S.J News• [May 31, 2013]

S.J News• [May 31, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ 53 Consultants: Federal Government to probe remittances to Federation Account by 21 banks hired by Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) & Nigeria Custom Service (NCS). Yobe: State of Emergency ongoing in Yobe state as Gov Ibrahim Gaidam (Yobe) reshuffles cabinet; Ministry of Education split into Ministry of Education & Ministry of Higher education. Aviation: Bristow Helicopters to spend $4.8m (about ₦758.4m) on training of pilots in 2013; 1st phase of training to hold @ Ilorin Aviation College, Kwara state -Capt Akin Oni (MD Bristow Helicopters). Arsenal: Cache of arms found in bunker of Mustapha Fawaz's (Lebanese; co-owner Amigo Supermarket & Wonderland Amusement Park) Kano residence. Performance: Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) reacts to FG's mid-term pass mark; No need for marking scheme to assess performance -ACN. Where Amaechi @?: Gov Jonah Jang (Plateau), 15 other state governors open abuja secretariat of Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF). Gubernatorial Tussle: Segun Oni (erstwhile Ekiti Gov) v Gov Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti); Supreme Court to deliver verdict 2day. Espionage: House of Representatives to probe alleged award of over $40m internet surveillance contract by Presidency to foreign company. Do it Right: House of Reps approves 14 years imprisonment, with no option of fine, for same sex marriage; Gay clubs & societies in Nigeria outlawed. Industrial Action: Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) declares indefinite strike over non-implementation of 27.5% Teachers’ Peculiar Allowance & ₦18,000 minimum wage. Orange Bank: Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) named 2013 African Bank of The Year by African Banker magazine.

S.J News• [May 30, 2013]

S.J News• [May 30, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ DBI: Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to complete construction of hostel accommodation @ Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), Abuja before end of 2013 -Federal Ministry of Communications. African Banker Awards: Sanusi Lamido Sanusi (Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria) awarded Central Bank Governor of the Year. Imo: Gov Rochas Okorocha (Imo) denies taking ₦100bn loan to finance capital projects in Imo state. Niger Delta: ex-militants in Delta state give Federal Government & Amnesty office 2 weeks ultimatum for payment of backlog of monthly allowances since 2010. SIM Cards: Unregistered Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards to be disconnected by June 30, 2013 -Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). Rail: Construction of Lagos-Ibadan standard gauge double rail track to commence soon -Idris Umar (Minister of Transport); Rehabilitation of railway line from Port Harcourt to Maiduguri to be completed in 2013. 2015 Elections: Presidential campaign posters of Gov Sule Lamido (Jigawa; President) & Gov Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers; Vice) flood streets of Abuja.

S.J News• [May 29, 2013]

S.J News• [May 29, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Cement: Federal Government saved ₦300bn through production of cement in Nigeria; About 2 million jobs created -Olusegun Aganga (Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment). Defection: Femi Fani-Kayode (erstwhile Minister of Aviation) dumps Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for All Progressives Congress (APC) due to composition of APC membership. Abduction: Wife & daughter of Bode Rhodes-Vivour (Supreme Court Justice) released after 17 days in kidnapper's den; Kildnapped along Ore-Benin expressway. Fuji: 9-man gang attacks fuji artite, Wasiu Alabi (aka Pasuma), in Ahmadiyya, Lagos-Abeokuta expressway on Monday; Range Rover SUV snatched. Pension Management: N2.94tn being managed by rookies; No direct benefit to the nation’s economy due to poor management -Sen David Mark (Senate President). Energy: World Bank, International Finance Corporation (IFC) to invest $1bn (₦159 bn); Gas supply ($800m) & Independent Power Plants valued ($200m) -Marie Francois Marie-Nelly (World Bank Country Director, Nigeria).

S.J News• [May 28, 2013]

S.J News• [May 28, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Rivers: State civil servants commence 2-day warning strike; Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) & Trade Union Congress (TUC) seek resumption of workers @ Obio/ Akpor LGA secretariat. Children’s Day: Federal Govt to establish toll free helplines for children in distress -President Jonathan. African Economic Outlook: Nigeria & South Africa accounted for 95% of Africa's investment in 2012 with $20.15bn (₦3.204tn) -African Development Bank (AfDB). Power: National Council on Privatisation (NCP) names emergent bidders for Afam Generation Company & Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company; Commercial bidding process to follow. PDP: National Working Committee (NWC) constitutes 11-man committee to probe Gov Rotimi Amaechi's (Rivers) role in dissolution of Obio/Akpor Local Government Council; Committee headed by Joe Gadzama (SAN). Kidnap: Mrs Anne Ziwariote (60yrs; wife of retired Permanent Secretary) abducted by unknown gunmen in Yenagoa, Bayelsa state. World Largest: Nigeria to construct $1.2bn fertilizer plant (Gas-to-Urea) with a capacity for 1.4 million metric tonnes of Urea, Ammonia & NPK. Syria: European Union nations lift arms embargo against Syrian rebels -William Hague (Britain's Foreign Secretary).

S.J News• [May 27, 2013]

S.J News• [May 27, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Green Money: Federal Government to export $10m worth fresh vegetables in 2013 -Mike Kanu (Deputy Director, Horticulture, Federal Ministry of Agriculture). Rivers State: PDP National Working Committee suspends Executive Governor of River State, Rotimi Amaechi, as member of PDP for refusal to rescind dissolution of elected Executive Council of Obiokpor LG. May 29th: Federal Government cancels Democracy day celebrations again; No parade @ Eagle square, Abuja; Mini-parade to hold @ Presidential Villa, Aso-Rock, Abuja. Ogun Gov: Ogun State Local Government Legislative Forum (OSLGFL): 236 legislators from 20 Local Govt endorse Gov Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun) for 2nd term. Insomnious Money: Lagos, Rivers, Anambra, Abia, Kano, Ogun & Federal Capital Territory (FCT) control about 90% of cash transactions in Nigeria -Tunde Lemo (CBN Deputy Governor, Operations). NEMA: ₦2.6tn lost to 2012 flooding in Nigeria; 7 million persons affected & displaced 2.3 million -Muhammed Sani Sidi (Director General, National Emergency Management Agency). Power: Construction of 700MW Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plant to commence soon; To be completed in 2018; To cost₦163bn.

S.J News• [May 26, 2013]

S.J News• [May 26, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ RBDA: National Assembly opposes privatisation plans for River Basin Development Authorities of Nigeria; Law establishing RBDA to be reviewed before privatisation process begins -Senate Committee on Water Resources. Oil & Gas: $3bn (N474bn) to be made by FG from deep water projects; About 200,000 jobs to be created annually -Stefan Vas de Wael (Commercial Manager, Shell). NGF: Presidency played no role Nigerian Governors' Forum Election & had no preferred candidate -Reuben Abati (SA to President on Media & Publicity); Gov Rotimi Amaechi's (Rivers) remains Chairman. Kidnap: Family of Bode Rhodes-Vivour (Supreme Court justice) debunks release of abducted wife, daughter & chauffeur of Justice; Kidnapped May 10 in Edo State; ₦200m ransom demanded. Maritime: Navy confiscates over 40 vessels used for theft of crude oil in Niger Delta region, as mandate by President Jonathan. NGF Election Crisis: Self-proclaimed Chairman of Nigerian Governors' Forum, Gov Jonah Jang (Plateau) holds inaugural meeting as NGF Chairman.

S.J News• [May 25, 2013]

S.J News• [May 25, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Land Reform: 97% of landed properties in Nigeria have no registered owners; Legitimate land owners to obtain certificate of occupancy -Presidential Committee on Land Reform & Land Administration. Terrorism Charges: Court of Appeal, Abuja fixes October 2 for Sen Mohammed Ali Ndume's appeal vis-à-vis alleged links with Boko Haram sect. Yobe: State Executive Council approved ₦1.9bn as compensation for Boko Haram victims; Procures 6,000 metric tons of fertilisers for farmers. WILAT: Ministry of Transport to support Women in Logistics and Transport (Non Governmental Organisation) -Idris Umar (Minister of Transport). UN: African Union endorses Nigeria for non-permanent seat in United Nations Security Council -Olugbenga Ashiru (Minister of Foreign Affairs). Against All Odds: Gov Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers) re-elected as Chairman of Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) with 19 votes; Gov Jonah Jang (Plateau) with 16 votes; Gov AbdulAziz Yari (Zamfara) elected as Deputy. Tertiary Education: President Jonathan approves upgrade of Federal & State owned universities -VP Namadi Sambo.

S.J News• [May 24, 2013]

S.J News• [May 24, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ NITEL: Senate halts Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) plan to liquidate Nigeria Telecommunication; Should be concessioned or managed under Public Private Partnership (PPP). KWSIEC: Gov Abdulfattah Ahmed (Kwara) swears in Uthman Ajidagba (Chairman), 4 members of Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission. Abuse of Office: Ebonyi State House of Assembly recalls suspended fmr Deputy Speaker, Valentine Okike (Onicha West constituency). May 29: Federal Govt declares Wednesday, May 29, as Public Holiday for celebration of 2013 Democracy Day -Abba Moro (Ministry of Interior). Victor Umeh: Court of Appeal, Enugu adjourns indefinitely appeal pending before it over All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) leadership. Judiciary: Gov Jonah Jang (Plateau) appoints 3 judges, Arum Ashoms, Ishaya Kunda & Samson Gyang, to replace judges sacked on recommendation of National Judicial Council. Border: FG needs about $244m for installation of electronic surveillance round nation’s borders; 1,497 illegal entry points exists in Nigeria; 30 illegal guard companies discovered -Abba Moro (Minister of Internal Affairs).

S.J News• [May 23, 2013]

S.J News• [May 23, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Aviation: Federal Executive Council (FEC) approves revised National Policy on Civil Aviation for Nigeria. AKUTECH Protest: Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly summons Prof Sunday Peters (Vice-Chancellor) & Chairman of Governing Council of Akwa Ibom State University of Technology. Delta: State Govt to construct 2 flyover bridges in Asaba & Warri to curb traffic -Chike Ogeah (Commissioner of Information). Police: Suspected killers of Chinwike Asadu (fmr Kwara Commissioner of Police) arrested; Murdered 3 months ago @ his Enugu state residence -Muhammed Abubakar (Inspector General). Electricity: FG to boost power generation of 4,500MW to 10,000MW by December, 2013; PHCN privatisation process completed -Zainab Kuchi (Minister of State for Power). Forbes List: Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Minister of Finance) ranks 83rd in Forbes' World Most Powerful Women. Sugar: Aliyu Dangote (President, Dangote Group of Company) to build ₦180bn Sugar factory in Sokoto state in 4 years; Capacity of 1 million tonnes of sugar per annum; To generate 150,000 jobs. Piracy: Federal High Court, Lagos convicts & sentences man to 3 months imprisionment over sale of pirated copies of The Accidental Public Servant (Nasir el-Rufai’s book). Oyo: Gov Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo) approves appointment of 6 new judges into state judiciary sequel to National Judicial Council's (NJC) recommendation; Judges in state judiciary now 22.

S.J News• [May 22, 2013]

S.J News• [May 22, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Interest Rate: CBN's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) retains Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) @ 12 % with a corridor of +/-200 basis points; Cash Reserve Requirement (CRR) @ 12%; Liquidity Ratio (LR) @ 30%. Northeast: National Assembly approves State of Emergency declared by President Jonathan in Adamawa, Borno & Yobe states. Plagiarism: Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) dismisses female associate professor & assistant lecturer for alleged plagiarism; 2 Lecturers demoted from Lecturer 1 to 2. Arik Air: 2 Arik crew members arrested in Heathrow Airport, London, UK over alleged drug trafficking; Investigtion ongoing -NDLEA. Libel: Mohammed Bello Adoke (Attorney General/Minister of Justice) sues Dino Melye (fmr House of Reps member) for libel @ High Court, FCT; Demands ₦10.2bn & ₦200m for cost of litigation. NGF: Nigeria Governors Forum to elect new Chairman on Friday; Gov Rotimi Amaechi (Incumbent; Rivers), Gov Ibrahim Shema (Katsina) or Gov Isa Yuguda (Bauchi) to weigh heaviest on beam balance. French Open: Andy Murray (world #2) withdraws from Tennis tournament due to back injury. Gaming: Microsoft unveils voice & gesture-controlled Xbox One; To be sold later in 2013; Can be used for Games, Live TV (channel selection by voice), Movies, Music.

S.J News• [May 21, 2013]

S.J News• [May 21, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ UN High Level Panel on Illicit Financial Flows: Africa must check huge funds illegally taken out of continent; Able to solve infrastructural & other problems -President Jonathan. Emergency Rule: FG rules out supplementary budget for funding military operations in Adamawa, Borno & Yobe state -Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Minister of Finance). Building: Gov Babatunde Fashola (Lagos) inaugurates Tribunal of Inquiry into Collapsed Buildings in Lagos state; Appeals to residents to report unsafe buildings. Aero Money Transfer: Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) nabs 5 persons @ Muritala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos in attempt to launder $2.7m (₦432m). 4th Mainland Bridge: Preliminary work on 26km bridge commenced; To link Ikorodu to Eti-Osa LG, Lagos state -Dr Obafemi Hamzat (Commissioner for Works & Infrastructure). NSIA: Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) to kick off activities by June, 2013; To manage $1bn Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) -Uche Orji (Fund’s MD/CEO).

S.J News• [May 20, 2013]

S.J News• [May 20, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Eradicate Extreme Poverty & Hunger (MDG #1): Lagos State Govt trains 26,049 youths on skill acquisition programmes for attainment of Millennium Development Goal -Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (Deputy Gov, Lagos). State of Emergency (Adamawa, Borno, Yobe): President Jonathan thanks Nigerians for support; Armed Forces' effort already yielding positive results -Dr Doyin Okupe (SSA to President on Public Affairs). Southeast: Federal Govt earmarks ₦158bn for southeast projects; ₦30bn for 2nd Niger Bridge, ₦60bn for ecological & erosion problems, ₦68bn for roads, other infrastructural projects. World Bank Loan: Federal Govt to borrow $330m from World Bank for road development projects across Nigeria. Cross River: China to establish truck manufacturing plant within Calabar Free Trade Zone. Financial Year End Result: Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria now International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) compliant -Kingsley Moghalu (Deputy Governor, Financial Systems Stability, CBN). Social Media: Yahoo to acquire Tumblr (New York-based blogging service) for $1.1bn (£725m) -Marissa Mayer (Yahoo CEO); David Karp (Founder of Tumblr; 26-year-old) to remain in role.

S.J News• [May 19, 2013]

S.J News• [May 19, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Aviation: President Jonathan visits Enugu State for Commissioning Of remodelled Akanu Ibiam airport in Enugu state. Ahoada-East: Port Harcourt High Court sentences 4 councillors in Rivers state to 3 months in jail with hard labour & without an option of fine for contempt of court. Adamawa, Borno & Yobe: Emergency rule declared not conflicting with National Committee on Dialogue & Peaceful Resolution of Conflicts in Northern Nigeria -Dr Reuben Abati (SA to president on Media & Publicity). Mega Sponsor: I gave Olusegun Obasanjo (fmr President) ₦100m to run his 1999 campaign & PDP another ₦100m -Orji Uzor Kalu (fmr Abia Gov). South-East: No other zone equals South-East zone vis-à-vis support for me & my administration -President Jonathan. Power: Senate summons Prof Chinedu Nebo (Minister of Power), Hajia Zainab Kuchi (Minister of State for Power) & Godknows Igali (Perm Sec); To appear before Power Committee on Tuesday.

S.J News• [May 18, 2013]

S.J News• [May 18, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Ogun: State Govt supplie, installs 2 sets of rice processing equipment @ Moloko-Asipa & Ago-Iwoye to boost production of rice in Ogun state -Mrs Ronke Sokefun (Commissioner for Agriculture). Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET): About ₦570bn lost to 2013 flood -Prof Anthony Anuforom (Director General, NIMET). My Pikin Syrup: Federal High Court, Lagos sentences 2 employees of Barewa Pharmaceutical Ltd (manufacturer of My Pikin) to 7 years imprisonment; Company wound up, assets forfeited to FG. Tax: Over 350,000 companies evade tax in Nigeria; FG to introduce e-payment for collection of tax -Dr Yerima Ngama (Minister of State for Finance). Power: Niger Delta Power Holding Company to add 4,000MW of electricity to national grid by December, 2013 -James Olotu (MD, NDHC). FAAC: Federation Accounts Allocation Committee shares ₦721.51bn among 3 tiers of Govt for April; ₦89.738bn transferred to Excess Crude Account; ECA now @ $5.876bn -Dr Yerima Ngama (Minister of State for Finance).

S.J News• [May 17, 2013]

S.J News• [May 17, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ SCF: Shell declares force majeure on gas supply to Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) due to leak along Eastern Gas Gathering System (EGGS-1). PTDF: Executive Secretary of Petroleum Technology Development Trust Fund now Dr Oluwole Oluleye. Debt Profile: Nigeria's debt profile stood at ₦8.7 tn as @ December 2011; Inflation rose to 9.1% in April -National Economic Council (NEC). Owanbe: Lagos residents spend over ₦1bn on parties & entertainment monthly -Ademorin Kuye (Commissioner for Local Government & Chieftaincy Affairs). NSC: Gbenga Elegbeyele appointed as Director-General of National Sports Commission. ₦60bn Agric Loans: Bank of Agriculture (BoA) to release ₦15bn credit facility to Nigerian farmers for expansion of operations; ₦45bn disbursed thus far within the last decade -Dr Mohammed Santuraki (MD/CEO, BoA). Kidnap: 84-year-old mother of Remi Olatubora (fmr Commissioner for Education, Ondo) released on Thursday; Kidnapped @ her Ondo residence. BPE: President Jonathan approves appointment of Benjamin Ezra Dikki as new Director-General of Bureau of Public Enterprises. Vice Chancellor: Gov Umaru Al-Makura (Nasarawa) suspends Prof Shamsudeen Amali (VC, Keffi State University); Prof Aminu Mukailu as interim VC; Management on 6-month compulsory leave. Presidential Election: Federal Govt disburses ₦5.747bn to Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Niger, Zamfara due to 2011 post-election violence. Curtain Closed; Boots Hung: David Beckham (38yrs; 115 caps for England) to retire from football @ end of season; Signed 5-month deal with Paris St-Germain (PSG) in January.

S.J News• [May 16, 2013]

S.J News• [May 16, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ SUBEB: Chief Magistrates’ Court, Bauchi orders Abdullahi Dabo (Chairman, Bauchi State Universal Basic Education Board) to appear before court on June 4, 2013. Northeast: Presidential Committee on Dialogue & Peaceful Resolution of Security Challenges in the North not hampered by State of Emergency -Dr Reuben Abati (SA to President on Media & Publicity). Kidnap: Abductors of wife, daughter & chauffeur of Bode Rhodes-Vivour (Supreme Court Justice) demand ₦300m ransom for release of family. Ogun: 66 illegal healthcare centres shut down in Ogun state; Fake drugs worth ₦1.5m destroyed -Dr Olaokun Soyinka (Commissioner for Health). Quasi State of Emergency: Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) urges National Assembly to reject declaration of State of Emergency in Borno, Yobe & Adamawa states. SEC-APC: Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) inaugurates Administrative Proceedings Committee (APC) for dispute resolution in the capital market.

S.J News• [May 15, 2013]

S.J News• [May 15, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Aviation Scrutiny: Joint House Committee on Justice/Aviation demands detailed list of private jets operating in Nigeria from Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). Purloin of Oyo Treasury: Rasheed Ladoja (fmr Oyo Gov) files ₦5bn libel suit against African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc (publishers of Tribune). Northeast: President Jonathan addresses nation; Declares State of Emergency in Adamawa, Borno & Yobe states. Kidnap: Abductors of Mrs Olufunke Olatubora's (fmr Commissioner for Education, Ondo) octogenarian mother demand ₦50m ransom; Kidnapped @ her residence in Ondo state. Gulf of Guinea: Pirates release 5 Polish & Russian crew members; Abducted from cargo ship off the coast of Nigeria in April, 2013. Flood: Senate Committee on Environment & Ecology summons Mrs Hadiza Mailafia (Minister of Environment) vis-à-vis plans to forestall flooding. White Substance: Federal High Court, Lagos sentences Sunny Ade’s erstwhile guitarist (62-year-old) to 3 years imprisonment for trafficking 1.575kg of cocaine. Microsoft Cheddar: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation earmarks $650,000 for FG's Cassava Transformation Action; $250,000 to be used for training master bakers for bread production.

S.J News• [May 14, 2013]

S.J News• [May 14, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Fund Transfer: Daily electronic transactions hit ₦80bn due to introduction of cashless policy -Tunde Lemo (CBN Deputy Gov, Operations). Auditor-General’s Query: House of Representative's Public Account Committee (PAC) orders NNPC to refund ₦236bn to coffers of Federal Govt within 1 month. Kidnap: Octogenarian mother of Mrs Remi Olatubora (fmr Commissioner of Education, Ondo) abducted by unknown gunmen in Ondo state. ex-Gov: Police parades Adebayo Akala's (fmr Oyo Gov) Beninois cleaner over burglary of former's apartment. Arsenal (13-by-20ft container): Federal High Court, Lagos sentences Iranian & Nigerian accomplice to 17 years imprisonment each for illegal importation of firearms into Nigeria in 2010. Electricity: Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) begins new metering scheme; Mandates Distribution companies (DISCOs) to implement Credited Advance Payment for Metering Implementation (CAPMI). Bayelsa CP: Tonye Ebitibituwa (fmr CP, Enugu; Ondo Indigene) deployed to take charge as Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa state; Replaces retired CP, Kingsley Omire. Oil Revenue: ₦179.5bn ($1.136bn) earned by Federal Govt from non-oil sector in 1st quarter of 2013 -Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Red Farewell; Blue Sack: Roberto Mancini (48yrs) sacked as Manchester City manager; Assistant Brian Kidd to take charge for remaining games in the season.

S.J News• [May 13, 2013]

S.J News• [May 13, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Troubled States: ACN, CPC warns Federal Govt not to declare Emergency Rule in Borno, Nasarawa & Yobe states. Osun Free Trade Zone: High Court, Osogbo strikes out Ayomide Seriki-Farounbi's (fmr Commissioner for Commerce) application to quash charges vis-à-vis $1m contract. Cargo en route Monrovia, South Africa & China: Nigeria Customs Service nabs 2 Chinese, 1 Malian @ MMIA, Lagos in attempt to smuggle over 21kg of processed ivory & elephant tusks. Fade to White: CBN's planned withdrawal of ₦5, ₦10, ₦20 & ₦50 polymer notes for switch to paper won’t attract extra cost -Central Bank of Nigeria. Sports: Presidential & vice elections for sports federation scheduled for 2moro @ National Stadium, Abuja by 10am -National Sports Federation Electoral Committee. Subsidy: Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) urges Federal Govt to ignore International Monetary Fund's (IMF) advice on removal of subsidy.

S.J News• [May 12, 2013]

S.J News• [May 12, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ SURE-P: Over ₦2.7bn spent by Federal Road Maintenance Agency thus far for rehabilitation of federal roads nationwide through Subsidy Reinvestment & Empowerment Programme funds -FERMA. Kidnap: Wife, daughter & chauffeur of Justice Bode Rhodes Vivour (Supreme Court Justice) abducted on Friday in Edo state; ₦30m ransom paid for release of son in September 3, 2012. CAN President: Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) re-elects Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor for 2nd term. GSK: Glaxosmithkline commits £15m towards child mortality in Nigeria -Sir Andrew Witty (Chief Executive, Glaxosmithkline). NCC: Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) sets June 30, 2013 deadline for registration of Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards -Tony Ojobo (Director of Public Affairs, NCC). Brazil: Jury absolves 4 bodyguards vis-à-vis murder of Paulo Cesar Farias (Brazilian businessman; 50yrs) & Suzana Marcolino (girlfriend; 28yrs) on June 23,1996.

S.J News• [May 11, 2013]

S.J News• [May 11, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Eurobond: Federal Executive Council (FEC) approves appointment of Citi Bank & Deutsche Bank for management of planned $1bn Eurobond -Debt Management Office (DMO). Fuel Subsidy: Akintola Williams Deloitte (accounting firm) & Petroleum Product Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) responsible for subsidy overpayment to oil marketers -EFCC. Ubah v Obi: Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah (CEO, Capital Oil & Gas) declares interest to contest 2013 Anambra state gubernatorial election. Senate: State-of-the-Nation Address bill passed; President compelled to address nation before joint session of National Assembly; To be effective from July, 2013. Fuel Subsidy Probe: Application to quash charges dismissed; Farouk Lawan (Chairman, ad hoc committee) & Boniface Emenalo (Committee Secretary) must stand trial vis-à-vis alleged $620,000 bribe -High Court, Abuja. 2014 World Cup, Brazil: Emmanuel Emenike (Super Eagles; Spartak Moscow) pledges $50,000 (₦8m) to Super Eagles for qualification; Malawi, Kenya & Namibia in qualifying group; Emenike's knee injury keeps him out of qualifiers. Power: Osun state Govt spent ₦3bn for electricity to rural communities in the last 2 years -Kunle Ige (SA to Gov on Water Resources & Community Affairs). IGR: Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in Lagos state averages @ ₦20bn monthly -Ben Akabueze (Commissioner for Economic Planning & Budget).

S.J News• [May 10, 2013]

S.J News• [May 10, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ President & Vice: Posters of Gov Ibrahim Shema (Katsina) & Gov Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom) for 2015 election flood streets of Abuja. Amnesty: 25-member Presidential Committee on Dialogue & Peaceful Resolution in the North meets Kabiru Sokoto, 39 others behind closed doors@ Kuje Minimum Security prison. APGA: INEC recognises only Victor Umeh-led faction of All Progressives Grand Alliance. NBS: Rate of unemployment in Nigeria @ 23.9% -Dr Yemi Kale (Statistician-General, National Bureau of Statistics). Fake Drugs: Most fake, substandard & counterfeit drugs sold in open drug market in Nigeria are smuggled from China -Dr Paul Orhii (DG, NAFDAC). NCP: National Council on Privatisation approves commercialisation of Federal Housing Authority -Idris Umar (Minister of Transport). Crude Oil Theft: Federal High Court remands 14 NNPC casual workers in Kuje prison; Accused of vandalising pipes for sale of crude oil to foreigners. NFVCB to NBC: President Jonathan appoints Emeka Mba (fmr DG, National Film & Video Censor Board) as Director-General of National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). Telecoms: Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) fines Airtel, Etisalat, Globacom & MTN ₦53.8m for pre-registration of SIM cards. G7 Group of Industrialised Nations: G7 (US, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan & UK) Finance ministers to begin 2-day meeting on bank reforms on Friday (2day).

S.J News• [May 9, 2013]

S.J News• [May 9, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Electricity: Nigeria to reap annual investment of $10bn in power sector in the next 10 years, following privatisation & concessioning of Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) -President Jonathan. Ogun: State Govt lifts embargo on approval & construction of petrol filling stations in Ogun state -Ministry of Physical Planning. EFCC vs ex-Gov: Erstwhile Bayelsa governor, Timipre Sylva, arrested @ his Maitama, Abuja home by EFCC after failure to honour commission's invitation. Ekiti: Prof Modupe Adelabu (63yrs) sworn in as Deputy Governor of Ekiti state following confirmation by State House of Assembly. PSC: President Jonathan appoints Mike Okiro (former Inspector General of Police) as next Chairman of Police Service Commission (PSC); To replace Parry Osayande; Awaits Senate confirmation. ICRC: Ken Nnamani (fmr Senate President) as Chairman, Governing Board of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission; Awaits Senate confirmation. Narcotics: NDLEA destroys 102.71kg of cannabis sativa (marijuana) in Edo state; Over 1bn worth; Largest single destruction of narcotics in the history of drug control -Ahmed Giade (Executive Director, NDLEA). Election: Federal Government spent ₦122.9bn (₦66.3bn recurrent; ₦56.6bn capital expenditure) on 2011 general elections; About ₦9bn saved from initial ₦131.4bn budgeted for elections -INEC. Manchester United: Sir Alex Ferguson (71yrs) to retire as manager @ end of season; 26 years in charge with over 30 trophies won.

S.J News• [May 8, 2013]

S.J News• [May 8, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Ekiti: State House of Assembly ratifies appointment of Prof Modupe Adelabu (Chairman, SUBEB) as new deputy governor of Ekiti state. Rivers Brouhaha: Federal High Court, Port Harcourt summons Mohammed Adoke (Attorney General) & Mohammed Abubakar (IG of Police) over sealing of Obio/Akpor LG secretariat in Rivers state. EFCC v Babalakin: High Court, Ikeja fixes June 5 to hear applications filed by Dr Wale Babalakin (Chairman, Bi-Courtney Services Ltd) & Alex Okoh (co-defendant); Loses bid to quash ₦4.7bn fraud charges. Oyo: State House of Assembly extends tenure of Caretaker Chairmen in 30 out of 33 Local Govt areas in Oyo state. Law+9: Magistrate court, Auchi remands State House of Assembly member, Rasaq Momoh (Etsako West Constituency 1), in prison over possession of firearm. PoS Terminals: Point of Sale terminals in Nigeria now 115,000 -Tunde Lemo (Deputy Gov, Operations, Central Bank of Nigeria).

S.J News• [May 7, 2013]

S.J News• [May 7, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ SEC: Securities & Exchange Commission postpones June 3, 2013 deadline for migration to e-dividend payment due to stakeholders' feedback. Alpha Jet: Nigerian Air Force (NAF) jet deployed to Mali crashes in Niger Republic; 2 pilots on board fighter jet died in crash -Defence Headquarters (DHQ). Spare Parts Market: State Govt to register traders @ Ladipo market, Mushin, Lagos state; Reopened on Monday after being shut since February 25, 2013. Kidnap: Elder statesman, Dr Shettima Ali Monguno (fmr Minister of Petroleum), released by abductors. Borno: United States Govt to probe Baga killings; Almost 200 lives claimed in crisis. Spend Big, Ride Solo: Stakeholders reject FG's private jet policy; Owners barred from carrying friends & associates; Presidency justifies policy in statement.

S.J News• [May 6, 2013]

S.J News• [May 6, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Aviation: Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) ups Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja toll by 50%; Effective from Monday (2day). Unpaid Levies: Nigerian Maritime Administration & Safety Agency (NIMASA) lifts blockade on Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) shipping activities 48hrs after. OBJ: Olusegun Obasanjo (erstwhile president) should be probed by EFCC for alleged mismanagement of natural resource funds -Osita Okechukwu (National Publicity Secretary, CNPP). NigeriaSat-2: Federal government to release images of Baga captured by earth observation satellite 2day. Power: FG approves $3.7bn for improvement of power transmission; Aims 20,000 Megawatt (MW) -VP Mohammed Namadi. Rice: Federal government bans Importation of rice through land borders; Must come through sea ports with duty paid on them -Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

S.J News• [May 5, 2013]

S.J News• [May 5, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Aso Rock: Gov Rabi'u Kwankwaso (Kano; PDP) denies presidential ambition through his Director of Press & Public Relations. Czech: FG/ Czech Republic partners for development of Technical & Vocational education in Nigeria -Ezenwo Nyesom Wike (Minister of State for Education). Ekiti: Gov Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti) nominates Modupe Adelabu (SUBEB Boss) as Deputy Governor following demise of Mrs Funmilayo Olayinka; Awaits House of Assembly confirmation. Fuselage: Rivers state government's private jet costs $45m (₦7.1bn), not $57 (₦9bn) -Mrs Ibim Semenitari (Commissioner for Information & Communications). 2016 Census: National Population Commission (NPC) approves Imo State University (IMSU), Owerri as centre for training officials. KWASU: State Govt to name Kwara State University, Malete after Dr Olusola Saraki; Sola Saraki University (SOSU) or Abubakar Sola Saraki University (ASSU). US/Nigeria: US military assistance to Nigeria not withdrawn; John Kerry (US Secretary of State) vowed that relations would be strengthened -Olugbenga Ashiru (Minister of Foreign Affairs). Banknotes: European Central Bank (ECB) launches new €5 bill in Bratislava, Slovakia.

S.J News• [May 4, 2013]

S.J News• [May 4, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ NIMASA v NLNG: Nigerian Maritime Administration Safety Agency stops Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Company from exporting gas from Bonny, Rivers state due to failure to pay levies. Kidnap: Unknown gunmen abduct elder statesman, Shettima Monguno (fmr Minister of Petroleum; 92yrs), in Maiduguri, Borno state; Seek release of terror suspects. Aviation: FG unveils new National Civil Aviation policy for regulation of aviation sector activities; imperative for safety & security purposes -Stella Adaeze Odua (Minister of Aviation). Kogi LG Elections: Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), All Nigerian People Party (ANPP) & Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) boycott Local Govt elections scheduled for 2day. EFCC ex-Gov: EFCC declares erstwhile Jigawa state governor, Saminu Turaki, wanted over alleged ₦36bn fraud; Federal High Court, Jigawa issues warrant against him. Benue Cabinet: Governor of Benue state, Gabriel Suswam, swears in 12 new commissioners. JAMB: 80,419 results for 2013 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) withheld; 40,692 cancelled -Prof Dibu Ojerinde (JAMB Registrar). Crown Glued to Head: Gov Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo) triumphs @ Election Petitions Tribunal; Petitions filed by ACN & Rotimi Akeredolu (ACN Candidate) and PDP & Olusola Oke (PDP Candidate) dismissed. Salary Arrears: Edo State Govt to pay 4 out of 6 months salaries to recalled teachers -Gov Adams Oshiomhole (Edo).

S.J News• [May 3, 2013]

S.J News• [May 3, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Agric: World Bank to commit $1bn for support of Nigeria’s agricultural sector in the next 5 years -Ms Marie-Francoise Marie- Nelly (Country Director). Osun: State Govt names airport (under construction) in Ido-Osun after MKO Abiola (acclaimed winner of June 12, 1993 presidential election) -Ajibola Basiru (Commissioner for Special Duties). Jail Term: United Kingdom court dismisses appeal filed by James Ibori (erstwhile Delta Gov); Appeal lacks merit -Judge; ex-Governor still behind bars. Kebbi: EFCC arraigns Yahaya Saidu Andarai (Director, Kebbi Ministry of Finance) & co before Lagos High Court, Ikeja for allegedly stealing ₦64m belonging to Coscharis Motors Ltd. May Day Gift: Gov Emmanuel Uduaghan (Delta) absorbs 1,072 casual workers into state workforce, as promised @ May Day rally -Paul Osahor (Director of Information). House of Reps (ad-hoc Committee on Fuel Subsidy): High Court, Abuja fixes May 10 to rule on an application filed by Farouk Lawal (Chairman) & Boniface Emenalo (Secretary). First Lady Tussle (Incumbent v Erstwhile): Disputed land belongs to Turai Yar’Adua, not Patience Jonathan; Revocation of Certificate of Occupancy by Bala Mohammed (Minister of FCT) illegal -Judge. FIRS: Federal High Court, Abuja awards over ₦200m against NICON Insurance & National Insurance Commission (NIC) in favour of Federal Inland Revenue Service.

S.J News• [May 2, 2013]

S.J News• [May 2, 2013]• http://sjnewss.blogspot.com/ Electricity: 10,000 Megawatts (MW) of electricity not realisable by December 2013, but 1st quarter of 2014 -Prof Chinedu Nebo (Minister of Power); Goal set by predecessors. Absence From Work: Gov Adams Oshiomhole (Edo) recalls 41 sacked teachers relieved of duties 7 months ago. Pension: Military pensioners give Federal Governmey May 6 deadline for payment of pension arrears to police & civilian -Benson Eromafuru (President, National Association of Military Pensioners). Power: Gov Seriake Dickson signs MoU with IPP Energy Ltd & GMB Leasing Partners to build 100MW gas turbine power station in Bayelsa state. Borno: 2,275 homes destroyed during April military raid in Baga, Borno state -Satellite Image; Army yet to comment. Joint Forces: I am ready to step down as presidential candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2015 if a formidable & better candidate emerges -Muhammadu Buhari. PHCN: FG approves ₦384bn as severance package for Power Holding Company of Nigeria staff; ₦45bn earmarked in 2013 budget; Privatisation proceeds to offset shortfall.