlswaqdu7Gi7Hwe_sy2dlByMsp7Z-YY8m/s1600/GRE+image.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlNXwZ68kEUJiXG-8I7b4Qir-sfWMwPN6C4gGXIvUSZyuNtTeSEPf5ifMBJWvW5Jiuh8Oq3Sc6Pec-OdqhuEFYNdZ-7MwtxVX0krUXdHUuO4xlswaqdu7Gi7Hwe_sy2dlByMsp7Z-YY8m/s1600/GRE+image.JPG" height="320" width="238" /></a></div>
ASSURE Educational Service, an indigenous educational company in Nigeria, with special affinity for online based teaching and learning has come up with a new innovation to assist prospective JAMB (Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board) candidates access and attempt UTME (Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination) Past Questions online.<br />
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Candidates will have unlimited access to all the questions posted on the online server and students can as well attempt the questions as many times as possible to ascertain their reediness for the yearly examination.<br />
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According to the Tests Administrator of ASSURE Educational Services, Mr. Sola Ogundeko, more past questions are being uploaded to the server daily for candidates to have access to more questions. Candidates will see their scores immediate the <b>Finish Quiz</b> button is clicked and can view their performance in each of the questions answered by clicking on the <b>View Questions</b> button at the end of the quiz as show below:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBMED_HHIqGclmGDr3mA-ilSVHov_hyphenhyphenFQlJNwaOtxpF9NO1f6IP8pSzqsWtJEsdRNzpLyvH43DFXLQW0wa3-RokuCRqib5RjG52XeuTp_-mT6mBRGpkQ4WErO-OfdXOBnGdgY9YjSQUF2v/s1600/ScreenShot010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBMED_HHIqGclmGDr3mA-ilSVHov_hyphenhyphenFQlJNwaOtxpF9NO1f6IP8pSzqsWtJEsdRNzpLyvH43DFXLQW0wa3-RokuCRqib5RjG52XeuTp_-mT6mBRGpkQ4WErO-OfdXOBnGdgY9YjSQUF2v/s1600/ScreenShot010.jpg" height="518" width="640" /></a></div>
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In the review mode, questions answered correctly by the candidate appears in GREEN, while wrong answers will have appears in RED, and the correct answer appears in GREEN as shown below:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5I8yBR-DqTlpYeYO2WHXdZf3WN5cyKQOzdChyLxoYESXoQj0gY_uZbhU_0KRYJAjmZRuv7Nyhh9a2EnENmEaArt7lXns2etHrlgcTEHXsAouZQ4-JBGZ-uavoo4BxsEdmn842GlaMY70-/s1600/ScreenShot011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5I8yBR-DqTlpYeYO2WHXdZf3WN5cyKQOzdChyLxoYESXoQj0gY_uZbhU_0KRYJAjmZRuv7Nyhh9a2EnENmEaArt7lXns2etHrlgcTEHXsAouZQ4-JBGZ-uavoo4BxsEdmn842GlaMY70-/s1600/ScreenShot011.jpg" height="380" width="640" /></a></div>
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This according to Mr. Sola Ogundeko, will help prospective candidates to identify their areas of strengths and weaknesses and where to concentrates to aim higher scores in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME)</div>
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A one-time access fee of N1,000 (One Thousand Naira) will be required for candidate to access the online UTME past questions. The fee expires in 30 days.</div>
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According to the Tests Administrator, candidate should follow the instructions (steps) listed below:</div>
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<li>Pay the access fee of N1,000 to any Guaranty Trust Bank, Account Name: ASSURE Educational Services, Account Number: 0149891487</li>
<li>Visit <a href="http://www.utme.assure.com.ng/">www.utme.assure.com.ng</a> and click on the <a href="http://utme.assure.com.ng/register-here/" target="_blank">Register Here link</a> on the menu bar to fill the online registration form.</li>
<li>Candidate will receive their login details (i.e. username and password) within 24 hours, and can have unlimited access to all the past questions posted on the website for 30 days.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFJVYKXOTSWgQ0Pc4Cnd30wbeLue7XAzjh_Wj6Y_exApYdBBrnidXU4r9TelPljrDuzU3JyBrT6rNeHNycLZZo1czx_BmguhRiHCzQdaGuZAxgaVUHsvIW0klickJGg2KJd9CfGpNhyutw/s1600/ASSURE+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFJVYKXOTSWgQ0Pc4Cnd30wbeLue7XAzjh_Wj6Y_exApYdBBrnidXU4r9TelPljrDuzU3JyBrT6rNeHNycLZZo1czx_BmguhRiHCzQdaGuZAxgaVUHsvIW0klickJGg2KJd9CfGpNhyutw/s1600/ASSURE+7.jpg" height="120" width="320" /></a></div>
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ASSURE Educational Services is calling on interested individuals or company who wish to participate in her Referrer Program and make money by referring candidates to <a href="http://www.utme.assure.com.ng/">www.utme.assure.com.ng</a>. A referrer earns 10% of the access fee paid by each candidate he/she referred to the website. Visit our <b><a href="http://utme.assure.com.ng/referrer-program/" target="_blank">Referrer Page</a></b> to read more and apply if interested.<br />
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<b>For enquiries, contact</b></div>
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<b>The Tests Administrator,<br />ASSURE Educational Services<br />07063397940, 08050701465</b></div>
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<b>admin@utme.assure.com.ng</b></div>
<br />
<a href="http://utme.assure.com.ng//"> Access and attempt UTME Past Questions Online in CBT format</a><br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-37717315354269691522014-05-23T06:14:00.000+01:002014-05-23T06:14:06.634+01:00UPDATES: #BringBackOurGirls Aso Rock protest march – (and Pictures from the rally)<img height="" src="http://media.premiumtimesng.com/wp-content/files/2014/05/BBOG-aso-rock-1-e1400768249113-473x300.jpg" width="" /><br />
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<div id="liveblog-entry-161314" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 0px; opacity: 1; position: relative;">
<strong>18.06</strong><br />
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<a href="http://media.premiumtimesng.com/wp-content/files/2014/05/BBOG-aso-rock-govt-team-e1400778358474.jpg"><img alt="Team of Government Officials met the protesters half-way" class="size-medium wp-image-161316" height="292" src="http://media.premiumtimesng.com/wp-content/files/2014/05/BBOG-aso-rock-govt-team-e1400778333698-465x292.jpg" width="465" /></a><div class="wp-caption-text">
Team of Government Officials met the protesters half-way</div>
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<div id="liveblog-entry-161312">
<strong>17.56</strong><br />
Unable
to access Aso Rock, protesters plead for another opportunity to engage
the president saying they were not satisfied with the response they got
from government officials that came to meet them half way.<br />
“We went out of our way that we must have this meeting with Mr.
President. And the answers we have received is inadequate,” Oby
Ezekwesili said.<br />
“Please let Mr. President know that the answers we received is not
enough. Tell him also that he also missed a colossal opportunity to
address his citizens on a crucial issue.<br />
“Our proposal is: that we will demand of Mr. President another
opportunity of addressing the issues that the citizens have put before
him as the commander-in -chief.<br />
“We also want the delegates to tell the president that we hold the office of the president in very high esteem,” she said.<br />
</div>
<div id="liveblog-entry-161311">
<strong>17.46</strong><br />
The
protest ends in Eagle Square, two kilometres away from the intended Aso
Rock destination. Protesters disperse, others return to Unity Fountain
singing solidarity songs.<br />
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<div id="liveblog-entry-161298">
<strong>17.22</strong><br />
The questions protesters want government officials to answer include:<br />
Why has the president not visited Chibok?<br />
Where were the security operatives when Chibok was attacked for four
hours even though there was a state of emergency and many more?<br />
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<div id="liveblog-entry-161295">
<strong>17.17</strong><br />
Protesters
are still at the Eagles Square, about two kilometres away from Aso
Rock. They read their demands, in turns, to the government
representatives that met them. It appears the protest will terminate at
this point, but the organizers are not saying anything yet.<br />
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<div id="liveblog-entry-161293">
<strong>17.00</strong><br />
The
Police Commissioner in Abuja, Joseph Mbu, who had earlier threatened to
stop the protest has been very cooperative with the protesters. In
Eagle Square, he told protesters sitting on the floor that he was
supporting them, though in uniform.<br />
Mr. Mbu also ordered his orderly to get cold water for the women.<br />
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<div id="liveblog-entry-161290">
<strong>16.29</strong><br />
At
the Eagle Square, close to the presidential villa entrance, the
protesters are met by a team of government officials including the
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Bala Mohammed, Secretary to
the Government of the Federation, Pius Anyim, Special Adviser to the
President on Media and Publicity, Reuben Abati, and others.<br />
The protesters’ initial destination – the presidential villa – is still about two kilometres away.<br />
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<div id="liveblog-entry-161289">
<strong>16.24</strong><br />
This is how the protesters will introduce themselves when they eventually get to Aso Rock.<br />
Who are we?<br />
Crowd: Chibok family<br />
What are we demanding?<br />
Crowd : #BringBackOurGirls Now and Alive<br />
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<div id="liveblog-entry-161285">
<strong>16.22</strong><br />
Police
officers barricade the road leading into Aso Rock, as expected. But
Assistant Inspector General Suleiman Abba told reporters the protester
have been cleared to march into Aso Rock.<br />
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<div id="liveblog-entry-161284">
<strong>16.16</strong><br />
There
is another stop at the Eagle Square area. Oby Ezekwesili briefs the
crowd on purpose of the protest and need for discipline once more.<br />
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<div id="liveblog-entry-161283">
<strong>16.03</strong><br />
The
protesters have just been informed by the police that link roads have
been blocked to enable unhindered thoroughfare for the protest. With a
presidential permission granted for the protest, the police is in full
cooperation with the protesters.<br />
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<div id="liveblog-entry-161280">
<strong>15.51</strong><br />
The
protesters have moved about 150 meters away from starting point. The
march is halted as Oby Ezekwesili addresses the crowd on purpose and
discipline.<br />
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<div id="liveblog-entry-161279">
<strong>15.47</strong><br />
The
protest takes its first step away from the Unity Fountain starting
point. Protesters are still in lines but organizers are working hard to
keep it that way.<br />
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<div id="liveblog-entry-161278">
<strong>15.44</strong><br />
“We
are going to be a model of a discipline, nobody will talk to the
president rudely. Our questions are simple and straight. If anyone
wearing the reflectors say to you, you are out of line, please get back
to the line,” Oby Ezekwesili tells the crowd as she continues to ensure
discipline.<br />
</div>
<div id="liveblog-entry-161277">
<strong>15.42</strong><br />
Oby
Ezekwesili has just announced to the crowd that the president is ready
to listen to the protesters. The crowd is seemingly impressed by that
announcement as they instantly began to cheer.<br />
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<div id="liveblog-entry-161274">
<strong>15.32</strong><br />
Just
before the protest starts proper, Oby Ezekwesili warns the protesters:
“Please do not come here and chant your war song, we will only use our
solidarity chant; #BringBackOurGirls ‘Now and Alive’.”<br />
Mrs Ezekwesili is trying hard to ensure protesters disciplined.
“Anybody who does not respect rules belong to the old Nigeria; please
respect all the rules,” she pleads. <br />
</div>
<div id="liveblog-entry-161273">
<strong>15.30</strong><br />
The march organizes as it gets set for kickoff. <br />
</div>
<div id="liveblog-entry-161272">
<strong>15.27</strong><br />
</div>
<div id="liveblog-entry-161271">
<strong>15.26</strong><br />
Follow <a href="http://instagram.com/premiumtimes" target="_blank">Premium Times on Instagram</a> for real live images from the protest.<br />
</div>
<div id="liveblog-entry-161270">
<strong>15.24</strong><br />
Organizers
are still distributing protest T-shirts to the crowd. In between, Oby
Ezekwesili would chant, “show your neighbour your touch of red”.<br />
</div>
<div id="liveblog-entry-161269">
<strong>15.23</strong><br />
The crowd is asked to queue in seven rows as Oby Ezekwesili reads out the rules for the protest march.<br />
1: Be on a single line and maintain your line.<br />
2. Make sure you have a touch of red, if you do not have one a red T-shirt will be given to you soon.<br />
3. Look at your neighbours and report any suspicious person or item.<br />
5. Do not carry any thing that will inconvenience you.<br />
6. Do not carry any kind of metal that can be seen as a weapon.<br />
</div>
<div id="liveblog-entry-161268">
<strong>15.21</strong><br />
There
are close to one thousand people gather at the Unity Fountain starting
point of the protest. Oby Ezekwesili, one of the leaders of the protest,
has addressed the protesters while others distribute red T-shirts for
the campaign.<br />
The march is yet to move towards its destination.
</div>
</div>
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ANNOUNCEMENT:
1. Access and attempt UTME Past Questions Online in CBT format - Earn up to N10,000 when you refer 50 candidates to our portal - visit www.utme.assure.com.ng
2. Download unlimited e-books in various disciplines for FREE! Visit www.gablibrary.com.ng
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Posted by Sola Ogundeko - https://www.facebook.com/solaogundeko
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-59238550098128343362014-05-19T19:00:00.000+01:002014-05-19T19:00:01.560+01:00Ryan Giggs announces his retirement<br />
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<img alt="Giggs" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-118838" height="194" src="http://cdn.dailypost.ng/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Giggs-300x194.jpg" width="300" /> </div>
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Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs, has announced that his playing days have come to an end and he will now become assistant to new manager, Louis van Gaal.<br /><br />Giggs, 40, is the most decorated player in United’s history and made 963 appearances for the Red Devils – the most by any player for a single club. From March 1991 when he made his debut at 17, the Welshman has won 34 trophies, including 13 Premier League titles and two Champions League trophies.<br /><br />He was appointed as interim manager after David Moyes was sacked in April and played his final game in the 3-1 win over Hull City.<br /><br />“Today is a fantastic day for Manchester United,” Giggs wrote in an open letter to the fans. “Louis van Gaal is a great appointment and let me begin by telling you how delighted I am to be working with someone of his calibre. His credentials are second to none and I’m positive the club will thrive under his leadership over the coming years.<br /><br />“I would also like to take this opportunity to announce my retirement from professional football and embark upon a new and exciting chapter in my life, as assistant manager of Manchester United. I am immensely proud, honoured and fortunate to have represented the biggest club in the world 963 times and Wales 64 times.<br /><br />“My dream was always to play for Manchester United, and although it saddens me to know I won’t be pulling on a United jersey again as a player, I have been lucky enough to have fulfilled that dream playing with some of the best players in the world, working under an incredible manager in Sir Alex Ferguson, and most of all, playing for the greatest fans in world football. I have always felt and appreciated your support.<br /><br />“I want to also give a huge thanks to the backroom staff and support teams we have and have had at Manchester United over the years. I would not have achieved the success I have without your continuing dedication and commitment to creating the best environment to enable the players to thrive. I would not have won 34 trophies in my career without you. I would also like to say a special thanks to my friends and family for all your love and support.<br /><br />“For me, today is a new chapter filled with many emotions – immense pride, sadness, but most of all, excitement towards the future. United fans I hope will share and echo my belief that the club, the management and owners, are doing everything they can to return this great club to where it belongs, and I hope to be there every step of the way. To the greatest fans in world football, thank you, I have loved every minute of playing for you and representing the biggest and best club in the world.” <br />
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ANNOUNCEMENT:
1. Access and attempt UTME Past Questions Online in CBT format - Earn up to N10,000 when you refer 50 candidates to our portal - visit www.utme.assure.com.ng
2. Download unlimited e-books in various disciplines for FREE! Visit www.gablibrary.com.ng
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Posted by Sola Ogundeko - https://www.facebook.com/solaogundeko
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-50524878878784969342014-05-19T18:00:00.000+01:002014-05-19T18:00:02.533+01:00Nigeria Government Confirms New Boko Haram Threats to Schools<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU1efAWuzPdjxLnZ2wGF9kRMPQMIfluvfMVVokvIcz5QNYqCy2NnZNcZvtymRkWqNYZcwvJwh3fFm5H8hDaVuVOpvT_b_hhAyXWEz0hMhuwM-2QYjzMX18_qVoMdGChtOJM_Dhq0kZZWwN/s1600/President+Goodluck+Jonathan%2527s+Official+Potrait.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU1efAWuzPdjxLnZ2wGF9kRMPQMIfluvfMVVokvIcz5QNYqCy2NnZNcZvtymRkWqNYZcwvJwh3fFm5H8hDaVuVOpvT_b_hhAyXWEz0hMhuwM-2QYjzMX18_qVoMdGChtOJM_Dhq0kZZWwN/s1600/President+Goodluck+Jonathan%2527s+Official+Potrait.jpg" height="320" width="225" /></a></div>
PRESS BRIEFING BY MR. MIKE OMERI, CORDINATOR, NCIMC AT THE NATIONAL BRIEFING CENTRE, ABUJA ON MONDAY MAY 19, 2014.<br /><br />1. President’s Visit to Paris, France<br /><br />The visit of the President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan (GCFR) to Paris, France last week for an international coalition against Boko Haram is part of the effort of the government to stem the tide of insecurity in the country. By this action, the threat of Boko Haram is not just a Nigerian problem, but a regional challenge. Accordingly, Mr President reiterates his commitment to providing total security for all Nigerians.<br /><br />2. Bomb Blast in Kano on Sunday May 18, 2014.<br /><br />We can confirm to you the reported bomb blast in Kano, although no one has claimed responsibility. Another attempted attack was foiled this morning by members of the security forces also in Kano. This underscores the heinous nature of the activities of Boko Haram for which the government has continually advised Nigerians to be security conscious of their environment.<br /><br />3. Visits to Chibok by Media Organisations and Other Persons<br /><br />While the Centre appreciates the effort of the media at adequately informing and educating the world on the current security problems in the country, we wish to inform all media organizations that the security situation around Chibok is still fluid. Presently, the affected location is an active crime scene and a military operational area.<br /><br />Therefore, much as the Centre does not intend to restrict the activities of the media in the performance of their duty, it is strongly advised that media organizations must not take steps that will jeopardize the safety of their staff or compromise the crime scene. Any media organization wishing to visit Chibok should approach the appropriate authorities for guidance and advice, in the interest of their safety.<br /><br />4. New Boko Haram Threats to Schools<br /><br />This report has been confirmed in Benue State, but there are grounds to suspect that the reported threats issued by Boko Hram to Schools in Makurdi must be the handiwork of mischief makers. However, the security authorities have been alerted and the necessary personnel deployed to the appropriate locations within the metropolis.<br />
<br />
ANNOUNCEMENT:
1. Access and attempt UTME Past Questions Online in CBT format - Earn up to N10,000 when you refer 50 candidates to our portal - visit www.utme.assure.com.ng
2. Download unlimited e-books in various disciplines for FREE! Visit www.gablibrary.com.ng
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Posted by Sola Ogundeko - https://www.facebook.com/solaogundeko
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-19657351235678171252014-05-19T17:29:00.000+01:002014-05-19T17:29:02.076+01:00Official: Manchester United appoint Van Gaal<img alt="United appoint Van Gaal" class="landscape" height="366" src="http://www.fifa.com/mm//Photo/Tournament/Competition/02/33/81/78/2338178_FULL-LND.jpg" width="652" /><br />
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Louis van Gaal vowed to "make history" after being confirmed as Manchester United's new manager on a big news day at Old Trafford. Van Gaal's long-awaited appointment was confirmed alongside that of Ryan Giggs as his assistant, with the Welshman ending his glittering playing career as a result.<br /><br />Van Gaal has signed a three-year deal and will take up his post when his duties as the Netherlands coach end after this summer's FIFA World Cup™. But although the tournament in Brazil will now command Van Gaal's immediate intention, the 62-year-old has already spoken of his determination to make an impact at United.<br /><br />Van Gaal said: "It was always a wish for me to work in the Premier League. To work as a manager for Manchester United, the biggest club in the world, makes me very proud. I have managed in games at Old Trafford before and know what an incredible arena Old Trafford is and how passionate and knowledgeable the fans are. This club has big ambitions. I too have big ambitions. Together I'm sure we will make history."<br /><br />United immediately identified former Ajax, Barcelona, AZ Alkmaar and Bayern Munich coach Van Gaal as a top target after David Moyes was sacked in April. His vast experience of both winning trophies and handling top-level players, combined with his availability, made him an ideal candidate.<br /><br />Negotiations took time due to his commitments with Holland but, having voiced his desire to manage in England and spoken of his high regard for United, an appointment always seemed likely. The Dutchman, previously linked with Tottenham Hotspur, boasts a rich coaching pedigree having won league titles with each of his clubs as well as the UEFA Champions League with Ajax. He is also now in his second spell as the Netherlands manager.<br /><br />United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward said: "In Louis van Gaal, we have secured the services of one of the outstanding managers in the game today. He has achieved many things in his career to date and Old Trafford provides him with a fitting stage on which to write new chapters in the Manchester United story.<br />This club has big ambitions. I too have big ambitions. Together I'm sure we will make history.<br />Louis van Gaal on taking over as Manchester United manager<br /><br />"Everyone is very excited about this new phase in the club's history. His track record of success in winning leagues and cups across Europe throughout his career makes him the perfect choice for us. People know him as a larger than life character but I have also been extremely impressed by his intelligence, thoughtful approach to the role and his diligence. I'm looking forward to working with him."<br /><br />United will hope the appointment can lift the club after a relatively poor 2013/14 season in which they finished seventh in the English Premier League - their lowest position since 1990 - and failed to qualify for the Champions League. The elevation of Giggs from his previous role as player-coach is also likely to prove popular.<br /><br /><b>Experienced Giggs ready for coaching role</b><br />
<br />The 40-year-old's future was thought to have been a key part of discussions with Van Gaal as the club were keen to retain his services in a coaching capacity. Giggs, who retires as a player after an illustrious career which began in 1991, stepped in as interim manager for the final four games of last season following Moyes' exit.<br /><br />Giggs, who made 963 United appearances and won 13 Premier League titles, said: "I am thrilled to have the chance to serve as assistant manager. Louis van Gaal is a world-class coach and I know I will learn a lot about coaching from being able to observe and contribute at such close quarters. Manchester United has been a huge part of my life and I'm delighted to be able to continue that relationship in such a key role."<br /><br />In addition to Giggs, Netherlands goalkeeping coach Frans Hoek and coach Marcel Bout, a specialist in opposition scouting, will join the backroom staff. As yet there has been no announcement from United concerning the future of Moyes' former assistants Phil Neville and Chris Woods.<br /><br />With Van Gaal now due to travel to Portugal for a training camp with Holland, he is unlikely to be presented by United at a news conference until after the World Cup. When he arrives he is thought likely to make a number of changes to the squad.<br /><br />Some will be necessary anyway, notably in defence, following the departures of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic. Club owners Joel and Avie Glazer are convinced Van Gaal is the right man for the job.<br /><br />Joel Glazer said: "He has an outstanding pedigree as a coach, both as a man who motivates his teams to win trophies and as someone who believes in giving young players a chance to prove their worth. I am sure he will make a big impression on the club, the players and the fans."<br /><br />Avie Glazer said: "Louis joins us at an exciting time and has already communicated some great ideas for how the club can move forward. The board is right behind him in his plans and everyone here is already looking forward to the start of next season." <br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-41770865074520694792014-05-19T17:17:00.000+01:002014-05-19T17:17:10.962+01:00Photos of Explosives-Rigged Mitsubishi Car Targeted At Kano<img alt="" class="imagefield imagefield-field_page_image imagecache-news-page-images-480-wide imagecache-news-page-images-480-wide_ife" height="335" src="http://saharareporters.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/news-page-images-480-wide/page_images/news/2014/Kano%201_1.jpg" title="" width="480" /><br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-54887049736511684472014-05-18T21:00:00.000+01:002014-05-18T21:00:02.630+01:00My son was murdered — Falode<br />
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Broadcaster Aisha Falode, tells ARUKAINO UMUKORO that her 19-year-old son, Toba, who died in Dubai on February 15, was murdered<br /><br />Seven months ago, in October last year, when 19-year-old Toba Falode left Nigeria for Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, his mother, Aisha Falode had high hopes for him.<br /><br />Toba was admitted to study Audio Production at the SAE Institute, Dubai. Fondly known as “Tyler Hendrix Fray,” he is described by friends as a young, talented and inspirational musician, who was a gift to his family and friends.<br /><br />Sadly, on February 15, that gift was snatched away from a family and his mother’s embrace by the cold hands of death in faraway Dubai. The official cause of death reportedly stated that Toba died as a result of ‘a fall from a great height and the impact from the fall.’<br /><br />Until his death, Toba lived on the 17th floor (Apartment 1703) in Manchester Towers, Dubai Marina, Dubai.<br /><br />But after a searching trip to Dubai in April, a mother’s grief was aggravated by new findings that her son might have been murdered. Falode and her lawyers from the Festus Keyamo chambers have disputed the official cause of death.<br /><br />In an interview with our correspondent, Falode said the police in Dubai, an emirate in the United Arab Emirates, were trying to protect her son’s killers.<br /><br />She said, “Where they found my son’s body was too far away from the building for somebody that fell by himself. It was about 18 to 20 metres from the building. The police (in Dubai) have not done a proper investigation on my son’s death because they said everybody in the apartment gave the same account of what happened, which was that my son was alone on the balcony and he sat on the railing and was swinging back and forth when he fell. The police did not tell us the whole truth and were trying to cover up for one of his friends who is Saudi.”<br /><br />According to Falode, some of Toba’s friends (names withheld) were also present in the apartment when the incident happened. The grieving mother said she had gathered evidence which proved her son was murdered.<br /><br />And it may have been over a love triangle.<br /><br />She said, “Toba’s other friends who were in the apartment when the incident occurred told me that they noticed that the Saudi boy had splatters of blood on his T-shirt, a cut on his fingers and blood on his knuckles. In panic, they rushed to the balcony and saw that my son was no longer there. So, they knew that something had happened. The Saudi kept telling them that they shouldn’t worry about it (my son’s death); because the maximum he would do was 25 years in jail, and that he would take care of it.<br /><br />“They said my son and the Saudi had an altercation over his girlfriend, a Briton. The Saudi had claimed that his girlfriend was cheating on him with my son. But he (one of Toba’s friend) said my son was only being protective of the girl.”<br /><br />In two separate signed and hand-written statements, dated April 20 and April 21 respectively, obtained by SUNDAY PUNCH, Toba’s friends (names withheld) detailed the events that happened in the apartment prior to his death.<br /><br />At the end of one of the statements, dated April 21, one of them wrote: “I remember that the position that Tyler was from the building was very far off from the building (apartment). It was obvious that an external force caused this.”<br /><br />In the other statement, dated April 20, another of Toba’s friends who was also present in his apartment, corroborated the earlier statement. At the end, the statement, he added that the Saudi had blood on his shirt but he was ‘never taken for investigation or examination.<br /><br />Falode pleaded with the Federal Government to intervene on the matter and ensure that justice is done.<br /><br />“No American or British citizen can be slaughtered anywhere in the world without their government asking questions. We can’t call ourselves ‘Giant of Africa’ if our citizens are killed in other countries, and yet we have not heard of any single investigation by our government. It is indeed very sad for me. This is one death too many,” she lamented, and urged the FG to prevail on the Dubai authorities to re-open the investigation into the case.<br /><br />“The government needs to see this as a justice for a Nigerian. It is very painful for any parent to lose a 19-year-old son who has so much promise and future ahead of him. It is also to prevent another Nigerian from dying this way. If we had a good system in Nigeria, why would we be sending our children abroad to study? It’s not about my son anymore, but other Nigerians who still have the intention of sending their children to Dubai.”<br /><br />Many have not stopped talking about Toba’s sterling quality. A testimonial from one of Toba’s teachers in SAE read, “I had the pleasure of meeting Tyler from the start of his educational experience at SAE Dubai. As he walked into my class the first day, he instantly stood out the most, always with a smile, a bright sense of humour, highly active, engaging and always asking the right questions, searching for answers to satisfy creative thirst to express and share his love of music and life.<br /><br />“I would spot Tyler numerous times in the studios around campus with friends and classmates collaborating and putting tracks together, always ready and willing to help others with projects and issues they may face. These qualities reflected on everyone and made the best out of every opportunity. He was an inspiration to all that knew him.”<br /><br />In recent times, there have been several cases of Nigerian students who died in foreign countries.<br /><br />In March, the House of Representatives moved a motion to conduct a public hearing on the death of Nigerian students abroad.<br /><br />In a motion, the Chairman, House Committee on Diaspora Affairs, Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said Ghana, Russia, United Arab Emirates, Malaysia and South Africa were listed among the nations where Nigerian students had been killed recently. Dabiri-Erewa noted that in Ghana, four Nigerian students had been killed since October 2013<br /><br />For Aisha Falode and her family, a dream has been cruelly extinguished and she hopes that justice would be done.<br /><br />“My son is gone and I can’t bring him back, but it is very painful to lose a 19-year-old who has so much promise and so much future. It is also to prevent other Nigerians from dying this way,” she told SUNDAY PUNCH.<br /><br />When contacted on the telephone, Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, Ambassador Ibrahim Auwalu, told our correspondent that the Federal Government is taking steps to get to the root of the matter.<br /><br />While he noted that Falode had contacted him on telephone earlier, he said the embassy received an official letter from her lawyers in the first week of May, although it was dated in April.<br /><br />“Although Aisha and I had been speaking on telephone, I did not know she had already come to Dubai. I waited for her to contact me, so that I could also meet her physically and personally condole with her. United Arab Emirates is a federation, and each of those emirates has its own legal system and police, and anything we do in the UAE has to be through the ministry of foreign affairs. I’ve been in touch with the ministry of foreign affairs. We want to handle this as comprehensibly as possible because it is now a government matter.”<br /><br />Auwalu noted that the embassy sent the police report and forensic lab report to Falode as requested.<br /><br />He said, “These two we have done. We are now waiting to put all the parts together and then we would seek audience, either with the Dubai police or with the appropriate authorities. We have taken the matter seriously. The government of Nigeria would get to the bottom of it. That is why we are here, it is our job. I am telling Nigerians that we would do everything that is legally possible to get to the bottom of this.”<br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-60725948636267913382014-05-18T20:00:00.000+01:002014-05-18T20:00:00.586+01:00Controversy over fresh test into unity schools<br />
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In order to achieve merit-based admissions, candidates who took the last common entrance examination into unity schools are to take another test, writes GBENGA ADENIJI<br /><br />There has been growing concern over the planned conduct of fresh test for pupils who passed the last common entrance examination. The National Examinations Council is prepared to conduct another test for the successful candidates to select the best for admission into Federal Government Colleges otherwise called unity schools.<br /><br />The Supervising Minister of Education, Mr. Nyesom Wike, made the disclosure to the News Agency of Nigeria, during the monitoring of the examination in some schools in the FCT.<br /><br />Also, the Registrar of NECO, Prof. Promise Okpala, told NAN that the increase in enrolment of pupils for the examination this year was a proof of parents’ confidence in the quality of education service offered by the schools.<br /><br />He said, ‘’A total of 95,926 candidates registered for the Common Entrance Examination into Federal Government Colleges in 2014, as against 88,444 in 2013. 18,726 candidates registered for the examination in the FCT alone, while Lagos State had the highest number of enrolment with 26,926 candidates. There was a decrease in some northern states, with Borno having 218; Yobe, 176; and Adamawa, 318. Zamfara recorded the lowest number of enrolment with only 113 candidates.’’<br /><br />Reacting to the development, Principal, King’s College, Lagos, Mr. Dele Olapeju, who described himself as an advocate of second examination for candidates of common entrance, said the move was not new.<br /><br />He said it was important for another examination to be conducted for the successful candidates under the purview of the Federal Government after the one conducted by the external body.<br /><br />Olapeju said, ‘It is important to conduct another test for quality assurance. We know that some parents assist their children to obtain jumbo marks in examination such as the common entrance. But when you say there are two separate tests, parents will not be desperate to do anything to make their children score high marks because at the end of the day, there is still another test. It is a simple logic.’’<br /><br />He also said cultism and unserious students are declining in the university system after the introduction of post-UME across universities in the country after the conduct of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination. ‘‘If a pupil is sure of his or her quality, let him or her face the second test,’’ he added.<br /><br />An educationist, Dr. Ademola Azeez, however said a second test was strange to Federal Government Colleges.<br /><br />Noting that the guidelines on how the examination would be conducted should have been stated from the beginning, Azeez, added that the conduct of a second test was a manifestation of corruption in the education system.<br /><br />He stated, ‘‘If a pupil performed well in the first examination, there is no need to subject him or her to another test. Such a pupil should be deemed to have performed well in the first instance and admitted to the school of his or her choice. The idea of conducting another test for successful pupils would be open to all sort of manipulation.’’<br /><br />Also, Proprietress, Springside Schools, Arepo, in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State, Mrs. Titilayo Adetomiwa, stated that the second test was a laudable step that would bring sanity to education at the foundation level.<br /><br />She however said such could be achieved if the second test was taken only by candidates who passed the first one. According to her, that is when one can genuinely justify the second test designed to ensure merit.<br /><br />Adetomiwa said, ‘’Only those who performed well in the common entrance examination should be allowed to take the second test. This must be done with all sincerity.’’<br /><br />On its part, Education Rights Campaign said it was opposed to double examination for pupils and students in both secondary and tertiary levels because it would reduce chances of admission.<br /><br />The group, speaking through its National Coordinator, Mr. Taiwo Hassan, added that the second test would not bring out the best in the pupils.<br /><br />He said, ‘‘We agree with the Federal Government that most times, pupils and students receiving secondary and tertiary education are not capable enough. But that situation is a product of the neglect of the sector over the years. It is not the fault of the scholars. Conducting a second test for the pupils will not bring out the best in them. What the government should do is to provide all the needed manpower and basic facilities in the schools and admit those who passed the first examination within the stipulated standard regulations.’’<br /><br />Hassan further said the second test was designed to reduce the number of intakes into unity schools because they are not capable of admitting most of the pupils just like universities across the country.<br /><br />In the same vein, a former Dean, Faculty of Education, Lagos State University, Prof. Ademola Onifade, said one of the problems confronting candidates seeking admission into secondary or tertiary schools was their subjection to many examinations. He noted that such drains them academically and psychologically.<br /><br />Onifade said, ‘‘In the US, the Graduate Record Examinations is a standard examination for those seeking admission into graduate colleges while the Graduate Management Admission Test is meant to test a candidate’s overall mental and quantitative skills for admission into a graduate management programme. These examinations are general. But in Nigeria, there are too many examinations for admission-seekers. This kind of situation is capable of draining them psychologically. One examination is enough for them and there is no need for another one.’’<br /><br />According to him, the pupils who took the last common entrance examination should be screened with the results of the examination. Onifade also stated that the results should be enough to achieve the merit standard the Federal Government was hoping to achieve with the second test.<br /><br />He added that when pupils are overstressed, given their ages, it would be difficult to get the best performance from them.<br /><br />However, Wike, who spoke to NAN through the Director, Basic and Secondary Education in the Federal Ministry of Education, Daniel Uwaezuoke, further said the fresh test was in line with government’s promise to ensure that 60 per cent of admissions into Federal Government Colleges were on merit. He added that 40 per cent would be allocated on the basis of quota system.<br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-18457198952188343732014-05-18T19:00:00.000+01:002014-05-18T19:00:00.580+01:00Patience Jonathan influences confab<br />
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The wife of President Goodluck Jonathan, Patience, may have forgotten her dramatic appearance on the television while interrogating some officials over the abducted schoolgirls in Borno State; but the impact of her speech during the dramatic event still lingers and has spread to the national conference.<br /><br />As soon as any delegate arrived, his colleagues would ask, “Na only you waka come?” Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State was ushered into the room where he made presentations to members of the Committee on Civil Society, Labour, Youths and Sports, and some of the delegates asked: ‘na only you waka come?’<br /><br />Meanwhile,when, Adams Oshiomhole, narrated his ordeal before members of one of the committees, some shook their heads in disbelief and pity. According to the comrade governor, he was ageing faster than when he was leading the Nigeria Labour Congress.<br /><br />Oshiomhole said some governors were angry with him over his stand on the minimum wage and that they have asked him to stop talking like a labour leader. But he said he would never support the agitation that the minimum wage be moved from the Exclusive List to the Concurrent List. <br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-85321435560912790312014-05-18T18:00:00.000+01:002014-05-18T18:00:03.122+01:00Jonathan suspends 2015 declaration<br />
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The elaborate plan being put in place for President Goodluck Jonathan to declare his bid to run for second term in office has been put on hold, SUNDAY PUNCH learnt on Friday.<br /><br />As part of the preparations, many groups had been formed with the aim of selling the candidature of the President to Nigerians.<br /><br />The groups, which have been placing paid advertorials on national television stations and newspapers, were put together by supporters of the President with the aim of working towards his declaration, which was planned to hold in May.<br /><br />However, the current security challenge facing the country has affected the plan, as the President’s supporters believe such a declaration will be ill-timed.<br /><br />The sacking of the Special Adviser to the President on Political Affairs, Ahmed Gulak, was also said to have come to the leadership and members of the Goodluck Support Group, being headed by Gulak, as a shock.<br /><br />The former Speaker of the Adamawa State House of Assembly, who was said to be angry with the sack, has also resigned his position as the national co-ordinator of the GSG.<br /><br />His deputy, Dr. Eddy Awofeso, who is acting as the national coordinator of the group, however, said Gulak’s resignation would not affect the workings of the group.<br /><br />Awofeso, who spoke with our correspondent in Abuja, defended the refusal of the President to make his intention to run for a second term public now, saying the security situation in the country needed his attention.<br /><br />He said, “There are about 3,000 groups working for the re-election of the President and they are all members of the Goodluck Support Group. We are still working together.<br /><br />“Yes, we didn’t expect the resignation of the national co-ordinator when it came, but I’m acting now.<br /><br />“However, we may need to appoint someone else in the position for the purpose of balancing.<br /><br />“Concerning the declaration of the President, it will come but not now. The security challenge facing the country needs his total attention and that is what he is doing now. We all need to cooperate with him in this war against terrorism.”<br /><br />It was also learnt that the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party had also postponed the party’s unity rallies in some states.<br /><br />The President ought to have led the leadership of the ruling party to Lafia, Nasarawa State capital, on Saturday to receive defectors including Governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura’s deputy, Dameshi Luka, who moved to the PDP on March 4, as well as Senator Solomon Ewuga, and some members of the House of Representatives like Mr. Joseph Kigbu, Mr. David Ombugadu and Mr. Ishaq Kana.<br /><br />It was also gathered that the President had ordered the postponement of other rallies billed for Port Harcourt, Rivers State and Ibadan, Oyo State.<br /><br />Meanwhile, the main group that was responsible for the financing of the President’s election in 2011, Neighbour to Neighbour, has changed its name to National Social Initiate.<br /><br />The defunct group was headed by Ms. Stella Oduah, who after the election, was appointed minister of aviation by the President.<br /><br />Oduah was however sacked following a series of scandals that trailed her term in office, which included the purchase of two bulletproof cars at N255m.<br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-86410856683765305952014-05-18T17:30:00.000+01:002014-05-18T17:30:01.410+01:0010 million Nigerian kids out of school — Report<br />
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With 10 million children out of school, Nigeria currently has the highest number of kids in the world without education, the United Nations Children’s Fund has said.<br /><br />According to UNICEF, almost one of three primary-school aged children and one in four secondary-school aged children is not enrolled.<br /><br />“In many states, girls are twice as likely to be out of school as boys. In some parts of Nigeria, only five per cent of the poorest young women are literate. Given these challenges, it is disturbing that the girls were abducted to prevent them from attending school, UNICEF said in a recent statement condemning the abduction.<br /><br />Since 2012, Boko Haram has targeted schools in northern Nigeria. Dozens of schools have been attacked or burnt down. In a single attack in February in Yobe State, 45 children were killed by the insurgents.<br /><br />UNICEF, in its statement, said recent kidnappings and violent attacks had made it difficult for children in northern Nigeria to get education, as thousands of families are fleeing their homes and pulling their children out of school.<br /><br />In the last three months alone, the United Nation’s organisation reported that at least 15,000 children in northern Nigeria had stopped attending classes.<br /><br />“It’s heart-stopping data,” UNICEF’s chief of child protection, Susan Bissell said.<br /><br />The organisation’s programmes in Nigeria focus on the problems of violence and abuse against children in schools and work to address the issues of girls’ education and out-of-school children. The UNICEF-supported Girls’ Education Project aims to give 1 million girls access to better quality education in northern Nigeria-through increased enrolment, scholarships for female teachers and the establishment of safe spaces for girls.<br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-56690742577857600592014-05-18T17:00:00.000+01:002014-05-18T17:00:01.900+01:00Boko Haram writes school, plots fresh abductions<br />
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We need schoolboys to wed Chibok girls – Sect<br /><br />Thirty-four days after the fundamentalist Islamic sect, Boko Haram, abducted over 200 schoolgirls from Government Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State, it has threatened to kidnap more pupils.<br /><br />The United States of America, France, Britain, Israel and Canada are among the foreign countries that have pledged to help Nigeria find the schoolgirls that were kidnapped by Boko Haram on April 14.<br /><br />The pupils were kidnapped in the night and their hostels were burnt. However, while Boko Haram transported them in trucks to its Sambisa Forest stronghold, over 50 of the schoolgirls escaped from the sect.<br /><br />There have been reports that some of the girls have been seen being moved out of Nigeria. Other reports have said the girls were seen in the northern parts of the Central African Republic where an Islamic militia, Seleka, holds sway.<br /><br />Last week, the leader of the sect, Abubakar Shekau, in a video asked for the release of Boko Haram detainees in exchange for the pupils. The Federal Government turned down the request.<br /><br />On Saturday, the Principal of Government College, Makurdi, Mr. Godfrey Ugudu, revealed that the school had received letters from Boko Haram threatening to attack the school.<br /><br />The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Ugudu, who announced this at a news conference in Makurdi, added that the school received two letters which had the same content on May 14.<br /><br />“It is true that we saw two letters informing us of the intention of the sect to invade our school on Friday or Monday by Boko Haram.<br /><br />“The letters were dated May 14, 2014. The sect stated that they were coming on either of the two days to abduct our boys whom they would marry to the secondary school girls abducted in Chibok.”<br /><br />The school principal added that in the letter, Boko Haram also threatened to arrest another nearby school.<br /><br />“In the letter, we were asked to inform the Mount Saint Gabriel Secondary School opposite us to also get prepared as they promised to invade the school too.<br /><br />“We immediately alerted the police and the commissioner for education. A report has been made to the governor on the issue.<br /><br />“The two letters, which were written in pidgin English, were sighted inside one of the classrooms and the second one was slipped into the staff room,” he said.<br /><br />The principal commended the government and security operatives in the state for their prompt response to the issue.<br /><br />He said measures had been put in place to ensure the safety of the school children, adding that he had informed the Principal of Mount Saint Gabriel.<br /><br />NAN reports that about 500 out of about 700 students of the college are living in the school while Mount Saint Gabriel is purely a boarding school.<br /><br />The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Dan Ezeala, confirmed the report adding that police were on top of the situation.<br /><br />When SUNDAY PUNCH contacted the Director of Defence Information, Maj. Gen Chris Olukolade, he asked our correspondent to speak to the police and the school authorities.<br /><br />“I think you should talk to the police and the schools. The security agencies are in the states are supposed to be operating,” he said.<br /><br />The Force Public Relations Officer, Frank Mba, could not be reached for comments as calls made to his phone failed to connect. A text message sent to his phone was not responded to as of the time of filing this report.<br /><br />Meanwhile, the drones and other surveillance aircraft deployed by the US government to search for the over 200 abducted pupils have yet to locate them.<br /><br />While promising to intensify efforts to find the schoolgirls, US Defence Secretary, Chuk Hagel, told the Cable Network News, that the pupils had not been seen.<br /><br />“I have seen no intelligence come back that I am aware of that shows that we’ve located those girls,” he reportedly said on Wednesday.<br /><br />This came amid reports that the US would not share intelligence data with Nigeria.<br /><br />Pentagon spokesman, Col. Steve Warren, was quoted to have said the US was disposed to sharing commercial satellite imagery with Nigeria, but not raw military data.<br /><br />“At this point, we are not sharing raw intelligence data,” Warren said. He did not give reasons for this. But the US is known not to share intelligence with governments its officials adjudge to be careless with intelligence information.<br /><br />Efforts by SUNDAY PUNCH to find out if there had been any new development did not yield results.<br /><br />The Public Affairs Officer of the US Embassy, Sani Mohammed, on Friday asked our correspondent to send his question via email, but as of the time this report was filed, he had yet to reply to the mail.<br /><br />Meanwhile, the Chairman of the National Information Centre, Mr. Mike Omeri, has told one of our correspondents that Nigeria will adopt “global best practices” to ensure that the Chibok girls were freed.<br /><br />Omeri stated this in a telephone interview while responding to an enquiry from SUNDAY PUNCH.<br /><br />He was asked whether or not the government had changed its position that it would not exchange the girls for the detained Boko Haram members.<br /><br />The NIC chairman said, “All options are on the table. Nigeria will adopt international best practices to ensure the girls are free.<br /><br />“The government of Nigeria is going to explore all options to secure the release of the abducted girls.”<br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-51124702117858174792014-05-18T16:00:00.000+01:002014-05-18T16:00:04.292+01:00Jonathan’s tenure extension memo floods confab<br />
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Plan to use the ongoing National Conference to extend the tenure of President Goodluck Jonathan and other political office holders has been exposed.<br /><br />A document prepared by one of the delegates from the South-South has been distributed to some delegates on the need to postpone the 2015 general elections by 18 months.<br /><br />The document, which was prepared by Okon Osung, was distributed to the delegates last week.<br /><br />Osung, who spoke with journalists in Abuja on Friday evening, confirmed the distribution of the documents.<br /><br />He, however, insisted that he solely prepared the document, which he entitled, “Preserve Nigeria’s democracy: Postpone the 2015 election now.”<br /><br />He said there was the need for the President or National Assembly declaring a “politico-administrative moratorium or cooling-off period” before the conduct of the elections scheduled for February 2015.<br /><br />He said, “This calls for the postponement or deferment of the scheduled 2015 elections by at least 18 months, while retaining all the democratic institutions at all levels of governance and across the entire spectrum of the country’s political divide, without any bias to the statutory termination dates of such democratic institutions.<br /><br />“This implies the retention of the presidency, offices of governors in the states, the National Assembly (Senate and House of Representatives), state Houses of Assembly, local government chairmen, the Independent National Electoral Commission and the respective state Independent Electoral Commissions.<br /><br />“It is imperatively necessary to speedily put the proposed politico-administrative moratorium into effect, and Nigeria would not be lacking in terms of historical precedent of having to rise to a difficult and unforeseen contingency or occasion for which the country’s constitution had not made adequate provision.”<br /><br />He said the extension of tenure to be occasioned with the postponement would be based on the invocation of what he called the “the doctrine of necessity” by the National Assembly.<br /><br />Osung added that it would be wrong to call the proposal tenure elongation or tenure extension, as his suggestion would profit all Nigerians across the political divide.<br /><br />He said it would be wrong to go for elections now, saying there was the need to check the phenomenon of military intervention now that the country seemed to be experiencing gradual institutionalisation of democratic process.<br /><br />He also said almost all the zones in the country were experiencing crises and that holding of election now could aggravate such crises.<br /><br />“The North-East has been infested with Boko Haram; South-South with the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta and other militants who specialise in the vandalism of oil installations and kidnapping; the South-East with the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra, who specialises in kidnapping and robbery; while the Oodua Peoples Congress in the South-West is hobbled by lynching cultism, ritual killings and other fetish bestial practices.<br /><br />“Fulani herdsmen are ravaging the North-Central, killing and maiming innocent civilians as ominous cloud of insecurity is hanging perilously and menacingly over the country like the Sword of Damocles currently,” he said.<br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-23666901916515039252014-05-18T15:00:00.000+01:002014-05-18T15:00:03.183+01:00Chibok Visit: Jonathan afraid of soldiers, says Falana<br />
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Human rights activist and lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN) has described President Goodluck Jonathan’s suspended visit to Chibok as an expression of his fear for the soldiers in Borno State.<br /><br />Speaking with SUNDAY PUNCH in a telephone interview, Falana said the President put on hold his visit to Chibok not because he was afraid of Boko Haram but because he feared the likely action of the soldiers stationed there in view of the mutiny on Wednesday by the 7 Infantry Division of the Nigerian Army in Maiduguri.<br /><br />“Why did President Goodluck Jonathan cancel his visit to Chibok? Is he afraid of Boko Haram? No. He is afraid of the soldiers, his army. The mutiny that occurred in Chibok was a reaction against the way the authority is treating the soldiers. They are not happy. Even Jonathan admitted to these soldiers being ill-equipped during his last media chat. What happened to the trillions of naira budgeted for the army in the last three years?” Falana asked.<br /><br />He added that Nigerian soldiers fighting Boko Haram were demoralised and not motivated.<br /><br />“These soldiers are not motivated. For instance, for every soldier killed in Iraq or Afghanistan, the US Secretary of State sends a handwritten and signed letter to each family of the killed soldiers. The American government pays all their entitlements within two, three weeks or one month. The Americans care for their soldiers. They give the dead soldiers a hero’s burial.<br /><br />“Here, we don’t even get to know the names of the fallen soldiers. Their families are not usually cared for. One thousand soldiers died and we don’t know them; we don’t have their names. The press is just reporting about Boko Haram and the number of people killed. No one is talking about the soldiers, the number and names of those killed and their families”, the human rights lawyer observed.<br /><br />He also alleged that the soldiers were thrown into battle terrains they were not familiar with.<br /><br />According to him, Nigerian soldiers are intelligent and valiant considering their exploits in Sierra Leone and Liberia.<br /><br />Speaking further, he said, “The military authority commanded these valiant soldiers to go to terrains they don’t understand. It’s too easy for them to be ambushed by the insurgents. These are fantastic men who had done well in peacekeeping missions in Sierra Leone and Liberia. The Amnesty International’s report is true. The security operatives were given advance information about Boko Haram; but they claimed they had too many pieces of information they were working with.”<br /><br />The Punch had earlier in the week reported that several soldiers were killed when troops of the 7 Infantry Division ran into an ambush of the insurgents at a Muleh, Jere Local Government Area of Borno State on Tuesday. Muleh is said to be located along the Maiduguri-Biu Road.<br /><br />The soldiers became incensed when they sighted the bodies of their fallen colleagues and friends with several others injured in the attack.<br /><br />A security source said the angry soldiers almost went wild when the General Officer Commanding the division, Maj-Gen Abubakar Mohammed, attempted to address them.<br /><br />The angry soldiers were said to have shot repeatedly into the air which made several of their calmer colleagues to run for cover. It was learnt that the enraged soldiers attempted to attack the official vehicle of the GOC who was quickly ferried out of the Maimalari Barracks headquarters of the division.<br /><br />Mohammed, had since been removed with Brig.-Gen. M. Y Ibrahim appointed as his replacement.<br /><br />Meanwhile, the authorities of the Nigerian Army on Thursday reacted to the mutiny of some soldiers of the 7 division by instituting a high-powered delegation to investigate the occurrence.<br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-66013411395091247812014-05-18T14:00:00.000+01:002014-05-18T14:00:01.441+01:00Sunday Sermon: Can Good Works Get Us To Heaven?<br />
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When asked how they’ll get to heaven when they die, many people say, “I think my good works will outweigh any bad things I’ve done.” The underlying thought is that their good works will be their ticket to heaven. While good works are important, they are not on God’s list of requirements for salvation. Those who think their good works will get them to heaven need to know what the Bible says about salvation.<br /><br />First we have to understand our sinful condition compared to God’s holiness. When the prophet Isaiah was in God’s presence he cried, “Woe to me ... I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips” (Isa. 6:5). He didn’t think he was so bad until he saw how far short of God’s holiness he was.<br /><br />Sin came into the world when Adam and Eve disobeyed God. Their sin may not seem so serious. Some have even compared it to a child sneaking a cookie when mom wasn’t looking. But Adam wasn’t a child and God had commanded him not to eat the fruit of only one specific tree in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 2:16-17). His eating that fruit was a direct act of disobedience which caused an insurmountable rift between him and God. That act of disobedience is called sin and it resulted in spiritual and physical death being inherited by all mankind: “Just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin ... in this way death came to all men, because all sinned” (Rom. 5:12).<br /><br />There are many Bible verses that show us that all of us are sinners and by our own efforts we are totally unable to please God: “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23). Spiritual and physical death continues for all sinners: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom. 6:23). The Bible tells us that man has no good works worthy of salvation because “all our righteous acts are like filthy rags” (Isa. 64:6).<br /><br />God knows us and fully understands our inability to save ourselves. But because of His great love for all mankind, He revealed His plan to save us from our sins: “God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him” (Jn. 3:16-17). And based on his own experience, the apostle Paul wrote that “God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8).<br /><br />God made salvation available to all, but we need to believe God and trust in the perfect sacrifice Jesus made when He shed His blood and died on the cross to save us: “You know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed ... but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect” (1 Pet. 1:18-19).<br /><br />Salvation is not accomplished by our good works, but by turning from our sinful ways (repenting) and receiving salvation as a free gift when we ask Jesus to be our Savior: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast” (Eph. 2:8-9). And the apostle John wrote: “To all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God” (Jn. 1:12).<br /><br />Receiving Christ into our lives guarantees us forgiveness of sins, the assurance of eternal life and a place in heaven. “He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life” (1 Jn. 5:12-13).<br /><br />Trying to get to heaven by doing good works will not work. Trusting in God’s plan for salvation will work. Would you like more information about God’s plan? We can tell you more!<br /><br />By Ian Taylor<br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-85185565448099920132014-05-18T13:00:00.000+01:002014-05-18T13:00:01.547+01:00Sunday Sermon: What If Your Heart Stops?<br />
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In the average lifetime, the heart pumps enough blood to fill 3.3 supertankers! What a dependable little organ is the human heart! Every day, including Sunday and holidays, this little engine keeps on pumping our blood nonstop. And it continues even while we sleep.<br /><br />The heart never complains about the weather and never asks for a vacation. It works best when treated well, but continues to serve even when working conditions are stressful.<br /><br />How much we need the heart! If one eye is blind, we can still see with the other. If one ear is deaf, we can still hear with the other. If we lose a leg, we can still walk with a crutch. But we only have one heart.<br /><br />While We Live<br />Our “pumping machine” is about the size of one’s fist and weighs just a little more than half a pound. It beats about 70 times a minute, 4200 times an hour, 100,800 times a day, and 36,792,000 times a year. The heart of a 70-year-old person has beaten over 2.5 billion times.<br /><br />The heart generates enough energy in 50 years to lift a battleship out of the water. In the average lifetime, it pumps enough blood to fill 3.3 supertankers!<br /><br />According to one encyclopedia, the heart pumps blood through about 12,000 miles of blood vessels in the human body. This is about the distance from San Francisco, California to Nairobi, Kenya – or about half way around the world.<br /><br />Although this organ, which keeps our blood constantly circulating, can be weakened by disease and abuse, it generally gives an excellent, ceaseless service for many years before it finally stops. When that happens, we die.<br /><br />When We Die<br />This brings us to a very personal but important question: If your heart should stop five minutes from now, would you go to heaven or hell?<br /><br />I hope you can say the following with assurance: “Yes, I know that when I die I will go to heaven. I have turned to God in repentance, and received Jesus Christ as my personal Savior. I have put my trust in His precious blood shed on Calvary’s cross to atone for my sins. And I have received the gift of God, which is eternal life. So I know I will go to heaven when I die.”<br /><br />But maybe all you can say is this: “No, I do not know where I will go after my heart stops, but I would really like to know for sure.” If this is the case, read on.<br /><br />The Bible tells us that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23). The word “all” includes you and me. In fact, it includes everybody. But it also says that “Christ died for our sins” – yours as well as mine (1 Cor. 15:3).<br /><br />What To Do<br />To receive God’s free gift of salvation, the Bible says we must trust Jesus as our personal Savior: “As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name” (Jn. 1:12).<br /><br />Here’s how to receive Jesus Christ as your Savior: Ask Him to come into your life, to take away your sins and to help you live for Him. Do this now, and should your heart stop in five minutes, you will know where you will spend eternity – in heaven!<br /><br />By Fred Cowell<br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-48917386423794419192014-05-18T12:00:00.000+01:002014-05-18T12:00:01.763+01:00Sunday Sermon: His BLOOD The Number One Life Saver <br />
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A recent American Red Cross appeal for blood donors says blood is “the number one medicine for saving lives!” One encyclopedia refers to blood as “the very stream of life, without which life ceases.” A medical book tells us that “blood carries the very breath of life (oxygen) to every part of the body, while removing waste products (such as carbon dioxide) from every part of the body.” These dramatic statements about the vital importance of blood for sustaining human life are not only true for the medical profession, they also communicate a wonderful truth about gaining and sustaining spiritual life: the power is in the blood!<br /><br />In the Bible, Paul makes this life-saving statement: “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord” (Rom. 6:23 NIV). And John tells us just how Jesus saves our lives: “The blood of Jesus ... purifies us from every sin” (1 Jn. 1:7).<br /><br />Over 3,000 years ago, Moses recognized this power of the blood when he wrote that “the life of a creature is in the blood ... it is the blood that makes atonement for one’s life” (Lev. 17:11). When we are given new life spiritually by the power of Christ’s shed blood, we become part of His body, and He continues His cleansing and sustaining work in us.<br /><br />The number of times something is mentioned in writing usually gives us some idea of how important a subject it is. This is no less true in the Bible, where the word “blood” appears at least 340 times in the Old Testament, and at least 100 times in the New Testament. Blood is central to the two most important days in the Jewish calendar – the Passover (which corresponds to Easter) and the Day of Atonement.<br /><br />In the Passover, the blood is seen as life-saving: “When the Lord goes through the land to strike down the Egyptians, He will see the blood ... and will pass over ... and not permit the destroyer to enter your houses and strike you down” (Ex. 12:23). Death visited those houses not protected by the blood. What a tragedy!<br /><br />The Day of Atonement literally means “day of covering” and Leviticus 16 tells us that the shed blood of the sin offering (usually a lamb) actually covered the sins of the people. What a wonderful picture of the blood of Christ, “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (Jn. 1:29).<br /><br />How exciting to know that there is new life for us in the blood that was shed by Jesus Christ upon Calvary’s cross: “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sin” (Heb. 9:22). And this new life is eternal! When Christ said, “This is My blood ... poured out for ... the forgiveness of sins” (Mt. 26:28), He gave eternal significance to the American Red Cross slogan quoted at the beginning of this article. In fact, where sin is concerned, the blood of Jesus Christ is not just the number one life-saving medicine, it is the only medicine for cleansing sin-sick lives!<br /><br />Have you discovered the power of Jesus’ blood in your own life? Have you allowed His blood to save you? I hope so.<br /><br />By Larry Ondrejack<br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-75968991343824076602014-05-18T11:00:00.000+01:002014-05-18T11:00:05.623+01:00Sunday Sermon: There Is Power In His BLOOD<br />
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“The power in the blood” is one of those phrases that should be in the Bible, but it isn’t. You are more likely to find it in an older hymnbook. Whichever version of the Bible you use, you will probably not find the exact phrase, “the power in the blood.” I’ve searched through nine translations in my library and cannot find it. While I don’t think the phrase is there, I’m certain that the truth of it is.<br /><br />An old hymn which begins with the question “Would you be free from your burden of sin?” was written by Lewis Edgar Jones in 1899 at a camp meeting in Mountain Lake, Maryland. It has been referred to by many as “the anthem of the Church.” This hymn clearly affirms the truth of the phrase, “the power in the blood.”<br />Would you be free from the burden of sin?<br />There’s power in the blood, power in the blood;<br />Would you o’er evil a victory win?<br />There’s wonderful power in the blood.<br /><br />Refrain:<br />There is power, power, wonder working power<br />In the blood of the Lamb;<br />There is power, power, wonder working power<br />In the precious blood of the Lamb.<br /><br />Would you be free from your passion and pride?<br />There’s power in the blood, power in the blood;<br />Come for a cleansing to Calvary’s tide;<br />There’s wonderful power in the blood.<br />Refrain<br /><br />Would you be whiter, much whiter than snow?<br />There’s power in the blood, power in the blood;<br />Sin stains are lost in its life giving flow.<br />There’s wonderful power in the blood.<br />Refrain<br /><br />Would you do service for Jesus your King?<br />There’s power in the blood, power in the blood;<br />Would you live daily His praises to sing?<br />There’s wonderful power in the blood.<br />Refrain<br /><br />From the words of this hymn it is evident that the blood of Jesus Christ, God’s Son, empowers victories over sin, evil, passion and pride, and enables victorious service for Jesus Christ to anyone who would truly be a follower of Jesus.<br /><br />In the early centuries of the Church, the Romans, and other peoples around them, accused Christians of “cannibalism” because they spoke so much about partaking of the body and blood of Jesus Christ at their communion services. I hope we are beyond such criticism today.<br /><br />Come with me on a six point study of the blood of Jesus Christ as found in the New Testament. It is admittedly incomplete as there is so much material on the subject that we could use. And please excuse me if your favorite “blood” verse is not referred to. If you share this brief study with others you can always add your favorite text where appropriate. Remember, our focus is on “the power in the blood.”<br /><br />1. Powerful Sacrifice Of His Blood<br />“Since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through Him!” — Romans 5:9<br />Jesus did not wait for us to be good enough before He died for us. We were still deep in sin when our Savior rescued us. He exchanged our sinfulness for His goodness. “God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Cor. 5:21). The nails that spilt His blood onto Calvary’s earth also drove home His righteousness which was offered to us while He took the punishment for our sinfulness. It was His sacrificial love which covered all our sins. He was reconciling mankind whom He had created back into friendship with Himself. “For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through His life!” (Rom. 5:10).<br /><br />2. Powerful Substitution Of His Blood<br />“God was pleased ... through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through His blood, shed on the cross.” — Colossians 1:19-20<br />At conception, God the Son became man in Mary’s womb. Jesus was man enough to become a substitute for all of mankind. He was completely man as God intended man to be. Exceptionally, Jesus did not sin in thought, word, deed or any other way. Death, which applied to all who had sinned, never applied to the sinless Jesus. So God the Father gave God the Son for everyone else in the world’s history – past, present and future – who would receive Him as their Savior. “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (Jn. 3:16). His shed blood covers the sins of multi-millions! No wonder we sing, “There’s power in the blood.”<br /><br />3. Powerful Salvation By His Blood<br />“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” — Ephesians 1:7<br />The Christian has nothing to boast about except that Jesus Christ’s blood has made him wonderfully acceptable to God. Once His blood is applied to an individual his sins are forgiven – graciously and justly. Sin does matter, but God has paid the penalty Himself in Christ. From His super-abundant treasure chest of grace God says something like this: “I see you are one who belongs to Me because of My Son. Well done for using the faith I offered you to become one of heaven’s citizens, with Jesus Christ as your Savior.”<br /><br />Some of my friends have to take blood-thinning tablets every day because they have heart conditions. The blood of Jesus is just right for cleansing our sinful heart condition. While His blood cleanses us once and for all, it is also available when we fall back into the error of our ways. God’s grace never dries up, never wears out, and never will expire until we are with Him in glory.<br /><br />4. Powerful Sanctification By His Blood<br />“To God’s elect ... who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by His blood.” — 1 Peter 1:2<br />Peter ends the above verse with words which describe how Christians can live a sanctified life: “Grace and peace be yours in abundance.” Just as our salvation is all from Jesus Christ and through His blood, so is our sanctification or holy living. Those who have chosen to be strangers in this world, because heaven is our real home, are to show our heavenly life here as a means of attracting people to Jesus Christ. “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Mt. 5:16).<br /><br />It was so good to read of the Pakistani people thanking Christians for being first on the scene to help them after their disastrous 2010-2011 floods. This is how Christians should act. We should live to show Christ’s heavenly order here on earth. When we are stretched to do good, we experience God’s provision ourselves. He supplies means to do what He wants to be done. It may be a huge event like the floods mentioned, or it may be a small, personal event, such as helping one person through one of life’s little difficulties. Those who are new creations in Christ show God’s “grace and peace ... in abundance” in their lifestyle.<br /><br />5. Powerful Security In His Blood<br />“If we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from all sin.” — 1 John 1:7<br />Jesus showed by His own life that it is possible to be a “light” in a world of “darkness.” The disciples passed on what they had learned from Jesus. They argued that it was not possible to be a true follower of Jesus and still “walk in darkness” – to live with yourself in charge of your own life, rather than having Jesus Christ clearly in charge, setting the goals, making an agenda and keeping accounts.<br /><br />If you visit the doctor because you feel ill, he is likely to arrange for you to have a blood test. Chemical analysis can show if there is enough iron in the blood, or whether the white cell count is high or low. Tests like these can show diseases and are invaluable for diagnosis. I venture to suggest that Christians who live with a wrong view of the blood of Jesus Christ will show signs of spiritual sickness and not be a light to others. All sin matters, but it can be cleansed by confession to Jesus with application of His blood. The blood of Jesus does indeed purify us from all sin!<br /><br />6. Powerful Sovereignty Of His Blood<br />“And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To Him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by His blood.” — Revelation 1:5<br />Watching the news on TV can mislead us into a gloomy and tragic outlook of our world. Ultimately the world will end with the return of our Lord Jesus Christ in glory and power. Revelation 1:7 says that “every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him.” While the Jews and the Romans conspired to execute Jesus by crucifixion, we must never forget that it was our sin that put Him on the cross, and it was His own love that kept Him there until the price for our sin was paid in full.<br /><br />In recent decades the USA and the USSR have been great nations. Now the world is talking about China as an up-and-coming power. But as Christians we must remember that we worship and serve the Sovereign Lord God. He is the supreme authority, no matter what today’s world leaders do or say. The Word of God stands above the word of any human, no matter how great their position is in history. Jesus is the Word of God and the Word of Life (Jn. 1:1; 1:14; 1 Jn. 1:1-2). It is His voice that we must listen to above all others, because He is “the ruler of the kings of the earth.” Every other voice will pass into oblivion. His will last for all eternity (Lk. 21:33).<br /><br />His Blood Shed For You<br />These are my six favorite verses pertaining to the blood of Jesus Christ. They speak of the power of His blood in relation to sacrifice, substitution, salvation, sanctification, security and sovereignty. Earlier this week, I had to visit my doctor’s office and the hospital. In both places I saw signs that said, “Giving blood saves lives.” Now of course in context these appeals have nothing to do with the life- saving blood of Jesus. These posters are merely an important attempt to get people to donate a quantity of blood for hospitals to use in the treatment of those who need blood. I have benefited from blood given. But I couldn’t help thinking, “Yes, Jesus’ blood saves lives, so I must offer it to everyone I can. Why? Because there is power in His blood!”<br /><br />If you have not yet confessed your personal sins to the one and only holy God and asked for forgiveness on the basis of Jesus’ blood shed on the cross for you, may I urge you to do so today. Tomorrow may be too late.<br /><br />By Colin Salter <br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-62766195581974331752014-05-18T10:00:00.000+01:002014-05-18T10:00:02.464+01:00Sunday Sermon: The Power of The BLOOD FROM GENESIS TO REVELATION<br />
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In The Old Testament<br />
“The voice of your brother’s blood cries out to Me from the ground” (Gen. 4:10 NKJV). That’s what God told guilty Cain right after he had murdered his brother Abel. This is the first time blood is mentioned in the Bible. The first mention of a subject in Scripture is often a significant indicator of the meaning it will have in subsequent passages.<br />
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“You shall not eat flesh with its life, that is, its blood” (Gen. 9:4). That’s what God told Noah when he had come out of the ark. This is the second time blood is mentioned in the Bible. God went on to say He would require man’s lifeblood from the hand of every man who would shed it. Thus God instituted capital punishment early in man’s history, and He has never repealed it! God immediately explained His divine reason for ordaining capital punishment: “Whoever sheds man’s blood, by man his blood shall be shed; for in the image of God He made man” (Gen. 9:6).<br />
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Leviticus 17:11 defines life as being in the blood: “For the life of the flesh is in the blood.” It also says that mankind was not to eat the blood of any animal, “for it is the life of all flesh. Its blood sustains its life” (17:14). And God pointed forward to the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ and its value when He said of blood: “I have given it to you upon the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood that makes atonement for the soul” (17:11).<br />
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In Genesis 37 Joseph’s brothers dipped his coat in the blood of a goat and presented it to their father. Jacob mourned for his son when he saw this seemingly powerful evidence. His sons wanted him to suppose that this blood was proof of the death of his beloved son, Joseph.<br />
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The above verses have established six important principles from God’s Word:<br />
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Blood that is shed cries out to God.<br />
When man’s blood is shed, it must be avenged.<br />
The life of the flesh is in the blood.<br />
Man is not to eat blood.<br />
Blood makes atonement for the soul.<br />
Blood that is presented gives a powerful message of death.<br />
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In the book of Exodus we read of blood on several occasions. Best known, no doubt, is the blood of the Passover lamb mentioned in Exodus 12. After the lamb was killed on the 14th day of the first month, its blood had to be applied to the lintel and the two doorposts of each Israelite family’s house. This blood was a sign, bearing witness that the lamb had been slain. God told His people: “Now the blood shall be a sign for you on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you; and the plague shall not be on you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt” (Ex. 12:13). On that night, when God saw this blood applied in faithful obedience to His command, He spared the life of the oldest son in those houses. He slew all the firstborn in Egypt and delivered Israel from their bondage. This deliverance was to be commemorated each year, with special stress being placed upon having the children learn why this was being done (Ex. 12:26-28).<br />
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Earlier all the waters of Egypt had been turned to blood (Ex. 7:14-21). The mighty River Nile which the Egyptians worshiped and regarded as the source of life was turned to blood, stank, and was undrinkable. So God dealt in judgment with Egypt and with the gods of Egypt.<br />
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Except for the grain offering, blood was vital to the sacrifices God commanded His people to bring. The sacrifices each spoke of a different aspect of that great sacrifice, Christ, whose blood would be shed on the cross at Calvary. The grain offering (also called meal offering, food offering or oblation depending on the translation used) depicts Christ’s holy life which glorified God but which could not save us (Lev. 2:1-16; 6:14-23).<br />
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The blood of the animals, offered as sweet aroma sacrifices, was sprinkled on the altar, and in the case of birds it was drained out at the side of the altar. The blood of the non-sweet aroma sacrifices was to be sprinkled seven times before the Lord in front of the veil of the sanctuary. It was also to be put on the horns of the incense altar and the rest was to be poured out at the base of the altar of burnt offering. There were still other regulations with regard to specific sacrifices, such as the consecration offering or the offering on the great Day of Atonement. God’s commands were very explicit as to what was to be done with the blood, for the blood was a most important component of the sacrifices. Indeed, Hebrews 9:22 tells us: “According to the Law almost all things are purified with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no remission.”<br />
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In The New Testament<br />
What we find in the New Testament is in full harmony with what we have been looking at in the Old Testament. Yet there is a most important difference. Throughout the Old Testament we read of many sacrifices – hundreds of thousands of them. Again and again it was necessary to bring more. “The Law ... can never with these same sacrifices, which they offer continually year by year, make those who approach perfect ... But in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year. For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins,” we read in the opening verses of Hebrews 10. The chapter goes on to show that “by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified” (Heb. 10:1-4,14). And in 10:19 we find that we now have “boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus.” What power there is in the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ!<br />
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Other New Testament portions agree fully with this. Peter tells us that we have been “redeemed ... with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot” (1 Pet. 1:18-19). John tells us that “the blood of Jesus Christ His (God’s) Son cleanses us from all sin” (1 Jn. 1:7). Paul speaks of “Christ Jesus, whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness” (Rom. 3:24-25). And he speaks of our “having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him” (Rom. 5:9). In Ephesians he goes on to say that “in Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins” (Eph. 1:7). And furthermore that “now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ” (Eph. 2:13). To the Colossians he also writes of this “redemption through His blood” and points out that the Lord Jesus has “made peace through the blood of His cross” (Col. 1:14,20).<br />
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The Revelation celebrates the Lord Jesus “who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood” (Rev. 1:5), and adds to this present song the new song we shall sing together to His praise when we surround the throne in the midst of which we see the Lamb standing “as though it had been slain” (Rev. 5:6). What a song that will be: “You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; for You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, and have made us kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on the earth” (Rev. 5:9-10).<br />
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The Revelation also shows us in various passages that the blood of the countless martyrs that has been shed down through the centuries will be avenged. While still exercising longsuffering at present, God is just. He will deal too with those who shed the blood of His only-begotten Son.<br />
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Another aspect of the power of the blood is seen in Revelation 12:11 where we read of saints overcoming Satan “by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.” Here we see the basis for believers invoking the blood of Jesus against demonic powers. But the other phrases of this verse show us how important it is for us to have our lives in godly order should we ever be directly confronted by satanic hosts! “The blood of Jesus” is not a magic phrase we can use to command demons at our pleasure.<br />
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When we think of the power of the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ and how precious it is to God, we certainly will not want to drink of the cup that represents His blood in an unworthy manner (1 Cor. 11:27). Our salvation and all God’s plans for the future are secured by that precious blood, shed once for all on Calvary’s cross. It “speaks better things than that of Abel” (Heb. 12:24)!<br />
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By Eugene P. Vedder, Jr.<br />
We Are Redeemed By His BLOOD<br />
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“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.” — Ephesians 1:7<br />
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The word “redemption” means “buy back” or “ransom.” In ancient times, one could buy back a person who was sold into slavery. In the same way, Christ through His death bought us from our slavery to sin. The blood of Christ is the means by which our redemption comes. The Old Testament and the New both clearly teach that there is no forgiveness without the shedding of blood. Blood here is a vivid symbolic equivalent of death. It recalls the sacrificial system of the old covenant, which looked forward to the self-sacrifice of Jesus Christ that took away the sin of the world. — The Nelson Study Bible<br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-77780251337242342972014-05-16T22:36:00.002+01:002014-05-16T22:36:36.211+01:00MTN Project FAME 7.0 Auditions - Dates and Venues (Nigeria and West Africa)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>LIBERIA</b> - Monronvia - 24th May 2014, Venue: Bella Cassa Hotel, 2nd Street, Tubman Blvd, Monrovia</div>
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<b>Sierra Leone</b> - Freetown - 30th May 2014, Venue: British Council Auditorium, A.J. Momoh Street, Tower H.I., Freetown</div>
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<b>GHANA</b></div>
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Accra - 30th May, 2014, Venue: International Conference, Castle Road, Accra<br />Kumasi - 1st June, 2014, Venue: Miklin Hotel, 15 Cedar Road, Danyame, Kumasi</div>
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<b>NIGERIA (8:00am - 3:00pm Daily)</b><br /><b>Benin</b> - 7th June, 2014, Venue: Constantial Hostel, 24/26, Airport Road, GRA, Benin<br /><b>Owerri</b> - 7th June, 2014, Venue: Newton Hotel, Plot H2, Imo Specialist Hospital Road, off Commercial Road, New Owerri</div>
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<b>Ilorin</b> - 14th June, 2014, Venue: Kwara Hotel, 9A, Ahmadu Bello Way, GRA, Ilorin</div>
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<b>Abuja</b> - 14th June, 2014, Venue: National Center for Women Development, Better Life Street, Central Area, Abuja</div>
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<b>Port-Harcourt</b> - 21st June, 2014, Venue: Viontel Hotel, Plot 96, Stadium Road, GRA 4, Port-Harcourt</div>
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<b>Ibadan</b> - 21st June, 2014, Venue: Tafo Arena, Poly Road, WAEC Junction, Eleyele, Ibadan</div>
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<b>Lagos</b> - 27th-28th June, 2014, Venue: Ultima Studio, Funke Zaniab Usman Street, (End of Admiralty Way Behind This Present House), Lekki, Lagos </div>
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-71592182572127822772014-05-15T13:00:00.000+01:002014-05-15T13:00:01.268+01:00Nigerian Army To Investigate Soldiers Mutiny In Maiduguri<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Major General Christ Olukolade</td></tr>
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The Nigerian Army says it will investigate the mutiny on Wednesday in Maiduguri.<br /><br />A statement by spokesman Major General Christ Olukolade said the inquiry will be on “the circumstances surrounding the conduct of soldiers who fired some shots today while the General Officers Commanding was addressing troops in Maimalari cantonment Maiduguri.”<br /><br />Following that incident, two soldiers confirmed to SaharaReporters that some soldiers of the 7th Division, which was established only two months ago for the war against Boko Haram, fired shots into the air at the barracks as they were being addressed by Major General Ahmed Mohammed, their commanding officer who was appointed in February. Olukolade did not name the officer concerned.<br /><br />According to the spokesman, Wednesday’s incident occurred when the corpses of four soldiers who died in an ambush while returning from patrol duties in Chibok were being conveyed to the morgue. He however assured that there is currently calm in the cantonment and normal operations continuing.<br /><br />SaharaReporers understands that the soldiers are complaining about management issues relating to the implementation of the state of emergency. Among the issues, they say their commanders have neither provided the appropriate equipment to combat the better-armed Boko Haram militants nor devised a troop-rotation system.<br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-33373464633955548422014-05-15T06:00:00.000+01:002014-05-15T06:00:17.476+01:00Borno Releases 77 Names of Chibok Girls that appeared in the recent Boko Haram's Video<br />
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•UK offers spy planes <br /><br />•Boko Haram leader an 'obscenity', says Soyinka <br /><br />•Send US forces even if Nigeria disapproves, says Senator McCain <br /><br />•FG: International operations in Chibok have begun<br /><br /><br /><br />As the 200 plus schoolgirls who were abducted by the terrorist group Boko Haram from their secondary school in Chibok, Borno State, enter their second month in captivity, the federal government has still shown no sign of coming close to recovering them from their abductors.<br /><br />Instead, since the second video on the kidnapped girls was aired four days ago, the world has been subjected to discordant tunes from government officials on whether to negotiate or not to negotiate with the terrorists to get the girls back and reunited with their families.<br /><br />The best their parents and the rest of the world have to hold on to, is the video, wherein the identity of 77 of the girls who featured in it, reciting the Qu’ran, has been established.<br /><br />In a statement yesterday, the Borno State Government restated that the exercise to identify the other girls in the video was on-going with a new set of parents, teachers and students, even as it released the names of the 23 names of girls who had been identified on Tuesday night.<br /><br /><br />The statement issued by the Special Adviser, Communications to the Borno State Governor, Isa Gusau, said: “The exercise is continuing with a new set of parents, teachers and students. The three sets of people (parents, teachers and students) were brought to Maiduguri in batches.<br /><br />“Another set is to continue the identification exercise tonight (last night) and we will get back to you (media) with any update.<br /><br />The 23 girls whose names were released are: Fibi Haruna, Laraba Mamman, Saraya Yanga, Hauwa Mutan, Deborah Abari, Hauwa Nkeki Mbalala, Rejoice Musa, Yana Joshua, Esther Ayuba, Helen Musa, Mwa Daniel, Hannatu Ishaku, Yayi Abana, Mary Ndamah and Monica Enoch.<br /><br />Others included Amina Ali, Ashe Ezekiel, Lydia Simon, Naomi Bitrus, Kawuna Lalai, Kawuna Luka, Lydia Habila and Margaret Watsai.<br /><br /><b>Britain Surveillance Planes Join Search</b><br />But as their parents continue to keep hope alive over the fate of their daughters, Britain joined the United States (US) by offering Nigeria surveillance aircraft and a military team to help with the search for the girls, Prime Minister David Cameron said yesterday.<br />“Today I can announce we have offered Nigeria further assistance in terms of surveillance aircraft, a military team to be embedded with the Nigerian army in their HQ and a team to work with US experts to analyse information on the girls’ location,” he told the British parliament.<br /><br /><br />Specialist teams from the United States, Britain, France and Israel have been sent to help in the search operation, which Nigeria’s military has said is concentrated on the Sambisa forest area of Borno State.<br />US surveillance planes have been scouring a vast swathe of northern Nigeria looking for the girls.<br /><br />Send US Forces Even if Nigeria Disapproves, Says McCain<br />In addition, US Senator John McCain, who is renowned for his straight talking charged the US military to rescue the schoolgirls, even if the Nigerian government disapproves.<br />The longtime US senator and two-time presidential candidate told US online news website, The Daily Beast, that the US should feel no compunction to withhold sending special operations forces to find the kidnapped girls – especially in a country led by “some guy named Goodluck Jonathan”.<br /><br /><br />“If they knew where they were, I certainly would send in US troops to rescue them, in a New York minute I would, without permission of the host country,” McCain said on Tuesday.<br />“I wouldn’t be waiting for some kind of permission from some guy named Goodluck Jonathan,” he declared, in reference to Nigeria’s president.<br />As he suggested last week in a CNN interview, McCain insisted that if he were US president, his administration would have prepared special forces ready to enter Nigeria if a rescue opportunity was apparent.<br />His rationale for military intervention rests with the United Nations charter, he said, since the mass abduction was akin to “crimes against humanity”.<br /><br /><br />“The United Nations Charter recognised crimes against humanity, this fits into the category of crimes against humanity, and that gives any nation the licence if they can to stop a crime against humanity, the same reason we should have if we could have freed the people at Dachau or Auschwitz,” McCain said.<br />McCain stressed that the US need not receive permission from the Nigerian government, as Abuja would give thanks to any American effort that ends up saving the young girls.<br /><br /><br />“I would not be involved in the niceties of getting the Nigerian government to agree, because if we did rescue these people, there would be nothing but gratitude from the Nigerian government, such as it is,” he said.<br />“If we rescued these young girls, it would be the high point of the [President Obama’s] popularity,” McCain said.<br />But a top Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Sen. Bob Corker, told The Daily Beast he would only advocate the use of US forces if the Nigerian government approved.<br /><br />Boko Haram Leader an 'Obscenity', Says Soyinka<br />Adding his voice in condemnation of the kidnapping of the teenagers, Professor Wole Soyinka yesterday described the Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, as an “obscenity” who is likely to be incapable of dialogue, as the government considers opening talks with the terrorists to exchange the girls for suspected criminal members of the sect held in government facilities.<br /><br /><br />Soyinka told AFP by phone from Los Angeles that Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, was “high on religion and drugs”. “For me, we are dealing with a sub-human specie,” Soyinka said.<br />“How do you dialogue with that kind of obscenity?” he asked.<br />“It is a bind for the nation because the girls must be secured,” Soyinka said, voicing sympathy for the officials who must assess the pros and cons of talking to Shekau.<br /><br /><br />Soyinka pointed out that critics of foreign intervention were showing a lack of compassion for the teenage hostages.<br />“I don't know what they are talking about,” he said. “This is a global crisis. In this situation, where we have these kinds of killers, homicidal maniacs who can go into schools and kidnap hundreds of girls... all help is welcome,” Soyinka added.<br /><br /><br />He said for the international community, given such horrifying violence, intervening is “not a favour, it is a duty”.<br />Jonathan's administration “had better be very, very careful, because people are in pain and they have been in pain for a very, very long time”.<br />If the protests continue, Soyinka said, the government “had better get out of the way”.<br /><br />Committee, Defence Minister, Security Chiefs Meet<br />Meanwhile, the presidential fact-finding committee on the abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls, Minister of Defence, Director General of National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and Inspector General of Police (IG), yesterday met behind closed-door to further strategise on the rescue of the girls.<br /><br /><br />The committee, which was recently inaugurated by President Goodluck Jonathan, is chaired by Brig-Gen. Ibrahim Sabo (rtd).<br />During the meeting, the Minister of Defence, Lt-Gen. Aliyu Gusau Mohammed (rtd), decried the mass kidnapping of the schoolgirls, adding that the “Boko Haram menace ought to have been dealt with a long time ago”.<br />The minister, according to a statement by the spokesman of the committee, Kingsley Osadolor, pledged the support of his ministry in the realisation of the committee's objectives.<br /><br /><br />Gusau was also said to have made useful suggestions, for which the committee's chairman expressed gratitude.<br />
<br />In his opening remarks at the interface with the NIA, Sabo reiterated the borderless nature of terrorism.<br /><br /><br />He emphasised the crucial role of the NIA in the fight against terror in general, and in combing neighbouring countries in search of clues that could lead to the location and safe rescue of the abducted schoolgirls.<br />In his response, Director General of NIA, Ambassador Ayo Oke, said: “The incident (Chibok abduction) has awakened a new sense of humanity and collective pain to all Nigerians and friends of Nigeria.”<br /><br /><br />The statement said Oke also briefed the committee on measures taken so far by the agency in the joint intelligence and security efforts to locate the whereabouts of the kidnapped schoolgirls and ensure their safe reunion with their respective families.<br />According to Oke, “We will not know peace until these girls are found,” adding: “We must agree as a people that this is the time to end the menace of Boko Haram.”<br /><br /><br />At the session with the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar explained the circumstances of the abduction and the immediate steps taken by the police force.<br />He told the committee members of the on-going investigations and the pursuit of leads that might assist in securing the freedom for the girls.<br />The IG also articulated perspectives on the mass abduction, which the committee members acknowledged would greatly facilitate their work.<br /><b><br />Jonathan Restates Nigeria's Appreciation</b><br />In another development, the president yesterday reiterated Nigeria’s appreciation of the support it has received from Britain and others in the efforts directed at locating and rescuing the teenage girls.<br />The president spoke in audience with the British Minister for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, Mr. Mark Simmonds at the Presidential Villa.<br /><br />In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, Jonathan said the federal government would also welcome international support for its plans for the socio-economic rehabilitation of the North-eastern states after the Boko Haram insurgency has been substantially curtailed.<br /><br />“President Jonathan told Mr. Simmonds that he looked forward to meeting the Heads of State and Government of Benin Republic, Chad, Niger and Cameroon this weekend in Paris for talks on how Nigeria and their countries can strengthen and intensify collaboration against Boko Haram and other criminal organisations.<br /><br />“If we all collaborate more, it will be easier to eradicate Boko Haram and terrorism” the statement said.<br />Simmonds reassured the president of Britain’s commitment to giving Nigeria all required assistance to find and safely rescue the abducted girls.<br />“We are keen to support Nigeria in every possible way and help you overcome the present challenges” he said<br /><br />Also yesterday, the president received solidarity calls from the Prime Minister of Algeria, Abdelmallek Sallel, and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif of Pakistan.<br /><br />The duo expressed their willingness to share their counter-terrorism experiences with Nigeria and support the on-going search and rescue operations in any possible way.<br />The president later received the United Nation’s Secretary-General’s Representative in West Africa, Ambassador Saidi Jinit.<br /><br />He told Ambassador Jinit that the federal government would welcome help from the United Nations for the coordination of a planned victims' support programme and a Victims Support Fund.<br />The federal government also confirmed that joint international operations to rescue the girls have commenced.<br /><br />The Coordinator of the National Briefing Centre on Security, Mr. Mike Omeri, who made this known yesterday in Abuja, said the technical details could not be disclosed. <br /><br />“On Chibok, international operations have commenced in collaboration with the Nigerian military. The operations are being carried out in conjunction with the Nigerian troops.<br /><br /><br />“So far, some personnel have come into the country and the effort is to complement what we are doing in terms of surveillance, intelligence gathering and other knowledge and experience sharing systems,” he stated.<br />When asked about the attack in Ran, Kala-Balge Local Government Area in Borno State, where community members were said to have attacked and killed 200 insurgents, Omeri said: “I don’t have details of the events at the Kala-Balge.<br /><br />“In any event, if that is true, it means the massive campaign that we have launched to mobilise citizens to resist these attacks is paying off.” <br /><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Complete List of 77 Names of Girls in Alphabetical Order</strong></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Abigel Bukar</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Agnes Gapani</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Aisha Lawan Zanna</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Amina Ali</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Ashe Ezekiel</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
6</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Bilkisu Abdullahi</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
7</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Comfort Habila</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
8</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Deborah Abari</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
9</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Deborah Abbas</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
10</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Dorcas Yakubu</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
11</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Esther Ayuba</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
12</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Falta Lawan</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
13</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Fibi Haruna</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
14</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Filo Dauda</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
15</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Gloria Yaga</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
16</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Godiya Bitrus</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
17</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Hajara Isa </strong><br />
<strong>(Amira 3rd Speaker)</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
18</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Halima Ali</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
19</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Hannatu Dauda</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
20</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Hannatu Ishaku</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
21</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Hannatu Nuhu</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
22</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Hauwa Abdu </strong><br />
<strong>(1st Speaker)</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
23</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Hauwa Ali</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
24</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Hauwa Bitrus</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
25</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Hauwa Isuwa</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
26</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Hauwa M. Maina</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
27</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Hauwa Mutah</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
28</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Hauwa Nkeki Mbalala</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
29</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Helem Musa</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
30</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Jummai Mutah</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
31</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Kabu Mallah</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
32</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Kawuna Lalai</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
33</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Kawuna Luka</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
34</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Ladi Jajel</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
35</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Ladi Paul</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
36</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Laraba John</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
37</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Laraba Mamman</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
38</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Luba Afga</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
39</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Lugwa Sanda</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
40</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Lydia Emmar</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
41</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Lydia Habila</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
42</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Lydia Simon</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
43</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Magret Shettima</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
44</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Magret Watsai</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
45</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Magret Yama</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
46</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Mairama Ali</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
47</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Mairama Bashir</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
48</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Mary Dama</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
49</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Mary G. Dauda</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
50</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Mary Nkeki</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
51</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Maryam Abbas</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
52</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Maryam Ali (Maiyanga)</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
53</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Monica Enoch</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
54</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Mwa Daniel</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
55</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Mwada Baba</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
56</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Naomi Bitrus</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
57</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Naomi Bukar</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
58</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Naomi Luka</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
59</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Naomi Phillimon </strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
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<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
60</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Patient Jacob</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
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<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
61</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Rejoice Musa</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
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<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
62</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Rejoice Shanki</strong></div>
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<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
63</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Rhoda Peter</strong></div>
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</tr>
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<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
64</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Rifkatu Galang</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
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<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
65</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Rose Daniel</strong></div>
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<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
66</div>
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<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Saratu Thauji </strong><br />
<strong>(2nd Speaker)</strong></div>
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<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
67</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Saraya Amos Ali</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
68</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Saraya Samuel</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
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<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
69</div>
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<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Saraya Stover</strong></div>
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<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
70</div>
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<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Saraya Yanga</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
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<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
71</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Shikta Abdu</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
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<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
72</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Solomi Pogu</strong></div>
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</tr>
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<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
73</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Suzana Yakubu</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
74</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Yana Bukar</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
75</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Yana Joshua</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
76</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Yayi Abana</strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 43px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
77</div>
</td>
<td style="width: 395px;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Zainab Yaga</strong></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Posted by Sola Ogundeko - https://www.facebook.com/solaogundeko
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-80949707775767753982014-05-12T20:00:00.000+01:002014-05-12T20:00:00.688+01:00How to build a business from scratch<br />
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<img alt="Importance of conducting research on your business" class="attachment-bigstoryimage" height="181" src="http://static.punchng.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Importance-of-conducting-research-on-your-business.jpg" width="250" /> </div>
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Any economist will tell you that the creative sector is a leading component of worldwide economic growth, employment and trade. Over the last decade, there has been a significant shift from individuals choosing to work in traditional vocations such as health care to investing in the creative sector.<br /><br />Operating a business where your intellectual capital is your golden ticket requires a calculated approach that differs from the stock standard business model. Here are five steps to establish a creative business from scratch:<br /><br />Observe<br /><br />A pitfall of the boom in the creative sector is that thousands of designers/writers/directors are entering the workplace at the same time you are. There is a solid chance that your skill will be instantly diluted once you join the industry. Graphic designers, for example, are a dime a dozen, and if you do your research you will see that becoming an interactive media designer — someone who can do graphics in addition to sound, animation and digital effects, is a more valuable skill set.<br /><br />Seek out professionals in your industry and note what they are doing, how they’re doing it and most importantly, what you can offer that is different. What does this industry need right now? What is unique about my approach that’s seldom done? These are good starting points.<br /><br />Brand<br /><br />Now that you have put your original spin on a creative role, it’s time to set up your brand. Branding is a group of ideas and approaches behind your work that must be cemented tangibly through a website and social media presence. Setting up a website can be incredibly cheap, and the beauty of this industry is that you can barter your services in exchange for others, like trading an article for a personalised logo.<br /><br />Once you have got a card, logo, business email — ideally one that matches your website — and of course, a web page, start building your social media channels. Begin with LinkedIn and enter as much information as possible. Choose one other platform (I suggest Twitter as it takes the longest to build up) and enter your information and start adding colour.<br /><br />Produce<br /><br />By colour, I mean content. You would never invite friends over for dinner only to present them with an empty table. Why would you encourage someone to explore your brand when you have got no work to show them? Social media participants are fickle; if a person is directed to a ‘Website Under Construction,’ chances are they will not head back a second time.<br /><br />In a saturated market, nothing will legitimise your business better than your actual work. Make sure you have got a few posts under your belt. I personally had 100 published articles before I felt comfortable promoting my website. Digging into your archives and revamping old work is also a simple way to produce content on your website without having to begin new projects. This third step is probably the most important and time consuming.<br /><br />Plan<br /><br />You have defined your brand and hopefully snuck in a lucrative loophole in your chosen industry. Now is the time to plan. Start by writing down a list of desirable companies, agencies and clients you would like to work with, that are in line with your offering. As a writer, I keep a list of publications and editors I will target who are likely to respond to my style.<br /><br />Dictate how much you need to earn in your first three months to keep afloat, and how many hours you’ll have to put into your business to make this happen. It is a good idea to plan for a creative slump by having an alternate and consistent stream of income or investing in a savings ‘nest egg.’<br /><br />Connect<br /><br />Start within your own personal connections on Facebook and your email contacts to find like-minded creatives who may be able to assist you or be interested in your business. A simple announcement via a status update and email directing your friends and acquaintances to your new business will lay the foundations of your following.<br /><br />Going over the industry contacts you have discovered in your observation phase, start to reach out to professionals who are at a similar stage to you in their career. These newbies are more likely to respond to your emails, and if you extend an olive branch there is a chance you could share information.<br /><br />When you have achieved a decent-sized social media presence supported by a solid website, target the industry heavyweights, but only if you are absolutely confident that you have got something substantial to bring to the table.<br /><br />—www.entrepreneur.com <br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Posted by Sola Ogundeko - https://www.facebook.com/solaogundeko
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-29288135318779576862014-05-12T19:00:00.000+01:002014-05-12T19:00:01.208+01:00Boko Haram was sponsored to smear Islam —Jingir<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Sheik Sani Yahaya Jingir" class="attachment-bigstoryimage" height="225" src="http://static.punchng.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Sheik-Sani-Yahaya-Jingir-360x225.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="360" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sheik Sani Yahaya Jingir</td></tr>
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The National Chairman of the Izalla sect, otherwise known as Jama’atul Izalatul Sunnah, Sheik Sani Yahaya Jingir, has dissociated the sect from the activities of the dreaded Islamic sect, Boko Haram, saying that the sect was being sponsored to smear the Islamic religion.<br /><br />He urged Muslims in the country to continue to preach a just and egalitarian society and to pursue peaceful coexistence that could move the country forward from its present predicament.<br /><br />Jingir, speaking to newsmen in Jos on Sunday, described as unfortunate the inability of the government to address the critical security problems confronting the country, especially in the North-East.<br /><br />He however expressed optimism that the activities of the sect would not affect the growth of democracy in the country.<br /><br />Sheikh Jingir said that the destruction being unleashed on the region by Boko Haram had taken the North generally years back in terms of development.<br /><br />“These security challenges in the country and in the North-East in particular has left the zone as the worse hit due to the current activities of Boko Haram and they are sponsored to spoil the image of Islam.”<br /><br />The Islamic cleric called on the Federal Government and the state governments to, as a matter of urgency, formulate effective policies to tackle the current insecurity in the country and also deal with the debilitating poverty and the growing number of unemployed youths in the region.<br /><br />Sheik Jingir noted that Nigerians were now under persecution in their own land and urged them not to be discouraged by the shortcomings of the leadership in the area of security.<br /><br />He also expressed optimism that the situation would soon be a thing of the past, stressing, “It will surely be a history one day.”<br /><br />Meanwhile, renowned Islamic scholar and author, Abumazeedah AbdulRauf, has described members of the Boko Haram Islamic sect as “misguided minds.”<br /><br />According to him, there is the need for Muslims to be sensitised to reading with a view to correcting the wrong impression about western education.<br /><br />But a lecturer in the Department of Islamic Law at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and Director in ABU’s Institute of Administration, Prof. Mohammed Bello, said the belief that western education is a taboo was western propaganda.<br /><br />They both spoke in an interview with journalists on Saturday in Abuja during the opening ceremony of the 4th edition of a one-week Islamic Book Exhibition organised at the National Mosque by a publishing firm, De Minaret International.<br /><br />Abumazeedah, who is the Managing Director/CEO of the company, said, “We want to mobilise Muslims and sensitise them to the habit of reading because we believe that if today everybody is campaigning for reading culture, we Muslims should be in the forefront because our religion had started on the platform of reading and this exhibition is even more important because it is coming at a time when there is a very wrong impression of the religion.<br /><br />“Prophet Muhammed never postulated mathematical theory but those who came after him developed a technique of mathematics and today, it is beneficial to the world. So, to assume that western education is a sin is indeed a thought of the misguided mind, it’s not part of Islamic thinking. And this is one of the points that we are trying to prove here like I said earlier, through this exhibition that Muslims are indeed, the custodians of knowledge.”<br /><br />According to him, the exhibition is to correct the erroneous impression that Islam is vehemently opposed to education and knowledge.<br /><br />“So we are organising this exhibition to showcase the beauty of Islam. We are having more than 25,000 collections of Islamic titles here and the works that Muslim intellectuals have done. When you see this, you will agree with me that indeed, Islam is a religion of intellect, a religion of knowledge and that is what we are trying to prove to the world.<br /><br />“Islam does not distinguish between education, there is no difference between Islamic and western education. In the past, we have among our ancestors, Muslim intellectuals who were basically mathematicians like Aljeberi, like Alberuni. These were Muslims and they were mathematicians”, Abumazeedah added.<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Posted by Sola Ogundeko - https://www.facebook.com/solaogundeko
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518464559742615812.post-91794894042135286672014-05-12T18:00:00.000+01:002014-05-12T18:00:00.310+01:00A grieving mother and a governor’s wife<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Mama Esther and wife of the Borno State Governor, Nana Shettim" class="attachment-bigstoryimage" height="224" src="http://static.punchng.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Mama-Esther-and-Shettima-360x224.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="360" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mama Esther and wife of the Borno State Governor, Nana Shettim</td></tr>
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Mama Esther’s daughter is one of the abducted schoolgirls of Borno State. She held back nothing when she met the wife of the Borno State Governor, Mrs. Nana Shettima, writes KAYODE IDOWU<br /><br />A mother’s pain, according to a maxim, is not a respecter of persons or position. This came into a full glare during a recent visit of the wife of the Borno State Governor, Nana Shettima, to the parents of the 276 schoolgirls abducted from Government Secondary School, Chibok last Monday.<br /><br />During the encounter with Shettima, one of the mothers of the abducted girls, who identified herself as Mama Esther, poured out her grief and expressed disappointment at the way the state government has so far handled the matter.<br /><br />She said, “The time we were expecting you to come, you did not come. We parents are not pleased at all. We believe that if the soldiers were sent at the time the incident occurred, the abductors would have been caught and our daughters released to us. Nothing has happened since then, today makes it the third week. Today you just came here. You are a mother like us and know labour pain. You know the pain of raising a child. You did not come to help us when we needed help the most.”<br /><br />Mama Esther went on to thank the governor’s wife for coming to visit, but noted that the girls’ mothers were not happy with the current situation, because they, the parents, had hoped that Shettima would bring their daughters back to them.<br /><br />Her first daughter, who she said is barely 16 years old, was one of the girls abducted.<br /><br />“This is a girl that does not know her left from her right; she does not know what is good for her. But now that this has happened, we do not have any choice. Whatever you think is good is okay with us. Please, I am begging you to use your good office and bring back our girls. Then, we will be happy once more. That is when we will thank you and the governor,” she said.<br /><br />In response, Shettima apologised to the grief-stricken parents for not coming earlier. She said she was also having sleepless nights because of the abducted girls, and that security issues in the state had not allowed the government to give the people the dividends of democracy.<br /><br /> “We can even sacrifice this office for peace to reign in the state. Whether as a Muslim or Christian, we believe that what has happened is destiny. Nobody can change what God has written down and you people did not elect us into office to cheat you,” she told her audience.<br /><br />She added, “Wallahi, my delay in coming to see you was never planned. I am not afraid to tell you the truth for I only fear God that created me. I must tell you that I feel very disturbed seeing you standing in front of me without your children. There is a security procedure that must be followed, that was what delayed my coming.<br /><br />“My husband has been in constant contact with your district head. I have been attempting to come every day without success because I was not given security clearance. If we come without security clearance, our convoy may be shot at. I am a mother and know how it feels; no one will want his or her domestic animal missing, let alone his or her daughter.”<br /><br />She also used the opportunity to explain her reasons for not going to Abuja to see the wife of the President, Mrs. Patience Jonathan.<br /><br />She said, “No woman in the world can withstand the thing that is happening to you. I had to sacrifice going to Abuja to be with you. On Friday, I was asked to come but could not go. My going to Abuja should not be a priority when we are all mourning and I believe I am needed more by my people and I had to send a commissioner to represent me. The Commissioners for Women Affairs and Education and the principal of the school are still in Abuja and we are always in touch.<br /><br />“I am not a sycophant and fear only God. There was an instance when my son got missing and I was so disturbed but there was this peace in me that we were going to find him. You feel helpless when your child is missing; I must tell you that I have not had proper sleep since these children were abducted. It is a collective pain, if they asked us not to go to school, how would this not affect our life? One day truth shall prevail. We are all strongly praying and we believe in God. We are at a loss, but we know God is with us. Please continue praying, we know our prayers will not go unanswered.”<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Posted by Sola Ogundeko - https://www.facebook.com/solaogundeko
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06509453394529201933noreply@blogger.com0