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Sgt. Cynthia Maurice Becomes Nigeria’s First Female Professional Golfer in the Military

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Sgt. Cynthia Maurice of the Nigerian Airforce has made history by becoming Nigeria’s first female professional golfer within the military. Her achievement was confirmed after she successfully completed the Professional Golfers Association of Nigeria (PGAN) sanctioned examinations at HSD Golf Club Bayelsa, held from July 14 to July 20. The rigorous exams included playing ability tests, written, and oral assessments.

Pro Emmanuel Odoh, Assistant Resident Head Professional at TYB International Golf Resort and Country Club, praised Maurice’s accomplishment as a testament to her resilience and determination. He highlighted how her journey from a 36-handicap beginner to a professional golfer serves as an inspiration for other female golfers in the military and young girls aspiring to careers in sports.

Odoh noted that Maurice’s dedication and perseverance underscore the progress in promoting gender equality and diversity within the Nigerian military. Her success not only celebrates her personal achievement but also marks a significant milestone in the integration of women in sports within the military.

Jigawa Governor Advises Against Nationwide Protest, Urges Divine Intervention

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Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi has discouraged the planned nationwide protest scheduled for August 1, suggesting it is not the solution to Nigeria’s current challenges. Speaking at a town hall meeting with various groups in Dutse, Namadi emphasized that protests alone cannot address the issues facing the country.

He acknowledged the widespread economic hardship but advised that people should turn to God for guidance and intervention rather than protesting. Namadi highlighted government efforts to mitigate the hardships, including food distribution and the recent approval for duty-free food imports.

The governor’s stance was echoed by other local leaders, including Police Commissioner Tijjani Abdullahi, who warned against any attempts to breach public peace, and Brig.-Gen. Timilere Makintosh, who praised the governor’s peaceful leadership. Additionally, the Council of Ulama Chairman, Retired Khadi Bashir Ahmad, attributed the country’s problems to moral failings and called for repentance.

Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Chairman Rev. Father Maurice Hassan and National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Chairman Abdullahi Garba also distanced their organizations from the protest, advocating for peaceful coexistence and calling on the government to address rising commodity prices.

Emirs Muhammad Hameem of Dutse and Adamu Maje of Hadejia joined in urging Nigerians to seek alternative, lawful channels for expressing grievances, reinforcing the message that the protest is not seen as a constructive solution in Jigawa State.

Peter Obi Urges Support for Dangote Refinery Amidst Government Disputes

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Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has called for strong government backing of the Dangote Refinery, emphasizing the economic rather than political significance of the project. In a series of tweets, Obi expressed concern over conflicts between Dangote Industries and government agencies, stressing that these issues affect Nigeria’s economy and the well-being of its citizens.

Obi highlighted the refinery’s potential to generate $21 billion annually and create over 100,000 jobs. He praised Aliko Dangote for his extensive contributions to Nigeria’s industrial sector, which spans over 15 industries. Obi urged the government to resolve disputes swiftly and support the refinery’s operations to address Nigeria’s fuel crisis and boost economic growth.

Obi’s support comes as the refinery faces challenges with government authorities and local oil producers. He criticized current leadership for focusing on personal luxuries rather than addressing national economic issues. Obi emphasized the need for a shift from consumption to production and inclusive, sustainable growth to alleviate the economic hardships faced by Nigerians.

CAP Commends Abubakar Bichi for Enhancing Budget Transparency and Accountability

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The Centre for Accountability and Probity (CAP) has lauded Rt. Hon. Abubakar Bichi, Chairman of the House of Representatives Appropriations Committee, for his exceptional commitment to transparency and accountability in the budgetary process.

Princess Ajibola Naomi, CAP’s Coordinating President, highlighted Bichi’s meticulous handling of the recent supplementary budget. “Bichi’s innovative approach has introduced a new level of transparency and accountability, setting a benchmark for future budgetary processes,” Naomi stated.

Bichi has been recognized for involving stakeholders, conducting public hearings, and thoroughly scrutinizing executive bills. His initiatives include public engagement, detailed analysis of budget estimates, and ensuring that the supplementary budget aligns with Nigerians’ priorities.

Naomi praised Bichi’s dedication to ensuring that every detail is scrutinized and that the executive accounts for every penny. “His leadership has changed the narrative in the budgetary process, promoting transparency and accountability,” she added.

Bichi’s committee has also leveraged technology for improved budget tracking and monitoring, providing clear and concise budget reports. Additionally, the committee has enhanced the budget process by ensuring timely submission of estimates by MDAs, conducting oversight visits, and engaging civil society organizations for inclusivity.

CAP emphasized that Bichi’s efforts have instilled confidence in the budgetary process among Nigerians. The organization urged citizens to trust in the effective utilization of the budget under Bichi’s oversight, noting the positive impact of his leadership on national fiscal governance.

Support Grows for Okonjo-Iweala’s Second Term as WTO Director General

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At least 58 of the 164 member states of the World Trade Organization (WTO) have expressed their support for incumbent Director General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala to serve a second term. This backing was revealed during a WTO General Council meeting on July 22, as noted in a statement by the world trade body.

“The African Group requests that the current Director-General make herself available to serve a second term and has proposed that the process of reappointing the Director-General should be started as soon as possible,” the statement read.

“Fifty-eight members, several speaking on behalf of groups of members, took the floor to comment and express their support for the African Group proposal. They called on DG Okonjo-Iweala to make her intentions regarding a second term known as soon as possible. Most of these members praised the DG’s hard work and her achievements during her first term.”

Okonjo-Iweala, 70, expressed gratitude for the widespread support. “Everything that I’ve accomplished, we’ve accomplished together,” she stated. She acknowledged the members’ request, emphasising that she took their call seriously and was inclined to favour it. “I will get back to members very soon regarding my intentions,” she assured.

Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and first African to lead the WTO, assumed office on March 1, 2021, for a four-year term ending on August 31, 2025. Before her WTO role, she served as Nigeria’s Finance Minister and briefly as Foreign Minister. She also had a 25-year career at the World Bank, culminating as Managing Director of Operations.

Akwa Ibom Police Rescue 10 Pregnant Women from Baby Factory, Arrest 56-Year-Old Suspect

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The Akwa Ibom Police Command has successfully rescued 10 pregnant women from a baby factory operated by a 56-year-old suspect, Eunice Eze. The Commissioner of Police, Waheed Ayilara, disclosed this during a press briefing at the Police Headquarters in Ikot Akpanabia, Uyo, on Tuesday.

Eze, who specializes in stealing babies and pregnant women from Akwa Ibom State through her agent, Ability Tom, was apprehended on July 15 at 4:30 pm. The arrest was made at World Bank Estate in Owerri, based on actionable intelligence.

“On July 15 at about 4:30 pm, based on actionable intelligence, Mrs. Eunice Eze, age 56, was arrested for running a baby factory at World Bank Estate in Owerri,” Ayilara stated.

In addition to this, the police also arrested a wanted kidnapper and his group, who have been responsible for several kidnappings and killings in the state. The police recovered a significant cache of firearms, including two AK-47 rifles, two G3 rifles, one double-barrel rifle, five magazines, and seven live ammunition. These firearms were found at a private mortuary in Ekeya, Okobo Local Government Area, being used as an armoury by the kidnapper and his syndicate.

Ayilara expressed gratitude to the state government, sister security agencies, and public members for their support and timely information that led to these arrests. He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to ensure the safety and peace of Akwa Ibom State.

Dangote Alleges NNPC Staff Involvement in Malta Blending Plant During Meeting with Lawmakers

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Aliko Dangote, the Chairman of Dangote Group, has brought forward serious allegations involving staff members of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited and oil traders. During a meeting with federal lawmakers led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Dangote claimed that some NNPC staff and traders are operating a blending plant in Malta, an island nation in Europe.

Dangote highlighted that the bad fuel imported into Nigeria has caused significant damage to vehicles. He emphasized that the quality of Dangote Refinery products is far superior to the imported ones, urging checks on fuel quality at filling stations.

“The bad fuel imported into the country has damaged many cars. I still stand by what I said. Go to filling stations, you can check the quality. That is the only way,” Dangote stated.

Dangote revealed, “We know where they blend these things. Some of the NNPC people and some traders have opened a blending plant somewhere off Malta. We all know these areas. We know what they are doing.”

Nigeria, despite being Africa’s most populous nation, faces severe energy challenges with all its state-owned refineries currently non-operational. The country relies heavily on imported refined petroleum products, with the state-run NNPC being the major importer. This reliance has led to frequent fuel queues and a tripling of petrol prices since the removal of subsidies in May 2023. These issues exacerbate the difficulties faced by citizens who rely on petrol for their vehicles and generators due to unreliable electricity supply.

Dangote’s $20 billion refinery in Lagos began operations last December, with an initial capacity of 350,000 barrels per day, aiming to reach its full capacity of 650,000 barrels per day by the end of the year. The refinery has started supplying diesel and aviation fuel to marketers, with petrol supply expected to commence in August.

During his meeting with federal lawmakers, Dangote reiterated the importance of transparency and accountability in the oil industry. He dismissed claims that products from his refinery are substandard and urged the green chamber to investigate the quality of diesel and petrol at filling stations across the country.

“The only way to resolve this is through transparency and accountability. The quality of products from Dangote Refinery is far better than those being imported,” Dangote asserted.

The allegations made by Dangote underscore the need for a thorough investigation into the operations of the oil industry in Nigeria. His call for transparency and accountability is crucial to addressing the ongoing issues and ensuring the quality of petroleum products available to Nigerian consumers

Chidimma Adetshina Faces Backlash in Miss South Africa Pageant Over Nigerian Heritage

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Chidimma Adetshina, a 23-year-old beauty queen, has been facing significant backlash after advancing to the top 16 of the Miss South Africa (Miss SA) Pageant. Born in Soweto to a Nigerian father and South African mother, Adetshina’s mixed heritage has sparked controversy among some South Africans who argue that her Nigerian background disqualifies her from the competition.

Key Points:

  • Backlash and Stereotypes: Some South Africans have resorted to harmful stereotypes about Nigerians and claim that Adetshina’s Nigerian heritage makes her not “truly South African.” A South African vlogger highlighted that some citizens are unhappy with her inclusion in the pageant’s top 16.
  • Adetshina’s Response: In various interviews, Adetshina has firmly stated that she is a South African citizen and meets all the requirements for the Miss SA competition. She emphasized that her Nigerian father does not negate her South African identity, as she was born and raised in South Africa and her mother is South African.

    “I am a South African citizen and I have met all the requirements to be a part of the Miss SA competition. The fact that my father is Nigerian does not take away the fact that I am South African; my mother is South African, and I was born and raised in this country,” Adetshina said.

Official Stance from Miss SA Organisation:

The Miss South Africa organisation has confirmed that Adetshina met all the necessary criteria to participate in the pageant. They issued a statement clarifying that all entrants’ documentation is thoroughly screened and vetted, and Adetshina, being a South African citizen, fulfilled all requirements.

  • Eligibility Requirements: According to the organisation, contestants must be South African citizens and possess a valid ID or passport. If they hold dual citizenship, they must provide documents for both.
  • South African Citizenship Act: The Act allows for citizenship by birth, descent, or naturalisation, underscoring Adetshina’s eligibility. Despite this, there is a noticeable resistance among some South Africans to people of mixed heritage contesting in national competitions.

Historical Context:

In 2001, Vanessa Carreira, born to Portuguese-Angolan parents in South Africa, won the Miss South Africa title, demonstrating that contestants of diverse backgrounds have been recognized in the past.

Conclusion:

The controversy surrounding Chidimma Adetshina’s participation in the Miss South Africa pageant highlights ongoing debates about national identity and heritage in South Africa. Despite the backlash, Adetshina remains determined, and the official stance of the Miss SA organisation supports her eligibility and right to compete.

NPF Denies Selling Falomo Barracks, Announces Comprehensive Renovation

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The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has refuted claims that any police barrack in Lagos State, including the Falomo Barracks in Ikoyi, has been sold. ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the NPF Spokesperson, clarified the situation in a statement on Tuesday, asserting that the police authority is undertaking extensive renovations of several police barracks in the state.

Key Points from the NPF Statement

  • Renovation and Redevelopment Plans: Adejobi highlighted that the NPF is addressing the dilapidated conditions of police barracks by partnering with sub-national governments and reputable developers. The aim is to transform these barracks into modern and more suitable living quarters, complete with complementary facilities and infrastructure.
  • Falomo Barracks: Specific attention was given to the Falomo Barracks, where Blocks A and B are being redeveloped. During this process, the occupants of these blocks have each received ₦2 million as a temporary relocation allowance. This payment has been made to 347 families following a validation process.
  • Nationwide Initiative: The redevelopment initiative is not limited to Falomo Barracks alone. Similar projects will be carried out across all police barracks nationwide over time. This strategic effort is part of the NPF’s commitment to improving the living conditions of officers and their families, which is a priority for the current police administration.

Clarification on Allegations

Adejobi emphasized that the redevelopment efforts were necessary due to the critical state of several police barracks. He urged the public to disregard unfounded rumors about the sale of police barracks and assured that the NPF is focused on enhancing the welfare of its personnel through these renovations.

This initiative underscores the NPF’s dedication to providing better living conditions for its officers and their families, thereby ensuring a more motivated and effective police force.

NARD Ends 5-Day Strike at ABUTH After Management Agrees to Address Issues

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The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH) has suspended its five-day warning strike. This decision came after a marathon meeting between the association and the hospital management, during which significant commitments were made to resolve the doctors’ grievances.

Dr. Ashiru Mikail, Vice-President of NARD, informed the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Zaria that the strike was called off on Monday evening, and resident doctors resumed work at 8 am on Tuesday.

Key Outcomes of the Meeting

  • Commitment to Address Demands: The ABUTH management has shown a serious commitment to addressing the demands of the resident doctors. One of the primary issues was the practice of percentage salary payments, which the management has pledged to cease.
  • Initiatives to Prevent Future Disputes: The meeting resulted in the development of robust initiatives aimed at curtailing further industrial disharmony between the association and ABUTH management.

Background of the Strike

NARD embarked on the five-day warning strike on July 22 to protest various issues, including:

  • Percentage Salary Payments: Resident doctors on the GIFMIS platform were receiving salaries as a percentage of the full amount, which was one of the main points of contention.
  • Nonpayment of Accoutrement Allowance: The strike also highlighted the nonpayment of accoutrement allowances among other grievances.

The suspension of the strike follows ABUTH management’s commitment to resolving these issues, indicating a move towards improved working conditions for resident doctors and a more harmonious relationship between the staff and the hospital

President Tinubu Submits ₦70,000 Minimum Wage Bill to House of Representatives

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally submitted a bill to the House of Representatives seeking to establish a ₦70,000 minimum wage for Nigerian workers. The bill aims to formalize the recently agreed-upon minimum wage after extensive negotiations between organized labor, the private sector, and the federal government.

In a letter read by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas on Tuesday, July 23, President Tinubu outlined the new national minimum wage provisions and the legal framework for its implementation. He urged lawmakers to expedite the bill’s passage to enable immediate implementation, benefiting Nigerian workers promptly.

How the FG and Organized Labour Reached Compromise

The submission of this bill follows an agreement between President Tinubu’s administration and organized labor unions. Initially, the unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), had demanded a ₦250,000 minimum wage. However, they reached a compromise on ₦70,000 to alleviate further hardship on Nigerians.

NLC President Joe Ajaero explained that the labor unions accepted the ₦70,000 proposal due to its immediate benefits and the provision for more frequent reviews. Unlike the previous practice of reviewing the minimum wage every five years, the new agreement allows for potential negotiations and adjustments within a three-year period.

“What has been announced in terms of the amount of ₦70,000 happened to be where we are now. But the cool thing about it is that we will not wait for another five years to come on review,” Ajaero stated. “Rather than settling on a figure that we wait for five years, it’s like we’ll have to now negotiate even two times within five years.”

Request for Amendment to the Nigeria Police Act

In addition to the minimum wage bill, President Tinubu has also requested an amendment to the Nigeria Police Act, as stipulated by section 58 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). This request was also presented in a letter to the House of Representatives, emphasizing the need for legislative action to ensure the proper functioning and modernization of the Nigeria Police Force.

By pushing for these legislative changes, President Tinubu aims to improve the welfare of Nigerian workers and enhance the operational framework of the country’s police force, thereby contributing to national stability and development.

Lagos Taskforce Captures 40 Traders for Night Trading, Causing Traffic in Ikeja

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The Lagos State Taskforce on Environment and Special Offences Enforcement Unit has arrested 40 individuals for engaging in illegal street trading at night, leading to significant traffic congestion in Ikeja. The arrests were confirmed by the agency’s spokesperson, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, who informed the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday.

The suspects had been operating makeshift shops and restaurants on Alade Avenue, Orishe, and Johnson Streets, all off Obafemi Awolowo Way, causing serious human and vehicular traffic obstructions and environmental pollution. Abdulraheem noted that the two-day night raid was led by the agency’s Chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, targeting areas where traders had placed barricades on the roads.

“They have converted streets to mini-markets and restaurants, thereby causing serious human/vehicular traffic obstructions and serious environmental pollution along those routes and adjoining streets,” he said.

The spokesperson emphasized that the suspects also violated environmental laws by indiscriminately disposing of waste and solid materials into the gutters, contributing to flooding issues in the area. He added that the raid would be a continuous exercise aimed at addressing the menace of street trading and its associated problems.

“Some of these locations serve as safe havens for suspected criminals who enjoy the proceeds of their criminal activities there. The flooding experienced in some parts of the state is also due to improper disposal of waste that clogs drainage channels. They also sell drugs indiscriminately there, which is counter-productive to the society,” Abdulraheem stated.

He appealed to other street traders and vendors to relocate to designated trading outlets and vacate the streets and inner roads to ensure the safety and convenience of the public.

Rep. Obi Aguocha Leads Minority Caucus in Call for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release

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No fewer than 180 members of the minority caucus of the House of Representatives have endorsed Rep. Obi Aguocha’s (LP-Abia) appeal for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The caucus, comprising members from the PDP, LP, NNPP, APGA, SDP, YPP, and ADC, adopted the motion during their end-of-session dinner in Abuja on Monday.

Aguocha, who represents Ikwuano, Umuahia North, and Umuahia South Federal Constituency of Abia State, made a passionate plea to the minority caucus to advocate for Kanu’s release. He urged his colleagues to take a united stand on the ongoing discourse surrounding Kanu and to seek a political solution for his release.

In his address, Aguocha highlighted the importance of a unified stance within the minority caucus, asserting that resolving Kanu’s case is crucial for national peace, stability, and unity. He called for immediate and strategic engagement with relevant stakeholders to push for a peaceful and political resolution.

Aguocha emphasized that addressing the situation through dialogue and reconciliation, rather than prolonged legal battles and confrontations, could have significant implications for Nigeria’s socio-political landscape. He expressed his belief that a political solution could enhance national integration and restore trust among various communities.

“Today, the opposition parties have taken a decisive stand on Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the planned protest, insecurity, the dilapidated infrastructure, and the economy,” Aguocha stated, underscoring the potential benefits of resolving these issues through a collaborative and strategic approach.

Ngozi Nwosu is worried that Nollywood films are no longer relatable

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**Ngozi Nwosu Reflects on Nollywood Career and New Role in ‘Broken Portrait’**

Ngozi Nwosu, renowned for her role as Peaceful Peace in the beloved 1990s sitcom *Fuji House of Commotion*, continues to make waves in Nollywood with her diverse roles and enduring presence. The 60-year-old actress, whose career spans over three decades, is now set to star in the emotionally charged film *Broken Portrait*.

In a recent interview with Pulse Nigeria, Nwosu shared insights into her long-standing career, her experiences with Nollywood’s evolution, and her preparation for her latest role. She expressed her commitment to her craft despite the challenges of the industry.

**Nollywood Journey and Industry Changes**

Nwosu described her career as a blend of work and play, acknowledging the emotional connection she has with the characters she portrays. She reflected on how Nollywood has transformed since her early days, noting the shift from VHS to modern filming techniques and the changes in production practices.

“The industry has improved tremendously,” Nwosu said, “but the collaborative process we once had, where we would thoroughly discuss scripts, seems to be less prevalent today.”

She expressed concern over the influx of producers who might not uphold the industry’s standards and the prevalence of stories that feel less authentic or relatable.

**Attraction to ‘Broken Portrait’**

Nwosu’s role in *Broken Portrait* centers around a mother grappling with her son’s addiction. She found the storyline deeply moving and felt it was a unique take on a well-trodden topic.

“The story is so emotional. You can imagine a mother fighting for the only thing she has—it’s profoundly personal,” she shared. “The film explores drug addiction from a different angle, and it was a challenge I was eager to take on.”

**On Set Experience and Personal Impact**

Describing her time on set, Nwosu noted the emotional toll the role took on her. She recounted a particularly intense scene that left her in tears and required a break to regain composure.

“Addiction affects the whole family,” she said. “Seeing a mother struggle in this context was tough, but it also highlighted the resilience of those who deal with such challenges.”

**Choosing Roles and Career Reflections**

When deciding on roles, Nwosu prioritizes strong, meaningful stories. She evaluates scripts based on their quality, the role she is offered, and, occasionally, financial considerations.

“I choose roles that make sense and contribute positively to my career,” she explained. “Even if the money is not significant, a compelling story can make a role worthwhile.”

As for her favorite roles, Nwosu emphasizes her versatility, stating that she brings dedication to every character she plays. “Despite my age and the types of roles I’m often offered, I approach each role with passion and commitment.”

Ngozi Nwosu remains a prominent figure in Nollywood, continually embracing new challenges and contributing to the industry with her rich experience and remarkable talent.

Shatta Bandle loses part of newly fixed teeth weeks after flaunting new set

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**Shatta Bandle Faces Hiccups with New Smile: Part of Teeth Lost**

Popular social media personality and self-proclaimed wealthy individual, Shatta Bandle, has encountered an unexpected issue with his newly fixed teeth. In a recent Instagram video, Bandle revealed a noticeable dent in his freshly enhanced smile, which has puzzled and amused his followers.

Earlier, Shatta Bandle had gone viral for showcasing his brand-new teeth, a major transformation that filled the gap that was a hallmark of his previous look. The procedure was performed by Dr. Louisa Ansong, the wife of Afro-Dancehall icon Stonebwoy. Fans were thrilled with his new smile, seeing it as a significant boost to his self-esteem.

However, the excitement was tempered by the new video showing the dent in his front teeth. This unexpected flaw led to a flood of reactions from netizens, with many finding the situation amusing while others were curious about how the defect occurred so soon after the dental work.

Dr. Louisa Ansong, who had previously shared her enthusiasm about working on Bandle’s smile, had planned for further stages in the procedure to complete the transformation. Despite the hiccup, she remains committed to ensuring that the final result meets high standards.

Shatta Bandle, known for his larger-than-life personality despite his diminutive stature, had previously flaunted his ‘before-and-after’ video, celebrating the new chapter in his life.

Rising sensation Litovibes taps Patoranking for party-starting anthem ‘My Way’

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**Rising Star Litovibes Drops Party Anthem ‘My Way’ Featuring Patoranking**

Litovibes, the emerging talent from Crystal Egg Records, makes a powerful return with his latest single, “My Way.” This energetic track blends Afropop, Dancehall, and Reggae, featuring the celebrated dancehall artist Patoranking.

Hailing from Edo State, Nigeria, Litovibes, born Samuel Egbeyon, developed his musical passion early in life. His talent was nurtured in the church, drawing inspiration from influential artists like 2Baba, Fela Kuti, and Bob Marley. His music is known for its authenticity, emotional depth, and relatability, positioning him as a promising force in the industry.

The idea for “My Way” came to Litovibes during a freestyle session at a lively party. He quickly recorded a demo and, recognizing its potential, Crystal Egg Records secured a collaboration with Patoranking, one of Afrobeats’ most consistent hitmakers.

“I was in high spirits, and the party vibes were infectious,” Litovibes recalls. “When I freestyled my verse for ‘My Way,’ I felt it needed Patoranking’s energy, and I was right! It feels like everything good is coming my way.”

The track, a perfect Friday night anthem, celebrates success and the joy of sharing moments with loved ones. “My Way” is the lead single from Litovibes’ eagerly awaited EP, “Second Awakening,” set to drop later this year.

Available now on all major streaming platforms, “My Way” is a testament to Litovibes’ rising prominence and his ability to energize the dancehall scene with his vibrant sound.

several mistakes by Joe Biden’s campaign team blew his presidential bid

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U.S. President Joe Biden’s decision to end his reelection campaign followed a series of strategic missteps and mounting concerns about his ability to win in November’s election or effectively govern for another term. Here are some key moments that led to Biden’s decision:

1. **Debate Performance**: Biden’s halting performance at the June 27 presidential debate against Republican candidate Donald Trump intensified doubts about his endurance. His aides initially saw the debate as a strategic advantage but underestimated the impact of Biden’s visible fatigue and disjointed responses. During the debate, Biden stumbled over his words and lost his train of thought, leading to negative reactions from reporters, voters, and Democratic officials.

2. **Illness and Travel Fatigue**: Leading up to the debate, Biden had a grueling travel schedule, flying to Europe twice and the West Coast, which left him tired. His performance was further affected by a cold, which his aides revealed during the debate, but this explanation did little to alleviate concerns.

3. **Immediate and Widespread Criticism**: Following the debate, there was a rapid escalation of calls for Biden to step down. Democratic lawmakers, including U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett and House Democrat Jim Clyburn, began to openly suggest alternative candidates. Donors also expressed their discontent, demanding a turnaround in Biden’s performance.

4. **Public and Private Pressure**: Senior Democrats and longtime allies, like former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, began questioning Biden’s ability to continue his campaign. Biden’s subsequent interviews and public appearances, including at the NATO summit, where he mixed up names, only heightened concerns.

5. **Assassination Attempt on Trump**: An assassination attempt on Trump, which he survived, galvanized Republican support and further complicated the political landscape for Democrats. Photos of Trump holding up his fist in defiance became symbolic, contrasting sharply with Biden’s perceived vulnerabilities.

6. **Health Setback**: Biden contracted COVID-19 while campaigning in Nevada, which forced him into isolation and gave him time to reflect on his campaign’s viability. This period of isolation was crucial in his decision to step down.

Biden’s decision to withdraw was ultimately influenced by the culmination of these factors, leading him to endorse Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic candidate. This move was seen as a strategic shift to energize the party and present a stronger challenge to Trump in the upcoming election.

Obama reacts to Biden’s decision to quit US presidential race

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Former President Barack Obama has praised Joe Biden’s decision to step down as the Democratic presidential candidate, calling him “a patriot of the highest order.” In his official statement, Obama commended Biden’s service and character, highlighting his deep empathy, resilience, and fundamental decency. He emphasized Biden’s achievements, such as ending the pandemic, creating millions of jobs, lowering prescription drug costs, passing significant gun safety legislation, and making historic investments to combat climate change.

Obama also acknowledged Biden’s role in restoring America’s standing, revitalizing NATO, and mobilizing global opposition to Russian aggression in Ukraine. He reflected on Biden’s efforts to steer the country away from the “chaos, falsehood, and division” of the previous administration, praising his policies and example as reminders of America’s best values.

Despite Biden’s right to seek re-election, Obama recognized the difficulty of Biden’s decision to pass the torch, noting it was surely one of the toughest of his life. He commended Biden’s love of country and dedication to public service, urging future leaders to follow his example.

Obama expressed confidence in the Democratic Party’s ability to select an outstanding nominee, believing that Biden’s vision of a generous, prosperous, and united America would be on full display at the Democratic Convention. He concluded by extending love and gratitude to Joe and Jill Biden for their courageous leadership and unwavering commitment to the nation’s ideals of freedom and equality.

Dangote dares NNPC, offers to sell $19bn refinery

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Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, has expressed frustration over the ongoing issues surrounding the Dangote Refinery. He believes that the refinery has the potential to address Nigeria’s long-standing fuel crisis, but perceives opposition from various quarters. Dangote has even offered to sell the refinery to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC).

The refinery, with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day and an estimated cost of $19 billion, aims to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported refined petroleum products, potentially saving the country around 30% of its foreign exchange expenditure on imports.

Dangote has accused local and foreign interests, which he described as a “mafia,” of trying to obstruct the refinery’s completion. Following these allegations, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) claimed that the refinery’s diesel quality was inferior to imported products, with a measurement of 665 ppm. The NMDPRA’s CEO, Farouk Ahmed, also mentioned that the refinery has not yet received a license to begin operations.

In response to these challenges, Dangote stated, “Let them (NNPCL) buy me out and run the refinery the best way they can. They have labelled me a monopolist. That’s an incorrect and unfair allegation, but it’s OK. If they buy me out, at least their so-called monopolist would be out of the way.”

Despite the controversies, Dangote remains hopeful that the refinery can play a crucial role in resolving Nigeria’s fuel issues.

Trump campaign shifts focus to Harris amid Biden’s exit

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Biden’s sudden exit and endorsement of Harris upended the race, just eight days after Trump survived an assassination attempt at a campaign rally. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump plans to highlight Vice President Kamala Harris’s ties to the Biden administration’s policies on immigration and the economy to win over swing voters in the November election.

Sources within the Trump campaign indicate a strategy to portray Harris, who is expected to become the Democratic candidate following Biden’s withdrawal, as a key figure in policies they blame for voter discontent. Trump believes Harris will be easier to defeat than Biden, stating to CNN, “Harris will be easier to beat than Joe Biden would have been.”

Trump’s campaign aims to link Harris directly to Biden’s immigration policy, criticized by Republicans for a sharp increase in illegal crossings at the southern border. Additionally, they plan to target the administration’s economic record, citing high food and fuel costs, as well as unaffordable home-buying interest rates.

“She’s the co-pilot of the Biden vision,” said a Trump adviser, emphasizing her integral role in the administration. Trump has already begun attacking Harris personally, dubbing her “Cackling Kamala” and criticizing her laugh as evidence of her instability.

Make America Great Again Inc., a super PAC supporting Trump, is shifting its focus from Biden to Harris, launching new ads in battleground states. These ads accuse Harris of concealing Biden’s incapacity and attribute negative outcomes like inflation and border issues to her.

At a Michigan rally, Trump intensified his rhetoric, calling Harris “crazy” and “nuts,” and suggesting her laugh revealed her instability. However, political strategists warn that Harris’s nomination could bring a new dynamic to the race. As a Black and Asian-American woman, Harris, 59, could energize younger voters and people of color, demographics Biden struggled to mobilize.

Democratic strategist Rodell Mollineau believes Harris’s background as a prosecutor and attorney general equips her to effectively challenge Trump in public opinion. Republican strategist Chip Felkel cautions against underestimating Harris’s appeal, noting she could attract different parts of the electorate. Recent polls show Harris tied with Trump in a hypothetical matchup, underscoring her competitiveness.

Despite potential advantages, some strategists argue that Harris’s close ties to Biden could hinder her candidacy. Jeanette Hoffman, a Republican consultant, asserts that Harris “doesn’t represent the change America is looking for.” Meanwhile, MAGA Inc. CEO Taylor Budowich stated the group is prepared for any Democratic candidate, continuing their opposition research efforts.