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“Illness and Surgery Cause Delay: Tems Opens Up About Challenges Faced in Releasing Debut Album”

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Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, known professionally as Tems, recently shared with the New York Times the challenges she faced in releasing her debut album. She revealed that a “serious illness,” which she chose not to specify, led to the postponement of her album release in 2021. This illness necessitated surgery and a six-month recovery period.

During this time, instead of her debut album, Tems released her sophomore extended play (EP) titled ‘If Orange Was a Place.’ The setback in her health became a source of inspiration for her new music, which she described as being about embracing life as a warrior.

In her own words, Tems expressed the essence of being a warrior: persevering despite obstacles. She metaphorically likened it to continuing to fight even if one’s leg is cut off, symbolizing resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Despite the challenges, Tems is pushing forward with her musical journey. Her highly anticipated debut album, titled ‘Born In The Wild,’ is set to be released on June 7. Additionally, she is embarking on her first headline world tour, commencing in June.

Tems’ openness about her health struggles and the delays in her album release not only adds depth to her artistry but also showcases her resilience and determination to overcome obstacles and continue pursuing her passion for music.

INTERMITTENT FASTING COULD INCREASE THE LIKELIHOOD OF CARDIOVASCULAR DEATH

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A recent study has indicated a potential link between intermittent fasting and an increased risk of dying from heart disease.

Intermittent fasting, a diet regimen involving consuming all food within an 8-hour window and fasting for the remaining 16 hours, has gained popularity as a method for weight management.

Presented at an American Heart Association meeting in Chicago by researchers from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, the study analyzed dietary habits data from 20,000 adults in the United States spanning from 2003 to 2018.

Lead researcher Victor Zhong revealed that individuals who restricted their eating to an 8-hour daily window had a 91% higher risk of death from heart disease compared to those with a 12-16 hour eating window.

Zhong noted, “We were surprised to find that people who followed an eight-hour, time-restricted eating schedule were more likely to die from cardiovascular disease. Our research clearly shows that, compared with a typical eating time range of 12-16 hours per day, a shorter eating duration was not associated with living longer.”

The study also discovered that this risk extended to individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, with those following the eight-hour eating schedule facing a 66% increased risk of death compared to those with a longer eating window.

Interestingly, time-restricted eating did not demonstrate a reduction in the overall risk of death from any cause. However, there was a favorable association for individuals with cancer, as those consuming food for over 16 hours daily showed a lower risk of death from the disease.

Zhong emphasized the need for further research to better comprehend why time-restricted eating might negatively affect heart health.

Christopher D Gardner, a professor of Medicine at Stanford University, commented, “Overall, this study suggests that time-restricted eating may have short-term benefits but long-term adverse effects. When the study is presented in its entirety, it will be interesting and helpful to learn more of the details of the analysis.”

However, it’s worth noting a 2021 study that suggested intermittent fasting could improve measures of cardiometabolic health such as blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol levels.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION REGARDING AQUAGENIC URTICARIA

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Water, often celebrated as life’s essential element with the enduring saying “water has no enemy,” can, paradoxically, trigger discomfort and irritation for certain individuals upon contact with their skin.

You may have encountered someone experiencing intense itching or redness after bathing or touching water, prompting curiosity about the cause. This phenomenon is a skin condition known as aquagenic pruritus, which, despite its prevalence, remains largely undiscussed, leaving those affected unaware of its nature.

Aquagenic pruritus manifests as severe itching shortly after exposure to water, without visible symptoms like hives or rashes. Symptoms arise within minutes of water contact and can persist for an hour or longer, depending on severity. Any water temperature or type, including rainwater, can trigger this condition, with rainwater being the most common culprit according to research.

The exact cause of aquagenic pruritus remains elusive, though several factors may contribute. Genetic predisposition is suggested, as the condition can run in families, indicating a hereditary component. Certain medications, such as bupropion and antidepressants, have been linked to aquagenic pruritus, as have underlying medical conditions like polycythemia vera or autoimmune diseases.

Symptoms of aquagenic pruritus vary from person to person but commonly include severe itching, stinging, tingling, burning sensations, redness, and general discomfort upon water contact.

While there’s no cure for aquagenic pruritus, various treatments aim to alleviate symptoms. Oral antihistamines may help reduce itching and allergic reactions, while adjusting or discontinuing certain medications associated with the condition may offer relief. In severe cases, phototherapy, involving exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, can mitigate inflammation and itching.

Additional measures to manage aquagenic pruritus include using tap water instead of rainwater for bathing, applying emollients, opting for warm water, avoiding harsh sponges, and adding baking soda to bathwater, which can help raise pH levels and alleviate symptoms, according to studies.

KEY POINTS ABOUT TREMORS IN HANDS

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Tremors in the hands are often linked with older age, but many young individuals also grapple with health conditions that significantly disrupt their daily routines, from simple tasks like writing to more intricate activities. The involuntary shaking of hands, medically known as hand tremor, is a common occurrence.

Hand tremor refers to a neurological condition characterized by involuntary, rhythmic muscle contractions that result in shaking movements in one or both hands. While everyone experiences slight tremors during movement or maintaining a particular posture, they are usually subtle and go unnoticed. However, hand tremors become more apparent when holding the hands out straight or during periods of stress or anxiety. Although these movements are typically not life-threatening, they may indicate underlying health issues related to parts of the brain controlling movement.

Aside from affecting the hands, tremors can occur in other body parts such as the head, arms, legs, and voice box. The precise cause of hand tremors remains elusive, but studies suggest a connection with mild degeneration of the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for movement coordination. Additionally, genetic factors play a significant role in over half of the cases, with certain neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and dystonia also contributing to shaky hands. Furthermore, certain medications and alcohol misuse can exacerbate hand tremors.

Common symptoms of hand tremor include rhythmic shaking of the hands, difficulty with precision tasks like writing or buttoning a shirt, challenges in holding and controlling objects, and alterations in handwriting.

While there is no cure for most tremors, various treatment options are available depending on the underlying cause. These may include managing underlying conditions, making lifestyle changes such as avoiding stimulants and excess alcohol, practicing relaxation techniques for tremors induced by anxiety, adjusting medications, and engaging in physical therapy exercises to enhance muscle control and coordination.

NIGERIA VIRTUAL NUMBER: A SEAMLESS CONNECTION

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Having a Nigerian virtual number can greatly improve customer service and support for businesses. In today’s interconnected world, reliable communication solutions are essential. Whether you’re running a business, conducting research, or staying in touch with family and friends, a Nigeria virtual phone number, such as the one offered by HotTelecom, provides unparalleled convenience and flexibility.

Advantages of a Nigeria Virtual Phone Number

A Nigeria virtual phone number offers several benefits, making it an ideal choice for businesses and individuals alike:

1. Local Presence: Establish a local presence in Nigeria without the need for a physical office.
2. Cost-Effective Communication: Save on international calling rates and avoid expensive roaming charges.
3. Privacy Protection: Keep your personal number private while maintaining professional communication.

For businesses, having a Nigerian virtual number can significantly enhance customer service and support. By offering a local number, customers in Nigeria can easily reach you without incurring international call charges, improving customer satisfaction and boosting credibility within the local market.

Obtaining a Nigeria Phone Number

Getting a Nigeria phone number is a simple process:

1. Choose a Provider: Select a reliable service provider like HotTelecom that offers Nigeria virtual numbers.
2. Select Your Plan: Choose a plan that suits your communication needs and budget.
3. Register and Pay: Sign up on the provider’s website and complete the payment process.
4. Set Up Your Number: Follow the setup instructions to activate your Nigeria mobile number.
5. Start Using: Begin using your new number to make and receive calls.

For individuals, a Nigeria mobile number can be invaluable for staying connected with family and friends, whether living abroad or traveling. A virtual number allows seamless communication as if you were physically in Nigeria, without the high costs of international communication.

Why Choose HotTelecom for Your Nigeria Virtual Number?

HotTelecom is a top choice for Nigeria virtual numbers due to their wide range of options, easy setup process, competitive pricing, and excellent customer support.

Enhanced Flexibility and Security

A Nigeria virtual number offers enhanced flexibility, allowing you to manage communications from anywhere in the world, while ensuring secure and reliable communication, crucial for businesses handling sensitive information.

Ideal for Remote Work and Digital Nomads

For remote workers and digital nomads, a Nigeria virtual phone number provides unmatched convenience, allowing for professional presence and connectivity from any location.

In conclusion, whether establishing a local presence, enhancing business communications, or staying connected with loved ones, a Nigeria virtual number offers seamless, cost-effective, and flexible communication. HotTelecom is ready to assist in getting started with your Nigeria virtual number today.

OBASANJO: WE MUST RE-EVALUATE DEMOCRACY INHERITED FROM THE WEST

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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized the need for African leaders to reassess the form of democracy inherited from the West, advocating for a model that aligns with African heritage and prioritizes the welfare of the people. Speaking at the Summit on the State of Democracy in Africa at the Yar’adua Centre in Abuja on Wednesday, Obasanjo highlighted the importance of developing a democracy that genuinely serves all African people.

He called on African leaders to demonstrate a steadfast commitment to the welfare of their citizens, asserting that effective democracy in Nigeria and across Africa must be grounded in principles of good leadership, robust institutions, and the rule of law. Obasanjo described democracy as governance based on the consent of the people, with a clear mandate free from corruption and focused on the masses’ welfare.

The summit, organized by the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library and the Shehu Musa Yar’adua Foundation, with support from the Ford Foundation and Trust Africa, addressed the benefits, challenges, and threats to democracy in Africa.

GANDUJE WARNS APC WOMEN: DO NOT SELL REMI TINUBU WRAPPERS

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Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has instructed the party’s women leaders not to sell the wrappers provided to Nigerian women by the First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu. During the official presentation of these wrappers at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, Ganduje emphasized that the clothing materials should be distributed freely without any demands in return.

The First Lady, represented by the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, encouraged the women to manage the provided wrappers responsibly and assured them of more similar programs in the future.

Ganduje stated, “This program promotes financial inclusiveness for women and must be supported. The main issue is financial, although culture and religion play a role, but with time, these barriers will diminish, allowing for full women participation.

“This initiative aims to boost the financial stability of our women, especially those whose fabric businesses have suffered due to the current global economic challenges. By providing these wrappers, we are helping them increase their inventory, enabling them to sell and restock, thus supporting their businesses.

“I urge those managing this program to be honest, transparent, and nationalistic to ensure the wrappers reach the intended recipients. Do not expect anything in return, including transport fares; distribute them for free.”

MINORITY WHIP WALKS OUT AS LAWMAKERS REMOVE FIVE KANO EMIRS

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The move by the Kano State House of Assembly to dismiss five emirs has been opposed by opposition members, led by Minority Whip Ayuba Labaran (Kabo-APC). In response to this decision, Labaran staged a walkout from the chamber in Kano on Thursday.

Speaking to Vanguard, Labaran described the move as driven by “selfish interest.” He emphasized that the previous administration had established the Emirates to promote unity and development.

Earlier, the Kano State House of Assembly repealed the Kano Emirates Council Law 2019, which had created the Bichi, Gaya, Karaye, and Rano Emirates from the former Kano Emirate. This repeal occurred during a special plenary session presided over by Speaker Jibril Falgore, who invoked Order seven Rule 3 (A) and directed the Clerk, Alhaji Bashir Diso, to carry out the third reading of the bill to repeal the law.

Deputy Speaker Muhammad Butu-Butu explained that repealing the law would restore the lost glory of Kano, arguing that dividing the Kano Emirate into five damaged its capacity and dignity. Majority Leader Lawan Hussaini added that the Emirate Council, a custodian of Kano’s culture, was distorted by the creation of additional Emirates. He stated that once the law is amended, all five Emirate Councils would be abolished, with the Commissioner for Local Government overseeing their activities.

The repeal is considered timely, and the decision will be communicated to Governor Abba Yusuf for his assent.

EIGHT WELL-KNOWN NIGERIAN SINGERS WHO HAVE STARRED IN NOLLYWOOD MOVIES

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Over the years, numerous Nigerian musicians have ventured into Nollywood, taking on various roles and giving their fans something new to discuss.

1. **Tiwa Savage**: The renowned singer and songwriter, Tiwa Savage, has appeared in several films. She made her acting debut in the MTV series “Shuga” and appeared in “Jenifa’s Diary.” In February 2023, Savage announced her collaboration with Meji Alabi in co-producing the film “Water and Garri,” inspired by her second extended play. Set in Cape Coast, Ghana, the film featured Mike Afolarin, Andrew Bunting, and Jemima Osunde, with Savage also performing the original soundtrack and serving as executive producer. The story follows Aisha, a U.S.-based fashion designer returning home to confront past guilt.

2. **Skales**: Afrobeat singer Skales, born Raoul John Njeng-Njeng, recently joined the film industry. He made his acting debut in the upcoming thriller “Seeking Justice,” directed by JJC Skillz, featuring Gabriel Afolayan, Funky Mallam, and others. The film promises suspense and intrigue, with further details yet to be released.

3. **Falz**: Folarin Falana, widely known as Falz, is a rapper, songwriter, and actor. He gained recognition with his comedic rapping and acting skills, playing Segun in “Jenifa’s Diary.” Falz won the African Magic Viewers Choice Award for Best Actor in a Comedy Movie or Series in 2016 and Best Supporting Actor in 2018 for “New Money.” He has appeared in several films, including “10 Days in Sun City,” “Brotherhood,” “Merry Men,” and “Chief Daddy.”

4. **Simi**: In 2019, Simisola Bolatito Kosoko Ogunleye, known as Simi, made her acting debut in Kunle Afolayan’s film “Mokalik,” playing an intriguing role. The film follows 11-year-old Ponmile, who spends a day as an apprentice at a mechanic workshop, facing a crucial decision about his future.

5. **Chike**: R&B singer Chike Ezekpeazu Osebuka, known as Chike, gained fame from “Project Fame West Africa” and “The Voice Nigeria.” He ventured into acting with his debut as Mayoma Badmus in the telenovela “Battleground” and also appeared in “Gang of Lagos” as Ify.

6. **Reminisce**: Nigerian rapper Remilekun Khalid Safaru, known as Reminisce, made his acting debut in the 2018 film “King of Boys,” directed by Kemi Adetiba. He played the villain Makanaki, a Nigerian mobster, a role well-received by audiences and critics.

7. **Waje**: Aituaje Iruobe, known as Waje, appeared in the drama series “She Must Be Obeyed,” portraying Xcite. Directed by Akindele, the series explores the hidden challenges within the music industry, including bullying, exploitative contracts, power struggles, and rivalries.

8. **Yemi Alade**: Yemi Eberechi Alade, known as Yemi Alade, debuted as an actress in the 2020 film “Omo Ghetto: The Saga,” directed by JJC Skillz and Akindele. She played Mogambe, the head of a drug trafficking gang. The film tells the story of twin sisters reunited by dramatic events and features an ensemble cast including Chioma Akpotha, Eniola Badmus, and Mercy Aigbe.

BLESSING CEO REVEALS STUNNING PHOTOS TO CELEBRATE HER 35TH BIRTHDAY

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Controversial relationship therapist Blessing Nkiruka Okoro, also known as Blessing CEO, celebrated her 35th birthday on May 23. To mark the occasion, she delighted her fans by posting stunning photos on her Instagram page. In the photos, she wore a long mesh dress adorned with feathers.

Sharing the photos, she captioned it;

”35th floor .

1 man mopol

Happy birthday Blessing ceo..”

Blessing Okoro

See Video Below;

ACTRESS UCHE OGBODO SHARES PASSPORT BIODATA PHOTO TO VERIFY HER AGE OF 38

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Uche Ogbodo, a Nollywood actress, recently took steps to confirm her age to critics after facing off with an Instagram user who challenged her assertion that she is 38 years old. She went the extra mile by sharing a photo of her passport biodata to substantiate her claim. This morning, she reiterated her age by sharing her biodata, emphasizing that her mother is not even sixty years old yet.

See below;

Biodata

A MAN AND A WOMAN CAN NEVER BE SIMPLY FRIENDS, SAYS PASTOR TUNDE AYENI (VIDEO)

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The head preacher of Graceville Christian Center in Abuja, Pastor Tunde Ayeni, has issued a cautionary message to members of his congregation. In a sermon that has since gone viral, Ayeni warned that genuine platonic friendships between men and women are virtually impossible without the emergence of romantic or sexual feelings.

Various reactions to Ayeni’s sermon have surfaced online. One commenter, melanin_ruth, asserted that long-term friendships with the opposite sex can indeed remain purely platonic, citing personal experience. Another commenter, judahadeyemi, highlighted a key point from Ayeni’s sermon, emphasizing that maintaining friendship with an opposite-sex friend only becomes viable after processing any emotional hurt caused by their marital status.

However, napysure disagreed with Ayeni’s assertion, arguing that not everyone engages in promiscuous behavior, and individuals should refrain from using their own experiences as a standard for general behavior. Similarly, creativeoliver suggested that some women may overlook the complexities of male perspectives, leading to misunderstandings on this topic.

bubie_marie expressed frustration with the focus on personal opinions rather than the gospel itself, referencing biblical examples of platonic relationships between Jesus and women like Mary Magdalene. They criticized the notion that men are inherently sexually driven, urging for a broader understanding of male-female dynamics beyond mere sexual attraction.

Watch the video here

 

‘FORMATION ISN’T THAT CRUCIAL’ – SUPER EAGLES COACH FINIDI GEORGE MAINTAINS

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Super Eagles coach Finidi George has emphasized that his primary focus is on winning games rather than adhering to a specific formation. During his recent media tours across Nigeria, Finidi stressed that his coaching philosophy revolves around his players’ ability to discern when to attack and when to defend.

Having been involved with the Super Eagles managerial setup for the past 23 months, Finidi’s familiarity with the team played a role in his appointment as the team’s permanent coach following Jose Peseiro’s departure.

During the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Super Eagles frequently utilized a defensive-minded 3-4-3 formation, which faced criticism despite leading the team to the tournament final, where they lost 2-1 to Ivory Coast.

Speaking in an interview with Brilla FM on Wednesday, May 22, Finidi George stated, “My philosophy is centered on winning. Formation is secondary because if players understand when to attack and when to defend, there shouldn’t be any issues.”

“We can adopt various formations such as 3-5-2 or 4-4-2, but as long as the players comprehend their roles in both attacking and defending, the team should function effectively. This is a fundamental aspect of football, and players must grasp these moments,” he added.

Football enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating how Finidi George will implement his preferred style of play as the Super Eagles face South Africa on June 7 and Benin Republic on June 10. These matches are crucial for the Eagles as they continue their quest for qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

NFF PRESIDENT ENDORSES PATRICE MOTSEPE FOR CAF PRESIDENCY

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The President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Gusau, has outlined reasons why the current President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, should seek re-election for a second term.

Patrice Motsepe has served as the CAF president for three years, and his tenure as the South African football administrator is set to conclude in 2025.

During the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, which was hailed as the best edition of the competition, reporters inquired whether Motsepe would stand for re-election. However, the 62-year-old Tshwane native did not provide a definitive response.

In an interview with Soccer Africa, Ibrahim Gusau elaborated on why Patrice Motsepe should be encouraged to contest for a second term. He commended the football administrator for the success of the 2023 AFCON and for attracting corporate organizations to African football.

“I want to emphasize that if given the opportunity, I would strongly encourage Motsepe to seek another term as CAF president because he has introduced many positive changes that were lacking in CAF, particularly in terms of trust,” Gusau stated.

“Currently, we are discussing how the corporate world can invest in African football, and we understand that corporations prefer to invest where there is trust and confidence that their funds will be utilized effectively,” he added.

Gusau highlighted the significant progress made by CAF under Motsepe’s leadership, citing the increase in viewership and profits during the recent AFCON tournaments.

“In the past three years, there has been noticeable improvement in CAF. During the last AFCON, we witnessed approximately two billion viewers. In 2021, shortly after Motsepe assumed office, CAF recorded a profit of $4 million from AFCON. However, after the recent AFCON, CAF generated a profit of $80 million, indicating effective leadership,” Gusau explained.

“We believe Motsepe deserves another opportunity, and we will actively support his re-election campaign,” he concluded.

FG ALLOCATED ₦628.61 BILLION TO ELECTRICITY SUBSIDY IN 2023 AMID INCREASING POWER EXPENSES

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In 2023, the Federal Government of Nigeria allocated a substantial ₦628.61 billion towards electricity subsidies as part of its efforts to stabilize the power sector and alleviate the economic burden on citizens. This significant financial commitment was revealed in the latest data released by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) on Wednesday.

Throughout the year, the quarterly subsidies surged from ₦36.02 billion in the first quarter to a staggering ₦252.76 billion in the fourth quarter, underscoring the government’s struggle to maintain stability in power distribution amidst economic fluctuations.

During this period, power distribution companies (Discos) witnessed an increase in revenue collection, totaling ₦1.08 trillion. Quarterly earnings consistently rose, with Discos generating ₦247.09 billion in Q1, ₦267.86 billion in Q2, ₦267.61 billion in Q3, and reaching a peak of ₦294.95 billion in Q4.

The rise in subsidies is primarily attributed to the non-implementation of cost-reflective tariffs, which necessitates the government to bridge the gap between the cost-reflective and allowed tariffs. This gap mainly concerns power generation costs paid by Discos to the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET), the principal power trader in the sector.

According to the NERC, the substantial subsidy in the fourth quarter was largely due to government policies such as exchange rate harmonization while maintaining consumer tariffs at December 2022 levels.

“This surge in subsidy obligation indicates that, in Q4 2023, Discos were only required to cover 45% of the total invoice received from NBET,” stated the NERC in its report.

Furthermore, the report highlights operational challenges encountered by Discos, including a decline in collection efficiency, which stood at 73.79% in Q4, down from 76.56% in Q3.

BDC OPERATORS REJECT CBN’S NEW LICENSING DIRECTIVE

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Bureau De Change (BDC) operators nationwide are strongly opposing the recent directive from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) that requires them to reapply for licenses under new and stricter guidelines. This directive, announced on Wednesday, has raised concerns among operators regarding its alignment with global standards.

The CBN states that this overhaul aims to improve the regulatory framework and ensure financial stability. However, BDC operators argue that the new requirements could hinder their operations and diverge from international norms.

Haruna Mustapha, Director of the Financial Policy and Regulation Department at the CBN, issued a circular outlining that BDCs will now be divided into Tier 1 and Tier 2, each with specific operational capacities and capital prerequisites. Tier 1 BDCs are mandated to maintain a capital base of N2 billion, while Tier 2 BDCs must hold N500 million.

Aminu Gwadebe, President of the Association of Bureau de Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON), expressed significant concerns about the increased capital requirements and the tight timeline for compliance. He stated, “The requirement is substantial and not in line with global norms… We need to proceed cautiously to avoid losing our expertise, capacity, and investments.”

Gwadebe also highlighted the risks of exacerbating issues like money laundering due to the stringent and rushed nature of these changes. He noted that the compliance deadline is unreasonably short compared to the leniency typically given to other sectors.

The CBN’s revised guidelines have also eliminated the mandatory caution deposit, reflecting some responsiveness to past feedback from industry stakeholders.

With the implementation date set for June 3, BDC operators are urging a reevaluation of the policy. They are calling on the CBN to consider introducing the new rules more gradually to prevent disruption to existing financial stability and better align with international standards.

MINISTER REPORTS MILITARY ELIMINATED 9,300 BANDITS AND INSURGENTS IN ONE YEAR

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On Thursday, the Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru, announced that the service chiefs have significantly increased their productivity, resulting in notable achievements over the past year.

Speaking at the Ministerial Sectorial Update in Abuja, Badaru highlighted that the collaboration among the service chiefs and sister agencies has led to the elimination of over 9,300 bandits and insurgents, with 7,000 arrests made in the last year.

He said, “The Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, and Chief of Air Staff are now working together more effectively than before. This collaboration has resulted in greater productivity and efficiency. Additionally, we have close cooperation with the National Security Adviser’s office, the police, NSCDC, and other security agencies.”

“This synergy has yielded significant progress over the past year. We have neutralized over 9,300 bandits and insurgents, arrested around 7,000, and rescued 4,641 kidnapped victims in just one year. We have also recovered 4,882 assorted weapons and 83,900 rounds of ammunition. Among those neutralized are over 20 bandit leaders who commanded large groups of insurgents and terrorists.”

Badaru also mentioned that 1,437 suspects have been arrested and 363 killed by the military in efforts to boost oil production in the country.

He noted that ongoing operations against oil theft have significantly reduced illegal refineries.

“In our efforts to improve crude oil production, we have arrested 1,437 suspects, neutralized 363, and freed 245 captives in the Niger Delta region. We have destroyed 3,051 dug pits, 1,276 boats, and 3,924 storage tanks. Most illegal refineries are now down, and many vessels have been arrested,” Badaru added.

NYESOM WIKE: WE WILL CONSTRUCT 10,000 HOUSES FOR THE UNDERPRIVILEGED

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has pledged to initiate the construction of 10,000 houses for the masses in his upcoming budget. He criticized the high accommodation costs in the territory, noting that some businessmen who previously received free land for mass housing projects are now selling properties at exorbitant prices.

Wike made this announcement in Abuja during the ongoing Ministerial Sectoral Update, marking the first anniversary of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

“In our next budget, we aim to build a Renewed Hope City. This will be for affordable housing, not for the wealthy. We will provide infrastructure, build, and allocate the houses to the poor. Our goal is to construct 10,000 houses for the underprivileged,” he stated.

The minister also urged the National Assembly to review the laws against vandalism in the FCT, arguing that the current minor fines are insufficient to deter criminal activities.

“For instance, streetlights in Abuja are often vandalized shortly after installation. Cables are cut, and when vandals are prosecuted, the law only imposes a N10,000 fine, which is not a significant deterrent. We have asked the National Assembly to amend and strengthen the law to discourage vandalism of our infrastructure,” he explained.

BANKY W OVERJOYED AFTER SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF 4TH SKIN CANCER SURGERY

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Nigerian singer and politician, Banky W, expressed his gratitude after successfully undergoing his fourth surgery for skin cancer. On May 23, 2034, he shared a video on Instagram showcasing moments from his post-surgery recovery, with his wife Adesua Etomi-Wellington supporting him throughout. In a heartfelt caption, he offered encouragement to others facing challenges, reassuring them that everything will eventually be alright.

“Final Score – Christ 4 – Cancer Tumors 0. Sometimes, your faith in God will not prevent the storms from coming… but it will carry you through them. Faith won’t always stop you from hurting, but it will help you heal, and it will help you deal,” he said.

“God never said the weapons wouldn’t form, He promised that they wouldn’t prosper. He never said the enemy wouldn’t come… He promised that when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of God would raise a standard against him,” he added.

He added, “I am sharing this testimony to encourage anyone facing a challenge. It might appear overwhelming, but remember that He who is within you is greater than anything you will encounter in this world.”

He expressed deep gratitude to his wife, family, pastors, loved ones, and the medical personnel who treated him. The singer particularly thanked his wife and the medical staff for their support.

“Grateful for my wife, family, friends, and Pastors for their love, prayers, and support. Thanking God for my health and trusting that this latest victory is final in Jesus’ name. Appreciating the gifted hands and minds of my doctors, Dr. Onyewu of the Center for Advanced Specialty Surgery, and Dr. Adenuga of Euracare and the teams that support them. We have the victory yet again. Now and forever, in Jesus’ name,” he said.

“Online Stir as Ayra Starr’s Bold Outfit Grabs Attention at Private Album Listening Party”

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Nigerian singer Ayra Starr’s choice of outfit for her private album listening party has generated a lot of attention online.

Attendees and fans reacted angrily as the 21-year-old singer turned heads in a daring blue outfit that attracted diverse reactions.

Although the concert was designed to showcase her latest musical offering, it seems the outfit of Ayra Starr has taken the attention as many were unable to ignore Ayra Starr’s bold fashion statement.

Ayra Star was photographed wearing a short dress with a revealing thigh cut, which caused a stir on social media and raised eyebrows.

Ayra starr’s revealing outfit at private album listening party stirs controversy online
Ayra Starr, Nigerian artist

Attendees’ reactions to Ayra Starr’s attire were divided; some praised her flair and confidence, while others expressed unease with the outfit

Netizens Reactions…

buzelpharmaceutical said; “God abeg help me to raise my daughters as queens, that’s my choice for them because the last i checked, 100 most powerful women in the world none of them is naked and that’s the class i want my female children to belong🙌🙌🙌🙌. Amen”

ego_oyiiboo said; “I have never seen a queen dress like this .

femi_awesome_ said; “Make she Kuku Dey wear only pant 😂make we Dey see everything Abi warrris this bayii
monal_ia said;”Awwwwwnnnnn it’s how she makes beautiful pieces out of 1yard for me.”

dadjemmy said; “Her fashion designer is making real money from 20min folding and stitching 😂😂, she does not need to press the machine sef, just needle n thread.”

oluwatoyinaled said; “@monal_ia Na real one yard.”

lucciestreats said; “@monal_ia tah!!!! E no reach one yard.”

chef_ivyjones1 said; “Take the clothes off sister… you don’t need it ..🙄.”

nene_george said; “You people need to leave her alone, y’all already knows that’s her stage identity 😩.”

jeffe_ry1177 said; “This used to be madness, buh this generation na fashion una call am 👏💔.”