NIGERIAN NOTCH

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has congratulated the Nigerian Senate on the confirmation of Mr. Mark Okoye II, as the pioneer Managing Director of the Southeast Development Commission (SEDC). This confirmation is a testament to Okoye's exceptional leadership qualities and commitment to the development of the Southeast region the party said in a press release made available to this medium by Mazi Ejimofor Opara KSM, PhD, ANIPR, the National Publicity Secretary of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) stressed that as the pioneer Managing Director of SEDC, Okoye is expected to bring his wealth of experience to bear in driving the commission's mandate and fostering economic growth in the region.  His appointment he said has been hailed as a major boost to the development of the South East region, and a significant milestone in the region's journey towards economic growth and development. APGA therefore commends the Nigerian Senate for carrying out a th...

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio has urged his colleagues to rededicate themselves to the task of fixing Nigeria. He made the appeal on Tuesday in a welcome address titled: "Rising To The Greatness of Our Calling" which he read at the resumed Plenary after Yuletide and New Year break The Senate President said: "As we embark on this new legislative year, I urge us all to accommodate in our New Year resolutions a renewed commitment to the service of our great nation, Nigeria. "Let us resolve to rededicate ourselves to the task of fixing Nigeria—transforming it into the country of our dreams, the pride of Africa, and a beacon of hope for the world. "As we return to our legislative duties, we are immediately faced with a matter of utmost importance: the consideration of the national budget. "I have no doubt that, as always, we will approach this with our usual patriotic fervor and meticulous diligence. "This is not just a financia...

A devastating fire outbreak has ravaged the popular Nkwo Nnewi Motor Spare Parts Market in Nnewi, Anambra State, leaving a trail of destruction and billions of naira in losses. The inferno, which started at approximately 2am, gutted several sections of the market, destroying goods and properties worth billions of naira. Eyewitnesses attributed the fire to an electrical fault in one of the shops, which quickly spread to nearby stalls due to the highly flammable nature of the goods sold in the market. Traders and shop owners were seen scrambling to salvage what was left of their wares, while firefighters from the Anambra State Fire Service battled to bring the blaze under control. Stakeholders of the market described the incident as a "great loss" for the traders and the community at large. "We urge the government and other well-meaning individuals to come to our aid and assist us in rebuilding the market," they appealed. The fire incident has raised conce...

THE Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, also known as petrol would likely cost more as depot owners have increased prices by about 4.74 per cent. This follows the recent increase of crude oil prices, including Nigeria’s Bonny Light to $80 per barrel this week from $73 per barrel last week. Already, some depots, including Swift Depot have increased their loading prices to N950 per litre from N907 per litre while Wosbab depot also increased its price to N950 per litre from N909 per litre. Similarly, Sahara Depot increased its price to N950 per litre from N910 per litre while Shellplux, increased its loading price to N960 per litre from N908 per litre. …Details coming later

The Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide Presidency Election has come and gone with Sen John Azuta-Mbata emerging as the National President of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide. It's no longer news as well, that many stakeholders in the race have moved on. The most outstanding is Chief Fyneface Ndukwe Amaechi, who a was credible and acceptable front-runner was instrumental in making sure that what the constitution stipulated was not stalled, as he did not allow Rivers interest to taken away from them, despite all the manipulation from unfortunate elements in Rivers State.  As it was Rivers turn to present who becomes the President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo.  For this, many stakeholders have commended Chief Fyneface Ndukwe Amaechi for his unwavering dedication to supporting Ohaneze Ndigbo, demonstrating stability and passion for the Ndigbo community. His commitment to upholding the interests of Rivers State during the electioneering process has also earned him recognition and admiration...

— As Businessman, Jonas Ifinta Revolutionises Technical Education in Awgbu with New School Complex In a historic event held on January 2, 2025, philanthropist and businessman Jonas Ifinta has unveiled a two-story school complex at the All Saints International Technical College (ASITEC) in Awgbu to serve as a workshops for skills acquisition. This landmark project, fully funded and donated by Ifinta, aims to bridge the gap between theory and problems solving in Nigeria’s education system. Addressing the audience, Ifinta spoke passionately about the importance of equipping students with practical skills, noting that the absence of such training in Nigeria’s current curriculum has exacerbated unemployment.  He said “I have always been fascinated by technical skills. The major issue with education in Nigeria is that the current curriculum doesn't transfer practical skills. As a result, graduates often remain unemployed due to the absence of skills, while employers struggle ...

— As Businessman, Jonas Ifinta Revolutionises Technical Education in Awgbu with New School Complex In a historic event held on January 2, 2025, philanthropist and businessman Jonas Ifinta has unveiled a two-story school complex at the All Saints International Technical College (ASITEC) in Awgbu to serve as a workshops for skills acquisition. This landmark project, fully funded and donated by Ifinta, aims to bridge the gap between theory and problems solving in Nigeria’s education system. Addressing the audience, Ifinta spoke passionately about the importance of equipping students with practical skills, noting that the absence of such training in Nigeria’s current curriculum has exacerbated unemployment.  He said “I have always been fascinated by technical skills. The major issue with education in Nigeria is that the current curriculum doesn't transfer practical skills. As a result, graduates often remain unemployed due to the absence of skills, while employers struggle ...

The remains of Late Barrister Bennett Kamen, former Chairman of Ekwusigo Local Government Area in Anambra State, has been laid to rest in his country home at Ihembosi, Ekwusigo LGA, on Thursday, January 9, 2025. The burial ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including former Governor of Anambra State and Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi. In his speech at the funeral, Mr. Obi described Late Barrister Kamen as a selfless and incorrigible individual who played critical roles during his tenure as governor. He noted that Kamen's understanding and representation of public service aligned with his own ideals. Rev. Fr. Kizito Igwe, in his homily, reminded the mourners of the inevitability of death and the importance of living a life of love and service to others. He emphasized that loving one's neighbors and family is essential to humanity. Hon. Kamen Chuks, the first son of the deceased, while paying tribute to his father, describing him...

As the Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide Presidency Election draws near, the Igbo community is faced with a critical decision. The controversy surrounding candidates like John Mbata, whose community has reportedly renounced their Igbo roots. This has raised concerns about the authenticity of their claims to be Igbo's or to be used to undermine the Igbo community.  In a surprising twist, Mike Okiro, a former Inspector General of Police, has been embroiled in an origin controversy, with allegations that he misrepresented his roots as a Rivers State indigene, while actually hailing from Imo State. This development has cast a shadow over his candidacy. Meanwhile, Chief Fyneface Ndukwe Amaechi's profile continues to rise, as he secures endorsements from his community and beyond. The Etche people of Rivers State have thrown their weight behind his candidacy, recognizing his courage, foresight, and commitment to Igbo unity. As the election approaches, Ndigbo must carefully consider...

By Chigozie Igbo As the Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide Presidency Election draws near, the Igbo community is faced with a critical decision. The controversy surrounding candidates like John Mbata, whose community has reportedly renounced their Igbo roots. This has raised concerns about the authenticity of their claims to be Igbo's or to be used to undermine the Igbo community.  In a surprising twist, Mike Okiro, a former Inspector General of Police, has been embroiled in an origin controversy, with allegations that he misrepresented his roots as a Rivers State indigene, while actually hailing from Imo State. This development has cast a shadow over his candidacy. Meanwhile, Chief Fyneface Ndukwe Amaechi's profile continues to rise, as he secures endorsements from his community and beyond. The Etche people of Rivers State have thrown their weight behind his candidacy, recognizing his courage, foresight, and commitment to Igbo unity. As the election approaches, Ndigbo must c...