*FEMI SOWOOLU’S RADIO STATION, JAMZ FM SET TO TAKE OFF*

Renowned broadcaster, Femi Sowoolu, is set to redefine the ‘radio business’ in the city of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. As well as its environs.

YES INTERNATIONAL! Magazine exclusively gathered that any moment from now, the bearded gentleman who is endowed with a voice that is so unique and distinct will be debuting with his radio station, Jamz 100.1 FM.

Almost done with crossing all the T’s and dotting all the I’s, the new radio station will operate from Jamz 100.1FM House, on Plot 2, Deacon Olufemi Quadri Street, Felele Layout, off Ibadan-Iwo Expressway, Ibadan.

And with Mr. Sowoolu in charge, many are already salivating and eagerly awaiting their take off. In fact, like one Ibadan resident who is already aware of their coming told us: ‘Professionalism will take up abode there with FS as the MD/CEO – and that is why we can’t wait for them to hit us with correct ‘Jamz’ like their name rightly suggests’.

A broadcaster par excellence, Sowoolu has been around for decades, leaving quality imprints at all the broadcasting stations he’s passed through. In the area of training, for both upcoming and established broadcasters, he’s also well respected and regularly sought-after.

Miss Global Nigeria Lagos Audition Holds September 23

The Lagos audition of Nigeria's fairest pageant, Miss Global Nigeria has been slated to hold on Friday, September 23rd, 2016 at the prestigious R & A hotel located on 2 Majekodunmi street by Oshopey bus stop off Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos at 10am prompt. 

The screening exercise, according to the organizers is one of the prerequisites to choosing the contestants who eventually compete for the annual beauty competition. 

Interested candidates are expected to have pre-register or get the forms at the venue of the audition with a view to being part of the 2016 show. 

So if you're beautiful and proud to be? Then join the search for the 2016 Miss Global Nigeria Queen, you could be the one we're looking for to represent the nation at an international pageant. It's a high flying pageant supported by important personalities all over the world. 

It's going down on Friday, September 23rd, 2016 at R&A hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, get your bum shot, spag top and 6inches high heel shoes ready for the show. Register with N5,000 @ Zenith Bank Into MissGlobalNigeria Acc.No. 1012298052. Then send your details to 08099000753, 08056772666 or check MISSGLOBAL NIGERIA OFFICIAL WEBSITE 

MISSGLOBAL NIGERIA OFFICIAL WEBSITE

for more information. 

Edo 2016: Oyegun Urges Electorate To Vote For Continuity

The national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chief
John Odigie Oyegun appealed to the people of the state to vote
massively for the party's governorship candidate, Mr. Godwin Obaseki,
comes September 10th in order to consolidate the gains of Governor
Adams Oshiomhole's unparalleled achievements in the last seven and
half years.

Oyegun made the call in Benin City, the state capital while debunking
opposition claims that Oshiomhole administration did not achieve
anything substantial but robustly rich in propaganda. He questioned
the PDP's moral rights to criticise APC government in the state after
wasting the people's time and resources for ten years.

"Obviously, the PDP is suffering from crisis of confidence and
self-destruction because they had ten good years to develop Edo State
at a time the federal allocations due to the state was highest,
coupled with ecological funds that ran into several billion of naira.

"The cry that APC under Governor Oshiomhole did not fix all the roads,
Hospitals and Schools across the state by the opposition party lacks
credibility because no government can solve all the problems of the
people wholesale.

"Granted that Governor Oshiomhole made some genuine mistakes, he is
still the best we have produced since the history of this state and
region as governor and those who doubt this assertion are those who
have their memories to forget the history of our people.

"That is where continuity and solid development comes in. I am
convinced that no one is better qualified than Mr. Godwin Obaseki to
be the governor of the state after leaning the role of leadership and
governance process in the last seven and a half years under Governor
Oshiomhole's leadership", the national chairman said.

KOGI EAST IS UNOFFICIALLY THE KIDNAPPING CAPITAL OF THE NIGERIA

The rate of kidnapping in Kogi State in relative and absolute terms is unarguably the highest in the country and this makes the State easily qualify as the Kidnapping capital of Nigeria. In Kogi State, no one is safe anymore as people are kidnapped for reasons ranging from economic, political and personal grievances.Hardly a day passes in Kogi without kidnapping leaving the citizens in a perpetual state of fear and hopelessness.The disheartening tales of kidnapping for ransoms ranging from mere airtime (recharge card) to millions of Naira have become so common place as to deride even the most sinister of delinquencies. 

The situation is not evenly spread within the State. While the menace appears to be abating in the Central and Western flanks of the State, the Eastern flank seems to have established an industry and made a huge trade out of the despicable and cold-hearted disorder.  Kidnapping takes place anytime and anywhere, in places of worship, on the streets, in the hospitals, in homes and even in orphanage homes.The very unfortunate victims lose their lives while the fortunate ones are liberatedafterhuge ransoms from relatives and friends. So bad, it is now a common spectacle in places of worship for people to either give testimonies or do thanksgiving in appreciation to God for helping them through their ordeals in the hands of Kidnappers. 

Several attempts made by Eastern Kogites, mostly the  Igalas,to draw the attention of the Governments at all levels and relevant stakeholders to their plights have been either ignored, unsuccessful orstifled. From Itobe/Idah axis through Dekina/Bassa to Ankpa, thehorribleaccounts of kidnapping have become a way of life for the hapless and vulnerable citizens of Eastern Kogi who are momentarily unable to live normal lives and commute without anxiety or dissuasion.

When kidnapping berthedin Kogi State 2013, it was like a minor irritation but because it was hugely ignored it has metastasized into a flourishingtrade. Verifiably,the malady grew geometrically, notching figures hitherto unheard and unseen in Nigeria’s kidnapping history. Some say that the matter was made even worse by the wicked silence of political office holders who used the kidnappers as thugs only to dump them after securing electoral victory. Naturally, with guns and all sorts of arms at their disposal and with some cover from beneficiaries of their carnage, it has become impossible to stop them.

The first reported case of kidnapping occurred in 2013 when one Mustapha was abducted from his residence in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area, of the state. Unfortunately, like several other victims he was later found dead some weeks later. In August of the same year, the younger brother of the former governor of the state, late Abubakar Audu was abductedfrom his home in Aloma, Ofu Local Government Area of the State. In September of the same year, the bursar of the Federal Polytechnic, Idah, was kidnapped while his younger brother was killed in the process. The bursar was released after three weeks following the payment of a ransom. In February 2014, the wife and daughter of the former Chairman of Adavi Local Government, Salihu Adaviruku were kidnapped from their home. The woman and her daughter spent over three weeks in captivity before they were released after undisclosed ransom was paid to the captors. In March 2014, two sons of the former Speaker of the State House of Assembly were kidnapped from his residence in Okene and were released after two days following the payment of ransom. In May 28, 2014, Hajia Hawawu Bello, mother of the incumbent Governor of the State, Alhaji Yahaya Bello was kidnapped from her Nagazi residence in Adavi Local Government Area.She was also released after the payment of a ransom.

In 2014, the Rector and Registrar of the Federal Polytechnic Idah, Mathew Akpata andAbu Kazim were abducted within the premises of the institution. They were both released after the payment of various ransoms. One of the most dastardly acts was the abduction of an 80-year-old American Missionary, Rev. Phyllis Sortor, whichalmost resulted to an international problem for Nigeria. It took the combined effort of the Interpol and other security agencies including the DSS to secure her release. Upon her release, she was swiftly conveyed to America with aundertaking never to return to Kogi State again. Clearly, no investor or anyone who abhors pain or any form of inconvenience will ever think of investing in the State considering that the authorities appear to either be helpless or unwilling to do anything about the menace of kidnapping in the State. 
From 2015 to date, reported cases of kidnapping have soared leaving one to wonder if the Government or the Police truly exist in Kogi State. The situation of unresolved kidnappings as well as the nonchalance of the police makes one wonder if there isn’t more to it than meets the eye which is why quite a lot of people feel the police must have been compromised and in fact are benefitting hugely from this menace. 

The rate of kidnapping is so alarming that the Igala risk losing a whole generation of youths that have taken to kidnapping as a means of livelihood and have in fact formed unions, organisations and associations to train interested, unengaged, unemployed youths most of them graduates up to the Masters level. Little wonder the level of sophistication that they kidnappers bring to their operations and management.

While the frustration of victims,  their relatives and friends is understandable, it must be put on record that the ill-equipped police force is doing all it can within the limits imposed by equipment and well-trained man power.  Just last month, the Nigeria Police arrested three members of a notorious gang involved in kidnapping people in various parts of Kogi State.A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, said the suspects were arrested at Egume and Anyigba Towns in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State were they have been terrorising the citizens.

It stated that the operatives were led to the hide-out of the gang by a leader of the gang, who identified himself as Ibrahim Nasarawa.Nasarawa was said to have led the police officers to the place where a man identified as Edward Abutu Amedu was held captive.The names of the arrested kidnapers are: Ojonimi Negedu, Awodi Ezekiel and Michael Sule. 

The Police in Lokojathis year also rescued three students of the KogiState Polytechnic kidnapped during a Christian fellowship programme. While in captivity, he said, their abductors called their parents and relations to demand a N20 million ransom for their release. The students were rescued after spending three days with their abductors. 

Also, two months ago, the police Command in Lokoja paraded 23 suspected kidnappers arrested from Ejule, OfuLocal government area of the state. Six guns, including AK47 rifles, locally made guns, bullet proof vests, charms, ammunition, weeds suspected to be Indian hemp and a Ford Galaxy bus with registration number Oyo AH 5095 HK were recovered from them.

Nonetheless, no fewer than 1000 persons have been kid¬napped with various ransoms paid, without any serious arrest let alone a visible determination to eradicate the crime. Where there have been arrests, the abductors are soon set free to return to their “trade” and even hound those who gave information about them to the authorities. 

The kidnappers live in our societies, communities, towns and villages and the truth is most of them are known. These communities are manned by community leaders, religious leaders and traditional leaders and it is surprising that everyone is acting as if the kidnappers are either ghost or from outer space. Everything considered, the unabashed nature of the kidnapping menace in Kogi East is a stirring indictment of the leadership of the Eastern flank of the State and reveals the “I-don’t-care”attitude and the “me-myself-and-I” syndrome of the leaders. Ironically, even the leaders have been highly impacted by the strings of kidnappings as they and their relatives have become prime targets for the abductors.
Piqued by the incessant rate of kidnapping, the administration of Governor Idris Wada, the State Government placed N5m reward for anyone who volunteered information towards the arrest of any kidnapper who had laid siege to the State. 

The rate of kidnapping in the state has reached its crescendo. If nothing is done, the battered image of the State will plummet from bad to worse. No one is safe. Fear reigns all over the State to the extent, at a point, the State Commissioner of Police was rumoured to have been kidnapped 
The Governor, whoseMother was a victim, said imme¬diately after his inauguration on January, 27,that he would swing into action to arrest the crime rate in the State through an effective mobilization of the security agencies in the State as well as through a strategic alliance that makes crime unattractive in Kogi State.  That is yet to be seen in the face of rising anxieties about the escalating rate of kidnapping in the State. 
At the moment, there is intense apprehension and palpable fear so much so that it is more now an issue of when and not if there would be another victim. Individuals in the state now live in fear as they and their family members are the target of the kidnappers, who hold their victims and use them to negotiate for huge ransoms. Every victim’s family always pays huge sums as ransom to secure the release of their loved ones making the “trade” lucrative for the perpetrators and co-travellers which include the police, vigilante group and traditional leaders.

Ahmed Administration Open to Constructive Criticism '

The Abdulfatah Ahmed’s administration in Kwara State has restated its openness to constructive criticism and inclusiveness in line with the tenets of democracy and provisions of the law.

 

In a statement by the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the State Governor, Dr. Muyideen Akorede, the administration stated that such criticisms by individuals and groups must, however, be based on facts and should not injure the reputation of individuals and organizations.

 

According to the statement, the State government believes in the rule of law and will not harass any individual or group that criticizes it within the ambit of the law.

 

While emphasizing that this position is not partisan, the administration stressed that individuals and organizations that feel injured by public statements by any individual or group have a right to seek redress under the law. 

 

It also noted that while the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria guarantees freedom of expression, the same law frowns at incitement, libel and other actions capable of injuring the reputation of others or misleading the public.

 

Additionally, the statement noted that any individual or groups that circulate unverified information or preposterous claims may be invited by the appropriate security agencies to verify such claims.

 

The administration said it will continue to encourage dialogue and feedback from the people, adding that it is on record that the Governor Ahmed’s administration has pursued the policy of openness and transparency since its inception and remains committed to those values.

 

GTBank Drives Mobile Banking With *737* Code

Guaranty Trust Bank Plc (GTBank) is giving innovative banking a priority. The *737* mobile banking code emerged out of the need to meet and exceed customers’ expectation. It is a mobile channel, which enables the bank’s customers to conveniently perform third party transfers to both GTBank and other bank account holders in Nigeria via mobile phones. This is done by dialing the right code with details of the amount and account number of the beneficiary, writes 

Mobile payment is where the world is heading. Financial institutions with foresight on the future are redefining their commitment to electronic payment, churning out products and services to serve customers better.

For Guaranty Trust Bank Plc (GTBank) it is the right way to serve the customers better. The lender unveiled the Bank *737* platform to help deepen its mobile banking, to strengthen its leadership potentials in the mobile banking space.

For GTBank, Bank *737* is just a creativity that emerged out of the box. It is an expression of outstanding intuition, which only very few brilliant innovators can attempt. It is also one of the benefits of the cash-less banking, which was one of the biggest news that hit the sector in January 2012.

The objective, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) said, was to change the cash-driven economy and reduce the rising cost of banking operations. The policy is also designed to promote financial intermediation, financial inclusion, minimise revenue leakages, eliminate robbery and encourage e-payment. The coming of cashless financial system has indeed, given great opportunities to institutions that possess the innovative instincts to break the bricks. Ordinarily, one would not imagine that financial transactions could be done without one inching close to any banking hall.

GTBank’s Group Managing Director/CEO, Segun Agbaje, has consistently told the bank’s customers that Bank *737* is an innovation whose time has come. He was not joking when he told his customers that people might not have any need to go into the banking halls for anything, anymore because they can stay in the comfort of their homes and carry out banking transactions.

To the bank chief, when the electricity challenges are finally settled, more would come in the way of innovation and that is the time a full classification of the efficiency of the core financial institutions would be known. The current bubble that greeted the fortunes of the bank could not be unrelated to the level of innovation that has trailed the bank’s creativity over the years, like ‘licensing’ a new bank, which runs on phones.

That was why Agbaje could stand up anywhere and tell a motley crowd of GTBank stakeholders that their bank would make a whopping N125 billion profit after tax, some N30 billion higher than its current record, in its 2016 financial activities without fuss.

The bank, which prides itself as not really affected by the backlash of the Treasury Single Account policy (TSA), is greatly optimistic that it has not been a public sector bank and would continue to innovate to find a flourishing middle ground for its more than seven million customers in the country. He described the 2015 financial year as really a very bad year, “a very difficult year, Credit Rediscount Rate(CRR) went up to 34 per cent, Commission on Turnover (COT) was totally down and forex got so bad. “We are creating a bank where you do not come into the bank to do anything. We are leveraging technology to take people out of the banking hall.

“You are going to do most of your banking activities today without coming to the banking hall. We cannot achieve inclusive banking by building more branches, but by providing more enabling platforms to get people do more, and that is where banking is going,” Agbaje said.

While pouring encomium on his staff, the CEO explained that his bank is not excited about any form of merger and acquisition as his bank has planned to grow organically.

He saw a lot that could be done to attain the desired height even as he would want the bank to do any good business that could add good value to the economy. He also saw agriculture as a sector that needed a lot of push, but was quick to indicate that agriculture loan books did not grow fast even as the medieval industry remained key to the growth of the economy. There is no doubt that Agbaje is an apostle of gradual and careful growth.

With his bank’s current financial report, Agbaje looks good to keep the best result among all the banks for the 2015 year, considering the fact that banks whose business prospects look as good as that of GTBank may have reported far less performance for the period. This explains the progressive plan of the bank to remain on top as the most profitable bank within the period in review.

With a gross income rolling over N300 billion, there are clear indications that the careful spending pattern the bank has adopted will further offer it some more profit advantage. This may even grow in double digits as its new IT platform will usher a new cost-cutting mechanism, as less emphasis on new branches can really add up as new gains.

Agbaje feels that the internet and telephone banking platforms are becoming very successful. A good size of the youth, according to him, is in it and they are enjoying the blitz.

Mike Murdock, Esther Ajayi Set To Storm Lagos For ‘Excel 2016’

....As Prophet Israel Oladele (Genesis) Set To Light Up Lagos With ‘Excel 2016’

Come September 11, 2016, the city of Lagos would be whirling in a spiritual frenzy as prominent ministers of God from across the globe would be storming Grand Ballroom, Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island in Lagos at an event tagged ‘Excel 2016.’

The event, which is targeted at praising God, performing wonders and inspiring participants to greatness will see ministers of God such as Dr. Mike Murdock, Rev. Mother Abimbola Esther Ajayi, Lady Grivelin Tanzarella, Bishop Ceirion Dewar (all from United Kingdom) and a host of others preaching and performing wonders.

Also expected at the event are artistes like Lanre Teriba a.k.a. Atorise, Lara George, George Audu Sax and other talented musicians who will be performing. 

According to the host, Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, the Shepherd-in-charge of Genesis Model Int’l, a parish of Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), the event, which is a yearly event, is designed to further draw people to God and expand people’s frontiers.  

He said as many, who will attend the programme, God will enlarge their coast, adding that they would never experience limitation and stagnation.

At the moment, interested participants are booking their seats via www.theexcel.com.ng.

The progromme is scheduled to start by 2pm and end 9pm.

Read What Gov Aregbesola Told The People of Osun About President Buhari's Visit Today

Text of State Address of Governor Rauf Aregbesola to the  People of the state of Osun on the Visit of President Muhammadu Buhari to the state on Thursday, September 1, 2016

My good people of Osun,

Once again, I congratulate us all on the 25th anniversary of the creation of our state, The State of Osun. Last Saturday we celebrated this milestone at the Osogbo City Stadium where 4,000 wonderful children treated us and our guests to breathtaking callisthenics display. 

In this spirit of celebration, I am most pleased to inform you that your president, our president, President Muhammadu Buhari will be visiting us on Thursday September 1, 2016. During his visit, he will commission the ultra-modern, newly constructed, Osogbo Government High School. 

President Buhari has visited us in Osun before. He was here during the governorship campaign of 2014. He was here also for my second term inauguration and was here during his own presidential election campaign last year. Osun, therefore, is one of the states he has visited more often. This is a demonstration of the esteem to which he holds us.

His visit here this time however, is as your national leader and president. It is like no other visit. 

President Buhari was elected because you voted for him. You were part of the making of this history; the first time that a progressive leader would be elected president in this country.

He is also the symbol of the political alliance between the North and the West that rescued our country from brigands and crooks.

I am asking therefore that you all come out to welcome and honour him. We are Omoluabi, the epitome of virtue. One of the hallmarks of Omoluabi is being hospitable. We are going to demonstrate this to the president and his entourage. You will give Mr President an opportunity to have a good impression of you. Please put up your best performance as Omoluabi and give the president a rousing welcome. 

President Buhari was elected at a turbulent period in the nation’s history but he has given a good account of himself and has not let down the people who voted for him or the progressive platform under which he contested. 

He is a patriot par excellence and a man of integrity. In one year of his administration, he has recovered trillions of naira from the crooks that ruled Nigeria for a decade and a half and is making them to give account. He is returning integrity to government and positioning it to function again as the agency of the people for providingt good government. He needs our understanding and support and we are going to give him.

It is true that reform and change often come with bitter pills. But I want to assure you that Mr President and his team are working round the clock to ease the pain of the people and usher in the season of prosperity and abundance.

His coming to Osun is significant for us. This is the first time a president of our own making is coming to us. This visit will provide us the opportunity to discuss areas in which the federal government can be of assistance to us.

Please join me on Thursday morning to welcome Mr President to Osun. I am calling on women and their groups, market women, traders, artisans, workers, teachers, students, transporters, drivers, commercial motorcyclists, employers of labour, organised private sector, the business community, non-governmental organisations, community based organisations, youth organisations, student organisations, traditional rulers, community leaders, religious leaders, security agencies, men and women, young and old. Let give honour to whom honour is due.

I thank you. A ku odun, a ku iyedun; odun a yabo fun wa o.

Osun a dara!

Wild Jubilation as Nigeria achieves 5,000 mega watts of electricity for the first time ever

The management of Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), said in Abuja on Wednesday that it had attained new peak of 4,810.7 megawatts of generated electricity.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Managing Director, System/Market Operation of TCN, Mr Dipak Sarma and given to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Shame of a nation.

BREAKING!!! AERO CONTRACTORS SUSPENDS FLIGHT OPERATIONS

BY SAHARAREPORTERS, NEW YORK

After over five years of been in murky waters due to the diversion of funds and inflation of aircraft price by its the management, Aero Contractors has finally announced its plans to suspended flight operations from tomorrow, Thursday, September 1, 2016.

The airline, which was taken over by the Asset Management Company of Nigeria (AMCON) Saharareporters gathered took the decisive decision when its current management led by Capt. Fola Akinkuotu as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), could not rescue the airline from going further down.

A source close to the airline confided in our correspondent today that AMCON debt in the troubled airline has grown to N20 billion from the initial N11 billion in 2011 when AMCOM took it over.
The source said that with the initial N14 billion, AMCON had 60 per cent shares in the airline and with the current N20billion, the source said AMCON had completely taken over the running of the airline and decided to liquidate it.

Besides, the source noted that the Federal Government through AMCON had engaged the services of a reputable accounting firm to undertake a forensic audit of the airline's accounts in the past five years and eventually liquidate it.

The airline has over 1,000 staff including engineers and pilots. The airline before 2011 crisis and AMCON take over, had about 18 aircraft and multiple helicopters, but as at July this year, the fleet has depleted to only two aircraft.

The source added that part of the documents used for audit of the airline and its eventual collapse were submitted to AMCON by two leading industry unions; the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) and the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) who had exposed some shady deals in the airline in recent times.


The documents submitted to the government by the unions alleged that the immediate past management and board members of the airline who are predominatly members of the Ibru family contributed in no small measures to the deplorable condition of the airline.


The unions purported further that Oceanic Capital, a consultant to the airline acquired seven planes in which only six were delivered and leased them back to Aero through Oceanic Leasing Company of at $12m each.

But, the unions said that rather than the $12m claim by the Oceanic Capital, the website of the aircraft firm, Arizona where that the aircraft were purchased for $4m each.

The documents used against the management by the government added that the past administration paid $250,000 twice in favour of one "Bayo" for negotiation and finalisation with AMCON, which also reflected on its invoices as a general vendor for consultancy fees.


On the suspension of flight operations, Akinkuotu said the development was part of the strategic business realignment to reposition the airline and return it to the part of profitability.

Akinkuotu in a statement by the airline’s media consultant, Mr. Simon Tumba said the business decision, which was a result of the current economic situation in the country, has forced some other airlines to suspend operation or outrightly pull out of Nigeria.

In the case of Aero, Akinkuotu said the airline had faced grave challenges in the past six months which impacted its business and by extension scheduled flight operations. These factors, according to him are both internal and external environmental factors that have made it difficult for the leading airline to continue its scheduled services.


He said during the period under review, Aero, which was hitherto revered for its safety, timeliness among other virtues witnessed epileptic operations and services to public that are caused by non-alignment of fundamental issue of the business, which in some cases have been frustrating and embarrassing to all parties including staff, customers and indeed all stakeholders.

As part of its resolve to ensure the airline survived unlike most other carriers that experienced short life span in the country, AMCON had appointed Mr. Adeniyi Adegbomire SAN as Receiver Manager on February 6, 2016, with the aim of turning the airline around.

Since AMCON's intervention in Aero Contractors in 2011, it has provided support for the airline to meet working capital requirements and fleet expansion. These were to ensure that the airline remains a going concern providing services to various clients and the general public.

Unfortunately, the operating environment within and outside the airline have hindered any possible progress, especially in the last six months when the Naira depreciated against the dollar thus making it impossible for the airline to achieve its operational targets.

With these realities coupled with protracted engagements with all relevant stakeholders, the Management of Aero has strenuously reviewed and assessed options and opportunities on ensuring viability, safety, and sustainability of operations during the period with a lot of sacrifices.

“The impact of the external environment has been very harsh on our operational performance, hence management decision to suspend scheduled services operations indefinitely effective September 1, 2016, pending when the external opportunities and a robust sustainable and viable plan is in place for Aero Contractors to recommence its scheduled services.

The implication of the suspension of scheduled services operations extends to all staffs, directly and indirectly, involved in providing services as they are effective to proceed on an indefinite leave of absence during the period of non-services,” the Chief Executive Officer stated.

He added that “We are aware of the impact this will have on our staff and our highly esteemed customers, hence we have initiated moves to ensure that we can return to operations within the shortest possible time, offering reliable, safe and secure operations, which the airline is known for.”

As reported 

Ekiti's anti-grazing law: Gani Adams throws weigth behind Fayose

Going by the wicked records of Fulani herdsmen who have turned the clean and clear rivers of their host communities in the southwest area of the country into rivers that flow with human blood, the action of Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose and the state House of Assembly to pass the anti-grazing bill in the state is highly commendable.

Family Hosts One Year Memorial For Ambassador Deinde Fernandez

The first year memorial of Chief Anthonio Oladeinde Fernandez, Ambassador Plenipotentiary and Nigerian billionaire, Antonio Oladeinde Fernandez, has been fixed to hold this week. His first child, Chief (Mrs) Olateju Phillips, the former Lagos Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, will be hosting a private Mass in his honour. The  event comes up on Thursday, September 1 , 2016, at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Catholic Mission Street, Lagos Island.

However, the family is also planning to host a grand reception party in Lagos, later this year.

It will be recalled that Ambassador Fernandez died on Tuesday, September 1, at exactly, 6:05 pm, in a private hospital in Brussels, Belgium. He was aged 86 years. 

Fernandez was later buried on Friday, 18 September, 2015, at the Cimetiere d’Ixelles, Chaussee de Boendael, 478, in Brussels.

Ambassador Fernandez, the Baron of Dudley, was born in Lagos in August 12, 1929, to the famous Olumegbon royal family of Isale-Eko, Lagos State. He held various titles during his lifetime. Notable among them are, Bajiri of Lagos, Woye Ileri of Ile-Ife, Garzan Fulani of Kano, Grand Officer of the National Order of the Leopard, Grand Officer of Mono Order, Commander of the National Order of the Merit of Gabon, Officer of the Order ofQuissam Alaouite, Grand Officer of the National Order of the Merit of the Central African Republic, and many others.

He is survived by nine children - Olateju Phillips, Olugbemisola Fernandez, Tony Fernandez, Akintokunbo Fernandez, Titilayo Unzicker,  Adekoyejo Fernandez, Oyinkansola Fernandez, Atinuke Fernadez and Abimbola Fernandez

IMAGINE! INEC Staffers Indicted In Diezani Bribery Scandal StillReceive Salaries

All staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) are still working and receiving salaries. 

Findings revealed that none of the staff, who the EFCC accused of receiving various sums of money to influence that last general in 2015 are still working with INEC.

IT’S OFFICIAL! FUNKE AKINDELE IS MARRIED

Star actress,  Funke Akindele walked down the aisle on Tuesday, 23, August, 2016 with her beau, Abdulrasheed Bello in London, United Kingdom at a quiet wedding witnessed by immediate family members, the best man, maid of honour,  and friends with strong ties. 

Princess (Dr.) Toyin Kolade, Governor Aregbesola, Ambode, Others To Storm Ijesa Day Celebration

Top personalities from all works of life will grace the second edition of Ijesa Day, a celebration of the diverse cultures of Ijesaland holding in Lagos State on Sunday, September 18. Ijesa Day, a celebration which has turned a reference point since it commenced in 2015, will hold at Anchor Event Center located at 1 Registration Close, off Lateef Jakande Road, Ikeja.

No Crisis in Kuje Prison

The Controller of Prisons FCT Command, Daniel Odharo has confirmed that there was no crisis in Kuje Medium Security Prison. 

ntel unveils 2 for 3 promo, delights subscribers with unlimited data..... promises to unveil more 4G/LTE devices

·     ............  Port Harcourt to launch soon

 NatCom Development and Investment Company “NatCom” (trading as ntel) has unveiled a two for three data promo for customers who want to enjoy more data for less on its 4G/LTE Advanced network.

Juliet Ibrahim becomes Brand Ambassador of Fero Mobiles

                                    

It's another feather in the cap of Juliet Ibrahim, the Actress who is on the search for 'The Perfect Assistant' hinted this morning that she's snagged a deal with Fero Mobiles a brand focused on providing aesthetically beautiful devices with best-in-class features.

Herbalists take over Ondo APC Secretariat in Akure.

This is no joke,ahead of primary election, Ondo APC deployed Ogun the God of iron to safeguard party's secretariat.

AU, AFRIMA Jury unveil AFRIMA 3.0 Nominees list

The African Union and the 13-man Jury of the All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, have unveiled the Nominees List for the 2016 edition of AFRIMA, the continents leading music awards.
The highly anticipated Nominees List for the 2016 awards tagged AFRIMA 3.0. was announced to the world media on Monday, August 22, at the Protea Hotel, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos with live online broadcast. In attendance were officials of the African Union Commission, members of the AFRIMA Jury, members of the International Committee of AFRIMA, past AFRIMA winners and nominees, media executives and other stakeholders in the creative/entertainment industries of Africa.

Standard Bank predicts increased M&A activity in African telecom, media and technology.

Standard Bank, Africa’s largest bank by assets, is partnering with international news and events provider TMT Finance for the inaugural TMT Finance Africa Conference 2016, which is holding in Lagos and is bringing together the leading decision makers in African telecoms, media and technology (TMT) to Lagos on September 20, 2016http://www.tmtfinance.com/lagos/

Lagos Preaches Love Lagos Campaign At Nothinghill Carnival

LAGOS ROCKS NOTHINGHILL CARNIVAL

...As Love Lagos Campaign Peaks In London



The sound and sight of Lagos will on Monday dominate the popular Nothinghill Carnival in London as the #LoveLagosWeekend campaign enters Day three.

Lagos Issues 14-Day Ultimatum To Ikoyi, Lekki, V/I Occupants

LAGOS READS RIOT ACT TO OWNERS OF ILLEGAL STRUCTURES, STREET HAWKERS IN IKOYI, V/I, LEKKI

…Issues 14-Day Ultimatum

The Lagos State Government on Sunday read the riot act to all the owners of illegal structures, shanties, street hawkers and those who have converted walkways into trading points and food courts in Ikoyi, Victoria Island and the Lagoon Front of Lekki, just as it issued a 14-day grace period to remove such illegal structures.

RRS Arrests 'IBB' Of Pickpockets In Oshodi and 20 Other Suspects

The operatives of Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of Lagos State Police Command, have arrested a self-acclaimed Chairman of pickpockets in Oshodi, Ibrahim Kasali, and 20 other suspects alleged to be involved in stealing and robbing innocent members of public in the area.

The raiding, which took place at about 4:30 a.m. and ended at 6:35 am, early hours of Friday August 26th, 2016, witnessed the operatives combing Mosafejo, Bolade, Oshodi Oke, and Oshodi Under Bridge, arresting the hoodlums and social miscreants waiting for early rush to pickpocket passers-by and passengers.

The suspect who is popularly known as Ibrahim Babangida of Oshodi, nabbed during the operation while being chased by passengers of a bus which he boarded to pickpocket.

It was gathered that Kasali is feared by his colleagues for his ruthlessness and popularity. “some of his colleagues earlier arrested gave him out as their leader, and that he is the one that goes around to collect items stolen or snatched from passers-by to sell and share the proceeds to all of them”, our source added.

Kasali, the source noted has been to prison four times while one of his accomplices also arrested, Ibrahim Yusuph, 18, from Ogun State, was just out of prison for the eighth time.

Upon completion of preliminary screening, four out of 21 arrested suspects, who could provide satisfactory information about their identity, were released. 
Amongst the suspects arrested were, Bello Fatai, Oladimeji Ajisafe, Hassan Adeyemi, Jubril Olamilekan and Babalola Ahmed. Others were, Junior Vincent, Rilwan Oyinsola, Sadiq Taofeek, Kazeem Taiwo, Mutiu Rasheed, Ayodele Adeeko and Sola Omonije to mention but a few.

While confirming the arrest, the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Superintendent of Police, SP Dolapo Badmus, re-assured people of Lagos, of maximum security in place in the state, adding that the suspects would face the full wrath of law.

The suspects have been transferred to the Lagos State Taskforce on Environment for prosecution.

Gbenga Daniel's Son Starts Foundation For Disabled

The son of the former Governor of Ogun State and Chairman Kresta Laurel Limited, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Adebola Daniel has begun a foundation to press for equity and fairness to the physically disabled individuals in Nigeria. 
In a statement made available to this newspaper, Mr. Adebola reiterated the need to end discrimination against people living with disabilities in the country.

Why Yoruba Leaders and South West Governors Should Support DAWN Commission-Gani Adams

The National Cordinator of Oodua People’s Congress, Otunba Gani Adams has appealed to leaders of South West including the Governors, corporate bodies and individuals to give adequate support to programs and policies of the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN Commission)
DAWN which was established in 2013 is the coordinating institution pursuing Southwest Nigeria regional integration agenda.